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Emir meets Mali President Expansion of Prices of fish, Doha Port seafood to in full swing DOHA: The expansion of the Doha Port is going on in full swing and the aim is to increase its capacity to handle 750,000 be regulated containers a year. There is pressure on the exist- ing port due to increasing imports Move to curb price manipulation amid a booming national economy. And, the first and second DOHA: The government is representative body, the Central phases of the New Doha Port, taking steps to regulate the Municipal Council (CMC), of the work on which is going on, are prices of fish and other seafood economy ministry’s decision. The to be merged and the third phase items by fixing their pricing on civic ministry’s communication to that was originally slated to be a daily basis. the CMC was in response to the completed in 2030 is now planned It is understood that the price latter’s recommendations to help to be over by 2020. determining process might change improve the local fishing industry The Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani with the President of the Republic of Mali, Ibrahim Boubacar This means that the container the current supply system which and back Qatari fishermen. Keita, at the Emiri Diwan yesterday. Relations between the two countries, ways to enhance them and issues handling capacity of the new port is dominated by middlemen. Plans are also afoot to set up of common interest were reviewed. will be six million by 2020, a dec- Fishermen get paid less for Qatari Fishermen’s Association to ade before originally scheduled. their catch and prices are often help the industry have a say and The new port’s capacity during manipulated, with consumers suf- better organise itself. The jetties the first phase was planned to be fering due to soaring rates. in Doha, Al Wakrah and Al Khor two million containers annually The Ministry of Economy and will soon be expanded with added by 2016. Commerce seems to be inspired facilities. The government is pres- Clear agreement on Syria must: FM The second phase was origi- by its intervention in the Central ently working on the plan. nally slated to be completed in Fruits and Vegetables Market in The CMC had also demanded DOHA/MONTREUX and monitoring mechanisms, he National Coalition for the Syrian 2020 with the container-handling early 2011, when it began fixing that land be allotted near Doha (SWITZERLAND): Ceasing added. Revolutionary and Opposition facility doubling to four million. the prices of perishables on a Port to build facilities to manu- all military operations, provid- “My country cannot defend any Forces to participate in the confer- The first two phases are now daily basis. facture fishing gears. The govern- ing safe corridors for humani- regime that commits massacres ence as “difficult and courageous”. being merged to quicken the com- The Ministry’s Consumer ment is also working on this plan. tarian assistance and setting against unarmed civilian dem- “Such decision is of great sig- pletion of the third phase by the Protection Department (CPD) has The municipal ministry has, in a specific time-frame for nego- onstrations, as this regime has nificance for it amounts to a con- end of the current decade. been able to stabilise the prices of its communication to the CMC, tiation are among the basic done since the beginning of the firmation of and full support for The above plans were pre- fruits and vegetables with the daily also given details of the various easy requirements for the ongoing revolution. Our duty compels us the option of political solution,” he sented by the transport minister price determination. A draft deci- and soft financing modes of the Geneva II conference to become not to deceive the peoples and not said, adding, “If the party advocat- at the weekly meeting of the State sion of the economy ministry to fix state-owned Qatar Development a success, the Foreign Minister to cave in at moments of despair. ing the security solution continues Cabinet here yesterday, Qatar the prices of fish and other seafood Bank that are exclusively meant H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al It is unacceptable for anyone to to adopt such approach, the situ- News Agency (QNA) reported. items and change the supply system for Qatari fishermen. Attiyah said yesterday. believe that they have come here ation would seriously deteriorate Plans are also afoot to partly has got initial approval. The evening shift at the Central Addressing the conference, the to seal their victory over the and threaten the sovereignty and privatise the state-run transport According to the Ministry of Fish Market was begun on an Foreign Minister said that the other party. Instead, everybody territorial integrity of Syria and company, Mowasalat, and make it Municipality and Urban Planning, experimental basis on CMC’s rec- concerned parties should also are supposed to have come here the unity of its people. It would public by floating an initial public the price fixing system should be ommendations and it is expected work to implement the outcome to realise the rights of the Syrian also pose a threat to the security offering (IPO). introduced soon. The draft decision that the system might continue. of Geneva I and make efforts people, achieve their legitimate and stability of the neighbouring A proposal to the above effect consists of rules and regulations of The CMC had also recommended to reach a concrete and clear aspirations and preserve the unity states and international peace was also presented as part of the how seafood sales and pricing at the that ways and means be mulled to agreement. of Syria ‘s people and territory,” and security”. transport company’s future plans Central Market is to be regulated. encourage citizens to invest in fish- A specific time-frame for nego- said Al Attiyah. THE PENINSULA by the transport minister. In a detailed communication, ing industry to provide it a boost. tiation should be set along with The Foreign Minister Continued on page 6 THE PENINSULA the civic ministry has told public THE PENINSULA implementation instruments described the decision of the See also page 10 Continued on page 6 THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 02 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME Non-invasive diabetes test could be possible WCMC-Q, HMC team uses swab of saliva for testing

DOHA: A research finding by the study. He said: “To make the Weill Cornell Medical College in study happen we needed saliva, Qatar (WCMC-Q) and Hamad blood and urine samples from Medical Corporation (HMC) diabetics and people without could lead to a quick, non- diabetes. Many diabetics also invasive screening for diabe- have skin problems and visit the tes, allowing patients who don’t Dermatology Clinic at HMC. We know they have the disease to could find healthy and diabetic access treatment quicker. volunteers for our study in one Currently, doctors test for dia- place. This is essential for data betes using blood or urine analy- analysis since we needed to rule ses. But these are inconvenient out potential influences that may and not suitable for a comprehen- be due to differences in sample sive public screening programme collection.” as they generally have to be car- The study was conducted in ried out by a nurse or doctor. Qatar and involved 369 people Researchers have discovered a — about half Arabs and half way of testing for diabetes using your lifestyle you’re slowly but Asians. It is the first time that a swab of an individual’s saliva. continuously destroying your a new research technique called It means that samples could eas- body. It’s like running an engine metabolomics has been used in ily be taken in schools or sports using the wrong kind of oil.” a diabetes study of this size on associations, or during regu- The researchers have discov- saliva, plasma, and urine samples lar visits to the dentist, making ered that diabetics have a reduced in parallel. Such is its importance implementation of the screening amount of 1,5-anhydroglucitol that it is being published in the programmes and early interven- (1,5-AG) in their saliva. This is Journal of Clinical Endocrinology tion more viable. a substance similar to sugar. & Metabolism. Dr Karsten Suhre (pictured), Scientists have long known that Dr Khaled Machaca, Associate Professor of Physiology and 1,5-AG can be used as a biomar- Dean of Research, WCMC-Q, Biophysics at WCMC-Q, said it is ker for diabetes in blood but the said: “This study provides proof important to diagnose diabetics as discovery by WCMC-Q and HMC of concept for the feasibility of early as possible to allow them to that it can be tested for via a swab identifying biomarkers for com- access treatment, and the saliva of the mouth increases its impor- plex diseases such as diabetes in test is one way of expediting that. tance as a quick, non-invasive Qatar. The discovery has huge “Diabetes is a vicious disease test. potential to improve diabetes as initially when you get it you Dr Mohamed Mohy El Din screening and detection in Qatar. don’t feel any different; you can Selim, Senior Consultant at the This is significant given the high live for years without knowing Dermatology Clinic at HMC, rate of diabetes in the country.” about it but if you don’t adapt collaborated with WCMC-Q on THE PENINSULA India’s Mahindra Holiday & Resorts coming to Doha DOHA: Mahindra Holiday & Resorts India spread across the globe. It has a big presence in Limited will launch its Doha operations on Dubai. It will enhance the level of services and acces- January 24. It is part of the $162bn Mahindra sibility to residents in line with Qatar’s growth and Group, whose reach spans across sectors such as vision of its leaders, Prashant Singh Sisodia, Head utility vehicles, IT, tractors, automotive indus- of Operations, Footprint Marketing WLL, told a try, aerospace, energy, financial services, logistics, press conference, attended by Sanjay Saini, Director, retail, two-wheelers and real estate. Footprint Marketing. Dignitaries from Qatar and The presence of Club Mahindra in Qatar presents senior executive of Club Mahindra from India and greater interest for communities as its resorts are Dubai will attend the launch. THE PENINSULA

THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 04 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME New accommodation for workers in Industrial Area 150 housing units on three floors ‘more spacious and convenient’

DOHA: A new compound with a large number of houses and facilities for expatriate work- ers has opened in the Industrial Area. Some companies have shifted their employees such as drivers, storekeepers and merchandis- Officials at the event. ers to the compound from the common congested single worker accommodations in the area. Ministry’s security press Companies have rented hous- ing units in the compound from a builder to accommodate their employees. to print bank documents The compound on Street No. 18 has over 50 housing units each DOHA: The Interior Ministry The signing was attended by on three floors and each floor with has signed a memorandum of Major Faisal Al Ansari, Head of four homes with four rooms. understanding (MoU) with Police Press Section, Sandeep Unlike the usual single worker Commercial Bank for security Chouhan, COO of Commercial accommodations, each house has printing. Bank Group and Ali Haimani, three bathrooms, a sitting room The Security Press under the Head of Operations. and a kitchen. ministry will print cheque books Abdullah Al Ansari said it is The compound also has parking and other bank documents for the right of financial and banking facilities and 24-hour security. the bank in addition to providing institutions to ensure that their Some expats who have moved related services such as storage. products meet international to the compound by their employ- The press will also print credit standards, so that they can meet ers told this newspaper that they cards, magnetic cards, EMV their customers’ requirements find the new place more conven- chips and NFC cards. and aspirations. ient than places where they had Storage, lamination and dis- Abdullah Saleh said the ini- been accommodated. patch services for cards will also tiative by the ministry to set up “We had been living in a con- be provided by the press. the Press is a boon to financial gested place before and each room The MoU was signed by institutions in Qatar as they had was shared by eight employees. The new housing compound in the Industrial Area. Brigadier Engineer Abdul Azeez to print cheque books and other “There were only three bath- Abdullah Al Ansari, Director bank documents abroad. rooms for over 70 people. But here “Rooms are more specious here connection and the compound will Asked if any low-income work- of Logistics Department at the This was a huge burden on only four people are in one room and these are properly built have a restaurant and a super- ers had been accommodated in ministry, and Abdullah Saleh them and caused delays in and each room has a bathroom,” houses unlike the place we lived market soon. the compound, residents said Al Raisi, CEO of Commercial approval of models and the said a Sri Lankan driver working before. Also these houses have “We have been told that a res- they had so far met only peo- Bank at the bank headquarters extent to match specifications, here for more than a year. kitchens with all facilities.” taurant and a supermarket will ple working as drivers and in Dafna. he added. THE PENINSULA A Filipino working as a mer- Some residents said the soon open in the compound,” said merchandisers. chandiser in a retail shop said, houses are also likely to get WiFi a driver living in the compound. THE PENINSULA 5,075 visit paediatric clinic in 2013

DOHA: The Paediatric About 250 participants take blood away from the heart Cardiology Section at Hamad attended the symposium organ- to the body are improperly con- Medical Corporation (HMC) ized by HMC in collaboration with nected, due to abnormal develop- has seen 5,075 visits to the out- The Hospital for Sick Children ment of the heart during the first patient clinic in 2013, according (SickKids) Toronto, Canada. eight weeks of pregnancy. to a senior official. “The symposium allowed us “We provided an excellent These included 1,355 patients to discuss the current expertise overview of progress achieved in on initial referral, and the sec- here and abroad in the manage- Qatar in the treatment of con- tion provided 810 consultations ment of congenital heart disease, genital heart conditions. Speakers for inpatients, said Dr Reema a condition which is on the rise in discussed new developments in Yousef Kamal, Chief of Paediatric Qatar,” said Senior Consultant of the field. This was a great initia- Cardiology at HMC. Paediatric Cardiac Anaesthesia at tive,” he said. The section is the primary pro- HMC, Dr Syed Abdul Aziz Syed Dr Andrew Redington, Chief of vider of cardiovascular diagnostic Zin. Paediatric Cardiology at SickKids, and treatment services in Qatar, Professor Sir Magdi Yacoub, spoke on the optimal model of providing comprehensive services Paediatric Cardiac Surgeon, care for children and adults with for the growing population. Founder and Director of Magdi congenital heart disease while Dr Kamal was addressing the Yacoub Research Network, Qatar HMC consultants spoke on pae- first Congenital Heart Disease Cardiovascular Research Centre diatric cardiology, cardiac surgery, Symposium held to discuss lat- and Chain of Hope Charity, spoke cardiac anaesthesia and inten- est advancements in the diagnosis on surgery for transposition of the sive care to highlight the current and treatment of congenital heart great arteries, a congenital heart management of patients in Qatar. disease. defect where the large vessels that THE PENINSULA Ashghal lines up projects to develop Al Ruwais city DOHA: The Public Works Sharq reports. Ashghal is Authority (Ashghal) also developing Al Shamal is working on several Road as part of express- projects to develop Al way projects. The project Ruwais City in the north includes the construction of the country to provide of service lanes along with necessary services to Al Shamal Road starting residents. from Doha via Al Duhayil A general hospital, a Intersection to Al Shamal primary health centre, City in the northern most three schools and two kin- part of the country. dergartens are among the New intersections will be projects. They also include built at Azghawa and Umm the development and Salal Mohammad and sev- expansion of the port, and eral will be renovated such construction of three docks as Al Kaaban Intersection for dhows and fishing boats. that connects to Al Huwaila Some facilities will be Road. built for ministries and gov- Work is in full swing to ernment organisations to develop Al Khor Road to cater to the people so they link it to Umm Barqa. need not come to Doha. The projects involve Separate premises will be more than 95km length of build to serve fishermen, Al roads. THE PENINSULA

QR1bn real estate deals last week DOHA: Real estate sale transactions worth QR1,014,512,961 were registered between January 12 and 16 at the Ministry of Justice. The Real Estate Registration Department at the min- istry said in its weekly report that properties included open plots, two-floor villas, annexes, residential buildings, houses and shops in Umm Salal, Al Khor, Al Shamal, Doha, Al Rayyan, Al Daayen and Al Wakra. QNA THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 05 IPO fully subscribed MPHC allocation details to be announced on January 30

DOHA: The Initial Public Mohamed bin Saleh Al Sada said: H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Offering (IPO) of shares rep- “We are delighted that this suc- Al Thani. We look forward to wel- resenting 25.725 percent cessful IPO has provided so many coming all new MPHC sharehold- of the issued share capital Qataris with an opportunity to ers at this exciting time for the of Mesaieed Petrochemical become shareholders in MPHC, company, he said. Holding Company (MPHC) has and participate in the prosperity The IPO was heavily sub- been successfully closed, Qatar and the success of Qatar and in scribed for. Allocation of shares Petroleum (QP) said yesterday. the future of the country’s petro- is expected to be finalised by and The IPO comprised 323,187,677 chemicals sector. announced on January 30, with ordinary shares, all of which were The success of the historic any refunds to shareholders to be subscribed for during the sub- IPO demonstrates the confidence made by the same date. scription period from December investors have in the strengths of Individual applicants will be 31 until the close of business on MPHC’s compelling story and the advised of their subscriptions January 21. attractiveness of the innovative by SMS. It is proposed that the The Minister of Energy and long-term savings programme shares will then be admitted to Industry and Chairman and the government has put in place trading on the Qatar Exchange Managing Director of QP H E Dr with the guidance of the Emir in February. THE PENINSULA THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 06 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME Premier meets ex-French PM Scottish landscape lensman wins Al Thani Grand Prix Fulton best among 25,000 from around the world with his ‘Winter Trees’

The Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani yesterday met former French Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin who was in Doha on a visit. Cabinet reiterates support for rights of Palestinians

DOHA: The Prime Minister firm international intervention and Interior Minister H E to compel the Israeli occupation Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin authorities to respect the interna- Khalifa Al Thani chaired the tional law and resolutions. weekly Cabinet session at the The Cabinet reiterated Qatar’s The Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage H E Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari and the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs H E Mohammed Al Rumaihi Emiri Diwan yesterday. firm support for the rights of with the recipients of Al Thani Photography Awards during the awards ceremony at the Sheraton Hotel yesterday. SHAIVAL DALAL Following the session, the the Palestinian people, the fore- BY RAYNALD C RIVERA Deputy Prime Minister and most of which being their right Field” taken in Scotland. awards consisted of jury award Winners of the major awards Minister of State for Cabinet to establish an independent state Incidentally, his Al Thani win- and the Chairman award which received cash and medals from Affairs H E Ahmed bin Abdullah with Jerusalem as its capital. DOHA: Scottish landscape ning photo was also an awesome all honour individual creativity. the International Federation of Al Mahmoud said the Cabinet The session approved draft photographer Robert Fulton is wintry sight but this time taken The very first recipient of the Photographic Art (FIAP). welcomed the outcome of the 20th memorandums of understanding the winner of the prestigious Al from Yellowstone National Park, Chairman Personal Award was Other awards given were Qatar session of Jerusalem Committee, on cooperation between General Thani Grand Prix at the 2013 known to experience one of the Doha-based Dino Palazzi for his Awards, Al Thani Gold Medals held in Marrakesh on January Tourism Authority and Qatar Al Thani Award Photography, harshest winters in the globe. photo “Modifying the blueprint”. Worldwide, Al Thani Gold Medals 17-18 under the chairmanship of Airways, Mowasalat and the besting over 25,000 from “This was taken in Yellowstone Chris Hinterobermaier, chair- for Qatar Entries, Special Awards King Mohamed VI of Morocco. supreme committee for projects around the world with his photo almost a year today, and tomorrow man of the organizing team, for Arabia and the Middle East, The Cabinet stressed the and heritage. “Winter Trees.” I’m going back to Yellowstone,” he lauded the quality of photography Author with Highest Points, importance of the final state- It reviewed a letter from the “I’m stunned, overwhelmed. explained of the winning photo of in Qatar and the region since the Medals for Top 10 Photo Clubs ment, including recommenda- Minister of Justice on the out- I don’t know how to express it. frost covered trees resplendent in Award was opened internationally and Al Thani Honour Gold Medal tions and positions, in the light come of the 29th session of the I’m grateful to the organisers for the snow blanketed immaculately in 2005. Award. of serious and escalating Israeli Arab Justice Ministers Council in giving me probably one of the white landscape. “The standard here is now at The awards ceremony which violations, aggressions and prac- Sana’a last November and took most memorable nights in my As the grand winner, Fulton is the same level internationally. In was attended by the Minister of tices that require an urgent and the appropriate decision. QNA life,” Fulton told the media after taking home $30,000 cash, a lim- fact three years ago, a Kuwaiti Culture, Arts, and Heritage Dr the awards night yesterday at ited edition Leica M6 Camera and won the Al Thani Grand Prix,” Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari, Sheraton Doha. a PSA gold medal. he said. also featured a 45-minute video Although he started rather late The theme of the 13th edition Indonesia came as a very strong featuring some of the best entries in photography, he was catapulted of the world’s largest annual salon contender this edition dominating in the competition. All the win- Doha Municipality shut to fame with his breathtaking of international photographic art the International Awards winning ning photos were also displayed shots of nature especially in his was “Discover the World” and a three out of six awards both in at the venue. home country. total of $80,000 was given away themed and general categories. Non-winners will all receive a 192 food outlets last year In 2011, he was declared the to more than 70 winners. Seven The Middle East Awards on the limited edition book containing UK’s Landscape Photographer of awards worth $7,000 were intro- other hand were won by Saudi some of the best photos in the DOHA: The Doha Municipality requirements to operating with- the Year for the photo “Winter duced this year. The new special Arabia, Kuwait and the UAE. contest. THE PENINSULA closed down 192 food outlets last out a valid licence. year for violating the health and A total of 5,528 tonnes of food safety regulations. were destroyed during the year According to the annual report that were found unfit for human Ecuadorean Food Festival opens of the health monitoring section consumption. The inspectors at the Municipality, municipal collected 1,363 food samples for inspectors conducted as high as laboratory tests, of which 17 were 32,000 inspections during the year found unfit for human consump- and recorded 3,587 violations, tion. Ninety samples didn’t meet a local Arabic daily reported the required standards and speci- yesterday. fication while 1,256 samples were The violations ranged from a found fit for consumption, said failure to meet health and safety the daily. THE PENINSULA Need to address root causes of Syria crisis Continued from page 1 citizens with freedom and dig- Invoking any excuses, such as nity before adopting their slogan the fight against terrorism, that of fight against terrorism?” asked would prevent addressing the Al Attiyah. root causes of the crisis, is merely Concluding his remarks, he a form of disruption and a denial said the Syrian people expected of the reality, said Al Attiyah. concrete outcomes from the The first Ecuadorean Food Festival opened at the Diplomatic Club on Tuesday. The 10-day festival was opened by Ambassador Kabalan Abi Saab “We are up against a regime meeting. and attended by top officials. Held in collaboration with the Ecuadorean embassy, it runs until January 31 from 7pm daily at the Pool Area. that considers the invocation of “Otherwise, this historic oppor- the “fight against terrorism” a tunity would be nothing more slogan to justify colonial control. than a repetition of previous It has however used such slo- international efforts that made Ooredoo’s Mozaic gan against its own people in a the Syrian people pay a heavy QTA campaign for private sector bid to win the admiration of the price as a result of ambiguity and very democratic countries whose lack of mechanisms to compel the GO App available democracy it has long ridiculed. parties concerned to implement Why does such regime, which is the agreements,” he said. stakeholders to sign tourism code on iPhones the actual perpetrator and spon- Later, he met the US Secretary sor of terrorism, not emulate of State John Kerry. DOHA: Qatar Tourism Development Director and Head unacceptable practices and behav- DOHA: Ooredoo’s new service, those countries by providing its THE PENINSULA Authority (QTA) yesterday of Tourism Industry Development iours, such as using tourism for Mozaic GO, which enables cus- launched a campaign invit- Committee, stressed the impor- illegal purposes. tomers to stream on-demand ing private sector stakehold- tance of the commitment to the The code also focuses on tourism films and series, has seen as ers in Qatar to sign the Private code. “The code sets out obliga- as a vehicle for individual and col- many as 5,000 downloads in its Warning to errant food outlets Sector Commitment to the tions with respect to visitors and lective fulfilment, where tourism first month, making it one of United Nations World Tourism the tourism industry, includ- is associated with entertainment, Qatar’s most popular original Continued from page 1 Organisation (UNWTO) Global ing respecting diverse cultures, leisure, and sport, offering access apps. More taxi and limousine companies are to be encouraged to help Code of Ethics for Tourism. facilitating visitors’ access to to new cultures and natural habi- Mozaic GO is now available for meet increasing demand for public transport, and soon more bus stops In signing the commitment, information needed during their tat. QTA’s campaign to encour- iPhone and iPad users, offering a and stations are to be built all over. Plans are underway to intro- stakeholders pledge to implement visit, creating a safe environment, age local tourism professionals to more portable way for custom- duce express public transport services as well. A draft law that would ethical principles of the code in and protecting visitors in crisis sign the code is part of a 17-month ers to watch on-demand films authorize the government to provide financial support to Mowasalat their policies and operations. The situations. agreement with UNWTO, which and series wherever they are. was referred by the State Cabinet to the Advisory Council for its review code is UNWTO’s core policy doc- “Sustainability, enrichment of involves the organisation updating More launches are in the proc- and recommendations. ument that serves as a blueprint society, and environmental pro- and creating benchmarked proc- ess, with plans for an Android OS The support is needed by the transport company in the form of for the development of sustainable tection are among the important esses within QTA. Smartphone and device launch government subsidy to sustain its extensive bus services. tourism. principles the code champions and Collaboration extends to devel- later in the year. It is understood that a law that was passed in 1990 and that regulates Adopted in 1999 by the UNWTO urges stakeholders to adopt. opment of a consistent and locally Ooredoo’s pioneering app food monitoring by the various municipalities is being amended and General Assembly and endorsed “This is in harmony with the relevant monitoring and quality enables users to watch content being made more stringent. Errant outlets, including food stores and by the UN General Assembly in National Tourism Sector Strategy control system across tourism on their devices by streaming eateries, are to be closed temporarily as punishment and details are to 2001, it guides the development 2030 to be launched soon through activities described in Law 6 of Mozaic’s rich library of interna- be put on the website of the ministry involved. A draft law containing of tourism in a way that maxim- which we will work with stake- 2012, also known as the Tourism tional content through 4G, 3G or the amendments was approved by the State Cabinet yesterday after ises socio-economic benefits of the holders to develop the tourism Law. In the second phase of the Wi-Fi. Ooredoo is extending its taking into consideration the recommendations of the Advisory Council. sector, while mitigating any nega- sector to play an active role in our agreement with UNWTO that offer of free access to all Mozaic The Advisory Council had recommended that errant outlets be closed tive impacts on society. As of last society and the national economy.” will soon be implemented, bench- GO content until end of February for two months instead of one, and their names be made public on the November, 187 tourism associa- The code states that tour- marks and standards for the 2014, so that customers can take website of the ministries that issue the closure decision. Municipal, tions across the world signed to ists should be informed of social MICE industry in Qatar will be advantage of unlimited Disney health, environment and economy ministries have the authority to code. traditions and encouraged to set, along with a plan to increase Channels, Disney Movies and order temporary closure of an outlet if it is found violating the food Hassan Abdulrahman respect them in the host coun- tourism training and education. ABC Studio Series anytime and quality and monitoring law. THE PENINSULA Al Ibrahim, QTA Strategy try. It renounces internationally THE PENINSULA anywhere. THE PENINSULA THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 MIDDLE EAST www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 07

Bahrain protest Mursi backers Iraq PM for call for 18 days of protests CAIRO: An Islamist alliance stand against backing deposed president Mohammed Mursi called for 18 days of protests from Friday, as Egypt on January 25 marks three years since the revolt that ousted his predecessor. militants The Anti-Coup Alliance said in a statement yesterday that pro- tests will last until February 11 — Government forces press offensive the day when Mursi’s predecessor, long-time ruler Hosni Mubarak, BAGHDAD: Iraqi Prime insurgency that followed the 2003 stepped down in early 2011 after Minister Nouri Al Maliki yes- US-led invasion. an 18-day uprising against his terday called for residents of Soldiers, policemen and SWAT decades-old regime. the conflict-hit province of forces have combined with Saturday, the third anniversary Anbar to “take a stand” against pro-government tribal allies of the 2011 revolt, promises to be anti-government fighters, as in an offensive that continued a tense day. the UN warned of worsening Wednesday against gunmen hold- Interim interior minister displacement. ing several neighbourhoods of Bahraini protesters hold bread and signs reading in Arabic “ Still dismissal “ during a demonstration, organ- Mohamed Ibrahim has also called His call came as government Ramadi, a journalist said. ised by people who were dismissed from their jobs because they attended anti-regime protests, outside the for demonstrations on that day forces pressed an offensive against The army said in a statement labour ministry in Isa Town, south of the capital Manama, yesterday. to counter what he said was an militants, including those affiliated that 13 militants were killed in Islamist “plot to spark chaos”, with the Al Qaeda-linked Islamic firefights there. an unusual appeal from the top State of Iraq and the Levant In Fallujah, meanwhile, shell- police official tasked with enforc- (ISIL), who overran parts of the ing in southern and central ing a law that restricts protests. Anbar provincial capital Ramadi neighbourhoods left one person Mursi supporters have staged weeks ago. dead and 10 people wounded on New mass purge in Turkey regular protests demanding his Diplomats have urged Baghdad Wednesday, a medic said. reinstatement despite a brutal to foster political reconciliation Residents of the city blame the ISTANBUL: Turkish authori- politicians and business leaders week debating the bill, which nota- government crackdown that has to undercut support for the mili- army for the shelling, but defence ties removed hundreds of police including Erdogan allies. bly calls for a greater government left more than 1,000 people killed tants, but with elections looming officials say the military is not from their posts yesterday in the At least 2,000 police and pros- say in appointments at the HSYK, since his ouster in July. in April, Maliki and others have responsible. latest mass purge following the ecutors have been dismissed or the country’s top independent The alliance said the objective taken a hard line and focused on The government has tweaked eruption of a damaging corrup- reassigned in recent weeks in what judicial body. of its protests was to “end the wide-ranging security operations. its language in recent days from tion scandal. critics have blasted as government But the opposition has been military rule which has commit- “I ask the people of the province referring to all anti-government The government action came efforts to stifle the investigation. using a variety of tactics to try ted most if not all the awful and — the tribes, the notables, and all fighters in Anbar simply as Al as parliament debated controver- The purge extended to the other to stall the discussions on what shameful crimes since January who live there — to be ready to Qaeda, and now uses terms such sial reforms to the judiciary that sectors at the weekend, with the it considers unconstitutional 25 2011 which peaked during the take a stand, to take serious action as gangs. have heightened the political crisis dismissal of high-ranking officials legislation. military coup” that ousted Mursi. against those dirty people, without And while Fallujah residents engulfing Prime Minister Recep at the top banking watchdog, com- “Nobody has faith in the rule of Mursi, Egypt’s first demo- making any sacrifices,” Maliki said and tribal sheikhs have said ISIL Tayyip Erdogan. munications regulatory body and law and the democracy anymore,” cratically elected president, was in his weekly televised address. has tightened its grip on the city Around 470 police were sacked state television. said Kemal Kilicdaroglu, leader removed by the army on July 3 He added, referring to Fallujah, in recent days, several other mili- or reassigned in the capital Dozens of people including the of main opposition Republican after mass protests against his another city in Anbar that is tant groups and anti-government Ankara, another 100 in Istanbul sons of ministers, and business People’s Party, as he unveiled its year-long rule. entirely in the control of anti- tribes have also been involved in and a dozen police chiefs in the leaders were rounded up on alle- new slogan ahead of the elections: The alliance said its protests government fighters: “It is time fighting government forces in both western port city of Izmir, local gations of bribery in construction “Turkey’s Unifying Power”. will be “non-violent... and peace- to finish this subject, and end the cities in Anbar. media reported. projects, money laundering, gold But the head of the Turkish ful”, but their rallies have often presence of gangs in this city, and Iraqi security forces, meanwhile, It followed a similar move on smuggling and illicit dealings with Bar Association, Metin Feyzioglu, turned into street clashes with save the people from their evil.” have recruited their own tribal Tuesday by the Supreme Board of Iran, setting off the worst crisis in defended the reforms, saying: “For Mursi opponents and security Parts of Ramadi and all of allies to fight alongside them. Judges and Prosecutors (HSYK) Erdogan’s 11-year rule. justice, we have to introduce an forces. Fallujah, both former insur- The United Nations warned which removed 96 judges and But the prime minister insists efficient, independent and impar- Meanwhile, a Cairo court gent bastions in Anbar west of on Tuesday of “an exponential prosecutors from their jobs. it is a “coup plot” by supporters tial system.” jailed three people for two years Baghdad, have been in the hands increase in the number of dis- The goverment has embarked of exiled Islamic cleric Fethullah The corruption scandal has for destroying a monument to of militants for weeks, the first placed and stranded families”, on a series of mass shake-ups in Gulen, a onetime AKP supporter, sparked new protests against those killed in mass protests that time anti-government fighters with more than 22,000 families state institutions since the launch to destabilise the government Erdogan after he faced anti-gov- unseated two Egyptian presidents have exercised such open control registered as internally displaced. in mid-December of an anti- ahead of March local elections. ernment demonstrations in June. since 2011, judicial sources said. in Iraqi cities since the peak of the AFP graft probe targeting several top The Turkish parliament is this AFP AFP THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 08 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

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Ukraine burns Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate

KRAINIAN Prime Minister Mykola Azarov called protesters who have been fighting state might for over two months now terrorists. His statement may Ube seen as the rant of a leader who has got fed up with demonstrators bravely camping at Kiev’s Independence The nine lives of ‘Russia’s Square in the bitter cold. However, it is more likely that Azarov’s statement reflects the dictatorial mindset of a regime that is out to strong-arm the public into toeing its line. The violent clashes peaked yesterday leading to the death of Osama bin Laden’ five protesters. BY HANNA KOZLOWSKA Scenes of burning tyres letting out dark acrid fumes were suicide bombings in the North Caucasus naming himself its leader — the Emir. reminiscent of near apocalyptic scenes in Kiev that in 2004 city of Volgograd, just several hundred The ultimate goal is to have a united, saw the peaceful Orange Revolution under Yulia Tymoshenko AMZAN Kadyrov, the miles from the Russian winter resort, independent emirate in the Caucasus, come to fruition. Kremlin-backed president of were carried out partially on Umarov’s ruled under Shariah law. Umarov’s President Viktor Yanukovich, before huddling with Chechnya, used an unortho- orders. leadership marked an era of increas- opposition leaders — one of whom is a former boxer — issued a Rdox method of announcing the Kadyrov’s Instagram statement about ing Islamic fundamentalism among the purported death of Russia’s number one Umarov’s death was, in fact, prompted Chechen insurgency. statement that he did not like bloodletting and wanted peace. terrorist: Instagram, the popular photo- by questions about the possible terrorist Saradzhyan doubts Umarov has been Scenes of burning tyres, policemen hauling protesters with sharing service often used for celebrity threat to the Sochi Olympics. Kadyrov killed, but said his death would be a a woman showing a wooden cross to discourage them, and the selfies. Kadyrov, an Instagram fan, claimed that Umarov’s death meant “tangible, but not mortal” blow to the wounded being treated replaced what earlier used to be sights posted a photo of himself and used the that the rebels would be so busy find- movement. of hundreds cooking meals in the protest zone or stealing forty caption to declare that Doku Umarov, ing new leaders that they’d be unable “If they lose him they won’t have winks as policemen kept watch. the leader of the Islamist insurgency to mount attacks. “Therefore, all talk someone else who has that political in Chechnya and self-branded “Emir of about a threat to the Olympics is com- weight among their sponsors and sup- The brutally cold weather didn’t dissuade thousands to the Caucasus” had been killed. Kadyrov pletely without foundation,” reads the porters,” he told FP. It would take “years rally against Yanukovich’s decision to sign a customs deal with claimed that he had “received a record- photo caption. and years” for someone to gain the same Russia. The European Union has warned Ukraine against any ing of a conversation by so-called emirs, Simon Saradzyhan of Harvard stature, he added. brutal crackdown on protesters. The in which they announce [Umarov’s] University’s Belfer Center for Science The information available on head of the European Commission, death, console one another, and discuss and International Affairs said Kadyrov’s Umarov’s purported death is incon- As Ukrainian Jose Manuel Barroso, warned Kiev candidates for a confidence may be misplaced. If the clusive. Umarov was allegedly killed new emir.” insurgents were preparing an attack in an operation carried out by Russian protests turn of ‘possible’ reprisals, but did not Several jihadi for the Olympics, the plans would have security forces, who have not confirmed announce sanctions. bloody, the forums and a already been set in motion — with this information. The Kavkaz Center Missing from all the action is Umarov was Twitter eulogy Umarov, or without. “You can’t execute website, the official mouthpiece of the silence of jailed Tymoshenko. Though the fiery leader from a top something as complex as a terrorist Chechen rebel movement, has also been is spending time in jail, she is not the allegedly killed Shariah judge attack in a short time,” he told Foreign mum about the status of their leader. seemed to con- Policy. According to Mark Youngman of the former prime one to sit quiet. However, except for a in an operation firm that Umarov Moreover, according to Saradzhyan, blog Extremist Russia, the Instagram- minister Yulia feeble-sounding statement egging on had indeed been Umarov probably wouldn’t be directly loving Chechen president has acted like Tymoshenko is protesters to keep going, she has been carried out by killed. But the involved in any planned attacks. “I the “boy who called wolf” by repeat- unusually silent. The darling of the Russian security militant has think that he has become an inspira- edly claiming in the past that Umarov hard to fathom. Orange Revolution is in prison for a been pronounced tional leader. ... a brand, like Osama was dead — statements that have been gas deal with Russia that Yanukovich forces, who have dead many times bin Laden.” Umarov’s predecessors had proven untrue. before, leav- been killed while involved in planning “Maybe [Kadyrov] wants a self-ful- said was not signed with Ukraine’s not confirmed this ing many close hostile moves. “He’s learned his lesson.” filling prophecy,” Saradzhyan told FP. interest in mind. information. observers of the Umarov’s biography mirrors the He argued that Kadyrov’s aim could Ukraine’s proposed deal with the European Union that was restive Caucasus bloody history of his homeland. The be to sow conflict between the leaders derailed almost at the last moment had a proviso for freeing sceptical that this Chechen region has been in continuous of the Islamic insurgency in Northern Tymoshenko, who had been complaining of acute back pain. time he’s actually conflict with Russia for centuries. It was Caucasus. She was being treated by doctors from Germany, especially been killed. brought back under tenuous Russian Youngman offers another theory. That leaves a big question mark hang- control in the 1990s, though the situa- Kadyrov, he suggests, might want to brought to the prison. The leader had at another time ing over the upcoming Sochi Olympics. tion there remains unstable. shift the media attention to Umarov’s complained of beatings by the prison guards. Umarov, also known in Russia as the The 49-year-old Umarov is a veteran alleged death to “stem the flow of Tymoshenko’s near silence as demonstrators risk their country’s “Osama bin Laden,” has of both of the most recent Chechen- negativity” around the Olympics since lives for more freedom —the European way — than more claimed responsibility for terror- Russia wars. In 1996, after the First the attacks in North Caucasus. Being bondage by going the Russian way, is confusing. Her absence ist attacks, including a pair of suicide Chechen conflict’s conclusion, he served Putin’s ally, Kadyrov wants Sochi to be bombings in two trains of the Moscow as Chechnya’s security minister during a success. has loomed large over the protests, but her silence is hard to metro in 2010 and a 2011 suicide bomb- Chechnya’s brief period of independ- “Instead of people talking about the fathom. Is Yanukovich’s regime doing something to stonewall ing at a Moscow airport. The attacks ence. After the outbreak of the Second threat Umarov poses, they are talking the comments that she would be issuing from prison. Or is killed dozens. Last summer, he called Chechen war in 1999, he returned to about whether he is even alive to pose her silence a strategy to let Yanukovich waste in the heat of for attacks against the Sochi Olympics. the ranks of rebel fighters and steadily a threat,” he wrote. protests, without the need for her intervention. The truth is On Sunday, a statement and a video sur- advanced as other leaders were killed. But then again, the man has a likely to come out after the chaos in Kiev ebbs, and it will be faced where militants from the neigh- In 2007 Umarov announced the estab- remarkable tendency to come back from bouring Dagestan claim that the recent lishment of the Caucasus Emirate, while the dead. WP-BLOOMBERG an important one at that. Letters Quote of Child labour is rude, unhealthy and unacceptable India shouldn’t miss the point the day

hild labour is a terrible work in the heat making chairs, tables ape is symptomatic of and creating awareness can go phenomenon. Kids are not or knitting carpets. Once again kids a degenerating society. a long way in addressing the capable of working in the should be with parents not working in RPolice alone cannot be problem. If the CM truly wants Cheat or cold. They are not the heat for labour. Child labour is wrong blamed for the rot that has set in to solve the problem, he has to being fed enough for a day and not because kids should be free, be able to and the measures recently taken begin addressing these primary being paid enough for their hard work see their parents and not work facing the by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind issues and get the people to and debts. Not only does child labour elements. Kids should dream of a great Kejriwal is a clear indication that work towards taking care of the I am against affect kids’ health, it also deprives them future, which is not eighteen people living he is going for the wrong solution. same. Merely organising protests of education. in one room all on top of one another, or One has to take a holistic view of without changing people’s con- bloodshed, against Child labour should stop because looking for things in the dumpster. Think the conditions that lead to degen- duct/behaviour will not change there is no reason to put kids in harm’s of how you would feel if you were doing eration of a society. anything. I reckon, that’s where the use of force, way. It is rude and unacceptable. all that hard work and not getting paid, or Installing a proficient legal system Mahatma Gandhi was different as against inciting Whether children are employed in mak- even worse: not seeing and remembering that is fair and fast, good polic- he was able to change the think- ing carpets, chairs, or other objects, your family. ing, people’s own social control ing of an average Indian and see enmity and violence. there should be no place for child labour —Hassan Kushkush, (public has to protect the weak the community as daughters and in any vocation. Kids must be free to go International School of London, and come to the help of those sons and mem bers of one family. Viktor Yanukovich and see their families, play and read, not Doha who need it and proper education —Romi Sebastian, Doha Ukrainian President THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 QATAR PERSPECTIVE www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 09 Before a bullet leaves the gun barrel

on ISIL and Al Maliki and claim ABDUL AZIZ AL MAHMOUD their demands they fought for a year before carrying weapons to defend themselves. fter about a year of so they are terrorists in Syria, as Third, media teams with the peaceful protests in if Bashar Al Assad did not kill ability to speak English must be Al Anbar province, more than 100,000 people, as if his formed to encounter the media the Prime Minister sectarian militants do not besiege besiege. Iraqi expats also have a of Iraq, Nouri Al thousands in the Yarmouk refu- moral responsibility that lies in AMaliki, has sent army troops to gee camp who die of starvation making people aware of what is end the sit-in by force. while the world is watching. happening in Al Anbar because The troops, as always, were It seems footages of hungry the Sunni media in Iraq is weak holding sectarian flags and shout- screaming to camera lenses have and ineffective, and there are ing chants of revenge for Al no meaning anymore and the only two effective channels — Al Hussein ibn Ali’s death by Yazid sight of helicopters throwing Rafidain and Baghdad — still in bin Muawiya and his allies, so explosives to destroy people and the Iraqi perimeter and opposing they killed, burned and captured places is not terrorism. each other. a large number of people. The toxic gas shells that killed Fourth, residents of Al Anbar Consequently, as an already hundreds are also not considered should leave aside differences known spontaneous reaction, a terrorist act, as if the groups until the crisis is over. These dif- residents of Al Anbar wielded of sectarians sent by Hassan ferences and disagreements have weapons to defend their lives, Nasrallah are in Syrian for emer- left their supporters desperate homes and dignity. As a result, gency relief only. and let their defenders down. Iran immediately declared that The accusation of terrorism War is not young people car- it supported Al Maliki in his war has stuck with us and will not rying guns and sitting behind against terrorism and that it go anywhere else, even if we are trenches to fight the enemies. It was ready to send him necessary eradicated by sectarian swords, is more than that. The low-tech support. destroyed by bombers or assas- A fire tender amid heavily damaged surveillance drones Al Maliki has The US declared the same sinated by professional assassins, buildings in the eastern Syrian town got from Washington will be able thing; it even rushed weapons Al we will still be terrorists. These of Deir Ezzor. to hunt down his opponents day Maliki had asked for. The United people know how to manage their and night. Nations Security Council, the UN relations with Washington, which Citizens of Al Anbar will find Secretary-General and the Arab entitles anyone whatever it wants. themselves alone and under siege League adopted the same stance. Sunnis in Lebanon are also it comes out of that, controlling affected badly because of it. Maliki used to gain the world’s if they are not represented abroad What is this nonsense? called terrorists when they the destiny of thousands of people There are a few points revo- sympathy when he said he fights when electricity goes out, food Is it possible that all these par- painfully scream and oppose without mercy. lutionaries of Al Anbar must terrorism. This excuse also made is in short supply and negative ties do not know that Sunnis in Hezbollah’s manipulation of the Residents of Al Anbar will consider: Shia youth in the south line up media finds its ways into ears. Iraq are suffering under a sav- destiny the country and its peo- have to manage their battles in First, they must clarify their at recruitment centres to get Lots of people will be killed as well age and sectarian regime, which ple or killing anyone at the diktat a more realistic way, away from stance regarding ISIL clearly, as weapons and training to fight the with treachery after tribal leaders works its fingers to the bone to of politicians without the latter slogans or promises they might the world is living in fear because organisation that has become like get money from Al Maliki. humiliate, marginalise, displace, being judged or held accountable. get from people who cannot do of this organisation that has a ghoul in their minds. People of Al Anbar have to impoverish and exclude them, Hezbollah was the one that them any good. They are globally become a burden on everyone. It It is also the same excuse know that they are standing alone using every villainous way created swept the streets of Lebanon with considered terrorists who follow is okay to negotiate for it to leave Washington, Moscow and Tehran against the whole world. Are they by a sadistic and ruthless mind? its armed members, claiming to the Islamic State of Iraq and the cities and settle in the desert once have and it terrifies Arab states. ready for it? I can say they are Has Iran begun reaping the fruits defend the country’s rights but Levant (ISIL) or its allies despite again, as its existence in cities of Second, Al Anbar should have not yet, as there are many things of its long stand-off with the US? controlling airports’ security. It is the fact that they were the ones Al Anbar is enough excuse for its representatives in the West they have to do before the bullet It seems only Sunnis were also the one that decides when the who fought this organisation out everyone to kill without mercy. and Washington, who speak on leaves the gun barrel, and I wish exclusively accused of terrorism, country enters a war and when of their cities and villages and was And it is the same excuse Al its behalf and clarify its position to be wrong.

KHALID AL JABER Has Human Resources Law been frozen? Killing the Arab father ost Qatari employees end of service gratuity denied he stage is always more set for the spread of an idea when are concentrated in the RASHID AL OUDA AL FADHLI by any arbitrary action must be the fluster vanishes. What has happened in the Arab world? Mpublic sector. They rarely confirmed. TWhere are the slogans of freedom, democracy and justice practise commercial activities and announcement was followed by Also, Qatari employees must be raised on the streets of Tunis, Cairo, Tripoli, Sana’a and other this shows what matters to them delay in restructuring ministries, granted full salary when they go cities, when revolutions erupted at the beginning of the Arab is the salary they get every month and then by the absence of execu- abroad with one of their relatives Spring at the end of 2010? and advantages and privileges they tive regulations. or family members for treatment Repressive and authoritarian regimes have been overthrown, enjoy through their positions. These are legal contradictions or other reasons. They have been but tyranny has stayed. It returned wearing new masks in the The Human Resources Law that made the Human Rights deprived of this benefit by the old name of patriotism, religion, doctrine, sect or tribe. What has regulates these affairs. Therefore, The law has not Committee call for avoiding them law of 2009. made the situation worse is the rise of poverty, unemployment and every amendment to the law and other problems immediately. Reinstating Qatari employees class inequality. Oppression, injustice and sectarian, doctrinal and adversely affects the daily lives of seen the light of Nobody, however, has complied who were forced to leave is also tribal tendencies have widened in society. As a result, the present civil servants, which in turn affects day yet although and we do not know to how long necessary. They must be given has become more terrifying than the past. the economic growth and overall this bizarre and unexplained situ- a chance to become part of the The region and its people could not escape patriarchal power. performance of the economy. almost a year has ation continues, how long this con- production process once more so Even if you killed patriarchal power in Libya, imprisoned it in This encourages us to ask about passed since it troversial situation last. they can become active members Egypt, exiled it from Yemen and are fighting it in Syria, it con- the reasons behind the delay in was announced. It Until the law is issued in its of society again. tinues to exist and is capable of taking a new life from the womb issuing the law in its final form, required form, I think it should be The fact that foreign experts of tyranny and dictatorship. given the fact that some promising is still in a drawer developed, reviewed and amended were assigned the job of amending This is a re-enactment of an old tale — “patricide”, which and encouraging statements have in the office of in accordance with developments the law raises suspicions. Qatari Sigmund Freud, the founding father of psychoanalysis, tackled been about it in the past. in the labour market. experts will be more informed in his research and analyses. It refers to a primitive group headed The law has not seen the light the concerned Employees must be granted than their foreign peers as far by a fierce father, who enjoys utilising the tribe, its destiny, riches of day yet although almost a year committee of the promotions they deserve without as Qatari workers’ interests are and women. He kills his children and those who belong to them. has passed since it was announced. any exception or recommendation concerned. The father grows old and new generations of sons are born. It is still in a drawer in the office Cabinet. from any official. The law must A story goes that an Indian king Children are kept away from the father by their mothers. As of the concerned committee of the also have a strict article that stip- ordered his vizier to engrave some a result, a rebellious generation appears and decides to kill the Cabinet. ulates special treatment for female words on his ring that make the father. They do, and cook him to eat to seize his strength and I am afraid if the law has ‘evapo- employees. sad happy and the happy sad. identify with him. But then they regret what they have done. They rated’ due to the scorching heat important phases, which at the Regulations for female employ- The vizier engraved: This time decide to revive an annual ritual for the father, and he is glorified of our summer, I am also afraid it end made it look like a soap opera ees must be more flexible and will pass. and offered sacrifices. will freeze because of the chill of that started with the announce- appreciate the privacy of fami- The significance of this analysis comes primarily from its sym- this winter. ment by authorities about the bid lies and households in the Qatari The views expressed in the articles on this bolism as it means to identify with the father (and primarily his The long-awaited law has seen of committee members to provide society. page do not reflect the viewpoint of the power) and take his place, not to break off the relation with him. wondrous events and undergone views regarding the articles. The Employees’ rights to get the newspaper. This is what happened with the Arab father. The dictator has been overthrown, but the break-off with dictatorship has not happened. What happened is identifying with dictatorship and practising all its powers, taking over its destinies and monopolis- ing all decisions. The Cabinet and its role to follow up A file photo of protesters chanting anti-government slogans at Tahrir Square in Cairo. he corridors and offices body; when any limb of it aches, of some state institutions ALI BIN RASHID AL MOHANNADI the whole body reacts with sleep- Tare home to some negative lessness and fever.” practices by some civil servants A whisper to the cabinet: When and officials. This requires effec- Do we apply what Allah said integrated community’. some people assigned at positions tive follow-up by the Cabinet and in the following verse in the Holy We now hate each other. We in a ministry or organisation its committees. Quran: “Our Lord, forgive us and look how to legally oust someone’s get plagued with animosity, they Hatred and envy can be the our brothers who preceded us in colleagues and brothers in order start to think only about how to most serious diseases of the heart. faith and put not in our hearts for him and his retinues to stay in prove themselves, how to oust It is more like the pest that eats [any] resentment towards those his ‘temporary’ position. However, and exclude others, how to nitpick the green-eyed away before any- who have believed. Our Lord, this negatively affects the “big and take revenge for ‘nonsensical’ one else because of the worry and indeed You are Kind and Merciful.” house”, which is society, and turns issues. grief that afflict the envious and (Surat Al-ashr 59:10). it from an integrated, interdepend- We want the Cabinet, its the despiteful because of his dis- Why do not we cooperate in our ent and cooperative community to departments, committees and satisfaction with what God has work at ministries and civil society a weak and dismantled one with administration to follow up to provided. institutions? Why we seek whims, some wrong behaviours due to the remove negativities in all minis- Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be self-love and selfishness in this negative spirit of some members. tries and their departments and Upon Him) said: “Do not hate each mortal life and neglect our work? We have to cooperate with administration. other, do not disagree with each Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) each other, as believers are like This will help preserve our other, do not compete with one said: “None of you will have faith a structure, each supporting the national cadres, develop mecha- another and be servant of Allah till he wishes for his (Muslim) other, each standing by the other nisms to prevent injustice tak- and brothers.” brother what he likes for himself.” in hardship and ease, in weal and ing place in some authorities, We wonder why some of us are Unfortunately, envy spreads woe. enhance the positives and develop busy envying each other. Why did inside the corridors of ministries Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) our human resources — with neu- not we consider reasons of success, and organisations. The ‘struggle said: “The parable of the believers trality and fairness, away from sustenance and excellence? Why for survival’ prevails instead of in their affection, mercy and com- the whims of some managers and we stopped relying on Allah? a culture of ‘cooperation for an passion for each other is that of a ministers. THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 10 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MIDDLE EAST Syrian enemies may discuss prisoner swaps Opposition, government at odds over Assad’s fate; Lavrov says direct talks to start tomorrow

MONTREUX: Syria’s govern- up with rather emotional state- ment and opposition, meeting ments, they blamed one another,” US vows more for the first time, vented their Lavrov told reporters. However, mutual hostility yesterday but a he added: “For the first time in support to UN mediator said the enemies three years of the bloody conflict may be ready to discuss pris- ... the sides - for all their accusa- oust Assad oner swaps, local ceasefires and tions — agreed to sit down at the humanitarian aid. negotiating table.” MONTREUX: The United Russia said the rival sides had Lavrov, who met Moualem and States yesterday led a fierce promised to start direct talks Syrian opposition leader Ahmed denunciation of the Syrian tomorrow despite fears that a Jarba, urged Assad’s opponents regime and vowed it would step stand-off over President Bashar and their foreign backers not to up support for the opposition Al Assad’s fate would halt the focus only on leadership change. as it seeks to topple President push for a political solution to Yesterday’s meeting exposed Bashar Al Assad. Syria’s civil war, which has killed sharp differences on forcing out The top US diplomat, John over 130,000 and made millions Assad, both between the govern- Kerry, set the tone when he homeless. ment and opposition, and among stressed before 40 nations and Even if the sides are willing the foreign powers which fear that international organisations gath- to discuss limited confidence- the conflict is spilling beyond Syria ered at a landmark peace confer- building measures, expectations and encouraging sectarian mili- ence in Switzerland that Assad for the peace process remain low, tancy abroad. could play no part in Syria’s with Islamist rebels and Assad ally Jarba accused Assad of Nazi- future leadership. Iran absent and a solution to the style war crimes and demanded “There is no way — no way pos- three-year war still far off. the Syrian government delega- sible in the imagination — that Western officials were taken tion sign up to an international the man who has led the brutal aback by the combative tone of plan for handing over power. response to his own people could Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Moualem insisted Assad would regain the legitimacy to govern,” Al Moualem at the one-day a UN not bow to outside demands, Kerry insisted. peace conference in Switzerland, denouncing atrocities committed “One man and those who have fearing follow-up negotiations by rebels supported by the Arab supported him can no longer hold would never get off the ground and Western states whose delega- an entire nation and a region due to the acrimony. tions were sitting in the confer- hostage,” said the US secretary of But after a day of bitter ence room. state. speeches, international mediator Moualem called on foreign pow- At a later press conference Civilians carry signs during a campaign organised by activists in the besieged area of Homs yesterday. The sign Lakhdar Brahimi signalled that ers to stop “supporting terror- in the Swiss city of Montreux, both sides were ready to move ism” and to lift sanctions against on right reads: ‘591 days of siege’. Kerry revealed that Washington beyond rhetoric. “We have had Damascus. and Moscow were also planning some fairly clear indications that Referring to rebel acts, he said: to work on other tracks to end the parties are willing to discuss “In Syria, the wombs of pregnant the fighting which has left 130,000 issues of access to needy people, women are cut open, the foetuses people dead. the liberation of prisoners and are killed. Women are raped, dead “There will be parallel efforts local ceasefires,” he told a news or alive ... Men are slaughtered in Missile attack kills 10 in Aleppo being made, even while the talks conference. front of their children in the name are going on, to find different pres- United Nations Secretary- of the revolution.” BEIRUT: A missile attack yesterday on an groups, and a child was killed in the crossfire, said sure points and find a solution,” General Ban Ki-moon said he He insisted Assad’s future was opposition area in northern Syria killed 10 peo- the Observatory. he told reporters from the world’s had urged Damascus to release not in question, saying: “Nobody ple, including five children and three women, as Further south, Assad’s forces shelled rebel posi- media, refusing to go into detail. detainees as a confidence-build- in this world has a right to with- peace talks opened in Switzerland, a monitoring tions in the Saydnaya area near Damascus, while “I will just say to you that lots of ing measure and appealed to both draw legitimacy from a president group said. fighting in Zabadani nearby killed at least 10 sol- different avenues will be pursued, sides. “Enough is enough, the time or government ... other than the “Two men, three women and five children were diers, including three officers, according to the including continued support, aug- has to come to negotiate,” he told Syrians themselves.” killed when a missile — believed to be a surface- Observatory. mented support to the opposition.” reporters. Saudi Arabia, which backs the to-surface missile — hit the Maasraniyeh area Regime helicopters meanwhile dropped highly Washington has provided more Russia, which co-sponsored Sunni rebels, called for Iran and of Aleppo city,” said the Syrian Observatory for destructive so-called barrel bombs in the central than $1.3bn in humanitarian the Montreux meeting with the its Shia Lebanese ally Hezbollah to Human Rights, a Britain-based group. Hama province, said the group, that relies on a assistance to the Syrian people, United States, said the rival withdraw forces from Syria. Once Syria’s commercial capital, Aleppo has been network of activists and other witnesses inside the and has been supplying non-lethal Syrian delegations had promised US Secretary of State John the scene of intense fighting since a rebel offensive country. materiel to the armed rebels. to sit down on January 24 for talks Kerry acknowledged Tehran could there in July 2012. In Homs, where rebel-held areas have been But so far it has refused to which were expected to last about play a role in a solution. “Iran cer- Elsewhere in Aleppo, rebels and regime forces under siege for nearly 600 days, troops shelled the directly supply weapons and seven days. tainly does have an ability to be clashes as the army tried to advance on the Aziziyeh contested Waar neighbourhood, home to thousands machinery to the opposition forces Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov helpful and make a difference,” he neighbourhood and a nearby industrial area. of people who have fled their homes in other parts — now fighting against both Assad played down the recriminations told reporters. “The army is trying to take advantage of the of the city. and a wave of Al Qaeda extremist yesterday, when the opposition UN chief Ban opened proceed- fact the rebels are also fighting the Islamic State “The situation on the ground has not changed groups flooding into the chaos. called for Assad to hand over ings by calling for immediate of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), to try to advance at all despite the talks opening in Switzerland. All It remained unclear from power — a demand dismissed by access for humanitarian aid con- on Aleppo,” said Abu Omar, an activist in the the main frontlines are still extremely violent, just Kerry’s remarks whether the Moualem, who in turn graphically voys to areas under siege. “Great province. like yesterday,” said Observatory director Rami Obama administration was now described atrocities by “terrorist” challenges lie ahead but they are In Darkush, in the northern Idlib province, fresh Abdel Rahman. prepared to review its weapons rebels. not insurmountable,” Ban said. clashes broke out between ISIL and other rebel AFP ban. “As expected, the sides came REUTERS AFP

North Yemen clashes kill 20 ‘Price to pay’ if talks fail, EU SANAA: A day of clashes between Shia rebels and gunmen from warns Israel, Palestinians the powerful Hashid tribe in northern Yemen have JERUSALEM: A top European talks have shown very little visible economic actors, be it companies, left 20 people dead, tribal Union official warned yester- progress, overshadowed by disa- pension funds or consumers, who sources said yesterday. day that both Israel and the greements on security and a flurry will be choosing other products on Heavy fighting raged Palestinians would have a “price of settlement announcements. the supermarket shelves.” Tuesday in the towns to pay” if US-led peace talks Since January 1, Israel has Faaborg-Andersen said moves of Wadi Khaywan and collapse. pushed ahead with plans for within Europe to require separate Usaimat, strongholds of Speaking to reporters in another 2,791 new settler homes in labelling for goods manufactured the Hashid tribe in Amran Jerusalem, Lars Faaborg- the West Bank, including annexed in the settlements were gathering province, before it receded Andersen, the EU’s ambassador east Jerusalem, sparking a wave of pace every time Israel announced on Wednesday as media- to Israel, also rebuffed charges international condemnation. a new round of construction. tors made a new attempt to by Prime Minister Benjamin By continuing to build up the Asked what kind of price the broker a ceasefire, a tribal Netanyahu that Europe was show- settlements at the expense of Palestinians could be expected to source said. ing a pro-Palestinian bias. a peace agreement, Israel was pay if the talks failed, he said: “It “Clashes on Tuesday left And he warned that persistent likely to find itself more and more has been made very clear to the 20 people dead from both Israeli construction on land seized shunned by the European public, Palestinians that the option of just sides,” the source said. during the 1967 Six Day War was the envoy warned. sitting around waiting isn’t really He said that gunmen fuelling private European moves “If Israel were to go down the an option.” belonging to Hashid have to boycott products and services road of continued settlement Although he did not comment “managed to retake five linked to the settlements. expansion and were there not to directly on press reports suggest- positions” which the Huthis “It is obvious, and we have made be any result of the current talks, ing the EU could cut aid to the had seized during previous it clear to the parties, that there I’m afraid that what will transpire Palestinian Authority, he noted gun battles. will be a price to pay if these nego- is a situation in which Israel will the “very substantial hole” in the Analysts have said the tiations falter,” he said. find itself increasingly isolated,” Palestinian budget due to a drop Huthis are trying to seize US Secretary of State John he said. in funding from the Arab states more territory in the north Kerry coaxed the two sides back “Not necessarily because of any and said the prospect of the EU in anticipation of the con- to the negotiating table in July decisions taken at a governmen- picking up the tab “might not be clusion of a national dia- with the aim of securing an agree- tal level but because of decisions very realistic.” logue that could turn ment within nine months. But the taken by a myriad of private, AFP Yemen into a federation of regions. The fighting first erupted on January 5 when Huthis Israel cracks Palestinian Al Qaeda cell tried to seize Hashid strongholds in the north. JERUSALEM: Israel said network was taking root among said in a statement. According On January 8 a presiden- yesterday it had arrested Palestinians. to the agency, the Palestinians tial commission brokered a two Palestinians from East Hamas Islamists governing planned to provide bomb vests truce, but the fighting soon Jerusalem who were planning to Gaza rejected the spy agency’s to foreign militants posing as resumed, leaving 22 people carry out attacks for Al Qaeda account as “silly fabrications”, Russian tourists for attacks on dead in 48 hours this week. with the help of foreign suicide saying it was an attempt to jus- an Israeli convention centre in The Huthis launched the bombers posing as tourists. tify Israeli military strikes in the Jerusalem and the US Embassy attacks against Hashid The men were recruited by territory. in Tel Aviv. tribesmen in retaliation another Al Qaeda agent in the The two Palestinians, who The detainees were further for the tribe’s support for Gaza Strip, said Israel’s Shin could travel freely in Israel accused of planning to kidnap a Sunni Islamist groups Bet intelligence agency — the because of their Jerusalem soldier and shoot up an Israeli bus fighting Huthis in Dammaj. second Israeli report in as many residency, were recruited over in the occupied West Bank. AFP months suggesting the militant Facebook and Skype, Shin Bet REUTERS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 INTERNATIONAL www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 11 Five dead as Ukraine protests peak President meets opposition leaders; troops hit back harder KIEV: Ukrainian police yesterday But the protesters then regrouped, gave the police special permission to stormed protesters’ barricades in Kiev creating new barricades out of burning use water cannon and more powerful amid violent clashes that left five per- black tyres whose rancid smoke filled the stun grenades. Shops on Kiev’s main sons dead, the first fatalities in two skies above Kiev and flames burned in Khreshchatyk Avenue close to the pro- months of anti-government protests. near-apocalyptic scenes. tests received orders to close for the day Pitched battles raged in the centre The protesters fought back in intense from the local authorities. of the Ukrainian capital as protesters clashes, with casualties seen being loaded Meanwhile thousands filled hurled stones and Molotov cocktails at into ambulances. Police for the first time Independence Square in Kiev which police and the security forces responded started moving an armoured personnel was the main protest hub for the last with tear gas, stun grenades and rubber carrier towards the protesters after two months, hoping their sheer num- bullets. storming the barricades. bers would deter further action. The The bloody clashes marked a new peak Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich deadly violence horrified Ukrainians, in tensions after two months of protests yesterday met with opposition leaders, who have never witnessed such scenes in over the government’s failure to sign including former world boxing champion their country including during the 2004 a deal for closer integration with the Vitali Klitschko in a meeting that has gone Orange Revolution which was almost European Union under Russian pressure. on for several hours but whose outcome is entirely peaceful. The epicentre of the clashes was unclear. Yanukovich earlier urged protest- Amid growing international con- Grushevsky Street in the city centre ers not to follow “political radicals” and cern, EU foreign policy chief Catherine which has been the scene of three days said he wanted to halt the “bloodletting”. Ashton yesterday urged “an immediate of street battles between thousands of Showing no mood for compromise, end” to the escalating violence. European protesters and similar numbers of secu- Ukraine’s Prime Minister Mykola Azarov Commission president Jose Manuel rity forces. labelled the radical protesters behind the Barroso yesterday warned the authori- Using tear gas and stun grenades, clashes as “terrorists”. He then headed ties that the EU executive would assess police initially pushed demonstrators to the World Economic Forum in Davos. “possible actions” against the Ukrainian back well beyond their initial lines by Amid fears the police would soon authorities. A protester walks near burning tyres during clashes with riot police in Kiev yesterday. marching forward in military formation. launch a new assault, the government AFP Ten killed Frigid weather hits life in US in Bangui NEW YORK: The north- “It’s brutal out here,” said the New York suburb of Long eastern United States yes- Ian Chapin, 28, an appliance Island, where more than 33cm terday dug out from a storm repairman pumping fuel into of snow already covered the violence that dumped more than 38cm his work vehicle at a gas sta- ground. of snow in some places with tion outside Philadelphia as a The deepest snowfall from BANGUI: At least 10 people frigid, windy weather closing stiff wind blew. the coastal storm was 40.1cm were killed in fresh clashes some schools and offices and US airports reported more recorded in Manalapan, New yesterday in the conflict-riven delaying or cancelling thou- than 2,000 delayed or can- Jersey, not far from the Jersey Central African Republic capi- sands of flights. celled flights yesterday, with Shore, according to the weather tal, witnesses said, just two Wind gusts over 48km per New York’s LaGuardia airport service. days after new leader Catherine hour were forecast for parts of the hardest-hit, according to The Philadelphia school sys- Samba-Panza appealed for the Atlantic coast, with temper- FlightAware.com. tem shut down, as did many peace. atures below minus 12 Celsius Blizzard warnings were in suburban schools throughout Violence broke out overnight across much of the New York effect until the afternoon, and New Jersey, Rhode Island and between local residents and ex- metropolitan area, according to snow continued to fall dur- other states. fighters near a military barracks the National Weather Service. ing the morning rush hour on REUTERS for former fighters from the Seleka rebellion in the city cen- tre, they said. Witnesses who asked not to be named said they saw the bodies of six former fighters and four Christian civilians near a can- tonment for the ex-Seleka in the capital. The mainly Muslim Seleka were the leaders of the March 2013 coup that overthrew the government and installed their leader as the country’s first Muslim president, triggering a descent into chaos. Tensions in the area around the Seleka camp remained high yes- terday afternoon, after African and French troops intervened, local residents said. Soldiers with the 4,400-strong African force MISCA were also forced to intervene Wednesday to stop looting in the north of Bangui. AFP A bicycle rider takes a tumble along 5th Avenue in New York yesterday.

US panel: No one should wait more than half hour to vote

WASHINGTON: A presidential commission yester- day said no American should have to wait more than 30 minutes to vote, unveiling proposed reforms to tackle long lines and clogged polling places on election day. The panel, commissioned by President Barack Obama after last year’s general election, called on states to adopt increased online registration and early voting to ease the aggravation many voters experienced last year. It also warned that many voting machines were now more than a decade old and were wearing out with no replacements on the horizon. Chaotic scenes in some parts of the country are a sta- ple of US elections, from the Florida recount in the 2000 presidential election to Democratic Party claims that some Republican state governments thwarted early vot- ing last year to suppress Obama’s vote. AFP Labour under pressure to let in more Syrian refugees

LONDON: Britain’s opposition Labour party yester- day called on the government to join a UN programme to help resettle the most vulnerable Syrian refugees, putting pressure on Prime Minister David Cameron to fall into line with other Western states. While Cameron’s government is the second biggest donor of humanitarian aid to Syria, it has not joined an initiative led by the United Nations’ refugee agency which asks European and other states to accept a share of 30,000 Syrians displaced by the country’s civil war and now in refugee camps in the region. Britain has granted around 1,500 Syrian nationals asy- lum in the last year, but has not agreed to take cases directly from the camps. Eighteen countries, including France and Germany, have so far joined the scheme. Labour called a vote on the issue to be held next week. They said this would mean accepting a “few hundred” refugees, including torture victims and orphans. REUTERS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 12 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com ASIA / PHILIPPINES China activist refuses to defend himself Two dozen supporters of Xu turn up during hearing

BEIJING: Prominent Chinese order,” punishable by up to five Five witnesses that he had rights advocate Xu Zhiyong years in prison. His prosecution requested testify in court have went on trial yesterday in the will almost certainly spark fresh been put under police guard and country’s most high-profile dis- criticism from Western govern- been prevented from moving sident case in years, but his ments over Beijing’s crackdown around freely. One of them, he lawyer said he refused to offer on dissent. said, has been taken to a motel. any defence and called the court Xu’s lawyer, Zhang Qingfang, “Our maintaining silence does unjust. said by telephone that Xu told the not mean we will not express our Outside the courtroom, Xu’s judge: “This court is not just so I views. But we believe this court is supporters chanted slogans and will maintain my silence.” not worth expressing our views. raised banners in his support. The judge tried to persuade Xu After the trial, we’ll tell society Police pushed away the crowd and Xu’s lawyers to speak but to about our defence arguments,” and at least three protesters were no avail, so the judge called for a Zhang said. taken away to a police van. recess. Xu’s elder sister and his wife The government has waged a Zhang had earlier said both he will attend the hearing, he said. 10-month drive against Xu’s “New and Xu will maintain silence dur- China has detained at least 20 Citizens’ Movement,” which advo- ing the closed-door proceedings activists involved in pressing for cates working within the system to because they do not believe the asset disclosure, though not all are press for change, including urging court will grant a fair trial. from the New Citizens’ Movement. Liu Chunxia, a supporter of Xu Zhiyong, one of China’s most prominent rights advocates, is detained by policemen officials to disclose their assets. After proceedings are con- Six will stand trial in Beijing and as she gathers with other supporters nearby a court where Xu’s trial is in progress in Beijing, yesterday. The campaign against the cluded, Xu will “express his view- the southern city of Guangzhou on movement exposes the ambiva- points about the trial and all that Thursday and Friday. Three stood lence in Beijing’s bid to root out has happened to him over the past trial in December and face more Xiaobo went on trial for subver- Despite the increased security photographers. But police pushed corruption, even as the authori- 10 years,” Zhang said, adding that than 10 years in prison if convicted. sion after he helped organise the presence near the courthouse, them away and closed off the road ties claim greater transparency. he was frustrated that the court Xu’s is China’s highest-profile “Charter 08” petition urging the close to two dozen Xu support- outside the courthouse, saying the Xu, 40, is charged with “gath- only allowed him to produce two dissident trial since 2009, when overthrow of one-party rule. Liu ers turned up at the start of the crowd did not have permission to ering a crowd to disturb public witnesses. Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Liu was jailed for 11 years. trial, joining many reporters and gather. REUTERS

China suffers dead Internet Thai pro-government activist shot at in PM’s stronghold BEIJING/SHANGHAI: Human error likely caused UDON THANI: A lead- impose a curfew and limit gather- working. But highlighting the risk Kwanchai Praipana leads thou- The police are charged with a glitch in China’s Great ing pro-government activist ings in and around Bangkok. of the political deadlock turning sands of pro-government sup- imposing the state of emergency, Firewall that saw millions was shot and wounded yester- Officials said it was aimed at violent, “red shirt” leader Kwanchai porters in Udon Thani province. under orders from Yingluck to of Internet users ironically day in Thailand’s northeast, a preventing an escalation of the Praipana, who had warned of a On Tuesday, he said that if the treat protesters against her gov- rerouted to the homepage of stronghold of Prime Minister protests that have gripped the nationwide “fight” if the military military attempted a coup: “I can ernment with patience. a US-based company which Yingluck Shinawatra, as a state capital for more than two months launched a coup, was wounded in the assure you, on behalf of the 20 Paul Chambers, director of helps people evade Beijing’s of emergency began in the capi- and brought parts of the centre to arm and leg in a drive-by shooting at provinces in the northeast, that research at the Institute of South web censorship, sources said. tal where protesters are trying a halt. Bangkok appeared normal his home in the northeastern town we will fight. The country will be East Asian Affairs in Chiang Mai, Hundreds of millions of to force her from power. and people went about their busi- of Udon Thani. set alight if the soldiers come out.” said the emergency decree was people attempting to visit The government issued the ness as usual. “From the way the assailants So far the military, which has designed largely to give Yingluck China’s most popular web- 60-day emergency decree late on Police did not try to break up fired, they obviously didn’t want him been involved in 18 actual or legal protection if there is vio- sites on Tuesday afternoon Tuesday, handing security agen- the protests, including one outside to live,” his wife, Arporn Sarakham, attempted coups in the past 81 lence and the police step in. found themselves redirected to cies wide powers to detain suspects, a complex where Yingluck was said. years, has kept out of the fray. REUTERS Dynamic Internet Technology (DIT), a company that sells anti-censorship web services tailored for Chinese users. The official Xinhua news agency on Tuesday quoted Manila, rebels to tackle last peace hurdle N Korea still top security experts as saying that the malfunction could have been MANILA: The Philippine gov- that the (rebels are) also optimis- Front (Milf), before a final peace the result of a hacking attack, ernment and Muslim rebels said tic and we’re happy that we’re deal can be signed. Aquino hopes concern: US Pacific Fleet and domestic media was full of on Tuesday they were optimis- moving faster and moving for- to secure a final peace settlement speculation along those lines. tic of clearing the final hurdle ward to a final resolution,” Jose before leaving office in mid-2016. to ending a deadly decades-old Lorena, a junior minister who But he warned last month that SINGAPORE: North Korea apocalyptic threats of nuclear 14 years for UK rebellion, ahead of a fresh round advises President Benigno Aquino disarming the Milf would be a remains Washington’s “number war against its southern neigh- of talks in Malaysia. on the talks, said. “heavy and contentious” issue. one security concern” in Asia, bour and the United States. drug woman The Kuala Lumpur negotia- “Both sides now have a general Milf vice chairman Ghazali the US Pacific Fleet com- Harris also expressed concern tions yesterday will tackle a “nor- idea of where they want to go, and Jaafar was also upbeat about the mander said yesterday, despite at China’s declaration of an “air SURABAYA: A British malisation” deal detailing how the it will just be a matter of refining negotiations. simmering territorial disputes defence identification zone” over woman was jailed for 14 years rebels will hand over their weap- all the details.” “There is already an under- elsewhere in the region. the East China Sea, including yesterday but escaped the ons, and the creation of a security This is the last of four power- standing on most of the issues Admiral Harry B Harris Jr also over islands disputed with Japan. death penalty after admit- force to police what would be a sharing accords that must be that will be contained in the nor- expressed concern over “coercion” “We think that the air defence ting that she smuggled crys- Muslim self-rule area, they said. agreed between the government malisation annex -- I would say by China in its maritime disputes identification zone (ADIZ) was tal methamphetamine into “We are optimistic... we know and the Moro Islamic Liberation 90 percent,” he said. AFP with neighbours. an unfortunate imposition in the Indonesia from China. He said an increased deploy- region,” he said. Andrea Waldeck had ment of US military assets in the “It highlights an issue that I confessed to taking the Labour leader remembered region as part of an Asian rebal- am concerned about, and that is drugs through the airport ance announced in 2012 would coercion by China in this case and in Surabaya, in the east of ensure that “we are where it mat- other countries as well,” he added. Indonesia’s main Java island, ters and when it matters.” “It has not affected our military hidden in her underwear but “Our number one security con- operations at all. We choose to do claimed she was coerced into cern is North Korea,” Harris told business as usual in the ADIZ.” carrying them. reporters in Singapore on board The declaration, which caused After being found guilty and the destroyer USS Spruance. an international furore, requires sentenced at a Surabaya court, “I am concerned as a com- foreign aircraft to declare their the former police worker hung mander for the provocations that intentions and maintain commu- her head as she was led down come from North Korea. I don’t nications with Chinese authori- to the cells. understand them, I don’t under- ties or face unspecified “defensive stand their leadership and I don’t emergency measures.” Manila bans understand their intent,” he said. China is also embroiled in a Pyongyang warned of “calami- bitter row with the Philippines, China poultry ties and disasters” if the United Vietnam and other nations about States and South Korea push overlapping claims in the South MANILA: The Philippines ahead with a series of annual joint China Sea. said yesterday it has banned military drills from next month. Beijing claims sovereignty over imports of poultry and Last year’s exercises were held essentially all that sea. related products from China in the wake of North Korea’s Harris urged countries involved after it confirmed an out- The Leader of the Cambodia National Rescue Party, Sam Rainsy, (centre) and others pray during the 10th death third and largest nuclear test, in the territorial disputes to resolve break of the HN52 strain and prompted months of esca- them “amicably, peacefully, and anniversary of labour leader Chea Vichea, in Phnom Penh yesterday. Trade union members marked the anniver- of bird flu in the northern lated military tensions that without resort to undue pressure.” sary, calling for an end to brutal killings of unionists. province of Hebei. saw Pyongyang issue similar AFP The embargo issued by Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, covers all domestic and wild birds as well as eggs and even semen from poultry orig- inating in China. Probe reveals Chinese leaders’ kin stash riches offshore The agriculture ministry decided to enforce a ban after HONG KONG: Relatives son and son-in-law were same day that China put Kong, including relatives of Zhidong, co-founders of the article is unconvinc- receiving an official report of top Chinese leaders among those with offshore leading activist Xu Zhiyong former president Hu Jintao, Chinese Internet giant ing, which cannot but from the China Animal Disease including President Xi holdings. on trial for his part in pro- former premier Li Peng and Tencent; and Yang Huiyan, raise questions of ulterior Control Center, Veterinary Jinping and former pre- It is the latest revelation tests calling for officials to late leader Deng Xiaoping, China’s richest woman. motives.” Bureau in December. m ier Wen Ji aba o h ave us e d to shine a light on the hid- disclose their assets. the man credited with ICIJ said it sent letters Asked if the government The report confirmed an offshore tax havens to hide den wealth of family mem- It also came days after opening up China’s economy to the government officials, planned to follow up on outbreak of the H5N2 strain their wealth, according to bers of China’s top officials, Wen reportedly penned in the 1980s. wealthy individuals and the report, Qin responded: of Highly Pathogenic Avian a mammoth investigation a topic considered off-lim- a letter to a Hong Kong Also included were others named in its report. “What I want to point out Influenza (HPAI) virus in released yesterday. its by Communist Party columnist proclaiming his members of China’s “Their response in most is, the clean will be proved poultry in three villages in The International leaders. “innocence” over previ- National People’s Congress, cases was to not respond, clean and the dirty will be Hebei, China, the department Consortium of Investigative Offshore entities can be ous claims that his family heads of state-owned a standard practice in proved dirty.” said. Journalists (ICIJ), cit- legal and there was no evi- amassed huge wealth dur- enterprises and some of China,” it said. The confidential files More than one hundred ing information culled dence that the politicians ing his decade in power. the country’s wealthiest Chinese foreign minis- leaked to ICIJ also include thousand birds were culled in from 2.5 million leaked were aware of their rela- The ICIJ cited nearly men and women, including try spokesman Qin Gang the names of 16,000 clients the area as a precautionary documents, said that Xi’s tives’ actions. 22,000 offshore clients from real estate mogul Zhang told reporters at a regular from Taiwan. measure. AGENCIES brother-in-law and Wen’s The release came on the mainland China and Hong Xin; Pony Ma and Zhang briefing that “the logic of AFP THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 PAKISTAN / AFGHANISTAN www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 13 Six guards Top cleric bows of Spanish 7 die in polio van attack out of Taliban peace talks cyclist killed Police vow to provide security for vaccination teams in northwest Pakistan ISLAMABAD: A Pakistani QUETTA: Gunmen yesterday cleric with close ties to the shot dead six guards protect- PESHAWAR: At least seven Taliban said yesterday he ing a Spanish cyclist in a vio- people were killed yesterday in a would no longer act as a gov- lent and remote area of western bomb attack on a police van tak- ernment-backed peace broker Pakistan where a bus bomb ing officers to guard polio vacci- with the militants after air- killed 24 Shia pilgrims a day nation teams in restive northwest strikes killed 40 people in a earlier, police said. Pakistan, officials said. tribal district. The cyclist, who suffered Militant attacks and threats of Sami Ul Haq, who heads the minor wounds, had crossed into violence have badly affected efforts hardline Dar-ul-Uloom Haqqania Pakistan’s western province of to stamp out the crippling disease seminary and is often referred to Baluchistan from Iran, they said. in Pakistan, one of only three coun- as the “Father of the Taliban”, Six guards were wounded. tries where it remains endemic. was given the task of initiating Police said they did not know Yesterday’s blast in Sir Dheri, peace talks with the Pakistani why he was cycling through such some 30 kilometres (20 miles) Taliban in December by Prime a dangerous area. north of the main northwestern Minister Nawaz Sharif. He was assigned the escort city of Peshawar came a day after Sharif’s government announced by security forces because the gunmen killed three polio workers its talks policy in September and province is plagued by kidnap- in Karachi. began making preliminary con- pers, Taliban militants, a violent Police said that up to five kilo- tact with the Taliban’s leadership, separatist insurgency, sectarian grammes (11 pounds) of explosives but the initiative ended after a US killers, paramilitary death squads were used in the bomb, which was drone strike killed then-Taliban and drug traffickers. detonated remotely. leader Hakimullah Mehsud in Two young Czech women tak- “Seven people including six November. ing the same route by bus were police personnel and a child “The government does not kidnapped in March and are still were killed in a bomb blast in Sir seems serious and concerned. I being held. Dheri,” senior police official Shafi had requested them to avoid a The cyclist and his guards were Ullah said. military operation and use of force travelling through Mastung dis- Another senior police official, but yesterday it started bombing trict when gunmen attacked. Sayed Khan, said the van was in North Waziristan and tribal “Six of our security men have carrying personnel to a health areas,” Haq, who is also chief of been killed trying to save the centre, from where they were A rescue services official searches a police vehicle after a bomb attack in Sir Dheri, some 30km north of the main his own faction of the religious Spanish cyclist, who has suffered to accompany polio vaccination northwestern city of Peshawar, yesterday. Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-S) minor injuries,” said Shafqat teams for security. party, said. Anwar Shawani, the assistant “We will continue provid- The air strikes in the North police commissioner for Mastung ing security to polio workers as administration confirmed that Yesterday was the second day one of only three countries in the Waziristan and Khyber tribal district. One attacker was also scheduled by the provincial gov- the police team was on its way to of an anti-polio drive in the area, world where polio is still endemic, regions on Tuesday were retalia- killed, he said. ernment” he said. provide security to polio workers senior local administration offi- along with Afghanistan and Nige tion for two major Taliban attacks REUTERS An official of the district when it came under attack. cial Tahir Zafar said. Pakistan is ria. AFP on military targets in as many days. But Haq, whose seminary has awarded Afghan Taliban leader Mullah Omar an honorary doc- torate, said more fighting was not Kabul cracks down on US troops ads the answer. 10,000 troops or none “Both sides (Taliban and gov- KABUL: Afghanistan’s gov- “We have launched an investi- The crackdown is the latest ernment) are in a state of war. ernment, increasingly at odds gation into broadcasters to find symptom of Karzai’s hostility to Innocent citizens and soldiers are in Afghanistan: US with Washington, is cracking out where they receive money Washington. Last week, he cited dying,” he said in the statement. down on advertisements that from for such advertisements,” a deadly attack on a restaurant to “A military operation is not the promote keeping United States Basir Azizi, a spokesman for the accuse the United States of doing answer: we should instead put WASHINGTON: Military move could prompt accusations troops in the country after 2014 attorney general, said yesterday. too little to fight terrorism. all our passion into the process leaders have proposed keeping of an irresponsible retreat after and has already shut down a Despite Karzai’s refusal to sign Afghanistan’s media watchdog of talks. 10,000 troops in Afghanistan repeated vows by Washington to spot aired by the country’s most the Bilateral Security Agreement said pressure on broadcasters was “In such a situation I want to after Nato’s combat mission maintain an enduring presence widely watched broadcasters. (BSA) unless several conditions hurting attempts to establish the separate myself from this bloody ends in December -- or else pull in Afghanistan. Any future force The commercials - some funded were met, many Afghans are industry’s independence. tragedy,” he added. out all American forces, a US after December still hinges on by a US organisation - have drawn uncertain the army is able to “Such actions by the govern- Haq said Sharif sought his help official said yesterday. Afghan President Hamid Karzai official criticism because they fend off Taliban insurgents with- ment are a clear attempt to limit in initiating peace talks and he The commander of the Nato-led signing a bilateral security agree- urge President Hamid Karzai to out help from the Nato-led ISAF freedom of speech and put at risk received positive signals after International Security Assistance ment between the two countries, abandon his refusal to sign a secu- coalition of troops. advances in the media indus- contacting the Taliban leadership, Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan, which lays out a legal framework rity pact with the United States The commercials often include try,” Mujib Khelwatgar, Director but “the lack of seriousness on General Joseph Dunford, pre- for a US military presence beyond that would enable the troops to interviews with rank-and-file General of NAI media watchdog, behalf of the government” forced sented the option last week to the 2014. Karzai has so far refused to stay. Afghans calling on Karzai to sign said. Government figures show him to quit the process. White House, which is weighing sign the deal. Broadcasters, which ran the the accord immediately. that more than 50 private televi- Haq also sent a copy of a letter the proposal, the official said, con- The proposed security pact spots for several weeks, came In one spot, the head of a cul- sion stations, 150 radio broadcast- he wrote to Sharif, complaining firming reports in the Wall Street with Afghanistan would allow for under investigation on grounds tural association tells the presi- ers and about 1,000 newspapers that multiple calls and efforts Journal and the New York Times. US troops to stay through 2024. that their source of funding was dent: “You should accept the have sprung up since the fall of to reach the premier had gone “It’s fair to say that the intel- Under the Pentagon proposal, unclear. All have pulled the adver- people’s demand and sign this as the Taliban regime in 2001. unanswered. ligence community, the State US commanders hope the 10,000 tisements off the air. soon as possible.” REUTERS AFP Department, the Pentagon, all US troops would be joined by believe that if we’re going to 2,000-3,000 forces from other have a footprint in Afghanistan Nato countries, according to the after 2014, it should be about that Wall Street Journal. number,” said the official, refer- Military commanders have ring to the 10,000 troop level. reportedly told the White House Pakistan rejects $33m “If that can’t be, we also believe that if Obama rejects the 10,000 it would be most prudent to have troop option, then all American nothing,” the official said, who forces should be withdrawn as a spoke on condition of anonymity. smaller force would be unable to US deal over Dr Afridi The option being debated by provide security for intelligence the White House also calls for a officers and diplomats. ISLAMABAD: Pakistani high treason for his shameful short stay for the proposed post- Vice President Joe Biden, Prime Minister Nawaz act, has become the darling of 2014 force, which would be scaled known for his long-running oppo- Sharif in the cabinet meeting the US for his work for the back and withdrawn within two sition to a large military pres- reportedly rejected the US CIA that led to the May 2 years, the official said. ence in Afghanistan, is believed bill linking $33m aid to the Abbottabad operation. Such a scenario would allow to favour a contingent of less than release of Dr Shakil Afridi Using the polio vaccination Obama to tout the end of the long- 10,000, comprised mainly of spe- and resolved that Pakistan campaign for spying purposes est US war by the time he leaves cial operations forces. would not compromise on by the CIA had furthered the office in January 2017. But the AFP such matters of national problems for Pakistan as in security and sovereignty. retaliation to this, the TTP A cabinet minister said that started targeting polio workers Jobless the prime minister was upset in different parts of the coun- over Washington’s move and try. Before the recent adoption made it clear that no such of bill by US Congress link- conditions would be acceptable ing $33m to the release of Dr to Pakistan. The minister said Shakil Afridi, Washington had the prime minister ruled out repeatedly taken up the issue of the possibility of releasing Dr Afridi’s release and his depar- Shakil Afridi and handing him ture to the US but Islamabad over to Washington. did not agree. Nawaz Sharif, it is said, During Nawaz Sharif’s during the same cabinet official visit to the US a few meeting directed the foreign months back, President ministry to issue Islamabad’s Obama also discussed the strong disappointment over issue of Afridi and his release Washington’s move. The FO but there too Prime Minister issued the statement the same Nawaz Sharif said that the evening. issue was with the judiciary, The prime minister assured which had to decide the fate his cabinet members that Dr of the accused. Afridi’s fate would be decided The recent adoption of bill by the independent judiciary is said to be a frustrated move of the country and there was by Washington to pressure no question of entertaining Islamabad to free the alleged Washington’s request to send CIA agent, who is a Pakistani him to America in return for citizen and is charged with US$33 million. committing a serious crime Aid or no aid, the prime against the country. minister is said to have told The Foreign Office last the cabinet, Afridi would not Monday expressed its disap- be handed over to any country. pointment. “We are disap- Dr Shakil Afridi is accused pointed that the bill proposes Two women walk on the outskirts of Herat in search of work yesterday. of assisting the CIA to track to withhold $33m from assist- Some nine million Afghans or 36 percent of the population are living in Osama bin Laden’s hideout in ance on account of Dr Shakil absolute poverty and 37 percent barely above the poverty line, accord- Abbottabad by exploiting the Afridi’s detention,” the Foreign ing to officials. polio vaccination campaign. Office spokesperson said. Afridi, who was charged with INTERNEWS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 14 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com INDIA

Khurshid and Protest against Essar Group Currency notes BJP is ahead Kerry discuss issued before 2005 to be diplomat case withdrawn: RBI in four states: NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister Salman MUMBAI: Currency notes Khurshid and US Secretary of issued before 2005 will be State John Kerry held bilateral completely withdrawn from talks yesterday on the sidelines circulation by the end of the LS poll survey of the Geneva-II talks — meet- current financial year ending ing for the first time after the March 31, the Reserve Bank I n d i a-US s p a t o v e r t h e h a n d c u f f- of India (RBI) said yesterday. ing and strip-search of Indian The central bank said from 70pc happy with CM Modi in Gujarat diplomat Devyani Khobragade. April 1, 2014, public would During their meeting in be required to approach NEW DELHI: The Bharatiya It said there was an eight per- Montreux, both sides discussed banks for exchanging these Janata Party (BJP) is likely to cent drop in the Congress vote the Khobragade issue and “rec- notes. “Banks will provide garner the maximum vote share share across Andhra Pradesh, ognised the need to put in place exchange facility for these in the Gujarat, Maharashtra, with 24 percent voters projected institutional arrangements to look notes until further commu- Madhya Pradesh and to vote for it. at all outstanding issues relating nication,” the RBI said in a Chhattisgarh if the Lok Sabha In Kerala, the election tracker to the privileges and immunities statement. The central bank elections are held now, accord- projected 12-18 seats for the ruling of diplomats of both countries so stated that public can easily ing to the CNN-IBN election United Democratic Front led by that such issues could be resolved identify the notes to be with- tracker conducted by CSDS. the Congress if elections were held in a timely manner”, said a state- drawn as those issued before In Gujarat, BJP is projected to in January 2014. The opposition ment here. 2005 do not have the year secure a 53 percent vote share, Left Democratic Front was slated Khurshid “also underlined of printing on their reverse the Congress 32 percent and the to get 2-8 seats. The Congress has India’s concern over trafficking side. The Reserve Bank has Aam Aadmi Party seven percent. 13 MPs in Kerala and two seats are visas issued to Indian nationals by also clarified that the notes In Maharashtra, the BJP-Shiv held by supporting parties. the US Embassy in India”. issued before 2005 will con- Sena alliance is likely to grab 44 In Tamil Nadu, the survey pro- The two ministers also tinue to be legal tender. This percent vote share while the saf- jected 15-23 seats for the ruling reviewed recent developments would mean that banks are fron party’s vote share in Madhya AIADMK while the opposition in India-US relations and agreed required to exchange the Pradesh is likely to be 51 percent. DMK was predicted to win 7-13 that the bilateral relationship was notes for their customers as The Congress in MP may have seats. Other parties were slated to very important for both countries. well as for non-customers. to make do with 29 percent votes. get 4-10 seats. The Congress was Both sides looked forward to From July 1, 2014, however, to In Chhattisgarh, 50 percent slated to get 1-5 seats in the state the early realisation of the mutu- exchange more than 10 pieces vote share is likely to go to the where it has eight MPs, it said. ally-agreed calendar of bilateral of Rs500 and Rs1,000 notes, BJP, the poll prediction said and The election tracker projected exchanges, including the visit of non-customers will have to added the Congress may have to the ruling Congress getting 10-18 US Energy Secretary Ernest furnish proof of identity and be content with 34 percent. seats in Karnataka in January Moniz for the India-US Energy Greenpeace activists hang a giant banner on Essar Group headquarters residence to the bank branch While 71 percent respondents 2014 compared to nine it has at Dialogue and the visit of the US during a protest in Mumbai yesterday. The activists demanded Essar in which she/he wants to said they are satisfied with the present. The BJP, which won 18 Food and Drug Administration to drop plans of plundering the Mahan forests in Madhya Pradesh with exchange the notes. performance of the Gujarat gov- seats in 2009 in the state, was Commissioner, Dr Margaret their proposed coal mine, and urged Prime Minister Manmohan Singh ernment, 70 percent said they are slated to win 6-10 seats. The sur- Hamburg. IANS to sack Union Minister of Environment and Forest, Veerappa Moily. 19 convicted in happy with Narendra Modi as the vey said the Janata Dal-Secular Gujarat chief minister. was slated to win 4-8 seats. fodder scam Modi led the approval ratings Meanwhile, Finance Minister P as preferred prime minister with Chidambaram said Rahul Gandhi RANCHI: A special Central 46 percent in Gujarat backing will be the prime minister of India Bureau of Investigation court him for the top job. Congress vice if the Congress party returns to yesterday convicted 19 people, president Rahul Gandhi comes a power after the general elections AAP membership crosses 50 lakh including former Janata Dal- distant second with only 16 per- due by May, barely a few days United MP Jagdish Sharma, cent in Gujarat rooting for him. after his party decided not to NEW DELHI: More than 50 January 26, they will complete Minister Arvind Kejriwal devel- in a multi-million-rupee fod- A survey released on Tuesday declare its PM candidate. lakh people from all over India the target of enrolling one crore oped acute bronchitis and fever der scam case. The case is said the Congress has suffered an “If Congress is called to form have joined the Aam Aadmi Party members. Rai also clarified that leading to congestion in his lungs related to fraudulent with- erosion in its vote share in Andhra the government, I am pretty (AAP) till now, senior party leader only one person can be registered during his over 30-hour sit-in drawal of Rs1.16 crore from Pradesh and could register a heavy certain in my mind that Rahul Gopal Rai said yesterday. through one mobile number hence under the open sky in the national the Godda district treasury. loss in the state if the Lok Sabha Gandhi will be the prime min- “A large number of people there was no question of inflating capital that ended on Tuesday. He There were 30 accused in elections were held this month. ister,” Chidambaram said at the have joined the AAP through the the numbers. underwent treatment at a hospi- the case. Six died during the The study also said the party’s World Economic Forum’s annual door-to-door membership drive,” The AAP leader said that vol- tal here yesterday and has been course of trial, two turned tally may dip in Tamil Nadu but meeting here. He said the Gandhi said Rai at a press conference unteers are reaching out to all advised bed rest, doctors said. CBI approvers, two admit- improve in Karnataka and Kerala. scion, who is currently the vice here, claiming that people from those people who have not been Kejriwal’s developed bron- ted their guilt and one is still The CNN-IBN-CSDS election president of the pary, has enough all over India from Kashmir to able to join the party due to lack chitis while staying out in the absconding. Of the 19 con- tracker for Andhra Pradesh pro- fire in his belly to be the prime Kanyakumari and Gujarat to of information in states. He said severe cold and rain. His body victed, seven were sentenced jected 5-9 seats for the party in minister of the country. Arunachal are enthusiastic about those interested in obtaining the temperature touched 101 degrees to three years’ imprisonment. January 2014. The Congress has Congress party president and becoming party members. membership can SMS their name, after he reached his residence in The quantum of sentence 31 MPs in the state. The survey Rahul’s mother Sonia Gandhi at A total of 35,55,425 people have STD code and name of their Kaushambi in Ghaziabad after against the remaining 12 will said the YSR Congress was slated the party’s delegates session last registered through door-to-door assembly constituency to the fol- ending the sit-in. After the over- be pronounced on January 24. to win 11-19 seats, the Telugu week announced that nobody membership drive, 10,80,000 lowing numbers - 07798220033/ night suffering, his personal phy- Sharma was also convicted Desam Party between nine and would be named the Congress through the SMS and missed 08082807715/08082807716 - fol- sician Vipin Mittal was called in in a fodder scam along with 15 and the Telangana Rashtra prime ministerial candidate calls and 6,40,000 through online lowing which an SMS will be sent yesterday morning who advised Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Samiti 4-8 seats. Others are ahead of the general elections. service, he said. with the membership number. the chief minister to undergo Lalu Prasad in September slated to win up to four seats. IANS The party claimed that, by Meanwhile, Delhi Chief medical examination. IANS 2013. IANS

Reddy opposes Congress rules out Tharoor’s resignation Telangana bill NEW DELHI: The Congress yesterday ruled out Shiv Menon said the media coverage has forced him any possibility of union minister Shashi Tharoor to speak out for his mother and issue the statement. in assembly resigning from the government in wake of the “They (Shasi Tharoor and Sunanda Pushkar) were death of his wife Sunanda Pushkar. very much in love, despite occasional differences, which HYDERABAD: “There is no charge against (him) of any nature and they overcame. It was an unfortunate combination of Strongly opposing the bill nobody is alleging any role of Shashi Tharoor. Why media stress, tensions and a wrong mix of different for bifurcation of Andhra should he resign?” said party spokesman Randeep medication,” Shiv Menon’s statement said. Pradesh, Chief Minister Singh Surjewala. “There is no charge levelled by any It added that what the media reports have been N Kiran Kumar Reddy political party or organisation or activist,” he added. implying in regard to his mother’s death was not yesterday said that it was Meanwhile, Shiv Menon, son of late Sunanda only just “untrue” but “outrageous”. Shiv Menon also his misfortune that the Pushkar, said that his mother was too strong to requested the media to let his mother’s soul rest in bill is being debated in commit suicide and he does not believe that union peace. Shiv Menon is Pushkar’s son from her second the state assembly when minister Shashi Tharoor was capable of physically marriage with Delhi-based consultant Sujit Menon. he heads the state. harming his mother. Sunanda Pushkar was found dead under mysteri- He began speaking on “Anyone who knew my mother would simply know ous circumstances in her room at the Leela Palace the bill in the assembly that she was too strong to commit suicide. I also do not hotel on January 17. A report by the Sub-Divisional even as suspense continued believe that Shashi (Tharoor) was capable of physi- Magistrate, who is probing her death, said Sunanda on whether the president cally harming her, let alone speculation that he could died of poisoning. The investigations are incomplete would extend the deadline have taken her life,” Shiv Menon said in a statement. and would continue. IANS for the debate on the bill expiring today. With a decision yet to be taken on the state Flower market government’s request for four more weeks for the debate on Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Bill 2013, the chief minister began his speech on the historic bill for formation of a sepa- rate Telangana state. President Pranab Mukherjee had last month referred the bill to the state assembly under Section 3 of the constitution. The assembly was asked to send back the bill with its opinion by January 23. The chief minister said he is opposing the bill. “It is my misfortune that I am the chief minister when the bill for state’s bifurcation is being debated,” he said. Kiran Reddy said Congress took the deci- sion to bifurcate the state Vendors at the Mallick Ghat flower market in Kolkata yesterday. More than 10,000 flower sellers come every after all parties supported day to the market and sell about 200 varieties of flowers gathered from West Bengal and South India. the demand for separate Telangana state. IANS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 INDIA www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 15 Raid: Ugandan Heavy snowfall in Srinagar identifies Delhi law minister Women’s groups demand action

NEW DELHI: An Ugandan police in Mehrauli, an officer said. woman who along with four Women rights organisations other women from Africa was here have written an open letter allegedly rounded up by Delhi to Kejriwal, urging him to take Law Minister Somnath Bharti action against Bharti for the mid- (pictured) and AAP cadres night raid to unearth an alleged during a midnight raid last “drugs and prostitution” racket. week has identified him after “It is with extreme dismay seeing video footage from news that we write to you regarding channels and newspaper clip- the horrific act of harassment pings, police said yesterday. and racial profiling of Ugandan Women’s groups have women by a group led by Somnath demanded action against Bharti Bharti, comprising other mem- for his “horrific act of harassment bers of the Aam Aadmi Party,” and racial profiling”. A woman the letter said. “Such a targeting sub-inspector has been appointed goes against the sense of security Commuters travel during a heavy snowfall in Srinagar yesterday. Temperatures in Srinagar, which received the season’s third snowfall, dipped to to investigate the case. and human rights of all women 0.2 degrees Celsius, according to meteorological department website. Police said five women — two in general, and of single and from Uganda and working women in three from Nigeria particular.” — who were allegedly “This was also a victimised by Bharti clear case of racial and supporters of profiling against the Aam Aadmi foreign citizens. Telugu cinema icon Nageswara Rao is dead Party (AAP) on the We are, therefore, night of January 16 shocked to see you HYDERABAD: Telugu cinema actors, including actress-turned- Telugu drama Sitarama Jananam. recorded their state- and other lead- icon Akkineni Nageswara Rao politician Jayasudha, wept while He became famous with Devadasu. ments before a met- ers of your party (pictured) died yesterday at the recalling their association with In a career spanning nearly ropolitan magistrate defend the actions age of 89, plunging the Telugu the late actor. The body was 75 years, he acted in about 255 on Tuesday. of Somnath Bharti,” film industry into gloom. His kept at Annapurna Studio since films, including 20 Tamil and one “One of them it added. last rites will be performed here morning to enable people to pay Hindi movie. Before he fell ill, has identified four The group has today, his family said. their last respects. Agreeing to a he was shooting for a film titled people, including also mentioned that The cremation will take place request from the film fraternity, Manam with his son Nagarjuna Bharti, when police showed her the television footage of the inci- at 1pm at Annapurna Studio, his family late in the evening and grandson Naga Chaitanya. the video footage from news chan- dent, including Somnath Bharti’s which he had set up over 50 years decided to perform the last rites He will be remembered for films nels and newspaper clippings,” a own detailed statements, CCTV ago. Andhra Pradesh Minister for at the studio, which he had built like Mayabazar, Dr. Chakravarthy, police officer said. Police said they footage from AIIMS and the com- Cinematography D K Aruna said to pave way for the shifting of Muga Manasulu, Sudigundaalu, will frame charges against Bharti plaints by the women themselves, the actor would be cremated with the Telugu film industry from Antastulu and Meghasandesam, and the investigation report will clearly indicate that the law min- police honours. Chennai to Hyderabad. Batasari, Laila Majnu, Anarkali, be submitted before a court. ister has endangered the women Nageswara Rao, who was Movie Artists Association Premabhishekham and Prema Earlier, police said a woman and instigated the crowd to vio- battling cancer for the last few president Murali Mohan called Nagar. ANR had called a confer- officer will investigate the assault late their rights. months, breathed his last at a pri- for a total shutdown of the film ence in October 2013 to announce on the foreign women living in The group reiterated the long- vate hospital. Family sources said industry today to mourn ANR’s that he was diagnosed with can- south Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area. standing demand that the central the end came at 12.10am. death. He also called for closure of in a poor family in Venkata cer but said he has a strong will “A woman sub-inspector would government take urgent neces- Popularly known as ANR, the all film theatres across the state. Raghavapuram in Krishna dis- and wants to live up to 100 years investigate the alleged assault on sary steps towards bringing Delhi thespian is survived by three “It is a sad day not just for trict, ANR began acting in the- with the wishes of his fans. four Ugandan women by Bharti Police under the administrative daughters and two sons, includ- Telugu and Indian cinema but atre when he was just nine. A He was recipient of many and Aam Aadmi Party support- control of the Delhi government. ing popular actor Nagarjuna. for world cinema. I don’t think school dropout, who once revealed awards, including the Padma ers,” a police officer said. Delhi Transport Minister Film personalities, politicians, there was any actor in the world that he used to walk barefoot in Vibushan, the second high- After a protest by Chief Saurabh Bhardwaj came out in eminent citizens from various who was (around) 90 but was still Gudivada, rose to dizzy heights of est civilian award in India, and Minister Arvind Kejriwal and support of his colleague. He told walks of life besides hundreds acting,” said Murali Mohan, a vet- stardom. the Dada Saheb Phalke Award, his cabinet colleagues demanding reporters that a survey should be of mourners made a beeline at eran actor. Rao’s was truly a rags-to- the highest individual lifetime suspension of some police offic- conducted in the Khirki Extension Annapurna Studio to pay their ANR was the last of the most riches story. He made his cin- achievement award for films. ers for their alleged inaction in area to know the “truth”. last respects to the doyen of popular first generation actors of ematic debut in 1941 Telugu film Both houses of the Andhra busting a “prostitution and drug “Ask any random 100 people in Telugu cinema. Telugu cinema and was consid- Dharmapatni with a brief role, Pradesh legislature condoled the racket”, the station house officer the area whether there is a drug His son Nagarjuna, standing ered one of the two all-time greats and in 1944 he was picked up from death of ANR. The lawmakers in (SHO) of Malviya Nagar police and sex racket operating... ask beside the casket and trying to of Telugu cinema, the other being the platform of Bezawada (now assembly and council observed station was sent on leave. The them if what Somnath Bharti did be composed since morning, broke N T Rama Rao who died in 1996. Vijayawada) railway station and two-minute silence as a mark of probe has been transferred to was wrong,” he said. IANS down when some yesteryears Born on September 20, 1924, signed on to play the lead role in respect. IANS

Six snow leopards to be tracked by GPS

SHIMLA: Six snow leopards in the icy state of Himachal Pradesh will be fitted with satellite-linked collars in a project aimed at deepening understanding of the endangered mountain cat, wildlife offi- cials said yesterday. The $40,450 project will help the state wildlife department study the movement of the snow leopards in the Himalayas where climate change and human settlements are affecting their habitat. “Half a dozen snow leopards will be tagged by GPS collars and the behaviour of these elusive cats will be observed,” said Vivek Mohan, a senior state wildlife department official. A research centre will also be set up by the state near the Tibet-bordering Spiti Valley — considered an important habitat for the mountain cats. It is estimated that there are less than 30 snow leopards left in Himachal. In rare sightings, two snow leop- A file picture of 10-year-old snow leopard, Nita, prowling at the Conservation Breeding Centre ards were caught on cameras late last year in Himalayan Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park in Darjeeling. in northern Uttarakhand state, springing hope in wildlife conservationists. AFP

Kerala: 12 guilty in Chandrasekheran murder case KOZHIKODE: The special additional are still absconding while the high court had role in the case. Anyway, now we will look sessions court here yesterday found 12 stayed trial against 15 people. A total of 22 into the issue and go ahead with legal pro- people, including three CPI-M lead- people were discharged after the trial began, cedures,” Vijayan said. ers, guilty in the T P Chandrasekheran one died during the trial period while the K K Rema, widow of the slain former murder case. The court, which let off 24 remaining 36 were arraigned as accused. communist leader, said the CPI-M can in no others, including six CPI-M leaders, will A hugely popular leader in and around the way wash their hands off just because two or pronounce the punishment today. Kozhikode district, Chandrasekheran took three of their local leaders have been let off. The guilty include three district level on his former party CPI-M from which he “There are at least three top local leaders CPI-M party leaders, including P K was ousted in 2008 and flayed their ideo- of the CPI-M who have been found guilty Kunjuanandan. The prosecution said it logical stand, that forced CPI-M state sec- ... how can they say the party had no role. would appeal in the high court. retary Pinarayi Vijayan publicly declaring We will now seek a CBI probe to unravel Chandrasekheran, 51, who launched the Chandrasekheran a “renegade”. the conspiracy angle because this would not Revolutionary Marxist Party, was hacked 51 Reacting to the verdict, Vijayan said that have happened without the knowledge of the times by assailants May 4, 2012 when he was with the verdict, the cruel act of tarnishing leadership of the party,” said Rema, who was returning home on his motorcycle. the party by certain vested interests has present in the court. Ahead of the verdict, There were 76 people named in the fallen flat. “Yes, there are a few others of Kerala Police on Monday imposed prohibi- charge sheet filed by the special investiga- the party who have been now found guilty tory orders in Vadakara and Nadapuram tion team of the police. Among them, two and we do not think Kunjuanandan has any towns near here. IANS

Thursday 23 January 2014 22 Rabial I 1435 Volume 18 Number 5953 Price: QR2

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Oil prices strike Oil fields go two-week peak on demand LONDON: Global oil prices digital as beds struck two-week highs yester- day, with the market buoyed by forecasts of stronger crude demand, analysts said. New York’s main contract, turn complex West Texas Intermediate (WTI) for delivery in March, rallied to $96.80 a barrel — the highest Total presents PANGEA at IPTC point since the start of the year. It later pulled back slightly to BY SATISH KANADY Pascal Breton of Total told The $96.74, up $1.77 from Tuesday. Peninsula. Brent North Sea crude for DOHA: “Unconventional Reservoir simulation is a cru- March gained $1.06 to $107.77 a resources, unconventional cial tool for optimising field devel- barrel. technology” seems to be the opment schemes. Because they “Both the major crude oil buzzword in the global energy can handle seismic, geological contracts are ... up for a second industry. With the energy beds and fluid data, reservoir simula- straight day,” said Forex.com ana- becoming increasingly com- tors can be used to forecast the lyst Fawad Razaqzada. plex; and the production costs production rate of a field through “The lack of fresh economic shooting up, oil fields are going its entire life. They also help data means sentiment is still digital. Total to select the best scenario driven by events from yesterday The energy giant Total’s to optimise filed production and when crude oil rallied after the newly developed super compu- profitability. International Energy Agency ter PANGEA, has taken the PANGEA is a powerful new sharply increased its forecast for centre stage of the “Innovation tool for our professional disci- global oil demand. and Technology Exhibition” held plines for seismic imaging. It’s “On top of this, the International on the sidelines of the four- objective include faster data Pascal Breton of Total talks about the high performance computing PANGEA at Qatar National Convention Centre Monetary Fund (IMF) raised its day International Petroleum processing, thanks to 15 times of yesterday. global growth forecast for the first Technology Conference (IPTC) Total’s previous computing power. time in almost two years.” concluded here yesterday. Total’s More accurate images of the sub- Maersk Oil, which launched its understanding or pore spaces methods of hydraulic fracturing, The IMF lifted its prediction high-performing supercomput- surface by using algorithms that a digital lab early this week in and flow properties. By produc- have made these assets economi- for global economic growth on ing is the latest addition to the more faithfully depict the physi- Qatar, has developed a unique ing 3D representations of the cally viable. Tuesday by 0.1 percentage point technology innovation landscape cal realty of the geology and the understanding of Qatar’s Al cores and combining it with the Shell recently introduced yet to 3.7 percent for 2014. of global energy Industry. possibility of testing multiple geo- Shaheen filed and of complex car- knowledge gained from X-Ray another innovative technique The optimistic outlook is Today’s oil and gas deposits are logical interpretations in complex bonate fields by applying a range emissions, Maersq can unlock the into its toolbox: Just-in-Time fuelled by solid growth in the larger and more complex, and zones. of technologies. potential of Al Shaheen Shuaiba Slick Water (JiTSW). JiTSW United States as other countries swiftly evolving seismic technolo- PANGEA may also be used Maersk’s specialists in reservoir. reduces the environmental also move away from austerity gies produce increasingly detailed in disciplines such as geological the Maersk Oil Research & Energy major Shell that sur- impact and logistical chal- budgets. data about them. So simula- basin modelling. It is the result Technology Centre in Qatar are prised the Industry in 2009 with lenges posed by waster use in The International Energy tions take longer and longer and of years of research. This super- integrating and applying ground- a rig-less deep water interven- fracking. It also helps improve Agency (IEA) also hiked its pre- demand ever-greater comput- computer can perform 2.3 million breaking technologies which tion and successfully replicated safety and reduce the equip- diction of global oil demand, which ing power to deliver results in a billion operations per second, a enhance its subsurface under- offshore Brazil has recently built ment footprint and air pollu- is dependent on the strength of reasonable time. PANGEA will computing power fifteen times standing ever further. up an impressive portfolio of tion at the well site, since fewer the world economy. enable Total to process its seis- higher than its predecessor Maersk is building up detailed unconventional oil and gas assets. diesel-powered pumping units mic data in-house, with its own “ROSTAND”, which dates back 3D descriptions of core samples Innovative technologies, such as are required. software, in shorter timeframes, to 2008. from the Al Shaheen to increase multistage completions and new THE PENINSULA China approves 12 new free trade zones Petroleum technology conference BEIJING: China has approved a dozen new free trade zones months after opening its first one in Shanghai, state media attracts 5,000 professionals said Wednesday, furthering efforts to test economic reforms DOHA: The 7th International processing of oil and natural gas. sessions on such themes ‘The and bolster growth. Petroleum Technology Technical experts from 67 coun- Future of Integrated Project Beijing “has given the nod to 12 Conference (IPTC) that tries and 750 organisations have Management in a Cyclic free trade zones ... amid a spurt attracted over 5,000 oil and gas actively discussed pressing issues Environment’, ‘Fundamentals of nationwide enthusiasm for such professionals concluded here in the conference sessions and of the Natural Gas Revolution’, schemes,” the official news agency yesterday. technical workshops. ‘Growing the Resource Xinhua reported. Many of the oil & gas indus- The IPTC represents a meeting through Upstream Technology’ The sites will include the meg- try’s principal players convened of minds as it fosters the develop- and ‘Delivering on Evolving acities of Tianjin near the capital in Qatar in the past four days ment of innovative approaches to Stakeholder Expectations’. and Guangdong in the south close and agreed that advancements address the ever increasing chal- The closing session of the con- to Hong Kong, the report said, in the technology and innovation lenges that the industry faces in ference was chaired by IPTC citing an unnamed source — who will play key role in fulfilling the achieving the goal of affordable Co-Chair Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, declined to name the remaining world’s ever increasing demand and environmentally friendly Director Oil & Gas Ventures, 10 locations. for energy. energy. Qatar Petroleum. The new zones will have to con- IPTC has effectively promoted IPTC’s nine-stream con- On behalf of the IPTC com- duct a survey and draw up spe- the dissemination of scientific and ference featured 400 techni- mittees he thanked the Emir, the cific plans “in a process that may technological knowledge relating cal and knowledge sharing prime minister and the minister last more than a year”, Xinhua Saleh Al Mana, Vice-President and Director of Government & Public Affairs to the exploration, development, presentations, 67 techni- of Energy and Industry. added. for ExxonMobil Qatar accepts a token of appreciation from the International production, transportation and cal sessions and 6 panel THE PENINSULA AGENCIES Petroleum Technology Conference for its role as conference co-host. British economic recovery gets boost as unemployment rate falls

LONDON: Britain’s economic in employment on record. More month, as stronger economic maintain its main interest rate headwinds to growth associ- for the first UK rate hike from recovery won further trac- jobs means more security, peace growth resulted in record tax at 0.50 percent and to keep the ated with the aftermath of the the second quarter of 2015 to the tion yesterday as official data of mind and opportunity for the revenues. level of stimulus pumping around financial crisis would persist for fourth quarter of 2014,” it said in revealed a faster-than-expected British people,” Cameron said on Public sector net borrowing, the economy at £375bn. some time yet and that infla- a note to clients. drop in unemployment along- Twitter. the government’s preferred meas- Minutes of its January policy tionary pressures would remain On Tuesday, the International side a reduction of the country’s The Office for National ure of the deficit, slid to £12.1bn meeting noted that “the unem- contained. Monetary Fund said it expected deficit. Statistics (ONS) revealed that ($20bn) in December, compared ployment rate was now likely to “Consequently when the time Britain’s economy to grow by 2.4 The drop in unemployment to unemployment in the three with £14.2bn in the same month reach the seven percent threshold did come to raise Bank Rate, percent this year, up from an 7.1 percent, the lowest level in months to the end of November of 2012. materially earlier than previously it would be appropriate to do estimate of 1.9 percent given in almost five years, increased the fell from a rate of 7.4 percent in The Bank of England, under had been expected” by the bank so only gradually,” the minutes October. prospect of higher British inter- the quarter through to the end governor Mark Carney, has stated under a so-called “forward-guid- added. The IMF now expects Britain est rates from a record-low level of October. that it will consider raising its key ance” policy. Following the unemploy- to be among the fastest growing before the end of 2014, according But wage growth remained interest rate from a record-low But the central bank also cau- ment data, Citi bank said it now of the world’s advanced economies to analysts. muted at 0.9 percent in the 0.50 percent once the unemploy- tioned that it saw “no immediate expected a rate rise before the during 2014, handing a major boost The data meanwhile further three months to November, ment rate falls to seven percent, need to raise Bank Rate even if end of 2014. to British finance minister George boosted Prime Minister David helping to keep a lid on infla- which stands just under the cur- the seven percent unemployment “With high economic growth, Osborne’s deficit-slashing auster- Cameron’s coalition government tion and in turn a need to raise rent level. threshold were to be reached in the rapid drop in unemployment ity policies. Britain is a member of ahead of next year’s general interest rates. Yesterday, the BoE said that the near future”. and less likelihood that guidance the European Union but not the election. The ONS added that British its policymakers had voted Its policymakers noted will be reset with a lower thresh- single-currency eurozone. “The biggest quarterly increase state borrowing fell sharply last unanimously two weeks ago to that “it was likely that the old, we are advancing our forecast AFP THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 18 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS

Emirates Steel Qatar to lead seeks $1.3bn loan to help GCC full-year refinance debt DUBAI/ABU DHABI: Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Steel is in talks with banks for a $1.3bn loan to help refinance an exist- earnings ing facility and raise cash to purchase assets from its parent firm, three banking and indus- Real estate to drive growth: Markaz try sources aware of the matter said yesterday. DOHA: Supported strongly by was on par with developed mar- As well as securing the assets Qatar, the full-year earnings of kets and better than emerging from parent Abu Dhabi’s General GCC is estimated at 12 percent markets. Holding Corp (Senaat), thereby in 2014. The real estate sector, UAE markets hogged the lime- consolidating all steel assets into underpinned by banking and light in part due to inclusion in one entity, the deal will cut the financial services, would be the ‘MSCI Emerging Index’, with costs of a loan which was signed driving factor of 2014 growth Dubai index producing stellar in 2010 and funded an expansion rate, Kuwait Financial Centre returns of 107.7 percent and Abu of Emirates Steel’s operations. (Markaz) noted in its latest Dhabi index registering strong While the original deal still has GCC Outlook. gain of 63.1 percent in 2013. more than three years to run, The research noted that analy- Strong expansion in P/E multiple the company is hoping to take ses the performance of GCC stock amidst robust earnings growth advantage of a lower interest rate markets in 2013 and provides an on the back of healthy rebound environment, a tactic deployed outlook for 2014 based on earn- in real estate markets and revival Officials during the signing ceremony. by other UAE-based firms who ings potential, market liquidity, of business confidence sustained have sought to replace expensive valuation attraction and economic the rally. financing taken out during the factors, expects full year earnings Qatar stock index which Al Rayyan Tourism buys St Regis global financial crisis. in 2013 to grow by 10 percent for was also included in the ‘MSCI Refinancing of a $2.2bn debt GCC region. Emerging Market’ index returned package used to fund construc- “Going into 2014, we believe 24 percent in 2013. GCC heavy- tion of the Shuweihat 2 water and real estate sector would be the weight, Saudi Arabia ended the Bal Harbour Resort for $213m power plant in Abu Dhabi, which driving factor underpinned by year with a 31 percent gain. was completed last year, having banking and financial serv- Oman and Bahrain recorded DOHA: Al Rayyan Tourism The property will continue to rooms and suites. The property initially put funding in place in ices. Petrochemicals sector is healthy gains in the range of 17 Investment Company (ARTIC), be managed under a long-term also features the St. Regis Bal October 2009, is one such example. expected to remain muted in 2014. percent to 18 percent in 2013. In the international subsidiary agreement by Starwood Hotels Harbour Residences, branded Projects can also secure lower Corporate earnings which have Kuwait, while KSE price index of Al Faisal Holding Company and also continue to fly the St. private residences and condo- funding costs once they are oper- been moderate for the past years delivered a gain of 27.2 percent yesterday acquired St. Regis Regis flag. hotel units, which are nearly sold ational as they are generating in Saudi Arabia and Qatar could Kuwait weighted index returned Bal Harbour Resort in Miami, “The sale of this trophy asset out. revenue, thereby making them surprise on the positive side in 8.4 percent. Florida for $213m (QR776 mil- marks another step forward in “This transaction will enhance less of a risk to lenders. 2014. We estimate full year earn- The highlight of 2013 was the lion). The transaction is aimed Starwood’s pursuit of an asset- ARTIC’s presence in the interna- “The company (Emirates Steel) ings for GCC region in 2014 to be long expected MSCI upgrade of to enhance ARTIC’s presence in light strategy as we look to sell tional hotel market, positioning has strong cash flows and it can at 12 percent”, Markaz said. UAE and Qatar to Emerging the international hotel market owned real estate at the right us amongst the world’s leading now switch from the high project- “At the end of first half of 2013, Market status. The move is likely “We are proud to add this iconic time to the right owners to create hospitality companies,” said Tarek finance interest rate it secured we had neutral views on Saudi to take effect in Q2 of 2014, with resort to our growing property value for our shareholders,” said M El Sayed, Executive Board earlier,” said one source aware of Arabia and Kuwait and positive UAE accounting for 0.4 percent of portfolio; the St Regis brand rep- Simon Turner, president, global Member of ARTIC. the transaction, who declined to views on UAE, Qatar, Oman and the index and Qatar accounting resents a symbol of uncompromis- development, Starwood. “This prestigious property be named because the informa- Bahrain. We were mostly right for 0.45 percent. ing elegance and bespoke service. “We continue to see strong stands apart from other commu- tion isn’t public. except for Saudi Arabia, which Economic growth in GCC is This acquisition complements our interest in our remaining assets nities and developments in Miami The 2010 deal was worth $1.1bn rallied higher as talks of regu- expected to sustain at 4 per- investment focus on world class from investors around the world, Beach and represents a significant in total, split between a $733m latory reforms to open up the cent in 2014, driven largely assets in prime locations as we and look forward to working col- addition to our growing portfo- conventional loan and a $367m equity market for foreign inves- by social spending, initiation continue to expand our presence laboratively with ARTIC on the lio. We are currently studying Shariah-compliant loan, and was tor’s direct participation boosted of infrastructure projects and around the globe,” Sheikh Faisal future success of this property,” other investment opportunities funded in UAE dirhams. The new sentiments. UAE markets, Dubai large-scale subsidies amidst bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman, he said. in USA as we aim to expand our transaction will be denominated and Abu Dhabi, though positive unrest in neighbouring nations. ARTIC. The St. Regis Bal Harbour geographic presence both region- in dollars, the sources said. surpassed our expectations” Increasing oil production else- “We enjoy a strong relationship Resort is located at 9703 Collins ally and internationally through While the initial debt was states the report. where and easing of sanctions in with Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Avenue, directly opposite the building a renowned portfolio provided by local and regional GCC markets had a phenom- Iran is further expected to put are delighted to be working with luxurious Bal Harbour Shops of prominent hotels in terms of banks, international lenders have enal year with most markets reg- downward pressures on global them again and look forward to and near Miami’s vibrant South brand, location and architectural been invited to participate in the istering double digit gains in 2013. oil price. continuing this relationship in the Beach. The 27-story oceanfront design,” he said. refinancing. Performance of GCC markets THE PENINSULA future,” he said. property features 207 elegant THE PENINSULA REUTERS

AM Best upgrades QGIRC’s credit Europe now an ‘emerging country’, Davos hears rating and DAVOS: Top bosses and econo- be reclassified as an emerging mood in financial markets has the single European currency, the chairman of Italian energy firm mists warned the global elite country.” improved, but the situation in the euro, as a “giant historic mistake”. Eni, blamed structural prob- financial strength yesterday not to get over- The continent needs to start economy has not improved.” Nevertheless, he acknowl- lems in Europe for the high level excited by a gradual economic from scratch in terms of economic Speaking at the same panel, edged that the 18-member bloc of unemployment and called on upturn in Europe, which one policy to overcome the twin evils Harvard University economist had become more stable since last leaders to push through reforms. chief executive branded an of high unemployment and stag- Ken Rogoff said the youth unem- year’s gathering of the world’s “We asked 80 of our clients “emerging country.” nant growth, he added. ployment situation in Europe was elite at Davos. “No one is talking what the critical issues in Europe While the mood of doom sur- Axel Weber, head of Swiss “really frightening.” With more about the eurozone falling apart. are in terms of their expansion. rounding the eurozone that banking group UBS and a former than one in two young Spaniards I don’t think it’s a small politi- The answer was labour market stalked Davos at the height of head of the powerful German out of work, “you’re losing part of cal achievement...I think Europe inflexibility,” Sorrell told delegates. the crisis has abated, staggering Bundesbank, said: “The euro- a whole generation,” he warned. deserves credit for that.” For his part, Recchi also rates of youth unemployment and zone recovery is no reason to get After years of recession caused But he chastised Europe’s lead- warned of the dangers of a lost sluggish growth are still battering excited. “If you actually look at the by a crippling debt crisis, the ers for “not really taking care of generation. Talented people are Europe, delegates heard. recovery, it’s lacklustre, it’s uneven eurozone economy is gradually its future in terms of looking after leaving university and failing to Christophe de Margerie, head across European countries ... this beginning to recover, although its youth.” find a job quickly, meaning they of French energy giant Total, said: is not enough to close output gaps, concerns persist about certain Two other top bosses, Martin are joining the labour market “Don’t take it as being provoca- it’s not enough to create jobs.” countries, notably France. Sorrell from British advertising later and later, he said. tive (but) I think Europe should “I’m really still concerned. The Rogoff derided the creation of giant WPP and Giuseppe Recchi, AFP

DOHA: A M Best Europe has upgraded the financial strength and the issuer credit rating of Washington Auto Show Qatar General Insurance and Reinsurance Company (QGIRC) BAE makes progress on to “A-” and “a-” respectively. In the announcement, A M Best indicated “ the rating upgrades reflect QGIRC’ s strong Saudi Eurofighter deal risk-adjusted capitalisation, sound track record of operating LONDON/DAVOS: Defence an interview with Reuters Insider performance and enhanced risk company BAE Systems said in Davos when asked when inves- management capabilities”. it was making progress on a tors should expect a resolution to “A M Best announcement deal with Saudi Arabia over the the long-running price negotia- came today to recognise QGIRC’s pricing for Eurofighter jets and tions with the Saudis. solid operating performance and was seeking other buyers for “We’re always talking to our strong financial and business risk the aircraft after the collapse most important customers and profile. Also, this assessment was of a potential sale to the United Saudi is a very important cus- driven in view of the company’s Arab Emirates. tomer,” he said, when asked if extremely strong capital ade- BAE’s Chief Executive Ian King discussions were taking place quacy and the strength of its posi- said a series of other bids with this week. tion in the GCC market in terms other air forces had been put in. The continued delay of the so- of quality of services provided to Current orders, including a deal called Salaam deal for Eurofighter individuals and corporate clients”, with Oman for 12 aircraft, would jets has pushed BAE to repeat- commented Sheikh Nasser bin Ali guarantee that the manufacturing edly trim its full-year earnings bin Saud Al Thani (pictured), line will stay busy till 2018, King, forecasts. JP Morgan Cazenove Chairman & Managing Director, speaking to reporters in London analysts said last month that the QGIRC. on Wednesday, said. failure to reach agreement was “The stable outlook underlines BAE shares lost about five perplexing. that the company’s financial and percent on December 20, the day King attributed the UAE’s business risk profile will remain after it announced the end of withdrawal to the country’s very strong over the coming talks with the UAE over a poten- conclusion that the deal could years. We anticipate significant tial $9.8bn Eurofighter deal and not be made within its budget premium growth during 2014- said that Saudi talks had still not and the required time scale, but 2015, and we trust that our strong been resolved. The shares have said despite this the relationship capital base will fully support this US Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz (centre left) tours Ford products at the Washington Auto Show at the since recovered that value. between the UAE, Britain and the growth”, he added. Washington Convention Centre in Washington, DC, yesterday. “Watch this space,” BAE’s company remained very good. THE PENINSULA chairman Richard Olver said in REUTERS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 19

Raiffeisen begins capital raising drive BoJ stands MAF to invest pat on easing, says winning $2.3bn in deflation battle TOKYO: The head of the Bank of Japan yesterday said its mon- etary easing blitz was winning the war on deflation as policy- Egypt retail makers held off announcing any fresh measures to stimulate the economy. UAE government offers support The decision after a two- day policy meeting was widely DAVOS, Switzerland: Dubai the past three years. expected with analysts predicting retailer Majid Al Futtaim, The economy has begun to sta- the BoJ would launch an expan- which holds the Carrefour fran- bilise, helped by billions of dol- sion of its asset-buying plan later chise in the Middle East, plans lars of aid which Saudi Arabia, this year to counter the effects of to invest about $2.3bn in Egypt the United Arab Emirates an April sales tax hike. in the next few years, its chief and Kuwait provided after the While the increase is seen as executive said yesterday, a sign army ousted Islamist President crucial to chopping Japan’s eye- of Gulf investors’ growing inter- Mohamed Mursi last July. watering national debt — propor- est in the Egyptian economy. While Western investors tionately the worst among rich “Total investments on the plan, remain cautious, some Gulf Arab nations — there are fears it will including Carrefour, should be companies are returning to the derail its economic recovery. around 16bn Egyptian pounds over country, encouraged by their The BoJ said the world’s third- the next four to five years,” Iyad governments, which see politi- A bicycle bearing advertising logos of Raiffeisen Bank International (RBI) is parked opposite Burgtheater largest economy “continued to Malas said on the sidelines of the cal advantage in supporting the theatre in Vienna yesterday. RBI kicked off a year of capital raising for European banks yesterday with a recover moderately”, while it also World Economic Forum in Davos. army-backed authorities who share sale that could raise as much as $3.9bn to strengthen its balance sheet and repay state aid. stuck with a 2.0 percent infla- The investment plan is positive replaced Mursi. tion target seen as crucial to the for Egypt’s army-backed govern- “We definitely receive support bank’s policy blueprint. ment, which is trying to attract from the UAE government to BoJ governor Haruhiko Kuroda foreign money back to the country invest in Egypt. We’ve been asked unveiled the vast asset-buying and create jobs to ease social dis- if we need help,” Malas said. “We scheme in April as part of a content as it manages a difficult also have a very good relationship NBK posts $844m net profit broader plan by Prime Minister transition to elections this year. with the government in Egypt. Shinzo Abe to reinvigorate the MAF, the sole franchisee of We’ve managed to work with dif- DOHA: Na t i o n a l B a n k o f K u w a i t compared to year-end 2012 and contributing to the high credit rat- economy and eradicate years French retailer Carrefour in ferent governments and clearly (NBK), the largest Kuwaiti customer deposits reached $37.1bn ings ahead of regional and inter- of deflation with a policy blitz, the region, will expand one of its this government is going the extra bank, reported net profits of (KD10.5bn), up 10.2 percent com- national financial institutions.” dubbed Abenomics. Both men shopping malls in Cairo’s Maadi mile. That’s what we need.” $844m (KD238.1m) for the year pared to last year. Asset quality Despite the challenges in the are attending the Davos summit district at a cost of 3.2 billion While Majid Al Futtaim is a 2013 compared with $1,082m ratios continued to improve with corporate domestic market and where the world’s political and pounds, and begin construction private group, much of the Gulf’s (KD305.1m) in 2012. Adjusting Non-performing loans (NPL) to the political instability in some business elite are gathering this next week of another mall next investment in Egypt this year for the $289m (KD81.5m) excep- gross loans ratio dropping to 1.96 of the regional markets, the bank week. to Cairo’s main airport that will looks likely to come from state- tional gains recognized in 2012 percent in year-end 2013 from 2.75 managed to deliver a strong set of Kuroda said yesterday that cost a similar amount, Malas said. linked investors. on the consolidation of Boubyan percent in 2012 and NPL coverage results. “We continued to focus the bank would press on with its In addition, the company Ahmed Heikal, chairman and Bank, net profits recorded a 6.5 ratio increasing to 200 percent at on core banking business across policy plan, and added that he was expects to complete construction founder of Citadel Capital, a big percent year on year growth, a year-end 2013 from 157 percent our locations. In the year 2013, still confident the inflation target of its ‘Mall of Egypt’ project near Egyptian investment firm, told press release issued by the bank last year. NBK’s board of directors excluding the exceptional gain would be reached sometime next Cairo by the end of 2015 at a cost Reuters in Davos that sovereign said yesterday. has recommended a cash dividend recognized last year, NBK’s net year — despite growing scepticism of 4.9 billion pounds, while the wealth funds from countries such as As of end of 2013, NBK Group’s of 30 fils per share (30 percent operating income grew by 10.2 among analysts and even some Carrefour operation plans further the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait total assets reached $66bn of the par value) and 5 percent percent year on year to $2,220m BoJ board members. investments, he said. were expressing interest in Egypt. (KD18.6bn) up 12.8 percent com- bonus shares. (KD626.3m),” Dabdoub added. However, London-based Capital New foreign investment in “Sovereign wealth funds from pared to year-end 2012, while total Ibrahim Dabdoub, NBK’s Dabdoub also confirmed that Economics said it expected the Egypt almost dried up after this region are starting to look shareholders’ equity increased by Group Chief Executive Officer the domestic operating environ- BoJ to ultimately push back its the revolution which overthrew at opportunities. Energy is a sec- 3.3 percent year on year to $8.4bn said “NBK’s profits for the year ment continued to improve and inflation target by about one year, Hosni Mubarak in 2011 - though tor they’re certainly looking at, (KD2.37bn). Loans and advances affirm the group’s strong finan- the overall outlook is turning as it unleashes further stimulus to Malas said Carrefour had con- as well as real estate and food.” reached $37.9bn (KD10.7bn) at cial position, market leadership more positive. counter any slowdown. tinued to open new stores over REUTERS year-end 2013 up 8.5 percent and its conservative strategy, all THE PENINSULA AFP HDFC faces tough battle as Indian banks push home loans

MUMBAI: Indian mortgage to even live with narrower mar- growth to 23 percent, while lender Housing Development gins. They are also expanding into HDFC was flat at 23 percent, Finance Corp Ltd (HDFC), lower-tier cities, a market that according to a report by Ambit loved by global investors for HDFC is nurturing. “This is a very Capital this month. its steady profit growth, faces safe business. All our branches are But the battle for mortgage an intensifying battle for busi- working hard to grow home loans. borrowers is threatening to ness and market share as banks We want to grow faster than the squeeze net interest margins aggressively push home loans. industry,” said Anil Verma, BOI’s (NIMs). Analysts expect a 10-20 With India’s economic flu hit- chief financial officer. basis point margin decline for ting corporate lending, banks BOI is setting up branches that Indian banks in the year ending have cranked up efforts to tap only sell auto and home loans, March 2014 from an average of into the country’s housing loan taking five days to process a 3.1 percent in 2010/11. Brokerage demand, which has proven to be mortgage. It often takes between Jefferies expects HDFC’s NIM to brick-hard by comparison. two weeks and a month to get a ease to 4.14 percent from 4.4 per- Demand for homes, and loans, home loan approved in India. cent over the same period. has been stoked by a persisting State Bank of India (SBI), which So far, HDFC’s overall profit- housing shortage as long-term dethroned HDFC as India’s top ability has remained unscathed, demographic changes — urbanisa- mortgage lender about two years thanks to demand for homes in tion, rising incomes, more nuclear ago, was charging mortgage inter- smaller cities as well as income families — transform how and est of up to 200 basis points above from other businesses. where people live in Asia’s third- its base rate in 2011. SBI is now For the December quarter, net biggest economy. offering home loans at just 10-30 profit grew 12 percent to 12.8 billion With their eyes on the prize, bps above the base rate, underscor- rupees ($206.92 million), in line with banks such as state-run Bank of ing the intensifying competition. estimates. Net interest margin for India (BOI) and ICICI Bank, the SBI’s home loans grew 20 the nine months ended December biggest private sector lender, are percent in the September quar- was at 4 percent, compared with swarming the market with dis- ter from 13 percent a year ear- 4.06 percent a year earlier. counts and special offers, willing lier. ICICI doubled its mortgage REUTERS

McDonald’s under tax watch

A Metro underground entrance in front of a McDonald’s fast-food restaurant in Paris yesterday. McDonald’s France has confirmed tax inspectors visited its local headquarters but denied wrongdoing. THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 20 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS

Iraq oil exports Banking shares push QE index up 0.29pc and revenues Petrochemical stocks lift Saudi to five-year high; Cairo index rises for third day fell in 2013

DOHA: Qatar Exchange pur- Consumer Goods and Services in U S shale gas in 2014. referendum on the country’s below what analysts had factored BAGHDAD: Iraq’s oil exports sued its upswing trend yes- sector index ws up 0.38 percent. Analysts are optimistic for the new constitution, which was sub- in because of Zain Saudi’s results,” and revenues declined in 2013 terday adding 32.22 points, or The industrial sector gained 0.31 sector because of higher product sequently approved by an over- a telecom analyst said on condi- compared to the previous 0.29 percent, to advance to percent while insurance sector prices and increased demand. whelming majority of voters. tion of anonymity. year, official figures showed 11,179.61 points from 11,147.39 on lost 1.30 percent. “The recovery in the US econ- Orascom Telecom Media and Zain Saudi fell 0.6 percent to yeterday, despite efforts to Tuesday. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s omy should help consumption for Technology Holding surged 8.5 equal a four-month low. dramatically ramp up crude The volume of shares traded market hit a five-year high yester- petchem products,” said Sebastien percent to an all-time high after In Dubai, Arabtec jumped 7.1 sales to fund much-needed fell to 8,669,196 from 9,174,192 on day as buying demand returned to Henin, portfolio manager at The a subsidiary signed a submarine percent after the contractor said reconstruction. Tuesday and the value of shares petrochemical stocks, while Egypt National Investor in Abu Dhabi. cable deal with Egypt Telecom. it would expand in the Balkan Exports totalled 872.3 million increased to QR470,535,280.37 rose for a third day on strong The banking sector rose 0.7 The latter added 0.3 percent. region and open a regional head- barrels, or 2.39 million bpd, last from QR432,177,151.91 on Tuesday. technical chart support. percent, adding support to the Kuwait’s index dropped 0.09 quarters in Belgrade. year compared with 2.42 million Among the top gainers were Saudi’s petrochemical index main share index, which climbed percent, snapping a four-session The emirate’s index rose bpd in 2012, according to oil min- Qatar National Bank which was climbed 1.2 percent, rebounding 0.3 percent to its highest close rally. Zain was the main drag, 0.6 percent to 3,687 points in a istry figures. Revenues dipped to up 1.54 percent to QR185.10, after declines in the four previ- since August 2008. falling 4.5 percent to slump to its volatile session as day traders $89.22bn from $94.02bn. International Islamic Bank gained ous sessions following lacklustre Elsewhere, Cairo’s benchmark lowest close since March 2009. dominated. Iraq relies on oil exports for 1.30 percent to QR70, Ooredoo sector earnings. index rose 1.3 percent to 7,180 Selling pressure has increased The benchmark remains in a nearly all of its government rev- added 1.23 percent to QR148.50 Saudi Basic Industries Corp points, up for a third day in a ahead of the telecom operator’s resistance zone near 3,625 points - enue, and crude sales account for and Vodafone Qatar was up by (Sabic), the world’s largest chemi- rebound from key psychological earnings due on January 27 after the low of 2007 and only a weekly most of GDP. 0.78 percent to QR11.56. cals producer, climbed 1.6 percent. support near 7,000 level. unit Zain Saudi posted a widen- close above this level will confirm The drop in exports was attrib- The Banking and Financial sec- The firm’s chief executive yester- The market hit a three- ing fourth-quarter loss. a breakout. uted to various periods of bad tor index added 0.76 percent while day said it would begin investment year high last week ahead of a “Zain results are likely to be AGENCIES weather, sabotage against the main northern pipeline and main- tenance work at the main export terminal in the south. Subway to add 13,000 jobs But the ministry has trum- peted investment in export and storage infrastructure, which it Canada keeps key said would pay off soon. Additionally, it says new fields are due to begin production, help- lending rate at 1pc ing the country increase its out- put and exports in 2014. Overall production averaged OTTAWA: The Bank of Canada discount retailers including 3.07 million bpd in December, kept its key lending rate at one Target and while excess capacity according to the International percent yesterday, as inflation in the economy is absorbed. Energy Agency (IEA). drops further below its two per- At the same time, global growth Officials aim to increase capac- cent target. is predicted to strengthen, lead ity from 3.2 million bpd now to The central bank also hinted at by a bounce in the US economy, nine million bpd by 2017, a target a possible drop in the overnight the bank said. “The improving US the International Monetary Fund rate if the economy stays flat, outlook is affecting global bond, and IEA have warned is overly blaming “significant excess supply equity, and currency markets,” optimistic. in the economy and heightened the bank noted. Baghdad is seeking to dramati- competition in the retail sector.” In Canada, growth improved cally ramp up exports to fund des- Canada’s inflation remains in the second half of 2013, but perately needed reconstruction stubbornly low, and was last exports and business invest- of Iraq’s conflict-battered infra- recorded in November at only ment have not turned around as structure and economy. 0.9 percent. expected. Oil ministry spokesman Assem “The path for inflation is now The central bank revised its Jihad said that while exports and expected to be lower than previ- growth forecast slightly, up two sales dropped in 2013, investment ously anticipated for most of the percentage points in 2014 and in pipeline and export infrastruc- projection period,” the bank said. down two percentage points in ture, as well as major storage November marked the sev- 2015, to 2.5 percent in both years. facilities, would reap dividends in enth month in 13 in which the It said stronger US demand, as the coming year. “All of these will Canadian government statistical well as the recent depreciation of increase the amount we export, agency’s Consumer Price Index the Canadian dollar to US$0.90, and limit the effects of any stop- increased less than one percent, “should help to boost exports and, pages,” he said. in year-on-year terms. in turn, business confidence and He also pointed to expected The Bank of Canada now pre- investment.” increases in production from the dicts inflation will return to two The bank’s overnight interest southern fields of Badra and West percent “in about two years,” once rate has remained unchanged at A man walks past a Subway sandwich store in central London yesterday. Subway, one of the largest fast-food Qurna due later in the year. retail competition has normalized. the current near-record low of chains in the world, plans to open over 1,200 new stores in the UK and Ireland by 2020, creating another AFP Prices have remained low fol- one percent since September 2010. 13,000 jobs, it said yesterday. lowing a recent influx of American AFP

QATARI MARKET Etihad secures US Bond Coupon Maturity Currency Mid-Price Yield Moody’s S&P Eyeing Watson IPO, Li Ka-shing Qatar Govt 5.15% 4/9/2014 USD 101.00 0.15 % Aa2 AA route-sharing Qatar Govt 3.125% 1/20/2017 USD 105.13 1.37 % Aa2 AA deal with JetBlue Qatar Govt 6.55% 4/9/2019 USD 119.75 2.49 % Aa2 AA goes for low price Electric sale Qatar Govt 5.25% 1/20/2020 USD 112.75 2.92 % Aa2 AA Qatar Govt 4.5% 1/20/2022 USD 107.13 3.47 % Aa2 AA ABU DHABI: Abu Dhabi’s HONG KONG: Tycoon Li owns the utility that brought elec- since 2010 and nearly double the Qatar Govt 9.75% 6/15/2030 USD 154.50 4.88 % Aa2 AA state-owned Etihad Airways Ka-shing made the initial public tricity to the city in 1890, is still 2013 tally of $17.1bn. Qatar Govt 6.4% 1/20/2040 USD 117.00 5.20 % Aa2 AA has secured a deal to share offering of a Hong Kong utility the biggest IPO in Asia excluding Among big-ticket deals Qatar Govt 5.75% 1/20/2042 USD 108.25 5.19 % Aa2 AA route codes with US carrier as cheap as he could, seeking to Japan since the $3.6bn listing by expected to be launched in JetBlue Airways, it said yester- bolster investor appetite as he People’s Insurance Group of China Hong Kong this year are a $2 Qatari Diar 3.5% 7/21/2015 USD 104.00 0.78 % Aa2 AA day, a move which extends the considers whether to sell shares Co Ltd (PICC) in November 2012. billion offer from Chinese car- Qatari Diar 5% 7/21/2020 USD 109.88 3.30 % Aa2 AA reach of its apparent network in another Li company in what Power Assets will use proceeds maker BAIC Motor, backed by Comqat 5% 11/18/2014 USD 103.25 0.95 % A1 A- in the United States and nearby could be the world’s biggest- from the spinoff for expansion Daimler AG, and a $5 billion list- Comqat 3.375% 4/11/2017 USD 103.75 2.16 % A1 A- markets. ever retail IPO. overseas. ing from Chinese meat processor QIB 3.856% 10/7/2015 USD 104.13 1.40 % NR NR Unlisted Etihad will initially Defying a reputation among “Building a relationship with Shuanghui International Holdings. QNB 3.125% 11/16/2015 USD 103.63 1.10 % Aa3 A+ code-share on 40 JetBlue routes Hong Kong investors for selling the market is important” for a Though reflecting reined-in QNB 3.375% 2/22/2017 USD 104.00 2.03 % Aa3 A+ within the United States from assets at peak valuation, Asia’s Watson deal later in the year, said ambition, the January 29 listing New York and Washington, pend- richest man on Wednesday priced an equity capital markets banker means the HK Electric trust, hous- Doha Bank 3.5% 3/14/2017 USD 104.00 2.18 % A2 A- ing government approval, Etihad HK Electric Investments Ltd’s in Hong Kong who is familiar ing a business that supplies power to Qtel 3.375% 10/14/2016 USD 105.00 1.50 % A2 A said in a statement. sale at $3.1bn, the bottom of a tar- with the deal but not authorized 568,000 registered customers, car- Qtel 7.875% 6/10/2019 USD 123.63 3.08 % A2 A Etihad, along with other state- geted range. In last year’s original to speak publicly on the mat- ries a projected higher yield than Qtel 4.75% 2/16/2021 USD 105.88 3.79 % A2 A backed Gulf carriers like Emirates plans, the utility investment trust ter. “This IPO needs to trade up. other publicly traded city utilities. Qtel 5% 10/19/2025 USD 101.13 4.87 % A2 A and Qatar Airways, have pumped controlled by Li’s Power Assets People need to feel good about The IPO was priced at HK$5.45 Rasgas 5.5% 9/30/2014 USD 103.13 0.85 % Aa3 A billions of dollars into expanding Holdings Ltd was expected to buying Li Ka-shing deals.” per unit, compared with a mar- Rasgas 5.832% 9/30/2016 USD 106.88 3.14 % Aa3 A its fleet and routes. raise up to $5.7bn. The regulated, low-growth envi- keting range of HK$5.45 to Once Etihad starts daily After two companies in his ronment of the utility sector is far- HK$6.30 each, Power Assets Rasgas 5.298% 9/30/2020 USD 107.38 4.03 % Aa3 A flights to Los Angeles in June conglomerate lost about a third removed from the kind of interest said in a regulatory filing on SOVEREIGNS further services are planned. of their value since their 2011 the man dubbed ‘Superman’ in Wednesday. The trust offered 4.43 Bond PDA* Maturity Currency Mid-Price Yield Moody’s S&P Etihad also plans to code-share IPOs, Li’s choice reflects a need Hong Kong will hope to drum billion units, putting the deal size Abu Dhabi Govt 5.5% 4/8/2014 USD 101.13 (0.20 %) Aa2 AA on JetBlue flights between New to restore the Hong Kong mar- up in a potential Watson IPO in at HK$24.1bn ($3.1bn). Abu Dhabi Govt 6.75% 4/8/2019 USD 121.63 2.32 % Aa2 AA York and select destinations in ket’s confidence. The 85-year- what’s set to be a marquee year Bankers said the price should the Dominican Republic, Jamaica old is reviewing strategy options for Hong Kong bankers. help produce a solid early showing Dubai Govt 6.7% 10/5/2015 USD 108.25 1.72 % NR NR and Colombia. that include a possible listing that With major economies picking for the trust. “The valuation was Dubai Govt 4.9% 5/2/2017 USD 107.25 2.58 % NR NR This is Etihad’s second code- could value retailer AS Watson Co up steam and companies chasing just too high. There is a lot of pent- Dubai Govt 7.75% 10/5/2020 USD 120.38 4.23 % NR NR share in the United States, Ltd at about $23bn, raising funds funds to tap into growth oppor- up demand in the market, but inves- Dubai Govt 6.45% 5/2/2022 USD 112.88 4.56 % NR NR the first being with American to fuel a major drive in health and tunities, advisory firm PwC esti- tors are very selective,” said another Qatar Govt 4% 1/20/2015 USD 103.38 0.54 % Aa2 AA Airlines. beauty products in China. mates Hong Kong IPOs could equity capital markets banker. Bahrain Govt 6.273% 11/22/2018 USD 113.88 3.15 % NR BBB REUTERS The sale of HK Electric, which raise $32.2bn in 2014, the highest REUTERS Bahrain Govt 5.5% 3/31/2020 USD 105.88 4.40 % NR BBB Egypt Govt 5.75% 4/29/2020 USD 99.75 5.80 % Caa1 B- Morocco Govt 4.5% 10/5/2020 EUR 103.63 3.88 % NR BBB-

*Periodic Distribution Amount IMPORTANT NOTE: Putin rejects devaluation as ruble hits 5-year low Published by HSBC Bank Middle East Limited, P O Box 57, Doha, Qatar which is licensed and regulated by Qatar Central Bank and Jersey Financial Services Commission. Information quoted is from publicly available sources or proprietary MOSCOW: President Vladimir ruble flexibility that could rein- in Moscow. “And the freer the Minister Denis Manturov told data and subject to change. HSBC accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising out of the use of all or part of this material. This information is general and does not Putin yesterday dismissed vigorate sluggish growth. The Russian currency, the better it will parliament that Russia’s indus- take into account individual circumstances, objectives or needs. The price of bonds growing speculation about an Central Bank had announced ear- be overall because this will force trial production rate “managed to can and does fluctuate. The secondary market for bonds may not provide significant imminent currency devaluation lier this month that it was with- the economy to be more effective.” reach 2012 levels” after being in liquidity or may trade based on prevailing market conditions. Past performance is not as the Russian ruble hit five- drawing “targeted” daily currency Putin added that Nabiullina decline for most of the year. a reliable indicator of future performance. You should consider these matters and consult your financial advisor prior to making any investment decisions. year lows amid growing capital trading interventions as it moves “did not say anything at all” about The ruble has hit five-year lows outflows and diminishing cen- toward a fully floating exchange a government-orchestrated cur- this week against the Central tral bank support. rate by the start of next year. rency devaluation that could help Bank’s foreign currency basket — The Russian leader said a day “The Central Bank is now only Russian industry by making the a politically worrying trend for the after a meeting with Central partially involved in currency country’s goods more competitive Kremlin because of the accompa- Bank chief Elvira Nabiullina that regulation,” Putin said during a abroad. He spoke only moments nying rise in the cost of living. the government welcomed greater meeting with university students before Industry and Trade AFP THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 BUSINESS VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 21

Banking’s biggest problem Greece: Signs of growth not bonuses or shares BY HA-JOON CHANG come as austerity eases ast Friday, in another of those agenda-setting speeches for BY MARK WEISBROT which he has rightly become famous, Ed Miliband took on Now the IMF is projecting economic 20 percent decline in wages and salaries the biggest of what he describes as “the broken markets” growth for 2014. But this time they are for 2010-2014; but this has not been enough Lin the UK economy – the financial market. t was nearly four years ago that the probably, finally, going to be right. It is to make Greek exports significantly more Taking his “cost of living crisis” theme to another level, the Greek government negotiated its agree- vitally important that we understand why. competitive, according to the fund’s latest Labour leader emphasised that the issue is not just about oligopo- ment with the IMF for a harsh aus- Last month the Greek parliament (July) review. Exports have remained weak listic firms fleecing their customers; it is also about the lack of jobs terity programme that was ostensibly approved a stimulus programme involving and haven’t come close to compensating for with decent wages that can support decent standards of living. designed to resolve its budget problems. highway construction that is quite large. the fiscal tightening and reduced domestic The problem with the British banking industry, Miliband pointed IMany economists, when we saw the plan, According to the ministry of infrastructure, private spending. The strategy of “internal out, is not just about the concentration of financial power in the knew immediately that Greece was begin- transport, and networks, total spending on devaluation” has not yet worked for Greece, personal account market, but also in the business loan market. ning a long journey into darkness that would this project will be €7.5bn over the next year nor – according to the IMF’s data and anal- According to Miliband’s analysis, the dominant banks are not last for many years. This was not because and a half. ysis – for the eurozone as whole. lending enough to small and medium-sized enterprises because the Greek government had lived beyond its This amounts to about 2.7 percent of GDP Of course, Greece is still far from out they form a cosy oligopoly (controlling 85 percent of small business means or lied about its fiscal deficit. These during this period. For comparison, the US of the woods. With a debt-to-GDP ratio lending) that does not want to take any risk; enterprise loans are things could have been corrected without federal stimulus that helped us out of our of 176 percent (it was about 115 percent inherently riskier than mortgage and personal loans. going through six or more years of recession. 2008-09 great recession (after subtracting when Greece began austerity), and facing Given that small businesses create most jobs in the UK (as they It was because of the “solution” itself. the state governments’ budget tightening) high interest rates if it returns to market do in all countries), lack of finance for them is limiting the crea- Four years later, Greece is down by about was less than 1 percent of GDP. financing, there could be more crises and tion of decent jobs. The solution, he argued, is to introduce more a quarter of its pre-recession national This stimulus will likely make the differ- another debt restructuring ahead. And even competition into the small business lending market by capping income – one of the worst outcomes of a ence between growth and another year of if the return to growth this year convinces the share of individual banks. This proposal has caused much financial crisis in the past century, compara- recession. Most of the financing comes from investors to put their money in Greece, it controversy. ble to the worst downturn of the US’ Great EU grants, so it does not add to Greece’s debt. will take years for unemployment to reach But there is a quicker and simpler solution to this problem. It Depression. Unemployment has passed 27 In other words, the Greek economy is humane levels. is for the government to use its ownership of two of the big four percent and more than 58 percent for young going to grow next year because of a signifi- That is why it is so important to under- banks, RBS and Lloyds, to direct more lending to small businesses. people (under 25). cant policy reversal. The austerity, or fiscal stand the causes of Greece’s return to Thanks to the bailout following the 2008 financial crisis, RBS is There are fewer Greeks employed than tightening, is basically coming to an end. growth, if it happens (it could still be 81 percent owned by the government. This means it can tell RBS there have been at any time in the past 33 Why is this so important? Because the derailed by adverse shocks). The human what to do. It also owns 33 percent of Lloyds, and while this does years. And real public healthcare spending people who designed or supported the policy tragedy of the past five years in Europe, as not give it a total control over the bank, it is well above what is has been cut by more than 40 percent, at of the last four years will, when the Greek well as the repeated financial crises and normally considered a “controlling stake” in an enterprise. a time when people need the public health economy begins to recover, claim that the damage to the world economy caused by Now, if you can basically tell two of the four largest banks system more than ever. “austerity worked”. But even the IMF’s own bad policy there, could have been avoided what to do – say, to increase lending to small businesses – why go The IMF is the subordinate partner in the analysis of the Greek economy refutes this – as many economists have argued. But look- through the rigmarole of calculating their market shares and forc- “troika” (including the European Central Bank claim. ing forward, the eurozone is still stuck near ing them (and the other two) to sell off some of their branches? and the European commission) that has been The austerity can only “work” (if one record levels of unemployment (12.1 per- The usual refrain is that Westminster cannot make RBS and calling the shots for the Greek economy these accepts the obscenely high human cost of it) cent), and how soon it returns to normal Lloyds do things differently because, in order to survive, these past four years, but it is the one in charge of if the massive unemployment drives down will depend on how quickly the European banks need to behave like other competitors: generating as much putting numbers on the page. It repeatedly wages enough so that the economy becomes authorities are willing to reverse their poli- profit and paying their staff as much. projected economic recoveries for 2011, 2012, more competitive and can export its way cies for the region. This argument may be right if the existing business model of and 2013 that did not materialise. out of the recession. The IMF projects a THE GUARDIAN British banks and other financial companies is fine. But it is not. It is a business model that has caused the biggest financial crisis in 70 years and created imbalances and inequalities that threaten the future viability of the British economy. The problem with bonuses in the financial industry is not about their levels – if someone makes a huge contribution to the econ- omy, he or she should be richly rewarded. The main problem is Global unemployment that these bonuses are given to people for doing the wrong things well – things that harm the economy in order to enrich the shareholders, the top managers of banks and other financial firms. The estimated number of unemployed around the world was around 201.8 million in 2013, So the real question is how we make banks and other finan- an increase of 4.9 million compared to 2012. Minimal improvement is expected in the global labour cial firms pursue the right goals, rather than how much people should be paid, whether in bonuses or salaries. And the only way market in 2014, according to the International Labour Organization. to make them pursue different goals from those they pursue now is to change the rules of the game. UNEMPLOYMENT global and regional estimates 2012 2013 (preliminary est.) 2014 (projection) Unfortunately, few regulations have been introduced since the crisis that have materially changed the goals of financial compa- 12 percent nies. The result has been “business as usual”. All those complex and risky financial products that were at 11 the centre of the 2008 financial crisis – such as mortgage-backed 10 securities, collateralised debt obligations, credit default swaps and 9 other financial derivatives – are back in vogue again. 8 The credit rating agencies, whose incompetence and cynicism in rating those financial products has become legendary after the cri- 7 sis, are still operating in the same way. Thanks to Help to Buy, the 6 mortgage-lending market is nearly back to its old self. Now you can 5 get loans that are 95 percent equal to the value of the house – not 4 quite the 125 percent you could get before the crisis, but nearly there. In the absence of measures to encourage longer-term share- 3 holding – for instance, by granting more votes or tax advantages 2 – short term-oriented shareholders are still reigning supreme, 1 putting pressures on banks to generate short-term profits, what- 0 ever the consequences. The main problem with the British financial industry is not the World Developed Central and Latin East South-East South Middle North Sub-Saharan level of bonus, or even the concentration in the banking sector; Economies South-Eastern America Asia Asia and Asia East Africa Africa it is that the industry is pursuing goals that are detrimental to and European Europe* and the the Pacific the long-term economic viability of the country, in the process Union and CIS** Caribbean enriching only a tiny minority and sapping human and financial resources from the rest of the economy. Unless those goals are changed through better regulation, the Source: International Labour Organization * Non-EU ** Commonwealth of Independent States industry will remain harmful to the rest of the economy, whatever we do about bonuses and market concentration. Staff, R. Carrera, 20/01/2014 THE GUARDIAN Metro revamp unlikely despite Russia IPO plan

BY EMMA THOMASSON and hypermarkets and consumer electronics in Metro to cut debt or force Metro to and its United Kingdom and Moroccan with the unit’s founder, Erich Kellerhals. MATTHIAS INVERARDI chain, or be able to cash in on its recov- sell assets to pay a dividend but I don’t see cash-and-carry operations, while closing The billionaire Kellerhals, who pos- ering department stores, to enable it to what Metro could sell and really unlock electronics stores in China. sesses a blocking minority of close to 22 break-up of sprawling German focus on its core cash-and-carry business. value,” said one analyst, who declined to Metro has tried in vain for years to sell percent in Media-Saturn, has regularly retail group Metro AG looks be named. off its Kaufhof department stores and disagreed with Metro over its manage- unlikely despite speculation HIGHS AND LOWS Haniel denied a report earlier this Real hypermarkets divisions in Germany ment of the chain, delaying its move into Athat the planned sale of a stake Metro shares have gained more than month that it was pushing for a breakup to focus on cash-and-carry and consumer the fast-growing online market. in its Russian cash-and-carry unit is the 50 percent since last March, when Chief of the group to raise funds, including the electronics, which it feels have better Best Buy Co, the world’s largest con- start of more radical restructuring. Executive Olaf Koch took over direct sale or listing of Kaufhof department expansion prospects abroad. sumer electronics chain ahead of number Metro said on Monday its supervisory responsibility for the cash-and-carry stores, Real hypermarkets and Media- “There has been a back and forth 2 Media-Saturn, has seen its shares board had approved the sale of up to a wholesale business which accounts for Saturn consumer electronics chain. since 2008 about Kaufhof but nobody tumble after it warned of a bigger-than- quarter of its Russian cash-and-carry almost half of group sales. Investor newsletter Platow Brief has come forward who will pay a good expected decline in quarterly operat- business in a London listing in the first They now trade at 17 times expected reported that Haniel had threatened not price... Neither hypermarkets or depart- ing margins last week. “Media Markt half of this year. 2014 earnings, just above Europe’s big- to extend the contract of Chief Executive ment stores are concepts with much cannot be sold/IPOed unless minority The sale of the stake in Metro’s most gest retailer Carrefour on 16.8 times and Officer Koch, which runs until September future,” said Planet Retail analyst Bianca shareholder Kellerhals agrees. We also profitable unit should raise at least €1bn a big premium to number 2, Tesco, on 2015, if he did not agree to a breakup. A Casertano. believe there are no obvious buyers for ($1.36bn), help cut the company’s hefty 10.9 times. spokesman called the report “complete The hypermarket format has been Real Germany and an IPO... is unrealis- debt, as well as free up funds to grow the But they are still well below histori- nonsense”, adding that Haniel was not suffering as demographic trends such tic,” JP Morgan analysts wrote in a note, Russia unit and invest in other foreign cal levels, hurting the group’s biggest involved in Metro’s operating business. as ageing populations in Europe have adding that selling Kaufhof could dilute markets, like China and Turkey. shareholder, family-owned conglomer- accelerated a shift towards more local earnings per share by about 20 percent. The plan has stoked speculation that ate Haniel, which has been an investor SOLIDIFYING SUPPORT shopping, while department stores and However, analysts at Barclays said Metro, the world’s seventh-biggest in Metro since 1966 and cut its stake a In a possible further indication of sup- consumer electronics chains have been Metro could consider other options for retailer, could be preparing more dra- year ago to 30 percent from 34 percent. port for Koch, Metro’s supervisory board hit by online competition. Kaufhof, such as cutting store space or matic steps to rationalise its four busi- Haniel has been selling investments last week extended the contract of CFO subletting to a third party retailer. nesses that run over 2,200 outlets in 32 to cut its own debts but those efforts Mark Frese -- a close ally of the CEO KELLERHALS APPROVAL After Metro announced earlier this countries. The group has been working suffered a setback last week after the -- until December 2017. Metro shelved plans in 2009 to float month it was closing its cash and carry hard to improve performance since a failure of a bid from McKesson Corp Under the 43-year-old Koch, who joined Media-Saturn in the midst of the eco- business in Egypt, it should also consider shock cut to its dividend last March. for drug distributor Celesio, in which Metro in 2009 as CFO and took over as nomic crisis and a revival of that idea withdrawing from other loss-making But there is little immediate prospect Haniel has a 50.01 percent stake. CEO in 2012, the group has already sold seems unlikely, especially given the tough markets like Sweden and Japan, the that Metro will spin off its struggling “Haniel could further reduce its stake Real supermarkets in eastern Europe market and the group’s tense relationship Barclays analysts said. REUTERS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 22 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MARKET

QE Indices Summary EXCHANGE QE Index 11,179.61 0.29 % WORLD STOCK INDICES GOLD & SILVER QE Total Return Index 15,973.1 0.29 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 3,234.28 0.63 % RATE QE All Share Index 2,766.02 0.41 % INDEX Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low QE All Share Banks & Financial 2,662.27 0.76 % GOLD Buying Selling Services All Ordinaries 5331.333 -10.646 -0.2 5383.4 5215.5 QE All Share Consumer Goods & 6,051.05 0.38 % QR145.7985 US$ ...... QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 Services Cac 40 Index/D 4316.94 -6.93 -0.16 4351.21 4213.57 QE All Share Industrials 3,676.62 0.31 % SILVER UK ...... QR 5.9907 QR 6.0750 QE All Share Insurance 2,520.15 1.30 % Dj Indu Average 16414.44 -44.12 -0.27 16588.3 13623 Euro ...... QR 4.9076 QR 4.9758 QE All Share Real Estate 2,065.33 0.87 % QR 2.3426 CA$ ...... QR 3.2932 QR 3.3583 QE All Share Telecoms 1,572.9 1.16 % Egypt Cma Gn Idx 1026.29 32.57 3.28 999.95 312.38 QE All Share Transportation 1,955.86 0.22 % Swiss Fr ...... QR 3.9745 QR 4.0316 Hang Seng Inde/D 23082.25 49.13 0.21 23469.33 22567.77 Yen ...... QR 0.0346 QR 0.0353 QE Market Summary Comparison Aus$ ...... QR 3.2024 QR 3.2671 Today Previous day Iseq Overall/D 4846.53 7.31 0.15 4868.68 4522.4 CRUDE OIL 22-01-2014 21-01-2014 Ind Re ...... QR 0.0584 QR 0.0595 Index 11,179.61 11,147.39 Karachi 100 In/D 27015.12 -89.58 -0.33 27180.72 25273.11 Pak Re ...... QR 0.0342 QR 0.0349 Change 32.22 75.26 BRENT Nikkei 225 Index 15820.96 25 0.16 16164.01 15383.69 Peso ...... QR 0.0796 QR 0.0813 % 0.29 0.68 $ 107.24 SL Re ...... QR 0.0276 QR 0.0281 YTD% 7.71 7.40 S&P 500 Index/D 0 0 0 1850.84 1481.16 Taka ...... QR 0.0462 QR 0.0477 Volume 8,669,196 9,174,192 DUBAI Nep Re ...... QR 0.0367 QR 0.0374 Value (QAR) 470,535,280.37 432,177,151.91 Straits Times/D 3133.74 -0.02 0 3187.8 3115.8 SA Rand ...... QR 0.3330 QR 0.3395 Trades 4,794 5,030 Straits Times/D 2971.47 22.7 0.77 3035.78 2657.77 $ 104.17 Up 25 | Down 10 | Unchanged 06

QATAR EXCHANGE | DAILY TRADING REPORT | 22-01-2014

INTERNATIONAL MARKETS A List of Shares from the world

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A C C-A/D 1021 -10.45 7201 Colgate-A/D 1320.15 9.55 13718 Hind Unilever-/D 565.95 5.4 84877 Lakshmi Mach-B/D 2800 8.1 1387 Reliance Indus/D 354.4 1.5 53879 Land Secs Grou/D 1044 -1 1150747 Aarti Drugs-B/D 219 1.2 3529 Dai-Tichi Kar-/D 50.25 -1.75 1620 Hind.Petrol-A/D 237.05 3.35 67428 Lgb Broth-B/D 286.05 -0.1 3796 Ruchi Soya-B/D 33.8 0.25 56709 Legal & Genera/D 225.605 -2.3 3728166 Aban Offs-B/D 421.95 1.7 294306 Dcm Financia-B/D 0.73 0.03 4748 Hindalco-A/D 115.1 2.3 477604 Lloydsfin.-T/D 0.48 -0.02 4425 S Bk Bikaner-B/D 311.8 -2.05 4339 Lloyds Bnk Grp/D 83.2272 -0.35 31719111 Aegis Logis-B/D 169.9 6.15 15233 Dcm Shram Ind-/D 32.6 0.1 2239 Hous Dev Fin-A/D 842.25 4.9 116472 Lok.Hous&Con-T/D 14.05 -0.7 16178 Samtel-B/D 1.91 -0.09 1000 Marks & Sp./D 481.5 -0.5 1173222 Alembic-B/D 14.47 0.08 60899 Dhampur Sugar-/D 32.15 -0.35 3800 I F C I-A/D 24.65 0.55 482133 Lupin-A/D 928 20.05 76660 Tanfac Indust-/D 7.95 -0.35 2600 Next/D 6335 0 73033 Alok Indus-B/D 8 0.02 929524 Dr. Reddy-A/D 2683.15 31.1 5213 Idbi-A/D 63.5 -0.45 141110 Lyka Labs-B/D 12.22 -0.19 5099 Tanfac Indust-/D 7.95 -0.35 2600 Pearson/D 1308 -3 299619 Apollo Tyre-A/D 114.25 -1.65 837607 E I H-B/D 57 -0.45 13625 India Cement-B/D 54.05 -0.15 42755 Mafatlal Ind-B/D 157.65 -3.45 5234 Thirumalai-B/D 101.85 -1.3 3127 Prudential/D 1313 -20 1372141 Asahi I Glass-/D 47.25 -0.2 1859 E.I.D Parry-B/D 140 1.85 7310 India Glycol-B/D 95.95 -0.4 10287 Mangalam Cem-B/D 107.1 0.6 3545 Timexgroup-B/D 10.16 -0.06 27328 Rank Group/D 147.6 -2.4 14276 Ashok Leyland-/D 17.25 0.45 3011686 Electrosteel-B/D 14.31 0.09 25697 Indian Hotel-A/D 58 0.1 25674 Maral Overs-B/D 20 -0.05 9095 Tinplate-T/D 49.3 1 8039 Rentokil Initi/D 121 0.3 1244496 Bajaj Hold-A/D 930.25 6.65 9356 Emco-B/D 31.25 5.2 1009430 Indo-Bcount-B/D 40.8 0.8 12062 Mastek-B/D 179 -0.8 49035 Ub Engineer-T/D 13.5 0.4 2602 Rolls Royce Pl/D 1237 -9 1171081 Ballarpur In-B/D 12.87 0.04 136713 Escorts Fin-T/D 3.62 -0.19 1030 Indusind-A/D 434.3 0.5 81235 Max India L-A/D 197.6 -0.4 4189 Ub Engineer-T/D 13.5 0.4 2602 Rsa Insrance G/D 100.4 -1.8 6045268 Bata India-A/D 985.2 10.8 24376 Escorts-B/D 125.4 3.3 455463 J.B.Chemical-B/D 131 2.1 50182 Mrpl-A/D 43.5 0.75 52959 Ultramarine-B/D 44.5 -0.2 7134 Sainsbury(J)/D 364.5 -1.5 1284813 Beml Ltd-B/D 207.65 -2.45 26280 Essar Oil-A/D 52.8 0.55 1776466 Jagson Phar-B/D 11.64 0.1 14464 Nahar Spg.-B/D 113.7 2.85 10478 Unitech P -A/D 13.7 0 2199537 Schroders/D 2616 8 49714 Bhansali Eng-B/D 13.51 -0.71 2200 Eveready Indu-/D 37.6 1.75 126919 Jamnaauto-B/D 61.95 -1.55 1071 Nation Alum -A/D 36.95 0.45 28642 Severn Trent/D 1677 10 348636 Bharat Bijle-B/D 354.3 -8.4 1536 F D C-B/D 136.9 2.6 55240 Jbf Indu-B/D 76.15 0 3165 Navneet Edu-B/D 56 0.25 10238 LONDON Smith&Nephew/D 886.5 5 674523 Bhel-A/D 169.35 -0.8 7965801 Federal Bank-A/D 83.8 0.25 168008 Jct Elect P -T/D 0.48 -0.02 28375 Nepc India-B/D 3.54 0.16 24615 Smiths Group/D 1523 -2 85735 Bom.Burmah-B/D 106.85 -0.95 11207 Ferro Alloys-B/D 6.01 -0.33 37259 Jct Ltd-B/D 2 0.02 30467 Nrb Bearings-B/D 41.05 -0.4 10848 3I Group/D 393.1 -1.6 319826 Standrd Chart /D 1366 8 2650233 Bombay Dyeing-/D 63.85 0.55 275123 Finolex-B/D 152.75 -3.25 13743 Jenson&Nich.-B/D 2.3 0.05 16276 O N G C-A/D 289.6 2.65 93373 Assoc.Br.Foods/D 2817 11 536754 Tate & Lyle/D 793.25 1.5 192683 Canfin Homes-B/D 171 3.85 2587 Gail-A/D 342.85 -1.05 13770 Jik Indust-T/D 0.9 0.04 51151 Oil Country-B/D 34.3 -0.2 4830 B Sky B/D 860 3 1546872 Tesco/D 330.1 0.55 5098350 Castrol Ind-A/D 297.7 -1.35 16752 Gammon India-B/D 14.44 -0.1 22981 Jindal Drill-B/D 189.7 -2.25 1129 Onward Tech-T/D 50.2 -0.4 1003 Barclays/D 278.704 -1.85 15327777 Unilever/D 2504 24 1126969 Century Enka-B/D 153.1 2.95 10394 Gangotri Tex-T/D 1.12 -0.05 2425 Jktyre&Ind-B/D 165.85 1.85 84468 Orchid Chem-T/D 50.4 -0.15 37722 Bg Group/D 1315 -27 2535569 United Util Gr/D 699.5026 4 576812 Century Text-A/D 325.55 12.6 454055 Garden P -B/D 42 -1.5 4410 Jmc Projects-B/D 82.9 2.8 1735 Orient Hotel-B/D 16 0.05 28529 Bp/D 492.407 1.25 4926701 Vodafone Group/D 237.75 0.05 22019808 Chambal Fert-B/D 40.7 1.5 462175 Goodricke-B/D 132.65 0.3 4163 Kajaria Cer-B/D 311.15 15.2 16725 Orient.Carb.-B/D 99 -0.5 4324 Brit Am Tobacc/D 3160 12 800407 Whitbread/D 3929 3 260486 Chola Invest-B/D 257 1.95 2243 Goodyear I -B/D 375.65 7.6 3532 Kalpat Power-B/D 85 0.75 14235 Orient.Carb.-B/D 99 -0.5 4324 Bt Group/D 384.4 2.9 3668600 Chowgule St-T/D 12.03 0.57 15756 Hcl Infosys-B/D 27.15 -0.85 826581 Kalyani Stel-B/D 55.4 -0.65 25058 Patspin India-/D 7 0.22 1100 Centrica/D 324.625 2.3 3041411 Cimmco-T/D 18.2 -0.8 1026 Him.Fut.Comm-B/D 9.23 -0.25 496730 Kanoria Chem-B/D 26.1 0.25 1975 Punjab Chem.-T/D 56 1.5 1468 Gkn/D 400 0 938643 Cipla-A/D 422.1 4.85 142563 Himat Seide-B/D 60.55 2.25 78118 Kg Denim-B/D 15.85 0.15 4306 Radico Khait-B/D 159.85 7.6 1423553 Hsbc Holdings/D 671.4 -2.5 7012610 City Union Bk-/D 50.4 -0.2 14769 Hind Motors-B/D 7.63 -0.05 30028 Kilburnengg-T/D 18 0.25 4013 Rallis India-B/D 169.35 -6.75 31666 Imperial Tobac/D 2288 4 567914 Cmc Ltd-B/D 1511.95 26.9 16713 Hind Org Chem-/D 10.5 0.37 14795 Kopran-B/D 25 0.05 53508 Rallis India-B/D 169.35 -6.75 31666 Kingfisher/D 384.5 -0.9 875048 THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 23

All-Ireland World Cup bid gets Oklahoma beat Portland political backing

LONDON: Ministers from Gay scores 41 points as Sacramento Kings beat New Orleans Pelicans both sides of the border have signalled their backing for an NEW YORK: Kevin Durant It was a much needed win for all-Ireland bid to host the 2023 scored 46 points, his eighth the Heat, who entered Tuesday’s Rugby World Cup. straight game with at least contest having won just two of A meeting to discuss the bid 30, to lead the Oklahoma City their previous six games. involving the Belfast and Dublin Thunder to victory in a division The Celtics (14-29) lost their governments took place in showdown with the Portland 10th straight road game and also Armagh, in the British control- Trail Blazers suffered injuries to Avery Bradley led province of Northern Ireland, With the win, the Thunder (32- and Brandon Bass. yesterday. 10) took the lead in the Northwest Celtics point guard Rajon Northern Ireland executive Division from the Blazers (31-11). Rondo, in just his third game back sports minister Caral Ni Chuilin Oklahoma City trailed 95-90 after missing a year due to a knee and tourism minister Arlene with about three minute left, but injury, finished with one point and Foster held talks with their Durant caught fire and made a five assists. He missed all eight of Republic of Ireland counterparts, trio of three-pointers during a his field goal attempts. Leo Varadkar and Michael Ring. 15-0 Thunder run. Kevin Love flirted with a triple- The quartet formed a working LaMarcus Aldridge paced double with 19 points, 12 rebounds group which will report to both Portland with 29 points and 16 and eight assists as Minnesota governments in a few months, rebounds. Wesley Matthews added routed the Jazz for the second time with ministers then deciding 21 points on 7-for-15 shooting. in four nights. whether to back a bid. Playing a third consecutive On Saturday, the Timberwolves “The island of Ireland has a lot game without guard Dwyane blew out Utah by 26 points. to offer the global rugby family Wade (knee soreness), LeBron In the rematch, Utah’s Gordon and there would be a lot of ben- James led the way with 29 points Hayward finished with a game- efits to be gained by hosting such a as the Miami Heat defeated the high 27 points with five rebounds prestigious event,” said Ni Chuilin. Boston Celtics. and five assists in his first game “The executive is investing £110 The Heat scored the last nine in two weeks after being sidelined million in upgrading stadia in points of the game to earn the with a left hip flexor. Miami Heat small forward LeBron James (6) dribbles the ball around Boston Celtics small forward Gerald Wallace Belfast, which includes the rede- win and improve to 30-12, good Utah (14-29), however, only had (45) in the second half of their NBA game at American Airlines Arena. The Heat won 93-86. velopment of Ravenhill (the home for second place in the Eastern two other players in double figures. of provincial side Ulster). Conference. Corey Brewer added 19 for the “While we would have world Wolves who also got 11 points and added a 30-footer at the buzzer to eight-game losing streak with Paul Pierce each added 13 points class venues to host the Rugby 13 assists from Ricky Rubio. end the third quarter with a 91-70 a road win against Memphis on as Brooklyn improved to an NBA- World Cup, there is a lot of work NBA Results Rudy Gay matched his career Sacramento lead. Monday, fell to 16-25. They got 17 best 8-1 in January. required to get us into a position Brooklyn Nets 101 Orlando 90 high with 41 points, including five Isaiah Thomas added 20 points from guard Tyreke Evans. While the Magic proved pesky to make a successful bid.” Miami 93 Boston 86 of eight from three-point range, points and 11 assists and center The Brooklyn Nets continue in the first half, the Nets (18-22) An optimistic Varadkar added: Utah 97 Minnesota 112 to lift the Sacramento Kings to DeMarcus Cousins had 18 points their red-hot month with a vic- outscored Orlando 27-14 in the “Minister Ring and I were New Orleans 97 Sacramento 114 a victory over the New Orleans and 11 rebounds for the Kings tory over the Orlando Magic. third quarter to build a double- delighted to meet with ministers Pelicans. (15-25). Andray Blatch led the Nets digit lead. Foster and Ni Chuilin to discuss Oklahoma 105 Portland 97 Gay made 16 of 25 shots and also The Pelicans, who snapped an with 18 points, Joe Johnson and REUTERS the possibility of making a formal bid for the 2023 Rugby World Cup. “It’s still very early days, but the four of us believe that Ireland has what it takes to host a cracking World Cup.” Although the island of Ireland Gase withdraws from Browns coaching bid was partitioned nearly a century ago, the national rugby union team NEW YORK: Denver Broncos the Seattle Seahawks. City Chiefs running back Jamaal years in the Arizona Cardinals’ injured in Sunday’s loss to the has remained united, unlike foot- offensive coordinator Adam Harbaugh said at his press con- Charles are on Deion Sanders’ front office, the last season as vice Denver Broncos, according to ball where there are sides repre- Gase informed the Cleveland ference that he wasn’t aware that team. president of player personnel. MassLive.com. senting both Northern Ireland and Browns he is withdrawing from Gore suffered an injury until after Since Rice chose the captain The Philadelphia Eagles hired Talib, named to the 2013 All-Pro the southern Republic. consideration for the team’s the game. group, Sanders’ team will have former Minnesota Vikings offen- team, suffered no structural dam- While events such as an Olympic head coaching position. Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea. the first pick in Tuesday and sive coordinator Bill Musgrave as age in his knee in the collision with Games or a football World Cup are Gase called the Browns on com reported that Gore, who Wednesday night’s drafts. Both their quarterbacks coach. former teammate Wes Welker. probably beyond the scope of even Tuesday, informing them he would had just 14 yards on 11 carries on night’s drafts begin at 8 pm ET. Musgrave, 46, takes over for New York Giants owner John an all-Ireland bid, there is a belief not interview and wants to focus Sunday, will have minor surgery The NFL announced that former Eagles quarterbacks coach Mara plans to talk contract with the island already has the stadium solely on the Super Bowl. Denver to repair the injury. Washington Redskins linebacker Bill Lazor, who left to become the head coach Tom Coughlin in the and associated infrastructure to will meet the Seattle Seahawks in After winning the coin toss on Brian Orakpo has been selected to Miami Dolphins’ offensive coordi- near future. manage the lesser demands of a Super Bowl XLVIII on February Tuesday, NFL great Jerry Rice the 2014 Pro Bowl in place of San nator last week. Mara said the 68-year-old Rugby World Cup 2 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. picked New Orleans quarterback Francisco 49ers linebacker Ahmad Longtime New England Patriots Coughlin, the oldest coach in the “An event of this scale will not San Francisco 49ers coach Drew Brees and St Louis defen- Brooks. assistant coach Pepper Johnson NFL, has been focused on making only have a great benefit for rugby Jim Harbaugh said on Tuesday sive end Robert Quinn for his Pro The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced he is leaving the improvements necessary to get the but will also raise the profile of that running back Frank Gore Bowl team. hired Jason Licht as their general organisation. team back in contention after a what sport can do for the coun- broke his right ring finger during That means Houston Texans manager, multiple media outlets. New England Patriots corner- 7-9 season in 2013. try,” said Ring. Sunday’s NFL title game loss to defensive end J.J. Watt and Kansas Licht, 42, spent the previous two back Aqib Talib was not seriously REUTERS AFP Toronto prevail over Colorado

NEW YORK: Phil Kessel scored two goals, James van Riemsdyk had a goal and an assist, and the surging Toronto Maple Leafs held off the Colorado Avalanche for their sixth straight win. Nazem Kadri also scored, and goaltender James Reimer had 35 saves for Toronto (27-20-5). The Maple Leafs have won six in a row for the first time since Dec. 23 2005 to Jan. 2 2006. Center Nathan MacKinnon had two goals for Colorado (31- 13-5), who had their four-game winning streak snapped. The New Jersey Devils blitzed the St. Louis Blues for three first-period goals and never looked back in a lopsided victory. Because of brutal weather conditions that hit most of the northeast throughout the day, only about 2,000 fans were in attendance. Vancouver Canucks Goalie Roberto Luongo (1) slides across the net to make a blocker save on the shot New Jersey (21-19-11) had by Edmonton Oilers Right Wing Jordan Eberle (14) in the second period of their NHL game at Rexall Place. seven different goal-scorers, while St. Louis (33-11-5) goal- Jackets beat Los Angeles to set on the power play in a win over longest skid since dropping eight tender Brian Elliott was pulled a franchise record with their the Minnesota Wild. straight in December 2010. after allowing three goals on seventh straight win. Defenceman Alex Goligoski NHL leading goal-scorer Alex nine shots. Ryan Johansen, Artem chipped in a pair of assists for Ovechkin missed the game for R.J. Umberger scored two Anisimov and Nathan Horton Dallas (22-20-8), who had four the Capitals (22-20-8) with a goals, and the Columbus Blue also scored for Columbus (25- goal-scorers and also got 18 saves lower-body injury. 20-4), who have not lost since from goalie Kari Lehtonen, who Sean Bergenheim and Ed Jan. 4 in St. Louis. earned his second shutout of the Jovanovski scored late in the first NHL Results The Kings (29-16-6) have lost season and 24th of his career. period as the Florida Panthers three in a row. Darcy Kuemper stopped 32 beat the Buffalo Sabres. Edmonton 1 Vancouver 2 Jeff Carter scored his 20th shots for the Wild (27-20-5), who Florida (20-23-7) trailed 2-1 Anaheim 2 Winnipeg 3 goal of the season for Los were outshot 36-18. before their surge in the opening Colorado 2 Toronto 5 Angeles to tie the game 2-2 in The Ottawa Senators received period, and they took a 4-2 lead Dallas 4 Minnesota 0 the second but the Blue Jackets goals from centers Kyle Turris after Nick Bjugstad’s goal in the Buffalo 3 Florida 4 ran off three straight scores to and Jason Spezza and a 34-save second. New Jersey 7 St Louis 1 pull away. effort from goaltender Craig Goaltender Tim Thomas made NY Rangers 3 NY Islanders 5 After winning just once in Anderson in a win over the 32 saves for the Panthers, while their first 10 games of January, Capitals. Drew Stafford scored twice for Washington 0 Ottawa 2 the Dallas Stars delivered their Washington’s loss was their the Sabres (13-28-7). Columbus 5 Los Angeles 3 best effort of 2014, scoring twice sixth in a row (0-4-2), their REUTERS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 24 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT Giant-killer Stan Lack of practice led ready for Berdych MELBOURNE: Giant-killer Stanislas Wawrinka said he’s expecting no emotional let-down following his stunning upset of Novak Djokovic when he plays Tomas Berdych for a place in the Australian Open final today. to defeat: Murray The Swiss eighth seed sent the tennis world into a spin when he dumped the three-time defending champion out of the year’s opening Grand Slam in a gripping five-set quarter-final. It was Djokovic’s earliest exit at a Slam since his quarter-final loss Scot confident he is on right track after back surgery to Jurgen Melzer at the 2010 French Open, and set Wawrinka up with a semi-final against Czech seventh seed Berdych. Thursday’s last-four clash will be Wawrinka’s second straight MELBOURNE: A frustrated “But I hung in well. I pushed Grand Slam semi-final after losing to Djokovic at last year’s US Andy Murray blamed his lack of through it, almost got myself back Open, also in five sets. match practice following back in the match.” And Wawrinka now has a great chance to reach his first major surgery for his quarter-final Murray admitted 17-times final, as he leads Berdych 8-5 in their career meetings and got past defeat against Roger Federer at grand slam champion Federer the Czech over four sets in last year’s US Open fourth round. the Australian Open yesterday. was too good in the opening two The calm Swiss with the rapier one-handed backhand had no The Wimbledon champion had sets as he rushed to the net and doubts he will be mentally prepared to handle the challenge of beaten Federer at Melbourne forced a number of uncharacter- Berdych, who beat world number three David Ferrer in the quarters. Park 12 months ago in the semi- istic errors from the Scot. “I think the most important (question) is will I be ready physically, finals but failed to repeat the feat But the 32-year-old Swiss got because it was a tough battle against Novak,” he said. at this year’s tournament. Despite tight when he tried to serve it out “But mentally I’m going to be ready, for sure. I’m happy to be here. saving two match points to force in the third and Murray, playing I’m playing good tennis. There is no sign that I’m not going to play a fourth set, Murray went down more aggressively, fought back well in the semi-final. 6-3 6-4 6-7(6) 6-3. superbly to take the tie break “I’m still far from winning the tournament. Two matches, and the After going under the knife 8-6. most difficult ones.” four months ago and playing only After holding on in a 19-minute Much has been made of the improvement in Wawrinka’s tennis over two competitive matches before game early in the fourth set, the last 18 months as he shows the fruits of his work under Swedish arriving in Melbourne, Murray Murray was finally broken in the coach Magnus Norman, a semi-finalist at the Australian Open in 2000. came up short against Federer, eighth game and Federer held At last year’s edition Wawrinka was ranked 17, now he is eight and who played outstanding tennis in from 0-30 to clinch his place in could even supplant his great friend Roger Federer as Switzerland’s the opening two sets. the semi-finals. number one player at the end of this tournament. “It’s frustrating because you Despite the defeat, Murray said “Last year I made a big jump. I trust myself when I go on court. put in a lot of hard work for this he was confident he is on the right I know that I can beat those players. I try everything to beat them. long period,” said the Scot. track after surgery. Even when I lose I go back and practise to try to improve,” he said. “This time I had a long time to “I don’t know how many players “We have had some amazing results already together. It’s my second prepare, maybe just not enough have come back from surgery and semi-final with Magnus. He’s pushing me every day on the practice matches.” won the first grand slam back, in court before and after matches. He’s a great guy and a really good But Murray was proud of the their second tournament,” he said. coach.” way he fought back, breaking “It’s very unlikely to happen. Berdych’s confidence is also sky-high after overcoming commit- Federer when he served for the “I just need to use this as a ted Spanish baseline slugger Ferrer in four sets, and he is primed to match at 5-4 in the third set and stepping stone to getting bet- achieve his greatest career success by winning in Melbourne. then saving two match points in ter and be happy that I’ve got “It would be really the top of my career so far, definitely. I mean, the tie break to extend the match. through five matches. The last there’s no question about it,” he said. “But we still have two matches “That’s the highest level I’ve two were particularly tough. left. If you look at the opponents that you might face in the semis and played at in a long time,” he said. “I’m playing at a decent level possibly in the final, really that’s why you play tennis and why it’s so “My serve slowed down a bit in fairly quickly again. Hopefully Andy Murray of Britain reacts during his quarter final match against Roger special when you get to the last stages of the tournament. the fourth set, especially the first I’ll be back playing my best ten- Federer of Switzerland at the Australian Open Grand Slam tennis tournament “So really I’m going to give it a try and see what’s going to happen.” couple points when I was getting nis soon.” in Melbourne yesterday. AFP up after the change of ends. REUTERS Djokovic backs Becker despite shock Aussie Open exit MELBOURNE: Novak Djokovic said their first official outing since his surprise “Speaking to Marian in the last few serve,” he explained. “He’d been chipping he’s prepared to give his new part- decision to hire the German great. months of the year, we both came to the the return for the whole match basically. nership with Boris Becker (pictured) “Well, look it’s been the first official conclusion that I’m going to need another “And it was actually a good decision. I more time despite seeing his 25-match tournament for us. I’m satisfied with legendary player that can eventually help had a good serve and volley and good vol- Australian Open winning streak come things that we’ve been talking about and me understand better what I need to do ley, but didn’t put it away.” to a halt in their first tournament working on,” Djokovic said after his defeat. in particular situations, especially in the Djokovic took his defeat graciously and together. “Of course, it’s unfortunate that we Grand Slam final stages. To give me that said: “I’ve won many trophies in Australia. The three-time defending champion’s finished the tournament in the quarter- mental edge. I love Rod Laver Arena. These are the unbeaten run in Melbourne was brought finals. But it’s beginning of the season and “He can identify with me because he kind of matches that you work for, you to a dramatic end by Swiss seed Stanislas we’ll see what’s coming next.” was in those situations so he knows what live for, you practise for. Wawrinka in a five-set epic quarter-final Djokovic hired Becker last month after I go through, so that’s what one of the “I have to be very proud of my accom- late on Tuesday. his regular coach, Marian Vajda, asked for biggest reasons he’s on board.” plishments in my whole career, and espe- It was the six-time Grand Slam cham- more time with his family, and in hope of Ironically, Djokovic conjured memo- cially in this tournament. This is definitely pion’s earliest exit at a Slam since his sharpening his mental edge. The two will ries of three-time Wimbledon champion by far my most successful Grand Slam. quarter-final loss to Jurgen Melzer at the now split coaching duties. Becker when he gambled to serve-volley “You know, unfortunately somebody has 2010 French Open, and his first defeat to “He’s a six-time Grand Slam champion, on match point, only to steer a regula- to lose in the end. This year was me. I lost Wawrinka in 15 matches. he won so many trophies in his life, he tion forehand wide and hand Wawrinka to a better player. He showed his mental But Djokovic refused to blame Becker was a former number one,” Djokovic said victory. strength and he deserved to win.” for his disappointing showing in what was at the time. “(Wawrinka) had been blocking my AFP QSAA Heir Apparent Formula One meets Alien for new season LONDON: Formula One’s new the nose on his team’s yet-to-be- showing off a new, blacker livery “Kids should be dreaming when crop of cars will look like some- revealed 2014 creation. while avoiding a front-end view. they see a Formula One car. I don’t thing out of a science fiction The new cars will hit the track They said the front of the car was know what sort of dream or night- Cup begins today horror movie with front ends for the first time in testing at a temporary solution and would mare you will get when you look that are the stuff of nightmares, Jerez in southern Spain next look very different for the start of at those cars. DOHA: The QSAA Heir according to Caterham principal Tuesday but some teams are the season in March. “It does remind me of Alien... Apparent Cup will begin today Cyril Abiteboul. discreetly presenting them this “It is going to be ugly,” Abiteboul with something coming out of the at Losail Shooting Range. “It does remind me a little week online. said of the Renault-powered mouth and whatever. It’s not very Around 150 local shooters and bit of the monster in Alien,” the Force India released a side-on Caterham, which will be unveiled nice.” archers will take part in the event, Frenchman said when asked about image of their VJM07 yesterday, in the Jerez pitlane on Tuesday. REUTERS organised by Qatar Shooting and Archery Association (QSAA), which will conclude on February 8. The championship will start Leuvan club vs Qatar with the skeet event, with the pre- event training today in the men’s Tanaka, Yankees category, for both seniors and jun- iors, starting at 2.30 pm. in $155m deal The championships, part of the NEW YORK: Right-hander QSAA calendar, will serve as an taking part in the Heir Apparent Masahiro Tanaka has signed a ideal preparation for the upcoming Cup, informed the QSAA official. seven-year, $155m deal to join Qatar Open, to be held at the same Last week, Nasser finished third the New York Yankees, ESPN venue from February 12. in the challenging Dakar Rally. He reported yesterday, making QSAA Secretary-General is likely to take part in Qatar Open the Japanese ace the fifth high- Abdulla Ali Al Mutawa Al next month. est paid pitcher in all of Major Hammadi (pictured) said new The archery competition con- League Baseball. ISSF rules will be enforced dur- sists of 70 metres Recurve for Tanaka was a perfect 24-0 with ing the championships. women. Men will compete in the the Japanese Series champion “QSAA has conducted a few 70 metres Recurve and 50 metres Rakuten Golden Eagles last sea- clinics for the shooters to get use Compound events. The action son and regarded as one of the to the new rules,” said the QSAA will begin on January 25 with the prize catches of the off-season. official. women’s Recurve qualification He was reportedly pursued “Our shooters are familiar rounds. by a dozen major league teams, with the rules and we hope to Next month, QSAA will con- including the Los Angeles have thrilling competitions in duct an international course for Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, Arizona various events in the rifle, pistol referees and judges. The four-day Diamondbacks, and Chicago and shotgun categories for men, course will begin on February 7. White Sox. women and junior participants,” Apart from local officials, officials But it was the Yankees, look- Hammadi said. from Iran, Bahrain and Saudi ing to return to the World Series Ace shooter and car rally hero Arabia are expected to attend the after missing out on the post- Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah, a 2012 course. season last year, who got his Players from Leuvan Hockey Club, Belgium, and Qatar national team in action at Al Rayyan Hockey Stadium THE PENINSULA Olympic Games bronze medal signature. yesterday. Qatar is preparing for the first West Asia Cup, which will begin on February 16 in Doha. winner in shooting, will not be REUTERS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 25

Bayern’s Dante dismisses Man Man City reach FA Cup final United talk

Pellegrini’s side reaches Wembley with 9-0 aggregate rout of West Ham BERLIN: Bayern Munich defender Dante (pictured) has dismissed reports Manchester LONDON: Manchester City Hammers boss Sam Allardyce United are interested in sign- swept into the League Cup final handed Andy Carroll his first ing the Brazil centre-back from with a ruthless 3-0 win at West start since the final game of last Germany’s European and Club Ham on Tuesday night which season after the England striker’s World Cup champions. completed a 9-0 aggregate vic- long struggle with a foot injury. United need a new central tory in a brutally one-sided Given the inevitability of City’s defender with the future of veter- semi-final. progress to Wembley and, with an ans Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Manuel Pellegrini’s side had adult ticket for the match costing Vidic unclear, but Dante has said already effectively booked their £42, it was hardly surprising to he is not the man for the job. place at Wembley after winning see vast swathes of empty claret “I have said a thousand times the first leg 6-0 at Eastlands, but and blue seats around Upton that I feel com- they didn’t take it easy in the Park. fortable here,” return at Upton Park. The 20,000 stay-away fans the 30-year- Alvaro Negredo and Sergio couldn’t be blamed and their old defender, Aguero put City two goals up decision looked even wiser as who won the before half-time in east London West Ham’s creaky defence was first of his 10 and Negredo struck again after breached with less than three caps for Brazil the break to cap another clini- minutes played. in January cal display from one of the most City’s teenage Portuguese 2013, said in potent strike-forces in Europe. winger Marcos Lopes had time Munich. City will face arch rivals and space to float a cross into “I have only Manchester United in the final on the six-yard box, where Spanish got Bayern March 2 if David Moyes’ side can striker Negredo rose completely Munich in my overturn a 2-1 deficit in the sec- unmarked to power a header head.” ond leg of their semi-final against past Jussi Jaaskelainen from Dante flatly Sunderland at Old Trafford. close-range. denied reports “It was a very professional per- The muted City celebra- he has been formance. It was easy to think the tions suggested even they were approached game was finished from the 6-0 in slightly embarrassed at the ease by David Moyes’ United in the the first leg, but it was important of both the goal and their path to January transfer window with a to reach the final winning all the Wembley. clear “no!”. games,” Pellegrini said after his West Ham’s Kevin Nolan had He is under contract with team had sealed the biggest ever the ball in the net moments later Bayern until June 2016 and winning margin in a League Cup but his strike was ruled out for Manchester City’s Alvaro Negredo (left) heads to score against West Ham United during their English League the Selecao star is negotiating semi-final. offside and City were quickly back Cup semi-final second leg match at Boleyn Ground in London on Tuesday night. a contract extension with Pep “Wembley is always important. on the attack as Aguero fired into Guardiola’s Munich. To me it is the same whoever we the side-netting. “We’re not there yet and there play there.” Aguero, making his first start stood statuesque as the impres- half-time as he took off Carroll in their sights when Negredo is still a long way to go before we With City in possession of a since December after a calf injury, sive Lopes advanced into the pen- to keep him free from injury for barged his way through the sign an extension,” said Dante. seemingly unassailable advantage, threatened again with a surging alty area, where the ball ran for the more important task of saving Hammers defence once again His advisor Marcus Marin also Pellegrini made eight changes run and shot which Jaaskelainen Aguero to calmly sweep a low shot West Ham from relegation. before stretching to clip his shot confirmed they are only negotiat- from the side that beat Cardiff in pushed away for a corner. past Jaaskelainen for his 22nd West Ham held the record for over Jaaskelainen in the 59th ing with Bayern. the Premier League on Saturday. But Aguero wasn’t to be denied goal of the campaign. the most goals scored in a League minute for his 23rd goal of the “For some time, we have been The impressive depth of City’s for long as the Argentine forward Aguero’s class is undeniable Cup semi-final, when Martin season. In the end, City settled for in conversation with FC Bayern, expensively assembled squad was punished more woeful West Ham but he showed the ugly side of Peters, Geoff Hurst, Bobby Moore just three goals and their thoughts they are the only ones who inter- on full display as the Chilean defending to increase City’s lead his game soon after when he was and company racked up a 10-3 had already turned to Wembley est us, Marin told Sport Bild. was still able to field the likes of in the 24th minute. fortunate to escape with a yellow aggregate win over Cardiff in long before the final whistle put “There is no reason to think Negredo, Aguero, Jesus Navas and West Ham centre-backs Roger card for a stamp on Tomkins. 1966. West Ham out of their misery. about anyone else.” AFP Fernandinho. Johnson and James Tomkins Allardyce surrendered at And City had that achievement AFP Benzema edges Real towards Curitiba World Cup Cup semis venue at risk of being

MADRID: Real Madrid took a huge step towards the Copa del Nice’s French dropped, says Valcke Rey semi-finals with a 1-0 win forward Neal RIO DE JANEIRO: away to Espanyol in the first- Maupay (left) Curitiba the other 11 venues, it has been leg of their quarter-final tie on vies with risks being dropped as a venue beset by problems. Tuesday night. for this year’s World Cup Back in December work at Marseille’s Karim Benzema got the only finals if work on the stadium the stadium was temporarily Cameroonian goal of the game as he headed there fails to make significant halted when workers walked off home Alvaro Arbeloa’s cross on defender Nicolas progress, FIFA secretary gen- the site in protest at not receiv- 25 minutes. Nkoulou at eral Jerome Valcke said on ing backpay. Espanyol were indebted to the Velodrome Tuesday night. As well as fatal accidents at goalkeeper Kiko Casilla for not stadium in “We cannot organise a match three stadiums -- Sao Paulo, having an even greater deficit to Marseille, south- without a stadium, this has Brasilia and Manaus -- there overcome next Tuesday at the ern France, dur- reached a critical point,” said has been widespread concern Santiago Bernabeu as he made a ing the French Valcke. at Brazil’s ability to overcome string of fine saves to keep his side Cup football Valcke, who has not held back logistical issues, including a poor in the tie. match on from making critical remarks transport network and sky-high However, they should have Tuesday night. about preparations in the host hotel prices. snatched a draw on the night as nation during the lead-up to All 12 venues were supposed Colombian striker Jhon Cordoba the finals, said he hoped rapid to meet a FIFA completion fired straight at Iker Casillas progress would be made so that deadline of December 31, but when played through on goal eight Curitiba would not miss out on world football’s governing body minutes from time. hosting matches. was forced to drop the date last That save extended Casillas Curitiba is set to host four month after a slew of delays. personal record of not having con- group matches, including the Quite apart from the sta- ceded for the last 592 minutes in meeting of holders Spain and dium delays, sagging transport which he has kept goal and Real Australia. infrastructure across the con- boss Carlo Ancelotti lauded the “What is there to say?” said tinent-sized country remains Spanish captain’s professional- Valcke, speaking after paying a an additional major worry for ism having been dropped from La visit to the stadium. organisers. Liga duty in favour of Diego Lopez “It is a delicate question. But Earlier Tuesday, Brazil’s avi- action for over a year. Nice condemn Marseille to let us be frank and direct about ation authority revealed that “I congratulate Iker because he it. Fortaleza airport in the north is doing very well, he deserves his “As you must know the of the country is delaying major record for his professionalism,” he present situation at the stadium renovations until after the said. barren season in Cup thriller is not to our liking. World Cup, opting for plan B “He made a save at the end “Not only is it very behind in -- an improvised tent terminal. and has played very well in all PARIS: Struggling French which has also seen them knocked 2-1 away at another second tier its construction, but it has failed Fortaleza will stage four the games in which he has played. giants Marseille face a trophy- out of the Champions League team, former French champions to meet any of the deadlines set games in all, including Brazil’s We have a lot of games at the less season after they were group stage with no points and in Lens -- Bastia’s city rivals Ligue 2 by FIFA. meeting with their Olympic con- moment and so both (goalkeep- knocked out of the French Cup Ligue 1 they trail 18 points behind CA Bastia saved Corsican honour “It is not that we want the querors Mexico on June 17. ers) are playing the same number in a nine goal thriller on Tuesday leaders PSG. by defeating Niort 5-4 on penal- stadium to be ready by February Brazil’s airport system needs of games and Iker is as important night, going down 5-4 at home Marseille coach Jose Anigo, ties after the all second tier clash 18, but simply that we want to a major overhaul but much of it as Diego Lopez is.” to fellow Ligue 1 side Nice. who stepped in when Elie Baup ended 2-2 after extra-time. see progress made (by the time will not materialise until after Ancelotti had named a very Marseille, lacking the financial was sacked in December, said that Lens, presently third in Ligue 2, of the next FIFA evaluation the World Cup has been and strong starting line-up and was clout to compete with well funded several players simply hadn’t doen went through thanks to a beauty visit). gone in a country where air rewarded with a commanding bitter rivals Paris Saint-Germain their job but refused to be too of a winner by Senegalese inter- “A lot of people want to come travel is often the only way to display from his side as they and also Monaco, showed some depressed about the defeat. national Deme N’Diaye which had here, the World Cup holders cover large distances. extended their unbeaten run in spirit in the second-half with “It is more disappointing than coach Antoine Kombouare run- have to play here,” said Valcke, FIFA’s president Sepp Blatter all competitions to 18 games. Andre-Pierre Gignac bringing a massive blow,” said Anigo. ning up and down the touchline who was roundly criticised by earlier this month criticised the And the Italian was delighted them back to 4-3 with a wonder- “There were some enormous in an exuberant celebration. the Brazilians after last year Brazilians for starting prepa- to take a lead into the second-leg ful overhead kick, his second goal individual errors for which I am Kombouare, formerly coach indelicately suggesting the rations too late after being despite holding on a little towards of the game. powerless to do anything about on of Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint- country needed a “kick up the selected as hosts back in 2007. the end. However, former Marseille the touchline,” added the 52-year- Germain, had made some changes backside.” President Dilma Rousseff “This is the quarter-finals of player Fabrice Abriel restored the old, a Marseille man through and to personnel for the match after “We hope, therefore, that the retorted that demand for tickets the Cup so you have to play your two goal advantage and although through having played 200 games being dissatisfied with their per- conversations we have had with had been not just hugely over- strongest team and it is clear that veteran Souleymane Diawara -- for them and been part of the formances of late, and he was the State Government and the subscribed but greater than for the tie is still alive. who had scored an own goal in the coaching staff since 2001. delighted with the reaction. Curitiba city council will pro- any other World Cup. “We only struggled in the last first-half -- made it 5-4 the fans Earlier, three Ligue 1 clubs had “This is one of our best per- duce the desired results, which Rousseff insisted that sug- 20 minutes. I thought the team had run out of hope and already been eliminated by sides from formances of the season,” he said. will not see the city excluded gested the public at large have did very well and played with headed for the exits. lower divisions including Corsican “In terms of emotion, this is from the Cup.” faith in Brazil’s ability to organ- quality, rhythm and intensity. Marseille’s elimination from duo Ajaccio and Bastia. huge. We didn’t back off from It is estimated that the sta- ise the “Cup of Cups.” “We kept a clean sheet, the the Cup follows a week after they Ajaccio, bottom of Ligue 1, the first minute to the last and dium in Curitiba is 90 percent The finals run from June 12 team played well and I am happy.” were knocked out of the League went down 2-1 at home to Ligue we have emerged with enormous completed but, like many of to July 13. AFP AFP Cup and carries on a dreadful run 2 side Caen while Bastia also lost credit from this game. AFP THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 26 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

Qatar Masters Results

Coetzee sole leader after DOHA: First-round scores from the Qatar Masters at 7,400-yard Doha Golf Club (DGC) yesterday.

64 George Coetzee, South round 1 at Qatar Masters Africa 33-31 65 Dawie van der Walt, South Africa 31-34; Steve Steve Webster produces stunning albatross on day one at DGC Webster, England 34-31 66 Rafa Cabrera-Bello, Spain BY RIZWAN REHMAT 34-32; Francois Calmels, France 34-32; Nacho DOHA: South Africa’s George Elvira, Spain 34-32; Ross Coetzee yesterday launched his Fisher, England 34-32; Qatar Masters campaign in dream fashion, producing a dou- 67 Gaganjeet Bhullar, India ble eagle on the first hole to grab 36-31; Thomas Aiken, the lead with eight-under-par South Africa 33-34; John 64 after round one at the $2.5m South Africa’s George Daly, United States 33-34; event. Coetzee tees off on Paul Lawrie, Scotland After nailing the 5-par hole in hole 14 at Doha Golf 35-32; Branden Grace, three just three shots, Coeztee Course during round South Africa 34-33; Ernie reeled off six birdies to leapfrog one of the Qatar Els, South Africa 35-32 Englishman Steve Webster who Masters. Coetzee earlier in the day became the 68 Matthew Baldwin, yesterday launched England 32-36; Mikko first player ever to produce an his Qatar Masters albatross on the opening hole of Ilonen, Finland 35-33; campaign in dream Tom Lewis, England a European Tour event. fashion, producing Despite stuttering with a bogey 35-33; Thongchai Jaidee, a double eagle on Thailand 34-34; Alejandro on hole six, Webster, produced five the first hole to grab Canizares, Spain 33-35; birdies to card seven under par Henrik Stenson, Sweden 65 and share second place with lead with a card of 34-34; John Morrison, South Africa’s Dawie van Der eight under par 64. England 33-35; Michael Walt. PICTURE: IBRAHIM KUTTY Hoey, Northern Ireland With warm sunshine attracting 33-35; Thorbjorn Olesen, a decent crowd at Doha Golf Club Denmark 32-36; Simon (DGC), Spain’s Rafa Cabrera- Dyson, England 35-33; Bello, compatriot Nacho Elvira, Shiv Kapur, India 36-32; France’s Francois Calmels and Seve Benson, England Englishman Ross Fisher ended 35-33 the end day with six under par 66 to sit joint fourth on the leaderboard. In a stunning show of good form played,” Coetzee said. “I think I from last week in Abu Dhabi, had 21 putts with a 3 putt, so that India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar joined goes to show, I can hit the ball a five others for an impressive card little bit better,” he added. Bhullar, Kapur of five under par 67 at the 7,400- “I’m busy working on stuff on yard course. South African trio my swing, so it’s nice to shoot Thomas Aiken, Ernie Els and good numbers when you’re busy Branden Grace, former champion working on stuff. But I can’t wait Paul Lawrie and American John for it to click because might be lead Asian Dawie van Daly were tied for joint fifth with unstoppable,” Coetzee said. der Walt of Bhullar. The loudest cheer was reserved South Africa in Title favourite Henrik Stenson for Webster who dropped the ball action at DGC of Sweden impressed after miss- into the cup on hole one with five- yesterday. Van charge in Doha ing the cut in Abu Dhabi last wood approach from 254 yards. der Walt is joint week by carding four under par 68 Webster was thrilled with his second with DOHA: yesterday while former champion round one performance. Steve Webster. India’s Gaganjeet of his compatriots will join them Alvaro Quiros of Spain ended the “.....254 to the pin, wind slightly Bhullar shot an opening five- on the circuit in the coming years. PICTURE: QASSIM day at three under par 69. off the left. I was going to say under-par 67 yesterday to share “We guys have graduated from RAHMATULLAH Spain’s Sergio Garcia, who 5-iron but it was a 5-wood. (I) hit eighth place on his tournament the Asian Tour, although Jeev has finished third in Abu Dhabi last a great shot obviously straight at debut at the $2.5m Commercial been playing on The European week, had a mixed day, ending it,” Webster said. Bank Qatar Masters at Doha Tour for many, many years. It with one under par 71. “Because I carry a big crowd Golf Club. feels really nice to have us all here Defending champion Chris following me, there were about Compatriot Shiv Kapur later and that more and more Indians Wood had a forgetful day with two people behind the green and carded a bogey-free 68 to lie in are moving on to the next level. one over par 73 after carding six one of them started jumping up a share of 14th along with Thai That’s how the Indian golf com- bogeys. and pointing down. Thought, legend Thongchai Jaidee, who is munity is going to grow,” said The day, however, belonged to don’t know whether it’s gone over making his 12th appearance at the Bhullar, who retains a card on Coetzee who started on the 548- the back to the rocks, get up there Commercial Bank Qatar Masters, the Asian Tour. yard hole 10. The only stutter for and he starts clapping. Dream the second leg of The European “I’m going to give 100 per cent the South African was on the par start,” Webster explained. Tour’s three-part ‘Desert Swing’. on The European Tour this sea- 3 fourth hole which he bogeyed. “I played great after that and form after his horror show in Abu that he would be seeking a clean India’s Jeev Milkha Singh, who son, but obviously compete in all Coetzee said solid putting made was just really consistent, gave Dhabi last week where he started card today. “You know, just try won the last of his four European the big tournaments and hope- his day. myself a lot of putts and gave well but dropped off at the end. and birdie every hole like I did Tour titles in 2012, opened with a fully win one of the co-sanctions “Quite lucky to get away with myself a lot of chances. I was “My game didn’t feel too bad so today,” he said when asked about 71 that included three birdies and this year.” the shots I hit today, but another probably a little disappointed with (was) playing well today. I am not his strategy ahead of today’s sec- two bogeys. Kapur, who is back on The good putting display to put a nice 7-under to be honest. I should too surprised,” Van der Walt said. ond round. “I played solid and Local teenager Ali Al Bishi European Tour after winning number. But a long way to go so have finished probably nine or “Certainly I had a terrible week I forgot about last week so just began his bid to become the first back his card on last year’s we’ll see,” Coetzee said. ten, but it’s a good start.” and looked like a blind squirrel. I want to keep the same mind-set Qatari to make the cut in the Challenge Tour, teed off on 10 and “There’s a lot of luck involved in South Africa’s Van der Walt couldn’t do anything right,” the and do the same things,” he added. Commercial Bank Qatar Masters opened with a birdie. He added this game, especially the way I’ve was delighted to embrace good South African said who added THE PENINSULA with a one-over 73, while 19-year- three more at 13, 15 and 16 before old compatriot Saleh Al Kaabi shooting 11 successive pars. ended with a 78. “I’m happy with that, given the Bhullar, who finished 10th conditions. There was a score to in Abu Dhabi last week, was be had as it was quite mild, as delighted with his first round, usually it can get quite windy. which he played with Spanish But the greens were getting a bit legend Jose Maria Olazabal and bumpy because of all the traffic, England’s James Morrison. so it’s tough to hole putts late in LEFT: Qatar’s Ali Al Bishi The big-hitting 25-year-old the day,” said Kapur, who spent swings on day one of the teed off on 10 and started with seven years on The European $2.5m Qatar Masters at three straight birdies before add- Tour before losing his card after DGC yesterday. BELOW: ing two more on 16 and 17. On the the 2012 season. South Africa’s Ernie Els front nine, he bogeyed the second, “Any time you shoot a bogey- watches the ball after but made up for it with a birdie free round around here, you have India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar teeing off on hole 6. on five. to be pretty pleased because this tees off on hole 10 at Although Bhullar is playing is the kind of course that can in the Commercial Bank Qatar come and bite you at any time.” Doha Golf Course (DGC) Masters for the first time, he has Al Bishi, 19, gave himself a yesterday. blossomed on the Championship fighting chance of becoming the Course in his previous appearance first Qatari to make the cut with at Doha Golf Club, when only a a one-over opening round. Two teenager. years ago, the then 17-year-old “This is my first time playing shot rounds of 84 and 81 on his this tournament, but I played this tournament debut, but is now big- course back in 2006 for the Asian ger, better and wiser. Games and all I remember is that “I’m quite happy. Actually I we guys (India) won the silver could have played better, but medal so obviously Doha is really I missed on a couple of holes. I close to my heart,” said Bhullar, think 73 is very close for the cut, who now has a full card on The so I will do my best tomorrow,” European Tour after developing said Al Bishi, who qualified for his career on the Asian Tour, the tournament by finishing with LEFT: Spain’s Miguel where he won five times. Al Kaabi as the top two Qataris Angel Jimenez walks near “I played well today. I got off to in this month’s Qatar Open the media centre at DGC a really good start and was three- Amateur Championship. “It’s a following the first round of under after three holes. I think big improvement on the last time Qatar Masters. the conditions we got were ideal, I played. I’ve been practising a lot so I’m really looking forward to and playing many tournaments, the rest of the tournament.” so I’m happy overall. I don’t Bhullar is proud to be one of mind the changes they’ve made three Indians in the field along to the course to make it harder, with Kapur and Singh, a European as I think I can finish under par.” Tour veteran, and believes more THE PENINSULA THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2014 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 27

FICA urges Ulissi sprints to others to block proposal favouring ‘big victory in Stage 2 three’

Italian edges Gerrans to win in Adelaide LONDON: The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) urged Test ADELAIDE, Australia: position to claim his second stage playing nations yesterday to Italy’s Diego Ulissi edged out Tour Down Under win in a row. reject the controversial propos- Australian Simon Gerrans in a Stage 2 Results Evans’ BMC Racing team als that would effectively place powerful final sprint to win the also brought the former Tour de Australia, England and India in ADELAIDE, Australia: Results after the second stage of the Tour Down 150-kilometre (93-mile) second stage of the France winner to the front, but charge of the world game. Under in southern Australia Tour Down Under from Prospect to Stirling both Australians were caught on A working group of the yesterday. in South Australia yesterday. the hop when Ulissi launched his International Cricket Council’s Ulissi, 24, attacked from 100 1. Diego Ulissi (ITA/Lampre-Merida) 3hr attack. (ICC) Finance and Commercial metres out on a long, uphill fin- 52min 14 sec “Hats off to Ulissi, he timed Affairs committee has come up ish and went clear of the chasing 2. Simon Gerrans (AUS/Orica GreenEdge) that sprint just perfectly,” with the proposal recommending pack, finishing three bike lengths same time Gerrans said. international calendar and rev- ahead of Gerrans and Australia’s “He got the jump on us there enue share be controlled by the 3. Cadel Evans (AUS/BMC Racing) s.t. Cadel Evans. with a hundred metres to go and three boards who bring the most 4. Francesco Gavazzi (ITA/Astana) s.t. “It was great to win here, I was we couldn’t catch him. income to the game. very motivated because this is my 5. Robert Gesink (BEL/Belkin) s.t. “I was definitely satisfied get- Cricket boards of South Africa kind of finish,” Ulissi said through race, Australian pair Will ting time bonuses, it would have and Pakistan have objected to an interpreter. Clarke (Drapac) and Campbell been nice to get another stage win the restructuring proposal, while Gerrans retained the ochre Flakemore (UniSA) broke away today, but you can’t win them all.” FICA said it was “extremely con- overall leader’s jersey and is now alongside Dutchman Boy Van A disappointed Evans conceded cerned about the future of inter- seven seconds clear of Ulissi on Poppel (Trek Factory Racing). he had got his timing wrong. national cricket”. general classification, with the However, the trio never got “Yesterday I went too late and “This proposal is designed to Italian moving to second thanks more than three minutes clear got closed in and today I went too vest control of the game in the to the stage win. and it was inevitable the peloton early and got swamped at the fin- three Boards of India, Australia Germany’s Andre Greipel is would catch them, which it did at ish -- maybe I’ll get it right in the and England,” FICA executive in third place, 11 seconds behind the start of the last lap around next few days,” he said. chairman Paul Marsh said in a Gerrans. Stirling. Greipel was the only sprinter statement. Today’s 150-kilometre (93-mile) Attacks came thick and fast to survive when the peloton splin- South Africa’s Lizelle Lee, winner of the Player of the Match award at “The game deserves far better stage began in the Adelaide sub- on the final lap, with first the tered on the final climb, finishing the Twenty20 tri-series match against Ireland, poses for a picture at the than this and all within FICA call urb of Prospect in cool, overcast Tinkoff-Saxo team and then in 19th at the tail end of the lead- West End Park International cricket Stadium here yesterday. South Africa on the other seven ICC Board conditions and took the cyclists Team Sky trying to break the ing group. won nine wickets. In the second match, South Africa defeated Pakistan members to reject this proposal on a testing course through the peloton up. However, officials later awarded by seven wickets. at next week’s board meeting. Adelaide Hills, finishing with But every move was coun- most of the peloton the same time The future of the game depends three 21-kilometre laps around tered by Gerrans’ strong Orica as the leaders due to a crash on them doing so,” he said. the town of Stirling. GreenEdge team and it looked as within three kilometres of the The proposal will be put to the Four kilometres into the though the Australian was in pole finish. AFP ICC Executive Board at its quar- Lee, du Preez terly two-day meeting in Dubai and would need votes from seven of the 10 member countries to be Qatar Volleyball Association League Anelka asks passed. Meanwhile, England will star in SA wins be battling to avoid another series whitewash in the fourth one-day FA to drop game against Australia tomor- DOHA: South Africa women Trisha Chetty early, South Africa row, and are rallying round their ‘quenelle’ reiterated their dominance made confident progress, with beleaguered captain. Twenty20 tri-series by complet- Mignon du Preez and Lizelle Lee Australia triumphed by seven ing comfortable wins against adding 60 for the second wicket. wickets with 10 overs to spare in salute charge Pakistan and Ireland. Lee scored a patiend 30, but du the third one-dayer in Sydney on In a dress-rehearsal of tomor- Preez maintained brisk pace, Sunday to sweep the series 3-0, LONDON: Nicolas Anelka, row’s final, South Africa defeated scoring 38 in 34 balls with the with Alastair Cook admitting for West Bromwich Albion’s Pakistan by seven wickets. help of four boundaries. the first time he will reconsider French striker at the centre In the other match of the Both batsmen were dismissed, his captaincy after the weekend’s of the ‘quenelle salute’ storm, day, South Africa coasted to an but Marizanne Kapp ensured final 50-overs match in Adelaide. yesterday urged the Football emphatic nine-wicket win over there were no further hiccups as But England spinner James Association to drop anti-Semitic Ireland. South Africa strolled to the target Tredwell says the team that also charges against him. Choosing to bowl on winning in the last over. lost the Ashes 5-0 still has some The 34-year-old forward per- the toss for the second time on “It’s been a long day, but very fight left in it and supports Cook. formed the controversial gesture, the day, South Africa made early rewarding for our team,” Mignon “We’ve spoken a lot about push- putting one arm across his chest inroads into the Pakistan batting du Preez said. ing back and giving them a bit of and straightening the other, in line-up. Moseline Daniels struck “I’m so proud of the profes- their medicine,” Tredwell said. last month’s 3-3 draw at West in the first over to remove opener sionalism that the team displayed “We’re trying to be really hon- Al Rayyan player hits a smash against Al Ahli during the Qatar Volleyball Ham. Marina Iqbal and Pakistan’s boat today. Everyone put their hand est with ourselves. We understand Association League match at Al Arabi Indoor Stadium in Doha yester- Anelka faces a lengthy ban was further rocked as they lost up, whether they were playing or that we’ve not been good enough day. Al Rayyan won three sets by one (25-16, 25-16, 20-25 and 25-16). after the FA on Tuesday said their Player of the Match in their not and everyone contributed to on this tour. PICTURES BY: KAMMUTTY VP he had made a gesture that was previous outing, Nain Abidi, in the success of the day. “It’s now looking forward to “abusive and/or indecent and/or the second over. Earlier, Lizelle Lee’s second how we improve that and look insulting and/or improper” and Nida Dar hit the only six of the consecutive fifty helped South forward to the upcoming games, included “a reference to ethnic match, but she could only add 17 Africa storm to a nine-wicket not only in this series, but the rest origin and/or race and/or religion before being dismissed. 18-year- win over Ireland. Chasing 102, Lee of this year going in towards the or belief”. old legspinner Sune Luus then smashed 53 off 52 balls to help World Cup next year.” Anelka has until 1800 GMT tightened South Africa’s grip with South Africa finish the game with Tredwell said England needed today to respond to the charge a couple of strikes in a stifling more than five overs to spare. The to be strong and turn things and if found guilty he faces a spell. Pakistan’s only resistance win confirmed South Africa and around. “No-one likes losing. The minimum five-game suspension, came through Nahida Khan, who Pakistan as the finalists of the Aussies have shown that. They’ve under new anti-discrimination scored 33, and that lifted them to competition. spoken about how the pain can measures introduced by the FA their eventual score of 96. A combined bowling perform- drive you. We’ll certainly be try- in May last year. But the total didn’t challenge ance kept Ireland to a below-par ing to use that to our advantage.” AFP South Africa. Despite losing score. THE PENINSULA AGENCIES

‘United Through Golf’ at Doha Golf Club during Qatar Masters

Action from the Al Arabi and Al Shamal match. Al Arabi won 3-0 (25-19, 25-13 and 25-20). Jeptoo faces tough challenge in London

LONDON: Kenyan Priscah are delighted to welcome back Jeptoo will face a strong chal- Priscah Jeptoo. lenge for her London Marathon “Our champion was a deserved crown as the Olympic champion, winner of the World Marathon the world champion and one of Majors title and has shown the greatest distance runners of with her performances over the all time line up against her on last two years that she will be April 13. extremely difficult to beat.” Olympic champion Tiki Gelana Jeptoo, who won an Olympic of Ethiopia, world champion Edna silver in London in 2012, produced Kiplagat of Kenya and double the world’s second fastest time 10,000m Olympic champion last year to win in 2:20.15 and she Tirunesh Dibaba of Ethiopia are will need to reproduce that kind the front runners in a field that of form against an elite field that includes eight athletes who have also includes three athletes who run under 2 hours 25 minutes. have run quicker than 2 hours 20 Doha College students pose for a group photograph with teachers and Andy McCormick after attending a fun session part of new community The world record stands at minutes. Jeptoo followed up her programme ‘United Through Golf’ at Doha Golf Club (DGC) yesterday. More than 70 Doha College students featured in various fun activities at the 2:15:25 and was set by Britain’s London win with victory in the Qafco-backed Family Zone at DGC. The “United Through Golf” workshop, headed by McCormick, taught children core values such as respect, hon- Paula Radcliffe in London 11 New York Marathon in November esty and commitment while playing golf. On Friday and Saturday, there will be fun competitions for families with special “United through Golf” gift years ago. London Marathon race when she clinched the World for every participant assured, McCormick said. There will be the 9-hole “United Through Golf” mini course, where kids will go into the draw to win a director Hugh Brasher, announc- Marathon Majors title and a Roots 18 ShortGolf golf programme for their school. More schoolchildren are expected to visit the Family Zone today. ing the field yesterday, said: “We $500,000 pay cheque. REUTERS0 Thursday 23 January 2014 22 Rabial I 1435 Volume 18 Number 5953 Sport Price: QR2

Oklahoma City Manchester beat Portland City reach FA Trail Blazers Cup final

Sport | 23 Sport | 25

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Furious Federer downs Murray, to Kenyans threaten clash with Nadal in semis to defect Nadal rides his luck against Dimitrov; Radwanska upsets Azarenka over taxes

MELBOURNE: Roger reached only one grand slam NAIROBI: Top Kenyan ath- Federer’s revival gathered pace semi-final since claiming a 17th Australian Open letes may consider defecting as he edged Andy Murray in a major title by beating Murray in to other countries if the east late-night dog fight to set up a the 2012 Wimbledon final, told Results African nation goes ahead blockbuster Australian Open reporters of tomorrow’s next with plans to tax athletes’ Men Quarter-finals semi-final with world No.1 Rafa installment of his Nadal rivalry. earnings, they said yesterday. Nadal who earlier yesterday had “It’s going to be brutal and all Rafael Nadal (ESP x1) bt Grigor Dimitrov (BUL Speaking to reporters in the rode his luck to beat Bulgarian those things. Looking forward to x22) 3-6, 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (9/7), 6-2; Roger North Rift Valley athletics hub Grigor Dimitrov. slugging it out with him in a cou- Federer (SUI x6) bt Andy Murray (GBR x4) Eldoret, Wesley Korir, who won Swiss Federer played sublime ple of days.” 6-3, 6-4, 6-7 (6/8), 6-3. the Boston City Marathon in tennis to open a two-set lead over A free-flowing Federer had Women Quarter-finals 2012, and is now a legislator, Murray but had to withstand a looked in total command against Dominika Cibulkova (SVK x20) bt Simona led a group of athletes who are late charge from Briton before Murray until late in the third set Halep (ROU x11) 6-3, 6-0; Agnieszka furious with the Kenya Revenue claiming a 6-3, 6-4, 6-7(6), 6-3 when he served for the match at Radwanska (POL x5) bt Victoria Azarenka Authority’s (KRA) plan. win in the first “Big Four” clash 5-4, having just broken the fourth (BLR x2) 6-1, 5-7, 6-0. “If this matter goes on like of the year. seed’s serve. Women’s doubles Semi-finals this, I will defect to another Nadal had dug himself out of Murray broke back and forced Sara Errani/Roberta Vinci (ITA x1) bt Kveta country which will appreciate a hole to suppress an inspired a tiebreak and then hung in dog- Peschke (CZE)/Katarina Srebotnik (SLO x4) my effort,” said twice Berlin Dimitrov, winning 3-6, 7-6(3), gedly to overturn a 4-6 deficit and 6-1, 6-4; Ekaterina Makarova/Elena Vesnina Marathon winner Florence 7-6(7), 6-2 after his opponent force a fourth set. (RUS x3) bt Raquel Kops-Jones/Abigail Kiplagat. had squandered a golden chance Federer shrugged off missing Spears (USA x8) 7-5, 3-6, 6-3. KRA said in a statement that to win the third set. his chance, however, keeping his athletes should pay taxes like Victoria Azarenka could only cool through an hour-long fourth other taxpayers. blame herself after she was ear- set to outlast a tiring Murray and Semi-final line-ups “We are taxed abroad. lier shown the door 6-1, 5-7, 6-0 avenge his defeat in the semi- Men: Playing today Then we invest our remain- by Agnieszka Radwanska to leave finals here last year. Tomas Berdych (CZE x7) vs Stanislas ing earnings here although the tournament without a defend- “I’ve been in these positions Wawrinka (SUI x8) the Government does nothing ing champion in the last four of before,” Federer, who has reached Playing Tomorrow to support us. We work hard either draw for the first time in the semi-final for an 11th straight Rafael Nadal (ESP x1) vs Roger Federer (SUI x6) to give this nation a positive the professional era. year at Melbourne Park, said. image abroad yet we get noth- Women: Playing today After ending Azarenka’s “For me it was just a matter of ing in return. I can chose to Switzerland’s Roger Federer celebrates his victory in the men’s singles Li Na (CHN x4) vs Eugenie Bouchard (CAN x30) hopes of a third straight title, staying calm and forgetting about match against Britain’s Andy Murray on day ten of the 2014 Australian change my nationality now,” Dominika Cibulkova (SVK x20) vs Agnieszka Radwanska will face Slovakia’s it a little bit. Open tennis tournament in Melbourne, yesterday. said Kiplagat. Dominika Cibulkova, who “The match was great until Radwanska (POL x5) “We would rather invest in crushed Simona Halep 6-3, 6-0, that point when I couldn’t get it other countries that appreci- to decide who meets China’s Li done really.” Thirteen-times Grand Slam to take the first set. Struggling a volley. “I got lucky,” said Nadal. ate our effort than in a coun- Na or Canadian teenager Genie Having lost three finals, champion Nadal’s match with to maintain his control over his “(But) if that ball, that fore- try where our earnings from Bouchard in the final. Murray has endured plenty of Dimitrov turned on the third set racket at times because of a pain- hand from him, goes in and he win our sweat is taxed,” the former With Tomas Berdych meet- heartache in Melbourne but the tiebreak and there was enough ful blister, Nadal almost inevitably the third, I going to keep fighting, Boston Marathon champion ing Novak Djokovic’s conquerer Wimbledon champion was philo- entertainment in those 16 points battled back to even up the match because I felt that I was ready for said. Korir noted that major- Stan Wawrinka in the first men’s sophical in defeat given his recent alone to justify the ticket prices. but Dimitrov was not finished. the fight. ity of the athletes are civil serv- semi-final today, the winner of return to action after back sur- Dimitrov, desperate to shed The 22-year-old had three “I will keep fighting until the ants and have invested heavily the Nadal-Federer clash will like gery curtailed his 2013. the “Baby-Fed” tag he acquired chances to go two sets to one up end.” in real estate and other busi- their chances of adding another “I’ve come a long way in four because of his stylish game and but shanked a return to blow Radwanska went for broke to nesses, which attract taxation, Grand Slam title to their consid- months,” he said. “Obviously right step out of the shadow of girl- one at 6-5 on Nadal’s serve, blew snap Azarenka’s 18-match win- saying a further taxation would erable hauls. now I’m very disappointed. friend Maria Sharapova, had another in the tiebreak when he ning streak at Melbourne Park be double blow for the devel- “It’s going to be a good match,” “Wasn’t too far away in the produced some brilliant tennis in went long with a forehand and a with a thoroughly deserved vic- opment of athletes. The MP 32-year-old Federer, who had end.” his first grand slam quarter-final third when the Spaniard cut off tory. REUTERS stated that the oil-rich coun- tries pay handsomely for gold medals won in competitions yet Kenya’s tax collector wants to find ways of making money from the athletes’ earnings. “Some countries pay her gold Loss to New Zealand robs medallists 100m Kenyan shil- lings ($1.17m) while this coun- try is trying to devise ways of fleecing the athletes of their India of top ODI ranking hard-earned money,” a furious Korir said. He said that, con- trary to common belief, they HAMILTON, New Zealand: their Duckworth-Lewis adjusted A two-hour rain break dur- earn huge sums of money but India surrendered their world target of 297 when further rain ing the New Zealand innings and pocket only 15 per cent of their number one ODI ranking yes- ended the game with three balls big hitting by all-rounder Corey winnings. terday when they suffered a remaining. Anderson conspired to give India “The breakdown for taxation second successive defeat to New India’s second loss to the eighth a daunting target which they and deductions is as follows: 30 Zealand in a rain-abbreviated ranked New Zealand saw them threatened to reach until the loss to 35 per cent for the country of game in Hamilton. slip behind Australia on the world of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. origin, 15 per cent for the agent, India were 20 runs short of rankings. When the skipper went for 56 10 per cent for the manager, in the 40th over India were 257-6 and now the KRA wants to add Scoreboard and their tailend batsmen were salt to injury by slapping a 30 unable to maintain the required per cent tax of that amount,” NEW ZEALAND R Sharma c Ronchi b Southee ...... 20 run rate. he said. “That is exploiting us.” M Guptill c Shami b Raina ...... 44 V Kohli c (sub) b Southee ...... 78 New Zealand, sent into bat first, KRA spokesperson Maureen J Ryder C Dhoni b Shami ...... 20 A Rahane c Ronchi b McClenaghan ...... 36 made 271-7 after rain reduced Njongo said they would ensure K Williamson st Dhoni b Jadeja ...... 77 M Dhoni c Williamson b Anderson ...... 56 their innings to 42 overs. athletes do not pay the same R Taylor c Dhoni b Shami ...... 57 S Raina c Southee b Mills ...... 35 Anderson was the central fig- taxes in two countries. C Anderson c Dhawan b Sharma ...... 44 R Jadeja b Anderson ...... 12 ure in a 101-run slog in the 8.4 “Sportsmen should furnish B McCullum c&b Shami ...... 0 R Ashwin c Guptill b Southee ...... 5 overs after the rain break which, us with details of their taxa- L Ronchi (not out) ...... 18 B Kumar c N McCullum b Anderson ...... 11 under the Duckworth-Lewis tion abroad to be factored in N McCullum b Kumar ...... 1 M Shami (not out) ...... 1 system, saw India’s target scaled our records,” said Njongo. K Mills (not out)...... 2 I Sharma (not out) ...... 1 upwards to 297. Twice world 1,500m cham- Extras (LB-1, W-7) ...... 8 Extras (LB-3, W-7) ...... 10 They made a rocky start to pion Asbel Kiprop said the Total (for 7 wkts in 42 overs) ...... 271 Total (for 9 wkts in 41.3 overs) ...... 277 their reply when Tim Southee taxation plan would spell doom Fall of wickets: 1-25, 2-114, 3-174, 4-248, Fall of wickets: 1-22, 2-37, 3-127, 4-164, removed Shikhar Dhawan (12) for the already impoverished 5-250, 6-251, 7-252. 5-226, 6-257, 7-259, 8-265, 9-275. and followed with the dismissal athletes. Bowling: Kumar 7-1-43-1, Shami 7-0-55-3 Bowling: Mills 9-1-50-1, McClenaghan 8-1- of Rohit Sharma (20) to claim his “Athletes live in debt and pay (2w), Sharma 6-0-46-1 (4w), Jadeja 8-0-46-1, 45-1 (1w), Southee 9-0-72-4 (1w), N McCullum 100th ODI wicket. so many bills to those who make Kohli 2-0-12-0, Ashwin 8-0-50-0 (1w), Raina 8-0-40-0 (3w), Anderson 7.3-0-67-3 (2w). When Mitch McClenagham them run, including air ticket 4-0-18-1. Result: New Zealand won by 15 runs (D/L removed Ajinkya Rahane for 36 refunds that if the taxation plan INDIA method). to have India 127-3 they needed a Kane Williamson from New Zealand bats during the second One-Day is implemented, it will kill the AFP S Dhawan b Southee ...... 12 Series: New Zealand lead 5 match series 2-0. further 170 off 18.2 overs. International match against India at Seddon Park in Hamilton, yesterday. sport,” he said. AFP