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THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 RABI AL-THANI 28, 1438 AH www.kuwaittimes.net Filipino envoy Bolt loses gold calls for maid as IOC strips moratorium after Jamaica of Filipina 3hanged 200820 relay win Royal, tent arsonist, maids Min 06º among 7 inmates executed Max 22º High Tide 12:14 & 22:27 Prisoners hanged for committing ‘heinous crimes’ Low Tide 05:46 & 16:55 40 PAGES NO: 17122 150 FILS KUWAIT: Kuwaiti authorities hanged seven prisoners in a mass execution yesterday, including a ruling family mem- Tehran, Kuwait urge better Iran-Gulf ties ber and a woman convicted of killing 58 women and chil- dren when she set fire to a wedding tent - the first death TEHRAN: Iran’s president and Kuwait’s foreign minis- sentences carried out in several years in the state. “The ter both appealed yesterday for better relations central prison carried out death sentences against seven between the Islamic Republic and Gulf Arab coun- individuals who committed a number of heinous crimes,” tries, Iranian media reported. According to President the public prosecution said in a statement. Hassan Rouhani’s website, he told visiting Kuwaiti top Those executed included a Bangladeshi, a Filipina, an diplomat Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah that Iran’s Ethiopian, two Kuwaitis and two Egyptians, according to foreign policy is aimed at improving “friendly and the statement carried on the state-run KUNA news agency. brotherly” relations with neighboring Muslim coun- KUNA said that all had been convicted of murder except tries. Rouhani also said cooperation was needed to the Bangladeshi man, who was convicted of rape, kidnap- fight terrorism with “unity, integrity and (by) helping” ping and theft. HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al- each other. Sabah authorized the executions, which were carried out Iranian state TV reported earlier in the day that in the morning at the prison. Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled said Gulf Arab nations hope The royal was identified as Sheikh Faisal Abdullah Al- ties “with Iran will normalize” and that Iran and the Jaber Al-Sabah, who killed his nephew Basil Al-Sabah, also Arab countries should be “regional partners”. The TV a member of the ruling family, in 2010 over a dispute. He is said the foreign minister in a meeting with his Iranian the first ruling family member to be executed in Kuwait. counterpart, Mohammad Javad Zarif, handed over a Executions of royals in Gulf countries are rare but do hap- message from Kuwaiti Amir HH Sheikh Sabah Al- pen. In October, Saudi Arabia executed a prince who fatal- Ahmad Al-Sabah to Rouhani about the “necessity of ly shot another man in a melee. improving relations”. The second Kuwaiti national executed yesterday was “It’s necessary that the differing views and misun- Nusra Al-Enezi. She was convicted of setting fire to a wed- derstandings between the countries of the region ding tent in 2009 after her husband took a second wife. The should come to an end in a calm atmosphere and blaze killed 58 women and children, her lawyer Zaid Al- through frank dialogue,” Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled said, Khabbaz said. The Bedouin-style tent, put up so women according to the Islamic Republic News Agency attending could be uncovered for the event, had only one (IRNA). Zarif commended Kuwait for its role in trying entrance. Dozens of others were injured in a stampede dur- to improve relations. “The role of the Amir of Kuwait ing the fire, which later led Kuwait to ban the tents. The in supporting positive neighborly relations between lawyer said he last spoke to his client a month ago. “She countries in the region is worthy of praise,” Zarif said, TEHRAN: Iranian President Hassan Rouhani (right) meets Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al- sounded very fragile, very shaken, more than any other time,” according to IRNA. Sabah yesterday, where Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled delivered a letter from HH the Amir on the troubled ties Khabbaz told AP. “It’s impossible to say that she intended to Continued on Page 13 between the Islamic republic and its Arab neighbors in the Gulf. — AFP kill all those women and children. ... It was a tragedy.” Continued on Page 13 Corruption on the rise in Kuwait State sinks 20 spots in global corruption index By A Saleh a possible 100. Kuwait had ranked 55th out of 168 countries in the 2015 index Traffickers using KUWAIT: Kuwait dropped 20 spots in the with 49 points. Kuwait was tied in the 75th latest Corruption Perception Index place with Tunisia, Bulgaria, and Turkey. Gulf tourist visas released by Transparency International Furthermore, Kuwait tied with Tunisia for to beat India rules yesterday, which also saw regression seventh among Arab countries, falling across the board among Arab countries. behind the United Arab Emirates (24th MUMBAI: Traffickers are bypassing government The Corruption Perception Index 2016 worldwide), Qatar (31), Jordan (57), Saudi efforts to protect thousands of Indian housemaids KUWAIT: Panelists attend the Petroleum Economist GCC Energy Strategy Forum ranks Kuwait 75th out of 176 countries Arabia (62) Oman (64) and Bahrain (70). from slave-like conditions in the Gulf by transporting worldwide, with a score of 41 points out of Continued on Page 13 yesterday. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat women on tourist visas, according to Indian emigra- tion officials. The officials told Thomson Reuters that Marzouq: Oil market is women who fly out as tourists were mostly rendered untraceable once overseas. “They fly on a tourist visa so they can skip the emigration check and then we starting to rebalance don’t know where they go,” said M C Luther, Protector General of Emigrants in India. “I have no data of how By Faten Omar agreed in December to reduce output by many women have gone and what happened to a total of 1.8 million barrels per day “are them. We are now requesting countries to not con- KUWAIT: Oil markets have already begun complying with their commitments to vert tourist visas to employment visas.” to rebalance after strong signs that pro- cut”. Marzouq heads a five-country com- Government figures show there are an estimated ducers are complying with output cuts, mittee tasked with monitoring the six million Indian migrants in the six Gulf states of Kuwaiti Oil Minister Essam Al-Marzouq implementation of the landmark deal. Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab said yesterday. “We are confident that The committee met in Vienna on Sunday Emirates and Oman. One housemaid working in rebalancing in the oil markets has and said that compliance with the six- Riyadh alleged in 2015 that her employer had sev- already started,” Marzouq said. “We month accord, which took effect on Jan ered her hand - a case that hit international headlines expect a positive impact on the market 1, had been very encouraging. The aim is and highlighted the plight of thousands of Indian by the end of the first quarter of 2017,” to reduce a global glut that has housemaids working in Gulf countries. he told the Petroleum Economist GCC depressed oil prices and blown a huge India has since been insisting that employers fol- Strategy Forum organized by Petroleum hole in the public finances of producer low the rules by registering with the Indian Mission Intelligence. nations, despite being good news for and lodging a security deposit of $2,500, but these Marzouq said that signs indicate that consumers. Continued on Page 13 KUWAIT: The sun sets behind the Kuwait City skyline. — KUNA OPEC and non-OPEC producers who Continued on Page 13 Saudi Arabia unveils next-gen F-15 fighter

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia unveiled its next-generation fighter- Riyadh feared the Houthis would seize all of Yemen and bomber yesterday, nearly two years after beginning an air move it into the orbit of Iran, Saudi Arabia’s regional rival. war in Yemen. At a ceremony and air show in the Saudi cap- Saudi Arabia is to add 84 F-15SA warplanes to its air ital, a hangar opened to reveal one of the F-15SA Eagle air- force under a nearly $30 billion deal signed in 2011 that craft made by US manufacturer Boeing. A missile was also included Black Hawk and Apache helicopters. attached to the belly of the plane displayed against the According to IHS Jane’s Defense Weekly, the first of the F- backdrop of a giant Saudi flag. 15SAs - the most advanced version of the Eagle built so far - Watched by King Salman and his son, Defense Minister arrived in December. Saudi Arabia also has Eurofighter and Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Typhoons and Tornados, which joined several F-15s - unveiling at the King Faisal Air Academy was part of a cere- including the newest version - in the air show held over the mony to mark the school’s 50th anniversary and the gradu- skies of Riyadh. ation of its latest class. Sudan’s President Omar Al-Bashir, The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute whose country is part of the Saudi-led coalition fighting reported in April that Saudi Arabia was the world’s third- rebels in Yemen, also attended. largest defense spender. According to the International RIYADH: Saudi Air Force officers stand at attention in front of an advanced F-15SA fighter jet during a ceremony The coalition began air strikes over Yemen in March Institute for Strategic Studies, Saudi Arabia had an air force marking the 50th anniversary of the King Faisal Air Academy at King Salman Airbase yesterday. (Inset) King 2015 after Iran-backed Houthi rebels and allied troops loyal of 20,000 personnel and 313 combat-capable aircraft. Most Salman bin Abdulaziz is seen at the ceremony. — AFP to ex-president Ali Abdullah Saleh overran much of Yemen. are versions of the F-15. — AFP LOCAL THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah receives Acting President of the State KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets with President of Saudi’s Audit Bureau Adel Al-Sarawi, President of Saudi’s General Auditing Bureau Hussam bin Abdulmohsen Al-Anqari General Auditing Bureau Hussam bin Abdulmohsen Al-Anqari and bureau members. — KUNA photos and bureau members. Amir receives Saudi auditing bureau chief

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received at Bayan Palace yesterday President of Saudi’s General Auditing Bureau Hussam bin Abdulmohsen Al-Anqari and bureau members. The meet- ing was attended by Deputy Minister of Amiri Diwan Affairs Sheikh Ali Jarrah Al-Sabah and Acting President of the State Audit Bureau Adel Al-Sarawi. Later, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Sabah received Acting President of the State Audit Bureau Adel Al-Sarawi, accompanied by Anqari and the Saudi bureau members. The meeting was attended by head of the protocols department at the Diwan of His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Mubarak Sabah Al-Salem Al- Humoud Al-Sabah. Earlier yesterday, His Highness the Amir received His Highness the Crown Prince as well as His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al- Sabah. Meanwhile, His Highness the Crown Prince received His Highness Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khaled Al-Jarrah Al- Sabah and Minister of Electricity and Water and Minister of Oil Essam Al-Marzouq. His Highness the Crown Prince also received Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Sheikh Mohammad Al-Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, as well as Environment Public Authority’s Chairman Sheikh Abdullah Ahmad Al-Humoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and editor-in-chief of Al-Shahed daily His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets with His His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets Sheikh Sabah Mohammad Sabah Saud Al-Sabah. — KUNA Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. with Minister of Electricity and Water and Minister of Oil Essam Al-Marzouq. News In brief PAY opens pavilion in Sabah

Amir receives message from Palestinian leader Al-Ahmad Heritage Village KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received a verbal message from Palestinian President and Chairman of the tKUWAIT: The Public Authority for Youth The participating bodies at PAY’s PAY’s pavilion and its distinctive sections lic, particularly during February, which Palestine Liberation Organization Mahmoud Abbas yes- (PAY) opened its own pavilion in Sabah pavilion include the State Minister for in boosting the genuine values of coincides with the country’s national fes- terday. The message touched on bilateral ties and Al-Ahmad Heritage Village yesterday as Youth’s office, National Fund for Small Kuwaiti heritage inside youngsters, valu- tivities, Sheikh Fahad Al-Jaber affirmed means of promoting cooperation in all domains. part of the ongoing Gulf Popular and Medium Enterprise (SME), the Public ing His Highness the Amir’s sponsorship to reporters following the pavilion’s President of the Palestinian Economic Council for Heritage festival, which kicked off on Authority for Sport (PAS), the executive of the festival, which aims at cheering up inauguration. Development and Reconstruction Dr Mohammad January 15th. The pavilion includes an authority for Kuwait Students Union, the spirits of Kuwaitis and Gulf people. The event itself is of significance, he Shtayyeh relayed the message to Deputy Minister of exhibition for state sectors, currently Kuwait Olympic Committee (KOC), KOC is keen on taking part in PAY’s indicated, adding that it shows young Amiri Diwan Affairs Sheikh Ali Jarrah Al-Sabah. — KUNA taking part in the festival, in addition to Information Ministry’s Tourism Sector, pavilion in order to communicate with generations the struggles and difficul- popular and traditional games, a special and INJAZ Kuwait. the youth and boost noble Olympic val- ties their old ancestors had to face in stall for youth action, and a youth gath- Meanwhile, KOC’s Chairman Sheikh ues through organizing contests and order to build their country and secure a Parliament speaker ering hall. Fahad Jaber Al-Ali Al-Sabah commended granting prizes to the participating pub- decent life for them. — KUNA receives WB official KUWAIT: Kuwaiti National Assembly Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanem met in his office yesterday with World Bank (WB) Kuwait Office Director Dr Feras Raad and several other officials. The meeting was attended by member of parliament Faisal Al-Kandari. Meanwhile, Ghanem met with visiting Saudi General Auditing Bureau Hussam bin Abdulmohsen Al- Anqari. MP Humoud Al-Khudeir and Acting President of Kuwait’s State Audit Bureau Adel Al-Sarawi were present at the meeting. — KUNA

MP participates in PUIC meeting KUWAIT: Kuwait parliament is keen on participating in Kuwait Olympic Committee’s Chairman Sheikh Fahad General Supervisor of Sabah Al-Ahmad Heritage Village, The Public Authority for Youth’s Director Abdurrahman Islamic parliamentary meetings to boost role of parlia- Jaber Al-Ali Al-Sabah. Amiri Diwan Advisor Mohammad Daifullah Sharar. Al-Mutairi. mentary diplomacy of Kuwait and exchange of expert- ise, MP Ouda Al-Ruwaiee said Tuesday. Ruwaiee, Secretary of parliamentary caucus, was speaking after participating in a meeting of Human Rights, Woman and Family Committee of the Parliamentary Union of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states (PUIC). Ruwaiee said the committee members, meeting in capital of Mali, Bamako, discussed human rights, promotion of role of woman in development, family care, protection of children and youth. The members, he added, approved a Kuwaiti proposal over the establishment of centers designed to evaluate needs of children up to six years old. The proposal, he said, aimed at benefiting from growth opportunities among children. They also discussed conditions of women and children in conflict zones, violations com- mitted by terrorist groups in Muslim countries, as well as the state terrorism by Israeli against the Palestinian people, he said. — KUNA

KUWAIT: Officials attend the inauguration of the Public Authority for Youth’s pavilion Children play the ‘dama’ board game at the Sabah Al-Ahmad Heritage Village. Cultural cooperation in Sabah Al-Ahmad Heritage Village yesterday. — KUNA with Iran ‘excellent’ TEHRAN: A Kuwaiti official on Tuesday described as “excellent” the cultural cooperation with Iran. Mohammad Al-Asousi, Assistant Secretary General for Army Chief of the National Council for Culture, Art and Letters (NCCAL), said Iran could offer “wide-ranging services Staff meets for the Islamic world” because of its “huge capabili- ties.” Asousi was quoted by the official IRNA news agency on sidelines of a ceremony held by the Islamic British General Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO) marking selection of Iranian city of Mashhad KUWAIT: The Kuwaiti Army’s Chief of Staff Lieutenant as the capital of Islamic Culture for 2017. He said cul- General Mohammad Al-Khoder met yesterday with tural development in the Islamic countries was not General Thomas Beckett, the advisor to the British restricted on government sector but other sectors as Secretary of State for Defense. During the meeting, they well. “The exceptional cultural activity of the Iranian discussed several issues that concern both sides, the cultural center, the cultural and media cooperation Kuwaiti Defense’s Moral Guidance and Public Relations agreements between Iran and Kuwait reaffirm the Directorate said in a statement. They also addressed bilat- two countries’ desire to strengthen relations further,” eral cooperation in various aspects, mainly military ties and ways of promoting them, it added. A number of senior KUWAIT: Kuwaiti Army’s Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Mohammad Al-Khoder meets with General Thomas he said. — KUNA generals attended the meeting. — KUNA Beckett, the advisor to the British Secretary of State for Defense. —KUNA THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 LOCAL Envoy pushes for freeze on recruiting Filipino helpers Villa expresses sadness on Filipina’s execution

By Ben Garcia

KUWAIT: “We will push harder for a moratori- um to be imposed on Filipino domestic helpers,” said Philippine Ambassador to Kuwait Renato Pedro Villa as he reacted on the execution yesterday of Jakatia Pawa, a domestic helper who was found guilty in 2010 for killing her employer’s daughter. Speaking to Kuwait Times at the embassy yesterday, Villa said he will push harder for the moratorium that has been lying on the table KUWAIT: Shuwaikh firemen responded to the scene of a traffic accident reported yes- of the Philippines’ Department of Foreign terday in the area. They freed a Kuwaiti who was trapped in one of the vehicles Affairs and the Department of Labor and involved in the accident. The man was taken along with another crash victim, an Employment for years now. “I think it’s about Asian national, to the hospital. —By Hanan Al-Saadoun time. We need to protect our workers,” he said. Villa said as of last month, the number of Jakatia Pawa Philippines’ Ambassador Renato Villa Filipinos in Kuwait reached 250,000, of whom 158,000 work as domestic helpers. “The the hanging on Tuesday afternoon. At least mosque and madrasa in the name of her Kuwait records deployment of our workers continues; in fact we managed to talk to Pawa. In the morning, daughter in Mindanao,” he said. arrivals per month total 3,500 domestic we went to the Central Jail to look for other helpers. This is huge, so we need real and gen- possibilities, but we were not allowed to enter No avail KD 5.2 billion budget uine protection for our OFWs, as they are vul- the execution area. Only after her death were In 2010, then vice president Noli de Castro nerable to mistreatment and abuse by we informed that Pawa was executed at 10.19 was sent to Kuwait to appeal for Pawa’s life, to deficit by 2016’s end employers,” he said. am. After learning about the execution, we no avail. Pawa, 44, was a native of Zamboanga went to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs so we Sibugay. She is survived by two children aged ‘Not guilty’ could arrange and claim her remains. But 18 and 16. Pawa had a degree in banking and By A Saleh underlined. Khodair stressed that the Pawa always maintained she was not guilty Pawa’s family decided on burying her in finance from Zamboanga private school, but government’s excuse that such calls and of the crime, according to Villa. “Pawa suppos- Kuwait in the Muslim tradition,” he said. she worked as a domestic helper in Kuwait. She KUWAIT: The total deficit in Kuwait’s proposals were unconstitutional were edly stabbed her victim several times with a “When I spoke to Pawa yesterday, she was worked for the same employer for five years till budget till the end of Dec 2016 was KD nothing but attempts to avoid confronta- kitchen knife while she was asleep at dawn on very sad, but she had already accepted her the crime took place in 2007. Pawa was a 5.2 billion, said a report by the finance tion. “I advise the government to yield to May 14, 2007. The murder knife which was fate. She said she had spoken to her family Muslim by birth and so keeping with her faith’s ministry’s economic team, expecting the these calls,” he added, noting that the found at the crime scene did not match back home,” Villa recalled. “We did our best to tradition, her body was to be buried before amount to fall a little after some govern- government’s cooperation in this regard Pawa’s DNA, although a glove found at the save her from the gallows, but the mother of sunset. There are two more Filipinos in Kuwait ment bodies make the needed settle- would be for the greater good and for crime scene had her DNA. The court has its the victim refused to forgive her. His Highness on death row. “The sentence of one of them ments. The report also stressed that the that of work within the parliament. own evaluation of the evidence, and is based the Amir can only bestow a pardon when the has been commuted, while the other is under deficit is expected to fall starting this on their findings and the record of her case. At ‘tanazul’ (waiver) is signed. We asked for a appeal. I am sad that some of our kababayans month after the launch of the first Mega projects the end, we respect Kuwait’s court decision,” reprieve and hired lawyers to help us on are involved in such cases. I urge everyone to Government Finance Management Ministry of Public Work’s (MPW) he said. Pawa’s case. The idea of the lawyer, since the follow the local laws here and avoid being Information System. The report Undersecretary Awatif Al-Ghunaim said Villa recalled his last conversation with sentenced was already upheld by the court, involved in such crimes. Also, as we speak, we explained that the government will need that the ministry was waiting for the Pawa at the Central Jail immediately after was to talk to the family of the victim. The have 60 more cases of drug related incarcera- KD 6.1 billion in funding for 2016-2017 finance ministry’s approval of MPW’s learning that her name was included in the tanazul wasn’t signed, so we tried to negoti- tions of our fellow kababayans in local jails after deducting the future generations projects budget of KD 1.1 billion needed list of people to be executed yesterday. “I was ate in backchannels by talking to an imam, here. Although we are helping them; the best share, and that an extra KD 3.5 billion for all the ministry’s mega construction stunned because we were not informed but the mother still refused to grant forgive- way is to avoid getting in trouble. Follow the would be needed in 2017 and 2018. and maintenance projects. Ghunaim ahead of time. We were only informed about ness, even though we promised to build a laws and rules in Kuwait,” he advised. added that a meeting would be held Fuel prices with the parliament to discuss the loose MP Humoud Al-Khodair urged the gravel on various road and the solution government to return fuel prices to pre- to be used. vious rates before the price increase was Tabtabaei to join Mutair in grilling imposed in September 2016, especially Accreditation since citizens are being overburdened Education Minister Mohammed Al- with financial obligations in view of sky- Fares issued a ministerial decision on premier as MPs step up pressure rocketing consumer prices. Khodair regulating the accreditation of school added that the parliamentary financial leaving certificates issued by Arab pri- Needed majority available to scrap price hikes affairs committee members called for vate schools outside Kuwait. The regula- cancelling the fuel price increase and the tions conditioned that a student should By B Izzak erate. The lawmaker called on the government law on increasing electricity and water file his mark sheets starting from grade to reduce petrol prices to their levels prior to the tariffs. “Such repeated parliamentary calls 11, prove that he only attended morning KUWAIT: Islamist opposition MP Waleed Al- September 1 hikes especially the decision has are clear messages from the people to classes, be within the maximum age cat- Tabtabaei said yesterday that he has decided to formed a major burden on the people directly the government calling for recalculations egory, be a regular student and that the join his fellow MP Mohammad Al-Mutair in impacting their standard of living. and a response to calls capable of win- certificates are attested from relevant grilling the prime minister if the government Hajeri said the moves and decisions made at ning a majority vote in parliament,” he authorities. refuses to cooperate in scrapping the hikes in the national assembly financial affairs and legal prices of petrol and electricity and in the citizen- affairs committees are a popular message to the ship issue. government which should understand it and The lawmaker, who has already filed the first scrap the increases. Commerce Ministry grilling in the current assembly against The financial committee on Tuesday gave Information and Youth Minister Sheikh Salman Finance Minister Anas Al-Saleh two weeks to bans poultry imports Al-Humoud Al-Sabah, said on his Twitter account provide the government’s opinion on two draft that they plan to file to grill the premier after laws calling for abolishing the increases. The from bird flu-hit nations February. Mutair warned on Tuesday that he minister reportedly told the panel that the draft plans to file to grill the prime minister after laws violated the constitution. national holidays end of February if the govern- MP Riyadh Al-Sane said yesterday that the KUWAIT: The Ministry of Commerce and sumers to obtain a receipt for all products ment does not resolve the problem of revoked government’s view that the draft laws violated MP Waleed Al-Tabtabaei Industry has placed a virtual ban on poultry purchased in order to preserve their rights, citizenship and abolish the rises in petrol prices the constitution is not obligatory to the assem- imports from nations with a reported out- adding that customers are encouraged to and electricity and water charges. bly and lawmakers have already made sure the ships without holding to account those respon- break of bird flu, including Germany, dial 135 in case of any infractions. The Many opposition MPs had vowed to stop the bills are legal. sible from the government is strengthening the Hungary, Japan and Denmark. The ministry Ministry of Commerce and Industry moni- increases in petrol prices and the planned rises image of the so-called “sheikhdom state” under noted in a statement yesterday that meat tors all commercial and economic activities in electricity and water charges. The issue was Revoked citizenships which citizenship is revoked and returned by products that have been heated at 70 in the country, in efforts to protect con- one of the most prominent topics during the Liberal MP Rakan Al-Nassef meanwhile reject- personal wishes. He said that the people whom degrees are fit for consumption. sumers from widespread deceit in the mar- November election campaign. ed moves to convince the government to return the government revoked their citizenship have Moreover, the statement urged con- ketplace. — KUNA revoked citizenships before declaring all facts filed lawsuits at courts and the government has Needed majority surrounding the sensitive issues, especially the so far refused to provide the judiciary with the MP Humoud Al-Hajeri meanwhile warned the rights of the people whose citizenship were reasons for its actions, which means that the Kuwaiti royal’s jail term government that the lawmakers opposed to the revoked to see the validity of the government government does not respect the judiciary or increases have the needed majority to scrap the decisions. does not have any reason for its action except upheld for insulting Amir decisions and advised the government to coop- The lawmaker said that returning the citizen- political motives.

KUWAIT: A Kuwaiti appeals court yesterday cution appealed. The charges related to upheld a three-year prison sentence for a video messages he posted on social media member of the ruling family on charges of in early 2015 in which he strongly criticized Bid to list Kuwait Towers insulting His Highness the Amir Sheikh the functioning of the government. Dozens Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and other royals of opposition activists have been jailed for in the Gulf state. Sheikh Abdullah Salem Al- similar offences in recent years. Sheikh Sabah was handed the jail term in Abdullah had previously been questioned as World Heritage Site September. Both he and the public prose- and detained in similar cases. —AFP By Meshaal Al-Enezi complexes and sites. It is currently visiting A number of lawmakers yesterday filed their Kuwait to assess historical Kuwaiti sites nominat- financial disclosure statements to a special team KUWAIT: Minister of Information and Minister of ed for listing on the World Heritage List. He from the Public Anti-Corruption Authority dis- Envoy, Costa Rica president State for Youth Affairs and the head of the added that the delegation will visit Kuwait six patched to the parliament to collect the state- National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters months later to make its final decision before ments, one day before the 60-day grace ends discuss promoting ties (NCCAL) Sheikh Salman Al-Humoud Al-Sabah submitting the file to be reviewed by the today. MP Adnan Abdulsamad hailed the anti- announced yesterday that a delegation from the UNESCO’s World heritage Committee members corruption initiative but remarked that it should NEW YORK: Means of developing and Otaibi noted that he told President International Council on Monuments and Sites pending final voting. “This first visit will focus on have been done earlier, especially since the promoting bilateral relations in several Solis about Kuwait’s hope to finalize and (ICOMOS) advisory panel was considering listing the Kuwait Towers,” he explained, noting that forms MPs have to fill need some explanation. “It fields were a focus of the meeting sign the agreement on encouragement Kuwait Towers on the World Heritage List. Sheikh besides the towers, other Kuwaiti sites include would have been better if the anti-corruption between Kuwait’s Permanent Delegate to and reciprocal protection of investments. Salman added that he had met with the delega- Failaka Island and Sheikh Abdullah Al-Jaber Al- authority had stationed its team in the parlia- the UN Ambassador Mansour Al-Otaibi He expressed Kuwait’s gratitude to Costa tion from ICOMOS, a global non-government Sabah’s palace. Sheikh Salman added that on ment throughout the grace period, because it is and Costa Rican President Luis Guillermo Rica for its support to the country’s bid to organization associated with UNESCO. Its mis- every visit, the delegation would make a full a new experience and requires some explana- Solis yesterday. obtain a UNSC membership during the sion is to promote the conservation, protection, report about the nominated site’s pros and cons tions,” he underlined. During the meeting, Otaibi conveyed UN General Assembly elections slated for use and enhancement of monuments, building so that shortfalls, if any, could be dealt with. MP Hamdan Al-Azmi said he intends to pro- the greetings of His Highness the Amir next June. pose a bill to include officials’ wives in the finan- Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- On visas, he said Solis voiced readi- cial disclosure statements as first-degree rela- Sabah to the Costa Rican leader. Otaibi, ness to sign some agreements, including tives. He also explained that some officials regis- who is a non-resident ambassador to granting entry visa exemption for the ter the ownership of all their possessions in Costa Rica, said in a statement that meet- two countries’ citizens. Meanwhile, Solis wives’ names to avoid legal accountability. ings held amongst senior officials of the lauded developed relations with Kuwait The anti-corruption verification committee two governments and visits by Kuwaiti and several cooperation agreements manager Saleh Al-Tunaib said that the team was parliamentary delegations to the capital, signed between the two sides. dispatched to the parliament to facilitate the San Jose, have contributed to enhancing In a separate meeting during his visit process for lawmakers as the 60-day grace they relations with Costa Rica. to Costa Rica, Otaibi held talks with min- had been given since assuming their positions He further added that the meeting ister of foreign trade Alexander Mora on on Nov 27, 2016 ends today. “This step came out between Kuwaiti First Deputy Prime means of promoting commercial ties of cooperation with the parliament’s secretariat Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh between Costa Rica and GCC member general,” he stressed, pointing out that several Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and states. The Kuwaiti envoy also discussed MPs had already checked in with the authority his Costa Rican counterpart Manuel with some officials at the foreign ministry over the past few days. He urged all MPs to file in Gonzalez in New York last September has ways of fostering cooperation and coor- their statements and called on those who would reflected the desire of the two countries dination on several issues on the agenda not be able to do so to check in at the authority to boost bilateral ties. of the UN. — KUNA headquarters today because nothing would be The Kuwait Towers accepted later. THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 LOCAL

Colours of Australia Student Art Competition extended until Feb 7 Sponsored by VIVA, ACK; hosted by Crowne Plaza Hotel

KUWAIT: Kuwait Times is pleased to announce that the Colours of Australia painting competition will be extended until February 7, 2017 due to the high volume of responses. “The response has been phenomenal and we are happy to extend the timing for the competition to allow more schools and stu- dents to participate,” explained Adnan Saad, Kuwait Times Deputy General Manager and the competition’s organizer. The competition, held in collaboration with the Australian Embassy in Kuwait, aims to encourage students to express their knowledge of Australia by drawing an icon, a landscape, Indigenous or any other expres- sion they would find suitable. The competi- tion is still open for all schools who want to participate. All schools are requested to deliver stu- dents’ drawings on or before February 7th at Kuwait Times offices in Industrial Shuwaikh. The competition is sponsored by VIVA and the Australian College of Kuwait (ACK), with a presentation event to be hosted at Crowne Plaza Hotel’s ‘Al-Thuraya City.’

Kuwaiti students visit sites in Cuba, Albania

HAVANA/TIRANA: Kuwaiti students, involved in a Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development’s (KFAED) students’ trip program, visit- ed one of the fund’s projects in the Cuban capital Havana. The stu- dents went Tuesday to a water plant project in which KFAED provid- ed a loan of KD 7.5 million. The project secured clean water resources to some 550,000 people living in 12 districts of the city. The students were accompanied by officials from the Cuban National Institute for Water Resources who briefed them on the inner workings of the plant. Students Gazi Al-Azmi, Jassem Yasr and Overweight Saad Al-Ajmi reflected their enthusiasm during their current trip. They affirmed that it was very important to know the history and moviegoers not culture of other nations to widen Kuwaiti students’ perspectives about the world. They also said they were proud to know that allowed at KFAED had a hand in helping other nations to develop their resources. Meanwhile, Kuwaiti students visited on Tuesday evening the 4DX halls Albanian city of Berat as part of their tour organized by Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED). The city, recognized by HAVANA: Kuwaiti students visit the site of a project funded by KFAED in Havana, Cuba. — KUNA By Nawara Fattahova the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as one of World Heritage Sites, was established 2,500 KUWAIT: If you weigh over 120 kg, you won’t be able years ago. to watch movies at the 4DX halls of Kuwait National The city, 120 kilometers from the capital Tirana, is also known for Cinema Company (KNCC). KNCC issued this regula- its buildings and the huge amount of windows in houses. The stu- tion at the new 4DX halls due to nature of the seats dents also went to Berat Castle, which hosts 24 towers and many at these halls at the Avenues and 360 malls. heritage locations, including what is known as the White Mosque, According to the company’s call center, these halls water bomb area, and more than 100 occupied houses. are equipped with moving seats that were designed Meanwhile, student Taraf Al-Falaji expressed in a statement her to work with people weighing up to 120 kg. “If the admiration for the castle and buildings in the city. Student Manar Al- person is obese, the seat won’t be able to move, Adwani, in a similar statement, praised such visits to ancient loca- which is the concept of this hall. The staff won’t tions and cultures, expressing admiration as well to all Islamic loca- weigh people at the entrance, but they can figure tions in Berat. On another note, student Asmaa Al-Ali expressed out if the person will fit in the seat or not, so they pleasure and satisfaction for the many beautiful natures, including won’t allow obese people to enter,” the customer care mountains and history that dates back to thousands of years. staff said. “If a customer bought a ticket online and The KFAED “be among the outstanding ones” students program was not allowed to watch the movie due to being began in 2010 as part of a cooperation between the Ministry of overweight, we won’t refund the ticket. The customer Education and KFAED. It involves the annual selection of a number will instead be able to watch any other movie of high achieving 11th grade students who are sent on accompa- screened in the regular halls,” she said. nied trips to see first-hand KFAED and Kuwaiti developmental con- tributions and efforts. — KUNA TIRANA: Kuwaiti students pose during a visit to the historic Berat city in Albania. LOCAL THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

In Brief Court adjourns US Dollar stable Kuwait oil price up

challenges case against KD at 0.304 KUWAIT: The price of Kuwaiti oil went up by 47 KUWAIT: The Constitutional Court has delayed KUWAIT: The rate of the US Dollar against cents to settle at $51.26 per barrel Tuesday, com- electoral challenges against vote results of the Fifth the Kuwaiti Dinar was stable at KD 0.304, pared to $50.79 pb the previous day, said Kuwait Constituency until February 13th. The court held the same case with euro which stood at Petroleum Corporation (KPC) yesterday. Globally, its first session on electoral challenges on the KD 0.327, said the Central Bank of the price increased due to data reports on the December 27 and has adjourned the session until Kuwait (CBK) yesterday. According to the decline of US oil reserves and the shrinking gap yesterday to look over the collective vote tallies in CBK, the Sterling Pound was stable at KD between supply and demand. The increase was the Fifth Constituency. Parliamentary elections 0.381 while the Swiss Franc went down to also attributed to reports on OPEC and non- were held on November 26th, where ten out of the KD 0.304. The Japanese Yen stood firm at OPEC members executing the production 50 winners represent each constituency. — KUNA KD 0.002. — KUNA decrease agreement earlier this year despite the increase in US Shale oil activities. — KUNA Photo of the day

KUWAIT: A photo of the Kuwait Museum of Modern Art. — KUNA photo Vietnam refinery up and running in July: KPI 100 gas stations powered by solar energy: KNPC

KUWAIT: Kuwait’s Vietnam Refinery will begin operating in July with a capacity of 2,000 barrels per day (BPD), CEO of Kuwait Petroleum International (KPI) Bakheet Al-Rashidi said yester- day. In a statement to the press on the sidelines of the third Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Energy Strategy Forum, Rashidi noted that KPI is currently test- ing the refinery’s equipment before activating the main units. Moreover, he added that the proj- ect is part of the company’s efforts to look into lucrative investments to boost its revenue and lure the global refining industry to do business with the company. On the status of KPI, Rashidi said that the company is a powerhouse in Europe, where it dis- tributes around 450,000 BPD. The forum will feature discussions over KUWAIT: Shukri Al-Mahrous, Deputy Chief Executive Office for Planning and developments in the global market Local Marketing at KNPC speaks during a seminar on Tuesday. — KUNA and its effects on Gulf nations, while aiming to promote regional invest- KNPC’s five-year plan included con- gy by the year 2030. ment in the energy sector. struction of these stations and devel- He said Kuwait Petroleum opment of new ones to shift them to Corporation (KPC), the parent compa- Solar power solar power. ny of state-owned oil companies, In the meantime, Kuwait National Speaking on sidelines of a seminar, sought to achieve this vision by the Petroleum Company plans to build 100 Mahrous said renewable energy proj- year 2020. He said renewable energy gas stations in the next five years to be ects would honor vision of His was already used in the gas stations in operated by solar power, a KNPC offi- Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- the areas of Riqqa and Zahraa. KNPC cial said Tuesday. Shukri Al-Mahrous, Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah which called has 45 locations in which solar projects Deputy Chief Executive Office for for providing 15 percent of Kuwait’s were held, including in refineries and Planning and Local Marketing, said electricity needs from renewable ener- head office, he noted. — KUNA Kuwait’s trade surplus with Japan down 45 percent

TOKYO: Kuwait’s trade surplus with Middle East’s trade surplus with in LNG import prices. Overall exports Japan plunged 45.0 percent from a Japan expanded by 10.6 percent to rose 5.4 percent from the year before, year earlier to JPY 28.9 billion ($254 JPY 453.2 billion ($4.0 billion) last buoyed by strong shipments of auto million) in December, shrinking for the month, with Japan-bound exports parts to the US and auto and electron- second month as exports declined, from the region falling 4.2 percent ics parts to China. Imports declined the Finance Ministry said yesterday. from a year earlier. Crude oil, refined 2.6 percent, with value of LNG falling But Kuwait maintained black ink with products, liquefied natural gas (LNG) nearly by a quarter. Japan for eight years and 11 months, and other natural resources, which In the full year 2016, Japan the ministry said in a preliminary accounted for 96.1 percent of the returned to a trade surplus in six years report. Kuwaiti overall exports to region’s total exports to Japan, at JPY 4.074 trillion ($35.8 billion), Japan fell 41.2 percent year-on-year to decreased 3.9 percent. The region’s thanks to lower energy prices and JPY 44.6 billion ($393 million) for the overall imports from Japan tumbled improved exports. Japan’s trade bal- second straight monthly drop, and 24.6 percent, chiefly due to weak ship- ance slipped into deficit after the 2011 imports from Japan also shrank 32.6 ments of automobile, machinery and Fukushima nuclear disaster caused by percent to JPY 15.7 billion ($139 mil- electric equipment. the earthquake-tsunami disaster, lion), down for the fourth month in a The world’s third-biggest economy which boosted fossil fuel imports for row. For the whole of 2016, Kuwait posted a global trade surplus of JPY conventional power generators. The posted a trade surplus of 276.8 billion 641.4 billion ($5.6 billion) in trade data are measured on a cus- ($2.4 billion), down 49.7 percent from December, marking a fourth straight toms-cleared basis before adjustment the previous year. month of black, reflecting a steep fall for seasonal factors. — KUNA THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 From the Arabic press

Crime Al-Jarida Report America comes first Drunk man assault ex-brother-in-law By Hassan Al-Essa merica First;’ those two words said by US KUWAIT: Hawally police arrested a drunk man who President Donald Trump in his inaugural speech assaulted his ex-brother-in-law at his workplace. ‘A were quoted by many major foreign newspa- Meanwhile, Jahra police arrested a citizen wanted over a pers. They simply mean prioritizing American interests KD 40,000 claim at Saad Al-Abdullah City. She was sent to over those of the rest of the world, as if this was new to concerned authorities. American policies and has never been a fact throughout the American history, particularly since US emerged as a major power by the end of World War I. ‘America First’ was Bootlegger caught the core of president Theodor Roosevelt’s ‘Big Stick for- Mubarak Al-Kabeer police arrested an Asian man eign diplomacy policy’ of ‘speak softly and carry a big who drove in the wrong direction in an attempt to Favoritism and stick’. It was the base of Monroe’s Doctrine, in warning escape from patrol officers. Police found 50 liquor bot- ancient European colonial countries; UK and France, that tles in his car. He was sent to concerned authorities. profiteering any intervention by external powers in America’s politics is potentially a hostile act against the US. Later on, the US Decision overruled intervened and toppled several regimes that showed The administrative appeals court overruled a decision rebellion against the American control. by Saad Al-Abdullah Security Science Academy for the aca- ‘America First’ was also the base of Eisenhower’s demic year 2015/2016 to exclude a student from being Doctrine for the Middle East, which in itself was an exten- accepted at the police college, and to re-register him fol- Budget sion of the Truman’s doctrine, by toppling the Iranian lowing a complaint filed on his behalf. Lawyer Sharyan Al- Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh, conspiring Sharyan said the student meets all admission conditions against Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser, the CEN- and was examined by a medical committee that decided TO Alliance, endless backup for Israel, disciplining Libya the student’s condition does not affect him from training during Ronald Regan’s presidency, intervening in Iraq and and that he is physically fit to carry out his job. Despite this, unlimited indirect support to Arab autocrat regimes he was excluded from being accepted at the Saad Al- Al-Anbaa against the possibilities of the Arab Spring expanding to Abdullah academy. The court said the administration did include them. I might not have enough space to explain not give any reasons for its decision although the court and define the meaning of America First and its impact gave it an opportunity to explain. But it did not present its on the American prevalence and intervention. defense nor submitted documents to answer the com- What scares European countries and China is that the plaint, which worked as evidence in favor of the student. US might go back to its historic isolation before World War II in terms of international economy, trade, globaliza- tion and reviving economic mandate wars through Child abuse Al-Anbaa imposing taxes and fees on US imports with the aim of A citizen took her minor son to Sabah Al-Salem supporting US industries and labor. America First also police station and told officers that he was sexually means spreading the spirit of nostalgia among the abused by an 18-year-old man. The prosecutor ordered Intisar Al-Sharrah American middle class white families, who were the driv- the arrest of the suspect and sent both to the juvenile ing power behind Trump’s victory and wish to move prosecution. things counter clockwise to the 1940s and 1950s; to and the government images from the romantic past as seen in old movies Vehicle stolen despite its irrelevance today, according to Anna Bloom in A Bangladeshi man reported his car was stolen at By Saad Al-Mo’tesh the Washington Post. Waha police station. He said the car was stolen on Jan 15 With the ‘America First’ slogan, president Trump vows and that he looked for it at the impounding garage to get rid of Islamic extremism, which was overwhelming- ll the scientific terms and expressions we use in punishable by a one-month imprisonment and/or a because policemen told him it is a 1999 model car and ly quoted by some of our newspapers. This slogan our daily life such as democracy, dictatorship KD 500 fine.’ Since the majority of the state’s budget may have been taken there by the interior ministry or ignores the ones actually responsible for creating such and bourgeoisie are originally Latin. People goes to payrolls, you cannot criticize the government municipality. — Translated from the Arabic press A extremism, as if it was 100 percent made by Arabs and have been using them to show off and give the and accuse it of being unfair or a failure if you get a Muslims without endless support from the Carter and impression that they are governmental salary. This Regan administrations to Jihadists’ struggle in well-educated and know would mean criticizing Afghanistan, where Regan called them ‘Freedom Fighters’ Bahrain Meditation Centre things more than others. yourself and your work then. Now, Trump will launch military campaigns against Yet, if you ask them about because you are a govern- announces 4th Int’l Self This would mean Islamic extremism but will ask Gulf Cooperation Council what such expressions ment employee and there is (GCC) states to pay the war’s bills regardless of their eco- Development Conference mean, you would laugh no difference between you nomic situations and the possibility of falling one after your heart out the way we and any minister or senior MANAMA: Under the patronage of Sheikh Khalid bin criticizing yourself another because of the fall in oil prices. There is nothing did while watching Kuwaiti official according to the Abdulla Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom about this coming war against extremism or policies that female comedian Intisar Al- warning placed in various of Bahrain, the Bahrain Meditation Centre for Self- nurtured and encouraged it in the first place and got Sharrah speak English in ministries. The only differ- Development will host its 4th conference ‘Creating and your work Arab states up to ears in religious sectarian wars. the classic comedy ‘Bye Bye ence would be your career Change’. This event will be held at the Bahrain Chamber of Reading between the lines and trying to understand London!’ ranks because the law does Commerce and Industry from 7th to 9th February 2017. what those two words actually mean, it seems that for One of those expres- not differentiate amongst The conference aims to empower individuals, organiza- because you are a the Middle East, in addition to rejecting Iran’s agreement sions people have been government employees. tions and communities to create a better future with confi- with Obama and seeking reasons to reactivate sanction using without even under- So, the government is dence, happiness and clarity. This will be achieved through against it, American First also means Israel First, and that standing its true meaning you, the employee in any the assistance of renowned international experts in the government employee by supporting more settlements, confiscating more Arab is ‘The Government.’ They ministry who delays doing field of self-development, healing and leadership. territories and moving the US embassy to Jerusalem, would even respond when transactions of another min- The ‘Creating Change’ Conference is all about navigating erasing the two-state dream in Palestine as well as put- asked about the meaning istry’s employee. It is the the waves and winds of change, discovering how to remain ting an end to US nominal opposition to the policy of of that term by saying ‘the government is the gov- teacher who is not dedicated enough and does not teach calm amidst chaos, and learning how to guide our confiscating lands in Palestine. Nothing calls for rejoicing ernment.’ students properly. Well, then. Can you criticize yourself thoughts, feelings and actions towards the most positive and pleasure in Trumps rein. Yet, things will, at least, be In all governmental establishments, one would find and show more dedication in doing your job’s duties outcomes. When we are able, amidst the outer waves of clearer about perceiving US policies in the region, that is a note stuck outside all doors with a warning that before criticizing others? change, to steer the self towards a safe and stable state of if any of our regimes are capable of such perception. mind, then we can effectively innovate and generate posi- reads: ‘Assaulting government employees on duty is —Translated by Kuwait Times —Translated by Kuwait Times tive change. Throughout the conference, the participants will be using the tool of meditation to help us develop a deeper understanding of the self. People have used meditation as Zain awarded Golden Medal for Excellence in a technique for thousands of years, to develop concentra- tion, regenerate inner power, attain self-mastery, and ulti- Corporate Sustainability on regional level mately initiate change for personal and world benefit. We invite you to join us for these few days of experien- tial learning from which you will emerge refreshed, rejuve- Awarded by the Arab Organization for Social Responsibility nated, powerful and ready for change. For more informa- tion please visit www.creatingchangebahrain.org or call KUWAIT: Zain, the leading telecommunica- and committing to being a more sustain- 00973 17712545. tions company in Kuwait, was proudly award- able organization”. ed with the Golden Medal for Excellence in Khashti added: “we at Zain believe that Corporate Sustainability on the Arab Region embracing the youth, supporting entrepre- level. The accolade came as part of the Arab neurship, and harnessing talents are all Organization for Social Responsibility’s 11th main foundations of achieving sustainabili- awards held recently in Dubai. ty. Our commitment to supporting projects The award, attained by Zain for the third and programs that cater to such founda- time, recognized the company’s series of tions is a testament of our responsibility social contributions and programs during towards our customers and the community the year 2016. The company’s long list of in which we operate”. initiatives and campaigns, which came in Khashti further stated that the initiatives line with its Corporate Sustainability and and social projects executed by the compa- Social Responsibility strategy, had a deep ny mirrors its commitment to achieving positive impact on the many sectors of the higher levels of transparency and account- community. The Arab Organization for ability to the society as well as its partners, Social Responsibility organizes this annual adding that Zain will seize any opportunity award to shed light on the leading experi- to renew its commitment to the most effec- ences in the fields of social responsibility tive social issues. across the Middle East region. The event is One of that main social causes Zain attended by prominent leaders and experts recently focused on catered to supporting representing a number of the leading CSR the relief of Syrian refugees and displaced company also sent a team of volunteer- the thermal insulation project, as well as players in the region, from both public and families. The company launched a humani- ing employees to aid Syrian refugees and visiting and distributing aid relief kits to private sectors. tarian campaign through which it collected displaced families in Lebanon as part of five different camps. Commenting on the award, Waleed Al- over 10.5 tons of donated clothes in collab- its ongoing humanitarian strategic part- It is worth mentioning that Zain’s Khashti, Zain’s Corporate Communications oration with Kuwait Society for Relief and nership with Kuwait Red Crescent social responsibility strategy focuses on and Relations Director said: “focusing on the Union of Kuwait University Students. Society (KRCS). conducting and supporting sound envi- sustainability has been and is always a key The campaign, launched by Zain for the The team visited multiple KRCS-sup- ronmental practices as well as participat- element of Zain’s overall success. This third consecutive year, aimed at supporting ported destinations to offer aid and sup- ing in environmental activities and aware- recognition we received today further Syrian refugees who are in urgent need of port, including the Lebanese Bakeries ness campaigns that reinforce the compa- highlights the steps the company took to clothes during the harsh winter conditions. project, Dar Al Zahra Hospital, Orange ny’s pioneering position locally and Sheikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa focus its efforts on supporting innovation As part of Zain’s aid to refugees, the Nassau hospital, the water plant project, regionally. — KUNA Horeca Kuwait 2017 takes steps forward in supporting youth: Anjeri KUWAIT: Leaders Group’s General supreme organizing committee was proved to be skillful and trustworthy Manager Nabila Al-Anjeri expressed keen on attracting young people to through working in media, supervi- her satisfaction with the success of participate in various activities during sion and security committees. “They the Horeca Kuwait 2017 exhibition, the event, including international were not only energetic, but also cre- saying that it was successful in nurtur- cooking competitions, in addition to ative,” she underlined urging all gov- ing Kuwaiti youth. Leaders Group allowing them to showcase their small ernment establishments to provide organized the event on January 16-18, and medium projects and take part in enough care and support for the 2017, at the Kuwait International volunteering activities. She added that youth “who are Kuwait’s future.” Fairground in Mishref, under the small projects entrepreneurs had won- Moreover, Anjeri underlined that patronage of Minister of Information derful experiences at the event, as Horeca 2017’s activities helped create and Minister of State for Youth Affairs they communicated with experts and new job opportunities, played a major Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem Al- company owners. role in diversifying sources of income Humoud Al-Sabah. Over 80 leading Further, Anjeri said the cooking and enhanced inter-companies’ coop- companies specializing in hospitality, competitions and cooking workshops eration, which would all help boost food industries, catering, hotel equip- held as part of the exhibition present- national economy. “Next year’s Horeca ment, tourism, shipment and energy ed great opportunities for the youth. Kuwait exhibition will witness more of took part in the event. She added that large groups of volun- such activities designed to support Anjeri added that the exhibition’s teers who took part in the event also the Kuwaiti youth,” she concluded. THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

Sexist, vulgar posts US faces stiff pushback from China in S China Sea on women’s marches

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WASHIGNTON: President Donald Trump shows off his signature on an executive order about the Dakota Access pipeline in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC. —AP Trump announces major voter fraud probe Trump to strengthen voting procedures

WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump tweeted Supreme Court ruling that “gutted” key sections of early yesterday that he is ordering a “major investi- the Voting Rights Act, particularly the provision gation” into voter fraud, revisiting unsubstantiated requiring southern states to get clearance in claims he’s made repeatedly about a rigged voting advance from the Justice Department before legis- 28 killed in Shabaab attack system. The investigation, he said, will look at lating changes in voting laws and procedures. those registered to vote in more than one state, Some Trump allies say he is justified in using “those who are illegal and even, those registered his platform to defend his standing. They point on Mogadishu hotel to vote who are dead (and many for a long time).” to Georgia Democratic Rep. John Lewis’ pre- Depending on results, Trump tweeted, “we will inauguration statement that he did not see fleeing. Gunfire rang out from the hotel government since the 1991 overthrow of strengthen up voting procedures!” Trump as a legitimate president, as well as US MOGADISHU: Twenty-eight people were as civilians and rescue workers carried president Siad Barre’s military regime, Trump has been fixated on his loss of the popu- intelligence agencies’ assessment that Russia killed yesterday when Al-Shabaab fighters away the injured. which ushered in more than two decades lar vote in the election and a concern that the meddled in the election in order to help Trump attacked a popular Mogadishu hotel, set- The Shabaab group claimed responsi- of anarchy and conflict in a country legitimacy of his presidency is being challenged by win. “Segments of his own government keep ting off two car bombs and opening fire bility in a statement distributed on its deeply divided along clan lines. The clan Democrats and the media, aides and associates driving this narrative,” said Roger Stone, a long- on security guards, according to the city’s Telegram messaging account. “The rivalries and lawlessness provided fertile say. Trump’s own attorneys dismissed claims of time confidant. “I don’t think it hurts to point it main ambulance service. The attack, mujahideen fighters have attacked a hotel ground for the Shabaab to take hold and voter fraud in a legal filing responding to Green out.” Key advisers in Trump’s inner circle concede claimed by the Al-Qaeda-aligned Shabaab and have managed to enter the hotel seize territory, frustrating efforts to set up Party candidate Jill Stein’s demand for a recount in the focus on crowd claims and alleged voter insurgents, began when a car loaded with after detonating a car loaded with explo- a central administration. Michigan late last year. “On what basis does Stein fraud have been a distraction. explosives rammed the gate of the Dayah sives,” it said. The Shabaab is fighting to After a series of transitional govern- seek to disenfranchise Michigan citizens? None After Friday’s inaugural festivities, the new pres- Hotel near the Somali parliament and overthrow the internationally-backed ments were formed abroad, a previous really, save for speculation,” the attorneys wrote. ident grew increasingly upset the next day by state house. Security sources said at least government of Somalia and regularly parliament was chosen by 135 clan eld- “All available evidence suggests that the 2016 gen- what he felt was “biased” media coverage of four gunmen then entered the compound stages deadly attacks on state, military ers and set up in Mogadishu in 2012. eral election was not tainted by fraud or mistake.” women’s marches across the globe protesting his and exchanged fire with security guards, and civilian targets in the capital and else- Somalis were promised a one-person, Secretaries of state across the country have dis- election, according to a person familiar with his but they were shot dead before reaching where in the war-torn country. one-vote election in 2016. But political missed Trump’s voter fraud claims as baseless. thinking. Trump was particularly enraged with the main building where guests were infighting and ongoing insecurity due to After the president’s morning tweets, Ohio CNN, which he thought was “gloating” by continu- staying. They were not counted among the presence of Shabaab meant Somalis Secretary of State Jon Husted wrote on Twitter, ally running photos of the women’s march along- the 28 dead. Election date set The attack-the deadliest so far in were handed a “limited” election, in “We conducted a review 4 years ago in Ohio & side the smaller crowds that attended his inaugu- A second massive blast went off after Somalia in 2017 — came shortly before which 14,025 specially picked delegates already have a statewide review of 2016 election ration the day before, according to this person, ambulances and journalists had already the country’s election commission voted for 275 parliamentary seats distrib- underway. Easy to vote, hard to cheat.” Trump’s one of several White House aides and associates rushed to the scene, leaving seven announced that a long-awaited presiden- uted according to clan. Another 72 seats exaggerations about inauguration crowds and who spoke on the condition of anonymity because reporters with minor injuries, according to tial vote would take place on Feb 8. The in a new upper house were shared out assertions about illegal balloting have been dis- they were not authorized to speak publicly about the National Union of Somali Journalists date has been pushed back numerous according to region. The 2016 process is tractions as advisers’ have tried to launch his presi- private conversations. (NUSOJ). They included an AFP photogra- times amid delays in a vote for lawmakers, seen as taking the country a step closer dency with a flurry of actions on the economy. Tuesday night on Twitter, Trump slammed CNN pher who suffered shrapnel wounds to his who were finally sworn in in late Dec. to a universal suffrage election now His spokesman, Sean Spicer, has twice stepped again, referring to the network as “FAKE NEWS shoulder and leg, an Associated Press Somalia has not had an effective central planned for 2020. —AFP into the fray himself, including on Tuesday, when @CNN” while praising rival Fox News Channel. photographer and a reporter working he doubled down on Trump’s false claim that he Trump has had a tumultuous relationship with the with Al-Jazeera television. “The number of lost the popular vote because 3 million to 5 million press, frequently calling the media dishonest and casualties we have recorded today is 28 people living in the US illegally cast ballots. All 50 insulting individual reporters by name at his rallies dead and 43 wounded. This is what we states and the District of Columbia have finalized and on Twitter. Still, two people close to Trump have confirmed with our teams but there their election results with no reports of the kind of said he expected his coverage to turn more favor- were also other ambulances which carried widespread fraud that Trump is alleging. “He able once he took office. Instead, he’s told people some casualties (but) I don’t know how believes what he believes based on the informa- he believes it’s gotten worse. many,” said Dr Abukadir Abdirahman tion he was provided,” said Spicer, who provided The bad press over the weekend has not Adem, head of the ambulance service. no evidence to back up the president’s statements. allowed Trump to “enjoy” the White House as he Somalia’s Security Minister Abdirisak If the president’s claim were true it would mark feels he deserves, according to one person who Omar Mohamed told reporters there the most significant election fraud in US history - has spoken with him. The result has been a full were 10 people killed and 51 wounded in and ironically, would raise the same questions display of Trump’s propensity for exaggeration the attack. “We commend the security about Trump’s legitimacy that he’s trying to avoid. and more. During an appearance at the CIA guards of the hotel who fiercely fought Rep. Elijah Cummings, ranking Democrat on the Saturday, he wrongly said the inaugural crowds the Shabaab attackers to defend the House Oversight and Government Reform gathered on the National Mall stretched to the hotel,” he said. AFP images showed securi- Committee, said yesterday his panel has already Washington Monument, despite clear photo evi- ty forces and civilians milling about out- sent letters to the attorneys general in all 50 states dence to the contrary. And during a reception side the devastated hotel-its windows asking for reports of any election irregularities. with lawmakers from both parties Monday night, and doors blown out-after the first explo- “The president can join me and my staff,” he repeated his false assertion that millions of sion, when a second car exploded with a Cummings said on MSNBC. He also said he wants illegal immigrants provided Hillary Clinton’s mar- massive blast, sending thick plumes of MOGADISHU: Somalis walk near the destroyed hotel and cars in Mogadishu, Congress to restore voting protections, citing a gin in the popular vote. —AP smoke into the air and sending people Somalia, yesterday. —AP INTERNATIONAL THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 S Sudanese activist facing deportation from Kenya

NAIROBI: A South Sudanese activist is being held Luak had been denied access to legal counsel and said Luak-who has publicly criticised human These include James Gatdet Dak, the main in Kenya and is facing deportation to his home was subject to a deportation order. Kenyan offi- rights abuses and corruption by South Sudanese spokesman for exiled opposition leader Riek country where he has received death threats and cials did not immediately respond to requests for government officials-was brutally attacked at his Machar, who was deported in November 2016 and could be arrested, Human Rights Watch said yes- comment. home in Nairobi in October 2015. HRW noted that arrested upon his arrival in Juba. He has been held terday. Prominent lawyer Dong Samuel Luak, who “Dong Samuel Luak has been a vocal advocate in recent years Kenya had “unlawfully deported without charge ever since, according to HRW. The fled to Kenya in August 2013 after receiving death for human rights in South Sudan for many years, several prominent opposition members from world’s youngest nation, South Sudan descended threats for defending a high-ranking politician and could face serious mistreatment if returned to neighboring countries to their countries of origin, into war in Dec 2013, two years after achieving accused of treason, was detained on Monday South Sudan,” said Leslie Lefkow, HRW’s deputy despite being recognized as refugees under independence, leaving tens of thousands dead according to the US-based rights body. HRW said Africa director, in a statement. The rights group Kenyan law.” and more than 3.1 million people displaced. —AFP Syria girl blogger, 7, appeals to Trump

ISTANBUL: Seven-year-old Syrian girl Bana At least 15,000 children are among the al-Abed, who came to international atten- more than 300,000 people who have been tion with her tweets giving a tragic killed in Syria’s six-year war between account of the war in Aleppo, has written President Bashar al-Assad’s regime and an open letter to new US President Donald rebel forces. Through her tragic descrip- Trump. In her letter Bana, who was evacu- tions of life in besieged Aleppo on her ated from the besieged city to Turkey in @AlabedBana Twitter account, Bana December, appealed to Trump to help the became a symbol of the tragedy unfolding children of Syria, the BBC reported Tuesday. in Syria, although the government had “I am part of the Syrian children who suf- slammed her and her mother’s nearly daily fered from the Syrian war,” she wrote, tweets as propaganda. according to a transcript of the letter her Turkey, which backs the Syrian rebels, is mother sent to the BBC. hosting some 2.7 million refugees from the She told Trump her school in Aleppo conflict. Syrian rebels and Assad’s govern- was destroyed by the bombing and some ment are holding peace talks in Kazakhstan of her friends had died. “Right now in but there have been no signs of a break- Turkey, I can go out and enjoy. I can go to through. Trump’s administration was invit- school although I didn’t yet. That is why ed to participate in the talks organized by peace is important for everyone including key players Russia, Turkey and Iran but did you. “However, millions of Syrian children not send a delegation. Trump’s spokesman are not like me right now and suffering in Sean Spicer said Monday that the new US different parts of Syria,” she wrote. “You president was open to conducting joint must do something for the children of operations with Russia to combat the Syria because they are like your children Islamic State group, who control significant and deserve peace like you.” territory in northern Syria. —AFP

MOSUL: Hassan al-Abbasi, a friend of the Riyadh family looks at the graves where his friend Abdelrahman Riyadh buried his parents and Six years after uprising, Sisi youngest brother in his grandfather’s garden after they were killed in a reported air strike on their house earlier this month in Mosul’s eastern Al-Zirai neighborhood. —AFP says Egypt on right track

CAIRO: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah continues to be held at a military hospi- As dust of war settles, east al-Sisi said yesterday that Egypt was “on tal on the outskirts of Cairo. the right track” six years after the upris- As on previous anniversaries, police ing that overthrew Hosni Mubarak. were out in Cairo yesterday to prevent Speaking in televised address commem- any gatherings during the national hol- Mosul buries its dead anew orating the revolution, Sisi called on iday, which before the revolution was young activists who took part in mass the country’s national police day. protests in 2011 to work for the coun- Critics have accused Sisi of cracking ‘Bodies buried in gardens, mosques’ try’s future. “An objective assessment of down on freedoms won during the developments in Egypt in recent years revolt since the former army chief top- makes clear that we are moving on the pled Islamist Mohamed Morsi, who was MOSUL: Abdulrahman Riyadh points to three the two surviving brothers had to settle on bury- Then a month or two later, when the neighbor- right track,” Sisi said. Addressing young elected as president following the rev- mounds of earth in a garden in eastern Mosul. ing their family in their grandfather’s garden, a hoods have been liberated and cleared, their rela- people who took part in the uprising, olution, in 2013. “That’s my father, that one’s my mother and next few blocks away. “Can you imagine this? In one tives come here to re-inter them.” Sisi said Egypt needed their “efforts” to Years of political turmoil-and an to it is my little brother.” “We buried them under day, I bid farewell to three members of my fami- He said some victims of the Mosul battle may continue on the “road of reform, con- Islamist insurgency that has killed hun- the orange trees,” said Abdulrahman, 18. Iraqi ly. I buried a part of my soul that day,” said even get a third burial. “In some cases the family struction and development.” dreds of soldiers and police since Morsi’s forces have in recent days completed their re- Adnan. Al-Zirai, which lies not far from the Tigris cemetery is on the other side of the city,” Jan 25 marks the anniversary of the overthrow-have taken a toll on Egypt’s conquest of eastern Mosul, a key step in the bat- River that divides the city of Mosul, is a leafy Mohammed said, referring to the west bank, day in 2011 when protesters began to economy. Sisi, whose government last tle to retake the country’s second city from the neighborhood of wide streets lined by palm which IS still fully controls. “That means that when gather in Cairo’s Tahrir Square demand- year secured a $12 billion loan from the Islamic State group. Many of those killed in the trees and large villas. It was relatively spared by the west side is cleared, they’ll move the bodies ing an end to longtime president International Monetary Fund (IMF), on fighting had to be hastily buried in improvised the fighting, as were large parts of east Mosul one more time,” said Mohammed. Tombstones Mubarak’s 30-year rule. For 18 days hun- Wednesday promised further efforts to plots-like Abdulrahman’s family-and now many where the continued presence of around half a stretched behind him as far as the eye could see dreds of thousands demonstrated in a revive the economy. “We will continue to residents are looking to hold proper reburials. million civilians limited all the warring parties in and his hands were covered in earth from another makeshift tent camp, denouncing social reform the economy, build massive Abdulrahman and his brother Adnan, who is their choice of weapons. day of relentless digging. “It used to be simple: inequalities, government corruption and development projects throughout two years older, were the only two survivors of when somebody died, you would bury him once. police abuse, and calling for democratic Egypt, support small and medium proj- what residents said was an air strike that Buried three times It’s weird, now people are buried twice, some- reforms. Under increasing pressure, ects, and improve the domestic and for- destroyed their home. At dawn on Jan 6, around The improvised burial site the Riyadh brothers times three times!” Mubarak resigned on February 11 and eign investment climate,” Sisi said. —AFP 20 people were killed in a strike that leveled three found for their family is a peaceful place but they In one of the cemetery’s narrow alleys, a van homes in Al-Zirai, an up market neighborhood of insisted they would re-inter the three bodies on pulled up in front of two gaping graves. A son eastern Mosul, according to the Riyadh brothers the west bank when it is rid of jihadists. Many of extracted the body of his father wrapped in a and other residents. “Everything collapsed around the victims of the offensive are being buried a blood-stained sheet, the acrid stench mixed with me,” said Abdulrahman. “I pushed the debris second time, now that some normalcy is return- the musty smell of wet soil. Relatives said the man New Turkey constitution around me, I got up and I asked my brother if he ing to the “liberated” east bank. Faleh was killed together with another civilian three was still alive. He was wounded in the leg.” “I told Mohammed, the gravedigger at the Gogjali weeks ago when a mortar shell ploughed into bill submitted to Erdogan him to come into my bed and I started looking for cemetery on the eastern edge of Mosul, said he their neighborhood. “Burying them once was my little brother, my father and my mother. I had recently been witnessing as many as 10 hard enough, but a second time it’s even worse,” ANKARA: A bill to expand Turkish President Election Council (YSK). “I think it will be in screamed but nobody answered.” reburials a day. “During the fighting, there are Raad Hassan, a friend of the family, said as an Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s powers has been the first half of April, a suitable date would Because the fighting was ongoing in the area, people who were buried in gardens, in mosques. imam gave the victims their last rites.—AFP submitted to the head of state for his be up until the 20th of April.” The changes approval ahead of a referendum possibly in would give the head of state the power to April, the prime minister said yesterday. appoint and dismiss ministers. There would Erdogan’s signature would be the final be no longer a prime minister but instead executive step in the adoption of the con- one or more vice presidents. Turkish offi- troversial bill ahead of the referendum, a cials have dismissed concerns over the leg- date for which Prime Minister Binali Yildirim islation, saying the changes are needed to said would be announced this week. bring in effective government in a system Parliament approved on Saturday a new similar to the United States or France. 18-article constitution, which would create The ruling Justice and Development an executive presidency for the first time in Party (AKP) has only 317 seats in the 550- Turkey, in the final of two readings. Brawls seat parliament and sought the support of erupted in parliament during debates over the far-right Nationalist Movement Party the changes to the constitution, which crit- (MHP) to pass the bill in two readings earli- ics fear will lead to one-man rule. Yildirim er this month. But Yildirim insisted there told provincial ruling party chiefs in a tele- would be no “joint campaign” with the vised speech in Ankara that Erdogan would MHP to get a “Yes” vote for the changes. He sign the bill and the approval would be defended the bill, saying MPs’ powers published in the Official Gazette. would be “strengthened” and that they There would be a 60-day period before would still have the right to bring draft the referendum. Yildirim did not say when laws to parliament. While Yildirim was the bill would be signed by Erdogan, who speaking the lira plunged to 3.82 against is currently in Africa. Yildirim said the date the US dollar, a loss of over one percent on for the plebiscite was expected to be the day, amid fears of continued political announced this week by the Supreme instability. —AFP

MOSUL: Civilians flee their neighborhoods due to fighting between Iraqi security forces and Islamic State militants, in eastern Mosul, Iraq, yesterday. —AP Hundreds of families leave Iraq camps for Mosul return

KHAZIR, Iraq: Hundreds of families who fled The authorities have been organizing Khader, a 45-year-old woman from the neigh- Mosul last year left displacement camps yester- returns from Khazir and Hasansham displace- borhood of Al-Zahraa who was about to day to head back to their homes, in the biggest ment camps twice a week. “We are now tak- return to her home with two of her sons. “I’m wave yet of returns to the city, officials said. ing 500 families, which means 2,700 people, so happy we finally got rid of Daesh,” she said, Iraqi forces recently completed their recapture to their liberated houses,” local official using an Arabic acronym for IS. “We can go of eastern Mosul, which tens of thousands of Mustafa Hamid Sarhan said at the Khazir back home now,” said the woman, tears run- people had fled since the Oct 17 start of a mas- camp, which lies southeast of Mosul. “This is ning down her wrinkled face. The continued sive offensive against the Islamic State group. the biggest wave,” he added, as at least 50 presence in east Mosul of hundreds of civil- According to the United Nations, more than buses lined up for families cleaning up their ians as Iraqi forces advanced through the 180,000 people have been displaced since the tents and packing their belongings for the streets has restricted all sides in their choice ANKARA: Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim looks on during the 115th enlarged start of the offensive but at least 22,000 have journey home. of weapons and the city has suffered relative- meeting of provincial chairmen of Justice and Development Party (AKP) at the AK since returned to their homes. One of them was Dhabbah Mohammed ly limited destruction. —AFP Party’s headquarters in Ankara, yesterday. —AFP THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 INTERNATIONAL Trump eyeing three judges for Supreme Court vacancy

WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump is on the Trump to choose one instead of the others, said Leonard Leo, a conservative lawyer who has been verge of nominating a Supreme Court justice who John Malcolm, a senior lawyer at the conservative advising Trump on the filling the vacancy. Of the could serve until the middle of the century. Trump Heritage Foundation. “He’s got to feel comfortable three leading candidates, only Pryor faced signifi- said Tuesday he expects to make a decision in the with the guy. It’s a part of his legacy, a very impor- cant opposition when nominated to the appeals coming days and announce it next week. A person tant part of his legacy,” Malcolm said. court. Senate Democrats refused to allow a vote on familiar with the process said the president has nar- Justices often serve for decades after the presi- his nomination, leading Bush initially to give Pryor rowed his choice to three federal appellate judges dent has chosen them leaves office. The longest a temporary recess appointment. ranging in age from 49 to 54. They all were on the serving justice currently on the bench, Anthony In 2005, the Senate confirmed him 53-45, after list of 21 potential high court picks Trump Kennedy, was a Ronald Reagan appointee who senators reached an agreement to curtail delaying announced during his presidential campaign. joined the court in 1988. Democrats and liberal inter- tactics for appellate judgeships. Gorsuch was The leading contenders - who all have met with est groups, fuming over the Republican refusal to approved by a voice vote in 2006. Schumer and Trump - are William Pryor, Neil Gorsuch and Thomas consider Obama’s nomination of Judge Merrick Feinstein were among the 95 senators who voted Hardiman, the person said, speaking anonymously Garland to the court, are ready to fight any Trump for Hardiman’s confirmation in 2007. Hardiman is a because he was not authorized to speak publicly nominee who is “outside the mainstream,” Senate colleague of Trump’s sister, Judge Maryanne Trump about internal decisions. Pryor, 54, is an Alabama- Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said after a White Barry. Pryor has a reputation as staunch conserva- based judge on the 11th US Circuit Court of WASHINGTON: In this photo, Judge Thomas House meeting about the court vacancy Tuesday. tive with a taste for academic rigor. He once called Appeals. Gorsuch, 49, is on the Denver-based 10th Hardiman, federal judge on the US Court of the landmark 1973 decision legalizing abortion the US Circuit Court of Appeals. Hardiman, 51, is based Appeals for the Third Circuit is seen in Worst abomination “worst abomination in the history of constitutional in Pittsburgh for the 3rd US Circuit Court of Washington. — AP Conservatives said the contenders all share law.” As Alabama attorney general, he also angered Appeals. All three were nominated by President Scalia’s commitment to the text and meaning of some conservatives for urging a judicial discipline George W. Bush for their current posts. Court for more than 29 years. Senate Republicans the Constitution. “These are not stealth candidates. panel to remove Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore Trump has promised to seek someone in the prevented President Barack Obama from filling the Their records are there for everyone to see and to from office after he refused to obey a court order mold of conservative icon Antonin Scalia, who died seat, a political gamble that paid off when Trump understand. Their judicial philosophy is well within take down a Ten Commandments monument from nearly a year ago after serving on the Supreme was elected. It’s hard to know what might persuade the mainstream of American legal thought,” said the lobby of the state judicial building. —AP

When will soggy California drop water restrictions

FRESNO, California: Much of California has er last year, drought conditions eased, gone from withered to water-logged this prompting regulators to relax restrictions. winter, but the state’s top water regulator is But Quinn said maintaining the state’s emer- not ready to lift emergency conservation gency declaration gives water regulators measures enacted during the height of the extraordinary authority to require cutbacks drought. “It makes the most sense to contin- from districts even if they have ample sup- ue steady as she goes,” State Water plies. Water districts fear losing the public’s Resources Control Board chairwoman Felicia trust, he said. Marcus told The Associated Press after the latest in a series of storms brought more Problem not solved snow to the mountains and record-breaking This year has been wetter than usual for rainfall to parts of Southern California. almost all of California. The Sierra Nevada Marcus and the other four board mem- snowpack that supplies much of the state’s bers will decide Feb 7 whether to extend water contains nearly double its average measures requiring local water districts to water content and Los Angeles already enforce conservation rules, provide monthly received a full year’s worth of precipitation reports on water usage and show they have in a few rainy weeks. But water experts say a three-year water supply. January typically what’s happening above ground does not is the wettest month in California. Marcus provide a full water picture. California’s said in interviews this week that she is con- underground supplies remain far below nor- cerned that subsequent months could turn mal. In some areas of California’s vast agri- out dry and that California could again be cultural heartland called the San Joaquin forced to scramble to save water if the Valley, domestic wells have run dry and the restrictions are not kept in place. land is sinking at an alarming pace as Water districts have been lobbying the aquifers collapse. board to back down. They say they are com- “Just because we get a bunch of rain mitted to conservation and better posi- today doesn’t mean it solved our problem,” NORTH CAROLINA: Protestors march past the Civil Rights Museum during the Triad NC Womenís March in Greensboro, North Carolina. —AP tioned than the state to ensure residents do said Mike Maggiora of Maggiora Bros. not return to old habits. “We do strongly Drilling Inc. Firms like his have been drilling object to doing this under the banner of a wells as deep as 2,000 feet to hit water drought emergency that everybody sees no depending on the region, and Maggiora longer exists,” said Tim Quinn, executive said it could take many more years to get Sexist, vulgar posts director of the Association of California back to pre-drought drilling levels. Water Agencies, a group representing water Regardless of any action regulators take in districts serving 6 million of California’s near- February, state officials are moving to per- ly 40 million residents. Local water agencies manently ban water wasting habits such as plan for dry spells, he said, and many have spraying sidewalks with hoses, running on women’s marches invested many millions of dollars into sprinklers within 48 hours after measurable shoring up reserve water supplies. rainfall and washing cars using hoses that California has endured more than five do not have turn-off nozzles Fresno resi- Officials reprimanded over social media postings years of drought. In Jan 2014, Gov Jerry dents Joe and Lisa Libby last year did their Brown declared an emergency, later order- part to conserve water, tearing out their INDIANAPOLIS: A school board member in vehicle to communicate.” He added: “We’re elect- he “ever engaged in any kind of sexist, racist or ing residents statewide to cut water use by grassy front lawn and replacing it with Hillary Clinton’s hometown resigned after making ed officials, we’re held to a higher standard.” even homophobic hate speeches in his class- 25 percent - the first mandate of its kind in drought-friendly Mediterranean plants on a derogatory reference on Twitter to the female On Monday, Dathan Paterno, a school board room.” A person who answered the phone at a the state’s history. With more normal weath- layers of bark. —AP anatomy in describing women marching against member in Park Ridge, Illinois, where Hillary number listed to Kaczmarek declined to com- President Donald Trump. An Illinois teacher was Clinton grew up, abruptly resigned after he called ment. In Nebraska, a re-tweet of an offensive joke pulled from the classroom for a tweet deemed the protests a “farce” by “vagina screechers” on may be the final straw for state Sen. Bill Kintner, sexist. And a freshman Indiana lawmaker was Twitter. Paterno, who did not respond to a who admitted last year to having cybersex on a inundated with criticism over a Facebook post request for comment, later deleted his social state computer with a woman who later tried to mocking “fat women.” These are a handful of media accounts, said district Superintendent blackmail him. examples from across the US of mostly male pub- Laurie Heinz. He wrote in his letter of resignation The Republican’s colleagues yesterday will lic officials who have been reprimanded, called that the tweets were “understandably misinter- debate whether to expel him after he re-tweeted out or disciplined over social media postings preted.” In the Quad Cities, along Illinois’ western a joke implying that three women’s march about the women’s marches around the globe border, a teacher was “removed from the class- demonstrators were too unattractive to sexually last weekend. room” for posting a view of women that “does not assault. Other incidents were reported in The rash of incidents, which range from boor- reflect the values” of the school, district officials Mississippi, Rhode Island and New Mexico. ish to downright vulgar, highlight how nasty said in a statement. Cornfield, the political science professor, said that political discourse has become since the divisive The teacher, Mark Kaczmarek, tweeted a photo he thought most people learned the lesson about presidential election. But in an era when Trump of a 1950s housewife, and commented that the crossing the line in social media posts years ago made lashing out against “political correctness” protesters “all went home to make dinner.” One during the early days of email. “I guess now that central to his appeal, the consequences these offi- online petition called his tweet “unacceptable” we’ve elected the real Donald Trump some peo- cials face for unfiltered use of social media once while a rival petition said there is “no proof” that ple need reminders,” he said. — AP again demonstrate that what you say on the internet still can hurt you. “Very few people in public life, even today, get away with what Trump CALIFORNIA: Dennis Rogers stands next to a flooded trail along Los Gatos Creek was able to get away with,” said Michael Cornfield, Haitians face deportation as after a series of storms in Los Gatos, California. —AP a George Washington University professor who studies politics in the internet age. “I wonder what 2010 quake reprieve expires these gentlemen were thinking.” While Trump stresses military, It’s not the first time ranting on social media MIAMI: Bernedy Prosper is afraid his 23-year- the earthquake-some 55,000 people still live have sparked backlash. Public officials for years old son Harold will die if he is deported from in temporary housing, most in appalling con- Asian allies seek trade, too have found themselves in trouble, and even the United States back to Haiti. Prosper, 52, ditions. But late last year, Obama decided resigned from office, over comments that were had hoped Harold could benefit from a special Haitians no longer qualified for Temporary WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump’s he may find US credibility significantly dent- impolitic, distasteful and sometimes even racist. status granted to Haitian immigrants in 2010 Protection Status (TPS), as the status reserved “peace through strength” could mean more ed after pulling out of a deal that took years It’s also not strictly a partisan issue. A writer for after a devastating earthquake struck the for victims of natural disasters is known. “The US military power in Asia, reassuring allies to negotiate. “Losing the United States from “Saturday Night Live” was suspended this week impoverished Caribbean nation. Instead, situation in Haiti has improved sufficiently to about America’s resolve to counter China. the TPP is a big loss, there is no question after writing an offensive tweet about Trump’s 10- Harold is one of more than 4,000 Haitians permit the US government to remove Haitian That is, if they’re still looking to Washington about that,” Australian Prime Minister yearold son Barron. The writer, Katie Rich, deleted awaiting deportation due to a sudden policy nationals on a more regular basis, consistent for reassurance. Trump called his speedy Turnbull told reporters, trying to salvage the the tweet, briefly deactivated her account and reversal late last year as then-president Barack with the practice for nationals from other withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific deal without Washington. “But we are not then apologized after a social media outcry led to Obama was preparing to leave office. nations,” said then-Homeland Security Partnership a victory for American workers about to walk away from our commitment to calls for a boycott of the show. With President Donald Trump now in pow- Secretary Jeh Johnson in announcing the poli- hurt by multilateral trade pacts. But his rever- Australian jobs.” Still, the number of incidents following the er, elected on a vow to build a wall on the cy change Sept 22. sal of years of US-led efforts may mean the women’s marches, which packed public squares Mexican border and halt illegal immigration, A few weeks later, on October 4, Hurricane loss of Asian nations’ trust and support in Priorities in blue states and some red as well, has put a few Harold’s situation looks bleak. “I ran away for Matthew tore through southwestern Haiti. The confronting an increasingly assertive Beijing On bilateral deals replacing TPP, New elected officials and supervisors in an awkward my life and now my kid had to do the same,” powerful Category 4 hurricane killed more after many of them, under Washington’s Zealand Prime Minister Bill English said, spot. And it’s not clear where to draw the line. In said a despairing Prosper as he stood in an than 500 people, left thousands homeless, and pressure, barreled through similar domestic “there’s a pretty low chance of that happen- Indiana, Republican House Speaker Brian Bosma immigration aid center in Little Haiti, the heart triggered a cholera outbreak. US authorities concerns over jobs and competition. ing in a form that we’d find satisfactory.” says he’s conducting social media tutorials after of the Haitian diaspora in dilapidated north halted deportations for a month, but in early And a weakened partnership with East Governments’ calculus would be different in posts from at least two state lawmakers. A week- Miami. Prosper himself arrived in Florida on a November began to “significantly expand Asia’s key commercial powers could have a one-on-one negotiation. Japan, for exam- end Facebook post by Indiana state Rep. Jim boat without immigration documents in 2000 removal operations,” Johnson said in a subse- wide-ranging consequences for Americans, ple, may have less interest in opening up its Lucas, a Republican, showed a photo of a woman and obtained political asylum. quent statement. Randy McGrorty, an attorney beyond them missing out on the trade pact’s agriculture and automobile sectors to sprayed in the face with pepper spray with a cap- He tried to bring his son over to join him, with Catholic Legal Services-a group that potential for lower prices and additional American competition. Vietnam may balk at tion that read: “Participation trophies. Now in liq- but Harold got tired of waiting for the legal offers legal aid for immigrants-says it is inhu- jobs. “It’s not as if we can send a bunch of demands to allow independent trade uid form.” process to run its course, and decided to try mane to deport Haitians to their storm-rav- ships and be protectionist at the same time,” unions. And instead of new deals that better his luck crossing the Mexican border illegally. aged, earthquake-damaged country. said Sheila Smith, an expert on Japan at the advantage American workers, as Trump has No proof Instead he was caught in San Diego, California, The TPS will remain in effect until July, and Council on Foreign Relations. Asians don’t vowed, the result could be a regional shift to Another post by newly elected Indiana state just as deportations of Haitians are ramping Haitians who are already protected do not risk see economics and military power as sepa- an alternative, Chinese-backed trade pact Sen. Jack Sandlin, also a Republican, credited up dramatically compared to last January deportation.But since October more than rate, she said, and flexing US muscles with promising more access to the world’s Donald Trump with getting “more fat women out when, according to government figures, only 1,600 other Haitians have been deported. “We Navy boats and other assets while retrench- biggest consumer market. walking than (former first lady) Michelle Obama 267 Haitians were awaiting deportation. “I get desperate phone calls from people. ing on free trade “just won’t translate into “Every country that went through the did in 8 years.” Sandlin, who says he didn’t know- believe that if he is put back to Haiti, I have no Unfortunately there’s nothing we can do,” said American influence.” process of TPP had to do politically difficult ingly share the since-deleted post, was inundated more son,” said Prosper, his head down and Steve Forester, who works for the non-profit The 12-nation trade agreement was the things at home,” said Vikram Singh at the with criticism on his Facebook page and has apol- voice a low monotone. “I know they will kill Institute for Justice and Democracy in Haiti. “It centerpiece of President Barack Obama’s Center for American Progress. Trump’s with- ogized. He says the incident was a powerful les- him,” he said. is simply wrong, insensitive, immoral, even outreach to Asia, cutting tariffs and setting drawal “shows he cares not a whit about son on the “unintended consequences” of open- obscene, to be deporting people now, know- new environmental and labor standards in what counterparts in the Asia-Pacific have ing up “your social media to try to get it out as Haiti has improved ing the suffering of the people there and that countries representing about 40 percent of done to push forward with what was a top broadly as you can.” Bosma partially blamed “the Haiti is the poorest country in the western the government does not have the ability in the global economy. While Trump said he US political priority,” added Singh, a former Twitter storm created by our president” which he hemisphere, and has not fully recovered from Haiti to care for these people,” he said. —AFP wants to pursue bilateral trade deals instead, Obama administration official. —AP said “makes people feel this is an appropriate THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 INTERNATIONAL Germany raids over plot to attack refugees, Jews

BERLIN: German authorities yesterday carried state, asylum seekers and members of the Jewish But news agency DPA said the group was The Reichsbuerger group does not recognize out dawn raids against far-right suspects community”. believed to belong to the “Reichsbuerger” the legitimacy of the German republic and accused of plotting attacks on refugees, Jews Another seven people are believed to have (Citizens of the Reich) movement, a shadowy far- believes in the continued existence of the and police, federal prosecutors said. Police offered assistance to the group including acquir- right outfit blamed for shooting dead one police German empire or “Reich.” As a result, many mem- swooped on 12 homes and other sites in six ing weapons. “The aim of today’s raids is to gath- officer and wounding three others during a raid bers refuse to pay taxes and fines owed to the states “as part of a federal investigation on suspi- er evidence of the formation of a group as well as in the southern town of Georgensgmuend in state. Authorities believe the movement has sev- cion of forming a right-wing extremist organiza- suspected crimes and potential material for use October. And in August, a member of the group-a eral thousand members. A report yesterday in tion,” the prosecutor’s office said in a statement. in those crimes,” it said. “There is not as yet any former Mister Germany pageant winner-opened Berlin’s daily Tagesspiegel newspaper citing secu- Six suspects, “connected primarily via social evidence of specific attack plans.” Around 200 fire on police carrying out an eviction order at his rity sources said that the number of far-right media”, are accused of founding the group “and police officers took part in the coordinated raids. house in the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt. The extremists in Germany believed to be violent had in early 2016 beginning plans for armed attacks The prosecutor’s office in the southwestern city 41-year-old gunman was seriously wounded and increased to 12,100 last year, up from 11,800 the against police officers as representatives of the of Karlsruhe declined to provide further details. three police officers suffered light injuries. previous year. —AFP

France’s Fillon pressured to explain wife’s work

PARIS: French presidential frontrunner Unpredictable race Francois Fillon criticized a campaign of The election in April and May is seen as “mudslinging” yesterday as he came under highly unpredictable, with Fillon, the far- pressure over allegations he employed his right leader Marine Le Pen, 39-year-old cen- wife as a parliamentary aide for more than trist independent Emmanuel Macron and a decade. The Canard Enchaine newspaper, others in a large field of candidates. Le Pen, which mixes satire and serious investigative whose party is embroiled in its own scandal reporting, alleged Tuesday that British-born about the use of public funds in the Penelope Fillon had been paid from money European parliament, declined to attack available to her husband as a longstanding Fillon over the issue when asked on Europe 1 MP for the northern Sarthe region. radio yesterday morning. The Socialist party The newspaper alleged that she had is set to finalize its presidential candidate this earned around 500,000 euros ($538,000) Sunday, with former PM Valls up against left- over three periods, but said its reporters ist ex-education minister Benoit Hamon, had not been able to find witnesses to her who is seen as the frontrunner. work. “I see that the mudslinging season The two will go head-to-head in a tele- has started,” Fillon told reporters during a vised debate later Wednesday during which campaign event in Bordeaux. “I won’t com- probity in public life might be a subject in ment because there is nothing to com- light of the Fillon revelations. Citing pay ment on and I would like to say that I am slips, the Canard Enchaine said Penelope, outraged by the disdain and misogyny in nicknamed “Penny”, was paid from 1998 to this article.” Fillon’s spokesman Thierry 2002 from funds intended for parliamentary Solere confirmed on Tuesday that assistants. From 2002 to 2007, when Fillon Penelope had worked for her husband, an took up a cabinet post under then presi- arrangement he said was “common” dent Jacques Chirac, she became an assis- among French MPs. tant to the man who carried out Fillon’s par- Hiring family members is not against the liamentary duties in his place, earning rules as long as the person is genuinely 6,900-7,900 euros per month. employed, but attention is focused on what The paper said Penelope was again paid work Penelope carried out for a salary of “for at least six months” in 2012 when Fillon, sometimes around 7,000 euros a month. then prime minister, left government after Penelope has taken a low-profile in Fillon’s the defeat of Sarkozy in elections. The paper ALGIERS: A general view shows the Carriere-Jaubert neighborhood, one of the oldest suburbs on the northern outskirts of the capital Algiers, nearly four-decade political career, focus- also says that Penelope Fillon was paid known for its gang violence. —AFP ing on bringing up the couple’s five chil- around 5,000 euros a month between May dren at their chateau in the Sarthe region. 2012 and December 2013 by a periodical, The 62-year-old candidate, who served as Revue des Deux Mondes, which is owned prime minister under former president by a friend of Fillon. Fillon told a television Gang violence on the rise Nicolas Sarkozy, has run a campaign prom- interviewer in November that Penelope had ising radical economic reforms and the pro- brought up their first four children while he tection of French culture. was in Paris as an MP, but she had helped on edges of Algerian cities “It’s up to him to explain himself,” him with some of his political duties. Socialist party presidential candidate “She was very involved in the cam- Manuel Valls told France Inter radio yester- paigns, handing out flyers and attending Towns built without territorial logic day. “You can’t say you’re the candidate of meetings with me,” he said. But Penelope honesty and transparency and not be able also told Britain’s Sunday Telegraph after to respond to these issues.” Other oppo- her husband became prime minister in ALGIERS: Tired of living in fear of gang violence, they have become marginalized communities its budget, forcing Algiers to raise taxes on basic nents highlighted how Fillon frequently 2007 that she was uneasy in Paris and Karima and her children left the drab satellite where gang violence is common, he said. goods. On top of that, youth unemployment hit rails against the bloated French state and preferred looking after her children and town of Ali Mendjeli near Constantine in north- Professor Rachid Belhadj, head of Forensic 26.7 percent in September 2016, according to wasteful public spending, which he plans horses in the countryside. “I’m just a coun- east Algeria to seek refuge with in-laws. The 45- Medicine at the Mustapha Bacha University official figures, in a country where a quarter of to tackle by cutting 500,000 civil servants try peasant, this is not my natural habitat,” year-old mother of three, who asked not to give Hospital Centre in Algiers, labels them “ghettos” the population is aged between 15 and 29. if elected. she joked. —AFP her surname, said living with in-laws is far from where violence is growing “like a cancer.” Economic woes have pushed many young ideal but it beats the anxiety of daily life in her “Violence was already there, but its use by people into drug trafficking and kidnapping, former home where rival gangs battle it out organized gangs is what worries us,” he said. said sociologist Fatma Oussedik of the University with knives and swords. “I was afraid they would Belhadj, whose centre examines victims of vio- of Algiers. “But the fundamental link that unites attack my children,” she said. “I have two lence to verify their claims before they complain them is insecurity... which places them outside teenagers and I feared it would end badly.” to police, said the number of people using his of society,” pushing them into crime, she said. Experts say urban violence is on the rise due to services has leapt from 2,500 to 6,000 per year in “What scares us is that they turn to organized social insecurity, traumatic memories of a decade. No official statistics on crime rates are gangs for racketeering and bank robberies,” said Algeria’s civil war in the 1990s and the mush- available, but Interior Minister Noureddine Belhadj. “For the moment, it is sporadic but it rooming of deprived towns like Ali Mendjeli on Bedoui has said the relocation of slum dwellers becomes a way of dealing with the crisis.” Some the edges of major cities. to the new towns has “caused friction between experts link the rising violence to the civil war Algeria’s population has shot up from nine young people.” As for Karima, she feared her chil- between the government and armed Islamist million when it won independence from France dren would end up taking drugs and dropping groups in the 1990s that killed 200,000 people. in 1962 to more than 40 million in 2016. The out of school. Algerians born at the start of the war are demographic boom and rapid migration from now in their mid-20s and many witnessed the countryside to cities created an acute hous- Economic woes extreme violence during childhood. That has ing shortage. In 2000, the government launched Unlike many countries in the region, including left “a profound trauma in the population that a program to build two million homes by 2019. its neighbors Libya and Tunisia, Algeria has been has not yet been adequately addressed”, the UN But new towns like Ali Mendjeli have been built relatively stable since the 2011 Arab Spring upris- special rapporteur on the right to health, “without any territorial and environmental logic”, ings. High oil revenues allowed it to massively Dainius Puras, said during a visit to Algiers last said Nadir Djermoune, a professor of architec- increase wages and subsidies, helping it weather year. “While the number of suicides is declining, FRANCE: Right-wing candidate for the upcoming presidential election Francois ture at the University of Blida, southwest of the unrest that shook other parts of the region. violence against oneself has turned into vio- Fillon and Bordeaux’s mayor Alain Juppe (left) toast in a restaurant, yesterday in Algiers. Rather than becoming urban spaces, But the 2014 collapse in crude oil prices has hit lence against others,” he said. —AFP Bordeaux, as part of Fillon’s campaign visit. — AFP May meets Trump with Pope axes Knights chief in condoms row

eye on Brexit future VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis has ended a bitter being sidelined from more important roles by Order’s involvement as soon as he became dispute with the Knights of Malta by obtaining Francis. Others said the issue was whether the aware of it and refused to resign. Burke report- LONDON: Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa second female prime minister after the resignation of the ancient order’s top offi- Vatican was properly kept in the loop and edly insisted he had to go. May will this week be the first foreign Margaret Thatcher, told the BBC. cial in a saga linked to a row over condoms. whether Von Boeselager, who has a brother who leader to meet with Donald Trump since The resignation of Grand Master Matthew is said to be close to Francis, was wrongly Rebel cardinal his inauguration, aiming to discuss a key Early trade talks? Festing, confirmed by the order yesterday, fol- informed the pope had approved his sacking. Conservatives say any use of condoms vio- post-Brexit trade deal with the US. The vis- May flies to the United States today, lows a month-long stand-off that had become Burke is a prominent conservative figure who lates Church teaching that considers all forms it has been presented as a diplomatic meeting Republican leaders in a test of the reforming pope’s authority over has been outspoken in his criticism of Francis’s of contraception to be an unacceptable barrier coup in Britain, where the idea of the “spe- Philadelphia before heading to rebellious Church conservatives. “The Grand efforts to reform Church teaching on questions to life. Francis and his predecessor Benedict cial relationship” still holds strong, and is Washington for talks at the White House Master was received on Tuesday by Pope related to the family, marriage and divorce. XVI have both adopted a more flexible stance, being closely watched in Washington as tomorrow. She will then fly straight to Francis who requested his resignation, which Reports in the specialist Catholic press suggest- signaling that the use of condoms can be Trump’s foreign policy takes shape. Trump Turkey for talks with President Recep the Grand Master agreed to,” a spokesman for ed Boeselager was targeted because Order char- acceptable in circumstances where their use has offered rare support for Brexit among Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday, where she the Order said. ities he oversaw had taken part in a program dis- preserves life, such as in AIDS-ravaged commu- global leaders, seeing parallels with his will also discuss possible post-Brexit trade In theory, Briton Festing was in the job for tributing free condoms to prostitutes and others nities. The Order of Malta was founded in own election campaign, and saying ties. Turkey has been part of a customs life. His resignation will have to be approved by in Myanmar to prevent the spread of AIDS. Jerusalem in 1048 as a community of hospitals Britain was “smart” to vote to leave an EU union with the EU for some goods since the Order’s sovereign council. The unprecedent- Boeselager had claimed that he stopped the caring for the sick. —AFP that he believes is now falling apart. 1996 and May has said she wants to strike ed and very public dispute between the Vatican He has also pledged to move quickly a tailor-made customs deal with Brussels. and the Knights was seen by Holy See watchers on agreeing a trade deal with London- On her trip to Washington, May has said as a proxy war between Church liberals and welcome words for May, who last week she will highlight her support for free conservatives, led by American cardinal conceded publicly for the first time that trade, but also the concerns of those who Raymond Burke. The row erupted last month Britain would be leaving Europe’s single feel they have lost out-a factor in the votes when Francis appointed a five-strong team to market. But analysts note that Trump’s for Brexit and for Trump. examine the circumstances in which the Order’s protectionist, “America First” rhetoric May told the BBC this week that she number three was forced out of his job. The appears at odds with May’s promise to was hoping for “early” talks on a US-UK Knights, a Church-linked charity body descend- turn Britain into a free trade champion. trade deal-although the European ed from the crusaders of the Middle Ages, “There is a national sympathy from Trump Commission pointed out that Britain can- refused to cooperate. They said the December to this country because of Brexit,” said not start formal trade negotiations until it dismissal of Grand Chancellor Albrecht von Stephen Burman, professor of American leaves the bloc. Experts have also warned Boeselager was an internal affair. politics at the University of Sussex. that any deal is far from imminent as “But to me, ‘America First’ and a ‘Global agreements take years to negotiate. The Myanmar prostitutes Britain’ are practically contradictory state- premier has promised to launch the two- Festing subsequently claimed in a leaked let- ments.”That’s not going to change year divorce proceedings in March, but ter that three of the Vatican’s appointees had a because of a trip”, he added. There is also has already had tentative trade talks with conflict of interest because of links to a Geneva- the uncomfortable issue of Trump’s com- India, Australia and New Zealand. There based fund in which the Order also had a stake. ments about women, some of which he are numerous obstacles to overcome, has apologized for, which May has brand- however, not least whether the US auto- That blatant defiance of papal authority appears ed “unacceptable.” “Whenever there is motive industry will agree to lower tariffs to have been the last straw. Von Boeselager’s dis- something that I find unacceptable, I will on incoming British cars, and different missal had been seen by some as being the VATICAN CITY: In this file photo, Pope Francis delivers his blessing during his meeting with say that to Donald Trump,” May, Britain’s standards on agriculture. —AFP result of him being too liberal for Burke, who has acted as the Vatican’s liaison with the Order since Grand Master of the Knights of Malta Matthew Festing, left, at the Vatican. —AP THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 INTERNATIONAL Modi, Trump share warm phone conversation NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister became the first sitting US president to Modi added after the White House released a campaign advertisement in between the majority Hindu population Narendra Modi pledged yesterday to pay a second visit to India during the revealed Washington had extended a Hindi for Diwali, the Hindu festival of and its Muslim minority. work closely with Donald Trump after 2015 Republic Day celebrations. A sur- similar invite. lights-albeit in a thick US accent. There are an estimated four million the new US president invited him to prisingly warm conversation in Nov Several commentators have argued Indian Americans living in the United Washington, looking to ensure an between Trump and Pakistan’s Prime True friend that Modi and Trump should have a nat- States according to 2015 census figures. upturn in ties survives a change at the Minister Nawaz Sharif caused alarm in During the call, Trump emphasized ural affinity as two political outsiders While Trump’s decision to pull the White House. After their first phone call New Delhi which is trying to portray its that the United States “considers India a who have risen to power in part by casti- United States out of a trade pact known since Trump’s inauguration, the leaders rival regime in Islamabad as the “moth- true friend and partner in addressing gating the traditional ruling elite on a as Trans-Pacific Partnership (TTP) caused of the world’s two largest democracies ership of terrorism.” challenges around the world,” according nationalist platform. Trump’s chief some consternation in other Asian coun- both indicated they had had a warm But official statements issued after to a White House readout of the call. strategist Steve Bannon described tries such as China and Japan, India was conversation and extended mutual invi- Tuesday’s night phone call indicated “The two discussed opportunities to Modi’s victory in India’s 2014 general not part of the agreement. A report in tations to their respective capitals. that both men are keen to build on the strengthen the partnership between the election as the first phase in a “global yesterday’s Hindustan Times said Modi was effectively barred from the recent improvement in ties. Writing on United States and India in broad areas revolt” against the existing order that Trump’s reservations over an existing United States for many years as punish- Twitter, Modi said he “had a warm con- such as the economy and defense. culminated with the outcome of visa scheme allowing high-skilled for- ment for deadly communal riots in the versation” with the new US president “President Trump looked forward to November’s US polls. The new presi- eign workers into the US could cause western state of Gujarat during his time and that they had both “agreed to work hosting Prime Minister Modi in the dent’s hard line rhetoric towards some friction but it quoted an Indian as chief minister. But after his landslide closely in the coming days to further United States later this year.” During his Muslims during his campaign found official as saying that “there is no other election victory, Modi built a strong strengthen our bilateral ties.” “Have also election campaign, Trump courted favor in some quarters in India, which area of potential dispute” with the new rapport with Barack Obama who invited President Trump to visit India,” Indian-American voters and even has had its fair share of tensions administration.—AFP Pakistani female lawmaker harassed in parliament Women protection laws not enforced KARACHI: A Pakistani female lawmaker threat- protect women are not being enforced. Nusrat of the assembly Friday in comments seen as sex- ened to self-immolate after she was harassed by Sahar Abbasi, an MP in Sindh province, spoke of ual harassment in conservative Pakistan. She male colleagues in parliament, said that the her fury after provincial minister Imdad Pitafi said she protested strongly but the deputy widely-publicized incident shows how laws to invited her to his private chambers on the floor speaker of the assembly, also a woman, refused to take any action. A frustrated Abbasi was then pictured Saturday holding a small bottle said to be of petrol and threatening to self-immolate if action was not taken. Federal party chiefs were forced to intervene as the incident exploded on social media, with Pitafi finally caving to the pressure and apologizing in the assembly while offering Abbasi a chador, or veil, as a mark of his respect. Abbasi said Tuesday that the incident was now “over,” but that it poses a question on the imple- mentation of laws protecting women from such sexual harassment. “Their implementation is still a dream,” Abbasi said. “Even us, the parliamentar- ians are not safe from gender biases and harass- ment,” she said. Pakistani women have spent decades fight- ing for their rights in a deeply conservative country where so-called honor killings and acid attacks remain commonplace. Pakistan SRINAGAR: Indian paramilitary soldiers take shelter from snow inside a tent as they has passed several laws to increase protections stand guard on the eve of the Republic Day in Srinagar, Indian controlled Kashmir, available to women in recent years, some at yesterday. —AP the provincial level, but critics have warned that without proper enforcement they will Killer avalanches have little impact. Last year a bill passed in Punjab province redefined “violence” to include “any offense committed against a hit Indian Kashmir women,” prompting an Islamic religious body KARACHI: In this photo, Nusrat Sahar Abbasi, a Member of Parliament in Pakistan’s Sindh to protest that men should be allowed to province speaks during an interview in Karachi. —AFP “lightly beat” their wives.—AFP SRINAGAR: Avalanches killed five people old sister and both their parents. The sol- in Indian-administered Kashmir yesterday- dier was killed when another avalanche hit four members of a family whose home an army barracks in the northern area of was buried under snow and a soldier sta- Sonmarg, said a military spokesman. Blasphemy law exalts killer; tioned at a military base. The four family Indian-administered Kashmir has been wit- members died when an avalanche ripped nessing one of the severest winters in through the small village of Badugam in recent decades, with heavy snow across threatens missing bloggers the Gurez area, close to the unofficial bor- the territory and temperature dropping to der with Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, minus seven degrees Celsius. while they were asleep in their home. Meteorologists have forecast more heavy BARAKHAO, Pakistan: Two ornate minarets drinking the same water as them. They argued “Last year, his family had buried him strategi- Police and rescuers managed to pull an snow across the territory over the next three pierce the evening sky. They frame the emerald and the women accused Bibi of insulting Islam’s cally in an open ground and sort of wilderness 18-year-old from the mounds of snow but days. Authorities had already issued ava- green colored dome of an ornate shrine erected prophet, a charge she flatly denies. Mulk also (area) to ensure that a structure could be built he was the sole survivor. lanche warnings, advising residents in moun- to honor Mumtaz Qadri, an assassin hanged for prosecuted Qadri, securing a guilty verdict and on top.” Qadri’s brother, Amir Sajjad, speaking at “The avalanche struck the village at 4:00 tainous areas not to venture out. Police last gunning down a politician who criticized death sentence that was carried out last year. the shrine where he spends every afternoon and am, killing four members of a family. One week evacuated 80 villagers from Waltengoo Pakistan’s controversial blasphemy law and He travels with security and police are stationed evening collecting donations, said the shrine survivor was rescued,” inspector general of Nar-where dozens were killed after a series of defended a Christian woman sentenced to death outside his home in the eastern Punjab city of was his brother’s final wish. Sajjad said Qadri police for the region, Javid Gillani, said. The avalanches hit the area in 2005 — in the for allegedly insulting Islam. Qadri’s body lies in Lahore. told his family he wanted a shrine built at his victims were a 17-year-old boy, his 19-year- south of the territory.—AFP a marble-encased tomb inside the shrine. He In an interview, Mulk also warned that the grave as well as a mosque and a madrassah, or had been a member of an elite police unit financial windfall that has come with Qadri’s religious school. Construction has already begun charged with protecting Punjab provincial gov- death risks encouraging would-be “martyrs.” “If on the mosque and preparations are under way ernor Salman Taseer. one person is not able to feed his parents and for the school. Millions of rupees in donations Authorities to confiscate Instead, he turned his AK-47 assault rifle on family, he gives his life, kills somebody big and have been collected, said Sajjad. the politician killing him in a hail of bullets. With the whole family becomes richer than they The roof of the shrine shimmers from the unused Myanmar farmland an eerie smile on his face he then laid down his could ever dream,” he said. For some in thousands of tiny mirrors inlaid throughout. A YANGON: Authorities in Myanmar’s cen- land that was not being used. weapon and was arrested, tried and later Pakistan, the shrine is seen as yet another tool crystal chandelier revolves atop Qadri’s ornate tral Mandalay region plan to confiscate Most land seizures in Myanmar date hanged. The shrine, which is being built on the in the arsenal of radical Sunni Muslim groups marble grave embellished with verses from some 40,000 acres of unused farmland to from the 1990s and early 2000s, when outskirts of the federal capital, is worrisome for seeking to consolidate their hold over Islam’s holy book, The Quran. Despite the con- use for the nation’s interests, an official the country was undergoing a messy those in Pakistan who fear a growing tide of Pakistan’s 180 million people. struction, adherents lay their prayer mats and said yesterday. Land ownership is one of transition from its own brand of junta- extremism in the country marked by brutal sec- Ayesha Siddiqa, a defense analyst who has offer prayer. Those coming to pay homage to the most contentious issues in Myanmar, controlled socialism to a more market- tarian killings, violent protests by clerics in favor written extensively on Pakistan’s military com- Qadri are a mix of men, women enveloped in where the former junta was accused of driven model. Activists say most of the of the blasphemy law, and frightening threats to plex, warned in a recent column that Qadri’s large shawls, children and a handful of young rampant confiscation during its 50-year land was grabbed by military officers and anyone who would dare to challenge it. shrine will emerge as a rallying cry for the students from Pakistan’s financial hub Karachi, a rule. The new civilian government led by their cronies, and large tracts of it were Five liberal-leaning bloggers who disap- preservation of the blasphemy law, which some cosmopolitan city of 20 million people on the Aung San Suu Kyi has said addressing then loaned to private companies to be peared earlier this month, and the Pakistanis liberal lawmakers would like to see at least Arabian Sea. They are educated and speak land conflicts is a priority, after anger cultivated. A report by campaign group who are protesting their disappearance, have amended to make it more difficult to abuse. “The English but their views are hardline. Bilal Fazl, 18, among the rural poor helped sweep it to Land in Our Hands claimed 5,000 acres blasphemy law is their big ticket to support become the latest target of radical clerics and who attends university in Karachi, was filled with power in 2015 elections. were confiscated from farmers in the amongst the masses which they would like to their followers. The clerics have accused the admiration for Qadri.” He said the blasphemy law “We will start to confiscate over Mandalay region in 2010 alone. consolidate further with the symbol they have missing writers of blasphemy after a social was a black law. It was OK to kill him,” he said of 40,000 acres of vacant land this April,” Few farmers have documents to prove now erected in the form of Mumtaz Qadri’s media campaign linked them to allegations of Taseer. Fazl called Qadri a “hero of Islam.”—AP Soe Than, Mandalay regional minister for land title. Those who do often end up shrine near the capital city,” Siddiqa wrote. blasphemy without any evidence. A simple accu- agriculture, said. “Nothing has been mired in a complex and opaque system sation of blasphemy in Pakistan can be tanta- grown on this land for years. The govern- with little hope of redress. Yesterday legal mount to a death sentence. The government has ment will use it for the interests of the rights group Namati said only 15 percent tried to quell the allegations, saying there is no country,” he said, adding it would be suit- of their cases involving government min- evidence that the bloggers said or did anything able for growing coffee. It was not clear istries ever ended up being resolved. A that could be considered blasphemous and no where the land is or who currently lives commission set up in 2013 to address suggestion of any of them being charged with on it. A law enacted in 2012 under the land grabs has only dealt with a fraction blasphemy once they are found. previous government gave the state the of the tens of thousands of cases across The bloggers, whose disappearances have right to confiscate vacant, fallow or virgin the country.—AFP been decried nationally and internationally, have been critical of the military and have bemoaned the presence of radical religious mili- tant groups in their country. No one has taken Philippines seeks removal responsibility for their disappearances. Supporters of the bloggers say that Qadri’s of exiled communist shrine exalts those who kill in the name of reli- gion and makes even amending the blasphemy from US terrorist list law to make it more difficult to abuse, a danger- ous proposition. MANILA: The Philippines wants US vents him from travelling. The govern- “This is very, very unfortunate . . . that a per- President Donald Trump to remove the ment’s chief peace negotiator, Silvestre son who has been adjudged by the highest exiled leader of Philippine communists Bello, said Trump would be asked to constitutional court of Pakistan, the Supreme from a US terrorist list to enable him to remove Sison from the list. “The govern- Court of Pakistan, as a terrorist (yet) these cler- come home for peace talks, government ment of the Philippines will recommend to ics and the innocent people of this country, negotiators said yesterday. Maoist-led the president the de-listing of Communist they’re trying to paint him as a saint,”“ said rebels have waged an insurgency against Party of the Philippines founding chair, attorney Saif-ul-Mulk. “I can assure you that in Philippine governments for nearly five Sison from the list of international terrorists the coming 10 to 20 years, he will be a saint of decades and at least 40,000 people have to pave the way for his Philippine home- very high profile and billions of rupees will be been killed. coming without being arrested,” Bello and coming to his shrine.” But talks on ending the war have been his team said in a statement. Duterte and revived under President Rodrigo Duterte, Sison have agreed to meet in any neutral Big ticket who came to power last year calling for Asian country once Sison has been Mulk is defending Asiya Bibi, the Christian peace efforts in the interests of economic removed from the list. woman who has been on death row for the last development. Jose Maria Sison, the But Bello said the talks could be held in six years, and has launched a final appeal on her founder and leader of the Communist Party the Philippines. The communists’ 3,000- behalf in the Supreme Court. Bibi was charged of the Philippines, has lived in the strong armed wing, the New People’s Army, with blasphemy after a group of women with LAHORE: In this file photo, activists from Pakistan’s civil society demand recovery of the miss- Netherlands for three decades. He was put operates mainly in the east and south of whom she worked in the field berated her for ing persons, in Lahore, Pakistan. — AP on a US terrorist list in 2002, which pre- the Philippines.—Reuters THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 INTERNATIONAL US to send most senior officer to Thailand since 2014 coup BANGKOK: The highest ranking US offi- holding elections - and as Thailand has with China over trade, Taiwan and said that Harris’s attendance at Cobra Thailand’s links with China have grown cer to visit Thailand since a 2014 coup grown closer to dominant regional claims in the South China Sea. The US Gold sent an important signal. “It is not ever stronger since the 2014 coup. will attend a military exercise next power China. embassy said Cobra Gold would only common for an officer of Admiral Harris’ Thai officials said yesterday the gov- month in what the Thai army hailed yes- The US embassy confirmed that return to its original scope and scale rank to attend these sorts of events,” ernment had approved 13.5 billion baht terday as a sign of improving relations. Admiral Harry Harris, the head of once Thailand restores democracy. said General Thanchaiyan Srisuwan, the ($380 million) to buy a submarine from The United States scaled down its pres- Pacific Command, would open Cobra “We are eager to see our cooperation head of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. China after putting the purchase on ence at Cobra Gold, Asia’s largest annual Gold on Feb 14. More junior officers fully resume with the restoration of a “It is a good signal for Thai-American hold last year. It will also buy new tanks multinational military exercise, as one attended the exercise in the past two democratically elected civilian govern- relations and shows that the US has giv- and other vehicles from China. The Thai of the former US administration’s meas- years. Harris’s attendance was planned ment,” Melissa Sweeney, a spokes- en importance to this region and this junta held a referendum last year on a ures to pressure the Thai government to before the inauguration of US woman at the US embassy in Bangkok, exercise,” he said. Thailand has hosted constitution to allow a general election. restore democracy. President Donald Trump, whose policy said. The United States will send 3,500 the war games since they began in It was originally due to take place this Relations have since improved as moves on Asia are closely watched personnel to the war games slightly 1982. This year’s event will be attended year but it is not widely expected to the junta has taken steps towards after signals of potential confrontation fewer than last year. Thailand’s army by 8,333 personnel from 29 countries. happen before 2018.—Reuters US man’s 20-year jail term for S Korea murder upheld SEOUL: South Korea’s top court upheld an nightlife district of Itaewon, close to the US US citizen’s 20-year murder sentence yes- military base in Seoul. Patterson was tried terday, finally drawing a line under a tortu- and convicted in 1997 as an accomplice to ous legal saga two decades after he Edward Lee, a Korean-American man, who stabbed a Korean to death in a Burger King was jailed for 20 years for murder. Each toilet. The random killing of Jo Jung-Pil was accused the other of killing Jo. made into a hit movie in 2009, reviving Patterson served 18 months in prison for public anger over the crime and forcing lesser charges including obstruction of jus- South Korean prosecutors to reopen the tice, and was released in 1998 as part of an case. Arthur Patterson, now 37, was con- amnesty program, only to find himself a victed by a Seoul court last year and the murder suspect again after Lee was acquit- Supreme Court of Korea upheld the ruling ted on appeal for lack of evidence. He fled yesterday, adding in a statement that his to the United States a year later after inves- sentence was “justified”. tigators failed to renew his travel ban-a Patterson, the son of a US military con- mistake that sparked a storm of criticism. tractor, was 17 at the time, and 20 years in Patterson was formally charged in absentia jail is the maximum penalty in South Korea with Jo’s murder in 2011 and was extradit- for an offender under 18. He had denied ed from the United States in September any involvement in the killing in the 2015 to face trial.—AFP N Korean elite turning against leader Kim

SEOUL: The North Korean elite are out- sile programs, regularly threatens to wardly expressing their discontent towards destroy the South and its main ally, the young leader Kim Jong Un and his govern- United States. ment as more outside information trickles Thae is the most senior official to have into the isolated country, North Korea’s for- fled North Korea and entered public life in mer deputy ambassador to London said the South since the 1997 defection of yesterday. Thae Yong Ho defected to South Hwang Jang Yop, the brains behind the Korea in August last year and since North’s governing ideology, “Juche”, which BEIJING: This file photo shows China’s aircraft carrier Soviet-era Liaoning. —AFP December 2016 has been speaking to combines Marxism and extreme national- media and appearing on variety television ism. Today’s North Korean system had shows to discuss his defection to Seoul and “nothing to do with true communism”, his life as a North Korean envoy. Thae said, adding that the elite, like him- US faces stiff pushback “When Kim Jong Un first came to pow- self, had watched with unease as countries er, I was hopeful that he would make rea- like Cambodia, Vietnam and the former sonable and rational decisions to save Soviet Union embraced economic and North Korea from poverty, but I soon fell social reforms. from China in S China Sea Thae has said that more North Korean into despair watching him purging offi- cials for no proper reasons,” Thae said dur- diplomats are waiting in Europe to defect ing his first news conference with foreign to South Korea. North Korea still outward- ‘US to send clear signal about China’s access’ media yesterday. “Low-level dissent or ly professes to maintain a Soviet-style criticism of the regime, until recently command economy, but for years a thriv- BEIJING: If Donald Trump’s hawkish new admin- condemnation over its construction of airstrips deny or impede their access to some extent,” unthinkable, is becoming more frequent,” ing network of informal markets and per- istration follows through on threats and tries to and installation of anti-aircraft batteries on one- Noboru Yamaguchi of the International said Thae, who spoke in fluent, British- son-to-person trading has become the cut Beijing off from artificial islands in the South time reefs. It has dismissed an international arbi- University of Japan said. accented English. “We have to spray gaso- main source of food and money for ordi- China Sea, it could face a stiffer pushback than tration court that ruled last year there was no line on North Korea, and let the North nary people. many imagine, experts say. The US president and basis for its claims over the South China Sea. Bring China more respect Korean people set fire to it.” Fully embracing these reforms would his team have made much of their desire to put Former US President Barack Obama occasionally While China has made significant progress in Thae, 54, has said publicly that dissatis- end Kim Jong Un’s rule, Thae said. Asked Beijing in its place, including in the strategically sent warships and planes through the area in so- developing its military over the past two faction with Kim Jong Un prompted him if Kim Jong Un’s brother, Kim Jong Chol, vital waterway, which China claims almost called “freedom of navigation” exercises, but crit- decades, it remains far behind the US, whose to flee his post. Two university-age sons could run the country instead, Thae entirely and where it has reclaimed-and forti- ics say he did not do enough to prevent China military budget is three times higher, at nearly living with him and his wife in London remained sceptical. “Kim Jong Chol has fied-thousands of acres of land, according to the gaining a substantial foothold. $600 billion. “Most analysts agree that it is 20 or also defected with him. North and South no interest in politics. He is only interest- Pentagon. Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Trump, who threaded anti-China rhetoric 30 years behind the US in terms of military capa- Korea are technically still at war because ed in music,” Thae said. “He’s only interest- State, Rex Tillerson, told his confirmation hearing throughout his election campaign, has indicat- bilities,” said James Char of Singapore’s Nanyang their 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce, not ed in Eric Clapton. If he was a normal the US needs to send a clear signal that China’s ed he is going to be a lot firmer. “If those islands Technological University. A major Achilles heel a peace treaty. The North, which is subject man, I’m sure he’d be a very good profes- access to the islands is “not going to be allowed”. are, in fact, in international waters and not part for the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is that it to UN sanctions over its nuclear and mis- sional guitarist.”—Reuters Observers quickly pointed out the full-scale of China proper, yeah, we’ll make sure we has not fought a real battle since a war with blockade this would require was likely to provoke defend international interests from being taken Vietnam in 1979, and has a questionable mas- a military response from Beijing-a response that over by one country,” new White House press tery of modern military techniques, according to might be enough to make the US think twice. secretary Sean Spicer said Monday. Beijing is some Western experts. And while the West has While Beijing may have a poorer and less well- flexing its military muscle in response to the NATO as a channel through which to share mili- equipped military, it is stocking its arsenal with warnings. Three days after Trump’s inaugura- tary experiences, China has no similar outlet, submarines, anti-ship missiles and other weapons tion, China’s navy announced the delivery of the despite periodic joint exercises with other coun- tailor-made to neutralize Washington’s most valu- CNS Xining destroyer, nicknamed the “carrier tries such as Russia. able naval assets, they say. “Beijing knows that it killer” for its large load of anti-ship and land As Niquet sees it, “Beijing must play a deli- cannot win a conventional frontal conflict with attack cruise missiles. cate balancing game so as not to go too far in the US,” with its vastly superior military, Valerie Beijing also possesses DF-21 and DF-26 anti- their threats and provoke an American interven- Niquet of French think tank Foundation of ship missiles that could secure it “a credible tion” with unthinkable consequences. So far, Strategic Research said. Instead, it is developing denial of access” against the US Navy, a source China is playing it cool in the face of “capacities that would restore its freedom to with knowledge of Chinese military activities Washington’s rhetoric, with the foreign ministry maneuver by pushing Washington to hesitate said. While the US has around a dozen aircraft largely avoiding any statements that might raise before a potentially costly intervention in Asia.” carriers, Beijing has just one: the second-hand, the temperature. But “there certainly exists the Soviet-built Liaoning. A second is under con- worst-case probability of a destructive show- Flexing muscles struction. The Liaoning conducted its first live down” over access to China’s artificial islands an China’s island building program in the South fire drill in December before heading to the editorial in the state-run China Daily warned China Sea has irked neighbors-many of whom South China Sea. China’s naval capacities yesterday. And “if there is to be ‘war’ in the also have claims to parts of the sea-and caused “might not be enough to decisively destroy South China Sea it will be because of actions by global concern. Beijing has ignored international hostile modern navies, yet they are enough to the US military.”—AFP S Korean prosecutors plan to SEOUL: Former North Korean deputy ambassador to Britain Thae Yong-Ho talks to search impeached leader’s office the media at the Seoul Foreign Correspondents Club in Seoul yesterday. —AFP

SEOUL: Prosecutors said yesterday they plan to next month over a huge corruption scandal confidante, Choi Soon-sil, shouted out to question impeached South Korean President involving Park and her longtime confidante. In reporters as she was brought to the prosecu- Three foreigners jailed in Park Geun-hye and search her office by early an unusual moment earlier in the day, Park’s tors’ offices to be questioned. Choi called the investigation unfair and said she had been Taiwan over ATM heist forced to confess untrue things about her rela- tionship with Park. TAIPEI: Three eastern Europeans were spokesman Liao Chien-yu said the judges “They are not a democratic special prosecu- jailed for five years in Taiwan yesterday had considered the illegal bank with- tion any longer ... they are forcing me to make a over a $2.6 million cyber heist that used drawals as one case, which carries a maxi- confession,” Choi screamed out as guards led her malware to hack into a major local bank’s mum five-year sentence. into the building. “I’m getting a bum rap.” ATM network. The attack, the first of its Prosecutors have said it was the first Meanwhile, Lee Kyu-chul, a spokesman for the kind in Taiwan, targeted the First case of a multinational crime ring hack- special prosecutors’ team, said officials are push- Commercial Bank’s ATM network in July ing into a bank’s computer system to ing to interview Park and search her office by and saw money withdrawn from dozens plant malware. Thai police said a gang of early February. Park, who has been stripped of of machines in three cities. The suspects foreign criminals stole millions of baht by power but not removed from office, cannot be had uncovered a security loophole in a hacking a local bank’s ATM network in a forced to testify at the Constitutional Court hold- server at the bank’s London branch office theft last year believed to be linked to the ing her impeachment trial. But she has said she’s and used it to plant the malware, accord- one in Taiwan. Taiwan’s government has willing to undergo questioning by the special ing to Taiwanese authorities. added 19 other suspects, including one prosecutors investigating the wide-ranging Latvian Andrejs Peregudovs, together Australian, one French national and an scandal. It’s not clear if her office will allow the with Mihail Colibaba from Romania and unknown number of eastern Europeans, search of the presidential Blue House. Niklae Penkov from Moldova, were con- to the wanted list after they fled the Park is accused of allowing Choi to meddle in victed of causing damage to the public island following the heist. state affairs and colluding with Choi to extort by breaching computer security, said the Surveillance images released by the money from businesses. Choi and several presi- Taipei district court. They were also each bank showed masked robbers working in dential aides have been arrested. To remove Park fined Tw$600,000 ($19,00) and will be two-man teams targeting 41 ATMs in from office permanently, at least six of the deported after completing their sen- three cities from July 9-11. Within five to Constitutional Court’s nine justices must support tences, the court said. 10 minutes, the thieves were seen walk- her impeachment. Several justices will leave They can appeal the ruling. ing away with bags full of stolen cash. office before March 13, but six ‘yes’ votes are still Prosecutors had sought 12-year jail Police arrested the trio in Taipei and required even if some seats are vacant. Court terms, saying their multiple actions had northeastern Yilan county several days SEOUL: Choi Soon-sil, center, the jailed confidante of impeached South Korean President head Park Han-chul, one of the departing jus- “seriously disrupted financial order and after the heist and recovered most of the Park Geun-hye, arrives at the office of the independent counsel in Seoul, South Korea, yes- tices, said the court’s ruling should be issued by caused public panic.” But court stolen money.—AFP terday. —AP then, but that opinion is not binding.—AP NEWS THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 Corruption on the rise in Kuwait Trump orders building Continued from Page 1 bution of wealth, Transparency International said in a state- ment yesterday. “In too many countries, people are deprived Transparency International had suspended the member- of their most basic needs and go to bed hungry every night of Mexico border wall ship of the Kuwait Transparency Society (KTS) on June 5, because of corruption, while the powerful and corrupt enjoy 2015 after the government dissolved its elected board and lavish lifestyles with impunity,” said Jose Ugaz, Chair of replaced it with government appointees. “In order to protect Transparency International. WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump yesterday signed In an interview with ABC News yesterday, Trump said con- the staff and membership of KTS, a fully accredited chapter According to the organization, lower-ranked countries directives to build a wall along the US border with Mexico struction on the wall would start within months, with plan- of Transparency International, Transparency International’s are plagued by untrustworthy and badly functioning and crack down on US cities that shield illegal immigrants, ning starting immediately, and that Mexico would pay back to board has passed a resolution suspending the organization public institutions like the police and judiciary. “Even proceeding quickly on sweeping and divisive plans to curb the United States “100 percent” of the costs. Mexican officials from the Transparency International movement until further where anti-corruption laws are on the books, in practice immigration and boost national security. The Republican have said they will not pay for the wall. During a White House notice,” the Berlin-based organization said in a press state- they are often skirted or ignored. People frequently face president is also expected to take steps in the coming days to briefing, Spicer referred to the wall as “a large physical barrier ment released on June 11, 2015. situations of bribery and extortion, rely on basic services limit legal immigration, including executive orders restricting on the southern border”. “Building this barrier is more than Notably, the UAE dropped four points in 2016’s index that have been undermined by the misappropriation of refugees and blocking the issuing of visas to people from just a campaign promise, it’s a common sense first step to compared to 2015, while Qatar dropped 10 points. funds, and confront official indifference when seeking several Muslim-majority Middle Eastern and North African really securing our porous border,” Spicer added. “This will Globally, New Zealand moved into a tie with Denmark for redress from authorities that are on the take,” the report countries including Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Iraq, Iran, Libya stem the flow of drugs, crime, illegal immigration into the the number one spot, after each finished with 90 points. reads. On the other hand, it says that higher-ranked coun- and Yemen. United States,” he said. Meanwhile, Finland and Sweden retained their third and tries tend to have higher degrees of press freedom, Trump signed two executive orders at the Department of Trump has long said that he will make Mexico pay for the fourth ranks respectively, while Switzerland rounded up access to information about public expenditure, stronger Homeland Security, one ordering construction of a wall along wall. “We’ll be reimbursed at a later date from whatever trans- the top five. On the other hand, the United States dropped standards of integrity for public officials, and independ- the roughly 2,000-mile (3,200-km) US-Mexico border and the action we make from Mexico,” Trump told ABC yesterday. “I’m two spots and ranked 18th with 74 points. The bottom five ent judicial systems. other moving to strip federal grant money from “sanctuary” just telling you there will be a payment. It will be in a form, include Yemen, Syria, North Korea, South Sudan and “But high-scoring countries can’t afford to be compla- states and cities, often governed by Democrats, that harbor perhaps a complicated form. What I’m doing is good for the Somalia as the country with the worst score (10 points). cent, either,” it noted. “While the most obvious forms of cor- illegal immigrants. In cities such as San Francisco local officials, United States. It’s also going to be good for Mexico. We want More countries declined than improved in the 2016 index ruption may not scar citizens’ daily lives in all these places, often Democrats, refuse to cooperate with federal authorities to have a very stable, very solid Mexico.” His plans prompted compared to a year before. This year’s results highlight the the higher-ranked countries are not immune to closed-door on actions against illegal immigrants. “The American people an immediate outcry from immigrant advocates who said connection between corruption and inequality, which feed deals, conflicts of interest, illicit finance, and patchy law are no longer going to have to be forced to subsidize this dis- Trump was jeopardizing the rights and freedoms of millions of off each other to create a vicious circle between corruption, enforcement that can distort public policy and exacerbate regard for our laws,” White House spokesman Sean Spicer said. people. — Reuters unequal distribution of power in society, and unequal distri- corruption at home and abroad.” Marzouq: Oil market is starting... Royal, tent arsonist, maids among 7... Continued from Page 1 exploration and production of free natural gas and Continued from Page 1 um of six years. In April 2013, authorities hanged three importing liquefied natural gas,” he added. men convicted of murder. Two months later, two Marzouq said that compliance with the cuts “repre- Nizar Al-Adsani, Deputy Chairman and chief The Filipina and Ethiopian women were domestic Egyptians, convicted of murder and abduction, were sents a guarantee for the price to recover to levels that Executive Officer of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, said helpers convicted of murdering members of their executed. One of them, Hajjaj Saadi, was convicted of encourage investments and ensure that crude stocks the drop in oil prices has become a prominent feature employers’ families in two unrelated crimes. The two abducting and raping 17 children below the age of 10. return to normal levels”. The minister said that there have of the market and the decline is expected to last longer. Egyptians were convicted of premeditated murder while He denied the charges in court. been announcements from several countries including Adsani added that the 2030 strategy of the Kuwaiti oil the Bangladeshi was convicted of abduction and rape. Human rights group Amnesty International con- OPEC kingpin Saudi Arabia that they have already com- sector covers a wide variety of functional areas and In the Philippines, Department of Foreign Affairs demned the executions as “shocking and deeply regret- pleted their cuts. Kuwait has also fully complied with the includes a detailed roadmap to support Kuwait’s devel- spokesman Charles Jose identified the Filipina hanged table”. “By choosing to resume executions now the reduction while Russia has cut 100,000 barrels per day in opment plan. “The plan includes a full program to as Jakatia Pawa, who was convicted of killing her Kuwaiti authorities have displayed a wanton disregard January and plans to extend that to 300,000 bpd soon, improve the role of the oil sector to support Kuwait’s employer’s daughter. Pawa’s brother, Air Force Lt Col for the right to life and signaled a willingness to weaken Marzouq said. He expected oil prices to range between economy while helping to provide jobs and training for Gary Pawa, said his sister called early morning yesterday, human rights standards,” Samah Hadid, Amnesty’s $55 and $60 a barrel throughout 2017. Kuwaitis and diversify sources of income,” he explained. crying as she informed him of her scheduled execution. deputy campaigns director, said. The group urged Marzouq predicted that the market will suffer from a Adsani stressed KPC focuses on the petrochemical “My sister’s only request was for us to take care of her Kuwait to review abolishing the death penalty. shortage in the supply of crude oil in the future. “Kuwait sector as a way to diversify sources of income, and is two children,” he said. Reprieve, a London-based rights group, also criti- is keen to invest in the development of cleaner fuels in expected to spend KD 35 billion over the next five years Ernesto Abella, a spokesman for Philippines President cized the executions and urged countries to call on addition to the development of petrochemical products starting from the fiscal year 2017-2018 on oil projects. Rodrigo Duterte, said in a statement that the authorities Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain to halt executions. that meet the requirements of preserving the environ- He pointed out that the 2030 enterprise strategy used “all efforts to preserve her life, including diplomatic Kuwait has executed 74 men and six women since it ment by investing in projects to expand its refining includes the launch of major projects, including invest- means and appeals for compassion”. “Execution, howev- introduced the death penalty in the mid-1960s. Most capacity inside and outside Kuwait,” he said. “Kuwait is ment in the field of refining and petrochemicals outside er, could no longer be forestalled under Kuwaiti laws,” he of those condemned have been murderers or drug keen to find new sources of energy to meet the growing Kuwait, the Zour refinery project, the clean fuel project said. “We pray for her and her bereaved family.” Kuwait is traffickers. Around 50 prisoners are on death row. It’s needs of fuel in power plants with urbanization and and increasing oil production capacity to reach 4 mil- home to 250,000 Filipino workers, with about 158,000 of not clear what sparked the timing of the executions. population expansion in the state by increasing the lion barrels per day by 2020. them working as domestic helpers, Philippine ambassa- However, it comes 10 days after Bahrain announced it dor to Kuwait Rene Villa said. put three men to death in its first executions since Kuwait resumed executions in 2013 after a moratori- 2010. — Agencies Traffickers using Gulf tourist visas... Tehran, Kuwait urge better Iran-Gulf ties Continued from Page 1 ern India. “Of the 30 cases of housemaids trapped in vari- ous Gulf countries we received last year, most were Continued from Page 1 the region. Kuwait recalled its Tehran ambassador in steps are routinely bypassed, the officials said. recruited by agents in Mumbai,” said Josephine January following attacks by protesters on two Saudi Housemaids with work visas undergo emigration checks Valarmathi of the National Domestic Workers’ Movement. diplomatic posts in Iran, though its embassy is still oper- and their data is recorded. This safeguarding can be skipped The number of Indian housemaids in the Gulf is estimat- The statements reflect efforts by both sides to repair ating. The missions were attacked after Saudi Arabia if they travel on a tourist visa - hence its appeal to traffickers. ed at 500,000, which officials said is difficult to corrobo- ties between Iran and the Gulf Cooperation Council, executed a prominent Shiite cleric in the kingdom. The challenges are mounting with job agencies now rate. The government wants to clamp down on illegal which includes Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Riyadh at the time cut diplomatic relations with Tehran. flying women from Sri Lanka and Nepal, officials said. recruitment agencies and said warnings will be issued to United Arab Emirates and Oman. The GCC was formed Iran and most GCC members support opposite sides in Recruitment work has also started in Mumbai, in addition local cable television operators that air their tempting in the early 1980s to confront Iran’s growing influence in the wars in Syria and Yemen. — Agencies to the earlier hubs of Chennai and Hyderabad, in south- advertisements. — Reuters THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 ANALYSIS

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Focus As Trump stresses ‘US First’, China plays world leader

hina is calmly mapping out global leadership aspirations from trade to climate change, drawing Cdistinctions between President Xi Jinping’s steady hand and new US President Donald Trump, whose first days have been marked by media feuds and protests. Just days ahead of Trump taking office, a self-assured Xi was in Switzerland as the keynote speaker at the World Economic Forum in Davos, offering a vigorous defense of globalization and signaling Beijing’s desire to play a bigger role on the world stage. Even on the thorny issue of the South China Sea, Beijing did not rise to the bait of White House remarks this week about “defending international territories” in the disputed waterway. Instead, China stressed its desire for peace and issued a restrained call for Washington to watch what it says. “You have your ‘America first’, we have our ‘community of common des- tiny for mankind’,” Retired Major-General Luo Yuan, a widely read Chinese military figure best known for his normally hawkish tone, wrote on his blog this week. “You have a ‘closed country’, we have ‘one belt, one road’,” he added, referring to China’s multi-billion dollar How Russia slyly sold its oil jewel new Silk Road trade and investment program. And while China has repeatedly said it does not ore than a month after Russia announced one of monly referred to in Russia as a “matryoshka”, after the purpose of Russia’s privatization program is to attract want the traditional US role of world leadership, a sen- ior Chinese diplomat accepted this week it could be its biggest privatizations since the 1990s, selling a wooden nesting dolls that open to reveal a smaller doll overseas money to cover a budgetary shortfall caused by forced upon China. “If anyone were to say China is play- M19.5 percent stake in its giant oil company inside. Following the trail of ownership leads to a Glencore low oil prices and Western sanctions. Putin has therefore ing a leadership role in the world I would say it’s not Rosneft, it still isn’t possible to determine from public UK subsidiary and a company that shares addresses with banned Russian state-owned banks from participating in China rushing to the front but rather the front runners records the full identities of those who bought it. The stake the Qatari Investment Authority, but also to a firm regis- the financing of privatizationdeals, which would defeat have stepped back leaving the place to China,” said was sold for 10.2 billion euros to a Singapore investment tered in the Cayman Islands, which does not require com- the aim of bringing in foreign capital. Zhang Jun, director general of the Chinese Foreign vehicle that Rosneft said was a 50/50 joint venture panies to record publicly who owns them. But public records in Singapore show that Russia’s sec- Ministry’s international economics department. between Qatar and the Swiss oil trading firm Glencore. The Singapore-registered investment vehicle that holds ond-largest bank, state-controlled VTB, loaned the Unveiling the deal at a televised meeting with Rosneft’s the newly privatized 19.5 percent stake in Rosneft is called Singapore vehicle QHG Shares the full €10.2 billion that it Stepping Up boss Igor Sechin on Dec 7, President Vladimir Putin called it QHG Shares. It is owned by a London-registered limited lia- paid to the Russian state last month to buy the stake. VTB That message was reinforced this week when Trump a sign of international faith in Russia, despite US and EU bility partnership, QHG Investments, which in turn lists as held the 19.5 percent Rosneft stake as collateral for that formally withdrew the United States from the Trans- financial sanctions on Russian firms including Rosneft. “It is one of its two owners another London-registered limited loan for part of December, before relinquishing it back to Pacific Partnership trade deal, distancing America from the largest privatization deal, the largest sale and acquisi- liability partnership, QHG Holding, created on Dec 5. One Rosneft’s state-owned parent company Rosneftegaz, its Asian allies. Several remaining TPP members said tion in the global oil and gas sector in 2016,” Putin said. of the partners in QHG Holding is QHG Cayman Limited, which in turn relinquished it back to the Singapore vehicle they would now look to include China in a revised pact, It was also one of the biggest transfers of state property registered at an address of the Cayman Islands office of when Intesa’s loan arrived in January. or pursue Beijing’s alternative free trade agreements. into private hands since the early post-Soviet years, when Walkers, an international law firm. VTB and Rosneft say VTB’s role in the deal was solely to “At many important multilateral forums, China’s leader allies of President Boris Yeltsin took control of state firms Jack Boldarin, Walkers managing partner in London, reduce market turbulence which would have arisen if the has put forward Chinese proposals, adding positive and became billionaires overnight. But important facts told Reuters the law firm would not be able to confirm 10.2 billion euros had arrived abruptly from abroad to be impetus to world development,” Su Xiaohui a senior about the deal either have not been disclosed, cannot be whether any company was its client, or comment further. converted to roubles on the open market. Apart from say- researcher at the Foreign Ministry-backed China determined solely from public records, or appear to contra- The use of an offshore company is by itself no indication of ing that its role was to reduce market volatility, VTB Institute of International Studies, wrote of the US TPP dict the straightforward official account of the stake being wrongdoing, but it can make it impossible to determine declined to comment further, including when asked if the decision in the overseas edition of the People’s Daily. split 50/50 by Glencore and the Qataris. the true owner of an asset from public records. The full 10.2 billion euros was paid back, or by whom. “In the economic integration process of the Asia For one: Glencore contributed only €300 million of equi- Singapore vehicle is also the borrower for Intesa’s €5.2 bil- Pacific, compared to certain countries who constantly ty to the deal, less than 3 percent of the purchase price, lion loan, and QHG Holdings, the London partnership that Finding a Buyer bear in mind their leadership role, what China pays which it said in a statement on Dec 10 had bought it an includes the Cayman Islands firm, is a guarantor of that Rosneft is the world’s biggest listed oil company by even more attention to is ‘responsibility’ and ‘stepping “indirect equity interest” limited to just 0.54 percent of debt. Banking experts say Intesa would be required by output and, along with natural gas export monopoly up’,” Su said. China’s hosting of an international confer- Rosneft. In addition, public records show the ownership “know your customer” rules to verify the borrowers’ identi- Gazprom, one of two crown jewels of the Russian state. ence on its “One Belt, One Road” initiative in May is one structure of the stake ultimately includes a Cayman Islands ties. Regulators would exercise heightened scrutiny Even at the best of times without the added risk of opportunity for Beijing to showcase its leadership of company whose beneficial owners cannot be traced. And because of the size of the deal and the need to comply Western sanctions, there would only be a few foreign global infrastructure and investment. while Italian bank Intesa SanPaolo leant the Singapore vehi- with sanctions on Russia. Reuters asked Intesa whether it investors with deep enough pockets to buy a big stake. A diplomatic source familiar with preparations said cle €5.2 billion to fund the deal, and Qatar put in €2.5 bil- knew who the beneficial owners of the Cayman company Glencore, one of the main buyers of Rosneft’s crude, has China was likely to hold it at the same glitzy convention lion, the sources of funding for nearly a quarter of the pur- were. The bank replied with a statement: “Intesa Sanpaolo Qatar’s $335 billion sovereign wealth fund, the QIA, as its center used to host the Asia Pacific Economic chase price have not been disclosed by any of the parties. does not comment on the details of its client operations. largest shareholder. Cooperation summit in 2014, setting the stage for Xi’s “The main question in relation to this transaction, as But we wish to reiterate that the financing was completed Russia and Qatar have backed opposite sides for years most high profile diplomatic event of the year. “China’s ever, still sounds like this: Who is the real buyer of a 19.5 with strict adherence to the regulations applicable to in the war in Syria, but as the world’s two leading natural pretty much inviting everyone,” the diplomat said. percent stake in Rosneft?” Sergey Aleksashenko, a former embargoes. Italian authorities found nothing that would gas exporters they have good reason to cooperate on Another area where China is keen to be seen as leading deputy head of Russia’s central bank, wrote in a blog last prohibit such an operation.” The Italian central bank, which energy issues and bury some of their differences over the way is climate change. Trump has in the past dis- week. Glencore would not comment on the identity of the serves as Italy’s banking regulator, declined to comment. Middle East policy. “The idea looked appealing to Qatar. missed climate change as a “hoax” and vowed during Cayman Islands firm or give a further explanation of how They like investing in energy. They saw upside in Rosneft. his presidential campaign to pull the United States out ownership of the 19.5 percent stake was divided. The Mystery Financing They saw upside in building relations with Russia, whose of the Paris Climate Agreement. Qatari Investment Authority said it would not comment on If the full identity of the new owners of the Rosneft role in the Middle East politics is only set to rise,” said one Li Junhua, head of the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s the deal, beyond confirming that it has participated in it. stake is a mystery, so too is the complete source of the source involved in talks among members of the Department of International Organisations and Rosneft declined to respond to questions posed by funds with which they bought it. Although Qatar has nev- Qatar/Glencore consortium about the purchase. Conferences, said world was worried about climate Reuters, including a request for comment on how ownership er publicly confirmed how much it has contributed to the According to a source close to Rosneft’s management change and whether countries would honour their of the 19.5 percent stake was divided, information about the deal or the size of the stake that it bought, Glencore and board, the deal came as a surprise to Rosneft’s sharehold- Paris commitments. “As far as China is concerned, my identity of the Cayman Islands buyer, or details of the source Rosneft say it contributed €2.5 billion. Along with the ers, including Britain’s BP, which itself owns 19.75 percent president has made it extremely clear, crystal clear, of any undisclosed sources of funds. The Kremlin did not €300 million from Glencore and the €5.2 billion loaned by of Rosneft and is represented on its board. The Rosneft China will do its part,” Li told reporters. respond to a list of questions about the deal sent by Reuters. Intesa, that still leaves a shortfall of €2.2 billion. board learned about the sale from Sechin himself only on Glencore has said this additional money came from Dec 7, several hours after Sechin recorded his televised Learning Process Matryoshka Doll other, undisclosed banks, including Russian banks, but has meeting with Putin announcing it, the source said. In It’s not always been this way. China has been through a long, tough learning process to become a Like many large deals, the Rosneft privatization uses a given no further details. The Qataris and Rosneft have response to questions from Reuters, BP said: “Matters of more responsible power. In 2013, China, angered with structure of shell companies owning shell companies, com- declined to comment on the source of this funding. The the board of directors are confidential.” — Reuters Manila over the long dispute on the South China Sea, only stumped up meager aid to the Philippines after it was hit by Super Typhoon Haiyan, prompting rare dis- sent in the influential Chinese state-run tabloid the Trump and press: War over truth is on Global Times that Beijing’s international image would be hit. It also will not be plain sailing. On certain key ith Donald Trump and the news have followed a similar pattern: as news including the New York Times. Spicer told Credibility at stake core issues including the self-ruled island of Taiwan, media unable to agree even on organizations called out the several false- reporters the president “has believed that Stony Brook University political scien- China will not back down. In its first official reaction to Wthe weather, the war over truth is hoods uttered over the weekend, his aide for a while based on studies and informa- tist John Ryan said the new administration Trump taking office, China’s Foreign Minister urged his on. In the first few days of his presidency, Kellyanne Conway defended what she tion he has,” without giving evidence. appears to understand that increasingly, “in administration to fully understand the importance of Trump and his aides have been accused of called “alternative facts” - leaving much of Trump has previously cited two studies politics, the facts do not matter”. Ryan, in a the “one China” principle, which Trump has called into spreading outright lies. The response: the America speechless. documenting voter registration errors, nei- CNBC column, said many people believed doubt and under which Washington acknowledges “dishonest” media is out to get him. Since Trump spokesman Sean Spicer, in his ther of which makes any claims about unemployment went up under president China’s position of sovereignty over Taiwan. China also the weekend, Trump has been embroiled in first official media briefing on Monday, fraudulent voting. Barack Obama when the opposite was true. expects that under the Trump administration it will be controversy over the crowd at his swearing- claimed that much of the press is opposed Summing up the view of many stunned “The Trump administration knows this and left alone on one issue that has long dogged ties with in, with both he and the White House over- to the new president and itself fudges observers, Washington Post media columnist believes it allows them to say whatever Washington - human rights. — Reuters stating its size - and dismissing conflicting facts. He cited one report - which turned Margaret Sullivan wrote this week that Spicer they want,” Ryan said. “Because the facts evidence as biased against him. out to be inaccurate and was later correct- was sent to “brazenly lie” from the White will not play much of a role in how the pub- New York Times fact-checkers called out ed - indicating a bust of Martin Luther King House podium. “We’ve gone full Orwell,” she lic view his administration.” Trump for claiming the rain stopped and Jr had been removed from its place in the wrote, drawing a parallel to the distortion of Some analysts warn, however, that All articles appearing on these pages the weather turned “sunny” after his inau- White House. “Over and over again there’s facts in the dystopian classic “1984” - sales of Trump’s apparent willingness to bend facts are the personal opinion of the writers. gural speech - noting that in reality a light this constant attempt to undermine his which have spiked since the weekend. In is eroding his credibility, and could durably rain fell throughout his remarks. The same credibility and the movement that he rep- these tussles over facts, some commentators undermine trust in the US government. Kuwait Times takes no responsibility day, Trump falsely asserted that his well- resents,” Spicer said. “And it’s frustrating for see a deliberate strategy of delegitimizing “While I am much more concerned about for views expressed therein. Kuwait documented feud with the US intelligence not just him, but I think so many of us that the press, in order to curtail future scrutiny of policy than I am about crowd-size contro- services was made up by the media. And are trying to work to get this message out.” the new administration. “His war isn’t with versies, White House credibility is of para- Times invites readers to voice their two days later, on Monday, he told congres- Spicer appeared to soften the tone, calling the media. Trump lives off media attention mount importance,” said Andy Wright, a law opinions. Please send submissions via sional leaders that as many as five million for an improved relationship with journal- and delights in press coverage. His war is professor and former White House staffer people could have voted illegally in ists after Trump, on his first day in office, with facts,” argued Vox.com editor-in-chief under Bill Clinton, writing for the Just email to: [email protected] or November - a claim backed by no public dubbed them “among the most dishonest Ezra Klein. “The Trump administration is cre- Security blog. via snail mail to PO Box 1301 Safat, evidence. human beings on Earth.” ating a baseline expectation among its loyal- “The Trump presidency has already During his campaign, Trump’s loose ists that they can’t trust anything said by the ignited a crisis of confidence,” he said. Kuwait. The editor reserves the right to interpretation of truth kept fact-checkers ‘Full Orwell’ media. The spat over crowd size is a low- “Without a credible White House, our allies edit any submission as necessary. working around the clock - PolitiFact found But at next day’s briefing, Spicer stood stakes, semi-comic dispute, but the ground- cannot rely on our promises and our adver- 70 percent of his statements “mostly” false by Trump’s unsubstantiated claims of voter work is being laid for much more conse- saries doubt our threats. Everything gets or worse. His first steps in the White House fraud, called out as a “lie” by leading media quential debates over what is, and isn’t, true.” more dangerous.” — AFP THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 SPORTS

Southampton face anxious McIlroy aiming to Hit-man Aubameyang to wait over Van Dijk injury return from injury return for Dortmund

NEW YORK: Rory McIlroy is targeting the Mexico BERLIN: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, the German league’s top scorer, is set LONDON: Southampton’s Netherlands defender Virgil van Dijk may be set for a Championship in March as his return to tournament action to return for Borussia Dortmund at Mainz on Sunday after Gabon’s early lengthy spell on the sidelines after injuring his ankle in Sunday’s 3-0 Premier from injury. McIlroy aggravated a rib stress fracture while finish- Africa Cup of Nations exit. “He will be back with us again by Thursday so he League win over Leicester City. Southampton fear Van Dijk, who will miss ing runner-up at the SA Open in Gauteng two weekends ago. will definitely be fit and an option for our coach,” Dortmund CEO Wednesday’s League Cup semi-final, second leg at Those injuries typically take about six weeks to heal, and he Hans-Joachim Watzke told Kicker. Hosts Gabon Liverpool, could be out for up to three months, believes he’ll be ready to play again in the first World Golf crashed out of the Cup of Nations at the group stage according to British media reports. Asked how Championship of the year, from March 2-5. “I feel like I can after drawing all three pool games, but Aubameyang long Van Dijk would be ruled out, a club maybe get back before that, but if I were to play (the) Honda still managed two goals. He is the German league’s spokesman told Reuters: “Our assessment is still (Classic) and then go straight to Mexico, I’d be playing two top scorer with 16 goals in 15 league games. In his ongoing, we’re waiting on completion of the weeks in a row. I’d like to ease my way back in gently,” he said absence Dortmund won their first Bundesliga game of scans before we can say with any certainty”. With on Tuesday. He said the Mexico Championship in Mexico City 2017 on Saturday with a scrappy 2-1 victory at Werder manager Claude Puel already juggling resources was ideal because there was no cut. “I can see how everything Bremen to climb fourth. The 27-year-old Aubameyang, after defender Jose Fonte’s switch to West Ham feels, and I have a week off after that,” he told The Clubhouse who has made no secret of his desire to join Real United, a long-term injury to Van Dijk would golf podcast. McIlroy, the world No. 2, has already missed the Madrid, has a Dortmund contract until 2020, but hinted leave his squad short in defence. Southampton, Abu Dhabi Championship, and pulled out of the Dubai Desert last week that he may leave in the summer. On Monday who head into the tie at Anfield with a 1-0 lead Classic next week. The injury means he will also miss the Dortmund signed a potential replacement when Swedish from the first leg, host Arsenal in the FA Cup on Genesis Open in California and Honda in Florida next month. teenage prodigy Alexander Isak-dubbed the next Saturday before a Premier League trip to Swansea He put the rib injury down to an extra-busy offseason, when he Zlatan Ibrahimovic-joined for a reported 10 million City three days later. — Reuters hit a lot of balls to make a swing change and test drivers. —AP euros ($10.7m).—AFP France into semis, Qatar out of worlds

PARIS: Holders France rallied past Sweden into the semi-finals of the world handball championships on Tuesday as Qatar, finalists two years ago, were dumped out of the tourna- ment. France held off Sweden 33-30 in a thriller which went down to the wire in Lille to set up a meeting with Slovenia, who ended Qatar’s run 32- 30 in Paris. Croatia edged 2013 champions Spain 30-29 in Montpellier, thanks to nine goals from left back Marko Mamic, as Norway booked their first semi-final at the worlds with a 31-28 win over Amir’s 6th International Shooting Hungary in Albertville. French hopes had been boosted by the elimination Grand Prix to kick off on Saturday of Olympic champions Denmark and European holders Germany. By Abdellatif Sharaa the tournament which contributes to the But the French had to battle past a development of Kuwait Shooting which dogged Sweden with Lukas Nilsson KUWAIT: HH The Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- has gone to wider horizons and pointed to Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Sixth the achievements Kuwait Shooting made powering the Scandinavians with five International Shooting Grand Prix will kick at the International and Olympic levels, first-half goals as the hosts trailed 16- off on Saturday with the participation of especial in Rio, when six Kuwaiti shooters 15 at the break. 650 shooters from 47 countries. qualified while Fuheid Al-Daihani and With some key substitutions how- President of Arab and Kuwait Shooting Abdallah Al-Rashidi displayed a very strong ever and good work by Vincent Federations Eng Duaij Khalaf Al-Otaibi said performance there, despite all the prob- Gerard, Kentin Mahe and Nedim the tournament will include the 13th Arab lems Kuwaiti athletes are facing at the pres- Remili, the French battled back to Shooting Tournament that will continue ent time. He said Kuwait Shooting Sport keep their bid for a sixth world title until February 3rd. Club Board of Directors are concentrating on track. They take on Slovenia PARIS: Qatar’s Youssef Ali shoots the ball during the 25th men’s Handball World Championship Al-Otaibi was speaking at a press confer- on the base youth and juniors, and were today. It will be the third meeting Slovenia against Qatar at the Bercy arena in Paris, Tuesday. — AP ence held Tuesday night at Sheikh Sabah able to form teams at these stages, as we between the two teams in less than Al-Ahmad Olympic Shooting Complex absolutely believe in the importance of two weeks with the French winning along with secretary general of KSF and having links between the generations. the previous ties. ASF Obaid Al-Osaimi. He said the tourna- Obaid Al-Osaimi said that preparations The clash will also have a special ment is expected to see strong competition for this event started early, as the Higher flavour for Slovenian back Jure by shooters who look forward to win its Organizing Committee has been working Dolenec, voted man of the match prestigious cup. for a long time, getting ranges ready, work- against Qatar with five goals, and Vid Al-Otaibi highly appreciated the sup- shops, and training. Kavticnik, who will be up against port of HH the Amir to this sport of our her- He said there were special courses for many of their teammates from itage, and his patronizing of this tourna- referees who will officiate the event, for Montpellier. Qatar had shocked ment that is revered by all shooters. He also their very important role. He said the appreciated the support of Public Authority tournament coincides with Kuwait’s Germany in the previous round but for Sport led by Sheikh Ahmad Al-Mansour National and Liberation days, adding that were trailing from the outset as Al-Sabah. He said we are happy to organize all is ready. Slovenia pulled 9-5 ahead after 11 minutes thanks to Dolenec. Jan Grebenc was also on target as Slovenia entered the last 15 minutes with a nine-goal advantage. But despite a late fightback and eight goals from French-born Bertrand Roine it was too late for the Qataris to come back. Earlier, Norway broke new ground at the world championships with Espen Lie Hansen, Sander Sagosen and goalkeeper Torbjorn Bergrund lay- ing the groundwork for their quar- ter-final win. The Norwegians, whose highest world ranking of six was back in 1958, will meet Croatia, the 2003 champi- MONTPELLIER: Spain’s Alex Dujshebae, centre, attempts a shot on goal past Croatia’s Jakov Gojun, left, ons, tomorrow for the other place in and Luka Stepancic, during the 25th men’s Handball World Championship match between Spain and Sunday’s final. —AFP Croatia, in Montpellier, southern France, Tuesday. — AP Red Bull Reign’s 3-on-3 basketball tournament

KUWAIT: In continuation with Red Bull’s habit and 16th in Marina Crescent Basketball Courts The game will be played on a court with cessful free throw will be awarded one point. earn the chance to compete in the 3◊3 World of staging offbeat sports events, Red Bull and concluding with the finals at the same one basket. Each team shall consist of three The regular playing time during the first Final this held in Washington, USA in Reign invites Kuwait’s top basketball players location on February 17th, in partnership with players and one substitute, with no coach on round will be eight minutes and 10 during the September 2017. to compete in the ultimate 3-on-3 battle, test- Acqua Eva, GoPro and Marina World. the playground. The game officials will consist second round, at which the game will be Each qualifier will host 24 teams, players 16 ing teams’ endurance, skills, teamwork, and Unlike most 3-on-3 tournaments, Red Bull of one or two referees and time/score keep- stopped in the last minute. The clock will be and above can submit an application for their ability to own their court while trying to accu- Reign will push teams to their utter physical ers. Both teams shall warm-up simultaneously also stop during dead ball situations and free team of four players to compete during the mulate the most points possible to outlast and mental limits. The rules of the high prior to the game and a coin flip shall deter- throws and only restarted after the exchange qualifying competitions in Kuwait. The quali- their opponents. endurance, offense-driven tournament are mine which team gets the first possession. of the ball is completed. However, the first fiers will be held on two consecutive days at Besides other qualifiers happening in 14 simple: the teams that score the overall points Every shot inside the arc will be awarded team to score 21 points or more wins the Marina Crescent Basketball courts on 15 and other countries this year, the local qualifiers in each round will advance and continue to one point while every shot behind the arc will game even if it happens before the end of the 16 February. For more information, visit: will take place this month, on February 15th compete in the final. count for two points. Accordingly, every suc- time. The Red Bull Reign final champions will www.redbull.com/reignkw THURSDAY, JANUARY 26 , 2017 SPORTS Japan ends painful wait for local-born ‘yokozuna’

TOKYO: Japan’s excruciating wait for a MONGOLIAN RISE homegrown yokozuna, or sumo grand But the subsequent rise of the champion, ended yesterday when 30- Mongolians, led by the brilliant but year-old Kisenosato was promoted to temperamental Asashoryu and latterly the ancient sport’s highest rank. A first Hakuho, who has racked up a record 37 Emperor’s Cup triumph at the weekend Emperor’s Cup victories since 2006, has was deemed good enough for him to tormented sumo traditionalists in the become the first Japan-born wrestler to absence of a Japanese challenge. reach the lofty perch since Wakanohana Mongolia, which boasts its own in 1998, although it took Kisenosato 73 ancient style of traditional wrestling, tournaments to get there-longer than currently boasts three yokozuna, with anyone since 1926. Harumafuji having won eight titles and “I accept with all humility,” the 178- Kakuryu three. Former ozeki (champi- kilo (392-pound) Kisenosato told on) Kotoshogiku last year ended a 10- reporters at a formal ceremony after year wait for a Japanese Emperor’s Cup being approved by the Japan Sumo winner, briefly raising local hopes, but Association (JSA). failed to build on that momentum, “I will devote myself to the role much to the JSA’s chagrin. Mongolia’s and try not to disgrace the title of stranglehold over the sport, which yokozuna. “I feel a sense of relief,” retains many Shinto religious over- added the native of Ibaraki prefec- tones, has prompted hand-wringing in ture, northeast of Tokyo, before pos- sumo’s corridors of power, none more ing for photos while holding up a so than when Hakuho surpassed the giant sea bream — a traditional sym- legendary Taiho to win a record 33rd bol of celebration in Japan. title two years ago. “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for Japanese sumo officials have been all the people who have helped me accused of being overly harsh on reach this point.” Historians claim sumo Mongolian wrestlers, with critics insist- dates back more than two millennia ing they lack “dignity”, but even defend- but the roly-poly sport been plagued ers acknowledge that Asashoryu broke TORONTO: Toronto Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas (17) rebounds over San Antonio Spurs guards Danny Green (14), Bryn Forbes (11), Patty by a series of damaging scandals in protocol with alarming regularity. The Mills (8) and Manu Ginobili (20) during the second half of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, in Toronto. — AP recent years. It had been without a firebrand grappler won 25 Emperor’s Japanese yokozuna since Cups before retiring in 2010 after being Wakanohana’s brother Takanohana accused of breaking a man’s nose in a retired in 2003 as local wrestlers have drunken brawl outside a Tokyo night- Aldridge spurs San been unable to repel a flood of foreign- club. Previously he had infamously pro- ers who have dominated since. voked a soapy bathtub brawl with a rival “I would like to celebrate the first and was banned for forging a doctor’s yokozuna promotion in 19 years from note for a back injury, only to be caught Antonio past Raptors the bottom of my heart,” Japan’s Deputy on camera playing football wearing a Chief Cabinet Secretary Koichi Hagiuda Wayne Rooney shirt. Meanwhile, allega- TORONTO: LaMarcus Aldridge scored 21 told a daily press briefing. tions of illegal betting and links with points while Patty Mills added 18 off the bench “Kisenosato indeed has the neces- crime syndicates, drugs busts and the NBA Results/Standings as the San Antonio Spurs beat the Toronto sary dignity and skill to carve his name bullying death of a young wrestler have Raptors 108-106 on Tuesday night for their fifth in history.” The overseas invasion began shaken the closeted world of sumo to its Denver 103, Utah 93; Minnesota 112, Phoenix 111; San Antonio 108, Toronto 106; Philadelphia 121, LA Clippers 110; straight victory. Without Kawhi Leonard, Tony Washington 123, Boston 108; Chicago 100, Orlando 92. in earnest with Hawaiian behemoth foundations in recent years. “My behav- Parker and Pau Gasol, the Spurs completed a Konishiki, who was nicknamed ‘Dump iour will come under close scrutiny,” said Eastern Conference Western Conference season sweep of the Raptors following a 110- Truck’ and tipped the scales at a whop- a solemn Kisenosato. “The yokozuna Atlantic Division Northwest Division 82 home victory earlier this month. Kyle Lowry ping 285 kilos (628 pounds), and other rank carries heavy responsibility. The real W L PCT GB Utah 29 18 .617 - had 30 points and reserve Terrence Ross added Toronto 28 17 .622 - hulking Pacific islanders in the 1990s. battle starts now.” —AFP Oklahoma City 26 19 .578 2 21 for the Raptors, who have lost four in a row Boston 26 18 .591 1.5 Denver 19 25 .432 8.5 for the first time since March 4-10, 2015. NY Knicks 20 26 .435 8.5 Portland 19 27 .413 9.5 Philadelphia 16 27 .372 11 Minnesota 17 28 .378 11 Brooklyn 9 35 .205 18.5 Pacific Division 76ERS 121, CLIPPERS 110 Central Division Golden State 38 7 .844 - Nerlens Noel scored 19 points while Cleveland 30 13 .698 - LA Clippers 30 17 .638 9 Richaun Holmes had 18 as Philadelphia beat Chicago 23 23 .500 8.5 Sacramento 17 27 .386 20.5 Los Angeles. Here was a twist ending not even Indiana 22 22 .500 8.5 LA Lakers 16 32 .333 23.5 M. Night Shyamalan could have scripted from Milwaukee 21 23 .477 9.5 Detroit 21 25 .457 10.5 Phoenix 15 30 .333 23 his courtside seat: The Sixers played without Southwest Division injured center Joel Embiid and still beat Blake Southeast Division Atlanta 26 19 .578 - San Antonio 36 9 .800 - Griffin and the 30-win Clippers for their biggest Washington 25 20 .556 1 Houston 34 14 .708 3.5 victory of the season. The Sixers rallied from 19 Charlotte 23 22 .511 3 Memphis 26 20 .565 10.5 points down and proved yet again they are Orlando 18 29 .383 9 New Orleans 18 27 .400 18 now a team trying to win games instead of Miami 15 30 .333 11 Dallas 15 29 .341 20.5 tank seasons. Embiid, out with a left knee con- tusion, waved his arms from the bench as the crowd shouted “Trust the Process” in the wan- ing minutes of the victory. Griffin scored 12 points on 3-of-11 shooting in his first game O’Shea urges Italy to end since Dec. 18.

WIZARDS 123, CELTICS 108 Six Nations drop debate Bradley Beal scored 13 of his 31 points in the fourth quarter as Washington extended its LONDON: Italy coach Conor O’Shea has urged brated win over the All Blacks in 1978 had home winning streak to 14 games with a victo- his side to end the debate over their Six been for the game in Ireland. ry over Boston. John Wall added 27 points and Nations status during this season’s tourna- “To me that win, it’s massive,” said O’Shea of Markieff Morris had 19 points and 11 rebounds ment. There were renewed calls for promotion Italy’s tense triumph over South Africa. and relegation in the Six Nations, which could “I’m fortunate I’m working in a country as the Wizards never trailed while scoring their assist the likes of Georgia and Romania, fol- steeped in tradition, but we’re very aware of most points this season. It came in a game they lowing Italy’s poor showing last year. its future. “With my Irish hat on of Munster openly labeled a grudge match, even arriving Not only did Italy lose all five of their beating the All Blacks in 1978 is something at the Verizon Center in funeral-themed black matches, they suffered several thrashings that’s always spoken about. clothing. Isaiah Thomas scored 25 points and including a 67-14 hammering by Wales-their “While we know how much we have to had 13 assists, but shot 1 of 7 in the fourth Rome opponents in the first round of this sea- learn, we showed the potential the team has if quarter in Boston’s third straight loss. son’s edition on February 5. we play with that intensity and passion. TOKYO: Accompanied by stable master Tagonoura (bottom-r), Tagonoura’s wife (bot- But former Ireland fullback O’Shea, “The win over South Africa could be like tom-l) and supporters, sumo wrestler Kisenosato (C) holds up a big sea bream to cel- BULLS 100, MAGIC 92 installed as Italy coach last year after he left that Munster win for us, but only if we make ebrate his promotion to the top rank of “yokozuna” after meeting with representa- Dwyane Wade scored 21 points and Jimmy English Premiership side Harlequins, has had that the case. “You give people something to tives from the Japan Sumo Association in Tokyo yesterday. — AFP Butler added 20 as Chicago beat Orlando for its an encouraging start to his time in charge of cling on to, you give them hope, a match they second straight victory. Facing an Orlando the Azzurri, overseeing their first-ever win can look at and realise it’s not mythical. team that was missing three of its four top over South Africa in November. “But all we want to do now is prepare to try guards, Wade and Butler took full advantage “Italy have earned their right to be in the to beat Wales.” O’Shea said his long-term goal with drives to the basket and pull-up jumpers Six Nations,” said O’Shea at yesterday’s tourna- was to make Italy a side no opponent looked Jones confirms Hartley as the Bulls pulled away in the fourth quarter. ment launch in London. forward to playing. The turnover-prone Magic simply could not “If ever promotion and relegation were the “We want to get to the World Cup in 2019 as England captain keep pace with a Bulls team that is going case, who knows who would be at the bottom and be in a pool where people say ‘oh, I don’t through point guard issues of its own with the by the time that comes? “If we get our system want to play Italy’. “What I want from my play- LONDON: Eddie Jones ended the spec- defence coach Paul Gustard) on that,” he surprising benching of Michael Carter- right and look after ourselves then we don’t ers is just an unbelievable work ethic. You ulation over the England captaincy yes- said. “We always want to tackle low, but Williams. Nikola Vucevic had 20 points for the have to have those conversations.” O’Shea should never be afraid of that,” who has terday by confirming Dylan Hartley was there are times when as a second man, Magic, who have dropped two straight and 11 added: “We just want to earn people’s respect retained Italy great Sergio Parisse as his cap- set to lead the side in their Six Nations low isn’t an option,” added the 79-times of their last 14 games. this year, and see where that takes us.” tain. “The great Italian football teams were opener against France next month. capped Hartley. “It’s about for me, my based on incredible defence, but with magic Northampton hooker Hartley, who arms, bring them tighter to my body, fol- TIMBERWOLVES 112, SUNS 111 ‘MASSIVE WIN’ on top. You get that balance. And we need to O’Shea said the Azzurri’s 20-18 defeat of be unbelievably difficult to play against. last season captained England to a Six lowing through with those, then the Andrew Wiggins sank an 18-foot pull-up the Springboks would become as iconic “But then you need the magic on top that Nations Grand Slam, was given a six- shoulder, rather than the arm.” Jones jumper at the buzzer to give Minnesota a victo- moment for Italian rugby as Munster’s cele- people like Sergio Parisse always offer.” — AFP week ban after being sent off for striking compared World Rugby’s changes to the ry over Phoenix. Wiggins, who scored 31 points, Sean O’Brien during the Saints’ defeat by introduction of speed cameras on roads. made one of two free throws with 12.1 seconds Leinster on December 3. “It’s always been illegal to tackle the remaining to put the Timberwolves ahead. P.J. But despite not having played a com- head of an opposition player, so in that Tucker sank two from the foul line to give petitive match for some two months, sense nothing’s changed,” he explained. Phoenix a 111-110 lead with 6.3 seconds left, the New Zealand-born front-row is on “You put speed cameras in and what just enough time for Wiggins’ game-winner. course to captain England against happens-hundreds of thousands of peo- Devin Booker overcame a slow start to make 5 France at Twickenham on February 4. ple get fined. “A year later the fines of 6 shots in the fourth quarter, three of them 3 With Hartley alongside him at the Six decrease. It’s the same with high tackles. pointers, for 26 points for the Suns. Tyson Nations tournament launch in London “It will be the same until people learn to on Wednesday, England coach Jones ‘drive safely’, and safely is within the Chandler had a season-high 22 points and said: “Well I haven’t actually told him yet. speed limit.” grabbed 17 rebounds for Phoenix. Eric Bledsoe Shall I say now? “Okay, I’d like to officially Jones arrived at the launch sporting a added 18 points, including a three-point play announce Dylan’s the captain.” Hartley, black eye, having bruised his face while that tied it at 109 with 1:05 remaining. who has missed more than a year of his slipping in a hotel shower earlier yester- career because of a variety of suspen- day. The Australian, who has won all 13 NUGGETS 103, JAZZ 93 sions, insisted he was ready to face of his matches in charge of England Nikola Jokic had 23 points and 11 rebounds, France. “I’m confident, I feel fresh, I feel since taking over following the 2015 Jameer Nelson scored seven of his 17 points in fit, and focused,” he said. “I know where I World Cup, had a wound dressing the last four minutes and Denver held on to need to be,” he added before Jones around his left eye. beat Utah. The Nuggets led by 17 with a interjected: “He’s had 60 weeks off mate, Jones joked about his injuries by minute left in the third quarter before the Jazz he’s a world expert.” Hartley’s latest ban referring to England’s martial arts-train- made their push. Rudy Gobert scored eight of came shortly before World Rugby intro- ing sessions. “So first we had judo then his 11 in the fourth and Boris Diaw’s reverse duced new and stiffer penalties for dan- we had MMA (mixed martial arts). We’re layup cut the lead to 92-88 with 2:49 remain- gerous, head-high, tackles. just going through all the martial arts ing. But Denver countered with an 8-0 run and and seeing what happened on the Nelson’s 3-pointer pushed the lead back to ‘SPEED LIMIT’ body,” Jones said. “I just slipped over in 100-88 with 1:17 remaining. The Nuggets held Hartley, 30, accepted he would have the hotel this morning. “My mother on from there for their fifth win in seven LONDON: From left to right, Italy rugby team captain Sergio Parisse, Ireland captain Rory to change his game. “The much-docu- always told me I had to shave, I walked games. Darrell Arthur added 16 points off the Best, Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw, England captain Dylan Hartley, France captain Guilhem Guirado and Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones pose next to the Six Nations trophy mented tackle technique, I’ve been out of the shower, forgot to shave and bench. Derrick Favors scored 18, George Hill during the 6 Nations media launch at The Hurlingham Club, London yesterday. — AP working very hard with Gussie (England this is what happens.” — AFP had 17 and Diaw added 16 for Utah. — AP THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 SPORTS

Rest over as Patriots begin Super Bowl prep for Falcons

FOXBOROUGH: Bill Belichick is on to the Houston, having won in 2004 on Adam “They have some of their own charac- championship game win over Green Bay, group has a vibe in the locker room that Atlanta Falcons. After taking a day to Vinatieri’s field goal in the closing sec- teristics and of course the players are dif- but will be challenged by a New England is unique. It is a dynamic that he’s looking review and recharge following his team’s onds to beat the Carolina Panthers. ferent, so that makes it different,” secondary that has given up just two forward to seeing grow over these next AFC championship game win over “There was a big matchup against our Belichick said. “But schematically there is passing touchdowns in the playoffs. “He’s two weeks. “If you play at this point in the Pittsburgh, the New England coach said kind of ‘no-name’ offensive line and a quite a bit of carryover.” probably just one of the most dynamic season, you play this late in the season Tuesday that the coaching staff’s prepara- very good defensive front that the One of the key differences, he said, is players in the league,” Patriots defensive and you’re blessed enough to do that, I tions are fully underway for the Super Panthers had,” Belichick recalled. that the Falcons seem to bring a little coordinator Matt Patricia said. “I usually think the guys just have that kind of spe- Bowl. The Patriots are preparing to make But Belichick says that’s the furthest more pressure than Seattle ran. Belichick don’t wind up comparing him to other cial bond,” he said. their seventh Super Bowl berth during thing from his mind as his team prepares also sees similarities in the schemes, people; I wind up comparing other peo- “They have a good time with each the Belichick era, making them veterans for a Falcons team it hasn’t seen much on which rely on players of similar skillsets ple to him just because of his skill set and other but they also know when we’re in at this point in handling the various logis- film this season with just five common such as Seattle’s Kam Chancellor and his ability.” The team will have meetings the meetings, we’re grinding, we’re work- tics involved with the big game. Belichick opponents (San Francisco, Los Angeles, Atlanta’s Keanu Neal. “Go right down the Wednesday and then return to the prac- ing, we’re studying. “When those guys said it’s helped them turn the page Seattle, Arizona and Denver). line - they’re similar,” Belichick said. This tice field today. communicate like that and they have that “about as quickly as we could.” The Patriots do have some familiarity will also be the second straight game that Patricia is in his fifth season leading kind of open dialect back and forth, I “We’re on to Atlanta now as a coach- with Falcons coach Dan Quinn, who was the Patriots defense will have to contend the Patriots’ defense, but has been a New think it just kind of enhances everything ing staff. We’re deep in the middle of defensive coordinator of the Seattle with a dynamic receiver. England assistant since 2004. While he’s that goes on, hopefully, when you get them,” he said. New England has fond Seahawks when the teams met in the Julio Jones had nine receptions for witnessed the interactions of several dif- out to the practice field and to the field memories of the Super Bowl played in Super Bowl two years ago. 180 yards and two scores in Atlanta’s NFC ferent teams in that time, he said this itself.” —AP

All eyes on rising star Noren at Qatar Masters

DOHA: After his stellar finish to 2016, shots that are quite low percentage. “I don’t which saw him win four European Tour have really the bad shots as often as I did tournaments, Alex Noren is the man to before.” Noren’s previous best performance watch at this week’s Qatar Masters. in Doha was a tie for fourth place in 2013 In-form Noren, the world number 10, is and he also finished ninth two years later. the highest ranked player in a Doha field He is likely to be pushed hard for the which also includes former US Open win- $416,660 first prize by Spaniard Cabrera ner Graeme McDowell, Rafa Cabrera Bello Bello, who has three top-three finishes in and in-form Tommy Fleetwood. Qatar, and has likened conditions in the The Swede, who averages almost 290 Gulf to his Canary Islands birthplace. yards driving, is also well-suited to a course Fleetwood, straight from winning the which rewards length off the tee, especially Abu Dhabi championship on Sunday, is in the windy conditions expected to face looking to improve on a top 10 finish last players this week. year in Qatar and, naturally, feels confident. But despite the extra attention Noren is “I actually feel like this course suits me receiving after winning the Scottish Open, more than last week,” he said. European and British Masters and the “A lot of the holes sort of set up better to Nedbank Golf Challenge in the final five my eye. This one kind of fits my eye a little months of last year, the 34-year-old says he bit more. “We’ll see how we do. My game is undaunted by the increased expectation. shouldn’t have gone off too much... hope- “I feel it (the pressure) as a positive. It fully we’ll carry on.” CHICAGO: Artem Anisimov #15 of the Chicago Blackhawks turns to pass against Nikita Nesterov #89 of the Tampa Bay Lightning at the United gives me a lot of satisfaction,” he told This is the 20th year of the Qatar Masters Center on Tuesday in Chicago, Illinois. The Lightning defeated the Blackhawks 5-2. — AFP reporters on Tuesday. and previous winners include Adam Scott, “I came here, I think 2006 on a wildcard. Henrik Stenson and Sergio Garcia. I got an invite and shot millions. It feels dif- The past two tournaments have been ferent coming here this time. I feel better won by South African Branden Grace, but Blues defeat Penguins as than that.” Asked to explain his dramatic he is not competing this time round. improvement, Noren said it was mostly This year sees the tournament finishing down to reducing the errors in his game. for the first time on a Sunday, rather than Saturday to coincide with the final day of Lightning beat Blackhawks PUSHED HARD the weekend in the Gulf. This switch has “The skill level has not increased dra- been made to try and increase global tele- matically. It’s more that I, well, I just know vision viewing figures for the event, tourna- PITTSBURGH: Carter Hutton stopped 34 shots my game better. “So I’m not going for ment organisers said. — AFP for his sixth career shutout to lead the St. Louis NHL results/standings Blues to a 3-0 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday. Colton Parayko, Ryan Tampa Bay 5, Chicago 2; Minnesota 3, Dallas 2 (SO); Buffalo 5, Nashville 4 (OT); San Jose 4, Winnipeg 3; Montreal 5, Reaves and Scottie Upshall scored to help the Calgary 1; Ottawa 3, Washington 0; Boston 4, Detroit 3 (OT); Los Angeles 3, New Jersey 1; NY Islanders 4, Columbus McDowell targets return Blues end a three-game losing streak. Matt 2; St. Louis 3, Pittsburgh 0. Murray finished with 24 saves for the Penguins, Western Conference Ottawa 26 15 5 125 120 57 DOHA: Major winner Graeme McDowell “It was very motivating, very inspiring. who had their four-game winning streak Central Division snapped. Boston 24 21 6 127 132 54 said yesterday he is targeting a return to When I look to France to 2018, a golf course WLOTLGFGAPTS Toronto 22 14 9 140 131 53 Minnesota 31 11 5 155 108 67 golf’s top table despite a barren few years which I love, I certainly want to be there, Florida 20 19 10 114 136 50 and a slump to number 91 in the world. that’s for sure.” LIGHTNING 5, BLACKHAWKS 2 Chicago 30 15 5 139 127 65 Tyler Johnson scored two goals 30 seconds Nashville 23 17 8 134 127 54 Buffalo 20 18 9 115 132 49 Speaking ahead of this week’s Qatar Despite his loss in form in recent years, St. Louis 24 19 5 137 147 53 Detroit 20 19 9 123 140 49 Masters, the 2010 US Open winner, who McDowell still remains one of the biggest apart early in the third period to lead Tampa Bay past Chicago and end a three-game slide. Brian Dallas 19 20 10 131 154 48 Tampa Bay 22 22 5 135 144 49 was once ranked as high as number four in attractions at this week’s tournament in a Winnipeg 22 25 4 145 158 48 Metropolitan Division Boyle had a goal and an assist while Nikita Colorado 13 30 2 91 153 28 the world, McDowell admitted his recent field which includes rising stars such as Washington 32 10 6 155 104 70 form has not been “good enough”. Alex Noren and Tommy Fleetwood as well Nesterov and Nikita Kucherov also scored for the Pacific Division Lightning, who broke loose for three goals in a San Jose 31 16 2 134 112 64 Columbus 32 11 4 157 110 68 “My on-course performance has not as veterans Ernie Els and Jose Maria Pittsburgh 30 12 5 169 137 65 been... good enough the last few years,” the Olazabal. 3:57 span of the third to erase a 2-1 deficit. Anaheim 27 14 9 133 125 63 Edmonton 26 15 8 144 131 60 NY Rangers 31 16 1 167 127 63 37-year-old told reporters. “I guess coming Also playing is the European team’s Jonathan Toews had a goal and an assist while Calgary 24 24 3 131 147 51 Philadelphia 23 19 6 136 154 52 to the start of the next few years, I’ve tried 2018 Ryder Cup captain, Thomas Bjorn. This Duncan Keith also scored for the Blackhawks. Los Angeles 23 21 4 120 121 50 NY Islanders 20 17 9 133 135 49 to view it as a long road back toward the year is the 20th edition of the Qatar Vancouver 22 20 6 116 135 50 top of the game. Masters, which is part of the European SENATORS 3, CAPITALS 0 Arizona 15 26 6 105 152 36 Carolina 21 19 7 126 137 49 “That’s where I want to be again, give Tour’s “Desert Swing”, which sees tourna- Mike Condon stopped 31 shots for his fourth Eastern Conference New Jersey 20 20 9 111 139 49 myself chances to win major champi- ments in Abu Dhabi and Dubai as well as shutout of the season as Ottawa defeated Atlantic Division Note: Overtime losses (OTL) are worth one point in the Montreal 29 13 7 149 122 65 onships again. I know I’ve got a lot of Qatar, in the first two months of the season. Washington. Chris Kelly, Bobby Ryan and Zack standings and are not included in the loss column (L) things to work on.” Past winners in Doha include Adam Smith scored for the Senators while Phillipp The Northern Irishman, now based in Scott, Henrik Stenson and Sergio Garcia. Grubauer made 31 saves. to capitalize on four power plays, including a Cody McLeod and Viktor Arvidsson scored for Florida with a young family, has not won a This year, players will battle it out for a two-man advantage for 1:44 midway through the Predators, while Calle Jarnkrok had two tournament in almost three years. $416,660 first prize. The 2017 tournament WILD 3, STARS 2, SO the first period. assists. Nashville held a 4-2 lead late in the third He also missed out on selection for last is finishing for the first time on a Sunday, Chris Stewart scored in the fifth round of a period before Gionta scored at 14:10. Then, with year’s Ryder Cup at Hazeltine, and said he rather than Saturday to coincide with the shootout to lift Minnesota over Dallas. Patrick CANADIENS 5, FLAMES 1 Sabres goaltender Robin Lehner pulled for an was desperate to be back in the team for final day of the weekend in the Gulf, to Eaves and Jamie Benn had scored for the Stars in Alexander Radulov scored twice as Montreal extra skater, Okposo tipped home a pass from 2018. “I think that certainly was a big week try and bump up global television audi- the shootout, but Jason Pominville and Mikko extended Calgary’s losing streak to four games. Sam Reinhart with 1:05 remaining to send the for me to sit at home and watch that. ences. — AFP Koivu matched them. Wild goalie Devan Dubnyk Andrew Shaw, Tomas Plekanec and Daniel Carr also game into overtime. Lehner stopped 35 shots. stopped Jason Spezza before Stewart’s shot won scored for the Canadiens (29-13-7). Carey Price the game. Pominville and Koivu scored in regula- made 30 saves and even had an assist. Sam Bennett SHARKS 4, JETS 3 tion for Minnesota and Dubnyk had 35 saves scored with a second left for the Flames (24-24-3) Patrick Marleau scored the tiebreaking goal through overtime. Eaves and Tyler Seguin scored while Chad Johnson stopped 15 of 20 shots. with 4:33 left in the third period to lift San Jose for Dallas and Kari Lehtonen finished with 31 over Winnipeg for its sixth straight win. Brent saves. Spezza had two assists. SABRES 5, PREDATORS 4, OT Burns, Logan Couture and Melker Karlsson also Jack Eichel scored two goals, including the scored for the Sharks. Aaron Dell stopped 31 shots. BRUINS 4, RED WINGS 3, OT game-winner at 2:35 of overtime to give Buffalo Bryan Little scored twice and Andrew Copp had a David Pastrnak scored with 46.9 seconds left a comeback victory over Nashville. Zemgus goal for the Jets. Winnipeg defensemen Dustin on the clock in overtime as Boston rallied to beat Girgensons, Brian Gionta and Kyle Okposo also Byfuglien and Josh Morrissey each had two assists, Detroit. Pastrnak beat goalie Jared Coreau with a scored for the Sabres. James Neal, Filip Forsberg, and Ondrej Pavelec made 22 saves. — AP high slap shot and ended the Bruins’ four-game losing streak (0-3-1). Brad Marchand had two goals, Kevan Miller scored and Pastrnak also had an assist for Boston. Tuukka Rask stopped 23 shots. Mike Green had a goal and an assist for the Red Wings. Andreas Athanasiou and Tomas Tatar also scored, and Henrik Zetterberg added two assists.

ISLANDERS 4, BLUE JACKETS 2 Nikolay Kulemin scored a goal and helped create another as New York chased All-Star goalie Sergei Bobrovsky in a win over Columbus. The Islanders are 3-0-1 under interim coach Doug Weight a week after Jack Capuano was fired. Thomas Greiss made 21 saves. Kulemin put New York ahead late in the second period and created space in front for Josh Bailey’s 100th NHL goal earlier in the period. Jason Chimera got his fifth goal in seven games and Brock Nelson also scored for the Islanders. John Tavares had two assists. Nick Foligno had an ear- ly score for Columbus and Cam Atkinson got his 24th goal late.

KINGS 3, DEVILS 1 Anze Kopitar and Tanner Pearson scored in the opening 1:46 as Los Angeles snapped a four- game losing streak with a victory over New Jersey. Kings defenseman Alec Martinez capped the team’s three-goal first period and Peter Budaj stopped 24 shots in his 21st win of the season. Jeff Carter had the primary assist on the first two goals. Kyle Quincey scored in the third period for New Jersey, which has lost five DALLAS: Chris Stewart #7 of the Minnesota Wild scores the game winning goal against Kari SAN DIEGO: Tiger Woods watches his tee shot on the third hole of the north course straight at home. Los Angeles was outstanding Lehtonen #32 of the Dallas Stars in a shootout at American Airlines Center on Tuesday in Dallas, during the Pro-Am event of the Farmers Insurance Open golf tournament yesterday, on special teams. Kopitar scored a power-play Texas. — AFP in San Diego. — AP goal on the Kings’ first shot and the Devils failed THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 SPORTS

Froome expects Porte to offer stern test in Geelong

LONDON: Three-times Tour de France begins his quest for a fourth Tour de in July. “It’s still very early obviously in McCarthy, and Nathan Haas-in the top he added. champion Chris Froome expects local France title in earnest at Sunday’s 174- the season and it’s probably too early four of the Tour Down Under, Froome “Every edition will be different but favourite Richie Porte to push him all km one-day race, which starts in to be talking favourites for the Tour,” anticipates a strong challenge from the organisers have done a great job the way to the finish when the Briton Geelong, south-west of Melbourne. Froome was quoted as saying by the local riders, especially over the steep of putting in a course that is so unpre- kicks off his 2017 season at the UCI’s The 31-year-old Briton did not take Australian Associated Press. Chalambra climb that marks the fin- dictable. It is just a very open race.” World Tour event in Victoria on part in this year’s Tour Down Under, “I’ve always had a lot of confidence ishing circuit. Froome will head into the five-day Sunday. which Porte won ahead of Colombia’s in Richie’s abilities and always said he’s “Certainly for Sunday, I’d expect Herald Sun tour, which races around Froome will ride in the Towards Esteban Chaves, and said it was pre- a Tour de France contender,” the Briton Richie to be up there on that final northern Victoria and begins in central Zero Race around Melbourne’s mature to be talking about who the added of his former Team Sky team climb, as I’d expect Esteban, and Melbourne with a prologue on Feb. 1, Formula One circuit on Thursday but main contenders would be in France mate. With three Australians-Porte, Jay Nathan to be hanging on for dear life,” after Sunday’s race. — Reuters

English Football League Tables

English Football League tables after Tuesday’s matches (played, won, drawn, lost, goals for, goals against, points):

Championship League One Brighton 27 18 6 3 43 18 60 Sheffield Utd 29 17 6 6 53 34 57 Newcastle 27 19 1 7 54 21 58 Scunthorpe 27 16 7 4 53 26 55 Reading 27 15 4 8 39 36 49 Bolton 26 15 5 6 35 19 50 Huddersfield 27 15 4 8 32 3049 Fleetwood Town28 14 7 7 42 29 49 Leeds 27 15 3 9 37 27 48 Bradford 28 11 13 4 34 23 46 Sheff Wed 27 13 6 8 31 2645 Rochdale 27 14 3 10 41 36 45 Derby 27 12 7 8 27 21 43 Southend 27 11 9 7 39 34 42 Barnsley 27 12 5 10 46 41 41 Peterborough 27 11 8 8 40 33 41 Fulham 27 10 10 7 44 32 40 Millwall 27 11 7 9 42 40 40 Norwich 27 12 4 11 45 40 40 Bristol Rovers 28 11 6 11 47 50 39 Preston 27 11 7 9 37 34 40 AFC Wimbledon27 9 10 8 38 33 37 Birmingham 27 9 10 8 31 36 37 Oxford Utd 27 10 7 10 34 30 37 Aston Villa 27 8 12 7 28 27 36 Walsall 27 9 10 8 33 35 37 Ipswich 27 9 7 11 28 33 34 Charlton 26 8 12 6 33 26 36 Brentford 27 9 6 12 34 35 33 Port Vale 26 8 8 10 29 39 32 Cardiff 27 9 6 12 31 4133 Milton 26 8 7 11 34 37 31 QPR 27 9 6 12 26 37 33 Gillingham 27 8 7 12 34 43 31 Wolverhampton27 8 8 11 34 37 32 Northampton 28 8 6 14 39 48 30 Nottm Forest 27 8 6 13 38 45 30 Swindon 28 7 8 13 27 41 29 Bristol City 27 8 3 16 35 39 27 Shrewsbury 28 7 7 14 27 40 28 Wigan 27 6 7 14 24 32 25 Bury 28 7 5 16 43 55 26 Burton Albion 27 6 7 14 26 37 25 Chesterfield 28 7 5 16 28 4526 PORT-GENTIL: Democratic Republic of the Congo’s midfielder Paul Jose Mpoku (L) scores a free kick goal during the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations Blackburn 27 6 7 14 32 44 25 Oldham 27 5 10 12 15 28 25 group C football match between Togo and DR Congo in Port-Gentil on Tuesday. — AFP Rotherham 27 4 4 19 27 60 16 Coventry 27 4 9 14 23 39 21 Holders Ivory Coast ousted Coutinho pens from Africa Cup of Nations

OYEM: Defending champions the Ivory Coast competition begins with the knockout matches, goalkeeper Cedric Mensah for the opener just ‘long-term’ were sent packing from the Africa Cup of which will be much like this one, and we will before the half-hour mark and he also headed Nations on Tuesday after losing 1-0 to a Morocco need a winning mentality,” Renard said. against the post prior to the interval. side coached by their old boss Herve Renard. Alioui, of French second-tier side Nimes, Neeskens Kebano of Fulham lobbed in the A brilliant Rachid Alioui goal gave Morocco curled in a sublime long-range effort at the end second goal nine minutes into the second peri- Liverpool deal the victory in Oyem in northern Gabon as the of a counterattack just past the hour mark to od after latching onto Marcel Tisserand’s punt Atlas Lions marched on to the quarter-finals break the deadlock and leave the Ivorians need- downfield. alongside DR Congo. ing to score twice to stay alive. They could not. Kodjo Fo-Doh Laba pulled one back for Togo LONDON: Brazilian playmaker artful attacking midfielder and set- An impressive Congolese side eased to a 3-1 “It is an immense disappointment. My but a Paul-Jose Mpoku free-kick with 10 minutes Philippe Coutinho has committed his piece specialist with an eye for the win against Togo in the night’s other game in thoughts go out to all Ivorians who are going left that struck the underside of the bar and future to Liverpool by signing a new spectacular, Coutinho has been Port-Gentil as they sealed top spot in Group C. through a difficult time,” said their French coach came down just over the line secured the win. “long-term” contract, the Premier capped 23 times by Brazil, scoring six But it is the elimination of the Elephants, win- Michel Dussuyer. “I take responsibility. We did “Having gone top of the group after two League giants announced yesterday. goals. He has been in sparkling form ners in 2015 after a penalty shoot-out against not fulfil our objectives. Our ambition was to get rounds of games we needed to remain vigilant Liverpool did not reveal details of the this season, scoring six goals in 18 Ghana, that overshadows all else. Their depar- past the first round and retain our title. It is and we did that,” said Ibenge. deal, but reports suggest Coutinho games, and was badly missed by ture is the latest blow to the tournament follow- going to be a difficult night,” he added as he “They gave us a fright after we had gone 2-0 has signed a five-year contract worth Liverpool after sustaining an ankle ing premature exits for hosts Gabon and much- refused to be drawn on his future in the job. up and had we not matured as a team thanks to between £150,000 ($188,800, 175,650 ligament injury in November that fancied Algeria in the last few days. the two years we have spent together we might euros) and £200,000 per week. kept him out for seven weeks. And for the fourth consecutive Cup of DRC UNDERLINE CREDENTIALS have panicked.” Togo and their captain Coutinho, 24, joined Liverpool from Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp Nations, the reigning champions will be absent As the Ivorians prepare to go home, Morocco Emmanuel Adebayor were given a guard of hon- Inter Milan in a £8.5 million move in said Coutinho’s new contract, which is from the quarter-finals, but the winning coach will now head to Port-Gentil for a quarter-final our at the end by the Congolese players but they January 2013 and has since become not thought to include a release from two years ago will be in the last eight. while DR Congo make their way back to Oyem. go home having failed to register a win. the team’s attacking fulcrum, scoring clause, represented a “big statement”. The blond, bronzed 48-year-old, wearing his Florent Ibenge’s side needed just a draw to The group stage concludes later when Ghana 34 goals in 163 appearances. “He is truly world-class-in that very lucky white shirt, hopes to become the first qualify but a 3-1 win over Togo secured top spot and Egypt clash in Port-Gentil and Mali meet “Ever since my arrival here, I was top bracket,” Klopp said. “The fact he coach to win three Cup of Nations titles with and the manner of their performance on a already-eliminated Uganda in Oyem in Group D. welcomed with open arms by the sup- wants to stay here and be part of what three different countries having also won it with shocking pitch suggests the 2015 semi-finalists Egypt need a draw to secure progress to the porters and everyone at this football we are looking to build and develop Zambia in 2012. must be seen as genuine contenders to win the last eight along with Ghana, but if they slip up “Today we beat the Ivory Coast on a bad trophy now. Mali could take advantage by beating the club,” Coutinho said in comments shows his personal commitment is to pitch that proved to be a leveller. Now a new Junior Kabananga fired past Togo’s substitute Ugandans.— AFP published on the Liverpool website. make himself better and be an inte- “This is an important factor that gral part of something that is very carries weight when you decide to special. “We have total belief in our remain here for a longer period and project, but when a player of Phil’s cal- ‘Defining moment’ this did have a lot of weight when I ibre and status commits for this thought about the renewal of my length of time it shows that our faith contract. is shared throughout the game. for new-look “I can only thank every supporter “He knows he can fulfil his for their faith in me. I really hope to dreams and ambitions here at America’s Cup repay them. I will do my very best on Liverpool. This is a big statement. I the pitch to create assists for my look forward to seeing Phil create LONDON: A new framework agreement for the America’s team-mates and score goals for us to many more great memories and Cup, which will see costs slashed and the battle for sport’s try and win trophies and titles.” An moments for this club.” — AFP oldest trophy taking place every two years, was agreed yesterday and described as a “defining moment”. The agreement, supported by all but one of the teams taking part in this year’s spectacular, was unveiled at Garrard jewellers in London-chosen because it was where the impressive trophy was made in 1848. The accord will see the America’s Cup contested every two years instead of four while qualifiers-The America’s Cup World Series-will begin by the end of this year for the 2019 Luis Enrique edition. It is hoped that there will be 12 stops for the World Series which will encourage more teams and enthuse a new generation of sailors. The boats are also to see Enrique coy on future changes with just two crafts used in the World Series. The costs of fielding a team will be between $30-45mil- lion which the driving force behind the agreement, Martin as contract runs down Whitmarsh-Chief Executive Officer of Ben Ainslie Racing- said is a “significant reduction from current team budgets”. BARCELONA: Barcelona coach Luis Barcelona dugout. Two-time winner Jimmy Spithill, who aged 29 became Enrique avoided questions about his future In March 2016 he said: “I think in the the youngest skipper to win the America’s Cup when he tri- yesterday as speculation grows that he will modern era no one has been the Barcelona umphed for the first time in 2010 with Oracle, will captain leave the club at the end of the season coach for 20 years, only the chosen few Oracle again later this year and he was ecstatic about the when his contract with the Spanish cham- could handle such a long time at this club agreement. “This is the oldest sporting trophy,” he said. pions expires. The coach refused to com- and I think it’s impossible. If I could, I would “This is a defining moment and we have to ask ourselves ment on whether he felt his players wanted only sign six-month contracts. If at some why we didn’t do this earlier. “The reduction of costs is very him to remain in charge while speaking at a point I am not happy, why would I stay?” important and it makes me very optimistic for the future.” news conference ahead of Barcelona’s Luis Enrique originally signed a two-year Ainslie said the new-look event heralded a new dawn King’s Cup quarter-final second leg with deal when he took over in 2014 which he for the competition. The British sailor was instrumental in Real Sociedad. extended by an extra year in 2015 after the last America’s Cup four years ago when he was brought He also ducked a question asking if his Barca beat Juventus 3-1 in the Champions in as strategist at Oracle. assistant Juan Carlos Unzue, reported by League final in Berlin. the media to be Luis Enrique’s first choice Spanish media reports have long cited ‘YOUNG SAILORS DREAM’ to succeed him, was ready to take the reins Unzue, a former Barcelona reserve goal- They were trailing challenger Emirates Team New at the club, saying: “This question has noth- keeper, as Luis Enrique’s favoured choice to Zealand by 8-1 but went on to clinch the trophy in the ing to do with tomorrow’s game.” take over from him. Unzue was Luis deciding race. “We should see 10 or more teams, 12 The former Barcelona and Spain mid- Enrique’s assistant at Celta Vigo and is often events... this has a huge amount of potential,” said 37-year- fielder has won every trophy possible in the seen giving instructions from the sidelines, old Ainslie, who is the most successful yachtsman in two-and-a-half years since succeeding particularly at set pieces. Olympic history with four golds and a silver. Gerardo Martino in 2014, including succes- Other candidates touted by the media “Collaboration is the key here to the agreement. If you sive league titles and King’s Cups as well as as potential successors include Athletic look at the Cup it has had a complicated history. The key the 2015 Champions League. Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde, who had a shareholders coming together is great. “The key facts are Despite overseeing enormous success brief spell at Barcelona as forward, and the agreement on the class of boat and the timetable. on the pitch, the coach has long had a Sevilla’s Jorge Sampaoli, whose side are TUKWILA: Seattle Sounders including forward Clint Dempsey, center, and team cap- “This is a strong foundation stone and will I hope also spiky relationship with the Barcelona second in La Liga, one place above tain midfielder Osvaldo Alonso, second from right, jog during the first training ses- encourage young sailors to be able to dream of the possi- media and has declared in the past he does Barcelona, after taking a club record 42 sion of the 2017 MLS soccer season, Tuesday, in Tukwila, Wash.— AP bility of one day competing in an America’s Cup.”—AFP not envisage having a long career in the points from their first 19 games. — Reuters THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 SPORTS Mendieta wants Lim to change tack at Valencia

LONDON: Former Valencia midfield- told AFP during an interview in London through the dug-out since he took over left,” said Mendieta, who spent nine within his rights to speak out. “Of course er Gaizka Mendieta believes owner on Tuesday. “When managers keep in June 2014. The Singaporean busi- years at Valencia. “Through my experi- he’s allowed to do that,” said the 42- Peter Lim needs to adopt a more coming and going, when people on the nessman has faced open revolt from ence, I don’t see in the club people who year-old, who also played for Barcelona long-term approach to running the football side keep leaving, this is not a fans over Valencia’s recent struggles. know the club and the city and the and Lazio. “I think every manager is club, as they teeter above the La Liga good sign. That means the owners are Supporters took to the streets to call country and the league well enough to allowed to say whatever he wants, espe- relegation zone. not giving stability to the club. for his departure after the recent 4-1 make football decisions. “But Peter Lim cially if you feel fans are not really sup- Valencia have gone through five “It’s not a club that in the last two Copa del Rey defeat by Celta Vigo and is a mega-successful businessman, so porting your team when you most need coaches and three sporting directors in years has had any consistency and foot- fans on social media have rallied around I’m not going to tell him what to do.” them. “In the same way that fans have Lim’s two-and-a-half-year tenure, with ball needs that. Players coming and the hashtag #LimGoHome. Mendieta also offered words of sup- the right to express their opinion and Cesare Prandelli and Jesus Garcia going, all the players on loan, is some- Mendieta, blond-haired star of the port for his compatriot Aitor Karanka, maybe say: ‘Play in a certain way.’ Pitarch the latest figures to give up the thing that needs to be arranged.” Valencia team that reached the who is managing another of his former “Fans have to understand that the respective roles. Valencia finished fourth at the end of Champions League final in 2000 and clubs, Middlesbrough. team has been working in a way, not Voro Gonzalez is now in his fifth stint Lim’s first season in 2015, but slipped to 2001, thinks there are not enough peo- Karanka hit out at fans after Boro’s 3- only for that week, (but) for years or for as caretaker coach at the Mestalla and 12th last season and could now face a ple at boardroom level with a feel for 1 loss at home to West Ham United in months. If they want to play that way, with Valencia three places above the relegation battle, albeit having wit- what the club means. the Premier League last Saturday, accus- it’s for a reason.” bottom three, Mendieta says stability is nessed an upturn in results under Voro. ing them of creating an “awful” atmos- Mendieta will represent Spain at desperately needed. Juan Antonio Pizzi, Nuno Espirito KARANKA BACKING phere by “asking for long balls”. Star Sixes, a six-a-side indoor tourna- “The owners should maybe change Santo, Gary Neville, Pako Ayestaran and “It seems from outside there’s not Karanka is reported to have ment for former international foot- the way they’re running the club, former Italy coach Prandelli, who enough football people in the club, expressed regret over his outburst to ballers taking place at London’s O2 because it’s definitely not working,” he resigned last month, have all passed especially now the sporting director has club officials, but Mendieta feels he was Arena in July. —AFP Carrick says Man Utd will go for it at Hull

LONDON: Michael Carrick has pledged and celebrate victories and win things, lift that Manchester United will not rest on trophies, have a good day out and enjoy it.” their laurels when they travel to Hull City looking to close out victory in their League MASON SUPPORT Cup semi-final. United won 2-0 in the first United captain Wayne Rooney will go leg at Old Trafford courtesy of second-half into the game with a spring in his step, hav- strikes from Juan Mata and Marouane ing scored a record-breaking 250th goal in Fellaini, putting them within reach of a final the club’s colours with a stoppage-time showdown with either Liverpool or free-kick to equalise at Stoke. Southampton. But Hull have shown signs Mourinho will be able to recall centre- of improvement under new manager back Marcos Rojo after he missed the Stoke Marco Silva, giving Premier League leaders trip through illness, meaning Eric Bailly, Chelsea a decent game in Sunday’s 2-0 who is at the Africa Cup of Nations with defeat at Stamford Bridge, and Carrick says Ivory Coast, is the only expected absentee. United will take no chances. “It’s definitely Hull’s preparations for the game have been not over, we all know that,” the 35-year-old overshadowed by the serious head injury midfielder told MUTV. suffered at Chelsea by midfielder Ryan “We are telling ourselves that. I think Mason. Mason, 25, had to undergo surgery we’ll be pretty much full-strength and will at a London hospital after fracturing his approach the game like it’s a 0-0 and start- skull in an aerial collision with Gary Cahill, ing from scratch. “It’s dangerous when you with Hull revealing on Tuesday that he was go in there defending a lead to tell yourself making “excellent progress”. this result will do or that result will do, or Hull’s players will wear ‘MASON 25’ T- we can afford to do this or that. “We need shirts during the warm-up-a reference both to approach it like any other game, keep to Mason’s age and squad number-and fans our focus and intensity and try to win the have been encouraged to join in with a game.” After a run of nine successive wins minute’s applause in the 25th minute. Hull in all competitions, United’s advance have bolstered their ranks with a loan towards the Champions League places has move for Serbian winger Lazar Markovic, been held up by 1-1 draws against who had been on loan at Sporting Lisbon Liverpool and Stoke City. from Liverpool. Markovic, 22, joined NAPLES: Napoli’s Jose Callejon, center, scores on a header during an Italian Cup, Round of 8 soccer match between Napoli and Fiorentina, at the It means they remain sixth in the league Liverpool from Benfica for £20 million ($25 San Paolo stadium in Naples, Italy, Tuesday. — AP table, four points off the top four, but million, 23.3 million euros) in 2014 and hav- Carrick feels a Wembley final appearance ing failed to make an impression in his will show Jose Mourinho’s men are on the Anfield career to date, he is eager to prove right track. his worth. “I hope that my actions will Callejon strikes as Napoli “Going to Wembley, winning a trophy, speak louder than words and I can prove how can you not like that?” said Carrick, myself to the club and to everyone in whose side last reached a League Cup final English football,” Markovic told the Hull set up Juve or Milan Cup semi in 2010, when they beat Aston Villa 2-1 to website. “I joined Liverpool when I was very claim the trophy for a fourth time. young and have not yet had a long run in “Especially when we feel we are as close as the side to show people what I am capable MILAN: A fine second-half header from Jose Fiorentina’s sole chances came on the count- tions this season. Fiorentina pressed in the later we are to getting there, without taking any- of. “I hope to use this loan spell with Hull Callejon fired Napoli into the semi-finals of the er, but the threat was real, Pepe Reina palming stages, Reina forced down quick to collect Josip thing for granted. City to prove myself in the best league in Italian Cup and a last four date with either Federico Chiesa’s shot over from a tight angle Ilicic’s deflected drive. Hysaj saw red moments “That’s what you play for and that’s what the world, because I feel there is lots more Juventus or AC Milan after a bad-tempered 1-0 before producing a fine one-handed save to par- later, on 90 minutes, for a second bookable the fans want to watch. They want to go to come from me.” — AFP win over Fiorentina on Tuesday. ry a Davide Astori header. Fiorentina resumed in offence but La Viola’s chances of a late leveller Both sides finished with 10 men at the determined fashion, Chiesa dribbling his way were hit when Olivera was sent off after earning Artemio Franchi stadium after a fiery finale that into the area only to be stopped in his tracks by a second caution. — AFP saw Napoli defender Elseid Hysaj then an onrushing Reina. At the other end, Insigne’s Fiorentina’s Maximiliano Olivera sent off within angled drive on the left flank that was blocked Cavani, Di Maria fire minutes of each other. But Napoli were fully yards from goal. But Napoli regained command, deserving of the win in a season which has seen Pavoletti beating a flailing Tatarusanu but seeing Matches on TV PSG in League Cup final Maurizio Sarri’s men keep Juventus on their toes his free kick from outside the area hit post and as they bid for a record sixth consecutive Serie A crossbar, prompting Sarri to immediately replace (Local Timings) title. Stand-in striker Dries Mertens started on the big front man with the more diminutive, but PARIS: Edinson Cavani and Angel Di Maria Kevin Trapp after Thomas Meunier mis- the bench as Sarri gave Leonardo Pavoletti his more successful Mertens. ENGLISH LEAGUE CUP propelled holders Paris Saint-Germain into judged a cross, but the away side struck first start in a Napoli shirt, and the absent Mertens has taken his league tally to an a fourth straight French League Cup final first when Di Maria drilled a 30-yard free- Belgian’s clinical finishing was perhaps missed in impressive 12 league goals after stepping in to Hull City v Man United 22:45 with both scoring twice in a 4-1 victory at kick past Jerome Prior. Blaise Matuidi a wasteful first half for the hosts. Pavoletti replace injured Poland centre-forward Arkaduisz beIN SPORTS Bordeaux on Tuesday. Argentine Di Maria’s should have doubled the lead but could blazed over the Fiorentina bar and Ciprian Milik during his lengthy injury absence. stunning free-kick gave record six-time only shoot tamely at Prior when clean Tararusanu was even more alert to the danger But his thunder was stolen in fine style when champions PSG the lead, but Diego Rolan through, and Bordeaux hit back as Rolan when he tipped Lorenzi Insigne’s free kick at the Callejon ran in to meet Marek Hamsik’s swift SPAIN COPA DEL REY cancelled out the winger’s effort just past stabbed into an empty after an effort from near post on to the crossbar. delivery from deep on the left with a bullet the half hour. Malcom deflected off Thiago Silva and into Insigne, then Callejon spurned further header that left Tatarusanu no chance from six Barcelona v Real Sociedad 23:15 Cavani put the visitors back on top with his path. But Cavani, who reached 20 chances before the end of a first half which, after yards. Along with teammate Manolo beIN SPORTS 3 HD a thumping finish on 60 minutes before league goals in France for the first time at battling to a thrilling 3-3 draw in their last league Gabbiadini, Callejon is now the only other adding a second, while Di Maria again the weekend, applied a clinical finish to outing, surprisingly finished scoreless. Napoli player to score goals in three competi- struck from distance as PSG set up an April restore PSG’s lead on the hour as he ran 1 showdown with the winner of onto a through ball from Lucas. Wednesday’s semi-final between Monaco The Uruguayan demonstrated his and Nancy. Paris have dominated this com- predatory instincts to grab his second on petition in recent years, winning each of 74 minutes after Marquinhos headed back Messi has evolved into the past three editions, and Unai Emery across goal from a corner. ignored any temptations to rest players Di Maria, making his first start of 2017, ahead of Sunday’s pivotal clash with Ligue completed his brace nine minutes from 1 leaders Monaco by fielding a full-strength time with an angled drive that brushed the ‘total footballer’: Enrique side. PSG survived an early scare when fingertips of Prior before nestling inside the Malcom steered straight at PSG goalkeeper far corner. — AFP BARCELONA: Barcelona coach Luis Enrique and vary his position,” added Luis Enrique. “It would be an error to think we’ve already paid tribute to Lionel Messi yesterday for his “When you add all that with the technical and got the job done. Against an opponent of this evolution into a “total footballer” throughout his physical qualities he has then you get the player magnitude, it’s a very dangerous game,” added career, which he believes will help the five-time we see every day, which is a unique player.” Luis Enrique, whose side are looking to book World Player of the Year maintain his quality Barca host Sociedad on Thursday with a 1-0 their place in the Cup semi-finals for a seventh long into the future. advantage from the first leg after beating the consecutive year. “The players are aware of that The Spanish champions are confident their Basques away from home last week for the first and so are our fans. We’ve always struggled to all-time top scorer Messi will sign a new contract time since 2007, although they will be without beat Real Sociedad, especially away, and they until 2022 in the near future, which would tie midfielders Sergio Busquets and Andres Iniesta will make things complicated for us. After the him to the club until he is 35, with sporting through injury. first leg they have nothing to lose.” —Reuters director Robert Fernandez saying on Tuesday that negotiations on the new deal were “going very well”. “Messi’s footballing evolution is beyond any doubt, and the process happened because of his maturity. Before he was almost our only goalscorer but he’s evolved into a total footballer,” Luis Enrique told a news conference on Wednesday ahead of Barca’s King’s Cup quar- ter-final second leg with Real Sociedad. “He’s capable of doing anything in attack or defence, as he’s a very intelligent player he will compensate for any possible weaknesses he may end up experiencing in a very far away future when his physical condition declines.” Messi has scored more than 30 league goals in five of the 12 full seasons he has played for Barca, hitting a La Liga record of 50 in the 2011/12 season, and despite taking up a deeper role in the last two years to accommodate strike partners Neymar and Luis Suarez, he has netted 15 times this season in the league. GABON: Burkina Faso’s midfielder Prejuce Nakoulma (C) takes part in a training ses- “With the type of player he is he doesn’t need SANT JOAN DESPI: From (left to right) FC Barcelona’s Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi and Neymar sion in Libreville on Tuesday during the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations football tourna- much strength because he’s able to play with exercise during a training session at the Sports Center FC Barcelona Joan Gamper in Sant Joan ment in Gabon. Burkina Faso will face Tunisia in the quarter finals of the 2017 Africa one or two touches, he knows where to run to Despi, Spain, yesterday FC Barcelona will play against Real Sociedad in a Spanish Copa del Cup of Nations football tournament. — AFP receive the ball and how to play without the ball Rey, quarter final, second leg today. — AP Japan ends painful Enrique coy wait for local on future as born16 ‘yokozuna’ contract18 runs down THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

Messi has evolved into ‘total footballer’: Enrique Page 19

MELBOURNE: Spain’s Rafael Nadal hits a return against Canada’s Milos Raonic during their men’s singles quarter-final match on day ten of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne yesterday. — AFP Nadal closes in on Federer final

MELBOURNE: Rafael Nadal edged closer to a much- an injury, after a lot of people talked that probably he Open semi-final and his 24th in Grand Slams. to an adductor injury. anticipated Australian Open final with his great rival would never be back. “The real thing is that he’s back Nadal is bidding to win his second Australian Open Upon his return, games went with serve until Nadal Roger Federer after marching into the semi-finals yes- and he’s probably ready to win again, fighting again to title and become the first man in the Open era-and only came under attack in the 10th game, saving three set terday. The 14-time Grand Slam champion was too pow- win a major. “That’s good for the fans because Roger is a the third man in history-to win each of the four Grand points with pressure serving. Raonic had three more set erful for injury-hit world number three Milos Raonic, legend of our sport. I am happy to be there, too. I am Slam titles twice. With his victory Nadal is projected to points in the tiebreaker and blew them all before Nadal winning 6-4, 7-6 (9/7), 6-4 in two hours 44 minutes. focused on my semi-final.” rise to six in next week’s ATP rankings unless Dimitrov took a two sets lead on his first set point as the match The Spanish superstar will play Bulgaria’s 15th seed It was another accomplished performance from the goes on to win the Australian title, in which case he swung decisively the Spaniard’s way. Grigor Dimitrov in Friday’s semi-final. He leads Dimitrov 30-year-old Spaniard who reached his first Grand Slam would be number seven. Winning the title in Melbourne Raonic was wayward with his volleying and made 7-1. Nadal preferred to focus on his next match with semi-final since he won the 2014 French Open, and would lift Nadal to fourth on the world rankings. errors on crucial points to take the heat off Nadal. He Dimitrov rather than contemplating a ninth Grand Slam struggled with injury last year. Nadal began the night quarter-final better and looked physically in trouble and he was wincing in final showdown with Federer, but he paid tribute to the “Great. It’s good news. Especially winning against dif- earned a break point in the fifth game before breaking between points. The end came quickly when Raonic Swiss legend for his amazing run at this year’s Australian ficult players: (Gael) Monfils in quarter-finals, when the Canadian over-hit a smash at double break fell three match points down in the 10th game and Open. “Let me enjoy today, the victory, being in semi- (Alexander) Zverev round of 16 and now Raonic,” Nadal point in his next service game. Nadal won the rally to win which he greeted with his final. For me is great news again. It’s a good start of the said. “All of them are top players. So that’s very impor- He safely negotiated the rest of his service games arms raised in the air. “Obviously he put it together season,” he told reporters. tant for me because that means that I am competitive and took the opening set with an overhead smash. more consistently, much more consistently, than I did “Now I have a very tough match against Dimitrov. and playing well. “I’m so just excited about being back Nadal fought off a break point in a five-deuce service today,” Raonic said. “He’s doing a lot of things well. “Whatever happens on the other side of the draw, I in final rounds of the most important events.” game early in the second set as Raonic began to serve He’s fighting well, which has always been his strongest think it is great for tennis that Roger is there again after It was the 30-year-old Spaniard’s fifth Australian better. The Canadian left the court at 3-2 for treatment attribute.” — AFP Sister act as Serena, Bolt loses gold as IOC Venus eye family final strip Jamaica of relay win MELBOURNE: America’s Williams sisters final as the tournament got underway, but can write another chapter in their eventful it is now a 50-50 chance. LAUSANNE: Usain Bolt lost one of his nine “Things happen in life, so when it’s con- family history as they attempt to set up They last met in a major decider at Olympic gold medals yesterday when the firmed or whatever, if I need to give back my their ninth Grand Slam final, eight years Wimbledon in 2009, which Serena won. International Olympic Committee stripped gold medal I’d have to give it back, it’s not a after the last, at the Australian Open today. The younger Williams has the clear edge, Jamaica of their 4x100m relay win at the problem for me.” In a plot straight from the 2000s, both winning six of their eight Grand Slam final 2008 Beijing Games after a teammate was The IOC said in a statement that in the sisters have raced into the Melbourne semi- encounters stretching back to the US Open caught doping. case of Carter, 31, re-analysis of his 2008 finals without a dropping a set, and they in 2001. Venus said she was not interested The decision which follows the re-testing samples “resulted in a positive test for the appear equally focused on getting their in the past, only the future and the immedi- of hundreds of samples from the Beijing prohibited substance methylhexaneamine.” hands on the title. ate threat posed by the aggressive Games, means that Bolt loses one of the The IOC Disciplinary Commission ruled At least one American is guaranteed to Vandeweghe. “Anything that’s happened three gold medals he won at that Olympics. that Carter “is found to have committed an be in Saturday’s decider, with Venus con- before is just so. I’m ready for the future, if I Bolt’s relay teammate Nestor Carter, who anti-doping rule violation pursuant to the IOC fronting confident compatriot Coco can be honest,” she said. ran the first leg of the race, was found to Anti-Doping Rules applicable to the Games of Vandeweghe in their last-four clash on Rod “I have a lot to give. I have a lot to give have tested positive for banned substance the XXIX Olympiad in Beijing in 2008.” Laver Arena. to the game. I feel like I have a lot of great Methylhexanamine, which was once used in Following them on court will be Serena tennis in me. I have nothing to lose, literal- nasal decongestants but now is more com- CRUSADE AGAINST DRUGS against fellow former teenage prodigy ly.” Vandeweghe is a major threat to an all- monly found as an ingredient in dietary sup- As such, he “is disqualified from the men’s Mirjana Lucic-Baroni, who is into her first Williams final. She demolished French plements. 4x100m relay event” and must return his Grand Slam semi-final in 18 years. Open champion Garbine Muguruza in a blitz of big hitting to make her first The loss of the relay gold deprives Bolt of medal while the team is likewise disqualified It has become a tournament of the gold- en oldies, with Venus 36, Serena 35 and Australian semi, and she is supremely confi- one of his ‘triple triples’-he won gold in the and must hand back their medals. Usain Bolt Lucic-Baroni 34. Vandeweghe at 25 is the dent to boot. 100m, 200 and the 4x100m at Beijing and Trinidad and Tobago, who came second, The IOC has been retesting samples from young pretender. Serena said it was a tes- “It’s amazing to be in a semi-final. But, then went on to repeat the feat in London in are promoted to gold medal winners, while previous Games as part of its crusade tament to the Williams’ staying power that you know, not satisfying,” said 2012 and again in Rio last year. Japan and Brazil move up to second and against drug taking in sport as new technol- they were still fighting for titles at their age. Vandeweghe, who also stunned world Last year, when he was warned of the third place respectively. ogy facilitates bringing to book cases which “I’ve been doing this for many years. The number one Angelique Kerber in round doping case targeting Carter which could The IOC said that Russia’s Tatiana were previously undetectable. past few years I’ve been super-consistent,” four. “I want to keep going, keep playing. result in him losing an Olympic gold, Bolt Lebedeva, who won silver in the women’s In the case of relay events, if one member she said. “But yeah, I’m just really happy for There’s more things to do out on a tennis said the circumstances were heartbreaking. triple jump event and long jump, had also of the team is found to have used illegal sub- Venus, obviously. She’s doing amazing. court that I’m hoping to achieve.” “It’s heartbreaking because over the years been disqualified following re-analysis of her stances, the whole team is stripped of their “I’m really happy for Mirjana, as well. I Brave Lucic-Baroni will have crowd sup- you’ve worked hard to accumulate gold samples which showed up positive for dehy- medals, thus reducing Bolt’s achievements was there when she first started. To see her port in her showdown with Serena after medals and work hard to be a champion-but drochlormethyltestosterone (turinabol), a to a ‘mere’ Beijing double to go with his be able to never give up actually is super- upsetting fifth seed Karolina Pliskova to it’s just one of those things,” he said. substance on the world body’s banned list. triples in London and Rio. —AFP inspiring to me. It’s a wonderful story.” make her first Slam last four since Few would have picked a Serena-Venus Wimbledon in 1999. — AFP Region's first stem cell bank built by KIPCO Page 22

French carmaker PSA Business eyes India comeback THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 Page 23 KIB records net profit Stocks climb as Trump fears ease higher by 14% in 2016 Page 24 Page 23

NEW DELHI: The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan (L) shakes hands with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of a meeting. India to fill strategic reserve with UAE oil 'This will enable us to meet the nation's growing demand for energy'

NEW DELHI: India signed a deal with the United Arab UAE Minister of State and ADNOC Group CEO said in a state- Emirates yesterday that allows the Gulf OPEC country to fill ment. "We will utilize the Mangalore facility to not only build half of an underground crude oil storage facility at Mangalore on our existing business relationships across India but also to that is part of New Delhi's strategic reserve system. New Delhi explore new downstream opportunities for ADNOC's expand- announced a series of pacts with the UAE ranging from ing range of refined and petrochemical products." defense, trade, maritime cooperation to energy after a meet- During Modi's visit to the UAE in 2015, the two countries ing between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Abu Dhabi's announced a $75 billion joint infrastructure fund that would Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan. invest in India's infrastructure development. UAE is India's fifth UAE's Abu Dhabi National Oil Co will store about 6 mil- biggest oil supplier. The crude supplies will begin in the last lion barrels of oil at Mangalore, taking up about half of the quarter of this year, Sudhir told Reuters. "We are talking to site's capacity, said Sunjay Sudhir, joint secretary for interna- them (ADNOC) for two-three grades and most likely it will tional cooperation at the Indian oil ministry. India, hedging Murban." The two sides had discussed ways to advance their against energy security risks as it imports most of its oil energy ties through specific projects, including long-term needs, is building emergency storage in underground cav- supply contracts and joint ventures in energy, Modi said in a erns to hold 36.87 million barrels of crude, or about 10 days speech after his meeting with the crown prince. of its average daily oil demand in 2016. "This will ... help to India in 2014 began talks to lease part of its strategic stor- ensure India's energy security and enable us to meet the age to ADNOC. Under those discussions, India was to have nation's growing demand for energy," said Indian oil minis- first rights to the stored crude in case of an emergency, while ter Dharmendra Pradhan. ADNOC would be able to move cargoes to meet any shift in As one of the fastest growing economies in the world, demand. India has already filled the other half of the India needs massive investments in some key sectors, particu- Mangalore storage in Karnataka state with 6 million barrels of larly infrastructure. ADNOC said the Mangalore oil storage Iranian oil. facility is the third that it has access to in Asia after Japan and India, the world's third-biggest oil consumer, has also filled South Korea, enabling the company to become more compet- a Vizag storage site in southern Andhra Pradesh with 7.55 mil- itive in meeting market demand across South East Asia. lion barrels of Iraqi oil and has invited bids from suppliers to "India is an important energy market and this storage fill an 18.3 million-barrel facility at Padur in Karnataka. The agreement reinforces ADNOC's role as one of the world's most crown prince of Abu Dhabi will be the guest of honor at trusted and reliable suppliers of oil," Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, India's Republic Day parade today. — Reuters NEW DELHI: The Crown Prince pays a tribute at Rajghat, the memorial for Mahatma Gandhi. — AFP photos

Saudi and Kuwait continue EU asks China to open markets uptrends, UAE pulls back following free trade support

MIDEAST STOCK MARKETS BEIJING: The European Union ambassador to his speech at the World Economic Forum in United States following Trump's withdrawal China welcomed its endorsement of free trade Switzerland, but Schweisgut expressed confi- from the Trans-Pacific Partnership, Schweisgut DUBAI: Stock markets in Saudi Arabia and percent. The fireworks in Saudi Arabia and in the face of US President Donald Trump's dence the comments will lead to "concrete said, "I cannot give you an answer at this stage. Kuwait continued uptrends yesterday, Kuwait left Dubai and Abu Dhabi neglect- progress" in market opening. He said that is It is too early." attracting regional investors' money away ed. Dubai's index slipped 1.1 percent to promise to restrict imports and appealed to from the United Arab Emirates, which 3,679 points, failing a test of technical resist- Beijing yesterday to make good on that senti- necessary because China has "no level playing The ambassador gave a similar reply when pulled back. The Saudi index rose 0.5 per- ance on its January peak of 3,737 points. ment by lowering its own market barriers. Hans field" for foreign companies while Europe is asked whether European exporters of aircraft, cent, climbing for a fifth straight day. It has Abu Dhabi sank 1.6 percent. Dietmar Schweisgut also said it was too early to "the most open market in the world." autos and other goods might benefit if Trump been buoyed by hopes for better condi- Real estate firm Deyaar dropped 5.0 per- know how Trump's rejection of an Asian trade raises tariffs on Chinese goods and Beijing retal- tions in the non-oil sector this year as gov- cent after its fourth-quarter profit more pact this week might affect a similar proposed Sharp restrictions iates by cutting purchases of Boeing jets and ernment austerity measures slow. Builder than halved. Builder Drake & Scull was US-European agreement. US, European and other foreign companies other US imports. Schweisgut said Europe Khodari, which has been strong in the past another big loser, falling 4.9 percent in Schweisgut's comments reflected the poten- complain they are barred from or sharply expects to develop closer relations this year week on expectations for a partial recovery volatile trade. The most heavily traded tially global repercussions of Trump's promises restricted in telecoms, information technology, with Beijing on trade and climate, but acknowl- of the Saudi construction market, gained Dubai stock, speculative favorite GFH of sweeping change in US trade, climate and finance and other promising industries in viola- edged they have disagreements, especially on 2.6 percent. Financial, plunged 9.7 percent to 2.43 foreign policy. That has prompted questions tion of Beijing's free-trading pledges. European human rights. Mouwasat Medical Services, which dirhams after opening sharply higher. The about whether Beijing, which relies on the companies are frustrated that they are blocked Asked about last year's detention of jumped 3.5 percent on Tuesday after its company's Bahrain-listed shares soared 9.5 United States for technology and export mar- from acquiring Chinese assets at a time when lawyers who handle human rights and other board recommended a higher cash divi- percent to $0.695, however, moving to a kets, might move closer to Europe as a political China's companies have bought major global sensitive cases, the ambassador said European dend for 2016, added a further 3.7 percent slight premium to the Dubai-listed shares and commercial partner. brands including German robot maker Kuka. envoys planned to raise those and other cases to 147.50 riyals. HSBC raised its target for from a sizeable discount. In an implicit criticism of Trump, President Xi US companies express similar frustration. In with Chinese authorities. "We have an obliga- the stock to 152 riyals from 144, with a Dubai Islamic Bank added 0.5 percent Jinping said in a speech last week a "trade war" a report last week, the American Chamber of tion to speak up and we will do so," he said. "buy" rating. The petrochemical sector was after posting a 58.4 percent increase in would harm all sides and called on other gov- Commerce in China said 81 percent of compa- Regarding Beijing's move this week to restrict firm with industry leader Saudi Basic fourth-quarter net profit to 1.37 billion ernments to reject protectionism. That was nies that responded to a survey feel "less wel- use of virtual private networks that allow Industries climbing 1.6 percent. dirhams ($373 million), well above ana- despite complaints by trading partners that come in China" than they did in the past. It said users to bypass filters blocking access to Kuwait's index, which has surged nearly lysts' average forecast of 850.4 million China is the most closed major economy. "We most believe China's business environment many foreign websites, Schweisgut said 19 percent this month as idle local and dirhams. In Qatar, the index fell 0.2 percent appreciate this commitment by China not only "discourages investment." The American cham- Europe was "very concerned" about any regional funds have poured into the market as Qatar Insurance lost 1.8 percent after to open up its own market but also to very ber said US companies want Trump to take a restrictions that weren't based on "very plau- to catch its momentum, rose 1.1 percent in reporting a 9 percent fall in fourth-quarter much support and champion an open interna- tougher stance with Beijing on market access sible and concrete security concerns." "We are heavy trade. Activity focused on real estate net profit. Egypt's market was closed for a tional trading system" said Schweisgut at a but to proceed carefully. Asked what impact obviously against restrictions on the internet companies; Abyaar Real Estate jumped 6.9 national holiday. — Reuters news conference. Europe expected on its proposed Transatlantic because we think a free and open internet Xi's gave no details of possible changes in Trade and Investment Partnership with the serves all countries," he said. — AP THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 BUSINESS What’s next for Dakota Access and Keystone XL pipelines? BISMARCK: President Donald Trump’s Trump’s nominee for Army secretary executive actions on the Dakota Access hasn’t yet been confirmed. But U.S. Rep. and Keystone XL pipelines are aimed at Kevin Cramer, a North Dakota Republican turning the much-protested pipelines into who has advised Trump on energy issues, reality. Here’s a look at what may be next said he doesn’t think that needs to happen for the two pipelines: for the Army to consider Trump’s message. On Keystone XL, Trump invited WHAT THEY ARE AND WHERE THEY TransCanada to reapply to the State STOOD BEFORE TUESDAY Department for a presidential permit to The $3.8 billion Dakota Access pipeline build and operate the pipeline. State to carry North Dakota oil through South Department approval is needed because Dakota and Iowa to a shipping point in the pipeline would cross the northern US Illinois is nearly complete, except for a border. Trump directed the State stretch underneath Lake Oahe, a Missouri Department and other agencies to make a River reservoir in southern North Dakota. decision within 60 days of a final applica- Construction is stalled due to a court fight tion and declared that a 2014 State between developer Energy Transfer Department environmental study satisfies Partners and the Army Corps of Engineers required reviews under environmental and over permission for the pipeline to cross endangered species laws. Environmental under the lake amid objections from the groups promised a legal challenge, arguing Standing Rock Sioux tribe, which gets its a new application requires a new review. drinking water from the lake. The $8 billion Keystone XL project was WILL PROTESTERS RETURN? to bring oil from Canada’s oil sands to Opposition to Dakota Access resulted in Nebraska, where it would join other lines hundreds and sometimes thousands of Region’s first stem cell bank built by already leading to refineries along the Gulf people camping on federal land along the Coast. Former President Barack Obama pipeline route in North Dakota. The area KIPCO to be completed this year halted it in late 2015, declaring it would since August has been the site of numer- undercut U.S. efforts to clinch a global cli- ous, sometimes violent clashes between KUWAIT: The Kuwait Projects Company and medical libraries, as well as a lecture theater. that are being made in the field of stem cell mate change deal that was a centerpiece of protesters and police, with nearly 625 (Holding) - and its Group companies will hand research.” Mr Abdulaziz Al Jassar, Board Member his environmental agenda. arrests. The camp has dwindled to fewer over the Sheikha Salwa Sabah Al Ahmad Stem State-of-the-art equipment and Treasurer of Masharee Al Khair said: “This than 300 people after the Tribal Council Cell and Umbilical Cord Center in mid- In addition to KD 7 million donation, the donation, made by KIPCO Group through WHAT THE ORDERS MEAN recently told protesters to leave due to September 2017, with 70 percent of the con- Advanced Technology Company, a member of Masharee Al Khair, reflects our keen interest to Trump’s move on Dakota Access didn’t harsh winter weather and the need to get struction of the building now complete. The cen- the KIPCO Group, has pledged to provide state- enhance the quality of lives in the societies in immediately clear the way for construction the area cleaned up before spring flooding. ter, financed through a KD 7 million donation of-the-art equipment for the center’s specialized which we operate. We place great hopes on this to resume, but it did order the Corps to Trump’s action could re-ignite protests, made to the Ministry of Health by Masharee Al laboratories, cooling systems and stem cell stor- center, which we believe will play an important quickly consider whether to approve the but “to what degree, we don’t know,” said Khair Charity Organization on behalf of KIPCO age facilities. ATC’s contribution is valued at KD role in the field of medical research.” KIPCO Lake Oahe crossing. Tribal attorney Jan Dallas Goldtooth of the Indigenous Group, is the Gulf region’s first-ever center to be one million. Mr Faisal Al Ayyar, KIPCO’s Vice Group companies donate one per cent of their Hasselman said what happens next will Environmental Network, which had been dedicated to stem cell research and the storage Chairman (Executive) said: annual profits to Masharee Al Khair Charity depend on how the Corps interprets the one of the main camp organizers before of umbilical cords. “At KIPCO, we strongly believe that the pri- Organization. The money is used to support language. He said the tribe will fight in heeding the tribe’s call to leave last month. The Sheikha Salwa Sabah Al Ahmad Stem Cell vate sector must play a pivotal role in support- charity projects and social causes. court any reversal of the Corps’ recent deci- That group and other organizers have and Umbilical Cord Center is being built over a ing the government’s development plans, and Stem cells are unspecialized cells that have sion to conduct a full environmental study since called on Dakota Access opponents 12,000 m. sq. plot of land in the Al Sabah Health that an integral part of this is the advancement the potential to develop into different cell types of the crossing - a process that could take to spread out around the country rather Zone, opposite the Maternity Hospital. It has a of medicine and scientific research. The Sheikha with specialized function, such muscle cells, red up to two years. Not completing a study than concentrate in southern North total built up area of 7,800 m. sq. and includes a Salwa Sabah Al Ahmad Stem Cell and Umbilical blood cells or brain cells. As such, stem cells can “would be a gross violation of the tribe’s Dakota. Aaron Dorn, 32, from Utica, New three-floor main building, a utilities building, in Cord Center, once handed over to the Ministry of be used to replace damaged cells that do not treaty rights,” he said. The Corps’ York, said he has no plans to leave the addition to external landscaping and parking. Health, will make available resources that will normally regenerate themselves. Stem cells Northwestern Division didn’t immediately camp. “I’m glad Trump got elected - it The facility includes testing and research labora- have a direct impact on the quality of people’s come from three sources: adults, embryos and comment, saying it was still studying wakes people up to government-con- tories, blood and cord storage banks, research lives thanks to the many medical breakthroughs umbilical cords. Trump’s action. trolled capitalism,” he said. — AP Careem expansion continues with 50 destinations across MENASA KUWAIT: Considered a popular choice of landmark funding round of USD 500 mil- daily commute among the business com- lion in the company with USD 350 million munity in Kuwait, Careem, the region’s already secured from new and existing leading ride-hailing service, has now investors. Co-led is by Rakuten, Inc, a glob- expanded to more than 50 cities across al leader in internet services and innova- the broader MENASA (Middle East, North tion headquartered in Japan, and Saudi Africa and South Asia) region, including Telecom Company (“STC”), the largest Turkey and three new cities in Pakistan. telecom operator in the Middle East, the Careem currently operates in capital fundraise, supported by Credit Suisse, is Islamabad and in Pakistan’s two most one of the largest for a technology com- populous cities - Karachi and Lahore and pany in the Middle East’s history. The will now include Peshawar, Faisalabad investment will scale up Careem’s trans- and Hyderabad where Careem will port services in existing and new markets, launch the Economy car type in accelerate innovation across its platform Hyderabad and Peshawar, and Business of high-frequency transactions, and help in Faisalabad. Careem achieve its goal of creating one Mudassir Sheikha, co-founder and million jobs in the region by 2018. CEO of Careem, said, “Our main focus is to broaden and deepen our presence across the wider region, which comes on the back of Careem’s phenomenal growth in the past four years. Testament Joyalukkas back in Vizag with to our continued expansion and ambi- tions for further growth is the recent USD 350 million tranche of investment in our a better jewelry experience company, making Careem one of the few tech unicorns in the Middle East and KUWAIT: This early in the year, the bigger jewelry shopping expe- the warm reception we received pearl. The collection is a mix of tra- North Africa. Now operational in more 2017 is already looking like a ban- rience from the world’s favorite from all the people here,” said Joy ditional, ethno contemporary and than 50 cities within four years since ner year for Joyalukkas, with new jeweler. Alukkas, Chairman and Managing international designs that have launching, Careem will harness this mile- accolades received and the open- The opening of the new Director of Joyalukkas Group. “Every won of hearts and following of cus- stone achievement as a springboard to ing of three new showrooms in Joyalukkas showroom in Vizag is new showroom opening brings us tomers around the world. further growth in 2017.” quick succession. The world’s only the third of several new show- closer to our goal of being where Joyalukkas is one of few to be rec- In Kuwait, Careem has been opera- favorite jeweler, Joyalukkas has room openings planned in 2017 as our supporters are. All this would ognized for exceptional standards tional since 2015 and is now considered a opened their new showroom in part of the Group’s aggressive not have been possible without the in jewelry retailing, including being popular choice among the executive Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. expansion drive, following the trust and loyalty given to us by over awarded ‘Superbrand’ status 7 years population. Locally, the brand is The showroom has been inaugurat- launch of three USA locations, in 10 million customers around the in a row since 2010. It is currently a equipped with offering the latest models ed by Vizag District Collector Houston, Texas; Edison, New Jersey, world. Our plans to open more 120 plus showroom network of the Toyota Camry and Toyota Corolla Praveen Kumar IAS in the Presence and West Devon Avenue, Chicago. showrooms and expand to new spread across the USA, UK, the GCC for Economy based passengers and 2016 of Joy Alukkas (CMD, Joyalukkas It is also the second new showroom markets are going as schedule, as and India, and will soon open in Chevrolet models of the Impala, Tahoe Group), John Paul Alukkas to be opened in India, the first well as our never-ending efforts to two new countries. One of the and Malibu for its Business commuters. (Executive Director, Joyalukkas being Chromepet, Tamil Nadu earli- find the best offerings and give world’s largest jewelry retail chains, Furthermore, with the Kuwaiti market Group), Baby George (CEO), PD er this month. Entering new mar- service from the heart in our current it is part of the multi-billion dollar recorded as having one of the highest Jose, PD Francis and other digni- kets and strengthening its presence 11 countries of operation.” global conglomerate Joyalukkas user generated ratings in the company, taries. The staggering grand open- in the current locations are among Joyalukkas Vizag features over a Group, which has varied business Careem is now offering 25% off on all ing yesterday, 11:00 am, was met the Group’s priorities for the year. million dazzling collections and interests, including jewelry, money Economy rides from 9 pm until 2 am daily. with much fanfare by citizens of “We can’t be happier to be back exquisite designs in gold, diamond, exchange, fashion & silks, luxury air Last month, Careem announced a Careem founder Mudassir Sheikha Vizag, who had eagerly awaited for in Vizag, and are very grateful for precious stones, platinum and charter, malls and realty. EXCHANGE RATES

Chinese Yuan Renminbi 44.870 Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. Swiss Franc 307.230 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000018 0.000024 Australian Dollar 232.870 Thai Bhat 9.625 Japanese Yen 0.002594 0.002774 US Dollar Buying 304.800 Turkish Lira 81.470 ASIAN COUNTRIES Kenyan Shilling 0.003003 0.003003 Japanese Yen 2.670 GOLD Korean Won 0.000250 0.000265 Indian Rupees 4.494 20 Gram 247.740 BAHRAIN EXCHANGE COMPANY WLL Malaysian Ringgit 0.065229 0.071229 Pakistani Rupees 2.919 10 Gram 126.790 Nepalese Rupee 0.003146 0.003316 Srilankan Rupees 2.043 5 Gram 64.240 CURRENCY BUY SELL Pakistan Rupee 0.002762 0.003052 Nepali Rupees 2.810 Europe Singapore Dollar 215.490 Philippine Peso 0.006059 0.006359 Hongkong Dollar 39.446 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd British Pound 0.372786 0.382785 Sierra Leone 0.000068 0.000074 Bangladesh Taka 3.865 Czech Korune 0.004111 0.016111 Singapore Dollar 0.209238 0.219238 Philippine Peso 6.144 Danish Krone 0.039972 0.044972 South African Rand 0.016289 0.024789 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate Thai Baht 8.687 Euro 0. 322801 0.331801 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001696 0.002276 US Dollar 305.650 Norwegian Krone 0.032405 0.037605 Taiwan 0.009670 0.009850 Canadian Dolla 230.220 GCC COUNTRIES Romanian Leu 0.084806 0.084806 Thai Baht 0.008332 0.008882 Saudi Riyal 81.654 Sterling Pound 379.810 Slovakia 0.009174 0.019174 Qatari Riyal 84.101 Euro 328.770 Swedish Krona 0.030385 0.035385 Arab ani Riyal 795.218 Swiss Frank 306.490 Swiss Franc 0.299606 0.310606 Bahraini Dinar 813.070 Bahraini Dinar 0.805100 0.813600 Bahrain Dinar 810.255 Turkish Lira 0.077162 0.087462 UAE Dirham 83.367 Egyptian Pound 0.013197 0.022450 UAE Dirhams 83.610 Iranian Riyal 0.000085 0.000086 Qatari Riyals 84.830 Australasia ARAB COUNTRIES Iraqi Dinar 0.000182 0.000242 Australian Dollar 0.223417 0.235417 Egyptian Pound - Cash 19.350 Saudi Riyals 82.435 Jordanian Dinar 0.426542 0.435542 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 16.259 New Zealand Dollar 0.213816 0.223316 Jordanian Dinar 432.270 Kuwaiti Dinar 1.000000 1.000000 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.229 Egyptian Pound 16.511 Lebanese Pound 0.000148 0.000248 Tunisian Dinar 134.510 Sri Lankan Rupees 2.040 America Jordanian Dinar 431.200 Moroccan Dirhams 0.020137 0.044137 Indian Rupees 4.489 Canadian Dollar 0.224376 0.233376 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 2.040 Nigerian Naira 0.001268 0.001903 Pakistani Rupees 2.915 Georgina Lari 0.138207 0.138207 Syrian Lira 2.182 US Dollars 0.301900 0.306300 Omani Riyal 0.788384 0.794064 Morocco Dirham 31.003 Bangladesh Taka 3.871 US Dollars Mint 0.302400 0.306300 Qatar Riyal 0.083239 0.084689 Philippines Pesso 6.138 Saudi Riyal 0.080513 0.081813 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Cyprus pound 167.850 Asia Syrian Pound 0.001298 0.001518 US Dollar Transfer 306.000 Japanese Yen 3.665 Euro 329.560 Bangladesh Taka 0.003667 0.004251 Tunisian Dinar 0.129493 0.137493 Syrian Pound 2.425 Sterling Pound 380.360 Chinese Yuan 0.043135 0.046635 Turkish Lira 0.077162 0.087462 Canadian dollar 230.770 Nepalese Rupees 3.800 Hong Kong Dollar 0.037388 0.040118 UAE Dirhams 0.081888 0.083588 Turkish lira 81.760 Malaysian Ringgit 69.600 Indian Rupee 0.002832 0.005512 Yemeni Riyal 0.000995 0.001075 THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 BUSINESS Scandal-hit Korea grows at slowest pace in Q4

SEOUL: South Korea’s GDP grew at its slowest higher than the previous year’s 2.2 percent. Analysts say the scandal has hampered con- Kim Doo-Un, an economist for Hana pace in more than a year in the final quarter of The political turmoil that surfaced in sumer sentiment, with domestic demand Financial Investment, added: “I expect 2.4 per- 2016, its central bank said yesterday, as Asia’s October has brought huge numbers onto expanding just 0.2 percent in the fourth quar- cent expansion for 2017, and an extra budget fourth-largest economy is rattled by a scandal South Korea’s streets for weekly protests to ter of 2016 compared to the 0.6 percent and rate cut could be deployed within the first engulfing impeached President Park Geun-Hye. demand Park’s immediate departure from growth posted in the previous three months. half.” Earlier this month, the central bank The Bank of Korea said in a statement that gross office. The scandal centres on Park’s secret Domestic political uncertainty and weakening revised down its growth projection for 2017 to domestic product expanded 0.4 percent during confidante Choi Soon-Sil, who is accused of consumer sentiment seem to have acted as a 2.5 percent citing “deteriorations in economic the October to December period from the pre- using her ties with the president to extract drag on domestic demand, Woo Jae-Joon, an sentiment” and kept its key interest rate at a vious three months, when it grew 0.6 percent. money from conglomerates such as Samsung economist for Bank of America Merrill Lynch record-low for the seventh consecutive But annual growth in 2016 was 2.7 percent, and meddle in state affairs. told Bloomberg. month. — AFP KIB records net profit higher by 14% in 2016

KUWAIT: Sheikh Mohammed Jarrah Al-Sabah, provision coverage ratio has also increased to Chairman of Kuwait International Bank (KIB) 231% compared to 199% for 2015. Moreover, announced that during 2016, the Bank’s profits total provisions and collaterals coverage ratio have increased by 14% to reach KD 18.2 million increased to 368% compared to 327% for the compared to KD 16.1 million in 2015. This previous year. In this context, Al-Jarrah praised growth is attributable to an increase in revenues KIB’s performance and achievements pertinent accompanied by an effective cost optimization. to these significant indicators. In full conformity The financing income increased by 12% reach- with CBK regulations on Basel III, KIB continued ing KD 71 million compared to KD 63.2 million to maintain an excellent capital adequacy ratio during 2015. Revenue from fees and commission (CAR) of 20.5% while the financial leverage ratio increased by 5, to reach almost KD 9 million, as was over 10.7% for the year 2016. compared to KD 8.3 million in the previous year. Return on Equity (ROE) reached 7.2% in com- BERLIN: A visitor attends the second edition of a job fair for refugees and Al-Jarrah stated that the Bank’s improved per- parison with 6.5% for the previous year due to migrants. — AFP formance reflected positively on earnings per the enhancement of various performance indi- share (EPS) for 2016, which increased by 14% cators mentioned above. This resulted in an Germany clings to hope reaching 19.50 fils compared to 17.14 fils for the increase in the distributions to depositors’ previous year. As for dividends, Al-Jarrah stated, accounts since the beginning of 2016 whereby Sheikh Mohammed Jarrah Al-Sabah KIB’s Board of Directors has recommended to its the annualized return on Arzaq deposit in as Trump clouds gather shareholders’ Annual General Assembly, cash Kuwaiti Dinars increased to 2.15%, 2.25% and and streamlining its systems and processes. dividends of 10% of the share nominal value (10 2.35% in Q1, Q2 and Q3 respectively. Rates in Q4 “Much of our continued success can be credit- FRANKFURT AM MAIN: The German gov- Analysts surveyed by Factset had predicted fils per share) for shareholders registered at the 2016 reached 2.55% resulting in an average of ed to our successful implementation of the for- ernment yesterday maintained its growth a slight increase to 111.3 points. Bank’s records on the AGM date and is subject to 2.325% for the year 2016. Al Boushra Kuwaiti ward-thinking strategy, which have been forecast for 2017, even as a monthly survey “Companies expressed greater satisfac- the approval of the Bank’s AGM and regulatory Dinar three year deposits were offered 3.0625%. extremely successful in enhancing our position showed firms increasingly nervous about tion with their current business situation, authorities. Profits were credited into the depositors’ within the Islamic banking sector, setting us the future in the face of global uncertainty. but are less optimistic about their six- accounts upon declaring the financial results. well on our way to achieve our vision of becom- Europe’s largest economy should expand month business outlook,” Ifo president Growth in the financing portfolio ing the ‘Islamic Bank of Choice in Kuwait’,” by 1.4 percent in 2017 after hitting 1.9 per- Clemens Fuest said in a statement. KIB’s total assets increased by 3% reaching KD Impressive performance added Al-Jarrah. cent last year, the economy ministry in “Germany is getting increasingly concerned 1.85 billion compared to KD 1.79 billion by the Sheikh Mohammed Jarrah Al-Sabah stated KIB’s achievements during the year were rec- Berlin said in a statement. about the possible impact from US presi- ending 2015. This increase is attributable to a that KIB’s impressive performance and robust ognized by various international agencies. These “The German economy is in very good dent Trump’s suggested trade sanctions,” growth in the financing portfolio by KD 95 mil- growth comes as a result of the Bank’s imple- included “Best Islamic Bank - GCC” from World condition,” said Economy Minister Sigmar wrote analyst Carsten Brzeski of ING Diba lion reaching KD 1.27 billion compared to KD mentation of its long term strategic plan. This Finance, “Best Sharia Compliant Bank - MENA” Gabriel, adding that “the effect of a lower bank. The US dislodged France as 1.17 billion last year achieving 8% growth com- strategy aims to bring about a comprehensive from CFI.co and “Best Banking Vision” from CPI number of working days” compared with Germany’s biggest export customer for the pared to the previous year. Investment portfolio transformation across all sectors of the Bank in Financial. KIB was also honored for excellence in 2016 would account for most of the fall in first time in many years in 2015, he noted. increased by KD 19 million, ie by 17% reaching terms of better asset quality, healthy capital labor nationalization ratio in the private sector growth. But he acknowledged that “despite According to the federal statistics office KD 128 million compared to KD 109 million at 31 buffer, improved performance, increase in prof- across the GCC. Fitch ratings upgraded KIB’s via- the extremely good economic situation, Destatis, Germany sold 174 billion euros December 2015. Depositors’ accounts rose to KD itability, new and innovative products and bility rating and re-affirmed Long-term Issuer many people are concerned” about their ($187 billion) of goods to the US in 2015, 1.12 billion compared to KD 1.02 billion by the enhanced service offerings to customers. Default Rating (IDR) at ‘A+’ with a stable outlook own and the country’s prospects. Earlier in while importing around 60 billion euros of end of the previous year, an increase of KD 107 Al-Jarrah also mentioned that Al Dawli con- in 2016. Al-Jarrah concluded by expressing his the day, a survey from the Munich-based Ifo American goods. Combined with the threat million representing a growth of 10%. tinues its efforts to bring a complete evolution gratitude towards the Central Bank of Kuwait for institute showed business confidence at its to German exports from Britain’s decision to KIB’s outstanding performance and collection of its banking services and offerings. In an their guidance, as well as the Board of Directors, lowest level since September. The Ifo index quit the EU, Brzeski said “the German econo- efficiency throughout 2016 has positively effort to provide customers with an enhanced executive management, employees and cus- stood at 109.8 points in January, a fall of 1.2 my will continue to be highly dependent on reflected on its asset quality and coverage ratios. digital banking experience, KIB has made major tomers for their support in achieving this points after months trending upwards. domestic demand” in the year ahead. — AFP NPL ratio has been maintained at 1.4%. Total investments in upgrading its IT infrastructure remarkable performance.

PARIS: CK Birla, chairperson of Indian conglomerate CK Birla Group, attends a press conference at the Groupe PSA headquarters. — AFP French carmaker PSA eyes India comeback

PARIS: French auto giant PSA is heading back to India, a on more rapid growth. CK Birla is a family-owned indus- market it withdrew from 20 years ago, where car owner- trial conglomerate, with annual revenues of some $1.6 ship is still relatively low but is seen as having huge billion and a workforce of around 20,000. — AFP growth potential. PSA yesterday said it had signed an agreement to set up two joint ventures with Indian con- glomerate CK Birla, with production capacity initially estimated at 100,000 vehicles per year by 2020. Toyota to add PSA said it has not yet decided which model it will build in India, but the project represents an initial invest- 400 US jobs ment of 100 million euros ($107 million), of which the French group will put up around two thirds. “If you want TOKYO: Toyota said it will invest $600 million and cre- to be a global player, you can’t be absent” from the ate 400 jobs at one of its US plants - just weeks after world’s second most populous country, PSA chief execu- Donald Trump criticized the Japanese auto giant for tive Carlos Tavares told a news conference. planning to open a factory in Mexico. The US president The two joint ventures will manufacture engines and has pressured automakers, both American and foreign, vehicles in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. PSA will into boosting production and hiring in the United hold 80 percent in the car-building venture and 50 per- States, threatening them with punitive tariffs if they cent in the engine manufacturing operations. CEO move factories and jobs overseas. “This expansion Tavares estimated that the Indian market, which current- project is part of Toyota’s localization strategy to build ly represents around three million vehicles per year, vehicles where they are sold,” the automaker, which could grow to “between eight and 10 million vehicles by was singled out by Trump in a Twitter broadside, said 2025.” “There are growth opportunities there,” he said. in a statement Tuesday. The drive is part of PSA’s “Push to pass” strategy aimed The investment is aimed at boosting SUV produc- at generating “profitable growth” by expanding the tion at a factory in Indiana, the home state of Vice group’s geographic footprint. It already announced new President Mike Pence. Toyota currently has 5,000 production sites in Morocco and Iran in 2015 and 2016. employees in the plant in the small city of Princeton, French rival Renault moved into the Indian market last part of the approximately 40,000 people it directly year, producing low-cost small car Kwid in the Tamil employs in the US, a Toyota spokeswoman told AFP. Nadu capital of Chennai. But PSA would not go down Toyota said its planned investment of $10 billion in the US over the next five years “shows Toyota’s commit- the same road, Tavares said. ment to continued US investment”. “Our sole target is not volumes,” he said. In the 1990s, The project to modernize the plant and increase its PSA had produced its Peugeot 309 model in partnership competitiveness is set to begin in 2019, Toyota said. with Indian group PAL. But sales fell short of target and Earlier this month, while still president-elect, Trump PSA eventually threw in the towel in 1997. It abandoned threatened Toyota with tariffs over a planned new comeback plans in India five years ago at the height of vehicle plant in Mexico. “NO WAY! Build plant in US or an internal crisis within the firm. Car ownership in India pay big border tax,” he tweeted. Toyota has said it will is still very low, with around 22 cars per 1,000 inhabitants build a new factory in Mexico, which is expected to in 2014, 30 times lower than in western Eruope. But begin production in 2019. — AFP insufficient infrastructure is currently putting the brakes THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 BUSINESS Stocks climb as Trump fears ease

LONDON: Asian and European markets pushed new president signed off on the controversial that Senate Democrats will unveil a $1 trillion The British pound had slid Tuesday after Brexit process-invoking Article 50 of the higher yesterday, tracking a record close on Wall Keystone XL pipeline-which would carry oil from infrastructure plan, offering the president their the UK Supreme Court’s verdict that EU treaty-without a vote in parliament, Street as investor concerns eased over Donald Canadian tar sands to US Gulf Coast refineries- support if he backs it. The developments Britain’s government must win parlia- but she failed to overturn a High Court rul- Trump’s lack of domestic policies. After a slack and another crossing in North Dakota. soothed anxiety on markets that promised econ- ment’s approval before launching Brexit ing that said lawmakers must be consult- start to the year for global equities, US traders The move reverses decisions taken recently omy-firing spending and tax-cutting measures negotiations. But sterling recovered lost ed. In Wall Street action on Tuesday, the took up the reins Tuesday to press back on with by Barack Obama and is the latest effort to wipe were being put on the back burner by Trump in ground as markets focused on the greater S&P 500 and Nasdaq ended at all-time the November-December Trump rally after the out the former president’s legacy. The favor of reviewing global trade deals. certainty that the ruling delivered. highs, while the Dow got within spitting tycoon gave the green light to two big oil announcement weighed on oil prices on fears it The court decision “means the uncer- distance of breaking the 20,000-point bar- pipeline deals. will add to a global glut of crude, despite the Pound rallies tainty that has plagued the currency for rier for the first time. “Following on from a late rally in the US last OPEC exporting cartel’s agreement in November In Europe yesterday, Frankfurt and Paris months is gradually dissipating”, said In Asia yesterday Hong Kong rose night, thanks to the second round of Trump to cut output. Also Tuesday it emerged that stocks won more than 1.0 percent, but London Campbell, as Prime Minister Theresa May 0.4 percent and Tokyo jumped 1.4 per- executive orders, the markets looked a lot perki- House Speaker Paul Ryan signalled support for gains were tempered as sterling rebounded to readies legislation to push Brexit through cent as exporters were supported by a er,” said Spreadex analyst Connor Campbell. The public works spending, while reports surfaced multi-week highs against the euro and dollar. parliament. May had wanted to start the weaker yen. — AFP

NEW YORK: Specialist Robert Tuccillo works on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. — AP

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 business Caesars Travel Group: Soaring to new heights Part II of interview with the CEO of Caesars Travel Group

By Jins M Jose and many such key points which you should be aware of, how you are trying to overcome this situation? before starting your journey. Some of the complaints A: In general, it’s a wrong saying that all the travel n an industry where biggest is not always the best, from passengers after returning from their holidays are agents are working against each other but it’s not the fact, Caesars Travel Group incorporated in 1992 started with that their hotels, ground services and other packages we are one family and from the same fraternity though our Ia small profile. Today, it is heading to become a compet- were not at par with their expectations and blaming the dealings are towards the same product. Many of the travel itive, innovative company at par with the key players in the travel agents. agents are also not equipped with these ideologies and aviation industry in Kuwait. We are noticing that they have At Caesars Holidays, we are trying our level best to satis- just spoiling this platform which is an elite and colorful grown as one of the biggest suppliers now unlike other fy our customers by meeting these key elements and we profession than uniting together for better results. travel groups, dealing with many diversified activities have a broad spectrum of holiday platforms such as world’s Ultimately, who is taking the maximum advantage of such under one travel platform. leading cruises, Cox & Kings holidays for the NRI Indians, rivalry happening between us, mainly the corporate clients Business in every industry are dealing with increased economical way of offering the car rental services through who enjoy getting all privileges from the travel agents by competition and travel agencies are no exception, there- “Flexible Autos” and a department specially made to meet availing credits for long durations with neck-to-neck airline fore, it’s always a curiosity to know more about Caesars the demands of customers for their tailor-made packages. costs against air tickets and other ancillary services. Travel Group that within the span of these 25 years, how It’s a common practice among the corporate houses they have managed to grow to the current levels apart Q: Currently, everything is available through inter- that availing credit from a travel agent and when it has from the many turbulences happening in the aviation field net such as air tickets, hotels, tour packages, car rental, become huge amount, switch over to another travel agent at the moment. We had a face to face meeting with the you name it everything and in this case why you prefer by not settling this outstanding amount toward their previ- CEO of Caesars Travel Group, PNJ Kumar, who is working a passenger to approach the travel agent? ous agency and the poor agent is running behind them for with the industry for the last 25 years with a dignified posi- A: I understand that this is the age of doing everything their money for months and years, meanwhile, many of tion till now and who is the back-bone of the steady online, can working with a travel agent really save you them closing down their companies as you asked me, growth of Caesars Travel Group. money? Turns out the answers are yes because travel because of this huge outstanding amount whereas they agents usually give them correct information than the have to settle their airline bills on every week, for that they Q: Passengers complain about getting their seat at machine where there are many hidden rules if the right used to depend on loans from banks, ultimately end up in the end of the aircraft though they have purchased the questions are not asked and upon taking these services such disasters that they could not settle these loan to the companies, having a dedicated inbound Tours depart- tickets well in advance, why is this happening? through internet you may be stuck with it. In offering more bank as these corporate never settle their bills. ment which is the one only company in Kuwait for pro- A: It’s the duty of the travel agency dealing officer that options and amenities, online travel sites have actually It’s a question, why it is happening? If the travel agents moting Kuwait Tourism, Shipping Division, Grand Limo for when an air ticket is issued to a passenger, he should made it more confusing to figure out what they are selling, have a common unity and if any corporate is approaching exclusive taxi services in Kuwait and many such new proj- immediately confirm the seating, meals plan and other not less so. The explosion of restrictions and fees - many of for a credit, before starting the business if these travel ects are on the way to make this set-up as a one stop special handling messages if any to get it confirmed imme- which are not obvious to the casual travel buyer - further agents can insist them to settle their outstanding amounts umbrella of delivering the diversified travel services to the diately and the same to be communicated to the passen- muddies understanding of the bottom line on any itiner- with their previous handling agents, in other words, to passengers. ger when handing over the ticket to them whereas this ary. If you can get a great deal in 30 seconds online, that’s bring a no objection certificate, none of the corporate can ethic is not followed by many of the travel agencies as their preferable to playing phone tag with an agent, but there misuse the travel agents for their own benefits but unfor- Q: How do you rate the Caesars Travel Group’s pub- intensions are only to make sales, not to keep the clients are times when planning a trip with a travel agent will save tunately, it is not happening due to the narrow outlook licities, is it by buying the same through spending happy by giving them excellent services, thereby making you time, money, and frustration. Here’s how to tell when maintained by the agents and at the end, we are suffering. which many of the business organizations do at the these clients as repeated passengers to that agency. you should use an agent and when to go it alone. It’s my opinion that let the travel agents themselves work moment? Many of the passengers realize this only after boarding together with an understanding, not as enemies but as a A: How to get publicity when you have no news to the aircraft and directed to their seats by the crew. Yes, it’s Q: At Caesars, we have noticed that you have many family and it’s very easy to protect from this situation pro- share? Not exaggerating, yes-we have many hot news to not right from the part of a travel agent as most of the cas- travel offices, many airline representations both in pas- vided the agencies should not take any credit contract share with our passengers on a daily basis regarding the es, these sorts of mistakes are happening which can be senger, cargo and holiday offices, don’t you think the from corporate. developments happening inside Caesars Travel Group avoided by appointing qualified staff who has the special- travel agents may feel conflict of interest in dealing which I can say, not possible without the strong and con- ized skills in dealing in this field. Exemptions are there, with you when you have many airline representation Q: What are the future plans of Caesars Travel tinuous support that our clients are giving, it needs no some of the aircrafts are not supporting seating plans and offices but at the same time, you have enough travel Group? pumping of money to get the publicities but automatical- such special handling privileges, which should be commu- offices to promote them without depending on other A: Caesars mission when founding this travel set-up is ly, spreads through word of mouth which we believe the nicated to the passenger at the same time when handing travel agents? to become the true friend of our passengers in supporting true tool for the establishment of a company. In brief, we over the ticket in order to avoid their last minute disap- A: Though we have many travel offices, the airline rep- the travel needs under one roof, whether it is for airline are not a company to buy the goodwill through publicities pointment when locating their seats in the aircraft. resentation (passenger and cargo) and holiday franchisee tickets, leisure, medical, cargo or you name it, everything. whereas striving towards it through the dedicated and offices are always kept as independent entities which has We are on the way to achieve this goal and yes, still to go unique services extended to our clients but at the same Q: The passengers are confused about the right loca- no connection whatsoever with our travel offices, they for a long journey which are happening in Caesars Travel time, I will not forget about the publicities which we have tion for their holidays and come to the travel agent for always used to keep the same level of supports used to Group step by step. Moreover, each and every office of to simultaneously looked upon which is the need of the guidance and information but, very few are competent give to other travel agents. We are only the sponsors for Caesars and the employees working under us should be hour in any industry at this point in time. to handle this, how is your division, Caesars Holidays in these represented brands without any interference in their the true companion of our valued passengers in guiding To conclude, meeting with the CEO of Caesars Travel dealing with such matters? internal activities and according to me, these represented them to benefit the maximum out of traveling by giving Group, PNJ Kumar, we have seen a set-up with lots of A: With so much advertising shoved in our faces these brand offices have proved their independent status among economized options, thereby developing a confidence on future plans in an organized way of chalking out the same days between print, TV and digital media all vying for our the travel trade, by keeping the same level of supports giv- us as their trusted partner for the travel industry. which proudly they can say that it has been implemented attention, deciding which travel destinations to visit can be ing to our travel offices, therefore, I don’t think the concern Caesars Travel Group was previously a local player, con- stage by stage in Kuwait market with 35 offices across the overwhelming. Budget and time will undoubtedly play a that you have expressed about the conflict of interest is centrating in Kuwait only but currently, we have become a country as of now since their inception in 1992. Kumar part in the decision making process but with so many not at all relevant. Once again, let me reiterate my position Global Player, having offices in India, Dubai and very soon, with his vast experience in this industry for more than 25 amazing places in the world, how do you whittle it down? in this regard that without the support from the other trav- starting in other countries too. This is to give a supporting years, proved his business model as one of the unique When you approach a travel agent, he should spend some el agents, these brands represented offices cannot survive hand to our passengers to have more options of buying kinds in travel industry, absolutely elite not comparable time with you patiently, giving several options to you by and definitely, these offices always give the prime impor- their travel documents based on the concept of econo- with others, made a unique identity of his own and further, explaining about the unique features on each location tance to protect the interests of these travel agents being mizing their budget as they have many options to com- we came to understand that still, many diversified expan- where you are planning to visit. they are the feeders for these offices. pare their expenses by checking the cost applicable in var- sion activities are under way with Caesars Travel Group In most cases, the same ignorance from travel agent ious countries where we have our business interests which related to the travel industry which are mainly targeted to may put you in trouble without properly communicating Q: We have seen that lots of travel agencies are clos- I can say, an indirect online tool to them. We have many the passengers for giving an array of services which is the the visa rules, contraband items to carry, currency and ing down due to the failure in recovering the huge leading airline’s passenger/cargo representations, leisure prime necessity of the time where the passengers are look- value, cultures of the place that you are planning to visit receivables from corporate, how it is happening and representations such as cruise companies, holiday/tours ing for a true partner whom they can depend on. Eicher vehicles celebrates 16 amazing years in Kuwait

n emerging player in the Kuwait, VE 68th Republic Day, KAICO is coming soon with efficiency and emissions control with added Commercial Vehicles is celebrating 16 years Eicher’s latest product offering. This upcoming advantage of quick and guided diagnostics- all Aof Eicher branded Trucks and Buses in truck is a completely new generation range of light leading to high performance, higher uptime and Kuwait. KAICO, the exclusive distributor for Eicher &medium duty trucks that is set to change the lower maintenance. This truck will come with 2.1 m since year 2001, has been supporting the brand trucking experience altogether. It is specially wide Pegasus based new generation cab. with an excellent infrastructure facility and large designed for emerging premium segment that sales, service, spare parts network coupled with requires high power and torque combination as Mass market segment robust relationship. KAICO is headed by Ashish well as a greater degree of refinement, sophistica- This truck has undergone very stringent and Tandon, General Manager, the distributorship tion, reliability and performance. grueling test protocols to ensure superior up-time. operations are managed by a team of seasoned It has a 4 Cylinder 4 Valve E-494 CRS technology Extensive testing has been done not only in the professionals who have rich knowledge and expe- engine with Volvo group Engine Management sys- labs and on the Volvo Group’s torture track, but rience of the commercial vehicles industry. tem (EMS) 3.0, which has high processing capabili- also with some of the customers in real conditions On this proud occasion and celebrating India’s ty, optimum balance between load demands, fuel and various applications in Kuwait market. The trucks will look to take on the key segments of food distribution, construction, government ten- ders and contracting which traditionally dominat- ed by the Japanese brands. In addition, it will also address the mass market segment with value fea- tures at low cost of ownership. Eicher has also enriched its footholds in 58 Seater buses which is a Perfect Transportation Partner in the Labour segment. The demo bus for Test Drive is available at the KAICO’s facility in Shuwaikh. The bus comes in many variants like AC/ NAC with double door & HHR seats, AC/ NAC 66 seats with single door & HHR seats The bus has an aero-dynamic design, attractive looks, ABS, tinted glasses, tubeless tyres & elegant interiors and is powered with a 4.9 litre engine delivering 170 HP and 550 Nm of torque, with an optimized drive-line and clutch boosters ensuring a comfortable drive, low cost of operation and low maintenance. These buses are manufactured in Nissan V motion wins Eyes On Design Award Eicher’s own bus body plant in India and offers ide- at North American International Auto Show al transportation solution in Staff/Labor segment to Construction, transport, cleaning and manufac- DUBAI: Vmotion 2.0, a concept vehicle around the world, exemplifies the enor- turing companies. showcasing Nissan’s new sedan design mous potential of Nissan’s newest VE Commercial Vehicles Limited (VECV) is a 50- direction, is the winner of the 2017 Eyes design direction. We’re honored to be 50 joint venture between the Volvo Group (Volvo) On Design Award for Best Concept here and excited to continue to show and Eicher Motors Limited (EML). It is a partnership Vehicle. The concept vehicle also the world the limitless capability of that brings together Global leadership in technolo- received the award for Best Innovative Nissan design.” gy, quality, safety & environmental care along with Use of Color, Graphics and Materials. The Nissan Vmotion 2.0 is the evolution the deep knowledge & understanding of the announcement was made Tuesday at of the “V-motion” front design signature Indian CV market. The vision of the JV is to be rec- the 2017 North American International seen on many of today’s Nissan prod- ognized as an industry leader driving moderniza- Auto Show (NAIAS) Eyes On Design ucts. The award-winning vehicle color, tion in commercial transportation in India and the Awards ceremony, just a day after the Silver Copper, is a unique blend of cop- developing world. vehicle’s global debut. per and other metals, creating a layered VECV has its Eicher commercial vehicle manu- One of the premier awards in trans- effect with different hues and reflections facturing unit in Madhya Pradesh, India. The first portation design, the Eyes On Design in different angles. “In our never-ending Eicher branded truck rolled out from its state of the Awards - selected by a panel of design quest for perfection, over 100 attempts art manufacturing plant in 1986 and over the leaders from around the globe - honor were made to get this color just right,” years, the products have got endorsement from the best production and concept vehi- said Nicole Fonseca, senior color and happy customers of over 400,000 vehicles. Eicher cles making their worldwide auto show materials designer, Nissan Design today has transformed itself into a complete CV debut in Detroit. America, Inc. “On our 101st try - our manufacturer with a wide product range from 5t “Vmotion 2.0 offers a stunning look magic number, apparently - we discov- to 40t GVW trucks and 15 to 65 seater buses. The into the future of Nissan design - fresh ered the perfect blend of 2 copper, silver company’s products strongly emphasize its cus- and dynamic, yet cabin-focused,” said and other metals to create this beautiful, tomer orientation. Eicher vehicles are well known Mamoru Aoki, executive design director, multi-layered paint. Thank you to Eyes in the market for their overall low cost of owner- Nissan Global Design Strategy, Nissan On Design for this distinguished award - ship and the reason can be found in the ‘Eicher Motor Co., Ltd. “This prestigious award, what an excellent testament to the advantages’. At the core of ‘Eicher advantages’ is earned from top design leaders from future of Nissan design.” the Eicher vehicle’s high fuel efficiency. technology THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 Five tips for better email security

By Chris Brown, such as using domain names which look almost iden- removed "peanut dust" fortune. Some might try and rate accounts for different activities: such as an VP EMEA and APAC, Digital Shadows tical to a genuine domain in order to trick you into vis- lure you by claiming to represent a legitimate com- account for work emails, one for personal use, and iting that site. This is known as typo-squatting - for pany, such as a supplier, and will attach documents another one for sites which bombard you with mar- While security is everyone's responsibility, it's not example, www.go0gle[.]com might be used to direct purporting to be invoices in the hope that you'll keting material. always easy to get right. Our "Security Best Practices" users to malware. If it's an address you've never seen take the bait. To top it all off, make sure you enable two factor blog series will provide simple tips that enable users before, try searching online for the email domain to When dealing with email attachments, be extra authentication to make it harder for anyone trying to improve their online security. These articles aren't see if it's from a registered company. careful if asked to enable macros. Macros are bits of to compromise these accounts. For more tips on for pros, but for those trying to get their basics down. code embedded within documents. Though not better password security, check out our previous Even the most sophisticated cyber attacks can 2. Don't click on links always bad, they have historically been used to blog in the series. begin with a relatively simple email compromise. Only Don't directly click on links in an email. Instead, deliver malware. To help combat this, you should last week, we learned that attackers had crafted fake hover over the hyperlink and make sure the URL avoid enabling macros in email attachments, and 5. Limit how widely you share your email email invitations to deliver information stealing mal- matches the page you actually want to visit. Attackers ensure any built-in macro security features are address ware to guests attending a Palo Alto security confer- are becoming savvier, and they often hide fake URLs always turned on. Always think twice about what information you're ence in Indonesia. The attackers cleverly used screen- behind linked image buttons or text links, such as posting online. An exposed email on Facebook or a shots of genuine conference invitations sent by Palo "click here". 4. Use separate accounts and enable two-factor particular forum might be all the invitation someone Alto to deceive the unsuspecting attendees. authentication needs to target you with phishing emails. As well as With this in mind, here are some of our simple tips 3. Don't open unsolicited attachments We know it's tempting to simply use one email this, when you sign up for a service or post your email to help make your email more secure, without the Files aren't always what they appear to be. account across all the online services you are active to a public site, your address can be copied or shared need to set up a private email server. Malware or a virus could be masquerading itself as a on, but in doing so you're playing straight into the to be used by spammers. seemingly benign text or image file. Now these hands of an attacker. If someone manages to break So if you have to share your email address pub- 1. Check your email sources types of emails aren't always that easy to spot, and into that account, then they can probably gain access licly, try and avoid using emails which link to Always check who the email came from. Attackers they won't all be from a Nigerian prince claiming to to all other services using that address (especially if important services - such as Facebook or your use many techniques to try and appear legitimate, hold the key to your long-lost second cousin, twice you use the same password). Consider having sepa- online banking. Diversity in tech: Lots of attention, little progress

NEW YORK: The tech industry brought us self- driving cars, artificial intelligence and 3-D printers. But when it comes to racial and gen- der diversity, its leading companies are no trail- blazers. Despite loudly touted efforts to hire more blacks, Latinos and women, especially in technical and leadership positions, diversity This computer generated handout image released by the European Space Agency on May numbers at the largest tech companies are 15, 2015 shows the impact of the DART (Double Asteroid Redirection Test) projectile on barely budging. In 2014, 2 percent of Googlers the binary asteroid system (65803) Didymos observed by the AIM (Asteroid Impact were black and 3 percent were Hispanic, num- Mission) satellite. — AFP bers that have not changed since. The picture is similar at Facebook and Twitter . Microsoft is slightly more racially diverse (though not Cash crunch for when it comes to gender) and Apple even more so, though still not reflective of the US population. Amazon is more racially diverse asteroid mission still, although it counts a large, lower-wage warehouse workforce in its totals. PARIS: A mission to smash a spacecraft into an last week. "The member states, the ministers, Women, meanwhile, make up less than a third asteroid moon to alter its trajectory, a possible asked me not to give up." Design of the AIM of the workforce at many companies - even less in dry-run for an exercise in saving the Earth from craft was on track, said Woerner, but several engineering and other technical jobs. Tech com- SAN FRANCISCO: In this Jan 3, 2017 photo, Aniyia Williams, founder and CEO of Tinsel (right), talks about Armageddon, has run into a cash crunch. The cost-cutting options were being considered - panies themselves tend to blame a "pipeline program placement with Kara Lee at the offices of Galvanize. — AP proposed joint European-US mission, which including reducing the number of scientific problem," meaning a shortage of women and sounds like it could form the plot for a sci-fi instruments on board. "By doing this, the minorities with technical qualifications. But a Into the Pipeline Hollywood blockbuster, has been dubbed AIDA budget may be lowered to about 150 million number of academic experts, industry employees Some 11 percent of computer science (Asteroid Impact & Deflection Assessment). In euros, launch excluded," AIM scientific head and diversity advocates say there's a bigger prob- graduates were black and 9 percent were Dutchman on trial 2022, the idea is to launch a 600-kg NASA space- Patrick Michel told AFP. lem. Silicon Valley, they argue, has failed to chal- Hispanic in the 2013-14 school year, accord- craft at Didymos, an asteroid some 13 million km The original design for AIM includes a cam- lenge its own unstated assumptions about what ing to the latest data from the US in cyberbully case from Earth, after a two-year self-guided journey era, radio equipment, a tiny lander, mini-satel- makes for great tech employees. Department of Education. Yet only 4 percent "The people who are doing the hiring are not through space. lites and radar instruments. For AIM, the clock is of Google's 2015 hires were black, and 3 per- AMSTERDAM: A man accused of a worldwide cyberbully- changing their thinking around what they view as The craft will crash into the 800 m-wide ticking. Project development contracts with cent were Hispanic. At Intel, fewer than 5 ing racket that got young girls to pose naked before black- qualified," says Leslie Miley, engineering director Didymos' tiny satellite, Didymoon, at a speed of European companies come up for renewal soon. percent of hires were black and 8 percent mailing them went on trial yesterday in Amsterdam, saying at the message-service startup Slack. Hiring man- about six kilometers per second. The aim would "We have about two months left to... find the were Hispanic. Numbers at other tech com- he is innocent of the charges. The defendant Aydin C is sus- agers, he says, spend too much time worrying be to "redirect" the 160-m moon - the first time money," Carnelli said. The $150-million mission panies are comparable. pected of forcing dozens of young women from as far as that applicants who don't fit techie stereotypes humans would have altered the course of a Solar can go ahead with or without Europe. Either Major tech companies have a long tradition Britain, Canada, Norway and the United States into per- aren't "Google-y enough or Facebook-y enough System body. For the European part of the futur- way, the deep space collision will be observed of hiring applicants from top-tier universities - forming sex acts in front of their webcams. or Apple-y enough or Twitter-y enough." Miley, istic project, a small craft dubbed AIM (Asteroid with instruments on Earth. and those universities also have a problem "I deny all charges and will remain silent until my closing who is African-American, previously worked as Impact Mission), will move in close to the action, Scientists believe more than 1,700 asteroids with diversity, even if they're doing slightly statement," a defiant Aydin C - identified only by his first an engineer at Twitter, Apple, Google and Yahoo. observing the crash up close and analysing its are on trajectories that may pose a collision better than the companies. Some minority name because of Dutch privacy rules - told judges at a impact on the moon's structure and orbit. danger to Earth. "We have to keep an eye on applicants, meanwhile, earn their computer- high-security courthouse. The 38-year-old Dutchman faces The Industry is Trying AIM will be fitted with a camera to capture them," said Michel. While strikes by large aster- science chops through community colleges or 72 charges including computer sex crimes such as making Companies are spending a lot of time and images of the impact, which is likely to leave a oids are rare, the fallout can be dire. "If an coding boot camps instead - places often over- and storing of child pornography, blackmail, fraud and hard money on improving diversity. Two years ago, large crater on Didymoon and unleash a mas- asteroid of 150 metres falls on Earth, it will be looked by recruiters. drug possession, prosecutors said. Aydin C is also wanted Intel splashily set itself the goal of achieving full sive cloud of debris. "The goal is to test the like 10,000 Hiroshima (atomic) bombs in terms The few minorities hired into big tech com- for trial in Canada in the case of teen Amanda Todd who representation in its workforce by 2020. Despite technology so that if an asteroid threatens our of energy released." panies can often feel alienated in overwhelm- committed suicide in Oct 2012 after being tormented by an committing $300 million to the effort and mak- planet one day, we will have the capability of In 2013, an asteroid exploded in a blinding ingly white (and sometimes Asian) environ- anonymous cyberbully. changing its trajectory," Ian Carnelli, AIM proj- fireball over Russia, sending debris plummeting ing some early progress , Intel acknowledges ments. Unsurprisingly, they are sometimes there is "a great deal of work to be done." Similar ect head at the European Space Agency (ESA), to Earth. The shockwave exploded windows, reluctant to recommend their employer to Sexual acts programs are in place throughout the industry, told AFP. The mission suffered a major setback, injuring some 1,600 people, and a burst of ultra- friends, classmates and former colleagues, fur- "He posed online as a young woman and established from outreach at high schools and historically however, when European space ministers violet light left more than two dozen people thering the cycle of underrepresentation, trust relationships with 34 young girls, eventually getting black colleges to internship and mentoring pro- gathered in Switzerland in December for a reg- with skin burns. The December meeting in Williams and others say. them to pose naked in front of a webcam," Dutch public grams and sponsorships for coding boot camps. ular policy and budget meeting, rejected fund- Lucerne ended a long period of uncertainty for prosecution service spokesman Lars Stempher told So far, to little avail. ing for AIM. The ESA had sought 250 million two key European projects - the ExoMars mis- When the Culture Doesn't Fit reporters outside the courtroom. Once Aydin C obtained Why? Interviews with more than 30 tech euros ($269 million). sion to place a life-seeking rover on the Red Silicon Valley startups like to talk about "cul- the images, his tone changed and he would start to threat- workers, executives and diversity advocates Planet, and maintaining a presence on the ture fit" - in theory, the question of whether a en the girls, telling them he would show the images to par- suggest the blame lies with subtle biases in Not giving up International Space Station. Last October, a 230- job candidate's attitude and behavior meshes ents, relatives and school friends if they did not do as told. hiring, unwelcoming work environments and a ESA director general Jan Woerner says he million-euro test lander, designed to lay the well with a company. In practice, though, it can "This included performing sexual acts and in the end the paucity of diverse role models in top positions. remains hopeful and stressed "the mission was groundwork for the planned rover, smashed into mean that since a lot of people are white and girls became trapped in his web," Stempher said. Aniyia Williams, founder and CEO of the start- not cancelled". "We are still working on it and I Mars, prompting the ESA to seek additional cash male, they "hire what they know," says Dave Five gay men - mainly in Australia - were also lured in, up Tinsel, says companies should focus on am not giving up," he told journalists in Paris to keep the project alive. — AFP McClure, a prominent angel investor in Silicon when Aydin C allegedly posed as a young boy and "eventu- their own culture rather than blaming external Valley. Larger companies such as Facebook pub- ally he threatened them that he would expose their sexuali- factors they can't control, such as limited com- licly eschew discussions of "fit," although the ty, leading to blackmail". In one case, an amount of 1,000 puter-science education in US schools. It's not notion can unwittingly seep into hiring prac- euros ($1,100) was then paid into an account, the court enough to release diversity reports and say, tices. For example, a 2013 study found that heard. Aydin C used dozens of aliases like "Tyler Boo" and "Oh, not a lot has changed, but it's the world, words used in engineering and programming "Kelsy Rain" and employed different computer tricks, not us that's the problem," she says. Williams, job listings could serve to discourage women including a program to fool young girls into thinking they who is African-American, says she has made from applying. Words like "competitive," "domi- were chatting live to a girl of similar age. sure to hire women as well as underrepresent- nant" and "leader," can make a job seem less Investigators found some 204,000 images on hard disks ed minorities. Tinsel makes tech jewelry target- appealing to women in a field that is already belonging to the accused, but prosecutors did not say what ed at women. male-dominated. the images depicted. Aydin C, who leaned back in his chair Some companies, including Facebook, offer during the hearing, his long greying hair slicked back Why it Matters training on "unconscious bias" to combat the behind his ears, did not respond to questions posed by the Diversity isn't just about fairness. It's about problem. But they don't make such training judge. He was arrested after Facebook rang alarm bells in having designers who reflect the diversity of the mandatory for all employees. And once hired, 2013, telling Dutch police a "sextortionist" - somebody who people they are designing for. For tech compa- people can get lost in the shuffle given the lack uses sex to blackmail others - was at work in The nies hoping to reach millions or billions of users, of role models and mentors in higher ranks - and Netherlands. a lack of diversity could mean their products thus find it difficult to advance. At many places, "will not appeal to a large population," says women and minorities face constant questions Teen suicide Lillian Cassel, chairwoman of computer sciences about their technical knowledge. They can't help Canada has asked for Aydin C to be extradited in the at Villanova University. Diverse perspectives can wondering if they would be taken "more serious- case of teen Amanda Todd who committed suicide in Oct LILLE, France: Estonian defense official Erki Kodar chats with a conference goer as part of also help prevent grievous errors - such as a ly" if they were whiter and male, Williams says. 2012 after being tormented by an anonymous cyberbully. a cyber security conference on Tuesday. — AP problem that arose at Google in 2015, when a "The notorious case, that of Amanda Todd regularly pops photo-recognition feature misidentified black Making Change Happen up in this case docket," Judge Karel Brunner said. "That case faces as gorillas. Cyberconscripts: Baltic Nancy Lee, the Google official in charge of is not before the court today. Obviously the Canadian diversity efforts, says the gorilla face-recognition authorities are planning to prosecute," the judge said. Some related missteps incident was a "wake-up call" for the company. A Dutch court in June last year ruled in favor of Aydin draftees can choose IT • Snapchat released two photo filters that "We need to include all voices from a multitude C's extradition to Canada to stand trial in connection with contorted facial features into bucktoothed LILLE, France: The tiny Baltic nation of cyberconscripts can expect to pass their of backgrounds and experiences (when it comes Todd's death. The extradition case is under appeal before Asian caricatures or blackface . One was lat- Estonia is experimenting with the idea of time on a help desk or doing programming to the) technology we create," she says. "We firm- the Dutch highest Supreme Court. The 15-year-old's sui- er withdrawn after public outcry. The other cyberconscription, a move that gives draftees work, Kodar said. Government agencies and ly believe that good ideas don't come out of cide sparked a worldwide debate about appropriate "expired," and the company said it won't with tech skills the chance to work shoring up militaries across the world have long strug- echo chambers." Lee says things are getting bet- online behavior, and prompted calls for cyberbullying to put it back into circulation. their military's electronic infrastructure, an gled to attract and keep cybersecurity pro- ter, slowly, but that it can be "demoralizing" to be criminalized. • Airbnb initially took no steps to prevent Estonian defense official said Tuesday. The fessionals in the face of fierce private-sector those working on diversity issues to be pressured In a YouTube video watched by millions worldwide, hosts from discriminating against guests experiment involves between 10 and 20 competition, and Kodar said the plan could to do things quickly. "We want to solve this for Todd said before her death that she suffered from anxiety, whose profile photos showed they were draftees, Undersecretary of Defense Erki be a way of drawing them into the country's the long haul," she says. "major depression" and panic attacks after a photo of her black. The practice was corrected after an Kodar told The Associated Press at a cyberse- military or its reserves. But Miley, the former Twitter and Google breasts, flashed in an online video chat with a stranger, outcry. Twitter took nearly a decade to tack- curity conference in Lille, in northern France. In any case he said it didn't make sense to engineer, can't understand why diversifying the was distributed in her community. If extradited, Aydin C le the harassment of women and minorities The pilot program began last summer and waste information technology talent. "Maybe industry's workforce "seems to be such an however will be sent to Canada only after the end of his on its service. will be evaluated after the conscription cycle a highly skilled IT specialist, it's not good to intractable problem". "I wonder if it is coming up trial in the Netherlands prosecutors said, meaning it could In a New York Times opinion piece , ends in June. get them as drivers," he said. Estonia's cyber- against...the deep-seated belief that the people still take years. Commenting on the Dutch case, Aydin C's Microsoft researcher Kate Crawford urged com- Estonia's compulsory military service conscript plan is unusual, but many militaries in these organizations are special and they want lawyer Robert Malewicz told AFP outside the courtroom panies working on artificial intelligence to means teens can serve between eight to 11 - including France, whose cyberdefense to keep out people who are not special," he says. "we are disputing that there is a proper link between the address diversity, warning that otherwise "we months in the military depending on their reserves had a booth at the conference - have "In our country, increasingly the people who are evidence presented and my client". "We will ask for an will see ingrained forms of bias built into the role on whether they serve as sailors, sol- some kind of a call-up force of information not special are the people who are underprivi- acquittal," he said. — AFP artificial intelligence of the future." diers or in other roles. Those accepted as security professionals. — AP leged." — AP THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 HEALTH & SCIENCE Kenyan solar farm powers computers, protects girls OLOSHO-OIBOR: When the first few res- us greatly since you had to part with a Power to the girls powering a centre for vulnerable girls flee- Members of the energy cooperative have idents of this village in the Ngong hills tidy sum,” said Simon Parkesian, the Lydia Mboyo, one of those receiving ing early marriage and female genital been trained to repair and replace worn- installed solar panels, nearly a decade manager of the community’s solar farm. power from the community energy farm, mutilation - both problems common in out parts of wind turbines and solar panels, ago, the only aim was to power their In 2009, some residents of Olosho- said having lights in the evening has the area, Parkesian said. he said. But many repairs require technical own homes, as their town had no con- Oibor, impressed with a first couple of helped her children study and allowed her “The power grid has initiated many knowledge not available in the village, nection to the national power grid. But private solar panels installed in the to run her small retail shop at night. She projects in the community but the most which increases costs and can lead to the today the community, south of Nairobi community, decided they wanted pan- now is making plans to expand her shop important project is the girls’ rescue center system not working for short periods. in the Rift Valley, is buzzing with solar els of their own - but many people and purchase a refrigerator to store per- that houses close to 80 vulnerable girls,” Running the community’s diesel generator and wind energy, which powers every- could not afford them. So a group of ishable food and drinks. “I am also a mem- he said. The centre, opened in 2012, uses to provide back-up lighting at night costs thing from the dispensary and church to community members began contribut- ber of a women’s group that makes and renewable energy to light its dormitories $10 per day, he said. Leah Kaguara, the shops, homes and even a rescue centre ing cash - 10 dollars a month - until sells beaded ornaments abroad, and with and classrooms. Jackline Mwendo, a nurse Africa director for Energy 4 Impact, a non- for girls fleeing child marriage and the they had enough to buy a set of larger lighting we have been able to store our at Olosho-Olbor dispensary, said her facili- governmental organization that supports threat of female genital mutilation. solar panels that could serve many business records in computers. We also lis- ty has been able to offer vaccine services energy access in off-grid communities, said Residents say they banded together nearby homes. They then approached ten to the radio for entertainment while since it got power to provide refrigeration. Olosh-Oibor’s model of communities to buy the shared energy system them- the U.N. Industrial Development beading,” Mboyo said. The dispensary’s water supply has also pulling together to invest in renewable selves, recognising that the substantial Organization for technical help in Parkesian said access to power also has improved as a result of using solar-pow- energy should be encouraged, in part to upfront cost would create benefits for installing their system. spurred creation of a community informa- ered pumps, she said, though she is still overcome the technology’s high upfront years to come. Those now include every- Today the 125-member energy coop- tion and communications technology hoping for additional power to light costs. Access to energy is key to eradicat- thing from vaccines that can now be erative has raised $4,900 for panels - (ICT) centre that has trained more than 40 maternal delivery rooms at night. ing extreme poverty in areas where peo- kept cold at the dispensary to solar-pow- installed on poles around the communi- people in basic computer skills, and that ple still rely on firewood or kerosene for ered pumping of water. “Before we start- ty and on rooftops - and installed two now offers photocopying and printing A sustainable system? energy, she said. One key to making com- ed this solar farm, people from this vil- small wind turbines as well. The commu- services. The centre also allows people to Parkesian said the cost of maintaining munity renewable energy systems work, lage used to travel to Ngong town, nity also has a 10-kilowatt diesel genera- charge their mobile phones, which once the renewable mini-grid has been signifi- she added, is that people should contin- which is 17 kilometers away, to get basic tor as a backup in periods when both had to be switched off to save power cant, and community members have need- ue to pay at least a small amount for the services and goods such as a photocopy sunshine and wind fall short, but that is when not being used to make calls. As ed to contribute $5 a month for continuing power they receive, including to support or a haircut. This used to inconvenience used only occasionally, Parkesian said. well, the renewable energy network is access to power to help pay those costs. maintenance costs. — Reuters

US health officials cancel climate conference and don’t say why NEW YORK: The government’s top public Ebi, a professor of global health at the health agency has canceled a conference University of Washington in Seattle, who next month on climate change and health was invited to speak at the conference. but isn’t saying why publicly. But a co- “In the long run, climate change is sponsor said he was told by the CDC that it affecting the health of Americans,” she said. was worried how the conference would be “At some point, I hope they will go forward viewed by the Trump administration. The with the conference.” Most of the planning incoming administration did not ask or for the meeting began only in the fall and order that the meeting be canceled, said Dr could probably benefit from more time, Georges Benjamin, executive director of said Dr Jonathan Patz, a University of the American Public Health Association. Wisconsin professor of health and the envi- “They had no idea or not whether the ronment who was organizing a conference new administration would be supportive,” session. “Personally, I would not try to over- said Benjamin. His group was a co-sponsor interpret this” cancellation, he said. of the CDC event and has its own climate- Public health experts say climate themed conference planned for change is a man-made problem that con- November. Rather, the decision was “a tributes to a range of health issues and ill- strategic retreat,” intended to head off a nesses, including heat stroke and diseases possible last minute cancellation or other spread by tropical insects. The CDC has a repercussions from Trump officials who $10 million program on climate and health, may prove hostile to spending money on and published guidelines to help local climate change science, Benjamin said health officials deal with human vulnerabil- Monday. “They decided the better part of ity to climate change. valor was to stop and regroup” until it In 2012, Trump tweeted that the con- could be discussed with Trump’s new cept of global warming was created by the health leadership, Benjamin said. A new Chinese to make U.S. manufacturing non- CDC director has not been named. competitive. He later said he was joking, but during the presidential campaign Hope still lingers referred to global warming as “a hoax.” .The Climate and Health Summit, set for Before he took office, Trump met with for- Feb 14-16, was canceled last month. After mer Vice President Al Gore and Leonardo media reports began to appear Monday, DiCaprio, both prominent climate the CDC issued a statement saying it was activists. Trump picked Oklahoma looking at rescheduling the meeting, given Attorney General Scott Pruitt, as head of BANGALORE: This photo taken on January 10, 2017 shows garbage clogging up a storm water drain in Bangalore. — AFP budget constraints and potential overlap the Environmental Protection Agency. with the November conference. Benjamin During his confirmation hearing, Pruitt called the CDC’s decision understandable backed away from his own past statements How India’s ‘Garden City’ but worrisome. He was echoed by Kristie and said climate change is real. — AP became its garbage city Bangalore paying a heavy price for its success BANGALORE: The stench of rubbish hanging leafy suburb called HSR Layout, he thought he GPS devices in dump trucks to ensure crews over swathes of Bangalore is so powerful it rous- was moving into one of Bangalore’s most pris- don’t take short cuts and is reportedly consider- es residents in the middle of the night, the fetid tine neighborhoods. But as part of efforts to ing hiring ex-servicemen with the authority to result of a trash crisis that threatens its reputa- cope with the 3,500 tonnes of rubbish that are fine offenders to enforce “garbage discipline”. tion as one of India’s nicest places to live. Hailed generated in the city every day, the municipality Campaigners say such measures are little more first as the country’s Garden City and then its reopened a mothballed waste treatment plant than sticking plasters and the crisis can only be Silicon Valley, drawing in multinational IT firms near his apartment in 2013. resolved once the municipality increases its and their monied executives, today Bangalore is At the time of construction, the plant was capacity to treat rubbish. paying a heavy price for its success-it’s a city some distance beyond Bangalore’s outskirts “It’s mostly what we call trying to douse the overflowing with garbage, its infrastructure and but it has since been encircled by the urban fire when it happens, instead of a systemic waste collection services unable to keep up with sprawl of the last quarter of a century. Furious approach to resolve these issues,” said Venkatesh decades of unchecked growth. residents, many of them executives for interna- Kannaiah, an activist with the Janaagraha civic “You will wake from your dreams because of tional tech companies, set up a neighborhood organisation. As awareness grows about the the smell,” says local Kamesh Rastogi. “You have association to campaign for the plant’s closure environmental impact of India’s increasingly to close the doors, but even then there is no and relocation. Contacted by AFP, manage- consumerist society, more residents are trying to respite,” he adds. The capital of Karnataka state, ment at the plant said an air filter was being recycle or setting up their own compost heaps. ATLANTA: In this Oct 8, 2013, file photo, a sign marks the entrance to the federal Bangalore was once a favourite retreat for fami- installed to clean up emissions but residents “Bangalore used to be one of the most beau- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). — AP lies seeking respite from the heat of the sur- are unconvinced. “I feel I have to be reincarnat- tiful cities in India, and look at it now,” said rounding southern farming plains and particu- ed to see these changes happening,” one of Myriam Shankar, a member of the Solid Waste larly popular with people in retirement. them quipped. Management Round Table pressure group. For Nigerian mothers, Boko Located on a plateau and blessed with a rela- Shankar, an Italian-German, first arrived in India tively cool climate, the city is dotted with public ‘Garbage discipline’ in 2004. Now married to a lawyer, she regards escape shakes up childbirth parks and gardens as well as a network of lakes. Anger is growing throughout the city, with Bangalore as home. She and her fellow activists But since marketing itself as India’s tech hub, newspapers carrying stories of litter louts being try to raise awareness at schools and in compa- MAIDUGURI: Nestled among dozens of placed are now residing in camps and com- drawing in a raft of multinationals, Bangalore’s beaten up on the streets by furious residents. nies about the advantages of recycling. pregnant women huddled together on munities in Borno state, where aid agencies population has soared from three million at the And rather than its old nickname as India’s Shankar believes things have improved inside benches in the clinic’s antenatal ward, their are offering free health services in camp start of the 1990s to in excess of eight million. The Garden City, Bangalore is now simply dubbed gated communities, where residents are begin- children clad in jumpers, jackets and woolly clinics and state health centres. For many surge has placed huge pressure on its municipali- garbage city. The municipality’s waste manage- ning to come up with their own solutions, but it’s hats against the morning chill, Fatima women uprooted by Boko Haram, like ty, which stands accused of inadequate urban ment team turned down several requests to a different situation beyond the city’s com- Abdulai is glad to have the company. Abdulai, this is the first time they have set planning and, in particular, of failing to cope with speak to AFP. But around a hundred CCTV cam- pounds. “Outside, you have a very diverse society Having fled her home in northeast Nigeria foot in a health facility, or heard about the accompanying rise in waste volumes. eras have been installed to catch fly tippers in and to get all these people singing to the same when Boko Haram militants struck in 2015, antenatal care, birth control and family When Rastogi, who works for the tech firm two districts that have become regular dumping tune, it is difficult. You have things like corrup- Abdulai is preparing for the birth of her planning. “We can challenge the norm of Oracle, bought an apartment a decade ago in a grounds. The municipality has even installed tion, literacy or illiteracy... It takes time.” — AFP eighth child - her first since arriving in giving birth at home ... and have more con- Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state. But versations about women’s health,” said this time, she won’t be alone. John Agbor, Nigeria chief of health for the Bird flu fears “I gave birth to the others on the floor at UN children’s agency (UNICEF). home, alone,” she told the Thomson in China after Reuters Foundation at the Maimusari Family planning fears health centre in Borno, the heart of Boko Many of the women arriving at health 9 deaths this year Haram’s seven-year-long campaign to carve centres for the first time are fearful that out an Islamic caliphate in the northeast. using contraception may leave them per- BEIJING: Nine people have died of bird flu in China “There was no hospital in my village, so I manently infertile, betray their Muslim faith, this year, state media reported yesterday, after the had no choice,” said Abdulai, who now lives or spark a violent reaction from their hus- World Health Organization (WHO) urged all countries in a rented apartment, rather than a camp bands, several midwives said. “Concerned to promptly report human infections. Disease control for the displaced. “But some women in about a cultural and religious backlash, we centres in three provinces including northern Henan, Maiduguri told me to come here ... now I chose to raise awareness about the services central Hunan, and southern Guangdong have report- know the risks of having a baby at home.” by using local volunteers in camps and host ed at least nine deaths from the virus, the official In Nigeria, where many women deliver communities,” said Shehu Dasigit, reproduc- Xinhua news agency reported. without medical care, around one in 125 tive health manager at the International The most recent cases came from Henan, where die during or just after childbirth, making it Rescue Committee (IRC). local health authorities reported deaths of two restau- the world’s fourth most dangerous country Yet the fact that more than two-thirds of rant workers on Tuesday. China has reported over in which to give birth, according to the the displaced in Borno live among commu- 1000 cases, with 38.5 percent of them resulting in World Health Organization (WHO). Many nities rather than in camps makes it harder death, since an outbreak started in March 2013, women in the northeast do not have a to reach and encourage women to seek according to figures from the WHO. The bird flu strain health facility nearby, cannot afford the health services, Dasigit said. However, in H7N9, which can cause serious respiratory illness, transport or healthcare costs, or are com- health centres and camp clinics across strikes most commonly in winter and spring. pelled to deliver at home by their husbands Maiduguri, dozens of women queued So far this season, infections have been reported and families. But the destruction wrought patiently in the heat, saying that they across southern China, including in major cities by Boko Haram in the northeast, which has would happily wait three or four hours to COLOMBO: In this photograph taken on January 24, 2017, a Sri Lankan health worker Shanghai and Hong Kong, Xinhua said. Bird flu scares uprooted more than two million people, be seen. While some of the women in sprays a neighborhood with a fog used to ward off mosquitoes in Biyagama on the out- in the past two years have seen mass culls of up to may eventually improve the sexual and Bakassi camp had decided to come without skirts of Colombo. Mosquito-related dengue cases have risen sharply in and around the tens of thousands of birds in Hong Kong, including as reproductive health of countless women telling their husbands, 25-year-old Zuwaira capital despite dry weather conditions, according to local officials, who have stepped recently as June. — AFP across the region, health workers and Ali could not stop smiling as she attended up efforts to fog residential areas to tackle mosquito breeding areas. — AFP experts say. Some 1.4 million of the dis- her latest antenatal check-up. — Reuters THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 HEALTH & SCIENCE Dying from cancer: Could your location determine your fate? Economic disparities contributing to rise and fall CHICAGO: Americans in certain struggling parts of the country are dying from cancer at rising rates, even as the cancer death rate nationwide continues to fall, an exhaustive new analysis has found. In parts of the country that are relatively poor, and have higher rates of obesity and smok- ing, cancer death rates rose nearly 50 percent, while wealthier pockets of the country saw death rates fall by nearly half. Better screening and treatment have con- tributed to the improvement in the nation as a whole - but the study underscores that not all Americans have benefited from these advances. “We are going in the wrong direction,” said Ali PARIS: In this June 4, 2016 file photo, a woman, at right, takes photos of the flooded Mokdad, the study’s lead author and a professor banks of the Seine river. — AP at the University of Washington’s Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation. “We should be US scientists raise bar going forward, not backward.” for sea level by 2100 This is unacceptable Stark differences in regional cancer death MIAMI: In the last days of Barack Obama’s The US space agency NASA has also rates have been found in previous research, but administration, US government scientists warned that significant sea level rise is this one stands out for providing detailed esti- warned even more sea level rise is expect- “unavoidable,” given mankind’s continued mates for deaths from nearly 30 types of cancer ed by century’s end than previously esti- burning of fossil fuels like oil and gas that in all 3,100 US counties over 35 years. From 1980 mated, due to rapid ice sheet melting at contribute to warming the planet. In 2015, to 2014, the US death rate per 100,000 people NEW ORLEANS: In this April 21, 2015 file photo, a man smokes a cigarette. —AP the poles. The report by the National NASA said the Earth is likely locked in to at for all cancers combined dropped from about developed by the incoming administration will Smoking, obesity, physical activity and Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration least three feet of sea level rise, and proba- 240 to 192 - a 20 percent decline. More than 19 provide resources” for these communities. income explain many of the disparities, said (NOAA) set the “extreme” scenario of global bly more. But the big question remains: million Americans died from cancer during that Researchers estimated county death rates study co-author Dr. Christopher Murray, also at average sea level rise by 2100 to 8.2 feet how soon? Researchers do not know how time, the study found. using US government death records and US the University of Washington. But the study also up half a meter from the last estimate soon the seas will rise, and whether they The picture was rosiest the Colorado ski Census Bureau data. Results were published raises questions. For example, relatively high issued in 2012. will hit these levels in this century or country, where cancer deaths per 100,000 resi- Tuesday in the Journal of the American Medical rates of testicular cancer were found in parts of “We raised the upper limit of our scenarios,” beyond. “We are not projecting anything. dents dropped by almost half, from 130 in 1980 Association. Ahmedin Jemal, an American Southern California and far southern Texas for lead author William Sweet told AFP. “It is possi- Everything is dependent on the amount of to just 70 in 2014; and bleakest in some eastern Cancer Society researcher, said better under- reasons that are unclear. Since treatments for ble. It has a very low probability. But we can’t future heating, ocean and atmospheric Kentucky counties, where they soared by up to standing variations in cancer death rates will this rare cancer are extremely effective, “almost discount it entirely.” The figures are among the heating,” explained Sweet. 45 percent. “We all know this is unacceptable ... help target cancer prevention and control. nobody should die of testicular cancer,” Murray highest ever issued by the US government, in a country that spends more than anybody said. and take into account new scientific studies on Localized results else on health,” Mokdad said. The more striking disparities The poor showing for eastern Kentucky con- the disappearing ice cover in Greenland and Though experts warn that the past is The Affordable Care Act took effect in the -In counties with the highest 2014 cancer trasts with wealthier parts of the state and “is Antarctica. “Recent (scientific) results regarding not an accurate predictor of future sea lev- study’s final years and emphasized prevention death rates, six of the top 10 were in eastern tremendously troubling,” said Ben Chandler, Antarctic ice sheet instability indicate that such el rise, global average sea level has services including no-cost screenings for breast, Kentucky. Six of the 10 lowest rates were in the president of the Foundation for a Healthy outcomes may be more likely than previously climbed eight to nine inches since 1880, colorectal and cervical cancers. Any resulting Colorado Rockies. Kentucky , a nonpartisan group that funds thought,” said the report, released on January when modern record-keeping began. benefits wouldn’t be evident in the latest results, -For lung cancer deaths, four of the five coun- health policy research and advocacy. Chandler 19. It also revised the lower end of the antici- Much of that has taken place in recent since cancer takes years to develop. It’s ties with the highest 2014 rates were in eastern cited poor access to health care and high smok- pated range, saying nearly one foot (0.3 years, as global warming has accelerated. unknown whether similar coverage will be part Kentucky, with rates up to 80 percent higher ing rates and said the disparities highlight a meters) is expected by 2100, up from four Seas around the world have risen an aver- of the replacement system the Trump adminis- than in 1980. Three of the five counties with the need for statewide smoke-free laws. The founda- inches (0.1 meters) previously. This put the age of nearly three inches since 1992. The tration and Congressional Republicans are seek- lowest 2014 rates were in the Colorado Rockies, tion funded a study that found that Kentucky’s NOAA report closer in line with the 2013 NOAA report also pointed to regional dan- ing. An editorial published with the study by where rates dropped by up to 60 percent. 2014 Medicaid expansion under the ACA cov- United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on gers of sea level rise, with some portions of Stephanie Wheeler, a University of North -Death rates for breast and colorectal cancers ered costs for many cancer-related preventive Climate Change, which said global sea levels the US coast more likely to see above-aver- Carolina health policy specialist and Dr Ethan increased in Madison County, Mississippi and in health measures including mammograms and would likely rise from one to three feet by the age rise and increased flooding than other Basch, a University of North Carolina cancer spe- 2014 were at least five times higher there than in colon cancer screenings. How that expanded end of the century. parts of the world. — AFP cialist, notes that many areas with the highest Summit County, Colorado, where the rates fell. access will fare under with the health care law’s cancer death rates also strongly supported These are among cancers that can be successful- expected repeal “has been of great concern to Antibiotics, not dirt, Donald Trump, “raising hopes that future policies ly treated if detected early. us,” Chandler said. — AP fostered hospital bugs Male brains ‘overwhelmed’ PARIS: The superbug C. difficile has sharply Cook, a professor at the University of Oxford. declined in British hospitals over the last Lack of hygiene and improper use of decade due to restrictions in the use of antibiotics were both suspected of playing antibiotics rather than stricter hygiene, a role. A high-profile campaign to “deep in multitasking test: Study researchers said yesterday. Overuse of clean” hospitals was undertaken, along broad-spectrum antibiotics such as with a newly restrictive policy on the use of PARIS: Are women really better at multi-task- der difference in how two relatively simple added the verbal task, we observed that in ciprofloxacin allowed the drug-resistant so-called fluoroquinolone antibiotics in ing? A study yesterday said a tricky brain-teas- behaviours-cognitive control and arm swing- men of all ages and women over 60, this sym- bug to flourish, they reported in The Lancet hospitals. The campaign worked, with the er throws off men’s walking gait but leaves interact with one another,” Killeen told AFP. The metry broke down, with a reduction in right Infectious Diseases, a medical journal. number of infections in Britain dropping by most women unfazed, reopening an age-old team had set out to study how people walk arm swing while the left arm carried on swing- When other bacteria in the gut are killed off 80 percent over the next 10 years. debate about mental gender differences. On a under different conditions, aiming to build a ing normally,” said Killeen. by these antibiotics, the more deadly-and But it remained unclear which of the two treadmill, men-and women over 60 — started database of “normal” gait profiles for treating Does this prove women are better multi- resistant-C. difficile has more room for rap- measures played the greater role. To find swinging their right arm less while grappling people with walking disorders. taskers? “Ha ha! I think this shows that younger id growth, they found. out, Crook and colleagues analysed data on with a complicated language test, researchers They used infrared cameras to record the women may be able to resist interference of Clostridium difficile, or C diff, causes the number of C. difficile infections, and found. Language function and right arm swing treadmill walking patterns of 83 healthy people, these two fairly specific behaviours,” she said. symptoms ranging from diarrhoea to life- the quantity of antibiotics used, both in are both thought to be controlled mainly by aged 18 to 80. The participants were asked to Whether this might apply to other compound threatening inflammation of the colon. It hospitals and by general practitioners. the brain’s left hemisphere. walk-first normally, and then while performing a activities-such as driving and talking or walk- typically affects older adults, and is associ- The also sequenced the genomes of “Women under 60 seemed to be resistant to verbal task called the Stroop test. Developed in ing and texting-has yet to be shown. ated with exposure to hospitals and health- 4,000 different strains of the bacteria to fig- this effect, as they were able to perform the the 1930s, the test involves printing the name of It is also unclear whether a woman’s ability to care facilities. More than half-a-million ure out to which antibiotics they were verbal task with no change in arm swing,” said a colour-such as “red”, “green” or “blue”-in a non- take the verbal brain teaser in her stride confers infections occur every year in the United resistant. They concluded that the C. diffi- study co-author Tim Killeen, a neuroscientist matching colour, then asking a person to say any advantage over men, said Killeen. The fact States, including about 15,000 fatalities. cile epidemic was the unintended conse- from the University Hospital Balgrist in the colour of the ink, not the word itself. that women over 60 lose the capacity may pro- In Britain, the number of reported cases quence of intensive use of the fluoro- Switzerland. “In men and older women, the vide a clue as to its origin, the researchers said. increased steadily from 1990 to 2007, when quinolones. When this class of antibiotic verbal task appears to overwhelm the left brain Better at language? Brain receptors of the female hormone oestro- public concern prompted government was reduced, only the C. difficile bugs to the extent that the movement of the arm on This is difficult, explained Killeen, as the gen may get a bigger boost in younger women, action. “Alarming increases in UK hospital resistant to fluoroquinolones went away. the right is reduced.” human brain “sees” both the written word and who have more of it. “Alternatively, women are infections and fatalities caused by C difficile While hand hygiene to control the spread The “unexpected” findings were published the color of the ink, and must reconcile the often shown to have somewhat better verbal made headline news during the mid-2000s of disease remains essential, expensive in the journal Royal Society Open Science. “We two. During normal walking, the left and right skills than men” and may find the Stroop test and led to accusations of serious failing in deep cleaning on a routine basis was were surprised to find such a consistent gen- arms swung approximately equally. “When we easier, Killeen said by email. — AFP infection control,” said co-author Derrick unnecessary, they said. — AFP WHAT’S ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

Tamdeen Group and MH Alshaya Company sign major leasing deal 22 stores to open in new Al-Kout Mall

amdeen Group - Kuwait’s leading mixed- in the region. The breadth of brands and quali- Kuwait. We are pleased to be working with use property developer - signed a leas- ty of service they offer appeals to the diverse Tamdeen Group once again to introduce some Ting agreement with leading retail fran- aspirations of Kuwaiti residents who are of our most popular brands to the mall and chise operator MH Alshaya Co. to open 22 among some of the world’s most discerning look forward to welcoming customers.” apparel, pharmacy, optical and restaurant shoppers. Al-Kout Mall will be fully leased The new Al-Kout Mall was designed accord- stores in the new Al-Kout Mall which is part of ahead of the project completion date by year- ing to the highest international standards of Al-Kout, the largest mixed-use waterfront des- end, and having MH Alshaya on board is an modern shopping center design that balances tination in Kuwait. expression of investor confidence in the pro- practical design with great experiences. The The agreement between MH Alshaya and ject’s potential.” mall is part of AL-KOUT in the Ahmadi GLA Management - a professional mall-man- Under the deal, the 22 household name Governorate, the largest mixed-use waterfront agement firm that is part of the Tamdeen brands that will join Al-Kout Mall’s growing list development in Kuwait. The project reflects Group - will offer mall visitors a selection of of shops, cafes and restaurants, include: traditional architectural heritage blended with current favorites in MH Alshaya’s portfolio of Victoria’s Secret, American Eagle Outfitters, modern design featuring six different experi- stores, cafe and restaurant brands, as well as a Bath and Body Works, Boots, Claire’s, HandM, ences across entertainment, shopping and number of new brands not yet introduced to Justice, Mac, Next, PF Chang’s, Payless Shoe hospitality in a destination spread over the market. Alshaya’s 75 leading international Source, Starbucks, The Body Shop, Top Shop, 300,000 square meters that visitors can walk brands offer shoppers a wide range of choices VaVaVoom, Vision Express, Mothercare and through seamlessly between its different com- across fashion and footwear, food, health and Foot Locker. ponents. The Al-Kout Mall project is aligned beauty and optics brands. John Hadden, Senior Vice President - Retail with Tamdeen Group’s strategy of transform- Christian Wistrom, General Manager - Property, MH Alshaya Company, said: “We are ing the modern retail sector in the country Leasing, GLA Management, said: “We are very impressed with the vision of Al-Kout Mall whilst encouraging high impact retail entre- delighted to partner with MH Alshaya and are confident that it will become a popu- preneurs to contribute towards innovation in Company who are recognized as retail experts lar destination for residents and visitors to modern retail. Author celebrates Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Amir’s anniversary Spa scoops 20 awards at Horeca uthor Abdulla Abbas Bowair will hold a special ceremony on A record-breaking year for the culinary team ATuesday, January 31, 2017 to com- alented chefs from Jumeirah Messilah the themed celebration cake, live sushi con- highly awaited hospitality exhibition. Our memorate the 11th Anniversary of His Beach Hotel and Spa competed in a test, cold platter display, cold mezzah live and chefs have demonstrated their commitment Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- mystery basket competition. to culinary excellence and dedication to deliv- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah’s assumption Tseries of live culinary shows and won a of power. Members of martyrs’ families total of 20 medals at the sixth edition of The team was also awarded a further sev- er the most memorable dining experiences to will also be honored during the ceremo- Kuwait’s leading food and beverage competi- en bronze medals in the categories of live our guests. I wish to congratulate them for the ny, which takes place at Crowne Plaza tion, the annual Hotel, Restaurant and sandwich, mystery basket, six-course set outstanding level of creativity and passion in Hotel starting from 7:00 pm. A special Catering Awards, as part of the Horeca Kuwait menu display, Asian cuisine live, live pasta, their performances”. short movie about His Highness the Amir 2017 exhibition. cold mezzah live and three plated dessert More than 20 chefs participated in the will be shown, while some traditional Spearheaded by the hotel’s new Executive display in addition to two Boecker Hygiene exhibition’s various categories and were songs and poetry will be performed. Chef Serkan Yelkenbasan, the culinary team Awards in the categories of live sandwich judged by a panel of international chefs from Bowair will also present copies of his exceeded the number of medals this year and Asian cuisine live. the Middle East and Europe, along with mem- book about His Highness the Amir to the with five gold awards in the wedding cake dis- General Manager, Hakan Petek, said: “I am bers from the World Association of Chefs audience. Abdulla Abbas Bowair play competition, three plated desserts, live incredibly proud of our culinary team at Society. pasta contest and live meat team competi- Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa and tion. Another six silver medals were won for continuous participation in the country’s

Koyilandy Koottam Kuwait new office bearers for 2017-18

oyilandy Koottam Kuwait Chapter elect- meeting unanimously elected the following and Hawally). ed their office bearers for the year 2017- office bearers: Further an executive of 20 members were ACK participates in ‘First K2018 at the general body meeting held - Shahul Beypore (President), Dileep also nominated. Chairman (Shahid Siddeeq), in Foke Hall, Abbasiya. The Meeting was Arayadath ( Gen.Secretary), Shahjahan PK Advisory Board Members (Rajagopal presided over by Illyas Bahassan. General (Treasurer). Edavalath, Aboobacker K, Saleh Batha, Raoof Conference on Strategic Secretary Shahul Beypore presented the - Vice Presidents: Musthafa Mythri,Joji Mashoor) and Admin (Manoj Kumar Kappad) annual report and Treasurer Siddeeq Daya Varghese, Secretaries: Akber Uralloor, Rihab will continue for 2017-18 as well. The Meeting Financial Management’ presented the financial report of 2015-2016 Thondiyil. requested Embassy to interfere in the increas- respectively. - Directors : Siddeeq Daya (Charity), Illyas ing crime rates in Abbasiya against the Indian he Australian College of Kuwait tively affect the shareholders and the The meeting was inaugurated by Chapter Bahassan (PR), Sanu Krishnan (Arts), Sadiq expats. Rihab Thondiyil welcomed the (ACK) participated in Kuwait’s ‘First organizational financial performance, Patron Rajagopal Edavalath. Patron K. Thaivalappil (Sports), Aslam Alavi (Media). Audience and Shahjahan P K casted vote of TConference on Strategic Financial which would lead to breakdown of the Aboobacker gave keynote speech on the - Area Conveners: Sharaf Chola (Farwaniya), Thanks. Management’ organized by Infinity financial market and the economy in occasion. Chairman Shahid Siddiq controlled Manjunadh Mathiroly (Fahaheel), Mansoor International Company and held at The general. the election procedure and the general body Mundoth (Abbasiya), Syed Hashim (Salmiya Regency Hotel. ACK was represented by Commenting on his participation, Dr Dr Mohamad Atyeh - Assistant Professor Mohamad Atyeh said: “I felt so honored in the School of Business - who deliv- to take part in this successful event. It is ered a workshop entitled “The very necessary for us as educators to Relationship between Risk and Returns share our experience and knowledge and Its Effects on Financial Market”. with the corporate world to create During his workshop, Dr Atyeh dis- awareness about all aspects that might cussed the corporate governance and its harm any organization.” ACK’s involve- importance in various financial institu- ment in such Industry-related confer- tions. In addition, he recommended ences is of great importance to the reviewing the corporate governance College as these experiences positively rules and regulations on a continuous impact the quality of education deliv- basis to avoid any risks that might nega- ered to its students. Shahid Siddikh Shahul Beypore Dileep Arayadath Shahjahan P.K WHAT’S ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

Frederik Jassogne opens art exhibition in Kuwait

he Ambassador of Belgium to Kuwait events for the Belgian Days in Kuwait. The of embedding digital and interactive tech- times of digital solitude and escapism. designs. Artists and art enthusiasts in Kuwait Andy Detaille inaugurated an art exhi- event took place at Al-Hamra Tower in Sharq. nologies in modern art. By embedding child- Jassogne has mostly been active in the inter- visited the gallery and expressed interest Tbition for Belgian artist Frederik Frederik Jassogne (1984) is an upcoming hood drawings in a digital landscape, the art national theatre and opera-scene since and appreciation for Jassogne’s works. Jassogne, and that as part of a series of artistic talent and has a signature technique of Jassogne offers us emotional resonance in 2008, for which he created artistic video- — Photos by Joseph Shagra

Royal Britannia Kindergarten to hold open day on Jan 28

oyal Britannia Kindergarten (RBK) - for the enrollment of their children for a subsidiary of Education the new academic year starting in RConsortium - is a non-profit September 2017. Kindergarten whose mission is to be the The Open Day will offer a range of leading, culturally diverse and family-ori- complimentary activities for children like ented international preschool with face painting, DIY greenhouse making English as the principal language of and cupcake decorating to provide a instruction. RBK uses the Early Years taste of school life at RBK. All activities will Foundation Stage British curriculum be managed by teaching staff - that way (EFYS) with strong focus in Science, parents can get a feel of the ethos within Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math the classrooms. Additionally, the Royal education. RBK offers wonderful facilities Britannia Academy will be hosting a and activities ranging from hydroponics range of activities for KD 5 per hour. The to cooking, baking and even music. activities include gymnastics, ballet, park- RBK will host an Open Day on our, yoga to name a few. The activity of Saturday, 28th January 2017 from 9 am the day is ‘Karate’, which will be instructed to 2 pm at its campus located in Al- by a highly qualified sensei. For more Sideeq - Block 4, Street 401, Villa 234. The information, parents can visit: objective of this event is for parents to www.rbk.education. experience RBK’s facilities first-hand in order to aid the decision making process THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 TV PROGRAMS

Patrol 13:30 Shake It Up 14:05 How Do They Do It? 02:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 05:15 Key And Peele 13:55 Disney Mickey Mouse 14:30 The Liquidator 03:00 Man Fire Food 05:40 Impractical Jokers 14:00 Welcome To The Ronks 14:55 The Liquidator 03:30 Man Fire Food 06:05 Ridiculousness 14:15 Gravity Falls 15:20 Alaska: The Last Frontier 04:00 Chopped 06:30 Lip Sync Battle 14:40 Hank Zipzer 16:10 What On Earth? 05:00 Guy's Grocery Games 00:00 Zero Tolerance 06:55 Lip Sync Battle 15:05 Star Darlings 17:00 Deadliest Catch 06:00 Barefoot Contessa 01:30 Jennifer's Body 07:20 Frankenfood 15:10 Austin & Ally 17:50 Fast N' Loud 06:30 Barefoot Contessa 03:30 The Pack 07:50 Frankenfood 15:35 Austin & Ally 18:40 Wheeler Dealers 07:00 The Kitchen 05:00 Jurassic Hunters 08:15 Disorderly Conduct: Video On 16:00 Jessie 19:30 How Do They Do It? 08:00 The Pioneer Woman 07:00 Ant-Man Patrol 16:25 Jessie 19:55 How Do They Do It? 08:30 The Pioneer Woman 09:00 The Last Survivors 09:05 Impractical Jokers 16:50 Rolling To The Ronks 20:20 What On Earth? 09:00 Siba's Table 11:00 The Mark: Redemption 09:30 Ridiculousness 17:15 Sunny Bunnies 21:10 The Liquidator 09:30 Siba's Table 13:00 Navy Seals: The Battle For New 09:55 Tosh.0 17:20 Miraculous Tales Of Ladybug And 21:35 The Liquidator 10:00 Valerie's Home Cooking Orleans 10:20 Key And Peele Cat Noir 22:00 So You Think You'd Survive? 10:30 Valerie's Home Cooking 15:00 Ant-Man 10:45 Workaholics 17:45 Elena Of Avalor 22:50 Legend Of Croc Gold 11:00 The Kitchen 17:00 The Last Survivors 11:10 The It Crowd 18:10 Bunk'd 23:40 Treasure Quest: Snake Island 12:00 The Pioneer Woman 18:45 Dragon Blade 11:35 Ridiculousness 18:35 Frozen: Magic Of The Northern 12:30 The Pioneer Woman 21:00 Taken 3 12:00 Lip Sync Battle Lights 13:00 Siba's Table 23:00 Cat Run 2 12:25 Lip Sync Battle 18:40 Girl Meets World 13:30 Siba's Table 12:50 I Live With Models 19:05 Bizaardvark 14:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 13:15 Workaholics 19:30 Liv And Maddie 14:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 13:40 The It Crowd 19:55 Best Friends Whenever 00:00 Programmes Start At 6:00am KSA 15:00 Chopped 14:05 Disorderly Conduct: Video On 20:20 Disney Mickey Mouse 07:00 Danger Mouse 16:00 The Kitchen Patrol 20:25 The Next Step 07:25 Gravity Falls 17:00 Valerie's Home Cooking 14:55 Ridiculousness 20:50 Austin & Ally 07:50 The 7D 17:30 Valerie's Home Cooking 00:00 The Pool Master 15:20 Lip Sync Battle 21:15 Star Darlings 08:00 Star vs The Forces Of Evil 18:00 Chopped 00:55 Gator Boys 15:45 Lip Sync Battle 21:20 Shake It Up 08:15 Counterfeit Cat 19:00 Iron Chef America 01:50 River Monsters: Lair Of Giants 16:10 I Live With Models 21:45 Backstage 08:40 Supa Strikas 20:00 Private Chef 02:45 Going Ape 16:35 Ridiculousness 22:10 Liv And Maddie 09:10 K.C. Undercover 20:30 Private Chef 03:10 Going Ape 17:00 Impractical Jokers 22:35 Cracke 09:35 Star Wars Freemaker Adventures 21:00 Patricia Heaton Parties 03:40 Wild Animal Rescue 17:30 Workaholics 22:40 The Next Step 10:00 Lab Rats 21:30 Patricia Heaton Parties 04:35 Tanked 17:55 Tosh.0 23:05 Best Friends Whenever 10:25 Lab Rats 22:00 Rev Run's Sunday Suppers 05:25 Weird Creatures With Nick Baker 18:25 Workaholics 23:30 Mako Mermaids 10:50 Danger Mouse 22:30 Rev Run's Sunday Suppers 06:15 Gator Boys 18:50 Coaching Bad 23:55 Tsum Tsum Shorts 11:20 Supa Strikas 23:00 Iron Chef America 07:02 River Monsters: Lair Of Giants 19:39 The It Crowd 11:45 Supa Strikas 07:49 The Pool Master 20:03 Lip Sync Battle 12:10 Counterfeit Cat 08:36 Meet The Orangutans 20:27 Lip Sync Battle 12:35 Pair Of Kings 09:00 Meet The Orangutans 20:50 I Live With Models 13:00 Pair Of Kings 09:25 Pit Bulls & Parolees 21:13 Impractical Jokers 13:30 Future-Worm! 10:15 Wild Animal Rescue 21:37 Ridiculousness 13:55 Lab Rats 00:15 Coronation Street 11:10 Weird Creatures With Nick Baker 22:00 The Daily Show With Trevor Noah 00:00 Miles From Tomorrow 14:20 Lab Rats 00:40 Coronation Street 12:05 Tanked 22:30 Inside Amy Schumer 00:30 Miles From Tomorrow 14:45 Atomic Puppet 01:10 The Chase 13:00 Pit Bulls & Parolees 22:54 The Half Hour 00:55 PJ Masks 15:10 Disney Mickey Mouse 02:00 Emmerdale 13:55 Bondi Vet 23:18 Tosh.0 01:20 Henry Hugglemonster 15:15 Marvel's Avengers: Ultron 02:30 Coronation Street 14:20 Bondi Vet 23:42 Tosh.0 01:35 The Hive Revolution 03:00 Coronation Street 14:50 Wild Animal Rescue 01:45 Loopdidoo 15:40 Gamer's Guide To Pretty Much 03:30 Come Dine With Me Couples 15:45 Gator Boys 02:00 Henry Hugglemonster Everything 04:25 Doctor Thorne 16:40 Weird Creatures With Nick Baker 02:15 Calimero 16:05 Lab Rats Elite Force 05:15 Shetland EASY A ON OSN MOVIES COMEDY HD 17:35 Tanked 02:30 Art Attack 16:30 Disney Cookabout 06:15 Arthur & George 18:30 River Monsters (Best Of Series 1-5) 02:50 Zou 16:55 Danger Mouse 07:10 Don't Tell The Bride 09:05 Car Hunters 19:25 The Lion Queen 00:15 What Happened Next? 03:05 Loopdidoo 17:25 K.C. Undercover 08:10 Come Dine With Me Couples 09:30 Pawn Stars 20:20 The Vet Life 00:40 Ultimate Survival 03:20 Henry Hugglemonster 17:50 Future-Worm! 09:00 Doctor Thorne 09:55 Pawn Stars 21:15 Tanked 01:30 Nextworld 03:35 Calimero 18:15 Gravity Falls 10:00 Shetland 10:20 Storage Wars 22:10 Weird Creatures With Nick Baker 02:20 Wildest Africa 03:50 Zou 18:40 Lab Rats: Bionic Island 11:00 Arthur & George 10:45 Storage Wars 00:30 When Sharks Attack 23:05 The Lion Queen 03:10 Finding Bigfoot 04:05 Art Attack 19:05 Disney Mickey Mouse 11:55 Don't Tell The Bride 11:10 American Pickers 01:20 Tiger On The Run 04:00 What Happened Next? 04:30 The Hive 19:10 Supa Strikas 12:55 Come Dine With Me Couples 12:00 Alone 02:10 Dangerous Encounters 04:25 What Happened Next? 04:40 Loopdidoo 19:35 Supa Strikas 13:45 Emmerdale 12:50 Time Team 03:00 The Lakeshore Killers 04:50 Ultimate Survival 04:55 Henry Hugglemonster 20:00 Atomic Puppet 14:15 Coronation Street 13:40 Swamp People 03:50 Killer Shots 05:40 How It's Made 05:10 Art Attack 20:25 Gamer's Guide To Pretty Much 14:45 Coronation Street 14:30 Ax Men 04:45 Ultimate Animals 06:05 How It's Made 05:35 Loopdidoo Everything 15:10 Don't Tell The Bride 15:20 Mountain Men 05:40 Sea Of Hope 01:30 Doctors 06:30 Storm Chasers 05:50 Calimero 20:55 K.C. Undercover 16:10 Come Dine With Me Couples 16:10 Ice Road Truckers 06:35 The Lakeshore Killers 02:05 Eastenders 07:20 Mythbusters 06:05 Art Attack 21:20 Counterfeit Cat 17:00 The Jonathan Ross Show 17:00 Counting Cars 07:30 Killer Shots 02:40 Ripper Street 08:00 Do You Know? 06:30 Henry Hugglemonster 21:45 Mighty Med 17:55 The Jonathan Ross Show 17:25 Counting Cars 22:10 Pickle And Peanut 18:50 Arthur & George 17:50 Pawn Stars 08:25 Ultimate Animals 22:40 Disney Mickey Mouse 19:45 Emmerdale 18:15 Pawn Stars 09:20 Sea Of Hope 22:45 Marvel's Avengers: Ultron 20:15 Coronation Street 18:40 Leepu And Pitbull 10:15 Dr. Oakley: Yukon Vet Revolution 20:45 Coronation Street 19:30 Counting Cars 11:10 Rescue Ink 23:10 Ultimate Spider-Man 21:10 Come Dine With Me Couples 19:55 Car Hunters 12:05 World's Weirdest (2015) 23:35 Boyster 22:00 The Jonathan Ross Show 20:20 Ax Men 13:00 Planet Carnivore 22:55 The Jonathan Ross Show 21:10 American Pickers 13:55 Turf War- Lions And Hippos 23:50 Emmerdale 22:00 Alcatraz: The Search For The Truth 14:50 Planet Carnivore 23:40 Hunting Hitler 15:45 Ultimate Animals 16:40 Unlikely Animal Friends 17:35 Dr. Oakley: Yukon Vet 00:00 E! News 18:30 Rescue Ink 00:15 Botched 19:25 World's Weirdest (2015) 01:05 Botched 00:00 Your Bleeped Up Brain 20:20 Ultimate Animals 01:55 Botched 01:00 The Universe 00:20 Places We Go 21:10 Unlikely Animal Friends 02:50 E! News 02:00 Patton 360 00:45 Places We Go 22:00 Dr. Oakley: Yukon Vet 03:50 LA Clippers Dance Squad 03:00 Mud Men 01:10 My Restaurant In India 22:50 Rescue Ink 04:45 Dash Dolls 04:00 America's Book Of Secrets 01:35 Sara's Australia Unveiled 23:40 World's Weirdest (2015) 05:40 Dash Dolls 04:50 Ancient Aliens 02:00 Ariana's Persian Kitchen 06:30 Celebrity Style Story 05:40 Your Bleeped Up Brain 02:25 A Is For Apple 07:00 Kourtney And Khloe Take The 06:30 The Universe 02:50 Lee Chan's World Food Tour Hamptons 07:20 Patton 360 03:15 Food School 07:55 E! News 08:10 The Universe 03:40 What's For Sale? 08:10 Kourtney And Khloe Take The 09:00 Mud Men 04:05 What's For Sale? Hamptons 10:00 America's Book Of Secrets 04:30 John Torode's Malaysian 00:00 The Grief Tourist 09:10 E! News 11:00 Ancient Aliens Adventure 02:00 Boychoir 10:10 Kourtney And Khloe Take The 12:00 Your Bleeped Up Brain 04:55 John Torode's Malaysian 04:00 Lucky Them Hamptons 13:00 The Universe Adventure 06:00 Every Thing Will Be Fine 11:10 Kourtney And Khloe Take The 14:00 Patton 360 05:20 My Restaurant In India 08:00 Red Wing Hamptons 15:00 Mud Men 05:45 Grandma's Boy 10:00 Jappeloup 12:05 Kourtney And Khloe Take The 16:00 America's Book Of Secrets 06:10 Grandma's Boy 12:15 Boychoir Hamptons 17:00 Ancient Aliens 06:35 Miguel's Tropical Kitchen 14:15 Love Under The Stars ANT-MAN ON OSN MOVIES ACTION 13:00 E! News 18:00 Your Bleeped Up Brain 07:00 Charlie Luxton's Homes By The 16:00 Invasion Day 13:15 Kourtney And Khloe Take The 19:00 The Universe Sea 17:45 Jappeloup 07:50 Ariana's Persian Kitchen 20:00 Posthumous 03:40 Wallander 08:15 Doki 06:45 Zou Hamptons 20:00 Patton 360 08:15 A Is For Apple 22:00 Siberian Education 05:25 Eastenders 08:35 Dick 'n' Dom Go Wild 07:00 Art Attack 14:10 Kourtney And Khloe Take The 21:00 Mud Men 08:40 Lee Chan's World Food Tour 06:00 The Musketeers 09:00 My Cat From Hell 07:30 Henry Hugglemonster Hamptons 22:00 America's Book Of Secrets 09:05 Food School 07:00 Doctors 09:45 How It's Made 07:45 Loopdidoo 15:05 Kourtney And Khloe Take The 23:00 Ancient Aliens 09:30 What's For Sale? 07:30 Doctors 10:05 How It's Made 08:00 Zou Hamptons 09:55 What's For Sale? 08:00 Eastenders 10:30 Nextworld 08:15 Calimero 16:00 E! News 10:20 John Torode's Malaysian 08:35 Holby City 11:20 Mythbusters 08:30 Loopdidoo 16:15 Rob & Chyna Adventure 00:00 Minions 09:35 Stella 12:10 Storm Chasers 08:45 Henry Hugglemonster 17:15 Rob & Chyna 10:45 John Torode's Malaysian 02:00 Clockstoppers 10:25 The Musketeers 13:00 My Cat From Hell 09:00 Minnie's Bow-Toons 18:10 Rob & Chyna Adventure 04:00 Monsterville: The Cabinet Of Souls 11:30 Doctors 13:50 Ultimate Survival 09:05 PJ Masks 19:05 Celebrity Style Story 11:10 My Restaurant In India 06:00 Goosebumps 12:00 Eastenders 14:40 How It's Made 09:15 Goldie & Bear 19:30 Celebrity Style Story 00:30 American Pickers 11:35 Grandma's Boy 08:00 Bark Ranger 12:30 Death In Paradise 15:05 How It's Made 09:30 Jake And The Neverland Pirates 20:00 E! News 01:20 Time Team 12:00 Grandma's Boy 10:00 Minions 13:25 Stella 15:30 Storm Chasers 09:45 Miles From Tomorrow 21:00 Mariah's World 02:10 Counting Cars 12:25 Miguel's Tropical Kitchen 12:00 Goosebumps 14:20 The Musketeers 16:15 Mythbusters 09:55 The Lion Guard 22:00 Mariah's World 02:35 Car Hunters 12:50 Charlie Luxton's Homes By The 14:00 The Boxtrolls 15:15 Doctors 17:00 Doki 10:20 Doc McStuffins 23:00 Celebrity Style Story 03:00 Forged In Fire Sea 16:00 The Last Song 15:45 Eastenders 17:20 Dick 'n' Dom Go Wild 10:35 Goldie & Bear 23:30 Celebrity Style Story 03:50 Storage Wars 13:40 Ariana's Persian Kitchen 18:00 Frozen 16:15 Death In Paradise 17:45 Do You Know? 10:50 Sheriff Callie's Wild West 04:15 American Pickers 14:05 A Is For Apple 20:00 American Girl: Grace Stirs Up 17:10 Stella 18:00 Space Voyages 11:00 PJ Masks 05:05 Pawn Stars 14:35 Lee Chan's World Food Tour Success 18:05 The Musketeers 18:50 NASA's Unexplained Files 11:15 Jake And The Neverland Pirates 05:30 Pawn Stars 15:00 Food School 22:00 Alone For Christmas 19:00 Doctors 19:40 Nextworld 11:30 Minnie's Bow-Toons 06:00 Mountain Men 15:30 What's For Sale? 19:30 Eastenders 20:30 How It's Made 11:35 Sofia The First 07:00 Ice Road Truckers 15:55 David Rocco's Dolce India 20:05 Death In Paradise 20:55 How It's Made 12:00 Sofia The First 00:00 Chopped 07:50 Shipping Wars 16:25 John Torode's Malaysian 21:00 Holby City 21:20 Mythbusters 12:30 Doc McStuffins 01:00 Food Network Star 08:15 Shipping Wars Adventure 22:00 Benidorm 22:10 Space Voyages 12:55 Doc McStuffins 02:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 08:40 Counting Cars 16:50 John Torode's Malaysian 00:15 By The Sea 23:00 Stag 23:00 NASA's Unexplained Files 13:20 Sheriff Callie's Wild West Adventure 02:15 Cut Bank 23:55 Big School 23:50 What Happened Next? 13:50 Sheriff Callie's Wild West 14:15 Gummi Bears 17:20 Grandma's Boy 04:00 A Kind Of Murder 14:40 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 17:45 This Is Brazil 06:00 Love The Coopers 15:10 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 18:40 Miguel's Tropical Kitchen 08:00 Pan 15:35 Jake And The Never Land Pirates 19:10 Charlie Luxton's Homes By The 10:00 A Kind Of Murder 16:00 Jake And The Never Land Pirates Sea 11:45 Spotlight 00:00 My Crazy Ex 16:30 Little Mermaid 20:05 David Rocco's Dolce India 14:00 Love, Rosie 20:30 John Torode's Malaysian 15:45 Alex Of Venice 01:00 American Murder House 00:00 Binny And The Ghost 16:55 Unbungalievable Adventure 17:15 Bridge Of Spies 02:00 Psychic Kids 00:25 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 17:00 Miles From Tomorrow 21:00 John Torode's Malaysian 19:45 Mission: Impossible - Rogue 03:00 50 Ways To Kill Your Lover Witch 17:30 Jake And The Never Land Pirates Adventure Nation 03:30 Frenemies 00:50 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 17:55 The Lion Guard 21:25 Grandma's Boy 22:00 London Has Fallen 04:00 My Crazy Ex Witch 18:20 Goldie & Bear 21:50 This Is Brazil 23:45 Straight Outta Compton 05:00 American Murder House 01:10 Hank Zipzer 18:50 PJ Masks 22:40 Miguel's Tropical Kitchen 06:00 Psychic Kids 01:35 Binny And The Ghost 19:15 Sofia The First 23:05 Charlie Luxton's Homes By The 07:00 50 Ways To Kill Your Lover 02:00 Violetta 19:40 Doc McStuffins Sea 07:30 Frenemies 02:45 The Hive 20:05 Jake And The Never Land Pirates 23:55 Ariana's Persian Kitchen 08:00 Gangs Of Britain... 02:50 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 20:30 Little Mermaid 09:00 Evil Up Close Witch 21:00 Miles From Tomorrow 10:00 Gangs Of Britain... 03:15 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 21:30 Miles From Tomorrow 01:00 Tales Of Halloween 11:00 Homicide Hunter Witch 22:00 Unbungalievable 03:00 Blue Streak 12:00 Crimes That Shook Britain 03:40 Hank Zipzer 22:05 Goldie & Bear 05:00 All About Steve 13:00 Crimes That Shook Britain 04:05 Binny And The Ghost 22:35 Miles From Tomorrow 07:00 Angus Thongs And Perfect 14:00 Crimes That Shook Britain 04:30 Violetta 23:00 Sheriff Callie's Wild West 00:20 Paranatural Snogging¬ 15:00 Crimes That Shook Britain 05:15 The Hive 23:25 Gummi Bears 01:10 Cesar's Recruit: Asia 09:00 Easy A 16:00 Evil Up Close 05:20 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 23:55 Minnie's Bow-Toons 01:35 Hacking The System 11:00 All About Steve 17:00 The First 48 Witch 02:00 Operation Sumatran Rhino 13:00 Ghostbusters 18:00 Homicide Hunter 05:45 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 03:00 Explorer 15:00 Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey 19:00 Gangs Of Britain... Witch 03:55 The Real Saddam Hussein 17:00 Easy A 20:00 Gangs Of Britain... 06:10 Hank Zipzer 04:50 Cesar's Recruit: Asia 19:00 Ghostbusters II 21:00 Nightmare In Suburbia 06:35 Binny And The Ghost 05:15 Hacking The System 21:00 Burying The Ex 22:00 The First 48 07:00 Violetta 00:30 Fast N' Loud 05:45 Chasing UFOs 23:00 Hot Tub Time Machine 2 23:00 Evil Up Close 07:45 The Hive 01:20 Wheeler Dealers 06:40 Strippers: Cars For Cash 07:50 Mouk 02:10 Blowing Up History 07:35 Beyond Magic With DMC 08:00 Jessie 03:00 Mega Shippers 08:30 Megastructures 08:25 Jessie 03:50 Impossible Engineering 09:25 Mega Factories 08:50 Miraculous Tales Of Ladybug And 04:40 Fast N' Loud 10:20 Ancient X-Files Cat Noir 05:30 The Liquidator 11:15 The War Generals 00:05 Tosh.0 09:15 Frozen: Magic Of The Northern 06:00 How Do They Do It? 12:10 WW2 Hell Under The Sea 01:00 Ex Machina 00:30 The Daily Show With Trevor Noah Lights 06:30 How Do They Do It? 13:05 Locked Up Abroad 03:00 Belles Familles 01:00 The Meltdown With Jonah And 09:20 Elena Of Avalor 07:00 Deadliest Catch 14:00 Mega Factories 05:00 Changeling Kumail 09:45 Bunk'd 07:50 Wheeler Dealers 15:00 Megastructures 07:30 The Express 01:25 South Park 10:10 Gravity Falls 08:40 Fast N' Loud 16:00 Beyond Magic With DMC 10:00 Escobar: Paradise Lost 01:50 South Park 10:35 Wizards Of Waverly Place 09:30 What On Earth? 17:00 Final Days Of Anne Frank 12:00 Middle Of Nowhere 02:15 Tosh.0 11:00 Wizards Of Waverly Place 10:20 The Liquidator 19:00 Locked Up Abroad 14:00 Wuthering Heights 02:40 Broad City 11:25 A.N.T. Farm 10:45 How Do They Do It? 20:00 Taboo USA 16:00 Love & Mercy 03:05 South Park 11:50 A.N.T. Farm 11:10 How Do They Do It? 21:00 Final Days Of Anne Frank 18:00 Escobar: Paradise Lost 03:30 South Park 12:15 Good Luck Charlie 11:35 Blowing Up History 22:40 Locked Up Abroad 20:00 Erin Brockovich 04:00 The Daily Show With Trevor Noah 12:40 Good Luck Charlie 12:25 Mega Shippers 23:30 Taboo USA 22:15 Boyhood 04:25 Disorderly Conduct: Video On 13:05 Shake It Up 13:15 Impossible Engineering ALEX OF VENICE ON OSN MOVIES HD Classifieds

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

KNCC PROGRAMME FROM THURSDAY TO WEDNESDAY (26/01/2017 TO 01/02/2017)

SHARQIA-1 MONSTER TRUCKS 5:15 PM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 7:30 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 11:45 AM MONSTER TRUCKS 7:30 PM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 9:45 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 1:45 PM MONSTER TRUCKS 9:45 PM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 12:05 AM AL ATR -Kuwaiti Film 3:45 PM MONSTER TRUCKS 12:05 AM KAABIL- HINDI 5:45 PM AVENUES-1 xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 8:30 PM FANAR-2 KAABIL- HINDI 12:00 PM WEAPONiZED 10:30 PM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 11:45 AM DANGAL -Hindi 3:00 PM WEAPONiZED 12:30 AM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 2:00 PM KAABIL- HINDI 6:15 PM AL ATR - Kwaiti Film 4:45 PM DANGAL -Hindi 9:15 PM SHARQIA-2 RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 6:45 PM KAABIL- HINDI 12:30 AM MONSTER TRUCKS 1:00 PM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 9:00 PM MONSTER TRUCKS 1:30 PM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 11:15 PM AVENUES-2 CHANGE OF NAME FOR SALE FRI MONSTER TRUCKS -3D -4DX 12:45 PM FANAR-3 MONSTER TRUCKS -3D -4DX 3:00 PM MONSTER TRUCKS 3:30 PM For sell new white faux fur DANGAL -Hindi 12:00 PM MONSTER TRUCKS -3D -4DX 5:15 PM I, Joseph Lourito Michael MONSTER TRUCKS 5:45 PM (artificial) coat size M And pre KAABIL- HINDI 3:15 PM MONSTER TRUCKS -3D -4DX 7:30 PM Fernandes, holder of Indian MONSTER TRUCKS 8:00 PM owned like new black leather xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 10:15 PM DANGAL -Hindi 6:15 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE -3D -4DX 10:00 PM Passport No. K-4651486 and coat size M made in Turkey, Tel. xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 12:15 AM KAABIL- HINDI 9:30 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE -3D -4DX 12:15 AM Civil ID 251011600403, issued RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 12:30 AM at Kuwait on 16-03-2012, No: 55020291 SHARQIA-3 AVENUES-3 hereby confirm that I am also RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 11:30 AM FANAR-4 RAEES- HINDI 11:30 AM known by the following ACCOMMODATION RAEES- HINDI 1:45 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 12:00 PM RAEES- HINDI 2:30 PM names Lawrie Fernandes, RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 4:30 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 2:00 PM RAEES- HINDI 5:30 PM Joseph L M Fernandes, RAEES- HINDI 6:45 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 4:00 PM RAEES- HINDI 8:30 PM Joseph Laurito Michael Sharing accommodation RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 9:45 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 6:00 PM RAEES- HINDI 11:30 PM Fernandes. for Filipino Bachelor ONLY RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 12:05 AM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 8:15 PM (C 5261) near Big Jamiya Farwaniya. xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 10:15 PM 360º- 1 26-1-2017 Available already, Contact xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 12:15 AM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 11:30 AM 66826412 or 97512782 MUHALAB-1 RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 1:45 PM I, Iddin Kunhi Pallibali Abbas RAEES- HINDI 12:45 PM FANAR-5 RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter -3D 4:00 PM S/o Abbas Pallibali, Passport BALLERINA 1:45 PM RAEES- HINDI 11:30 AM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 6:15 PM No. L1458495 & Civil ID No. FRI RAEES- HINDI 2:30 PM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 8:30 PM 281060107647. have SITUATION VACANT BALLERINA 3:45 PM RAEES- HINDI 5:30 PM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 10:45 PM changed my name as RAEES- HINDI 5:45 PM RAEES- HINDI 8:30 PM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 1:00 AM Aboobakkar Siddiq vide affi- RAEES- HINDI 8:45 PM RAEES- HINDI 11:30 PM davit dated 14.12.2016 Lady maid is needed to xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 11:45 PM 360º- 2 before notary Sirajuddin, work in the capacity of part MARINA-1 DANGAL -Hindi 1:15 PM Mangalore (C 5259) timer for two or three days MUHALAB-2 RAEES- HINDI 12:00 PM MOANA 1:45 PM a week in a house located RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 12:15 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 2:45 PM FRI I, Jamil Lobo wife of Patrick RAEES- HINDI 4:45 PM DANGAL -Hindi 4:30 PM in Salmiya. Time and salary KAABIL- HINDI 2:30 PM Lobo holder of Indian xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 7:30 PM DANGAL -Hindi 7:45 PM are negotiable. Call RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 5:15 PM Passport No. G3196491 and xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 9:30 PM DANGAL -Hindi 11:00 PM 66417504. (C 5262) KAABIL- HINDI 7:30 PM Civil ID No. 282062803579 xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 11:30 PM 26-1-2017 RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 10:15 PM has changed my name to RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 12:30 AM 360º- 3 MARINA-2 AL ATR -Kuwaiti Film 1:30 PM Jamil Avelino Fernandes MUHALAB-3 xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 11:30 AM SING 3:30 PM hereinafter in all my dealings PRAYER TIMINGS MONSTER TRUCKS 11:45 AM MONSTER TRUCKS 1:30 PM SING 5:45 PM and documents, I will be MONSTER TRUCKS 2:00 PM MONSTER TRUCKS 3:45 PM AL ATR -Kuwaiti Film 8:00 PM known by name of Jamil Fajr: 05:18 MONSTER TRUCKS 4:15 PM AL ATR -Kuwaiti Film 6:00 PM AL ATR -Kuwaiti Film 10:00 PM Avelino Fernandes. (C 5260) MONSTER TRUCKS 6:30 PM MONSTER TRUCKS 8:00 PM AL ATR -Kuwaiti Film 12:05 AM 23-1-2017 Shorook 06:41 xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 8:45 PM MONSTER TRUCKS 10:15 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 10:45 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 12:30 AM AL-KOUT.1 Automated enquiry Duhr: 12:01 xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 12:45 AM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 12:30 PM MARINA-3 xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 2:30 PM about the Asr: 15:00 FANAR-1 RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 12:45 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 4:30 PM Civil ID card is MONSTER TRUCKS 12:45 PM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 3:00 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 6:30 PM Maghrib: 17:21 MONSTER TRUCKS 3:00 PM RESIDENT EVIL: The Final Chapter 5:15 PM xXx: RETURN OF XANDER CAGE 8:30 PM 1889988 Isha: 18:41

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

Arrival Flights on Thursday 26/1/2017 KAC 788 Jeddah 13:45 Departure Flights on Thursday 26/1/2017 KAC 155 Istanbul 13:50 Airlines Flt Route Time FEG 931 Alexandria 13:55 Airlines Flt Route Time MSR 611 Cairo 14:00 KLM 411 Amsterdam/Dammam 00:20 KNE 231 Riyadh 13:55 AIC 976 Goa/Chennai 00:05 FDB 076 Dubai 14:05 JZR 267 Beirut 00:30 QTR 1078 Doha 14:10 PIA 240 Sialkot 00:40 AXB 394 Kozhikode 14:10 JZR 539 Cairo 00:40 SVA 500 Jeddah 14:15 FDB 072 Dubai 00:40 UAE 872 Dubai 14:15 KAC 102 London 00:55 FDB 059 Dubai 14:20 JAI 573 Mumbai 00:50 KAC 561 Amman 14:20 THY 772 Istanbul 00:55 KAC 692 Muscat 14:30 BBC 044 Dhaka 01:30 KAC 521 Al Najaf 14:45 MSC 411 Asyut 01:00 KAC 414 Bangkok 14:35 KLM 411 Amsterdam 01:35 KNE 382 Taif 14:50 RJA 642 Amman 01:05 GFA 221 Bahrain 14:40 MSC 412 Asyut 01:55 BON 102 Sarajevo 14:55 QTR 1086 Doha 01:15 KAC 542 Cairo 14:45 KAC 417 Manila 02:00 FEG 932 Alexandria 14:55 SAI 441 Lahore 01:30 KAC 672 Dubai 14:50 THY 773 Istanbul 02:25 KAC 673 Dubai 15:00 DLH 635 Doha 01:55 KNE 529 Jeddah 14:55 SAI 442 Lahore 02:30 FDB 060 Dubai 15:10 PGT 858 Istanbul 02:00 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 15:15 DLH 635 Frankfurt 02:55 KAC 785 Jeddah 15:15 AXB 395 Kozhikode 02:00 OMA 645 Muscat 15:35 AXB 396 Kozhikode 02:55 PAL 669 Manila 15:20 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 02:05 UAE 857 Dubai 15:45 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 03:05 GFA 222 Bahrain 15:25 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:30 ABY 127 Sharjah 15:50 PGT 859 Istanbul 03:35 QTR 1079 Doha 15:40 UAE 853 Dubai 02:30 KAC 154 Istanbul 15:55 UAE 854 Dubai 03:45 JZR 188 Dubai 15:40 OMA 643 Muscat 02:55 SAW 705 Damascus 16:00 KKK 6505 Istanbul 03:55 SVA 501 Jeddah 15:45 KKK 6506 Istanbul 02:55 KNE 531 Jeddah 16:05 OMA 644 Muscat 03:55 KNE 530 Jeddah 15:55 FDB 069 Dubai 03:05 JZR 535 Cairo 16:10 MSR 613 Cairo 04:10 KAC 283 Dhaka 16:15 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:10 ETD 304 Abu Dhabi 16:20 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 03:10 JZR 779 Jeddah 16:10 KAC 167 Paris 04:25 KAC 357 Kochi 16:20 MSR 612 Cairo 03:10 QTR 1072 Doha 16:10 QTR 1077 Doha 04:40 ABY 128 Sharjah 16:30 QTR 1076 Doha 03:30 FDB 051 Dubai 16:25 LMU 511 Cairo 05:00 OMA 646 Muscat 16:35 KAC 546 Cairo 03:55 KAC 662 Abu Dhabi 16:35 MSC 502 Alexandria 05:05 SAW 706 Damascus 16:55 LMU 510 Cairo 04:00 RJA 640 Amman 16:55 QTR 1087 Doha 05:50 KNE 532 Jeddah 16:55 MSC 501 Alexandria 04:05 JZR 787 Riyadh 17:00 FEG 954 Asyut 06:00 KAC 675 Dubai 17:00 KAC 118 New York 17:00 KAC 418 Manila 04:25 JZR 560 Sohag 06:05 JZR 266 Beirut 17:05 ETD 9891 BRU 04:30 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:15 DHX 173 Bahrain 06:20 JZR 240 Amman 17:15 KAC 284 Dhaka 04:55 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 FDB 070 Dubai 06:30 FDB 052 Dubai 17:25 FEG 933 Sohag 05:00 JZR 777 Jeddah 17:45 ETD 9891 Abu Dhabi 06:30 KAC 615 Bahrain 17:35 JZR 503 Luxor 05:10 NIA 251 Alexandria 17:55 THY 771 Istanbul 06:50 QTR 1073 Doha 17:40 JZR 529 Asyut 05:15 UAE 875 Dubai 18:00 KAC 153 Istanbul 06:50 KAC 343 Chennai 17:40 KAC 354 BLR 05:20 FDB 063 Dubai 18:10 KAC 165 Rome 06:55 UAE 858 Cairo 17:45 DHX 170 Bahrain 05:20 JZR 177 Dubai 18:20 JZR 164 Dubai 06:55 RJA 641 Amman 17:55 KAC 332 Trivandrum 05:45 KAC 522 Al Najaf 18:25 RJA 643 Amman 07:05 KAC 331 Trivandrum 18:00 THY 770 Istanbul 05:55 MSR 620 Cairo 18:30 JZR 238 Amman 07:10 SVA 511 Riyadh 18:15 KAC 364 Colombo 06:05 QTR 1080 Doha 18:50 GFA 212 Bahrain 07:15 KAC 353 BLR 18:15 KAC 206 Islamabad 06:20 ABY 123 Sharjah 19:25 KAC 541 Cairo 07:15 GFA 216 Bahrain 18:20 KAC 346 Ahmedabad 06:25 KAC 502 Beirut 19:30 KAC 773 Riyadh 07:30 JZR 184 Dubai 18:40 BAW 157 London 06:40 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:30 KAC 787 Jeddah 07:45 NIA 252 Alexandria 18:55 PAL 668 Manila/Dubai 07:00 KAC 674 Dubai 19:45 FDB 5062 Dubai 07:55 FDB 064 Dubai 19:05 KAC 204 Lahore 07:15 FDB 057 Dubai 19:50 KAC 563 Amman 08:00 JZR 124 Bahrain 19:15 FDB 5061 Dubai 07:15 KAC 166 Rome 19:55 KAC 411 Bangkok 08:20 UAE 876 Dubai 19:30 FDB 053 Dubai 07:50 KAC 168 Paris 19:55 BAW 156 London 08:40 MSR 621 Cairo 19:30 QTR 8511 Doha 08:00 KNE 381 Taif 19:55 KAC 173 Munich 08:50 QTR 1081 Doha 19:50 KAC 302 Mumbai 08:20 KAC 562 Amman 20:00 FDB 054 Dubai 08:55 ABY 124 Sharjah 20:05 GFA 218 Bahrain 20:15 UAE 855 Dubai 08:40 MSR 618 Alexandria 20:05 KAC 743 Dammam 09:00 KAC 382 Delhi 08:45 KAC 691 Muscat 09:00 KAC 383 Delhi 20:30 OMA 647 Muscat 20:10 IRA 667 Esfahan 09:00 KAC 117 New York 09:00 FDB 058 Dubai 20:35 JZR 189 Dubai 20:15 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 09:05 JZR 534 Cairo 09:15 KAC 361 Colombo 20:35 QTR 1088 Doha 20:35 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:05 KAC 101 London 09:35 KAC 775 Riyadh 20:45 DLH 634 Frankfurt 20:45 KAC 352 Kochi 09:10 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:45 KNE 232 Riyadh 20:55 FDB 5053 Dubai 20:50 QTR 1070 Doha 09:30 UAE 856 Dubai 09:55 MSR 619 Alexandria 21:05 KAC 616 Bahrain 20:50 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 QTR 8512 Doha 10:00 OMA 648 Muscat 21:10 JAI 572 Mumbai 20:55 IRA 673 Ahwaz 10:10 IRA 668 Mashhad 10:00 KAC 619 Doha 21:20 AVV 653 Sohag 10:10 KAC 786 Jeddah 21:15 KAC 671 Dubai 10:05 QTR 1089 Doha 21:35 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:20 ETD 302 Abu Dhabi 10:10 DLH 634 Doha 21:35 SYR 341 Damascus 11:00 MEA 402 Beirut 21:20 JZR 778 Jeddah 10:30 DHX 171 Bahrain 21:50 KAC 774 Riyadh 11:05 ALK 229 Colombo 21:25 FDB 056 Dubai 10:35 FDB 5054 Dubai 21:50 RBG 553 Alexandria 11:15 UAE 859 Dubai 21:40 QTR 1071 Doha 10:40 JAI 571 Mumbai 21:55 MSC 403 Asyut 11:15 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:45 AVV 654 Asyut 11:10 KAC 205 Islamabad 22:00 JZR 165 Dubai 11:30 KAC 676 Dubai 21:45 IRA 672 Ahwaz 11:10 KAC 351 Kochi 22:00 FDK 801 Damascus 11:45 KAC 174 Munich 22:00 KAC 501 Beirut 11:15 KAC 783 Jeddah 22:10 MEA 404 Beirut 11:55 QTR 1082 Doha 22:00 GFA 214 Bahrain 11:25 ETD 308 Abu Dhabi 22:15 KAC 744 Dammam 12:10 KLM 417 Amsterdam 22:05 RBG 554 Alexandria 11:55 MEA 403 Beirut 22:20 FEG 953 Asyut 12:35 JZR 125 Bahrain 22:05 SYR 342 Damascus 12:00 ALK 230 Colombo 22:25 KAC 661 Dhabi 12:05 GFA 220 Bahrain 22:30 JZR 561 Sohag 12:40 NIA 151 Cairo 22:10 JZR 776 Jeddah 12:05 KAC 301 Mumbai 22:45 JZR 239 Amman 12:45 ETD 309 Abu Dhabi 22:15 MSC 404 Asyut 12:15 KAC 1543 Cairo 22:45 UAE 871 Dubai 12:50 AIC 981 Chennai/Ahmedabad 22:25 FDK 802 Damascus 12:45 KAC 381 Delhi 22:45 FDB 075 Dubai 12:50 JZR 241 Amman 22:45 MEA 405 Beirut 12:55 UAE 860 Dubai 22:55 MSR 610 Cairo 13:00 JZR 185 Dubai 23:15 FEG 934 Sohag 13:35 KLM 417 Dammam/Amsterdam 23:05 AXB 393 Kozhikode 13:10 KAC 156 Istanbul 23:25 JZR 176 Dubai 13:45 ETD 310 Abu Dhabi 23:05 FDB 071 Dubai 23:45 BON 101 Sarajevo 13:30 JZR 786 Riyadh 13:45 NIA 152 Cairo 23:10 KAC 564 Amman 13:40 JAI 574 Mumbai 23:50 stars34 THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

CROSSWORD 1502 STAR TRACK

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

You may finally see some closure on unfinished business this day. Your cur- Political projects are easy for you and others are in your court, so to speak. rent situation may demand some reevaluation or otherwise challenge your Ideas of group cooperation and communion could further your career or status. Perhaps ideas. Do not be hesitant in getting a consultation on an ongoing project. Unless some- you will be president of some club or organization. Real insight into your own inner work- thing is falling apart, now may not be the best time to begin a new project at work or ings or psychology could surface today and in a manageable form. You may be in the home. Energy, drive and an expansive display of talent are yours to command. It is an mood for deep and penetrating conversations or thoughts this afternoon. You are in a excellent time to take a little break for your favorite sport or hobby this afternoon. You mood of self-enjoyment and can appreciate your progress. You may see value in or feel may have to restrain the actions of a young person tonight. This person needs to know his love for an older person or someone in authority this afternoon. Connections with people or her limitations and it is important for you to make your meaning clear. If you are mar- on a grand scale play a big part of your evening. Education, advertising and travel could ried, find something pleasant you and your loved one can do together tonight. play a part in the planning of your near future.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Scorpio (October 23-November 21) An authority figure may be making new plans that are confusing to you; you may be a bit restless. Instead of trying to figure out where you fit in the scenario, stop This is a lucky day for you. Whatever you set out to do will be a positive in and ask. You are able to cut through the red tape and get at what is beneath and behind. your direction. If your concentration, however, is too focused you could overlook some fun Stability and permanence satisfy a deep emotional need. This is a good day for dealing activities. Later today, your input is important regarding a meeting with a senior co-work- with the subtle, sublime and complex matters of life-have confidence. Work on a financial er. Careful, patience now will be what gets your message across in less time than it would if plan today. Music is likely to play a more important role for you than usual-perhaps this is you fell into the temptation of being abrupt. Security, savings, expenses and cost of living your hobby. Good eye-hand coordination and a sustained effort make almost any task run are illuminated now. Read the financial pages of your newspaper carefully for hints about well. This afternoon you may feel like exercising or getting out and breathing a bit of fresh what you can expect at this time. Excellent trends exist for travel. You might talk with fel- air. Emotions are very present but within control. low travelers and enjoy socializing with others-perhaps neighbors-to compare vacations for future development.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

You have a feeling of optimism before a contest, competition or some other There is a lot of energy at this time to accomplish a great deal in your pro- performance type of activity this morning. There is a lot of activity to improve and encour- fessional life. People can depend on what you say as wise and truthful. If age you this week. Your colors at this time are coral and buff. This week brings opportuni- you are in the design, counseling or financial profession, you will have a large following. ties for you to balance the budget, work on your goals and detect ways to improve the You happily squeeze in new clients or customers and give them your complete attention ACROSS 5. (of winds) Coming from the sea toward the income. Now is the best time to enjoy the moment; take a deep breath and look around. for an allotted amount of time. You have confidence in your own ability to solve problems 1. An ester of adenosine that is converted to land. When you feel that you have some doubt about your abilities, create a sense of self-confi- and may find yourself quite busy this day. Some intuitive thinking on your part may lead ATP for energy storage. 6. (Middle East) Usually small round bread that dence-you can do anything, once you set this in your mind. Your appreciation of family you to work on a difficult relationship in or near your own home this evening. This situa- tion may take small increments of time to be solved, perhaps through a period of trial and 4. Having two feet. can open into a pocket for filling. and friends is heartwarming. Young children love to have you read to them. Your expres- sion of love brings a wonderful feeling of inner peace. error. In the end, you will be pleased with the outcome of your struggles. 11. An Indian unit of length having different 7. A genus of small kites of both Old and New values in different localities. Worlds. 15. Any of numerous hairy-bodied insects 8. A state of dishonor. including social and solitary species. 9. Black tropical American cuckoo. Cancer (June 21-July 22) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) 16. Oily poisonous liquid amine obtained from 10. A unit of length of thread or yarn. Good fortune will light up your life today. Do not worry if duties at home are nitrobenzene and used to make dyes and 11. Enchanter's nightshade. You may be learning new ways to express yourself today. A seminar or lec- 12. Using speech rather than writing. not accomplished just now; you may need to be more attentive to a pending project in plastics and medicines. the workplace. Tension can work against you, exhausting your vitality. If you are single, you ture could be open to everyone and you could take a mate or an adult child. Mental disci- pline should come easily as you work to solve a puzzle or quiz. Problems and obstacles 17. A republic in the Middle East in western 13. Large ornamental tropical American tree may be thinking of reasons why a support system is so important and how you can began that have been puzzling in the past should now find easy explanations. Habits are in a Asia. with bipinnate leaves and globose clusters to create a support system in the future. If you are married, you might consider trading of flowers with crimson stamens and cycle of change; pat yourself on the back for a job well done. The changes you make now 18. A compartment in front of a motor vehicle chores with another so as to help you take a break from your own chores. Remember to could include stopping smoking, or some other vice that is not good for your health. Being where driver sits. sweet-pulp seed pods eaten by cattle. breathe deeply. Search for a neighborhood service to walk your dog or some other service on the go and keeping a finger to the winds of change make you feel in touch with the 14. Sports equipment that is worn on the feet that may be helpful. This way you will be able to free up some time for more productive world. Learning and communicating is fun; however, this evening you and your family or 19. Inability to stand due to muscular incoordi- expressions of your talents or perhaps merely a break. nation. to enable the wearer to glide along on friends may deeply enjoy a science fiction or scary movie. 20. Avatar of Vishnu. wheels and to be propelled by the alter- 21. The second largest city in Tunisia. nate actions of the legs. 23. A special way of doing something. 22. Abnormal dryness of the conjunctiva and Leo (July 23-August 22) Aquarius (January 20- February 18) 25. The capital and largest city of Japan. cornea of the eyes. 24. Electronic warfare undertaken to insure Your self-esteem is noticeably improved-adding a glow of confidence to 27. A nettle yielding fiber resembling flax. your personal expression. You feel more confident in most matters. This could mean work- Get your cheerful self motivated to focus toward your wo rk at this time. Yo u effective friendly use of the electromag- might rather stay distracted with someone's update of a love life, but it would be best to 30. A colorless odorless gaseous element that ing with others on a project or team sports, expressing your talents, giving criticisms or netic spectrum in spite of the enemy's use stay the course, particularly where your work is concerned. Your friendly good nature give a red glow in a vacuum tube. guiding others. You will get the best benefit from your urge to be competitive by involving of electronic warfare. shines most of this day and you may fo rget any plans that might be set up for this 31. A player who makes a score in a game or yourself in some type of team or sports competition. A big surprise is coming to you in the evening-careful. We ll-wishers stop you many times to wish you a good day. A mento r 26. An instrumentality invented for a particular mail-the check is larger than you expected. Now is the perfect time to ask a loved one for contest. comes to mind this afte rnoon as you struggle once again to concentrate and tend to your purpose. some help or guidance with regard to this money. Applying your imagination and creativi- 34. (historically) A member of the nomadic work. Any doubts about your performance in the workplace can be left aside; your skills 28. A conveyance that transports passengers ty in practical ways works to your advantage this evening as you plan on some important are in fine shape and you honor all your responsibilities. Tonight you have the opportunity people of the Syrian and Arabian deserts changes around your place. or freight in carriers suspended from to just sit back and let others ente rtain yo u. at the time of the Roman Empire. cables and supported by a series of tow- 35. A port city in northwestern Germany. ers. 37. A white metallic element that burns with a 29. A state in midwestern United States. Virgo (August 23-September 22) Pisces (February 19-March 20) brilliant light. 32. A high-crowned black cap (usually made of Meeting yourself in another person is the keynote of a new cycle that 38. Informal terms for a mother. felt or sheepskin) worn by men in Turkey When you entertain, it is as though someone is creating magic. You may 41. Fragrant resin obtain from trees of the fam- begins now. Relationships-romantic, business and social-are the arenas where this drama soon want to organize a social event. This brings out your well-developed and Iran and the Caucasus. is played. In coming to know the other person, you grow in strength and knowledge-psy- ily Burseraceae and used as incense. 33. A member of the Iroquoian people former- organizational skills. This social event could be the fundraiser you have been looking to chological and otherwise. Try to understand that time is not wasted if you are doing create so that your local community will have a defibrillator in each of the sports arenas 42. Swelling from excessive accumulation of ly living east of Lake Ontario. something you really like to do, rather than doing something for which you are paid. The serous fluid in tissue. and gyms in your city. With your determination and professional abilities, you will exceed 36. 40th President of the United States (1911- ). therapeutic result from creative endeavors now cannot be measured. Creative works will your goals. Anything leftover can be put in a teddy bear fund for children. If you run a fam- 46. Plants having flowers in umbels. 39. Jordan's port. help to offset negative feelings. You will gain a great deal of satisfaction if you find a sub- ily business, this is the type of offering your family can do together to help accomplish this ject to absorb. Encouragement from others and the interchange of ideas can spark your 48. Straggling shrub with narrow leaves and 40. United States naval officer and historian for your community. As your career responsibilities increase this year, so does the stress; energy and create an upbeat frame of mind. conspicuous red flowers in dense globular (1840-1914). begin now to make wise choices when it comes to food and exercise. racemes. 43. A notable achievement. 51. A unit of absorbed ionizing radiation equal 44. A river in north central Switzerland that Word Search to 100 ergs per gram of irradiated materi- runs northeast into the Rhine. Yesterday Solution al. 45. Of or relating to near the ear. 52. At or constituting a border or edge. 47. Tropical starchy tuberous root. 53. Brazilian tree with handsomely marked 49. Deeply moved. wood. 50. Small space in a tissue or part such as the 54. Any of a number of fishes of the family area between veins on a leaf or an insect's Carangidae. wing. 56. An informal term for a father. 55. Quieten or silence (a sound) or make (an 58. Wood of a pecan tree. image) less visible. 59. An associate degree in nursing. 57. Basic principles of the cosmos. 61. Cubes of meat marinated and cooked on a 60. A Russian river. skewer usually with vegetables. 62. Mild yellow Dutch cheese made in balls. 66. Young sheep. 63. A Chadic language spoken in northern 70. (Babylonian) God of storms and wind. Nigeria. 74. Produced by a manufacturing process. 64. A United Nations agency created to assist 75. Soup cooked in a large pot. developing nations by loans guaranteed 77. A federal agency that supervises carriers by member governments. that transport goods and people between 65. Most important element. states. 67. Harsh or corrosive in tone. 78. A primeval personification of air and 68. Any of various minerals consisting of breath. hydrous silicates of aluminum or potassi- 79. (of tempo) Moderately slow n. um etc. that crystallize in forms that allow 80. The longer of the two telegraphic signals perfect cleavage into very thin leaves. used in Morse code. 69. German organist and contrapuntist (1685- 1750). DOWN 71. A benevolent aspect of Devi. 1. The elementary stages of any subject (usual- 72. An adult male person (as opposed to a ly plural). woman). 2. Lacking or deprive of the sense of hearing 73. A fixed charge for a privilege or for profes- wholly or in part. sional services. 76. (astronomy) A measure of time defined by 3. Having nine hinged bands of bony plates. Earth's orbital motion. 4. The cry made by sheep.

Yesterday’s Solution

Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution lifestyle THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

MUSIC & MOVIES Sundance turns lens on Syrian civil war, jihadism

n early 2014, the Islamic State group entered the northern "I knew I wanted to juxtapose this journey with the Syrian city of Raqa, declaring it their capital and beginning amazing footage that they had from inside Raqa to show life Ia reign of terror marked by grisly public executions. Armed under the caliphate, the formation of the capital of ISIS," sharia police patrolled the streets as "enemies" of the regime Heineman said. were crucified or decapitated, their severed heads impaled on spikes in the city square. Reluctant heroes Student Abdalaziz Al-Hamza and his friends decided to Heineman's story starts in Raqa but evolves into a rare form Raqa is Being Silently Slaughtered (RBSS), a band of human take on Europe's migrant crisis, as well as a moving courageous citizen journalists who risk their lives to docu- chronicle of brotherhood and coping with trauma. Elsewhere ment IS atrocities. Their work is chronicled in "City of Ghosts," at Sundance, "Last Men in Aleppo," a documentary on the by Oscar-nominated director Matthew Heineman, one of a raft Syrian city's "White Helmet" first responders, also got its pre- of films on conflict and jihadist terror in the Middle East that miere. A collaboration between Syrian filmmaker Firas Fayyad, premiered this week at the annual Sundance Film Festival. "So Danish filmmaker Steen Johannessen, and the Aleppo Media often in documentaries, subjects become caricatures of what- Center, it follows three reluctant heroes who rush toward ever they're doing in life. For me, that's not very interesting," bomb sites while others run away. Heineman, 33, told AFP. "Cries from Syria," a third film on the crisis making its "I very much wanted to spend as much time as possible to debut, tells how the country's people, inspired by events in understand who these guys are, what makes them tick, what Tunisia, Libya and Egypt, rose up against the dictatorial rule of are their emotions, feelings and thoughts. "Until I get to that President Bashar Al-Assad. The Islamic State's influence has level of intimacy, I don't feel like I have a film." No journalist spread far beyond the Middle East, and last week the festival has been able to enter the region, allowing IS-also referred to screened a startling film about the kidnapping of 276 girls as ISIS-to control the message about what is happening in from the Nigerian town of Chibok by IS-affiliated militants Raqa via increasingly slick videos. While IS paints a picture of Boko Haram. Documentary short "Waiting for Hassana," by a fully-functioning, prosperous city, RBSS has been able to Mohamad Al-Musari, from left, Hamoud Al-Mousa, director Matthew Heineman and Abdalaziz Al-Hamza pose for a por- first-time director Funa Maduka, tells the story of the abduc- capture the shocking brutality and dysfunction of everyday trait to promote the film, "City of Ghosts", at the Music Lodge during the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. — AP tions from the perspective of one of 57 girls who managed to life in the city of one million. Following a lightning offensive RBSS documents the atrocities committed daily by the plight of Syrians was becoming a near-daily part of the news escape. in which IS was accused of numerous atrocities, the group extremists on camera phones, smuggling encrypted footage cycle. He began researching the conflict extensively and came "We know the global story, now we hear the personal one," declared its caliphate stretching from northern Syria to parts via the internet to Al-Hamza and his fellow exiles, who dis- across RBSS in the fall of 2015, and was struck by the sacrifices said Maduka, who also worked on 2013 Nigerian civil war pic- of eastern Iraq in June 2014. seminate it via social media. that its members had made. He decided early on that he ture "Half of a Yellow Sun." "As the director, my aim was to visu- Last year, they reported to the outside world on a 20-year- wanted the core of the story to be deeply personal "verite" ally and sonically plunge audiences into the psychological 'Amazing footage' old jihadi who had shot his mother in the head with an assault footage, captured as the activists escaped Syria after the and emotional landscape of our subject." — AFP Al-Hamza, 25, first encountered the group when a rifle in front of a crowd, after she was accused of apostasy. assassination of several members by IS fighters. Heineman masked man with a Saudi accent burst into his university Heineman was touring America with his Oscar-nominated followed them in Turkey and then eventually to Germany as and recruited one of his friends, who later turned up dead. 2015 Mexican drug trade documentary "Cartel Land" as the the IS group continued to threaten them.

James Baldwin 'unfiltered' in Oscar-nominated documentary aoul Peck's Oscar-nominated docu- movement as it was exploding in the segre- mentary "I Am Not Your Negro" pres- gated South. Peck could not bear the idea of Rents the raw, "unfiltered" voice of US Baldwin falling into oblivion, that history civil rights stalwart James Baldwin through would inherit his ideas "without quoting him". his own words, the Haitian filmmaker says. "He invented a language of incredible force," Unpublished notes Peck told AFP at his Paris office, calling the The filmmaker combed through Baldwin's novelist, essayist and poet the literary "father novels and correspondence on the way to of everyone" who influenced authors from creating what he called a "confrontation" Beat Generation idol Allen Ginsberg to Nobel between the man and today's world. Black literature laureate Toni Morrison. and white footage from scenes of "The title is obviously a provoca- more recent racial strife such as tion," said Peck, president of La Ferguson, Missouri-which saw a Femis, France's most prestigious wave of protests after the police film school. shooting of an unarmed African- He summed up the thinking of American man-remind viewers of Baldwin, who was black and gay, the subject's continuing relevance. by saying: "You can't park me in the The work, which Peck said is "high- ghettos and lynch me without stakes artistically and politically", becoming monsters." aims to challenge the racism of File photo shows Bruno Mars performs at the 2016 Jingle Ball at Staples Center in Los Baldwin escaped American "(US President Donald) Trump and Angeles. — AP racism and homophobia in 1948, all those like him". taking refuge in Paris for more than a decade But he said Baldwin's discourse is too before returning home to lead a nationwide politically incorrect for American television, Bruno Mars will perform at the campaign against segregation. It was in Paris predicting that his documentary would never that the Harlem-born Baldwin wrote his semi- reach the small screen. Actor Samuel L autobiographical coming-of-age story "Go Jackson, whose breakthrough role was as a Grammy Awards next month Tell It on the Mountain". Three years later he crack addict in Spike Lee's "Jungle Fever" authored the frank, homoerotic "Giovanni's (1991), voices Baldwin in the US version. runo Mars will bring his upbeat, funky Other album of the year nominees include Room", one of the first acclaimed literary French rapper JoeyStarr does the French swag to the Grammys stage. The Drake, Justin Bieber, Sturgill Simpson and works to explore the gay experience. voiceover for the documentary, soon to be In this, file photo, musician Madonna poses for photogra- BRecording Academy announced yester- Beyonce, who is the overall top nominee with Back in the United States, Baldwin became released on the German-French cultural chan- phers upon arrival at the World premiere of the film "The day that the singer-songwriter-producer will nine. Adele, Metallica, Carrie Underwood, friends with African American civil rights icons nel Arte. "They act from within" Baldwin's Beatles, Eight Days a Week" in London. — AFP perform at the Feb 12 show at the Staples John Legend and Keith Urban will also per- Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr. and Medgar black skin, said Peck, who is in his early 60s Center in Los Angeles. Mars, a four-time form at the show, which will air live on CBS. Evers-all three assassinated before they and whose own family fled Haiti under the Grammy winner, is nominated for album of James Corden will host the show. Mars reached their 40th birthday, as Peck notes. In Duvalier dictatorship. —AFP the year as a co-producer on Adele's come- released his third album, "24K Magic," in 1963, Baldwin's deeply personal exploration Madonna in Malawi back effort, "25." He worked on the ballad "All November. — AP of racial injustice in "The Fire Next Time" I Ask." fanned the flames of the American civil rights court to apply to adopt 2 more kids

pop superstar Madonna appeared in person at a court in the Malawian capital Lilongwe yesterday USto apply to adopt two more local children, a court spokesman told AFP. Madonna, who runs a charity called Raising Malawi in the southern African nation, adopted Malawian children David Banda in 2006 and Mercy James in 2009. Local media reports said the singer appeared before Justice Fiona Mwale amid tight security, accompanied by two unidentified children and several other people, before being driven away in an SUV vehicle. "The court is looking at the application now to determine whether Madonna can adopt these two children," said Mlenga Cake-Baly Marcelo of Guinea-Bissau sits in his tram-cab of No 2 line in Budapest. Cake-Baly Marcelo of Guinea-Bissau is pictured in the Paris bookstore in Budapest down- Mvula, spokesman of the Lilongwe High Court. "The... process —AFP photos town. requires the court to make a ruling on the adoption." The 58- year-old singer last visited Malawi in July, taking her two adopted Malawian children with her. She also inspected her charity's work, including progress at a surgical unit for children at the Queen Elizabeth hospital in Immigrant tram driver shoots to fame in Hungarian refugee film the commercial capital Blantyre. It was Madonna's first visit in nearly two years to Malawi, where she has at times been n posters around Budapest right now is the determined 1989 because he did not have citizenship. For years he strug- been drowned in the sea like the other migrants," said Cake- embroiled in controversy after her earlier adoptions. face of an African-born tram driver with a doctorate, the gled to find work, in part due to his skin color, he suspects. "I Baly, who has three children with his Hungarian wife. Ostar of a poignant new Hungarian film about immigra- had so much rejection in the job market I threw away my pride. Adoption controversy tion, integration and xenophobia. "A stranger ran up to me one I couldn't tell you where my economist diploma certificate is, at Critics' praise She was stripped of VIP status by former president Joyce day after I finished my shift and asked if I wanted to be in a the back of a drawer probably," he said ruefully. Vranik said he began working on the film's screenplay in Banda's government in 2013 and accused of being "uncouth" movie about refugees," Marcelo Cake-Baly, a former teenage 2012, well before the refugee crisis erupted and the govern- and wanting eternal gratitude from the impoverished country soldier from Guinea-Bissau, told AFP at a tram stop on the out- 'Go home' ment's anti-migrant "propaganda got going". "It wasn't so hard for adopting the two children. But Banda was ousted in 2014 skirts of Budapest. "I said 'yes' on the spot." That stranger was Since 2005 he has worked as a tram driver and sometimes to predict what might happen... I wouldn't change the movie if I elections and the new president, Peter Mutharika, moved to Hungarian film director Roland Vranik, whose well-received gets abuse, with people shouting at him to "go home"-despite started writing it today," the 48-year-old told AFP. "I was just repair relations, saying "my government has always been "The Citizen" tells the story of an African refugee's quest to having a Hungarian passport and proficiency in the language. curious about the life of a vulnerable African refugee trying to grateful for the passion Madonna has for this country". obtain Hungarian citizenship and premieres on Wednesday. The temptation to pull his passport from his coat pocket is integrate in Hungary," he added. Vranik approached Cake-Baly Last July, Madonna said she would not revive plans for a Filmed just before Europe's migration crisis hit in 2015, the strong, he says, but he always resists. "Most people here are on the street after spotting him in a driver's uniform as "it is not $15 million academy for girls in Malawi, which was cancelled movie highlights the plight of non-European migrants trying to friendly, but there's always one who's not. Still there is no point easy to find a middle-aged African who speaks Hungarian". amid allegations of mismanagement-leading to her tiff with settle in the predominantly white country. Cake-Baly, 58, came in getting into conflicts," Cake-Baly said. Hungary is home to Critics have called the movie "one of the best and important Banda. The singer, who divorced film director Guy Ritchie in to Hungary in 1976 after the army in Guinea-Bissau offered him around 5,000 Africans, a tiny percentage of the foreign-born Hungarian films" made to date, comparing it to the work of 2008, reportedly landed in Malawi by private jet and was stay- the chance to study in neighboring Senegal, where he won a population of 150,000, itself mostly Europeans and 1.5 percent acclaimed British director Mike Leigh. ing at an exclusive lodge outside Lilongwe. Madonna, who scholarship to study in then-communist Hungary. He only of the 10-million-strong country. According to surveys, hostility "It doesn't conform to stereotypes," Adam Kovats, a 22-year- has four children, is reportedly among the biggest individual gained Hungarian citizenship in 1994, however, and says the to non-whites in Hungary has grown during Europe's migration old student, told AFP after an advance screening in Budapest donors to children's projects such as orphanages in Malawi, struggles experienced by the film's lead character, Wilson, mir- crisis, which swept through the country two years ago. last week. "The refugees and Hungarian characters in the movie which is ranked by the UN Human Development Index as one ror his own. Hungarian polling firm, Tarki, said recently that xenophobic come across as real, complex people, not just one-dimensional of the world's 20 least developed countries. Wilson encounters casual racism, grapples with bureaucratic attitudes were at their highest in 25 years. Over 400,000 people angelic refugees and racist Europeans". Looking forward to the On Saturday, she made an unannounced appearance in hurdles and helps a fellow refugee in trouble, all the while try- trekked through Hungary in 2015 to reach richer countries fur- premiere, Cake-Baly, who still hasn't seen the completed film, Washington at a rally protesting against US President Donald ing to hold down a security guard job and get by in the Magyar ther west and north. In response, the hardline anti-immigration told AFP he hopes to do more acting. "I've got a taste for it Trump a day after his inauguration. Madonna had cam- language, one of Europe's trickiest tongues. In the opening Prime Minister Viktor Orban built border fences and put up bill- now," he smiled. — AFP paigned for Hillary Clinton to become America's first woman scene, he is told by an official to "come back in a year" after fail- boards warning foreigners not to take jobs from Hungarians. president, and told Billboard Magazine after the Democrat's ing yet another citizenship exam, which included a grilling on These days, "migrant" is used as a term of abuse that Cake- loss that women had a "tribal inability" to accept a female the Hungarian constitution and medieval history. Cake-Baly, Baly hears more and more. "Someone at a bus stop blew smoke president. — AFP who holds a doctorate in economics, lost his job in a bank in in my face recently, and said it would have been better if I'd lifestyle THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

FASHION

Lily-Rose Depp emerges as star of Deco-inspired Chanel show

inger-model Vanessa Paradis was the image of the dot- Vanessa Paradis' Family Affair ing mother at Chanel's Art Deco-inspired spring-summer Lily-Rose Depp made her runway debut at Chanel's Metiers Scollection, looking on proudly as daughter Lily-Rose d'Art show at the Ritz in December, but now the 17-year-old is Depp emerged as the star of the show. Here are the highlights a seasoned fashion professional. Fashionistas gasped as from the second day of Paris couture week: Vanessa Paradis' daughter with actor Johnny Depp took to the couture runway in a frothy pink tulle bridal gown to cap the Chanel's mirrored show heritage house's spring season. Former Chanel model and At Chanel, the sparkling, reflective decor recalled the mir- mom Paradis looked on proudly, passing the baton to the rors of the grand staircase that lead up to the house's famed child who suddenly has seem to come of age. couture salons on Paris' rue Cambon. Mirrored tiles were engraved with the signature quilted motif. But it was more than just decoration. The set in the Grand Palais presentation also set the theme - turning the time dial chicly to the geo- metric Art Deco designs of the 1930s. The house characterized the styles as "crazy femininity" on models with slicked-back hair and flattened "boater" hats. But Tuesday's show was more of a low-key couture affair than crazy and channeled a pared- down, pastel palette. There were sumptuous white silk A-line dresses that shimmered against the kaleidoscopic backdrop, and fun moments of effervescence in some froufrou dresses. At times, the silhouettes seemed incongruous, while the designs of maestro Karl Lagerfeld, now 83 years old, seemed to lack some of the exuberance of previous seasons. THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 lifestyle

FASHION

Alexis Mabille color-blocks the princess Armani goes Asian, 70s It was a sublime collection for French designer Alexis It was all about peaked shoulders and 1970s glamour Mabille, who color-blocked the fairytale princess. Vivacious for fashion icon Giorgio Armani's Prive couture show. Asian tulle-rich couture gowns rendered in vivid expanses of styles and loose, silken silhouettes influenced the collec- peacock blue, purple, cyclamen, flame red and teal green tion that warmed frozen guests with its bright color wowed the guests. Crowns gave way to bridal and princess palette. Saturated oranges and golden reds evoked the sun veils midway through the 24-piece display, but the con- of the Far East. Shimmering sheer silks, plumed boas and temporary colors ensured that none of the designs strayed fastidious embroideries made this an intricate and arche- into the saccharine. There were plenty of great fashion typally couture display. It's a shame that with such mus- ideas. One of the fairytale-esque looks in black tulle looked ings, only one Asian model was selected for the catwalk like the design was channeling a dark, unraveled royal - the show. — AP couture equivalent of Lucifer.

Models present creations by Elie Saab during the 2017 spring/summer Haute Couture collection yesterday in Paris. — AFP photos

Lebanese designer acknowledges the audience at the end Fashion designer Alexis Mabille (center) acknowledges the audience at the end of the German fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld (right) acknowledges the audience next to of the 2017 spring/summer Haute Couture collection in 2017 spring/summer Haute Couture collection in Paris. French and US actress and model Lily-Rose Melody Depp at the end of the Chanel during Paris. the 2017 spring/summer Haute Couture collection in Paris. lifestyle THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

FASHION

UK workplace study finds women forced to wear heels

British parliamentary study into workplace dress codes has found that women have been Atold to wear high heels, dye their hair or wear revealing outfits at the office. The inquiry followed the case of a London receptionist who was asked to go home after protesting that she was forced to wear 2-inch to-4 inch (5-centimeter to 10-centimeter) heels to the office while her male colleagues weren't. The Petitions Committee and Women and Equalities Committee said yesterday that it became clear during the course of the inquiry that this wasn't an isolated incident. The committee says that it heard from hundreds of women "who told us about the pain and long-term damage caused by wearing high heels for long periods." The committee noted that dis- criminatory dress codes remain widespread. — AP Models present creations for Chanel during the 2017 spring/summer Haute Couture collection.

Models present creations by Alexis Mabille. lifestyle THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017

FASHION Longtime British Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman to step down

he top editor at British Vogue plans to step down Shulman has been an influential figure on the British June Vogue marked 100 years of publication with a special after a quarter century at the helm of the trendset- fashion scene for many years and has helped nurture issue featuring the Duchess of Cambridge on its cover. In Tting fashion magazine. Vogue said yesterday that young British writers and designers. She said the decision the past Shulman has criticized designers for using Alexandra Shulman will leave the position this summer. No to leave was difficult and that she will miss the daily con- extremely thin models. — AP In this file photo, Alexandra Schulman poses for photogra- replacement has been named. tact with the people at Vogue House in central London. In phers upon her arrival at the Design Museum opening party in London. — AP

Models present creations for Giorgio Armani Prive. Lily-Rose Depp emerges as star of Deco-inspired Chanel show

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 37

Municipal workers plant flowers around the model of a rooster made of plants in a public park in downtown Hanoi yesterday. Known locally as Tet, the celebration of the Lunar New Year is Vietnam’s most important holiday. — AFP Berlin now 'home sweet home' for Syrian pastry chefs

Employees and a customer are seen in the ‘Konditorei Damaskus’ pastry shop in the Neukoeln neighborhood of 'Only music, language and pastry can transport you to these pleasant memories, it's universal' Berlin.

Syrian family of pastry chefs, the Sakkas, once delight- this dessert, the Germans won't like it, it's too heavy for a pas- ed the people of Homs with their sugar-soaked try," said Tamem. But he was proved wrong and now says ALevantine delicacies, until a rain of bombs turned them Berliners can't get enough of his sugar treats. into refugees. Now, after a four-year odyssey, they have reopened the family's sweet-tooth haven in Berlin, a baklava 'Music, language, pastry' shop called the "Damaskus Konditorei". In a bittersweet tale of During a recent visit, most customers were Syrians eager war, loss, exile and rebuilding, the family was granted asylum for a taste of home, a cheese pastry called knafeh soaked in in Germany and, against the odds, opened their new patis- sticky syrup. Some who have lost everything say they feel tak- serie last summer. "Even though it's very difficult to find a job en back to peacetime Syria, the memory of afternoons in the in Germany, we said, 'let's go and try!'" said Tamem, 42, the shade of bougainvillea. "Only music, language and pastry can youngest of three brothers. transport you to these pleasant memories, it's universal," Four years have passed since the Sakkas fled Homs, Syria's smiled Sabet. Many German customers, who gingerly peek Tamem Al-Sakka is seen working in his pastry shop, third biggest city, which became a rebel bastion early in the into the shop, go on to take their first steps on a new culinary ‘Konditorei Damaskus’ in the Neukoeln neighbourhood of war that started in 2011. Suffocated by a long army siege, the journey of discovery. "When they come in here, they watch, Berlin. city saw fierce fighting that pushed many of its residents to Tamem Al-Sakka is seen working in his pastry shop, sometimes they seem afraid!", laughed Tamem. leave everything behind and run. The family of 16 -- the three ‘Konditorei Damaskus’ in the Neukoeln neighborhood "What they like is the baklava", he added, pointing to brothers, Salim, Rami and Tamem Al-Sakka, with their parents, of Berlin. Syria's signature pastry made of layers of filo, stuffed with wives and children-first fled to Lebanon, then Egypt. They chopped nuts and held together with honey. The artisan's made it to Berlin over two years ago with hopes for a better Before Syria's deluge of fire and death, the country was eyes grow misty when he thinks about Syrian pistachios-"the life, like more than 600,000 fellow Syrians who have gained known throughout the Middle East for the refinement of its best in the world"-which he can no longer grate to produce safe haven in Germany. sweets. "This is due to the quality of raw materials, such as his delicacies. The Sakkas now get their nuts from Turkey, Aleppo pistachios," explains French-Syrian pastry maker and their cheese from Italy. "In Homs, our shop employed 40 Master artisans Myriam Sabet, who runs the Maison Aleph patisserie in Paris. people, the pastry was laid out on 150 square meters (1,614 In their flight, all they could carry was the know-how "And to the ancestral know-how of the master artisans who square feet) on two floors, and on top of that we had a big passed down by their father, Suleiman, 83, who founded the jealously guard their manufacturing secrets." In Syria, different workshop", Tamem recalled with nostalgia. The more modest Homs pastry shop more than 40 years ago. The sweet fruits of cities-whose names now evoke the horrors of war and suffer- Damaskus Konditorei is located on a Berlin avenue nick- their labor are on mouth-watering display on large metal ing-have long been associated with their regional specialties. named the capital's "Arab street"-a long way from the 13th trays-pyramids of small green nut cakes, covered with shred- While the capital Damascus loves barazek honey pistachio century souks of Homs, filled with the scent of spices, per- ded pistachio and moistened with rose water. The aromas of and sesame cookies, the commercial center of Aleppo was fumes and pastries. For now, home is just a sweet memory orange blossom and almond waft through the room, the eye known to have a weakness for nougats and almond. The jew- for the Sakkas. — AFP The Konditorei Damaskus pastry shop is seen in the lingers on shredded pastry bird nests called esh Al-bulbul, and els of central Homs and Hama are sweet cheese rolls known as Neukoeln neighbourhood of Berlin. maamoul shortbread filled with dates, pistachios or walnuts. halawet El-jibn. "At first my brother said to me, 'Let's not make

Tamem Al-Sakka is seen working in his pastry shop, "Konditorei Damaskus" in An employee drizzles honey onto a Knaffa in the ‘Konditorei Damaskus’ pastry An employee is seen working in the ‘Konditorei Damaskus’ pastry shop in the the Neukoeln neighbourhood of Berlin. — AFP photos shop in the Neukoeln neighborhood of Berlin. Neukoeln neighbourhood of Berlin.