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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 MUHARRAM 7, 1439 AH www.kuwaittimes.net Qatar laborer Mud, misery Concert-goers England drop ‘sacked’ after for refugees arrested for all-rounder speaking to as Bangladesh raising rainbow Stokes after UN team6 tent11 city grows flag32 in Egypt assault14 arrest Kuwait shaves KD 1 Min 25º Max 44º High Tide billion off spending 03:07 & 17:01 Low Tide Economic reforms proving effective • KIA sees 34% growth in 5 years 10:25 & 22:14 32 PAGES NO: 17340 150 FILS

By Nawara Fattahova and Faten Omar ing Liquidity Coverage Ratio and Net Stable Funding Ratio. He added that the CBK improved, with banks’ non- KUWAIT: Kuwait’s financial leadership heralded a positive performing loan ratio steadily declining to reach 2.2%, a outlook for the country’s slow growing economy, point- historic low. Also ensured the justified buildup of suffi- ing to a significant reduction in government spending cient provisions; consequently, coverage ratio has and growth in assets under management as key achieve- climbed to a record high of 237%. ments. Kuwait shaved off “more than KD 1 billion in gov- The Central Bank government also called for further ernment expenditure between 2016 and 2017,” said Anas reform: “Progress on many structural fronts is needed; Al-Saleh, Deputy Premier and Finance Minister during the further rationalizing expenditures, increasing non-oil annual Euromoney conference in Kuwait City. revenues, reforming the labor market, increasing the “To reach this result the public financial bodies imple- role of the private sector and in general diversifying the mented measures including adjusting cap and growth economy are some key areas that would continue to rate of public spending and treating the waste in this require unremitting attention.” spending, accelerating the process of collecting late state debts, shifting from the annual budget system to the Investment legislation medium-term budget system, limiting the violations of Kuwait’s parliament is likely to approve a law to the social allowances, and other measures,” he explained. extend the country’s borrowing limits, enabling 30-year debt issues, a senior finance ministry official said yester- Income growing, projects on track day. The law would allow Kuwait to increase its debt ceil- Kuwait sets one of the lowest price per barrel break ing to KD 25 billion ($83 billion) from 10 billion currently. evens in the region. Its 2017/2018 budget includes a $45 It would also allow the Gulf state to issue debt instru- per barrel break even for oil revenue. But forecasts KUWAIT: Anas Al-Saleh, Deputy Premier and Finance KUWAIT: Mohammad Y Al-Hashel, Governor of the ments with maturities of up to 30 years, from a current expect Kuwait crude to earn an average $52.50, accord- Minister speaks during the annual Euromoney confer- Central Bank of Kuwait speaks during the annual limit of 10 years. ing to Fitch Ratings. This will bolster the state’s finances ence in Kuwait City. — Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat Euromoney conference yesterday. “We’re optimistic that the parliament will pass the law and could reduce a projected deficit of KD 7.9 billion as it is, it’s a matter of getting it through the process,” (this includes transfers to the Future Generations Fund, Abdulaziz Al-Mulla, head of the debt management part of the country’s sovereign wealth fund). SEE PAGES 17 AND 18 department at the ministry of finance, said during a Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA) also grew its assets Euromoney conference. Kuwait issued a debut $8 billion by more than 34 percent over the last five years, noted is the first phase of the North Zour Refinery Project,” said Dr Mohammad Y Al-Hashel, Governor of the Central international bond in March with maturities of five and 10 the Finance Minister during the Euromoney conference Al-Saleh. “We are now preparing the tenders for three Bank of Kuwait, noted the soundness of Kuwait’s bank- years. The government decided to extend its borrowing yesterday. According to Al-Saleh the state’s reserves and other partnering projects including the Kabd station for ing sector during the conference, pointing to a slate of limit to 30 years after noting interest from pension and assets managed by the KIA are stable. “This is considered solid waste, the sewage network project at Um Al- reforms intended to protect local banks against global insurance funds for long-term paper when the bond sale the safety vale to our national economy during any crisis Haiman, and the public schools development project,” economic uncertainty. “We have enhanced our capital was presented to international investors, said Al-Mulla. and for the future generations, in addition to enhancing he noted. adequacy regime by setting out higher and better quali- “We believe time is a very important aspect, as we state’s high creditworthiness,” he said. ty capital. As highlighted in our flagship Financial need to finance this fiscal year, from the beginning of The minister did not divulge the exact size of KIA’s Stable, strong banks Stability Report for 2016, CAR of the banking industry April to the end of March 2018, and as we all know there assets under management. The Sovereign Wealth Fund At the same time, reforms of the investment sector stands at 18.6%, well above the Basel benchmark. We are windows in the market,” he added, without specify- Institute ranks KIA as the world’s fourth-biggest sover- are also tracking gains. “The daily average of stock trad- have also put up additional capital requirements, up to ing when a new bond issue is likely. Kuwait is also work- eign fund, managing $524 billion. Increased govern- ing value at the Kuwait Boursa hiked by 139 percent dur- 2%, for our systemically important banks,” Al-Hashel said. ing on a law that would allow the sovereign to issue ment spending on megaprojects under the New Kuwait ing the first eight months of 2017 compared to the same Kuwaiti banks stand at 10.1%, substantially higher sukuk, said Al-Mulla, adding he did not know when such 2035 reform program is also expected to bolster the period last year,” the Finance Minister noted, adding that than the 3% global benchmark where the CBK strength- a law would be in place. The current legal framework local economy. “Two weeks ago an initial public offering the growth indicated increased confidence and trust by ened banks’ capacity to withstand liquidity stress and to does not allow the government to raise financing (IPO) of the first partnering project was launched, which local and international investors in Kuwait’s economy. make their funding structure more stable by implement- through Islamic bonds. Saudi to allow women to drive in historic decision US hails Saudi U-turn on women drivers

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia will allow women sharia law, have justified the ban over the to drive from next June, state media said years, including one who claimed that UAE tackles forced yesterday, in a historic decision that driving harmed women’s ovaries. Many makes the Gulf kingdom the last country women’s rights activists were jailed over labor, harassment in the world to permit women behind the years for defiantly flouting the ban. DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates, criticized globally the wheel. The longstanding driving ban The shock announcement was met in for its treatment of migrant workers, issued a law yes- was seen globally as a symbol of repres- Riyadh with a mix of euphoria and disbe- terday to combat abuse of domestic staff, state news sion of women in the ultra-conservative lief. “I am very excited and shocked at the KUWAIT: Security officers inspect the scene of the accident that left three people agency WAM said. It includes prohibitions on sexual kingdom and comes after a years-long same time... I expected this to happen 10 dead and three others injured. harassment, forced labor, and the employment of resistance from female activists. The deci- or 20 years later,” Haya Al-Rikayan, a 30- domestic workers under 18. sion, which risks riling religious conserva- year-old bank employee in Riyadh said. It also stipulates that workers are entitled to one tives, is part of powerful Crown Prince The announcement follows a dazzling Three perish in fatal accident paid day off each week, 30 days of paid vacation per Mohammed Bin Salman’s reform drive gender-mixed celebration of Saudi year and up to 30 days of sick leave. President Sheikh aimed at adapting to a post-oil era and national day at the weekend, the first of By Meshaal Al-Enezi ing one man who was identified as the son Khalifa Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan approved the law, which improving its battered global reputation its kind, which aimed to spotlight the of senior Interior Ministry official and two was praised by human rights organizations when its due to its harsh human rights record. kingdom’s reform push, analysts say, Egyptian workers, while three others were KUWAIT: First Lieutenant Ahmad Al- draft was passed by the country’s legislative body in “The royal decree will implement the despite a backlash from religious conser- rushed to the nearest hospital for treat- Dousari, son of Interior Ministry’s May. The UAE relies heavily on migrant labor with an provisions of traffic regulations, includ- vatives. Men and women danced in the ment of injuries sustained during the Undersecretary Lieutenant General estimated 8 million workers making up more than 80 ing the issuance of driving licenses for streets to drums and thumping electron- crash. According to eyewitnesses, the acci- percent of its population, according to the Mahmoud Al-Dousari died in an accident men and women alike,” the Saudi Press ic music, in scenes that are a stunning dent happened when a vehicle crashed International Labor Organization. that left two more people dead and three Agency said. It added that the decree anomaly in a country known for its tight into a group of cars and road construction Many domestic workers come from southeast Asia. others injured. Firefighters, paramedics would be implemented from June 2018. gender segregation and an austere laborers. One of the vehicles burst in The Gulf Arab state has in the past been sharply criti- and police rushed to scene at Riyadh Conservative clerics in Saudi Arabia, an vision of Islam. flames due to the impact. An investigation cized by groups such as Amnesty International and Road, in front of Faiha where an accident absolute monarchy ruled according to Continued on Page 11 was reported at dawn yesterday. has been launched to determine the cir- Human Rights Watch for allowing Three people were found dead; includ- cumstances behind the accident. Continued on Page 11 Erdogan threatens Kurds

ARBIL: The Iraqi government ruled out talks squares as convoys of cars drove around nomic and military retaliation. Kurdistan on possible secession for Kurdish-held north- honking their horns. In ethnically mixed Regional Government (KRG) President ern Iraq yesterday and Turkey threatened Kirkuk, where Arabs and Turkmen opposed Masoud Barzani says the vote is not binding, sanctions after a referendum in the region the vote, authorities lifted an overnight cur- but meant to provide a mandate for negotia- showed strong support for independence. few imposed to maintain control. tions with Baghdad and neighboring coun- Initial results of Monday’s vote indicated 72 In neighboring Iran, which has a large tries over the peaceful secession of the region percent of eligible voters had taken part and Kurdish minority, thousands of Kurds from Iraq. an overwhelming majority, possibly over 90 marched in the streets to show their support But Iraq’s opposition to Kurdish independ- percent, had said “yes”, Kurdish TV channel for the referendum, defying a show of ence did not waver. “We are not ready to dis- Rudaw said. Final results are expected today. strength by Tehran which flew fighter jets cuss or have a dialogue about the results of Celebrations continued yesterday in Arbil, over their areas. The referendum has fuelled the referendum because it is unconstitution- capital of the Kurdish region, which was lit by fears of a new regional conflict. Turkey, which al,” Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Al-Abadi said in fireworks and adorned with Kurdish red- has fought a Kurdish insurgency within its a speech on Monday night. RIYADH: File photo shows a fully veiled woman driving in Riyadh ahead of a then- white-green flags. People danced in the borders for decades, reiterated threats of eco- Continued on Page 11 planned nationwide day of defiance of the ban on women driving. — AFP LOCAL WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017

KUWAIT: His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Sabah meets with Dr Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Duaij Al-Sabah. — KUNA photos meets with Director of the Directorate General for Civil Aviation Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem Al-Humoud Al-Sabah. Crown Prince receives ruling His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Amir arrives in family council member, officials Kuwait today KUWAIT: His Highness the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received at Seif Palace yesterday Dr Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Duaij Al-Sabah, Deputy head of the ruling family council. His KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Kuwait in sponsoring peace con- Highness Sheikh Nawaf also received Director of Kuwait’s Directorate Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber sultations among the Yemeni General for Civil Aviation (DGCA) Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem Al- Al-Sabah will leave the United parties, particularly since the Humoud Al-Sabah, Governor of the Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) Dr States of America, arriving in State of Kuwait hosted those Mohammad Al-Hashel, head of the central agency for illegal residents Kuwait today after concluding a consultations for about three Saleh Al-Fadhla, President of the Kuwait Anti-Corruption Authority visit to Washington, DC where he months. The State of Kuwait, (NAZAHA) Abdulrahman Al-Nemash, and the authority’s deputy head met with US President Donald with the support and backing of Riyad Al-Hajeri. — KUNA Trump. Meanwhile, His Highness the international community; the Amir sent a cable of congrat- shall contribute to work, in order ulations yesterday to UN to achieve peace and stability in Secretary General Antonio the region, and to contribute sig- Guterres. The cable as follows: nificantly in alleviating the “It pleases me to congratu- human suffering of those affect- lates you on the success you ed by events in Syria, Iraq, and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah have achieved in opening the Yemen, thus affirming the firm meets with head of the central agency for illegal residents Saleh Al-Fadhla. works of the 72nd Session of the position of the State of Kuwait, United Nations General in supporting the United Assembly, and to express to Your Nations, and its role in achieving Excellency my appreciation of universal peace, and meeting Your Excellency’s efforts and requirements of sustainable those of the United Nations staff development for all states, pro- in the preparation and organiza- ceeding from its belief that the tion of this Session. I would also antithesis of peace is chaos, and like to take this opportunity to the antithesis of coexistence is express my sincerest thanks and conflicts, and dialogue is defi- appreciation for your pro- nitely better than conflict. nouncements in support of the Wishing Your Excellency and the Kuwaiti mediation efforts in the Staff of the organization good gulf crisis, working with various health, happiness, and contin- parties in order to reach a solu- ued success in your lofty tion to this crisis. In addition, I endeavor. Accept, Your would like to cite your support Excellency the assurances of my His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah of the efforts of the State of highest consideration.” — KUNA His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets with President of the Kuwait Anti-Corruption Authority Abdulrahman meets with Governor of the Central Bank of Kuwait Dr Mohammad Al-Hashel. Al-Nemash, and the authority’s deputy head Riyad Al-Hajeri. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 LOCAL

KUWAIT: Saudi Ambassador Dr Abdulaziz Al-Fayez (third from left), His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al- Saudi Ambassador Dr Abdulaziz Al-Fayez welcomes Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Khaled Sabah (center), Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah (third from right), and other officials Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah. cut the cake during a ceremony to celebrate Saudi Arabia’s national day. — Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat Kuwait boasts historical ties with Saudi Arabia Saudi diplomacy promotes security and peace: Ambassador

KUWAIT: Senior Kuwaiti officials took pride and provide an example for other countries in the exemplary relations between their to follow. “The achievements made by the country and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in all areas The two countries are bounded by history over the last 87 years are a source of pride and mandatory interaction in all fields and for all Arab countries,” he told reporters on at all levels, Speaker of the National this occasion. Assembly Marzouq Al-Ghanem told Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled noted that the reporters. He made the comments on the Kingdom’s vision 2030 constitutes a signifi- sidelines of a reception hosted by Saudi cant milestone in development taking Embassy in Kuwait Monday evening to cel- stock of the potentials of the Kingdom and ebrate the Kingdom’s 87th national day requirements of the time. He congratulated that falls on September 23. The celebration King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown also gathered Kuwait’s First Deputy Prime Prince Mohammad bin Salman bin Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Abdulaziz as well as the Saudi people on Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Minister of the national day, voicing his best wishes for State for Cabinet Affairs and Acting the Kingdom. Minister of Information Sheikh Mohammad Sheikh Mohammad Al-Abdullah said Al-Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, and the peoples of the Arabian Gulf states and Saudi Ambassador Dr Abdulaziz Al-Fayez the Muslim nation share the joy of this cel- as well as dozens of senior officials from ebration with the Saudi people. The love both countries. for the Kingdom testifies that these nations Ghanem said the deep-rooted relation- hold the Kingdom in high esteem, the act- ship between the two sisterly countries has ing minister of information said, wishing kept growing since their foundation based Saudi Arabia more prosperity and progress Speaker of the National Assembly Marzouq Al-Ghanem (second left), on mutual respect and supportive stances, under the wise leadership of King Salman Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs and Acting Minister of thanks to the wise leadership of His bin Abdulaziz. First Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al- Information Sheikh Mohammad Al-Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah participates in an ‘Ardha’ during the event. (second right) and other dignitaries attend the ceremony. Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and Saudi King Salman Active diplomacy bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The Kuwaiti top law- In the meantime, Ambassador Fayez maker quoted late king of Saudi Arabia reaffirmed the commitment of the Saudi Fahad bin Abdulaziz as saying in 1990 leaders to defend the fair issues of the Arab when Kuwait was invaded by Iraq: “Kuwait and Muslim nations, citing their active and Saudi Arabia must exist together or diplomacy to promote security and peace end together.” across the region and beyond. “The “The Kuwaiti people cherish this memo- Kingdom’s active diplomacy has recently ry and amicable relationship that are hand- culminated in the convention of the Arab- ed down from one generation to another,” Islamic-US summit in Riyadh in last May,” he he went on. Ghanem congratulated the noted. Saudi leaders and people on the national On the Kuwaiti-Saudi relations, he said day, voicing his best wishes to the they proved to be a good example for oth- Kingdom. er countries to follow thanks to the close contacts between Saudi King and His Test of time Highness the Amir of Kuwait. He congratu- Meanwhile, the First Deputy Prime lated King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman bin Al-Khaled said the relationship between Abdulaziz as well as the Saudi people on the two countries stood the test of time the national day. — KUNA

Officers pose with children during the event. Kuwait all for maintaining Iraq’s unity: Jarallah ‘State committed to cementing Gulf unity’

KUWAIT: Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled Al-Jarallah said Monday evening that Kuwait always supports the unity, security, sovereignty and independence of Iraq. Jarallah was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a reception hosted by Saudi Embassy to celebrate the Kingdom’s 87th national day that falls on September 23. “We hope that the referendum would neither breach Iraq’s constitution and unity, nor damage the relations between Baghdad and Irbil,” he said, commenting on the referendum on independence of Iraq’s Kurdistan region. “We also hope that the polls will not hamper the tremendous efforts being made by Iraqi to free its terri- tories from the grip of terrorists and the so- called Islamic State,” he noted. Jarallah affirmed that countries inside the region and beyond are working together to deescalate the tensions between Baghdad and Irbil in order to avoid any adverse KUWAIT: Deputy Foreign Minister impacts of the referendum. Khaled Al-Jarallah speaks to reporters during the event. — Photo by Yasser Al- Gulf unity Zayyat Meanwhile, Jarallah reiterated that Kuwait would continue its mediation in “Thanks to Kuwait’s credible diplomacy Gulf crisis with a view to restoring the unity and the eminent status of His Highness the of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- states. “We are confident that our brothers Sabah, the Kuwaiti mediation efforts in the GCC states and Egypt will be able to gained unprecedented support from overcome this regrettable row and turn around the globe,” he pointed out. Jarallah over a new leaf in order to be better able to urged the mass media in the GCC states to address the numerous challenges,” he said. tone down their rhetoric and adopt a more “We are optimistic about future of the Gulf balanced and credible approach in order to unity and early solution of this crisis,” he help overcome the current crisis. He voiced added, lauding the efforts being made by hope that the crisis will be resolved before US President Donald Trump to support the the GCC summit, due in Kuwait in Kuwaiti mediation. December. — KUNA WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 LOCAL

In Brief Autism society chosen Medical innovations Red Arrows perform as advisor for ECOSOC conference this weekend in Kuwait Thursday KUWAIT: The United Nations NGOs committee recently KUWAIT: The Kuwaiti Association for Surgeons said yester- KUWAIT: The Red Arrows, the world-renowned aero- recommended granting Kuwait’s Autism Society an advi- day that they are due to host a four-day conference for inno- batics display team of the Royal Air Force (RAF), will sory position at the Economic and Social Council vations in the medical and surgical field on September 30th. put on an air show tomorrow near Kuwait Towers, (ECOSOC). In this regard, head of the society Dr Samira Al- The conference, the first of its kind, aims to introduce current said a statement by the Defense Ministry yesterday. Saad stressed that this position is considered an interna- doctors to innovations, also to develop new doctors to the The Defense Ministry’s public relations department tional shift for both Kuwait and the society and provides medical situations they will face in their respective fields, said that the show, to be attended by Deputy Prime chances to actively participate in UN organizations’ activi- through workshops and activities. The conference will host Minister and Minister of Defense Sheikh Mohammad ties. This participation followed six years of hard work to international speakers including members from the Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, would commence at highlight the society’s efforts to enhance Kuwait’s position American Association, President of the Kuwait Associations 3:30 pm tomorrow. The Red Arrows did a show in as a center for humanity, she added in a press release. for Surgeons Dr Salman Al-Sabah said. —KUNA Kuwait back in November. — KUNA Photo of the day

KUWAIT: Kuwait City skyscrapers as seen from Al-Shaheed Park.— KUNA photo NA Secretary General US Embassy organizes 1st alumni reception comments on pensions reports By Ben Garcia KUWAIT: The US Embassy in Kuwait organized its first By A Saleh ever reception for Kuwaiti alumni of US State Department educational, professional, cultural and KUWAIT: Responding to news reports speculating training programs. In his welcoming speech, US that exceptional pensions were paid to some MPs, the Ambassador to Kuwait Lawrence R Silverman lauded the National Assembly’s Secretary General Allam Al- largest gathering of alumni in Kuwait which they organ- Kandari stressed that this procedure is not new, and ized for the first time. “Wherever they take place, all of that it was not the first time that the government our programs have a common goal: To increase mutual agreed to pay an exceptional pension to some law- understanding between the people of the United States makers as per article 80 of the social security law. and people living in Kuwait,” he said. Kandari added that ever since the 1992 parliament, According to Silverman, there are nearly 2,000 alumni this pension has usually been paid at the beginning of in Kuwait since the establishments of International each term to MPs who were not paid any pensions Exchange Alumni. “Those of you who are alumni of our before they were elected, or to those who used to get programs form part of a network of over one million paid less compared to their colleagues. program alumni worldwide. You are certainly in good company: International alumni of Department of State Teaching French programs include former British prime ministers Two years after teaching French in intermediate Margaret Thatcher, Gordon Brown, and Tony Blair, for KUWAIT: US Ambassador to Kuwait Lawrence R Silverman Eyad Zaben, the US embassy’s new Alumni Coordinator schools, the Ministry of Education (MOE) decided to example, who all participated in International Visitor delivers his speech. —Photos by Joseph Shagra speaks during the event. call off the experiment and transfer all French teachers Leadership Programs. Altogether, 565 of our alumni are from intermediate to secondary schools, said informed current or former heads of state - so far,” he added. sources. The sources said that the experiment failed “We would love to see more of you registered on because of the fact that the idea was not duly studied alumni.state.gov to continue networking with other dis- prior to implementation, saying that the decision was tinguished peers. Our alumni build on the experiences hastily made. The sources said that studying the sub- they gain and the networks they form through our pro- ject was optional and that learners only had to attend grams; we want to nurture those networks, and help one class of French per week while the subject should them grow,” explained Silverman. have been a basic one so that all learners could benefit The US State Department offers a variety of from it. “Even parents themselves were not aware resources, educational cultural and professional devel- enough,” the source added, noting that learning French opment programs. More than 100 English language was beyond the capabilities of an intermediate stage teachers in Kuwait have had distance learning through English language professionals available to them includ- learner, particularly since they already study another ing the American English E-Teacher Program, the foreign language; English, in addition to Arabic, in American English Webinar Series, and the Massive Open which they are already weak in general. Online Courses. The recent US-Kuwait Strategic Dialogue has reaffirmed that cultural and educational KFA elections exchange is more important than ever to the bilateral Sheikh Ahmad Al-Yousif Al-Sabah, Al-Samiya Sports relationship. Club’s representative in Kuwait Football Association’s Eyad Zaben, the US embassy’s new Alumni (KFA) presidency elections, is getting closer to winning Coordinator said there is a need for the creation of this the post by acclamation as no opponents registered department so as to help alumni in Kuwait. “As Alumni to run the elections until yesterday morning. Coordinator, my main goal is to increase the involve- Candidate Fawaz Al-Hasawi reportedly withdrew from ment of Kuwait-based alumni of US Government the elections, which are set for October 31, without exchange and study programs, facilitating collaboration providing a clear reason for his sudden decision. on topics of mutual interest. This helps our Kuwait- Hasawi had made a decision to run for the elections, based alumni share and deepen their expertise once but Al-Qadsiya Club officials rejected his candidacy, they have returned from different exchange programs in before he finally decided to withdraw, wishing Al- the United States,” he said. The invitation-only reception Yousif good luck. was held at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Salwa. A general view of people in attendance. Aid for Mexico earthquake victims

KUWAIT: The Mexican embassy in Kuwait through the Mexican Red Cross web- through global companies such as efforts for reconstruction, the private sec- Account Name: NACIONAL released the following statement yester- site (https://cruzrojadonaciones. org). The Amazon at https://www.amazon.com.mx/. tor created the “FUERZA MEXICO” trust, in FINANCIERA SNC COMO FlO DEL F day, urging people to continue donating steps are as follows: The steps are as follows: which leaders from the main business 80755 for victims of the earthquake that hit the a. Enter the website and follow the on- a. Enter the website and select “Fuerza chambers will participate to accompany FUERZA MEXICO Swift: BCMRMXMM North American country last week: screen instructions to create an account. Mexico. Donar y ayudar nos une”. the reconstruction actions in the states Bank: BBVA Bancomer Branch: 0095 Regarding the earthquake that b. The credit card data is captured b. Choose the option “Cruz Roja that were affected by recent earthquakes. Address: Av. Paseo de Ia Reforma N. occurred in Mexico on September 19, through a PayPal account (the amount is Mexicana”. There you will find a “wish- In this regard, data are sent for interna- 510 Col. Juarez, CP 06600 2017 and following the demonstrations in Mexican pesos MXN) and select “SISMO list” that is updated in real time accord- tional transfers: 4. Donations may also be made of support and affection of those who 19/09/17” ing to the needs of the Mexican Red Account Number Mexican Pesos: through the Kuwait Red Crescent have expressed their desire to help, list- c. The website confirms that the Cross (Cruz Roja Mexicana), as well as 012180001109759075 or Society https://donation.krcs.org.kw ed below are different ways to make transaction was successful and allows the instructions on how to make the dona- Account Number USD: The Embassy thank you in advance for donations: issuance of a receipt. tion step by step. 012180001109759156 your participation and remains attentive to 1. Cash donations can be made 2. In kind donations can be made 3. As the next phase will focus on the For both bank accounts: any questions or comments on the matter. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 FROM ARABIC PRESS

Al-Anbaa Al-Jarida

A century-old trick The sheep’s future

By Thaar Al-Rasheedi By Fahad Al-Bassam

uring World War II, media machines of all he ship arrived at its final destination loaded the parties involved in that universal war with sheep. The sheep were unloaded, driv- Dthat claimed the lives of millions produced Ten into barns to be fed before their slaugh- special movies and documentaries that are still ter. Meanwhile, tycoon sheep merchants met to available on YouTube today, and through which discuss what to do. The quantity is so big and everyone can see the efforts used to demonize endless profits are expected, yet the question certain people, despise them and make fun of remains: Who will slaughter all the sheep? their culture and religion. The US movie industry This question remained unanswered as the for- played a major role in creating stereotype images mer butcher was so passionate and merciful. He of the German and Japanese that still dominate had inherited the profession from his ancestors Americans’ minds today. though he was not fit for the job. His mercy was The same media mobilization was used during harmful to both merchants and the sheep because the East-West cold war, giving the upper hand to he preferred slaughtering the sheep while listen- US and British media, as the most popular movie ing to Mozart and Chopin symphonies thinking series have been used to slander the Soviet peo- that classic music would calm down the sheep ple. Such movies and animations produced by while facing their destiny and butchers’ knives. Disney were used to slander the people and coun- Slaughtering slowed down as it took a whole tries that were then deemed as enemy to the year to get the job done as each sheep listens to United States. only one sonnet, and one would never manage to This does not mean that No one cares about they did not achieve the courtesy and favors if goal of promoting public interests are at stake hatred towards the enemy. slaughter even one quarter of the entire quantity. Today, screening of such movies and docu- In addition, the butcher’s tenderness and shaking mentaries is banned on any national TV channel hands would only torture the sheep during the in the US because they involve racist calls and process. But it is still his ancestors’ career and phrases against certain people, races and reli- — Al-Anba tycoon merchants still respect their good historic gions. These include movies produced by Warner relation with the butcher’s folks. Brothers and Colombia that only call for mockery Nevertheless, no one cares about courtesy and of their content and of their producers. favors if interests are at stake. That is when they Nonetheless, this does not mean that they did not started considering a new butcher; some suggest- achieve the goal of promoting public hatred Interior news leaker sentenced ed bringing someone from outside while others towards the enemy. rejected the idea on the grounds that a country’s KUWAIT: An Interior Ministry officer was court-martiated and and called police. Police found drugs on the man when he However, when the war was over and such pro- sheep should only be slaughtered by its own sentenced to seven days in jail for leaking ministry news was searched. ductions became a bad media archive that every- butchers. Others suggested distributing the through an account on Twitter. A source said the officer took body is trying to forget, the Arab World still unfor- advantage of his position in a sensitive department to share Drug users arrested sheep amongst themselves so that each can tunately uses such media campaigns that were news and information about citizens and expats. His superiors A young woman was caught with hashish and shabu while slaughter their share as they please. Again, some used over hundred years ago before the revolu- referred him to a military council for disciplinary action. in the company of two citizens and admitted to using drugs merchants opposed the idea on grounds that tion of the press, telegrams, radio and telephones. with the two. Police stopped the three during a routine patrol they were only merchants who knew nothing The same is being done with the revelation of Fugitive caught on Failaka and upon checking, they found the two citizens wanted for about butchery. social media networks and satellite TV channels Failaka policemen arrested an Iranian man who has financial cases involving more than KD 13,000. The citizens A third team of minor merchants expressed that are being used as means of silly, superficial received a 10-year jail sentence for drugs. The man was caught were discovered to have hashish on them and when the willingness to do the slaughtering, but the older yet hostile propaganda. while trying to flee Kuwait via boat. He confessed that an woman’s bag was searched, she was also found to be in pos- ones refused the proposal, noting that those The real problem is that we have developed accomplice helped him reach Failaka and then dropped him session of drugs and drug paraphernalia. All three were sent young merchants lacked enough experience to stereotype images of each other that are used on there. Police saw the man at night and when they to Drugs Control General Department. do the job because trading and butchery were social media networks in cheap disgusting media approached, he ran but was unable to escape. Once his finger- Drug addict fails at suicide bid two different things completely. More and more wars. What is even worse is that we have a hidden prints were taken, it was discovered that he was wanted. He A suspected drug addict failed in his attempt to commit unusual and extraordinary ideas were suggested, reserve of racial and regional hatred that is being was sent to concerned authorities. suicide by jumping from a water tank. A security source said a according to sources who stated that the meeting used in this war leaving us no option but to rely on man called police about a person climbing on top of a water is still ongoing to determine the future of slaugh- Arab recipients’ awareness to be the final judge in House breaker arrested tank at the Jahra stables. The man was yelling and threatening tering sheep. Meanwhile, the sheep are waiting in attempts to put an end to the bad use of social A young man was arrested after entering a house with to jump. Police, paramedics and technical rescue officers boredom and depression without even listening media as cheap and old means of propaganda. criminal intent and being in possession of illicit drugs. A citi- rushed to the scene and convinced the man to come down. He to any music. — Translated by Kuwait Times — Translated by Kuwait Times zen heard noise in his house and when he went to see, he was found to be under the influence of a narcotic substance found the accused. The homeowner tackled the stranger and was charged with attempted suicide and drug use. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 German IS leader on trial for Netanyahu congratulates Merkel after German ballot recruiting jihadists Page 7 Page 8

ABU GHOSH, Israel: Mourners carry the coffin of Arab Israeli man, Youssef Ottman, one of three Israeli guards killed in a Palestinian shooting attack on a Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank, during his funeral yesterday. — AFP Palestinian gunman kills three Israelis Israeli PM demands clear condemnation of attack

HAR ADAR: A Palestinian opened fire at Israeli that separates the occupied West Bank from Israel. fied the gunman as Nimer Aljamal, a 37-year-old of a peaceful future for both Palestinians and attack at Har Adar is the Palestinian reception for security personnel at the entrance to a West Bank The windows of the guard booth at its north- father of four from the nearby Palestinian village Israelis,” he said. Police named the border police- US envoy Jason Greenblatt,” she said. Hotovely settlement yesterday, killing three and wounding ern entrance, where Palestinian day laborers are of Beit Surik with no previous “security back- man killed as Solomon Gavria, 20.Har Adar resi- renewed the Israeli government’s call for the another before being shot dead, police said. The required to undergo security checks, had been ground”. Rosenfeld described Aljamal’s profile as dent Steve Leibowitz, 65, said the settlement’s Palestinian Authority to stop paying allowances to attack, which came as US envoy Jason Greenblatt shattered by the shooting, an AFP correspondent “very unusual” by comparison with others who proximity to the Green Line had always made it the families of those who lost their lives carrying was due in Jerusalem for talks on relaunching the reported. Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said have carried out lone-wolf attacks during a wave feel safe. “This place is quiet. We’re inside the West out attacks. The issue is a deeply divisive one, with moribund Middle East peace process, drew con- that the gunman, who had a permit to work in the of unrest that has hit Israel and the Palestinian ter- Bank but we have a border fence and we feel as many Palestinians seeing those killed carrying out demnation from Israeli officials who called for settlement, had concealed himself among other ritories over the past two years. He said there though we are inside Israel and safe,” he said. “Until attacks against the “occupation forces” as martyrs, action from the Palestinian leadership. It also Palestinian laborers. “He hesitated and then all of a would have to be a security review of work per- today I haven’t locked my doors in years. Now I will while Israelis see them as “terrorists”. West Bank set- occurred in the middle of the Jewish high holiday sudden, several meters before a security check, mits for Palestinians to work in Israel and the set- be locking the doors.” The latest attack comes near- tlements are a source of significant tensions period, when Israeli-Palestinian violence has pulled out a nine millimeter weapon and opened tlements, with thousands granted. ly two years after a wave of unrest broke out. The between Israel and the Palestinians and have been erupted in the past, and led police to order rein- fire directly at the two private security guards, Netanyahu called on the Palestinian president violence had greatly subsided in recent months a major sticking point in peace talks. The UN envoy forcements to prevent further unrest. who were shot and killed directly at the scene,” to condemn the attack. “I expect (Abbas) to con- but Shin Bet chief Nadav Argaman warned in a told the Security Council on Monday that Israel Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Rosenfeld said. “He also opened fire to a border demn the attack and not try to justify it,” he said. briefing to the cabinet earlier this month that the continues to build settlements “at a high rate,” in demanded a clear condemnation of the attack police officer that was also located here. “And Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas, which rules risk of new attacks was ever present. defiance of Security Council demands for an end to from Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, adding another two officers, that were standing approxi- Gaza, hailed the attack as “revenge for the crime of their expansion. The international community that the gunman’s home would be demolished mately where we are at the moment, responded, occupation against our people.” The UN envoy to Reception for US envoy regards all Jewish settlements in the occupied West and Israeli work permits withdrawn from his opened fire and shot and killed that terrorist.” the Middle East Nickolay Mladenov condemned Deputy Foreign Minister Tzipi Hotovely said the Bank, including Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem, as extended family. The target of the attack was Har both the attack and the Hamas reaction. “It is Palestinian leadership needed to take action or illegal. They are seen as major stumbling blocks to Adar, a well-to-do settlement northwest of Work permits under review deplorable that Hamas and others continue to glo- there would be no point in following up on the US peace as they are built on land the Palestinians see Jerusalem, high in the hills close to the Green Line Israel’s Shin Bet internal security service identi- rify such attacks, which undermine the possibility initiative to relaunch peace talks. “The terrible as part of their future state. —AFP Qatar laborer ‘sacked’ N Korea bolsters defenses SEOUL: North Korea has boosted defenses denied on Monday that the United States on its east coast, a South Korean lawmaker had declared war, calling the suggestion said yesterday, after the North said US “absurd”. Speaking in Beijing, Chinese after speaking to UN team President Donald Trump had declared war Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said and that it would shoot down US bombers war on the Korean peninsula would have no DOHA: A Nepalese construction worker in Qatar previous meeting of the ILO governing body in team from the ILO visited a labor camp in Qatar. flying near the peninsula. Tensions have winner. “We hope the US and North Korean was “sacked” the day after speaking to a UN dele- March 2017, Vargha said, in the context of a com- As well as losing his job after telling the UN escalated since North Korea conducted its politicians have sufficient political judgment gation visiting the 2022 World Cup host country to plaint against Doha for non-compliance with two body about unpaid wages and employers illegally sixth and most powerful nuclear test on to realize that resorting to military force will examine labor conditions, sources said. The inci- ratified ILO international conventions-namely the holding his passport, the laborer was also handed Sept 3, but the rhetoric has reached a new never be a viable way to resolve the penin- dent is considered serious enough that the UN’s Forced Labor Convention and the Labor Inspection a one-way ticket home to Nepal by bosses, unions level in recent days with leaders on both sula issue and their own concerns,” Lu told a International Labor Organization (ILO) said it Convention. “The complaint will be further dis- said. Officials at the International Trade Union sides exchanging threats and insults. daily news briefing. would be on the agenda when its governing body cussed by the Governing Body at its November Confederation (ITUC) say the timing of the dis- North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong “We also hope that both sides can realize meets in two months to discuss an investigation 2017 session,” she added. missal “indicates it was a retaliatory act by his Ho said Trump’s Twitter comments, in which that being bent on assertiveness and pro- into allegations of forced labor by Qatar. That meeting could see the ILO launch a formal employer”. “This is a violation under international the US leader said Ri and leader Kim Jong voking each other will only increase the risk “The ILO has been following closely this case investigation into Qatar over its treatment of labor standards and contradicts the commitments Un “won’t be around much longer” if they of conflict and reduce room for policy and continues to do so with a view to ensuring migrant workers. The construction worker’s plight Qatar has repeatedly made before the ILO,” said acted on their threats, amounted to a decla- maneuvers. War on the peninsula will have that the rights of this Nepalese worker are fully has also been confirmed by two separate unions. ITUC head Sharan Burrow. ration of war and that Pyongyang had the no winner.” respected and protected,” Corinne Vargha, director The incident occurred in March 2016, but could The union said the 29-year-old worker never got right to take countermeasures. South Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, speak- of the ILO’s international labor standards depart- only now be reported because of sensitivities sur- on the plane, but was subsequently jailed for two Korean lawmaker Lee Cheol-uoo, briefed by ing on the sidelines of a UN meeting in New ment, said in a statement. The case was raised in a rounding the case. It happened when a six-strong weeks due to losing his work sponsor. Under the the country’s spy agency, said the reclusive York, said the situation on the Korean penin- “kafala” system, the prevailing law at the time of the North was in fact bolstering its defences by sula was at a very dangerous stage, the for- incident, all foreign workers in Qatar required a moving aircraft to its east coast and taking eign ministry said yesterday. The urgent task local sponsor in order to work and maintain resi- other measures after US bombers flew close was to prevent North Korea’s nuclear and dency. That sponsor, whether an individual or com- to the Korean peninsula at the weekend. missile programs progressing, to avoid a fur- pany, must grant permission for the laborer to Lee said the United States appeared to ther escalation in tensions and to especially switch jobs or leave the country. have disclosed the flight route of the prevent resorting to arms, Wang added. The Nepalese national was not working on a bombers intentionally because North Korea While repeatedly calling for dialogue to World Cup project, but the 2022 event has put a seemed to be unaware. Ri, the foreign min- resolve the issue, China has also signed up spotlight on labor conditions in Qatar. The man’s ister, said on Monday the North’s right to for increasingly tough UN sanctions case was cleared earlier this year and he opted to countermeasures included shooting down against North Korea. stay in Qatar, working for a new employer and US bombers “even when they are not inside China’s fuel exports to North Korea fell earning around 1,600 Qatari Riyals per month-an the airspace border of our country”. “The in August, along with iron ore imports average salary for a laborer in Qatar. Despite whole world should clearly remember it was from the isolated nation, as trade slowed requests there was no immediate comment from the US who first declared war on our coun- after the latest UN sanctions, but coal ship- the Qatari government. try,” he told reporters in New York on ments resumed after a five-month hiatus, In recent years Doha claims to have made Monday, where he had been attending the customs data showed yesterday. South annual United Nations General Assembly. Korean President Moon Jae-in urged Kim great strides in labor relations, including reforms “The question of who won’t be around Jong Un to resume military talks and to ensure wages are paid promptly, improved DOHA: A general view shows boats moored in front of the skyline of the Qatari capital, much longer will be answered then,” he said. reunions of families split by the 1950-53 accommodations and the abolition of kafala for a Doha. A Nepalese construction worker in Qatar was ‘sacked’ the day after speaking to a UN White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders Korean War to ease tension. — Reuters delegation visiting the 2022 World Cup host country to examine labor conditions. — AFP new, contract-based system. — AFP INTERNATIONAL WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 News Netanyahu congratulates in brief

PM Modi promises electricity for every Indian house by 2018 Merkel after German ballot NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed that every home in India will have electricity by December 2018 as he moves to shore up voter support amid doubts over Israeli PM voices anti-Semitism concerns on left, right his handling of the economy. The $2.5 billion scheme announced Monday would see the country’s 40 million JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister ly a threat from the right. “Israel is con- households without electricity linked up to power for free. Benjamin Netanyahu voiced concern over cerned over the rise in anti-Semitism in “Forty million of the total 250 million households still don’t anti-Semitism on the left and right in a con- recent years among political elements on have power, which means 25 percent of people are living gratulatory phone call to German the right and the left and also among in the 18th century. The government will electrify every Chancellor Angela Merkel yesterday after Islamic elements,” the statement said, with- household, whether it’s in a village, city or a remote region,” an election that returned her to power but out naming any parties. Modi said in a speech. brought the far right into parliament. Last month, Netanyahu’s 26-year-old Merkel’s conservative bloc remains the son, Yair, drew public criticism in Israel for largest group in Germany’s lower house, suggesting on social media that hard-left Thousands evacuated from but bled support in Sunday’s poll to the far organizations now pose more of a danger Vanuatu as volcano erupts right and may need to cobble together a than neo-Nazi groups. Yair Netanyahu SYDNEY: Vanuatu has declared a state of emergency hitherto untested coalition with environ- spoke after a protester was killed during a and evacuated thousands of residents from an island mentalist and liberal parties. white nationalist rally in the US state of in the Pacific archipelago after a volcanic eruption Jewish groups in Europe and the United Virginia in August. US President Donald rained rocks and ash on nearby homes, reports and States expressed alarm at the success of Trump stirred controversy at the time by officials said yesterday. After weeks of rumbling, activi- the nationalist Alternative for Germany insisting that left-wing protesters who ty from the Manaro Voui volcano-at the centre of the (AfD) in Sunday’s ballot and urged other showed up to counter the ultra-rightist ral- northern island of Ambae-increased in recent days, the parties not to form an alliance with it. ly were also to blame for violence. Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department Those parties have pledged to shun the The far-right has not been represented said. The department on Saturday raised the alert level AfD. The AfD, which has surged in the two in the German parliament since the from three to four, which represents a “moderate erup- years since Merkel opened Germany’s bor- 1950s, a reflection of German efforts to tion state”, and warned of “flying rocks and volcanic ders to more than 1 million migrants main- distance themselves from the horrors of gas” affecting villages up to 6.5 kilometers from ly fleeing Middle East wars, says immigra- the Holocaust. Germany, home today to Manaro Voui. tion jeopardizes Germany’s culture but JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opens the weekly cabinet about 200,000 Jews, has built a reputa- denies it is racist or anti-Semitic. meeting at his Jerusalem office.—AFP tion in recent decades as a tolerant, safe A statement issued by Netanyahu’s office quoted Netanyahu as having “congratulated been Germany’s chancellor since 2005. place for Jews to live. But data show anti- Malaysian Muslim-only did not mention the AfD by name in calling Merkel on her victory” and voicing confi- In the statement, a recap Netanyahu Semitic crimes reported to German police launderette stirs anger on Merkel’s future government to “strength- dence the “special relationship between gave his cabinet of his conversation with rose 4 percent to 681 in the first eight KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian launderette that banned en forces in Germany that accept historical Germany and Israel would deepen and Merkel, the conservative Israeli leader months of 2017 from the same period non-Muslim customers sparked anger yesterday as fears responsibility” for the Nazi Holocaust. It prosper under her leadership”. Merkel has pointed to anti-Semitism as not being sole- last year.—Reuters grow of creeping religious conservatism in the multi-ethnic country. The self-service shop in the town of Muar, in the southern state of Johor, put up a sign saying that it would Doctors, hospitals only allow Muslim customers. Malay Muslims make up the Returning home, Syrians find majority of Malaysia’s approximately 30 million inhabitants among Taleban but the country is also home to sizeable ethnic Chinese Raqa beyond recognition and Indian minorities, and restricting shops or services to a casualties of war certain religion is rare. RAQA: Bashar Hammoud thought he KANDAHAR, Afghanistan: After the Taleban closed his knew his native Raqa like the back of local health clinic, Afghan farmer Haji Fazel Ahmad was his hand, but a months-long offensive Japan man nabbed for trying forced to rent a car to take his sick wife to the nearest against the Islamic State group has hospital six hours away. To his dismay the insurgents had to steal car with cops inside scarred the Syrian city so badly he can TOKYO: A would-be car thief in Japan has been shut that too. It is a scenario being played out across barely recognize it. Hammoud, a 26- Afghanistan as medical facilities and workers come under nabbed after he tried to steal a vehicle-with several year-old member of the US-backed police officers inside. Ushio Sato, 23, was caught red- attack from all sides of the bloody conflict, denying ordi- Syrian Democratic Forces, was floored nary people access to even the most basic healthcare. handed trying to make off with the unmarked police when he entered the battered north- car in his failed pre-dawn heist on Monday, said a Since January more than 200 medical centers have eastern district of Al-Rumeilah on been forced to close-most temporarily-while 13 aid police spokeswoman in the central city of Numazu. Monday for the first time in years. “I She declined to give more details. Japanese media workers have been killed and over 150 injured, figures used to come here a lot because my show, underscoring the growing violence as Afghan reports said the luckless Sato did not notice there were uncles lived here and the college of lit- forces struggle to beat back a resurgent Taleban and officers inside the unlocked vehicle, which was at a erature, where I studied, was here,” the other Islamist groups. local parking lot. He immediately fled but was quickly bony member of the SDF’s media In recent days Taleban fighters have closed scores caught, according to the Sankei newspaper. It was not office tells AFP. of medical facilities in the impoverished southern clear if the officers were wearing uniforms or were on “I don’t even know where we are. If I province of Uruzgan in what authorities say is an duty at the time. got out of the car now, I wouldn’t know attempt to force the local government to set up more how to go back. It’s all gone. I know clinics in areas under control of the insurgents, appar- we’re in Al-Rumeilah-but where in Al- ently to treat their own fighters. Bangladesh plans separate “We were in the clinic when a number of armed Rumeilah, I don’t know,” he says. The dis- RAQA: Displaced Syrians are pictured after they fled central Raqa as Syrian shelters for Rohingya children trict’s two-storey homes have been men came in and asked us to give them the keys and DHAKA: Bangladesh is planning to build separate shelters fighters backed by US special forces are battling to clear the last remaining told us we could no longer stay there,” Ehsanullah, a smashed to the ground by bombard- Islamic State group jihadists holed up in their crumbling stronghold.—AFP for 6,000 Rohingya Muslim children who entered the coun- ment. Fighters from the US-backed SDF- doctor based on the outskirts of the provincial capital try without parents to escape violence in neighboring which broke into Raqa in June after Syrian capital Raqa. The Raqa natives look at the SDF flag. Colors are coming Tarinkot, said. Other facilities shuttered by the Taleban Myanmar, a government official said yesterday. Children spending months encircling the city-are among them say it has been dizzying back to Raqa,” Hammoud says. Still, the were located in Charchino district where Ahmad and make up about 60 percent of the more than 420,000 roaming the rubble-littered streets, but to see neighborhoods they had known once-bustling neighborhood just his wife live. “There were no health services available so Rohingya Muslims who have poured into Bangladesh over no civilians are in sight. for years being called different names ahead is jarring for him: “I was shocked I spent 2,500 Afs on a car fare to Tarinkot but unfortu- the last four weeks to flee persecution in Buddhist-majority When a pair of air strikes send con- by people who lived under IS’s iron fist. when I came here. The shops are emp- nately the situation is no better,” Ahmad said. The poor Myanmar. Junior minister Nuruzzaman Ahmed said the secutive booms echoing across Al- An area called Al-Hukumah- ty. It’s like we went back 100 years.” farmer then had to borrow more money to rent anoth- social welfare ministry has asked local authorities for 200 Rumeilah, Hammoud furrows his brows. ”government”-has become known as Farther along the route lies Al-Meshleb, er car to drive to Kandahar city in the neighboring province of the same name in the hope of finding treat- acres of land to build facilities for the children without par- His family home lies in Al-Maarri, an IS- Al-Hikmeh, or “wisdom.” the first district that SDF fighters ment for his ailing wife. ents, and about 1,580 such children have already been reg- held district about 500 meters to the The Al-Bassel Mosque, named after entered in June-and the neighborhood The 2014 withdrawal of US-led NATO combat forces istered.—Agencies west, and he has not seen it since flee- President Bashar al-Assad’s older where Fahed al-Meshlebi grew up. brother, was renamed Al-Nur. And At the time, Meshlebi was living in a has fuelled the insurgency, driving up casualties and ing Raqa in December 2014. “Standing increasing pressure on healthcare providers. Medical most infamously, the Al-Naim round- displacement camp north of Raqa and or destroyed, my only wish now is to see facilities and workers have been targeted by all sides of UN launches new about where IS carried out beheadings decided to join the SDF’s battle against my home, but I know that that neigh- the conflict including the Taleban, Islamic State, Afghan and crucifixions was renamed “Al- IS. “I haven’t gone to Al-Meshleb yet. I plan to end Libya’s borhood hasn’t been liberated yet,” he military and international forces, experts say. The says. “My comrades told me hopefully Jaheem”-the Roundabout of Hell. At want to finish here first,” he says, his motives include denying wounded enemy combatants post-revolution turmoil today, it will be liberated. If my house is the eastern entrance to the city, thick tangle of hair pulled back from medical treatment, killing those already inside a facility gone, it’ll be a shock to me.” Hammoud points to two large triangu- his eyes by a colorful bandana as he or using the centre as a shelter during battle. TUNIS: The United Nations launched a new push yes- lar flags hanging from a metal frame: stands on the western edge of Al- terday to stabilize Libya by getting rival factions to They are also sometimes used as a bargaining chip, Colors are coming back one belonging to the SDF, and the oth- Rumeilah. “I don’t know this neighbor- revise a stalled peace plan and set the country on the like in Uruzgan, to improve medical access for fighters More than three years after IS er to the Kurdish People’s Protection hood anymore. The street I used to while on other occasions they appear to be the unin- path to elections. The effort aims to end the turmoil declared a self-styled “caliphate” across Units (YPG). know here has been completely wiped that developed in Libya after a 2011 NATO-backed tended target such as the deadly US airstrike on a swathes of Syria and Iraq, the SDF’s “There used to be a big black flag out,” Meshlebi tells AFP, saying he could Doctors Without Borders trauma centre in northern uprising ended Muammar Gaddafi’s 42-year rule, giv- Arab and Kurdish fighters hold around there with the phrase everyone knows- barely make out “hints” of familiar Kunduz province in 2015. —AFP ing space to Islamist militants and smuggling networks 90 percent of its one-time de facto ’the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.’ Now shops or landmarks. —AFP that have sent hundreds of thousands of migrants to Europe. Political and military splits have left the North African country mired in conflict and the OPEC mem- ber’s economy in freefall. Rival parliaments and gov- ernments have vied for power. Last week, UN envoy Ghassan Salame announced a one-year “action plan” for a transition towards presidential and parliamentary elections. The plan got underway yesterday with negotiations between delegations from rival parliaments from east- ern Libya and Tripoli, which are meant to draw up amendments to a previous UN-mediated plan signed in December 2015. As the delegations convened in Tunis, Salame urged them to set aside their differences and complete their work in a timely fashion. “All Libyans are fed up. They are going from transition to transition with no horizon,” he said. “We have sleeping institutions that need to be awoken, divided institutions that need to be united, and hijacked institutions that need to be rebuilt.” The 2015 deal had only had limited support from power- brokers on the ground and was never endorsed by fac- tions aligned with powerful military commander Khalifa Haftar that control eastern Libya. An UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) in Tripoli has been hamstrung by internal splits and has been unable to halt a slide in living standards or tame the power of armed groups. “We’re here to move the political process forward for the sake of the country’s stability,” said Moussa Faraj, head of the delegation from the High Council of State in Tripoli, according to a tweet from the United Nations from the meeting which got closed to the press after Salame’s speech. Under the new UN plan, once amendments have been agreed a national con- ference drawing on a much larger number of represen- tatives from across Libya is meant to select the mem- bers of a transitional government that would run the country until elections. The eastern parliament, or House of Representatives (HOR), is expected to devise laws for national elections and for a referendum to approve a much-delayed con- stitution. The chamber has barely functioned over the past two years and has been boycotted by a large num- ber of its members. “Our task is difficult,” said Abdusalam Nasia, head of the HOR delegation, according to the United Nations. “I call on all to leave personal interests behind and focus on common interests.”—Reuters WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 INTERNATIONAL

Female US Marine becomes 1st woman to pass infantry officer training

NEW YORK: A female US Marine has become the alongside a photo of the woman during training. The first woman to complete the Corps’ notoriously gru- Marine Corps says its “grueling 13-week course trains eling infantry officer course, seeing off dozens of and educates newly selected infantry and ground male candidates who failed the selection training. intelligence officers in leadership, infantry skills, and The physical and mental tests include hikes carry- character required to serve as infantry platoon com- ing loads up to 152 pounds, swimming, obstacle manders”. The lieutenant’s next assignment will be at courses, land navigation and weapons assembly. the 1st Marine Division at Camp Pendleton in Typically a quarter of Marines who take part fail to California, it said. As an officer she is expected to make the grade. lead a platoon of typically around 40 Marines. Under former President Barack Obama, the US “Marines expect and rightfully deserve compe- military opened all positions to women, including tent and capable leaders, and these... graduates combat roles, for the first time in 2016 in a bid to met every training requirement,” Neller said in a make the armed forces more inclusive. The female statement. About 15 percent of more than 1.3 mil- lieutenant, who wanted to keep her identity private, lion US active duty troops are women, according to was one of 88 Marines out of 131 who started the the Department of Defense. Earlier this year, the course in July to make it through the 13-week pro- Corps was rattled by nude photo sharing scandal gram - graduating in Quantico, Virginia, on Monday, involving a private Facebook group and its surrepti- the military said. tious distribution of explicit images of women in CALIFORNIA: This US Marine Corps photo shows an unidentified Marine as she participates in an “Proud of this officer & her fellow leaders,” tweet- the armed forces, often with obscene, misogynist exercise during the Infantry Officer Course at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center ed Marine Corps commandant Gen. Robert Neller commentary. —Reuters Twentynine Palms, California. — AFP

Trump twitter tirades deepen Asia alarm over conflict risk

SEOUL: Donald Trump may have stumbled with Washington and Seoul. “When war into dangerous new territory with tweets becomes a real possibility, China must be that North Korea interpreted as a declara- prepared,” the article said. The more hope- tion of war, alarming a region used to liv- ful interpretation of Trump’s tweeting, said ing on the edge but now seriously consid- Kelly, is that Kim is not the target at all; ering the possibility of conflict. Observers rather it is intended to persuade China to say the US president’s fondness for Twitter “stop looking the other way”. diplomacy is creating a situation ripe for Beijing has traditionally provided an dangerous misunderstandings as he pur- economic lifeline to its isolated neighbor, sues an increasingly personal row with Kim fearful of the destabilizing consequences Jong-Un. of regime collapse or conflict. But after the Trump’s tweet that the Pyongyang latest nuclear test, it signed up to tough regime “won’t be around much longer” new sanctions, including potentially dam- elicited alarm from North Korea, with its aging restrictions on crude oil, aimed at foreign minister saying the US had squeezing Pyongyang. Even so, Trump con- “declared a war”. Although the White tinues to poke the hornet’s nest, either House dismissed this reading as “absurd”, unaware of, or maybe in spite of, the damage may have been done-North Pyongyang’s growing outrage. Korea takes a very dim view of what it per- ceives as threats against its leadership. “If Dotard we get into a war it’s because of misper- With few of the normal contacts that ception,” said Robert Kelly, professor of grease the wheels of interaction between political science at Pusan National two countries-no embassies, infrequent University. “In the real world there is no chances for diplomats to meet the US and need to have conflict.” North Korea often conduct their relation- Nevertheless, tensions are surging. ship in full public view. That this relation- Pyongyang’s missile program has stepped ship has descended into playground GERMANY: Policemen secure the area around the Higher Regional Court in Celle near Hanover, central Germany, where a trial started against up a gear with two of its most recent insults-Trump is a “mentally deranged... notorious hate preacher Abu Walaa, described as the Islamic State group’s de facto leader in Germany. —AFP launches sailing over a nervous Japan. This dotard”; Kim is “Little Rocket Man”-carries month it conducted its largest ever nuclear risks, says Kim Hyun-Wook, professor at the test-what it claimed was a hydrogen bomb. Korea National Diplomatic Academy. In the wake of the nuclear test, academics “The US and North Korea don’t want to German IS leader on trial in China began openly calling for a drive this to a military conflict but if this reassessment of Beijing’s long-term policy psychological warfare persists, one side of support for North Korea. Pyongyang has could unintentionally cross the red line “largely ignored China’s efforts” to resolve which will prompt the other to launch a for recruiting jihadists the situation with dialogue, said Jia counteraction, leading to an armed clash,” Qingguo of Peking University, in an article he said. Those actions and counteractions entitled “Time to prepare for the worst in are already starting to play out. A hint late If found guilty, accused to face 10 years in prison North Korea”. last week that Pyongyang might respond The commentary, the first of several to Trump’s insults with an atmospheric CELLE, Germany: Notorious hate preacher Abu als in recent years.” If found guilty, the accused who last year set off a home-made bomb at an from Chinese academics in what some nuclear test raises the stakes-and the Walaa, described as the Islamic State group’s de would face up to 10 years in prison, according to Indian wedding, badly wounding a Sikh priest. observers see as a sharp warning to Kim, chance of miscalculation-next time the facto leader in Germany, went on trial yesterday DPA news agency. Much of the prosecution’s case rests on evidence urged Beijing to consider contingency talks regime fires a missile, say analysts. —AFP accused of radicalizing young men and running a collected by an unidentified informant who infil- jihadist network linked to the Berlin Christmas Deadly attacks trated the network for months. But the witness is market attacker. Nicknamed “the faceless preach- A shadowy figure who long evaded capture, not expected to testify at the trial after Walaa er” for showing his back to the camera in propa- Walaa has been linked to some of Germany’s urged his followers to kill the mole. Walaa and his ganda videos, the 33-year-old Iraqi was arrested most high profile jihadist attacks since arriving in co-accused have not been charged with planning last November on suspicion of being the “central the country in 2001. After setting up his base in any attacks in Germany. figure” in an IS recruitment ring. Hildesheim, a northern town seen as a hotbed of But according to the indictment, they provid- Walaa-named by the authorities as Ahmad Islamic radicalism, he made a name for himself ed logistical and financial support to smuggle at Abdulaziz Abdullah Abdullah-appeared before a delivering extremist sermons at the notorious DIK least eight fighters into IS-held territory. Among court in the northern German city of Celle along- mosque, which has since been shut down. Walaa, them were German twins Mark and Kevin K., who side four co-defendants accused of supporting IS. who has two wives and several children, also blew themselves up in separate suicide blasts tar- The five created a “pan-regional Salafist-jihadist gave seminars across the country calling for jihad. geting Iraqi security forces. Together, they killed network” in which Walaa “took on the leading role He notably spoke at a Berlin mosque frequent- more than 150 soldiers. Another recruit was Anil as the representative of the so-called Islamic State ed by Anis Amri, who drove a truck through a O. who joined IS in Syria but fled after becoming in Germany,” prosecutors said in their indictment. crowded Christmas market last December, killing disgusted with the terror group’s tactics. He “The goal of the network was to send people to IS 12 people. German intelligence services took pic- returned to Germany, where he was arrested in in Syria or Iraq.” tures of Amri in Hildesheim some 10 months ear- September 2016. The closely-watched terror trial, expected to lier, prompting speculation he had ties to the net- According to Spiegel, he turned on Walaa and run until early 2018, opened under heavy security work. Amri was shot dead by police in Italy days provided crucial information in return for a with armed police on patrol outside the court- after his rampage. Walaa’s four accomplices-a reduced sentence. Walaa’s lawyer Peter Krieger house. “For a long time little has been known Turkish national, a German, a German-Serbian has dismissed the former fighter’s testimony as about the backroom men, those who seduce and and a Cameroonian, aged between 27 and 51 — “lies”. Germany’s security services estimate there incite to jihad,” Der Spiegel news weekly wrote. are likewise accused of indoctrinating young men are around 10,300 radical Islamists in the country, IN FLIGHT: This US Air Force handout photo shows A US Air Force B-1B Lancer, “The proceedings against Abu Walaa promise to with jihadist ideology. compared to some 3,800 in 2011. About 700 of flanked by Republic of Korea Air Force F-15K Slam Eagles, dropping a 2,000 pound give deep insights into these mechanisms, which German media reported that among their “stu- them are considered dangerous and capable of a live munition at Pilsung Training Range, South Korea as part of a show of force mis- makes this one of the most interesting Islamist tri- dents” was at least one of the three teenage boys violent attack. —AFP sion in response to unlawful North Korean ballistic missile tests. — AFP In Mexico’s earthquake, Merkel seeks partners tragedies and miracles MEXICO CITY: More than 300 people years, the pair in their fifties had an 18- in splintered Germany were killed in last week’s earthquake that year-old daughter. They had met while rocked Mexico-and behind the numeric working for a state-owned enterprise, he toll are hundreds more poignant stories as a topographical engineer and she as a BERLIN: Chancellor Angela Merkel to be “proud” of their WWII veterans of Merkel’s 12 years in power. into the country since 2015. But that survivors will always remember. lawyer. “They stayed together, united,” got down to work yesterday in the and calling for a government offi- A total of five million voters after the SPD scored a humiliating Here is a collection of accounts from the the young man said. “That’s what we’ll fractured political landscape left by cial who is of Turkish origin to be turned their backs on the govern- 20.5 percent, a post-war record, it hard-hit capital Mexico City: remember.” Germany’s “earthquake” election, “dumped in Anatolia”. The AfD ing parties, and 1.5 million of them ruled out further cooperation with seeking a ruling majority to help poached support from both main- voted for the AfD. According to Merkel, meaning her search for a A sister’s love Hope, then mourning neutralize a newly empowered stream camps, the conservatives opinion polls, most of those voters ruling alliance became infinitely “We’re here, the whole family. We will The sons of Maria Ortiz lived three hard right. Merkel was to hold and the Social Democrats (SPD), pointed to anger over Merkel’s bor- more complicated. not move until we have you with us,” days of anguish peppered with moments meetings at the Bundestag lower junior partners in the “grand coali- der policy, which allowed more Karina Ganoa cried out through a mega- of hope. Their 57-year-old mother, a house, where her conservative tion” that has led Germany for eight than one million asylum seekers From Bavaria to Jamaica? phone. The young woman clung to the housekeeper, was trapped in the rubble CDU/CSU group saw its number of Commentators said Tuesday hope that her brother Erick might still be of an elegant yet dilapidated building in seats axed to 246 from 309 previ- that Merkel’s only other option- alive-even after he was buried under the the chic Condesa neighborhood. For ously following its worst poll show- trying a link-up with the pro-busi- rubble of an office building in the city’s long hours, they hoped she had sur- ing in seven decades. ness Free Democrats (FDP) and Roma district. “Your wife is fine! Your par- vived. “She tried to go down but missed Joining her at the glass-domed the ecologist Greens-would be ents are fine! Your siblings-you know a few steps to reach the hallway before Reichstag parliament building for fraught with risk. The grouping that I love you,” she shouted, her desper- everything collapsed,” said Leobardo the first time were the 93 deputies has been dubbed a Jamaica coali- ate message chilling viewers of the Lopez Ortiz, 36, during his mother’s wake of the Alternative for Germany, a tion for the parties’ colors match- channel ForoTV as it was broadcast over the weekend. party branded far-right by many ing the Caribbean nation’s flag. throughout Mexico. But tragically, her When they learned the building had German media outlets and officials. The daily Bild, which had called 35-year-old brother was found dead fallen, the sons along with uncles and “The language of the campaign is the election a “political earth- Thursday, Mexican media reported. cousins left their neighborhood further different than the one in parlia- quake”, reported that party lead- Arms raised, rescuers held a minute of east in the hope they could rescue her, ment,” one of the party’s leading ers had spoken by phone late silence in his honor. working through the rubble alongside members, Alexander Gauland, told Sunday about the possibility of military officers. “Virtually all the steps of reporters outside the main cham- working together in Merkel’s A final embrace the staircase fell on her,” said the eldest ber. “We know that we have a big fourth term. Germans also seem The lifeless bodies of Gabriel Morales son Richard, 38. Her lifeless body was responsibility in parliament, also to to have warmed to the idea, with and his wife Agueda Mendoza were finally found Friday. Despite the pain, our voters.” a poll by the independent found locked in an embrace, said their Richard said he was trying to stay calm: “I Gauland, a CDU defector, had Infratest dimap institute showing nephew Juan Carlos Williams, speaking want to believe that under the weight, sparked outrage in the run-up to BERLIN: German Chancellor Angela Merkel leaves after giving a press 57 percent support. However on the day of their funeral. Married for 23 she died on the spot.” —AFP the election for incendiary com- conference at the headquarters of the Christian Democratic Union strong ideological differences ments, including urging Germans (CDU) party in Berlin one day after general elections. — AFP could hinder the alliance. —AFP WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 INTERNATIONAL No Indian boots on the ground in Afghanistan

NEW DELHI: India will not deploy troops to Bite the bullet Afghanistan as part of a new US strategy for In Afghanistan, the Taliban are continu- the war-torn country, the Indian defense ing to mount deadly attacks, control large minister said yesterday, but she promised to areas of territory and are killing Afghan boost support for the recently unveiled forces in the thousands. Under the plan, effort. After talks with US Defense Secretary the US is sending more than 3,000 addi- Jim Mattis, Nirmala Sitharaman said India tional troops to Afghanistan to train and was prepared to increase training for Afghan advise the country’s security forces. There is personnel and help develop critical civilian no timeline on when the US may pull its infrastructure such as schools and hospitals. troops out-a change from under Barack “India’s contribution to Afghanistan has Obama, who set dates for when he wanted been for a very long time, and has been con- troops home. sistently on developmental issues,” But critics have questioned what the Sitharaman said at a news conference with extra US soldiers can accomplish that pre- Mattis. The “contribution has been on these vious forces-who numbered some 100,000 grounds and we shall expand if necessary. at the height of the fighting-have not. However as we have made it very clear, Earlier this year Afghan President Ashraf there should not be boots from India on the Ghani ordered a near doubling of the ground.” Mattis’ trip to India is the first by country’s elite fighting force from 17,000 as any member of President Donald part of a four-year roadmap that also aims Trump’s cabinet. It comes just after to strengthen Afghanistan’s air force. While Trump unveiled a new Afghanistan strategy Trump’s commitment to increase American and urged New Delhi to help. “We applaud troop numbers and leave them there indef- India’s invaluable contributions to initely has been welcomed by Afghan Afghanistan and welcome further efforts to authorities, they know it will take time to promote Afghanistan’s democracy, stability improve the fighting abilities of their secu- and security,” Mattis said. India has long vied rity forces. BALI: Indonesian President Joko Widodo, center, and his wife Iriana, right, are greeted by children during their visit at a temporary shelter for with arch-rival Pakistan for influence in Asia expert Michael Kugelman of the villagers who were evacuated from their homes on the slope of Mount Agung in Karangasem, Bali, Indonesia. — AP Afghanistan, building dams, roads and a Woodrow Wilson Center was not surprised new parliament in the troubled country. India is avoiding putting troops into the Last year it offered some $1 billion in aid. fight. “The risks of provoking Pakistan are Food, facemasks dispatched It has also trained more than 4,000 perceived to be too great,” Kugelman said. Afghan National Army officers and provided He outlined another, riskier possibility- helicopters to the Afghan Air Force. that India might be more open to ship to Bali as 75,000 flee volcano Unveiling his Afghanistan policy last month, arms to Afghanistan. “New Delhi has rarely Trump angered Pakistan by saying it offered sent large, lethal weaponry to Kabul, other safe haven to “agents of chaos”. “There can than a small fleet of fighter helicopters Indonesian president flies in to visit aid centers be no tolerance of terrorist safe havens,” some months back,” he said. “But it may Mattis said yesterday, without referencing well bite the bullet and contend that the KARANGASEM, Indonesia: Vehicles laden with Indonesian Center for Volcanology and head of logistics at the village of Tana Ampo, Pakistan. “As global leaders, India and the need to strengthen the Afghan security food, facemasks and bedding have been sent to Geological Hazard Mitigation said there has said basic food items like rice, instant noodles, United States resolve to work together to forces outweighs the risk of angering the help more than 75,000 people who have fled a been an increase in volcanic tremors, with a total cooking oil and water were most needed. eradicate this scourge.” Pakistanis.” —AFP volcano on the tourist island of Bali, as the of 564 recorded Monday. Evacuees have packed “This morning we were worried because we Indonesian president flew in to visit crowded aid into temporary shelters or moved in with rela- had limited rice supply, but now we have centers. Mount Agung, 75 kilometers from the tives. Some 2,000 cows have also been evacuat- received more rice stocks from donors,” Subandi resort hub of Kuta, has been rumbling since ed from the flanks of the volcano. said. Indonesia’s national disaster agency has August and threatening to erupt for the first Speaking in Klungkung district, President sent 640,000 face masks, 12,500 mattresses, time since 1963 — a potential blow to the coun- Joko Widodo told evacuees the government 8,400 blankets and 50 tents. The central govern- try’s lucrative tourism industry. would do its best to reduce economic losses ment has a relief fund totaling nearly $150 mil- Increasingly frequent tremors show the incurred during the evacuation. “It is not easy to lion to meet the cost of natural disasters, which molten magma is still rising towards the surface, handle a volcanic eruption because there is no could be tapped in case of an eruption. Officials with the mountain entering a “critical phase”, certainty when it’s going to happen, or if it’s announced the highest possible alert level on said the national disaster mitigation agency. It going to happen at all,” he said. “I ask everybody Friday due to the increasing volcanic activity and said the number fleeing their homes had near Gunung Agung to listen to the officials, the warned people to stay at least nine kilometers increased as fears grow that the mountain could governor, and the mayor’s instruction so we can away from the crater. blow. “The local mitigation agency reported that all minimize the impact of this volcano.” Operators have cancelled trekking tours on until 12 pm yesterday, the number has reached Balinese residents, international NGOs and the mountain but officials have otherwise been 75,673 people, spread across 377 evacuation the central government have begun organizing at pains to assure tourists the island is safe. The centers in nine districts,” said agency spokesman aid. Vehicles loaded with noodles, mineral water airport in Bali’s capital Denpasar, through which Sutopo Purwo Nugroho. and blankets have been sent to the evacuation millions of foreign tourists pass every year, has Around 62,000 people lived in the danger centers, while residents around the island have not been affected, but several countries includ- zone before the evacuations, according to the been collecting donations. Bali’s “sister village” ing Australia and Singapore have issued a travel NEW DELHI: Indian Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, center right, shakes hands agency, but residents just outside the area have program and tradition of communal assistance advisory. Flights to and from the island have not with US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis center, upon his arrival at the Defense Ministry also left as a precaution. “The number is expect- means evacuees have been able to stay in vil- been interrupted but airlines are watching the office, in New Delhi, India, yesterday. —AP ed to continue to rise,” Nugroho said. The lages outside the danger zone. I Ketut Subandi, situation closely. —AFP US, Philippine troops simulate plane hijacking, hostage rescue

MANILA: US and Philippine forces have staged an exer- Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said cise simulating the seizure of an American plane by the drill was in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s wish Islamic State and a hostage rescue, as they look to refo- to refocus the two countries’ 1951 mutual defense pact cus their military alliance towards counter-terrorism. The towards counter-terrorism and disaster relief. Since com- five-day training exercise which ended yesterday was the ing to power, Duterte has sought to weaken ties with the first of its kind and saw more than 400 troops, airport country’s former colonial ruler and pivot towards China police and hostage negotiators create a mock hijack of a and Russia. He previously said military exercises with plane by an IS cell that forced it to land at Clark airport America were a “humiliation” for the Philippines and north of Manila, officials said. threatened to sever defense ties completely. —AFP

NEWS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 Saudi official axed over king image with ‘Star Wars’ icon RIYADH: A Saudi education official has been sacked over Abdullah Al-Shehri, who has gained renown for mixing a schoolbook that accidentally included a doctored pho- pop culture icons into historic photographs. Shehri said tograph of a former ruler sitting next to a “Star Wars” he was surprised to see his photograph end up in the character, triggering online ridicule. The black-and-white school textbook. He told the New York Times that he image shows King Faisal, Saudi Arabia’s third monarch, paired King Faisal and Yoda as they were both intelli- signing the United Nations Charter in 1945, with the gent and because Yoda’s green skin and lightsaber diminutive Jedi master Yoda perched next to him. match the green of the Saudi flag. Saudi Arabia scrambled last week to withdraw the He stressed he had meant no offence to the king, textbook. The government has sacked Mohammad Bin seen widely as the architect of Saudi Arabia’s modern- Atiyah Al-Harithi, the Deputy Education Minister for ization. The error prompted light-hearted banter on Curricula, saying that new versions of the textbook are social media. One Saudi schoolteacher jested that this being printed after the ‘inadvertent error’. “Education error symbolized “payback” after the Education Ministry Minister Ahmed Al-Eissa to terminate the mandate of ... introduced an extra hour of classes in schools earlier Harithi and all those responsible for reviewing and this year. “Remember when Yoda signed the United approving textbooks,” the education ministry said in a Nations charter back in 1945 with Faisal of Saudi, @star- statement Monday. wars? “Saudi Ministry of Education does!” one Twitter The photo was a creation of 26-year-old Saudi artist user said. — AFP

Saudi to allow women to drive in historic... Continued from Page 1 and other activities. But the kingdom appears to be relaxing some norms as part of the Vision 2030 plan. Women were also allowed into a sports stadium-pre- Yesterday’s announcement comes at a crucial time for viously a male-only arena-to watch a musical concert, a Saudi Arabia. The OPEC kingpin is in a battle for regional KUTUPALONG, Bangladesh: Rohingya refugees reach up for relief supplies at the Kutupalong refugee camp. — AFP move that chimes with the government’s “Vision 2030” influence with arch-rival Iran, bogged down in a contro- plan for social and economic reform as the kingdom versial military intervention in neighboring Yemen and prepares for a post-oil era. With more than half the at loggerheads with fellow US Gulf ally Qatar. Mud, misery for refugees as country aged under 25, Prince Mohammed, the archi- The 32-year-old Crown Prince Mohammed is set to tect of Vision 2030, is seen as catering to the aspiration be the first millennial to occupy the throne, although of the youth with an array of entertainment options and the timing of his ascension remains unknown. Already Bangladesh tent city grows promoting more women in the workforce. viewed as the de facto ruler controlling all the major Tight restrictions levers of government, from defense to the economy, KUTUPALONG: Two hours’ walk from the nearest road, they need clean water, they need shelter, they need prop- The gambit to loosen social restrictions, which had the heir apparent is seen as stamping out traces of with no toilets or clean water and little proper shelter, the er health care,” he said. “Perhaps most urgent is to find so far not translated into more political and civil rights, internal dissent before any formal transfer of power vast area of scrubland Bangladesh has set aside for more them proper accommodation as most of them are in seeks to push criticism over a recent political crackdown from his 81-year-old father King Salman. than 400,000 Rohingya refugees is a miserable place to makeshift shelters in areas outside the proper camps.” out of the public eye, some analysts say. Authorities this Meanwhile, United States yesterday welcomed call home. Over the last week, Bangladesh authorities month arrested more than two dozen people, including Saudi Arabia’s decision to join the rest of the world in have cleared hundreds of thousands of newly-arrived Quagmire influential clerics and activists, in what critics decried as allowing women behind the wheel. Washington is a refugees from roadsides and private land near the border Bangladesh has only just given the army clearance to a coordinated crackdown. Ultra-conservative Saudi firm friend of the Saudi kingdom, but has often been with Myanmar where they had set up camp, and ordered start work on constructing an access road to the new Arabia has some of the world’s tightest restrictions on embarrassed by its ally’s conservative religious and them to head for the 2,000-acre site, an extension of the site. Aid agency sources said that last week it was given women, despite ambitious government reforms aimed social attitudes. “We’re happy to hear that,” State largest existing camp at Kutupalong. the funds to build a 20-kilometre road and two bridges. at boosting female employment. Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told But almost nothing has been set up for them there. Until that happens, no aid can be transported in, mean- Under the country’s guardianship system, a male reporters when informed of the Saudi decision. “It’s a Bangladesh has for decades been home to Rohingya ing the refugees have to walk long distances to collect refugees who live in camps run by the United Nations food and water. family member-normally the father, husband or broth- great step in the right direction. We’re just happy today. where they have access to food, sanitation and clean But the heavy rains that have turned the area into a er-must grant permission for a woman’s study, travel A very positive sign.” — Agencies water. But the poor, overpopulated country is no haven for quagmire could bring further delays. No work has yet been the estimated 436,000 Rohingya who have arrived in the done on the construction of 14,000 large shelters that the last month after fleeing violence that the UN has called a government said would be built within 10 days after it allo- Erdogan threatens Kurds “textbook example of ethnic cleansing”. cated the land on September 16. One aid agency source The unprecedented speed and scale of the latest influx said the government was still figuring out what kind of Continued from Page 1 spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said on Monday: “We hope has completely overwhelmed the existing camps. Some of shelters it should build-meaning that the process is unlike- for a unified Iraq to annihilate ISIS (Islamic State) and cer- the new arrivals, who now make up the majority of the ly to start soon. The UN says it is not even clear how many The Kurds held the vote despite threats from Baghdad, tainly a unified Iraq to push back on Iran.” refugees in Bangladesh, have been taken in by relatives people have settled on the new site-further complicating Iraq’s powerful eastern neighbor Iran, and Turkey, the The European Union regretted that the Kurds had already in those camps, others by local families. But many the already daunting task of providing aid. region’s main link to the outside world. “This referendum failed to heed its call not to hold the referendum and said more have had to fend for themselves and have headed to An estimated 60 percent of the new refugees are chil- decision, which has been taken without any consultation, Iraqi unity remained essential in facing the threat from the new site known as the Kutupalong Extension, where dren, but there are no schools for them-even the ones in is treachery,” Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said, Islamic State. The Kremlin signaled its opposition to a tents set up by the UN refugee agency quickly filled up. the established camps have now been occupied by new repeating threats to cut off the pipeline that carries hun- Kurdish breakaway in northern Iraq, saying Moscow Newer arrivals have had to haul bamboo poles and tar- arrivals and desks turned into makeshift beds. Action dreds of thousands of barrels of oil a day from northern backed the territorial integrity of countries in the region. paulins up steep, muddy slopes and across rivers swollen Against Hunger, which is providing hot meals for new Iraq to global markets. Iran banned flights to and from Kurdistan on Sunday, by the recent monsoon rains to build makeshift shelters refugees, reports “alarming” rates of child malnutrition, He warned that Iraqi Kurds would go hungry if Turkey while Baghdad asked foreign countries to stop oil trading that appear unlikely to survive the upcoming cyclone sea- with around six percent of under-fives severely malnour- imposed sanctions and said military and economic meas- with the Kurdish region and demanded that the KRG son. ished. Doctors Without Borders, which has operated in the Those makeshift shelters now stretch as far as the eye Rohingya camps for decades, says existing medical facili- ures could be used against them. hand over control of its international airports and border can see-even though the United Nations says the site, allo- ties are now completely overwhelmed. Iraqi Kurds - part of the largest ethnic group left state- posts with Iran, Turkey and Syria. cated by the government just 10 days ago, is unfit for It has warned that a public health emergency may be less when the Ottoman empire collapsed a century ago - Iranian Major General Yahya Rahim Safavi, a top adviser habitation. Every year, cyclones batter this part of the just around the corner, with refugees having to drink say the referendum acknowledges their contribution in to the Supreme Leader, called on “the four neighboring Bangladesh coast, and the season is just weeks away. As if water from streams or shallow wells contaminated with confronting Islamic State after it overwhelmed the Iraqi countries to block land borders” with the Iraqi Kurdish that wasn’t enough, the area is part of a forest reserve that excreta. Nosima Khatun, 30, says she arrived in Bangladesh army in 2014 and seized control of a third of Iraq. region, according to state news agency IRNA. Tehran sup- is home to elephants. Last week two elderly Rohingya five days ago with her husband and five children after Voters were asked to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to the question: ports Shiite Muslim groups that have ruled or held securi- refugees were trampled to death as they slept in another fleeing her village in Myanmar. Unable to find space at “Do you want the Kurdistan Region and Kurdistani areas ty and government positions in Iraq since the US-led inva- part of the reserve. the established camps, they went to the new site, and now outside the (Kurdistan) Region to become an independ- sion that toppled Saddam Hussein in 2003. Syria, The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo face a four-hour round trip to the main aid distribution ent country?” With 30 million ethnic Kurds scattered embroiled in a devastating civil war and whose Kurds are Grandi, who visited the area over the weekend, said he spots. “It takes more than two hours on foot, but we have across the region, mainly in Iraq, Iran, Turkey and Syria, pressing ahead with their own self-determination, reject- had been struck by “the incredible magnitude” of the no food left where we are staying,” she said, as her baby governments fear the spread of separatism to their own ed the referendum. refugees’ needs. “They need everything-they need food, wriggled in her arms. — AFP Kurdish populations. Iraqi soldiers joined Turkish troops KRG Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani said he hoped for military exercises in southeast Turkey yesterday near to maintain good relations with Turkey. “The referendum the border with Iraq’s Kurdistan region. Turkey also took does not mean independence will happen tomorrow, nor the Rudaw TV channel off its satellite service TurkSat, a are we redrawing borders,” he said in Arbil on Monday. “If UAE tackles forced labor, harassment Turkish broadcasting official said. the ‘yes’ vote wins, we will resolve our issues with Continued from Page 1 It is set to take effect two months after its publication Baghdad peacefully.” British Foreign Secretary Boris in the official gazette. While welcoming the legal change, State department Johnson reiterated London’s opposition to the vote, urg- rights organizations have voiced concerns about its The US State Department said it was “deeply disap- ing “all sides to refrain from provocative statements and domestic staff to endure long hours, unpaid wages enforcement and implementation-like how labor inspec- pointed” by the KRG’s decision to conduct the referendum actions in its aftermath. “The priority must remain the and abuse. The new law covers 19 service work occupa- tions will be conducted. Another area of concern is the but added that Washington’s “historic relationship” with defeat of Daesh and returning stability to liberated areas,” tions, including guards, parking valet workers, gardeners, ‘kafala’ or sponsorship system, which forces foreign work- the people of the Iraqi Kurdistan Region would not he added, a reference to Islamic State militants who con- domestic workers, cooks, and nannies, as well as private ers to seek their employer’s consent to change jobs or change. Asked about the referendum, White House tinue to control parts of Iraq and Syria. — Reuters trainers, nurses, and drivers. leave the country. — Reuters WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 ANALYSIS

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Focus Putting the pieces together: Merkel’s coalition jigsaw

ith six different party blocs in Germany’s parlia- ment after Sunday’s election, conservative WChancellor Angela Merkel faces a jigsaw puzzle of unprecedented complexity to build a coalition. As her cur- rent partners, the Social Democrats (SPD), plan to head into opposition after bruising losses, Merkel’s best prospect for a parliamentary majority is an alliance of her conserva- tives, the pro-business Free Democrats (FDP) and the Greens - the first three-way government since the 1950s. All parties aim to have a new government established by January, but many regard that timetable as optimistic and expect. In 2013, a relatively simple two-party agree- ment with the SPD took almost 100 days. Until the Bundestag, the lower house of parliament, confirms a new coalition, Merkel’s existing government remains in place. Could Japan’s Abe ‘do a Theresa May’? Following is a summary of what happens next:

Lower Saxony election By Richard Carter aloof May, dismissed in one paper as a in Japan. (The ruling party) LDP is a giant ‘Ill-doings’ Parties are likely to be reluctant to make the compro- “dead woman walking.” British voters were among dwarves. It would take a major Abe’s opponents have cried foul, with mises necessary for a coalition before Lower Saxony’s snap eeking to capitalize on a fractured and also furious that May called an election scandal to derail the Abe express,” Kingston Kazunori Yamanoi, parliamentary head of regional election on Oct 15, for fear of alienating support- weak opposition and a healthy lead in after repeatedly insisting this was not on said. “He may not retain his super majority the main opposition Democratic Party, say- ers in a key state. Sthe polls, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe the cards. Some experts warned Abe could but given the fractured and unprepared ing it was “unthinkable” for the premier to stunned Japan by gambling on a snap elec- face a similar backlash. Yoel Sano, head of state of Japan’s opposition parties, it’s hard call a snap vote “for his own reasons... at a New parliament convenes tion more than a year before it was due. Global Political and Security Risk from BMI to see much risk for a commanding majori- time when Japanese citizens are frightened The new Bundestag has until Oct. 24 to convene, by The parallels with another world leader- Research, said Japan’s leader may have ty.” The conservative LDP and its junior by the North Korean missile crisis.” Others which time a new president or speaker must be chosen. Britain’s Theresa May-are striking. In April, “underestimated the electorate’s potential coalition partner Komeito enjoy a so-called view the election as a way of deflecting The six blocs must also elect their parliamentary group May caught the country off guard by call- to switch to the opposition” and could lose super majority of two-thirds of the 475 attention from a series of scandals that leaders and other officials by then. The current president of ing an election, hoping to take advantage support if voters see the vote as a ploy to House of Representatives. This is crucial if have rocked Abe in recent months, includ- the Bundestag, Norbert Lammert of Merkel’s Christian of a 20-point poll lead over the opposition cling onto power. Abe wishes to press forward with a consti- ing allegations of favoritism to a friend in a Democratic Union (CDU), is not up for re-election. One Labor party and secure her own mandate “The Japanese public may view it as a tutional overhaul to strengthen the business deal-which the prime minister to take Britain out of the European Union. cynical and opportunistic move, especially Japanese military in the face of the North strongly denies. “Both leaders called a snap election at a given the severity of the North Korean cri- Korean threat. Another reason Abe may be “I think this will be a general election to time their public support was not going to sis,” said Sano. Polls show voters generally rushing ahead with an election is to cut the cover up his ill doings, to move people’s get better,” said Sadafumi Kawato, professor approve of Abe’s hawkish policy on ground under the popular mayor of Tokyo, attention away from the scandals,” said one of political science at the University of Pyongyang-which fired two missiles over Yuriko Koike, who unveiled a new party voter, 33-year-old call-centre employee Tokyo. But in May’s case, the gamble back- Japan in the space of a month-and he is “Kibo no To” (Party of Hope), just hours Mayumi Chikagawa. But a year after 2016 fired spectacularly. After a campaign widely counting on the electorate seeing him as a before the vote was called. Here again produced vote surprises from Brexit to the seen as lackluster and where May came steady pair of hands. there are parallels with Britain as some election of Donald Trump, Temple across as distant and robotic, she lost 13 commentators believed May wanted to University analyst Kingston said there was seats and was forced into a controversial ‘Giant among dwarves’ fight Corbyn rather than the well-liked little chance of a repeat in Japan. There deal with Northern Ireland’s ultra-conserva- Jeff Kingston, Director of Asian Studies Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, widely seen was “not much enthusiasm for Abe or his tive DUP party to cling onto a majority. at the Temple University Japan, said Abe’s as a future Labour leader. “Koike annihilat- policies,” acknowledged the expert. “Half of Meanwhile, Labor leader Jeremy Corbyn gamble was more likely to pay off as he ed the LDP in Tokyo but taking that move- those who support him say they do so BERLIN: German Chancellor Angela Merkel (cen- defied predictions of an electoral melt- faces a weaker opposition than May did ment national will not be easy and they are because there is no alternative. And that’s ter), leader of the conservative Christian down and campaigned strongly, being with Corbyn. “Unlike in Britain with Labor, not ready,” said Kingston. why Abe will win. Disaffected voters have Democratic Union (CDU), shakes hands prior to a seen as close to the voters in contrast to an there is no opposition worthy of the name no place to go.”—AFP meeting with the CDU/CSU parliamentary group in Berlin yesterday. — AFP option that has been floated is for Wolfgang Schaeuble, 75 and finance minister since 2009, to become Bundestag Centuries of friction between Catalonia and Spain president to make way for one of the likely junior coalition partners to take the finance portfolio. By Adrien Vicente took Catalonia months before the war end- the leader in his cell were widely shared, troops of the Spanish King Philip V, the ed in April 1939, sparking a mass exodus to galvanizing Catalans. Which is “exactly what grandson of France’s Louis XIV. After this Exploratory talks he crisis pitting Spain’s government neighboring France. the Spanish government is trying to avoid battle, Catalonia, which until then had its Traditionally, the winner of the election invites potential against leaders in Catalonia over an “The first thing Franco did in Catalonia now,” says the historian, pointing out that own institutions and laws as part of the coalition partners to exploratory talks to establish if they Tindependence referendum banned by was to abolish the Generalitat,” the Spanish authorities have so far spared sep- kingdom, was “subjected to the laws of (the have sufficient common ground to work together. Keen to Madrid is but the latest episode of cen- autonomous regional government, says aratist leaders and have instead detained Crown of Castile),” says Culla. Andrew maximize her room for maneuver, Merkel has said she turies of friction between this region and Jordi Canal, a historian at the Paris-based lower-level-if key-members of the team Dowling, a Catalonia specialist at Cardiff wants to invite the SPD as well as the Greens and the FPD, central authorities. The separatists who cur- School of Advanced Studies in the Social organizing the vote. Exiled in France, University, says Catalans did lose “their even though the SPD’s top leaders have already said they rently govern the wealthy region in north- Sciences.”The trauma of 1939, of exile, is Companys was denounced by the Nazis in rights and privileges but it was not a want to go into opposition. All parties have ruled out work- eastern Spain often make references to the very present” in Catalonia, adds Joan 1940 and handed over to Spain where he nationalist war.” “The Catalans were pun- ing with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, short-lived 1931-1939 republic crushed by Baptista Culla, a historian at the was executed. “It’s the fundamental image ished because they backed the wrong side while the conservatives rule out working with the radical general Francisco Franco after a three-year Autonomous University of Barcelona. Even of the martyr president,” says Culla. of the war,” supporting archduke Charles of Left party, which has its origins in the East German civil war. before this during the fledgling republic, Austria during the 1701-14 European war Communist Party. If talks with the FPD and Greens fail, Last week, after a wave of detentions the Generalitat’s president Lluis Companys Way back when for the Spanish throne. pressure could grow on the SPD to revisit its decision. and police seizures of items such as ballots proclaimed a “Catalan state in the Spanish But Catalonia’s history is marked by sym- He says the first Catalan nationalist party However, this would make the AfD the largest opposition aimed at stopping the referendum on federal republic” in 1934 to oppose the bols dating from far earlier in time. The only emerged in 1901. “The Catalans per- party, with a privileged role in parliamentary committees - October 1, Catalan independence support- conservatives who governed in Madrid. Diada, the region’s annual holiday on something the rest of the political establishment will want ceived themselves as an economically ers shouted “No pasaran!” (Spanish for “they With little support, he resisted “six or September 11 which since 2012 has been to avoid. The Lower Saxony election may mean the advanced, culturally advanced people and exploratory talks will be slower to start than usual. shall not pass”), the anti-fascist slogan of seven hours, and he came out, under arrest, the scene of big separatist rallies, com- looked at Spain as a kind of backwards, illit- the bloody conflict. Franco’s troops only his hands up,” says Canal. But the photos of memorates the fall of Barcelona in 1714 to erate society,” says Dowling, at a time when Coalition talks Spain was declining with the loss of its last Once exploratory talks have been completed, the par- colonies. For Canal, this feeling came from ties that have agreed in principle to work together hold the fact that the Catalans had their own formal talks to thrash out a government program that they language, civil law, and “a much stronger are committed to implementing. This process, which industrial past and present than else- involves painstaking policy negotiation, can take over a where.” It was around that time that the month, even when only two parties are involved. If party Catalan hymn was created, with lyrics members demand a vote on the program, further delays pointing to a peasant revolt in the 17th can occur. After the 2013 election, it took more than four century against the presence of soldiers weeks for formal coalition talks to begin, and they lasted belonging to the crown. another month. Merkel’s new government was confirmed on Dec 17 after SPD members approved the coalition deal, Rise of separatism almost three months after the Sept 22 election.— Reuters But the role of these symbols in the rise since 2010 of separatism, which had until then been marginal in Catalonia, divides historians. “The current pro-independence All articles appearing on these movement is buoyed by what happened pages are the personal opinion of over the past seven or eight years,” says Culla. The Catalans were angered in 2010 the writers. Kuwait Times takes no when Spain’s Constitutional Court can- responsibility for views expressed celled a key part of an official text that gave them bigger autonomy and the status of therein. Kuwait Times invites “nation,” and Madrid’s subsequent refusal readers to voice their opinions. to negotiate. Canal believes it stems more from the Please send submissions via email role of “schools and media” in Catalonia, which have “convinced the Catalans, espe- to: [email protected] or cially the younger ones, that they are mem- via snail mail to PO Box 1301 bers of a nation that deserves to be a state.” Culla, though, doesn’t think schools have Safat, Kuwait. The editor reserves systematically promoted nationalism. “In the right to edit any submission Catalonia, there are tens of thousands of MADRID: Spanish flags hang from the windows of a residential building in Madrid yesterday. Patriotic protests have multiplied in teachers,” he says. “To think they are robots as necessary. Spain five days before the banned referendum on the independence of Catalonia. Polls show Catalans are split on the issue of and that they are all radical separatists is independence, but a large majority want to vote in a legitimate referendum to settle the matter. —AFP grotesque.”— AFP WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 SPORTS

Fleetwood to miss British Ex-Newcastle chairman Las Palmas coach Masters for child’s birth Shepherd dies aged 76 Marquez quits

NEWCASTLE: Race to Dubai leader Tommy Fleetwood will miss this week’s LONDON: Former Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd, a pivotal BARCELONA: Las Palmas coach Manolo Marquez has become the third British Masters in Newcastle for the possible birth of his child, while figure in the club’s 1990s success, has died aged 76, his family La Liga manager to leave his job this season, calling a surprise news con- Andrew Johnston pulled out injured yesterday. Fleetwood, 26, has elected announced yesterday. Shepherd was Newcastle chairman for 10 years ference yesterday to announce his resignation after losing four of the to stay with his partner and manager Clare, who is soon to give birth to the from 1997 and eventually sold his share of the club to current owner first six games of the campaign. Las Palmas are 15th in the standings couple’s child. “I wanted to give myself every chance of play- Mike Ashley. “Freddy Shepherd sadly passed away peacefully at his with six points and Marquez’s last game in charge was a 2-0 ing this week, but being there at the birth of your child is a home last night,” his family said in a statement. “At this difficult time home defeat by Leganes on Sunday. Marquez had never special moment in anyone’s life and I would not want to the family have asked that their privacy be respected.” Tyneside-born coached a top-flight side before landing the job in July miss it,” said Fleetwood. “I look forward to returning to Shepherd became a Newcastle director in 1992 and served as vice- after leading the club’s reserve team to promotion. “We playing soon and hopefully I can have a strong end to chairman to John Hall as the club finished Premier League runners-up all thought it was the best option at the time and I would the season and compete for the Race to Dubai title.” in both 1996 and 1997. Shepherd played a key role in the appoint- agree to it 80 times out of 100 but as the days went by I Fleetwood, who has won twice this season, currently ment of Kevin Keegan as manager in the early 1990s, a move that began to feel out of place,” Marquez told reporters. “We leads the Race to Dubai by nearly one million points helped transform the then struggling second tier side into a top- can’t deny that everything happened very quickly and in a from Spain’s Sergio Garcia, who is also playing the tourna- flight force. Under Keegan’s management, Newcastle went toe to toe hurry. I had the sensation that I couldn’t transmit what I ment hosted by former world number one Lee Westwood at with Manchester United in the Premier League title race before losing wanted to the players but that is more my problem Close House. —AFP out to Alex Ferguson’s team. —AFP than theirs.” —Reuters USOC chief backs athlete protests

PARK CITY: Athletes should feel free to “That was a seminal moment not only express their political opinions during next for the Olympic movement but the US February’s Winter Games in Pyeongchang Olympic team and we recognized them last despite strict Olympic rules barring such year by bringing them to the White House,” demonstrations, the head of the United he said. Several Olympic hopefuls backed States Olympic Committee (USOC) said on the protesting NFL players but said on Monday. Monday that it was too soon to say what Referring to Sunday’s protest by over they may do if they find themselves in a 100 NFL players, who went down on one similar position. knee during the national anthem to protest “I respect what those guys did and I do against racial inequality, USOC CEO Scott believe there is a lot of room for social Blackmun said athletes had a right to air change. As a person of color I do think it’s their opinions. “The athletes you see something that we need to address,” said protesting are protesting because they love Elana Meyers, an American bobsled pilot their country, not because they don’t,” he and two-time Winter Olympic medalist. said. “So we fully support that our athletes But at the Olympics, the only time you and everybody else to express themselves.” get to hear your national anthem is if you Blackmun acknowledged that the situation win a gold medal. “So it is going to come is trickier given the International Olympic down to a game time decision.” Julia Committee charter, which specifically bans Mancuso, an alpine skier and four-time “demonstrations of political, religious or Olympic medalist, also supports the NFL racial propaganda” at Olympic venues. players but said the dynamics are different “We have a little bit of a different state for Olympic athletes. of play when it comes to the Olympic “When it comes to the Olympics, I like to Games.” Blackmun praised the 1968 think that it’s a special event not just like Olympic protest by American track and the NFL or pro sports teams that compete field athletes Tommie Smith and John every weekend. For us it’s every four years,” Carlos, who gave a black power salute from she said. the podium in Mexico City, sparking con- “I’m proud of athletes that stand up for troversy. Smith later stated that the gesture what they believe in... but I also like to think was a “human rights salute”. of us all as very patriotic athletes.” —Reuters

GLENDALE: This file photo taken on September 25, 2017 shows Quarterback Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys diving into the endzone to score on a ten yard rushing touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals during the second quarter of the NFL game at the University of Phoenix China refuses visa to Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. — AFP

elderly India runner NFL NEW DELHI: A 101-year-old Indian runner England to America to New Zealand but said yesterday that China has refused to never has our visa been rejected,” Singh, a grant her a visa to participate in the Asian permanent resident of Canada, told AFP. Masters Athletics Championships, robbing “The Chinese Embassy said we don’t Cowboys rebound from her of a potential medal. Man Kaur, dubbed have a personal invite but we carried a let- the “miracle from Chandigarh” after win- ter from the Indian Masters Athletics ning the 100-metres gold at the World Association which should have been Masters Games in Auckland in April, had enough. “Don’t people go to China as loss to topple Cardinals been training hard for the competition at tourists, do they need some invite? What home in Punjab state. problem can a 101-year-old and a 79-year- PHOENIX: The Dallas Cowboys proved “I felt very bad when my visa was reject- old create in China apart from competing Monday they can take a punch and deliver NFL Results/Standings ed,” she told AFP. “Wherever we used to go in the event,” he added. one too. Dallas overcame a slow start but Singh and his mother will be travelling to we would come back winners and even this eventually looked like their old selves again, time around I was confident of victory. “But Toronto next month where Kaur will be Dallas Cowboys 28 Arizona Cardinals 17 bouncing back from a crushing loss the week it’s not the end of the road. I will continue bestowed with the ‘Lifetime achievement American Football Conference National Football Conference training and look forward to competing in award’ during a function. Kaur is one of the before to defeat the Arizona Cardinals 28-17 AFC East NFC East future events,” she added. Kaur, who took nominees for the coveted Laureus World on Monday. W L T OTL PF PA PCT Philadelphia 2 1 0 0 77 68 .667 up athletics eight years ago at the tender Sports Awards 2017 in the new category - Dak Prescott threw for two touchdown New England 2 1 0 0 99 95 .667 age of 93, was looking to compete in the ‘Best Sporting Moment of the Year’. Singh passes and going airborne for another score Washington 2 1 0 0 71 60 .667 Buffalo 2 1 0 0 50 37 .667 100m, 200m, shot put and javelin cate- said “a healthy diet and strict training regi- as the Cowboys snapped a four-game losing Dallas 2 1 0 0 64 62 .667 Miami 1 1 0 0 25 37 .500 gories in the China Masters in Rugao. men” kept the mother-son duo in good skid to Arizona. Dallas needed some good NY Giants 0 3 0 0 37 70 0 NY Jets 1 2 0 0 52 72 .333 She had no prior running experience shape as they eye more medals in next year’s news after being humbled 42-17 by the NFC North AFC North before her 79-year-old son Gurdev Singh, World Masters Athletics Championships in Denver Broncos the week before. Minnesota 2 1 0 0 72 62 .667 Pittsburgh 2 1 0 1 64 50 .667 who said his Chinese visa was also refused, Spain. “Our body is God’s gift and if we don’t “We showed the character of this team,” Green Bay 2 1 0 0 67 67 .667 Baltimore 2 1 0 0 51 54 .667 suggested she join him in competing on preserve this, our next generation will be Detroit 2 1 0 0 85 63 .667 Prescott said. “Last week we got hit in the Cleveland 0 3 0 0 56 76 0 the international masters games circuit. weak,” he said. The Chinese embassy in New Chicago 1 2 0 0 47 69 .333 mouth pretty good. We did the things we Cincinnati 0 3 0 1 33 60 0 “We have travelled all over the world, from Delhi did not comment on the case. — AFP NFC South needed to do to get the win tonight.” Ezekiel AFC South Atlanta 3 0 0 0 87 66 1.000 Elliott finished with 80 yards and also ran for a Tennessee 2 1 0 0 86 69 .667 Carolina 2 1 0 0 45 40 .667 touchdown as Dallas improved to 2-1 on the Jacksonville 2 1 0 0 89 51 .667 Tampa Bay 1 1 0 0 46 41 .500 season. It was also a rebound performance for Indianapolis 1 2 0 1 53 90 .333 New Orleans 1 2 0 0 73 78 .333 Elliott who had a career low eight yards Houston 1 2 0 0 53 74 .333 against the Broncos. AFC west NFC West In Monday’s victory, the Cowboys looked Kansas City 3 0 0 0 93 57 1.000 LA Rams 2 1 0 0 107 75 .667 more like the team that went 13-3 last season Oakland 2 1 0 0 81 63 .667 Seattle 1 2 0 0 48 59 .333 and started 2017 off with lopsided 19-3 win Denver 2 1 0 0 82 64 .667 Arizona 1 2 0 0 56 76 .333 over the New York Giants. Prescott opened LA Chargers 0 3 0 0 48 67 0 San Francisco 0 3 0 0 51 76 0 the scoring for the Cowboys with a just over a minute left in the first half by keeping the snap and running 10 yards before somersault- JONES TAKES A KNEE Sparks, an African American, also wanted to ing into the end zone. Prescott got hit at the The Cowboys were joined by team owner send a message of unity as she wrote on her last second and launched into the air. Jerry Jones in kneeling down at mid-field, but left hand ‘31:8-9’-a Bible verse that reads: “I just told myself I had to jump in the air. I they chose to do so before former “American “Speak up for those who cannot speak for was hoping I didn’t helicopter so I was glad I Idol” winner Jordin Sparks sang the national themselves, for the rights of all who are desti- went straight over,” he said. Elliott capped the anthem in front of a crowd of 65,100 at the tute.” The Cardinals also locked arms during the scoring with an eight-yard touchdown run. University of Phoenix Stadium. anthem, but nobody appeared to take a knee The score was tied 7-7 after two quarters that The Cowboys said they wanted to take a or raise a clenched fist. US President Donald had the Cardinals lamenting the fact they knee as a statement of equality and a represen- Trump has been locked in a days-long feud weren’t ahead. Dallas gained just 57 total tation of unity but without protesting “The with NFL players, owners and league officials yards in the first half. Star-Spangled Banner.” A smattering of Arizona over the symbolic protests aimed at drawing AUCKLAND: In this photograph taken on April 24, 2017, Indian runner Man Kaur, 101, Before the game, the Cowboys and fans booed the Cowboys when they took a attention to racial injustice. On Friday, he called celebrates after competing in the 100m sprint in the 100+ age category at the World Cardinals added their voices to the wave of knee. As a further indication of just how divi- protesting players “sons of bitches” who should Masters Games at Trusts Arena in Auckland on April 24, 2017. A 101-year-old Indian protests against racism and division across sive the issue has become, others cheered be fired. Jones lives in the Republican strong- runner said yesterday that China has refused to grant her a visa to participate in the the United States as the players collectively loudly when a giant US flag was unfurled and hold of Texas and was one of seven NFL owners Asian Masters Athletics Championships, robbing her of a potential medal. —AFP took a knee. covered almost the entire pitch. to donate to Trump’s inauguration. —AFP

RUGBY World Rugby slams calls for tackling ban in schools

LONDON: World Rugby chiefs have Removing collisions from school rugby “World Rugby and its member unions rates increase with age and yet the ty to mitigate that risk as far as possible. slammed a controversial study that claims is likely to “reduce and mitigate the risk of take player safety and welfare very seri- research quoted mixes 9-12 with 18-20 “That is why rugby for young people at tackling and scrums should be banned in injury” in pupils, they said. The ously and proactively pursue an evi- age groups. schools or clubs exists in different forms, schools. Allyson Pollock and Graham researchers called on the UK chief medical dence-based approach to reduce the risk “Contrary to Pollock’s opinion, the sys- both contact and non-contact, and signif- Kirkwood from the Institute of Health at officers to advise the UK Government to of injury at all levels,” a World Rugby state- tematic published studies where injury icant work has been undertaken over a Newcastle University argue that most remove “harmful contact” from the game. ment read. has been properly defined and moni- number of years to develop a structured injuries in youth rugby occur due to the The article comes at a time when issue “The continual claims made by Prof tored, suggest the risk for pre-teens is not progression. collision elements of the game. of concussions in professional rugby is Pollock are not based on like-for-like unacceptably high compared to other “The responsibility for every sport is to Writing in the British Medical Journal become a major concern. But World injury statistics and her extreme and popular sports. manage the risk as best as possible ban- (BMJ), they said that ministers should “put Rugby hit back at the claims in a strongly alarmist conclusions are simply not sup- “Of course, as with all sports there is ning the tackle supports reducing activity the interests of the child before those of world statement that defended their ported by the data. “For example, it is well some risk of injury associated with rugby and reducing activity is associated with corporate professional rugby unions”. sport’s approach to safety issues. documented that, for most sports, injury and governing bodies have a responsibili- risk.” —AFP WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 SPORTS Depleted S Africa not taking Bangladesh lightly

DHAKA: South Africa will be hoping to four-match series in England this year of each other’s games and how we domestic four-day series in order to get the world. Opening batsman Tamim ease new coach Ottis Gibson into his job and still without key elements of their operate. I am excited to go with him,” match practice. “I don’t want to get into Iqbal is expected to be fit despite not in a two-test series against Bangladesh pace attack, there will be no air of com- Markham told reporters. For Gibson the any thinking that Bangladesh is an easy batting on the last day of the warm-up where the home side defend a one- placency about the home team. injury toll among the bowlers is a pri- series,” he added. match against a South African Invitation sided record against their opponents Chris Morris, Vernon Philander and mary concern. “That’s a problem straight Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al XI. He strained a thigh muscle on the first but are light on fast bowlers and still tin- Dale Steyn remain sidelined, leaving away. To win test matches, you need to Hasan misses out after he asked for time day of the match. The first test in kering with their top order. Morne Morkel and Kagiso Rabada to take 20 wickets and having your best off to recover from exhaustion. Shakib Potchefstroom, which starts on Thursday, South Africa have won by an innings lead a thin seam attack while 22-year- four fast bowlers fit and ready gives you has played 50 international matches will mark the introduction of a number of in each of their four previous home tests old Aiden Markham will make his debut a chance to do that,” he said. across all formats of the game since new rules to the game including umpires against Bangladesh and not lost to as the latest opening partner for Dean Gibson asked all the test players to 2016, and plays for Twenty20 teams in being able to send players off for serious them away either. But after losing a Elgar. “We have a good understanding play in last week’s first round of the multiple franchise-based leagues around offences. —Reuters Players face sending-off, umpires to get bat gauge

NEW DELHI: Players could be sent off for mitted length and width of bats remains the first time in cricket, starting with Test unchanged but the edges cannot be more matches in South Africa and the United than 40mm thick and the overall depth is Arab Emirates this week, as new regula- limited to 67mm. Umpires will use a new tions come into force. Changes governing gauge to check legality. umpire referrals and bat sizes will also The ICC said all changes “will be applica- come into force Thursday when South ble across all (three) formats”. “Most of the Africa host Bangladesh and Sri Lanka play changes to the ICC playing conditions are Pakistan in Abu Dhabi, said the sport’s gov- being made as a result of changes to the erning body the International Cricket laws of cricket that have been announced Council. The Decision Review System (DRS) by the MCC,” ICC general manager Geoff — in which a TV umpire reviews decisions Allardyce said in a statement. “We have just made by umpires on the field-will be completed a workshop with the umpires to allowed in Twenty20 internationals after its ensure they understand all of the changes success in Test and one-day matches. and we are now ready to introduce the new Under the new rules, a player can now playing conditions to international match- be sent off for the rest of the match for seri- es.” If a team refers an umpire’s decision to ous misconduct. This could include threat- the TV umpire and the on-field decision ening to assault an umpire, making inap- remains unchanged because the DRS propriate and deliberate physical contact shows “umpire’s call”, the team will not lose with an umpire, assaulting a player or any that review. But teams will now have only other person and any other act of violence. two unsuccessful reviews for the entire To maintain the balance between bat innings of a Test. Previously the unsuccess- and ball, there are new restrictions on the ful reviews were replenished after the first size of bat edges and its thickness. The per- 80 overs. — AFP

CRICKET England drop Stokes after assault arrest

LONDON: England all-rounder Ben “Ben Stokes and Alex Hales will not be ST LOUIS: Jon Jay #30 of the Chicago Cubs hits an RBI single against the St Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium on Monday in St Louis, Missouri. —AFP Stokes has been arrested on suspicion of available for today’s (Wednesday’s) one- causing actual bodily harm in Bristol and day International match against West dropped for today’s fourth one-day Indies at The Oval. international against West Indies. The Judge sets HR record 26-year-old Durham star was arrested HELD OVERNIGHT early on Monday in the Clifton district of “Stokes was arrested in the early hours the city and released under investiga- of Monday morning, 25 September, fol- tion-without charge-the England and lowing an incident in Bristol,” the former as Yankees beat Royals Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced England captain added as he continued Tuesday. Both Stokes and England to read out from the statement. opening batsman Alex Hales, 28, who “He was held overnight and released injury that sidelined him for 13 games, and six games behind idle Minnesota for the sec- was with him on Sunday night, will miss under investigation-without charge — NEW YORK: Aaron Judge broke Mark Betts came out with pain in his left wrist. ond AL wild card with six to play. Only one of the game at The Oval. late on Monday and will not join the McGwire’s Major League Baseball record for Ryan Goins hit a solo homer and Teoscar the eight runs in the Astros’ fourth was A statement issued by Avon and team in London. “Hales, who was with home runs by a rookie, hitting a pair for the Hernandez had a two-run double for the earned. Somerset police said: “We were called to Stokes on Sunday night, did not train second straight day to raise his total to 50 and Blue Jays. Brett Anderson (2-2) allowed three a disorder in Queens Road, Clifton, at yesterday morning and has returned vol- lead the New York Yankees over the Kansas runs in five innings. Red Sox lefty Drew NATIONALS 3, PHILLIES 1 around 2:35am (0135 GMT) on Monday. untarily to Bristol today to help police City Royals 11-3 Monday. The 6-foot-7, 25- Pomeranz (16-6) had his shortest start of the Michael Taylor homered and A.J. Cole “A 27-year-old man was found to have with their enquiries. year-old slugger tied the mark with a two-run season, giving up five runs and seven hits in allowed one run while pitching into the sixth suffered facial injuries and was taken to “You will understand that we cannot drive to right-center off Jakob Junis (8-3) in two innings. He had only lost once in his last inning as Washington defeated Philadelphia. the Bristol Royal Infirmary for treatment. offer further detail at this stage but will the third inning that put New York ahead 3-0. 18 outings. Roberto Osuna got three outs for The NL East champion Nationals extended “A 26-year-old man was arrested on sus- provide any updates when we can.” His solo shot to left against Trevor Cahill in the his 38th save. their franchise record with 50 road wins. picion of causing actual bodily harm Strauss, in a subsequent interview with seventh made it 7-3 and earned him a rare Bryce Harper remained out of Washington’s and has since been released under Sky Sports News, confirmed Stokes and curtain call. Judge has 13 home runs in WHITE SOX 4, ANGELS 2 lineup with flu-like symptoms. The team had investigation.” The police statement also Hales remained available for Ashes selec- September and six in five games, and he is James Shields tossed seven strong innings said it was possible he would return Monday asked anyone who was in the Clifton tion, saying: “The selectors have been second in the majors behind Miami’s and Nicky Delmonico hit a two-run double as from a knee injury that’s kept him out since Triangle area in the early hours of instructed to select the Ashes squad Giancarlo Stanton, who has 57. Judge has four Chicago damaged Los Angeles’ slim playoff Aug. 12. Odubel Herrera homered for the last- Monday “who saw any part of this inci- based on form and fitness.” Stokes was multihomer games this month and seven this hopes. With six games remaining, the Angels place Phillies. Cole (3-5) struck out five and dent” to contact them. arrested for obstructing police on a night season. McGwire hit 49 homers for Oakland in trail Minnesota by five games for the second walked two. Sean Doolittle worked a perfect The incident happened following out in 2011 and ultimately cautioned. 1987. Greg Bird added a two-run homer in the AL wild card. Mike Trout hit his 30th homer for ninth for his 21st save in 21 chances with the England’s 124-run win in the third ODI- The following year saw him sent home sixth. Gary Sanchez followed Judge in the sev- the Angels, who have dropped seven of eight. Nationals since being acquired from Oakland where Stokes made 73 — in southwest from an England Lions or A-team tour in enth with back-to-back homers for the third Shields (5-7) allowed two runs and four hits. on July 16. Aaron Nola (12-11) allowed city Bristol on Sunday that put them 2- Australia, alongside team-mate Matt time this year, raising his total to 33. CC Juan Minaya got three outs for his seventh Taylor’s two-run homer in the second but 0 up in a five-match series against Coles, for repeatedly flouting curfews Sabathia (13-5) took a 6-0 lead into the sev- save. Ricky Nolasco (6-15) allowed four runs, otherwise pitched well. West Indies. and bans on late-night drinking,. enth, when Salvador Perez hit a two-run two earned, in five-plus innings. Today’s fixture at The Oval takes place Stokes was also sidelined from the homer and Mike Moustakas chased the left- BRAVES 9, METS 2, 1st game just hours after England are due to unveil 2014 World Twenty20 after breaking his hander by going deep four pitches later. ASTROS 11, RANGERS 2 METS 3, BRAVES 2, 2nd game their squad for the Ashes tour of hand as a result of punching a dressing- Sabathia improved to 9 -0 in 11 starts this year Marwin Gonzalez had four hits and three Seth Lugo pitched two-hit ball over six Australia at the south London ground. room locker in Barbados in frustration at after Yankees losses. New York moved within RBIs as AL West champion Houston put Texas innings and Travis d’Arnaud hit a record-set- ECB England cricket director Andrew a run of poor form. In an interview with four games of AL East-leading Boston with six on the brink of elimination in the wild-card ting homer for New York in the nightcap of a Strauss, confirmed that both Durham The Times magazine published on to play. Kansas City was pushed to the brink of race. Astros second baseman Jose Altuve, the doubleheader split. D’Arnaud hit his solo shot star Stokes-a Test regular-and Saturday, Stokes was asked if his previ- postseason elimination. American League leader with 199 hits and a in the eighth inning. It was the 219th homer Nottinghamshire batsman Hales, a fringe ous experience meant he no longer .348 batting average, left in the eighth inning for the Mets, a franchise season mark. The candidate who played the last of his 13 drank alcohol on evenings out during a CUBS 10, CARDINALS 2 after he was hit by a 95 mph fastball. The sparse crowd at Citi Field jeered when the Tests 11 months ago, will be considered five-day Test match, “Yeah, why not?,” he Addison Russell hit a three-run double in team said X-rays were negative and Altuve home run apple didn’t rise after d’Arnaud’s for the Ashes squad on cricketing replied. “We’re grown men, go out for the first inning, then made a food run for a fan had a bruised forearm. Gonzalez had two hits homer, then cheered when it finally came out grounds alone by the selectors. Strauss, dinner, have a few pints. “I’m 26, not 14. I in enemy territory while Chicago beat St. and scored twice in an eight-run fourth, of its bin three batters later. Lugo (7-5) struck reading from an ECB statement to don’t have to drink Diet Cokes with din- Louis to move within a victory of clinching its including a two-run single that chased starter out seven and didn’t walk anybody. Jeurys reporters at The Oval on Tuesday, said: ner.” —AFP second straight NL Central title. Kris Bryant and Javier Baez homered for the Cubs, who Andrew Cashner (10-11). Gonzalez later hit his Familia got his fifth save and second since can wrap up the division with a win yesterday 23rd homer, a solo shot in the sixth. Collin returning from surgery to repair a blood clot against the Cardinals or a loss by Milwaukee McHugh (4-2) struck out six while throwing in his right arm. Max Fried (1-1) gave up two against Cincinnati. Russell helped the Cubs 112 pitches in five innings. The right-hander is runs over 5 1/3 innings for Atlanta. In the first get to starter Luke Weaver (7-2) early, then 15-0 with a 2.94 ERA in 19 starts in September game, Lucas Sims (3-5) turned in his second made some friends out of rival fans. After div- or October during his four seasons with the strong performance since returning to ing into the stands chasing a foul ball down Astros. Texas (76-80), division champs the past Atlanta’s rotation, allowing two runs and five the third-base line and spilling a fan’s tray of two years, had an early 2-0 lead before losing hits over a career-high 6 2/3 innings. Chris chips, Russell emerged from the dugout a few its fourth straight game. The Rangers dropped Flexen (3-5) took the loss. — AP innings later with a plate of nachos and deliv- ered it to the fan. Russell stopped to take a selfie before heading back to play shortstop. MLB Results/Standings The loss eliminated St. Louis from NL Central contention and dimmed the Cardinals’ wild- LA Dodgers 9, San Diego 3; Seattle 7, Oakland 1; San Francisco 9, Arizona 2; Miami 5, Colorado 4; Chicago Cubs 10, card hopes. Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina St. Louis 2; Chicago White Sox 4, LA Angels 2; Houston 11, Texas 2; NY Mets 3, Atlanta 2; Toronto 6, Boston 4; was taken out of the game in the seventh Washington 3, Philadelphia 1; Atlanta 9, NY Mets 2; NY Yankees 11, Kansas City 3. after he took two foul balls off his mask. St. American League National League Louis announced he is in concussion protocol. Eastern Division Eastern Division Jon Lester (12-8) allowed one run in six W L PCT GB Washington 95 61 .609 - innings. Chicago is 11-2 in its last 13 games. Boston 91 65 .583 - Miami 74 82 .474 21 Weaver gave up eight runs in three innings. NY Yankees 87 69 .558 4 Atlanta 71 85 .455 24 He had won seven consecutive starts, the Bay 76 80 .487 15 NY Mets 67 90 .427 28.5 Baltimore 75 82 .478 16.5 longest by a Cardinals rookie since Ted Wilks Philadelphia 62 95 .395 33.5 Toronto 74 83 .471 17.5 Central Division in 1944. Central Division Chicago Cubs 88 68 .564 - Cleveland 98 58 .628 - Milwaukee 82 74 .526 6 BLUE JAYS 6, RED SOX 4 Minnesota 82 74 .526 16 Kansas City 76 80 .487 22 St. Louis 81 75 .519 7 Josh Donaldson homered and drove in Pittsburgh 71 85 .455 17 three runs, powering Toronto past AL East- Chicago White Sox 64 92 .410 34 Detroit 62 94 .397 36 Cincinnati 66 90 .423 22 leading Boston. Boston’s six-game winning Western Division Western Division streak was snapped and its magic number to LONDON: In this Thursday, Sept 7, 2017 file photo, England’s Ben Stokes holds up Houston 96 60 .615 - LA Dodgers 100 57 .637 - clinch a second straight division title LA Angels 77 79 .494 19 Arizona 90 67 .573 10 the ball after taking his sixth wicket on the first day of the third Test match Texas 76 80 .487 20 Colorado 84 73 .535 16 between England and the West Indies at Lord’s cricket ground in London. The remained at three. Eduardo Nunez and Mookie Betts both left with injuries for the Seattle 76 81 .484 20.5 San Diego 70 87 .446 30 England and Wales Cricket Board says all-rounder Ben Stokes was arrested after Oakland 72 84 .462 24 San Francisco 62 95 .395 38 incident in Bristol. — AP Red Sox. Nunez aggravated a right knee WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 SPORTS Ben Yedder hat-trick eases Sevilla past Maribor

SEVILLE: French forward Wissam Ben course for victory before completing his Berizzo from Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at flowing team move saw Sevilla double points assured. However, Ben Yedder Yedder hit a hat-trick as Sevilla soared hat-trick with a penalty seven minutes Atletico Madrid. And Sevilla carried their advantage seven minutes before got the chance to take his Champions to the top of Champions League Group from time. Liverpool’s 1-1 draw at much more of a potent threat in the the break as Ben Yedder latched onto League tally to six in four games this E by cruising to a 3-0 win over Spartak Moscow sees the Spaniards final third with he and Joaquin Correa Franco Vazquez’s through ball inside season when Sebastien Corchia was Slovenian champions Maribor yester- lead the group with four points to recalled up front. the area before firing with unerring felled inside the area. And the striker day. Ben Yedder produced clinical fin- Liverpool and Spartak’s two. Ben The two combined for the opening accuracy in off the far post. Sevilla were didn’t disappoint by slotting low into ishes from close range twice in 11 first- Yedder’s inclusion was one of seven goal when Correa’s cut-back was slotted happy to take the sting out of the game Jasmin Handanovic’s bottom left-hand half minutes to put the hosts well on changes made by Sevilla boss Eduardo home at the near post by Ben Yedder. A after the break with an important three corner. — AFP

Stunned Monaco suffer home defeat by Porto

MONACO: AS Monaco’s Champions League utes when Radamel Falcao was perfectly campaign suffered a huge blow as last sea- set up in the box by Rachid Ghezzal, only son’s semi-finalists fell victim to a Vincent for the Colombian to shoot straight at the Aboubakar double in a 3-0 home defeat by goalkeeper. Porto yesterday. The home side dominated, with Ghezzal Cameroon striker Aboubakar scored in proving a constant threat on the right each half and Miguel Layun rounded off flank, but they lack accuracy in the area. the win in the closing stages to put Porto Despite a few early bursts, Porto were on second in Group G with three points from the back foot, but they went ahead in the two games, three behind leaders Besiktas 31st minute. who won 2-0 at home to Leipzig. Danilo Pereira’s shot was parried by Monaco, who lost 3-0 to Porto in the keeper Diego Benaglio into the path of 2004 Champions League final, are third Aboubakar, whose first shot bounced off with Leipzig bottom also on one point. It the post before his second attempt hit the was the principality side’s biggest roof of the net. Porto were even more com- Champions League home defeat. The hosts posed after the break while Monaco looked lost many of their top players in the close short of ideas and the visitors were reward- season, including exciting teenage striker ed in the 69th when Aboubakar tapped in Kylian Mbappe, but they managed to cre- Moussa Marega’s cross from the right. ate some early chances. Porto rubbed salt in the home side’s However, Porto stayed calm as Monaco wounds in the 89th minute, second- piled on the pressure and were more clini- half substitute Layun eventually firing cal in a lively encounter at Stade Louis II. the ball home after a goalmouth Monaco had a clear chance after four min- scramble. — Reuters

MOSCOW: Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, top, jumps over Spartak’s Salvatore Bocchetti during the Champions League soccer match between Spartak Moscow and Liverpool in Moscow, Russia, yesterday. — AP Coutinho scores as Liverpool held to 1-1 draw in Moscow

MOSCOW: A sparkling Philippe Coutinho goal lay-off and Firmino drew an agile save from was not enough to earn Liverpool victory as Artem Rebrov with a forceful header. But they were held to a 1-1 draw by Spartak Coutinho’s first telling intervention was to give MONACO: Porto’s Brazilian defender Felipe (2nd-R) heads the ball during the UEFA Moscow in the Champions League yesterday. away the free-kick that led to Spartak’s 23rd- Matches on TV Champions League Group G football match AS Monaco FC vs FC Porto yesterday at Coutinho cancelled out Fernando’s free-kick in minute opener. the Louis II stadium in Monaco. — AP (Local Timings) the 31st minute, but Liverpool’s quest for a winner came to nothing, leaving them still REBROV INJURED UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE without a win after two games in Group E. The Brazilian came through the back of Qarabag Agdam v Roma 19:00 Besiktas stays perfect Liverpool have now gone seven matches Aleksandr Samedov and his compatriot beIN SPORTS HD 6 without victory in the Champions League-their Fernando swept the set-piece past a flat-foot- Basel 1893 v Benfica 21:45 longest such run in the competition-and trail ed Karius from 25 yards. Liverpool have kept beIN SPORTS HD 7 with win over Leipzig group leaders Sevilla by two points. The five- only two clean sheets in their 11 games to date CSKA Moscow v Manchester United 21:45 time champions paid the price for some waste- this season. beIN SPORTS HD 5 ful finishing, substitute Daniel Sturridge and Thankfully for Liverpool, Coutinho had the ISTANBUL: Besiktas stayed perfect with a with last year’s semifinalist Monaco and Paris Saint v Bayern Munich 21:45 Mohamed Salah both spurning good chances good grace to atone, a sudden burst of energy 2-0 win over Leipzig in the Champions Leipzig on one point. Porto won 3-0 at beIN SPORTS HD 1 to secure victory in the closing stages. seeing him swap passes with Mane on the left League with first-half goals from Ryan Monaco in the group’s other match. Anderlecht v Celtic 21:45 On the plus side, Jurgen Klopp’s men looked before placing a shot into the roof of Rebrov’s Babel and Talisca yesterday. Besiktas had never beaten German oppo- beIN SPORTS HD 8 more solid defensively than in recent weeks, net. Coutinho has scored in successive games The Turkish side has six points from two nents in seven previous attempts in Atletico de Madrid v Chelsea 21:45 but Fernando’s goal raised questions about since being brought back into the team follow- games in Group G, three more than Porto, European matches. — AP beIN SPORTS HD 3 Klopp’s decision to bring goalkeeper Loris ing his unsuccessful attempt to engineer a Sporting v Barcelona 21:45 Karius into the team in place of Simon move to Barcelona. Liverpool twice squan- beIN SPORTS HD 2 Mignolet. While Russian champions Spartak dered chances to go ahead before the break, Juventus v Olympiacos 21:45 have gone nine games without victory in the Firmino miscuing from Jordan Henderson’s beIN SPORTS HD 4 Champions League, this was a result to warm cross and then a 4 v 2 situation breaking down the hearts of their vocal fans on a chilly night when Mane strayed offside. at Otkrytiye Arena. Coutinho worked Rebrov with a free-kick Wijnaldum to the mix and saw teenage full- From a Liverpool perspective, the match early in the second half, but even after the back Alexander-Arnold thrash wide with his was notable for the fact Coutinho started Spartak goalkeeper was forced off by injury, left foot after cutting in from the right. His side alongside Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto with Aleksandr Selikhov replacing him, the vis- procured two golden opportunities to snatch Firmino for the first time. With their ‘Fab Four’ itors could not find a path to goal. Andrei victory at the death, but Sturridge slashed a on the pitch, the visitors settled quickly and Eschenko served a reminder of Spartak’s threat volley over from Henderson’s cross and Salah twice went close to taking the lead. Trent with a drilled effort that Karius boxed away. could not beat Selikhov with a header from Alexander-Arnold volleyed wide from Salah’s Klopp added Sturridge and Georginio Alexander-Arnold’s cross. —AFP Napoli take first points in group F as Feyenoord squander penalty chance

NAPLES: Napoli bounced back from a poor start remained winless against Italian opposition 2015. Still, many Feyenoord fans descended on ISTANBUL: Besiktas’ forward Cenk Tosun (C) fights for the ball with Leipzig’s Willi to its Champions League campaign with a con- since a 1-0 victory over Inter Milan in the semifi- Naples. Three were arrested Monday for throw- Orban (R) and Stefan Ilsanker (L) during the UEFA Champions League group G foot- vincing 3-1 win over Feyenoord yesterday. Dries nal first leg of a triumphant UEFA Cup campaign ing rocks at police and seven were denied ball match between Besiktas and RB Leipzig at Vodafone Park stadium in Istanbul Mertens extended his red-hot form by scoring in 2002. Dutch fans were banned from the entrance at the stadium gates, according to the yesterday. — AFP one goal and setting up another, while Lorenzo match as a safety measure due to rioting by ANSA news agency. More than a hundred Insigne and Jose Callejon also found the net, Feyenoord supporters during the club’s last visit Feyenoord supporters roamed downtown and goalkeeper Pepe Reina saved a penalty. to Italy for a Europa League match in Rome in watched closely by police. —AP Sofyan Amrabat pulled one back for Mourinho wants Man Feyenoord in added time. Having lost its Group F opener at Shakhtar Donetsk, Napoli played with an urgency that produced effective results. Utd to stay grounded Insigne scored with an impressive solo effort seven minutes in at the San Paolo stadium, MOSCOW: Manchester United manager humble. We had to accept that the oppo- Mertens found the net with a precise angled Jose Mourinho has encouraged his players nent was in a high and we had to fight hard. shot four minutes after the break and Mertens to remain “humble” as they look to take con- “So it’s a mixture of our quality-being set up Callejon’s goal in the 70th. trol of Champions League Group A by beat- dominant like we always want to be-but Manchester City leads the group with a maxi- ing CSKA Moscow today. United are level accepting the reality of high-level football. mum six points after beating Shakhtar 2-0. on points with leaders Manchester City in When the opponent has a strong moment, Shakhtar and Napoli are next with three points the Premier League after winning five and you have to cope with it.” In-form attacking each and Feyenoord is last with zero. The hosts drawing one of their first six games and midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan said dominated from the start. some of their football has been dazzling. Mourinho’s words after the Basel game had After gathering the ball near midfield, Insigne They beat Basel 3-0 in their Champions made United’s players doubly determined League opener, but Mourinho criticised his not to let their levels drop even once games dribbled forward and hit the target with a low players for playing “PlayStation football” in are in the bag. strike from the edge of the area. Inisgne cele- the game’s latter stages and he warned the “Of course everyone knows that Jose brated by holding aloft the No. 99 jersey of wheels could quickly come off if they lose Mourinho is very demanding and what he recently injured teammate Arkadiusz Milik. focus. “We cannot guarantee this line of suc- said, he’s right,” the Armenian told Marek Hamsik and Insigne came close to dou- cess, but the way to try to keep it is to do United’s pre-match press conference at bling Napoli’s lead before the break. what we are doing,” said Mourinho, whose CSKA’s VEB Arena yesterday. “He didn’t say A through ball from Faouzi Ghoulam set up side won 1-0 at Southampton in their most exactly names, but everyone thinks that Mertens’ goal, the eighth in 10 appearances in all recent game on Saturday. they’ve done something bad or done competitions this season for the Belgium inter- “We try to play well and in some some mistakes. national. Ghoulam then conceded the penalty moments of the match, if the opponent has “But we’re trying to improve that aspect for a foul on Steven Berghuis, only for Reina moments of superiority, we have to be hum- and play more focused during the whole guess right, lunging to his left to stop Jens Toornstra’s spot kick. ble-like we were against Southampton-and game and not start doing some fantasy foot- NAPLES: Napoli’s Jorginho, right, and Feyenoord’s goalkeeper Brad Jones vie for the ball dur- For Napoli’s third, Mertens turned provider cope with the difficult moments of the ball, as he said, or playing some PlayStation ing the UEFA Champions League, Group F soccer match between Napoli and Feyenoord at the and set up Callejon inside the area. Feyenoord game. “In the second half we had to be in the last 20 to 25 minutes.” — AFP San Paolo stadium in Naples, Italy, yesterday. — AP Cowboys rebound Coutinho scores from loss to as Liverpool topple Cardinals held to 1-1 draw 13 in Moscow15

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017

Judge sets HR record as Yankees beat Royals Page 14

DORTMUND: Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo, second right rear, jumps to block the ball from a free kick by Dortmund’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, front right, and Dortmund’s Gonzalo Castro, front left, during a Champions League Group H soccer match between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid at the BVB stadium in Dortmund, Germany, yesterday. — AP Ronaldo nets twice as Real win in Dortmund

DORTMUND: Cristiano Ronaldo marked his 150th touched his hand. “It was tough but we showed our “We had the chance to make it 1-1, but instead we when he spun and fired home Lukasz Piszczek’s pass, European game with two goals as Real Madrid sealed a personality and authority. went 2-0 down and then it is always hard against Real.” but the goal was ruled offside as it stayed 1-0 to Real at 3-1 victory at Borussia Dortmund yesterday to top “We’re on the right track after all that’s been said. Dortmund should have been awarded a penalty with the break. Real lived dangerously after the break when their Champions League group. Ronaldo claimed two “We want to rediscover our best and I think tonight was 13 minutes gone when Sergio Ramos cleared Mario Goetze tried to find Aubameyang, but centre- second-half goals after Gareth Bale’s stunning early a step in the right direction. “In the Champions League Maximilian Philipp’s shot off the line and the ball back Raphael Varane cleared the danger. The Spanish volley gave Real the lead at Dortmund’s Signal Iduna it is important to win with authority and we did that.” deflected off his hand. giants doubled their lead on 49 minutes when Ronaldo Park The Germans fought back when Pierre-Emerick The result leaves Real top of Group H, just ahead of Andrey Yarmolenko’s initial cross sailed tantalisingly met Bale’s inch-perfect cross. Aubameyang finally netted with just over half an hour Tottenham Hotspur, who beat APOEL 3-0 away, with over the head of Borussia’s top-scorer Aubameyang in Dortmund pulled a goal back on 54 minutes when left, but there was to be no repeat of last year’s 2-2 Dortmund third and six points adrift of Spurs, who they the build up. Real took the lead three minutes later Aubameyang slipped his marker to convert Gonzalo draw in Dortmund between the teams. also lost 3-1 to in London. when right-back Daniel Carvajal whipped in a cross and Castro’s cross, then hit the side netting as Borussia This is the first time Dortmund have lost at home Having also netted twice against APOEL, Ronaldo has Bale’s nonchalant volley sailed over Dortmund goal- pushed for the equaliser. With 15 minutes left, Burki had to Real in seven European games while holders now scored four goals in just two Champions League keeper Roman Burki for a stunning goal. With half an to push Isco’s shot around the post as Real kept the Madrid have now scored in 38 successive Champion games this season. He marked his 400th appearance for hour gone, Dortmund turned the screw with Carvajal pressure. League games. “We knew after so many years we’d Madrid in total with another pair to leave him with 411 having to rescue Real by whipping the ball off Ronaldo, who was left in acres of space, settled the finally win here and today was the day,” said Real cap- goals in the famous white shirt. “Real were simply ruth- Aubameyang’s toes with the Gabon striker bearing tie by blasting home Luka Modric’s cross on 79 minutes tain Sergio Ramos, who was lucky not to have given less and used their chances,” said Dortmund midfielder down on goal. with Madrid’s third goal on the break to take the game away a first-half penalty after replays showed the ball Gonzalo Castro. Aubameyang had the ball in the net on 38 minutes, out of Dortmund’s grasp. — AFP De Bruyne rocket fires City Kane hat-trick seals MANCHESTER: Kevin De Bruyne’s superb on the end of a flowing move to ghost clean strike and a late Raheem Sterling goal main- through on goal, only for countryman tained Manchester City’s impressive form in a Fernandinho to make a superb covering tack- easy victory for 2-0 Champions League win over Shakhtar le. There was also a firm strike from Marlos Donetsk yestersday. De Bruyne struck in the who forced City goalkeeper Ederson into the Spurs in Cyprus 49th minute with a magnificent 20-yard strike game’s first meaningful save as he dived into the top right-hand corner of the Shakhtar sharply to his right. NICOSIA: A Harry Kane hat-trick saw Toby Alderweireld, placing the ball goal after David Silva’s run had ended with BREATHTAKING Spurs notch their second win in as past the on-rushing Boy Waterman, the Spaniard teeing up the opening. many games in Group H of the despite appeals for offside from the It was the Belgian’s first goal of City’s free- But most of the other promising moments Champions League, beating Cypriot home side. Lloris was forced into his scoring season - a reflection of his new, deep- came from the hosts, looking unstoppable in champions APOEL Nicosia 3-0 in first meaningful save in the 47th er role under Pep Guardiola - but certainly a a recent five-game spell which had seen them Cyprus yesterday. minute when he was equal to goal worth waiting for given its quality. score 22 goals. De Bruyne, one of many of the With the Premier League side miss- Hungarian forward Roland Sallai’s vol- Although City striker Sergio Aguero failed crop of City stars in a rich vein of form, unex- ing the creative spark of both Christian ley from just inside the penalty area. with a penalty, Sterling’s 89th minute finish pectedly missed the target, shooting wide MANCHESTER: Manchester City’s English Eriksen and Dele Alli, it was down to The French number one was tested from 12 yards, after a sprint and cross from fel- after a Gabriel Jesus pass had slipped him the English striker to pick up the slack, again shortly after, this time by the live- low substitute Bernardo Silva, spared his through. And Sane first tested Pyatov with a defender Kyle Walker (R) clashes with Shakhtar Donetsk’s Brazilian defender Ismaily during the and despite a spirited effort from the ly Stathis Aloneftis, who was put team-mate’s blushes and wrapped up the low shot from the edge of the area then home side, Spurs ran out easy winners. through by Nuno Morais down the left. points at Eastlands. worked his way skilfully through a couple of Group F football match between Manchester City and Shakhtar Donetsk yesterday. — AFP Apoel started shakily and could have His high shot was tipped over by Lloris. Aguero could have doubled the lead, and unconvincing challenges before rolling a shot been behind on more than one occa- Spurs doubled their lead and Kane equalled City’s club record of 177 goals current- inches wide of the far upright. struck directly at the keeper. sion, Heung-Min Son missing the best got his second in the 62nd minute ly held by Eric Brook in the 1930s, after Leroy As the half ended, it might have appeared There might have been more glory for De chance for Spurs when he headed over when Moussa Sissoko found the for- Sane was brought down by Ivan Ordets after 71 that City’s record of never having experienced Bruyne, after another penetrating run down unmarked from five yards out. The ward on the edge of the box and the minutes. But Aguero hit his spot kick too close a goalless draw in the 37 Champions League the left from Sane, but this time defender Cypriots slowly grew into the game, Englishman made no mistake with his to goalkeeper Andriy Pyatov who dived smartly group stage fixtures was under threat. But it Ismaily managed to block his long-range striking the bar and coming inches right foot. Kane completed his ‘perfect’ to his right to keep out the effort. took just three minutes of the second half for effort. De Bruyne almost turned provider after from opening the scoring themselves, hat-trick five minutes later by heading A game which featured eight Brazilians - De Bruyne to ensure the streak would contin- 69 minutes with an enterprising run down the following a calamitous clearance from in a Kieran Trippier cross from the right five of them from Shakhtar - and just three ue, a development that opened up the con- right and perfect cross which substitute Tottenham goakeeper Hugo Lloris just to seal the win for Spurs. English players predictably provided plenty of test even further. Sterling side-footed wide on the volley. after the half-hour mark. Tottenham now have six points, entertainment and admirable football, even if Sane soon tested Pyatov with a darting run Aguero and Sane, twice, came close in the But it was Spurs who went ahead in along with Real Madrid who beat goals were hard to come by. Both sides had and near-post shot and it looked as if Aguero closing stages although the hosts also had to the 38th minute when Kane finished Borussia Dortmund 3-1 in Germany. good opportunities to break the first half was destined to edge a goal closer the record, survive a strong penalty appeal from coolly after he was left unmarked, 18 Both APOEL and Dortmund remain deadlock, Shakhtar’s best falling to the when Silva’s breathtaking chip forward Shakhtar after the ball appeared to strike yards out. He was expertly found by without any points. — Reuters Brazilian Fred on 11 minutes as he appeared offered up a volley which the Argentinian John Stones’ arm. — AFP Wall St slips on N Korea tensions Page 20

Flydubai announces flights to Podgorica Business Page 21 WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 Kuwait’s development US new home sales sink in August plan moving on fast-track: NBK Page 19 Page 18

KUWAIT: (From left to right) Adel Abdul Wahab Majed, Deputy Chairman, Kuwait Banking Association and Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Boubyan Bank, Dr Anwar Al-Mudhaf, Chairman of the board of Ahli United Bank, Bader Nasser Al-Kharafi, Vice Chairman & Group CEO - Zain Group, Omar Kutayba Alghanim, Chairman of Gulf Bank and Majed Essa Al-Ajeel, Chairman of Burgan Bank, during the Euromoney Conference Kuwait, yesterday. — Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Euromoney Conference Kuwait Education, Kuwait’s biggest challenge: Alghanim Gulf Bank emphasizes role of private sector in ‘New Kuwait Vision’

KUWAIT: Gulf Bank successfully concluded its seventh consecutive lead sponsorship of the Euromoney Conference which took place yesterday under the theme Interview of ‘New Kuwait - Financial Challenge or Financing Opportunity?’ Held in partnership with the Ministry of Finance at the JW Marriott, this financial conference gath- Boursa Kuwait being upgraded ered together policy makers, financiers, and investors to explore the Kuwait National Development Plan, commonly referred to as the New Kuwait 2035, and the changes it will bring to Kuwait’s economy and the nation as a whole. to emerging market by FTSE The opening session included remarks from Anas Al- Saleh, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, as well as Dr. Mohammed Al-Hashel, Governor of the Central Kuwait market eyes major spurt in turnover, foreign investments Bank of Kuwait. Omar Kutayba Alghanim, Chairman of Gulf Bank and CEO of Alghanim Industries, participated in the KUWAIT: Following the latest meeting of The Financial morning’s first interview session with Kuwaiti banks. Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) Russell Governance Board, Discussing the New Kuwait plan, Alghanim said: “I want the FTSE could announce the upgrade of Boursa Kuwait what’s best for our country. In order to build the economy from a Frontier Market to a Secondary Emerging Market envisaged by the New Kuwait strategy, we will need finan- and the impact of being classified within this index for cial capital and a banking system that is ready, willing, and Kuwait can mean a significant increase in turnover and for- able to support on multiple fronts. We must also have the eign investments in the market, said Khaled Al-Khaled, CEO right human capital in place to help realize the plan.” of Boursa Kuwait during an interview on the sidelines of Highlighting the complexities in implementing the New Euromoney conference in Kuwait yesterday. Excerpts: Kuwait vision, Alghanim noted: “It’s one thing to have an ambitious plan, but it’s quite another to implement it. As a Question: We have heard that Boursa Kuwait will be businessman, I know how hard it is to drive change in a upgraded from a Frontier Market to Secondary single company, it’s obviously much harder to change an Emerging Market by FTSE and that there is a potential entire country. It requires hard work, determination, and a impact on boosting the foreign investments to Kuwait. real sense of urgency. It’s also critical to have clear metrics Would you kindly provide your views? for measurability and accountability, as well as transparent Al-Khaled: I would like to thank the CMA who led the and detailed reporting on the plan’s progress.” way in coordination with Boursa Kuwait and KCC in order Noting the importance of human capital in delivering the to implement the initial infrastructural changes for FTSE ini- plan, Alghanim remarked: “Education is greatest challenge tiative. Following the latest meeting of The Financial Times we face as a nation. Kuwait’s spending per student is far Stock Exchange (FTSE) Russell Governance Board, the FTSE greater than per student spending in many developed coun- could announce the upgrade of Boursa Kuwait from a tries like Germany, Canada, United Kingdom, and France. Frontier Market to a Secondary Emerging Market and the Continued on Page 18 impact of being classified within this index for Kuwait can mean a significant increase in turnover and foreign invest- KUWAIT: Khaled Al-Khaled, CEO of Boursa Kuwait during his interview session at Euromoney ments in the market. Conference Kuwait. Playing a major role in this outcome, are the infrastruc- sound local and foreign investment opportunities. • Decline in liquidity. tural changes including the settlement cycle, trading effi- • Creating an attractive issuer’s base. ciency, transparency and disclosures that were implement- Question: We Heard About Market Segmentation. ed in the market, and the additional services offered such What are the main underlining factors of this Market- Question: What are the Continuous Achievements of as extended auction, special trades and market makers. Wide Activity? Boursa Kuwait? Al-Khaled: Boursa Kuwait is introducing Market Al-Khaled: Launched an initiative to upgrade the mar- Question: What does this achievement mean for Segmentation for the first time in Kuwait and in the region kets infrastructure which includes increasing the settle- Boursa Kuwait and its investors? as a whole. This approach to manage the market, which is ment cycle to T+3 Settlement, in accordance with The Al-Khaled: The new FTSE status has been a key objec- an internationally recognized practice undertaken by some Guidelines of the Capital Markets Authority. Furthermore, tive of Boursa since the inception in April last year. It high- of the world’s largest markets, will allow Boursa Kuwait to this upgrade has led way to successful Implementation of lights its mission to enhance the current level of perform- achieve major changes and improvements in the opera- Standardized Corporate Actions, New Tick Size, Increase in ance in Kuwait, enable Boursa Kuwait to compete with tions of the exchange. Price Limits, Randomized Closing Auction, ability to sup- regional peers and build a market reflecting the strength, The market will be segmented into three main cate- port Market Maker and Short Selling etc. depth and flexibility of the Kuwaiti private sector. gories: Premier, Main and Auction. Each category has been • Introduced Special Trades for Listed Shares, which are The FTSE classifications will provide investors an objec- designed based on certain criteria and more importantly, in designed for large volume transactions. tive and consistent approach to the classification of mar- a means to cater to and accommodate the current Kuwait • Introduced the Company Information Portal (CIP) kets with a global context. With the Secondary Emerging market status. which is a tool designed by Boursa Kuwait with the aim Market status, Boursa Kuwait will continue to work in close Market Segmentation will allow Boursa Kuwait to of providing an advanced information platform for all KUWAIT: Omar Kutayba Alghanim, Chairman of Gulf partnership with the Kuwait Clearing Company to provide Bank during his interview session at Euromoney address major setbacks in the exchange: listed companies and to increase transparency. Conference Kuwait. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 BUSINESS

EUROMONEY CONFERENCE Kuwait’s development plan moving on fast-track: NBK More activity in project awards since 2014: Shaikha Al-Bahar

KUWAIT: Implementation of Kuwait’s devel- growing number of HNWIs. Other than our opment plan has been moving more rapidly GCC offering, Egypt represents a strong in the last few years. The country’s needs are growth opportunity going forward. NBK more urgent, and the government is, and emphasis in Egypt is on positioning itself for has been, more dedicated, said Shaikha Al- growth as Egypt emerges from a period of Bahar, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer, instability and while the economic reform National Bank of Kuwait, in an interview dur- program starts to deliver stability and ing the Euromoney Conference Kuwait yes- attracts foreign investments. Egypt is among terday. “Indeed, we have seen more activity the largest Middle Eastern markets, with a in project awards since 2014 than we had well-diversified economic base and the before and $18 billion has been awarded last largest population in the region. That offers year and $7 billion in 1H17,” she said. us a great opportunity in Egypt especially As a result, project financing opportuni- with the very low banking penetration rate ties have been more plentiful, in oil and non- that currently exists. We have been in Egypt oil areas. The sectors that benefited the most since 2007 and have done tremendous work are construction, power and oil. The govern- improving our operations there with focus ment is moving ahead with a number of on both retail as well as whole sale products. roadwork projects and new residential areas. Otherwise, and under our presence in At the same time, investment in Kuwait’s international key markets (London, New power and water capacity has been ramped York, Paris and Singapore), we continue to up thanks to a series of PPP projects, one of see a strong inflow of capital and deposits which has already been completed. Of from HNWIs, financial institutions, oil compa- course, it’s also been a priority for the gov- nies, correspondent banks and government ernment to develop the oil and gas sector, agencies, all seeking the safety and stability both upstream and downstream. Excerpts of NBK. We continue to leverage our strong from the interview: franchise along with our high credit ratings to attract funds in international markets. The Question: Is NBK innovating a new way recent debt issuance under our GMTN pro- of financing new style projects - smart gram was a great testimony to the attractive- grids, communications infrastructure, ness on NBK’s name among global investors, education and healthcare? where we raised $750 million of senior unse- Al-Bahar: NBK is one of the few financial cured debt paying one of the lowest rates institutions in the country to have a special- regionally in recent history. It also confirms ized project finance department to assist in NBK’s access to international markets and origination, structuring and distribution of the availability of high quality funding if and non-recourse or limited recourse assets. The when needed. department is manned by officials with large To conclude and going back to the core of experience in financing of projects. NBK has KUWAIT: Shaikha Al-Bahar, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer, National Bank of Kuwait, in an interview during the Euromoney the discussion, since we operate in relatively been supporting most of the project financ- Conference Kuwait yesterday. higher risk markets, diversification is key to ings in the country. Historically, NBK was the innovation and technology to digitally launch special needs ATM. We continue to be regional operations, bringing the full bene- our strategy as I mentioned. In addition to main institution to support the first BOT transform our offered services and the cul- focused on simplifying our customers’ life. fits of the unrivalled core management and geographically, we also tend to be well- project of Sulabiya Waste Water Treatment ture of the organization. We observe every- Strategically we target cash and paper, both treasury functions to extract synergies and diversified by business segment. In addition Plant in 2002, which was quite an innovation thing through the prism of innovation, as our enemies and opportunities enable closer integration. to our conventional domestic offerings of for the financing in the country at that time. product development, services, methodolo- ● With customers, especially new millen- Our regional operations are very stable as corporate, consumer and private banking, In 2014 NBK lead arranged the expansion gies and processes. nials, more comfortable with transacting we continue to focus on less volatile markets we have recently made significant inroads in financing of Sulabiya Waste Water Treatment New technologies are and will continue online, we would like to continuously focus with emphasis on GCC countries. As I men- Islamic banking and investment banking. Plant. The facility was structured, arranged to have significant and disruptive impact on on changing the habits of our customers tioned earlier Kuwait remains our top priority Boubyan Bank, NBK’s 58.4 percent and distributed to local banks by NBK. our customers’ lifestyle; on the way they from cash usage to digital money. market considering the improved operating owned sharia-compliant subsidiary allows Recently NBK has played a lead role in the bank to leverage opportunities in the grow up, socially interact, travel, work, ● environment and the existing growth oppor- using innovative solutions for financing in And every time we spot paper, we shop, bank and pay each other and for tunity on the back of infrastructure spend- growing importance of Islamic Finance in the country such as: would like to automate the process and Kuwait. Moreover, our ambitions to devel- goods and services they buy; customers, ing. Nevertheless, we focus regionally on eliminate paperwork in order to provide our op a regional investment bank are execut- especially the new millenniums, seek Saudi Arabia, where we have one Branch in Structured financing for customers with efficient and secure seam- ed through our investment banking arm, Jeddah (with a potential for expansion) and Projects - Clean Fuel Project instant gratification and in the new world of less customer experience. NBK Capital. NBK Capital has offices in NBK has been using structured financing to social media are both the creators and con- This along with MOBILE FIRST will con- United Arab Emirates, where we have one Kuwait, Dubai, Cairo and Istanbul and support the projects. To illustrate the KD 1.2 bil- sumers of news content. tinue to be our governing strategy going branch in each of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Our offers the highest standards in investment lion Clean Fuel Facility to KNPC, envisages cash To meet this challenge, we at NBK are forward. offering in those two markets is mainly products and financial services under three flow superiority for repayment of institutional focusing on our twin objectives of strength- BANK IN YOUR HANDS is what we con- focused on the general macroeconomic main divisions; Asset Management, loans over large feedstock payments to KPC. ening the already strong leadership position stantly aspire towards. backdrop with more emphasis on wholesale Investment Banking, and Brokerage. The The facility was structured, originated and dis- in the market and to make NBK future safe. banking while building corporate relation- company’s role grew recently in the finan- tributed to local banks by NBK. Bank is very fortunate to have the largest Question: The region remains both ships with blue chip companies and GREs. cial advisory services in Kuwait as we have market share in the country and also a economically and geopolitically challeng- We also have a niche affluent retail offering supported some of the major private and Public Private Partnership - financing strong product-segment continuum, with ing - what does this mean for NBK’s as well as efforts for potential private bank- public sector players in their initiatives and Innovations the ability to be relevant t to the entire com- regional strategy? ing market penetration to capture the advised on several mega transactions NBK is a leading player in all project munity across the strata of the society. Al-Bahar: The Middle East region has wealth management opportunity with the across different industries. financings in Kuwait and has supported We have products and services for the always been characterized by being a rela- most of the consortia in their bids for infra- youngest starting from Zeina account for tively higher risk market, economically or structure projects such as AZN 2 IWPP and kids to products and services for our youth geopolitically. We, at NBK, view this as a nor- Education, Kuwait’s biggest... Kabd Waste to Energy project. The PPP proj- (students without and with allowances), first mal characteristic for all frontier and emerg- ects are governed under the PPP law of 2014 jobbers, mass market, mass affluent, affluent, ing markets globally. But that said, this rela- Continued from Page 17 mitment to Kuwait: “At Gulf Bank and and its executive regulations. The financing and right up to private banking, business tively higher risk profile is what leads to Alghanim Industries, we are fully committed to structure of the project is explicitly specified banking, and corporate banking. higher returns and more attractive growth But, while our spending is among the high- helping the next generation. Our in-house under guidelines laid down by Kuwait NBK is the largest and most significant opportunities. est, our output isn’t. Put simply, we’re not get- programs ensure our employees have the Authority of Partnership Projects (KAPP). banking player in all major social media plat- NBK was among the first banks in the ting our required rate of return - in fact, strictly training and support they need to advance in NBK has been engaging regularly with KAPP forms. We have one of the strongest instant region to capture those opportunities as we on a yield basis, we have a worse rate of return their careers. On the social responsibility front, on finding innovative solutions to financing. gratification program for the new millenni- started our expansion strategy in early than most of the world when it comes to edu- we also have quite a number of training, edu- The Kabd Waste to Energy project, based on als. We have transformed the payment years and we are today present in 15 coun- cation spending. We must shift the focus of cation, and mentorship programs, which help suggestions of the bank has a local currency industry and continue to do so. We have the tries of which 9 are in the Middle East. This our educational system to one that knows youth develop the social and intellectual skills financing component. largest POS network in the industry and one is key to our diversification strategy and how to inspire, motivate, and empower stu- needed to be successful in the future.” of the largest e-Payment gateways in the pri- positions us ahead of competition with dents. Critical thinking skills are areas in which The Euromoney Conference is the world’s Question: What impact will new tech- vate sector and have within a record period most consolidation and merger risks we must improve. We must also address the leading organizer of conferences for cross-bor- nologies have on the way banking works of three months, launched NFC technology behind us. We now reap the benefits of issue of female labor participation, as our gen- der investment and capital markets for portfo- in Kuwait? What is NBK doing and why? for the ease and convenience of the cus- these earlier expansions. der participation gap is still high. At our com- lio and direct investors, financial intermedi- Al-Bahar: New technologies have a tomers, with NBK Tap and Pay. We are proud NBK strengthened its position in the panies, we place great importance on ensur- aries, corporations, governments, banks and direct impact on the way banking works in to be the first bank in GCC to launch Tap and region few years back, where its expansion ing our workplaces empower women and financial institutions. The annual Euromoney Kuwait. NBK is investing in technology and Pay NFC wearables. was part of a strategy to diversify revenue offer opportunities for them to advance in Conference provides Gulf Bank an unparal- innovation as these are the basic means on We continue to innovate across products streams and to achieve growth. More recent- their careers.” leled platform to discuss Kuwait’s fiscal, mone- the journey towards digital maturity. We use and services with the first in Kuwait to ly, we made further consolidation of our Alghanim concluded by affirming his com- tary and economic diversification strategy. EXCHANGE RATES

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. Canadian dollar 245.400 Malaysian Ringgit 72.835 Chinese Yuan 0.044289 0.047789 Turkish lira 88.440 Chinese Yuan Renminbi 46.145 Hong Kong Dollar 0.036621 0.039371 Swiss Franc 313.910 Thai Bhat 10.105 Indian Rupee 0.004201 0.004889 ASIAN COUNTRIES Australian Dollar 241.360 Turkish Lira 85.730 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000018 0.000024 Japanese Yen 2.710 US Dollar Buying 301.250 Indian Rupees 4.624 Japanese Yen 0.002625 0.002805 Korean Won 0.000255 0.000270 Pakistani Rupees 2.868 GOLD Bahrain Exchange Company Srilankan Rupees 1.973 20 Gram 249.070 Malaysian Ringgit 0.067931 0.073931 Nepali Rupees 2.923 10 Gram 127.450 Nepalese Rupee 0.003018 0.003188 CURRENCY BUY SELL Singapore Dollar 224.540 5 Gram 64.570 Pakistan Rupee 0.002742 0.003032 Hongkong Dollar 38.709 Europe Philippine Peso 0.005850 0.006150 Bangladesh Taka 3.690 British Pound 0.400593 0.410593 Singapore Dollar 0.218262 0.228262 Philippine Peso 5.945 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd Czech Korune 0.005724 0.017724 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001595 0.002175 Thai Baht 9.146 Danish Krone 0.044046 0.049046 Taiwan 0.009876 0.010056 Euro 0. 352483 0.361483 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate Thai Baht 0.008773 0.009323 GCC COUNTRIES Georgian Lari 0.121429 0.121429 US Dollar 302.100 Saudi Riyal 80.707 Norwegian Krone 0.0.34564 0.039764 Qatari Riyal 83.125 Canadian Dollar 244.875 Arab Romanian Leu 0.077741 0.077741 Omani Riyal 785.993 Sterling Pound 408.660 Bahraini Dinar 0.795367 0.803867 Russian ruble 0.005250 0.005250 Bahraini Dinar 803.640 Euro 359.530 Egyptian Pound 0.014491 0.020399 Slovakia 0.009009 0.019009 UAE Dirham 82.400 Swiss Frank 293.695 Iranian Riyal 0.000084 0.000085 Bahrain Dinar 801.800 Swedish Krona 0.033506 0.033506 Iraqi Dinar 0.000193 0.000253 ARAB COUNTRIES UAE Dirhams 82.640 Swiss Franc 0.305902 0.316902 Jordanian Dinar 0.421976 0.430976 Egyptian Pound - Cash 19.800 Qatari Riyals 83.465 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 17.070 Saudi Riyals 81.420 Australasia Kuwaiti Dinar 1.000000 1.000000 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.215 Jordanian Dinar 427.375 Australian Dollar 0.231559 0.243559 Lebanese Pound 0.000150 0.000250 Tunisian Dinar 124.210 Egyptian Pound 17.133 New Zealand Dollar 0.212527 0.222027 Moroccan Dirhams 0.021159 0.045159 Jordanian Dinar 426.890 Sri Lankan Rupees 1.975 Omani Riyal 0.779164 0.784844 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 2.016 Indian Rupees 4.631 America Qatar Riyal 0.078786 0.083726 Syrian Lira 0.000 Pakistani Rupees 2.866 Canadian Dollar 0.238907 0.247907 Saudi Riyal 0.079567 0.080867 Morocco Dirham 32.697 Bangladesh Taka 3.721 US Dollars 0.298350 0.302770 Syrian Pound 0.001282 0.001502 Philippines Pesso 5.947 US Dollars Mint 0.298850 0.302770 Tunisian Dinar 0.120207 0.128207 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Cyprus pound 17.979 Turkish Lira 0.080538 0.090838 US Dollar Transfer 302.450 Japanese Yen 3.705 Asia Euro 359.610 Syrian Pound 1.590 UAE Dirhams 0.080921 0.082624 Bangladesh Taka 0.003219 0.003803 Sterling Pound 409.970 Nepalese Rupees 2.902 Yemeni Riyal 0.000983 0.001063 WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 BUSINESS Egypt on track for year-end IMF payment CAIRO: Egypt has made a “good start” to around $2 billion after a second check of bit although high costs have hit many “The inflation target of 10 percent by “Market confidence is returning and its reform program despite seeking progress at the end of this year, but indi- Egyptians hard in the import-dependent June 2018 seems optimistic. We agree capital flows are increasing. These augur waivers for missing targets in June and a cators pointed to progress and consoli- state. Since the Egyptian pound was more with the (Central Bank of Egypt’s) well for future growth. The authorities’ deeper-than-expected currency depreci- dated economic growth. floated last year, the currency has rough- target of 13 percent (3 percent) by the immediate priority is to reduce inflation, ation, the International Monetary Fund “Stabilization is already gaining a ly halved in value. end of 2018,” said Radwa El Swaify, head which poses a risk to macroeconomic said yesterday. It should get its $2 billion foothold, and we have seen positive Lull said Egypt’s inflation is expected of research at Pharos Securities stability,” the IMF said. IMF loan payment after the year-end trends,” Subir Lall, IMF mission chief for to fall to “slightly above” 10 percent by Brokerage in Cairo. It said it had agreed to a request for a review, the Fund said, but inflation-run- Egypt, Middle East and Central Asia, said the end of fiscal year 2017/2018 and to In a statement earlier, the IMF said waiver after Egypt missed primary fiscal ning at just under 32 percent in August- in an online briefing. single digits by 2019. Annual urban con- Egypt’s transition to a flexible exchange balance and fuel subsidy bill require- remains the key risk for stability. “This is a very ambitious program. It sumer price inflation dipped to 31.9 per- rate went smoothly with the parallel ments for end-June. The waiver was Egypt agreed a three-year, $12 billion takes time to work, but it’s well-calibrat- cent year-on-year in August from 33.0 market disappearing and central bank granted in part because of planned IMF loan program in November that is ed and over the course of this economic percent in July, according to the official reserves increasing significantly. Foreign strong fiscal adjustments in the next tied to sweeping reforms such as spend- program of three years, we should defi- CAPMAS statistics agency. Core inflation, currency shortages hampered the coun- two years. ing cuts and tax hikes. nitely be seeing the payoff.” The IMF has which strips out volatile items like food, try’s ability to purchase abroad, creating The IMF said the country’s current They are designed to help revive an already approved $4 billion in loan decreased to 34.86 percent from 35.26 a black market and slowing economic account deficit was seen narrowing to economy hard hit by a shortage of for- instalments, most recently releasing percent, according to the central bank. growth. But foreign reserves have been 4.6 percent of GDP in 2017/18 fiscal year eign currency and investment in the tur- $1.25 billion for Egypt. The finance minister last week gave a recovering since the currency float, ris- and to 3.8 percent in 2018/19. It said it moil that followed its 2011 uprising. In a Inflation, however, reached three- more cautious outlook saying he expects ing to $36.14 billion by the end of primary fiscal deficit seen at 1.8 percent review since the deal, the IMF said Egypt decade highs in July after fuel price hikes inflation to drop below 15 percent by August. They rose $4.73 billion between of GDP, exceeding the program target of should receive a third loan instalment of under the IMF deal. It has since dipped a the end of the 2017-2018 fiscal year. June and July alone. 1 percent. — Reuters Kuwait invites bids Bike boom nibbles on Asia, to develop gas fields gasoline demand growth KUWAIT: Kuwait invited bids to develop tion. However, Kuwait Oil Co. is already non-associated gas fields in the north, working to raise this to 510 MMcf/d, Platts reported yesterday. along with 200,000 b/d of light oil, by the More people dropping cars, buses for bicycles to cover last-mile Quoting unnamed sources, the report end of the year. noted that engineering, procurement The tender follows two contracts SINGAPORE: It is not quite going back to the with 6.5 percent growth last year, said Sri up from about 5 percent now. and construction companies have been signed last February worth more than horse, even if the bicycle was the first contrap- Paravaikkarasu, head of East of Suez oil at FGE. The Taipei city government is expanding invited to submit bids, with the closure $1 billion with oilfield services giant tion to replace beasts as a means of personal And Chinese demand for gasoline is expected bike-sharing program Youbike - which uses date end of February 2018. Schlumberger and a Kuwaiti company transport. This is a new two-wheeled animal, to peak as early as 2025, according to state- docking stations - to have a bike station within a Kuwait has so far failed to develop the for the development of oil and gas though, that millions of consumers in Beijing, owned China National Petroleum Corp. “There 10-minute walk of every citizen by 2018. high-pressure, sulfur-rich sour gas facilities at the East Raudhatain field, Taipei, Singapore and cities across Asia are rent- used to be long queues of taxis waiting for cus- Singapore-owned Obike and US-based VBikes - deposits in the northern part of the as part of the second phase of the ing via phone apps to cover the last mile of jour- tomers outside train stations, but I don’t see both free-range systems - are also operating in country, despite a project launched in Jurassic gas project. The local Safwan neys, leaving cars and motorcycles at home, and them anymore,” said a Beijing analyst, who took Taiwan. “Once bike-sharing pushes it really to 2010. Kuwait currently produces around Petroleum Technologies Co. was forgoing taxis. part in a Reuters survey of bike-share users and the limit, to the extent to impact the way people 180 MMcf/d of non-associated gas, notes awarded the West Raudhatain field The two-year bike-share boom has put over wanted to be known only by her surname Wang. think of mobility, then it could be disruptive,” Platts, an international energy publica- development. 16 million bikes in China alone, according to its For a story on the Reuters survey results, see: said IHS’s Liu. Ministry of Transport, with more than 100 mil- lion riders registered, eating into car use and Asian bikes, Asian cities Four wheels bad gasoline demand growth already expected to Just in the past month, Chinese bike-sharing A survey done by Mobike of 100,000 cus- US new home sales stagnate by 2025. “I often use bike-sharing serv- start-up Mobike introduced its services in Kuala tomers across 36 cities in China found that car ices because it’s very convenient. I can find it Lumpur, Malaysia, and Bangkok, Thailand, as trips among the respondents had more than anywhere and will not worry about losing the well as in US capital Washington, D.C. halved since its service was introduced. A report sink in August bike,” said life-long Beijing native Wei Zhang, 36, Mobike, which launched in April 2016, and from the Transport Commission of Shenzhen, who uses a shared bike several times a week on China-owned rival Ofo have attracted combined one of China’s richest cities, said more than her commute, riding 5 km or more. funding of more than $2 billion from venture 500,000 bike-share units there had replaced Analysts can’t keep up with bike numbers, let capital and private equity firms that include nearly 10 percent of travel by private car or 13 alone estimate how much gasoline consump- Temasek Holdings, Tencent Holdings, DST Global percent of gasoline consumption. tion growth has dropped off due to the rapid and Ant Financial. Bike-sharing could pose a risk to gasoline rise in bike-sharing. But it is clear from industry Ofo - which has more than 10 million bikes consumption “if a stronger state push to reduce estimates, government reports and a Reuters globally to Mobike’s 7 million - says it is on track carbon intensity and improve air quality trans- survey that bike services are resulting in fewer to increase its global bike units to 20 million over lates to more drivers replacing shorter-distance trips by motor vehicles. “Bike-sharing has been the next three months. driving with bike rides,” said Peter Lee, an oil and crazy since late last year ... The general belief is The investments “demonstrate investors’ con- gas analyst at BMI research. Chinese growth of that (it) boosts the utilization of public transport fidence in the global bike-sharing industry,” said passenger car sales, which grew an average as shared bikes help to complete the journey,” Lawrence Cao, head of Asia Pacific business for annual rate of 10.1 percent over 2011 to 2016, is said Harry Liu, downstream consultant with IHS Ofo. Consultancy Roland Berger said the expected to slow to 2.5 percent over the next Markit. Even before the number of bike-share “unforeseeable” amounts of venture capital put five years, said BMI’s Lee. Still, mismanagement units began growing by multiples, analysts had into bike schemes made it almost impossible to of bike numbers and misuse of some bicycles already been saying greater fuel efficiency in estimate the growth potential of bike operators, may attract legislation that could curb their use. autos and the rising use of electric cars meant particularly in China, over the last two years. New shared bikes were recently banned in some gasoline’s big growth story was over. Taiwan, where the government backs a bike- areas in the Chinese cities of Wuhan, Shanghai China’s gasoline demand growth is expected sharing scheme, is aiming to have bikes account and Guangzhou, because of bicycles being dis- to slow to nearly 4 percent this year, compared for a 12 percent share in trips to work by 2020, carded in public spaces. — Reuters Macron government to unveil belt-tightening first budget CHICAGO: This file photo taken on May 14, 2017 shows workers installing windows in a townhome complex under construction in Chicago, Illinois. — AFP PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron’s WASHINGTON: US new home sales slowed monthly survey released yesterday. The government is set to unveil its first annual budg- sharply for the second straight month in monthly decline was less than forecast by et today, balancing tricky priorities as it seeks to August, relieving some pressure on a tight analysts, who said the result actually cut taxes while also slashing the deficit. The market, the Commerce Department report- showed underlying strength in consumer young centrist president has pledged to find 16 ed yesterday. The decline brought the sales sentiment. However, some parts of the billion euros ($20 billion) of savings next year, rate to its lowest level in since December Conference Board survey showed signs of seeing a reduction in the deficit as key to boost- while prices fell and inventories rose. increasing pessimism. The consumer confi- ing France’s credibility in Europe as he eyes a Sales fell 3.4 percent from July to an dence index fell 0.6 points to 119.8, revers- shake-up of the European Union. annual rate of 560,000, seasonally adjusted, ing two straight months of gains and France is one of the few remaining nations in surprising analysts who forecast a decline bringing the level to its lowest point since the EU’s bad books for spending beyond the of only 0.5 percent. And the sales pace was June, according to the Conference Board. bloc’s deficit limit of three percent of gross 1.2 percent below the rate in August 2016. A consensus forecast had expected the domestic product. Macron wants the deficit to Meanwhile, July’s numbers were revised index to fall even further, to 119.4. come in lower than that this year for the first upwards slightly, somewhat muting the “Consumer confidence decreased slightly time in a decade. drop from June to 5.5 percent. in September after a marginal improve- But the former investment banker is also eye- Officials said Hurricane Harvey, which ment in August,” Lynn Franco, the board’s ing tax cuts for companies and families worth a made landfall in southeast Texas late last head of indicators, said in a statement. total 10 billion euros, leaving his government month, slowed the flow of data from some “Confidence in Texas and Florida, however, with less cash to make up the balance. disaster stricken areas but its precise effect decreased considerably, as these two states “Its ambitions are three-fold: considerable tax on the numbers was not immediately clear. were the most severely impacted by cuts, higher spending in certain sectors, and At the current sales rate, the volume of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.” bringing down the deficit,” said Alain Trannoy, homes for sale represented a supply of 6.1 But on the whole, consumer attitudes head of research at the School for Advanced months, up seven percent from July and about current conditions remained “quite Studies in the Social Sciences. the highest level in three years. favorable,” she added, saying that short- “That inevitably creates a tension.” Prime Meanwhile, the median home price fell term expectations were also bullish. Minister Edouard Philippe has warned there will 6.2 percent for the month to $298,000. However, consumers views of the current be tough choices, saying last month that he was Sales fell sharply in the US South, dropping situation did darken slightly. The share of “not here to be nice”. those saying conditions were “good” fell 0.6 An interim budget for 2017 finalized in July 4.7 percent, and in the West and Northeast, PARIS: This file photo taken on July 12, 2017 shows French Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire points to 33.9 percent, while those saying included cuts to housing subsidies and defense declining by 2.7 percent and 2.6 percent, (right) and Public Action and Accounts Minister Gerald Darmanin (left) leaving the Elysee conditions were “bad” rose by the same spending which sparked a backlash from left- respectively. Though they can see big Palace in Paris after a weekly cabinet meeting. — AFP swings from month to month, August’s amount to 13.8 percent. The short-term wingers in parliament and the head of the sales numbers could mean pressure is outlook also showed some signs of increas- armed forces. Social security is set to see a 5.5- plans to slash military spending. includes cash incentives for drivers to trade in momentarily easing on would-be home- ing concerns, as the share of those expect- billion-euro cut next year, according to a source People with diesel cars meanwhile face a 10 heavily polluting cars. France is forecast to post buyers. But analysts say the current eco- ing conditions to worsen rose 1.9 points to close to budget preparations, while nearly 1,600 percent tax rise to 7.6 cents ($0.09) a litre as his economic growth of 1.7 percent this year, but nomic recovery, with steady job creation 9.9 percent, while those foreseeing an civil service jobs will be axed. government seeks a greener economy. The envi- Macron has vowed to make a priority of lower- and slowly rising wages, has created strong improvement rose just 0.4 points to 20.2 In better news for many families, some 80 ronment was at the center of a 57-billion-euro ing unemployment stuck at around 9.5 percent- demand for housing and this trend is likely percent. The hit to confidence in the hurri- percent will see their household tax reduced in a investment fund unveiled Monday which about twice that of Britain or Germany. — AFP to continue. Impediments to construction, cane-affected zones was pronounced. In move the government hopes will increase the including scarce labor and rising costs for Texas, it fell 25.5 points to 119.9. And in spending power of consumers. materials, have meant that supply has not Florida, it dropped 8.4 points to 126.7. Qatar Airways announces kept pace with demand. Mickey Levy of Economists say the storms, which forced Open for business? Berenberg Capital Markets said the hurri- millions to evacuate, caused tens of billions Macron came to power in May promising to canes’ destruction came at a moment when in damages and shuttered much of US oil make France a more attractive destination for $2bn Boeing plane order investment, starting his presidency by pushing barriers to homebuilding already were sti- production and refining capacity, should DOHA: Qatar Airways announced yesterday it manufacturing plant in Everett, Washington, fling supply levels. slow third-quarter GDP growth but spark a through reforms to the country’s famously com- plex labor laws. “France suffers from two ills: a has placed an order worth more than $2 bil- in the US. The decision to buy the new planes “The necessary rebuilding in the South rebound at the end of the year. lion for six Boeing planes, which it said reflect- may be seen as strategically as well economi- will strain a housing sector already con- Ian Shepherdson of Pantheon lack of attractiveness and a lack of competitive- ness,” said Geoffroy Roux de Bezieux, vice presi- ed the airline’s continued expansion in the cally important. strained by various supply factors,” he said Macroeconomics said 2005’s Hurricane United States. Gas-rich Qatar has made it clear it is seek- in a note to clients, highlighting in particu- Katrina, which caused nearly 2,000 deaths dent of business lobby Medef. The budget “essentially responds to the first A statement on the Gulf carrier’s website ing further investment opportunities in the lar workers shortages. “Builders will have in New Orleans, had caused a far larger said it had placed an order for two Boeing US. In 2015, it said it would invest up to $35 difficulty finding skilled construction work- dent in consumer sentiment. problem”, he said. Macron’s Socialist predecessor Francois Hollande had already pledged to bring 747-8 Freighters and four 777-300ERs. It billion in the United States over the following ers that are in short supply-residential con- “This report continues the pattern of added that the order was valued at $2.16 bil- five years, after targeting high-profile acquisi- struction employment is just touching much less bad post-hurricane data than down corporate tax from the current 33.3 per- cent to 28 percent by 2020. The new president lion (1.8 billion euros) “at list prices”. “The tions in Europe. Last December, Doha also 2002 levels, as employment in other sec- after Katrina, despite the much bigger order, a sign of the airline’s continued expan- announced the fund would invest $10 billion tors have long-passed 2002-07 levels.” areas affected by Harvey and Irma,” he said plans to cut this again to 25 percent by 2022 as he seeks to cast off France’s reputation for being sion and contribution to the US economy, in US infrastructure projects. The purchase in a research note. “It might not be the last adds to the airline’s current fleet of nearly 100 also comes at a time of high political tensions Consumer confidence word, and we can’t rule out a further a difficult place to do business. Despite the tax cuts, the budgets of several Boeing widebody airplanes and its more than within the Gulf. Qatar has found itself region- US consumer confidence slipped in decline in October, but so far it seems likely 100 additional Boeing aircraft on order,” read ally isolated since June 5 after Saudi Arabia, September, partly weighed down by hurri- that the overall national economy will suf- ministries are set to go up in 2018 — notably that of defense, after the armed forces chief quit the Qatar Airways statement. the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt canes Harvey and Irma which slammed fer only a brief and modest hit from the The announcement was made at Boeing’s cut all ties. — AFP into Texas and Florida, according to a hurricanes.” — Agencies in a blazing row this summer over Macron’s WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 BUSINESS Wall St slips on mounting N Korea tensions

NEW YORK: US stocks gave up early gains that capacity. Yellen’s speech is also in focus 0.01 percent, at 22,294.29, the S&P 500 was raised price target by $10 to $170. Nvidia cent, to $152.87 and chipmaker Nvidia yesterday as rising tensions between the after Fed officials gave differing views on down 0.53 points, or 0.02 percent, at 2,496.13 was up more than 4 percent, following a rose $6.52, or 3.8 percent, to $177.52. United states and North Korea weighed, while inflation, keeping investors guessing about and the Nasdaq Composite was down 1.82 launch of an artificial intelligence-related Facebook added $2.28, or 1.4 percent, to investors awaited Fed Chair Janet Yellen’s the path that the central bank plans to take points, or 0.03 percent, at 6,368.77. software product. Financial index $165.12. Open-source software maker speech for more clarity on interest rate hikes. on interest rates. Nine of the 11 major S&P sectors were though was the biggest laggard, falling Red Hat climbed $4.59, or 4.3 percent, to North Korean has boosted defenses on its “The Fed is in a bit of a quandary,” said Phil higher, with the technology sector’s 0.22 per- 0.14 percent. Among stocks, credit $110.35 after a better-than-expected east coast, a South Korean lawmaker said, fol- Blancato, chief executive of Ladenberg cent rise leading the gainers. The sector had reporting firm Equinox fell 1.67 percent second quarter. lowing Pyongyang’s threat that it would Thalmann Asset Management in New York. taken a beating on Monday, recording its after the company said its Chief EQUIFAX DEPARTURE: Equifax CEO shoot down US bombers flying near the “The market is concerned about the Fed worst daily performance in five weeks, on Executive Richard Smith would retire in Richard Smith is retiring as the credit peninsula. being aggressive, perhaps pushing us to a increasing worries that the top-performing the wake of a massive cyberattack. reporting agency tries to clean up a US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General place where we don’t want to be, whether it’s tech shares were falling out of favor. Red Hat rose 2.22 percent after the mess left by a data breach that exposed Joseph Dunford said the United States should an inverted yield curve or recession”. Apple rose 1.5 percent to $152.54, posting Linux distributor’s quarterly profit came highly sensitive information about 143 assume that North Korea has the ability to hit At 11:31 am ET (1531 GMT), the Dow Jones its first rise in four sessions and propping up in above estimates and the company million Americans. Smith had been CEO US mainland and that it has the will to use Industrial Average was down 1.8 points, or the three major indexes, after Raymond James raised its full-year forecast. Advancing since 2005 and is also stepping down as issues outnumbered decliners on the chairman. The company said Smith won’t NYSE by 1,584 to 1,161. On the Nasdaq, receive his annual bonus or other bene- 1,536 issues rose and 1,206 fell. The fits until Equifax finishes its investigation Standard & Poor’s 500 index jumped 6 into the data breach it disclosed earlier points, or 0.3 percent, to 2,503 as of this month. Two other company execu- 10:15 a.m. Eastern time. The Dow Jones tives left on Sept. 15. Equifax lost $1.27, industrial average rose 64 points, or 0.3 or 1.2 percent, to $103.82. percent, to 22,360. The Nasdaq compos- ENERGY: Benchmark US crude slid 48 ite gained 29 points, or 0.5 percent, to cents to $51.74 a barrel in New York. 6,399 after a drop of 0.9 percent on Brent crude, the standard for interna- Monday. The Russell 2000 index of small- tional oil prices, fell 69 cents, or 1.2 per- er-company stocks picked up 3 points, or cent, to $57.74 a barrel in London. 0.2 percent, to 1,455. BONDS: Bond prices declined. The SAILING ALONG: Carnival’s third- yield on the 10-year Treasury note rose quarter profit and revenue surpassed to 2.24 percent from 2.22 percent. Wall Street’s expectations. The cruise line CURRENCY: The dollar rose to 112.16 raised its annual forecasts and said book- yen from 111.61 yen. The euro fell to ings and prices for next year are higher $1.1786 from $1.1846. than they were at this time a year ago. OVERSEAS: Germany’s DAX rose Carnival gained $2.20, or 3.5 percent, to 0.2 percent and France’s CAC 40 $65.70 and competitor Royal Caribbean added 0.1 percent. In Britain the FTSE Cruises rose $4.77, or 4.2 percent, to 100 was unchanged. Tokyo’s Nikkei $118.65. 225 lost 0.3 percent and the Hang TECH RESET: Big technology compa- Seng of Hong Kong gained less than nies recovered after sharp losses a day 0.1 percent. The South Korean Kospi earlier. Apple picked up $2.32, or 1.5 per- declined 0.3 percent. — Agencies WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 BUSINESS

Al-Sayer celebrates Yokohama’s 100 years of safe driving MNSS unveils Geolander SUV tires from Yokohama Rubber with cutting-edge technology

KUWAIT: Mohamed Naser Al-Sayer & Sons (MNSS), a Sales from Al-Sayer Yokohama and Mohammad Amin In addition to delivering the utility performance subsidiary of Al-Sayer Group Holding and the author- Nasimi Senior Manager After-Sales Marketing. required for driving on various road surfaces, ized distributor of Yokohama tires in Kuwait held the Krishna Kumar General Manager appreciated the “Geolander G055” tires contribute to the vehicle’s third raffle draw of the special promotion celebrating great response from customers and thanked them superior fuel-efficiency, comfort and safety. The Yokohama’s 100th Anniversary at the Yokohama for making this promotion a big success. Yokohama “BluEarth” technology mark is prominently displayed Center - Canada Dry on 14 September 2017 to special promotion entitled customers to enter the on the tire’s sidewall. “Geolander G055” tires are tar- announce winners of special summer promotion. draw upon purchase of Yokohama tire from an geted at SUVs designed primarily for use on road, authorized dealer for a chance to win Gold coins. including urban crossover models and small and 100 gold coins in 100 years celebration midsize SUVs, which are popular around the world. The draw was organized under the supervision of Introducing SUV Tires with leading-edge Yokohama Rubber is dynamically developing tires Ministry of Commerce & Industry - for Consumer pro- technology employing its leading-edge “BluEarth” tire technolo- tection affairs along with Krishna Kumar General Yokohama Rubber has also recently launched The gy, and many of these tires have been adopted by Manager Tires Oil Paint (TOP) and Garage Equipment “Geolander G055”, an SUV tire based on the automakers as original equipment, especially on new Division MNSS, Inderpal Singh Senior Manager, Tire Company’s leading-edge “BluEarth” tire technology. eco car and hybrid vehicle models. Flydubai announces flights to Podgorica Airline offers 2 flights a week to Montenegro capital

KUWAIT: Dubai-based airline flydubai has announced the start of flights to Montenegro’s capital Podgorica, which will begin on 01 November. With two flights a week, the flights include a stopover in Sarajevo, a popular destina- tion on the flydubai network. Podgorica joins the airlines network in Central and Eastern Europe, which includes Belgrade, Bratislava, Bucharest, Prague, Skopje, Sarajevo and Sofia. Flydubai will Innovative loyalty points system become the only UAE-based carrier to offer direct air links to Podgorica. benefits Al Mulla customers Commenting on the launch, Ghaith Al-Ghaith Chief Executive Officer of flydubai, said: “With the KUWAIT: Al Mulla International International Exchange, stressed the flexi- launch of our flights to Podgorica, we continue to Exchange’s customers have a lot to look ble nature of the loyalty program that offer passengers more ways to explore and discov- forward to while doing their transaction makes it unique. “It works at various lev- er Montenegro. The popularity of our summer in their favorite Exchange house. Apart els enabling customers to earn points flights to Tivat has shown a continuous demand from the wonderful service, ambience through many different means such as for more access to this part of the world and we and technological sophistication in remit- early transactions, referring a friend, are delighted to be offering flights to Montenegro tances, they also benefit from the free online transactions and so on.” on a regular basis.” loyalty points that are accorded with the Explaining the details of the program, Podgorica offers its visitors plenty to explore, transactions. the general manager said customers can with its charming architecture, green spaces and Although loyalty points are given in redeem the loyalty points against their scenic surroundings, along with a bustling cafe the service industry by different compa- commission once the benchmark of 1000 culture and numerous museums to visit. Skadar nies, the loyalty points accorded by Al or multiples of 1000 points are achieved. Lake National Park, home of the largest Lake in Mulla Exchange to customers are differ- In addition to the loyalty points earned Southern Europe, is a short drive outside of the ent and highly innovative. There are loyal- for each transaction, customers can also city, while the popular coastal city of Tivat can be ty points given at different levels at Al enjoy a bonus of 500 points for every reached with a 90-minute drive. Mulla Exchange for customers doing new customer referred, 250 bonus points “With the launch of this new route, flydubai transactions with them. for transactions done online at will become the first airline to offer regular servic- Speaking to the media, the customers www.amxremit.com, 3,500 points for es between Podgorica and Sarajevo,” said Jeyhun expressed joy at the benefits that came transactions that meet certain criteria. Efendi, Senior Vice President Commercial (UAE, their way for no extra cost or effort. “We Transactions done by association mem- EU, ME, CIS) at flydubai. “We look forward to the are only using the services of Al Mulla bers attract further bonus points. new opportunities that this will provide along Exchange and we end up winning points. Al Mulla Exchange Company has with the flows of trade and tourism that these As the points awarded are generous, we always laid great emphasis on technolo- flights can offer.” Flydubai is dedicated to provid- are able to collect redeemable points in a gy, spearheading innovation on all fronts ing its customers with a better travel experience short span of time. Therefore, we don’t to the benefit of their customers. In this by offering greater choice and flexibility. With fly- have to wait for a long time to enjoy the instance, the company has taken a con- dubai’s Business Class, passengers can enjoy a benefits.” ventional loyalty program and restruc- more personalized flying experience while Speaking to the media, Rakesh Joshi, tured it to provide maximum benefit to Economy Class offers comfortable seating and a General Manager of Al Mulla the customers. convenient way to travel. Global Finance: KFH is the ‘Safest Burgan Bank announces winner of KD 125,000 Islamic Bank in Kuwait and region’ cash prize in Yawmi draw

KUWAIT: The safest banks chart prepared by KUWAIT: Burgan Bank announced having a growing retail, and private bank Global Finance Magazine has shown that KFH Rodoslaw Danial Pelczynski as the new customer base. Burgan Bank has majori- has maintained its leading position as the safest KD 125,000 cash prize winner in the ty owned subsidiaries in the MENAT Islamic bank in Kuwait, second at the GCC level, Yawmi quarterly draw. The winner region supported by one of the largest seventh at the Middle East level and ranked 24 expressed his excitement for being the regional branch networks. among 50 banks considered by Global Finance winner of the rewarding cash prize with The Bank has continuously improved Group as the safest banks at the emerging mar- Yawmi Account from Burgan Bank. its performance over the years through kets level. The chart is issued by Global Finance The Yawmi quarterly draw offers cus- an expanded revenue structure, diversi- for the last 25 years and considered as the most tomers chances to win higher rewards, fied funding sources, and a strong capital trusted magazine which covers more 500 banks. entitling one lucky customer to win KD base. The adoption of state-of-the-art The magazine is dependent on certain facts 125,000 cash prize every three months. services and technology has positioned including assets volume, financial indicators, To enter Burgan Bank’s Yawmi quar- it as a trendsetter in the domestic market profit ratios, operational revenues, and gover- terly Draws, customers should maintain a and within the MENA region. Burgan nance and compliance standards. minimum amount of KD 500 in their Bank’s brand has been created on a foun- KFH leading position among the safest banks account for 2 months prior to the draw dation of real values - of trust, commit- has reiterated the soundness and credibility of date. Additionally, every KD 10 in the ment, excellence and progression, to KFH trends and the success of the bank’s per- account will entitle customers to one remind us of the high standards to which formance on its 46th anniversary in addition to faced various market challenges, thus increasing bank’s clients in Turkey, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, chance of winning. we aspire. ‘People come first’ is the foun- the soundness of its financial position and vol- customers trust and expanding its share in the Bahrain, Germany, Jordan and Dubai. For more information about the dation on which its products and servic- ume of business. market. KFH remains leading in local market, KFH’s mission is to achieve highest levels of Yawmi quarterly draw, customers are es are developed. KFH has spread its business through 500 competitive worldwide with a set of highly excellence and innovation in the field of client advised to visit their nearest Burgan The bank was re-certified with the branches worldwide. Accordingly, the well-stud- developed and creative products. Good reputa- service, while developing common interest for Bank branch, or call the bank’s call cen- prestigious ISO 9001:2008, making it the ied resolutions and prudent policies have tion, distinguished trade mark and continuous all those concerned with the financial institu- ter where customer service representa- first bank in the GCC, and the only bank achieved for KFH in all aspects of safety and performance development shall increase global tion. KFH’s vision is to spearhead the global tives will be delighted to assist with any in Kuwait to receive such accreditation security. The sound and literal implementation interest in Sharia compliant products and servic- development in Islamic financial services, and to questions on the Yawmi account or any for the third consecutive year. The Bank of professional and Sharia compliance standards es and increase KFH share in the market. upgrade the bank into the level of becoming the of the bank’s products and services. also has to its credit the distinction of has contributed to the continuity of the “Safety KFH was established in Kuwait in 1977 and is most sustainable profitable Islamic bank in the Customers can also log on to Burgan being the only Bank in Kuwait to have & Security” policy in accordance with method- enlisted in the Kuwait Stock Exchange. KFH world. KFH’s values include cementing leader- Bank’s www.burgan.com for further won the JP Morgan Chase Quality ological standards. KFH a vivid vision has Group is a global pioneer in the field of Islamic ship through all its businesses, including leader- information. Recognition Award for twelve consecu- achieved sustainable and well balanced growth, banking services, where it offers a wide array of ship in the Islamic banking services worldwide, Established in 1977, Burgan Bank is tive years. qualitative performance, solid market share, Islamic products and services, not to mention a through innovation and in client service and the the youngest commercial Bank and sec- Burgan Bank, a subsidiary of KIPCO remarkable series of products and services, high standard of innovation and client service. development of its employees. In addition, KFH ond largest by assets in Kuwait, with a (Kuwait Projects Company), is a strongly highly significant human resources skills to cope KFH manages its operations in the GCC, Asia, is committed to all its procedures, and to setting significant focus on the corporate and positioned regional Bank in the MENA with grand global banks. and Europe through over 480 branches, includ- up long-life partnerships with the concerned financial institutions sectors, as well as region. KFH has achieved sustainable growth and ing KFH-Turkey, in order to offer services for the authorities. technology WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 Russia threatens to ban Facebook in 2018

MOSCOW: Russia’s internet watchdog happen in 2018 definitely.” A controver- carried out or the company will stop influenced last year’s US election. will almost certainly be barred, uses yesterday warned Facebook it would sial law passed in 2014 requires foreign working in Russia, as unfortunately hap- Facebook said it was sharing its findings Facebook to communicate with support- be banned in 2018 unless it complies messaging services, search engines and pened to LinkedIn,” Zharov said. “There with the US authorities. The threat of a ers. The online platform allows him to with a law on storing local users’ data. social networking sites to store the per- are no exceptions here,” he added. ban also comes as Russia is gearing up bypass state television, which only gives “The law is compulsory for all,” the sonal data of Russian users inside Russia. Russian internet providers last year for presidential elections in March next him negative coverage. head of Roskomnadzor telecoms The law, which was fiercely opposed blocked the LinkedIn professional net- year. Facebook is widely used by the “We understand very well that watchdog Alexander Zharov told jour- by the telecommunications industry, is working site after Roskomnadzor said it opposition to President Vladimir Putin to Facebook has a significant number of nalists in Moscow, quoted by Interfax an apparent move to pressure sites such broke the law on personal data storage. coordinate protests and make political users in Russia, but on the other hand, news agency. as Facebook and Twitter into handing Zharov’s comments came after Facebook statements. we understand that it’s not a unique “We will work on getting Facebook to over user information. revealed that Russia-linked fake Opposition leader Alexei Navalny, service, there are other social media observe the law,” Zharov said. “This will all “In any case we will either get the law accounts paid for ads that may have who intends to stand against Putin but sites,” said Zharov. — Reuters

China disrupts WhatsApp ahead of Communist Party meeting BEIIING: Chinese authorities appear to WhatsApp users complained about the dis- have severely disrupted the WhatsApp ruptions. “As we get closer to the Party con- messaging app in the latest step to tighten gress, I think authorities will use more censorship as they prepare for a major extreme censorship measures. The public Communist Party congress next month. knows that WeChat isn’t safe,” prominent Users in China have reported wide- Beijing-based activist Hu Jia told AFP. spread disruptions in recent days to the “Me and other dissidents use WhatsApp Facebook-owned service, which previously to communicate 70 percent of the time. For malfunctioned in the country over the the few days WhatsApp was completely summer. Experts said the problems began inaccessible, we didn’t talk at all,” Hu said. on Sunday, but text messaging, voice calls Earlier this month, WeChat informed its and video calls appeared to be working users in a new privacy policy that it would again on Tuesday, though voice messages “retain, preserve or disclose” users’ data to and photos were not going through. “comply with applicable laws or regula- WhatsApp provides message encryption tions”-confirming long-held public technology that likely does not please assumptions about the company’s prac- Chinese authorities, which closely monitor tices. Other users in China noted that the and restrict cyberspace through their WhatsApp disruptions would make it diffi- “Great Firewall”. cult to work with clients abroad. Many Chinese activists favor WhatsApp “Facebook, Twitter, Gmail, Viber were over local messaging apps because of its blocked before. Now even WhatsApp is end-to-end encryption function. China has blocked? Without good messaging tools, it tightened online policing this year, enact- will reduce the efficiency of the foreign ing new rules that require tech companies trade industry,” wrote one person on Weibo, to store user data inside the country as well China’s Twitter-like social media website. I as imposing restrictions on what is permis- can live without the others (applications), sible content. but blocking WhatsApp is driving me crazy,” Chinese cyberspace regulators said said another. WhatsApp declined to com- Monday they slapped “maximum” fines on ment. The Open Observatory of Network major Chinese tech firms Baidu and Tencent Interference, a global censorship detection TURIN: From left, EU Commissioner for the Digital Single Market Andrus Ansip, German deputy economy minister Matthias Machnig, deputy US for allowing the publication of pornograph- group, said China started blocking chief technology officer at the White House Michael Kratsios, Canadian minister of innovation, science, and economic developmentNavdeep ic, violent and other sorts of banned materi- WhatsApp on Sunday. Bains, Italian Economic Development minister Carlo Calenda, French junior minister for the digital sector Mounir Mahjoubi, British minister of al on their social media platforms. The state for digital and culture Matthew Hancock, Japanese member of the House of Representatives Shinsuke Okuno and Japan’s member of the amount of the fines was not disclosed. Growing firewall House of Councillors Daisaku Hiraki pose for a group photo during a G7 Industry ministers meeting, in Turin yesterday.—AP Websites such as Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest To operate in China, some foreign tech and a slew of foreign media have been companies have complied with local regu- blocked for years. The WhatsApp troubles lations. But others such as Google have EU digital summit upstaged emerged ahead of the Communist Party chosen to pull out completely from main- congress on October 18, when President Xi land China. Jinping is expected to be given a second In July, Apple removed software allow- by Germany and Brexit five-year term as the party’s general secre- ing internet users to skirt China’s “Great tary. “It smells like Party congress pre-emp- Firewall” from its app store in the country, tive blocking,” said Jason Ng, who researches drawing criticism that it was bowing to Tallinn session seeks to chart out Europe’s digital future China’s internet at the Citizen Lab at the Beijing’s ever-growing web censorship. University of Toronto. China usually steps up Such software, called virtual private net- BRUSSELS: A summit of European Union lead- included historic gains for the country’s hard- with Prime Minister May in the room,” the diplo- surveillance around major events, Ng said. works (VPN), allow people in China to access ers in Estonia intended to chart out a digital right nationalist party, the AfD. mat said. May will arrive in Tallinn as a fourth any website, even those that are blocked. future for the continent is set to be upstaged by It will also follow a major speech by French round of official Brexit negotiations wraps up in ‘Extreme censorship’ Beijing mandated in January that all devel- less utopian issues including Brexit and the President Emmanuel Macron in which he will set Brussels. In a closely watched speech last Friday, While the WeChat messaging app opers must obtain government licenses to unexpected rise of the far right in Germany. out ambitious eurozone reform proposals that May called for a two-year transition period while owned by China’s Tencent company is more offer VPNs and there has been concern that The EU’s 28 leaders, including British Prime he kept under wraps until after the German elec- promising to meet Britain’s existing EU budget widely used in the country, many it might ban them outright. — AFP Minister Theresa May, are to meet for two days in tion. His plans include creating a budget for the commitments at least until Brexit, and outlining Tallinn starting tomorrow to discuss how Europe eurozone which would be overseen by a finance new legal guarantees for the rights of the rough- can more efficiently transform to the digital age. minister and a new parliament-proposals that ly three million EU nationals living in Britain. Estonia, which holds the EU’s six-month rotat- are sure to be greeted wearily in Berlin. Both of these are key demands of the EU, along ing presidency, bills itself as the avant-garde of This skepticism will be even greater if Merkel with the need to find a solution for how to han- the digital revolution and called the talks to help enters a coalition government, as expected, with dle Northern Ireland’s border with EU-member bring the rest of the bloc up to speed. the pro-business Free Democrats party, which in Republic of Ireland. But the top negotiators from Instead, the national leaders are expected to the campaign poured cold water on French each side immediately issued clashing demands focus on the next steps for the EU over the com- pleas for closer eurozone ties. The Tallinn summit as the talks got underway on Monday. ing years, after the shock of Britain’s vote to also follows a state of the union speech by The talks in Tallinn are coming after other EU leave the bloc and the lingering presence of European Commission President Jean-Claude summits on the bloc’s future in Slovakia, Malta populism in the continent. At a dinner on Juncker which called for deeper integration and Italy were all held without Britain. At the Thursday, the leaders will be given an open across the board, not just in the eurozone. Rome summit in March, the EU’s 27 remaining forum for a “frank and informal” discussion, EU This included calling for more states to join leaders renewed their vows, celebrating the President Donald Tusk said in a letter inviting the euro and the passport-free Schengen area, troubled bloc’s 60th anniversary with a commit- them to the meeting. and a simplification of leadership at the EU. ment to a common future. Formerly part of the Soviet Union, Estonia has Macron’s eurozone plans ‘Very glad’ to have May reinvented itself by taking a jump to the digital The gathering of leaders will be the first since A senior EU diplomat firmly denied that the world, modernizing and digitizing all aspects of This photo illustration shows the WhatsApp application logo (C) on a smartphone Europe’s most powerful leader, German presence of Britain’s May would stifle debate, public life.The discussions on digital issues will screen in Beijing yesterday. Chinese authorities appear to have severely disrupted Chancellor Angela Merkel, won a fourth term on saying the leaders were “very glad” she would be cover cybersecurity and the free movement of the WhatsApp messaging app in the latest step to tighten censorship as they prepare Sunday, but with a disappointing result that in Tallinn. “We reject talk that we cannot talk data in the EU, a priority for Estonia. —AFP for a major Communist Party congress next month.—AFP Alstom and Siemens rail deal runs into French political concerns MUNICH/PARIS: French politicians voiced con- would likely be a Siemens company, although “Is this now the end of Alstom? Will TGV cerns yesterday that a planned multibillion dol- we still need clarification on the capital struc- become German? Why does the government lar merger of the rail assets of Alstom and ture,” said Prime Partners fund manager accept such an imbalance?” Siemens could give the German company the Francois Savary, whose firm holds Siemens A tie-up between the two - aimed at creat- upper hand. Two sources familiar with the mat- shares. French right-wing politician Nicolas ing a European champion in the railway sec- ter told Reuters that the French company plans Dupont-Aignan criticized the likely deal on tor similar to Airbus in aviation - would repre- to pay shareholders a special dividend if the Tuesday as being more favorable to Germany sent a reconciliation of sorts between deal does go through. Siemens is expected to than France, as did far-right politician Nicolas Siemens and Alstom. opt for a deal with Alstom rather an alternative Bay, the National Front’s secretary general. Alstom snubbed the German company in with Canada’s Bombardier, two sources familiar “The Franco-German partnership must not 2014 to sell its energy division to General with the matter told Reuters. result in the eradication of French industry!” Electric in a deal that also saw Paris take a 20 Siemens Mobility is set to be merged into Bay said on Twitter. Eric Woerth, a member of percent stake in Alstom, under a temporary Alstom, in which Siemens would hold 50 per- the right-wing Republicans’ party, voiced simi- agreement with construction group cent plus one share, while the chief executive lar views on his Twitter account. Bouygues. —Reuters would be Alstom’s current boss Henri-Poupart Lafarge. The likely transaction has political ram- ifications, since the French state owns around LYON: Co-creator, with his twin brother Benjamin, of the Lyon-based startup 20 percent of Alstom. A special dividend would TwinswHeel, Vincent Talon presents an industrial droid assistant on Monday at the even out the value of Siemens and Alstom, SNCF (French National Railway Corporation) technicentre in Oullins, near Lyon.— AFP which has too much cash on its balance sheet, to smooth the intended 50-50 joint venture, one of the sources said. “Will there be a special dividend? Yes,” said the second person. China fines tech firms Siemens and Alstom are strong in high- speed intercity trains with their ICE and TGV over online content models. Siemens is also the leader in signaling technology, while Bombardier - whose trans- BEIJING: China has fined several of the a statement on Monday. The amounts of portation headquarters are in Berlin - is stronger country’s biggest technology firms for fail- the fines were not made public. The com- in commuter and light-rail trains. Siemens ing to remove illegal online content as the panies were also ordered to immediately stands to gain control of Alstom’s main busi- authorities intensify their policing of the remove illegal content as well as increase ness, since all of Alstom’s divisions deal with the internet. platform management measures. railways and transportation industries. Three web giants operating popular A Baidu spokeswoman told AFP the social media services have received “maxi- company is “actively cooperating with the Signs of backlash mum penalties” for allowing the publica- government” to “purge bad information” Several politicians and French trade union tion of pornographic, violent and other from its Tieba forum. Regulations in force activists expressed concerns over France losing sorts of banned material, the Cyberspace since 2000 say websites are responsible for control of its TGV high-speed train - a symbol of Administration of China said. Internet users ensuring the legality of any information national pride that has highlighted French had shared the content on Baidu’s online posted on their platforms. engineering skill - and over possible job losses. forum Tieba, the microblogging site Weibo, China has tightened online policing this Shares in Alstom, which had rallied in recent BELFORT: This file photo taken on September 12, 2016 shows a person walking in front of and Tencent’s WeChat application, accord- year, enacting new rules that require tech sessions on anticipation of a deal, slipped 0.25 the French power and transport engineering company Alstom factory in Belfort (eastern ing to the watchdog. companies to store user data inside the percent while Siemens shares were broadly flat. France). France’s Alstom and Germany’s Siemens have a deal ready to sign that would merge The companies also failed to block con- country as well as restrictions on what is “The problem is that at the end of the day, it their rail businesses in the face of Chinese competition.—AFP tent that “promoted ethnic hatred,” it said in permissible content. —AFP WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 HEALTH & SCIENCE Bike-sharing takes off among youths in major Asian cities Cost, convenience drive shared-bike use SINGAPORE: Orange, yellow and other brightly where our smart bike solution can address local using the bikes several times a week. In colored bikes have been popping up in cities transportation needs and where we have ... Shanghai, five out of 10 people surveyed used a across Asia, surprising residents and frequent support from local officials,” said Florian shared bike daily or several times a week. Most visitors with their sudden ubiquity outside train Bohnert, head of global partnerships at of the respondents were males in the 20-40 age stations and condo gates over the last two years. Mobike. In an informal survey by Thomson group. About half of the respondents used the The bikes, which users can rent for around S$1 Reuters across Beijing, Shanghai, Seoul, Taipei bikes to commute to work or school. ($0.74) an hour or less via mobile phone apps, and Singapore, 60 bike-share users talked Singapore had the highest percentage of are meant to complete the last kilometer or about how the services had changed their trav- people who changed from a private car or taxi to more of a journey, and are also being used for el patterns. Eighteen percent of survey respon- a bicycle. Taipei came in second, and Beijing and VARENA: In this grab taken from video, young boys collect mushrooms at the forag- outings in urban parks and trips to the super- dents - 11 out of 60 - said they were using the Shanghai tied for third. All the respondents in ing festival, some 60 kilometers (nearly 40 miles) south of the capital of Vilnius, market. The two biggest bike-share operators, bikes instead of taking cars, taxis or motorcy- Seoul switched from public transport or walking Lithuania.—AP China-owned Ofo and Mobike, plan to be in cles, a sign that some are moving away from to the app-leased bikes, although the city- more than 200 cities by end-2017 and end-2018, carbon-intensive vehicles. backed service there used docking stations On the hunt: Lithuanians respectively. They will have a combined total of The other 82 percent would have walked or instead of free-range bikes. “It’s super cheap and nearly 30 million bikes in operation by the end taken public transport, the survey showed. convenient and there are stations everywhere. race to pick mushrooms of this year, having together attracted more than Among the five cities, users in Beijing were the It’s easy to use and it’s a bit of exercise too,” said $2 billion in funding. most committed, with six out of 15 respondents office worker Park Yongwon, 30, who cycled VARENA: Hundreds of Lithuanians ran used in many dishes to add special flavor “We will consider expanding into any city riding shared bikes daily, and the other nine 1,000 km in the past year. —Reuters around with baskets and buckets Saturday to meat, fish and potatoes. More than four in a southeastern pine forest. Why you ask? hundred edible varieties can be found in It’s the national championship of wild Lithuania’s forests, including edible bole- mushroom picking - a competition always tus, slippery jacks, chanterelles, blewits held on the last Saturday in September. and morels. That’s when conditions are “not too dry, not The festival Saturday took place 60 kilo- too wet, the humidity is perfect,” explained meters south of the capital, Vilnius, close to mushroom hunter Janina Juodine. A rainy, the border with Belarus. It drew thousands relatively warm summer created ideal con- of onlookers as well as local mushroom ditions for the foraging festival in Lithuania, sellers dressed in Lithuanian folk costumes where forests cover more than 33 percent - colorful knee-long skirts with embroi- of the Baltic country and mushroom-hunt- dered aprons and woven sashes. “This is a ing is considered the second-most popular great event,” contest judge Rimute sport after basketball. Avizininene said. She said 21 teams had “Walking between trees and looking for participated, adding that the largest picked big brown mushrooms is a great way of edible boletus - known in the country as spending a Saturday,” said Julius Sostakas, the king of Lithuania’s forests - weighed an IT engineer from Vilnius. “It is a part of 621 grams (22 ounces). A local team called our cultural heritage.” Mushrooms - fresh, Mushroom Nightmares won Saturday’s KANUMA, TOCHIGI PREFECTURE, Japan: This picture shows an instructor (left) interacting with an elderly dried, salted or marinated - are considered contest by delivering 58 kilograms (128 KANUMA, TOCHIGI PREFECTURE, Japan: This picture shows an instructor addressing an essential element in Lithuanian cuisine, pounds) of mushrooms— AP student at a driving school for senior citizens, managed by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF), in Kanuma, participants of a driving school for senior citizens, managed by the Japan Tochigi prefecture.—AFP photos Automobile Federation (JAF), in Kanuma, Tochigi prefecture. As health bill teeters, Medicaid recipients watch nervously Old and deadly: Japan’s drive WASHINGTON: With the latest state Sen. Joseph Vitale, a Democrat, who Republican health care overhaul teeter- says the legislation would have been dev- to beat elderly road menace ing near collapse, one group in particular astating for people who are covered is watching with heightened anxiety. The through the Medicaid expansion. KANUMA: A series of fatal crashes caused by percent of the population by 2060, there are dents, while the figure stood at 53 percent for debate in Congress is personal for many “They can now go to sleep at night elderly drivers in Japan has left authorities des- increasing fears for public safety. Authorities in those aged 75 and older. “They think they can of those who gained coverage through like the rest of us who have health insur- perately grappling for ways to clamp down on a some regions have resorted to novel ways to avoid accidents with their driving skills,” he said. Medicaid in the 31 states that expanded ance, knowing that if something happens problem that experts warn is only going to get encourage some of the 4.8 million drivers over Authorities have taken steps with legislation, the program under former President to them or something befalls a family worse as the population ages. Drivers over 65 75 in Japan to hand over their licence. These introducing laws in March forcing drivers aged Barack Obama’s Affordable Care Act. member,” state Sen. Joseph Vitale, a were responsible for 965 deadly accidents in include deals for cheaper funerals and discounts 75 or older to pass cognitive tests when renew- Alan Purser, who lives in eastern Democrat from New Jersey said Tuesday, Japan-more than a quarter of the total-in 2016, on ramen noodles, along with more convention- ing their licences. Arkansas, credits expanded Medicaid “that they have access to affordable care according to the National Police Agency. In one al methods such as cheap or free taxis and bus- And carmakers are trying to do their bit as well, with saving his life, after a routine doc- and quality care.” States signed up for the of the most shocking cases, an 87-year-old es. But 67-year-old Kiyotaka Ukita, also taking installing features such as a system that stalls accel- tor’s visit ended with him being hospital- Medicaid expansion under the promise crashed his truck into a group of schoolchildren part in the course, scoffed at these efforts. eration if the driver steps on the gas pedal instead ized and treated for multiple blood clots that the federal government would pick killing a six-year-old and injuring others, “Free bus tickets aren’t attractive at all for older of the brake. But this is being rolled out only grad- in both lungs. The 60-year-old diabetic up the vast majority of the costs. prompting demands for action on the issue. drivers to return their licences,” said Ukita, sport- ually and only for new models. According to the said he would not be able to afford his Experts and officials in several of the In tranquil countryside outside the town of ing a lengthy shock-white goatee beard.”The transport ministry, the system to slow acceleration insulin medication because he does not states that opted for it said that under the Kanuma, north of Tokyo, on a track surrounded advantage (of driving your own car) is that you was installed in around one third of 4.4 million new qualify for traditional Medicaid. GOP plan they would not have the ability can go wherever and whenever you want. I hope I passenger cars manufactured in 2015. “I am going to be up a creek if it goes to cover the costs of all those who bene- by rice paddies and mountains, a group of elder- through,” he said. The Medicaid expansion fited. “I don’t want to have to look those ly drivers are taking public safety into their own can continue driving until I die,” he said. Most brought health insurance to some 11 mil- people in the eye and say you are losing hands and completing refresher courses behind accidents caused by elderly drivers result from ‘I’m fine now’ lion lower-income Americans, helping your health insurance,” said Nevada state the wheel. The pensioners pilot their cars ginger- them mixing up the accelerator and the brake or Tokoro believes the problem will not be drive the nation’s uninsured rate to just 9 Assemblyman Michael Sprinkle, a ly between cones while instructors bark out losing control of the steering wheel, the police solved with cognitive tests or bribing older driv- percent. That program would have ended Democrat. In his state, more than 300,000 orders via loudspeaker through open car win- agency said, calling it a “pressing problem.” ers to return their licenses. “It’s inconvenient in in three years under the initial version of people gained health insurance through dows as high-tech sensors measure reaction Masato Zenyouji, an instructor at the Japan rural Japan and you cannot do anything without the Republican’s latest health care bill, the expansion, which extended coverage times for emergency stops. Automobile Federation (JAF), said one of the a car. That’s why (older drivers) won’t let go of triggering widespread uncertainty for to more lower-income Americans by rais- Emiko Takahashi, a 73-year-old woman taking problems lay in the declining ability of older their permits,” he explained. Tokoro said the both recipients and states facing the ing the income limit. Most were adults the course, admitted she had “no confidence” in drivers “to instantly make a judgement, such as government needed to foster an environment in prospect of winding down their coverage. with no children at home. her driving as she got older. “That’s why I came suddenly hitting the brake.” “When the speed which older people can lead a normal life even The latest GOP effort appeared to be Kentucky was another state seeing big here,” she said, adding that she has no choice increases, their field of view narrows down, after handing in their licence. doomed late Monday when Republican gains under Obama’s health care law, its but to drive her ailing husband, seven years her which could lead to accidents,” he said. The driv- He cited as examples reasonably priced taxi- Sen Susan Collins of Maine announced uninsured rate dropping from 14.3 per- senior, to hospital every day. Takahashi said her ing course attempts to address this by physical sharing services and a drive to encourage older her opposition, citing in part the pro- cent before it took effect to 5.1 percent ability to concentrate had declined as she aged exercises such as stretching as well as drills to residents to move to city centres from suburban posed cuts to Medicaid that she last year. The 64 percent decline was the and her reaction times have waned. “I have improve cognitive functions. areas. Japanese IT firm DeNA has been testing described as “devastating.” With largest of any state, according to data become slow,” she admitted. Another factor in accidents is overconfidence self-driving cars to provide a new means of Democrats united in opposition, the only from the US Census Bureau. Nearly all from drivers who have often been behind the transportation in ageing rural communities by way Republicans can revive the bill is to that gain was because Kentucky’s former ‘Drive until I die’ wheel for decades, said Masabumi Tokoro, a pro- 2020. Back at the track, Takahashi said she was alter it in ways they hope will change Democratic governor opted to expand Fatal accidents caused by geriatric drivers fessor at Rissho University who has been study- hoping to continue driving until 85 years old. opposing senators’ minds. The bill’s Medicaid, which provided coverage to now account for 28.3 percent of the total, up ing elderly drivers. According to a survey Tokoro She added: “I think I can keep driving if I study demise is welcome news to New Jersey 461,000 Kentuckians. —AP from 17.9 percent a decade ago, NPA records conducted, 10 percent of drivers in their 30s and become confident. I’ll stop driving if I feel I state. And with the elderly set to account for 40 thought they were capable of avoiding acci- have health problems.”—AFP WHAT’S ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017

Cadillac hosts emerging artists at art night 2017

s patrons of the arts and culture, and as for Cadillac Middle East, to judge the awards. Cadillac Alghanim’s General Manager, Mohamed Apart of their outreach program, Cadillac The audience also had a say in the voting and Eltalkhawi, for their contributions, efforts and Alghanim organized an art exhibition in each attendee was handed a link where they artistic talents and each received the gift of a two- their showroom in Al-Rai for six local emerging could cast their votes. The final combined scores day test drive of a Cadillac. artists: Omar Jassim Althafiri, Zainab Dashti, of the judges and audience determined the win- Eltalkhawi commented “We are very proud of Yaqoub Yousef Al-Ali, Ahmad Muqeem, Mariam ners. Cadillac Alghanim awarded the first two the youth in Kuwait and the artistic talents they Hamad Al-Ghaith and Anwar Nasser. winners with a 3-night, all expenses paid, busi- exhibit, it is indeed Cadillac’s ethos to collaborate To further encourage the artists, Cadillac ness trip to Dubai with tickets to attend an art with them to highlight the importance of culture Alghanim held a competition where each artist exhibition and ‘Sole DXB’, a highly-regarded and the arts in building the future. I want to take submitted a work depicting one of Cadillac’s lifestyle event in the city. The first winner also this opportunity to thank our esteemed judging models. A panel of highly renowned established received a cash prize of KD500. panel who have given their time in the promotion First Place Winner Ahmad Muqeem Kuwaiti artists including Redha Salem, Suheila Al- The first prize went to Ahmad Muqeem, and of the arts, and to all those who have attended Najdi and Ibrahim Al-Atiyi were joined by the second prize went to Omar Jassim Althafiri. today for their belief in art as a mission. We look Nadeem Ghareeb, Regional Marketing Manager All 6 participants where commemorated by forward to more collaborative events to come.”

Second Place Winner Omar Jassim Althafiri

Soul and Spice Restaurant at Courtyard by Marriott Kuwait launches new menu

oul and Spice, the renowned Indian Restaurant at the The new menu SCourtyard by Marriott Kuwait, held an opening cere- includes a large selection mony to launch its brand new menu. The event was of vegetarian and non- attended by His Excellency Sunil Jain, the Ambassador of vegetarian dishes from India to Kuwait, representatives of different companies in mouth-watering starters Kuwait and the local media. to scrumptious main The attendees were treated to a mouthwatering selec- courses and desserts. In tion of food and beverages, including laal mass, chicken addition to a range of curry, shrimps biryani and a lot more. The invitees were curries and dal, along impressed with the rich variety of food, breathtaking with biryani and freshly dÈcor and comfortable seating, which make ‘Soul and baked naan. Spice Restaurant’ the ideal venue to enjoy the true flavors “The Indian cuisine is Al-Mulla Exchange celebrates of India. very rich in terms of fla- Soul and Spice Restaurant offers a delectable approach vors, colors and heritage.” Onam with customers to contemporary modern Indian cuisine, which is prepared Said George Aoun, The hotel’s General Manager. “Through using a unique blend of authentic Indian spices and craft- our newly launched menu, we want to introduce the most l-Mulla Exchange celebrated ed with the finest seasonal ingredients. The result is an authentic and popular Indian delicacies at very affordable AOnam in a grand manner for exquisite creation that is sure to delight the senses. prices.” he added. their customers at American International School. A star cast featur- ing Suraj Santhosh, Ranjini Jose, Jithin Raj and troupe, along with renowned comedians Manoj Guinness and Pandalam Ullass enthralled customers for the three hour period. The first program, held on Friday September 22nd, had George Varghese as the Chief Guest. George Varghese was the first ever customer of Al-Mulla Exchange when they started opera- tions nearly 16 years ago in 2001. The second day chief guest on Saturday September 23rd was prominent doctor Dr Unnikrishnan Nayanar who works as ENT Surgeon and Medical Director at Al-Nahil International Clinic KUWAIT. Both of them complimented on the growth of Al-Mulla Exchange and the fascinating programs that were being showcased time to time in Kuwait. The logistics support for the pro- gram came from City Van while the printing of the cards was taken care by German Press. With 72 branches in Kuwait and steadily growing month on month, Al-Mulla Exchange has roared to the forefront of remittances in Kuwait. Through innovation, excel- lent customer service, technological upgradation and best rates in the mar- ket Al-Mulla Exchange is the Exchange company of choice for anyone want- ing to send a remittance or exchange currencies. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 TV PROGRAMS

11:30 Alex & Co. 16:50 Disney11 10:10 American Pickers 13:00 Breadwinners 17:02 NASAʼs Unexplained Files 18:00 Doctors 11:55 Disney Mickey Mouse 17:15 Mech-X4 11:00 Car Hunters 13:24 Sanjay And Craig 17:50 Junkyard Wars 18:30 EastEnders 12:00 Rolling With The Ronks 17:40 Marvelʼs Spider-Man 11:25 Car Hunters 13:48 Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn 18:40 Mythbusters 19:05 Father Brown 12:15 Lolirock 18:05 Milo Murphyʼs Law 11:50 Duck Dynasty 14:12 Henry Danger 00:40 Star 19:30 Hacking The Wild 20:00 Poldark 13:05 Star Darlings 18:30 Marvelʼs Ant-Man 12:15 Duck Dynasty 14:36 The Thundermans 01:30 Riverdale 20:20 How Do They Do It? 21:00 Last Tango In Halifax 00:45 Treehouse Masters 13:10 Miraculous Tales Of Ladybug 18:35 Lab Rats 13:05 Counting Cars 15:00 School Of Rock 02:20 The Unit 20:45 Food Factory 21:55 Prime Suspect: Tennison 01:40 Tigers Attack And Cat Noir 19:00 Kirby Buckets 13:30 Time Team 15:24 Breadwinners 03:20 Chicago Justice 21:10 The Unexplained Files 22:45 New Blood 02:35 Swamp Brothers 14:00 Jessie 19:25 Walk The Prank 14:20 Mountain Men 15:48 SpongeBob SquarePants 04:10 Training Day 22:00 Hacking The Wild 23:45 The Secret Of Crickley Hall 03:00 Swamp Brothers 14:25 Lolirock 19:50 Marvelʼs Rocket And Groot 15:10 Lost In Transmission 16:12 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 05:00 Good Morning America 22:50 Junkyard Wars 03:25 Pit Bulls & Parolees 14:50 The Zhuzhus 19:55 Right Now Kapow 16:00 Storage Wars Texas 16:36 The Loud House 07:00 The View 04:15 I Survived An Animal Attack 15:15 Elena Of Avalor 20:20 Mech-X4 16:25 Storage Wars Texas 17:00 Regal Academy 07:45 The Chew 05:02 Wildest Indochina 15:40 Stuck In The Middle 20:45 Disney11 16:50 Pawn Stars 17:24 Winx Club 08:30 Star 05:49 Untamed & Uncut 16:05 Liv And Maddie 21:10 Gravity Falls 17:15 Pawn Stars 17:48 Hunter Street 09:20 Chicago Justice 06:36 Going Ape 16:30 Whisker Haven Tales With 21:35 Marvelʼs Ant-Man 17:40 Mountain Men 18:12 Henry Danger 00:00 Riverdale 10:10 Training Day 00:20 Tina Malone: Pregnant At 50 07:00 Going Ape The Palace Pets 21:40 Disney Mickey Mouse 18:30 Swamp People 18:36 Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn 01:00 Taken 11:00 The Unit 01:05 An Hour To Save Your Life 07:25 Swamp Brothers 16:35 Bunkʼd 21:45 Lab Rats 19:20 Mountain Men 19:00 School Of Rock 01:50 American Crime 11:45 Taken 01:50 Monsters Inside Me 08:15 Treehouse Masters 17:00 K.C. Undercover 22:10 Lab Rats 20:10 Cars That Made America 19:24 Game Shakers 02:40 Star 12:30 The View 02:35 The Undateables 09:10 Tigers Attack 17:25 Miraculous Tales Of Ladybug 22:35 Phineas And Ferb 21:50 Forged In Fire 19:48 The Thundermans 03:30 Riverdale 13:15 The Chew 03:20 Sister Wives 10:05 Wildest Indochina And Cat Noir 23:00 Programmes Start At 6:00am 22:40 Forged In Fire 20:12 SpongeBob SquarePants 04:20 The Unit 14:00 Live Good Morning America 04:05 Toddlers & Tiaras 11:00 Swamp Brothers 17:50 Girl Meets World 23:30 Cars That Made America 20:36 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 05:20 Chicago Justice 16:00 Training Day 04:50 Your Style In His Hands 11:55 Pit Bulls & Parolees 18:15 Disney Mickey Mouse 21:00 The Loud House 06:10 Training Day 17:00 Chicago Justice 05:35 Say Yes To The Dress: 12:50 After The Attack 18:20 Bizaardvark 21:24 Sanjay And Craig 07:00 Good Morning America 18:00 The Unit Bridesmaids 13:45 Tigers Attack 18:45 Best Friends Whenever 21:48 Rabbids Invasion 09:00 The View 19:00 The Voice 06:00 Obsessive Compulsive 14:40 Wildest Indochina 19:10 Tsum Tsum Shorts 22:12 Breadwinners 09:45 The Chew 20:00 The Flash Cleaners 15:35 Untamed & Uncut 19:15 Liv And Maddie 22:36 Harvey Beaks 10:30 Star 21:00 Star 06:45 Oprah: Where Are They 16:30 Treehouse Masters 19:40 Elena Of Avalor 00:05 WAGs Miami 23:00 SpongeBob SquarePants 11:20 Chicago Justice 00:45 Fish Of The Day 22:00 Star Now? 17:25 Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet 20:05 Jessie 00:55 WAGs Miami 23:24 SpongeBob SquarePants 12:10 Training Day 01:10 Chocolate Covered 23:00 Taken 07:30 Oprahʼs Master Class 18:20 Treehouse Masters 20:30 Cracke 01:50 E! News 23:48 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 13:00 The Unit 01:40 Worldʼs Greatest Food 23:50 American Crime 08:15 Sister Wives 19:15 When Turkeys Attack 20:35 K.C. Undercover 02:50 Celebrity Style Story 13:45 Taken Markets 09:00 Cake Boss 20:10 Swamp Brothers 21:00 The Zhuzhus 03:20 Celebrity Style Story 14:30 The View 02:35 Tripping Out With Alie & 09:25 Toddlers & Tiaras 20:38 Swamp Brothers 21:25 Stuck In The Middle 03:50 So Cosmo 15:15 The Chew Georgia 10:10 Obsessive Compulsive 21:05 Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet 21:50 Sunny Bunnies 04:40 So Cosmo 16:00 Live Good Morning America 05:30 Celebrity Style Story 03:00 Carnival Eats Cleaners 22:00 Treehouse Masters 00:20 James And The Giant Peach 18:00 Training Day 06:00 EJ NYC 03:30 Miguelʼs Tropical Kitchen 10:55 Too Ugly For Love? 22:55 Wildest Middle East 01:50 A Sunday Horse 19:00 Chicago Justice 06:55 E! News 03:55 One Man & His Campervan 00:01 Max & Ruby 11:40 Outdaughtered: Busby 23:50 Untamed & Uncut 03:45 The Wild 20:00 The Unit 07:10 EJ NYC 04:25 My Restaurant In India 00:25 Ben & Hollyʼs Little Kingdom Quints 05:15 Lilo & Stitch 2 21:00 The Voice 08:10 E! News: Daily Pop 04:50 Chocolate Covered 00:36 Ben & Hollyʼs Little Kingdom 12:25 The Undateables 06:35 James And The Giant Peach 22:00 The Flash 09:10 Keeping Up With The 05:20 Chocolate Covered 00:47 The Day Henry Met 13:10 Say Yes To The Dress UK 08:05 A Sunday Horse 23:00 Star Kardashians 05:45 John Torodeʼs Malaysian 00:52 The Day Henry Met 13:32 Say Yes To The Dress UK 10:00 The Dog Lover 00:00 Henry Hugglemonster 17:00 Keeping Up With The Adventure 00:57 Blaze And The Monster 13:55 Toddlers & Tiaras 11:50 The Wild 00:00 The Jail Atlanta: 60 Days In 00:15 Calimero Kardashians 06:15 Around The World In 80 Machines 14:40 Sister Wives 13:20 Hercules (1997) 01:00 It Takes A Killer 00:30 Art Attack 18:00 Keeping Up With The Dishes 01:19 Blaze And The Monster 15:25 Too Ugly For Love? 15:00 Brave 02:00 Killers: Behind The Myth 00:55 Zou Kardashians 07:10 Worldʼs Greatest Food Machines 16:10 Love At First Swipe 16:40 Race To Witch Mountain 03:00 Evil Up Close 01:05 Loopdidoo 19:00 E! News Markets 01:41 Zack & Quack 16:35 Cake Boss 00:00 WWE 205 Live 18:25 High School Musical 3: 04:00 The Jail Atlanta: 60 Days In 01:20 Henry Hugglemonster 20:00 Life Of Kylie 08:05 Tripping Out With Alie & 02:03 Shimmer And Shine 17:00 Oprah: Where Are They 01:00 UCI BMX World Senior Year 05:00 It Takes A Killer 01:35 Calimero 20:30 Life Of Kylie Georgia 02:25 Olive The Ostrich Now? Championship Highlights 20:25 Eight Below 06:00 Cold Case Files 01:50 Zou 21:00 Life Of Kylie 08:30 Carnival Eats 02:30 Olive The Ostrich 17:50 Obsessive Compulsive 02:00 WWE Afterburn 22:35 Hercules (1997) 08:00 It Takes A Killer 02:05 Art Attack 21:30 Life Of Kylie 09:00 Miguelʼs Tropical Kitchen 02:35 Paw Patrol Cleaners 03:00 Live WWE Smackdown 09:00 Homicide Hunter 02:30 Henry Hugglemonster 22:00 Hollywood Medium With 09:25 One Man & His Campervan 02:58 Little Charmers 18:50 Your Style In His Hands 05:00 World Of X Games 10:00 Campus Nightmares 02:40 Loopdidoo Tyler Henry 09:55 My Restaurant In India 03:10 Ben & Hollyʼs Little Kingdom 19:40 Say Yes To The Dress: 05:30 World Of X Games 13:00 Holloway: Women Behind 02:55 Henry Hugglemonster 23:00 E! News 10:20 Chocolate Covered 03:22 Dora The Explorer Bridesmaids 06:00 Pro Bull Riders Bars 03:10 Art Attack 23:15 Reunion Road Trip 10:50 Chocolate Covered 03:44 Max & Ruby 20:10 Cake Boss 07:00 WWE 205 Live 03:35 Loopdidoo 11:15 John Torodeʼs Malaysian 04:06 The Day Henry Met 08:00 WWE Raw 14:00 It Takes A Killer 23:40 Eric And Jessie 01:25 The Last Rescue 20:35 Cake Boss 15:00 Cold Case Files 03:50 Calimero Adventure 04:11 Nella The Princess Knight 21:00 My 600lb Life: Where Are 10:30 ESL Pro League 04:05 Art Attack 11:45 Around The World In 80 04:23 Nella The Princess Knight 03:20 The Huntsman: Winterʼs War 14:00 WWE Main Event 16:00 Gangs Of Britain With Gary & 05:20 Batman: The Killing Joke They Now? Martin Kemp 04:30 Henry Hugglemonster Dishes 04:35 Shimmer And Shine 21:50 The Day I Almost Died 15:00 WWE Smackdown 04:45 Zou 12:40 Gokʼs Chinese Takeaway 04:59 Wallykazam! 06:45 Warcraft: The Beginning 16:30 World Of X Games 17:00 Nightmare In Suburbia 08:55 The Hunger Games: 22:40 Bizarre ER 18:00 Britainʼs Biggest Heists 05:00 Art Attack 13:35 Carnival Eats 05:21 Zack & Quack 17:00 WWE Vintage 05:30 Henry Hugglemonster 14:00 Testing The Menu With Nic 05:32 The Day Henry Met Mockingjay Part II 18:00 Pro Bull Riders 19:00 It Takes A Killer 11:15 Batman: Return Of The 20:00 Homicide Hunter 05:45 Loopdidoo 00:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Watt 05:38 Blaze And The Monster 19:00 UCI BMX World 06:00 Zou 01:00 Man Fire Food 14:30 Miguelʼs Tropical Kitchen Machines Caped Crusaders Championship Highlights 21:00 Cold Case Files 12:35 Tracers 22:00 My Haunted House 06:15 Calimero 02:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 14:55 Miguelʼs Tropical Kitchen 06:00 Rusty Rivets 20:00 WWE Smackdown 06:30 Loopdidoo 02:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 15:25 Chocolate Covered 06:13 Paw Patrol 14:10 Warcraft: The Beginning 21:30 World Of X Games 23:00 Escaping Evil: My Life In A 16:15 The Huntsman: Winterʼs War Cult 06:45 Henry Hugglemonster 03:00 Man Fire Food 15:50 Chocolate Covered 06:37 Dora The Explorer 00:00 Bizarre Foods America 22:00 Pro Bull Riders 07:00 Sofia The First 03:30 Man Fire Food 16:20 Lee Chanʼs World Food Tour 07:00 Zack & Quack 18:10 Twister 01:00 Mysteries At The Museum 23:00 UCI BMX World 07:30 The Lion Guard 04:00 Chopped 16:45 John Torodeʼs Malaysian 07:21 Bubble Guppies 20:05 Entrapment 02:00 Bizarre Foods: Delicious Championship Highlights 08:00 Mickey And The Roadster 05:00 Guyʼs Grocery Games Adventure 07:44 Blaze And The Monster 22:00 Everly Destinations Racers 06:00 Barefoot Contessa: Back To 17:15 Around The World In 80 Machines 23:35 REC 3 Genesis 03:00 Booze Traveler 08:30 Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital Basics Dishes 08:07 Paw Patrol 04:00 Booze Traveler 00:05 Destroyed In Seconds 09:00 PJ Masks 06:50 Anna Olson: Fresh 18:10 My Pacific Quest 08:30 Shimmer And Shine 05:00 Bizarre Foods America 00:30 Pick A Puppy 09:30 Miles From Tomorrow 07:15 The Kitchen 19:05 Chocolate Covered 08:53 Nella The Princess Knight 06:00 Mysteries At The Museum 00:00 Legends Football League 01:20 Incredible Food Race 10:00 Jake And The Never Land 08:05 The Pioneer Woman 19:30 Chocolate Covered 09:05 Nella The Princess Knight 07:00 House Hunters International 01:30 UFC Ultimate Knockouts 02:10 Worldʼs Top 5 Pirates 20:00 Lee Chanʼs World Food Tour 09:15 The Day Henry Met 08:30 The Pioneer Woman 01:35 Stop! Or My Mom Will Shoot 09:00 Texas Flip And Move 02:00 UIM F1 H20 World 03:00 Finding Bigfoot 10:30 Mickey And The Roadster 20:30 John Torodeʼs Malaysian 09:22 Paw Patrol 08:55 Sibaʼs Table 03:10 Liberal Arts 10:00 Hotel Impossible Championship Highlights 03:50 Destroyed In Seconds Racers Adventure 09:45 Rusty Rivets 09:25 Sibaʼs Table 04:55 Other Plans 11:00 Mysteries At The Museum 02:30 UIM F1 H20 World 04:40 How Itʼs Made 11:00 PJ Masks 21:00 Around The World In 80 09:57 Wallykazam! 09:55 Cooking For Real 06:25 Big Mommas: Like Father, 12:00 Expedition Unknown Championship Highlights 05:30 Pick A Puppy 11:30 My Friends Tigger & Pooh Dishes 10:20 Fresh Beat Band Of Spies 10:25 Cooking For Real Like Son 13:00 House Hunters International 03:00 FIM Speedway Grand Prix 06:20 Mythbusters 12:00 Goldie & Bear 22:00 My Pacific Quest 10:42 Zack & Quack 10:55 The Kitchen 08:15 Liberal Arts 13:30 House Hunters International Highlights 07:00 Awesome Adventures 12:30 Sofia The First 22:55 Gokʼs Chinese Takeaway 10:52 Team Umizoomi 11:45 Bake With Anna Olson 10:00 Other Plans 14:00 House Hunters International 04:00 V8 Supercar Series 07:25 Adventure 8: Zoo Games 13:00 Jake And The Never Land 23:50 Carnival Eats 11:15 Shimmer And Shine 12:10 The Pioneer Woman 11:30 Big Mommas: Like Father, 14:30 House Hunters International Highlights 07:50 Americaʼs Cutest Pets Pirates 11:39 Shimmer And Shine 12:35 The Pioneer Woman Like Son 15:00 Big Time RV 05:00 UFC Unleashed 08:40 How Itʼs Made 13:30 PJ Masks 12:01 Max & Ruby 13:00 Sibaʼs Table 13:20 Holiday Joy 15:30 Big Time RV 05:50 UFC Fight Replay 09:30 Nextworld 14:00 My Friends Tigger & Pooh 12:25 Ben & Hollyʼs Little Kingdom 13:30 Sibaʼs Table 14:55 Sister Act 2: Back In The 16:00 Texas Flip And Move 06:00 Motul FIM Superbike 10:20 Mythbusters 14:30 The Lion Guard 12:36 Ben & Hollyʼs Little Kingdom 14:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Habit 17:00 Hotel Impossible Highlights 11:10 Americaʼs Cutest Pets 15:00 Sheriff Callieʼs Wild West 12:47 The Day Henry Met 14:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 16:45 Ride 18:00 Bizarre Foods America 07:00 UIM F1 H20 World 12:00 Finding Bigfoot 15:30 Mickey And The Roadster 15:00 Chopped 12:52 The Day Henry Met 19:00 House Hunters International 00:10 Big Fish, Texas 18:20 Joe Somebody Championship Highlights 12:50 How Itʼs Made Racers 16:00 The Kitchen 12:57 Blaze And The Monster 19:30 House Hunters International 01:00 Wicked Tuna 20:00 A Thousand Words 07:30 UIM F1 H20 World 13:40 Pick A Puppy 16:00 Sofia The First 17:00 Cooking For Real Machines 20:00 House Hunters International 02:00 Air Crash Investigation 21:35 Absolutely Anything Championship Highlights 14:30 Awesome Adventures 16:25 Miles From Tomorrow 17:30 Cooking For Real 13:19 Blaze And The Monster 20:30 House Hunters International 03:00 Seconds From Disaster 23:05 Adventures Of A Pizza Guy 08:00 FIA World Touring Car 14:55 Adventure 8: Zoo Games 16:50 Doc McStuffins 18:00 Chopped Machines 21:00 Expedition Unknown 03:30 Seconds From Disaster Championship Highlights 15:20 Destroyed In Seconds 17:00 Doc McStuffins 19:00 Guyʼs Grocery Games 13:41 Zack & Quack 22:00 Expedition Unknown: Hunt 04:00 Big Fish, Texas 08:30 FIA World Touring Car 16:10 The Big Brain Theory 17:15 The Lion Guard 20:00 Chopped 14:03 Shimmer And Shine For The Yeti 05:00 Britainʼs Greatest Machines Championship Highlights 17:00 Donʼt Drive Here 17:45 Sofia The First 21:00 Chopped South Africa 14:25 Olive The Ostrich 23:00 The Road Less Travelled With Chris Barrie 09:00 V8 Supercar Series 17:50 Hello World! 18:15 Goldie & Bear 22:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 14:30 Olive The Ostrich Highlights 18:40 Mythbusters 18:45 Mickey And The Roadster 06:00 Salvage Code Red 14:35 Paw Patrol 22:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 01:20 Whatʼs Love Got To Do With It 10:00 UFC Unleashed 19:30 How Itʼs Made Racers 07:00 Genius 14:58 Little Charmers 23:00 Chopped 03:25 Land Of Mine 10:50 UFC Fight Replay 20:20 Destroyed In Seconds 19:15 Little Mermaid 08:00 Dog Whisperer 15:10 Ben & Hollyʼs Little Kingdom 05:20 Jappeloup 11:00 FIM Speedway Grand Prix 21:10 Donʼt Drive Here 19:45 PJ Masks 09:00 Britainʼs Greatest Machines 15:22 Dora The Explorer With Chris Barrie 07:30 Operation Avalanche Highlights 22:00 Animal Nation With Anthony 20:15 The Lion Guard 15:44 Max & Ruby 12:00 FIA World Touring Car 10:00 Rare 09:15 Boychoir 00:05 Tosh.0 Anderson 20:45 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 16:06 The Day Henry Met Championship Highlights 11:00 Inside The Hunt For The 11:05 Land Of Mine 00:30 Tosh.0 21:15 Goldie & Bear 16:11 Nella The Princess Knight 12:30 FIA World Touring Car Boston Bombers 13:00 A Country Called Home 00:55 Russell Howardʼs Stand Up 21:45 Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital 16:23 Nella The Princess Knight Championship Highlights 13:00 Salvage Code Red 14:40 Healing Central 22:15 Little Mermaid 16:35 Shimmer And Shine 13:00 FIM Endurance World 00:10 Chopping Block 14:00 Dog Whisperer 16:40 New York Stories 01:20 Russell Howardʼs Stand Up 22:45 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 16:59 Wallykazam! Championship Highlights 01:00 Emmerdale 15:00 Genius 18:45 12 Angry Men Central 23:15 PJ Masks 17:21 Zack & Quack 14:00 TCR International Series 01:30 Coronation Street 16:00 Nazi World War Weird 20:30 Never Let Me Go 01:45 Live At The Apollo 00:30 The Coroner: I Speak For 17:32 The Day Henry Met Highlights 02:00 Coronation Street 17:00 Pope vs Hitler 22:20 The Survivalist 02:35 Another Period The Dead 17:38 Blaze And The Monster 14:30 TCR International Series 02:30 The Chase 19:00 Attack Of The Zeppelins 03:00 The Daily Show With Trevor 01:20 Murder In Lehigh Valley: Machines Highlights 03:25 Doctor Thorne 20:00 Nazi World War Weird Noah Keith Morrison... 18:00 Rusty Rivets 15:00 MotoGP Highlights 04:20 The Jonathan Ross Show 20:50 Pope vs Hitler 03:25 Disorderly Conduct: Video 03:00 Forbidden: Dying For Love 18:13 Paw Patrol 16:00 Motul FIM Superbike 05:15 Couples Come Dine With Me 22:30 Attack Of The Zeppelins On Patrol 03:48 Disappeared 18:37 Dora The Explorer Highlights 06:10 Chopping Block 00:20 The Incredible Adventures Of 04:15 Lip Sync Battle 04:36 The Perfect Murder 19:00 Zack & Quack 17:00 FIM Speedway Grand Prix 07:05 The Chase Professor Branestawm 04:40 Ridiculousness 05:24 Nowhere To Hide 00:20 Misfit Garage 19:21 Bubble Guppies Highlights 08:00 Doctor Thorne 01:25 Ducktales: The Movie 05:05 Disaster Date 06:12 Obsession: Dark Desires 01:05 The Island With Bear Grylls 19:44 Blaze And The Monster 18:00 UFC Unleashed 09:00 The Jonathan Ross Show 02:45 Kim Possible: So The Drama 05:30 Sweat Inc. 07:00 Disappeared 01:50 Bear Grylls: Mission Survive Machines 19:00 UFC Ultimate Knockouts 10:00 Couples Come Dine With Me 04:05 Krazzy Planet 06:20 Frankenfood 07:50 Murder Chose Me 02:35 Boy To Man 20:07 Paw Patrol 19:30 UFC Reloaded 10:55 Chopping Block 05:20 Big Baby 06:45 Frankenfood 08:40 Nowhere To Hide 03:20 Fast Nʼ Loud 20:30 Shimmer And Shine 22:00 Legends Football League 11:50 The Chase 06:50 Ghosthunters On Icy Trails 07:15 Disorderly Conduct: Video 09:30 Obsession: Dark Desires 04:05 The Island With Bear Grylls: 00:20 Secrets Of The King Cobra 20:53 Nella The Princess Knight 23:30 UFC Top 10 12:45 Emmerdale 08:35 Funny Little Cars On Patrol 10:20 Blood Relatives USA 01:10 Monster Fish 21:05 Nella The Princess Knight 13:15 Coronation Street 09:40 Ploddy Police Car On The 08:05 Disaster Date 11:10 Disappeared 04:50 Alaska: The Last Frontier 02:00 Worldʼs Deadliest Snakes 21:15 The Day Henry Met 13:45 Coronation Street Case 08:30 Impractical Jokers 12:00 Disappeared 05:35 How Do They Do It? 02:50 Monster Fish 21:22 Paw Patrol 14:15 Chopping Block 11:00 Hotel For Dogs 08:55 Ridiculousness 12:50 The Perfect Murder 06:00 Deadliest Catch 03:45 Man V. Animal (Cutdowns) 21:45 Rusty Rivets 15:10 The Chase 12:40 Ducktales: The Movie 09:20 Impractical Jokers UK 13:40 Nowhere To Hide 06:45 Misfit Garage 04:10 Man V. Animal (Cutdowns) 21:57 Wallykazam! 16:00 Midsomer Murders 14:00 Kim Possible: So The Drama 09:45 Lip Sync Battle 14:30 Obsession: Dark Desires 07:30 Fast Nʼ Loud 04:40 Caught In The Act 22:20 Fresh Beat Band Of Spies 00:00 PGA Web.Com Tour 17:50 Couples Come Dine With Me 15:20 Poohʼs Heffalump Halloween 10:10 Ridiculousness 15:20 Blood Relatives 08:15 The Island With Bear Grylls: 05:35 Worldʼs Deadliest Snakes Highlights 18:45 Emmerdale Movie 10:35 Disaster Date 16:10 Unravelled USA 06:30 Monster Fish 01:00 PGA Tour Highlights 19:15 Coronation Street 16:35 Ploddy Police Car On The 11:00 Urban Tarzan 17:00 Disappeared 09:00 Storage Wars Canada 07:25 Man V. Animal (Cutdowns) 02:00 Live PGA Tour Special 19:45 Coronation Street Case 11:25 Urban Tarzan 17:50 The Perfect Murder 09:25 How Do They Do It? 07:50 Man V. Animal (Cutdowns) 04:00 PGA European Tour 20:10 The Chase 17:55 The Wish Fish 11:50 Disaster Date 18:40 Nowhere To Hide 09:47 How Do They Do It? 08:20 Caught In The Act Highlights 21:00 Midsomer Murders 19:20 Albert 12:15 Frankenfood 19:30 Obsession: Dark Desires 10:10 The Island With Bear Grylls 09:15 Ultimate Rivals: Cat V. Dog 04:30 Europro Tour 22:50 Emmerdale 20:50 Poohʼs Heffalump Halloween 12:40 Frankenfood 20:20 Blood Relatives 10:55 Bear Grylls: Mission Survive 10:10 Worldʼs Deadliest Killers 00:15 The New Adventures Of Old 06:30 Asian Tour Highlights 23:15 Coronation Street Movie 13:05 Disorderly Conduct: Video 21:10 Evil Online 11:40 Boy To Man 11:05 Wild Scotland: Highlands Christine 07:00 Golfing World 23:40 Coronation Street 22:05 Funny Little Cars On Patrol 22:00 Evil Online 12:25 How Do They Do It? 12:00 Tiger Shark Terror 00:40 The New Adventures Of Old 08:00 The Hero Challenge 23:10 Hotel For Dogs 13:55 Bondi Ink. 22:50 I Am Homicide 12:47 Storage Wars Canada 12:55 Man-Eater Of The Congo Christine 09:30 PGA Web.Com Tour 14:45 Lip Sync Battle 23:40 Sin City Justice 13:10 Alaska: The Last Frontier 13:50 Monster Fish 01:05 Brooklyn Nine-Nine Highlights 13:55 Deadliest Catch 14:45 Man V. Animal (Cutdowns) 01:30 The Last Man On Earth 15:10 Lip Sync Battle 10:30 Golfing World 15:25 Fast Nʼ Loud 15:10 Man V. Animal (Cutdowns) 01:55 The Detour 15:35 Ridiculousness Arabia 11:30 The Hero Challenge 16:10 Misfit Garage 15:40 Caught In The Act 02:20 The Tonight Show Starring 01:55 The Legend Of Zorro 16:00 Impractical Jokers 13:00 The President Cup Official 00:00 Ancient Discoveries 16:35 Warrior Bees Jimmy Fallon 04:04 Lucy 16:30 Disaster Date Film 17:00 How Do They Do It? 01:00 Clash Of Warriors 17:25 How Do They Do It? 17:30 Worldʼs Deadliest Killers 03:10 Late Night With Seth Meyers 05:34 Finding Forrester 16:55 Disaster Date 14:00 Golfing World 02:00 Americaʼs Book Of Secrets 18:25 Strangest Bird Alive 04:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 07:55 Jurassic World 17:20 Ridiculousness 15:00 PGA Web.Com Tour 17:50 Storage Hunters UK 02:50 Ancient Aliens 18:20 Storage Hunters UK 19:20 Man V. Animal (Cutdowns) 04:50 George Lopez 10:00 Forces Of Nature 18:10 Impractical Jokers Highlights 03:40 Ancient Aliens 19:45 Man V. Animal (Cutdowns) 05:15 Happy Endings 11:50 The Legend Of Zorro 18:35 Impractical Jokers UK 18:50 The Island With Bear Grylls: 04:30 Serial Killer Earth 00:00 Hank Zipzer USA 20:10 Caught In The Act 05:40 Dr. Ken 14:00 Beaches 19:05 Frankenfood 00:25 Alex & Co. 05:20 Ancient Discoveries 21:00 Warrior Bees 06:05 Dr. Ken 16:05 Enemy Of The State 19:26 Frankenfood 19:40 How Do They Do It? 06:10 The Universe 00:45 The Hive 20:10 How Do They Do It? 06:30 Gary Unmarried 18:20 Sahara 19:48 Ridiculousness Arabia 00:50 Evermoor Chronicles 07:00 Clash Of Warriors 06:55 Cougar Town 20:25 Itʼs Complicated 20:11 The Jim Gaffigan Show 20:35 How Do They Do It? 08:00 Americaʼs Book Of Secrets 01:15 Sabrina Secrets Of A 21:00 Harley And The Davidsons 07:20 Late Night With Seth Meyers 22:25 Thereʼs Something About 20:34 Comedy Central Presents Teenage Witch 09:00 Ancient Aliens 08:10 The Ellen DeGeneres Show Mary Comedy 3alwagef 22:40 Breaking Magic 10:00 Ancient Aliens 00:00 ICC Cricket 360 01:40 Sabrina Secrets Of A 23:30 Fast Nʼ Loud 09:00 The Tonight Show Starring 21:00 The Daily Show With Trevor Teenage Witch 11:00 Serial Killer Earth 00:12 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Jimmy Fallon Noah 00:30 England v Windies T20I 02:05 Binny And The Ghost 12:00 Ancient Discoveries 00:36 Rabbids Invasion 09:50 George Lopez 21:30 The Half Hour Highlights 02:30 Binny And The Ghost 13:00 Clash Of Warriors 01:00 Rabbids Invasion 10:15 Happy Endings 22:00 Tosh.0 01:30 England v Windies ODI 02:55 Hank Zipzer 14:00 Americaʼs Book Of Secrets 01:24 Sanjay And Craig 10:40 Gary Unmarried 22:25 Tosh.0 Highlights 03:15 The Hive 15:00 Ancient Aliens 01:48 Sanjay And Craig 11:05 Cougar Town 00:30 How Do They Do It? 22:50 Idiotsitter 02:30 England v Windies ODI 03:20 Hank Zipzer 16:00 Ancient Aliens 02:12 Winx Club 11:30 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 00:55 Food Factory 23:15 The Alternative Comedy Highlights 03:45 Alex & Co. 06:00 Penn Zero: Part Time Hero 17:00 The Universe 02:36 Winx Club 12:20 Fresh Off The Boat 01:20 Through The Wormhole With Experience 03:30 Caribbean Premier League 04:10 Alex & Co. 06:25 Disney11 18:00 Ancient Discoveries 03:00 Harvey Beaks 12:45 Black-ish Morgan Freeman 23:40 The Daily Show With Trevor Magazine Show 04:35 Sabrina Secrets Of A 06:50 Marvelʼs Spider-Man 19:00 Weapons At War 03:24 Harvey Beaks 13:10 The New Adventures Of Old 02:10 NASAʼs Unexplained Files Noah 04:00 ICC World Twenty20 2016 Teenage Witch 07:15 Right Now Kapow 20:00 Brad Meltzerʼs Decoded 03:48 The Loud House Christine 03:00 Junkyard Wars Official Film 05:00 Sabrina Secrets Of A 07:40 Mech-X4 21:00 Ancient Aliens 04:12 The Loud House 13:35 The New Adventures Of Old 03:48 Mythbusters 05:10 Natwest T20 Blast Highlights Teenage Witch 08:05 Marvelʼs Rocket And Groot 22:00 United Stuff Of America 04:36 Breadwinners Christine 04:36 How Do They Do It? 06:05 Natwest T20 Blast Highlights 05:25 Binny And The Ghost 08:10 Gravity Falls 23:00 Million Dollar Genius 05:00 Breadwinners 14:00 George Lopez 05:00 Food Factory 07:00 ICC Cricket 360 05:45 The Hive 08:35 Milo Murphyʼs Law 05:24 Get Blake 14:25 Son Of Zorn 05:24 Through The Wormhole With 07:30 Caribbean Premier League 05:50 Rolling With The Ronks 09:00 Phineas And Ferb 05:48 SpongeBob SquarePants 14:50 Gary Unmarried Morgan Freeman 00:45 Line Of Duty Highlights 06:00 Jessie 09:25 Supa Strikas 06:12 SpongeBob SquarePants 15:15 The Orville 06:12 NASAʼs Unexplained Files 01:45 Line Of Duty 08:30 Caribbean Premier League 06:25 Liv And Maddie 09:50 Supa Strikas 06:36 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 16:05 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 07:00 How Do They Do It? 02:45 Silent Witness Highlights 06:50 Tsum Tsum Shorts 10:20 Kickinʼ It 07:00 The Loud House 17:00 Fresh Off The Boat 07:26 Junkyard Wars 03:45 Doctor Foster 09:30 Caribbean Premier League 06:55 The Zhuzhus 10:45 Kickinʼ It 00:20 Mountain Men 07:24 Rabbids Invasion 17:30 Black-ish 08:14 Mythbusters 04:40 Holby City Highlights 07:20 Elena Of Avalor 11:10 Mighty Med 01:10 Road To 9/11 07:48 Get Blake 18:00 The New Adventures Of Old 09:02 NASAʼs Unexplained Files 05:30 The Detectorists 10:30 Caribbean Premier League 07:45 Bunkʼd 11:35 Mighty Med 02:50 Storage Wars Texas 08:12 Harvey Beaks Christine 09:50 How Do They Do It? 06:00 New Tricks Magazine Show 08:10 Stuck In The Middle 12:00 Lab Rats 03:15 American Pickers 08:36 Sanjay And Craig 18:30 The New Adventures Of Old 10:14 Food Factory 06:55 Death In Paradise 11:00 Royal London One-Day Cup 08:35 Miraculous Tales Of Ladybug 12:30 Lab Rats 04:05 Pawn Stars 09:00 Rank The Prank Christine 10:38 Through The Wormhole With 07:50 Doctor Who Highlights And Cat Noir 12:55 The Suite Life On Deck 04:30 Pawn Stars 09:24 Henry Danger 19:00 Dr. Ken Morgan Freeman 08:55 Stella 12:00 England v Windies ODI 09:00 Miraculous Tales Of Ladybug 13:20 The Suite Life On Deck 05:00 Mountain Men 09:48 100 Things To Do Before 19:30 Dr. Ken 11:26 Junkyard Wars 09:45 Holby City Highlights And Cat Noir 13:45 Gamerʼs Guide To Pretty... 06:00 Lost In Transmission High School 20:00 New Girl 12:14 Mythbusters 10:35 Death In Paradise 13:00 England v Windies ODI 09:25 Lolirock 14:10 Disney Mickey Mouse 06:50 Duck Dynasty 10:12 Game Shakers 20:30 New Girl 13:02 How Do They Do It? 11:30 Doctor Who Highlights 09:50 Lolirock 14:15 Kirby Buckets 07:15 Duck Dynasty 10:36 Regal Academy 21:00 The Tonight Show Starring 13:26 Food Factory 12:35 Stella 14:00 Live England v Windies ODI 10:15 Sabrina Secrets Of A 14:40 Lab Rats: Bionic Island 08:05 Counting Cars 11:00 Winx Club Jimmy Fallon 13:50 NASAʼs Unexplained Files 13:25 Holby City Series Teenage Witch 15:05 Milo Murphyʼs Law 08:30 Pawn Stars 11:24 SpongeBob SquarePants 22:00 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 14:38 Junkyard Wars 14:20 Death In Paradise 23:00 Caribbean Premier League 10:40 Sabrina Secrets Of A 15:30 Walk The Prank 08:55 Pawn Stars 11:48 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 22:30 The Last Man On Earth 15:26 Through The Wormhole With 15:15 Doctor Who Magazine Show Teenage Witch 15:55 Right Now Kapow 09:20 Storage Wars Texas 12:12 The Loud House 23:00 The Detour Morgan Freeman 16:20 Stella 23:30 Caribbean Premier League 11:05 Hank Zipzer 16:25 Supa Strikas 09:45 Storage Wars Texas 12:36 Rabbids Invasion 23:25 Late Night With Seth Meyers 16:14 Mythbusters 17:05 New Tricks Magazine Show stars26 WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017

CROSSWORD 1720 STAR TRACK

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

Your keyword today is responsibility. You are able to find yourself in oth- This is a productive day. You have insight into your professional life and you ers—a mirror or clear pool. You are a genius at bringing out others and getting them to are developing future plans that will be valuable. Your path is toward cooperation and do things for themselves or for you—you are a born strategist. You like to discuss and union with others, even at the expense of the practical and selfish. This may mean you communicate, usually at a psychological and very personal level. Careful—some may are working toward some goal that involves legal or psychological subjects. You enjoy find you a bit too intense. Your love of the spiritual and the eternal is clear to all who the interaction with others and may find yourself in volunteer programs so as to feel use- meet you. You could find yourself involved in long conversations while visiting with ful and complete. You may often wonder if you are doing your job well and if you take a friends this afternoon. You love to solve the problems of the world, at least in words and look at the results, you will be pleased to see the successes. Sometimes it is good to just images—and when you tell it, all are enchanted. A favorite hobby may take up the reach around and pat yourself on the back for a job well done; you are getting better and evening: building, admiring, plotting to make additions, etc. better every day. Music fills the air this evening.

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

Taking care of business is a major theme where your emotional orienta- You may appear very cool and collected today. Review contracts and tion is concerned. You crave organization and practicality and you want to get things reconsider legal actions during the next few days—avoid jumping into a risky opportuni- accomplished. Your hard work pays off today and much can be accomplished. You have ty that has too many unanswered questions. Also, reconsider the cost before you person- a mind for what is practical, organized and logical. Your employer is probably happy to ally take on large expenditures. Researching a product is important—you could get into get you—you are a natural for any management position or in dealing with the public. something that is not as useful as you thought. A natural transformation of your values, Some past investment needs review and perhaps revising. You may find that now is a the way you appreciate and love yourself and others, is taking place now. You may cease good time to reinvest this old investment in some other direction—there is the possibili- to waste time and money and may develop an eye for that which is lasting and worth- ty of additional gains. If you have not had communication with the eldest person in your while. Circumstances can throw you into positions where you may deal with education, family, you may want to show that person some consideration now. psychology, spiritual enlightenment or teaching principles and techniques.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) There is time this morning to complete unfinished business. This morning Your efforts really pay off and life seems to run smoothly. Now you have you will also accidentally find an item that has been missing for some time. the ability for sustained work that allows you to coordinate and organize This could be a possession that belongs to you or to someone that is close to you. Your like never before. You will bring uncompleted tasks to completion. This is a nice day that decision-making ability in the work area shows some well-directed action is called for ACROSS DOWN should just flow along. The schedule you set for yourself today can be helpful but taxing. today. However, you must be watchful for possible moments of pride. Challenging 1. Piece of solid food for dipping in a liquid. 1. A region of Malaysia in northeastern If you can work in some focused exercise program later today, you will find it easier to authority and striving for success are on your agenda. Ambition is a powerful motivation Borneo. relax this evening. Children have your attention this evening and it is a good time for 4. Having hair on the cheeks and chin. and can lead you into conflict if you let it get out of control. If properly channeled, ambi- play. Really join in and enjoy the play that children can create. This may mean creating 11. Having or denoting a low vocal or 2. Similar to the giraffe but smaller with tion results in great achievements and recognition. Some fun time with friends this something out of clay or simply coloring in a book. You could feel real connections and instrumental range. much shorter neck and stripe on the legs. evening brings plenty of opportunity for laughter, song and gossip your way. harmony at this time for circumstances and those around you. 15. A Kwa language spoken by the Yoruba 3. Of or relating to or near the pudendum. people in southwestern Nigeria. 4. The cry made by sheep. 16. A B vitamin that prevents beriberi. 5. Reports of the work of a society or ) 17. A collection of things (goods or works of learned body etc. Cancer (June 21-July 22 Capricorn (December 22-January 19) art etc.) for public display. 6. Show a response or a reaction to some- Taking care of business is a major theme. You desire successful organiza- You are a great doer, and can accomplish quite a lot. You will find yourself 18. Having undesirable or negative quali- thing. tion and practicality and you want to get things accomplished. Things are working with the public today. This could mean solving customer-relations ties. 7. The act of hitting a baseball lightly with- happening and your career or path depends upon your own aspirations which are problems. The skillful ways you handle people make you a natural for working with or for 19. A habitual liar (after a New Testament out swinging the bat. strong now. You are able to use good common sense and you can feel the trends and the public. You would make an excellent teacher, career counselor or financial advisor— character who was struck dead for lying). 8. Bristlelike process near the tip of the make the right moves. You will be pleased with the results of your actions. You are most and could enjoy performing these tasks quite well. The only problems in your career are antenna of certain flies. persuasive with others. You have eloquent skills in speech. The circumstances are good the fears you might have toward qualifying for work with which you are not familiar. 20. The granite-like rocks that form the out- today for self-expression. A good conversation with those you love is possible later this Your career is never really a problem—you have the kind of drive that others could only ermost layer of the earth's crust. 9. Brief episode in which the brain gets evening. Any misunderstandings of the past have a good opportunity to be healed. dream of having. This evening there is an opportunity to use your imagination to 21. Someone who copies the words or insufficient blood supply. Enjoy a brisk walk with your friend this evening. improve your living environment. Simplicity works. behavior of another. 10. Take or catch as if in a snare or trap. 23. A book of the New Testament. 11. Genus of North American spring wild- 24. Speak in a nasal voice. flowers. Leo (July 23-August 22) Aquarius (January 20- February 18) 26. French racing cyclist who won the Tour 12. Of or relating to or resembling an axis of There is a certain amount of transition taking place. This could mean job You somehow manage to gravitate to the center of almost any happening de France five times (born in 1954). rotation. these days. Others accept you, for they sense you are a leader and they admire your 13. A fragment broken off from the edge or advancement soon. You may find yourself uninterested in sidetracks— 28. Small genus of North American herbs what is not essential for future advancement. You can really tune in on how to solve almost regal manner. You talk with someone new and find a different vision. You may having mostly basal leaves and slender face of stone or ore and having at least one problems and get where you want to go when it comes to your profession. This could be decide to ask for a raise or request a loan today. Refinement and relationships are the racemes of delicate white flowers. thin edge. a crucial time during which—depending upon your age when this takes place—you keys to emotional satisfaction. Close personal ties to other people are focal points for your feelings; marriage and other partnerships could be key arenas for this. If you smoke, 30. A software system that facilitates the 14. Type genus of the Soleidae. reach new highs of accomplishment. This will bring great discipline and a concentration 22. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congrega- or focus that could make or break you. You have the ability to work hard. You draw emo- or have some other habit that is bad for your health, this is the day you will create anoth- creation and maintenance and use of an er avenue where you can express yourself. Insights into your deeper, more spiritual tion. tional sustenance and a sense of security from ideals, friends and social involvement. electronic database. There is a need for change, a desire to break with outmoded patterns. nature are available now. Harmony surrounds you this evening. 31. An orderly arrangement. 25. A constellation in the southern hemi- 32. Jordan's port. sphere near Telescopium and Norma. 27. A benevolent aspect of Devi. 36. The branch of engineering science that Virgo (August 23-September 22) Pisces (February 19-March 20) studies the uses of electricity and the 29. Conducive to peace. equipment for power generation and distri- 33. Cubes of meat marinated and cooked Individual competitiveness does not seem to work as well as projects that Working in groups affords the opportunity to strengthen a unit. You may bution and the control of machines and on a skewer usually with vegetables. have a cooperative effort. Address the need to improve working conditions. Remember that be required to lead or lend advice. Your management abilities are good and your sense of responsibility is so well developed that you always end up managing communication. 34. By bad luck. the bottom line is to increase productivity, not to cater to the whims of others. Investments are best for you at the first of next month; financial advice is a good thing. Charisma, self- the situations in which you become involved. You may have to be careful in this area 37. A hormone produced by the anterior 35. An award for winning a championship or commemorating some other event. transformation and the development of personal power are the things that play a big role in since others could take advantage of you quite easily. You display your eagerness for pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal your work and much can be accomplished. This is a particularly good day in that a new 38. A Bantu language spoken by the Chaga your life now. Remember that tiny causes can lead to big effects. There are profound changes cortex. on the personal level—psychological and perhaps physical as well—as if you are transform- piece of equipment or technique is something you are already familiar with, and others 41. A shop selling delicatessen (as salads or people in northern Tanzania. ing into an entirely new person. Think about what a relationship means . . . A relationship has could be asking for your advice. Your greatest pleasure this month is the time you are cooked meats). 39. A fierce or audacious person. some reflection on you. recognized for the progress you have made. You charm someone special this evening. 40. Detected or perceived by the sense of 45. Step on it. hearing. 46. The blood group whose red cells carry 42. The protruding part of the lower jaw. both the A and B antigens. Wordsearch Puzzle Yesterday’s Solution 43. A genus of Platalea. 47. A pilgrim who journeys to Mecca. 44. A master's degree in business. 48. God of wealth and love. 49. Small genus of erect balsam-scented 50. Plant with an elongated head of broad herbs. stalked leaves resembling celery. 51. The capital of Sicily. 53. (Old Testament) The second patriarch. 52. (Old Testament) In Judeo-Christian 54. A long flexible steel coil for dislodging mythology. stoppages in curved pipes. 56. Evergreen Indian shrub with vivid yel- 55. A port city in southwestern Iran. low flowers whose bark is used in tanning. 57. Being one more than fifty. 58. A soft silvery metallic element of the 59. Soft white semisolid fat obtained by alkali earth group. rendering the fatty tissue of the hog v 1. 62. Type genus of the Meliaceae. 60. A room equipped with toilet facilities. 63. The capital and largest city of Yemen. 61. Collect or gather. 65. A complex red organic pigment con- 64. A Chemakuan language spoken by the taining iron and other atoms to which oxy- Chemakum people. gen binds. 69. Yellow-fever mosquitos. 66. The basic unit of money in Papua New 73. A river in north central Switzerland that Guinea. runs northeast into the Rhine. 67. A state in the western United States. 74. Of or relating to or characteristic of reli- 68. Type genus of the Musaceae. gious rituals. 70. A couple who both have careers and no 76. The basic unit of money in Nigeria. children. 77. A spacecraft that carries astronauts from 71. A member of an Iroquoian people for- the command module to the surface of the merly living on the south shore of Lake Erie moon and back. in northern Ohio and northwest 78. Extinct order of jawless vertebrates. Pennsylvania and western New York. 80. Horny projecting mouth of a bird. 72. A island in the Netherlands Antilles that 81. The United Nations agency concerned is the top of an extinct volcano. with international maritime activities. 75. The month following March and preced- 82. A great raja. ing May. 83. Large brownish-green New Zealand par- 79. A person who announces and plays rot. popular recorded music. Yesterday’s Solution

Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution Classifieds

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017

AIRLINES

American Airlines 22087425 22087426 Kuwait Airways 171 Jazeera Airways 177 Jet Airways 22924455 FlyDubai 22414400 Qatar Airways 22423888 KLM 22425747 Air Slovakia 22434940 Olympic Airways 22420002/9 Royal Jordanian 22418064/5 Reservation 22433388 British Airways 22425635 Air France 22430224 Automated CHANGE OF NAME Emirates 22921555 enquiry about the I, Podadurti Mastanaiah Air India 22438184 Civil ID card is S/o Podadurthi Narayana, Sri Lanka Airlines 22424444 holder of Indian Passport Egypt Air 22421578 No. H0375492 & Civil ID 1889988 275070104836 has Swiss Air 22421516 changed my name to Saudia 22426306 Pandhalooru Middle East Airlines 22423073 Mastanaiah,hereinafter in all my dealings and docu- Lufthansa 22422493 112 ments. (C 5346) PIA 22421044 26-9-2017 Alitalia 22414427 Balkan Airlines 22416474 PRAYER TIMINGS ACCOMMODATION Bangladesh Airlines 22452977/8 Fajr: 04:19 Sharing accommodation Czech Airlines 22417901/ available immediately for a 2433141 Shorook: 05:38 Christian family or 2 work- ing ladies in Salmiya, block Indian Airlines 22456700 Duhr: 11:40 10, near Blue Diamond Oman Air 22958787 restaurant. Contact: Asr: 15:05 66195097. (C 5345) Turkish Airlines 22453820/1 24-9-2017 Aeroflot 22404838/9 Maghrib: 17:40 Isha: 18:57

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

Arrival Flights on Wednesday 27/9/2017 KAC 672 Dubai 13:55 Departure Flights on Wednesday 27/9/2017 IAW 158 Al Najaf 13:00 Airlines Flt Route Time QTR 1078 Doha 14:10 Airlines Flt Route Time JZR 786 Riyadh 13:10 THY 772 Istanbul 00:10 KAC 364 Colombo 14:15 AIC 988 Hyderabad/Chennai 00:05 JZR 176 Dubai 13:10 JZR 553 Alexandria 00:15 SVA 500 Jeddah 14:15 JAI 573 Mumbai 00:30 THY 767 Istanbul 13:45 KAC 786 Jeddah 00:30 GFA 221 Bahrain 14:15 MSR 2615 Cairo 00:30 FEG 932 Alexandria 13:55 JZR 267 Beirut 00:35 KAC 618 Doha 14:20 MSC 406 Sohag 00:30 MSR 611 Cairo 14:00 KAC 102 London 00:55 FDB 059 Dubai 14:20 FDB 072 Dubai 00:30 KIS 7137 Mashhad 14:00 BRZ 211 TBS 01:00 JZR 903 GYD 14:25 WAN 341 Sohag 01:30 UAE 872 Dubai 14:15 DLH 635 Doha 01:00 KAC 540 Sharm el-Sheikh 14:35 THY 773 Istanbul 01:40 CLX 792 Hanoi 14:30 JZR 539 Cairo 01:20 IRC 6521 Lamerd 14:40 KAC 363 Colombo 01:55 GFA 222 Bahrain 15:00 MSR 618 Alexandria 01:35 KAC 788 Jeddah 14:55 DLH 635 Frankfurt 02:00 KAC 673 Dubai 15:00 UAE 853 Dubai 01:40 KAC 304 Mumbai 14:55 MSR 619 Alexandria 02:35 FDB 060 Dubai 15:05 RJA 642 Amman 01:45 KAC 692 Muscat 14:55 THY 765 Istanbul 02:50 QTR 1079 Doha 15:15 THY 1464 Istanbul 01:50 KNE 529 Jeddah 14:55 KKK 6505 Istanbul 02:55 IRC 6512 ABD 15:30 KKK 6506 Istanbul 01:55 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 15:05 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 03:05 KAC 563 Amman 15:40 KLM 446 Bahrain 02:05 KAC 562 Amman 15:10 PGT 831 Istanbul 03:10 SVA 501 Jeddah 15:45 PGT 830 Istanbul 02:10 OMA 645 Muscat 15:10 UAE 854 Dubai 03:30 KNE 530 Jeddah 15:55 QTR 1086 Doha 02:10 KAC 502 Beirut 15:25 KLM 446 Amsterdam 03:30 KAC 619 Doha 16:00 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 02:15 WAN 436 Al Najaf 15:25 OMA 644 Muscat 04:05 KAC 775 Riyadh 16:05 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:15 KAC 412 Bangkok 15:30 QTR 1087 Doha 04:10 OMA 646 Muscat 16:10 KAC 418 Manila 02:50 ABY 127 Sharjah 15:35 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:10 ABY 128 Sharjah 16:15 OMA 643 Muscat 03:05 UAE 857 Dubai 15:45 MSR 613 Cairo 04:15 ETD 304 Abu Dhabi 16:20 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 03:10 SAW 705 Damascus 15:50 KAC 417 Manila 04:20 KAC 615 Bahrain 16:30 KAC 382 Delhi 03:15 SVA 504 Madinah 16:00 JZR 560 Sohag 04:45 SAW 706 Damascus 16:50 MSR 612 Cairo 03:15 RJA 640 Amman 16:00 RBG 550 Alexandria 05:00 RJA 641 Amman 16:55 FDB 069 Dubai 03:15 QTR 1072 Doha 16:15 KAC 103 London 05:00 SVA 505 Madinah 16:55 QTR 1076 Doha 03:45 FDB 051 Dubai 16:15 QTR 1077 Doha 05:30 FDB 052 Dubai 17:05 KAC 544 Cairo 03:50 JZR 535 Cairo 16:20 KAC 303 Mumbai 05:50 KAC 503 Beirut 17:15 KAC 796 Madinah 03:55 KAC 118 New York 16:25 FEG 954 Asyut 05:55 JZR 266 Beirut 17:15 RBG 559 Alexandria 04:10 JZR 787 Riyadh 16:35 UAE 874 Dubai 06:15 QTR 1073 Doha 17:25 KAC 346 Ahmedabad 04:15 NIA 361 Alexandria 16:50 RJA 643 Amman 06:25 JZR 552 Alexandria 17:25 UAE 873 Dubai 04:15 KAC 542 Cairo 17:05 THY 771 Istanbul 06:25 JZR 240 Amman 17:30 KAC 358 Kochi 04:50 KAC 514 Tehran 17:10 GFA 212 Bahrain 06:50 KAC 361 Colombo 17:35 FEG 931 Alexandria 05:00 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:15 FDB 070 Dubai 07:05 UAE 858 Dubai 17:40 DHX 170 Bahrain 05:10 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 JZR 164 Dubai 07:15 KAC 357 Kochi 17:40 THY 770 Istanbul 05:25 JZR 777 Jeddah 17:35 KAC 171 Frankfurt 07:50 WAN 115 Bahrain 17:45 KAC 344 Chennai 05:30 JZR 177 Dubai 17:45 KAC 501 Beirut 07:50 NIA 362 Alexandria 17:50 KAC 332 Trivandrum 05:40 QTR 1080 Doha 18:10 KAC 613 Bahrain 07:55 KAC 381 Delhi 17:50 KAC 362 Colombo 05:50 JZR 483 Istanbul 18:30 BAW 156 London 08:20 KAC 283 Dhaka 18:00 BAW 157 London 06:05 MSR 620 Cairo 18:30 FDB 054 Dubai 08:30 KAC 343 Chennai 18:00 KAC 284 Dhaka 06:35 KAC 512 Mashhad 18:40 KAC 741 Dammam 08:30 SVA 511 Riyadh 18:15 KAC 206 Islamabad 06:40 UAE 875 Dubai 19:05 KAC 773 Riyadh 08:35 GFA 216 Bahrain 18:20 WAN 342 Sohag 06:40 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:05 KAC 539 Sharm el-Sheikh 08:40 JZR 184 Dubai 18:25 KAC 302 Mumbai 06:55 FDB 063 Dubai 19:10 KAC 661 Abu Dhabi 08:45 JZR 538 Cairo 18:30 KAC 156 Istanbul 07:05 ABY 123 Sharjah 19:20 BRZ 212 TBS 09:00 KAC 785 Jeddah 18:45 FDB 053 Dubai 07:50 KAC 154 Istanbul 19:30 KAC 101 London 09:00 QTR 1081 Doha 19:15 KAC 384 Delhi 08:00 KAC 616 Bahrain 19:40 JZR 902 GYD 09:00 JZR 124 Bahrain 19:20 UAE 855 Dubai 08:25 KAC 674 Dubai 19:40 KAC 117 New York 09:15 MSR 621 Cairo 19:30 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 08:55 KAC 776 Riyadh 19:50 KAC 787 Jeddah 09:15 GFA 218 Bahrain 19:50 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:00 FDB 057 Dubai 19:50 KAC 671 Dubai 09:15 FDB 064 Dubai 19:50 QTR 1070 Doha 09:25 KAC 104 London 20:00 KAC 691 Muscat 09:30 ABY 124 Sharjah 20:00 IRA 665 Shiraz 09:25 OMA 647 Muscat 20:05 KAC 561 Amman 09:30 FDB 058 Dubai 20:30 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 KAC 620 Doha 20:05 JZR 534 Cairo 09:30 UAE 876 Dubai 20:35 IRC 6511 ABD 09:50 DLH 634 Frankfurt 20:15 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:40 KAC 331 Trivandrum 20:35 IRM 1188 Mashhad 09:55 MEA 402 Beirut 20:15 JZR 482 Istanbul 09:40 KAC 353 Bangalore 20:55 MSC 415 Sohag 10:15 QTR 1088 Doha 20:40 UAE 856 Dubai 09:50 DLH 634 Doha 21:00 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 KNE 231 Riyadh 20:50 ETD 302 Abu Dhabi 10:00 KAC 1543 Cairo 21:00 MEA 404 Beirut 10:55 KAC 564 Amman 21:00 KAC 541 Cairo 10:00 OMA 648 Muscat 21:05 WAN 114 Bahrain 11:00 KAC 172 Frankfurt 21:05 KAC 617 Doha 10:15 MEA 403 Beirut 21:15 QTR 1074 Doha 11:00 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:10 IRA 664 Shiraz 10:25 KNE 232 Riyadh 21:40 SYR 341 Damascus 11:00 KLM 445 Amsterdam 21:15 KAC 153 Istanbul 10:30 KAC 301 Mumbai 21:40 AXB 889 Mangalore/Bahrain 11:05 ALK 229 Colombo 21:15 QTR 1071 Doha 10:35 KAC 203 Lahore 21:45 JZR 561 Sohag 11:10 UAE 859 Dubai 21:15 FDB 056 Dubai 10:35 QTR 1089 Doha 21:50 KAC 614 Bahrain 11:15 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:50 IRC 6522 Lamerd 10:40 KAC 205 Islamabad 21:55 KAC 742 Dammam 11:45 QTR 1082 Doha 22:00 AAG 146 IQA 11:00 ETD 308 Abu Dhabi 22:00 JZR 165 Dubai 11:50 ETD 309 Abu Dhabi 22:10 IRM 1189 Mashhad 11:10 KAC 155 Istanbul 22:15 IAW 157 Al Najaf 12:00 JZR 125 Bahrain 22:15 MSC 416 Sohag 11:15 ALK 230 Colombo 22:20 KAC 774 Riyadh 12:45 AIC 975 Chennai/Goa 22:25 GFA 214 Bahrain 11:35 KLM 445 Bahrain 22:25 UAE 871 Dubai 12:45 BBC 043 Dhaka 22:30 MEA 405 Beirut 11:55 UAE 860 Dubai 22:35 THY 766 Istanbul 12:50 JZR 241 Amman 22:55 SYR 342 Latakia 12:00 KAC 383 Delhi 22:35 FEG 953 Asyut 12:55 RBG 551 Alexandria 23:00 JZR 776 Jeddah 12:00 GFA 220 Bahrain 22:50 KIS 7136 Mashhad 13:00 JZR 185 Dubai 23:00 AXB 890 Mangalore 12:05 ETD 310 Abu Dhabi 23:00 WAN 954 GYD 13:00 RBG 555 Alexandria 23:25 QTR 1075 Doha 12:10 JZR 528 Asyut 23:05 MSR 610 Cairo 13:00 MSR 2614 Cairo 23:30 VIZ 205 IQA 12:30 KAC 783 Jeddah 23:10 KAC 662 Abu Dhabi 13:15 FDB 071 Dubai 23:35 KAC 511 Mashhad 12:45 QTR 1083 Doha 23:20 CLX 792 Luxembourg 13:15 PIA 239 Sialkot 23:40 KAC 513 Tehran 12:45 RBG 552 Alexandria 23:40 lifestyle WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017

FASHION

Models present creations for Italian fashion house Ssheena at Piazza Duomo during the Women’s Spring/Summer 2018 fashion shows in Milan. —AP/AFP photos Awards for titans, shows by young talent close Milan

or once, even the designers had a reason wear their Ujoh softens deconstructions finest creations as Milan Fashion Week closed with a star- Japanese designer Mitsuru Nishizaki plays with tailoring Fstudded gala promoting sustainability in fashion. The and pattern cutting in the latest collection for his Ujoh brand, four giants of Made-in-Italy - Armani, Gucci, Prada and which had its Milan debut last year. The looks started out in Valentino - were among the honorees of the awards promot- dark, matte colors and then exploded into colorful patterns ed by the Italian Fashion Chamber working with Livia Firth’s featuring red flowers and some flashes of gold. Designs for a Eco-Age consultancy. That left a trio of young talent to close woman’s wilder side followed more masculine cuts, During out the final day of spring-summer womenswear previews on the first half of the collection, Nishizaki featured asymmetrical Monday. Here are some highlights: and cut-through details on deconstructed jackets. A favorite silhouette is an off-shoulder jumper, seemingly cut from men’s Punk invasion from Ssheena trousers, paired with spilling out soft tops. In the second half, Sabrina Mandelli walked her punk-inspired SSheena collec- he moved toward lighter pieces, including billowing, para- tion straight from the runway into Milan’s Piazza del Duomo, chute-like jackets, skirts and jumpers. scattering pigeons and giving passers-by a rare glimpse into the invitation-only world of Italian ready-to-wear shows. The brand founded in 2015 takes its name from the Ramones song “Sheena Is a Punk Rocker,” an extra S added for Mandelli’s first name. For her Milan runway debut, the designer presented a soft-to-hard progression of looks. She started with satiny athletic wear in deep burgundy parachute material, extending into a pleated skirt with a plas- tic layer, fluid dresses and then trousers adorned with garters and split at the ankle. Teardrops were a motif that showed up on eyewear as a long glass ornament hanging from some frames and as beaded fringe on other designs. The fringe was repeated dramatically as the extension of pinstripes on a jack- et mini-dress. Another motif was the monocle, represented in circular prints on handkerchief dresses, to reference a lesbian club of that name in 1930s Paris. “They went there to be them- selves. My girls now can express themselves in Piazza Duomo. I hope something has changed,” Mandelli said.

Love’s contradictions by Daizy Shely Israeli designer Daizy Shely commissioned a print by artist Umberto Chiodi for her latest collection, a colorful and kinetic tour de force that examines love’s contradictions. The print features dreamy cupids and female figures, but also more dis- turbing details like ropes tightening around necks. “I wanted to create a personal collection talking about love. Not only romantic love, but your relationship with your friends. The good parts of it and the bad parts of it. Putting that contrast together,” the designer said backstage. Milan-based Shely displayed her tailoring in a denim dress Models present creations for made pretty with pleated tiers in blue shirt cloth and her detailing with daisies embroidered on a denim jacket. There fashion house Daizy Shely. was a burst of color and movement in a series of asymmetrical fringe dresses in acid green and yellow. French lace tops are decorated with ostrich feathers. “I put a lot of attention to details because this is what makes the difference between the regular commercial world and the designer,” Shely said.

Models present creations for Japanese fashion house UJOH during the Women’s Spring/Summer 2018 fashion show in Milan. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 lifestyle

FASHION

Marni treasure hunt Marni is undergoing a color and floral revival in Francesco Risso’s second womenswear collection at the 23- year-old fashion house. Risso said the collection represents a treasure hunt of objects collected by a scavenger, who then adopts and incorporates them into her life. There’s a vein of nostalgia that runs through the collection, in both the prints and the slightly retro silhouette made contem- porary by its proportions. So in Risso’s fashion treasure hunt, a 1950s-style print bathing suit in sturdy yesteryear cotton becomes a top, worn with a seafoam green floral skirt. The hemlines are left unfinished and the proportions slightly oversized. The florals aren’t mere prints but attic-trove brocades that offered texture or dainty, orderly granny flower prints. Other pieces are bejeweled, as if for some off-beat royal court. The silhouette had a strong daywear vibe and prima- rily consisted of dresses and skirts, with some boxy boyish pants and bowling shirt combs. The brand’s trademark furs included one inspired by Cruella Deville. The Marni woman “has this sort of ‘20s languor, that is sculptural at the same time,” Risso said backstage. With Livia Firth’s Eco-Age spearheading the Green Carpet Fashion Awards, it was fitting that her husband, actor Colin Firth, help out as a presenter in Milan since he was granted Italian citizenship last week. Livia Firth is Italian. The awards were held at Milan’s famed La Scala opera house. Giorgio Armani wore a tuxedo as he stood on the stage alongside Miuccia Prada in a double-breasted coat. And there was Valentino creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli wearing a suit and tie alongside more casually attired Alessandro Michele of Gucci, in a suit-and-T-shirt combo with his trademark baseball cap. Other honorees included Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen, for her work in the Amazon; the seamstresses of the Valentino fashion house for artisanal tradition; designer Brunello Cucinelli for his project to beautify the Italian val- ley where he produces his luxury collections; and the Gucci fashion house for supply chain innovation. Also on hand were songstress Annie Lennox, actors Andrew Garfield and Dakota Johnson, actor-model Lauren Hutton and Vogue editor Anna Wintour. After the awards, everyone moved across the piazza to City Hall for a gala dinner. — AP

Models present creations for fashion house Marni. lifestyle WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 Plant releases new MUSIC & MOVIES track, announces Black Entertainment Television 2018 tour heads to Korea in Asia first lack Entertainment Television, the premier US will come to South Korea in a partnership with SK obert Plant is going on tour in North network geared toward African Americans, is Broadband, a unit of conglomerate SK Telecom. “We America next year to support his Blaunching yesterday a version in South Korea in believe the BET channel will find a fan base among Rupcoming album, “Carry Fire.” The for- its first expansion into Asia. The South Korean BET Korean youth, who are globally recognized as fashion mer Led Zeppelin frontman announced yes- channel, available both on traditional television and and cultural trendsetters —- similar to the BET audi- terday that his 2018 tour will begin Feb 9 in through streaming, will feature the network’s signa- ence,” Lee Hyung-Hee, CEO of operator SK Broadband, Raleigh, North Carolina. He’ll also visit New ture shows as well as local productions, it said. South said in a statement. York, Boston, Toronto, Chicago and Los Korea puts a concerted effort on promoting pop cul- BET, a unit of international media giant Viacom, Angeles, among other cities. More dates will ture and, while the country is highly homogeneous, it already has a presence in Britain, France and sub- be announced later. Plant will be joined on has witnessed a boom in hip-hop-thanks in part to Saharan Africa as well as Canada and the Caribbean. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the tour by his backing band, the Sensational Koreans’ strong ties to rap capital Los Angeles. Among the network’s most popular offerings are the BET, the parent company for Black Shape Shifters. Plant has also released a cover Changmo, a South Korean rapper who has entered BET Hip Hop Awards, which will take place on Entertainment Television, Debra L Lee of Ersel Hickey’s “Bluebirds Over the the country’s top 10 singles chart through collabora- October 6 in Miami and be broadcast on October 14 In this file photo, Robert Plant and The receives an award during the annual Mountain” as the first track from “Carry Fire.” tions, this year became the first Asian nominated at in South Korea. — AFP Sensational Space Shifters perform at the Clive Davis pre-Grammy gala in Beverly The album is set to hit music stores and begin the BET Awards, competing in the fan-decided Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Hills, California. — AFP streaming on Oct 13. — AP Manchester, Tenn. — AP International Viewers’ Choice category. The network Gunslinging Pakistani girls in lawless land shoot for Academy Award ritish-born filmmaker Sarmad Masud was inspired to ters and their mother who defend their home from their showed. Disagreements are often settled by force, and vil- make a feminist Western in Pakistan when he heard uncle and his hired goons after the death of their father lage elders and the police are complicit in a corrupt system Bhow two gun-toting teenage girls fought off 200 and brother. Land ownership defines social status and that does not always respect legal claims, least of all by men trying to take their home. “My Pure Land”, which is political power in Pakistan, and disputes often target single women. Britain’s foreign language entry for the Academy Awards, women who have inherited property. The girls are taught While women do have inheritance rights, men generally highlights how patriarchy and corruption make it hard for to shoot at a young age by their father, who tells them control ownership, passing land from father to son. “It is a women in Pakistan to claim land. “What appealed to me their land is their honor and must be protected, and gives classic good versus evil battle in a lawless land where was the courage of this young girl who stood up to 200 them boys’ names to empower them. everything goes,” Masud said. “It is also very specific to armed men for her home and the family’s honor,” Masud “Pakistan gets a bad rap when it comes to feminism - Pakistan, where land disputes are so prevalent because told the Thomson Reuters Foundation, referring to the but we’ve had some incredibly strong women from there, honor is everything, and it is closely tied to land, with chief protagonist, Nazo Dharejo. including Benazir Bhutto, Malala and this young woman,” which people have an almost spiritual bond.” — Reuters “Land disputes are not as glamorous as other themes, Masud said, adding that Dharejo has joined a political par- but this was an important story that needed telling.” The ty to tackle corruption. More than a million property dis- This file photo shows Shania Twain performing at low-budget Urdu-language film tells the story of two sis- putes are pending in Pakistani courts, Masud’s research the opening night ceremony of the 2017 US Open Tennis Championships in New York. — AP Lee Daniels pushes through Box office top 20: Shania Twain fear with shows ‘Empire,’ ‘Star’ ‘Kingsman’ crowned No 1 bounces back ingsman: The Golden Circle” came tions, $778 average, $2,002,863, 1 Week. scar-nominated director Lee (Star’s sister Simone) and Ryan Destiny in a little shy of expectations but 8. “Stronger,” Lionsgate/Roadside Attractions, Daniels says he’s consumed by fear (Alexandra). “Kstill managed to move New Line’s $1,611,899, 574 locations, $2,808 average, with ‘Now’ Oeach time he films a new scene. Queen Latifah, who plays Carlotta horror hit “It” off the top spot at the North $1,611,899, 1 Week. Even after Daniels found meteoric success Brown, the girls’ surrogate mother, is call- American box office. Fox’s spy comedy sequel 9. “The Hitman’s Bodyguard,” Lionsgate, ife has been tough for Shania Twain in the through films such as “Monster’s Ball,” ing the premiere of both shows “Lee to 2015’s “Kingsman” debuted with $39 million, $1,608,722, 2,037 locations, $790 average, past decade, but the Canadian country-pop “Precious” and “The Butler,” along with his Daniels Night.” She’s known Daniels for according to final figures Monday. The film $73,356,701, 6 Weeks. Lartist who ruled the charts in the late 1990s popular TV series “Empire,” he still worries nearly 10 years, and believes he’s capable cost $104 million to make, but improved little 10. “Wind River,” The Weinstein Company, is hitting a high note again in her career. Twain, that his work won’t live up to people’s lofty of successfully meshing both shows on the original’s $36 million opening two years $1,257,881, 1,431 locations, $879 average, 52, will release her first studio album in 15 years expectations. “Right before I yell ‘action’ in together. “He’s particularly qualified to do ago. After two weeks atop the box office, New $31,645,630, 8 Weeks. this week after a long struggle with Lyme disease whatever I’m doing, I am as scared as a 9- this,” she said. “He has a skill, a talent. He’s Line’s “It” slid to second with $29.8 million in its 11. “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” Sony, and a devastating divorce. “The album is really year-old child,” the producer-director- able to bring people to life and bring sto- third weekend of release. $1,063,712, 1,006 locations, $1,057 aver- about a place that I’ve come to, and I’ve been for writer says. “All of my past has given me ries to life and characters to life that you Ticket sales were disappointing for Warner age, $331,857,374, 12 Weeks. longer than I’d like in a transition period,” Twain the courage and confidence on whatever might not see. He can do that like nobody Bros.’ “The Lego Ninjago Movie,” which opened 12. “Leap!” The Weinstein Company, $959,668, said in an interview. I’m going to do next, because I have to else, and he should. He’s not afraid to tack- with $20.4 million. The release was the second 1,301 locations, $738 average, “I’m just so relieved that I’m finally here now on challenge myself. But I’m still scared.” le any subject. He has a signature. He has a “Lego Movie” spinoff of the year, following $20,262,222, 5 Weeks. the other side of that ... so I thought it was really fit- lane.” “The Lego Batman Movie,” possibly hurting the 13. “Brad’s Status,” Annapurna Pictures , ting to call the album ‘Now’ as this is where I’ve performance of “Ninjago.” The top 20 movies at $953,193, 453 locations, $2,104 average, landed.” With hit songs like “Man! I Feel Like a Social media US and Canadian theaters Friday through $1,066,530, 2 Weeks. Woman!” and the romantic “You’re Still the One,” Daniels has explored homophobia in Sunday, followed by distribution studio, gross, 14. “Annabelle: Creation,” Warner Bros, Twain won four Grammys for her 1997 best-selling the African-American community through number of theater locations, average receipts $727,734, 682 locations, $1,067 average, album “Come on Over.” “Empire” and tells the story of a transgen- per location, total gross and number of weeks $101,104,430, 7 Weeks. But in 2004, her vocal chords were damaged by der woman on “Star.” He feels the best way in release, as compiled Monday by comScore. 15. “Dunkirk,” Warner Bros, $582,713, 678 loca- Lyme disease, which also afflicts people with lethar- to enlighten viewers on these topics is 1. “Kingsman: The Golden Circle,” 20th tions, $859 average, $186,292,020, 10 gy and joint pains. Four years later she split with her through music, but there has been some Century Fox, $39,023,010, 4,003 locations, Weeks. husband and musical partner Robert Lange, alleg- backlash for the gay story lines on $9,748 average, $39,023,010, 1 Week. 16. “Battle Of The Sexes,” Fox Searchlight, ing he had cheated on her with her best friend. “Empire.” Some of the criticism has come 2. “It,” Warner Bros, $29,757,494, 4,007 loca- $515,450, 21 locations, $24,545 average, Twain said she has worked hard to overcome the vocal damage. “There’s a lot I can do about regain- In this file photo, Lee Daniels, creator from social media and even Daniels’ broth- tions, $7,426 average, $266,096,375, 3 $515,450, 1 Week. ing my vocal competency, my vocal ability and I’ve of the FOX series “Empire,” poses for a er who told him, “We are black men and Weeks. 17. “Despicable Me 3,” Universal, $505,200, 539 gone through all of that, so I’m really grateful about portrait. — AP we should be perceived in a certain way, 3. “The Lego Ninjago Movie,” Warner Bros, locations, $937 average, $261,809,115, 13 because the world is already against us.” $20,433,071, 4,047 locations, $5,049 aver- Weeks. that,” she said. “But I’ll never be able to remove the Daniels, who is gay, said he found the age, $20,433,071, 1 Week. 18. “The Emoji Movie,” Sony, $417,727, 573 problem. It’s a permanent injury.” Daniels expects to experience the same comments hurtful but felt he needed to 4. “American Assassin,” Lionsgate, $6,255,617, locations, $729 average, $84,568,848, 9 Twain, who remarried in 2011, said she now aims anxiety before his shows “Empire” and push forward. 3,154 locations, $1,983 average, Weeks. to balance her career and personal life. “I’ve been “Star” premiere back-to-back today night “I’m here to elevate the gay, LGBT and $26,185,076, 2 Weeks. 19. “Nikka Zaildar 2,” Grand Showbiz Media & through a marriage already and I don’t ever want to starting at 9 pm EDT on Fox. The two black cause. It’s ultimately about human 5. “mother!” Paramount, $3,290,780, 2,368 Entertainment, $385,484, 42 locations, be divorced again so I’m invested in my relationship music dramas will combine their story rights. From the very beginning of my locations, $1,390 average, $13,459,798, 2 $9,178 average, $385,484, 1 Week. in a different way now. “I have to spread myself out lines in their two-hour separate episode career, everything has been about elevat- Weeks. 20. “Wonder Woman,” Warner Bros, $338,279, and organize my mental energy and my physical season premiere with some characters ing the human cause. And not just in front 6. “Home Again,” Open Road, $3,232,156, 355 locations, $953 average, $411,990,490, time differently and I can’t just be only working on from each show appearing in the other. of the scenes, but behind the scenes,” he 2,685 locations, $1,204 average, 17 Weeks. — AP my career all of the time,” she said. Although Twain Daniels said he originally felt nervous says. Whether people like it or not, Daniels $22,267,987, 3 Weeks. spent two years doing a nightly show in Las Vegas after Fox executives approached him with is creating more content. He’s developing 7. “Friend Request,” Entertainment Studios from 2012-2014 and toured North America in 2015, the idea of doing the crossover of the a couple of drama series projects with Fox, Motion Pictures, $2,002,863, 2,573 loca- “Now” is her first album of new music since “Up!” in shows, which both delve into the drama- he’s teaming up with Oprah Winfrey to 2002. It goes on sale on Friday. Twain is also filming filled environment of the music industry. remake the 1983 film “Terms of a race car movie with John Travolta that is due for “With that 9 o’clock time slot, I feel like all Endearment” and he wants to tell the story release in 2018. “This has all just come out of just a eyes are on me. In Hollywood, they build about Bayard Rustin, a civil rights leader phase that was a transition for me. So hey! I’m feel- you up to tear you down. So, it’s a little ter- who fought for gay rights. Ultimately, ing good,” she said. — Reuters rifying,” he says. “But I think without risk, Daniels wants to build a school for young without throwing the dice up against the filmmakers who cannot afford it. wall. ... You have to go (for it). Otherwise, “This is about telling stories and giving what’s the point of life?” a voice to people who don’t have one - “Empire” kicks off its fourth season after and a face for people who are not seen,” he Terrence Howard’s character Lucious Lyon said. “Earlier on, I thought it was all about has awakened from a coma with amnesia. me. It’s not. As you grow older, and you The series stars Golden Globe winner Taraji realize that your time on this Earth is ... a P. Henson as Lyon’s ex-wife Cookie who gift from God to pass along what you’ve along with their three sons is fighting for a learned - to inspire others what you have share of the family entertainment compa- done. Make them fearless so they can ny. On “Star,” in its second season, three break down barriers that are in front of young women are looking for a fresh start them.”— AP in Atlanta in hopes of becoming music stars as an all-girl group. The series stars Jude Demoerest (Star), Brittany O’Grady This image released by Twentieth Century Fox shows Channing Tatum, left, and Halle In this file photo, singer Idina Menzel looks over her shoul- Berry in “Kingsman: The Golden Circle.” — AP der at photographers at the 2016 AFI Life Achievement Award Gala Tribute to John Williams at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. — AP Residente leads Latin Grammys nominations with 9 nods Idina Menzel marries uerto Rican rapper Residente’s first solo album post- devastated Puerto Rico, which was hit by a Category 4 hurri- Calle 13 has received a leading nine nominations for this cane, Maria, less than a week ago. one-time ‘Rent’ Pyear’s Latin Grammys, including for record, song and Ten acts are vying for album, song and record of the year, album of the year. Colombian sensation Maluma follows him unlike the traditional Grammy Awards where five nominees with seven, Shakira’s comeback gathered six, and Juanes, Mon compete. Album of the year nominees also include Ruben co-star Aaron Lohr Laferte and producer Kevin Jimenez ADG received five nomi- Blades with Roberto Delgado & Orquesta, Antonio Carmona, nations each, the Latin Recording Academy announced Vicente Garcia, Nicky Jam, Juanes, Mon Laferte, Natalia rozen” star Idina Menzel has married actor Aaron Tuesday. The announcement was delayed by nearly a week Lafourcade, Shakira and Danay Suarez. The record of the Lohr. Menzel posted wedding pictures to her after last year’s devastating earthquake in Mexico and hurri- year list is comprised by a diverse group of artists, genres “FFacebook page on Monday, writing: “Wanted to let canes Irma and Maria, which have devastated the Caribbean. and collaborations that include Residente’s “Guerra,” you know... married the love of my life Aaron Lohr this week- This year’s ceremony could provide Juanes with the oppor- “Amarrame” by Mon Laferte, featuring Juanes; Shakira and end at our home. Dad & son walked me down the aisle. It was tunity to break his record tie with Calle 13: Both acts have won Maluma’s “Chantaje”, “El Ratico” by Juanes with Kali Uchis, magical.” The 46-year-old Menzel and Lohr, who’s 41, appeared 21 awards each. Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee’s megahit Jorge Drexler’s “El Surco,” Maluma’s “Felices Los 4,” Blades’ “La in the 2005 film adaptation of the musical “Rent.” “Despacito” got four nominations: record and song of the year, Flor De La Canela,” Alejandro Fernandez’s “Quiero Que They also share a Disney background. Menzel provides the as well as best urban fusion/performance for its remix with Vuelvas” and Ricky Martin’s “Vente Pa’ Ca,” also featuring voice for Queen Elsa and her “Let It Go” anthem in “Frozen.” Justin Bieber and best short form music video for its clip. The Maluma. The Latin Grammys will air live on Univision on Nov Lohr appeared in Disney’s Mighty Ducks movies and the com- pany’s 1992 adaptation of Broadway’s “Newsies.” This is the In this file photo, singers Luis Fonsi, left, and Daddy video, the most watched on YouTube with over 3.8 billion 16 from Las Vegas. — AP second marriage for Menzel, who shares a son with ex-hus- Yankee perform during the Latin Billboard Awards in Coral views since its January release, was produced and directed by band Taye Diggs. — AP Gables, Fla.—AP Carlos R. Perez and highlights the color and beauty of now lifestyle WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017

FEATURES

Chinese participants take part in the third Chinese-Bulgarian yoghurt fes- tival in the village of Momchilovtsi.

A view shows the Bulgarian village of Momchilovtsi. — AFP photos Bulgarian women wearing traditional costume dance during the third Chinese-Bulgarian yoghurt festival in the village of Momchilovtsi. Bulgarian village goes Chinese in yoghurt craze

he Bulgarian villagers hunker over their books, strug- kets and its adverts a common sight on bus stops and on Long and winding road gling with their Mandarin words and characters. But television. Its popularity has been helped by the contami- The 1,200 inhabitants of Momchilovtsi already host Tthey are not going to China-the Middle Kingdom is nated milk powder scandal in China in 2008 pushing many about 1,000 Chinese tourists annually out of a total of 5,000- coming to them. Because of yoghurt. “It’s difficult. You have consumers towards brands seen as international or tradi- 6,000 visitors, mayor Siyka Surkova told AFP. “The numbers Young Bulgarians play bagpipes during the third Chinese-Bulgarian to be quite tough not to give up,” says pensioner Tsvetka tional and therefore safer. With its slogan “The miraculous are growing every year and this is only normal considering yoghurt festival in the village of Momchilovtsi. Radkova, 66, as she puffs and pants in the classroom in the secret of the village where people live a long life- the huge advertising campaign for the yoghurt in China village of Momchilovtsi in southern Bulgaria. Momchilovtsi”, sales were 6.0 billion yuan (765 million euros, that also benefits us,” she added. In 2014, the Chinese ver- But her daughter Veselina, 37, accompanied in the les- $910 million) last year, a Bright spokesman told AFP. sion of reality TV show “Survivor” was set in Momchilovtsi, sons by her nine-year-old little girl, trots out whole sen- “Momchilovtsi has been famous as ‘the village of with seven contestants thrown in with a local family armed tences in Chinese, to the cheers of her classmates. Few longevity’ because of the high number of centenarians liv- only with a Chinese-Bulgarian dictionary. Europeans, and not many Bulgarians for that matter, have ing here,” Pan Jianjun, the spokesman, said on the sidelines But with just 18,500 Chinese visitors last year, Bulgaria is heard of Momchilovtsi, perched high on the slopes of the of the festival. Indeed, at least three participants in the lan- seriously lagging in the Europe-wide drive to attract Chinese Rhodope mountains in south-eastern Europe near the bor- guage course-for which 40 locals have enrolled-told AFP tourists. Direct flights between the two countries are only der with Greece. But in China, Momchilovtsi conjures up they had family members who had lived to be over 100. but a dream, experts said. Visitors to Momchilovtsi have to images of mystery, wonder and longevity, having given its “Our research showed that one of the secrets of this longevi- take an internal flight within Europe to Sofia or Plovdiv. And name to a kind of drinking yoghurt that is all the rage for ty is the local yoghurt,” Pan said. from there it’s a long and winding journey of several hours Chinese consumers. up to the village-but worth it. — AFP This summer Momchilovtsi played host to hundreds of Chinese visitors attending the village’s third Chinese- Bulgarian yoghurt festival. Signs in Chinese are everywhere, A Chinese tourist (right) buys herbs during the third Chinese-Bulgarian directing visitors to the village hall for lectures on yoghurt’s yoghurt festival in the village of Momchilovtsi. prodigious health benefits or to yoghurt and cheese tast- ings. Children run around chirping “Ni Hao” (“Hello” in Chinese) and giving out festival brochures and village maps in Bulgarian, Chinese and English. A beauty pageant on the festival’s second day picked the new “Yoghurt Queen” to adorn the Momchilovtsi packaging. “There’s two things every Chinese knows about Bulgaria-yoghurt and roses,” said one visitor, Lei Lin from Shanghai.

Village of longevity The people of Momchilovtsi have been used to the sight of Chinese visitors ever since Chinese firm Bright Dairy in 2009 took back home the bacteria found in the local yoghurt. Crucially, the strain enabled Bright to develop for Chinese consumers drinking yoghurt-drinkable with a straw, so easier to consume than the thicker stuff-that does- n’t need to be chilled. But Bright didn’t forget its roots, branding its product “Momchilovtsi”, its label featuring a Bulgarian maiden in traditional dress and cultivating links with the village. Chinese tourists attend the third Chinese-Bulgarian yoghurt festival in Known in Chinese by the shorter name “Mosili’an”, it’s the Bulgarian children pose with their Chinese language diplomas during the third Chinese-Bulgarian yoghurt fes- the village of Momchilovtsi. top seller in this booming sector, on sale in most supermar- tival in the village of Momchilovtsi. Diwali festivals grow in US, from Disney to Times Square

he holiday of Diwali is starting to light up mainstream year, has drawn tens of thousands of people in the past. It’s San Antonio, Texas, has one of the nation’s largest city- Other places hosting Diwali celebrations include Cary, America. Diwali, a festival of lights celebrated by Hindus, scheduled for Oct 7, from 2 pm to 9 pm, with dance perform- sponsored celebrations of Diwali, drawing more than 15,000 North Carolina, in Regency Park, Oct 14; Flushing Town Hall, TSikhs, Jains and others in India and other countries, has ances, Bollywood singers, a bazaar of food, saris and other people each year. The 2017 event, scheduled for Nov 4 at La Queens, New York, Oct 29; the Seattle Center, Oct 21; the long been observed in immigrant communities around the US. goods, and a lighting ceremony. While Diwali celebrations are Villita, a historic arts village, will be its ninth annual Diwali cele- Dulles Expo center in Chantilly, Virginia, Oct 7-8; and Memorial But now public celebrations of the holiday are starting to pop held throughout the fall, the holiday’s actual date is Oct 19. bration with Indian dance, entertainment, food, crafts, fire- Park in Cupertino, California, Sept 30 . In Columbus, Ohio, the up in places ranging from Disneyland and Times Square to Also called Deepavali, it’s an autumn harvest festival held just works and the release of lighted candles into the San Antonio Ohio History Center is hosting a photo exhibit about the city’s parks and museums. The Times Square event is the brainchild before the Hindu new year. Celebrations include lighting oil River along the city’s River Walk. fast-growing population of immigrants from Nepal, Bhutan of Neeta Bhasin, who says that while many Indian immigrants lamps or candles called diyas to symbolize “a victory of knowl- New York City’s Rubin Museum will mark Diwali with an and India, with a Diwali event Oct 8. Bhasin said Diwali’s mes- have found great success in the US, “still people don’t know edge over ignorance, light over darkness, good over evil,” said overnight Ragas Live Festival featuring more than 50 Indian sage is particularly timely now. “It is extremely important to be much about India. I felt it’s about time that we should take Bhasin. classical musicians performing amid the museum’s collection together and showcase to the world, not only Indians, but the India to mainstream America and showcase India’s rich culture, The Diwali celebration at Disney California Adventure Park of sacred Himalayan art. The event begins Oct 21 at 10 am and entire immigrant community, to be together with Americans heritage, arts and diversity to the world. And I couldn’t find a in Anaheim, California, includes performances of traditional continues all day and night through Oct 22 at 10 am. and to show the world we are one, we are all the same human better place than the center of the universe: Times Square.” Indian dances and a Bollywood dance party for guests. It’s part Chai and mango lassis will be served, visitors will have beings,” she said. — AP Bhasin, who came to the United States from India 40 years of a festival of holidays at the theme park reflecting cultural access to all the galleries and pop-up events like meditation ago, is president of ASB Communications, the marketing firm traditions from around the world. The Disney festival begins and sunrise prayer will be offered. Special tickets will be sold behind Diwali at Times Square. The event, now in its fourth Nov 10 and runs through Jan 7. for the opportunity to sleep beneath the artwork.

This Nov 1, 2014 provided by Visit San Antonio shows Punjabi dancers per- This Oct 16, 2016 image shows performers at a Diwali celebration in Times This Nov 13, 2016 photo shows performers in a Diwali celebration at Disney forming Bhangra dance during San Antonio’s annual Diwali Festival - the Square in New York. California Adventure Park in Anaheim, Calif. largest City-sponsored Diwali celebration in the nation. — AP photos Bulgarian village goes Chinese in yoghurt craze

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 31

enowned British painter David Hockney says his Ever curious and innovative, the 80-year-old artist said hearing loss has helped sharpen his sense of he’s currently working on reverse perspective paintings. Going deaf has sharpened Rspace and perspective. Speaking yesterday at a Hockney donated a huge work to the Pompidou Center, retrospective of his work at Paris’ Pompidou Center, “The Arrival of Spring in Woldgate, East Yorkshire,” that’s Hockney said: “If you lose one sense, you gain other part of the traveling retrospective opening in Paris this senses, and I feel I could see space clearer. I put it down week. Hockney’s depictions of sun-dappled Los Angeles to the hearing loss. ... I can’t tell what sound is coming swimming pools and wooded Yorkshire hills are among my art, David Hockney says from where.” the best-known images in contemporary art. — AP

Renowned British painter David Hockney poses during the unveiling of a huge painting he is donating to the Pompidou Center, ‘The Arrival of Spring in Woldgate, East Yorkshire’ in Paris, France, yesterday. — AFP

Egypt concert-goers arrested for raising rainbow flag

t least six people have been arrested in Egypt after tasked with carrying out the investigation into the inci- Egyptian court sentenced 11 men to jail terms of up to on social networks. Egypt’s conservative musicians syndi- raising the rainbow flag of the lesbian, gay, bisex- dent on Friday at a concert of Lebanese band Mashrou’ 12 years after convicting them of “debauchery and incite- cate said Mashrou’ Leila, whose singer Hamed Sinno is Aual and transgender community at a Cairo con- Leila, according to a judicial source. ment to debauchery”, provoking international criticism. openly homosexual, would not be authorized to perform cert, security and judicial sources said. They are accused Egyptian law does not expressly ban homosexuality, Egyptian police use US-based social networking applica- again in Egypt. The group has previously been banned of “public indecency” and “inciting immorality among but gay men have previously been arrested on charges tion Grindr to monitor homosexuals. Monday’s rainbow from performing in the Jordanian capital. — AFP young people”, the sources said following Monday’s including debauchery and contempt for religion in the flag incident has sparked controversy pitting conserva- arrests. Egypt’s state security prosecutor has been deeply conservative Muslim society. In April 2016, an tives against advocates of civil liberties in the media and

Syrian refugee children rehearse before their graduation concert in Beirut, Lebanon. — AP photos Syrian children in Lebanon find music school away from home ‘Art gives strength. It emanates from the ability to create and appreciate creativity’

assan Youssef was 10 years old when a local Syrian That is all I remember.” Music, he says, “makes one forget formance was elated, and Youssef drew a long cheer after composer discovered his talent: a deep powerful everything. Music is the most important thing.” Youssef is performing an old deep-voiced song. Youssef said he is Hvoice that was particularly resonant for traditional one of nearly 3 million children who have been displaced by now planning with colleagues to form a new band to play songs. It wasn’t long, however, before Syria’s grinding civil the war. In Lebanon, there are more than 1 million regis- commercially whenever they can. Director of Action for war nearly shattered Youssef’s hope of polishing his natural tered refugees, nearly half of them children. Some observers Hope, Basma El-Husseiny, said the music school offers chil- gift. He and his family left their home in a suburb of believe many more are not registered. dren traumatized by the war and displacement an avenue Damascus and traveled to Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley to The UNESCO-funded Action for Hope program Youssef to express themselves and overcome the sense of being a become one of the millions of Syrians living in refugee attended has trained 24 of those displaced children for over victim. The organization also has a video and theater pro- camps around the region. a year and a half. It also aims to preserve the musical her- gram. “Art gives strength. It emanates from the ability to When the Action for Hope Music School announced it itage of Syria and the region, offering classes in theory and create and at the same time to appreciate creativity,” El- was seeking talented children among the refugee com- the history of Arabic music, and teaching students the oud Husseiny said. “This strength is needed by people who are munity in Lebanon to train, Youssef’s family were the first or Buzuq, two-string instruments used in classical Arabic marginalized, deprived and undergoing difficult circum- to encourage him to enroll. A year and half later, the now and Turkish music, as well as traditional songs from different stances much more than the rich.” 14-year-old Youssef is one of two dozen children who parts of Syria and the region. Fawaz Baker, a Syrian music adviser for the project and graduated from the program, which was capped by a The crowd at the graduation concert, many of them the former head of a music academy in Aleppo, said he busy and lively concert in a central Beirut theater Friday. proud family members, cheered enthusiastically as the picked 24 children from a total of 200 students who applied. Youssef, a lead singer in the concert, had come a long way children played a repertoire of over a dozen songs from He chose to train them in a diverse set of songs from Turkey, from the early days of the war when a mortar round fell Syria, Egypt and Turkey. The crowd sang along and Egypt and Syria’s region. “We tried to diversify, so that the near his family’s home. clapped to their performance of “muwashahat” from children can choose in the future,” he said. Action for Hope is “We only heard the sound of a mortar, it fell near us,” said Aleppo, a form of poetic ballad for which the Syrian city is now taking its program to Jordan, where 20 new Syrian stu- Youssef, whose shy manner contradicts a deep and impres- famous. The band also performed famous old Egyptian dents have also enrolled to learn music. — AP sive performance of traditional Syrian songs. “When we songs, stumbling some as they pronounced the Egyptian looked it had apparently brought down a whole building. dialect. The spirit during the more than 60-minute per-