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QatarQ Executive’s Lekhwiya trounce Gulfstream on Al Sadd to win displaydis in Bahrain Sheikh Jassim Cup

FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 • 12 Rabia II 1437 • Volume 20 • Number 6683 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar ‘Pictionary’ to Emir meets President of Mexico reinforce Arabic language sought

published for elementary students and a strategic curricula developed Forum makes incorporating modern technology. recommendations H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson, QF, addressing the forum to develop Arabic on the first day had drawn attention teaching methods to the popularity of electronic linguis- tic jargons among Arab children and to address linguistic youth, which, she said has done dam- challenges faced by age to the Arabic language. She also called for production of Arab children electronic games and modern enter- tainment in the Arabic language. The forum proposed partnerships with more centres and institutions The Peninsula concerned with the Arabic language and enhancement of Arabic teach- ing standards and skills. It stressed the need for engaging Arab families Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto at the Emiri Diwan yesterday, in the presence of DOHA: The second Renaissance of and outlining their role in the trans- Deputy Emir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani, along with Nieto’s delegation. Talks dealt with relations between both countries Arabic Language Forum ended at fer of linguistic knowledge. and ways of enhancing them in all fields, including economy and investment. → See also page 2 Qatar National Convention Center Dr Ali Al Kubaisi, Director-Gen- (QNCC) yesterday with recommen- eral, WORAL, said: “The challenges dations to develop Arabic teaching facing the Arabic language oblige methods to address modern linguis- us all to analyse and study the cur- tic challenges faced by Arab children. rent linguistic climate to find the best Recommendations by an elite solutions. It is a logical step to start PM opens new Counter Cybercrime Centre HQ group of academics called for sup- with children, who will transfer this porting media production targeting knowledge to many more genera- children in the Arabic language and tions to come. QNA After the inauguration, the Pre- with modern security techniques, prosecution. It works with the Public creating a ‘Pictionary’ which rein- “On the final day of the event, a mier toured the branch and the centre. through which patrol personnel are Relations Department at the Minis- forces language through visual cues. committee of educational experts He was briefed by officials on the deployed in specific locations to secure try of Interior to increase community The two-day event was organised and linguistic professionals proposed work mechanism of the branch and a geographical area. awareness about the dangers of cyber- by World Organisation for Renais- solutions to support the upbringing DOHA: Prime Minister and Interior services it offers to facilitate investi- The centre is the most modern in crimes and how to avoid them. sance of Arabic Language (WORAL), of the Arab child, which I’m certain Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin gation by security patrols. the region in terms of applying state- Staff Major General Saad bin Jassim a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), will pave the road for a bright future, Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani opened The services include providing of-the-art techniques and equipment Al Khulaifi, Director-General, Pub- under the theme ‘Linguistic upbring- worthy of the Arabic language’s glori- the operations, control and security security patrols with data and intel- to deal with cybercrimes. It investi- lic Security, and directors of various ing of the Arab child - The reality and ous history and in line with its current monitoring branch and the new head- ligence to help them quickly capture gates and gathers evidence in cases departments of the ministry were also prospects for the future’. ambitions,” he added. quarters of the Counter Cybercrime criminals and prevent crimes. of cybercrimes. It also checks elec- present at the opening ceremony. The forum recommended that an Centre at the General Directorate of The branch is the liaison point for tronic devices and prepares technical updated basic Arabic vocabulary be → Continued on page 2 Criminal Investigation. security patrols which are equipped reports based on directives of public → Picture on page 2

Al Jazeera seeks Another foggy morning in Doha release of three OIC condemns attacks ‘abducted’ crew in Yemen’s Taiz on Saudi missions in The Peninsula Tehran and Mashhad

DOHA: Al Jazeera Media Network has called for the immediate release The Peninsula manifestations. Saudi Foreign Minis- of Al Jazeera Arabic news team ter Adel bin Ahmad Al Jubeir told the believed to have been kidnapped meeting that attacks on Saudi mis- in the city of Taiz in Yemen. sions came within the framework of Correspondent Hamdi Al Bokari DOHA: An extraordinary meeting of the aggressive policies of the gov- and his crew Abdulaziz Al Sabri and the foreign ministers of the Organi- ernment of Iran and its continued Moneer Al Sabai were last seen on sation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in interference in the internal affairs Monday night. Jeddah yesterday condemned attacks of the countries in the region. Dr Mostefa Souag, Acting on Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic missions He said Iran seeks to spread sedi- Director-General, Al Jazeera in Iran earlier this month. tion, unrest and chaos and incite Media Network said: “We call on In a statement, OIC said it “con- sectarian strife in the region. the immediate release of our col- demns the aggressions against the “This attack was part of ongoing leagues Hamdi Al Bokari, Abdulaziz missions of the Kingdom of Saudi Ara- attacks on the diplomatic missions Al Sabri and Moneer Al Sabai. Street lights remained switched on at 8.19am on Doha-Al Wakrah Road, as thick fog blanketed the city bia in Tehran and Mashhad” Such in Iran for 35 years. Tehran govern- “They were covering events in yesterday. The foggy morning the country has been experiencing over the past three days is expected “aggressions” contravened interna- ment did no exert any efforts to stop the besieged city of Taiz, reporting to continue today. Pic: Salim / The Peninsula tional law and the OIC Charter, which this tampering against the sanctity of on the human cost to the conflict. member state Iran rejected, the state- diplomatic missions. Iran only issued “Our colleagues were doing ment said, news agencies reported. some condemnatory statements while their job of reporting the story and It also denounced “Iran’s inter- the host government’s responsibility informing the world on what is tak- ference in the internal affairs of the is to take actions,” Saudi Press Agency ing place in Yemen. states in the region and other mem- SPA quoted Al Jubeir as saying. “Al Jazeera holds their abduc- Oman plans to set up first budget airline ber states (including Bahrain, Yemen He said the attacks on Saudi mis- tors responsible for their safety and and Syria and Somalia) and its con- sions in Iran were condemned by security,” Souag said. tinued support for terrorism”. countries of the world and regional “It is tragic to see that in times Reuters and Investment Company (MNDIC) grow 40 percent by 2019, and comple- Foreign Minister H E Dr Khalid bin and international organisations, of conflict, news organisations con- — a venture involving the Muscat ment its real estate and entertainment Mohamed Al Attiyah led the Qatari including the UN Security Council, tinue to be targeted. municipal government and several projects, MNDIC’s Chief Executive delegation to the meeting, attended by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Journalists should have the free- DUBAI: Oman plans to establish its state funds, including top sovereign Khalid bin Hilal Al Yahmadi said in a representatives of 37 member states. and the Arab League. dom to do their work without the first budget airline to boost tourism wealth fund -- State General Reserve statement yesterday. He did not reveal Kuwaiti First Deputy Prime Min- He Al Jubeir urged OIC to take a fear of intimidation, abduction or as the plunge in global oil prices Fund — said it had been awarded an a time-frame for establishing the air- ister and Foreign Minister Sheikh strict stance emanating from the prin- unlawful arrest,” he added. encourages the sultanate to diver- air services operator licence by the line or plans to obtain planes. Last Sabah Khalid Al Hamad Al Sabah, ciples of its Charter and principles of Al Jazeera is in contact with sify its economy beyond oil and gas Public Authority for Civil Aviation. October, the government approved a also Chairman of the meeting, reit- international conventions and laws. related parties in Taiz to secure production. The airline will help meet Oman’s restructuring of the flag carrier, loss- erated support for Saudi measures the trio’s release. Muscat National Development strong air traffic demand, expected to making Oman Air. to combat terrorism in all forms and → Picture on page 3 02 FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 HOME Emir holds talks with President Nieto of Mexico

They also discussed regional and international issues of mutual con- Both leaders cern, including developments in the witness the signing Middle East, especially the situation in Palestine, Syria and Yemen. of agreements to Following the talks, the Emir boost cooperation in and Nieto witnessed the signing several areas of agreements and memoranda of understanding between both coun- tries. These included an agreement on cooperation in cultural and artis- QNA tic fields, an MoU on cooperation in energy field, agreements on coopera- tion in education, sport, the exchange of news between Qatar News Agency DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin and the Mexican news agency; an MoU Hamad Al Thani held talks with Mex- between the Supreme Committee for ican President Enrique Pena Nieto at Delivery and Legacy and ProMexico, the Emiri Diwan yesterday. and a letter of intent between Qatar Deputy Emir H H Sheikh Abdullah Foundation for Education, Science bin Hamad Al Thani was present, along and Community Development and Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto during a guard of honour at the Emiri Diwan yesterday. with ministers and Nieto’s delegation. the Mexican Foreign Ministry. Both sides reviewed relations Earlier, Nieto arrived at the Emiri between the two countries and ways Diwan, where he was accorded an banquet in honour of Nieto and his Later, Nieto left wrapping up a two- International Airport by Minister of to Mexico Ahmed Abdulla Ahmed Al of enhancing them in all fields, par- official reception. delegation. Several ministers and busi- day official visit to Qatar. He and his Energy and Industry H E Dr Mohammed Kuwari and Mexican Ambassador to ticularly in economy and investment. The Emir also hosted a luncheon nessmen were also present. delegation were seen off at Hamad bin Saleh Al Sada, Qatari Ambassador Qatar Francisco Javier Nambro Cibrian.

Premier at new Counter Cybercrime Centre HQ Annual Spring Festival begins at Souq Waqif today with daily shows

The Peninsula the main highlight of the festival, will Esplanade. have two shows, one at 4.30pm and Participating entities include another at 7.30pm near Al Bidda Childhood Cultural Centre, Qatar Hotel and Al Rayyan TV. There will Centre for Heritage and Identity, Al DOHA: Hundreds of visitors are also be workshops at the Souq Waqif Gannas Association, Al Adaam Motor- expected to throng Souq Waqif today Art Centre, including spring flowers, cycle Club, Qatar News Agency and the as it opens its annual Spring Festival ceramic and decoupage, mural line, Ministry of Municipality and Urban featuring daily shows and workshops. water painting, reverse glass art, desert Planning. Spread on four locations, shows rose carving and an artists’ forum. Festival organisers have also lined will start at 3.30pm and continue until up folkloric and theatrical shows, 10pm for 15 days beginning today. handicrafts exhibition, best healthcare Entertaining passers-by at the Winter Festival practices, diabetes and blood pres- souq’s alleys are Harlequin stilts show, sure measurements, workshops for lights show, LED stilt walkers show, Katara will start its Winter Festival falconers, Al Galayel competition, and and toy bridge show. on Sunday. Fifteen government enti- birds and animals galleries. The Souq Waqif Park will see ties, cultural organisations and private The ministry will exhibit winter shows by Stilt Butterflies, The Pigeons, companies are organising exhibitions, flowers and plant nurseries and pro- jumping acrobats, Harlequin stilts, competitions, workshops, perform- vide gardening tips from 4pm to 10pm Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani with officers nature parade and fine arts at the ances, games, free health check-ups every day at Katara Esplanade. during the inauguration of the operations, control and security monitoring branch and the new Open Theatre. and awareness campaigns. Qatar News Agency will hold an headquarters of the Counter Cybercrime Centre at the General Directorate of Criminal Investigation, Street performances will be held Events and activities, which will educational exhibition on the role of yesterday. in regular intervals. be free for the public, will run until dissemination of information and The Giant Fountain Circus Show, Thursday from 4pm to 10pm at Katara awareness in a society.

Arabic language forum backs QF’s mission ‘Two by Two’ workshop for Qatari and expat artisans Continued from page 1 The forum noted that the Arabic language is facing multiple challenges, The forum brought together over 300 accelerated by technological devel- The Peninsula the workshop will see exchange prominent figures from the education opments and issues of globalisation, of experiences, techniques and field to contribute to discussions under including the popularisation of inter- creativity between a Qatari arti- the themes such as ‘Realities of the Arab national linguistic trends stemming from san from productive families and child’s linguistic upbringing’; ‘The effects social media. This has led to cultural dilu- DOHA: Fourteen Qatari and expa- a Doha resident artisan. of children’s exposure to current Ara- tion which threatens ‘modern standard triate artisans are collaborating The artisans will work on Sadu bic media content’; and ‘Alternatives to Arabic’, otherwise known as ‘Fus’ha’. to create unique products in a and crochet, jewellery, decoupage develop the Arab child’s linguistic future.’ WORAL was established in 2013 to first-of-its-kind initiative today and small furniture, aquarelle and Through four interactive workshops, address these concerns. Through the event, at Katara Building No. 15. paintings, perfumes and creams, the forum engaged with participants to WORAL supported QF’s mission to foster ‘Two by Two’ brings together clothes and patchwork, dolls, find solutions to the replacement of for- a progressive society proud of its culture Qatari productive families and cushions and kids’ items. After mal Arabic with its colloquial usage. and linguistic traditions. artisans representing expatri- the workshop, the artisans will ate communities in a three-hour display and sell their products in Dr Hassan Rashid Al Derham, President, QU, honouring one of the workshop. Held by the Department stalls in an original and eclectic employers at the event. of Productive Families at the Min- artisan market open to the pub- Indian Coast Guard Ship arriving istry of Labour and Social Affairs, lic from 6pm to 9pm. QU honours employers for The Peninsula with the celebrations of India’s 67th Republic Day. Free medical camp today Doha is the first port of call by the supporting students in 2015 ship during her deployment in the Gulf The Peninsula DOHA: Within the framework of deep- region covering Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the rooted friendly ties and multi-faceted UAE and Oman. and growing cooperation between India ICGS Samudra Prahari and ICGS Vijit The Peninsula Dr Al Derham said: “Today, we and Qatar, Indian Coast Guard Ship ICGS had made friendly voyages to Doha Port honour all companies and institu- DOHA: A free medical camp for low-income workers will be held Sankalp (pictured) will visit Doha Port in February 2013 and December 2014, tions which collaborated to support today at Aster Medical Centre in the Industrial area between 7am and from Janaury 24 until 28 in conjunction respectively. QU’s mission and vision. 1pm. It is organised by Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF) DOHA: The Career Services Cen- “We are grateful to such institu- under the Indian embassy, in association with Indian Doctors Club tre at Qatar University (QU) held its tions for supporting our students last Qatar, Aster Medical Centre and Well Care Pharmacy. ‘Employer Recognition Ceremony’, year, offering them internship and The camp will provide free consultation, including orthopaedic, honouring companies and institutions scholarship opportunities. These insti- dental, dermatology specialised treatment, hypertension and fast- in different sectors which collaborated tutions play a pivotal role in improving ing blood sugar level chec-up with free medicines for around 450 with QU colleges to train or sponsor QU ranking and the quality of our industrial and private workers living in the area. their students last year. students in various sectors.” ICBF held pre-registration of workers and registration forms were A total of 103 employers were pre- Maha Al Marri, Director of the also available at ICBF Helpdesk at the embassy and Aster. Spot reg- sented with trophies by QU President centre, said: “Since its inception, QU is istration will be done for any deserving patient. Dr Hassan Rashid Al Derham, in the committed to building strong relation- A team of 12 doctors (GP and Specialists), paramedical staff and presence of QU leaders, deans, fac- ships with institutions and companies pharmacists from IDC and Aster will assist the camp, approved by ulty and staff and representatives of and providing students with oppor- the Supreme Council of Health. The camp is supported by a group of local institutions from the public and tunities that develop their skills and enthusiastic ICBF members, volunteering for the benevolent cause. private sectors. enrich their academic experience.” It will be inaugurated by Indian Ambassador Sanjiv Arora. GULF / MIDDLE EAST FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 03

Foreign Minister attends OIC meeting Bomb attack Kuwait plans kills six in Cairo CAIRO: A bomb attack killed six people, including three policemen, yesterday near a road leading to the pyramids in the Cairo suburb of subsidy cuts Giza, security sources said. The bomb exploded as the police arrived in their vehicles in front of a building where suspected mili- The Gulf state has posted a budget tants were hiding, the sources said. Kuwait is the only surplus in each of the past 16 years, Thirteen people were wounded. accumulating fiscal reserves in excess The Interior Ministry issued a member of the of $600bn. But Kuwait is projecting statement saying the bomb had been six-nation energy- a deficit of $23bn in this fiscal year, planted by Muslim Brotherhood mil- which ends March 31. itants and went off when security dependent Gulf The price of oil, which contrib- forces tried to raid the building. Cooperation Council utes around 94 percent of Kuwait’s Islamist militants have stepped revenues, has lost three quarters of up attacks on Egyptian soldiers (GCC) that has not its value since mid-2014. The price and police since the army toppled hiked the prices of of Kuwaiti oil has slumped to just $19 president Mohammed Mursi of the petrol and power a barrel. Muslim Brotherhood in 2013 after The emirate has a native popula- mass protests against his rule. Civil- tion of 1.3 million and is also home to ians have also been killed. about 2.9 million foreigners. Agencies Emir also said operations and exports from oil fields jointly oper- ated with Saudi Arabia will resume Two bombs hit soon, local media reported. KUWAIT CITY: Kuwait’s Emir H H “The resumption of operations Mogadishu cafe Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al and exports in joint oil fields will Sabah said yesterday that the Gulf resume soon. No matter what hap- MOGADISHU: Two car bombs country plans to cut heavy subsidies pens, we don’t have a disagreement Foreign Minister H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah attends an emergency meeting of the exploded at the entrance to a on fuel and power in a bid to offset a with Saudi Arabia and even if there Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in the Saudi city of Jeddah yesterday. beachside restaurant in the Somali fall in oil revenues. is one, it will be resolved,” Sheikh capital Mogadishu in the space of “We will lift subsidies and will Sabah was quoted as saying by Al Rai . an hour yesterday, police and wit- raise the prices of petrol, electric- He did not elaborate on how obsta- nesses said, with suspected Islamist ity and water” and reduce subsidies cles to reopening the fields would be fighters holed up inside. for other services, the Al Rai daily removed. There was no immediate claim quoted the emir as telling editors of The Al Khafji oilfield has been shut Air strikes on Yemeni oil port kill 9 of responsibility but the police said Kuwaiti newspapers. since October 2014 for non-compli- gunmen from the militant group al Kuwait is the only member of the ance with new Saudi environmental Shabaab, which is aligned with Al six-nation energy-dependent Gulf standards. It is operated by Al Khafji Qaeda, had stormed the restau- Cooperation Council (GCC) that has Joint Operations Co, a joint venture Reuters suffering burns from the burning fuel,” The United Nations says nearly rant and set off the first car bomb not hiked the prices of petrol and between AGOC, a subsidiary of state one source said in a text message. 6,000 people have been killed in fight- at dusk. “The second car bomb has power after income from oil plunged. oil firm Saudi Aramco, and Kuwait Photos showed fire trucks trying to ing which began after the Houthis just exploded and the fighters are Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Gulf Oil Co. put out flames rising from fuel trucks advanced on the southern port city still inside,” Major Farah Abdulle, a Emirates, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain Saudi Arabia and Kuwait also CAIRO: Air strikes by coalition forces as black smoke covered the area. of Aden, where Hadi had been based. police officer at the scene, told Reu- have either hiked or liberalised fuel share the Wafra oilfield, which has hit oil facilities in Yemen yesterday, Ras Isa is Yemen’s main oil Hundreds of thousands of people have ters. “We cannot know the number and power prices, saving billions of been shut since May 2015 by operating killing at least nine people, workers export terminal but no shipments been displaced by the fighting. of casualties inside.” dollars. difficulties, according to officials. U.S. and medics said, and four Yemeni gov- have been leaving since the Saudi- In eastern Yemen, four Yemeni gov- Al Shabaab has carried out The emir however did not give any oil major Chevron operates the field ernment soldiers died in a suspected led coalition of Arab states launched ernment soldiers were killed and four similar attacks in the past across timeframe for the measures. on behalf of the Saudi government. militant attack. a military campaign in March last wounded in a bomb attack on their Mogadishu, often targeting hotels Last year, Kuwait liberalised the Before the closure, the Khafji field The air attack on a Red Sea facil- year to shore up President Abdrabuh vehicle near a border post between and restaurants popular with gov- prices of diesel and kerosene. produced around 280,000 to 300,000 ity at Ras Isa port, used to load tanker Mansur Hadi against his Iran-allied Yemen and Saudi Arabia, a govern- ernment officials and foreigners. The government has allocated barrels per day, while Wafra has an trucks with refined products for domes- Houthi enemies. ment official said. Witnesses said the echo of the around $7bn (¤6.4bn) in the 2015/2016 output capacity of about 220,000 bpd. tic distribution, wounded at least 30 Oil workers said the oil export The official said al Qaeda mili- huge second explosion could be budget for fuel and power subsidies. The remarks by the emir were other people, medical sources said. facilities in the area and a nearby tants, who are known to operate in heard across the city centre, and A similar amount is earmarked for made at a meeting with newspaper “The bodies were either burned sugar refinery were not affected by the area, were suspected of carrying that it had been followed by spo- other forms of subsidies and social aid. editors, Al Rai reported. or mutilated, most of the wounded Thursday’s attack. out the attack at al Wadia. radic gunfire.

Iraqi PM doubts any Iranian link Syria talks to start even if opposition boycotts: Russia with 3 missing Reuters Staffan de Mistura said on Wednesday negotiations in Geneva with the gov- Kassis. A Western diplomat dismissed Americans - the talks may be delayed, but major ernment if a third group took part. the Russian comments and said that A Syrian opposition powers must keep up the pressure to But the Russian diplomat said that without the opposition there would council backed by bring participants to the table. if the opposition council did not turn be no talks to speak of. Reuters DAMASCUSS: Russia will back an Kerry met de Mistura in Davos up in Geneva, the talks would still go A delegation of civil society groups, Saudi Arabia said alternative Syrian opposition delegation yesterday and held talks with Rus- ahead. “(In case of a boycott), then the and potentially a delegation represent- it would not attend to negotiate with Syria’s government at sian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov number two delegation comes. They ing Syrian women, might also take peace talks in Geneva later this month on Wednesday at which they both said will negotiate with the government,” part in the Geneva talks, depending DAVOS: Iraqi Prime Minister Prime the negotiations if the existing opposition team is not talks should go ahead in January despite the diplomat said. “Either Kerry will on how De Mistura decides to organ- Minister Haider al-Abadi said yes- in Geneva with the reformed or boycotts the talks, a Rus- the apparent lack of agreement on who convince the Saudis to expand (the ise them, the Russian diplomat said. terday that three Americans who sian diplomat said. “What we are trying should represent the opposition. opposition representation) or we will The diplomat said the international disappeared in Iraq last week “just government if a to achieve is to either expand the ‘Riy- Friday Jan. 29 is “the last day” opt for a second delegation.” powers convening the talks had not went missing,” and he very much adh’ delegation to include the moderate for convening the talks, the Russian The second delegation would agreed which Syrian groups should be doubted any Iranian involvement. third group took opposition or to have a separate oppo- diplomat said. A Syrian opposition include Saleh Muslim from the Kurdish considered terrorist, and that discus- Asked by a pool reporter at the part sition delegation,” the diplomat said. council backed by Saudi Arabia said PYD group and activists such as Hay- sion was likely to continue in parallel start of a meeting with U.S. Secre- The UN Special Envoy for Syria on Wednesday it would not attend the tham Manna, Qadri Jamil, and Randa as De Mistura launches the peace talks. tary of State John Kerry in Davos if he thought there was an Iranian link to their disappearance, Abadi said: “I don’t know about that. I doubt it very much. We don’t know if they Bahrain Airshow Kerry rejects Iranian have been kidnapped ... They just went missing.” criticism of sanctions Iraqi intelligence and U.S. gov- ernment sources said on Tuesday the three U.S. citizens were kidnapped AFP and were being held by an Iranian- backed Shi’ite militia. They are the first Americans to be abducted in Iraq since the withdrawal of U.S. DAVOS, SWITZERLAND: The United States stands troops in 2011. by its new ballistic missile-related sanctions on Iran, The U.S. sources said Washing- US Secretary of State John Kerry said yesterday after ton had no reason to believe Tehran Tehran described the decision as “bizarre”. was involved in the kidnapping and Washington unveiled the new missile-linked sanc- did not believe the trio were being tions against Iran on Sunday -- almost immediately held in Iran, which borders Iraq. after separate international sanctions related to Tehran’s Unknown gunmen seized the alleged nuclear activities had been scrapped. three on Friday from a private res- “We have made it very clear that we use sanctions idence in the southeastern Dora when we think they are appropriate in order to coun- district of Baghdad, Iraqi officials ter behaviour that we believe has broken the law or say. Kerry said the United States has challenged the United Nations Security Council or was working closely with Iraq on threatened the United States,” Kerry said on the side- the issue. lines of a gathering of billionaires and political leaders “They are really investigating in the Swiss ski resort of Davos. this. He (Abadi) is looking at it. He “We stand by our sanctions,” Kerry said. was not able to shed light on the “We think they have been used judiciously and who, where or what and they are effectively and we are looking to move on now to put still trying to get all of that piece to test the willingness of Iran and other countries in together.” the region to try to reduce tensions and move in a dif- Kerry said he had also raised ferent direction.” the issue in a meeting with Ira- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, nian Foreign Minster Javad Zarif who was also in Davos, criticised the US decision on on Wednesday. missile-related sanctions. “I asked him for whatever help, “I find it rather bizarre that the United States expresses if Iran knew any way to provide concern over the Iranian missile programme, which is help, or if there was some way they Saudi Hawks display team performs during the opening of the Bahrain International Airshow 2016, in Sakhir, south of defensive and does not violate any current international could have impact in getting the capital Manama, yesterday. regulation,” Zarif told an audience of bankers and top right outcome,” he said. business figures on Wednesday. 04 FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 MIDDLE EAST

Enjoying snow IS attacks major oil terminal in Libya

Reuters targeted, said Mohamed al-Manfi, an energy official allied with Libya’s eastern-based government. Ras Lanuf and Es Sider together BENGHAZI/TRIPOLI: Islamic State have an export capacity of 600,000 militants set fire yesterday to oil stor- barrels per day. They were processing age tanks in a fresh assault on Ras about half of that before they were Lanuf terminal in northern Libya and both closed in December 2014. the group threatened further attacks The NOC said the area was fac- as they exploit a prolonged power vac- ing an “environmental catastrophe”, uum in the large north African nation. with huge columns of smoke billowing The chairman of the National from the fires and damage to power Oil Corporation, Mustafa Sanalla, lines supplying residential and indus- told reporters in Tripoli that Ras trial districts. Lanuf — shut since December 2014 “Residents are trying to build a — would remain closed for a “long barrier to stop the oil and fire from time” because of the damage inflicted reaching gas pipelines and water pipe- on Thursday and in earlier attacks. lines, and the main road,” the NOC’s Libya remains dogged by vio- Harari said. Islamic State militants lence and political turmoil nearly five have managed to establish a foothold years after the overthrow of veteran in the city of Sirte, which lies about leader Muammar Gaddafi, with two 200km along the coast to the west rival governments and parliaments of Ras Lanuf and Es Sider. based in Tripoli and in the east as In a video posted on Islamic State’s well as various armed factions vying official Telegram channel, fighter Abu for power and a share of the coun- Abdelrahman Al Liby said: “Today Es try’s oil wealth. Sider port and Ras Lanuf and tomor- The Islamic State militants drove row the port of Brega and after the into the oil storage site early in the ports of Tobruk, Es Serir, Jallo, and morning and clashed with security Al Kufra.” guards before retreating and firing Libya’s current oil production from a distance to set four tanks on stands at 362,000 barrels per day, fire, NOC spokesman Mohamed Al he told Reuters. That is less than a Harari said. A pipeline leading from quarter of a 2011 high of 1.6 million the Amal oil field to the nearby Es barrels per day, though production Children slide down a snow-covered slope in a park during winter in Ankara, Turkey, yesterday. Sider terminal, the biggest on Lib- has not changed significantly in recent ya’s Mediterranean coast, was also weeks. Jobless protests stir unrest in Tunisia

an unemployed man who was elec- and the protests have since Tuesday trocuted atop a power pole near the spread to nearby towns. As on the pre- Protests and clashes governor’s office. vious days, protesters yesterday set up with security forces Ridha Yahyaoui, 28, was protest- roadblocks with burning tyres and ing after his name was removed from pelted security forces with stones, a started in Kasserine a list of hires for coveted public sec- correspondent said. following the death tor jobs. In Feriana, 30km (18 miles) on Saturday of an “It’s as if we were back in 2010- away, a policeman was killed 2011,” Al Shuruk newspaper wrote, Wednesday during an operation unemployed man referring to the revolution that over- to disperse demonstrators, the inte- who was electrocuted threw dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. rior ministry said. The uprising was sparked by the A security source said that he died atop a power pole death of Mohamed Bouazizi, who set when his vehicle was overturned. near the governor’s himself on fire in nearby Sidi Bouzid, Yesterday, a crowd of more than in protest at unemployment and police 1,000 gathered outside the gover- office. harassment in December 2010 and nor’s office in Kasserine demanding died a month later. information on a government In the face of this week’s burgeon- announcement the previous day of AFP ing unrest, Prime Minister Habib Essid plans to create 5,000 jobs. cut short a European tour to return “We’ve had enough of promises home yesterday. and being marginalised. We were the Essid is to chair an emergency ones who led the revolution and we KASSERINE, TUNISIA: Fresh pro- cabinet meeting tomorrow and give will not stay silent,” said protester tests over unemployment and poverty a news conference, his office said in Marwa Zorgui. Another young dem- in central Tunisia yesterday raised a statement. onstrator was persuaded by friends fears of growing social unrest five Despite the success of Tunisia’s at the last minute not to leap to his A man throws a tear gas canister back towards police during a protest outside the local government office years after the country’s revolution political transition in the past five death from the rooftop of the gover- in Kasserine, Tunisia, yesterday. Several thousands demonstrated outside the local government office in ignited by similar grievances. The years, the authorities have failed to norate building. the impoverished town where protests began this week after a young man killed himself after apparently discontent spread to several towns resolve the problems of social exclu- As the protests spread, protesters being refused a public job. in central Tunisia, with demonstra- sion and regional disparities. yesterday cut off roads in Sidi Bouzid tors taking to the streets. Tensions remain high in Kasser- and clashed with police, while simi- Protests and clashes with secu- ine, where security forces have used lar demonstrations were reported in has acknowledged his government and 250,000 of them young people hit by political instability combined rity forces started in Kasserine tear gas and water cannon against the central towns of Jendouba, Gafsa had “inherited a very difficult situ- who have degrees”. with jihadist attacks that have hob- following the death on Saturday of crowds of hundreds of demonstrators, and Kebili. President Beji Caid Essebsi ation” with “700,000 unemployed Tunisia’s economy has been hard bled its vital tourism sector. China’s Xi inks deals worth billions on Mideast tour

AFP China, the world’s second-largest economy, lure Chinese holidaymakers to Egypt, whose econ- also relies heavily on oil and gas imported from omy is heavily dependant on revenues from the the energy-rich Middle East. tourism sector. “We are not setting up proxies or building a sphere In Saudi Arabia, Xi met with the Custodian of the CAIRO: Chinese President Xi Jinping announced of influence in the region,” Xi told the Arab League. Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and yesterday billions of dollars in special loans and Xi signed a slew of separate agreements with oversaw the opening of a joint-venture oil refinery investments in the Middle East as Beijing seeks to Cairo for undertaking projects in sectors like elec- in the Yanbu Industrial City on the Red Sea. boost its economic ties and clout in the region. tricity, transportation and infrastructure. Saudi Arabia is China’s biggest global supplier Xi offered China’s financial support in an address “The total investments in these projects would of crude. Few details have emerged of Xi’s talks to the Cairo-based Arab League after holding talks be $15bn. These projects will offer a new impetus with leaders in Riyadh but late on Wednesday the with Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi during to the economic development of Egypt,” he said in Saudi Press Agency reported that the two countries his first tour to the Middle East as president. a joint statement with Sisi. decided to establish a “comprehensive strategic Xi arrived in Cairo late Wednesday from Saudi Sisi said the agreements were the “best evidence partnership”. Arabia and will travel on Friday to Iran, the last leg of the two countries’ determination to improve their During his visit to Riyadh, Xi had been expected of his three-nation tour. levels of cooperation.” to seek to ease tensions between Saudi Arabia, the Xi offered $55 billion in loans and investments In an article in state-run newspaper Al-Ahram region’s main Sunni power, and Shiite rival Iran. to the Middle East. ahead of his visit, Xi expressed China’s backing for Saudi Arabia and a number of its Sunni Arab “China will offer $15 billion (13.8 billion euros) Egypt running its affairs without outside interference. allies broke diplomatic ties with Tehran this month as special loans for industrial projects in the Mid- “China supports the people of Egypt in mak- after protesters angry over Riyadh’s execution of dle East,” he told the Arab League. ing independent choices for the future of their own a prominent Shiite cleric ransacked Saudi diplo- Another $10bn would be provided as commer- country,” he wrote. matic missions in Iran. Iran and Saudi Arabia back cial loans to boost cooperation in the energy sector Xi’s visit to Egypt comes just ahead of the January opposing sides in a range of Middle East conflicts, and an equivalent amount will be offered as pref- 25 anniversary of the 2011 revolution that toppled including in Syria and Yemen, and there are fears the erential loans, he said. longtime Egyptian autocrat Hosni Mubarak. row could derail diplomatic efforts to resolve them. Xi also announced the establishment of a com- Mubarak’s ouster was followed by unrest and a Xi was expected in Iran, just days after sanctions mon investment fund worth $20 billion for Qatar military overthrow of his Islamist successor Mohamed were lifted when Tehran implemented its historic and the United Arab Emirates. Morsi, the country’s first freely elected president, nuclear deal with world powers. Beijing has long taken a backseat to other dip- by then-army chief Sisi. China, with the United States, Britain, France, lomatic players in the Middle East but analysts say Later yesterday, Xi was to visit the famed tem- Germany and Russia, was among the countries that the region is crucial to Xi’s signature foreign policy ple city of Luxor to attend celebrations marking six reached the agreement with Iran in July to curtail Chinese President Xi Jinping addressing members of the Arab League, initiative -- known as “One Belt One Road” -- touted decades of diplomatic relations between Cairo and its nuclear activities in exchange for ending inter- in the Egyptian capital Cairo yesterday. as a revival of ancient Silk Road trade routes. Beijing. His trip to Luxor is also seen as an attempt to national sanctions. ISLAM FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 05 Major and minor sins in Islam

By Luzita Ball Major sins nullify good actions, such as fasting, ome Christians accuse Islam and the Holy Quran of being inspired by Satan. praying, charity or That is partly because they see people pilgrimage, and need to be like Al Qaeda and Daesh on their news Scommitting the worst acts of cruelty, and injus- stopped and repented from tice, as well as immorality, in the name of Islam. as soon as possible If any Christian did these things in the name of Christianity they would be shocked and not consider Christianity at fault, but many peo- ple claiming to be Christian have done these them can lead towards injury, murder or other acts and worse, in the name of Christianity, oppression. These include being suspicious, especially during wars, for example Joseph spying, eavesdropping, spreading harmful tales, Coney and his ‘Lord’s Resistance Army’, and back-biting, slander, unjust and ungrateful seemingly also the Serbian Nationalist army in rebellion against a husband; harming or annoy- Bosnia. It is important to find out what the orig- ing neighbours, cutting off the ties of family inal teachings of Islam say. In fact the morality and between Muslims, not accepting the mar- of Islam is very similar to that of Christianity riage a pious man who your daughter agrees and Judaism, and most world religions, except to marry, arguing, pointing weapons at oth- more clear and comprehensive. ers, cursing, swearing at and insulting others, There are some that might feel like avoid- not sharing resources; and not fulfilling con- ing this article, as they have the idea that God tracts, promises and obligations. will only hold them accountable for what they Delaying salat (ritual prayer) can lead to knew was wrong and still went ahead and did, people missing the salat completely, and some However, in the Quran, it is repeated many people may overtime become lazy or in despair, times that God also holds people to account and stop praying altogether which is a major for their intentional lack of use of their heart sin- and a reflection of lack of belief in Islam. or conscience, intellect and senses, to seek If a Muslim avoids the major sins, then killed defending the Muslims); and drinking include: Showing off can cause envy and jealousy and knowledge and reflect in order to find the truth. each of his daily ritual prayer (salat), which or taking alcohol or intoxicants (which can Adultery, fornication (lack of chastity before therefore provoke theft, injury and even murder. Some people are intentionally ignorant, or involve seeking forgiveness and guidance, and lead to manslaughter, murder, theft, and most or faithfulness during marriage); as well as Not keeping clean from impure substances can they intentionally cover up the truth. Many peo- an important act of obedience and devotion to other sins). lewdness (homosexual acts such as anal inter- cause annoyance and diseases to spread which ple use the words ‘this subject is too heavy or Allah, will serve as an expiation for the minor course or ‘liwat’), and pimping or facilitating can lead to suffering and even death. Finally, too boring’, because it seems too much for them sins that he has committed since the previous P Causing miscarriages of justice can also indecency between people. harming yourself with forbidden foods and drinks to face up to their guilt and to try to change. salat. The five daily prayers therefore can have result in loss of life, injury, oppression and great and striking oneself or eating too much or too However their lives will not improve until they a cleansing and purifying effect on the con- harm to people’s honour and reputation: P Sorcery and black magic: little, and not keeping clean or otherwise look- do so! Sins are bad because they hurt your science and heart. This is done through secret oaths, promises, These can actually have an effect on rela- ing after your body can also end up impacting soul- heart mind and body, and they usually bribing judges, judging unjustly, bearing false tionships and mental health at the very least, others’ lives, such as not being able to fulfil their hurt others too. THE MAJOR SINS witness, claiming a relationship to a father when and involve many forbidden acts or sins which rights, and so these are also minor sins. Some believe that God easily forgives eve- untrue, slandering innocent people- especially result from cooperating with and meeting the In his final sermon to the Muslim com- rything, does not judge them, get angry with P Major sins include those that affect peo- defaming women, persistent lying and so on- demands of beings other than God (Jinns), and munity that he was leaving behind, Prophet them or punish them, just being a kind of friend ple’s beliefs: which are all major sins in Islam. so are both major sins, along with any consul- Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: ‘Beware when they are in need. However Islam says Worshipping and obeying anything instead tation of those who claim to predict the future. of Satan, for the safety of your religion. He has that God loves those who are obedient to Him, of, in preference to, or as a partner to Allah (the P Unlawful or Haram ways of obtaining (Authority for this: Abu Talib Makki, Qut lost all hope that he will ever be able to lead and does not love those that disobey Him, that One Universal God); Making statues of idols wealth and property are those that include: Al Qulub, p365 - 7, vol. 3) you astray in your major actions, so beware of God is the only (just) Judge in the Hereafter, or other images to be glorified; Preaching or Stealing, fraud, deceit; charging and ‘con- following him in your minor actions.’ and that He keeps a detailed record of every- establishing errors or adding to Allah’s Book suming’ interest; manipulating inheritance, ACCOUNTABILITY He also said, and this is particularly rel- thing we do in our lives. (the Quran); Abusing, reviling or spreading usurping the wealth of orphans; betraying trusts, evant to today, ‘Satan has given up hope that It is important in this age of widespread hatred of Allah’s Prophets and Messengers, or unjust taxes, extortion, exploitation (excess Even for Major sins, despite witnesses and there will be idol worship in the Arabian Penin- corruption and bad examples, on all sides it harming a friend of Allah, all lead away from profiteering from low-paid or slave labour) being caught, the perpetrator has the option sula (i.e. lands of the Muslims) but he will seems, especially in war situations, that the the true and pure worship of One God. These and blackmail. If anyone uses these methods of repentance and compensating the victims be pleased with what is less than that – with concept of Major (Kaba’ir) and Minor (Sagha’ir) are the source of a great deal of oppression they are committing Major sins. In fact God if the victims choose this option. The sever- the sins that you belittle, and these will be the sins are understood clearly, and to know what of all kinds, as they lead to people following has made war on those charging interest, and est punishments are only to be implemented destroyers on the Day of Resurrection.’ they are specifically. The just ends do not justify something other than the laws of God that are cursed them, and it can be seen that interest by a state properly run in accordance with the unjust means, and all is not fair in love and in tune with our true human nature and real- payments lead to some countries and people Islamic laws and justice, by popular consent, DOUBTFUL MATTERS war! Much of the corporate controlled media ity, and not having their prayers answered. being unable to escape debt and poverty or in which people’s needs can be met lawfully. seems to be eroding perceptions of morality, to make progress in solving their problems. This is rarely the case today. Some issues and situations are not clear cut, and in some cases it seems intentional. P Disrespect to, and disobedience of par- Even in cases of certainty, beyond all doubt- and we are not sure whether a course of action is Major sins are those that God has either ents when they are commanding what God P Destroying or misusing property and based on many witnesses and much evidence, wrong or right, harmful or beneficial- perhaps cursed, made war on, or promised a very severe commanded: wealth that are commonly owned resources the severest punishments are reserved as a last ‘a grey area’. We could ask a variety of scholars punishment for doing. Major sins nullify good This is because it can cause a lot of pain and is also a major sin: resort and deterrent, only for cases of clearly about their opinion if they are accessible. If this actions, such as fasting, praying, charity or pil- misery to parents, and bad behaviour towards Examples of this include the deliberate willing participation in unnecessary, shame- is not possible or the decision is not worth this grimage, and need to be stopped and repented others, and can be the cause of a lot of other destruction and pollution of the environment less, rebellious, and publicly committed sins effort, we are advised by the Prophet Muham- from as soon as possible. Also they will cause different sins. If you don’t listen to wise par- and ecosystems; wasting resources such as or crimes, designed to spread corruption, or mad (PBUH) that we should pray ‘Istikhara’ or a God not to accept or answer a Muslim’s requests ents who will you listen to? Even if they are water; luxurious living by spending wastefully done as part of a group ritual by satanic cults. prayer to God for guidance in our decisions, and in supplicatory prayers (du’a), except for prayers partly wrong, they should be listened to and and unnecessarily beyond our needs especially Many lesser punishments are used for cases to destine what is best for us. If we think some- of repentance, forgiveness and guidance. the issue discussed politely. on vanities (i.e. for showing off); and gambling in which there is any doubt, or if there are any thing may be a sin, then the Prophet’s (PBUH) Minor sins are those that lead to the major with money and property. All these are likely to extenuating circumstances, such as the lack of advice is that we should stay away from doubt- sins. If persisted in, each of these minor sins P Other sins that are easily recognised as lead to debt in the end, as well as poverty and a proper education, economic and state wel- ful matters, in order to avoid possible negative can become a major sin. Minor sins are like incurring loss of life to innocent non-combat- deprivation for poorer people whose right to fare system, in the case of stealing. consequences or angering God. faults, inadvertent behaviour and shortcom- ants, or great harm which can lead to deaths, be helped by those who are better off is being ings which are neither punishable nor is there a include: ignored. The result of such misuse of money THE MINOR SINS NEXT WEEK: How to stay away from sin promise of Hellfire for the one who is guilty of Suicide, murder, oppression, domination, and resources can be envy, anger, destroyed them, but which we need to try to be aware of, and exploitation by force (eg. through inter- relationships, arguments and even murder. There are minor sins which, when per- Luzita Ball is an English revert sister who and correct ourselves from as quickly as pos- est on debt, slavery, very low wages); plotting sisted in, can become a major sin and lead to has studied, researched, written and spo- sible, to avoid developing a bad habit that is evil and spreading mischief (this could include P Sins causing harm to or preventing others’ the other major sins being committed. Any- ken about Islam for most of her life, since hard to get rid of, and the possibility of being sedition against the state); running from the marriages and family life, as well as harming thing that harms, upsets or annoys other people 1991. To contact the writer mail to: L.ball. led, step. by step towards a major sin. battlefield (allowing others to get injured and the rights and good upbringing of children, and causes division and argument between [email protected]

Human rights and justice in Islam Sayings of the Prophet

Best Jihad not. Islam also protects honour. So, a red person,3 except in piety.4 injustice shall be darkness on the Day O mankind, We have in Islam, insulting others or making One of the major problems facing of Judgment.6 Abu Said Al Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) created you from a fun of them is not allowed. mankind today is racism. The devel- And those who have not gotten reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The best type of Jihad The Prophet Muhammad (peace oped world can send a man to the moon their rights (i.e. what they have a just (striving in the way of Allah) is speaking a true word in the male and a female be upon him) said: Truly your blood, but cannot stop man from hating and claim to) in this life will receive them presence of a tyrant ruler.’’ and have made you your property, and your honour are fighting his fellow man. on the Day of Judgment, as the Prophet inviolable.1 Ever since the days of the Prophet (PBUH) said: On the Day of Judg- Abu Dawud and Tirmidhi into nations and Racism is not allowed in Islam, for Muhammad (PBUH), Islam has pro- ment, rights will be given to those the Quran speaks of human equality vided a vivid example of how racism to whom they are due (and wrongs Trust tribes for you to in the following terms: can be ended. will be redressed)...7 know one another. O mankind, We have created you The annual pilgrimage (Hajj) to from a male and a female and have Makkah shows the real Islamic broth- Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Truly, the noblest of made you into nations and tribes for erhood of all races and nations, when Footnotes: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “There are three signs of a you with God is the you to know one another. Truly, the about two million Muslims from all hypocrite: When he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise, noblest of you with God is the most over the world come to Makkah to (1) Narrated in Saheeh Al-Bukhari, he breaks it; and when he is trusted, he betrays his trust.” most pious. Truly, pious.2 Truly, God is All-Knowing, perform the pilgrimage. #1739, and Mosnad Ahmad, #2037. God is All-Knowing, All-Aware. (Quran, 49:13) Islam is a religion of justice. God (2) A pious person is a believer who Bukhari and Muslim Islam rejects certain individuals has said: abstains from all kinds of sins, performs All-Aware. (Quran, or nations being favoured because Truly God commands you to give all good deeds that God commands us to Charity 49:13) of their wealth, power, or race. God back trusts to those to whom they are do, and fears and loves God. created human beings as equals who due, and when you judge between peo- (3) The colors mentioned in this Pro- are to be distinguished from each ple, to judge with justice.... (Quran, 4:58) phetic saying are examples. The meaning is Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: other only on the basis of their faith And He said: that in Islam no one is better than another Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “On every joint of man, and piety. The Prophet Muhammad ...And act justly. Truly, God loves because of his color, whether it is white, there is charity, on every day when the sun rises: doing (PBUH) said: those who are just. (Quran, 49:9) black, red, or any other colour. justice between two men is charity, and assisting a man to slam provides many human rights O people! Your God is one and your We should even be just with those (4) Narrated in Mosnad Ahmad, #22978. ride an animal or to load his luggage on it is charity; and a for the individual. The following forefather (Adam) is one. An Arab is who we hate, as God has said: (5) i.e. oppressing others, acting unjustly, good word is charity, every step which one takes towards are some of these human rights not better than a non-Arab and a non- ...And let not the hatred of oth- or doing wrong to others. (the mosque for) Salat (prayer) is charity, and removing that Islam protects. Arab is not better than an Arab, and ers make you avoid justice. Be just: (6) Narrated in Mosnad Ahmad, #5798, harmful things from the way is charity”. IThe life and property of all citi- a red (i.e. white tinged with red) per- that is nearer to piety.... (Quran, 5:8) and Saheeh Al-Bukhari, #2447. zens in an Islamic state are considered son is not better than a black person The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) (7) Narrated in Saheeh Muslim, #2582, Bukhari and Muslim sacred, whether a person is Muslim or and a black person is not better than said: People, beware of injustice,5 for and Mosnad Ahmad, #7163. 06 FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 ASIA / PHILIPPINES

Filipinos plan Fire in Manila leaves 80 families homeless second protest trip to Spratlys

They criticise the Philippine gov- Vera Joy Ban-eg, ernment for not doing anything to stop Chinese fishermen from har- spokeswoman for vesting giant clams and collecting the Kalayaan Atin Ito fish with dynamite and cyanide fish- ing. “China has established firm and group, said: “In April, effective control of the South China we will make another Sea,” Ban-eg said. Meanwjile, Chinese naval com- voyage to our islands. mander Wu Shengli said the amount This time, we will of military facilities China builds on islands in the South China Sea depends spend a month to on the level of threat it faces although visit all the islands China does not seek militarisation. we occupy in the China has been reclaiming land and building artificial islands there Spratlys” that it says are mostly for civilian uses but are also for defensive purposes. This month, Beijing landed three flights on Fiery Cross Reef in the dis- Reuters puted Spratly archipelago, angering Vietnam and the Philippines and drawing criticism from the United States, which expressed deep con- MANILA: Filipino protesters plan a cern that it will exacerbate tension second trip to disputed islands in the in the region. South China Sea, this time staying a Speaking on a teleconference with month, a spokeswoman said yester- US Chief of Naval Operations Admi- Filipinos search for salvageable materials following a fire in Manila, the Philippines, yesterday. The fire which hit a residential area in day, after China flew a planeload of ral John Richardson, Shengli said the Manila left 80 families homeless according to local reports. tourists to an artificial island it has landings were made to see whether built in the area. the airport was up to civilian airline China claims almost the entire standards, the Defence Ministry said. energy-rich South China Sea, where This would better help China ful- about $5 trillion worth of ship-borne fil its international obligations and trade passes each year. Brunei, Malay- provide a service to the rest of the Vietnam kicks off secretive political transition sia, the Philippines, Taiwan and world, Wu added, although China Vietnam also have claims. has yet to give any indication that Last week, Beijing allowed in foreign airlines may be allowed to its first group of tourists, most of use the new airport. AFP can be declared ‘clinically dead,’” one beyond the two-term limit he has much further and much more quickly,” them family of soldiers stationed on “Our necessary defensive step of senior communist party official, said. served as Prime Minister. on issues like market reforms, free man-made Fiery Cross in the Spratly building on islands and reefs in the Dung, who presided over Vietnam Despite prior allegations of cor- trade deals, and security ties with the Islands, as it began test flights on the Nansha Islands is not militarisation, joining the World Trade Organisation ruption, he is the preferred choice for US, Vietnam expert Carl Thayer said. 3,000-metre runway. but this has been maliciously hyped HANOI: Vietnam began a crucial and the US-led Trans Pacific Partner- the top post of most foreign investors, Dung is also seen as more outspo- “China is now doing what we actu- up by certain countries and media,” political transition yesterday as the ship (TPP) trade deal, had been tipped eager for greater access to the rapidly ken on a maritime dispute with China, ally did last month when we landed Wu said, using the Chinese name for five-yearly Communist Party congress by analysts to move up to the power- growing consumer market of some 90 which this week moved an oil rig into on Pagasa (Thitu) island,” said Vera the Spratlys. convened to pick new leaders amid a ful position of party general secretary. million people. waters claimed by Hanoi. Joy Ban-eg, spokeswoman for the Whether or not the islands are bitter factional fight, the outcome of While many cautioned it was too To ordinary Vietnamese the con- “China always keeps up the pres- Kalayaan Atin Ito (Freedom This is militarised depends on the purpose which could set the pace of key eco- early to rule him out entirely, they said gress is a bloated re-run of internal sure on the Vietnamese leadership, Ours) group. of the construction and how facilities nomic reforms. his name does not appear on a leaked party battles with little bearing on especially before and during the In December, about 50 Filipino are used once they are completed, he Police closed roads and jammed list of candidates for the top leader- their day-to-day lives. party congress,” said Duong Danh protesters, mostly students, made a added. “We will certainly not seek the mobile phone signals as communist ship posts. “I don’t like any of this country’s Dy, a retired Vietnamese diplomat three-day boat trip to Thitu, one of militarisation of the islands and reefs, leaders and some 1,500 party delegates Any sidelining of Dung would be leaders but if I could choose, I’d pick who spent 14 years at the embassy nine outcrops or islands occupied by but we won’t not set up defences. How met in Hanoi for week-long closed- a victory for incumbent party leader the business-minded ones,” Duc Trung, in Beijing. the Philippines. many defences completely depends on door talks. The country’s top three Nguyen Phu Trong — a conservative 37, said, rather than the ideologues China last moved the rig into “In April, we will make another the level of threat we face,” Wu said. positions — party general secretary, apparatchik who has been manoeu- “with their theories which have no contested waters in 2014, triggering voyage to our islands. This time, we China’s navy has both the ability president and prime minister — are vring to extend his term and install bearing on reality”. protests and riots in Vietnam that left at will spend a month to visit all the and the determination to protect the up for grabs. allies in top positions. Yet if the star of 66-year-old Dung least three people dead, and prompt- islands we occupy in the Spratlys. We Spratly Islands, he added, without As delegates gathered in a vast “The path of socialism is still suit- wanes, analysts say it will be bad news ing Hanoi to move closer to its former are encouraging all patriotic Filipinos elaboration. China rebuked Wash- hall under portraits of revolutionary able to the reality in Vietnam,” Trong, for reformers and the Vietnamese wartime foe the United States. to join us and fight for our territory.” ington in October after a US warship leaders Ho Chi Minh, Marx and Lenin, who is seen as closer to Beijing, said economy. The party congress will also The protesters said Filipino fish- sailed within 12 nautical miles of one there were indications that the party as he opened the meeting yesterday. While neither side is likely to approve a five-year economic blue- ermen could no longer use their of the islands. US officials have said old guard would push out pro-market Dissidents had warned that Dung dramatically change course, Dung’s print, which will seek to build on recent traditional fishing grounds because they plan additional patrols in com- leaning reformers led by Prime Min- risked becoming “Vietnam’s Putin” if faction is broadly more competent and impressive economic growth of nearly large Chinese coast guard ships were ing months, but no dates have been ister Nguyen Tan Dung. he was promoted to party leader, in pro-market. seven percent annually, a rate that is driving them away. set for the next such exercise. “Nguyen Tan Dung’s political career reference to his hanging on to power “With Dung, the country will move one of Asia’s strongest.

20% of Philippine households without power Taiwan voices concern over live fire and landing drills by China

Reuters government to tread carefully. Right off Xiamen’s coast is Kim- Chinese state nen, an island controlled by Taiwan television said the since 1949 and until the late 1970s TAIPEI/BEIJING: Taiwan expressed a place regularly shelled by China. serious concern yesterday over a Chi- 31st Group Army, Since Saturday’s landslide win by nese state media broadcast of military based in China’s Tsai Ing-wen and her Democratic Pro- live fire exercises and landing drills, southeastern city of gressive Party in Taiwan’s presidential just days after a landslide election win and parliamentary elections, China has by an independence-leaning opposi- Xiamen, opposite warned against any moves towards tion party in Taiwan. Taiwan, had carried independence and said it will defend Taiwan’s defence ministry con- the country’s sovereignty. firmed China’s military recently out the drills in Tsai has said she will maintain carried out “winter exercises”, but “recent days” peace with China, and Chinese state- said that the pictures that accompa- run media have also noted her pledges nied the broadcast were archive video to maintain the “status quo” with China. clips spliced together of drills con- locations and soldiers parachuting The past eight years had been ducted in 2015. “It exaggerates false down from helicopters. The report marked by calm between China and reporting,” the island’s defence min- made no direct mention of the Taiwan Taiwan, after the election of the China- istry said on its website. election. China’s Defence Ministry did friendly Ma Ying-jeou as president in China considers Taiwan a way- not respond to a request for comment. 2008, and his subsequent re-election. ward province, to be brought under its “This is very bad news,” said Steve Ma signed a series of key eco- control by force if necessary. Defeated Lin, first deputy minister of Taiwan’s nomic deals with Beijing and held Nationalist forces fled to Taiwan in Mainland Affairs Council, the minis- a landmark meeting with Chinese 1949 after the Chinese civil war. try in charge of China affairs. President Xi Jinping in November in Late on Wednesday, Chinese state “...We’ll raise our military deploy- neutral Singapore. television said the 31st Group Army, ment, and at the same time we’ll deal Taiwan is one of China’s most based in China’s southeastern city of with it via reasonable dialogue with sensitive political issues, and a core Xiamen, opposite Taiwan, had carried the Chinese side. After all, it’s both concern for the Communist Party, Filipino workers repair damaged electric metres installed on top of a post in Manila yesterday. National out the drills in “recent days”. It did sides’ responsibility to maintain peace trumping even Beijing’s claims in the Economic and Development Authority head Arsenio Balisacan said the Philippines must continuously not give an exact location. across the Taiwan Strait.” South China Sea. China’s military, the invest in improving the country’s energy capacity to attain energy security. Balisacan cited the World The channel broadcast images of A Taiwanese military official, who world’s largest, held live-fire drills in Economic Forum report, which showed that the Philippines scored only 4.2 out of seven in terms of amphibious armoured vehicles plough- spoke on the condition of anonymity, the Taiwan Strait in September, though sufficiency and reliability of power supply, with almost 20 percent of households not having electricity. ing through the sea towards a landing said the broadcast may be “psycholog- Taiwan’s Defence Ministry described site, helicopters firing missiles at shore ical warfare” warning the new Taiwan them at the time as routine. ASIA / AFRICA FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 07

Thai junta accused Second new Ebola case in Sierra Leone of arbitrary detention of end to the epidemic last week. The body before the burial of Marie,” he recurrence remained possible and Magburaka residents contacted student activist World Health Organisation said the told reporters. stressed the importance of a quick, by phone on Thursday told AFP that Officials in Freetown new case was the aunt of 22-year- Ebola is at its most infectious as effective response to potential new locals remained calm but were anx- have urged the public old Marie Jalloh, who died of Ebola people are dying or in the bodies of cases. Jasarevic said that Sierra Leone ious for information about the fresh on January 12. those who have died from the virus. has taken all the necessary steps fol- outbreak. AFP not to panic and to The 38-year-old woman “was a After Jalloh’s case was confirmed lowing the new flare-up. “The community woke up this work together to primary caregiver during (her niece’s) last week, officials in Sierra Leone said “It is a concrete demonstration of morning with the bad news after we avoid any further illness,” WHO spokesman Tarik Jas- 100 people she had contact with had the government’s strengthened capacity were trying to shake off the first shock BANGKOK: A student activist was arevic said. been quarantined, sobering news to manage disease outbreaks,” he said. of Marie Jalloh,” said Tity Kamara, a snatched from a Bangkok street, spread He added that the patient had devel- that came just days after the region Tunis said the latest patient had 36-year-old housewife. “We don’t know bundled into a car and assaulted oped symptoms on Wednesday while thought it had overcome the devas- been taken from her home in the cen- whether we are now safe and it is the by soldiers, his lawyer said yester- she was being monitored at a quar- tating epidemic. tral city of Magburaka to a military health authorities that should re-assure day, in a dramatic act of military antine facility. “The patient is being Officials in Freetown have urged hospital in the coastal capital, Free- us of our safety,” she added. muscle-flexing apparently caught AFP treated now,” Jasarevic said. the public not to panic and to work town, which is fully equipped to handle “I appreciate their work so far but on CCTV. Sierra Leone’s health ministry together to avoid any further spread. Ebola cases. they need to do more.” The activist, Sirawitch Seree- spokesman Sidi Yahya Tunis also con- A week ago, WHO announced the end He added that screenings, including The deadliest outbreak in the his- thiwat, has been a perennial thorn firmed the new case, saying the aunt of viral transmission for the outbreak checkpoints at major roads, were being tory of the feared tropical virus wrecked in the military’s side since it seized FREETOWN: A new case of Ebola has had helped wash Jalloh’s body to pre- which began in December 2013 and installed to check for those displaying the economies and health systems power in 2014 and clamped down been confirmed in Sierra Leone, offi- pare it for an Islamic burial. killed more than 11,300 people, mainly signs of the virus, which is spread via of the three worst-hit west African on freedom of expression and pub- cials said yesterday, the second case “We are expecting other cases par- in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone. the bodily fluids of recently deceased nations after it emerged in southern lic dissent in the kingdom. since west Africa celebrated a declared ticularly from those who washed the But officials warned that a victims or carriers showing symptoms. Guinea 2013. Widely circulated security cam- era footage appears to show three uniformed soldiers grab Sirawitch on a busy street outside his univer- Bangladesh sity late on Wednesday night. The Lantern festival 24-year-old student is then seen holds 14 workers frog-marched into a white car and driven away in front of stunned deported bystanders. He spent the night in military from Singapore custody and was charged Thurs- day at a Bangkok police station with violating a junta ban on protests AFP and political gatherings, Pawinee Chumsri, of Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, said. DHAKA: Bangladesh police said In a video clip filmed Thurs- yesterday that they are holding day at the police station, Sirawitch, 14 of the 26 construction workers also known as Ja New, said he was deported from Singapore late last blindfolded, slapped and kicked year over links with a banned Islam- while in military custody. ist group the government has blamed “He was abducted and phys- for attacks on secular writers. ically assaulted,” Pawinee said, Police initially arrested all 26 repeating the allegations. “This is an men after Singapore deported the enforced disappearance and arbi- group for supporting “armed jihad trary detention. It’s illegal.” Three ideology”, but later released 12 other activists — all members of after finding no evidence against the student-led New Democracy them. Movement — were also arrested “We have primarily found their when they visited the police station connection with ABT,” deputy and face action in a military court. police commissioner Mashruqure The four have been charged with Rahman told AFP, referring to the violating the junta’s ban on public banned Islamist group Ansarul- gatherings for campaigning against lah Bangla Team. a controversial multi-million-dollar He said the detained men were park built by the military that has followers of Jashim Uddin Rahm- been dogged by graft allegations. ani, a firebrand cleric and ABT Mass protests were staged leader who was jailed last month outside of Bangkok’s Thammasat for abetting the 2013 murder of sec- University—where Sirawitch and ular blogger Ahmed Rajib Haider. other New Democracy Movement The government has so far members are students. made no comment on Singapore’s The group has embarrassed the announcement Wednesday that it military with protests and brazen A lantern installation of a dragon is displayed during a lighting test ahead of the lantern festival, in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China. had arrested 27 Bangladeshi con- social media campaigns in defi- struction workers who were being ance of the junta ban. groomed to return to their home country to wage holy war. The Singapore government said the men had “shared jihadi- related material discreetly among 1,175 rhinos killed by poachers in South Africa last year themselves, and held weekly meet- ings and gatherings where they discussed armed jihad”, although they were not planning attacks in AFP “These numbers are hardly cause for celebra- Many of the armed gangs are based in Mozam- would buy it — unless they intend to sell it abroad the city-state. tion or complacency,” said Sabri Zain, director bique, across the border from the Kruger National illegally or they are speculating that interna- A 27th Bangladeshi is serving a of policy at Traffic, the wildlife trade monitor- Park. The soaring price of rhino horn and the tional trade will be legalised.” jail sentence for attempting to flee ing group. “The figures remain unacceptably poaching crisis has sparked a debate on whether The case, bought by two game breeders, came Singapore after learning about the PRETORIA: Nearly 1,200 rhinos were killed by high, and continent-wide the scale of the rhino to legalise sales in an attempt to stifle the lucra- ahead of a meeting in Johannesburg in Septem- arrests of the other group members. poachers in South Africa last year, officials said poaching crisis is spreading.” tive black market trade. ber of the Convention on International Trade in Tensions are high in Bangla- yesterday, a slight decrease on 2014, but another Traffic said poaching in neighbouring Zim- Legally dehorning a rhino would see a farm Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora desh after five more secular bloggers year of carnage fuelled by Asian-led demand babwe and Namibia had increased — meaning owner put the animal under anaesthesia, then (CITES), which could lift the global ban. and a publisher were brutally killed for their horn. last year was the worst for rhino killed across saw off the horn. A South African judge in Novem- “Every rhino horn we cut off, the rhino stays last year. Fewer than 100 rhinos were poached in 2008, Africa for decades. ber lifted a domestic ban on trade in rhino horn, alive, whereas every single rhino that poach- There have also been attacks since when numbers have rocketed. A record South African Environmental Affairs Minister alarming conservationists. ers take the horns from is killed,” Izak du Toit, on minority Sufi and Shia Muslims 1,215 were killed in 2014. Edna Molewa admitted the “onslaught against our The government lost an appeal against the a lawyer for the game breeders, said. and several foreigners have been The slaughter has been driven by demand for rhinos has continued unabated” but she hailed decision this week, but said on Thursday it would “This is simply a legal alternative to the cur- murdered in recent months. their horn in countries such as China and Viet- the toll of 1,175 as a major success. go to the Supreme Court of Appeal. rent illegal killing of animals.” Analysts say Islamist extrem- nam, where they are prized for their purported “We are very pleased to announce that for “It is hard to see any positive conservation Some experts believe the real figures on ists pose a growing danger as a medicinal properties. the first time for a decade the poaching situation benefits from lifting the moratorium on domestic poaching deaths are far higher as many car- long-running political crisis in the The horn is composed mainly of keratin, the has stabilised,” she told reporters in Pretoria. trade in rhino horn,” Colman O’Criodain, wild- casses are never recovered. majority Sunni Muslim but officially same component as in human nails, but it is sold “This is very good news and very good cause life trade expert at the WWF, said. South Africa is said to be home to around secular country has radicalised in powdered form as a supposed cure for can- for optimism.” Molewa said 317 poachers had “There is no domestic demand for rhino horn 20,000 rhinos, some 80 percent of the world- opponents of the government. cer and other diseases. been arrested in 2015, up from 258 in 2014. in South Africa, so it is inconceivable that anyone wide population. China braces for worst cold in 30 years

AFP -26 C. “The wind is very strong—when oil and bread, in one case leave noth- it blows on my face it hurts horribly.” ing but a lone cucumber behind on The National Meteorological Cen- the shelves. tre predicted temperatures would Commercial hub Shanghai and BEIJING: Schools have been sus- drop up to 10 degrees C across much Changsha, capital of the central prov- pended and emergency workers put of the country over the next four days, ince of Hunan, are expected to see their on standby in China as the country according to a statement on its website. coldest temperatures for 30 years, with braces for historically cold weather, It will be below freezing in over 90 lows forecast to hover around -5 C over including 30-year lows in places, the percent of the world’s most populous the weekend. Schools in Changsha government said yesterday. country, according to the official Xin- closed early for the Lunar New Year At 1pm yesterday, it was already a hua news agency. Beijing is forecast holidays, Xinhua reported, as have biting -28 Celsius in Yakeshi in Inner to see a low of -17 C on Saturday, but those in Changzhou, near Shanghai. Mongolia, with Harbin, the capital of some of the most unusual weather pat- But China’s frosty weather this Heilongjiang province in the northeast terns were projected for further south. week could be considered toasty when at -19 C and Changchun in neighbour- Zhejiang province in the east compared to the frigid temperatures ing Jilin at -17 C. declared a yellow alert for the cold in Oymyakon, Russia. Forecasters at “I’ve put on all my clothing, but I — the second-highest on a four-level The Weather Channel say the Siberian still don’t feel warm!” state broadcaster scale. Photos of supermarkets in the village experiences average winter CCTV showed a pedestrian saying in provincial capital Hangzhou posted temperatures of -50 C, and is gener- Altai, in the western region of Xin- online showed mad scrambles of shop- ally considered the coldest inhabited Workers remove snow from railways at a train station in Nanchang, Jiangxi province, China, yesterday. jiang, where temperatures reached pers vying for fresh produce, cooking place on Earth. 08 FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 PAKISTAN Attack raises tough question: Should teachers shoot back?

Reuters took up arms to resist attackers bent and I was preparing myself for death, Pakistan army spokesman General WHO IS TO BLAME? denied involvement, calling the attack on killing them and their students. but then they did not enter the wash- Asim Bajwa said the security guards Four gunmen, all since killed, were “un-Islamic”. The hardline Islamist Some hailed them as heroes, as room and left,” Khan recalled. responded “very well” to the attack involved in Wednesday’s attack, offi- movement was believed to be behind the country digested an attack which Later on in the same building, Hus- before reinforcements reached them. cials said. They used the cover of thick the school massacre just over a year CHARSADDA: Stuck with 15 of his bore similarities to the massacre, in sain fired again at the militants to allow In the wake of the 2014 school mas- fog to scale the campus’ rear walls, ago, and educational institutions are students on a third floor balcony of a late 2014, of 134 pupils at an army-run some of his students to get away, sur- sacre, teachers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa before storming student dormitories an increasingly common target for mil- campus building as gunmen came up school in Peshawar, about 30km from viving pupils told local media. Hussain province, where Peshawar is located, and classrooms and executing peo- itants wanting to frighten the public. the stairs, University Director Moham- where this week’s violence occurred. was subsequently shot and later died were offered weapons training. Yet ple at will. Pakistan has killed and arrested mad Shakil urged Pakistani police Others questioned whether teach- from his wounds. “Kudos to professor some are wary of arming teachers and Some 3,000 students were enrolled hundreds of suspected Taliban mil- arriving at the scene to toss him up a ers should be armed, as many are, Dr Hamid Hussain. Our hero fought encouraging them to engage in battle. at the university, many living on cam- itants in the last year under a major gun so he could shoot back. because it goes against the ideals of bravely n saved many,” Asma Shirazi, a Gun ownership is common in Paki- pus, while hundreds of visitors had crackdown against a group fighting to “We were hiding ... but were the profession. popular talk show host, said on Twitter. stan, owing to liberal licensing laws, arrived to hear a poetry recital to overthrow the government and install unarmed,” Shakil told Reuters, speaking Such a dilemma may have been and particularly so in the semi-autono- commemorate the life of local Pash- a strict interpretation of Islamic law. after four Islamist militants attacked far from the mind of chemistry pro- TEACHERS’ DILEMMA mous tribal belt near the Afghan border tun nationalist hero and pacifist Khan The army said yesterday that the Bacha Khan University in Pakistan’s fessor Hamid Hussain, as he locked Others, too, have credited the where the threat of militant violence Abdul Ghaffar Khan, after whom the attack in Charsadda, near Peshawar, troubled northwest on Wednesday, himself inside a room with colleagues actions of Hussain and Shakil with is high. university is named. was coordinated from across the bor- killing more than 20 people. after gunmen stormed an accommo- helping to prevent the gunmen, armed Jamil Chitrali, president of the Khy- The provincial government der inside Afghanistan, according to “I was worried about the students, dation block on the university campus. with assault rifles and hand grenades, ber Pakhtunkhwa University Teaching declared a day of mourning yesterday its investigations. and then one of the militants came When the assailants broke down from spilling more blood. Staff Association, said more teachers as grieving families buried their dead Army chief General Raheel Sharif after us,” Shakil added. “After repeated the door, Hussain fired several rounds Bacha Khan University also employed were now carrying personal weap- and survivors recalled their ordeal. has called Afghan President Ashraf requests, the police threw me a pistol from his pistol, according to Shabir around 50 of its own guards who, wit- ons, as security had worsened. “Arms Who was to blame remains a Ghani and the US commander of and I fired some shots at the terrorists.” Ahmad Khan, an English department nesses said, fought for close to an hour are against the norms of my profes- mystery. A senior commander of the international forces in Afghanistan As more details of Wednesday’s lecturer taking cover in an adjacent to keep the gunmen isolated and pre- sion,” he said. “I am teaching principles Pakistan Taliban, Umar Mansoor, on to ask their help in locating those it assault emerged, attention focused washroom. vent them from entering the girl’s hostel and morality in the class. How I can Wednesday claimed responsibility, but holds responsible for the assault, army on at least two members of staff who “They carried on heavy shooting as the police and army arrived. carry a gun?” an official spokesman for the group later spokesman Bajwa said on Twitter. Last of varsity massacre victims buried

“I want to tell the terrorists, they can never win, they will lose, we will The country held win, we the followers of peace and a day of mourning not terrorism,” Shah Hussain, father for those who died of the caretaker Fakhr-e-Alam, said. The caretaker’s son, 10-year-old at Bacha Khan Mustafa Kamal, said his father had university, while always told him he must study hard. “I will study hard,” he vowed, “join the relatives questioned army to defend my land and revenge how the attack the death of my father by terrorists.” One of the wounded students, a happened despite a geology major, died overnight and national crackdown his funeral was also held yesterday. The majority of the dead were buried on extremism swiftly on Wednesday in accordance with Muslim tradition. Security forces remained on alert throughout the day, with police foiling AFP a bomb attack at a crowded bus station in Peshawar, some 50km from Char- sadda. Police remained at the gates of the university, which saw a stream of CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Pakistani human rights activists shout slogans against a militant attack on a university during a demonstration in Lahore CHARSADDA, PAKISTAN: Families visits from local politicians and lead- buried the last of 21 people killed by ers throughout the day. yesterday; members of the Awami Workers Party take part in a protest in Lahore; and students taking part in a protest in Lahore to condemn militant gunmen at a university in Paki- Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has the attack at Bacha Khan University in Charsadda. stan’s troubled northwest yesterday, vowed a “ruthless” response to the mas- with security tight as relatives ques- sacre and ordered security forces to tioned how the attack happened despite hunt those behind the attack. Taliban send message they can hit targets at will a national crackdown on extremism. Authorities arrested 50 suspects The country also held a day of from the area surrounding the uni- mourning for those who died at Bacha versity, the district police chief said, as Khan university on Wednesday, with the military spokesman said on Twit- AFP people, most of them children, a year ago. “Staff and Defence and security analyst Talat Masood said residents and officials visiting the ter the attack had been masterminded students were martyred again. The government has the government and military had failed to follow homes of victims’ relatives to pay their by a TTP operative from Afghanistan. failed. It has not been able to provide us security.” through. “This is the same pattern. They are look- respects in the town of Charsadda and Defiant authorities kept schools The government launched a much-vaunted ing for soft targets and it is simply impossible to villages nearby. open in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa prov- ISLAMABAD: As grieving Pakistani parents lament National Action Plan to combat extremism, including provide security to the soft targets, especially those At the home of a chemistry profes- ince — the area where the university the government’s failure to keep their children safe, the creation of military courts and the resumption near the border (with Afghanistan),” he said. “Paki- sor who died firing at the gunmen to is located. “Militants want them shut analysts say the Taliban have sent a message with of executions after a six-year moratorium. stan needs to do a lot more.” hold them back from his students, his down,” provincial education minister their latest campus massacre — a national crack- Together the initiatives are credited with mak- Ajun Khan lost his only son, Asfand, a tenth grader, brother Sajjad Hussain said that the man Arif Khan said. “We wanted to send the down on extremism has failed and they can hit ing 2015 the least deadly in terms of militant attacks in the Peshawar school massacre. “We understand hailed as a hero had been “soft”. “He message that education will continue.” targets at will. since the formation of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Paki- their pain, we understand how one feels when one could not stand the sight of blood,” he Only Bacha Khan university and its The rampage at Bacha Khan university left 21 stani (TTP) in 2007. But the Bacha Khan attack was sends his son to school or university and later receives said. “As a child he would faint when- sister university Abdul Wali Khan in the people dead and shattered the sense of security a message, said Peshawar-based senior analyst and his dead body,” Khan said of the families of the lat- ever he saw blood.” town of Mardan were closed, he said. growing in the troubled northwest, a year after Paki- retired brigadier Saad Khan — that despite the pres- est strike. Around 1,000 people in a nearby In Islamabad around 20 people stan’s deadliest ever extremist attack, a 2014 assault sure “they can hit any target”. Khan said parents of the Peshawar victims met village attended the funeral of a uni- held a prayer vigil, while there were on a school in nearby Peshawar. The killing of young people “brings a lot of pain, yesterday to express their sympathy and to chalk versity caretaker killed in the assault, also two small protests, one of Pashtun “It happened again,” said Zaheeruddin, father despondency and hopelessness, and that arouses out a strategy — such as compulsory military train- claimed by a faction of the Pakistani students. Pashtuns form the dominant of Kashan Zaheer, a ninth grade student who was emotions against the government, the same gov- ing for all civilians. “We are not safe, even parents Taliban, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistani ethnic group in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa wounded in the assault which saw Taliban gunmen ernment which claimed it had broken the back of do not feel safe, we are worried about the future,” (TTP). province. storm the Peshawar school and kill more than 150 the terrorists,” he said. he said. “It is now the people’s war.”

Tears, defiance after attack on Afghan TV workers

AFP from power in 2001. Shrouded in black, of propaganda by the “satanic networks”. senior officials paid mournful tributes At a tearful funeral service for one in a Tolo studio with flower-bedecked of the victims, 28-year-old Tolo video portraits of the seven victims, mostly editor Jawad Hussaini, his family lashed KABUL: Mourners in the Afghan cap- behind-the-scenes staff from the chan- out at the Taliban. ital held emotionally charged funeral nel’s graphics and dubbing departments. “Jawad’s sister is an army officer ceremonies yesterday for seven employ- “This was not just an attack on Tolo, and you (Taliban) must know that she ees of popular TV channel Tolo who but an attack on journalism,” Abdul will take revenge for his brother,” said were killed in a Taliban suicide bomb- Bari Jahani, minister of information his brother, Waseq Hussaini. ing, which rights groups denounced as and culture, said during the memo- Media mogul Saad Mohseni, the a “war crime”. rial service which was broadcast live. chairman of Moby Group which owns Tearful tributes poured in for the The attack came just months after Tolo, also struck a defiant note, saying workers, including three young women, the Taliban declared Tolo and 1TV, “the voice of Afghanistan will not be who were killed on Wednesday in Kabul another private news channel, as legiti- silenced by this incident”. for what the Taliban said was revenge mate “military targets”. The edict was in The deadly assault spotlights the for “spreading propaganda” against the response to their reports claiming that dangers faced by media workers in insurgent group. the group’s fighters had raped women Afghanistan, as the security situation The assault on Tolo, a privately run at a female hostel in Kunduz, after the worsens amid a growing wave of mili- news and entertainment station often group briefly captured the northern city tant attacks. “The targeting of journalists critical of the militants, marks the first in late September last year. reflects a depraved strategy to make major attack on an Afghan media organ- The Taliban rejected the reports as media freedom a casualty of the ongo- People react during the burial of the victims of suicide bomb attack, in Kabul yesterday. isation since the Taliban were ousted fabrications, saying they were examples ing conflict,” Human Rights Watch said. INDIA FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 09

Employees protest Millionaire Varsity bends jailed for life for security but students’ guard murder protests go on AFP NEW DELHI: A court in the south- ern Indian state of Kerala yesterday sentenced a millionaire business- is the student wing of the RSS. man to life in jail for murder after “After taking into account the he rammed his SUV into a security Delhi Chief Minister extraordinary situation in the uni- guard for being slow in opening a Arvind Kejriwal versity, it resolved to terminate the gate, a prosecutor said. punishment imposed on the students Muhammad Nisham, 39, was urged Prime Minister with immediate effect,” a university convicted on Wednesday for pin- Narendra Modi to statement said. ning the guard against a wall with sack his ministers Vice Chancellor P Appa Rao urged his Hummer over a delay in opening the university community to maintain the gate of his apartment complex Smriti Irani and harmony. Slamming Irani’s statement in Trissur in Kerala. Bandaru Dattatreya that a Dalit headed the committee “The court awarded life sen- which expelled the five Dalit students tence for the murder and 24 years over the suicide by including Vemula, 10 teachers quit in jail for other offences,” the pub- Rohith Vemula their administrative posts and joined lic prosecutor involved in the case, the students on protest. C P Udayabhanu, said. Kejriwal visited the campus and Railway employees protest against the seventh pay commission, a report recommended by the Central “He is a repeat offender and we sought the dismissal of Irani and Min- Government regarding the salary structures and pension scheme for the government employees, in are satisfied with the judgement,” IANS ister of State for Labour Dattatreya Mumbai yesterday. Bhanu said. Nisham was also fined whose letters to the HRD ministry eight million rupees ($117,600), on the alleged assault on the ABVP half of which he must donate to leader reportedly forced the univer- the victim’s family. The 50-year- HYDERABAD/NEW DELHI: The sity to suspend Vemula - son of a farm old guard, Chandarabose, was left Hyderabad university yesterday worker - and the others. with multiple injuries in the assault revoked the suspension of four Dalit The Aam Aadmi Party leader also Pathankot attack: NIA raids last January and died after suffer- research scholars, but students con- asked Irani to apologize for “playing ing a cardiac arrest in the hospital tinued to protest for the fifth day over dirty caste politics” over Vemula’s where he was receiving treatment. the suicide of a Dalit student who too suicide. Modi “should dismiss both Prosecutors had told the court had been suspended. the ministers”, he said to applause. six locations in Punjab that Nisham pursued the guard into Addressing the protesting students He demanded that Irani’s name the complex with his Hummer and at the campus, Delhi Chief Minister should be included in the FIR filed squeezed him against a wall before Arvind Kejriwal urged Prime Minister against Dattetreya, the vice chan- IANS before they mounted the attack at shunted out as the superintendent of getting out and beating him with Narendra Modi to sack his ministers cellor and two ABVP leaders. the air base. “Two days after the lie police (headquarters) at Gurdaspur. an iron rod. It is not the first time Smriti Irani and Bandaru Dattatreya In New Delhi, the AAP demanded detector test of Salwinder Singh, we Six Pakistani terrorists — believed Nisham has made headlines. over the suicide by Rohith Vemula. the arrest of Dattatreya, the BJP MP carried out raids at six locations, four to be from the outlawed Jaish-e- And protesting against Human from Secunderabad. NEW DELHI: The National Inves- in Gurdaspur and two in Amritsar,” Mohammed terror outfit — sneaked Resource Development Minister Irani’s BJP ally and Lok Janshakti Party tigation Agency sleuths yesterday an NIA official, requesting anonym- into Punjab from across the border Booker winner “misleading” statement, 10 Scheduled MP Chirag Paswan also demanded raided six places in Punjab’s Gur- ity, said. and took the Punjab Police officer hos- Caste and Scheduled Tribe teachers a probe into a letter written by Dat- daspur and Amritsar towns as part “The locations include the residen- tage before taking away his vehicle. flays Delhi airport quit their administrative roles. tatreya to the HRD ministry ahead of of the ongoing probe into the Jan- tial places of Singh, his friend Rajesh They attacked Singh’s friend and Under attack, the university’s the Dalit research scholar’s suicide. uary 2 terror attack at the air force Verma and his cook Madangopal.” cook, but left the police officer him- executive council decided to revoke “The suicide should be probed base in Pathankot. Singh’s lie detector test was con- self unharmed and untouched, rasing IANS the suspension of four students who by an independent agency, which The places where the raids were ducted by the National Investigation suspicions about his role in the whole along with Rohith were suspended should decide who it should be prob- carried out belong to suspected Punjab Agency (NIA) on Tuesday. apisode. in November after an alleged clash ing. Those found guilty must not be Police officer Salwinder Singh and Singh, at present, is posted The six terrorists later attacked the with an Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi spared, no matter how influential his two companions who were alleg- as assistant commandant of 75th Indian Air Force base in Pathankot, JAIPUR: Booker Prize 2015 win- Parishad (ABVP) leader. The ABVP they are,” he said. edly kidnapped by terrorists hours Punjab Armed Police after being killing seven security personnel. ner Marlon James’s first trip to India turned out to be a bitter one. The Jamaica-born writer poured out his woes as he caught a connecting flight to Jaipur from Delhi. Massacre anniversary Letter threatens James landed in Delhi on Wednesday to participate in the ninth edition of the Jaipur Literature French President’s Festival which began here yester- day. The first Jamaican to win the Booker Prize for his novel “A Brief History of Seven Killings”, James visit on Republic Day described his harrowing experi- ence in a Facebook post. He said he got into a jeep to reach IANS unstructured English. The police another terminal at the Indira Gan- officer said that the letter’s address dhi International Airport but “they indicated it was posted in Chennai won’t let me in because it seems in Tamil Nadu. I don’t have a ticket”. The writer BENGALURU: A letter cautioning Security in Delhi has been tight- became upset that he was asked French President Fancois Hollande not ened to “an unprecedented level” to show proof that he indeed had to visit India for the coming Repub- ahead of the Republic Day celebra- a seat on the connecting flight. His lic Day parade has been received by tions, official sources said earlier. misery went up when he was told the French consulate here, Bengaluru Chief guest Hollande will watch that his hand luggage was eight kil- Police said yesterday. the Republic Day parade on Rajpath, ogrammes heavier and asked to “The letter was handed over by where President Pranab Mukherjee show his ID. the French consulate here to High- will take the salute of the parade. And he learnt to his dismay that grounds police station on January 11,” The French president’s visit to his bags were not going on to the Bengaluru’s Additional Commissioner India comes over two months after plane as they had not been security of Police (East) Charan Reddy said. the terror attacks in Paris in which checked. James had to go back to The single-page letter, with an 130 people were killed. the baggage drop. And now he was Indian map in the background, con- Meanwhile, Goa Police are informed that his bag was over- tains three lines in English language, investigating a letter received at the weight by 12 kg — not eight. “Just warning French President Francois secretariat in Panaji on January 14, like that it went up by 4 (kg)?” the Hollande not to participate in the which threatened Prime Minister disgusted writer asked. Republic Day celebrations in New Narendra Modi and Defence Minis- James felt bad he was asked Supporters of Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) shout pro-freedom slogans as they mark the Delhi on January 26. ter Manohar Parrikar for allegedly about his belt. The fact that he had 26th anniversary of the massacre in Gaw Kadal locality in Srinagar, yesterday. The letter also contains a pursuing anti-beef policies. ‘IS’ was not slept for 27 hours didn’t help. The warning to the French people in scribbled on the threat letter. post got an overwhelming response, Bangladeshi minority refugees to get citizenship Dancer Mrinalini Sarabhai dies at 97

AHMEDABAD: Legendary danseuse and cultural doyen Mrinalini Sarabhai (pictured), who was also a Padma IANS has finalised the standard operating Parganas district, some 50km from and bring his party to power to usher Bhushan awardee, died yesterday at a hospital here procedure for granting long term visas Kolkata. He assured that infiltration in “real change” in the eastern state. following age-related complications, her son said. She to such people. from Bangladesh would be completely With the state assembly polls was 97. Fondly known as ‘Amma’, Mrinalini Sarabhai “Now nobody will be able to har- eradicated. around three months away, the vet- was admitted to a city-based hospital on Wednesday ASHOK NAGAR, WEST BENGAL: ass these refugees,” he said. Rajnath “From fencing to installing flash eran leader hit out at the Trinamool morning after she fell ill. Home Minister Rajnath Singh yes- Singh also hailed the Bangladesh lights, we will take all measures to Congress regime over a host of issues Her son and scientist Kartikeya Sarabhai said: “She terday assured that Bangladeshi government for its assistance in secure the Indo-Bangladesh border so including the “deteriorating” law and (Mrinalini) had an infection which led to the deterio- minorities who have taken refuge in curbing smuggling of fake notes that not a single infiltrator manages order and lack of industry. ration of her health.” India to escape persecution would be and cattle. to enter India,” added the minister. Days after four central ministers The dance exponent’s daughter Mallika Sarabhai granted citizenship. “Be it smuggling of fake currency Launching a stringent attack on including Finance Minister Arun Jait- took to Facebook to announce her celebrated mother’s death. “My mother “Minorities whether Hindus, Sikhs, or cattle, I am not saying completely, West Bengal’s Mamata Banerjee gov- ley praised the Banerjee regime at Mrinalini Sarabhai has just left for her eternal dance,” Mallika, who’s a dancer Christians, whoever, those who have but to a large extent, Bangladesh is ernment, union Home Minister said the Bengal Global Business Summit, too, wrote in a heartfelt tribute to her mother. Mrinalini Sarabhai’s last rites been persecuted in Bangladesh and assisting India in curbing them. Not no one, including police, was safe in Rajnath Singh ridiculed the investment will be conducted at Pethapur village in the district of Gandhinagar, which is taken refuge in India, we have not only only that, Bangladesh is also assisting the state and asserted that the Centre conclave, saying unless the law and the state capital. Pethapur is the hub of the block making industry of Gujarat validated the entry of such people but in extradition (of criminals). would provide any number of central order situation improved, no indus- and Mrinalini often visited there because of her keen interest in handicrafts. also validated their stay in India. This miracle has been possible, forces requisitioned by the Election trialist would want to put in a penny Born on May 11, 1918 in Kerala, she married Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the “We assure you, that time is not only because of the Indian govern- Commission in the upcoming assem- in the state. pioneer of India’s space science programme, in 1942. far when we will provide them with ment’s diplomatic skill,” Rajnath bly polls. He accused the state government Daughter of former member of parliament Ammu Swamimanathan, citizenship,” he said. Singh said addressing a Bharatiya The senior BJP leader called on the of trying to shield those who attacked she spent her childhood in Switzerland and received her first lessons at the The minister said the government Janata Party rally here in North 24 people to vote fearlessly in the polls the BSF. Dalcroze school, an institute of Western technique of dance movements. 10 FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 VIEWS

ESTABLISHED IN 1996

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR HUSSAIN AHMAD [email protected]

EDITORIAL Widening schism The problem with attacking

he UK government’s report on the murder of Russian dissident Alexander Litvinenko says it was probably ordered by Russian America’s ‘billionaire’ class President Vladimir Putin. This is likely to further dent ties with Britain and other Western powers at a time when Moscow’s role is fraud.” “Make college tui- Michael Bloomberg wrote a “preempt the revolutionaries in Syria is acquiring increasing importance. The report into the Plutocrats’ spending tion free and debt free.” “Health big check to the Sierra Club’s and crazies” who would oth- Tprobe, which was headed by a judge, reaffirms that ex-KGB spy Litvinenko care must be recognised as “Beyond Coal” campaign on cli- erwise lead an uprising by the died of poisoning by radioactive polonium-210 used to lace his tea. The on candidates and a right, not a privilege.” Then mate change, a cause Sanders have-nots; this, he says, will there’s “the billionaire class,” as favours — though Bloomberg is enable him and his fellow pluto- Russian was killed in London’s Millennium Hotel where two FSB agents met elections is huge in, We need people “to stand up also spending a ton to promote crats to “escape with our lives” him in 2006. The investigation report blames Andrei Lugovoy and Dmitry and influential, to the billionaire class.” gun control, so maybe Sanders and “get even richer.” Kovtun for the killing that came to viewed as a Cold War-style operation. but not nearly Forbes magazine reports holds that against him. Or maybe the mundane The report came on a day President Vladimir Putin blasted Bolshevik that there were 536 billionaires Reviewing this history, you reality is that what motivates revolutionary and Communist icon Vladimir Lenin for sowing the seeds for as decisive, or as in the United States in 2015, but could almost get the impression a lot of billionaires are their the Soviet Union’s destruction. Responding to a remark about the founder of unidirectional, as the notion that they constitute billionaires have done more own pet notions and personal a “class,” in the sense of an eco- to advance progressive causes causes — pot for Soros, Israel the Communist International, Putin quipped that letting one’s ideas guide a Sanders would nomically self-interested group than Bernie Sanders has. for Sheldon Adelson — not some country’s progress was all right, but Lenin’s views —meant to lead the Soviet have it. Sometimes, that acts as a political unit, is a One way to square these monolithic class interest. Union — brought about its fall. The Russian president talked about a figure figment of Sanders’ ideology, or data with Sanders’ rhetoric Plutocrats’ spending on can- who existed decades ago, but didn’t address an issue that has been directly in fact, the results demonology. would be to say that supporting didates and elections is huge attributed to him. billionaires get Obviously, Sanders is trying the left exonerates billionaires and influential, but not nearly The Kremlin was dismissive of the UK inquiry report, going to the extent confirm that old to conjure the evil spectre of from membership in the billion- as decisive, or as unidirec- of calling it a joke. “More likely it can be the Koch brothers, Charles and aire class, as Sanders defines it. tional, as Sanders would have it. saw about a fool David, who stand accused of The hallmark of the class, Sand- Sometimes, in fact, the results attributed to fine British humour — the and his money. using their combined net worth ers senior adviser Tad Devine billionaires get confirm that old fact that an open public inquiry is based of $80bn to impose a right- told me, “is the use of wealth saw about a fool and his on the classified data of special services, wing agenda through super and power to intervene in the money. unnamed special services, and that the By Charles Lane PACs and other non-trans- political system for one’s own In a recent interview with The Litvinenko verdict which has been made on the The Washington Post parent instruments of political economic self-interest.” the Financial Times, Charles murder probe basis of this flimsy data has been made control. Fair enough: Many, if not Koch bemoaned his inabil- But what are we to make of most, billionaires do, indeed, ity to affect the current chaotic public with the copious use of the words report will lead Warren Buffett (2015 net worth, back conservative, pro-busi- Republican presidential race. to new lows in ‘probably’ and ‘likely’, Putin’s spokesman hirty-six years ago, a per Forbes: $62bn)? No doubt ness candidates and causes. He distanced himself from Russia’s relations Dmitry Peskov said. local gadfly’s column in his endorsement of Clinton Wall Street titan Paul Singer is positions taken by the top two It is not surprising that Moscow a free Vermont weekly over Sanders for 2016 did not an example. contenders, Senator Ted Cruz with the West. has responded with scorn to the probe. argued passionately for endear him to the latter. Still, Yet even Singer agrees with (Texas) and Donald Trump, T“democratic control” of tele- Buffett was an early backer of Sanders that queer marriage expressing particular dismay According to his widow Marina, Litvinenko had named the Russian state for the killing vision, so as to rid the industry Barack Obama’s presidential should be legal, and once set with the latter’s call to tempo- of corporate advertisers who candidacy, and he continues to up a super PAC to support GOP rarily ban Muslim foreigners that was covered extensively in the British believe that “people should be commit class treason by advo- candidates who were sympa- from entering the United States. press and drew international headlines. treated as morons and bom- cating higher income taxes for thetic to it as well. If any Republican epitomises Sections of the report have been barded over and over again top earners. It’s complicated, this issue of the Koch brothers’ libertari- redacted to keep classified information under wraps. London summoned with the same simple phrases George Soros bankrolls left- economic “self-interest.” Does anism, it’s Senator Rand Paul Russian Ambassador over the report. British Prime Minister David Cameron and ideas.” wing organisations worldwide; Elon Musk favour tougher car- (Kentucky), but his presidential was cautiously guarded in his response. He said the UK would have to go on Today, that gadfly, Bernie the marijuana- legalisa- bon regulations and generous campaign has flopped. Sanders, is a US senator, and tion movement received huge electric-car subsidies because, Trump still leads the pack, having “some sort of relationship with Russia” because of the Syria crisis, he’s gaining traction as a chal- amounts of his money, and that like Sanders, he cares deeply unaided by money from any but it would be done with “clear eyes and a very cold heart”. lenger to Hillary Clinton for the of the late Peter Lewis, another about the planet, or because billionaire but himself. What Cameron’s response shows the dilemma his government is in over its Democratic presidential nomi- billionaire. Penny Pritzker, they help make his multibil- propels him is ego, attitude and relationship with Russia in light of the report. Britain has decided not to slap nation — by bombarding people Obama’s secretary of com- lion-dollar stake in Tesla more a relentless populist message sanctions on Moscow. Understandably, it is the foothold Moscow has gained over and over again with the merce, was last seen strolling valuable? — which, in its nuance-free in war-ravaged Syria, that is guiding London’s decision. same simple phrases and ideas. the streets of Havana, promot- Seattle’s Nick Hanauer says bashing of Social Security Putin has again been targeted by a Western power. This is going to For the Bern, no general- ing US investment in communist that he’s funding the higher- “cuts,” trade agreements and isation is too sweeping: “The Cuba. minimum-wage movement and political money, often sounds make things difficult for Moscow and the West alike. While this will lead business model of Wall Street Former New York mayor other anti-inequality causes to copied from Sanders. to increasing Russia’s isolation, Western nations would find themselves hobbled in dealing with Putin and Russia’s geopolitical moves. Medicare for all or Medicare paperwork for all? Quote of the day By Peter Orszag costs can readily be lowered. After all, other to process claims. Then Medicare Advantage and Timothy Ferris countries with mixed private-public systems programmes, which are private insurance plans Bloomberg — including the Netherlands, Switzerland and that currently enroll about 30 percent of Medi- I think that by the end of 2016, Germany — have administrative processes that care beneficiaries, could be required to do the our goal of very seriously cost 25 to 60 percent less than in the US. same. Next, the government could either require Although the Affordable Care Act included or provide incentives for self-insured employer denting Daesh (IS) in Iraq and n making his case for universal health care, some provisions aimed at cutting administrative plans to use the system. Ultimately, the econ- Syria and of trying to have an Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders has reignited costs, much more can be done. The Center for omies of scale would become large enough to impact on Mosul and Raqa will Ia debate over whether the US should have American Progress has assembled several pro- encourage private insurers to adopt the sys- a single-payer system. It would simplify the posals that it estimates could save $40bn a year. tem, too. be achieved. administration of health insurance, but his pro- One step that should be taken immediately This reform would be practical and generate posal is nevertheless ill-advised — not least is to simplify the transaction process involved larger benefits than may be immediately appar- because it’s possible to simplify billing and claims in billing and processing claims. Medicare’s ent. The Medicare administrative process is processing in health care without making such processing costs are relatively low. All health- already regionalised and subject to competition an extreme change. care payments could be gradually moved to among processing contractors. It already includes John Kerry In 2014, the net cost of health insurance in this platform. standards for efficiency and provider educa- the US was almost $200bn, most of which was Such a change could be made in steps. First, tion, and requires transparency in processing. US Secretary of State for billing and related expenses (as opposed to state Medicaid programmes could begin using Instead of Medicare for all, as Sanders pro- things like premium taxes and profits). These regional Medicare administrative contractors poses, we just need Medicare processing for all.

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By Josh Rogin handling of information found on Clinton’s Bloomberg server, Fallon said, the intelligence commu- nity inspector general should stay out of it and let the Justice Department do its work. But McCullough’s letter shows he intends to keep trying to influence the outcome. illary Clinton’s presidential According to the Clinton campaign, the campaign Wednesday accused inspector general and the Republican sen- the intelligence community’s ators have separate agendas in wanting to top oversight official of con- influence the public debate over whether spiring with Republicans in or not Clinton’s e-mail server contained Hthe Senate to leak sensitive information highly classified information. The Republi- about her personal e-mail server. That’s a cans simply want to hurt Clinton’s political risky move, considering that it has produced aspirations, Fallon said. But the inspec- no hard evidence of a conspiracy and the tor general’s move, Fallon said, is part of a accused parties are denying it. campaign to influence a bureaucratic bat- The public dispute between the former tle between the intelligence community Secretary of State and the inspector general and the State Department. of the Intelligence Community reached new The State Department and intelligence heights following Tuesday’s report by Fox agencies disagreed last August over whether News on a letter sent by inspector general I two e-mails found on Clinton’s server should Charles McCullough to Senate Intelligence have been treated as “top secret.” The State Committee Chairman Richard Burr and Sen- Department said the information that the ate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman e-mails contained was not classified when Bob Corker, R-Tenn. In the letter, McCul- the messages were sent, but the intelligence lough stated that he had received sworn agencies said the information was always declarations from two separate intelli- classified and should have been treated as gence agencies that cover “several dozen such. The State Department asked James e- mails” on Clinton’s private server. These Clapper, the director of national intelli- e-mails were determined by these agencies gence, to adjudicate that dispute. to contain information that should have been In November, a Politico report stated treated as secret, top secret, and “SAP,” an that intelligence officials reviewing those abbreviation that refers to “special access two e-mails were leaning towards the State programmes,” which are among the most Department’s opinion. Following that report, sensitive in the government. Burr and Corker wrote to McCullough to ask File picture of Hillary Clinton waving to supporters at a campaign rally. Clinton campaign spokesman Brian Fal- for an update and McCullough responded. Fallon alleges that the timing of the letters is evidence enough of a conspiracy to leak the information. “No one should make such an accusation office has a corresponding problem: It can’t “It looks like Clapper’s office will under- without evidence,” Steven Aftergood, who fend off Clinton’s accusations of partisanship For a major political candidate and cut McCullough,” Fallon said. “McCullough is directs the project on government secrecy and collusion because it is enjoined from trying to litigate this with Clapper and have at the Federation of American Scientists, commenting on political matters. former cabinet official to publicly his own view of these two e-mails upheld.” told me. “If there is evidence of collusion Clinton’s calculation seems clear: By accuse an inspector general of the Burr told me in a short interview Wednes- or partisanship, it should be presented. If framing the controversy over the pri- intelligence community of intentional day that his committee was just following there is no such evidence, the accusation vate e-mail server as a good-faith dispute up with the intelligence community inspec- should not be made.” between two government bureaucracies, she leaking and collusion with their tor general about his progress in getting Whether or not the information in the can divert attention from her own culpabil- political opponents is remarkable, information from the intelligence agen- e-mails is really top secret is unknowa- ity in placing so much sensitive information cies. He denied leaking McCullough’s letter ble because the e-mails are not public, in her own house. But that strategy depends if not unprecedented. McCullough, or working with McCullough behind the Aftergood said. Several reports Wednes- on the State Department standing by her. an attorney and former FBI agent, scenes in any way. day quoted anonymous officials saying the That may be changing, at least in public. was unanimously confirmed for his “I can tell you there’s no conspiracy or information in question was not particularly Whereas in August, department officials said collusion between Bob Corker and I and the sensitive because it referred to public news they were confident their own review of the position in 2011 and received praise inspector general,” Burr said. “The Clinton reports about the US drone programme. e-mails revealed no information marked from senators on both sides of the campaign would be wrong.” That programme is highly classified but classified at the time it was sent, their pub- aisle. Deb Chapman, spokesperson for the often discussed in the press. lic line is now less definitive. intelligence community inspector general’s “CIA considers everything about the “Our FOIA review process is still ongo- office, declined to comment on the Clinton targeted killing programme to be highly ing. Once that process is complete, if it is lon told me in an interview Wednesday that campaign’s allegations, but said that McCul- classified covert action,” Aftergood said. determined that information should be clas- For Fallon and the the campaign believes that McCullough and lough stands by the information contained “But the State Department can consider sified as Top Secret we will do so,” State the Republican senators worked behind in his letter to Burr and Corker, a copy of information in the press to be unclassified.” Department spokesman John Kirby told Clinton team, their the scenes to orchestrate a series of events which Fox News obtained. Even passing on news clippings about me in a statement. Intelligence officials, inability to publicly that would lead to the disclosure of those “Catherine Herridge’s article was spot a classified programme can be considered even inspectors general, are not immune discuss the content declarations. on,” she said, referring to Fox New’s intel- mishandling of classified information, but from politics, both internal and partisan. “It is suspect from the beginning that ligence correspondent. “It’s all accurate.” it’s a case by case evaluation and the lines But Clinton’s team simply cannot prove that of the e-mails is key the intelligence community inspector gen- For a major political candidate and are murky, said Aftergood. Usually, defer- McCullough is leaking against them. Her to their grievance: eral is continuing to reveal materials and former cabinet official to publicly accuse ence is given to the agency that originated campaign can only muddy the waters and surface allegations while the Justice Depart- an inspector general of the intelligence com- the information, in this case the CIA and delay until the FBI finishes its work. If the How can Clinton ment review is going on,” Fallon said. “It’s munity of intentional leaking and collusion another as yet unnamed agency. Clinton campaign decides then to go after defend herself completely fair to suspect that the intelli- with their political opponents is remarka- For Fallon and the Clinton team, their the FBI, it will be picking a fight with an gence community inspector general is not ble, if not unprecedented. McCullough, an inability to publicly discuss the content of the even more formidable opponent. from leaks without operating in good faith.” He provided no attorney and former FBI agent, was unan- e-mails is key to their grievance: How can talking about what hard evidence to support these assump- imously confirmed for his position in 2011 Clinton defend herself from leaks without Josh Rogin is a Bloomberg View col- tions, however. and received praise from senators on both talking about what was on her server? The umnist writing about national security was on her server? Now that the FBI is investigating the sides of the aisle. intelligence community inspector general’s and foreign affairs. Climate numbers tell a story that is stunning

By Jason Samenow Earth’s temperature has surged to new gains. Seas are rising: As glaciers and but also on numerous recent cases of of the strongest El Niños on record, The Washington Post highs six times — in 2015, 2014, 2010, overland ice sheets shed ice and the extreme weather around the world. the eastern Pacific’s Hurricane Patri- 2005, 1998 and 1997 — while the last warming oceans expand, sea level rise Our weather now operates in vastly cia became the strongest hurricane record-cold year was 1908. is accelerating; Nasa says the rate of changed conditions compared with ever measured in the Western Hem- Numerous independent indicators sea level rise has jumped from 1 mil- 50 or 100 years ago, thanks to unre- isphere, with peak winds of 200 mph. or those still unconvinced about corroborate this temperature data, limetre per year 100 years ago to 3 lenting carbon dioxide emissions. In To put an exclamation point on the reality of climate change, painting a consistent and compelling millimetres per year today. The more 2015, carbon dioxide levels passed 2015, a surge of warm air fronting a the year that just ended should portrait of a warming world. the seas climb, the more high tides the symbolic threshold of 400 parts monster storm near Iceland at the end erase any doubt. Climate data Ice is melting: Glaciers around inundate areas that previously flooded per million, which is more than 40 of December briefly pushed the temper- Though Antarctic Ffrom the air, land and water all reveal the world are losing mass at a rate only during big storms. This “nuisance percent above pre-industrial levels. ature at the North Pole above freezing, sea ice extent an indisputable portrait of a warm- “without precedent” in the 21st cen- flooding” — which makes roads impass- Carbon dioxide and other human-gen- some 50 degrees above normal. ing world. tury, according to a survey published able, overwhelms storm drains and erated heat-trapping gases act like a A piece of this storm could be traced has exhibited a On Wednesday, the National Oce- in September from the World Glacier seeps into structures — has increased steroid in the atmosphere, injecting to the weather system that caused a counterintuitive anic and Atmospheric Administration Monitoring Service. a staggering 300 to 925 percent in US extra heat into weather systems and deadly tornado outbreak near Dallas increase in recent and Nasa jointly announced that 2015 Meanwhile, Arctic sea ice is declin- coastal areas since the 1960s, accord- increasing their potential to achieve and that spurred record-setting tem- was the warmest year on record for the ing dramatically. The peak extent in ing to NOAA. new extremes. peratures along the East Coast around years, likely related planet. The previous record, set just February 2015 was the lowest on record, Freshwater is warming: Lake water 2015 unleashed a barrage of Christmas. to changing winds, it 12 months ago in 2014, wasn’t merely while the minimum extent in September temperatures have climbed even faster unprecedented weather events. After a The new year, too, has wasted no broken, it was smashed. ranked fourth-lowest. Depending on than the temperatures of air and oceans record-warm winter devoid of appreci- time in manufacturing mind- bog- is not as sensitive to There’s a saying that numbers numb the season, the ice extent has declined since the 1980s, according to research able snow, California’s April snowpack gling storms. Last week, an Atlantic temperature as Arctic and stories sell, but the latest climate about 10 to 15 percent per decade since supported by the National Science crashed to a pathetic and unheard-of hurricane formed in January for the ice, whose losses, numbers tell a story that is stunning. satellite measurements began in the Foundation and Nasa. More than 60 5 percent of normal. In July, a town first time since 1938. None of these Including 2015, 15 of the 16 warm- late 1970s. Though Antarctic sea ice scientists monitored 235 lakes on six in Iran registered values of heat and individual weather events, by itself, according to Nasa, est years in NOAA’s 136-year climate extent has exhibited a counterintuitive continents for at least 25 years to con- humidity so extreme that the heat index can be said to be evidence of climate are occurring twice as record have occurred since 2000. And increase in recent years, likely related duct this study, the largest ever of its — the metric used to convey what such change. Throughout history, even prior fast as the Antarctic’s 2015 marks the 39th consecutive year, to changing winds, it is not as sensitive kind, published in December. a combination feels like — could not to man’s tinkering, the atmosphere dating to 1977, in which global tempera- to temperature as Arctic ice, whose The weather is getting freaky: The be reliably computed. has conjured up freak storms. But this gains. tures have been above the 20th-century losses, according to Nasa, are occur- fingerprints of climate change can be In October, fuelled in part by striking overall collection is unlikely average. In the past two decades, the ring twice as fast as the Antarctic’s found not only on the air, ice and water, record-warm waters boosted by one to have occurred by chance.

All thoughts and views expressed in these columns are those of the writers, not of the newspaper. All correspondence regarding Views and Opinion pages should be mailed to the Editor-in-Chief. 12 FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 EUROPE Putin ‘probably approved’ Litvinenko killing: UK inquiry

disturbing” but the government did not wanted the pair to be extradited. “Our announce sanctions in response, instead objective will always be to put them Litvinenko, a summoning Moscow’s ambassador to before a criminal court,” it added. prominent Kremlin London for talks. It did, however, impose Litvinenko, an ex-KGB agent turned critic, died in 2006 asset freezes on the two alleged per- freelance investigator who also worked petrators named by the inquiry. for British intelligence, accused Putin aged 43, three weeks There were cries of “Yes!” at the of ordering his killing in a statement after drinking tea High Court in London as the main find- before he died on November 23, 2006. ings were read out. Litvinenko’s wife Owen said there were “powerful laced with radioactive Marina, dressed in black and accom- motives” for the killing. Litvinenko polonium at an panied by her 21-year-old son Anatoly, was seen as “having betrayed the FSB” embraced supporters afterwards. and had regularly targeted Putin with upmarket London She has spent years pushing for “highly personal public criticism”, hotel a public inquiry to be held and had including an accusation of paedophilia. called for sanctions against Russia and Britain’s government announced a travel ban on Putin. the inquiry in July 2014, just days after “I’m very pleased that the words the downing of a Malaysian passenger AFP my husband spoke on his deathbed jet over eastern Ukraine — a tragedy when he accused Mr Putin of his mur- blamed on Russia’s involvement in the der have been proved true in an English conflict in the region — in what was court,” she told reporters outside the seen as a way of punishing Russia. It LONDON: Russian President Vladimir court. She said after the hearing: “I started work in January last year. Brit- Putin “probably approved” the kill- can’t say it is what I hoped for but I ain’s response to the inquiry’s findings ing of ex-spy Alexander Litvinenko really appreciate it.” fell short of the sanctions which some in London, a British inquiry into his Russia dismissed the findings, had called for. agonising death by radiation poison- calling the inquiry “politically moti- Home Secretary Theresa May Marina Litvinenko (right), the widow of ex-Russian spy Alexander Litvinenko, sits by her son Anatoly during ing found yesterday. vated”. “We had no reason to expect stressed the importance of Russia’s role Litvinenko, a prominent Kremlin that the final findings of the politically a press conference in London yesterday, following the publication of the public inquiry into the death of in talks attempting to resolve the conflict critic, died in 2006 aged 43, three weeks motivated and extremely non-transpar- her husband. in Syria in a statement on the inquiry to after drinking tea laced with radioac- ent process... would suddenly become the House of Commons. She said Britain tive polonium at an upmarket London objective and unbiased,” foreign min- Millennium Hotel’s Pine Bar, where has been a key security official since a criminal organisation”. There was would make “senior representations” hotel. Andrei Lugovoi and Dmitri Kov- istry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova they met Litvinenko on November 2008. Polonium-210 is a rare radio- “no evidence” to suggest that either over Moscow’s “failure to cooperate and tun, two Russians identified as prime said in a statement. Lugovoi, now a far- 1, 2006. “The FSB operation to kill active isotope only available in closed Lugovoi or Kovtun had any personal provide satisfactory answers”. suspects by British police, probably right, pro-Putin lawmaker in Russia, Litvinenko was probably approved nuclear facilities. reason to kill Litvinenko and they were Urging Putin and Russia to “make a carried out the poisoning under the described it as “absurd”. by Mr (Nikolai) Patrushev and also by The report, which contained clas- likely to be acting under FSB direction, positive contribution to global security instruction of Russian security serv- Judge Robert Owen, the inquiry’s President Putin,” the report said. sified evidence redacted from the Owen added. and stability,” May added: “They can, ices, the inquiry said. chairman, said he was “sure” that Patrushev is a former director of version made public, said this sug- Shortly after the report was pub- for example, play an important role in Prime Minister David Cameron’s Lugovoi and Kovtun placed polo- the FSB, the successor organisation gested that Lugovoi and Kovtun “were lished, London’s Metropolitan Police defeating Daesh,” she said, using another office called the findings “extremely nium-210 in the teapot at the to the Soviet-era KGB spy agency, and acting for a state body rather than, say, issued a statement stressing they still term for the Islamic State group.

Denmark moves to curb migrants’ rights Hunger tantrums

AFP of Denmark’s human rights policies. expeditious procedure. As a result, is not able to finance more migrants In the Human Rights Council’s first Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmus- nor integrate them into society. review of the country’s rights record sen’s minority government, supported “Denmark’s immigration policy is since 2011, several countries decried in parliament by an anti-immigration decided in Denmark, not in Brussels,” COPENHAGEN: Danish lawmakers Denmark’s tighter migration rules and far-right party that has for 15 years Integration Minister Inger Stojberg yesterday gave a final nod to drastic voiced alarm over rising xenophobia. dictated increasingly restrictive immi- of Rasmussen’s Venstre party has reforms curbing the rights of asylum In Copenhagen, the Danish Speaker gration policies, is assured of winning repeatedly said. seekers as legal and human rights of parliament presented the bill yes- a January 26 parliamentary vote. The confiscation of migrants’ val- experts castigated Copenhagen for terday in its final form to the assembly Fearing a domino effect across uables has been the reform that has turning its back on its international for its second reading, and was a last Europe, the UN refugee agency UNHCR dominated international headlines. commitments. chance for lawmakers to demand has decried the bill, saying it “could The bill allows Danish author- The new law backed by the coun- changes. Just one request was presented fuel fear (and) xenophobia”. ities to seize asylum seekers’ cash try’s right-wing government would and swiftly rejected by legislators, as a Once a champion of refugees’ rights, exceeding 10,000 kroner ($1,450), as delay family reunifications, confiscate majority have already agreed to back Denmark would be in violation of the well as any individual items valued at migrants’ valuables and make already the bill in its existing form following European Convention on Human Rights, more than 10,000 kroner. Wedding stringent permanent residency require- thorny negotiations. the UN Convention on the Rights of rings and other items of sentimen- ments even tougher. “The big legislative work... has the Child, and the UN Refugee Con- tal value are exempt. Danish Foreign Minister Kris- already been done,” said University vention, the UNHCR concluded in a Legal experts have however voiced tian Jensen, meanwhile, appeared of Copenhagen political science pro- January report. more alarm over the measures, which before the UN yesterday for a review fessor Kasper Moller Hansen said the Unfazed, Copenhagen maintains it make it harder to obtain family reuni- fications and residency permits. Copenhagen wants to increase from one year to three years the wait- ing period for war refugees before they can apply to bring over their family members. Amnesty International’s deputy director for Europe, Gauri van Gulik, denounced a “discriminatory prac- tice” in singling out refugees already traumatised by war. Undeterred, Ras- mussen has suggested Denmark may seek a revision of the UN Refugee Three-week-old baby giraffe “Mufaro” nibbles on a tree yesterday Convention if the migrant crisis “con- tinues or gets worse”. at the Opel-Zoo in Kronberg near Frankfurt Main, western Germany. In a January 15 letter to Stojberg, the Council of Europe’s commissioner for human rights, Nils Muiznieks, said the issue of family reunifications raises “issues of compatibility with Arti- cle 8 of the European Convention on Kosovo Serb leader jailed Human Rights which protects the right to respect for one’s family life.” The bill “could also infringe on the over wartime murders rights of children to live within their family environment, as prescribed by the United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of the Child.” Reuters against civilians. He was cleared of Home to 5.6 million people, Den- two other counts. Judge Roxana Comsa mark registered 21,000 asylum of Romania said Ivanovic had been Migrants and refugees queue to receive food as they wait to cross the border from Greece to Macedonia applications in 2015, making it one part of a group of Serb paramilitary near Idomeni yesterday. Some 2,000 migrants began crossing into Macedonia in freezing temperatures as of the top EU destinations per cap- MITROVICA: A Serb leader in Kos- and police forces that rounded up the country conditionally reopened its border with Greece after closing it temporarily. ita for migrants. ovo was found guilty yesterday of war Albanian families in Mitrovica in April crimes linked to the killings of four 1999 and separated a group of men, ethnic Albanians during the 1998- of whom four were then shot dead. 99 war and jailed for nine years, in a The evidence did not prove he verdict condemned by Serbia. ordered the killings or participated Cameron optimistic of February EU deal Known as a moderate among Kos- in the actual shooting, the judge said. ovo Serb politicians, Oliver Ivanovic But “Oliver Ivanovic was aware of the had for years been one of the chief operation of expelling and killing civil- interlocutors for Nato, United Nations ian ethnic Albanians.” He wore a blue AFP the February European Council. I would like that,” “Anything that allows us to simplify the organ- and European Union officials based uniform and was armed, Comsa said. Cameron told an audience of billionaires and glo- isation of Europe, yes. Anything that throws into in Kosovo after the war. “On that day he willingly com- bal leaders in the ski resort. doubt the foundations of the European project or He was arrested two years ago in plied with the plan, knowing that it Cameron has said he wants to land a deal with the eurozone, no.” Valls said Cameron was unlikely connection with war crimes including would result in the killings,” the judge DAVOS: British Prime Minister David Cameron his fellow EU leaders by February so that he can to win over fellow EU leaders by the time of their the murder and expulsion of civil- told the court in Mitrovica. “Victims said yesterday that he was optimistic of securing campaign to stay in the bloc ahead of a referendum February 18-19 summit in Brussels, at which France ians during and immediately after were taken in front of the their fam- a deal in February to reform the European Union on membership, which he has promised to hold by will be represented by President Francois Hollande. the war in the ethnically-divided ilies and later were executed.” after France warned that his demands could not the end of 2017. French Prime Minister Manuel Valls Negotiations on London’s demands only started town of Mitrovica, where he lived Serbia, which does not recognise be met at any price. said earlier yesterday that a British EU exit would be a short time ago, Valls pointed out, though he still and worked. its former southern province as sover- As attention at the annual gathering of the rich and a “tragedy”, but warned that Cameron’s demands hoped a solution could be found in February. A panel of EU judges, part of an eign, condemned the verdict. “There powerful in Davos, Switzerland, turned to the spec- for reform could not be met at any price. In contrast to France’s downbeat assessment, EU mission handling sensitive cases is no lawyer that could have changed tre of a so-called Brexit, Britain got warmer words A British EU exit would be “a very bad thing,” Cameron received encouragement from Germany of war crimes and corruption in Kos- the political determination to humil- from EU powerhouse Germany and the Netherlands. Valls told reporters in Davos. “There needs to be a and the Netherlands. Germany’s veteran Finance ovo since it declared independence iate and punish the whole of Serbia,” “I very much hope that we can, with the good deal, but not at any price,” the French prime min- Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble warned of the dan- in 2008, found 62-year-old Ivanovic said Marko Djuric, senior official for will that is clearly there, reach an agreement at ister said. ger a Brexit would present to the EU. guilty of one count of a war crime the Serbian government on Kosovo. AMERICAS FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 13 Washington braces Anti-abortion protest for snow storm

will be a threat to life and property,” the threat of this storm seriously and Washington and NWS said. “Travel is expected to be take necessary precautions now to severely limited if not impossible dur- ensure they are prepared for travel neighbouring cities ing the height of the storm tonight and disruptions and possible power out- including Baltimore on Saturday.” ages during a cold weather period,” Heavy snow was expected across he said. Residents were already flock- could see up to two 15 states, according to the Weather ing to supermarkets for essentials. feet (61cm) of snow Channel, which reported that more The NWS reported that there was than 70 million people were under “uncertainty” in snowfall through accumulate in a short some sort of winter weather advi- early tomorrow in the corridor time as a result of the sory as of yesterday morning. stretching from New York City to Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser Boston, which saw massive amounts monster storm, which tweeted that she would declare a “snow of snowfall last winter. was also expected to emergency” effective today morning However, New York Mayor Bill de generate fierce winds at 9:30am (1430 GMT) and that city Blasio said that his city was assuming schools would be closed. it would get up to eight to 12 inches, The city was already struggling as he issued a hazardous travel advi- after evening flurries on Wednesday sory for the weekend. left traffic at a standstill, even snaring “We’re bracing for the first big AFP President Barack Obama’s motorcade, storm of the winter. I want to let my which spent more than an hour nav- fellow New Yorkers know we’re pre- igating the icy streets from Andrews pared, the agencies here are ready for Air Force Base in suburban Maryland what’s coming up ahead,” de Blasio WASHINGTON: Residents of the east- to the White House — normally a trip said. “At this moment the forecast is ern United States braced yesterday of 20-25-minutes. still unclear, but there’s an increasing for a major snow storm that threat- Virginia state police tweeted that potential for a major winter storm this ens to bury Washington, which was troopers responded to “767 crashes weekend. The latest forecast shows already reeling from a mere dusting & 392 calls for disabled vehicles snow beginning early tomorrow and that caused massive traffic snarls. Wednesday, majority in #NOVA,” an continuing through Sunday.” The National Weather Service abbreviation for Northern Virginia. He said more than 575 salt spread- (NWS) issued a blizzard watch stretch- One person was confirmed dead ers would be pre-deployed yesterday ing from the Washington area, which in the crashes and a state trooper was evening and that the city had 303,000 was due to see the first snowfall today, struck and sustained minor injuries in tonnes of rock salt on hand. South of up to New York, which could catch the a separate incident, local ABC affili- Washington, “significant icing is likely tail end of the storm as the weekend ate WJLA reported. for portions of Kentucky and North progresses. If the blizzard dumps as much snow Carolina,” NWS said. Washington and neighbouring in Washington as predicted over the The frigid weather marks a stark cities including Baltimore could see weekend, it could surpass a record departure from what has otherwise up to two feet (61cm) of snow accu- set in 1922 by a storm that dumped been a mild winter along the eastern mulate in a short time as a result of 28 inches over three days and killed seaboard. On Christmas Eve, the NWS the monster storm, which was also 100 people after a roof collapsed at reported that temperatures in New expected to generate fierce winds, a theater. York’s iconic Central Park peaked at An anti-abortion activist holds a placard during a protest outside of a Planned Parenthood centre forecasters said. Virginia Governor Terry McAu- 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 Celsius), “Heavy snow and blowing snow liffe declared a state of emergency the warmest ever for the day since construction site in Washington, DC, yesterday. The protest comes a day ahead of the annual March for Life. will cause dangerous conditions and yesterday. “All Virginians should take records began in 1871.

Colombia frees first FARC Political fallout from Michigan water crisis spreads rebels under peace process Reuters in an interview with CBS. Flint, under a state-appointed Flint,” Weaver said later on CNN about water system that needs to deal with “If I were a parent up there, I would emergency manager, switched to the EPA’s response. it. We’re throwing as much assistance be beside myself that my kid’s health Flint River water in April 2014 from In a speech on Tuesday, Snyder as possible at the lead problem ... The could be at risk,” Obama said after the Lake Huron supply that Detroit said federal, state and local leaders residents and particularly the poor AFP WASHINGTON/DETROIT: US Pres- touring a car show in nearby Detroit. uses to save money. had failed residents. He asked Michi- need help to deal with it.” ident Barack Obama pledged to offer Facing protests, lawsuits and calls Complaints about the water began gan lawmakers to authorize spending Also yesterday, Snyder appealed support for the drinking water cri- for his resignation, Michigan Governor within a month of the move. But Flint on diagnostic tests, health treatment Obama’s denial over the weekend BOGOTA: Colombia said yesterday sis in Flint, Michigan yesterday and Rick Snyder, a Republican, apologised did not return to Detroit water until for children and adolescents, replace- of a federal major disaster declara- that it has freed 16 FARC guerril- environmental regulators were set to to the city’s residents on Tuesday and October 2015 after tests showed ele- ment of old fixtures in Flint schools tion saying Flint faces a long-term las pardoned in peace negotiations provide Congress with information called for the state to spend $28m on vated levels of lead, which can cause and day care centers and a study of threat and that such an order could with the leftist rebels, as the two about their role. fixes. The Michigan House quickly brain damage and other health prob- the city’s water pipes. bring additional help. On the same sides move toward a deal to end Blame is swirling after a switch approved Snyder’s funding request lems, in Flint tap water and in some Snyder, who has faced questions day Obama rejected the disaster dec- their half-century conflict. in the water supply to the financially on Wednesday. children. Corrosive water from the river, about how quickly he acted after learn- laration, he signed an emergency The jailed rebels, the first out strapped city of 100,000 north of The US Environmental Protection known locally as a dumping ground, ing about the water contamination, order for Flint. of a group of 30 to be pardoned, Detroit led to elevated levels of lead Agency, while saying it was review- caused more lead to leach from Flint released 274 pages of Flint-related A group of bipartisan lawmakers were released in a goodwill ges- in drinking water. ing its handling of the crisis and could pipes than Detroit water did. emails from 2014 and 2015 on Wednes- including Michigan Republican Fred ture to reciprocate for a unilateral “What is inexplicable and inexcusa- have acted faster to inform the state “This is something nobody should day, ranging from press releases to staff Upton, of the US House Energy and ceasefire declared by the Revolu- ble is once people figured out that there of what measures it should take, also have to deal with. Everybody should memos and planning notes. Commerce Committee, wrote last week tionary Armed Forces of Colombia was a problem there and that there blamed the state on Tuesday. It said have clean water,” Flint Mayor Karen The governor’s then chief of staff to EPA head Gina McCarthy, request- (FARC) in July, said the office of the was lead in the water, the notion that the agency’s oversight was hampered Weaver said in Washington. told Snyder in a September 26 email, ing a briefing about Flint. That briefing government’s high commissioner immediately families weren’t notified, by “failures and resistance at the state “They need to be much more “We can’t tolerate increased lead lev- to congressional staffers was sched- for peace. things weren’t shut down,” Obama said and local levels.” aggressive in what’s going on with els in any event, but it’s really the city’s uled for today. The unilateral ceasefire has fos- tered “a reduction in violence and advances in the (peace) process,” it said in a statement. The jailed guer- rillas were serving prison terms for Morales celebrates 10 years in office Top US celebrities back rebellion. President Juan Manuel Santos’s government pardoned them on November 22. ‘Dump Trump’ campaign Under the terms of their release, the rebels — nine men and seven women freed from two Bogota pris- ons — must promise not to re-enter AFP and unequal air time and by refusing the FARC. The FARC welcomed the to investigate, interrogate or condemn move as a “positive gesture,” but called it appropriately.” on the government to also free 80 Trump announced his bid for the other rebels with health problems. NEW YORK: Prominent actors, writ- White House last June, dominating The peace talks in Havana ers and thinkers joined a “Stop Hate the news cycle of the presidential race have made several key advances Dump Trump” campaign to denounce ever since with insults slamming Mex- in recent months, and the two sides the billionaire Republican presiden- icans and illegal immigrants, and a have set a deadline of late March to tial frontrunner, saying he is a threat call for a ban on Muslims entering sign a final peace accord—though to the United States. the United States. the FARC have warned that “sub- Actors Harry Belafonte, Kerry The website said it united peo- stantial hurdles” remain. Washington and Jane Fonda, film- ple as diverse as worker movement Negotiators announced Tues- maker Jonathan Demme and leaders, actors, teachers, farmers, stu- day that they have asked the United intellectual Noam Chomsky are dents, poets and heads of companies. Nations to monitor the eventual end among those lending their support “We believe Trump is a grave of the conflict and oversee the dis- to the drive to prevent Donald Trump threat to democracy, freedom, human armament of the FARC. getting into the White House. rights, equality and the welfare of The Colombian conflict, which “We are offering Americans a our country and all our people,” the has killed more than 220,000 peo- chance to be heard and engage in campaign said. ple and displaced six million, has action, as Trump’s campaign gains “History has shown us what hap- over the years drawn in right-wing momentum even as he increases his pens when people refuse to stand paramilitaries, drug traffickers and hateful and divisive rhetoric,” said against hate-filled leaders. We pledge several leftist rebel groups, of which playwright Eve Ensler, one of three ourselves to speak out in every way Bolivian President Evo Morales (centre) takes part in a traditional ceremony celebrating his 10 years the FARC is the oldest and largest cofounders. possible against the politics of hate remaining. A rival rebel group, the in office, at the pre-Inca archeological site of Tiwanaku, Bolivia, 71km from La Paz, yesterday, Morales “We also intend to put the media and exclusion he represents.” National Liberation Army (ELN), took office on January 22, 2006 after defying centuries of discrimination against Bolivia’s indigenous and political institutions on notice that Nearly 1,200 people had added has held exploratory talks with the communities to win a landslide election victory. He has since presided over a period of robust economic they are accountable for normalizing their signatures to the campaign government but has yet to join the growth and transformative changes for the long-suffering indigenous majority. Trump’s extremism by treating it as within hours of it going live on peace process. entertainment, by giving it inordinate Wednesday. www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

PAGE | 15 QE 8,584.01 -105.36 PTS PAGE | 15 Greek PM accepts DOW 15,928.71 +161.97 PTS ECB holds key rates partners’ demand FTSE100 5,773.79 +100.21 PTS unchanged amid for IMF role in bailout BRENT $29.37 $1.49 market volatility

FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 • 12 Rabia II 1437 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar

Qatar and Mexico to deepen economic cooperation further

President of Mexico addresses business heads at Qatar Chamber meet

By Sachin Kumar The Peninsula

DOHA: Economic cooperation between Qatar and Mexico will deepen further said Enrique Pena Nieto, President of Mexico yesterday speaking at ‘The Qatar - Mexican Business Forum’. He expressed hope that both Qatar Minister of Transportation H E Jassim Seif Ahmed Al Sulaiti and Qatar Airways Group and Mexico continue their economic growth Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker inaugurating the new aircraft at the Bahrain Airshow. while taking advantage of the existing bilat- eral relations. Enrique Pena Nieto, President of Mexico, addressing the Qatar–Mexico Business Minister of Energy and Industry H E Forum, in Doha, yesterday as Qatar Chamber Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Sada was also Qatar Executive’s Gulfstream Thani looks on. Pic: Salim M/The Peninsula present in the forum that was organised by Qatar Chamber. The president said the forum represents He also pointed out that Mexico seeks responsibility on business owners from both on display at Bahrain show also a direct opportunity to learn about the to generating 35 percent of total electricity sides to work together to explore invest- economic opportunities in both countries, from clean sources by 2025 and has a $14bn ment opportunities and the mechanism of he added. He called on Mexican business- investments plan to develop and expand its benefiting from capacities and advantages men to explore investment opportunities in gas network. Electricity network is also in of each side. The Peninsula is the global launch customer. Qatar and enter into the Qatari market as an need of massive investment to develop it in Three cooperation agreements were As the world’s largest and fastest civilian air- attractive and promising investment mar- order to increase electricity’s production. signed between Banco de Mexico and each craft, the Gulfstream G650ER is one of the most ket, especially with regard to infrastructure Addressing the forum, Qatar Cham- of Qatar National Bank, Commercial Bank sought-after business jets thanks to its phenom- sector, adding that Qatar is growing in all ber Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim and Doha Bank on the sidelines of the forum. DOHA: Qatar Executive, Qatar Airways’ cor- enal range, industry-leading cabin technology sectors. He said that his visit to Qatar is an Al Thani expressed hope that the visit of Ibtihaj Al Ahmadani, Qatari Business- porate jet division, yesterday revealed its new and unparalleled cabin comfort. The Qatar Exec- opportunity to enhance relations between the Mexican president and the accompa- women Forum chairperson and Qatar Gulfstream G650ER and officially welcomed the utive G650ER aircraft can fly non-stop from the the two sides. Mexican Secretary of Energy, nying delegation to Qatar would achieve its Chamber board member, expressed hope that aircraft into the fleet with a ribbon-cutting cer- Middle East to North America or from destina- Pedro Joaquin Coldwell, reviewed the eco- goals and help in promoting economic and there will be fruitful cooperation between emony at the Bahrain International Air Show. tions in Asia to Africa – farther, faster than any nomic developments in his country, saying commercial cooperation between business Qatari businesswomen and their Mexican The aircraft was inaugurated by Minister other jet of its kind – and is perfectly suited for that Mexico has seen many economic devel- owners in both countries. counterparts, stressing that there are sev- of Transportation H E Jassim Seif Ahmed Al those whose travel needs include flying half- opments in several areas, particularly with Sheikh Khalifa said the presence of the eral areas of cooperation and exchange of Sulaiti and Qatar Airways Group Chief Exec- way around the globe. regard to mining and energy sector. Mexican president at the forum places more expertise. utive, Akbar Al Baker. Al Baker said: “We are Meanwhile, Qatar Airways celebrated its one delighted to reveal the Gulfstream G650ER here year anniversary of A350 operations by host- at the Bahrain International Airshow. It is with ing royal guests, media and trade partners at enormous pride that we welcome the indus- its dedicated chalet on the first day of Bahrain Saudi to grant try’s most advanced business jet into our fleet. International Airshow. At the event were Qatar’s Barclays bank cuts 1,200 jobs We look forward to offering our valued and Minister of Transportation Jassim Al Sulaiti; Qatar discerning customers the opportunity to expe- Airways Group CEO Akbar Al Baker; President & first licence rience this new-generation aircraft, the next CEO of Airbus, Fabrice Brégier; Chairman of the AFP spokesman, are the first round of cutbacks time they fly with Qatar Executive.” Qatar Civil Aviation Authority Abdullah Nasser unveiled by new chief executive Jes Staley, in aviation It was the first time the jet has been show- Turki Al Subaey; Qatar’s Ambassador to Bah- and come on top of 7,000 jobs cut since 2014. cased to the public since it was handed over rain, Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Saud The latest cull will fall mostly on Asia, where liberalisation to Qatar Executive by Gulfstream at its head- Al Thani; Director General of General United LONDON: Troubled British bank Barclays Barclays will shut offices in Australia, South quarters in Savannah in December 2015. This Arab of Emirates Civil Aviation Authority, Saif announced a new round of job cuts, axing 1,200 Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand aircraft is the first of an order by Qatar Exec- Mohammed Al Suwaidi and; Director General positions at its investment banking division, and the Philippines, and cover those countries MANAMA: Saudi Gulf Airlines is set utive for up to 30 business jets, including its of Qatar Aeronautical College, Sheikh Jabor bin exiting Russia and closing offices across Asia. from other locations. Barclays will also exit to obtain regulatory approvals to all-new G500 and G600, for which the airline Hamad Al Thani. The job losses, confirmed by a bank Russia and handle that country from London. launch flights within the kingdom by the end of March, a top official at Saudi Arabia’s aviation watch- dog said yesterday. Should the licence be granted to the privately-owned airline, it Ashghal implements new electronic application would be the first to be awarded under plans to liberalise the king- dom’s aviation market. The Peninsula follow-up and archiving processes for repetitive manual tasks such as sign- Ashghal designed this new appli- in order to create a developed work “We expect them to fly end of the agendas of the meetings. ing or commenting, by enabling the cation in collaboration with “Ever environment. Ashghal also works on March, early April,” Abdulhakim The implementation of this new committees’ members to electroni- Team-MEA” company. Ashghal was bringing electronic systems in all of the Altamimi, assistant president for electronic system significantly reduces cally sign documents consisting of a keen to design an application that services it provides to its stakeholders. safety, security and air transport at DOHA: The Public Works Authority the amount and cost of paper doc- single page or several pages, in addi- is comprehensive and easy to apply An important example of those systems the General Authority of Civil Avi- ‘Ashghal’ has started applying an inno- uments used, by converting the tion, it enables them to electronically and use by everyone, in line with the is the system for buying tender docu- ation (GACA), said on the sidelines vative electronic system specialised committees’ agendas, which used to write notes and comments. Qatari e-government’s vision which ments electronically which enhances the of the Bahrain Airshow. in managing the meetings of the ten- be prepared manually, into templates It enhances control over data integ- encourages all of the country’s sec- accuracy and transparency of the ten- Only national carrier Saudi Ara- ders and auctions committees. This that can be filled-in electronically. This rity by applying a secure system that tors, authorities, and organisations to ders, as well as, the development of their bian Airlines and budget operator advanced electronic system is respon- will ease the process of preparing and only authorises committees that have adopt modern technology to achieve database in terms of content, accuracy, National Air Services currently serve sible for preparing meeting agendas reviewing those agendas. It will accel- permits to sign documents and write real benefits for everyone, whether on report quality, and ease of access. Those a domestic market of about 27 mil- and signing the tenders committees’ erate the workflow by minimising the comments. The new system enables the internal level of those organisa- systems are being implemented in line lion people. Foreign carriers can meeting minutes electronically instead number of stages needed to prepare the secretariat of committees to know tions or in enhancing interaction and with the authority’s strategy which aims only fly in and out of Saudi Arabia of preparing them on papers and sign- work agendas and sending them elec- the attendance and absence of mem- coordination among them. to exploit modern electronic systems to and not within the country. ing them manually. This will save time tronically to committees’ members for bers through a text message or e-mail, Ashghal implements several elec- achieve organisational efficiency and The Saudi authorities began and effort, in addition to enhancing the reviewing at any time and in any place. which will improve the sharing of infor- tronic programmes and applications in support the country’s vision to develop accepting applications to operate effectiveness, efficiency, and ease of The new system also reduces the mation and enhance cooperation. the management of its internal processes the e-government. internal flights back in 2012. BUSINESS FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 15

Qatar construction market to remain robust Deutsche Bank’s results

struction of new infrastructure that in Qatar to the GCC rail network at the their part to ensure major schemes are Pearl GTL Project received the distinc- sends shares will be used for football’s FIFA 2022 Saudi border. Project client Qatar Rail completed to the highest quality. To tion in 2012, with Qatar Foundation’s Qatar continues World Cup. prequalified 15 consortiums in late ensure such stringent quality stand- Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies Project into tailspin to award major Qatar’s World Cup preparations July to bid for the design-and-build ards are maintained, the MEED Quality replicating the achievement last year. are entering a new phase, with some contract. The tender is expected to Awards for Projects, in association with “The GCC is home to some of the contracts for the contracts already awarded for the con- be released between the last quarter Mashreq has launched its latest search world’s most impressive and unique FRANKFURT: Shares in construction of new struction of the planned facilities, such of 2015 and the first quarter of 2016. for the Gulf’s highest quality projects. buildings, and MEED’s awards pro- Deutsche Bank plunged as the Al Bayt stadium in Al Khor and The construction sector remains Leading business intelligence firm gramme is designed to recognise the more than nine percent on infrastructure the upgrade of the existing Khalifa Sta- one of the brightest spots for the Gulf MEED has announced the launch of highest quality developments leading the stock exchange yester- dium which will increase its seating states, where $2.65bn-worth of projects the 2016 edition of the MEED Qual- the projects market in Qatar, and the day following a disastrous capacity to 60,000. Another stadium are underway or in the pipeline. ity Awards for Projects, in association rest of the region. It has distinguished performance last year, high- is up for bid in Education City. Lusail Although lower oil prices may con- with Mashreq, the region’s only awards itself as the premier recognition pro- lighting the magnitude of the The Peninsula Stadium, the largest of the stadiums tinue to be a challenge, ongoing projects programme that recognises project gramme in the projects market because task facing its new chief exec- that will be built, is in its early stages. will have enough impact to stimulate excellence and benchmarks best prac- it evaluates the outcome of the con- utive John Cryan. Meanwhile, the major contracts for economic growth and help alleviate tice in project delivery. Two of Qatar’s struction process, rather than the Deutsche Bank shares Doha’s metro network and the express- the concerns of the industry by replen- flagship projects have won the high- process itself. MEED is proud to have plunged 9.5 percent to an DOHA: Of all the countries in the GCC, way programme are also progressing. ishing diminishing order books. light coveted MEED Quality Project created an independent judging proc- intraday low of €16.03 in Qatar’s construction market to be the Another huge project that will be ten- This could only mean that the list of the Year, the only country to have ess, with the help of the Societies of late morning trade, the big- most robust in 2016, as it continues to dered soon is the regional rail network of completed schemes will continue to achieved the feat in the six-year his- Engineers across the GCC,” said Richard gest loser on the blue-chip award major contracts for the con- that will link Doha and other centres grow, and thousands of teams will play tory of the awards programme. The Thompson, Editorial Director, MEED. DAX 30 index. Late Wednes- day, Deutsche Bank said it expected an overall loss of €6.7bn ($7.3bn) for 2015 as a result of a total €12bn in charges, the lion’s share of Triad brings Sage which was made up of liti- gation costs. Deutsche Bank is cur- rently mired in a tangle of solutions to Qatar around 6,000 lawsuits. In May, it was fined a record $2.5bn for its involve- ment in rigging interest rates. The Peninsula them get the best out of Sage’s excep- It has also faced probes by tional Sage X3, Sage 300 and Sage CRM Swiss authorities for sus- solutions,” said Triad’s Director of Busi- pected price fixing on the ness Development Shobha Moni. precious metals market, and DOHA: Triad Software Services, an Triad’s expansion coincides with US investigators have looked award winning partner of Sage Mid- increased Qatari interest in Sage’s at its Moscow branch on dle East, has announced its expansion innovative ICT offerings for SMEs. “I suspicion of possible involve- into Qatar. Triad’s Doha office, situated congratulate Triad Software Solutions ment in money laundering. in Jaffco Building on the C-Ring Road, for its expansion into Qatar. Triad is The group’s new chief would offer Sage ERP X3 and Sage 300 an experienced Sage partner that has John Cryan — who took up ERP support to existing clients while won awards from our business, and his position last July —has also gearing up for new project activity. has an excellent reputation in the mar- pledged a sweeping culture “We are delighted to have expanded ket. Triad’s move to the country will change within the bank, but our operations to Qatar. Triad’s vision be beneficial to Sage clients there who investors are worried that has always been to offer excellent serv- will now be able to rely on a knowl- the litigation costs will still ice with a hands-on approach. Our edgeable and committed partner on hit profitability for years to new Doha office will help us be nim- their doorstep,” said Sage Middle East’s come. ble, flexible and constantly available Regional Director and Sage X3 Middle to our clients in the country, and help East’s Vice President Reggie Fernandes. Officials at the event.

Investors rush for UK buy-to-let ECB holds key rates unchanged amid market volatility homes ahead AFP But analysts said they expected him turmoil,” the expert said. of tax hike to keep the door open for more stimu- And “he might hint that the balance lus later, in the face of recent financial of opinion on the governing council is market turmoil. moving in favour of (those) who wanted LONDON: Investors are look- FRANKFURT: The European Central At its last meeting in December, to expand the QE programme more ing more urgently for buy-to-let Bank held its monetary policy steady the ECB had cut its key “deposit” rate decisively last month.” properties in Britain ahead of the at its first meeting of 2016 yesterday, by a modest 0.10 percentage point to According to the minutes of the introduction of a tax hike aimed at but is expected to keep the door open minus 0.30 percent and extended the December meeting, the 25-member cooling one engine of the country’s for more stimulus later, in the face of length of its asset purchase programme governing council appeared to have housing market, a survey showed recent financial market turmoil, ana- known as quantitative easing or QE by been divided about the need for more yesterday. lysts said. six months to March 2017. policy action. McKeown said that the The Royal Institution of Char- As widely expected, the ECB held Those decisions had disappointed markets “would be forgiven for tak- tered Surveyors (RICS) said demand its main “refi” borrowing rate at 0.05 financial market players who had ing such hints with a pinch of salt,” for new properties hit a three-month percent, where it has been since Sep- expected much more decisive action. following the widespread disappoint- high last month after Finance Min- tember 2014. And it also left its other two “While it comes as no real surprise ment last month. But she was confident ister George Osborne announced a lending rates — the marginal lending that the ECB has kept policy on hold for the ECB would move later on. “With higher rate of tax on the purchase rate and the deposit rate — unchanged now, Draghi is likely to leave the door markets scaling back their expecta- of properties for rental purposes at 0.30 percent and minus 0.30 percent wide open to further policy loosening tions for monetary tightening by the that is due to take effect in April. respectively. ECB chief Mario Draghi quite soon,” said Capital Economics US Federal Reserve, a failure to act RICS said the increase in was scheduled to explain the reasoning economist Jennifer McKeown. by the ECB could put further upward ECB President Mario Draghi (centre) addresses a news conference at demand helped nudge its monthly behind the latest decision at his reg- Draghi would “likely voice serious pressure on the euro exchange rate,” house price balance up to +50 from the ECB headquarters in Frankfurt yesterday. ular post-meeting news conference. concerns over recent financial market she said. +49 in November, in line with a Reu- ters poll of economists, although it remained below a 15-month high reached in August. The survey’s measure of house Greek PM accepts price expectations reached its high- est level since April 2014 and Simon Rubinsohn, RICS’s chief economist, said a further heating up of the partners’ demand housing market was likely before April. “The deadline for the increase has prompted many investors to for IMF role in bailout bring forward buying decisions this month and contributed to a general increase in buying activ- ity,” Jeremy Leaf, a London-based Reuters other parliaments had agreed to aid property valuer, said in a statement Greece on condition that the IMF issued by RICS. remained engaged in the programme British housing prices have risen and it would be like “entering a room sharply over the past two years, DAVOS: Greek Prime Minister Alexis full of dynamite with a lighted can- helped by record-low interest rates, Tsipras said yesterday that Athens dle” to ask the Bundestag to change a big increase in employment and a accepts its European partners’ insist- that agreement. shortage of properties on the market. ence that the International Monetary Tsipras joked that he didn’t want Those increases have added to Fund should play a role in supervising Schaeuble to blow himself up so they the appeal of buy-to-let for inves- the country’s international bailout. needed to remove the dynamite before tors who are often individuals who Addressing the World Economic he entered that room. hold at most a handful of homes. Forum in Davos on a panel that included The leftist Greek leader, who was Buy-to-let accounted for almost German Finance Minister Wolfgang due to meet IMF Managing Director one in four house purchases funded Schaeuble, Tsipras said Greece believed Christine Lagarde later, said what by a mortgage last year, a chunk the European Union could manage the mattered was that differences among of the market unseen in other big programme on its own but it accepted Athens’ lenders should not delay con- Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras (left) and ENI Chairman Emma Marcegaglia during a session at the World economies. that other partners wanted the IMF cluding a first review of the bailout Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, yesterday. Overall there are nearly 2 mil- involved. programme. Greece is debating a polit- lion private landlords in Britain, “There has been a long debate, we ically sensitive pension reform which owning almost 20 percent of homes. have heard different views. Some part- is a pre-condition for completing the proposed pension reform because it insisted on the Davos panel that there specifically on the pension reform But the government is now try- ners asked that the IMF be involved and first review and starting talks on debt would be funded partly by increases should not be another across-the-board but said what mattered most was the ing to put a dampener on the sector we agreed in order to have the agree- restructuring but which has prompted in contributions by employers and cut in pensions after 12 previous pen- European Union countries stuck to the as it tries to help get more people ment. Now we are doing all we can to a wave of strikes. employees, which they contend would sion reforms that cut benefits since agreements they reached — a frequent on the property ladder, one of its implement this agreement,” he said. IMF and European Union officials prevent economic recovery and job cre- the start of Greece’s bailouts in 2010. German criticism of Greece’s perform- main messages to voters. Schaeuble said the German and have voiced reservations about the ation in the official economy. Tsipras Schaeuble did not comment ance in the past six years. 16 FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 BUSINESS

QE INDICES SUMMARY QATAR STOCK EXCHANGE QE Index 8,584.01 1.21 % QE Total Return Index 13,342.6 1.21 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 3,039.03 1.38 % QE All Share Index 2,287.29 1.09 % QE All Share Banks & Financial Services 2,338.19 1.01 % QE All Share Industrials 2,556.95 0.94 % QE All Share Transportation 2,107.59 1.64 % QE All Share Real Estate 1,805.49 3.66 % QE All Share Insurance 3,578.84 0.97 % QE All Share Telecoms 928.67 0.52 % QE All Share Consumer Goods & Services 4,700.39 0.27 %

QE MARKET SUMMARY COMPARISON 21-01-2016 Today 20-01-2016 Previous day Index 8,584.01 8,689.37 Change 105.36 297.13 % 1.21 3.31 YTD% 17.69 16.68 Volume 5,374,837 7,805,697 Value (QAR) 184,138,841.74 290,732,893.09 Trades 3,457 5,374 Up 15 | Down 21 | Unchanged 04

WORLD STOCK INDICES Index Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low All Ordinaries 4917.646 20.737 0.42 5379.6 4857.9 Cac 40 Index/D 4139.37 14.42 0.35 4586.11 4084.68 Dj Indu Average 15766.74 -249.28 -1.56 18351.4 15370.3 Hang Seng Inde/D 18542.15 -344.15 -1.82 21794.84 18833.88 Iseq Overall/D 6194.32 34.49 0.56 6791.68 6146.61 Karachi 100 In/D 30751.8 -14.21 -0.05 33304.4 29785 Nikkei 225 Index 16017.26 -398.93 -2.43 18951.12 16387.61 S&P 500 Index/D 1859.33 -22 -1.17 2134.72 1812.29

EXCHANGE RATE Currency Buying Selling US$ QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 UK QR 5.1078 QR 5.1795 INTERNATIONAL MARKETS - A LIST OF SHARES FROM THE WORLD Euro QR 3.9454 QR 4.0014 COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME CA$ QR 2.4922 QR 2.5411 NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED Swiss Fr QR 3.6006 QR 3.6507 Yen QR 0.0309 QR 0.0315 A B G Infra-Xc/D 127.1 -6.8 2711 Emco-B/D 25.9 0.25 37389 Kakatiya Cem-B/D 132.5 4.1 2013 Til Ltd.-T/D 365.5 -3.25 1959 Aus$ QR 2.4945 QR 2.5451 A C C-A/D 1234.9 19.8 13109 Escorts Fin-B/D 4.29 -0.12 43884 Kalpat Power-B/D 187.2 -3.7 36655 Timexgroup-T/D 26.8 -0.9 26024 Ind Re QR 0.0531 QR 0.0541 Aarti Drugs-B/D 502 0.95 3216 Escorts-A/D 128.65 1.3 115974 Kalyani Stel-T/D 142.5 -0.5 31871 Tinplate-B/D 65.05 -0.5 44403 Aban Offs-A/D 178.95 -3.4 359652 Essar Oil-T/D 259 -0.1 14390 Kanoria Chem-B/D 56.7 -0.1 17998 Ucal Fuel-B/D 105.1 0.2 9026 Pak Re QR 0.0344 QR 0.0351 Aegis Logis-B/D 90.8 -1.25 42664 Eveready Indu-/D 251 -1.15 50555 Kg Denim-B/D 46 0.15 8419 Ucal Fuel-B/D 105.1 0.2 9026 Peso QR 0.0754 QR 0.0769 Alembic-B/D 40.1 1.7 222456 F D C-B/D 190.5 -1.8 5637 Kilburnengg-Xd/D 68.25 2.35 15356 Ultramarine-B/D 102.9 0.6 15037 SL Re QR 0.0250 QR 0.0256 Alok Indus-A/D 5.11 -0.1 1299166 Federal Bank-A/D 47.6 -0.05 158768 Kinetic Eng-B/D 84.8 1.5 2582 Unitech P -A/D 5.52 -0.03 8458322 Apollo Tyre-A/D 135.45 0.6 172956 Ferro Alloys-B/D 5.3 -0.09 19512 Kopran-B/D 53.5 0.2 113145 Univcable-T/D 67 -3.05 4132 Taka QR 0.0459 QR 0.0469 Asahi I Glass-/D 147.5 0.65 4624 Fgp Ltd-B/D 3.83 0 2730 Lloyd Metal-B/D 9.18 0.6 29858 Uppergsugar-T/D 76.6 0 23977 Nep Re QR 0.0332 QR 0.0338 Ashok Leyland-/D 83.6 0 905361 Finolex-A/D 272.65 7.7 13110 Lok.Hous&Con-B/D 6.53 -0.07 36783 SA Rand QR 0.2164 QR 0.2207 Bajaj Hold-A/D 1415.5 -60.5 1336 Gail-A/D 340.25 0.75 65900 Lumax Ind-B/D 392.7 -0.8 1930 LONDON Ballarpur In-B/D 15.85 0.05 513196 Galada Power-B/D 15.3 -1.65 8699 Lupin-A/D 1683.2 -8.35 39374 Banaras Bead-B/D 39.85 2.4 1719 Gammon India-T/D 15.4 0.1 51808 Lyka Labs-T/D 81.8 -1.2 102174 3I Group/D 420.5 4.5 460077 GOLD AND SILVER Bannari Aman-B/D 1030 -9.75 9409 Gangotri Tex-T/D 1.99 -0.1 4590 Mafatlal Ind-B/D 281.7 -8.1 3287 Assoc.Br.Foods/D 2920 -2 180205 Bata India-A/D 443.25 -9.2 29199 Garden P -B/D 23.95 0.55 2225 Mah.Seamless-B/D 143 0.6 9058 Barclays/D 183.85 1.85 21132965 GOLD QR129.1642 per gramme Beml Ltd-A/D 1066.05 -28.6 52636 Godfrey Phil-B/D 1206.1 33.7 85196 Mangalam Cem-B/D 178.3 5.4 1689 Bg Group/D 904.3 6.7 4601046 Bh Electronic-/D 1174 -40.1 48396 Goodricke-B/D 167 1 14647 Maral Overs-B/D 30.9 0.3 16450 Bp/D 331.95 3.8 13309143 SILVER QR1.6494 per gramme Bhansali Eng-T/D 18.95 -0.2 108685 Goodyear I -B/D 487.5 2 4298 Mastek-B/D 131.1 0 30678 Brit Am Tobacc/D 3557 -8 724242 Bharat Bijle-B/D 841.5 13.25 31529 Hcl Infosys-B/D 45.7 0.35 571977 Max India L-A/D 454.95 7.8 33220 Bt Group/D 458 6 5686238 Bharatgears-B/D 77.8 2.65 5558 Him.Fut.Comm-T/D 20 0.2 7261862 Mrpl-A/D 63.15 0.55 104940 Centrica/D 202.4 -1.6 3904350 Bhartiya Int-B/D 493 -3.5 13135 Himat Seide-B/D 200.5 -0.3 172624 Nagreeka Ex-B/D 28.3 -2.1 3518 Gkn/D 279 2.3 1279824 Bhel-A/D 143.25 0.6 434359 Hind Motors-T/D 6.05 -0.22 79914 Nagreeka Ex-B/D 28.3 -2.1 3518 Hsbc Holdings/D 466.85 1.05 13486185 Bom.Burmah-B/D 397.55 1 37426 Hind Org Chem-/D 14.2 -0.25 21765 Nahar Spg.-B/D 98.7 0.5 13768 Imperial Tobac/D 3448.848 -28.5 725014 China has no Bombay Dyeing-/D 51.1 -0.8 154039 Hind Unilever-/D 776.85 -19.65 105568 Nation Alum -A/D 34.1 -0.35 159020 Kingfisher/D 336.3 10.6 2401900 Camph.& All-B/D 458 14.75 5624 Hind.Petrol-A/D 794 -12.6 92406 Navneet Edu-B/D 83.45 1.75 3173 Land Secs Grou/D 1059 -1 1132149 Canfin Homes-B/D 912.75 33.2 4119 Hindalco-A/D 68.3 0.6 1570003 Nepc India-T/D 2.13 -0.11 19070 Legal & Genera/D 234.4 0.7 4133429 Caprihans-Xc/D 87 2.25 5792 Hous Dev Fin-A/D 1135 -0.2 73417 Neuland Lab-B/D 685 8.75 2370 Lloyds Bnk Grp/D 63.93 -0.12 68206532 intention to Castrol India-/D 409.1 -0.25 14059 I F C I-A/D 20.8 -0.7 1378050 Nrb Bearings-B/D 129.3 2.6 1204 Marks & Sp./D 412.7 1.9 1412858 Century Enka-B/D 167.6 1.9 5820 Idbi-A/D 57.55 2.25 1930041 O N G C-A/D 207.6 -5.5 592927 Next/D 6511.7456 -15 151935 Century Text-A/D 503.1 0.4 141759 Ifb Agro-B/D 403.9 18.7 2408 Oil Country-B/D 26.45 -0.85 4381 Pearson/D 754 96.5 8914784 devalue yuan Chambal Fert-B/D 54.05 -3.9 456829 India Cement-A/D 83.6 3.25 502652 Onward Tech-B/D 78.1 3.8 3763 Prudential/D 1304 -17 2002839 Chola Invest-A/D 614.5 19.7 1977 India Glycol-B/D 80 -0.8 10423 Orchid Pharm-B/D 42.6 -0.35 358210 Rank Group/D 277.2 2.5 39146 Chowgule St-T/D 18.05 0.2 1290 Indian Card-B/D 236.9 5.4 1746 Orient Hotel-T/D 24.25 0.85 4273 Rentokil Initi/D 149 -1 1281071 Cimmco-B/D 73.2 -0.35 9499 Indian Hotel-A/D 107.2 -1.85 109281 Orient.Carb.-T/D 500 -0.25 2108 Rolls Royce Pl/D 523.605 -7.5 4139164 DAVOS: China’s vice president underlined the Com- Cipla-A/D 581.65 -11.85 86553 Indo-Tcount-T/D 1015.75 5.55 11132 Orient.Carb.-T/D 500 -0.25 2108 Rsa Insrance G/D 384.3 -3.8 754939 munist leadership’s pledge to avoid pursuing a policy of City Union Bk-/D 78.25 -1.2 19904 Indusind-A/D 873.55 6.55 60373 Oudh Sugar-B/D 40.25 -0.4 20462 Sainsbury(J)/D 230 -2.9 1807092 devaluation of the yuan, after criticism that his nation’s Colgate-A/D 908.2 -7.35 24632 J.B.Chemical-B/D 237.25 0.25 38801 Patspin India-/D 8.95 0.04 4402 Schroders/D 2534 23 194968 policy makers haven’t been clear on their intentions Container Cor-/D 1216 7.45 15338 Jagson Phar-B/D 37.6 1 57558 Punjab Chem.-B/D 138.7 -0.4 1838 Severn Trent/D 2053 -20 178433 with the exchange rate. Dai-Tichi Kar-/D 323 8 5145 Jamnaauto-B/D 134.9 -0.2 187700 Radico Khait-B/D 109.5 2.5 94013 Smith&Nephew/D 1085 3 595974 “The fluctuations in the currency market are a result Dcm Financia-T/D 1.3 -0.06 1560 Jbf Indu-B/D 207.45 3.65 20382 Rallis India-A/D 144.5 0.8 22062 Smiths Group/D 871 7.5 252677 of market forces, and the Chinese government has no Dhampur Sugar-/D 58.3 -3.55 146077 Jct Elect P -B/D 0.37 -0.01 10450 Rallis India-A/D 144.5 0.8 22062 Standrd Chart /D 467.7 0.7 2996074 intention and no policy to devalue its currency,” Li Yuan- Dr. Reddy-A/D 2757.55 -110.75 58318 Jct Ltd-B/D 6.72 0 626008 Reliance Indus/D 341.75 -8.75 131084 Tate & Lyle/D 592.5 -3.5 356723 chao, who is also a member of the party’s Politburo, said E I H-B/D 114.25 -2.6 9818 Jenson&Nich.-B/D 9.19 0.27 45155 Ruchi Soya-B/D 24.6 0.6 60882 Tesco/D 153.05 0.65 6385926 in an interview E.I.D Parry-A/D 173.4 -5.35 62281 Jindal Drill-B/D 113.7 -0.3 2331 Saur.Cem-B/D 53.9 0.4 69137 Unilever/D 2868.5 36.5 1129423 with Bloomb- Eicher Motor-A/D 15556 4.5 6261 Jktyre&Ind-A/D 84.5 -1.4 163454 Tanfac Indust-/D 30.15 -0.85 2289 United Util Gr/D 900.5 -3.5 622817 erg News Eimco Elecon-T/D 480 17.5 1009 Jmc Projects-T/D 212.3 0.9 10018 Tanfac Indust-/D 30.15 -0.85 2289 Vodafone Group/D 209.742 -0.1 19873717 China’s steps last Electrosteel-B/D 20 -0.4 133024 Kabra Extr-B/D 83.2 -3.3 9257 Thirumalai-B/D 175.7 2.9 2682 Whitbread/D 3864 -11 214064 Thursday after year to make arriving at the the yuan more World Eco- nomic Forum’s responsive to annual meet- market forces, and ing in Davos, US stocks rise on oil while Europe on stimulus hopes Switzerland. to end its peg to the Moves last dollar, have spurred year to make confusion among the yuan more equities advanced and the euro have given Europeans a bit of a to US data for clues on the strength 8 percent in 2016 and is off to its responsive to weakened amid speculation the lift and helped out the US markets of the world’s largest economy and worst start to a year since the finan- market participants market forces, European equities region’s central bank may add stim- as well. I think people are start- the path of Federal Reserve policy. cial crisis. and to end its advanced and the ulus to combat disinflation. ing to believe that while we may Corporate earnings may also offer Chevron Corp. climbed 1 per- peg to the dol- The Standard & Poor’s 500 not be at an absolute bottom, we cues on the robustness of the US cent and Home Depot Inc surged 4 lar, have spurred confusion among market participants, euro weakened Index advanced from its low- may be close.” recovery, with the few companies percent as energy and consumer and days ago the U.S. Treasury chief to urge clear commu- amid speculation est close in 21 months. The Stoxx With distress in China showing that have reported so far mostly discretionary companies helped nication on the matter. Secretary Jacob J. Lew’s message, the region’s central Europe 600 Index rallied the most few signs of abating and oil’s slump exceeding estimates. pace the rebound from Thursday’s delivered in a call with an aide to President Xi Jinping, in a month and the euro fell 0.5 to 12-year lows fueling disinfla- “The market is taking a good selloff. Banks also bounced, with was echoed in Davos by attendees including International bank may add percent versus the dollar after tion, ECB President Mario Draghi hard look at fundamentals in the Wells Fargo & Co and Citigroup Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde. stimulus to combat remarks from the European Central signaled at his briefing Thursday US and saying things aren’t actu- Inc up at least 1.5 percent. Li redirected concerns about exchange-rate volatility Bank’s president. Chinese equities that additional support is availa- ally that bad after all,” said Brad The Stoxx 600 climbed 2 to actions by the Federal Reserve, saying “fluctuations in disinflation fell even after the People’s Bank ble as soon as March if conditions McMillan, chief investment officer percent. It surged as much as 2.5 the currency market started with the raising of interest of China injected the most cash warrant. of Commonwealth Financial Net- percent as Draghi spoke. Com- rates by the Fed.” Li came to the Davos gathering with a via open-market operations since Downside risks to the euro-area work in Waltham, Massachusetts, modity producers led gains. Italian message of reassurance that the world’s second-larg- 2013. Russia’s ruble dropped to a economy have increased since the which oversees $100bn. “Look at banks rebounded, with Banca est economy remains on track, despite international Bloomberg record. US crude was little changed year began amid financial-mar- jobs and consumer comfort, they’re Monte dei Paschi di Siena SpA jump- investor concerns. He and fellow delegation members after erasing losses. ket turmoil that has erased more pretty solid. There’s been a lot of ing 45 percent as European Union pledged to stay with a reform program that has seen “The big thing is the ECB than $15 trillion from global equity fear, but the low oil price doesn’t officials signaled they’re ready to China move away from reliance on investment, in the standing pat on rates,” said Peter values as markets from Japan to mean that demand is collapsing. speed up the process of setting up process slowing its growth. The comments by the Chi- SINGAPORE: US stocks climbed Jankovskis, who helps oversee Germany and Brazil plunged into It means there’s a supply imbal- an Italian bad bank. Deutsche Bank nese vice president on the yuan follow a volatile start for as crude approached $29 a bar- $1.9bn as co-chief investment bear territory. Amid mounting signs ance and that’s OK.” The S&P 500 AG slid 4.2 percent after Germa- the year, which began with an unexpectedly large reduc- rel in New York, boosting shares officer of Lisle, Illinois-based Oak- that the turmoil is hampering glo- rose 1 percent at 10:46 am in New ny’s biggest lender forecast a loss tion in the reference rate in onshore trading in China. in energy producers. European Brook Investments. “It seems to bal growth, investors are turning York. The index has fallen about for the fourth quarter. BUSINESS VIEWS FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 17

US stocks set for Weak US inflation and new a comeback, or data lower rate hike plans another blow?

By Rodrigo Campos in New York. Technical ana- REUTERS lysts like Andrew Adams at Raymond James just think more selling needs to happen. he deep selling that has “While we do not anticipate been synonymous with another major market col- TWall Street in the new lapse like we have seen in year became bad enough on the past 15 years,” he said in Wednesday to start draw- a note, “it does make sense ing in buyers, but it is still too to be cautious at these levels soon to tell whether they will because the market is throw- look brilliant or battered in ing up red flags by breaking the weeks ahead. through its critical support.” The steep declines on On Wednesday, the S&P Wednesday morning sent 500 closed at its lowest since mixed signals regarding a October 2014 after touch- market bottom. Several tech- ing its weakest level in almost nical indicators — the number two years. However some of stocks hitting new lows, for expect the index to fall even example — pointed to a mar- further before the down- ket recovery coming soon. ward trend can reverse. The But negative factors S&P 500 ended just below remain. The outlook for US 1,860, down 9 percent for the corporate earnings continues year and 12.7 percent from its to worsen, and worries about record high. To confirm that it further declines from softer is a bona fide bear market, it Chinese demand and weak would have to fall 8.3 percent oil prices persist. The S&P further to near 1,704. 500 could fall another 8 per- The next support level, cent before earning a “bear according to various techni- Employees from a real estate company monitor screens at their office in Washington. Building permits issued in the US fell market” title and some mar- cal analysts, is between 1,750 in December. ket investors still want to see and 1,770. more blood before they buy. Others analysts expect On Wednesday, there to see declines until the best were 1,410 new 52-week performers of 2015, including By Lucia Mutikani Despite last month’s drop, the CPI rose 0.7 lows on the New York Stock Amazon, Netflix, Activision Reuters percent in the 12 months through December, Exchange, the most for any Blizzard, Nvidia and Cablevi- the biggest gain in a year. That followed a 0.5 day since November 2008. sion, fall further. percent increase in November. Economists Historical market action So far in 2016 those had forecast the CPI unchanged in Decem- shows that after days of such five stocks have fallen 13.5 S consumer prices unexpect- ber and rising 0.8 percent from a year ago. broad selling, buyers may be percent after more than dou- edly fell in December as the The year-over-year inflation rate is ris- tempted to step in to take bling in price as a group last cost of energy products and food ing as oil price-driven weak readings in 2015 advantage of the low prices. year. This leaves plenty room declined, offering signs of weak drop out of the calculation. The boost from A drop in housing starts The previous five times in for investors to sell and still inflation that further diminish the so-called base effects could, however, be which more than 1,000 NYSE come out winning. Uexpectations of a Federal Reserve interest limited by lower oil prices, which are near and building permits last issues were at a year low, the Federal Reserve policy rate hike in March. 12-year lows. Consumer prices increased 0.7 month, adding to weak average gain on the S&P 500 makers have consistently said Other data on Wednesday showed a drop percent in 2015, the second smallest Decem- after one month was near they are not targeting stock in housing starts and building permits last ber-December gain in the last 50 years, after reports on retail sales, 12 percent, a clear sign that prices when dictating mon- month, adding to weak reports on retail sales, rising 0.8 percent in 2014. The so-called core industrial production, buyers were enticed by the etary policy, but they have industrial production, exports, inventory and CPI, which strips out food and energy costs, bargain share prices. If the bolstered markets for much manufacturing surveys that have suggested edged up 0.1 percent in December after exports, inventory and pattern repeats itself, that of the last seven years by a significant slowdown in economic growth advancing 0.2 percent in each of the prior manufacturing surveys average gain from Wednes- keeping interest rates low at the end of 2015. Against the backdrop of three months. day’s low would take the S&P and injecting cash through renewed weakness in oil prices, which touched In the 12 months through December, the that have suggested a 500 above 2,000 by late asset purchases. The Fed has new lows on Wednesday, economists say core CPI increased 2.1 percent, the largest rise significant slowdown in February. hinted that it expects to raise the expected reversion to the Fed’s 2 per- since July 2012, after climbing 2.0 percent economic growth However, some traders US interest rates four times in cent inflation target is in November. The Fed tracks a price meas- are still keeping an eye out for 2016 after doing it in Decem- slowing. ure that is running well below the core CPI. a “capitulation-type” session, ber for the first time in almost The Labor Depart- Market-based measures of Fed policy in which negative volume a decade. Its policy setting ment said its Consumer expectations assigned a probability of 29 overwhelms positive and an committee meets next week Price Index slipped percent to the central bank’s raising rates at to put the same upward pressure on rents,” almost irrational sense of for the first time this year 0.1 percent after being the March 15-16 meeting, according to the said Steve Blitz, chief economist at ITG despair takes over the mar- and the follow up statement, unchanged in Novem- CME Group’s FedWatch programme. Investment Research in New York. ket. The fears which typically expected on January 27, will ber. The CPI was also Last month, energy prices dropped 2.4 Building permits declined 3.9 percent accompany a market bottom be combed for a more dovish weighed down by mod- percent, with petrol tumbling 3.9 percent. to a 1.23 million-unit rate in December, have not been seen yet. stance, enticing the bulls back erate increases in rents Energy prices had declined 1.3 percent in pulled down by an 11.4 percent plunge in “I don’t think we’ve hit into stocks. Against the backdrop and healthcare costs. November, while petrol fell 2.4 percent. Food permits for multi-family buildings. Per- capitulation yet. It certainly “To the extent that they of renewed weakness “The broad-based prices fell for a second straight month, with mits for the construction of single-family has been ugly but in order for (the Fed) back off their rate nature of the decline meat, poultry, fish and eggs prices posting homes rose 1.8 percent last month. there to really be a bottom, increase trajectory, it’s going in oil prices, which in inflation will hardly their biggest decline since August 1979. Economists, however, saw last month’s it’s got to be one of those to provide perhaps an inflec- touched new lows, be encouraging news at The gain in the core CPI was kept in check weakness in home building as temporary, days where it gets so ugly it’s tion point in the market,” said the Fed, and if anything by small increases in rents and medical care citing labour market strength and rising almost panicky,” said Ken Pol- Bucky Hellwig, senior vice economists say the it is likely to temper their costs. Rents rose 0.2 percent after a similar household formation. “Underlying funda- cari, director of the NYSE floor president at BB&T Wealth expected reversion to confidence in the outlook gain in November. “Faltering rent inflation mentals suggest there is more room to run. division at O’Neil Securities Management in Birmingham. the Fed’s 2% inflation for inflation,” said Millan ... signals the loss of economic momentum. Moreover, lending conditions for residen- Mulraine, deputy chief That momentum moved millennials off of tial mortgages continue to ease,” said Mark target is slowing economist at TD Secu- their parents’ couch and onto their own, but Vitner, a senior economist at Wells Fargo rities in New York. momentum may no longer be strong enough in Charlotte, North Carolina. Junk bonds come under fire from some US stock traders

By Joseph Ciolli, Oliver Renick “People are concerned we’re entering a grade range — defined as holding a rating credit exposure. Since 2000, the 20 percent and Dani Burger different part of the credit cycle where compa- of at least triple-B — losses extend as credit of S&P 500 companies least reliant on out- Bloomberg nies are no longer able to add leverage,” Peter quality worsens. Double-A rated shares in the side funding, defined by the ratio of cash flow Cecchini, co-head of equities and chief mar- Russell 3000 Index are down an average 7.8 from financing activities to market capitali- ket strategist at Cantor Fitzgerald LP in New percent, single-A shares have lost 8 percent zation, have seen returns about double those York, said by phone. “Equity value becomes and triple-B companies are down 9.9 percent, with the most reliance, according to data com- or clues as to what’s contributing to much more sensitive as the cushion between according to Bloomberg data. Meanwhile, the piled by the bank. Companies in the group the downward force in US stocks this leverage on a balance sheet and what equity three companies with coveted triple-A rat- include Boeing Co, GameStop Corp. and United year, take a look at the bond market. is worth becomes narrower. There’s a fear ings have fallen 7.1 percent. Rentals Inc. Credit-risk has become the byword credit markets are no longer supporting equity Think it’s all a function of weakness in “Considering that the financing markets Ffor vulnerability in 2016’s equity market, as markets.” energy and mining stocks? Not quite. With have become more constrained, we believe As the selloff in junk-rated evidenced by the propensity for lower- rated A similar story is told by baskets of US com- those industries removed from the index, the the environment is right for these stocks to equities has worsened, companies to lead the way down — and not panies ranked by Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lowest-rated companies are down an average continue to work,” Jonathan Glionna, head of just among commodity producers. according to their financial health. Last year, 14 percent in 2016, compared with invest- US equity strategy at Barclays, wrote in a Jan. investors are now paying Data shows the division within the Stand- stocks in the bank’s weak balance sheet group ment-grade rated companies that have lost 19 client note. “We recommend buying com- a premium for companies ard & Poor’s 500 Index, where companies with trailed their stronger counterparts for the first 8.5 percent. The trend was evident at the peak panies that do not need external financing.” with investment grade bond ratings below investment grade have time since 2011 — and are down another 10 of selling on Wednesday, when lower-rated As the selloff in junk-rated equities has lost an average 14 percent year to date, com- percent in 2016. companies declined 4.4 percent and higher- worsened, investors are now paying a pre- ratings relative to their pared with 9.5 percent for higher-rated ones. The yield premium on investment-grade quality shares lost 3.7 percent. mium for companies with investment grade high-yield peers Priorities are reversing in a market where debt has widened 18 basis points to 191 basis BlackRock’s iShares iBoxx High Yield Cor- ratings relative to their high-yield peers — the for the past three years one of the best things points in 2016, the highest in about 3 1/2 porate Bond ETF, the largest ETF of its kind, first time that’s happened since 1994, accord- you could do with your money was put it in years, according to Bank of America Mer- has declined 4.3 percent in 2016. The SPDR ing to data from Bank of America Corp. The stocks backed by the weakest balance sheets. rill Lynch index data. In junk bonds, spreads Barclays High Yield Bond ETF has slid 4.8 per- forward price-to-earnings ratio for S&P 500 Now those stocks are taking the worst of the have expanded by nearly 100 basis points in cent over the same period. Both funds are at companies with junk ratings slid to 15.3 at the drubbing as signs of stress multiply in credit January to 788 basis points, hovering at lev- the lowest since 2009. end of December from 16.8 in January 2015. markets, oil’s plunge won’t let up and global els not seen since October of 2011. To Barclays Plc, the best way to play the Meanwhile, investment-grade stock valua- equities hurdle toward a bear market. Even for companies within the investment equity selloff is to buy stocks with minimal tions climbed to 15.8 times in December. 18 FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 CLASSIFIEDS

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AFP MATCH-FIXING HITS CRICKET WORLD

NEW DELHI: As the tennis world reels from match-fixing claims, fresh scan- sport are investigated. dals have embroiled cricket, sparking But Richardson also told India’s scepticism of efforts to tackle corrup- Hindustan Times newspaper on Mon- Vaas to tion that has plagued the “gentleman’s day “that is not to say that we can game” in recent years. guarantee there will be no fixing of assist An explosive report this week matches”. claimed match-fixing in tennis was Richardson was speaking on the repeatedly going unpunished, while same day that India banned off-spin- Ireland South Africa captain AB de Villiers world number one Novak Djokovic ner Ajit Chandila for life over a fixing said he was once offered $200,000 scandal that erupted over the 2013 edi- AFP to fix a match in Russia. tion of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The report came after the sports Batsman Hiken Shah was also sus- world was stunned by allegations of pended for five years for a separate DUBLIN: Former Sri Lanka doping cover-ups in athletics and a incident ahead of last year’s lucra- bowler Chaminda Vaas string of scandals engulfing football’s tive Twenty20 tournament. (pictured) is to help Ireland De Villiers wants Proteas governing body FIFA. Chandila’s ban for cricket’s prepare for the ICC World But corruption claims have also breaching anti-corruption code Twenty20 tournament in returned to haunt cricket, threatening was imposed despite that fact that India as a consultant bowl- once again to sully the sport which he, former Test bowler Shanthakuma- ing coach, Cricket Ireland has been battling to curb the influence ran Sreesanth and another teammate announced yesterday. to strengthen coaching of illegal bookmakers on matches. from the IPL’s Rajasthan Royals fran- The 41-year-old will link Sri Lanka this week suspended chise, were acquitted last year after up with Ireland next month their fast bowling coach amid a police a police probe into claims of delib- and remain with the squad The Proteas have already lost the four- Russell Domingo, who has used his pred- investigation into alleged attempts to erately underperforming in return until the end of the tourna- South African skipper match Test series against England but ecessor Gary Kirsten, former Australia bribe players to underperform in a for cash from bookies. ment, which runs from March can arrest their worst run of results for international Mike Hussey and most Test match against the West Indies Corruption has also surfaced in 8 to April 3. seeks for ways to climb 50 years with victory in the final match recently ex-Proteas captain Graeme in October. South Africa, with Indian-born former “I’m very excited to be out of the spiral of at Centurion Park, which starts today. Smith in consultancy roles to help the In one of the biggest cases last Proteas one-day international player joining the backroom staff De Villiers, installed as captain for team’s batsmen. year, New Zealand star Chris Cairns Gulam Bodi named this month as the of the Ireland team,” Vaas said decline that has cost the final two Tests of the summer fol- De Villiers repeated his desire to con- was acquitted of perjury charges in person charged with contriving to in a press release. “There’s a them their number-one lowing the resignation of Hashim Amla tinue as Test skipper after the series. November linked to a match fixing fix or improperly influence a match lot of talent and experience earlier this month, says he is keen to “I am keen to play a big role going case. in the country’s domestic Twenty20 in the squad which I’m con- world ranking continue in charge, but that whatever forward but it’s not solely my decision,” In a sign that cricket fans are competition last year. fident I can add to.” happens, the team must improve their he said. “I’ve seen a lot of talent come unwilling to stomach any more India, cricket’s financial power He took a total of 755 off-field support. through. We just need to get a bit of expe- scandals, the Pakistani fast bowler house which accounts for more than wickets in his 111 Tests and “I think we have been a bit naïve in rience and a few smart heads involved.” Mohammad Amir, aged 23, was booed half of the game’s global revenues, has 322 one-day internationals believing we can just go on in the way And he knows the value to his side by the crowd in New Zealand this long been mired in spot and match- and boasts the best figures by Reuters we have been,” he told reporters yester- of claiming a win in Pretoria to ease the month when he made his international fixing allegations. any bowler in limited-overs day. We need to get a bit of advice and mounting pressure on the team. comeback after serving a five-year India’s investigations into fixing internationals - 8-19 against help, not only from a batting coach, a “There are no dead rubbers when it ban and being jailed for bowling no- date back to the explosive scandal of Zimbabwe in December 2001. few other areas as well. comes to Test match cricket. We’d hate balls to order in a 2010 spot-fixing 2000 that ensnared three Test cap- Since retiring he has worked PRETORIA: South Africa captain AB de “That will all be discussed after the to lose 3-0. I think 2-1 sounds a lot bet- scandal. tains - South Africa’s Hansie Cronje, as a bowling consultant for Villiers believes his team need to bol- series. We have a nice break and time ter. We haven’t won a Test match for 12 International Cricket Council CEO Mohammad Azharuddin of India New Zealand and Sri Lanka, as ster their coaching staff to climb out of to think about things.” months. We are rebuilding a bit and try- Dave Richardson said this week that and Pakistan’s Salim Malik - who well as coaching in the Indian the spiral of decline that has cost them It is hardly a glowing endorsement ing to find our feet but it’s time for us to “no stone will be left unturned to make all received life bans from involv- Premier League. their number-one world ranking. of the work being done by head coach wake up and play proper cricket.” sure” that allegations of fixing in the ing in the game.

Cavs bounce back as Warriors march on WBO super middleweight champion Arthur AFP Abraham NBA HIGHLIGHTS AND RESULTS

NEW YORK: Kevin Love scored 17 points as the Cleveland Cavaliers got back to winning ways on Wednesday with a comfortable 91-78 win over the Brooklyn Nets. Still smarting from a humiliat- ing 132-98 home defeat to the Golden State Warriors on Monday, the Cavs rebounded to score an emphatic vic- tory at the Barclays Centre. Love, who also had 18 rebounds, completed his 19th double-double by halftime while LeBron James finished with 18 points. James also contributed five assists Abraham to defend title belt before sitting out the final 12 minutes as Cleveland eased to victory. The win saw Cleveland improve to 29-11 and they continue to lead the against Ramirez in Las Vegas Eastern Conference standings. Brooklyn meanwhile fell to 11-32 for the season as they slumped to their ninth defeat in 10 games. AFP “It is the dream of every profes- Centre Brook Lopez led the Nets BOXING: WBO SUPER sional boxer to see their name in neon with 16 points and nine rebounds, while MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE lights over the strip in Las Vegas,” said Thaddeus Young added 14 points before Abraham, who has 29 KOs from his fouling out. BERLIN: Germany’s Arthur Abraham 44 wins. He has won all eight of his The tone for the match was set by will defend his WBO super mid- nor I could possibly refuse,” said Ber- fights since the last of his four defeats, James, who scored six points in an 8-0 dleweight belt against undefeated lin-based Abraham. The 35-year-old to compatriot Robert Stieglitz back in run early in the first quarter. Cleve- Mexican Gilberto Ramirez on April 9 Abraham will face a significant test March 2013. Abraham last defended land steadily extended their lead, going in Las Vegas, it was announced yes- against the 24-year-old Ramirez, who his title with a split decision win over 51-38 up at halftime and retaining a terday. has an unblemished record of 24 knock- Britain’s Martin Murray in November. healthy 73-55 advantage heading into “I love to box in my native Ger- outs from 33 wins with no defeats. “This is perhaps the biggest chal- the final quarter. many, but the offer to compete in Las Should he defend his world title lenge of his career. Arthur can become Two emphatic dunks by Tris- Cleveland Cavaliers’ Timofey Mozgov shoots against Thomas Robinson Vegas, on the biggest stage in the world, for the sixth time, Abraham will be a German boxing hero,” said his vet- tan Thompson and a finger roll by (top) of the Brooklyn Nets during their game at the Barclays Centre was something neither my promoter the first German to win in Las Vegas. eran coach Ulli Wegner. J.R. Smith effectively sealed victory on Wednesday in New York City. midway through the fourth quarter, putting the Cavaliers ahead 85-62. unbeaten streak to six games. Jonas While the Cavaliers rebounded, Valanciunas chipped in 19 points and NBA RESULTS NFL: Buffalo Bills hire woman coach the Warriors produced another scin- 12 rebounds for the Canadians. Philadelphia 96 Orlando 87 tillating performance in a blowout win The worst team in the NBA, the Washington 106 Miami 87 on the road over the Chicago Bulls. Philadelphia 76ers, meanwhile gave Steph Curry poured on 25 points their fans a rare reason to smile with Cleveland 91 Brooklyn 78 AFP position - believed to be a first for the Cardinals coach Bruce Arians follow- with 11 assists in a 125-94 victory at a 96-87 defeat of the Orlando Magic NY Knicks 118 Utah 111 National Football League. ing his groundbreaking appointment the United Centre in Chicago. in Florida. Toronto 115 Boston 109 “Kathryn Smith has done an out- of Welter last year. Klay Thompson had 20 points Rookie center Jahlil Okafor scored Golden State 125 Chicago 94 standing job in the seven years that “He was really the first NFL head while Harrison Barnes had 19 for the 20 points while reserve forward Hollis Detroit 123 Houston 114 NEW YORK: The Buffalo Bills she has worked with our staff.” coach to make this kind of move when Warriors, who boosted their record to Thompson chipped in 17 as the Six- appointed Kathryn Smith to their “She certainly deserves this pro- he hired a female linebackers coach Oklahoma City 109 Charlotte 95 39-4. Chicago, ranked fourth in the ers notched their first victory in the special teams staff on Wednesday, motion based on her knowledge and through the summer,” Ryan said, add- Eastern Conference, fell to 24-17 after Eastern Conference to score only their Dallas 106 Minnesota 94 becoming the first NFL side to hire strong commitment, just to name a ing that he had also taken note of the the defeat. sixth win of the season. Sacramento 112 LA Lakers 93 a woman to a full-time coaching job. couple of her outstanding qualities, San Antonio Spurs appointment of The Toronto Raptors remain the Newly signed point guard Ish Atlanta 104 Portland 98 Smith’s appointment as quality and I just know she’s going to do a Becky Hammon to a coaching role closest challengers to Cleveland in Smith, who weighed in with 13 points control-special teams coach comes great job serving in the role of Qual- last year. the Eastern Conference after a 115- and 11 assists, agreed. at Washington. It got worse for the after the Arizona Cardinals hired Jen ity Control-Special Teams,” Buffalo Smith worked as an administra- 109 defeat of the Boston Celtics. An injury depleted Miami Heat Heat when center Hassan Whiteside Welter as an assistant coach during a Bills coach Rex Ryan said in a state- tive assistant to Ryan this season and DeMar DeRozan scored 34 points - missing Dwyane Wade and Goran and Luol Deng both exited the game training camp last year. ment on Wednesday. was also part of his support staff dur- for the Raptors as Toronto stretched its Dragic - slumped to a 106-87 defeat with injuries. Smith’s role however is a full-time Ryan said he had sounded out ing his final year at the New York Jets. SPORT FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 21 Saleh, Ali fired up for Qatar Masters

tournament. The top 65 players plus GOLF: COMMERCIAL ties after Thursday’s second round Amateur duo will BANK QATAR MASTERS will make the cut and play all 72 holes. represent Qatar The pair play regularly at Doha Golf Club as part of their training, but for a fourth time at The trio face a formidable field, the Championship Course proves a the European Tour with Henrik Stenson, Sergio Garcia, much tougher test during the week of Louis Oosthuizen and defending cham- the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters showpiece event at pion Branden Grace the top-ranked as the layout is made more challeng- the Doha Golf Club players in the 19th edition of the tour- ing for the European Tour pros. nament, which again sits at the heart Al Shahrani has played in the tour- Bryson DeChambeau of the US plays his tee shot at the 18th hole during the first round of the Abu Dhabi of The European Tour’s ‘desert swing’. nament for the past two years, having The big-hitting Al Kaabi secured made his debut in 2012 as a 17-year-old. HSBC Golf Championship at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club yesterday. his place for a fourth successive year by “I’m looking forward to the expe- The Peninsula finishing as the top local at the Qatar rience of the crowds and also being Open, tying for seventh after rounds able to play alongside the world’s best of 77, 74 and 74. players again,” said Al Shahrani, who DeChambeau leads in Abu Dhabi DOHA: Amateurs Saleh Al Kaabi and “I’m really happy to have quali- finished 11th at the Qatar Open. Ali Al Shahrani, both 21, will each rep- fied again for the Commercial Bank “Both Saleh and I really proud to resent Qatar for the fourth time at the Qatar Masters, which is always a great be representing Qatar and the Qatar upcoming $2.5m Commercial Bank event,” said Al Kaabi, whose second- Golf Association. We hope that young AFP ABU DHABI HSBC holes - both because of three-putts. Qatar Masters, which will be held at round 70 in 2014 is his lowest round Qatari children will see us playing and McIlroy said he was just happy Doha Golf Club from January 27 to 30. at the tournament. that this can inspire them to dream CHAMPIONSHIP with the way he played, especially The friends, who are both coached “I’m looking forward to playing of standing in our shoes someday.” ABU DHABI: Rory McIlroy won the 64 Bryson DeChambeau (USA) his driving. by Team Qatar coach Mike Elliott, with some great players again. I’ve Hassan Al Nuaimi, President of opening skirmish of his much antic- 65 Henrik Stenson (SWE) “It’s a great way to start the year. qualified as the top two locals at trained really hard, so I hope I can the Qatar Golf Association, said: “The ipated battle with Jordan Spieth by 66 Rory McIlroy (NIR), Branden Grace I felt in practice last week in Dubai this month’s 54-hole Qatar Open at play at the level I’m used to and hope- Qatar Golf Association is especially two shots in his first competitive out- (RSA) that I was swinging well and I really Doha Golf Club, where the champion, fully I can make the cut.” proud each year to see two of our ing of the year at the Abu Dhabi HSBC came back mentally refreshed and 67 Richard Bland (ENG), Andy Sulli- 16-year-old Dubai-based Rayhan Tho- Both Al Kaabi and Al Shahrani local players qualify to compete in Championship yesterday. really excited to play again,” said the van (ENG) mas, also booked his spot in next week’s are again aiming to become the first the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters. The world number three from five-time major champion. European Tour event. Qataris to play all four days at the Both Saleh and Ali are regular com- Northern Ireland posted a first round 68 Jordan Spieth (USA), David Howell “I don’t know if it’s about making a petitors in the event now and each six-under par 66 to lie two shots behind (ENG), Thomas Bjorn (DEN), Mat- statement, but I just want to play well. year they learn more and more from American amateur Bryson DeCham- thew Fitzpatrick (ENG), Niclas Fasth “I want to compete each and every (SWE) The European Tour’s top players. We beau (64) and one behind world number week. Obviously, there’s still a long wish them all the best and they know five Henrik Stenson (65). 69 Martin Kaymer (GER), Soren Kjeld- way to go, but I want to win every they will have a lot of local support.” World number one Spieth, who sen (DEN), Mikko Korhonen (FIN), tournament I play. It’s just about try- Stenson, Garcia and Grace are uncharacteristically missed a cou- Byeong-hun An (KOR), Wade ing to play the best that I can. I know among several big names to have ple of short putts, like McIlroy also Ormsby (AUS), Renato Paratore if I do that, hopefully there’s a lot of lifted the Mother of Pearl Trophy made two bogeys in his round of 68. (ITA), Simon Dyson (ENG), Wu wins to come.” Ashun (PRC), Johan Carlsson (SWE), since Commercial Bank began its The American was at the receiving Spieth, who won the Tournament Peter Hanson (SWE), Trevor Fisher title sponsorship in 2006. Other big end of the new pace of play procedure of Champions on the PGA Tour a cou- Jr (RSA), Daniel Brooks (ENG), Joost names include former World No. 1 adopted by the European Tour, and ple of weeks ago, needed six holes to Luiten (NED), Thomas Pieters (BEL), Adam Scott, two-time US Open winner received a ‘bad monitoring time’ on George Coetzee (RSA), Matthew make his first birdie, but then added Retief Goosen, 1999 Open Champion the eighth hole. Baldwin (ENG), Pelle Edberg (SWE) six more. The two bogeys came on the Paul Lawrie, former European Tour No. World number six Rickie Fowler, second and fifth holes, but the defend- 1 Robert Karlsson and Thomas Bjørn, the third player in the morning fea- ing Masters and US Open champion a 15-time European Tour champion. ture group, opened with a two-under He showed little signs of ring rust- seemed most frustrated by a missed Tickets are available to buy now par 70. iness as he opened with two straight birdie putt from four feet on the eighth at a range of outlets including Virgin McIlroy is playing his first tourna- birdies on the 10th and 11th holes after hole, where he also received his time Megastores (Online and in-store in ment of 2016 - after a gap of almost starting on the back nine of the golf violation warning. Doha), Ticket Master, Time Out Tickets, two months since winning the DP course. “It was a bit odd,” said Spieth about Saleh Al Kaabi and Ali Al Shahrani fired up for their Commercial Bank Q Tickets, Doha Golf Club and other World Tour Championship in Dubai However, he dropped two shots his warning after calling McIlroy’s Qatar Masters campaign. places. in November. on his first nine - on the 13th and 17th round a “masterclass”. Liverpool, Spurs reach FA Cup fourth round

ENGLISH FA CUP AFP as well that they have to work, which in 11 days -- the 2-2 draw in the is as it should be.” first FA Cup meeting having been RESULTS Exeter’s 6,000 travelling fans saw followed by Leicester’s 1-0 win at 3rd-rd replays LONDON: Liverpool overcame fourth- their team fall behind early on when White Hart Lane in the league -- Leicester 0 Tottenham 2 tier Exeter City 3-0 on Wednesday to Allen tapped in at the near post after the hosts made nine changes and (Son 39, Chadli 66) set up an FA Cup fourth-round clash Smith had exchanged passes with visitors Spurs eight. Liverpool 3 (Allen 10, Ojo 74, Teixeira with West Ham United, while Totten- Christian Benteke and cut the ball Son broke the deadlock in breath- 82) Exeter 0 ham Hotspur eliminated familiar foes back from the byline on the left. taking style in the 39th minute, flashing Leicester City. Jordon Ibe seemed on a personal a rocket of a shot past goalkeeper Aston Villa 2 (Clark 75, Gueye 90) Liverpool had required a 73rd- mission to score Liverpool’s second Kasper Schmeichel from the right- Wycombe 0 minute equaliser from Brad Smith goal, notably seeing a rasping shot hit hand apex of the penalty area. Bolton 3 (Madine 39, Moxey 43, to snatch a 2-2 draw at Exeter in the the bar and bounce on the line, before After home debutant Demarai Pratley 58) Eastleigh 2 (Partington 11, teams’ first meeting and the League admitting defeat and teeing up Ojo to Gray had seen a curler clawed away Mohamed 45+2) Two side gave another good account of curl home in front of the Kop in the by Michel Vorm, Son’s beautifully Bradford 0 Bury 0 (aet) themselves in the reunion at Anfield. 74th minute. weighted pass freed Nacer Chadli to Bury win 4-2 on penalties But Jurgen Klopp’s team prevailed Portuguese midfielder Teixeira stroke a left-foot shot beneath Sch- Bristol City 0 West Brom 1 (Rondon 52) in the third-round replay courtesy of a got in on the act eight minutes later, meichel in the 66th minute. Milton Keynes Dons 3 (Reeves 10th-minute Joe Allen strike and first finishing coolly from Benteke’s pass. Home manager Claudio Ranieri 53-pen, Murphy 61, Church 89-pen) Liverpool goals for 18-year-old sub- In further positive news for Liv- sent on talisman Jamie Vardy with 18 Northampton 0 stitute Sheyi Ojo and Joao Teixeira. erpool, home-grown full-back Jon minutes remaining, but Spurs held firm Portsmouth 2 (Roberts 32-pen, McNulty Klopp, who made 10 changes to Flanagan made his comeback as a sec- to avenge their 2-1 loss to Leicester in 37) Ipswich 1 (Maitland-Niles 60) his starting XI, praised his young play- ond-half substitute after 20 months last season’s fourth round. ers, telling BT Sport: “They did really out with a knee injury. “It was a fantastic performance Reading 5 (Piazon 29, Vydra 57, 61, 90, well. We could have scored more goals At Leicester’s King Power Stadium, and I’m very pleased for the players Alex 90+3) Huddersfield 2 (Paterson in both halves. South Korea forward Son Heung-Min and supporters,” said Spurs manager 8, Smith 15) Liverpool’s English midfielder Oluwaseyi Ojo (left) celebrates with team- “It’s still a short time that we’ve produced a brilliant goal and assist as Mauricio Pochettino. Yeovil 1 (Compton 31) Carlisle 1 worked with these boys, but it was Tottenham won 2-0 to secure a trip to “We dominated and managed the mates after scoring their second goal during the English FA Cup third (Sweeney 77) (aet) good. They showed that they are tal- third-tier Colchester United. game well and scored at key moments. round replay match against Exeter City at Anfield in Liverpool, north Carlisle win 5-4 on penalties ented, with big skills, but they showed In the teams’ third encounter Our attitude was fantastic.” west England on Wednesday.

Top 10 clubs in Barca join Real Madrid, Man United in 500m euros club Deloitte Football Money League 2014-15 (2013-14 position and revenue in brackets; AFP place with revenues of 560.8m euros, the first to make one billion euros in League finalists Juventus. Juventus were of a number of significant commercial figures in millions of euros): bumping United down to third. a year by 2021. joined in the top 20 by Serie A counter- partnerships, will only strengthen the 1. (1) Real Madrid (ESP) 577 (549.5) LONDON: European champions Barce- “For the first time, the top three Their plans include a 600m euros parts Roma, who climbed from 24th business in 2015-16,” said Deloitte’s lona joined Real Madrid and Manchester clubs in the Football Money League renovation of the 93,000-capacity to 16th, but Italian heavyweights AC Tim Bridge. 2. (4) Barcelona (ESP) 560.8 (484.8) United in earning over 500m euros have all passed the 500m euros revenue Camp Nou and the opening of more Milan and Inter Milan slipped to 14th “With this in mind, it would not 3. (2) Manchester United (ENG) 519.5 ($545.5m) last season, financial con- mark,” said Dan Jones from Deloitte’s overseas offices. Combined revenue and 19th respectively. be surprising to see United top next (518) sultants Deloitte revealed in their latest Sport Business Group. for the top 20 clubs in the list rose eight United paid the price for failing year’s Money League for the first time 4. (5) Paris Saint-Germain (FRA) Football Money League published yes- “FC Barcelona’s on-pitch achieve- percent to 6.6bn euros -- a new record. to qualify for the Champions League in 12 years, with the club forecasting 480.8 (471.3) terday. ments in the 2014-15 season have German champions Bayern Munich in 2013-14, the first season following revenues of around £500m (around 5. (3) Bayern Munich (GER) 474 Madrid topped the table for the 11th translated to financial success. The fell to fifth, their lowest placing since the retirement of legendary manager 650m euros).” (487.5) year running with earnings of 577m European champions have climbed to 2006-07, with Qatar-backed French Alex Ferguson. But the club’s return to In total there were nine Premier euros over the course of the season, second place at the expense of Man- champions Paris Saint-Germain over- the competition under Louis van Gaal League clubs in the top 20, while 17 of 6. (6) Manchester City (ENG) 463.5 (416.5) driven largely by a 22.7m euros increase chester United, with revenue growth taking them following another year -- albeit one that concluded with a the top 30 revenue-generating clubs in commercial revenue. across all areas of the business -- of growth. group-stage exit -- and a strong com- played in the English top flight in 2014- 7. (8) Arsenal (ENG) 435.5 (359.3) Barcelona, buoyed by on-pitch suc- matchday, broadcast and commercial.” Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea mercial operation could see them 15. England’s grip on the list is unlikely 8. (7) Chelsea (ENG) 420 (387.9) cess that included a La Liga, Spanish Barcelona’s president Josep Maria and Liverpool, from the all-powerful bounce back to top the list for 2015-16. to weaken anytime soon, with new 9. (9) Liverpool (ENG) 391.8 (305.9) Cup and Champions League treble, Bartomeu told the Financial Times last English Premier League, round out the “The return to Champions League television rights deals worth an esti- climbed from fourth place to second month that the club aim to become top 10 along with beaten Champions football, as well as the commencement mated £8bn due to kick in later this year. 10. (10) Juventus (ITA) 323.9 (279) 22 FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 SPORT

27th Race meet for H E Mr Abdullah Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Cup

Owners and jockey of horse Jenjal, winner of H E Mr Abdullah Bin Hamad Al Attiyah pose for a picture with Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) Chairman Sheikh Mohammed bin Faleh Al Thani, H E Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah and other officials at QREC in Doha yesterday. CENTRE: The winning horse Jenjal in action. RIGHT: QREC Chairman Sheikh Mohammed (right) presenting a memento to H E Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah. Hewitt bows out for good QTF warm up for Qatar Total as Murray marches on Open 2016 The Peninsula class matches, but also off-court TENNIS: AUSTRALIAN where they have planned a vari- Former World number OPEN Former World ety of activities. one Hewitt feels number one Lleyton Mohannadi said: “We are hon- Hewitt of Australia DOHA: Ticket sale to the 2016 ored of our partnership with Total fortunate to end his beside him. There were no distrac- reacts during his Qatar Total Open was launched E&P Qatar, Total have been a loyal career in front of tions for Murray though as he ruthlessly second round match at Total’s West Bay offices, provid- title sponsor for this world-class demolished big-serving Groth 6-0 6-4 against David Ferrer ing the opportunity to see world’s event for years and we have wit- Melbourne crowd 6-1 as the top seeds sailed through on of Spain for the best female players worldwide to nessed the growth of the vent a day of bright sunshine. Australian Open compete in Qatar. together, we are so proud of what The 2014 champion and fourth Grand Slam tennis The prestigious tournament we have reached and very looking seed Stanislas Wawrinka swatted tournament in will take place at the Khalifa forward to more years of fruitful Reuters away Czech veteran Radek Stepanek Melbourne, the last International Tennis and Squash collaboration.” in the twilight, while women’s third complex, from February 21 to 27. Spectators are sure to see a game of his career seed Garbine Muguruza and two- Saad Al Mohannadi, Tour- tournament full of exciting matches yesterday. Ferrer times champion Victoria Azarenka nament Director for Qatar Total featuring some of the world’s top MELBOURNE: Lleyton Hewitt bade also charged into the third round. beat Hewitt 6-2, Open, and Guillaume Chalmin, players, including world number an emotional farewell under the Aus- Rafael Nadal’s first-round exit to 6-4, 6-4 Managing Director of Total E&P one Serena Williams, world tralian Open floodlights yesterday as Fernando Verdasco punched a hole in Qatar, and Group Representatives, number two Simona Halep, number David Ferrer snuffed out any chance the bottom half of the draw, but four- inaugurated the sales, with Guil- three player Gabrine Muguruza of fairytale final flourish from the times finalist Murray was not about laume expressing his delight to be and defending champion Lucie local hero. to join the fallen Spaniard. supporting the tournament from Safarova, Agneiska Rdwanska, After world number two Andy He disarmed Groth, the world’s the very first edition 15 years ago. Maria Sharapova, Petra Kvitova Murray had trampled on home sen- fastest recorded server, with a clini- “We are honored to kick start and Angelique Kerber, all among sibilities by mauling Australian Sam cal returning game, showing his guile the tournament which keeps grow- the top 10 in the world. Groth to reach the third round, the Rod by lobbing the 6-ft-4in (1.93m) Aus- ing in momentum year by year. It Tickets are now available on- Laver Arena crowd settled in to watch tralian repeatedly when he lumbered is a highlight in Qatari sporting online at www.qatartennis.org and former world number one Hewitt try forward in desperation. calendar. This is a special year for starting today, they will be availa- to extend his illustrious singles career Murray has trounced both his first us as we are celebrating our 80th ble at City Center mall, Landmark for at least another two days. round opponents and Portuguese 32nd year of presence in Qatar, and we mall, Lagoona mall and Villaggio. Eighth-seeded Spaniard Ferrer seed Joao Sousa is next in the firing line. have shared a strong partnership In the run up to the tourna- played the villain to perfection, how- Since her back-to-back titles at with Qatar Tennis Federation from ment, Total is also organizing ever, ending the two-times grand slam Melbourne Park in 2012-13, two injury- the beginning” said Mohannadi. competitions on its Facebook page champion’s record 20th campaign at blighted years have kept Azarenka For the tournament, Total TotalQatar, offering VIP tickets for Melbourne Park with an emphatic 6-2 from claiming a third but the power- will set up a booth in the public the semi-final and final matches of 6-4 6-4 victory. ful Belarusian is looking dangerous. area, and is inviting the public to the tournament, as well as valua- Not that renowned street-fighter The former world number one, join them not only in the world ble gifts in its booth competitions. Hewitt went with a whimper. He seeded 14th here, hammered Mon- fought to the last even when defeat tenegro’s Danka Kovinic 6-1 6-2 at was inevitable. Margaret Court Arena to set up a “Every time I play out here at Rod match with Naomi Osaka and offered AUSTRALIAN OPEN RESULTS Laver Arena, it’s like a second home,” some chilling words for the Japanese Men’s singles Women’s singles the 34-year-old Adelaide native told qualifier. She remains on course for a the fans after a typically pugnacious mouth-watering fourth-round clash 2nd round 2nd round display in which he cursed a line judge with Spanish Wimbledon runner-up Bernard Tomic (AUS) bt Simone Bolelli (ITA) 6-4, 6-2, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5; Dudi Sela (ISR) and mouthed off at the chair umpire. Muguruza, who crushed Belgian Kirsten bt Fernando Verdasco (ESP) 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-6 (7/4); Andrey Kuznetsov (RUS) bt Angelique Kerber (GER x7) bt Alexandra Dulgheru (ROM) 6-2, 6-4; Madison Bren- “Playing for Australia has always Flipkens 6-4 6-2. Jeremy Chardy (FRA x30) 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/5); Gael Monfils (FRA x23) bt Nico- gle (USA) bt Johanna Larsson (SWE) 7-5, 4-6, 6-1; Laura Siegemund (GER) bt Jelena been my biggest honour ... Wawrinka eased past 37-year- las Mahut (FRA) 7-5, 6-4, 6-1; Stephane Robert (FRA) bt Rajeev Ram (USA) 6-1, Jankovic (SRB x19) 3-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4; Annika Beck (GER) bt Timea Bacsinszky (SUI I feel fortunate to finish here.” old qualifier Stepanek 6-2 6-3 6-4 in 6-7 (6/8), 4-6, 7-5, 7-5; Milos Raonic (CAN x13) bt Tommy Robredo (ESP) 7-6 (8/6), x11) 6-2, 6-3; Victoria Azarenka (BLR x14) bt Danka Kovinic (MNE) 6-1, 6-2; Naomi The scandal over alleged match- the Hisense Arena and the Swiss next 7-6 (7/5), 7-5; Viktor Troicki (SRB x21) bt Tim Smyczek (USA) 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 Osaka (JPN) bt Elina Svitolina (UKR x18) 6-4, 6-4; Barbora Zahlavova Strycova fixing in tennis that has clouded the faces another Czech in Lukas Rosol. (7/4); Lukas Rosol (CZE) bt Jack Sock (USA x25) 7-6 (8/6), 7-6 (7/5), 6-3; Stanis- (CZE) bt Vania King (USA) 7-6 (7/5), 6-4; Garbine Muguruza (ESP x3) bt Kirsten Flip- tournament’s opening days lingered Thirteenth seed Milos Raonic con- las Wawrinka (SUI x4) bt Radek Stepanek (CZE) 6-2, 6-3, 6-4; David Ferrer (ESP x8) kens (BEL) 6-4, 6-2; Johanna Konta (GBR) bt Zheng Saisai (CHN) 6-2, 6-3; Denisa on though with even Hewitt being tinued to shape as a dark horse, beating bt Lleyton Hewitt (AUS) 6-2, 6-4, 6-4; Steve Johnson (USA x31) bt Thomaz Belluci Allertova (CZE) bt Sabine Lisicki (GER x30) 6-3, 2-6, 6-4; Ekaterina Makarova (RUS quizzed about online speculation Tommy Robredo 7-6(5) 7-6(5) 7-5. (BRA) 6-3, 6-2, 6-2; Feliciano Lopez (ESP x18) bt Guido Pella (ARG) 7-6 (7/2), 6-7 x21) bt Tatjana Malek (GER) 6-4, 6-2; Madison Keys (USA x15) bt Yaroslava Shve- that some of his past matches had Teenager Osaka gave a bow to (4/7), 7-6 (7/3), 6-7 (8/10), 6-4; John Isner (USA x10) bt Marcel Granollers (ESP) 6-3, dova (KAZ) 6-7 (4/7), 6-3, 6-3; Ana Ivanovic (SRB x20) bt Anastasija Sevastova been implicated. thrilled Japanese fans after dump- 7-6 (8/6), 7-6 (7/2); John Millman (AUS) bt Gilles Muller (LUX) 4-6, 6-4, 6-2, 4-6, (LAT) 6-3, 6-3; Varvara Lepchenko (USA) bt Lara Arruabarrena (ESP) 7-6 (9/7), 6-4; “Good luck taking me on with it,” he ing 18th seed Elina Svitolina 6-4 6-4, 7-5; Joao Sousa (POR x32) bt Santiago Giraldo (COL) 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 6-1; Andy Murray Zhang Shuai (CHN) bt Alize Cornet (FRA) 6-3, 6-3; Karolina Pliskova (CZE x9) bt Julia said angrily at the post-match media continuing her impressive main draw (GBR x2) bt Sam Groth (AUS) 6-0, 6-4, 6-1 Goerges (GER) 7-6 (7/5), 6-1 conference, his three children sitting debut at a grand slam .

Friendly Cup begins in Doha

Qatar Cricket team players pose with officials of Qatar Cricket Association before yesterday’s Twenty20 encounter of the Friendly Cup against Saudi Arabia National Team at the Asian Town Cricket Stadium. The two teams will play a 50-over game today, followed by another Twenty20 match tomorrow. RIGHT: Action from yesterday’s first Twenty20 match. Pic: Abdul/The Peninsula www.thepeninsulaqatar.com PAGE | 20 PAGE | 21

De Villiers Saleh, Ali fired up wants Proteas to for Commercial strengthen coaching Bank Qatar Masterss

FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 • 12 Rabia II 1437 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar Impressive Qatar aim to continue consistent run

FOOTBALL: AFC U23 AFC U23 Championship It doesn’t matter how CHAMPIONSHIP Quarter-Finals: Fixtures many points we had Today Japan vs Iran at Abdullah Bin Khalifa in the first round first round is already finished and I Stadium, 4.30pm think we did quite well. We got three because it’s only one Qatar vs DPR Korea at points in each game, each game was Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, 7.30pm game, says Qatar different and we preformed quite well,” Tomorrow coach Sanchez added Sanchez. “We have what is going to be a Korea Republic vs Jordan - very tough game because DPR Korea Suhaim Bin Hamad Stadium Lekhwiya players and officials celebrate their win at the Sheikh Jassim Cup at Al Ahli Stadium yesterday. have a team that deserves to be in this United Arab Emirates vs Iraq - The Penisnula round. They have a lot of strength in Grand Hamad Stadium Lekhwiya defeated Al Sadd 4-1. Picture by: Baher/The Peninsula the team and we are going to try to play a good game, to perform well team work. We will focus mainly on DOHA: Qatar coach Felix Sanchez and get into the next round. our team spirit and also on the team’s stressed his side’s perfect record in the “We know we have in front of us mentality and physical condition, so group stages of the AFC U23 Cham- a really good team, so our objective is in the next match we will have to do Lekhwiya trounce Al Sadd pionship will count for little as the only to think about this game and after our very best.” tournament hosts prepare to take on that we will see what is the next step.” Meanwhile, Iran coach Moham- DPR Korea in the quarter-finals today. DPR Korea, meanwhile, qualified mad Khakpour said collective strength Sanchez’s side notched impres- for the last eight of the competition will make Japan a difficult team to sive wins over China, Iran and Syria after finishing in a three-way tie in beat as his team prepare to take on to win Sheikh Jassim Cup to finish on top of Group A with a max- Group B alongside Saudi Arabia and the East Asian giants in the quarter- imum nine points. Thailand, advancing thanks to having finals today. But despite DPR Korea only scrap- scored more goals to keep their hopes Japan, who are aiming to qualify ing into the last eight as runners-up in of a first appearance at the Olympic for a sixth straight Olympic Games in The Peninsula Group B after picking up two points Games since 1976 alive. Brazil later this year, won Group B with from their three games, Sanchez is “After qualifying from the group a 100% record to advance to the last only focused on steering Qatar into stage to the quarter-final, we have to eight with Makoto Teguramori mak- DOHA: Qatar Stars League (QSL) the next round. face Qatar, the host,” said DPR Korea ing full use of his squad having made winners Lekhwiya SC trounced Al “We start the quarter-finals now, coach Yun Jong-su , who will be with- 10 changes for Tuesday’s 2-1 win over Sadd 4-1 to win the one-off match so there is no time for mistakes,” said out Ri Il-jin due to suspension. Saudi Arabia. of the Sheikh Jassim Cup. Spanish coach Sanchez, who will be “It’s going to be a very, very tough Iran claimed second spot in Group Yesterday at the Al Ahli Sta- without Moez Ali due to suspension. match so we have to put all of our A behind tournament hosts Qatar, with dium, coach Djamel Belmadi side “At this time it doesn’t matter how effort into the next match. The play- Khakpour also rotating his squad over pumped in two quick goals in the many points we had in the first round ers will have to do their best and it’s their three games. second half to take the game away because it’s only one game.” going to be a very interesting match. “The games are so close to each from Al Sadd and to avenge last Qatar are the top scorers in the “If we are to qualify for the Olym- other, the teams have to use what- year’s defeat at the hands of the tournament with nine goals in three pics it’s going to be the first time in 40 ever players they have to manage their Wolves in the same event. games, with both Abdelkarim Hassan years, so we’ll do our best. energy, but what I see of the Japan Last year, Al Sadd had regained and Ahmed Alaa scoring four goals “The strength of our team is the team there are 23 players very close the Cup by defeating Lekhwiya 3-2. each to lead the scorers’ chart. “The team work, because football is about to each other,” said the Iran coach Lekhwiya started proceed- while talking to reporters. ings on an impressive note to take “They follow the rules and play an early 18th minute lead through the same way, so there’s not much Ismail Mohammad. difference between them. Whoever Thereafter, both teams tried to will play will do the role they’re given unsettle the rival defence but with- to them and that’s the good thing for out any success. Japan. The teams went into the half “The hard thing about playing the time break with Lekhwiya lead- Japan team is they don’t have a star, ing 1-0. On resumption, Lekhwiya they have a team. They play together increased lead in the very first as a team and that’s the great thing minute with Mohamed Razaq find- about them. ing the back of the net. “We have to watch them all because More goals were in the store they don’t have one player to mark who with Lekhwiya netting the third can change the game. They are really goal of the match through Nam hard workers and I believe it’s going Tae Hee to compound the misery to be a very tough game tomorrow.” for Al Sadd. Iran are aiming to qualify for the Coach Jesualdo Ferreira side Olympic Games for the first time since pulled one back in the 60th minute 1976 and have lost just once in the through the efforts of Mashaal Qas- tournament so far, slipping to a 2-1 sim to make it 3-1. Qatar coach Felix Sanchez and DPR Korea coach Yun Jong-su, pose defeat at the hands of Qatar, which Vladimir Weiss put the issue Lekhwiya’s Ismail Mohammad celebrates after scoring a goal against Al for a picture after a press conference on the eve of the AFC U23 came between wins over Syria and beyond doubt by scoring, Lekhwi- Championship in Doha. China. ya’s fourth goal . Sadd during the Sheikh Jassim Cup at Al Ahli Stadium yesterday. Captain Hassan leading by example for hosts at AFC U23

The Peninsula with a 4-2 triumph against Syria. more advantage. By God’s grace we per- Qatar captain His four goals have made him the joint formed well [against Syria] and we have top scorer along with team-mate Ahmed qualified to the quarter-finals as group Abdelkarim Hassan DOHA: Abdelkarim Hassan has been in Alaaledin but Abdelkarim’s influence goes winners. celebrates after exemplary form at the both ends of the beyond his goal-scoring exploits, with the “We are doing a great job and we want scoring a goal pitch as Qatar stormed into knockout stage 22-year-old skipper keeping the Qatar to continue the same way.” during the AFC U23 and the Qatari captain has vowed to con- machine running smoothly on the pitch. Abdelkarim’s appointment as captain of Championship in this tinue to lead by example as the AFC U23 “Being the captain is a big responsibil- the under 23s is understandable given that file picture. Championship hosts look to maintain their ity. I try to talk to my players on the field he has already amassed over 40 caps for 100% record when they face DPR Korea in and make them calm and comfortable but the senior national team and in addition to today’s quarter-final clash at the Jassim I also have to push them in a positive way the threat he poses in attack he also forms a Bin Hamad Stadium. when needed,” said the 2012-13 Qatar Stars solid defensive partnership with Al Annabi After bagging a brace as Qatar came League Young Player of the Year, who is team-mate Ahmed Yasser Abdulrahman. from a goal down to defeat China 3-1 in the also one of the youngest ever players to fea- “We are the most experienced play- group Group A opener, the Al Sadd centre ture in the AFC Champions League having ers in the team. We play in the senior team back was on target in the following 2-1 win debuted against Esteghlal in 2011 aged just 17. also, so we have the experience to protect over Iran and again as the tournament hosts “I try to join the attack and support the our goal. Inshallah we hope to continue sealed their place in the knockout stage front line whenever I can. It gives my team in this way.”

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER Minimum: 14o C Maximum: 24o C

FAJR 05.01 am ZUHR 11.45 am MAGHRIB 05.12 pm HIGH TIDE 04:15 - 15:00 Misty to foggy at places first and becomes mod- SHOROOK 06.20 am ASR 02.49 pm ISHA 06.42 pm LOW TIDE 11:15 - 21:15 erate temperature during the day with some clouds and relatively cold by night.

24 FRIDAY 22 JANUARY 2016 MORNING BREAK

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A man and a woman play their accordions and sing as they ride a horse-drawn sleigh while celebrating the Kolyada holiday (Pull Kalyada to the oak) yesterday in Martsiyanauka, some 110km east of Belarusian capital Minsk.

Spain’s PM falls to practical joke on radio

AFP so far fallen flat. A presenter at Radio The fake Puigdemont then asked off... and we’re probably as surprised Flaixbac called the Moncloa presidency him if they could meet, which Rajoy as you are,” he told the Spanish leader. INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY in the Spanish capital pretending to agreed to readily, depending on how Clearly caught off guard, Rajoy be working for Carles Puigdemont, a negotiations to form a government responded that “this is not very serious.” MADRID: “I have a very free schedule”: separatist politician who was voted in were going. The joke made waves in Spain yes- Spain’s embattled incumbent prime as new Catalonia leader earlier this “I think I can call you on Mon- terday, sparking mostly good-natured A live station minister fell prey to a practical joke month to the fury of Madrid. day and depending on where we are.. reactions, including from within Rajoy’s serving street when an imitator pretending to be Cata- Transferred to Rajoy’s secretary, we will fix a date,” he told the fake conservative Popular Party (PP). food during lonia’s new separatist leader managed she told him the prime minister was Puigdemont. Rafael Hernando — spokesman for the opening to speak to him on the phone on radio. in a meeting but would soon be free. “I have a very free schedule and the PP’s parliamentary group — said it of Street Food The improbably successful joke Unable to believe his luck, a Puig- we could meet 24 or 48 hours after.” showed that Rajoy was willing to chat Doha Thursday broadcast yesterday by a radio station demont imitator at the radio station Unable to keep the imposture going with a man who wants to lead Catalo- nights at Doha in Spain’s Catalonia region, where an found himself on the phone minutes any longer, the radio presenter inter- nia to independence from Spain, and Marriott Hotel. independence movement is gathering later with the prime minister, and a sur- vened and told Rajoy that it was in fact with whom he is therefore at odds. Photo: Qassim pace, is another blow for Mariano Rajoy prisingly cordial conversation began. an imitator on a radio station who was “I’m sure that Mr Rajoy would like Rahmatullah whose attempts to form a government “How’s life?” said Rajoy, before speaking to him. Mr Puigdemont to call him for real,” following inconclusive elections have exchanging a pleasantry. “We didn’t think we would pull this he told reporters. Italian director Asia’s cleanest village struggles with tourist influx Scola dies at 84 AFP Reuters

MAWLYNNONG, INDIA: In the tiny ham- let of Mawlynnong in India’s far northeast, ROME: Italian director plastic is banned and spotless paths are lined Ettore Scola (pictured), with flowers — but its reputation as Asia’s whose Oscar-nomi- cleanest village has proved a mixed blessing. nated films chronicled Until 2003 no tourists visited the remote the growing pains, class community of 500 inhabitants high in the divisions and frustrated mountains of Meghalaya state, which had idealisms of 20th cen- no roads and was accessible only by foot. tury Italy, has died at Home to the Khasi tribal people, Mawlyn- the age of 84, his fam- nong is famous for being a rare matrilineal ily said. society, where property and wealth are passed Scola died in a on from the mother to her youngest daughter Rome hospital late on and children take their mother’s surname. Tuesday night after In recent years, the village has become being in a coma for several days. known for another reason — its exceptional Born in a small town in southern Italy, he cleanliness, far removed from the noise and directed some of the world’s greatest actors, includ- dirt of India’s big cities. ing Sophia Loren, Marcello Mastroianni, Fanny Bamboo dustbins stand at every corner, Ardant and Jack Lemmon. volunteers sweep the streets at regular inter- One of his most acclaimed films was the 1977 vals and large signs order visitors to throw “A Special Day”, which tells the story of a chance away plastic packaging: littering is sternly encounter of a few hours between Mastroianni, frowned upon. playing a queer character about to be deported “We clean every day because our grand- by fascists, and Loren as a repressed, sentimen- parents and our ancestors have taught us how tal housewife married to a hardcore follower of to clean the village and the surrounding area, dictator Benito Mussolini. because it’s good for our health,” said Baniar “Ettore Scola had a refined intelligence, a beau- Mawroh, a teenager sitting at the entrance of tiful type of irony about him, and he was a real her small but gleaming family home. gentleman,” Loren told Italian television. After the village built its first road 12 years “A Special Day” was nominated for an Oscar ago, a journalist from Discover India travel Khasi tribe members in the village of Mawlynnong in the northeastern Indian state of Meghalaya. RIGHT: A child uses a bamboo for best foreign film and Mastroianni was a nom- magazine wrote a now-infamous article nam- trash bin placed along a road in the village. inee for best actor. “He was an incredible and ing it the cleanest village in Asia. acute master in interpreting Italy, its society and The trickle of tourists became a flood, tourism development but fears for the impact spread of disease. national image of rubbish-strewn high- its changes,” Prime Minister Matteo Renzi said in a with visitors now reaching 250 a day in high of the vistor influx. “Christian missionaries told our ances- ways and monuments under his Clean India tribute. Scola, who started work as a screenwriter season, swelling the village’s population by “There’s no more privacy. A woman tors: you can protect yourself from the plague campaign. in 1953 and directed his first big film, “Let’s Talk 50 percent. is washing her clothes, she’s being photo- (cholera) only if you maintain good hygiene, “I was amazed to know that there is such a About Women”, in 1964, was a student of Vitto- But the accolades have brought several graphed,” he said. be it at home, with food, on your land, in the village in remote northeast Meghalaya which rio De Sica and his 1974 film “We All Loved Each downsides. “That social bond which binds the village village, or for your body,” Khongthohrem said. is so passionately carrying the mission of Other So Much” was a tribute to the neo-realist “Now there is noise pollution. I’ve talked together is disintegrating,” he said. Mawlynnong maintained its fastidious cleanliness for years,” he said. director who died that year. to the village council which has written to habits and has gone on to other achievements, While the pristine village is proud of its It tells the story of three idealists who fight as the government to build a new parking lot Cholera outbreak eradicating open defecation — prevalent across achievements, some believe it must limit vis- partisans during the Nazi occupation and follows further away,” said Rishot Khongthohrem, Mawlynnong’s concern for hygiene much of rural India — with toilets for each of itor numbers to protect the wellbeing of its them over decades with the backdrop of events 51, a guesthouse owner. emerged about 130 years ago when an out- its approximately 95 households. inhabitants. such as strikes, labour unrest and terrorism as Deepak Laloo, a former official of the break of cholera struck. The village has even been hailed by Prime “They must learn to regulate the number Italy was transformed from an agricultural back- Meghalaya Tourism Development Forum, With no medical facilities in the village, Minister Narendra Modi in an autumn radio of tourists and to say no at some point,” tour- water to a world industrial power. advised the village in the early stages of its cleanliness was seen as vital to prevent the address imploring Indians to erase the poor ism expert Laloo said.