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THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 RAMADAN 9, 1434 AH www.kuwaittimes.net Kuwait-Iraq Contaminated Qaeda No 2 relations school meal kills killed in US Emsak: 03:16 strengthen 25 India children drone strike Fajer: 03:28 Dohr: 11:54 Asr: 15:29 Maghreb: 18:48 3 7 15 Eshaa: 20:17 Kuwait woman jailed Max 49º Min 35º for anti-Amir tweets High Tide 06:10 & 20:12 Latest in growing list of tweeters jailed for ‘insult’ Low Tide 00:05 & 13:42 40 PAGES NO: 15873 150 FILS By B Izzak conspiracy theories KUWAIT: The Appeals Court yesterday upheld a 20- month jail term against female opposition activist Sara Nobody is Al-Darees on charges of writing tweets deemed offen- sive to the Amir. The Criminal Court last month issued the sentence against Darees on charges of insulting the above the law Amir’s status and for misusing her mobile phone but she was asked to pay a bail of KD 200 to suspend the implementation of the jail term until the case has been reviewed by the Appeals Court. Under Kuwaiti law, the sentence must be carried out immediately after the Appeals Court confirmed it By Badrya Darwish although the convict can still challenge the sentence to the Court of Cassation whose rulings are final. Defense lawyer Humoud Al-Hajeri however said that they will challenge the sentence at the Court of Cassation imme- diately and will request the court to suspend the imple- [email protected] mentation of the sentence until it had issued its verdict. If the request is accepted by the court, then Darees can remain outside the jail until the Cassation Court his is the way it should be. This is the norm issues its ruling which may acquit the convict. Darees of applying the rules and regulations all becomes the second Kuwaiti female tweeter to be jailed Tover the world. Nobody is above the law. after the criminal court last month sentenced Huda Al- Well done Dubai police! I am sure by now all of Ajmi to 11 years in jail, the harshest jail term against an you have read or have seen on social network online crime so far in Kuwait, also for insulting the Amir. sites the assault of an Emirati customs official Ajmi was convicted on three counts of insulting the who attacked an Asian for cutting off the road in Amir and calling to overthrow the regime through front of him. The Dubai police took immediate remarks on Twitter and misusing her mobile phone. At action against the assaulter regardless of his citi- least three youth opposition activists are serving vari- zenship or high-ranking post, especially in a case ous jail terms in prison on charges of writing tweets in which the victim was an Asian driver. NEW DELHI: An Indian Muslim child and her relatives read verses of Quran at the Jama Masjid in New Delhi deemed offensive to the Amir. With all due respect, I don’t think this would yesterday. — AFP Continued on Page 15 have taken place in any other Gulf country. The news also said that the official was suspended from his post till the investigation finishes. This is Kuwait posts KD21 billion budget what I call a real democracy. If you do not want to call it democracy at least it shows how justice KUWAIT: OPEC member Kuwait said yesterday it has has ended up with a healthy surplus, accumulating of the fiscal year because its actual oil output is 3.0 mil- takes place. It is the justice abiding by our Islamic issued the 2013/2014 budget, with spending projected close to $300 billion. lion bpd and oil prices are expected to remain above rules and traditions. at KD21.0 billion, slightly short of last year’s record For the year to March 2014, revenues are projected $100 a barrel for most of the year. People in every country abuse the system and expenditure of KD21.2 billion. The budget, issued by at KD 18.1 billion, 30 percent higher than last fiscal Due to higher than expected income driven by firm fail to abide by the laws. But if governments take the Amir in a decree because parliament is dissolved, year’s projected income. The 2013/2014 budget calcu- oil prices, Kuwait decided for the second year in a row action without discriminating people, then every- projects a deficit of KD2.9 billion much smaller than last lated revenues on the basis of a daily oil output of 2.7 to transfer 25 percent of revenues into the emirate’s one learns their lesson and think twice before year’s estimated shortfall of $26 billion, the finance million barrels and a price of oil of $70 a barrel. Last sovereign wealth fund whose assets are currently esti- assaulting or abusing people of other nationali- ministry said. year’s budget had taken into account a daily oil produc- mated at over $400 billion. Despite abundant cash- ties. If there is no check and balances then peo- Kuwait’s fiscal year runs between April 1 and March tion of 2.2 million bpd and the crude price at $65 a bar- flow, development has been stalled in Kuwait due to a ple feel free to assault and abuse others. The 31. Kuwait has so far not released fiscal details of year to rel. chronic political crisis that has seen parliament dis- same happens if there is no punishment. March 2013, but provisional figures show a huge sur- Oil revenues are estimated at KD16.9 billion or 93.3 solved on six occasions and the cabinet resign about a If a person knows that after they hit someone plus of around $38 billion. Kuwait, which says it sits on percent of total income, said the finance ministry, cited dozen times since mid-2006. Kuwait has a native pop- they can get away with that, and if they know 10 percent of global crude reserves, has projected a by the official KUNA news agency. Kuwait’s public and ulation of 1.22 million in addition to 2.7 million for- that even if the case reaches the police station, budget deficit every year for the past 14 fiscal years but oil revenues are expected to almost double at the end eigners. — AFP which is unlikely because many expats are afraid to go against citizens - a decision that stems from their lack of confidence in the officials and the UAE official arrested for A response to system - nothing will be done against the perpe- trator, then we will apply the laws of the jungle. an open letter No government should encourage its citizens to attacking Asian driver run down people from other nations or abuse By British Ambassador Frank Baker them because what goes around comes around. DUBAI: An Emirati government official, who beat an Have a nice Ramadan! Indian driver with his eqal (male headband) following a saw this week in a local newspaper an open letter dispute for right of way on the road has been detained that was addressed to me on the subject of visas. pending further investigations. Video footage showing IThis is a topic I frequently discuss, particularly at this a man in dishdasha assaulting an Asian driver went viral time of year as I make my way round the Ramadan Ramadan Kareem on social media sites after a passer-by filmed the inci- Diwaniya to catch up with friends, make new ones dent and uploaded it on YouTube. Yesterday, a case was and enjoy the convivial atmosphere. registered against the official. Kuwaitis traveling on visit visas for the UK benefit Different kinds Following the incident, the official was relieved of his from a unique shortened application form and simpli- duties. The prosecutor has summoned the victim for his fied documentary requirements that other nationali- of good deeds statement of the incident. If charged, the Emirati nation- ties do not - recognition of the close and historical ties al is expected to be prosecuted by the Dubai between our two countries. By Hassan Bwambale An Emirati official seen attacking an Asian driver Misdemeanor Court. Our processing times also reflect the high value we llah has hitherto been graceful, kind, merciful place on Kuwaiti visa appli- and generous to us in that if we perform only Filipinos call for ban cants; Visas are usually Aone good deed, He gives us 10 rewards - up to processed in no longer than 700 - depending on the purity of our intentions, pur- 5 working days, when our poses, and the efficacy of our performance. Prophet on maids to Mideast global target is actually 15 Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Faith (Iman) is divided into working days. seventy and a few branches; the highest of them is to We also offer a priority Frank Baker say, ‘There is no one worthy to be worshiped except Rape, abuse cases on the rise service to those applicants who would like to take Allah,’ and the lowest is picking up something (harm- advantage of an even quicker service. Inevitably one ful) from the road. And bashfulness is among the By Ben Garcia Therefore, the only solution, and perhaps a strong does hear negative stories, most of which are a combi- divisions of ‘Iman,’ or faith.” (Muslim 58/35) message, would be to stop sending our labor forces nation of half-truth and rumor. Therefore I thought Dumping anything in the road, whether it harms KUWAIT: Amidst increasing rape cases and abuses here if they are not willing to help and protect us and this would be a good opportunity to give some of the people or not is not allowed in Islam. It is among against Filipinos in Kuwait, several Filipino organiza- are not ready to give us respect,’ said Ann Abunda, facts. The reality is that the demand for visas to the UK those vices that Islam discourages. Allah says what tions here called for an immediate suspension and a Oragon President, convener of the signature campaign this year is unprecedented, but that even under that can be translated as, “And those who annoy believing ban on sending household service workers to Kuwait for an immediate moratorium. pressure we are running with business as usual and men and women undeservedly, bear (on themselves) and the rest of the region. An online petition is now One online petition (An Open Letter) that was processing applications well ahead of our targets. a calumny, and a glaring sin.” (33: 58) The men and being circulated among Filipinos here along with a sig- addressed to Philippine President Benigno Aquino III, Many of you will have seen the Youtube clip of women of faith do all they can to please Allah and nature campaign to press the Philippine government the Philippine Congress, Department of Foreign Affairs large queues outside the UK Visa Application Centre. serve humanity. If you are driving and you throw to ban the deployment of Filipino housemaids to the and the Department of Labor and Employment, said This has been misrepresented - the queues were seen something out of the window, it may hurt someone country. they strongly appeal to the government of the before it opened. Record numbers are applying for or an animal. ‘Our dignity is trampled because we’ve been raped Philippines to immediately suspend the deployment of visas, but even if some have to wait, all those who do Even if it doesn’t hurt anyone, you should know and abused repeatedly without resolution in these cas- housemaids to the Middle East. come to the Application Centre are now being seen. It that by such an act, you are contributing towards es. Many of the perpetrators are still at large and some In the letter, Filipino community leaders in Bahrain, is not true to say that we’re making people wait out- polluting the environment. Good intention turns of them were able to pay a little amount to evade jail. United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Jordan and side in the sun. small deeds into big ones: There are some small Now is the time - we have to a send strong message to Saudi Arabia joined hands to campaign against deploy- There’s not much the Application Centre can do deeds in our limited perception that if we do them everyone that we are not slaves or sex objects of any- ing Filipinos. about queues that form before their doors open, and Continued on Page 15 body. We are human beings just like anyone else. Continued on Page 15 Continued on Page 15 THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 LOCAL ‘Budget law’ helps save projects, commitments Inability of NA to convene

By Abdellatif Sharaa 2013/2014 have adversely affected the imple- is KD 4.524 billion. mentation of general budgets including for Expenses were estimated according to the KUWAIT: Finance Ministry Undersecretary development. actual needs of ministries and government bod- Khaleefa Musaed Hamad held a press confer- The delay will cause inability to pay for gov- ies as follows: Salaries KD 5.194 billion; com- ence at the Information Ministry Tuesday ernment projects that are included in the devel- modities and services KD 3.378 billion; transport, evening in the presence of Director of Budgets opment plan for 2013/2014. The delay also equipment and supplies KD 351.3 million; con- and Defence Services Department Abdulghaffar makes it not possible to pay government struction projects, maintenance and public Al-Awadhi and Assistant Undersecretary for departments that were established during this acquisitions KD 2.221 billion; and various Budgets Affairs Saleh Al-Saraawi. Hamad said it year, because they were not included in the pre- expenses and transfer payments KD 9.361 bil- was necessary to issue a budget law by decree vious year 2012/2013. He said such departments lion. Total expenses come to KD 21.2 billion. because there are projects and commitments include the corruption public authority, and the Hamad said the expenses were distributed as that cannot be processed until the law is issued. ministry of youth. Hamad said that money can- follows: General services led by electricity and “Some projects work on a time plan, so it is very not be spent on ongoing projects without this water took first place at 18.9 percent of the important to approve the budget at this time, approval, “which hampers progress and activi- budget expenses. Social assistance (takaful) 18.4 which is already delayed, because the start of ties and cost fines for delays”. percent; education services at 14.2 percent; the budget is supposed to be April 1 and we He said non-issuance of the budget law will defence, security and justice 14.1 percent and cannot delay the budget any further,” he said. negatively affect its implementation because other services at 34.4 percent. “It is true the National Assembly may hold a purchase orders require time and effort to pre- Before deducting the next generations session soon, but this does not mean it will pare tender documents then process them, and allowance, the budget deficit is KD 2.906 billion, approve the budget during this session and the these steps require take a long time, and will not and after deduction, it rises to KD 7.430 billion. process usually takes a very long time,” he be processed until after the budget is issued. He Estimated salaries in the 2013/2014 budget added. said, due to these reasons, the Cabinet approved amount to KD 10.414 billion - 49.6 percent of Hamad said that the Finance Ministry took the budgets for the 2013/2014 fiscal year. budget expenses. Subsidies and assistance are into consideration all the recommendations and The revenues in the budget are estimated as estimated at KD 4.917 billion, 23.4 percent of comments made by the budgets and closing follows: Oil revenues were approved as the main total expenses. Current expenses and invest- accounts committee in the Assembly in this revenue source for the budget at $70 per barrel ment the current expenses in the fiscal year regard. Following the approval, there are some and production of 2.7 million barrels per day. 2013/2014 are KD 17.801 billion at 34.8 percent procedures that take time and it was necessary Based on this, oil revenues are estimated at KD of the total expenses while investment pay- to issue the budget in this fashion, he explained. 16.83 billion - 93.3 percent of total revenues - ments amount to KD 3.201 billion, 15.2 percent Hamad began the press conference with a while non-oil revenues were estimated at KD of the total expenses. statement in which he said that the inability of 1.21 billion - 6.7 percent of total revenues. Future When asked about the reported reductions in the National Assembly to convene and discuss generations reserve allowance was increased the Ministry of Electricity budget, Saraawi told the budget due to a constitutional court ruling from 10 percent to 25 percent according to law Kuwait Times the ministry has put some projects that dissolved it and the elapsing of three 106/1976. The total allowance taken from gener- on hold, but the Finance Ministry has not reject- months since the start of the fiscal year al revenues for this fund for the year 2013/2014 ed any project the ministry has asked for. Kuwait, Iraq urged to enter new phase of relations

UNITED NATIONS: The outgoing UN briefing to the Security Council on the work issues of the Kuwaiti missing and property to Special Representative for Iraq, Martin of the UN Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI) UNAMI, under Chapter VI of the UN Charter. Kobler, late Tuesday said he was “satisfied” which he heads. On Iran’s influence in Iraq, Kobler said that the files between Iraq and Kuwait are “I think the time is mature now, after the UNAMI has an office in Tehran, as Iran is an “almost settled,” and stressed the need for Chapter VII issues are practically solved,” he “important” neighbouring country and a the two countries to enter a new phase of added. “very important factor” to Iraq. people to people relationship. He also expressed satisfaction that “we He said “all the problems in the region are “I am very satisfied that the Iraq-Kuwait had a lot of progress in the last months and interrelated. We cannot separate Syria from files are almost settled. What is important most of the resolutions are implemented. Iraq or Iran. Therefore the international com- now is to enter into a new phase of people There is only the resolution on compensa- munity should have a more holistic KUWAIT: The Kuwait Dive Team removed 800 tons of tetrapods from the to people, not only to have politicians tion, once the remaining $11 billion in com- approach to the whole region.” seafloor, 5 meters deep off the Fintas Coast. Heavy duty equipment were exchange, but also members of Parliament, pensations are paid.” Kobler will leave his post in Iraq later this used during the eight-day operation to lift each of the structures that weigh youth groups, football clubs, and women The Security Council voted unanimously week and move to the Democratic Republic 3 tons individually and are used in breakwaters. organisations,” Kobler said following his last month to transfer the humanitarian of Congo for his new post. —KUNA Strong fines on sellers of expired Girgian goods

KUWAIT: As the state readies for the sell bad goods, they would face fines cooperate with the municipality and customary annual Girgian season, a of KD 500 - 1,000, in addition to clo- report any establishment that traditional Kuwaiti occasion falling in sure of the establishment or revoking attempts to sell or sells them such the middle of the holy month of of license. goods, so that appropriate measure Ramadan, the inspectors of Kuwait Trading in items gone bad, items could be taken and wrongdoers be Municipality are to maintain strict containing harmful additives or col- held accountable. measures and impose heavy fines on orants, and items falling short of inter- The municipality works round-the- those selling expired goods or any national standards for safe human clock to safeguard public safety in all food items that are unsuitable for consumption in any way would mean governorates, and samples are rou- human consumption. legal consequences, he said, and all tinely sent for lab testing should any Head of Kuwait Municipality quantities of such items would be suspicion arise of a threat to con- Ahmad Al-Subeeh said yesterday, destroyed upon detection. sumers’ health. teams are on constant inspection Al-Subeeh meanwhile urged the The official also denied rumors stops in all areas and should an indi- consumers to stay vigilant on their that bad items detected by munici- vidual retailer or establishment aim to part and read expiry dates before pur- pality teams could still be sold to the use this social custom and occasion to chasing any sweets or candy and to public. —KUNA Kuwait keen on future of youth KUWAIT: The Kuwaiti government is keen on the future of the country; thus, the state devised a comprehensive strategy to devel- op youth and provide them with the tools to achieve their goals, said an official for the Ministry of Youth Affairs here yesterday. Speaking to a symposium on youth guid- ance and the future, Sheikha Al-Zain Al- Sabah said that the ministry in cooperation with other governmental institutes and pri- vate organizations would work on support- ing human resources’ development and youth. The estimated 621,000 youth citizens under the age of 29 are the future of Kuwait, therefore it is important to provide all sorts of tools to enable them to build NBK shares happy moments their country, said the official. She indicated that the government with children from would focus on devising a solid strategy that would support youth and enable Kuwait Orphanage them to reach their career goals in the future. KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait rience, fostering the development of On her part, head of Administrative (NBK) organized a special event for life skills - but from a kid perspective it’s Development at Kuwait University Suad Al- children from Kuwait’s Orphanage at all about fun. Zaid said that Kuwait was in need of devel- KidZania-Kuwait. NBK family accompa- The children enjoyed their visit that oping human resources within the youth nied the children who enjoyed all introduced them to NBK’s Branch with- category, noting that the symposium, held types of activities and entertainment at in KidZania Kuwait. NBK Branch aims to under the patronage of His Highness the KidZania. empower kids to manage their own Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al- The children’s visit to KidZania world and explore, through role play- Hamad Al-Sabah, was an indication that stands as one of many NBK social initia- ing, careers such as banking. It also the government was keen on the future of tives. NBK has always devoted a con- provides them a unique experience to the country. siderable time to comfort children and basic banking services so they can She also noted that the symposium present them with felicitations and deposit and withdraw ‘KidZos’, the would increase dialogue amongst youth gifts as part of its corporate social national currency which kids can earn, and help organize and spread ideas this responsibility program. spend, save and invest through the important sector of the society. KidZania operates just like a real city NBK branch and ATMs. Later today, the finale of the event will complete with buildings, paved streets, NBK is the first to partner with witness the participation of Minister of vehicles, a functioning economy, and KidZania Kuwait located in the Communications and Minister of State for recognizable destinations in the form Avenues Mall. As the leading bank in Housing Affairs Salem Al-Utheina, Director of ‘establishments’ sponsored and Kuwait, NBK provides all bank activities General of the Public Authority for branded by leading multi-national and in the kid-centric city to teach children Housing Welfare Subhi Al-Mulla, and other local brands such as NBK. The facilities real life aspects of banking and finan- figures. —- KUNA are designed to educate through expe- cial responsibility. THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 LOCAL Kuwait-Iraq relations strengthen: Al-Hakim

By Nawara Fattahova

KUWAIT: Kuwait Journalist Association (KJA) held a press conference and media meeting with the President of the High Islamic Council in Iraq Ammar Al-Hakeem on Tuesday on the occasion of his visit to Kuwait. Al-Hakim spoke about his meeting with HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Sabah.”Visiting Kuwait during the holy month of Ramadan was a habit of Baker Al-Hakeem, then Abdulaziz, and I’m following this habit annually. The relationship between Kuwait and Iraq is historical and has strong roots. Officials from both countries are exchanging visits to both countries and we appreciate HH the Amir for attending the Arab Summit held in Zain presents cash, phones Bagdad. Also, there are regular visits of political and social personalities from both countries to achieve to outstanding students stronger relations,” he told reporters. According to him, after Iraq’s exit from Chapter 7 of KUWAIT: Zain, the leading telecommunica- “We acknowledge the importance of this spe- UN resolutions, bilateral relations have improved. “This tions company in Kuwait, paid home visits to cial day for these students. Their success of improvement is not only political but also in the public the outstanding high school students who graduating from high school and all their and media. We are happy to reach this level and we have scored the highest grades among all hard work throughout the year is something hope to improve it more, especially in the cultural, KUWAIT: The President of the High Islamic Council in Iraq Ammar Al-Hakeem (left) high school students in Kuwait to congratu- we should all be proud of. Zain is consistent economic and social fields. For instance we hope to and Treasurer of Kuwait Journalist Association (KJA) Adnan Al-Rashid are pictured late them for their academic achievements. with its continuous support and encourage- increase educational exchanges through more coop- during the press conference held in the Kuwait Journalist Association on Tuesday The company handed them cash prizes and ment of young people who are newly gradu- eration between universities, as both countries have evening. —Photos by Joseph Shagra complimentary smartphones to portray the ated from high school, as they enter the next the same messages against terror,” stressed Al-Hakim. company’s utmost pride in them, sharing the educational phase of their life. “ “This bilateral relation should transfer from relation happiness of their success with their families. Zain is fully committed to supporting between two countries to a relation between two Every year, Zain strives to play a leading young people in their development through nations for more cooperation. We hope to see more role in recognizing students who excel in a wide variety of community activities and economic freedom and improvement in future ties. their educational activities. This year, the events, including graduation ceremonies, Furthermore, a new law was issue in Iraq that gives company was determined to meet these out- awards programs and educational and career individual provinces in Iraq the right to develop their standing students to urge them to further development initiatives. The company relations directly,” he added. progress and to be ready to step on their first strongly abides by its solid Corporate Social Al-Hakim met HH the Amir, HH the Crown Prince stepping stone to enter the business world. Responsibility strategy that aims at helping and other officials. “We discussed bilateral relations Zain’s external relations and communications all the sectors of the society to grow and and exchanged opinions regarding the situation in team visited these top performing students prosper. Al Khashti additionally highlighted Iraq and the latest regional events. We noticed that the from public and private high schools in both that Zain will spare no efforts in reaching out Amir is interested in this issue and is aware of the situ- literary and scientific divisions. to the rest of the community to share their ation there,” he pointed out. Regarding the political sit- Waleed Al-Khashti Zain’s Corporate happiness and success or lend a helping hand uation and atmosphere in Iraq, there he said the situa- Communications and Relations Manager said: to the people in need. tion is calm between the political leaders. “Understanding through meetings is prevailing in Iraq. Currently we are preparing for legislative elections that will be held next year. We hope to get good results. We also have new political map that was pro- (From left) Editor-in-Chief of Al-Anba Yousef Khaled Al-Marzouq, Al-Hakeem and Al-Rashid duced by the Iraqi government,” noted Al-Hakim. seen during the press conference. On the Syrian issue, he stated that Iraq is neutral. “We hope that Syria gets stable. We are neutral, but some Iraqis had to act towards incidents of desecrat- ing graves that provoked many people to protect holy places and monuments. But the Iraqi government is not supporting any party in Syria,” he explained. Al- Hakeem thinks that the problem of security and ter- rorism in Iraq should be seen from the economic angle. “If unemployed young men get opportunity to work, they will help in building the country and partic- ipate in the development process. They won’t have time to think of wearing explosive vests to kill inno- cent people. Such terrorist acts are a danger to the whole region and not only Iraq,” concluded Al-Hakim.

CBK holds 10th handicrafts expo

KUWAIT: The Commercial Bank of Kuwait inaugurates its 10th annual CBK Amateurs Exhibition under the patronage of Public Relations and Media Department Manager, Sheikha Nouf Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah. The inau- guration takes place this evening at 9:30 pm at the HH Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah Dar in Qortuba. On that regard, Assistant Manager of the Public Relations and Media Department Amani Al-Waraa indi- cated in a statement that the CBK celebrates the tenth anniversary of the exhibition “which offers the opportu- nity for CBK employees to gather in a work-free atmos- phere where they can express their artistic skills.” She indicated that the event is set to feature a number of handicrafts that CBK employees made, including appar- el and cultural designs in addition to different acces- sories. The exhibition is open for guests on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8:30 pm to 12:30 pm. Sheikha Nouf Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah Electoral programs compete with Ramadan soap operas

KUWAIT: Candidates for the coming parliamentary programs bearing in mind that they can watch the elections appear in talk shows everyday on television soap series after the fasting month. Sociology profes- channels these days, competing with special sor Dr Yaacoub Al-Kanderi said most people during Ramadan programs and drama series. Experts and Ramadan watch television for entertainment and the academics, interviewed by KUNA, affirm that elec- channels compete to attract the largest number pos- tion-related programs and news have dominated sible of spectators. A nominee’s success in reaching broadcasts during the fasting month, praising the audience largely depends on his (her) education themes and quality of these programs that address and knowledge of the psyche of the watchers. causes of both ordinary citizens and nominees. Television interviews constitute a good opportu- Dr Munawer Al-Rajehi, a media professor at nity for the new nominees to present their profile Kuwait University, said the electoral television pro- and their manifestos to a wide segment of the socie- grams “constitute an effective art of the media and ty. Dr Ayed Al-Mannaa, a political sciences professor advertisement and a means for promoting the nomi- at Kuwait University, said luring a large segment of nees. “The television programs and talk shows con- spectators to a TV electoral program largely depends stitute some of the advertising techniques that are on credibility of the themes presented and impor- very effective in luring the voters and affecting their tance of the subjects debated, in addition to the convictions and winning their ballots.” technique of running the show and ways of forward- Dr Al-Rajehi cautioned that broadcast of a large ing the questions. number of soap and drama series during Ramadan He cautioned that a nominee using the TV must may distract the watcher from electoral issues. Some refrain from excessive elaboration to avoid redun- voters, preoccupied with Ramadan social and family dancy. On hosting two contending candidates, he duties, choose to follow up on issues of their poten- said “this is a double-edge weapon, where the tial nominees through the television, he said, affirm- watcher can easily compare the two and pin point ing that nominees who have strong convincing tech- the points of weakness in each of them.” Dr Hamed niques are able to lure a large number of prospected Al-Abdullah, a political sciences professor, said soap voters. series are broadcast during Ramadan because most Official and private satellite channels serve both people prefer to stay indoor. He advised nominees the candidates and voters and constitute the linkage using the TV to be prepared for such presentation between the two sides, Dr Al-Rajehi said, indicating and be able to address various issues of public con- that some people focus on watching the electoral cern. -— KUNA ‘No increase on services’ KUWAIT: High ranking ministerial sources said the ernment is thinking about issuing urgent decrees to Council of Ministers will not issue an urgent decree to increase the fees on some services - and this they said is increase services fees rendered to citizens and expats. totally untrue. “The government does not study anything The sources insisted that it is impossible for the govern- like this at all,” the sources said adding that there will be ment to think about increasing the fees with an urgent no fees increase on water, electricity, traffic violations and decree. They said that it has been reported that the gov- communications. LOCAL

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 Argana holds a girgian for Bait Abdullah at Movenpick Hotel & Resort Al-Bida’a

Sponsors by Quaker Whole grain crispy chicken strips

KUWAIT: Argana Resorts and Hotels Company reputation for serving the society with active organized a girgian event for Bait Abdullah at involvement in many local and international Movenpick Al-Bida’a on Monday. charities as part of its Corporate Social “We preferred to celebrate our girgian this Responsibility and in line with Movenpick Hotels year with the participation of our children from and Resorts’ vision and values. “We are very Bait Abdullah, to share with them these holy proud to sponsor such a great event and be able INGREDIENTS: moments and impart these special lovely to show our support to the local community and 1/3 cup whole wheat flour moments with joy and happiness,” said Faten people in need,” said Maged Gubr, the hotel’s Salt and ground black pepper Zebib the event’s organizer. “We would like to General Manager. “We always strive to make a 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts emphasize our passion to participate in such positive contribution to our society through cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch wide strips activities as a part of our social responsibility sponsorships, donations and other initiatives 1/3 cup milk program toward our community and strength- that help to make a difference,” Maged added. 1/3 cup grated Parmesan ening our social communications concept The event is part of Argana summer camp 1/2 cup oats between various community groups,” added that is being held in Movenpick Al-Bida’a till the 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder Zebib. The event included entertainment activi- 25 of July with a distinct sponsorship from a 3/4 teaspoon onion powder ties and traditional games in addition to distri- number of local and international firms, such as bution of presents. Movenpick Hotel and Resort Wataniya Telecommunication, Americana, PREPARATION: Al- Bida’a Kuwait - the host and one of the main Decathlon, Food choice, Fantasy world, Eureka, Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a large baking sponsors of the event- has also established a Monin, Mark Cons, Rauch drink and Mars. sheet with cooking spray. In a shallow dish, combine flour and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and black pepper. Place milk in a separate shallow dish. In a third shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, combine parmesan, oats, garlic powder, onion powder. You can also add any spices you like here - sometimes we add some Italian seasoning, other times some chili powder if we feel like spicy, etc. Dip chicken into flour and turn to coat. Dip flour-coated chicken into milk and then transfer chicken to oat mixture. Turn to coat chicken (or shake bag) until well covered with oat mixture. Place chicken on prepared baking sheet and spray the top of chicken with cooking spray. Bake 15 minutes, until crust is golden brown and chicken is cooked through. Bake, then turn on the broiler for a few minutes to really brown/crisp them and get the coating crunchy.

9) The following 2 are the names of Prophet Mohammad’s (PBUH) sons

A) Qasim & Ibrahim B) Yasir & Ali C) Zaid & Ali LOCAL

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 Kuwait’s diplomatic corps gathers for ghabka at Palms Beach Hotel and Spa

VIVA hosts the guests of the Merciful at Jaber Al Ali and Al-Rashid mosques during Ramadan KUWAIT: VIVA, Kuwait’s fastest-growing tele- “VIVA is participating this year in welcom- KUWAIT: Responding to an initiative extended by com operator, announced its sponsorship of ing worshippers in eight Ramadan tents at the General Manager of the Palms Beach Hotel & the Ramadan Tents that will be held at Al Al Rashid Mosque throughout the Holy Spa Rabie Al-Sukhon, ambassadors to Kuwait Rashid mosque in Adailiya, and Jaber Al Ali month, in addition to a number of tents that gathered with their families on July 14th 2013, to Mosque in South Surra throughout the Holy will be set up during the last ten days of the celebrate the Palms Ramadan Nights at the Palms month of Ramadan. These deeds are part of month to receive the worshippers of the Al- Beach Hotel and Spa. the many charitable initiatives that VIVA sup- Qyama and Tahajjud prayer nights. VIVA will The guests were warmly welcomed by the ports as they also reflect the importance of also sponsor four main Ramadan tents in General Manager and the hotel’s management the Holy days and the high turnout of wor- Jaber Al Ali mosque located in Al-Shuhada team to the new typical Andalusia tent with its shippers in Mosques to spend the night in area.” VIVA will be providing Ramadan tent magnificent atmosphere and setup at Jawa prayer in commemoration of the Night of halls, at both mosques, with all necessary Ramadan Tent Grand Ballroom. Revelation. supplies throughout the month of Ramadan, Invitees were treated to a lavish ghabka buffet VIVA said: “VIVA is proud to adopt and in addition to creating a spiritual and faith- abound with traditional Ramadan sweets and sponsor a number of activities that represent filled atmosphere to the crowds of worship- beverages and got indulged into distinctive live the spirit of giving and sharing during this pers from the beginning of the Holy month cooking stations while enjoying the live Oriental Holy month. We are happy to help welcome to the last ten days. music and the selective flavors of sheesha. thousands of the guests of the Merciful who To find out more about the location of The elite invitees commended the merits of the are fasting and spending their time in prayer any of the VIVA branches in Kuwait or the events and expressed warm appreciation for the and worship, regardless of their nationalities, company’s products and promotions, please warm hospitality and well planned and organized financial backgrounds, and social statuses in visit our website at www.viva.com.kw or night with its impressive theme and the lavish accordance with religious teachings.” contact its call center at 102. food and its wide variety and diversity. Al-Sukhon raised this opportunity to wish the ambassadors best success in their mission and praised the dis- tinguished relations between the diplomatic corps and the Palms Beach Hotel and Spa.

KRCS Iftar banquet for 300 orphans in Lebanon

BEIRUT: Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) launched an Iftar banquet program in Tripoli, north- ern Lebanon, the first banquet held for 300 orphans, as part of its Iftar project aiming to serve those in need and Syrian refugees in Lebanon. The program includes Iftar banquets for five consecutive days in Tripoli, and the society also distributed 1,000 Ramadan meals to Lebanese families as part of its Ramadan season activities, KRCS represen- tative in Lebanon Dr Musaed Al-Enizi said. Al-Enizi said KRCS Chairman Barjas Al-Barjas had ordered an increase in relief supplies for Syrian refugees during the holy month, an addition of 20, 000 meals within the Iftar project. The Kuwait Red Crescent Society is to con- tinue its Ramadan services and Iftar programs in Lebanon to cater to Syrian refugees in Al-Biqaa and other areas in northern and southern Lebanon, and it is hoped the Iftar banquets would serve over 35,000 refugee. — KUNA THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 LOCAL

kuwait digest In my view A journey When a good of suffering musical starts

By Dr Salah Al-Otaiqi

hat makes a person stand on the verge of begging a government employee to finalize a transaction? And Wwhat stops a government employee from doing the By Labeed Abdal job that the state is paying them to do? A work trip to a min- istry building in Kuwait is nothing short of a nightmare. In late June, I received a phone call from my chalet’s keeper informing me that the electricity has been cut since the morning. He suggested that the reason might be unpaid annual elec- tricity bills, but I know that couldn’t have been the case because I always make sure to pay my bills regularly. [email protected] Nonetheless, I went to the nearest Ministry of Electricity and Water office in Qurtuba in order to check what the source of o one can cover their eyes in front of the the problem could be. regional boxing fights taking place between After reaching the place, one employee told me that her Arabs. Getting back to good times needs coworker who handles complaints regarding chalets was N internal agendas and hard work from the decision absent, and that I have to either wait until tomorrow or go to the Surra office. Since waiting for an entire day is unbearable in makers towards the people. this heat, I opted to drive to Surra with the hope of finding a We in Kuwait must work more to get back our solution to the problem. After taking a flight of stairs to the political stability after long years of time wasting, an upper floor, I found six employees yelling for unknown reasons. unhealthy opposition and an unstable election sys- I explained my issue to one of them, who after entering my tem that only got settled lately. We must focus on information in her computer, told me that I do not exist in the pushing national development and making achieve- database! How come she tells me I don’t exist when I was ments that will reflect positively the feelings of all the standing right in front of her?! nationals and fellow expats working here. Nevertheless I gave her my civil ID to try and match my full In my view name and civil number, but no matching profile in the data- base was found. She then advised me to check with her man- ager who apparently had received several cases like mine Social impact of Ramadan We must achieve development before. So I went to his office and explained my case, after in the country and that which he told me that the best solution is to go find an old By Abdulrahman Al-Zuhayyan electricity bill voucher whose number can be used to retrieve should be a motive for voters my information as entered in the database. I went back home, hile standing in a queue at the checkout of a major food and to exchange them with their neighbors. Neighbors, found an old bill, drove back to Surra, climbed the same flight supermarket, there was a neatly dressed Saudi man friends, and relatives would take turns in inviting each other for to cast their ballots in order of stairs and gave the bill to the employee. But still the comput- Wstanding next to me with a black dyed goatee beard iftar or dinner during the month of Ramadan. Women would er continued to refuse acknowledging my existence! I went and mustache. He appeared to be a middle-level retired gov- especially enjoy these occasions to exhibit their expertise in to pick efficient hopefuls who back to the manager, who told me that the only option left was ernment employee. cooking and show hospitality to their female friends by serving to go to the MEW head office in South Surra. It was nearly 12:00 With eyes that lacked luster, the man looked at me and the best food they could cook. are able to push forward the pm at the time, and I was already too exhausted from driving remarked: “You have got a lot of stuff, this could last three Today, in spite of the modest wealth we have, we hardly see and walking since morning. But who can tolerate staying for months. You must be out of food.” children walking in our neighborhoods with food-trays in their national development one day in this heat without air conditioning? So I went to I replied I was anticipating a lot of guests during the month hands. Our children arrive at the dinner table very late; they South Surra, and had to park my car nearly 500 m away from of Ramadan. His jaw dropped: “Nobody visits anyone nowa- taste the food and leave very quickly. Visits from friends and process in the nation. the MEW building because all parking spots there were occu- days.” Although the encounter with this seasoned man was guests have receded and for many the month of Ramadan will pied by employees’ cars. brief, the conversation validated and confirmed an existing come and go without a visitor. Most people now live in solitary After going inside, I was met by an employee who offered social reality - the way we celebrate the holy month of enclaves. The difference between the Ramadan of the past and to help. I gave him my papers, and he offered me a seat to wait Ramadan has changed poignantly. Ramadan used to be a time the present, which is measured by the actual observance of the Voters are required to participate in the forthcom- while he investigated the issue. Finally, he came back shortly when people met and entertained friends and family. However, month, points to wealth as the primary cause of this social ing parliamentary election and to vote for efficient afterwards with the answer: I have no problems at all! It turned this has changed and so has the way we celebrate Eid Al-Fitr. transformation. In the past, people had limited financial candidates who will put Kuwait first and all those liv- out that what happened that day is that the area where my It could be argued that this allegation is based on a nostal- resources, which in turn limited their possibilities to look and ing on its land. Having a more modern look for our chalet is located had a blackout, and that electricity was even- gic sentiment rather than an actual reality, as Ramadan and Eid examine beyond their communities. All were almost economi- capital, better transportation, health, education and tually restored. The issue had nothing to do with unpaid bills - are the most joyous events that people experience in their cally equal and socially similar. security systems must be our priority. the employee explained that my payment is up to date. childhoods. The Eid of bygone days had a special meaning with The oil boom totally restructured our community economi- We must achieve development in the country and I felt reassured that the issue was resolved, and that I at lasting memories for all. As a result, this claim can only be veri- cally and socially. The government facilitated different possibili- least exist in the MEW main office computers! Yet, there is noth- fied by comparing the practical observance of these two reli- ties to access various financial resources, for example home, that should be a motive for voters to cast their ballots ing that can compensate the time and effort lost for unneces- gious events in the past and present. How far can we go in the industrial, agricultural loans. in order to pick efficient hopefuls who are able to sary reasons. Who is responsible for this loss? The database? past? Three decades ago is enough to examine Saudi society Tremendous wealth became available in the hands of peo- push forward the national development process in The employee who couldn’t put a little extra effort to save me before the oil boom of the 1970s. Before this era, most people ple, something that has expanded their possibilities beyond the nation. all the trips I did not have to make? Or bureaucracy in the pub- had little financial wealth. Despite that, they had a little of their communities and beyond their limited needs which was I can’t talk only about us as Kuwaitis as we share lic sector? everything - they enjoyed and shared with their neighbors and mainly focused on making ends meet and has now shifted to all highs and lows with our foreign guests. We all I remember forty years ago while studying in the United relatives whatever they had. building a palace for the weekend. must play a significant role in boosting national States, I used to pay the electricity bill in the grocery store or An hour before iftar, neighbors and relatives would sample These new material goals to own more things have awak- development and achieving major accomplishments, pharmacy across the street from my house. Today, I don’t each other’s food. Children would be seen walking in streets ened dormant sentiments of jealousy from those who have understand why we have to suffer in our home country every for the people must be always in the front row and and alleyways holding large trays in their hands or carrying more. Without the spirit of Ramadan, specifically those commu- never at the back when a good musical starts. time we need to pay a visit to a state department. — Al-Qabas them on top of their heads and knocking on doors to deliver nal values, our society may drift into spiritual disintegration.

kuwait digest Visa traffickers not prosecuted

By Ibrahim Al-Awadhi

recently checked a number of reports released by the Furthermore, the ministry should expose the names of International Labor Organization that pertain with visa traffickers in the media and try them in court to set Iexpatriate labor forces around the world. an example. Simultaneously, I read statements of Kuwait’s Minister of I was also hoping that Kuwait would follow the foot- Social Affairs and Labor Thekra Al-Rasheedi made during steps of Saudi Arabia that gave a grace period to visa the annual ILO conference about Kuwait’s role in meet- violators in which they can legalize their status. In six ing international standards with regards to protecting months, more than 1.5 million expatriates workers in workers’ rights. After that, I compared her statements Saudi Arabia have legalized their status. It is unfair to with her infamous declaration of referring visa traffickers blame the workers alone in Kuwait for their illegal status, to the public prosecution soon. when they are in fact victims of visa traffickers. This announcement came when she assumed office This situation also reflected negatively on the private late last year. ‘Soon’ should generally mean a month or sector, as the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor reject- two maximum. It seems that the minister was too excit- ed many recruitment applications filed by companies in ed at the beginning of her tenure that she overlooked compliance with all requirements. The companies were the fact that none of her predecessors were able to told that their applications were rejected because the reach visa traffickers. It is very sad to witness daily local labor market is already sufficient with labor forces - reports about arrests of workers with expired or illegal which is caused by the out of control recruitments of visas without reading similar reports about prosecuting visa traffickers. Furthermore, urging companies to look those behind the spread of this phenomenon in Kuwait. for employees from the local market is like an encour- Many of these workers sold everything they had back agement to visa traffickers to continue supplying the home and left their families behind in pursuit of profit in local market with labor forces! Kuwait, only to find themselves becoming fugitives soon What we need is a little bit of reason. Look for the after stepping foot into this country. root cause of the problem and hold the real people If their law enforcement efforts were real, the Interior responsible accountable. But it seems that this will not Ministry should look for people who recruit these work- happen as long as visa traffickers continue acting above ers then cheat them of the chance of a decent living. the law and the minister’s jurisdiction. — Al-Rai

kuwait digest What are you talking about?

By Dr Bader Al-Daihani

ut of goodwill and despite the clear difference and constitutional stable countries do not necessarily between them both, some people sometimes mix complete their presidential tenures. An elected president Owhat usually happens in stable democratic and may be forced to step down if his practices are illegiti- constitutional countries with what happened and what is mate, so tell me about the Egyptian transitional period happening after the Egyptian revolution. In democratic during which a new democratic regime should be found- countries, there is a firm constitutional system built on ed! democratic principles and bases such as power shifting, Morsi’s legitimacy greatly quaked after the Nov 21, diversity, separation of powers, respecting minorities and 2012 constitutional declaration that was dictated by protecting freedoms. unofficial establishments by which he not only immu- On the other hand, ever since the Jan 25 revolution in nized his previous and subsequent decisions, but also Egypt until now, what is needed is to set the basis of a immunized the Shura council and the constituent com- democratic system (that is the mechanism of ruling, not mittee formed to phrase the constitution against being who rules) that requires a great deal of agreement dissolved, which means blowing up the basis and condi- between various Egyptians regardless who is ruling, Morsi tions on which he was elected. or somebody else, because whoever comes to power will It also means blowing away the democratic regime have limited authorities as set by the constitution. and shifting to a dictatorship. What is even more danger- This misleading confusion has been promoted by the ous is that all presidential decisions were controlled and Muslim Brotherhood media and gives a bad impression to directed by an authority outside the presidency, similar to the public that supporting the Egyptian revolution and the Supreme Leader’s authority in Iran. That is why defending democracy are two different things. This con- demonstrators shouted slogans like ‘Down With the fusion is misleading because it is based on a false Morshid (Supreme Guide) Regime’ on June 30. assumption that whoever supports the June 30 revolu- The Egyptian people’s fears were reconfirmed after tion and its consequences is anti-democracy because the toppling Morsi by the fact that his followers still advo- deposed president had been elected and cannot be cate that the political conflict was a religious one replaced unless through the ballot box. between Islam represented by Morsi and infidelity rep- That is, of course, not true because, as I wrote in a pre- resented by all those against him. What democracy or vious article - ballot boxes are not the only element of modern secular constitutional state are you talking legitimacy. Elected presidents in the most democratically about then?!! — Al-Jarida THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013

Gunmen kill pro-Assad Brotherhood holds protest day as Egypt cabinet starts work figure in Lebanon as Syria war spreads Page 8 Page 9

SARAN: Grief-stricken family members react over the bodies of their children who died after consuming a free mid day meal at a school at Gandaman in Saran District, India’s Bihar state yesterday. — AFP Contaminated school meal kills 25 Indian kids Medics suspect food was contaminated with insecticide PATNA: At least 25 Indian children died and dozens needed hospital treatment after apparently being poisoned by a school meal, sparking violent protests and angry allegations of blame. The children aged four to 12 fell ill on Tuesday after consuming a lunch of rice, soybean and lentils in the impov- erished eastern state of Bihar. The school, at Mashrakh vil- lage in the district of Chapra, provided free meals under the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, the world’s largest school feeding programme involving 120 million children. Medical teams treating the children said they suspected the food had been contaminated with insecticide. “It appears to be a case of poisoning but we will have to wait for forensic reports ... Had it been a case of (natural) food poisoning, so many children would not have died,” Poonam Kumari, local government administrator at the village, told Reuters by phone from Mashrakh. “The administration has helped cremate 21 children and, unfortunately, four more children have to be cremated,” she said, adding that the remainder of a total of 48 children who consumed the contaminated food were being treated in Patna. “We feel that some kind of insecticide was either acciden- tally or intentionally mixed in the food, but that will be clear through investigations,” said R.K. Singh, medical superin- tendent at the children’s hospital in the state capital Patna. “We prepared antidotes and treated the children for organophosphorous poisoning,” he said. Organophosphorus compounds are used as pesticides. The state government said it was investigating the cause of the disaster. The school headmistress fled after the deaths became known and was dismissed, P.K. Shahi, Bihar’s education min- SARAN: An Indian father grieves over the body of his ister, told a news conference. “In spite of the cook’s com- child who consumed a free mid day meal, in Dharma Sati plaint (over the smell of cooking oil used for the food), the village in the Saran district of Bihar yesterday. —AFP headmistress insisted on its use and the cook made the food. The children had also complained about the food to the cook,” Shahi said. The cook, who also fell ill after eating the food and was hospitalised, told Reuters television it had looked as if there was a layer of residue at the bottom of the oil jar. “I thought that this is locally-made oil as often there is an accumulation of residual waste at the bottom ... generally we get just about enough oil to prepare one meal, as there is no space for storage,” Manju Devi said in Hindi. Opposition parties accused the Janata Dal party-led gov- ernment of acting too slowly to hospitalise the children and dozens of people took to the streets to protest, television channels showed. Demonstrators pelted a police station with stones, set ablaze buses and other vehicles, chanted slogans denouncing the state government and burned effi- gies of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. “I feel that the gov- ernment completely failed vis-a-vis the evacuation of the affected children,” said Rajiv Pratap Rudy, a spokesman for the main federal opposition Bharatiya Janata Party, said. “As soon as my boy returned from school, we rushed to the hospital with him,” said Raja Yadav, the father of one schoolboy. “He was vomiting and he said his stomach was aching.” Three of the children being treated in the hospital were in critical condition, doctors and Shahi said. Kumar has ordered an inquiry into the incident and has offered 200,000 rupees ($3,400) to the families of those who have died, state food minister Shyam Rajak said. Bihar, bordering Nepal, is one of the most impoverished states in India, according to government data. Kumar came to power in 2005, ousting a government which had been blamed for rampant corruption and sluggish growth in the poor east- ern state. —Reuters MANSOORI

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 INTERNATIONAL

Accusations of a plot to poison the prez grip Benin

COTONOU: The case unfolded like the plot was once his ally, is behind it all. The falling out between Yayi and Talon leaked when Yayi’s niece spoke of it to oth- ed the release of four of the accused in the of a thriller: the Benin president’s niece, his It is “like a couple’s badly negotiated has never been fully explained. Talon, ers, who then warned the president. poison plot case, including Yayi’s niece, his doctor and an ex-minister were accused of divorce,” said Serge Prince-Agbodjan, who despite helping finance Yayi’s two presi- Behind it all was Talon, prosecutors say, doctor, the ex-commerce minister and the being part of a conspiracy to poison him runs a blog analysing legal affairs in Benin. dential campaigns, later lost two lucrative who several months later in March was president’s bodyguard. Their call came by replacing his medicine. But this was no “We are witnessing live Talon’s descent into state contracts involving the country’s also accused of being behind a coup plot after an appeals judge confirmed a lower novel, and fallout from the accusations hell.” Even if the supreme court says there is port, which accounts for some 60 percent foiled by the authorities. “In June 2011, it court ruling in May that there was no evi- made in October may soon come to a insufficient evidence, it likely will not be of GDP, and its cotton industry. Then came was the head of state himself who defend- dence and called for the four to be head. The supreme court in this small West the end of the ordeal for Talon. He is the stunning accusations in October. ed his friend before the press when it came released. African nation is expected soon to decide accused of being both the mastermind of According to prosecutors, the presi- to the contract at the port of Cotonou,” said State prosecutor Justin Gbenameto whether there is enough evidence to try the poison plot as well as of an alleged dent’s niece, Zouberath Kora-Seke, and his rights activist Martin Assogba. says they are being held pending an the case after earlier rulings called for the foiled coup bid. physician Ibrahim Mama Cisse were prom- “No one could have foreseen a falling appeal to the supreme court. It is unclear suspects to be freed. He has fled to France, and his case, ised around $2 million to carry out the poi- out between the two men.” Talon was when the supreme court will rule. Some see the accusations as President along with that of another suspected son plot. Former commerce minister arrested in December at his Paris residence Wilfried Leandre Houngbedji of state-run Thomas Boni Yayi’s way of ridding himself accomplice on the run, Olivier Boko, has Moudjaidou Soumanou allegedly acted as on a warrant issued by Benin and was The Nation newspaper said the falling of political enemies, while others argue been separated from the other accused. an intermediary. The alleged plot involved forced to surrender his passport before out between Yayi and Talon was the key that a prominent businessman was seek- Speaking in an interview with Radio France replacing Yayi’s anti-pain medicine. Police being released. A French court has asked to understanding the case. “Talon wanted ing revenge against a leader clamping International when the poison allegations also said there were claims of a plan for for more evidence from Benin to allow it to to continue to grow his business with the down on corruption. The case has shaken were made, the 55-year-old Talon said of Yayi’s niece and his doctor to be assassinat- rule on the extradition request. Elements complicity of the president, but the other up politics here, and a number of analysts Yayi: “I counseled him and introduced him ed after the plot was carried out to conceal of the case in the meantime have begun to in the meantime changed his mind, say the relationship between the business- where I could for his arrival in power in what happened. face criticism from rights activists. which seemed to him to be a betrayal,” he man, Patrice Talon, and the president, who 2006, then in 2011.” Prosecutors said word of the plot Last week, civil society groups demand- said. —AFP Brotherhood holds protest day as Egyptian cabinet starts work Thousands of Brotherhood supporters throng streets CAIRO: Thousands of supporters of “Peaceful martyrdom!” A few dozen others would meet Ashton “to but is also less polarising, and tried deposed Egyptian President youths wearing construction helmets express our position on legitimacy in the past to mediate between Mohamed Morsi demonstrated out- and armed with sticks tried to charge and democracy with the hope that Morsi and his opponents. On her last side the prime minister’s office and at the Brotherhood supporters being they will aid democracy and respect visit, in April, Ashton tried to per- marched through Cairo on held back by police. Eventually the the choices made by the Egyptian suade Morsi to sign up to a power- Wednesday to protest against a mili- crowd dispersed. people”. Morsi has been held at an sharing deal brokered by an EU tary-backed cabinet on its first full day Egypt swore in an interim cabinet undisclosed location and has not envoy with the Islamist’s opponents. at work. Islamist protesters held up on Tuesday of 33 ministers, mostly been charged with a crime, although Morsi did not respond. Korans and portraits of Morsi in the technocrats and liberals. Not one was the authorities have announced noon heat outside the main govern- drawn from the two main Islamist fac- investigations into complaints of spy- Kidnapped? ment buildings, demanding Morsi be tions that won five straight elections ing, inciting violence and wrecking Morsi’s supporters say he has restored to power following his over- since a 2011 uprising toppled auto- the economy. Prosecutors have also been “kidnapped”; a military throw by the army. They shouted crat Hosni Mubarak. “Does it believe reopened a 2011 jailbreaking case spokesman said he was being held “God is Greatest!”, “Down with military in itself? Does anybody?” Essam El- over Morsi’s escape from brief deten- for his own protection. Morsi was rule!” and “We are all Morsi!” Erian, a senior leader in Morsi’s tion during protests against “not detained, but the armed forces Crisis in Egypt, which straddles the Muslim Brotherhood, said on Mubarak. took certain measures for his protec- AMMAN: US Secretary of State John Kerry speaks during a joint press con- tion, because he has supporters and ference with Jordan’s Foreign Minister Nasser yesterday at the Ministry of opponents and in light of the lack of Foreign Affairs in Amman. —AP stability in the Egyptian streets”, the spokesman, Ahmed Mohamed Ali, told Al-Arabiya TV. ‘Too early’ to judge Egypt He denied the military was involved in politics: “There is no presence for us on the political course after Morsi: Kerry scene. There is a president for the AMMAN: US Secretary of State John Kerry would legally require a freeze on some $1.5 state, and a cabinet has been yesterday said it was too early to judge yet billion in US military and economic assis- formed. We are out of the picture the future course of Egypt following the tance to Cairo. totally and do not desire rule.” ouster of Mohamed Morsi. “Very clearly Kerry again refused to say whether the However, the new cabinet includes order needs to be restored to the streets, United States believed that Morsi’s ouster the armed forces chief, Abdel Fattah stability needs to be restored, violence by the military was a coup. “This is obvious- al-Sisi, in the joint roles of first needs to be ended, rights need to be pro- ly an extremely complex and difficult situa- deputy prime minister and defence tected ... and the country needs to be able tion,” he said. “The fact is we need to take minister. to return to normal business,” Kerry told a the time necessary because of the com- The Brotherhood has maintained press conference in Amman. “We are con- plexity of the situation to evaluate what a vigil into its third week, with thou- cerned about political arrests and we are has taken place, to review all of our require- sands of supporters camped out in a concerned about the freedom of people to ments under the law and to make it consis- Cairo square vowing not to leave be able to participate because we think tent with our policy objectives, as is appro- unless Morsi is restored to office. It that’s an important part of the restoration priate. has called protests attracting tens of of the heart and soul of Egypt,” Kerry said. “I’m not going to rush to judgement on thousands of people every few days. He added it was “much too early to it. I’m going to wait until our lawyers have Running street battles in the early make pronouncements or judge where it’s done their homework on it,” he told a joint hours of Tuesday were the deadliest going to go.” “The proof will be in the pud- press conference in Amman with Jordanian in a week. Before that, more than 90 ding,” the top US diplomat added, reiterat- Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh. But he said people were killed in the first five ing that the Washington would continue to prior to Morsi’s ouster there had been an days after Morsi was removed, more push for an inclusive government in Cairo. “extraordinary situation in Egypt, of life and CAIRO: A supporter of Egypt’s ousted President Mohammed Morsi wears an Islamic veil which than half of them shot dead by On Monday Deputy Secretary William death, of the potential of civil war and reads “ There is no god but God, Mohammed is the messenger of God,” during a rally in a park in troops outside a Cairo barracks. Burns was in Cairo, the most senior enormous violence, and you now have a front of Cairo University, where protesters have installed their camp yesterday. —AP Military spokesman Ali accused American official to visit Egypt since the constitutional process proceeding forward the Brotherhood of “a campaign of July 3 coup which removed Morsi. very rapidly.” Suez Canal and has a peace treaty Facebook of the new cabinet. “How “Road map” incitement that attempts to depict Burns urged Egypt’s divided factions to All of those facts had to be measured with Israel, has alarmed allies in the can it have any authority when it The interim cabinet is charged political differences as religious dif- engage in dialogue and end violence. State “against the law,” he added. He said that “at West. European Union foreign policy knows that with one word from the with implementing an army-backed ferences. There is incitement to tar- Department spokesman Patrick Ventrell lat- first blush” he looked at the line-up of the chief Catherine Ashton became the military all its members can be sent “road map” to restore civilian rule, get military installations and head- er said violence which has rocked Egypt interim government and he knew that latest international figure to visit home on pain of being arrested?” which foresees parliamentary elec- quarters, and this is something total- since Morsi’s ouster made the transition “they were extremely competent people.” Egypt’s interim rulers. Unlike a US Tuesday’s swearing-in took place tions in as little as six months. Its ly unacceptable in Egypt or in any “much more difficult,” but he insisted He was speaking after meeting with Arab envoy who came two days ago, she in an ornate hall hours after seven main task is salvaging an economy country”. Washington was not taking sides. League ministers and officials at which the was also expected to meet senior fig- people were killed and more than wrecked by two and a half years of The authorities have charged the Washington has refrained from saying upheaval in Egypt was one of the main top- ures in Morsi’s Muslim Brotherhood. 260 wounded in overnight street bat- turmoil. For that, it has been given a Brotherhood’s main leaders with Morsi was the victim of a coup, which ics on the agenda. — AFP The army, which removed Egypt’s tles between Morsi supporters and lifeline of $12 billion in aid from rich inciting violence during the protests, first freely-elected president two the security forces, marking the worst Gulf Arab states. Many of the new although in most cases they have weeks ago, accused Morsi’s support- violence in a week. “I am going to cabinet ministers are supporters of not followed through with arrests. In ers of inciting armed demonstrations Egypt to reinforce our message that deep economic reforms demanded the lawless Sinai peninsular border- near military bases. However, the there must be a fully inclusive politi- by the International Monetary Fund ing Israel and the Palestinian Gaza afternoon’s protest was mostly peace- cal process, taking in all groups which in return for a stalled rescue loan, Strip, Islamist militants have called fully although there were scuffles support democracy,” Ashton said in a but investors are sceptical those for an uprising against Egypt’s mili- when the crowd marched through statement before her trip. “I will reforms will be implemented soon. tary. At least 13 mainly security per- the city centre and along the Nile underline that Egypt needs to return The new planning minister has said sonnel have been killed there since riverbank, held back by riot police as as rapidly as possible to its democrat- it is too soon to restart IMF talks and Morsi’s overthrow on July 3, and late they approached Tahrir Square, focus ic transition.” the Arab cash is enough to sustain on Tuesday attackers used rockets for anti-Morsi protests. Mohamed Bishr, a member of the Egypt through its transition. and machine guns against an “We have only two goals, legitima- Brotherhood’s 17-strong advisory Ashton could offer the EU as a Egyptian army camp near Rafah, a cy or martyrdom,” said Ahmed Ouda, council and former minister in Morsi’s mediator. Brussels is not as big a town straddling Sinai and Gaza. Two 27. Another man interrupted to add: government, told Reuters he and donor to Egypt as the United States soldiers were wounded. —Reuters Peace accord architect Eritrea pays warlord quits Mali election race to influence Somalia BAMAKO: The chief negotiator in a ceasefire Movement for the Liberation of Azawad UNITED NATIONS: Eritrea is undermining stability in con- deal with rebels paving the way for presiden- (MNLA) has been a major obstacle to organis- flict-ravaged Somalia by paying political agents and a war- GOMA: A Congolese army soldier reacts to shelling in Kanyarucinya, around tial elections across Mali said Tuesday he had ing the election, seen as crucial to Mali’s recov- lord linked to Islamist militants to influence the Mogadishu 10 km from Goma in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo yes- withdrawn from the race less than two weeks ery from the conflict of the past 16 months. government, UN sanctions experts said in a confidential terday. Heavy fighting resumed this afternoon, with artillery shelling and report. The Eritrean government has long denied playing any before the watershed vote. Tiebile Drame, The decision to hold the first round on July 28, small arms combat in Kanyarucinya, and to the north, around Kibati. —AFP architect of the Ouagadougou Accord possibly followed by a second round on negative role in Somalia, saying it has no links to Islamist al enabling Malian troops to secure polls in the August 11, was taken by the Malian govern- Shabaab militants fighting to overthrow the Somali govern- Tuareg-held northeastern city of Kidal, said ment under pressure from the international ment. It says the UN sanctions imposed on it in 2009 for sup- Bulgaria still hunts for the deeply divided country was not ready to community, and especially former colonial porting al Shabaab were based on lies and has called for the run a credible election. “I decided to withdraw power France. sanctions to be lifted. my candidacy for the July 28 election because Drame blasted “interfering” French officials, The latest annual report by the UN Monitoring Group on bus bomber, one year on the conditions for a fair vote are not in place,” singling out Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius Somalia and Eritrea to the Security Council’s Somalia/Eritrea SOFIA: A year after an anti-Israeli bus bombing The bomber-who was also killed in the Drame told reporters in Bamako. He said the who he said had effectively become “the sanctions committee casts fresh doubt on Asmara’s denials, killed six people, Bulgaria is struggling to identify attack-was a Caucasian-looking man caught on election law had been violated because no director of elections in Mali”. Malian military undermining its case for lifting the sanctions against it. “The the attacker or confirm his suspected links to airport cameras loitering in the arrivals hall with electoral register was available in Kidal by officers staged a coup in March last year after Monitoring Group has received numerous reports about the Hezbollah or Iran. The July 18, 2012, bombing at a big backpack on his shoulders. Bulgarian inves- June 25. being overpowered by an MNLA rebellion. warming of relations between Asmara and Mogadishu, and Bulgaria’s Black Sea Burgas airport was the dead- tigators managed to recover DNA and finger- Drame, a former minister and leader of the The Tuaregs seized key northern cities before has obtained evidence of Asmara’s control of political agents liest attack on Israelis abroad since 2004 and the prints from his remains along with an fake Party of National Revival (Parena), added that being sidelined by their Al-Qaeda-linked allies close to the Somali presidency and some of the individual first in a EU member state. Five Israeli tourists and American driver’s licence in the name of Jacques going ahead on July 28 would be “to deny who imposed their harsh version of sharia law spoilers,” the group said in the report, seen by Reuters. their Bulgarian (Muslim) bus driver were killed Felipe Martin. many Malians their right” to vote. Drame has in towns under their control. One such operative, the monitors said, is “Eritrean agent and some 30 other people were injured. This data and a computer-generated image petitioned Mali’s Constitutional Court for a The MNLA sided with a French-led military of influence Abdi Nur Siad ‘Abdi Wal,’ ... who is reported to The bus was carrying a group of more than however failed to return a match from Interpol postponement of the elections but, with 11 offensive, which reclaimed most of the lost have a close relationship with a senior Al-Shabaab com- 40 Israeli tourists from the airport after they had databases. Israel immediately blamed Iran, which days to go, its justices have not yet ruled on territory from the Islamists, but the Tuaregs mander.” The monitors describe Abdi Wal as a “warlord.” “Abdi just arrived in the country. On Thursday, officials denied complicity, and its “terrorist proxy” the request. “We went to the court hoping for have been reluctant to allow government Wal is now a close ally of former ARS-Asmara (a Somali from Bulgaria and Israel as well as relatives of the Hezbollah for the bombing. Two identical driver’s a decision but since none has been forthcom- troops into Kidal for the vote. The rebels and Islamist network in Eritrea) leader Zakaria Mohamed Haji victims will open a monument at the site of the licences-made in Lebanon and used by two of ing I’m withdrawing my petition and I’m with- government agreed as part of a ceasefire deal Abdi, for whom he provides security in Mogadishu,” the mon- attack on the first anniversary of the bombing. the perpetrator’s suspected accomplices-allowed drawing my candidacy,” he said, while vowing brokered chiefly by Drame to halt hostilities itors said. “He is known to command the allegiance of about But 12 months on, investigators are increasingly investigators to track down the real identities of to do nothing to hinder the election. and on July 5 soldiers entered Kidal while the 100 fighters in Mogadishu and is involved in contract frustrated at efforts to track down those respon- Canadian and Australian passport holders resid- The occupation of Kidal by the National rebels were confined to camps. —AFP killings.” — Reuters sible. ing in Lebanon since 2006 and 2010. —AFP INTERNATIONAL THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 Iran dissidents in Iraq slam UN envoy

UNITED NATIONS: The outgoing UN special ership,” Kobler said. “Hundreds of daily monitor- power after US-led forces invaded and toppled defenseless Camp Liberty (Hurriya) residents. By envoy to Iraq on Tuesday accused the leaders of ing reports suggest that the lives of Camp Saddam in 2003. Some exiles say they suspect such remarks, Kobler was hoping to make the sub- an Iranian dissident group at a camp in Iraq of Hurriya members are tightly controlled.” “A signif- that Baghdad might be ready to send them back mission by families of the Camp Liberty residents human rights abuses, an allegation the move- icant number of residents have reported to U.N. to Iran. There have been two rocket attacks on to the UN and their call for investigation on his ment dismissed as baseless and potentially dan- monitors that they are not free to leave the Camp Hurriya this year, one in February and conduct ineffective.” The United Nations has gerous for the exiled dissidents. Members of the camp, to participate in the resettlement process another last month. Some 10 residents were defended Kobler and denied the allegations Iranian dissident group Mujahadin-e-Khalq living offered by UNHCR, to contact family members killed and 71 wounded. about a cover-up. “We regret that MeK and its sup- in Camp Hurriya near Baghdad have been trans- outside Iraq, or to have contact with other rela- porters continue to focus on public distortions of ferred there from Camp Ashraf north of the Iraqi tives even within the camp itself,” he said, refer- ‘Personalized attacks’ the UN’s efforts to promote a peaceful, humanitar- capital, where they had lived for nearly a decade ring to the UN refugee agency. Shahin Gobadi, a spokesman for the National ian solution on Camp Ashraf and, in particular, its until last year. Some Hurriya residents reported being Council of Resistance of Iran, denied the allega- highly personalized attacks on the UN envoy for The group and its political wing, the National denied access to medical treatment by camp tions of Kobler, whom the Iranian dissidents have Iraq,” UN spokesman Martin Nesirky said. Council of Resistance of Iran, have complained leaders, while others spoke of verbal and other long accused of lying and covering up facts about There are around 100 Iranians remaining at repeatedly about the conditions at Camp forms of abuse for disagreeing with camp leaders what they say are substandard conditions at Camp Ashraf who refuse to leave, Kobler said. He Hurriya, formerly known as Camp Liberty, and or voicing the desire to leave, Kobler said. The Hurriya. “These allegations are so baseless that the described the situation at Ashraf as tense. Last security problems. U.N. envoy Martin Kobler, who Mujahadin-e-Khalq, taken off the US list of terror- Iranian resistance has on 50 occasions called for week, lawyers for the families at Camp Hurriya will take up a similar position in the Democratic ist organizations last year, calls for the overthrow an independent fact-finding mission to investi- held a news conference in New York to present a Republic of Congo next month, told the Security of Iran’s Shi’ite Muslim clerical leadership. It gate all these claims and all other lies that Kobler petition to the United Nations calling for an imme- Council that the United Nations had received fought alongside the forces of Iraq’s late Sunni has disseminated,” he said. “But neither Kobler nor diate return to Camp Ashraf. The Mujahadin-e- complaints about the Iranian group’s leadership Muslim dictator Saddam Hussein in the 1980- the government of Iraq has agreed to any inde- Khalq insists that the United States, whose forces at the camp. 1988 Iran-Iraq war. pendent investigation.” initially helped them settle in Ashraf after the 2003 “Of increasing concern are the human rights The group is no longer welcome in Iraq under Gobadi added: “Kobler’s remarks and claims invasion, still bears responsibility for their safety. abuses in Camp Hurriya itself by the camp lead- the Shi’ite Muslim-led government that came to simply set the stage for further attacks on — Reuters Gunmen kill pro-Assad figure in Lebanon as Syria war spreads Turkish troops return fire after two civilians killed

BEIRUT: Gunmen assassinated a well-known killed and two were wounded when a convoy of army said troops later returned fire. Ankara was media defender of Syrian President Bashar Al- vehicles heading to Syria from Lebanon was quick to condemn Assad’s crackdown on pro- Assad in Lebanon yesterday, as Syria’s civil war ambushed with a bomb and gunfire. A Syrian testers in 2011 but has been wary of unilateral steadily infects its smaller neighbour. The con- Kurd who had lived in Sarafand for 20 years, intervention, especially after Kurdish separatists flict is also spilling over Syria’s northern border, Jamo appeared regularly on Al-Manar television and Islamist militants moved into northern areas where Turkish troops returned fire after stray and radio broadcasts. Last week a car bomb following a retreat by Syrian state forces. bullets from Syria struck the police headquarters wounded more than 50 people in a southern The latest clashes between Kurdish fighters, and several homes in the Turkish border town of Beirut suburb controlled by Hezbollah, who broadly favour creating an autonomous Ceylanpinar, the Turkish military said. In Lebanon’s most powerful political-military fac- Kurdish region in Syria, and Islamist Arabs began Lebanon, Mohammad Darra Jamo, a commen- tion. In late May, rockets were fired at another on Tuesday after Nusra fighters attacked a tator for Syrian state media who often appeared Hezbollah area of southern Beirut. Near the Kurdish patrol and took a gunman hostage, the PRETORIA: Members of the ruling party youth league sing outside the Mediclinic on Arab TV channels to promote Assad’s cause, Syrian-Turkish border, Kurdish armed men took Observatory said. In southern Syria, a car bomb Heart Hospital where former South African President Nelson Mandela is being treat- was killed by gunmen at his home in the south- ed yesterday. — AP ern Shiite Muslim town of Sarafand, security sources said. Mandela makes It was the first assassination of a pro-Assad figure in Lebanon since the Syrian revolt began 28 months ago and follows several attacks in ‘dramatic’ progress recent weeks against the Lebanese Shiite Hezbollah group, which is now fighting for JOHANNESBURG: Nelson Mandela has made charity to match what they say are the 67 Assad in Syria. Lebanon, whose own 15-year civil “dramatic progress,” and may be going home years that Mandela served his community. war ended in 1990, is struggling to stay on the “anytime soon,” said his daughter Zindzi on Mandela led South Africa through a tense the eve of his 95th birthday. “I visited him yes- transition from apartheid to democracy and sidelines of the conflict next door, but car terday and he was watching television with became president in the country’s first all- bombs and clashes between groups supporting headphones,” said Zindzi Mandela in an inter- race elections in 1994. rival sides in Syria have become increasingly view with Britain’s Sky TV. “He gave us a huge President Jacob Zuma will mark the birth- common. Syrian state media blamed an “armed smile and raised his hand ... He responds with day by overseeing the donation of houses to terrorist group” for the killing, which took place his eyes and his hands.” Mandela is gaining poor white families in the Pretoria area, in line at around 2 am (2300 GMT Tuesday) and the “energy and strength,” said his daughter. “I with his Cabinet’s theme to commemorate Syrian Information Ministry called it a “heinous should think he will be going home anytime Mandela’s birthday this year by focusing on crime”. Lebanese security sources said support- soon.” food security, shelter and literacy. In Cape ers of Syrian rebels were top suspects in the The latest description by Zindzi - who is Town, labor activists are holding an event at killing in a Shi’ite area of the south, where one of Mandela’s daughters by his second St. George’s Cathedral on Thursday, in Hezbollah’s security control is normally tight. wife, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela - is a signifi- remembrance of Mandela’s years of service cant improvement from court documents and to encourage people to donate food to Telephone warning filed by the family earlier this month which charity while leaving messages of support for Syria’s mostly Sunni Muslim rebels have SARAFAND: Fatima (right) daughter of Mohammed Darrar Jammo a Syrian political analyst said he was on life support and near death. the former leader’s family. threatened to take the war into Lebanon after and one of Syrian President Bashar Assad’s strongest defenders, who was gunned down inside Mandela has been in a Pretoria hospital since Mandela, who is in critical but stable con- his home, is comforted by a relative as she mourns her father yesterday. — AP June 8 and officials say his condition is critical dition, has been hospitalized since June 8, Hezbollah sent fighters to help Assad, whose but stable. and hundreds of well-wishers have left Alawite sect is a branch of Shiite Islam. The war The news of the improvement in prayers and messages of hope at his in Syria, which has cost more than 94,000 lives, control of most the town of Ras Al-Ain town killed several civilians, including women and Mandela’s health will boost his supporters in Johannesburg home and at the hospital has taken on an increasingly sectarian and frag- from Islamist rebels of the Al-Qaeda-linked children in the town of Kanaker, Syrian state tel- South Africa and around the world who are where he is being treated. Legal documents mented aspect For several weeks pro-Assad Nusra Front, a monitoring group said. The Syrian evision said. The Observatory quoted activists as preparing to celebrate his 95th birthday on have said Mandela’s breathing is machine- forces have been making military gains in Syria, Observatory for Human Rights, an anti-Assad saying the blast had killed seven people in the Thursday, a day declared by the United assisted. The anti-apartheid leader has also while rebel groups have been plagued by group, reported fierce clashes in Ras Al-Ain on town, which is government-held but besieged Nations as a way to recognize the Nobel Prize inspired artists and graphic designers who infighting between Islamist militants and the yesterday in a district only about 200 metres by rebels. The Observatory also reported clash- winner’s contribution to reconciliation. celebrate his life through paintings and Free Syrian Army. (yards) from the Turkish border. es and bombardment elsewhere in Syria, includ- Interest in Nelson Mandela International Day posters. A group of young South African Jamo’s wife, who was with him when he was ing the divided northern city of Aleppo and on has ignited as a result of the former South designers created a poster project to offer a shot but was not hurt, said on Hezbollah’s Al- Stray bullets the outskirts of the capital Damascus. Syrian African president’s hospitalization in Pretoria global perspective of Mandela with submis- Manar television channel that officials from A Turkish man and a 15-year-old boy were artillery hit the eastern Damascus district of Ain and people find ways to honor his ideals. sions from around the world. The group whit- Syria’s ruling Baath party had called her hus- killed in the Turkish border town of Ceylanpinar Terma, where rebels have managed to get a A Johannesburg-based foundation named tled down 700 posters submitted by design- after Mandela and numerous other groups ers from more than 70 countries, to 95 for band on Tuesday and warned him to be careful. by stray bullets from the fighting, Turkish securi- foothold on the fringes of the government-con- have asked people to volunteer 67 minutes to each day of Mandela’s life. —AP The same day a Hezbollah security official was ty sources and health officials said. The Turkish trolled city centre. —Reuters S African school with zero pass rate an omen of crisis

BAYSWATER: Despite South Africa’s position as the conti- nent’s largest economy, its public education system is in a dire state. One secondary school in the country’s rural north shows just how dire. Inside the yard of Alapha Secondary School in Limpopo province, stray donkeys roam between two class- room blocks. Windows are broken and the stench emanating from the pit latrines hangs thick in the air. There is little shade or airconditioning to offer respite from the brutal heat. Academically, things don’t get much better. At the end of the 2012 school year not one of Alapha’s 20 pupils sitting their final high school exams passed. Like many rural schools across the country, Alapha magnifies the failings of the country’s public education system, which has been ranked among the worst in the world. Despite education receiving the largest share of the national budget-232.5 billion rand (17.9 billion euros, $23.4 billion) for education, sport and cul- ture this year-Alapha has no library and no lab equipment to teach subjects like physics, chemistry or biology. Mismanagement also plays its role in the lack of teaching aids. Limpopo was the province most severely hit by the gov- ernment’s recent failure to supply textbooks for an entire aca- demic year. “We just listen and visualise,” said Desiree Mathekga, one of the 30 learners tackling her final exams this year.”It is hard, but this is all we have, we just have to study hard with what we have.” Limpopo education department spokesman Pat Kgomo admits Alapha’s situation is “cause for concern, but not unique”. Four other schools in the province also saw a zero- percent pass rate in 2012. The government blames part of the problem on its inability to attract teachers, despite a 25-per- cent unemployment rate. “Schools in rural areas tend to per- form badly because few teachers are willing to work in far- flung areas,” said Kgomo. School principal Jonas Ramapuputla said teachers who are there are overworked. “Even myself I have very little time to manage the school, I have to roll up my sleeves and teach,” he said. All this takes its toll. The World Economic Forum recently ranked South Africa second from last in the world for math and science education, just ahead of Yemen. The central gov- ernment has acknowledged that “the quality of school educa- tion for black people is poor” across the country. —AFP THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 INTERNATIONAL US surveillance becomes election issue in Germany German military knew about PRISM

BERLIN: Allegations of widespread Wahlen group for ZDF television said US data surveillance have created they thought the German govern- turbulence for Angela Merkel on ment knew of widespread U.S. sur- what looked like a smooth cruise to a veillance. However, the same poll third term as German chancellor, found that 62 percent would prefer even though it remains to be seen Merkel as chancellor, with only 29 whether the flap will threaten her percent for Steinbrueck. And it seriously. Merkel’s center-left oppo- showed her current center-right coali- nents have seized on disclosures of tion close to a parliamentary majority, National Security Agency surveil- with Merkel’s conservative Union bloc lance programs by leaker Edward enjoying a 15-point lead over Snowden to assert that she hasn’t Steinbrueck’s Social Democrats. been doing enough to confront The poll of 1,338 people had a Washington and protect Germans’ margin of sampling error of plus or LONDON: Royal supporter John Loughrey poses with his royal baby memora- personal data - and to cast doubt on minus three percentage points. bilia as he waits across the street from St Mary’s Hospital exclusive Lindo officials’ assertions that they didn’t Peppered with questions about Wing yesterday. —AP know of the programs. surveillance in a television interview The opposition apparently hopes Sunday, Merkel responded with a that the issue will breathe life into a combination of tough talk and a Come on, Kate: Queen urges so-far stumbling and gaffe-prone tried-and-tested calm, methodical campaign for Sept. 22 parliamentary approach. She didn’t respond directly royal baby to get a move on elections. A healthy economy, low to Steinbrueck’s attacks, a tactic that unemployment and perceptions that has served her well with voters - and LONDON: Queen Elizabeth II, it seems, is be heading off to her private Balmoral Merkel has managed Europe’s debt frustrated rivals - since she took office just as impatient as her subjects for the roy- estate in Scotland, where she traditionally crisis well have bolstered the chan- eight years ago. al baby to arrive this week-because she is spends her summer holiday. cellor. She said Germany expects “a clear going on holiday. “I would very much like it The monarch is due to visit Lord’s cricket Merkel’s center-left challenger, commitment from the American gov- to arrive. I’m going on holiday soon. No ground in London on Thursday, to watch Peer Steinbrueck, is suggesting that ernment for the future that they will sign yet,” the 87-year-old said in a light- part of the first day of the second Ashes the government turned a blind eye keep to German law on German soil.” hearted exchange with children, during a Test match between England and Australia, to violations of Germans’ rights and She added, however, that she has no visit to the Lake District national park in and will hold a reception next Tuesday, but that Merkel violated her oath of evidence at this point that it hasn’t northwest England. Asked by a youngster if then her diary is clear until September. The office, in which she swore to “keep done so in the past and that she wanted the first child of her grandson baby is due to be born at St Mary’s Hospital damage from” her people. The gov- Friedrich’s visit “can only be a first Prince William and his wife Catherine to be in Paddington, west London, where the ernment, opposition Green party step” in a dialogue with the US. a boy or a girl, she replied: “I don’t think I world’s media have been camped out for leader Juergen Trittin said, is acting BERLIN: German Chancellor Angela Merkel attends the ARD Merkel also called for tougher mind!” the past fortnight. “like the famous three monkeys: hear (German public broadcaster) Summer Interview with Ulrich European and global rules on data Royal aides have said the couple do not William’s step-mother Camilla, the sec- no evil, speak no evil and definitely Deppendorf and Rainald Becker (unseen) in this photo. —AP protection, and said the U.S. has know the gender of their baby, which is ond wife of his father Prince Charles, said see no evil.” pledged to declassify some docu- due in “mid-July”. An impending change in on Monday that she hoped the baby would His party called for Germany to officials to say that if true, that would five attacks in Germany. Friedrich’s ments. Friedrich defended his talks in the law would mean that for the first time be born by the end of this week. “We are all take in Snowden. Merkel’s govern- be unacceptable, especially since the defense of surveillance programs Washington, telling ARD television in history, if the baby is a girl she could not just waiting by the telephone,” she told an ment, like many others, rejected his Cold War is over. Germany hosted prompted opponents to turn up the that “all this talking and muscle-flex- be overtaken in the line of succession by audience in Cornwall, southwest England. asylum request. Protecting personal major NSA sites during the Cold War. heat, charging that he returned emp- ing” on the issue “is nonsense.” “We any younger brothers. A palace spokes- “We are hopeful that by the end of the data is generally a more sensitive Merkel, who grew up in communist ty-handed after promising to secure have to find a joint way forward.” he woman confirmed the queen would soon week he or she will be here.” —AFP issue in Europe than in the US - and East Germany, dispatched her interior information from the Americans. said. “The Americans know our sensi- particularly in Germany, not least minister, Hans-Peter Friedrich, to Steinbrueck told the Bild am Sonntag tivities. They are ready to clear things because of memories of surveillance Washington last week to discuss the newspaper that the German minister up and, of course, we must draw our and repression by communist East spying issue. There, he conferred with was “fobbed off with a few inconse- own lines.” Germany’s secret police, the Stasi, and Attorney General Eric Holder and had quential comments and alleged con- Manfred Guellner, the head of the Nazis’ Gestapo. an unscheduled meeting with Vice cessions.” Forsa, another polling agency, said he When President Barack Obama President Joe Biden. The opposition is also asking what believes the fallout for the chancellor visited Berlin June 19, Merkel offered After those meetings Friday, Germany’s own intelligence services from the issue will be “absolutely min- cautious public criticism, saying that a Friedrich told German television that knew about the programs. Germany’s imal, because there is nothing that “balance” between national security PRISM, the secret US program foreign intelligence service is ulti- can be hung on Merkel alone.” and data protection must be ensured. described by Snowden, searches in a mately supervised by Merkel’s chief of “People from all parties ... either knew Then, the German weekly Der Spiegel “very targeted” way for terrorism- staff, Ronald Pofalla. Some 79 percent about it or didn’t,” he added, noting reported that the US bugged related information and that the NSA of Germans surveyed in a July 9-11 that Steinbrueck’s party was in gov- European Union offices prompting says its information helped prevent poll by the Forschungsgruppe ernment until 2009. —AP Bouteflika return Papal visit is a raises questions blessing for Rio slum dwellers on Algeria’s future RIO DE JANEIRO: For residents of Varginha, a small slum in northern Rio, Pope Francis’ visit next week is a blessing ALGIERS: Algerian President Abdelaziz The daily is generally critical of the 76-year-old that is shining the global spotlight on their impoverished Bouteflika’s return home after almost three head of state who has been in power for 14 years. community. “Here, nobody cares about us. We suffer a months in hospital in Paris raises questions about Bouteflika’s fragile health has weakened his lot,” says Sonia Curato, a 47-year-old Catholic and mani- his ability to complete the last nine months of his chances of standing for a fourth presidential curist. “The pope is a holy man and this will help us. We term, commentators say. In a brief video broad- term, although his supporters have still not ruled need more programs for the children.” Her narrow house cast on state television on Tuesday, Bouteflika it out. During his hospital stay in Paris, he was stands at the entrance of the favela, next to the tiny Sao appeared pale and tense as he was seen meeting credited with taking policy decisions and sending Jeromino Emiliani church where Pope Francis is to bless his inner circle of officials. Their discussion was messages to several countries. Bouteflika “never the altar before addressing an expected crowd of around inaudible, apart from one point when the presi- ceased exercising the functions of office”, the dai- 30,000 on a nearby soccer field during his July 25 visit. dent, who had spent 80 days in France after a ly L’Expression wrote yesterday. For the occasion, sidewalks along the main street of mini-stroke, made an effort to say “inshallah” (God But he still needs to sign a supplementary this community of 1,000 people have just been repaved willing). It was almost a repetition of footage from budget law for 2013 and manage other key with asphalt. Located in an area known as the “Gaza Strip” June 11 in which he was seen receiving Prime affairs of state. And he also has to implement because of the frequent and violent clashes between Minister Abdelmalek Sellal and army chief political reforms launched in the wake of the armed drug gangs and police, Varginha was brought General Ahmed Gaid Salah in the Paris hospital. Arab Spring, changes that the opposition has under police control seven months ago. But residents say The earlier broadcast sparked a wave of deemed not to go far enough. Ongoing constitu- drug gangs have not left and are just lying low. Since rumours about Bouteflika’s health instead of reas- tional reforms also appear to have been put on 2008 and ahead of next year’s World Cup and the 2016 suring the public and the Algerian media. His the back-burner during his absence. Olympics, authorities have scrambled to restore security health has been a source of constant speculation The head of French-language daily Liberte, in shantytowns which had been under the sway of nar- in Algeria, where little has been revealed about Outoudert Abrous, wrote in an editorial that in co-traffickers for decades. But usually international the condition of the man who has ruled the May 2012 Bouteflika “himself said his generation celebrities-politicians, sports, movie or showbusiness country since 1999. On Wednesday, the media will pass the torch to the post-independence stars flock to the biggest favelas overlooking the city’s reaction was similar to last month’s hospital generation. But he failed to lead by example. He posh districts with their breathtaking views on the footage-with speculation about both his own did not follow his words with deeds.” Political ocean. In 1980, then Pope John Paul II toured the Vidigal and the country’s future. All newspapers carried a commentator Kamel Daoud, writing in the favela, with its stunning view on famed Ipanema beach. This image courtesy of Rolling Stone magazine shows the August 1, 2013 cover. presidency statement reporting his return after French-language Quotidien d’Oran, was even For Father Marcio Queiroz, the local priest, the choice Rolling Stone magazine’s decision to put Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, the accused foreign news networks announced his rather dis- more direct. He said the president’s lengthy hos- of Varginha for the papal visit fits with the new pontiff’s Boston Marathon bomber, on the cover of its latest issue has ignited a firestorm creet departure from Paris on Tuesday. His office pitalisation appeared to have exhausted him humility and emphasis on the poor. “Perhaps he identi- of outrage online. The cover picture is one that Tsarnaev himself posted online said that Bouteflika “will continue to rest and completely. Daoud said Algeria has discovered fies strongly with this favela, a small poor community,” he undergo therapy”, but did not say for how long. during his absence that “Bouteflika was not nec- and has been published widely by other media outlets in the past. —AFP added. “Pope Francis will walk the 200 meters (yard) that Some media commentators said what many essary, but change is necessary”. A fierce critic of separate the church from the soccer field. On the way he were thinking. “Will he perform his duties?” asked the Algerian political system, Daoud believes the will stop to chat with eight residents, like a father who the evening papers Le Soir d’Algerie and El head of state’s return will not change anything. visits his children,” said 42-year-old Everaldo Oliveira, who Driving somewhere? There’s Watan. “While it is clear that Bouteflika will not “Nothing, except how to kill time until the next is in charge of the welcome reception. put his name forward for a fourth term, is he presidential election. The man will gain time, the a government record of that capable of remaining president until his current country will lose it, and this suits a controlled Evangelicals open their doors mandate” expires in April 2014, asked El Watan. transition,” he wrote. —AFP The local population is roughly equally divided WASHINGTON: Chances are, your local or state a crime. Law enforcement officials said the scanners between Catholics and Evangelical protestants. But while police departments have photographs of your car in can be crucial to tracking suspicious cars, aiding Catholics have only one church plus an unfinished small their files, noting where you were driving on a par- drug busts and finding abducted children. License Czech govt rejects chapel, Neo-Pentecostal Christians have four temples. As ticular day, even if you never did anything wrong. plate scanners also can be efficient. The state of in many other favelas in Brazil, evangelicals have been Using automated scanners, law enforcement agen- Maryland told the ACLU that troopers could “main- making spectacular inroads in Varginha over the past few cies across the country have amassed millions of dig- tain a normal patrol stance” while capturing up to early election plan years. With the papal visit, the Vatican aims to bolster the ital records on the location and movement of every 7,000 license plate images in a single eight hour Catholic faith. Evangelicals represent 22.2 percent of vehicle with a license plate, according to a study shift. “At a time of fiscal and budget constraints, we PRAGUE: The Czech lower house of parliament crisis,” centre-left Social Democrat party leader Brazil’s 194-milllion-strong population, up from 15.4 per- published Wednesday by the American Civil need better assistance for law enforcement,” said rejected a motion yesterday to dissolve itself Bohuslav Sobotka told the lower house. cent in 2000, while the percentage of Catholics has Liberties Union. Affixed to police cars, bridges or Harvey Eisenberg, chief of the national security sec- and force an early election in September, setting But the former ruling centre-right still dropped from 74 percent to 64.6 percent during the buildings, the scanners capture images of passing or tion and assistant US attorney in Maryland. Law up more months of political uncertainty. The demands that the president give it another shot same period. But Varginha evangelicals plan to welcome parked vehicles and note their location, uploading enforcement officials also point out that the technol- motion was proposed by the centre-left Social at forming a government. “There is a majority in the pope with open arms as well. “He is different. He is that information into police databases. Departments ogy is legal in most cases, automating a practice Democrats after leftist President Milos Zeman this house that can form a government and showing humillty toward the poor, just like Jesus Christ,” keep the records for weeks or years, sometimes that’s been done for years. The ACLU found that only picked his long-time ally, Jiri Rusnok, last month approve its budget,” said Miroslav Kalousek, for- said Rogerio, a pastor of the Assembly of God church indefinitely. five states have laws governing license plate readers. to lead a new government against the will of the mer finance minister and deputy chairman of who cares for local crack addicts. “I am thrilled to wel- As the technology becomes cheaper and more New Hampshire, for example, bans the technology main political parties. the conservative TOP09. Previous centre-right come the pope in my house, There will be a positive fall- ubiquitous, and federal grants focus on aiding local except in narrow circumstances, while Maine and But there were only 96 votes in favour, short Prime Minister Petr Necas resigned last month out, opportunities that we could not have had before,” he terrorist detection, even small police agencies are Arkansas limit how long plate information can be of the 120 needed to dissolve the 200-seat low- after a close aide was charged with bribery and added. able to deploy more sophisticated surveillance sys- stored. er house, as centre-right parties rejected the illegal spying. However, the Supreme Court Most Catholics say they dream of getting as close as tems. While the Supreme Court ruled in 2012 that a “There’s no expectation of privacy” for a vehicle idea in the hope that they might yet be able to dealt the investigation a serious blow on possible to the pontiff and receiving his blessing. “I will judge’s approval is needed to track a car with GPS, driving on a public road or parked in a public place, form a new government themselves. The clash Tuesday. try to get close to him. I will ask him to bless all Brazilians, networks of plate scanners allow police effectively to said Lt. Bill Hedgpeth, a spokesman for the Mesquite between Czech parties and the president is to ask for peace for us all because violence is still wide- track a driver’s location, sometimes several times Police Department in Texas, which has records threatening gridlock in policymaking, which Standoff may last for months spread, and also for a deeper faith in the hearts of peo- every day, with few legal restrictions. The ACLU says stretching back to 2008, although the city plans next could hold up a 2014 budget plan and rattle Rusnok, who was finance minister in a Zeman- ple,” said 76-year-old Ana de Souza. Antonio de Sa, a 68- the scanners assemble what it calls a “single, high- month to begin deleting files older than two years. international investors, who have long viewed led administration a decade ago, faces a confi- year-old who runs a small cafe opposite the church, com- resolution image of our lives.” “It’s just a vehicle. It’s just a license plate.” In Yonkers, the EU country of 10.5 million as a safe haven. dence vote early next month that he is likely to plains that he won’t be able to open the day the pope “There’s just a fundamental question of whether NY, just north of the Bronx, police said retaining the Parties on both right and left say Zeman is lose, although some leftist politicians have started visits. “It would have been a good day to make money,” we’re going to live in a society where these dragnet information indefinitely helps detectives solve future defying constitutional conventions, but they dif- to warm to him. Zeman would then need to said the devout Catholic, who named his cafe “Varginha surveillance systems become routine,” said Catherine crimes. In a statement, the department said it uses fer on how to respond. “Only a new election appoint another prime minister. If that one fails as Relic”. “Why this name? I am a relic. I am one of the oldest Crump, a staff attorney with the ACLU. The civil license plate readers as a “reactive investigative tool” would give a chance to take the country out of well, the third nomination would be done by the local residents,” he explained. —AFP rights group is proposing that police departments that is only accessed if detectives are looking for a its long-lasting and deep economic and political head of parliament, a Civic Democrat. —Reuters immediately delete any records of cars not linked to particular vehicle in connection to a crime. —AP INTERNATIONAL THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 Russia’s Putin puts US ties above Snowden

CHITA: President Vladimir Putin gave his clearest does not uphold at home. But Putin wants the request for temporary asylum said yesterday he Kucherena said on Tuesday that Snowden had signal yet that he will not let a dispute over the summit with Obama to go ahead and both coun- expects Snowden will soon be able to leave given him a verbal promise that he would stop fate of former US spy contractor Edward Snowden tries have signalled they want better relations, Sheremetyevo airport, where he has remained in anti-US activities. But a human rights activist who derail Russia’s relations with the United States. strained by issues ranging from the Syrian conflict the transit zone since his arrival from Hong Kong attended a meeting with Snowden on Friday said Snowden, who is wanted by Washington for leak- to Putin’s treatment of opponents since he started on June 23. Anatoly Kucherena told Reuters he the American did not regard his leaks as harmful ing details of US intelligence programs, is seeking a six-year third term in 2012. believed the American would be able to leave the to his home country. Snowden has said that he temporary asylum in Russia after spending more transit zone, which Moscow considers neutral ter- was acting in US interests, not against them. than three weeks at a Moscow airport trying to fly Unwelcome guest ritory, within a week, and indicated he expected Snowden, 30, says the United States has pre- to a country that will shelter him. A Russian lawyer helping Snowden with his him to stay in Russia for the time being. vented him from flying to Latin America - where Allowing the American to stay in Russia even Nicaragua, Bolivia and Venezuela have offered temporarily would upset Washington. But a him refuge - by putting pressure on other coun- refusal would open Putin to criticism at home that tries not to help him escape US justice. Putin has he has not stood up to Moscow’s former Cold War also accused the United States of trapping enemy, even though he has refused to extradite Snowden, but Russia has kept the former contrac- Snowden. Asked during a visit to the eastern tor at arm’s length by saying it regards the transit Siberian town of Chita whether the affair would area between the runway and passport control as cast a shadow over a US-Russia summit due in neutral territory. September in Moscow, Putin told reporters yester- “Mr Snowden, as I understand it, never intend- day: ed to stay here, in Russia, forever. He has even said “Bilateral relations, in my opinion, are far more so himself,” Putin said. He added that he did not important than squabbles about the activities of know what Snowden’s long-term plans were and the secret services.” Putin did not say whether said: “It is his fate and his choice.” Putin said rights Russia would grant Snowden’s temporary asylum advocates knew they could face certain costs for request, but made clear he was still insisting the their activities, and it often became particularly American must agree to do nothing to harm the “complicated” if they criticised the United States. United States. “The example with the Bolivian president’s “We warned Mr Snowden that any action by plane showed this,” he said, referring to a decision him that could cause damage to Russian- by four U.S. allies in Europe to prevent Evo American relations is unacceptable for us,” Putin Morales’ plane entering their airspace this month said. Russia would take an independent decision because they thought Snowden was on board. when deciding on Snowden’s fate, but maintain- President Barack Obama’s administration on ing relations with Washington was also a “national Tuesday repeated its call for Russia to send objective”, the president added. Snowden back to the United States. “He is not a Snowden is useful as a propaganda tool for MOSCOW: Picture released by Human Rights Watch shows US National Security Agency (NSA) fugi- human rights activist, he is not a dissident. He is Putin, who accuses the US government of preach- tive leaker Edward Snowden (center) during a meeting with rights activists, with among them Sarah accused of leaking classified information,” White ing to the world about rights and freedoms it Harrison of WikiLeaks (left), at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport. — AFP House spokesman Jay Carney said. — Reuters US questions self-defense rules after teen’s killing More protests planned over Zimmerman verdict

WASHINGTON: US Attorney General Eric Holder has urged a rethink of “stand-your-ground” self-defense laws following the acquittal of a neighborhood watch volunteer who fatally shot an unarmed black teenager in Florida. Addressing the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Holder acknowledged the anger stirred by the racially-laced trial of George Zimmerman, found not guilty Saturday of murdering Trayvon Martin. “Separate and apart from the case that has drawn the nation’s attention, it’s time to question WASHINGTON: In this file photo, Liz Cheney addresses the Conservative Political laws that senselessly expand the concept of self- Action Conference. — AP defense and sow dangerous conflict in our neigh- borhoods,” Holder said on Tuesday. “These laws try Liz Cheney’s challenge to to fix something that was never broken. There has always been a legal defense for using deadly force if- and the ‘if’ is important-no safe retreat is available.” Enzi echoes GOP divisions Zimmerman’s trial lawyers did not explicitly invoke Florida’s stand-your-ground law, arguing CHEYENNE: Liz Cheney says her GOP primary ing low taxes as a “force for good in terms of instead that he acted in self-defense in a confronta- challenge to Wyoming’s senior US senator is getting people focused on fiscal issues.” Liz tion with Martin in February last year. But the case about sending a “new generation” to Cheney, 46, is the older of Dick Cheney’s two has stirred up controversy around such laws, present LOS ANGELES: Protestors angry at the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the death of black Washington. But it has all the hallmarks of the children, both daughters. Married with five in some 30 states, which assert that citizens can use teen Trayvon Martin march through the streets of downtown Los Angeles, California July 16, same divisions that have roiled the children, she was a resident of Virginia until lethal force-rather than retreat-if they sense their 2013. — AFP Republican Party nationally for years. While recently. She and her husband bought a home lives are threatened, wherever they might be. he’s no moderate, incumbent Sen Mike Enzi last year in the posh northwest Wyoming The trial’s outcome has reverberated this week ers led by civil rights firebrand Reverend Al Sharpton necessary for our jury to be sequestered in order to has shown he is willing to compromise occa- community of Jackson Hole. with a string of protests around the country and one announcing protest rallies Saturday in more than protest our verdict from unfair outside influence, but sionally with Democrats, such as when he Asked why voters should oust Enzi, a pow- juror, known as B-37, appearing on television to dis- 100 cities. “People all over the country will gather to that isolation shielded me from the depth of pain supported a sales tax on Internet purchases. erful incumbent, in favor of a rookie, Liz cuss the case. Four other jurors late Tuesday, howev- show that we are not having a two- or three-day that exists among the general public over every But Cheney, the elder daughter of former Cheney said seniority isn’t necessarily an er, issued a statement seeking privacy. Holder said anger fit,” Sharpton told reporters outside Justice aspect of this case,” said the woman. Vice President Dick Cheney, suggests that attribute. “I think that part of the problem in earlier that “by allowing and perhaps encouraging Department headquarters in Washington. “This is a Civil rights leaders said Tuesday they are plan- such compromise often isn’t good enough for Washington today is seniority,” she told The violent situations to escalate in public,” stand-your- social movement for justice.” Pop music icon Stevie ning vigils and rallies in 100 US cities this weekend a true conservative. “I’m running because I’m Associated Press in a telephone interview. “I ground laws undermine public safety. Wonder, at a weekend concert in Canada, declared to press the federal government to bring charges concerned about the direction of the nation,” think it’s time for a new generation, for a new “The list of resulting tragedies is long and unfor- he would refuse to perform in Florida or any other against a former-neighborhood watch volunteer Liz Cheney said Tuesday. “I think it’s time for us generation to come to the fore. I don’t see tunately has victimized too many who are innocent,” state with a stand-your-ground law, the Hollywood acquitted in the killing of an unarmed black teenag- to say to ourselves, ‘Can we continue to go seniority as a plus, frankly.” Holder added. Critics of the verdict from the six- Reporter showbiz industry journal said. In Los er. George Zimmerman had been charged with sec- along to get along in Washington?’” Enzi announced he would seek re-election woman and mostly white jury argue that Angeles, police chief Charlie Beck vowed Tuesday to ond-degree murder in the fatal shooting of 17-year- Several Republicans senators elsewhere Tuesday, more than six months earlier in the Zimmerman had racially profiled Martin-who had clamp down harder on protests over the outcome of old Trayvon Martin last year, but a jury of six women have faced tea party challengers questioning political cycle than he has declared his bid in no criminal record-and was able to kill him with the Martin trial, after 14 people were arrested on a found him not guilty of that charge as well as the their conservative credentials. In Indiana, six- the past. “Working behind the scenes - this is impunity because of a biased criminal justice sys- second night of violence. In Houston, police on lesser charge of manslaughter. “People all across the term Sen. Richard Lugar lost in a Republican what I have been doing since I was elected, tem. Holder, who spoke at the NAACP national horseback watched from the sidelines Tuesday as country will gather to show that we are not having a primary last year to Richard Mourdock, who and this is what needs to be done,” Enzi said meeting in Orlando, Florida, not far from where protesters marched outside the city’s downtown two- or three-day anger fit. This is a social move- went on to lose to Democrat Joe Donnelly. In by email through a spokesman. Martin died, remained non-committal on whether federal court house, the Houston Chronicle newspa- ment for justice,” Rev Al Sharpton said as he Utah, tea party favorite Sen. Mike Lee ousted He immediately won the endorsement of the Justice Department might pursue Zimmerman per reported on its website. announced the plan outside the Justice Department three-term incumbent Sen. colleagues in the Senate, including the on civil rights grounds, noting that “an open investi- Juror B-37 meanwhile scrapped controversial in Washington, DC. The rallies and vigils will occur in Bob Bennett in 2010. And Sen. Orrin Hatch National Republican Senatorial Committee. gation” into the case was ongoing. plans to write a book about the Zimmerman trial, front of federal court buildings at noon Saturday in fended off a tea party challenger to win a sev- “Our support will be there for Mike,” said the Pressure grew Tuesday for Zimmerman to face explaining Tuesday that she had not been aware of cities including Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia enth term last year. The winner of Wyoming’s committee’s chairman, Republican Sen Jerry civil proceedings, with African-American faith lead- how deeply it had aroused passions. “I realize it was and New York. —Agencies Republican primary just over a year from now Moran of Kansas. The other two members of will be a heavy favorite to win the general Wyoming’s congressional delegation, both election. Registered Republicans outnumber Republicans, came out quickly in support of Democrats in Wyoming by a margin of more Enzi. Sen. John Barrasso and Rep. Cynthia than 3 to 1. Wyoming hasn’t had a Democrat Lummis praised Enzi for his long service and in its congressional delegation since 1979, the knowledge of Wyoming issues. year Dick Cheney succeeded retiring The race promises to be hard-fought. Enzi Democratic Rep. Teno Roncalio to take the has had few serious Democratic challengers - state’s lone US House seat. much less Republican ones - since he was first Challenging any incumbent is a brazen elected to the Senate in 1996. He remains move in Wyoming. At least until now, the state well-liked around the state as an affable for- has shown considerable deference to those mer shoe salesman and mayor of the coal- established in office. mining city of Gillette. Enzi, 69, takes pride in Liz Cheney described herself as a tea party keeping a lower profile and remaining much sympathizer. She called the movement favor- less partisan than most of his colleagues. —AP

California wildfire burns 7 homes IDYLLWILD: A wildfire in mountains west of size, but it was not assessed until later in the Palm Springs burned seven homes and led day. “Honestly, we thought that the struc- to the evacuation of dozens more, officials ture destruction was greater than it is,” said. The blaze destroyed three houses, Forest Service spokesman John Miller said. damaged another and destroyed three Miller said officials were especially sur- mobile homes, a cabin, a garage and about prised that the Zen Mountain Center sur- a half-dozen vehicles, the US Forest Service vived, and credited firefighters. “We really said in a statement Tuesday. thought it was gone,” Miller told the Riverside The wildfire started Monday between Press-Enterprise. “The crews hung on and Palm Springs and Hemet, near the rural saved it.” About 50 homes were evacuated Riverside County community of Mountain along with Camp Ronald McDonald, which Center, and a day later had surged to about hosts programs for children with cancer and 14 square miles. More than 2,200 firefighters their families. The fire also led authorities to and 25 aircraft had the blaze 10 percent con- close a pair of state highways and the Pacific tained. It was mostly moving east toward Crest Trail. A public pool about 20 miles away the desert and away from small communi- in Indio was closed because of ash falling on ties of homes, summer cabins and ranches the water. The fire raged in thick brush and in the San Jacinto mountains. But a shift in trees at an elevation of 5,000 to 7,500 feet, the wind could easily sweep it back toward sending flames 100 feet high. Some of the homes, authorities said. area had not burned in 35 years and the veg- “It’s a rapidly changing animal,” Forest etation was dried out, Beyer said. “We only Service spokesman Lee Beyer said. Most of had 40 to 50 percent of normal precipitation” the damage occurred late Monday and early over the winter and no rain at all since early Tuesday as the fire more than doubled in April, he said. — AP THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 INTERNATIONAL A look at N Korea’s weapons business

SEOUL: There’s a long list of countries um-range missiles, but the market for full arms seizures and inspections that provide were headed for Iran, a major North in 1999 and 2000, missile parts and known to have done weapons business missile systems is thought to have dried an idea of who’s in the market for Korean missile and weapons client. In components were found to be on their with North Korea, but this week’s revela- up in recent years. That’s partly because of Pyongyang’s goods. It is based on UN October 2007, propellant blocks that way to Libya. In 1996, artillery rockets tion that Cuba sent it missile parts and international pressure and sanctions ban- reports and a 2011 study by arms control could be used to power Scud missiles and Scud missile components were weapons on a ship stopped by Panama ning weapons exports that followed expert Joshua Pollack, who has compiled were seized from a ship heading to Syria, reportedly found in Switzerland and has puzzled some analysts. North Korea North Korea’s three nuclear tests since public reports on seizures and inspection: according to a report by a 2012 UN bound for Egypt. and Cuba share similar anti-US ideologies, 2006 and a string of long-range rocket expert panel. and Havana hosted a senior North Korean launches. Sales may have also suffered MIDDLE EAST MYANMAR military delegation less than a month ago, because of the poor-quality, Soviet-type Late last year, UN diplomats reported AFRICA Washington says one of the contracts but the countries aren’t seen as major weaponry that Pyongyang has traditional- that 445 North Korean-made graphite Pyongyang has tried also to sell between Myanmar’s former ruling junta weapons business partners. Cuba said ly produced. Since the 1990s, analysts say, cylinders, capable of being used to pro- shorter-range missiles and Soviet-vin- and North Korea was for Pyongyang to Panama seized obsolete weaponry that Pyongyang has been favoring exports of duce ballistic missiles, were seized in May tage rockets and guns to customers in help Myanmar build medium-range, liq- Havana had sent to be repaired. conventional weapons and the equipment from a Chinese freighter ship at the Africa. There have been reports in recent uid-fueled ballistic missiles. In June 2009, North Korea has a long history of and components that are used in missile South Korean port of Busan on their way years of seizures of shipments heading Japan’s Daily Yomiuri newspaper reported aggressively buying, marketing and sell- production assembly lines. North Korea to Syria. In December 2009, Thailand to Eritrea, Republic of Congo and three arrests over an alleged attempt, on ing arms around the world, especially in cannot export heavy arms or material relat- intercepted a charter jet from Pyongyang Burundi. In November 2009, tank parts instructions from North Korea, to illegally developing countries in the Middle East, ed to nuclear weapons or missiles under carrying 35 tons of conventional and equipment bound for the Republic export to Myanmar a magnetic measuring Africa and Southeast Asia. Much of that UN Security Council sanctions. Here is a weapons, including surface-to-air mis- of Congo were reportedly found in device believed necessary for long-range business was in sales of short- and medi- look at some high-profile North Korean siles. Thai authorities reported that they South Africa. In three separate incidents ballistic missiles. —AP Seoul hails seizure of N Korean weapons ship Arms found ‘obsolete’: Cuba

SEOUL: South Korea yesterday wel- appeared to be missile parts banned various MiG-21 aircraft parts and 15 announcement. “It’s hard to under- comed the seizure off Panama of a under UN resolutions. Panama said plane motors, “all of it manufactured in stand the North taking such high risks North Korean ship suspected of carry- Tuesday it had found military equip- the mid-20th century” and “to be just to repair another country’s missiles ing weapons and urged the United ment believed to be missiles concealed repaired and returned to Cuba”. at a time when it is under tight interna- Nations to take up the case. “The gov- in a cargo of sugar, after impounding Analysts in Seoul said the North, tional sanctions,” Lee said. UN sanctions ernment appreciates the Panamanian the ship and conducting a search for which successfully launched a long- bar the transport of all weapons to and government’s stoppage of a North drugs. It has urged UN inspectors to range rocket to put a satellite into orbit from North Korea apart from imports Korea vessel carrying a suspicious car- scrutinise the cargo, which could consti- last December, was fully capable of of small arms. Several of the country’s go,” the foreign ministry said in a state- tute a violation of the strict arms sanc- providing missile repair services for ships have been searched in recent years. In July 2009 a North Korean ship heading to Myanmar, the Kang Nam 1, was followed by the US Navy due to suspicions it was carrying weapons. It PARIS: French President Francois Hollande (left) welcomes Myanmar turned around and headed back President Thein Sein, upon his arrival for a meeting at the Elysee presiden- home. Defence and security consult- tial palace yesterday. —AFP ants IHS Jane’s said the ship stopped in Panama was carrying a radar that guides surface-to-air missiles to their Myanmar president in target. “IHS Jane’s has identified the equip- France for talks on ties ment shown in the images so far released as an RSN-75 ‘Fan Song’ fire PARIS: Myanmar President Thein Sein met press Thein Sein on the human rights situa- control radar for the SA-2 family of sur- his French counterpart Francois Hollande in tion in his country. “France must not let itself face-to-air missiles,” the group said in a Paris yesterday, as rights campaigners react- be guided solely by economic interests as statement. SA-2 missile systems date ed sceptically to his promise to free all politi- major French businesses such as Vinci from the Soviet era and include a long- cal prisoners. The former general, fresh from Bouygues, Total and Orange are in the range radar that detects targets on a three-day trip to London, is in Europe to process of negotiating contracts in approach and a fire control radar that build on support for introducing much-laud- Myanmar,” they wrote. guides missiles towards their target, ed reforms in the former pariah state. During In a protest timed with the visit, activists said Jeremy Binnie, an IHS expert. his first official visit to Britain, Thein Sein on from rights-group Avaaz dressed up as “One possibility is that Cuba could Monday promised that all prisoners of con- Hollande and Thein Sein made mock toasts be sending the system to North Korea science in Myanmar, formerly known as with a bottle of champagne before card- for an upgrade,” the group said. “In this Burma, would be freed by the end of the board graves and a banner reading: “Don’t case, it would likely be returned to year. let Burma become the next Rwanda”. Trade Cuba and the cargo of sugar could be a He also voiced optimism about ending between France and Myanmar remains at a payment for the services.” But it says a decades of conflict that have raged between modest level, with one diplomatic source second scenario could be that the fire the government and more than a dozen putting the figure at 18 million euros ($23 control radar equipment may have ethnic groups since independence from million) a year. COLON CITY: Panamanian workers stand atop sacks of sugar inside a container of a North been en route to North Korea to aug- Britain in 1948. Activists in Myanmar howev- French Minister of Foreign Trade Nicole Korean-flagged ship at the Manzanillo International container terminal on the coast of Colon ment Pyongyang’s air defence net- er have called for actions not words from Bricq is scheduled to visit Myanmar later this City, Panama. —AP work. Thein Sein, accusing the former junta pre- month. Development Minister Pascal Canfin The North has yet to comment on mier of using headline-grabbing amnesties travelled to the country in March. Thein Sein ment. “If the shipment turns out to be in tions imposed on North Korea over its other countries. “But we cannot rule the Panama incident. The impover- to secure foreign aid and investment. also met in Paris with representatives of the breach of UN resolutions, we expect the nuclear and missile programmes. out the possibility of North Korea ished country has for decades been Thein Sein met Hollande at the Elysee MEDEF employers’ union. Journalists were UN Security Council’s sanctions com- Cuba said the weapons found on importing parts for its own Soviet-era developing missiles with varying capa- Palace at 1300 GMT. No press conferences not invited to the meeting. Hollande had mittee to take relevant steps expedi- the ship were “obsolete” Soviet-era arms missiles”, Shin In-Kyun, president of the bilities. It said its launch last December were planned for after the meeting. “The said he was willing to host Thein Sein after tiously.” that it had sent to North Korea for private Korea Defence Network, told was designed only to put a peaceful president will express our desire that the rolling out the red carpet for Myanmar The ministry, however, declined to repair. It said the 240 tonnes of “obso- AFP. satellite into orbit. But the United process of transition continues, speeds up opposition leader and Nobel Peace laureate confirm a report by Yonhap news lete defensive weapons” included two Lee Ho-Ryung, an analyst with the Nations saw it as a covert test of ballis- and that the liberation of political prisoners Aung San Suu Kyi during her landmark visit agency that Panama informed Seoul anti-aircraft missile systems. There were Korea Institute for Defence Analyses, tic missile technology, which is banned comes about as quickly as possible,” said an to Paris in June 2012. that military equipment on the ship also “nine missiles in parts and spares”, said she was sceptical about Cuba’s under UN resolutions. —AFP Elysee spokesman. Since coming to power in 2011, Thein The resumption of visits by Red Cross Sein has sought to end his country’s isola- officials to the country’s prisons was a prom- tion with a series of political changes that ising development, the spokesman added. have won him international praise. He has China holds lawyer in But he said France remained concerned freed hundreds of political dissidents, eased about ongoing communal violence. media restrictions and welcomed Suu Kyi Buddhist-Muslim clashes in the western and her party into parliament. In response, state of Rakhine last year left about 200 peo- the European Union has scrapped most of increasing crackdown ple dead, mostly Rohingya Muslims who are its sanctions, except for an arms embargo, denied citizenship by Myanmar. Further and readmitted Myanmar to a preferential clashes have erupted in recent months. trade scheme. The United States has also lift- BEIJING: Chinese authorities have detained a well- out basis. China’s constitution guarantees the right A number of leading rights groups- ed most embargoes and foreign companies known rights lawyer in a move activists described to free speech,” he said. including the International Federation for are now eager to enter the resource-rich as the widening of a crackdown on individuals call- Meanwhile, more people are taking bold steps Human Rights (FIDH) and Reporters Without nation, with its perceived frontier market of ing for greater accountability to fight graft - even as toward exposing graft. On Wednesday, a reporter Borders-urged Hollande in a joint letter to some 60 million potential consumers. —AFP new accusations of official corruption surfaced. Xu for the official Xinhua News Agency, Wang Wenzhi, Zhiyong is the latest anti-graft campaigner to be publicly accused Song Lin, the chairman of China taken away after more than a dozen detentions Resources (Holdings) Company, a state-owned con- over the past few months have called into question glomerate, and other top executives of a power Japan PM Abe pays visit to the sincerity of China’s new leaders’ vows to scrub generating subsidiary of deliberately overpaying the Communist Party clean of graft. What’s clear, for an acquisition in 2010. The conglomerate post- however, is that the party’s anti-corruption promis- ed a statement on its website late Wednesday in island near disputed chain es could be encouraging more people to take bold response to Wang’s allegation, though without TOKYO: Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo gral part of Japan, historically and under steps to test the leadership’s resolve. In the latest referring to any of his claims explicitly. It said Abe yesterday visited coastguards who international law,” Abe said in Ishigaki later in instance, a reporter for China’s main state-run news reports and comments online about a deal involv- patrol waters around islands at the centre of the day. “We won’t budge one bit,” he said in agency on Wednesday launched a rare public accu- ing one of its subsidiaries and its leaders have a dispute with China, as election campaign- a stump speech. The visit comes just a few sation of corruption against a chairman of a state- included “a lot of conjecture, speculation and mali- ing stepped up a gear. Abe was in the days ahead of elections for half of the seats owned conglomerate. cious slander” that has affected the company and remote Okinawan island of Ishigaki in the in the upper house of parliament, which Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to strike its top executives’ reputations. East China Sea, 2,000 kilometres (1,240 observers expect to be a shoo-in for Abe’s hard against corruption, and a number of high- and Xu Zhiyong It said that the conglomerate has always operat- miles) southwest of Tokyo, where he told Liberal Democratic Party. low-level officials have since been investigated. But ed according to national laws and regulations and crews his resolve to stand up for Japan was Voters have warmed to his economic there are still no signs the party is willing to under- detention notice that police delivered to Xu’s wife acted in the interests of its shareholders and the undimmed. “The security environment for policies, although many remain wary of his take real institutional reforms that can fight corrup- on Tuesday night. The notice said Xu was detained public. China Resources, which reported a profit of our territorial waters has become increas- stance on issues including Japan’s warring tion, such as requiring officials and their families to Tuesday evening on suspicion of gathering people 41 billion Hong Kong dollars ($5.3 billion) last year, ingly serious, as Chinese government ships past and his intention to change the coun- declare how much money they have and what they to disturb order in a public place, he said. No details operates in sectors ranging from power supply and frequently sail to and roam around waters try’s pacifist constitution or strengthen its own. “Xu Zhiyong’s detention is likely part of the or causes were given to support the charge, which gas to real estate and medicine. The deal “led to the surrounding Senkaku islands,” Abe said in an armed forces. Since taking office in government’s ongoing crackdown on groups of is often used to punish people who speak out loss of several billions of yuan in state-owned address to about 40 coastguards. December, Abe has visited a number of for- activists across the country who publicly call for against abuses. assets,” Wang wrote on a post on his verified Senkaku is Japan’s name for islands it eign countries, but has stayed away from tougher and more systematic measures to fight Beijing police did not immediately answer faxed microblog on the popular site Sina Weibo. “Song Lin controls, but which China claims as the China, with whom relations remain more- corruption,” said Human Rights Watch researcher questions about Xu, while officers at Beijing’s No. 3 and other relevant top executives who took part in Diaoyus. “I very much appreciate your than-usually prickly. Maya Wang. “For calling for essentially the same Detention Center, where Xu was being held, said the acquisition have failed to do their duties and are efforts to patrol our territorial waters. I will Tensions have steadily risen between the things as President Xi Jinping, who vowed to bust they weren’t permitted to speak to the media. For suspected of corruption involving large sums of continue to take charge and defend our ter- two Asian giants, with China frequently graft, these activists are punished and detained.” his activism, Xu has frequently been taken away for money.” ritory, territorial waters and territorial air- sending official ships into waters around the She described Xu as being “very involved in the questioning or held under house arrest. Most The post was also carried on Xinhua’s website, space,” said Abe, who wore a blue Okinawan Tokyo-administered islands. Vessels from the movement and widely considered as the intellectu- recently, he had been held under house arrest since but both the report and microblog post were later shirt and a coastguard cap for the occasion. two countries have for months traded warn- al force behind it.” Xu’s view on asset declaration is April 12 after he signed a letter in support of other removed. Wang could not be reached through his Abe’s visit to Ishigaki, which lies less than ings over intrusions into what both regard hardly controversial and has also been advocated activists detained for campaigning for officials to microblog. Song’s position is equivalent to that of a 200 kilometres off the coast of Taiwan, was as their sovereign areas around the islands. by government academics and other anti-corrup- declare their assets. vice minister in the Chinese government, making the first by a sitting premier in 48 years, The long-standing dispute reignited last tion experts. But authorities appear to be wary that Three of those activists, based in the city of him among the most senior officials to have come national broadcaster NHK said. It comes as September when Tokyo nationalised three Xu is also advocating a movement urging Chinese Xinyu in eastern China, have been accused of illegal under scrutiny by efforts that appear to be inde- the dispute with Beijing over the sovereign- islands in the chain in what it said was a citizens to build a stronger civil society, which he assembly for taking photographs of themselves pendent of the party’s own anti-graft agency. In ty the uninhabited, but resource-rich islands mere administrative change of ownership terms a “New Citizens Movement,” and could be try- holding signs urging officials to disclose their May, authorities announced that an investigation further north continues to fester, with little from a private landowner. China insists the ing to stem its influence. finances and calling on Xi to end dictatorship. They had been launched into Liu Tienan, a powerful eco- sign of any improvement in sight. islands were part of its territory until Japan Wang Gongquan, a venture capitalist who is a could face trial at a later stage, said Zheng Jianwei, nomic planning official who had been accused of “The Senkakus are undoubtedly an inte- annexed them in 1895. —AFP close friend of Xu’s, said Wednesday that he saw a one of their lawyers. “The charge is absolutely with- corruption by a prominent journalist. —AP INTERNATIONAL THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 Karzai inks Afghan election reforms into law

KABUL: President Hamid Karzai yesterday approved by a panel. Afghanistan is due to hold a presidential panel will also nominate the head of the Independent for ensuring democratic elections and strengthening changes to the make-up of Afghanistan’s electoral election in April, at which Karzai will step down after Election Commission, responsible for administering the the foundations of Afghanistan’s young democracy”. complaints watchdog, removing foreign UN represen- serving a maximum two terms. Months later, the US- polls and previously appointed directly by Karzai. But Martine van Bijlert, co-director of the rival tatives before presidential polls next year. The changes led NATO combat mission against the Taliban is due to “I sign into effect the law for structures, authorities Afghanistan Analysts Network, said that while the new approved by MPs in parliament on Monday will howev- end. Donor nations have pressured the government to and duties of the elections commission and electoral nomination and selection procedure brings a sense of er keep in place the Election Complaints Commission pass a series of election laws, seen as crucial to proving complaints commission,” Karzai announced in a decree. transparency it does not guarantee independence. (ECC) that was integral to unmasking massive fraud at that the 12-year war and billions of dollars of aid mon- “This decree has come into effect after being signed,” “The actual decision whom to appoint stays with the the last presidential election in 2009. ey have not been in vain. Karzai has not yet signed into he added. In the 2009 presidential election, the president,” she told AFP by email. “There are many ways The government ordered last year that the commis- law another bill approved by parliament in May that Election Complaints Commission investigated thou- to play any appointments system or to gain influence sion be replaced by a special tribunal appointed direct- will determine how April’s election is run. But under sands of complaints, mostly related to alleged ballot- after people have been appointed-not just by the pres- ly by Karzai, raising fears from rights groups that it yesterday’s amendments, MPs say the Election rigging by Karzai supporters. ident but by all parties.” The new system makes it hard- would dilute efforts to clamp down on electoral abuse. Complaints Commission will retain full power to throw The watchdog ordered ballots from 210 polling sta- er for any party fully to control the appointment A 14-member commission of MPs on Monday out fraudulent votes, and it alone will have the power tions to be disqualified in a probe that ultimately process, but “does not make the process immune from approved keeping the ECC, but said it could no longer to announce the final election result. forced Karzai to accept a second-round run-off, which politicking or manipulation”, she added. It remains include two foreign UN representatives, bowing to a Members will be nominated by a selection commit- was abandoned when his opponent Abdullah unclear who will run for president. Among a long list of key Karzai demand. tee, which will include the speakers of both houses of Abdullah pulled out. Local think tank, Afghanistan possible candidates are Qayum Karzai, the president’s Instead its five members will all be Afghans, still parliament, the Supreme Court and human rights com- Analysis and Awareness, welcomed the reforms as an brother, Omar Daudzai, a former chief of staff, and war- appointed by Karzai but from a short list put forward mission, and a civil society representative. The same “important milestone in creating the right framework lord-turned-governor Atta Mohammad Noor. — AFP Delivering mail in Bangladesh Islamist oppn Kabul’s nameless streets KABUL: In Kabul, many streets have no name mission. The days of confusion over addresses leader gets death penalty and houses often have no number, meaning however could soon be over, as last month that postmen already braving the constant the communications ministry signed an threat of suicide bombings must play detec- agreement with the city authorities to create tive to deliver mail. Mohammad Rahim makes a comprehensive new address system. Police fire at irate Jamaat activists his rounds on the tattered, hilly streets of All streets and houses will be coded, num- Afghanistan’s capital riding an old bicycle. bered and mapped in a two-year project that After 10 years on the job he is undaunted by the government hopes to expand to other DHAKA: A Bangladesh court yesterday sentenced a even the vaguest addresses on letters. “Here cities. The scheme-which will use global posi- leading Islamist politician to death for war crimes we have a letter for a man who lives near tioning system (GPS) surveying-should help including murder, torture and kidnapping, as religious Doctor Hashmat’s house,” Rahim, 46, says. “I Rahim, and fellow postmen such as Khan hardliners imposed a nationwide strike over the ver- don’t know the address, so let’s see, how can dict. Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mujahid, 65, the second- we find the right place?” highest ranked official of the country’s largest Islamic His only clues are the addressee party, was found guilty of five of seven charges by the Mohammad Naeem, the doctor’s name and much-criticised International Crimes Tribunal. Mujahid instructions on the back of the envelope say- yelled “it’s injustice” and recited a verse from the Holy ing “Kart-e-Sakhi hilltop, behind the agricul- Quran as Justice Obaidul Hassan ordered him “hanged tural ministry”. Wearing a black fur hat, blue by the neck” after the verdict was read out to a packed jeans and a violet T-shirt, he cuts a familiar fig- courtroom in the capital Dhaka. ure and is often recognised by Kabul resi- The verdict is the second this week by the tribunal, dents. He sets off from the neighbourhood set up by the secular government in 2010, which has post office to start asking people for help. been hearing cases of alleged atrocities committed “Brother, can you tell me-where is Doctor during the 1971 war of independence against Hashmat’s house?” Rahim shouts at a shop- Pakistan. The spiritual leader of the Jamaat-e-Islami keeper. “Go up the hill, and turn right,” comes party, 90-year-old Ghulam Azam, was convicted on the reply, so Rahim sets off up the rocky road. Monday and sentenced to 90 years in prison for mas- Further on, another man tells him: “Turn right KABUL: In this photograph, Afghan terminding atrocities during the war. and it is the third house on the left.” After postman Mohammad Rahim sorts Violence erupted over that verdict, with five people waiting outside the gate, a woman in her 40s through letters as he prepares to killed when police clashed with Jamaat supporters, comes out: Mohammad Naeem’s wife, who leave his post office to deliver letters who imposed a nationwide strike from Monday. The trials have divided the country and sparked deadly takes the letter for her husband.”We have in the Kart-e-Sakhi neighbourhood of DHAKA: Bangladeshi activists shout slogans in celebration outside the International Crimes received letters from the US, Canada, Kabul. — AFP protests, with Jamaat supporters branding them a sham aimed at eliminating their leaders. Secularists Tribunal court in Dhaka yesterday after hearing the International Crimes Tribunal’s guilty ver- Germany and Pakistan, and the postman dict on Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mujahid. — AFP always brings them safely and on time,” she Agha, 42, who works in a post office in the have demanded the execution of all those accused. says. Rahim delivers dozens of letters every central Shar-e-Naw district. For now Agha, Unlike other such courts, the Bangladesh tribunal is ential leader in the 18-party opposition alliance. The notorious Al-Badr militia between October and day across west and southwest Kabul, a city who first started delivering mail 22 years ago, not endorsed by the United Nations. Human Rights judge said yesterday that Mujahid had been the com- December in 1971,” prosecutor Muklesur Rahman reduced almost to ruins in the brutal 1992-96 says the chaotic street mapping makes it “the Watch has said its procedures fall short of international mander of Al-Badr, a notorious militia that carried out Badal told AFP. When it became clear that Pakistan was civil war. most difficult job in the world”.”We don’t care standards. Yesterday, scores of Jamaat activists took to “extermination of intellectuals” towards the end of the losing the war, dozens of intellectuals were abducted The Kabul population has boomed to five about traffic, summer or winter, smog or rain the streets in the western city of Rajshahi to protest the war. The judge said he was found guilty, among other from their homes and murdered in December 1971 in million as people have flooded in seeking but there are many vague addresses, though latest verdict. Police fired rubber bullets at supporters crimes, of the abduction and murder of a top journal- the most gruesome chapter of the war. Their bodies employment and escaping the battle against a telephone number on the back of the enve- who were burning wood in an attempt to block a high- ist. “In three out of five charges he was given the death were found blindfolded with hands tied in a marsh on the Taliban, but much of the recent expansion lope can help,” he says. “We ring them up and way, local police chief Ziaur Rahman said. sentence. Our 42 years of wait for justice are finally the outskirts of the capital. Shaheen Reza Noor, whose is illegal, with many houses and shacks built they say ‘I’m standing here’ so we go and hand Some 25 activists were arrested, Rahman told AFP. over,” the country’s junior attorney general and prose- father Sirajuddin Hossain was the top journalist who on contested land or without planning per- over the letter. —AFP Mujahid, the secretary general of Jamaat, was a former cutor M.K. Rahman said. “As the president of Jamaat’s disappeared during that period, was delighted at yes- minister in a previous government and is also an influ- now defunct student wing, he was the chief of the terday’s verdict. —AFP Relatives of missing in India floods optimistic

LUCKNOW: A day after the government home in the state of Uttar Pradesh and assured her that every corner of Kedar said it would treat more than 5,700 peo- went to the temple town of Kedarnath valley would be searched for her two ple missing in floods in northern India with her husband and two sons - sons, she said. “I know my sons will last month as presumed dead, relatives Ashwal, 18, and Atharav, 16. She return one day. They are safe somewhere said yesterday they still held out hope returned home alone. in the hills,” she said. Since the flood, that their loved ones had survived. The On June 16, a wall of water struck the Manoj Jaiswal, 40, has not heard from his provisional death toll - officials said hotel where they were staying. Her hus- brother, sister-in-law or their two chil- some of the missing still could turn up band and one of her sons were swept dren, who had been on a pilgrimage in alive - would make the Uttarakhand away. “There was a deafening noise of the area. He said the morning just before the flood, his brother called him to say they were staying an extra day. “This proved fatal for them,” he said. Jaiswal had gone to the area to search for his relatives. “The hotel where they were staying is badly damaged. Twenty- eight people died in that hotel, but my brother’s name is not there in the casual- ty list,” he said. The state government has been criti- cized for poor emergency preparedness in a disaster-prone Himalayan area, and chaotic development has been blamed for exacerbating the damage from mud- slides and overflowing rivers. Bahuguna said the government would address those concerns. “We will devise a scien- tific system where a balance could be maintained between development and DIMAPUR: Indian residents transport drinking water in a plastic bucket as nature,” he said. More than 1,100 roads they wade through flood waters after heavy monsoon rain in Dimapur, in were damaged because of the rains and the north eastern state of Nagaland yesterday. — AFP landslides and many of them remained floods the worst natural disaster in India water and rain. I clung to my younger cut off, said R.P. Bhatt, the chief engineer since more than 10,000 people were son, who had injured his leg and could at the Public Works Department. Entire killed here in the Indian Ocean tsunami not walk,” she said. The next day, when villages were buried in silt and debris. in 2004. The toll was worsened by the he complained of thirst, she left to fetch Ramesh Pokhriyal, a former chief presence of tens of thousands of Hindu him water, but she got lost when she minister of the state and a top official pilgrims visiting the state’s temples and tried to return to him. That was the last with the opposition Bharatiya Janata the many vacationers who head to its she saw of him. Party said many villages could not get cool hills to escape the summer heat. She later stumbled across her hus- food supplies and he feared people The government said it was presuming band’s dead body, recognizing him from would begin dying of hunger if immedi- those missing for a month were dead so the shirt he had been wearing. She still ate action was not taken. Bahuguna said it could start giving compensation to holds out hope for her children. She met the government was working on allevi- their families. Anuradha Raizada, left her Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna, who ating the suffering. —AP Brother of Afghan national security adviser shot dead

HEART: Gunmen yesterday assassinated a brother of Taleban spokesman, Yousuf Ahmadi called AFP from an Afghanistan’s national security adviser Rangin Dadfar Spanta unknown location and said the insurgent militia was responsi- outside a public bathhouse in the family’s relatively peaceful ble. “This person... who has worked with the government over home province, police said. The Taleban claimed responsibility the last four years was killed in a guerrilla attack by one of our for the killing of Wali Jaan, a public prosecutor in the small mujahideen in Herat,” Ahmadi said. town of Karukh in the western province of Herat which bor- “He was a key government official,” he added. Spanta, one ders Iran. “Today at around 8:30 am (0400 GMT) Wali Jaan, the of the most influential people in the Western-backed govern- brother of Dr Spanta, was gunned down. He was attacked by ment, served as foreign minister before becoming national two persons on a motorbike as he came out of a (public) bath,” security adviser to Karzai. Herat police spokesman Abdul Rauf Ahmadi told AFP. Taleban insurgents have carried out attacks in Herat since “The attackers fled the area,” he added. Herat police chief the 2001 US-led invasion brought down their regime in Kabul, Rahmatullah Safi confirmed the killing but gave no further but most of their activity is concentrated elsewhere. Herat has details. Afghan President Hamid Karzai condemned the mur- seen an increasing number of kidnappings blamed mostly on der and blamed “foreign intelligence agencies” for what he criminal groups, forcing some businessmen to leave the called a “continuation of a series of assassinations”. provincial capital. — AFP THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 ANALYSIS14

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Issues Chinese slowdown casts shadow over world economy

By Roland Jackson

hina’s slowdown cast a shadow over Europe and Asia, sparking questions over Beijing’s ability to avoid a hard Clanding that would wreak havoc on the world econo- my, analysts said. The nation’s powerhouse economy slowed to 7.5-percent growth in the second quarter, down from 7.7 percent in the previous three months, official data showed Monday. “China is a key downside risk to the global economy. Recent data does suggest that the economy is sluggish,” VTB Capital economist Neil MacKinnon said. “In addition, the authorities are concerned about the rapid rate of credit expansion and the impact it might have on inflation. This rules out any near-term monetary or fiscal stimulus.” New evidence emerged Tuesday of the impact of slowing Chinese growth in Europe, which is still struggling to recover 5-nation spy alliance too vital for leaks to harm from the euro-zone’s long-running sovereign debt crisis. Investors in Germany, Europe’s biggest economy, turned By Nick Perry and Paisley Dodds gence, providing a window into the growing might of Asia. provided. He said that as chief of the defense force, a role he gloomy this month on fears over falling exports to China, in a Canadians, Australians and New Zealanders can sometimes held before taking over the spy agency in 2006, he could nev- stark illustration of the new globalised power of the Asian ritain needed US intelligence to help thwart a major ter- prove useful spies because they don’t come under the same er have sent troops to Afghanistan without the on-the-ground nation’s industry and consumers. Germany’s investor confi- ror attack. New Zealand relied on it to send troops to scrutiny as their British and American counterparts. “The intelligence provided by the US and other allies. dence index, calculated by ZEW economic institute, fell by 2.2 BAfghanistan. And Australia used it to help convict a United States doesn’t share information,” said Bob Ayers, a for- He said New Zealand continues to rely on Five Eyes infor- points to 36.3 points in July. That disappointed analysts’ fore- would-be bomber. All feats were the result of a spying alliance mer CIA officer, “without an expectation of getting something mation for most of its overseas deployments, from peacekeep- casts for an increase to 40 points. known as Five Eyes that groups together five English-speaking in return.” ing to humanitarian efforts. The intelligence is vital, he added, democracies, and they point to a vital lesson: American infor- Britain is home to one of the world’s largest eavesdropping for thwarting potential cyber threats. In Australia, prosecutors ‘DARK CLOUDS’ FROM THE EAST mation is so valuable, experts say, that no amount of global centers, located about 300 kilometers (186 miles) northwest of in 2009 used evidence from a US informant who had been at a “New dark clouds have started to black out growth outrage over secret US surveillance powers would cause London at Menwith Hill. It’s run by the NSA but hundreds of terrorist training camp in Pakistan to help convict one of nine prospects of the German economy,” said ING DiBa economist Britain, Canada, Australia and New Zealand to ditch the Five British employees are employed there, including analysts from Muslim extremists found guilty of planning to bomb an Carsten Brzeski. “These clouds are not coming from the South Eyes relationship. Britain’s eavesdropping agency, the Government unspecified Sydney target. but from the East. The stuttering and now slowing Chinese The broader message is that the revelations from NSA leak- Communications Headquarters - or GCHQ. Australia is home The Australian Security Intelligence Organization wrote in economy is a clear cause of concern (and) could become a er Edward Snowden are unlikely to stop or even slow the to Pine Gap, a sprawling satellite tracking station located in an email to AP that “intelligence sharing between countries is new risk factor for the German economic outlook.” China is global growth of secret-hunting, which is increasingly crucial the remote center of the country, where NSA officials work critical to identifying and preventing terrorism and other now the fifth most important single export market for to the security and prosperity of nations. “Information is like side-by-side with scores of locals. The US also posts three or transnational security threats.” Canada’s Department of German companies and accounts for some six percent of gold,” Bruce Ferguson, the former head of New Zealand’s for- four analysts at a time in New Zealand, home to the small National Defense had a similar response, saying it “takes an total exports. The Asian Development Bank meanwhile eign spy agency, the Government Communications Security Waihopai and Tangimoana spy stations. The intelligence-shar- active role in building relationships with allies. Collaborating warned Tuesday that China’s slowing growth was weakening Bureau, told The Associated Press. “If you don’t have it, you ing relationship enabled American and British security and with the personnel of the Five Eyes community in support of momentum and trimmed its outlook for developing Asia this don’t survive.” The Five Eyes arrangement underscores the val- law enforcement officials to thwart a major terror attack in mutual defense and security issues is part of this relationship year to 6.3 percent, from 6.6 percent. ue of this information - as well as the limitations of the infor- 2006 - the trans-Atlantic liquid bomb plot to blow up some 10 building.” The sluggishness comes as “China is attempting to rebal- mation sharing. airliners. Both agencies declined requests to provide more specific ance its economy away from investment towards a more con- The collaboration began during World War II when the The collaboration, sometimes called ECHELON, takes place information. In the decades since World War II, the allies have sumer-driven economy,” said Currencies Direct analyst Alistair allies were trying to crack German and Japanese naval codes within strict parameters. Two U.S. intelligence officials, who formed various other intelligence allegiances, although few as Cotton. But this rebalancing would present growth opportu- and has endured. The alliance helps avoid duplication in some spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren’t comprehensive or deep as Five Eyes. While the Snowden reve- nities for the West, he noted. “The big winners, should they instances and allows for greater penetration in others. The five authorized to speak about the program to the news media, lations will test the relationship, it has survived tests in the crack the market, will be consumer companies with strong nations have agreed not to spy on each other, and in many said only US intelligence officers can directly access their own past. New Zealand has long asserted an independent foreign brand identity,” he said. “The losers are likely to be the coun- outposts around the world, Five Eyes agencies work side by vast database. A Five Eyes ally can ask to cross-check, say, a policy by banning nuclear ships, and some are now calling for tries supplying the raw materials for Chinese investment, con- side, allowing for information to be shared quickly. suspicious phone number it has independently collected to the country to go further and opt out of Five Eyes. Lawmaker versely the ones that were doing so well in the last decade.” But Richard Aldrich, who spent a decade researching a see if there is any link to the US, the officials said. But the ally Russel Norman, co-leader of New Zealand’s Green Party, is one Daiwa Capital Markets economist Chris Scicluna added book on British surveillance, said some Five Eyes nations have must first show the request is being made in response to a of many people calling for a public review of the relationship. that markets were eager to see an “orderly” Chinese slow- spied on each other, violating their own rules. The five coun- potential threat to Western interests. Ferguson said that in “I want to live in a free society, not a total surveillance down that would not disrupt the world economy. “China’s tries “generally know what’s in each other’s underwear draw- New Zealand, cooperation with the US improved markedly state,” he said. “The old Anglo-American gang of five no longer support for global demand has been welcome over the past ers so you don’t need to spy, but occasionally there will be after the Sept 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. runs the world.” But John Blaxland, a senior fellow at the couple of years as the West has had to work off the excesses issues when they don’t agree” - and when that happens they Still, he said, his agency was kept on a need-to-know basis. Australian National University’s Strategic and Defense Studies of the pre-Lehman era,” Scicluna told AFP, in reference to US snoop, Aldrich said. In Five Eyes, the US boasts the most He said he never knew what information was being provided Centre, said politicians Down Under have often criticized the bank Lehman Brothers whose collapse in 2008 triggered a advanced technical abilities and the biggest budget. to other Five Eyes nations, and none of the countries would security relationship until they’ve gotten into power and been global slump. “A slowing of China’s growth, over the medium Britain is a leader in traditional spying, thanks in part to its have shared all their intelligence anyway. Ferguson said a briefed on its benefits. Then, he said, they tend to go silent. term, to a sub-7.0-percent rate was always inevitable as the reach into countries that were once part of the British Empire. small country like New Zealand benefited by a ratio of about “The perception is that the advantages are so great, they’d be economy matured. Australia has excelled in gathering regional signals and intelli- five-to-one in the information it received compared to what it crazy to give it up,” he said.—AP

ENGINEERING SLOWDOWN “The main concern is that the authorities there can engi- Drug kingpin’s capture spurs hope in Mexico neer an orderly slowdown-ie. one that does not see growth plummet sub-5.0 percent and lead to financial and social cri- By Dave Graham offensive to subdue cartels that make vast since Pena Nieto took over last December from tained strongholds in certain areas. sis.” Gekko Markets analyst Anita Paluch added that the West amounts of money funneling drugs including his predecessor Felipe Calderon, Islas said. Calderon’s military-led offensive proved had relied on booming China to help overcome a fierce he dramatic capture of the boss of the cocaine and marijuana into the lucrative U.S. Pena Nieto vowed to improve the use of intelli- costly. Killings from turf wars between the recession which followed the global financial crisis. “Slower Zetas drug cartel provides fresh evidence market to the north. gence in the fight. Trevino was captured with- gangs and their clashes with authorities esca- growth will have impact on those countries who have strong that Mexican authorities are starting to out a single shot fired after his pick-up truck lated after he took office in December 2006, trade links with China-like Australia, Brazil and (the) South T win their protracted fight against a gang that ‘A MAJOR BLOW’ was intercepted by a navy helicopter. rising above 60,000 by the end of his six-year East Asia region-as demand will fall,” Paluch said. has done more than any other to stain the “This is a major blow,” Alberto Islas, head of Conscious of the damage the Zetas were term. After the Zetas went through a violent China is vital for the smooth functioning of global country’s name with its brutality. But even with Mexico City-based consultancy firm Risk doing to Mexico’s reputation, Calderon break-up with the Gulf Cartel - displacing it as economies because the Asian powerhouse nation is a major Miguel Angel Trevino now in custody, Mexican Evaluation, said of Trevino’s capture. “But as the stepped up efforts to catch leaders of the the dominant gang in northeastern Mexico - consumer of commodities, like crude oil, steel, and copper, President Enrique Pena Nieto still has the diffi- Zetas are split into regions, they can still con- gang, founded in the late 1990s by 14 former they commanded more than 10,000 gunmen and of manufactured products like cars and airplanes. At the cult task of taming other cartels even as he cre- tinue to function.” The extent to which the soldiers who were hired initially as enforcers from Central America to the Rio Grande River same time, China is also widely regarded as the workshop of ates a new militarized police force to take over Zetas can regroup will depend greatly on for the then-powerful Gulf Cartel. Over the marking the US-Mexican border. the world, and its vast factories benefit from low labour costs the fight waged for years by the military. whether a new leader emerges from their years, the Zeta cartel became big enough to and high volume production. But the International Monetary The Mexican government said late on ranks, with Omar Trevino a prime candidate, threaten the Sinaloa Cartel of Joaquin INTERNAL DISPUTE Fund cut its global economic growth forecast last week, cit- Monday it had arrested Trevino - also known Islas said. Guzman, aka “El Chapo,” Mexico’s most wanted Signs began to emerge last year that all was ing the increased “possibility of a longer growth slowdown” in by the alias Z-40 - in a raid near his hometown Trevino’s arrest - taken alive carrying $2 mil- man. By 2012, the Zetas and the Sinaloa cartel not well within the Zetas. Talk of an internal emerging market economies like China. of Nuevo Laredo on the US border. In the past lion in cash - pointed to an improvement in were considered the most powerful drug dispute surfaced, gathering pace with intelli- Scicluna added Tuesday that all nations around the world 10 months, three of the Zetas four most-want- intelligence-gathering by Mexican authorities gangs in Mexico. Other smaller cartels main- gence reports that some Zetas had massacred needed to return to “appropriate” levels of growth to create a ed leaders have been killed or captured by other members of the gang in the city of San balanced global economy. “Over the long run we would hope Mexico’s armed forces, including the 40-year- Luis Potosi. In the summer, banners accusing to have all economies running at their potential,” he said. “It old Trevino, whose younger brother Omar is Trevino of being a “Judas” to then-Zetas leader will, however, be a long time before Europe’s economies have now the only top-level member of the cartel Heriberto Lazcano began appearing in parts of returned to that position. My big fear is a very abrupt Chinese still at large. Mexico. By early October, Lazcano was dead - slowdown with disorderly consequences.” But due to the In the past three years, atrocities blamed on shot by Mexican Marines - and Trevino’s inter- poor quality of Chinese economic data and lack of informa- the Zetas have pushed Mexico’s conflict with nal rival in the gang, Ivan Velazquez, alias “El tion about risks in the Chinese banking sector, “it is difficult to drug gangs to new depths of savagery, making Taliban,” had been captured by the navy. gauge with any confidence the probability of that happen- them the prime target of Pena Nieto’s efforts to Since the start of this year, some towns rav- ing,” he said.—AFP restore order and end negative headlines aged by the Zetas have had increasing success about the drug war. in beating back the gang. Improvement was Even with a potentially crippling blow to a noteworthy in places like the northern city of All articles appearing on these powerful cartel, Pena Nieto faces major chal- Torreon. Once cited as an example of Mexico’s pages are the personal opinion of lenges in his quest to pacify Mexico, where progress from a poor agrarian society to a ris- gang violence prompted some areas of the ing industrial power, it suffered a 16-fold the writers. Kuwait Times takes no country to take the law into their own hands in increase in homicides after the Zetas arrived in responsibility for views expressed the past year. 2007, turning it into one of the most murder- therein. Kuwait Times invites read- Sickening acts of violence like the behead- ous cities in the world. “Investment went ing of 49 people near Monterrey last year and down, bars and restaurants closed, and the ers to voice their opinions. Please the mass slaughter of migrant workers in night life came to an end,” said Mayor Eduardo send submissions via email to: opin- northeastern Mexico in 2011 and 2010 have Olmos, a member of Pena Nieto’s Institutional [email protected] or via snail earned the nation attention for all the wrong Revolutionary Party, or PRI. Thanks to better mail to PO Box 1301 Safat, Kuwait. reasons, and contributed to the impression MEXICO CITY: A Public Security member patrols with a sniffer dog the surround- investigative work and coordination, the Zetas that authorities could not control the Zetas. ings of the Deputy Attorney Specialized in Investigation of Organized Crime are in retreat in Torreon, the mayor added. The editor reserves the right to edit More than 70,000 Mexicans have been killed in (SEIDO) headquarters, where the alleged maximum leader of drugs Mexican car- Olmos noted that murders in the city had fall- any submission as necessary. drug-related violence since the start of 2007, tel “Los Zetas” Miguel Angel Trevino Morales, aka “Z 40”, remains under investi- en from around 115 in June 2012 to about 15 when the government launched a military gation, in Mexico City. — AFP in June 2013.—Reuters NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 Qaeda No 2 killed in US drone strike

SANAA: Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula yesterday confirmed the death in a US drone strike of its deputy leader Saeed Al-Shehri, dealing a new blow to the already-weakened network’s operations in Yemen. Shehri was released from Guantanamo Bay in Cuba in 2007 and was flown to Saudi Arabia, where he was put through a rehabilitation program. After completing the program, the militant leader disappeared only to resurface later as AQAP’s number two. “Sheikh Saeed Al-Shehri, aka Abu Sufyan Al-Azdi, was killed in a US drone strike,” said an AQAP leader, Ibrahim Al-Rubaish, in a video posted on Islamist web- sites yesterday. Rubaish, who gave no indication of when Shehri was killed, said that “lax security measures during his telephone contacts has enabled the enemy RIYADH: A stateless man enters his makeshift shelter in an impoverished neighborhood of the Saudi capital to (identify and) kill him”. Riyadh. The stateless nomads, known as bedoons, were originally traveling between Saudi Arabia, Iraq, In a eulogy to Shehri, he said he had “planned the Kuwait and Jordan. The bedoons have long been marginalized and are not entitled to state-provided servic- kidnap of the Saudi deputy consul in Aden,” Abdullah es and benefits. — AFP Al-Khalidi, who has been held captive by AQAP since March 2012. AQAP militants are demanding the release Al-Qaeda deputy leader Sheikh Saeed Al-Shehri of female Al-Qaeda-linked prisoners held in Saudi in Al-Awlaqi, a key figure in AQAP was killed in a drone Saudi bans Ethiopians return for Khalidi’s release. Shehri had been hounded by strike in Yemen in September 2011. A few months later, Yemen’s security forces and had survived a number of Yemeni Al-Qaeda leader Fahd Al-Quso, who was attempts on his life. RIYADH: Saudi authorities banned yesterday Several media outlets have reported instances of believed to have helped mount a deadly attack on a US His death had been announced several times by the Ethiopian workers from entering the country follow- children being killed allegedly by Ethiopian domestic warship in a Yemeni port in 2000, was killed in an air Yemeni authorities, most recently on January 24. In ing reports of crimes against children committed by workers, including two cases in the capital. The oil- raid attributed to the United States. April, AQAP released an audio message purported to be maids from the African nation. The Labor Ministry rich kingdom, which hosts some eight million foreign In March, the weakened AQAP whose operations a newly-delivered address by Shehri. Last October, and the Interior Ministry have agreed to “temporari- workers, mostly from South Asian nations, intro- have been restricted over the past few months to hit- Shehri himself denied a September announcement by ly” stop the importation of workers from Ethiopia, duced this week new rules setting the rights for and-run attacks against members of the security forces, Yemen’s defense ministry that he had been killed in an SPA state news agency said. It said the ban will domestic workers, including getting a weekly day off accepted a negotiated truce with Sanaa, proposed by army raid, in an audio message posted on extremist remain in place until the completion of investigation and being paid on time. But it also urged workers to tribal and religious figures. But Yemeni President Internet forums. An official Yemeni statement in January into “recent incidents”, in reference to crimes report- respect Islam, the religion of the ultra-conservative Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi had rejected these efforts, called him “one of the (Al-Qaeda) leaders who played a ed in local media. kingdom, and to “obey” employers. — AFP insisting that the militants must lay down their arms. major role in the planning of local, regional and interna- AQAP has not yet announced who will succeed tional terrorist acts”. Shehri. “It is will certainly not be a Yemeni and the name It said he was “the military commander of terrorist of Ibrahim Al-Rubaish is cited as a possible choice to Gay marriage - Britain and elements” during deadly clashes with the army in the replace Shehri,” the tribal chief said. Rubaish, a Saudi like southern Abyan province, which Islamist rebels largely Shehri, is also a former Guantanamo prisoner who fled controlled for a year before Yemeni forces recaptured it to Yemen after being repatriated to Saudi Arabia. He is France in surprise contrast in June 2012. AQAP took advantage of the weakness of believed to be the mastermind behind providing AQAP, Yemen’s central government during an uprising in 2011 the network’s deadliest branch, theological justification against now-ousted president Ali Abdullah Saleh to for its operations. UK legalizes gay marriage seize large swathes of territory across the south. AQAP is led by Nasser al-Wuhayshi, who in July 2011 LONDON: The French like to make fun of the British, joking people had expected legalizing gay marriage to face much But after a month-long offensive launched in May reaffirmed the group’s allegiance to Ayman Al-Zawahiri, about their repressed ways in matters of the heart. But of a hurdle. French polls had shown for more than a last year by Yemeni troops, most militants fled to the head of the worldwide Al-Qaeda network since the when it came time to debate same-sex marriage, it was decade that the concept enjoyed majority public support, more lawless desert regions of the east towards killing in May 2011 of its founder, Osama bin Laden. France that betrayed a deep conservative streak in some- and Paris has had a gay mayor for years. And to outsiders, Hadramawt province. “AQAP has reduced its operations The United States has stepped up its support for times violent protests - while the British showed them- of course, France is seen as the land of “anything goes” for two reasons: it is restructuring after having lost its Yemen’s battle against AQAP, which it regards as the selves to be modern and tolerant. when it comes to sex - from the Marquis de Sade to author stronghold in Abyan, and a feeling that the Americans most active and deadliest franchise of the global Al- With little fanfare or controversy, Britain announced yes- Colette to disgraced French politician Dominique Strauss- have infiltrated its ranks especially with the killing of Qaeda network. US drones strikes in Yemen nearly terday that Queen Elizabeth II - hardly a social radical - had Kahn, notorious for his libertine sex parties. Politically, too, several of its leaders,” said a tribal chief, known for his tripled in 2012 compared to 2011, from 18 to 53, signed into law a bill legalizing same-sex marriages in it was meant to be a blip. Legalizing gay marriage was near close contacts with members of the network. according to the New America Foundation, a England and Wales. France has also legalized gay mar- the bottom of French President Francois Hollande’s 36- Yemeni-born American radical Islamic cleric Anwar Washington-based think tank. — AFP riages, but only after a series of gigantic protests attracting point agenda for his presidency. families from the traditional heartland that revealed a It was mentioned in passing during his presidential deeply split society. Official word that the queen had campaign but was never an issue that galvanized opposi- Different kinds of good deeds approved the bill drew cheers in the usually sedate House tion, and was entirely eclipsed by concerns about the of Commons. “This is a historic moment that will resonate economy. Then, something clicked in the conservative Continued from Page 1 desires illicitly, would it be written as a sin against you? in many people’s lives,” Equalities Minister Maria Miller said heartland - which showed just how much of a force it is in Of course the answer is yes.” He continued, “In as much in a statement. “I am proud that we have made it happen French life. When the law was drafted and the idea of gays and I look forward to the first same sex wedding by next marrying turned from concept to imminent reality, tradi- sincerely they will accrue a lot of rewards to us. as you earn a sin in satisfying your carnal desires illicit- summer.” tionalists spoke up, and loudly. Protests grew bigger, and Sometimes some poor people think that all the ly, you will be rewarded if you enjoyed conjugal rites There were British political figures and religious leaders spread wider. Opponents of the bill stirred up fears about rewards would be taken by the rich who do every- with your spouse licitly.” (Muslim 1,007/524) vehemently opposed to gay marriage but the opposition gay parents raising France’s new generations. thing that the poor do and on top of that, they give never reached a fever pitch, in part because the same-sex A fringe of far-right skinheads drew camera crews and charity, which the poor can’t afford to give. Question: Faith is divided into 70 and a few marriage bill had broad public support and the backing of condemnation as they wrestled with riot police at Paris Some people approached Prophet Muhammad branches, the highest of which is: the leaders of the three major political parties. In fact, it protests. But most of those at the barricades were families, was Prime Minister David Cameron, leader of the tradition- children with grandparents, members of France’s minority (PBUH) and complained thus: “O Messenger of Allah! (A) To help a poor person (B) Saying: “there is no minded Conservatives, who proposed the legislation in the of practicing Catholics bussed in en masse from towns and Wealthy people have taken all the rewards - there is no one worthy to be worshipped except Allah.” first place. villages to march on the capital. way we can compete with them; they pray as we pray, (C) To pray 5 times a day. The public seemed to take it for granted that gay mar- Some conservative Muslims and Jews joined in. In they fast the same way we fast. Moreover, they give riage should be a part of British life. It was perhaps a sign of marching against gay marriage, the demonstrators also charity from their surplus income.” The Prophet asked, Courtesy TIES Center, a leading non-political NGO how Britain has evolved in past decades into a much more seemed to be protesting freewheeling Paris life, the image “Hasn’t Allah provided for you things from which you promoting relations between Westerners and cosmopolitan nation than its starchy, traditionalist image of a wanton, insatiable French sexuality celebrated in films can give charity? Muslims through dialogue, friendship and cultural would suggest. “The opposition seemed restricted to a and art - but far from the reality of many provincial French exchange. For more information. www.tiescenter.net very small number of people very vigorous in their views,” families. For a time in early 2013, France felt like a deeply In other words, Allah has legislated acts, which if said Stephen Fielding, a political scientist at the University divided nation. you do sincerely, you will be rewarded as though you of Nottingham. But the size of the anti-gay marriage movement was gave charity. (They are) to extol Allah by saying “It was restricted to the back benchers of the largely the result of a political backlash against Hollande, ‘Subhaanal-Allah,’ (how perfect is God) to glorify Allah Conservative Party. It wasn’t shared across the political whose popularity dived soon after his election over his han- with ‘Allahu Akbar,’ (God is the greatest) and to dignify spectrum. It was an issue whose time had come. To oppose dling of the economy. The movement was the right vehicle Allah with ‘LaaIlaahaIlla Allah,’ (there is no one worthy it seemed slightly strange.” The law was also written in a at the right time to target Hollande and his Socialists. Once to be worshipped except Allah), and ‘Alhamdu Lil-Lah,’ way that allowed the Church of England - which is the law passed, the momentum stalled. Even the protesters JULY 18, 2013 opposed - to sidestep the controversy since it is explicitly seemed to realize they remain the minority, and polls con- (all praises are due to Allah). barred from conducting same-sex marriages. tinue to show that most French people think gay marriage - Moreover, enjoining what is good and forbidding The picture was completely different in France. Few now that it is a fact of life - is fine. — AP what is evil are also regarded as charity. Enjoying con- jugal rites with your spouse is also charity.” Upon hearing this, his companions inquired, “Even A response to an open letter when we satisfy our carnal desires, do we get reward- ed?” He replied, “What if you satisfied your carnal Continued from Page 1 be a short wait, but it will not be outside in the sun, and everyone who comes will be seen. if the building reaches capacity the Application Centre, We are of course delighted that so many Kuwaitis wish Filipinos call for ban on maids to Mideast for health and safety reasons, are asking applicants to to visit our country - or as my Kuwaiti friends rightly say, return at a later time they definitely do not have to stand ‘their second home”. We do all we can to make the visa Continued from Page 1 ëa very interesting development’. outside and queue. process as simple and hassle-free as possible. I personally ‘Leaders here are speaking, democracy is at work; In reality there is no need to rush to get there early, would strongly recommend regular visitors to the UK to They cited reasons such as failure of these countries they are voicing out their concerns and fair suggestions. appointments can be booked online. In addition, from apply for five or ten year visas rather than repeatedly to enact laws that will ensure the protection and rights Bear in mind that we have gathered all their communi- today the Application Centre will be releasing extra applying every six months. of house workers. These countries have also not officially cations and evidence and some of them have already appointments after iftar, between 20:00 and 22:00, in And all the Information you need to apply for your visa and transparently acknowledged the terms and provi- presented their suggestions. We are going to present all response to the high levels of public demand. Those who is readily available online at www.visa4uk.fcoÁov.uk, and sions of standard employment contracts for house- of these to our central government for careful study, want to walk in and use the Premium Service to get their our Application Centre is happy to answer any queries on maids. considerations and other options. visa application submitted Immediately can also do so its hotline, 22971170. I wish you all a very happy and They also mentioned the ‘sex-for-flight-issue’, which The host government is already informed, and it’s up without an appointment; due to high volumes there may peaceful Ramadan and a wonderful visit to the UK. they said show that some of the government’s own to our central government on what to do on this matter. recruiters appear to have exploited housemaids under I am sure they’re going to study comprehensively to give their care. According to the open letter, abuses extend due process to everyone especially when we are talking Kuwait woman jailed for anti-Amir tweets from long working hours, unpaid salaries, underpay- about the interest of Filipino domestic helpers,’ he ment of salaries, bad living conditions, physical cruelty, added. Continued from Page 1 Fuzai recalled how the Minister for Development verbal ill-treatment, illegal work, illegal recruitment, false Asked on what they’ve been doing in cases already Rula Dashti earlier this year warned that Kuwait could charges of theft and other forms of exploitation result- registered at the embassy, he said, ‘We have a team of In a related development, the election campaign has start seeking loans from outside if MPs continued to ing to hundreds and thousands of housemaids being lawyers who are helping us in everything. We visit abuse so far remained lackluster with a few people attending approve highly expensive legislation to just appease cit- stranded for weeks and months at embassy shelters. victims in the hospitals too. We are preparing for the election campaigns due to high temperature, the fast- izens, saying that Kuwait could become a debtor coun- ‘Therefore, we, the Filipino community leaders reiter- best strategy possible; we listen to the community and ing month of Ramadan and apparently due to a boycott try because of squandering its wealth in foreign aid. ate our prayer that our government be moved with wis- their suggestions on what’s to be done in this particular by most opposition groups. With less than 10 days to go Former MP Ahmad Lari yesterday criticized the govern- dom, good judgment and determination to muster the scenario. for the election date on July 27, a number of candidates ment move to issue the state budget for 2013/2014 fis- political will to, without delay, freeze the deployment of We are doing everything according to legal kicked off their election campaigns at tents provided cal year in an emergency decree, stressing that the gov- our countrymen as household service workers to the approaches as long as it will not result in injustices or with air-conditioning units to beat extremely hot condi- ernment should have waited until the new Assembly Middle East and to put an end to decades of a vicious unrest to the feelings of people or parties concerned. We tions. had been elected. cycle of recruitment-deployment-abuse and until there are discouraging our people to take revenge or any vio- The focus of most candidates has so far been on local The budget was released yesterday in an Amiri be clear conditions that will ensure the welfare and pro- lent reactions (in response to rape and abuses of issues like housing, education, development and decree because the Assembly is dissolved and MPs and tection of our mostly women house workers,’ the state- Filipinas),’ he stated. employment, but occasional turned their eyes to experts have warned the move could trigger a legal ment read. But an officer of Filipino Association of Secretaries of regional issues especially if Kuwait is somewhat battle in court. Many candidates also called on the gov- The Embassy, according to CDA and Consul General Employment Agencies in Kuwait (FIL-ASEAK) Laila involved like the $4 billion aid package to Egypt. A ernment to speed up its solution to the decades-old Atty Raul Dado, has communicated the concerns to local Venturina cautioned the government on any possible member of the scrapped Assembly Nawaf Al-Fuzai yes- housing problem in the country. The candidates authorities here. ‘We have sent a diplomatic note to the imposition of a moratorium. ‘If they can provide jobs to terday strongly criticized the government decision on blamed the government and a group of influential Ministry of Foreign Affairs (in Kuwait) to get their atten- all Filipinos back home, then go ahead with the morato- the aid to Egypt, saying that most of the Kuwaiti budget landlords of causing the problem in which Kuwaiti citi- tion about a possible moratorium,’ he said. In reaction to rium. But they cannot, so why block or stop our country- in the past year has been distributed as aid to other zens wait for at not less than 10 years to get a govern- the ongoing campaign, Dado said it’s still up to the cen- men of finding jobs so they can feed their families,’ she countries. ment house or land. tral government whether to implement what he termed commented. THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 SPORTS

Lorenzo eyes Laguna Seca Andretti signs up for Napoli chasing Higuain

LAGUNA SECA: MotoGP champion Jorge Lorenzo will attend this weekend’s US electric racing series MADRID: Napoli are in talks to buy Real Madrid’s Argentina forward Gonzalo Grand Prix at Laguna Seca and may try and race despite doctors advising him to Higuain and Internacional’s Brazil striker Leandro Damiao and are close to a rest his broken collarbone after two successive crashes. INDIANAPOLIS: The Andretti Autosport IndyCar team run by Michael Andretti deal for Real’s Spain defender Raul Albiol, president Aurelio De Laurentiis said “Finally we have decided to go to Laguna Seca,” the Spaniard, third overall in will enter the inaugural Formula E electric racing series due to start up next yesterday. The Serie A club are flush with cash after agreeing the sale of the standings after eight of 18 races and just 11 points behind leader Marc year, organisers said yesterday. Uruguay striker Edinson Cavani to Paris St Germain for a reported fee of 64 Marquez, said in a Yamaha statement yesterday. He had earlier posted a photo- “It’s an honor for Andretti Autosport to have been selected as one of the 10 million euros ($84.1 million) on Tuesday and are looking to strengthen their graph on Twitter of himself packing a bag with the words “almost ready for Laguna founding Formula E teams for the inaugural season,” Andretti, a former F1 rac- squad for their domestic and Champions League campaigns. Seca”. Yamaha said Lorenzo wanted to be with his team and could make an er and son of 1978 world champion Mario, said in a statement after a presen- Asked in a Twitter chat with fans whether Napoli were negotiating to buy attempt to start. Last Saturday, after crashing heavily in prac- tation in Indianapolis. Higuain and Damiao, De Laurentiis said: “It’s true.” “Raul tice at the Sachsenring in Germany, the Yamaha rider had “I look forward to further exploring the series and helping build the future Albiol is undergoing medical tests. We hope he pass- assured his 800,000 followers that he did not want to of open-wheel racing across the world.” Andretti Autosport are the third team es,” he added. take more risks and was planning to return at to commit to the championship after Britain’s Drayson Racing - who recently Napoli last week agreed to sign versatile Spanish Indianapolis in August. The rider said yesterday he broke the world electric land speed record - and China Racing. forward Jose Callejon from Real having already had thought it would be “convenient” to take time The FIA-sanctioned series will involve 10 teams and 20 drivers competing secured the services of Belgium winger Dries out to recover “but over the last two days I have felt in races in 10 city centres around the world. There are two US cities on the Mertens. The pair have joined up with Spaniard much better so now I want to be there, although I will try provisional schedule — Los Angeles and Miami. Rafa Benitez, who was appointed Napoli coach at to not take too many risks”. Team manager Wilco Zeelenberg Andretti will use a Spark-Renault Formula E car in their first season. The car the end of May. The former Liverpool, Chelsea and said the team would set the strategy for the weekend once is built by French-based company Spark Racing Technology who are part of a Inter Milan manager replaced Walter Mazzarri, who Lorenzo had arrived. The champion broke his collar- consortium that includes the McLaren and Williams Formula One teams as quit after the team finished second behind bone in a crash at Assen in the Netherlands last technology partners . Andretti Autosport are a leading IndyCar team with four Juventus last season to qualify for Europe’s month, had surgery and returned the next day championships in that series as well as winning the Indianapolis 500 in 2005 elite club competition.—Reuters to race and finish fifth.—Reuters and 2007. —Reuters AL beat NL in All-Star game NEW YORK: Mariano Rivera was all set up to save his final All-Star game - or so it seemed. Jim Leyland just was- n’t about to take that chance. Summoned in the eighth inning to make certain he would pitch, Rivera soaked up a 90-second standing ova- tion and got three straight outs while helping the American League to a 3-0 victory over the National League on Tuesday night at Citi Field. “I think the plan was perfect,” said Rivera, who took home the MVP trophy. Rivera reported early for work and the New York Yankees’ indomitable closer combined with nine other pitchers on a three-hitter as the AL snapped a three-game skid and regained home-field advantage in the World Series. Joe Nathan saved it in Rivera’s place after the American League scratched out a pair of runs and got an RBI double from Jason Kipnis. Leyland, the AL manager, had promised Rivera would pitch. So NEW YORK: American League All-Star David Ortiz No. 34 of the Boston Red Sox slides into third base for a rather than risk waiting for a save triple in front of the tag of National League All-Star Pedro Alvarez No. 24 of the Pittsburgh Pirates in the opportunity that might never come, ninth inning during the 84th MLB All-Star Game. —AFP the Detroit Tigers’ skipper made his of the best pitchers that’s ever played He was honored by the Mets before a Fans chanted Harvey’s name during much-awaited call one inning earlier this game,” Tigers outfielder Torii game in late May, threw out a cere- pregame introductions, and the 24- NEW YORK: American League All-Star Mariano Rivera No. 42 of the New York Yankees than Rivera is accustomed, just in case Hunter said. All-Stars on both sides monial first ball - and then had his year-old sensation delivered with poses with the MVP trophy after the 84th MLB All-Star Game. —AFP of “something freaky.” clapped from the top of the dugout first blown save of the year. three strikeouts in two shutout “If anybody ever messed up steps, and Rivera tipped his cap to the While other All-Stars wore flashy innings. Mariano Rivera, I can lay claim to that,” crowd. spikes, Rivera stayed with traditional He walked off to a standing ova- Harvey next Mets ace Leyland said. “I just couldn’t take any Then he went to work, retiring black. No surprise for Mr. Steady. tion and received a pat on the back chance. You know, I’m probably not three straight hitters on 16 pitches - Rivera has never allowed an earned from NL manager Bruce Bochy of the NEW YORK: The baton was passed from Carpet; it being in New York, and starting. the most popular manager in base- all cutters, as usual - before walking run in nine All-Star innings. The only San Francisco Giants, the defending the greatest of Mets to their brilliant new “As a kid, I don’t think you could have ball. I wanted to make sure I got out off to another ovation and receiving a older pitcher to appear in an All-Star World Series champions. star when Hall of Famer Tom Seaver threw dreamed of doing something like that. It of here alive.” hug from Detroit ace Justin Verlander. game was 47-year-old Satchel Paige Harvey was the youngest All-Star the ceremonial first pitch and Matt Harvey was a tremendous honor, and something Robinson Cano hobbled off early “It was tough. It was special,” an 60 years ago, according to STATS. starting pitcher since former Mets ace started for the National League at Tuesday’s I’m very thankful for.” after getting hit by a pitch from emotional Rivera said. “Seeing the “First class all the way,” Mets cap- Dwight Gooden was 23 a quarter- All-Star game. Harvey got off to a bumpy start. His first crosstown rival Matt Harvey of the fans sharing and both teams standing tain David Wright said. “Well deserv- century ago - and the first from the Seaver became the first Mets pitcher to pitch was sliced down the first base line by host Mets. X-rays were negative and out of the dugout, managers, coach- ing for Mariano. I was on the top step home team since Houston’s Roger start the Midsummer Classic when he took Mike Trout for a double and the hard- Cano said he shouldn’t miss any es, players - priceless.” Exit, Sandman. clapping and cheering as loud as I Clemens in 2004. Gooden cheered the mound in the 1970 game, a year after throwing righthander hit Yankee second games for the Yankees. Next stop, the Hall of Fame. could.” Harvey on from the stands. helping the New Yorkers win their first baseman Robinson Cano just above the Harvey and opposing starter Max The game’s greatest reliever, quiet Winning pitcher Chris Sale from All the buildup might have made World Series. knee with a 96 mph fastball in the next at- Scherzer were among a record 39 and humble by nature, addressed his the Chicago White Sox worked two the phenom a little too excited at the The three-time Cy Young recipient as bat. first-time All-Stars in a game that fea- AL teammates before they took the perfect innings for the AL, which start. Mike Trout doubled inside first best pitcher in the National League and Cano, who escaped with just a bruise, tured four precocious players 21 or field. He made it quick, just like his posted its third shutout and first since base on his opening pitch, and career 300-game winner gave way to fire- was replaced by a pinch-runner but Harvey younger - baseball’s next generation. outing. Most of them, actually. 1990 at Wrigley Field to trim the NL Harvey drilled Cano just above the baller Harvey, 24, when the game began felt terrible. “Obviously that was the last Both came out throwing 99 mph “What I said was that I was hon- lead to 43-39-2 in All-Star games. The right knee with a 96 mph fastball on and Citi Field fans roared for both men in a thing I wanted to do was go out there and heat, but it was Rivera, at 43 the old- ored and it was a privilege for me to National League didn’t manage a the third. stirring start to the festivities. possibly injure somebody,” Harvey said. est All-Star since Carlton Fisk in 1991, play with all of them for so many baserunner until Carlos Beltran’s one- In obvious pain, Cano initially “When I’m warming up out there and “When he came off, I apologized and made who was the center of attention in his years,” Rivera said. out single in the fourth. It was the stayed in the game but limped off they start chanting my name, that’s some- sure that he was okay.” farewell season. And on this night, The lengthy cheers provided a fit- ninth All-Star game in New York - after Triple Crown winner Miguel thing that you, as a kid, I don’t think you After the game Cano said: “He said: ‘My with drug suspensions still looming ting tribute and the latest salute to most for any city - and second in five Cabrera struck out - just as he did could ever imagine,” Harvey told reporters. bad.’ I said: ‘No problem.’ I know he don’t for some of the game’s biggest Rivera, set to retire after this season. years after a farewell to old Yankee against Harvey in spring training. “This whole experience has been absolute- want to hit nobody. Just part of the game.” names, the spotlight found a player The 13-time All-Star is on something Stadium in 2008. But the only other Cano crossed in front of the ly incredible for me, something I’ll never Harvey collected himself and struck out who is almost universally respected. of a farewell tour, receiving creative time the Mets hosted was during mound while heading to the dugout, forget.” 2012 Triple Crown winner Miguel Cabrera, Baseball’s career saves leader gifts at each opposing ballpark he vis- Shea Stadium’s debut season in 1964, and Harvey patted himself on the Harvey, who has compiled a 7-2 record got major league home run leader Chris came in from the bullpen to its for the final time. when Philadelphia Phillies outfielder chest. “I didn’t mean to, obviously,” with a sterling 2.35 earned run average Davis to fly out to center and struck out Metallica’s “Enter Sandman,” just like He got a rocking chair built out of Johnny Callison hit a game-ending Harvey said. “I feel terrible. Apologies (ERA) for the offensively challenged Mets, Jose Bautista to end the threat. across town at Yankee Stadium, and broken bats in Minnesota, a decorat- homer in the ninth. go out to him.” Cano has a bruised became the youngest All-Star starting After a one-two-three second inning, he was left alone on the field to take in a ed surfboard and bottle of wine in This one gave the struggling Mets quadriceps but said he’ll be ready to pitcher since the Mets’ Dwight “Doc” left the mound to roars from a crowd of stirring ovation. Oakland. The last time he was at Citi a chance to pack their cozy ballpark play when the Yankees come out of Gooden started the game at age 23 in more than 45,000 that was the largest ever “It was a great moment. He is one Field, though, things didn’t go so well. for one of the few times all season. the All-Star break.—AP 1988. to attend a game at Citi Field. “It was so much fun,” said Harvey, one of The National League lost 3-0 but for a record 39 first-time All-Stars in the game. Harvey it was a night to remember. “This “Just being in the locker room with all the whole experience has just been, you know, Koepka: America’s best young golfer? guys, the whole experience, the Red breathtaking,” he said.—Reuters GULLANE: There’s a reason why Brooks Koepka is medalist’s honors and book his place in the field the match), he didn’t flinch.” the best young American golfer you’ve never heard here. “The kid is impressive in lots of ways,” said Whatever the number, it’s in Mickelson’s pocket of. It has less to do with his game than his passport. teaching pro Butch Harmon, whose son, Claude, now. The left-hander, who won last week at the FINA plans to set open The Florida native has collected four wins, but also works with Koepka when he’s back home in Florida. Scottish Open, made a birdie putt at No. 14 to pull 48 pages of government stamps and almost as “He’s consistent. He’s a fast learner, but he’s smart his side with one in the match-play game, and then water temperature limit many adventures in the last 10 months while play- enough not to try to do things on the golf course upped his game to close the match out at the 17th. ing in 11 different countries. His 2013 season-open- that he doesn’t know how to do. Claude’s been rav- “The chance to pick these guys’ brains on how ROME: Swimming’s governing body is University of Otago in New Zealand, in ing itinerary included India, South Africa and ing about his ball-striking for months. to get around courses like this - where to leave it, preparing to set a fixed maximum water collaboration with the IOC and the Kenya. “More impressive is the route he’s taking. Lots of different ways to play the wind - is going to make temperature that doesn’t meet US stan- International Triathlon Union. And don’t even ask about the horsemeat dinner guys come out of college and if they don’t get me a better player down the road. dards that were introduced after the “They told us 31 and that’s what we in Kazakhstan. Or cobbling together connecting “So it was worth it,” Koepka said. “Almost.” Either death of American swimmer Fran decided on,” FINA executive director flights between Tenerife and Prague. way, he made sure to get his money’s worth. Crippen. Cornel Marculescu told The AP by phone. “The road’s not for everyone,” Koepka said with Koepka played his college golf at Florida State, but At meetings in Barcelona this week, “It’s not a matter of being happy or not a laugh. “You have to get used to being away, and unlike Mickelson, he didn’t set the golf world on being alone. It can be tough. Pretty much all you fire as an amateur. On a family trip to the Masters FINA is about to set an upper limit of 31 happy. It was a scientific study and that’s have is golf. “But getting to see the world at 23,” he some 15 years ago, the then-8-year-old chased degrees Celsius (87.8 Fahrenheit) for what we are following.” added, “that’s pretty cool.” Mickelson out to the parking lot hoping to get an open water events. The limit is expected to be approved The extended road trip became part of a master autograph. USA Swimming set a domestic limit of late yesterday in a vote by a FINA con- plan Koepka hatched after missing the cut at last “He was in a hurry to get to his car,” Koepka 29.45 Celsius (85 Fahrenheit) in the wake gress that is open to two delegates from year’s US Open, then turning pro and failing to get recalled. “He said, ‘Catch me tomorrow.’ I never got of Crippen’s death during a sweltering each of the 203 recognized national through qualifying school for the PGA Tour. Like his the autograph. Reminded him about that a couple 10-kilometer race in the United Arab swimming federations. FINA’s minimum friend and sometimes roommate Peter Uihlein, he of times since.” Emirates in October, 2010. temperature of 16 Celsius (60.8 pounced on the opportunity for four guaranteed “We laughed about that today,” Mickelson said “The safety of our athletes is extreme- Fahrenheit) remains in place. starts on the Challenge Tour, the European tour’s sheepishly, then ticked off a handful of Koepka’s ly important to USA Swimming. When it The world championships open in minor-league circuit. shots from the round that stood out. comes to international open water com- Barcelona on Saturday with the men’s So much so that he and Uihlein have a running “His ball-striking is extremely solid,” Mickelson petition, we would advise our athletes and women’s 5-kilometer open water bet - whoever wins a tournament has to buy a jet Brooks Koepka summed up. “He’s a wonderful putter. I can see why not to compete if the water temperature events in the city’s harbor, just like at the ski for the house they share in Florida. Koepka won he earned his right to get on the European Tour so is above 29.45 degrees,” USA Swimming 2003 worlds in Barcelona. for the first time last September in Spain, and through Q-school, they take the most familiar path quickly.” said in a statement to The Associated “They have already tested the quality instead of being flustered by language and culture, - the mini-tours back home. Over here,” Harmon Yet Koepka’s ambitions hardly end there. He Press on Tuesday. of the water and it is fantastic in the har- he decided to sample them and started ordering continued, “nearly every tournament is in a differ- hopes to play regularly on both major tours, even- “If the athlete does decide to swim, bor,” Marculescu said. More events such off the menu. He earned his European Tour card ent country, with a different language. Just lining tually earning the luxury of picking his spots the USA Swimming will ask them to sign a as the 10K, 25K and team event will fol- after winning three Challenge events already this up visas can be a challenge. It shows a lot of matu- way Mickelson, Tiger Woods and a handful of golf’s waiver and release,” the statement con- low. year, and the mad dash that was necessary for rity in a very short time.” other big stars do. “That’s a long way off,” Koepka tinued. “That being said, our on-site staff Hot water was also an issue at the last Koepka to make it into this British Open pretty You could say the same about the group said, “but it’s been an interesting ride so far. I’ve much encapsulates his brief pro career. Koepka joined for his practice round Tuesday. He seen more crazy weather in a few months than I’d will carry out their normal roles as long worlds in Shanghai two years ago, when After capturing the Scottish Hydro Challenge and Dustin Johnson played Phil Mickelson and seen before in my entire life. as US athletes are competing regardless the 25K race continued even though the near Inverness in late June, Koepka decided to try Rickie Fowler in what’s generally acknowledged as “Some of the adventures have been good, some of conditions.” Previously, FINA had only water temperature climbed above the qualifying in London. The original plan was to drive the tour’s most competitive - and expensive - pre- not so good. I miss my family and friends some- a suggested limit of 30 degrees Celsius supposed safe point. Ten of the 29 men all the way, but the car blew a tire late at night near tournament round. times, and once or twice, I’ve been sick of playing (86 Fahrenheit). who started the race dropped out, Edinburgh. Koepka caught a few hours’ sleep in a “That’s another thing about him,” said Harmon, golf. “But if you’re looking for a little bit of flavor to FINA’s technical open water swim- including defending champion Valerio hotel, then a 6:30 a.m. flight to Heathrow Airport, who counts Johnson among his clients, has worked go with your game,” he said, motioning over his ming committee recommended the new Cleri of Italy, as did four of the 21 female arriving at Sunningdale Golf Club with just enough with Mickelson and tagged along with the group. shoulder at the scudding gray clouds rolling across limit Tuesday following a study by the starters.—AP time to stretch. Even so, he shot 69-65 to take “When they told Brooks the number (the ante for Muirfield, “this is awfully tough to beat.”—AP THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 SPORTS

Al-Qadsiya thrash Tabriz, Al-Sadd roll

By Abdellatif Sharaa

KUWAIT: Kuwait Mini World Futsal Club Tournament witnessed a different per- formance by Kuwait’s Al-Qadsiya which scored 11 goals against Iran’s Tabriz, which managed to score 3 goals. Al- Qadsiya gave itself a very good opportu- nity to move into the quarter finals with its three points after losing its first match. Qatar’s Al-Sadd went past Croatia’s Colonial with a score of 4-2. Qadsiya was able to control the match from the onset and gained the support of the crowd as it recovered from its loss in the first match against Cardinal and got in position to move to the quarterfinals with one match remaining in the group, which will be against Al-Sadd. Qadisiya struck quickly and scored its first goal just one minute into the match through Tyago Almida minute saw Qadsiya’s Rafael de Souza sixth goal and dampened hopes of were able to gain control early and its ond goal in the 32nd minute through whose strong shot gave his teammates score, which excited the fans who were Tabriz. Tabriz were able to score through players were able to cover the field well Xavier, prompting Colonial to regroup yet another burst of confidence while expecting more, and they were obliged a free kick by Shamsaee which goalkeep- and its player Mohammad Ismail was and they succeeded in scoring the first Tabriz players seemed to be in shock and two minutes later after Rafael made the er Victor was not able to block. Once able to score in the 2nd minute. The goal through Mango in the 34th minute, became nervous and committed several score 4-0. The second half saw Qadisiya again Qadisiya did not wait long before rhythm of the match went up in the sec- raising its hopes of a draw and got what mistakes, particularly in their defence. return with the same strength and its player Martinez scored the 8th goal in ond half as Colonial entered the half it wanted in the 34th minute by the Qadsiya’s attempts on Tabriz’s goal scored early, Tyago making the fans go the 29th minute and added the 9th goal enthusiastically but Al-Sadd maintained same player as he benefitted from a con- continued until Gomez scored the sec- into a frenzy of joy. in the 31st minute before Tabriz scored its strong performance and attacks were fused Sadd defence. Al-Sadd felt the ond goal in the 8th minute, making it The Iranian team attempted to its third goal through Mehran Reza in exchanged as Al-Sadd players were danger and pressured strongly until harder for Tabriz which was far from the regroup through attempts by its player the 37th minute. Qadsiya answered with shooting from a distance while Colonial Amro Mohsen scored in the 38th minute. form it showed in its first match, and Waheed Shamsaee and was able to score the 10th and 11th goals in the 39th attempted to penetrate from the middle Vlavio then sealed the win in the 39th allowed Qadsiya players to attack from through Rasheed, yet Qadisiya quickly minute. In the second match Al-Sadd and threatened Al-Sadd’s goal several minute. Al-Sadd has four points and is the sides and the middle. The 14th answered through Rafael who added the began the match with confidence and times. Al-Sadd was able to score its sec- on top of its group. Blake ruled out of worlds

KINGSTON: World 100 metres champion Yohan Blake will not defend his title at next month’s World Athletics Championships in Moscow due to a nagging ham- string injury, his manager said on Tuesday. The 23-year-old Jamaican suffered the injury at the Utech Classic in Kingston in April and missed last month’s Jamaican trials but had qualified for the 100m in Moscow as defending champion. “This decision was made after continual assessment and re-evalu- ations since his withdrawal from the Jamaican Senior Championships,” Cubie Seegobin GULLANE: Northern Ireland golfer Rory McIlroy plays from the 15th tee during a told Reuters. practice session at Muirfield golf course. —AFP “Yohan has made vast improve- ment, although the injury sus- McIlroy hits back at critics tained in April of this year has pre- vented him from attaining the nec- ahead of the British Open essary fitness levels that we have grown accustomed to seeing in his GULLANE: Rory McIlroy struck back at critics know, it doesn’t bother me. I’m in a good competition performances.” yesterday, insisting his game was “heading in place.” Blake won the world 100m title the right direction” on the eve of the British The man who deposed McIlroy as world in Daegu, South Korea, in 2011 fol- Open and asking “what’s the big deal?” about number one, his close friend Tiger Woods, lowing the disqualification of com- patriot Usain Bolt for a false start. his recent slump. The world number two from had some words of comfort for him on Yohan Blake gets off the block in this file photo. Northern Ireland has failed to win a tourna- Tuesday, recalling that he had endured simi- Meanwhile, the Jamaica Anti- ment all year after changing his management lar struggles early in his career. Doping Commission (JADCO) will Powell and Simpson said on the primary school level,” Simpson- positive tests in writing last week. company and deciding to switch equipment “He (Woods) set the bar so high and that’s be step up its education and test- Sunday they had tested positive for Miller said in Jamaica’s Parliament One, a junior athlete, is yet to con- stimulant Oxilofrine (methyl- on Tuesday. firm the notification of the doping providers, from Titleist to Nike. the expectations that everyone thought he ing programmes following five ath- synephrine) at the Jamaican “We need to initiate a system for violation. She said all five had until Some pundits have suggested his high- was going to live up to,” McIlroy said. letes, including Olympic medallists Asafa Powell and Sherone Simpson, national championships last high school level testing for ath- July 19 to indicate whether they profile relationship with tennis star Caroline “And it was only a couple of years ago that testing positive for banned sub- month. Discus thrower Allison letes involved in training and com- want their ‘B’ sample tested, though Wozniacki may also be contributing to his he had dropped outside the top 50 in the stances, the country’s Prime Randall said on Monday she had petition in sport, in accordance one had already said they would like decline. world. And he’s worked his way back up. And Minister said. also tested positive at the champi- with appropriate approvals from the second sample analysed. Powell Fans are desperate for the Ulsterman, a he’s now the best player in the world again.” Portia Simpson-Miller, who is onships. All have denied knowingly the Ministry of Education, ISSA and Simpson’s agent Paul Doyle told golfing prodigy who in 2012 became the McIlroy defended his decision to change also the country’s Minister for taken banned substances. (Inter-econdary School Sports Reuters earlier this week his two youngest player to win two majors since Seve all his equipment at the same time rather Sports, added the country’s anti- “We (JADCO) intend to ramp up Association) and the parents and clients would ask for their ‘B’ sam- Ballesteros in 1980, to rediscover his form. than do it incrementally. “I don’t mind maybe doping body had uncovered 15 the public education programme in guardians of these youngsters.” ples to be tested. JADCO could also “You’re going to go through highs and not playing your best golf for six months. It positive tests from 860 samples in the high schools and commence Simpson-Miller said JADCO had ask for the ‘B’ sample to be analysed, you’re going to go through lows. It’s just isn’t a huge sacrifice in a 30-year career,” he the past four years. the sensitization programmes at notified the five athletes of their Simpson-Miller added. —Reuters about trying to work your way out of the said. lows,” McIlroy told a press conference at The tinkering continues as McIlroy will Muirfield. have a new driver in the bag this week. “It’s a Trainer: I’m ‘scapegoat’ for Powell and Simpson “It’s been difficult to try, I guess, explain different head shape. More of a pear shape, why I’m not playing well or why I haven’t had but it encourages the club face to close over a DENVER: The trainer for Asafa Powell and their therapist, bartender or anyone else,” says in a phone interview. “Now they change their the results that I’ve wanted over the past six little bit more,” he said, adding that it was Sherone Simpson has insisted he didn’t give the the email, which details Xuereb’s relationship supplements and the first time they get tested, months. But I know that I’m working on the designed to eliminate loose tee shots out sprinters performance-enhancing drugs and with the sprinters. “Athletes keep using the same they have a positive test? It has to be something right things and I know that I’m doing the right that have been dogging his game. says it’s time for them to take “responsibility for story, which is to blame the scapegoat for their in those new supplements that has caused it. right things and I’m staying patient. Asked what shape his golf was in general- their doping instead of looking around for a own wrongdoing.” Chris is the one that provided those. “And I know sooner or later it will turn ly, he replied: “Promising. I think that’s the scapegoat.” Earlier Tuesday, Italian police formally placed “We’re not saying he did anything deliberate, around and I’ll play the golf that everyone word. It’s promising. It’s definitely heading in In a statement The Associated Press received Powell, Simpson and Xuereb under criminal but it’s in those supplements.” In the email state- knows that I’m capable of and the golf that I the right direction and I’m excited for the on Tuesday from one of two email accounts for investigation for violating the country’s doping ment from Xuereb’s account, he is quoted as say- know that’s capable of winning major cham- next few weeks.” Chris Xuereb, the trainer is quoted as saying he laws. The move came a day after Italian police ing he “did not provide any banned or illegal pionships.” McIlroy fended off what he regard- McIlroy said the challenges of links golf, has done nothing wrong since the Jamaicans confiscated unidentified substances in a raid on substances to Asafa Powell or Sherone Simpson.” ed as unwarranted advice from major winners particularly on bone-dry Muirfield where the hired him in May to provide massage therapy the hotel where the three were staying in the The statement says all the vitamins Xuereb and nutritional help. northeastern town of Lignano Sabbiadoro, fol- provided to the sprinters were found to be legal Nick Faldo and Tony Jacklin on the eve of the run of the ball and the angles of the slopes Powell, the former 100-meter record holder, lowing the athletes’ positive tests. by Italian police. “I do not know what these ath- Open. are key, might help people swing more freely. and Simpson, a three-time Olympic medalist, Police told the AP the raids were executed letes were taking in addition to what I suggested Faldo said he should focus 100 percent on “You’re not really thinking about many tested positive for the stimulant oxilofrine at the after a tip from the World Anti-Doping Agency. to them,” the statement said. “Although I sug- golf, while Jacklin said he needed to play swing shots. You’re thinking about shot Jamaican championships last month. Doyle said he and the sprinters worked in con- gested certain vitamins to these athletes, it is more tournaments. “It seems like a few guys shapes, you’re thinking about ball flights, Their agent, Paul Doyle, contends something junction with WADA on the raid after becoming ultimately the athlete’s responsibility to accept have forgotten in a short space of time how where the ball will land, what it’s going to do in the new supplements the sprinters were tak- suspicious that Xuereb might have given them or reject my suggestion. “Unfortunately, it hard you have to work and how tough this when it hits the ground. ing caused it and “Chris is the one that provided supplements laced with a banned substance. appears that these athletes were not solely fol- game can be,” McIlroy said. “In that way it will probably free a lot of those.” Doyle also said Powell and Simpson were aware lowing my suggestions or WADA’s guidelines. Asked what he thought about all the criti- players up because you’re so concentrated on The email quotes Xuereb as saying he was of the impending raid, but Xuereb was kept out These guidelines are in place so all athletes can cism he was getting, the 24-year-old reigning playing a certain shot rather than making a disappointed the athletes are blaming him for of the loop. have a clean sport. Both athletes are clearly look- US PGA champion replied: “What’s the big swing.” McIlroy tees off today alongside four- their violations. “It is time the athletes took “Asafa and Sherone have been tested more ing for a scapegoat. I am confident, and I have deal? I haven’t had the best six months, but time major champion Phil Mickelson and responsibility for their doping instead of looking than 100 times each through their career ... and also spoken to researchers and the police, that I it’s okay. I’m fine. I’ve got a good life. So, you Japanese rising star Hideki Matsuyama.—AFP around for a scapegoat, whether that person is never turned in a positive test,” Doyle told the AP have done nothing wrong.”—AP THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 SPORTS

Bravo brothers help Photo of the day Windies beat Pakistan PROVIDENCE: Pakistan returned to their “Given the nature of the pitch, I thought self-destructive ways as West Indies com- 230-235 would have been a good total,” pleted a 37-run victory in the second One- said a relieved Dwayne Bravo after he com- Day International at the Guyana National pleted victory with the last two wickets off Stadium on Tuesday. consecutive deliveries. Solid contributions by the Bravo broth- “We really needed this win to get some ers, Darren and Dwayne, boosted the West confidence back and we can’t forget the Indies batting effort after they had gotten fans, because they are the ones who suffer off to the worst possible start when giant the most when we play as badly as we did left-arm fast bowler Mohammed Irfan had last Sunday.” Chris Gayle caught at the wicket in the first Shahid Afridi, the undoubted star of that over of the day. opening encounter, claimed two wickets, Two days after demolishing the hosts by as did Saeed Ajmal, the pair of slow 126 runs, the visitors folded for 195 off 47.5 bowlers threatening to stifle the home overs in reply to the Caribbean side’s total team as they did so effectively two days of 232 for eight after they were put in on a earlier. Afridi could not replicate his heroics pitch expected to offer considerable assis- with the bat however, one wild swing too tance to the bowlers following the previous many bringing about his demise via a day’s torrential rain. stumping. Pakistan appeared to be cruising along Darren Bravo and Johnson Charles (31) at 103 for two with skipper Misbah-ul-Haq counter-attacked either side of a break well entrenched and opener Nasir Jamshed before rain following Gayle’s swift demise, (54) riding his considerable luck towards a the pair putting on 79 runs for the second half-century. But Misbah played a shot wicket. The runs then dried up during the totally out of character to be bowled by middle of the innings with Bravo and Darren Sammy, a fitting reward for the all- Marlon Samuels struggling to get the ball rounder playing his 100th ODI. away. That dismissal was followed by a succes- It took the arrival of the batting power- sion of poor shots and with spinner Sunil play to change the complexion of the Narine returning to wicket-taking form in innings as wickets fell in a rush, only for snaring four for 26 to claim the “Man of the Kieron Pollard (30) to finally provide some Match” award, a rearguard 50 by wicket- stability and acceleration with his captain, keeper-batsman Umar Akmal proved to be the pair taking the West Indies from the too little, too late for Pakistan. uncertainty of 150 for five in the 39th over With the series now level, the teams to 220 when Pollard was bowled by Asad Toma Coconea and Martin Freinademetz perform during the Red Bull Man Against Machine at Lake Balea. —www.redbullcontentpool.com travel on to St Lucia for the remaining three Ali in the penultimate over. matches, beginning on Friday, before the “Our bowlers didn’t use the moisture in short tour concludes with two T20 matches the pitch well,” said Misbah in the aftermath in St Vincent on July 27 and 28. Darren of defeat. “The pitch then got slower and Bravo’s top score of 54 paced his team lower so it made life really difficult for us Heat is on for Australia through the first half of the innings while when we batted. We didn’t help our cause skipper Dwayne Bravo provided vital impe- by some bad shots.” tus in holding the latter half of the innings Conditions are expected to be more together with an unbeaten 43 that proved batsman friendly when battle is resumed at to level series at Lord’s critical in helping the Caribbean side to a the Beausejour Stadium in what is effec- challenging score. tively now a best-of-three contest.—AFP LONDON: Australia will be greeted Michael Clarke in the first innings by blazing sunshine and a venue with the perfect delivery, a ball where they lost only once last centu- which swung late into the batsman ry when they arrive at Lord’s today then evaded the outside edge to hit for the second Ashes Test against the top of the off-stump. England determined to level the five- The second key wicket was the match series. final ball of the match which vice- Britain is engulfed in a heat wave captain Brad Haddin, whose gritty 71 which is forecast to last throughout had threatened to snatch victory the match and conditions for the first from England’s grasp, edged to Matt test at Trent Bridge were reminiscent Prior. of the Indian sub-continent. Australia will relish the sun and After heroic last-wicket stands in the surroundings at the home of each innings, Australia eventually world cricket. To recover from one- lost by 14 runs on Sunday. But they down and regain the Ashes, though, will be buoyed by the resilience and their top-order batting must fire and resource they showed at the mid- Usman Khawaja may come in at point of a horrible year in which they number three to replace the out-of- have been beaten 4-0 in India and form Ed Cowan. failed to advance past the first round “He had a tough game,” said new LONDON: England captain Alastair Cook (right) talks with Chris of the Champions Trophy. The tour- coach Darren Lehmann. “We’ve told Tremlett during a training session at Lord’s cricket ground in north ing side’s cause was hardly advanced Ed how we want him to play and London, ahead of the second Test match against Australia.—AFP with news on Tuesday that their for- how we want him to bat. That cer- man of comparable pedigree is the man and play five specialist bowlers mer South African coach Mickey tainly hasn’t changed from when he highly gifted but perennially frustrat- with off-spinner Nathan Lyon joining GUYANA: West Indies batsman Johnson Charles (right) is stumped by Pakistan wick- Arthur, who was sacked 16 days first came into the side. ing Shane Watson who contributed Ashton Agar. Agar, who fell two short et-keeper Umar Akmal (left) off bowler Shahid Afridi for 31 runs during the 2nd ODI before the Trent Bridge test, had “He’ll be disappointed with the 46 to a second-innings opening part- on his debut of becoming the first match. —AFP alleged he was the victim of discrimi- shots. So are we. “We’ve certainly got nership of 84. number 11 in test history to make a nation and was demanding rein- to bat better as a top order, that’s Australia urgently need an century, took two for 82 from 35 statement or $3.6 million compensa- probably the key. We’re going to innings from Watson of a stature to overs in the second innings with his SCOREBOARD tion. bowl very well and we know we can match his talent and Lord’s would be left-arm orthodox spin. Despite the narrow margin in control their batters. It’s a matter of the perfect setting to shrug off the In contrast to Australia’s fragile Nottingham, England were ultimate- making more runs.” under-achiever’s tag. top order, England’s key batsmen PROVIDENCE, Guyana: Final scoreboard of the second One-Day International between the West Indies and Pakistan at the Guyana National Stadium on Tuesday: ly deserved winners and James Clarke, who enjoyed a wondrous But he will be under even more scored runs at critical times at Trent Anderson at the height of his powers 2012 with 1,595 runs at an average pressure after it was reported in Bridge. Jonathan Trott contributed West Indies Mohammad Hafeez c Simmons b Narine 20 produced the decisive deliveries of of precisely 106, failed in both C. Gayle c wkpr Akmal b Irfan 1 Misbah-ul-Haq b Sammy 17 Australia that Arthur had claimed 48 to their modest first-innings 215 J. Charles stpd wkpr Akmal b Afridi 31 Asad Shafiq c Holder b Samuels 10 the game to account for two of his innings after his buildup was ham- Clarke had described his former vice- and captain Alastair Cook (50) laid a D.M. Bravo b Saeed Ajmal 54 Umar Akmal c Samuels b D.J. Bravo 50 10 wickets. pered by a chronic back ailment. captain as “a cancer” in the side. solid foundation in the second with M. Samuels b Saeed Ajmal 21 Shahid Afridi stpd wkpr Charles b Narine 5 Anderson removed captain The only other Australian bats- Another option is to drop a bats- Kevin Pietersen (64).—Reuters L. Simmons c wkpr Akmal b Afridi 10 Wahab Riaz b Narine 3 D.J. Bravo not out 43 Saeed Ajmal c Sammy b Narine 1 K. Pollard b Asad Ali 30 Asad Ali c Pollard b D.J. Bravo 2 D. Sammy run out 3 Mohammad Irfan not out 0 Arthur sues CA over dismissal K. Roach run out 0 Extras (3lb, 11w) 14 S. Narine not out 1 Extras (5b, 11lb, 21w, 1nb) 38 Total (10 wickets, 47.5 overs) 195 SYDNEY: Mickey Arthur is taking legal action Total (8 wickets, 50 overs) 232 Fall of wickets: 1-37 (Ahmed Shehzad), 2-64 against Cricket Australia, claiming that his dis- Fall of wickets: 1-2 (Gayle), 2-81 (Charles), 3- (Mohammad Hafeez), 3-103 (Misbah-ul-Haq), missal as national coach involved racial discrimi- 123 (D.M. Bravo), 4-137 (Samuels), 5-150 4-122 (Asad Shafiq), 5-137 (Nasir Jamshed), 6- nation. (Simmons), 6-220 (Pollard), 6-226 (Sammy), 7- 151 (Shahid Afridi), 7-162 (Wahab Riaz), 8-164 Arthur - a white South African who became 226 (Roach). (Saeed Ajmal), 9-195 (Umar Akmal), 10-195 the first foreign head coach of Australia’s team Did not bat: J. Holder. (Asad Ali). when he was appointed in 2011 - was fired last Bowling: Mohammad Irfan 10-0-38-1 (2w, Bowling: Roach 6-4-14-1, Holder 7-2-30-0 (3w), month because he failed to turn around declin- 1nb), Asad Ali 6-1-35-1 (2w), Saeed Ajmal 10-0- Narine 10-1-26-4 (1w), Sammy ing standards of discipline in the team. He was 45-2 (4w), Mohammad Hafeez 7-0-32-0, 10-0-46-1 (1w), Samuels 7-0-32-1 (2w), Pollard Wahab Riaz 7-0-37-0 (3w), Shahid Afridi 10-0- replaced by former Australia test batsman 6-0-35-1, D.J. Bravo 1.5-0-9-2. 29-2 (1w). Darren Lehmann. Result: West Indies won by 37 runs Lawyers for Arthur confirmed the action on Pakistan Man of the Match: D.J. Bravo Tuesday, after local media reported that the for- Nasir Jamshed c Roach b Pollard 54 Series level 1-1 mer South Africa coach is seeking up to $4 mil- Ahmed Shehzad c wkpr Charles b Roach 19 Next match: July 19 - St Lucia lion in compensation or his job back with Cricket Australia. In a statement issued through a law firm, MCC backs Chappell’s call Arthur said he was upset that a private matter that was filed last week with Sydney’s Fair Work for boards to take over DRS Commission (FWC) had been made public. “We can confirm that last week Mickey Arthur LONDON: The world cricket committee of Nottingham down mainly to basic human filed proceedings on a number of grounds ... for Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) yesterday error, and called for its use across all inter- being sacked and scapegoated,” the statement backed a call from former Australia captain national matches. said. “The grounds include racial discrimination. Ian Chappell for the sport’s authorities to Cricket powerhouse India has long This legal action was filed confidentially with Mickey Arthur take complete control of the controversial objected to DRS and, consequently, it plays FWC as Mickey was at pains to resolve this issue actions, but said after a training session in Watson told him about the incident in which Decision Review System (DRS). no part in bilateral matches involving the privately.” London on Tuesday that there was no problem Australia opener David Warner punched DRS came under fire during England’s Asian giants. For his part, Arthur added: “I am extremely with team harmony. England batsman Joe Root during the dramatic 14-run win against Australia in the “It (the decision) was a unanimous view upset and disappointed that confidential docu- “I can’t remember for a long time the team Champions Trophy. Arthur was fired shortly after first Ashes Test at Trent Bridge last week. of all members of the World Cricket ments appear to have been given by others to being as united as we are right now,” Clarke was the incident and Warner was subsequently fined England were incensed when third Committee present at its meeting that the the media. The matters raised in my application quoted as saying. “And it is no coincidence and suspended. umpire Marais Erasmus, on the field at Decision Review System works, and to the FWC concerning issues within the (Lehmann) played a big part in that. As a man, as “We’re disappointed it has come to this posi- Lord’s for this week’s second Test, over- undoubtedly helps the umpires to bring Australian cricket team are very sensitive, which a gentleman, he brings that to the forefront.” tion, but Cricket Australia is confident in its posi- turned Aleem Dar’s not out lbw verdict about more correct decisions on the field,” is why I was at pains to keep them confidential, Earlier, a Seven Network television report cit- tion on this matter and I’m sure it will get against Jonathan Trott, despite not having said a MCC statement released after a two- especially at this time. I have kept them confi- ed court documents it says show Arthur is seek- resolved in an appropriate fashion,” CA lawyer the full range of DRS replays available to day meeting at Lord’s. dential. Unfortunately, others have now made ing payments and compensation to the end of Dean Kino told Seven. him. It later emerged that as the host “The committee was unanimous in its them public.” his 2015 contract. His salary was reportedly Arthur guided Australia to 10 wins, six losses broadcaster was using the side-on Hot opinion that it was the poor implementa- The lawyers also said that a “confidential con- $400,000 per year plus some $200,000 a year in and three draws from his appointment in Spot replay to look at the dismissal of Joe tion of DRS (at Trent Bridge) that led to the ciliation between the parties has been sched- bonuses. Arthur, who was praised for the humili- November 2011, but he polarized public opinion Root the ball before, it was not available to controversies, rather than the system itself. uled for next week.” The news was leaked two ty he showed after he was suddenly fired last when he dropped four players - including then Erasmus when the Trott decision was “Human error will always play a part in days before Australia takes on England in the month, has now been criticized by former vice-captain Watson - for the third test in India referred to him. the game for both players and umpires but second Ashes test at Lord’s, and only two days Australia players including Shane Warne for the for failing to complete written reports on their Australians were not alone in thinking it the DRS is successful in limiting this. after the Australians lost a tension-filled series- timing of the action and the revelations con- individual contributions to the team’s perform- wrong a system brought in to overturn the “With the DRS, more correct decisions opening match by 14 runs at Nottingham. tained in it. ance. The embarrassing saga was quickly umpiring “howler” or major error was are being made and so the committee Arthur’s FWC application reportedly contained Seven said Arthur claims he was discriminat- dubbed “Homeworkgate.” Watson left India unavailable to the tourists when England’s strongly reiterates its desire to see the uni- insider details of a divisive split between captain ed against because he was from South Africa before returning a week later to captain the Stuart Broad was given not out, despite versal implementation of the system in Michael Clarke and allrounder Shane Watson, and did not understand the Australian way. team in the fourth test after Clarke was sidelined edging the ball to slip, because by then international cricket matches. confirming rumors that have swirled around the The court documents also show Arthur saw with injury. He has since stood down as vice- they had used up both their innings “A further benefit from universal use team for months and that could have been himself as the “meat in the sandwich” amid a captain and, for the Ashes tour, veteran Brad reviews. The MCC panel, made up mainly of would be the ownership of the whole responsible for Watson’s decision to quit as vice- fierce feud between Clarke and Watson, Seven Haddin was recalled as Clarke’s deputy despite eminent former players, insisted DRS was process by ICC rather than by television captain of the national team. reported. not being the first-choice wicketkeeper in more fundamentally sound, with problems in companies.”—AFP Clarke declined to comment on Arthur’s The network added that Arthur also alleged than a year.—AP THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 SPORTS19 Wage delays push players to seek aid in Portugal

OEIRAS: Delays in wage payments by will happen again next season.” Portugal’s credit crunch and the declared insolvent. ball that UEFA promotes and that the cash-strapped football clubs in Filipe Falardo, a midfielder who was deepest recession since the 1970s Around 30 out-of-contract players Portuguese League wants? Enough is Portugal have forced dozens of players at Benfica and won nine caps for under an international bailout have are taking part in a training camp enough,” he said. to ask their union for money for rent Portugal’s youth teams but later made it even harder. However, a organised by the union at the Estadio Evangelista also blamed shortcom- and food, said the head of the coun- dropped to second-tier clubs, said the Vitoria de Setubal spokesman said Nacional, just outside Lisbon. ings in FIFA’s financial fair play requi- try’s players’ association. Millions of problem was a recurring one. Evangelista’s comments on salary Their mood seems sombre and the sites for worsening the plight of some euros flow through the coffers of top “I’ve suffered it (salary delays) first delays only hurt clubs and the sport in feisty tackles signal some level of the players, saying while the rules were clubs like Porto and Benfica, but hand. I’ve had to go to court because Portugal. frustration they hope to end by catch- welcomed, clubs could abuse some Joaquim Evangelista, head of the clubs don’t fulfil their deals. It happens “I’m surprised by Evangelista’s com- ing the eye of the scouts watching. loopholes. Portuguese Association of Professional every year,” said the 29-year-old. ments... Setubal likes to solve its mat- “Football players are often labelled Portuguese clubs have a summer Footballers, warned the depth of the Evangelista, also a board member of ters internally, we explained our rea- as millionaires but at the end of the deadline to show they have paid all country’s national sport is under threat world players’ union FIFPro, blames sons and I regret that he made such a day that doesn’t really happen,” said salaries to be able to play next season. due to poor management at smaller blind ambition and poor management public statement,” the spokesman former Benfica hopeful Falardo. They can submit pay slips or have play- teams. for disrupting the lives of players and said. “Maybe the bigger clubs do pay big ers sign a declaration saying every- “The vast majority of professional their families. “We consider the matter over. We salaries but the others don’t.” thing is in order. clubs in Portugal had salary delays last “Most Portuguese clubs live far work with maximum discretion to Outside of Benfica, Porto, Sporting Evangelista said many players had season, with six-month delays in the beyond their means and don’t make solve the problems that unfortunately and Braga, footballers in Portugal earn, no choice but to sign the declaration most extreme cases,” Evangelista, told an effort to adjust,” he said. “On the we have. It’s not easy in any sector in on average, between 2,000 and 3,000 even if they had not received all due Reuters in an interview. contrary, they think: ‘If I’m successful, Portugal these days.” In one of the euros a month so payment delays can salaries. “This has led to Portuguese and for- I’ll collect revenues later so I’ll take that most extreme cases, Uniao Leiria in cause havoc in their personal lives. “Players want to keep their jobs, to eign players being unable to pay their risk’.” Portuguese clubs such as 2012 fielded eight players for a top Evangelista said that by the end of play, to get the money they are owed. rent and food, surviving thanks to our Olhanense, Naval, Vitoria de Setubal flight-match after 16 players filed col- 2012 his union had distributed over They sign off because there is no other union,” Evangelista said. “The situation and Vitoria de Guimaraes were some lective resignation letters over late 350,000 euros in support to hard-up choice, otherwise they will be pun- is getting worse. I alert you that delays of those hit by financial troubles. wages. The club has since been players. “Is this the professional foot- ished.” he said.—Reuters Chelsea bid for Rooney, take a swipe at United

BANGKOK: Chelsea said yesterday they had made a bid for Manchester United star Wayne Rooney, which has reportedly been rejected despite growing signs the England striker is unhappy at Old Trafford. The London club took the unusual step of confirming a bid-for an undisclosed sum-after British reports said Juan Mata or David Luiz had been offered as a make- weight. “Chelsea Football Club can confirm that yesterday it made a written offer to Manchester United for the transfer of Wayne Rooney,” said a club statement sent to AFP. “Although the terms of the offer are confi- dential, for avoidance of doubt and contrary to what is apparently being briefed to the press in Lionel Messi Sydney, the proposed purchase price does not include the transfer or loan of any players from Chelsea to Manchester United,” it said. Messi confident advisers The wording of the statement takes an appar- ent swipe at Manchester United, who are cur- will resolve tax problems rently in Sydney during their pre-season tour with a large contingent of British journalists. BARCELONA: Lionel Messi is optimistic 2005, told a post-training news confer- It follows reports that Chelsea offered £10 his advisers will be able to sort out his tax ence on Wednesday, his first since million (11.5 million euros, $15.1 million) for problems after he and his father were returning from holiday. Rooney, with either midfielder Juan Mata or accused of defrauding the Spanish “I never take care of that stuff myself defender David Luiz thrown in. authorities last month. and neither does my father,” the 26-year- Rooney’s future has been the subject of con- siderable speculation since May, when depart- The Argentine World Player of the old added. “We have our lawyers and our ing United manager Alex Ferguson said he had Wayne Rooney Year and his father Jorge, who both wealth managers to take care of that and asked for a transfer. The statement was denied denied wrongdoing, allegedly hid more we trust them and they will sort this out. by Rooney. However, the England striker has 38-trophy reign. Rio Ferdinand at a book shop. than 4 million euros ($5.3 million) by fil- “The truth is that I don’t have a clue also refused to confirm his plans and the rumor Meanwhile, while frenzied discussions over The price of the meeting was the A$40 ing false tax returns for the years 2006 to about all this and that is why we have mill went into overdrive when he left United’s the future of Wayne Rooney and possible trans- ($36.93) purchase of a copy of the central 2009. The prosecutor’s office for tax people taking care of it.” Messi is one of Asian tour on the first day after picking up a fer targets swirled around the Internet, it was defender’s new book “Rio, my decade as a Red” crimes in Catalonia said the sale of the world’s highest-paid athletes and minor hamstring injury. business as usual for Manchester United on their and the red-shirted fans were more than happy Messi’s image rights had been hidden via earns just over $20 million a season in Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho poured fuel on lucrative trip to Australia yesterday. to pay it. “It’s fantastic to see the fans getting the a complex web of shell companies in wages and bonuses, according to Forbes the fire by admitting he admired Rooney “very, After training, most of the squad opted for a chance to meet the players and so on,” said Uruguay, Belize, Switzerland and the magazine. He also pulls in about $21 mil- very much”, forcing Manchester United manager round of golf, whale watching on the Pacific Mark O’Connor, chairman of the Manchester United Kingdom. lion in endorsements from sponsors David Moyes to repeat his assertion that the Ocean or a trip to Sydney’s Taronga Zoo as they United Supporters Club New South Wales, “I am very calm,” Rosario-born Messi, including Adidas, PepsiCo and P&G and player is not for sale. “It’s hard to keep repeating continue the build-up to Saturday’s second clutching his copy. “I’m not getting much sleep who has been resident in Barcelona since is 10th on Forbes’ latest list of top-earn- myself but I will do-Wayne’s a Manchester match of their pre-season tour. at the moment ... it shows the rest of the world 2000 and gained Spanish citizenship in ing athletes.—Reuters United player and will remain that,” Moyes said. That the match, against an A-League All Star that Man U is as big Down Under as it is on the But on Tuesday Rooney was reported to be XI captained by Brett Emerton, is already an other side.” “angry and confused” about separate comments 84,000 sell-out is testament to the interest the While the club’s motivation for the five- from Moyes indicating that he would be used as English champions have attracted on their first match pre-season tour is clear — get in touch back-up to fellow striker Robin van Persie next visit to Australia since 1999. with their fans in the Asia-Pacific and bank a few season. News of Chelsea’s bid broke as In fact, with 17,000 of the 20,000 tickets avail- million dollars — the traffic is not all one way. Mourinho began his second spell in charge with able to watch United’s training session on Friday Soccer has long trailed rugby league in New a friendly in Bangkok against the Singha All-Star already snapped up, a bigger crowd was expect- South Wales, Australian Rules in Victoria as well XI. The same team handed Moyes a losing start ed for that than most games in the powerhouse as rugby union nationwide in the pecking order to his Manchester United reign when they National Rugby League (NRL), a Football of football codes. But the arrival of United and shocked the Premier League champions 1-0 on Federation Australia (FFA) spokesman pointed Liverpool, who play in Melbourne next week, Saturday. out. There were slim pickings for die-hard United have helped maintain the profile of the round- Mourinho’s Chelsea are rated as the biggest fans keen to make the most of the presence of ball game at the end of a stellar season for the threat to Manchester United’s title defence as their heroes in Sydney on Wednesday, however, local A-League and recent success for the Moyes attempts to follow Ferguson’s 27-year, but a couple of hundred got the chance to meet national team.—Reuters Olimpia aim to spoil Ronaldinho’s dream ASUNCION: Three-times South with Barcelona in 2006. American champions Olimpia stand Atletico set themselves up for between Atletico Mineiro and mercu- Wednesday’s match with a 1-0 win at rial playmaker Ronaldinho winning last year’s Libertadores Cup winners their first Libertadores Cup when they Corinthians in Sao Paulo in the meet in the first leg of the final late Brazilian championship at the week- SWEDEN: Germany’s forward Dzsenifer Marozsan (left) and Norway’s midfielder yesterday. end. Gry Tofte Ims (right) vie for the ball during the UEFA Women’s European The Paraguayans, whose coach “We must bring a good result back Championship Euro 2013 Group B football match. —AFP Ever Almeida was in goal for their last from Paraguay. If we get a draw that two victories in the region’s top club will be good and a victory excellent,” competition in 1990 and 2002, have the Brazilian team’s coach Cuca told Sweden defeat Italy top scorer Juan Manuel Salgueiro reporters back from suspension after he missed Olimpia, who reached their sev- as Finland exit Euros the semi-final. enth final by eliminating Atletico visit the 40,000-capacity Independiente Santa Fe of Colombia, STOCKHOLM: A goal and an assist from second period. Two minutes later, striker Defensores del Chaco cauldron in have to decide between Uruguayan Lotta Schelin helped hosts Sweden beat Schelin got her third goal in three games Asuncion without young Brazil for- Alejandro Silva and Ricardo Italy 3-1 to win their qualifying group after rounding the keeper and then set ward Bernard, whose booking in the Mazacotte in the attacking midfield and cruise into the quarter-finals of the up Sweden’s third goal just before the semi-final victory over Newell’s Old role. European women’s soccer champi- hour with a simple pull-back for Josfin Boys of Argentina earned him a ban, “We’re a step away from our onship. Sweden exploded in the second Oqvist. with Guilherme set to step in. dream. We’re going to face very half, netting three goals in the opening Italy’s Melania Gabbiadini headed However, centre back Rever tough rivals with impressive players 12 minutes to preserve their unbeaten home unmarked to reduce the deficit 12 returns after missing both legs of the like Ronaldinho but we have a very record and top Group A ahead of Italy minutes from time. “We didn’t have semi-final through suspension with united team,” said Olimpia defender who qualified as runners-up. many chances but the ones we got, we veteran former Arsenal midfielder Nelson Benitez. Finland became the first team to exit put away,” Schelin told TV4 in a pitch- Gilberto Silva, like team mate “We must make the most of our the tournament after a 1-1 draw with side interview afteer the Swedes had Ronaldinho a World Cup winner with good run,” he added. The region’s Denmark, who could still go through reached the knockout stage. Brazil in 2002, stepping down. governing body CONMEBOL ruled depending on results in the remaining In Gothenburg, Denmark’s Mia “We’re training hard for these two that Atletico would stage the second games in the other groups. Brogaard struck a deflected 29th-minute matches. There is nothing greater leg July 24 at the Mineirao, the newly Sweden finished on seven points with goal that looked to have booked their than the desire to carry the ‘Galo’ refurbished World Cup stadium in Italy on four aehad of Denmark and place in the knockout stage but Finland (Atletico’s nickname rooster) to the Belo Horizonte, instead of their regu- Finland on two apiece with the Finns equalised when Annica Sjolund rose to title,” Ronaldinho said. lar home ground, the Independencia. heading home due to an inferior goal dif- head home a corner three minutes from “The Libertadores is a competition They are unbeaten in more than 30 ference. time. I haven’t won yet so it’s very impor- home matches at the Independencia An own goal by Italy defender Rafaella Despite their meagre points tally, the PARAGUAY: Ronaldinho (right) of Brazil’s Atletico Mineiro, tant to me,” added Ronaldinho, who but it only holds 23,000 which is Manieri set the Swedes on their way in Danes can qualify as one of the best takes part in a training session behind closed doors at the the seaside town of Halmstad as she third-placed teams depending on results is looking to add the South American below the minimum capacity Sportivo Luqueno field, on the eve of the Copa deflected substitute Therese Sjogran’s in the final matches in Group B and C late club crown to the European required by the competition regula- Libertadores first leg football final against Paraguay’s pass into the net two minutes into the yesterday and today. —Reuters Champions League medal he won tions.—Reuters Olimpia.—AFP Bravo brothers Chelsea bid for help Windies Rooney, take a beat Pakistan swipe at United

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 18 19 Wage delays push players to seek aid in Portugal Page 19

FRANCE: A combination of pictures shows Spain’s Alberto Contador sprinting before the finish line; France’s Jean-Christophe Peraud riding; Czech Republic’s Roman Kreuziger riding; and overall leader’s yellow jersey Britain’s Christopher Froome riding during the seventeenth stage of the 100th edition of the Tour de France cycling race.— AFP Froome tops Contador to win Stage 17

CHORGES: Chris Froome narrowly beat Alberto Contador to Contador overall and 4:51 clear of Contador’s Saxo-Tinkoff now have three grueling days of climbing in the Alps before American rider Tejay van Garderen, who was 10th, was win the 17th stage of the Tour de France in a rainy time-trial teammate, Roman Kreuziger. Mollema is fourth, 6:23 back. Sunday’s nighttime finish on the Champs-Elysees. relieved to finish the stage. “The entire course, any moment and extend his overall lead yesterday. Froome, wearing an aerodynamic black helmet with a Today’s 172.5-kilometer (107-mile) trek from Gap to L’Alpe- you could make a mistake and slip up - it wasn’t just @ one The British rider was slower than Contador on the first part thick yellow stripe down the middle, coughed into his right Huez sees two HC ascents of L’Alpe-Huez - one of the Tour’s point,” he said. “You had to stay calm and focused.” One rider of the undulating 32-kilometer (20-mile) course, from Embrun hand as he prepared to start. When the five-second count- most famed climbs. Both of the ascents are known as HC was in trouble before the stage started. to Chorges in the French Alps, but gained time on the final down finished, Froome puffed his cheeks and rolled down the (Hors Categorie, meaning they are so tough they are consid- French cyclist Jean-Christophe Peraud went for a training section to finish nine seconds ahead of the Spaniard and ramp. ered beyond classification. ride in the morning and fell on a descent. He sustained a small clinch his third stage win of the race. The day after narrowly avoiding a crash when Contador Not only that, there is also a treacherously fast descent fracture to his right shoulder but the team’s medical staff Froome, who has also won two mountain stages, made up fell just in front of him on a long downhill, Froome started from the top of Col de Sarenne - which might make Froome a deemed him fit to ride. for last week when he was edged out by Tony Martin in the cautiously on a circuit that was slippery after some afternoon bit nervous after nearly falling on Tuesday. His miserable day continued when he fell near the end, first time-trial on Stage 11. rain and featured two short, sharp climbs and two quick There are two more HC climbs and two Category 1 ascents landing heavily on the same shoulder. He looked bewildered “This is incredible for me,” Froome said. “This morning I descents. “The first downhill was dangerous and very techni- on Friday, and Saturday finishes with an HC. Yesterday’s route as he sat up on the road, and then clutched his arm as team thought to myself: ‘OK, I’m ready to lose a bit of time because cal, so I didn’t want to take any risks,” Froome said. ascended immediately for 6.4 kilometers (about 4 miles) up members rushed to his aid. Mollema had a scare of his own tomorrow will be very hard.’ So I’m surprised to win.” He was two seconds behind Contador at the first time Cote de Puy-Sanieres, and the first descent featured several near the end when he took a turn too fast and slammed into Bauke Mollema held second place overall for several split. The Spaniard was happy to take more risks and contin- hairpins. After that there was a slightly longer uphill drag up the barriers. Luckily, he was able to control the impact and stages, but Contador took his place with the Dutchman drop- ued to open up a gap. It looked to be Contador’s day, with Cote de Reallon, followed by a longer descent. managed to continue. ping to fourth. Froome 11 seconds behind when reaching the top of the sec- “That’s one of the hardest time-trials I’ve ever done,” said As rain started to fall - a rare sight in itself on what has Joaquin Rodriguez finished the stage in third place, 10 sec- ond climb. Lieuwe Westra, who finished 17th. “I don’t remember any- been a sweltering Tour - Arnold Jeannesson of France lost onds behind Froome - who is 4 minutes, 34 seconds ahead of The Briton then started to claw back the deficit. Riders thing like it.” control and almost hit a metal barrier. — AP US edge Costa Rica, Troubled start for CAF Cuba defeat Belize Champions League JOHANNESBURG: CAF Champions League selected national team and CAF club fixtures, a CONNECTICUT: The United States and 2011 finals. group games kick off this weekend amid secu- crowd limit of 3,000 was generally imposed. topped Group C with a 1-0 win over In the earlier Group C match, rity concerns in Egypt and the banning of a However, even these small attendances did Costa Rica on Tuesday while Cuba Jenier Marquez scored in stoppage Cameroon club. not prevent trouble with Zamalek fans ripping also advanced to the CONCACAF time to seal Cuba’s place in the quar- The clash of Cairo giants Zamalek and Al- out seats and Ahly supporters flinging flares Gold Cup quarter-finals as one of the ter-finals with a 4-0 win over Belize. Ahly has been moved to a Red Sea resort amid on to the pitch. best third-place teams after beating Ariel Martinez had a hat-trick for political turmoil and insecurity in the country. Originally scheduled for late Sunday after- Belize by four goals. Cuba but it was Marquez’s last-gasp And Coton Sport cannot host Sewe San noon, the game in El Gouna has been put back After easy wins over the other two goal that took them through to the Pedro of Ivory Coast because of a FIFA ban on 24 hours for unexplained ‘marketing’ reasons. group opponents, the United States last eight of the Confederation of Cameroon over state interference in the run- Defending champions Ahly have won the were tested for the first time by Costa North, Central American and ning of football. major CAF club competition a record seven Rica in a rematch of their snowy 2014 Caribbean Association Football Orlando Pirates of South Africa are at home times and second-place Zamalek boast five World Cup qualifier in March, which regional tournament. to AC Leopards of Congo and Recreativo titles. They have met four times at the group the Americans also won 1-0. The Cubans needed to win by at Libolo of Angola host Esperance of Tunisia in stage with the ‘Red Devils’ of Ahly winning two Roared on by the home crowd at least four goals to advance as one of other fixtures. and the ‘White Knights’ of Zamalek forcing two Rentschler Field in Connecticut, the the two best third-place teams in Egypt football authorities have cancelled draws. United States were in control for the competition. almost the complete national league in the Ahly reached the last eight through aggre- most of the match and got the break- Cuba led 1-0 at halftime after aftermath of the military toppling of President gate wins over Tusker of Kenya and CA Bizertin through in the 82nd minute when Martinez opened the scoring on 37 Mohamed Morsi. of Tunisia with veteran Emad Moteab scoring They also switched the high-profile four of the six goals. Landon Donovan found Brek Shea minutes then 2-0 midway through Zamalek-Ahly showdown to El Gouna, a holi- Abdoulaye Cisse went one better with five through the middle and he complet- the second when the striker added a day resort renowned for watersports 450 kilo- as Zamalek eliminated Gazelle of Chad, Vita of ed a nice left-footed finish. second. There were just seven min- metres north-east of Cairo. the Democratic Republic of Congo and Saint Costa Rica finished the group in utes left when the 27-year-old But hard-core supporters of both clubs, George of Ethiopia. The game marks the second place on six points and will Martinez finished off his hat-trick. known as ‘ultras’, say they will not respect a African debut of coach Mohamed Youssef after meet Honduras in the quarter-finals, The match was into injury time decision to stage the match behind closed 2012 Champions League winner Hossam El while the United States face El when veteran defender Marquez doors in a tiny stadium. Badry joined a Libyan club. Esperance, champi- Salvador. scored the crucial goal, enabling Champions League organisers CAF have ons once and runners-up twice in the past The United States were the only Cuba to leapfrog Martinique, who warned that any violence will lead to the game three editions, take a proud defensive record team to go through the group stage finished third in Group B, into being cancelled. Most football fixtures in Egypt to Calulo for the match with Libolo Saturday. with three straight wins and are try- Saturday’s quarter-finals against have been played in empty stadiums after The ‘Blood and Gold’ from Tunis did not con- ing to win the Gold Cup for the first Panama. Mexico face Trinidad and more than 70 deaths in post-match Port Said cede a goal in four qualifiers, including two time since 2007 after enduring back- Tobago in the last eight’s other CONNECTICUT: Celso Borges No. 5 of Costa Rica goes up for a head- rioting early last year. against another Angolan outfit, Primeiro to-back defeats to Mexico in the 2009 game. — Reuters er against the United States in the second half during the CONCA- When spectators were permitted to attend Agosto. CAF Gold Cup match at Rentschler Field. —AFP China launches crackdown on pharmaceutical sector Page 22

Dell faces shareholder Business vote on go-private plan Page 26 THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 China’s richest New Egypt govt may promote welfare, not economic reform man says wealth gap not a priority Page 23 Page 25

ALLAHABAD, India: An Indian worker dries vermicelli, used to make a traditional sweet dish popular during the fasting month of Ramadan, yesterday. — AFP Bernanke: Fed flexible on bond buying Fed chief says tapering stimulus ‘not a preset course’

WASHINGTON: Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said yes- The Fed has held overnight interest rates near zero since Dec prepared to employ all its tools, including an increase (in) the pace economy’s strength. Data on Tuesday showed that inflation firmed terday the US central bank still expects to start scaling back its 2008, while more than tripling its balance sheet to about $3.46 tril- of purchases for a time, to promote a return to maximum employ- last month. Hiring in recent months has been relatively strong, massive bond purchase program later this year, but he left open lion with a series of bond purchases. In its third and latest asset ment in a context of price stability,” Bernanke said. although the jobless rate stands at a still-lofty 7.6 percent. However, the option of changing that plan if the economic outlook shifted. purchase program, it has been buying $85 billion in US Treasury Economists expect the Fed to start tapering bond buying at its the government said yesterday groundbreaking for homes fell to a While sticking closely to a timeline to wind down the bond buying and mortgage-related bonds each month to drive down borrow- meeting in September. While the end of the Fed’s bond buying may 10-month low. In addition, retail sales were weak in June, and sec- that he first outlined last month, Bernanke went out of his way to ing costs and spur investment and hiring. Bernanke set off a brief be in view, Bernanke repeated that officials will keep rates near zero ond-quarter GDP growth is expected to come in at around a dismal stress that nothing was set in stone. “Our asset purchases depend but fierce global market sell-off last month when he outlined plans at least until the unemployment rate falls to 6.5 percent, as long as 1 percent annual rate, painting a very mixed picture for Fed policy- on economic and financial developments, but they are by no to reduce this quantitative easing program, and he has joined a inflation remains in check. Most do not expect rates to rise until makers. Bernanke, who appears for a second day of testimony means on a preset course,” he told the House of Representatives slew of officials since then who have spelled out their intention to sometime in 2015. He also said the Fed would look closely at any before the Senate Banking Committee today, said the economic Financial Services Committee. keep rates near zero well after the bond buying ends. decline in unemployment to see whether it was being driven by recovery was continuing at a moderate pace thanks to a stronger The remarks lifted prices for US stocks and government bonds, Under the timeline Bernanke laid out on June 19, Fed policy- strength in hiring or a decline in the number of Americans looking housing sector, which was helping conditions in the labor market while the dollar rose against the euro and the yen. “There is some- makers would likely reduce their monthly bond buys later this year for work, in which case the central bank would be more patient improve gradually. He also repeated that the Fed felt the risks to the thing in these comments for everybody,” said Omer Esiner, chief and halt them altogether by mid-2014, as long as the economic before raising rates. Any rate hike cycle, he said, would be economy had decreased since the fall. market analyst at Commonwealth Foreign Exchange in recovery unfolds as expected. In his remarks yesterday, Bernanke gradual.Some Fed officials have been concerned about the low lev- But he said higher taxes and cuts in federal government spend- Washington. “Bernanke has done a good job of leaving himself said the pace of asset purchases could be reduced “somewhat el of inflation and have expressed a hesitance to trim bond pur- ing could turn out to exert a larger drag on US growth than plenty of maneuver room in terms of policy.” Bernanke’s semi- more quickly” if economic conditions improved faster than expect- chases until inflation quickens. The central bank’s preferred price expected, and that worsening conditions overseas could hurt con- annual testimony to Congress may be his last if he steps down ed. On the other hand, the current pace “could be maintained for gauge is a full percentage point below its target. Bernanke repeat- ditions back home. “With the recovery still proceeding at only a when his term as chairman ends in January, as many expect, and a longer” if the labor market outlook darkened, or inflation did not ed his view that transitory factors appeared to be restraining price moderate pace, the economy remains vulnerable to unanticipated number of lawmakers lauded the Fed chairman for his service in look like it was rising back toward the Fed’s 2 percent goal. gains, although he said policymakers were aware that very low shocks, including the possibility that global economic growth may their opening remarks. “Indeed, if needed, the (Fed’s policy-setting) committee would be inflation raised the risk of an outright deflation, which could sap the be slower than currently anticipated,” Bernanke said. Koreas fail to agree Indian govt seeks to boost FDI on Kaesong estate FDI into China climbs in first half

SEOUL: North and South Korea failed yes- Kaesong was previously a valuable MUMBAI/BEIJING: Indian shares and the rupee half of 2013, official data showed yesterday, despite the six-month period, up 14.4 percent on year, with EU terday to reach agreement on reopening source of hard currency for the impover- strengthened in morning trade yesterday after the slowing growth in the world’s second-largest econo- investment 14.7 percent higher at $4.0 billion and that their jointly-run industrial estate as they ished North. At a meeting earlier this government relaxed foreign investment rules in a host my. Outbound investment from China leapt 29.0 per- from the United States rising 12.3 percent to $1.8 bil- wrangled over who was to blame for its month, the two sides agreed in principle to of sectors to boost sluggish growth and the ailing cur- cent to $45.6 billion, the commerce ministry lion. The vast majority of investment into China comes shutdown. A fourth round of talks about the reopen the estate, where 53,000 North rency. The rupee, which this year has been the worst announced, with major increases in the crucial US and from a group of 10 Asian countries and regions includ- complex again ended without agreement, Koreans worked in 123 South-owned facto- performing currency among Asia’s major economies, Australian markets. Incoming FDI, which excludes ing Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan and Singapore. Inflows but the two sides will meet again next ries producing textiles or light industrial rose to 59.26 against the dollar from its previous close financial sectors, increased to $62.0 billion from from those economies gained 5.3 percent on-year to Monday, said Seoul’s chief delegate Kim Ki- goods. But little progress has been made of 59.31, while the 30-share Sensex index was up 0.37 January through June, the ministry said. For June itself, $53.8 billion during the first half. Inward investment Woong. The Kaesong estate in North Korea, since then amid squabbles over which side percent. A group of Indian cabinet ministers late on it rose 20.1 percent year-on-year to $14.4 billion. fell in 2012 for the first time in three years as clouds the last remaining symbol of cross-border should take responsibility for the suspen- Tuesday approved plans to remove the foreign invest- “Investment from Japan, the EU and US maintained gathered over the global economy such as in Europe, cooperation, shut down in April as military sion, and Pyongyang’s refusal to accept ment cap in telecoms and relax overseas ownership rather rapid growth,” ministry spokesman Shen while China suffered its own economic slowdown and tensions mounted after the North’s Seoul’s demand for firm safeguards against rules in other sectors. Danyang told reporters. Japan invested $4.7 billion in political tensions soared with Japan.—Agencies February nuclear test and South Korean-US another unilateral closure. Seoul also wants They also decided to abolish the need for govern- war games. Dialogue resumed in recent to allow foreign firms to operate in Kaesong ment approval for certain levels of foreign investment weeks but little progress has been made in an apparent attempt to make it more dif- in single-brand retail and petroleum refining. In insur- amid squabbles over which side should ficult for Pyongyang to shut the estate if ance, it approved raising the FDI cap from 26 percent to 49 percent. The government is seeking to woo take responsibility for the suspension of relations worsen. investors and kickstart the struggling economy, which business there. The North has called for an uncondition- grew at a decade-low of five percent last year, and Yesterday’s discussions appeared to be a al and quick restart, blaming Seoul’s “hostile boost the rupee which has hit a string of lifetime lows repeat of previous rounds, with each side policy” for the suspension and for the cur- in recent weeks. The easing of the rules is the latest refusing to budge on conditions for resum- rent deadlock in negotiations. “They kept round of pro-business reforms from the scandal-taint- ing operations at the estate, built after a talking past each other. ed Congress-led government ahead of general elec- landmark inter-Korean summit in 2000. The These can hardly be called negotiations tions due by May 2014. South urged the North to promise not to but a dialogue of the deaf,” said Chang “These measures, apart from boosting near-term cause another closure and to take a respect- Yong-Seok, senior researcher at the Institute sentiment, are medium-term positive as they will help ful and constructive position to resolve the for Peace and Unification at Seoul National attract stable long-term capital inflows,” said Sonal issue, according to an official with Seoul’s University. Professor Yang Moo-Jin of Seoul’s Varma, economist with Nomura Securities. Raamdeo unification ministry. However the North reit- University of North Korean Studies said Agrawal, co-founder of Motilal Oswal Financial erated its previous position that operations both sides feel pressure to achieve some Services, said: “The moves may not have an immediate at the zone should be normalised as soon as results before the next US-South Korean impact, but the ground is being created.” The central possible, the official said. “There was a big joint military exercise, Ulchi Freedom Reserve Bank of India raised two short-term interest difference” over how to work out a legal Guardian, takes place next month. The rates Monday, in its most aggressive step yet aimed at framework to prevent a future shutdown, North needs to satisfy a US demand that it easing pressure on the rupee after it tumbled to a record low last week. Kim told reporters at the end of yesterday’s improve ties with Seoul before any talks NEW DELHI: A cobbler talks on a mobile phone yesterday. In a major reforms push, the Indian talks, according to pool reports. with Washington. —AP Separately, Foreign direct investment (FDI) into China rose 4.9 percent year-on-year during the first government on Tuesday allowed 100 percent foreign direct investment in the telecom sector and raised caps in insurance and defense sectors to boost the sagging economy. —AP THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 BUSINESS

Compliance the buzzword for foreign firms in China

BEIJING: A Chinese bribery investigation winning business, I would rather lose the ed other Western drugmakers in trouble - legal and compliance executive at a major of the industry, China’s sophisticated and into British drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline business,” the employee told Reuters, although with US rather than Chinese multinational conglomerate in China said thriving market for fake documents also has sent tremors through multinational requesting anonymity because of the sen- authorities. Pfizer Inc and Eli Lilly & Co have all eyes were on GSK. “Businesses outside allows local employees to provide forged pharmaceutical firms in China, prompting sitivity of the matter. Bribes to government both settled with Washington in the past of the sector are really watching this to see paperwork to more senior or global man- at least one to review how they do busi- officials, underfunded hospitals and poor- 11 months over alleged corrupt payments whether this is an isolated circumstance,” agers. Efforts made by drug firms at com- ness in the country. Experts said foreign ly paid doctors have long facilitated the in foreign markets, including China, and the executive, who was not authorized to pliance training can even backfire, as some companies across the spectrum were regulatory approval, distribution and the more cases under the US Foreign Corrupt speak to the media, told Reuters. When employees learn how to avoid detection. watching closely to see what happened to pricing of medicines in China. Practices Act are pending. announcing the accusations against GSK, Politics could also be playing its part in the GSK and its four detained Chinese execu- Experts said it was too soon to tell if the China is increasingly important for big Chinese police said they had uncovered focus on foreign drugs companies. China’s tives given bribery and business go hand- GSK investigation would change such drug makers, which rely on growth in information that pointed to similar viola- government is faced with a $1 trillion in-hand in the world’s second biggest practices. On top of the police probe, emerging markets to offset slower sales in tions made by other multinational phar- healthcare bill by 2020, according to a economy. Chinese police on Monday China’s National Development and Reform Western markets. IMS Health, which tracks maceutical firms, although they have not report by consultants McKinsey, and is accused GlaxoSmithKline of bribing offi- Commission is examining prices charged pharmaceutical industry trends, expects named any companies. keen to cut the prices of medicines while at cials and doctors to boost sales and raise by 60 local and international drugmakers China to overtake Japan as the world’s sec- Pharmaceutical companies are at the the same time trying to provide universal the price of its medicines. They said GSK including units of GSK, Merck & Co Inc and ond-biggest drugs market behind the mercy of Chinese regulators in getting access to healthcare. transferred up to 3 billion yuan ($489 mil- Astellas Pharma Inc. “All the other players United States by 2016. Some lawyers in products licensed for import or manufac- That has made pharmaceutical com- lion) to 700 travel agencies and consultan- in the industry will be taking a look at their China said corporate bribery was so wide- ture in China, or to get them listed on the panies vulnerable, said James cies over six years to facilitate the bribes. procedures, whether they face any active spread that a single action in one industry national drug registry. They typically rely Zimmerman, managing partner of law Britain’s biggest drug maker said it was investigations or not,” said John McFarland, was unlikely to halt the practice without on hired distributors to get their drugs to firm Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton deeply concerned by the developments, head of fraud prevention at Hill & sustained enforcement from the authori- market and into hospitals. State broadcast- and a former chairman of the American which it called “shameful”. Associates, based in Singapore. ties. er CCTV on Tuesday night aired an inter- Chamber of Commerce in China. “My take On the same day police announced The GSK investigation is the highest But Richard Cassin, an expert on the US view with one of the detained GSK execu- is that the PRC government is targeting their revelations, senior managers from profile corporate probe in China since four Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and author tives, who said he funnelled money the industry given that cost-effective another multinational pharmaceutical firm executives from mining giant Rio Tinto of a popular FCPA blog, said China had through travel agencies by arranging con- health care for the masses is a critical cur- in China were telling staff to make sure were jailed in March 2010 for taking bribes drawn a line in the sand for foreign com- ferences, some of which were never held. rent policy objective for China’s aging they complied with Chinese regulations and stealing commercial secrets. Three of panies. “The China investigation and That money was then used to bribe offi- population, and the government’s legiti- governing the industry, one employee those executives were Chinese while the detentions of executives of a giant cials, doctors and medical associations to macy is at risk if it fails to deliver on its said. “The message from the top is that if I fourth was a Chinese-born Australian. Past Western company will shake up anyone facilitate sales or drug registrations. promise of affordable and accessible have to choose between compliance and improper payouts in China have also land- responsible for compliance,” he said. A According to sources with knowledge health care,” Zimmerman said. —Reuters China launches crackdown on pharmaceutical sector Pressure piles on scandal-hit sector

BEIJING: China announced a nationwide crack- diabetes to high blood pressure and rabies and had crackdown on commercial bribery by multina- down on the sale of illegal medicine yesterday been advertised on television, online and in news- tionals is deeply significant to safeguarding the and said it would tighten industry regulation, pil- papers. Beijing also promised to clean up its act fol- order of the market economy and protecting an ing pressure on a sector already reeling from a lowing the deaths of at least 149 Americans who environment of fair competition,” said the com- bribery scandal at British drugmaker received contaminated Chinese supplies of the mentary in the mouthpiece of the ruling GlaxoSmithKline. The State Food and Drug blood-thinner heparin in 2008. But the country’s Communist Party. Project bidding and tax sys- Administration said the six-month campaign complicated and still developing regulatory envi- tems for multinationals were also problematic, would also target illegal online drug sales and ronment has stymied efforts at tackling the prob- the commentary said, without giving details. the sale of fake traditional Chinese medicine. It lem, which infuriates Chinese consumers, who also Some experts have suggested China may be BASEL, Switzerland: This Oct. 25, 2011 file photo shows the logo of Swiss gave no details on possible changes to regula- express anger at what they see as the high price of expanding an anti-corruption drive beyond gov- pharmaceutical company Novartis AG on one of their buildings. —AP tion. “We must resolutely punish illegal acts, legitimate medicine. Often, big Western compa- ernment ranks and domestic companies including expose illegal enterprises, recall problematic nies package older medicines under their own state-run entities, focusing now on foreign firms. Novartis ex-head payout products,” Wu Zhen, the agency’s deputy com- labels as “branded generics” in emerging markets China has targeted foreign firms on multiple fronts missioner, said in a statement. such as China, where the drugs command a hefty in the past few months, although the probe into is cut down after outcry The crackdown comes two days after Chinese premium to ones made by local suppliers given GSK is the only high-profile, publicly known inves- police accused GlaxoSmithKline of bribing offi- their reputation for quality. A commentary in the tigation focused on bribery. European food com- GENEVA: A bonanza payout to the former chair- Ulrich Lehner said in a statement. cials and doctors to boost sales and raise the People’s Daily newspaper said China must “lift a panies Nestle and Danone said early this month man of Novartis has been cut back radically, the Separately yesterday, Novartis posted lower price of its medicines in China. Police said GSK sharp sword to pierce the improper, even illegal, they would cut infant milk formula prices in China pharmaceutical group said yesterday, reporting net profit for its second quarter but raised its full- also a fall in second quarter profit. The golden year outlook. During the April-June period, the transferred up to 3 billion yuan ($489 million) to costs behind rising drug prices” for which multina- after Beijing launched an investigation into the handshake was to have totalled 72 million Swiss company saw its net profit tick in at $2.55 billion, 700 travel agencies and consultancies over six tionals, such as GSK, were responsible. industry. Chinese media has been giving the GSK francs ($77 million), but the size of the payout down five percent from the year-ago quarter, on years to facilitate the bribes. In response, GSK said China’s planning agency, the National story plenty of attention. caused uproar in Switzerland. Now the former sales up one percent at $14.49 billion. Analysts it was deeply concerned by the developments, Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), is On Tuesday night, state broadcaster CCTV chairman Daniel Vasella will receive 2.7 million polled by financial agency AWP had expected the which it called “shameful”. The food and drug examining prices charged by 60 local and interna- aired an interview with one of four detained Swiss francs in cash, and shares worth about 2.2 company’s sales to come in slightly lower, at million francs, for services during the transition $14.35 billion, and were positively surprised by a agency did not specifically mention GSK, but a tional drugmakers including units of GSK, Merck & Chinese executives from GSK. Liang Hong, vice period since he left in February this year. The total hike in outlook. “We have raised our outlook for spokesman for China’s Commerce Ministry said Co Inc and Astellas Pharma Inc. The pharmaceuti- president and operations manager of GSK amount is about one fifteenth of what he would 2013 performance to reflect a smaller impact from authorities would not hold back punishing com- cal sector was a “disaster zone”, said Willy Lam, (China) Investment Co Ltd, offered details on have received. However, he is to continue acting generic competition,” Novartis said, adding it now panies engaged in bribery. “Whether it’s a adjunct professor of history at the Chinese how he funnelled money through travel agen- as a consultant for the firm at a high daily fee. expects full-year net sales to grow slightly instead domestic or foreign-invested enterprise, once it University of Hong Kong. “This seems to be the cies by arranging conferences, some of which When details of the initial bonanza deal leaked of remaining flat. out there was an outcry in Switzerland. Vasella It said it now expected competition from has violated Chinese law, it will be sanctioned,” largest and the best orchestrated effort to target were never held. “To have contact with some announced that he would forgo the sum, but he generic drugs to impact its annual results by up to Shen Danyang told a news conference. multinationals ... they seem to be blaming foreign- government departments you need money that became the unwilling poster boy for campaigners $2.7 billion, instead of the $3.5 billion previously Widespread counterfeit drugs and false advertis- ers for problems they cannot solve themselves,” you cannot normally expense to the company,” behind a popular vote in Switzerland to rein in anticipated, mainly due to a delay in the launch of ing have been a thorn in the side of Chinese regula- said Lam, who closely follows corruption issues in Liang said during the broadcast. Liang said he executive pay. The former chairman took home a a generic drug in the United States to compete tors for years, and the drug agency has conducted China. paid bribes to officials from the NDRC as well as 15-million-franc salary in 2011. Novartis said he with its Diovan monotherapy to counter high would continue providing consulting services to blood pressure. The company cautioned however campaigns in the past to crack down. Last August, Underscoring the heat on foreign companies, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, which the company, receiving $25,000 per day, with an that the trend would likely reverse next year, when Chinese police detained almost 2,000 people in a a separate commentary in the People’s Daily are among those required to get medicines annual guaranteed minimum fee of $250,000 a generic Diovan monotherapy drug is expected sweep on fake drugs, seizing more than $180 mil- called for a crackdown on commercial bribery by approved or prices set. It is rare for state TV to between 2014 and 2016. “We are pleased that we to launch in the US. Following the two announce- lion worth of counterfeit products and destroying multinational firms in general. It accused some of carry such interviews, although state news will be able to call on Daniel Vasella’s services and ments, Novartis saw its share price slip 1.45 per- some 1,100 production facilities. The seized fake using their market dominance to exploit gaps in agency Xinhua had earlier been given access to to have the opportunity to benefit from his knowl- cent to 68.10 Swiss francs a piece in late morning edge and long-term experience in shaping a glob- trading, as the Swiss stock exchange’s main index drugs purported to deal with illnesses ranging from regulatory systems in developing countries. “A Liang. —Reuters al healthcare leader,” Novartis Chairman ad interim dropped just 0.88 percent. —AFP EXCHANGE RATES

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. UAE Exchange Centre WLL Thai Bhat 9.270 Sierra Leone 0.0000731 0.0000761 Syrian Pound 4.105 Singapore Dollar 0.2229971 0.2288971 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.0021423 0.0021843 ASIAN COUNTRIES Nepalese Rupees 3.040 COUNTRY SELL DRAFT SELL CASH Malaysian Ringgit 89.395 Thai Baht 0.0088113 0.0094113 Japanese Yen 2.878 Australian Dollar 263.69 274.000 Indian Rupees 4.816 Canadian Dollar 279.41 282.000 Pakistani Rupees 2.846 Arab Swiss Franc 307.11 312.000 Bahrain Exchange Company Bahraini Dinar 0.7523266 0.7608266 Srilankan Rupees 2.174 Euro 377.56 380.000 Egyptian Pound 0.0381900 0.0402200 Nepali Rupees 3.026 US Dollar 285.65 284.500 COUNTRY SELL CASH SELLDRAFT Ethiopeanbirr 0.0127921 0.0192921 Singapore Dollar 226.980 Sterling Pound 435.86 448.500 Hongkong Dollar 36.868 Europe Japanese Yen 2.94 3.300 Ghanaian Cedi 0.1454459 0.1472359 Bangladesh Taka 3.666 British Pound 0.4250372 0.4340372 Bangladesh Taka 3.689 3.670 Iranian Riyal 0.0000796 0.0000801 Philippine Peso 6.590 Czech Korune 0.0067191 0.0187191 Indian Rupee 4.766 5.050 Iraqi Dinar 0.0001827 0.0002427 Thai Baht 9.216 Danish Krone 0.0460965 0.0510965 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.183 2.550 Jordanian Dinar 0.3976897 0.4053897 Irani Riyal 0.271 Euro 0.3687278 0.3762278 Kuwaiti Dinar 1.0000000 1.0000000 Irani Riyal 0.273 Nepali Rupee 3.000 3.250 Norwegian Krone 0.0431205 0.0483205 Pakistani Rupee 2.856 2.900 Lebanese Pound 0.0001755 0.0001955 Scottish Pound 0.4233250 0.4308250 UAE Dirhams 77.84 78.000 Moroccan Dirhams 0.0220480 0.0460480 GCC COUNTRIES Swedish Krona 0.0388754 0.0438754 Bahraini Dinar 760.28 753.000 Nigerian Naira 0.0012178 0.0018528 Saudi Riyal 76.364 Swiss Franc 0.2970095 0.30440095 Qatari Riyal 78.615 Egyptian Pound 40.14 38.800 Omani Riyal 0.7319774 0.7429774 Omani Riyal 743.150 Jordanian Dinar 406.54 410.000 Qatar Riyal 0.0779155 0.0786985 Omani Riyal 742.87 748.000 Australasia Saudi Riyal 0.0757467 0.0763867 Bahraini Dinar 759.930 Australian Dollar 0.2524205 0.2644250 UAE Dirham 77.919 Qatari Riyal 78.88 79.500 Sudanese Pounds 0.0465115 0.0470615 Saudi Riyal 76.30 76.000 New Zealand Dollar 0.2162995 0.2262995 Syrian Pound 0.0019496 0.0021696 Uganda Shilling 0.0001131 0.0001131 ARAB COUNTRIES Tunisian Dinar 0.1711159 0.1771159 Egyptian Pound - Cash 41.700 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd UAE Dirhams 0.0764536 0.0779036 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 40.173 America Yemeni Riyal 0.0012906 0.0013906 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.335 Canadian Dollar 0.2671719 0.2761719 Tunisian Dinar 173.490 Colombian Peso 0.0001456 0.0001636 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate Jordanian Dinar 404.040 US Dollars 0.2839000 0.2860500 Al Mulla Exchange US Dollar 287.400 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 1.919 Canadian Dollar 274.760 Syrian Lier 3.108 Asia Sterling Pound 428.985 Currency Transfer Rate (Per 1000) Morocco Dirham 34.458 Euro 370.385 Bangladesh Taka 0.0036280 0.0036830 US Dollar 285.700 Swiss Frank 298.000 Cape Vrde Escudo 0.0031738 0.0034038 Euro 376.000 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Chinese Yuan 0.0455824 0.0505824 US Dollar Transfer 286.000 Bahrain Dinar 760.910 Pound Sterling 433.850 UAE Dirhams 78.225 Eritrea-Nakfa 0.0165367 0.0196367 Canadian Dollar 276.000 Euro 377.230 Guinea Franc 0.0000444 0.0000504 Sterling Pound 433.290 Qatari Riyals 78.890 Indian Rupee 4.825 Hg Kong Dollar 0.0343214 0.0374214 Canadian dollar 275.930 Saudi Riyals 77.505 Egyptian Pound 40.200 Turkish lira 148.760 Jordanian Dinar 405.140 Indian Rupee 0.0047554 0.0048204 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.175 Indonesian Rupiah 0.0000235 0.0000287 Swiss Franc 304.580 Egyptian Pound 40.249 Bangladesh Taka 3.665 Jamaican Dollars 0.0028594 0.0038594 Australian Dollar 264.260 Sri Lankan Rupees 2.198 Philippines Peso 6.590 Indian Rupees 4.713 Japanese Yen 0.0027870 0.0029670 US Dollar Buying 284.800 Pakistan Rupee 2.848 Pakistani Rupees 2.870 Kenyan Shilling 0.0032158 0.0034458 Bahraini Dinar 760.600 Bangladesh Taka 3.690 Malaysian Ringgit 0.0852212 0.0922212 GOLD UAE Dirham 77.800 20 Gram 246.000 Philippines Pesso 6.562 Nepalese Rupee 0.0028580 0.0030580 Saudi Riyal 76.250 10 Gram 124.000 Cyprus pound 705.016 Pakistan Rupee 0.0028227 0.0028627 *Rates are subject to change 5 Gram 64.000 Japanese Yen 3.836 Philippine Peso 0.0061371 0.0066071 THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 BUSINESS

Asia-Pacific currencies tumble on Fed, China fears

TOKYO: Asia-Pacific leaders are scram- economies including Brazil, in turn hit- trading manager at Mitsubishi UFJ Trust won used to be considered quite vulner- about when it will begin to draw down bling to reverse a decline in their curren- ting currencies from India to South Korea and Banking.The ADB downgrade comes able to external uncertainties but it is its bond-buying. His comments earlier cies as an expected tapering of the US to Indonesia. India’s rupee has been the about three months after the Asia-Pacific now more stable than many others,” SK this month that the easy-money will con- Federal Reserve’s stimulus and Chinese worst performing major Asian currency, Economic Cooperation forum warned a Securities’ Kim Hyo-Jin told AFP. tinue for the foreseeable future may economic slowdown send waves of for- dropping from arond 55.50 at the start of “sudden reversal” of capital flowing into Wednesday will see Fed chief Ben have helped limit capital flows, said eign capital flowing outside their bor- the financial year to a record low of 61.21 regional economies might spark sharp Bernanke address congress for a six- Matsuno at SMBC Friend Securities. “The ders. Fears of a cash flight have sparked a rupees to the dollar last week. asset price corrections. This, it said, monthly grilling on the economy and comments had some investors thinking warning from South Korea’s finance min- Indonesia’s rupiah weakened to a near “could cause detrimental damage to the the bank’s policies. Dealers will be hang- that they might as well buy some more ister about possible “spillover effects” four-year low of just above 10,000 to the real economy”. ing on every word looking for clues (Asia-Pacific) currencies,” he said. from the Fed’s wind down, ahead of a dollar last week. But central banks are making moves weekend G20 meeting in Moscow where The weakening “is due to speculation to address the problem. The Reserve the issue is likely to be in focus. “It is nec- over the tapering plans by the Fed, Bank of India this week hiked short-term essary for the United States to carefully which encouraged carry-trade of those interest rates to shore up the belea- consider not only its own economic con- currencies to unwind”, said Toshihiko guered rupee and reduce speculation, ditions but also the global impact in Matsuno, research head at SMBC Friend even at a time it is struggling to get the determining the timing, pace and man- Securities in Tokyo. Carry trade sees economy back in shape and looking for ner of its exit from stimulus,” Hyun Oh- investors sell a low-yielding currency to business investment. And Bank seok said this week. buy another unit that offers a higher Indonesia earlier in July hiked its bench- The Fed’s quantitative easing - which interest rate. “The more they were mark rate for a second consecutive saw trillions of dollars pumped into the bought, the more they were sold,” he month, while it has also increased the world’s top economy in a bid to stoke said. Asia’s currencies have also been amount it pays lenders for their growth - pushed US interest rates and hurt by a slowdown in the region’s overnight deposits. the dollar down, sending investors to economies as export powerhouse China China’s economic woes have also emerging economies looking for better sputters owing to slack demand in debt- damaged the commodity-weighted returns. While Japan has welcomed a hit Europe while the United States slowly Australian dollar, which has tumbled slump in the value of the yen against the gets back on track. about 10 percent in the past three dollar it has lost about a third since On Tuesday, the Asian Development months, while the central bank’s deci- November, with Japan’s own massive Bank said worries over China, the world’s sion to cut interest rates to a historic low easing measures adding to the selling number-two economy, have sent shivers of 2.75 percent has sent investors run- sentiment - most of Asia’s smaller across the continent and cut its growth ning. However, there has been a recent economies have been sent reeling. forecast for developing Asia this year to pick-up in some Asian units as markets Recent evidence of a US recovery, 6.3 percent, from 6.6 percent. “The slow- price in the expected Fed moves, with TOKYO: President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Takehiko which boosts the case for rowing back down in emerging economies had start- South Korea’s won bouncing off a year Nakaoon delivers a speech during a press conference at the Japan the stimulus, has led to an exodus from ed even before the Fed tapering fears low of 1,161.40 won against the dollar Asia-Pacific and other emerging hit,” said Tsunemasa Tsukada, chief forex last month to sit at 1,121.00 now. “The National Press Club yesterday. —AFP New Egypt govt may promote welfare, not economic reform Budget deficit expanding faster than expected CAIRO: Egypt’s new military-backed government If the strategy to boost growth fails, the next fixed income analyst, whose company does not faces intense pressure to repair the state’s chaotic elected government could take office facing an allow him to be quoted by name. The payments finances but is likely instead to spend billions, hop- even bigger cash crunch, forcing it into unpopular accounted for 26.3 percent of total government ing to raise living standards and get protesters off decisions early on. “The concern is that once there is expenditure in the period. Rising interest expenses the streets. A budget deficit that has soared to some more permanent government, it will inherit led Morsi’s government to take the potentially infla- about $3.2 billion a month, worsened by weak tax an even bigger economic mess than the one the tionary step of ramping up its direct borrowing revenues and a wasteful system of fuel and food Morsi administration had,” said Said Hirsh, an econ- from the central bank, raising 92 billion pounds in subsidies, is the biggest threat to economic stability omist with London-based consulting firm Volterra the first six months of 2013, according to central following Egypt’s 2011 revolution. But the interim Partners. bank figures. cabinet, chosen this week after the military ousted The latest data suggests Egypt’s budget plight The deficit was exacerbated by a 21 percent rise Islamist President Mohamed Morsi, will probably has worsened faster than was expected just a few in civil servant labour costs in the 11 months to avoid politically risky reforms of the budget such as months ago. According to Finance Ministry figures May as the government tried to keep worker dis- cutting the subsidies on which Egypt’s millions of released in June, the deficit for the first five months content and unrest to a minimum. During this peri- ATHENS: A municipality worker holds a banner against the Greek government poor depend. of 2013 nearly doubled from a year earlier to 113.4 od revenue rose 4.6 percent, lagging inflation of Instead the new cabinet which includes many billion Egyptian pounds ($16.2 billion). Annualised, about 9 percent. Revenue was hurt partly by a pre- during a demonstration against new public sector reforms yesterday . —AFP technocrats and experienced administrators will try that is about 15 percent of GDP, a level hit by cipitous fall in exports of oil and gas, which were to buy social peace with billions of dollars of foreign Greece in the depths of the euro zone debt crisis. diverted to the local market to try to placate the aid, offered largely by wealthy Gulf Arab states. The $12 billion of aid pledged to Egypt by Saudi public. Greek lawmakers face Farouk Soussa, chief Middle East economist for Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait this The new government will be under heavy pres- Citigroup, said economic reforms and a long- month will cover only a few months of Cairo’s sure to halt these trends. But most of the possible delayed loan agreement with the International deficit - and much of the aid is in the form of loans solutions could prove politically explosive - cutting crucial austerity vote Monetary Fund would probably have to wait until that will add to its debt burden. subsidies, for example, would raise prices and after elections which Egypt hopes to hold in about Because stabilising Egypt is a priority for the Gulf might bring angry consumers onto the streets. This ATHENS: Greek lawmakers were to vote yes- which will be held late at night. Municipal six months. He predicted the new cabinet would Arab monarchies, Cairo can probably look forward would complicate what is already expected to be a terday on a new austerity package involving a employees have been on strike since Monday. spend heavily in trying to improve supplies of food to more aid down the line. Qatar, one of the few tense transition back to civilian rule so the cabinet huge shake-up and maybe job cuts affecting On Tuesday, more than 20,000 people protest- and fuel, cut unemployment and reduce crime governments to have close relations with the may postpone difficult economic choices. “The 25,000 civil servants this year. The vote is ed in Athens and Greece’s second city through more aggressive policing. Brotherhood government, spent about 4 percent of team does not have the political mandate to enact going ahead despite mass protests against Thessaloniki during a general strike called by Morsi’s failures in these areas aroused public its GDP helping Egypt before Morsi’s downfall. Cairo far-reaching and unpopular policies, and ultimately the reforms imposed in return for fresh the main unions. anger and helped to bring about the downfall of his might receive a further $40 billion if Saudi Arabia, such policies risk exacerbating disquiet and would bailout funds. Parliament must approve the “I am now jobless, thanks to a piece of Muslim Brotherhood government, which had prick- the UAE and Kuwait were to do the same now thus be politically counter-productive,” Citigroup bill for Greece to receive its next instalment of paper that has not even been voted into law,” ly relations with the West and most of the Gulf Arab Morsi has gone, but the speed of Egypt’s financial analysts wrote in a report. Ä6.8 billion ($8.9 billion) in rescue funds Dionyssis Vassis, head of technical instructors monarchies. “The task of the interim government is deterioration suggests it may be out of control, The new government has said little about its cleared by eurozone finance ministers. Under at public vocational schools who protested in not to make difficult reforms. It is to manage the cri- even if massive aid is provided. Last year the gov- policy plans, but early signals are that it may not the proposed reforms, affected civil servants Athens, told AFP. His work is one of the 52 sis and to restore Egypt’s relations with the interna- ernment projected a deficit of 135 billion pounds resume trying to negotiate a $4.8 billion loan from including teachers and municipal police will specialties taught at vocational schools that tional community,” Soussa said. That strategy could for the year to June 2013; by the end of May, it had the IMF which, unlike the Gulf Arab aid, would have eight months to find new posts else- will be abolished from next week, according work if social unrest eases to the point where busi- already reached 202.9 billion, with June yet to be require Cairo to reform the economy. Planning where or accept those offered to them. to the bill which leading union Gsee has nessmen resume investing and bring back money reported. minister Ashraf Al-Arabi said this week that the Otherwise, they would lose their jobs. About called a “tombstone” for Greek workers. they stored abroad during the chaos of the Morsi Little of Egypt’s debt is owed to foreigners, so time was not right to reopen talks with the IMF 4,200 people are due to be redeployed by the Greece has been forced to implement a series government. Tycoon Naguib Sawiris, a prominent the country is likely to escape a balance of pay- since the aid from the Gulf would carry it through end of July. of painful reforms over the past four years, in Morsi opponent, has already said his family will be ments collapse. But the burden of financing the the next few months. The size, cost, efficiency and contractual exchange for Ä240 billion in rescue funds put “investing in Egypt like never before”. state debt domestically may be reaching danger- John Sfakianakis, chief investment strategist at conditions of the public sector workforce in up by the European Union and International If such promises materialise, Egypt’s economy ous levels for the banking system. Global consul- Riyadh-based investment company MASIC, said it Greece have been in the sights of the IMF and Monetary Fund. The sweeping job, pay and could start to grow its way out of the budget crisis. tancy IHS said this week it was downgrading would be best if the interim government tackled EU ever since they moved in with the bailout pension cuts have hit Greeks hard, sparking Gross domestic product grew an annual 2.2 percent Egypt’s banking sector to “significant risk”, citing the budget immediately and head-on, to give the programme and associated conditions for mass protests and general strikes. in the first quarter, far below the level needed to banks’ large holdings of sovereign debt, which next elected government a clean slate. If this is not reforms. The bill also covers a partial overhaul Meanwhile, conservative Prime Minister solve the problem, let alone help to ease social ten- comprises an estimated 40 percent of their total feasible, it can at least lay the groundwork, he of the tax system, including the introduction Antonis Samaras announced a much-antici- sions by creating jobs for a rapidly expanding pop- assets. “Given the ongoing political uncertainty in said.”They can do baby steps - rationing cards for of new criteria for taxable income and amend- pated reduction of VAT sales tax on food serv- ulation. Economists estimate GDP would have to the country, banks could find that their govern- (state subsidised) gasoline, putting together the ing tax thresholds. “Landmark vote tonight,” ice from 23 percent to 13 percent, in a tele- grow about 6 percent a year to absorb young ment securities are not liquid in the event of future system so that those who are in need receive the said the front page of liberal daily Kathimerini, vised statement yesterday. “VAT on food serv- Egyptians looking for work. The economy had 7 distress, effectively raising what would otherwise cards, and to allocate them to those who need while top-selling Ta Nea said the parliamen- ice is immediately reduced, effective as of percent growth for several years before the popular be a low structural liquidity risk profile,” it said. them the most,” he said. “Even if it’s not implement- tary debate on the bill that started on Tuesday August 1,” he said, predicting the move will uprising that brought down Hosni Mubarak in Interest payments on the government’s domes- ed over the next few months, they have to put it in was held in a “war atmosphere”. increase profits and restrict tax evasion. “(But) February 2011, but since then tourism revenue has tic debt in the 11 months to May rose 31 percent to place now so that the next government begins to About 4,000 civil servants, according to a if tax evasion continues as if nothing hap- dived and foreign investment collapsed. 124.8 billion pounds, according to a Cairo-based implement it.” —Reuters police source, gathered yesterday in Athens’s pened, then the VAT tax will once more rise to central Syntagma square near the parliament, 23 percent,” he warned. Now in its sixth year to protest against the vote. Another protest running of recession and with the unemploy- has been planned by the two main unions for ment rate at a record 27 percent, Greece is not later in the day, closer to the time of the vote expected to post growth before 2014. —AFP Heathrow urges third Barclays to fight $453m power fine in US court runway to meet needs LONDON: Britain’s biggest airport, final verdict due in mid-2015, after the “Heathrow is not in the wrong though they would cost more, and NEW YORK: Barclays will contest a record $453 mil- “We have cooperated fully with the FERC inves- London’s Heathrow, urged the gov- next general election. The West place, it’s in the right place for busi- take longer to build than the north lion fine imposed by a US energy regulator against tigation, which relates to trading activity that ernment yesterday to let it build a London-based airport, part owned by ness,” said Matthews, adding that option. The southwest runway, pro- the British bank and four of its power traders, setting occurred several years ago,” Barclays spokesman third runway, saying its plans would Spain’s Ferrovial, suggested three hundreds of firms were based within posed to be built over two reservoirs, up a likely federal court battle. The fines, which were Marc Hazelton said in a statement on Tuesday. “We provide more flights, less noise and options: placing a new runway to the 25 miles of the hub because of the would be the most expensive and upheld by the Federal Energy Regulatory intend to vigorously defend this matter.” Barclays be cheaper and quicker to build than north, north west or south west of the links it offers. “After half a century of complex to build, but would mean Commission (FERC) on Tuesday, confirm the top US Chief Executive Antony Jenkins, who took the helm rival proposals. The UK government hub. Each option would deliver extra vigorous debate but little action, it is aircraft noise affecting the fewest energy cop will pursue its most ambitious market last year, is trying to rebuild the bank’s battered rep- and business leaders want to expand capacity by 2025-29 for £14-18 billion clear the UK desperately needs a sin- people. Heathrow said all three manipulation case to date. For Barclays, the sanction utation and repair testy relationships with regula- flights to fast-growing economies to ($21-27 billion), and would be cheap- gle hub airport with the capacity to options offered the chance of adding is the latest of a series of scandals that include a tors. One of his first moves was to tackle the invest- ensure the country does not miss out er and quicker to build than rival hub provide the links to emerging a fourth runway in the future, if need- $450 million fine by US and UK regulators for rig- ment banking business criticised for a free-wheel- on billions of pounds of trade, and options being proposed by Johnson economies which can boost UK jobs, ed, and said it would fund the run- ging global benchmark interest rates last year. But ing culture and accused of paying staff too much. with Heathrow operating at 99 per- and Stansted Airport, Heathrow said. GDP and trade.” ways itself rather than asking for tax- unlike its settlement over Libor (London Interbank Jenkins said in April he wanted his bank “to cent capacity, more runways are “There will be more pigs flying As well as environmental groups, payers to pay. Offered Rate), where the bank accepted wrongdo- become a model of constructive engagement with needed. However, under pressure than aircraft if we are to believe the Heathrow’s plans are opposed by Each option would raise capacity ing, it has fought the FERC allegations from the start. regulators”, but has admitted turning the bank from green groups and its Liberal claim that three runways at Heathrow local residents. A government report to 740,000 flights a year from 480,000 FERC first proposed the fines in October 2012 around could take at least five years. Barclays shares coalition partners, the Conservative- will make less noise than two,” showed noise pollution levels of at currently, and cater for 130 million over alleged manipulation of Californian and other were down 0.7 percent at 306.1 pence by 1004 led government overturned a deci- Johnson said after the plans were least 57 decibels affecting around passengers, up from the 70 million western power markets by the British bank in the GMT, in line with a slightly lower European banking sion to build a third Heathrow runway published. “Their proposal would be a 260,000 people living near the west passengers that used the hub last last decade. Tuesday’s ruling said FERC commission- index. The US case is expected to be a major test of after it came to power in 2010, and disastrous outcome for Londoners, London site. However, Matthews said year. Johnson has proposed that ers agreed with earlier findings by regulatory staff, FERC’s enforcement powers, expanded by the move is also vigorously opposed nor would it solve our aviation capaci- by 2030 between 10 and 20 percent London should have a four-runway which said the bank deliberately lost money in Congress in 2005 legislation that had its genesis in by London’s Conservative mayor, ty crisis as a fourth runway would fewer people would be within airport, which would be either a new physical power markets to benefit its financial posi- the Enron electricity manipulation scandals in the Boris Johnson, whom many commen- need to be in the planning process Heathrow’s noise footprint with a hub 40 miles east of central London tions between 2006 and 2008, and that the Barclays western United States earlier in the decade. Ron tators view as a potential rival to before a third was even open.” third runway, due to altered flight on the Isle of Grain, or further out in traders knew their activity was unlawful. “FERC Wyden, the chairman of the Senate’s Energy and Prime Minister David Cameron. Johnson is backing the development paths and the benefit of improved the Thames Estuary on an artificial finds that their actions demonstrate an affirmative, Natural Resources Committee, said FERC sent a Heathrow yesterday submitted its of a rival airport and earlier this week air-traffic control technology and qui- island, or at an expanded Stansted coordinated and intentional effort to carry out a strong message to traders and banks. “Consumers plans to a government commission set out his plans, which include a new eter planes. airport, to the northeast of the city. manipulative scheme, in violation of the Federal have the right to heat and power their homes with- looking into raising airport capacity, four-runway hub 40 miles east of cen- Heathrow said it preferred the two Each of these projects would be Power Act and FERC’s Anti-Manipulation Rule,” the out fear that traders are stacking the deck against which is due to publish an interim tral London and the possible demoli- westerly options as they minimised deliverable by 2029, costing up to regulator said in a statement. The case will likely them to rack up unjust profits,” Wyden said in a report by the end of next year, with a tion of Heathrow. the noise impact on local residents £65 billion, Johnson said. —Reuters now move to a federal court. release. —Reuters THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 BUSINESS Mumtalakat 2012 net loss narrows

DUBAI: Bahrain sovereign fund Mumtalakat said Aluminium Bahrain (Alba). Mumtalakat made a prices on the London Metals Exchange which fell and Airbus aircraft. Better performers for yesterday its net loss for 2012 narrowed by 32.9 net loss of 181.7 million dinars ($482 million) in 16 percent to an average of $2,019 per metric Mumtalakat in 2012 included its financial services percent as improved performance by its financial 2012, it said in a statement, versus a net loss of tonne. While it made no mention of it, struggling and telecommunications portfolio, which helped services and telecommunications portfolio partly 270.6 million a year earlier. Gulf Air may have also contributed to the fund’s raise profits from associated companies by 9.1 per- offset lower revenue from its aluminium unit. One Revenues fell 9.9 percent mainly due to lower 2012 loss. Restructuring initiatives at the airline cent, it said. A 28.3 percent fall in impairments also of the smaller sovereign wealth funds in the Gulf aluminium prices impacting Alba, said the fund, were behind its 2011 loss. helped narrow the fund’s loss. Mumtalakat Chief region, it had $7.1 billion of assets under manage- which was set up in 2006 and has posted net loss- In March, Bahrain’s national carrier cut 15 per- Executive Officer Mahmood al-Kooheji said in ment at the end of September. It holds stakes in es for the past five years. Alba, which owns the cent of its workforce and dropped four loss-mak- March that the fund would focus on investment in 40 firms in the kingdom’s non-oil sector, including world’s fourth-largest smelter, posted a 54.4 per- ing routes in its latest round of cost-cutting meas- Bahrain in 2013, with $150 million earmarked for Bahrain Telecommunications Co (Batelco) and cent fall in profits. It was hurt by aluminium cash ures. Last November it trimmed orders for Boeing local projects this year. —Reuters

BEIJING: Chinese people use umbrellas to shade themselves from the sun at a commercial area yesterday. China’s leaders face new pressure to stimulate a slowing economy after growth fell to its lowest since 1991, hurt by weak trade and efforts to cool a credit boom. —AP IMF: China needs reforms to keep growth success

BEIJING/WASHINGTON: China needs where the government’s bottom line would another round of “decisive measures” to lie. The IMF said it was less worried about make sure it continues its successful eco- specific growth figures, as there were few nomic growth as its margins of safety are signs of a sharp slowdown or “hard landing”. falling amid growing domestic problems, the “We think another (government) stimulus International Monetary Fund said in its latest would be warranted only if growth were to report. The world’s second-largest economy slow considerably more,” Markus Rodlauer, has been underpinned by a mix of invest- the IMF’s mission chief for China, told ment, credit and fiscal stimulus, but such a reporters. pattern of growth is unsustainable, the fund The IMF also welcomed the government’s said on Wednesday in a report on its annual move to shift more jobs into the services sec- review of China’s economy. “To secure more tor, which must take up a growing pool of balanced and sustainable growth, a package labour. Services jobs generally have higher of reforms is needed to contain the growing wages, helping China’s transition to a con- risks while transitioning the economy to a sumption-led economy. China must contin- more consumer-based, inclusive, and envi- ue the process of de-regulating the sector, ronmentally friendly growth path,” the report the fund said. Steven Barnett, the IMF’s divi- said. “While China still has significant buffers sion chief for China, said the share of to weather shocks, the margins of safety are employment in the services sector remains diminishing.” below other countries’ at comparable The IMF did not change its latest forecast income levels - although it has been increas- for 2013 Chinese growth at 7.75 percent, ing. But Barnett agreed with China’s govern- though it noted downside risks to the fore- ment that labour conditions remain stable, cast. Its figure is above the Chinese govern- with a steady unemployment rate and wage ment’s target of 7.5 percent and also above growth, according to official statistics. most private economists’ forecasts of China’s leaders have been at pains to say between 7 and 7.5 percent. China’s new lead- employment remains stable, even as the ers have repeatedly indicated that they are economy slows, citing a growing services prepared to tolerate slower growth to push sector and a demographic shift that reduces through reforms and deregulation to wean surplus rural workers. They are worried that if the economy off a reliance on exports and the slowdown leads to high unemployment, investment and encourage more consump- there could be social unrest. The IMF said tion. That resolve has been tested, however, that for the near term, a priority for China is as growth slowed to 7.5 percent in the April to rein in broader credit growth and prevent to June quarter, the ninth quarter in the last a further build-up of risks in the financial sec- 10 that expansion has weakened, and tor. It noted the rise of China’s shadow bank- exports fell in June for the first time in 17 ing system, where credit is available outside months. regular channels to companies that cannot Analysts have suggested that the govern- borrow from banks, but which risks creating ment may step in if growth falls to 7 percent hidden bad debts that become a threat to or below in any quarter, though it is unclear financial stability. —Reuters Dubai up as Air Arabia near 5-yr high

MIDEAST MARKET REPORT DUBAI: Dubai-listed budget carrier Air Arabia Petrochemical fell 3.7 percent after the firm surged to a near five-year high yesterday, reported a quarterly net profit of 10.8 million leading a rally on the emirate’s bourse ahead riyals ($2.88 million). NCB Capital had forecast of UAE second-quarter earnings. Air Arabia National Petrochemical would make a quar- jumped 8.3 percent to reach its highest level terly profit of 238 million riyals. “The signifi- since October 2008 and was also the biggest cant earnings miss was primarily driven by gainer and top trader on the market. “Air lower-than-estimated plants’ operating rates Arabia has been our favourite pick since the during the quarter,” Ankit Gupta, assistance beginning of the year because it’s a defensive vice-president of research at NBK Capital said stock that also has a high growth story,” said in a note. Marwan Shurrab, fund manager and head of Gupta did however highlight that these trading at Vision Investments. “Not only insti- results showed National Petrochemical had tutions are piling in but retail (investors) are become profitable in its third quarter of oper- also aggressively buying - it has the best divi- ations. This is in contrast to Saudi Kayan which dend yield in the market,” he added. has yet to make a quarterly profit nearly two Air Arabia has a 12-month forecast of a 6.4 years after starting production. The kingdom’s percent yield, which compares with 4.7 per- benchmark eased 0.05 percent, its second loss cent for a selection of regional stocks, accord- in three days since hitting a 15-month high. In ing to Reuters data. The company has already Qatar, the index climbed 0.4 percent to a five- paid its annual dividend for 2012, which may week peak. Qatar National Bank rose 1.8 per- indicate many recent buyers are long-term cent to new all-time high. The lender last investors. Goldman Sachs last week gave the week posted a 24 percent increase in second- stock a ‘buy’ rating. Dubai’s index rose 2 per- quarter profit, beating estimates. QNB is cent to 2,495 points, resuming a rally but fail- among Doha bluechips expected to draw in ing to break the 2,501-level chart resistance - additional foreign buyers after index compiler the four-and-half-year intraday peak hit on MSCI upgraded Qatar to emerging market June 3. Abu Dhabi’s benchmark climbed 0.3 status. percent to hit a new 57-month high, its ninth Elsewhere, Egypt’s main benchmark consecutive gain. slipped 0.3 percent to ease from Tuesday’s six- In Saudi Arabia, petrochemical shares fell week high. Foreigners were net sellers against for a third session. Saudi Basic Industries Corp Egyptian buyers, bourse data showed. Civil (SABIC), the Gulf’s largest listed company, unrest overshadowed upbeat investor senti- slipped 0.5 percent. Three of SABIC’s units - ment on the formation of an interim cabinet. Saudi Kayan, Saudi Arabian Fertilizer Co Thousands of supporters of deposed Egyptian (Safco) and Yanbu National Petrochemical Co President Mohamed Morsi demonstrated out- (Yansab) - have reported below-forecast earn- side the prime minister’s office yesterday in a ings that trailed estimates. National “day of steadfastness”. —Reuters BUSINESS THURSDAY, JULY 18 , 2013 US housing starts fall to 10-month low

WASHINGTON: US housing starts and permits for expected them to rise to a 1-million unit pace. current and future home sales. But many builders highest since May 2008. Housing’s recovery is future home construction unexpectedly fell in Data including retail sales, trade and inventories have been complaining about a shortage of labor being aided by still-low mortgage rates engi- June, offering further evidence of a sharp slow- indicate the economy lost considerable momen- and materials, which may have contributed to last neered by the Federal Reserve’s accommodative down in economic activity in the second quarter. tum in the last quarter, with growth estimates as month’s surprise decline in activity. “We should see monetary policy and steady employment gains. The Commerce Department said on Wednesday low as 0.5 percent. The economy, which grew at a growth in single-family construction into 2014. While mortgage rates have spiked in recent housing starts dropped 9.9 percent to a seasonally 1.8 percent annual pace in the first quarter has That’s positive for housing, jobs and overall weeks after the Fed expressed its desire to start adjusted annual rate of 836,000 units. That was been hit by tighter fiscal policy and slowing global growth,” said Gus Faucher, senior macroeconomist cutting back on its bond purchases later this year, the lowest level since August last year. Economists demand. Housing has been providing some buffer at PNC Financial Services in Pittsburgh. economists do not believe that this will derail the polled by Reuters had expected groundbreaking against those headwinds. Last month, groundbreaking for single-family housing recovery. The monthly $85 billion in to rise to a 959,000-unit rate last month. June’s Despite the unexpected drop in groundbreak- homes, the largest segment of the market, slipped bond purchases have been holding down inter- drop unwound the prior month’s gains, suggest- ing and permits last month, there was little in the 0.8 percent to a 591,000-unit pace, the lowest since est rates. Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke said yester- ing a smaller boost from residential construction report to suggest the housing recovery in unravel- November 2012. Starts for multi-family homes day the central bank still expected to start scaling to second-quarter gross domestic product ing as the volatile multi-family segment accounted declined 26.2 percent to a 245,000-unit rate. back its massive asset purchase program later this growth. for much of the decline. Sentiment among single- Permits for multi-family homes fell 21.4 percent to year, but left open the option of changing that Permits to build homes fell 7.5 percent last family home builders hit a 7-1/2 year high in July, a a 287,000-unit rate. But permits for single-family plan in either direction if the economic outlook month to a 911,000-unit pace. Economists had report showed on Monday, amid optimism over homes rose 0.6 percent to a 624,000-unit pace, the shifted. — Reuters BoE puts differences on ice at Carney’s first meeting MPC votes 9-0 against expansion of asset purchases

LONDON: The Bank of England’s new governor, more help but they were holding fire until the economy. Mark Carney, and all his fellow policymakers vot- bank had decided whether to provide clearer British economic data over the past month ed against more stimulus for the economy earlier guidance on future interest rates. “Given the had otherwise been broadly positive, the min- this month, unexpectedly setting aside differ- already large size of the asset purchase program, utes said, providing further evidence that the ences ahead of a potentially big policy change in there was merit in pursuing a mixed strategy with recovery was in line with the BoE’s May forecast August. The 9-0 vote against more bond-buying - regards to the different policy instruments at the for 0.5 percent growth between April and June. the second big surprise of Carney’s two-and-half- Committee’s disposal,” the minutes summarised Data yesterday showed the number of unem- week governorship - made the pound jump and them as saying. August’s review should shed light ployment benefit claims fell in June at its fastest British government bond prices fall. The BoE must on the size and form of additional stimulus, they rate for three years. The overall jobless rate held report to finance minister George Osborne early added. at 7.8 percent. Policymakers have been next month on whether to start giving clear sig- These policymakers were probably markets immersed in discussions about whether the BoE nals on the future direction of interest rates, director Paul Fisher and David Miles who had should use forward guidance based on so-called NICOSIA: Cyprus’ Finance Minister Harris Georgiades (center) meets with officials something Carney did in his previous job as been voting for a £25 billion ($37.8 billion) expan- “intermediate thresholds” such as unemploy- from the European Commission, European Central Bank and the International Canada’s central bank chief. sion on top of the £375 billion of assets already ment, linking future monetary policy moves to Monetary Fund at the financial ministry yesterday. — AP Such “forward guidance” can itself act as a bought. Former governor Mervyn King also indicators other than inflation. monetary stimulus if it means rates remaining backed more bond-buying. The BoE’s Monetary Some economists said signs of improvement Inspectors start quizzing low, so that could mean the end of bond purchas- Policy Committee told markets not to count on a in the economy, as well as the likely introduction es as the BoE’s main tool for trying to build on policy change at its Aug. 1 meeting and it would of forward guidance, further reduced the chance signs of recovery in Britain’s economy. “The voting only detail its views on forward guidance on Aug. of bond purchases later this year, which earlier Cyprus on bailout progress pattern is probably best interpreted as a truce,” 7, along with quarterly economic forecasts. Other this month they placed at around 40 percent. said Marc Ostwald, a bond market strategist at MPC members again doubted that bond purchas- “The minutes overall support our view that com- NICOSIA: Cyprus’s international lenders began controls, introduced to prevent a cash flight Monument Securities in London. “Even those ... es would be effective, even if the economy did munication and forward guidance will be the reviewing how the island is meeting the condi- after the bailout was agreed in March. “Swiftly members who were pressing earlier this year for need more stimulus now. main policy tool going forward,” said RBC econo- tions of it 10 billion euro bailout yesterday, exiting the resolution status would allow us to an increase in the Bank of England’s stock of asset The BoE’s potential move away from bond- mist Jens Larsen. Others were less sure, including looking to see whether it should get the next take new steps to further ease, and ultimately tranche of aid. The appraisal is the first since eliminate capital controls,” Finance Minister purchases now accept there may be other, more buying comes at a time when the US Federal Investec’s Philip Shaw, who was rare among econ- Cyprus secured a deal with the International Harris Georgiades said on Tuesday. An inde- effective, means of delivering monetary stimulus,” Reserve is talking about slowing the pace of its omists in predicting July’s unanimous vote. “We Monetary Fund, the European Commission and pendent audit of Bank of Cyprus assets is under he said. own asset purchases, though the MPC was at still feel there will be some policy easing. Our the European Central Bank in March, pulling way, which would define precisely how much A minority of BoE policymakers had tried pains to state that it did not yet see a case for view has been that the MPC will sanction a fur- the cash-starved country away from the brink of depositors’ cash would be seized. unsuccessfully to restart the central bank’s bond tighter policy. indeed, the BoE surprised markets ther 50 billion pounds of QE, but we do wonder of financial meltdown. It dealt a harsh blow to The island has promised its lenders that it purchases since November. At the July 3-4 meet- at its July policy meeting when it said bond mar- whether something will come out of left field thousands who lost their savings in two major would consider the option of selling some of its ing, minutes of which were released on kets were betting too early on when British inter- which alters the mix of the overall stimulus,” he Cypriot banks, however. Nicosia received a first gold reserves to help pay down its debt but Wednesday, they said the economy still needed est rates might go up, given the weak state of the said. — Reuters tranche of aid in June worth Ä3 billion and euro Georgiades said on Tuesday that that was only zone finance ministers will decide on whether one option under consideration. Under the to issue the next tranche in mid-September, bailout, Cyprus has agreed to cut its budget the size of which is yet to be determined. deficit to 2.4 percent of GDP in 2016, from an Europe to curb Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades said estimated 5.9 percent this year. Although for- last month that some provisions of the bailout eign banks on the island were exempt from deal needed tweaking to address problems in most restrictions imposed under the bailout, costs of paying the island’s battered banking sector. Cyprus customers at banks in Cyprus are limited to had to wind down one lender, Laiki Bank, and withdrawals of up to Ä300 a day, cheques can- use customer deposits exceeding Ä100,000 to not be cashed and bank transfers are vetted. with plastic prop up another, Bank of Cyprus, as part of the Those restrictions are adding to an acute bailout agreement. One area of focus for the credit crunch caused by financial institutions BRUSSELS: The European Commission will propose so-called troika of lenders during the two-week which are jittery about their balance sheets in a capping the fees that banks charge retailers to review will be why the central bank has yet to rapidly deteriorating economy and have put process card payments, according to draft legisla- finalise how much equity Bank of Cyprus share- the brakes on lending, economists say. “Banks tion seen by Reuters that will squeeze an important holders will receive in exchange for giving up aren’t lending,” said economist Yiannis Tirkides, money-spinner for lenders and cut costs for con- their deposits, a process known as a bail-in. who did not wish to disclose the name of his sumers. The curbs, compared by some EU officials Finance Ministry officials are keen to see the company. “A lot has to do with expectations, with the cap on mobile roaming fees, would have resolution settled, worried that the uncertainty and that contributes to the uncertainty,” he it is causing is preventing an easing of capital said. — Reuters far-reaching consequences, with such payments accounting for a total value of purchases of 1.8 tril- lion euros in the wider European economic area in 2010. The draft legislation, due to be officially unveiled next week, envisages a limit of 0.2 percent on the value of a debit card transaction and 0.3 per- cent on credit cards. Currently, the fee can be as high as 1.5 percent. The proposal stops short of an outright ban on the fees banks charge each other for processing transactions but it will nonetheless ensure that this cost, which is ultimately passed on to the card- holder, is permanently curtailed. The cap, which is BAIKAL LAKE, Russia: Russian President Vladimir Putin observes military exercises in line with measures demanded by the from a helicopter near the Baikal Lake yesterday. — AP Commission’s antitrust officials, will apply initially for cross-border transactions - for example, when Russia can find niche in an Irish card-holder pays uses their card in France. After two years, this limit would be extended to the so-called interchange fees on domestic payments Asian gas market: Putin using all cards. The plans will first have to be agreed with the CHITA, Russia: Russia has every chance of will carry gas to Russia’s Pacific coast to European Parliament and EU countries, which securing a place in the Asian gas market feed a new liquefaction plant at means that the roll-out of the cap could begin from even while competition there is on the rise, Vladivostok. A Gazprom spokesman around the end of next year. The law would mark President Vladimir Putin said, underlining declined immediate comment. Analysts BEIJING: President of Wahaha company Zong Qinghou delivers a speech during a the end of a two decades-long battle between the Moscow’s shift in energy policy towards see the pipeline and the development of press conference yesterday. — AFP EU’s executive, which enforces antitrust rules in the Asia. “We are thinking about entering the fields to feed it, which will add tens of bil- 28-country bloc, and card firms Visa Europe and promising market in the Asia-Pacific region. lions of dollars to the overall cost of bring- China’s richest man says MasterCard Visa Europe, which is the European We should find our niche here; we have ing eastern gas resources to market, as a licensee of Visa Inc, is owned and operated by more every chance of doing that,” Putin told jour- risky venture unless there is a major con- wealth gap not a priority than 3,700 European banks. nalists yesterday in the far eastern town of tract with China to underpin it. The draft, which has been the subject of a some- Chita. Putin said there was room for Russia Gazprom has watched as China, keen to BEIJING: China’s yawning divide between to Euromonitor International. Zong’s fortune, times tense debate in the European Commission on the Asian market despite shipments of burn more gas and cut reliance on coal, rich and poor does not need to be tackled, as estimated by China-based luxury maga- among those advocating harsher controls and oth- liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the Middle has agreed to buy gas supplies for years the country’s richest person said yesterday - zine publisher the Hurun Report, makes him ers wanting a gentler approach, may yet change East and new supplies from Australia. “The ahead from its rivals. Gazprom Chief as long as everyone can become wealthy. “We the richest person in China and one of the although that is not likely. In the proposal, the Asia-Pacific region is developing rapidly. Its Executive Alexei Miller said last month a don’t need to solve the problem of the rich- wealthiest in Asia. China’s rich have become European Commission also recommends rules that consumption is growing rapidly, and Russia deal could be done by September, but poor gap, we need to solve the problem of targets for public resentment as the gap would make it easier for retailers to pick and choose can play a prominent role,” Putin said dur- talks with China have taken place for 15 common prosperity,” said Zong Qinghou, between the country’s richest and poorest which cards to accept, which would cut their trans- ing a tour of Russia’s Far East and East years so far without producing agreement, whose family fortune is estimated at $12.6 grew following market reforms beginning in action costs. Currently, the “honour all cards” rules Siberia to oversee military exercises and hung up mostly over price. Gazprom’s billion. Zong, founder of a huge soft-drinks the late 1970s. China’s Gini coefficient, a require merchants to accept all products issued by show its energy potential. export chief said in an interview last conglomerate which has branched out into measure of inequality with 0 representing The Kremlin sees the energy industry as month that Miller’s remark reflected a wish baby milk and children’s clothing, said that total equality and 1 representing total the same card company, even if the fees for these cards vary. central to economic development of that “thinking made it so”. He also dis- “rich people should help everyone to become inequality, stood at 0.47 in 2012, according to Russia’s remote eastern region, driving job missed news of an apparent accommoda- prosperous”. government statistics. That would put it close Visa Europe has already offered to cap inter- bank credit card fees at the level of 0.3 percent, the growth and construction of infrastructure tion by China, a prepayment deal to “If everyone is wealthy, society will be to the US, which had an index figure of 0.56 as state-controlled companies Rosneft and finance the pipeline, saying there was no harmonious, and more comfortable,” the 67- in 2009, according to the World Bank. same benchmark as competitor MasterCard. In its Gazprom tap new fields to supply Asia. agreement on it. year old entrepreneur told reporters in But a study last year by the Survey and legislative proposal, the European Commission is Beijing at an event to mark the launch of a Research Center for China Household scathing of the practices of the card companies. Rosneft last month agreed a $270 billion Responding to the delay, the Kremlin series of high-end shopping malls. Zong Finance, a government-backed research “Competition between card schemes appears ... to deal to increase oil supplies to China to has launched a debate over Gazprom’s de nearly a million barrels per day , but suc- only went into business in his 40s, selling group, said the figure was 0.61 in 2010. That be largely aimed at convincing as many ... providers facto monopoly right to export LNG, hop- cess on the gas front has been slim, despite ing that independent gas producers might fizzy drinks to children and reportedly being would put China at the top of a list of 16 as possible to issue their cards, which usually leads repeated pleas from the Kremlin to get an stake out a share of the Asian market for so short of cash that he slept under a bridge countries issued by the World Bank. to higher rather than lower fees,” officials write in eastern gas business up and running. Russia. With prospects that independent in Beijing because he could not afford a Nonetheless, Zong warned: “If we had egali- the document. “Consumers tend to be unaware of Vedomosti daily reported yesterday company Novatek could gain rights to hotel. But the company he launched, tarianism... we wouldn’t have enough to eat.” the fees paid by merchants for the payment instru- that Gazprom had already tendered to buy export LNG, China National Petroleum Wahaha, whose name means “Laughing He called for lower taxes to stimulate invest- ment they use.” — Reuters Child” in Chinese, went on to become China’s ment. “It’s best to encourage people to create pipe to build the Power of Siberia pipeline Corp has agreed to buy a stake in third largest soft drinks company, according wealth,” he said. — AFP at an estimated cost of $38 billion, which Novatek’s Yamal LNG plant. — Reuters BUSINESS THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 Low Argentine wheat stocks halt exports, fan inflation

BUENOS AIRES: Argentina, usually a key supplier of as voters get ready to go to the polls for congres- toward soy and other crops to skirt the wheat ment’s options for fighting food price inflation are wheat to the world market, is facing a shortage of sional elections in October. export curbs that they say hurt profits and make limited as the October vote nears. “Technically it the grain that has stopped exports and prompted In addition, Argentina’s next harvest will be crop planning impossible. The resulting shortage would be possible for Argentina to import wheat the government to adopt price controls in a bid to delayed because dry weather reduced early 2013 has pushed the price of wheat for domestic con- from Uruguay. But from a political point of view it keep bread on consumers’ tables ahead of mid-term plantings by more than half. Only 220,000 hectares sumption in Argentina to $406 per tonne from $219 would be nearly impossible because it would be a elections. This slowdown in Argentine wheat (544,000 acres) were planted with wheat this year in in January and $175 in July 2012. By comparison, US recognition of the government’s own bad policies,” exports comes at time when the world needs its the northern provinces of Salta, Jujuy, Chaco and soft red winter wheat is being offered for August Pierbattisti said. wheat. Global supplies are low, reduced by poor Formosa, less than half the 530,000 hectares plant- and September shipment from the US Gulf of The impact on consumer prices is a concern for harvests last year in Russia, Australia and the United ed in those areas in 2012. These provinces, while Mexico at $275 per tonne. President Christina Fernandez, as candidates from States. Export limits in the South American country, not included in Argentina’s main wheat belt in The Argentine price rally started with reports in her branch of the Peronist party campaign ahead of which were applied to ensure ample domestic food southern Buenos Aires province, are usually the first early in the year of bad weather that hobbled what the October election. The success rate of those can- supplies, backfired this year as the government to be harvested in early November. “This is a big was already expected to be a weak harvest due to didates will determine if the clout that she enjoys in approved too much wheat for export based on problem because it’s only July and supplies are historically small planted acreage. Argentina has Congress will continue over the next two years. She optimistic early season crop estimates. Now very lit- already running thin,” said Leandro Pierbattisti, an reacted with new regulations, including a law was re-elected in 2011 on promises of increasing tle remains to be milled into flour for bread. analyst with the country’s grains warehousing enacted early this month forcing wheat and flour government’s role in the economy. Argentina’s wheat crunch hits at a delicate time industry chamber. “The usual early harvest in producers to halt any export of reserve stocks and Argentina already has one of the highest infla- for the global market. Crop damage in China, the November won’t be there this year.” prioritize supplying the local market. The govern- tion rates in the world. Private analysts put con- world’s top grower, may force it to import its largest Argentina is the world’s No. 8 wheat supplier and ment negotiated with bread makers to fix bread sumer price increases at about 25 percent per year. volumes in two decades. Egypt, the world’s top most of its harvest comes in December. Brazil, usu- prices at 10 pesos per kilo, as opposed to the cur- In June, Argentina’s inflation ran at 0.8 percent wheat importer, is running out of imported ally Argentina’s biggest market, has been forced to rent market price of 18 pesos. Some bakers and owing to a 2.1 percent spike in wheat-based sta- reserves, which could exacerbate political turmoil in buy more wheat from countries in the Northern supermarkets have agreed to offer bread at the low- ples such as bread and pasta, according to official a country seen as key to Middle East stability. Hemisphere this year. The top five wheat exporters er price only up to 10 am every day, raising the price data. But those inflation figures are widely disput- Argentina’s overestimation of its exportable wheat are the United States, the Europe Union, Australia, to 18 pesos later in the day. ed and private economists say overall consumer supply has meanwhile sent local bread prices soar- Canada and Russia. Another factor that has reduced Official data show bread prices are rising much prices rose 1.9 percent in June, according to a ing, fueling one of the world’s highest inflation rates Argentina’s wheat supply, is farmers are shifting faster than other consumer prices. But the govern- Reuters poll. — Reuters Dell faces shareholder vote on go-private plan Struggling computer giant faces tough road

WASHINGTON: With a critical vote looming on a the enterprise market but that is fickle too.” Still Icahn said in an open letter to shareholders private equity buyout for Dell, it has become Venkatraman said Dell still has a strong brand Monday that Dell’s board “has shamelessly clear the struggling computer giant faces a name and can get back on track. “I think the post- attempted to frighten stockholders throughout tough road as it tries to revive its fortunes. Dell PC market shift will take a decade to play out, but this process” by highlighting the problems of the shareholders are set to vote today on the $24.4 Dell needs to play its cards right,” he said. He PC sector and reduced profitability. billion buyout plan, which would take Dell pri- added that Dell, which has lost its advantage of “But the scary facts they bring up are often vate and allow founder Michael Dell to restruc- using the supply chain to make PCs to order, the result of Dell’s own actions,” Icahn said. Icahn ture the company without the pressures of a “needs to figure out what its role is in the post-PC has proposed a price of $14 per share for up to publicly traded firm. The plan has been endorsed world, or it will become another BlackBerry.” 71 percent of Dell stock, and recently sweetened by the prominent proxy advisory firm Jack Gold, analyst at J Gold Associates, agreed the deal by adding one warrant for every four Institutional Shareholder Services, but several that Dell needs some dramatic moves. “If the vote Dell shares, entitling the holder to one share of British Airways wishes stakeholders are opposing the buyout and cor- goes against the buyout, I think Dell would have Dell at $20. Icahn is backed by the investment porate raider Carl Icahn has been waging a cam- a much tougher time making the changes it firm Southeastern Asset Management. And Ramadan Kareem paign to derail it. needs to make in order to get back in the game another financial firm, T Rowe Price, has also indi- Some reports say the vote is likely to be close, in a big way,” Gold said. “Dell needs to re-invent cated it would oppose the buyout. “We continue KUWAIT: To welcome the holiest month in ways to travel. With Ramadan being a time and that Dell may delay the vote if it lacks a itself as the market around it has dramatically to believe the proposed buyout does not reflect the Islamic calendar, British Airways has for togetherness, and lots of our customers majority. But in any case, Dell faces a rocky shifted. The best way for it to do so would be for the value of Dell and we do not intend to sup- launched special Ramadan fares across from the UAE looking to travel either during future. “I expect the deal to go through, and if it it to forgo the short term and often irrational port the offer as put forward,” T Rowe Price chair- Kuwait. Whether customers want to travel Ramadan or afterwards, we felt that some does I would expect Michael Dell to make oversight of being a public company.” man and chief investment officer Brian Rogers during Ramadan, which coincides with the specially discounted fares would be the per- changes rapidly,” said Roger Kay, analyst at Dell, once the world’s biggest PC seller, has said. summer holidays, or after Ramadan in order fect way to give something back.” Endpoint Technologies Associates. “Those fallen behind rivals Lenovo and Hewlett-Packard Yet some analysts say there is little alternative to celebrate Eid, British Airways’ specially Fares start from just KWD 212 in World changes are likely to involve slimming down and faces pressure because of slumping comput- to the buyout and that Icahn has neither the crafted fares offer something for everyone. Traveller, KWD 484 in World Traveller Plus, some of the existing business and investment in er sales. A recent survey showed worldwide sales finances nor the vision to turn Dell around. “He The specially discounted fares are available KWD 946 in Club World and KWD 1,626 in some areas of promise.” of personal computers dropped for a fifth con- doesn’t know how to run a tech company, he across British Airways’ extensive route net- First from Kuwait to Europe. To fly across the As a private company, Dell would be less prof- secutive quarter in the April-June period. Dell has doesn’t have the first clue,” Kay said, adding that work throughout Europe, the USA and Atlantic, fares start from KWD 348 in World itable for a time but could reorganize with a failed in smartphones and tablets, but has seen an Icahn-run Dell would be “bad for customers, Canada. With the sale running across all four Traveller, KWD 582 in World Traveller Plus, longer view in mind, said Boston University pro- some success in software and business services partners, and employees.” “I think he would pay cabins- World Traveller (economy), World KWD 1,137 in Club World and KWD 2687 in fessor of management N Venkatraman. “There is through its acquisitions. Some shareholders have off his partners, paying fees to investment banks Traveller Plus (premium economy), Club First. Those travelling to the UK can also a part of me that feels Dell might have missed said the buyout which sets a price of $13.65 dol- to get back some of what they invest. You would World (business class) and First - flights enjoy exclusive shopping offers by showing the boat,” said Venkatraman. “They missed the lars a share undervalues Dell and have rallied see a chopping up of the company and the must be booked before 21 July for travel their British Airways boarding pass at select whole mobile device shift. Then they went after around Icahn’s effort to find an alternate plan. destruction of Dell.” — AFP until 31 October 2013. retailers. More information can be found at Paolo De Renzis, area commercial man- ba.com/retail offers. A full timetable of ager, Middle East and Central Asia, said, “We British Airways’ flights to London and Creative wireless headsets regularly run special offers and discounted beyond is available online at ba.com, where fares at times of the year to benefit our trav- customers can book, pay and check-in ellers and offer them easy and convenient online for their flights. utilise multi-core processor

DUBAI: Creative Technology Ltd has announced the 3. Wired - USB and Analog Design Middle East launch of Creative Sound Blaster EVO Wired connectivity options are also available. The Sound Blaster EVO ZxR and Sound Blaster GBI and Zajil announce ZxR and Sound Blaster EVO Zx - the world’s first wire- Users are able to enjoy clear 24-bit digital audio by EVO Zx boast a striking design that personifies high- less headsets that utilise a built-in multi-core Sound connecting their headsets to PCs and Macs via a USB performance, style and attitude. Red and black capacity sale agreement Blaster SB-Axx1 processor for enhancement and cus- connection. Each headset in the Sound Blaster EVO accents and brilliant ear cup illumination mixed with tomization of audio quality for playback of music, Series can also be connected to smart devices via a a rugged yet comfortable construction adorn these movies and games and for voice communications. standard analog 3.5mm jack. technologically advanced headsets. Both headsets The audio-enhancing capabilities of the Sound are designed for easy stowage, with the Sound Blaster EVO ZxR and Sound Blaster EVO Zx fill a dire Blaster EVO ZxR sporting a fold-flat design and the need in an age where mobile device users tolerate Sound Blaster EVO Zx being fully collapsible. the sound quality from compressed sources of audio played on smart devices - such as MP3 files, YouTube Pricing and Availability and other video sharing sources, streamed music or The Sound Blaster EVO ZxR wireless headset, mobile games - as a primary source of entertainment priced at 1199AED, will be available in August 2013, on-the-go. George Ng, Regional Sales Director, and the Sound Blaster EVO Zx wireless headset, Creative Technology, said, “The Sound Blaster EVO priced at 899AED, will be available in August 2013 at Series represents the next step in the evolution of creative.com, and will be available at selected retail- the headset. Until now, headsets were designed to ers. play any audio as it is, regardless of its quality. The The Value Editions: Sound Blaster EVO Wireless Sound Blaster EVO Series, however, intelligently and Sound Blaster EVO enhances audio in real-time, delivering detailed, Launching together with the high-end Sound immersive audio that users in the Middle East will Customisation Blaster EVO ZxR and Sound Blaster EVO Zx are two thoroughly enjoy. These are the only headsets you The user can also look forward to full customisa- more affordable headsets in the Sound Blaster EVO will ever need, no matter what kind of digital enter- tion of audio settings. The SBX Pro Studio and family - the Sound Blaster EVO Wireless and Sound tainment you enjoy. For music, movies and games, CrystalVoice software suites are completely cus- Blaster EVO. While these headsets do not come with and also for phone and video calls, the Sound Blaster tomisable by Sound Blaster EVO ZxR and Sound an integrated audio processor, they still provide high KUWAIT: Gulf Bridge International (GBI), GBI. “Today’s news marks the fifth partner EVO Series far surpasses the capabilities of other Blaster EVO Zx users via the Sound Blaster Central performance audio with the same powerful 40mm the Middle East’s first carrier neutral opera- agreement for us in Kuwait, who takes the headsets on the market.” application, available for iOS and Android devices. drivers as the Sound Blaster EVO Zx. Users can still tor and the owner of the largest and highly strategic decision to entrust GBI with his Users can also calibrate and customise settings on enjoy advanced audio processing and audio customi- equipped regional submarine cable bridg- connectivity to the world. This new ven- Communications the PC/Mac with the included Sound Blaster EVO sation with Sound Blaster EVO Control Panel while con- ing the Middle East to the world, and Zajil ture is a reflection of GBI’s priority to Beyond enhanced audio playback quality, the Control Panel software. Users can also conveniently nected to the PC/Mac via USB, and high quality wire- Telecom, Kuwait’s leading information expand its core operations and to continue Sound Blaster EVO ZxR and Sound Blaster EVO Zx activate SBX Pro Studio technologies and volume less audio when connected to smart devices via a technology and communication service delivering state of the art infrastructure headsets are ideal for communication usage with levels with buttons located on the ear cups of the Bluetooth connection (for the Sound Blaster EVO provider in the MENA region, announced and cutting edge technology. Evidently today’s smartphone and tablets. Users can experi- Sound Blaster EVO Series headsets. Wireless) or standard analog audio via the 3.5mm jack. the signing of a capacity sale agreement. there is growing demand for the technolo- ence crystal clear communications. Even in noisy Zajil is Kuwait’s first Internet service gy we supply and we are thrilled to be environments, they can communicate clearly. These provider and the region’s leading MPLS working with progressive organizations two headsets feature a dual microphone array clever- Peru court orders govt service provider. Zajil’s data center in like Zajil Kuwait who are committed to ly concealed in their ear cups, which work in perfect Kuwait is one of the most advanced data excellence and share our vision,” he added. harmony with the SB-Axx1 processor and to pay 40-yr-old bonds centers in the country providing cloud Activated in Feb 2012, GBI is the first CrystalVoice Focus(tm) technology to create an services. A major part of Zajil’s success is sub-sea cable to go live with 100G technol- acoustic zone around the user’s mouth to suppress LIMA: Peru’s top court on Tuesday ordered the say the liability is far larger, between $4.6 billion owed to the fact that Zajil has been at the ogy, spanning to all major European cities surrounding noise, enabling clear voice pickup - per- government to pay 40-year-old land reform and $8 billion, or about 4 percent of Peru’s gross forefront of introducing new services to its and growing to become a major trans- fect for making phone calls, Skype calls, and for gam- bonds at their current value and with interest, domestic product. customers. Through its operations in the porter for many operators in the Middle ing communications. These two top-of-the-range terms that will likely lead to a payment worth sev- Previous Peruvian presidents have resisted MENA region and partnering with global East and Europe to India. It is offering this headsets also come with the inNoiseReduction(tm) eral billion dollars. The government has six honoring the bonds, saying they lacked the technology leaders, such as GBI, Zajil is capacity on the first Gulf network ever feature, which suppresses unwanted background months to pass a decree with further details on cash, even after the court ruled 12 years ago able to quickly bring the most innovative built in a loop configuration, with routing noise from an incoming call so that the caller can be how to appraise the bonds and carry out the pay- that the government should pay up. Paying off services to its customers in the region. onwards to Europe, Asia, and Africa. heard clearly. Users can also transmute themselves ments, two years to recognize the debt and eight the bonds will officially put their value on the Speaking on the occasion, Zajil’s The Gulf Ring is a self-healing ring that into various fantastical characters by applying vari- years to pay it off, the court’s president Oscar government’s books, though resolving the out- Managing Director and CEO, Khalifa Al- is designed to reroute traffic in the case of ous fun voice effects (CrystalVoice FX(tm)) in their Urviola said. The payments don’t have to be in standing debt might also boost Peru’s credit rat- Soulah stated, “Zajil has always placed its a cable cut or disruption. This guarantees calls or gaming communications. cash and could be made in the form of land or by ings. Last week Humala asked the court to customers’ interest first. Be it a business or that our customers, and consequently the issuing new bonds, he told local news station RPP. abstain from ruling on “sensitive” topics such as an individual, staying connected is of the end user, always have access to connectivi- Connectivity Peru’s President Ollanta Humala’s administra- the land bonds until Congress named new utmost importance and Zajil signing with ty and better serve mission critical applica- The Sound Blaster EVO Series comes with a full tion has previously said it would comply with the members to the court - suggesting the court’s GBI is another step towards ensuring that tions. As the region’s first carrier-neutral range of connectivity options: long-awaited decision, which aims to clear up a decision would lack legitimacy. our customers always stay connected.” He operator, GBI is offering this secure capaci- 1. High Quality Wireless bitter chapter in Peruvian history. The bonds were Humala was elected in 2011 after pledging to further added that GBI has made a major ty to any organization. This means new The wireless headsets utilise the aptX and AAC issued as compensation for land confiscated and make sure the poor benefited from Peru’s difference in the communications sector in operators can more easily break into the Bluetooth audio codecs for the highest-quality audio redistributed to the poor in the 1970s. The resolu- decade-long economic boom. Bond payments the Middle East and Zajil is extremely hap- market, and existing operators can diversi- and lowest possible latency. tion said the president of Peru’s Constitutional could further anger critics who say Humala has py to establish a partnership with GBI. fy their routing. GBI was named the Best 2. NFC - Tap to Connect and Play Tribunal ruled in favor of bondholders after mem- favored the rich, as public sector doctors strike “The Kuwaiti market has always been, New/Niche player of 2012 by Capacity, and They can also quickly and easily connect to bers were split 3-3 on whether to force the gov- for wage increases and civil servants and univer- and will continue to be a strategically best Telecom’s Technology Investment of Bluetooth devices using Near-Field Communication ernment to pay off the debt. Conservative esti- sities protest performance-based reforms. Much important market for us,” commented 2012 by CommsMEA in recognition of its (NFC), requiring only a simple tap from an NFC- mates put the value of land-reform bonds at of the land-reform debt has been bought by local Ahmed Mekky, Board Member and CEO of industry leading achievements. enabled smart device to the headset to establish a between $1 billion and $3 billion. Other estimates and foreign creditors over the years. —Reuters connection. technology THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 Microsoft asks Holder to ease gag on NSA program

REDMOND: Microsoft Corp. yesterday sent a letter the total requests and report only how many it has Technology companies like Google, Facebook government unfettered access to its servers, but to US Attorney General Eric Holder calling on him to received, in increments of 1,000. Microsoft said in and Microsoft have come under fire for cooperating turned over information regarding specific personally review a gag order that prevents the June it received between 6,000 and 7,000 requests with the NSA’s Prism program, in which the govern- accounts after reviewing the legality of the company and others from further discussing secret from both law enforcement and national security ment seizes records including emails, chats and requests. national security requests for customer emails, officials in the last six months of 2012. video calls. The system was exposed by The Smith said Microsoft did not give the govern- Skype calls and documents stored on its servers. Microsoft’s general counsel, Bradford Smith, Guardian and Washington Post newspapers in a ment the ability to break into encrypted emails. The letter follows Microsoft’s motion in a secret argues in the letter that the gag order violates the series of stories that began in June and which relied Rather, he said the company turned over material court last month asking for permission to break out company’s constitutional right to free expression, on documents supplied by former NSA contractor from its servers, where data remains unencrypted. which requests were from law enforcement officials which is constrained only “by a narrowly tailored Edward Snowden. He also said that back-end improvements to and which were from the National Security Agency. compelling government interest.” Smith also clarified in a blog post Tuesday the Skype “were not made to facilitate greater govern- It hasn’t received a response. “Numerous documents are now in the public company’s position mainly in response to a story in ment access to audio, video, messaging or other A spokesman for the attorney general said the domain. As a result, there is no longer a compelling The Guardian last week that said Microsoft gave the customer data.” Smith also said that Microsoft has office is reviewing the letter. Currently, the company government interest in stopping those of us with U.S. government special access to unencrypted never turned over data about business or govern- is limited in what it can publicly say about the knowledge from sharing more information,” Smith emails and video calls over its Skype service. ment clients to any government based on a nation- requests for information and is forced to combine wrote. He reiterated that Microsoft did not give the al security request. — AP Engineers seek a cheaper biodegradable polymer Plants-to-plastics vision

CAMBRIDGE: Nearly all the plastics sold today years since he and colleague Anthony Sinskey, an ing the PHB into a chemical called crotonic acid, come from petroleum and aren’t biodegradable. MIT biology professor, discovered metabolic which can be used as a feedstock for polymers. But researchers at Metabolix in Cambridge, genes that allow bacteria found in soil to naturally After the PHB is extracted or the crotonic acid Massachusetts, are genetically engineering produce a polymer known as PHA. produced, remnants of the grass could be burned switchgrass to produce a biodegradable polymer But after they founded Metabolix, it took a as a biomass energy source that produces lower that can be extracted directly from the plant. That decade to optimize metabolic systems in the bac- net carbon emissions than fossil fuels. could transform the economics of making teria to produce useful amounts of PHA. Doing so Metabolix calculates that the grass must pro- biodegradable polymers. Metabolix already sells in plants is even more difficult. “It’s much more duce 10 percent of its weight as PHB to be eco- such a polymer, but it’s produced by bacteria that complex and time- consuming to engineer a nomically competitive with other sources of feed on plant sugars in expensive fermenters. A complex and slow-growing species like switch- biodegradable plastics. The company has already NEW YORK: CEO Marissa Mayer and CFO Ken Goldman face the cameras recently. plant-based process, which could use crops grass versus a very simple bacterium,” Peoples nearly doubled the PHB content in switchgrass, grown on marginal lands, would require less says. Now, Metabolix plant scientists are working from 1.2 percent in 2008 to 2.3 percent last year, equipment. anew on inserting those genes, plus others that including 7 percent in the leaves. Mayer helps Yahoo Metabolix estimates that it could ultimately regulate growth, into plants including switch- The process would still produce some carbon sell its plant-based polymers at less than half grass, camelina, and sugarcane. In switchgrass, emissions: growing and harvesting plants today’s prices. Whereas today’s end products are they’re coaxing the plant to produce and store in requires fossil-fuel-based fertilizers and fossil-fuel- regain its stature niche items like biodegradable plastic shopping its tissues a specific type of PHA, known as PHB, powered machines. But Peoples predicts it would bags, more widely used types of products and that can be used to make injection-molded prod- be cleaner overall than producing plastic from NEW YORK: Yahoo Inc. lured Marissa Mayer topics are most likely to appeal to different packaging could then become economical. ucts such as electronics housings. fossil fuels, though a full analysis has yet to be from Google in July to become its fifth CEO in people so the news feed can be fine-tuned to The plants-to-plastics vision has gripped The company is also working on chemical pro- done. For now, he’s eager to finally realize his as many years. Her task: Help the Internet pio- cater to different tastes. Metabolix’s chief scientific officer, Oliver Peoples, duction steps, including extraction of the PHB plants-to-plastics vision. “This is a testament to neer regain its stature after years in a financial PERSONNEL: Ross Levinsohn, who was in a former MIT research scientist, for more than 20 using solvents, and a thermal method of convert- sheer bloody single-mindedness,” he says. funk. In her first year leading the company, charge of Yahoo’s media and advertising serv- she has overseen a redesign of Yahoo services ices and served as interim CEO before Mayer’s and orchestrated several acquisitions. hiring, left the company last year. Software industry veteran Ken Goldman was named Japan gets Net campaign Here are some of the milestones on her chief financial officer to replace cost-cutting watch: specialist Tim Morse, who was hired in 2009. ALIBABA: In September, Yahoo completed Alfred Amoroso stepped down as board TOKYO: Taro Yamamoto, Japanese movie star a long-awaited, $7.6 billion deal for Chinese chairman in April and left the board in June, turned political candidate, is live-streaming his e-commerce group Alibaba to buy back near- becoming the eighth director to leave since campaign speeches and urging crowds to tweet ly half of Yahoo’s 40 percent stake. Most of the early 2012. Maynard Webb Jr. is serving as his photo. The tech-savvy approach is a major proceeds have gone back to shareholders, Yahoo’s interim chairman. departure from the old-style campaigning that but Mayer has held on to some cash to pay * STOCK PERFORMANCE: Mayer’s efforts has long dominated here. for acquisitions, such as Yahoo’s $1.1 billion at Yahoo have been well-received on Wall An upper house election this Sunday marks acquisition of Internet blogging service Street, although most of the 75 percent the first time Internet campaigning is legal in Tumblr. surge in Yahoo’s stock price under Mayer’s Japan. That has political parties and candidates, MOBILE: Mayer has made mobile services leadership has been driven by the rising value many still novices at social media, scrambling to one of her top priorities, as more people con- of Yahoo’s remaining 24 percent stake in figure out how to use it to woo voters. Some nect to the Internet on smartphones and Alibaba. Unlike Yahoo, Alibaba has seen its boast only a few hundred Twitter followers; their tablet computers. During her tenure, Yahoo growth accelerate. That success has been Facebook posts are often just photos of the noo- has created a new weather app for Apple’s steadily increasing Alibaba’s estimated mar- dles they ordered for lunch. iPhone. It also has redesigned an email app for ket value during the past year. Analysts Yamamoto, with more than 200,000 follow- smartphones, as well as the app for its Flickr believe Yahoo may be able to make another ers, is an exception. “Please take lots of photos of photo service on the iPhone and iPad. But in $10 billion to $20 billion, before taxes, when it me and tweet them,” the anti-nuclear activist February, Mayer also said Yahoo will be better sells the rest of its Alibaba holdings. told supporters this week. served with just 12 to 15 mobile applications, ACQUISITIONS: Yahoo has bought 17 Typically, candidates rush around shopping down from a “scattered” portfolio of as many companies since Mayer took over as part of malls, train stations and apartment complexes, as 75 different programs in recent years. an effort to bring in better technology and shaking hands with as many people as they can. * WEB MAKEOVER: Yahoo unveiled a obtain more engineering talent to help build They wave madly from fast-moving vans that long-awaited redesign of its home page in better mobile applications. All of the deals blare their names over and over through loud- February - the first in four years. The new have been relatively small, with the exception speakers. There’s little time for substance, what a approach has been getting people to visit of Tumblr. Mayer is betting Tumblr will pro- candidate proposes to do. more frequently and linger for longer periods vide Yahoo with a captivating hook to reel in Advocates of Internet campaigning hope that, over time, it will help voters learn what can- TOKYO: Taro Yamamoto shakes hands with a supporter as a volunteer using a video camera for of time. Yahoo said it has developed more more traffic and advertisers on smartphones Twitter aims at him during his campaign rally for the upcoming upper house election in Tokyo. sophisticated formulas to determine which and tablet computers. — AP didates stand for and make more informed deci- sions. The July 21 parliamentary election marks the first time Internet campaigning is legal in Japan. Japanese election law strictly limits the print- Yamamoto, a movie star turned lawmaker hopeful, is live-streaming his campaign speeches iPhone 6 and Samsung: ing of leaflets and other campaign material so and urging crowds to tweet his photo. — AP wealthier candidates don’t have an advantage. Previously those rules were interpreted to mean Isao Takagaki, a lawyer and author of a recent interest in politics before. “Through the Net, you Not much in common a ban on Internet campaigning. A law that book on Internet campaigning, believes social can count on so many supporters whom you’ve kicked in earlier this year lifted the ban, with media is unlikely to affect the results or voter never met,” Kimura said. “And it’s all based on NEW YORK: Apple’s A6X chip is made by sor-with a built-in modem is increasing as some exceptions. Only parties and candidates turnout in this election. Most voters are elderly, simple trust. Society isn’t so bad after all.” Samsung. But future Apple processors may the demand for low-cost phones rises. can use email - not supporters, to avoid floods of exactly the kind of people who tend to be least Twitter played an important role in galvaniz- be made elsewhere. Samsung Exynos chips-like the Exynos 5 spam. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party, which interested in the Internet, he said. ing anti-nuclear protests after the March 2011 What does the iPhone 6 and Samsung Octa-do not have integrated modems. Nor has dominated politics since World War II and “It’s going to take another 10 years,” Takagaki tsunami swamped the Fukushima nuclear plant. have in common? Not much, according to a do the chips that Samsung has manufac- built the old-style campaign methods, is busy on said. It doesn’t help that most candidates’ social Social media helped draw young people and report. Samsung will not be making tured for Apple. social media. The upcoming election is expected media efforts amount to little more than sched- women, usually not associated with street processors for Apple’s iPhone 6, so says the Though Samsung is making processors to be a landslide for the party and its coalition ules and diaries of what they did. “They all look protests in Japan. Yamamoto, the actor-politi- Korea Economic Daily in a report dated yes- for the iPhone 5, Apple is expected to partner. the same,” said Katsuyoshi Ueno, who works at a cian, was active in the movement, which in turn terday. switch to another chipmaker-such as Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has amassed more science research organization. strengthened his social media presence. To counter the “damage caused” by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing than 374,000 followers on Facebook, some Nearly three-fourths of respondents in a FastMedia Inc., the developer of Yappli, a Web “Apple shunning Samsung” for the iPhone 6 Company or TSMC-for the iPhone 6. It’s not 151,000 on Twitter, and nearly 2 million on Line, recent poll by Japan’s Kyodo news service said service that creates and manages smartphone- processor, the Korean company is develop- clear if Apple will integrate the modem an instant-messaging network popular in Asia. they didn’t expect to use the Internet to decide software applications, tailored it so customers ing a processor with an integrated 3G/4G onto the processor in future chips. In the past week, he has posted photos of him- whom to vote for in Sunday’s election. That rose could build a campaign app. The app allows modem for low-cost phones to compete A recent report in the Korea Economic self stumping for candidates and flocks of sup- to 85 percent for those in their 60s and 70s, users to flip through pages of platform docu- with Qualcomm and MediaTek, the report Daily claimed Samsung will return as a sup- porters waving Japanese flags. though about half of those in their 20s said they ments, tap on photos of candidates to learn said. Qualcomm is a leading supplier of plier to Apple with a future A9 processor, The ruling party has set up an Internet cam- would. more about them and watch YouTube video - all processors with modems built directly onto which is at least a couple of years down the paign-strategy team, which has created a smart- Yoshimasa Kimura, a designer who volunteers on a smartphone. Only two clients signed on, an the same slice of silicon as the processor. road. That same report claimed TSMC will phone game in which users swing their phone for Yamamoto’s campaign, says the Internet has opposition candidate and the Communist Party. Demand for phone processors-referred be the manufacturer of the next round of to make a cartoon Abe jump and cartwheel, helped recruit people to hang up more than “Well, it didn’t do much for our business,” to generally as an AP or application proces- Apple processors. much like Super Mario, to climb the political 14,000 posters and has drawn a new crowd, such FastMedia’s Yasubumi Ihara said with a laugh. ranks from novice lawmaker to prime minister. as technology experts who showed little or no “It’s still for those ahead of the crowd.” — AP The secret to a video-game phenomenon

STOCKHOLM: All video-game makers are creators. They are, after all, Coded in Java, a general-purpose programming language that in the business of world creation. The game creator sets down the emphasizes speed and lightness over the grand capabilities of more mountains and arranges the valleys in his or her world. The creator powerful tools, it features pixelated scenery that has nothing in com- decides upon the sky’s hue, the water’s viscosity, the pitch of birdsong, mon with the lifelike, polygon-stuffed characters and objects furnish- and the force of gravity’s pull. The creator types “Let there be light” (or ing the blockbuster video games of the day. There is a certain Lego- the C# equivalent) and there is light. The creator chooses how and like charm and blunt handsomeness to the rectangular clouds that when night falls and whether or not there will be a new dawn. The throw shadows on the game’s pea-green hills and the dumpy sheep creator conjures how time works (linear, malleable, or something else that roam them. But in an industry traditionally obsessed with chasing entirely) and writes the strands of code that form the incumbent crea- realism and authenticity, its kindergarten aesthetic at first appears tures’ DNA. Then, when everything is planned out, the creator clicks anachronistic. “RUN” to execute a Big Bang. Moreover, where the creators of big-budget games are now as Among such gods, Markus Persson, the Swedish creator of much movie directors as gods-shepherding their players through Minecraft-a video game that has, in the four years since its initial scenes and treating their characters like actors, with scripted lines of release, become a 21st-century sensation, played in bedrooms and dialogue and stage directions-Minecraft places its players in the classrooms around the world-is something of a Zeus. More than 22 game’s world with few directives. There are almost no goals or com- million people have paid to immigrate to his world and settle there mandments to guide or moderate behavior, apart from those of the (nearly three times as many as live in the gigantic multiplayer game players’ own making. So what accounts for the game’s success? Its World of Warcraft), be it on PC, smartphone, or video-game console. intelligent design reveals a watchmaker’s precision, while the elemen- Released without backing from investors or publishers, Minecraft is tal freedom it offers its inhabitants taps into some primal, irresistible inspiring a new generation of independent game makers to strike out human urges. In the beginning you’re given your own algorithmically on their own, and to approach their medium in new ways. Meanwhile, generated world (each new game creates an expanse of blocky geolo- the profits it’s generated—$86 million in 2012 alone-rival those of the gy that nobody, not even Persson, has seen before), and little more world’s largest entertainment releases. than the title functions as a clue to your tasks: to mine and to craft. Such incomparable success is unexpected. Minecraft embodies These twin abilities-destruction and creation-are mapped to the NEW DELHI: A commuter talks on a mobile phone in New Delhi yesterday. In a major reforms few of the video-game fashions that were current when it appeared. game’s two main buttons. —MCT push, the Indian government allowed 100 percent foreign direct investment in the telecom sector and raised caps in insurance and defense sectors to boost the sagging economy. — AP THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 HEALTH & SCIENCE NASA puzzled as astronaut’s helmet leak halts spacewalk Parmitano could have choked to death: NASA CAPE CANAVERAL: In one of the most harrow- Parmitano’s eyes. That’s when NASA ordered the was the 171st spacewalk in the 15-year history of ing spacewalks in decades, an astronaut had to two men back inside. Then the water drenched the orbiting outpost. There was no immediate rush back into the International Space Station on his nose and mouth, and he had trouble hearing word on when Tuesday’s undone tasks might be Tuesday after a mysterious water leak inside his on the radio lines. attempted again. helmet robbed him of the ability to speak or Cassidy quickly cleaned up the work site once None of the chores was urgent, simply things hear and could have caused him to choke or Parmitano was back in the air lock, then fol- that had piled up over the past couple years. It even drown. Italian Luca Parmitano was report- lowed him in. The three Russians and one was the fastest end to a spacewalk since 2004 ed to be fine after the dangerous episode, which American who anxiously monitored the drama when Russian and American spacewalkers were might have been caused by an unprecedented from inside hustled to remove Parmitano’s hel- ordered back in by Mission Control outside leak in the cooling system of his suit. His space- met. They clustered around him, eight hands Moscow because of spacesuit trouble. That walking partner, American Christopher Cassidy, pulling off his helmet and using towels to mop spacewalk lasted a mere 14 minutes. Tuesday’s had to help him inside after NASA quickly abort- his head. Balls of water floated away. spacewalk lasted one hour and 32 minutes. ed the spacewalk. Parmitano blinked hard several times but During NASA’s old shuttle program, space- IBICUY: This photo shows a honeycomb frame at an apiary in an island of No one - neither the astronauts in orbit nor otherwise looked fine as he gestured with his walks occasionally were stymied by stuck hatch- the Parana delta, near Ibicuy, Entre Rios, Argentina, some 170 km north-east flight controllers in Houston - breathed easier hands to show his crewmates where the water es and ripped gloves. By coincidence, Cassidy of Buenos Aires. —AFP until Parmitano was back inside and his helmet had crept around his head. Cassidy told Mission had to end a 2009 station-building spacewalk was yanked off. “He looks miserable. But OK,” Control: “To him, the water clearly did not taste early because of a potentially dangerous Cassidy assured everyone. It was the first time in like our normal drinking water.” A smiling buildup of carbon dioxide in his suit. This Revealed: Secret of years that a spacewalk came to such an abrupt Parmitano then chimed in: “Just so you know, I’m marked the sixth spacewalk for the 43-year-old halt and the first time since NASA’s Gemini pro- alive and I can answer those questions, too.” He former Navy SEAL, who’s midway through a half- gram in the mid-1960s that a spacewalker later tweeted: “Thanks for all the positive year station stint. bees’ honeycomb became so incapacitated. Spacewalking always thoughts!” Mission Control praised the crew for In 1966, two Gemini flights ended up with carries high risk; a puncture by a micrometeorite PARIS: For thousands of years, thinkers furiously, these bees operate side by side have marvelled at the feat of engineering in adjacent and opposite circular tubes, or sharp edge, if big enough, could result in that is the honeycomb. Each waxy cell is a which they build around themselves. instant death. perfect hexagon, its six wafer-thin sides They knead the flakes and tamp them In a late afternoon news conference, NASA providing not only strength to the hon- into place near the triple junctions of acknowledged the perilous situation that eycomb structure but also the smartest their tiny six-mm (quarter-inch) cylinders. Parmitano had found himself in, and space sta- way to store honey. “By virtue of a certain Heat provided by the workers and the tion operations manager Kenneth Todd prom- geometrical forethought... (bees) know physical properties of the wax then do ised to “turn over every rock” to make sure it that the hexagon is greater than the what’s necessary. At a temperature of never happens again. Spacewalking is danger- square and the triangle and will hold around 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees ous already, noted flight director David Korth. more honey for the same expenditure of Fahrenheit), the wax starts to flow slowly Then on top of that, “go stick your head in a fish- material in constructing each,” wrote a as an elastic, viscous liquid. bowl and try to walk around. That’s not anything 4th-century Greek geometer, Pappus of At the junction, surface tension causes that you take lightly,” he said. “He did a great job Alexandria. the wax to stretch like toffee. It gradually of just keeping calm and cool” as the amount of For Charles Darwin, the honeycomb pops upwards, forming a tiny point that water ominously increased. was “absolutely perfect in economising becomes an “angle” of the hexagon. “Grace under pressure,” Korth said. The two labour and wax.” But how do bees do it? During the process, the cell’s walls are astronauts were outside barely an hour, per- The answer, according to a new study, is continually stretched. Ultimately, the forming routine cable work on their second that the cells do not start out as hexa- walls of adjoining cells fuse and become spacewalk in eight days, when Parmitano report- gons but as circles. They gradually form straightened, forming a perfect hexagon. ed the leak. It progressively worsened as the into hexagons by a subtle flow of the Even if the riddle may have been minutes ticked by, drenching the back of his wax, which is turned semi-molten by the solved through a combination of physics head, then his eyes, nose and, finally, mouth. He heat from a special class of worker bee. and maths, the scientists are keen to pay could have choked or drowned on the floating globs of water, NASA officials said. In this image from video made available by NASA, astronauts discuss the aborted The solution is proposed by a trio of sci- tribute to the insects themselves. “We spacewalk aboard the International Space Station on Tuesday, July 16, 2013. — AP entists in Britain and China, led by cannot... ignore, nor can we not marvel at Between 1 and 11/2 liters of water leaked into Bhushan Karihaloo of Cardiff University. the role played by the bees in this his helmet and suit, NASA estimated. The source They looked at what happens after process by heating, kneading and thin- of the leak wasn’t immediately known, but the its fast effort and hooked them up with flight aborted spacewalks. Gemini 11 spacewalker waxy flakes are pulled from the bodies of ning the wax exactly where needed,” says main culprit appeared to be iodine laced water surgeons on the ground. Richard Gordon, was blinded by sweat. Gemini 9 foraging bees by specialist bees tasked the study, published in Britain’s Journal of that is piped through the long underwear worn Parmitano used the same suit during last spacewalker Gene Cernan breathed so heavily with building the honecomb. Working the Royal Society Interface. — AFP under a spacesuit, for cooling. The system holds week’s spacewalk without any problems. Before and sweated so much that fog collected inside nearly 4 liters, or 1 gallon. Less likely was the 32- the gush of water made its way into his helmet, his helmet visor and froze. On the Russian side, ounce (about 1 liter) drink bag that astronauts the astronaut reported a bad sensor for measur- the world’s first spacewalker, Soviet cosmonaut Visual effects workers sip from during lengthy spacewalks; Parmitano ing carbon dioxide in his suit. NASA managers Alexei Leonov, could barely get back into his reported the leaking water tasted odd. concluded the sensor likely failed due to all the spacecraft in 1965. He had to vent precious oxy- At first, Parmitano, 36, a former test pilot and water. Spare spacesuits and equipment are on gen from his suit in order to fit through the struggle sans healthcare Italy’s first spacewalker, thought it was sweat board for future NASA spacewalks. hatch. Decades passed before his peril came to accumulating on the back of his bald head. But The four remaining spacewalks planned for light. “Today was certainly a very serious issue,” LOS ANGELES: Visual effects workers fre- cent of respondents reported receiving he was repeatedly assured it was not sweat. He this year involve Russian astronauts wearing said Karina Eversley, lead spacewalk officer. The quently lack health insurance and are all the overtime pay they were entitled agreed. “How much can I sweat?” he wondered Russian suits, different than the US models. goal, each time, is to get the crew back inside forced to work long hours without over- to, while that same amount said they aloud. It was only his second spacewalk; his first They’re preparing for the arrival later this year of “before things get too serious,” she added. In time pay, a new study by the Visual received no OT. was last Tuesday, six weeks after moving into the a new Russian lab. The year’s previous four that respect, Tuesday was a success, Todd noted. Effects Society found Tuesday. The hon- Some artists have call for unioniza- space station. The water eventually got into spacewalks encountered no major snags. This “Today the team did a great job.” — AP orary professional society tapped visual tion; Visual Effects Society Executive effects supervisor Scott Squires, a VE Director Eric Roth told TheWrap that he supervisor who has worked on films like understood why artists are angry, but Animal studies “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace,” to sur- said it was important that they refuse to vey more than 600 visual effects artists work for employers who are late paying often biased around the globe. or who refuse to square up. “If you’re not The findings are not scientific and are getting paid, you shouldn’t work there,” WASHINGTON: Medical research that uses animals to test ther- part of a larger examination of the indus- Roth said. “It’s not enough to accept, ‘Oh apies for human brain disorders is often biased, claiming posi- try’s struggles to adjust to a globalizing well, we’ll pay you on the next one.’ tive results and then failing in human trials, US researchers said market and shrinking profit margins. But Artists have to take responsibility for Tuesday. The findings by John Ioannidis and colleagues at they do reveal that the financial pres- their own careers, to know their con- Stanford University could help explain why many treatments sures roiling the business have trickled tracts and to protect themselves.” that appear to work in animals do not succeed in humans. Bias down to its rank-and-file workers. Only Not that taking a stand is easy. The also wastes money and could harm patients in clinical trials, 37 percent of respondents said they industry has been buffeted by the rise of said the study in PLoS Biology. received health care through their tax incentives in foreign countries like Researchers examined 160 previously published meta- analyses of 1,411 animal studies on potential treatments for employer; and roughly 60 percent said the United Kingdom and Canada. That multiple sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s dis- they were “highly” or “very highly” con- has led to the bankruptcy of California- ease and spinal cord injury, all done on more than 4,000 ani- cerned about coverage. based films like Rhythm & Hues and an mals. Just eight showed evidence of strong, statistically signifi- Many visual effects artists are not exodus of work abroad. That in turn has cant associations using evidence from more than 500 animals. salaried employees - they are contract forced many workers to seek jobs away Only two studies seemed to lead to “convincing” data in ran- workers, often let go after work on a film from Los Angeles. Nearly one-third said domized controlled trials in humans, it said. is completed - so they do not receive full having to move to keep working was a The rest showed a range of problems, from poor study benefits. This system hasn’t helped with significant problem for them - and their design, to small size, to an overarching tendency toward pub- the issue of overtime pay: Only 38 per- families. — Reuters lishing only studies in which positive effects could be reported. Statistically, just 919 of the studies could be expected to show positive results, but the meta-analysis found almost twice as many — 1,719 — that claimed to be positive. China cracks down “The literature of animal studies on neurological disorders is This diagram provided by NASA shows the orbits of several moons located probably subject to considerable bias,” concluded the paper. close to the planet Neptune.—AP “Biases in animal experiments may result in biologically inert or on drug industry even harmful substances being taken forward to clinical trials, New tiny moon found thus exposing patients to unnecessary risk and wasting scarce BEIJING: China announced a crackdown said. The police ministry said this week research funds.” Animal studies make up a “considerable por- yesterday on misconduct in its drug mar- that GSK employees paid bribes to doc- CAPE CANAVERAL: Chalk up one more Showalter of Mountain View, Calif, made tion” of biomedical literature, with some five million papers ket, stepping up pressure on the prob- tors and officials of hospitals, medical moon for Neptune. NASA announced the the discovery. He was studying the seg- archived in the medical PubMed database, it said. While animal lem-prone industry while it pursues a associations and the government to discovery of Neptune’s 14th moon. The ments of rings around Neptune when the research exists to test safety and efficacy before new treatments bribery investigation of GlaxoSmithKline. encourage use of its medications. Hubble Space Telescope captured the white dot popped out, 65,400 miles from are attempted in humans, most interventions fail when they The six-month crackdown is aimed at According to Chinese news reports, moon as a white dot in photos of Neptune. He tracked its movement in reach human clinical trials, said the researchers. stamping out unauthorized drug produc- police say the employees funneled as Neptune on the outskirts of our solar sys- more than 150 pictures taken from 2004 “Possible explanations for this failure include differences in tion, improper online drug retailing and much as 3 billion yuan ($490 million) tem. The new moon - Neptune’s tiniest at to 2009. The considerably bigger gas the underlying biology and pathophysiology between humans sales of fake traditional Chinese medi- through travel agencies and consulting just 12 miles across - is designated giant Jupiter has four times as many and animals, but also the presence of biases in study design or cines, the State Food and Drug firms to hide the source of bribes. Police S/2004 N 1. The SETI Institute’s Mark moons, with 67. — AP reporting of the animal literature.”—AFP Administration said. said four employees including a vice pres- “We must resolutely punish illegal ident of GSK’s China unit have been acts, resolutely close illegal enterprises detained. and firmly recall problematic products,” a The official Xinhua News Agency said The Cats’ House in San Diego closes deputy director of the agency, Wu Zhen, the scheme appeared to be aimed at said in a statement on its website. evading GSK’s internal controls meant to LOS ANGELES: They enjoyed the high life for years. Mooney, 61, an artist, shared the house. Walker decided to divide the living room and dining room The announcement came two days prevent bribery. On Tuesday, state televi- Now eight cats accustomed to the creature com- published eight photo books, including “The Cats’ with a stained glass window. To keep cats from after Chinese police accused GSK employ- sion showed one of the detained GSK forts of a house that features an elevated feline House.” Over the years, the unusual home attracted damaging the furniture, they added the floor-to- ees of conducting a multimillion-dollar employees describing how he paid bribes freeway have not only been brought down to some 50 film crews from around the world. At a ceiling scratching post, wrapped with 395 feet (120 bribery campaign to encourage doctors to government officials to win support for Earth, but squeezed into a 30-foot (9-meter) book signing in 1996, more than 900 people meters) of dyed pink sisal rope. The cats loved it, to prescribe its medications. The state- use of the company’s medications. motorhome with the family Chihuahua. Gus, Sam, showed up. Walker said, but after chasing each other up the ment did not mention the British drug Also yesterday, a Commerce Ministry Dave, Stella, Lili, Eddie, Zander, Willow and Sadie The couple was featured in a Chris Smith docu- scratching post and across a suspended beam, manufacturer. spokesman warned that misconduct by the Chihuahua are biding their time in the mentary, “Home Movie” shown at the 2001 they had to stop abruptly. The new Chinese leadership that took drug manufacturers would be punished. motorhome, which is parked in the driveway of the Sundance Film Festival and later released on DVD. The answer was tunnels and freeway exten- power in November has promised to “Whether they are domestic or foreign- San Diego home known for a quarter-century as Walker, Mooney and the cats even had a line of sions. Walker used planks of Douglas fir. To accom- improve China’s health system and rein- invested enterprises, if they violate “The Cats’ House.” postcards. Until five months ago, Walker said they modate the oldest members of the troupe, he ing in surging costs of medicine and Chinese law, they will be subject to legal Bob Walker and Frances Mooney have sold the thought they’d spend the rest of their lives in the added the 23-step spiral staircase into the TV room medical care that are fueling public frus- sanctions and bear responsibility,” said house and before the month is over, they, the cats four-bedroom, 1,500-square-foot (139-sq. meter) and a carpet-covered ramp into the bedroom. Over tration. China has suffered repeated scan- spokesman Shen Danyang at a news and the dog are moving to Fredericksburg, Virginia. home overlooking Mission Bay. Built in the 1950s, it the years, they’ve had 35 cats, though never more dals over fake or shoddy medications, briefing. Meanwhile, the Cabinet’s plan- Walker and Mooney moved into the house in 1986 was also Mooney’s childhood home. than a dozen at once. They had eight litter boxes some of which caused deaths and ning agency is investigating production and turned it into a human-sized cat condo with “Then we decided to go on a new adventure around the house and cleaned a lot, Walker said. In injuries. Regulators have launched costs at 60 Chinese and foreign pharma- 140 feet (42 meters) of elevated highway, tunnels, and move to the East Coast,” Walker said. Sadie, the motorhome, they don’t have as much to clean, repeated crackdowns on false advertising ceutical manufacturers, according to ramps, a spiral staircase, rest areas and scenic vis- Zander and Willow are 3, so this will probably be but there is only room for one litter box - on the and other violations, but with limited suc- state media, possible as a prelude to tas. It even had a floor-to-ceiling scratching post. the couple’s last batch of cats, he said. Cats are 15- shower floor - and they have to change it at least cess. revising state-imposed price caps on The kitty thoroughfare remains but has been paint- or 20-year commitments and they don’t want to twice a day. In Fredericksburg, they plan to buy a From July through December, investi- key medications. The government also is ed white like the rest of the house. The new owners leave any behind. Mooney “was always bonkers for home and build a bigger, better, longer, stronger gators will examine manufacturers, mar- investigating possible price-fixing by don’t have a cat. It used to be a kaleidoscope of cats,” Walker said. On their wedding day in 1973, and more artistic catwalk. Walker said he’s anxious kets, clinics and online stores, the agency foreign milk suppliers.— AFP colors. Even the outside was purple. they adopted Beauregard, their first cat as a couple. to start on a two-story cat house, but he’s a little Walker, 63, a photographer and builder, and The ceiling superhighway started when they worried about the slope challenge. —AP THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 HEALTH & SCIENCE Indonesia set to ratify haze treaty by early 2014

KUALA LUMPUR: Indonesia said yester- are liable to be jailed.” Indonesia has mised to share such data only among Strange fossil throws light day it hopes to ratify a regional treaty by blamed its parliament for the long delay governments “after intense consulta- early next year to fight smog from forest in ratifying the haze agreement. Jakarta tions... in the aftermath of the worst haze on dinosaurs’ lost continent fires that brings misery to millions, but had sought legislators’ approval for ratifi- episode that we have ever experienced”. an activist said tougher steps are need- cation, but the proposal was rejected in “We told the other ministers quite frankly PARIS: Palaeontologists in Utah yesterday said they into central North America, leaving two big landmass- ed. “We hope we can ratify the agree- 2008. The pact has again been submitted that this could not be business as usual,” had found the fossil of a strange horned dinosaur es riding above a warm, shallow sea. One, in the east, ment by the end of the year or early next to the legislature. Kambuaya said eight he said in a statement on Facebook. “It is which roamed an island continent known as has been called Appalachia, while an Australia-sized year,” the country’s Environment Minister companies are being investigated in con- a pity that we could not get greater Laramidia. Dubbed Nasutoceratops titusi, the creature landmass in the west, running from Alaska all the way Balthasar Kambuaya told reporters. lived during the Late Cretaceous about 76 million years down to Mexico, has been named Laramidia, accord- Earlier yesterday Kambuaya and environ- ago. It belonged to the family of herbivore ceratops ing to a 17-year-old theory. ment ministers from four other ASEAN dinos, of which the famous triple-horned triceratops Laramidia was a stomping ground for dinosaurs. was a member. N. titusi is “remarkable” even for a cer- Tyrannosaurs, hadrosaurs, dromaeosaurids and countries, which together form the atops, according to the researchers. Its skull-uncovered troodoontids have all been found there. Alberta, Southeast Asian bloc’s “haze committee”, nearly intact-comprised an oversized snout, extraordi- Montana and Alaska have provided rich finds of cer- met to discuss ways to prevent the narily long, blade-like horns that pitched forward over atopses. The unusual shape of N. titusi shows how Indonesian forest fires. the eyes, and a trademark bony frill at the base of the giant species differentiated to fit in to a local habitat, a The blazes on Sumatra island, caused head. From horntip to tailtip, it was about four metres process called provincialism, says the study. by the slash and burn method of land (14 feet) long. All ceratopsids have greatly enlarged At present, there are five giant (rhino-to-elephant- clearance for cultivation, left neighbour- nose regions, but Nasutoceratops is a champion. sized) mammals on the entire continent of Africa. But Why, though, is unclear. “The jumbo-sized schnoz in the late Cretaceous, there may have been more ing Singapore and Malaysia choking in of Nasutoceratops likely had nothing to do with a than two dozen huge species ofdinosaurs living on a June on the worst haze in more than a heightened sense of smell, since olfactory receptors landmass about one-quarter that size. “We’re still decade. The air pollution scared off occur further back in the head, adjacent to the brain,” working to figure out how so many different kinds of tourists, forced schools to close and said Scott Sampson of the University of Utah. “The giant animals managed to co-exist on such a small caused a rise in respiratory illnesses. function of this bizarre feature remains uncertain.” His landmass,” noted Loewen. N. titusi’s monicker is a Indonesia is the only member of the colleague, Mark Loewen, said the dino’s “amazing hybrid of Greek and Latin meaning large-nosed and Association of Southeast Asian Nations horns” “were most likely used as visual signals of domi- horned-faced. It also honours Alan Titus, a pioneer in nance and, when that wasn’t enough, as weapons for palaentology at the Grand Staircase-Escalante which has still not ratified its Agreement combatting rivals.” National Monument, comprising 760,000 hectares (1.9 on Transboundary Haze Pollution, bro- The evidence provides more tantalising details million acres) of high desert terrain in south-central kered in 2002. about a 27-million-year spell in the Late Cretaceous Utah, where the fossil was found in 2006. The research The treaty aims to stop cross-border when high temperatures melted global icecaps and is published in the British journal, Proceedings of the smog from forest fires by requiring par- forced up sea levels, says the study. The ocean spilled Royal Society. —AFP ties to prevent burning, monitor preven- tion efforts, exchange information and provide mutual help. It also binds signa- tories to “respond promptly” to requests for information from countries hit by the KUALA LUMPUR: Singapore’s Environment Minister Vivian Balakrishnan (left) smoke, and to take steps to implement speaks to his Indonesian counterpart Balthasar Kambuaya during the 15th sub- their obligations under the treaty. regional ministerial steering committee (MSC) on Transboundary Haze Pollution T. Jayabalan, a public health consult- at a hotel. — AFP ant and adviser to Friends of the Earth nection with the recent haze crisis and transparency and public access.” Malaysia, praised Jakarta’s move to vow the government would identify them “as The Sumatra fires have been largely to ratify the treaty but warned that lax soon as possible”. blamed on palm oil firms using the illegal law enforcement meant the smog prob- He said Jakarta was prepared to share but cheap method of burning vast tracts lem would not go away. “It is a lukewarm concession maps of fire-prone areas with of rainforest and peatland to clear them measure. You can have all the regula- other governments, but they would not for planting. Besides Indonesia, Malaysia tions, but if enforcement is lax, we will be made available to the public as and Singapore, Thailand and Brunei also continue to have haze,” he told AFP. Singapore had requested. took part in the regional meeting. Faizal Jayabalan said large swathes of com- The concession maps show who has Parish, senior technical adviser to bustible peatland in Sumatra also meant the right to plant crops or log particular ASEAN’s peatland forests project, said enforcement would be difficult. “What tracts of land, allowing them to be inves- there was no quick fix for the dreaded we need is meaningful self-regulation. tigated and prosecuted for fires. haze. “There is no magic wand... it is Public health should override profits,” he “We are not allowed to publish con- going to take a long time to reverse the said. “We need a code of practice which cession maps to the public,” he said. situation,” he said, adding that with dry includes deterrent measures to prevent Singapore’s Environment Minister Vivian weather expected there could be more burning, where directors of companies Balakrishnan said his country compro- haze in the coming months.— AFP ZURICH: A Squirrel Monkey tries to get frozen fruit in Switzerland. — AP WHAT’S ON THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 Exquisite culinary experiences at Sheraton SEND US YOUR or a new experience, enjoy your elegance of the English Tea Lounge and INSTAGRAM PICS Ramadan nights at Sheraton enjoy the traditional English hospitality FKuwait’s newly opened restaurants where you can discover the best of hat’s more fun than clicking a beauti- at the Grand Avenue, The Avenues which English Tea, light snacks, selection of ful picture? Sharing it with others! Let include the Lebanese Le Tarbouche, fresh coffee and other beverages in a Wother people see the way you see Indian Bukhara, Iranian Shahrayar and fabulous atmosphere. Fahed Abushaar, Kuwait - through your lens. Friday Times will the international Al Hambra open for Area Director/ General Manager of feature snapshots of Kuwait through Instagram Iftar and Suhour daily until 1:00 am Sheraton Kuwait wishes everyone where the traditional settings of Ramadan Mubarak and invites you all to feeds. If you want to share your Instagram pho- Ramadan and the warm family atmos- savour in the divine ensemble of experi- tos, email us at phere can be experienced. ences in celebration with family, friends [email protected] For a moment of respite, relax in the and loved ones during the holy Month.

Announcements

Indian Embassy sets up helpline he Indian Embassy in Kuwait has set up helpline in order to assist Indian T expatriates in registering any com- plaint regarding the government’s ongoing campaign to stamp out illegal residents from the country. The embassy said in press release yesterday that it amended its previous statement and stated if there is any complaint, the same could be con- veyed at the following (as amended): Operations Department, Ministry of Interior, Kuwait. Fax: 22435580, Tel: 24768146/25200334. It said the embassy has been in regular contact with local authorities regarding the ongoing check- ing of expatriates. The embassy has also Enjoy the taste of true Espresso at conveyed to them the concerns, fears and Vergnano Cafe at Olympia Complex apprehensions of the community in this regard. The authorities in Kuwait have con- he superior quality of the blends espresso to everyday life at home. veyed that strict instructions have been comes from the meticulous selec- Espresso is now available in Kuwait, issued to ensure that there is no harass- Ttion of the best raw materials avail- through Al-Sanabel Al-Thahabiya Est. Tel: ment or improper treatment of expatriates able, and from an extraordinary produc- 22413795/98. Espresso Vergnano can be by those undertaking checking. “The tion process. Cafe Vergnano is the first to ordered through www.taw9eel.com embassy would like to request Indian expa- introduce an innovation that brings all the Espresso Vergnano capsules are compati- triates to ensure that they abide by all passion and pleasure of the perfect ble with other espresso machines. local laws, rules and regulations regarding residency, traffic and other matters,” the release read. It would be prudent to always Mais Al-Ghanim offers special dining carry the Civil ID and other relevant docu- ments such as driving license, etc. In case an Indian expatriate encounters any experience throughout Ramadan improper treatment during checking, it may be conveyed immediately with full details and contact particulars to the embassy at the following phone number 67623639. These contact details are exclu- sively for the above-mentioned purpose only.

Issue of online visa by Indian embassy oreigners requiring visas for India need to apply it online from 16th June F 2013. Applicants may log on to the Public portal at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in. After suc- cessful online submission, the hard copy, so generated, has to be signed by the appli- cant and submitted with supporting docu- ments in accordance with the type of visa along with the applicable fee in cash at any of the two outsource centres at Sharq or Fahaheel. It is essential that applicants fill in their personal details as exactly available in their passports. Mismatch of any of the personal details would lead to non-accep- tance of the application. Fees once paid are non-refundable. All children would have to obtain separate visa on their respective passports.

8th Expo Pakistan to commence in September he 8th Expo Pakistan will be held from September 26 to 29 in Karachi. T Held annually, Expo Pakistan is the biggest trade fair in the country showcas- ing the largest collection of Pakistan’s export merchandise and services. ais Al-Ghanim announced full preparations for ing experience between 5:30 pm and 2:00 am everyday Gulf water, or the Mais Al-Ghanim restaurant in Foreign Exhibitors also use the event to Ramadan in which visitors can enjoy a variety throughout the holy month. Also, the Mais Al-Ghanim Mahboulah on the coastal road, Mais Al-Ghanim makes Mof food items presented during Iftar and Cafe continues to welcome visitors during Ramadan Ramadan nights an unforgettable experience for visi- launch their products. Expo Pakistan 2012 Suhour in special atmospheres throughout the holy everyday from Iftar until Suhour, where they can experi- tors looking to enjoy hospitality. Mais Al-Ghanim also was visited by delegates from 52 countries month. To celebrate the holy month, Mais Al-Ghanim ence Ghabqa in a very special seafront view location. continuous to offer its ‘To-Go’ service throughout and generated a business of over $ 518 redecorated its restaurants to reflect the oriental atmos- Mais Al-Ghanim also added the ‘Saj Corner’ at the cafe Ramadan for ordered made at the hotline: 1821155. In million. A 16 member delegation from phere of Ramadan where daily Iftar and Suhour menus which is located in the upper floor of the Mais Al- addition to the regular orders, Mais Al-Ghanim offers a Kuwait including reputable companies like are rich with special Ramadan food items, desserts and Ghanim restaurant in Sharq. The Saj Corner offers a vari- variety of special menus for Iftar, Ghabqa and Suhour Al-Yasra Foods also took part in the last drinks. Moreover, visitors can enjoy Oud music played ety of items that visitors can enjoy during Ghabqa. feasts that can be ordered throughout the holy month. during the Ghabqa and Suhour periods. Whether it is the Mais Al-Ghanim restaurant in Sharq exhibition. Mais Al-Ghanim restaurants offer clients special din- located at the Gulf Road and overlooking the Arabian Expo Pakistan 2013 is being held under the auspices of the Trade Development Authority Pakistan. Details about the event can be viewed www.expopakisan.gov.pk. Further information and details of sponsor- CORRECTION ship can be obtained from the office of Kuwait Times erro- Commercial Secretary, Pakistan Embassy, neously published on Jabriya (25356594) during office hours. Sunday, July 14, 2013 that Kuwait Journalists Association held a reception on the occa- sion of the holy month of Ramadan. The recep- Write to us tion was actually host- ed by the board of the Send to What’s On Kuwait Teachers Society as announced upcoming events, birthdays or by KTS Secretary celebrations by email: Masoud Al-Mutairi. [email protected] Fax: 24835619 / 20 WHAT’S ON THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 Embassy Information

EMBASSY OF AUSTRALIA The Australian Embassy Kuwait does not have a visa or immigration department. All processing of visas and immigration matters in conducted by The Australian Consulate-General in Dubai. Email: [email protected] (VFS) [email protected] (Visa Office); Tel: +971 4 355 1958 (VFS) - +971 4 508 7200 (Visa Office); Fax: +971 4 355 0708 (Visa Office). In Kuwait applications can be lodged at the Australian Visa Application Centre 4B 1st Floor, Al-Banwan Building Al-Qibla Area, Ali Al-Salem Street, opposite the Central Bank of Kuwait, Kuwait City, Kuwait. Working hours and days: 09:30 - 17:30; Sunday - Thursday. Or visit their website www.vfs-au-gcc- com for more information. Kuwait citizens can apply for tourist visas on-line at www.immi.gov.au/e visa/e676.htm. n n n n n n n

EMBASSY OF CANADA he Embassy of Canada in Kuwait does not have a visa or immi- gration department. All pro- Al-Rai Media Group hosted a ghabqa recently at the Palms Beach Hotel and Spa Kuwait, on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan. The event was attended T by the media and advertising groups in Kuwait. —Photos by Joseph Shagra cessing of visa and immigration matters including enquiries is conducted by the Canadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi. Individuals who are interested in working, Al-Rai Media Group organises ghabqa studying, visiting or immigrating to Canada should contact the Canadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, website: www.UAE.gc.ca or www.goingtocanada.gc.ca, E-mail: abdbi- [email protected]. The Embassy of Canada is located at Villa 24, Al- Mutawakei St, Block 4 in Daaiyah. Please visit our website at www.Kuwait.gc.ca. The Embassy of Canada is open from 07:30 to 15:30 Sunday through Thursday. The recep- tion is open from 07:30 to 12:30. Consular services for Canadian citizens are provided from 09:00 until 12:00, Sunday through Wednesday. n n n n n n n EMBASSY OF GREECE The Embassy of Greece in Kuwait has the pleasure to announce that visa applica- tions must be submitted to Schengen Visa Application Centre (VFS office) located at 12th floor, Al-Naser Tower, Fahad Al-Salem Street, Al- Qibla area, Kuwait City, (Parking at Souk Watia). For information please call 22281046 from 08:30 to 17:00 (Sunday to Thursday). Working hours: Submission from 08:30 to 15:30. Passport collec- tion from 16:00 to 17:00. For visa applications please visit the following website www.mfa.gr/kuwait. n n n n n n n

EMBASSY OF INDIA During the holy month of Ramadan, the office timings of the Indian Passport and Visa Service Centres of BLS International Visa Services Co., Kuwait, situated at (i) Emad Commercial Centre, Basement Floor, Ahmed Al Jaber Street, Sharq, Kuwait, and (ii) Mujamma Unood, 4th floor, Office No. 25-26 Makka Street, Fahaheel, Kuwait, will be from 8am to 3pm from Saturday to Thursday (i.e. six days a week). Tokens for submission of applications will be issued till 2pm only. Delivery of Passports and Visas will be from 11am onwards till 3pm. Embassy of India, Kuwait, will maintain its usual working hours.

n n n n n n n EMBASSY OF SOUTH AFRICA During the holy month of Ramadan, the South African Embassy will be open to the public, Sunday through Thursday from 09:00 am to 14:00 pm. Please note that the Consular Section operation hours will be from 09:30 am to 12:00 pm, Sunday through Thursday. n n n n n n n EMBASSY OF US Parents of Kuwaiti citizen children may drop off their sons’ and daughters’ visa applications - completely free of an inter- view or a trip inside the Embassy. The chil- dren must be under 14 years of age, and addition- al requirements do apply, but the service means parents will no longer have to schedule individual appointments for their children, nor come inside the Embassy (unless they are applying for them- selves). The service is only available for children holding Kuwaiti passports. To take advantage, par- ents must drop off the following documents: Child Visa Drop-off cover sheet, available on the Embassy website (http://kuwait.usembassy.gov/child_visas.htm) - Child’s passport; The Child’s previous passport, if it contains a valid US visa; 5x5cm photo of child with eyes open (if uploaded into DS-160, photos must be a .jpg between 600x600 and 1200x1200 pixels, less than 240kb, and cannot be digitally altered); A completed DS-160 form; Visa Fee Receipt from Burgan Bank; A copy of the valid visa of at least one parent. If one parent will not travel, provide a visa copy for the traveling parent, and a passport copy from the non-traveling parent with a letter stating no objection to the child’s travel. - For chil- dren of students (F2): a copy of the child’s I-20. Children born in the US (with very few excep- tions) are US citizens and would not be eligible for a visa. Parents may drop off the application packet at Window 2 at the Embassy from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, Monday to Wednesday, excluding holidays. More information is available on the U.S. Embassy web- site: kuwait.usembassy.gov/child_visas.html n n n n n n n

EMBASSY OF VENEZUELA Working hours of the Embassy of Venezuela during the holy month of Ramadan 09.00 till 13.30. TV PROGRAMS THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013

09:00 Crime Stories 21:00 Married To Jonas 10:00 Nightmare In Suburbia 21:30 Fashion Police Cut! China snips 11:00 Crimes That Shook Britain 22:30 E! News 12:00 The FBI Files 23:30 Chelsea Lately 14:35 Border Security 13:00 Snapped: Women Who Kill 00:00 Scouted back some film 15:05 Auction Hunters 14:00 Snapped: Women Who Kill 00:55 Style Star 15:30 Auction Kings 14:30 Snapped: Women Who Kill 01:25 E! Investigates 16:00 License To Drill 15:00 The Devil You Know censorship rules 16:55 Rattlesnake Republic 16:00 Fred Dinenage: Murder 17:50 Mythbusters Casebook 18:45 Sons Of Guns 17:00 Crimes That Shook Britain hina will relax some curbs on filmmakers, the 19:40 Deconstruction 18:00 The FBI Files 03:10 Cooked government said yesterday, in a small step 20:05 How It’s Made 19:00 The FBI Files 03:35 Cash In The Attic Ctowards greater freedom of expression that has 20:35 Auction Hunters 20:00 Snapped: Women Who Kill 04:25 Bargain Hunt drawn a cautious welcome from Chinese film direc- 21:00 Flip Men 21:00 Crimes That Shook Britain 05:10 Daily Cooks Challenge tors, who argue authorities will retain a tight grip. 21:30 Sons Of Guns 22:00 Private Crimes 05:40 How Not To Decorate Chinese filmmakers will no longer have to submit 22:25 Nothing Personal 22:30 Look Who’s Stalking 06:30 Cooked screenplays to officials for review and approval before 23:20 Hellriders 23:30 Paranormal State 07:00 Daily Cooks Challenge 00:15 Sons Of Guns they can shoot a movie, the central government said 07:30 Planet Cake on its website (www.gov.cn). But films will continue 01:10 Nothing Personal 07:55 Baking Made Easy 08:20 Phil Spencer - Secret Agent to be subject to pre-screening approval in one of the 03:00 Mary & Martha-PG15 09:05 Bargain Hunt world’s strictest censorship systems in the second 05:00 Love Will Keep Us Together- 09:50 Antiques Roadshow largest movie market after the United States. PG15 10:40 Extreme Makeover: Home The measures appear to be the first, albeit tiny, 07:00 A Cinderella Story: Once Edition moves to expand some rights related to freedom of 14:20 Gadget Show - World Tour Upon A Song-PG 11:25 MasterChef Australia expression after hopes for political reform warmed 09:00 The Muppets-PG 14:45 Tech Toys 360 12:10 Come Dine With Me when a new leadership took power in March. In its 15:10 Bigger, Better, Faster, Stronger 11:00 Once Brothers-PG15 13:00 Planet Cake 13:00 Flower Girl-PG15 announcement the government did not give a reason 15:35 Bigger, Better, Faster, Stronger 13:30 New Scandinavian Cooking for the relaxation, but said that besides helping to 16:00 Ten Ways 15:00 The Adventures Of Tintin-PG With Claus Meyer 16:55 Kings Of Construction 17:00 The Muppets-PG 13:55 Bargain Hunt usher in new management techniques, it wanted to 17:45 Da Vinci’s Machines 19:00 The Descendants-PG15 14:40 Cash In The Attic encourage the interaction of market forces, social 18:35 Space Pioneer 21:00 Jeff, Who Lives At Home-PG15 15:25 Antiques Roadshow expectations and professional skills. 19:30 Bigger, Better, Faster, Stronger 23:00 The Darkest Hour-PG15 16:15 Extreme Makeover: Home The July 11 regulations, approved by China’s State 19:55 Bigger, Better, Faster, Stronger 01:00 Skyfall-PG15 Edition Council, or cabinet, did not say when the changes 20:20 Oddities 17:00 Phil Spencer - Secret Agent would take effect. Chinese filmmakers, who have long 20:45 Oddities 17:55 The Good Cook lobbied for restrictions to be lifted, said they wel- 21:10 Gadget Show - World Tour 18:25 Hairy Bikers’ Bake-ation comed the changes, but it was too soon to celebrate. 07:00 Web Of Lies-PG15 21:35 Tech Toys 360 19:20 New Scandinavian Cooking “Censorship of completed movies still exists,” movie 22:00 Bigger, Better, Faster, Stronger 09:00 Love Finds A Home-PG15 19:45 Come Dine With Me 22:25 Bigger, Better, Faster, Stronger 11:00 The Lucky One-PG15 20:35 Extreme Makeover: Home director Zhang Qi wrote on his microblog. 22:50 Oddities 13:00 Spooky Buddies-PG Edition “What’s more, under the new regulation, the risks 23:15 Oddities 15:00 Love Takes Wing-PG15 21:20 Antiques Roadshow from censorship will be borne fully by producers and 23:40 Gadget Show - World Tour 17:00 Beverly Hills Chihuahua 3: 22:15 Bargain Hunt creators. However, I hope this will be a good start.” 00:05 Tech Toys 360 Viva LA Fiesta!-PG 23:00 Phil Spencer - Secret Agent Tang Yi, a production executive, wrote on his 00:30 Weird Connections 19:00 My Own Love Song-PG15 23:55 Cash In The Attic microblog, “The only way out for China’s film censor- 01:00 Tech Toys 360 21:00 Shadow Dancer-PG15 00:40 Come Dine With Me ship is the implementation of a grading system”. 01:25 Tech Toys 360 23:00 Violet & Daisy-18 01:30 MasterChef Australia China does not have a film ratings system to help 01:50 Tech Toys 360 01:00 Beverly Hills Chihuahua 3: 02:20 How Not To Decorate Viva LA Fiesta!-PG users pick appropriate movies. The response of Chinese social media was similarly guarded. “They make me feel the style of China’s new central leader- ship is changing into something that won’t stick to one certain type, but will allow a hundred flowers to 00:30 Dr G: Medical Examiner 03:30 Mission: Impossible - Ghost 01:20 A Haunting Protocol-PG15 03:00 Unique Sweets blossom and a hundred schools of thought to con- 02:10 Killer Kids 05:45 The Amazing Spider-Man- VIOLET & DAISY ON OSN CINEMA 03:25 Food Wars tend,” a microblogger wrote. 03:00 Deadly Affairs PG15 03:50 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives “But whether that will happen, we need to wait 03:45 I Almost Got Away With It 08:00 Brave-PG 21:30 The Colbert Report 04:15 Unique Eats and see.” China bans films with explicit sex, violence 04:30 Dr G: Medical Examiner 10:00 The American President-PG15 22:00 Malibu Country 04:40 Chopped and anything deemed politically sensitive. 05:20 A Haunting 12:00 Mission: Impossible - Ghost 22:30 The Neighbors 05:30 Iron Chef America Filmmakers often complain they are forced to censor 06:10 Nightmare Next Door Protocol-PG15 06:10 Food Network Challenge 09:00 A Better Life-PG15 00:00 Trans World Sport 23:00 The Office themselves to ensure their films get seen. Despite the 07:00 Mystery Diagnosis 14:15 Superman vs. The Elite-PG15 07:00 Unwrapped 10:45 Neverland-PG15 01:00 Super Rugby 23:30 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon controls, banned movies can be downloaded from 07:50 Street Patrol 16:00 Brave-PG 07:25 Unwrapped 13:30 A Woman-PG15 03:00 World Match Racing Tour 00:30 The Daily Show file-sharing sites or seen on pirated DVDs openly sold 08:15 Street Patrol 18:00 Waiting For Forever-PG15 07:50 Andy Bates Street Feasts 15:15 A Better Life-PG15 04:00 World Pool Masters 01:00 The Colbert Report 08:40 Real Emergency Calls 20:00 Seeking Justice-PG15 08:15 Unique Sweets in Chinese cities. Yet many banned movies, which 17:00 Boy-PG15 05:00 World Pool Masters 01:30 Seinfeld 09:05 Who On Earth... 22:00 Peacock-18 08:40 Reza’s African Kitchen often do well at international film festivals, would 19:00 Every Jack Has A Jill-PG15 06:00 Golfing World 02:00 Seinfeld 09:30 On The Case With Paula Zahn 00:00 Superman vs. The Elite-PG15 09:05 Barefoot Contessa - Back To have little appeal in China, where they are seen as 21:00 Columbus Circle-PG15 07:00 Golfing World 02:30 Friends 10:20 Solved 02:00 Brave-PG Basics being too arty, and even boring, for the mainstream. 23:00 The Crucible-PG15 08:00 Total Rugby 11:10 Disappeared 01:15 Dead Again-PG15 08:30 Trans World Sport 09:30 Amazing Wedding Cakes Many Chinese films struggle to match the popular- 12:00 Mystery Diagnosis 09:00 World Match Racing Tour 10:20 Extra Virgin ity of Hollywood blockbusters such as “Avatar” and 12:50 Street Patrol 10:30 World Pool Masters 10:45 Kid In A Candy Store “Star Trek”, despite a strict quota on foreign movies, 13:15 Street Patrol 11:30 World Pool Masters 11:10 Charly’s Cake Angels 03:00 Covert One: The Hades Factor- 13:00 Agatha Christie’s Poirot and government-backed films with patriotic content 13:40 Forensic Detectives 12:30 Total Rugby 11:40 Unique Sweets PG15 00:30 NRL Full Time 15:00 Agatha Christie’s Garden frequently bomb. China had ticket sales of $2.7 billion 14:30 On The Case With Paula Zahn 13:00 ITU World Triathlon Series 12:00 The Next Iron Chef 06:00 Captain America: The First 01:00 Rugby League State of Origin 16:00 The Jeremy Kyle Show USA in 2012, says trade group the Motion Picture 15:20 Real Emergency Calls 15:30 Rugby League State Of Origin 12:50 Reza’s African Kitchen Avenger-PG15 03:30 Trans World Sport 17:00 60 Minute Makeover Association of America. — Reuters 15:45 Who On Earth... 17:30 Trans World Sport 13:15 Barefoot Contessa 08:15 Carjacked-PG15 04:30 PGA European Tour Weekly 18:00 Emmerdale 16:10 Disappeared 18:30 World Pool Masters 13:40 Barefoot Contessa 10:00 Arctic Blast-PG15 05:30 PGA Tour Highlights 19:00 Coronation Street 17:00 Solved 19:30 World Pool Masters 14:05 Tyler’s Ultimate 11:45 Mission: Impossible II-PG15 06:30 ICC Cricket 360 20:00 Coach Trip 17:50 Forensic Detectives 20:30 Total Rugby 14:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 14:00 Carjacked-PG15 07:00 PGA Tour Highlights 20:30 Come Dine With Me Ireland 18:40 On The Case With Paula Zahn 21:00 AFL Premiership 14:55 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 16:00 Meteor Storm-PG15 08:00 Inside The PGA Tour 21:00 Foyle’s War 19:30 Dr G: Medical Examiner 22:00 NRL Full Time 15:20 Guy’s Big Bite 18:00 Mission: Impossible II-PG15 08:30 PGA Tour Highlights 23:00 Case Histories 20:20 Nightmare Next Door 22:30 Futbol Mundial 15:45 Chopped 20:15 Backdraft-PG15 09:30 PGA European Tour Weekly 00:00 The Jeremy Kyle Show USA 21:10 Couples Who Kill 23:00 Golfing World 16:35 Barefoot Contessa 22:45 Breaking Point-18 10:00 The Open Championship 01:00 60 Minute Makeover 11:00 Hotel Impossible 22:00 On The Case With Paula Zahn 17:00 Barefoot Contessa 00:30 Big Trouble In Little China- 11:00 Live The Open Championship 02:00 Emmerdale 12:00 Eden Eats 22:50 Serial Killers 17:25 Reza’s African Kitchen 23:40 I Almost Got Away With It PG15 22:00 PGA European Tour Weekly 13:00 Bizarre Foods America 02:30 Meteor Storm-PG15 22:30 Rugby League State of Origin 17:50 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 14:00 International House Hunters 18:15 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 14:30 International House Hunters 00:00 NHL 00:00 World’s Greatest Motorcycle 18:40 Guy’s Big Bite 15:00 Inside Luxury Travel - Varun 02:00 Porsche GT 3 Cup Rides 19:05 Charly’s Cake Angels Sharma 02:30 Porsche GT 3 Cup 05:15 Brandy & Mr Whiskers 01:00 Off Limits 19:30 Amazing Wedding Cakes 16:00 Globe Trekker 03:00 Ping Pong World 05:35 Brandy & Mr Whiskers 02:00 Departures 00:00 ICC Cricket 360 20:20 Chopped 17:00 World’s Greatest Motorcycle 00:30 Born To Kill 04:00 US Bass Fishing 06:00 Austin And Ally 08:00 Mr. Popper’s Penguins-PG 00:30 Cricket Friends Life T20 21:10 Chopped 03:00 Globe Trekker 01:30 Private Crimes 06:25 Suite Life On Deck Rides 10:00 Baby Geniuses-PG 04:00 Rugby World Cup Sevens 05:00 NHL 04:00 Inside Luxury Travel - Varun 02:00 My Ghost Story 06:45 Shake It Up 22:00 Staten Island Cakes 18:00 Off Limits 12:00 Daddy Day Camp-FAM 07:00 Cricket Friends Life T20 07:00 WWE Smackdown Sharma 03:00 The Haunting Of... 07:10 A.N.T Farm 22:50 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 19:00 Departures 14:00 Toys-PG15 10:00 NRL Full Time 09:00 Ping Pong World 05:00 Bizarre Foods America 04:00 Escaping Evil: My Life In A Cult 07:35 Jessie 23:15 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 20:00 Globe Trekker Around The 16:00 Baby Geniuses-PG 10:30 Rugby League State of Origin 10:00 US Bass Fishing 06:00 Eden Eats 05:00 Crime Stories 07:55 Good Luck Charlie 23:40 Food Wars World 18:00 Johnny English Reborn-PG15 12:30 ICC Cricket 360 11:00 NHL 07:00 Globe Trekker 06:00 The FBI Files 08:20 Good Luck Charlie 00:05 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 21:00 Off Limits 20:00 Grabbers-PG15 13:00 Live Cricket Test Match 13:00 WWE Vintage Collection 08:00 Departures 07:00 Snapped: Women Who Kill 08:45 Doc McStuffins 00:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 22:00 The Blue Continent 22:00 The Janky Promoters-18 21:00 Trans World Sport 14:00 WWE Bottom Line 09:00 Off Limits 07:30 Snapped: Women Who Kill 09:00 Minnie’s Bow-Toons 00:55 Unique Eats 23:00 Inside Luxury Travel - Varun 00:00 The Impostors-PG15 22:00 WWE NXT 15:00 Porsche GT 3 Cup 10:00 World’s Greatest Motorcycle 08:00 The Devil You Know 09:05 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 01:20 Unique Eats Sharma 02:00 Grabbers-PG15 23:00 UFC The Ultimate Fighter 15:30 Porsche GT 3 Cup Rides 16:00 Mobil 1 The Grid 09:30 A.N.T. Farm 01:45 Staten Island Cakes 16:30 Motor Sports 2013 09:55 A.N.T. Farm 17:30 Mass Participation 10:15 Jessie 19:00 WWE NXT 10:40 Jessie 20:00 UFC The Ultimate Fighter 11:05 Good Luck Charlie 11:25 Good Luck Charlie 11:50 Good Luck Charlie 12:15 Shake It Up 12:35 Shake It Up 14:00 The Glades 13:00 Austin And Ally 15:00 Drop Dead Diva 13:25 Austin And Ally 16:00 Emmerdale 13:45 A.N.T. Farm 16:30 Coronation Street 14:10 Jessie 17:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 14:35 Shake It Up 18:00 The Glades 15:00 That’s So Raven 19:00 Switched At Birth 15:25 Good Luck Charlie 20:00 Fairly Legal 15:50 Jessie 21:00 Suits 16:10 Shake It Up 22:00 The Hollow Crown 16:35 A.N.T Farm 23:00 Awake 17:00 Austin And Ally 00:00 Drop Dead Diva 17:20 That’s So Raven 01:00 Switched At Birth 17:45 Suite Life On Deck 02:00 The Hollow Crown 18:10 Good Luck Charlie 18:30 Shake It Up 18:55 Austin And Ally 19:20 Jessie 19:40 A.N.T. Farm 03:00 Friends 20:05 A.N.T. Farm 03:30 The Simpsons 20:30 Shake It Up 04:00 Seinfeld 20:50 Suite Life On Deck 04:30 The Tonight Show With Jay 21:15 Austin And Ally Leno 21:40 That’s So Raven 06:00 All Of Us 22:00 Jessie 06:30 Arrested Development 22:25 A.N.T. Farm 07:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 22:50 Good Luck Charlie 08:00 Seinfeld 23:10 Wizards Of Waverly Place 09:30 Modern Family 23:35 Wizards Of Waverly Place 10:00 Parks And Recreation 00:00 Hannah Montana 10:30 Arrested Development 00:20 Hannah Montana 11:00 The Tonight Show With Jay 00:45 Brandy & Mr Whiskers Leno 01:05 Brandy & Mr Whiskers 12:00 All Of Us 01:30 Emperor’s New School 12:30 Seinfeld 01:50 Emperor’s New School 13:00 Seinfeld 02:15 Replacements 13:30 Arrested Development 02:35 Replacements 14:00 The Simpsons 14:30 Parks And Recreation 15:00 Modern Family 15:30 The Daily Show 16:00 The Colbert Report 16:30 All Of Us 14:30 Style Star 17:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 15:00 Keeping Up With The 18:00 New Girl Kardashians 18:30 Family Tools 16:00 Keeping Up With The 19:00 Community Kardashians 19:30 2 Broke Girls 17:00 What Would Ryan Lochte Do? 20:00 The Tonight Show With Jay 17:30 What Would Ryan Lochte Do? Leno 18:00 E! News 21:00 The Daily Show 19:00 E!es SKYFALL ON OSN MOVIES HD 20:00 Kourtney And Kim Take Miami BREAKING POINT ON OSN ACTION HD Classifieds

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013

FOR SALE Kuwait KNCC PROGRAMME FROM THURSDAY TO WEDNESDAY Chrysler Concorde 2001 (18/07/2013 TO 24/07/2013 ) model, mileage 142,000, good condition, red color, registration up to 24-06- SHARQIA-1 MAN OF STEEL (DIG) 11:45 PM 2014, price KD 450/-. Please SA3AA WA NOUSS(DIG) 9:30 PM AVENUES-4 call after 1 pm 66143549. TATTAH (DIG) 11:30 PM WHITE HOUSE DOWN (DIG) 10:30 PM AL-KOUT.4 All items in a flat including TATTAH (DIG) 9:00 PM new sofa set, dining table, SHARQIA-3 AVENUES-5 SHAOLIN (DIG) 11:15 PM window AC, fridge, washing MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (DIG) 9:15 PM MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (DIG-3D) 9:45 PM machine, oven, TV, double WHITE HOUSE DOWN (DIG) 11:30 PM TATTAH (DIG) 12:05 AM BAIRAQ-1 coat etc. All in good condi- WHITE HOUSE DOWN (DIG) 9:15 PM tion. Tel: 66923022. (C 4463) MUHALAB-1 AVENUES-6 WHITE HOUSE DOWN (DIG) 11:45 PM 15-7-2013 THE PURGE (DIG) 9:30 PM THE PURGE (DIG) 10:15 PM SHAOLIN (DIG) 11:30 PM THE PURGE (DIG) 12:15 AM BAIRAQ-2 SITUATION VACANT SHAOLIN (DIG) 9:00 PM MUHALAB-2 360º- 1 TATTAH (DIG) 11:30 PM Required family driver with BHAAG MILKHA BHAAG (DIG) (HINDI) 9:30 PM THE PURGE (DIG) 10:30 PM at least five years experi- THE PURGE (DIG) 12:30 AM BAIRAQ-3 ence. Salary discussed dur- MUHALAB-3 MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (DIG) 9:45 PM ing interview, Tel: MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (DIG-3D) 9:00 PM 360º- 2 THE PURGE (DIG) 12:05 AM 90971158, call between 4 WHITE HOUSE DOWN (DIG) 11:15 PM WHITE HOUSE DOWN (DIG) 9:45 PM pm and 7 pm. (C 4464) 17-7-2013 BEKAS (DIG) 12:15 AM PLAZA FANAR-1 MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (DIG) 9:00 PM WORLD WAR Z (DIG) 9:00 PM 360º- 3 WHITE HOUSE DOWN (DIG) 11:15 PM CHANGE OF NAME Prayer timings SHAOLIN (DIG) 11:15 PM WORLD WAR Z (DIG-3D) 9:15 PM WORLD WAR Z (DIG) 11:30 PM LAILA I, Anwar Ahmed Abdur Fajr: 03:27 THE PUBLIC AUTHORITY FANAR-2 WHITE HOUSE DOWN (DIG) 9:15 PM Razaque, holder of Indian FOR CIVIL INFORMATION MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (DIG) 10:00 PM 360º- 4 Shorook 05:00 WORLD WAR Z (DIG) 11:45 PM Passport No. F4197729, THE PURGE (DIG) 12:15 AM SHAOLIN (DIG) 9:15 PM change my name to Shaikh Duhr: 11:54 Automated enquiry about SHAOLIN (DIG) 11:45 PM AJIAL.1 Anwar Ahmed. FANAR-3 the Civil ID card is SINGAM 2 (DIG) (TAMIL) 9:00 PM (C 4461) Asr: 15:29 SA3AA WA NOUSS(DIG) 9:30 PM 360º- 5 THU MAN OF STEEL (DIG) 11:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 6 (DIG) 10:00 PM Maghrib: 18:48 1889988 OM (DIG) (TELUGU) 9:00 PM I, Gudla Anjanamma, hold- NO THU Isha: 20:17 MARINA-1 360º- 6 er of Indian Passport No. SHAOLIN (DIG) 9:00 PM NOW YOU SEE ME (DIG) 9:15 PM J5547514 issued at Kuwait, AJIAL.2 THE PURGE (DIG) 12:05 AM MAN OF STEEL (DIG) 11:30 PM resident 1821, Chikkadpally, SINGAM 2 (DIG) (TAMIL) 10:00 PM Hyderabad, A.P. Now I THU MARINA-2 360º- 7 change my name Gudla KEVVU KEKA (DIG) (TELUGU) 9:15 PM TATTAH (DIG) 9:30 PM SA3AA WA NOUSS(DIG) 10:15 PM Anjanamma to Gudla NO THU WORLD WAR Z (DIG) 11:45 PM SA3AA WA NOUSS(DIG) 12:15 AM Anjanamma Reddeppa. Al-Madena Police Station 22434064 (C 4462) AJIAL.3 MARINA-3 360º- 8 14-7-2013 Al-Murqab Police Station 22435865 MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (DIG-3D) 9:15 PM MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (DIG-3D) 9:00 PM HONEY BEE (DIG) (MALAYALAM) 9:00 PM WHITE HOUSE DOWN (DIG) 11:30 PM MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (DIG) 11:15 PM THE PURGE (DIG) 12:05 AM MAN OF STEEL (IMAX-3D) 10:30 PM Al-Daiya Police Station 22544200 AVENUES-1 AJIAL.4 SITUATION WANTED WORLD WAR Z (DIG) 9:30 PM AL-KOUT.1 BHAAG MILKHA BHAAG (DIG) (HINDI) 9:45 PM Al-Fayha’a Police Station 22547133 WORLD WAR Z (DIG) 11:45 PM MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (DIG-3D) 9:30 PM Accountant, 8 yrs experi- WORLD WAR Z (DIG-3D) 11:45 PM METRO-1 ence in GCC in MNC B.Com Al-Qadissiya Police Station 22515277 AVENUES-2 HONEY BEE (DIG) (MALAYALAM) 9:30 PM MBA Finance, proficient in MAN OF STEEL (DIG) 9:00 PM AL-KOUT.2 SAP FICO/MM, Microsoft Al-Nugra Police Station 22616662 METRO-2 Navision Oracle, Peach Tree, NOW YOU SEE ME (DIG) 12:05 AM WHITE HOUSE DOWN (DIG) 9:00 PM Tally. Looking for job. SINGAM 2 (DIG) (TAMIL) 9:45 PM WHITE HOUSE DOWN (DIG) 11:30 PM Contact: 66128352, Al-Salmiya Police Station 25714406 AVENUES-3 THU [email protected] TATTAH (DIG) 9:15 PM AL-KOUT.3 OM (DIG) (TELUGU) 9:45 PM (C 4459) TATTAH (DIG) 11:30 PM SA3AA WA NOUSS(DIG) 9:45 PM NO THU 11-7-2013 Al-Dasma Police Station 22530801

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

Arrival Flights on Thursday 18/7/2013 QTR 136 DOHA 21:35 Departure Flights on Thursday 18/7/2013 KAC 673 DUBAI 15:05 Airlines Flt Route Time GFA 217 BAHRAIN 21:45 Airlines Flt Route Time KNE 473 JEDDAH 15:30 BBC 43 DHAKA 0:05 QTR 146 DOHA 22:00 AIC 976 GOA 0:05 OMA 646 MUSCAT 15:40 QTR 148 DOHA 0:05 JAI 576 COCHIN 22:05 AXB 490 MANGALORE 0:15 KAC 617 DOHA 15:45 JZR 267 BEIRUT 0:20 FDB 59 DUBAI 22:20 JAI 573 MUMBAI 0:20 KNE 471 JEDDAH 16:00 SAI 441 LAHORE 1:30 THY 6512 ISTANBUL 22:20 UAL 981 WASHINGTON DC DULLES 0:25 KAC 773 RIYADH 16:00 THY 764 SABIHA 1:40 AIC 981 CHENNAI 22:25 DLH 637 FRANKFURT 0:30 SVA 505 JEDDAH 16:00 JZR 539 CAIRO 0:40 UAL 981 BAHRAIN 22:40 MSR 615 CAIRO 0:30 NIA 252 ALEXANDRIA 16:50 ETH 620 ADDIS ABABA 1:45 DLH 636 FRANKFURT 23:10 JZR 502 LUXOR 1:30 RJA 641 AMMAN 16:55 GFA 211 BAHRAIN 1:55 JAI 574 MUMBAI 23:20 BBC 44 DHAKA 1:30 JZR 238 AMMAN 17:05 UAE 853 DUBAI 2:25 MSR 614 CAIRO 23:30 THY 773 ISTANBUL 2:20 QTR 135 DOHA 17:20 ETD 305 ABU DHABI 2:30 KLM 411 AMSTERDAM 23:40 SAI 442 LAHORE 2:30 ETD 304 ABU DHABI 17:20 FDB 67 DUBAI 3:10 THY 772 ISTANBUL 23:45 THY 765 ISTANBUL 2:40 JZR 538 CAIRO 17:40 RJA 642 AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA 3:10 RBG 557 ALEXANDRIA 18:20 ETH 621 ADDIS ABABA 2:45 ABY 128 SHARJAH 17:50 RBG 555 ALEXANDRIA 3:15 KNE 474 JEDDAH 20:50 UAE 854 DUBAI 3:45 UAE 858 DUBAI 18:15 MSR 612 CAIRO 3:15 KAC 786 JEDDAH 18:30 FDB 68 DUBAI 3:50 GFA 216 BAHRAIN 18:20 QTR 6058 ZARAGOZA 7:50 KAC 118 NEW YORK 16:00 RBG 556 ALEXANDRIA 3:55 SVA 511 RIYADH 18:20 KAC 382 DELHI 7:30 KAC 104 LONDON 18:45 MSR 613 CAIRO 4:15 UAL 982 BAHRAIN 18:30 KAC 302 MUMBAI 7:50 KAC 674 DUBAI 19:25 ETD 306 ABU DHABI 4:20 JZR 266 BEIRUT 18:40 KAC 412 MANILA 6:15 KAC 502 BEIRUT 18:50 QTR 139 DOHA 4:25 TAR 328 TUNIS 18:50 KAC 352 COCHIN 8:05 KAC 176 GENEVA 17:45 QTR 149 DOHA 5:15 RBG 558 ALEXANDRIA 19:00 KAC 206 ISLAMABAD 7:25 KAC 618 DOHA 19:10 QTR 6131 DOHA 6:20 GFA 220 BAHRAIN 19:50 KAC 332 TRIVANDRUM 7:55 KAC 542 CAIRO 18:15 FDB 70 DUBAI 6:30 JZR 134 BAHRAIN 20:05 QTR 138 DOHA 3:30 KAC 774 RIYADH 19:25 RJA 643 AMMAN 6:35 AXB 394 KOZHIKODE 20:15 THY 770 ISTANBUL 4:35 JZR 777 JEDDAH 17:50 GFA 212 BAHRAIN 7:00 KAC 283 DHAKA 20:15 QTR 6130 DOHA 4:50 JZR 787 RIYADH 16:15 THY 771 ISTANBUL 7:10 RBG 554 ALEXANDRIA 20:20 DHX 170 BAHRAIN 5:10 JZR 135 BAHRAIN 23:00 KAC 545 ALEXANDRIA 7:20 JAI 571 MUMBAI 20:35 FDB 69 DUBAI 5:50 NIA 251 ALEXANDRIA 15:50 BAW 156 LONDON 8:25 FDB 62 DUBAI 20:40 BAW 157 LONDON 6:30 RJA 640 AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA 15:55 JZR 534 CAIRO 9:10 ABY 120 SHARJAH 20:45 QTR 134 DOHA 16:15 JZR 555 ALEXANDRIA 6:20 KAC 561 AMMAN 9:25 KAC 331 TRIVANDRUM 20:50 ETD 303 ABU DHABI 16:35 JZR 503 LUXOR 7:40 ABY 126 SHARJAH 9:30 KAC 343 CHENNAI 20:55 UAE 857 DUBAI 16:55 KNE 472 JEDDAH 14:35 KAC 787 JEDDAH 9:35 OMA 648 MUSCAT 20:55 ABY 127 SHARJAH 17:10 KAC 351 KOCHI 21:05 KNE 470 JEDDAH 15:05 IRA 606 MASHHAD 9:40 UAL 982 WASHINGTON DC DULLES 17:15 MEA 403 BEIRUT 21:15 KNE 480 TAIF 13:20 UAE 856 DUBAI 9:50 GFA 215 BAHRAIN 17:20 AFG 415 JEDDAH 21:20 KAC 362 COLOMBO 8:45 QTR 6058 DOHA 9:50 SVA 510 RIYADH 17:20 MSC 404 ASYUT 21:25 KAC 562 AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA 14:40 QTR 133 DOHA 10:00 TAR 327 TUNIS 18:00 MSR 619 ALEXANDRIA 21:30 KAC 284 DHAKA 8:15 IRA 616 AHWAZ 10:10 GFA 219 BAHRAIN 19:05 KAC 543 CAIRO 21:30 KAC 546 ALEXANDRIA 14:15 ETD 302 ABU DHABI 10:15 AXB 393 KOZHIKODE 19:15 KNE 475 JEDDAH 21:45 KAC 788 JEDDAH 15:00 JAI 572 MUMBAI 19:35 KAC 101 LONDON 10:25 DHX 171 BAHRAIN 21:50 UAE 855 DUBAI 8:25 RBG 553 ALEXANDRIA 19:40 KAC 501 BEIRUT 11:10 MSC 402 ALEXANDRIA 22:00 IRA 605 ISFAHAN 8:40 OMA 647 MUSCAT 20:00 SYR 342 DAMASCUS 11:10 ETD 308 ABU DHABI 22:15 ABY 125 SHARJAH 8:50 FDB 61 DUBAI 20:00 GFA 214 BAHRAIN 11:25 ALK 230 COLOMBO 22:20 QTR 132 DOHA 9:00 ABY 129 SHARJAH 20:05 KAC 541 CAIRO 11:30 UAE 860 DUBAI 22:25 IRA 617 AHWAZ 9:10 MEA 402 BEIRUT 20:15 KAC 165 ROME 11:45 QTR 137 DOHA 22:35 ETD 301 ABU DHABI 9:30 AFG 415 KABUL 20:20 MEA 405 BEIRUT 11:55 KAC 301 MUMBAI 22:40 SYR 341 DAMASCUS 10:10 MSC 405 SOHAG 20:25 JZR 776 JEDDAH 12:25 GFA 218 BAHRAIN 22:45 GFA 213 BAHRAIN 10:40 MSR 618 ALEXANDRIA 20:30 JZR 786 RIYADH 12:50 FDB 60 DUBAI 23:00 MEA 404 BEIRUT 10:55 MSC 401 ALEXANDRIA 21:00 KAC 785 JEDDAH 13:00 KAC 205 ISLAMABAD 23:00 MSC 403 ASYUT 12:40 ALK 229 COLOMBO 21:10 JZR 176 DUBAI 13:20 QTR 147 DOHA 23:05 UAE 871 DUBAI 12:45 UAE 859 DUBAI 21:15 MSC 406 SOHAG 13:40 JAI 575 ABU DHABI 23:05 MSR 610 CAIRO 13:00 ETD 307 ABU DHABI 21:30 MSR 611 CAIRO 14:00 JZR 554 ALEXANDRIA 23:20 THY 766 ISTANBUL 13:10 JZR 239 AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA 22:30 THY 767 ISTANBUL 14:10 KAC 411 BANGKOK 23:40 SVA 500 JEDDAH 14:30 JZR 177 DUBAI 17:30 KNE 481 TAIF 14:10 KAC 415 KUALA LUMPUR 23:50 OMA 645 MUSCAT 14:40 JZR 535 CAIRO 16:10 UAE 872 DUBAI 14:15 JZR 528 ASYUT 23:55 DIAL 161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION stars34 THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013

CROSSWORD 254 STAR TRACK

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

You have an inner urge to be all things to all people and would rather You have an innate love of the law and working through things. You will bend than argue or make an issue. This can be beneficial if you have some outlet for your not be put off by problems and obstacles that might seem to be keeping you from your frustrations. You should be recognizing some real relief from the stress and emotional usual routine. You bring an unexpected twist or insight to several subject matters today— strain you have been experiencing of late. Make it a habit to meditate by listening to that you also seem to have a ready wit. Pay attention to the change in your pocket or purse— quiet inner voice—at least once a day for ten or fifteen minutes. You may be moved to make it count. Perhaps when you get home this afternoon, you could begin a new trend or appreciate and discover the beauty in your life and in those around you. Be careful that habit by placing your loose change in a can or jar near the door. This can go toward a clean- you do not indulge too much just now; it would be easy to become relaxed so much that ing bill or that vacation you never feel you could afford. This evening, as usual, friends will you overeat or purchase all the fun things you see. Romantic, social or artistic efforts can find you in a generous and loving mood. A surprise awaits you this evening. You may have a be enjoyed tonight. lucky streak as well today.

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

This is a great time to be with others in work, school or play. A class, lecture Before you leave for work this morning the phone rings. You have close or visiting executive has new ideas and inspirations to pass along today. Farsighted and tradi- friends and enjoy the interaction between them. The day is upbeat and active tional, you enjoy success and the successful. There can be increased income because of new from the very moment you open your eyes. Your bright wit and talkative streak make you and improved contracts. You can also increase your financial gains now by calling in loans you always ready for a conversation. You love to get your ideas across to others and communication made last year, or even earlier. There can also be some additional income through a special in any form is where you are happiest. Teaching, lecturing and guiding others should be a real sale, advertising or public relations. Financial security and enjoying the finer things in life, consideration for a professional choice. Today you will jump right in with your ideas, expressing appreciating and creating things others long to have—these experiences assume a high priori- your thoughts, etc. You can bring secrets into the light of day by the wink of your eye. You are ty. There is an exotic and glamorous dimension to your art of flirting at this time. Expect love to brilliant when it comes to insights into the mind and motivation—yours or others’. Your analyti- warm your heart tonight. cal powers are superb.

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

You enjoy exercising your mind and your sharp perceptions make finding You are effective in what you try to accomplish today. Others gather around new solutions easy. You will bring an unexpected twist or insight to whatever you to learn some special method or technique. You can be a good team player you set your mind to today. You are able to teach or help others to be more original when it as well and when it is your turn to do the listening, you learn with great enthusiasm. You would comes to the words or thoughts they use. You can exercise your mind in original ways and make an excellent counselor, teacher or even an a-1 student. You will be asked to help some- ACROSS DOWN probably have excellent eye-hand coordination. Your mental abilities make conversations fast- one that is not as smart as you are. This evening you may want to take a break from these 1. The part of the nervous system of verte- 1. By bad luck. paced and illuminating. Learning and knowing a little about a lot of things, staying in touch intense sessions of learning and teaching events to just enjoy the family. You are very apprecia- and on top of the latest developments all seem to satisfy a need for mental stimulation. tive of the people in your life and can handle emotional, personal issues and vulnerable areas brates that controls involuntary actions of the 2. An organization of military naval forces. where angels fear to tread. People sense this and trust you with sensitive matters, inner worries smooth muscles and heart and glands. 3. Relative darkness caused by light rays being Neighbors and brothers or sisters may play a role in this learning process through trivia and board games. Romance will come into play this evening. and questions of personal identity. 4. Double-walled stage of the embryo suc- intercepted by an opaque body. ceeding the blastula. 4. The father of your father or mother. 12. (computer science) The rate at which data 5. Port city of Denmark in eastern Jutland. is transferred (as by a modem). 6. A white trivalent metallic element. Cancer (June 21-July 22) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) 15. The syllable naming the sixth (submedi- 7. The longest river in England. CAPRICORN ant) note of a major or minor scale in solmiza- 8. (usually followed by `of') Released from You could be gaining quite a bit of attention from superiors or through the Working longer and harder is not necessarily the way to success. If you tion. something onerous (especially an obligation accomplishments related to your work. You may find that you enjoy your job or the feel you need to work overtime or concentrate more fully on your work, 16. Of or relating to or resulting from rickets. make it a point to take your breaks and consume healthy foods while you are at it. Others or duty). responsibility more than usual. Your employer is probably happy to get you—for you are a natural in 17. Any of various long-tailed rodents similar may depend on you too much when it comes to group issues and important meetings 9. A reptile genus of Iguanidae. management positions. This is the perfect time to be assertive and move forward with your career to but larger than a mouse. decisions. You have all the drive and energy you could want—it should be easy to channel it. The path today. You, however, are not the only important player at this meeting. There are opportu- 10. Of or relating to Linnaeus or to the system 18. A new embodiment of a familiar idea. is open and clear. Positive changes in personal attitudes are evident. This evening is a time for imagi- nities for you to achieve and help the company grow. This is always an avenue for pride of 20. A city in southern Turkey on the Seyhan of of taxonomic classification that he pro- nation and creativity. This, coupled with the ability to put your thoughts into words, allows you to cap- accomplishments. There are also opportunities to help others achieve and maintain their interest to achieve and excel. Relax and enjoy a social event tonight; you will sleep well. River. posed. tivate and spellbind. This may mean you are entertaining tonight. 21. Title for a civil or military leader (especially 11. (zoology) Lacking a tail or taillike in Turkey). appendage. 22. English physician (1624-1689). 12. (informal) Exceptionally good. 24. Someone who nudges. 13. Especially one side of a leaf. Leo (July 23-August 22) Aquarius (January 20- February 18) 14. Indicating the most important performer 26. Put up with something or somebody Today is an easy, calm day that should find everything running smoothly. This is an easy, calm day that should find everything running smoothly. unpleasant. or role. Ideas and interaction with authority figures or older people may be customary. However, work- Ideas and interaction with authority figures or older people may be in the forecast. Working 28. A state in northwestern North America. 19. A projection at the end of a piece of wood ing with the flow, rather than against the flow, should be easy. You can be a real moving force in with rather than against the energies of the day should be easy to do. There is a natural ability 30. A fertile tract in a desert (where the water that is shaped to fit into a mortise and form a the lives of others and as a natural group leader or trainer; your organizational skills are obvi- to use emotions in productive ways. Hard work and all things physical, such as sports and out- ous. This afternoon you may feel it is time to get serious about taking care of yourself and no table approaches the surface). mortise joint. door activities, should be a snap this afternoon. You are able to manage and see how to work matter what size or look you want to achieve, you are wise to make future medical appoint- 31. Plant growing in the sea, especially marine 23. Fleshy and usually brightly colored cover with the energy of others. Nurturing or being nurtured, sympathy, a yearning to settle down ments for checkups and preventative choices. You encourage the people around you and algae. of some seeds that develops from the ovule and a fondness for things that have stood the test of time are feelings that you express now. when you feel good about yourself, it shows through to others in positive ways. Breathing exer- 35. A choice or delicious dish. Planning for the next holiday activities or family gathering is in the final stage now and all is stalk and partially or entirely envelopes the cises bring you a better oxygen supply. 38. A city in northwestern Syria. seed. positive. 39. A doctor's degree in education. 25. American patriot who rode with Paul 43. A thin wedge of material (wood or metal Revere to warn that the British were advanc- or stone) for driving into crevices. ing on Lexington and Concord (1745-1799). Virgo (August 23-September 22) Pisces (February 19-March 20) 44. A person regarded as arrogant and annoy- 27. An honorary degree in science. ing. 29. Of people. You may feel that you have given enough notice as to how you feel about A friend in the workplace may often seek your advice. You are able to cut 46. (Zoroastrianism) Title for benevolent 32. An ancient Hebrew unit of dry measure certain things and now you are really beginning to become peeved. People keep making the through the red tape and get at what is beneath and behind a problem. This may be a good deities. equal to about a bushel. same mistakes. Perhaps you really did not make yourself clear. Take a deep breath and think time to help this person to learn his or her own problem-solving techniques and to become 49. American prizefighter who won the world more confident. You are a good teacher and this process should be a lot easier than con- 33. A short speech (often in verse) addressed back through previous conversations. This time, make your comments in writing—you will see heavyweight championship three times (born better results. This is a perfect time for new ideas and taking the novel approach. Your keen stantly being distracted from your own work. You are all heart . . . You will be pleased to see in 1942). directly to the audience by an actor at the end business sense is never sharper than when you are working with or for others—a group, cor- others become independent. Children, animals and all creative work get top billing this 50. Forbidden to profane use especially in of a play. poration, etc. Your actions receive support from those around you today. You are highly moti- afternoon and you may find yourself sitting with family or a friend’s child. Have a goodie South Pacific islands. 34. A clergyman. vated when it comes to relationships. There is an opportunity to enjoy a social affair with your bag ready that is age appropriate with some surprise for each child tucked inside and you will have a happy time with the visit. 51. A heavy odorless colorless gas formed dur- 36. (Philippine) A dish of marinated vegeta- loved one this evening. ing respiration and by the decomposition of bles and meat or fish. organic substances. 37. God of death. 52. (Welsh) The farmer god. 40. Small European freshwater fish with a slen- Word Search Yesterday’s Solution 55. A short pithy instructive saying. der bluish-green body. 58. (Scottish) Bluish-black or gray-blue. 41. A ductile malleable reddish-brown corro- 59. A brittle gray crystalline element that is a sion-resistant diamagnetic metallic element. semiconducting metalloid (resembling sili- 42. A metrical unit with unstressed-stressed con) used in transistors. syllables. 60. (Akkadian) God of wisdom. 45. Genus of East Indian trees or shrubs. 61. A rare silvery (usually trivalent) metallic 47. Scottish writer of rustic verse (1770-1835). element. 48. Among the largest bony fish. 62. (Babylonian) God of storms and wind. 53. A flat wing-shaped process or winglike 64. Preserve a dead body. part of an organism. 68. What you can repeat immediately after 54. A bluish shade of green. perceiving it. 56. (Jewish cookery) A loaf of white bread 71. Bottle that has a narrow neck. containing eggs and leavened with yeast. 74. The cry made by sheep. 57. The capital of Lesotho. 75. The literary intelligentsia. 63. (Irish) Chief god of the Tuatha De Danann. 78. Aircraft landing in bad weather in which 65. Type genus of the Majidae. the pilot is talked down by ground control 66. With no effort to conceal. using precision approach radar. 79. A slippery or viscous liquid or liquefiable 67. Tropical Asian starlings. substance not miscible with water. 69. (South African) A journey by ox wagon 80. Inability to urinate. (especially an organized migration by a group 81. A barrier constructed to contain the flow of settlers). or water or to keep out the sea. 70. A covering to disguise or conceal the face. 82. A coenzyme derived from the B vitamin 72. Someone who works (or provides workers) nicotinic acid. during a strike. 83. (Judaism) An eight-day Jewish holiday 73. God of love and erotic desire. commemorating the rededication of the 76. A large cask especially one holding a vol- Temple of Jerusalem. ume equivalent to 2 butts or 252 gals. 84. A loose sleeveless outer garment made 77. Brief episode in which the brain gets insuf- from aba cloth. ficient blood supply. Yesterday’s Solution

Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution THURSDAY, JULY 18 , 2013 information

For labor-related inquiries and complaints: Call MSAL hotline 128 Al-Madeena 22418714 Al-Shuhada 22545171 GOVERNORATE PHARMACY ADDRESS PHONE Al-Shuwaikh 24810598 Ahmadi Sama Safwan Fahaeel Makka St 23915883 Sabah Hospital 24812000 Abu Halaifa Abu Halaifa-Coastal Rd 23715414 Al-Nuzha 22545171 Danat Al-Sultan Mahboula Block 1, Coastal Rd 23726558 Amiri Hospital 22450005 Sabhan 24742838 Maternity Hospital 24843100 Jahra Modern Jahra Jahra-Block 3 Lot 1 24575518 Madina Munawara Jahra-Block 92 24566622 Al-Helaly 22434853 Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital 25312700 Capital Ahlam Fahad Al-Salem St 22436184 Al-Faiha 22545051 Chest Hospital 24849400 Khaldiya Coop Khaldiya Coop 24833967

Farwaniya Hospital 24892010 Farwaniya New Shifa Farwaniya Block 40 24734000 Al-Farwaniya 24711433 Ferdous Coop Ferdous Coop 24881201 Adan Hospital 23940620 Modern Safwan Old Kheitan Block 11 24726638 Al-Sulaibikhat 24316983 Ibn Sina Hospital 24840300 Hawally Tariq Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St 25726265 Al-Fahaheel 23927002 Al-Razi Hospital 24846000 Hana Salmiya-Amman St 25647075 Ikhlas Hawally-Beirut St 22625999 Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh 24316983 Physiotherapy Hospital 24874330/9 Hawally & Rawdha Hawally & Rawdha Coop 22564549 Ghadeer Jabriya-Block 1A 25340559 Kindy Jabriya-Block 3B 25326554 Ahmadi 23980088 Ibn Al-Nafis Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St 25721264 Mishrif Coop Mishrif Coop 25380581 Al-Mangaf 23711183 Kaizen center 25716707 Salwa Coop Salwa Coop 25628241 Al-Shuaiba 23262845 Rawda 22517733

Adaliya 22517144 Al-Jahra 25610011 Khaldiya 24848075 Al-Salmiya 25616368 Kaifan 24849807 Shamiya 24848913 INTERNATIONAL Shuwaikh 24814507 CALLS Abdullah Salem 22549134

Nuzha 22526804 Afghanistan 0093 Iran 0098 Albania 00355 Iraq 00964 Industrial Shuwaikh 24814764 Algeria 00213 Ireland 00353 Qadsiya 22515088 Andorra 00376 Italy 0039 Angola 00244 Ivory Coast 00225 Dasmah 22532265 Anguilla 001264 Jamaica 001876 Antiga 001268 Japan 0081 Bneid Al-Gar 22531908 Argentina 0054 Jordan 00962 Shaab 22518752 Armenia 00374 Kazakhstan 007 Australia 0061 Kenya 00254 Qibla 22459381 Austria 0043 Kiribati 00686 Bahamas 001242 Kuwait 00965 Ayoun Al-Qibla 22451082 Bahrain 00973 Kyrgyzstan 00996 Mirqab 22456536 Bangladesh 00880 Laos 00856 Barbados 001246 Latvia 00371 Sharq 22465401 Belarus 00375 Lebanon 00961 Belgium 0032 Liberia 00231 Salmiya 25746401 Belize 00501 Libya 00218 Jabriya 25316254 Benin 00229 Lithuania 00370 Bermuda 001441 Luxembourg 00352 Maidan Hawally 25623444 Bhutan 00975 Macau 00853 Bolivia 00591 Macedonia 00389 Bayan 25388462 Bosnia 00387 Madagascar 00261 Mishref 25381200 Botswana 00267 Majorca 0034 Brazil 0055 Malawi 00265 W Hawally 22630786 Brunei 00673 Malaysia 0060 Bulgaria 00359 Maldives 00960 Sabah 24810221 Burkina 00226 Mali 00223 Jahra 24770319 Burundi 00257 Malta 00356 Cambodia 00855 Marshall Islands 00692 New Jahra 24575755 Cameroon 00237 Martinique 00596 Canada 001 Mauritania 00222 West Jahra 24772608 Cape Verde 00238 Mauritius 00230 South Jahra 24775066 Cayman Islands 001345 Mayotte 00269 Central African 00236 Mexico 0052 North Jahra 24775992 Chad 00235 Micronesia 00691 Chile 0056 Moldova 00373 North Jleeb 24311795 China 0086 Monaco 00377 Ardhiya 24884079 Colombia 0057 Mongolia 00976 Comoros 00269 Montserrat 001664 Firdous 24892674 Congo 00242 Morocco 00212 Cook Islands 00682 Mozambique 00258 Omariya 24719048 Costa Rica 00506 Myanmar (Burma) 0095 N Khaitan 24710044 Croatia 00385 Namibia 00264 Cuba 0053 Nepal 00977 Fintas 23900322 Cyprus 00357 Netherlands (Holland) Cyprus (Northern) 0090392 0031 Czech Republic 00420 Netherlands Antilles 00599 Denmark 0045 New Caledonia 00687 Diego Garcia 00246 New Zealand 0064 Djibouti 00253 Nicaragua 00505 PRIVATE CLINICS Dominica 001767 Nigar 00227 Dominican Republic 001809 Nigeria 00234 Ecuador 00593 Niue 00683 Egypt 0020 Norfolk Island 00672 El Salvador 00503 Northern Ireland (UK) Plastic Surgeons Paediatricians Ophthalmologists Endocrinologist England (UK) 0044 0044 Dr. Abidallah Al-Mansoor 25622444 Dr. Mohammad Al-Khalaf 22547272 Dr. Khaled Hamadi 25665898 Equatorial Guinea 00240 North Korea 00850 Dr. Abd Al-Naser Al-Othman 25339330 Dr. Samy Al-Rabeea 25752222 Dr. Abdal-Redha Lari 22617700 Dr. Abd Al-Aziz Al-Rashed 25340300 Eritrea 00291 Norway 0047 Dr. Masoma Habeeb 25321171 Dr. Abdel Quttainah 25625030/60 Dr. Zahra Qabazard 25710444 Dr. Ahmad Al-Ansari 25658888 Estonia 00372 Oman 00968 Dr. Mubarak Al-Ajmy 25739999 Ethiopia 00251 Pakistan 0092 Family Doctor Dr. Sohail Qamar 22621099 Dr. Mohsen Abel 25757700 Dr. Kamal Al-Shomr 25329924 Falkland Islands 00500 Palau 00680 Dr Divya Damodar 23729596/23729581 Dr. Snaa Maaroof 25713514 Faroe Islands 00298 Panama 00507 Dr Adnan Hasan Alwayl 25732223 Physiotherapists & VD Psychiatrists Dr. Pradip Gujare 23713100 Dr. Abdallah Al-Baghly 25732223 Fiji 00679 Papua New Guinea 00675 Dr. Zacharias Mathew 24334282 Dr. Deyaa Shehab 25722291 Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) Dr. Esam Al-Ansari 22635047 Finland 00358 Paraguay 00595 Dr. Ahmed Fouad Mouner 24555050 Ext 510 Dr Eisa M. Al-Balhan 22613623/0 (1) Ear, Nose and Throat (2) Plastic Surgeon Dr. Musaed Faraj Khamees 22666288 France 0033 Peru 0051 French Guiana 00594 Philippines 0063 Dr. Abdallah Al-Ali 25644660 Gynaecologists & Obstetricians Dr. Abdul Mohsin Jafar, Rheumatologists: French Polynesia 00689 Poland 0048 Dr. Abd Al-Hameed Al-Taweel 25646478 DrAdrian arbe 23729596/23729581 FRCS (Canada) 25655535 Gabon 00241 Portugal 00351 Dr. Sanad Al-Fathalah 25311996 Dentists Dr. Verginia s.Marin 2572-6666 ext 8321 Dr. Adel Al-Awadi 25330060 Gambia 00220 Puerto Rico 001787 Dr. Mohammad Al-Daaory 25731988 Dr. Fozeya Ali Al-Qatan 22655539 Dr Anil Thomas 3729596/3729581 Georgia 00995 Qatar 00974 Dr. Ismail Al-Fodary 22620166 Dr. Khaled Al-Jarallah 25722290 Dr. Majeda Khalefa Aliytami 25343406 Dr. Shamah Al-Matar 22641071/2 Germany 0049 Romania 0040 Dr. Mahmoud Al-Booz 25651426 Ghana 00233 Russian Federation 007 Dr. Ahmad Al-Khooly 25739272 Dr. Anesah Al-Rasheed 22562226 Internist, Chest & Heart General Practitioners Gibraltar 00350 Rwanda 00250 Dr. Salem soso 22618787 Dr. Abidallah Al-Amer 22561444 Dr. Mohamme Y Majidi 24555050 Ext 123 DR.Mohammes Akkad 24555050 Ext 210 Greece 0030 Saint Helena 00290 Dr. Faysal Al-Fozan 22619557 General Surgeons Dr. Yousef Al-Omar 24719312 Dr. Mohammad Zubaid Greenland 00299 Saint Kitts 001869 Dr. Abdallateef Al-Katrash 22525888 Dr. Tarek Al-Mikhazeem 23926920 Dr. Amer Zawaz Al-Amer 22610044 MB, ChB, FRCPC, PACC Grenada 001473 Saint Lucia 001758 Dr. Abidallah Al-Duweisan 25653755 Dr. Kathem Maarafi 25730465 Dr. Mohammad Yousef Basher 25327148 Assistant Professor Of Medicine Guadeloupe 00590 Saint Pierre 00508 Dr. Bader Al-Ansari 25620111 Guam 001671 Saint Vincent 001784 Dr. Abdallah Ahmad Eyadah 25655528 Internists, Chest & Heart Head, Division of Cardiology Dr. Nabeel Al-Ayoobi 24577781 Neurologists Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital Guatemala 00502 Samoa US 00684 Dr. Adnan Ebil 22639939 Guinea 00224 Samoa West 00685 Dr. Dina Abidallah Al-Refae 25333501 Dr. Sohal Najem Al-Shemeri 25633324 Consultant Cardiologist Dr. Mousa Khadada 22666300 Guyana 00592 San Marino 00378 Urologists Dr. Jasem Mola Hassan 25345875 Dr. Latefa Al-Duweisan 25728004 Dr. Farida Al-Habib 2611555-2622555 Haiti 00509 Sao Tone 00239 Dr. Ali Naser Al-Serfy 22641534 Gastrologists MD, PH.D, FACC Holland (Netherlands) 0031 Saudi Arabia 00966 Dr. Fawzi Taher Abul 22639955 Dr. Nadem Al-Ghabra 25355515 Dr. Sami Aman 22636464 Inaya German Medical Center Honduras 00504 Scotland (UK) 0044 Dr. Khaleel Abidallah Al-Awadi 22616660 Dr. Mobarak Aldoub 24726446 Dr. Mohammad Al-Shamaly 25322030 Te: 2575077 Hong Kong 00852 Senegal 00221 Dr. Adel Al-Hunayan FRCS (C) 25313120 Dr Nasser Behbehani 25654300/3 Dr. Foad Abidallah Al-Ali 22633135 Fax: 25723123 Hungary 0036 Seychelles 00284 Dr. Leons Joseph 66703427 Ibiza (Spain) 0034 Sierra Leone 00232 Soor Center Iceland 00354 Singapore 0065 Psychologists [email protected] Tel: 2290-1677 Kaizen center William Schuilenberg, RPC 2290-1677 India 0091 Slovakia 00421 /Psychotherapists www.soorcenter.com Zaina Al Zabin, M.Sc. 2290-1677 Fax: 2290 1688 25716707 Indian Ocean 00873 Slovenia 00386 Indonesia 0062 Solomon Islands 00677 lifestyle THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013

Gossip

orry, ladies, but Adam Levine is off the mar- singing series “The Voice.” The Grammy Award- ket. The Maroon 5 singer’s representative winning Maroon 5 last year released its fourth Sconfirmed Tuesday he’s engaged to model album, “Overexposed.” It features the hits Behati Prinsloo. Levine proposed to Prinsloo over “Payphone,” “One More Night,” “Daylight” and the weekend in Los Angeles. The couple started “Love Somebody.” People magazine first reported dating last year. The singer’s rep says the 34-year- the engagement. old Levine and the 24-year-old Prinsloo recently reunited. Prinsloo is from Namibia and models for Victoria’s Secret. Levine also is a judge on the NBC

mma Roberts was arrested and nose. The 26-year-old actor also had a bite released without charge after a mark on his body. ‘Celeste and Jesse Edomestic violence incident in Forever’ star Emma was taken into custody Montreal, Canada. The 22-year-old actress - but was released hours later as Evan who is Oscar-winner Julia Roberts’ niece - declined to press charges. A source close allegedly got into a physical altercation to the actress insists that both parties were with her ‘American Horror Story’ star to blame for the violent incident and they boyfriend, Evan Peters, that left him with a were both hitting each other. The insider bloody nose, and was taken into custody in claims that Emma did not bite Evan and the early hours of July 7. Local law enforce- that she was the only one arrested because ment sources told gossip website TMZ.com he had more obvious physical injuries. that the couple, who have been together for a year, were overheard fighting in their room and someone in their hotel called the police. The insider said that police officers immediately arrested Emma after arriving at the scene and witnessing Evan’s bloody

he 20-year-old singer believes the family home she grew up in, in Texas, America, is haunted by a little Tgirl, Emily, whom she befriended as an invisible play- mate when she was younger. She told BuzzFeed.com: “I go utya Keisha Siobhan [MKS] partied with ghost hunting. My house in Texas is so ridiculously haunt- Adam Lambert in Los Angeles.The pop ed. Not by a bad spirit, but a little girl. I think her name is group - which is comprised of the original Emily. I’ve had a medium come over and ghost hunters, M Sugababes lineup; Mutya Buena, Keisha Buchanan and they both told me the same name, Emily. “There were and Siobhan Donaghy - caught up with the new so many times that I saw her when I was growing up. I saw ‘Glee’ star while in the city to shoot the video for her in my closet one time. When I was three years old my their single ‘Flatline’ and he was full of praise for the mom caught me talking to something by myself. “She “smart, real ladies”. Adam wrote on Twitter: asked, ‘Who are you talking to?’ and I said, ‘My best friend “@MKSOfficial I love u all! Such down to earth, Emily.’ She’s playful.” Demi - who has a sense for spooky smart, real ladies!! What a pleasure! “Oh and since I goings on - has talked to a medium, someone who medi- was kickin it w the OG Sugababes @MKSOfficial ... I ates communication between spirits of the dead and other wanted to letchoo LamBrits know how obsessed I human beings, and the pair discuss supernatural occur- am with @Skins (sic).” The trio were equally happy to rences. She added: “I think I have a really strong connec- see Adam, and posted a picture on their Instagram tion to the afterlife. My mom’s friend is a medium, and page with the caption: “A perfect evening with the we’ve talked about things... Stuff will just happen. When I one and only adamlambert #MKSinLA (sic).” MKS walk into a room, I can tell if something has happened were spotted filming the video for their single there or not, or if a hotel is haunted.” ‘Flatline’ - which they wrote themselves - in various LA locations including Venice Beach on Tuesday. While Keisha previously admitted it was “weird” being back together with Siobhan and Mutya because she hadn’t seen them for so many years after the pair quit the Sugababes in 2001 and 2005 respectively, she has also called the reunion “amaz- ing”. She said: “For me personally, from the outside, I have never seen Mutya and Siobhan together since we were 15 or 16. To see them years on as grown women talking was just weird. It’s been weird adjusting to it. But it’s been amazing being back together, and writing together.”

iv Tyler’s relationship with her son is the most “healthy” she has ever had with a man. The 36-year-old actress - mother to hris Brown partied with friends he was involved in a hit-and-run inci- nine-year-old Milo with ex-husband Royston Langdon - enjoys after having his probation dent in May. Chris was spared jail, L the “solid” relationship she has with her child and learns a lot from Crevoked. The ‘Turn Up the but will have to answer the charges him. She said: “To have a son was huge for me, because it’s been Music’ star was a “class act” when par- in August. The 24-year-old singer was the most solid, healthy, consistent relationship I’ve ever had with a tying with Snoop Lion and a bevy of reportedly left so distraught he male in my whole life. “[Milo] just wants me to make him breakfast beauties until the early hours after couldn’t eat, so friends dragged him and walk him to school and read to him at night and help him with his court hearing on Monday. A to a party to forget his worries. A his homework - all the basic things any child would want. “He source told HollywoodLife.com: source said: “He looked bad, and no couldn’t give a rat’s ass about me being famous or a movie star or “They were laughing and enjoying one wants to see their people look- anything. I learn so much from him.” Liv was raised by her mother the sights of the tremendous ing like that, the next best thing to Bebe Buell and didn’t know who her father - Aerosmith singer amounts of bunnies and hot girls do was to go out and blow off some Steven Tyler - was until she was eight, and thinks her upbringing that were there, but Chris kept it like steam. “Life’s too short for him to be has made her a stronger woman with men “visitors” in her life. She a museum and looked but didn’t down and out, sitting at home mop- told Net-a-Porter’s digital magazine, The Edit: “I was raised by the touch.” The troubled star’s five year ing around, he might as well take his women in my life. That’s made me incredibly strong and resilient. probation was revoked by a judge by mind off that nonsense and go out I’ve always been able to support myself and my family on my own. request of Los Angeles County and have fun. That’s how Chris is - “Men are a bit of a mystery to me in a way. They are visitors. They District Attorney’s Office who believe he’ll be sick one day and feeling blue, visit my life. I am always surprised when there is one around.” but the next minute, he’ll pop up like nothing even happened. “He knows what he’s doing - he ain’t trying to hurt nobody. Everybody deals with their problems in different ways. “ Meanwhile, Chris’ on-off girlfriend Karrueche Tran was said to be sup- portive and wanted Chris to party. “If Karrueche was with him, she would have encouraged him to go out too, it just doesn’t make any sense for hank God, James Franco has found work. Franco will guest-star in a him to be home with everything two-episode arc of Fox’s “The Mindy Project,” beginning with the come- heavy on his mind.” Chris is alleged to Tdy’s Sept 17 season premiere. Franco, who stars in the big-screen apoc- have left the scene after smashing alyptic comedy “This Is the End,” will play Dr Paul Leotard, the charismatic into a woman’s Mercedes-Benz in and popular doctor who replaces Mindy at Shulman & Associates while she is May and while the victim has refused in Haiti on a volunteer mission. A former professional fashion model, Dr to press charges it is “required by Leotard radically altered his career goals after he accidentally walked off a law” that the judge revoke the star’s runway at fashion week and was saved by a pregnant woman. From that day probation. forward, he devoted himself to helping pregnant women and immediately applied to medical school. Franco’s arc will continue through the second episode of the upcoming second season. While the hyper-prolific Franco has become primarily known for his film work since the short-lived cult TV series “Freaks and Geeks,” which ended in 2000, the actor has occasionally dabbled in small-screen work since then, including a run on the popular soap opera “General Hospital.” lifestyle THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013

Gossip

ayn Malik flew between the US and the UK four times in five days to see his girlfriend. The 20-year-old singer is currently on the North American Zleg of One Direction’s ‘Take Me Home’ world tour and missing Perrie Edwards so much, he’s made numerous transatlantic flights to spend time with her. A source told The Sun newspaper: “Zayn has been missing Perrie as One Direction tour the US. At the end of last month he secretly flew from Boston to the UK to see her, then from the UK to New York two days later. The next day he returned from the Big Apple to London before having to head back to the States again.” Last month Zayn got a tattoo of Little Mix star Perrie’s face when the band were passing through Glen Burnie, Maryland, at the Tattooed Heart Studios. The singers have been together for just over a year and completely smitten with one another, despite cheating allegations against the boy band hunk rocking their romance earlier this year. Perrie has always stood by her man, and previously said: “Zayn is so lovely. You know things are good when you can’t wait to see the other person. It’s a sense of friendship. The main thing I looked for is if he’s fun to be around, if I can have a laugh with him. When it’s more of a friendship, it can blossom.” The couple celebrated their first anniversary in April with a trip to the Eiffel Tower, in Paris, France.

avid Beckham is starring in a new TV show for kids. The ex- soccer star is set to pass his sporting skills on to the next gen- Deration by fronting a new Saturday morning program aimed icole Scherzinger feels “lonely” after worth it. “If I’m not doing ‘X Factor’ I put at encouraging Britain’s youngsters to get into sport. He will teach a splitting with Lewis Hamilton. The myself in the studio. I also love good food, series of master classes alongside Olympic athlete Jessica Ennis-Hill N‘X Factor’ UK judge - who agreed so I’m getting to explore lots of different as part of new Sky Sports show ‘Game Changers’, which debuts on called time on her five-year on/off relation- restaurants here. I take my publicist and my August 17. David told The Sun newspaper: “It’s an ambition of mine ship with the Formula 1 racing driver earli- assistant as my dates, literally.” The to inspire more young people to take part in sport. I’m excited to be er this month because of their hectic work ‘Boomerang’ singer - who is based in the one of a great group of athletes contributing to Game Changers and schedules - admits she feels lost without US - is eager to find more permanent living working with Sky, who have the passion to make it happen.” The chil- her beau by her side and has been dining arrangements in the UK. She explained: dren’s program will be hosted by sprint star Darren Campbell and with her staff to keep herself occupied. “I’m going flat-hunting soon. I want to get a presenter Di Dougherty, with Paralympic wheelchair rugby captain Speaking to The Sun newspaper, she said: “I proper place. “Last time I had an apartment Steve Brown acting as a reporter. Surprise sporting guests will also don’t have anyone here, I don’t have my in a hotel and I want to get a place with be roped in to help the kids as well as being interviewed in front of a family, I don’t even have any friends here. windows.” live studio audience. David, 38 - who has sons Brooklyn, 14, Romeo, My publicist is my closest friend. It gets 10, Cruz, eight, and two-year-old daughter Harper with his wife lonely but I’m working all the time. “You Victoria - recently expressed his desire to move into coaching now he just make those sacrifices and they made has retired from playing the sport professionally. He said: “I’d love to me feel so at home last year. It is hard but coach my daughter. That’s the only management side I would take you always make those sacrifices and it’s up because I wouldn’t want anyone else telling her what to do!” ‘Game Changers’ will be available on Sky Sports, Sky 2 and Pick TV at 9am every Saturday.

el C is finding life as a single added: “When I fell pregnant, I made it mother “difficult”. The 39-year- my priority to eat healthily because I Mold singer-songwriter has been wanted to give her the nutrition that raising four-year-old daughter Scarlet she needed. It was liberating to relax alone since she split from Thomas Starr about my body.” last year, and says she is concerned rad Pitt and Angelina Jolie are to wed on a ship chartered about the effects her work have had on by the Queen. The couple were keen to marry at their her role as a parent. She told Closer BFrench estate Chateau Miraval later this summer, but magazine: “I find [motherhood] difficult. have changed their minds thanks to their son Maddox, 11, and I don’t think you ever get right and it’s are now looking to tie the knot aboard the Hebridean Princess just like a work in progress - especially cruise instead, which sails across the Scottish Isles. A source because of the way my work is.” Mel - told The Sun newspaper: “It was Maddox who came up with real name Melanie Chisholm - is starring the idea of the ship. He came across it after looking back at in the stage version of rock musical photos of the Carnell Estate in Ayrshire, where they stayed and ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ and said juggling all loved. “So now they’ve made enquiries into booking the her dedication to her lead role of Mary whole vessel. “It’s just what they’re after. It can hold up to 50 of Magdalene with Scalet’s needs takes its their friends and family and serve as a traditional, romantic set- toll. She added: “I just took Scarlet to ting-all totally private. “Or they could always sail to a secluded Australia for the Jesus Christ Superstar bay off the Orkney or Shetland islands and have the ceremony tour because I didn’t want to be without there. The source added: “The fact that Maddox found it makes her. But the tour and juggling it all with it more special.” The luxury ship has been used by the British Scarlet really took it out of me and I’ve Monarch on two occasions - in 2006 to celebrate her 80th been feeling run down.” The star birthday and again in 2010 for a family holiday - and could believes a combination of overworking force the pair - who have children Maddox, Pax, nine, Zahara, and not eating well led to her being eight, Shiloh, six, and four-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne - diagnosed with depression in 2000 and to fork out around £300,000 to have the ceremony on board. has cultivated a different approach to Ken Charleson, chief operating officer of the ship’s owners, eating since becoming a mum. She Hebridean Island Cruises, said: “We have a very confidential relationship with a number of high-profile guests. “I can’t con- firm whether they have been making enquiries or not. “But of course, they are more than welcome.”

elena Gomez is planning to move out of her parents’ house. The 20- it’s probably time for me to get my own house.” The ‘Come & Get It’ hitmak- year-old singer, whose mother Mandy Cornett gave birth to her second er also confessed that she has a 10-year plan but is aware that she may not Schild, Gracie, with Selena’s stepfather Brian Teefey, last month, has be as popular in a few years. She said: “I do, but you just never know how decided she is ready to spread her wings and buy her own place in Los it’s gonna execute. I have goals-personally and in my professional career, Angeles. The ‘Spring Breakers’ actress revealed on the upcoming E! Special too-but what’s in today could be gone tomorrow, so you might not see ‘Ryan Seacrest with Selena Gomez’: “Yeah, you know I think it’s time. I didn’t me in five years.” The brunette beauty, who has an on/off relationship ever wanna be forceful to saying, ‘OK, I’ve made enough to get my own house with Justin Bieber, 19, hopes to have a huge family in the future. She and OK, let’s blow it off and do whatever.’ I just love being with my family and said: “That’s when everything will probably slow down. I mean, I’m I love knowing that they’re there. Latin, so... I don’t know, obviously when that time comes I’ll But yeah, I think decide, but of course I like having a big family.” lifestyle THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013 Music & Movies

Iron Man Robert Downey Jr leads Forbes highest-paid actors obert Downey Jr has been named the world’s highest paid came third on the list, bringing home $55 million after a success- 2 - Channing Tatum actor. The 48-year-old actor earned an estimated $75 mil- ful year, just ahead of Mark Wahlberg, 42, who earned $52 mil- 3 - Hugh Jackman Rlion from June 2012 to June 2013, according to Forbes lion. Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson rounded out the top five with 4 - Mark Wahlberg magazine’s annual list of highest paid actors. Most of the ‘Iron $46 million from his roles in ‘Fast & Furious 6’ and ‘G.I. Joe: 5 - Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson Man 3’ star’s earnings came from starring in ‘The Avengers’, as his Retaliation’, which were both huge hits at the box office. Others 6 - Leonardo DiCaprio contract saw him receive a percentage of the film’s total earnings in the top 10 included Leonardo DiCaprio, Adam Sandler, Tom 7 - Adam Sandler at the box office. The movie is the third highest-grossing film of Cruise, Denzel Washington and Liam Neeson. In compiling the 8 - Tom Cruise all time and earned $1.5 billion worldwide. Robert beat off stiff list, Forbes considers factors including upfront pay, profit partici- 9 - Denzel Washington competition from Channing Tatum, 33, who made $60 million. pation, residuals, endorsements and advertising work. 10 - Liam Neeson — Reuters Most of the actor’s profits came from his role in ‘Magic Mike’, Forbes’ top 10 highest earning actors from June 2012 to June which he and director Steven Soderbergh independently 2013: financed and produced. ‘Les Miserables’ star Hugh Jackman 1 - Robert Downey Jr

hythm and blues singer Stevie cities. Prosecutors said Zimmerman, who Wonder said he will not perform in is white and Hispanic, wrongly suspected ay-Z’s new album has sold more than “Magna Carta” has the second-best first- RFlorida until the state discards a Martin of being a criminal because he 500,000 units its first week. Nielsen week debut of the year after Justin “stand your ground” law that played a was black. Defense lawyers argued JSoundScan said late Tuesday that prelimi- Timberlake’s “20/20 Experience.” The album prominent role in the defense of neigh- Zimmerman shot Martin in self-defense. nary data shows that “Magna Carta Holy Grail” features Timberlake, Beyonce, Frank Ocean borhood watchman George Zimmerman The Florida law, which was approved in moved about 527,000 copies. It will debut at and Timbaland. Jay-Z’s 12th album had more who was acquitted in a racially charged 2005 and has been copied in some form No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart this week. than 14 million streams in its first week on murder trial. The black Rock and Roll Hall by about 30 other states, allows people The album was officially released on July 7. Spotify, beating a record that Daft Punk set in of Fame enshrinee made his comments fearing for their lives to use deadly force Samsung bought and gave 1.2 million copies May with “Random Access Memories.” — AP at a concert on Sunday in Quebec City, without having to retreat from confronta- of the album to Galaxy mobile phone users Canada, according to a video posted on tion, even if it is possible. File photo shows Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter smiles after a news on July 4. Billboard is not counting those sales YouTube. “For the gift that God has given “For wherever I find that law exists, I conference at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in on its charts. me, and for whatever I mean, I decided will not perform in that state or in that Philadelphia. — AP today that until the ‘stand your ground’ part of the world,” Wonder added. law is abolished in Florida, I will never Wonder, 63, has no future concert dates perform there again,” Wonder said to listed on his website. He is expected to applause. perform at the Global Citizen Festival in He did not mention the Zimmerman New York’s Central Park in September. trial by name in the video-clip posted Representatives for the “Superstition” online. A jury acquitted Zimmerman, 29, singer did not immediately return mes- on Saturday of second-degree murder sages seeking comment. — Reuters and manslaughter in the 2012 shooting death of unarmed 17-year-old Trayvon een pop star Cody Simpson may exude doesn’t know what prompted him to book his Martin in Sanford, Florida. The verdict the laid-back, surfer dude attitude asso- domain name but he knew he would need it touched off demonstrations in major US Tciated with his native Australia, but some day. Simpson remembers telling his grand- behind the mellow exterior lies a business mother when he about 7 that he would be really brain. At age 10, he had the wherewithal to successful at something when he got older, but Stevie Wonder ask his mother to book the domain name he didn’t know yet what it would be. CodySimpson.com. Three years later he signed “I thought it would be swimming, then some- a record deal. The 16-year-old blonde pop star thing else and then the music thing came with an estimated net worth of $4.5 million about,” he said. With a huge female teen fan has already toured with Justin Bieber, is head- base, more than 4.8 million Twitter followers and lining his own North American tour and 146 million YouTube views, comparisons to releases his second album, “Surfers Paradise,” Bieber are inevitable. on Tuesday. While touring with Bieber earlier this year and He co-wrote all of the songs on the album in 2012 Simpson said he learned a lot from the which returns to his roots on the Gold Coast of Canadian singer, whom he described as a “great Queensland. “I wanted to really stay as true to mate.” But musically they are taking different myself as possible and incorporate some influ- paths, which he said is evident on the new ence from back home,” Simpson said about the album. Simpson, who relocated to Los Angeles album during a break from his tour. “The with his family to pursue his career, has spent sound and the whole vibe of the album share much of the past year on the road. Next up is a a piece of me and my lifestyle,” he added. In tour in his native Australia and an autobiography, “Pretty Brown Eyes,” the first single from the “Welcome to Paradise: My Journey,” which will be album, the tall, lanky teen heartthrob gives his published by HarperCollins in October. He said own take on brown-eyed girls. Another track, he is taking his success one step at a time. “I do “Imma Be Cool,” features rapper Asher and Cody Simpson like the steady growth I’ve had over the past cou- Ziggy Marley, who performs also on the song ple of years. And I definitely would rather grow “Love.” on YouTube and MySpace, Simpson said he was- into an artist that can exist as an adult rather “It’s definitely a classic summer album. There n’t always sure he was destined for a singing than blow it all out,” he said. — Reuters are a few reggae songs. There is a lot of acoustic career. guitar, some ukulele,” said Simpson, who is man- The son of swimming champions in Australia, aged by Scooter Braun, whose clients include Simpson said he once wanted to follow in the Bieber, Carly Rae Jepsen and The Wanted. footsteps of Olympic swimming sensation Despite his early success after being discovered Michael Phelps - until music took over. He

ory Monteith, the 31-year-old heartthrob of Fox with a drug overdose,” Vancouver Police Department ‘Glee’ was breakthrough “Glee,” which is set in the small town of Lima, Ohio, was Television’s musical-comedy series “Glee,” died of an spokesman Brian Montague said at news conference, The actor, who was born in Calgary, Alberta, and grew Monteith’s breakthrough. It is centered on a high school Capparently accidental overdose of heroin and alco- adding that the department’s findings supported the up in Victoria, British Columbia, told Parade magazine in glee club. Popular for its song and dance routines and big- hol, Canadian authorities said on Tuesday. The British Coroners Service report. Montague said police had ruled 2011 that he had a serious drug problem during his name guest stars, the show has won Golden Globe, Emmy Columbia Coroners Service said in a release that post- out foul play. He would not say what evidence they found teenage years for which he received treatment. Monteith is and Peabody awards. Monteith’s death is a major blow to a mortem testing on the star, who was found dead on in the actor’s hotel room. the latest young entertainment star to have died from show that promotes a positive message, and his character, Saturday in a downtown Vancouver hotel room, died of Representatives for the actor’s girlfriend, Lea Michele, drugs or alcohol. British soul singer Amy Winehouse died in high school athlete Finn Hudson, who grew to defend the “mixed-drug toxicity involving heroin and alcohol.” It said who played Monteith’s on-screen love interest in “Glee,” 2011 from accidental alcohol poisoning at the age of 27. school’s misfits, played an integral part in advancing the Monteith’s death was unlikely to have been intentional. issued a statement on Tuesday thanking fans for their sup- Other notable recent drug-related deaths in Hollywood series’ theme of tolerance. The fifth season of “Glee” is “There is absolutely nothing at this point, no evidence port. “Since Cory’s passing, Lea has been grieving along- include Oscar-winning Australian actor Heath Ledger, who expected to premiere on Sept 19 on US broadcaster Fox, to suggest this is anything but the most sad and tragic side his family and making appropriate arrangements with died in 2008 from an accidental overdose of prescription which is owned by Twenty-First Century Fox Inc. — Reuters accident,” said Barb McLintock, a spokeswoman for the them,” Michele’s representatives said in a statement. “They drugs at age 28, and former child star Brad Renfro, who Coroners Service. Monteith was found dead shortly after are supporting each other as they endure this profound died from an accidental heroin overdose a week before noon on Saturday in his room at the Fairmont Pacific Rim loss together.” Monteith was public about his struggles Ledger at age 25. Monteith began his career in a number of hotel. Vancouver police said they believed he was alone in with substance abuse. In April, he completed voluntary small roles leading up to a recurring part between 2006 the room after returning to the hotel early on Saturday treatment for unspecified substance addiction at a rehab and 2007 in the ABC Family science-fiction drama “Kyle XY” morning. facility. He had also been treated in a facility at age 19. and another role around the same time on the MTV series “There was evidence in the room that was consistent “Kaya.”

Vancouver Police Cnst Brian Montague answers questions about the death of Canadian actor Cory Monteith during a news conference in File photo shows actor Cory Monteith at the 2012 Do Something awards in Santa Vancouver. — AP photos Monica, Calif. lifestyle THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013

Features

very wild card may shuffle the Emmy race this year an easy repeat for two reasons: First, she’s excellent as McCarthy for “Mike & Molly” or Edie Falco for “Nurse Emmy to Alec Baldwin, either, but the “30 Rock” star does - Netflix’s “House of Cards,” to be precise. The big the unabashedly self-centered title character. And sec- Jackie.” deserve another nomination for staying ruthlessly funny Amystery leading into Thursday’s nominees is ond, voters will ding Dunham for being naked a lot when Will win: Julia Louis-Dreyfus to the end. Always endearing “Big Bang Theory” star Jim whether Emmy voters will welcome Netflix, the stream- she arguably doesn’t need to be and for her character’s Should win: Julia Louis-Dreyfus or Laura Dern Parsons has won twice already. Don Cheadle will proba- ing service that hopes to buy into the nominations game carefully crafted annoyingness. bly be nominated again for Showtime’s “House of Lies,” with the year’s new drama, “House of Cards,” and the They may also capriciously and unfairly decide that at Outstanding lead actor in a comedy series but this doesn’t feel like his year to win. That leaves return of “Arrested Development.” Will TV industry profes- 26, the whip-smart writer-director-actress has plenty The academy has a great opportunity here to look room for at least one more nominee. It wouldn’t be a sionals lavish nominations on an online service that more time to win things. Laura Dern, on HBO’s brilliant bold while being a little late. It’s time to recognize Louis shock for Johnny Galecki, Parson’s co-star, to return to could cost them their jobs? We have no idea. But the and painful comedy/drama “Enlightened,” gave perhaps CK as an actor. Actually, the time was last year or the year the running, given that their show is still surging in pop- Emmys do at least acknowledge “House of Cards” exists. the best performance by any actress in the past year. before, but that’s OK. The comedian and his brilliant FX ularity. One of its stars, Kate Mara, will announce the nomina- Personally, I’d vote for her in a heartbeat. But I don’t series, “Louie,” were still new and unfamiliar to viewers Will win: Louis CK tions alongside “Breaking Bad” Emmy winner Aaron Paul. think Emmy voters will even think to nominate her, given then. Now he has reached the media saturation point, Should win: I think my feelings are pretty clear. Will she get to read any nominations for her own series? We’ll see. In the meantime, here are our guesses about Outstanding drama series the nominees in the main categories. Along with “House of Cards,” FX’s “The Americans” also scored with critics and is very much in contention, and Outstanding comedy series Sundance’s “Rectify” has earned lots of buzz for its short ABC’s hit “Modern Family” has won for three consecu- first season. There’s plenty of room for surprises in this tive years. No one would bat an eye if it won again. But category. Last year’s winner, “Homeland,” was perceived Emmy voters, who typically are creatures of habit, may by many critics to suffer a sophomore slump. If Emmy feel obliged to pick something else for the sake of vari- voters agree, that could throw open the race. The ety. “Girls” always kept viewers guessing in its second “Homeland” win broke a four-year streak for AMC’s “Mad season, taking almost as many risks as FX’s “Louie.” It is a Men,” which roared back this season with one of its fiercely intelligent and challenging show, but it’s only strongest years ever. occasionally laugh-out-loud funny. “Veep,” meanwhile, It’s absurd; meanwhile, that “Breaking Bad” has never has just crackled. Not a word of dialog is wasted. “30 won. But the first half of its final season, which aired in Rock” will probably score another nomination, but not a the eligibility period, felt too much like a setup for the win, for its final season. The show as a whole was one of fireworks to come. I’d nominate it in a second, but don’t the best ever, but it refused to go soft with its goodbye know if Emmy voters will. Perpetual nominee “Downton season. The admirable lack of sentimentality will cost it. Abbey” will likely be back after a particularly eventful “The Office” may also get a nod, simply because its latest season. And HBO’s “Game of Thrones” and “Boardwalk season was its last one. Empire” deserve to return as well. FX’s Soviet spy drama “The Big Bang Theory” will probably get another nod “The Americans” keeps getting better, but it may have for delivering inoffensive comedy and being the most too much action and not enough weeping for Emmy vot- popular sitcom on TV. The big question, again, is ers’ tastes. whether the Academy might recognize Netflix’s long- “The Walking Dead” provided some of the most grip- delayed fourth season of “Arrested Development,” which ping, scream-at-your-screen moments of the year, but was released in one chunk, just before the Emmy dead- Emmy voters can’t seem to get past the gore and zom- line. bies. So if “House of Cards” or other new shows join the Nominating “Arrested” would be a huge step: The TV category, what will they bump? Perhaps - I know this industry would be essentially bringing its online compe- sounds crazy - “Breaking Bad.” The same voters adventur- tition into the fold, and Emmy voters could celebrate a ous enough to vote for the meth drama may also be will- great show that never quite got the audience or awards ing to give Netflix its due- while making plans to recog- it deserved during its run on Fox. On the other hand, nize “Breaking Bad” next year, finally, for its final some critics and “Arrested” fans were disappointed by episodes. the Netflix episodes. that she wasn’t nominated last year, and her show has and voters may be ready to recognize his - not using this Will win: “Downton Abbey,” which might have the Will win: “Modern Family.” It ain’t broke. been canceled. word lightly - genius. He won in two writing categories votes to get a companion piece to the Miniseries or Should win: For now, I’m saying “Veep.” But I’m writing (By the way, yes, the three best women in the catego- last year (good job, Emmys), but CK the performer has to Movie Emmy it won before having to switch categories. this right before getting to see all those “Arrested” ry are all on HBO. We didn’t plan it this way, but HBO sell the bits he writes, and some of them are extraordi- Should win: The gorgeous, understated “Boardwalk episodes. probably did.) So who else will round out the category? narily difficult. Empire,” which TheWrap picked as the best show of 2012. Amy Poehler deserves another nod for her to-be-trea- As for the other contenders: Not many people pre- It’s not as flashy as its competition, but is much richer. Outstanding lead actress in a comedy series sured turn on “Parks and Recreation.” Past winner Tina dicted Jon Cryer’s win last year for “Two and a Half Men,” —Reuters This category is overfilled with deserving nominees, Fey should be nominated again for the final season of which was essentially an acknowledgement that he kept because historic moment alert - most of the best come- “30 Rock.” Zooey Deschanel may be back for being so the show steady after Charlie Sheen’s exit and Ashton dies on television are led by women. The race is between “adorkable” on “New Girl,” but I’d rather see Mindy Kaling Kutcher’s addition. He’s unlikely to repeat - and may not Julia Louis-Dreyfus, last year’s winner for “Veep,” and Lena score a nod for “The Mindy Project.” And we wouldn’t be even get another nod. Dunham for “Girls.” But Louis-Dreyfus will probably get at all surprised to see the return of past winners Melissa Emmy voters are under no pressure to give another

This undated image released by JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa shows the Jack Rabbit pool at the JW Marriott This undated image released by The JW Marriott Desert Ridge shows the golf course at the Wildfire Golf Club in Phoenix, Camelback Inn Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Ariz. — AP photos Ariz.

inter turns the Valley of the Sun into a destination, lur- in reach.” Potential visitors unfamiliar with Arizona may be con- finding ways to cool off and avoid the hottest part of the day. any ill guests, make sure they have the best time when they’re ing visitors from colder climates around the world to cerned about the recent spate of fires. Those aren’t an issue in the Most of the resorts in the area have spectacular pools - the here,” Allor said. As long as they can handle the heat, it’s hard not Wthe warmth of the desert. Once the searing heat of Valley; the Yarnell fire that killed 19 firefighters is 85 miles (about Hyatt at Gainey Ranch has 10 pools and a 30-foot (9-meter) water to have a good time, especially at these prices. Here’s a few of the summer hits, the tourists tend to stay away and even the locals 237 kilometers) northwest of Phoenix and most of the resorts slide - so cooling off is usually not a problem. Anyone wanting to deals available at Phoenix-area resorts this summer: look to escape, heading off to the mountains of Flagstaff or here are far away from the mountains where lightning-strike play golf or any outside activity that doesn’t involve the water Westin Kierland Resort and Spa in Scottsdale has summer beaches of Southern California. But here’s a little secret for you blazes usually spark. should do it early, before things heat up. Dining or 5 pm happy rates of $139 that include a $30 daily credit for the resort’s value-conscious travelers out there: Summer is the best time to The heat is another story. The running joke about the desert is hours, those are better indoors than outside on the patio. And FlowRider wave machine. Available Memorial Day through Labor get deals in the desert. Rooms up to 70 percent off, deals on spa that it’s a dry heat, but when the mercury soars over 110 degrees drinking plenty of water is always vital in the desert. Day. The Hotel Palomar, located in downtown Phoenix’s and golf packages, resort and dining credits - all at the same luxu- Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius), it doesn’t matter how dry the air “People usually know that the rates are discounted for a rea- CityScape shopping and entertainment hub, is offering “Laugh ry resorts with same stellar service others pay hundreds of dollars is - it’s uncomfortable. The key to summer trips in the Valley is son and we make sure we keep folks hydrated and don’t have Like a Local,” with two tickets to Stand Up Live from $129. There’s more for during the high season. If you can stand the heat, or at also the “Downtown Discovery Family Package” where guests get least find a way to avoid it, the bargain-basement price for high- two children’s tickets to the Children’s Museum of Phoenix or end leisure is more than worth it. Arizona Science Center, along with two welcome packs for kids, “The services don’t change, it’s the same resort, the same starting from $124. Available through Sept 3. great location whether it’s March or July,” said Shane Allor, direc- The Marriott Courtyard Phoenix has a “Baseball Fan Package” tor of sales and marketing at JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & for Arizona Diamondbacks fans. It includes room, breakfast for Spa in Scottsdale, a suburb of Phoenix. “From a value standpoint, two adults and children under 12, a baseball souvenir and com- you’re experiencing the same staff, the same very high service plementary hotel parking. Baseball tickets are not included. Valid levels in the summer that you would get during the peak season through Sept 30. when folks are paying $500-600 a night for those same packages.” The JW Marriott Desert Ridge in north Phoenix offers the Just 20 years ago, many Phoenix-area resorts shut down for the “Family Fling & Swing,” which included unlimited free golf, free summer because of the heat. That changed when resort opera- meals for kids 12 and under with paying adult, no resort fee, daily tors realized they could get people to still come out by lowering $50 resort credit, complimentary appetizer or dessert with an the prices - a lot. From around the start of June into September, entree, free parking, in-room Wi-Fi and free access to the Family rates at resorts drop precipitously, starting around $109 up to Escape Center. Starting at $149 and good through Sept 5. about $199 at the higher-end places. The Hermosa Inn in Paradise Valley offers a summer package And included in those rates are a variety of amenities: a round started at $169 a night that includes a $25 food and beverage of golf, an hour massage, $100 credit toward dining or shopping, credit, a free room upgrade, daily cabana rental, afternoon snack and activities for kids and adults. Many of the guests who go to and two welcome drinks. Through Sept 2. the Valley’s resorts during the summer are locals looking for a The Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa in Phoenix has a short getaway, but more out-of-towners have headed to the “Guilt-Free Getaway” with a half-day of edu-tainment at the desert in recent years to take advantage of the hi-end pampering Sheraton Adventure Club for kids starting at $99. Through Sept 8. at low-end prices. The Carefree Resort and Conference Center is commemorat- It’s also a great time for meeting planners to take advantage ing its 50th anniversary by offering “Fifty days for $50,” which of low rates, booking meetings at luxury resorts they might not offers a room rate of $50 a night through Sept 6. — AP have been able to afford during the winter season. “So much of it is these wonderfully affordable rates,” said Ann Lane, senior direc- tor of advertising and public relations at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch. “Sometimes people will be here on meetings and they go home and rave about it, This undated publicity image released by Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa, children play at the pool of the Hyatt and say ‘hey, let’s try it.’ And they can do it with rates that are with- Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Ariz. ‘Iron Man’ Robert Downey Jr leads Forbes’ highest-paid38 actors THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2013

Indian Muslim girls recite the Holy Quran in their class room during the holy month of Ramadan at Madrasatur-Rashaad religious school in Hyderabad yesterday. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar during which Muslims are encouraged to pray and read the Quran during Islam’s holiest month. — AFP Photos

rocheting these days is so much more than granny Virginia. mates that 14.7 million Americans crochet, 89 percent of medium is superior. Eckman, who does both, sees each craft’s squares and chunky Afghan blankets. It’s leaner and New yarns have helped. Appealing blends that include them women. The traditional and ubiquitous granny square charms. Crochet, she says, is faster, more versatile and more Ctrendier than it was in the 1960s and ‘70s, when the bamboo, silk or alpaca, for example, allow for thinner, softer remains popular, but has been re-envisioned. “People are forgiving. Knitting uses two or more needles to create two craft was known for its bulky, acrylic yarns. Crochet’s enduring yarn. As a result, crocheted pieces can drape more attractively, using it in the same old ways but in new colors and in smaller basic stitches - the knit and the purl - which are combined to popularity is due partly to today’s wide array of high-quality, which is why clothing designers are using more crochet in yarns,” says Eckman. create hundreds of stitch patterns. Crochet, with its one hook luxurious yarns - many at affordable prices. their work, says Alexander. The Craft & Hobby Association esti- Crocheters and knitters have long argued about which and basic stitches, is able to conjure up thousands of stitch Crochet can be found on high-fashion runways and in patterns. And because there’s only one “live” stitch in crochet, upscale home dÈcor. Textile artists such as Kaffe Fassett use it. crocheters can change a pattern on the fly more easily than But it also can just be fun: Mischievous “yarn bombers” deco- knitters can, and without fear of dropping a stitch. rate urban landscapes - street signs, trees, even bicycles and “Crochet allows you to be relaxed about things,” says cars - in crochet. It’s never been easier to learn how to wield a Eckman. “Knitting requires more structure and forethought.” crochet hook, thanks to an assortment of books, magazines To learn crochet, Alexander recommends starting with an and online tutorials, the latter of which often are free. online tutorial so you can watch another person’s hands. “To me it’s like painting with stitches,” says Teresa Annie’s, the crafts retailer, which publishes Crochet! and Richardson, 50, of Savannah, Georgia, who shares free pat- Crochet World magazines, posts a free stitch guide online. terns and video tutorials at her blog, Crochet Geek, begun in Richardson’s basic stitch tutorials include instructions for left- 2006. “It’s being able to put out an interpretation of some- handed crocheters. She gently recommends that new cro- thing artistic and creative.” Her YouTube video tutorials aver- cheters practice the basic stitches - a chain, single crochet, half age 75,000 daily views, according to YouTube Analytics. Some double crochet and double crochet - before moving on to viewers request particular patterns, which challenges more advanced projects. “The key is to keep practicing until Richardson and keeps her working 12-hour days; she recently you experience those ah-ha moments” when it all makes completed requests to crochet a manatee, an octopus and a sense, Richardson wrote recently on her blog. sheep.Carol Alexander, of Berne, Indiana, has been crocheting For inspiration and free patterns, also visit Ravelry, an since the early 1980s, when she made a toy for her then- online community for crocheters and knitters. And crochet unborn son. A crochet-pattern designer for more than 20 isn’t limited to yarn. Jewelry makers crochet with thin wire years, she’s the executive crochet editor for Crochet! and (often incorporating beads). “It’s so far beyond what we were Crochet World magazines. Respectful of the craft’s past, doing in the ‘80s and ‘90s,” says Alexander. Another current use Alexander champions what crochet has become: classier, cre- of crochet: The Crochet Coral Reef Project, started in 2005, ative and commonplace. travels to art and science museums worldwide to bring atten- “Crochet has always been the ‘redheaded stepsister’ (to tion to the plight of delicate living reefs. See the work of 25 knitting) but not anymore,” says Alexander. “It’s really out there crochet artists in “25 More Crochet Artists to Inspire You,” post- and setting the standards.” Edie Eckman, co-author of the new ed at the blog Crochet Concupiscence.—AP “Crochet One-Skein Wonders” (Storey Publishing), agrees that crochet has become more fashionable. “It’s OK to be seen cro- cheting publicly now,” muses Eckman, of Waynesboro,

A series of skullcaps crocheted by textile artist Kaffe Fassett for a recent show in London. — AP photos This handout photo provided by Edie Eckman shows a crochet using the ubiquitous granny squares, which remain popular.