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Monday 28 October 2013 23 Dhul-Hijja 1434 - Volume 18 Number 5866 Price: QR2

QNB makes Patte seals it to top the deal on global list Doha debut

Business | 17 Sport | 27

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 4455 7741 | Advertising: 4455 7837 / 4455 7780 Companies ‘can conduct’ check-ups Medical Commission allows Mowasalat to carry out mandatory tests on new staff

DOHA: The Medical to conduct the medical check up as HIV/Aids, Tuberculosis and on a single day,” said Al Shaar. mandatory medical check up of Commission , with a capacity of Commission has given initial on their own for their employees. Hepatitis B and C. He said delays and crowding at their newly recruited workers. 500 visitors, is expected to be open approval to some companies to We have no objection if they pro- The official said the Medical the Commission have been felt at “We will take responsibility if the in Mesaimeer next year. There is a conduct the mandatory medi- vide all the required facilities and Commission currently receives the workers’ section and the com- delays are caused by the Medical plan to set up Medical Commission cal check- up for their employ- if the tests are conducted under an average 3,000 visitors daily, panies themselves are responsible Commission,” said the official. branches at the three hospitals and ees in their premises provided our monitoring. We have given majority of whom are newly for this to a great extent. He said the Commission is primary health centers that are they strictly meet the require- them initial approval,” Al Shaar recruited foreign workers. The companies are required to working on a project to open 10 being built exclusively for expatri- ments, a senior official of the told this daily last evening. The Commission saw a total of register online for tests of their satellite centers across the coun- ate workers, said Al Shaar. Commission said yesterday. “However, we have signed an 647,000 visitors this year until the employees but some companies try over the next few years. He said the X-ray and labora- The Commission has already agreement only with one company end of September, a local Arabic are not doing that. Sometimes A new unit at the Industrial tory equipment at the Medical signed a contract with the state- until now — Mowasalat — which is daily reported yesterday quoting they fail to stick to the appoint- Area, targeting single workers Commission are being upgraded backed public transport com- currently working to set up a facil- Al Shaar. The number of visi- ments and this is also creating is ready for opening next month. to make the tests faster and more pany, Mowasalat, in this regard, ity at its premises,” he added. He tors has almost doubled after the confusion, said Al Shaar. The facility which can accommo- accurate. Advanced air purifying its Director Dr Ibrahim Al pointed out that it would not be Commission introduced evening There are instances when com- date 400 visitors will function in machines have been installed at Shaar said. “Some leading com- easy for companies to provide this shifts a few months ago. panies are fined by the authori- a separate building attached to various sections to prevent the panies and establishments had service since it involves elaborate “ There were days when we ties for delaying the residence the workers’ clinic in the locality. spread of diseases among visitors. approached us seeking permission tests for infectious diseases such handled as high as 3,500 visitors permit procedures, including the Another unit of the Medical THE PENINSULA

Largest ambulance in the world New ministry Emir to visit to handle job Kuwait today placements DOHA: The Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani DOHA: The Ministry of Labour will begin today an official visit and Social Affairs has been to Kuwait, as part of a Gulf tour absolved of its responsibility of which also includes Bahrain, taking care of job placements Oman, and the UAE. The Emir of nationals in the government will hold talks with the leaders of sector. sisterly states on boosting frater- The responsibility has instead nal ties, as well as a number of been entrusted with a newly- regional and international issues. created ministry, the Ministry of QNA Administrative Development. The Labour Ministry will, how- Expat tests positive ever, continue to look after the state’s job nationalisation drive in for MERS virus the private sector and push citizens into private employment. DOHA: A 23-year-old expatri- The onus of local human ate has been tested positive for resource development for govern- the deadly corona virus — Middle ment employment is with the new East Respiratory Syndrome Ministry now, said H E Hussain (MERS) — in the latest confirmed Al Mulla, Under-secretary at the case of the disease in the country. Labour Ministry. This is the first case in the coun- “We are now concerned entirely try involving a non-Qatari, which with the private sector,” he told takes the total number of people an Arabic daily. infected by the disease to seven. Al Mulla said the biggest chal- The Supreme Council of Health lenge his ministry faced was to (SCH), while announcing the new create an extensive database of the case yesterday said that a citizen, labour market and narrow the gap who was recently declared MERS between the education system and patient has recovered and left the the requirements of the Qatari job Nader Khamis Al Mehairi, head of airport section, steps out from the supersized ambulance and mobile hospital at Dubai World Central — Al Maktoum hospital. The SCH said that the market. THE PENINSULA International Airport, in Jebel Ali, Dubai, yesterday. A Mercedes-Benz bus which is used by Dubai government became the largest ambulance in the new case was discovered during world, with 18 metres of length. It can receive up to 44 patients at a time. epidemic investigation procedures and the patient showed no symp- toms of the disease. His condition is stable. The patient was checked and diagnosed of the illness at the Syrians spurn Geneva talks 16 Saudi women National Influenza Laboratory. US under pressure All those who came into con- BEIRUT: Nineteen Islamist groups fighting to topple President fined for defying tact with the patient were also Bashar Al Assad have rejected outright a mooted US-Russian peace checked and the initial results initiative for Syria dubbed Geneva 2, a statement said. ban on driving show that none has been infected, “We announce that the Geneva 2 conference is not, nor will it ever on Merkel spying said the SCH statement. be our people’s choice or our revolution’s demand,” the groups said in RIYADH: At least 16 Saudi THE PENINSULA a statement read in an online video. The statement also warned that women have received fines for WASHINGTON: The US a second report, in the German anyone who went to such talks would be committing “treason, and ... taking the wheel on a day set by National Security Agency (NSA) newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine would have to answer for it before our courts”. See also page 7 activists to defy the kingdom’s was forced yesterday to deny Sonntagszeitung. It said that when UK awaits worst traditional ban on female driving, that its director ever discussed Obama spoke to Merkel over the police and reports said yesterday. a surveillance operation against phone on Wednesday, he assured storm in 5 years Tallest man’s wedding Only few women braved offi- German Chancellor Angela the German leader he had not cial threats of punishment and Merkel with US President previously known her phone had LONDON: The worst storm drove on Saturday in response Barack Obama, as the White been monitored. in five years is expected to hit to an online campaign headlined House tried to contain a full- Caitlin Hayden, the White England and Wales today, bring- “Women’s driving is a choice”. scale diplomatic crisis over espio- House’s National Security Council ing heavy rain, high winds and “Police stopped six women driv- nage directed at allied countries. spokeswoman, declined to com- the threat of flooding and travel ing in Riyadh, and fined them The Obama administration ment on the reports, telling the chaos. Winds of more than 80mph SR300 ($80) each,” said the cap- appeared in disarray as it strug- Guardian: “We are not going to could leave a trail of destruc- ital’s police deputy spokesman, gled with the fallout over the dis- comment publicly on every spe- tion across large parts of the UK, Colonel Fawaz Al Miman. Each of closure that the NSA monitored cific alleged intelligence activity.” knocking down trees and causing the women, along with her male the phone conversations of at However just over three hours structural damage and power cuts. guardian, had to “sign a pledge to least 35 world leaders, and that later, that position appeared to As light faded, Sussex police respect the kingdom’s laws.” the phone of Merkel had been have been reversed, when the and the coastguard began a major In Jeddah, police also fined two monitored. NSA said in a statement that search for a 14-year-old boy who women for driving, according to The White House refused Alexander “did not discuss with had been swimming with a friend police spokesman Nawaf Al Bouq. to comment on an overnight President Obama in 2010 an off West Beach in Newhaven, Six women were stopped by report in the German tabloid alleged foreign intelligence opera- after being told that a call had police in Eastern Province, and Bild, which alleged that Obama tion involving German Chancellor been “swept away by the current”. at least two others were stopped was personally briefed about by Merkel, nor has he ever discussed The storm, named after St Jude in other parts of the kingdom. A the operation to target Merkel’s alleged operations involving will develop over the Atlantic and is Sultan Kosen (right), who holds the Guinness World Record for tallest dozen Saudi women posted vid- phone by the NSA’s director, Chancellor Merkel. News reports expected to hit the south-west today, living male at 2.51m, and his wife Syrian Merve Dibo arrive for their eos on the Twitter account of the Keith Alexander, and allowed it claiming otherwise are not true”. before moving north-east across wedding ceremony in Mardin city, southeastern Turkey, yesterday. campaign, @oct26driving, show- to continue. GUARDIAN NEWS England and southern Wales. ing themselves driving. AFP That appeared to conflict with See also page 10 See also page 10 MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 02 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME

FM receives Kuwaiti ambassador Qatar Airways Sidra to co-host to fly to Sharjah, new world paediatric Dubai airport surgeons meet DOHA: Qatar Airway will fly to Sharjah and Dubai World Central from March 1 next year. 1,000 surgeons to attend 2019 congress Beginning that date, the air- line will operate two flights daily DOHA: Sidra Medical and and will take over as president each to Sharjah International Research Center and the Pan in 2017, said, “Over 1,000 paedi- Airport (airport code: SHJ) Arab Association of Paediatric atric surgeons from all over the and Dubai World Central — Al Surgeons (PAAPS) have been world will contribute to learning Maktoum International Airport chosen to co-host the sixth opportunities for the attendees (airport code: DWC) from its World Congress of the World by taking part in training ses- hub in Doha. Federation of Associations of sions and panel discussions, “The ever-increasing demand Paediatric Surgeons (WOFAPS) expanding the regional knowl- for flights to the UAE has in 2019. edge bank through access to provided the business case The congress will take place international expertise, as well for expanding our services in late 2019 at the National as the latest techniques and to Sharjah and Dubai World Convention Centre. technologies.” Central,” said Qatar Airways This will be the first time The MENA region has a young Chief Executive Officer Akbar in its 40-year history that and expanding population and The Foreign Minister H E Dr Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah received yesterday copies of credentials Al Baker. WOFAPS will be hosted in consequently a growing need of Metaab Saleh Fahd Al Mutautah as Ambassador of Kuwait. He wished the ambassador success in the “The location of both airports the Middle East North Africa for paediatric surgical care and accomplishment of his mission. will offer travellers alternative (MENA) region. Doha was cho- expertise. options to reach their final des- sen in the competitive bid over Sidra and its partners are tination when flying to Dubai,” Kuala Lumpur, Istanbul and committed to support educa- he added. Sydney. tion for these physicians and The settlement of Sharjah “The selection of Doha as the will sponsor 100 surgeons from Run The World Festival to kick off dates back some 6,000 years when host city for WOFAPS 2019 con- low- and middle-income coun- it is believed to have been called tinues the organisation’s focus tries to attend WOFAPS 2019, Sarcoa. on improving the surgical care of who would not otherwise have The population was small and children in emerging and develop- the opportunity to attend to take on Saturday with talks on sports people relied on trade and sea ing countries. part in the event. faring in addition to, farming, “The region, and Qatar spe- Sidra staff and the medical DOHA: The Youth Company, As TYC’s largest youth event of what experts have to say about hunting, fishing and pearling. cifically, have invested heavily and research centre will also Qatar — a nonprofit social enter- the year, Run The World presents their own life-changing experi- Many of the early settlements in building world-class medi- play a major role in making prise for youth development and an opportunity for youth between ences, and the advice they share were based around the ‘falaj’, a cal institutions and develop- WOFAPS 2019 a key educa- empowerment — will begin the the ages of 14 to 29 years to partic- for becoming healthier, happier, man made underground water ing innovative infrastructure, tional event for the region by first of three instalments of this ipate in a range of sports and fun and more engaged citizens of the course. making a visit to Doha an holding a number of instruc- year’s Run The World Festival activities, showcase outstanding world,” says Abdulrahman Sajid, Today Sharjah is the third exceptional experience from col- tional courses in conjunction with “RTW Talks” comprising talents, explore worldwide cultures Director of Youth Hub and YESS. largest of the seven states which leagues from across the world,” with the congress through the five mini-conferences. and get involved in community The first RTW Talks in form the United Arab Emirates said WOFAPS President Dr use of its simulation centre and To take place between projects and conferences such as November will feature topics such and offers an impressive array of Richard Azizkhan. access to the latest available November 2 and 30, the talks RTW Talk and RTW Legacy. as depression; how it is defined over twenty museums, several art Co-chairs of the regional surgical technology. will feature a range of topics on “This time, RTWF 2013 is not and whether it is an illusion or galleries and beautifully restored organizing committee, Sidra’s The theme of the 2019 how youth can lead healthier and just about encouraging youth to reality, as well as sports, diet heritage areas in this bustling Clinical Chief of Surgery Dr conference will be “Arabian happier lifestyles. The delegates lead healthy and active lifestyles. and other sessions on lifestyle port city. David Sigalet and Hamad Medical “Pearls of Paediatric Surgery,” will be given the chance to touch It is about gaining new expe- and wellbeing. Speakers and Dubai World Central (DWC), Corporation’s Head of Paediatric and a number of high-profile base with some of the world’s riences, awareness and learn- delegates will be invited to take located in the Jebel Ali area of Surgery Dr Mansour Ali, were speakers from North America champions in health, wellbeing, ing new things not only about part in the forum and engage Dubai, southwest of the city, in Berlin at this year’s WOFAPS and Western Europe have sports, and innovation. The first ourselves, but also about other in speeches, panel discussions, is a strategic initiative of the conference when the win was already agreed to take part RTW Talk will be held at Youth individuals and the community debates, and interactive activities Government of Dubai for the announced. in the event, said a release Hub, Qatar on Saturday and around us. In RTW Talk, the that inform, motivate and connect establishment of the world’s Sigalet, who also serves as yesterday. will explore the topics of mental first part of this exciting edition, the participants. first aerotropolis. president elect of WOFAPS THE PENINSULA health and sports. we want young people to listen to THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA

MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 04 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME QP to inaugurate safety college on November 12 TEEX training provider for RLESC

DOHA: Qatar Petroleum (QP) advanced education and training in partnership with Qatar’s institutions in the region, serving Ministry of Interior (MoI) will not only companies and individu- open a state-of-the-art college als in Qatar but also those in the dedicated to emergency and greater Middle East, North Africa safety professions at Ras Laffan and Asia. The college is a testa- Industrial City on November 12. ment of our resolve to become The Ras Laffan Emergency & a hallmark of emergency safety Safety College (RLESC) will offer training, and its primary objective internationally recognised as well is to educate and train emergency as professional vocational qualifi- and safety professionals to inter- cations courses and programmes nationally recognized qualifica- A view of the main building of the college. in Fire Safety Engineering and tion and standards in a variety Fire Safety Management. of functional areas,” said Khalid The RLESC offers a large Incident Management, and other 300 students at a time, and it uses In addition, all RLESC courses A vision of the Emir, H H Ahmed Al Ansari, Manager of the selection of educational options related fields. English as the main medium of and degrees are accredited by the Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al RLESC. comprising of vocational train- Applicants can enrol in single instruction, with Arabic transla- National Board on Fire Service Thani, the RLESC is a premier These areas include the oil and ing courses and academic pro- training courses on a specific field tions also available for the courses Professional Qualifications safety academy that is spread over gas sector, petrochemical indus- grammes, as students can enrol in of study whose duration varies and examinations. (ProBoard) in the US. RLESC 100 hectares and equipped with tries, marine, civil aviation, civil Fire Safety Management or Fire from three days to 12 weeks, or The Texas Engineering also has the support of Texas modern classrooms, high-tech defence, industrial fire fighting, Safety Engineering diploma and in academic degrees, which can Extension Service (TEEX) is the A&M University at Qatar, which training props, and other support emergency medical services, haz- degree programmes. Plans for the extend from 2-4 years. The first training provider of the RLESC. is the current research partner of and administration facilities. ardous materials, search and res- future include degrees in Safety, academic degrees will be available TEEX is internationally acclaimed the college in the field of liquefied “The RLESC is designed to cue, health and safety, emergency Environment, Occupational starting September 2014. The col- in the area of advanced practical natural gas (LNG). be one of the largest and most response, and driver training. Health, Business Continuity, lege has a capacity to train up to emergency and safety training. THE PENINSULA 18 schools take QPOH conference from November 19 part in QFCHT DOHA: Under the patronage of awareness H E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Sada, Minister of Energy programme and Industry, the Second Qatar Petroleum Occupational Health DOHA: Qatar (QPOH) Conference, which will Foundation for be held from November 19 to Combating Human 21, will feature a distinguished Trafficking (QFCHT) is lineup of international experts completing the second in the field of occupational phase of its awareness health. programme for schools Among the high-profile speak- (all are humans), which ers is Dr L Casey Chosewood, was launched during the Senior Medical Officer for Total academic year 2012-2013. Worker Health of the National The programme seeks, Dr Rosemary Sokas Institute for Occupational Safety Professor Tar-Ching Aw in its second phase, to and Health (NIOSH) of the achieve a number of objec- Centers for Disease Control and Hogan will give presentations presentation will focus on how to tives including the aware- Prevention (CDC) of the US. Dr on “Focused and Cost Effective deal with disability issues in the ness of the target category Chosewood will be delivering a Health Surveillance” and on workplace. on the concept of human paper focusing on “Best Practices “Health Risk and Health Impact Dr Rosemary Sokas, Professor trafficking, its forms and for Creating Healthy Workplaces.” Assessment,” while Dr Fraser & Chair of the Department of methods, identify laws and Other key speakers at the will discuss proactive stress man- Human Science at the School agreements on combating conference will include Dr agement and the emerging health of Nursing and Health Studies human trafficking, under- Martin Hogan, Immediate issues in the oil and gas industry. of Georgetown University in stand the current reality of Past Dean of the Faculty of The conference will also feature Washington, DC; Dr Judith SC the State of Qatar on the Occupational Medicine of the the technical presentations of Shiao, Associate Professor at subject of human traffick- Royal Collage of Physicians Professor Tar-Ching Aw, Interim the Department of Nursing of ing, in addition to identify of Ireland (RCPI), and Dr Dean of the College of Medicine the National Taiwan University the roles and functions of Alastair Fraser, Vice-President & Health Sciences of the United Medical College; and Dennis P QFCHT, a press release of Health for Royal Dutch Shell Arab Emirates University, and Dr Driscoll, President and Principal issued by the QWFCHT in The Hague, Netherlands. Dr Ahmad Al Shatti, Consultant on Consultant of the Associate in said yesterday. Occupational and Acoustics, Colorado, USA, will Eighteen schools were Environmental also present papers. chosen of all levels to Medicine and The 2nd QPOH Conference 2013 implement the programme Director of the is being organized by QP in part- in its second phase, in Occupational nership with the Supreme Council addition to completing the Health of Health. The theme of the event work with schools that Directorate this year is “Innovations for a have been implementing of Kuwait’s Healthy Workplace.” The confer- the programme in the first Ministry of ence is supported by Qatar Shell phase. Health. Professor as the platinum sponsor, Oryx The programme includes Aw will speak on GTL Limited as the gold sponsor, in its second phase vari- the management as well as by Qatargas Operating ous events and activities; of work-related Company Limited and Qatar Fuel including an ideal lesson musculoskeletal Additives Company as the silver about anti-trafficking that disorders, while sponsors. continues throughout the Dr Al Shatti’s THE PENINSULA school year, cultural events, debates and volunteer campaign for students, and the programme concludes its activities with a closing ceremony to honour the programme participants. The programme targeted in the first phase 12 schools from different levels. THE PENINSULA Italian official meets Qatari ambassador

ROME: The Head of the Italian Foreign Minister’s Private Office Pietro Benassi met yesterday with Qatar’s Ambassador to Italy Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi on the occa- sion of the end of his tour of duty in the country. The Italian official expressed appreciation to the ambassador for the efforts he exerted during his tenure. He wished the ambas- sador success in his future duties and the relations between Qatar and Italy further progress and prosperity. QNA MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 05

Emir, Premier greet Doha dhow Turkmen president DOHA: The Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani sent a cable of greetings to the President of the Republic of Turkmenistan on the occa- to embark on sion of his country’s National Day. The Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa GCC voyage Al Thani also sent a cable greet- ing the President of the Republic of Turkmenistan on the same Trip to promote dhow festival occasion.

DOHA: Fath Al Khair, one of depart from the UAE to arrive on Minister to attend the biggest traditional dhows the shores of Qatar, in time for in Qatar, is set to embark on a the National Day on December 18. Yemen mass 27-day voyage across the GCC, In the age of modern transpor- as a highlight of the celebration tation, this is considered the first wedding this year’s Traditional Dhow trip of its kind in the region due FROM LEFT: Rida Mousa, Representative from Qatar Museum Authority, Hasan Al Kaabi, Dhow Captain, Dr Khaled Festival organised by Katara. to the unavailability of dhows that Al Sulaiti, General Manager of Katara, and Saleh Youssef Al Kuwari, Dhow crew member at the press conference DOHA: The Assistant Foreign The 45-metre-plus dhow was have the capacity for such jour- at Katara yesterday. Minister for International built exclusively for the Emir of neys and the lack of experienced Cooperation Sheikh Ahmed bin Qatar in 1983 by Amireya work- youth in this field. our generation on this unique field collections in the GCC region.” as well as Qatari youths who have Mohamed bin Jabor Al Thani shop to promote tourism trips for This journey aims at reviving of sea navigation, whereby young Hasan Al Kaabi, Dhow Captain, a desire to learn about this kind and his accompanying delega- the Ministry of Information and and preserving the cultural her- Qatari sailors can meet their said: “I am very proud to lead this of travel and adventure will have tion will leave for Yemen today Tourism. It is currently part of itage of Qatari ancestors’ travels GCC counterparts to exchange amazing journey and showcase the opportunity to take part in to attend the 4th Orphans’ Mass the cultural and heritage initia- and transportation across the expertise,” said Katara General Qatar’s heritage and history to this trip. Wedding 2013. tives of Qatar Museums Authority world using dhows, as well as Manager, Dr Khalid Ibrahim Al the millions living in this region. Under the patronage of the The ceremony will be held (QMA). teaching the young generations Sulaiti, at a press conference yes- The sea played a huge role in our Emir H H Sheikh Tamim Bin upon an Emiri Gesture of Fath Al Khair will set sail on about travel via dhows and pro- terday in Katara. past; it was the bridge of exchange Hamad Al Thani, Katara’s third the Father Emir H H Sheikh November 22 at Katara beach moting Qatari history. Rida Mousa, QMA between different cultures and Traditional Dhow Festival is one Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and make its first stop in Bahrain. “We are proud to announce the Representative said: “QMA is societies in Qatar and the rest of the largest festivals in the and under the patronage of the After Bahrain, Fath Al Khair will Fath Al Khair journey which will keen on reviving and preserving of the region, and we are here to region and the world specialised President of Yemen Abd Rabbu make its way to Saudi Arabia revive and bring back our strong Qatari heritage, especially the bring this back to life once again in maritime heritage. Mansour Hadi. This gesture is then sail to Kuwait. The journey cultural heritage. This voyage maritime legacy as the QMA’s with the support of our young To participate in the a continuation of the ongoing will then continue to the shores of will provide us with an excellent collection of sailboats is con- generation.” Fath Al Khair journey, call: Qatari support for sponsor- Oman, the United Arab Emirates opportunity to showcase Qatari sidered one of the most impor- GCC citizens who have exper- 44080000/50123288. ing orphans in various Yemeni (UAE). Finally Fath Al Khair will history to the world and educate tant Arab traditional dhow tise in the field of sea navigation THE PENINSULA provinces. Sharjah ruler meets Qatari envoy QTA showcases Qatar’s tourism attractions at ITB Asia SHARJAH: The Ruler of Sharjah Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi DOHA: Qatar Tourism Qatar’s tourism infrastructure and We believe Asia provides sub- The trade show attracted around Katara and Qatar Museums met yesterday with Qatari Authority (QTA) showcased the growth in tourism were among stantial opportunities for further 8,500 delegates, including more Authority (QMA). Six hotels also Ambassador in UAE and Qatar’s thriving tourism and those highlighted to key travel growth,” said Hamad Al Abdan, than 750 buyers. Attendees were joined in the exhibition namely Dean of the Diplomatic Corps hospitality sector at the recent industry stakeholders at the event. Director of Exhibitions at QTA. largely from the Asian region, but Sharq Village & Spa, Best Western Abdullah bin Mohammed Al ITB Asia, the largest travel show QTA showcased Qatar as a unique “With culture, heritage, sight- were drawn from more than 90 Hotel, La Cigale Hotel, Wyndham Othman, whose term of office in Asia. QTA led Qatar’s delega- and leading MICE destination, offer- seeing and leisure on the agendas countries. QTA focused on holding Grand Regency Doha, Souq has expired. The Ruler of tion at the annual business-to- ing state-of-the-art venues with a of travellers, Qatar is an ideal des- buyer meetings and interacting with Waqif Boutique Hotels Doha, and Sharjah wished the Qatari business travel trade show and harmonious blend of upscale leisure tination; while for business travel- counterparts in the Asian tourism Intercontinental Doha The City, Ambassador well in his convention, which took place and cultural attractions. lers, through its superior MICE industry during their stay to raise in addition to three tour operators future posting, praising his from Wednesday to Friday at “Asia is a significant tourism offerings, Qatar is a leading high- interest in Qatar as a destination including Arabian Adventures, role in enhancing bilateral Suntec Singapore International market for us; it represents Qatar’s end destination, situated centrally for business and leisure travel. Discover Qatar by Qatar Airways, relations between the two Convention Exhibition Centre. second largest source market for between Europe and Asia,” added The Qatari delegation also and Regency Travel and Tours. countries. The major developments in tourists behind the GCC region. Al Abdan. included the Ministry of Culture, THE PENINSULA QNA MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 06 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME

Environment 500 students to contest in Robot Olympiad Ministry to open Culmination of six-month GO ROBOT programme on Friday, Saturday at Exhibition Centre more veterinary

DOHA: More than 200 teams centres and 500 students are expected to take part at the 2013 Qatar DOHA: The Minister of National Robot Olympiad to be Environment H E Ahmed bin held on Friday and Saturday at Amer bin Mohamed Al Hemaidi the Doha Exhibition Centre. has confirmed that Qatar, The National Olympiad and under the guidance of the Emir associated schools programme H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad are supported by Maersk Oil Al Thani, is keen to provide the Qatar and the College of the best veterinary services to live- North Atlantic–Qatar (CNA- stock owners, in order to con- Q) under the patronage of the tribute to the provision of food Supreme Education Council security in the country. (SEC) and with the support of The Minister told report- Qatar Petroleum (QP). ers after inaugurating the Al A record number of students Jemailiyah Veterinary Centre from across Qatar have signed up yesterday that the Ministry is to compete in this year’s event, seeking to expand its veterinary which is part of the GO ROBOT services through the opening of schools programme that aims to more centres in order to provide foster interest and develop skills various veterinary services in in science, technology, engineer- Qatar out of the conviction that ing and mathematics. prevention is better than cure. The winner of the competi- He said that Al Jemailiyah tion will represent Qatar at the Veterinary Centre will cover a World Robot Finals in Jakarta, FROM LEFT: Abdulrahman Al Obaidly from Qatar Petroleum, Sheikh Faisal Al Thani of Maersk Oil Qatar, Ken MacLeod of College of North Atlantic Qatar, large segment of the owners in Indonesia, later this year. Jaber Al Shawi from Supreme Education Council and Theodore Chiasson from College of North Atlantic Qatar, during the launch of the Qatar National the area and its environs, pointing The Olympiad is the culmina- Robot Olympiad 2013 at Hilton Hotel Doha yesterday. (KAMMUTTY VP) out that the state has been inter- tion of six months of GO ROBOT ested in raising livestock and tak- activities. Since April more than science, technology and engineer- robot’s performance. Their crea- more teachers and more students Jaber Al Shawi, Assistant ing care of them for a long time. 300 teachers have attended inten- ing, some of these students will be tivity starts to drive the learn- throughout Qatar.” Director of Communications and Al Hemaidi also underlined sive robotics training sessions at future leaders in Qatar’s energy ing process, and they are more Abdulrahman Abdulla Al Media office, said: “Enabling the the importance of media aware- CNA-Q and hundreds of robotics industry.” engaged in their studies.” Obaidly, Public Relations and GO ROBOT programme in Qatar ness among livestock breeders kits have been donated to schools Dr Theodore Chiasson, Dean Dr Ken MacLeod, President of Communications Manager of QP, as well as encouraging students in terms of prevention from dis- across Qatar. In total, over 1,500 of Information Technology at CNA-Q, said: “CNA-Q is excited said: “Qatar Petroleum is proud to to engage in the fields of science, eases that infect animals as well students have been involved in the CNA-Q and the World Robot to be part of the GO ROBOT support the 2013 Qatar National engineering and technology bring as treatment, indicating that the programme since it began in 2012. Olympiad representative in Qatar, programme, offering courses Robot Olympiad, and this annual them new added-value skills at centre, thanks to its qualified per- Sheikh Faisal Al Thani, Deputy said: “When they start using the to teachers and hosting the event will undoubtedly contribute school. It is in the interest of all sonnel, drugs and other services, Managing Director of Maersk Oil robotics kits, students get crea- robotic competitions. Our part- in shaping future engineers who parties in the educational proc- is now ready to offer its services Qatar, said: “We are delighted by tive ideas of what they want their nership with Maersk has been will eventually make a big dif- ess, including student and teacher these areas. the response of teachers and stu- robot to do. At that point, they enhanced by the endorsement of ference in the continued devel- alike, to receive training in vari- Following the opening, the dents to this year’s GO ROBOT are hooked, and they are eager to the Supreme Education Council, opment of Qatar’s oil and gas ous activities relevant to this Minister, accompanied by Dr programme. Our hope is that by learn the science and engineering which has helped to grow this industry and of the country in programme.” Sheikh Faleh bin Nasser Al Thani, developing an early interest in concepts that can enhance their programme, allowing us to reach general”. THE PENINSULA Director of the Department of Agricultural Research and Development at the Ministry of Environment, a number of the Ministry officials and members of the Central Municipal Council, Aspetar introduces innovations in groin pain diagnosis toured the different departments and units of the centre and was briefed on the functions and serv- DOHA: Aspetar hosted the appear in football players. The and was created to help with the referral centre and regularly help tackle the injury. The cen- ices provided to the owners. third annual Sports Groin Pain correct diagnosis of groin pain assessment, diagnosis and treat- brings together world lead- tre also aims to establish a long- Farhood Al Hajri, Director of Centre Conference this week can be difficult, therefore this ment of athletes with groin pain. ing researchers to provide high term research programme that the Animal Wealth Department entitled ‘Getting into the Groin’. conference aims to help doctors Commenting on the list of quality treatment and innovative, will include studies on basic risk at the Ministry of Environment, The two-day event took place to better examine their patients attendees, Dr Weir said: “We clinically relevant research. In a factors, injury mechanisms and said the number of livestock heads on Wednesday and Thursday and interpret the findings.” have an incredible panel of guest bid to help reduce incidences, a interventions. in Qatar is about 678,000. and featured a range of inno- Twelve international speakers speakers taking part in the event groin injury prevention pro- Aspetar, based in Doha, Qatar, In a statement to reporters, vative discussions, workshops from countries such as Denmark, this year. We will be able to use gramme has been incorporated is a world-leading specialised Al Hajri explained that a plan is and presentations specifically Spain, Canada and the United their knowledge, combined with into the NSMP’s medical exami- orthopaedic and sports medicine underway to increase the num- designed to help doctors bet- Kingdom attended the event. the knowledge of our experts at nations and, to date, almost 300 hospital and the first of its kind bers of livestock in Qatar and ter examine, diagnose and treat Additionally, a number of Aspetar Aspetar, to improve the treat- Qatar Stars League (QSL) foot- in the Middle East. Since 2007 the the establishment of veterinary patients with groin injuries. doctors participated, including ment of athletes with groin ball players have been screened. hospital has provided top-level clinics in each complex of farms, Aspetar Director General Dr Dr Adam Weir, Sports Medicine injuries.” The Aspetar Sports Groin comprehensive medical treatment noting that the number of farm Khalifa Al Kuwari said: “Groin Physician at Aspetar. The Sports ‘Getting into the Groin’ is Pain Centre has implemented a to athletes. In 2009 Aspetar was complexes in the country is about injuries are common in athletes Groin Pain Centre is a highly-spe- hosted by the Aspetar Sports number of initiatives including officially accredited as a FIFA nine, each of which has between who play sports that require a lot cialised centre within the ortho- Groin Pain Centre. The depart- a multitude of clinical services Medical Centre of Excellence. 300 to 400 farms. of running and jumping, and often paedic and sports medicine hospital ment aims to become a world-class and two PhD projects in order to THE PENINSULA QNA Court orders Students from 19 schools to take part QR806,000 compensation for in Environmental Filmmaker contest

accident victim DOHA: Young filmmakers from 19 schools next generations in our beloved Qatar and we are in Qatar will be competing in the first Junior looking forward to creating a video to help the DOHA: A lower court has Environmental Filmmaker Awards contest, cause,” she said. ordered a motorist and sponsored by the ConocoPhillips Global Water John Sherwood, a teacher at Qatar Academy his insurers to pay a huge Sustainability Centre (GWSC). (QA), said his students were excited about the QR806,000 ($2,21,337) in Teams made up of three to four students, opportunity to participate in the competition. damages to a Nepali expa- grades 7 to 9, and one teacher, will produce a “An essential part of our school culture is caring triate who was left almost short film on water sustainability in Qatar, high- about each other and about the community we incapacitated after a freaky lighting the importance of water and raising live in. Students in QA are encouraged to use accident. The accident was awareness about water conservation. their creativity in community outreach and we caused due to the care- Dr Samer Adham, Managing Director of are planning to show the video in our school to lessness of the motorist, GWSC, said: “It is with great pleasure that we raise awareness about the importance of water the court concluded in its are launching this competition. We hope it will conservation in Qatar.” ruling. spark the student’s creativity and interest in ConocoPhillips President, Gary Sykes said: “We The motorist while driving the importance of water conservation and that are launching the competition this year involving on a main thoroughfare sud- through their creativity and imagination we can all the schools that have already visited GWSC, denly changed lane from the generate even more interest in water conserva- with the aim of taking it national in its second middle one to the left and hit tion across all of Qatar.” round. We look forward to receiving all students’ a vehicle in the rear. Afaf Mahmoud Jaber, a teacher at Al Wakra entries and further building on the success GWSC The impact was so strong Independent Girls Elementary School said she has been achieving in its water conservation and that the vehicle that was hit and her students have already learned a great awareness outreach efforts.” ran over the divider in the deal about the importance of water conservation The top three films will be screened at an middle of the road (between from visiting the GWSC. awards ceremony with each member of the win- the Customs roundabout and “During our visit to the GWSC, we learned the ning teams receiving a special gift and their Ras Abu Aboud flyover). many ways water is being wasted and started to respective schools a trophy. The winning videos It so happened that a man realise small things we can all do to save water. will also be featured at the 2014 Environment Fair. was on the divider at the We feel it is our duty to conserve water for the THE PENINSULA time apparently trying to cross the road. The car hit him with force and he was thrown to the other side of the road. To his bad luck, a car speed- ing from the other direction knocked him down, leaving him severely injured. He, a Nepali expatriate, suffered fractures all over. Medical report suggested he was incapacitated. Based on the medical report the court ordered the motorist who caused the accident and his car insurers to pay the huge compensation to the Nepali national. THE PENINSULA Contestants attend an introduction session. MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 MIDDLE EAST www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 07

Tunnel closure Republicans costs Gaza $230m monthly GAZA CITY: Egypt’s closure for repairing of tunnels used to smuggle goods into the Gaza strip has caused monthly losses of $230 million (¤170m) to its economy, a Hamas official said yesterday. Saudi ties The “closure of the tunnels caused heavy losses to the indus- try, commerce, agriculture, trans- US losing credibility: Lawmakers port and construction sectors” of around $230m monthly, said WASHINGTON: Republican Separately, Republican Hatem Oweida, deputy economy lawmakers urged President Senators John McCain and minister for the Islamist move- Barack Obama yesterday to Lindsey Graham lashed out at ment Hamas that governs the repair US ties with Saudi Arabia, Obama’s “abdication of a leader- strip. after the critical Gulf ally pro- ship role” in the Middle East, say- Essential materials were for tested against Washington’s pol- ing he was “failing” US interests years smuggled from Egypt into icy on Syria and Iran. in the troubled region. Gaza through tunnels, bypassing House Intelligence Committee “The United States is experi- Israel’s blockade, but the Egyptian Chairman Mike Rogers said the encing a serious failure of pol- army recently destroyed many rift with Riyadh has been devel- icy and loss of credibility in the of those after ousting president oping over the past two years, Middle East,” they wrote in an Iranian President Hassan Rowhani greets UN-Arab League Special Envoy to Syria Lakhdar Brahimi in the Mohamed Mursi of the Muslim pointing to a 2011 US decision op-ed in The Washington Post. Presidential Palace in Tehran, yesterday. Brahimi discussed the ongoing crisis in Syria with Iranian officials. Brotherhood, a Hamas ally. to keep the Syrian conflict at “Events in the region are Oweida said that the coastal bay and the “quick rush to the headed in a perilous direction, and Palestinian territory had relied sweet talk” from Iran on its sus- there is little reason to feel confi- on the tunnels to meet at least 40 pect nuclear program in recent dent that the Obama administra- Syria rebel groups brand percent of its construction sup- months. “Those are critical issues tion has a strategy to secure US plies and raw material needs. to the Saudis, to the Qataris, to interests and values in this vitally Gaza’s unemployment rate the Jordanians and to others in important part of the world.” would hit 43 percent if official the Arab League that I think rat- Turning to Syria’s bloody civil Geneva talks ‘treason’ border crossings remained shut tled their faith in the administra- war, estimated to have killed more and the tunnels were destroyed, tion’s ability to protect them in than 115,000 people since March Oweida warned. He added that a very dangerous world,” Rogers 2011, the two lawmakers said they DAMASCUS: Powerful armed demand.” “We consider it just “public revenues saw a decline told CNN’s “State of the Union.” had seen “no indication” that groups in Syria said attending Lebanon violence another part of the conspiracy after the closure of the tun- The Wall Street Journal reported Obama had honored his commit- peace talks or negotiating with to throw our revolution off track nels and the tightening of the this week that Saudi intelligence ment to reduce President Bashar the regime would be an act of toll rises to 13 and to abort it,” said the statement siege in the second half of 2013,” chief Prince Bandar Bin Sultan Al Assad’s military capabilities, “treason,” as fighting raged yes- read out by Suqur Al Sham brigade which he said would hit Hamas’ Al Saud told European diplo- aid the opposition and help nego- terday near Iraq and in Homs. TRIPOLI: The death toll chief Ahmad Eissa Al Sheikh in a employment and temporary work mats he would scale back Saudi tiate an end to the regime. An international watchdog from a week of clashes in video posted online. They went on programmes. Arabia’s cooperation with the CIA “Consequently, any hope of meanwhile said Syrian President Lebanon between support- to say that anyone who attends to train Syrian rebels, and work ending this conflict through Bashar Al Assad’s regime handed ers and opponents of Syria’s such talks would be committing with other allies, including Jordan a negotiation in Geneva next over on time a detailed plan on regime has risen to 13, a secu- “treason” and “would have to Israel names new and France. month has little to no chance destroying its chemical weapons rity official said yesterday. answer for it before our courts.” Riyadh has also rejected a of success,” added Graham and stockpile. Two people died in clashes The statement comes as the envoy to Egypt prized seat as a non-permanent McCain, who lost the 2008 presi- The move was in line with a on Saturday and another two UN-Arab League peace envoy to member of the United Nations dential election to Obama. Worried US-Russian deal reached last were killed early yesterday Syria, Lakhdar Brahimi, prepares JERUSALEM: The Israeli for- Security Council, in protest at the that Washington’s ties with Riyadh month that headed off threat- in the northern port city of to travel to Damascus today as eign ministry has named Middle world body’s failure to do more to were “deteriorating rapidly” the ened military strikes on Syria Tripoli, the official said, add- part of a regional tour, a Syrian East specialist Haim Koren as end the Syrian war. two Republican colleagues also and added momentum to an ini- ing that scores more were government source said. the country’s next ambassador Bandar was cited as saying that urged the Obama administration to tiative for peace talks to be staged wounded, including 16 in the Yesterday, President Hassan to Egypt, a spokesman said. the decision was a “message for be cautious in its dealings with Iran. in Geneva next month. past two days alone. AFP Rouhani of Iran, a key ally of Koren, currently non-resident the US, not the UN.” “We should be prepared to sus- But the initiative’s backers have Damascus, told Brahimi the solu- ambassador to South Sudan, is “So what you see is that friction pend the implementation of new struggled to win the support of tion to the crisis was to expel “ter- an Arabic-speaker and accord- starting to take hold and we have sanctions, but only if Iran sus- the warring parties in Syria, groups fighting to topple Assad rorist groups” from the country, ing to media has previously to repair this and repair it soon,” pends its enrichment activities. where more than 115,000 people issued a statement saying the so- the term applied by the Syrian served as director of the minis- Rogers said. “They’re going to find We should not accept that the are estimated to have been killed called Geneva 2 conference “is regime to all the rebel groups try’s political planning division other friends. I argue that’s not centrifuges spin while the diplo- in the 31-month conflict. not, nor will it ever be our peo- struggling to overthrow it. and on the Cairo embassy staff. good for the United States.” mats talk,” they said. AFP In the latest blow, 19 Islamist ple’s choice or our revolution’s AFP AGENCIES As Iraq seeks US arms, bombs kill 55

BAGHDAD: A dozen bomb- occupation, have been unable of Nahrawan, south of the capi- invasion; the monitoring group ings in Iraq killed 55 peo- to prevent a surge in violence tal, killing seven. In Baladiyat, Iraq Body Count recorded over ple yesterday as the prime which has taken the civilian where another car bomb killed 29,000 civilian deaths in 2006 minister prepares to travel death toll so far this year to three people, a woman living and 25,000 in 2007. to Washington to seek about 7,000. Sealing the Syrian nearby spoke of a terrifying Having steadied to a monthly President Barack Obama’s border would only address part start to the working week: “I average of 300 to 400 deaths help in confronting a wave of of the problem. was eating my breakfast when a from 2009 to 2012, tolls have sectarian violence fuelled by Yesterday, police reported 11 powerful blast shook the build- close to doubled since violence Syria’s civil war. vehicles blowing up in mainly ing, shattering the window of in April, when government Killings, mostly blamed by Shi’ite Muslim areas in and my apartment and covering forces stormed a camp where the Shia-led government on around Baghdad, killing 41 peo- the dining table with glass,” said Sunnis were protesting at Sunni Islamists from Al Qaeda, ple in an apparently coordinated Suad Ahmed. what they see as their political are running at daily rates not series of explosions typical of al “I was terrified. I heard marginalisation. seen in five years and Nouri Al Qaeda. A further 14 people were women and children shouting “The deterioration of security Maliki will ask Obama on Friday killed when a suicide bomber next door. I started to cry. I was in Iraq is one of the shockwaves to speed up promised deliveries drove up to a line of soldiers afraid of death.” of the Syrian crisis,” said Shakir of drones and F-16 jets that he waiting to collect their pay from Violence between the Sunni Salman, a former general who believes can help staunch the a bank in the northern city of minority, long dominant in advises Iraq’s defence ministry. long desert border with Syria. Mosul and detonated his car. Iraq under Saddam Hussein “Al Qaeda is working now to Iraq’s own security forces, In the worst of the attacks and before, and majority Shias undermine Maliki’s government trained and equipped by the in the Baghdad area, two car empowered through elec- because they think this is one US troops who withdrew in bombs exploded moments apart tions promoted by Washington way to accelerate the fall of the late 2011 after a nine-year near a busy market in the town peaked four years after the US Syrian regime.” REUTERS

Iranian House approves two ministers, rejects third TEHRAN: Iran’s par- liament, dominated by conservatives, yester- day approved two new members of moder- ate President Hassan Rowhani’s government but rejected a third, media reported. Ali Asghar Fani was approved for education and Reza Faraji Dana for the science, research and technology portfolio, but legislators rejected Reza Salehi Amiri, who had been nominated to become min- ister of sports and youth. Several deputies criti- cised Salehi Amiri over his involvement in the protests that followed the re-elec- tion of hardline president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in 2009, while others accused him of corruption. AFP MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 08 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

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Georgia, start afresh Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate

EVOLUTIONS devour their children. This oft-repeated adage pertinently describes the denouement of Mikheil Saakashvili. The Georgian leader’s United National RMovement yesterday lost the elections, handing over the South Caucasus country’s presidency to Georgy Margvelashvili. N Korea’s nuclear strength The nation of 4.5 million people is strategically located to the south of Russia, between Azerbaijan and the Black Sea. It has borders with Turkey and Armenia and lies in the neighbourhood of Iran. The former Soviet Republic’s location vests it with grows in isolation a unique geopolitical advantage so as to keep the Kremlin perennially interested in the political goings-on there. Saakashvili f the international community’s consensus on how best to stop it getting conducting two nuclear tests, reveal- led the Rose Revolution in 2003 to take over as the Georgian main goal is to push North Korea there. The key question for the interna- ing a uranium enrichment facility and president. The Western-educated leader brought about significant towards denuclearisation, does the tional community is the same as it has putting a satellite in orbit with a launch changes in the country that was being fought over as one of the Ifact that Pyongyang is racing in always been — whether to engage with widely seen as a ballistic missile test. last pillars of the Cold War. In bringing about reforms, Saakashvili precisely the opposite direction suggest Pyongyang or not. International sanctions have been knelt heavily to the West, riling Moscow that was already a fundamental policy failure? Both North Korea and its main ally expanded but, despite increased coop- The question has taken on added China want a return to six-party talks eration from China, they still lack the wounded by the break up of the Soviet Union and could not see urgency following a succession of grouping China, the two Koreas, Japan, intensity to present Pyongyang with a Washington spreading its feet in its backyard. Ties with Russia monthly warnings sounded by satel- Russia and the United States. choice between nuclear weapons and deteriorated to the extent that the two countries fought a five-day lite imagery analysis that the North’s Washington and Seoul are adamant economic survival. war over the breakaway Georgian provinces of South Ossetia and nuclear weapons programme is gather- that Pyongyang must first demonstrate Barring a sudden implosion of the Abkhazia. Russia had backed the secessionist movements in the ing pace. a commitment to denuclearisation, but regime, Revere believes talks are the two provinces and kept a firm grip on the tiny enclaves after the In August, images suggested the the North has repeatedly stated it has only real option — and at the very high- North had doubled its uranium enrich- no intention of abandoning its weapons est level. war that killed hundreds and rendered thousands homeless. ment capacity at its Yongbyon nuclear programme. “If the goal is to convince North Incoming President Margvelashvili cannot claim to continue complex. The result is almost total impasse at a Korea to implement its denuclearisa- the unfinished agenda of Saakashvili who completed two terms. In September, they indicated it had time when the North is making possibly tion commitments, nothing short of a The powers of the president will re-started the plutonium reactor that its greatest strides towards achieving a dialogue with the North’s leader or his Outgoing be curtailed in the new political provided the fissile material for at credible nuclear deterrent. inner circle is likely to achieve this,” he least two of its “There is no diplomatic mechanism said. dispensation that will see the Prime Georgian three nuclear in place today that offers any prospect Nearly two years after taking over, president Mikheil Minister command more authority. tests, and just last for slowing or stopping the North’s Kim Jong-Un remains something of a Margvelashvili, a deputy PM in the week they pointed WMD programmes,” former senior US mystery, although most experts agree Sakashvili’s current government, is a close ally of Supporters of to preparatory State Department official Evans Revere he has successfully negotiated the tricky imminent Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili work for another said in a paper published this month power transition. who has promised to step aside after the principle of detonation at its by the Washington-based think-tank Initial hopes that he had a reformist targeting by no substantive nuclear test site. Brookings Institution. bent have since withered, but long-time the vote. “Pyongyang “The road to further development of North Korea watcher Andrei Lankov the incoming Political uncertainty has hit dialogue without is moving ahead these programmes by North Korea is believes the young leader will have to dispensation Georgia hard and scuppered efforts prior progress on on all nuclear now wide open, and Pyongyang is taking take risks spurned by his father, Kim aimed at development and fighting denuclearisation fronts,” believes it,” Revere said. Jong-Il, if he wants to stay in power. will only lead to poverty. During his two terms as US nuclear sci- Supporters of the principle of no Kim Jong-Il was nearly 60 by the time president, Saakashvili came down argue that to do entist Siegfried substantive dialogue without prior he had consolidated his leadership after political chaos in Hecker, a lead- progress on denuclearisation argue that the death of his father Kim Il-Sung. heavily on graft by carving out a zero- otherwise would the country. ing expert on the to do otherwise would be tantamount to The North’s economy was already in tolerance policy against corruption. be tantamount North’s weapons accepting Pyongyang’s recent progress dire straits, but reform carried risks for He brought about significant changes programme. towards nuclear statehood. stability and Lankov argues that Kim in the administration, making it easier for Georgians to go to accepting Since com- “Returning to talks now... would gambled on the system outlasting him through government procedures like issuing licences and permits. Pyongyang’s ing to power in allow North Korea to have reset the even if he did nothing. late 2011 follow- table for negotiations in a way that “Dying a natural death was Kim His inability to fight poverty in the former Soviet Republic proved recent progress ing the death undercuts the goals of North Korean Jong-Il’s major strategic goal, and he to be his nemesis. There has been a political witch hunt after towards nuclear of his father, nuclear disarmament,” said Paul achieved it,” said Lankov, a professor at Saakashvili’s party lost the parliamentary elections in 2012. statehood. North Korea’s Haenle, a former US representative at Kookmin University in Seoul. Ivanishvili has recently said that Saakashvili will not have it young leader the six-party dialogue. By contrast, the 30-year-old Kim easy after his exit as the president. This implies that the richest Kim Jong-Un has At the same time, Haenle, now the Jong-Un — his exact age is disputed — man in Georgia will want to get even with his bete noire after overseen a successful long-range rocket director of the Carnegie-Tsinghua will have to gamble on some economic launch and the North’s third — and larg- Center for Global Policy in Beijing, reforms if he wants to remain where he the latter leaves the presidential palace. This will only add to est — nuclear test. “Denuclearisation noted that dialogue with Pyongyang is into old age. the political chaos and may place a demand on the attention of must remain the goal, but it is a more in the past at least had the merit of But reforming such a tightly-control- the government from important issues of governance. Ivanishvili distant one following these new develop- slowing the North’s weaponisation pro- led economy risks destabilising the Kim and Margvelashvili have an important job to do in steering the ments,” Hecker wrote in the Bulletin of gramme down. dynasty’s hold on power and could usher poverty-stricken country to a better future. For better governance the Atomic Scientists. Since the last six-party talks in in a period of national vulnerability that and satisfied citizens, the political duo should look to the future If there is clear agreement on where December 2008 the brakes have the regime believes is best negotiated the North is heading, there is little clearly been taken off, with the North with a nuclear deterrent. AFP than spend their energy on retribution • The other side Quote of Coalgate’s bitter taste the day T IS a known fact – and a national Kumar had to step down over allegations telephone bandwidth that allege the deafening silence with no investigations shame – that in India, the mills of that he had influenced the wrongful coal involvement of companies owned by ever started into them. justice grind exceedingly slow. On allocations, why should there be another other renowned industrialists like Ratan The UPA government has also been Itop of that, when the people accused rule for Singh, the man who was in the Tata and Anil Ambani. The government systematically influencing the work of the of wrong-doing also happen to be ministry the time the deals were made? was exposed by the Wikileaks cables judiciary. Earlier this year a Delhi court the people heading the investigation Singh’s government has seen a sys- as having bribed members of parliament acquitted Singh’s party man Sajjan Today we show mechanism as the head of government, tematic nexus between businessmen to win their votes for a nuclear agree- Kumar, who was charged with having one can never expect any justice at and politicians, enabling both to flourish ment, and senior ministers and bureau- incited a mob attack in 1984 after the that we are true all. If company laws demand that an while the economy and the people lan- crats have been named in innumerable assassination of Indira Gandhi. Such official accused of wrong-doing has guished. The Coalgate scandal has now other corrupt dealings. One of the most flagrant disregard for human rights Europeans. People to step down till the investigations are seen a cloud descend on the heads of remarkable cases has been the quick strips Singh’s Congress party of the can truly exercise completed and s/he gets a clean chit, other suspects, like well-known indus- rise to riches by businessman Robert moral high ground it has been taking why should it be any different for the trialist Kumar Mangalam Birla. However, Vadra, the son-in-law of UPA chief against its arch rival, Narendra Modi of their right to make prime minister, especially one whose it is not the only scandal nipping at the Sonia Gandhi. There are accusations the Bharatiya Janata Party whose tenure government has been named in one United Progressive Alliance (UPA) gov- that senior government officials were as chief minister of Gujarat in western a free choice. scam after another during its second ernment’s heels. There have been the transferred for questioning Vadra’s land India saw a communal carnage. Bidzina Ivanishvili term in power? If law minister Ashwini scandals over the allocation of mobile acquisitions but Singh has maintained a Khaleej Times Georgian Prime Minister MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 09 Palestinian downturn bites mostly faulted Israeli curbs on Palestinian Jewish settlements. Mustafa imagines With Israel movement and access to resources. an “exit strategy” from aid through the Contraction of 0.1 percent came as for- $4bn investment and development plan, controlling more eign donor aid to the West Bank’s puny or “Economic Initiative for Palestine”, economy fell by more than half in 2012. introduced by US Secretary of State Israel’s restrictions affect much of John Kerry this year and drafted by than 60 percent Palestinian economic life. It controls the Mideast Quartet of the US, Russia, every access point, which enables it to European Union and United Nations. The of West Bank oversee all imports and exports, creating quartet’s interim report, which runs into bureaucratic hurdles that Palestinians hundreds of pages, provides details for say stifle or kill entrepreneurship. investment and reform prospects in eight territory, including The Israelis also impose strict limits sectors from tourism to agriculture. on water supply, which affects industry The research probed into the minutest the most fertile and agriculture. Israel has not allowed information, for example whether cer- Palestinians access to 3G mobile technol- tain tracts of land should be devoted to ogy, citing security concerns, rendering vegetables or fruit, and with sprinkler or land, the Western- many smartphone apps largely useless. drip irrigation. The impact from the slowdown is “The initiative deals in facts, not backed Palestinian clear even in well-heeled Ramallah, the dreams, and it takes into mind the status Palestinian Authority’s administrative quo ... it’s about making the economy sus- capital, which feels a world away from tainable, not pouring money into a safe,” Authority has grown poorer, outlying areas. an adviser in the office of the Quartet “When I opened my restaurant eight representative in Jerusalem told Reuters. dependent on years ago, I had five or six workers. Today While growth in recent years owed I have three and if the situation gets any much to the easing of Israeli rules on foreign aid. worse, that number might become two,” movement, the quantum leap envisioned said Ahmed Kdour, owner of the Chicago by the quartet plan is likely an all-or- restaurant. nothing chance that depends on a suc- BY ALI SAWAFTA and NOAH “Many people have put their shops cessful conclusion to peace talks next BROWNING up for sale saying they are travelling or spring — “high-stakes, but also high don’t have time for the business, but it gains,” said the quartet adviser. he arteries of Gaza’s economy is because of the economic situation,” he In a rolling West Bank landscape have collapsed as Egypt demol- added. encrusted with olive trees, millionaire ishes the smuggling tunnels The West Bank’s woes were partially Palestinian businessman Bashar Al Masri Talong its sandy border. offset in the first half of the year by resil- is making a rare investment and growth Ancient stone villages in the occupied ience in Gaza, thanks especially in the success story come to life. West Bank have become trapped in rural construction sector fed with cement from Whole neighbourhoods of affordable poverty, while investors and donors shy the tunnels. housing for some 25,000 people, mosques, away from a zone of seemingly endless But since Egypt’s military in July schools and parks are taking shape as conflict. ousted the country’s Islamist president, a part of the first-ever planned Palestinian The crackdown on the Gaza Strip and friend to the Hamas group that runs the city, a $300-million project. But the stagnation in the West Bank mean the coastal strip, it has demolished around dream is not yet reality. Palestinian economy might shrink this 90 percent of the tunnels from which the Israel has not given final approval for year after average annual growth of about Gaza government used to derive between the road to the new town, dubbed Rawabi nine percent in 2008-2011. 40 to 70 percent of its revenue. or “The Hills”. Al Masri also complains The doldrums have dented a long-held Unemployment in Gaza and the West that access to water is not yet secure, belief amongst Israeli right-wingers that Bank was some 22 percent in June 2013, saying that the supply allotted by Israel gathering Palestinian prosperity could with exports making up just 7 percent to the nearby Jewish settlement of Ateret achieve a de facto “economic peace” and of the total economy, according to World alone would be more than enough for provide a convenient alternative to a Bank statistics. both towns. A protester waves a Palestine flag as an Israeli Army bulldozer advances during clashes comprehensive two-state deal. Israeli foreign ministry spokesman “We’ve faced many problems from the “Any talk of further developing the Yigal Palmor told Reuters a lull in over the Jewish settlement of Qadomem, near Nablus in West Bank. (Israeli) occupation, and we still do. This Palestinian economy without a lifting of Palestinian GDP was natural after a is the nature of a military occupation, Israel’s restrictions is just that, talk,” said period of sharp growth, and defended it’s what we expected,” Al Masri told the Palestinian minister for economic continued Israeli curbs that bodies such $932m in 2012, according to PA data, Reuters in an interview. Reuters. While Ramallah’s economic affairs, Jawad Naji. as the World Bank say are smothering just under a third of all revenues and Speaking in his sleek office, a wood and policy elites speak optimistically of a “The international community urgently prospects for expansion. down from some $1.8bn in 2008. Deputy and glass villa in the concrete jumble of breakthrough, high prices and shrinking needs to intervene to pressure Israel to “They are part and parcel of the exist- Prime Minister for economic affairs and Ramallah’s once robust but now crum- livelihoods weigh on many working-class allow us access to our natural resources.” ing situation, where there remains a per- head of the Palestine Investment Fund, bling building boom, Western-educated Palestinians, for whom this month’s Eid Israel fears an economic downturn manent terror threat,” he said, adding Mohammed Mustafa, said that foreign Mustafa sees the peace talks as a make- al-Adha holiday was lean. could provoke violence in the West Bank, that direct peace talks, which resumed donors were growing wary of subsidizing or-break moment for the economy. “This is the first Eid where there with impoverished Palestinians feeling in July after a three year hiatus, were their economy without seeing “a political Behind him sit posters of a rosy, was not much activity,” said Ramallah they might have little to lose by staging meant to establish a definitive solution. horizon” to end the conflict. purported future: computer-generated resident Rami Bishara, ambling around another uprising against the occupation. With Israel controlling more than 60 “They’re getting a bit frustrated with graphics of a leafy Palestinian megacity. the mostly empty jewellery and clothing The economy in the Israeli occupied percent of West Bank territory, includ- the political process ... they’re saying, Propped next to them, stand maps stores in the city centre market. West Bank shrank for the first time in a ing the most fertile land, the Western- look, we’re not providing support for con- showing the bleak reality, crosshatched “I remember two years ago, there was decade in the first half of 2013, according backed Palestinian Authority has grown tinuing occupation, but rather to support with no-go zones for Palestinians and a stream of people,” he added wistfully. to a World Bank report this month which dependent on foreign aid. This totalled establishing a Palestinian state,” he told purple blotches marking widespread REUTERS Generations imprisoned in Russia For Syrians, pain

After that, we were forced to They fired warning shots, roped principles are based on a tradition Under both emigrate from Russia, and Dima down from helicopters and forced of nonviolent protest. Its mem- grew up in the United States. He the people on board to lie on the bers never use violence, although is second nature graduated with bachelor’s and cold deck. violence is often used against Russian and master’s degrees in anthropology All were taken to a Murmansk them. BY SAMER ATTAR from Wesleyan University. In the city jail and accused of sea piracy, Amnesty International, Human international 1980s, he joined the environmen- a charge that could have landed Rights Watch and 11 Nobel urgery without anesthesia is a miserable and brutal reality in tal organisation Greenpeace. them in a labour camp for up to Peace Prize laureates and mil- Syria. Doctors report that demolished hospitals and humanitar- Being fluent in his native 15 years. lions of people around the world Sian blockades have left some Syrians to suffer, awake, through law, an oil Russian, he was invited to Legal specialists from all over have called for the release of the amputations and Caesarean sections. be an interpreter in the first the world quickly rejected the Arctic 30. Dima and the others I saw similar horrors while working in a northern Syrian field hospi- platform, which Greenpeace action aimed at the charge of piracy. Under both are threatened with long prison tal under airstrikes in August. I operated on children who had the bone arctic island of Novaya Zemlya, Russian and international law, terms because they love and fragments of obliterated bystanders embedded in their skin. Children where the Soviet government bur- an oil platform, which is station- defend nature. That includes the shot by snipers were pronounced dead in front of grieving parents. is stationary, ied nuclear waste from years of ary, cannot be pirated. In other Russian Arctic, which is threat- Civilians with bellies torn open from shelling held their intestines in weapons testing. Soviet authori- words, an island in no way can be ened by senseless and dangerous their hands while pleading for help. Some lucky enough to have sur- cannot be ties took the Greenpeace activists, construed as a ship. drilling. vived shrapnel wounds succumbed to gangrene and required amputa- including Dima, to Murmansk, Piracy also requires premedi- I know only too well what a tions. The day before I left, a little boy whose crushed legs had been under arrest. tated action by the attackers to prison term in Russia means. amputated asked me to bring him prosthetic limbs if I ever returned. pirated. After several days, they were take another’s property for their I was arrested for participat- Only so much is possible in a besieged hospital where cellphones released and returned to their own interests. It further must ing in 1968 in a demonstration illuminate underground operating rooms when the power goes out. BY PAVEL LITVINOV ship on a personal pardon, involve violence or the threat of against the Soviet invasion of In Syria, the front lines are everywhere and many who are armed do delivered in a telegram, from violence. Czechoslovakia. Lev Kopelev, not respect medical neutrality. Like many makeshift hospitals, the one isaster has struck my then-Soviet President Mikhail On Wednesday, follow- Dima’s grandfather on his moth- I worked at does not display Red Crescent emblems to help prevent home. A month ago my Gorbachev. It was a time of great ing a legal challenge from the er’s side, a Soviet writer, spent its discovery and destruction. It has survived so far on luck, courage Dson, Dima Litvinov, who hope for change in the relations Netherlands, Russia changed eight years in Soviet prison camps and generosity. is 51, was jailed in the city of between Russia and the West and the charge to hooliganism, because he protested the looting As international attention to Syria wanes, all of these horrors are still Murmansk, Russia, north of the improvement of cooperation in which can bring a maximum and raping of the German popu- happening. The World Health Organization reported in April that 57 Arctic Circle. the defence of the environment. seven-year prison sentence. lation by Soviet officers and sol- percent of Syrian public hospitals had been damaged or destroyed. Local Dima has the sad distinction Dima, who now lives in The charge requires the per- diers during World War II, when production of medicines has decreased 90 percent, and only 36 doctors of possibly becoming the third Stockholm with his wife, Anitta, son either to have used an he fought the Nazi army. remained in Aleppo, down from about 5,000 before the conflict started. generation of political prisoners and three children, has continued object as a weapon or to have a Dima’s grandfather was In a September paper, “Assault on medical care in Syria,” the United in our family. to work for Greenpeace for more hate-related motivation — the arrested under Joseph Stalin, Nations documented how hospitals have been systematically destroyed, The photos of him handcuffed than two decades. Greenpeace group had neither and I, Dima’s father, was ambulances targeted, patients tortured and medics executed. Red and then in a steel cage were seen On September 18, the Arctic — and to have resisted authori- arrested under Leonid Brezhnev. Crescent volunteers have been attacked while relief supplies are dis- worldwide. He is a part of Arctic Sunrise was in international ties. Greenpeace abides by the The Soviet Union doesn’t exist tributed, and at least 20 have been killed while helping others. 30, a group of Greenpeace activ- waters and more than 500 metres principle of non-resistance. anymore, but Dima has been In an open letter in the Lancet last month, more than 50 prominent ists that is composed of two jour- from an oil platform belonging to A year ago, Greenpeace activ- arrested under Russian President physicians from around the world described these horrific conditions nalists, a doctor, a cook and other the Russian oil giant Gazprom. ists made a similar peaceful pro- Vladimir Putin — a former mem- and pleaded: “Let us treat patients in Syria.” Similarly, Medecins Sans members of the crew of the Arctic Several Greenpeace dinghies test, placing a banner on the ber of the Soviet secret police, Frontieres (MSF) has repeatedly asked that diplomatic efforts aim Sunrise icebreaker. They repre- approached the platform, and same oil platform in plain view the KGB. Is it not the time to to “provide emergency assistance to the people of Syria” and to “lift sent 18 countries. Dima and the those aboard attempted to place of the Russian Coast Guard. No break the cycle? the humanitarian blockade.” The International Committee of the Red ship’s captain, Pete Willcox, are on a platform wall a banner pro- one tried to stop them, and the Pavel Litvinov, a former Soviet Cross has called for “full access to all areas of the country.” the only Americans. testing oil drilling in the fragile action went almost unnoticed dissident and retired mathemat- The international community must collaborate to support and safe- Dima was born in Russia and, Arctic. by the world press — indeed, the ics and physics teacher who lives in guard immediate humanitarian access in Syria. The same resolve and at age 6, joined me in a Siberian Their attempt was peaceful but world — at that time. Irvington, New York, is a member of urgency that rapidly crafted an effort to eliminate chemical weapons mining village where I was sen- unsuccessful, and they returned to Greenpeace is a well-recog- the board of the Andrei Sakharov must be directed toward this purpose. tenced to exile and labour. He the Arctic Sunrise. Then Russian nised international organisation Foundation. Samer Attar is an assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at spent four years there with me. commandos attacked the ship. that uses only peaceful means. Its WP-BLOOMBERG Northwestern University. WP-BLOOMBERG MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 10 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com INTERNATIONAL Obama ‘knew of Merkel phone tap since 2010’ Sense of betrayal spreads in many world capitals

BERLIN: US President Barack debt crisis and is widely seen as Obama was personally informed Europe’s most powerful leader. of phone tapping against German As a result, the NSA stepped Chancellor Angela Merkel which up its surveillance of her com- may have begun as early as 2002, munications, targeting not only according to media reports stok- the mobile phone she uses to con- ing anger over a spiralling espio- duct business for her conserva- nage scandal. tive Christian Democratic Union Bild am Sonntag newspaper party but also her encrypted offi- quoted US intelligence sources cial device. as saying that National Security Merkel only acquired the lat- Agency chief Keith Alexander had ter handset over the summer. briefed Obama on the operation Bild said US specialists were then against Merkel in 2010. able to monitor the content of her “Obama did not halt the opera- conversations as well as text mes- tion but rather let it continue,” sages, which Merkel sends by the the newspaper quoted a high- dozen each day to key associates. ranking NSA official as saying. Only the specially secured land News weekly Der Spiegel line in her office was out of the reported that leaked NSA docu- reach of the NSA, which sent the ments showed that Merkel’s phone intelligence gathered straight to had appeared on a list of spying the White House bypassing the targets since 2002, and was still A file piicture of German Chancellor agency’s headquarters, according under surveillance weeks before Angela Merkel using a SonyEricsson to the report. Obama visited Berlin in June. mobile phone at the IT trade fair Bild and Spiegel described a hive A boat is dragged from its mooring on the beach and destroyed by large waves near Brighton Marina, in southern As a sense of betrayal spread CeBIT in Hanover, Germany. of spy activity on the fourth floor of England, yesterday ahead of a predicted storm. in many world capitals allegedly the US embassy in central Berlin, a monitored by the NSA, European that bind us and that we need stone’s throw from the government leaders were calling for a new deal more than ever to jointly shape quarter, from which the United with Washington on intelligence the future in the globalised world States kept tabs on Merkel and Britain braces for storm today gathering that would maintain of the 21st century,” he said in a other German officials. an essential alliance while keep- statement. Merkel confronted Spiegel cited a classified 2010 LONDON: Hurricane-force chaired a meeting between the brings the potential for signifi- ing the fight against terrorism on Obama with the snooping allega- document indicating that US winds are forecast to disrupt Environment Agency, forecasters cant disruption ... and that doesn’t track. Germany will send its own tions in a phone call Wednesday intelligence had 80 high-tech sur- road, rail and airport networks and government departments to happen very often.” The Met spy chiefs to Washington soon to saying that such spying would be veillance offices worldwide in cit- today when one of the strongest discuss contingency plans for the Office warned of potential disrup- demand answers. a “breach of trust”. ies including Paris, Madrid, Rome, storms in decades is expected to impact of the storm. tion to transport and power sup- Swiss President Ueli Maurer The Frankfurter Allgemeine Prague, Geneva and Frankfurt. hit the southern half of Britain Britain’s rail network opera- plies. Winds peaked at more than warned that the scandal risked Sonntagszeitung reported without If the spying against Merkel during rush-hour, forecasters tor said a revised timetable was 110 mph when the 1987 storm hit “undermining confidence between citing its sources that Obama had began in 2002, it would mean the warned yesterday. already being put in place on some without warning, causing millions states”. “We don’t know if we’re told Merkel during their call that United States under then presi- Local media dubbed the storm routes while the Highways Agency of pounds of damage and provok- only seeing the tip of the iceberg or he had been unaware of any spy- dent George W Bush targeted her “Saint Jude”, after the patron warned road bridges may need to ing criticism of Britain’s national if other governments are acting in ing against her, while Spiegel said while she was still the country’s saint of lost causes who is tra- be closed. London’s Heathrow air- forecaster. the same ruthless manner,” he told he assured her that he would have chief opposition leader, three years ditionally celebrated on October port said it was expecting delays The Met Office said advances in the Schweiz am Sonntag weekly. stopped the operation at once. before she became chancellor. 28, and made comparisons to 1987 and cancellations. forecasting technology had allowed As anger simmered in Berlin, Merkel’s office declined to com- Bild said Merkel’s predecessor when a storm killed 18 people in “The thing that’s unusual it to predict today’s storm well in Interior Minister Hans-Peter ment on what Obama told her. Gerhard Schroeder was also in the Britain and felled some 15 mil- about this one is that most of advance, and that it had started Friedrich sharpened his tone. The White House has said it NSA’s sights because of his vocal lion trees. our storms develop out over the discussions with local councils, “Surveillance is a crime and those is not monitoring Merkel’s phone opposition to the US invasion of The storm is expected to bring Atlantic so that they’ve done all emergency services and transport responsible must be brought to calls and will not do so in future, Iraq and close relationship with 80mph winds and heavy rain to their strengthening and deepen- operators early last week. Last year justice,” he told Bild, as Foreign but it has refused to say whether Russian President Vladimir Putin. Britain early today. The winds ing by the time they reach us,” a storm with winds of up to 81 mph Minister Guido Westerwelle it did previously. Bild said Obama A poll for the newspaper found could affect commuter routes Met Office spokeswoman Helen hit parts of Scotland in what the called spying among friends wanted to be informed in detail that 60 percent of Germans north of London and across the Chivers said. Met Office said was Britain’s most “highly damaging”. about Merkel, who has played believe the scandal has damaged central region, the Met Office said. “This one is developing as it severe storm since 1998. “It threatens to undermine ties a decisive role in the eurozone bilateral ties. AFP Prime Minister David Cameron crosses the UK, which is why it REUTERS

Stallone’s art exhibition I have not sold her, says Maria’s Ally of Georgia PM to Bulgarian mother be president: Exit polls

SOFIA: The Bulgarian Roma TBILISI: Georgy Margve- group, gave him 68 percent. mother of Maria, a young blonde lashvili, an ally of billion- Both exit polls put his near- girl whose fate made headlines aire Prime Minister Bidzina est rival, former parliamentary around the world when she was Ivanishvili, won a landslide vic- speaker and Saakashvili ally David found in a Greek Roma camp, tory in a presidential election Bakradze, on around 20 percent. tearfully denied yesterday that in Georgia yesterday, exit polls Margvelashvili had required only she had sold her daughter. showed. one vote over 50 percent to secure “I have not sold her! I have not... The little-known former dep- victory outright and avert a run- I gave her, I made a mistake. But uty premier’s triumph cements off. “It seems that the picture is I haven’t taken any money,” Sasha the Georgian Dream coalition’s clear, and the final results will not Ruseva, 35, told private televi- grip on power following Mikheil be much different from the exit sion station TV7 in her first pub- Saakashvili’s 10-year rule, polls,” Bakradze said in televised lic appearance since DNA tests although it is unlikely to end comments. proved on Friday that she was political uncertainty in the former Accepting defeat, he said: “I con- Maria’s biological mother. Soviet republic. gratulate Georgy Margvelashvili “I want Maria back! I am her His victory will put Georgian on his victory. As the leader of the mother, how could I not want Dream in charge of both the opposition, I will be ready to work her. I do not care what they say. presidency and the government with the new president.” I want Maria back with me,” she for the first time, a year after it A 44-year-old academic said through tears. The four-year- ousted Saakashvili’s cabinet at the brought into government last old girl was wrongfully thought polls. GfK, a leading European year as education minister, and to be a Western European child market research group, put then promoted to deputy premier, abducted by a Roma couple she Three visitors stand in front of the painting ‘Champion Due’ during the art exhibition titled ‘Sylvester Stallone. Margvelashvili on 66.7 percent Margvelashvili owes his rapid rise was found living with the family Paintings From 1975 Until Today’ at the Russian Museum in St. Petersburg yesterday. The exhibition by of votes cast yesterday. ACT, a entirely to Ivanishvili. near the Greek town of Farsala. Sylvester Stallone, who has worked on his pieces for more than 30 years, consists of 36 paintings. Georgian public opinion research REUTERS Greek and Bulgarian police however tracked down her real parents to a Roma ghetto in the central Bulgarian town of Nikolaevo on Thursday and are now investigating the mother for allegedly selling the child in Greenpeace activists hit out at detention conditions Greece in 2009. Maria is currently in the care of Smile of the Child, GENEVA: Three of the questions submitted to him. sentence of up to seven years in the regime and its severe limita- his disappointment when the an Athens-based charity. Greenpeace activists held in Weber said he had to remain a penal colony. tions,” he wrote. “Now the diffi- ‘chicken’ he had looked forward to “I gave birth to her in Lamia (in Russia following a protest huddled up in his winter jacket to Letters and notes from two culty is the silence and ignorance turned out to be inedible pigeon. Greece). I raised her until she was against Arctic drilling have try to keep warm in the unheated British activists were also pub- imposed by our detention. Any Another Briton, seasoned seven months old. Then I had to given an insight into their cell, and his feet were cold. lished in newspapers on Sunday, shred of news or kind message activist Frank Hewetson, wrote return to Bulgaria to take care of detention conditions in com- He said he found his daily exer- revealing marginally better that filters through the layers of to the Independent on Sunday my other children when my eld- ments published yesterday, with cise break “degrading”. “I walk conditions but a similar level of bureaucracy is clung to.” offering a dry take on his predica- est daughter, who was caring for one complaining he was kept in around alone in a closed-off space anguish. “In many ways I’m lucky He described his cell, which ment, styled as if he were offering them, got married,” Ruseva said. isolation in a cold cell. measuring four by five metres (13 I don’t have children who depend he shares with another man, a a travel feature. She said she could not bring the “The solitude is weighing on me x 16 feet), with concrete floors and on me,” wrote Kieron Bryan, a Russian speaker, as 26 x 13 foot “The observations may be a baby back with her as she did not and I am miserable,” Swiss activist walls and no windows, no natu- 29-year-old video-journalist, in (eight by four metres). trifle limited to 30-foot wall, have any documents. “A young Marco Weber, 28, said in a letter ral light,” he said, adding that the response to questions submitted “I spend 23 hours a day in here rolls of barbed wire, dog fence, woman came to me and said: ‘I do published by the SonntagsZeitung space was “dirty and humid”. by the Sunday Times. with nothing but the occasional watch tower and more barbed not have children. Give her to me. I’ll and Le Matin Dimanche weeklies. But Weber said he was “sure he “But the fear of losing years book and my thoughts,” he wrote. wire but one does get smells and take care of her just as you would. He said he had been held for did the right thing” in joining the of my life and the opportunity “We are granted an hour a day for some ambience of location,” the Come back to Greece to take her 24 days in isolation in the prison protest at a Gazprom oil platform to perhaps start a family is ter- exercise which is held in a shed 45-year-old wrote. He said the when you can’,” Ruseva recalled. in the northern Russian region of on September 18, which resulted rifying.” Bryan said the hardest about 30 metres from my cell. If cell, which he appears to share Ruseva and her mentally ill Murmansk, and had no contact in 30 Greenpeace activists being moment of his incarceration was I’m lucky I might get to shout a with two heavy smokers, meas- husband Atanas, 38, have another with the outside world besides arrested and charged with piracy. his first night in prison where he quick hello to an English speaker.” ured five metres by two metres nine children. “I am not a crimi- regular visits from the Swiss Weber’s letter was written was placed in a cell with Russian Bryan complained about the (15 x 6 feet), but joked this is nal,” Ruseva pleaded, saying that consul. “The situation is hard before Russian prosecutors last criminals. food—lunch was a soup and fish “somewhat larger” than some she was now “scared” by the pos- to take... The days are long,” week reduced the charges to hoo- “Once it was clear we weren’t stew that “tastes like an ashtray Japanese hotel rooms. sibility of going to to jail. AFP he wrote in answer to written liganism, which carries a lesser in physical danger you adapt to full of seawater” — and admitted AFP MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 ASIA / PHILIPPINES www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 11

Sri Lanka Five dead as opens $292m airport highway COLOMBO: Sri Lanka opened a $292m Chinese-funded air- strike grips port highway yesterday, amid Indian concern about Chinese influence as the island nation rebuilds after a nearly three- decade war. Sri Lanka has invested heavily Bangladesh in infrastructure since the war ended in 2009 with defeat for separatist Tamil Tiger rebels. The new 25.6km airport Political deadlock continues highway was built with a loan of $248.2m from Exim Bank of DHAKA: At least five peo- opposition leader Khaleda Zia late China, with China Metallurgical ple were killed in nation- on Saturday failed to defuse the Group Corporation as the wide clashes and trains were mounting crisis. contractor. attacked as Bangladesh’s oppo- Zia rejected Hasina’s appeal China provided weapons to Sri sition yesterday began a strike to call off the strike during a Lanka in the final phase of the to demand the prime minister 40-minute phone conversation — civil war and President Mahinda quit and make way for polls believed to be the first time in at Rajapaksa’s government has under a caretaker government. least a decade that the two “bat- awarded more than $4bn worth of Police said officers opened fire tling begums” have spoken. infrastructure projects to China, at protesters in the western town “Begum” is an honorific for a mainly with Chinese loans. of Nagarkanda after some 3,000 Muslim woman of rank. India, Sri Lanka’s giant neigh- supporters of the main opposi- The opposition has called the Villagers look at a motor bike set alight by opposition supporters during a nationwide strike called by the opposition bour, shared intelligence with tion Bangladesh Nationalist Party strike and protests in a bid to Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in Ishurdi, 200km from Dhaka, yesterday. Colombo late in the war, but has (BNP) ransacked a rural market force Hasina’s government to also asked Rajapaksa to seek a and attacked police with bricks. resign ahead of elections due in dead and hundreds injured. Protesters also attacked two that the party was still open to political solution to the conflict’s “We opened fire in self-defence,” January 2014, and set up a care- Security was tight in the capi- trains in the northwestern dis- talks if Hasina agreed to set up a root causes. district police chief Jamil Ahsan taker administration of techno- tal yesterday, with around 10,000 trict of Joypurhat, setting fire to neutral government. Rajapaksa’s government has said, adding that one opposition crats to oversee the polls. paramilitaries and police officers a carriage and injuring several “Since Friday 12 of our activists come under heavy pressure from activist was killed in the firing Zia, who has twice served as deployed, Dhaka police spokes- people, local police chief Hamidul have been killed and more than the West and human rights and five were wounded. premier, has branded the gov- man Masudur Rahman said. Alam said. 500 injured. Police have arrested groups for alleged war crimes. Four other people were killed ernment “illegal”, citing a legal Two ruling party supporters Clashes between opposition more than 1,500 of our support- The Sri Lankan president, elsewhere as the three-day strike provision that requires a neutral were beaten and stabbed to death protesters and police and ruling ers,” he said. responding to Indian concerns got under way, with protests government to be set up three by opposition supporters, police party activists also erupted in at Tensions have been rising in over Chinese commercial deals, erupting across the country and months before elections. officials said, while separately least a dozen other towns and cit- Bangladesh since Hasina’s ruling has said the relationship with thousands of extra police and par- Hasina said such an arrange- two activists from the country’s ies, leaving scores injured includ- Awami League party rejected an China is more commercial than amilitary officers deployed. ment is unconstitutional, propos- largest Islamic party, Jamaat-e- ing some hit by bullets, police and October 24 deadline set by the political in nature. In Dhaka, opposition support- ing instead an all-party interim Islami, were also killed. local media said. BNP for accepting its demands. Sri Lanka has planned over $6 ers torched buses and exploded government led by her to oversee One of the activists of Jamaat, Deputy Law Minister Quamrul While the nation has a long bn worth of projects, including more than a dozen home-made the January polls. But the BNP a key BNP ally, was shot dead Islam blamed the opposition for history of political violence, this airports and sea ports, highways, bombs, while police retaliated rejected the proposal, claiming it during clashes with police in the the fighting, telling a ruling party year has been the deadliest since coal and hydro power plants and with tear gas and rubber bullets. would allow Hasina to rig results. western city of Rajshahi. rally in Dhaka that “we wanted Bangladesh gained independence railways, mainly to be funded by Shops, businesses and schools Saturday’s phone talks came a “There were 400-500 opposi- to talk, but they chose the path in 1971. At least 150 people have Chinese loans. were shut for fear of the violence. day after tensions rose as opposi- tion supporters who exploded of violence”. been killed since January after a The BNP and its Islamist tion supporters clashed with the small bombs and attacked police,” But BNP spokesman Rizvi controversial court began handing allies ordered the strike after ruling party and police in cit- the deputy police commissioner Ahmed accused the government down death sentences on Islamist last-minute talks between Prime ies and towns across the nation, in Rajshahi, Proloy Chisim said, of ordering police to attack its leaders allied to ex-premier Zia. Stunt at Unesco Minister Sheikh Hasina and leaving at least seven people confirming the shooting death. peaceful demonstrations, adding AFP heritage site draws ire

MANILA: Philippine conser- vationists hit out yesterday at a Japan’s premier warns China on use of force wakeskating “stunt” that took place at an ancient mountain rice terrace, accusing sponsors TOKYO: Japan’s leader warned must conduct all sorts of activities an apparent sign of Japan’s inten- interview published Saturday. Ocean and back again but did not of exploiting the Unesco World China yesterday against forcibly such as surveillance and intelli- tion to strengthen its ability to “So it shouldn’t take that path, violate Japan’s airspace, it said. Heritage site. changing the regional balance gence for that purpose,” Prime protect remote islands. and many nations expect Japan The Japanese defence ministry Professional wakeskaters Brian of power, as reports said Tokyo Minister Shinzo Abe said in an The defence ministry plans to to strongly express that view. was not immediately available for Grubb of the United States and had scrambled fighter jets in address to the military. create a special amphibious unit And they hope that as a result, confirmation. Dominik Preisner of Germany response to Chinese military “The security environment to protect the southern islands China will take responsible action Japan’s military is on are shown on a video on YouTube aircraft flying near Okinawa. surrounding Japan is becoming and retake them in case of an in the international community,” increased alert as Tokyo and skimming on the waters of the Verbal skirmishing between increasingly severe. This is the invasion. Abe added. Beijing pursue a war of words Banaue rice terraces in the Asia’s two biggest economies, who reality,” he said. “There are concerns that China Kyodo News reported that over the disputed islands in the Philippines’ northern mountain dispute ownership of an island “You will have to completely is attempting to change the status Japan scrambled jets yesterday East China Sea that lie between region. Wakeskating is similar to chain, escalated as Beijing warned rid yourselves of the conventional quo by force, rather than by rule for the third successive day in Okinawa and Taiwan. the popular water sport wake- Tokyo that any hostile action in notion that just the existence of of law,” Abe earlier told the Wall response to four Chinese military On Saturday China responded boarding but users are not bound the skies against Chinese drones a defence force could act as a Street Journal in an interview fol- aircraft flying over international angrily after a report said Japan to the board. would be construed as an “act of deterrent.” lowing a series of summits this waters near the Okinawa island had drafted plans to shoot down “I noticed that on the back of war”. Abe presided over an inspec- month with regional leaders. chain. foreign drones that encroach on the bills here, you could see all “We will express our intention tion of the military at which a “But if China opts to take that Two Y8 early-warning aircraft its airspace if warnings to leave these rice terraces and tonnes of as a state not to tolerate a change US amphibious assault vehicle path, then it won’t be able to and two H6 bombers flew from are ignored. water,” Grubb says in the video, in the status quo by force. We was displayed for the first time, emerge peacefully,” he said in the the East China Sea to the Pacific AFP which was uploaded on Thursday and already viewed over 241,000 times as of yesterday. “It’s just a wakeskate paradise but no one Fire kills two children even knew it was here.” Although they said they obtained permission from local Jakarta tweets to tribal leaders, the video quickly spread on social media, drawing mixed reactions from Filipinos. “Wakeboarding at the terraces? beat traffic chaos It is a stunt totally inappropri- ate to the site. And stunt it is,” JAKARTA: Fed up with spend- “Indonesians update their sta- Augusto Villalon, president of the ing hours stuck in the gridlocked tus on Facebook and Twitter all Heritage Society, said. Indonesian capital Jakarta, the time, so we thought, why not hundreds of thousands of social share information about traffic media-savvy commuters are jams?” Soelistyo said. tweeting to beat the traffic. Lewatmana, which means “via Philippine The threadbare public trans- where” in Indonesian, mainly pro- port system in the capital of vides information about jams, but quake toll Southeast Asia’s biggest economy, also flags up flooded roads or areas combined with growing spending affected by the city’s frequent dem- climbs to 215 power, has spawned vast numbers onstrations. The platform relies of motorists who are increasingly on its users as well as 100 CCTV MANILA: The death toll from turning to Twitter to conquer jams. cameras installed in office windows the magnitude 7.2 earthquake Road users in Jakarta, the across the city to monitor traffic that ravaged parts of the Visayas Residents walk among debris after an overnight fire that razed a slum area in Makati city, south of Manila, world’s most active city in terms and send out pictures via Twitter. last October 15 has risen to 215 of posted tweets, are using the The service, which fires out more while the amount of property Philippines, yesterday. The blaze killed two children and left at least 2,000 families homeless. microblogging service to warn than 14,000 tweets a month, has damage has exceeded P2.2 bil- fellow travellers of traffic-choked proved a hit and now has around lion, the National Disaster Risk roads or arrange car pooling. 200,000 followers. Reduction and Management Politician held over candidate’s murder Resorting to the web is an act Another attempt to solve Council (NDRRMC) said yes- of desperation for drivers in the Jakarta’s traffic woes through terday. A majority of the families KATHMANDU: Nepalese party, died in hospital after being at the expense of Alam. megacity of 10 million, branded Twitter is a car-pooling com- of the fatalities have been pro- police have arrested a politi- shot in the head in Kathmandu “We suspect that failing to get the world’s most unpleasant place munity called Nebengers, which vided with financial assistance, cian and two other men over earlier this month in an attack the election ticket might be one to commute in a 2011 survey by translates as “hitchhikers” and according to the NDRRMC. the fatal drive-by shooting of a that fuelled fears about security. of the causes behind the mur- consultancy Frost and Sullivan. aims to reduce the number of Two new fatalities were candidate slated to run in next “We have arrested Ram der,” the official said, adding that Hendry Soelistyo was an early vehicles in the city centre. reported yesterday in Bohol, month’s national elections, an Chandra Pyashi Kushbah and two the arrests took place late on pioneer of online tools to tackle “Nebengers is like a virtual car namely Diogracias Valleser, 46, official said yesterday. others in connection with Alam’s Saturday. Alam’s death outraged traffic in Jakarta, where commut- terminal, where we can hitch a of Antequera and Marcelina The killing was the first since murder,” a senior police official the UML, with a party statement ers often spend up to five hours a ride to go to school or the office,” Catalan, 75, of Tubigon. A total of candidates began campaigning involved in the investigation said calling for an urgent investigation day in a slow-moving sea of cars said founder Andreas Aditya 201 fatalities were from Bohol, 13 earlier this month for only the on condition of anonymity. into “political murders”. and motorbikes to get to work. Swasti, 27. It is rare to give lifts from Cebu and one from Siquijor. second national polls to be held Kushbah, also a UML politi- Although more than 100 parties Four years ago the IT entre- to strangers in Indonesia but Eight persons remain missing in the impoverished Himalayan cian and former member of the have fielded candidates, the elec- preneur set up lewatmana.com, Nebengers has still drawn around while 742 others were injured. nation since a decade-long civil constituent assembly or parlia- tions, expected on November 19, a website and associated Twitter 4,000 Twitter followers, with NDRRMC said the bereaved war ended in 2006. ment, was reportedly denied the will be fought mostly between the account through which commut- more than 400 people using the families of 182 fatalities have Mohammad Alam, of the chance to contest elections for UML party, the Nepali Congress ers can share real-time informa- service every day to either get or received P10,000 financial assist- Unified Marxist-Leninist (UML) Bara district in southern Nepal and the Maoists. AFP tion about traffic conditions. give a lift. AFP ance each. AGENCIES MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 12 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com PAKISTAN / AFGHANISTAN Ban offers to facilitate Kashmir talks UN chief urges Pakistan, India to continue talks; use of drones targeting civilians flayed

ISLAMABAD: UN Secretary the pending issues through diplo- happy to do that. What is impor- have been urging the two leaders population and its use should be between the two parties of Syria. General Ban Ki-moon has matic dialogue. I visited Pakistan tant is that at this time Prime to strengthen their bilateral rela- regulated by international law. That is what I have continuously offered to play a role to facili- in August and I had a very good Minister Nawaz Sharif and Prime tions so they can address all their Q. What is the UN position on been urging. They should lay tate a dialogue between India meeting with Prime Minister Minister Manmohan Singh have security issues including dialogue Afghan refugees who are still in down their arms and engage in and Pakistan. Nawaz Sharif. I also met him initiated their high-level dialogue. with the Taliban. Pakistan? a Syrian-led, Syrian-owned dia- In an exclusive interview during the General Assembly. I I hope this high-level dialogue will Q. What has the UN done to A. I am very grateful to the logue so that this crisis can be with Pakistani media at the UN know that the Prime Minister of continue in the future. follow up condemnation of drone Government of Pakistan for resolved harmoniously. Headquarters, he welcomed the Pakistan and Prime Minister of Q. What is the UN position on strikes in Pakistan? accommodating this many refu- That is why I have been work- talks between the prime ministers India had a very good bilateral talking to the Taliban? A. This use of armed unmanned gees (1.6 million). It must have ing very closely with key parties of India and Pakistan and said he meeting on the margins of the A. We have been discussing this aerial vehicles known as UAVs is been a big burden on the already of the Security Council, particu- would be happy to play a role in General Assembly in New York. matter with Afghanistan’s leaders. the subject of long-standing inter- stretched resources of the larly the US and Russia and other facilitating a dialogue between the I hope all this kind of diplo- We have been supporting and try- national law, including interna- Pakistani government. I am also permanent members of the two sides. Ban expressed concern matic consultations and dialogue ing to facilitate this dialogue. This tional humanitarian law. I am grateful that the Pakistani gov- Security Council, to convene a about civilian casualties caused by will help resolve pending issues should be done by the Afghan gov- concerned whether one can ensure ernment has recently extended Geneva-2 Conference. Joint Special drone strikes and urged countries including the current situation in ernment and the representatives of that the use of drones can guaran- their right of stay beyond June Representative Lakhdar Brahimi to abide by international humani- Jammu and Kashmir. the Taliban. It is important that all tee the legitimate target, whether this year. I hope the Pakistani is now visiting the countries in the tarian law. Q. You had offered your serv- this dialogue should lead to even- targeted persons are combatants government will continue to region to consult with key parties. Excerpts of the interview: ices in resolving the Kashmir tual permanent peace and security. or legitimate targets, according to provide necessary humanitarian I sincerely hope we will be able to Q. Secretary General, you had dispute. Do you see yourself and The Afghan people have suffered relevant laws and regulations. assistance to the Afghan refugees. set a date and engage in dialogue. called for talks between India the UN playing a part in resolv- too much due to lack of dialogue When it comes into the hands Q. Some have said that a US The preliminary consultation and Pakistan recently. Are you ing the crisis? and due to violence. of non-state actors, because this attack against Syria would be among key parties will be held on satisfied with progress that has A. I will first encourage the Q. And your response to the technology is being used by many the final blow to the political November 5, as was announced. been made on that front? What leaders of both countries to con- Pakistani government consider- actors, it is very difficult to ensure role of the UN. Did the agree- Brahimi will engage with key is the UN position on Kashmir? tinue their dialogue and if there ing speaking with the Taliban. that this will be used for a proper ment between the US and Russia members of the Security Council. A. I am encouraged by the is an opportunity for the United A. I know that President Hamid purpose. I hope that the countries regarding Syrian chemical weap- It is a very important one. Without recent political move by the Nations and myself as Secretary Karzai of Afghanistan and Prime that are using this technology ons therefore help save the UN’s a political solution we will see so leaders of the two countries, General to play any role to facili- Minister Nawaz Sharif had a good make sure that there are no cas- political relevance? many people tragically being killed. Pakistan and India, to resolve all tate the dialogue, I will be very meeting in August in Islamabad. I ualties on the part of the civilian A. There is no military solution INTERNEWS

‘Black Day’ protest WEF: Gender gap Afghan govt blamed widens further in Pakistan for poll shortcomings ISLAMABAD: This year gender gap has narrowed KABUL: Afghanistan’s inde- voter cards could not be verified. down slightly across the pendent election watchdog The Nato-led force hopes next world, but in Pakistan it blamed the government yester- year’s vote will be credible enough appears to have widened, day for failing to prepare the to mark the country’s first dem- a report said. The ‘Global ground for next year’s presi- ocratic transfer of power before Gender Gap Report 2013‘ dential election, and an opposi- most foreign troops pull out by published by the World tion leader accused President the end of 2014. Economic Forum on Friday Hamid Karzai of trying to influ- But observers are concerned placed Pakistan at 135th ence the vote. about a repeat of the wide-scale in a list of 136 countries. Next year, millions of Afghans fraud seen in the last presiden- According to the report, gen- will vote in what is seen as the tial election in 2009. Critics also der gap continued to widen most important election in believe Karzai seeks to retain in Pakistan, which was Afghanistan since the US-led war a hand in Afghan politics even ranked 134th in 2012 and against Taliban insurgents began after the end of his tenure, a 132nd in 2010. The gender 12 years ago. Karzai is barred charge he denies. Noor said the gap index shows zero per- from running by the constitution, IEC had made several requests to centage in terms of women but months ahead of the vote, the Afghan government to start in top management positions controversy has already emerged the process from scratch and to in Pakistani firms. Similarly, over his role in the process and provide electronic identification there is zero per cent share the allocation of voter cards. cards to all voters. The Afghan of women on boards of listed Yesterday, the Independent government was not immediately companies. However, female Election Commission (IEC) said available for comment. participation in ownership of about a fifth of votes cast in Noor said only about 80 per- Kashmiris protest near the United Nations office in Islamabad yesterday. The demonstrators were observing companies is 7 percent. The favor of candidates as part of this cent of cards could be accounted October 27 as a “Black Day” to protest India’s 67-year presence in the Himalayan region. percentage of men having an month’s registration process could for, while a further three million account in a formal finan- not be verified. “They (the govern- unregistered but usable voter cial institution is 17 percent ment) failed in their mission,” said cards were in circulation from as compared to 3 percent for IEC spokesman Noor Mohammad previous elections. women. The report says that Noor, adding that millions of cards Opposition leader Abdullah Draft bill recognises adulteration male adult unemployment were not electronically registered, Abdullah said he met Karzai a day rate in Pakistan is 4 percent leaving the system vulnerable to earlier to share his concerns. “The of the total male employment manipulation. “We should have scenario in which fraud decides the while female adult unemploy- started the voter registration proc- future of the country is very dam- as serious crime in Islamabad ment rate is 9 percent of the ess from zero.” aging... I mentioned how critical, female labour force. Under Afghan rules, candidates how crucial it is that he remains ISLAMABAD: The draft Supplying or marketing of drink- supply or sale to the public or irri- had to collect 100,000 voter cards neutral,” Abdullah, who came sec- Islamabad Capital Territory ing water for human consumption gating it with sewer or any injuri- 11 Taliban rebels to prove they had a support base, ond in the 2009 elections, said. Local Government Bill 2013 in any form from any contaminated ous liquid as may be injurious to fuelling a black market trade in “Whether it happens or not is a recognises adulteration and source or suspected to be danger- public health or offensive to the surrender arms votes. The quota was then slashed different issue... There has been unsafe storage and sale of eata- ous to the public health, or its use, neighbourhood, is also included by the watchdog because many meddling so far.” REUTERS bles as a serious crime. has also been prohibited. in the list of the offences. KABUL: At least 11 Taliban The draft proposes Rs6,000 The proposed law also sees as It will also be an offence to rebels surrendered with arms fine in case of adulteration and a crime the menace of begging by manufacture, store, trade in or to the Afghan authorities unsafe storage of eatables by large exposing any deformity, disease or carry firecrackers, fire balloons in the country’s Nangarhar restaurants, hotels and shops and an offensive sore or wound. A fine or detonators or any dangerous province, a source said yes- Rs1,000 by small entities. It is a of Rs1,000 has been suggested as chemical, inflammable, hazard- terday. “An 11-member group Bomb kills 18 near Ghazni common complaint in Islamabad the penalty for such an offence. ous or offensive article or mate- of armed opponents gave up that the quality of food available Similarly, discharging dangerous rial without licence from the fighting and handed over GHAZNI: A bomb killed at least 18 civilians, mostly women, as they in the market is not hygienic. chemical, inflammable, hazardous authority. their arms to the authorities travelled by minibus to a wedding party in Andar district of Ghazni The draft law also considers or offensive article into any drain Interestingly, establishing any in Shinwar district Sunday,” province. “The bomb hit a minibus civilian vehicle at 4:30pm that was manufacturing, trading, storing or sewer, watercourse or public parking stand on any property Malik Nazir, provincial High heading to attend a wedding party,” a statement from the interior min- or supplying of any eatable or land in a manner that may cause or on any open space and pub- Peace Council chief, told istry said. “In the attack, 14 women, three men and a child were mar- drink unsafe for human consump- danger to persons passing by or liv- lic park managed, maintained or Xinhua. Peace and stability tyred and five others were wounded... the ministry strongly condemns tion or public health as a crime. ing or working in the neighbour- controlled by the local govern- would be further strength- this brutal attack of the enemies of Afghanistan.” The draft legislation is expected hood will be an offence. ment without sanction will also ened in several parts of the Mosa Khan Akbarzada, Ghazni provincial governor, confirmed the to be placed before the cabinet, Besides, the cultivation of be considered an offence. province with the insur- death toll, describing the attack as a “tragic incident”. AFP probably in its next meeting. agriculture produce or crop, for INTERNEWS gents’ surrender, he added. The Afghan government set up a 70-member High Peace Council and launched Tea shop the peace and reconciliation process in 2010 to encourage Karzai to push Pakistan to reveal Taliban to disarm and give up militancy against the gov- Taliban chief’s whereabouts ernment. Over the past week, more than 40 Taliban fight- KABUL: Afghan President spokesman Aimal Faizi said. ers joined the process across Hamid Karzai will push The High Peace Council is the the country, officials said. Pakistan to reveal the location of Afghan body charged with open- key Taliban commander Mullah ing negotiations with the Taliban. Bomb kills soldier Baradar during trilateral talks Afghan officials believe that to be held in Britain tomorrow, Baradar could encourage Taliban in NW Pakistan officials in Kabul said. leaders to seek a negotiated set- MIRANSHAH: A bomb Baradar was released from jail tlement to end the 12-year insur- killed a soldier and wounded in Pakistan as part of efforts to gency if he were fully at liberty. three others in a restive kick-start Afghanistan’s peace “Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Pakistani tribal region near process, but he has since been promised the release of Mullah the Afghan border yesterday, kept under house arrest, report- Baradar, which they did, but officials said. The explosion edly in Karachi or Peshawar, to Mullah Baradar is still under very took place at Chashma Pul, the fury of Afghanistan. strict supervision by Pakistan 2km east of Miranshah, the “We will look for explana- authorities,” Faizi said. Karzai, capital of North Waziristan tions from the Pakistan govern- Sharif and British Prime Minister tribal region. An official said ment for the exact whereabouts David Cameron will meet tomor- security forces also defused of Mullah Baradar and how can row for the fourth trilateral sum- two bombs planted at differ- An Afghan customer drinks tea in a local tea shop in Kabul yesterday. The war-torn country is one of the world’s Pakistan facilitate direct talks mit designed to foster stability in ent locations in Mir Ali town. poorest, with more than a third of the population living below the poverty line in 2008. between Mullah Baradar and the the volatile south Asia region. AGENCIES High Peace Council,” Karzai’s AFP MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 INDIA www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 13 Death toll in Andhra rains mounts to 42 Chandy hurt in Central team to arrive in Odisha today stone pelting HYDERABAD: The death toll officials in Hyderabad yesterday. KANNUR, KERALA: Kerala in the incessant rains lashing He directed the officials to take Chief Minister Oommen Andhra Pradesh for the last up relief measures on war footing. Chandy was injured after his five days rose to 42 with the He noted that though rains car was stoned by suspected authorities yesterday reporting started receding yesterday, they CPI-M activists here, a party 10 more deaths. damaged crops over 7.99 lakh leader said. Five people were also miss- hectares. The damaged crops Chandy was arriving to attend ing while crops in about eight include cotton over 4.07 lakh the annual athletics meet of lakh hectares were damaged in hectares and paddy 3.48 lakh Kerala Police. the floods caused by heavy rains hectares. Other crops like maize, Speaking to reporters, State under the impact of low pressure groundnut, redgram, sugarcane, Congress Party general secretary area and northeast monsoon. tobacco and blackgram were also T Siddiq said that he was travel- Officials said the rains left damaged. Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi waving to a crowd at a public rally in west Delhi’s Mangolpuri area yesterday, ling with the chief minister in his thousands homeless, inundated The heavy rains caused as Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit (right) looks on. car when the attack occurred. hundreds of villages, dam- breaches to 1,020 minor trriga- “...Stones came from both aged houses, roads and railway tion tanks and damaged roads up sides and I immediately threw tracks. The loss is estimated to to a length of 4,047 kms. my hands around him to protect be `17.27bn. The deaths in rain- The rains cut road links to Rahul confident of Congress him and a stone hit my hand. The related incidents like wall collapse many villages and disrupted glass pieces came flying and hit and drowning were reported from traffic between various cities him on the forehead and injured 10 districts. and towns. The movement of him,” he said. Guntur district accounted for trains was also hit with railway victory in Delhi election State party chief Ramesh eight deaths, Nalgonda seven tracks coming under flood water Chennithala said they suspect and Prakasam six. Four people in Nalgonda and Srikakulam dis- NEW DELHI: Congress Vice listed the achievements of the the capital. “We take every one there was a conspiracy behind were killed in Mahabubnagar and tricts. The state government has President Rahul Gandhi yester- Congress government, which has together and walk. Those who the attack and demanded a probe. three each in Hyderabad, Kurnool, deployed 580 medical teams to day exuded confidence that the ruled Delhi since 1998, citing as come from outside, we hold their “We have called for a statewide Vizianagaram, Chittoor and West provide aid to the victims. Sheila Dikshit-led government examples the rapid expansion of hands and march ahead along protest today (Sunday) night Godavari districts. Two deaths A central team will visit Odisha would return for a fourth term the Delhi Metro, regularisation with them,” he said. against this ghastly attack. There were reported from Warangal today to assess the damage caused in Delhi. He said Dikshit was of unauthorised colonies, and the Gandhi trumpeted the gains is every reason to suspect that district. According to disaster by cyclone Phailin and subsequent responsible for the “transfor- food security bill. of the Congress-led United this was a pre-planned attack management department, 84,769 floods, as the toll in flood-related mation” of the national capital. He said Delhi Metro’s model Progressive Alliance (UPA) gov- and was perhaps done with the people have been evacuated to safer incidents rose to 60, an official “I have full confidence that the was being adopted even by foreign ernment at the centre, listing its knowledge of the Left Democratic places. The authorities opened 225 said. Congress will win again in Delhi,” countries like Indonesia, and that achievements in the past decade, Front leaders... a probe has to be relief camps. Over 21,000 houses The 12-member inter-ministe- Gandhi said yesterday at a public the United Progressive Alliance and focused on the rights-based conducted,” he told reporters. were damaged in 19 districts. rial team, led by Joint Secretary rally in west Delhi’s Mangolpuri government at the centre had acts — Food Security Act and Kannur district has always been Nineteen teams of National of the Ministry of Home Affairs area. given a “shining and world-class” Right to Information, among the stronghold of the Communist Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Rashmi Goel, will be in the state “In the last 15 years, Sheila airport to Delhiites. others. Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) have been deployed in various until the end of the month. Dikshit has transformed Delhi “No one can say ‘there’s been He urged the crowd of about and top party leaders, including districts for rescue and relief During their stay they will make and left no stone unturned in this no development in Delhi’, not 5,000 people to “fight the battle state secretary Pinnarayi Vijayan operations. an on-the-spot assessment of the process,” Gandhi said, praising the even the opposition,” he added. for the Congress”, irrespective of and politburo member Kodiyeri Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar damage, a senior official of the three-time chief minister and the The 43-year-old leader also impediments, and make it victo- Balakrishnan, hail from there. Reddy reviewed the situation at office of the state’s special relief Congress government in Delhi. emphasised that it is Delhi which rious in the December 4 Delhi IANS a meeting with ministers and top commissioner said. IANS The Congress vice president embraces people from outside assembly polls. IANS Slew of festive season offers line-up for NRIs

on-resident Indian Mumbai were sitting on inventory to be converted. (NRI) money is pour- of 48 months, while Delhi and Public sector giant, Punjab ing into bank accounts Bangalore real estate inventory National Bank has announced Nand deposits in banks was at around 23 months and 25 a series of new schemes with in India. The volatility of the months, respectively. the onset of festival season for Indian rupee and certain attempts Nearly all major banks and retail Loans by way of offering by the Indian planners to shore financial institutions are now full waiver of processing fee on up its value have combined to queuing up with promises to make Housing, Car, Two-Wheeler and present unprecedented earning the forthcoming festive season Personal Loans for purchase of opportunities for Indians living sweeter for non-resident Indians Consumer Durables. Further, and working outside the country. in particular. They are offer- Rate of Interest on Car Loans The going has become even better ing anything from lower inter- slashed to 10.65 percent on fixed now with a flurry of ‘festive offers’ est rates on home and personal basis, rate of interest on two- in India for NRIs. loans, concessions in documen- wheeler loans slashed to 12.25 per With real estate invento- tation fees, preferential rates on cent on fixed rate basis and ROI ries swelling up with developers foreign currency conversion and on personal loans for purchase and builders and liquidity rising assistance in property searching of consumer durables slashed to sharply with Indian banks, it is to discounted medical procedures. 12.75 percent on fixed basis. These not surprising that real estate rates are lesser by one to 2.50 per sellers and banks are both offer- cent from the existing floating ing mouth-watering deals to those THE NR EYE rates. with foreign currencies in their The bank has also introduced pockets. Moiz Mannan two special schemes for NRIs, i.e Global consultancy Jones Lang PNB Global Foreign Currency LaSalle (JLL) India has averred The newest offer has come Deposit and Scheme and Rupee that real estate is a better option from ICICI Bank , the country’s Deposit Scheme. Under these for NRIs to invest rather than largest private sector lender. The Schemes, NRIs are entitled to high-yielding bank deposits. One bank is offering a preferential following additional. benefits/ of its top officials was quoted by rate on foreign currency conver- concessions if a certain minimum the media recently as saying that sion, giving special offers on hous- deposit is mmaintained. in the firm’s observation of the ing loans and providing assistance Indiabulls Housing Finance Ltd last two decades, NRIs have been for searching properties. (IBHFL) has unveiled a special losing out when they put money Also, non-resident custom- festive home loan offer at 10.25 in such bank deposits during vola- ers of the bank can avail of as per cent, for the ongoing festive tile times. many as 77 medical tests at a season. They have missed out on overall discount; their family members This offer is applicable for all capital returns, because the per- can open no-minimum-balance new sanctions till November 30 ceived benefits of high interest savings accounts with the pri- and first disbursement availed by rates are actually eroded by the vate lender. December 31 this year. depreciating rupee. ICICI Bank would charge a Another public sector heavy- The experts are confident that flat processing fee of Rs 5,000 weight, Canara Bank has also over the long term, well-picked on home loans up to `7.5m and recently launched two new hous- properties surely yield multi-fold `10,000 on housing loans exceed- ing schemes for NRIs and High returns that are higher than any ing `7.5m. The bank also has Networth Individuals (HNIs), other asset class. Obviously, the a referral arrangement with in a bid to cash in on the festive timing has to be right and people its arm ICICI Home Finance fervour. have to seek out the troughs. A Company, which provides prop- Home loans of up to Rs 30 JLL report earlier said prices of erty search facilities in India. lakh would be available to an residential properties are set to ICICI Bank has also tied up with NRI at the base rate of 9.95 per fall because of rising inventories a clinical diagnostic laboratory, to cent, while loans in the bracket of across India’s big cities. offer customers special discounts `3-7.5m will be available at a rate The number of unsold flats on preventive health check-ups. of 10 percent. in metropolitan cities such as For a limited period, the bank’s Loans of above `7.5m would Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore non-resident customers can also attract `10.20 percent. Bank of are near a record high, near- avail of a range of preferential India has also introduced festive ing the 2007 levels — the year rates on foreign currency conver- offers on home loans, vehicle loans when the US sub-prime crisis sion at select branches in India. and consumer durables during the led to a global collapse in housing The rates would vary, depending festive period. activities. JLL said developers in on the currency and the amount THE PENINSULA MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 14 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com INDIA Five killed in serial blasts at Modi rally Deliberate move to create tension in Bihar: Nitish

NEW DELHI: Campaigning Bharatiya Janata Party, began an responsibility for the blasts. for India’s tight national elec- aggressive campaign to oust the However, police say they have tion turned violent yesterday ruling Congress-led coalition. detained some people for when a series of blasts ahead of To his critics Modi is a deeply questioning. opposition candidate Narendra polarising figure under whose The massive rally was intended Modi’s rally in an eastern watch Muslims were massacred as a show of strength in Bihar Indian city left five people dead in deadly rioting in 2002 in the where the governing party broke and 83 wounded. western state of Gujarat which off a 17-year alliance with the BJP At least six crude bombs he has governed for three straight after it picked Modi as its candi- exploded near a public ground in terms. Yesterday, he sought to date to lead the party. Patna where tens of thousands of broaden his appeal, saying Hindus The state sends 40 lawmakers people had gathered to hear Modi and Muslims both needed to be to the lower house of parliament as he took his campaign to the big lifted out of poverty. and could prove decisive in a new heartland state of Bihar for next “Do you want to fight against government’s formation. summer’s national election. poverty or against Hindus?,” he The BJP has picked up sup- “There was a blast right behind asked. “Poor Muslims have to port since elevating Modi as its me. I heard people saying that one fight against poverty. Poor Hindus candidate for prime minister Smoke rises after a bomb exploded near a public ground where Gujarat’s chief minister and the prime ministerial of the tyres of a vehicle has burst,” have to fight against poverty.” last month, but would need allies candidate of BJP Narendra Modi was to address a rally, in Patna, yesterday. said a witness. Modi did not mention the to form a government, two new “When I went to the spot, I saw blasts in his speech, but later opinion polls showed earlier this “Police is probing the serial He announced a compensation coincides with the rally. It was a many people lying injured on the called them “deeply saddening month. blasts and will come out with of `500,000 to the kin of each vic- deliberate attempt to create ten- ground.” and unfortunate” on Twitter. He Bihar Chief Minister Nitish solid revelation in next 48 hours,” tim killed in the blasts and said sion in the atmosphere,” Nitish Television channels showed appealed for peace and calm. Kumar yesterday said the serial Nitish Kumar told a specially con- the state would foot the medical Kumar said. pictures of shattered windows of Police inspector general Sushil blasts were aimed at vitiating the vened press conference here. He expenses of the injured. He said that initial investiga- buses, smoke billowing and people M Khopde said five people were atmosphere in Bihar. also condemned the blasts. “It appeared to us the serial tion suggests the motive was to running in panic. killed in the blasts. Three unex- He said police were probing The state government has blasts were planned to vitiate create trouble, a matter of seri- It was the first outbreak of vio- ploded bombs were found at the the blasts and an alert has been already sought help of the the atmosphere and create trou- ous concern. “It is a blot on the lence since Modi, the challenger venue of the rally. sounded across the state and National Investigation Agency for ble across Bihar. Those behind the peaceful atmosphere of Bihar,” he from the Hindu nationalist No one has claimed security tightened further. probing the blasts, he said. blasts have chosen the day that added. REUTERS/IANS Gorkhaland outfit back with separate state demand DARJEELING: The display of out of the syllabus” and vowed to demand, why should we be told to attitude of the Banerjee govern- more than 1,000 GJM leaders and appropriate. But what can we do? camaraderie between the West work jointly for development of let go of our statehood demand? ment was a hindrance in running supporters were arrested in a bid She is running the government. Bengal government and separa- Darjeeling hills. We will now take the Gorkhaland the council. by the administration to crack But how long can we tolerate?” tist Gorkha Janmukti Morcha But only two days later, party demand to Delhi on 21st, 22nd “She asks us to run the GTA, down on the Gorkhaland move- asked Gurung. He also claimed (GJM) was cut short yesterday supremo Bimal Gurung yester- and 23rd December. We will cre- but can the GTA be run like ment in Darjeeling hills following the Trinamool Congress was after the Gorkha outfit once day questioned the attitude of ate pressure in Delhi now,” said this with so much interference? the Congress and UPA’s endorse- accommodating “Maoists” in its again raised the Gorkhaland the state government and said his Gurung. Whenever she comes here, her ment of Telangana. ranks. demand. party will pressurise New Delhi The GJM, which earlier said words make us feel aggrieved. She “I would like to ask the chief “She calls us Maoists but it’s The GJM, after a meeting for its Gorkhaland demand. it wanted to run the Gorkhaland should choose her words care- minister why she is using the her party workers who are former with Chief Minister Mamata “The GJM will not drop the Territorial Administration (GTA) fully,” said Gurung. police administration in her Maoists. There is a need for inves- Banerjee on Friday, said the Gorkhaland demand. When the — the autonomous hill council — He also accused the Banerjee attempts to extend her politi- tigation into this,” added Gurung. “issue of Gorkhaland was now centre can accept the Telangana did a volte face and claimed the government of excesses after cal interests? Her attitude is not IANS

Monday 28 October 2013 23 Dhul-Hijja 1434 Volume 18 Number 5866 Price: QR2

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QR717.6m profit for Bahrain in early stages of Ezdan Holding QNB makes DOHA: Ezdan Holding Group recorded a net profit of QR717.6m for the bank mergers, says official nine months period ended September 30, 2013 in com- DUBAI: Bahrain is still in the parison to a net profit of it to top early stages of a series of bank QR261m for the correspond- mergers designed to strengthen ing period last year. the sector in the face of regional The company’s Earnings competition, the central bank per Share (EPS) amounted to governor said. QR 0.27 for the period versus The tiny kingdom’s banking QR 0.10 for the corresponding global list industry, once the most vibrant period in 2012, the Group said in the Gulf, was hit hard by the in a Qatar Exchange filing. global financial crisis and, since Ezdan Holding Group 2011, by political unrest which has announced that its Board of Bank among top 10 value creators deterred some foreign investment. Directors decided to post- But Rasheed Al Maraj said pone its Ordinary General in the post 2008 crisis period there were signs of recovery in the Assembly (AGM) which was sector, which would be aided by a scheduled yesterday. DOHA: The region’s leading total shareholder return at 1,616 central bank policy of encourag- bank QNB has been adjudged global companies for the five- ing mergers and acquisitions. as one of the Top Ten Value year period from 2008 through Islamic lender Al Salam Bank Mannai’s net profit Creators during the post-2008 2012. In addition to analysing the said in September it had agreed financial crisis period. In a 1,616-company comprehensive to merge with fellow Bahraini grows by 12.3pc Global Ranking, QNB found its sample, BCG separately evaluated lender BMI Bank, an affiliate of DOHA: Mannai place in the top 10 value crea- those companies with market val- Oman’s Bank Muscat, through a Corporation recorded a net tors of 25 industrial sectors that uations of more than $50bn. share swap. The deal is expected profit of QR290.2m for the delivered growth ranging from “Sustainable earnings growth is to create the kingdom’s fourth- nine month period ended 6 percent to 27 percent on aver- the key to long-term value crea- largest commercial bank. 30th September, 2013, an age per year. tion in the GCC and globally”, Khaleeji Commercial Bank, 47 increase of 12.3 percent over After analysing the perform- said Markus Massi, Partner and percent owned by Gulf Finance the same period last year. ances of global banks during Managing Director and BCG’s House, said in June that it was The company’s total reve- 2008-2012, QNB was ranked Regional Head of the Corporate evaluating a potential merger nue increased from QR 3.2bn seven in the “Global Top Ten Development Practice. BCG has with local lender Bank Al Khair. to QR 4.1bn, 27 percent more Bank” category, up above the recently conducted a survey with And in March, National Bank than the same period last banking majors in countries like institutional investors and invest- of Bahrain and a local pension year. Indonesia, India and Malaysia, the ment banks analysing other crite- fund bought a 51.6-percent stake Alekh Grewal, Group Chief Boston Consulting Group’s (BCG) ria for their investment decision. in Bahrain Islamic Bank from Executive Officer and Director 15th annual Value Creators report The BCG analysis found the Kuwait’s Investment Dar in a deal said: “Mannai Corporation is revealed. average annual TSR for the 1,616 worth around BD34.9m ($92.6m). working towards building a Group Financiero Inbursa companies was approximately 4 Maraj, in an email interview strong international business. (Mexico), Bank Central Asia percent. during the Reuters Middle East The Board’s medium term (Indonesia) and Bank Mandiri The average annual TSR for Investment Summit, said the strategy, has three main aims: (Indonesia) were the first three the 25 industry sectors ranged merger wave was still only start- to maintain a strong capital banks ranked first, second and from 11 percent to 8 percent. ing and would eventually have a base for growth, expansion of third respectively in the top 10 The average TSR of the top bigger impact on the sector. the Company’s overseas earn- list in the banking sector. QNB ten companies in each industry “What has evolved to date is ings and the continued devel- The Central Bank of Bahrain in Manama, yesterday. was the only bank in the region outpaced their industry averages the beginning of what the CBB opment of our core business that got entry to the list. by between 11 percent age points believes will be a structured, in Qatar.” The big winners in global equity (in insurance) and 32 percentage focused, and properly imple- Bahrain, a large number for a Bahrain from $156.7bn at the end “Today we are well into markets since the 2008 financial points (in pharmaceuticals). mented series of mergers and country of just 1.3 million people. of 2010 to $118.3bn in August this realising that vision with crisis have been those companies Companies from emerging acquisitions which are designed Bahrain has faced sporadic year, according to central bank more than 55 percent of that have successfully fought the markets continue to dominate to enhance both the specific insti- political unrest and demonstra- data. total profits attributable to economic headwinds and deliv- the global top ten, with the major- tutions and the overall health and tions since February 2011, when Maraj said that in the wake of international assets held by ered above-average growth. ity coming from countries such strength of the financial industry,” mass protests led by the mostly the global crisis, banks in Bahrain Mannai Corporation,” Grewal For instance, the report noted as Brazil, the Philippines, Russia he said. Shia opposition were suppressed had restructured their businesses said. QNB found its place in the list and Thailand. “By doing this, Bahraini banks by the Sunni-led government. by shifting focus towards rela- Earnings per share with a 28 percent equity growth The BCG report also describes will be better equipped to compete This, along with damage to the tively stable activities and reduc- decreased due to the rights and 17.4 percent TSR (Total the advantage of a focus on TSR in the regional markets.” international banking system ing their real estate exposure. issue of November, 2012 to Shareholder Return). in order to make sure a company The central bank lists 75 con- from the global financial crisis, Most international banks were fund the Damas acquisition. The 2013 Value Creators rank- delivers growth that actually cre- ventional bank licensees and contributed to a drop in the com- focusing on their domestic mar- THE PENINSULA ings are based on an analysis of ates value. THE PENINSULA 24 Islamic bank licensees in bined assets of wholesale banks in kets. REUTERS

Syphax Airlines: An Arab Spring success story Rolls-Royce Doha announces

TUNIS: The growth of a small Frikha noted that he had 17pc sales growth in Q3 Tunisian airline over the past obtained a licence to launch his two years is a rare success story airline just months after the DOHA: Rolls-Royce Motor technology and engineering with in an economy ravaged by the overthrow of Ben Ali — a proc- Cars Doha, the authorised timeless contemporary design, the country’s 2011 revolution - and ess which could have taken years dealer of Rolls-Royce Motor latest expression of Phantom has, it points to the potential for under the old regime. Syphax, Cars in Qatar, has announced a once again, redefined the luxury more successes if political sta- which describes itself as a “hybrid” 17 percent growth in sales of the car market, providing a mod- bility can be restored. airline with characteristics of both ultra-luxury vehicle in the third ern interpretation of the luxury Corporate investment and tour- budget carriers and full-service quarter of 2013 compared to the motor car. ist arrivals have shrunk while airlines, competes with state- same period in 2012. The Phantom Coupé also unemployment and inflation owned Tunisair, the much larger The sales growth highlights continued to drive growth for have risen since the overthrow of flag carrier. Tunisair and Syphax the increasing strength of the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha, Tunisia’s autocratic leader Zine Al have had a complex and sometimes ultra-luxury car market in Qatar, contributing 100 percent in terms Abidine Ben Ali in January 2011 rocky relationship, quarrelling and the trust customers have in of sales for the third quarter in launched a protracted period of publicly over the younger carrier’s the world’s pinnacle automotive 2013. There was also solid growth political tensions. right to expand its route network brand. in the Ghost range, particularly Two murders of left-wing poli- and arrangements for Tunisair Commenting on these positive the Ghost Extended Wheelbase ticians triggered months of unrest staff to provide services to Syphax. results, Mohammed Kandeel, (EWB) model, which saw growth this year; the ruling Islamist party The flag carrier is struggling to General Manager of Rolls-Royce of 175 percent as of the third and the opposition began talks last Mohammed Frikha, founder and owner of Syphax Airlines. trim its bloated workforce, a task Motor Cars Doha, said: “We are quarter in 2013. The Ghost is the week on forming a non-partisan which has become more politically committed to delivering the best essence of Rolls-Royce in its sim- cabinet that will hopefully govern sensitive in Tunisia’s post-revolu- and most luxurious motor cars plest, purest form, with advanced until elections next year. “It is important to launch first company, telecommunica- tion climate of union activism. As in the world. We believe in offer- engineering combined with a host It has been a poor environ- investments in times of crisis,” tions engineering venture Telnet, a young airline, Syphax does not ing the highest standards of cus- of hidden technology that creates ment in which to run a business, Frikha, 50, said. “It’s true there in Tunisia in 1994. face this challenge. tomer service this commitment a dynamic yet comfortable drive. but Syphax Airlines has grown are difficulties, but success may Economists hoped the 2011 rev- Political and economic tur- has allowed us to record such Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha since Tunisian businessman be double because of the avail- olutions around the Arab world moil over the past two years has impressive growth.” recently welcomed the third Mohammed Frikha established ability of government incentives would unleash a wave of fresh affected Syphax, Frikha said - The positive results came fol- member of the Rolls-Royce family, it in 2011, just months after the and guarantees... This gives us an investment, by loosening the grip particularly waves of strikes in lowing strong growth in the sales the all-new Rolls-Royce Wraith, revolution. Syphax, which links advantage over competitors which of entrenched business elites who industries supplying the airline. contributions across the whole which made its eagerly-awaited Tunisian cities to destinations might invest after the crisis.” used their connections with auto- But he said the instability had also Rolls-Royce model line-up. arrival in June. The vehicle is the such as Paris, Istanbul, Jeddah As a young man in the Tunisian cratic governments to stifle com- helped Syphax, by allowing it to The Rolls-Royce Phantom, most potent and technologically and Tripoli in Libya, has expanded commercial city of Sfax, Frikha petition. For the most part, this obtain financial incentives and unrivalled in its position as the advanced model ever produced in from operating two planes to four, initially planned to go into his has not happened so far; societies assistance from the government world’s pinnacle automotive vehi- the history of Rolls- Royce, and and in July ordered six Airbus jets father’s textiles business. But he have been in too much turmoil. more easily than it could have cle, recorded growth of 300 per- has taken automotive enthusiasts worth a total of $576m, according studied communications technol- But it does appear to have hap- during normal economic times. cent across its whole model range. by storm in Qatar. to their list prices. ogy in France and founded his pened in the case of Syphax. REUTERS Combining state-of-the-art THE PENINSULA MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 18 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Egypt seeks to Libya says US firm to stay, eyes Algeria gas deal TRIPOLI: US firm Marathon Corp (NOC) was likely to offer Both sides were also discussing Sirte Oil Co was producing Oil will continue operating in Marathon below market value for working together on gas produc- between 60,000 barrels a day and Libya after giving up plans to sell the stake. tion in the Brega area, a coastal 80,000 bpd at Brega, dismissing its stake in Waha Oil Company, “They are staying here,” Arusi zone where Libya’s state industry reports of production cuts due to lure investors Oil Minister Abdelbari Arusi told reporters. “They told us they is producing gas. power cuts as “talk.” said on Saturday. will continue with us.” Shabane confirmed the two Trading and local Libyan Two years of turmoil after the Marathon was not immediately countries want to boost oil and sources told Reuters on Thursday overthrow of leader Muammar available for comment. other economic cooperation. Libya did not plan to export crude from region Gaddafi, as well as tough con- Arusi also told reporters that “We are exploring possibilities in oil from Brega port in November, tract terms, have prompted oil Libya was considering buying gas terms of... increasing our capacity the only oil terminal still func- companies to reassess their role from neighbouring Algeria as it to trade,” he said, without giving tioning in the east, after a fall in in the North African country, but faces power cuts during peak details. production. Conference to be held in December the government has been keen to demand, and said South Africa Arushi also said Brazil’s A mix of striking workers, mili- keep them. wanted to buy oil from Libya. Petrobas had written a letter to tias and political activists have CAIRO: Egypt is planning a scaring off tourists and investors. Sources said this week that “We discussed that (South the oil ministry expressing its blocked several of Libya’s major oil charm offensive to persuade Other potential obstacles to Marathon was blocked from sell- Africa) will buy some oil from interest to continue their opera- terminals for about three months, Gulf Arab entrepreneurs to investment include cumbersome ing its stake in Waha by the gov- Libya based on world market tions in Libya. The company, in resulting in billions of dollars of invest in its economy, battered and shifting regulations, fears the ernment which has first refusal prices,” Arushi said after meeting Libya since 2005, operates an lost revenues for the government by political upheaval, protests Egyptian pound may be devalued on such a deal. A source said Ohm Collins Shabane, minister exploratory offshore block. and foreign oil companies operat- and violence. and protracted lawsuits against the state-owned National Oil in the South African presidency. Arusi also said state-owned ing there. REUTERS Investment Minister Osama local and foreign companies. Saleh said Cairo would host a con- The economy is in a “very ference in early December, and challenging period ... How do we had already contacted thousands start again to achieve high growth Malabar opens 103rd showroom of businessmen, to try to sell the rates and at the same time work Jordan’s Arab region’s most populous nation to hard to reduce the budget defi- wealthy Arabs. cit?,” Saleh said on Wednesday. Bank 9 month net Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the The Mubarak-era bureaucrat UAE promised Egypt more than who served in the same post profit up 15.4pc $12bn in loans, grants and petro- under Mursi, also acknowledged leum product shipments after instability posed a challenge. AMMAN: Jordanian lender Islamist President Mohammed “There is a problem that I can’t Arab Bank Group’s nine-month Mursi was deposed by the army resolve and that takes time. It is net profit rose 15.4 percent to on July 3. the problem of security. It comes $559m, helped by growth in net Now Egypt is hoping private above all the problems,” he added. interest income and operat- investors from the Gulf will pour Militant attacks on security ing income accompanied by a in money as well, Saleh said, forces in the Sinai Peninsula that decrease in provisions compared despite ongoing unrest. borders Israel have also risen to last year. “All of the Gulf in general sharply since Mursi’s ouster. One of the Middle East’s major is standing by Egypt ... We are Fears are growing that an financial institutions said yester- already discussing the projects Islamist insurgency will take hold day that total loans rose 6 per- they will bring,” Saleh said. beyond the Sinai. In September, cent to $23.2bn at end-September, He said his ministry had set a Sinai-based group claimed while deposits grew 2 percent up country-specific desk officers responsibility for a failed suicide to $33bn compared to the same to deal with interested investors. bombing attack on the interior period last year. Delegations from Saudi Arabia, minister. The bank gave no figures for the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Egypt’s interim government third quarter net profits. possibly Oman would attend the has said it is working to get the Chairman Sabih Masri was conference he added. Ministry economy back on track. quoted in a brief statement as officials face a tough sell. Gulf The cabinet approved a saying the bank’s results showed Arab tourists who once spent big EP22.3bn stimulus package in it was on track to continue a posi- money at hotels are now rarely August, mainly for infrastructure tive performance for the rest of seen in Cairo. projects, and plans another pack- 2013 despite “regional turmoil The government has launched age for early next year. and fluctuations in some major a fierce crackdown on Mursi’s But it is avoiding politically currencies.” Muslim Brotherhood, killing hun- sensitive measures needed to Bank CEO Nemeh Sabbagh said dreds of people during protests. get control of the budget deficit, the bank had comfortable liquidity, Mursi and other top Brotherhood which has jumped since the begin- a major bank goal, with a loan-to- leaders have been arrested. ning of the year to nearly half of deposit ratio of 63.8 percent and a Cairo has run through more all government spending. capital adequacy ratio of 14.67 per- than $20bn in reserves and Many of Egypt’s 85 million cent, well above the minimum set delayed payments to oil compa- citizens are highly dependent on by Jordan’s monetary authorities. nies since an uprising toppled costly food and energy subsidies, Internationally acclaimed Bengali film personality Padma Shri Aparna Sen opening the 103rd showroom of Arab Bank owns 40 percent Mursi’s predecessor, veteran which account for a quarter of all Malabar Gold & Diamond in Kolkata, India, on Saturday. The 3,000 sq ft showroom is the jewellery retailer’s of Saudi Arabia’s Arab National autocrat Hosni Mubarak, in 2011, state spending. REUTERS first showroom in Kolkata. As an inaugural special offer, customers will get gold coins for the purchase of Bank ANB. REUTERS every four grammes of gold jewellery or diamond jewellery worth Rs10,000. Egypt to issue wheat tender in 2-4 weeks Zain to expand into North Africa CAIRO: Egypt, the world’s big- quality and price competitiveness total. The minister said the goal gest wheat importer, will issue of the offer. was to amass six months worth KUWAIT: Mobile telecommu- an international tender within Egypt needs huge quantities of stocks. nications group Zain wants to the next two to four weeks to of wheat to make flour for its “We will contract within the expand in North Africa by tak- ensure its wheat supplies last bread subsidy programme, which next two to four weeks to raise ing controlling stakes in com- until end-March, the supplies supplies saucer-sized flat loaves stocks till end-March,” Abu Shadi panies or winning management minister said. of bread for less than 1 US cent said. The agency will monitor contracts in the region, the “(Current wheat stocks) are to millions of citizens. The pro- prices on international markets to Kuwaiti group’s chief executive enough to last till February 18,” gramme costs EP21bn ($3bn) help determine timing, he added. said. Supplies Minister Mohamed Abu annually, Abu Shadi said. Since the start of the 2013-2014 Expanding abroad would Shadi told Reuters in an inter- The government and pri- fiscal year on July 1, GASC has appear to mark a reversal of view late on Saturday. “We will vate Egyptian buyers purchase bought 2.205 million tonnes of Zain’s strategy after it sold most increase the stocks to last till around 10 million tonnes of wheat from Romania, Ukraine of its Africa assets to India’s end-March.” wheat a year from abroad. The and Russia. Bharti Airtel for $9bn in 2010, He also said Bulgaria had main state wheat buyer, the Egypt is now targeting imports and attempted unsuccessfully to expressed interest in supplying General Authority for Supply of 5 million to 5.5 million tonnes offload its stake in Saudi affiliate wheat to the Arab country and Commodities (GASC) accounts for the remainder of the year to Zain Saudi in 2011. that Egypt was studying the for 5 to 5.5 million tonnes of the June 30, 2014. REUTERS It would also be a vote of con- fidence in the investment envi- ronment of North Africa, which has been damaged by political Africa’s biggest wind farm and economic instability since Zain Group Chief Executive Scott Gegenheimer during the interview. the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011. Zain, which operates in eight mostly Middle Eastern countries in a deal that could be worth some Gegenheimer believes most con- that include Iraq, has a 15.5 per- ¤3.9bn ($5.4bn). solidation in the sector will come cent stake in Moroccan mobile Gegenheimer, who became from telecommunications groups operator inwi but otherwise is not Zain’s chief executive last acquiring adjacent businesses present in North Africa. December, said his company could such as Internet service provid- The Kuwaiti firm would like to also consider entering Egypt ers and data centres. increase its holding in inwi and because of its population size, “The regulators are looking for also seek management control although he noted competition more competition, not less com- of other operators in Arabic- was fierce among the country’s petition. I think you will see more speaking North Africa as oppor- mobile operators. vertical integration than horizon- tunities arise, Scott Gegenheimer Zain is watching Libya, where tal,” he said, adding that this also said. a tender to manage the monopoly applied to Zain. He described the region as a telecommunications operator was He also expects more collabora- good fit for Zain’s existing port- put on hold in March. The gov- tion among mobile phone opera- folio in terms of branding and ernment has also said it wants to tors in areas such as site- and operational synergies. award Libya’s first private mobile network-sharing — for example, “North Africa looks very phone licence next year. joint use of communications tow- interesting and there are always “We think (Libya) is an ers — to reduce costs and limit opportunities coming up. We are untapped market that would environmental damage. looking across the board, whether fit our portfolio fairly well,” “We are looking at a few of our it is Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco — Gegenheimer said. “We see it as markets for site-sharing. I think increasing our stake there would an opportunity. We have to make you will see over the next 12-18 be interesting for us.” sure that we minimise the risk... months some site-sharing deals Dubai Holding’s telecommuni- We wouldn’t blindly go into any in some of the markets that we cations unit expects to conclude operation,” he added. “We would are operating in,” he said without a deal to sell its 35 percent stake be interested in pretty much any- giving details. in Tunisia’s state-owned Tunisie where in North Africa.” Mobile phone operators will Telecom within the next few Zain made a net profit of also need to look at partnership months, its chief executive said KD113m ($401m) in the first half deals with so-called “over-the- A boy stands in front of wind turbines at the Ashegoda Wind Farm, near a village in Mekelle, Tigray, 780km last week. of this year, on consolidated rev- top” (OTT) service providers north of Addis Ababa. Africa’s biggest wind farm began production in Ethiopia on Saturday, aiding efforts Meanwhile, UAE telecommuni- enues of KD612m. It says it has a such as Skype, which offer tel- to diversify electricity generation from hydropower plants and help the country become a major regional cations giant Etisalat is in talks customer base of 44.4m. ecommunications services over exporter of energy. to buy Vivendi’s 53 percent stake While the company wants to the Internet cheaply or for free. in Moroccan firm Maroc Telecom, buy into other mobile operators, REUTERS MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 19 Dubai opens second airport after delay Only three airlines to operate from facility for now

DUBAI: Dubai officially 160m passengers each year in the passengers, but we have incre- launched passenger serv- next decade. mental plans to increase that ices at its new Al Maktoum Al Maktoum’s passenger termi- capacity.” International airport yester- nal was initially slated to launch Dubai has also expanded its day after a delay of nearly four in 2009, but it was pushed back existing airport to include a new years, with three airlines agree- after Dubai’s debt crisis. Cargo terminal dedicated strictly to the ing to operate from the facility operations started there in June Airbus A380 superjumbos, which for now. 2010. makes a shift out of the facility The airport, Dubai’s second, Jazeera Airways, another low- impractical. officially received its first com- cost carrier, will follow suit on Backed by state-sponsored mercial flight by budget carrier Thursday with daily flights to mega airports and aggressively Wizz Air, which brought passen- and from Kuwait, while Bahrain’s growing airlines, Gulf cities such gers from Budapest. national carrier, Gulf Air, will as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha Since 2011, tourists have flocked begin operations on December 8. have gradually been taking over to Dubai, a regional safe haven, No other airlines have as global hubs from traditional at a time of political unrest else- announced intentions to use the hubs in Europe. where in the Middle East, which new airport, which lies some 50km Qatar is building a $15bn air- helped the emirate’s economy south of Dubai International, one port in Doha, which is expected emerge from a crippling debt of the world’s busiest hubs for air to open early next year. crisis. passengers. Abu Dhabi is constructing a Dubai is now reviving stalled The airport can currently new $2.9bn terminal, less than infrastructure and housing handle 7m passengers a year, a hour’s drive from Dubai’s new projects in expectation of a tour- compared with the nearly 60m facility. “I think hubs will con- ism and economic boom. that pass through the old Dubai tinue to develop in the region and “The opening of this facility International airport. replace hubs in Europe,” Griffiths signals the historic beginning Dubai’s flagship carrier said. “I don’t see any problem in of a long-term plan to build the Emirates and state budget car- having more airport capacity in largest airport in the world to rier flydubai have not shifted to the region.” accommodate tremendous pas- the new airport, Paul Griffiths, The new airport is situated senger growth,” Sheikh Ahmed chief executive of Dubai Airports, in Dubai World Central, an The UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, H H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum tours bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the chair- which operates both, told report- economic zone the government the newly opened Al Maktoum International Airport, the emirate’s second airport in Dubai, yesterday. man of Dubai Airports said in a ers after the opening ceremony. hopes to turn into what it calls statement. “Emirates needs a hub that is an “aerotropolis”. man-made harbours, and a major where expansion work is con- is to close, it isn’t a decision we The plan, if successful, is to capable of allowing it to grow its It is built next to Dubai Jebel containers terminal. tinuing, at least not for the time have to make probably for the expand the new facility in phases business,” he said. “This airport Ali Free Zone and its port, which The new airport is not aimed being, according to Griffiths. next 30, 40 years,” he told report- to eventually accommodate up to right now can only handle 7m is one of the world’s largest at replacing Dubai International, “If DXB (Dubai International) ers. AFP/REUTERS

Iran’s energy SABIC says 2014 outlook improving Bullish trading across subsidies DUBAI: Higher sales helped Saudi Basic Industries Corp Middle East bourses hindering vital (SABIC) post a rise in third- quarter net profit yesterday, in DUBAI: Saudi Arabia’s larg- YESTERDAY’S HIGHLIGHTS line with analyst forecasts, as est listed company Saudi Basic projects: MP the chief executive officer said Industries Corp (SABIC) fell QATAR: The index advanced 0.2 the outlook for next year was from a 18-month high yester- percent to 9,670 points. DUBAI: Cash handouts on improving. day, weighing on the kingdom’s fuel introduced by Iran’s previ- “About the future outlook, I bourse after its quarterly earn- SAUDI ARABIA: The index ous government to offset price think 2014 will be similar to 2013 ings matched estimates, while retreated 0.6 percent to 8,125 hikes are depriving state energy or slightly better,” Mohamed Al most other Middle East mar- points. companies of funds needed to Mady told a news conference yes- kets rose. develop vital projects, a lead- terday after the company’s results Many investors had expected KUWAIT: The index climbed 0.4 ing member of parliament was were posted on the website of the a positive surprise from SABIC percent to 7,990 points. reported as saying. Saudi bourse. after two of its subsidiaries posted In December 2010, Mahmoud Mady said he expected pet- estimate-beating quarterly profits DUBAI: The index climbed 0.5 per- Ahmadinejad’s government rochemicals demand in the US, earlier this month. SABIC’s third cent to 2,924 points. slashed subsidies, which made China and Europe, SABIC’s main quarter profit rose 2.5 percent to Iran’s vehicle fuel prices the sec- markets, to grow next year as the SR6.47bn ($1.73bn). Analysts on ABU DHABI: The index rose 0.2 ond lowest behind Venezuela’s, global economy improved. average forecast its profit would percent to 3,891 points. and transferred some of the rev- The company’s sales in the be SR6.4bn. enue raised back to householders third quarter rose 9 percent to The Chief Executive Officer of Saudi Basic Industries Corp Mohamed Al “We had seen signs of improve- OMAN: The index slipped 0.3 per- as cash. SR48.8bn ($13bn) over the same Mady (SABIC), during a news conference in Riyadh yesterday. ment in petrochemical product cent to 6,651 points. The subsidy cuts were suc- period in 2012, with sales from prices in Q3 2013,” said Sleiman cessful in rationalising fuel use the first nine months of this over the past nine months and Dow Chemical’s net income Aboulhosn, investment analyst BAHRAIN: The index declined 0.4 and reducing waste. But the year unchanged from last year at plans to take on some of the debt rose 20 percent, helped mainly by at ING Investments. “Overall, percent to 1,198 points. cash-back system designed to SR140bn. now held by its subsidiaries, he its plastics, packaging, coatings results were good and we expect soften the blow has evolved into Net profit for SABIC, one of and Mady said. and electronics businesses. improving demand from Asia and EGYPT: The index climbed 0.4 per- broader support for Iranians to the world’s biggest petrochemicals The financial performance SABIC, which employs 40,000 restocking to underpin earnings cent to 6,195 points.. cope with soaring inflation pro- groups and the largest listed com- of SABIC, which makes petro- people around the world, relies growth in Q4 2013.” Shares in voked by tightening western pany in the Gulf, was SR6.47bn in chemicals, metals and fertilisers, heavily on natural gas as a raw SABIC fell 2.4 percent. worth of aid to Egypt. The index sanctions, according to a study the three months to September is closely tied to the world econ- material for its chemical business, Al Tayyar Travel Group tum- closed below the intraday peak by the International Institute for 30, compared to SR6.31bn a year omy because its products are used and is facing increased competi- bled 6.8 percent to its lowest of 6,233 points — its highest level Sustainable Development. ago. Nine analysts had forecast extensively in construction, car tion from the US where a shale close in October. The firm said its since January 2011. Jafar Qaderi, a senior member SABIC would earn, on average, manufacturing and other major gas boom has made new supplies third-quarter net profit rose 6.8 It has rallied 37 percent since of the Iranian parliament’s budg- SR6.4bn for the third quarter. consumer goods. available. percent to SR214.9m, below one June 24’s 12-month low, with etary committee, was quoted as SABIC plans a new Eurobond Other large chemical mak- Last month, SABIC printed a analyst’s forecast. Saudi Arabia’s shares rebounding following saying the cash handouts were issue later this year, as the com- ers have seen their profits grow $1bn five-year bond, its first since index slipped 0.6 percent, easing the army’s ousting of former draining resources from the pany seeks to take advantage of sharply in the third quarter. 2010, attracting commitments from Thursday’s two-month high. President Mohamed Mursi, National Iranian Gas Company low interest rates to refinance Germany’s BASF posted better- from investors worth $5.25bn. In Dubai, Emaar Properties whom many blamed for mis- (NIGC) and National Iranian its total debts of around SR80bn, than-expected quarterly profit SABIC shares dipped 2.4 per- rose 1.8 percent, hitting a five- managing the country during Oil Refining and Distribution chief financial officer Mutlaq Al after carmakers’ demand for cent yesterday on the profit year intraday high after its quar- his one-year rule. Heavyweight Company (NIORDC), preventing Morished said. catalytic converters and high- statement. They have gained 17 terly profit rose 50 percent to Commercial International Bank them from building much-needed The company has reduced its tech plastics helped offset weak percent year-to-date. comfortably beat estimates. rose 1.5 percent and Upper Egypt infrastructure. “As long as the total debts by around SR15bn overseas currencies. REUTERS Emaar’s earnings added weight Construction rose 4.4 percent. net costs are not paid to holding to signs of recovery in the emir- The army-backed govern- companies, they will not be able ate’s property and tourism ment has announced spending to implement their development sectors. plans worth EP29.6bn ($4.3bn) projects,” Qaderi was quoted as “It’s very positive signal that to rejuvenate the economy, and saying by oil ministry news serv- the growth is there and it’s mas- while some analysts have doubted ice Shana on Saturday. Egyptian Steel eyes leap in capacity sive,” said Sebastien Henin, port- Egypt’s ability to fund the stimu- Even after the sharp hike in folio manager at The National lus package and cut its budget prices, Iranian motorists still CAIRO: Egyptian Steel is between Egyptian and Qatari Investor. “Institutional investors deficit, the UAE aid — most but paid an average of just $0.33 a preparing for an initial public interests that brought together who were doubtful about Dubai’s not all of which was previously litre ($1.25 per gallon) in 2012, offer of its shares in 2015 and three existing firms. property and tourism recovery announced - could help plug some compared with a global average of is on track to boost its produc- Egyptian Steel now has capi- will come back in the game - it of the gaps. $1.41 per litre, according to World tion capacity several-fold by tal of about EP2bn ($290m), said will take a few days or weeks for Bullish global markets sup- Bank data. The low price of fuel, then, chairman Ahmed Abou Abou Hashima, who started his them to allocate funds to Emaar.” ported regional sentiment. World combined with the scarcity of Hashima said. career as a steel trader in the Dubai’s index rose 0.5 percent equity indexes were near five-year funding due to the cash handouts, The company’s ambitions 1990s. to a five-year peak. Abu Dhabi’s highs on Friday as major US tech- means that fuel retailer NIORDC underline an important truth for The economic slump and disar- benchmark added 0.2 percent. nology companies propelled Wall cannot cover its distribution costs Egypt’s economy: although many ray in the government since 2011 In Cairo, the benchmark index Street to another day of gains, and has resorted to selling bonds businesses have cut investment have hurt demand for cement and climbed 0.4 percent after the UAE sending the S&P 500 index to to raise funding, Shana reported. during the political turmoil of the Chairman of Egyptian Steel Ahmed steel used in building infrastruc- signed an agreement for $4.9bn close at a record. REUTERS “We have to move towards past two years, they are ready ture and luxury housing. Abou Hashima, during an interview making the companies self-suffi- to revive it quickly if stability Steel mills and other energy- in his office in Cairo. cient to finance their development returns. intensive industries have faced projects,” he said. The economic slump since power cuts or been forced to buy Iranian Oil Minister Bijan President Hosni Mubarak was environment may become stable electricity from private suppliers Zanganeh said in early October overthrown in February 2011 enough for companies such as at high prices. Renaissance unit prices debut bond the government was preparing has created a massive deficit of Egyptian Steel to pour billions of But the failure of post-Mubarak DUBAI: Topaz Marine, a unit of Oman’s Renaissance Services, another increase in fuel prices to investment in the country of 85 dollars into the economy. administrations to enforce build- priced its $350m debut bond, a statement from the parent firm said lighten the burden of subsidies million people, in areas ranging “The market in Egypt is very ing regulations triggered a boom on Sunday, in a rare high-yield transaction from the Gulf Arab on an economy severely damaged from heavy industry to services promising and I believe in this in construction of low-cost hous- region. by Western sanctions. Iran has and basic infrastructure such as market,” Abou Hashima, 38, said. ing, which has buoyed steel firms. The five-year offering carried a coupon of 8.625 percent, the bourse delayed a second wave of reforms roads and power generation. He cited Egypt’s large popula- Ezz Steel, Egypt’s biggest steel filing from Renaissance said, adding that the issue was oversubscribed planned for mid-2012, partly out If Egypt’s army-backed govern- tion and unsatisfied consumer maker, said last week that its by investors. It did not elaborate. of concern that it could prove too ment succeeds in its plans to draft demand. group net profit jumped 76 per- The final interest rate was tighter than the initial guidance given painful, given that living stand- a new constitution and hold par- Egyptian Steel was established cent from a year earlier in the on Thursday of between 8.75 and 9 percent. High-yield bond offerings ards have already fallen because liamentary and presidential elec- in 2010, a year before Mubarak’s second quarter of this year. from the Gulf are rare because local corporates can access bank finance of the sanctions. REUTERS tions early next year, the political overthrow, as a joint venture REUTERS at a much cheaper rate. REUTERS MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 20 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Britain backs Finland’s stellar credit rating at risk off ordering Economists doubt if country is as strong as it used to be; Fitch warns of downgrade RBS break-up

HELSINKI: Finland’s image Strict fiscal management has Kangasharju, the chief economist growth for more than a decade. workforce shrinks. Population LONDON: The British govern- as an island of fiscal virtue in allowed Finland to remain the at Nordea Bank Finland, saying Finland’s exports were virtually ageing is among the fastest in ment is likely to stop short of an ocean of European profligacy only country in the eurozone with that in his view Finland no longer stagnant last year from the year Europe. Finland is gradually ordering the break-up of the has eroded to the point that a “triple A” rating and a stable deserves the highest rating. before. But wages still rose 3.5 sinking deeper into debt. In state-rescued Royal Bank of many ask if it can keep its stel- outlook from all three major “The country’s industrial base percent in nominal terms, drain- September the government said Scotland (RBS) before return- lar credit rating. credit rating agencies Standard has collapsed in a way never ing competitiveness. the country would cross the EU ing it to the private sector, Fitch confirmed Finland’s top and Poor’s, Moody’s and Fitch. seen before, and the tradition of “There is no area that could be threshold of 60 percent in 2014, media reports said yesterday. “AAA” rating on Thursday, but Even Luxembourg and political consensus is in tatters,” an engine of growth,” said Fitch while as late as 2011 the public Finance minister George warned that it could be lowered Germany, the eurozone’s other he said. Two pillars of the mod- analyst Enam Ahmed. debt was only 49 percent of GDP. Osborne is due to receive a final in future, in case for example two paragons of fiscal virtue, can ern Finnish economy, the forest He justified the “AAA” rating Helsinki tried to respond with report from Treasury officials of a “failure to tackle the trend no longer boast that. industry and electronics, are in with a reference to its finances, a government plan in August to this week recommending against decline in potential growth”. Finland lost its top rating in serious difficulties. which he described as “robust,” put more Finns to work. the most radical option mooted The Nordic eurozone mem- the 1990s but regained it in 2002. A drop in the demand for saying they “give Finland a cer- The retirement age was to go for the bank, the Sunday Times ber has long prided itself on the Since then, the ratings agencies paper, caused by a growing con- tain margin to absorb unexpected up, time spent at university was said. extremely strict fiscal manage- have regularly praised the coun- version away from traditional shocks.” The credit ratings sec- to go down, and incentives to Instead, RBS would be forced ment that has allowed it to avoid try for its well-functioning politi- print media towards electronic tor’s optimism may not last if the enter the job market were to be to commit to getting rid of tens ever breaking EU fiscal rules. cal system, based on a tradition media, has forced many factories economy continues to sink. boosted for the unemployed and of billions of pounds of problem The budget deficit has consist- of political consensus and moder- to close down. Gross domestic product is young mothers. loans more quickly, before the ently remained below three per- ate spending. But the economists Meanwhile, the dramatic expected to contract in 2013 In its statement Thursday, government begins selling off cent of gross domestic product, have their doubts if Finland is decline of Nokia from the position for the second consecutive year, Fitch said a failure to address part of its 81-percent stake start- while public debt has been held really as strong as it used to be. of global leader in mobile phones after dropping 0.8 percent in obstacles to future growth could ing late next year. within 60 percent, as required by “The rating agencies have been has broken the momentum in 2012. Unemployment is at a rela- contribute to a future downgrade. Sky News also reported that the Maastricht Treaty. lagging behind,” warned Aki a sector that had been driving tively high level, especially as the AFP Osborne will finalise his plans for the future of RBS this week, fol- lowing recommendations made by investment bank Rothschild which focus on “internal surgery” rather than a wholesale break-up of the group. Romanian farmers Both reports said that RBS would likely cut back even fur- ther its investment banking oper- ations, which could see significant choose subsistence job losses. RBS is due to release its third quarter results on Friday. AFP over shale gas McDonald’s drops PUNGESTI, Romania: The western Europe have shunned small hilly town of Pungesti in shale gas exploration because of Heinz Ketchup eastern Romania could be sit- fears about possible water pollu- ting on vast reser ves of shale gas tion and seismic activity from the WASHINGTON: McDonald’s and US energy major Chevron hydraulic fracturing or “fracking” has said it was dropping ketchup wants to find it. process used to release it. king Heinz as a supplier of the But the people of Pungesti want The industry says the risks can key hamburger condiment, cit- nothing to do with it. be avoided. ing management changes at Though most of them live off While Britain decided this year Heinz that put the company subsistence farming, social aid to support shale gas exploration, closer to rival Burger King. and cash from relatives working France has a total ban citing eco- McDonald’s said it was ending a abroad, they would rather stay logical concerns and Germany is relationship of over 40 years as it poor than run what they say is the reviewing its position on shale. axed Heinz from its supplier list. risk of ruining their environment. In poorer, ex-Communist parts “As a result of recent manage- Villagers have set up camp out- of the continent the need to bring ment changes at Heinz, we have side the empty lot where Chevron in tax revenues, cheaper fuel sup- decided to transition our business aims to install its first exploratory plies and jobs has shown signs of to other suppliers over time,” it well, blocking access and forcing trumping the concerns, but to Men celebrate over a destroyed makeshift well during a protest against plans by US energy major Chevron to said. In February US investment the company to announce last what extent is not yet clear. search for shale gas in Pungesti, 340km northeast of Bucharest. star Warren Buffett’s Berkshire week it was suspending work. Chevron, which has all the nec- Hathaway together with Brazil’s “Our kitchens are filled with essary permits for the exploration 3G Capital took over Heinz in a homemade jams and preserves, well at Pungesti, says it adheres while at the same time giving than 60 years”. But it is struggling Even in this remote town, 340km $28bn deal. That move brought sacks of nuts, crates of honey and to the highest safety standards. communities the chance to have to convince the people of Pungesti. northeast of the Romanian capi- Heinz closer to Burger King, cheese, all produced by us,” said The exploration phase would a conversation grounded in sci- Three public meetings held tal Bucharest, the global debate which is controlled by 3G. Doina Dediu, 47, a local and one last around five years and not entific data,” Chevron said in a over the summer with Chevron about the impact of “fracking” has The change would not be a of the protesters. involve fracking, the process statement. and environment agency officials permeated. large blow to Heinz. McDonald’s “We are not even that poor,” whereby large amounts of water Asked to comment on local turned into shouting matches. Several people said they said it only used Heinz ketchup she said. “Maybe we don’t have mixed with chemicals is forced concerns, the company said it Deputy mayor Vasile Voina says had gone on YouTube to watch in two US markets, Minneapolis money, but we have clean water into rock formations under high tests groundwater before and he believes people “were not suf- excerpts of the 2010 US docu- and Pittsburgh, as well as some and we are healthy and we just pressure to crack them apart and after drilling to make sure it is ficiently informed”. mentary “Gasland,” which pur- foreign markets. McDonald’s said want to be left alone.” release natural gas. not affected, carries out geologi- Sprawled along a bumpy road, ported to show the environmental in a statement that it would work The decision to stop work at Company executives met cal seismic surveys and keeps the the town of 3,420 people is made of damage caused by shale gas with Heinz “to ensure a smooth Pungesti — which was to have Romanian Prime Minister Victor community informed at every eight villages with narrow houses production. and orderly transition of the been Romania’s first shale gas Ponta on Monday while he was stage. behind short, chipped picket The energy industry disputes McDonald’s restaurant business.” exploration well — matters making a scheduled visit to In a detailed statement, it fences, fat orange pumpkins dot- allegations made in the film, but The company said they “are because of the message it may Washington. pointed to the widespread use of ting small plots of land and apples it, and other sources, including confident that there will be no send about how welcome shale “Emphasis was placed on con- fracking in the US and elsewhere drying in the sun behind window activists and local clergy, have impact to our business, our cus- gas is in eastern Europe. tinuing activities responsibly and said it “is a proven technology panes. It does not have central influenced opinion in Pungesti. tomers and our great tasting food Large parts of wealthier and safely for the environment, that has been used safely for more heating or a mains water supply. REUTERS at McDonald’s.” AFP

NYSE runs Twitter IPO test to avoid FB chaos Small Japanese firms become

NEW YORK: The New York Commission — the largest fine gold mines to foreign investors Stock Exchange on Saturday ever for an exchange — and said did a test run of Twitter’s highly it would voluntarily pay up to TOKYO: A resurgent Japanese to the hundreds of other firms anticipated market debut, as it $62m to compensate firms that stock market has seen a big that populate the Tokyo Stock seeks to avoid the types of prob- had been harmed. On Friday, boom in shares of the country’s Exchange (TSE), one of the lems that plagued Facebook’s Nasdaq said $41.6m of claims put corporate titans, but now rich world’s biggest equity markets. initial public offering on rival forward qualified for the compen- returns are waiting in small “At first, monetary easing Nasdaq. sation plan. firms virtually unknown over- helped boost prices of the big- The Big Board, run by NYSE The chaotic debut also contrib- seas, according to analysts. gest capitalisation shares... which Euronext, regularly does systems uted to a decline in Facebook’s The likes of Sony and Toyota made small-and mid-cap stocks testing on the weekends, but this stock. The stock hit a low of $17.55 have seen huge gains since the relatively undervalued,” said Shun was the first time it had run a in August, though it has since start of the year as waves of Maruyama, chief Japan equity simulated IPO, and it did so at more than recovered the losses, overseas cash flooded into the strategist with BNP Paribas the request of its member firms closing on Friday at $51.95, well long-lacklustre Tokyo market, Securities in Tokyo. — many of whom took part in above its IPO price. nearly doubling the electronics “Foreign investors see these Facebook’s 2012 IPO on Nasdaq While Nasdaq had tested its giant’s stock while the world’s smaller firms as a gold mine.” OMX Group’s main exchange. systems in the lead-up to the IPO, largest automaker jumped about In fact, some have already made The NYSE was testing mainly allowing member firms to place 55 percent. it onto investors’ radar screens. for two things: To see if its sys- dummy orders to a test symbol The Nikkei 225 stock average Discount retailer Don Quijote’s tems could handle the amount over a specific period, it limited — a who’s who of corporate Japan shares have doubled since January, of message traffic that might Dick Costolo, chief executive of Twitter, arrives at JP Morgan headquarters the total number of orders that — has surged 36 percent since SymBio Pharmaceuticals logged be generated by the IPO; and before the firm’s IPO in New York. could be received in the simula- January, staging a sharp recovery a 67 percent rally while Pickles to make sure that once the IPO tion to 40,000. On the day of the as Tokyo’s policy blitz of govern- Corp., Japan’s biggest pickle took place any firms that placed IPO, over 496,000 orders were ment spending and monetary eas- maker, has soared about 85 per- orders would promptly receive the Twitter, which intends to sell exposure for hours, and in some placed before the IPO opened, ing helped set off a sharp decline cent since the start of the year. reports telling them that their 70m shares at between $17 and cases for days afterwards. Major with around 82m shares traded. in the yen. The weak yen makes export- orders had been executed. $20 each, will be holding the big- market makers estimated they By the end of the day, more than That has boosted profitability ers more competitive overseas It can also be seen as part of gest Internet IPO since Facebook, lost collectively up to $500m in 500m shares had traded hands, a among Japanese exporters and and inflates repatriated foreign NYSE’s struggle with Nasdaq for which sold a much larger 421m the IPO. record for an IPO. investors are hoping for more as profits, but they are at the mercy supremacy in technology listings. shares at $38 each. Twitter is The absence of Nasdaq CEO NYSE’s tests on Saturday ran earnings season gets under way of the ups and downs of currency Both exchanges vied to be home to expected to start trading as early Robert Greifeld while the melt- hundreds of thousands of orders, this week. markets — smaller firms that Twitter’s stock, and many analysts as November 7. down was occurring magnified with one single firm placing an But the multi-month surge on concentrate on the domestic said the trading disruptions that In the case of Facebook, the the criticism toward the exchange order at one point for nearly 81m the Nikkei since late last year has market are often less affected by occurred on Facebook’s Nasdaq tremendous volume of orders on — he had been celebrating the shares. stoked fears about overheating those fluctuations. And they are debut likely played to NYSE’s the first day of trading exposed debut at Facebook’s California “This morning’s systems test even as the index came off highs set to benefit most from Japanese favor, as it tries to become the a glitch in Nasdaq’s system, ulti- headquarters before jumping on was successful, and we’re grate- that saw it up about 80 percent Premier Shinzo Abe’s bid to destination of choice for technol- mately preventing timely order a plane back to New York. ful to all the firms that chose to at one stage. reboot the economy by firing up ogy listings, something Nasdaq confirmations for many traders, Nasdaq was fined $10m by participate,” an NYSE spokesman Now, some are looking beyond consumer demand at home, ana- once dominated. leaving them unsure about their the US Securities and Exchange said. REUTERS members of the blue-chip index lysts said. AFP

MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 22 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MARKET

QE Indices Summary QE Index 9,669.69 0.18 % WORLD STOCK INDICES GOLD & SILVER EXCHANGE QE Total Return Index 13,815.77 0.18 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 2,783.59 0.08 % RATE QE All Share Index 2,428.81 0.24 % INDEX Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low QE All Share Banks & Financial 2,303.82 0.30 % GOLD Buying Selling Services All Ordinaries 5373.667 16.848 0.31 5400.4 4610.6 QE All Share Consumer Goods & 5,891.62 0.42 % QR157.7023 US$ ...... QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 Services Cac 40 Index/D 4268.88 8.22 0.19 4309.15 3575.17 QE All Share Industrials 3,131.78 0.27 % SILVER UK ...... QR 5.8519 QR 5.9375 QE All Share Insurance 2,305.51 0.83 % Dj Indu Average 15478.25 64.92 0.42 15709.6 12471.5 Euro ...... QR 4.9817 QR 5.0825 QE All Share Real Estate 1,807.88 0.13 % QR 2.6759 CA$ ...... QR 3.4506 QR 3.5240 QE All Share Telecoms 1,437.12 0.56 % Egypt Cma Gn Idx 1026.29 32.57 3.28 999.95 312.38 QE All Share Transportation 1,803.64 0.06 % Swiss Fr ...... QR 4.0385 QR 4.1305 Hang Seng Inde/D 22835.82 -164.13 -0.71 23944.74 19426.36 Yen ...... QR 0.0371 QR 0.0378 QE Market Summary Comparison Aus$ ...... QR 3.4497 QR 3.5372 Today Previous day Iseq Overall/D 4359.35 -10.76 -0.25 4414.37 3396.67 CRUDE OIL 27-10-2013 24-10-2013 Ind Re ...... QR 0.0584 QR 0.0597 Index 9,669.69 9,652.35 Karachi 100 In/D 22360.85 13.56 0.06 23944.99 16036.31 Pak Re ...... QR 0.0339 QR 0.0346 Change 17.34 41.58 BRENT Nikkei 225 Index 14486.41 60.36 0.42 15942.6 10398.61 Peso ...... QR 0.0831 QR 0.0857 % 0.18 0.43 $ 107.97 SL Re ...... QR 0.0276 QR 0.0282 YTD% 15.68 15.47 S&P 500 Index/D 0 0 0 1759.33 1343.35 Taka ...... QR 0.0464 QR 0.0474 Volume 4,006,523 4,227,500 DUBAI Nep Re ...... QR 0.0368 QR 0.0378 Value (QAR) 155,665,065.60 253,769,172.60 Straits Times/D 3217.95 13.15 0.41 3464.79 2990.68 SA Rand ...... QR 0.3698 QR 0.3772 Trades 1,831 2,765 Straits Times/D 2971.47 22.7 0.77 3035.78 2657.77 $ 106.31 Up 19 | Down 14 | Unchanged 04

QATAR EXCHANGE | DAILY TRADING REPORT | 27-10-2013

Algeria economic reforms on hold until 2014 election

ALGIERS: Algeria is unlikely industries — were so politically Management, a private business pharmaceuticals. But such poli- to see substantial economic sensitive that they would have to school, in Algiers. cies will depend on the results of reform before the country wait. “Our average economic growth next year’s elections as well as holds elections in April 2014, a “No government can afford to is around 3 to 4 percent, not the way in which political forces top advisor to the government make strategic decisions today. enough for a take-off.” arrange themselves in the weeks said, despite growing signs that That is understandable,” he said Measures to make it quicker after the polls. officials are edging towards in an interview at the Reuters and easier for Algerians to estab- Algeria’s 76-year-old President liberalising policy. Middle East Investment Summit. lish companies are vital, said Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who suf- For decades, Algeria has “Nothing will happen on the Lamiri, who in his role as advi- fered a stroke earlier this year, tightly limited competition and economic side before the presi- sor has taken part in talks on the could run for a fourth term in foreign participation in its oil- dential election of 2014, because economy this year between the the elections but it is not clear and gas-rich economy, a legacy we need to establish a long-term government, labour unions and whether he will do so. of the Socialist ideology which it plan and decisions about the the private sector. In any case the ruling FLN adopted after independence from profound re-engineering of the El Bahia Wahran, a major city on the Mediterranean coast of Algeria. “In Algeria we have 600,000 party is expected to continue France in 1962. national economy.” enterprises — not enough, because dominating the country, but a Over the past year, there have With a population of about 39 But while Algeria has money, Also, the country’s civil war we need at least 1.5 million.” younger group of leaders could be been indications that this will million, Algeria is different from it does not have a vibrant private with Islamists in the 1990s had One way to make capital move more willing to experiment with change as the government comes most North African countries sector to help solve problems left many people wary of unrest. around the economy more effi- the economy. under pressure from the popula- in that its energy wealth means such as poverty and unemploy- Nevertheless, small-scale pro- ciently would be to establish In April 2012, Bouteflika said tion to deliver better services and state finances are not under heavy ment; the jobless rate is officially tests and riots, mostly to demand investment banks, which would publicly that his generation’s time living conditions. pressure. This makes Algeria estimated at 10 percent and is better living conditions, are rou- move the banking industry was over, referring to the veteran For example, the housing min- potentially very attractive to a believed to be much higher among tine all over Algeria. beyond its current focus on fund- independence-era leaders who istry has allowed more foreign wide range of foreign companies, young people. This maintains pressure on the ing imports, Lamiri said. ran the country for five decades. firms to bid to build housing. if barriers to doing business can Algeria did not experience the government to find an economic Meanwhile, the government “I think we can go very rapidly But Abdelhak Lamiri, who be removed. kind of uprising which hit other model that would deliver higher could free up more funds for right after the election to intro- serves as an economic consultant The International Monetary Arab countries in 2011. growth. investment, and compensate for duce key reforms to make our for the Algerian government, said Fund estimates the govern- When the Arab Spring began, “Algeria’s economy is struc- declining gas and oil exports, by economy more attractive to for- major reforms — such as whole- ment’s gross debt is just 11 per- the Algerian government eased tured to distribute the money, reducing the country’s import eign investment, and less bureau- sale revisions to investment laws cent of gross domestic product, social discontent by offering pay not to transform it into produc- bill through programmes to cratic than it is now,” Lamiri said. to eliminate red tape and make it a very low level by international rises to millions of state employ- tive investment,” said Lamiri, who boost domestic production “This is feasible in a very short easy for new companies to enter standards. ees and free loans to businessmen. runs the Institut International de in sectors such as wheat and term period.” REUTERS MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 23 League wants teams in LA Rare call gives Cards win and London, World Series: Game swings in Cardinals favour on umpire’s call says Goodell LONDON: National Football St Louis ST LOUIS: The St Louis stumbled over him while trying to obstruction. That’s a tough pill to League (NFL) commissioner Cardinals scored a controversial leave third base and obstruction swallow.” Roger Goodell wants to see Cardinals’ run on an rare obstruction call was ruled, allowing Craig’s run to Umpiring crew chief John league teams established in Carlos Beltran in the bottom of the ninth inning count and the game to go into the Hirschbeck explained the call. both Los Angeles and London, proudly dis- to beat the Boston Red Sox 5-4 Cardinals’ column. “Obstruction is the act of a fielder as long as the process was con- plays the in a wild finish to Game Three While the Red Sox players obstructing a runner when not in ducted in “the right way”, he Roberto of the World Series yesterday. rushed to the umpires to object the act of fielding a ball. It does said yesterday. Clemente The confusing, controversial to the ruling by third base umpire not have to be intent,” he said. Speaking at a forum for Award he ending gave St Louis a 2-1 lead Jim Joyce, the Cardinals cele- Red Sox slugger David Ortiz European NFL fans in London has won at in the best-of-seven Fall Classic. brated a sudden victory with hugs said: “They say it was obstruction, ahead of the game in the English Busch Stadium With men on second and third along the first base line. but when I watched the video, I capital between the Jacksonville in St Louis and one out, and the infield “Wow, it’s unbelievable,” said St. don’t agree.” Jaguars and San Francisco 49ers, yesterday. drawn in, second baseman Dustin Louis catcher Yadier Molina. “We The rare call on Craig’s strange Goodell was asked which city he The Roberto Pedroia made a sprawling stop really need this game. Obviously trip around the bases ended a see- would prefer gain a league fran- Clemente of Jon Jay’s grounder and fired every game is important. This was saw contest that kept a crowd of chise first. Award is home for an out. Catcher Jarrod back and forth.” more than 47,000, white handker- “It doesn’t matter,” Goodell given by Saltalamacchi then threw to Boston left themselves an chief-waving St Louis fans on the replied. “I’d love to be back in Major League third to try and catch Allen Craig uphill climb, as teams winning edge of their seats. Los Angeles. But it has to be done Baseball annu- advancing. Game Three in a 1-1 Series have St Louis battered Red Sox the right way, we have to do it The ball got past third base- gone on to win the World Series starter Jake Peavy for four hits successfully... ally to the man Will Middlebrooks who two-thirds of the time, including and two runs in the first inning, “I want both (cities to have player “who sprawled to his left on his belly 11 of the last 12 occasions. but Boston came back with single teams), but it doesn’t matter best repre- to try and catch the throw. Left- Game Four is on Sunday in the runs in the fifth and sixth to tie which one is first.” sents the game fielder Daniel Nava backed up the Cardinals’ Busch Stadium home. it 2-2. The NFL has not had a team of baseball play and threw home in time for “Tough way to have a game end, The Cardinals scored two runs in Los Angeles, the second larg- through posi- Craig to be tagged out attempting particularly of this significance, in the seventh and the Red Sox est media market in the United tive contribu- to score. when Will is trying to dive inside responded with two in the eighth States, since the Raiders returned tions on and The Red Sox thought they to stop the throw,” Boston man- to tie it again. to Oakland in 1995. off the field, had turned a remarkable double ager John Farrell lamented. But it all came down to the However, the league has been including play to send the game into extra “I don’t know how he gets wild play at the end, when for making a concerted push to grow sportsmanship innings. out of the way when he’s lying a moment it was not certain its international fan base, and and community But the umpires ruled that on the ground. And when Craig whether Boston had pulled off an next year it will be staging three involvement. Middlebrooks had gotten in the trips over him, I guess by the let- incredible double play or St Louis regular-season games in London. way of Craig as the baserunner ter of the rule you could say it’s had ended the thriller. AFP Once the game between the Jaguars and 49ers is over, London will have hosted two games in a single season for the first time. Last month the Minnesota Vikings beat the Pittsburgh NHL: Devils get two late Steelers 34-27 at Wembley Stadium. The NFL first played a regu- lar season game at Wembley in 2007 and the annual fixture has goals to stun Bruins attracted near-sellout crowds with an average attendance of more than 80,000. BOSTON : It took a couple of after a rough start. Torey Krug, There has been talk that there last-minute goals for the New NHL Results Jarome Iginla and Milan Lucic could perhaps be a Super Bowl Jersey Devils to snap their Phoenix 5 Edmonton 4 scored first-period goals for held in London. recent woes against the Boston New Jersey 4 Boston 3 Boston (7-3). However, Goodell said yester- Bruins . Marek Zidlicky and Toronto 4 Pittsburgh 1 Iginla and David Krejci each day that will likely only happen Andy Greene scored power-play San Jose 2 Montreal 0 had two assists as Boston built a if there is a franchise in London goals 23 seconds apart late in the NY Rangers 3 Detroit 2 3-1 lead. because the Super Bowl is played third period, lifting the Devils Tampa Bay 3 Buffalo 2 With the Devils skating with in cities where the NFL has to a 4-3 win over the Bruins on a 6-on-3 advantage after Krug teams based. Philadelphia 5 NY Islanders 2 Saturday night. was given a double minor for Goodell is a huge proponent of The victory snapped a seven- Winnipeg 2 Dallas 1 high sticking Brunner, Patrice playing in London. There will be game losing streak against the Minnesota 5 Chicago 3 Bergeron was whistled for delay two regular-season games played Bruins for the Devils (2-5-4). St Louis 6 Nashville 1 of game and they pulled Brodeur, in London this season and three “I mean, we were due for some Calgary 5 Washington 2 Zidlicky unloaded a shot from the in 2014. The games are wildly good fortune,” Devils coach Peter point that beat Tuukka Rask with popular and have been sellouts. DeBoer said of his team’s start Adam Henrique and Damien 1:08 to play. Braden Holtby (70) of the Washington Capitals stops the shot of David “You are proving you are wor- this season, but he could as well Brunner also had power-play “It’s a huge win,” Devils’ forward Jones (54) of the Calgary Flames during an NHL game at Scotiabank thy of a franchise,” Goodell told have been referring to the recent goals for the struggling Devils. Patrick Elias said. “Obviously we Saddledome in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, yesterday. the European fans. games against Boston. Martin Brodeur stopped 25 shots didn’t start well.” AGENCIES AGENCIES QVA Federation Cup Squash: Qatar’s Tamimi shocks Lobban at World Championship

MANCHESTER, England: PSA World Squash Qatari teenager Abdulla Mohd Championship 1st Round Al Tamimi tore up the form book in Saturday’s qualifying Qualifying Results: round of the PSA World Squash Nasir Iqbal (PAK) bt Alex Ingham (ENG) 11-5, 11-9, Championship to create a major 11-8; Jens Schoor (GER) bt Alejandro Garbi Caro (ESP) 8-11, 11-8, 11-5, 11-9; Joel Hinds (ENG) upset at the National Squash bt Johan Bouquet (FRA) 12-10, 11-5, 5-11, 11-8; Centre in Manchester. Chris Ryder (ENG) bt Matthew Sidaway (ENG) 11-7, Al Tamimi, an 18-year-old 11-6, 11-4; Muhd Asyraf Azan (MAS) bt Bradley from Doha, prevailed in a dra- Smith (ENG) 11-9, 11-4, 11-9; Raphael Kandra matic five-game encounter, beat- Qatari teenager (GER) bt Reiko Peter (SUI) 11-8, 11-3, 11-5; Dane ing Scotland’s World No. 86 Greg Abdulla Mohd Al Sharp (CAN) bt Farhan Mehboob (PAK) 6-11, 11-5, Lobban 4-11, 11-7, 11-6, 9-11, 11-6 Tamimi is seen 11-2, 11-2; Matthew Karwalski (AUS) bt Adam in 51 minutes. in this file picture Auckland (ENG) 11-9, 11-8, 11-9; Steven Finitsis (AUS) bt James Earles (ENG) 11-3, 5-11, 11-9, Action from the Qatar Volleyball Association (QVA) Federation Cup match In another upset, Kuwaiti of 2012. Tamimi Ammar Altamimi, a 25-year- 11-7; Aqeel Rehman (AUT) bt Lyell Fuller (ENG) between Qatar Sports Club and Al Khor at Al Arabi Stadium in Doha, defeated World 8-11, 11-5, 11-5, 11-3; Declan James (ENG) bt old ranked outside the top 100, yesterday. Twelve teams are taking part in the tournament which is a No. 86 Greg Michael Harris (ENG) 11-8, 11-8, 11-8; Mohamed defeated Mexican Alfredo Avila season-opener and is played on a league-cum-knockout format. The Lobban 4-11, 11-7, Abouelghar (EGY) bt Ahmed Atef (EGY) 11-9, 11-2, final will be on October 31. PICTURES BY: ABDUL BASIT - ranked more than 50 places 11-6, 9-11, 11-6 11-2; Charles Sharpes (ENG) bt George Parker (ENG) higher - 11-9, 2-11, 11-9, 8-11, 11-9 in the qualifying 11-8, 11-9, 11-9; Paul Coll (NZL) bt Kevin Moran in 62 minutes. round of the PSA (SCO) 11-6, 11-9, 11-5; Geoffrey Demont (FRA) bt Fares Mohamed Dessouki Julian Tomlinson (ENG) 11-7, 11-7, 11-5;Shaun World Squash became one of the youngest play- le Roux (RSA) bt Carlos Cornes Ribadas (ESP) Championship ers to make it through to the 11-4, 11-8, 12-10; Andrew Wagih Shoukry (EGY) qualifying finals when he fought at the National bt Khawaja Adil Maqbool (PAK) 11-9, 11-4, 11-6; back from 2/1 down to upset Rex Squash Centre in Arthur Gaskin (IRL) bt Robert Downer (ENG) 11-3, Hedrick, the world No. 68 from Manchester on 11-5, 11-8; Peter Creed (WAL) bt Steven London (ENG) 11-6, 11-7, 11-4; Fares Mohamed Dessouki Australia, 11-9, 6-11, 5-11, 11-3, Saturday. (EGY) bt Rex Hedrick (AUS) 11-9, 6-11, 5-11, 11-3, 11-5 in 91 minutes. 11-5; Eddie Charlton (ENG) bt Chris Fuller (ENG) The final match of the day 11-8, 11-7, 5-11, 11-3; Yousif Nizar Saleh (KUW) bt provided another success for the Nathan Lake (ENG) w/o; Yann Perrin (FRA) bt Admire home nation - but huge disap- Magwaza (ZIM) 11-4, 11-4, 11-9; Ammar Altamimi pointment for a Brazilian veteran (KUW) bt Alfredo Avila (MEX) 11-9, 2-11, 11-9, 8-11, who was hoping to celebrate his 11-9; Karim Ali Fathi (EGY) bt Kim Are Killingberg 100th - and final - event on the (NOR) 11-2, 11-5, 11-2; Zahed Mohamed (EGY) PSA World Tour on a high. bt Connor Sheen (ENG) 11-6, 12-10, 11-4; Lucas But despite leading 2/1, Serme (FRA) bt Thomas Ford (ENG) 11-2, 11-7, 11-6; Kristian Frost Olesen (DEN) bt Claudio Pinto 36-year-old Sao Paulo-born (POR) 11-8, 11-2, 11-6; Jaymie Haycocks (ENG) Rafael Alarcon was unable to bt Ashley Davies (ENG) 11-7, 11-5, 11-5; Richie stop England’s 18-year-old Richie Fallows, the world No 168, the qualifying slots in the main draw Fallows (ENG) bt Rafael Alarcon (BRA) 11-6, 10-12, Fallows storming through to an lowest-ranked player through to - with seven from England, from 9-11, 11-9, 11-6; Abdulla Mohd Al Tamimi (QAT) bt 11-6, 10-12, 9-11, 11-9, 11-6 victory the qualifying finals. which two are already guaranteed Greg Lobban (SCO) 4-11, 11-7, 11-6, 9-11, 11-6; in 91 minutes. There will be players from places in the first round. Shahier Razik (CAN) bt Ahmad Al-Saraj (JOR) 9-11, The upset makes Londoner 16 nations fighting for the 16 THE PENINSULA 11-6, 16-14, 11-3; MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 24 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

BMW Masters scores SHANGHAI: Leading scores yesterday after the final round of the European Tour’s $7m Fernandez-Castano BMW Masters at Lake Malaren Golf Club in Shanghai (par 72): 277 Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano (ESP) 71-71-67-68 278 Francesco Molinari (ITA) 72-71-71-64, wins BMW Masters Thongchai Jaidee (THA) 70-70-72-66 279 Luke Guthrie (USA) 65-71-72-71. 280 Thomas Bjorn (DEN) 73-72-69-66, Spaniard survives a late scare in Shanghai Peter Uihlein (USA) 69-75-69-67, Pablo Larrazabal (ESP) 70-73-69-68 SHANGHAI: Spain’s Gonzalo Open in 2006 and the Singapore definitely left a few out there on 281 Peter Hanson 79-68-71-63, Scott Fernandez-Castano won the Open in 2011. the greens, for sure,” admitted the Jamieson 72-68-71-70, Paul Casey BMW Masters by a single shot “I can’t believe it was seven Northern Irishman. (ENG) 70-70-71-70, Rafael Cabrera- from Italy’s Francesco Molinari years ago,” Fernandez-Castano “I’m giving myself plenty of Bello (ESP) 73-68-67-73 and Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee said. “I always love playing in chances for birdies... sooner or 282 Marcus Fraser (AUS) 73-70-70-69 after finishing on 11-under par China. Great country and it’s been later they are going to fall and I’ll yesterday as Rory McIlroy had a great week.” start shooting some lower scores.” 283 Martin Kaymer (GER) 75-71-70-67, another roller-coaster day. This was his first win since the The 23-year-old leader for Gregory Bourdy (FRA) 70-73-67-73 The Spaniard, lying second 2012 BMW Italian Open. three rounds, Luke Guthrie of 284 Brett Rumford (AUS) 73-69-75-67, Ian overnight on seven-under par and McIlroy had stomped away in the United States, trod water on Poulter (ENG) 74-69-72-69 playing in the final group, looked frustration after his third round a calmer day that saw some very to have sealed his victory in spec- on Saturday ended with a double low scoring, finishing fourth at 285 Eduardo De La Riva (ESP) 75-72-70- tacular style by chipping in at the bogey. On Sunday he birdied the nine-under par after a 71. 68, Garth Mulroy (RSA) 74-72-71-68, 17th hole for a birdie to open up a monster par-four 18th to finish Molinari carded a spectacular David Horsey (ENG) 72-72-72-69, three-shot lead at 13-under par. with a 73. eight-under 64, courtesy of five Ricardo Gonzalez (ARG) 73-67-74-71, However a few nerves kicked Before he dashed to the air- birdies and an eagle on the back Soren Kjeldsen (DEN) 76-71-67-71, in on the tough 471-yard 18th as port to fly to the southern island nine, to grab a share of second Bernd Wiesberger (AUT) 75-69-69- he said he “tried to play conserv- of Hainan for a “lot of fun” at a place. 72, Craig Lee (SCO) 70-70-71-74 atively” and found fairway and money-making exhibition match “I had dinner with Gonzo Selected others greenside bunkers on his way to a with Tiger Woods at Mission Hills (Fernandez-Castano) last night. double-bogey six -- the only blem- on Monday, he said could still take I think he was expecting someone 286 Lee Westwood (ENG) 72-71-70-73 ish on a card of four-under-par 68 positives from the European Tour to charge today, but probably not 287 Rory McIlroy (NIR) 71-72-71-73 containing six birdies. event. me,” Molinari joked afterwards. “I was glad I had a three-shot “Definitely it wasn’t the week I Thongchai provided the perfect 289 Luke Donald (ENG) 75-72-71-71 cushion,” he told reporters after was hoping for,” said the 24-year- response after being surprisingly 290 Henrik Stenson (SWE) 72-74-79-65 his round, after pocketing the old former world number one. “I overlooked for the Presidents Cup 294 Graeme McDowell (NIR) 70-74-76-74 $1,166,000 winner’s cheque that feel like my game’s better than last month. He flew the flag for propelled him up to fourth in the what the scores suggest.” Asian golf with a closing 66 to fin- CIMB Classic Race to Dubai European Tour McIlroy drove the ball ish 10-under par.Defending BMW standings. supremely all week, looking to be Masters champion Peter Hanson final-round scores Fernandez-Castano seems back near his best with his long of Sweden, playing his first event KUALA LUMPUR: Leading scores from to have a liking for Asia and game. Around the greens it was since the US PGA championship Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano of Spain celebrates with the trophy after rain-interrupted final round of the $7m Shanghai in particular, having a different story. in August because of a back injury, winning the BMW Shanghai Masters golf tournament at the Lake CIMB Classic PGA tournament at the Kuala won across the city at Tomson “I thought the putter got a little set the early clubhouse lead with Malaren Golf Club in Shanghai, yesterday. Lumpur Golf and Country Club yesterday: Golf Club at the BMW Asian better as the week progressed. I an amazing birdie blitz. AFP 274 Ryan Moore 63-72-69-70 (USA), Gary Woodland (USA) 68-70-67-69 -- (Will Sunrise LPGA Taiwan meet in play-off on Monday) Championship Scores CIMB Classic: Moore, Woodland in play-off 275 Kiradech Aphibarnat (THA) 67-69-69- 70, Chris Stroud (USA) 67-69-68-71 TAOYUAN, Taiwan: Leading fourth- KUALA LUMPUR: Ryan out the tournament on the 18th The winner also gains a two- happy to be in it.” The winner 276 Aaron Baddeley (AUS) 73-67-70-66 round scores in the $2m LPGA Taiwan Moore and Gary Woodland hole after knocking a sand wedge year PGA Tour exemption and a earns $1.26m. The lead changed Championship at the Sunrise Golf and will meet in a play-off for the near the pin but missed his birdie guaranteed place in next year’s hands several times yesterday, 277 Jimmy Walker (USA) 74-68-67-68 Country Club yesterday: CIMB Classic after they battled putt. He was one of several play- US Masters tournament. with Kiradech and Chris Stroud 278 Graham DeLaet (CAN) 72-67-68-71, 279 Suzann Pettersen (NOR) 68-69-73-69 through two rain delays to tie ers befuddled by the rain-soaked World number three Phil of the United States in the mix Charles Howell III (USA) 69-72-69-68, for the lead at the close of play greens. Mickelson, who started the day until the end. They finished tied Harris English (USA) 71-67-71-69 284 Azahara Munoz (ESP) 73-72-69-70 yesterday. “I knew I needed to make (the five strokes behind the leaders for second at 13-under. The per- The sudden-death play-off was putt) to win the title. I played it after inconsistent ball-striking formance by Kiradech, who has 279 Keegan Bradley (USA) 65-66-76-72 286 Caroline Hedwall (SWE) 71-73-72-70 put off until 7.30 a.m. on Monday just outside right and it broke too the first two days, shot a two-over a solid lead on the Asian Tour 280 Billy Horschel 72-69-72-67 (USA), 287 Ji Eun-Hee (KOR) 72-76-69-70 after tournament organisers ran much at the end,” he said. 74 yesterday to finish tied for 19th Order of Merit, underlined his Sergio Garcia (ESP) 66-71-71-72, out of time and daylight due to the “I hit it where I wanted to, and at five-under. Moore, who spent status as a rising star. Stewart Cink (USA) 70-68-69-73 288 Mina Harigae (USA) 74-71-75-68 storm delays at Kuala Lumpur unfortunately it didn’t go in.” the rain delay playing the smart- The bulky 24-year-old, who is Golf and Country Club. Woodland also missed birdie phone game Candy Crush, said he known for his go-for-broke style 281 K.J. Choi (KOR) 68-71-70-72, Bryce 288 Pak Se-Ri (KOR) 76-72-69-71 Yesterday afternoon’s delays putts on the 14th and 17th holes was just happy he and Woodland and long drives, pulled big crowds Molder (USA) 73-69-67-72 ate up more than three hours. that could have locked up the were able to finish the round. after winning the Maybank 288 Irene Cho (USA) 71-74-72-71 282 Shiv Kapur (IND) 69-70-71-72, Bill The two Americans finished victory. The day “was so crazy with the Malaysian Open earlier this year Haas (USA) 72-67-71-72, Jeff Overton 289 Hur Mi-Jung (KOR) 75-71-72-71 atop the leaderboard at 14-under It will be the first playoff in the weather on and off, and I think at the same course. (USA) 73-67-72-70 after the completion of regula- tournament’s four-year history. we’re both pretty happy we just Mickelson, fellow American 289 Beatriz Recari (ESP) 72-71-73-73 tion play, fending off a challenge This year also is the first time got done at this point”, he said. Keegan Bradley, Spain’s Sergio 283 Rickie Fowler 71-72-73-67 (USA), from Asia’s top player Kiradech the CIMB Classic is offering “But obviously to have to come Garcia and South Africa’s Ernie Kevin Stadler 71-69-73-70 (USA), 289 Yoo Sun-Young (KOR) 73-69-72-75 Aphibarnrat of Thailand. FedExCup points, with 500 on back tomorrow for a playoff is Els were among a bumper field for Bo Van Pelt 72-77-69-65 (USA), Phil Woodland had a chance to close offer. not the worst thing ever. I’m just the tournament. AFP Mickelson 71-70-68-74 (USA) Asia-Pacific Amateur Qatar Classic Championships Number of Players Leading scorers (par 71): Amateur Players: 21 Qatar Classic begins today at DGC Professional Players: 79 281 Lee Chang-Woo (KOR) 70-72-69-70 Total Entries: 100 DOHA: Organisers of the 284 Shohei Hasegawa (JPN) 72-70-71-71 Prize Money: $50,000 MENA Golf Tour believe the Venue: Doha Golf Club, October 27 to 30 inaugural Qatar Classic, starting 285 Kenta Konishi (JPN) 76-71-68-70 MENA Tour FactBox today at Doha Golf Club (DGC), 287 Lucas Herbert (AUS) 73-75-71-68; The third edition of the MENA (Middle East will provide a fresh boost to the Lee Soo-Min (KOR) 73-70-74-70; Dou & North Africa) Golf Tour, an initiative by the country’s growing reputation as Zecheng (CHN) 68-75-69-75 Shaikh Maktoum Golf Foundation. a major golf destination. With support from the Arab Golf Federation “This is our first visit to Qatar 288 Oliver Goss (AUS) 72-73-71-72 and R&A, the tour is aimed at the best which we see as another posi- tive development for golf in the 289 Brady Watt (AUS) 71-74-73-71; Pan MENA amateur and professional players, region. I would like to thank Cheng-tsung (TPE) 72-73-73-71; along with eligible players from the around the Doha Golf Club for hosting Kazuya Koura (JPN) 74-69-74-72; the world. the event which, I am sure, will Guan Tianlang (CHN) 74-74-68-73 Aims of the MENA Tour The creation of the MENA Golf Tour opens become a popular and perma- up new windows of opportunity for MENA nent stop on the Tour,” Mohamed professionals and amateurs to develop their Juma Buamaim, Chairman of the South Korean golfing skills, alongside international players MENA Tour, said yesterday. on home soil. “Qatar, as we all know, has made great strides in putting Lee wins With large prize funds and World Amateur together solid infrastructure for Ranking points available, the MENA Golf Masters berth Tour provides a unique platform for success golf and hosting a Tour event at and development. the home to the European Tour’s Mohamed Juma Buamaim (second left), Chairman of the MENA Golf Tour, speaking during a press confer- Commercial Bank Qatar Masters Eligibility ence at Doha Golf Club (DHC) yesterday. The inaugural Qatar Classic, part of the MENA Tour, will begin from BEIJING: South Korea’s Lee underlines the country’s commit- today at DGC. Mohammed Faisal Al Naimi (second right), Executive Director of the Qatar Golf Association Chang-Woo earned a place at The tour is open to all MENA nationals, and ment to broadening the base of international, professionals and amateurs. (QGA), Mike Shoueiry (left), Technical Director of QGA, and Chris Myers, General Manager of DGC, were also the US Masters with a com- golf in the Arab world,” Buamaim present for the press conference. manding Asia-Pacific Amateur Amateur golfers must be of handicap 1 and said. Championships win which below on joining the tour, as well as at the Sanctioned by the Qatar Golf left defending champion Guan commencement of each tournament. Association and supported by going, ensuring the region’s talent Mohammed Faisal Al Naimi, Moroccan duo of Mustapha El Tianlang trailing yesterday. Tournament Field & Format the Qatar Olympic Committee, gets meaningful playing opportu- Executive Director of the Qatar Maouas (139 points) and Ahmed Lee, 19, held his nerve for a three- Each tournament will be a minimum of 54 the $50,000 tournament has nities to take their game to the Golf Association, said: “The Qatar Marjane (119) top the ama- shot victory after firing 70, 72, 69 holes, stroke-play event. attracted a strong field of 100 golf- next level. Classic will have a positive impact teur division. Launched by the and 70 for three-under 281 at par- Players play one round on each of the first ers, including 21 amateurs from “When we started the tour the growth of golf here besides ShaikhMaktoum Golf Foundation 71 Nanshan International Golf Club, two days, after which the leading 50, and 30 countries. in 2011, our primary aim was to showcasing our golfing facilities in 2011, the MENA Golf Tour is with Japan’s Shohei Hasegawa sec- those who tie for 50th place, go forward to Of particular significance provide emerging players, espe- to the world. affiliated to the R&A and the ond. Lee, who was second alongside the final round. is the presence of four Qatari cially from the region, a plat- “We are delighted to be part of Arab Golf Federation. Rory McIlroy at last week’s Kolon The standard starting field is 100 players, amateurs Saleh Al Kaabi, Faisal form to play against a top-class the MENA Golf Tour as we sup- Each tournament - a mini- Korean Open, will now follow China’s consisting of 60% professionals and 40% Mir, Ghanim Al Kuwari and international field. With the tour port all initiatives which target mum 54-hole stroke-play event Guan, 15, by playing at the Masters, amateurs. Abdulrahman Al Bish in the field. covering a vast expanse of the overall development of the game - carries World Ranking points and also gets a shot at qualifying for Order of Merit “We are grateful to these ama- region, they have a new window in the region,” he said. and $50,000 in prize money while the British Open. Separate Order of Merit for professionals teurs for being part of this tour of opportunity to enhance their “The tour has done a great job the season-ending MENA Tour “Playing in the Masters has and amateurs. and strongly believe their pres- careers. in creating a competitive environ- Championship has a prize fund been my dream since I started Each tournament receives official R&A ence will play an important role in “With the support of the Qatar ment for the region’s players to of $75,000 playing golf,” said the Seoul native. recognition and carries World Amateur developing the game at grassroots Olympic Committee, the Qatar grow and excel on the interna- The top three professionals “I didn’t think I would have an Ranking points. level,” said Buamaim. Golf Association and Doha Golf tional stage.” and the leading amateur from opportunity (to ever do so), so Prize Money “There is no dearth of enthu- Club, we are confident of deliv- England’s Zane Scotland is, their respective orders of merit this is a great honor, as is playing Each tournament carries a minimum siasm for the game here, as the ering an exciting tournament, at present, leading the Order get invites to the Omega Dubai in International Final Qualifying prize fund of $50,000 for professionals. overwhelming response to the which I believe will further stimu- of Merit for professionals with Desert Classic, the longest-run- for The Open Championship. I Total prize money of the MENA Tour Qatar Classic suggests, but we late interest in golf in the coun- $45,896 in earnings from the first ning European Tour event in the have never been so excited.” AFP Championship $525,000 have to keep the momentum try,” he added seven events on the tour while the region. THE PENINSULA MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 25

IHF Congress Del Potro downs Federer comes to a close in Doha

DOHA: The XXXIV Ordinary Congress of the International Handball Federation (IHF) to retain Basel crown came to an end in Doha yes- terday as delegates from 163 countries worldwide made a The Swiss can clinch London spot with second-round win in Paris lot of decisions on the future of handball. On the second day of the BASEL, Switzerland: Top Congress the delegates dealt seed Juan Martin Del Potro Juan Martin with the awarding of the won the Swiss Indoors for the Del Potro upcoming Youth and Junior second straight year as the (right) of World Championships in 2016 Argentine beat five-time cham- Argentina and 2017. pion Roger Federer 7-6 (7/3), poses with Russia will host the 2016 2-6, 6-4 yesterday. Women’s Junior World the winner’s The re-run of last year’s title Championship and Slovakia trophy after match, which ended with a simi- will stage the Women’s Youth lar result, took two hours, 20 he won his World Championship. minutes with Federer sealing his final match Georgia was awarded the fate at the start of the third set, against 2017 Men’s Youth World dropping serve as he delivered Switzerland’s Championship. After approval two double faults in the opening Roger from the Congress, the game. Federer at 2017 Men’s Junior World Even though Federer lost a the Swiss Championship and the 2015 chance to clinch a spot in the Indoors tour- Men’s Youth and Junior World ATP World Tour Finals in London nament in Championships will be awarded from November 4, the Swiss can Basel, yester- by the Council. assure himself a place in the day. RIGHT: At the first day of the eight-man field by winning his Del Potro XXXIV Ordinary (October opening second-round match next kisses the 26) Congress IHF President week at the Paris Masters. trophy during Dr Hassan Moustafa was re- Del Potro now owns four titles the award elected with more than 90 per this season and has defeated cent of all votes. ceremony. Federer in their last three Also IHF first Vice President matches. Miguel Roca Mas from Spain The modest Argentine was and Treasurer Sandi Sola from apologetic in victory after beat- two decades ago. He has played an seed. But the Swiss star’s misfire Croatia will continue in their ing the 17-time Grand Slam overall 10 finals in Basel, winning in the opening game of the final Youzhny stuns Ferrer to positions for the next four champion. five titles while he was bidding for set proved to be too much of a years period. “I’m sorry again to beat you his 78th career trophy from 113 gap to overcome as Federer went The IHF Council welcomes here,” he said only half-joking at finals. down to defeat after a Del Potro two new members - Executive the trophy presentation. Federer found himself on the 216kph ace set up match points. clinch Valencia title Committee Member Frantisek “It’s always a pleasure to play back foot as Del Potro came up The Argentine completed his Taborsky (Czech Republic) Roger. He’s the hero here and for the early leader in the 54-minute afternoon after Federer saved the VA LENCI A, SPA IN: Russian Mikhail Youzhny claimed his sec- and Rafael Sepulveda (Puerto me my biggest inspiration. opening set after breaking the first. ond title of the year as he upset home favourite David Ferrer 6-3, Rico), who was elected for the “You make history at every Swiss but then losing his own “Congratulations to Juan, 7-5 to win the Valencia Open yesterday. position as Chairman of the tournament you play. I’m proud serve a game later for a 5-4 lead. who has been having a great few Ferrer was aiming for his fourth title in his home region, but was Commission of Development to be playing at the same time as As the opener went into a years,” Federer said. “I had to far from his stubborn best as Youzhny’s power and depth of ground (CD). you.” tiebreaker, Del Potro claimed a fight hard all the way through. strokes proved too much for the number one seed. A further point on the Federer fired 14 aces to no 4-1 lead before Federer got back “I feel I was lifting my level but “I can only thank my team for helping me get to this part of the agenda of the Congress in the avail in the final as he failed to into the chase, pulling to 3-5 but so was he. At the end I felt I was season and being able to win a tournament,” said Youzhny. capital of Qatar was the admis- win what would have been just netting a forehand for three Del playing not badly at all.” “It has been a great week for me and I hope I can keep playing in sion of 18 new members into a second title in a disappointing Potro set points. Only one was Del Potro, already qualified for the same way to finish the year in Paris next week.” the handball family, which is season. required. London, added Basel to his tro- However, there was disappointment for Ferrer, who had come counting now 199 members. The 32-year-old was playing his Federer, loudly supported by an phies this season in Rotterdam, through an awkward draw to beat Gael Monfils, Jerzy Janowicz and The next Ordinary Congress eighth consecutive Basel final at entire stadium of 9,200 fans, ral- Washington and earlier this Nicolas Almagro only to fall at the final hurdle. will take place in Budapest, the stadium where he got his start lied in the second set to level with month in Tokyo. He now stands “It wasn’t the best final for me and even more so at home,” said Hungary in 2015. AGENCIES in the game as a ballboy nearly two breaks of the Argentine top 48-13 on the season. AFP Ferrer. AFP

Record-setting Roma restore Your TV guide for Moto2: West finishes 11th in live matches today five-point Japan; Sucipto battles on Event Competition Time Channel cushion Italy vs Mexico FIFA World Cup U-17 15:30 +4 MOTEGI, JAPAN: In an Qatar Motor and Japan vs Sweden FIFA World Cup U-17 16:00 HD5 action-packed Grand Prix Motorcycle Federation MILAN: League leaders Roma of Japan, Qatar Motor and (QMMF) rider Anthony beat Udinese 1-0 away yester- Jordan vs Nigeria International Friendly 18:00 +2 Motorcycle Federation West (95) takes a bend day to set a new all-time record Brazil vs Russia FIFA World Cup U-17 19:00 +4 (QMMF) Racing Team rider during the Japanese of nine consecutive wins at the Anthony West conquered a Honduras vs Uzbekistan FIFA World Cup U-17 19:00 HD5 start of a Serie A season to strong 11th place, whilst his Moto2 race yesterday. restore their five-point cushion. Brighton vs Watford English Championship 22:45 HD6 team-mate Rafid Topan Sucipto The Australian finished the race in 11th position. Roma, who have conceded just Pacos Ferreira vs Guimares Portuguese League 23:15 +2 enjoyed a thrill ride with the one goal in their nine wins under best of the world before crash- French coach Rudi Garcia, were Getafe vs Athletic La Liga 00:00 +3 ing out four laps from the end of reduced to 10 men in the second the Moto2 race. half after Brazilian Maicon saw Both riders had a good start, red for a second bookable offence. but couldn’t take advantage of However the setback failed to their positions, as the race was shake the leaders, who virtually red-flagged during the first lap. sealed the points when American Spaniard Tito Rabat had Michael Bradley scored with a crashed at the exit of turn one and precise first-time shot in the 82nd Scott Redding, Pol Espargarós minute. only remaining rival in the title Defending champions Juventus fight, hadn’t been able to avoid had set a record of nine succes- Rabat’s bike, which meant an end corner I had no grip, then mid- his engineers nor the young sive wins at the start of the 2005- to Reddings race, shattering his corner I had no grip either and on Indonesian teenager himself 2006 campaign, although that feat last hopes for the championship. the exit, the rear wheel would just expected his race pace to be as no longer stands after the Turin West, one of the fastest, but spin out. It was difficult to ride. fast as it was. giants were stripped of that sea- also one of the most experienced In the end our result doesn’t look Learning from the top riders son’s crown, as well as the previ- riders in the Moto2 class, had bad, but I feel we are far away around him, Sucipto started to ous year’s, due to their role in the almost a seventh sense when he from where we should be.” brake later and harder to the ‘Calciopoli’ match-fixing scandal. pulled on a tight inside line in this He added: “I feel I am riding point of his front fork bottoming Title challengers Napoli had corner and managed to avoid the the bike at the limit, but the out under the brake force, which heaped the pressure on Garcia’s melee. bike shouldn’t be in this position. eventually made him lose the side before what was always going The 32-year-old Australian Luckily, I didn’t get involved in front going into turn one. to be a tough away trip to Udinese started well a second time and the crash after the first start. Sucipto said: “I was a little bit by dominating Torino 2-0 at the Action between Eljaish and Lekhwiya in the Qatargas League match held 135h place after one lap, but A lot of things have happened nervous before the start, but I San Paolo to reduce their arrears in Doha yesterday. Eljaish won 3-0. In other matches, Al Sailiyah won struggled with speed and a lack at the exit of turn one on this tried to relax on the grid and I to two points. 2-1 against Mesaimeer, while Al Ahli beat Al Wakra 2-1. of traction and found it difficult track, with people running into was okay when the lights went And for much of what was a to get further towards the front. each other, so I was extra cau- out. After the first start however, balanced encounter, Roma finally Only in the last two laps, he tious. I saw a bit of movement and I almost crashed because another looked as if they would fail to take an opener on 38 minutes when their calm and Dutch midfielder managed to get the upper hand immediately went to the inside. I rider banged into me. That’s why all three points for the first time Leandro Castan peformed hero- Kevin Strootman held up play at in the group he was in to secure was glad I did, because I was right the second start was even more in the league this season. ics, his overhead kick on the goal- the edge of the area before squar- eleventh place. behind them when they all went difficult for me. But I got away Goalkeeper Morgan De Sanctis line keeping out Gabriel Silva’s ing for Bradley to beat Kevala West said: “My position is good down. Bad luck for the guys that well again and when another rider had to get down quick to smother goalbound effort. with a coolly-taken first-timer and points are always good, but I got injured, it is never good to see hit the brakes really hard right in a dangerous first-timer from At the other end Kelava had to shot. am still disappointed. I was almost a crash like that. I am just glad front of me, I managed to do the striker Antonio Di Natale early punch out Pjanic’s ambitious long- Roma now lead Napoli by five touching the rear tyres of many that I was able to avoid it.” same and was able to follow for a on, while Daniele De Rossi bun- range freekick after Adem Ljajic points with Juventus remaining in of the riders just trying to get in Sucipto, who had been the sen- while, which felt really good.” dled a shot wide shortly for the had been bundled to the ground. third, also five points adrift, after their slipstream so I could try and sation in qualifying when he put He added: “My only problem visitors on the half hour. Eight minutes after the restart a 2-0 home win over Genoa. out-brake them in the next cor- his bike into fifth position, enjoyed was that when we tried to find the Miralem Pjanic’s first-time Maicon’s drive from 15 metres Elsewhere yesterday, days ner. Everything I did was a battle a fantastic experience battling best possible set-up this morn- effort sailed low past outstretched sailed just over the Udinese after an impressive perform- to get more speed out of the bike. with the top riders of the Moto2 ing, we still didn’t have the right Udinese ‘keeper Ivan Kelava, who crossbar, but 13 minutes later he ance which earned a 1-1 draw at In the end I beat the group I was category. references and when I was faster was then at full stretch to tip over marched off after an unneces- home to Champions League group with, so I am happy with that. But In the extended free practice in the race, these settings didn’t Marco Borriello’s looping header sary foul on Emmanuel Badu in opponents Barcelona, AC Milan it was hard. From the beginning session yesterday, he started to match my pace with harder brak- at the far post. midfield. dropped precious points in a 3-2 of the race, I had big problems adapt his Speed Up prototype ing and later corner entries.” Udinese were only denied Roma, to their credit, kept defeat at Parma. AFP with rear traction. Entering the to dry conditions, but neither THE PENINSULA MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 26 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

Red Bull driver Sebastian Vettel of Germany celebrates with his team-mates after winning the Formula One Indian Grand Prix and his fourth successive world title at the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida on the outskirts of New Delhi, yesterday. CENTRE: Vettel is seen with the Red Bull team. RIGHT: Vettel bows to the ground after the race. The victory was his third in a row at the same venue and became the youngest ever quadruple champion. Vettel claims historic fourth title The 26-year-old puts his name in the record books as youngest quadruple champion

GREATER NOIDA, India: empty when I crossed the line. I Germany’s Sebastian Vettel spent ages thinking what to say, roared into the record books there is so much you want to say The German reveals as Formula One’s youngest at a time like that.” four-times world champion Vettel compensated later, after winning the Indian Grand talking at length to reporters Prix for the third year in a row while swigging happily from his booing did hurt yesterday. champagne bottle as team mem- The 26-year-old’s Red Bull bers put on the commemorative GREATER NOIDA, India: streak to clinch the champi- team also took the construc- T-shirts that have been ready for An emotional Sebastian Vettel onship, Vettel also heard com- tors’ world championship for the some time. yesterday admitted it was plaints that he was making the fourth successive year. “It has not been an easy sea- tough to deal with being booed sport boring. “You’ve done it in style,” Red son. From the outside people will this season -- but said he found The young German was any- Bull principal Christian Horner think it was easy but it wasn’t. It the perfect riposte by winning thing but staid in his celebrations shouted over the team radio as has been hard for me in particular the world championship once at Buddh International Circuit, Vettel took the chequered flag to be booed when I have not done again. where he span doughnuts in his with a massive 29.8-second lead anything wrong,” he said. The likeable Vettel, 26, said Red Bull before bowing in front over compatriot Nico Rosberg for The boos that marked some of booing and jeering which greeted of the car in mock worship. Mercedes. his earlier wins were absent yes- his wins in Belgium, Italy and Vettel, who was also lifted onto “Brilliant drive. You join the terday, with the German’s title Singapore, as he took control of the shoulders of Nico Rosberg greats, mate. You’re up there.” a foregone conclusion and the the season, had come as a shock. and Romain Grosjean, who The victory from pole position crowd happy to witness history But Vettel, who won the placed second and third, called was Vettel’s sixth in a row and in the making. Indian Grand Prix to seal his it simply the “best day of his life”. completed a hat-trick in India Vettel had led Ferrari’s fourth successive world title, said “I am speechless,” a visibly where no other driver has won Fernando Alonso, the only man he was glad he had managed to drained Vettel said. “I spent ages since the race, which may be who could put his celebrations answer his critics with his per- thinking what to say, there is so making its final appearance on on hold, by 90 points before the formances on the track. much you want to say at a time the calendar, made its debut in start with three races remaining “To be booed when I had not like this.” 2011. - worth a maximum 75 - after done anything wrong was hard, “I am overwhelmed. It is the Vettel becomes the fourth India. He now has 322 to Alonso’s but I think I answered the things best day of my life so far.” quadruple champion and only the 207. on the track which I am very He also paid warm tribute to third driver to land four titles in a Red Bull have 470 points in the pleased about,” he said. his Red Bull team, who have now row after Germany’s seven-times constructors’ with Mercedes leap- “I don’t blame the people who won both the drivers’ and con- winner Michael Schumacher and frogging Ferrari into second place booed me. It does not feel great. structors’ title for four seasons the late Argentine Juan Manuel with 313. In fact one guy wrote a letter in a row. Fangio. Alonso needed to finish in the and apologised that he was boo- “The guys are working very He is also the the only one top two but his hopes evaporated ing. He felt bad about it. hard behind the scenes. And to have won his first four at the start when he tagged the “We are all part of the sport. when you see their paychecks, consecutively. rear of Mark Webber’s Red Bull If some people have passion for you would be surprised. It would The German celebrated by and then also made contact with Ferrari for some reason, it’s all seem they were working at adding some tyre smoke to the Jenson Button’s McLaren. right. It is not necessarily my McDonald’s,” said Vettel. haze of polllution hanging over The Spaniard, who had to pit Mercedes’ Nico Rosberg of Germany (left), and Lotus driver Romain fault. I am mature enough to He added: “When I started to the Buddh International circuit, for a new front wing before rejoin- Grosjean of France (right) lift Vettel on the victory podium after the race. understand that.” race, Formula One seemed so far slowing the car on the pit straight ing the race in 20th place with his Vettel became the third driver to clinch four titles in a row after Michael The booing, which Vettel has away, but there are so many peo- and then spinning it around with strategy in tatters, finished out of Schumacher and Juan Manuel Fangio. blamed on a small section of dis- ple I have to thank along the way some ‘donuts’ for the fans. the points in 11th spot. gruntled Ferrari fans, has been from karting to here,” he said. Vettel got out, standing up on “This is a sport, someone is an unfortunate feature of the “I was taught so many things the car before crouching to kiss better than us,” he told report- Ferrari’s Felipe Massa finished good for 15 laps at most and the season. and I have always tried to lis- the front in a gesture of worship. ers. “This year it was Sebastian fourth, after leading for six laps mediums 35 although Grosjean Vettel first attracted criticism ten, but to come out on top of Clambering up the wire fence, he and Red Bull. Next year we will when Vettel pitted at the end of did 46 laps on the latter. when he ignored team orders this incredibly talented field is threw his gloves into the grand- try to do better.” lap two to switch from soft tyres Lewis Hamilton was sixth for and overtook Red Bull stable- amazing. I am not old yet but I stand before scaling the pitwall Webber, who led for much of to mediums, with Mexican Sergio Mercedes with Kimi Raikkonen, mate Mark Webber to win the am getting older and maybe I am to embrace Horner and designer the early part of the race after Perez fifth for McLaren in his who wrestled with overheating Malaysian Grand Prix. not grasping it yet. Maybe in 10 Adrian Newey. starting on the longer-lasting best result of the year. brakes for much of the race and And while he has been putting years’ time I will look back and “How do I feel? I’m over- medium tyre in a different strat- Massa became the first driver was overtaken by Grosjean, sev- together a six-race winning realise the enormity.” AFP whelmed. One of the best days of egy to Vettel, retired on lap 40 other than Vettel, who was up to enth for Lotus. The Force Indias my life so far,” he said in a podium with an alternator problem. third place again by lap 13 despite of Paul Di Resta and Adrian Sutil interview alongside Rosberg and “I still have a smile on my face, his early stop and regained the were eighth and ninth. third-placed Frenchman Romain there’s nothing more I could do lead at the halfway mark when Australian Daniel Ricciardo Indian Grand Prix Results Grosjean, who had roared through today,” said the Australian, whose Webber pitted, to lead a lap in who will be Vettel’s team-mate GREATER NOIDA, India: Results from the Indian Grand Prix from 17th on the grid for Lotus team had some nervous moments India. next year for the new season, yesterday: and ran as high as second. after his retirement in case the Tyre choices were crucial, with handed Toro Rosso the final “I am speechless and I was same happened to Vettel. Pirelli advising that the softs were point. REUTERS 1. Sebastian Vettel (GER/Red Bull Racing) ...... 1:31.12.187 2. Nico Rosberg (GER/Mercedes) at ...... 29.823 3. Romain Grosjean (FRA/Lotus) at ...... 39.892 Factbox 4. Felipe Massa (BRA/Scuderia Ferrari) at ...... 41.692 GREATER NOIDA, India: MotoGP: Lorenzo wins to set 5. Sergio Perez (MEX/McLaren Mercedes) at ...... 43.829 Brief facts about Sebastian 6. Lewis Hamilton (GBR/Mercedes) at ...... 52.475 Vettel, who secured his fourth 7. Kimi Raikkonen (FIN/Lotus) at ...... 1:07.988 straight world title yesterday: up championship decider 8. Paul Di Resta (GBR/Force India) at ...... 1:12.868 Date of birth: July 3, 1987 (age 26) 9. Adrian Sutil (GER/Force India) at ...... 1:14.734 Place of birth: Heppenheim, Germany MOTEGI, Japan: The MotoGP world champion- after a spectacular duel. Third was Dani Pedrosa, 10. Daniel Ricciardo (AUS/Scuderia Toro Rosso) at ...... 1:16.237 Nationality: German ship will go down to the final race of the season also on a Honda. 11. Fernando Alonso (ESP/Scuderia Ferrari) at ...... 1:18.297 Teams: BMW Sauber (2007), Toro Rosso after Jorge Lorenzo (pictured bottom left) won This was Lorenzo’s 51st career win and seventh 12. Pastor Maldonado (VEN/Williams) at ...... 1:18.951 (2007-2008), Red Bull (2009-present) the Japan Grand Prix yesterday ahead of title in this season, while Yamaha celebrated its 200th 13. Jean-Eric Vergne (FRA/Scuderia Toro Rosso) ...... 1 lap Number of grands prix: 117 rival Marc Marquez. victory in the MotoGP class. 14. Jenson Button (GBR/McLaren Mercedes) ...... 1 lap First pole position: Italy 2008 Marquez, 20, bidding to become the youngest ever “It’s one of the happiest days in my MotoGP 15. Esteban Gutierrez (MEX/Sauber) ...... 1 lap Total pole positions: 43 MotoGP world champion, is guaranteed to win the career,” said Lorenzo, adding the only disappoint- Constructors’ standings First win: Italy 2008 title if he places fourth or better in a fortnight in ment is that he only made up five points on Marquez Valencia, regardless of Lorenzo’s performance. after picking up 25 points for the victory. 1. Red Bull Racing 470 pts, 2. Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team 313, 3. Scuderia Ferrari Total wins: 36 Marquez, who is still favourite to become the first “Anyway, we tried our best. Things we could do, 309, 4. Lotus 285, 5. McLaren Mercedes 93, 6. Force India 68, 7. Sauber 45, 8. Scuderia Toro World championships: 2010, 2011, 2012, rookie title winner for 35 years, leads the standings we did,” he said. Rosso 32, 9. Williams 1 2013 on 318 points, 13 more than fellow Spaniard Lorenzo. Pedrosa began to slip away on lap 15, leaving Marquez said he struggled with his braking on the Lorenzo and Marquez to engage in a gruelling bat- Japan Results stop-and-go Motegi Circuit, and decided to settle tle that gradually intensified. MOTEGI, Japan: Results from the Grand Prix of Japan at Twin for second after judging that it would be difficult to On the previous lap Marquez closed in on Lorenzo Ring Motegi yesterday: catch his countryman. from the outside, looking to take him on. Their bikes “In the end, I saw Jorge started to push a little bit nearly touched but the Yamaha rider edged by to MotoGP more,” Marquez said, adding he had pushed himself maintain his position. 1. Jorge Lorenzo (ESP/Yamaha) 42min 34.291sec, 2. Marc Marquez (ESP/Repsol Honda) at 3.188, to the limit. By lap 20, Lorenzo had begun to widen his lead 3. Dani Pedrosa (ESP/Repsol Honda) 4.592, 4. Alvaro Bautista (ESP/Gresini Honda) 19.755, 5. Stefan “So I said, 20 points (second place) for the cham- with Marquez navigating carefully around slower Bradl (GER/Honda) 22.810, 6. Valentino Rossi (ITA/Yamaha) 24.637, 7.Cal Crutchlow (GBR/Yamaha pionship. In Valencia there will be another race. It riders who had been lapped by the frontrunners. Tech) 27.496, 8. Bradley Smith (GBR/Yamaha Tech) 30.969, 9. Nicky Hayden (USA/Ducati) 37.010, will be interesting, for sure.” Lorenzo steamed home in 42min 34.291sec, fol- 10. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA/Team Ducati) 42.944. Valencia will be the first time in seven years that lowed by Marquez who finished 3.188sec later. MotoGP overall standings: 1. Marc Marquez (ESP/Repsol Honda) 318 pts, 2. Jorge Lorenzo (ESP/ the world title has gone down to the wire. Conditions at the mountainous Motegi cir- Yamaha) 305, 3. Dani Pedrosa (ESP/Repsol Honda) 280, 4. Valentino Rossi (ITA/Yamaha) 224, 5. Yamaha rider Lorenzo, 26, the current world cuit were dry and sunny yesterday, after Cal Crutchlow (GBR/Yamaha) 188, 6. Alvaro Bautista (ESP/Honda) 160, 7. Stefan Bradl (GER/Honda) champion, started from pole position and staged an dense fog and torrential rain forced the cancellation 146, 8. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA/Ducati) 133, 9. Nicky Hayden (USA/Ducati) 118, 10. Bradley Smith impeccable display to tame Marquez, on a Honda, of free practice on Friday and Saturday. AFP (GBR/Yamaha) 107 MONDAY 28 OCTOBER 2013 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 27

Fahad Saad Al Qahtani, (back row, fourth right) Director of Al Shaqab, Dr H C Klaus Schormann, (back row, sixth right) President of Union International de Pentathlon Moderne (UIPM), and other officials along with participants of the Champion of Champions at Al Shaqab Arena in Doha yesterday. CENTRE: Third placed Stanislau Zhurauliou from Belarus is seen during the riding event. RIGHT: Chrlstopher Patte from France takes aim during the shooting event. Patte won the competition with a total of 5,760 points. PICTURES BY: KAMMUTTY VP Patte seals the deal on Doha debut Champion of Champions: Cuba’s Figueroa and Zhurauliou of Belarus complete top three

BY RIZWAN REHMAT shooting. I am too fat (laughs). I am preparing for my holiday now. Top-10 Results at DOHA: French modern pen- I hope I can reach Rio (Olympic Winner Patte tathlete Christopher Patte Games in 2016),” he added. Al Shaqab (left) and yesterday relied on a powerful “Of course I am happy with my 1) Christopher Patte, France runner- session in the fencing compe- performance. At this level this is 5,760 (points) tition to win the Champion of my first major show,” the 23-year- up Jose 2) Jose Figueroa, Cuba 5,720 Figueroa Champions title at Al Shaqab old said. 3) Stanislau Zhurauliou, Belarus, Arena. “The combined event was my from Cuba 5,696 hold a ban- The 23-year-old topped the strength. I won the fencing event 4) Pavlo Tymoshchenko, fencing event to manage a tally and that pleased me. I trained two ner after the Ukraine, 5,636 Champion of of 5,760 points on way to vic- months for this event,” he added. 5) Justinas Kinderis Lithuania, tory against a strong field of 16 Second-placed Figueroa, who Champions 5,616 pentathletes. was expecting to finish in the top leg. Figueroa 6) Jean maxence Berrou, France, Cuba’s Jose Figueroa won the five, was thrilled with the result. scored a 5,588 silver with a score of 5,720 points “First I would like to go for the total of 7) Valentin Belaud, France, 5,588 while Stanislau Zhurauliou of Pan American Games and then 5,720, 40 8) Valentin Prades, France, Belarus finished in the third spot maybe the Olympic Games. This points less 5,584 (5,696). is a great venue. I was expect- than Patte. Patte was pleased with his ing to finish in top five but I am 9) Denys Pavlyuk, Ukraine, 5,560 performance. happy I finished in second place,” 10) Jorge Abraham Camacho, “I am very happy. Winning in Figueroa, who won the combined Mexico 5,524 Qatar is satisfying. Competition event, said. here was tough,” Patte said. A fire fighter at his hometown I trained only two weeks in the to do better in future,” he added. After the opening two events, event and moved up to third place “I showed good form from the in Homel, Zhurauliou of Belarus lead-up to this event,” the silver The fencing event saw Figueroa Patte was leading the competition. in the standings before the final very first competition this year. said he was delighted to secure a medallist at the 2012 UIPM World and Zhurauliou share first place, At Al Shaqab Arena, in the combined events. I am very happy with my per- place on the podium. Cup in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, followed closely by Patte. showjumping event saw Patte Leader Patte started the com- formance this season. Fencing “I am very happy. This is a nice said. The Qatar Foundation keep his lead on the general rank- bined events first and kept his was good for me. This is a great venue with a strong field,” the “Maybe if I train harder I could Recreation Centre saw Egyptian ing, taking a comfortable sixth winning position until the end facility, wow. 25-year-old said. do better. Fencing and shooting Amro El Geziry dominate, beating place after his ride. of the race with Figueroa and “Yes, I was happy with my “I am very pleased. For me this were my strong points and this is his nearest rival by 1.2 seconds in With a fantastic performance, Zhurauliou unable to threaten running but my main event is was a surprising result because a beautiful result for me. I want swimming. Figueroa won the showjumping his lead. THE PENINSULA

Steyn to miss Indian batting legend Tendulkar felicitated India, Pakistan first two ODI in World matches in Twenty20 Pakistan series opening clash

DUBAI: Paceman Dale Steyn DHAKA: Rivals India and will miss the first two of the five- Pakistan were drawn against match one-day series against each other yesterday for next Pakistan to rest his body, South year’s World Twenty20, mark- African team management said ing an explosive start to the yesterday. competition, the International The 30-year-old Steyn featured Cricket Council (ICC) in the second Test, which South announced in Dhaka. Africa won by an innings and 92 Former champions India will runs on Saturday, despite suffer- meet Pakistan as part of the ing from a hamstring injury three 22-day tournament played in days before the match. several locations in Bangladesh, He showed no signs of discom- featuring 16 countries and start- fort and took four wickets in the ing on March 16 next year. match but the team management India and Pakistan are among decided to rest Steyn in the first Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar (left) receives a memento from Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and former BCCI president eight sides which have been given two matches in Sharjah (October Ranbir Singh Mahendra (centre) at the Chaudhary Bansi Lal Cricket Stadium prior to the Ranji Trophy match between Mumbai and Haryana, yester- direct entry into the Super 10 30) and in Dubai (November 1). day. The match will be Tendulkar’s final First class match before retiring from the sport after the second Test match against West Indies next month. stage of the competition, based “Steyn is being rested for the Tendulkar’s former India Test team-mate VVS Laxman was also present. RIGHT: Players applaud Tendulkar prior to the match. Tendulkar lasted just on the ICC’s T20 team rankings. first two one-days, and will return eight minutes on the crease and was out for just five runs, having faced seven balls. The Super 10 stage will start back to South Africa before join- with a match between India and ing up with the squad for the Pakistan in Mirpur on March 21, remainder of the series as well as while the West Indies will begin the T20 series,” said team man- their title defence on March 23 ager Mohammed Moosajee. Former players say series against India also in Mirpur. Steyn will be available for the The other teams with direct third match in Abu Dhabi on entry into the Super 10 stage are November 6, the fourth match Australia, Sri Lanka, England, (also in Abu Dhabi on November result is fair for Pakistan South Africa and New Zealand. 8) and the fifth match in Sharjah Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, (November 11). DUBAI: Former Pakistan players yesterday Sohail termed the absence of a fifth bowler as “a who finished outside the top eight Star batsman Hashim Amla, termed a 1-1 series draw as a “fair result” for their big lacking for Pakistan.” in rankings, will compete with six who missed the second Test after team against the world’s top-ranked nation South “Most of the teams have a fifth or a sixth bowler other qualifying teams in the first returning home to attend the Africa. who are either their all-rounders or any batsman round from March 16 to 21 for birth of his child, is also doubtful Pakistan went down by an innings and 92 runs in who can also bowl but Pakistan lack in that depart- the remaining two places in the for the first one-day. the Dubai Test on Saturday, a result that squared ment and we miss a fifth bowler when it is needed,” Super 10 stage. “Colin Ingram has been placed the two-match series after they had won the first said Sohail, also a former chief selector. The eight teams in the first on stand-by for Amla, who is still Test by seven wickets in Abu Dhabi. Another former captain Rashid Latif agreed a 1-1 round have been divided into two in South Africa awaiting the birth Former captain Aamir Sohail said the result was result was acceptable. groups of four teams, each with of his second child. Ingram will not to be sniffed at, especially after their embarrass- “It’s a fair result because South Africa proved table-toppers progressing to the join up with the squad on Monday ing defeat against minnows Zimbabwe last month. they are currently the best Test team in the world,” next stage. morning,” said Moosajee. “It is more than a fair result because of the way he said. The six qualifying teams to join Moosajee also added that Pakistan cricket is run,” Sohail said. “The South African bowlers adjusted their length the first round will be decided former coach Gary Kirsten will “A win in the second Test was never on the cards in Dubai and their whole team played for the pride at the end of the World T20 join to help the one-day squad for Pakistan as South Africa were expected to come of the nation and team.” qualifiers. with their batting, confirm- back strongly and they did. Latif did not have such kind words for the These will be held in the UAE ing that he will spend five days “South Africa were stunned by the defeat in the Pakistani batsmen, though, after they slumped to a between November 15 and 30. between the second and third first Test but the way they hit back showed that they low score of just 99 in the first innings. Prize money for the event, one-days in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. are the world’s best Test team,” he added. South Africa piled up a big 418-run lead by which will end on April 6, has “Gary is a World Cup-winning Sohail said Pakistan must learn to play a fifth scoring 517 in their only innings, and while Asad England Ashes Test cricketer been set at $3m, with the win- coach and it would be naive for bowler in Tests. Shafiq (130) and Misbah-ul Haq (88) fought hard Steven Finn bowls during a train- ner receiving $1.1m and the losing us not to tap into his wisdom. We “I think there are a few lessons to be learnt, espe- in response, Pakistan were dismissed for 326 on the ing session at the WACA Ground finalist collecting $550,000. have a crop of young batsmen in cially they must realise the importance of a third fourth evening. in Perth yesterday. England play The Women’s World Twenty20 the squad we feel will gain a lot fast bowler and play with five bowlers in all.” “The Pakistani batsmen struggled after the first their first Test against Australia will also be held alongside the of insight from his vast batting Pakistan used two frontline pacers in Mohammad innings of the first Test and committed so many at the Gabba in Brisbane on men’s event in Bangladesh with experience and knowledge,” said Irfan and Junaid Khan and two spinners in Saeed mistakes in the remaining three innings,” said 10 teams competing in the com- November 21. Moosajee of Kirsten. AFP Ajmal and Zulfiqar Babar in the two Tests, but Latif. AFP petition. AFP Monday 28 October 2013 23 Dhul-Hijja 1434 Volume 18 Number 5866 Sport Price: QR2

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ISTANBUL: Serena Williams emotional erup- and the mood of Meanwhile, Jankovic appeared successfully defended her WTA tions of her WTA Championships the match began to question Serena’s sportsman- Championships title yesterday, semi-final with Results to shift. Although ship after losing a close three-set beating Li Na, 2-6, 6-3, 6-0, to Jankovic were ISTANBUL: Results from the sixth and final Li got back to match in the semi-finals. finish 2013 with a 78th victory nowhere to be day of the WTA Championships yesterday (x 3-3 with some Serena, who claims to be Serena Williams and 11th title of the year. seen or heard denotes seeding): impressively pos- exhausted near the end of a long of the US lifts The 32-year-old world number and her move- Singles itive driving, her season, reacted with fretful wor- her trophy after one from the US had admitted ment was leaden. serve was becom- rying, and sometimes distracting Serena Williams (USA x1) bt Li Na (CHN x4) defeating Li to feeling physically exhausted Sometimes ing more vari- behaviour while struggling to a 2-6, 6-3, 6-0 Na of China in before, during and after a fraught she was forced able, and a double 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 two-hour win over Doubles the final match semi-final with Jelena Jankovic on to contain or fault contributed Jankovic. It included weeping into for the WTA Saturday and at 3-3 in the second defend, and in Su-Wei Hsieh/Peng Shuai (TPE/(CHN) bt to a lost service her towel, gesticulating and arm- Ekaterina Makarova/ Championships set yesterday, she looked in dan- the first set she game which put waving, bending over and slump- Elena Vesnina (RUS) 6-4, 7-5 in Istanbul, ger of a surprise defeat. managed a mere her at 3-5. ing, yelling and calling out, and Turkey, yes- “But I had to keep going, I hung five winners -- a By now both moving during the rallies terday. Serena in there, and it’s amazing to win paltry total for her. Li managed Serena’s survival instincts were and conducting the game at dif- this,” said Williams. twice as many. Expectations were engaged intently. She closed out ferent speeds. retained the WTA Li, the first Chinese player turned on their head. the set after another service game “I never saw her do this when Championships to make the final of the end of Serena held on to her serve of several deuces, and when Li she’s leading,” Jankovic said of title and fin- season showpiece and about in the seventh game but the set delivered her eighth double fault to Serena’s go-slow moments. ished the year to become the highest-ranked was effectively gone. The second lose the opening game of the final “You know, every time she has by clinching the Asian woman at number three set started with a mighty battle, set the tide completely turned. a lead, she’s running for the balls 11th title of the in the world, made one break of which resulted in Williams hang- Li double faulted again to go and she’s hitting those big serves. year. serve for 2-1 in the first set with ing on to her serve after almost 0-3 down and an encouraged “For some reason, every time a wrong-footing backhand drive, 12 minutes of effort and eight Williams, with the finishing line she starts losing, she starts serv- and another for 4-1 by punishing deuces. It was a big moment. closer, was hitting the ball better. ing slower or not running for cer- a moderate Serena serve. Next game she broke Li’s serve, After the last shot she placed tain balls. That’s something that The world number one looked extracting a volleying error on her forehead on the court as if in as a player you have to pay atten- subdued and shackled. The break point, and advanced to 3-1, thanksgiving for redemption. tion.” AGENCIES Torres pounces late to send Chelsea second

LONDON: Fernando Torres’s when, from some 20 yards wide Fletcher’s fifth-minute header had perseverance was rewarded out on the left, he managed to fire given them the lead. Victory gave when his last-minute goal saw in a shot that clipped the angle of Sunderland manager Gus Poyet a Chelsea to a 2-1 win at home the far post and bar. win in his first game in charge at to title rivals Manchester City Chelsea’s failure to make the the Stadium of Light but was not yesterday that catapulted the most of their early dominance good enough to lift the Black Cats London club into second place caught up with them four minutes out of the bottom three. in the Premier League table. after half-time when, having been “Everything is big today,” said The match was heading for played in by Samir Nasri, Aguero Poyet, who replaced the sacked a draw when, after Willian had let fly with a swerving left-foot Paolo did Canio earlier this helped the ball forward, a mix-up shot that beat a static Petr Cech month. saw City defender Matija Nastasic at his near post. “It’s a first win against our big- head the ball past his own keeper, Across London, Tottenham gest rivals in our (his) first home Joe Hart, with the onrushing Hotspur moved up into fourth game. The fans are going to be Torres turning the ball into an place with a 1-0 victory against delighted and the players will be empty net to the delight of the Hull at White Hart Lane. relieved. We needed this. Stamford Bridge faithful. Roberto Soldado scored the only “(The introduction of Borini) Torres’s winner left Chelsea goal of the game, 10 minutes from was a moment when we needed just two points behind leaders time, when he converted a penalty to take risk. What a goal, the Arsenal and atoned for his dra- awarded after Jan Vertonghen’s stadium nearly came down,” the matic 29th minute miss when, cross hit the arms of Ahmed Uruguayan added. with the match still goalless, he Elmohamady. “This will change our season. somehow shot over the bar from At the other end of the table, I’m sure the players will be even 10 yards out. The Spain striker Sunderland climbed off the bottom more together and the fans will turned provider for Chelsea’s 33rd with a 2-1 home win over arch- look forward to the next game. minute opener when his run and rivals Newcastle. We have done nothing, it was nice cross from the right set up Andre Fabio Borini’s blistering 18-yard for us and the fans but we need to Schurrle, who from a mere four shot six minutes from time saw keep winning games.” yards out, eased the ball in for his the Black Cats to a first league Yesterday’s other match saw first Chelsea goal. win of the season, following seven Swansea and West Ham share the Torres then almost made it 2-0 defeats and a draw, after Steven points in a goalless draw. AFP English Premier League Results Sunderland 2 (Fletcher 5, Borini 84) Newcastle 1 (Debuchy 57) Chelsea 2 (Schurrle 33, Torres 90) Manchester City (Aguero 49) 1 Swansea 0 West Ham 0 Tottenham 1 (Soldado 80-pen) Hull 0 Played on Saturday Aston Villa 0 Everton 2 (Lukaku 68, Osman 81) Crystal Palace 0 Arsenal 2 (Arteta 47-pen, Giroud 87) Liverpool 4 (Suarez 12, 17, 55, Sturridge 77) West Brom 1 (Morrison 66-pen) Manchester United 3 (Van Persie 43, Rooney 78, Hernandez 80) Stoke 2 (Crouch 4, Arnautovic 45) Norwich 0 Cardiff 0 Swansea City’s striker Alvaro Vazquez (left) vies with West Ham United’s Southampton 2 defender James Tomkins during the English Premier League match at (Lambert 20, Rodriguez 42) Fulham 0 the Liberty Stadium in Swansea, South Wales, yesterday.