Pilgrims Throng Arafat As Hajj Reaches Climax

N IO T IP R C S B U S

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 THULHIJJA 10, 1436 AH www.kuwaittimes.net EID GREETINGS Kuwait Times Editor-in-Chief Abd Al-Rahman Al- Alyan wishes HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- Ahmad Al-Sabah, HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, Cabinet members, heads of states around the world, Kuwaitis, expatriates and our valued readers Eid Mubarak! Kuwait Times will not be published from Friday, Sept 25 to Sunday, Sept 27. Our next issue will be out on Monday, Sept 28, 2015. S L I F

0 5 1 Pilgrims throng Arafat

0 Min 26º 5 6 6

1 Max 44º

: O N as hajj reaches climax High Tide 06:55 & 21:30 S E

G Low Tide A P Faithful pray for peace on Mount Mercy 0 01:00 & 14:20 4 MOUNT ARAFAT: Around two million white-clad Muslims yesterday poured into the vast Saudi plain where Prophet Sisi pardons two Muhammad (PBUH) gave his final sermon, for the peak of the hajj pilgrimage. Many of the faithful from around the Jazeera journos globe camped at the foot of Mount Arafat where they slept, exhausted from their journey, and prayed despite CAIRO: Egypt’s president yesterday pardoned Al- the scorching sun. Carrying colorful umbrellas, they Jazeera’s jailed Canadian journalist Mohamed walked from dawn in massive crowds towards the slip- Fahmy and his colleague Baher Mohamed, who pery, rocky hill which is also known as Mount Mercy. were sentenced last month to three years in prison, Here Muhammad (PBUH) gave his final sermon 14 cen- the presidency said. A spokesman for President turies ago after leading his followers on hajj. To organize Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, Alaa Youssef, told AFP the Al- the flow of pilgrims, security forces formed human chains Jazeera journalists were among a group of inmates along the roads of the vast Arafat plain. Along the way, pardoned, as state news agency MENA said the par- volunteers handed out boxes of food and cold water bot- don covered 100 prisoners, including women tles. For many pilgrims, hajj is the spiritual highlight of activists Sana Seif and Yara Sallam. their lives. “We feel blessed. I got goosebumps, a feeling Fahmy and Mohamed were sentenced in a retrial that cannot be explained, when reaching the top of the to three years in August for allegedly fabricating mountain,” said Ruhaima Emma, a 26-year-old Filipina pil- “false” news in support of the blacklisted Muslim grim, who said she has been “praying for a good life for Brotherhood movement, which the army removed everyone”. For Akram Ghannam, 45, from war-torn Syria, from power in 2013 and outlawed. Australian being in Arafat is a “feeling that cannot be described. I reporter Peter Greste was also convicted, although pray to God for the victory of all those who are he had been deported by presidential decree. It was oppressed.” not immediately clear if he was included in the par- Many reached Arafat by bus while some walked from don. Their detention and trial sparked global criti- the holy city of Makkah about 15 km away. Other pilgrims cism towards Sisi, who has said he wished the jour- arrived from nearby Mina using the elevated Mashair nalists had been deported from the outset rather Railway linking the holy sites of Arafat, Muzdalifah and than put on trial. Mina, a tent city where many pilgrims spent Tuesday Continued on Page 13 MAKKAH: A pilgrim reads the Holy Quran on a rocky hill called Mount Mercy on the plain of Arafat near this night. After sunset yesterday they moved to Muzdalifah. holy city yesterday. — AP Continued on Page 13 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 LOCAL Hajj mission’s teams attend Crown Prince receives to pilgrims at Mount Arafat Eid Al-Adha greetings KUWAIT: His Highness the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad MECCA: The Kuwaiti Hajj mission’s teams started Kuwaiti pilgrims were completed. He added that 12th month of the Islamic calendar, and is an Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received yesterday a on carrying out their tasks at Mount Arafat since all teams of the Kuwaiti mission have taken their integral part of the pilgrimage of Hajj, the fifth cable from National Assembly Speaker dawn yesterday as they took their locations des- positions at Mount Arafat and were ready to pillar of Islam. Marzouq Ali Al-Ghanem congratulating ignated to them by the Saudi authorities. The serve the Kuwaiti pilgrims. He praised the excel- Hajj officially began on Tuesday, on the 8th him on the advent of Eid Al-Adha. medical teams began assisting those in need lent services extended by the government of the day of Dhul Hijjah, when pilgrims from all over In his cable, Ghanem expressed his sin- through two separate clinics. Members of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to all pil- the world began travelling from the holy city of cere best wishes, good health, and prosper- Public Authority for Youth and Sport were seen grims. Makkah to Mina, which is roughly eight kilome- ity to His Highness the Deputy Amir and at the entrances and exits of the mission’s head- Muslims around the globe yesterday com- ters away. Crown Prince and to the people of Kuwait quarters organizing work. memorate the Day of Arafat, considered the Yesterday, after the dawn prayers in Mina, under the wisdom of His Highness the Amir Kuwaiti pilgrims had arrived to Mount Arafat most important day of Hajj during which pil- the pilgrims started their journey to Arafat, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. from Mina safely and in good conditions, Head grims gather on the desert planes of Arafat, near about 14 kilometers away. Muslims believe that His Highness sent a reply cable to National of the Kuwaiti Hajj Mission Khulaif Al-Utheinah Makkah, to pray to their Lord. the Day of Arafat is a day when ones’ sins can Assembly Speaker in which he expressed said, adding that all services rendered to the The day falls on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, the be forgiven. —KUNA congratulations and best wishes and more prosperity for Kuwait, its people, Arab and Islamic nations. Meanwhile, His Highness Sheikh Nawaf sent a cable to the President of the Kuwait National Guard His Highness Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah and Sheikh Mubarak Al- His Highness the Deputy Amir and Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah congratulat- Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al- ing them on the advent of Eid Al-Adha, asking Allah Almighty to have many returns of Ahmad Al-Sabah this occasion and to bless the Kuwaiti peo- Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and First ple, wishing more prosperity to the State of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Kuwait under the wise leadership of His Minister Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al- Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Sabah who congratulated His Highness on Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. In turn, His Highness the advent of Eid Al-Adha expressing Sheikh Salem Al-Ali sent a cable to His appreciation to His Highness’ efforts Highness Sheikh Nawaf thanking him and throughout the years and his support in congratulating him on Eid Al-Adha. serving the country. His Highness Sheikh Nawaf also His Highness the Deputy Amir also received cables from senior Sheikhs, received congratulatory cables from min- Deputy President of the National Guard isters, governors and senior state officials Sheikh Mishaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- inside and outside Kuwait. In turn, His Sabah, His Highness Sheikh Nasser Highness the Deputy Amir thanked them Mohammad Ahmad Al-Sabah, His Highness all for their sincere wishes and senti- the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al- ments. —KUNA The Kuwaiti Hajj mission’s headquarters.

KUWAIT: Twenty-one officers from various Interior Ministry departments are performing hajj in trips paid by the ministry in appreciation to their hard work and dedication, the ministry’s Relations and Security Media Department announced in a statement. Photo of the day

KUWAIT: A man checks on a sheep loaded on the bed of his pickup truck moments after he bought it from the livestock market in Rai ahead of Eid Al-Adha or ‘Feast of Sacrifice.’ —Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 LOCAL Embassy told Filipinos: Don’t wait for amnesty, take advantage of AVRP Program ‘act of kindness’ on Kuwaiti government’s part

By Ben Garcia anymore (at the immigration detention cen- show up in the airport on the day of their 3) Fingerprinting of TD holders. Applicants ter). So please take advantage of this pro- flights. So this time embassy personnel will will be asked to report to the embassy at KUWAIT: The Philippines Embassy in Kuwait gram, apply now if you are illegal and want be there to assist everyone and make sure the appointed schedule. The embassy will advised its nationals here to take advantage to go back home,” she said. that everyone in the list will be included or transport the group to the Immigration of the ‘Assisted Voluntary Repatriation Last week over 108 undocumented everyone will show up in the airport. We Office in Shuwaikh. Program’ (AVRP) which is being offered by Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), mostly were told that one more no show case will 4) Release of fingerprinting result. The result the Kuwaiti government. The program is not runaway housemaids, were repatriated jeopardize the program and it will be will indicate the status of the applicant’s exclusive for runaway housemaids but it also (without detention) through AVRP in a char- stopped again,” she warned. record in the Kuwait Government system. accepts Article 18 visa holders whose resi- tered flight via Gulf Air. The program is not 5) Verification by Immigration (i e elimina- dency visa has expired or those with considered an amnesty but an act of kind- Process tion of those with criminal cases, police absconding issues. The embassy warned ness on the part of Kuwaiti government for For the Filipinos who want to take advan- absconding cases, travel bans). The list of overstayers or absconders not to wait for an those illegal Filipinos in the country. The pro- tage of the program, here is the step by step qualified candidates will be released. amnesty as the government has shown no gram was also made possible in cooperation process: Applicants will start booking open air tick- indication that it is planning an amnesty any with the Philippine Embassy led by 1) Apply for repatriation at the ATNU. ets and will be on standby for final call. time soon. Ambassador Renato Pedro Villa, Consul Embassy staff in charge will process the 6) The flight will be scheduled by General Raul Dado and Labor Attaché Cesar application and undertake initial assess- Immigration. Ticket will be re-booked. Uncertain Chavez. ment (probable case, current status, avail- Repatriation candidates will be called to Vice Consul Sheina Tesorero, speaking able documents, etc.). If the applicant has report to the ATN Shelter at least 1 week with the Kuwait Times yesterday, advised all 4-6 months no passport, he/she must apply for travel prior to flight. illegal Filipino expatriates in Kuwait to take Tesorero said assisted voluntary repatria- documents. The TD application is free of Not all candidates will be accepted as advantage of this program instead of waiting tion program could take 4-6 months from charge and requires the submission of those with criminal cases may face other for the uncertain amnesty period. application, although the embassy prioritizes three photos (2x2 or 2x2-3/4). legal issues. Also anyone applying for the “Of course we do not know when the and expedites the application of the sick and 2) Embassy will undertake initial verification program and leaving Kuwait in this way will amnesty period will be announced in Kuwait. pregnant. “The program will rely on the com- (system check with MOI, MOJ, be blacklisted and unable to return as com- But while we are waiting for the real amnesty pliance of the applicants. I remembered last Municipality, travel ban check). The pared in the case of amnesty program. The announcement, the AVRP is already here and time the same program was stopped in 2014 Embassy will submit a request for group embassy accepts applicants without fees and KUWAIT: Atty Sheina Tesorero attentive- very clear to us all. We can help you, and now because some applicants who were already fingerprinting schedule for travel docu- travel documents will be issued for those ly listening to questions from listeners is the time because you will not be detained in the list of people to be repatriated did not ment holders with the Immigration-CID. without valid passports. yesterday. —Photo by Ben Garcia

Information Minister congratulates Bahrain PM says leadership on advent of Eid Al-Adha Arab nation can KUWAIT: Minister of Information and behind His Highness the Amir Sheikh safeguard its rights Minister of State for Youth Affairs Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Salman Sabah Salem Al-Humoud Al- Highness the Deputy Amir and Crown MANAMA: Bahrain’s Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Salman Al Khalifa said the Arab nation has the capacity to Al-Sabah, and His Highness the Prime stand with its rights and protect its interests once it leaves Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al- aside its differences and directs its efforts towards the helm Hamad Al-Sabah. of the joint Arab action that protects Arab interests and Sheikh Salman conveyed his con- region from external interference. He said during his meet- gratulations to the nation’s leadership, ing with the dean of the diplomatic corps, Kuwaiti not only on his own behalf, but on the Ambassador to Bahrain Sheikh Azzam Al-Sabah and a behalf of the intellectual, media, and number of Arab ambassadors yesterday that some policies artistic communities as he is also have tried to distract Arab countries with their internal Chairman of the National Council for strife to distract attention from the first issue of the Arabs Arts and Letters. He expressed pride in which is the Palestinian issue, stressing that the Arab sup- Sheikh Salman Al-Humoud Al-Sabah these communities for having champi- port for the state of Palestine will not stop. Sabah congratulated yesterday the oned national unity and loyalty to the He added that what is happening today in Yemen “does Kuwaiti leadership on the advent of the nation’s leadership while rejecting reli- not concern it alone, but it is a plot against the stability of Eid Al-Adha. In a statemen to KUNA, gious intolerance, extremism in the Arab nation in general and to undermine the security Sheikh Salman invoked the lessons and thought and conduct, and terrorism. of the GCC countries in particular.” Meanwhile, Sheikh values imbedded in the meaning of the Furthermore, he recalled in his state- Azzam expressed his thanks and appreciation to the Prime occasion of the Eid Al-Adha as an apt ment the sacrifices given by Kuwaitis MANAMA: Bahrain’s Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa meets the Minister on behalf of the Arab ambassadors, praising the reminder to the people of Kuwait to who lost their lives defending the dean of the diplomatic corps, Kuwaiti Ambassador to Bahrain Sheikh Azzam Al- support extended to them by the Kingdom aimed at uphold the merits of national unity nation and its lofty values. —KUNA Sabah and a number of Arab ambassadors. —KUNA strengthening relations between their countries with the Kingdom of Bahrain. —KUNA THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 LOCAL Kuwait: 2015 Article IV Consultation Concluding Statement of the IMF

Concluding Statement describes the II. Macro-financial exchange reserves, and the capacity of the to higher energy prices more easily if the other indicators, such as both the average preliminary findings of IMF staff at Outlook and Risks banking system to absorb government debt reform is gradual. and distribution of LTV and DSTI ratios, be Athe end of an official staff visit (or without crowding out private credit. compiled to calibrate measures at different ‘mission’), in most cases to a member coun- 5. Investment in infrastructure projects Depending on the rating and terms of bor- 14. The mission is of the view that any phases of the credit cycle. try. Missions are undertaken as part of regu- will support non-oil growth in the medium rowing, issuing foreign currency debt proposal to reform wages should, among lar (usually annual) consultations under term. High government buffers, a strong abroad could constitute an additional other things, cap annual salary increases at 19. Given ICs interconnectedness in the Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, and liquid banking system, and a profitable option that would not affect central bank the inflation rate and contain expansion in financial system, the mission underscores the in the context of a request to use IMF corporate sector, provide the enabling envi- reserves. the wage bill. The government is consider- need for close monitoring of their activities, resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of ronment for growth. A number of contracts ing a reform to standardize the wage struc- strengthened regulatory oversight, and fur- discussions of staff monitored programs, or have been awarded since 2014 in the oil 10. Tighter global liquidity conditions ture in the public sector and provide a ther consolidation to strengthen this sector. as part of other staff monitoring of econom- sector to upgrade fuel and to increase the would impact the Kuwaiti financial sector, framework to limit wage growth. The wage A formal macroprudential coordination ic developments. refining capacity that would have positive government and households, with feedback reform’s aim to simplify the wage structure mechanism encompassing nonbank finan- The authorities have consented to the spillovers on domestic economic and finan- effects on the real economy. While banks and improve the current system is welcome. cial institutions would facilitate more system- publication of this statement. The views cial activity. Non-oil GDP growth is project- have significant direct and indirect expo- To achieve these objectives, the reform atic identification of systemic risks. Key expressed in this statement are those of the ed to remain slightly lower in 2015-16 and sures to real estate and equity markets, they needs to include clauses to limit explicitly improvements would involve: (i) assigning a IMF staff and do not necessarily represent thereafter increase to 4 percent over the have high capital and provisioning to with- public employment growth and arbitrary macroprudential policy mandate and a delin- the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. medium term as the impact of large invest- stand shocks, and the central bank is proac- increases in wages. When designing the eation of its powers; (ii) establishing a formal The decline in oil prices has adversely ments in 2015 takes effect. Average oil pro- tively monitoring and mitigating risks with framework, the authorities should be mind- financial stability coordination committee affected Kuwait’s fiscal and current account duction declined in 2015 and is projected to macroprudential tools. The upward trend in ful of the impact of such a rule on the for- headed by the central bank, comprised of all balances and slowed growth in 2014/15. increase by 2 percent a year in the medium wholesale funding, although low, and the mation of inflation expectations in the financial system regulators, including the High financial buffers provide cushion to term, consistent with the planned new geographical diversification of assets war- economy. Moreover, an escape clause to capital markets authority, the insurance continue to support growth through public investment to increase crude capacity. rants enhanced monitoring to limit poten- hold wage growth below inflation when supervisor, and the Ministry of Finance; (iii) investment and smooth the needed fiscal Overall, GDP growth will recover from 0.3 tial spillover risk from the region. macroeconomic circumstances warrant ensuring appropriate accountability mecha- adjustment over the medium term. percent in 2015 to about 2.8 percent over should be included. nisms; and (iv) elevating to a legal require- Nevertheless, the government needs to the medium term. Average inflation is pro- 11. Stress tests conducted by the mission ment the exchange of information. implement gradual but sustained adjust- jected to increase to 3.4 percent in 2015 and suggest continued overall banking sector 15. Efforts to raise non-hydrocarbon rev- ment of current spending, focusing on will remain broadly stable at that level over resilience. A few banks, however, turn out to enue needs to commence. Introducing a C. Labor Market Reform reducing rigidities in the budget by contin- the medium term, given limited global infla- be more sensitive than others and could business profit tax on the net profits of all and Diversification uing with subsidy reform and introducing tion. require additional capital under severe stress companies operating in Kuwait and simpli- wage reform, and improve the efficiency of scenarios. Given the interlinkages in the fying the current tax structure would poten- 20. Creating the right incentives for capital expenditure to strengthen non-oil 6. The mission’s view is that the peg to a financial system, abrupt changes in market tially increase revenues by KD 500-KD 800 nationals to take up jobs in the private sec- growth and ensure intergenerational equity. basket remains appropriate for the Kuwaiti conditions could pose a risk to the financial million (1.3 to 2.1 percent of GDP). tor is crucial. Current labor market struc- Reforms should be initiated without delay, economy, as it continues to provide a nomi- system and the economy during periods of Implementation of the value added tax tures need to have the right incentive especially in view of the risk of a further sus- nal anchor. The authorities are fully commit- stress. The balance sheets of nonfinancial (VAT), which is also being discussed at the framework to create a skilled domestic tained oil price decline, with greater empha- ted to the current exchange rate regime. As corporations could also be affected, GCC-level, could yield an additional 2-3 per- workforce and lead to a self-sustained sis on labor market and other structural of July 2015, the Kuwaiti dinar depreciated notwithstanding their comfortable levels of cent of non-oil GDP. With the GCC having expansion in employment of nationals in reforms to reduce the economy’s depend- against the U.S. dollar by about 6.8 percent debt servicing capacity. Households would recently approved a VAT framework, Kuwait the private sector. Current policies to keep ence on oil and lay the basis for private sec- (y-o-y), whereas the nominal effective face adverse wealth effects from a decline in should now move ahead expeditiously with unemployment among nationals low tor-led growth. exchange rate appreciated by 3.1 percent stock prices. ICs are facing valuation losses its implementation. through public employment, quotas and The Central Bank of Kuwait has contin- during the same period. Staff’s external from their investments in the local equity permanent wage subsidy programs in the ued to strengthen regulation and supervi- assessment suggests a current account gap market. There is further scope to better iden- 16. The mission welcomes the govern- private sector are neither effective nor sus- sion of the banking system to safeguard of 11 percent of GDP, which could be closed tify and mitigate spillovers through the ment’s decision to move to top-down tainable in the long run. They need to be financial stability, and banks are in a strong by increasing fiscal savings over the medi- financial sector, and to continue to build budgeting beginning FY 2016/17 and to a underpinned by educational and training position to weather the challenges of lower um term. In the future, as the economy buffers of the banking system. Although the medium-term budgeting framework start- reforms and labor policies to improve skills, oil prices.

I. Recent Economic and Financial Developments

1. The economy continued to grow in 2014, albeit at a lower rate, reflecting some slowdown in investment activity. The estimated slowdown in non-oil sector growth to 3.2 percent in 2014 (4.2 percent in 2013), has been driven by moderating activity in a number of sectors, notably, in manufacturing, trade, electricity and water, and transportation sectors. The decline in oil production by 1.4 percent, due partly to the closure of a neutral zone oilfield in the latter half of 2014, reduced overall real GDP growth to zero. Average inflation increased slightly to 3 percent in 2014, and edged up to 3.3 percent in July 2015, driven mainly by housing rents.

2. Financial market conditions are sub- dued. Stock prices declined by 16 percent y- o-y at end-August 2015, reflecting global financial market volatility, and regional geopolitical and domestic economic uncertainties. The average value of real estate transactions has tended to exhibit consider- able volatility, and a correction trend is not evident at this stage. Corporate sector profitability remained stable in the first half of 2015. Growth in banks’ deposits and credit diversifies, more flexibility in the exchange probability of realization of large shocks is ing in fiscal year 2017/18. These reforms, pay and productivity in the private sector. to the private sector edged down to 5.4 per- rate might become appropriate. low, this calls for strengthening resolution besides providing better oversight and dis- Empirical analyses suggest the existence of cent and 4.7 percent, respectively, in June plans for banks, which is work-in-progress. cipline to the budget planning and execu- complementarities between expatriate and 2015 (y-o-y). The central bank kept its dis- 7. The credit outlook for the banking sys- Strengthening the macroprudential policy tion processes, would also build momen- national labor that underscore the impor- count rate, the key benchmark rate for lend- tem is supportive of growth given ample framework, and refining the early warning tum to strengthen capital investment plan- tance of treading gradually in any efforts to ing, unchanged at 2.0 percent to help stim- liquidity. Kuwait’s credit cycle shows that system and toolkit, would enable a more ning and prioritization towards high- cap expatriate labor. ulate private sector credit. credit growth is currently at its trend trajec- systematic assessment and prevention of growth sectors. Besides, an overall Public tory, mitigating concerns of a build-up of systemic risk. In particular, focused attention Financial Management Committee, chaired 21. The authorities recognize the chal- 3. The banking sector is well regulated financial risks from excessive credit expan- on collation of real estate indicators is war- by the Minister of Finance, has been estab- lenges in diversifying the economy and the and has shown resilience to the oil price sion. Continued efforts to develop money ranted to monitor property market risks. lished to guide and supervise public finan- need to improve the business environment shock. The sector had a capital adequacy and debt markets would further strengthen cial management reforms. A decision has and governance indicators. Recent efforts ratio of 16.9 percent according Basel III defi- liquidity management and improve mone- III. Policy Challenges also been made for a full roll-out and include finalizing foreign investment and nition, nonperforming loans ratio of 2.8 per- tary transmission. A. Fiscal Consolidation and Expenditure implementation of the Government SMEs by-laws, and streamlining registration cent, and provisioning ratio of 172 percent Composition Financial Management Information System and licensing procedures for investors. The on a consolidated basis at end-June 2015. 8. Early formulation of a comprehensive during FY 2016/17. establishment of Kuwait Direct Investment Banks’ return on assets and equity long-term fiscal adjustment strategy is nec- 12. Commencing phased fiscal consolida- Promotion Authority has resulted in addi- increased, respectively, to 1.1 percent and essary. The government’s fiscal balance tion without delay is needed to close the fis- B. Strengthening Financial Stability tional FDI into Kuwait. International experi- 8.9 percent (1.0 percent and 7.4 percent in (according to government presentation) is cal gap, reduce fiscal vulnerabilities and ence suggests that, in addition to creating 2013), reflecting lower provision expenses, projected to remain in deficit over the medi- bring the fiscal stance closer to benchmark 17. The CBK has strengthened regula- an economic environment favorable for and profit growth of subsidiaries and um term. After transferring revenues to the levels indicated by intergenerational equity tions to safeguard financial stability. Banks doing business, Kuwait needs to implement branches aboard. Investment companies FGF, the central government fiscal deficit considerations. Delays in adjustment would are under Basel III regulations for capital, policies to encourage firms to expand (ICs) combined were profitable in 2014, but would remain in double digits as a share of result in a worsening fiscal position that including a framework for DSIBs, liquidity, domestic operations and develop export one-third of the companies recorded losses. GDP over the medium term, implying a would require a larger adjustment in the and leverage. In the real estate sector, markets, enhance infrastructure, and sup- The banking system’s exposure to ICs dimin- cumulative deficit of KD23 billion between future, especially if oil prices fall further. The banks are subject to loan-to-value ratio port workers in acquiring the necessary ished to 2.8 percent of banks’ total lending, 2015-20. The government’s high financial mission underscores the importance of not since November 2013, to a segment of skills and education. amid ICs ongoing downsizing of balance buffers and ample borrowing space will only a gradual pace of adjustment, in view of individuals who purchase or develop resi- sheets. enable it to comfortably finance the short- Kuwait’s large buffers and oil and gas dential property, besides debt-service-to- 22. The corporate sector in Kuwait fall. Nevertheless, to maintain confidence in reserves, but also for it to fall mainly on cur- income ratio (DSTI) that already existed. appears well positioned to weather shocks, 4. Lower oil prices caused the fiscal posi- the economy, preserve buffers, and reduce rent spending to create space for maintain- including from the recent fall in oil prices, tion to deteriorate sharply in 2014/15. In the fiscal risks, fiscal adjustment plans should ing high capital expenditure, which has a 18. Macroprudential tools can help miti- with most sectors displaying comfortable government’s presentation, after mandato- be expeditiously formulated and communi- stronger impact on growth. Prioritizing capi- gate potential risks posed by banks’ high levels of debt servicing capacity. Ex-post ry transfers to the Future Generations Fund cated, and the adjustment initiated. Total tal expenditure through better appraisal of exposures to the real estate sector. Some profitability (return on assets) has remained (FGF) of 25 percent of total revenues, and fiscal adjustment of about 12 percent of investment projects, by introducing a sys- weakening of real estate activity appears stable but at low levels, particularly when excluding investment income, the fiscal bal- GDP will be needed over the longer term to tematic ex-post evaluation of projects, and underway in the commercial and invest- compared with other countries, including ance declined to a deficit of 4.4 percent of achieve a fiscal balance that is in line with by effectively implementing the anti-corrup- ment segments, but the residential real GCC peers. Companies appear undervalued; GDP in 2014/15 from a surplus of 11.7 per- intergenerational equity and would also be tion framework assumes importance. estate segment reportedly remains firm. lower price to earnings ratios than in peer cent in 2013/14. sufficient to close the estimated external The latter is regulated by DSTI and maxi- countries may point to weaker confidence Under the IMF presentation, which does current account gap. 13. The government should take advan- mum loan limits. While investment and in Kuwait’s business environment that the not take into account transfers to the FGF tage of current low global energy prices to commercial real estate financing is less reg- authorities are seeking to improve. Further and includes IMF staff estimate of invest- 9. The choice of fiscal financing should strengthen efforts to reform domestic ener- ulated, rules regarding the treatment of real deepening of asset markets to provide comment income, the overall fiscal balance also weigh the pros and cons of various options gy prices. A gradual phasing-out of energy estate collateral, which encouraged this panies alternative means of financing and narrowed sharply to a surplus of only 17.3 to determine the optimal mix. Drawdown subsidies (estimated at 7.2 percent of GDP in type of lending are being phased out. investment, improving the investment cli- percent, compared to a surplus of 34.7 per- from the General Reserve Fund (GRF), as 2015), with a social safety net and other miti- However, it is important to ensure that mate in the economy, including by reducing cent in 2013/14. The government increased was done in 2014/15, would be consistent gating measures and a well-designed com- macroprudential policy measures are costs of doing business in Kuwait, increas- diesel and kerosene prices and reduced with the GRF’s role as the Treasurer as well munication strategy to get the buy-in of the reviewed constantly to ensure that they do ing privatization efforts, strengthening cor- subsidies on aviation fuel effective January as the stabilization fund. There may also be middle class, would generate substantial not exacerbate any property price correc- porate governance, establishing bankruptcy 2015, with estimated savings of 0.3 percent merit in issuing domestic debt, which could savings. In the longer-term, energy price tion, while preempting the buildup of procedures, and better data availability to of GDP annually, reduced medical help catalyze the development of a liquid reform is expected to benefit growth by excessive risks related to real estate expo- investors, would contribute to better per- allowances of Kuwaitis and relatives travel- local-currency debt market. However, any increasing efficiency in the economy and sures. In addition, heightened supervisory formance of the corporate sector. ling abroad for treatment, as well as travel issuance of domestic debt would need to creating space for higher public and private vigilance needs to be maintained to ensure The IMF team values the candid and and other allowances of government consider the cost of debt relative to the investment. One-off effects on inflation that real estate exposures are appropriately comprehensive discussions with the employees. The current account surplus fell expected risk and return on the general should be manageable. Productive activities classified and adequately provisioned. The Kuwaiti authorities, and would like to to 31.2 percent of GDP in 2014 from 39.5 reserve fund, and more importantly, its more sensitive to energy costs, particularly mission encourages the authorities to con- express its sincere gratitude to them for percent in 2013. impact on the central bank’s foreign the transport sector, would be able to adjust struct real estate indices and suggests that their close cooperation. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 LOCAL

PM conveys Amir’s Eid Foreign Minister congratulates greetings to pilgrims Saudi Arabia on national day KUWAIT: His Highness the Prime Minister Al-Uthaina, His Highness the Premier also Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah conveyed the Eid congratulations of His yesterday conveyed His Highness the Amir Highness the Deputy Amir and the Crown NEW YORK/KUWAIT: Kuwait’s First the UN on the occasion of the Kingdom’s Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah’s Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign national day late last night. He recalled congratulations to Kuwaiti pilgrims in Makkah Sabah. His Highness the Prime Minister Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al- how Saudi Arabia has been offering dif- on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha. In a phone call checked on the safety and health of all Hamad Al-Sabah has congratulated ferent kinds of facilities to pilgrims who with head of Kuwaiti Hajj mission, Assistant Kuwaiti pilgrims and inquired about facilita- Saudi Arabia on the occasion of its were performing their rituals during the undersecretary for public relations at the tions offered by the Hajj mission in Makkah National Day, wishing the Kingdom last- Hajj season. Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Khulaif and other holy sites. — KUNA ing prosperity. Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled also com- “I would like to congratulate the mended Saudi Arabia’s role at the region- Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King al, Arab, Islamic and international levels Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Crown Prince vis-a-vis the recent Israeli escalation and the Deputy Crown Prince, the Saudi against Al-Aqsa Mosque, citing contacts government and people on the occasion made by King Salman with world leaders of this joyful day, and also on the occa- to put an end to the Israeli practices. sion of Eid Al-Adha,” Sheikh Sabah Al- Meanwhile, National Assembly Khaled said in press remarks. Sheikh Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanem sent a Sabah Al-Khaled, in New York for the UN cable of congratulations to Saudi Arabia’s General Assembly (UNGA) meetings, was Speaker of Shura Council Dr Abdullah bin speaking on the sidelines of a reception Sheikh Sabah Marzouq Al-Ghanem Mohammad Al-Sheikh on the occasion held by the Saudi Permanent Mission to Al-Khaled Al-Sabah of his country’s National Day. — KUNA Medical staff at all malls during Eid

By A Saleh Legislation committee, it was returned as it was MOH to reduce medical errors after six months of discussion. The Ministry of Health (MOH) stressed that KUWAIT: The Ministry of Health medical’s emer- building a clinical simulation center in Kuwait gencies manager Dr Tareq Al-Jassar stressed ICM calls to end Syrians suffering would help reduce medical errors by six to seven that the ministry was ready for the Eid vacation The Islamic Constitutional Movement (ICM) times through constant extensive training. In this with a comprehensive plan to provide airborne yesterday congratulated HH the Amir, HH the regard, MOH’s assistant undersecretary for assist- A firefighter tackles flames at a water tanker in Mina Abdullah. ambulance services as well as special field clinics Crown Prince and the Kuwaiti people on Eid Al- ing medical services affairs Dr Jamal Al-Harbi said at all shopping malls and recreation locations Adha. Speaking on the occasion, ICM secretary that the ministry formed a committee to study around Kuwait. “Clinic will be deployed at the general, engineer Mohammed Al-Aleem training courses and training assessment meth- Dangers of fireworks Grand Mosque, in various TEC facilities, the stressed that the Hajj season was an occasion ods and made agreements with some specialized Avenues, Marina Mall, 360 Mall and all highways,” full of moral lessons such as the importance of international centers to help build the center. he explained. fraternity, cooperation and communication “The ministry is currently working on training the during Eid holidays Meanwhile, Kuwait Municipality announced amongst Muslims. center staff on operating the center,” he added, that emergency teams began tours at the main He also urged all world leaders to seriously pointing out that the center would mainly focus European man dies in elevator shaft fall sheep market in Rai to maintain prices control work on putting an end to the sufferings of on training paramedics, medical emergency tech- and prevent ‘random slaughter’ of livestock on Muslims in Syria, Burma, Iraq, Yemen, Palestine nicians and nurses working in various maternity By Hanan Al-Saadoun The body was recovered and handed to Eid Al-Adha. The municipality had allocated 18 and elsewhere. or intensive care unit (ICU) departments. criminal evidence, after two hours of work. temporary slaughterhouses around the country, KUWAIT: The Director of Public Relations to work alongside the main slaughterhouses on and Information at Kuwait Fire Service Bootlegger caught the first day of the Muslim holiday known as Directorate Colonel Khalil Al-Amir warned A non-Kuwaiti man was arrested in Jahra ‘Feast of Sacrifice.’ against accidents that occur and increase while selling 12 Red Label whiskey bottles during the Eid holidays, especially due to to an undercover agent for KD 900, said Eclipse prayer children playing with fireworks, left unat- security sources, noting that on searching a The Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs recently called for performing the eclipse prayer tended in hallways or other areas and using farmhouse he owns, narcotics detectives in all its 52 mosques located in the six Kuwaiti elevators by themselves. found 220 more bottles. The suspect con- governorates. In this regard, the ministry’s assis- Al-Amir warned that parents must make fessed that he had intended selling the tant undersecretary for mosques’ affairs, Waleed sure that gas cylinders in kitchens are liquor during the Eid holiday, when Al-Shuaib said that call for this prayer was part of secured after use and check the hoses peri- demand is higher, and that he usually sold traditions of the prophet (PBUH) when he urged odically to make sure that there are no it for KD 100+ per bottle. Muslims to pray to Allah on such an occasion leaks. He said lifts must be maintained reg- that manifests one of Allah’s signs. ularly to avoid malfunctions, and in new Al-Shuaib noted that the eclipse is forecast buildings only companies approved by the to take place in the period of 4:06 -4:41 am fire directorate should be hired. Al-Amir next Monday and that a directive had been said all fire centers are working with full already circulated to all mosques urging them capacity during Eid time to protect the to call worshipers to perform the prayer before national security against accidents and Al-Fajr prayer. fires. In related incidents, a fire broke out in a Greater security water tanker in Mina Abdullah area MP Saleh Ashour said that Kuwait is going prompting the fire center there to respond. through new political changes and that it was The fire was contained and put out in a time for the government and parliament to short time, due to the quick response. No expand security priorities that cope with the cur- injuries were reported. And in Midan rent developments and eliminate all attempts to Hawally, a European man fell inside the ele- create tumults amongst Kuwaitis. “The recent vator shaft of a building. Salmiya fire center security and terrorist incidents such the bomb- responded and found the victim fell from A bootlegger arrested with 220 liquor ing of the Imam Al-Sadeq mosque and the [dis- the sixth to first floor and died from the fall. bottles in Jahra yesterday. covery of the] Abdaly cell as well as traffic accidents and daily youth scuffles in various shopping malls that have been claiming lives for triv- More than 100 ial reasons all made citizens feel insecure,” he warned, urging the government to launch more awareness campaigns and impose stricter secu- drunks arrested rity and accountability measures.

By Meshaal Al-Enezi Construction permits Jaber University almost ready Kuwait Municipality’s acting director Member of the parliamentary educational KUWAIT: Mubarak Al-Kabeer detectives Ahmed Al-Manfouhi said that the municipali- affairs committee MP Humoud Al-Hamdan recently launched a widescale inspec- ty started handing over construction permis- stressed that the committee was about to finish tion campaign raiding several suspi- sions to 133 citizens who own land plots in discussing the Jaber University issue and had cious spots in Sabah Al-Salem area, said Sabahiya. “The delay was due to some already found that its decree needed amend- ment. “Four ministers have been in office over security sources, noting that the raids impediments such as private gardens and KUWAIT: A team from the Interior Ministry’s Relations and Security Media Department the past two years and have been trying to solve resulted in arresting a hundred men park shades,” Manfouhi explained. Notably, visited the Mulla Saud Al-Saqr Elementary School for boys recently as part of its ongoing the problem,” he remarked, noting that though and women under the influence of the Public Authority for Housing Welfare had campaign to spread road safety awareness among students. alcohol. been blaming the municipality for the delay. the decree was referred to the Fatwa and Arab Parliament condemns Israeli aggression

CAIRO: The Arab Parliament’s President Ahmad Al-Jarwan condemned yesterday international silence towards Israeli aggressions against the Palestinians. The Arab Parliament will address all international bodies and organizations to act swiftly to end daily crimes committed by the Israelis, Jarwan said in a press statement. Ahmad Al-Jarwan The latest of these crimes was the killing of a young Palestinian male and female on Tuesday. Jarwan said the recent crime, which he described as “an ethnic cleansing,” is another violation against humanity. Any Israeli justification to these crimes is only a flimsy excuse to allow the Israelis to continue their aggressions against the Palestinians in order to strip them out of their legitimate rights, he pointed out. — KUNA Albanian Pres sends Amir Eid greetings

TIRANA: Albanian President Bujar Nishani sent the following letter to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha:

“Your Highness, I would like to wholeheartedly thank you for your wishes and greetings conveyed to me on the occasion of Eid Al Adha, which I reciprocate with a great deal of pleasure. On the occasion of Eid Al Adha, I as well pray to the Almighty God to bestow upon Your Highness plenty of health and happiness and further prosperity and development to the friendly Kuwaiti people. Please accept, Your Highness, the expression of my highest consideration.” THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 FROM THE ARABIC PRESS

Crime Al-Jarida Report Do elephants fly? Liquor trader busted KUWAIT: Farwaniya police arrested an Asian man with 94 bottles of local and imported liquor, following a 30-minute By Dr Hassan Jouhar chase. A security source said the man was seen placing o elephants fly? The story of this question is a bags inside his car in Kheitan, then when approached by State very indicative political joke that goes like: A police, he fled. Police chased him and asked for back-up biology teacher was once explaining the differ- and finally the man was caught and arrested. A total of 24 D ence between an animal and a bird to his students and bottles of imported liquor and 70 bottles of locally-made asked if an elephant, for instance, could fly. One of the alcohol were found with the man. In another case, Ahmadi students agreed, making the teacher angry with his police caught an Asian man with 32 bottles of liquor in Burden answer. “Who is the idiot who told you so?” the teacher Fahaheel area. angrily asked. The boy answered that he heard the president say so. The teacher gets embarrassed and responds, saying: “Indeed, dear boys. An elephant can Grenade found in Wafra farm fly, but relatively low!” (End of story) A citizen found a hand grenade and a bomb while dig- A few days ago, and though he had been travelling ging in his Wafra farm. Ahmadi police arrived at the worldwide shaking hands with all those involved in scene, and found out they were leftovers from the shedding Syrian blood promising them that Bashar Al- 1990/91 Iraqi Invasion era. Asaad should immediately step down and stressing that there would be negotiations or deals with him, the US Secretary of State John Kerry looked more like that Fire in Jahra coward teacher and said that the Syrian president must Jahra occupational fire center dealt with a fire that not step down immediately. He is now begging Russia engulfed a vehicle while parked at the Jahra municipality and Iran to convince Assad to come to the negotiation parking lot, and their interference helped keep the fire

Al-Jarida table. from spreading to the shades. Meanwhile, in another case, Politics’ world is filthy in nature and this filthiness is firemen battled a fire in a car thieves had stolen, drove usually justified by intelligence, national interests or the recklessly then abandoned when it caught fire. art of the possible. Poor Syria is the best modern example of this filthiness. Why, then, after this peaceful country disintegrated and was totally destroyed and its peo- Sorcerer caught at border ple reached Europe and Australia as political refugees Nuwaiseeb border outlet officials noticed a passenger (future European nationals), that the US seeks help who became extremely nervous each time one of them Al-Anbaa from its Russian and Iranian rivals to reach a political approach him. When he was asked for his passport, he solution? became more nervous. So authorities decided to A political solution is surely the only guarantee to search him. He was found to be in possession of vari- protect what is left of the state and people of Syria. ous tools of ‘sorcery’ and other illicit materials. The man The thirsty city Syrian territories have been a battlefield for the new was sent to concerned authorities. world order where regional and international powers compete to enhance their political statuses and univer- By Dr Saleh Al-Ojairi sal powers. Syria has become a model of globalization Taxi driver mugged wars. Instead of face-to-face confrontations between A Bangladeshi taxi driver in his fifties was mugged by three ack in the early 1950s, an Egyptian journalist 1914, he imported a water desalination machine form countries and the possibility that mighty powers lose control over wars and get involved in nuclear and WMD people in Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh. The three asked the driver to visited Kuwait for a while and when he India, but its operation stalled because of some horrors, these countries are informatively, politically, take them to Omariya. They got into the taxi and then set returned home, he wrote an article titled ‘The demands made by the company operating it. on the driver. One of the men in the back seat grabbed him B economically and even militarily fighting in a small spot Thirsty City’. It was a very suitable title because drink- We finally struck fresh underground water and around the throat while another pulled a knife, meanwhile in a way that has world war features. a third person put his hand in the suspect’s pocket and ing water was direly scarce at that time. The only started desalinating enough seawater despite our And now that everybody is certain that the Syrian took his wallet which contained KD 75. They also took his sources of fresh drinking water wasteful and extravagant con- war cannot be brought to an end because of its many car keys but escaped on foot. were wells in Shamiya, Kaifan, sumption rates. Well, in com- dangerous and complicated equilibriums and that the Hawally and Sulaibiya, in addi- The amount of water parison to the past, the sole beneficiary of its continuation are the terrorist tion to some brought from the amount of water used in a sin- groups with a religious nature, the US-led West has to think more reasonably and even make some political School office robbed Shatt Al-Arab by primitive used in a single toilet gle toilet flush nowadays used dhows, and people used to to suffice an entire family for a concessions, even if they were embarrassing, and con- A school principal in Andalus told police that an fess that ‘an elephant can fly’! crowd around them on arrival day and night. Nevertheless, unknown person entered her offices and stole acces- flush nowadays used to Russia’s recent decision to join the battle with sories including perfume. She said she did not have any to get their share. We also used we see that instead of bending weapons and troops surprised everybody including the suspect in mind. to await rainfall to store rainwa- suffice an entire family down to pick it up, some Americans, and despite American dissatisfaction in the ter and use it later on. housemaids nowadays may beginning, US diplomacy was in an awkwardly embar- Bringing water from the for a day and night wash a straw away out of the rassing position because it has been leading an interna- Shatt Al-Arab started in 1909 house by using water hoses, tional alliance for over a year to fight IS and its likes, but Citizen charged with battery at the same time, refuses that Russians fight IS directly. Hawally prosecutor ordered that a citizen who attacked a and lasted for long years. It then developed a little bit wasting what is at least worth KD 3 of water on it. For Therefore, and despite its bitterness, the US’ best option beautician who works for him be charged with battery and when a company was founded to transport water, but God’s sake, have mercy on the government and the is to cooperate with Moscow instead of confronting it. causing extreme harm. The Filipina who works in a salon he it was barely enough. Sheikh Mubarak the Great was people of Kuwait! Regardless of the Western policies’ contradictions owns worked all week without a day off. He then refused to very concerned with water scarcity, and thus bought — Translated by Kuwait Times and vicissitudes, the question is why is it that our Arab pay her when she asked for her salary and instead attacked a special dhow to bring water from Shatt Al-Arab. In countries have always been a testing ground? And why, her and cut her with a knife. — Al-Anbaa whenever an experiment fails, experimenters baldly and shamelessly withdraw, even if the experiments cost Cabinet considers limits millions of fatalities, billions-worth of losses and total on expat residency numbers destruction? In my opinion, the only reason for this is our own culture that encourages our enemies to and length of stay slaughter and destroy us, because we are the people who teach children that ‘an elephant can fly upon high- KUWAIT: The Cabinet is considering a mechanism submit- er orders’! ted by the Statistic General Directorate to deal with the — Translated by Kuwait Times defects of the population structure. The mechanism includes procedures and steps to activate the recommen- dations of the higher committee to examine ways to reduce the demographic imbalance between locals and foreigners. There are more than 4 million residents of Kuwait but only around 1.5 million citizens. Some of the possible mechanisms include granting three months grace periods for absconders to adjust their status with increasingly absconding fines to KD 5 per day. Other possible regulations may include placing a maximum limit on the stay of expatriates. The plan also calls for activating the fingerprint system at borders to prevent those facing a travel ban from exiting the country and those blacklisted from returning to Kuwait. It also calls for adopting the quota system to set a maximum ceiling of labor. It also calls for halting all unli- censed activities while encouraging citizens to get into productive sectors. — Al-Anbaa

More than 33,000 Dr Ali Al-Omair absent from Abdally farm government lands to be work on Tuesday freed by KOC KUWAIT: Tuesday seemed to be an unofficial holiday in many government offices and departments as well as colleges and schools, ahead of Eid Al-Adha holi- KUWAIT: Dr Ali Al-Omair, Oil Minister and State days which started officially started yesterday. Minister for National Assembly Affairs, denied An informed source at the Civil Service reports that an unnamed amount of money had Commission (CSC) said the number of state employ- been allocated to reclaim farms in Abdaly area. He ees who asked for emergency or sick leaves during said the ministry is accounting for the lands needed the period that proceeded the holiday of Eid Al-Adha by Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) in order to release exceeded 33,000, and the largest percentage of those them, in a way that will not hinder operations, then are administrative staff at the Education Ministry. The there will be suitable solutions so not to harm farm- source said announcement of citizens who are candi- ers who spent time, money and efforts in reclaiming dates for jobs will be made until after the Eid holiday lands for food security. because a large number of the proceeding batch did He said the law calls for compensating land own- not finish processing of their papers. — Al-Anbaa ers concerned with drilling, and limited it to the buildings and farms. “We are now determining lands and locations KOC needs in the northern area for discovery and Offensive imam drilling for oil and natural gas,” Omair said. Omair said when this stage is complete, lands will be freed faces four charges in a way that will not delay search and production in the area, according to a mechanism that will be determined later. KUWAIT: High ranking sources said the prosecution When asked about expectations of the received a statement from state security detectives International Monetary Fund (IMF) that oil prices will against Secretary General of the Islamic Alliance Hussein not see an increase in the short run, and that it Al-Maatouq based on a sermon he gave that included vio- needs years to reach $70 per barrel, he said “there is lations of state security laws and national unity. The no doubt that what the IMF said expresses the tech- sources added that state security detectives asked the nical views within the current aspects.” prosecution to question Maatouq, and expected this to He said that expectations regarding oil prices are take place in the few coming days over four charges: built on indicators of the international economic Spreading false news, instigation and publication of infor- growth and daily oil production in addition to sup- mation that aims at compromising the social order of the ply and demand, adding that there is slowness in country, violating laws of national unity and violating pub- the international growth, in south east Asia, particu- lic order. They said the prosecution will listen to the state- larly in the economies of China, Japan and India, and ment of the state security officer, then issue an arrest war- “whenever these countries’ economies improve, oil rant or summons orders. The prosecution will question prices improve gradually.”— Al Rai Maatouq over the Friday sermon in which he spoke about suspects in the Abdaly cell. — Al-Jarida THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 Mumbai’s renowned Pope gets warm welcome at White House by Obama tiffin carriers adapt to changing lifestyles Page 9 Page 11

MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech during the opening ceremony of the Moscow Grand Mosque in Moscow yesterday. — AFP Putin opens huge new mosque in Moscow $170m project took a decade to complete MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow ues of Islam.” The turquoise-domed mosque can host over mated that some 1,800 Russian citizens are fighting for Russia could be looking to join the fight alongside its ally yesterday opened one of the biggest mosques in Europe, 10,000 worshippers and is one of the largest in the coun- the radical group. Putin in his speech lashed out at President Bashar Al-Assad. Turkey and Russia stand on warning against the lure of jihadists as the government try that will help to serve Russia’s estimated 20 million jihadist groups for their “attempts to cynically exploit reli- opposing sides over the crisis in Syria, with Ankara fierce- frets over its citizens fighting for the Islamic State group. Muslims. gious feeling for political ends.” “We see what is happen- ly backing the rebels trying to oust Assad. Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Palestinian pres- The $170 million project, which took a decade to coming in the Middle East where terrorists from the so-called Turkey is currently waging what Ankara describes as a ident Mahmud Abbas were the guests of honor at the plete, caused controversy over the destruction of an earli- Islamic State group are compromising a great world reli- two-pronged “war on terror” against both IS and the unveiling of the 20,000-square meter mosque in the er mosque that stood on the site. Moscow-which has bat- gion, compromising Islam, in order to sow hate,” he said. Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), although so far air strikes Russian capital. tled an Islamic insurgency in its volatile southern Putin was later set to meet Erdogan for talks that were have overwhelmingly focused on bases of the Kurdish “This mosque will become an extremely important Caucasus region-is worried about the pull of extremist expected to focus on the Syrian conflict, as the West frets militants in northern Iraq. Moscow has been on a diplo- spiritual centre for Muslims in Moscow and the whole groups, especially Islamic State jihadists fighting in Syria about a buildup of Russian forces in the war-torn country. matic push to try to get Western and regional powers Russia,” Putin said in a televised speech. “It will be a source and Iraq. The United States says Moscow has recently sent involved in a coalition against IS to join forces with for education, spreading humanist ideas and the true val- Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev last week esti- troops, tanks and fighter jets to Syria, sparking fears that Assad. — AFP Father of Saudi youth on death Hungary PM rejects Merkel’s row pleads king for clemency ‘moral imperialism’ in crisis BAD STAFFELSTEIN: Hungarian Prime well as separating asylum-seekers from “eco- DUBAI: The father of a Saudi youth facing execution Minister Viktor Orban yesterday rejected nomic migrants” before they reach the pass- for taking part in pro-reform protests appealed to King what he called German Chancellor Angela port-free Schengen zone. Salman yesterday to spare his life. The sentence Merkel’s “moral imperialism” as he outlined Orban said he would also press fellow against Ali Al-Nimr, only 17 when he was arrested in his own rival plan to tackle Europe’s migrant EU leaders to agree on a common list of February 2012, has drawn international condemna- crisis. When asked what he expected from safe countries of origin to which migrants tion over his young age at the time and allegations Merkel while Europe grapples with an influx can be returned, and to pitch in one per- that he was tortured into making a confession. of asylum-seekers, the hardline leader cent of their EU income and their EU contri- It is the latest case to highlight the death penalty grinned: “I have a long list.” butions to an emergency fund. and human rights in the Islamic kingdom, which Orban accused Merkel of trying to He urged the bloc to work closely with Amnesty International says is one of the world’s most impose her vision of an open EU on the rest key non-EU countries playing a key role in prolific executioners. In an interview with AFP, of the bloc. “The most important thing is that the crisis such as Russia and Turkey, and the Mohammed Al-Nimr said he hoped the king would there should be no moral imperialism,” he creation of a global system of migrant “con- save his son. “We hope that the king will not sign” the said during a visit to the southern German tingents” for countries to take in. execution order, Nimr said, after Saudi Arabia’s highest state of Bavaria. Orban, speaking ahead of an Overriding opposition from eastern court confirmed the death sentence, leaving his son’s EU summit in Brussels, said his country had a European states, including Hungary, interi- fate in the hands of the king. “democratic right” to a different approach. or ministers approved plans Tuesday that Nimr warned that if his son is put to death the The summit takes place amid a growing require countries to take their share of the minority Shiite community could react violently, east-west split within the bloc after ministers hundreds of thousands of migrants who something he does not want to happen. “We don’t forced through a controversial deal Tuesday have overwhelmed states such as Greece need that; we don’t need even one drop of blood,” he to share out 120,000 refugees. “I don’t doubt and Italy. said. The youth is a nephew of Nimr Al-Nimr, a Shiite Germany’s right to define its moral obliga- The deal was widely seen as a victory for religious leader who is also on death row. tions for itself. They can decide if they accept Berlin in the German media, just as Mohammed Al-Nimr, a Dammam businessman, every refugee or not... (but) that should only Germany expects up to one million asylum- was in Riyadh to visit his jailed brother for the Muslim RIYADH: Mohammed Al-Nimr, the father of Ali Al-Nimr, a Saudi youth facing execution for taking part in pro-reform protests speaks during an interview — AFP be compulsory for them,” Orban said. “We are seekers this year and has been clamouring feast of sacrifice, Eid Al-Adha, which falls today. Hungarians however, we cannot think with for a “fair” distribution of migrants through- Nimr Al-Nimr was a driving force behind demon- sword, sometimes in public. and their execution, are incompatible with Saudi German minds. Hungary should have the out the bloc. In response to the influx, strations that began four years ago in Eastern France’s foreign ministry appealed yesterday for a Arabia’s international obligations,” the experts said. right to control the impact of a mass migra- Hungary has closed its border with Serbia Province. Most of Sunni-dominated Saudi Arabia’s stay of execution and expressed concern about the Mohammed Al-Nimr said his last monthly visit with his tion,” he said. “The Hungarian people don’t and introduced draconian laws to punish Shiites live in the east, and have complained of mar- case of the youth, “condemned to death even though son in the Dammam jail came three weeks ago, and want this, we ask that the wishes of those crossing into the country illegally. ginalization. he was a minor at the time of the incident,” a he expects to see him again in a couple of days. “I am Hungarians be respected.” Orban said yesterday that he would only spokesman said. France opposes the death penalty in sure that his morale is very high, and he is strong,” the consider voluntary measures to accept asy- ‘High morale’ all circumstances, the spokesman added. On Tuesday, father said, adding that the family is buoyed by the Global contingents lum-seekers. “Quotas and contingents are Ali Al-Nimr’s father admitted that his son, then a UN rights experts also called for Ali Al-Nimr’s life to be outpouring of global support on social media. Ali Al- Orban revived recent proposals in what two different things. We reject the former, high school student, had joined thousands of other spared. A statement said the youth was reportedly tor- Nimr is one of six sons and daughters in his family. he called a six-point plan to resolve the crisis. but are ready to discuss the latter,” he said. people in protest. But he said he is innocent of numer- tured, coerced into a confession and denied adequate Mohammed Al-Nimr said his son and Nimr Al-Nimr, They included persuading Greece, one of the Orban was invited to Germany by one of ous other charges including burglary, attacking police access to a lawyer before and during a trial that did are among eight Shiites who have exhausted all court EU countries on the front lines of the migrant the most vocal critics of Merkel’s migrant and using a Molotov cocktail. The court sentenced Ali not meet international standards. appeals in connection with death sentences imposed influx, to hand over control of its borders to policies within her conservative bloc, Al-Nimr to death but gave no further details. “Any judgment imposing the death penalty upon after the protests. Ali Al-Nimr is the youngest of those EU countries willing to help police them, as Bavarian premier Horst Seehofer. — AFP Execution in the kingdom is usually carried out with a persons who were children at the time of the offence, eight, he said. — AFP THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 INTERNATIONAL Yemen’s returned leader works to stamp authority

ADEN: Yemen’s President Abedrabbo government-run Saba news agency report- Hadi would remain in Aden for a few days trolled capital in February after escaping The Houthis have since lost five southern Mansour Hadi worked yesterday to restore ed. Under the cover of Saudi-led coalition air before heading to New York to attend the house arrest under the Houthis, and took provinces to pro-government forces, who on his authority after returning from six months strikes, loyalists have battled the Houthis UN General Assembly which runs until shelter in Aden. But the following month he September 13 launched a major offensive in of exile with a vow to liberate the country alongside the Popular Resistance volunteer October 6. was forced to abandon the southern city oil-rich Marib province east of the capital, from Shiite Houthi rebels. Hadi’s first act was force, southern separatists, Islamist militants and go into exile in Riyadh as the Houthis with thousands of Saudi and Emirati soldiers to chair a meeting of cabinet members and Sunni tribes, in a makeshift alliance. Opens road to Sanaa advanced, and soon afterwards the Saudi- deployed on the ground. But the Iranian- already back in the southern port city of Hadi, who is recognized by the interna- Analysts view the return of Hadi as most- led coalition launched an air war against the backed rebels, who still control much of Aden, which had been the embattled tional community, flew in late Tuesday ly symbolic in the short term. “It’s a signal to rebels. northern and central Yemen, appear to have leader’s last refuge before he fled to Saudi aboard a Saudi military aircraft that landed all the actors, in the Houthi-camp or anti- Much of Aden has been reduced to rub- slowed the loyalist advance. Arabia in March. He instructed the ministers at an airbase adjoining the civilian airport in Houthi, that the legitimate government is ble by ferocious fighting between govern- Pro-Hadi forces have also been locked in to focus on basic services such as water, Aden. The president promised the Yemeni back,” said Mathieu Guidere, a professor and ment forces supported by coalition air fierce fighting to retake Yemen’s third city electricity, housing, healthcare and security people that the Houthis, who hailed from Middle East specialist at the University of strikes and Houthis backed by renegade sol- Taez, which is seen as a crucial gateway to for ordinary Yemenis in the impoverished the mountainous north, would be driven Toulouse in France. “This will not in itself diers loyal to ousted president Ali Abdullah Sanaa. The United Nations says around 5,000 and war-battered country. from the capital Sanaa. change much on the ground but it will open Saleh. In July, bolstered by training and people have been killed and 25,000 wound- On the security front, the 70-year-old “The return to the capital Sanaa will up the road to Sanaa for the coalition, at the equipment provided by the coalition, the ed, many of them civilians, since late March president stressed the need to integrate come soon after the liberation of all cities official invitation of the sitting government,” loyalists retook Aden, enabling Prime in Yemen. The UN aid chief has called the members of the Popular Resistance pro-gov- and provinces,” from the hands of militias, he he said. Minister Khaled Bahah and several ministers scale of human suffering in Yemen “almost ernment militia into the regular army, the said in a statement. The presidency said Hadi, a southerner, fled the rebel-con- to return last week. incomprehensible”. — AFP

Amid migrant mobilization, Turkey is hardening rules

ISTANBUL: As refugees probe the land Muthana Al-Abdullah, a 22-year-old engi- route between Turkey and the European neering student from Aleppo, told the AP at Union, Ankara has begun enforcing long- Esenler. Three bus company managers at dormant rules on Syrians’ travel, in part over the station confirmed that they had been concerns about how the flow is affecting instructed to refuse tickets to Syrians. On the country’s image, according to a govern- Sunday - by which time the crowds were ment document obtained by The Associated leaving - one of the managers said rules had Press and interviews with officials and been relaxed again. migrants. Ankara has been extraordinarily gener- So far the moves appear ad hoc and ous to people from Syria in the years since aimed only at preventing refugees from civil war broke out there. Turkey hosts reaching the Turkish frontier city of Edirne, roughly 2 million refugees, a number that where hundreds are staging a sit-in near the far outstrips all neighboring European coun- Greek border. But one academic said it was tries put together and has turned the coun- a sign of a more-determined effort by try into the world’s No. 1 host of refugees Turkey to get a handle on the country’s overall. But even though the Turks have massive refugee population. spent some $7.6 billion feeding and hous- “In the case of Syrians, this is the first ing the influx, many struggle to make ends time they are trying to be strict on move- meet. ment,” said Ahmet Icduygu, who directs the “There is no future for my my children Migration Research Center at Istanbul’s Koc here at all,” said Mohammed Ali Al-Baya, a University. “They’re clamping down.” The 40-year-old cell phone salesman from one-page Interior Ministry document, dated Aleppo who was among those stuck at the Aug. 29, says officials consider that “Syrians bus station. He and his compatriots say they who are trying to go to third countries don’t want to risk the dangerous boat trip through our country illegally are posing a across the Aegean Sea taken by so many threat to public order and public security others and had organized with the help of a and are negatively affecting our country’s Facebook group to travel to Edirne and try image internationally.” to walk to Greece en masse and on foot. PALMYRA: In this file image posted on a militant website by the Aleppo branch of the Islamic State group on July 3, It orders checks on Syrians’ documents at That border rush appears to have been a 2015, file photo, which has been verified and is consistent with other AP reporting, a militant smashes items that the the entrance and exit to each province and step too far for Turkish officials, who contin- group claims are smuggled archaeological pieces from the historic central town. — AP Experts and locals scrambling to document Syria’s heritage Desperate to stay a step ahead of Islamic State

BEIRUT: Scientists are slipping 3-D cameras into Syria to Historical sites have been damaged constantly since The project has also linked up with a leading local activists and residents to scan antiquities. A US- the war began, struck by shelling and government Chinese 3-D concrete printing company to consider funded project aims to provide local conservators with airstrikes or exposed to rampant looting. Syrian govern- eventually reconstructing some of the architecture that resources to help safeguard relics. Inside Syria, volun- ment officials already say they have moved some has been destroyed. A separate project would carry out teers scramble to document damage to monuments 300,000 artifacts from around the country to safe places far more detailed scans of antiquities in Syria and Iraq and confirm what remains. The rush is on to find cre- over recent years, including from IS-controlled areas. using laser scanners. The scanners bounce lasers off the ative and often high-tech ways to protect Syria’s millen- The Islamic State group’s advances mean antiquities surface of objects in the field, measuring millions of nia-long cultural heritage in the face of the threat that in Syria and Iraq face the danger not just of damage points a second to create a data set known as a point much of it could be erased by the country’s war, now in but of intentional eradication. The most stunning cloud. The data can be used to create 3-D images accu- its fifth year. Giving the drive new urgency, experts are example came in the past month, when the militants rate to two or three millimeters to create models or vir- desperate to stay a step ahead of the Islamic State blew up two famed temples in the ancient Syrian city tual tours of the sites or allow full-scale reconstructions. group, which has ruthlessly destroyed and looted sites of Palmyra. Satellite images showed that the two tem- But while the scanning brings the highest precision, that fall into its hands as it spreads across Syria and ples, which had survived for nearly 2,000 years, were it also requires experts, accompanied by security teams, ISTANBUL: Hundred of migrants, who were blocked at a bus station, walk neighboring Iraq. reduced to rubble. to visit the sites to scan them over extended periods of down a highway towards Turkey’s western border with Greece and The efforts are tempered by a recognition of the time using precise equipment - a much more unwieldy Bulgaria. — AP realities - that in some cases the best that can be hoped ‘Flood the region’ footprint in potentially dangerous areas than the 3-D for is to document ancient monuments in as great detail The Million Image Database project, which is backed cameras. The project, called “Anqa,” the Arabic word for as possible so that if they are destroyed they can still be by UNESCO, aims to “flood the region” with low-cost, the phoenix, the legendary bird that rises from the ash- asks law enforcement to tell transport com- ue to block the refugees who reached studied in the future, or possibly accurate replicas could easy-to-use 3-D cameras, delivered to activists to docu- es, aims to laser-scan 200 objects in Syria, Iraq and other panies that Syrians are not allowed to leave Edirne from approaching the border. For Al- one day be built. All acknowledge that nothing short of ment antiquities in their area, Michel said. The point- parts of the region, said its director Ben Kacyra, of the the provinces where they have registered Baya and others stuck at the station, it was it a military or political solution can stop the danger and-shoot cameras, which cost about $50 each, take a California-based scanning company CyArk. It will work without permission. The document only the first time they had ever been prevented posed by the militants and the conflict. stereoscopic image of the relics, with a granularity of with the government antiquities departments in Syria refers to Syrians, who constitute the over- from traveling within Turkey. One senior detail measured in centimeters. and Iraq, as well as UNESCO, to deploy teams in north- whelming majority of Turkey’s roughly 2 government official said the Interior min- Fraught with risks “The idea is to have as many images made of as ern and southern Iraq, Damascus and other areas, million refugees. istry document was a reminder of pre-exist- The campaigns are also fraught with risks. Getting many objects and buildings as possible in advance of Kacyra said. For security considerations, he would not ing rules that bar Syrians from leaving the supplies to activists on the ground can expose them to the destruction by the IS forces,” Michel said. Nearly specify what sites he plans to scan. Many mystified province they have registered in. He said the retribution from IS militants or others suspicious of 1,000 cameras have already been deployed or are on “We have a story to tell there that we can’t lose for The effect of the order, whose authentici- aim was to prevent “unauthorized mobiliza- outside powers. As a result, the various efforts under- their way, not only to Syria, but also Iraq, Yemen, our children and grandchildren,” Kacyra said. “Our her- ty was confirmed by two government offi- tions” and that Syrians with travel passes way are mostly cloaked in secrecy, with their organiz- Afghanistan, Turkey, Jordan and Egypt. The aim is to dis- itage is much more than our collective memory. It is our cials, was that hundreds of Syrians who tried could still circulate freely. He spoke on con- ers reluctant to give specifics on their activities for fear tribute 5,000 cameras region-wide by next year, at a collective treasure.” Kacyra, an engineer originally from to reach Edirne to join their fellows last dition of anonymity because he was not of endangering those on the ground. But among total coast of $3 to $6 million. the Iraqi city of Mosul, and his wife set up the non-profit week found themselves stuck for days just authorized to be named. experts, there’s a feeling that something - anything - The camera user can then upload the pictures or company CyArk to digitally preserve heritage sites outside a sprawling bus terminal in Esenler Nazir Hakim, a member of the Syrian must be done. videos to the project’s website. The website is closed to around the world after the 2001 destruction of the on the European side of Istanbul. Hundreds National Coalition, an opposition group “I don’t want to be having this conversation with the public to protect the activists’ anonymity and to Bamiyan Buddhas in Afghanistan. One site he scanned, of people, most of them Syrian, camped for with offices in Turkey, said that it was wrong somebody three years down the road, and they say, ensure the site remains a purely scholarly venture, not a the Kasubi royal tombs in Uganda, were torched in days in and around a nearby mosque, many to speak of new restrictions on his fellow ‘Gee why didn’t you start in 2015 when they (IS) only social media platform for activists, said Alexy 2010, and now the government is using his imagery to sleeping rough behind a cordon of police in Syrians. But he acknowledged that Ankara controlled three percent of the sites’,” said Roger Michel, Karenowska, a physicist who developed the web inter- reconstruct them. After Mosul fell to Islamic State group riot gear. Most were mystified by the refusal was reinforcing its existing rules. “Before, whose Million Image Database, an Oxford Institute of face and is the project’s technology director. As the proj- control in 2014 and the extremists began destroying of bus companies to sell them tickets. “I they closed their eyes,” he said. “Now, they Digital Archaeology project, began distributing hun- ect progresses, it will find a way to share storytelling antiquities there, Kacyra focused on documenting her- don’t know why they say no, really,” apply the law.” — AP dreds of 3-D cameras around the region to activists. from the material to the public, she said. itage in the Mideast. — AP France to sell warships to Egypt, after Russia deal gets scrapped

PARISL: Egypt agreed yesterday to buy two Mistral war- ing 400 Russian sailors to crew them. said that deal required overlooking some serious abus- ships which France built for Russia before scrapping the After months of intense negotiations, France and es by a regime which Paris sees as a bulwark against sale over the Ukraine crisis, showing Paris increasingly Russia agreed on the reimbursement of the deal in several threats in the region. values Cairo as a stable partner in a chaotic region. The August. Paris returned 949.7 million Euros which had With Libya to the west wracked by instability, and deal is the second big military contract this year already been paid and also committed not to sell the the threat from Islamic State-linked jihadists on its east- between France and Egypt, although the financial two warships to a country that could “contravene ern flank, Egypt has become a strategic partner to details of the sale were not divulged. Russia’s interests”, such as Poland or the Baltic states, a France despite a rights record sullied by Al-Sisi’s brutal President Francois Hollande and Egyptian President diplomatic source told AFP. Several countries were said crackdown on opponents. Sisi was elected president in Abdel Fattah al-Sisi “have agreed on the principle and to be interested in the warships, including Canada, India May 2014 with almost 97 percent of the vote a year terms and conditions of Egypt’s acquisition of the two and Singapore. While experts have said any sale would after toppling the country’s first freely elected leader, Mistral-class vessels,” the French presidency said. The likely see a significant price cut, government Islamist Mohamed Morsi. two warships, which can each carry 16 helicopters, four spokesman Stephane Le Foll insisted France would not A subsequent crackdown on Morsi’s supporters left landing craft and 13 tanks, were ordered by Russia in suffer “any losses” in the deal. at least 1,400 dead and thousands more in jail. Hollande 2011 in a 1.2-billion-euro ($1.3-billion) deal. However said during a visit to Egypt in August that the ever-clos- France found itself in an awkward situation as the date Ships after jets er ties between Paris and Cairo were hinged on the of delivery neared in 2014, and ties between Russia and The deal comes after Egypt became the first foreign “fight against terrorism”. “Unfortunately it is the the West plunged to Cold War lows over Moscow’s buyers of France’s Rafale fighter jet, agreeing to pur- Egyptian people who pay the price,” Didier Billion of the annexation of Crimea and support for separatists in chase 24 in February, in what Paris hailed as an “historic” Paris-based Institute of Strategic and International eastern Ukraine. accord. The 5.2-billion-euro ($5.9 billion) sale of the Relations said at the time of the Rafale sale. “We can Paris faced the wrath of its allies around the world if planes and a frigate was a rare triumph for France which shut our eyes over the rights situation in Egypt but we it were to deliver the technology to Russia, and decided had failed to export its flagship multi-role combat jet. can’t shut our eyes over Russia, because Russia is at the to cancel the delivery. It was an expensive decision for However rights group Amnesty International centre of an international power struggle,” said Billion. BEIRUT: A Lebanese man carries a sheep on September 23, 2015 at a live- France, which has had to foot the bill of over one billion slammed the decision to sell the jets to a nation it has “We can see morals and international relations don’t stock market in the Lebanese capital Beirut as Muslims prepare to cele- Euros for the upkeep of the ships and the cost of train- accused of “alarming” human rights abuses. Analysts mix well.” — AFP brate Eid Al-Adha. — AFP THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 INTERNATIONAL Everything you need to know about UN’s new global goals

UNITED NATIONS: World leaders are launching an ative thinking to generate funds from govern- ambitious drive to transform the planet by 2030 ments and the private sector. Billions of dollars in with the adoption on Friday of new UN goals to development aid will be re-directed to meet the wipe out extreme poverty, promote health and goals but the United Nations also wants to tap into education and combat climate change. The new local sources of financing through improved rev- UN agenda will replace the millennium develop- enue collection. The global goals call for improved ment goals (MDGs) that expire this year, but its transparency in oil-producing countries to clamp objectives are much more ambitious in scope. down on corruption and ensure that revenues Here’s a look at some of the key issues: from natural resources are used to improve the lives of citizens. International financial institutions What are the goals? like the African Development Bank and the World There are 17 goals and 169 targets that range Bank will step up with financing support for major from ending poverty, ensuring healthy lives, com- infrastructure projects that would have a knock-on bating climate change, achieving gender equality effect in combating poverty. and even conserving the oceans. The new goals have been criticized for being ill-defined and far Are they achievable? too broad. In comparison, the MDGs were limited The United Nations is planning to roll out some to eight goals, mostly focused on combating 300 indicators to measure progress by countries poverty and improving child and maternal health. and provide data on how governments are work- The goals are non-binding, but the summit opening to meet the goals. It is unlikely that all countries ing Friday will allow leaders to publicly commit to will achieve all of the goals, but aid groups say they achieving them. Much attention has focused on will provide benchmarks for governments in every the first goal-ending extreme poverty. area of development. Jamie Drummond, executive More than 836 million people still live in director for global strategy at the ONE campaign, extreme poverty in the least-developed countries, described the global goals as a “citizen’s scorecard, in southern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Contrary to hold governments accountable for delivery.” to the MDGs, the new global goals apply to both “The key missing ingredient is political will,” said developing and developed countries and negotia- Drummond. “We have a great history of promise- tions were opened up to governments and civil making at the UN, but the question is whether the WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama and Pope Francis wave during an arrival ceremony at the White House society, not only to UN experts. promise is ever kept.” yesterday. — AFP

How will the goals be financed? When do they enter into force? The price tag to achieve the new global goals is Formally known as the sustainable develop- Pope gets warm welcome expected to be between $3.5 and $5 trillion annu- ment goals, the SDGs enter into force on January 1 ally over the next 15 years-a whopping sum that and the deadline for implementing all of them is the goals’ architects argue will require some cre- December 31, 2030. — AFP at White House by Obama Colbert turns Trump ‘Grateful for your welcome in the name of all Americans’

into his straight man WASHINGTON: Barack Obama wel- said, to applause. “As the son of an ingly rare ceremonial trip to the airport ular pope’s moral authority and offer- comed Pope Francis to the White immigrant family, I am happy to be a to meet the Argentine’s plane Tuesday, ing him America’s largest political plat- NEW YORK: Stephen Colbert showered repeated his contention, as a former heavy House yesterday-the first black US guest in this country, which was largely bringing his wife, daughters, Vice form. thanks on Donald Trump, his “Late Show” campaign donor, that candidates who accept president hailing the first pontiff from built by such families.” In a nod to President Joe Biden to underscore the Even the half of Americans who guest. “I want to thank you not only for being major contributions are typically “owned” by the Americas as a unique moral author- Washington’s bitter debate about special welcome. The visit is a political hold an unfavorable view of the here but for running for president,” Colbert those donors once in office. ity. The South Lawn of the White House immigration reform, Francis said he mirror of Pope Benedict’s 2008 visit to Catholic Church like Pope Francis, told the GOP front-runner Tuesday night. “I’m “You gave them a big contribution and echoed to the strains of the Pontifical would address Congress “to offer George W Bush’s White House. Those according to a recent Washington Post- not going to say this stuff writes itself, but you you want something and all of a sudden Anthem, the Star-Spangled Banner and words of encouragement to those two leaders were as conservative as ABC poll. Francis will make two key certainly do deliver it on time every day.” they’ve very receptive,” he said. If you didn’t a thundering 21-gun salute, as called to guide the nation’s political their current successors are progres- speeches during his US visit, the Colbert’s gratitude for Trump’s comic assis- make a healthy gift, “believe me, you get the Washingtonians thronged the streets future in fidelity to its founding princi- sive. Still, the White House insists it is address to Congress and another to the tance was well-placed. Peppering Trump with cold shoulder.” Colbert asked if Trump really for the historic visit. An inspiration to ples.” not co-opting a holy man in order to United Nations on Friday. Topics will questions and wisecracks during his appear- wants to be president: “If you actually got the many of America’s 70 million Catholics, Many US conservatives call into batter Republican foes in Congress. include critiques of the dominance of ance, the CBS host reduced the usually domi- gig, would that be a step down for you? You Francis is also a potential political ally question the very existence of man- “The goal of this meeting is to give finance and technology; a condemna- neering Trump to straight-man status, an know what the pay is like, right?” for Obama, sharing many of his pro- made climate change, but Francis and the two men the opportunity to talk tion of world powers over the conflicts unaccustomed role Trump performed with Trump replied that he is running “not gressive goals. Obama made a de facto joint appeal about their shared values,” said White gripping the planet; appeals to protect rare grace. Bringing up Trump’s proposal to because I want it, but because I think I can do Both men called for action on cli- for action on the issue. “Holy Father, House spokesman Josh Earnest. and welcome immigrants; and climate build a wall between the United States and a great job.”When pressed on his past con- mate change and hailed the rap- you remind us that we have a sacred “There’ll be time for politics, frankly, the change, according to Vatican sources. Mexico, Colbert offered his own mocking ver- tention that President Barack Obama wasn’t prochement between the United obligation to protect our planet, God’s other 364 days of the year,” he said. The pope’s agenda tracks so closely sion of a way to bar illegal immigration: Two born in the United States, Trump deferred. “I States and Cuba-causes dear to the magnificent gift to us,” Obama said. Francis has signaled he is also unlikely with Obama’s efforts to introduce walls, and in between them a moat filled with don’t talk about it anymore,” he said. But he White House but opposed by US con- Francis took up the call. “Accepting the to wade directly into America’s bitterly immigration reform, as well as domes- fire and fireproof crocodiles. “Is that enough?” was gung-ho for a game that called for guess- servatives. “I believe the excitement urgency, it seems clear to me also that fought politics. The Vatican played a tic and international limits on carbon Colbert asked. And focusing on Trump’s insis- ing who in the past had made certain out- around your visit must be attributed climate change is a problem which can crucial role in brokering talks between emissions that Republicans are already tence that Mexico would pay for the wall, landish remarks: Trump or the comically con- not only to your role as pope, but to no longer be left to a future genera- Havana and Washington that led to the crying foul. Congressman Paul Gosar, Colbert drew him into a role-playing exercise - servative blowhard Colbert played for a your unique qualities as a person,” tion,” Francis said. “When it comes to recent restoration of diplomatic ties who is Catholic, declared he would a phone call where “you’re you, and I’m the decade as host of “The Colbert Report.” Trump Obama told his guest. “In your humility, the care of our ‘common home,’ we are after more than half a century. boycott the pontiff’s historic address to president of Mexico.” or Colbert? “Medicare is like a nice pair of cuf- your embrace of simplicity, the gentle- living at a critical moment of history.” Congress to protest his “leftist” views. flinks. Nobody wears cufflinks ness of your words and the generosity ‘Against all embargoes’ During the historic six-day trip to ‘Worst nightmare’ anymore.”“That’s you,” said Trump. Correct. of your spirit, we see a living example Pomp and circumstance But the pope also told reporters New York, symbolic home of capital- Colbert noted that Trump is leading the Trump or Colbert? “It’s freezing and snowing of Jesus’ teachings, a leader whose The pope was afforded a full cere- that he would not specifically bring up ism, Francis will preside over an inter- field while he vows to finance his campaign in New York. We need global warming.” “I think moral authority comes not just monial welcome on his historic first vis- Washington’s embargo of Cuba in his faith ceremony at Ground Zero, visit a out of his own pocket. “The Republican Party it’s you,” Trump hedged, “but it’s close to being through words but through deeds.” it to the United States, and to speech Thursday before American law- Harlem Catholic school and greet has been a big pusher of the idea that money me.” It was Trump. And finally: “The real strong Speaking in fluent but accented Washington-a political city that ordi- makers, who largely favor taking a crowds on a procession through is speech, and you’re a $10 billion mouth,” said have no need to prove it to the phonies.” “It’s English, the 78-year-old Argentine pon- narily shrugs its shoulders when presi- tough line with Havana. “The Holy See Central Park. He will wrap up his trip Colbert. “You’re their worst nightmare.” “I think not me,” said Trump after a pause. “It COULD tiff returned the warm blessings of his dents, queens and sheikhs roll through. is against this embargo, but it is against Saturday and Sunday in Philadelphia at the establishment in the Republican Party be you.” “It’s not me, either,” Colbert said. “It’s host. “I am deeply grateful for your wel- Well-wishers lined the Pope’s route all embargoes,” he said. Yet there is no an international festival of Catholic probably isn’t that thrilled,” he agreed. Trump Charles Manson.” “Ooooo,” said Trump. — AP come in the name of all Americans,” he and Obama himself made an exceed- mistaking the value of enlisting a pop- families. — AFP Traditional GOP candidates try Top-ranking and governing to adapt as ranks begin to thin Mormon leader dead at 86 SALT LAKE CITY: Mormon leader Richard G Scott WASHINGTON: Scott Walker and Rick Apparent desire congressman, touted his efforts to chal- said. “That’s why I’m missing votes. died Tuesday at the age of 86 - leaving the reli- Perry entered the 2016 presidential race Republicans voters’ apparent desire lenge the status quo and even his own Because I am leaving the Senate.” The suc- gion with three openings on its top governing with a combined 18 years of experience for a political novice is striking given that party. Kasich has pushed the GOP to do cess of anti-establishment candidates body for the first time in more than a century. as governors. They exited the Republican conservatives have long attributed some more to address poverty, mental illness isn’t lost on Democratic front-runner Scott died from natural causes at his home in Salt primary- the first candidates to do so - of what they see as President Barack and drug addiction, and he created an Hillary Rodham Clinton. On Sunday, the Lake City surrounded by his family, The Church of with negligible support and dwindling Obama’s weaknesses to his inexperience alternative to party leaders’ spending former first lady, senator and secretary of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said in a state- bank accounts. While Walker and Perry when he took office. Obama spent a little plans while serving in Congress. state tried to pitch herself as an outsider, ment. Scott had been a member of a church gov- were both flawed candidates, their swift less than eight years as an Illinois state “You can either say you’re a change too. erning body called the Quorum of the Twelve demise is a warning to others who hope senator and ran for president during his agent and have nothing to show for it “I cannot imagine anyone being more Apostles since 1988. to win the White House on the strength of first term in the US Senate. but talk, or you can say you’re a change of an outsider than the first woman presi- He is the third top member of the quorum to their political resumes. And it leaves the As traditional candidates among the agent and have proof and results that dent,” Clinton said in an interview with die this year, leaving three vacancies on the quo- governors and senators still in the turbu- current GOP contenders try to break have worked,” Kasich spokesman Scott CBS’ “Face The Nation.” Walker’s campaign, rum for the first time since 1906, church officials lent Republican race scrambling to adapt through, they’re employing a two-track Milburn said. Kentucky Sen Rand Paul however, serves as a cautionary tale for said. Quorum president Boyd K Packer died in July to a political environment that is reward- strategy: distance themselves from casts himself as “a new kind of experienced candidates trying to earn from natural causes, and quorum member L Tom ing those with the least governing experi- Washington’s political elite while also Republican,” one who courts younger outsider bona fides. As Walker grappled Perry died in May from cancer. Replacements for ence. building a campaign that can outlast vot- voters and minorities. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz for ways to save his candidacy, he denied the trio are expected to be named in the coming “The country is very unhappy now, ers’ discontent if the anti-establishment has infuriated GOP leaders during his he was a career politician - despite having months, perhaps at the religion’s twice-a-year and a winning candidate must be viewed mood ultimately fades. In the hours after two-and-a-half years in Congress. And been in elected office for 22 years. conference on Oct 3-4. as a change agent,” said Scott Reed, a Walker’s stunning withdrawal Monday, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio jumped at the Advisers to several GOP campaigns Six other members among the religion’s top longtime Republican strategist who advis- his experienced rivals intensified efforts opportunity to distance himself from say they expect voters to ultimately gravi- 15 leaders are also 80 or older, including church SALT LAKE CITY: In this July 10, 2015, file es the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. So far, to pitch themselves as Washington out- Congress during last week’s Republican tate toward experienced candidates as president Thomas S Monson. He is 88 and is feel- photo, Richard G Scott attends the billionaire Donald Trump has been the siders and political disruptors. debate. next year’s early primaries and caucuses ing the effects of his age, according to church offi- memorial service for Mormon leader biggest beneficiary of the public’s “You cannot say that Scott Walker, draw near. Unlike Walker and Perry, who cials. Russell M. Nelson, 91, is next in line to Boyd K Packer at the Tabernacle, on demand for an outsider. Retired neurosur- Rick Perry or myself were insiders in ‘Lives of our people’ struggled to build sustainable cam- become church president based on being the Temple Square. — AP geon Ben Carson and former Hewlett- Washington,” said Jeb Bush, the former “In my years in the Senate, I’ve figured paigns, some of the more traditional can- longest-tenured member of the quorum. Packard CEO Carly Fiorina are also attract- two-term Florida governor who is also out very quickly that the political estab- didates are banking on building organi- church news release that Scott delivered hope- ing voters eager to express their anger the son and brother of presidents. lishment in Washington, DC, in both zations that will still be standing if the Business interests filled messages that inspired others. He was cred- with Washington. None of the three has Advisers for Ohio Gov. John Kasich, a sec- political parties is completely out of electorate’s mood does indeed shift. Born in Pocatello, Idaho, Scott had a successful ited with helping drive global church member- ever won an election. ond-term governor and long-serving touch with the lives of our people,” Rubio For Bush, that means having money - career as a nuclear engineer before being chosen ship. “I don’t go anywhere, especially in Latin and lots of it. The former Florida governor in 1988 as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve America, where he served for so long and in so raised $120 million for his super PAC and Apostles. Modeled after Jesus Christ’s apostles, many places - I don’t go anywhere there that I campaign in the first half of the year, vast- the group serves under the church president and don’t see his footprints, where I don’t meet some- ly more than any of his rivals. Bush’s finan- his two counselors in overseeing operations of body who hasn’t been influenced by him in some cial stability has already allowed him to the church and its business interests. way,” Christofferson said in the news release. pour $24 million into television advertis- Scott’s health began deteriorating earlier this Scott was born in Idaho, but he moved at the age ing in early voting states. year. He was hospitalized with gastrointestinal of 5 to Washington, DC, where his father, Rubio’s strategy is to run a lean cam- bleeding in April. He recovered from that, but Kenneth Leroy, would become assistant secretary paign through the fall, expending as little church officials announced in May that Scott was of agriculture. Scott graduated from George money as possible on staff, travel and experiencing fading memory that kept him from Washington University with a degree in mechani- advertisements until the early primaries taking part in quorum meetings. Scott kept a fair- cal engineering. draw closer. “We’ve run such a lean cam- ly low public profile, known mostly for his speech- Throughout his life, he suffered intense per- paign at times, taken knocks for it,” said es at Mormon conferences where he managed a sonal losses. Two of his seven children died when Terry Sullivan, Rubio’s campaign manag- delicate balance of “preaching repentance with- they were young, and his wife, Jeanene, died of er. “But keeping control of the budget is out stridency,” said Matthew Bowman, an associ- cancer in 1995. She was the daughter of U.S. Sen. such an important thing.” Rubio’s strategy ate professor of history at Henderson State Arthur Watkins. Scott never remarried. Scott didn’t is driven in part by necessity. His cam- University. Mormon scholar Armand Mauss called speak at the last church general conference in paign and outside groups supporting his Scott a “mild-mannered leader promoting self- April. His final address came in October 2014 candidacy have raised about one-third of improvement and compassion as important when he spoke about the importance of prayer, Bush’s totals. Still, Rubio’s advisers point attributes for Latter-day Saints to acquire.” scripture reading, family home nights and going to Walker’s financial woes as validation. Utah Gov Gary Herbert called Scott a kind and to the temple. “Each of us is intimately aware of Walker built a large network of staff and generous leader. “His unwavering faith and pur- our own struggles with temptation, pain and sad- consultants, but quickly burned through suit of lifelong learning was an example to each ness,” Scott said that day. “Despite all of the nega- the money he needed to keep the expen- one of us,” Herbert said in a statement. Fellow tive challenges we have in life, we must take time IOWA: Republican presidential candidate, businessman Donald Trump holds a Bible as he speaks during sive organization afloat. — AP quorum member D. Todd Christofferson said in a to actively exercise our faith.” — AP the Iowa Faith & Freedom Coalition’s annual fall dinner. — AP THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 INTERNATIONAL Burkina president resumes power as coup ends

OUAGADOUGOU: Burkina Faso’s toppled Ouagadougou, turning up the pressure on putschists an amnesty in return. But the interim President Michel Kafando resumed the elite presidential guards (RSP) who proposal was met with widespread scepti- power yesterday after a week-long coup by staged the coup. Under its terms, the RSP cism before any final draft even saw the renegade troops, who caved in under pres- agreed to stand down from the positions light. sure from regional powers and former colo- they had taken up in Ouagadougou, while Speaking to France’s RFI radio, Kafando nial ruler France. the army also agreed to withdraw its troops had warned he had “serious reservations” The move came after marathon talks in and guarantee the safety of the RSP mem- about the proposal, adding that he had not the capital of regional and military heavy- bers as well as their families. The accord was been invited to the talks in the Nigerian weight Nigeria, brokered by the ECOWAS presented to the Mogho Naba, “king” of capital. Residents too were furious at the West African regional bloc, and threats by Burkina Faso’s leading Mossi tribe, in front of suggestion of an amnesty for the coup ring- French President Francois Hollande that the the media early yesterday. leaders. It was unclear early yesterday if the coup leaders could face sanctions if they did Burkina Faso was plunged into crisis last amnesty had made it into the deal signed not hand back power. “The transition has Wednesday when the powerful RSP detained between the coup leaders and the army. been restored and this very minute I am the interim leaders who had been running On Tuesday, Burkina Faso’s military had resuming the exercise of power,” Kafando the country since a popular uprising warned coup leader Diendere it has the told reporters. deposed iron-fisted president Compaore last means to attack his elite forces. Diendere Six ECOWAS heads of state were mean- October after his failed bid to extend his 27- had hit back, saying his men would defend while arriving in the Burkinabe capital year rule. The elite unit of 1,300 men loyal to themselves if the army attacked them. “We Ouagadougou to oversee the formal re- Compaore officially declared a coup do not want to fight but ultimately we will installation of Kafando and to try and sort Thursday and installed rebel leader General defend ourselves,” Diendere had warned. out two contentious issues : an amnesty plan Gilbert Diendere, Compaore’s former chief of ECOWAS commission president Kadre for the putsches and whether upcoming staff, as the country’s new leader. OUAGADOUGOU: A protester holds a sign reading “Regiment of Presidential Desire Ouedraogo, a former Burkinabe elections should be open to supporters of The breakthrough came as Diendere told Security (RSP) = Boko Haram” during a protest not far from the hotel where lead- prime minister, said Tuesday that military previously deposed veteran dictator Blaise AFP that interim president Michel Kafando, ers of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) were holding a and humanitarian observers from member Compaore. who had been seized by presidential guards meeting. — AFP states would be sent to Burkina Faso “to Kafando said the regional leaders would but later released, would be returned to monitor respect for human rights”. The coup “take into account the will of the Burkinabe office yesterday. The return of “Kafando is Fighting talk injured in the resulting unrest. A round of had sparked global condemnation, with people” in their new mediation bid. The deal already a done deal. The (African) heads of The putsch came just weeks ahead of an talks mediated by Senegalese President France urging the leaders to surrender to restore the interim administration to pow- state arrive tomorrow to put him back in election planned for October 11, with at Macky Sall focused on returning power to immediately or face the “consequences”, er was signed overnight after troops entered office,” Diendere said late Tuesday. least 10 people killed and more than 100 the interim government while granting the including possible sanctions. — AFP

Eye of the storm: Migrants Schoolboy interrogated trickle in at Swiss border for saying ‘eco-terrorist’ LONDON: A Muslim teenager was inter- ing a judicial review, claiming that the ‘Situation stable, but tomorrow that could change’ rogated by British child protection serv- child was discriminated against because ices about possible links to the Islamic he was a Muslim. State group after he used the word “eco- The teenager explained in legal doc- CHIASSO: Border guards in crisp blue uniforms rush ment and member of the populist rightwing Lega dei town of just 8,000 inhabitants-more than double the terrorist” in a French class, The Guardian uments seen by the Guardian that he onto the train as it grinds to a halt, quickly rounding up Ticinesi party, meanwhile said border closures and number during the same period last year. reported yesterday. The 14-year-old boy had used the word “eco-terrorist” to around a dozen African men and herding them into a tighter border controls elsewhere could easily push Chiasso, which historically has served as the main used the word during a lesson as part of refer to people who “take action such as nearby hall. Between 30 and 150 migrants and refugees large numbers towards Switzerland. migrant gateway to Switzerland, has withstood greater a discussion at his school in central spiking trees with nails to prevent are intercepted each day at the train station in the small “We are in the process of planning for possibly man- numbers in the past, with hundreds crossing each day London about environmental activism, chainsaws from chopping them down”. southern Swiss town of Chiasso. The numbers pale in aging thousands of arrivals per day,” he told AFP in his during the Balkan war in the 1990s. But the current rise according to the report. The Central Foundation boys’ school comparison to the waves of migrants and refugees tak- office in the regional capital Bellinzona. Switzerland, is wearing on both the Swiss population and asylum A few days later he was pulled out of reportedly told the Guardian it was ing the perilous Mediterranean route to Greece and on which has already taken in some 9,000 Syrians since the seekers already in the town who are facing growing class and taken to a room where he was respecting government guidance anti-immigrant sentiment. “You can feel it,” said former questioned by two people, one of whom including the “Prevent duty”, an initia- Ethiopian government regulator Melekot was a child protection officer, the left-of- tive which aims to stop people engag- Woldemichael, who has been waiting in Chiasso for five centre daily said. He was asked if he was ing in terrorism. years for a decision on his asylum application. But, the “affiliated” with IS-also known as ISIS-or The newspaper said the incident 53-year-old insisted, “it’s natural... They are afraid for had heard of the militant group, it shone a light on how schools were deal- their own security, so even if they say anti-immigrant added. “I didn’t know what was going ing with Britain’s new anti-terrorism ini- feelings, you have to understand them. I’m not saying on,” the unnamed boy was quoted as tiatives. A spokesman for the school that they’re right.” saying. “They said there had been safety said: “The safeguarding and the wellbe- concerns raised. If you are taken out of ing of our young people is our primary 23 days at sea French class and asked about ISIS, it is concern. “The school is confident that Chiasso mayor Moreno Colombo meanwhile quite scary. My heart skipped a beat.” A its safeguarding policies and the work stressed the need to prepare for a surge in arrivals new law from this year places a legal of the professionals in the operation of “while the situation is calm”, and said the town had duty on British schools to “prevent peo- these policies are proportionate, justi- asked for more border guards. Some reinforcements ple from being drawn into terrorism”. fied and place the wellbeing of the child have already arrived. At the Chiasso station, a guard The boys’ parents are reportedly seek- to the fore.” — AFP sent from Switzerland’s German-speaking region, wearing a buzz-cut, steel-rimmed glasses and blue plastic gloves, questioned the Eritreans and Gambians pulled off the latest train from Milan. “Why have you come? Spain’s foreign minister warns Do you know where you are?” he asked, over-enunciat- ing to make himself understood. The men and boys Catalans will lose nationality looked dazed as they were finger-printed and given bright yellow bracelets with new ID numbers. They were also asked if they wished to seek asylum. It’s a MADRID: Catalonia’s 7.5 million residents Pro-secession parties say they will crucial question: If they says yes, they can remain in would automatically lose their Spanish establish independence within 18 months NICKELSDORF: Syrian refugee girl Sondos Almasri, 9, who suffers from cold, Switzerland while the application is processed, but if nationality, and consequently their if they win a majority of seats in the 165- is comforted by her mother after spending the night at a collection point in they instead want to go elsewhere in Europe they will European citizenship, if the regional gov- seat regional parliament. Most opinion the truck parking lot of the former border station on the Austrian side of the be sent back to Italy. ernment that emerges from this week- polls predict they will win a seat majority That is because Switzerland, while not part of the end’s local elections decides to declare but may fall short of a majority of votes, Hungarian-Austrian border. — AFP European Union, is part of the Dublin Treaty, under independence, Spain’s foreign minister throwing the legitimacy of any eventual which asylum claims must be processed by the first said yesterday. secession push into question. up through the Balkans towards more hospitable coun- conflict there exploded in March 2011, last week European country refugees arrive in. A Somali woman, Jose Manuel Garcia Margallo said that On Monday, Spain’s Central Bank said tries in northern Europe. But this lazy border town in agreed to take in 1,500 of the 40,000 asylum seekers clutching a six-month-old baby still sick after spending when one splits from a country, one loses Catalonia would be automatically ejected Switzerland’s Italian-speaking Ticino region is bracing European countries want resettled from overstretched 23 days at sea in the Mediterranean listened intently as the benefits of belonging to that country. from the European Union and the euro- for an expected influx as crowds of migrants try to navi- Greece and Italy. Not many Syrians are crossing into the guards explained what would happen once her He said the claim that Catalans could zone if it were to declare independence. gate a growing number of closed borders in the east Chiasso for the time being, however. Most arriving asylum application had been filed. The pair would be maintain Spanish nationality after inde- Spanish bank associations have also and as the number of possible routes dwindles. “At the here, by train, car or on foot, are from a range of African taken to the registration centre in Chiasso for medical pendence was mistaken. Margallo said warned that banking groups might have moment, everything is under control, the situation is countries and have first travelled to Libya before examinations and then to an asylum centre elsewhere the last time such a situation happened to reconsider their positions in Catalonia stable, but tomorrow that could change,” said Patrick attempting the perilous Mediterranean crossing to in Switzerland. After she had been gently led off, one was when Algeria declared independence in the case of independence. Secession Benz, head of the Swiss border guards’ migration unit. Italy. While they so far make up only a fraction of the of the guards sighed heavily. “I’m conflicted. The large from France in 1962 and its citizens lost leaders insist that ways would be found over half million migrants who have arrived in Europe numbers arriving means problems for Switzerland,” he French nationality and the right to for an independent Catalonia to continue Thousands per day this year, their numbers are climbing. Between June said. “But it’s so tough to hear their stories and try to European citizenship. using the euro. The Spanish government Norman Gobbi, head of Ticino’s regional govern- and August, around 5,000 crossed the border into the imagine what I might do in their situation.” — AFP Catalan nationalists argue that the has ruled out any possibility of the region Spanish Constitution entitles those with becoming independent, saying secession Spanish nationality to keep it and that would be unconstitutional. Catalonia, Catalans would be able to keep both their whose capital is Barcelona, represents New Tsipras gov’t takes Spanish nationality and European pass- about 18 percent of Spain’s economic out- ports. Margallo’s warning was the latest put. Polls show Catalans overwhelmingly against independence from Spanish offi- support the right for a secession referen- oath of office in Greece cials as voters in the economically power- dum but are evenly divided over inde- ful northeastern region prepare to elect pendence. Surveys show they oppose it if regional lawmakers Sunday. it means leaving the 28-nation EU. — AP ATHENS; Greek Prime Minister Alexis kept the same team that negotiated the Greeks (ANEL) party in the government pressure on Greek islands swamped by Tsipras’ new left-wing government took country’s latest EU bailout. Pro-euro coalition, was once again given the refugee arrivals. One new arrival has office yesterday with painful economic Euclid Tsakalotos retains the finance min- defense portfolio. Nikos Kotzias, the for- raised eyebrows-an ANEL lawmaker who reforms ahead and a growing migration istry portfolio while George Houliarakis, mer senior Communist who clashed with has repeatedly made anti-Semitic com- crisis that threatens to open a rift in the the reclusive expert who led the coun- EU peers over the Ukraine crisis, returns ments on social media, and was appoint- Shock, outrage in Ghana as EU. Tsipras barely had time to see his cab- try’s rocky bailout negotiations with EU to the foreign ministry, and the key ed junior works minister. The new gov- inet sworn into office before flying to and IMF envoys, has been appointed jun- migration portfolio remains in the hands ernment has 16 ministers and 30 deputy judicial ‘bribery’ video airs Brussels for an emergency migration ior finance minister. EU economic affairs of Ioannis Mouzalas, who as interim min- ministers, but only four women including summit, a day after EU ministers forced commissioner Pierre Moscovici expressed ister before the election helped ease the spokeswoman. — AFP ACCRA: Ghanaians have voiced such abuses,” he said. Another resi- through a controversial deal to relocate delight to have Tsakalotos back at the shock and anger after hundreds of dent, Bismarck Nanor, said any judge 120,000 refugees, angering several mem- post. people flocked to see a public found guilty of wrong-doing should ber states in the process. “Happy to continue working together screening of a long-awaited video be punished and not be regarded as In statements after his election victo- to help Greece,” Moscovici tweeted yes- ry on Sunday, Tsipras said Europe had terday. Several members of the cabinet capturing judges and court officials “above the law”. “I think that for the failed to give adequate support to noted that their first order of business allegedly taking bribes. Twenty-two justice system to purge itself, every- Athens and called for “shared responsibil- was to revive the Greek economy, which circuit judges and magistrates were one found culpable must be pun- ity” in managing the influx of migrants is still bound by capital controls imposed suspended when the claims were ished according to the same law, the from Syria and elsewhere. The new Greek by Tsipras in June to avert a deposit run. first made in a newspaper earlier this same legal proceedings they use cabinet is almost a carbon copy of the “Our goal is recovery and reconstruction,” month, sparking a probe by the against others,” he added. previous government headed by the 41- deputy Prime Minister Yiannis Dragasakis country’s judicial council disciplinary Michael Ntim questioned why year-old premier, who resigned in August told reporters before the ceremony. “We body. judges would be tempted to accept after seven months in office after losing have the prerequisites to overcome the Some of the judges implicated bribes in the first place, adding: “I was his majority when anti-euro hardliners in difficulties,” he said, adding that the gov- tried to block the broadcast but so shocked honestly at some of the his Syriza party quit in anger over an eco- ernment wanted to leave “left-wing fin- failed and the footage lasting several things I saw.” The allegations of bribe- nomic reform-and-rescue deal. gerprints” at the end of its term. hours was finally shown on Tuesday taking to swing favorable verdicts Senior Syriza figures also insist they evening in the capital, Accra. “The and acquittals were made by an Keeping the balance will propose alternative policies to miti- whole thing is pathetic,” said Kwame undercover journalist, who then peti- The liberal daily Kathimerini said yes- gate some of the toughest bailout cuts. Acheampong, who was among the tioned President John Dramani terday that Tsipras had been careful to “We will try to implement our policies, audience at the screening, which it Mahama for the judges’ removal. In reward loyal Syriza cadres who support- which include the bailout, but there are has been claimed was confirmation addition to the 22 judges and magis- ed him against the hardliners. “Tsipras’ limitless possibilities for work that of long-held suspicions about the trates suspended, Ghana’s chief jus- basic criterion was to keep the balance in reduces the negative impacts of the practice in Ghana. “They have abused tice Georgina Wood said the judicial his party... and reward those who stood deal,” said state minister Alekos the system and if we really want the council was also looking at whether at his side on the bailout issue,” the daily Flambouraris. ATHENS: Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras (right) chats with Greek said. Panos Kammenos, the boisterous system to work, then there must be 12 high court judges should also face President Prokopis Pavlopoulos as they attend the swearing-in cere- rules and regulations that go with action. — AFP Sending a signal to creditors, Tsipras head of the nationalist Independent mony of the new government at the presidential palace. — AFP THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 INTERNATIONAL Bangladesh says it meets factory safety conditions DHAKA: Bangladesh said it has met the from Bangladesh under the GSP benefit conditions put forward by the United was $34.7 million with tobacco, sports States for better safety and workers’ rights equipment, porcelain china and plastic in its factories that were essential to regain products topping the list. In August, the preferential trade status the impoverished United States renewed the trade benefit for South Asian nation lost in 2013 after two 122 countries until 2017, but the trade rep- disasters killed 1,500 garment workers. resentative’s office said Bangladesh needed The preferential trade status does not to do more. cover Bangladesh’s influential garment industry, which helps the country earn $25 New rules billion annually and mainly exports to the A government statement said United States and Europe. But Dhaka has Bangladeshi officials told the visiting long lobbied for its garment industry to American delegation this week that it has have duty-free access to the United States fulfilled the conditions required. The gov- and the lost status was seen as a big blow ernment has so far shut down some 364 to that goal. apparel units for lack of sufficient safety The government said in its statement measures. It has amended labor laws, late Tuesday that all of the 16 conditions enacting new rules for allowing workers to set by the U.S. have been met. A delegation form unions, increased the number of fac- of the U.S. Trade Representative’s office is tory inspectors and settled many criminal visiting Bangladesh to review improve- cases against trade union leaders who said ments in safety standards at factories and the charges were meant to silence them. changes to legal documents allowing for Authorities say some 500 factory-based wider workers’ rights. trade unions have now been registered and The conditions are needed to regain the workers’ welfare associations have been Generalized System of Preferences benefit formed in special export zones. A leading under which the US allows imports of some workers’ rights activist says that while 5,000 goods from 122 of the world’s poor- Bangladesh has made some improvements, est countries with low- or zero-tariff bene- a lot more needs to be done to ensure the fits. The trade benefit was withdrawn after safety of the country’s factory workers. the collapse of Rana Plaza, a building com- “If you talk about safety and structural plex housing five garment factories outside aspects of the factories, no doubt, there is the capital, Dhaka in 2013. The Rana Plaza major improvement, but if you take the disaster and a fire at a Tazreen Fashions fac- issues of freedom of association and work- MUMBAI: In this photograph taken on September 4, 2015, an Indian dabbawallah or lunchbox deliveryman, carries a cart filled with lunch box- tory in November 2012 left about 1,500 ers’ right to bargain collectively, we still lag es to an assembly point before delivering them to offices. — AFP photos workers dead and hundreds injured. behind,” Kalpona Akter, executive director The garment industry is crucial to of Bangladesh Center for Workers’ Bangladesh’s economy as it employs about Solidarity, told The Associated Press. “The 4 million workers, mostly rural women, and registration of 500 or so unions is a fact, but many other sectors including banks are some mainstream trade union groups are Mumbai’s renowned tiffin carriers heavily dependent on it. The government not being allowed to get registration. If you of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been look at numbers, that looks good, but adapt to India’s changing lifestyles heavily criticized by the opposition for its many of those are formed and controlled “failure” to regain the lost trading status. by the owners,’ Akter said. “”We must see In 2012, the total value of US imports practically how it works,” she said. — AP ‘Dabbawallahs’ expand menus to cater to youth MUMBAI: Mumbai’s world-renowned tiffin service is no longer the preserve of loyal housewives cooking up generations-old family dishes to be delivered to their husbands’ offices by the city’s famous “dabbawallahs”. Now a host of health- conscious young start-ups are using-and sometimes superseding-the dabbawallahs to deliver lunches catering to all diets, with tailored menus offering an array of global cuisines online. The 5,000 or so lunchbox delivery men, instantly recognizable by their white cotton uniforms and Nehru caps, pedal through Mumbai’s congested streets carrying everything from Thai to Mexican, as well as healthy takes on local favorites. “The number of tiffins (meals) being sent by food companies has gone up sharply in the past few years,” said Raghunath Medage, president of Mumbai’s dabbawallah union. “The share of homemade food we carry has fallen from 100 percent to around 60 percent, and we expect that number to keep dropping,” he said. Dabbawallahs, literally meaning “box SAVAR: In this April 25, 2013 file photo, Bangladeshi people gather as rescuers look carriers”, have been plying Mumbai’s streets for for survivors and victims at the site of Rana Plaza building that collapsed a day well over a century. They featured in the hit before. — AP 2013 Indian film “The Lunchbox” centering on the story of a wife whose home-cooked meals were collected by a dabbawallah and then MUMBAI: In this photograph taken on September 2, 2015, an Indian worker packs lunch boxes Nepal PM cancels US visit delivered, incorrectly, to a stranger’s office at an online meal delivery firm’s kitchen. rather than her husband’s. ups, and people keep switching from one tiffin Maqsood Patel, co-founder of Foodizm, another But now many of the meals inside the tin for talks on constitution service to another,” said Jain. online meal delivery firm, said his company was containers that clatter against each other as Tina Parikh, an office worker in the south of increasingly opting for a concierge service to fer- KATHMANDU: Nepal’s Prime Minister United Nations General Assembly next they hang from the dabbawallahs’ rickety bicy- the city, said she orders from a company called ry lunches to their “elite” clientele. Sushil Koirala yesterday cancelled plans to week about the new constitution, the first cles are handpicked on the Internet by busy SoulCare because it allows her to focus on her “They deliver the meals right to the cus- visit the United States so he can hold talks to be drawn up by elected representatives professionals enjoying a wealth of choice. job. “It’s purely about convenience. Early in the tomers’ desks, whereas the dabbawallahs often on a new constitution that has triggered in the Himalayan nation. The ongoing Yummy Tiffins, which proudly bills itself as morning, to cook meals and then come to work drop them at the front gate and you have to go deadly protests in parts of the country. protests have sparked concern in neighbor- “India’s first customized online tiffin service”, gets a little tiring,” she told AFP, collecting her tif- downstairs to look for your meal,” Patel told AFP. Koirala will meet regional parties opposed ing India, which has traditionally exerted allows users to design their own menus from fin from a handcart. “Also, since they travel by train there can be a to the new charter adopted on Sunday, his significant political influence in Nepal. around 40 dishes for every day of the week up Her friend Vinayak Azad has stuck to home- three or four-hour gap from the time a dab- to a month in advance. foreign adviser told AFP. Plans to divide the In a sharply worded statement, New cooked food but joked that he may consider bawallah collects the meal to the time it’s deliv- country into seven provinces under a fed- Delhi said it had “repeatedly cautioned the switching to one of the many low-calorie alter- ered. “Obviously with the food travelling in the ‘Whatever you want’ eral structure have infuriated some parties. political leadership of Nepal to take urgent natives whipped up by professional chefs that heat something like a salad can go a little bit off,” “We wanted to fill the gap between a tiffin They say the new internal borders will steps to defuse the tension in these are on offer. “There are a lot of good services he added. Patel said the drivers’ English was service, which has the same old pattern of food, leave some historically marginalized regions”. “We still hope that initiatives will around and I think I should try them considering often better than that of the dabbawallahs who and a restaurant, where you can order whatever groups under-represented in the national be taken by Nepal’s leadership to effective- my tummy is still out even with home food!” hail from rural Maharashtra and speak Marathi, you want, by providing customers with a choice parliament. ly and credibly address the causes underly- Yummy Tiffins employs Mumbai’s famously making it easier to communicate, while cus- of options that still have a homely feel,” said More than 40 people have died in ing the present state of confrontation.” The efficient dabbawallahs who deliver lunches to tomers can also use a mobile app to track the founder Pratik Jain. “There’s a lot of variety in the weeks of clashes between police and pro- charter is the final stage in a peace process around 200,000 people a day via trains, bicycles progress of deliveries. menu, not just Indian food but international too, testers belonging mainly to the Madhesi that began when Maoist fighters laid down and handcarts using a complex color-coded But Medage, president of the Nutan Mumbai and plenty of healthy options as well,” the 29- and Tharu ethnic minorities, who inhabit their arms in 2006 after a decade-long alpha-numeric system admired the world over. Tiffin Box Suppliers’ Association, is unconcerned. year-old former management student told AFP. the southern plains bordering India. insurgency aimed at abolishing an auto- Their business model has been recognized by “We are still getting fresh recruits from villages The website, which Jain says has around 300 “Because of the domestic political situa- cratic monarchy and creating a more equal Harvard as working to a “six sigma” rating, mean- because not many opportunities exist there. users a day and is growing at around 70 percent tion, Prime Minister Sushil Koirala will not society. But rights groups including ing it is virtually unheard of for a lunch to be With hard work they can make at least 10,000 a year, has teamed up with a nutritionist who go to the US,” said Dinesh Bhattarai, the Amnesty International have criticized the delivered to the wrong place. rupees ($150) a month instead of nothing back designs low-calorie meals to attract health-con- adviser. “He will stay home... so he can hold constitution, saying it discriminates against home.” Suresh Pawar, a dabbawallah for 12 scious customers. “It’s a competitive business talks with political parties opposed to the women by making it more difficult for Dabbawallah competition years, said: “The number we deliver goes up and with lots of players in the market. It’s much more constitution.” mothers to pass on citizenship to their chil- But some caterers are moving away from the down. When one stops here, another starts professional now with several tech-savvy start- Koirala was scheduled to address the dren compared with fathers. — AFP dabbawallahs in favor of private delivery vans. somewhere else.” — AFP India and US agree to deepen Closer strategic partnership

WASHINGTON: The world’s largest democracies, India and the fight terrorism and climate change and to bolster cooperation United States, agreed measures to deepen their security and in energy, hi-tech and defense. US Secretary of State John Kerry economic cooperation on Tuesday, part of an ambitious drive said: “The US-India relationship is a bright spot on the interna- to boost trade between them five-fold. After the talks, US tional landscape and is one of the most important bilateral rela- Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker admitted that the idea of tionships in the world. “Our talks today have given us a platform increasing exchanges from $100 billion to $500 billion a year for further progress ... There are so many areas of cooperation. was “a big audacious goal,” but said the meeting had left her There is so much going on between us.” very optimistic. The “US-Indian Strategic and Commercial Dialog,” was Commercial ties launched in January by President Barack Obama and Prime Indian officials had said that their priority for the talks was Minister Narendra Modi, and on Tuesday US and Indian eco- reinforcing commercial ties and securing access to US inward nomic and diplomatic officials came together in Washington. investment and technology, but also hailed a joint determina- “The president and the prime minister set out a goal for us ... tion to fight terrorism. “A main take away from our discussions and I think there’s a lot of opportunity,” Pritzker said. “What includes our shared view that we need to keep the big picture, feels new is the amount of energy that the Indian government the strategic framework of the relationship in mind,” Indian is putting in to trying to remove the impediments that have Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj told reporters. been faced by foreign companies trying to do business in On Tuesday, India cleared a $2.5 billion dollar deal to buy 22 India.” Apache helicopter gunships and 15 heavy-lift Chinooks from US Asked how long it would take to increase trade five fold, planemaker Boeing. The talks set up a meeting in New York Pritzker said no deadline had been set but added: “When you next week on the sidelines of the United Nations General set big audacious goals, it helps move bureaucracies, and that’s Assembly between Obama and Modi, whose four-day visit what’s happening. “We’ve got to change the way we do busi- begins September 24. ness,” she said. The talks came as President Xi Jinping of India’s “And then we have a very robust discussion regarding coun- Asian rival China arrived in the United States, two days before terterrorism, the Indian Ocean, maritime security, the South Modi was due, but US officials insisted there was no plan to China Sea, the South Asian challenges of the moment,” Kerry build up India as a counterweight to Beijing. said. Kerry, Swaraj and Pritzker were joined by India’s minister of Instead, they celebrated what Obama has dubbed the state for commerce and industry Nirmala Sitharaman and US NEW DELHI: An Indian man posing as a militant aims a weapon near a participant acting as a hostage during a mock “defining relationship of the 21st Century” with agreements to Energy Secretary Ernies Moniz for the talks. — AFP terror drill at a cinema hall yesterday. The drill was organized by Delhi Disaster Management Authority. — AFP THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 INTERNATIONAL

Anger in Taiwan after china introduces new entry card

TAIPEI: A new electronic entry card for irrespective of Taiwan and has hurt the China, but the policy is aimed at down- province of Fujian for two months. China again turned against closer ties with Taiwanese visitors to China has sparked feelings of Taiwan people,” it said in a grading Taiwan to the level of Hong says it is part of wider measures to Beijing, with voters saying trade deals protests and a political backlash despite statement. Taiwan’s Premier Mao Chi- Kong and Macau (both semi- reduce barriers with Taiwan. have been agreed in secret and have not Beijing touting the move as a way to kuo also said he was “extremely dissatis- autonomous regions of China),” TSU Visitors used to need two docu- benefited ordinary citizens. make travel easier. China introduced the fied” adding that he had been given no spokesman Chang Chao-lin said yester- ments-a paper visa and an entry permit- Tensions flared earlier this year when card on Monday after announcing it in prior notice of the move. day. to enter China. Now they just need the Beijing rejected Taipei’s bid to become a June, but Taiwanese authorities say they Around 20 members of the anti- Self-ruling Taiwan split from China at electronic card, which will replace the founding member of a China-led Asian were not told of the roll out. China Taiwan Solidarity Union (TSU) the end of a civil war on the mainland in old paper document and be valid for Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). The island’s Mainland Affairs Council- threw eggs and let off firecrackers out- 1949, but Beijing still sees the island as five years. Ties between China and There was also anger over its decision to its top China policy decision-making side Beijing-friendly president Ma Ying- part of its territory awaiting reunifica- Taiwan have improved markedly since inaugurate a new flight route near body-said there had not been “proper jeou’s residence Tuesday night in tion. It does not recognize Taiwanese 2008 after Ma came to power promising Taiwan and in response to a military drill communication” in advance of the protest. “The cards may benefit some passports. The card had already been on to beef up trade and tourism links. But carried out against a backdrop that launch. “The way they are doing this is Taiwanese businessmen and students in trial for visitors to the southern Chinese recently public sentiment has once resembled Taipei. — AFP Six more Bangkok bomb conspirators arrested

KUALA LUMPUR/BANGKOK: Malaysia has confirm since it is an ongoing investigation,” arrested six people suspected of being part of Ayob said. Malaysia’s arrests are the latest a human trafficking network and who may pieces in a puzzle pointing toward a connec- have helped a bomber who killed 20 people tion to Uighurs that Thai authorities have at a Bangkok shrine last month escape from sought to play down. Thai police have ruled Thailand, police said yesterday. The suspects out a political motive linked to Uighurs for joined two people already in Malaysian the blast, suggesting instead the reason was detention who may have helped the bomber, that a human trafficking gang was angered who Thai police said was a foreigner of by a police crackdown. unknown identity, flee across southern A Thai police investigator who had just Thailand’s border with Malaysia, police in returned from Malaysia confirmed the sus- both countries said. pected bomber was not among the latest Four of the six people arrested last week suspects, who were likely part of the traffick- were believed to be minority Uighur Muslims, ing network. The Uighur issue could be a who come from China’s far western Xinjiang thorny one for Thailand and any substantive region, said Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, direc- link between the bombing and Thailand’s tor of the Malaysian police counter-terrorism forced repatriation of 109 Uighurs at China’s unit. Thai police have made two arrests over behest in July could result in criticism that its the Aug. 17 blast, Thailand’s worst ever foreign policy may have triggered the attack. bombing, that killed 20 people, including 14 “They are not terrorists because they foreigners, seven from Hong Kong and main- haven’t announced what they want,” Thai land China. The chief suspect is a man in a police spokesman Prawut Thawornsiri told yellow shirt caught on security camera reporters yesterday. Thousands of Uighurs footage leaving a backpack at the shrine. He have tried to flee China saying they face per- was implicated by a man in Thai detention secution, which Beijing rejects. Many use traf- who admitted to delivering the bag contain- ficking networks through Southeast Asia to ing the bomb to him, police say. Ayob told Turkey, where they are largely welcomed and SEATTLE: Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks during his welcoming banquet at the start of his visit to the United States, at Reuters the six were not directly linked to the have ethnic and religious affinity. Suspects bombing but to a human-trafficking gang. believed to be Turkish and Thais living in the Westin Hotel. — AFP “We believe that they facilitated the move- Turkey are among those on Thailand’s wanted Xi calls for less ‘suspicion’ in ment of the yellow-shirt man but we cannot list for the bombing. — Reuters US-China ties ahead of talks ‘Conflict would lead to worldwide disaster’

SEATTLE: China’s president on Tuesday called for less executives of some of the largest US businesses, includ- former visits to Seattle and knowing references to popu- “suspicion” in ties between the world’s top two ing Boeing, Amazon, DuPont, IBM and Microsoft, all of lar US culture, including the romance comedy “Sleepless economies, ahead of landmark talks later this week with whom have substantial business in China. “We will in Seattle.” Defending his government’s crackdown on US President Barack Obama. Xi Jinping’s comments, at a address legitimate concerns of foreign investors in a corruption, he quipped: “This has nothing to do with keynote speech in the commercial hub of Seattle, came timely fashion.” power struggle. This is no ‘House of Cards’.” But he also as US aerospace giant Boeing reportedly clinched a deal On the hacking issue, he said China itself is a victim took pains to remind Washington that China has been a with Chinese firms to sell 300 aircraft. and was ready to set up a “high-level” mechanism with responsible partner and team player in dealing with “We want to see more understanding and trust and the United States to discuss the problem. “The Chinese crises from Ebola to North Korea’s nuclear threat to less estrangement and suspicion,” said Xi, whose coun- government will not in whatever form engage in com- global warming, as well as acting to support the world try has seen somewhat strained ties with the United mercial theft or encourage or support such attempts by economy in the 2008 financial crisis. States on several issues. “Conflict and confrontation” anyone.” At the same time, he suggested that US threats And, following on from his comments on his govern- between the two powers “would lead to disaster for to sanction Chinese officials over the alleged hacking ment’s anti-corruption fight, he pointed a direct finger both countries and the world at large,” stressed Xi. were out of line, saying cyber theft was a crime that had at the US government’s allowing Chinese wanted for Ahead of talks with the Obama administration later to be prosecuted “in accordance with law.” corruption to hide in the United States. He called for this week on hot-button issues like China’s expanding He also stressed that China’s economic downturn Washington’s cooperation “so that corrupt elements will presence in the South China Sea, cyber theft and was temporary and that the government was on top of be denied an overseas safe haven.” He also responded to KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian police Deputy Inspector Gen Noor Rashid human rights, Xi sought to convince an audience of recent market turmoil. “At present all economies are fac- criticisms that China’s tough new security law will effec- Ibrahim gestures as he speaks during a press conference at the police head- mostly businessmen and US state officials that China ing difficulties and our economy is also under general tively outlaw foreign non-governmental organizations, quarters. — AP was a positive force in the global economy and was pressure,” Xi said. “China’s stock market has reached the saying the country welcomed and would protect those pushing forward with reforms based on rule of law and phase of self-recovery and self-adjustment,” he said. Xi is whose activities “are beneficial to the Chinese people.” market principles. China’s foreign policy priority was to spending two days in Seattle meeting with the gover- But he also stressed they had to obey Chinese law: build what he described as a “new model” of relation- nors of US states with substantial trade and investment “On their part, foreign NGOs in China need to obey Woman charged ship with Washington based on “non-confrontation, ties to China, and the businesses themselves, sending a Chinese law and carry out activities in accordance with non-conflict, mutual respect and willing cooperation,” message to the White House that US companies need the law.” White House National Security Advisor Susan said the president. “We must read each other’s strategic China. Rice met Tuesday with several representatives from intentions correctly.” among the universities, businesses and rights groups in ‘balloongate’ ‘No House of Cards’ that would be forced to register and report to the ‘Legitimate concerns’ Xi was introduced by legendary US diplomat Henry Chinese security services if the draft law enters into KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian woman was With a group of supporters waiting outside Xi vowed to treat US investors in China fairly and Kissinger, who made the first secretive effort in 1971 to force. “Today’s discussion focused on concerns that the charged yesterday with insulting scandal- a Kuala Lumpur court bearing yellow balloons, fight against commercial cyber theft, a growing com- restore long-broken relations with China and who draft legislation would further narrow space for civil tainted Prime Minister Najib Razak by drop- Bilqis was charged inside with “insulting plaint against China by American businesses. “We praised Xi as the man able to take the relationship to a society in China,” the White House said in a statement ping balloons bearing pro-democracy mes- behavior” that could affect public order. “You respect the international business norms of non-dis- new level. The Chinese leader charmed his audience that came hours after the Chinese leader landed in the sages near him during a public event, her can’t just say you have insulted someone and crimination,” he told an audience that included the chief with quotes from Martin Luther King, recollections of United States. — AFP lawyer said. The case against Bilqis Hijjas- charge them in court for dropping balloons,” dubbed “Balloongate” on social media-has said Bilqis’ lawyer Michelle Yesudas, calling the drawn public ridicule as an example of gov- charges “utterly ridiculous”. The penalty for the ernment overkill in pressuring its critics. charge is a mere 100 ringgit ($23), but Bilqis Philippine kidnappers haul Bilqis Hijjas, 36, a dance producer, dropped was contesting it on “principle,” Yesudas said. yellow balloons with the words “justice,” Bilqis is free on bail. Najib is under intense fire “democracy” and “media freedom” from an over allegations of huge sums missing from a upper floor of a shopping mall while Najib state-owned firm he launched, and mysterious hostages into mountains and his wife officiated a function down below. transfers of nearly $700 million into his own The incident occurred on August 31, one day bank accounts. Najib has denied wrongdoing after tens of thousands of yellow-shirted pro- but has moved to quash the allegations by SAMAL: Gunmen holding three foreigners and one pings of foreigners and locals in the conflict-plagued remote mountains and isolated fishing communities. testers paralyzed the capital Kuala Lumpur sacking officials and going after whistleblow- Filipina hostage slipped past a naval cordon and south since the 1990s, which have been typically carried “Our scout rangers are following their tracks. They are with massive demonstrations demanding ers. Critics of Najib’s government say it routine- escaped to remote mountains in the southern out by Islamic militants seeking to extort ransoms. on their trail. The air force is also helping, ready for Najib’s ouster over allegations of corruption ly pressures the opposition and other oppo- Philippines, leaving few clues to their identities, police “Rest assured, our security sector will not stop until insertion,” Aquino, the police commander, told DZBB and abuse of power. nents with a range of charges. — AFP said yesterday. Elite army troops were trying to track the they catch this group,” President Benigno Aquino told radio. He said “intelligence” sources had informed bandits while air force helicopters were readied for a reporters. The president’s assurance echoed comments police that the gunmen reached Davao Oriental on possible rescue as the gunmen trekked into Davao made by the nation’s leaders whenever a foreigner has Tuesday night, but he acknowledged authorities still Oriental province, a hotbed of Maoist and Islamic rebels, been kidnapped, but the captives’ releases have gener- did not know the gunmen’s identities or motives. “We said Senior Superintendent Aaron Aquino, the region’s ally only been secured with ransom payments. are waiting for contact from the kidnappers so we will deputy police commander. Adding to concerns about the captives, police said know their demands,” he said. Canadian tourists John The gunmen seized the Norwegian manager of a yesterday the gunmen had evaded a naval blockade Ridsdel, 68, and Robert Hall, 50, were among those luxury island resort on Monday night, along with two around Samal Island, where the abductions took place. abducted, police said. The other foreigner was the Canadian tourists and one of their local girlfriends. The The gunmen had sailed about 50 kilometers east to Norwegian resort manager, Kjartan Sekkingstad, 56, victims were aboard yachts anchored at the resort’s Davao Oriental, a poor region on the far southeastern and the local woman was Hall’s 40-year-old Filipina girl- marina. The abductions added to a string of kidnap- edge of Mindanao Island close to Indonesia with friend, identified only as Tess.

Chilling footage Chilling footage from the resort’s surveillance cameras emerged yesterday showing the gunmen walking their hostages along a jetty at the marina. In the footage, broadcast by local television networks, a shirtless and bearded male hostage was seen shaking off the grip on his arm of one of the rifle-wielding men, but still not daring to try and run away. The three others appeared to have been hauled from their beds, with one male hostage shirtless and with a blanket wrapped around his waist. The woman walking next to him was in a night gown. Investigators said they were looking at the possible involvement of communist guerillas or Islamic rebels excluded from a MINDANAO: A combination made from undated handout photos released by Eastern peace treaty signed in 2014 with the government, JAKARTA: Indonesian workers weld part of a train wagon after a packed according to police. Communist and Islamic rebels Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) on September 22, 2015 shows Norwegian have been waging decades-long struggles that have commuter train slammed into the back of another at a station in the employee Kjartan Sekkinstad (left), 56, and Canadian tourists John Ridsdel (center), claimed tens of thousands of lives. The impoverished Indonesian capital yesterday injuring at least 35 people, according to an 68, and Robert Hall (right), 50, the three kidnapped foreigners who were seized by southern Mindanao region, including Davao Oriental, official. TV footage showed the two trains crushed together, with consider- gunmen from aboard yachts just before midnight on September 21 on Samal island, has proved fertile recruiting grounds and sanctuary for able damage to the front end of one and the back of the other, and emer- a short boat ride from the southern commercial centre of Davao. — AFP both groups. — AFP gency workers carrying the injured out on stretchers. — AFP N E W S THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 Muslim Americans welcome first NY Eid school holiday

NEW YORK: New York marks a milestone in the fight for equal- “It’s a very tense time,” Sarsour told AFP. “No one can talk about ity Thursday when 1.1 million children in America’s largest Islam without talking about terrorism.” In the last two weeks school district will take the day off to mark Eid Al-Adha. It is a alone, a Sikh American was so viciously beaten in Chicago and small but hard-won victory at a time when American Muslims called a “terrorist” because of his dark skin, beard and turban complain of growing Islamophobia and worsening anti- that he wound up in the hospital. In Detroit, a mosque was Muslim rhetoric following the 9/11 attacks in 2001. For the first refused planning permission and in Texas, a 14-year-old time, more than 1,800 public schools in New York will close for Muslim teenager who is the son of Sudanese immigrants was the Muslim feast of sacrifice, a day after also closing for Yom arrested for building a clock that teachers thought was a Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. bomb. Mayor Bill de Blasio unveiled the new policy in March, At the weekend, Republican candidate for president, announcing that New York public schools would get two days African-American retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson, said a off for Eid Al-Fitr, which falls during the summer, and Eid Al- Muslim should not be president of the United States. Adha, in addition to major Christian and Jewish holidays. Since Billionaire Donald Trump, top of the Republican polls in the then, city hall has added a further day off-February 8, 2016 — 2016 race, was roundly condemned for not challenging a town for Lunar New Year, celebrated by Asian-Americans. hall questioner who said Barack Obama was a foreign-born “It is a huge victory to actually see the day come,” says Linda Muslim. Sarsour, a member of the Coalition for Muslim School Holidays Then there are daily headlines about extremists in Syria, and a New York activist with three children. “As an imam as arrests of American sympathizers and Islamist terrorism that well as a parent I am very happy,” agreed Imam Shamsi Ali, many say feeds paranoia about Muslims in the United States. director of the Jamaica Muslim Center in Queens. “I’m sure this Ibrahim Hooper, spokesman for the Council on American- kind of policy from the government side will push Muslims fur- Islamic Relations (CAIR), the country’s largest Muslim civil liber- ther to feel a sense of belonging,” he said. ties organization, agreed that the holiday comes at the right Muslim New York parents previously faced a quandary: time. “Amidst a spike in anti-Muslim sentiment and anti- keep their children at home to observe the holiday and skip Muslim rhetoric in our society as we see with Trump, Ben class, or send them to school and let celebrations fall by the Carson, and the arrest of a Muslim teenager, which sends a wayside. There are an estimated seven to 10 million Muslims in negative message, this sends a very positive message of inclu- America, of whom a million are believed to live in New York- sion,” he said. about 10 percent of the city’s population. New York follows at But if New York sets a precedent, it is still an uphill strug- least seven other school districts that close for Eid in New gle. “It was fabulous, oh my gosh!” enthused activist Zainab Jersey, Massachusetts and Vermont, but activists are still cam- Chaudry, who was disappointed when Montgomery coun- paigning in other parts of the country. ty in Maryland refused to make Eid a day off and removed Activists hope that embracing Eid in the school calendar all religious references to pre-existing Christian and Jewish An Afghan woman leads a sheep at a livestock market ahead of the sacrificial Eid Al-Adha festival in Herat will make Islam more mainstream and counter Islamophobia. holidays. — AFP yesterday. — AFP

Pilgrims throng Arafat as hajj reaches... Sisi pardons two Jazeera journos Continued from Page 1 potential transmission of the deadly Middle East Continued from Page 1 palace in 2014. The two women were charged with Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). The holding an illegal protest, under a law that bans all but There they will gather pebbles for a symbolic stoning capital saw a jump in infections last month, but health After their sentencing last month, Egypt summoned police-sanctioned protests, and sentenced to three of the devil ritual today, which is also the Eid Al-Adha officials say there has never been a case of MERS infec- the British ambassador to Cairo for criticizing the ruling. years in jail. No official list was immediately issued of feast of sacrifice marked by the world’s more than 1.5 tion among pilgrims. The health ministry has mobilized The United States and the United Nations had led calls those pardoned yesterday, leaving it unclear whether billion Muslims. thousands of medical workers to help ensure a virus- for the journalists’ release. Their arrest in December other secular activists such as Alaa Abdel Fattah and The day spent in Mount Arafat is one of the few free pilgrimage and to care for routine ailments. 2013 came at a time of heightened unrest and a deadly Ahmed Maher were included. It was also not known if times during the hajj that all pilgrims are in the same Pilgrims began the hajj on Tuesday by entering ihram, a crackdown on the Muslim Brotherhood following the pardon covered Mahmoud Abu Zeid, a photogra- location at the same time - and is often described as the state of purity in which they must not quarrel, wear per- Islamist president Mohamed Morsi’s overthrow by the pher arrested in August 2013 as hundreds of Islamist most moving experience of the hajj. “This is the place fume, or cut their nails or hair. During ihram, men wear military. At the time, Qatar, which owns Al-Jazeera, had protesters were killed in clashes with police clearing where the Prophet (PBUH)... had his last hajj all the way a seamless two-piece shroud-like white garment, while been supportive of the Islamists. two Cairo sit-ins. from Makkah to here. We are following his footsteps,” women must wear loose dresses, generally also white, Fahmy, who dropped his Egyptian citizenship to Thousands of Islamists, including Morsi, have been said Abdul Halim Yusuf-Ali, a 21 year-old Islamic studies exposing only their faces and hands. qualify for deportation like Greste, is expected to leave arrested since his overthrow, and scores sentenced to student from Kenya. The clothing emphasizes their unity, regardless of for Canada where has been offered a teaching post death. But the crackdown on the Islamists has also Yusuf-Ali was among thousands praying at Mount whether they spend the hajj in Makkah’s five-star hotels once he is freed. He has asked Sisi to return his Egyptian extended to secular leaning activists who had support- Arafat before sunrise yesterday. He said it was more or in shabby highrise hostels. “I’m hoping for mercy and citizenship, in a local newspaper article published yes- ed Morsi’s overthrow after his divisive year in power. Sisi, important than ever for Muslims to heed the words that Allah accepts our prayers,” said Pakistani pilgrim terday. The pardons yesterday came on the eve of the the former army chief who was elected president in from the Prophet’s (PBUH) last sermon, calling for unity Abdeghafour Abu Bakr, 38, who came with friends. Muslim holiday of Eid, when prisoner releases often 2014, remains popular with many Egyptians seeking sta- and equality. “It is very important because now Muslims’ “What is left of our Arab nation? Iraq was the symbol of take place in Muslim countries. bility and end to unrest in the wake of the country’s political situation is very chaotic and many Muslims are power and civilization. What happened to it now? Look Sisi has faced also mounting calls to release activists 2011 revolution that toppled longtime strongman Hosni being killed every day, and it is just the other way at Syria: the refugees are greater in number than the pil- such as Seif and Sallam, a human rights worker Mubarak. He has vowed to steer clear of court cases out around from what the Prophet emphasized,” Yusuf-Ali grims here,” said Egyptian Mohammed Rizq, 65. “I wish detained after a small protest outside the presidential of respect for the judiciary’s independence. — AFP added. everyone could come here. I am sure they would leave This year’s gathering is about the same size as last with a good heart because here Islam was born,” said year’s, with 1.4 million foreign pilgrims joining hundreds Abdullah, a Chinese convert to Islam. of thousands of Saudis and residents of the kingdom. Since the 2011 Arab uprisings, Iraq, Syria and Yemen They are undeterred by a construction crane collapse at have collapsed into civil war, Libya is paralyzed by con- Makkah’s Grand Mosque earlier this month that killed flict and refugee crises have upended life for many in 109 people, including foreign pilgrims. About 400 peo- Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey. Egypt remains politically ple were injured by the crane which was working on an fragile and Palestinians still have no state. Over break- expansion of Islam’s holiest site. fast, a group of pilgrims from different countries Previously marred by stampedes and fires that killed quizzed an Iraqi man who had fled an area controlled hundreds, the pilgrimage had been largely incident-free by the Islamic State militant group, which has seized for the past nine years after safety improvements. The swathes of Iraq and Syria and staged attacks elsewhere. hajj is among the five pillars of Islam and every capable “Islam is mercy. How did they turn it into a curse, a pun- Muslim must perform it at least once in a lifetime. This ishment?” said one man. year’s gathering takes place against a backdrop of Earlier, in the city of Makkah, a Yemeni pilgrim said increased jihadist violence in some Muslim countries, a he hoped peace might soon return to his country, surge of the potentially deadly MERS virus and the war where a Saudi-led Arab coalition this year joined the in Saudi Arabia’s neighbor Yemen. About 100,000 police government’s side in a civil war that has killed thou- have been deployed to secure pilgrimage sites and sands, including by its own airstrikes. “I have a million manage the crowds. wishes. The first and the last is to have the happy Yemen Authorities say they are on alert for possible attacks back: the free and united Yemen,” he said. A Syrian pil- by extremists, after Islamic State group jihadists grim simply called down curses on President Bashar Al- bombed security forces and Shiite mosques in the king- Assad, who is waging a war to end a four-year rebellion dom in recent months. This year’s hajj also comes with against his rule. “Bashar goes to hell,” was his wish. But Saudi Arabia leading an Arab coalition conducting air pilgrims also prayed for personal matters. Abdullah, the strikes and supporting local forces in Yemen against Chinese pilgrim, expressed his hopes for the coming Iran-backed rebels. Most Yemeni pilgrims performing year. “I wish my wife heals from her sickness, my son fin- the hajj this year already reside in the kingdom. ishes school and my manager gives me the promotion I CAIRO: Canadian Al-Jazeera English journalist Mohamed Fahmy (second left) and his Egyptian colleague Among other challenges facing Saudi authorities is deserve,” he said. — Agencies Baher Mohammed celebrate with their wives after being released from Torah prison yesterday. — AP THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 ANALYSIS

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Focus Foreign media rush to relinquish Russian assets

By Germain Moyon

new Russian law limiting foreign ownership of media has upended the sector, forcing compa- Anies to scramble to comply and throwing into doubt the fate of TV channels, glossy mags and news dailies. Adopted swiftly in an atmosphere of increased distrust of the West fuelled by the Ukraine crisis, the law signed by President Vladimir Putin last October orders media companies to have no more than 20 percent foreign ownership as of Jan 1, 2016. The legislation was allegedly needed to prevent “foreign meddling” and its patriotic undertones are VW needs to explain away software forcing international media groups to relinquish Russian assets by the end of the year or leave the once- By David Ingram and Joel Schectman employees intended by installing the software. US prose- Volkswagen is the third major automaker to face a US crim- booming market altogether. German publishing giant cutors generally must find evidence of intent to commit a inal investigation in recent years. Last year, Toyota Motor Axel Springer announced last week that it had sold all olkswagen AG will probably have to show there was crime - such as incriminating emails or information from Corp agreed to pay $1.2 billion to settle a charge that it of its Russian assets including GEO, OK! and the some legitimate reason to install software that led to cooperating witnesses - before they can charge someone. concealed a problem in its vehicles that caused them to Russian version of Forbes, to local publisher Alexander Vfalse vehicle emissions tests if it is to avoid US crimi- The installation of the devices is not necessarily evi- accelerate suddenly. This month, General Motors Co Fedotov. nal charges, lawyers said on Tuesday. The German dence of intentional misconduct, said Bruce Pasfield, a for- agreed to pay $900 million for hiding an ignition-switch The owner the Bild tabloid, Germany’s most-read automaker has admitted to US clean air regulators that in mer environmental prosecutor. Automakers sometimes defect from regulators and the public. newspaper, said that it has to leave Russia because some of its diesel cars it used a so-called “defeat device,” install such devices to allow vehicles to be tested under dif- Both GM and Toyota signed deals known as deferred- software designed to defeat emissions tests. As a result it is fering standards required by overseas regulators, said prosecution agreements that effectively put them on pro- being limited to a minority stake was “not acceptable”. almost certainly exposed to very large civil penalties that Pasfield, now at the law firm Alston & Bird. “You cannot bation and will allow the criminal charges to be dropped “When we entered the Russian market (in 2004), we could be imposed by the US government, said attorneys draw the conclusion that this is intentionally criminal,” he later. It may be difficult for Volkswagen to negotiate similar believed in the further economic development and with expertise in environmental prosecutions though not said. treatment depending on which Justice Department office liberalisation of the country,” president Ralph Buechi involved in the Volkswagen case. The Volkswagen investigation could end up as one of takes the lead in its investigation, Uhlmann said. The envi- said in a statement last week. “We regret that we now The criminal probe, which was confirmed by a source the first test cases of tougher new Justice Department ronmental crimes section has historically required compa- have to leave.” familiar with the matter on Tuesday, is likely to examine not guidelines that could lead to an increase in the number of nies to either plead guilty or take their chances at a trial, he Finland’s Sanoma media group sold its 33 percent only possible violations of the US Clean Air Act but also of prosecutions of corporate executives. David Uhlmann, for- said. stake in Vedomosti business daily in April to Russian broader statutes against wire fraud, false statements to mer chief of the Justice Department’s environmental Prosecutors are likely to consider criminal charges businessman Demyan Kudryavtsev. The newspaper is regulators and other crimes, the lawyers said. Individual crimes section, said criminal charges were almost certain if against individual executives at the company, lawyers said. one of Russia’s few remaining independent publica- employees are also likely to be investigated and could the allegations against Volkswagen are true, but he added This month, US Deputy Attorney General Sally Quillian potentially face criminal charges if wrongdoing is discov- the company could still find a defense. “If the software Yates said that under a new Justice Department policy tions with op-eds frequently critical of the govern- ered, the lawyers added. were installed for other purposes, Volkswagen would not companies would no longer get credit for helping prosecu- ment’s policies. The fate of the remaining shares in A Justice Department spokesman declined to comment. have a defense in any civil penalty action but could in a tors discover misconduct unless they turn over the execu- Vedomosti, which are owned by the Financial Times A Volkswagen spokesman did not respond to requests for criminal case,” said Uhlmann, now a University of Michigan tives responsible. Under that policy “it would be hard to see and The Wall Street Journal, is yet to be determined. comment on what the company’s legal strategy would be. law professor. It was not immediately clear whether how they could not carefully examine how individuals The legislation has sparked fears that the independ- Deliberately faking emissions results could be seen by Volkswagen would invoke such a defense. could be held criminally accountable,” said David Buente, a ent and liberal-leaning Forbes and Vedomosti publica- prosecutors as a multi-layered fraud against consumers, It was also not clear who is leading Volkswagen’s former prosecutor of environmental crimes who is now at tions, as well the Ekho Moskvy radio station, could be regulators and auto dealers, the lawyers said. But there will defense.The law firm Kirkland & Ellis, which was copied on the law firm Sidley Austin. “One of the key questions for stifled and face increasing pressure to tow the likely be a debate between the Justice Department and a letter on Friday from the US Environmental Protection prosecutors is how high up in the company this goes,” Kremlin’s line. Columnist Andrei Babitsky said the law Volkswagen’s legal team over what the company and its Agency to the automaker, declined to comment. Buente said. —Reuters stripped private media outlets of their “last defence against arbitrariness”, and market experts predicted it would decrease the number of publications, including Orban mobilizes troops, prisoners, jobless entertainment magazines. The law “is a political decla- ration: we want to be sovereign, we want media out- By Balazs Koranyi patcher for a construction firm specialising in “Public works people have an obligation to The tactic has worked. A survey out on lets to be controlled by patriots”, said Yekaterina earth moving equipment, described a frenzied work, otherwise they could lose their benefits,” Monday showed Orban’s Fidesz party leading its Schulmann of the Russian Academy of National uilt in a matter of weeks by soldiers, prison start. “They found us through the Internet, I just said Marta Varga, a spokeswoman for the nearest rival by 10 percentage points. Another Economy and Public Administration. labourers and cadres of the unemployed, a got a call from the military asking if I could do the Csongrad county government offices. They have showed 82 percent supported tighter immigra- Bvast new wall along Balkan frontiers is a job,” he said, asking that his surname not be used been paid at a monthly wage of around $220 for tion rules. In recent weeks he has been denounc- monument to the ruthless efficiency with which while discussing the process. “They had some- work on the fence, around half Hungary’s mini- ing European leaders for accelerating Europe’s Growing Market Prime Minister Viktor Orban has mobilised thing like two dozen private companies in the mum wage. She said no one had refused. migration crisis by abandoning any pretence of Russia’s RBK news site reported in June that authori- Hungary against migrants. Orban describes the project then. But we’re down to maybe a quarter defending its external borders. He reserves partic- ties were pondering softening the law -especially for arrival of hundreds of thousands of refugees and of that as the military is getting its house in order Fences, Dogs, Cops and Guns ular blame for Germany, which suspended nor- apolitical entertainment outlets - fuelling uncertainty other migrants in Europe this year from Asia, and replaces us with their own capacity.” The project has become a defining achieve- mal EU rules to announce in August it would wel- among industry observers. The Nasdaq-listed CTC Africa and the Middle East as an attack on the His firm gets paid 500 forints ($1.82) to drive a ment for Orban, a square-jawed former student come Syrian refugees no matter where they enter media, a Russian independent broadcaster, has yet to continent’s Christian welfare model. Until last fence post into the ground. A crew needs to com- activist who emerged in the early days after the bloc. Orban’s speeches and interviews have decide on a July offer by UTH holding of Russian bil- week, most trekked through Hungary, the main plete at least 200 in a day, 3 m apart, to break Communism at the helm of Hungary’s main included warnings that Europe’s Christian culture lionaire Alisher Usmanov to acquire a 75-percent stake overland entry route into the EU’s border-free even. The military schedule means working seven centre-right political party Fidesz. Now 52, is in jeopardy from Muslim migrants, a tone critics in the company. Pushed to the wall with few options, Schengen zone from the Balkan peninsula, which days a week. During the crunch when the defence Orban has made a career of defying what he say crosses a line into xenophobia. many foreign-owned media groups will be forced to they cross after arriving by dinghy in Greece. minister was dismissed, his team put in more than considers a weak-willed European consensus. After the fence went up last week and While Europe dithered over a collective 48 hours straight. Parts of the fence have been Jean-Claude Juncker, head of the EU’s executive Hungarian riot police used tear gas and water accept knock-down prices to comply with the law response, Hungary took matters into its own made by firms using prison labour. Convicts commission, jokingly greeted him as “Dictator” cannon on stone-throwing migrants, Romania’s before it comes into effect as the country grapples hands, shutting off the route with a new fence receive a small portion of the wages paid for their at an EU summit in May, offering a smile and a Prime Minister Victor Ponta even evoked the con- with a crippling economic crisis. along its entire 175 km border with Serbia, work; the rest goes to cover prison costs. slap on the neck. tinent’s darkest era - the rise of the Nazis. “Fences, Media companies have hurried to reduce their topped with razor wire and guarded by helmeted Inmates from a prison on the outskirts of From 2010 until this year, Fidesz held a two- dogs, cops and guns: this looks like Europe in the stakes or get rid of their Russian assets in recent weeks. riot police. It was erected at a cost of 22 billion Dunaujvaros, Hungary’s top steelmaking town, thirds supermajority in parliament which 1930s. And did we solve the refugee problem Swiss publisher Edipresse parted with 40 magazines in forints (about $80 million), a rare example of effi- make up about a third of the 500-strong work- allowed Orban to amend the constitution, con- with this? No, we didn’t,” Ponta said. “Erecting a the country, while US-based Disney and Discovery ciency in a country which built its last under- force at DAK Acelszerkezeti Kft., which worked on solidating his authority. He drew fire for steps fence only throws the problem into Serbia, into decided to remain on the Russian market, reducing ground metro line ten years behind schedule at steel fence posts. Managing Director Gabor which EU officials said undermined the inde- Croatia, into Romania.” ownership to required levels, with the remainder of triple the projected cost. Tarany said his company did not care about poli- pendence of the courts, central bank and the Orban’s opponents abroad say Hungary shares going to local partners. American mass media The government says it put the military in tics; an order is an order. “There’s no emotion in media. Realising early that migration would be a should be more compassionate, not least charge of the construction so that it could act steel; we build things and don’t ask or care what major issue, he moved quickly to stir public opin- because of its own history, including a 1956 upris- giant Viacom could also be forced to relinquish its con- more quickly. By swiftly mobilising state it’s used for.” The state has also mobilised unem- ion this year with a series of campaigns, ampli- ing against the Soviet Union when Russian guns trol of 12 television stations that broadcast in Russia, resources, the authorities also managed to turn ployed people who collect government benefits fied by friendly media, including a new state con- and tanks drove nearly 200,000 Hungarians to including Nickelodeon, to a conglomerate belonging the fence into a national project, immensely pop- through a public works program. trolled news channel. flee. But many Hungarians are having none of it. to Russian billionaire Viktor Vekselberg, RBK reported. ular at home even as it is denounced by They say that even if today’s migrants include “Russia is the fourth largest market in the world for European partners. “It took a while but the gov- refugees who have fled war, they have all arrived pay television in terms of the number of subscribers,” ernment’s campaign to rouse public opinion through safe countries such as Turkey and the said Olga Paskina, head of Discovery for North-East against the refugees is bearing fruit, and having Balkan states and are no longer in peril. “Did the Europe, in an interview with RBK. “The market is grow- brought much of the media under control is pay- Hungarian refugees ever attack the police in a ing (in Russia), as opposed to the United States where ing dividends,” said Richard Szentpeteri Nagy, an violent mob, throwing stones?” said Zoltan it is on the decline, or in Europe, where it is practically analysts at Centre for Fair Political Analysis. “By Nogradi, the mayor of Morahalom, a small town properly filtering the message through public tel- on the Serbian border. “There’s no comparison not growing at all.” —AFP evision, what viewers at home see is that this is a because if there was no fence, my town would mob, throwing stones and attacking police.” have already been swept away.” In just days since it shut the Serbian frontier, Hungary has already moved even faster to shut More Discreet All articles appearing on these the border with Croatia, which is inside the The government says putting the military in pages are the personal opinion of European Union but outside the Schengen zone. charge was the only way to build the fence quick- A 41-kilometre temporary fence was thrown up ly, exempting the state from cumbersome pro- the writers. Kuwait Times takes no within four days. Work is already underway on a curement laws. Some who worked on the project responsibility for views expressed permanent barrier, with machines clearing the say there are other benefits: Details can be kept therein. Kuwait Times invites read- land, fence posts driven into the ground and secret, and the army itself has learned from the razor wire rolled out. work. “It’s not just cheaper and quicker, it’s also ers to voice their opinions. Please more discreet,” said an engineer working on the send submissions via email to: opin- No Emotion in Steel Croatian border, who asked not be identified [email protected] or via snail The logistics are themselves a demonstration Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban (center) arrives to attend an because he was not authorised to speak to the mail to PO Box 1301 Safat, Kuwait. of Orban’s vision of a powerful state flexing its European Union (EU) emergency summit on the migration crisis with a focus media. “Soldiers don’t talk, prisoners can’t talk and muscle. The military initially called in private con- on strengthening external borders at the EU headquarters in Brussels yes- public works employees know it’s not in their The editor reserves the right to edit tractors, but after Orban forced out his defence best interest to talk. Politics aside, this is the best any submission as necessary. minister over the slow pace of work, soldiers terday, a day after interior ministers agreed a deal on refugee relocation logistical exercise the army had in years,” he swiftly took over most of the project. Janos, a dis- quotas. —AFP added. —Reuters THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 SPORTS

Chelsea doctor quits Kuwait Basketball Cowboys trade for Cassel LONDON: Eva Carneiro, the Chelsea team doctor publicly criticized by manager loses first match DALLAS: The Dallas Cowboys addressed some of their injury concerns on Jose Mourinho, has left the club, according to British media reports on Tuesday. Tuesday by acquiring quarterback Matt Cassel in a trade with the Buffalo Carneiro was removed from match-day duties last month after her and physiother- Bills. The Cowboys acquired Cassel because quarterback Tony Romo was CHANGSHA: Kuwait national basketball team lost its first placed on the injured list with a broken left collarbone and could miss half apist Jon Fearn were rebuked by Mourinho for running on to treat Eden Hazard match against Hong Kong 50-87 yesterday in the 28th FIBA Asia during Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with Swansea City on the season’s opening the season. Championship, currently being held in the Chinese city of weekend, which temporarily left his team with nine players. The Cowboys plan to start Brandon Changsha from 23 September-3 October. The big gap to the Several media outlets, including the BBC, said that Carneiro, Weeden in Romo’s absence with Cassel 42, had left Chelsea and was expected to launch a claim match’s outcome showed that the Kuwaiti team was not techni- serving as backup. The Bills sent a 2017 for constructive dismissal. Chelsea have not commented cally or physically prepared for the match, despite a good start seventh-round draft pick and Cassel to on the reports. It follows reports last week that Mourinho in the first set which ended to their favor. the Cowboys for a 2017 fifth-round pick. could face a five-match ban after a member of the public After the match, head of the delegation Khalil Taher said that Cassel only joined the Bills during the off- complained that the Portuguese had used sexist and he was satisfied with the players despite the huge gap in terms season but was beaten out for the start- abusive language against Carneiro. Following the of points at the end of the match, noting that the players’ per- ing job by Tyrod Taylor. Romo injured his Swansea game, Mourinho said: “I was unhappy with my formance was based on the preparation and training prior to shoulder Sunday and decided to medical staff. They were impulsive and naive. “Whether you the tournament. pass on surgery and let it are a kit man, doctor or secretary on the bench you have The 2015 FIBA Asia Championship for Men will be the 28th heal naturally. to understand the game.” Carneiro, born in Gibraltar continental basketball championship in Asia. The winner of the The typical recov- to a Spanish father and English mother, thanked tournament qualifies for the Basketball tournament in the 2016 ery time is eight people on Facebook for their support in the after- Summer Olympics, while the 2nd, 3rd and 4th placers will go weeks. He is eligible math of the incident, but has not spoken publicly under the FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament, as stat- to be activated on since. — AFP ed by FIBA and the IOC in qualification quota. — KUNA November 22. — AFP Yankees overpower Blue Jays 6-4

TORONTO: Greg Bird hit a three-run homer in them April 18 and May 10 with just seven hits the 10th inning and the New York Yankees beat and three runs allowed. the Toronto Blue Jays 6-4 Tuesday night to move closer in the AL East pennant race. Bird MARINERS 11, ROYALS 2 connected off reliever Mark Lowe (1-3) for the Robinson Cano homered twice and drove in rookie’s 10th home run in 34 games and third in four runs and Hisashi Iwakuma struck out a sea- the past three nights. Brian McCann led off the son-high 10 as the Mariners romped past the 10th with a bunt single and was replaced by slumping Royals. The AL Central-leading Royals pinch-runner Rico Noel. Slade Heathcott have dropped 12 of 17. Their magic number for reached on catcher’s interference before Bird clinching the division remained three. Cano and drove a 2-2 pitch into the right-field bullpen. Six Kyle Seager each hit solo homers in the first of his 10 homers have given the Yankees a lead. inning for Seattle, which has the league’s best Andrew Miller (3-2) pitched two innings for the record in September at 13-6 but is still three win and New York closed within 2 1/2 games of games under .500 (74-77). It was Seager’s 25th first-place Toronto. The teams meet for the final home run and his seventh in 23 games. Cano hit time this season Wednesday night. a three-run shot in a seven-run third inning for his 15th career multihomer game. Cano’s next CUBS 4, BREWERS 0 hit will be the 2,000th of his career. Iwakuma (9- Jake Arrieta threw a three-hitter to become 4), who is 7-2 in his past nine starts, curbed the the first pitcher in the major leagues to reach 20 Royals on three singles over seven scoreless wins, Kris Bryant set the Cubs rookie record for innings. He has allowed one run and 10 hits in home runs and Chicago inched closer to a play- 13 innings in his past two starts, while striking off berth with a victory over the Brewers. Arietta out 19 and walking one. (20-6) struck out 11 for Chicago, whose magic number for making its first postseason in seven PHILLIES 6, MARLINS 2 years dropped to three. The right-hander retired Cody Asche hit two home runs to help Aaron 14 in a row at one point in becoming the first Harang get his first victory in over a month as Cubs pitcher to win 20 games since Jon Lieber the Phillies beat the Marlins. It was Harang’s first in 2001. Bryant, whose April 17 debut was one win since July 30 against Atlanta, a span of eight of the most anticipated in years, hit a two-run starts. Harang (6-15) pitched seven innings, homer in the third off Tyler Cravy (0-8) to give allowing two runs and seven hits. Darin Ruf Chicago a 2-0 lead. It was Bryant’s 26th longball, homered and Freddy Galvis had three hits and besting Billy Williams’ mark in 1961. Bryant drove in two runs for the Phillies, who added a run-scoring double in the eighth. announced before the game that Pete Mackanin would be their manager for the 2016 ANGELS 4, ASTROS 3 season, dropping the interim title he had since Mike Trout and Albert Pujols hit back-to- taking over for Ryne Sandberg on June 26. back homers in the first inning and the Angels Marlins starter Tom Koehler (10-14) allowed four held on for an important victory over the Astros. runs, three earned, in five innings. Miguel Rojas The victory moves the Angels 2 1-2 games hit a two-run homer for the Marlins. Rojas is hit- behind Houston for the second American TORONTO: Greg Bird #31 of the New York Yankees slides safely into second base with a double in the first inning during MLB gameaction ting .343 (12 for 35) over his last 11 games. League wild-card spot. There was one on in the against the Toronto Blue Jays on September 22, 2015 at Rogers Centre in Toronto. — AFP first when Trout launched his 40th homer into total to 118. Jimenez walked five, but allowed two-run home run for the Giants, who beat the for a 3-2 lead. Mahtook added two runs in the CARDINALS 3, REDS 1 left-center to make it 2-0. The 36th home run just an unearned run on three hits while also Padres to pull within six games of first-place Los eighth with a homer that cleared the Green John Lackey pitched seven strong innings, this season by Pujols extended the lead to 3-0. striking out five. Monday’s opener was post- Angeles in the NL West. Time’s running out for Monster in left field. rookie Tommy Pham continued his productive Houston cut the lead to 1 when Marwin poned by rain. The teams are scheduled to play the defending World Series champion Giants, hitting and the Cardinals beat the Reds. Lackey Gonzalez and Chris Carter hit consecutive solo a makeup game today. who have only 12 games left. They trail the TWINS 3, INDIANS 1 (13-9) allowed only a first-inning homer by Jay shots in the second inning. The Angels added Chicago Cubs by 9 1-2 games for the second Ervin Santana pitched strong into the eighth Bruce during his 16th quality start in 16 outings an insurance run on an RBI single by Kole BRAVES 6, METS 2 wild card spot. The Giants have beaten the inning, Aaron Hicks and Brian Dozier each had at Busch Stadium. Calhoun in the eighth to help them snap a six- Rookie right-hander Matt Wisler stopped his Padres six straight times and eight of nine. San two hits and an RBI from the top two spots in The veteran right-hander struck out seven, game losing streak in Houston. Hector Santiago nine-start winless drought and the Braves Diego’s Tyson Ross (10-11) struck out 11 to tie Minnesota’s lineup, and the Twins beat the walked none and lowered his home ERA to 1.97. (9-9) allowed four hits and two runs in five-plus stalled the Mets’ push toward the NL East title. his career high. That gave him a career-high 205 Indians to start a critical series for the American St Louis improved to an MLB-best 95-56 with its innings. David Wright homered as the Mets lost for the for the season. His previous high was 195 last League wild card chasers. Santana (6-4) turned second straight low-scoring victory over fifth time in seven games. They held their 6 1/2- year. Brown got the start after catcher Buster in his fifth straight stellar start, surrendering five Cincinnati. Steve Cishek worked the ninth to PIRATES 6, ROCKIES 3 game lead over Washington. Down 4-1, the Posey was a late scratch. hits, one run and one walk while striking out earn his first save for St Louis. Pham hit a sacri- Starling Marte drove in two runs and the Mets loaded the bases with one out in the seven. He gave up two singles to start the fice fly to deep center in the seventh that scored Pirates closed in on their third straight playoff eighth. Edwin Jackson, Atlanta’s fourth pitcher DIAMONDBACKS 8, DODGERS 0 eighth, but Glen Perkins got three straight outs. Tony Cruz and broke a 1-all tie. Pham drove in berth by beating the Rockies. The Pirates of the inning, gave up a sacrifice fly to pinch-hit- Robbie Ray pitched six innings of three-hit Kevin Jepsen struck out two in the ninth inning the Cardinals’ first run with a third-inning dou- reduced their magic number to one for securing ter Michael Cuddyer and got Wilmer Flores on a ball, A.J. Pollock and Paul Goldschmidt hit back- for his eighth save in nine tries since replacing ble that brought in Matt Carpenter, who dou- at least an NL wild card. A win Wednesday grounder to protect the lead. Pinch-hitter to-back homers in the seventh, and the Perkins as the closer. Danny Salazar (13-9) struck bled with one out. Since moving into the lineup against the Rockies would clinch another trip to Adonis Garcia lined a two-out, two-run double Diamondbacks beat the Dodgers. The Dodgers out 21 batters over 13 innings in his first two eight games ago, Pham has nine RBIs, eight the postseason. Pittsburgh also kept pace with in the ninth off Mets reliever Tyler Clippard. lost their fourth straight game, equaling their turns against the Twins this season, beating extra-base hits and is batting .407. — AP NL Central leader St Louis. The Cardinals beat longest slide of the season, but they remain six Cincinnati to maintain a four-game lead over RANGERS 8, ATHLETICS 6 games ahead of the Giants in first place in the the second-place Pirates. Pittsburgh scored in Delino DeShields hit a go-ahead sacrifice fly NL West. The Diamondbacks have won the first each of the first four innings against Chris Rusin in the sixth four batters after Mitch Moreland two games of this four-game series after losing to build a 6-3 lead. connected for a tying two-run homer, and the their previous nine at Dodger Stadium. But the Rangers beat the Athletics to increase their lead Dodgers have aces for the next two - major ORIOLES 4, NATIONALS 1 in the AL West. Chi Chi Gonzalez (4-5) pitched league ERA leader Zack Greinke on Wednesday Ubaldo Jimenez pitched six gritty innings to two scoreless innings for the win in relief of and reigning NL Most Valuable Player Clayton earn his 100th career win and added an RBI sin- starter Martin Perez as the Rangers moved two Kershaw on Thursday. Ray (5-12) struck out sev- gle as the Orioles beat the Nationals in the rain- games ahead of Houston after the Astros lost 4- en, walked two and escaped a bases-loaded delayed opener of a series between teams fight- 3 at home to the Angels. DeShields hit another jam in the first inning. ing to remain in the playoff race. The 31-year- sacrifice fly in the eighth, while Shin-Soo Choo old Jimenez (12-9) won his third straight deci- and Adrian Beltre hit consecutive sacrifice flies in TIGERS 2, WHITE SOX 1, 10 innings sion for Baltimore, which began the night trail- the fifth to aid the Texas comeback. Jake Rajai Davis’ two-out triple in the 10th gave ing three teams and six games back for the AL’s Smolinski and Marcus Semien hit back-to-back Detroit a victory over the White Sox, one inning second wild card. The Nationals remained 6 1-2 RBI triples in the second to give the A’s 40 on the after the Tigers lost a combined no-hitter. games back of the Mets, who lost to Atlanta, in season, tying the Oakland record set in 1968. Anthony Gose drew a two-out walk from Zach the NL East division. But New York’s magic num- Duke (3-6) in the 10th. Davis sliced a 3-1 fastball ber to clinch the division dropped to six. Bryce GIANTS 4, PADRES 2 into the corner in right field and Gose easily Harper set the Nationals record for walks, get- Rookie Trevor Brown’s RBI double was his beat Trayce Thompson’s throw to the plate. ting three free passes that upped his season first major league hit and Angel Pagan had a Blaine Hardy (5-3) got the win with a scoreless 10th. The Tigers were two outs away from the first combined no-hitter in club history, but MLB results/standings Neftali Feliz, making his debut as the Tigers’ closer after Bruce Rondon was sent home earlier in the Baltimore 4, Washington 1; NY Yankees 6, Toronto 4 (10 innings); Detroit 2, Chicago White Sox 1 (10 day, couldn’t finish it. With one out, Tyler innings); Tampa Bay 5, Boston 2; Atlanta 6, NY Mets 2; Philadelphia 6, Miami 2; Chicago Cubs 4, Milwaukee Saladino tripled to break up the no-hitter and 0; Minnesota 3, Cleveland 1; Seattle 11, Kansas City 2; LA Angels 4, Houston 3; St. Louis 3, Cincinnati 1; Adam Eaton, who had broken up Detroit’s Pittsburgh 6, Colorado 3; Texas 8, Oakland 6; Arizona 8, LA Dodgers 0; San Francisco 4, San Diego 2. attempt at a perfect game by being hit with a American League National League pitch in the seventh, tied the game with a sin- Eastern Division Eastern Division gle. W L PCT GB NY Mets 85 66 .563 - Toronto 86 65 .570 - Washington 78 72 .520 6.5 RAYS 5, RED SOX 2 NY Yankees 83 67 .553 2.5 Miami 64 87 .424 21 Mikie Mahtook hit a two-run homer and Baltimore 74 76 .493 11.5 Atlanta 61 91 .401 24.5 Tampa Bay 73 78 .483 13 Matt Moore recovered from a difficult start to Philadelphia 57 94 .377 28 strike out seven as the Rays beat the Red Sox. Boston 72 78 .480 13.5 Central Division Central Division Moore (2-4) allowed two hits and walked two in St. Louis 95 56 .629 - the first inning as Boston took a 2-0 lead. Boston Kansas City 87 63 .580 - Pittsburgh 91 60 .603 4 Minnesota 77 73 .513 10 rookie Henry Owens was perfect through four Chicago Cubs 89 62 .589 6 Cleveland 74 75 .497 12.5 innings. Logan Forsythe led off the fifth with a Cincinnati 63 87 .420 31.5 Chicago White Sox 72 79 .477 15.5 double for Tampa Bay’s first hit and he scored Milwaukee 63 88 .417 32 Detroit 70 81 .464 17.5 on a sacrifice fly. Owens (3-3) unraveled in the Western Division Western Division sixth. Owens walked Richie Shaffer to start the LA Dodgers 85 65 .567 - Texas 81 69 .540 - inning and hit Brandon Guyer with one out. San Francisco 79 71 .527 6 Houston 80 72 .526 2 Mahtook singled to load the bases. Evan LA Angels 77 74 .510 4.5 Arizona 73 78 .483 12.5 San Diego 70 81 .464 15.5 Longoria hit a sacrifice fly to right and Tampa SAN DIEGO: Janelle Fejeran performs a dance with fire in celebration of ‘Pacific Islander Night,’ Seattle 74 77 .490 7.5 Bay got another run when Mookie Betts’ throw Oakland 64 87 .424 17.5 Colorado 63 88 .417 22.5 before the San Diego Padres took on the San Francisco Giants in a baseball game on Tuesday, home sailed high and ended up in the stands Sept 22, 2015. — AP THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 SPORTS South Africa ring changes after Japan humiliation

BIRMINGHAM: South Africa brought back big guns Etzebeth, Vermeulen and Le Roux-were all recalled such as Willie le Roux and Duane Vermeulen to tack- to the starting lineup. Adriaan Strauss, who will win le Samoa in the World Cup on Saturday in eight his 50th cap, is the starting hooker. changes to the team stunned by Japan. However, Vermeulen will make his first Test appearance of hard-man hooker Bismarck du Plessis, 31, was the year in the No 8 jersey. He had neck surgery in dropped but 38-year-old lock Victor Matfield, per- July. “Duane has been one of the stalwarts of this suaded to come out of retirement by coach team and it’s great to have him back in the mix,” said Heyneke Meyer, retained his place. Despite being Meyer. “He is one of the best loose forwards in the criticized for the age of the side that lost 34-32 to world and apart from being a superb ball-carrier Japan last weekend, Meyer has named an even and also a great line-out option, he is also good on more experienced line-up, with a new record 891 the ground and brings leadership to the team.” Le caps between them for the Pool B game against Roux, Pietersen and De Allende returned in the Samoa in Birmingham. “The last few days have been backline, with Fourie du Preez and Handre Pollard a time for retrospection and the team this week has forming a new half-back pairing after scrum-half been selected specifically with Samoa in mind, as Ruan Pienaar and fly-half Pat Lambie were dropped we know we’ll have to be at our very best to suc- to the bench. ceed,” Meyer said on Wednesday. In the pack, Etzebeth was one of three changes “They will pose a massive challenge and I think to the starting line-up with Vermeulen and Strauss. it’s fair to say that it’s the biggest game of the sea- On the bench, Schalk Brits, 34, and Frans Malherbe son for us. They have a very strong team with play- made their first appearances on a Rugby World Cup ers plying their trade all over the world,” he added. teamsheet. “It’s been a very tough week after the Springbok captain Jean de Villiers, 34, escaped the massive disappointment of last weekend and we cull despite calls in South Africa for him to be owe our supporters a winning performance on replaced. He will move from inside to outside cen- Saturday,” said Meyer. Meyer added he was looking tre. But the ongoing row in South Africa over the for “energy and unpredictability” in the team. “It racial composition of the side part of the process of means some players have dropped out of the squad post-apartheid ‘transformation’-which intensified altogether but this is a 31-man campaign and they after the Japan defeat, is sure to be revived again BIRMINGHAM: The official logo of the 2015 Rugby Union World Cup is seen on a giant rugby ball in will have other chances, but we needed to make given there are now only six non-white players in Birmingham, central England yesterday. — AFP changes after Saturday’s performance.” Of those Meyer’s matchday 23 to play Samoa, compared to JP Pietersen and Bryan Habana, centre Damian de on the pitch at any one time, although this is an who started the match against Japan, full-back seven last time out. Allende and prop Tendai Mtawarira all in South aspiration rather than a strict requirement. Three Zane Kirchner, centre Lwazi Mvovo, back-rower However, as was the case for the shock loss to Africa’s 1st XV. The government ‘target’ is to have players nominated for the World Rugby player of Pieter-Steph du Toit and hooker Du Plessis all failed Japan, four non-white players will start with wings seven non-white players in a matchday 23 and five the year award over the last two years-Eben to make the matdhday 23. — AFP Sam Burgess can be England’s Sonny Bill

BAGSHOT: Sam Burgess could give the what’s best for the team,” Farrell added. If same boost to England at the World Cup as Joseph is unfit England, who like Wales — fellow code-hopper Sonny Bill Williams has 54-9 winners over Uruguay last weekend - to defending champions New Zealand, are due to announce their team on Thursday according to backs coach, Andy Farrell. for a fixture in a ‘Pool of Death’ also featuring Burgess has raw power and physicality, but Australia, face a conundrum with Brad a lack of rugby union experience and just Barritt, Henry Slade and fly-half Owen Farrell, one season at Bath and 112 minutes of Test in his second string role of centre, all in con- rugby. His case highlights the tendency to tention for a midfield berth. England coach view rugby league converts as that of an Stuart Lancaster has used a remarkable 13 impact substitute at the World Cup. Burgess different midfield combinations since taking impressed off the bench during England’s charge in 2012. Meanwhile No 8 Billy opening 35-11 win over Fiji last week. Vunipola is pushing hard for a starting spot Now a chest injury to first-choice centre in place of Ben Morgan, doubtful with a Jonathan Joseph has opened up the possi- knee problem, after making his mark off the bility of Burgess starting in the crunch Pool bench against Fiji. A match against Wales at Twickenham on Last month, Wales coach Warren Saturday. Farrell, who like Burgess made his Gatland, before his side were beset by an name in rugby league before switching, injury crisis, said England were “not 100 believes the Bath powerhouse could pro- percent sure of where they are going” and vide England with the kind of dynamic suggested they did not know their best midfield presence the All Blacks have come team. But Farrell said: “Everyone is so to expect from Williams. “It depends intrigued by selection because we’re in a whether you want to make the impact (off great position. Is it Billy, is it Ben? Is it Sam, the bench) or make that impact from the is it Brad? Is it this, is it that? “It’s only like start. “The start of the game is pretty that-people trying to work it out - because important as well; how you get off and how we have so many options-but for us it is you make the other team feel,” Farrell told brilliant because we know they can all do it reporters at England’s training base in and they are pushing each other to do it.” Bagshot, southwest of London, on Tuesday. Farrell added: “No-one says he (Joseph) is RICHMOND: Linda Melanie Villumsen of New Zealand, turns onto second street during the women’s elite time trials at the UCI Road World out. “We are not worried about any sce- Championships cycling races in Richmond, Va on Tuesday, Sept 22, 2015. — AP More than impact nario. That is why you pick the squad you “I wouldn’t just pigeon-hole him do in the first place so that you cover all (Burgess) as an impact (player), just like New bases. We are 100 percent confident and Kiwi Villumsen finally Zealand wouldn’t pigeon-hole Sonny Bill, comfortable with everyone, to have a prop- would they? “He’s quite comfortable starter good international team that can do the ing or coming off the bench and doing business.” — AFP claims time trial gold Defending champion Brennauer takes bronze

RICHMOND: New Zealand’s Linda Villumsen thing went my way and I started to believe said Villumsen. “It’s difficult being on the finish powered to victory in the road cycling world maybe halfway through,” said Villumsen. “I just line and nearly there and not quite there. championship individual time trial on Tuesday, gave what I could and felt really good all the “But it all played out my way today. “Usually I claiming the title that had always eluded her. way. I felt maybe this was my day.” fade out a little bit but today I was stronger at Twice runner-up and three-times a bronze Danish-born Villumsen won her first bronze the distance. When I was halfway and I felt I was- medalist, Villumsen finally got to the top of the medal competing for Denmark at the 2009 n’t empty, I still had something in the tank, I was, podium with a time of 40 minutes 29.87 seconds worlds and the next four years won medals for okay, this is going well.” For much of the day it over the challenging 29.9 km course. New Zealand, silver in 2011 and 2013 and two appeared 42-year-old American Kristin Dressed all in black and riding a stealth black more bronze in 2010 and 2012. The 30-year-old Armstrong might write the feel-good ending. bike, Villumsen had looked set for a command- signaled her gold medal intentions early - going Coming out of retirement for the chance to race ing victory until Dutchwoman Anna van der out in the last wave, Villumsen went on the at home, the two-time defending Olympic Breggen provided a late fright, crossing 2.54 sec- attack and by midway had the best time by champion in the discipline set the early target of onds behind to take the silver. nearly 11 seconds. 40:50.45. Just the second rider out onto the Defending champion Lisa Brennauer of Not satisfied, Villumsen stormed through the course, the 2006 and 2009 world champion wait- LONDON: Fiji’s centre Vereniki Goneva (left) tackles England’s centre Sam Burgess Germany had to settle for the bronze. “I was get- last kilometers coming home with a 26-second ed and watched for over three hours before the (right) during a Pool A match of the 2015 Rugby World Cup between England and Fiji ting used to being second and third and fourth lead with only eight riders still on the course. “I final riders challenged her time and pushed her at Twickenham stadium in south west London. — AFP and fifth but then it was just a day where every- really can’t believe it. It is an incredible feeling,” off the podium into fifth place. — Reuters Sam Cane ‘central’ to All Blacks long-term future LONDON: The rapid elevation of 23-year-old Sam probably two of the best leaders in world rugby after only a year in the side, a rare honor for a Cane to captain New Zealand against Namibia at pretty close up in Rich and Reado so he’s had a player unable to command a regular starting London’s Olympic Stadium is the latest chapter in great apprenticeship.” berth. “I just think he’s got the right temperament the All Blacks blueprint for the future. He’s not ear- and playing skills,” said Hansen. “In the heat of bat- marked as the next first choice captain after the ‘Right temperament’ tle he’s a clear-headed young fellow and to me talismanic Richie McCaw finally retires but he will Hansen, always keen to cover all possibilities, that’s mental fortitude to be able to stay on task be the one after that in coach Steve Hansen’s has blooded 37 All Blacks in the past four years of when everything around you is imploding. “You vision which requires constant forward planning. whom 14 have survived to make the World Cup. can’t lead if you can’t have the ability under pres- “It’s a great opportunity to future proof,” Hansen Cane was one of the first he brought in as a 20- sure to lead so you are looking for that.” said as he made wholesale changes to his starting year-old in 2012 to be the openside understudy to Cane admitted to being surprised at being line up for their second Pool C match against min- McCaw. Covering for the All Blacks figurehead tapped to replace McCaw as both flanker and cap- Zain sponsors Kuwait’s National Jet nows Namibia. meant most of his 25 Tests have been off the tain. He knew Hansen intended big changes for The position of All Blacks captain ranks as bench but off the park the All Blacks immediately the Namibia match and was only hoping to get Ski Team for fifth consecutive year probably the second-most important role in rug- recognized him as holding leadership credentials. some game time after playing 16 minutes off the by-obsessed New Zealand behind the prime min- Cane was promoted to the team leadership group bench against Argentina. “I was hoping, with the KUWAIT: Zain, the leading telecommunications com- Sea Sport Club to officially represent Kuwait in region- ister. The skipper is expected to uphold the team’s short turnaround, it will be great to get a start and pany in Kuwait, announced its main sponsorship of al and international Jet Ski championships. The team phenomenal record as one of the most successful he (Hansen) said you’ll be starting and you’ll also the Kuwait National Jet Ski team for the fifth consecu- champions won a number of prominent titles during sports teams in the world with a 76 percent win- be captain. It took me back a little bit,” Cane said. tive year. The company’s sponsorship will extend dur- past participations, most notably many first place ning rate from 532 Tests over more than 120 years. “Over the last couple of years I’ve grown comfort- ing the team’s participation in the upcoming World Jet titles of last year’s World Jet Ski Championship, held in The 12 changes to face Namibia, which meant able in the leadership role and enjoy that part of it Ski Championship 2015 that will be held early October the United States. starting an almost second XV against the south- and enjoy having a say in what goes on in the in the United States. Zain expressed its utmost confi- The company expressed its pride in all National ern Africans, is Hansen’s way of making sure all of team and how to make it better.” dence in the talents of the Kuwaiti youth. The compa- teams that raise the Kuwaiti flag high by achieving top his squad get World Cup game time and he has The appointment of the 67th All Blacks captain ny’s officials were present with the team in Kuwait international titles, and it further confirms its commit- cover for any eventuality ahead. was applauded by the team who say there is International Airport before their departure to the ment towards Kuwaiti champions, which resembles Kieran Read is the captain in waiting behind immense respect for Cane who now captains the United States, where they expressed Zain’s wishes of the company’s endless confidence of the competen- McCaw and if the defending champions suffer Chiefs in Super rugby after joining the squad as a the best of luck to the team on their upcoming partici- cies of these young athletes and their capabilities in another horror run of injuries-they lost three fly- 17-year-old. Scrum-half TJ Perenara, who also pation in the World Jet Ski Championship. excelling in different fields. halves in the 2011 World Cup-then Cane is the played with Cane in New Zealand age-group Zain’s sponsorship falls under its solid Corporate As a leading telecommunications company in insurance policy. sides, said it was no surprise: “I always saw poten- Social Responsibility strategy towards the youth and Kuwait, Zain is constantly looking to identify and sup- “If you look at the immediate future Rico tial in him to be captain. in all the teams I’ve been sports sectors as well as supporting Kuwaiti athletes. port excellence across the sports sector. The company (McCaw) will come back and be the leader and in with him hes always had a leadership role.” The company further expressed its keenness on will continue to put Kuwaiti National teams and indi- then after that you’ve got people like Kieran Read Beauden Barrett, a member of the successful 2011 encouraging Kuwaiti athletes to represent Kuwait in vidual athletes at the forefront of its priorities and likely to be the next full-time guy. After that, Junior World Championship side with Cane, the various internationally renowned championships. pledges to continue motivating them to achieve all you’re saying who’s going to drop in. “He’s seen New Zealand’s flanker Sam Cane described him as “a natural leader.” — AFP The National Jet Ski team is authorized by the Kuwait the recognition they deserve. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 SPORTS Watson inspired by Day aggression, but not at East Lake ATLANTA: Two-times Masters winner Bubba Watson says Jason was obviously looking at birdies and not how he has learned a valuable lesson from Jason Day about tough the golf course was.” East Lake, site of the season- aggression. But the lesson might have to be put on hold ending Tour Championship starting on Thursday, is a dif- this week at the Tour Championship at East Lake, where, ferent matter, said the long-hitting lefty, who flagged a Watson says, he will be cautious to avoid the rough. more conservative approach on a course that has he Watson marveled at how the 27-year-old Australian struggled to conquer. attacked courses in recent triumphs at the PGA “This golf course always beats me. Very tricky for me Championship at Whistling Straits and last week’s BMW with the rough ... it catches fliers all the time for my Championship that carried him to the world number one swing. “We’re trying to figure out how we can attack this ranking. golf course the right way, and play more conservative.” “I went in the playoff at PGA Championship at Watson has a lot riding on a win. He is fifth on the PGA Whistling Straits (in 2010). I definitely didn’t see people Tour points list, and along with the others in the top five - getting to 20-under-par like this year,” Watson told Day, Jordan Spieth, Rickie Fowler and Henrik Stenson - reporters on Tuesday. “I went into that golf course think- victory would clinch the FedExCup’s $10 million bonus. ing ... in the 60s was good, or under par was good. And Self control from the rough may be the key, said then there (were) guys basically saying, ‘no, 65 is good’. “I Watson. “It’s difficult for me because I think I can hit didn’t see that, because of my thinking. Obviously I took every shot. I think I can move the ball every direction,” the wrong thinking, or I give majors too much credit.” he said. “So it’s aiming more to the centre of the greens. Day won last month’s PGA Championship for his maiden It’s playing to the safer side. It’s not trying to get too major at 20-under 268, a major record low score in rela- much out of a club.” Watson’s choices can get complex. tion to par. “With a flier lie I could hit a wedge 190 (yards), no prob- He won the BMW Championship on Sunday at 22- lem. “From the fairway, I could hit a wedge from a hun- under, and in between captured The Barclays at 19- dred yards, so you’re talking about a 90-yard gap.” under. “I thought I played pretty good, but I finished 21st Watson wants to get away from guess work. “It’s a learn- (at seven-under at the PGA Championship),” Watson con- ATLANTA: Bubba Watson chips to the green while practicing for the Tour Championship golf tourna- ing process,” said the 36-year-old. “My whole golf game tinued. “Jason Day decided that that course was easy. ment at East Lake Golf Club on Tuesday, Sept 22, 2015. — AP is about thinking.” — Reuters Yankees Hall of Fame Yogi Berra dies at 90

NEW YORK: The lovable legend of Yogi Berra, that ain’t ever gonna be over. The Hall of Fame catcher renowned as much for his dizzying malapropisms as his record 10 World Series championships with the New York Yankees, died Tuesday. He was 90. Berra, who filled baseball’s record book as well as “Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations,” died of natural causes at his home in New Jersey, according to Dave Kaplan, the director of the Yogi Berra Museum. Berra played in more World Series games than any other major leaguer, and was a three-time American League Most Valuable Player. For many, though, he was even better known for all those amusing “Yogi-isms.” “It ain’t over ‘til SUZUKA: In this file photo, pit crew for Marussia driver Jules Bianchi of France (cen- it’s over” is among eight of them included in ter) push his car to the grid at the Formula One Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka. Jules Bartlett’s. “When I’m sittin’ down to dinner with Bianchi’s death shook Formula One and forced it to take a fresh look at safety, two the family, stuff just pops out. And they’ll say, decades after Ayrton Senna’s fatal crash ushered in a series of reforms. — AFP ‘Dad, you just said another one.’ And I don’t even know what the heck I said,” Berra insisted. Short, Bianchi tragedy looms over squat and with a homely mug, Berra was a Yankees great who helped the team reach 14 the emotional Japan return World Series during his 18 seasons in the Bronx. “While we mourn the loss of our father, grandfather and great-grandfather, we know he TOKYO: Formula One will make an emotional and would want to see the team focus on the is at peace with Mom,” Berra’s family said in a return to the scene of Jules Bianchi’s fatal crash job of racing.” statement released by the museum. “We cele- MONTCLAIR: Flowers rest at the foot of a statue of former New York Yankees Hall of Fame this week in what promises to be a somber catcher Yogi Berra outside of the Yogi Berra Museum yesterday in Montclair, NJ. Berra died Japanese Grand Prix. Bianchi died in July, nine Rule changes brate his remarkable life, and are thankful he months after suffering severe head injuries in a Bianchi became the first driver since Brazilian meant so much to so many. He will truly be yesterday at the age of 90. — AP collision with a recovery vehicle in rain and fad- triple world champion Senna, at Italy’s Imola cir- missed.” Berra served on a gunboat supporting in a shoe factory. New York Times’ best seller list. ing light, and the race at Suzuka is set to be a cuit in May 1994, to die from injuries suffered the D-Day invasion in 1944 and played for the He continued to play amateur baseball, In 1996, Berra was awarded an honorary doc- difficult occasion for drivers and team officials. during a grand prix weekend when he passed Yankees from 1946-63. His teammates included which brought him to the attention of major torate from the state university in Montclair, NJ, Bianchi’s Manor Marussia team and rivals alike away on July 17. His accident occurred towards fellow Hall of Famers Joe DiMaggio, Mickey league scouts. In 1943, his first professional sea- where he and his family lived. The university also are set to honor his memory before world cham- the end of a wet race when, with light fast dete- Mantle and Whitey Ford. “No! Say it ain’t so. He son with the Yankees’ farm team in Norfolk, named its baseball stadium for Berra. The adjoin- pion Lewis Hamilton bids to resume normal riorating, Bianchi’s car skidded off the track and was a good man, my former manager and friend! Virginia, was interrupted by World War II. Berra ing Yogi Berra Museum opened in 1998. The service after a freak technical glitch ended his smashed into a crane picking up the Sauber of RIP Yogi,” former Yankees star Dave Winfield married his wife, Carmen, in 1949. The couple museum houses Berra memorabilia, including race in Singapore last weekend. German Adrian Sutil, who had come off at the tweeted. met in their native St Louis. Carmen died in what he said was his most prized possession, the Hamilton’s advantage over Mercedes team- same spot a lap earlier. Television footage of the Lawrence Peter Berra, the son of Italian immi- 2014. Yogi is survived by their three sons. Dale mitt he used to catch Larsen’s perfect game. He mate Nico Rosberg has been cut to 41 points incident, which was not broadcast publicly but grants, got his nickname while growing up in St with Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel a further eight was posted online, showed the Marussia’s roll Berra, a major league infielder, who briefly tickled TV viewers in recent years by bringing his Louis. Among his amateur baseball teammates played for his father on the Yankees in 1985; Tim, malapropisms to a commercial with the AFLAC points back after the German’s surprise victory hoop torn off in the impact as Bianchi’s car was Jack McGuire, another future big leaguer. in Singapore. But the Briton, who won in Japan ploughed under the crane. who played one season for the NFL’s Baltimore duck. (“They give you cash, which is just as good “Some of us went to a movie with a yogi in it and Colts, and Lawrence Jr Berra published three as money.”) His wife once asked Berra where he last year as news of Bianchi’s crash filtered The findings of an investigation into the afterwards Jack began calling me Yogi. It stuck,” through to shocked drivers, has promised to hit crash prompted Formula One to make changes books: his autobiography in 1961, “It Ain’t Over wanted to be buried, in St Louis, New York or Berra told the Saturday Evening Post. He was a ...” in 1989 and “The Yogi Book: I Really Didn’t Say Montclair. “I don’t know,” he said. “Why don’t you back in Sunday’s race as he looks to equal boy- to its safety regulations, allowing a “virtual fan favorite, especially with children, and the hood hero Ayrton Senna’s 41 career wins. safety car” so stewards can neutralize a race in Everything I Said” in 1998. The last made The surprise me?”— AP cartoon character Yogi Bear was named after Hamilton warned: “I was fast and on form and I hazardous conditions. In the wake of Bianchi’s will make sure I bring that out to Suzuka.” crash-and criticism of Suzuka organizers for him. Until recent years, he remained a fixture at After winning seven of this season’s 13 races not doing so despite the atrocious weather- Yankee Stadium and in the clubhouse, where so far, victory this weekend would put Hamilton the start times of some races were also the likes of Derek Jeter, Joe Torre and others in tantalizingly close to a third world title with just brought forward to prevent drivers having to pinstripes looked up to the diminutive old-timer. five races to go. However, the memory of race in poor light. Meanwhile, Red Bull’s In 1956, Berra caught the only perfect game Bianchi’s sickening crash will be at the forefront recent threat to quit F1 if it cannot find a com- in World Series history and after the last out of many people’s minds. “Jules is never far away petitive engine following Renault’s decision to leaped into pitcher Don Larsen’s arms. The from our thoughts,” Manor Marussia sporting stop supplying engines will be the subject of famous moment is still often replayed on base- director Graeme Lowdon told Autosport.com. continued paddock chatter in Japan. And ball broadcasts. After his playing days, Berra “We’re now going to Japan, and we have to be Britain’s Jenson Button is reportedly poised to coached or managed the Yankees, New York strong. “We know it’s going to be difficult,” he announce his retirement after failing to nego- Mets and Houston Astros. He led both the added. “But equally we know Jules was a racer tiate a contract extension at McLaren. — AFP Yankees and Mets to pennants. In 1985, his firing as manager by the Yankees 16 games into the season sparked a feud with George Canadian coach ‘Iron Mike’ Steinbrenner. Berra vowed never to return to Yankee Stadium as long as Steinbrenner owned Keenan thriving in Russia the team. But in 1999, Berra finally relented, throwing out the ceremonial first pitch of the MOSCOW: Although fiery Canadian ice hockey broken Russian after winning the Gagarin Cup. Yankees’ season-opener. “We are deeply sad- coach Mike Keenan has been compared to “It’s better for me to understand than to be dened by the loss of a Yankees legend and Stalin throughout his decorated career, it turns understood,” said Keenan, who ranks seventh American hero, Yogi Berra,” the Yankees posted out he actually does a pretty good Lenin imper- among coaches for all-time NHL wins with 672 on Twitter. sonation. Keenan, who is into his third season victories. “It’s my responsibility. I’m the import Berra, who played in 15 straight All-Star at the helm of Metallurg Magnitogorsk in now, I’m the foreigner.” Keenan, whose players Games, never earned more than $65,000 a sea- Russia’s top hockey league, recently made a at times have accused him of being unneces- son. He died on the same date, Sept. 22, as his star turn as the Bolshevik revolutionary in a sarily harsh and irascible, has been called the big league debut 69 years earlier. Growing up, promotional video for the club. “I don’t know if I most “Russian-like coach the team has ever am a revolutionary or not,” said Keenan, who had” by Metallurg’s management. Although he was anything but a natural. Chunky and slow, actually resembles Lenin with his thinning hair Metallurg have surrounded him with an Berra was rejected by his hometown St Louis and sweeping arm gestures. English-speaking entourage, Kennan knows Cardinals after a tryout in 1943. But a Yankees “Maybe in the hockey world, I might be a lit- enough Russian to give instructions on the ice- scout recognized his potential and signed him. tle bit.” Nicknamed “Iron Mike” for his tough like “faster” and “let’s go”-and negotiate his way He reached the majors late in the 1946 sea- coaching style and temper tantrums, Keenan around Magnitogorsk. “They definitely under- son and homered in his first at-bat. The next first made the long-distance move to stand what we are speaking about most of the year, he continued to hit well, but his throwing Magnitogorsk, a gritty steel city of 400,000 peo- time,” Keenan said of his Russian players. was so erratic he was shifted to the outfield, ple just east of Russia’s Ural Mountains, in 2013. then benched. His breakthrough season came in That journey to the depths of Russia came after ‘Win or win’ 1948, when he hit .315 with 14 homers and 98 a career in which Keenan coached eight differ- Metallurg, winners of 9 of 11 games this RBIs while improving his fielding. In 1949, he ent National Hockey League (NHL) teams in season, rank second in the KHL’s eastern confer- compiled a .989 fielding percentage and did not North America over 20 seasons, served as a ence. “The expectations here are the same as in make an error in the All-Star Game or World general manager and dabbled in broadcasting. the NHL. You better win,” said Keenan, whose Series. “I don’t care who the hitter is,” Yankees In his debut season in the Kontinental injury-plagued team lost in the conference Hall of Fame manager Casey Stengel told the New York Journal-American, “(Berra) knows just NEW YORK: File picture shows former New York Yankees catcher Yogi Berra throwing out the Hockey League (KHL), Keenan, 65, led semifinals last year. “It’s win or win.” After two first pitch to start the home season for the New York Yankees in New York. — AFP Metallurg to their first Gagarin Cup, making decades of NHL life, the far-flung KHL presents how he should be pitched to.” Berra was the AL him the only coach to have won a champi- other challenges. Travel is extensive, with MVP in 1951, 1954 and 1955. He holds World onship in both the NHL and KHL, the world’s teams across more than 8,000 kilometers (5,000 Series records for most hits (71) and games (75). Furyk withdraws from Tour top two leagues. Keenan, who coached the miles) from the far eastern Russian city of He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in New York Rangers to the NHL’s Stanley Cup in Vladivostok to the Croatian capital of Zagreb. 1972. “You never think of that when you’re a kid,” ATLANTA: Former US Open champion Jim appointed to miss this week’s event in Atlanta, 1994, has thrived in a league, and country, that The 60-game schedule, compared to 82 reg- Berra said. “But egads, you gotta be somethin’ to Furyk withdrew from the FedEx Cup playoff’s I am now placing all my efforts on being is growing hostile to foreign presence. The KHL ular-season games in the NHL, also gives teams get in.” Among his boyhood friends was Joe Tour Championship on Tuesday because of a healthy and ready to play in the Presidents last year adopted a five foreign-player limit for less margin for error. Keenan said he was happy Garagiola, who went on to a career as a major wrist injury that forced him out of the BMW Cup,” Furyk said. its Russian clubs and foreign trainers have fall- in Magnitogorsk but has not abandoned his league player and broadcaster. In rejecting Berra Championship last week. “(Captain) Jay Haas will be made aware of en out of fashion. desire for another job in the NHL, where he last at the 1943 tryout, the Cardinals signed The 45-year-old American was diagnosed my progress in the coming days as we see But a foreign passport has not been a factor coached the Calgary Flames in 2009. With Garagiola, another catcher, instead. Berra was with a bone contusion last week in his left how the injury responds to the treatment.” for Keenan, who has been embraced by the another Gagarin Cup within reach, Keenan has born in St Louis on May 12, 1925, the son of wrist. He will continue rehabilitation in hopes Furyk, who won the 2003 US Open crown, was Russian public, perhaps because he has gone shown no sign of slowing down, although he Pietro, a laborer in a brickyard, and Pauline Berra. of participating in the upcoming Presidents assured of one of the top 30 spots in the Tour out of his way to immerse himself in his new concedes he no longer coaches with the same He grew up in “The Hill,” or Italian district, with Cup. Furyk pulled out of the BMW Championship which begins on Thursday at environment. He made headlines this summer fury as when he landed his first NHL job in 1984 three older brothers and a younger sister. Berra Championship after playing six holes of the the East Lake Golf Club. His playing partner by publicly musing about applying for Russian as a stick-breaking 34-year-old. “My style has a was forced to drop out of school in the eighth first round, the first time he has withdrawn Hideki Matsuyama will play as a single in the citizenship and charmed the public with an thread of consistency,” he said. “But I think the grade and go to work to help support his family. from a tournament since 1995. “While I am dis- opening round. —AFP inspired locker-room karaoke performance in methodology has changed.” — AFP He took jobs in a coal yard, as a truck driver and THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 SPORTS Rio Olympic, Paralympic ceremonies to be low-budget RIO DE JANEIRO: The opening and closing cere- ey like crazy.” London is reported to have spent about tions of the Games.” He added that the cuts may have country “and what I hope it will become.” He said he’d monies for Rio Olympics and Paralympics will be low- 80 million pounds ($104 million at 2012 exchange “its repercussion on the athletes.” Meirelles said try to steer away from cliches, but not all of them. budget productions compared to three years ago in rates) on the four ceremonies. “high-tech” was being eliminated from the cere- “Having an Olympics in Rio without any mention London, or in Beijing in 2008. The austerity reflects Meirelles, who directed the film “City of God,” said monies. He listed drones, complex aerial equipment of Carnival would be crazy,” he said. “Carnival’s not a the reality of Rio’s Olympics, which open in just over the budget for the ceremonies had always been and disappearing stages as items that Rio would do cliche. People live Carnival.” Andrucha Waddington, 10 1/2 months and are caught up in the economic tight, although Rio organizers have clearly been cut- without. The emphasis will be on the basics. “We another awarding-winning filmmaker who is part of and political upheaval besetting Brazil. The country is ting in the last year. Rio is spending about 39 billion don’t have high culture,” Meirelles said. “Of course we the creative team, promised the ceremonies would mired in a recession, inflation has reached 10 percent reals ($10 billion) in public and private money to pre- have some pianists, some maestros and some reflect all of Brazil’s roots - from its indigenous peo- and there are calls to impeach President Dilma pare the games. In a letter obtained last week by The orchestras, but that’s not us. We come from the roots. ple to the 5 million African slaves who arrived in Rousseff. Associated Press, the governing body of swimming The beauty of Brazil comes from the roots.” chains - 10 times more than arrived in the United Fernando Meirelles, the Brazilian filmmaker and FINA complained to organizers and Rio Mayor Faced with other needs, Meirelles also questioned States. “I can say it will be from A to Z in the show,” part of the creative team, estimated Tuesday that Rio Eduardo Paes about reduced seating in the swim- the value of Rio’s Games. “I’m not sure if I would Waddington said. “And we will talk about this diver- will spend one-tenth what London did on four major ming arena from 17,000 to 13,000. The water polo approve an Olympics in Brazil, if this is a priority for sity. We are confident the show we will be outstand- ceremonies. “I would be ashamed to waste what venue was also moved to cut costs. us,” he said. “But we’re there and this is a great oppor- ing without an outstanding budget.” Pressed for London spent in a country where we need sanitation; In the letter, former Olympic gold-medal swim- tunity for the country, and we’re going to do the best details, he also clammed up. “We should hide as where education needs money,” Meirelles told mer Alexander Popov said Rio’s swimming prepara- we can.” Meirelles divulged little about the cere- much as we can,” he added. “The surprise factor is reporters. “So I’m very glad we’re not spending mon- tions were “a step back in relation to previous edi- monies. He talked about showing a vision of the very important.” — AP

Red Bull warn that F1 quit threat is serious SUZUKA: Red Bull are serious about the fractured partnership with Renault, pulling both their teams out of Formula who powered Red Bull Racing to four One if they cannot obtain a competitive successive drivers’ and constructors’ engine for 2016, their motorsport con- championships from 2010, will not consultant Helmut Marko said yesterday. The tinue next year. “Renault couldn’t provide Austrian, who is close to the energy drink us with an engine that enabled us to run company’s billionaire owner Dietrich at the front. It’s that simple,” said Marko. Mateschitz, told the official Formula One Red Bull have failed to persuade champi- website (www.formula1.com) that the ons Mercedes to supply them while prospect could not be ruled out. Honda, returning this year with McLaren, “There is an option to stop F1. That is have the least competitive engine of all. a scenario. If we don’t have an engine While there has been speculation that that allows us to compete at the very Volkswagen-owned Audi could eventual- front we will prefer to stop,” declared the ly take over Red Bull’s team, leaving the former grand prix racer. “If we don’t have energy drink company as sponsor, that is a competitive engine there is no future in not a short-term solution. “I don’t think F1 for Red Bull Racing. The curtain may that they (Audi/Volkswagen) have a ready go down after (the season-ender in) Abu engine concept in their drawers. Yes, the Dhabi. That is Mr Mateschitz’s opinion,” rumors are there - and, of course, it would added Marko. “He knows that it costs the be great if another engine manufacturer same amount of money to race at the would join. But right now that is all crystal front or, like we are now doing, in the ball reading,” commented Marko. That ‘premium midfield’-and he is not willing leaves Ferrari, and Marko said they had to do that for another season.” discussed the situation but a deal had yet Red Bull have Australian Daniel to be agreed and Red Bull wanted a simi- Ricciardo and Russian Daniil Kvyat as lar engine to the one used by the Italian their drivers while sister team Toro Rosso team rather than anything less powerful. have the exciting young pairing of Dutch Ferrari have won three of the 13 races so teenager Max Verstappen and Spaniard far this year, with Mercedes otherwise Carlos Sainz. Mateschitz has already said dominant. — Reuters

MINNEAPOLIS: Minnesota Lynx’s Rebekkah Brunson (32) and Maya Moore (23) react to a foul call against the Los Angeles Sparks during the second half of Game 3 of a WNBA basketball Western Conference semifinal series on Tuesday, Sept 22, 2015, in Minneapolis. The Lynx won 91-80. — AP Liberty, Lynx advance in the WNBA playoffs

NEW YORK: The New York Liberty and Minnesota After a steal on the other end by Rodgers, she tie the game at 57 heading into the final quarter. Lynx are moving on in the WNBA playoffs after hit a layup with 58 seconds left to give New York a The Mystics jumped out all over New York hit- both won decisive Game 3s in the conference three-point lead. Ivory Latta hit two free throws ting five of its first seven 3-pointers to go up 25- semifinals on Tuesday. In the West, Maya Moore with 42.5 seconds left to cut Washington’s deficit 13 with 16 seconds left in the first quarter. New had 20 points and eight rebounds to help the bal- to 75-74. With the shot clock running down, York looked like the second top seed in the East anced Lynx reach the conference finals by defeat- Prince hit a 15-footer, only her second basket of ready to fall in the opening round after Indiana ing the Los Angeles Sparks 91-80. Tina Charles the game to make it a three-point game with 20 knocked off No. 2 Chicago on Monday night. and the New York Liberty are headed to the seconds left. Washington had one final chance Stokes had a putback just before the buzzer that Eastern Conference finals for the first time in five but Latta’s 3-pointer was blocked by Stokes with 5 made it a 10-point game and gave the Liberty years thanks to a strong effort from Sugar seconds left and New York held on for the win. momentum heading into the second quarter. Rodgers and the reserves. “I’m proud of our players, the playoffs you never Rodgers and Candice Wiggins helped New York Charles scored 22 points and Rodgers added know any given night who’s going to do it for score 16 of the next 18 points to take control of 20 to help the top-seeded Liberty beat the you,” New York coach Bill Laimbeer said. the game. Rodgers’ layup made it 28-27 with 5:11 Washington Mystics 79-74 on Tuesday night and “Every player needs to be ready, 1 through 11.” left in the period and gave New York its first lead TOKYO: McLaren Honda Formula One drivers Fernando Alonso (right) and Jenson advance out of the first round of the playoffs for Stokes said the team took to heart that in the of the game. She was just getting started, scoring Button play racing video games in front of an audience of Japanese fans at the the first time since 2010. “It means a lot to take double overtime loss in the playoff opener 10 of the Liberty’s next 13 points sending the Honda headquarters in Tokyo yesterday. The Japanese Grand Prix will be held at that first step,” said Charles, who also had 12 Washington’s bench outperformed New York. “We Liberty crowd into a frenzy. Suzuka circuit in Mie prefecture from September 25-27. — AFP rebounds. “When I came home to New York this knew and we wanted to make sure it didn’t hap- A 3-pointer by Wiggins was the other basket was my goal to win a championship, and now pen again,” said Stokes, who had eight points and during that spurt. She ran down the court pump- Mercedes seeking we’ve made it out of the first round.” 14 rebounds. New York’s reserves outscored ing her fists after the shot swished through the The Liberty don’t have too much time to rest Washington 40-19. “Their bench did a heck of a net. While the attendance couldn’t match the as Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals will be job,” Washington coach Mike Thibault said. “Their 10,000 that showed up for Game 1, the crowd did reassurance at Japanese here Wednesday night against the Indiana Fever bench played better than their starters. Sugar include WNBA President Laurel J. Richie, NBA because the Pope is coming to New York and will Rodgers was good, Wiggins was good, Kiah Commissioner Adam Silver and No. 1 New York Suzuka Grand Prix be at MSG on Friday. “It is what it is,” Charles said. Stokes was good. Give them credit.” fan Spike Lee, who sat courtside. “At this point of the season you don’t worry about Washington scored the first 14 of the first 16 The Fever were also in the crowd as they rest, you worry about the next game.” With points in the third quarter to turn an eight-point came to New York on Tuesday afternoon to be SUZUKA: Mercedes go into Sunday’s have been rebuffed by Mercedes in their Charles struggling from the field in the first half halftime deficit into a 51-47 lead. Emma ready to play tomorrow. The Liberty led 45-37 at Japanese Grand Prix hoping to show that quest for a new engine partner, expected and Epiphanny Prince missing 10 of her first 11 Meesseman had six of those points for the the half. New York center Carolyn Swords didn’t their baffling lack of pace in Singapore was to see the champions pick up speed but shots, Rodgers, Kiah Stokes and Candice Wiggins Mystics. Charles wouldn’t let the Liberty go away. play after injuring her foot in Game 2 on Sunday just a one-off but Lewis Hamilton and team hoped a different scenario might evolve. came off the bench to spur New York. Trailing 72- After missing 11 of her first 16 shots, the All-Star which the Liberty won by 18 points. The Mystics mate Nico Rosberg need some convincing. 71 with 1:46 left, Stokes hit a layup off a nifty hit a jumper from the top of the key and then had were victorious in the opener, winning in dou- “I don’t have any confidence. I don’t have Senna mark assist from Rodgers. a putback. Wiggins hit consecutive 3-pointers to ble overtime. — Agencies any information to give me that confi- “It’s quite confusing to see them so far dence,” world champion Hamilton told off but maybe some of the new changes British reporters when asked how confi- that have been introduced tyre-wise may dent he was that Suzuka would be differ- have had an effect, who knows?,” he said. Wozniacki downs Konjuh ent. “I’m hoping it’s a one-off but it was a “I’m sure we’ll see maybe business as usual strange weekend to say the least. “Our car next weekend. “If it’s not, then it’s obviously to reach quarter-finals has not got slower. I think some other peo- something that’s been introduced that’s ple might have brought an upgrade pack- affecting their performance.” TOKYO: Number one seed Caroline Wozniacki out- be relaxed, but of course it was a tight game. I just age... but that doesn’t explain it,” added the Singapore was Hamilton’s chance to classed Ana Konjuh of Croatia 6-2, 6-2 at the Pan Pacific wanted to talk with my dad what to do in next two Briton. Eclipsed in qualifying after 11 poles equal the 41 wins of his late hero Ayrton Open yesterday, advancing to a quarter-final against games so I can win the match,” Bencic said. “It was a dif- in 12 races, Hamilton suffered his first Senna and he has every chance of doing German fifth seed Angelique Kerber. The Danish for- ficult situation mentally. It’s good that I stayed calm in retirement of the season in Singapore and that on Sunday, even if from one more start mer world number one, winner here in 2010, took one that.” In other matches Muguruza, the world number saw his lead over Rosberg cut to 41 points than the great Brazilian triple champion. In hour and 22 minutes to complete the night match. eight, outperformed Czech Barbora Strycova 6-3, 6-4. with six rounds remaining. other respects, he and Mercedes will be “Overall, I am happy with the victory,” said Wozniacki, Kerber came behind for a 5-7, 6-1, 6-0 victory against On a tight and twisty circuit, the previ- starting over after falling just short of the who is currently the world number six. Kerber has won American Madison Brengle. ously dominant Mercedes was a second all-time records for most individual and six of her past 10 meetings with Wozniacki, including and a half slower than Sebastian Vettel’s team pole positions in a row. But the Briton, the April final of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Halep advances winning Ferrari. The heat and slow nature winner of seven races this season and still Stuttgart, Germany. Swiss teenager Belinda Bencic In another development, top seed Simona Halep of of the track may have played to rivals’ firmly on course for a third title, can consid- edged past former US Open champion Samantha Romania defeated Timea Babos of Hungary in straight strengths, but there will be worried faces er himself fortunate. “The car broke down... Stosur in a grueling second-round thriller. sets in second-round play Wednesday in the WTA among the championship leaders until at and I didn’t lose a huge amount of points The 18-year-old, ranked 15th in the world, spent Guangzhou International Women’s Open, as all remain- least Friday practice at Suzuka and possibly to the guy who’s right behind me. It could two hours and 16 minutes to win 6-7 (7/5), 6-3, 6-4, sur- ing seeded players advanced. Halep, ranked number beyond. The Japanese circuit is both fast have been a lot worse, so I’m looking at the viving constant pressure from the big serves and siz- two in the world, downed Babos 6-4, 6-0. The and demanding, with the flat-out 130R glass half-full,” said Hamilton. zling returns of the 22nd-ranked Australian. The victory Romanian was defeated in the semifinals of the US curve a stand-out feature, and should be The Suzuka weekend will be a tough means Bencic will play her first match against Spanish Open this month by eventual champion Flavia third seed Garbine Muguruza in the quarter-finals. “It Pennetta of Italy. Number three seed Sara Errani of Italy much more to Mercedes’ liking. If Ferrari are homecoming for Honda, whose return as TOKYO: Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark quicker there too, then the fight is really on. engine partners to McLaren has been was very tough for me to return,” Bencic said. “I am realy beat China’s Zhang Kai-Lin 6-7 (6/8), 6-4, 6-2, losing the happy that I was able to win such a difficult match.” first set in a tiebreaker. Serbia’s Jelena Jankovic, seeded returns a shot against Ana Konjuh of Croatia “To be so far off the pace all of a sudden, painfully uncompetitive, even if Jenson Early on in the match, Bencic beame visibly frustrated fourth, downed Francesca Schiavone of Italy 7-5, 4-6, 6- during their second round match at the Pan to not understand it, that’s really bad Button and Fernando Alonso can count on with her mistakes, suffering three double faults in the 4, while number five seed Svetlana Kuznetsova of Pacific Open tennis tournament in Tokyo yes- because then how are you going to plenty of local support. The race could also first set while Stosur demonstrated her finesse with sev- Russia eliminated Poland’s Urszula Radwanska in terday. — AFP improve it?,” asked Rosberg, who finished be a farewell from Button, a winner at en aces. But Stosur decelerated in the second set as straight sets 6-0, 6-1. Sixth seed Monica Niculescu from Yanina Wickmayer beat Puerto Rico’s Monica Puig 6-3, fourth, after Sunday’s race. “You just hope Suzuka in 2011, to his Japanese fans if spec- Bencic found her rhythm to end the set 6-3. Romania beat Sweden’s Rebecca Peterson 6-3, 6-2. 6-4. Puig had upset number two seed Andrea Petkovic that at the next track it’s going to come ulation that he is set to quit the sport at the The Australian veteran came back late in the third China’s top player Zheng Saisai, seeded eighth, downed of Germany in the first round. The other seeded player towards us again. The chances are extreme- end of the season are accurate. It will also set, when she narrowed a 4-0 deficit to 4-3, causing her Anett Kontaveit of Estonia 6-1, 7-6 (13/11) after taking to lose so far was Danka Kovinic of Montenegro, at ly good, because at all other tracks we’ve be emotionally charged for the entire pad- teenage opponent to have a chat with her coach who the final set in a lengthy tiebreaker. number seven, who was defeated in the first round by been so fast, but who knows?” Red Bull dock, returning one year on from the late is also her father. The young star in the end managed Denisa Allertova of the Czech Republic defeated Jovanovski 6-4, 6-2. Players are battling for prize mon- principal Christian Horner, whose team Jules Bianchi’s horrific accident. — Reuters to maintain her momentum to grab victory. “I tried to Serbia’s Bojana Jovanovski 6-3, 7-6 (7/5). Belgium’s ey of $250,000. — Agencies THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 SPORTS Ibrahimovic off the mark as PSG ease past Guingamp

PARIS: Zlatan Ibrahimovic ended his goal curling left-foot strike flashed narrowly drought as Paris Saint-Germain extended wide of the far post. Another chance fell to their unbeaten start to the Ligue 1 season Ibrahimovic after a clever one-two with on Tuesday with a 3-0 victory at home to Cavani but this time the striker’s deflected Guingamp. Javier Pastore gave PSG a first- effort was palmed away well by Lossl. half lead at the Parc des Princes before Yannis Salibur’s dipping long-range Angel Di Maria netted his first goal in free-kick called PSG goalkeeper Kevin domestic French football to double the Trapp into action just before the break but advantage. Ibrahimovic, who hadn’t scored the home side resumed their dominance since claiming a brace in a 6-0 win over after half-time. First, Ibrahimovic had a Guingamp last May, added a third late on thunderous free-kick fisted away by Lossl but also had a penalty saved as the reign- with the Swede again left frustrated as ing champions provisionally moved four Laurent dos Santos rushed back to clear off points clear at the top of the table. the line after PSG’s stand-in skipper had PSG coach Laurent Blanc had defended slipped the ball past Lossl from a tight his decision to rotate his squad in succes- angle. It was a busy night for the sive draws but the capital club were almost Guingamp custodian as the Dane made at full strength on Tuesday with the excep- another fine save to prevent Pastore from tion of rested duo Thiago Silva and Marco adding his second but Lossl was culpable Verratti. Edinson Cavani, whose league- as PSG did eventually double their advan- leading fifth goal salvaged a point for PSG tage on 77 minutes. in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Reims, nearly Ibrahimovic cut in from the right and added to his tally inside five minutes but after his low drive was spilled by the visit- Guingamp goalkeeper Jonas Lossl made a ing keeper, Di Maria was quickest to react terrific stop to deny the Uruguayan. Last to the rebound for his first Ligue 1 goal. Di season’s 6-0 drubbing in the correspon- Maria then provided the pass for ding fixture prompted Guingamp coach Ibrahimovic to score his first goal of the Jocelyn Gourvennec to adopt a conserva- season with the Swede poking just inside tive approach with Jimmy Briand and the far post seven minutes from time. Sloan Privat, both on target at the week- Ibrahimovic could have added a fourth end in a 2-1 win over Gazelec Ajaccio, left after Cavani was tripped by Salibur but he on the bench. saw his spot-kick kept out by Lossl. Earlier, But PSG needed just 18 minutes to Angers and Reims drew 0-0, leaving both BARCELONA: Members of the Casteller (human towers, built traditionally in festivals) “Sagals d’Osona” perform during celebrations of break the deadlock as Ibrahimovic found sides still with just one defeat through their Catalonia’s National Day (Diada), which recalls the final defeat of local troops by Spanish king Philip V’s forces in 1714 in Barcelona. There is Pastore in space and the Argentine glided first seven matches. Rennes and Saint- nothing more Catalan than a “castell”, or human pyramid. But some of the people standing on each other’s shoulders in this particular castell towards the edge of the penalty area Etienne can both trim PSG’s lead back to a come from far beyond Catalonia. — AFP unchallenged before slotting a precise low single point when they visited yesterday finish out of the reach of Lossl. Ibrahimovic Gazelec Ajaccio and Troyes respectively, went perilously close to doubling the while Lyon hosted Bastia asMarseille trav- Barca - jewel in Catalan advantage moments later as the Swede’s eled to Toulouse. — AFP independence crown

BARCELONA: Catalonia may not be a state, but Vazquez Montalban defined Barca as a “symbolic fans who don’t want independence and now it can count on a small and symbolic red and and unarmed Catalan army,” especially during feel out of place and deserted.” blue army in the form of European football the dictatorship of General Francisco Franco Politics has reached the dressing room. champions Barcelona. Despite their internation- between 1939 and 1975 which repressed the Various players have publicly supported the cel- al projection, Barca remain a banner for Catalan Catalan language and nationalism. “The club ebration of a referendum in the region, such as nationalists who are now seeking independence was a bastion of freedom. People could speak in club legend Xavi Hernandez, who now plays for from Spain. Although the club has preferred not Catalan in public without fear and even listen to Qatari side Al Sadd, and central defender Gerard to be involved in regional elections on Sunday songs in Catalan,” says historian Carles Pique who attended a huge independence that could launch a process towards secession Santacana, who points out that in 1918 the club march on September 11 in Barcelona. “There is a from Spain, the electoral campaign could have demanded that Catalonia be self-governed. very big movement and it ought to be listened serious ramifications for it. to,” said Pique, who has recently been booed by Politics in the dressing room his own fans when playing for Spain. Pep ‘Unarmed Catalan army’ This political function of Barcelona, which Guardiola, Barca’s most successful ever coach, is If Catalonia becomes independent, Barca softened during the first decades of democracy making a symbolic stand for election for the wouldn’t be able to play in the Spanish league, post-Franco, began to take shape once more independence coalition “Together For Yes”, the president of the league warned this week. during the 2003-2010 mandate of Joan Laporta which leads in the polls. That poses a dilemma for the Barca fanbase who as the club’s president, which coincided with a Ahead of the elections, the club has decided convert the club’s 99,000-capacity Camp Nou pro-independence boom in the region. In 2014 to remain officially neutral. “Barca has shown it is stadium into a yellow, red and blue mosaic of the club joined a group of institutions that outside the electoral campaign. We have always PARIS: PSG’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic (right) challenges for the ball with Guingamp’s Baissama pro-independence flags every weekend and demanded an independence referendum and spoken about sport, we will not campaign,” club Sankoh, during the French League One soccer match between Paris Saint Germain and where chants for independence are heard more has lent its stadium on various occasions to president Josep Maria Bartomeu said last Sunday. Guingamp, at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris on Tuesday, Sept 22, 2015. — AP than the name of their idol, the Argentine Lionel secessionist events. Two years ago, Barca’s away Amid countless warnings from Madrid against Messi. In recent Spanish Cup finals, Barca fans strip bore the red and yellow colours of the independence, the president of the Spanish have greeted the Spanish national anthem with Catalan flag. “Currently, there is a coup within league, Javier Tebas, said: “Catalan teams could ‘Changed’ Balotelli vows a storm of boos and whistles, the last of which in Barca. There is an ideological kidnap of the club not take part in any competition in Spain unless May at the Camp Nou saw the club fined 66,000 that has allowed pro-independence leanings they stayed in Spain.” If that happened, Spain’s to resist his detractors euros ($74,000). As a placard permanently hung into its offices,” said Ramon Miravitllas, journalist sports secretary Miguel Cardenal said, Barca may at one end of the stadium reads: “Catalonia is not and writer of the book “The Political Function of struggle to “reach the last 16 or quarter-finals of MILAN: “Changed” AC Milan striker Mario suspended two weeks ago for driving his Spain.” Spanish writer and columnist Manuel Barcelona”. “But there is a significant group of the Champions League.” — AFP Balotelli has pledged to continue defying Lamborghini at 90km/h in a 50km/h zone, crunching tackles on the pitch and taunts from Mihajlovic believes Balotelli is not the impetu- rival fans off it after hitting his first goal for the ous, wild youngster he’s often cast as in the Rossoneri since returning to the club. “They will media. “He’s shown that the real Balotelli is back. Costa crimes common take my legs and yellow cards, but they won’t He was calm and showed he knows how to han- get the ball from me,” Balotelli said after dle attempts to provoke him,” said Mihajlovic, Tuesday’s 3-2 win against Udinese. On what was who took over from Filippo Inzaghi in the sum- his first start for Milan since returning to the club mer. “He made the difference for us, but he has in my days, Pele says on loan from Liverpool, Balotelli struck a superb to continue like this because it’s only the begin- fifth-minute free kick. ning.” Balotelli’s detractors are less likely to be It was his first start in an any official league convinced-at least not yet. During a turbulent LONDON: Troublesome Chelsea striker Diego Costa game since April 28 when Liverpool faced Hull three-year spell at Manchester City, Balotelli reg- would have been considered a petty criminal rather City, and his first goal for Milan since April, 2014, ularly courted controversy on and off the pitch, than a master villain in the 1950s and 1960s, according when he found the net against Livorno. Milan’s famously falling out with City’s then manager to Brazil great Pele. Costa, who was born in Brazil but third win of the season fired Sinisa Mihajlovic’s Roberto Mancini before signing for Milan in opted to represent Spain at international level, has side up to fourth in the Serie A table ahead of January 2013. But club CEO Adriano Galliani been banned for three games for twice hitting Laurent the rest of the midweek fixtures on Wednesday insisted: “He’s a changed man compared to Koscielny during Chelsea’s 2-0 defeat of Arsenal last and Thursday-a welcome boost that came amid before.” If Balotelli is to save his career, both at weekend. It is not the first time the snarling centre-for- a social media mini-storm in which fans com- club and international level, impeccable behav- ward has fallen foul of the football authorities, but pared Milan’s garish green and yellow away strip ior will be required throughout this season. Pele, famously kicked out of the 1966 World Cup by to the one worn by Jamaica’s national side. The striker, and the entire Italy team failed to Portugal’s Joao Morais, said Costa’s crimes were noth- Despite being cautioned for a late challenge impress at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and his ing compared to the punishments meted out to him on Udinese midfielder Bruno Fernandes, for the subsequent disaster at Liverpool dropped him during his extraordinary career. rest of the encounter the 25-year-old Balotelli down the Azzurri pecking order behind the likes “Listen, this to me was so common,” a smiling Pele showed his growing maturity, soaking up abuse of Southampton striker Graziano Pelle. Balotelli said. “I suffered all my life with good marking. He’s a from home fans and a number of late chal- hopes to be reconsidered for selection to the very good player, everybody knows. “This was one lenges. Known for his extravagant haircuts, way- Italian national team ahead of next summer’s moment. The striker who bit someone, Luis Suarez, ward behaviour and an attitude that many pun- European Championships, and Monday’s per- was worse than this.” Pele, a leading contender for the dits have described as “arrogant’, Balotelli was formance suggested he was on the right track. title of greatest footballer of all-time, was speaking at forced to agree to a strict code of conduct “For me it was a difficult game because I knew the launch of an exhibition to mark his 75th birthday, before being able to re-sign for the seven-time I’d be provoked,” he said. “I’m happy with how I which falls on October 23. Called ‘Art, Life, Football’, the European champions last month. played, little by little I’m returning to form, and exhibition at London’s Halcyon Gallery features art- works depicting memorable moments from Pele’s So far, club bosses have been impressed with soon I will be able to silence the people who career, including a 1977 portrait by pop art pioneer his efforts. Despite having his driving licence have been criticizing me.” — AFP Andy Warhol. Unlike today’s stars, there is not a surfeit of footage of Pele in action, but some of his goals were so famous they acquired their own epithets. There was ‘O Diego Costa Milesimo’, a penalty for Santos-his only Brazilian club- against Vasco da Gama that was thought to be his 1,000th goal. A pitch-long dribble and shot against Australia captain Jedinak Fluminense in 1961 was deemed worthy of a plaque at Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Maracana, the ground where it was scored, earning it the nickname ‘Gol de placa’. to miss clash with Jordan Meanwhile, the goal Pele considered his best, in which he reputedly flicked the ball over three defenders and Bradford City defender Meredith gets call-up the goalkeeper before heading in during a match against the Brazilian Juventus in 1959, was recreated MELBOURNE: Australia coach Ange Postecoglou squad spearheaded by veteran forward Tim Cahill. using CGI in 2014. has welcomed back a trio of Asian Cup winners Postecoglou has also named uncapped Bradford into his 23-man squad for next month’s World Cup City left back James Meredith after monitoring his ‘I was shaking’ qualifier against Jordan but captain Mile Jedinak progress in the English third-tier side. “We have “People are talking about them until now because remains sidelined with hamstring troubles. The been keeping an eye on James for the past 18 they were so good,” says Pele-full name Edson Arantes Crystal Palace skipper Jedinak missed both the months and this season he has started well so do Nascimento-of the Fluminense and Juventus goals, winning qualifiers against Bangladesh and well bring him in to see how he fits into the sys- neither of which was caught on film. “Of course I had Tajikistan after straining his hamstring in the tem,” the coach said. other goals that were important to me, in a World Cup too. But these two goals were the ones people men- Premier League and had suffered a relapse, “We still need a bit more depth in our fullback tioned more. “They were beautiful goals, but there Postecoglou said on Wednesday. “At a stretch he areas so James has a chance to impress and show were other important goals. For example, the 1,000th might have made this (training) camp, but us he can add something to our rapidly increasing goal. “It was a penalty kick. Everybody said, ‘Oh, it’s because he’s had that setback maybe coming pool of players.” Germany-based winger Robbie easy to score a goal with a penalty kick.’ back too early, I think it’s wise to us to make sure Kruse has been ruled out with a calf injury. Victory “But to me, in the Maracana, I was shaking, I was so Mile’s 100 per cent and right for the November over Jordan at the Amman International Stadium nervous. I said to myself, ‘My god, I cannot miss this games,” Postecoglou told a media conference in will go a long way to securing Australia’s passage moment.’ This 1,000th goal was very important to me Melbourne. to the next phase of qualifying after three straight too.” Pele, who underwent spinal surgery in July, con- Australia, who lead Asia’s Group B by two wins in the current round. “On paper this is the siders Lionel Messi to be the world’s best current play- points ahead of Jordan, play the Middle Eastern toughest match we face but we have seen in the er and cites England’s 1966 World Cup-winning mid- side away on Oct. 8 before returning home to play earlier games, especially the clash with Kyrgyzstan fielder Bobby Charlton as his “most difficult opponent”. Kyrgyzstan in Canberra on Nov 12. Forwards Tomi away, that these matches present challenges on Charlton was recently surpassed by Wayne Rooney as Juric and James Troisi, and defender Trent and off the field,” Postecoglou said. “The last time UDINE: AC Milan’s Mario Balotelli is challenged by Udinese’s Ivan Piris (right), during England’s record goal-scorer and there is an expecta- Sainsbury-all part of the team that won the Asian Australia faced Jordan in Amman we lost that the Serie A soccer match between Udinese and Milan at the Friuli Stadium in Udine, tion that Neymar will one day claim Pele’s record for Cup on home soil in January-bolster a strong game so we have to be well prepared.” — Reuters Italy on Tuesday, Sept 22, 2015. — AP Brazil. — AFP Yankees Hall of Ibrahimovic off Fame catcher the mark as PSG Berra dies at 90 ease past Guingamp

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 201517 19

‘Changed’ Balotelli vows to resist detractors Page 19

SUNDERLAND: Sunderland’s captain John O’Shea (left) vies for the ball with Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling (right) during the English League Cup third round soccer match between Sunderland and Manchester City at the Stadium of Light, Sunderland on Tuesday, Sept 22, 2015. — AP Stylish City cruise in League Cup; Swansea out

LONDON: Record signing Kevin De Bruyne scored again tant defeats in the Champions League and Premier ing West Ham level in the 27th minute. 3-2 success in the shootout. Peter Crouch’s cool first-half as Manchester City crushed Sunderland 4-1 to reach the League. “It was important to continue in this cup and it Leicester, the last unbeaten team in the English top tier, finish earned Stoke City a 1-0 win at Fulham, while Aston League Cup fourth round on Tuesday, but Swansea City was important to try to win from the first minute. We prevailed four minutes from the end of extra time when Villa saw off Championship derby rivals Birmingham City fell to second-tier Hull City. Manchester City’s perfect start scored four beautiful goals.” Struggling Sunderland, bot- Wales international King rose to plant a header in the top- 1-0 courtesy of an emphatic 62nd-minute header from to the Premier League season was abruptly ended by a 2- tom of the Premier League table after six games without left corner from Christian Fuchs’s cross. Everton had to Rudy Gestede. “It was a tough game today,” said Gestede, 1 loss at home to West Ham United at the weekend, but victory, replied courtesy of an 83rd-minute header by come from behind to win 2-1 at Championship side whose side have lost four and drawn one of their last five Manuel Pellegrini’s team bounced back in style at the close-season signing Ola Toivonen. Reading. Nick Blackman’s opener was cancelled out by a Premier League games. “It was important to get the win Stadium of Light. They were 4-0 up inside 36 minutes Swansea lost to a 41st-minute David Meyler strike at powerful Ross Barkley strike in the 62nd minute before for our confidence because we haven’t started the season through a ninth-minute Sergio Aguero penalty, De Hull, who were relegated from the Premier League in May, Gerard Deulofeu sealed victory with his first goal since very well.” Bruyne’s second goal for the club, an own goal by to become the second top-flight team to be knocked out returning to Everton on a permanent basis from Holders Chelsea launched their trophy defense at Sunderland goalkeeper Vito Mannone and a neat finish by of this season’s tournament after second-round casualties Barcelona, a plunging 30-yard free-kick. Bournemouth, third-tier Walsall yesterday as Arsenal visited north Raheem Sterling. Watford, although they were later joined by West Ham. meanwhile, needed penalties to win at second-tier London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the tie of the round. “We played well, especially in the first half,” said Andy King scored a 116th-minute header as Leicester City Preston North End after the game finished 2-2 following Manchester United, second in the Premier League, Pellegrini, whose side also lost 2-1 at home to Juventus in continued their fine form to beat the Hammers 2-1 after extra time. entered the competition with a home game against sec- their Champions League opener. “Maybe in the second extra time in the only all-Premier League tie of the Daniel Johnson scored a 118th-minute penalty for ond-tier Ipswich Town, while Liverpool hosted League half, winning 4-0, we stopped our pace a little bit, but I am evening. Young striker Joe Dodoo put Leicester ahead in Preston that sent the game to extra time, but then saw his Two Carlisle United, the lowest-ranked team left in the pleased because we started this game after two impor- the early stages, with Mauro Zarate’s deflected shot bring- spot-kick saved by Adam Federici to hand Bournemouth a competition. — AFP 5-star Lewandowski shoots Griezmann’s double fires Bayern to top of Bundesliga Atletico to top of La Liga BERLIN: Robert Lewandowski admitted he Benaglio no chance. “I’ve never experienced BARCELONA: In-form Atletico Madrid strik- Low on confidence they did not take had little idea how fast his goals flew in after anything like that in my life! Five goals in nine er Antoine Griezmann struck twice to earn a advantage of early openings for Zakaria scoring five times in nine minutes to write minutes! Wow!” said Guardiola. “I may never comfortable 2-0 derby victory over tooth- Bakkali and Rodrigo Moreno before Alvarez Bundesliga history in Bayern Munich’s 5-1 rout see anything like that again, either.” less visitors Getafe that sent his side top of tucked home a Marco Asensio cross after 18 of Wolfsburg. The 27-year-old scored all five Shoot and shoot again La Liga on Tuesday. The France striker, who minutes. There was little rhythm to their goals within an official time of eight minutes, Lewandowski said his goal had simply been is developing into a talisman for Atletico, game and in the second half they relied on 59 seconds after coming off the bench at half- to score when he came on. “I just wanted to scored at the start of the first half and the keeper Jaume Domenech to make important time with Bayern 1-0 down at the Allianz shoot and shoot again. At 1-0 down, I had to end of the second after a competent display blocks to deny Hernan Perez and Asensio. “I Arena. A superb strike by Wolfsburg’s Daniel score at least two goals,” he added. “It’s been by the hosts. Atletico have 12 points from have no doubts over my work nor that of the Caligiuri had given the visitors a shock lead an incredible evening. What a great feeling.” five games, having only dropped points players,” Valencia coach Nuno Espirito Santo until the 27-year-old Lewandowski sent His haul was the first time a player has come against Barcelona who have a 100 percent told reporters. “In the first half we were the record from four games and visit Celta Vigo better side and looked dangerous but then in Bundesliga records tumbling, including need- off the bench to score five goals in a on Wednesday when Real Madrid, with 10 the second half we didn’t play well.” Simeone MUNICH: Bayern Munich’s Polish striker ing just three minutes, 19 seconds to claim his Bundesliga game. It was the first time five points from four matches, visit Athletic continued with his rotation policy and it was hat-trick. But he admitted it was a bit of a blur. goals have been scored in a single German Robert Lewandowski shoots the third goal Bilbao. Atletico controlled the game but a lively start from Atletico characterized by “I have no idea how quick my hat-trick was, league match since Michael Toennies in for Munich during the German first divi- they eased off for long spells against a side good link-up play. maybe five minutes?” he told German Sky on August 1991 in a 6-2 win for Duisburg against sion Bundesliga football match FC Bayern incapable of putting them under sustained Gabi Fernandez put the ball back into the the sidelines before being told the official Karlsruhe. Muenchen vs VfL Wolfsburg on September pressure. box following a corner and Griezmann time. “Okay, it was a bit quicker than that.” “The fact my old record is gone is, of course, 22, 2015. — AFP Griezmann netted after four minutes with turned to finished clinically. Atletico recruited It was his best haul since scoring all four for a bit of a shame, but what Robert conjured up defeat with good grace. “What can you say? A a volley from six metres and wrapped up the well ahead of the season and the skills of ex-club Borussia Dortmund in their 4-1 win was simply sensational. Congratulations, world-class striker shot five times on goal and win with another close-range finish from a Yannick Ferreira-Carrasco and Oliver Torres over Real Madrid in the 2013 Champions Robert,” wrote Toennies on Duisburg’s could have scored seven times,” he said. There Jackson Martinez pass in the final minute. “We meant that they did not miss the injured League semi-final. “To score four goals in a Facebook page. Lewandowski’s stats for the was only one record which went begging. scored quickly and we were well placed but Koke as they pressed Getafe back. But Champions League semi-final was very impor- game were five goals, nine shots from 30 Lewandowski fell just short of matching the we stopped looking to build play,” Atletico Atletico started to relax at the back before tant and a big story in my career, but to score touches and his incredible tally could have record goal-haul for a single Bundesliga match coach Diego Simeone told a news conference. halftime and Stefan Savic hit a firm drive that five goals means this is another big evening been more as he missed two clear chances. of six achieved by Cologne’s Dieter Mueller in “We then improved again in the final stages was just too close to keeper Jan Oblak who for me,” added Lewandowski, who sent Bayern “He could have gone home with seven,” admit- their 7-2 win over Werder Bremen in August of the game. In the middle section we looked made the save. After the break a mistake by top of the Bundesliga. Bayern coach Pep ted Bayern captain Philipp Lahm. “You have to 1977. It was little surprise that Lewandowski was to close the game down too much.” Valencia’s Guilherme Siqueira put Pedro Leon through Guardiola held his head in disbelief on the be critical there and point out the two oppor- named man-of-the-match and he proved the dismal start to the season continued as they on goal but he missed the target before sidelines as Lewandowski scored his superb tunities which went begging right under his ankle injury which kept him out of Saturday’s 3- lost 1-0 at Espanyol, with Victor Alvarez scor- Griezmann put gloss on the scoreline for fifth with a turn-and-volley on 60 minutes nose,” he added with a grin. 0 win at Darmstadt was not an issue. “I think the ing in the first half. They are eighth with six Atletico by slipping the ball home following a which gave Wolfsburg goalkeeper Diego Wolfsburg coach Dieter Hecking took the ankle’s fine,” he grinned. — AFP points after one win and three draws. well worked move. — Reuters China slowdown slams brakes on auto market Page 23

Business Myanmar workers long for ‘manufacturing renaissance’ THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 Page 24 Empty Cairo homes beyond Al-Shall: Fed decision to raise rate coming soon reach of poor Page 25 Page 22

STUTTGART: In this Jan 28, 2009 file photo Martin Winterkorn, CEO of Volkswagen AG, who resigned yesterday, poses next to a Volkswagen Beetle from 1950 during the inauguration of the new Porsche museum. — AP VW boss quits over diesel scandal German prosecutors announce preliminary investigation

BERLIN: Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn resigned yester- gation into the firm found any wrongdoing. new cars sold in the United States but around half of cars in 189 engines that had shown a “noticeable deviation” in day, taking responsibility for the German carmaker’s rigging of US authorities are planning criminal investigations after Europe, where governments have encouraged their use to emission levels between testing and road use. The US US emissions tests in the biggest scandal in its 78-year history. discovering that Volkswagen programmed computers in its meet fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas targets. Justice Department has launched a criminal probe, a “Volkswagen needs a fresh start - also in terms of personnel. I cars to detect when they were being tested and alter the Their biggest selling point is their fuel economy and low source familiar with the matter said. New York and other am clearing the way for this fresh start with my resignation,” running of their diesel engines to conceal their true emis- carbon emissions compared to standard gasoline engines. state attorneys general are also forming a group to investi- Winterkorn said in a statement. He said he was shocked by sions. German Chancellor Angela Merkel had urged But they also emit far more nitrogen dioxide, a toxic gas gate. events of the past few days, above all that misconduct on Volkswagen to move “as quickly as possible” to restore con- blamed for health problems. The suggestion that their such a massive scale was possible at the company. fidence in a company held up for generations as a paragon emissions in real world conditions are worse than reported ‘Investor’s Nightmare’ A five-member executive committee had grilled of German engineering prowess. in tests could harm the whole sector and alter the future of Environmentalists have long complained that carmak- Winterkorn, 68, since morning at the company’s headquar- the car industry worldwide. “The Volkswagen issue is ers game the testing regime to exaggerate the fuel-effi- ters in Wolfsburg, Germany. The company was under huge Shockwaves another blackeye for the diesel engine overall,” Mike ciency and emissions readings of their vehicles. European pressure to take decisive action, with its shares down more The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said on Jackson, the chief executive of the AutoNation, the largest politicians yesterday voted to speed up rules to tighten than 30 percent in value since the crisis broke, and the bad Friday Volkswagen could face penalties of up to $18 billion US car retailer, told CNBC, adding the “brand position” of compliance with pollution limits on cars. European car news still coming. German prosecutors said yesterday they for cheating emissions tests on some of its diesel cars. The Volkswagen was at risk in the US market. association ACEA said that so far there was “no evidence were conducting a preliminary investigation into the story has sent shockwaves through the car market, with Volkswagen said on Tuesday it was setting aside Ä6.5 that this is an industry-wide issue”. But Societe Generale manipulation of vehicle emission test results at dealers in the United States reporting people holding back billion ($7.3 billion) to help cover the costs of the crisis. analysts said that while the uncertainty prevailed, the Volkswagen, while French Energy Minister Segolene Royal from buying diesel cars and “#dieselgate” trending on Analysts doubt that will be enough, with the company dis- whole autos sector was likely to be “dead money” for a said her country would be “extremely severe” if its investi- Twitter. Diesel engines account for less than 3 percent of closing that 11 million of its cars were fitted with Type EA while. — Reuters

OPEC focuses on rival mega Sweet justice: Lindt beats Haribo BERLIN: Lindt savored a victory over projects, lives with shale Haribo yesterday in a long-running legal battle after a German federal court ruled DUBAI: After almost a year of painfully low oil prices, OPEC from countries such as Brazil and Mexico, the sources say. that the chocolate teddy bears made by members are beginning to believe they are winning against “Shale will be a new swing producer of sorts,” said Yasser the Swiss giant were not a copy of the upstart US shale producers in a short-term market share Elguindi of economic consultants Medley Global Advisors. German sweets maker’s gummy bears. contest. Yet insiders and experts say OPEC is looking for a “Because of its shorter investment cycle, when prices fall “Lindt’s sale of bear-shaped chocolates longer-lasting impact on other high-cost production oil shale producers will be the ones to cut first, but likewise wrapped in a golden foil with a red ribbon field plans, many in deep oceans, with bigger time scales, when prices go up, they will also be the first to bring up is neither a violation of Haribo’s ‘Gold Bear’ even if that means a period of cheap oil prices lasting for production. “This complicates life for those who are looking trademark nor an illegal imitation of the years. Privately, OPEC’s core Gulf members say they have at investments that have a 2-5 year investment horizon. But fruit gum products,” the court ruled. resigned themselves to the idea that the US shale industry’s again, the idea is to find the price level that slows down the The German candy manufacturer had high-tech flexibility means it will respond quickly when rate of growth considerably to something more sustain- taken Lindt & Spruengli to court in 2012 prices start rising again, making the United States the new able-and that takes more than 2 to 3 quarters of lower oil after the Swiss chocolatier began selling swing producer in world oil, the role held for so long by prices.” their “Lindt Teddy” figurines in 2011 for the Saudi Arabia. The drop in oil prices has forced companies to free up Christmas season. Haribo claimed that the “The oil surplus is slowly being drawn from the market. capital to help balance their books at the expense of allo- gold-foil packed Lindt teddies were an imi- US oil production is expected to fall to less than 9 million cating cash to expensive new projects. In some cases, tation of the gold colour bear illustration - COLOGNE: This combo of photos shows a gold gummy bear made by barrels per day by the end of this year or early next year,” investment decisions have been delayed to allow more which also features a red ribbon around its Haribo (right) and a foil-wrapped chocolate teddy. — AFP said an OPEC delegate from a Gulf oil producer. “But there is time to reset cost structures on projects. Companies such as neck - on its jelly bear packaging. one point that no one is looking at which is the delay in the BP, Total and Norway’s Statoil have postponed projects The Swiss company argued however For the court, the chocolate teddies strong protection against violations. Also longer-term oil projects, these are 4-5 year projects. The ranging from the Gulf of Mexico to the UK North Sea, that the teddy bear figurines were inspired bore no resemblance to the much smaller on Wednesday, the same court issued a postponement of these projects will impact the overall sup- Nigeria and Indonesia and dozens of other projects would by its best-selling “Gold Bunny” chocolates, jellies. The 2-centimetres (0.78-inches) tall ruling on a dispute brought by Germany’s ply in the market.” be also likely delayed, according to Norwegian consultancy which are also wrapped in a golden foil gummy bear has become the best-known Sparkasse savings banks against Spain’s The short investment cycle of US shale, where it takes Rystad Energy. and decorated with a red ribbon and a lit- product of Haribo, a company created in giant Santander over the red colour used about few months before returns are seen, make it the most Consultancy Wood Mackenzie estimated around 10.6 tle bell. The bunnies were first produced in 1920 in the western city of Bonn. First sold on their logos. The German bank claims it sensitive to oil price fluctuation - either way. Thus the spike billion barrels of oil equivalent potentially retrievable from 1952, and are best-sellers during the Easter in its current form in 1967, about 100 mil- has the exclusive right to that tint in in oil prices in June where US crude was trading above $60 deep and ultra-deep offshore projects has been deferred, season. A German court had initially ruled lion such bears are now produced daily. Germany. But the court ruled that the case a barrel drew out more shale output but the price drop in followed by 5.6 billion barrels trapped in oil sands. “We’ve in favor of Haribo but an appeal court Lindt meanwhile claims on its website that needs to be heard again on appeal. In August will reverse that, OPEC sources say. And even if ris- slowed the pace in deep water.” Ben Van Buerden, chief threw out that verdict, finding that the its teddy “sets ... more than 60 million another similar case, Beiersdorf has been ing prices pushed supplies up again, in the long run, higher executive of Royal Dutch Shell’s, said in January. Global chocolate teddies could not be mistaken hearts racing” every year. arguing before German courts that the production from shale is expected to be offset by lower deepwater production reached 8.8 million barrels per day in for Haribo’s jelly sweets. To end the dis- Lawsuits over product trademarks are blue color used on its Nivea cream tin box- production from conventional high-cost offshore projects 2014, almost 10 percent of global demand. pute, the case was then brought to the often brought in Germany, where the jus- es cannot be used by rival Unilever in its Federal Court of Justice for a final ruling. tice system is generally viewed as offering products. — AFP THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 BUSINESS Empty Cairo homes beyond reach of poor

CAIRO: Ahmed and Mohamed are both mar- Wafik, quoted by state-run newspaper Al- many restrictions on property purchases by ried with children but still live with their Ahram, said 30 percent of the country’s hous- foreigners was followed by a boom in con- mother, unable to afford one of the hundreds ing units were left unused. According to struction of high end real estate. According to of thousands of homes sitting empty in experts, empty units are either held as an Yahya Shawkat, an urban planner and Egypt’s capital. A construction boom has seen investment by their owner, bought for chil- founder of the 10-Tooba research centre, the new housing developments mushroom dren for when they get married, or remain government encouraged an increase in hous- around Cairo but they are out of reach for empty because they have no water or elec- ing prices by deregulating the market. The many, including the two brothers in their 30s. tricity. price of land in Cairo’s satellite neighbour- Instead they share a three-bedroom apart- Experts blame the authorities for allowing hoods, for example, increased fourfold ment with their wives, three children, another housing prices to rise while not creating between 2007 and 2013, according to brother and their mother, for a combined rent enough affordable social housing. “Those Shawkat. of around $10 a month. projects are not made for us,” said Ahmed, a In a country where 26 percent of the pop- Away from their rubbish-strewn neighbor- father-of-two who earns about $160 a month ulation lives below the poverty line, social hood with its tenements and narrow alleys, working at a slaughter house. “If you have the housing has become a pressing need, but it is empty and unfinished buildings flank the ring means, you can pay and have one. If not, no,” often beyond the means of those who most road that circles the vast metropolis. Outside he said. Mohamed’s wife Rahma Nafea, who is need it. “There is a high demand for social the city, gated compounds of villas, lush gar- pregnant and expecting a second child, also housing, but the homes that are available are dens and golf courses in the desert await dreams of having a home of her own. “But we luxury ones,” said Manal Al-Tibi, the director of CAIRO: Egyptian street vendors ride a cart in front of empty apartment build- those with fortunes. Almost half of Cairo’s just have enough to buy food and cover the Egyptian Centre for Housing Rights. In ings in Giza, on the outskirts of the Egyptian capital, on Sept 10, 2015. — AFP population of about 20 million lives in infor- expenses for the children,” the 18-year-old 2011, after a popular revolt that overthrew mal settlements with poor infrastructure and housewife said. veteran president Hosni Mubarak, the gov- ouster, with only 70,000 houses completed, unit,” Abbas said. “There is an income ceiling.” buildings often constructed with no permits. ernment announced it would build one mil- deputy housing minister Khaled Abbas said. The government budget for this fiscal year At the same time, the government says lion affordable homes over five years. Measures have been taken to ensure the allots about $1.7 billion for social housing, 19 there are 1.5 million vacant homes across the ‘I Lost Hope’ The project floundered during the years of homes go to people who deserve them, he percent more than last year’s budget, accord- country. In 2013, then-housing minister Tarek A 2007 government decree that removed political instability that followed Mubarak’s added. “Not just anyone can come and take a ing to the government. — AFP Oil nears $50

LONDON: Brent crude oil rose towards $50 traction. Oil prices have been weak for over a barrel yesterday as a drawdown in US a year and are now less than half their peak crude oil stocks outweighed the negative levels in 2014 thanks to massive oversup- impact of weak economic manufacturing ply by oil producers in the Middle East and data from China. The American Petroleum North America. Some analysts say oil prices Institute (API) said US crude stockpiles fell could be about to recover, particularly if 3.7 million barrels last week, with stocks at official US government figures confirm that the Cushing, Oklahoma, delivery point for the oil market there is starting to tighten. US crude futures down almost 500,000 bar- The US Energy Information rels. Although total US oil inventories are at Administration was to publish its figures at record highs, the draw suggests a rebal- 10:30 am EDT (1430 GMT) yesterday. “If the ancing of the biggest domestic oil market EIA confirms the crude draw this after- is under way as oil production slows in the noon, the market could go even higher,” face of low prices. said Tamas Varga, analyst at London bro- Benchmark Brent was up 30 cents a bar- kerage PVM Oil Associates. “It is now not rel at $49.38 by 1145 GMT. US light crude unreasonable to expect higher prices.” was up 40 cents at $46.76. The US industry Investors remain worried about data helped oil resist the negative impact China. “China’s economic slowdown con- of a sharp contraction in Chinese manufac- tinues, with factory output and invest- turing, which darkened the outlook for the ment growth both failing to hit targets,” world economy. Flagging demand is drag- oil consultancy Energy Aspects said. ging China’s factory sector into its sharpest “With the economy showing little sign of contraction in 6-1/2 years, a private survey recovery, the 7 percent GDP growth tar- showed on Wednesday, triggering a flight get set by the government may prove to safety in Asian markets that analysts say difficult to achieve,” it added. Energy SEOUL: A currency trader watches monitors at the foreign exchange dealing room of the KEB Hana Bank headquarters yesterday. — AP could extend across the globe. Aspects said it expected global crude The preliminary Caixin/Markit China demand for the second half of the year Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index to grow at only 1 million barrels per day Europe resilience trumps fell to 47.0 in September, its lowest since (bpd), down from almost 2 million bpd March 2009. Levels below 50 show a con- in the first half. — Reuters another slump in China Platinum drops over Volkswagen shares rebound Volkswagen scandal LONDON: European shares rose yesterday after business dal over falsified U.S. vehicle emission tests could affect The benchmark two-year U.S. Treasury yield edged up to activity data pointed to steady growth across the conti- 11 million of its cars around the globe as investigations of 0.7 percent, and the yield on the 10-year US bond rose 3 LONDON: Platinum slid to a fresh 6-1/2-year low that investors are still very much reluctant to add nent, contrasting starkly with figures that showed the its diesel models multiplied, heaping fresh pressure on basis points to 2.16 percent. Yields on benchmark yesterday on fears about reduced demand from safe-havens to the portfolios,” Menke said. biggest contraction in China’s manufacturing sector since CEO Martin Winterkorn. German bonds also rose as much as 3 basis points. The the auto sector, where it is used in diesel catalysts European shares rebounded from a lower the global financial crisis. The Chinese purchasing man- The share price fell as much as 8 percent early yester- positive reaction in Europe to the PMIs helped the euro to clean up exhaust emissions. The metal has start, although remaining volatile due to a fall in agers index intensified fears that a slowdown in the day before rebounding to trade 3 percent higher. It to rise a third of one percent to $1.1160. The dollar was been hurt by news of Volkswagen AG’s falsifica- Asian stocks after a private survey showed activity world’s second-largest economy will spread more widely, plunged 37 percent over Monday and Tuesday. Asian little changed against the yen at 120.20 yen. tion of US vehicle emission tests as investors in China’s factory sector unexpectedly shrank to a hitting Asian markets, but those fears were later allayed stocks, however, posted their biggest single-day fall in a In emerging markets, Brazil’s real languished at a believed it could affect demand for diesel cars. It 6-1/2-year low in September. Gold’s outlook, how- by the European PMIs. month, with MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares record low against the dollar, having fallen through the 4 fell to its lowest since January 2009 at $925.30 an ever, continues to be clouded by a looming US A recovery in the shares of scandal-hit Volkswagen, outside Japan down 2.3 percent, its biggest daily loss per dollar level on Tuesday for the first time ever.. It has ounce, before recouping some losses to trade up interest rate hike. The Fed stood pat on interest which had lost more than a third of their value in the first since Aug. 24, according to Thomson Reuters data. The now lost around 35 percent this year. In commodities U.S. 0.7 percent at $940.55 by 1202 GMT. rates last week but the US central bank has also two days of this week, also spurred the recovery in MSCI world index was down 0.1 percent, marking the crude futures rose 0.7 percent to $46.70 per barrel, while “I would say at this point that the growth story, said it would move to increase rates later this year. European shares. S&P mini futures pointed to a higher fourth consecutive daily loss. Brent futures rose 0.5 percent firmer to $49.35. Copper if there was a growth story for diesel cars in the Atlanta Fed President Dennis Lockhart said on open on Wall Street. “Headwinds from the emerging mar- The preliminary Caixin/Markit China Manufacturing recovered in European trading from near four-week lows US, is dead for now, which is something that takes Monday that last week’s decision was largely a ket turmoil are not derailing the euro zone recovery,” said Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell to its worst level overnight in Asia. It was last up 0.5 percent having earlier away some potential upside for platinum “risk management” exercise, and he still expects Marco Valli, chief euro zone economist at Unicredit. since March 2009. “The decline was driven by a fall in new posted its biggest one-day drop in more than two demand,” Julius Baer analyst Carsten Menke said. an increase this year. St. Louis Fed President James “While weakness in world trade is unlikely to be reversed orders and new export orders. Falling demand both months as fund and speculative selling pushed prices Gold firmed, following two days of losses, as the Bullard said the central bank could lift rates at its soon - the latest news from China points to a further loss domestically and abroad is only going to make the task down following the Chinese PMI report. Platinum slid to a dollar fell 0.1 percent against a basket of leading October meeting. Higher rates would dent of momentum there - the euro zone continues to benefit of achieving 7 percent growth that much harder,” said fresh 6-1/2-year low on fears about reduced demand currencies, while weak Chinese factory data demand for non-interest-paying gold, while from past euro depreciation and the recovery in domes- Craig Erlam, senior market analyst at Oanda in London. from the auto sector, where it is used in diesel catalysts to soured investor appetite for risk. boosting the dollar. Inflows into SPDR Gold Trust, tic demand,” he said. The Chinese data came after the US central bank clean up exhaust emissions. It fell to its lowest since Gold rose 0.5 percent to $1,130.60 an ounce, the world’s largest gold-backed exchange-traded At midday in Europe the FTSEuroFirst index of leading refrained from lifting interest rates for the first time in January 2009 at $925.30 an ounce, before recouping after losing 1.3 percent over the past two days on fund, supported prices yesterday. The fund’s hold- 300 European shares was up 0.6 percent at 1,373 points, nearly a decade last week, citing concerns that global some losses to trade up 0.3 percent at $937.20. The metal renewed expectations that the Federal Reserve ings rose 0.18 percent to 675.80 tonnes on Germany’s DAX and France’s CAC 40 were up 0.7 percent, problems, and China in particular, may hurt the US recov- has been hurt by news of Volkswagen’s falsification of US will raise U.S. interest rates for the first time in Tuesday, the first inflow in almost a month. Silver and Britain’s FTSE 100 was up 1.4 percent. Volkswagen AG ery. However, the resilience of European stocks cooled vehicle emission tests as investors believed it could affect nearly a decade by the end of the year. “There is rose 0.8 percent to $14.84 an ounce and palladi- was in the spotlight again after the company said a scan- overnight demand for safe-haven fixed-income assets. demand for diesel cars. — Reuters some typical risk-off trade in gold ... but it seems um gained 2.7 percent to $621.22. — Reuters

EXCHANGE RATES

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. GOLD Jordanian Dinar 426.815 US Dollars Mint 0.299050 0.303050 20 gram 226.690 Egyptian Pound 38.572 10 gram 116.040 Asia ASIAN COUNTRIES Sri Lankan Rupees 2.174 5 gram 58.700 Bangladesh Taka 0.003425 0.004025 Japanese Yen 2.524 Indian Rupees 4.555 Chinese Yuan 0.046051 0.049551 Indian Rupees 4.604 Pakistani Rupees 2.902 Bangladesh Taka 3.885 Hong Kong Dollar 0.036961 0.039711 Pakistani Rupees 2.898 UAE Exchange Centre WLL Philippines Pesso 6.470 Indian upee 0.004365 0.004755 Srilankan Rupees 2.161 Cyprus pound 576.925 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000017 0.000023 Nepali Rupees 2.852 Japanese Yen 3.515 Japanese Yen 0.002439 0.002619 Singapore Dollar 215.870 CURRENCIES TELEX TRANSFER PER 1000 Syrian Pound 2.600 Kenyan Shilling 0.002858 0.002858 Hongkong Dollar 39.054 Australian Dollar 195.69 Canadian Dollar 231.84 Nepalese Rupees 3.840 Korean Won 0.000247 0.000262 Bangladesh Taka 3.890 Swiss Franc 317.29 Malaysian Ringgit 71.050 Malaysian Ringgit 0.068410 0.074410 Philippine Peso 6.506 Euro 345.54 Chinese Yuan Renminbi 47.895 Nepalese Rupee 0.002899 0.003069 Thai Baht 8.483 US Dollar 302.85 Thai Bhat 9.395 Pakistan Rupee 0.002835 0.003115 Sterling Pound 469.68 Turkish Lira 99.160 Philippine Peso 0.006367 0.006647 GCC COUNTRIES Japanese Yen 2.56 Sierra Leone 0.000067 0.000073 Saudi Riyal 80.750 Bangladesh Taka 3.888 Singapore Dollar 0.211575 0.217575 Qatari Riyal 83.180 Indian Rupee 4.560 South African Rand 0.016593 0.025093 Omani Riyal 786.510 Bahrain Exchange Company Sri Lankan Rupee 2.182 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001859 0.002439 Bahraini Dinar 804.170 Nepali Rupee 2.850 Taiwan 0.009192 0.009372 UAE Dirham 82.443 Pakistani Rupee 2.898 CURRENCY BUY SELL Thai Baht 0.008175 0.008725 UAE Dirhams 0.08240 Europe ARAB COUNTRIES Bahraini Dinar 0.8048 British Pound 0.463140 0.472140 Arab Egyptian Pound - Cash 40.820 Egyptian Pound 0.03857 Czech Korune 0.004618 0.016618 Bahraini Dinar 0.795579 0.803579 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 38.678 Jordanian Dinar 0.4307 Danish Krone 0.041776 0.046776 Egyptian Pound 0.037809 0.040639 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.413 Omani Riyal 0.7864 Euro 0.336596 0.344598 Iranian Riyal 0.000084 0.000085 Tunisian Dinar 155.840 Qatari Riyal 0.08350 Norwegian Krone 0.033001 0.038201 Iraqi Dinar 0.000198 0.000258 Jordanian Dinar 426.870 Saudi Riyal 0.08078 Romanian Leu 0.077148 0.077148 Jordanian Dinar 0.422863 0.430363 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 2.018 Slovakia 0.009018 0.019018 Kuwaiti Dinar 1.000000 1.000000 Syrian Lira 2.158 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd Swedish Krona 0.032612 0.037612 Lebanese Pound 0.000150 0.000250 Morocco Dirham 31.724 Swiss Franc 0.305900 0.316100 Moroccan Dirhams 0.020468 0.044468 Turkish Lira 0.096556 0.106856 Nigerian Naira 0.000921 0.001556 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Rate for Transfer Selling Rate Omani Riyal 0.779684 0.785364 US Dollar Transfer 302.650 US Dollar 302.900 Australasia Qatar Riyal 0.082419 0.083632 Euro 343.810 Canadian Dollar 230.445 Australian Dollar 0.208498 0.219998 Saudi Riyal 0.080070 0.080770 Sterling Pound 471.680 Sterling Pound 467.985 Euro 343.905 New Zealand Dollar 0.185889 0.195389 Syrian Pound 0.001283 0.001503 Canadian dollar 229.800 Swiss Frank 294.310 Tunisian Dinar 0.151857 0.159857 Turkish lira 100.320 Bahrain Dinar 803.930 America Turkish Lira 0.096556 0.106856 Swiss Franc 313.950 UAE Dirhams 82.765 Canadian Dollar 0.223542 0.232042 UAE Dirhams 0.081419 0.082568 Australian dollar 218.660 Qatari Riyals 90.745 US Dollars 0.298550 0.303050 Yemeni Riyal 0.001368 0.001448 US Dollar Buying 301.450 Saudi Riyals 81.500 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 BUSINESS China economy: Weakened but still growing

BEIJING: President Xi Jinping is visiting the with a stop in Seattle to meet business leaders consumers accounted for 41.7 percent of United States as leader of a China whose image and visit Boeing Co. and Microsoft Corp. On employment in the latest quarter, well ahead of of economic success has taken a beating. Stock Thursday, he goes to Washington to meet manufacturing’s 34.7 percent, according to gov- market turmoil and a surprise currency devalua- President Barack Obama. ernment data. tion fueled fears of a Chinese slump with global This year, Beijing is expected to report Retail sales grew by 10.4 percent in August. repercussions. But even a weaker China still is growth of 6.5 percent to 7 percent. That is down E-commerce grew at twice that rate, generating on track to turn in some of the world’s strongest from last year’s 7.3 percent but more than dou- new jobs in logistics and delivery services. growth this year. And some industries including ble the 3.1 percent forecast for the US by the Business at Tiantian Express, a delivery company retailing are expanding at double-digit rates. International Monetary Fund. Only India is in the eastern city of Qingdao, has tripled over China’s 5-year-old slowdown is self-imposed as expected to grow faster at 7.5 percent. The the past year, according to its operations man- the ruling Communist Party tries to steer the slowdown came as no surprise: Economists ager, Sun Qiang. He said its workforce doubled world’s second-largest economy to more self- warned nearly a decade ago the model based in size to 150. “There is still big room for growth,” sustaining growth based on domestic con- on trade and investment that delivered three said Sun. Faith in China’s ability to surge ahead sumption. Steel and construction suffered as decades of growth had run out of steam. while the rest of the world struggled was shak- the party put the brakes on an investment Communist leaders told the public to prepare en by the collapse of a stock price bubble. Yet boom, but as job creators they already have for wrenching change. the economic meltdown many feared never been supplanted by e-commerce, tourism and A falling growth rate also is a symptom of materialized. That was due to the fact that, other service industries. China’s success. Its economy passed Japan’s in unlike stock markets in the United States or “Those touting China’s sudden fragility are size in 2009 and since then has added another 1 Europe, China’s has few links to what commu- either exaggerating current problems or have 1/2 Japans to its output. That means China nist leaders call “the real economy”. The biggest entirely missed the slowdown of the past sever- needs to generate twice as much additional BEIJING: A Chinese couple chat as a model poses next to a Mercedes-Benz publicly traded companies are state-owned, so al years,” said China Beige Book, a US research economic activity to keep growing at the same AMG GT S model on display during a promotional event at a shopping mall traders make decisions based on official policy firm, in a report this week. It said China’s image percentage rate. Some forecasters suggest yesterday. — AP and availability of credit. Only about 7 percent might be “more thoroughly divorced from facts Beijing overstates growth and the true rate of Chinese households own stocks, which is a on the ground” than at any time since it began might be as low as 5 percent. Even at that level, Weakness in shipbuilding, construction and factory workers into a consumer-driven econo- fraction of levels in the United States, Europe or conducting surveys of the country’s economy China will add almost one Indonesia to its econ- heavy industry are signs of progress in Beijing’s my and creator of technology. E-commerce, Japan, so losses had little impact on consumer five years ago. Xi started his US visit Tuesday omy this year. campaign to transform a nation of farmers and restaurants and other services for China’s own spending. — AP Boeing sells China 300 planes, agrees plant

SHANGHAI: US aerospace giant Boeing has worth $950 billion to its commercial fleet by reached deals with Chinese firms to sell 300 2034, Boeing said last month in its annual China aircraft and set up a completion centre in Current Market Outlook. “The emerging middle China, state media and its local partner said class in China is helping to boost demand,” yesterday, as President Xi Jinping began a visit Mohshin Aziz, an analyst at Malayan Banking to the United States. The massive order, which Bhd, told Bloomberg News. “Most of the planes was not immediately confirmed by Boeing, ordered will be for growth and very few will be demonstrates the vital importance of the for replacement.” Chinese market despite a growth slowdown that threatens to slow the expansion of air Shift for Boeing travel. The state-owned Commercial Aircraft A completion centre in China for the medi- Corporation of China (COMAC) also reached um-range Boeing 737 will be the firm’s first an agreement with Boeing to set up a “com- outside the US. European rival Airbus already pletion centre” in China for its narrow-body has a final assembly operation for medium- 737 airliners, Xinhua said. range Airbus 320 aircraft in the northern port It represents a step-up in Boeing’s competi- city of Tianjin, and plans to open a completion tion in China with European rival Airbus, which and delivery centre for long-haul A330s. But already has a manufacturing presence there. the move could be controversial for Boeing at The Xinhua report, datelined from Seattle home. Ray Conner, chief executive officer of where Xi on Tuesday started his first US state Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said in a memo visit, gave no details of the models bought by to employees Tuesday that it will not result in a group of Chinese companies or the value of layoffs at its Washington state plant, the sale. Aviation analyst Shukor Yusof Bloomberg News said. described it as the biggest ever order by a A report by the Shanghai Securities News country. Xi was due to visit Boeing’s main on Tuesday said plans for a Boeing facility in aeroplane factory in Washington state yester- the eastern Chinese province of Zhejiang have day. “China’s rapidly growing aviation market already been submitted to the central govern- SHANGHAI: A man passes by a Maserati showroom, run by Chinese luxury automobile dealer Sunfonda Group, on Sept 21, 2015. — AFP plays a crucial role in our current and future ment for approval. COMAC is already develop- success,” Boeing chairman Jim McNerney said ing a Chinese narrow-body, the C919, as well as in a statement last week. a smaller regional jet, the ARJ21, in the com- COMAC confirmed to AFP that it will set up a mercial hub Shanghai. Shukor, with Malaysia- China slowdown slams joint venture with Boeing for interior comple- based Endau Analytics, said China was unique tion, painting and other delivery support serv- in that orders came from the government and ices for Chinese customers. “This shows cooper- planes were then distributed to the airlines ation between Boeing and a Chinese enterprise and leasing companies. “To put it simply, it’s a brakes on auto market has been lifted to a major-manufacturer level,” it trade-off,” he told AFP. “China buys 300 aircraft said in a statement. The wording echoes the and Boeing builds a plant in China in return.” “new model of major country relations” phrase Shukor said China was leveraging the rivalry Developments changing nature of competition that Chinese officials use to describe ties with between Boeing and Airbus to get the best of the US, suggesting parity between the powers. both worlds in developing its own aircraft SHANGHAI: Chinese luxury auto dealer Sunfonda a letter to a dealer industry group, which was seen by Sunfonda representative told AFP, declining to be China is expected to add 6,330 new aircraft manufacturing. — AFP was in the fast lane to success as the country boomed AFP. China is crucial to foreign auto makers, which named due to the legal proceedings. “However, low but a slowdown in the world’s number two economy dominate the market, given weak sales in Europe and profitability has now revealed the conflicts.” has slammed the brakes on the firm’s ambitions. The a still recovering United States. Maserati said in a statement it was not pulling out worst economic performance in a quarter century There were 23 million vehicles sold last year, a 6.9 of the three cities, only changing its local Chinese and a prolonged government crackdown on corrup- percent annual rise, but some forecasters are predict- partner to give its brand more focus. But Maserati CEO tion have hammered luxury car sales in the country, ing a fall this year, forcing manufacturers in the coun- Harald Wester told AFP in April that maintaining China and Sunfonda last month announced a 75 percent try to slash prices and cut production. Some dealers sales at last year’s 9,400 vehicles would be “a very diffi- slump in first-half net profits. Sunfonda set up its first have even demanded compensation from automak- cult task”. Hong Kong-listed Sunfonda is responding to dealership for Germany’s Audi in Xian 13 years ago, ers, in cash or subsidies, as unsold stocks mount. the downturn by adding dealerships for more budget- and accelerated as China overtook the US to become “Inventories are increasing, sales slowing and (manu- oriented brands such as Ford of the United States and the world’s biggest auto market in 2009. facturers) are starting to reconsider their production Volvo, owned by China’s Geely, as well as expanding Even in lagging inland provinces far from China’s strategy - all signs of increasing competition and a its auto servicing and used car offerings. developed eastern coast, new fortunes built on a much tougher environment,” said Lian Hoon Lim, In the first eight months of the year, China’s over- resources boom and property speculation fuelled managing director of advisory firm AlixPartners. He all auto sales reached 15.02 million vehicles, flat demand for luxury cars. Sunfonda now has 28 outlets added that 2015 was likely to be a “downbeat year”. from the same period in 2014, according to an in seven provinces, grouping brands such as Porsche, industry group. But the China sales of US auto giant Mercedes and Maserati, and more than 2,000 Driving Away? General Motors dropped 4.8 percent year-on-year in employees. But stumbling growth and a crackdown In the latest blow for Sunfonda, Italian sports car August, according to the company. Ford, which has on graft launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping builder Maserati has said it is terminating agreements already cut production in China, recorded a 3.0 per- more than two years ago have hit the company. for dealerships in Xian, Taiyuan and Yinchuan. cent fall in its sales in the country last month. The Chinese share prices have plummeted since June, According to a Sunfonda executive the three have lost developments are changing the nature of competi- wiping out paper wealth and knocking sentiment, at least 24 million yuan ($3.8 million) combined. The tion in a market that once offered dazzling crucial to high-end auto sales as an uncertain future Chinese company is now seeking legal arbitration in prospects. Yale Zhang, managing director of indus- SEATTLE: Boeing Co Chief Executive Dennis Muilenburg attends the welcoming ban- makes people less likely to spend big. “It is a reality Shanghai over the termination, claiming the original try research firm AutoForesight in Shanghai, told quet for Chinese President Xi Jinping at the start of his visit to the United States at that China is now seeing slower economic growth contracts were unfair. “It was OK before as conflicts AFP: “In a weak economy, whoever slides the slowest the Westin Hotel on Tuesday. — AP and a sluggish luxury car segment,” Sunfonda said in were hidden while everyone was making money,” the will be the winner.” — AFP China manufacturing activity slowing again

BEIJING: Chinese factory activity shrank at wide GDP - from one reliant on exports and after the PMI figures, while other Asian its fastest pace in six and a half years in heavy government investment in infrastruc- markets also sank. September, data showed yesterday, the lat- ture to one where domestic consumption is est in a litany of bad news undermining the main driver. But weak data in the current ‘Downward Risks’ hopes of an uptick in the world’s second- quarter has raised alarm bells over how rap- China’s economy expanded 7.3 percent largest economy. The news sent Chinese idly the old economy is slowing and last year, the weakest pace since 1990, and stock markets down and will come as a fur- whether the new one is expanding fast slowed further to 7.0 percent in each of the ther worry to global investors already fret- enough to take up the slack. first two quarters this year. The government ting about the spillover effects of China’s The Caixin PMI is closely watched by has cut interest rates five times since slowdown. It also comes a day after the investors around the world for clues on November as part of efforts to shore up Asian Development Bank became the latest China’s economic health as it is the first reg- growth. It also lowered the Chinese curren- international body to lower its growth fore- ular statistic to be announced for each cy’s central rate against the US dollar by casts for China, a key driver of the global month. The preliminary figure of 47.0 was nearly five percent in a week, which should economy. the seventh consecutive month of contrac- make Chinese goods cheaper overseas. The Preliminary figures from financial pub- tion and the worst since March 2009, in the finance ministry earlier this month also lisher Caixin’s closely watched Purchasing depths of the global financial crisis. It was vowed to adopt “stronger” fiscal policies. Managers’ Index (PMI) showed manufactur- below August’s result and also missed econ- But authorities’ aggressive intervention ing had slowed for the seventh consecutive omists’ forecasts according to Bloomberg to try to shore up share prices as a bubble month. The details do “not bode well for News. A result below 50 indicates the manu- burst on China’s own stock exchanges has future production” said economists at facturing sector is shrinking, while anything raised questions over their economic man- Nomura. “Demand - especially external above shows expansion. agement and commitment to market demand -remains sluggish.” China is the He Fan, chief economist at Caixin reforms. Capital Economics analyst Julian world’s biggest trader in goods, whose Insight Group, which released the data, Evans-Pritchard said current pessimism manufactured items sell worldwide, so low- said the decline showed manufacturing about China was “overdone”. The country er demand for its products is a telling sign of industry had “reached a crucial stage in still faces “structural drags” on growth the state of global economic health. the structural transformation process”. In a including a continued slowdown in proper- Slowing production lines need less from statement accompanying the PMI figures, ty construction, he said. But key leading commodity-supplying countries, meaning a he blamed the weakness mainly on slug- indicators such as fiscal spending and cred- knock-on effect for economies around the gish external demand for Chinese goods it growth were showing positive signs. “We world. Chinese authorities are trying to and lower export prices. The benchmark continue to expect a cyclical recovery in rebalance the economy - which accounts Shanghai Composite Index ended down economic activity over the coming quar- BEIJING: A Chinese laborer walks in the Guomao district of the capital yesterday. Chinese factory activity shrank at for one out of every eight dollars of world- more than two percent on Wednesday ters,” he wrote in a note. — AFP its fastest pace in six and a half years in September. — AFP THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 BUSINESS At a market, divided Syria comes together again

DAMASCUS: Grapes from rebel territory, On one recent day at the market Fares toes to Al-Bab,” a city in Aleppo province watermelons from land under jihadist con- was lucky. Thanks to a ceasefire the day also held by IS. Abu Abdo’s case is hardly trol, potatoes from a regime-held area - before, boxes of apples were piled high in unusual. At Al-Hal, the grapes and toma- every morning the Syria torn apart by war front of his stall. “The delivery man arrived toes come from Deraa province in the is reunited at the Al-Hal Souk in Damascus. today, no problem,” he said with a smile. south, which is mainly in the hands of rebel More than four years of fighting between The souk - founded when Syria was under forces. The watermelons are from Jabal Al- President Bashar Al-Assad’s regime and French administration from 1920 to 1946 Sheikh, on the edge of the Israeli-occupied disparate rebel groups has left Syria a and named after Paris’s famed Les Halles Golan Heights and under the control of Al- patchwork of fiefdoms. Damascus and market - holds more than 300 stalls in an Nusra Front, the local branch of Al-Qaeda. coastal areas remain under government area of less than a square kilometre. In the The courgettes are from Idlib province, control, the Islamic State group holds surrounding streets, delivery trucks recently conquered by a mainly Islamist swathes of the east and the rest of the manouevre through narrow passages, rebel alliance. Citrus fruits are from Assad’s country is divided among other rebel fac- jostling for space with cars and porters. coastal heartland, potatoes from regime- tions, from Al-Qaeda-linked fighters to controlled Hama province and the onions Kurdish militia. ‘All Provinces of Syria’ come from northeastern Hasakeh, held by But at the Al-Hal Souk wholesale food The market sits on the edge of the the Kurds. “All the provinces of Syria are market in eastern Damascus, amidst the Damascus suburb of Jobar, a frontline that reunited at this market,” said stall-owner vendors hawking their goods and delivery has seen heavy clashes. Some 15 people Abu Mohammad, his face hidden behind a trucks honking their horns, an echo of the were killed and dozens wounded as shells bushy grey beard. “It would be a huge dis- old Syria survives. “When it comes to food, fell on the area in recent days, but the traf- aster if it closed,” he said, watching the everyone comes together. The stomach fic at the market continues. Between 6:00 DAMASCUS: Syrians shop at a traditional market yesterday as Muslims pre- scales as his employees weighed hefty has no political opinions,” said Fares, 32, am and noon every day, more than 400 pare to celebrate the holiday of Eid Al-Adha or Feast of the Sacrifice. — AFP sacks of aubergines, green peppers and who sells apples from a farm in Zabadani, tonnes of goods change hands, making tomatoes. “I’ve been working here for 30 about 45 km northwest of Damascus. The their way from the market throughout often-fraught journeys through territory in Deir Hafer, in the countryside of Aleppo, years. Never have I closed my shop, even in region is famed for its apples but with reg- Damascus and the rest of the country. many different hands. passing through Raqa and Palmyra,” both the worst moments of the war. I receive ular clashes there between the army and Truckers like 30-year-old Abu Abdo are the “It took me 17 hours to bring these 15 areas held by IS, Abu Abdo said. “I’m going merchandise from all of Syria - people need rebels, deliveries are irregular. market’s lifeblood, carrying produce on tonnes of red and green chilli peppers from to sleep for one night and then bring toma- to eat.” — AFP India ready to invest over $15bn in Iran Delhi seeks cheaper gas

NEW DELHI: India is ready to invest cumvent arch-rival Pakistan and open more than $15.2 billion to build proj- up a route to landlocked Afghanistan ects in Iran including taking up full- where it has developed close security scale development of Chabahar Port if ties and economic interests. The port Tehran offers better terms including can also serve as a gateway to the cheaper gas, Shipping Minister Nitin resource-rich countries of Central Asia. Gadkari said yesterday. India is one of In May, Gadkari and his Iranian counter- the handful countries that continued part, Abbas Ahmad Akhoundi, signed trade links with Iran, isolated by an $85 million deal for India to lease Western countries against its disputed two existing berths at the port and use nuclear program. New Delhi is Tehran’s them as multi-purpose cargo terminals. second biggest oil client after Beijing. With the easing of sanctions New “We are ready to make a huge invest- Delhi is hoping for a greater and ment in Iran and this is mainly linked to stronger role in Iran’s development by gas pricing offered by Iran ... Gas price taking up projects including building is a crucial issue,” Gadkari told a news urea and petrochemical projects using conference. gas produced in the OPEC-member Days before the historic nuclear deal nation. India is seeking gas at $1.50 per between Tehran and the West in July, million British thermal units (mmBtu) President Hassan Rouhani offered India compared to $2.95 offered by Iran for a greater role in infrastructure projects building a urea plant there, Gadkari including overall development of said. He said building a plant in Iran YANGON: In this picture taken on Sept 18, 2015, employees work at a garment factory in the Shwe Pyi Thar industrial zone. — AFP Chabahar port. India hopes to take a and importing urea from there to India decision on Iran’s latest offer by early will help save a part of the 800 billion October after obtaining reports from rupees ($12.13 billion) in subsidies and Myanmar workers long for other ministries including petroleum, halve the prices for farmers. “If the gas chemical and fertiliser, and steel by price is reasonable then all depart- Monday, Shipping Secretary Rajive ments in India can together take up ‘manufacturing renaissance’ Kumar said. projects in the special economic zone The port of Chabahar in southeast there and investment will be more than Iran is central to India’s efforts to cir- 1 trillion rupees,” he said. — Reuters Garment making expanding fast

YANGON: Wearing an expression of intense concentra- backed ruling party against Aung San Suu Kyi’s National Overall foreign investment to Myanmar jumped to tion, Myanmar garment worker Htet Myat Nyein stitches League for Democracy (NLD). $8 billion this year, double the government’s target, India central bank jackets bound for wealthy foreign high streets, part of a Suu Kyi, who recently toured a garment factory with while the country’s first Special Economic Zone (SEZ), booming industry fuelling much of the country’s mod- Angelina Jolie, is widely expected to lead her party to a the Japan-backed Thilawa project near Yangon, is stir- ernization drive. “I learned to sew at this factory,” she tells sweeping win in the first nationwide election it has ring to life. But Myanmar will have to develop fast if it is cautious despite AFP, her soft voice almost lost in the clatter of sewing fought in a quarter century. But with the next president to challenge regional garment manufacturing hubs like machines at the Shweyi Zabe factory on the fast-indus- yet to be decided - under the military drafted constitu- Cambodia, Vietnam and Bangladesh. Between 60 and trialising outskirts of Yangon. tion Suu Kyi is banned from the top post - questions 70 percent of Myanmar’s citizens still work in agriculture. pressure for cuts Most families in her hardscrabble Hlaing Thar Yar abound over the possible trajectory of reforms. Political uncertainties have also dampened the neighbourhood still survive on remittances from abroad investment buzz as the nation heads towards crucial - the legacy of decades of brutal rule and economic mis- Fast Growing Economy elections, while firms face a host of challenges including MUMBAI: Though the Reserve Bank of at ICICI Securities Primary Dealership. management under the former junta. Htet Myat Nyein, Nonetheless with the World Bank’s projections plac- unstable electricity, patchy communications, poor infra- India is expected to cut interest rates “Rajan wants inflation to be low and her cheeks dusted with circles of traditional thanaka ing Myanmar as the world’s fourth fastest growing econ- structure and significant corruption. Sean Turnell, an next week by a quarter percent to a stable for a sustainable period,” he powder, says there are just two career paths for those omy, the emergent nation is a tempting prospect. expert on Myanmar’s economy who has advised Suu four-year low, officials say concerns added. “You can be a proactive central who remain in her neighbourhood: “Garment work and Ideally located between China and India it boasts a 51 Kyi’s party, said a “manufacturing renaissance” could see over prices make it likely to resist bank only after anchoring inflation beauty parlours, that is all.” million strong population offering both cheap labour the sector as a whole account for up to 30 percent of the political pressure for significant easing expectations.” Myanmar has pinned its hopes on industrialisation and potential new consumers. Garment making is economy. “I very much expect that the NLD will imple- in the coming months. In growing as it looks to reshape an economy long-dominated by expanding fast. Exports last year reached $1.5 billion - ment policies sufficiently pro-growth and development contrast with the government, which Chain Reactions subsistence agriculture and resource extraction that 14 percent of the country’s total exports - according to that effectively all of Myanmar becomes one enormous is desperate to accelerate a sluggish Avoiding over-reactions is key for enriched a tiny elite but did nothing to lift living stan- the Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association, and prosperous SEZ,” he told AFP. The West has wel- recovery, an increasingly independent the RBI, the officials said, despite the dards in one of the world’s poorest nations. Plans to which says some 70 percent of industrial jobs in Yangon comed many of Myanmar’s reforms, including better build a prosperous Myanmar, which still languishes are now in the sector. The country has already attracted labor rights and ending draconian media censorship, RBI under governor Raghuram Rajan growing clamour for more rate cuts around the bottom of global development tables, rest major fashion brands, including high street staples Gap although there have been rising fears of backtracking in remains focused on a long-term infla- from business and government after on the outcome of the Nov 8 elections pitting the army- and H&M. recent months. — AFP tion target of 4 percent and ending consumer price inflation hit a record decades of damaging price volatility. low of 3.66 percent in August. Rajan “The inflation outlook is still uncer- last week noted that without a tain, and that is why the governor favourable base effect, consumer wants to be cautious,” said one official prices would have risen at an annu- Modi eyes Silicon Valley familiar with the RBI’s thinking. “It alised pace of around “mid five” per- makes sense to wait and watch how cent. India’s inflation has long been sustainable the fall in inflation will be.” difficult to predict, given it is heavily in US as euphoria fades Headline inflation has dipped due to influenced by volatile food and crude lower commodity prices, but the offi- prices. To combat that, Rajan formally cials said the RBI was concerned that adopted inflation targeting earlier this NEW DELHI: Tech titans will court Indian But in other areas, progress has been any spike in food prices due to weak year, in the biggest monetary policy Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Silicon slow. Western businesses and diplomats monsoon rains or in crude oil would overhaul in decades. Valley this weekend, but away from the in Delhi privately say Modi’s reputation push up prices and expectations of But his caution is frustrating Delhi glitz, the euphoria of his first trip to the as a man of action has been hurt by set- future rises - at least until India can and corporate India, which say the United States a year ago has faded as backs on economic reform. Some carp resolve significant supply and trans- 7.25 percent rate at which the RBI promised deals stall and key reforms that he is better at speeches and launch- port bottlenecks. lends to commercial banks is too high flounder. A firm believer in the new ing projects than seeing them through. Worries about the impact from rate for a recovering economy. Taking into economy and power of social media, The Thomson Reuters/INSEAD Q3 Asian Modi will be welcomed by Apple, Business Sentiment Survey found on hikes expected in the United States account consumer inflation, India’s Facebook and Google, who want to Wednesday that optimism among Indian later this year add to the caution, the real interest rates were 3.59 percent in grow in a market where the world’s third- companies, while still high, had been officials said, given the potential for August, the second highest month on largest internet user base is set to multi- dented by the slow pace of reform. destabilising outflows by foreign record after the 3.79 percent in Nov ply in coming years. US lawmakers wrote to the Obama investors and volatility in the rupee. 2014, according to Thomson Reuters Apple CEO Tim Cook is due to drop administration on Monday complaining For Rajan, who said last week he calculations. At the wholesale price by Modi’s hotel in San Jose, before the about barriers to trade they said had intended to control inflation “not just inflation level, real interest rates are Indian leader joins Mark Zuckerberg for a got worse under Modi, as well as dis- today, but well into the future”, it is even higher, hitting a record 12.2 per- “townhall” session broadcast live from putes over copyrights and patents. “The also about learning the lessons of a cent in August. High effective interest Facebook headquarters. He will be able sheen is off, certainly. He is no longer boom-and-bust past. Rajan’s prede- rates drag on GDP growth, which is to relive some of the glory of 2014’s rock the new kid on the block,” said Neelam cessor, Duvvuri Subbarao, cut interest seen at the lower end of a govern- star-like Madison Square Garden rally in Deo, a former Indian diplomat in rates in response to the global finan- ment target of 8.1 percent to 8.5 per- New York when he addresses 17,000 Washington now at Gateway House, a cial crisis to 4.75 percent by April 2009, cent for the current financial year. Indian expatriates at San Jose’s “Shark think-tank. “The first trip was euphoric, from 9 percent in July 2008. The Indian government’s chief eco- Tank” sports arena on Sunday. this one is much more a consolidation That cut fuelled double-digit infla- nomic adviser, Arvind Subramanian, Modi’s standing in the United States phase of the relationship.” rose further when US President Barack tion and eventually forced the RBI into told Reuters yesterday the economy DUBLIN: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gestures as he delivers reverse, raising rates back to 8.50 per- would hit that target, even if a tougher Obama visited India in January and the Chopper Red Tape two tightened defence and civil nuclear On Tuesday, India’s cabinet approved a joint press conference with Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny at cent by Oct 2011. Rajan, who took global environment will weigh. Extra Government Buildings yesterday. — AFP over two years later, was still fighting public spending, he said, would not cooperation with a promise of billions of a $2.5 billion purchase of 37 Apache and inflation at near double digits when be needed. “Monetary policy will ease dollars of business. The relationship is still Chinook helicopters from Boeing, giving evolving, with the world’s two biggest Modi something concrete for when he slower-than-expected pick-up in India’s the Cold War, said Lalit Mansingh, a for- he joined in 2013. “I think Governor in line with ... inflation,” he added. “We democracies agreeing on Tuesday to meets Obama on Monday. But the clear- economy and the bureaucratic morass mer Indian ambassador to Washington, Rajan is deliberately falling behind the have had three cuts, the year is not jointly train peacekeepers in Africa, a step ance came more than a year after the that plagues ties between the countries. referring to India’s previous strong ties curve,” said A Prasanna, an economist over, so that still holds.” — Reuters in a growing military alignment partly deal was agreed by the defence ministry, “We have formidable bureaucracies on with the Soviet Union. “Things are bound aimed at balancing China’s expansion. highlighting the lack of funds due to a both sides,” with residual mistrust from to be slow.” — Reuters THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 BUSINESS Fed decision to raise rate coming soon

AL-SHALL WEEKLY ECONOMIC REPORT

1. Interest Rates The lowest belonged to Warba Bank which KFH achieved the second highest profits by KD European countries like Germany and Austria, the economic activity which increased the sus- Only in the last quarter of the last century captured 1.1 percent and Kuwait International 62.3 million, 16.8 percent, of the 10 banks’ net economically prosperous, welcome the tenance rates. On the other hand, there is a some central banks in economies of scale Bank by 2.7 percent, both of which are Islamic profits, a growth rate by 14.2 percent com- refugees more warmly than the east and south superior youth power in India and with is eco- began to put down a declared or undeclared banks. pared with the same period 2014. Warba Bank states, or the troubled states, or those that nomic prosperity, that youth force became a goal for the targeted inflation rate, which is The statistical bulletin (June 2015) of the was the least contributor to the balance of sea- broke away from the socialist block. large basis for production and consumption. usually humble as economies do not endure Central bank of Kuwait states that the balance sonal profits. It achieved KD 315 thousand In those countries, prosperity is synonymous Therefore, India’s GDP growth at 7.5 percent in low inflation rates, ie close to or below zero. of total credit facilities to the residents in (compared to KD 43 thousand) achieving the to the stop in demographic growth rates. But 2015 may excel that of China at 6.8 percent-7 More dangerous still is the uncontrolled infla- Kuwait scored KD 31.749 billion, 55.1 percent highest percentage of growth in profits value the need for continued prosperity increased percent in 2015 and it will continue in the tion rate. After the 2008 global financial crisis, of total local banks assets, a rise by KD 1.566 by 632.6 percent. But it is a start from a low demand on non-available labor force. In future. the US Federal Reserve Bank (FRB), with the US billion, over its amount in the end of June base for a bank in its beginning. Boubyan Bank Germany, for instance, the government and the Though they (in Europe) know that a large dollar being the global reserve currency, tried 2014, a growth rate by 5.2 percent. Total per- achieved about KD 16 million compared with Industries Union -and even sports clubs- wel- number of refugees will go back to their home to link raising the interest rate with a low sonal facilities from the total were KD 12.974 KD 12.6 million, achieving a growth rate by come was humanitarian as well as one of inter- if conditions settle there, yet they see the posi- unemployment rate, ie 6.5 percent, when the billion, 40.9 percent, of total credit facilities 27.6 percent.This means it is on the right track est. Germany’s announcement of its readiness tive element in that. Returning persons will unemployment rate then was close to 10 per- (KD 11.933 billion in the end of June 2014), a to catch up with the medium size banks. to receive 800,000 refugees in one year and enrich their countries with their acquired cent. Later in 2012, it identified a goal for infla- growth rate by 8.7 percent. Installment loans then rationalize their flow at high rates still in knowledge, values and languages. They will tion at about 2 percent which seems appropri- formed KD 8.637 billion, 66.6 percent, of total 3. Syrian Refugees - The Economic the next years drove the welcoming policies to also return the favor to the countries which ate to stimulate the economy. With rise growth personal facilities, KD 2.838 billion for buying Dimension refugees in all prosperous Europe to overcome sheltered them and will be their favorites. rates of the American economy, FRB began a stocks, or 21.9 percent of total personal facili- While Arabs and Moslem look for various stringent measures. In brief, the mischiefs of the Arabs and serious talk about beginning to raise interest ties. Consumer loans scored KD 1.201 billion. justifications to kill one another, the West One of the main motives that encouraged Muslims whether in wasting the lives of their rates, especially after the suspension of the The last two activities are not healthy growth grants life to the survivors. Certainly, the Germany to welcome the influx of refugees youth in absurd wars or expulsion of the quantitative easing. indicators. humanitarian factor to the West is a main drive might be an old reading to the Japanese pat- remaining lives, might be interpreted as bene- Forecasts were almost unanimous that the On the banks level, NBK continued to to grant them life, but the interest drive is tern where the population is decreasing. More fits to states that are aware of their own inter- FRB meeting on Sept 17 would result in a deci- achieve the highest value in the 10 banks’ prof- acceptable as long as it does not conflict with importantly perhaps is a comparison now ests. While the refugees live under miserable sion to start lifting interest rates. But the its by achieving KD 163.4 million, 44 percent of the humanitarian motive. In Western coun- between the Chinese and Indian models. The conditions in border camps in the distressed events of last August such as the Greek crisis the 10 banks’ net profits, achieving a growth tries, welcoming the refugees is in proportion one child policy in China reduced considerably neighbors, they enter the real production and the fall of the Chinese stock market low- rate by 12.8 percent compared with last year. to the economic prosperity level. The North the demographic growth rates at the age of process in remote countries. The difference is ered such prospects of the increase decision. the positive environment in states that employ The FRB meeting the week before last main- human resources to make the future and that tained the interest rate fixed close to zero not environment where resources are wasted to because of August events but due to special withdraw to the past or at least to preserve a justifications pertinent to the American econ- bad present. omy and its projections of weak global economy growth. This occurred despite an excellent 4. Warba Bank Financial growth rate in the second quarter at 3.7 per- Results – First Half 2015 cent and despite lower unemployment rate The bank announced results of its business and better than most of the advanced for the first half of this year which indicate that economies - 5.1 percent - in August, the goal the net bank profit -after tax deductions- of inflation remained remote at about 0.2 per- scored KD 315 thousand vis-à-vis KD 43 cent only in August. thousand loss in the same period of 2014. The As interest rates remained low for long reason for this profit is due to the rise in total periods, funds went to stock markets whose operating income by a higher value than the most indexes regained their pre-2008 crisis rise in total operating expenses. levels and even surpassed them. In August In details, total operating income increased and due to three justifications, ie the Chinese by about KD 1.4 million and scored KD 7.6 mil- crisis, the Greek crisis and probable lifting of lion (KD 6.1 million in the same period 2014) the interest rate, global markets were subject due to a rise in the item of net financing to a major correction process. But if the inter- incomes by KD 1.5 million to KD 5.5 million est rate is lifted or becomes confirmed, it may (KD 4 million in the same period 2014). But cause another correction process. the item of net fees and commission dropped The experience at the beginning of the by KD 109,000 to KD 196,000 (KD 305 thou- third millennium and the burst of the Internet sand). companies bubble in 2000 and then Sept 11, Total operating expenses rose by less value 2001 events in the US, and the mistake of the than the rise in total operating income. They FRB in maintaining the interest rates low until increased by KD 1.2 million, or by 22.7 percent, the mid-2004. The incubation for the 2008 cri- to KD 6.5 million now (KD 5.3 million in the sis was too obvious before the decision mak- first half of 2014). Total operating expenses to ing authorities. Therefore, it is certain that the total operating income scored 85.1 percent decision of raising the interest is coming with- (85.6 percent) while item of the drop in value in no more than half a year. The only impedi- provision for impairment decreased by KD 44 ment that may postpone it is the occurrence thousand, or by 5.2 percent, and scored KD of something unexpected and bad in our dis- 798,000 (KD 842,000 in the same period 2014). turbed world. This explains the rise in net profit margin before discounting the provision for impair- 2. Aggregated Performance for Banks’ ment of drop in value to 14.9 percent for the Sector - First Half 2015 current half compared with 14.4 percent in We completed last week our last analysis June 2014. for the individual performance of nine Kuwaiti The bank’s financial statements indicate banks in the first half of the current year. With that the bank’s total assets increased by KD our analysis this week to Warba Bank, we com- 50.6 million, or by 8.5 percent, and scored plete the analysis of the entire banking sector. about KD 654.4 million (KD 594.8 million in the Consolidated figures show that the net end of 2014). Rise in total assets scored KD banks’ profits, after deducting taxes and equi- 148.2 million, or by 29.8 percent, when com- ties rights, scored KD 371.2 million, a rise by pared with KD 497.1 million in the first half of KD 43.7 million, 13.3 percent, vis-a-vis KD 2014. Item of financing debtors increased by 327.5 million in the same period 2014. The first KD 68.5 million, or by 17.6 percent, to KD 456.6 half of the current year is considered the best million (70.8 percent of total assets) compared half period since the financial crisis in 2008. with KD 388.2 million (65.3 percent of total Profits of the five traditional banks scored assets in the end of 2014). about KD 256.6 million representing 69.1 per- It however increased by 50.2 percent, KD cent of the total net profits of the 10 banks ris- 152.7 million, compared with KD 304 million ing by 13.5 percent compared with the same (61.1 percent of total assets in the same period period last year. Islamic banks achieved about 2014). Item of deposits at banks decreased by KD 114.7 million representing 30.9 percent of KD 33.6 million, 27.4 percent, to KD 89 million the total net profits of the 10 banks rising by (13.8 percent of total assets) compared with 12.9 percent above their results in the same KD 122.6 million (20.6 percent of total assets in period last year. This means the performance the end of 2014). It decreased by 10.4 percent, of the tradition part is slightly better. i.e. KD 10.4 million compared with KD 99.4 mil- All banks achieved growth in their profits lion (20 percent of total assets in the same with varying rates. Compared with the banks period of 2014). in the GCC countries, their performance was Figures indicate that the bank’s liabilities better than the Omani banks which achieved (without calculating equities rights) increased 6 percent growth, the Saudi banks which by KD 50.2 million, or by 10 percent, and achieved 7 percent, the Qatari banks which scored KD 553.2 million (KD 502.9 million in achieved 10 percent, the Bahraini banks which the end of 2014) and increased by KD 147.9 achieved 11.3 percent, and Abu Dhabi banks million, or by 36.5 percent, compared with the which achieved 11.4 percent. The only superi- total in the end of the first half of last year. ority was achieved by the banks listed at Ratio of loans and advances to deposits scored Dubai Financial Market which achieved 32 per- 83.4 percent (75.6 percent). cent growth in their profits. Results of analyzing the bank’s financial Compared with the same period of last statements calculated on annual basis indicate year, financial performance statements indi- that all profitability indexes rose compared cate a healthy rise by 9 percent in total opera- with the same period 2014. The return on tions revenues of the banks compared with average equities (ROE) rose to 0.7 percent less rise in the value of operations expendi- compared with 0.1 percent in the same period tures by 0.2 percent only. This resulted in a rise 2014. Likewise, the return on average capital in net operations expenditures prior to provi- (ROC) increased to 0.6 percent (compare to 0.1 sions and distribution of depositors’ shares to percent). Likewise, return on average bank about KD 875.8 million (KD 764.5 million), a assets (ROA) rose to 0.1 percent (compare to 14.6 percent rise. 0.02 percent). EPS profit scored 0.3 fils versus Provisions balance during the first half of 0.04 fils. (P/B) scored 2.3 times (compare to 3 the current year rose by KD 24.1 million, 9.9 times). percent. Total provisions to net profits scored During the first half of the year, the bank 72.4 percent down from 74.7 percent in the managed to secure several financing deals for same period of last year. Distributions to local and regional corporations including issu- depositors increased by KD 17.4 million, 12.7 ing sukuk (bonds) in the amount of $500 mil- percent, compared with the same period last lion to the Indonesian Airline in addition to year. Merging Boubyan statements with those participating in a deal for leasing aircraft to of the National Bank of Kuwait was not taken Kuwait Airways. It also acquired a financing into account. Price multiplier/earning (P/E) in portfolio from Al Mulla International for the banking sector scored 34.5 times, Financing through a deal worth KD 20 million. improved, compared with 42.5 times in the The bank is still young in age and such activi- same period of 2014. Return on assets of the ties will be reflected positively on its future sector achieved a modest rise to 1.1 percent (1 performance. percent). And so did the return on equities which achieved 8.4 percent (8.3 percent). 5. The Weekly Performance of Al Juman center states that banks differ in Kuwait Stock Exchange the ratio of their provisions to the balance of The performance of Kuwait Stock Exchange their loans and advances. The highest is the (KSE) for the last week (3 working days due to Commercial bank of Kuwait by about 7.6 per- Eid Al-Adha holidays) was more active than cent, then the Gulf Bank by 7.1 percent, Warba the previous one, with all major indices show- Bank by 1.4 percent. The overall average to the ing an increase as well as the general index. 10 banks scored 5 percent. The concentration AlShall Index (value weighted) closed at 383.3 of loans and advances is still high. The NBK points at the closing of last Tuesday, showing share from the net loans and advances scored an increase of 6.4 points or about 1.7 percent 31.7 percent and for KFH it was 20.6 percent. compared to previous week’s closing. This means that two of the banks alone cap- However, the index is down by 60.7 points or tured 52.3 percent thereof and the other 8 about 13.7 percent compared to its closing at banks captured less than half, or 47.7 percent. year end 2014. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 BUSINESS Taxes and tobacco consumption in the Gulf

Government spending in the Gulf in low- and middle-income countries, sumes most in volume terms. Saudi procedures, which further constrains Proposal for a New GCC Excise Cooperation Council (GCC) countries has where lower incomes tend to make peo- Arabia, with the largest GCC population, tobacco tax policy options. Duty Regime for Tobacco been rising rapidly since the onset of the ple more sensitive to price changes. This is the largest market for the cigarette The GCC countries should agree and Arab Spring. On the revenue side, oil & price increase is interlinked with price industry1, closely followed by the UAE. Tobacco taxation in the GCC introduce excise taxes on tobacco con- gas revenues account for more than 85 and tax measures, as Article 6 of the WHO The uniform system of cigarette taxa- sumption as a policy tool to increase percent of GCC government revenue. Framework Convention on Tobacco Constraints on GCC Tobacco tion places the Common External Tariff at tobacco prices for health reasons and to This high dependence on oil & gas makes Control states: ‘Price and tax measures Tax Policy Options 100 percent of the CIF price (ad valorem) raise revenue. Ideally, the introduction the GCC countries highly vulnerable to oil are an effective and important means of The GCC countries are considering and a minimum specific duty equivalent of domestic excise taxes on tobacco price fluctuations, with the recent decline reducing tobacco consumption by vari- raising custom duty on tobacco, both to to SAR 100 per 1,000 cigarettes, whichev- should be in the form of a specific nom- in oil prices bringing fiscal sustainability ous segments of the population, in par- raise revenues and for health objectives er is higher. The minimum specific duty inal excise duty to be introduced in concerns to the forefront. The IMF esti- ticular young persons.’ of reducing consumption and smoking component of taxation is an essential each GCC member state consisting of a mates that the GCC fiscal balance is However, despite clear evidence that incidence (as per WHO guidelines). Earlier component, given that it enables a fixed amount per 1,000 cigarettes or expected to turn into deficit of USD 113 increasing taxes is an effective interven- this month, the GCC endorsed a call by secure contribution towards the govern- equivalent units of other tobacco prod- billion (8 percent of GDP) in 2015 from a tion to reducing tobacco use whilst the WHO to raise taxes on tobacco. ment revenue base. The minimum specif- ucts. The new excise duty would be surplus of USD 76 billion (4.5 percent of increasing government revenues, GCC However, they face a number of con- ic duty was first introduced by Saudi introduced by the Ministries of Finance, GDP) a year ago. countries remain constrained by interna- straints in achieving their objectives giv- Arabia in the 1990s and was fully harmo- with a revised mandate enabled by the To address their revenue vulnerability tional & bilateral trade agreements from en their international obligations. nized among GCC member states when requisite legal & regulatory reforms, and fiscal sustainability the GCC coun- raising the common external tariff on cig- International & bilateral trade agree- Kuwait adopted the current KD 8 per which would set up the revenue admin- tries should prioritize fiscal reform and arettes and other tobacco products ments constrain the GCC countries from 1,000 cigarettes minimum in 2002. istration. It is also feasible that the rev- put in place policies to diversify the thereby restricting the ability of the GCC raising the common external tariff on cig- In the years that followed, manufac- enue administration be out-sourced to sources of government revenue. to raise prices to reduce tobacco con- arettes and other tobacco products turers have increased prices of many customs, which then becomes Customs Revenue diversification policies should sumption. thereby restricting the ability of the GCC brands above the levels at which the & Excise. be directed not only at mobilizing non- to raise prices to reduce tobacco con- minimum duty applies, thus increasingly Additionally, there should be GCC oil revenue in the short run, but also at Tobacco Consumption in sumption and smoking incidence, while subjecting them to the ad valorem com- policy harmonization ie, introduction of improving the buoyancy of tax revenue. the Middle East increasing government revenue from ponent of the tariff. However, the mini- tobacco excise taxes should be applied Government revenue diversification The Middle East and North Africa tobacco taxation. The GCC nations are mum specific duty was not systematically uniformly (including on domestic pro- reforms are recommended with the most region is one of the fastest growing con- members of the WTO and have to com- adjusted for inflation and its real value duction), equally and in synchronized efficient plan being to introduce both sumers of tobacco products, especially ply with their treaty commitments and and incidence has declined. manner in all countries in order to pre- broad-based sources of taxation (a Value cigarettes. With a young, fast-growing with a maximum import duty, known as Any increase in specific duty would vent arbitrage opportunities and illicit Added Tax) and indirect taxes (excise tax- population, where smoking is culturally the ‘bound’ rate. The current 100 percent mean that all cigarettes must pay the trade or smuggling. The process of es) on specific goods and products like acceptable and with low awareness of import duty across the GCC is set at the minimum amount of tax regardless of implementation of the new tax structure gasoline, diesel, alcohol and tobacco. health implications, tobacco consump- bound rate for both Bahrain and Kuwait. their CIF price. By contrast, when the ad should also be gradual to avoid encour- “The Global Tobacco Epidemic 2015” tion is high. In 2010, the region account- Furthermore, free trade agreements valorem duty rises, the price of mid and aging smuggling & illicit trade. This will report, states that 6 million people a year ed for a 7.1 percent market share of glob- signed by Bahrain and Oman separately premium price cigarette brands increase enable the building of tax capacity in die from tobacco-related diseases, with al cigarettes volume, the fourth largest with the US dictate that the countries by more than that of low and cheap the form of tax revenue authorities to that number estimated to increase to 8 globally. Significantly, the smoking of remove tariffs on cigarettes (among oth- brands given that the tax charged is a implement the fiscal reform, monitor million people by 2030. According to the pipe tobacco in the region, popular due er products) within a ten-year timeframe proportion of the CIF price. This provides and collect revenue. The set-up of an World Health Organisation (WHO) and to the consumption of shisha, represents (due 2016 and 2019 respectively). Last, an incentive to consumers to substitute, excise revenue administration has the Tobacco Free Initiative (TFI), a 10 percent roughly 45.5 percent of global demand. but not the least, the GCC Customs trading down to cheaper and lower qual- added advantage of facilitating the price increase on a pack of cigarettes By country, Saudi Arabia has the highest Union agreement includes a Common ity products, which could reduce govern- introduction of other excises, notably on would be expected to reduce demand for per capita consumption of shisha pipe External Customs Tariff (CET) for goods ment revenues under a purely ad val- gasoline, diesel and other oil products - cigarettes by about 4 percent in high- tobacco in the world while Egypt, which imported from outside the GCC, as well orem tax regime and undermine govern- gradually leading to revenue diversifica- income countries and by about 5 percent is MENA’s largest cigarettes market, con- as common customs regulations and ments’ health objectives. tion and eventually fiscal consolidation.

Burgan Bank announces names of daily winners of Yawmi account

KUWAIT: Burgan Bank announced the names the account balance is KD 500 and above, the of the lucky winners of its Yawmi account account holder will be qualified for both the draw, each taking home a prize of KD 5,000. quarterly and daily draws. 1. FAISAL MUSALLAM FALAH AL HUBAIDAH Burgan Bank encourages everyone to open 2. LUOLWAH MOHAMMAD RABEIA a Yawmi account and/or increase their deposit 3. SAMI MAHMOUD HASAN AL RABIAH to maximize their chances to becoming a win- 4. KHALED AHMAD ABDULLAH AL JASEM ner. The more customers deposit, the higher 5. LILIIA ABDU the chances they receive of winning. For more To further add to the anticipation of Yawmi information on opening a Yawmi account or account customers, Burgan Bank now offers a about the new quarterly draw, customers are Quarterly Draw with more chances to win urged to visit their nearest Burgan Bank higher rewards, entitling one lucky customer branch and receive all the details, or simply to win KD 125,000 every three months. The call the bank’s Call Center at 1804080 where Yawmi Account now offers daily and quarterly customer service representatives will be draws - the quarterly draw requires customers delighted to assist with any questions on the POY innovation seminar 2015 to maintain a minimum amount of KD 500 in Yawmi account or any of the bank’s products their account for 2 months prior to draw date. and services. Customers can also log on to Additionally, every KD 10 in the account, will Burgan Bank’s www.burgan.com for further DUBAI: Every year, the biggest brand names renowned speakers from the industry. about the increase of program-led advertising entitle customers to one chance of winning. If information. from across the gulf gather under one roof to Stephen Hillebrand, CEO TNS Market Research and competition on main social platforms, he recognize the most innovative products at the gave a snapshot of the region’s online media urged brands to look at improving their earned Product of the Year Awards (POY). The presti- consumption habits and where this region is media to generate better data and improve gious award rewards innovation in the FMCG heading in terms of social media, with a spe- ROI on the marketing investments. Also pres- Strategy, not tech drives sector, by allowing the customers themselves cial focus on GCC women. Amira Rashad, Head ent in the panel was Daniel Neuwirth, the co- to vote and select winners. And every year of Brand, Facebook Middle East, discussed the founder of Shahiya.com. He spoke about how after the award ceremony, POY conducts an measures of success for FMCG brands on Shahiya engages housewives on social media, digital transformation interactive seminar for all participating brands Facebook and Instagram, and how it is impor- and about engaging home cooks and online under the umbrella of POY Talks: supporting tant to present the new changes occurring influencers on shahiya.com. DUBAI: Eighty percent of employees across all decidedly operational in focus. Digital strategies innovation. within Facebook and Instagram tools in order As always, the seminar received immense generations want to work for a digitally enabled in the most mature organizations are devel- The topic for this year’s seminar, held at the to help set the foundation for a proper under- response and strong participation. All-in-all, a company or digital leader, according to the lat- oped with an eye on transforming the business. Dubai Marina Yacht Club, was ‘How can FMCG standing of the platforms. healthy recap for everyone to remember to est Deloitte report “Strategy, Not Technology, l Taking risks is becoming a cultural norm - brands succeed in establishing online engage- Kaswara Al-Khatib, Chairman at UTURN, keep their audience at the forefront of all mar- drives Digital Transformation”. In addition, more Digitally maturing organizations are more comment through social media?’ The seminar shed light on how online video is different keting activities, as it is consumers that decide than 75 percent of respondents from digitally fortable taking risks than their less digitally helped FMCG clients understand the progress- from conventional TVCs, he explained how the rise and fall of any brand - a philosophy the mature companies agree that their organiza- mature peers. More than 50 percent of respon- ing social media landscape and how they can there are many ways to create video content Product of the Year Award truly stands for. tions provide the necessary skills to capitalize dents from less digitally mature companies see optimize their efforts and investments to build that can go viral, and how people need to Product of The Year is currently receiving regis- on digital trends. Among low maturity entities, their organization’s fear of risk as a major short- effective social media presence. Key speakers understand what makes a really good piece of trations for its 2016 edition, the deadline for the number drops to 19 percent. coming. To make their organizations less risk from Facebook- Instagram, Diwanee publish- video. Herve Cuviliez, CEO at Diwanee, spoke closing the edition is September 30, 2015. The report, conducted by Deloitte and MIT averse, business leaders should embrace failure ing group, Shahiya.com, U Turn and TNS mar- Sloan Management Review, is based on find- as a prerequisite of success. They must also ket research addressed the penetration and ings from the fourth annual global survey of address the likelihood that employees may be use of online tools in the GCC market and how more than 4,800 business executives across 27 just as risk averse as their managers and will women are specifically engaging through the industries and 129 countries. It reveals that the need support to become bolder. different social media platforms. ability to digitally transform and reimagine a l The digital agenda is led from the top - The digital world has been evolving since business is determined in large part by a clear Maturing organizations are nearly twice as likely the very beginning. New engagement plat- digital strategy supported by leaders who foster as less digitally mature entities to have a single forms are popping up every day and getting a culture able to change and reinvent their person or group leading the effort. In addition, outdated the next day. Only a few have sur- organizations. “The importance of having a employees in digitally maturing organizations vived the test of time by changing with the clearly articulated digital strategy was a major are highly confident in their leaders’ digital flu- times. The seminar also shed light on how dif- finding. Those companies developing enter- ency. Digital fluency, however, does not ferent social media platforms have experi- prise-level digital strategies are moving ahead, demand mastery of the technologies. Instead, it enced changes and how a business can build while those that are not, are struggling,” Rashid requires the ability to articulate the value of dig- healthy engagement with their audiences, by Bashir, consulting partner and Monitor Deloitte ital technologies to the organization’s future. understanding what sort of content con- Leader in the Middle East. “These digitally More than 75 percent of respondents from digi- sumers like to engage with. The growing pop- maturing companies embrace innovation and tally mature companies say their leaders have ularity of video content was also discussed, collaboration; they have leaders who under- sufficient skills to lead digital strategy. Nearly 90 focusing on what it takes to develop interest- stand both technology and its potential impact percent say their leaders understand digital ing video content that can go viral and simul- on the business, and they understand that con- trends and technologies. Only a fraction of taneously achieve brand objectives. Examples tinued digital advancement depends upon respondents from early stage companies have were used to show how it is not only impor- retaining and developing talent,” he added. the same level of confidence: 15 percent and 27 tant to develop interesting content, but to percent, respectively. also distribute it at the right time to the right Other key findings of the report include: l Stories gain employee buy in and organi- people. l Digital strategy drives digital maturity - zational traction for digital transformation - The panel consisted of some of the most Only 15 percent of respondents from compa- Telling digital stories creates pride in organiza- nies at the early stages of what the study refers tions. Companies need to demonstrate their to as digital maturity - in which digital has trans- ability to tell the digital story, and what it means MEA PC market suffers sharpest ever decline formed processes, talent engagement and busi- to live in the digital world for business. ness models - say that their organizations have l Innovation of digital technologies must be DUBAI: The Middle East and Africa (MEA) PC and demand in several key markets across the tions both inside and outside the MEA region will a clear and coherent digital strategy. Among the fostered - More than 70 percent of respondents market suffered a sharp year-on-year decline of region. In the UAE, a slowdown in tourism spend- remain largely responsible for the slower digitally maturing, more than 80 percent do. from maturing companies say that their man- 25.6 percent in Q2 2015, marking it as steepest ing - primarily from Russia and Europe - contin- demand, particularly in key markets such as l The power of a digital transformation strat- agers encourage them to innovate with digital decline ever recorded in the region for a single ued to inhibit PC demand.” Turkey and Nigeria,” continues Charakla. “Low oil egy lies in its scope and objectives - Less digital- technologies. At lower levels of maturity, only quarter. The latest market insights from global The top three vendor positions remained prices are also impacting those countries whose ly mature organizations tend to focus on indi- 28 percent of respondents express the same technology research and consulting firm unchanged from the last few quarters, with each budgets rely strongly on oil revenues, ratcheting vidual technologies and have strategies that are sentiment. International Data Corporation (IDC) show that of the leading vendors suffering significant year- up the pressure on governments to control their overall PC shipments for the quarter fell to 3.3 on-year declines in their shipments to the region. spending. At the same time, the cannibalization million units. Desktops were down 21.2 percent HP continued to lead in terms of market share, of PC demand by tablets and smartphones con- year on year to 1.4 million units, while the note- but saw its shipments fall 26 percent year on tinues to hamper the market’s performance.” Etihad Airways to carry 230,000 book segment declined 28.6 percent to total 1.9 year. Second-placed Lenovo suffered a 19 per- In the longer run, IDC expects the MEA PC million units. cent decline, third-placed Dell posted a down- market to experience a partial recovery in 2016, guests over Eid Al-Adha period “Two of the biggest declines were seen in turn of 10.3 percent, and fourth-placed Acer with shipments tipped to grow 10 percent year Turkey and the ‘Rest of the Middle East’ region recorded a decrease of 29.3 percent, while Asus on year during those 12 months. The following Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, Commercial Officer, said: “We are pleased to be (Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan and maintained its position at number five but expe- years are forecast to remain close to flat in terms expects to carry over 230,000 guests during the able to fly a large number of guests during the Eid Palestine),” says Fouad Charakla, research manag- rienced a decline of 26.7 percent. Once again, of shipment growth. However, as previously upcoming Eid Al Adha period, an increase of Al Adha period, covering destinations from all cor- er for personal computing, systems, and infra- local desktop assemblers suffered significantly in reported, there will be a gradual shift in the almost 20 per cent over the same period last year. ners of our global network”. “This year we have structure solutions at IDC Middle East, Africa and comparison to the previous year as demand for weight of demand from consumers to the com- Between 45,000 and 50,000 guests will travel dur- already introduced five new routes, with the addi- Turkey. “Both these territories carried over high their devices continues to be cannibalized by the mercial segment as a growing proportion of ing Eid Al Adha with the busiest travel day expect- tion of Kolkata, Madrid, Entebbe, Edinburgh and inventory levels from the previous quarter as a growing availability of refurbished PCs. home users switch from PCs to tablets and ed to be Saturday, 26 September. Top destinations Hong Kong to our network, providing our guests result of a slowdown in demand. This factor was 2015 as a whole is expected to be the region’s smartphones and commercial end users main- for travel over the period are London, Bangkok, more travel options,” said Baumgartner. Guests are an inhibitor of PC shipments in other parts of the worst ever performance, with overall PC ship- tain their loyalty to PCs. As a result, commercial Manila, Sydney, New Delhi, Paris, New York, encouraged to check-in online 24 hours before region as well, including the UAE. Currency fluc- ments for the year set to fall 15.7 percent year on demand for PCs in the region is expected to sur- Melbourne and Munich. flights depart and arrive at the airport at least three tuations also had a negative impact on supply year to total 15.2 million units. “Currency fluctua- pass that from home users by the year 2017. Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief hours before flight departure out of Abu Dhabi. technology THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 Robot revolution sweeps China’s factory floors

SHENZHEN: In China’s factories, the robots It’s part of a broader overhaul of the econ- A revolution in wages is adding impetus to the automa- intensity by a lot,” said TCL Chairman Tomson are rising. For decades, manufacturers omy as China seeks to vault into the ranks of Shenzhen Rapoo Technology Co is tion revolution. China relied on a seemingly Li. China held the title of world’s biggest mar- employed waves of young migrant workers wealthy nations. But it comes as the country’s among the companies at ground zero of this endless supply of cheap labor for decades to ket for industrial robots for the second straight from China’s countryside to work at count- growth slows amid tepid global demand transformation. At its factory in the southern power its economic expansion. That equa- year in 2014, with sales rising by more than less factories in coastal provinces, churning that’s adding pressure on tens of thousands Chinese industrial boomtown of Shenzhen, tion is changing as the country’s working half to 56,000, out of a total of 224,000 sold out cheap toys, clothing and electronics that of manufacturers. With costs rising and prof- orange robot arms work alongside human age population stops growing and more globally, according to the International helped power the country’s economic its shrinking, Chinese manufacturers “will all operators assembling computer mice and Chinese graduate from university, resulting Federation of Robotics. ascent. Now, factories are rapidly replacing need to face the fact that only by successfully keyboards. “What we are doing here is a rev- in a dwindling supply of unskilled workers, There’s plenty more room for explosive those workers with automation, a pivot that’s transitioning from the current labor-oriented olution” in Chinese manufacturing, said annual double-digit percentage increases in sales growth. China has about 30 robots for encouraged by rising wages and new official mode to more automated manufacturing will Pboll Deng, Rapoo’s deputy general manag- the minimum wage and rising labor unrest. every 10,000 factory workers compared with directives aimed at helping the country they be able to survive in the next few years,” er. The company began its push into Deng said Rapoo’s wage bill rising 15-20 437 in South Korea and 152 in the United move away from low-cost manufacturing as said Jan Zhang, an automation expert at IHS automation five years ago. Rapoo installed percent a year was one big factor driving its States. The global average is 62. Beijing wants the supply of young, pliant workers shrinks. Technology in Shanghai. 80 robots made by Sweden’s ABB Ltd. to use of robots. “Frontline workers, their China’s number to rise to 100 by 2020. The assemble mice, keyboards and their sub- turnover rate is really high. More and people switch to robots has raised fears that it will components. The robots allowed the com- are unwilling to do repetitive jobs. So these contribute to slowing job though there are pany to save $1.6 million each year and trim two issues put the manufacturing industry few signs that’s happening yet. Deng said its workforce to less than 1,000 from a peak in China under huge pressure,” he said. Rapoo hasn’t had to resort to layoffs. Rather, of more than 3,000 in 2010. China’s auto industry was the trailblazer for the company is just not replacing workers who Such upgrading underscores the grand automation, but other industries are rapidly quit. “It’s not simply replacing the operation of plans China’s communist leaders have for adopting the technology as robots become workers by robot. We do more than that. We industrial robotics. President Xi Jinping smaller, cheaper and easier to use. It now are making a robot platform” in which humans called in a speech last year for a “robot revo- only takes on average 1.3 years for an indus- and machines work together to make produc- lution” in a nod to automation’s vital role in trial robot in China to pay back its invest- tion more flexible, he said. raising productivity. Authorities have ment, down from 11.8 years in 2008, accord- On a recent tour of Rapoo’s factory, Deng announced measures such as subsidies and ing to Goldman Sachs. pointed out the efficiencies. As a conveyor tax incentives over the past three years to belt carried circuit boards out of an industrial encourage industrial automation as well as Industrial robots soldering machine, a robot arm removed development of a homegrown robotics Companies such as electronics maker TCL them from metal jigs and placed them on industry. Some provinces have set up their Corp are using robots to produce higher-value another belt. Human workers typically do this own “Man for Machine” programs aimed at goods. At one factory in Shenzhen, TCL uses job in other factories, Deng said, but turnover replacing workers with robots. 978 machines to produce flat screen TV pan- is high because of the heat and repetitive- Guangdong, a manufacturing heartland els. At another TCL plant in Hefei, near ness. In a glass-walled room, robots assem- in southern China, said in March it would Shanghai, steel refrigerator frames are bent bled receivers for wireless mice, tasks that invest 943 billion yuan ($148 billion) to into shape before being plucked by a blue were previously done by 26 people, Deng encourage nearly 2,000 large manufacturers Yasakawa robot arm that stacks them in neat said. Now, one or two humans supervise as a to buy robots, the official Xinhua news rows for further assembly. Fridges and big laser automatically fuses shut metal USB plug SHENZHEN: A Chinese worker is seated next to orange robot arms at Rapoo agency reported. Guangzhou, the provincial washing machines have heavy internal com- housings, four at a time, while steps away, Technology factory in southern Chinese industrial boomtown of Shenzhen. —AP capital, aims to have 80 percent of manufac- ponents, so “if you use automated robots to robot arms slide the plugs into plastic turing automated by 2020. A relentless surge make them, they also let you cut your labor sleeves. —AP Apple’s hack attack exposes flaws in building apps behind ‘Great Firewall’ Experts point the finger at lax security procedures

BEIJING: China’s “Great Firewall” cy’,” said Andy Tian, CEO of Asia ‘Huge mistake’ firms had said they were pushed may have been partly to blame for Innovations, a Chinese app develop- The App Store had previously to download Apple’s developer the first major attack on Apple Inc’s er. “Ignorance on the side of Apple, been almost entirely free of mal- toolkit from unofficial sources in App Store, but experts also point complacency on the side of Chinese ware, and it is unclear how the China because of the slow internet the finger at lax security procedures companies.” The incident was a blow altered code withstood Apple’s speeds when connecting to inter- of some big-name Chinese tech to the reputations of some of China’s famously tough app approval national services. firms and how Apple itself supports tech champions, in what some app process, in which developers often The country’s censorship archi- Thuraya doubles the choice with developers in its second biggest makers saw as collateral damage wait a week for reviews of updates tecture, dubbed the Great Firewall, market. A malicious program, from the tight controls Beijing places to their apps. “These reviews are does not block app developers from new SatSleeve+, SatSleeve Hotspot dubbed XcodeGhost, hit hundreds - on the Internet within its borders, legendary for how particular Apple downloading the official version of possibly thousands - of Apple iOS and weak infrastructure linking to is,” said Robert Walker, founder of Xcode, but the controls, along with KUWAIT: Leading Mobile Satellite Services in satellite mode inside. The SatSleeve apps, including products from some the outside world, that make over- mobile dating app Cuddli who low investment in infrastructure for (MSS) operator Thuraya Telecommunications Hotspot is the smallest, lightest, and most international connections, make today unveiled a new generation of capable in the industry. Both models let you using services based outside China SatSleeve models, offering greater choice, make calls, use messaging applications, a painful process. The world’s sec- improved quality and a new hotspot option. update your social network, send and receive ond-largest economy has average When SatSleeve was launched in 2013 it pio- email and SMS, and access apps. They also internet speeds more than three neered the “bring your own device” (BYOD) come with an additional safety feature - a times slower than those in the concept in the satellite industry. Now programmable SOS button that works even if United States, according to online Thuraya goes further with two new models, your smartphone isn’t connected. This con- content delivery firm Akamai’s lat- and has identified a clear consumer target venient function lets customers call a prede- est State of the Internet report. Slow market for the range, running alongside core fined number of their choice. internet connections, along with government, media, energy, and NGO sec- Thuraya SatSleeve+ and SatSleeve government censorship, have long tors. Hotspot offer fast, simple connectivity on the been a top concern among foreign SatSleeve+ and SatSleeve Hotspot will move, in remote areas normally beyond the businesses in China. The issue has appeal to travellers, adventurers and outdoor reach of smartphones, or in urban areas been exacerbated in recent months sportspeople, or simply to consumers who where terrestrial networks have become by crackdowns on tools used to cir- want the assurance that their smartphone unavailable or unreliable. Connection is easy, cumvent the Great Firewall, such as will connect even when terrestrial networks gaining access to Thuraya’s vast coverage Virtual Private Networks. are unavailable or damaged. Thuraya will area spanning Europe, Africa, the Middle market SatSleeve+ and SatSleeve Hotspot East, Asia and Australia. SatSleeve+ and Local support through existing distribution partners; inno- SatSleeve Hotspot work either with a Thuraya China is a huge market for vative agreements it has developed with SIM card or with a GSM SIM card from more Apple, which earned around $13 mobile network operators (MNOs) in key than 360 Thuraya roaming partners world- billion in Greater China in the last markets; and new channels generated wide. financial quarter and in January through online retailer Expansys. Thuraya continues to add new partners 2014 said Chinese developers had Thuraya’s Chief Executive Officer, Samer and extend existing partnerships as it takes launched 130,000 apps for its Halawi, said: “Thuraya continues to innovate, the new SatSleeve models to market. Halawi mobile devices and personal com- improve its range and widen its appeal. said: “MNOs around the world can offer their puters. The size of that contribution SatSleeve+ and SatSleeve Hotspot offer dou- customers a first-of-a-kind service that deliv- to the tech giant’s bottom line has ble the choice, and demonstrate triple inno- ers constant 100% geographical coverage. fuelled resentment among some of vation: the models themselves are new; the This sets the MNO apart from their competi- the Chinese firms who are making way we’re selling them online across Europe tors, and generates a higher average revenue NANJING: Chinese customers visit a new Apple store in Nanjing, eastern China’s Jiangsu those apps, who complain of lack is groundbreaking; and agreements with per user (ARPU). Retailers can for the first province. Computing giant Apple said on September 21 it has removed software from its App of support. If Apple had provided a new MNOs in key geographies will bring us time offer an exciting product that comple- Store, after reports said hundreds of apps including some of China’s most popular were infected local, quick source for the official into direct contact with important customer ments their smartphone offerings.” with malware. —AFP Xcode software sooner it could markets. Thuraya’s purpose is to save and have avoided the problem, said improve lives, and these products will allow About Thuraya of China’s most successful tech com- seas downloads patchy and slow. worked for Microsoft in China. software developer Feng Dahui. more people to be connected when and Thuraya Telecommunications Company is panies used by hundreds of millions Companies affected by the “Supposedly, a security review is “Apple doesn’t care enough where they need it.” an industry leading MSS operator and a glob- of people. XcodeGhost attack included Tencent part of that. But they missed this about Chinese developers, nor SatSleeve+ features a new voice routing al telecommunications provider offering Palo Alto Networks, the US inter- Holdings Ltd, one of the world’s repeatedly over dozens of different does it value Chinese users,” said system that improves on the sound quality, innovative communications solutions to a net security company that spotted biggest internet firms, and Uber applications. A huge mistake on Feng. But regardless of the chal- and can be used with a wider range of smart- variety of sectors including energy, broadcast the problem, says the attacker could Technologies Inc’s biggest chal- their part.” lenges facing them in China, many phone models than before. It comes with a media, maritime, military and humanitarian send commands to infected devices lenger, Didi Kuaidi, which just com- An Apple spokeswoman did not app developers and security universal smartphone adaptor, broadening NGO. Thuraya’s superior network enables that could be used to steal personal pleted a $3 billion private fundrais- respond to questions about the experts said the tech firms them- its appeal to a larger number of smartphone clear communications and uninterrupted information and, in theory, conduct ing round. Tencent, whose WeChat app approval process and why selves bear the most responsibility owners than was previously possible. The coverage across two thirds of the globe by phishing attacks. The hackers target- messaging service is one of China’s developers in China were using for the attack, which has affected adaptor also allows users to switch between satellite and across the whole planet through ed the App Store via a counterfeit most popular apps, and Didi Kuaidi unofficial Xcode, but a senior exec- mostly Chinese companies and handsets, so owners of more than one smart- its unique GSM roaming capabilities. The version of Apple’s Xcode “toolkit” - declined to comment, beyond say- utive said on Tuesday the compa- users so far. Eswar Priyadarshan, phone do not need to buy additional kit. company’s diverse range of technologically the software used to build apps to ing that they had fixed the issue and ny would make it easier for CEO of Tasteful, which creates food SatSleeve Hotspot’s stand creates a superior and highly reliable mobile satellite run on its iOS operating system - users’ data had not been compro- Chinese developers to download and dietary apps, noted that he portable satellite Wi-Fi hotspot, giving peo- handsets and broadband devices provide which Chinese developers used mised. NetEase Inc, whose music its tools. Marketing chief Phil does not know any US developers ple satellite connectivity without physically ease of use, value, quality and efficiency. because they could download it streaming app was also hit, issued a Schiller told Chinese news site who use third-party Xcode. “It’s like docking their smartphone to a unit, and free- Thuraya remains committed to serving faster. mea culpa on its official Weibo Sina.com it would offer domestic buying a Toyota and getting a dom to move indoors. A SatSleeve Hotspot humanity through delivering the essential “I would use the phrase ‘conver- microblog, apologizing to users for downloads within China of its third-party engine installed - it’s user can leave the stand outside, stay indoors tools for optimal connectivity, never leaving gence of ignorance and complacen- negligence. developer software. Some Chinese going to break,” he said. —Reuters or in their vehicle, and use their smartphone anyone out of reach.

With iPhone launch, Apple eyes a better customer connection

WASHINGTON: It’s not just another iPhone offering to finance the phone for as little as $27 tracts. The shift means “customers are more like- Shortening the cycle afford a new one. “Apple can potentially leverage launch. This time, Apple is pushing not only a per month, or allow customers to lease on an ly to upgrade more quickly,” said Jan Dawson at Some analysts say Apple’s moves may boost partners (Brightstar in the United States and new device, but what it says is a new relation- annual basis to upgrade to a new phone each Jackdaw Research. “They obviously will be com- sales by shortening the upgrade cycle-allowing Foxconn in China) to resell the one-year old ship with its customers. By offering for the first year. It was not known if Apple would expand ing to an Apple store, they won’t go to a carrier customers to get a new iPhone each year on rela- iPhones in the second-hand market, which helps time monthly installment payments on direct the program to non-US customers. The bold store where they might be enticed to buying a tively easy terms. The program “helps bolster address price points the new iPhones cannot,” sales and a new lease option for US customers, move by Apple, which begins selling its new Samsung or something else,” he said. share gains, increase customer stickiness to she said. Apple is moving to help break the stranglehold iPhone 6S and 6S Plus on Friday, gives the com- This “could dramatically increase churn” for Apple and enable a more competitive pricing Bob O’Donnell of the research and consulting of mobile carriers as it launches its new iPhones pany a new connection with customers, while carriers because customers can switch whenev- environment for iPhones,” said Amit Daryanani at group Technalysis said Apple is seeking to spark tomorrow. The program comes with US carriers allowing an easier switch of carriers. “Apple is er they like with no real penalty,” Dawson said. RBC Capital Markets. The program “seems new sales in a global smartphone market that is largely moving away from the model in which trying to have a more direct relationship with Walter Piecyk at BTIG Research said big carriers appealing, since it provides customers unlocked close to saturation, and that a better customer the smartphone is offered at a subsidized price its customers, it always has,” said Avi Greengart, like AT&T and Verizon “could face pressure to phones with device protection while allowing relationship can boost sales of other products in exchange for a two-year contract, unlike who follows mobile technology for the further enhance their programs if they don’t them to upgrade annually,” says a report by the and services. “We are facing a slowdown in the most markets around the world where con- research firm Current Analysis. want to risk losing even more control of the research firm Trefis. smartphone business, and I think we will see sumers pay upfront for a device. This means the By “unbundling” the device and the service, customer to Apple.” Piecyk said more than two- “A back of the envelope calculation says that Apple focus more on services,” he said. While price of the iPhone - $650 and up-is no longer this opens up competition for both, according thirds of iPhone sales in the US market current- the deal will work well for Apple.” Katy Huberty at some carriers may see a hit from the Apple pro- hidden in monthly service fees, creating a chal- to Greengart. The new model creates chal- ly come through carriers or third-party retailers Morgan Stanley said in a note to clients that the gram, IDC analyst Ramon Llamas said it frees lenge for the maker of the high-end smart- lenges for wireless carriers, which until recently and that “shifting that traffic to Apple Stores could boost iPhone shipments by 6.5 million in them to focus on service. “If you’re a carrier, you phone. have been able to maintain their customer base can help drive greater retail store traffic leading 2017. It has the added advantage of getting pre- want that traffic and voice and data revenue,” Apple is meeting the challenge head-on by by reserving the top-selling phones for con- to higher accessory sales to Apple.” owned iPhones out to more customers who can’t Llamas said. —AFP THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 HEALTH & SCIENCE Smoking, alcohol, obesity tar Europe’s bill of health ‘Smoking rates going down, but obesity is increasing’

LONDON: “Alarming” rates of smoking, alcohol con- mean that the next generation may lead shorter lives the next generation did not at a minimum have a high- sumption and obesity in Europe could mean the next than that we do.” er life expectancy than ours.” generation live shorter lives, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned yesterday. While World’s biggest drinkers ‘War’ on obesity Europeans are living longer than ever before, increases Although rates of smoking and alcohol consump- Some countries have seen a dramatic decline in in life expectancy and declines in premature mortality tion are declining in many parts of the continent, smoking rates, notably Greece, Russia and Bulgaria, may “flatten off” if the three big lifestyle risk factors are Europeans still smoke and drink more than people official figures show. Meanwhile obesity has tripled in not dealt with, a senior WHO director said. In a report anywhere else in the world, according to the WHO. It many European countries since the 1980s, with 23 per- on the region’s health, the WHO said there remain estimates that on average 11 liters of pure alcohol are cent of Europeans now obese, according to the report. “unacceptably high” differences in life expectancy drunk per person each year, while 30 percent of the “Smoking rates are going down everywhere-we have between countries, with an 11-year gap between the population uses tobacco. Meanwhile obesity is increas- very few exceptions-but obesity is increasing and one highest and lowest. ing, with 59 percent of Europe’s population either over- does not offset the other,” Stein told AFP. “What we do The first study of its kind for three years, the report weight or obese, ranking only slightly behind the not want to see is that we are winning the war against covers 39 countries including European Union mem- Americas which have the highest rates in the world. alcohol and smoking but losing the war against obesi- ber states as well as former Soviet republics. Levels of The European Health Report 2015 looked at ty.” She said there were also “unacceptable” health premature mortality from non-communicable diseases progress made towards the WHO’s “Health 2020” tar- inequalities to tackle. WOLFSBURG, LOWER SAXONY, Germany: People arrive for work through the main (NCDs) — including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, gets. Average life expectancy for men and women Infant mortality has fallen to an all-time low but gate of the headquarters of German car maker Volkswagen in Wolfsburg. —AFP diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases-are decreas- ranges from 71 in Belarus, Moldova and Russiato 82 for there remains a 10-fold difference between the highest ing “quickly”, the report said. But levels of alcohol con- countries like France, Italy and Spainaccording to fig- and lowest countries, with 22 deaths per 1,000 births in Exposing vehicle emissions sumption, tobacco use and obesity remain “alarmingly ures from 2011. The gap represents a fall of three years Kyrgyzstan compared to two in Finland. “The differ- high” and this “could mean that this progress is not since 2009 and Europe is “on track” to exceed targets to ences between countries in life expectancy and mor- problems not new for university maintained,” it warned. reduce premature mortality from NCDs by at least 1.5 tality are shrinking. But the differences are still there “Europeans live long lives and healthy lives. We are percent a year by 2020, the report said. But Stein said and some of them are extreme,” Stein said. This year’s CHARLESTON: A West Virginia University research sale did the company acknowledge putting the longest living region in the world,” said Claudia that there could be a “flattening off of the curve” affect- report also looked for the first time at the impact of “life unit that helped expose Volkswagen AG’s smog- stealth software in millions of its vehicles world- Stein, a senior WHO director for Europe. But “the differ- ing the next generation’s life expectancy, if lifestyle risk satisfaction” on life expectancy. Denmark, Finland, test scandal had been involved in another emis- wide. In informing Volkswagen of the violations, ences in health status between European countries factors are not addressed. “We think that the gains we Sweden and Switzerland-the four countries reporting sions test two decades ago involving polluting the EPA and CARB cited WVU’s research. are... inexplicably wide.” “If rates of smoking and alcohol see... the increases in life expectancy and the declines the most “life satisfaction” according to polling data col- trucks that had similar results. In October 1998, the Because smog tests are almost always done consumption and obesity do not decline we may risk in premature mortality... may flatten off if these risk fac- lected by Gallup-also have some of Europe’s highest WVU Center for Alternative Fuels, Engines and on dynamometers, VW got away with the scheme the gains in life expectancy we have seen-which may tors are not dealt with,” said Stein. “It would be tragic if life expectancy rates. — AFP Emissions discovered that more than 1.1 million for seven years, until the “clean transportation” trucks whose heavy-duty diesel engines had advocates went to WVU, which tests emissions passed emission inspections at the factory were using equipment that fits in car trunks. Instead of polluting much more than allowed because of doing the tests in West Virginia, researchers took devices designed to overcome emissions controls, their wares to the West Coast, where diesel cars Dan Carder, interim director of the unit, told The were easy to find. At the CARB test facility, “these Associated Press on Tuesday. vehicles were performing just as we would imag- The Justice Department publicly announced ine,” Carder said. “It wasn’t until we took them out the findings, after which several manufacturers onto the open road that we saw the discrepancies agreed to a $1 billion settlement. In the in their performance. You’re putting these suit- Volkswagen case, the WVU research team was case devices in the car and operating the car over hired by nonprofit pollution control advocate the real-world driving cycle. We pioneered this International Council on Clean Transportation to work back in 1998.” measure emissions on three cars: a 2012 VW Jetta, Other work the nonprofit Center for a 2013 VW Passat and a BMW X5 SUV. The BMW Alternative Fuels Engines and Emissions has done passed, but the university found significantly over the years includes emissions research on higher emissions from the Volkswagens, accord- tractor-trailer fleets for private companies, mili- ing to the US Environmental Protection Agency. tary combat and tactical ground vehicles for a The university and the council reported their defense contractor, and high-speed passenger findings to the EPA and the California Air ferries. The center has seven faculty members, five Resources Board in May 2014, but VW blamed the full-time staff engineers, five technicians, and problem on technical issues and unexpected con- more than 30 post-graduate students. It isn’t sup- ditions. The automaker even did a recall late last ported by the state or university but relies on con- year, without much improvement, the EPA said. tracts with outside agencies and companies, typi- Only when the EPA and the California board cally between $3 million to $4 million annually, refused to approve VW’s 2016 diesel models for Carder said. —AP Pfizer says it could be leader in cancer with many drugs

NEW YORK: Drug giant Pfizer is starting 20 clinical drug, breast cancer medicine Ibrance, now being trials this year and more soon after on treatments tested against multiple other cancers. She thinks NEW DELHI, India: An Indian livestock owner sits on a charpoy (rope bed) with a goat at a market ahead of the upcoming Eid Al-Adha festival in to conquer cancer as it also seeks to gain leader- by 2020 Pfizer could boost its cancer drug sales to the old quarters. —AFP photos ship in one of the hottest, and most lucrative, areas about 10 percent of revenue, up from barely 4 per- of medicine. A decade ago, the world’s second- cent of its $50 billion in annual revenue now. Asked biggest drugmaker by revenue wasn’t even a play- about the high prices for cancer medicines, given er in cancer medicine. Instead, it was known for that patients receive multiple treatments, Liz India’s goat sellers flock erectile dysfunction treatment Viagra and block- Barrett, head of cancer drug marketing, told buster cholesterol fighter Lipitor. reporters Pfizer will be looking at pricing for combi- New York-based Pfizer Inc. then chose to make nations of its drugs and noted the company gives cancer one of its core research areas, pitting it away billions of dollars of its medicines. to the Internet this Eid against cancer powerhouses including Novartis Patients and insurance plans increasingly are AG, Roche Holding AG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. raising alarms about prices of around $100,000 a and Merck & Co. Today, Pfizer has eight approved year for new drugs for cancer and some other con- NEW DELHI: After decades of flocking to tradi- ern Moradabad city said. “The goats sold online charm and nothing can match it. I am getting cancer medicines, four of them launched in the last ditions, plus recent huge price hikes for some old tional livestock markets ahead of Eid, breeders in are costlier than (those at) this market,” he added. customers for the goats amid this muck and foul four years. It’s running late-stage patient tests on drugs. Now Democratic presidential candidates India are now heading online to haggle a good Altamash Qureshi, who is selling four goats for a smell,” he said. Muslims sacrifice livestock on Eid five of those drugs for additional uses, has three Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders, the Vermont price for their prized animals. Goats, sheep and whopping four million rupees ($60,600) in total, and share the meat with family, friends and the other drugs in late-stage testing - usually the last senator, have made them campaign issues with cows are slaughtered worldwide to celebrate the said online shopping lacked the charm of tradi- poor to commemorate Ibrahim’s willingness to round before seeking regulators’ approval - and proposals to let Americans buy cheaper drugs major Muslim festival of Eid Al-Adha, which tional markets. “The market has got its own sacrifice his son Ismail on Allah’s request. — AFP has 14 other drug programs in early stages. overseas, bring the federal government bigger dis- throughout South Asia falls this year tomorrow. Those programs together provide for a two- counts on drugs it buys and even make insurance India’s markets have long been bursting with pronged attack on cancer, including tumor-killing plans cap what patients pay for their medication. breeders and buyers in the run up to Eid, with drugs and treatments in the promising new class feverish negotiations for the thousands of spe- called immuno-oncology that stimulate the Scientific insights cially bred animals. immune system to mount a stronger defense Pfizer’s scientists now are collaborating more But farmers said they were increasingly mov- against cancer. Scientists “have never been closer internally and have numerous partnerships with ing to India’s popular online classified portals like to finding a cancer cure,” Mikael Dolsten, Pfizer’s university researchers uncovering scientific insights Quikr and Olx, for easier and stress-free sales. “I head of worldwide research and development, and with other pharmaceutical and biotech com- am getting 10 to 15 calls every day,” Qaiser Khan, told journalists Tuesday during an update on the panies, said Mace Rothenberg, a senior vice presi- from the northern desert state of Rajasthan said. company’s cancer research strategy. dent who oversees Pfizer’s efforts to discover Khan said he usually travelled to markets potential cancer treatments. Those partnerships throughout Rajasthan in the lead up to Eid, keep- Different mechanisms range from one with iTeos Therapeutics giving ing him away from home for weeks. But this year “Compared to other companies, we are unique- Pfizer rights to two compounds in laboratory test- he has sold half a dozen goats online, including ly positioned to be a leader” in cancer, Dolsten ing to one testing rival Merck’s immuno-oncology one for 250,000 rupees ($3,800). added. He and other Pfizer executives said that’s drug Keytruda with two approved Pfizer drugs and “This is also hassle free for customers. We because killing tumors and preventing cancer an experimental one. deliver to their doorstep. Most of my friends are recurrence requires regimens of multiple drugs giv- Dolsten and other Pfizer executives said the key selling their livestock online,” Khan said, adding en together or sequentially, and the company has to better treatments is putting together the best that his most prized goat has been fed almonds many drugs that work by different mechanisms to targeted drug combinations and, before testing and milk for the last year. A search of the sites try together. “They clearly have the scale and R&D them in people, seeing how well they work on ani- shows a multitude of photos of “premium” and experience over time to be a major player in the mals manipulated to have tumors with the same “big black” goats on offer. Those camped out at a immuno-oncology market,” said Edward Jones ana- genetic variations as the patients they’re hoping to traditional market in New Delhi’s old city lyst Ashtyn Evans. “We’ve seen them do a lot in a help. Pfizer’s cancer research programs include shrugged off the online competition, saying cus- short time.” “They’re still pretty far behind Merck ones using six different types of technology to tar- tomers preferred to see animals in the flesh and Bristol in immuno-oncology,” she added, “but get tumor cells, from genetically engineered anti- before choosing one. it’s going to be a large market that will have room bodies to therapeutic vaccines, which use patients’ “Sales are yet to pick up, but there will be no NEW DELHI, India: An Indian livestock trader feeds his goat at a market ahead of the upcoming for multiple players.” own tumor cells to create vaccines personalized to impact on our business,” Juma Shah, from north- Eid Al-Adha festival in the old quarters. Evans said Pfizer’s best prospect is its newest the genetic characteristics of their cancer. —AP Clinton takes on Big Pharma, lays out drug plan

WASHINGTON: Democratic presidential frontrunner Hillary of their medical expenses. So the issue is one that resonates costs for working families at $250 per month for covered of the company of the moment, Turing Pharmaceuticals, Clinton unveiled a plan Tuesday to limit prescription medi- with many voters. Many aged Americans go bankrupt pay- medications. It would require pharmaceutical companies to which in August purchased the rights to a 60-year-old drug, cine costs, challenging the US pharmaceutical industry after ing for their medical care, and cut pills in half to make pre- spend a certain portion of their revenue on research and Daraprim, and soon afterward raised its price 50-fold, from the price for one drug skyrocketed by 5,000 percent. The scriptions last longer, while the uninsured in their millions development, and would aim to cut down on direct-to-con- $13.50 per pill to $750. “That’s price-gouging, pure and sim- United States has no government-led universal health care usually get little care until they have to head to an emer- sumer advertising by companies that receive substantial ple,” Clinton said, without mentioning the company by program for all its nationals. At least 33 million Americans gency room. federal tax breaks. “I want to both protect consumers and name. have no health insurance whatsoever, government data promote innovation, while putting an end to profiteering,” Daraprim fights toxoplasmosis, one of the most com- show. Clinton’s plan would allow for Medicare, the national Health care costs worrisome she said. She also vowed to end the ban on US consumers mon food-borne diseases. It often infects people with health insurance program set up specifically for people over The health care costs issue has been simmering in the purchasing US-made drugs from countries that sell them for immune systems that have been weakened HIV and AIDS, 65, “to negotiate for lower prices for its members,” a move early months of the US presidential race. But it catapulted less than in the United States. or from chemotherapy. Turing’s chief executive, Martin she said would save some $100 billion per year. into the national spotlight on Monday, when Clinton react- Shkreli, defended the price hike, saying his firm was taking a The problem of rising drug prices affects millions of ed to a company that raised by 50-fold the price of a drug End ban on cheap Rx imports money-losing drug and turning into a profit-maker that Americans. The majority are covered by private insurance used by AIDS and cancer patients and others with compro- “If the medicine you need costs less in Canada you would spur more research and innovation. “We’re taking the plans offered by employers for workers and their depend- mised immune systems. Clinton’s outrage over prescription should be able to buy it from Canada, or any other country revenue from Daraprim and trying to come up with a better, ents. And even with overall US health care costs trending drug “price-gouging,” and her vow to “lay out a plan to take that meets our safety standards,” she said. The United States’ safer, more effective version of it,” Shkreli told CNBC on slightly lower, prescription drug costs for consumers have it on,” sent pharmaceutical and biotechnology stocks into a neighbor to the north has nation health insurance for all; Monday. As for the new price tag, he said “we took it to a shot up-by more than 12 percent last year, according to four-percent slide Monday. In Iowa the next day, she the huge scope of “economies of scale” usually lowers costs, price where we can make a comfortable profit but not any Clinton. Even senior citizens with Medicare often pay part announced her plan that would cap out-of-pocket drug including for medications. Clinton also returned to the issue ridiculous profit.”— AFP THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 HEALTH & SCIENCE

WALDEN, Colorado: In this photo, male greater sage grouse, foreground, perform a mating ritual for females on a lake RAWLINS, Wyoming: Male sage grouses fight for the attention of a female, outside Walden. — AP photos southwest of Rawlins. With no protections for Western birds, focus is on land-use

BILLINGS, Montana: Before the applause fad- previously said the new BLM conservation plans ommended. Oil and gas activity can bring small oil and gas producers in particular. lem is that the BLM plans set different standards ed from the US government’s announcement were overly restrictive, particularly with oil and breeding to a halt if it gets too close to the birds, “Today’s decision will put more restrictions on from their own conservation plans. That that there would be no endangered species gas drilling. Their next step is to try to bring said Steve Holmer, a senior policy adviser with our energy producers, making it more costly to includes differences in buffer zone distances protections for the greater sage grouse, the criti- those federal conservation plans in line with the American Bird Conservancy. States and the operate and harder to provide the benefits of and caps on the total amount of land that can cism began over wide-reaching federal conser- their own. “This doesn’t end the discussion of BLM came up with their own proposals on how abundant, affordable energy to American fami- be disturbed in prime sage grouse habitat. vation plans meant to protect the bird’s habitat where we’re going to be,” Montana Gov. Steve to protect sage grouse habitat on the lands they lies,” said Dan Naatz, IPAA senior vice president The federal plans also are far more restrictive across 11 Western states. The land-use plans Bullock said after Jewell’s announcement. manage. The resulting plans are credited with of government relations and political affairs. in new leases for oil and gas sites in primary were released Tuesday after Interior Secretary In Wyoming, where the biggest concentra- staving off the Endangered Species Act protec- Some environmental groups also were critical sage grouse habitat. Bullock spokesman Mike Sally Jewell said additional federal protections tions of sage grouse are found, the plans would tions that state officials feared would cause of the BLM land-use plans, but for the opposite Wessler said state officials will pressure the BLM weren’t needed for the ground-dwelling bird limit disruptions like oil and gas drilling as far as even greater harm to the economies across the reason. Erik Molvar with the WildEarth to make their management plans more consis- that’s seen its habitat shrink due to oil and gas six-tenths of a mile away from any sage-grouse 257,000-square-mile region where the chicken- Guardians said the planning effort began with tent with Montana’s. Those restrictions haven’t drilling, grazing and other human activity. breeding area. Mines and oil and gas drilling sized bird ranges. “We think the plans need to promise, but the exceptions, modifications and generated the same response in Wyoming as The US Bureau of Land Management plans pads would need to be spaced no closer than be given a chance to work,” Holmer said, adding waivers they allow mean the protections could they have in Montana. Wyoming Gov Matt outline measures to help sage grouse across 67 every square mile. Also, drilling would be pro- that provisions in the documents allow for evaporate. Mead said he was satisfied with how the state’s million acres of public lands throughout the hibited for three and a half months each spring future changes if grouse numbers continue “What seems to be coming out the other conservation plan will work with the federal West, including 12 million acres of prime habitat during breeding season. Those restrictions their long-term decline. end of the sausage grinder is a weak collection plans. Wyoming officials worked with their fed- where strict limits on oil and gas limits will be apply only to designated “priority habitat” for of compromises that will not and cannot con- eral counterparts for much of the last decade to enforced. Federal lands make up more than half the birds, not everywhere they are found. And Federal management serve the species,” Molvar said. For states like find a mutually agreeable approach to sage the bird’s habitat. Many of the same state offi- they are far more permissive than the three- The Independent Petroleum Association of Montana, where 29 percent of sage grouse grouse. “We think we got it in a good place cials who cheered Jewell’s announcement have mile limit on breeding sites that scientists rec- America predicted the land-use plans will harm habitat is under federal management, the prob- now,” Mead said. —AP

Starbucks, Nike join 100% Barring ‘suicide hotspots’ cuts renewable energy pledge number who take their own life

NEW YORK: Major US companies faced legal requirements to curb Suicide a leading cause of death in 15- to 29-year-olds including Walmart, Starbucks and emissions under the Kyoto Protocol, Nike vowed yesterday to move com- which the United States shunned. LONDON: Installing barriers, safety nets and other from an average of 5.8 suicides a year before actions Experts say suicide hotspots are accessible, usually pub- pletely to renewable energy in the Several companies that joined the restrictions at notorious suicide hotspots like bridges, were taken, to an average of 2.4 deaths annually after- lic sites frequently used as a location and which gain a long term as part of a global effort RE100 initiative have faced criticism cliffs and railways could cut the number of suicides at wards. “reputation for suicide”. These can include bridges, tall against climate change. The non-prof- for aspects of their businesses. these sites by more than 90 percent, according to Measures aimed at blocking access to places where buildings, cliffs, railway tracks and isolated places rural it Climate Group announced the latest Walmart is known for its hostility to research published yesterday. In a large study covering people go to kill themselves led to 91 percent fewer sui- car parks and woodland. “Suicide attempts at these sites additions to its campaign during a labor unions but has been active on known hotspots around the world, researchers found cides a year when used in combination with other inter- are often fatal and attract high profile media attention week of events in New York that aim climate change, saying that environ- that other measures such as putting up signs and crisis ventions, and a 93 percent reduction when used alone. which can lead to copycat acts,” Pirkis said. — Reuters to build momentum for a global mental efforts are critical to maintain- telephones to encourage people to seek help also agreement to fight climate change. ing low costs. Walmart has already set appear to significantly reduce the number of deaths. Consumer goods giants Johnson & a goal of shifting entirely to renew- Suicide is currently the second leading cause of Johnson and Procter & Gamble, and ables, which it says now supply about death among 15- to 29 year-olds, according to World Oregon seeking solutions investment banking titan Goldman 24 percent of the retailer’s electricity. Health Organization (WHO) data. Across all age groups Sachs also joined the year-old effort. The Climate Group said that 36 worldwide, around 800,000 people kill themselves each “Our mission is to help people live major businesses now belong to the to droves of fearless deer year. Some of the world’s most notorious suicide sites longer, healthier and happier lives. We initiative. Companies that previously include London’s “Tube” subway system, the Eiffel Tower PORTLAND: A town in southern Oregon will hold a which lies in the heavily forested foothills of the understand the intrinsic link between joined include food giants Mars and in Paris, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and public meeting to discuss how to deal with droves Siskiyou and Cascade Mountains. “Deer just live a healthy environment and human Nestle, Ikea, H&M, electronics maker the Prince Edward Viaduct in Toronto. Jane Pirkis at the of fearless deer that wander the streets, occasionally there,” Vargas said. “They live amongst all the people health,” said Alex Gorsky, CEO of Philips and Indian software company University of Melbourne in Australia, who led this acting aggressively toward residents, state wildlife and when that happens there’s going to be conflict.” Johnson & Johnson, whose products Infosys. The announcement comes on research and published in The Lancet Psychiatry journal, officials said on Tuesday. The “Deer Summit 2015” Stromberg said on the city’s website that he range from bandages to pain relief the heels of a study that found that said it showed how certain intervention measures can will be chaired by Ashland Mayor John Stromberg wants to hear from community members with capsules. Renewable energy sources institutions worth $2.6 trillion have “buy time to allow an individual to reconsider their as part of efforts to address deer that have stalked ideas about what to do. The mayor could not be such as the sun and wind result in no renounced fossil fuels, sharply up actions and allow others the opportunity to intervene”. people, pawed at them with their hooves and even reached for comment on Tuesday, but city officials emissions of carbon dioxide, the key from a year earlier. But national plans Pirkis’ team conducted a systematic review and stomped on small dogs. have urged residents not to feed the deer, and to factor behind the planet’s rising tem- submitted ahead of a year-end con- meta-analysis of all studies examining the effectiveness “The deer have no fear of humans,” said Mark put up deer fencing or deer resistant plants. In a peratures that scientists fear will ference in Paris, which is aimed at of three suicide prevention measures - restricting access Vargas, District Wildlife Biologist for the Oregon statement, the officials said a recent attack on a cause worsening scarcities and disas- drafting a new global climate agree- to the means, encouraging help-seeking and increasing Department of Fish and Wildlife. The confident deer homeowner by a deer protecting its fawn was a ters. The Climate Group’s initiative, ment, show that the planet remains the likelihood of intervention by a third party. They then are a product of a long tradition in the town of reminder that locals share their community with dubbed RE100, does not set a dead- well off from a goal of limiting tem- used modeling to estimate the effect of each interven- 21,000 people of feeding and befriending them, all manner of wildlife. “No matter how cute and line for companies to meet the goal or perature rises to 2.0 degrees Celsius tion in isolation or in combination with others. Thee Vargas said. For the last two or three decades, the seemingly domesticated, these are wild creatures. spell out consequences if they do not. (3.6 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial results, using data from 18 studies in all, showed that black tailed deer have been known to roam into Their behaviors are unpredictable,” they said on European firms in particular have levels. — AFP the interventions significantly reduced the number of yards and stroll the downtown area of Ashland, the city’s website. — Reuters suicides at the sites in question - with deaths falling FOOD THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 Less can be more when it comes to fresh tomato sauce

By Katie Workman tomatoes into the boiling water, cook for 60 seconds, then use a slotted spoon to transfer omato lovers wait for this moment all them to the ice water. Cool for 1 to 2 min- year, that moment when the plants in utes. Place the tomatoes on a cutting board Tthe garden are struggling under the with a groove to catch the juices, then dump weight of those gorgeous red (or yellow or out the ice water, reserving the bowl. Peel off orange or even green) orbs, and the tables the tomato skins, then roughly chop the at the farmers markets threaten to buckle tomatoes, discarding the stem and any under the load. We slice and eat them as fast white core. Transfer the chopped tomatoes as we can, but we still can’t keep up. Nor can and any juices on the board to the bowl. we ever get enough. This is when fresh Return the large pot to medium heat. tomato sauce comes into play, turning a Add the oil, onion and garlic and saute, not basketful of ripe tomatoes into an easy din- allowing the garlic and onions to get more ner. than lightly golden, for about 5 minutes, or The beauty of this recipe is you can cook until soft. Stir in the red pepper flakes, if the tomatoes for as little or as long as you using, and season with salt and pepper. Add want, and you’ll still have a lovely, clean the tomatoes and all of their juices, then sauce. I like to take out about half of the increase the heat to high. Bring to a rapid sauce after 10 minutes, preserving the simmer, add the sugar, then cook for about sweet-acidic freshness of a barely cooked 10 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to tomato, then let the rest of the sauce sim- break down. mer for longer so that it reduces and con- Use a slotted spoon to transfer about half centrates and becomes deeper in flavor. of the tomatoes to a bowl. Continue to sim- The two batches are then reunited and mer the rest of the tomato mixture for whirred together, and the result is a sauce another 15 minutes until it thickens further with both depth and brightness. Not in the and some of the liquid evaporates. Stir the mood for that extra step? Just cook the reserved tomato mixture back into the pot whole thing for about 20 minutes, blend it along with the thyme and basil. Check and up and call it a day. Also, if you prefer a adjust the seasoning. While the tomato chunky rustic sauce, just skip the blending sauce finishes cooking, bring a large pot of step altogether. You can use absolutely any salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and tomatoes you like. Some are more meaty, cook according to package directions. some have more water and seeds, and the For a chunky sauce, you can simply drain sauce’s consistency, flavor and color will the pasta, return it to the pot, and toss with vary accordingly. the sauce to combine. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce as Fresh Tomato Sauce with Pasta smooth as you’d like right in its pot, or care- Ingredients 5 cloves garlic, minced 6 large fresh basil leaves, chopped or large bowl with ice water and have it nearby. fully transfer it to a food processor or 4 pounds ripe tomatoes (about 14 plum 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) shredded blender and pulse or puree the mixture - in tomatoes) Salt and ground black pepper, to taste 12 ounces dried pasta (any variety) Preparation batches if necessary - until it reaches the 3 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 teaspoon sugar Parmesan cheese, to serve Use a paring knife to cut an X across the desired consistency. Serve with grated 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Fill a bottom of each tomato. Carefully set the Parmesan. Simple means simple with this Zucchini soup

By Melissa D’Arabian array of vitamins. One medium squash provides vitamin B6, folate and over half our daily requirement of vitamin C, not n the farm-to-table food world of today, we often praise to mention minerals, such as iron and calcium. Zucchini the cook who keeps recipes simple, letting the ingredi- also sports a couple grams of protein, which are always Ients speak for themselves. Yet once I get started in the welcomed. kitchen, sometimes I can’t help but add in a final touch, an extra this or that (or two or three) that will make the whole Ingredients recipe really sing. 3 medium-large zucchini (about 1 1/2 pounds) So I’ll admit, when I gave myself the task of creating a Salt and ground black pepper truly simple weeknight soup, I had to exercise uncharacter- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, warmed istic restraint. In fact, truth be told, I made eight different to hot versions of this soup, half of which I allowed myself to con- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives tinue to tweak and taste, adding everything from low-fat 1 tablespoon lemon juice sour cream and citrus for tang to prosciutto chips and smoked paprika for a smoky edge. Guess which soup won Preparation the taste tests at my house? The simple 4-ingredient ver- Heat the oven to 400 F. Line a baking sheet with kitchen sion I’m sharing with you today. parchment. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then slice Four ingredients is all it takes to create this perfect meal off the nubby ends. Place the zucchini on the prepared starter. By starting my meals with a healthy veggie-driven baking sheet, then mist with cooking spray. Season with soup, I load up my family with vitamins and fiber before salt and pepper, then roast until tender, about 15 minutes, the main meal even begins. And since my kids usually turning halfway through. In a blender, combine the roasted arrive at the dinner table racing in from hours of soccer zucchini, hot broth, chives and lemon juice. Blend until practice or dance rehearsal, they are ravenous. Whatever I creamy and smooth. Serve immediately. feed them first has the highest chance of being eaten, so why not make it uber healthy? Zucchini - available most of the year despite technically being a summer squash - is full of fiber and offers nice What your chop really needs is an easy, warm salad

By Sara Moulton

his recipe is a template for topping sauteed steaks or chops of most any kind with a wilted salad, a splendid dish for a late summer dinner. Mostly, I’m tak- Ting my cues here from the Italians. In Florence, they like to pep up their grilled steaks with a drizzle of olive and a spritz of lemon, which cuts through the meat’s fattiness. Then there’s veal Milanese, a breaded chop with a salad on top. But the latter dish doesn’t marry the salad dressing to the chops, as I do here, and my chop isn’t breaded. Also, Caesar dressing is rooted in Mexico, not Italy. All of which is to say I guess my inspirations were pretty diverse. How to marry the meat to the salad? By taking advantage of the concentrated bits of reduced meat juices at the bottom of the pan, as well as the juices from the resting chops after they have been cooked. It’s then that the salad’s flavors - anchovies, garlic and shallots - are added to the skillet, followed by chicken broth, lemon juice and olive oil. As noted, these are basically the ingredients for a Caesar dressing with a little chicken broth added. As for the greens, feel free to experiment. If you prefer them to be more crispy and less wilted, don’t add them to the pan; just toss them with the warm dressing. Finally, I have called for lamb shoulder chops because they’re more affordable than rib or loin chops. They’re every bit as tasty as the pricier chops, even if they’re also marginally chewier.

Lamb Chops with warm Caesar Salad Ingredients 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided Four 1/2-inch-thick lamb shoulder or round bone chops Salt and pepper 4 anchovy fillets, chopped 2 tablespoons minced shallots 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth 2 tablespoons lemon juice 4 cups chopped escarole, dandelion greens (tough stems removed) or romaine 1 ounce shaved Parmesan cheese

Preparation In a large skillet over medium-high, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil. Reduce the heat to medium and add 2 of the lamb chops, sprinkled with salt and pepper. Cook until lightly browned on both sides, 5 to 6 minutes total for medium-rare. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Repeat with the remaining 2 chops in the oil remaining in the pan. Return the skillet to the heat and reduce to medium-low. Add 1 tablespoon of the remaining oil, the anchovies, shallots and garlic, then cook, stirring, for 1 1/2 minutes. Add the broth and lemon juice and cook, scraping up the brown bits on the bottom, for 1 minute. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, the greens, and a hefty pinch each of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring until the greens are slightly wilted, about 2 minutes. Add the juices from the resting lamb and remove from the heat. To serve, transfer the chops to each of 4 plates and top each chop with a quarter of the dressed wilted greens and the cheese. —AP THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 KID’S CORNER THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 TV PROGRAMS

18:00 Siba’s Table: Fast Feasts 14:30 The Simpsons 18:30 Siba’s Table: Fast Feasts 15:00 Lost 19:00 Chopped 16:00 Grey’s Anatomy 20:00 The Next Iron Chef 17:00 MasterChef - The 21:00 The Freshman Class 00:00 American Horror Story: Freak Professionals Show 01:45 Solo Para Dos 00:20 Misfit Garage 21:30 The Freshman Class 03:30 The Invisible Woman 18:00 The Listener 01:10 Man vs Expert 22:00 Australian Food Adventures 01:00 Marvel’s Agents Of 19:00 The Listener S.H.I.E.L.D. 05:30 One Chance 02:00 Deadly Dilemmas With Matt Moran 07:30 Mr. Pip 20:00 Castle 02:25 Deadly Dilemmas 23:00 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 02:00 White Collar 21:00 Happy Endings 03:00 American Crime 09:30 Maladies 02:50 World’s Worst... 23:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 11:15 Metallica: Through The 21:30 Happy Endings 03:40 Auction Kings 08:00 Drop Dead Diva 22:00 The Simpsons 11:00 Royal Pains Never 04:05 Auction Hunters 13:00 The Butler 22:30 The Simpsons 04:30 Baggage Battles 12:00 Emmerdale 23:00 Lost 12:30 Coronation Street 15:15 Far And Away 05:00 Dallas Car Sharks 17:45 Maladies 05:30 How Do They Do It? 13:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 14:00 Drop Dead Diva 19:30 Safe Haven 06:00 Ice Cold Gold 00:10 The Chase 21:30 Till Human Voices Wake Us 06:50 World’s Top 5 01:05 Who’s Doing The Dishes? 16:00 Emmerdale 16:30 Coronation Street 23:30 We Gotta Get Out Of This 00:00 Down East Dickering 07:40 Misfit Garage 02:00 Emmerdale Place 01:00 Swamp People 08:30 Auction Kings 02:25 Come Dine With Me Ireland 17:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 18:00 Drop Dead Diva 02:00 Mountain Men 08:55 Auction Hunters 02:55 Coronation Street 03:00 Wwi: The First Modern War 09:20 Baggage Battles 03:25 Agatha Christie’s Poirot 19:00 Parenthood 20:00 Covert Affairs 04:00 Ax Men 09:45 Dallas Car Sharks 05:15 Murdoch Mysteries 05:00 American Pickers 10:10 How Do They Do It? 06:10 Who’s Doing The Dishes? 22:00 Empire 00:45 Divergent-PG15 06:00 American Restoration 10:35 Man vs Expert 07:05 Coronation Street 23:00 Mistresses 03:00 The Other Woman-PG15 06:30 American Restoration 11:25 Deadly Dilemmas 07:30 Agatha Christie’s Poirot 05:00 Good Deeds-PG15 07:00 Ice Road Truckers 11:50 Deadly Dilemmas 09:20 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 07:00 Maleficent-PG 08:00 Swamp People 12:15 World’s Worst... 10:15 Come Dine With Me Ireland 09:00 Big Hero 6-PG 09:00 Shipping Wars 13:05 Auction Kings 10:40 The Chase 10:45 Divergent-PG15 09:30 Shipping Wars 13:30 Auction Hunters 11:35 Who’s Doing The Dishes? 13:00 Bad Parents-PG15 10:00 American Restoration 13:55 Baggage Battles 12:30 Murdoch Mysteries 14:45 Alexander And The Terrible... 10:30 American Restoration 14:20 Ice Cold Gold 13:25 Emmerdale 00:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show Very Bad Day-PG 11:00 Counting Cars 15:10 World’s Top 5 13:50 Emmerdale 01:00 Good Morning America 16:15 Big Hero 6-PG 11:30 Counting Cars 16:00 Misfit Garage 14:15 Coronation Street 03:00 Better Call Saul 18:15 Transformers: Age Of 12:00 American Pickers 16:50 Dallas Car Sharks 14:40 The Chase 04:00 House Of Cards Extinction-PG15 13:00 Storage Wars 17:15 How Do They Do It? 15:35 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 05:00 Good Morning America 21:00 Godzilla-PG15 13:30 Storage Wars 17:40 Treehouse Masters 16:30 How To Find Love Online 07:00 Emmerdale 23:15 Edge Of Tomorrow-PG15 14:00 Pawn Stars 18:30 Flip Men 17:25 How To Find Love Online 07:30 Coronation Street 08:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 14:30 Pawn Stars 18:55 Property Wars 18:20 Murdoch Mysteries 15:00 Shipping Wars 19:20 Survive That! 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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015

Kuwait KNCC PROGRAMME FROM THURSDAY TO TUESDAY

SHARQIA-1 EVEREST 10:15 PM EVEREST -3D 6:15 PM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 4:15 PM WIPLALA 1:15 PM EVEREST 12:45 AM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 9:00 PM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 7:00 PM WIPLALA 3:30 PM EVEREST 11:45 PM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 9:45 PM WIPLALA 5:45 PM FANAR-5 MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 12:30 AM WIPLALA 8:00 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 1:00 PM AVENUES-7 NOM AL TALAT 10:15 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 3:45 PM MINIONS 11:30 AM AL-KOUT.2 WIPLALA 12:30 AM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 6:45 PM NO ESCAPE 1:30 PM EVEREST 12:15 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 9:30 PM THE PERFECT GUY 3:45 PM EVEREST 2:45 PM SHARQIA-2 MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 12:15 AM NO ESCAPE 6:00 PM EVEREST 5:15 PM MINIONS 11:30 AM THE PERFECT GUY 8:15 PM EVEREST 7:45 PM EVEREST 1:30 PM MARINA-1 NO ESCAPE 10:30 PM EVEREST 10:15 PM EVEREST 4:00 PM NOM AL TALAT 11:30 AM EVEREST 12:45 AM EVEREST 2:45 AM MATRIMONIAL MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 6:45 PM WIPLALA 1:30 PM EVEREST 9:30 PM WIPLALA 3:45 PM AVENUES-8 AL-KOUT.3 Parents inviting proposals EVEREST 12:05 AM WIPLALA 6:00 PM PAWN SACRIFICE 1:00 PM ZERO TOLERANCE 12:45 PM NOM AL TALAT 8:15 PM PAWN SACRIFICE 3:30 PM ZERO TOLERANCE 2:45 PM for Marthomite girl. 5.4” 26 SHARQIA-3 WIPLALA 10:30 PM PAWN SACRIFICE 6:00 PM ZERO TOLERANCE 4:45 PM years, BSc nurse, from a rep- THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 11:30 AM WIPLALA 12:45 AM PAWN SACRIFICE 8:30 PM THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 6:45 PM utable family in Central MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 1:30 PM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 11:00 PM NOM AL TALAT 8:45 PM Travancore, working in MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 4:15 PM MARINA-2 ZERO TOLERANCE 11:00 PM BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN -Hindi 7:00 PM EVEREST 11:30 AM AVENUES-9 ZERO TOLERANCE 1:00 AM MOH Kuwait from parents MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 10:00 PM EVEREST 2:00 PM WIPLALA 11:30 AM of professionally qualified MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 12:45 AM EVEREST 4:30 PM WIPLALA 1:45 PM AL-KOUT.4 EVEREST 7:00 PM WIPLALA 4:00 PM and employed Marthomite WIPLALA 12:30 PM MUHALAB-1 EVEREST 9:30 PM WIPLALA 6:15 PM boys from Kuwait. Contact: WIPLALA 2:45 PM EVEREST 11:30 AM EVEREST 12:05 AM WIPLALA 8:30 PM WIPLALA 5:00 PM [email protected] EVEREST 2:00 PM WIPLALA 10:45 PM (C 5038) KATTI BATTI - Hindi 4:30 PM MARINA-3 WIPLALA 1:00 AM WIPLALA 7:15 PM EVEREST 7:30 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 11:30 AM WIPLALA 9:30 PM 19-9-2015 EVEREST 10:00 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 2:15 PM AVENUES-10 WIPLALA 11:45 PM EVEREST 12:30 AM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 5:00 PM BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN -Hindi 12:00 PM THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 7:45 PM KATTI BATTI - Hindi 3:00 PM BAIRAQ-1 MUHALAB-2 MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 9:45 PM BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN -Hindi 6:00 PM EVEREST 11:45 AM LOST WIPLALA 1:15 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 12:30 AM KATTI BATTI - Hindi 9:00 PM EVEREST 2:15 PM WIPLALA 3:30 PM BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN -Hindi 12:05 AM EVEREST -3D 4:45 PM Name: Sana Amjad, Roll No. WIPLALA 6:00 PM AVENUES-1 EVEREST 7:15 PM NOM AL TALAT 8:15 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 11:30 AM AVENUES-11 EVEREST 9:45 PM 9103978. Lost certificates WIPLALA 10:30 PM NOM AL TALAT 2:30 PM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS -DOLBY ATMOS EVEREST 12:15 AM Class 10th & 12th Std. CBSE WIPLALA 12:45 AM NOM AL TALAT 4:45 PM 12:45 PM (India). Please call Amjad NOM AL TALAT 7:00 PM EVEREST -DOLBY ATMOS 3:45 PM BAIRAQ-2 Chohan, Mob: 66472691, MUHALAB-3 NOM AL TALAT 9:15 PM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS -DOLBY ATMOS WIPLALA 1:00 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 1:00 PM NOM AL TALAT 11:30 PM 6:45 PM WIPLALA 3:15 PM Res. 24335623. (C 5039) MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 3:45 PM EVEREST -DOLBY ATMOS 9:45 PM WIPLALA 5:45 PM 19-9-2015 MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 6:30 PM AVENUES-2 MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS -DOLBY ATMOS NOM AL TALAT 8:00 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 9:15 PM ZERO TOLERANCE 12:45 PM 12:45 AM WIPLALA 10:15 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 12:05 AM ZERO TOLERANCE 3:00 PM WIPLALA 12:30 AM Automated enquiry ZERO TOLERANCE 5:15 PM 360º- 1 about the Civil ID card is FANAR-1 ZERO TOLERANCE 7:30 PM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 11:45 AM BAIRAQ-3 NOM AL TALAT 11:30 AM ZERO TOLERANCE 9:45 PM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 2:45 PM AZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 12:45 PM NOM AL TALAT 1:45 PM ZERO TOLERANCE 12:05 AM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 5:45 PM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 3:30 PM 1889988 NOM AL TALAT 4:00 PM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 8:45 PM BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN -Hindi 6:15 PM NO ESCAPE 6:15 PM AVENUES-3 NO FRI MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 9:15 PM NOM AL TALAT 8:30 PM THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 11:30 AM Special Show “MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS” MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 12:05 AM NOM AL TALAT 10:45 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 1:45 PM 8:30 PM NO ESCAPE 1:00 AM HITMAN: AGENT 47 4:30 PM FRI PLAZA THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 6:45 PM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 11:45 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 4:30 PM 112 FANAR-2 THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 9:00 PM EVEREST 7:30 PM WIPLALA 12:45 PM THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 11:15 PM 360º 2 MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 10:00 PM WIPLALA 3:00 PM THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 1:00 PM Prayer timings WIPLALA 5:15 PM AVENUES-4 THE PERFECT GUY 3:15 PM LAILA WIPLALA 7:30 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 11:45 AM THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 5:30 PM WIPLALA 3:30 PM WIPLALA 9:45 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 2:45 PM THE PERFECT GUY 7:45 PM EVEREST 5:30 PM WIPLALA 12:05 AM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 5:45 PM THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 10:00 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 8:00 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 8:45 PM THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 12:15 AM EVEREST 10:45 PM FANAR-3 MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 11:45 PM BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN -Hindi 1:00 PM 360º- 3 BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN -Hindi 4:15 PM AVENUES-5 PAWN SACRIFICE 11:45 AM AJIAL.1 THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 7:15 PM EVEREST 11:30 AM PAWN SACRIFICE 2:00 PM UTOPIAYILE RAJAVU -Malayalam 3:30 PM BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN -Hindi 9:15 PM EVEREST -3D 2:15 PM PAWN SACRIFICE 4:30 PM UTOPIAYILE RAJAVU -Malayalam 6:15 PM Fajr: 04:16 THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 12:30 AM EVEREST 5:30 PM PAWN SACRIFICE 7:00 PM UTOPIAYILE RAJAVU -Malayalam 9:00 PM BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN -Hindi 8:15 PM PAWN SACRIFICE 9:30 PM Shorook 05:36 FANAR-4 Special Show “NOM AL TALAT” 9:00 PM PAWN SACRIFICE 12:05 AM AJIAL.2 Duhr: 11:41 EVEREST 12:00 PM EVEREST 11:15 PM EVEREST 4:45 PM EVEREST 2:30 PM AVENUES-6 AL-KOUT.1 BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN -Hindi 7:15 PM Asr: 15:09 EVEREST -3D 5:00 PM EVEREST -3D 12:30 PM THE TRANSPORTER REFUELED 11:30 AM EVEREST 10:15 PM Maghrib: 17:46 EVEREST 7:45 PM MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS 3:30 PM MAZE RUNNER: HE SCORCH TRIALS 1:30 PM Isha: 19:16

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

Arrival Flights on Thursday 24/9/2015 MSC 411 Asyut 12:55 Departure Flights on Thursday 24/9/2015 NIA 152 Cairo 13:35 Airlines Flt Route Time MSR 610 Cairo 13:00 Airlines Flt Route Time MSC 412 Asyut 13:55 KAC 564 Amman 00:05 THY 766 Istanbul 13:10 AIC 976 Goa/Chennai 00:05 MSR 611 Cairo 14:00 THY 772 Istanbul 00:15 KAC 672 Dubai 13:55 RBG 556 Alexandria 00:05 THY 767 Istanbul 14:10 JZR 239 Amman 00:20 QTR 1078 Doha 14:05 BBC 044 Dhaka 00:10 UAE 872 Dubai 14:15 JZR 267 Beirut 00:30 AXB 393 Kozhikode 14:15 JAI 573 Mumbai 00:25 QTR 1079 Doha 15:05 DLH 637 Dammam 00:35 GFA 221 Bahrain 14:20 FDB 072 Dubai 00:30 FDB 058 Dubai 15:05 FDB 069 Dubai 00:55 FDB 057 Dubai 14:20 KLM 411 Amsterdam 00:55 GFA 222 Bahrain 15:05 JZR 539 Cairo 01:30 JZR 257 Beirut 14:55 JZR 502 Luxor 01:10 KAC 617 Doha 15:15 SAI 441 Lahore 01:35 KAC 538 Sohag 14:55 KAC 177 Vienna 01:20 AXB 394 Kozhikode 15:15 PGT 858 Istanbul 01:40 RJD 135 Abu Dhabi 15:00 DLH 637 Frankfurt 01:35 KAC 673 Dubai 15:20 RJA 642 Amman 01:45 OMA 645 Muscat 15:05 THY 773 Istanbul 02:05 JZR 188 Dubai 15:50 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 01:50 ABY 127 Sharjah 15:35 SAI 442 Lahore 02:35 KAC 741 Dammam 15:55 OMA 643 Muscat 02:05 UAE 857 Dubai 15:45 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 02:50 KAC 773 Riyadh 15:55 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:15 NIA 251 Alexandria 15:50 PGT 859 Istanbul 02:55 KAC 613 Bahrain 16:00 KKK 6507 Istanbul 02:15 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 16:00 KKK 6508 Istanbul 03:10 OMA 646 Muscat 16:05 UAE 853 Dubai 02:25 JZR 535 Cairo 16:05 MSC 404 Sohag 03:30 RJD 136 Abu Dhabi 16:10 MSC 403 Sohag 02:30 FDB 051 Dubai 16:10 OMA 644 Muscat 03:35 ABY 128 Sharjah 16:15 QTR 1076 Doha 02:55 QTR 1072 Doha 16:20 UAE 854 Dubai 03:45 ETD 304 Abu Dhabi 16:45 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 03:05 JZR 125 Bahrain 16:25 RJA 645 Amman 03:55 NIA 252 Alexandria 16:50 RJA 644 Amman 03:10 KAC 118 New York 16:30 FDB 068 Dubai 04:00 RJA 641 Amman 16:55 FDB 067 Dubai 03:15 KAC 178 Vienna 16:55 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:05 JZR 266 Beirut 17:05 MSR 612 Cairo 03:15 KAC 562 Amman 17:00 MSR 613 Cairo 04:15 FDB 052 Dubai 17:10 KAC 1544 Cairo 03:35 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:15 PGT 861 Istanbul 04:45 JZR 512 Sharm el-Sheikh 17:15 PGT 860 Istanbul 03:45 UAL 982 IAD 17:25 THY 765 Istanbul 04:55 QTR 1073 Doha 17:25 THY 1464 Istanbul 03:55 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 JZR 560 Sohag 05:00 UAE 858 Dubai 17:40 MSC 401 Alexandria 04:00 JZR 177 Dubai 17:45 MSC 406 Sohag 05:00 SVA 511 Riyadh 18:15 JZR 555 Alexandria 04:15 JZR 777 Jeddah 17:50 QTR 1077 Doha 05:05 GFA 216 Bahrain 18:20 JZR 1543 Cairo 04:35 KAC 678 Muscat/Abu Dhabi 17:55 THY 1465 Istanbul 05:55 JZR 184 Dubai 18:20 THY 770 Istanbul 04:40 FDB 065 Dubai 18:05 RJA 643 Amman 06:35 KAC 563 Amman 18:30 THY 5580 TZX 05:05 JZR 483 Istanbul 18:20 GFA 212 Bahrain 06:50 JZR 156 Dubai 18:35 DHX 170 Bahrain 05:10 KAC 176 Geneva/Frankfurt 18:20 THY 771 Istanbul 06:50 UAL 982 Bahrain 18:40 MSC 409 Asyut 05:55 KAC 502 Beirut 18:35 MSC 410 Asyut 06:55 JZR 538 Cairo 18:40 JZR 529 Asyut 06:00 KAC 786 Jeddah 18:35 JZR 240 Amman 07:05 FDB 066 Dubai 18:55 QTR 8301 Doha 06:00 KAC 618 Doha 18:55 FDB 070 Dubai 07:05 JZR 238 Amman 19:15 KAC 412 Manila/Bangkok 06:15 KAC 542 Cairo 18:55 JZR 164 Dubai 07:15 GFA 218 Bahrain 19:50 BAW 157 London 06:35 QTR 1080 Doha 18:55 JZR 256 Beirut 07:30 FDB 064 Dubai 19:50 JZR 1541 Cairo 06:40 KAC 742 Dammam 19:00 QTR 8302 Doha 07:30 QTR 1081 Doha 19:55 OMA 641 Muscat 06:50 KAC 104 London 19:00 KAC 173 Munich 07:45 ABY 124 Sharjah 20:00 JZR 503 Luxor 07:20 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:05 OMA 642 Muscat 07:50 KAC 361 Colombo 20:00 IRA 673 Ahwaz 07:30 UAE 875 Dubai 19:05 KAC 537 Sohag 08:20 UAE 876 Dubai 20:35 KAC 382 Delhi 07:30 FDB 063 Dubai 19:10 BAW 156 London 08:30 JAI 571 Mumbai 20:35 KAC 206 Islamabad 07:45 KAC 614 Bahrain 19:10 IRA 672 Ahwaz 08:30 FDB 062 Dubai 20:35 FDB 053 Dubai 07:50 ABY 123 Sharjah 19:20 FDB 054 Dubai 08:30 KAC 287 Dhaka 20:40 SVA 512 Riyadh 07:50 JAI 572 Mumbai 19:35 SVA 513 Riyadh 08:50 KAC 204 Lahore 07:50 KAC 774 Riyadh 19:40 QTR 1087 Doha 08:55 AGY 681 Alexandria 20:50 KAC 302 Mumbai 07:55 FDB 061 Dubai 19:50 JZR 534 Cairo 09:15 KAC 1543 Cairo 20:55 QTR 1086 Doha 07:55 AGY 684 Sohag 19:50 KAC 671 Dubai 09:25 KAC 343 Chennai 20:55 KAC 346 Ahmedabad 08:00 KAC 674 Dubai 20:00 JZR 482 Istanbul 09:45 OMA 648 Muscat 21:00 KAC 154 Istanbul 08:10 OMA 647 Muscat 20:00 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:45 ABY 122 Sharjah 21:00 KAC 352 Kochi 08:15 KNE 460 Riyadh 20:10 UAE 856 Dubai 09:50 KAC 331 Trivandrum 21:00 UAE 855 Dubai 08:25 MEA 402 Beirut 20:15 KAC 101 London/New York 10:00 KAC 351 Kochi 21:05 KAC 332 Trivandrum 08:30 ABY 121 Sharjah 20:20 IRA 668 Mashhad 10:00 KNE 481 Riyadh 21:10 KAC 362 Colombo 08:30 DLH 634 Frankfurt 20:20 ETD 302 Abu Dhabi 10:00 MEA 403 Beirut 21:15 IRA 667 Esfahan 09:00 JZR 189 Dubai 20:25 RJA 649 Amman 10:15 JZR 554 Alexandria 21:15 KAC 284 Dhaka 09:00 MSR 618 Alexandria 20:40 IZG 4162 Mashhad 10:30 MSR 619 Alexandria 21:40 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:05 KAC 174 Munich 20:55 QTR 1071 Doha 10:40 DHX 171 Bahrain 21:50 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 09:10 ALK 229 Colombo 21:10 FDB 056 Dubai 10:40 ETD 308 Abu Dhabi 22:05 QTR 1070 Doha 09:25 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:15 KAC 677 Abu Dhabi/Muscat 10:50 FDB 074 Dubai 22:10 RJA 648 Amman 09:30 UAE 859 Dubai 21:15 KAC 501 Beirut 11:00 ALK 230 Colombo 22:20 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 KLM 417 Amsterdam 21:25 SYR 342 Damascus 11:05 KAC 381 Delhi 22:20 KAC 350 Kochi 09:40 FDB 073 Dubai 21:30 KAC 165 Rome/Paris 11:25 UAE 860 Dubai 22:25 SYR 341 Damascus 10:05 QTR 1074 Doha 21:30 KAC 561 Amman 11:25 KLM 417 Dammam/Amsterdam 22:25 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:45 GFA 214 Bahrain 11:35 KAC 349 Kochi 22:30 UAE 873 Dubai 10:40 THY 764 Istanbul 22:10 MEA 405 Beirut 11:55 KAC 301 Mumbai 22:30 MEA 404 Beirut 10:55 ETD 309 Abu Dhabi 22:10 KAC 541 Cairo 12:05 QTR 1075 Doha 22:40 MSC 405 Sohag 11:20 AIC 981 Chennai/Ahmedabad 22:25 UAE 874 Dubai 12:10 GFA 220 Bahrain 22:45 JZR 561 Sohag 11:25 UAL 981 Bahrain 22:40 RBG 554 Alexandria 12:10 ETD 310 Abu Dhabi 23:00 RBG 553 Alexandria 11:30 FDB 059 Dubai 22:50 JZR 776 Jeddah 12:15 THY 5583 ADB 23:00 AGY 680 Alexandria 11:40 JZR 157 Dubai 22:55 MSC 402 Alexandria 12:20 KAC 153 Istanbul 23:00 JZR 165 Dubai 11:50 JZR 185 Dubai 23:00 AGY 685 Sohag 12:40 KAC 205 Islamabad 23:05 FDB 075 Dubai 12:25 JAI 574 Mumbai 23:20 KAC 785 Jeddah 13:00 KAC 411 Bangkok/Manila 23:25 NIA 151 Cairo 12:35 JZR 513 Sharm el-Sheikh 23:30 JZR 176 Dubai 13:10 FDB 060 Dubai 23:50 JZR 241 Amman 12:40 MSR 614 Cairo 23:30 FDB 076 Dubai 13:10 KAC 415 Kuala Lumpur/Jakarta 23:50 UAE 871 Dubai 12:45 FDB 071 Dubai 23:35 JZR 124 Bahrain 13:30 JZR 1540 Cairo 23:50 DIAL161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION stars34 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 CROSSWORD 1032 STAR TRACK

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

Although you can be quite generous in spirit when you so Your mental clarity is razor sharp now as the brilliant Sun sets up shop choose, you’re an independent Ram and there are times when you simply in your creative sign. You’re capable of making intelligent decisions that are based forget about the needs of others. But partnerships require more bandwidth upon your keen sense of objectivity. However, your thinking is likely to change once the Sun takes up residence in your 7th House of Relationships today. again with retrograde Mercury also camping out in Libra. Fortunately, sentimental- Stop chasing your dreams long enough to consciously consider what ity won’t likely lead you off course today. Accept subjective artistic leanings as someone else wants. Demonstrating respect to those around you shifts the lovely inspirations brightening your day; incorporate what you can and leave the energy and enables things to run much smoother than you ever expected. rest for another time. Life is meant to be shared.

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

You might not be aware of how much others look up to you Although this may not be what you want to hear today, there’s no now, yet even little things you do strongly influence them. However, you reason to waste your precious energy and limited resources on starting any- could be less concerned with anyone else’s perceptions than you are with thing new now. The radiant Sun’s shift into your 12th House of Endings is a completing your chores today. It’s tempting to narrow your vision to con- powerful reminder to complete current projects and tie up as many loose ends centrate on maintaining your regular routine while the Sun inhabits your as possible. Keeping a low profile allows you to focus on the more spiritual 6th House of Habits. But don’t let your current obsession with the details aspects of your life. There are many treasures to discover in other dimensions if get in the way of being fully present for your friends and family. Honor you are willing to suspend your disbelief and let your imagination wander. your core values and everything will work out for the best.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) Your friends and associates may be nearly impossible to read today, You’re not in a very practical mood today, so it’s wise to enjoy your col- leaving you uncertain about where they fit in your current plans. Unfortunately, orful fantasies without trying to manifest them into reality. Luckily, there’s nothing your ideas might not be as clear as you think, creating problems you haven’t even ACROSS DOWN wrong with escaping into your daydreams for a little while; this harmless reverie can considered. But don’t blame your lack of confidence on anyone else or you will 1. Uttering in an irritated tone. 1. Apartment consisting of a series of even provide inspirational food for thought. Just make sure you remain aware of the connected rooms used as a living unit just drift further away from your goals. Accepting responsibility for your actions 5. A strong north wind that blows in difference between the idle wanderings of your imagination and what’s actually (as in a hotel). now inspires you to take matters into your own hands. Mahatma Gandhi advised, France during the winter. expected of you in the real world. Don’t miss your chance to dance on the creative 2. Made of wood of the aspen tree n. “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” 12. The bill in a restaurant. edge while the Sun is shining in your 5th House of Self-Expression. 15. A law passed by US Congress to pre- 3. A sedimentary rock formed by the vent employees from being injured or deposition of successive layers of clay. contracting diseases in the course of 4. Shah of Iran who was deposed in 1979 their employment. by Islamic fundamentalists (1919-1980). 16. Any of various Old World herbs of the 5. A flat-bottomed volcanic crater that Cancer (June 21-July 22) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) genus Anchusa having one-sided clus- was formed by an explosion. All you can think about now is your career as you ambitiously plan for ters of trumpet-shaped flowers. 6. The Palestinian uprising (beginning in Nothing brings you more pleasure now than hanging out in your castle 1987) against the Israeli occupation of your future. Fortunately, your professional objectives may be clearly illuminated 17. Title for a civil or military leader with those you love. The Sun’s current visit to your 4th House of Roots turns your the West Bank and Gaza Strip. during the weeks ahead as the Sun travels through your 10th House of Public (especially in Turkey). attention inward and sets a nostalgic tone. Ironically, you might even consider travel- 7. Of or relating to a directionless magni- Responsibility. However, your preoccupation with work can strain your personal 18. Large elliptical brightly colored deep- ing — in the real world or in your imagination — all the way back to the place of your tude. life as fulfilling your obligations distracts you from cultivating emotional connec- sea fish of Atlantic and Pacific and origins. However, this isn’t just a walk down memory lane; engaging in serious self- 8. Psychoactive substance present in tions. Establishing a healthy balance in your life is more important than reaching Mediterranean. reflection strengthens your foundation for the months ahead. Learning something marijuana. some imagined pinnacle of success. Humans can not live on bread alone. 19. Lacking motor coordination. 9. A groove or furrow (especially one in meaningful about your past inspires you to be more successful in the future. 20. An undergarment worn by women to soft earth caused by wheels). support their breasts. 10. The largest continent with 60% of 21. A tranquilizer (trade name Mellaril) the earth's population. Leo (July 23-August 22) Aquarius (January 20- February 18) used to treat schizophrenia and other 11. Closed with a lace. psychotic disorders. 12. A sock with a separation for the big Your calendar is filling up quickly and life seems to be running at a You are strongly drawn in two distinct directions now as the Sun 23. Of or belonging to an aecium. toe. faster pace now that the Sun is lighting up your 3rd House of Immediate brightens fellow air sign Libra. Additionally, the Moon’s return to your futuristic 25. Marked by quiet and caution and 13. A city in northern India. Environment. But complications arise if you can’t manage your time effectively sign adds an emotional twist to an intellectual problem today. Still, your primary secrecy. 14. Any of numerous local fertility and because your tight schedule is quite unforgiving today. Don’t get flustered if you fall challenge is to remain optimistic without losing touch with reality. Deepening a 26. King of Saudi Arabia since 1982 (born nature deities worshipped by ancient behind or miss a step; just be honest with everyone affected and continue to do the close connection with someone you trust inspires you to keep your dreams alive. in 1922). Semitic peoples. best you can to be in several places at once. Your heroic efforts are appreciated Author and activist Helen Keller declared, “Walking with a friend in the dark is bet- 22. A state in northwestern North 29. An official prosecutor for a judicial more than you know. ter than walking alone in the light.” district. America. 30. Of or relating to or involving an area. 24. Any of several plants of the genus 32. A doctor's degree in music. Camassia. 27. (slang) The act of stealing. 36. Trade name for a drug containing an Virgo (August 23-September 22) Pisces (February 19-March 20) antihistamine and a decongestant. 28. Indigo bush. 31. United States actor (born in Hungary) 39. The United Nations agency con- Your ambivalence over a fundamental issue can make a particular You may be uncomfortable with the information imbalance today if cerned with the interests of labor. noted for playing sinister roles (1904- 1964). decision rather difficult. Unfortunately, a new wave of confusion may sour your someone shares too many personal details and you don’t say anything in return. No 40. (prefix) In front of or before in space. 33. (used of grass or vegetation) "uncut actions with doubt and uncertainty as the Sun slips into your 2nd House of matter how pressing the situation seems now, there’s a part of you that doesn’t 41. The sound made by a cow or bull. grass". Values. Thankfully, there’s no need to change your mind or alter your plans want to deal with the drama. Although you might actually believe that whatever 42. Typical geese. 34. Having or revealing little emotion or today, especially if you’re unsure of your options. Hang tight; your confidence you don’t know can’t hurt you, it’s simply not the case. Even unexpressed thoughts 43. Air pollution by a mixture of smoke sensibility. will rebound before you know it. In the meantime, sorting through all of your create ripples in the atmosphere, so it’s smarter to ask questions and listen to the and fog. 35. Free and relaxed in manner. alternatives now gives you the best chance to make the right choice at the rest of the story when someone asks for your advice. The only way to have a friend is 44. Small genus of evergreen trees of 37. Any of several small ungulate mam- right moment. to be one. tropical America and western Africa. mals of Africa and Asia with rodent-like 48. A mountain lake (especially one incisors and feet with hooflike toes. WORD SEARCH PUZZLE formed by glaciers). 38. Scottish chemist noted for his Yesterday’s Solution 50. Leaf or strip from a leaf of the talipot research into the structure of nucleic palm used in India for writing paper. acids (born in 1907). 51. A colloidal gel in which water is the 45. Of or containing iridium. dispersion medium. 46. A large family of dicotyledonous 54. King of England who was renounced plants of order Rosales. by Northumbria in favor of his brother 47. Lacking gonads. Edgar (died in 959). 49. A person with the same name as 56. Place or set apart. another. 59. A group of African languages in the 52. Angular distance above the horizon Niger-Congo group spoken from (especially of a celestial object). Senegal east as far as the Ivory Coast. 53. A local computer network for com- 60. A port city in southwestern Iran. munication between computers. 63. Norwegian explorer of the Arctic and 55. (Irish) Mother of the Tuatha De director of the League of Nations relief Danann. program for refugees of World War I 57. A hard gray lustrous metallic element that is highly corrosion-resistant. (1861-1930). 58. The cardinal number that is the sum 65. A tricycle (usually propelled by ped- of eight and one. alling). 61. Be in contradiction with. 66. Proboscis monkeys. 62. A city in southern Turkey on the 70. Situated in a particular spot or posi- Seyhan River. tion. 64. A native-born Israeli. 73. A sweetened beverage of diluted 67. A Tibetan or Mongolian priest of fruit juice. Lamaism. 74. Belonging to or on behalf of a speci- 68. The content of cognition. fied person (especially yourself). 69. A strong-smelling plant from whose 75. Nocturnal burrowing mammal of the dried leaves a number of euphoriant and grasslands of Africa that feeds on ter- hallucinogenic drugs are prepared. mites. 71. Measure of the US economy adopted 77. The force of workers available. in 1991. 78. A unit of length of thread or yarn. 72. Being six more than fifty. 79. Tarpons and ladyfishes. 76. An artificial language for internation- 80. An associate degree in applied sci- al use that rejects rejects all existing ence. words and is based instead on an abstract analysis of ideas. Yesterday’s Solution

Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 information

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Brazilian film about a maid in a wealthy home is not only mak- Bitter sweet how long it will be before the country’s long-suffering maids follow ing waves as Brazil’s Oscars entry, but stirring painful debate There are just over six million domestic workers in Brazil, accord- fictional Val out the door. “It’s already over,” said Francisca Ciambarelli, Aover inequality and racism in a country in crisis. “Que Horas Ela ing to government figures. By comparison, UN and labor union esti- who was among the well-heeled crowd watching “Que Horas Ela Volta?”, released in English as “The Second Mother,” is a long way from mates show the United States, with a population a third bigger than Volta?” in Rio’s swanky Leblon neighborhood. the violence-filled depictions of drug gangs, like “City of God,” that for- Brazil’s, has only 1.8 to 2.6 million domestic workers. The European Ciambarelli, a 45-year-old economist, said she has a devoted live- eigners have come to expect from Brazil. But director Anna Muylaert’s Union, with more than double Brazil’s population, has an estimated in maid, but that the system is on its last legs. “People don’t want to outwardly quiet movie has hit a raw spot in using a live-in maid’s story 2.5 million such workers, according to the International Labor live like that anymore.” Just like in the film, Ciambarelli’s maid has a to bare the hypocrisy behind the idyllic facade of the upper class Organization. Servants in Brazil-most of them black women-are so child in the process of getting a higher education and moving into household where she works. woven into the social fabric that architects design even middle-class another social class where working as a servant would be unthink- Released at a time when Brazil is reeling from economic decline, apartments with a designated bedroom for the live-in help. able. “The mother will not change. She will live in our house and die corruption and the crumbling of President Dilma Rousseff’s leftist These jobs can be a chance to escape extreme poverty in the out- there,” Ciambarelli said. “But the son, he is always trying to persuade agenda, the film whose title translates as “What Time Will She Come lying regions of the world’s seventh biggest economy. But to critics, her to leave.” Home?” challenges the biggest country in Latin America to examine its the domestic service industry also holds back society, reinforcing soul. The film “has all the chances of becoming a milestone in contem- racism and other legacies of slavery which flourished in Brazil right Old habits die hard porary Brazilian cinema, as ‘Central do Brasil’ and ‘City of God’ were in up to 1888 — two decades later than in the United States. Dos Dos Santos said eventually the new laws “will change a great deal” other contexts. It’s a film completely in sync with the pulse of the coun- Santos, who is 62 and started working at 10, said her experience has in Brazil. “We will end up like France where people are paid by the try,” critic and blogger Jose Geraldo Couto wrote. Actress Regina Case been bitter-sweet. hour and this working 24 hours a day will end.” But Brazil’s economic has won rave reviews at home and in Hollywood for her portrayal of “When you’re with a family that is educated and good, you benefit crisis may yet rewrite that script. The number of people in domestic Val, one of Brazil’s largely invisible army of domestic workers. Living in too-it’s like going to a school. It has a good side,” she said. But maids service fell steadily from around 2008, when the Workers’ Party wel- the tiny servant’s room of a luxurious Sao Paulo house, Val not only embedded in rich families, housed in “the very small room with no fare program was at its most effective. However, this year, with reces- feeds the family and cleans, but looks after the dog, garden, swimming window,” have constantly to remind themselves that the “beautiful sion eating away at economic opportunity, the numbers have started pool and all but raises the sweet, but spoiled son. house, the swimming pool, the sauna-that is not their reality,” she to climb again. Her employers say she’s “practically family.” But the film ruthlessly said. With salaries for live-in maids in the wealthy parts of Rio de shows how Val in reality is second class and will remain so until-inspired Janeiro reaching around $500 a month, even women from the new by her estranged daughter’s independence-she quits and starts a new ‘It’s over’ generation might think twice about rejecting the opportunity. The life of her own. For Carli Maria dos Santos, a veteran maid who is now Under Workers’ Party president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his really poor, meanwhile, are unlikely even to see “Que Horas Ela Volta?” president of the Rio de Janeiro Domestic Workers’ Union, that story of successor Rousseff, tens of millions of people have been lifted from Cinema tickets in Brazil typically cost between 30 and 40 reais social upheaval captures real trends. “I thought the film was very good, poverty in the last decade. And in 2013 constitutional changes finally (approximately $7 to $10). The minimum hourly wage is just 3.58 especially the end where the servant finally frees herself and goes off,” extended normal rights, like overtime and the minimum wage, to reais (90 cents). “That’s the reality. I saw the film because I was in a dos Santos said in an interview. “Things are changing.” domestic workers. Given those seismic shifts, some Brazilians wonder seminar,” dos Santos said. “Otherwise, I wouldn’t have gone.” —AFP Perez Hilton gets onstage again in ‘juicy’ part

elebrity blogger Perez Hilton is the creators, asking for a role. But not appropriate,” said co-creator Tobly taking his skills mocking the one you might expect. “He want- McSmith. Hilton, whose real name is Ccelebrities to the stage. He’s ed to be one of the Olsen twins, but Mario Lavandeira Jr., was a fan of starring in an unauthorized off- we talked him into Danny Tanner. We McSmith’s previous parodies of Broadway musical parody of the ‘90s thought it would be more age- “Saved by the Bell” and “Showgirls.” sitcom “Full House,” playing Danny In the new show, he plays both Tanner. “I’ve been doing what I do the squeaky-clean and fictional now for 11 years,” Hilton says, “So it’s Tanner in Act 1 and the foul- fun to challenge yourself and take mouthed real-life actor who played advantage of all the opportunities him, Bob Saget, in Act 2. (Hilton that present themselves.” Hilton relo- remembers watching the show cated to New York from Los Angeles (1987-1995), while growing up.) What in 2013, in part to reconnect with the he misses from the ‘90s is not having stage. Long before doodling on his a cellphone or being on social media, first celebrity photo, he graduated a strange admission from someone from New York University’s Tisch whose sites have kept us online: School of the Arts’ acting program. “While I enjoy social media, it’s just “Would I love to do Broadway? become another job.” The musical is Yes. Do I think it’s likely going to hap- on three nights a week at Theatre 80 pen in the immediate future? No,” he downtown, leaving Hilton plenty of said. “And if it doesn’t happen, I time for his “day job” and raising two wouldn’t be disappointed.” He started young boys. blogging in a coffee shop in He says fatherhood and being 37 George Strait announces four concert dates at the new Las Vegas Arena, scheduled to open in 2016, September 2004 and now has about has mellowed his style. “I’ve become during the “Strait to Vegas” press conference. —AP a dozen employees feeding five web- less snarky,” he said. He doesn’t sites, a radio show and a weekly pod- scrawl inappropriate things on pho- cast. Hilton, who starred in the 2012 tos anymore and has created off-Broadway revue “Newsical the Perezitos, a cleaned-up site for par- George Strait drops new album, Musical,” has been taking voice les- ents and children. His bite is still sons and is a fixture in the audience present, however. He recently went at most Broadway shows. “I see every through a three-week, Kardashian will play Las Vegas in 2016 musical. The plays? I have to be sure detox cleanse, refusing to talk about they’re good before I go to,” he said. reality TV’s favorite family. “It felt real- Perez Hilton attends the 2015 ountry music king George Strait wants to be clear. municate with his dad from the beyond. The Grammy When he heard - online, naturally - ly good. Now I’ve reintroduced them His upcoming four shows and likely more at MGM winner and repeat Country Music Association entertainer there was going to be a musical par- GLSEN Respect Awards in New into my diet, but in a more sensible CResort’s new Las Vegas Arena next year aren’t some of the year said he’s always looking for a good swing ody of “Full House,” he reached out to York. —AP fashion,” he said. —AP re-emergence from retirement. The 63-year-old may have tune and found one, writing the tongue-in-cheek, “It hung up his touring boots last year after four-decades and Takes All Kinds” with lyrics such as, “Some got a boat they his record-setting “Cowboy Rides Away” shows, but he’s like to float/ Some got a story they sugarcoat / some got hardly done singing or performing. “Some people that I a clue and then some don’t / it takes all kinds.” Strait said have told, that I’d be doing some dates in Vegas in 2016 at he traded lyrics in texts with his son and his song-writing Diddy tops rapper earnings list with $60 mln the Las Vegas Arena, they go ‘well you retired, I thought buddies. you retired.’ Ooh, I just wanna grab ‘em and shake ‘em. I “Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys were a big influence iddy is said to be working on a long-awaited album never said that,” he said Tuesday with a flash of his pearly on me,” he said. “At one point I thought I was going to do a but, even without his music, he was the top-earning white cowboy smile. big band record of standard songs like Sinatra-type songs, rapper of the past year. Releasing its annual list on Straight announced Tuesday that he would perform four and that’s still a possibility.” The Las Vegas Strip has been D Tuesday, Forbes said that Diddy-whose real name is Sean upcoming shows at the 20,000-seat arena - April 22-23 and many things to many people but has increasingly become Combs and whose stage names include Puff Daddy-took in Sept 9-10 - and release a new album, “Cold Beer a hub for country music fans whether seeing Reba $60 million from June 2014 to June 2015. His earnings Conversation,” available on iTunes and at Walmart stores McEntire and Brooks & Dunn at The Colosseum at Caesars come mostly through his business projects, especially his starting Friday. It’s an album with ballads and toe-tappers for Palace or seeing The Judds reunite at upcoming shows at venture selling French-made Ciroc liquor, the wealth maga- those “dudes and dudettes” reminiscing about high school The Venetian. “George retired from touring at the top of zine said. football games, family and life over a cold beer. His first his game,” said Gary Bongiovanni with concert industry Diddy rarely performs and last released an album, “Last choice for a cold beer chat? His father, John Byron Strait who tracking firm Pollstar. “He has a very loyal fan base that will Train to Paris,” in 2010. But Gizzle, an artist signed to his died in 2013 at 91. be delighted to hear the news they have a chance to see label, recently told the Rap-Up website that Diddy was him again.” working on a sequel to his debut 1997 work “No Way Out.” Good swing Strait has been no stranger to Vegas and its many casi- “No Way Out 2” would be the final album from Diddy, It was Strait’s wanting to talk with his dad that led him no venues. “The crowds are great and they come from all Gizzle said. Another rapper turned mogul, Jay Z, was close to write “Everything I See” with his son Bubba. “I wish I over the place,” he said. When the Las Vegas Arena opens behind at number two by raking in an estimated $56 mil- would have stuck a phone in his shirt, as ridiculous as in April, Strait will be among the first to play the new $375 lion, Forbes said. Jay Z put on a series of sold-out arena that may sound,” he said of the death of his father, as he million venue being built by MGM Resorts and AEG. shows with his wife Beyonce and has earned money pondered the information cloud and being able to com- Tickets will cost $75-$200 and go on sale Oct 20. —AP through assets such as Armand de Brignac, a champagne that he bought last year. Canadian rapper and Apple collaborator Drake came in third at $39.5 million, with Forbes estimating that he Bowie pens music for earned $1 million per show. Drake is the only artist to go platinum in the United States, or sell more than one million copies, with an album released this year-the mixtape “If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late.” Drake released a new mix- European crime thriller tape, “What a Time To Be Alive,” with fellow rapper Future late Sunday, with Billboard magazine expecting the work to top the latest album chart. avid Bowie has written a song “Sweet and Lowdown” to “Control,” a around the Pink Panthers, criminal Photo shows musician Sean Combs in Beverly In 2013-14, Forbes said that Dr Dre topped the list-and Hills, California. —AFP for an upcoming French-British biopic on late Joy Division singer Ian elements from the Balkans-ironically set the record for an entertainer of any genre in a year-by Dcrime series, in the rock icon’s Curtis. The television series revolves nicknamed after crime comedy films- earning $620 million. Dr Dre had sold Beats, the company earnings. Dr Dre last month released “Compton,” which he first foray into television music in two who pulled off major heists starting in he co-founded that is best-known for headphones, to has described as his final album, to accompany the block- decades. Bowie in a statement the 1990s. Apple, where he has taken on a corporate role. Forbes esti- buster film “Straight Outta Compton” about his former Tuesday said that he had written an The music will be Bowie’s first for a mated that he came fourth in 2014-15 with $33 million in band N.W.A. —AFP original song for “The Last Panthers,” a television series since 1993 when he six-part thriller on Balkan jewel recorded a soundtrack for a BBC serial thieves that debuts in November. “I based on Hanif Kureishi’s novel “The was looking for one of the icons of my Buddha of Suburbia.” A pioneer of Sean Penn files $10 million suit youth to write the music for the title glam rock, Bowie has long pursued sequence, but was presented with a interests in art and theater and, at age against ‘Empire’ co-creator God,” director Johan Renck, a Swede 68, has recently announced a series of ean Penn on Tuesday filed a $10 mil- now in America.” Penn’s lawsuit, filed in tion with fisticuffs and spitting. He beat a best known for his music videos, said new projects. Bowie is writing for a lion defamation lawsuit against Manhattan civil court, says Daniels’ state- man he thought was trying to kiss Madonna in the statement. “The piece of music musical based on cartoon character “Empire” co-creator Lee Daniels over ments were egregious and injured Penn’s in a nightclub, and he admitted driving reck- he laid before us embodied every SpongeBob. He also penned the S comments Daniels made comparing him to credibility and reputation personally, profes- lessly and punching an extra on the set of aspect of our characters and the series music for “Lazarus,” a play that pre- the show’s star Terrence Howard, who’s been sionally and in his philanthropic activities. the movie “Colors.” His attorney Mathew itself-dark, brooding, beautiful and mieres in New York in November that repeatedly accused of domestic violence. Penn has won two best actor Oscars, for Rosengart said the lawsuit isn’t just about sentimental (in the best possible is inspired by the science fiction novel Daniels’ comments appeared online about a “Mystic River” and “Milk.” He has made a Daniels’ comments. “Sean has been the sub- incarnation of this word),” he said. “The Man Who Fell to Earth.” Bowie week ago in the entertainment publication major humanitarian push in Haiti after it was ject of numerous baseless attacks over the A collaboration between Britain’s starred in a 1976 film version of “The The Hollywood Reporter in a story about the devastated by an earthquake, co-founding years, as the complaint provides, and this is Sky Atlantic and France’s Canal Plus, Man Who Fell to Earth” but did not upcoming season of the popular Fox televi- the J/P Haitian Relief Organization. But he only the most recent example,” he said. “The Last Panthers” stars Tahar Rahim- British musician David Bowie write the music amid contractual dis- sion show. “That poor boy (Terrence) ain’t also has a reputation for angry behavior. In Daniels is the Oscar-nominated filmmaker of best known for the French film “A arriving for the 17th Annual putes. Bowie’s works include the done nothing different than Marlon Brando 2010, he pleaded no contest to vandalism “Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Prophet”-and Samantha Morton, Glamour Women of the Year music for a BBC television version of or Sean Penn, and all of a sudden he’s some after he kicked a celebrity photographer, but Sapphire,” “The Paperboy” and “The Butler.” whose credits range from blockbuster awards at Carnegie Hall in New Bertolt Brecht’s play “Baal,” in which he ... demon,” Daniels said in the article. “That’s a the case later was dismissed. The new season of “Empire,” which he created “Minority Report” to Woody Allen’s York. —AFP acted. —AFP sign of time, of race, of where we are right In the 1980s, he was in court in connec- with Danny Strong, started yesterday. —AP LIFESTYLE37 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 Fashion Gucci in spotlight as Milan kicks off in upbeat mood

elebrity-packed New York and quirky London have offered up their best efforts under the relentless glare of the cat- Cwalk lights and the world’s media. Now it is time for the real heavyweights of Planet Fashion to put their stamp on what well- heeled women the world over will be wearing when the good weather comes around again next year. Milan’s Spring/Summer 2016 shows kicked off yesterday in the most optimistic mood Italian industry insiders have known for years thanks to a backdrop of strong sales at home and abroad and a revamp of the city’s fashion week infrastructure. With a new headquarters and exhibition facilities amidst the skyscrapers of the new Porta Nuova business district, organizers are anticipating an upbeat week in a metropolis already enjoying the spinoffs from the buzz generated by Expo 2015, the food- themed world fair that still has another six weeks to run.

All eyes on Gucci All eyes on the first of six packed days of shows were on Gucci, whose Alessandro Michele was set to unveil his second womenswear collection for the brand after making a flying start in the role he unexpectedly found himself in at the start of the year. The shaggy-haired Roman went from being an accessories designer known only to fashion insiders to one of the biggest jobs in the industry following the abrupt departure of his long-standing predecessor Frida Giannini. Famously, he only had five days to finish off Giannini’s final menswear collection and barely a month to put his first womenswear show together for the Winter Fall collections in February. He pulled it off in triumphant fashion with a collection that bore many of the hallmarks of his own, eccentric personal style-best described as a time travel tapestry in which English civil war roy- alist meets California dropout from the 1970s. Gucci’s bosses had said they wanted a new direction to turn around the brand’s flagging fortunes, and they got it. Now the world waits to see if Michele can maintain the momentum with his new creations set to be unveiled from 1300 GMT. Also staging catwalk showed yesterday are top Italian brands Fay and Alberta Ferretti, Germany’s Philipp Plein and the up-and-coming Italian- Haitian designer Stella Jean. Among the most eagerly awaited shows later in the week will be Norwegian designer Peter Dundas’s first since he left Emilio Pucci to return to Roberto Cavalli. The move followed a decision by the company’s eponymous founder and owner to sell out to Italian private equity group Clessidra after 45 years at its helm. There are also new starts for Arthur Arbesser at Iceberg and Massimo Giorgetti, who has been tipped to go for a total makeover of the Pucci brand after replacing Dundas there. The Milan shows conclude on Monday, with Giorgio Armani’s late morning presentation set to delay the departure of the fashion circus for Paris. Daizy Shely, known for her arresting and ultra-feminine designs, is this season’s beneficiary of Armani’s support for young designers with the Israeli granted the use of the veteran’s theatre for an eagerly awaited show on Saturday.

Booming sales Italy’s textile and clothing exports, dominated by the high value-added fashion sector, hit a record high in July and the national fashion body Camera della Moda is anticipating growth of 5.5 percent in all sales in 2015. For an industry that turned over 61.2 billion euros last year, that translates to a lot of secured jobs and significant margins for new investment. “Italian fashion has benefited from a stronger dollar and a return of confidence among European and American consumers,” said Gaetano Marzotto, head of the textile group Marzotto. “It is true that in China, luxury products, watches and jewelry in particular, have seen a fall in sales due to anti-corruption measures, but the accessible luxury that characterizes the made-in- Italy trademark have held up well.” Giuseppe Angiolini, honorary chairman of the Italian chamber of fashion buyers, says his compatriots appear to be falling in love with fashion again. “More than a recovery, I’d say it is an awakening,” he said. “Two years ago everyone was totally fed up with fashion. Now we are seeing customers’ desire and interest is back.” —AFP

Models wear creations for Gucci women’s Spring-Summer 2016 collection, part of the Milan Fashion Week, unveiled in Milan, Italy yesterday. —AP Five to watch at Milan fashion week

ive collections to watch out for during shown on Saturday. After 45 years at the helm of the eponymous the success of fellow football WAG Victoria Milan fashion week, which started yester- company he built into a pillar of the Italian fash- Beckham? Fday and runs till Monday with designers Garage style ion scene, Roberto Cavalli has finally handed showcasing Spring/Summer 2016 womenswear: Young Croatian designer Damir Doma control to a private equity group who have African quartet unveils his first womenswear collection since brought Norwegian designer Peter Dundas, for- Mimi Plange’s African-inspired designs have Feather Daizy quitting Paris for Milan on Sunday evening-in merly of Pucci, in as the new creative head. been worn by Rihanna, Serena Williams and Up-and-coming Israeli Daizy Shely has been an underground carpark known as Garage Dundas’s first womenswear collection in his sec- Michelle Obama. Laduma Ngxokolo’s knitwear given the Giorgio Armani seal of approval by SanRemo. Doma made the move after com- ond stint at Cavalli goes public on Saturday. was first aimed at Xhosa tribesmen preparing for being invited to present her eponymous collec- plaining he felt squeezed by “superbrands” Winonah the Wag manhood initiation ceremonies but is now sell- tion in the Armani theatre as the latest young and their marketing machines. Milan will The Surinam-born wife of Milan and Holland ing around the world. They are half of a quartet designer to benefit from the support of the bring him greater visibility, he hopes, and eas- midfield bruiser Nigel de Jong, Winonah de Jong of African designers showcasing their work all dean of Italian fashion. Arresting and ultra-femi- ier access to northern Italy’s specialist manu- makes the move from blogger and commentator week thanks to support from the Ethical Fashion nine is how critics define her style a marabou facturers. to designer when she presents her first wom- Initiative and Milan’s Biffi Boutique. —AFP feather coat is said to be among the items to be All change at Cavalli enswear collection on Friday. Could she emulate lifestyle THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 FEATURES How to have healthy and soft cuticles?

ow many times do we get our 3. Moisturize the skin around your nails done a month? I usually get nails. I always used the Essie Apricot Muslim Ha mani and pedi every 2 weeks Cuticle Oil. I can swear by this oil, it pilgrims join almost. Sometimes I go back to the salon helped my cuticles to become smooth one of the Hajj looking like I’ve never had a manicure in and soft, as well as helped my nails grow rituals on my life, it can be embarrassing! I realized faster. Mount Arafat that it all depends on how my skin is, if near Makkah. I’m not drinking enough water I tend to 4. Avoid manicurists that are rough have a lot of dead skin that we usually with their work, with that I meant don’t mistake as cuticles. go for the lady who’s willing to rip off the One of my main concerns when get- skin around your nails and call it a day. Biscuits for some, ting my nails done is my cuticles. You You should always explain to your mani- never know if you should totally remove curist that you want your cuticles them or let them as they are and eventu- pushed back and not removed, because ally they’ll look decent. I’ve read so many usually aggressive cleaning will cause buffets for others at hajj things about whether or not I should redness, wounds and eventually may remove or keep my cuticles. Honestly, cause having an infection. removing them looks way better and hey may be equal before God inside cleaner, but you’re also risking getting 5. Avoid having dry skin by not using Makkah’s Grand Mosque, but the rich and an infection. much nail polish removers or harsh poor pilgrims at the annual hajj clearly soaps. These products will dry out your T reveal their differences just beyond the gates. skin and result in rough cuticles. Outside the southern end of the sprawling com- pound lies a temple to consumerism. Several 6. Never put your hand in your mouth, high-end hotels, malls and restaurants are found if you’re a person that bites their nails or inside the six towers of the gargantuan Abraj al- the skin around you, you should definite- Bait complex. It includes the Mecca Royal Clock ly read up about ways how to quit this Tower, the world’s third-highest building which habit. Your mouth contains saliva and rises behind the mosque. In contrast, beyond your saliva contains bacteria, which will the eastern entrance of Islam’s holiest site, water eventually cause an infection too. drips from air conditioners, garbage is piled beside the roads, and a stench fills the air. 7. Massaging warm olive oil on your Elderly vendors in tiny shops shout the prices nails every night will help you moisturize of their simple goods-from traditional miswak (a your skin as well as provide your skin teeth-cleaning twig) to prayer rugs, wooden and nails with Vitamin E. rosaries and plastic slippers. “Here it’s cheaper,” says 60-year-old shop owner Abu Mohammed. 8. Give your nails a breather! If you’re “The poorer people come to buy from here the type of girl that loves nail polish make because in the other district the shops are more sure you give your nails a few days off a sophisticated and for people who have more week to breathe in the oxygen, the nail money,” he tells AFP. Saudi Arabia’s social securi- polish tends to cut off the oxygen to your ty department has opened the small retail out- nails and with time it causes your nails to lets to help elderly local men try to make a liv- turn a bit yellow and weak. Not cute. ing. Cuticles don’t want to be cut, they’re “The government pays everything, including supposed to be soft, and by cutting Your nails say a lot about you, it’s fem- the rent of the shop and the electricity. I only them they’ll more likely become dry and inine to have clean and pretty nails. It’s a buy the goods,” says Hasan, a 74-year-old ven- rough, which then makes us remove part of your beauty regimen to have dor. Across from them, African women sit selling about $1,000 a night during hajj season, with a shops there are expensive. These open-air mar- them over and over again, and it just healthy nails first and foremost before seeds to pilgrims willing to feed flocks of seven-night minimum, according to another kets here are cheaper,” she says. Um Hani could becomes an addiction to get what we worrying about growing them. The most pigeons, a common sight around the massive employee. not have even made it to the hajj had her name think is the “clean” look. appropriate and classy growth of nails is mosque’s courtyards. Volunteers outside the Many of the rooms overlook the Grand not been randomly selected in the Egyptian a bit longer than your skin. eastern gates hand out boxes of food to pilgrims Mosque’s holy Kaaba, a cube-shaped structure government’s annual electronic lottery to per- Here are a few things that you can do Sometimes having really long nails who sit on the roads eating despite the heat of towards which Muslims around the world pray. form the pilgrimage. She is satisfied with the to make sure you have healthy, soft can be uncomfortable and hard to keep around 40 C (104 F). Yasser Riad, a guest at one of the hotels who free “biscuits, tuna, beans, and juice” the pilgrims cuticles: clean, that is why having shorter nails came with his wife from Egypt, says they paid are offered at her shabby high rise hostel, typical 1. First, stop cutting them. They might look and feels good. Try not neglecting ‘High-class pilgrims’ around $5,000 each for the whole trip. “We try to of the accommodation for poorer hajjis. Biscuits seem off for a while but then they grow taking care of your nails because with Back in the air-conditioned Abraj Al-Bait com- be close to the Grand Mosque so we can save for some. Buffets for others. out and settle in to the shape of your time your nails tend to become weak plex, elevators swiftly rise and descend, and cut- time for prayer,” says the 45-year-old lawyer. The But rich and poor all wear the same ihram nails. and fragile, which can also result in nails lery gently clinks. Pleasantly smiling staff and couple shop at the mall connected to their hotel clothes for hajj-a seamless white two-piece gar- being so unhealthy they won’t grow in security men make sure pilgrims find their way “because it’s usually too hot outside”. ment for men and any loose dress, typically 2. Make sure you wash your hands length. At this point girls always go for around polished lobbies. “Our guests are gener- white, for women. No matter which gate they regularly, when you cut your cuticles you nails extension which will further more ally the high-class and well-to-do pilgrims who Biscuits and beans enter from, the pilgrims gather side-by-side for are more likely to get a bacterial infec- harm your nails by blocking off oxygen are willing to pay more in return for comfort,” For Um Hani, a 55-year-old pilgrim dragging prayer at the crowded mosque and leave tion due to any open wound, and it will then eventually cause discoloration and says an employee at one of the hotels, request- her feet as she sweats under the heat of the east- together for the nearby tent-city of Mina to also slow down nail growth. breakage. ing anonymity. The hotel charges an average of ern district, this is unimaginable luxury. “The begin the hajj. — AFP Japan’s ‘Golden Bolt’ stuns medical science to set world record

Hidekichi Miyazaki, 105, is congratulated by family members after running with Hidekichi Miyazaki (back center), 105, runs with other competitors over other competitors over eighty years of age during a 100-metre-dash in the Hidekichi Miyazaki (center, in red), 105, speaks to the press after running eighty years of age during a 100-metre-dash. Kyoto Masters Autumn Competiton. with other competitors. fleet-footed Japanese centenarian raced harder. Training was going splendidly, so I before being presented with a certificate still being built-only took up running in his early into the Guinness World Records refer- had set myself a target of 35 seconds. I can from Guinness officials. 90s and prepares for races by taking a sneaky Aence book yesterday and declared him- still go faster.” “I will say this: I’m proud of my catnap. He stands just 1.53 meters (five feet) tall self a “medical marvel” as he continues to stalk health,” added Miyazaki, the poster boy for Dream race and weighs in at 42 kilograms (92 pounds). He sprint king Usain Bolt. Hidekichi Miyazaki, Japan’s turbo-charged geriatrics in a country Asked about Bolt’s latest heroics at last trains religiously by popping a kilogram weight dubbed “Golden Bolt” after the fastest man on with one of the world’s highest life month’s athletics world championships in into a rucksack and going for daily walks around the planet, clocked 42.22 seconds in Kyoto to expectancies. Beijing, Miyazaki screwed up his nose and said his local park in Kyoto, where he now lives. set a 100 meters world record in the over-105 “The doctors gave me a medical exami- with a chuckle: “He hasn’t raced me yet!” The “It’s all about willpower,” Miyazaki said of age category-one for which no mark previously nation a couple of days ago and I’m fit as a twinkle-toed Miyazaki, who holds the 100 his need for speed. “You have to keep going.” existed-a day after reaching the milestone age. fiddle. “My brain might not be the sharpest meters world record for centenarians at 29.83 Japanese television crews jostled as Miyazaki, “I’m not happy with the time,” the pint-sized but physically I’m tip-top. I’ve never had any seconds, insisted there was still time for a a native of tea-growing Shizuoka prefecture, Miyazaki told AFP in an interview after recov- health problems. The doctors are amazed by dream race against the giant Jamaican. “I arrived for his record tilt sporting dapper ering his wind. “I started shedding tears during me. I can definitely keep on running for would still love to compete against him,” said white slacks and a Panama hat. Job done on the race because I was going so slowly. another two or three years.” Miyazaki, who loses valuable seconds because the track, the Japanese iron man proved he Perhaps I’m getting old!” Indeed, so leisurely Dressed in his trademark red, tight shorts he cannot hear the starter’s gun go off. “Two or was a dab hand at the shot put, tossing a best was his pace that Bolt could have run his hiked alarmingly high, Miyazaki got off to a three years ago Bolt came to Japan and said he effort of 3.25 meters before calling it a day. “I world record of 9.58 four times, or practically wobbly start before finding a gentle rhythm wanted to meet me. There was a call about it can’t think about retiring,” said Miyazaki, completed a 400 meters race-a fact not lost on and trotting across the finish line to loud but I was out and he left without meeting me. I whose next competition is next month’s Miyazaki. cheers, greeted by his great-grandchildren felt deeply sorry.” Japanese Masters Championships. “I have to “I’m still a beginner, you know,” he said, carrying bouquets. Cheekily, he celebrated Miyazaki, who was born in 1910 — the year Hidekichi Miyazaki, 105, throws a shot put continue for a few more years, to show my grinning from ear to ear. “I’ll have to train by striking Bolt’s famous “lightning” pose Japan annexed Korea and when the Titanic was after running with other competitors. gratitude to my fans.” — AFP lifestyle THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015 PalestinianFEATURE cooks put resistance on the menu

A Palestinian woman eats falafel, a traditional dish consisting of A Palestinian man makes falafel, a traditional dish consisting of fried chickpeas on a street. — AFP photos fried chickpeas on a street in the West Bank city of Nablus.

A Palestinian man makes traditional Palestinian dishes. A Palestinian man makes traditional Palestinian sweets. A Palestinian man makes traditional Palestinian sweets.

atima Kadumy’s weapons of resistance include stuffed squash and yoghurt with Fgarlic-for her, food is just as powerful as stones or petrol bombs. “To defend the country some prefer war, but there are other, more pleasing, ways to do it,” said Kadumy, a Palestinian who runs a cooking school in the West Bank city of Nablus that does much more than teach students proper knife skills. Kadumy came up with the “crazy idea” seven years ago to use Palestinian traditional cuisine to promote her people’s cause and act as advocate for the independent state they have long sought. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Since 2008, she has hosted more than 1,200 visitors from countries including China, Australia, Germany and the United States, among others. “There are politics and resistance behind cuisine,” she said in the small kitchen at her centre in Nablus’s Old City that she has named Bait al-Karama, which is Arabic for House of Dignity. “We show our city and our lives as we see them. Foreigners can then judge Palestinians from the inside.” On one recent day, an American couple from Washington learned how to prepare stuffed leaves and courgettes. A quiet but skilled chef, Nidal, led the class. One of the Americans, Rex, said he appreciated an opportunity to “share the daily lives of residents” in Nablus, the site of heavy clashes during the second Palestinian intifada, or uprising, Israelis do not only dispute territory-they also make hummus and now they say that they between 2000-2005. disagree about the origin of certain dishes. invented it,” he added with a smile. A number One prominent example is hummus, the of Israelis sat at tables among tourists on a Peace, love and hummus? paste made from chickpeas so often associat- recent day. “Look at our plates-empty!” said Before the cooking lesson, they followed ed with Middle Eastern cuisine. Another is Eldad, a 52-year-old who had come with his Kadumy through the streets of the old city to falafel, also made from chick peas but this daughter, after polishing off the last bit of buy local Palestinian produce-and only local time ground and deep-fried. They do, howev- bread dipped in hummus with parsley and red Palestinian produce. Her organization boy- er, tend to agree on one point when it comes ground sumac on top. cotts Israeli goods. Kadumy says a meal sets to hummus: The best comes from Abu Shukri, “We love to come here. It’s delicious.” An the table for a talk about politics. “And over a a small restaurant in Jerusalem’s Old City rec- Israeli woman named Neta who had driven for meal, we always talk more calmly, more easily,” ommended by in-the-know tourist guides. half an hour to come and eat in the Old City has said Kadumy, wearing a blue and gold veil Yasser Taha inherited the restaurant opened bigger ambitions for the humble dish. “Everyone with her sunglasses balanced on top. Her by his father in 1948, the year Israel was creat- loves hummus,” she said. “It’s something that we A Palestinian organization is also part of the global Slow ed. He is not shy about taking credit for his have in common. It can bring us together and woman Food movement based in Italy that promotes family’s sought-after recipe. bring peace.” Nearby postcard sellers don’t nec- teaches local traditional cuisine, and she showcases essarily share her vision-or at least they don’t foreigners to dishes at the organization’s expo. “For too Empty plates for peace think that potential customers do. Some post- cook long, we have allowed the Israelis to speak,” “The Israelis learned to make hummus with cards show falafel with an Israeli flag. But at oth- traditional Kadumy said. “Now there is the Israel stand, us,” he said of the dish with ancient and er stores not far away, it’s the black, red and Palestinian but also the Palestine stand.” Palestinians and unclear origins. “They watched and learned to white of the Palestinian flag. — AFP dishes.

A Palestinian man makes falafel, a traditional dish consisting of fried chickpeas A Palestinian woman teaches foreigners to cook traditional Palestinian dishes at Palestinian cooking teacher Fatima Kadumy shops with foreigners at a on a street. the home of Fatima Kadumy, a Palestinian woman, in the West Bank city of Nablus. market. Palestinian cooks put resistance on39 the menu THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2015

Muslim pilgrims gather to perform noon and afternoon prayers at Namira Mosque in Mount Arafat, southeast of the Saudi holy city of Makkah, yesterday. Arafat Day, on the 9th of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijja, is the climax of the hajj season. Pilgrims gather on the hill known as Mount Arafat, and its surrounding plain, where they remain until evening for prayer and Quran recitals. Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) is believed to have delivered his final hajj sermon there. — AFP UK food recycling cafes go global in fight against

hen former chef Adam Smith opened a and unsellable under trading rules-and turning it small cafe in Britain’s industrial North into perfectly edible meals. Since the project Wtwo years ago, serving up dishes with began in December 2013, almost 200 tonnes of food destined for the scrap heap, he had big food has been “intercepted”, Smith said. aspirations-to fight global food waste. “From day Roughly one third of the food produced in one I set out to feed the world and I intend to do the world for human consumption every year- that,” the Yorkshireman said ambitiously, as he approximately 1.3 billion tones-gets lost or wast- charted the growth of his ethical empire the Real ed, according to the UN. By offering meals on a Junk Food Project (RJFP). From its humble roots “pay-as-you-feel” basis RJFP cafes sidestep food in a community centre in the deprived Armley regulations since it is against the law in Britain to district of Leeds, northern England, the project actually “sell” food past its use-by date. Smith’s now has around 120 affiliated cafes worldwide, formulation is tantamount to a voluntary dona- including Australia, France, South Korea, the US tion, with the amount up to the customer, which and, most recently, Nigeria. keeps all on the legal side of matters, he said. The “People are beginning to realise we are a seri- team, meanwhile, is discriminating, not all food is ous organisation,” said Smith, having just accepted. “We make our own judgment, by tast- returned from an awareness-raising event feeding and smelling, as to whether food is fit for ing MPs at Britain’s parliament with food saved consumption.” A woman writes on the pavement as she advertises a Real Junk Food Project (RJFP) at a from garbage bins. The simple concept involves Smith is clear that his vision was not about Church in Brighton. — AFP photos collecting food that would otherwise have been feeding poor people, but for many communities this is “part of the joy for them”, said Cooper. At thrown away-usually because it is “out-of-date” it is a way of reaching those on low incomes or Elsie’s “binner” event this month, a guest chef transformed discarded local produce into a three-course feast of gourmet crostini with pear salsa, sausage plait with polenta cake, and a chocolate fig dessert. “You can actually have a conscience about eating cake,” joked Heike Mapstone, a call centre worker, after the dinner. “I think it is a great idea. Why should we waste all this food?” Cooper knows her cafe is only “scraping the tip of the iceberg” but hopes col- A menu is pictured outside a Real Junk lective efforts will “expose the food system for Food Project (RJFP) cafe. what it is”. none. Helped by around 90 volunteers, retiree “There is so much wrong with it,” she said. Shena Cooper runs “Elsie’s” cafe in the town of “The fact that we can fly bananas half way Northampton, central England, as part of the around the world and then throw them into RJFP network. “We want to create a mixed socie- landfill is ridiculous.” ty within the cafe,” she said. “Some people come Adam Buckingham feeds some 200 people a in for coffee and cake and give a few pounds. But week at a church-based RJFP cafe in Brighton, there are people who cannot give anything.” where food donations have included legs of cured serrano ham and huge stockpiles of ‘Binner’ chocolate. “It shocks people that all this food Volunteers face the challenge of creating People queue to enter a Real Junk Food would have gone in the bin,” he said, adding that tasty dishes from whatever food is available, but Project (RJFP) cafe in a Church in Brighton. a change in attitudes and legislation is needed. Volunteers prepare food in the kitchen area of a Real Junk Food Project (RJFP) cafe. “Unfortunately we have got to a point where we think it is ok to throw away food and buy more. We’re blinded by convenience.” In north London, a pair of entrepreneurs have harnessed what they believe is a growing aversion to this mindset. Tessa Cook and her American business partner Saasha Celestial-One launched a new app-”Olio”-to connect consumers with sources of surplus food. The app allows donors to upload pictures of items that may be nearing their sell-by-date and users can browse for food and arrange a pick-up via private messaging. “We did some market research and found that one third of people were ‘physically pained’ throwing away food. To me that was mind blow- ing,” said Cook. So far the pair have signed up 15 “founding merchants”-individuals and businesses willing to share produce. Although currently focused on London, Cook hopes the app will eventually go global. “The more we looked into it the more we were overwhelmed by the sheer enormity of the food being wasted. It seems totally wasteful, irresponsible and immoral,” she People eat at a Real Junk Food Project (RJFP) cafe. People eat at a Real Junk Food Project (RJFP) cafe in a Church in Brighton. said. — AFP