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WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 • 11 SHA’BAAN 1437 • Volume 21 • Number 6800 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar

Emir honours outgoing envoys Emir receives Qatar and Tunisia set message from Niger President to boost bilateral ties DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani yesterday received a written message from of the Tunisian President, Ladhari hoped President of the Republic of Niger, that the current visit would give new push Mahamadou Issoufou, pertaining Tunisian President Beji Caid to cooperation between the two countries to bilateral relation. Assistant Min- Essebsi arrives in Doha on a in the labour sector. ister for Foreign Affairs H E Sultan three-day visit. “Our cooperation with Qatar in the labour bin Saad Al Muraikhi received the sector goes back to 1981 with the signing of an message as he met with Niger’s agreement between Ministry of Labour and Ambassador Hassan Embarak Social Affairs of Qatar and the Ministry of Social Boubacar. The Peninsula Affairs of Tunisia, followed by other agree- ments,” said Ladhari. The number of Tunisian workers in Qatar Norway King greeted is significant and Qatar’s labour market has a DOHA: The current visit of Tunisian Presi- great potential due to the comprehensive eco- DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim dent Beji Caid Essebsi to Qatar is expected to nomic development the country is witnessing, bin Hamad Al Thani sent a cable boost relations between the two countries, he added. He said Tunisia is ready to cooper- of congratulations to King Harald V especially in the labour sector, according to ate with Qatar in vocational and professional of Norway on the occasion of his Zied Ladhari, Minister of Employment and training and development. country’s National Day. Training of Tunisia. The skilled Tunisian labour force can sup- Essebsi arrived here yesterday on a three- port the development taking place in Qatar and day official visit. He was received at the Hamad “our professional training institutions can have Zuma arrives today International Airport by the Minister of Finance bigger role in this regard,” he added. H E Ali Sherif Al Emadi, Qatar’s Ambassador Meanwhile, the Qatari - Tunisian Business DOHA: President Jacob Zuma of to Tunisia Abdullah bin Nasser Al Humaidi and Council yesterday reviewed ways to enhance South Africa will arrive in Doha Tunisian Ambassador to Qatar Salah Al Salhi. economic cooperation and to identify the today for a two-day official visit Several new agreements in economic, secu- investment opportunities available in both Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani hands over the Sash of Merit to Ambassador to Qatar. The Emir H H Sheikh rity and other sectors are expected to be signed countries, during a meeting held at the head- of Sultanate of Oman Mohammed bin Nasser Al Wihaibi and Sudan Ambassador Yasser Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani will during the visit. quarters of Qatar Chamber. Khadir Khalafallah (not in picture) at the Emiri Diwan yesterday on the occasion of hold talks with the South African In an interview with the Qatar News their end of tenure in Qatar. The Emir wished success in their future assignments. leader tomorrow on bilateral rela- Agency in Tunis on the occasion of the visit → Continued on page 2 tions. Qatar 2022 will be a huge success: FIFA official Medical Commission unit opened at Mowasalat

By Armstrong Vas with Qatar having success- Nigeria, and earned the acco- the competition with 16 teams By Sanaullah Ataullah ical checkup to Mowasalat employees. The The Peninsula fully hosted football events in lades from the football world. and they did brilliantly,” said The Peninsula QR15m facility, initially has a capacity to accom- the past even at short notice. “In 1995, Qatar hosted the Gagg, on the sidelines of the modate 200 visitors a day. Gagg, who is now asso- U-20 championship, when World Stadium Congress 2016, It would be upgraded to accommodate up to DOHA: Veteran football ciated with the football FIFA could not go to Nigeria, here yesterday. The two-day 450 visitors per day in the near future and the facil- administrator Walter Gagg is governing body as director, we came here (to Qatar) with conference ends today. DOHA: A Medical Commission unit opened ity may be open to the general public later. confident that the 2022 World said Qatar hosted the U-20 less than three months to go yesterday at Mowasalat headquarters close to Cup will be a ‘huge success’ FIFA World Cup, stepping in for for the event. Qatar organised → Continued on page 2 Industrial Area to provide mandatory med- → Continued on page 3 02 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 HOME

Businessmen from Qatar Qatar-South Africa invited to Tunisia ties to grow further Continued from page 1 with Zuma’s visit A number of Qatari busi- nessmen and their Tunisian counterparts representing var- ious sectors like agriculture relations between the two countries and building material, tourism, have developed with visits at the medicine and mineral process- South Africa backs highest level which contributed to ing industries were present. Qatar’s efforts to the signing of agreements and uni- Addressing at the meeting, fying visions on international peace Abdulrahman bin Abdul- reach a peaceful and security issues. lah Al Ansari, representing solution in Syria and Both countries have consen- the Qatari side said that the lift the siege on the sus political visions for achieving relations between Qatar and security and stability in the African Tunisia have seen a remarka- Palestinian people. Continent, and through South Afri- ble development on all private ca’s leading position in the African intra-regional trade levels and Union and its organisations, Qatar the private sector in the two contributes to efforts to resolve countries has a clear desire to The Peninsula conflicts in Africa, including its strengthen economic ties. mediation to resolve the crisis in He noted that the two sides Darfur. Doha is also hosting Afri- have so far signed 15 conven- can officials to discuss its mediation tions and protocols related to DOHA: Qatar and South Africa’s and support in resolving conflicts economic, financial, cultural, distinct ties and cooperation have and crises in Nigeria and Djibouti, intellectual, educational and grown significantly over recent and its relief and humanitarian role technological sectors. years. in Somalia, Niger, the Comoros and Al Ansari stressed the need Relations have become more other countries. for giving attention to tourism diverse since South African President South Africa agrees with Qatar’s sector and raise awareness Jacob Zuma’s visit to Doha in 2012 efforts to reach a peaceful solution among businessmen of the which boosted them to new pros- in Syria and lift the siege imposed two countries, and its impor- pects by the signing of agreements on the Palestinian people out of the tance in achieving economic in various fields, including energy, national reconciliation experience, diversification. construction, agriculture and infra- founded by the late President Nelson Mohamed Alkaali, head of structure development. Mandela in South Africa. the Tunisian side expressed the Zuma’s two-day visit to Qatar South Africa has confirmed its hope that the private sector in from today reflects the keenness of commitment to the success of the both countries would expand both leaderships to develop part- State of Qatar to host the 2022 World partnership and the Qatari nership, Qatar News Agency report. Cup and shown willingness to trans- -Tunisian Business Council Relationship also witnessed a fer its experience in the organisation would contribute to increas- growth in various fields through of the 2010 World Cup to Qatar. ing joint investments. the frequency of visits between South Africa was also an impor- Alkaali called on the officials of the two countries, and tant stop of the campaign of Dr Qatari side to take advantage through their cooperation in order to Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kawari, of investment opportunities in serve the interests of the two coun- Cultural Adviser at the Emiri Diwan Tunisia. tries, especially in trade, economic and candidate for the post of Unesco The Tunisian side extended and investment fields as well as in Director-General. an invitation to the Qatari the field of energy and other crit- Qatar is the seventh trade part- businessmen to visit Tunisia to ical areas. South Africa and Qatar ner of South Africa in the Middle East get acquainted with the invest- Tunisia’s President Beji Caid Essebsi arrived yesterday in Doha on a three-day official visit to the country. enjoy good relations dating back to region. Trade exchange has reached ment atmosphere and available He was welcomed by Minister of Finance H E Ali Sherif Al Emadi, Qatari Ambassador to Tunisia Abdullah 1994 after the exclusion of the South more than 2bn rand from 1bn rand opportunities in the country. bin Nasser Al Humaidi and Tunisian Ambassador to Qatar Salah Al Salhi, at Hamad International Airport. Africa apartheid regime. Diplomatic in 2012. Stadium technologies discussed

The Peninsula in parking areas, stadiums, malls and other pub- lic places. As every business turns digital, Mark Sear, Big & Fast Data CTO Transformation at EMC, delved DOHA: Stadium technologies to deliver a safe and into how businesses can obtain value and profit by excellent fan experience were among the subjects using data analysis as well as some of the availa- discussed at the World Stadium Congress 2016 ble technologies to make this possible. which opened yesterday at Westin Doha Hotel The breakout sessions concluded with a pres- and Spa. entation on ‘LED Stadium Lighting Innovations’ by World leading providers of technologies used Julius Szaraz, CEO of Leader Light during which in smart stadiums presented innovative solutions he gave intelligent and efficient lighting technol- during the breakout sessions to the audience ogy in stadiums and sports arenas as well as malls which comprised stadium operators, architects, and public areas. Specifically, he talked about sta- contractors, federation directors and tournament dium lighting based on FIFA requirements and on stakeholders, among others. the type of sport events. Alan Zeng, Project Manager of Hikvision pre- Among the other topics that were covered sented the company’s complete line of products yesterday were security protocols and legacy pro- and solutions on video surveillance particularly grammes looking at both regional and global case those that would be very useful to ensuring safety studies and demands. in stadiums. He provided a short yet detailed pres- More than 300 people are attending the four- entation on the various features of the state-of-the day conference organised by IQPC in partnership art video surveillance systems such as auto track- with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Leg- ing, access control, counting and face recognition acy in the run-up to World Cup 2022. Qatar one of the best organisers of mega events: FIFA Director

Continued from page 1

Gagg said Qatar had accomplished the job of hosting mega events and rated them as one of the best organisers. “They (Qatar) are top organiser’s and when they say something and organize an event, they do it to perfection. We have full confidence in the organ- izers of Qatar 2022,” he added. Gagg said FIFA’s main lookout, when it comes to fulfilling stadia requirements and specifications, a venue must meet in order to uphold FIFA World Cup standards, is security and comfort for spec- tators, press and technical people. “The main requests we have always for the organizers is - comfort at the stadia and security – if we have stadia which fulfil the two conditions, the stadia is perfect. The technical infrastructure for technical people and infrastructure for play- ers and also for the media, is also important. We just do not have 100 or 150 media representative Walter Gagg, Director, FIFA, at the World but thousands and thousands of media represent- Stadium Congress and Exhibition 2016 at atives and we have to give them the best,” said the WestIn Hotel yesterday. FIFA official, while explaining the stadia require- Pic: Baher A / The Peninsula ments and specifications. “We have to make sure spectators, technical infrastructure for players, and technicians, all of Reflecting on his journey in the FIFA organ- them, must have the best conditions, which in turn ization over the last 30 years Gagg said: “Many helps in the competitions to be a huge success,” changes have happened, but special items remain he added. the same – delivering a high quality product.” HOME WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 03

Mowasalat medical centre to benefit workers

Continued from page 1 community. The workers will get all the atten- “All the equipment are as per latest tech- tion that is needed in the field of health and nology and international medical standards The Medical Commission of Mowasalat- will be provided with the services of highest imported from the best companies in the world Karwa was inaugurated yesterday by Minister standards,” he added. with consultation and guidance of Ministry of Transport and Communications H E Jassim Mowasalat Medical Commission is of Health. bin Saif Al Sulaiti and Minister of Administra- equipped with a registration section, general “Our ITC project team with Dr. Emad had tive Development, Labour and Social Affairs practitioner clinic, ENT clinic, dental clinic, worked along with commitment and attention H E Dr Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi. laboratory section, radiology section and to detail to aid the European Software com- The inauguration ceremony was attended Occupational Health clinic, mainly for pre- pany for delivering this high-tech software by Nasser Mohammed Al Malki, Chairman, employment medical checkup, and annual that would be used at the Medical Commission Mowasalat Transportation Company; Khalid medical checkup. which is integrated and accessible by Minis- Nasser Al Hail, Managing Director, Mowasalat; Mowasalat ensured to equip the Med- try of Public Health. other senior officials and dignitaries. ical Centre with a complete and integrated He mentioned that Mowasalat has about “The new Medical Commission is meant building with additional facilities like con- 7,800 employees and it will ensure employ- Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti and Minister to meet the objectives within the framework sultation rooms, emergency room, isolation ees are looked after with care and attention of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs H E Dr Issa bin Saad Al Jafali of the national agenda to provide the best unit, well-equipped pharmacy and first aid for their fitness, safety and health. Al Nuaimi inaugurating the Medical Commission unit with other officials at Mowasalat medical treatment and preventive services units at Karwa city and Al Khor city depot. “The centre is open from 7am to 9pm, headquarters. in health for the workers category,” said Al “We have launched this initiative to make working in two shifts. All our facilities are Sulaiti speaking to the media on the sidelines available the resources and investment made certified and licensed by Ministry of Public of the inauguration. in the Medical centre and its top class facilities Health and the ministry of environment,” said and designed for the Medical Commission to swiftly but also integrated with connection “This is to reflect the State’s interest in to also cater to those who are not employees Medical Center Director, Dr. Emad Bahloul. ensure accurate and reliable transmission of between our diagnostic equipment and the showing care and provide highest level of of Mowasalat in the labour intensive Indus- He added: “The medical software system data. Ministry of Public Health and Ministry of services to the employees in the expatriate trial area,” said Al Hail. is “The CMS system” exclusively developed The system helps not only to serve patients Interior.”

Mercedes-Benz C-Class & GLK-Class QRCS to build 200 homes for widows in Syria models recalled the Syrian-Turkish borders. internally displaced people (IDPs) Fund is being provided by and roads and away from areas wit- Qatar Red Crescent Alfardan Group in form of a donation. nessing clashes. The area is also The Peninsula Society completes Some 1,600 people of 200 families rich in clay soil. There will be thou- who have lost their breadwinners and sands of indirect beneficiaries from and hands over have been living in nearby makeshift increased trade and economic activ- 100 homes to camps will benefit from the project. ities and IDPs at the camps, who DOHA: The Ministry of Economy The ‘Alfardan Charitable Town’ will will have more access to health and and Commerce, in collaboration beneficiaries in Afes be built under the ‘Honourable Life’ other humanitarian services. QRCS with Nasser Bin Khaled Automo- and plans to build development project launched by has already built 100 houses in Afes biles, dealer of Mercedes Benz 2,000 clay homes QRCS to provide adequate housing on the outskirts of Idlib and handed vehicles, has announced the recall units for Syrian families. them over to the beneficiaries under of Mercedes-Benz C-Class and in Aleppo and Idlib Each house will be developed over its housing scheme. It has positively GLK-Class models of 2008-2009 countryside this year. an area of 60sqm and will comprise impacted the community by greatly because a function impairment two bedrooms, a reception area, a improving the lives of the benefici- may occur in the SRS control mod- kitchen and a bathroom. The project aries. Unlike emergency shelter tents, ule. also includes complete infrastruc- clay houses are safe and can protect It urged customers to report The Peninsula ture like water supply, a surface water families against heat in the summer any violations to its Consumer well and tank, sewage network, roads, and cold in the winter. Protection and Anti-Commercial land-levelling, and gardens. A Qatar Red Crescent Society representative handing over the key of QRCS plans to build 2,000 clay Fraud Department through its call Facilities for necessary services a house to one of the beneficiaries in Afes in Syria. houses across Aleppo and Idlib coun- centre: 16001; email: info@mec. DOHA: Qatar Red Crescent Society will also be built, including the estab- tryside this year. The project aims to gov.qa; Twitter: @MEC_Qatar; (QRCS) has announced that it will lishment of a school, bakery, health panels to ensure social and environ- ‘Alfardan Charitable Town’ will be shift the beneficiaries from emer- Instagram: MEC_Qatar; and the build 200 housing units for widows care centre, workshop for widows, mental well-being of the residents. built on a 7.5-hectare land allocated gency shelters to permanent homes, ministry’s mobile app for Android in Harem city of Syria. The city is in market, two mosques, a solid waste The project will also bear the oper- by the municipality of Harem. said Saleh bin Ali Al Mohannadi, Sec- and IOS: MEC_Qatar. the Idlib Governorate and located near removal system, and solar energy ation costs of the school for one year. It is near many camps for retary-General, QRCS. 04 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 HOME Al Rayyan Stadium wins top award QU college wins the culture, heritage and needs of the local community,” said Al Fehani after accreditation for The Supreme the award ceremony held last evening Committee for in Doha. its programmes “The stadium construction is Delivery & Legacy making good progress and we will honoured with the continue to ensure that the Al Rayyan DOHA: Qatar Univer- community is incorporated in all sity College of Education Stadium Design of stages of the construction and leg- (QU-CED) has been the Year award at the acy planning of this stadium, as they awarded a five-year 2016 World Stadium have been from the very beginning accreditation for its aca- of this exciting project. demic programmes Congress. “We are creating not just a sports by the accreditation stadium for one of Qatar’s best sup- organisation NCATE/ ported sides, but also a community CAEP, making it the first The Peninsula hub which will be used on a daily national college out- basis by families in this area. side the US to gain the “We believe that this innovative achievement. approach is also encapsulated in the Dr Mazen Hasna, DOHA: The Supreme Committee Work on Al Rayyan Stadium is making good progress. design of this stadium.” Vice-President, QU, and for Delivery & Legacy (SC) has been Progress on site at Al Rayyan Sta- Chief Academic Officer awarded the Stadium Design of the Abdulla Al Fehani, Al Rayyan Magazine Editor Matt Ross and Tim award on behalf of the Supreme Com- dium is advancing with the club’s new said, “The significant Year award for Al Rayyan Stadium Stadium Project Manager at the SC, Brouw, Stadium and Tournament mittee and a reconfirmation of our training grounds set for completion achievement reflects the at the 2016 World Stadium Congress received the award announced by a Consultant. commitment to excellence in creating to be used for the coming Qatar Stars college’s ongoing efforts in Doha. judging panel that included Stadia “It is an honour to receive this innovative designs which incorporate League season. to enhance its pro- grammes and outcomes. It underlines the college’s core role in advancing the education sector in 132 students graduate Qatar and the region.” Dr Hissa Sadiq, Dean of the college, said, “The achievement highlights from ABP Class of 2016 the high-quality pro- grammes the college offers to its students and its position as a key part- The Peninsula of more of Hamad Bin Khalifa Uni- ner in contributing to the versity’s (HBKU) partner universities. development of the edu- About 90 percent of ABP graduates cation sector in Qatar.” will have gained admissions to Eng- Dr Yehya Al Nakeeb, DOHA: Academic Bridge Programme lish language universities in Qatar and Associate Dean for Aca- The graduates and officials from Academic Bridge Programme at the ceremony. (ABP) of Qatar Foundation celebrated abroad, mostly the UK and the US. demic Affairs at the its 15th Graduation Ceremony for 132 The class brings the total number college, said, “The students. of ABP graduates to 2,697. spoke about the class followed by a graduated in 2008 and 2011. master’s at Translation and Interpret- accreditation is a tes- More than 76 percent of Class of After a procession of faculty and welcome speech on behalf of the class Yousef Al Bader who graduated ing Institute at HBKU. tament to the college’s 2016 are Qatari and the remaining students into the theatre at QNCC, the by Sara Al Saiqal, Class Salutatorian. in 2008 and joined Texas A&M is now The valedictorian was Qatari stu- commitment to provide from 17 nationalities. The number Qatari national anthem was played Reflections on the 2015-2016 aca- working as a senior engineer with dent Fai Ibrahim Al Sulaiti who was quality programmes and of girls in ABP this year is about 77 followed by a recitation of verses demic year were provided by Jawaher Qatar Petroleum. the first in the class academically. prepare competent and percent. from the Holy Quran, by ABP stu- Al Khater, Vice-President, Students The second speaker, Ameena Al The Salutatorian (second in the class, highly skilled graduates Around 52 percent of the gradu- dent Abdulla Al Malki. Association. Keynote speeches were Haroon, graduated in 2011 and joined academically) was Sara Al Saiqal, a for the labour market.” ating class have been accepted to one Dr Bryan Lewallen, Director, ABP, given by two ABP students who Carnegie Melon and is continuing her Qatari student. Ooredoo launches Voice over LTE

The Peninsula particularly as the number of VoLTE-com- “In addition to the patible devices continues to grow this year. incredible quality of VoLTE will enable customers to make service provided to crystal clear HD voice calls over the 4G customers using VoLTE- DOHA: Ooredoo yesterday announced the data network and provide faster call setup. compatible devices, we soft launch of its Voice over LTE (VoLTE) Customers will also be able to switch will also see improve- network, as the company continues to between ongoing voice calls and high- ments for 3G and 4G enhance and expand its nationwide Super- quality video calls as they want. service customers, as net. They will be able to browse the Inter- more traffic is carried The launch, which is another key net on the 4G network while on a call — the on the LTE network, and step in the company’s Supernet strategy, first time they are able to do this. particularly as more will place Qatar on a list of a handful of Waleed Al Sayed, CEO, Ooredoo Qatar, voice services migrate to countries in the world supporting VoLTE said: “Since we began the trial of VoLTE in the higher speed, higher service. 2015, we have seen positive results across capacity LTE bandwidth.” Ooredoo anticipates strong demand, our network. To provide these benefits to end users, Ooredoo is working with the world’s largest device manufacturers on a pipe- line of VoLTE devices to ensure that VoLTE-ena- bled smartphones are certified and available in Qatar. Implementation of VoLTE is based on soft- ware-defined data centre architecture and a range of cutting-edge technol- ogies, including network function virtualisation and software-defined networking. The launch of VoLTE puts Ooredoo in a lead- ership position on the global innovation path towards fully-converged information communica- tion technology (ICT). Ooredoo launched HD Voice on its mobile network in 2012, and has been constantly improv- ing call quality across the country. VoLTE HD voice quality will fur- ther enhance the quality of calls. The company con- tinues to enhance and upgrade the Ooredoo Supernet as part of its vision to make Qatar the best-connected country in the world. Its evo- lutionary approach to the Ooredoo Supernet, which sees the company continue to introduce cutting-edge technol- ogy and expand capacity, delivers a superior expe- rience every month. HOME WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 05

Greetings sent to Al Jazeera boosts audio King of Norway Atlanta Summer Reading on National Day Programme takes off with QA quality with latest digital wireless systems QNA

Qatar Airways, the The Peninsula While HD video is commonplace DOHA: Deputy Emir H H Sheikh world’s ‘Best Airline’ in the industry, Al Jazeera’s deci- Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani sion to utilise Digital 9000 system yesterday sent a cable of congratu- seeks to inspire reflects its recognition of the signif- lations to King Harald V of Norway love for exploration DOHA: In what has been the larg- icance of HD audio to the television on his country’s National Day. est broadcast project for Sennheiser viewing experience. Prime Minister and Interior through reading and in the Middle East, Al Jazeera has Although wireless offers conven- Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin travel. utilised cutting-edge wireless ience and flexibility, the success of Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani sent microphone and in-ear monitoring these systems is highly dependent a similar cable to King Harald V. systems at its studios in Qatar. on expert design and implementa- The deployment enables Al tion. Joint efforts of Sennheiser and The Peninsula Jazeera to deliver crystal clear audio Sony Professional MEA, the systems Tunisian PM meets for its viewers and will serve as the integrator for the project, in the RF standard template for the broadcast- planning across Al Jazeera’s Doha Education Minister er’s major studios across the globe, headquarters, that includes over 15 DOHA: About 500 students received including in London, Washington DC studios, was critical. their first book for the summer, and the Balkans. “This is by no means an easy TUNIS: Tunisian Prime Minister courtesy of Qatar Airways (QA) and A highlight of the project was the feat as all the wireless microphone Habib Essid met Minister of Edu- Atlanta Public Schools in the US to use of Sennheiser’s flagship Digital and in-ear monitoring systems cation and Higher Education H E start the ‘School’s Out, Reading Is In!’ A Qatar Airways cabin crew member discusses summer travel with 9000, an all-digital wireless system required radio frequency coordina- Dr Mohammed Abdul Wahed Ali Al programme. students in grades K to 5 and shares with them their favourite travel that can transmit completely uncom- tion to ensure there is no interference Hammadi and his delegation cur- QA cabin crew and staff from stories. pressed audio, artifact-free and with between them, even if presenters rently on an official visit to Tunisia. the Americas’ office visited Heritage superb dynamics. walk from studio to studio while They discussed relations Academy Elementary School to dis- QA’s cabin crew, representing communications ambassador for The system has been metic- wearing their transmitters,” said between the two countries, espe- tribute books and share stories with six cultures from around the world, Education Above All Foundation’s ulously designed for the highest Ryan Burr, Technical Sales Man- cially in the field of education, the children on how important read- visited students to discuss summer ‘Educate a Child’ (EAC) global pro- channel counts and operation in ager, Sennheiser Middle East. means of strengthening part- ing – and travelling – is to expanding travel and their home countries and gramme. Launched in November 2012 dense frequency environments. “To ensure Al Jazeera has com- nership and issues of common personal horizons. The ‘School’s Out, to read with them. They also shared by H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Infrared synchronisation between plete flexibility with their wireless interest. Qatar University Pres- Reading Is In!’ programme inspires their favourite travel stories. Stu- EAC aims to significantly reduce the receivers and transmitters greatly microphones, we designed all 75 ident Dr Hassan Al Derham and students to maintain academic dents broke into groups to read number of children worldwide who aids setting up of the system. channels of D9000 to operate within Qatari Charge d’Affaires in Tunisia progress through the summer holi- their first summer book together. are denied their right to education. On his company’s decision to lev- the same frequency bandwidth, Abdul Aziz Al Shaikh were present. day by providing each student from The cabin crew gave each student EAC is a commitment to chil- erage the latest audio solutions, Allie allowing them to use all transmit- K-5 with books, grade-appropriate. a mini football from FC Barcelona, dren who are out of school to help Kader Gaffoor, Network Specialist, ters in any studio. We also utilised QA is partnering with Atlanta the football team of which QA is the provide them with opportunities to Sound and Audio Acoustics-Network this approach with the 72 channels FM gets message Public Schools to support the endeav- primary sponsor, to start their sum- learn and contributes to the UN’s Glo- Operations Standards, Al Jazeera of the 2000 Series IEMs, which oper- our and further inspire students to mer break. bal Education First Initiative and the Media Network, said, “Quality audio ate within a different bandwidth to from Italy explore the world through reading. Dr Meria Carstarphen, Superin- Millennium Development Goal 2. QA is integral to viewer satisfaction and the wireless microphones to avoid “We believe in the power of travel tendent, Atlanta Public Schools, said: serves thousands of young passengers this is particularly true for a network interference.” Sennheiser’s Customer DOHA: Foreign Minister H E to expand our understanding of the “Helping elementary school students each day, en route to over 150 des- such as Al Jazeera, given the nature Development and Application Engi- Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdul- world,” said Gunter Saurwein, Vice- build strong reading skills is funda- tinations around the world. As part of our content. neering team from Germany assisted rahman Al Thani received on President of the Americas, QA. mental to ensuring students graduate of its award-winning inflight serv- “We have equipped our studios the local team by designing bespoke Monday a message from his Ital- “A love of reading is the first step college and are career ready. ice, every aircraft is equipped with with the latest technologies availa- multi-antenna systems which helped ian counterpart Paolo Gentiloni on in cultivating a life of exploration, and “We are grateful for partners like state-of-the-art entertainment sys- ble in the market for the broadcast enable seamless wireless coverage relations between both countries the programme is a powerful contri- QA who provide resources and vol- tems, such as interactive games and industry. We selected systems we in all areas of the studios. and ways of enhancing them. bution to these students’ development. unteers who inspire our students to educational programmes, designed knew would give us the optimum “The D9000 wireless micro- . Assistant Foreign Minister for When they are older, we will be ready develop a love for life-long reading.” for younger audiences and toddlers. level of performance while leaving phone system is like no other Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad to make their dreams come true by QA is committed to inspiring a Baby TV, a new feature on board little room for error. This project per- in that it uses technology that is Al Muraikhi received the mes- flying them around the world, so they love of education, travel and other most flights, helps sooth and relax fectly showcases our commitment to unique to Sennheiser and is the only sage during a meeting with Italian can experience the places they read cultures in each of the communi- the youngest travellers on overnight deliver the very best experience for microphone system capable of trans- Ambassador Guido De Sanctis. about this summer.” ties it serves. QA is also the official flights. our subscribers.” mitting uncompressed audio.” 06 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 HOME ACI ‘can help counter false portrayal of Arabs’

have also seen the catastrophic consequences role Qatar has pioneered in emphasizing a For American and Arab students, faculty, that can result from the combination of such non-partisan approach to news coverage, and other interested individuals, the institute Dr John Duke Anthony, ill-informed and often outright wrong intelli- reporting, and analysis. Yet another possibility would administer year-round a rich Arabic Founding President and gence, combined with the absence of leaders could be to portray the successes of the coun- language and Islamic studies programme, with the requisite knowledge and basic under- try’s diverse series of conferences, hosting of which in itself would help to further strengthen CEO, National Council on standing of Arab and Islamic culture.” inter-faith dialogues, and convening of forums cross-cultural American-Arab understanding US-Arab Relations, says the that address the dynamics and demands of and Arab-US relations. QATAR IN FOCUS democracy and free trade – all of which have On ACI’s role in fostering ties between Arab Cultural Institute in The council is in the process of seeking engaged the participation of leaders from vir- the GCC and the US, he said such an institute Washington, DC could be funding for this project. tually every corner of the world. Still another would help a great deal to improve the image a venue for cross-cultural Thus far the greatest degree of interest in possibility could conceivably centre on the of GCC Arabs among key constituencies in the providing resources for the institute has come position and role of women in Qatari society. US. The results should benefit GCC Arabs con- understanding, dialogue, from prominent individuals in Qatar. One or more exhibits exclusively focused siderably given that in numerous ways and and collaboration through “An obvious reason is of course the oppor- on Qatari women and the scope of their for numerous reasons they remain the least tunity that such an institute offers to improve involvement and achievements in the coun- well known. The institute, for reasons related museum-style exhibitions, and expand the extent to which Qatar is appro- try’s public and private sector would almost to funding, would almost certainly have per- cultural events, and priately viewed as an important country and certainly be visited and studied by virtually manent exhibits on GCC countries. friend to the American people. Closely related every visitor to the ACI. “As envisioned, ACI cannot and must not educational programmes. to this benefit would be greater American A quite different message could be all the be expected to run on automatic pilot. Too awareness of the Arab core of Qatar’s cul- awards that Qatar’s airline receives annually. much is at stake in the overall Arab-US rela- ture. Linked to this reward would be enhanced So many awards for excellence in more than tionship to proceed in any other way. Too appreciation of the increasingly active, impor- a dozen areas of service have been won by much for not just this vital region but the rest The Peninsula tant, and consequential position and role of the airline, raising the question of what if any of the Arab countries and the world as a whole Dr John Duke Anthony, Founding Qatar in the affairs of the Arab world and remaining award is there for the airline to win. turns on the degree to which the GCC region beyond,” said Dr Anthony. President and CEO, National Council on can remain secure and stable. Linked unof- DOHA: The Arab Cultural Institute (ACI) in The institute would showcase whatever US-Arab Relations. EXHIBITS ficially to the GCC-US Strategic Dialogue, Washington, DC would become a representa- image the country’s leaders and its people The institute would feature a variety of such an Arab Cultural Institute, with promi- tion of Arab culture and civilisation in North would most want visitors and others — those level of foreign investment into one’s economy exhibits that would introduce to visitors the nent exhibits being those of the GCC countries, and South America and could play a major role who would utilize the facilities of the insti- while at the same time being a source of job essence of the richness of Arab culture and would have the merit of strengthening and in countering false imagery and portrayals of tute — to know about Qatar. Indeed, Qatar’s creation. Yet another could be Qatar’s path- history as well as its diversity. There would expanding the strategic dialogue,” said Dr Arabs, says Dr John Duke Anthony, Founding leaders, and not others, would be the ones to breaking approach to forging higher education be permanent exhibits and rotating ones. The Anthony. President and CEO, National Council on US- determine and decide what kind of lasting partnerships with world-class universities and Arab countries that contribute the most to the The institute would demonstrate GCC Arab Relations. impressions and impacts they would like to research institutions from other countries. establishment of the ACI would be rewarded. countries’ belief in and commitment to Dr Anthony currently serves on the US convey. One message, for example, albeit one There is something that is universally Such countries would be granted space in the addressing the vital need to increase and Department of State Advisory Committee on that could entail contradicting a basic precept unique to Qatar -- its leaders having led the institute for a permanent exhibit. improve American-Arab people-to-people ties International Economic Policy and the com- in Islamic charity – namely that the source way in demonstrating how not only to think By their very nature, permanent exhib- not only on the part of their governments and mittee’s subcommittee on sanctions. of a gift by a person of means to one without out of the box but also to act out of the box. its would enable all visitors to gain greater their people but also on the part of other key The council envisions ACI as a venue in means should ideally be anonymous, for the One of the most dramatic examples that would knowledge and understanding of that coun- Arab governments and their people. which cross-cultural understanding, dialogue, sake of the unfortunate recipient’s dignity -- illustrate this point is Qatar’s joining forces try’s culture, history, and its modernization The institute’s exhibits, conferences, semi- and collaboration may be achieved through could be Qatar’s extraordinary humanitarian with international centres of excellence. and development. A permanent exhibit would nars, and publications could also illustrate the museum-style exhibitions, cultural events, contributions to the victims of the American Of particular significance is what Qatar also allow that country to tell the story of its impact of Qatar’s and its fellow GCC states’ and educational programmes. hurricane disaster known as Katrina. has done with institutions renowned for positions and roles in regional and global individual and combined vital contributions “The institute would also serve as a con- Its contributions to disaster victims in their specialization in education, training, affairs. What a permanent exhibit would high- to world economic growth. In highlighting duit for gathering and sharing knowledge Beirut and Darfur, Sudan, are additional and overall human resources development. light with regard to Qatar would naturally be such results, the Institute would underscore about and understanding of the Arab world. examples. They illustrate dramatically Qatar’s A quite different approach could be to high- determined and decided by Qatar’s leaders. how the GCC countries have arguably done One service would be to correct incorrect method of ensuring that those most in need light Qatar’s pioneering role in various energy Formal educational programmes such as more than any other group of six neighbouring information. It would counter flawed anal- have their needs addressed to the fullest and LNG sectors. courses in Arabic and Islamic studies could countries to contribute to sustained regional yses and misrepresentations of Arabs,” said extent. Emphasizing the work of the Qatar Foun- be taught at the institute. Such programmes peace, security, and stability. At the same Dr Anthony. Qatar set an example for others of what dation and Qatar Foundation International and activities would have a positive effect on time, with the launching of such an Institute, “No one can one deny how false informa- could and can be done if the leaders involved could be another valuable message. the many Americans who are eager to know GCC countries, the US, and indeed the Arab tion and flawed analyses and assessments are individuals devoted to public service. Another possibility would be to exhibit more about Arab culture and the Arab peoples. world and North America as a whole would regarding Arab culture, history, society, and Another message could focus on FIFA the steady march of Al-Jazeera Television’s In time, the institute would also serve as a be celebrating the onset of a potentially new systems of governance have been used to 2022. Here one could demonstrate how major impressive entry into international media place for scholarly research with an empha- people-to-people chapter in the interaction take Americans to war against Arabs. We international sports events can increase the markets. Here, the emphasis would be on the sis on Arab and Islamic culture. of the two people’s cultures. Showroom and warehouses shut down after seizure of 4,900 fake tyres Customs officers The Peninsula in addition to a number of warehouses owned by a well-known commercial agent in the Industrial area came over the stor- seize 3.277kg of age and sale of expired tires. DOHA: Inspectors from the Ministry of The closures comes as a part of inspec- Economy and Commerce seized 4,900 tion campaigns carried out by the ministry counterfeited car tyres in the Industrial in an effort to monitor markets and com- marijuana at HIA Area. mercial activity in the State of Qatar. As part of its ongoing intensive inspec- The law prohibits the sale, display and tion campaign, the ministry closed down promotion of counterfeit and fraudulent the showroom and warehouses of the err- products and the decision of closure is The Peninsula of the General Author- ing entity for one month for storing and published on the ministry’s website as well ity of Customs, honoured selling expired products. as two daily newspapers at the offending the inspector who was The one-month administrative closure store’s own expense in line with article DOHA: The General responsible for this sei- of a showroom, located in Salwa Street, (3) of law no (8) on consumer protection. Authority of Customs zure, and he said that (GAC) has foiled an this came in light of the attempt to smuggle Authority’s efforts to 3.277kg of marijuana at detect the drug. Hamad International Air- For his part, Ajab An inspector checks the tyres at one of the warehouses. port (HIA). Mansour Al Qahtani, Cus- The seizure was hid- toms General Director at den in the passenger’ bag HIA, said: “The Customs is wrapped in carton paper. providing their employees And the smuggler was with continuous training transferred to concerned in order to enhance their authority. professionalism, and Ahmed bin Ali Al to curb illicit business Mohannadi, chairman activities.”.

Seized narcotics. MIDEAST WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 07

Yemen govt Turkish House suspends participation in set to vote on UN peace talks immunity bill AFP KUWAIT CITY: Yemen’s govern- ment suspended its participation in talks with Iran-backed rebels The vote comes two weeks yesterday for the second time this after Prime Minister Davutoglu month, the foreign minister said, President Erdogan has said he would leave office at an in a new setback to the UN-backed called for members of the AKP congress on May 22 follow- peace process. HDP to face prosecution, ing an increasingly public rift with Abdulmalek Al Mikhlafi accusing them of links to Erdogan, which fuelled speculation said on Twitter that the Houthi of splits inside the party. Davutog- militia who control the capital the outlawed Kurdistan lu’s successor as head of the AKP had “torpedoed the talks com- Workers Party (PKK) is widely expected to be a staunch pletely,” by backtracking on their militant group. Erdogan ally. commitments after a month of The vote on the bill to lift law- negotiations. makers’ immunity will be a secret “I have asked the UN envoy ballot as it concerns constitutional not to allow the rebels to waste change. An anonymous Twitter any more time ... and to make them AP & Reuters account seen as close to Erdogan comply with the reference issues loyalists, which previously predicted before we resume the talks,” said Davutoglu’s departure, said 71 AKP Mikhlafi, who heads the govern- deputies would oppose the bill. The ment delegation. ANKARA: Turkey’s parliament is bill will need the support of at least In particular the government holding a session to debate a gov- 367 deputies in the 550-seat assem- wants the Huthis to comply with ernment-backed bill that would strip bly to be passed directly, or it could a UN Security Council resolu- some legislators of their immunity be taken to a referendum if it wins tion ordering them to pull out of from prosecution. 330 votes but falls short of the 367. territory they occupied in a 2014 The ruling party’s proposed con- “God willing we will lift immuni- offensive and surrender heavy stitutional amendment would pave the ties on Friday,” said AKP lawmaker arms they captured. way for the trial of several pro-Kurdish Bulent Turan, forecasting the first Sources close to the gov- legislators on terror-related charges round of voting would be completed ernment and rebel delegations and set the stage for their ouster from overnight with a second round on confirmed that a session scheduled parliament. The amendment was put Friday. He said his party would go to take place yesterday morning forward after President Recep Tayyip for a national vote if needed. was cancelled after the govern- Erdogan accused the pro-Kurdish “If it means a referendum, let ment delegation withdrew. People’s Democratic Party, HDP, of there be a referendum. We fear noth- The pullout comes two days being the arm of an outlawed Kurd- ing,” Turan told reporters. after UN special envoy Ismail Ould ish rebel movement. If approved, the law will Cheikh Ahmed said he was opti- Prior discussions of the amend- remove the immunity of members mistic about achieving a peaceful ment, which puts 138 lawmakers at of parliament who currently face settlement in the war-torn country. risk of prosecution, have devolved investigation - targeting 138 depu- The two delegations were on into fistfights. The final vote is ties, of whom 100 are from the HDP the verge of finalising a deal to expected on Friday. The debate and main opposition CHP. release half of the detainees and comes amid a surge of violence in The CHP and nationalist MHP prisoners before the start of the the mainly Kurdish southeast of the have signalled support for the bill, holy fasting month of Ramadan country where security forces are giving potential support of 489 dep- in early June. trying to flush out Kurdish rebels. uties out of 550 seats in the assembly. The UN estimates that more The HDP, parliament’s third big- However deputies do not vote in line than 6,400 people have been killed gest party, denies direct links with with party orders on constitutional and 2.8 million displaced in Yemen the militant group PKK. issues and the voting is secret. since March last year. 08 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 MIDDLE EAST World powers fail to set date for Syria truce talks

Islamic State “terrorist” group and agenda other than that of trying to that Moscow would support it. The reach an agreement and trying to UN envoy Staffan de evident divisions between ISSG co- reach peace.” Mistura said he could chairs Russia and the United States The top US diplomat again not invite Bashar Al have cast a pall on efforts to agree a accused Assad’s forces of delib- framework under which Syria would erately starving besieged areas Assad’s regime and the “transition” away from Assad’s rule. and said UN humanitarian agen- Syrian opposition back And Kerry admitted the August 1 cies would be ordered to drop food. to peace talks until date set by the UN Security Council “Starting on June 1, if the UN is denied for agreement on the political frame- humanitarian access to any of these there is a “credible” work was a “target” not a deadline, designated areas, the ISSG calls on ceasefire. apparently softening the US stance. the World Food Programme to imme- Nevertheless, Kerry said the ISSG diately carry out a programme for air had agreed to strengthen its system bridges and air drops,” he said. for monitoring the ceasefire and that Lavrov did not dispute Ker- Iraqis check the damage after a suicide bomber detonated an explosives-rigged vehicle in northern AFP violators risked being expelled from ry’s account of the agreement, but the process. Washington regularly said Moscow’s emphasis was on the Baghdad’s Sadr City, yesterday. accuses Assad’s forces of violating fight against the Islamic State group the truce and of bombing civilians, and others he deemed terrorists. “We VIENNA: World and regional pow- whereas Russia accuses rebel fac- don’t support Assad, we support the ers working to end the Syrian conflict tions of carrying out massacres. fight against terrorism,” he said, stress- vowed to bolster the country’s shaky “We have agreed consequences ing that the strongman is the leader of 43 dead in Baghdad attacks ceasefire yesterday but failed to set a for any side’s actions that have an a recognised UN member state. new date for peace talks. US Secretary of State John Kerry AFP group. The deadliest attack hit the Abu Khattab Al Iraqi. The bomber and his Russian counterpart Sergei 52 dead as rival rebel groups Sadr City area in northern Baghdad, threw hand grenades and then det- Lavrov put on their now customary where a suicide bomber detonated onated a suicide belt, it said. joint appearance, but strains in the clash near Damascus an explosives-rigged vehicle, killing Attacks by female suicide bomb- peace process were evident. BAGHDAD: Attacks including suicide at least 21 people, security and med- ers are rare in Iraq, though they were United Nations envoy Staffan bombings in Baghdad killed at least ical officials said. once more common than they have de Mistura said he could not invite BEIRUT: At least 50 fighters and two civilians were killed yesterday in 43 people yesterday, the second time Another attack hit the Shaab become in recent years. Bashar Al Assad’s regime and the Syr- clashes between rival anti-regime groups east of Syria’s capital Damas- in a week the Iraqi capital has been area, also in northern Baghdad, kill- In some of the deadliest attacks ian opposition back to peace talks cus, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. hit by a deadly spate of bombings. ing at least 19. by women in Iraq, two mentally until there is a “credible” ceasefire. The powerful Jaish Al Islam, or Army of Islam, has been locked in The attacks bring the toll for vio- Interior ministry spokesman handicapped women wearing sui- Kerry said the International Syr- clashes with rival factions led by Al Qaeda’s Syrian affiliate in the oppo- lence in and near Baghdad to more Saad Maan said it was carried out cide vests killed nearly 100 people at ian Support Group (ISSG) had agreed sition stronghold of Eastern Ghouta. than 145 people killed in just seven by a female suicide bomber, while Baghdad pet markets in early 2008. there would be “consequences” for Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman said nearly three weeks of days. The unrest highlights the con- a police colonel said a roadside Two women also detonated parties breaching the ceasefire and fighting had killed more than 500 fighters and a dozen civilians. tinued existence of significant flaws bombing was followed by the sui- explosives at one of the country’s vowed to maintain pressure on Assad. One of the slain civilians has been identified as the only specialist in Baghdad security procedures that cide attack. Shia sites the following year, killing But Lavrov restated the Russian gynaecologist still practising in Eastern Ghouta. “This is absolutely a power have gone largely unaddressed even But IS issued a statement claiming more than 60 people, while a 2010 position that Assad’s army is the struggle,” Abdel Rahman said. as US-led forces train Iraqi forces for the attack and saying it was carried attack on Shia pilgrims by a female best placed local faction to fight the the fight against the Islamic State (IS) out by a man, whom it identified as bomber left over 40 dead.

Sisi offers mediating role France urges caution over arms supplies to Libya in Israel-Palestinian talks

AFP maintained. France would like the man- warplanes and helicopters to fight mili- by Libya’s UN-backed unity government. Agencies date of (EU Operation Sophia against people tants as it hailed international support for IS fighters had overrun the Abu Grain smuggling) to be broadened to cover this.” granting it an exemption to a longstanding checkpoint, town and several nearby vil- The United States, Italy and Libya’s embargo on weapons sales. lages after carrying out coordinated suicide PARIS: France yesterday urged caution friends and neighbours agreed at a meeting The agreement comes as rival Libyan bomb attacks on May 5. CAIRO: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi prom- over supplying arms to Libya’s fledgling in Vienna on Monday to arm the war-torn forces prepare separate offensives against Abu Grain is about 140km west of IS’s ised Israel yesterday warmer ties if it accepts efforts unity government, saying an EU naval oper- country’s fledgling unity government to IS, which has taken advantage of the chaos Libyan stronghold of Sirte, on the main road to resume peace talks with the Palestinians, urging ation should ensure that weapons do not fight the Islamic State threat. since the 2011 revolution to establish a new leading south from port city of Misurata. Israeli leaders not to waste an opportunity to bring fall into the wrong hands. France and Britain are preparing a draft stronghold across the Mediterranean from The military have yet to take full con- security and hope to a troubled region. “As was decided... in Vienna, it is essen- resolution at the United Nations to allow Europe. trol of the area, however. In an impromptu speech at an infrastructure tial to help the national unity government EU ships in the Mediterranean to intercept Meanehile, Libyan military forces said “There are skirmishes from time to time conference in the southern city of Assiut, Sisi said to control and ensure the security of Lib- vessels suspected of carrying weapons to yesterday they had recaptured one of the against the militants,” said Gasri. “We will his country was willing to mediate a reconcilia- yan territory,” the French foreign ministry Libya, diplomats said on Monday. main checkpoints south of the city of Misu- keep making progress to clean Abu Grain tion between rival Palestinian factions in an effort said in an online press briefing. The UN arms embargo was imposed rata from IS, reversing some of the gains town of those militants”. to pave the way toward a lasting peace accord with But it stressed that only the UN-backed on the north African country in 2011, dur- the militant group made earlier this month. The unity government arrived in Tripoli the Israelis. government of Prime Minister Fayez Al Sar- ing the uprising against Muammar Gaddafi. Three members of the armed forces in late March. Western states hope it will “If we are able to solve the issue of our Palestinian raj “can legitimately request exemptions The UN resolution would also call for were killed and 10 wounded in a mine replace two rival administrations that have brothers it will achieve warmer peace ... I ask that the to the arms embargo,” the foreign minis- the naval force codenamed Operation explosion as they took control of the check- competed for power in Libya since 2014, Israeli leadership allow this speech to be broadcast in try said. Sophia to train the Libyan coastguard. point at Abu Grain, said Mohamed Al Gasri, and unite the armed brigades that sup- Israeli one or two times as this is a genuine opportu- “The arms embargo must be Libya’s unity government called for a spokesman for an operation room set up ported them to take on IS. nity,” Sisi said. “I say to our Palestinian brothers, you must unite the different factions in order to achieve reconciliation and quickly. We as Egypt are prepared to take on this role. It is a real opportunity to find a long-awaited solution.” French President Francois Hollande said on Tues- day an international conference due in late May in Paris to relaunch peace talks between Palestinians and Israelis had been postponed but would take place this summer. Jordanian preacher freed in incitement case

AMMAN: Jordan yesterday freed an Islamist preacher imprisoned for nearly a year for inciting hatred against the regime on social media, his lawyer said, follow- ing criticism from rights campaigners. Iyad Qunaibi, a 40-year-old Kuwaiti-born Jorda- nian, was arrested in mid-June for posting an audio message entitled “Jordan on the brink of the abyss” on his Facebook page. In it he criticised Jordanian rela- tions with Israel — the two neighbours are bound by a peace treaty — and the “Westernisation” of Jordanian society. Qunaibi, who holds a doctorate in pharma- cology from the University of Houston in the United States, was sentenced in December to two years in prison, which was increased to three years on appeal. Australian deminer dead in Iraq area retaken from IS

KIRKUK: An explosion yesterday killed an Australian demining expert working to clear an area of northern Iraq that Kurdish forces recaptured from the Islamic State group, his employer said. The accident occurred in the village of Tal Rabaa, near Daquq, about 200km north of Baghdad, said a senior officer with the Kurdish peshmerga forces in control of the area. “This morning, at around 10:00 am local time (0700 GMT), an uncontrolled explo- sion has tragically killed the Australian supervisor of a team of 30 national deminers during ongoing oper- ations,” said his employer, the Swiss Foundation for Mine Action (FSD). ASIA / PHILIPPINES WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 09

Vendors cashing VIPs fly south to Duterte’s new seat of power in on Duterte election win “I have to move forward. I cannot campaigning which focused on threats live in darkness. With my experience to kill thousands of criminals. Duterte’s aides have in local government and tourism, I Duterte was mostly known for Reuters said the president- can help the incoming administra- ruthless law-and-order policies in tion,” he said. Davao, a city of less than two million elect is looking to fill Ejercito said he waited nine hours people that he had ruled for most of DAVAO, PHILIPPINES: Be it top posts with people at a private function centre which the past two decades. Rights group “DU30” car plates or “The Pun- the president-elect had turned into accuse him of running vigilante death isher” T-shirts, Filipinos have been who have proved their his reception venue. Ejercito finally squads in Davao that killed more than snapping up any merchandise they loyalty to him in the secured a 40-minute meeting that 1,000 suspected criminals, charges he can featuring President-elect Rod- past and whom he can began just after midnight yesterday, has variously accepted and denied. rigo Duterte. but emerged without a firm commit- Duterte’s political party, PDP- Happy vendors along one high- trust. ment. Others were more lucky. Laban, has just one senator in the way in Davao, where Duterte is a “I’m at a loss for words,” veteran current Congress, which will remain hero after his tough measures as politician Manny Pinol said yesterday in office until the new administration mayor turned around a town once after Duterte named him agriculture takes power on June 30. fraught with drugs and gangs, AFP secretary in the new administration. PDP-Laban does not even have a have been refilling their stalls Pinol, however, is a longtime friend lawmaker in the House of Representa- with stickers, mugs and all things A supporter of president-elect Rodrigo “Digong” Duterte wears a “Duterte of Duterte and also hails from the tives. But with victory comes powerful Duterte. southern Philippines. new allies. Manny Villar, the head of “To Mr Duterte: ‘Thank you Shirt” while taking a selfie photograph with other supporters at a life- DAVAO, PHILIPPINES: Business Duterte’s aides have said the the country’s oldest political party very, very much. Because of you sized cutout of Duterte inside a restaurant in Davao city yesterday. tycoons, turncoat politicians, celeb- president-elect is looking to fill top Nacionalista, on Monday appeared at our business is booming and it has rities and rebel leaders are descending posts with people who have proved a media event alongside Duterte to sign been a big help to our family’,” said on the long-neglected far south of the to the nation’s capital 1,000 kilome- surveys who finished a distant fourth. their loyalty to him in the past and an alliance with PDP-Laban. Lovella Quino, a shop vendor who Philippines, hoping to gain favour with tres (600 miles) away, forcing VIPs to “My loyalty to my party ends whom he can trust. Others seen in Davao since the was selling Duterte mugs, stickers the nation’s shock new powerbroker. head to Davao for the time-honoured where my loyalty to my country Until his stunning surge in the pre- election include billionaire Lucio Tan, and plates. Car license plates bear- The remote and dusty city of Filipino political ritual of jumping on begins,” said Ejercito, a former gov- election polls, Duterte was regarded the nation’s fourth richest man and a ing Duterte’s online abbreviation, Davao has suddenly become the the bandwagon of the new president. ernor of Laguna province near Manila. as a hell-raising outsider without the one-time crony of late dictator Ferdi- “DU30”, priced at 150 pesos ($3.25), country’s new seat of power after Movie star-turned-politician ER Speaking to AFP in the lobby of national political network required to nand Marcos. Ghadzali Jaafar, a senior have been the most in demand hometown hero Rodrigo Duterte won Ejercito was among the suitors, shifting one of Davao’s top hotels that has sud- win the presidency. leader of the Moro Islamic Liberation item since the firebrand mayor, last week’s presidential election in a effortlessly from his campaign support denly become fully booked, Ejercito Outgoing President Benigno Front that has waged a decades-long nicknamed “the punisher” for his landslide. for Jejomar Binay—an early front- said he hoped to be appointed to head Aquino branded him a dictator, while separatist rebellion, waited in line at measures to tackle crime, won the The mayor has refused to travel runner in pre-election presidential a national tourism agency. other critics raged at his incendiary the reception centre on Monday. presidency last week.

Fewer military service conscripts in S Korea

AFP the 1950-53 Korean con- flict ended with a ceasefire rather than a peace treaty, leaving the two Koreas SEOUL: South Korea’s technically at war. defence ministry said yes- “The mandatory mil- terday it was pushing to itary service is being scrap nearly all existing maintained in consid- exemptions to mandatory eration of our security military service, citing a situation that arises shortfall in the number of from the division of the conscripts. two Koreas,” a ministry Some 28,000 able- spokesperson said bodied men are exempted The military relies every year, either because heavily on conscription of the nature of their aca- and military service often demic studies, or because involves postings to front- they opt to serve their time line positions on the border in the police force or fire with North Korea. service instead. For many, the two-year “Considering the coun- duty is an unwanted and try’s population forecast, deeply resented intrusion we are expecting a short- that interferes with stud- fall in military personnel of ies or nascent careers around 20,000 to 30,000 and serves no discerni- by 2023,” a ministry offi- ble purpose, especially in cial said. The plan, which a rapidly-ageing society is still being negotiated where the size of the work- with other concerned force is dwindling. ministries, would see the Those given a pass exemptions phased out include holders of mas- over three years, begin- ters degrees in engineering ning in 2020. who can opt instead for More than 60 years three years at a research after the end of the Korean institute. War, every South Korean The vast major- man between the age of 18 ity, however unwillingly, and 35 is required to per- buckle down, knowing that form two years military refusal to serve means an service. automatic prison term and The main rationale a criminal record that pre- is the continued threat cludes any future job with from nuclear-armed the government or a major North Korea, given that corporation.

Australia delays ‘backpacker tax’ after backlash

AFP like other workers, they do not start paying tax until their annual income SYDNEY: Working holi- exceeds Aus$18,200. daymakers from overseas Farmers and tourism were given a reprieve yes- operators fear backpack- terday from being hit with ers will shun Australia as a a so-called “backpacker travel destination if the tax tax” in Australia after a comes into force in favour campaign by farmers and of places such as New Zea- the tourism industry. The land and Canada. Nearly government, which is in 50,000 people signed an election mode with polls online petition in protest. on July 2, had planned to Assistant Treasurer introduce the levy on for- Kelly O’Dwyer said the tax eign travellers who are would be suspended for six often young and work in months pending a ministe- agriculture and hospi- rial review. tality as a vital source of “The government has seasonal labour. listened to issues raised by It would have meant stakeholders about work- that from July 1 they paid force challenges faced by 32.5 cents for every dol- industries in regional and lar they earned, boosting rural areas,” she said. Some government coffers by an 600,000 backpackers visit estimated Aus$540 million Australia every year and (US$396 million) over the farmers, in particular, rely next three years. Currently, on them at harvest time. 10 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 VIEWS

ESTABLISHED IN 1996

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

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DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR HUSSAIN AHMAD [email protected]

EDITORIAL Coming round The method in the madness of

t is hearty to see Chinese media admitting the egregiousness of the Cultural Revolution. Fifty years after Mao Zedong’s historic enterprise led to killings, chaos and welcoming a ‘swarm’ of refugees Ipersecution, Chinese newspapers yesterday came out with editorials which said the revolution didn’t contribute positively to Chinese society. Launched in 1966, the revolution was aimed at destroying symbols of capitalism to usher in the perfect Communist order in keeping with Mao Zedong’s principles purportedly based on Marxism. The Red Guards fanned out all over the country, killing anyone who wouldn’t fall in line. The marauding Guards were but one feature of the revolution that led to thousands being jailed. Mao had decided to rid China of all forms of capitalism and turn it into a near-utopia Communist nation. The Revolution that included purges of Mao’s opponents was to last for a decade and lead to unprecedented suffering for hundreds of thousands of people. By Mughal, Abdul-Ghaffar The misled enforcement of radical egalitarianism was to blow up in the Chinese face of a China that was not the land it is today. newspapers’ ollowing the fall of the The Chinese Communist Party’s denouncement last Muslim stronghold repudiation of the Cultural Revolution of Granada in Muslim of the Cultural in 1981 set the stage for what would be Spain at the hands of Isa- Fbella I of Castile and Ferdinand Revolution is a protracted wait for society to respond like a whiff of to the sufferings of people. More than a II of Aragon, the victors issued lands.The Ottoman Empire became economic demand impulses, as on the impact of Syrian refugees on million Chinese were killed during the what is known as the Alhambra a safe haven for Iberian Jews fleeing exogenous increase in expendi- the German economy. They found Decree. The decree,issued on 31 persecution, and in its heyday, the ture leads to a chain of spending that in the most favorable scenario, fresh air. Revolution decade. March 1492, ordered the expul- city of Thessaloniki had a Jewish and respending with the eventual the positive effect of integrating Some weeks ago, western media sion of practicing Jews from former majority. The Jews of Al-Andalus increase in GDP being a multiple refugees in the labor market can was up in arms protesting Chinese Andalusia by 31 July of that year. (Iberia) contributed much to the of the initial dose of exogenous come about after just four or five President Xi Jinping’s visit to media Sultan Bayezid II (1481–1512) of the rising economic power of the Otto- expenditure. This is the celebrated years. offices. On Monday — the anniversary of the Revolution — the Ottoman Empire, learning about man Empire by introducing new Keynesian Multiplier Effect. Thus, ”Refugee influx is a major Chinese media was relatively mute, which triggered reports the expulsion decree, dispatched ideas, methods and craftsmanship, over the intermediate and long run, opportunity for Germany,” the in western media outlets. However, the denouncement of the the Ottoman Navy under the com- with the presence of luminaries, the economic benefits of integrat- authors observe,“[E]ven if the labor mand of Kemal Reis to bring the such as, the Talmudist and scien- ing refugees into the labor market market integration turns out to be event yesterday led to an acknowledgement that the Chinese Jews safely to Ottoman domin- tist Mordecai Comtino; astronomer more than offset the short term eco- sluggish, the refugees will still have media had not cringed. The day was also marked with some ions. Sultan Bayezid II sent out and poet Solomon ben Elijah Sharbi nomic costs borne in the immediate a positive impact on the German symbolism. The resistance to the visit of a senior Chinese party proclamations throughout the ha-Zahab; Shabbethai ben Malk- aftermath of admission. economy after five to ten years. official to Hong Kong, which has been festering with mainland Ottoman Empire(spanning three iel Cohen, and the liturgical poet The economic case for admit- Most importantly, even in terms China’s authority over its affairs, made international headlines. continents and including South Menahem Tamar. ting large number of refugees of per capita income of non-ref- The pro-democracy protests of 2014 left a bad taste in the mouth Eastern Europe, the Middle East, This example of the positive becomes stronger when,prior ugees, the benefits will exceed the and North Africa)that the refugees impact of refugees on host societies to admitting refugees, the host costs in the long-term, thus high- for Beijing, which has been ruling the southern territory under were to be welcomed. is not unique. There is near con- countries face a demographic lighting the benefits to the entire the principle “one country, two systems.” Indeed, he threatened with sensus in the economic literature deficit,with the proportion of work- economy.” For China, which has been called a civilisational state, it death all those who treated the on the positive impact of refugees. ing age population in the economy Despite the misperceived neg- is very hard to break away from the past. In spite of official Jews harshly or refused them Both demand and supply forces shrinking. Most advanced coun- ative economic impact of refugees denouncement of the Cultural Revolution, Mao remains a admission into the empire. Ridi- contribute to the favorable eco- tries, including Germany, have been on the receiving countries, which revered finger and his portrait adorns the Tiananmen Gate. culing Ferdinand and Isabella for nomic impact of refugee integration suffering from a huge demographic might be partially true in the short The Chinese media’s response to the Cultural Revolution on their short-sightedness, the Sultan into the labor market. First, on the deficit with native fertility rate fall- run, it is possible to view this chal- remarked to his courtiers, ‘You ven- supply side,refugees who find work ing below replacement level. lenge as an opportunity to boost its 50th anniversary deserves adulation and shows newspapers ture to call Ferdinand a wise ruler,’ stimulate the economy by contrib- Refugees who manage to brave the economy, with the cultural in the most populous country are transcending barriers. It is ‘he who has impoverished his own uting to production.Second, on the the perils of drownin g or the risk and demographic enrichment as a hoped that a balanced approach in the future will go a long way country and enriched mine!’ Some demand side, the refugee-related of starvation and subhuman living bonus. Costs associated with short- in increasing media credibility in China. 100,000 Jews are estimated to have expenditures by the government conditions for months and years term humanitarian cash and food been given refuge in the Ottoman are accompanied by positive are the kind of young, energetic, assistance are necessary to ease and motivated peo- the integration of refugees into ple that can inject society, and should be seen as an badly needed fresh investment in the future. blood into the labor For Bayezid’s hospitality to market of these Jews, or Angela Merkel’s generos- Quote of the day countries. Refu- ity in admitting a million refugees, gees want to live in while we don’t know whether I prefer that people have dignity, they want humanitarianism or economic an image of a president to work! calculus has the better claim, we It is against the do know that the economic argu- who made reforms rather backdrop of the ment is quite powerful in terms than a president who did looming demo- of both logic and empirical evi- nothing. graphic drought dence. Thus, there is a method in that the Ger- the madness of German generos- man hospitality ity towards refugees! towards refugees The writer joined Qatar Univer- should make sense. sity as a Fulbright scholar and is The German Insti- currently a Research Assistant Pro- Francois Hollande tute for Economic fessor in the Center for Humanities French President Research (DIW) and Social Sciences (CHSS) at Qatar conducted a study University.

EDITORIAL TEL: 44557741 / 44557743 FAX: 44557746 / 44557758 P. O. BOX: 3488, DOHA, QATAR E-MAIL: [email protected] ADVERTISING TEL: 44557837 / 780 FAX: 44557870 CLASSIFIED: 44557857 E-MAIL: [email protected] SUBSCRIPTION / HOME DELIVERY TEL: 44557809 /839 FAX: 44557819 E-MAIL: [email protected] OPINION WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 11 How Brazil’s Left destroyed itself

By Antônio Sampaio The Washington Post

fter days of chaos in the upper ranks of Brazilian politics, the Senate in Brasilia has voted for the impeachment of President ADilma Rousseff. This moment marks the final fall from grace not only of the presi- dent but also of her ruling Workers’ Party, which has run the country for 13 years. Not so long ago, many in Brazil saw the Left as the best hope for the country’s salvation. And, though the Workers’ Party may be better known in the wider world for its audacious (and successful) antipoverty programmes, no less of a draw for Bra- zilians was its promise to institute clean government and do away with graft. Now, however, the biggest corruption Dejected supporters of President Dilma Rousseff react to news that her impeachment would move forward in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. scandal in national history is revealing the extent to which Rousseff and her allies actively contributed to the rot of Brazil’s it survived due to its deep base of support anti-corruption investigation in Brazil’s are right to point out that Rousseff her- during her tenure as chairwoman of its democratic institutions. It has taken the among the working class and Lula’s per- history. It may well turn out to be one of the self is one of the few high-profile political board. Her reputation for improving the impeachment of the country’s first female sonal popularity. largest and most ambitious in the world. figures who has not been accused of abus- lot of the poor also weakened as the econ- president - who once stood as a champion Rousseff’s assumption of the presidency Federal Police investigators estimate that ing her office for personal enrichment. omy shrank by 3.8 percent last year. The of the fight for clean government - to lay occurred, therefore, just as the Brazilian $12 billion was siphoned into the accounts (Her impeachment is related to alleged poor were hit hardest by rising inflation, bare this dispiriting reality. Left was starting to lose its aura of inno- of politicians and parties. (This compares manipulation of public accounts to dis- which reached 10 percent in the same At the very moment Rousseff assumed cence. In 2013, midway into her first term, to $28 million of money spent on bribes in guise a deficit). But as key figures around period, far surpassing the official targets. office in 2011, the country was confronting the mensalão scandal resulted in jail terms the mensalão scandal.) Rousseff were detained or questioned, In December, a few months before the start an earlier scandal involving corruption at for some of the country’s most powerful So what went wrong with the promise her reputation as an ethical champion of Rousseff’s impeachment process, her the highest levels. That year, several high- men, including Lula’s ex-chief of staff and of “ethics in politics”? Even at the heights fell apart. Every revelation of bribery in approval rate had fallen to a historic low ranking politicians from the office of her a former Workers’ Party leader. Though of their influence and popularity - Lula Petrobras reduced the trust she had earned of 9 percent. A record 3.5 million people patron and predecessor, Luiz Inácio Lula Rousseff herself wasn’t accused of any had a record 87 percent approval rating - especially since she was the head of the took to the streets on March 13 to demand da Silva, faced trial for their role in cre- misdeeds, her reputation was tainted by during his final months - neither Work- board for seven years during the Lula pres- her impeachment and to show support for ating an extensive legislative vote-buying association. She, too, after all, was a Lula ers’ Party president managed to overhaul idency, when the scheme was at its peak. the Petrobras investigation. system (known as the mensalão). During protégée. Brazil’s dysfunctional political structure, The allegations of fiscal mismanagement Brazil’s loss of innocence was also Rous- her first twelve months in office, Rousseff Just as she ended her first term in office, leaving it vulnerable to corruption. Perhaps have combined with the clear evidence seff’s downfall. Distrust contaminated her acted decisively, firing six ministers who another scandal was emerging - this one far the biggest problem they failed to address of corruption within her party to devas- administration, making governing a prac- had been implicated in various corrup- larger, and potentially more devastating, was the fragmented party system, which tating effect. tical impossibility - during her last days in tion investigations. Her approach became than the mensalão. It centred on the state tends to lead to the creation of complex To be sure, the crisis of confidence is power, she had trouble getting governors known as the “ethical clean sweep,” and oil company, Petrobras, where Rousseff ruling coalitions. And this, in turn, gives affecting all of Brazil’s factions. Many oppo- and mayors to answer her phone calls. it resonated with the public. was chairwoman of the board from 2003 to coalition leaders incentives to create intri- sition politicians have been booed during More broadly, the credibility of both the In so doing, Rousseff was merely pick- 2010. The company had been a key driver cate patronage arrangements to keep their street protests against the government. The legislative and executive branches has ing up on a theme that had already been of Brazil’s rise over the previous decade, many allies in line. (This, indeed, was the man who led the impeachment campaign been damaged as Brazilians realized the central to her party’s message a few years and the scandal effectively brought Bra- reason for the mensalão scheme.) against Rousseff, extent to which corruption had infiltrated earlier. While in the opposition during the zil’s economy, which had already started to To the great dismay of Workers’ Party Congressman Eduardo Cunha, was these institutions. 1990s, the Workers’ Party had gone to great struggle, to its knees. Petrobras and large supporters, who originally regarded it as recently suspended from his post by the The Workers’ Party lost, maybe forever, lengths to stress its anti-corruption creden- construction companies drastically cut an anti-systemic party that was inherently Supreme Court. But the details about the its narrative of bringing ethics to the coun- tials. The demand for “ethics in politics” investment, with a nationwide impact, as “clean,” the Lula and Rousseff administra- corruption directly involving the Workers’ try’s politics. As a result, Brazil’s parties figured prominently in the party’s talking estimated by a Brazilian consulting com- tions ended up entwining themselves even Party - such as revelations about mecha- and other political institutions are facing points, usually right after its trademark pany, of $40 billion. more deeply in opaque coalition-building nisms that fed misappropriated Petrobras their biggest crisis since the fall of the mil- anti-poverty policies. Brazilians had been accustomed to than their predecessors. Key party figures funds straight into party accounts - have itary regime in 1985. For now, the people’s The mensalão scandal, which first viewing corruption as the province of excelled at playing the game, once even surprised even the most cynical observ- trust has been transferred to other institu- emerged in 2006, during Lula’s first term wayward individuals. Now, however, the creating a coalition that brought together ers of Brazilian politics. tions. The Federal Police, the judges, and as president, thus represented a profound evidence pointed instead to an elaborate 10 parties in 37 ministries - both unprec- Rousseff’s downfall is thus inseparable the prosecutors pursuing the Petrobras shock for Brazilian voters, who were hor- criminal enterprise dedicated to turning edented numbers. In 2012, the Supreme from the broader credibility crisis con- scandal have become heroes. How they rified to see some of his closest associates Brazil’s economic power into an enrich- Court described the mensalão as the “strat- vulsing Brazil’s political system. She has conduct their work, and whether they’ll be revealed as profoundly corrupt. Historian ment mechanism for the political elite. egy of the Workers’ Party for keeping itself lost the trust of most Brazilians, many of able to bring the investigation to a satisfac- Lincoln Secco later described the resulting Those involved in uncovering the Petro- in power.” whom believe that she must at least have tory conclusion, will determine the future mess as the party’s “biggest crisis” - one bras affair claim that it is the largest Today, supporters of the government been aware of the corruption in Petrobras of Brazil’s gravely weakened democracy. Afghans get a raw deal from Washington

The Washington Post a response to information he received States, whether pushing a broom or requires a detailed check to verify are working for the United States for that some Afghans were exploiting translating under fire, potentially face that applicants face ongoing danger. three years or more before they can the programme, taking menial jobs the danger of retribution from extrem- Last year, Congress lengthened the acquire a visa and travel. Thornberry he House and Senate Amed Serv- just to get a visa. ists - especially when they go home at minimum service to two years. If the said, “If they can prove they are in dan- ices committees have let down We think the response is misplaced. night. Thornberry’s concern is already average processing time of 270 busi- ger, I am for them.” We urge him - and Congress TAfghans who braved danger and Afghans who work with the United dealt with in the visa process, which ness days is counted, that means most the House - to scrap the new limita- approved a special strife to work with the United States tions and leave the door open for every through a decade and a half of war. qualified applicant who faces dan- programmeme In 2009, Congress approved a spe- ger because of association with the that provided cial programmeme that provided visas United States. visas for Afghan for Afghan translators and others who The programme also needs more risked their lives shoulder-to-shoulder visas. The State Department reported translators and with US forces. Though 8,528 appli- this year a backlog of approximately others who risked cants have received visas, thousands 10,300 principal applicants at some step are still waiting. The annual defence in the process,with only about 4,000 their lives shoulder- bills just sent to the floor of each cham- visas remaining to be distributed. If to-shoulder with ber could leave many of them behind. Congress does not provide more, about US forces. Though The legislation should be amended to 6,000 applicants will be left out in the keep faith with those who kept faith cold, according to the International Ref- 8,528 applicants with the United States. ugee Assistance Project. The House bill have received visas, The House legislation contains a extends the programme through 2017 thousands are still provision that would limit eligibility for but includes no new visas, while the new applicants after May 31 to those Senate bill is silent on the programme waiting. The annual who had served off-base as military altogether. Both chambers need to act defence bills just translators or with the US military and allocate new visas. in a “sensitive and trusted” role. This The special Afghan visa pro- sent to the floor of would exclude Afghans working on gramme has been a valuable tool for each chamber could bases such as firefighters, maintenance recruiting people to serve in a war zone. leave many of them workers and clerical assistants. When Cutting off thousands of applicants will we asked Armed Services Committee not only betray their loyalty but also behind. Chairman Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, send the wrong signal, far and wide, about the limitations, he said they were Afghan men drink tea with US marines and an Afghan translator. about working for the United States.

All thoughts and views expressed in these columns are those of the writers, not of the newspaper. All correspondence regarding Views and Opinion pages should be mailed to the Editor-in-Chief. 12 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 ASIA / AFRICA

Teen arrested Top China official to ‘listen’ to HK demands over Sydney ‘terror plot’ the semi-autonomous system under which Hong Kong is governed since The visit by Zhang being handed back to China by Brit- AFP Dejiang, the first ain in 1997. He also said he would listen by a senior Chinese to “any suggestions and requests figure since the 2014 regarding the nation and Hong Kong’s SYDNEY: An 18-year-old man development”. Zhang declared he had was arrested in Sydney yesterday Occupy democracy brought a “caring heart” as well as over an alleged “imminent” terror protests, was “hearty greetings and good wishes” plot, as police raided properties in officially to attend an from China’s President Xi Jinping. Melbourne in a separate counter- He will meet with four veteran terrorism operation, officials said. economic summit. pro-democracy lawmakers today Australian Federal Police claimed evening, a rare move observers say the teenager was scouting possi- is designed to defuse frustrations over ble sites in Sydney to undertake an stalled political reform. attack while at the same time try- Agencies Seven members of a pro-democ- ing to acquire a firearm. racy political party were arrested In February he had been earlier in the day after putting up pro- stopped at Sydney airport as test banners, with three still detained, he attempted to leave for Syria, HONG KONG: A top ranked Chinese and a leading pro-democracy activ- despite his passport being can- official began a rare visit to Hong Kong ist was also wrestled to the ground by celled, to allegedly fight overseas yesterday vowing to listen to residents’ police outside Zhang’s hotel. with jihadist groups. political concerns, seeking to address Following the unsuccessful “Since that time, he has been increasingly strident calls in the city for Occupy protests of 2014, a handful of under the surveillance of the rele- greater autonomy or even independ- activists have been calling for an out- vant authorities who have decided ence from the mainland. right breakaway from China, a move this morning to act to prevent an The visit by Zhang Dejiang, the some say would imperil Hong Kong’s imminent terrorist event,” Attor- first by a senior Chinese figure since economic and political future. ney-General George Brandis told the 2014 Occupy democracy protests, “These young people have no reporters, without giving precise was officially to attend an economic idea that they could be putting Hong details of potential targets. summit. However, his first comments Kong on a potentially dangerous col- The teen, from Sydney, was addressed the hot button political lision course with the motherland and expected to be charged with act- Zhang Dejiang, who chairs China’s communist-controlled legislature, talking to children who welcomed him issue of Hong Kong’s relationship with bringing an unmitigated disaster,” ing in preparation for, or planning, China, a topic that has sparked fierce wrote former top Hong Kong security upon arrival at Hong Kong’s international airport yesterday. a terrorist act, which has a maxi- debate in the Asian financial hub. In official Regina Ip in a recent editorial mum penalty of life in prison. a short speech on the tarmac Zhang, in the state-run China Daily. A banner demanding “true uni- be a Chinese city or do they want to an independence line in upcoming He will also likely be charged a member of the politburo standing Tensions in the city are high, versal suffrage” was hung on a be an independent country? There are campaigns. with “preparing for an act of for- committee, pledged to listen to a vari- with thousands police mobilised for different mountaintop yesterday only two choices,” said Chan, whose “The problem with young peo- eign incursion”. “This is the ninth ety of political views. Zhang’s visit. Local media reported morning. “(We) are facing a very great party is expected to contest legisla- ple is that they are not 100 percent occasion since the national terror- “(I will listen to) people from pavement bricks were being glued threat from China: Our culture, our tive elections in September. pre-occupied with economic consid- ism alert level was raised (to high) all walks of life about any sugges- down to quell the prospect of violent language, our people...we are dying!” Joshua Wong, another promi- erations,” said Michael Tien, a Hong in September 2014 that police have tions and demands regarding the protests while police were camping Chan Ho-tin, the head of the newly- nent young activist who launched a Kong delegate to China’s parliament, successfully intervened to prevent implementation of ‘one country two atop a mountain where a pro-democ- formed National party, told Reuters. new political party called Demosisto the National People’s Congress, which an imminent terrorism event on systems’,” said Zhang, referring to racy banner was hung two years ago. “Do (Hong Kong people) want to this year, wouldn’t rule out taking Zhang heads. Australian soil,” Brandis added. Kenya opens probe after police break up protest South Korean author

AFP the commission, threw stones at were prevented from reaching the Independent Police Oversight Author- wins Man Booker prize police. offices of the Independent Electoral ity to investigate. “I condemn the lawlessness vis- and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) “The brutal beatings by police ited on the public by rioters yesterday by police wearing body armour and yesterday amount to arbitrary and NAIROBI: Kenya’s police chief and an internal inquiry is underway carrying shields. There have been abusive use of force, which is illegal AFP ordered an internal investigation to determine whether any police several such protests in recent weeks. under Kenyan, regional and interna- yesterday a day after officers were officer broke any law while quelling “The officers who have violated tional law,” said Muthoni Wanyeki, seen viciously beating an unrespon- the riots,” Inspector General of Police the rights of citizens by their brutality Amnesty’s East Africa regional LONDON: South Korean author sive fallen protester as they broke up Joseph Boinnet told reporters. must face both disciplinary process director. Han Kang (pictured) won the Man demonstrations. Police fired tear gas A video of the incident shows a and criminal prosecution,” said Isaac Raila Odinga, a former prime Booker International Prize on Mon- and beat opposition demonstrators man in a green sweatshirt running Okero, president of the Law Society of minister who lost his bid for the pres- day, sharing the £50,000 ($72,000) with truncheons on Monday to stop from police before falling to the Kenya, condemning the “bludgeon- idency in 2013, accuses the election award with her translator—who had them storming the offices of the elec- ground. Three officers then take turns ing of an apparently unconscious and commission of bias towards President only taught herself Korean three toral commission in Nairobi. striking him with batons and kicking unresponsive, unarmed man”. Uhuru Kenyatta and has demanded years before. Some of the demonstrators, who his motionless body as it lies slumped Amnesty International denounced new commissioners to be named Han Kang, 45, an author and cre- were demanding the dissolution of on the curb. Hundreds of protesters the attack and called on Kenya’s ahead of elections due in August 2017. ative writing teacher who is already successful in South Korea, is likely to enjoy a spike in international sales following the win for “The ‘I am human’ Vegetarian”. Marooned house “I’m so honoured” she said. “The pleads Uighur work features a protagonist who wants to become a plant, and to “Across the three parts, we are leave the human race to save herself pressed up against a society’s most prime suspect in from the dark side human nature. inflexible structures—expectations “Through this extreme narrative of behaviour, the workings of insti- Bangkok bombing I felt I could question... the difficult tutions—and we watch them fail question of being human.” one by one,” Daniel Hahn wrote in She was the first South Korean a review. AFP to win the prize. For the first time this year, the Described as “lyrical and lac- award went jointly to the translator, erating” by chairman of the judges Deborah Smith, 28, who only started Boyd Tonkin, the tale traces the story learning Korean three years before BANGKOK: A Chinese Uighur of an ordinary woman’s rejection she embarked on the translation. accused of planting last year’s of convention from three different “This was the first book that I deadly Bangkok bomb yesterday perspectives. ever translated, and the best possible claimed he was being mistreated It was picked unanimously by thing that can happen to a translator in custody, shouting “I am human, the panel of five judges, beating six has just happened to me,” an emo- I am human” as he struggled with other novels including “The Story of tional Smith said. guards on his way to a hearing. the Lost Child” by Italian sensation “When I was 22 I decided to Bilal Mohammed, also known Elena Ferrante and “A Strangeness in teach myself Korean... I felt that I as Adem Karadag, and co-defend- My Mind” by Turkey’s Orhan Pamuk. was limited by only being able to ant Yusufu Mieraili are charged “This is a book of tenderness and speak English. I’d always read a lot with key roles in the August 2015 terror,” Boyd told guests at the award of translations, and you get the sense bombing of the Erawan shrine in ceremony dinner at the Victoria and of this whole world being out there, downtown Bangkok that killed Albert Museum in London. very different perspectives, differ- 20 people—mainly ethnic Chi- Sri Lankan residents look out from their home inundated by flood waters in Pugoda, about 35km Han Kang’s first book to appear ent stories,” she said. nese tourists. from Colombo, yesterday. Heavy rains claimed three more lives in Sri Lanka, raising weather-related in English, “The Vegetarian” was “It felt as thought I looked up Mohammed, 31, a Chinese deaths to 11. described by newspaper The Guard- almost every other word in the citizen from the Uighur ethnic ian as a shock to the system. dictionary. minority, is accused of being the man seen in CCTV footage wear- ing a yellow T-shirt and placing a backpack at the Erawan shrine moments before the explosion. Brawl erupts in S Africa parliament as oppn party ejected Prosecutors say he was caught a few days later in a Bangkok flat surrounded by explosives. Mieraili, 26 and also a Chinese AFP plain-clothed guards, had refused to yelled that it was the president who or be axed as president by the rul- The EFF, which was also ejected Uighur, is accused of delivering the let Zuma speak and furiously shouted should be thrown out. ing African National Congress (ANC). from parliament two weeks ago in backpack bomb. The pair deny the down the Speaker, Baleka Mbete. “He broke his oath of office. Zuma He has been urged to step down similar scenes, has vowed that it will bombing charges, although Mier- CAPE TOWN: A brutal fistfight broke As Zuma looked on impassively, is the one who must go,” they shouted. by a number of senior ANC veterans not let Zuma speak in the chamber, aili has admitted a charge of illegal out in the South African parliament the radical leftist lawmakers—dressed Outside parliament, Malema told of the anti-apartheid struggle, which saying that it does not recognise him entry to the country. yesterday as security guards ejected in their uniform of red workers’ over- reporters and cheering supporters: brought liberation icon Nelson Man- as president in the wake of two recent Arriving shackled and shaven- opposition lawmakers in an ugly alls—fought back to try to remain in “These bouncers must know that if dela to power in 1994. But he retains court cases. In March, the coun- headed at the Bangkok court fracas that underlined heightened the chamber until they were physi- they give violence, we will respond widespread loyalty in the party, and try’s highest court found that Zuma yesterday, a visibly distressed political tensions over Jacob Zuma’s cally removed through a side door. with violence. We are not scared.” ANC lawmakers have regularly ral- had violated the constitution over Mohammed shouted his com- presidency. About 20 Economic Free- Before the guards moved in, the EFF The disruption was the latest in lied to Zuma’s defence. the spending of millions of dollars of plaints to reporters in his native dom Fighters (EFF) party members, members, led by their firebrand a series of showdowns in parliament In April, they easily defeated an taxpayers’ money on his private rural Uighur and then in English. who were wrestled from their seats by “commander in chief” Julius Malema, as pressure mounts on Zuma to resign opposition move to impeach him. residence at Nkandla. PAKISTAN WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 13

Rally in favour of TUTAP project Islamabad’s Parliamentarians civic body demand pay rise plans to and more perks issue bonds Internews

paid Rs36, 423 per month and after the committee was told that the ISLAMABAD: Pakistani capi- A subcommittee average federal secretary is paid tal’s civic agency plans to issue of the Standing Rs230, 000 per month, participants municipal bonds against its assets Committee of the meeting recommended that to borrow money from local and the basic salary of an MNA and a foreign lenders to meet its devel- on Rules and senator be made equivalent to that opment and non-development Procedures finalised of a federal secretary. expenditures. The subcommittee also recom- The Capital Development recommendations for mended that the monthly perks of a Authority (CDA) has decided to increasing perks and parliamentarian include a Rs50,000 approach the federal government allowance in their constituencies seeking powers to borrow money privileges currently and the same amount for water and by pledging its assets and commer- offered to MNAs. electricity bills. cial properties, said a document. The meeting suggested that The loans will be obtained monthly telephone charges of Afghan people attend a rally in favour of the routing of the TUTAP power line, in Kandahar, yesterday. through the issuance of “munic- between Rs10,000 to Rs20,000 per Thousands of people gathered in favour of the proposed route of the Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, ipal bonds, Sukuk (Islamic bonds) Internews month and road travelling charges Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan (TUTAP) power line, one day after the Hazara minority people or debentures” by pledging, trans- be increased from Rs10 to Rs20 protested against the planned route. ferring, assigning, leasing out, per kilometre. Participants said mortgaging, or sharing the CDA’s the number of free air tickets be assets and properties, movable or ISLAMABAD: Members of the increased from 20 to 30 per year. immovable, it says. National Assembly (the lower house) Several other suggestions were For this purpose, some amend- in Pakistan have demanded their also made, including the estab- ments to Section 16 of CDA’s salaries be increased in accord- lishment of a system for providing Bill on electoral reforms delayed Ordinance 1960, “borrowing ance with the law, which stipulates medical facilities for parliamentar- powers” will have to be done to that the salary of an Members of the ians and pensions for the MNAs and Internews law, a retired judge of the Supreme appointing CEC and four ECP mem- materialise the plan. National Assembly (MNA) be equal senators who complete a term. Court or a person qualified to be a bers from the judiciary and create The said section says that with to that of a federal secretary. The committee was also told that judge of the apex court or a senior room for appointment of senior gov- the approval of the federal govern- In a meeting yesterday, a an MPA in Balochistan is Rs300,000 government servant or a technocrat ernment officers and technocrats to ment, the CDA could raise funds by subcommittee of the Standing per month while their counterparts ISLAMABAD: The parliamentary could be considered for the post of these positions. issuing bonds against guarantees Committee on Rules and Proce- in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa committee on electoral reforms in CEC and a retired judge of a high It also sets maximum age limit by the government. dures finalised recommendations are paid Rs18,000 each month. Pakistan could not finalise yester- court or a person qualified to be for the CEC at 68 years and for ECP Four amendments have been for increasing perks and privileges “Times have changed and the day the draft bill seeking to amend appointed as judge of a high court or members at 65. Articles 213 and 218 proposed explaining the process currently offered to MNAs. majority of parliamentarians are seven articles of the Constitution a government servant for appoint- of the Constitution outline the proc- of borrowing, payment of inter- Chairing the subcommittee, not feudal and don’t belong to rich relating to the Election Commission ment as ECP member. ess of appointment of CEC and ECP est, interest rate, and guarantees Shagufta Jumani noted that MNAs families,” the chairman of the com- of Pakistan because representatives Talking to reporters after a meet- members, respectively. against loans. and senators were equal in status to mittee said. of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf and ing of the parliamentary panel, The prime minister, in consul- According to the documents, a federal secretary and a lieutenant “Improving the financial status National Party sought more time to Finance Minister Ishaq Dar said tation with the opposition leader, is the proposed amendments call for general in the army. of parliamentarians is important for consult their party leadership. 90 per cent work on constitutional required to forward three names for the incorporation of a new clause, The committee was told that in the proper and more effective execu- The draft bill is seeking to create amendments relating to the laws gov- appointment to every vacant position 16©, to the Section 16 of the CDA regards to protocol, the interior min- tion of public duty,” said Chaudhry room for appointment of non-judicial erning the electoral processes had of ECP “to a parliamentary commit- Ordinance 1960. istry had notified on July 6, 1970 that Mehmood Bashir Virk, who is part officers as chief election commis- been completed. tee for hearing and confirmation of “For the purpose of rais- “Members of the Senate/ Members of of the subcommittee. sioner and members of the ECP. He expressed the hope that the any one person”. ing funds and borrowing money the National Assembly [are] to take He talked about the “miscon- A participant of the meeting said draft law would be finalised on In case there is no consensus — including through issuance of precedence over all others in the ception” that MNAs and senators are the PTI and NP wanted to include the Tuesday and presented before the between the prime minister and the bonds, Sukuk, and debentures, said group”. corrupt and that they make money head of any organisation in the list National Assembly in a couple of opposition leader, they will forward the CDA shall be entitled to, with The group referred to is all grade from other sources. He said parlia- of eligible candidates. The issue was days. separate lists to the committee for the prior approval in writing of the 22 officers in the government. mentarians be given their legal rights likely to be addressed in the next two The new law will do away with consideration and confirmation of federal government, sell, transfer, MNAs and senators are currently in order to end corruption. days, he added. Under the amended the mandatory requirement of any one individual. assign, lease [out], share, mortgage, pledge, hypothecate or otherwise encumber or dispose of its assets and properties (movable and immovable),” reads the proposed Accountability bureau conducts only 6,300 inquiries in 16 years clause 16. Since its establishment in 1960, the CDA has been relying on the sale of residential and commercial Internews the cases of cheating public at large strategy under which the bureau has A recent report of the Trans- been prescribed for efficient, effec- properties to shore up its revenues through fraudulent financial compa- adopted a proactive approach to curb parency International has lowered tive and expeditious disposal of cases to meet development and non- nies, bank frauds, wilful bank loan corruption and corrupt practices. Pakistan’s rating in Corruption Per- putting a maximum limit of 10 months development expenditures. defaults, misuse of authority and The document says since NAB ception Index from 126 to 117 which from complaint verification to inquiry In 2011, a similar move was ISLAMABAD: The National Account- embezzlement of funds by govern- came into being, one of its major is a great achievement. to investigation and finally to a refer- planned by the then city manag- ability Bureau (NAB) of Pakistan has ment officials. achievements has been recovery of To create awareness against ill ence in an accountability court. ers but it never materialised. completed only 6,300 inquiries over According to it, NAB received around Rs275.4bn of ill-gotten money, effects of corruption among youth, To ensure uniformity and stand- In 2007, during the ten- the past 16 years, 56 percent of which about 309,000 complaints from which has been deposited in national the document says, NAB in collab- ardisation, the document says, the ure of Kamran Lashari, the CDA matured into formal investigation and individuals and private/public organ- exchequer. The comparative figures oration with the Higher Education standard operating procedures for board had opted to unconven- more than 80pc investigations were isations over the past 16 years. for the past two years are indicative Commission has established over investigation officers have been tional means to generate funds by taken into the stage of prosecution Corruption is mother of all evils of the hard work being put in by NAB 10, 000 character building societies reviewed and revised after a gap of investing Rs1.5 billion in the stock in courts. which undermines development and staff in an atmosphere of renewed in universities, colleges and schools 10 years market. The investment backfired Of the 1,762 decided cases, 889 deprives people of their rights. energy and dynamism. over the past year. The implementation of enforce- and the CDA suffered huge losses. ended in conviction with 51 percent Considering this, NAB was An increase in number of com- Besides, NAB has introduced a ment measures and prosecution “It’s not yet known how much conviction rate which speaks for itself, established as the country’s apex anti- plaints reflects enhanced public quantified grading system within the matters is being monitored in NAB money will be borrowed and according to a document released by corruption organisation tasked with trusted in NAB. organisation to review and improve through daily, weekly and monthly which properties will be pledged NAB yesterday. elimination of corruption through a According to the paper, Pildat in the performance of its officials. reports and inspections. against it. Currently, we are just It lists measures adopted by holistic approach of awareness, pre- a recent report supports the position Under the system, NAB’s regional NAB has also introduced an finalising the amendments to get NAB’s current management and vention and enforcement. stated above as 42pc of people ques- bureaus are being evaluated on given internal accountability mechanism. approval from the government,” achievement made so far to eradi- NAB Chairman Qamar Zaman tioned expressed trust in NAB against criteria on annual basis. Inefficient, unscrupulous and delin- said a senior official of the civic cate corruption and says prime focus Chaudhry has chalked out a com- 30pc showing trust in police and 29pc With improved infrastructure and quent officers are being weeded out agency’s finance wing, requesting of the accountability watchdog is on prehensive national anti-corruption in government officials. rationalised workload, timelines have and proceeded against under law. anonymity.

Mercury rising Provincial government to offer free cancer treatment

Internews They said the free treatment government for two months each facility would also be extended to year. Overall, the provincial gov- patients from Federally Admin- ernment provided free treatment istered Tribal Areas. The officials to cancer patients for six months, PESHAWAR: As the number of can- added 7,000 cancer patients were whereas Novartis extended support cer patients is increasing with each being registered annually. for 30 months. The project concluded passing day, the provincial gov- “Currently we are offering serv- in 2014. “We want to keep the project ernment has been providing free ices to at least 445 people with blood intact and discussed it with the chief treatment to those suffering from cancer, but the new programme is minister, who without thinking about blood cancer. However, with assist- likely to cover 3,615 people,” a senior it for a second, told us to go ahead,” ance from Novartis Pharmaceutical health official revealed, requesting the official said. “He gave further Corporation, authorities have decided anonymity. directions to provide free treatment to increase the range of treatment. The first phase of the project for all types of cancer.” Over Rs1.9bn has been allocated for was launched in 2011 and some 810 He added another agreement was the purpose. patients were offered free treatment signed with Novartis on November Senior health officials said a against blood cancer at a cost of some 24, 2014 and a sum of Rs200 million meeting was held last week where Rs578m up till June 2014. was allocated for two years. The offi- participants decided all cancer A memorandum of under- cial added the government has now Residents sleep under trees in a park during rising temperatures in Karachi yesterday. The patients will be treated for the next standing was signed with Novartis decided the project will carry on till Meteorological Department has forecast hot and dry weather in most parts of the country with the three years. The Free Treatment for whereby the pharmaceutical com- 2019 and financially disadvantaged highest temperatures recorded at 47 degree Celsius in the southern Sindh province. Poor Cancer Patients Programme will pany promised to provide treatment cancer patients will be provided free kick off from August. for 10 months and the provincial treatment. 14 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 INDIA

Plan to hike Graduates need financial aid to rehabilitated more practical bonded labourers skills: Expert IANS NEW DELHI: The government is revising the scheme for the rehabilitation of freed bonded every year but most of them were in labourers to effect a five-fold the unorganised sector. increase in financial assistance to National Skill “India has a labour market of 48 Rs100,000, union Labour Minister Development crore (480 million) people. Almost Bandaru Dattatreya said yesterday. 1.2 crore (12 million) people are The budget for the revised Corporation added every year. scheme is also proposed to be underscores need for It includes all kinds of jobs increased from Rs50m to about skills development. - organised or unorganised. Job cre- Rs470m per annum. ation is happening, but the challenge Under the revised scheme, is that a very large number of these the most deprived and margin- jobs are created in the unorganised alised victims like the disabled, Sarta Kalara, a construction worker, holds her 15-month-old Shivani as a barrier tape is tied to the child’s or informal sector. This is a chal- women and children rescued IANS lenge for our country because most ankle to prevent her from running away when Kalara works nearby, in Ahmedabad. from trafficking, sexual exploita- of the people want to work in the tion and transgenders will be given formal sector”, Krishna contended. Rs300,000 each for rehabilitation, He said youth must understand the minister said. NEW DELHI: Most graduates com- the difference that skill develop- Poor parents tether toddler The special category of women ing out of colleges in India have only ment brings to their lives, something and minors will get Rs200,000. theoretical knowledge and ways which a degree or certificate alone A normal adult male bonded have to be found to make them cannot do. labourer will get Rs 100,000, he skilled in their areas of choice, the Formed in 2010, NSDC acts as to rock while they work added. head of an institution tasked with a catalyst in skill development by “One of the key features of the doing just that has said. providing funding to enterprises, new scheme is that it will address “We have graduates who have companies and organisations that new forms of bondage such as theoretical knowledge but no provide such training. Reuters “I tie her so she doesn’t go on the the open at night. Prabhat Jha, head organised begging rackets, forced practical experience. A person NSDC partners have skilled over road. My younger son is three and a of child protection at Save the Chil- prostitution and child labour for can explain his or her learning on eight million people and placed half so he is not able to control her,” dren India, said creche facilities were which women, the disabled and paper, but may have never done around four million people in jobs. AHMEDABAD, INDIA: Fifteen said the 23-year old, covering her rare, and usually cost. transgenders are mercilessly it in actual work situations,” Jay- It has a target of skilling or up-skill- month-old Shivani tugs at a plastic face with her sari. “There should be creche facili- used,” Dattatreya said. ant Krishna, CEO of the National ing 150 million people by 2022 by tape her mother has wrapped around “This site is full of traffic, I have ties, either from the government or Under the revised scheme, the Skill Development Corpora- fostering private sector initiatives. her leg and tied to a rock at a build- no option. I do this for her safety.” the construction companies. There money will remain in an annuity tion (NSDC), said in an interview, Krishna said that there is an ing site in western India. There are about 40 million con- should be a safe place for these chil- account — controlled by the dis- pointing to the deficiency of employ- agreement with training partners Barefoot and caked in dust, the struction workers in India, at least dren. They are at real risk of being trict magistrate — and a monthly able skills among graduates in that after successful completion of toddler spends nine hours a day in one in five of them women, and the hurt,” Jha said. earning will flow to the benefi- India. a course, at least 70 percent of the temperatures topping 40 degrees Cel- majority poor migrants who shift Indian companies usually out- ciary’s account. The corpus will “We need to find ways and cre- students have to be employed, but sius (104 Fahrenheit) attached to the from site to site, building infrastruc- source the hiring of cheap labour. remain intact until decided by the ate avenues to make them skilled he confessed that the actual number 4.5 foot (1.4 metre) tape marked “cau- ture for India’s booming cities. Contractors bring gangs of workers, district magistrate, Dattatreya said. in the area of their choice and is a “little less”. tion”. Sarta Kalara, her mother, says Across the country it is not often recruited from the same village, The minister said the rehabili- help them become an employable “If you ask me whether 70 per- she has no option but to tether Shiv- uncommon to see young children to lift, dig or hammer with little over- tation work has been made simple workforce as per local and global cent of students are actually being ani to the stone despite her crying, rolling in the sand and mud as their sight or safety provisions. for the district magistrate/collec- industry requirements”, Krishna placed, I would say it’s a little less while she and her husband work for parents carry bricks or dig for new While Shivani is tied to her rock, tor/deputy commissioner. said. than that. But the fact is that as 250 rupees ($3.8) each a shift digging roads or luxury houses. men pause for coconut and water Bonded labour still exists in the He said that hundreds of thou- many jobs are also to be created in holes for electricity cables in the city Many such families live in tents amid the searing heat as mothers country despite constitutional pro- sands of jobs were created in India the country”, he added. of Ahmedabad. on site or, like Shivani’s, bed down in take quick breaks to feed their kids. visions for its eradication.

Swamy urges No monkey business! Modi to remove Air Force chief flies Rajan as central indigenous fighter jet bank governor

IANS IANS statement. The deputy IAF chief, Air Marshal S.B.P. Sinha, flew the Tejas in September 2014. BENGALURU: The IAF chief, Air Chief Marshal “It is a moral boosting gesture from the Arup Raha, yesterday flew a trainer version of IAF chief and reposes great confidence of our NEW DELHI: BJP’s newly nom- the indigenous Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA) valuable customer in our abilities”, said HAL inated Rajya Sabha member over the city under a cloudy sky, an official said. chairman T. Suvarna Raju on the occasion. Subramanian Swamy has urged “Air Chief Marshal Raha flew in the twin- As an experienced fighter pilot, Air Chief Prime Minister Narendra Modi to seater Tejas trainer (Pilot Version-6) for 30 Marshal Raha, 61, is a qualified flying instructor remove RBI Governor Raghuram minutes to check its capabilities and landed and a fighter combat leader with 3,400 years Rajan, saying “he is mentally not safely at the HAL airport, with IAF Group Cap- of flying experience. fully Indian”. tain M. Rangachari,” IAF spokesman Wing He also took salute at the graduation cer- In a two-page letter to Modi Commander Anupam Banerjee said here. emony of the 38th flight test course of ASTE, on Monday, Swami said Rajan, a Air Chief Marshal Raha became the first IAF where the IAF conducts flight testing of air- former International Monetary chief to fly the home-grown fighter, designed craft and integrates weapons and systems into Fund chief economist, should be and developed by the Aeronautical Develop- its aircraft fleet. removed as Reserve Bank of India ment Agency (ADA) of the state-run Defence The test pilots’ school is one of the six of its (RBI) chief with immediate effect. Research and Development Organisation kind in the world, where test pilots and flight “The reason why I recom- (DRDO) and built by defence behemoth Hin- test engineers are trained for the IAF. mend this is that I am shocked by dustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) here. Indigenous fighter aircraft like LCA and the wilful and apparently delib- “It is my first sortie in Tejas, it is a good air- Advanced light Helicopter (ALH) of HAL and erate attempt by Rajan to wreck craft to fly and fit for induction into our fleet Airborne Early Warning and Communication the Indian economy,” he wrote in for operations”, Air Chief Marshal Raha told air (AEWC) aircraft of the DRDO’s Centre for Air- the letter. warriors at the IAF’s Aircraft Systems Testing borne Systems (CAS) are test flown by pilots Non-Productive Assets of pub- Establishment (ASTE) at the defence airport. trained at the ASTE school. lic sector banks have doubled to HAL spokesman Gopal Sutar told IANS that Air Chief Marshal Raha also opened the Rs.3.5 lakh crore in two years, Air Chief Marshal Raha piloted the aircraft dur- LCA paint hangar and visited the aircraft’s Swamy said. ing the 30-minute sortie and conducted aerial production line facility in the state-run “These actions of Rajan lead manoeuvres to check its versatility. complex, located in the tech city’s eastern me to believe that he is acting more “The air chief also carried out manoeuvers suburbs. as a disrupter of the Indian econ- in the flying envelope of the aircraft, simu- The IAF, which plans to induct 120 Tejas A monkey drinks water from a tap on a hot afternoon in Jammu yesterday. omy than the person who wants lated air-to-air and air-to-ground attacks and fighters, including 100 of modified versions in the Indian economy to improve.” Temperatures of around 42 degrees Celsius were forecast in the region. assessed the advanced modes of the radar and its frontline fleet, will initially receive four from “Moreover, he is in this coun- helmet mounted display sight,” Sutar said in a HAL to raise its first LCA squadron this year. try on a Green Card provided by the US government and is, there- fore, mentally not fully Indian. Otherwise, why would he renew his Green Card as RBI governor by making the mandatory annual visit Five ministers set to return to Rajya Sabha to the US to keep the Green Card current,” Swamy said. “I cannot see why someone IANS Sitharaman, are Power Minister Janata Dal-United leaders Sharad be given an opportunity. Both the seats will go to TDP. appointed by the UPA (United Pro- Piyush Goyal, Rural Development Yadav, K C Tyagi, BJP leaders M J “There is a precedent in the party However, a final decision on these gressive Alliance) government, Minister Chaudhary Birender Singh, Akbar, Anil Madhav Dave, Congress not to give more than two terms in two leaders will be taken by Prime who is apparently working against NEW DELHI: Among seven union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu leader Jairam Ramesh, are retiring Rajya Sabha, but Naidu was given Minister Narendra Modi. Indian economic interests, should ministers retiring from the Rajya and Parliamentary Affairs Minister from Rajya Sabha over the next three a third term last time,” a senior BJP TDP leader Y S Chowdary is be kept in this post when we have Sabha over the next three months, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi. months. functionary told IANS. likely to make a comeback to the so many nationalist minded five are set to return to the upper The six are from the ruling Naidu, a Rajya Sabha member Sitharaman’s renomination is upper house. Piyush Goyal, a Rajya experts available in this coun- house, while two are facing opposi- Bharatiya Janata Party. from Karnataka, is retiring in June. He being opposed by one of the union Sabha MP from Maharashtra, is likely try for the RBI governorship,” he tion within the party. The seventh minister to retire is seeking a fourth term in the upper ministers who was once very close to return to the upper house from added. Among the two are Urban Devel- from Rajya Sabha, is Y S Chowdary, house, which is rare in the party. to her. Rajasthan, where four seats are fall- Rajan was appointed the RBI opment Minister M Venkaiah Naidu Minister of State for Science and Tech- According to sources, the Rash- However, her work as minister ing vacant and are coming in the BJP governor by the previous UPA gov- and Commerce Minister Nirmala Sith- nology and Ministry of Earth Science, triya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has been widely appreciated. quota. In Rajasthan, two candidates ernment in September 2013 for a araman, informed sources said. who is from ally Telugu Desam Party and some leaders in the BJP are not Sitharaman is presently a Rajya will be decided by the state unit and three-year term, which can be Those retiring between June (TDP). in favour of giving another term to Sabha member from Andhra Pradesh, the remaining two by the BJP central extended. to August, other than Naidu and A total of 53 members, including Naidu, and feel someone new should where two seats are falling vacant. leadership. INDIA WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 15

Lots of pots Five cars failed BJP rout in Delhi crash tests: Global auto safety NGO civic by-election IANS

NEW DELHI: A global non-profit organisation for automobile safety bolsters AAP yesterday disclosed that as many as five passenger cars sold in India have failed their crash tests. The UK-based Global NCAP vendors and slum dwellers have (New Car Assessment Programme) returned to the Congress fold,” its awarded zero star rating for adult Traditional voters leader Ajay Maken told the media. safety to passenger cars sold coming back to party. “The minority vote has also in India such as Renault Kwid, shifted to the Congress,” he said. The Maruti Suzuki Celerio and Mahi- Congress bagged four seats despite ndra Scorpio. the “money, muscle and adminis- The Global New Car Assess- IANS trative power of the AAP and BJP”, ment Programme rated the he added. The results upset the BJP, passenger vehicles after it con- which controls all three civic bodies. ducted crash tests under its It retained only two of seven wards it ‘SaferCarsforIndia’ initiative, the NEW DELHI: The BJP yesterday suf- won in 2012 while wresting one seat. results of which were released at fered stunning losses in by-elections It lost two seats each to Congress and the Indian automobile safety con- to Delhi’s civic bodies, winning only AAP and one to an independent. ference held in Faridabad. Village women carry steel pots on their heads during a protest rally demanding equal rights of water three of the 13 seats. First-timer AAP The AAP winners were Moham- “The latest Indian crash test got five seats and the Congress four. med Sadiq (Ballimaran), Ashok distribution, in Mumbai, yesterday. results continue to disappoint,” An independent who also won later Kumar (Vikas Nagar), Ramesh (Mat- Global NCAP said. joined the Congress. iala), Anil Malik (Nanakpura) and Both Chief Minister Arvind Kejri- Abhishek Bidhuri (Tehkhand). wal and Congress leader Ajay Maken Mahender Nagpal (Wazirpur), claimed victory. Bhupinder Mohan Bhandari (Shali- Kejriwal said the people of Delhi mar Bagh) and Krishan Gehlot had reaffirmed their faith in the (Nawada) were the BJP victors. Most elderly parents want to live with sons Aam Aadmi Party, which stormed The Congress winners were to power in assembly elections in Ashok Bhardwaj (Qamaruddin February last year. Nagar), Yogita Rathee (Munirka), IANS urban areas. want at least one daughter, when More than three-fourths (77 per- He said that in a municipal body Anand Kumar (Khichripur) and Pan- In Haryana, the state with India’s asked preferences for an extra child, cent) of the respondents said they where only the BJP and Congress kaj (Jhilmil). lowest child sex ratio (834 females per only six said they wanted daughters. expect to live with their sons when had a presence, “outsider AAP” had Independent Rajender Singh 1,000 males), 90 percent of respond- The survey was based on indirect old. Only 16 percent Indians said gained the maximum seats. Tanwar (Bhati) was a Congress rebel. NEW DELHI: Almost 77 percent of ents said they would prefer to live questions to test people’s attitudes. they would consider living with their He vowed to sweep when fresh He said after winning that he was Indian parents expect to live with with their sons during old age rather Some questions asked: How many daughters. States in the south see elections were held next year for the rejoining the Congress. their sons during old age while than their daughters. sons or daughters would they ide- higher percentages than the national North Delhi Municipal Corporation Both the Congress and BJP said seven percent want to live with Maharashtra was next, with ally prefer to have? If they were to average. (NDMC), East Delhi Municipal Cor- the results showed that the people of their daughters, according to the 85 percent of parents saying they have an extra child, what sex would Tripura has the highest per- poration (EDMC) and South Delhi the capital were moving away from India Human Development Survey expected support from sons. they prefer? centage of parents (72pc) preferring Municipal Corporation (SDMC). the AAP after voting for it over- (IHDS), conducted jointly by research- While 73 percent of the peo- IndiaSpend plotted the preference to live with daughters in their old The three bodies originally made whelmingly in the 2015 assembly ers from University of Maryland and ple surveyed said they should for sons as the extra child with the sex age, followed by Tamil Nadu (17pc). up the Delhi Municipal Corporation elections. National Council of Applied Economic ideally have one daughter, 11 per- ratio across Indian states. The perception that parents can (MCD), the city’s biggest civic body. AAP leader Somnath Bharti Research (NCAER), New Delhi. cent said they should ideally have Maharashtra has a low child sex live with daughters has improved over The Congress, wiped out in last refuted the charge. “The fact is we These are the findings from the two daughters. ratio and a high preference for a son the last seven years: Asked if they year’s assembly polls, said the poor contested municipal elections for the IHDS-2 (2011-12) data-set, covering While as many as 60 percent said (39 percent) for an extra child. would consider living with daugh- had begun to return to its fold. first time. Our senior leaders did not a representative sample of 41,554 they ideally wanted one son, 26 per- The main reason Indian parents ters, 14 percent said yes during a “The traditional Congress voters even campaign. If anything, this is a households across 33 states and cent said they wanted two sons. prefer sons is that Indians expect to survey in 2004-05; 16 percent said including safai karmacharis, street promising start for us in civic polls.” Union Territories in both rural and While more people (73 percent) depend on them in their old age. yes in 2011-12.

A third of Indians likely to suffer Four cities in busy itinerary of Apple CEO Cook from hypertension IANS store) in Ambience Mall in Vasant country from China, where Apple “India is incredibly exciting. The Kunj,” an Apple source said on con- announced a $1bn investment in the population of India is incredibly by 2020: Experts dition of anonymity. local ride-hailing app Didi Chuxing. young. Almost half the people in India The source, however, did not give “The trip signifies how significant are below 25. And so I see the demo- NEW DELHI/HYDERABAD: With details of his meeting with Modi. Indian market has become for Apple. graphics there also being incredibly IANS Tim Cook (pictured) set to arrive in Meanwhile, officials in Hyderabad Cook is coming here to announce great for a consumer brand and for Delhi on his first visit as Apple CEO, said that Apple will launch its devel- technology for the future,” Vishal people that really want the best prod- his diary seems to be full with visits opment centre there tomorrow. Tripathi, research director at global ucts,” Cook had said earlier this year. NEW DELHI: One third of India’s to various places in Gurgaon, Delhi, The facility will commence oper- market consultancy firm Gartner, Cook, who joined Apple in March population is likely to suffer from Hyderabad and Mumbai. ations on 100,000 square feet leased said. 1998, was made chief executive of the hypertension by 2020, with around Cook’s visit to India comes at a space in WaveRock, a building owned Apple’s manufacturing partner company, succeeding Steve Jobs, on 20 per cent of the rural populace time when the US technology giant by real estate giant Tishman Speyer Foxconn is already present here and August 24, 2011. too a victim, said health experts is hit by slower growth in global sales at Nanakramguda. is looking to set up a manufacturing Hit by slower growth in the sale of yesterday. of its flagship products — iPhone, iPad However, it was not confirmed if base in the country. its flagship products iPhone, iPad and Experts said that hyperten- and Mac. Cook will be present to inaugurate the “If Cook announces concrete Mac globally, Apple’s revenue dropped sion is on the verge of becoming an He is expected to meet Prime company’s first development centre also planning to build its own campus. plans to set up a manufacturing unit for the first time since 2003 as the “epidemic” and every person with Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. in India. Telangana Chief Minister K Chan- here, this will create more jobs and tech giant released earning reports a blood pressure count of 140/90 He had met Modi at a Silicon Valley “Will share a big news with you drasekhar Rao or his son and IT bring in better competition in the for the second quarter of fiscal 2016 is considered to be in the hyper- event in the US last September, where all day after tomorrow. Suspense till Minister K T Rama Rao may make smartphone and other devices mar- in March. tensive category. they discussed manufacturing plans then,” tweeted Telangana IT minister an announcement for allocation of ket in the low-price segment,” Tripathi Eevenue was down in both Amer- “Studies show that hyper- under Modi’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. K T Rama Rao. land to Apple for its campus. added. icas and China — Apple’s two biggest tension is likely to end up being “In Delhi, after greeting employ- The US-based firm plans to Cook is also expected to meet According to him, Cook may territories. It declined around 10 per- an epidemic in the near future; ees at the Apple’s corporate office at expand the facility to 250,000 square Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N raise the issue of allowing Apple to cent in the Americas and 26 percent and approximately one-third of One Horizon Centre in Gurgaon, he feet by next year. It will have 2,500 Chandrababu Naidu, who is trying import and sell refurbished iPhones in China. our population will suffer from is expected to visit iZen Store (Apple employees, sources said. to attract big ticket investments for at a cheaper price in India. This will According to reports, the company it by 2020. Currently, estimates authorised reseller) in Green Park The company, which has taken his state. give Apple a slot in mid and low-price is looking for new growth markets show that incidence of hyperten- and the iWorld Store (Apple premium the space on lease at WaveRock, is The Apple CEO is flying to the segment. like India after its sales declined. sion is 20 to 40 per cent in urban areas and 12 to 17 per cent in rural areas,” said Pratik Soni, cardiolo- gist consultant at Mumbai-based Wockhardt Hospital. Bleak future Minister slams probe in Stating that patients suffer from hypertension-related health problems, which they are not able to understand, Soni said, “Not even Kerala woman’s killing half of the Indians residing in urban areas are aware of the kill- ing consequences of hypertension.” AFP contaminated on all fundamental Pradeep Gadge, consultant levels,” Gandhi told reporters in New diabetologist, Gadge’s Diabetes Delhi of the probe’s findings. Centre, said: “Apart from heart dis- NEW DELHI: Indian women’s min- The postmortem had been con- ease, hypertension increases the ister yesterday accused police and ducted by a junior staff member, the risk of stroke, heart failure, kid- forensic experts of incompetence investigation found, and the sus- ney damage, blindness and many over the brutal rape and murder of pected murder weapon improperly more chronic problems.” a young student, a case that echoed handled by numerous people, the Emphasising that youngsters the 2012 gang-rape of a Delhi stu- minister said. were becoming prey to hyperten- dent that sparked mass protests. The 30-year-old law student sion quite easily due to sedentary Women’s and children’s minis- from the lowest Dalit caste was lifestyle and lack of body fit- ter Maneka Gandhi accused police of killed late last month in her home ness, Gadge suggested that young dithering in their investigation into in southern Kerala state, sparking people should also go for regu- the attack on the student which was protests. The attack drew compar- lar check-ups, especially if their so vicious that she was found lying isons with the fatal gang-rape of a family members are suffering from in blood, her intestines hanging out. student on a bus in Delhi in 2012, hypertension. Gandhi said an independ- which shone a global spotlight on According to doctors, 90 per ent probe into the case by India’s frightening levels of sexual violence cent of patients suffering from national commission for women against women. It led to an overhaul hypertension are not even aware A child of a broom-maker plays with rotten vegetables outside his family’s makeshift tent on the found glaring problems with the way of India’s rape laws, including the of their health condition, which outskirts of Srinagar yesterday. India, which has the largest number of poor in the world, completes in which forensic experts were han- speeding up of trials, tougher pen- can be fatal as the condition may 25 years of the beginning of economic reforms this July. dling the assault. alties for offenders and improved lead to brain haemorrhage. “The crime scene had been policing. 16 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 EUROPE / UK

Survey: Ethnic Regal show Johnson’s Hitler minorities may hold key to comments EU vote absurd: Tusk Reuters LONDON: Britain’s ethnic minor- ities could hold the key to deciding the outcome to the June 23 refer- projects of Adolf Hitler I cannot endum on membership of the remain silent,” he said. Describing it European Union, with non-white Boris Johnson as an “absurd” argument, he added: voters strongly in support of stay- crossed the “Boris Johnson crossed the bounda- ing in the bloc, according to a ries of a rational discourse.” survey. boundaries of a Tusk said the EU was “a com- However, ethnic minor- rational discourse, mon tool, not a superstate”, a means ity groups are far less likely to for states to cooperate rather than vote, according to the findings by the European Council a government for Europe: “The EU the British Election Study which President said. may be blamed for many things, but were reported by Channel 4 News it still remains the most effective yesterday. firewall against the ever dangerous, Channel 4 said the full results and often tragic conflicts among the of the British Election Study sur- Reuters nations of Europe. vey would be published at the end “The only alternative ... is polit- of the month. ical chaos, the return to national The survey of more than egoisms and in consequence the 22,000 Britons between April 14 T he Crown Procession going through Horse Guards Arch in central London, Britain, yesterday. The COPENHAGEN: Boris Johnson, the triumph of anti-democratic ten- and May 4 found that white voters British armed forces will be playing a major role in the ceremony that is part of the State Opening of leader of the campaign for Britain to dencies, which can lead to history were divided evenly on the issue Parliament, taking place today. In all, 1,308 members of the Armed Forces and 217 horses will be on leave the European Union, showed repeating itself.” but opinion among ethnic minority public show in a variety of ceremonial roles. “political amnesia” with his “absurd” A British exit from the EU, groups was split by 2 to 1 in favour comparison between the EU and Adolf already shaken by differences over of staying in the 28-nation bloc, Hitler’s plan to rule the continent, EU’s migration and the future of the euro putting the “remain” camp ahead Donald Tusk said yesterday. zone, would rip away its second- by 43 percent to 40.5 percent. The response of the European largest economy, one of its top two However, once the results were Council President to the former Lon- military powers and by far its rich- filtered to only include those very Khan vows to fast-track affordable housing don mayor was among the bluntest est financial centre. likely to vote, the result changed yet from a Brussels establishment Meanwhile, in London the cam- to 45 percent backing an exit and that has been anxious not to stir a paign to get Britain out of European 44.5 percent wanting to stay. Bloomberg city’s underground rail network and backlash in Britain while urging Brit- Union has taken a three-point lead That was because 80 percent buses. At least 120 homes could be ons to opt to remain in the bloc. over the “Remain” campaign, poll- of white voters were certain to vote built on the site adjoining a rail junc- Britain will hold a referendum on ing firm TNS said yesterday. For the compared with only 57 percent of tion, the mayor said. He said he’ll also EU membership next month. first time it has found the “Out” cam- Indian or Black Caribbean voters. LONDON: New London Mayor Sadiq insist on “far higher levels of afford- Johnson, a potential prime min- paign ahead since February. In Stockholm, Sweden’s Khan (pictured) pledged to fast-track able housing” in new developments. ister if fellow Conservative David Forty-one-percent of respond- defence minister Peter Hultqvist approval for building so-called afford- “I am determined to fix Lon- Cameron fails to keep Britain in the ents wanted Britain out of the EU, yesterday said, a British exit from able housing on surplus publicly owned don’s housing crisis and ensure that EU, told a newspaper that unifying up five percentage points from a the European Union would weaken land saying construction of homes for all Londoners have the opportunity to authority in Europe could not work: May 3 poll, while those wanting to European security. Britain is one of lower-paid workers in the UK capital rent or buy a decent home at a price “Napoleon, Hitler, various people remain in the bloc fell one point to Sweden’s closest allies in the Euro- has almost come to a standstill they can afford, but the scale of the tried this out, and it ends tragically. 38 percent. pean Union with both opting out Khan, who succeeded Boris challenge is now clearer than ever “The EU is an attempt to do this “This poll suggests we are seeing of the single currency. Johnson a week ago, said an urgent and we’re not going to be able to turn by different methods.” movement from undecided voters “We need them deeply as a audit at City Hall showed that only things around overnight,” Khan said. Tusk told reporters in Copen- towards the Leave camp, though we partner in the European Union and 4,880 affordable homes were con- “One of the first things we can do is hagen that Johnson had suffered will need to wait until the next poll to it will be a split in European Union structed last year, the lowest number approval to construction on sites work with Transport for London to “amnesia” and a “dangerous black- see if this is a trend or random varia- and that is very bad,” Defence Min- since current records began in 1991, such as Landmark Court in South- fast-track their numerous surplus out” of memory: “When I hear the tion,” Luke Taylor, head of social and ister Hultqvist told reporters in according to an e-mailed statement. wark, owned by Transport for sites for development that have pre- EU being compared to plans and political attitudes at TNS UK, said. Stockholm. Khan said he’d give rapid London, the agency that runs the viously just been sat on.”

Jailed Russian Battle-ready artiste says Austria swears in guards cracked Chancellor Kern his rib AFP fellow Social Democrat Werner Fay- AFP mann of the SPOe party who threw in the towel on May 9 after a string of poor election results. MOSCOW: Russian performance VIENNA: Crisis-hit Austria Kern faces major challenge artiste Pyotr Pavlensky, who is on appointed new Chancellor Christian of uniting a fractious SPOe and trial for setting fire to the security Kern yesterday, with the ailing cen- smoothing over tensions with its service headquarters in a protest, trist government pinning its hopes coalition partner, the conservative said yesterday that guards con- on the ex-railway boss to help stem People’s Party (OeVP). voying him from court had beaten the surge of the far-right. He also has to convince Aus- him, cracking his rib. The 50-year-old was sworn in trians unhappy about arrival of “As I write these lines, my knee by President Heinz Fischer at Vien- migrants and rising unemploy- has been injured, I have a cracked na’s Hofburg palace. ment to vote for his party at the next rib and internal bruising. “You are taking on a great and scheduled elections in 2018. “Every breath gives me pain,” beautiful but also difficult role with However, Kern’s biggest head- Pavlensky said in a handwritten a lot of responsibilities,” Fischer said ache will be to decide whether to letter published on Facebook by his before the two men sat down to sign ditch the SPOe’s 30-year-old taboo partner Oksana Shalygina which the official certificate of appointment. on cooperating with far-right Free- blamed the assault on “convoy True to his reputation as dom Party (FPOe) dating back to when guards of the Moscow City Court.” someone who takes pride in his the late, controversial Joerg Haider Pavlensky faces up to three appearance, Kern wore a per- became leader of the right-wing party. years in prison for dousing the fectly tailored dark suit and stylish “We won’t work with parties Members of the newly created special police team KORD take part in a demonstration as part of a door of the FSB, the successor to horn-rimmed glasses for his first which stir up hatred against other the KGB, with petrol and setting it ceremony to commemorate finishing their training course at a base outside Kiev, Ukraine. appearance as head of state. people and minorities, full stop,” on fire in November 2015 in a per- The father-of-four replaces Kern said at a press conference. formance he called “Threat”. The first full hearing in Pavlen- sky’s trial, in which he is accused of damaging a cultural heritage site, will be held today at Moscow’s Magic mushroom ingredient may ease severe depression: Study Meshchansky district court. Pavlensky’s lawyer, Dmitry Dinze, confirmed the artist’s injuries, say- Reuters remission beyond the three months. have been exploring the potential developed for treating depression. seen by a psychiatrist the next day ing the beating occurred on Monday Robin Carhart-Harris, who led of psilocybin to ease severe forms But hallucinogenic drugs can also and one, two, three and five weeks when his client was being taken back the study at Imperial College Lon- of depression in people who don’t cause unpleasant reactions, includ- after the second dose. to prison after a court hearing. Dinze don’s department of medicine, said respond to other treatments. ing anxiety and paranoia, so Nutt’s Carhart-Harris said no serious said Pavlensky was attacked by a sin- LONDON: Psilocybin, the psychedelic the results, published in the Lancet The World Health Organisa- team wanted to find out if psilocybin side effects were reported during gle guard and the lawyers would try compound in magic mushrooms, may Psychiatry journal, were striking. tion estimates that some 350 million can be given safely. the study, although all volunteers said to identify him. one day be an effective treatment for Many patients described a pro- people worldwide are affected by The trial involved six men and six they were slightly anxious before and A spokeswoman for Moscow patients with severe depression who found experience, he said, and depression, a common mental dis- women, aged between 30 and 64, all during initial drug administration. City Court, Ulyana Solopova, said fail to recover using other therapies, appeared to undergo a shift in the order characterised by sadness, loss diagnosed with treatment-resistant “Psychedelic drugs have potent the court was not responsible for the scientists said yesterday. way they perceived the world. of interest or pleasure, tiredness, depression. They all went through a psychological effects and are only transfer of defendants back to deten- A small-scale pilot study of “But we shouldn’t get carried feelings of guilt or low self-worth, dis- full screening process before being given in our research when appro- tion centres. Pavlensky is currently psilocybin’s use in cases of treat- away with these results,” he told turbed sleep and appetite, and poor allowed to participate and they were priate safeguards are in place,” he being held in Medvedkovo prison. ment-resistant depression showed reporters in London. “This isn’t a concentration. fully supported before, during and said. “I wouldn’t want members of the During the investigation, he spent a it was safe and effective, the British magic bullet. We’re just learning how Many patients respond to treat- after they received psilocybin. public thinking they can treat their month in a psychiatric hospital having researchers said. to do this treatment.” ment with antidepressants and The patients were given psilo- own depressions by picking their tests of his sanity, which found he was Of 12 patients given the drug, Magic mushrooms grow world- cognitive behavioural therapy, but cybin capsules during two dosing own magic mushrooms. That kind mentally capable. He is also currently all showed some decrease in symp- wide and have been used since around 20 percent don’t get better sessions, seven days apart. of approach could be risky.” on trial for a Saint Petersburg per- toms of depression for at least three ancient times, both for recreation and and are classed as having treatment- Blood pressure, heart rate and the Nutt said the results showed that formance called “Freedom” in which weeks. Seven continued to show a for religious rites. British researchers resistant depression. self-reported intensity of the effects psilocybin “is safe and fast acting, so he set fire to tyres in 2014 in a nod positive response at three months., led by David Nutt, a professor of neu- Psilocybin acts on the serot- of psilocybin were monitored during may - if administered carefully - have to the pro-Western rallies in Kiev. while five others remained in ropsychopharmacology at Imperial, onin system, suggesting it could be each session, and the patients were value for these patients.” EUROPE WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 17 Hollande firm on labour reforms amid protests

against unemployment was not yet fighting the battle every day.” won and he placed the need to reform The Socialist government last The French over his personal popularity, despite week survived a vote of no-con- President said his possible bid for re-election next fidence, which was called by the year. centre-right opposition, after it forced the battle against “I will not give way because too through the labour market reform bill unemployment was many (previous) governments have without parliament’s approval. backed down,” Hollande said in an The draft law will now be debated not yet won and hour-long interview with Europe 1 in the Senate, the upper house of he placed the need radio. parliament. “I prefer that people have an A defiant Hollande said the draft to reform over his image of a president who made law “is going to go through because personal popularity. reforms rather than a president who it has been debated, agreed on and did nothing,” he said. amended”. Police were quick to act as vio- The president also promised lence caused by masked youths broke tougher action against the trouble- AFP out during a march by thousands of makers who infiltrate street protests people through central Paris, kick- against the reforms and provoke con- ing off another week of nationwide frontation with riot police. strikes and demonstrations against “It will not be accepted,” Hollande PARIS: French President Francois the package of reforms. said, promising more arrests and bans Hollande vowed yesterday to stick Truck drivers blocked roads and on protesting for others. with his controversial attempts to ports in northern and western France, “Demonstrating is a right, but reform the labour market, even and there were also clashes between smashing things up is a crime,” he as a new round of violent pro- protesters and police in the western said. tests broke out. cities of Nantes and Rennes, where The president said more than Police fired tear gas in central thousands more had taken to the People react to teargas and percussion grenades during a demonstration against French labour law reform 1,000 people had already been Paris as an initially peaceful protest streets. in Nantes, France, yesterday. arrested and that 350 police offic- organised by unions and students was “We have been ignored, so we will ers had been injured in the violence. disrupted by a more radical fringe. work even harder to make our voices but opponents say it will erode job himself on the left of French politics. nearly 25 percent for young people. Major travel disruptions are The labour reforms have sparked heard,” said Philippe Martinez, head security and do little to bring down “If I am not there... if the left is not “It takes time for those reforms to expected through the week, with rail- two months of protests on France’s of the CGT union, at the Paris rally. unemployment in the country. re-elected, the right or the extreme- take effect,” Hollande said. way unions holding several strikes streets and led to an unsuccess- The government argues the Hollande has pledged to decide by right will win,” he said. “The battle is not won. It will and airport unions planning a walk- ful attempt to bring down the changes contained in the draft law the end of this year whether to stand Hollande is staking his bid on only be won when we have, over out tomorrow. government. will make France’s notoriously for re-election next May, but he said bringing down the jobless rate, stuck several months, a sustained fall Ports are again due for block- But Hollande said the battle rigid labour market more flexible, Tuesday he saw “no alternative” to stubbornly above 10 percent, and at in unemployment,” he said. “I am ages tomorrow.

Striking Belgian prison guards Smugglers made $6bn burst into ministry from migration in 2015

Reuters Reuters facilitators who mostly assist organ- isers and may assist in recruitment activities,” the report said. BRUSSELS: Striking prison warders Corrupt officials may let vehicles burst into the Belgian Justice Min- GENEVA: People smugglers made through border checks or release istry building yesterday, breaking over $5bn from the wave of migra- ships for bribes, as there was so windows and trashing fittings before tion into southern Europe last year, a much money in the trafficking trade. being forced out by baton-wielding report by international crime-fight- About 250 smuggling “hotspots”, riot police firing pepper spray. ing agencies Interpol and Europol often at railway stations, airports Several dozen protesters, some said yesterday. or coach stations, had been identi- covering faces with scarves, broke Nine out of 10 migrants and fied along the routes - 170 inside the through main door of the building refugees entering the European EU and 80 outside. in Brussels during a trade union Union in 2015 relied on “facili- The report’s authors found no demonstration on the street outside. tation services”, mainly loose evidence of fighting between crim- They chanted and waved banners networks of criminals along the inal groups, but larger criminal before scuffling with helmeted riot routes, and the proportion was networks slowly took over smaller police who arrived to eject them. likely to be even higher this year, opportunistic ones, leading to an “The protesters caused a lot the report said. oligopoly. of damage,” said Justice Minister About 1 million migrants entered In 2015, the vast majority of Koen Geens, a main target for the the EU in 2015. Most paid 3,000- migrants made risky boat trips in warders’ anger. Spanish Civil Guard agents stand next to some of the migrants rescued at sea as they arrive at Almeria’s port, 6,000 euros ($3,400-$6,800), so the boats across the Mediterranean from However, he agreed to more Andalusia, southern Spain, yesterday. average turnover was likely between Turkey or Libya, and then travelled talks with unions in a bid to end $5 billion and $6 billion, the report on by road. Around 800,000 were action that has forced the govern- said. still in Libya waiting to travel to the ment to send in troops to help run Finland tightens rules for aslyum seekers To launder the money and inte- EU, the report said. understaffed jails after legal com- grate it into the legitimate economy, But increasing border controls plaints from prisoners that they are couriers carried large amounts of mean air travel is likely to become being denied basic amenities. Reuters refugees would generally not be at “It is currently possible for asy- cash over borders, and smugglers more attractive, with fraudulent At a time when the centre- risk in any parts of the three coun- lum seekers to return to all areas in ran their proceeds through car deal- documents rented out to migrants right coalition is under pressure tries, despite the running conflicts. Afghanistan, Iraq and Somalia without erships, grocery stores, restaurants and then taken back by an accom- over lack of funding for security There was no immediate reac- ongoing armed conflicts as such pre- or transport companies. panying facilitator, the report said. services which failed to prevent HELSINKI: Finland tightened restric- tion from the refugee agencies. But senting a danger to them only because The main organisers came from Migrant smuggling routes could IS cell mounting recent attacks, tions on giving residence permits to the statement by the Finnish Immi- they are staying in the country.” the same countries as the migrants, be used to smuggle drugs or guns, critics say overcrowded prisons asylum seekers from Afghanistan, Iraq gration Service came in the face of Asylum seekers would now only be but often had EU residence permits and there was growing concern that are another symptom of exces- and Somalia yesterday, saying it was a string of international assessments allowed to stay if they could prove that or passports. radicalised foreign fighters could sive cost-cutting and inefficiency. now largely safe for them to return to of the scale of the ongoing bloodshed they were individually at risk. “The basic structure of migrant also use them to enter the EU, it said. Country’s most senior judge waded their war-torn homes. and refugee crisis. Finland’s centre-right coalition smuggling networks includes lead- But there was no concrete into debate when he declared that Authorities in Helsinki, where “It will be more difficult for appli- government - which includes nation- ers who coordinate activities along a data yet to suggest militant a lack of budget for justice system anti-immigration political groups cants from these countries to be alist Finns party - has tightened its given route, organisers who manage groups consistently relied on or meant Belgium was “becoming a have been on the rise, said security granted a residence permit,” the immi- immigration policies since the influx activities locally through personal cooperated with organised crime rogue state”. had improved to such an extent that gration service said in a statement. of asylum seekers last year. contacts, and opportunistic low-level groups, it added.

Russian opposition leader Navalny Protest motorcade and supporters attacked

Reuters after one of them had elbowed an government officials from the pres- old cossack to the ground. ident downwards of graft, is one of “The fight broke out because of the most high profile leaders of the that blow,” Slaboda told the Gov- country’s small liberal opposition and MOSCOW: Russian opposition leader orit Moskva radio station. “We just the founder of Russia’s Anti-corrup- Alexei Navalny and fellow anti-cor- wanted to show them that there is tion Foundation. ruption activists were attacked, no room here for Navalny who lives Russia is due to hold parlia- thrown to the ground and kicked on American money.” mentary elections in September by a group of men at an airport in One of the activists could be seen and Navalny and his group were southern Russia yesterday, accord- lying prone on the ground after being returning from a team-building ing to video posted on social media. kicked in the head. Navalny said the weekend in the area when they Footage showed the assailants, man later had to be hospitalised. Five were assaulted. described by Navalny as Cossacks others, including Navalny himself, State media and pro-Kremlin and wearing traditional fur hats, also suffered injuries. politicians have repeatedly cast the some in military-style fatigues and Cossack paramilitaries, who style liberal opposition, which has only black boots, showering the group themselves as conservative patriots, one sympathetic deputy in the 450- with milk outside the terminal of helped Russia annex Crimea from seat lower house of parliament, as a Anapa airport, about 1,500 km south Ukraine in 2014. Cossack militia foreign-funded fifth column intent of Moscow, before setting upon them. members also attacked the Pussy Riot on sabotaging the country. Dmitry Slaboda, one of the Cos- punk group with whips and teargas Navalny, who was travelling with sacks, said the original plan had been at the Winter Olympics host city of his wife and young children, said just to throw milk at Navalny and his Sochi in 2014 as they tried to per- the attack had been carried out by Taxi drivers line up their vehicles on Elisabeth Bridge during their demonstration against the use of supporters and to hurl insults at them, form a song mocking Vladimir Putin. about 30 Cossacks and that they had Uber rideshare application in Budapest, Hungary, yesterday. but that things had turned violent Navalny, 39, who has accused top punched women as well. 18 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 AMERICAS

Trump ramping Hillary under up national team to expand pressure to win battleground fresh primaries AP WASHINGTON: Donald Trump is moving quickly to install politi- The continued presence in cal operatives in more than a dozen the race of Bernie Sanders—who states, targeting Maine and Minnesota The continued remains a long shot to upset Clinton among others that traditionally favour presence in the race and win the Democratic nomination Democrats, as he lays the groundwork — is prompting concerns among for an expanded electoral battlefield. of Bernie Sanders is Clinton allies that he will damage The staffing expansion, outlined prompting concerns her ability to take on Trump and hurt by campaign strategists represents among Clinton allies the Democrat in the fall. Trump’s first tangible step toward But many supporters of Sanders implementing a general election that he will damage are not worried about any ill effects plan that would defy conventional her ability to take on of the US senator remaining in the wisdom and political trends. Draw- race, arguing that Trump is such a ing his appeal among working class Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton speaks at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky. Trump. flawed candidate that Clinton will white voters in particular, the cam- easily dispatch with him if she faces paign is charting an early path to the him in the November 8 election. fighting until the Democratic National California, New Jersey and several spent two days campaigning there. White House that runs through states “Either way we’re going to get Convention in July, to push Clinton to other states vote on June 7. Sanders has insisted that he will that haven’t supported a Republican Reuters a Democratic president,” said Ali- the left and challenge her ties to Wall Oregon, with a heavily white, lib- stay in the presidential election until in a presidential election in decades. sha Liedtke, 28, a Sanders supporter Street and support for free-trade deals. eral population, politically resembles the Democratic convention on July “I will win states that no Republi- from Ellensburg, Washington. Allies of Clinton have held back its northern neighbour Washington, 25-28, but Democratic strategist Jim can would even run in,” Trump said. In interviews with 14 voters from overt calls for Sanders to exit which voted for Sanders. Oregon vot- Manley said Sanders should be care- The Trump campaign has identi- WASHINGTON: Hillary Clinton is who back the senator from Ver- the race. Any moves by her campaign ers cast their ballots by mail, meaning ful he does not wind up helping Trump. fied roughly 15 states where it plans to under pressure to do well in Dem- mont, supporters said they are not to try drive Sanders out could risk voting there actually began in the last “I have no problem with Sena- install state directors by the end of the ocratic nominating contests in concerned that Trump, the pre- angering Democratic voters and end week of April. tor Sanders staying in until the end,” month. They include Ohio, Florida and Kentucky and Oregon which held sumptive Republican nominee, up backfiring. After Sanders won both West Vir- said Manley, who supports Clinton. “If Virginia and more challenging terrain primaries yesterday so she can turn might succeed US President Barack So Clinton must continue her pri- ginia and Indiana this month, analysts that’s what he chooses to do, I just hope such as Minnesota, Michigan, Wis- her attention to the general election Obama because they do not believe mary fight in Kentucky and Oregon, said he has a good chance of taking he plays it smart and doesn’t give the consin, Pennsylvania and Maine—all and the mounting attacks on her the real estate mogul could win the where analysts predict she will have Kentucky. But Louisville and the Trump campaign any more ammu- states that haven’t favoured a Repub- being waged by Republican candi- general election. a hard time winning. The Democratic western part of the state are more nition than it already has to take on lican presidential contender in at least date Donald Trump. They said Sanders should keep race is unlikely to wrap up before moderate politically, and Clinton Hillary Clinton.” two decades.

Fishing in troubled waters St Louis officer charged with 2011 murder of black man

Reuters December 11, 2011, sparking a high beyond a reasonable doubt in a court speed chase. Stockley was a passen- of law,” St Louis Circuit Attorney Jen- ger in a police SUV that chased the nifer Joyce said in a statement. 24-year-old Smith at speeds reaching Stockley could not immediately SAN FRANCISCO: A former St Louis 80 miles per hour, a statement from be reached for comment. police officer was charged with first- the prosecutor’s office said. Police told the local St Louis Post degree murder for killing a black man Stockley’s vehicle crashed, and Dispatch newspaper at the time in 2011 after a car chase. when they began pursuit again, that a weapon was recovered from The charges come amid height- Stockley could be heard saying on Smith’s vehicle after the killing. The ened scrutiny of police use of an internal police car video, “going prosecutor’s office said the only gun excessive force after killings of to kill him, don’t you know it,” pros- recovered from the scene had only numerous unarmed black people ecutors said. Stockley’s DNA on it. triggered protests across the United Smith’s car began slowing to Prosecutors at the time did not States over the past two years. a stop when Stockley directed his criminally charge Stockley, who Jason Stockley, 35, was arrested partner to smash into Smith’s vehi- left the St Louis Metropolitan Police at his home in Houston, Texas by St cle. Stockley then gets out of his car, Department in 2013, the statement Louis police and the US Marshals, walks towards the driver’s side of said. Additional evidence uncov- St Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office Smith’s vehicle and shoots him five ered by a police department and FBI A man fishes on a Brooklyn pier on a blustery spring evening in New York. The city is experiencing spokeswoman Susan Ryan said. times, the statement said. investigation was provided to pros- cool and windy weather over the past few days with gradual warming expected throughout the week. Stockley, who is white, shot “We believe we have the evidence ecutors in March and led to charges, into Anthony Lamar Smith’s car on we need to prove Mr Stockley’s guilt the statement said. Guatemala and Canada oil sands producers disrupted Colombia accused of failing Belize to hold to enforce US agreement talks on border anew as wildfire shifts north Reuters sector because Colombian com- dispute Reuters Suncor said there was no damage Suncor and Syncrude Canada panies face different conditions of to its assets and that it had enhanced early yesterday confirmed they competition than they would face fire protection around the facilities. had evacuated workers from the were the laws effectively enforced,” AFP The blaze continued to burn affected area. The sudden movement WASHINGTON: Colombia has failed the unions said in the complaint filed CALGARY, ALBERTA: Canadian uncontrolled, covering 704,000 of the fire prompted the evacuation to enforce worker protections in a with the Labour Department’s Office energy producers were hit with fresh acres, officials said. It was moving 98 of some 4,000 people from work free trade agreement with the United of Trade and Labour Affairs. GUATEMALA CITY: Guatemala disruptions yesterday after a massive to 131 feet per minute and had jumped camps outside Fort McMurray, with States, US and Colombian labour The free trade deal was to guar- and Belize will hold talks in Tur- wildfire burning around the oil sands a critical firebreak, where plants and all northbound traffic again cut off at unions said, raising questions about antee Colombian workers the right key this weekend on a border hub of Fort McMurray, Alberta, shifted trees had been removed to stop it from the city, the Regional Municipality of similar provisions in the massive to freely unionise and collectively dispute that veered toward crisis north, forcing the evacuation of about spreading, north of the city to push into Wood Buffalo said. Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal. bargain with employers. The Trans- last month after Belizean soldiers 4,000 people from work camps. the oil sand camp areas. The entire population of Fort In a complaint filed with a divi- Pacific Partnership trade deal has killed a Guatemalan boy. Suncor Energy Inc, one of the TransAlta Corp’s Poplar Creek McMurray, about 90,000 people, was sion of the US Labour Department, similar provisions but also requires Belize Foreign Minister Wilfred area’s biggest operators, said yester- cogeneration power plant, which pro- forced to flee nearly two weeks ago as the unions said threats and acts of all 12 members, which include Viet- Elrington will meet his Guate- day it started a staged and orderly vides power to Suncor, was also shut uncontrolled wildfire raged through violence against trade unionists in nam, Malaysia, Mexico and Peru, to malan counterpart Carlos Raul shutdown of its base plant operations yesterday due to the wildfire, said some neighbourhoods and destroyed Colombia were neither properly establish minimum wages, work- Morales, in Istanbul on Saturday as a precautionary measure. provincial electric system operator. about 15 percent of structures. investigated nor prosecuted. ing hours and occupational safety the two sides said. The AFL-CIO and four Colom- requirements. The two Central American bian unions said in the complaint AFL-CIO President Richard countries have a 150-year-old that since the US-Colombian trade Trumka called the TPP labour pro- dispute centered on the Sarstoon deal took effect in 2011, some 99 visions negotiated last year a “near River, which runs between them. Colombian workers and worker carbon copy” of those in the Colom- “Both sides have agreed that advocates were killed as they tried to bian trade deal and said they, too, notwithstanding those positions exercise their rights. Six workers were would probably fail, driving down which neither side will relinquish, kidnapped, and 955 death threats wages and standards in the United a mechanism must be found to were received, the complaint said. States. guarantee peaceful use, stability, The unions, including those rep- “Four years after the US-Colom- and navigational security at the resenting many of Colombia’s oil bia trade deal took effect, anti-union Sarstoon River,” Belize’s foreign workers and farm workers, also said blacklists persist, 99 more worker ministry said. the Colombian government ignored advocates have been assassinated Prior to announcing that talks, protections for workers who want to and employers continue to create the Guatemalan foreign minis- unionise and allowed the rampant obstacles to workers’ right to union- ter called on Belize’s military to use of sub-contractors in violation ize,” Trumka said in a statement. be “less aggressive” in a press of union contracts. He said the US Congress should conference. The complaint said the oil and reject the TPP and “not rely on empty Guatemala has made claims sugar sectors were among the busi- promises that Mexico, Malaysia and over more than half of Belize’s nesses where workers remain Vietnam will eventually protect territory dating back to when oppressed. working people.” its small neighbour was a Brit- “The failure to enforce funda- US Trade Representative Michael ish colony known as British mental labour rights artificially Froman declined to comment on the Honduras. Damage caused by a wildfire that swept through several neighbourhoods in Fort McMurray, Alberta. distorts the cost of labour in the oil specific complaint by the unions. AMERICAS WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 1917

Dominican Capriles urges people to defy emergency President

insists the decree remains in force “it economy is tottering dangerously. Individuals, companies and celebrates is up to us ... to ignore this decree.” Venezuela is in its third year of non-governmental organisations in The decree That stance is likely to pit the recession, brought low by global oil Venezuela with links to foreign groups establishing the state congress not only against the pres- prices that are a third of where they are also to be put under scrutiny and re-election idency, but also the Supreme Court, were when Chavez was in charge and risk having their finances frozen. of emergency came which has final say over the legality spending freely on welfare programs. The decree opens the way to busi- into force for 60 days of the decree. The climbing social and politi- nesses being expropriated if they are Reuters on Monday, after Many of the Supreme Court judges cal tensions are ringing alarm bells not seen to be doing enough to supply were appointed during the reign of beyond the nation’s frontiers. staple foodstuffs. Maduro announced it Maduro’s late predecessor, Hugo The United States has described Company seizures could notably SANTO DOMINGO: President last week. Chavez, and are seen as loyal to the reports of Venezuela’s spiral down- affect the Polar group, Venezuela’s Danilo Medina declared electoral government. The decree establish- wards as “breathtaking.” biggest food and beverage company, victory in the Dominican Repub- ing the state of emergency came into “The conditions for the Vene- which halted beer production on April lic as results showed him ahead force for 60 days on Monday, after zuelan population are terrible,” said 30, saying it had run out of barley. with a huge margin, but the win AFP Maduro announced it last week. a spokesman for the White House in Venezuelan businesses say they was marred by deaths and vio- Its first big test will come today forces broad authorisation to Washington, Josh Earnest. are currently operating at less than lence exacerbated by the slow pace when opposition-led marches are to ignore the most constitutional But with Maduro alleging the US is 45 percent capacity because the gov- of the vote count. take place nationwide demanding safeguards in a bid to keep order. behind much of the volatility, in cahoots ernment will not allow them to buy Medina swayed voters with a CARACAS: Venezuela’s opposition electoral officials validate a referen- Venezuela’s army is notably to with rightwing Venezuelan tycoons, increasingly scarce dollars to pay for- record of surging GDP growth and leader urged his country yesterday dum to oust Maduro. be backed by civilians grouped into Washington is choosing its words care- eign suppliers. Polls suggest seven in social projects that outweighed to defy a state of emergency decreed Similar marches last week were security units to tackle public unrest fully so as not to be seen as meddling. 10 Venezuelans want a change of stubborn poverty, high crime and by the government as it grapples with met by riot police and tear gas. rising amid food shortages. Maduro has ordered military government. accusations of graft in the Carib- an acute political and economic crisis. Venezuela is facing hyperinfla- The text also authorises the state exercises for Saturday to show Ven- But the vote must be held before bean’s largest economy. Henrique Capriles (pictured) tion, food and electricity shortages to do what is necessary to ensure sup- ezuela’s ability to see off foreign January 10, 2017 in order to trigger “We have received the support spoke as the opposition-control- that are sharpening public anger ply of basic foods and services and to “armed intervention.” new elections, and opposition accuses of the majority of the Dominican led Congress prepared to debate the against the unpopular Maduro. counter a crippling energy shortage In his decree, Maduro said the electoral authorities of stalling. If held people,” Medina said in a speech sweeping measures ordered by Pres- But the president controls the that has resulted in electricity ration- security measures will counter any later, a successful recall vote at his campaign headquarters, ident Nicolas Maduro. levers of power. ing. The latest developments threaten “destabilizing actions that mean to would simply transfer power to his thanking the nation for his victory. He said lawmakers will probably And the measures in his decree to deepen the crisis in the oil-rich disrupt life inside the country or its hand-picked vice president, Aristo- Final results were still not out reject it, and that if the government give his government and security South American country, whose international relations.” bulo Isturiz. more than 24 hours after polls closed on Sunday night, a situa- tion electoral authorities blamed for tension between candidates that led to six deaths and unrest Judge backs second US Valour recognised in the provinces. Television in the eastern city of Higuey reported gunfire on Mon- extradition order for Chapo day afternoon and said torched tires were still burning at night. In its latest bulletin, the elec- AFP due to security upgrades at the Alti- toral board said that with votes plano prison, from where Guzman counted at 67 percent of polling had escaped in July 2015 before his stations, Medina had won 62 per- recapture in January. cent of the vote, exceeding the 35 MEXICO CITY: A Mexican judge Refugio has filed two motions for percent of his closest rival, Luis has approved a second US extradi- Guzman to be returned to the Alti- Abinader. He is yet to concede tion request for drug lord Joaquin “El plano, some 90 kilometers (55 miles) defeat. The margin is large enough Chapo” Guzman, officials said, giv- west of Mexico City. to avoid a runoff, a first for Latin ing the government about a month The lawyer says Guzman should America’s fastest growing econ- to confirm the decision. remain close to the courts in Mex- omy, whose luxury beach resorts A Mexico City judge ruled in ico City and nearby Toluca that are and golf courses make it the Car- favour of the request, based on drug reviewing his criminal cases. Ciu- ibbean’s most visited destination. trafficking, money laundering and dad Juarez is nearly 1,800 km away. The weak showing by murder charges lodged in a US fed- The drug lord has also com- Abinader, a businessman, was a eral court in Texas, the Judicial Council plained about his new cell being sign Dominicans were unwilling said in a statement yesterday. dirty. to ditch the president’s record of 7 The foreign ministry said it Refugio said Guzman is iso- percent GDP growth in 2014 and received the judge’s ruling and said lated and complains that his “cell 2015 for untested promises of more it now has 20 working days to decide does not have the best health con- social spending and lower crime. whether to decide whether to extra- ditions. Joaquin has asked that they School building and health dite the Sinaloa drug cartel kingpin. give him products to clean it, such spending has helped cut pov- Guzman’s lawyers would then as chlorine.” erty, which rose to 41 percent in have 30 days to file an appeal. The prison in Ciudad Juarez was the first year of Medina’s term but Earlier this month, a judge ranked last among 20 federal pris- has fallen sharply in the past two endorsed an extradition request ons in a 2015 report by the National years, the World Bank says. based on cocaine charges in Cali- Human Rights Commission, but offi- The remaining six candidates fornia, but the foreign ministry has cials say the jail has since improved US President Barack Obama awards Captain Raymond Bottenfield (left) and Officers Robert Sparks combined had about 3 percent yet to issue a decision on that ruling. and that Guzman is in a maximum- (second right) and Jason Salas of the Santa Monica Police Department the Medal of Valour during a of votes, including the first two Guzman’s lawyer, Jorge Refu- security wing. Last Thursday, ceremony in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, yesterday. women running for the presidency gio Rodriguez, told reporters that authorities transferred 81 inmates in a Dominican election. he would file an appeal if the for- out of the Juarez prison as part of a eign ministry decides to extradite regular rotation of prisoners. his client. Refugio has vowed to But a federal official told report- fight extradition unless US authori- ers that some were moved “to avoid ties negotiate good prison conditions any upheaval” because they are Temer rejects minister’s threat to prosecutors for Guzman. members of a gang opposed to the But a US government official has Sinaloa cartel. said that there would be no deals Guzman’s group fought a ter- made with Guzman and that US rifying turf war for control of drug Reuters of Temer’s new government, told the maintain the tradition of nominat- Party of suspended President Dilma authorities expect the extradition trafficking through Ciudad Juarez in Folha de S.Paulo newspaper in an ing the candidate chosen by the corps Rousseff, who is facing impeachment to happen in several months, or by recent years. He first escaped from interview that the prosecutor general of prosecutors, who have driven sev- proceedings for breaking budgetary the end of the year. prison in 2001. He was detained after of Brazil could be selected at will by eral high-profile graft investigations laws, as well as Temer’s Brazilian Guzman, who has escaped twice a long manhunt in February 2014. SAO PAULO: Brazil’s interim pres- a president. in recent years. Democratic Movement Party. from maximum-security prisons, He escaped from the Altiplano ident, Michel Temer, said he would That would reverse a tradition The term of Brazil’s current pub- Janot recently requested that was unexpectedly transferred on prison in July 2015, when he snuck continue a tradition of nominating of Brazilian presidents nominat- lic prosecutor, Rodrigo Janot, does the Supreme Court allow him to May 7 from a lockup near Mexico out through a 1.5-km tunnel leading a prosecutor general who is recom- ing the candidate who received the not end until September 2017. He investigate Rousseff for allegedly City to a penitentiary in Ciudad Jua- to his cell’s shower. mended by a group of the candidate’s most votes in an internal election has aggressively pursued a massive obstructing Petrobras investigation. rez, at the US border. Guzman was recaptured in Janu- peers, calming fears the position’s conducted by federal prosecutors investigation into a kickback scheme She denies any wrongdoing. His transfer raised speculation ary and sent back to Altiplano, which autonomy would be compromised. themselves. at state-run oil company Petrobras. Temer is not facing an investigation, that his extradition was imminent, is still considered the highest secu- Justice Minister Alexandre de Temer, however, told Globo TV The scandal has ensnared several but he has been cited by a state witness but Mexican authorities said it was rity prison despite his escape. Moraes, sworn in last week as part through a press officer that he would top politicians from both the Workers as taking part in illegal ethanol deals.

Two Boston men jailed for TenderAyyayayayayayayyyy care Trump-inspired hate attack

Reuters Leader was sentenced to 1-1/2 years, undocumented I still would not have the Suffolk County District Attorney’s deserved to be beaten this way,” Rod- Office said in a statement. The pair riguez said in a prepared statement will also be on probation for three read by Assistant District Attorney BOSTON: Two Boston brothers years after their prison sentences end. Nicole Rimar before the sentencing. accused of beating a homeless Mex- The Leaders were arrested on The pair punched and kicked ican man and telling police “Donald Aug. 19 on suspicion of beating Rodriguez, and one of the men Trump was right: All these illegals Rodriguez, then 58, as he slept in a repeatedly struck him with a metal need to be deported,” were sentenced subway station. The men told police pole, before the two walked off to prison the , prosecutors said. they targeted their victim because laughing, prosecutors said. Scott Leader, 38, and Steve they believed he was an illegal According to a police report, Leader, 30, had previously pleaded immigrant. The victim, Guillermo they told officers, “Donald Trump guilty to indictments charging them Rodriguez, said in a statement that was right: All these illegals need to with causing bodily injury while he was in fact a permanent resident. be deported.” committing a civil rights violation, “I came to this country many Prosecutors said Scott Leader told as well as assault and battery with years ago and worked hard in the arresting officers that he believed the Father Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani witnessed last evening the arrival of Fath Al Kheir a dangerous weapon, among other farm fields to provide produce to attack was justified because the vic- charges. people here. I actually became a tim was homeless and Hispanic. The 2 at Katara Cultural village beach. The event was also attended by H H Sheikh Jassem bin Hamad Al Scott Leader was sentenced permanent resident of this coun- pair also allegedly threatened police AThani, staff Representative member maintains of the bonsai Emir. Pic:trees Qassim/The at the National Peninsula Arboretum yesterday in →Washington, See also page DC. 26 to three years in prison and Steve try years ago, although if I had been officers while in custody.

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER Minimum: 28o C Maximum: 40o C

FAJR 03.23 am ZUHR 11.30 am MAGHRIB 06.15 pm HIGH TIDE 01:45 - 16:00 Hazy to misty at places at first with some SHOROOK 04.48 am ASR 02.57 pm ISHA 07.45 pm LOW TIDE 09:00 - 21:30 clouds.

20 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 MORNING BREAK

ONLINE CHART BUST Genes tell how Art on tracks www.thepeninsulaqatar.com the giraffe got MOST READ its long neck

Gunmen attack hospital in NW Reuters 1 Saudi Arabia; 8 injured

HIA customs inspectors foil drug LONDON: Scientists have sequenced the 2 smuggling attempt genome of the giraffe for the first time, uncovering DNA quirks that help explain Mobile phone plays villain: Man divorces how the tallest animals on earth devel- 3 bride hours after marriage oped their remarkably long necks. Being a giraffe is not easy. To pump blood two metres up from the chest to the brain calls for a turbo-charged heart and TWEET OF THE DAY twice the blood pressure of other mammals. Giraffes also need special safety valves to let them bend down for a drink and raise their heads again without fainting. The animals’ unique body configura- tion has long been a puzzle for biologists, including Charles Darwin. Now, by com- paring the genome of the giraffe with its closest relative, the short-necked okapi, A decorated metro train is seen during the presentation in a metro depot in Kiev, Ukraine, yesterday. scientists have unpicked part of the puzzle by pinpointing changes in a small number The train was decorated by Spanish artiste Kenor. of genes responsible both for regulating body shape and circulation. This suggests that the development of a long neck and a powerful heart went hand in hand, driven by a relatively small number of genetic changes. “There are many theories about how the giraffe’s No evidence that genetically neck lengthened but it does seem that the development of the cardiovascular system evolved in parallel with the development INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY of the skeletal system,” said Morris Agaba modified crops unsafe to eat of the African Institute for Science and Technology in Tanzania. He and colleagues published their find- ings in the journal Nature Communications AFP characteristics in maize (corn), shelves, have higher vitamin content The World yesterday. The unravelling of the genetic soybean, and cotton — represent- and be more resilient against com- Staduim factors behind the giraffe’s remarkable car- ing the vast majority of commercial mon diseases. Congress and diovascular system could also be instructive crops to date. But the report pointed out that exhibition for human health, since the animals appear MIAMI: A sweeping review yes- “While recognising the inher- “the only genetically engineered 2016 held at to avoid the kind of organ damage often terday of decades of research on ent difficulty of detecting subtle or characteristics that have been put WestIn Hotel. found in people with high blood pressure. genetically modified crops found no long-term effects on health or the into widespread commercial use are Photo by @ Baher_Amin The more fundamental question of evidence that they are unsafe to eat, environment, the study committee those that allow a crop to withstand why giraffes evolved their long necks but warned that evolving resistance found no substantiated evidence of the application of a herbicide or to be remains open, however. could be a serious problem. a difference in risks to human health toxic to insect pests.” The findings issued by the US between current commercially avail- For this reason, the commit- National Academies of Science able genetically engineered (GE) crops tee “avoided sweeping, generalized examined two decades of research and conventionally bred crops, nor did statements about the benefits and on genetically engineered (GE) crops, it find conclusive cause-and-effect evi- risks of GE crops,” said the report. It Training body to burn fat, not store it as they are also known, and called for dence of environmental problems from found no association “between any regulators to take a closer look at the the GE crops,” said the report. disease or chronic conditions and the final product of a new plant variety, “New plant varieties that have consumption of GE foods.” rather than the process used to breed intended or unintended novel char- On the other hand, the report IANS 'browning' of fat cells. The principal indications, since excess energy in or engineer it. acteristics that may present potential pointed to some evidence that insect- role of brown fat is to burn energy to the body is not stored in fat tissue but “We dug deeply into the litera- hazards should undergo safety testing resistant biotech crops have boosted produce heat, which helps keep our is burned in brown or beige fat tis- ture to take a fresh look at the data on — regardless of whether they were human health by cutting back on body temperature constant. White fat sue," said the study's senior author GE and conventionally bred crops,” developed using genetic engineering insecticide poisonings. Researchers TORONTO: Researchers have uncov- serves as an energy-storage tissue. Arnim Pause, professor at McGill Uni- said committee chair Fred Gould, co- or conventional breeding techniques.” found that crops that are insect- ered a new molecular mechanism for Scientists recently discovered a versity in Montreal, Canada. director of the Genetic Engineering The report found that “evolved resistant or herbicide-resistant did stimulating the body to burn fat — new type of fat tissue with charac- The research could open the way and Society Centre at North Carolina resistance to current GE character- not reduce the overall diversity of a discovery that could lead to new teristics somewhere between healthy for new medications to be developed State University. istics in crops is a major agricultural plant and insect life on farms. medications to fight obesity, diabe- brown fat and the not-so-healthy that will stimulate the 'browning' Gould acknowledged that the problem,” including both insect and Even some instances of genes tes and heart diseases. white kind. The so-called beige fat process. wealth of data and opinions on the weed resistance. It cited “many loca- transferring from an engineered By knocking out the gene that is capable of behaving like brown fat "One implication (of the study) controversial matter “had created tions” in which weeds have evolved crop to a wild relative species have produces a protein, known as fol- in response to certain stimuli such as is that a drug could be developed to a confusing landscape” and that resistance to glyphosate, the her- not “demonstrated an adverse envi- liculin, in fat cells in mice, the exposure to cold. stimulate the activity of beige/brown the new report aimed to offer an bicide to which most biotech crops ronmental effect,” said the report. researchers triggered a series of bio- "Conversion from white fat cells fat cells and thus help manage obes- unbiased review of the evidence. were engineered to be resistant. “Overall, the committee found no molecular signals that switched the to beige or brown fat cells is a very ity and other metabolic disorders," The committee looked at almost Biologists have used genetic engi- conclusive evidence of cause-and- cells from storing fat to burning it. desirable effect in the obesity, dia- Vincent Giguere from the University 900 research and other publica- neering since the 1980s to produce effect relationships between GE crops This process is known as the betes, and metabolic syndrome in Montreal noted. tions on genetically engineered fruit that can live longer on store and environmental problems.” Out of this world: ‘Moon and Mars veggies’ grow in Dutch greenhouse

AFP to see if plants would actually grow in it, Wamelink growing very fast and very good. They even started said. Of course, getting real lunar and Martian pot- to flower, something that we never anticipated,” ting soil is an impossible ask. But an Internet search Wamelink said. The 50-day experiment was written revealed an unlikely supplier: Nasa. up in the science journal PLOS One in August 2014. WAGENINGEN: Establishing a human colony on The US space agency makes ground similar to An essential question however remains whether the Moon and travelling to Mars has been the stuff that on the Moon from sand found in an Arizona these unusual vegetables are safe to eat. Martian of dreams since the dawn of the space age. desert, while Mars’ crimson “soil” is scooped from a and lunar soil, including Nasa’s own imitation, may But these visions face many hurdles. How can volcano in Hawaii, Wamelink said. The first exper- contain heavy metals that are harmless to plants humans survive for months or years in the ultra- iments started in 2013 after Wageningen received but could prove deadly to humans. Wamelink has hostile environment of space? What, for instance, an order of 100kg of Nasa’s imitation “space soil” come up with a possible solution. If analyses show will they eat? Agricultural researchers at a Dutch — at a hefty price of €2,000 ($2,285). that the vegetables contain arsenic, mercury or iron university say they are taking the first steps towards Wamelink stuck tomatoes, peas, cress and other making them unfit for human consumption, the soil providing an answer. plants in pots containing the simulated soil... and can be purified by growing other plant species such They are growing vegetables in soils similar crossed his fingers. To work in this soil “was very as violets which absorb the poisons. to those found on the Moon and Mars, looking for special. Nobody, not even Nasa, could tell us what Wamelink concedes that the experiment has ways of helping space pioneers grow their own would happen,” even just by simply adding water, a drawback — it is being conducted in non-sterile crops. “When people go to the Moon and Mars he said. The imitation ground at first was a little conditions on Earth where only the nutrient quality they also have to eat, and it’s easiest for them to “reluctant” to absorb water, but soon turned out to of the soil is being assessed. Extremely cold tem- grow their own food,” said Wieger Wamelink, be good potting soil. Like the actor Matt Damon in peratures — dropping to minus 62 degrees Celsius surrounded by several dozen plants in a special the science fiction movie The Martian, Wamelink (minus 79 Fahrenheit) on Mars — as well as a lack greenhouse at Wageningen, an agricultural uni- watched with amazement as his “space veggies” of oxygen means that lunar or Martian vegetables Researcher Wieger Wamelink inspects the plants grown in Mars and versity in central Netherlands. grew bigger day-by-day. and fruit could only be grown in a closed and con- moon soil simulant in a research facility at the University of Wageningen. “We wanted to use real Martian and lunar soil,” “Especially in the Martian soil, plants were trolled environment. www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

PAGE | 22 QE 10,010.67 +14.22 PTS PAGE | 24 QFB to explore DOW 17,498.17 -212.54 PTS IMF: Iran must Saudi reform FTSE100 6,167.77 +16.37 PTS fix own banks opportunities BRENT $48.10 +$0.38 to win business

WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 • 11 SHA’BAAN 1437 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar

Gold down after Ezdan’s $500m debut Sukuk a huge hit US data Reuters

Dr Khalid bin Thani bin Abdullah programme. It was concluded after an LONDON: Gold edged lower yes- The transaction Al Thani, Chairman of Ezdan Hold- extensive investor roadshow in Hong terday, after better-than-expected ing Group stated that “the coverage Kong, Singapore, the UAE and Lon- US data and gains in European attracted an order- amount has almost doubled than the don, United Kingdom. stock markets which reduced the book up to $837m, offered in a record time, which is an Jan- Willem Sudmann, Group appeal of the precious metal often indication that Ezdan Holding Group Head of International Banking Group, perceived as a refuge from riskier with 71 investors is a trustworthy and reliable entity in Mashreqbank psc said “I wish to con- assets. Spot gold fell 0.1 percent to participating. the world of finance. Additionally, this gratulate the management team at $1,272.31 per ounce by 1340 GMT, would boost our strategy to reinforce Ezdan for taking a giant step in success- while U.S. gold futures were also the Group’s investments domestically fully closing its debut sukuk issuance. down 0.1 percent at $1,273.40. and globally over the next few years.” Mashreq played a pivotal role in lead- “There is a little profit taking in The Peninsula Sheikh Dr Khalid added that the ing Ezdan to the door-steps of capital gold because the shares market is process of Sukuk issue is regarded one markets, as the global coordinator and higher,” Societe Generale analyst of the means Ezdan Holding Group JLM & Bookrunner. Mashreq’s long and Robin Bhar said. DOHA: Ezdan Holding Group Q.S.C. used as a remarkable transaction in mutually rewarding relationship with European shares hit a two- has priced its inaugural Sukuk trans- the debt capital markets worldwide, Ezdan continues, having partnered with week high yesterday, bolstered by action in the debt capital markets aiming at expanding our investments them on several capital raising deals mining firms which tracked a rally with a very successful $500m 5-year and stimulating the Group’s invest- over the recent past. We are confident in industrial metals, while the dol- Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Thani bin Ali Mohammed Al Obaidli Sukuk issue. The transaction attracted ments and their returns. the Ezdan shall continue to deliver upon lar was down 0.1 percent against an order-book up to $837m, with 71 Ali Mohammed Al Obaidli, Group Abdullah Al Thani its promising outlook”. a basket of six major currencies. investors participating. CEO of Ezdan Holding said, “We are a highly successful result that further strengths of the Qatar market as it Khalid Al-Subeai, Group CEO, A weaker US currency makes Investors from the Middle East very pleased at the excellent mar- confirms the credibility of Ezdan and further attracts opportunities for Barwa Bank, said: “This is a landmark dollar-denominated gold cheaper took 68 percent of the issuance, with ket reception to Ezdan’s pioneering the investors’ confidence in the prom- international investors. transaction for a leading Qatari name for holders of other currencies, European investors subscribing for Sukuk issue. The highly successful ising outlook for the Group.” Abdelaal added: “As one of the and successfully closing it within a while strong stock markets 21 percent and Asian investors tak- offering demonstrates the confidence Ahmed Abdelaal, Regional Head joint Lead Managers and Bookrunners volatile period for the capital mar- reduce gold’s attraction as a safe ing 11 percent. In terms of distribution which international investors place in of Client Coverage, HSBC MENA, for the Sukuk, this transaction show- kets is a tribute to the quality of the haven. by investor type, banks took 47 per- the Group and confirms the access to added: “HSBC is delighted to support cases HSBC’s capabilities in growing Issuer. The Ezdan Management team US regulatory filings on Mon- cent of the issue amount, followed by funding which our institution enjoys the inaugural $ 500 million 5-year large local businesses as they explore have shown great vision over the past day showed some influential fund managers with 27 percent, pri- from the Islamic Finance Market. Inves- Sukuk transaction. It is a tremen- international financing solutions.” few years in diversifying Ezdan’s investors, including billionaire fin- vate banks with 19 percent and other tors’ strong interest resulted in the order dous accomplishment for the Group, The transaction, which funding sources, with this Sukuk issu- ancier George Soros, bought into institutional investors with 7 percent. book reaching to $ 837 million, around and marks another milestone in the announced on 3 May 2016, is the ance’s success being testament to that gold through exchange-traded Commenting on the deal, Sheikh 1.67 times of the offer amount. This is journey of Ezdan. It also plays to the first milestone in Ezdan’s $2bn Sukuk strategy”. funds in the first quarter. QC reviews cooperation with Turkey and Russia

The Peninsula Turkic-Speaking states, noting that the time is convenient for promoting these ties, particularly in light of the construction leap in Qatar and the DOHA: Qatar Chamber (QC) dis- ongoing megaprojects as the coun- cussed ways of enhancing mutual try prepares for hosting the 2022 cooperation between business own- World Cup. ers in Qatar, Turkey and Russia, in In the other meeting, the QC two separate meetings held yester- vice chairman discussed invest- day with delegations from Turkey ment opportunities in Russia and and Russia, reported QNA. fields that Qatari business owners QC Vice Chairman Mohamed bin can invest in as well as the invest- Ahmed bin Tawar, in a meeting with ment atmosphere in both countries. Turki Mohamed Al Khater, Chairman, UDC, with other Board members at the meeting of shareholders. Turkish delegation, stressed on the The meeting also reviewed the strength of ties between Qatar and activities of some Russian firms Turkey. that work in Qatar and are keen on UDC approves rise in non-Qatari ownership He also welcomed the grow- promoting cooperation ties with ing cooperation between Qatari Qatari businesses in all fields, par- businessmen and their counter- ticularly in the sectors of services parts in the Cooperation Council of and industry. By Mohammad Shoeb approved the amendment of the well-positioned to benefit from these current percentage of non-Qatari The Peninsula company’s Articles of Association to amendments as a unique and attrac- ownership of UDC shares, Al Oth- comply with the Commercial Com- tive destination for foreign investors man said: “The percentage of panies Law No. (11) 2015, and the and retailers looking to maximize non-Qatari shareholding is cur- Corporate Governance Code No. their returns and diversify their rently less than 20 percent, but I am Oil heads back towards $50 DOHA: The shareholders of United (4) 2014, and to authorize the Com- investment portfolios”, he said. optimistic that with the increased Development Company (UDC) gave pany’s Chairman to approve the “The decision is going to encour- cap, the percentage will increase their nod to the Board of Directors’ amendments. age more foreign investors to come significantly as there is no prob- AFP Monday’s close. WTI for delivery in recommendation to increase the non- UDC is a leading Qatari share- and participate in buying the shares lem of liquidity in the market.” June climbed 42 cents at $48.14 a Qatari ownership in the company’s holding company and the master of UDC. This is happening in case of He noted that the performance barrel. shares up to 49 percent from the ear- developer of The Pearl-Qatar, an other companies and UDC is no dif- of shares of any companies is also in “A break above $50 in the next lier ceiling of 25 percent. artificial island spanning nearly four ferent”, Ibrahim Al Othman, President a way reflection of the economy. “So LONDON: World crude prices hit few days is very possible,” said BMI The Company held an Extraor- million square metres. It is the first and CEO of UDC told this newspaper far the performance of UDC shares fresh 2016 highs yesterday, head- Research oil and gas analyst Peter dinary General Assembly Meeting land in Qatar to be available for free- on the sidelines of the meeting. was reasonable, and we are expect- ing back toward $50 a barrel in the Lee. “In the second half of the year, yesterday, which was presided over hold ownership by foreign nationals. He added: “UDC has always been ing that the prices will increase by process, as advancing wildfires in oil is likely to hold between $45 to by Turki Mohamed Al Khater, Chair- Al Khater said that the amend- at the forefront of economically sus- the end of this year as we at the Canada triggered more evacuations $50 a barrel,” he said. man, UDC, to discuss the decision and ments are expected to contribute tainable projects, and the amendment Company are working according to from the country’s oil sands region. Prices are winning support other agenda of the meeting. to Qatar’s economic diversification made to the Articles of Association our plans taking into consideration Brent oil reached $49.58 a bar- from supply disruptions caused The decision to increase the non- programme while enhancing UDC’s further promotes efficiency and the prevailing market conditions for rel -- the highest point since early by wildfires in major crude pro- Qatari ownership up to 49 percent strategic economic standing and corporate governance which in better results.” November. US benchmark West Texas ducer Canada, as well as owing to instead of 25 percent is according growth by developing the business turn serve to fulfill the economic The Company last month reported Intermediate (WTI) struck $48.42, a armed attacks against oil facili- to law No. (09), 2000 regulating the environment in order to promote for- requirements needed to achieve the a net profit of QR271m for the first peak last reached in mid-October. ties in Nigeria. Wildfires continued investment of non-Qatari capital in eign investment in the State. Company’s developmental objectives quarter of 2016 (Q1 2016). Net profit Later around 1640 GMT, Brent their devastating advance yestetday, the economic activity. “In the same breadth, UDC’s flag- in the long term.” attributable to owners of the com- North Sea for delivery in July stood leading authorities to order more The UDC shareholders also ship development, The Pearl-Qatar is Asked about the liquidity and pany stood at QR259m. at $49.22, up 25 cents compared with evacuations in Canada’s oil sands. 22 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 BUSINESS

Sheikh Dr Khalid Vodafone Qatar steps down as Vodafone Qatar records QR2.1bn chairman annual revenue The Peninsula DOHA: Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Thani bin Abdullah Al Thani has decided to step down from his role operations, collectively leading to as the Chairman and the Board a reduction in earnings. In light of member of Vodafone Qatar. Vodafone Qatar’s these results, the Company has per- The decision to quit the posi- mobile customer formed a review of its cost base to tions is due to his other work ensure we sustain our margins in the commitments, Vodafone Qatar base increased 7 future. As a result, we recently took said yesterday. percent to 1,548,000 the difficult decision to reduce our Rashid Fahad Al-Naimi has in March 2016, from workforce by approximately 10% and been appointed as acting Chair- write-off various non-performing man of the Company and will a year ago. assets. Unfortunately, the Company serve for the remaining term of is not in a position to recommend a the current Board, pending the dividend for the fiscal year.” appointment of a new Board at Despite the difficult trading con- the Company’s Annual General The Peninsula ditions, Vodafone Qatar has taken Assembly. Sheikh Fahad bin Mohammad bin Jabor Al Thani, Chairman, Doha Bank, cutting a ribbon to mark the opening important steps to strengthen its Rashid Fahad-Al Naimi operations and network infra- of the bank’s Al Gharafa branch in the presence of Ahmed Abdul Rahman Yousuf Obaidan Fakhroo, Vice- said “The Board is thankful for DOHA: Vodafone Qatar recorded structure to adapt to the developing Chairman, Dr R Seetharaman, Group Chief Executive Officer, and other officials, yesterday. Sheikh Dr Khalid’s leadership a total revenue of QR 2.1bn for the market and be better positioned to Pic: Kammutty VP/The Peninsula over the past three years as twelve months ended March 2016, deliver long term returns. We remain the Company has continued to down eight percent compared to confident in the potential of the grow. We understand and sup- the same period last year. The tel- Qatari telecommunications market, port his decision to step down ecom company reported a net loss investing QR 396m during the year Doha Bank opens new due to his other work commit- of QR466m for the year delivering a to enhance our network infrastruc- ments and wish him well in his loss per share of QR0.55. The oper- ture and expand coverage, he said. future endeavours”. ator made a net loss of QR180m Over the last two years, the branch in Al Gharafa in the three months to March 31, company has delivered a compre- representing a loss per share of hensive network modernization QR0.21. program, spending nearly QR 1bn in The Peninsula Bank, including the DBank Mobile services,” said Sheikh Fahad bin Bahrain expects Vodafone Qatar’s mobile cus- total. Today, Vodafone Qatar’s net- service and Apple Watch banking, Mohammad bin Jabor Al Thani. tomer base increased 7 percent to work is stronger than ever and has in line with its endeavor to provide “Gharafa is a centre of many GDP to grow by 1,548,000 in March 2016, from a year achieved “Best in Test” in a techni- an Omni-channel customer experi- ongoing development projects, ago. Mobile average revenue per user cal audit conducted by a third party DOHA: Doha Bank yesterday offi- ence designed to provide access to which will reflect positively on the 2.9% in 2016 (ARPU) stood at QR 107;a 13 percent in April 2016 endorsing our first-rate cially inaugurated its new branch Doha Bank services globally around performance of the banking indus- year-on year reduction. network performance in Qatar. Sim- in Al Gharafa that will serve both the clock. try in Qatar in general and of Doha Rashid Fahad Al-Naimi, the ilar efforts are underway to deliver a corporate and retail banking cus- The inauguration ceremony was Bank in particular. Doha Bank is MANAMA: Bahrain’s Economic newly-appointed acting Chair- matching superior customer expe- tomers. presided Sheikh Fahad bin Moham- keen on building a strategic network Development Board (EDB) expects man of the Company commented: rience. We look to the future with The spacious branch will offer a mad bin Jabor Al Thani, Chairman across Qatar considering the banking the country’s Gross Domestic Prod- “The past year has been difficult confidence and optimism that the full spectrum of banking solutions, of the Board of Doha Bank along needs of customers within the scope uct (GDP) to grow by 2,9 % in 2016. for the Company with the impact of market is showing signs of recov- including account services, corpo- with members of the Doha Bank’s of the changing market dynamics,” EDB Chief Economic was quoted structural changes in our industry, ery. We believe the Company now rate banking services and exclusive executive team led by CEO Dr R he added. by BNA Dr. Jarmo Kotilaine as tell- namely the increasing use of data at possesses the necessary quality financial solutions to high net worth Seetharaman and other senior bank The branch will remain open six ing reporters that the forecast rate the expense of international voice infrastructure, clear direction, and customers, in a soothing lounge envi- officials. days a week, from 7:30 am to 1 pm will enable Bahrain to maintain traffic, and sustained price compe- experienced leadership to deliver ronment that caters to their need for “On behalf of myself and the from Saturday to Thursday, and will the same rate of economic growth tition, particularly in the prepaid value for our shareholders. privacy. members of the Board of Direc- offer loans, deposits and a range of which was achieved last year. He market, severely impacting our rev- The company is focused on its In addition, customers banking tors (BOD), I would like to thank our specialized services covering per- said that the non-oil sector growth enue performance. Meanwhile, our mission to deliver innovative prod- at the new branch will have access customers for their confidence in us sonal banking, corporate banking, reached 3.9%, a figure that reflects cost base has increased in line with ucts and services and exceptional to a comprehensive range of digital in improving their financial well- investment banking, asset manage- the resilience of structural growth the growing scale of our business customer experience. banking solutions offered by Doha being through various products and ment, and much more. drivers in the economy. TYREPLUS opens two outlets in Qatar Qatar First Bank to explore Saudi reform opportunities The Peninsula lubricants, batteries, and braking customers in the country. Our part- systems under one roof for customer nership with Michelin reflects joint convenience. efforts to connect with consumers The Peninsula Speaking about the inauguration and provide them with international DOHA: Michelin, the world’s lead- Daoud Helmi, Michelin AIM FZE, said: standard products and services.” ing tyre technology leader, yesterday “We are delighted to bring TYREPLUS Michelin, the leading tyre com- inaugurated two state-of-the-art con- outlets to the State of Qatar. Qatar is pany, is dedicated to sustainably DOHA: Qatar First Bank L.L.C. (QFB), cept TYREPLUS stores in Qatar. The an important market for us and the improving the mobility of goods and a leading Shari’ah-compliant bank inauguration was attended by Raffi opening of these two outlets is in people by manufacturing and mar- based in Qatar offering investment Keuylian, General Manager of Nasser line with our strategy to expand and keting tyres for every type of vehicle, opportunities and innovative finan- Bin Khaled & Sons Retail Division and strengthen our presence in the region. including airplanes, automobiles, cial solutions with local, regional and Bipin Balakrishman, Michelin Divi- TYREPLUS has a wide customer base bicycles/motorcycles, earthmovers, international reach, welcomed the sion Manager of Nasser Bin Khaled & in the GCC and vehicle owners in farm equipment and trucks. It also Saudi Arabia 2030 vision announced Sons Tyre Division, along with other Qatar can now rely on TYREPLUS for offers electronic mobility support by Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Crown meet the aspirations of our sharehold- esteemed guests. all their tyre and vehicle maintenance services on ViaMichelin.com and Prince Mohammad bin Salman Al ers and clients in Saudi Arabia.” TYREPLUS is a global retail brand needs. Both these state-of-the-art publishes travel guides, hotel and Saud. Al Marri also expressed the and has become the largest car main- concept stores will aim at meeting the restaurant guides, maps and road Abdulla bin Fahad bin Ghorab bank’s willingness to explore a tenance network worldwide. The increasing demand for high quality atlases. AlMarri (pictured), Chairman of presence in Saudi Arabia in light of company presently has 64 branches service levels in the country.” Headquartered in Clermont-Fer- QFB noted that Saudi Arabia’s 2030 the new Vision in order to provide in Saudi Arabia and 46 branches in Commenting on the event, Raffi rand, France, Michelin is present in vision is considered the roadmap innovative financial solutions and other GCC countries. Keuylian (pictured) of Nasser bin more than 170 countries, has 111,200 to the Kingdom’s development over investment opportunities to share- The newly inaugurated stores Khaled & Sons said, “We have been employees and operates 67 produc- the next 15 years. This new and bold holders and clients. are located at Al Wakra and Al Michelin’s partner for over 35 years tion plants in 17 different countries. strategy will enable the country to QFB successfully listed all its Gharafa. Along with fully equipped and we are proud to bring these The Group has a Technology Center attract foreign investments from the shares on the QSE on April27, 2016, workshops for all tyre and vehicle two brand new TYREPLUS stores to in charge of research and develop- regional headquarters for Africa, GCC, neighboring, and global players following its 7-year operational services, the showrooms offer a Qatar. These two outlets will pro- ment with operations in Europe, India, and the Middle East is based to enter the Saudi market. journey. QFB’s listing represents wide variety of major tyre brands, vide an unmatched experience to our North America and Asia. The Michelin in Dubai, UAE. Al Marri said:“The 2030 vision another milestone in the Bank’s seeks to build a prosperous economy quest to grow, expand its offer- and a dynamic society and establish ings and provide a ‘Signature of an ambitious nation that explores the Excellence’ to its clients. With a great human and financial potential of clear strategy, highly experienced Panasonic showcases strength in visual solutions the Kingdom. What was announced by team, and solid shareholder base Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Crown Prince, in the GCC region, QFB strives to Mohammed bin Salman, incentivized maintain its role as a trusted advi- whoever shares this aspiring vision”. Al sor for high-net-worth individuals, The Peninsula of the benefits. visual solutions for the upcoming region, we are hopeful that our cus- Marri added:“QFB sits at the forefront corporate and institutional clients Qatar’s successful 2022 world cup mega projects, Panasonic Market- tomers can embrace future in exciting of these ambitious drives, and we will and a gateway to business oppor- bid will likely accelerate large-scale ing Middle East & Africa showcased forms.” accelerate the execution of our business tunities in Qatar, the region and infrastructure projects, industrial its latest solutions in categories Abdulla Alansari – Execu- plans in the kingdom with the aim to global markets. DOHA: Panasonic Marketing Mid- conventions, aviation and hospitality like Professional Display, Projec- tive Director, Techno Q stated, dle East and Africa in collaboration projects and much more. Simultane- tors, HDVC, Security and Pro-AV “The uprising of visual technol- with TechnoQ, in Qatar organized ously, development and expansion solutions. ogy is opening doors for education a two-day seminar to showcase of Qatar’s education system has Yasuo Yamasaki – Director, Sys- authorities to engage students into Gulf Bank Q1 profit slips 10% its strength in visual solutions for also become one of the corner- tem Solutions and Communications innovative learning and reach- various booming industries in the stones of the National Vision 2030. Division, PMMAF said: “Panasonic’s ing them through the high-speed country. The seminar addressed The government of Qatar has iden- premium Japanese quality solutions communications networks that patrons from the education sector tified education as key to meeting are the game-changers of technology. connect students both in and out Reuters the year-earlier period, a bourse fil- and consultants. this target and has been working to The broad line-up of our products in of the classroom. Panasonic has ing said. It attributed the net profit GCC’s audio visual market has increase the number of universities the visual solutions category will introduced these exceptionally out- fall to a 14 percent increase in provi- turned into one of the world’s fastest and schools in the country, empha- serve as the custom-built solutions for standing solutions that will enhance DUBAI: Gulf Bank, Kuwait’s fourth- sions and impairment losses, without growth rates and this shift is being sizing on equipping them with the the booming industries of Qatar. Our not just the learning experience but largest lender by assets, reported a elaborating. led by rising demand for products, latest technology and renewed focus awe-inspiring solutions have changed teaching as well.” 10 percent fall in first-quarter net Meanwhile the subscription equipment and services for GCC meg- on upgrading research and innova- the landscape for many industries “Speaking of the mega projects profit, as provisions and impairment period for National Bank of Kuwait’s aprojects and events such as the 2022 tion abilities. all over the world and will similarly in Qatar, we believe that Panasonic’s losses for bad loans rose. proposed capital increase will com- FIFA World Cup in Qatar and Dubai In line with the country’s vision empower industries in Qatar for solutions are the best way to prepare Net profit for the three months to mence on Wednesday, the Gulf Expo 2020, with the hospitality and to boost the Education sector and to marching towards the future. Given ourselves to welcome the biggest of Mar. 31 was 8.77m dinars ($29.09m), state’s largest commercial lender retail sectors expected to reap most meet the surging demands of hi-tech the changing market dynamics in the world events.” compared to 9.78 million dinars in said in a bourse statement. BUSINESS WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 23 Asia remains Qatar’s top trading partner in Q1

accounting for 9.1 percent of Qatar’s Qatar’s total exports (including exports exports, while Chemicals and related exports and 14.9 percent of imports, of domestic goods and re-exports) product the remaining 13 percent, of The European Union according to the ‘Quarterly Bulletin amounted to QR50.5bn, showing a which manufactured goods classi- was in the second on Qatar Foreign Merchandise Trade decrease of QR27.3bn or 35.1 percent fied chiefly by material for 3 percent Statistics, Q1 2016’, released yesterday. compared to total exports of QR77.7bn of total exports, and the remaining 5 place with 11.4 In Asia, Japan was the major des- in the same quarter last year. percent corresponded to other goods. percent of Qatar’s tination of the exports with QR9.9bn The year on year (Y-o-Y) decline The value of Qatar’s imports in Q1 exports and 27.5 (a share of 19.7 percent of Qatar’s total in exports was mainly due to lower 2016 was QR31.1bn, showing increase exports), followed by South Korea exports of Mineral fuels, lubricants of QR1.8bn or 6.1 percent compared percent of imports. with QR8bn (15.8 percent), and India and related materials by QR27.5bn, to imports of QR29.3bn in the same with QR7.1bn (14 percent). Machinery and transport equip- quarter last year. China was the principal origin of ment by QR1bn and Manufactured The Y-o-Y increase in imports the imports with QR3.1bn (10.1 per- goods classified chiefly by mate- reflected increase mainly in miscel- By Sachin Kumar cent of Qatar’s imports), followed by rial by QR1bn. Within Mineral fuels, laneous manufactured articles by The Peninsula Japan with QR2.4bn (7.6 percent) and lubricants and related materials, QR1.8bn, Machinery and transport India with QR1.1bn (3.6 percent). The fall was recorded in Natural gas by equipment by QR1bn and Food and foreign merchandise trade balance QR18, Liquefied propane and butane live animals QR0.1bn. Decline was DOHA: Asia maintained its position as with this economic area amounted to by QR4.9bn, Petroleum crude oils by recorded in Crude Materials, Inedible, the top destination of Qatar’s exports QR26.6bn while the total trade (exports QR3.5bn and Petroleum oils other Except Fuels, QR1bn, and Manufac- and imports, having a share of 73.1 plus imports) amounted to QR47.2bn. than crude by QR1.1bn. Among Man- tured goods classified chiefly by percent and 33.0 percent respectively, Qatar’s Foreign Merchandise ufactured goods classified chiefly by material, QR0.4bn. during first quarter of 2016 (Q1 2016). Trade Balance in Q1 2016 recorded material decline was seen in Non-fer- During the quarter, machinery The European Union was in the sec- a trade balance surplus (difference rous metals by QR0.4bn and Iron and and transport equipment accounted ond place with 11.4 percent of Qatar’s between total exports and imports) steel by QR0.2bn. for 45 percent of the imports, man- exports and 27.5 percent of imports. of QR19.3bn, down from QR48.4bn in In the first quarter, mineral ufactured goods classified chiefly Food and live animals 9 percent, corresponded to other sections such The Gulf Cooperation Coun- Q1 of 2015. fuels, lubricants and related materi- by material 15 percent, Miscellane- Chemicals and related products 8 as Beverages and tobacco and crude cil (GCC) occupied the third place During first quarter, the value of als accounted for 79 percent of total ous manufactured articles 17 percent, percent, and the remaining 6 percent materials. Al Mana Exchange opens outlet in Al Muntazah ICC Qatar to organise its first banking workshop The Peninsula

The Peninsula in this domain.” “Trade Finance is no longer DOHA: Al Mana Exchange, a a simple process of document 100% subsidiary of Almana examination and handling,and it Group, has relocated to a new DOHA: The International Cham- is paramount for banks and trade branch in the bustling Al Munta- ber of Commerce Qatar (ICC Qatar) finance operators to keep up with zah area in Doha. yesterday announced it will organ- the fast evolution of this subject” he Group Finance Director Tariq ise its first banking workshop titled added. Almana announced the official “Documentary Credits in Today’s The workshop will look back opening of the Al Muntazah branch Challenging Environment by Gary at the past 12-18 months to high- yesterday before a number of VIP Collyer” on May 23 at the Grand light the issues, actions and clientele and special guests. Hyatt Hotel in Doha. decisions that have occurred in “We are very pleased to The two-day event is organised that time, and will examine best inform our clients about our new under the patronage of Sheikh Khal- practices that should be adopted location in Muntazah. We plan ifa bin Jassim Al Thani, Chairman of when issuing, advising, confirm- to offer the best services to the Qatar Chamber and ICC Qatar. The ing, amending, presenting and resident community and visiting event is sponsored by QNB as stra- examining documents, as well as tourists. An extensive network of tegic sponsor and Ahli Bank as gold honouring or refusing documents. correspondents around the globe sponsor. Ahmed Al Sheeb, Chairman provides safe and secure remit- Sheikh Khalifa said: “Interna- ICC Qatar banking commission, tance services to the public,” tional trade is constantly evolving said that QNB is committed to Almana said. and the framework of rules must sponsoring important events He added: “The entire opera- keep track, adjusting to chang- of this nature, which showcase tion from front office to back office ing conditions and meeting new best international practice and Chief Executive Officer of Al Mana Group, Srinivas Vemparala (third left), along with other senior officials of is fully-computerised to maintain requirements. Our ICC Qatar contribute positively to the devel- smooth, speedy, and accurate cus- Al Mana Exchange, Umesh Iddya (second left), Deputy General Manager, and Anand P Jakati (fourth left), Banking Commission is currently opment of the economy. tomer services.” Senior Manager, cutting a cake after the inauguration of the Al Muntazah branch of the exchange yesterday. working close to the ICC Inter- The topics chosen for discussions Almana Exchange’s Al Munta- Also seen are Chaouki Younes, Group HR Manager, Al Mana; Rita Mezher, Corporate Communication Manager, national Secretariat to overhaul are all in line with the requirements zah branch is located at Shop No Al Mana Motors; and U K Razdan, Finance Officer, Al Mana. Pic: Salim M/The Peninsula the rules in a number of different to assist in the realisation of the 8, Building No 15, Zone 24, Street fields, such as international stand- Qatar National Vision 2030, which No 830, Hiteen, Rowdat Al Khail wholly-owned and managed by Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of foreign currency drafts, effect speed ard banking practice, and we felt it aligns with QNB Group’s vision that Muntazah. Almana Group in Qatar, and is Economy and Commerce to execute remit transfers, and to buy and sell was important to bring to Doha a aims at building a knowledge based Almana Exchange is authorised by the Qatar Central Bank, foreign exchange transactions, issue currencies. workshop to share the best practice society”. ibq official wins Best Chinese bank buys precious Private Banker award metals vault in London The Peninsula innovative product solutions for HNWI and UHNWI for which ibq has AFP received various international and prestigious accolades for its excep- DOHA: Chaouki Daher, General tional Private Banking services from Manager and Head of Private Bank- Euromoney, International Banker LONDON: China’s biggest bank ing at the International Bank of Qatar and Banker Middle East. ICBC has become the country’s (ibq), has won the ‘Private Banker of “It is an honour to be selected first lender to buy a precious met- the Year 2016” award at The Banker for this award out of many senior als vault in Britain, cementing its Middle East Industry Awards cere- executives from around the region, role as a major player in the gold mony. and it is even a greater honor to be market. Chaouki is responsible for part of ibq. This is recognition of ICBC has bought the London The Chairman of the upcoming Tawar Mall, Jassim bin Jabr Sultan Tawar Al Kuwari (second left), addressing the private banking division and our full value chain and I would vault, used to store also silver, plat- wealth management and have been like to dedicate this award to the the media yesterday. Also seen are (from left) Khaled Al Samaraie, Owner’s Representative, Pedro Ribeiro, inum and palladium, from British instrumental in the growth and prof- ibq family including our custom- General Manager, and Andrea Gellei, Marketing Director. Pic: Salim M/The Peninsula bank Barclays, which is exiting itability of the division during his ers” said ibq’s General Manager and the precious metals business as time as head. He has helped intro- Head of Private Banking, Chaouki it looks to streamline operations duce a range of new services and Daher after recent turbulence across the Tawar Mall to launch Souq in its premises group. Jon Spall, founder of con- sultants G Cubed Metals, said The Peninsula music water fountain, the internal them. The mall has a whole selec- yesterday that ICBC’s purchase of fountain, the boutique hotel of 122 tion of fashion, sports, gadgets and a vault able to store 2,000 tonnes rooms and the Souq are some of the department stores with big family of gold showed Chinese “commit- main attractions that will make this entertainment area (Kaboom), fine ment to the international bullion DOHA: Tawar Mall will be the first mall so unique in its concept, not to dining restaurants, hypermarket market by becoming a market mall in Qatar that includes a traditional mention its prime location and the (Spar) and a 12-screned cinema, all maker”. Souq in its premises, the company easy accessibility, the company said. under one roof. According to ICBC, the vault is officials said yesterday. This unprece- Tawar Mall brings a new philoso- The whole complex of Tawar Mall one of the largest in Europe and is dented area embraces local traditions phy to the market and goes far beyond is built on 300,958 square meters of used to store precious metals “in through a varied range of small shops the shopping experience. It is promot- land, and consists of 4 floors plus 2 support of the London Market”. built to showcase a real Souq. ing a convenient shopping experience basement level car parking with easy Mark Buncombe, head of com- The upcoming shopping mall with through the new open spaces with nat- access. The modern stylish archi- modities at the Asian bank, said more than 312 shops and restaurants ural light and quiet enjoyment with the tecture is built in a strategic area in in a statement that the purchase will offer the public a unique oppor- entertainment areas. In addition, the Al Duhail. The luxury interiors and for an undisclosed sum would help tunity to buy cosmopolitan brands mall features 59 new concepts and the avant-garde design are an invi- ICBC “to become one of the larg- that will broaden the retail landscape some flagship stores that for the first tation to stay for any visitor. Tawar est Chinese banks in the precious of Doha, thus bringing new concepts time, will be announced in a mall in Mall will be the point of reference in metals market”. to the region, while supporting the Qatar, including an official Real Madrid Doha by combining its own different Many Chinese banks are look- local traditions at the same time. The store, Högl, Buono Chocolates, Lovely style and an attractive value propo- ing to diversify their operations Chaouki Daher receiving the award. wide corridors with natural light, the Lace Baby, Salamander, Roman, Lamar sition of fashion, entertainment and outside the country to become panoramic restaurant, the external or Mavi units just to mention a few of commerce. global players. 24 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 BUSINESS

Japan and China to slow down London office IMF: Iran must rents to rise more slowly: Land Securities

fix own banks Reuters to win business LONDON: Land Securities Group Plc, Britain’s largest listed property developer, expects London office rents to rise, albeit at a slower rate than the last two years, its chief The best thing the executive said, as the amount of empty space across the capital government and increases. banks can do is to The property firm does not intend to build speculatively as reassure foreign occupier demand is not rising partners and banks fast enough to match the huge amount of new space coming onto that Iran’s banks are the market, Chief Executive Rob- safe to deal with, ert Noel said. says David Lipton. “We’re entering into an era of above-average development A worker cleans the exterior of a building in central Beijing yesterday. China and Japan’s economies completions with no above-aver- are expected to slow sharply over the next two years but Asian growth will remain strong as domestic age demand, so the balance will Bloomberg give adequate assurances to foreign demand takes up the slack from weak global trade, the IMF has said. move back towards the occupier,” banks wanting to do business with Noel said yesterday. his country, the state-run Islamic “Vacancy is at or around all- TEHRAN: Iran must tackle problems Republic News Agency reported. time lows, but it has just started in its banking system and bolster The nuclear deal didn’t fully to pick up.” anti-money laundering and ter- repair a US-Iran relationship rup- The company’s views were rorism-financing laws if it wants to tured by the seizure of the American Indian consumers most confident: Nielsen predicated on Britain sticking reconnect to the global economy, a embassy in Tehran in 1979. US pen- with the EU, as a Brexit would senior International Monetary Fund alties for trading with Iran related hurt occupier demand and could official said. to its missile tests and support for IANS index measures perceptions of local inclusive growth was being reflected reduce commitments around new “The best thing the government groups including Hezbollah and job prospects, personal finances in an improvement in various macr- constructions particularly in Lon- can do, and the banks can do, is to Hamas, which Israel, the US and and immediate spending intentions, oeconomic indicators. don, the builder warned. bring those standards up to inter- the European Union consider ter- while all three confidence indicators “The government seems to be on Land Securities, along with national levels and try to reassure rorist organizations, remain in place. NEW DELHI: Indian consumers increased from the previous quar- its way to achieving its objectives of rival British Land Company Plc, foreign partners, banks and other- “Lenders here have to acknowl- were the most confident in the world ter in India low inflation, low interest rates and was one of the first to build spec- wise that Iran’s banks are safe to edge that foreign banks will make in the first quarter of 2016 as their However, more than half of high Gross Domestic Product growth ulatively after the 2008 financial deal with,” David Lipton (pictured) decisions based on their assessments confidence index touched a nine-year urban India (53 percent) still feel -- a scenario optimal for improved crash, betting by restarting con- said in an interview in Tehran yes- of risk management,” Lipton said in high during this period, American that the economy is in recession at consumer spending,” he added. struction of its famed “Walkie terday. Managing Director Christine the interview. performance management company the moment, Nielsen said adding “this Nielsen surveyed more than Talkie” skyscraper in 2010 that Lagarde’s deputy at the Washing- Iran’s economy will grow 4 per- Nielsen said. is 3 percent more than what it was in 30,000 online consumers in 63 coun- the London office market would ton-based lender, Lipton is the first cent in the 12 months to March 2017 Nielsen said this finding was the previous quarter”. tries in the Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin face a shortage of space. IMF senior management official to and slow to 3.7 percent the following based on its latest ‘Global Survey of In the survey, carried out in America, the Middle East, Africa and The building is today fully let. visit Iran since the 1979 revolution, year, Lipton said in his speech. He Consumer Confidence and Spend- March, 83 percent of urban Indian North America. The developer still has according to the Islamic Republic’s praised officials for tackling infla- ing Intentions’. respondents indicated the highest “Overall, global consumer con- 500,000 square feet left to let central bank. tion, but said more must be done to The consumer confidence index level of optimism globally on job fidence remained stable in the first from construction it did as part of Though most sanctions were address other issues including the score for India increased three points prospects -- up by three index points quarter and below the optimism its speculative build programme lifted following Iran’s nuclear deal ratio of non-performing loans. Ira- in the quarter to 134, the highest for since the fourth quarter of 2015. On baseline score of 100, edging up one started in 2013. with world powers, European lend- nian banks have the third-highest it since 2007 and comes after three the state of personal finances, 85 per- index point to 98. The score reflected “We believe Land Securities ers have said doing business is risky proportion in the Middle East after consecutive quarters at 131, Nielsen cent Indian respondents described mixed confidence levels in every has one of the best management while other US trade restrictions Libya and Yemen, IMF data show. said in a statement released here on the situation as good or excellent. region,” Nielsen said. teams in the sector, who are rightly remain in place. Shortly after Lip- The banking sector “needs to be Tuesday. In Asia, India was followed Nielsen India managing direc- While the US score jumped 10 de-risking the portfolio as the ton gave a speech at the central in a position to support enterprises by the Philippines with a score of 119 tor Roosevelt D’Souza said the points to 110, China (105), Germany cycle matures to maximise long- bank, Foreign Minister Mohammad that are most profitable and produc- and Indonesia with 117. government’s commitment to fis- and UK (97) and Japan (73) showed term value creation,” Liberum Javad Zarif again called on the US to tive,” Lipton said in the interview. The Nielsen consumer confidence cal consolidation, sustained and declines over the previous quarter. analysts wrote in a note.

Saudi Electricity Growth in wearables HP plans 3-D printers to starts up Jeddah South shake up manufacturing power plant Bloomberg on business customers with servers, Reuters storage and services. The three- dimensional printers will begin to be delivered in late 2016 and may NEW YORK: HP Inc., which helped help the company in the future as it AL KHOBAR, SAUDI ARABIA: define printing technology for paper, seeks to reverse a trend of declin- State-controlled Saudi Electricity Co is turning to the industry’s next ing sales amid sagging demand for (SEC) has started up part of its new generation: producing three-dimen- paper-based documents. 2,640 megawatt (MW) Jeddah South sional objects. “It’s an incredibly important power plant and linked it to the grid, The company is introducing two part of our strategy,” Weisler said. the company said yesterday. 3-D printers aimed at manufactur- “These are designed for real com- The project will help meet ing customers looking for efficient mercial applications.” growing electricity demand from ways to make items without tradi- About half of the custom parts the western region particularly for tional tools, Chief Executive Officer inside the new printers are made infrastructure projects in the holy Dion Weisler said. HP is work- by the printers themselves, Weisler cities of Mecca and Medina where ing with businesses such as BMW said. The cost of one of the printer large numbers of Muslim pilgrims AG, Siemens AG and Nike Inc. as models starts at about $130,000, spend the fasting month of Ram- co-developers of the technology, he said. adan which starts in June this year. reflecting the company’s open “HP really realized now was the “After three-and-a-half years of approach to building the new prod- time to get involved and take advan- continuous work; Saudi Electricity ucts, he said. tage of this growing industry,” said Co has successfully operated and Visitors look at wearables near the FitBit booth at the CES 2016 Consumer Electronics Show in Las HP, which sells printers and Joe Kempton, an analyst at Canalys. linked the first steam unit to the Vegas, Nevada. The market for connected wearable devices jumped in early 2016, led by fitness computers, is investing in new indus- “It’s hugely important for HP to prove electricity grid with a capacity of tracker maker Fitbit, while Chinese group Xiaomi raced past Apple to second place, a survey showed tries as it looks for ways to drive themselves as a dynamic company, 660 MW,” SEC said. yesterday. Global sales of wearables -- a broad category that includes fitness bands, smartwatches growth after splitting last year from as an innovative company, who are When the 11.9bn riyal ($3.12bn) and connected clothing, shoes and health gadgets -- rose 67.2 percent in the first quarter this year. its corporate sibling, which focuses really disrupting the market.” project was announced in 2012, SEC said it was using super criti- cal boilers for the first time in the kingdom, allowing the plant to reach up to 40 percent efficiency Investors ‘lining up’ to finance Dell’s $67bn acquisition of EMC in fuel consumption. South Korea’s Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) built the plant while Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Bloomberg Dell’s bond sale may be the larg- Maryland, which has about $12bn of becomes more attractive.” notes in the high-yield market, Industries (MHI) supplied the est since Anheuser-Busch InBev NV assets under management Creditsights Inc. analysts led according to S&P. equipment. In the statement SEC sold $46bn of bonds in January to The longest part of the offering, by Erin Lyons rated the offering The deal is expected to price this did not say when the plant would finance its takeover of SABMiller Plc., debt maturing in 30 years, is being the equivalent of a buy in a note on week. Bank of America Corp., Bar- hit full capacity. NEW YORK: Investors are lining up and may launch as early as Tuesday, marketed at a yield of 6.25 percentage Monday, saying the bonds offer “com- clays Plc, Citigroup Inc., Credit Suisse Saudi burns a significant to finance Dell’s $67bn acquisition of said the person. The offering comes points above similar-maturity Treas- pelling value” compared to the debt of Group AG, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. amount of its crude oil for power EMC, with the computer maker poised on the heels of the busiest week for uries, said another person familiar peers including HP Inc. and Hewlett and JPMorgan Chase & Co. are man- generation particularly during to boost its offering for what’s likely bond sales by blue-chip companies with the matter. That’s three times Packard Enterprise Co. aging the sale. peak summer demand. However, to be the year’s second-biggest cor- in the USand Europe since January. more than the average spread on all “We think investors will be willing Investors have been on the look- SEC expects the more efficient porate bond sale. Top-rated issuers sold about $74bn US corporate bonds of similar ratings to overlook the credit concerns given out for a host of debt offerings from plant to burn much less fuel oil per The company received more than in the five-day period ending May and maturities, according to Bank of the attractive yield, secured nature of Dell since the company said in Octo- unit of electricity produced. $60bn of orders on Monday for a deal 13, according to data compiled by America Merrill Lynch data. the bonds, and coupon steps,” they ber that banks had committed $49.5 Deputy Oil Minister Prince that initially aimed to sell $16bn, Bloomberg. A proposed 10-year note may wrote. “We sense investors have made billion of financing for the takeover. In Abdulaziz Bin Salman said in Feb- according to a person with knowl- While Dell’s proposed notes have yield 4.75 percentage points above room in their portfolios, expecting April, the computer maker was close ruary Saudi energy consumption edge of the matter. Dell is weighing been given the lowest investment- government debt, said the person. meaningful concessions.” to placing a senior portion of the debt was expected to grow by 4-5 per- whether to increase the amount of grade rating, the yields offered may That’s a premium of almost 2 per- Moody’s Investors Service financing -- $11bn of term loans that cent annually in the next few years, debt it’s raising in the investment- entice investors who typically buy centage points over comparable debt. assigned a Baa3 rating to the bonds were up-sized by $1bn -- through a reaching double its current level grade bond market, said the person, higher-rated junk bonds, said Mat- “You can capture some high- last week. S&P Global Ratings graded syndicate of 24 banks, a person with by 2030 if no efficiency measures asking not to be named because the thew Duch, a money manager at yield interest at these levels,” Duch the debt an equivalent BBB-. Dell also knowledge of the matter said at the are taken. discussions are private. Calvert Investments in Bethesda, said. “There’s no doubt that it plans to sell $3.25bn of unsecured time. BUSINESS WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 25 US consumer prices post largest gain in three years

Federal Reserve ammunition to raise Economists polled by Reuters had prices of non-energy imports.” 778,000-unit pace. gasoline prices jumped 8.1 percent last interest rates later this year. forecast the CPI gaining 0.3 percent Financial markets have almost Single-family starts in the South, month, the largest gain since August Petrol and rents rose, Other data yesterday showed last month and advancing 1.1 percent priced out a rate hike before Sep- where most home building takes 2012, adding to March’s 2.2 percent pointing to a steady housing starts rose more than from a year ago. tember, given sluggish growth at the place, jumped 9.0 percent to their increase. Food prices rose 0.2 per- expected last month, with builders The so-called core CPI, which beginning of the year. highest level since December 2007. cent after falling 0.2 percent in March. inflation build-up ramping up the construction of single strips out food and energy costs, rose The US central bank lifted its Housing starts for the volatile multi- The core CPI was lifted by hous- that could give Fed and multi-family homes, suggesting 0.2 percent after climbing 0.1 percent benchmark overnight interest rate in family segment soared 13.9 percent ing and medical costs, as well as ammunition to raise the economy was regaining steam in March. In the 12 months through December for the first time in nearly a to a 394,000-unit pace. transportation services. Owners’ early in the second quarter. April, the core CPI increased 2.1 per- decade and policymakers have fore- Building permits rose 3.6 percent equivalent rent of primary residence rates later this year. The Labour Department said its cent after increasing 2.2 percent in cast two more increases this year. to a 1.12 million-unit rate last month. rose 0.3 percent after increasing 0.2 Consumer Price Index increased 0.4 March. The Fed has a 2 percent The dollar rose to a session high While the data on April housing percent in March. percent last month, the largest gain inflation target and tracks an against the euro after the data, while starts added to strong retail sales Medical care costs picked up, since February 2013, after rising 0.1 inflation measure which is cur- US Treasury debt prices fell. numbers in suggesting that economic rising 0.3 percent after gaining 0.1 Reuters percent in March. rently at 1.6 percent. In a separate report, the Com- growth regained steam early in the percent in March. Prescription drugs That took the year-on-year The rise in prices in April is likely merce Department said housing starts second quarter, a slowdown in pay- shot up 0.7 percent and the cost increase in the CPI to 1.1 percent from to be welcomed by Fed officials who increased 6.6 percent to a seasonally rolls gains last month and a recent of hospital services increased 0.3 WASHINGTON: US consumer prices 0.9 percent in March. last month softened their language adjusted annual pace of 1.17 million spike in new applications for unem- percent. recorded their biggest increase in Americans also paid more for on inflation at the end of a regular units last month. ployment benefits have raised some But apparel prices fell for a second more than three years in April as pet- medical care, food, recreation, meeting, noting that it continued to Starts for single-family homes, concerns about the labour market’s straight month as did the cost of used rol and rents rose, pointing to a steady tobacco, motor vehicle insurance, run below target because of “earlier the largest segment of the mar- health. cars and trucks. Prices for new motor inflation build-up that could give the airline fares and grooming. declines in energy prices and falling ket, increased 3.3 percent to a The inflation report showed vehicles fell 0.3 percent.

Work begins on ECB’s bond-buying Greek leg of scheme faces Trans-Adriatic gas pipeline lawsuit in Germany Reuters

AFP the Constitutional Court to block the programme in Germany. THESSALONIKI, GREECE: Greece The ECB’s policy measures so far yesterday launched construction -- cuts in interest rates, ultra-cheap on a 550km section of the Trans- FRANKFURT: A group of German lending schemes for banks and most Adriatic Pipeline, with Prime businessmen and academics are recently the QE programme -- have Minister Alexis Tsipras eager for taking the European Central Bank failed to kick-start inflation in the the 8,000 jobs for the country’s to court over its controversial bond- euro area, which the central bank crisis-hit economy. buying programme, their lawyer said estimates needs to stand at just Planned to operate from yesterday. under 2.0 percent to encourage 2019, the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline A complaint against the ECB’s healthy economic growth. (TAP) will bring gas from the vast corporate sector purchase pro- In April, the bloc’s inflation was Azerbaijani Shah Deniz 2 field via gramme was filed at Germany’s negative, standing at minus 0.2 western Turkey to Greece, Alba- highest court, the Constitutional percent. nia and across the Adriatic to Italy. Court, on May 12, a court spokes- “There is total despair in the ECB TAP is 870 kilometres long, man said. leadership that none of the measures Venezuela’s Economy Vice-President Miguel Perez gestures during an interview in Caracas, Venezuela, running from Komotini in north- The business leaders argued that implemented so far are working,” yesterday. eastern Greece to Puglia, Italy. the central bank was “going beyond Kerber said. It will cover 215km across its mandate” in purchasing corpo- It is not the first time that the Albania, 105km under the Adriatic rate bonds as part of its programme ECB has been taken to court in Ger- and a final eight kilometres in Italy. of so-called quantitative easing, or many over its monetary policies. Better oil-for-loans agreement Tsipras said the pipeline would QE, and “needs to be urgently legally A group of eurosceptics filed a usher Greece and Europe into ring-fenced.” suit against another debt purchase a “new era.” “TAP is one of the In the face of the failure so far programme known as Outright Mon- reached with China: Venezuela greatest direct foreign investment by a raft of ECB policy measures etary Transactions (OMT) that was projects carried out in Greece,” in recent years to drive up infla- set up in 2012, but has ultimately Tsipras said at the ceremony held tion in the single currency area, the never been used. in Thessaloniki. central bank announced in March The constitutional court Reuters oil revenue. “Today we can say that Chinese Foreign Ministry spokes- For crisis-hit Greece, it means that it would extend its sovereign referred that particular case to the we’ve agreed to new commercial man Hong Lei told a regular press an investment of over $1.7bn and bond-buying programme to include European Court of Justice, which conditions that are adapted to the briefing yesterday that both sides 8,000 jobs, the premier said. corporate sector bonds. subsequently ruled that the pro- country’s reality,” Perez said in an “agreed to add more flexibility to “The Greek economy really But in doing so, the ECB has “def- gramme was in line with the ECB’s CARACAS: Venezuela has reached a interview in his office at the Indus- strengthen financing cooperation”, needs these jobs,” he added. initely given up its mask of monetary mandate. deal with its main financier China to try Ministry, which he also heads. He but he did not give details. The 53,000 pipes used to build policy,” its lawyer Markus Kerber But the constitutional court improve the conditions of an oil-for- declined to elaborate. Perez said the improved China it weigh the equivalent of 72 Eif- told AFP. in Karlsruhe has yet to issue its loans deal, giving the Opec member’s Better terms with China would deal, as well as a steep cut to imports fel Towers, according to officials. “Through the massive purchase own definitive ruling on the OMT crisis-hit economy “oxygen” ahead be hugely useful for Venezuela, and a new, weaker foreign exchange It will have an annual capacity of corporate bonds, countries with scheme. of heavy debt payments, its top eco- given that low oil prices mean the rate, would help Venezuela crawl out of 10 million cubic metres, meeting high debt level and deficits in com- The European Central Bank has nomic official has said. South American country would be of a “very complicated” semester. the needs of some seven million petitiveness such as Italy, Spain and become too powerful, but largely Venezuelan Economy Vice- required to send more barrels to meet The economy was likely to households. France are supposed to improve because politicians have foisted an President Miguel Perez said that its obligations. remain in recession until the end of “Once complete, TAP will be a the financing conditions of public increasingly political role onto it, all conditions, including loan time Oil is trading at nearly $50, about 2017, he added. major asset in the European energy companies. one of the German government’s frames, investment amounts and half the levels in mid-2014, although Venezuela’s struggling state- security tool box,” said European “The criteria of the selection of key economic advisors had said in non-financial aspects, had been prices have risen almost 80 percent led economic model and the fall Union Vice-President Maros Sef- those companies remain uncer- a newspaper interview on Sunday. improved. this year. in oil prices have triggered severe covic, who was also present at the tain. The ECB has opened a new “The ECB has gained enormous China has lent some $50bn to “This will give the country impor- shortages of food and medicine, ceremony. phase of a direct transfer policy power, even though it is not answer- Venezuela in that arrangement over tant oxygen to go forward,” added triple-digit annual inflation, and a “By opening up access to gas bringing unforeseeable risks for able to any parliamentary control. I the last decade, and markets are Perez, a former industry associa- slowdown in local business activity. from Azerbaijan, TAP will allow Germany and the other hard cur- take a critical view of this,” Isabel watching to see if Beijing will help tion leader who became economy Maduro blames an “economic many countries, including in rency countries of the eurozone,” Schnabel told the Sunday news- President Nicolas Maduro’s social- czar in February, replacing a hard- war” launched by right-wing busi- Central and South East Europe to Kerber argued. paper Frankfurter Allgemeine ist government as it struggles with line socialist who lasted only a month nessmen and opposition politicians diversify their sources of gas,” he The complaint therefore asked Sonntagszeitung. recession, shortages and reduced in office. seeking to sabotage him. said. Japan might struggle to overcome G7 rift on yen and fiscal policy

Reuters prospects of an agreement beyond Washington think tank for interna- Treasury report including it in a new reiterating the importance for tional economics. currency watch list did not constrain exchange-rate stability. While no communique will be its currency policy. Aso has repeat- There is also no consensus on how released, Japanese Finance Minister edly threatened to intervene to stem TOKYO: A weekend gathering of much fiscal stimulus the global econ- Taro Aso hopes to lay the grounds for yen rises. G7 finance leaders may expose a omy needs with Germany resisting a G7 leaders’ summit to be held next “The United States will proba- rift on issues ranging from currency calls from Japan and the United States week, where measures to address bly keep emphasising that countries and fiscal policies within the close- for bigger spending. stagnant global growth will be high shouldn’t resort to competitive cur- knit group of advanced economies, Japanese policymakers are tam- on the agenda. rency devaluations, while Japan will dashing Japan’s hopes of mustering a ing market expectations, saying Tokyo For Japan’s currency mandarins, argue that excess volatility is undesir- coordinated policy response to spur never intended the G7 nations to agree the top priority in Sendai is to garner able,” said a G7 source familiar with global growth. on joint fiscal action it sees as only a G7 agreement on the importance the negotiations. US Treasury Secretary Jack Lew, possible in times of crises such as the of “exchange-rate stability,” officials “But no country, including the Federal Reserve Chairman Janet collapse of Lehman Brothers in 2008. with knowledge of the negotiations United States, will disagree strongly Yellen and European Central Bank The G7 will likely settle with say. that exchange-rate stability is impor- President Mario Draghi will be among a vague agreement on the need to That will give Tokyo justification tant,” he said. Group of Seven finance leaders gath- deploy a “balanced” dose of monetary, to intervene in the currency mar- Japan had hoped to garner a G7 ering in Sendai, northern Japan on fiscal and structural policies, officials ket if it considers any yen gains as agreement on the need to ramp up fis- May 20-21. involved in the negotiations say. excessive. cal spending but has received a cool Japan has failed to bridge dif- The result could be another meet- It may also be the most the G7 response from Germany, which insists ferences with the United States on ing in which officials claim progress nations can agree on given differences on fiscal discipline. the yen, with Washington dismiss- in pushing an agenda of structural between Tokyo and Washington on If the G7 nations share their con- ing Tokyo’s concerns that recent yen reforms, rather than concrete steps what is defined as excessively vola- A worker walks in a construction site in Tokyo, Japan, yesterday. cerns over weak global growth, rises are excessive and instead push- to avoid a global recession. tile yen moves. however, premier Shinzo Abe may use ing for agreements against currency “It’s just a way to say you did Lew said on Friday his views have “orderly” despite a rising yen. domestic demand and pursuing struc- it to justify delaying a sales tax hike market interventions. something when you did very lit- not changed on Japan’s currency pol- He also said Japan has relied tural reforms. and deploy fiscal stimulus to resus- The rift may be evident at the tle,” said Tamim Bayoumi, a visiting icies since a G20 meeting in April, too heavily on monetary policy and Japan insists that recent yen gains citate Japan’s fragile recovery, some weekend G7 meeting, diminishing fellow at the Peterson Institute, a when he told Aso that markets were needed to focus more on boosting have been speculative and that a US analysts say. 26 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 BUSINESS

QE INDICES SUMMARY QATAR STOCK EXCHANGE QE Index 10,010.67 0.14 % QE Total Return Index 16,196.6 0.14 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 3,918.66 0.22 % QE All Share Index 2,793.11 0.27 % QE All Share Banks & Financial Services 2,678.77 0.37 % QE All Share Industrials 3,123.96 0.54 % QE All Share Transportation 2,516.02 0.07 % QE All Share Real Estate 2,489.71 0.12 % QE All Share Insurance 4,268.18 1.37 % QE All Share Telecoms 1,126.61 2.39 % QE All Share Consumer Goods & Services 6,604.42 0.40 %

QE MARKET SUMMARY COMPARISON 17-05-2016 Today 16-05-2016 Previous day Index 10,010.67 9,996.45 Change 14.22 46.08 % 0.14 0.46 YTD% 4.01 4.15 Volume 9,962,354 7,471,610 Value (QAR) 324,706,094.38 246,348,308.74 Trades 5,548 4,759 Up 21 | Down 15 | Unchanged 05

WORLD STOCK INDICES Index Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low All Ordinaries 5458.469 38.123 0.7 5483.7 4762.1 Cac 40 Index/D 4307.96 -4.32 -0.1 4607.69 3892.46 Dj Indu Average 17710.71 175.39 1 18351.4 15370.3 Hang Seng Inde/D 20118.8 234.85 1.18 21794.84 18278.8 Iseq Overall/D 6186.18 27.31 0.44 6791.68 5611.89 Karachi 100 In/D 36137.12 11.75 0.03 36448.43 29785 Nikkei 225 Index 16652.8 186.4 1.13 18951.12 14865.77 S&P 500 Index/D 0 0 0 2134.72 1810.1

EXCHANGE RATE Currency Buying Selling US$ QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 UK QR 5.2396 QR 5.3138 INTERNATIONAL MARKETS - A LIST OF SHARES FROM THE WORLD Euro QR 4.0968 QR 4.1544 COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME CA$ QR 2.7902 QR 2.8490 NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED Swiss Fr QR 3.6969 QR 3.7491 Yen QR 0.0332 QR 0.0338 A C C-A/D 1448.35 -8.1 6004 Escorts Fin-B/D 4.24 0.09 3729 Kakatiya Cem-B/D 532.5 23.8 33128 Til Ltd.-T/D 301.7 13.9 5485 Aus$ QR 2.6331 QR 2.6860 Aarti Drugs-B/D 465 2.7 3471 Escorts-A/D 178.7 4.3 350002 Kalpat Power-B/D 216.9 -0.1 2834 Timexgroup-T/D 34 -0.05 7621 Ind Re QR 0.0540 QR 0.0551 Aban Offs-A/D 212.6 1.2 642252 Eveready Indu-/D 235.1 -3.25 26720 Kalyani Stel-T/D 160.3 4 55246 Tinplate-B/D 71.2 3.15 315166 Pak Re QR 0.0345 QR 0.0352 Aegis Logis-B/D 112.95 -2.6 75995 F D C-B/D 180.5 -0.35 3518 Kanoria Chem-B/D 70.8 -1.4 43561 Ucal Fuel-B/D 112.8 -2 7273 Alembic-B/D 35.65 -0.3 30935 Federal Bank-A/D 50.7 -0.15 390522 Kg Denim-B/D 97.45 -5.3 91390 Ucal Fuel-B/D 112.8 -2 7273 Peso QR 0.0777 QR 0.0792 Alok Indus-A/D 3.92 0 349929 Ferro Alloys-B/D 4.8 0.05 9111 Kopran-B/D 51.6 -0.05 38339 Ultramarine-B/D 125.3 2.4 3917 SL Re QR 0.0245 QR 0.0253 Apollo Tyre-A/D 153.6 -3.45 147841 Finolex-A/D 395 -3.45 11711 Lloyd Metal-B/D 25.6 0 4984 Unitech P -A/D 4.07 0.06 7362232 Taka QR 0.0458 QR 0.0468 Asahi I Glass-/D 148.75 -1.4 9199 Gail-A/D 382.05 4.4 66455 Lok.Hous&Con-B/D 5.32 -0.03 24138 Uppergsugar-T/D 200.8 7.6 92438 Nep Re QR 0.0337 QR 0.0344 Ashok Leyland-/D 102.75 -0.7 494945 Gammon India-T/D 11.7 0.26 69100 Lumax Ind-B/D 530.5 -10.5 4894 LONDON SA Rand QR 0.2308 QR 0.2355 Ballarpur In-B/D 17 0.25 267219 Gangotri Tex-B/D 1.69 0.05 8026 Lupin-A/D 1613.35 9.25 40415 Banaras Bead-B/D 46.85 -0.95 2178 Garden P -B/D 26.15 -0.2 1205 Lyka Labs-T/D 73.75 0.7 24637 3I Group/D 483.2 2 269705 Bannari Aman-B/D 1847.25 45.75 1083 Godfrey Phil-B/D 896.25 67.3 94846 Mah.Seamless-B/D 200.5 -7.1 16877 Assoc.Br.Foods/D 3033 -18 248209 GOLD AND SILVER Bata India-A/D 588.6 3.6 86476 Goodricke-B/D 175.5 0.1 9349 Mangalam Cem-B/D 258.1 1.7 18038 Barclays/D 163.25 -0.25 12965334 Beml Ltd-A/D 903.05 0.35 12174 Goodyear I -B/D 508 5.25 8179 Mastek-B/D 142.4 -1 14727 Bp/D 365.15 -0.85 10967477 GOLD QR149.5268 per gramme Bh Electronic-/D 1133.3 -0.4 17966 Hcl Infosys-B/D 40.7 0.6 416766 Max Financial-/D 376.1 -5.9 1214 Brit Am Tobacc/D 4213 -22 560732 SILVER QR2.0075 per gramme Bhansali Eng-T/D 20.6 -0.2 51519 Him.Fut.Comm-T/D 16.6 0.05 705575 Mrpl-A/D 67.85 -0.4 96197 Bt Group/D 443.75 5.9 9577144 Bharat Bijle-B/D 914.25 12.25 22852 Himat Seide-B/D 230.75 -1.4 42543 Nagreeka Ex-B/D 27.8 0 2421 Centrica/D 202.2 0.7 5074424 Bhartiya Int-B/D 527 -5 5514 Hind Motors-T/D 5.04 -0.03 23711 Nagreeka Ex-B/D 27.8 0 2421 Gkn/D 277.6 -1.8 3352232 Bhel-A/D 121.2 -0.35 604816 Hind Org Chem-/D 16.5 0 2230 Nahar Spg.-B/D 114.3 1.1 12274 Hsbc Holdings/D 432.65 3.85 12191097 Bom.Burmah-B/D 422.05 6.9 30874 Hind Unilever-/D 834.8 -11.65 57989 Nation Alum -A/D 42.05 0.25 32441 Kingfisher/D 362 4.4 991455 Oil aids most Gulf Bombay Dyeing-/D 47.15 0.4 46998 Hind.Petrol-A/D 842.95 7.1 88253 Navneet Edu-B/D 89.85 1.55 34518 Land Secs Grou/D 1174 35 1119990 Camph.& All-B/D 583.5 -4.75 2028 Hindalco-A/D 89.15 -0.65 805839 Nepc India-T/D 1.42 0.06 16115 Legal & Genera/D 220.2 3.4 8910577 Canfin Homes-B/D 1219 1.15 5101 Hous Dev Fin-A/D 1216.25 28.95 113154 Neuland Lab-B/D 785.5 76.75 29579 Lloyds Bnk Grp/D 67.32 0.65 56402560 bourses; Egypt lifted Caprihans-Xc/D 94.9 1.9 3287 I F C I-A/D 24.25 -0.05 467757 Nrb Bearings-B/D 120.2 4.2 6950 Marks & Sp./D 430.8 5.5 1348418 Castrol India-/D 396.55 -18.7 129983 Idbi-A/D 64.6 0.85 371542 O N G C-A/D 210.35 7.55 572290 Next/D 5382.5 30 181787 by foreign funds Century Enka-B/D 211.7 -2.1 8961 India Cement-A/D 89.25 0.25 176818 Ocl India-B/D 522 -11.8 1842 Pearson/D 813.5 9.5 660335 Century Text-A/D 614.2 0.7 72418 India Glycol-B/D 88.3 0.95 10011 Oil Country-B/D 30.65 1.1 23526 Prudential/D 1295.5 17.5 1366780 Chambal Fert-B/D 66.9 0.4 80201 Indian Hotel-A/D 115.45 -0.15 132884 Onward Tech-B/D 73 -3 3983 Rank Group/D 248 2.6 14563 Reuters Chowgule St-T/D 17.2 -0.3 1325 Indo-Tcount-T/D 914.4 -8.35 17182 Orchid Pharm-B/D 39.75 0.1 73377 Rentokil Initi/D 177.4 1.4 944581 Cimmco-B/D 72.5 0.25 5527 Indusind-A/D 1079 -1.8 57215 Orient Hotel-T/D 22.85 0.95 57625 Rolls Royce Pl/D 666 3 1205914 Cipla-A/D 524.65 1.2 64774 J.B.Chemical-B/D 262.9 -1.1 6410 Orient.Carb.-T/D 471.2 -16.3 1653 Rsa Insrance G/D 476.2 3.1 360831 DUBAI: Shares in most Gulf bourses were firm yester- City Union Bk-/D 97 0.7 11091 Jagson Phar-B/D 36.75 0.5 15893 Orient.Carb.-T/D 471.2 -16.3 1653 Sainsbury(J)/D 254.4337 -1.9 1085158 day as oil prices held near this year’s highs, while Egypt’s Colgate-A/D 828.7 2.9 30949 Jamnaauto-B/D 145.2 -1.1 42594 Oudh Sugar-B/D 94.1 -4.75 119431 Schroders/D 2512 9 109466 stock index climbed as international funds flowed back Container Cor-/D 1372 2.2 3875 Jbf Indu-B/D 216.45 -1.4 8010 Patspin India-/D 9.02 0.2 2337 Severn Trent/D 2240 9 171300 into the market. Saudi petrochemical shares were strong Dai-Tichi Kar-/D 394 -2.8 2374 Jct Elect P -B/D 0.28 -0.01 128935 Punjab Chem.-B/D 173 5 4787 Smith&Nephew/D 1158 5 677566 with the sub-index rising 1.3 percent, its fifth straight Dcm Shram Ind-/D 140 -2.8 3405 Jct Ltd-B/D 4.73 0.35 3552387 Radico Khait-B/D 88.65 1.25 33721 Smiths Group/D 1100 20 291082 session of gains. The main stock index rose 0.6 per- Dhampur Sugar-/D 88.3 -2.75 83938 Jenson&Nich.-B/D 8.4 -0.2 87157 Rallis India-A/D 209.85 5.7 42922 Standrd Chart /D 510.3 3.3 2862939 cent. Etihad Etisalat (Mobily) jumped 4.6 percent after Dr. Reddy-A/D 3014.85 10.6 11965 Jik Indust-B/D 0.77 0.03 21062 Rallis India-A/D 209.85 5.7 42922 Tate & Lyle/D 614.5 0 257550 it said lenders who had not already agreed in Decem- E I H-B/D 112.55 4.8 48573 Jindal Drill-B/D 172.5 -3 10715 Reliance Indus/D 412.3 3.3 63646 Tesco/D 165.6 -1.1 11668660 ber to waive breaches in loan terms had now done so. E.I.D Parry-A/D 238.1 2.9 302964 Jktyre&Ind-A/D 85.7 1.65 402444 Ruchi Soya-B/D 23.2 -0.1 39997 Unilever/D 3141.5 -21.5 656565 Najran Cement climbed 2.1 percent after it announced Eicher Motor-A/D 18611.35 -455.8 4695 Jmc Projects-T/D 285 8.1 11845 S Bk Bikaner-B/D 508.95 20.6 63393 United Util Gr/D 955.7607 3.5 322263 its board had approved the creation of a new mining com- Electrosteel-B/D 18.4 -0.1 45612 Kabra Extr-B/D 94.25 -3.5 3643 Saur.Cem-B/D 61.55 -0.3 41018 Vodafone Group/D228.85 5.2 39378420 pany, although it still needs approval from authorities. Emco-B/D 25.25 -0.4 12759 Kajaria Cer-A/D 1064 3.65 1780 Thirumalai-B/D 258 -4.7 29502 Whitbread/D 4004 69 263690 It did not give details, but developing the mining indus- try is a major plank of Saudi Arabia’s economic reform plan. In Cairo, the main index jumped 1.9 percent on the heaviest volume for almost four weeks as international funds bought Egyptian shares, bourse data showed. Commercial International Bank, Egypt’s largest listed lender, rose 1.6 percent to 44.48 pounds. Earlier this week London stocks buck global trend on strong company news the bank reported a 17 percent rise in net income to 1.29 billion Egyptian pounds ($145.3 million). Vodafone Qatar dropped 3.6 percent after it reported gains. Frankfurt and Paris stocks 100,” noted CMC Markets analyst side” and would put inflation “back And Asian suppliers to the firm a net loss of QR180 million ($50 million) in the latest closed in the red, while London Jasper Lawler. in the Fed discourse.” followed suit, with Tokyo-listed quarter, versus a loss of 66 million riyals a year earlier. Vodafone shares edged 0.3 percent higher in value. Meanwhile Britain’s annual Wall Street stocks gave back Alps Electric, Japan Display and But Doha’s main index edged up 0.1 percent with rallied 1.5 percent to In the British capital, shares inflation rate slowed last month some of the prior day’s gains. Taiyo Yuden enjoying strong gains. oil rig provider Gulf International Services climbing in homebuilder Taylor Wimpey, for the first time since September, Shares in home-improvement Hon Hai in Taipei added 0.4 percent. 2.5 percent. 227.00 pence after which announced enhancements as air fares slid and clothes stores retailer Home Depot fell despite Overall stock markets in the In Dubai the index added 0.4 percent with help from the mobile phone to its shareholder dividend policy cut prices, official data showed. better-than-expected earnings region were also broadly higher. blue chip Emaar Properties, which climbed 2.3 percent. giant reported its and lifted its financial targets, rose UniCredit economist Daniel which analysts put down to mar- Tokyo jumped more than one per- Arabtec closed flat at 1.45 dirhams; it gained as much 4.7 percent. Vernazza said the fall was “very kets having already priced in cent thanks to a further rally in as 2.8 percent during the day after it said its June 1 gen- first underlying Vodafone shares rallied 1.5 likely to be temporary” but much positive results. Elsewhere, most the dollar against the yen, a day eral assembly would aim to approve a plan to use “all earnings growth in percent to 227.00 pence after the hinged on the outcome of next Asian markets climbed Tuesday after rising 0.3 percent on reports the statutory reserve to extinguish part of the compa- mobile phone giant reported its first month’s Brexit referendum. as tech firms were aided by news of a possible delay in a sales tax ny’s losses”. It gave no details. eight years. underlying earnings growth in eight “If the UK votes to remain in the of Warren Buffett’s billion-dollar increase. Attention now turns to the The company has reported losses in the past six years. London’s resources-heavy EU, as we expect, we can continue to stake in Apple. release of Japan’s first-quarter eco- quarters, which it blamed on increased costs and tough FTSE 100 was also buoyed by oil expect inflation to gradually return After last week’s sell-off, US nomic growth data on Wednesday. market conditions. In the last few days analysts at Deut- AFP prices striking recent multi-month towards the 2-percent target,” he investors provided a blistering “Markets seem to be in a rel- sche Bank cut their price target for Arabtec to 1.11 dirhams high points, pushing close to $50. said in a note to investors. lead Monday with all three main atively sweet spot with a steadily from 1.14 dirhams while maintaining a “hold” rating, Higher oil prices boost the US inflation, on the other hand, indexes sharply higher, pumped up stronger US dollar and resilient and EFG Hermes raised its target to 1.13 dirhams from energy sector because they trans- rose at the fastest pace in three by news of Buffett’s giant stake in commodities prices,” said IG ana- 1.07 dirhams while keeping a “sell” rating. LONDON: Stocks markets in late into rising revenues and years in April—at 0.4 percent—as the iPhone maker. Apple, which lyst Angus Nicholson in Melbourne. Neighbouring Abu Dhabi fell 0.5 percent, weighed Europe weakened yesterday, led profits. energy prices climbed, the gov- has tumbled since it last month “Many investors have been pre- down by a sell-off in heavyweight banking shares. Abu lower by Wall Street, but London “Well-received corporate ernment said. Zacks Investment reported the first fall in sales of dicting a pullback in markets, but Dhabi Commercial Bank lost 1.7 percent and Union National won support from a raft of posi- results and the price of oil near Research’s Sheraz Mian said the the popular smartphones, rallied despite all the negativity markets Bank declined 1.5 percent. tive company results and oil price seven-month highs helped the FTSE reading was “a tad on the elevated 3.7 percent on the announcement. have continued to grind higher.” BUSINESS VIEWS WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 27

China needs the As Brexit vote looms, US banks private sector review European commitments to step up

By Kevin Yao after it released the latest eco- Reuters nomic data. The private sector is key to China’s economic future, economists say. Big Chinese state-owned ia Xiaokang and Bruno enterprises (SOEs) hog bank Chen, who both run pri- loans and hold most of the coun- vate-sector companies, try’s fixed assets, but economists are the sort of business- say the swarm of mid-sized pri- Xmen that Chinese leaders are vate companies are the primary increasingly concerned about as source of investment, innovation economic growth slows. and productivity growth. Beijing is counting on the pri- They are crucial for Beijing vate sector to invest more in the because such firms are seen as economy and take up the slack as more efficient users of capital, in the government tries to engineer a sharp contrast with the inefficient shift away from largely state-run state-owned sector. heavy industry to more entrepre- “Weak private investment is neurial and services-led growth. a fundamental problem,” said Unfortunately, just when a researcher at the National China needs the private sector to Development and Reform Com- step up, they look to be stepping mission, the top planning agency. back. “We plan to downsize our He declined to be identified as he business rather than expand,” said was not authorized to speak pub- Chen, who runs Ningbo Tengsh- licly to the media. eng Garments Co in the coastal “We still need to unleash export hub of Zhejiang province vitality of enterprises and man- in eastern China. ufacturers to help stabilize the “We cannot feel any improve- economy.” ment in the economy,” he said. Private surveys show down- A British Union flag flutters in front of one of the clock faces of the ‘Big Ben’ in central London. Xia, general manager of Wen- ward pressure on wages as zhou Kingsdom Sanitary Ware Co factories shed workers. some 400 km (250 miles) from Chen said his company, with By Anjuli Davies and Rachel a worst-case scenario that they are being Britain rather than in America. Now, the Shanghai, similarly lacks confi- a workforce of 160, exports Armstrong forced to consider — would be so costly that prospect of an exit from the European dence in the economy. mostly to Europe. China’s tex- Reuters it would make some rethink their commit- Union has spurred these banks into action, “We have hardly made any tiles industry has been hard hit ment to the bloc altogether. albeit only on paper for now. Four Wall fixed-asset investment since last by slackening global demand, “The costs may lead some banking groups Street banks said how, with the outcome of year and we now plan to rent which has not been offset by ris- to reassess how important Europe is in the the vote and its consequences wide open, out part of our factory building ing domestic demand. f Britain votes to leave the European context of their global business and what they have been drawing up contingency because it’s too big,” he said. Xia said his clients in Rus- Union in June, some US banks could sort of presence they wish to maintain post- plans as part of their own risk planning After March data suggested sia and Venezuela have been give up parts of their business in Brexit,” said Edward Chan, a partner at the and at regulators’ behest. that economic activity was finally impacted by falls in their local the bloc altogether. The option is an law firm Linklaters, which has been advising If Britain were to remain a member of picking up after a long slowdown, currencies and conflict in parts extreme scenario under considera- banks on contingency arrangements. the European Economic Area (EEA), which April figures released at the week- of the Middle East have left his Ition by some Wall Street firms if the terms European integration has served US gives Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein end suggested otherwise. Overall customers in that region very cau- of an exit, currently a matter of speculation, investment banks well. The move to a sin- access to the EU’s single market, its financial investment, factory output and tious. Europe is steady and he was leave financial services companies in Brit- gle currency made it easier to take on the companies would retain passporting rights retail sales all grew more slowly optimistic about Southeast Asia, ain unable under their current set-ups to do bloc’s own banks, benefiting from econo- for EU countries, although Britain would than expected. he said. business inside the EU, according to discus- mies of scale by trading in euros rather than have no say in the formulation of EU rules. Private-sector investment “Interest rates are low, but sions Reuters had with several US banks and competing with, say, Societe Generale for But if Britain quit the EEA, UK-based for January to April grew just 5.2 investment is declining, which their lawyers. franc-denominated business or with Deut- firms wanting to operate in the EU would percent, its weakest pace since shows that the overall market - The scenarios being studied by task- sche Bank in deutschmarks. face an “equivalence” test to prove to Brus- the National Bureau of Statistics domestic and overseas market forces at US banks underscore the extent to The big five US banks have all been sels that their home rules are as strict as (NBS) started recording the data - is not good,” he said. which the London operations of non-Euro- gaining market share while European those in the EU. They would also probably in 2012. More worrying, private- Government efforts since last pean banks are linked to investment banks restructure. In the first need a locally capitalised subsidiary in the sector investment is decelerating year to stimulate the economy business on the continent. quarter, JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs and Mor- EU, more expensive than running a branch. sharply from rates near 25 percent have been designed to cushion In particular focus are gan Stanley took the top three positions for Leading Brexit campaigner Boris Johnson in 2013, to just 10 percent last year slowing growth and limit unem- the banks’ market oper- investment banking fees in Europe, Mid- has said Britain could create a “Britzerland”, and now just over 5 percent. ployment. Economists said the ations, as trading of most dle East and Africa (EMEA), according to based on Switzerland’s bilateral treaties The reason policymakers are efforts naturally targeted the pub- European securities is Thomson Reuters data. But it is outside the with Brussels. Other US banks say the so concerned is that private-sec- lic sector, but they have done little regulated at the EU level eurozone, in the City of London, that they region is too important to turn their back tor fixed-asset investment, which to resolve the challenges facing but conducted by many base their EU businesses. The investment on, but that a messy post-Brexit agreement includes land, equipment and private Chinese firms, in partic- investment banks mainly bankers heading up M&A advisory teams would require a major reorganisation. buildings, accounted for more ular weakness in manufacturing, out of London. for the likes of Italy and France all tend to JP Morgan Securities Plc says its anal- than 60 percent of overall invest- where much of the private sec- Four Wall Street banks The five largest US live in London rather than Rome or Paris. ysis shows that, under some scenarios, its ment in January to April. The tor’s pain is concentrated. banks employ 40,000 Of the just under 6,500 staff who handle UK-based subsidiaries “might not be able sector provides a third of all jobs Indeed, state-sector fixed- said how, with the people in London, Goldman Sachs International’s broker-dealer to perform new business with European in China and creates 90 percent of asset investment in January to outcome of the vote more than in the rest of services for all of EMEA, a region that brings Union-based clients directly”. To keep that new urban jobs, state media have April rose 23.7 percent from a year and its consequences Europe combined, tak- in around 35 percent of group revenue, fewer business, it would have to change its legal reported. earlier. “Government spending is ing advantage of the EU than 1,000 are based outside Britain. These entity structure and its booking model. “Because the total amount of targeting sectors that advantage wide open, they have “passporting” regime UK outposts have increased in importance JP Morgan International Bank Plc said private investment is relatively SOEs,” said Tim Condon, econ- been drawing up that allows them to offer since the 2008 global financial crisis, when it might be required to “transfer existing large, its continued slowdown omist at ING in Singapore. “So services across the bloc banks tried to simplify their international and new business with continental Euro- could restrain stable growth, and there’s less insulating, less boost- contingency plans out of their British hubs. structures into a few main hubs. pean clients into a European Economic requires a high degree of atten- ing to the private sector in the face as part of their own Having to reorgan- The major US banks also use their Lon- Area affiliate”. Despite the growing nerv- tion,” the NBS said on Saturday of what are pretty stiff shocks.” ise business in order to don entities to help them avoid the brunt of ousness, the US banks say they have not risk planning and at set up new continen- new US trading rules brought in with the yet made any firm investments in alterna- regulators’ behest. tal European outposts Dodd-Frank regulation, booking swap trade tive outposts or property in the eurozone, — which US banks say is agreements with non-US counterparties in preferring to wait for the vote. Hedge funds turn cautious on crude just as Goldman gets less bearish

By John Kemp Goldman Sachs turns mildly bullish”, Reu- modest amounts of fresh shorts emerging. pushing more bearish traders and analysts Reuters ters, May 16). The balance of forces in the oil market to the margins. While the bank remained cautious about between supply-demand fundamentals, But oil prices have already risen a long market rebalancing and warned about the hedge fund positions and oil prices has way from their February lows anticipating he oil market has gone from nearing possible correction in prices, hedge funds become rather complicated. the rebalancing which is now occurring. storage saturation to being in defi- were amassing a record bullish position in As Goldman noted, the fundamental The concentration of hedge fund long “Tcit much earlier than we expected,” futures and options in anticipation of a recov- picture has become more bullish in recent positions continues to overhang the mar- Goldman Sachs analysts said in a research ery. Between the start of January and the end weeks, with continued evidence of strong oil ket, heightening the risk of a price reversal note published on Sunday. of April, hedge funds and other money man- demand from the United States and India, and if speculators all try to exit their positions at “The physical rebalancing of the oil mar- agers almost tripled their net long position in a growing number of large supply disruptions. the same time. ket has finally started,” according to the bank, WTI and Brent futures and options from 234 A range of price indicators also suggest And the big rise in prices since the start which has been among the most bearish on million barrels to a record 663 million barrels. that the rally in oil prices, which appeared to of the year will throw a lifeline to some pro- Goldman is exceptionally the outlook for surpluses and prices. Long positions anticipating a rise in prices have run out of steam in the first few of May, ducers, which could delay the completion of well connected with the Goldman raised its near-term forecasts were increased by 133 million barrels while has acquired renewed drive (“Oil rally loses the rebalancing process. for WTI by around $10 per barrel in both the short position expecting a price fall were cut momentum”, Reuters, May 11). Overall, the risks in the oil market now hedge fund community second and third quarters of 2016 (“Funda- by 208 million barrels. Front-month futures prices have hit fresh appear much more evenly balanced than at the and its forecasts are mental volatility creates uncertain path for In the past couple of weeks, however, just highs and moved back above the 20-day start of the year, which creates more uncer- oil rebalancing”, Goldman Sachs, May 15). as Goldman was turning more bullish, the moving average, suggesting that the rally has tainty about near-term market direction. In famous for influencing In many ways the bank is playing catch hedge funds have become more cautious and momentum. Time spreads, which are often the longer term, oil prices probably have to oil prices, at least in the up, because WTI has already risen $20, been taking profits following the rally. correlated with the supply-demand balance, rise further to moderate the growth in demand almost 80 percent, from its low on Feb. 11. The combined net long position in WTI have tightened again in the last week. and incentivise more investment in supply. On short term. Goldman is exceptionally well connected and Brent was cut by 43 million barrels in the Refining margins, as typified by generic the present trajectory, the oil market is headed with the hedge fund community and its fore- week to May 3 and a further 45 million barrels markers such as the 3-2-1 crack spread, have for a big supply deficit by 2018/19. But in the casts are famous for influencing oil prices, at in the week to May 10, an overall reduction also showed renewed strength after weaken- short term, the market has already recorded least in the short term. of almost 13 percent. ing in the first week of May. All these signals most of the price increases that were expected But Goldman and the majority of hedge Most of the adjustment has come from the could attract more interest from hedge funds for 2016 and 2017 just a few months ago (“Oil funds parted company on the oil outlook at long side of the market, as hedge funds have on the long side of the market. The whole prices expected to recover to around $70 by the start of the year (“Oil price ultra-bear locked in some of their profits, with more oil and products complex remains well bid, 2020”, Reuters, March 7). 28 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 BUSINESS

BACK TO BUSINESS sight Noisy Mumbai car lots show how Oil rally suggests supply worries wane, India is becoming oil’s new star but for how long?

By Saket Sundria and Dan Murtaugh Bloomberg By Devika Krishna Kumar that the US energy industry is Reuters in a hurry to respond to a jump in demand because they’re still cutting back on projects,” said nvestors looking for a break from the doom Phil Flynn, senior energy ana- and gloom of the past two years in the oil rally in US crude oil lyst at Price Futures Group. market need only turn to a hot, noisy lot in prices recently has As prices inched close to $50 a Mumbai. put the market on its barrel last week, the oil rig count There on a recent Saturday, a tall, cricket- firmest footing since fell further to October 2009 lows, Iloving, 34-year-old engineer named Anil Gaikwad Athe rout started in 2014, with suggesting US shale producers took part in a rite of passage that for nearly a cen- the spread between prices for may yet need even higher prices tury has helped define entry to India’s middle class. near-term delivery and future to restart production. He bought a car. And with that, his life got eas- delivery narrowing, suggesting The rebound in near-term ier as he cut his commuting time and parked his the worst of the supply glut may prices has also driven hedging motorcycle. be over. activity that has suppressed the Gaikwad’s sudden upgrade from being a mere Oil prices in global markets prices of later-dated contracts. gasoline sipper is emblematic of a larger trend in have been lifted in the past week The discount for crude for deliv- India. The country is the new “star performer” in oil by news of falling US production ery in December 2016 versus demand, taking over from China as the world’s main and output disruptions in Can- delivery in December 2018 nar- growth market, according to the Paris-based Inter- ada and Nigeria. rowed to $1.21, after a spread as national Energy Agency. Increasing consumption in The production cuts are seen steep as $8 in December 2015. nations like India will be needed to maintain oil’s helping to rebalance a market The December 2016 steady rebound from a 12-year low as demand stalls awash with excess crude oil, discount to December 2017 con- in developed countries including the US and Japan. pushing up prices for NYMEX tract, one of the most actively “India will continue to become a more and more June futures delivery up as traded spreads, also narrowed important consumer in the world oil market,” said dependent on buses for daily commute and occa- director of finance at India’s second largest fuel much as 11 percent in the last by the most since November Rajiv Biswas, chief economist for Asia-Pacific at sionally used the motorcycle,” Gaikwad said. “I was retailer Bharat Petroleum Corp. “Definitely good four days. It settled on Mon- 2014 to as low as 60 cents. consulting firm IHS Inc. “Over the next 5 years, it spending a lot of time traveling.” manufacturing activity and an increase in the day at $47.72 a barrel. Traders “To me, it suggests that the could add around 2 million barrels a day, which Gaikwad isn’t alone at the car lot. Domestic movement of goods is pushing diesel consumption.” are watching the relationship market balances are tighter than could have quite a big impact on global oil supply vehicle sales in India rose 5.6 percent in the year Per capita income is expected to grow to $4,700 between futures contracts what people have believed or and demand balances.” ended March 31 to more than 20 million, according in 2025 from $1,650 last year, IHS’s Biswas said. expiring later this year and sim- generally the consensus has A government push to add 100 million manu- to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufactur- That will allow people to go from spending nearly ilar contracts expiring in late been in recent months,” said facturing jobs, improved standards of living and ers. Chinese car sales were about 25 million over all their money on food and necessities, to being 2018. The spread, or contango, John Saucer, vice president of poor public transportation are stoking a boom in the same period, while in Japan it was 4.9 million. able to afford cars, motorbikes and air travel. has narrowed to its smallest research and analysis at Mobius shipping and car sales in India. Combined, these Asia is the only region in the world that is short India’s petrol consumption in the fiscal year margin since November 2014. Risk Group in Houston. things will propel massive growth in consumption on energy and rapidly growing. It was Asian eco- ended in March grew at more than 14.5 percent from The narrowing contango sug- Hedging amongst produc- of petrol and diesel in the country. nomic expansion, led by China, that drove oil prices the year earlier, the fastest since at least 2002. Die- gests excess supply is finally being ers has been active, with oil India consumed 4 million barrels of oil a day to $100 a barrel last decade. With the Chinese econ- sel use gained 7.5 percent, the most in four years. reduced after years of overpro- companies taking their big- last year, according to the IEA, and is expected to omy slowing to a more sustainable pace, that leaves Sales of medium and heavy commercial vehicles duction, but if US shale producers gest short position in US crude surpass Japan as the world’s third-largest oil user room for a new country to spur oil demand. rose nearly 30 percent, according to the Society ramp up drilling again the market futures since the summer of this year. It will be the fastest-growing crude con- An industrial revolution is at the heart of the of Indian Automobile Manufacturers. Commer- may yet fall back. With several US 2007, according to CFTC data, sumer in the world through 2040, according to the growth. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious cial vehicles account for 40 percent of total diesel shale producers saying they would in order to protect themselves IEA, adding 6 million barrels a day of demand, com- plan to create new factory jobs by 2020 will boost consumed in India. turn the spigots back on if prices against price falls. Producer pared with 4.8 million for China. that sector’s share of the economy to 25 percent In a New Delhi car lot, Bhartendu Om kicked the recovered to about $45 a bar- hedging has pressured longer- Gaikwad chose a shiny, metallic brown Maruti from 18 percent in 2014. Manufacturing drives oil tires of a Mahindra Scorpio SUV. The 24-year-old rel, the market has been bracing dated contracts, contributing to Suzuki Crossover S-Cross as his new transporta- use both by increasing the amount of goods that recently quit his job with a market research firm to itself for renewed supply as prices the narrower spread. Goldman tion. The small SUV is big enough for him to fit his need to be moved around on ships and trucks and study German in hopes of a brighter future. And he recovered from 12-year lows, but Sachs said the hedging activity wife and 3-year-old daughter, and it will ease his by raising living standards for workers. wanted a car to match those dreams. “We haven’t that may not happen quickly. could cause the rally in those daily trip to work and monthly journey to his home- “Mobility of people is rising. The standards of had an SUV before,” he said. “There is a social cur- “We’re not seeing any signs contracts to stall. town in Aurangabad, 400km away. “I was mostly living has increased,” said P Balasubramanian, rency associated with it. It’s a pull.”

IMF cannot see anything positive in a vote for the UK to Capital exit the EU. A vote to leave the EU would precipitate a protracted period of heightened uncertainty. Comment IMF Chief Christine Lagarde

TOP TWEETS BLOGS AND VIEWS Name in the Market Argaam Plus @ HEARD ON THE STREET ArgaamPlus National Commercial GLOBAL APPAREL EXPORTS #Bank plans overseas expansion Europe’s corporate bond market is booming, buoyed by a recovery in risk appetite and the prospect of Fitch Ratings @ purchases by the European Central FitchRatings Bank starting in June. Conditions Covered bonds issued look much more comfortable for by Australia’s 4 major banks in 1Q16 up 51.8% borrowers than for investors, yoy, the highest level though. since 1Q12

World Bank @WorldBank DealB%k Only 17 percent of firms worldwide have a female top manager. Equal opportunities Exactly seven years ago, the matter Federal Reserve cut interest Morgan Stanley@ rates to almost zero in order to MorganStanley nurse the ailing economy back “Sustainable investing to health. Recently it changed has the power to cre- ate change”-Audrey direction. This is how it works. Cho www.thepeninsulaqatar.com PAGE | 31 PAGE | 35 Ranieri named Lin Dan vows to England’sE Manager ‘find rhythm’ after of the Year Thomas Cup scare

WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 • 11 SHA’BAAN 1437 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar Umm Salal change training camp dates

The Peninsula meaning that Umm Salal will leave from August 6 and they are expected to return on August 26. The change has been made fol- DOHA: Qatar Stars League (QSL) lowing the confirmation that the team Umm Salal amended the dates QSL season will now start on Sep- of their training camp ahead of the tember 16. new 2016/2017 QSL season. Head coach Bülent Uygun will The Orange Fortress is set to now begin preparations in earnest head to the Netherlands for their for his side, arranging key friendly pre-season training camp. Club offi- matches and finalizing the training cial Ali Amin confirmed that the club regime of his squad with his back- will head to the same training camp room staff. El Jaish’s Ahmed Moein, Al Sadd’s Ali Asad and Abdulkarim Hassin who are among nominees for Best Young Player Award. where the squad prepared for the Umm Salal finished in fifth place 2015/2016 season. in the QSL standings, just missing out Amin also confirmed that the on a Qatar Cup place with a tally of QFA Awards: Top trio in line club has changed the travel dates, 41 points. for Best Young Player Award

One of the most important awards an impact in the side forcing him into Lekhwiya on Friday evening. which are on offer, is the Best Young contention. His hard work culminated Al Sadd’s left-back Abdulkarim Top performers to be Player Award. The nominees for this in a man of the match performance in Hassin is the final player who has rewarded as Football prestigious award include three stars the Qatar Cup final as El Jaish edged been nominated for the best Under season reaches of the Qatar U23 side that finished in out rivals Al Sadd 2-1. 23 award. The defender has repre- fourth place in the recent AFC U23 Al Sadd’s tenacious midfielder Ali sented Qatar both at the AFC Under final straight championship which was held in Asad also enjoyed a fine 2015/2016 23 championships on home soil reg- Qatar in January of this year. season. The 23 year old was ever istering an impressive four goals for First up is El Jaish midfielder present for the Qatar U23 side in the his side in the competition. Domesti- Ahmed Moein who enjoyed a fine AFC championships taking part in cally Abdulkarim has been a regular The Peninsula Under 23 tournament taking part in all seven games of the tournament. choice for his side at left-back as Al Al Sailiya players celebrate all but one of Al Anabi’s games as they Whilst also gaining caps for Qatar at Sadd finished in third place in the QSL during a Qatar Stars League finished in fourth place in the conti- full international level. standings. match in this file photo. nental competition. The midfielders Domestically, Asad has been Perhaps the biggest highlight for DOHA: Marking the end of the composed performances in the cen- learning his trade with one of the the defender was his last-gasp winner domestic football season of the coun- tre of the park convinced parent club best midfielders in the game in Xavi. for his side as they defeated Lekhwiya try, the promising young stars will be El Jaish to recall him early from his Asad made a total of nineteen appear- 3-2 in the Qatar Stars League. He will rewarded at the prestigious Qatar loan at KAS Eupen. ances for the Wolves this season and be expecting similar luck when Al Football Awards which will take place Going into the second half of the is expected to have a starting place Sadd takes on Lekhwiya in the Emir Mixed fortunes on Saturday. season, Moein slowly began to make ahead of the Emir Cup final against Cup on Friday. for Al Sailiya

Prizes galore for fans in Emir Cup final The Peninsula QSL SEASON R EVIEW

The Peninsula DOHA: Al Sailiya has comfortably enjoyed mid-table mediocrity over Striker Faouzi Aaish was the the last few seasons in the Qatar main man for Sailiya this term. Stars League. The Bahraini international DOHA: Qatar Football Association They certainly expected to build notched 14 goals and his first ever (QFA) yesterday announced scores on this as they bolstered their ranks hat-trick for the club in the 5-0 of prizes have been lined up for fans ahead of the 2015/2016 season after defeat of Qatar SC underlined the who turn up to watch the Emir Cup enjoying a season filled with mixed importance that the fiery attacker final on May 20. fortunes. had for the club. The prizes which will be offered Experienced European talent Moral boosting wins over through a raffle draw are a part of in Dragos Grigore and Raoul Loé Meisameer (3-1) and a last gasp 3-2 every major football event in Qatar. were key figures among those who win over Lekhwiya was enough to Giving details of the preparations pushed Al Sailiya into the top-four, convince the Sailiya hierarchy to after joining the Peregrines from tie Sami Trabelsi to a new long term Toulouse and Osasuna respectively. contract. Sailiya started the new sea- The Tunisian tactician con- son on the back foot with two 4-0 firmed his status as the longest defeats at the hands of Al Rayyan serving QSL manager by signing a and El Jaish. three year deal in February. Their first six games took on Two solid 2-1 victories against the four sides who finished in the Al Kharaitiyat and Al Ahli should top-five of the QSL, and this was have set up a grandstand push for reflected in only two wins against the top four with five QSL games lower opposition in Meisameer and to play. managed by the organizing commit- are complete. Everything related to secretaries general for key meetings Al Wakrah. The Peregrines began However just picking five points tee, QFA Secretary General Mansoor the event is in place. We expect a full the next day. He said the regional to look towards the relegation zone. from a possible fifteen available Al Ansari said: “Yes, there’s going to house for the final between Al Sadd football family is expected to attend In late November, Sami Trabel- left Al Sailiya finishing in seventh be a lot of prizes on offer for those and Lekhwiya.” the final. si’s side turned a corner and place in the QSL standings, eight who attend the final. This is the big- Captain Mubarak Bilal Ali, repre- The QFA Secretary General registered four back to back wins, points away from fourth placed gest football tournament in Qatar and senting Ministry of Interior, was also said gates will be open to the pub- including the impressive 5-0 win Lekhwiya. we expect a house full.” present at the media briefing. lic two hours prior to the kick-off over Qatar SC, along with shock Sami Trabelsi can draw plenty He added: “The Emir Cup final Al Ansari said those wanting to time. Captain Ali urged the fans to wins over Al Sadd (2-1) and Al of positives from this term. QFA Secretary General will start at 7:00pm at Jassim Bin purchase tickets can do so by visiting reach the match venue at least two Arabi (2-0). The team has played good foot- Mansoor Al Ansari Hamad Stadium. A total of 10 Toy- shopping malls around Doha and the hours in advance to avoid traffic The squad seemed to find their ball beating some of the best sides addressing a media ota vehicles besides Iphones, and 51 ticket counter at Jassim Bin Hamad congestion. stride under the Tunisian and pre- in the QSL and more consistency during a press conference East coupons could be won by those Stadium. He advised the fans to obey traffic pared for a big push for the top 4 from them could see them chal- held yesterday. who attend the final.” Al Ansari said QFA will be host- rules and follow road signs to reach places going into the second half lenge for the top four spots again Al Ansari said: “Our preparations ing regional football chiefs and their free parking spots. of the season. next term. 30 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 SPORT Tennis young guns ready to take over

Throw teenagers Hyeon Chung (South Korea), Karen Khachanov Federer, Nadal, (Russia) and Quentin Halys (France) Djokovic and Murray into the mix alongside American 18-year-old Taylor Fritz, the youngest have dominated the player in the top 100, Japan’s Yoshihito ATP Tour since 2003 Nishioka, Britain’s Kyle Edmund and but new talent has Swede Elias Ymer and there appears to be critical mass of youngsters emerged to challenge boasting ‘future grand slam cham- present-day giants pion’ potential. Five years ago there were seven players aged 21 and under in the top 150, today that figure has risen to 13. That said, there are no guarantees, Reuters according to American Brad Gilbert, a former top-10 player and coach to the likes of Andre Agassi and Murray. LONDON: Tennis fans should intox- “To become a great player and icate themselves on the elixir still world number one and Grand Slam being served up by the best men’s gen- winner, you already have to be great eration to grace the game before the when you’re a teenager,” Gilbert said. Croatia’s Borna Coric well dries up and mere mortals take “But I believe that there will be over, at least that’s what the doom- someone in this current group who mongers think. steps up.” They say when 17-times Grand Stepping up to join Federer, Djok- Slam champion Roger Federer, clay- ovic and Nadal, winners of 17, 14 and court king Rafael Nadal and Serbian 11 Grand Slam titles since 2003, has winning-machine Novak Djokovic, been notoriously difficult, not just for not to mention the mercurial Andy rising stars, but everyone else. Murray, hang up their rackets qual- Since 2010 Murray and Stanislas ity, and interest, will suffer. Wawrinka have won two apiece and However, a hungry bunch of Marin Cilic one while Juan Martin del young lions are showing all the signs Potro is the only other active player of keeping the flame burning long to have won a major. after the Fab Four settle down to a “It’s been tougher to make really Australia’s Nick quiet life polishing their silverware. big breakthroughs because the Big Kyrgios At Indian Wells this year the men’s Four have sustained their excellence Tour launched its ATP#NextGen cam- for an insane amount of time,” Gil- paign to promote rising stars aged 21 bert said. Zverev twice crushed former big hope about Coric, but what I think that at the top, top 10 at least, if not then “It’s exciting,” he said. “I’ve lived and under. Kyrgios, a Wimbledon quar- Grigor Dimitrov and almost beat shows is there is a very strong group of top five. Number one is always a big through the Borg-McEnroe era, They were not short of names. ter-finalist two years ago aged 19, is Nadal at Indian Wells. teenagers or young guys coming up,” ask. A lot of things need to align for Becker and Agassi and Sampras, Volatile but dazzling 21-year-old leading the charge having risen to a Zverev cautions against predict- he said. “I think we can all do great.” that: consistency, fitness, mental.” people said things would never be Australian Nick Kyrgios, Borna Coric, career-high 19th in the world heading ing a decline for the big guns any Federer is regularly asked his With world number one Djoko- the same again. a Croatian teenager with uncanny to the French Open. He won his first time soon but says he is part of excit- opinion of who will be the future stars vic turning 29 this week, a few days “But Kyrgios, Zverev, Chung, Coric, similarities to a young Djokovic and ATP title this year and made semis in ing times. and likes the look of Zverev, having after Murray, Nadal 30 and Federer they are coming and the great thing Alexander Zverev, a German already Dubai, Miami and Estoril. “There are a lot of stories about beaten him in Rome last week. soon to be 35, ATP chief Chris Ker- is that they have such global appeal. being compared to Boris Becker, are Coric reached his first ATP final me being potential number one, about “He will only get better from mode is eagerly waiting to see how They are at the cusp and we’ll see who already established in the top 50. in India at the start of the year, while Kyrgios being a potential number one, here,” the Swiss said. “He will compete the tyros shape up. makes the jump first.” The players to watch this year ...

Reuters Wawrinka’s girlfriend but is letting his ten- Has struggled to chalk up big results especially at Wimbledon. Coached by his next day and do it again and again and again,” nis do the talking this season. against players in the top 20 but did make father and former pro, also Alex. “Clearly he he told the ATP website recently. Won his first ATP title in Marseille and finals in Chennai and Marrakesh. has a big game and nice technique and good 84-Kyle Edmund - Britain (21) L O N D O N : The top of the men’s game has made semis at Dubai, Miami and Estoril. “He is the best mover of the younger play- attitude,” Federer said recently. A member of the British Davis Cup team been set in stone for a decade with first Roger Pushed Rafael Nadal hard on clay at Italian ers, a bit of a copy of Djokovic, but less talent 72-Taylor Fritz - US (18) that won the trophy for the first time in 79 Federer and Rafael Nadal, then joined by Open and has reached a career-high ranking. than some of the other young guys,” Gilbert The youngest member of the top 100. By years last November, the 21-year-old has ben- Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray dominat- “The key for him is maturity and being said. reaching the Memphis Open final, he became efited from spending time with compatriot ing the top of the ATP rankings. consistent week in week out,” former top-10 48-Alexander Zverev - Germany (19) the youngest American man to reach a Tour Murray during an intensive training camp in There are signs that a new generation are player, leading coach and ESPN summariser Nearly two metres tall and packing huge final since Michael Chang in 1989. He lost to Dubai before the start of 2016. ready to carry the torch when time finally Brad Gilbert said. weapons with his serve and forehand, Zverev Kei Nishikori. A completely different animal Having picked up tips from Murray on catches up on the Big Four. “He has the most talent of any of the under also boasts the kind of fluid movement that to Chang though, relying on a powerful first how to improve his game, Edmund battled Here are the ones to watch as the French 21s but can he put it all together to sustain similarly tall players struggle with. serve and a crushing forehand. through qualifying before reaching his first Open looms (world ranking in parentheses, what he needs to do?” Appears to thrive on the show courts and His country’s big hope also seems to have ATP quarter-final in Doha. age in brackets) 44-Borna Coric - Croatia (19) outplayed Nadal this year in Indian Wells the work ethic to go far. “My philosophy is you “He’s made great progress. He’s a better 19-Nick Kyrgios - Australia (21) Lacks the killer weapons of Kyrgios and before missing a match point and succumb- work so hard that you want to quit tennis. You athlete than I thought. He’s got a huge fore- Kyrgios was threatened with ban last year Alexander Zverev but makes up for that with ing. Germany are looking for a new Boris get to the point where you are so dead and hand. He’s got huge upside,” American great after making lurid remarks about the Stan a maturity beyond his years. Becker and Zverev could be their best hope, tired. Then you come back and do it again the John McEnroe said. 31 new doping cases from Beijing Games risk ban: IOC

AFP none were named by the IOC which Sochi laboratory was subverted by issued a statement after an executive Russia’s secret services and sports Eure Yanez of board meeting in Lausanne. ministry. Venezuela takes part LAUSANNE: Up to 31 athletes from The board “agreed unanimously Russian authorities have strongly in the Men’s High 12 countries could be banned from to initiate proceedings immediately,” denied any wrongdoing, but IOC Jump Final at a test the Rio Olympics for doping after new said the statement and the 12 national president Thomas Bach called the event a Rio Olympic tests on samples from the 2008 Bei- Olympic committees involved would allegations against the Sochi labora- Stadium, Rio de jing Games, the International Olympic be informed within days. tory “worrying”. Janeiro, Brazil Committee (IOC) said yesterday. “All those athletes infringing anti- The IOC said Sochi samples will The 31 were caught in new tests on doping rules will be banned from be re-examined at the Lausanne anti- 454 Beijing samples using “the very competing at the Olympic Games Rio doping laboratory, where they are latest scientific analysis methods,” 2016,” the IOC declared. stored for 10 years. the International Olympic Commit- The results of new examinations “We keep samples for 10 years so tee said. on 250 samples taken at the London that the cheats know that they can The re-examination was part of Games are due “shortly” and mean the never rest,” said IOC president Tho- widespread measures taken by sport- total failures could increase. mas Bach. ing bodies after a wave of new doping More than 5,000 tests were car- Bach called the new measures scandals to hit international sport ried out in London, according to IOC “another major step to protect the with Russia at the centre. figures. clean athletes irrespective of any Results from 250 retests on sam- About 4,000 tests were carried sport or any nation.” ples taken at the 2012 London Games out in Beijing. Just after the Games, the The IOC said it would take “swift are due “shortly” and mean the fail- IOC re-examined nearly 1,000 with a action” following the result of WADA’s ures could increase. new test for the blood-boosting drug investigation into the allegations The IOC has also ordered that CERA. The 1500m men’s champion against the Sochi laboratory. samples from the 2014 Sochi Win- Rashid Ramzi of Bahrain was among Russia is already battling to get its ter Olympics be retested following five athletes caught. track and field athletes back into the allegations that the Russian city’s The IOC also warned that it will International Association of Athletics anti-doping laboratory was “sub- start “a wider re-testing programme Federations (IAAF) so that they can verted” to help Russian athletes. of medalists from Beijing and London. take part in the Rio de Janeiro Games. “All these measures are a power- The samples of athletes who could be The IAAF suspended Russia over ful strike against the cheats we do not awarded medals following the dis- what WADA called a “state-spon- allow to win,” IOC president Thomas qualification of others will also be sored” doping regime. It is to decide Bach said. retested.” on Russia’s case on June 11. “They show once again that dop- The IOC board demanded that the Russian Sports Minister Vitaly ers have no place to hide.” World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Mutko apologised for the athletes The suspect athletes from the Bei- start “a fully fledged investigation” actions in a commentary published jing Games took part in six sports, but into allegations that testing at the on Sunday. SPORT WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 31 Costa, Torres miss the Euro 2016 bus

were also high-profile names left out reduces our preparation because until by Del Bosque. the fourth we won’t all be together and Spanish team’s coach Vicente Naturalised Brazilian The absence of Costa and the in- that is just six days before the Euros del Bosque gestures during an Costa has struggled form Torres means Del Bosque has start,” added Del Bosque. interview ahead of the Euro at international level only two central strikers to choose Spain squad 2016 competition, at Soccer City from in 35-year-old Aritz Aduriz and Goalkeepers: Iker Casillas (Porto/ in Las Rozas near Madrid in this with just one goal Juventus’ Alvaro Morata. POR), David De Gea (Manchester April 14, 2016 file picture. in 10 games since Arsenal’s Santi Cazorla was also United/ENG), Sergio Rico (Sevilla) excluded having just returned from a Defenders: Jordi Alba, Gerard declaring to play for long-term knee injury. Pique, Marc Bartra (all Barcelona), Spain in 2013 The uncapped Saul Niguez and Sergio Ramos, Dani Carvajal (Real Lucas Vazquez of Atletico Madrid and Madrid), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea/ Real Madrid did make the 25, whilst ENG), Juanfran (Atletico Madrid) Villarreal captain Bruno Soriano Midfielders: Sergio Busquets, AFP was surprisingly included amongst Andres Iniesta (both Barcelona), 10 midfielders. David Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Del Bosque also named 11 Mikel San Jose (Athletic Bilbao), Koke, uncapped promising younger players Saul Niguez (both Atletico Madrid), LAS ROZAS DE MADRID, Spain: to bulk up his squad for the friend- Cesc Fabregas (Chelsea/ENG), Thi- Chelsea striker Diego Costa was lies against Bosnia and Hercegovina ago Alcantara (Bayern Munich/GER), left out of Spain coach Vicente del and South Korea on May 29 and June Isco (Real Madrid), Bruno Soriano Bosque’s provisional 25-man squad 1 respectively with Real and Atletico (Villarreal) for Euro 2016 yesterday. players set to take part in the Cham- Forwards: Pedro Rodriguez The naturalised Brazilian missed pions League final on May 28. (Chelsea/ENG), Alvaro Morata (Juven- Chelsea’s last two games of the season Spain begin their campaign tus/ITA), Aritz Aduriz (Athletic Bilbao), due to a persistent hamstring injury against the Czech Republic on June 13 Nolito (Celta Vigo), Lucas Vazquez and has struggled at international before also facing Turkey and Croatia (Real Madrid) level with just one goal in 10 games in Group D. Back-up players (final squad to since declaring to play for Spain in The first part of the squad will be announced on May 31): 2013. meet on May 23 with a further nine Sergio Asenjo, Denis Suarez (Vil- “We didn’t want to bring too many players joining after taking part in larreal), Pau Lopez (Espanyol), Hector players with a certain doubt over their respective Cup finals on May 28. Bellerin (Arsenal/ENG), Diego Llorente physical condition,” Del Bosque said The seven Real and Atletico play- (Rayo Vallecano), Jorge Mere (Sport- of Costa’s omission from the two-time ers in the squad will meet up on June ing Gijon), Jonathan Castro (Celta defending champions’ squad. 4 and only be available for one pre- Vigo), Pablo Fornals (Malaga), Marco Del Bosque will have cut his final tournament friendly against Georgia Asensio (Espanyol), Inaki Williams squad to 23 players on May 31. on June 7. (Athletic Bilbao), Mikel Oyarzabal World Cup winners Fernando “That we have three teams in (Real Sociedad) Torres, Juan Mata and Javi Martinez European finals is fantastic, but it

France kick off Euro preparations Ranieri named England’s Manager of the Year in Biarritz Agencies Manager of the Year in his homeland His departure follows those of last month. ex-FA chairman David Bernstein AFP He succeeds Bournemouth’s and Mervyn King, former governor Eddie Howe, who won last year’s of the Bank of England, who left last LONDON: Leicester City’s inspira- prestigious LMA award after steer- month after saying their new foot- BIARRITZ, France: Euro 2016 tional manager Claudio Ranieri has ing Bournemouth to promotion from ball board had been unable to enact hosts France yesterday kicked picked up another piece of silverware the Championship for the first time vital reforms. off preparations for next month’s after being elected Manager of the in the club’s history. “I explained to (chairman) Steve tournament with a first training Year by England’s League Managers “My congratulations go to the Hollis a few weeks ago that I would camp in Biarritz on the southwest- Association (LMA). LMA manager of the year sponsored not be looking to take on a full-time ern French coast. The 64-year-old Italian, who by Barclays, Claudio Ranieri, who, in role with the club, but agreed to Coach Didier Deschamps, led Leicester to a 5,000-1 Premier his first year as manager of Leicester remain as an advisor until the end who comes from nearby Bayonne, League title triumph, becomes City, has achieved the most astonish- of the season,” Bevington told the opted to bring his squad here for only the second non-Briton to win ing of sporting triumphs,” said LMA club website. five days and four training ses- the award after Arsenal’s French chairman Howard Wilkinson, the “There is a huge amount of work sions at the Stade Aguilera, which manager Arsene Wenger, who was former Leeds United manager. ahead for Aston Villa FC. A club of its is home to local rugby team Biar- honoured in 2002 and 2004. “He thoroughly deserves all size with its great support should be ritz Olympique. Ranieri, who was also crowned the recognition and praise being competing at the higher levels of the The camp on the Atlan- Premier League Manager of the Year, bestowed upon him tonight.” Premier League, not in the position tic coast is a first get together to collected the award at a ceremony in Ranieri was due to fly to Thai- it currently finds itself. regenerate after a gruelling sea- London on Monday after a helicopter land with his squad on Tuesday for “To move forward, now more son, undergo tests and get away ride from Leicester’s Premier League a post-season trip to the country of than ever, it is crucial the club makes from the national training centre victory parade. the club’s owners, travel retail group the right calls on the big decisions it at Clairefontaine, outside Paris, “As a player I was not a cham- King Power. is faced with.” which will be the France base dur- pion, but I had great heart,” he told Meanwhile, former Football Villa were relegated from the ing the championship from June the audience. Association executive Adrian Bev- English top flight for the first time 10-July 10. “I told my players I wanted them ington has left his advisory post at since 1987. In theory, 16 players will to play English football and I put my Aston Villa, the relegated Premier The club sacked two managers be on Tuesday’s flight to Biar- little Italian tactics with their English League club announced yesterday. over the course of the season -- Tim ritz -- Benoit Costil, Hugo Lloris, heart and then we can do something Bevington joined Villa in March to Sherwood and Remi Garde -- with Alphonse Aréola, Lucas Digne, special. review and evaluate the managerial Eric Black taking over in a caretaker Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri, left, gestures to supporters as Christophe Jallet, Laurent “They followed me. It is a fair- position and playing staff at the ail- role. Koscielny, Eliaquim Mangala, he stands on a stage with team captain Wes Morgan after a victory ytale and I don’t know what has ing Midlands club, who finished the American owner Randy Lerner is Bacary Sagna, Djibril Sidibé, Sam- parade through the streets of Leicester by English Premier League happened. I don’t know, believe me.” season at the foot of the table with reported to be close to agreeing the uel Umtiti, N’Golo Kanté, Moussa Champions Leicester City, in Leicester, Britain, on Monday. Ranieri was also named Italian just 17 points. sale of the club. Sissoko, Olivier Giroud, Dimitri Payet, Hatem Ben Arfa and Alex- andre Lacazette. Forwards André-Pierre Gig- nac will join the squad during the week from his Mexican side Tigres Hodgson tells Rashford to grab England chance UANL. Other players are still involved in Cup finals with their league sides -- PSG and Marseille in AFP don’t select those types of players. to action following spells on the the ones we’ve chosen are good France (Blaise Matuidi, Adr- “If I’d have been that fearful of sidelines. enough.” ien Rabiot, Lassana Diarra, and selecting players, I’d have missed Hodgson did not speak to Rash- Hodgson, who revealed that he Steve Mandanda); Barcelona and out on quite a few good ones. I’m ford prior to announcing his squad, will test a 4-3-3 formation in one Sevilla in Spain (Jeremy Mathieu LONDON: England manager Roy thinking in particular of Dele Alli, but he did call Walcott, Everton of the three forthcoming friendlies and Kevin Gameiro), Manches- Hodgson said Marcus Rashford but I think that would apply also to defender Phil Jagielka and Man- against Turkey, Australia and Por- ter United and Crystal Palace could follow the example of Dele people like Danny Rose and (Eric) chester United midfielder Michael tugal, also defended his decision to in England (Morgan Schneider- Alli after naming the 18-year-old Dier and Jamie Vardy. Carrick to explain why they had not pick Wilshere. lin, Anthony Martial and Yohan Manchester United striker in his “If you remember, Jamie Vardy been selected. The 24-year-old central mid- Cabaye), Juventus and AC Milan in provisional Euro 2016 squad on now is on everybody’s lips, but he In Jagielka’s absence, Hodgson fielder only made his first start of Italy (Paul Pogba and Patrice Evra) Monday. wasn’t a year ago in June when I picked only three recognised cen- the season in Arsenal’s 4-0 win over and Bayern Munich and Borussia Rashford only made his senior selected him. Then he was a major tre-backs in Chelsea’s Gary Cahill, Aston Villa on Sunday, having been Dortmund in Germany (Kingsley United debut in February, but hav- surprise.” Everton’s John Stones and Chris sidelined since August with a frac- Coman).Those players will link ing scored seven goals in his first 16 Hodgson was speaking to jour- Smalling of Manchester United. tured shin. up with the team at Clairefon- appearances, he now has an outside nalists at Wembley after unveiling Eric Dier can also slot in at “He’s there on merit. He’s a taine from May 24 with Atletico chance of making Hodgson’s final his provisional 26-man squad, centre-back, having been playing special player,” Hodgson said. “We Madrid’s Antoine Griezmann and squad for the tournament in France. which must be reduced to 23 by there until he was converted into a don’t have lots and lots of Jack Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane the Alli, 20, was playing third-tier the end of the month. holding midfielder by Tottenham Wilsheres available. There are other final pair to join Les Bleus after football for Milton Keynes Dons last As well as Rashford, there was manager Mauricio Pochettino this areas of the field where my choice the Champions League final in season, but the Tottenham Hotspur also a place for in-form Newcastle season. is very great. Milan on May 28. The group will starlet is now a potential England United winger Andros Townsend, England managers past have “But for Jack Wilshere it’s a bit be complete for the first friendly starter, convincing Hodgson of the who was preferred to Arsenal’s been able to call upon central different, so he deserves a chance on May 30 against Cameroon in value of selection gambles. Theo Walcott as the replacement defenders of the calibre of John to show that he’s fit and capable of Nantes. The following day the eight Asked if it might be a case of for Walcott’s injured club-mate Terry, Rio Ferdinand and Sol Camp- playing at the level he played when England football manager Roy Hodgson standby players -- Aréola, Sidibé, ‘too much, too soon’ for Rashford, Danny Welbeck. bell, but Hodgson said that he was he was playing for us in the autumn. Ben Arfa, Lacazette, Schneiderlin, Hodgson replied: “We’ll see. That’s Arsenal midfielder Jack happy with the defensive options “I’ve got at least a couple of speaks at a press conference where he Gameiro, Rabiot and Umtiti -- will always a danger, I suppose. The Wilshere and Liverpool captain Jor- at his disposal. matches where I can test those named the provisional 26-man England leave the side unless called in to alternative of course is that because dan Henderson were also selected, “I wouldn’t call it a crisis at things out, as well as the training squad for Euro 2016 at Wembley Stadium replace an injured player. you’re fearful of that danger, you despite only recently returning centre-back,” he said. “I believe sessions.” in London on Monday. 32 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 SPORT Sevilla eyes Europa League treble

Liverpool midfielder Emre Can believes the Reds’ legendary battling qualities can help end their 11-year wait for a continental trophy

AFP

BASEL, Switzerland: Liverpool mid- fielder Emre Can believes the Reds’ legendary battling qualities can help end their 11-year wait for a continental trophy against treble-chasing Sevilla in today’s Europa League final. In their first European final since defeat to AC Milan in the 2007 Cham- pions League, Liverpool are bidding to scupper the Spanish side’s bid for an Sevilla’s President, Jose Castro (centre), poses next to two mannequins that wear the team’s shirts for unprecedented third straight Europa League title at Basel’s St. Jakob-Park. the UEFA Europa League final match in Seville, Spain, yesterday. Sevilla will face Liverpool in today’s final. It brings Liverpool’s breathtak- RIGHT: Liverpool FC players and officials arriving at Basel airport ahead of the UEFA Europa League final. ing journey through the competition under new manager Jurgen Klopp to a thrilling climax, following dramatic required against the tough La Liga overcoming a three-goal half-time League, is available having come wins over Manchester United, Borus- side. deficit to AC Milan to force the Ital- through training unscathed on Mon- sia Dortmund and Villarreal in recent “Sevilla know how to play in the ians into extra time then penalty day after a suffering ankle injury at months. Europa League,” Can told Liverpool’s kicks, winning their fourth title 3-2 the weekend. After seeing his side sink Vil- website. “They’ve won the last two from the spot. Sevilla may have the added larreal brilliantly to reach the final, Europa League titles, and so it will After Milan took revenge with a pressure of facing Barcelona in the Klopp declared: “To go to a final you be a very tough game, but if we show 2-1 Champions League triumph in Spanish Cup final on Sunday, but need a little bit of luck in decisive what we are able to do as a team then 2007, Liverpool now have the chance coach Unai Emery insisted: “We have moments, but most of the time you we can win the final.” to silver-line an encouraging first sea- the chance to play two finals and, need outstanding performances. Five-time European champions son for Klopp at Anfield. despite the difficulty our opponents “Now we are there, and it’s a great Liverpool, who have also won the With a Champions League spot will cause us, the team is determined opportunity and we will take it.” Europa League and its predecessor the also offered to Wednesday’s winner, and determined to enjoy it.” past experiences will prove decisive. winners’ medals from Champi- Liverpool’s fans should be getting UEFA Cup three times, have often pro- the German has pulled out all the In comments to uefa.com, he “Liverpool are an historic club ons League finals, but as part excited, but as the only team to suc- vided drama on the European stage. stops. He rotated his entire starting added: “The fact that this is our third with great players,” the French striker of Bayern Munich’s squad the cessfully defend the trophy on two On their last Europa League suc- XI for the 1-1 draw at West Brom on consecutive final demonstrates how told Sevilla’s website. 22-year-old did not even get to occasions, in 2007 and 2015, and cess, in 2001, they triumphed after a Sunday, meaning he welcomes back focused and hungry we have been to “It’s exciting... and they’ll make life lace up his boots, in 2012 and with a record four UEFA Cup/Europa nine-goal thriller against Deportivo the big guns. do well in the Europa League, and hard for us, but we’ve been together 2013 respectively. League titles, silky-smooth Sevilla are Alaves only after Delfi Geli scored a Captain Jordan Henderson is also win it.” for a number of years and we know He added: “I want to win that final arguably under less pressure. late own goal. poised to start after returning from a Kevin Gameiro, Sevilla’s top how to play these games.” and my first trophy with Liverpool. I Can wants to seize his chance in Four years later, Liverpool staged knee ligament problem at West Brom, scorer this season with 28 goals Can, meanwhile, has one extra will give my best, the team will give his first final with the club, but says arguably the greatest comeback in while Divock Origi, preferred to Dan- including seven in eight Europa incentive. its best and then we want to win the a collective show of force will be Champions League final history by iel Sturridge up front in the Europa League outings, believes his side’s He already owns losers’ and game and hopefully we will do it.”

Sanchez, Vidal Alaba wants to bid farewell to head strong Guardiola with seventh title Chile Copa squad

AFP Agencies back,” said Alaba. “A final in Berlin is on loan from Atletico Madrid at the always something special. The antic- start of the 2014/15 season and the ipation is really big for all of us.” German club has signed a contract SANTIAGO: Alexis Sanchez and Bayern have a few injury con- with the Frenchman until 2019. Arturo Vidal were named in a BERLIN: David Alaba says that Bay- cerns, with Spaniards Xabi Alonso “I’m happy that I will continue strong 23-man Chile squad on ern Munich are determined to give and Javi Martinez both struggling to play at VfL Wolfsburg and can be Monday for next month’s Copa Pep Guardiola a winning send-off with knocks. part of his great club. It was always America Centenario. and a seventh title in three years in There is a question-mark over my wish to stay here longer,” he Chile boss Juan Antonio Pizzi Saturday’s German Cup final. Martinez, who has an ankle injury, said. will rely heavily on the core of the Bayern face Borussia Dortmund and Alonso is rated ‘50-50’ with a rib “I want to help permanently side which lifted last year’s Copa at Berlin’s Olympic Stadium in what injury, but trained on Tuesday. establish VfL at the top of the Bun- America when the South American will be Guardiola’s final game in Bayern are looking to become desliga, so that we can play regular showpiece kicks off in the United charge before taking over at Man- German Cup winners for the 18th Champions League football.” States on June 3. chester City next season. time and will meet their nearest chal- Guilavogui has played in 30 of Arsenal star Sanchez and Bay- “We want to put everything into lengers from the league campaign. Wolfsburg’s 34 league games this ern Munich midfielder Vidal will it once more to give him a gift,” said Dortmund were routed 5-1 in season and started their 2-0 win over join other veterans of the suc- left-back Alaba on Tuesday. Munich last October in the league, Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, cessful 2015 campaign including Bayern were presented with the before holding Munich to a goalless first-leg, of the Champions League Claudio Bravo, Gary Medel and German league title when the season draw at Borussia’s Signal Iduna Park before bowing out after a 3-0 defeat Charles Aranguiz. finished on Saturday as they became in March. in Spain. Guilavogui has made seven However there was no place the first club to win the Bundesliga “In Berlin, Germany’s top two appearances for France, but has not for talented playmaker Jorge Val- four years in a row. teams will meet each other,” said been nominated for their Euro 2016 divia, a key member of last year’s It was Guardiola’s sixth title in Bayern’s Germany goalkeeper squad. winning Copa team. Valdivia, 32, three years in Munich and his 20th Manuel Neuer. “We are very pleased that we signed a lucrative deal with United as a coach, having won 14 trophies in “Everything that has gone before were able to sign Josuha perma- Arab Emirates club Al Wahda last four years with Barcelona. -- that we’re the league champions nently,” said Wolfsburg’s director of year, leaving Brazilian giants Pal- He ended with 82 wins for Bay- -- will count for nothing. sport Klaus Allofs. meiras after five seasons. ern in his 102 league matches to give “Every little detail can make a “He has shown in the last two Squad: Goalkeepers: Clau- him the highest win-ratio in the his- difference. I like that, for me it’s pos- years that he fits Wolfsburg both as dio Bravo (Barcelona/ESP), Johnny tory of the Bundesliga. itive pressure.” a person and an athlete. Herrera (Universidad Chile/CHI), Alaba said the Bayern squad Meanwhile, French midfielder “For us, it was always clear that Cristopher Toselli (Universidad had no problems switching off from Josuha Guilavogui says his goal is to we wanted to keep him, because his Catolica/CHI) Defenders: Mauri- party mode, having celebrated the see Wolfsburg play regular Cham- development isn’t over yet.” cio Isla (Marseille/FRA), Jose Pedro league title with their fans at Munich’s pions League football after signing Wolfsburg finished as runners- Fuenzalida (Universidad Catolica/ Marienplatz, as they knuckled down a permanent three-year deal, fol- up to Bayern Munich in the German CHI), Gonzalo Jara (Universidad Bayern Munich’s Spanish headcoach Pep Guardiola holds a gift to prepare for the Berlin final. lowing two seasons on loan in the league during Guilavogui’s first sea- Chile/CHI), Gary Medel (Inter “We’re motivated, ambitious and Bundesliga. son in 2014/15 and lifted the German prior to the German first division Bundesliga football match against Milan/ITA), Enzo Roco (Espanyol/ hungry, so it’s not been hard to switch The 25-year-old joined Wolfsburg Cup last season. Hannover 96 in Munich, southern Germany, on Saturday. ESP), Eugenio Mena (Sao Paulo/ BRA), Jean Beausejour (Colo-Colo/ CHI) Midfielders: Marcelo Diaz (Celta Vigo/ESP), Francisco Silva (Chiapas/MEX), Erick Pulgar (Bolo- Cahill back in revamped Australia squad for Greece games gna/ITA), Arturo Vidal (Bayern Munich/GER), Matias Fernandez (Fiorentina/ITA), Charles Aranguiz (Bayer Leverkusen/GER), Pedro Reuters miss the Socceroos’ upcoming match because it takes place outside FIFA’s Along with Cahill, Postecoglou it’s important to confront a range Pablo Hernandez (Celta Vigo/ESP) against England due to club commit- international window. has also brought back Trent Sainsbury of styles,” Postecoglou said. “The Forwards: Fabian Orellana ments in China. However, the games against and Matthew Spiranovic among 10 matches against Greece are about (Celta Vigo/ESP), Edson Puch (Uni- Socceroos head coach Ange Greece, in Sydney on June 4 and Mel- changes from the squad for the Eng- continuing to expose our players to versidad de Quito/ECU), Alexis SYDNEY: Former Everton striker Postecoglou last week named a squad bourne three days later, fall within land match. a high level of international football. Sanchez (Arsenal/ENG), Mauri- Tim Cahill has been recalled to the for the May 27 match against Eng- the window, which means clubs have “The Asian Cup and the first round Australia secured a place in the final cio Pinilla (Atalanta/ITA), Nicolas Australia squad for next month’s land at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light a duty to release their international of World Cup qualifiers put our focus round of Asian qualifying for the 2018 Castillo (Universidad Catolica/CHI), friendlies with Greece after having to shorn of several experienced players players. on Asian teams and conditions, but World Cup finals in Russia in March. Eduardo Vargas (Hoffenheim/GER) SPORT WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 33 Uncapped trio makes Germany’s Euro squad

French Embassy in Berlin and 14 of Champions League,” said Loew. the squad which won the 2014 World “Leroy (Sane) has exceptional Few surprises in Cup have been included. Germany’s skills and can bring something spe- Loew’s squad with 14 captain and midfield general Bastian cial to a game. of the squad which Schweinsteiger, who has 114 caps, has “Julian (Weigl) has played well in been included as he recovers from a midfield with Borussia Dortmund, he won the 2014 World torn medial knee ligament. has unbelievable vision and is safe Cup have been given “We’ll have to wait and see when on the ball. he can train with us. He is back to “Julian (Brandt) is technically tickets to France full running training, but we have to very good and quick.” work out when he can train with the Germany will start their pre-Euro team,” said Loew. 2016 training camp in Ascona, Swit- “We want to see first how he zerland, next Monday and as well as AFP trains up until May 31, then we have Ukraine, they face Poland and North- to work out how much work he will ern Ireland in Group C at Euro 2016. have to do before the beginning of Germany squad the tournament. Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer BERLIN: Uncapped midfielders “He’s important for us, even if (Bayern Munich), Bernd Leno (Bayer Joshua Kimmich, Julian Brandt and he might not make it for the first Leverkusen), Marc-Andre ter Stegen Julian Weigl were yesterday included game.” Loew has also opted to (Barcelona/ESP) in Germany’s provisional 27-man include Galatasaray forward Lukas Defenders: Jerome Boateng (Bay- squad for next month’s European Podolski who has made 127 appear- ern Munich), Emre Can (Liverpool/ championships in France. ances in the famous white shirt. Both ENG), Jonas Hector (Cologne), Ben- Defensive midfielder Kimmich, Schweinsteiger, 31, and Podolski, 30, edikt Hoewedes (Schalke 04), Mats 21, caps a meteoric rise having only will be playing in their fourth Euro- Hummels (Borussia Dortmund), broken into Bayern Munich’s first pean championships. Shkodran Mustafi (Valencia/ESP), team earlier this season and has Mario Gomez of Fiorentina, Sebastian Rudy (Hoffenheim), Anto- been now promoted from Germany’s who spent the last season on loan nio Ruediger (AS Roma/ITA) Italy’s national football team coach Antonio Conte smiling as he attends the presentation of the new jersey Under-21 team, as has 20-year-old at Besiktas, is the only out-and-out Midfielders: Karim Bellarabi Bayer Leverkusen winger Julian striker included in the squad. (Bayer Leverkusen), Julian Brandt of the Italian team for the Euro 2016 tournament, at the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, in this file picture Brandt. Loew has explained why he opted (Bayer Leverkusen), Julian Drax- of November 2015. Like Kimmich, Borussia Dort- for the uncapped trio Brandt, Kim- ler (Wolfsburg), Mario Goetze mund’s defensive midfielder mich and Weigl, while Schalke’s (Bayern Munich), Sami Khedira Weigl, 20, has made the national Leroy Sane has only made one pre- (Juventus/ITA), Joshua Kimmich team after just a full season in the vious appearance for Germany. (Bayern Munich), Toni Kroos (Real No Pirlo as Conte names Bundesliga. Brandt caught the eye by scoring Madrid), Thomas Mueller (Bayern Head coach Joachim Loew has in six consecutive league games for Munich), Mesut Ozil (Arsenal/ENG), up until May 31 to cut his squad from Leverkusen at the end of the season Lukas Podolski (Galatasaray/TUR), 27 to 23 while Germany play home while Sane impressed at the start of Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund), friendlies against Slovakia on May the season with a series of eye-catch- Leroy Sane (Schalke 04), Andre provisional Italy squad 29, then Hungary on June 4, before ing performances. Schuerrle (Wolfsburg), Bastian Sch- their opening Euro 2016 game against “Joshua (Kimmich) can play in weinsteiger (Manchester United/ENG), Ukraine on June 12. defence, in defensive midfield or Julian Weigl (Borussia Dortmund) There were few surprises in out on the wing. He has played at a Striker: Mario Gomez AFP Italy’s first round exit from the 2014 Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini (both Loew’s squad, announced at the high level with Bayern, even in the (Fiorentina/ITA) World Cup, was a notable, although Juventus), Luca Antonelli (Milan), not a surprise, absentee. midfielders Thiago Motta (PSG) and Since his move from Juventus to Riccardo Montolivo (Milan), goal- MILAN: Italy veteran Andrea Pirlo New York City, Pirlo has fallen out keeper Salvatore Sirigu (PSG) and was among the absentees as coach of favour amid reports he is lack- Manchester United fullback Matteo Antonio Conte named a provisional ing the required fitness. It now looks Darmian. 28-man squad on Monday for a pre- increasingly unlikely he will play at The 46-year-old Conte will take Euro 2016 training camp with several Euro 2016. over as Chelsea manager after the stars absent with Cup finals to play. Conte has rewarded Domenico June 10-July 10 tournament in France Conte, who earlier Monday was Berardi for a string of fine goals- in which Italy face Belgium, Sweden cleared of sporting fraud charges coring performances with Serie A and the Republic of Ireland in Group relating to a match-fixing affair minnows Sassuolo, who pipped AC E. while he was coach of Serie B Milan to sixth place and a possible Squad: Goalkeepers: Federico team Siena in 2011, can now fully spot in next season’s Europa League. Marchetti (Lazio), Antonio Mirante focus on the Azzurri although Toronto striker Sebastian Gio- (Bologna), Marco Sportiello (Atalanta) questions remain over his final vinco, who played under Conte at Defenders: Francesco 23-man squad. Juventus, has been recalled while Acerbi (Sassuolo), Davide Astori Italy players yet to play Cup finals Sunderland’s Fabio Borini, who fea- (Fiorentina), Leonardo Bonucci -- namely those with Juventus, AC tured at Euro 2012 without playing (Juventus), Armando Izzo (Genoa), Milan, Paris Saint Germain and Man- a game, has been given the nod by Angelo Obinze Ogbonna (West Ham/ chester United -- were left out of the Conte for the first time. ENG), Lorenzo Tonelli (Empoli) reckoning altogether, meaning Con- Conte called up a total of seven Midfielders: Marco Benassi te’s final squad on May 31 could look players who had never graced (Torino), Federico Bernardeschi very different. the Italy squad in Atalanta goal- (Fiorentina), Antonio Candreva Defender Leonardo Bonucci was keeper Marco Sportiello, Genoa (Lazio), Danilo Cataldi (Lazio), the only Juventus player included defender Armando Izzo, Empoli Daniele De Rossi (Roma), Lorenzo for the first training camp begin- defender Lorenzo Tonelli, midfield- De Silvestri (Sampdoria), Stephan ning Wednesday at Coverciano near ers Marco Benassi (Torino), Danilo El Shaarawy (Roma), Alessandro Florence because he is suspended for Cataldi (Lazio), Davide Zappacosta Florenzi (Roma), Emanuele Giac- the Italian Cup final against AC Milan (Torino) and Genoa striker Leonardo cherini (Bologna), Jorge Luiz Jorginho on May 21. Pavoletti. (Napoli), Marco Parolo (Lazio), Rob- With midfielders Claudio Mar- Three other players, other than erto Soriano (Sampdoria), Davide chisio (Juventus) and Marco Verratti Borini, return to the fray in goal- Zappacosta (Torino) German national team coach Joachim Loew announces the German squad for Euro 2016 during a news (PSG) ruled out through serious keepers Antonio Mirante (Bologna), Forwards: Fabio Borini (Sun- conference in Berlin, Germany, yesterday. RIGHT: A combo made with recent file pictures shows (from injury, there is a place for Roma’s Federico Marchetti (Lazio) and West derland/ENG), Citadin Martins Eder above left to bottom right) German first division Bundesliga team Leverkusen’s goalkeeper Bernd Leno, tough-tackling defensive midfielder Ham defender Angelo Ogbonna. (Inter Milan), Ciro Immobile (Torino), Leverkusen forward Julian Brandt, Bayern Munich’s midfielder Joshua Kimmich and Dortmund’s midfielder Daniele de Rossi. Among the notable absentees due Lorenzo Insigne (Napoli), Leonardo Julian Weigl. Leno, Brandt, Kimmich and Weigl are the four youngsters in the German provisional squad World Cup winner Pirlo, 36, who to Cup duty are goalkeeper Gianluigi Pavoletti (Genoa), Graziano Pellè for the Euro 2016 in France announced by head coach Loew. had came out of retirement following Buffon (Juventus), defenders Andrea (Southampton/ENG). Five reasons why Spanish clubs dominate Europe

AFP However, that also has a drip European competition. Diego Sime- have gone far in recent years has been down effect that raises the standard of one’s (pictured) Atletico Madrid a reliance of a core group of homeg- the league. Other clubs have the expe- couldn’t be more opposed to the Bar- rown players. rience of facing the best in the world celona-model in terms of style, but Producing their own top class tal- MADRID: Sevilla look to continue the at least four times a season. Travel- their rock-solid defensive structure ent obviously saves the clubs money reign of Spain in European competi- ling to face the best Italy, Germany has stifled Europe’s best. in the long run, but also fosters a unity tion when they face Liverpool in the or England has to offer isn’t nearly as Real Madrid, Sevilla and Villarreal and spirit often lacking when super- Europa League final today aiming to intimating as a visit to the Camp Nou are all deadly on the counter-attack, star talents from around the world are win the competition for a third con- or Santiago Bernabeu. Athletic Bilbao - kings of the set-piece. merely thrown into the same team. secutive season. Moreover, many fine players That variation makes Spanish “Spanish teams work very well at An all-Madrid Champions League brought through the Barca and Real sides far more unpredictable than the academy level,” Spain coach Vice- final for the second time in three years academies are squeezed out by the many of the European rivals. nte del Bosque said. between Real and Atletico Madrid on competition they face for places, but Whilst Barca and Madrid can “From there, with the improve- May 28 will ensure a Spanish winner go onto make their name with other count on their multi-million euro ment of coaching too, it has improved of Europe’s premier club competition Spanish clubs. budgets, the rest still have to consist- the standard at club and international for a third straight year. The Spanish national team’s suc- ently sell their best players to Spain’s level.” Indeed, until Villarreal’s defeat to cess in winning three consecutive big two, or increasingly, England’s Spain’s thirst for the Europa Liverpool in the Europa League semis, major tournaments between 2008 cash-rich Premier League. League with six wins and three Spanish clubs had won all 17 of their and 2012 was based around the However, the structure of long- other runs to the final in the past knockout ties against non-Spanish “tiki-taka” short passing style also standing sporting directors who 10 years has meant a series of clubs opposition this season. commonly associated with Barcelona. oversee the clubs’ recruitment -- even now know how to handle the eccen- Here are the five reasons for “Football in Spain is a very tech- as coaches come and go -- has seen tricities of European ties and how Spain’s prolonged domination of nical game. The best football is here,” Atletico and Sevilla in particular con- to balance those commitments with European competition. said Manchester City manager Manuel tinue to thrive. keeping their La Liga campaigns on Barcelona and Real Madrid’s Pellegrini, whose side was dumped Sevilla’s director of football Mon- track. sustained success is the easiest to out of the Champions League semi- chi has been a target for Liverpool Spain’s lower divisions at knockdown thrive in bringing in talent from Por- In the last five years Atletico have understand. They are the two richest finals by Real Madrid. and Barcelona in the past given his prices. tugal and South America thanks to played 63 European ties, followed by clubs in the world with the capacity Yet, it is the tactical variety of penchant to pluck outstanding tal- Atletico were previously serial close ties with Portuguese super agent Real Madrid on 62, Barcelona 57, to continually invest the world’s best a number of skilled coaches that ents from Europe’s lesser leagues in users of the now outlawed third party Jorge Mendes. Sevilla 53, Athletic Bilbao 52 and players. has worked for Spanish teams in France, Portugal, Ukraine and even ownership system, but continue to A key to all the Spanish sides who Valencia on 48. 34 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 SPORT

England’s Vince determined to Star batsman Root scoops enjoy Test debut AFP

LEEDS, UNITED KINGDOM: England’s James Vince said yes- three awards in England terday he was determined to enjoy his Test debut come what may at Headingley this week. The Hampshire batsman is England’s Joe Root tweaks you can make to improve. in line to fill the middle-order The 25-year-old is seen during a net There’s plenty on the horizon for me vacancy created by the shock to work at. retirement of James Taylor with a scored two Ashes session at Headingley Leeds, England, “The rankings look after them- heart condition last month, when tons, four centuries yesterday. England selves. If you’re playing well for the first of a three-Test series England - and scoring runs for Eng- against Sri Lanka starts at York- host Sri Lanka in their in ODIS and was land - it takes care of itself. It’s not shire’s headquarters in Leeds, first Test starting team’s leading scorer really a target. When it comes to Kane northern England, tomorrow. tomorrow. Williamson, Virat Kohli and Steve Vince, 25, has been compared at T20 World Cup Smith, I try and look and learn from to former England captain Michael them all the time. They are the best Vaughan because of his batting in the world and I know I can learn style and there is also the view that from what they do and how they go he too will thrive in international about things.” cricket despite a solid rather than AFP “Each of the players honoured spectacular county record. tonight has made a big contribution Now Vince, who has already to England cricket, helping to win played limited overs cricket for LONDON: Joe Root was named Test matches and to inspire a wider audi- England, is looking forward to see- Player of the Year, Limited Overs ence and deserves the highest praise.” ing if he can make the step up to Player of the Year and Fans’ Player of “The pain of those defeats helped Test cricket. the Year at England’s annual awards spur me on. You need that desire and “I hope so, I’ll soon find out,” ceremony on Monday night. that hunger. You learn from the mis- he told Sky Sports News at Head- The Yorkshire batsman, 25, hit takes you make. You learn from the ingley yesterday. “I just want to two centuries in England’s Ashes tri- bad games and the bad tours. try to enjoy every second and do umph last year, scored four one-day “And, when things are going well, well, and just to be here and a part tons and was his team’s leading scorer you think about that and you make of this team is very exciting. at the recent World Twenty20 tour- the most of it. You don’t get lazy; you “I had dinner last (Monday) nament in India. don’t rest on your laurels. You make night (with the team) and that’s He overcame competition from it count. This game can be brutal. As sort of when it sank in, really. It’s Stuart Broad and Ben Stokes for the “Coming out of the Ashes in the post. “To have had such a strong contributed makes me really pleased soon as you get comfortable, it bites great to be here and I can’t wait to Test award and edged Jos Buttler and 2013-14 and the World Cup in 2015 I Ashes series was really pleasing as and proud. You can’t win these per- you. You have to stay on it all the get going now. David Willey in the Limited Overs cat- realised how much I wanted to be a Australia were the one side who I’d sonal awards without great people time.” “Hopefully I get the chance to egory, with both prizes decided upon force in international cricket,” Root not really scored big runs against. I - and great team players - around you. The awards were handed out at play on Thursday and if I do get by a media poll. said in a report posted on cricinfo. was very keen to put that right. These personal awards are great, but a celebratory dinner in the northern the chance to play it’ll be a very “It’s been a remarkable year for com. “I knew then how much work “Then going to South Africa and they don’t mean as much as the ones English city of Leeds, which stages proud moment.” our international teams,” said Eng- I was going to have to put in if that coming away with a Test series win you win together.” England’s first Test against Sri Lanka Headingley holds happy mem- land and Wales Cricket Board CEO was going to be the case. And I have was a fantastic effort from all the Root said he was surprised by later this week. ories for Vince as it was only last Tom Harrison. worked very hard. players and it gives us a lot of confi- how quickly he reached the No. 1 Test Somerset’s Anya Shrubsole month that the Hampshire captain “The women’s Ashes attracted “The World Cup was probably the dence going into this summer. If we ranking. was voted Women’s Player of the scored a hundred there against record attendances and unprece- lowest point. It was tough to take; an win these two series, I believe we “It surprised me to reach that tar- Year, with veteran England skipper county champions Yorkshire. dented levels of media interest, our incredibly frustrating tour. The thing hold every (bilateral series Test) tro- get, to be honest,” Root said. “I know Charlotte Edwards, who recently “Coming here with some runs physical disability team won the inau- was, we had everything there: it was phy across world cricket. that my cricket can develop so much announced her international retire- under my belt this season should gural Physical Disability World Cup all starting to come together. But it “The reason you play is to con- more. There are so many areas that ment, taking home the fans’ prize. give me some confidence going in Bangladesh and our men’s team was probably a year too soon,” Root tribute to England winning,” he said. I have to keep working on and keep There was also a Special Achieve- into the game on Thursday,” he regained the Ashes, won a major Test said. “During the last 12 months or improving. I don’t think you’re ever ment Award for former England coach said. series in South Africa and reached the “It’s hard to look past winning the so, we’ve come a long way and kept happy as a batter: there as always turned Sky Sports commentator David final of the World T20 tournament. Ashes as a highlight,” Root added in improving. To be able to say I’ve more runs you can get and more Lloyd. PCB mulls Sri Lanka as venue ‘Superhero’ Kohli smashes for WI series IPL runs record Agencies

AFP LAHORE: The PCB has sought a financial estimate from Sri Lanka NEW DELHI: Red-hot Virat Kohli smashed an unbeaten half-century to Cricket in relation to Sri Lanka break Chris Gayle’s record for the most runs in a single Indian Premier hosting Pakistan’s home series League season. against West Indies in October Kohli, captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore, has racked up 752 this year. runs in 12 matches so far this year including three centuries and five 50s. The series, comprising two Kohli’s 75-run blitz on Monday kept the Challengers’ play-off hopes alive Tests, three ODIs and a Twenty20, after they crushed the Kolkata Knight Riders by nine wickets. is scheduled to be held in the UAE, The Indian batsman overtakes the powerful Gayle, who scored 733 runs but because of the high costs of in 15 matches in 2012, while Australia’s Mike Hussey tallied the same fig- playing in the UAE, the PCB is ure in 17 games in 2013. mulling Sri Lanka as an alterna- Kohli, who batted with an injured finger, stitched together a 115-run tive venue. unbeaten stand with AB de Villiers (59). “We are concerned about ris- Their partnership comes just two days after they recorded the highest ing costs of hosting matches in partnership (229) in Twenty20 cricket history during the Challengers’ match Sri Lanka’s Kusal Mendi the UAE, and if Sri Lanka is sig- against the Gujarat Lions. walks out for a batting nificantly cheaper then we shall Team-mate Gayle, who also found form at Eden Gardens with a 31-ball session during net consider it as an option,” a PCB 49, paid credit to the in-form duo. practice at Headingley spokesman told ESPNcricinfo. “Those two guys are playing like Batman and Superman. They are in the Leeds, England, SLC secretary Mohan de form of their life,” said the Jamaican. yesterday. Silva also confirmed the PCB’s approach: “Yes, they have approached us. We will put the budget together and send it back to them. It will depend on whether it is a financially viable option for them to host a series here.” T20 drama to make Stokes Pakistan has largely remained a no-go zone for international teams since March 3, 2009, when gunmen attacked the Sri Lankan team bus during the Lahore Test. a better cricketer: Broad Since then, the UAE has hosted a majority of Pakistan’s home series, with only Afghanistan and Zim- babwe visiting Pakistan for one Reuters told British media. “You’re dead right, The 30-year-old, who is ranked series each. people would have been sat there third in Tests, was forced out of a boot A report on cricinfo.com, said thinking: ‘Why did you go that way?’ camp in the city of Abbottabad after the UAE has not been dropped as LONDON: England all-rounder Ben “But you’ve got to go with what experiencing pain in his left knee. venue, but the PCB is keen to weigh Stokes will learn from his dread- you feel is your strength, so as a The Pakistan Cricket Board up other options. The idea of play- ful World Twenty20 experience and player you’ll always have things you (PCB) said in a statement a scan had ing elsewhere emerged after the come back a stronger player, team are confident in. I prefer a player to revealed a minor injury. Pakistan Super League was held mate Stuart Broad has said. get it wrong going for something they Shah has been Pakistan’s lead- in Dubai and Sharjah in February; Stokes was hit for four succes- believe is their strength than going to ing bowler in Tests in recent times it cost the PCB more than $3m to sive sixes by West Indies’ Carlos something that isn’t. and his participation is seen as key stage the tournament over two Brathwaite in the last over of the T20 “Don’t be surprised if Stokesy for the team’s chances in the four- weeks. It is understood that offi- final, the onslaught ending England’s now performs at a really high level Test series in England from July 14. cials from Dubai Sports City and hopes of a second title. because he’ll realise what went He has so far taken 76 wickets the Sharjah stadium met PCB offi- Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Broad, the world’s top-ranked wrong and channel it the right way in 12 Tests. cials in Lahore to ask for increased Virat Kohli celebrates after scoring a Test bowler, was famously blasted -- he has an amazing talent.” Shah took 49 wickets in 2015 venue costs for the bilateral series. half-century (50 runs) during the 2016 for six sixes by India’s Yuvraj Singh M e a n w h i l e , P a k i s t a n a c e l e g which helped Pakistan jump to sec- The PCB had been sharing rev- Indian Premier League (IPL) Twenty20 in the 2007 tournament but used the spinner Yasir Shah needs four to five ond in the Test rankings. enues from gate money, ticketing match against Kolkata Knight Riders at setback as motivation and has backed weeks to recover from a knee injury, Fifteen of them came in Paki- and hospitality boxes with ven- the Eden Gardens Cricket Stadium in Stokes to follow suit. officials said, putting him on track stan’s 2-0 win over England in the ues in the UAE previously, while Kolkata on Monday. “I wouldn’t be the bowler I am for the team’s Test summer tour of three-Test series in the United Arab the PSL was hosted with a rental now without that experience,” Broad England. Emirates. agreement. SPORT WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016 35

China’s Lin Dan celebrates after defeating Denmark’s Jan Jorgensen in the men’s singles semi-final Chinese star Lin vows to ‘find of the Malaysia Open Badminton Superseries in Kuala Lumpur in this rhythm’ after Thomas Cup scare file photo.

AFP after dropping the first game to championships. The sport’s pre-eminent France’s Lucas Corvee before “I will do my best,” the two- nation were stunned two years storming back to win 20-22, time Olympic gold medallist ago in the semi-finals by Japan, 21-14, 21-8. said. who then beat Malaysia to KUNSHAN: Chinese badminton “I didn’t expect to win this Despite Lin’s slow start, secure the country’s first Tho- legend Lin Dan vowed to find match in such a tough way,” said the Chinese men walloped mas Cup victory. his Thomas Cup “rhythm” after Lin, according to Xinhua. the French national team 5-0, However, the odds are not scrambling to salvage a three- “But it doesn’t mean that I securing a spot in the tourna- in the Japanese favour in Kun- game win over an unknown played badly, this match will ment’s quarter finals. shan this week after the star French opponent at the world help me to get fit and find my After sweeping France and of the 2014 Thomas Cup Kento team championship in Kunshan, rhythm.” Mexico, the tournament favour- Momota was axed by authorities China. Following the sub-par per- ites and home nation are set to in April over a gambling scandal. The world number three formance the 32-year-old square off with Japan today, China’s men won the Tho- described his Monday night vowed to give his all during his where they’ll be hungry to mas Cup five times in a row until opening match as “tough”, eighth appearance at the team avenge the shock 2014 defeat. their defeat to Japan.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (centre) goes for a basket as Golden Crosby ends slump in OT State Warriors forward Draymond Green (left) defends during their NBA Western Conference finals basketball game one at the Oracle Arena as Pens even East finals in Oakland, California, USA on Monday.

Agencies NHL PLAY-OFF RESULTS: CONFERENCE FINALS (Best-of-7) PITTSBURGH: Sidney Crosby scored his first goal in nine games 40 St. Louis 2, San Jose 1 seconds into overtime as the Pitts- St. Louis lead series 1-0 burgh Penguins beat the Tampa Bay Lightning 3-2 in Game Two of the Pittsburgh 3, Tampa Bay 2, OT Eastern Conference finals on Mon- series tied 1-1 day to even the series. The Penguins, who squandered a two-goal lead before getting the back in the lineup for the first time winner in overtime, now head to since breaking his left leg on March Tampa for Game 3 in the best-of- 25, got the comeback started by seven series today. gathering a bouncing puck and lift- Penguins coach Mike Sullivan ing it under the crossbar at 16:37. shook up his lines late in the game Stralman needed only a moment to try to get his stars going, and to get open, and that occurred when Crosby came through by putting a Crosby and Conor Sheary bumped shot under the crossbar to win it. into each other just as Crosby was Pittsburgh pressed from the skating toward Stralman, who start of the extra period, and Crosby scored his fifth goal in four games emerged with his first overtime goal against Pittsburgh this season. in 113 playoff games. Jonathan Drouin tied it 2:33 later, Matt Murray won the battle of taking J.T. Brown’s pass at mid-ice, 21-year-old backup goaltenders, skating to the top of the left circle making 19 saves and not allowing a for a wrist shot and beating Murray goal after giving up two in a span of inside the far post. 2:33 in the first period. Drouin, in the lineup because of Lightning goalie Andrei Vasi- Steven Stamkos’ injury, has 11 points levskiy was exceptional, making in 12 playoff games after getting 10 38 saves, but it was not good enough. in 21 regular season games. Pittsburgh took all three of the either team scored in the second, shots in OT. when Murray kept the score tied with Westbrook’s heroics take The Penguins got off to exactly an excellent save on Killorn late in the start they wanted in what could the period. Cullen, who is having be viewed as a must-win game, get- an excellent postseason for Pitts- ting goals from Matt Cullen and Phil burgh at age 39, scored his fourth Kessel less than 10 minutes in. of the playoffs at 4:32 of the first, off However, with Vasilevskiy a rebound of an Eric Fehr shot. Thunders past Warriors turning aside several more excel- Kessel scored his 19th goal in 35 lent scoring chances -- including playoff games -- and sixth of these Bryan Rust on a rush off the open- playoffs -- about five minutes later ing faceoff -- the Lightning came after Carl Hagelin’s shot rebounded and edged clear once more. overtime winner as the Pittsburgh back after killing off Alex Killorn’s to Nick Bonino, whose pass deflected NBA: CONFERENCE FINALS The visitors received a fortunate Penguins downed the Tampa Bay holding penalty at 13:23. off Lightning defenseman Andrej Visitors silence the call when Westbrook avoided being Lightning to level finals series at 1-1 Defenseman Anton Stralman, Sustr’s skate directly to Kessel. Golden State home called for traveling at 105-102 with 17 on Monday. Crosby ended his eight- “I thought when we lost our seconds remaining, and three more game goal drought 40 seconds into crowd with a brilliant aggressiveness and our momentum points sealed the win as time ran out overtime as Pittsburgh recovered second-half fightback offensively in the second half, a lot for the Warriors. from squandering a two-goal lead to of that had to do with his speed and Kerr bemoaned a loss of com- haul themselves back into the series. aggressiveness,” the Warriors coach posure in the final quarter, when Crosby’s goal was his first in over- added. the Warriors made only one of 10 time in 113 career playoff games and AFP Golden State looked to be sprint- attempted three-pointers -- way gives the Penguins hope as they head ing away to a one-sided victory after below their normal levels of shoot- to Florida for Wednesday’s Game blasting into a commanding early in ing accuracy. Three. the first half, converting a series of “There were a lot of quick shots, “We were pretty confident all OAKLAND: Russell Westbrook rash Oklahoma City turnovers into way too many quick shots,” Kerr said. game that (we) deserved to win the inspired a second-half fightback as points. “Five minutes left in the game and game and that if we kept doing what the Oklahoma City Thunder came NBA MVP Stephen Curry -- who we’re down four points or whatever we were doing we would win the from behind to beat the Golden finished with 26 points -- rubbed salt and we were acting like we had 20 game -- and that’s what happened,” State Warriors 108-102 in the open- into the wound on the stroke of half- seconds left. Penguins rookie goalie Matt Murray ing game of the Western Conference time with a trademark long-range “Five minutes is an eternity. We said. finals on Monday. three-pointer to give the Warriors a know how we have to play. We have Crosby meanwhile paid tribute to Westbrook poured on 27 points 13-point lead. to pass and move and create rhythm the vision of Bryan Rust for setting up as the Thunder overturned a 60-47 But the Thunder re-emerged after for ourselves. his winner. Rust teed up Crosby per- halftime deficit to snatch victory in the halftime interval a different side, “I just felt we took way too many fectly for the goal after hearing the a pulsating clash between two of the with Westbrook leading the charge to quick ones which took us out of our Canadian star’s call. most potent attacking units in the slash the Warriors’ advantage with a rhythm.” “I didn’t think Rusty saw me, so Sidney Crosby NBA. virtuoso third quarter performance. Curry said the Warriors were I tried to let him know I was there,” (right) of the Westbrook also chipped in with 12 Westbrook piled up 19 points ready to respond after the opening Crosby said. Pittsburgh Penguins assists and six rebounds while team- in the third quarter to help put the loss. The winner was fitting reward celebrates with mate Kevin Durant finished with 26 Thunder within three points of the “It’s a long series,” Curry said. “It for a late spell of dominance by Pitts- team-mate Matt points as the visitors silenced the Warriors at 88-85 heading into the will be a different situation for us to burgh, who outshot Tampa 19-6 over Cullen after scoring Golden State home crowd at the Ora- fourth quarter. try to bounce back at this point in the the third period and overtime. a goal in overtime cle Arena. With Oklahoma City’s defense series having a deficit. So I think it’s All of the regulation time goals against Tampa Bay “It’s a game of two halves, man,” successfully neutralizing the threat fun to be able to have this opportu- came in the first period. Matt Cullen Lightning to win Westbrook said after the win. “We’re posed by Curry, it was left to Durant nity and show what we’re made of.” and Phil Kessel struck early on to put a great team. We didn’t play our best and Westbrook to take control. Thunder head coach Billy Dono- Pittsburgh 2-0 up before Tampa Bay Game Two of the game but we came out with a win.” Oklahoma City opened up a 101- van meanwhile praised his side’s came roaring back with goals from Eastern Conference Westbrook played a pivotal role 93 lead in the final few minutes but problem-solving abilities after a first- Anton Stralman and Jonathan Drouin Finals with a score on defense, time and again using his the reigning NBA finals champion half littered with errors. to make it 2-2 in a breathless opening of 3 to 2 during the blistering speed to pounce on stray Warriors clawed their way back to Game Two in the best of seven spell. Tampa Bay’s young goaltender 2016 NHL Stanley passes by the Warriors. within one point at 101-100. series takes place in Oakland on Andrei Vasilevskiy proved a defiant Cup Play-offs at “He’s probably the quickest guard Just when it looked as if Golden Wednesday. last line of defense, thwarting Pitts- the Consol Energy in the league,” Warriors coach Steve State were poised to pull off another Meanwhile, in the Eastern Con- burgh repeatedly to help take the Center on Monday. Kerr said of Westbrook. Houdini act, the Thunder regrouped ference, Sidney Crosby scored an game to overtime. 36 WEDNESDAY 18 MAY 2016

Al Shaqab Racing’s Jemayel victorious

QNA

PARIS: The Al Shaqab Racing owned Jemayel won the Pour Moi Coolmore Prix Saint-Alary (Gr1) at Deauville on Monday to secure her ticket for the Prix de Diane Longines (Gr1). After waiting in the lot, the filly came very fast along the inside rail and managed to take the advan- tage over Camprock, who loses her invincibility. Both fillies were only separated by a head on the finish An image of the Khalifa International Stadium is on display on the opening day of the World Stadium Congress in Doha yesterday. Organised by IQPC Middle East in partnership line. The British Hawksmoor, who with the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, the two-day event concludes today. Pictures by: Baher Amin / The Peninsula led the lot, kept the third place in front of Left Hand, who finishes very well. Jemayel had disappointed for her return this year in the Prix Fin- lande (L), where she only finished seventh. But at 2yos, the filly came Qatar leads global stadia innovation second of the Prix des Reservoirs (Gr3) on this track. Jemayel is trained by Jean- Claude Rouget, who said : “Lately Keys, the summit commenced with their hard work. This summit brings Committee for Delivery & Legacy; in Chantilly she did not have any an honorary introductory address together local, regional and interna- Florian Alles, Chief Architect from action. It was too bad to be good. Top professionals from Ooredoo Qatar, serving as an tional experts on sports and stadia, gmp Architekten von Gerkan; Chris We kept her cool at 2 in order to do discus stadium advocate for smart stadium tech- encouraging discussions on innova- Dite, Associate Director, Sport Venue a good 3yo season.” nology for modern stadium and tive stadia design, construction and Design and Major Events from Arup, “This time, she had sheepskin, requirements to venue excellence in preparation operation of major sporting venues as well as others for live and inter- but it did not do the difference. I deliver successful for 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar and and the legacy that will benefit the active feedback. thought Camprock would come FIFA World Cups beyond. country’s communities in line with The breakout presentations con- to defeat her, but she resisted very Following the welcome remarks, the Qatar National Vision 2030.” cluded with athlete speeches, meet well. She shows she holds the dis- Jurgen Muller, Head of Planning and The morning keynotes con- and greets and autograph sessions tance. She had never went more Infrastructure and Head of 2022 cluded with a joint presentation with former Manchester United than 1,600m at 2.” FIFA World Cup Qatar from FIFA, from Prof Dr Ashraf Sobhi, Deputy and French National Team world- Harry Herbet, racing man- The Peninsula delivered the first keynote pres- Minister, and Dr. Tamer Abdel Azim, famous striker Louis Saha and Qatari ager for Al Shaqab, also added : entation, emphasising stadium Technical Expert from the Ministry star and Olympic high-jump athlete “This was an interesting scenario. requirements and specifications of Youth and Sports, Egypt. Mutaz Essa Barshim. The filly is very well trained so we which venues must adhere to in Through an ambitious slew of The day concluded with two decided to run her. She can some- DOHA: Over 300 of the globe’s order to qualify and deliver success- PPP (Public Private Partnership) Spanish stadium case studies times be a bit lazy so here the most reputable stadium operators, ful FIFA World Cups. projects, the Egyptian government from Bill Mannarell Director, Àrea rhythm helped a lot and she fin- architects and contractors along with Key themes included legacy, sus- is planning and delivering a diverse Patrimonial, Espai Barça, on FC ished off very well her race. Gregory federation directors, government tainability, financial feasibility and pipeline of national stadium projects, Barcelona’s landmark venue Camp Benoist also did a wonderful job.” officials, renowned athletes and FIFA guidelines for football-focused explored by Dr Sobhi’s and Dr Azim’s Nou, and Javier Pérez, Senior Mem- “The distance is spot on for her. tournament stakeholders took part stadiums. Engineer Othman Zarzour, research. ber Architect from IDOM, on the She looked terrific today with her in the opening day of the World Sta- Competition Deputy Venues Exec- The summit then proceeded international award-winning Bil- brighter skin. It has been a wonder- dium Congress at the Westin Hotel utive Director from the Supreme with multiple break-out sessions, bao Arena. ful weekend overall.” in Doha yesterday. Committee for Delivery and Legacy, including a Dragon’s Den con- As Day One came to a close, Khalifa Bin Mohammed Al Atti- The mega congress is organised presented on competition venues in cept that allowed the world’s most the gathering effectively and com- yah, Al Shaqab Racing General Jurgen Muller, Head of Planning and by IQPC Middle East in partnership Qatar and laying the foundation for relevant stadium solution provid- prehensively covered stadium Manager, explained that Jemayel’s with the Supreme Committee for an effective World Cup preparation ers, such as EMC, the chance to technologies, security protocols, Infrastructure and Head of 2022 FIFA win of the Pour Moi Coolmore Prix Delivery and Legacy. and execution. ‘pitch’ their systems to the likes of legacy programmes and more – World Cup Qatar from FIFA speaks during Saint-Alary (Gr1) at Deauville rep- Hosted by world famous sports He said: “I’d like to thank our Tamim El-Abed, Project Manager – looking at both regional and global the opening day of the World Stadium resented a big surprise for everyone broadcaster and journalist Richard partners and the organisers, for Lusail Stadium from the Supreme case studies and demands. Congress in Doha yesterday. as she was not a hot favourite. Romarinho double sends El Jaish flying Lexus shine at Fuji

The Peninsula Shanghai SIPG as they lost 2-1 Speedway in Japan to FC Tokyo. Mizunuma’s cheeky free DOHA: Midfielder Romarinho kick routine put the hosts ahead Agencies our racing initiatives over the years.” Ricardo struck twice as El Jaish just before half-time and he At the start of the race, the No. shrugged off their Emir Cup volleyed a stunning winner on 39 Denso Kobelco Sard Lexus RC F woes and took sweet revenge 65 minutes, after Wu Lei had car was well behind the initial race with a convincing win against briefly put SIPG level. SHIZUOKA PREFECTURE, Japan: leaders but was still competing hard Lekhwiya by 4-0 in their AFC The victory leaves FC Tokyo Driving a Denso Kobelco Sard Lexus to move up the grid. On Lap 72, a Champions League Round of 16 dreaming of their first Champi- RC F, Heikki Kovalainen and Kohei left-side tire burst threw pieces of a match, played at the Abdullah ons League quarter-final, while Hirate, finished second to get yet competitor race car across the track. Bin Khalifa Stadium yesterday. SIPG are up against it in next another podium finish for Lexus in To clear the track of the broken parts, Half time scores read 2-0 week’s return leg in Shanghai. the Super GT500 class in the second the Safety Car was brought in and, as in favour of victorious El Jaish. Elsewhere, a brilliant Leon- round of the 2016 Autobacs Super a result, the gaps between the lead Following their 2-1 defeat ardo free kick earned 2006 GT500 series at the Fuji Speedway machines narrowed rapidly. to Lekhwiya in the Emir Cup champions Jeonbuk Hyundai in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. The Safety Car left the track on semifinals, El Jaish looked con- Motors a 1-1 away draw against The No. 37 KeePer TOM’S Lexus lap 78 and the race resumed, and as fident from the first whistle itself Melbourne Victory. RC F driven by James Rossiter and soon as it did, several cars that were yesterday. Melbourne went ahead Ryo Hirakawa finished third to make seriously low on fuel immediately Romarinho gave them the through Besart Berisha’s header it two podium finishes for Lexus on made their routine stops, includ- perfect start in the 17th minute. in the fifth minute, only for the race day. The No. 36 au TOM’S ing the No. 39 Denso Kobelco Sard Romarinho hit the goal post Leonardo to equalise with his Lexus RC F and No. 6 WAKO’S 4CR Lexus RC F (Kohei Hirate) and the with his first strike but tucked free-kick eight minutes later. Lexus RC F, which claimed fourth and No. 37 KeePer TOM’S Lexus RC F (Ryo home the rebound to make it It was an emotional night for fifth position respectively, made it a Hirakawa). 1-0. veteran Victory striker Archie successful outing for Lexus with four Thereafter, the Lexus RC F No. 39 Abderrazzaq Hamdallah Thompson, who was given a positions in the Top 5. The race took car and Lexus RC F No. 37 car then doubled the deficit in the 44th standing ovation as he was sub- place recently. managed to maintain their fast lap minute with a perfect hit into stituted in his final home match According to Takayuki Yos- times and avoid any mishaps to fin- the net. after 261 appearances and 101 hitsugu, Chief Representative, ish the race. Mohamed Abdullah Meth- goals for the club. Middle East and North Africa Rep- Finishing the race in sec- nani continued the momentum resentative Office, Toyota Motor ond place was the No. 39 Denso with a perfect header, picking Corporation,“The Lexus RCF-pow- Kobelco Sard Lexus RC F which up from a corner-kick to make AFC ROUND OF 16 RESULTS: ered teams have yet again proven had continued to run at a strong it 3-0 for El jaish. their prowess with their superb per- pace throughout the race. For Then, with only four min- El Jaish (QAT) 4 : 0 formance on the track during the Kovalainen, this was his first podium utes remaining, Romarinho put Lekhwiya (QAT) 2016 Autobacs Super GT500 series. finish in his second year of SUPER icing on their cake with his sec- The demanding environments of GT competition. ond goal of the day, beating the Melbourne Victory (AUS) 1 : 1 competitive racing are a great testing Finishing third after a tough Lekhwiya goalkeeper and two Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors ground for evaluating our vehicles, charge from a ninth position grid of their defenders, just few feet (KOR) which in turn helps us enhance our start was the No. 37 KeePer TOM’S away from the goal. efforts to make ever better cars of the Lexus RC F. El Jaish’s midfielder Romarinho Ricardo (left) controls the ball as Lekhwiya Meanwhile, in Tokyo, a FC Tokyo (JPN) 2 : 1 race track as well for the benefit of Round 3 of the 2016 champion- defender Mohamed Musa defends during their AFC Champions League round of superb brace by Kota Mizunuma Shanghai Sipg (CHN) our customers. We also appreciate the ship takes place in Autopolis, Japan, rocked Sven-Goran Eriksson’s 16 football match at Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha yesterday. support of our fans who have backed on May 21 and 22.