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SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 RAJAB 9, 1434 AH www.kuwaittimes.net 1,258 traffic Pope, Merkel Bomb explodes Serena extends violators talk about a near 3 embassies winning streak to deported ‘strong’ Europe in Tripoli reach Rome final in one month2 7 13 18 US blasts Moscow Max 40º Min 25º High Tide over Syria weapons 06:59 & 17:45 Low Tide 12:22 40 PAGES NO: 15813 150 FILS Peace plans hit by diplomatic rifts

BEIRUT: The United States chided Russia for sending missiles to the Syrian government as plans for a peace conference promoted by Washington and Moscow were hit by diplomatic rifts over its scope and purpose. Sectarian bloodshed in neighboring, a hacking attack on a Western newspaper by sympathizers of Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad and defiant comments by a rebel commander filmed eating a slain soldier’s flesh were all reminders of how the two-year-old civil war is metastasizing. But the divisions among world powers that have pre- vented a coordinated resolution were also again on dis- play, just 10 days after Russia and the United States agreed to bury differences and push for an urgent inter- national conference to end the war. The most senior US military officer, General Martin Dempsey, described Russia’s recent delivery of anti-ship missiles to Assad as “ill-timed and very unfortunate” and risked prolonging a war which has already killed more than 80,000 Syrians and which the UN said had driven 1.5 million abroad. While not responding directly to US assertions that it had sent Yakhont missiles, a spokesman for President Vladimir Putin said Russia would honor contracts to supply Syria, which has been a customer for Moscow’s weaponry since the Cold War. “It’s at the very least an unfortunate decision that will embolden the regime and prolong the suffering,” Dempsey, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters. With a range of 300 km, the Yakhont could prove a threat to warships in the Mediterranean, should, for example, Western powers abandon their deep reserve and intervene to offer air support to the rebels, as they did in Libya two years ago. No date has yet been agreed for the international meeting, which appears to face growing obstacles. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met Putin in Russia on Friday and said the conference should take place as soon as possible. But highlighting the diplomatic conundrum it poses, France spelled out explicitly on Friday that it would oppose any meeting if Assad’s regional ally Iran were invited - contrary to the Russian position that Tehran FAIRFIELD: Emergency workers arrive at the scene of a train collision in Fairfield, Conn. Two Metro North commuter trains serving New York City collided dur- should be part of a solution. The rebels and key Arab ing Friday’s evening rush hour, sending 60 people to the hospital, including five with critical injuries. — AP (See Page 10) and Western backers will meet in Amman on Continued on Page 13 North Korea fires 3 missiles

SEOUL: North Korea yesterday launched three short- KN-02 surface-to-surface missile derived from the Soviet moved from their launch site. range missiles into the Sea of Japan, apparently as part era SS-21 that has a range of about 120 kilometers,” a Musudan missiles have an estimated range of 2,500 of a military drill, South Korea’s defense ministry said. US Seoul official told Yonhap news agency. Seoul criticized to 4,000 kilometers, enough to reach South Korea and and South Korean forces had been on heightened alert the launches, calling them “serious” provocations. “The Japan and potentially US military bases on the Pacific for a medium-range ballistic missile test in recent weeks international community will levy much tougher sanc- island of Guam. US and South Korean officials had been amid tensions triggered by North Korea’s nuclear test in tions against North Korea for its continued absurd worried that any test of the medium-range missiles February. provocation,” Min Hyun-Joo, spokeswoman of the ruling would trigger a fresh surge in tensions, which escalated “North Korea launched two guided missiles in the Saenuri Party, was quoted as saying by Yonhap. after the North carried out a nuclear test in February. morning and another one in the afternoon,” a defense “No compensations or benefits will be allowed if UN sanctions imposed after the test triggered a cycle ministry spokesman said. “The missiles landed in the North Korea fails to show changes in its policy toward of escalating military tensions on the Korean peninsula East Sea (Sea of Japan),” he said. South Korea was main- the right direction,” she added. The launches followed a that are only now beginning to subside. An aide to the taining intense surveillance of the North and keeping a joint South Korea-US naval exercise this week, slammed Japanese prime minister returned home from a contro- high-level of readiness to deal with any risky develop- by North Korea as a “wanton” provocation and rehearsal versial trip to North Korea yesterday, fuelling speculation ANKARA: Riot police detain a demonstrator as they ments, he added. North Korea sometimes launches for war. A US defense official said last week that two that Pyongyang may be trying to thaw icy relations with clash with demonstrators in Ankara yesterday. Public short-range missiles for tests or as part of military drills. North Korean Musudan medium-range missiles that had Japan. At the height of the tensions, Pyongyang threat- outrage over two car bombs that killed 51 people and “A more detailed analysis will be needed but the mis- been primed for firing as tensions flared in the run-up to ened pre-emptive nuclear strikes on the United States wounded over 100 near the border with Syria contin- siles launched may be a modified anti-ship missile or the the North’s national celebrations on April 15 had been and South Korea. — AFP ues a week after the bloody incident. — AP Cybersecurity experts Google’s wearable Glass fear the ‘unknowns’ WASHINGTON: Cybersecurity profes- League’s championship game, wit- gadget: Cool or creepy? sionals know a myriad of ways hackers nessed by tens of millions of viewers. can try to wreak havoc on critical infra- The outage was blamed on an electrical structure or infiltrate corporations to relay device not a cyber attack. “The SAN FRANCISCO: Google staged four discussions steal or spy, but it is the fear of the known unknown is what I worry about,” expounding on the finer points of its “Glass” wearable unknown that some say keeps them up US Secretary of Homeland Security computer during this week’s developer conference. at night. US security officials and pri- Janet Napolitano told the Summit. Missing from the agenda, however, was a session on eti- vate sector experts wonder what kinds “For example, we don’t have the quette when using the recording-capable gadget, of time-bombs can be - or have been - identity of all the adversaries who are which some attendees faithfully wore everywhere - embedded by malware into computer trying to either commit crimes or acts including to the crowded bathrooms. networks, just waiting to explode. over the cyber networks. The things we Google Glass, a cross between a mobile computer Cyber espionage is already “the know about, we can deal with. It’s the and eyeglasses that can both record video and surf the greatest transfer of wealth in history,” known unknown,” she added. The mili- Internet, is now available to a select few but is already National Security Agency Director Keith tary is a big target, something that Rear among the year’s most buzz-worthy new gadgets. The Alexander, the top US general in charge Admiral William Leigher, who is in device has geeks all aflutter but is unnerving everyone of cybersecurity said in Washington this charge of “information dominance” from lawmakers to casino operators worried about the week. “Disruptive and destructive with the US Navy, takes on board. “Our potential for hitherto unimagined privacy and policy attacks on our country will get worse,” networks see thousands of intrusion violations. he said. “Mark my words, it will get attempts every day...staying up with “I had a friend and we’re sitting at dinner and about worse.” Stealing software or money - the threat, making sure that our defen- 30 minutes into it she said, ‘You know those things freak like the $45 million lifted from two sive systems are up to par is probably me out,’” said Allen Firstenberg, a technology consultant Middle Eastern banks in a daring global one of the things that gets most of my at the Google developers conference. He has been plot revealed this month - might pale attention,” Leigher said. wearing Glass for about a week but offered to take next to an attack that could, for exam- To be sure, the United States has not them off for the comfort of his dinner companion. On ple, switch off the lights in a major US suffered the kind of destructive cyber another occasion, Firstenberg admitted to walking into city. attack that damaged some 30,000 com- a bathroom wearing his Glass without realizing it. “Most That was the fear in New Orleans in puters at Saudi Arabia’s oil company, of the day I totally forget it’s there,” he said. Many believe wearable computers represent the February when a power outage struck Saudi Aramco, last year. CALIFORNIA: An attendee tries Google Glass during the Google I/O developer next big shift in technology, just as smartphones the Super Bowl, the National Football Continued on Page 13 conference in San Francisco, California. — AFP Continued on Page 13 SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 LOCAL 1,258 traffic violators deported in a month 1,005 vehicles taken to scrap yard: Official KUWAIT: Kuwait deported more than 1,200 foreigners since the government launched crackdowns against serious traffic violations a month ago, a local newspaper reported yesterday quoting a senior Interior Ministry official. In the meantime, Undersecretary Assistant for Traffic Affairs Major General Abdulfattah Al-Ali insisted that ‘administrative deportation’ penalties were only handed out to expatriates whose records showed repeated ‘grave’ traffic violations. This was as per the directions issued by First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Hmoud Al-Sabah. In a detailed statement to Al-Anba newspaper published yesterday, Maj Gen Al-Ali said that 1,258 expatriates were deported in the four weeks since the General Traffic Department launched its operations. Maj Gen Al-Ali told the same newspaper late last month that more than 200 people were deported in the first two to three days of the campaign. “[Minister Al-Sabah] gave instructions under which a deci- sion to deport an expatriate driver was not made unless the record showed that he has committed similar multiple viola- Major General Abdulfattah Al-Ali tions as the one he was arrested for,” Maj Gen Al-Ali said, fur- ther explaining that all deportation decisions were taken in case of drivers “with up to four repeated violations.” The violations which the traffic department classified as ‘grave’ included driving without a license, jumping the red traffic light, carrying passengers illegally and breaking the speed limit by 40 kilometers per hour. Maj Gen Al-Ali further revealed that among the thousands of vehicles impounded during the ongoing crackdowns, 1005 were taken to the scrap to be destroyed. “These vehicles were of 1985 model or earlier, and failed the validity tests, thus becoming unfit for driving in Kuwait,” the senior official said, adding that such cars are usually used for reckless driving, drifting and other activities that involve performing dangerous stunts. Meanwhile, Maj Gen Al-Ali revealed that several forged dri- ver’s licenses were discovered during the campaigns, and added that legal action will be taken against those having such licenses “and those who issued them.” In this regard, he urged anyone who obtained a driver’s license illegally to either “destroy it” or “hand it over to the General Traffic Department in which case he or she will be reconsidered as a witness instead of partner in the crime.” 275 held in Capital, Farwaniya raids According to a report published last month, there are at least 1.6 million registered vehicles in Kuwait; a country in KUWAIT: A total of 275 people were arrested during The arrests came during a campaign carried out in Simultaneously, another operation carried out at which foreigners are required to meet certain conditions to crackdowns in Al-Farwaniya and Capital governorates Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh when 135 people were arrested, the Mubarakiya Market and the Fahad Al-Salem street obtain a driver’s license which include a university degree, a on Friday, targeting illegal residents, fugitives and including 47 for violating residency laws, 15 with netted 140 people, including 25 violators of residen- minimum of KD400 monthly pay and being a resident in lawbreakers, the Interior Ministry announced yester- expired visas, two people who were earlier reported cy law, as well as four fugitives including a man want- Kuwait for at least two years. Kuwait is home to around 2.6 day. missing and 37 who failed to produce identifications. ed on rape charges. million expatriates who make up nearly two thirds of the state’s total population of 3.8 million, according to official sta- tistics. In the meantime, Maj Gen Al-Ali refuted allegations speculating that the recent crackdowns were targeting expa- triates, indicating that appropriate legal procedures were tak- en against hundreds of Kuwaitis during the campaigns. These speculations were mostly based on the govern- ment’s announced plans to tackle the country’s demographic imbalance, a claim that has been refuted by state officials. Last March, Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Thekra Al-Rashidi announced a plan to deport 100,000 foreigners annually as part of the Gulf state’s efforts to restore the demographic bal- ance. Details of the plan, by which the government looks to deport a million foreigners in ten years, are yet to be revealed, but Al-Rashidi had later hinted that individuals to be targeted were chiefly going to be ‘marginal labor forces’ or workers who usually accept menial labor and often live without valid visas. This plan, along with the traffic department’s mass deporta- tions, have garnered wide criticism from unionists and right groups in Kuwait and abroad who called upon the govern- ment to instead cancel the sponsorship system as being the ‘best solution’ to address demographic imbalance. Last month, the parliament passed a draft law to establish KUWAIT: Officers training school at National Guard carried out an exercise at Al-Zaqla area in order to strengthen the tactical ability of the officers during battles. the Labor Public Authority, a state body to be tasked with han- Commander of National Guard Schools Brig Nader Sheehan Hujail said that the exercise was held under real battle situation to measure officers’ ability to find solutions dling foreigners’ employment duties and providing the legal to problems in battlefields under hostile weather conditions and in rough terrains. He said the exercise helped the officers totter be communicate with each other and framework to eventually replace the sponsorship system. enable them to use wireless equipments in more professional manner. He said the participants showed advanced levels of knowledge after the exercise. Under this law, the authority will directly supervise the labor force in the private and oil sectors, including the process of visa issuance and transfer. A report published by Al-Qabas yesterday listed details of Kuwait, Jordanian lawmakers discuss cooperation the authority’s establishment law, which specified that “the AMMAN: The Kuwait-Jordan Parliamentary Hamad Harshani lauded the deeply-rooted The Kuwait MP handed the Jordanian ation with Kuwait National Assembly. authority alone can recruit expatriate labor forces in the pri- Friendship Committee held talks here yester- relations between Kuwait and the Parliament Speaker Srour a letter from He spoke highly about Kuwaiti investors vate and oil sector as per the employer’s request.” day with Jordanian Parliament Speaker Saad Hashemite Kingdom, thanks to the roles of Kuwait National Assembly Speaker Ali Fahad and investments in Jordan, stressing that The sponsorship or ‘kafala’ system is said to contain loop- Hayel Srour over strengthening bilateral ties, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- Al-Rashed including an invitation to visit they have an important role in promoting holes often exploited by visa traffickers to release work per- particularly in the parliamentary domain. Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and Jordanian Kuwait. economic development and attracting for- mits in the name of fake companies or nonexistent job open- The meeting, also attended by Kuwaiti King Abdullah II. For his part, Srour expressed great appre- eign investors to Jordan. ings and then sell these to unskilled labor forces looking for a Ambassador to Jordan Dr. Hamad Al-Duaij, “Kuwaiti-Jordanian relations are flourish- ciation of the State of Kuwait political and In addition to Harshani, the Kuwaiti dele- chance to work in the oil-rich Gulf region. also touched upon several key issues of com- ing and growing steadily to serve the higher economic support to Jordan. He also voiced gation comprises MPs Dr. Mishari Al-Husseini —Al-Anba & Al-Qabas mon concern. During the meeting, MP interests of the two nations,” Harshani said. eagerness to develop parliamentary cooper- and Essam Al-Dabbous. —KUNA

NBK sponsors Kuwait Architectural Student Association

KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) spon- sors Kuwait Architecture Student Association (KASA) established by the students of the Department of Architecture, College of Architecture, Kuwait University. KASA organized yes- terday its annual exhibi- tion that showcases the graduating work of the students of the Department of Architecture for the years 2011 -2013. The NBK Public Relations Manager design of NBK’s new Abdul Mohsen Al-Rushaid Headquarters Project as well takes part in this exhibition. “NBK’s sponsorship and support to KASA comes in line with the bank’s customary and ongoing spirit of cor- porate citizenship as well as the vital role it plays in sup- porting all students, youths and educational initiatives,” said NBK Public Relations Manager, Abdul Mohsen Al- Rushaid. Al-Rushaid added “NBK has always considered supporting youth an essential part of its social and philan- thropic outreach which comes in line with the bank’s com- mitment to encourage a merit-based educational system that promotes the best and the brightest the country has to offer and rewards students for their hard work and excellence.” NBK Annually promotes a range of philan- thropic missions and social welfare programs as part of the humanitarian dimensions of its corporate social responsi- bility. KASA helps in advancing the interests of architectur- al students vocationally, academically, socially and cultural- ly. It aims at presenting a clear view of architects activities through providing lection, seminars, meeting and visiting different projects or participating in exhibitions, circulars, magazines and conventions. SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 LOCAL MoH bans sleeve Gastrectomy ‘Doctors not adhering to global standards’

By Nawara Fattahova valid for both the public and private sector hospi- cializations and this is not correct. I personally pressure and we have to understand his opinion have stopped taking the pills I was taking and I tals and medical centers. This decree was criti- know some of these surgeons,” he told the Kuwait if he sees benefit for the patients in this decree. am happy with the results,” she pointed out. KUWAIT: The Ministry of Health recently issued a cized by surgeons. Dr. Mousa Khorsid, President Times yesterday. Also, one of the reasons is using equipment not According to her, honesty depends on the ministerial decree stopping the sleeve gastrecto- of the Kuwait Surgeons Union described the The weight criterion is another subject dealt approved by the Food and Drug Association doctor. “Our surgeon only does the surgeries if it my surgeries and other weight-loss surgeries till a decree as unstudied and unjustified, and said this with in the planned law. “Many surgeons, and (FDA), which is useless,” he concluded. is extremely necessary for the patient. The deci- new law governing such medical procedures was may harm Kuwait’s reputation in this field as the especially those working in the private sector, On her part, Awatif, a nurse working in one of sion is based on medical and health grounds formulated in the next three months at the maxi- experts here may appear as non-professional or only care about money. They even agree to do the private hospitals and also a patient who only. For those, who are just lazy or do not meet mum. untrustworthy. Dr. Ahmad Al-Murad, Consultant obesity related surgeries for patients who do not underwent sleeve gastrectomy surgery, defends certain weight requirement, he refuses to do it. Although no serious incidents happened as a at the Amiri Hospital, felt that these surgeries meet the weight condition followed internation- the importance of this surgery. “Many people He first tries other options of losing weight such result of these surgeries, yet according to the were very important for the patients and should ally. So they are below the level that is set world- have benefit from these surgeries and I am an as diet, practicing sports and others,” noted Minister of Health, many doctors were not not stop. Instead strict laws should be put in wide. The new law will define the weight criteria example. I was suffering from hypertension, dia- Awatif. “If they stopped these surgeries perma- respecting the international standards and rules place to regulate these. “One of the main points is to be followed,” added Dr. Al-Murad. Political pres- betes and back pain. I was totally against the obe- nently or for a long time, then I think the patients in performing these surgeries. The decree will the surgeon’s qualifications and specialization. sure on the Minister of Health was behind issuing sity related surgeries and thought these were will seek out doctors outside Kuwait and that will become applicable starting June 1, 2013 and will Many doctors doing obesity related surgeries are the ministry decree. “Most doctors realize the cosmetic in nature, but after the doctor advised be wrong, as the patient needs follow-up checks cover the sleeve gastrectomy, lap-band, gastric general surgeons or have specialized in other importance of these surgeries and are against the me to undergo these, I live completely differently and tests that may last six to seven months after bypass, and other weight-loss surgeries. It will be fields such as nerves, liver, cancer or other spe- decree stopping these, but the minister is under and have a healthier life now. I am 50 now and the surgery,” she concluded. Minister vows to continue oil sector reorganization Fallout from K-Dow ignominy

KUWAIT: Oil Minister Hani Husain vowed to tenures of six other officials including payment of the fine. continue government’s policies aimed at Petrochemical Industries Company CEO Maha The Kuwaiti government had called off the improving the administrative structure in the oil Husain. deal to establish what was to be known as K- sector “to make it capable of living up to the But it seemed that the government’s steps Dow Petrochemicals under pressure from the current and future challenges,” and counseled in could do little to defuse tensions which started opposition in the parliament, prompting Dow a recent statement for ‘patience’ as far as the between the executive and legislative authori- Chemical to sue for damages as per a penalty fallout of the Dow Chemical compensation row ties after Dow Chemical announced more than clause in the contract. The American-based was concerned. a week ago that they received $2.2 billion from company won last year an international court “The K-Dow issue is currently being looked at Kuwait in compensation for canceling a joint order stipulating that the PIC, a wholly owned by the Public Prosecution, and we have to wait venture’s deal in late 2008. subsidiary of KPC, pays a $2.16 billion fine for KUWAIT: Undersecretary of National Guard General Nasser Abdullah Al-Day received for the court to make its ruling,” Minister Husain Three MPs had filed to grill the oil minister canceling the contract to establish the $7.4 bil- the Undersecretary of Ministry of Awqaf Dr Adel Al-Faleh and the accompanying del- told Al-Jarida newspaper on Friday. last week over the Dow payment, and have lion joint venture project. egation in a visit aimed at the growth of Kuwaiti youths through coordination and The government took a decision on Thursday since refused calls to put their plans on hold to In the meantime, a leading oppositionist cooperation and exchange of experience between the two parties. to launch a new investigation into the decision allow for the government’s probe to go undermined the government’s recent steps and to cancel the partnership deal with Dow through. “The interpellation is due as [lawmak- alleged that the decisions were “the newest Chemical. The decision also involved suspend- ers] look to identify the key people responsible chapter in the drama that Kuwait is living ing a number of senior oil sector officials indefi- for approving the K-Dow deal, allowing the through.” Online publishing law soon nitely. Unnamed oil ministry insiders quoted by penalty clause to be activated and paying the “There are efforts to close the file about the Al-Jarida indicated in the meantime that the heavy fine,” said MP Nasser Al-Merri who filed fine completely as part of preparations for new KUWAIT: Kuwait plans to introduce a new that ‘the Information Ministry is set to start recent changes were part of minister Husain’s the grilling motion along with MPs Yaqoub Al- political development,” former MP Musallam Al- law to control online publishing and social preparing its articles in the upcoming few efforts to “protect the oil sector from profiteer- Sane’a and Saadoun Al-Otaibi. Barrak told Al-Rai newspaper. He further networks. The new law would be separate days.’ ing allegations” as Kuwait plans to spend nearly He made this statement at a press confer- explained that the new probe ordered by the from the audiovisual law which pertains to The insider expected that the new law KD80 billion on oil industries in the coming few ence last week in which they demanded that government “is likely going to end up with the newspapers and television broadcasting, a would be better received compared to its years. minister Husain either take the podium for Public Prosecution shelving the case, thus clos- local newspaper reported yesterday quot- predecessor ‘since it introduces regulations The recent changes saw longtime Kuwait debate or resign. ing the issue.” Former minister Mohammad Al- ing sources with knowledge of the subject. only for areas previously unregulated’ such Petroleum Corporation official Nezar Al-Adasani Al-Merri’s statements were quoted in an Al- Olaim, who was responsible for the oil portfolio Such a step would probably replace the as news websites and social networking appointed as CEO of the state-owned firm, as Qabas report which also quoted MP Nawaf Al- in the cabinet that signed the K-Dow deal, said controversial audiovisual and online pub- websites. well as the Supreme Petroleum Council mem- Fuzai who said that steps to refer the oil sector during an interview with Al-Rai TV on Thursday lishing draft law which the government put Last month, the cabinet approved a bers being replaced. Meanwhile, CEO and officials for questioning regarding their involve- that he was in favor of demands calling for on hold last month, soon after introducing draft legislation which proposed a ten- Managing Director of the Kuwait Oil Company ment in the K-Dow deal “are insufficient”. He referring all members of that cabinet, himself it as it elicited widespread criticism both year jail term for religion related offences Sami Al-Rushaid announced his retirement in hinted that Minister of Cabinet Affairs Sheikh included, to the Court of Ministers for investiga- within and outside Kuwait. and a fine of over $1 million for offending accordance with a Cabinet decision to refer offi- Mohammad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah could also be tions. Al-Olaim had resigned from the cabinet The sources who spoke to Al-Rai on the the ruler. It was later put on hold by the cials with at least 35 years of experience to grilled on allegations that a committee he shortly before the deal was canceled. - Al-Jarida, condition of anonymity did not provide prime minister to allow further consulta- retirement. The move officially ended the chaired to probe the issue was responsible for Al-Qabas & Al-Rai details of the planned law, but explained tion. — Al-Rai SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 LOCAL

Letter to Badrya kuwait digest How to improve The fine is work skills not the main problem [email protected] By Abdullatif Al-Duaij Good day Ms Badrya, Upon reading your article about the state of affairs he government has finally joined the demagogic regarding air conditioners’ duct cleaning and how it voices that express frustration over the loss of $2.2 can be improved, I have a few points to share. Tbillion in fines to Dow Chemical. I made the above Over here in my country, we attend training courses statement because people continue to talk about the to equip ourselves with the necessary knowledge, skills fine instead of the project itself, and about the and attitude to meet the challenges at any workplace. announced payment instead of it became due. It is through teamwork spirit, over a certain period of The fine was not paid without a reason. It was paid as time, that you will be able to see evidence of gradual compensation to the US-based company that sought improvement. With our small population, the time tak- damages for a cancelled partnership contract. This means en for information to flow both ways between the peo- that had the project been implemented in line with the ple and the policy makers is rather less. The amount of recommendations of the technical experts concerned, investment put into improving the communication Kuwait would not have needed to pay anything. I am not network and the related infrastructure needs time and trying to justify the contract clause that mandated such a resources. Only time can tell the outcome. If one huge penalty; my question is, why are people focusing remains patient, things would happen in the way you on the terms of the contract and not on the reason of its may like them to. Initially, when any technology is new, cancellation? Everyone, including the government, is unfortunately there will be plenty of adjustment. People need time involved in the process of misleading and falsification of for it to work. Any whistle blowing mechanisms can facts. The main problem is neither the penalty clause nor only aggravate matters. I do hope you agree on this in the decision to cancel the deal, despite the latter being issue. kuwait digest the main reason why the fine was paid. The problem is Over to you now for more good news to come. not in the K-Dow deal either. It is a lot bigger than that. It Regards, is wrong to assume that paying the fine or holding cer- Ricky Deportation not an answer tain parties accountable is going to end the problem. The main problem is in the unjustified exaggeration relating to the monitoring of development projects. It is in the commercial competition, which created a lot of hatred In my view By Ahmad Al-Sarraf and fighting for a stake in development projects. Yes, we need to put mechanisms in place to protect public funds. t appears that some people within the govern- Therefore it is neither humane nor logical to leave However, such protection mechanisms should be moni- Time for law to ment believe that they can earn their supervisors’ expatriates wondering and fearful about their fate tored so they do not transform into tools that hinder Iappreciation by showing a rather excessive sense and the fate of their children should they commit a development or resolve trade-related disputes - as is take its course of law enforcement, especially against expatriates. traffic violation which could happen unintentionally. happening today. They behave as if making foreigners feel that they are Instead, the state is supposed to enforce hefty fine The penalty clause could have been discussed earlier constantly pursued will bring down the crime rate which will sure that traffic violators learn their lesson. with Dow Chemical in order for the company to accept a and will be in the public’s best interest. The main problem is not in the number of foreign- reduced value. Such a move may or may not have These people ignore many incidents in which it ers living in Kuwait or the violations they commit, but helped, but the penalty clause in itself is not the main was discovered that a lawbreaking foreigner had in the corruption spreading in the sponsorship sys- problem anyway. The main issue is whether the K-Dow support from a Kuwaiti national. tem. I personally came close to exposing part of this project was feasible or not. If it was profitable and devel- By Abdallah Abbas Bwair In this context came the unfortunate announce- world when I offered KD2,000 to a person who opmental, as it seemed during the negotiations, then a ment of Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Thekra approached me for donations for a mosque project $2 billion penalty clause is not the error, but the cancela- Al-Rashidi about a plan to deport one hundred thou- in Pakistan, but on the condition that he give me the tion order is. — Al-Qabas sand expatriates every year. She should have known name of his employer or the one who helped him better, being a lawyer by profession, that the plan is come to Kuwait. Of course he declined my offer, likely impractical, at least from an administrative stand- because he knew that his loss will be bigger than kuwait digest [email protected] point. This is not to mention the injustice involved. that amount I offered if he was to expose a trade Instead, Al-Rashidi should have announced a plan to secret of the game in the labor market. send at least a hundred Kuwaiti visa traffickers every It is no secret that people with influence benefit Inspired by eeing the massive security presence in public year to jail. It is a shame that these criminals have from licenses they have for inactive companies, or in these days makes us feel more safe and been committing crimes for so long that we have some cases for a 20x20 meters office to obtain hun- dreams, haunted secure; a feeling we have been missing for a ended up with a huge demographic imbalance prob- dreds if not thousands of visas illegally. In the mean- S lem today. time, a measure forcing companies to deposit work- long time ever since the Iraqi Invasion of Kuwait to by illusions This brings me to the Interior Ministry’s decision to ers’ salaried in banks proved to be a failure as the be specific. The security presence is hopefully deport any expatriate driver who was to commit a money deposited could easily be withdrawn the fol- going to expose many lawbreakers, including fugi- grave violation. A decision which forces a person to lowing day. Indiscriminately deporting laborers is By Nabila Al-Anjari tives wanted for civil or criminal cases, as well as lose his job and other obligations while risking the going to create many problems and lead to an marginal labor forces with expired visas who bring stability of entire families is not only inhuman, but increase in wages. If you take the job of workers who eople had dreamt many a dream based on promis- more harm to Kuwait than good. also extremely stupid, given the serious repercus- load and unload containers at the port, you can find es made by the government in recent years, only to In the meantime, we are seeing the traffic police sions that it leaves in its wake. Expatriate residents, or that most of them are employed by sponsors who are Pwake up to the shocking reality that all those sugar- unusually proactive after Major General at least most of them, came to Kuwait to work and not working in the ports business. Can you imagine coated statements made by the state officials were noth- Abdulfattah Al-Ali was promoted as undersecretary earn a decent living. The employers too wanted the the real crisis that will happen if these workers were ing but empty promises. The strange part is that we hard- same and hence opened the doors for them. to be deported? — Al-Qabas ly ever learn any lesson and as keep falling for the same assistant in the Ministry of Interior. I would like to trick over and over again. Since the beginning of modern congratulate Kuwait for having this senior official in tourism in the 1970s, we have been hearing about plans the government, given his sincere efforts to to turn Kuwait into a ‘touristic hub’ of the region. enforce the law regardless of positions and kuwait digest This dream seemed to be turning into a reality with favoritism, and keeping Kuwait’s interest as a top the establishment of the Touristic Enterprises Company, priority. the construction of the Kuwait Towers, and the Kuwait New cooperative law and justice National Museum, the Sadu House, as well as a number of public and leisure parks. But the government felt that it has achieved its goals with these projects, and subse- The security presence is hope- quently failed to come up with strategies necessary to fully going to expose many law- By Dr Shamlan Al-Essa achieve the desired touristic and economic payoff. breakers, including fugitives Instead of going forward with developing the tourism sector, the government simply went into a deep slumber. ome people are seriously trying to thwart all they have the responsibility of supervision and legis- wanted for civil or criminal cases, Today, even as the finals exams in schools and col- as well as marginal labor forces attempts being made by the National lating into law what is in the interest of the country. leges are around the corner, the main focus of most peo- SAssembly and the government to usher in true Their decision to change the voting system did not ple is travel preparation. Conversations about bookings, with expired visas who bring reforms. There are some individuals and political come out of nothing; rather it came as a result of ticket prices, touristic destinations and other travel-relat- more harm to Kuwait than good. groups who have no idea of how to respect ‘law’. cooperatives’ misuse of citizens’ money. This money ed issues have become a main topic of discussions in Among these is the cooperative societies’ union. was being squandered in corruption, influence ped- dewaniyas and other public gatherings, as well as in the We accept and appreciate the cooperatives’ deci- dling and appeasing various tribes. Such aberrations media. It is not a secret that the Kuwaiti people have become known for their love of travel; something that Kuwait’s traffic sector is not a new field for Maj sion to reject the decision of the National Assembly’s had become widespread. Also, political Islam groups Gen Al-Ali; nor is his attitude towards law enforce- has become synonymous with the summer season in health committee approving the new cooperative were using societies’ funds, be it the Muslim Kuwait. Travel has also become common among expatri- ment. Before his recent appointment as General law. The cooperatives’ opposition to the law owes Brotherhood, the Salaf movement or others who Director of the Traffic Department, Maj Gen Al-Ali ates, who travel in different seasons as per the communi- itself to their rejection of the one vote system in the found in societies an opportunity to become famous ty they belong to. For example, most Indian nationals worked for years in the same department as well as cooperative elections. They had also rejected the and have “cousins” benefit at the expense of people’s who make up for a 750,000 strong community in Kuwait, in the General Security Department. He was credit- committee’s proposal for a candidate being a mem- money. prefer to travel during the winter due to the heavy rains ed for a successful stint as director of the Ahmadi ber of the society and having a university certificate. The main goal behind the establishment of coop- and bad weather conditions during the summer in their Security Department where his efforts resulted in The opponents wondered erative societies in the 1960s home country. Meanwhile, members of the Egyptian impounding of thousands of vehicles used by reck- community who make up for at least 600,000 people - a about the incongruity of a was to serve the area’s peo- majority of whom work in the public sector - prefer to less drivers. As director of Al-Farwaniya Security system in which the candi- The health committee at the ple by providing them with Department, he had launched crackdowns that escape Kuwait’s summer and spend it at home. Year after date for the National food and consumer items at year, this trend has turned Kuwait into what seems to be resulted in arrest of hundreds of fugitives and law- National Assembly is formed of Assembly is expected only to MPs who are elected by the peo- a reasonable price. This a ‘work camp’ in which everyone looks for the best oppor- breakers. be able to read and write brings in the interest of the tunity to ‘escape’ from it. During his tenure as the head of the Farwaniya while the candidate of the ple and they have the responsi- shareholders who purchase In the meantime, Kuwait loses billions of dinars every Security Department, Maj Gen Al-Ali successfully cooperative management is bility of supervision and legislat- and consume these goods. year as thousands of vacationers crowd ports and borders faced off unlicensed demonstrations when some every summer. According to official statistics, Kuwaitis’ expected to be a university ing into law what is in the interest Coops used to rake in an travel spending has increased by 37 percent in the last protestors put Kuwait’s stability at risk. His transfer graduate. annual profit reaching 10 to to the traffic department is surely going to boost of the country. Their decision to two years. The spending rate has seen a gradual increase We accept, as we said, the 12 percent, but now it is just since 2009 when it reached KD1.7 billion. It reached the efforts there and improve the quality of work. cooperatives’ right to express change the voting system did not four percent plus? Why? KD1.8 billion, KD2.3 billion and KD2.5 billion in 2010, He will help find solutions to many pending prob- their opposition to the issue come out of nothing; rather it Because, corruption, 2011 and 2012, respectively. There is no doubt that travel- lems including traffic jams and reckless driving. and raise the matter through came as a result of cooperatives’ influence, theft and the ing has a lot of advantages, especially after a long period His efforts to enforce the law, including sending the media. They are free to political Islam groups using of dealing with work pressure, but we should also not teams of officers in civilian clothes to detect traffic misuse of citizens’ money. ignore the security, cultural and economic risks that resort to legal means to pres- cooperatives to attract the Kuwaitis face while traveling to countries with different violations, have received much appreciation in surize the decision makers youth through religious lec- Kuwait, further proving that he is the right man in customs and cultures. and force MPs to change their view, but to threaten tures is widespread. Are the cooperatives expected Several economies in countries worldwide rely heavily, the right place. We hope to see more officials like to resort to sit-ins and shutting down cooperative to run night schools and collect donations for chari- if not completely, on tourism, which is something we see Maj Gen Al-Ali in the state departments so that societies is something we reject. This is illegal and ty or Jihad activities in Syria, Iraq or any other area of some countries in the region are heavily investing into, Kuwait can once again become an oasis for safety cannot be accepted by any sane person by any the world? unlike us. For example, Dubai has transformed into a and security, and the land of peace. stretch of logic. The decision of the health committee of the favorite destination for businessmen and investors who enjoy services and regulations provided by the govern- Cooperative societies are not the private property National Assembly was a correct one as it was aimed ment, and continues to do so even more to achieve more of the cooperatives union. They are elected by the at reviewing all those establishments where corrup- development. Most recently, Dubai’s ruler Sheikh people to run the society honestly and honorably. tion is rampant. The cooperative societies topped Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced Dubai’s Cooperatives’ members are elected by the general that list. Finally, we find the government’s silence on tourism development vision for 2020, as per which he assembly and they are the people who own a stake the issue of cooperatives’ union issuing such said, Dubai will be ready to receive “20 million tourists in the society in every area. There are thousands of provocative statements as shutting down these facil- and earn 300 million Dirhams every year.” share owners among the citizens. So, by what right ities rather strange. Improving tourism no longer remains a luxury; it has become an urgent requirement to diversify the state’s or authority can a society be closed without consult- Our question to the government officials is this: sources of income, attract foreign investors and take ing them or the social affairs and labor ministry (the are we in a state run as per law, or are things so steps forward towards turning Kuwait into an internation- government), which owns the lands and the facilities much out of control that everyone can take the law al commercial and financial hub. This can be achieved in the cooperative societies? into his own hands and declare that he will close the through a clear vision and serious efforts. So, can we final- The health committee at the National Assembly is cooperatives just because their tribal interests were ly make this dream become a reality, or are we going to formed of MPs who are elected by the people and being affected by a decision? — Al-Watan be forever haunted by an illusion? — Al-Qabas SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 LOCAL UN compensation approval Kuwaiti inmate dies KUWAIT: Kuwait is still waiting to was approved, out of which $29.8 billion receive from Iraq $11.2 billion in com- has been received so far by Kuwait, while pensation that was approved by the Iraq is yet to pay $11.2 billion. United Nations for the damages sus- The statistics quoted by Al-Qabas yes- in central prison tained by the Kuwaiti oil sector during terday indicated that Kuwait received all the 1990-91 Iraqi Invasion, a local daily compensations under the category of reported yesterday, quoting official state individuals, cases of injury and death, figures. and other demands exceeding $100,000. According to the compensation statis- The report further showed that out of Scores wounded in road accidents tics released by a state authority, Kuwait $114.1 billion that the Kuwaiti govern- had sought a total of $177.4 billion in ment had initially asked for, only $8.2 By Hanan Al-Saadoun year-old Egyptian woman. She was taken to Al-Adan A fire broke out in a vehicle at Al-Salam area opposite compensation. However, only $41 billion billion had been approved and received. Hospital. McDonald’s, causing second-degree burns to the right KUWAIT: A Kuwaiti inmate died in the central jail while A car accident at the Fifth Ring Road opposite Al- hand of a 44-year-old Indian expat, who was taken to another inmate was rushed to a hospital in a critical Omariya resulted in a fractured right knee for a 32- year- Mubarak Hospital. state, security sources revealed. It seemed that both old Bengali expat. He was taken to Al-Sabah Hospital. A 16-year-old Kuwaiti boy fell down in Green Island were taking drugs in their cell together. A car accident opposite the skating hall resulted in and broke his right leg. He was taken to Al-Amiri Security officer of the prison reported yesterday multiple injuries for a 16-year-old Kuwaiti girl and nose- Hospital. morning about the death of the Kuwaiti inmate in bleed for a 10-year-old Indian girl. Both were taken to Al- A 25-year-old non-Kuwaiti had a nasty fall at Al- prison. He was 38. The medical report indicated that the Amiri Hospital. Mangaf near Fingerprints and broke his two legs. He was deceased was already dead when he was brought to the A car accident opposite Recreation City resulted in taken to Al-Adan Hospital. hospital, and his lips and eyes had turned blue. The multiple injuries for a 24-year-old non-Kuwaiti man, who A four-year-old Egyptian boy fell down at Al-Marina inmate was in ward 2 of the central jail and was under- was taken to Al-Jahra Hospital. Crescent and broke his right arm. He was taken to going a life sentence on charges of consuming and trad- A car accident at Al-Surra opposite the security office Mubarak Hospital. ing in drugs. A case was filed. resulted in multiple injuries for a 28-year-old Egyptian A 16-year-old Palestinian boy fell down at the English A car accident in Al-Istiqlal Street opposite man, who was taken to Mubarak Hospital. playground in Salmiya and broke his left arm. He was Continental Hotel resulted in neck pain for a 40-year-old As a 54-year-old Bengali expat was crossing the road taken to Mubarak Hospital. Kuwaiti woman, who was taken to Al-Amiri Hospital. at Al-Jabriya when a passing car hit him, causing multi- A fight at Amghara scrapyard left a 41-year-old Sri A car accident on the coastal road opposite Burger ple injuries all over his body. He was taken to Mubarak Lankan man with an injured left leg, and he was then King at Mahboula resulted in multiple injuries for a 26- Hospital. taken to Al-Jahra Hospital. Kuwait’s Marine Fire dept rescues 35 from yacht Vessel stuck in rocks off Kobbar By Hanna Al-Saadoun Marine fire center rushed the boats “Mubasher” “Mubasher” and 16 more on boat “Monjed.” Three and “Monjed” to the site, supported by Salimiya people were carried by coast guards. KUWAIT: Personnel from the Marine Fire Rescue Marine fire center personnel on board the boat As for the yacht, it was dealt with by the fire boat Center safely brought out a yacht and 35 people “Monqeth 2.” “Monqeth 2” that ensured it was afloat once again, aboard it after it was caught amidst rocks north of They received the call for help at 10:40 pm Friday and escorted it to the yacht club. The accident han- the Kobbar Islands, all within one hour of receiving night, indicating that their 70-feet-long vessel was dling was supervised by General Director of fire the first distress call from the vessel. stuck among the rocks north of Kobbar Island. department, Yousuf Al-Ansari, and his deputy, Brig. The fire rescue boat responded in double quick As the fire rescue men reached the site, they Khalid Al-Mikrad and Colonel Tareq Al-Sabti. The time and its efforts helped extricate 35 members found that the yacht was leased by a Kuwaiti family effort was led by Shuiba fire center director Major of the Kuwaiti family from their predicament. The comprising 35 persons. They were shifted to the fire Bader Al-Kadam and Marine fire center director, Marine Center received a call for help. The Shuaiba department’s boat with 16 people on boat Major Hamad Bodastour Salimar.

News in brief

MOH lifts ban on 205 medical jobs KUWAIT: The Civil Service Commission has lifted ban on 205 medical jobs for non-Kuwaitis at the Ministry of Health for its budget 2012/2013. The jobs which are now open range from doctors, pharmacists, technicians and nurses. Number of jobs available for doctors are 74 jobs, nurses 90, technicians 38 and three for pharmacists.

University in Shadadiyah KUWAIT: Traffic control is needed to prevent any expected traffic jams prior to the opening of Kuwait University in Shadadiyah area, said the Municipality here yesterday. Municipality official Nazar Al-Sayegh said that preventative measures must be planned prior to the opening of the Shadadhiyah University which would replace the University Faculties areas such as Kaifan, Shuwaik, Khaldiya, and Al-Udailya. He noted that the traffic jams that might occur on the sixth ring road and in areas where infrastructure repairs or constructions are taking place. Al-Sayegh also noted that despite KU’s plans to allocated 50,000 parking spaces for students and faculty members of soon to be opened university, the problem would resurface in the 2030 when the expected numbers of students might exceed the capaci- ty of the parking lot. The official called on all state insti- tutions to look into the matter before any sort of prob- lem would occur.

Kuwait’s Saudi embassy website JEDDAH: Kuwaitis, Saudis and citizens of other coun- tries can as of now log into newly-established website of the Kuwaiti Embassy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for queries or information. In a statement on the occasion of launching the website, accessible via www. kuwait- embassy.sa, Kuwaiti Ambassador to the Kingdom, Sheikh Thamer Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, stated that the step was intended to facilitate bureaucratic and paper procedures for the nationals, Saudis, expatriates and peoples of other countries. The embassy is also reach- able round the clock via the “hot line:” 0500554256.

Kuwait Writers association fest KUWAIT: Kuwait Writers Association has held its cultural festival luring a number of visitors who hailed the activi- ty for sake of enhancing cultural education at the nation- al level. The visitors, interviewed by KUNA, praised the activity for the association cultural season (2012-2013), namely diversity of the themes addressed in lectures by eminent figures. Abdullah Murad said, in remarks to KUNA, the event attracted officials, well-known literary and cultural personalities, namely Iranian Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Mohammad Hoseini. SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 LOCAL

Kuwait, Grenada establish diplomatic relations

UNITED NATIONS: Kuwait and and Grenada have maintained coor- with Grenada’s interests in all Gulf He recalled that the relationship in getting the governments and Grenada have decided to establish dination at some levels since the 70s, and Arab states. between the two countries, through peoples together. I truly hope and diplomatic relations in line with joint and Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic After the signing ceremony, the Kuwaiti Fund, dates from many expect from our signing of the Joint desire to promote friendly ties and Development has had projects in Steele told KUNA and Kuwait TV that decades ago. He indicated that it Communique today that we will cooperate in political, economic and this country for a long time. establishing relations between the was “appropriate that we also for- have more technical and cultural cultural sectors. Noting Kuwait’s desire to coop- exchanges, trade, and technical A joint statement in this respect erate with Grenada in the economic assistance from Kuwait in our petro- was signed here by the Permanent and investment sectors, Ambassador leum exploration.” Delegate of Kuwait at the UN, Al-Otaibi indicated that the Gulf He expressed his country’s desire Ambassador Mansour Ayyad Al- state desires to coordinate with this to open an embassy or a Trade Otaibi and Grenada’s Foreign country regarding various crucial Mission in the region, but “we have Minister Nickolas Steele. issues of global ramifications, tack- our challenges in terms of budgetary Governments of the two coun- led by the UN. constraints,” adding that “my hope tries have taken the move for service Kuwait and Grenada cooperate as and expectation is that in signing of the two states’ national interests members in several organizations, the Joint communiquÈ today, we and in affirmation of the two sides’ namely the Non-Aligned Movement, can push forward with our relations abidance by objectives and princi- the 77-Group+China, addressing and quite possibly have that Mission ples of the UN for safeguarding various questions of common inter- open in Kuwait as soon as possible, international peace and security. est such as sustainable development and it will be Grenada’s first embassy In a statement to KUNA and and climatic change. Ambassador or Mission in the region.” Grenada is Kuwait Television after signing the Al-Otaibi expressed desire to take an island country at the southern joint statement, Ambassador Al- further steps to consolidate the ties end of the Caribbean Sea. It is Otaibi expressed satisfaction for with Grenada, such as naming a known as the “Island of Spice” establishing these ties, noting that non-resident Kuwaiti ambassador to THE UNITED NATIONS: Ambassador Mansour Ayyad Al-Otaibi because of the production of nut- the step was in line with Kuwait’s the country and establishing an and Grenada’s Foreign Minister Nickolas Steele. —KUNA meg and mace crops of which policy of openness with states of the embassy for it in the Gulf country. He Grenada is one of the world’s largest globe, namely small countries in the added that Minister Steele informed two countries “is actually important malize the relations between the exporters. Its economy is based on Caribbean and the Pacific. Kuwait him that his country desires to have to our country and to me personally,” two countries so that we can go tourism. Its size is 344 square kilo- has recently established diplomatic diplomatic representation in Kuwait, adding that when Grenada opens an from strong to stronger, not just meters, with an estimated popula- relations with around nine countries, indeed, and looks forward to charge embassy or Trade Mission in Kuwait, from the assistance that we have tion of 110,000. Its capital is St several in these two regions. Kuwait the diplomatic mission in Kuwait it will be the first in the region. received from the Kuwaiti Fund, but George. —KUNA Officers injured in central Jail melee Teen driver held with loaded firearms KUWAIT: Six police officers were injured in a carried out these crimes while impersonat- Asian nationals while one man managed to quarrel with prisoners inside the Central Jail ing Kuwaiti nationals. escape. The detainees were referred to the late Thursday night. According to the police proper authorities for further action. report, an operation to apprehend inmates Teen driver held in possession of contrabands triggered the A teenager was arrested for driving with- Mom reunited fighting. The security team reportedly out a license and possessing loaded A toddler was reunited with his mother entered cell number 10 as part of a surprise firearms even as his brother is being ques- hours after a pedestrian who saw him sleep- operation based on information that four tioned on suspicions of trying to cover up ing near a street in the area and informed prisoners, including a Saudi and three state- the crime. The 17-year-old was arrested officers at the Al-Nugra’s police station. The less residents, were in possession of contra- when traffic patrol officers pulled him over four-year-old was brought to the police sta- bands. The four showed resistance and used and then found he was under the legal age tion on Thursday morning by a Kuwaiti Firemen’s efforts lauded sharp edged objects to attack the officers. A of driving. The juvenile’s brother soon woman who said that she had found him lieutenant colonel and a first lieutenant arrived after he was called to collect the wandering alone. A few hours afterwards, were wounded in the incident. Police man- teenager’s belongings from the car. police were approached by a woman By Hanan Al-Saadoun office the General Director of risky and prone by dangers. Some of aged to overpower the inmates and then However, police grew suspicious about a reporting her boy missing. The woman Handicaps authority Dr Jassam Al- the officials have sustained injuries seized the contrabands which reportedly plastic bag that the older brother took out explained that the child managed to sneak KUWAIT: General Director of Fire Tanmer and his Deputy Essam Ben during operations resulting in physi- included a cell phone and SIM cards. of the car, and inspected it to find two out of her sister’s house where she had left Department Lt General Yousuf Haider. cal disability to them. Dr Al-Tanmar loaded pistols. The two were referred to the him to attend to some business. Both, the Abdullah Al-Ansari along with his The meeting discussed ways of hailed the great efforts being made by Passports stolen proper authorities to face charges. mother and son, was reunited. Deputies Brig Khalid Al-Tarkait and cooperation between the two parties. firemen to protect the lives and prop- Authorities in Thailand arrested an Iraqi Brig Khalid Al-Mikrad received in his They felt that the job of the firemen is erty of the society. national who reportedly used Kuwaiti pass- Salmiya crackdown Two nabbed in fight ports stolen from tourists to dupe people in Nearly a hundred people were arrested A man was hospitalized with a stab cases reported recently in the Asian country. for visa-related violations during a recent wound following a fight reported in Kuwait Several hotels and individuals had filed security crackdown which also netted nine City recently. Police and paramedics rushed scam cases in Thailand against Kuwaiti women on suspicions of being drunk. The to a shopping mall in the area where a fight nationals, before investigations revealed operation that took place in Salmiya saw the was reported happening. They headed to that those accused parties had actually police secure the area’s entrances. They were the parking lot where the fighting was on reported their passports stolen before these able to arrest around one hundred Asian and apprehended three people who were crimes took place. Undersecretary of nationals who failed to produce valid visas, involved in the quarrel. One man was taken Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry Khalid Al-Jarrallah in addition to nine Kuwaiti women for intox- to the Amiri Hospital with a stab wound on told Al-Rai newspaper that coordination ication. Furthermore, police raided a place his shoulder, while two others were taken to between Kuwaiti and Thai authorities used to make homebrewed alcoholic drinks, the police station for investigations. A case helped arrest the suspect who reportedly and arrested an unspecified number of was filed. NBK celebrates its 61st anniversary

KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait three shops and a handful of employ- overseas banking network encompass- (NBK) celebrates this year its 61st ees relying on traditional and manual ing more than 173 branches, represen- anniversary. banking tools to one of the largest and tative offices and subsidiaries strategi- On 19 May, 1952, the late Amir most profitable banks in the region. cally located within the main interna- Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, Today, NBK has the largest local and tional and regional financial centers. . issued the famous Amiri Decree prom- NBK was also recently named ulgating the incorporation of the among the ‘World’s 50 Safest Banks’ for National Bank of Kuwait as the first the seventh consecutive time, illustrat- national bank and the first sharehold- ing the success of the bank’s conserva- ing company in Kuwait and the Gulf. tive strategy, prudent risk manage- The commemoration of this inspir- ment dedication excellent customer ing and monumental anniversary service. NBK enjoys the highest credit comes as a culmination of a remark- ratings among all the banks in the able story of success, by means of Middle East and North Africa region by which NBK has been transformed from international rating agencies Moody’s, a small bank that occupies the area of Standard & Poor’s, and Fitch Ratings. Al-Arabi magazine shows the way Chief editor traces evolution and growth of Al-Arabi KUWAIT: Chief Editor of Kuwait’s top magazine Dr Sulaiman Al-Askari surface, their emergence “has not developed into a general phenome- said the magazine has become a leading publication in the Arab world. non” and their number has remained below the figure of distinguished It has reaped many awards of appreciation and lured a large number of figures in the field that appeared in the 50s and the 90s, he said, calling readers due to continuous renew of its contents and expansion of its sis- for devoting special care to the new generation of intellectual creators terly issues, namely “Al-Arabi Al-Saghir” for children and “Al-Arabi for and “revive the glories we had experience” in these fields in the past.” Sciences,” he added. Mentioning some of the presently famous creators, Al-Askari named the Dr Al-Askari, in an interview, affirmed his keenness on enriching the dramatist, Suleiman Al-Bassam, who studied in Britain and whose pro- editions with new subjects and furnishing the readers, namely the chil- ductions enabled him to gain international fame, however he could not dren, with the sisterly editions namely the monthly “Al-Arabi Al-Saghir,” as put some of his works on stage in Kuwait! Al-Bassam is putting on stage well as the annual book that documents researches presented at the the play of his direction, “Rituals of Signs and Transformations” at theatre magazine annual seminar. The Editor-in-Chief, who has been in charge of “Comedie Francaise,” in the French capital the first foreigner to be giv- of the magazine staff since 1999, urged talented young Kuwaitis to join en the green light to display at the top French theatre. his team and work as editors, literary or scientific writers with aim of He also mentioned as another example the novelist, Saud Al- enriching it with new thoughts and works. Sanousi, who has recently won the International prize for Arabic Fictions. Al-Arabi is a monthly Arabic magazine that focuses mainly on cul- “Such persons are a national wealth that must be sponsored and ture, literature, art, politics, society, and economics of Kuwait and the encouraged,” he stressed. As to Al-Gurain Cultural Festival which he Arab world. The first edition was published in December 1958. It encour- founded in 1994 while serving as the Chairman of the National Council ages public participation, and makes use of photography and freelance for Culture, Arts and Letters, Dr. Al-Askari noted that the festival was one work. Its first edition was published in December 1958. Since its estab- of the important cultural achievements in Kuwait, noting that encour- lishment, the magazine has witnessed steady modernization in topics agement for its establishment by HH the late Amir Sheikh Jaber Al- and sections, in line with the technological advancement of the day. Ahmad Al-Sabah. “We have been proud of the festival because it has Today’s editions include an article written by the Editor-in-Chief, a specif- presented Kuwait after the liberation as a major Arab cultural hub and ic topic in which many different writers share ideas, works of a select effective contributor to promotion of the Arab arts and cultures,” he poet and literature papers tackling recent issues. Turning to current liter- added. The annual Al-Gurain Festival attracts local and Arab literary and ary-cultural status in Kuwait, the renowned intellectual personality and artistic personalities, he boasted. However, Al-Askari called for greater veteran writer said Kuwait used to be in the past an example in the Gulf care and support to maintain the high status of the annual cultural region in the realms of culture and arts, adding that the Kuwaiti cultural event. Culture, he elaborated, is an effective tool that contributes to experience was being examined by neighboring and regional states to maintaining relations among states, also stressing on its role for building learn from its strides and falls, namely lingering setbacks caused by the foundations of states. 1990 “Saddami invasion” of the country. As to the Alam Al-Maarefah magazine, which he headed when he Delving further into this issue, Al-Askari said he sensed drop of inter- was the chairman of the National Council of Culture, Arts and Letters, he est by the educational institutions in culture, literature and arts, stating affirmed that the monthly edition “has effectively contributed to the cul- that education and activities in these fields “open up new intellectual ture in the Arab world.” He called for continuous efforts to keep publish- horizons for students, to be creative and adopt free methods of think- ing it and recalled a conversation with the late advisor of the magazine, ing.” Negligence of such an approach hinders establishment of an Dr Fuad Zakaria, before his demise, during which he told him that the advanced society at all levels, he warned. Although a large number of magazine was the most significant “scientific project he had overseen young Kuwaiti innovators in culture and arts have recently come to the throughout his life.” —KUNA SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013

Argentina ‘Dirty War’ France becomes 14th country to legalize gay marriage dictator Videla dies

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ALEPPO: Syrian rebel fighter Tawfiq Hassan, 23, a former butcher, poses for a picture, after returning from fighting against Syrian army forces in Aleppo, at a rebel headquarters in Marea on the outskirts of Aleppo city, Syria. Lack of unity among rebel fighters has characterized the armed conflict from the start, and there were new signs yesterday that infighting is on the rise. — AP Rebel groups clash in northern Syria Wave of tit-for-tat kidnappings in Aleppo

BEIRUT: A wave of tit-for-tat kidnappings been engulfed in heavy fighting since rebels “The situation is very tense in Aleppo,” said tral province of Hama after weeks of fighting bears a close resemblance to two reported between rival Islamic militant groups in the launched an assault there in July and captured Abdul-Rahman, who relies on a network of with government troops. It said the villages mass killings last year in Houla and Qubeir, northern Syrian city of Aleppo risks sparking several neighborhoods. Over the past few activists around the country. He said that were inhabited by members of Assad’s minori- Sunni villages surrounded by Alawite towns. large-scale internal fighting between rebels weeks, regime forces have been pursuing an Ghurabaa Al-Sham has warned it will bring ty Alawite sect, an offshoot of Shiite Islam. Many of the rebels trying to overthrow Assad after clashes killed at least four militants, offensive in the city, mainly focused on push- some of its members from outside the city to It said the Alawite villages - Tleisiyeh, today say they want to replace his govern- activists said yesterday. The director of the ing the rebels from around the international fight against the Judicial Council if its mem- Zaghba, Shaata and Balil - are all on the east- ment with an Islamic state. Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human airport and a nearby military air base. bers are not freed. Saeed said Ghurabaa Al- ern side of the central province. The The Syrian National Coalition, the main Rights, Rami Abdul-Rahman, said a coalition of Abdul-Rahman said tensions among rebel Sham released all Judicial Council members it Observatory said residents fled the area cap- umbrella opposition group warned in a state- rebel groups known as the Judicial Council factions have been rising in opposition-held was holding while the other group refused to tured by rebels. The uprising against Assad’s ment that government forces are currently had accused another armed opposition fac- areas, mostly on the eastern side of the city. set free Ghuarbaa al-Sham members and is rule that began in March 2011 quickly became imposing a siege and communications black- tion, the Ghurabaa Al-Sham, of plundering fac- The two groups, the Judicial Council and the still holding them. an outlet for long-suppressed grievances, out on the towns of Halfaya and Aqrab in tories in Aleppo’s industrial neighborhood. Ghurabaa Al-Sham, clashed on Tuesday near He added that the Judicial Council is an mostly by poor Sunnis from marginalized Hama. “Civilians in those areas are now cut off Aleppo, Syria’s largest city and a former com- Aleppo in fighting that left four members of umbrella organization that includes the areas. It has since escalated into an outright from contact with the outside world, and mercial center, is split between rebel and gov- the Judicial Council dead, Abldul-Rahman Tawheed Brigade, Al-Sham Liberals and the Al- civil war that killed more than 70,000 people lives are in extreme danger,” the coalition said ernment control. said. He added that the Judicial Council is now Qaeda-affiliated Jabhat Al-Nusra - one of the according to the United Nations. The conflict in a statement. The Observatory and the Any internal fighting between rebels in the holding dozens of members of Ghurabaa al- most effective forces among the mosaic of has grown increasingly sectarian, both in Local Coordination Committees, another city would play into the hands of the regime, Sham captive. Aleppo-based activist rebel brigades fighting to topple Assad in action and rhetoric. activist group, reported intense clashes which is trying to tarnish the image of the Mohammed Saeed said Ghurabaa al-Sham Syria’s civil war. “There are fears that fighting Earlier this month, activists reported that around the town of Qusair near the Lebanon opposition by saying it is dominated by withdrew its fighters from several neighbor- (between rebels) might erupt in Aleppo,” troops and pro-government Alawite gunmen border. Syrian opposition groups say mem- extremists linked to Al-Qaeda network. hoods, including the industrial area, and that it Saeed said by telephone. In other parts of killed more than 100 people in Sunnis areas in bers of Lebanon’s militant Hezbollah group Aleppo, a city of 3 million that was once a bas- had released all of the Judicial Council mem- Syria, the Observatory reported that rebels the coastal city of Banias and the nearby town are taking part in the fighting along with tion of support for President Bashar Assad, has bers it had been holding captive. captured several villages late Friday in the cen- of Bayda. The violence in Banias and Bayda Assad’s forces. — AP Merkel, Pope talk about ‘strong’ Europe

VATICAN CITY: German Chancellor Angela zens as a champion of debt reduction even at the ket won’t happen again.” Merkel, mindful of the weight of Christian voters cost of painful austerity across much of the conti- Merkel added: “It ought to be like this: the in September elections, made a quick trip to nent. On Thursday, Francis blasted what he called economy is there to serve the people. In the last Rome yesterday for a private meeting with Pope a “cult of money” in a global financial system that few years, this hasn’t been the case at all every- Francis, focusing on how Europe’s struggling ends up tyrannizing, not helping, the world’s where.” Italy, Spain, Ireland, Portugal and espe- economy should be at the service of the people. poor. Asked whether they had also talked about cially Greece, have seen governments concen- Merkel spoke privately for 45 minutes with the the pope’s recent criticism, Merkel said that they trate on debt reduction while slashing state pope at the Apostolic Palace, after exchanging spoke about the regulation of the financial mar- spending. With growth stymied, unemployment, cordial greetings in Germany. kets. “The regulation of the financial markets is especially among young people, has soared. Her Christian Democrat party depends heavily our central problem, our central task,” said Businesses, many of them family-run in southern on support from Protestant and Catholic voters, Merkel, who met with reporters on the Vatican Europe, have failed as bank lending dried up. and the chat and photo opportunity could be a grounds. “We are moving ahead, but we are not The chancellor also said the pope had welcome campaign boost for a leader largely yet where we want to be, where we could say stressed that the world needs a strong and just identified by Europe’s economically suffering citi- that a derailment of the guard rails of social mar- Europe and described the overall conversation has encouraging. Merkel is currently campaign- ing for re-election in September’s general elec- tions. Half of Germany’s population is Catholic. In Bavaria especially, there is a strong conservative and Catholic tradition. According to a Vatican statement, Francis and Merkel concentrated on topics of “common inter- est, including the socio-political, economic and religious situation in Europe and in the world.” “In particular, they spoke about safeguarding human rights, about the persecutions faced by Christians, about religious freedom and of inter- national collaboration to promote peace,” the Vatican said. Francis, who is Argentine, has picked up on campaigns by the two previous popes, the Polish John Paul II and German Benedict XVI, to reinvigo- rate what the Catholic church sees as flagging reli- gious enthusiasm on a continent with Christian roots, including dwindling number of churchgoers in much of Western Europe. The Vatican also uses papal visits with major leaders to seek allies in its lobbying on behalf of Christians who face discrim- VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis gestures with German Chancellor Angela Merkel during a private ination and in some cases physical violence in audience at the Vatican yesterday. — AFP parts of the world. —AP SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 INTERNATIONAL Gunmen kill Yemeni intelligence officer Yemen general denounces ‘sabotage’ of air force ADEN: Suspected Al-Qaeda gun- men shot dead a Yemeni intelli- gence officer in a drive-by attack in the southern city of Mukalla, capital of the southeastern Hadramawt province, a police source said yesterday. Two men riding a motorbike shot Colonel Abdullah Al-Ribaki on Friday evening in a residential area of RAFAH BORDER: Egyptian security forces chant in protest of the abduction of four Mukalla, the source said, adding: colleagues at the country’s main crossing point into the Gaza Strip in Rafah, Egypt. “Al-Qaeda is behind this killing.” Dozens of disgruntled border policemen forced the closure of the Rafah border Another local official said that between Egypt and Gaza yesterday to protest the abduction of four border police- Ribaki had been a target for the men working at the Rafah crossing. — AP network, which recently posted notices in Mukalla threatening to step up their fight against intelli- Muslims, Christians gence officers and police. Al- Qaeda militants were driven out clash in Alexandria of most of their strongholds in Yemen’s south last June in an all- CAIRO: Egyptian security officials say symbolic heart of the opposition move- out offensive by government clashes between Muslims and Christians in ment that brought down President Hosni forces aided by local “resistance the Mediterranean port city of Alexandria Mubarak in February 2011. Earlier Friday, committees”. Militants from Al- left one man dead of a heart attack. marches had begun in various parts of the Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula Officials say the clashes in the city’s El- capital with the aim of converging on had taken advantage of the Dekheila suburb erupted when a Coptic Tahrir Square. weakness of Yemen’s central gov- man allegedly sexually harassed a Muslim At the head of one march people were ernment during a 2011 uprising against now-ousted president Ali woman. Residents of the area fired bird- carrying two large banners, one reading SANAA: Supporters of Yemen’s former President Ali Abdullah Saleh shout slogans during the anniversary Abdullah Saleh. AQAP fighters shot and threw Molotov cocktails at one “an early presidential election” and the of an assassination attempt on Saleh in Sanaa, Yemen. Saleh, along with other senior figures were injured seized large swathes of territory another during the Friday night fighting. other “a unifying constitution for Egypt”. in a bomb attack at his presidential compound in Sanaa on June 3, 2011. — AP Police say Christian resident Sherif Marchers from the Tamarod (rebellion) across the south, including most Sedky died of a heart attack during the campaign, which claims to have garnered of Abyan province, which they quoted witnesses as saying the to make an emergency landing in targeting the air force. clashes. Police forces were beefed up more than two million signatures demand- controlled for a year. jet had exploded 50 meters the central Bayda province after it Meanwhile, President around the local church yesterday in case ing that Morsi resign, collected more above the ground. The air force was shot at three times, Janad Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi urged of further violence. Officials spoke on con- names from people along the route. Before ‘SABOTAGE’ OF AIR FORCE said it would open an investiga- said in the interview, adding that vigilance from the air force. “We dition of anonymity because they were not the clashes, state media said security had Yemen’s air force has been the tion into the crash, the second security forces had arrested 12 are fighting forces who do not authorized to brief the media. Coptic been beefed up around the interior min- target of “sabotage”, the country’s time a Sukhoi jet has crashed men over the attack. want the best for Yemen, or secu- Christians make up about 10 percent of istry, close to Tahrir Square, as it has been military aviation chief said in a over the capital since the start of But Janad said these acts of rity and stability in the country,” Egypt’s population. Sectarian violence has the scene of violent confrontations in the televised interview, days after a the year. On February 19, a “sabotage” took on a new dimen- he said in a visit to the air force’s been on the rise in Egypt over the past two past. The protest was called by groups fighter jet crashed in the capital Yemeni air force jet crashed into a sion with the explosion on May 6 headquarters yesterday. Without years. including the Al-Dustur party of former UN Sanaa. “The air force is the target residential area of Sanaa, killing of two refuelling vehicles at Al- giving further details, Hadi said In another development, demonstra- atomic watchdog chief Mohamed of systematic sabotage,” General 12 people, including the pilot. Anad air base in southern Yemen, these forces were “working to tors calling for Egypt’s Islamist President ElBaradei and the April 6 movement that Rashed Al-Janad told the private Janad said an Antonov M26 the largest in the country. “The shake the unity of the army, but Mohamed Morsi to resign and demanding spearheaded the 2011 uprising to oust channel Al-Saida in the interview that came down north of Sanaa aim was to blow up the base’s they will not succeed in their early elections clashed with riot police in then president Mubarak. The opposition broadcast late on Friday. He said in November 2012 “had also been fuel store, but the fire was quickly aims and they will be eradicated,” Cairo late Friday. Hundreds of people had accuses Morsi of governing only in the the Sukhoi SU-22 that crashed in hit by shots that caused a fire in brought under control,” he said. official news agency Saba quoted marched on Cairo’s Tahrir Square on Friday interests of his Muslim Brotherhood, while Sanaa last Monday, killing the one of its engines”. He added Janad replaced a half-brother of him as saying. Supporters of for the protest, called by a number of he insists he is the “president of all pilot, was caused by “shots hitting that two other military aircraft, ousted president Ali Abdallah Saleh, who have been accused of opposition groups. The demonstrators, Egyptians”. Since Morsi was elected last the aircraft” as it prepared to land including a helicopter, had been Saleh as Yemen’s air force chief a hampering Yemen’s political tran- most of them teenagers, threw molotov June, Egypt has continued to suffer from a at a base next to the capital’s air- fired on last November near year ago, as part of a restructur- sition, were removed from top cocktails at the police who replied with serious political and economic crisis, and port. Sanaa, although they had not ing of the armed forces. The gen- military and security posts after volleys of tear gas cannisters, but there there have often been frequent clashes, “The black box of the aircraft been hit. On Wednesday, an army eral said those who had been he left power in February 2012 were no reports of casualties. The clashes sometimes deadly, between his opponents was hit” in the attack, he said helicopter carrying Transport affected by the restructuring may following a year of widespread took place near Cairo’s Tahrir Square, the and supporters.—Agencies without giving further details. He Minister Ahmad bin Dagher had be behind the acts of sabotage protests. — Agencies Tuareg and Arab groups battle in northern Mali BAMAKO: Fighting has broken out in northern Mali between Tuareg sepa- ratists and local Arab-led gunmen, only days after the African country won a $4.2 billion aid pledge to help it recover from a conflict with Islamists affiliated to Al-Qaeda. Rebel and military sources both confirmed the clashes, although they differed over precisely which groups were involved. The violence highlights how pockets of fighters who escaped a four-month French-led offen- sive against the Al-Qaeda-linked mili- tants in the north are undermining efforts to restore state authority ahead of a presidential election set for July 28. France said this week the ‘terrorists’ had been defeated. The MNLA, a Tuareg rebel group, said its forces were attacked in the town of Anefis by a column of Islamist fight- ers on Friday. Its Paris-based spokesman, Moussa Ag Acharatoumane, said fighting contin- This image grab taken from a video shows French Jihadist Gilles Le ued yesterday morning, with two of the Guen, known as ‘Abdel Jelil’, delivering a message to warn France, the US group’s fighters and at least seven and the UN against a military intervention in northern Mali. French Islamists killed so far. The MNLA said it jihadist Gilles Le Guen was charged on May 17, 2013, according to judici- was fighting MUJWA, an Islamist group ary sources. — AFP that occupied the town of Gao for tional donors promised 3.25 billion desert state from Mali’s north. It initially months until earlier this year and has euros ($4.22 billion) on Wednesday to fought alongside a mix of Al-Qaeda- launched a series of guerrilla-style help the country recover and prevent a linked Islamist forces seeking to impose counter-attacks on the town since it resurgence by the Islamist rebels. Islamic law on Mali’s north, and the was retaken in the French offensive. French President Francois Hollande dis- uneasy coalition swept aside govern- A Malian army officer, who asked not missed comparisons between Mali and ment troops in March 2012. to be named, confirmed there had been Afghanistan, which provided safe haven The MNLA was later sidelined by the heavy fighting, likely stemming from to Al-Qaeda when it was preparing the better armed Islamists, but has now tak- long-standing rivalries between Tuareg Sept. 11 attacks and is still fighting a en advantage of the French offensive to and Arab communities that make up Taleban insurgency 12 years later. re-occupy several northern towns it northern Mali’s array of armed groups. “In Mali, the terrorists have been had lost to them. Having watered down However he said the clashes were beaten. I don’t say there are none left, I independence claims, it is demanding between the MNLA and the MAA, a don’t say there is no risk, but there is no talks with the government over a group made up of Malian Arabs based longer any fighting,” Hollande said. The degree of autonomy. French forces are north of Timbuktu. It was not possible Tuareg MNLA launched a rebellion in reducing their numbers and are due to to independently confirm the informa- January last year, citing years of margin- hand over security responsibilities to a tion. In a sign of the outside world’s alization by the government as justifica- United Nations peacekeeping mission concern about stability in Mali, interna- tion for carving out an independent that will be rolled out in July.— Reuters Morocco to harness wind in energy hunt TARFAYA: Morocco is ploughing from 2015. Wind power will supply is carrying out the work said. “It’s a ahead with a program to boost wind the remaining 2,000 MW, and high-speed project,” he added. By energy production, particularly in the Morocco’s wind-blown southern December 2014, if all goes to plan, southern Tarfaya region, where coast, where many of the new farms 131 turbines, each 80 meters tall, will Africa’s largest wind farm is set to will be built, already resembles a huge dot the desert landscape. open in 2014. The kingdom, which has building site. Together they will produce 300 no hydrocarbon reserves of its own, At Tarfaya, which will be home to MW, enough to meet the energy hopes to cover 42 percent of its ener- the continent’s biggest wind farm, the needs of several hundred people, gy needs with renewable sources by project led by the French company Schang said. At a cost of nearly 500 2020, and has launched a plan to pro- GDF Suez, in partnership with local million euros ($640 million), the duce 4,000 megawatts. company Nareva Holding, is only just Tarfaya wind farm, stretching over Half of this will come from solar beginning. “Building started at the nearly 20 kilometers, will allow energy: at the beginning of May, the end of December 2012. But the first Morocco to “avoid CO2 emissions first of five solar power plants near section, which will produce 50 MW, equal to the amount absorbed by 150 Ouarzazate was officially launched, will be in service in January,” Francis million trees,” Boutaina Sefiani, the and the site is set to be operational Schang, a manager at Siemens which head of the project, said. —AFP SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 INTERNATIONAL Rome protest turns up heat on new Italian PM Honeymoon over for Letta after less than a month ROME: Thousands of people protested clusive elections, is already falling, with pension reform to shore up strained in Rome yesterday against austerity poli- one poll on Friday by the SWG institute public finances. cies and high unemployment, urging showing its approval rating had dropped “We need to start over with more new Prime Minister Enrico Letta to focus to 34 percent from 43 percent at the investment. If we don’t restart with pub- on creating jobs to help pull the country start of the month. “We can’t wait any- lic and private investments, there will no out of recession. “We hope that this gov- more” and “We need money to live” were new jobs,” said Maurizio Landini, secre- ernment will finally start listening to us among slogans on banners held up by tary-general of the left-wing metalwork- because we are losing our patience,” said the crowds. ers union Fiom. Italy is stuck in its Enzo Bernardis, who joined the sea of Letta promised to make jobs his top longest recession since quarterly records protesters waving red flags and calling priority when he came to power in April began in 1970, and jobless rates are for more workers’ rights and better con- after two months of political deadlock. close to record highs, with youth unem- tracts. But several protesters complained he ployment at around 38 percent. Other Less than a month in power, Letta is was not sticking to his vow, focusing protesters were pessimistic that Letta’s trying to hold together an uneasy coali- instead on a property tax reform out- fragile government would be able to tion between his centre-left Democratic lined this week. Union leaders said he take effective action. “This government party and the centre-right People of needed to shift away from the austerity will last a very short time,” said demon- Freedom, led by former Prime Minister agenda pursued by former Prime strator Marco Silvani. What we need is a Silvio Berlusconi. Confidence in the gov- Minister Mario Monti, who introduced a new leftist party that fights for the rights ROME: Demonstrators applaud during the left-wing Italian metalworkers’ ernment, cobbled together after incon- range of spending cuts, tax hikes and of the people,” he said. — Reuters union FIOM rally in downtown Rome Piazza San Giovanni yesterday. — AFP France becomes 14th country to legalize same-sex marriage Hollande signs gay marriage bill into law PARIS: France yesterday became issue of gay marriage and adoption dent Nicolas Sarkozy challenged denounce the ruling backing the the 14th country to legalize same- has provoked months of acrimo- the measures on constitutional bill and calling on Hollande to sex marriage after President nious debate and hundreds of grounds immediately after resign. One police officer was Francois Hollande signed the meas- protests that have occasionally deputies passed the bill in parlia- injured after a flammable liquid ure into law following months of spilled over into violence and is ment. But Friday’s statement by the was thrown in his face. bitter political debate. Hollande unlikely to drop off the political Constitutional Council said same- Earlier, a group of bare-chested acted a day after the Constitutional agenda. Although the sex marriage “did not run contrary men wearing white masks staged Council threw out a legal challenge Constitutional Council approved to any constitutional principles,” their own protest against gay mar- by the right-wing opposition, the bill on Friday, the International and that it did not infringe on riage on one of the bridges over which had been the last obstacle to Day Against Homophobia, its “basic rights or liberties or national the Seine. They call themselves the passing the bill into law. The legisla- opponents have vowed to fight on. sovereignty”. Reacting to the ruling “Hommen”-a riposte to the bare- tion also legalises gay adoption. They have called a major protest Friday, UMP party chief Jean- breasted feminist protesters known But while gay rights groups rally scheduled for May 26 in Paris- Francois Cope told TF1 television: as the “Femmen”. Gay rights groups hailed the move, opponents of the and previous protests have drawn “It is a decision that I regret, but hailed the decision as a watershed. measures have vowed to fight on. hundreds of thousands of people. that I respect.” But late on Friday, “Now it’s celebration time,” said NEW YORK: Hofstra University students gather near the house where another stu- Hollande made “marriage for all” a In April, the main right-wing oppo- between 200 and 300 protesters spokesman Nicolas Gougain of the dent and an armed intruder were killed during an overnight house break-in next to central plank of his presidential sition UMP party of former presi- gathered in central Paris to LGBT association representing the the campus in Uniondale, NY. — AP election campaign last year. On lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgen- Friday, he tried to turn the page on der communities. But gay rights College student, intruder months of bitter opposition to the watchdog SOS Homophobie measures, arguing it was “time to added: “Our country has taken a die in New York break-in respect the law and the Republic”. great step forward today although And he warned that he would toler- it’s regrettable that it was taken in a UNIONDALE: A Hofstra University junior Associated Press that the woman called 911 ate no resistance. “I will ensure that climate of bad faith and homopho- sharing an off-campus house with her twin from near an ATM. The official was not the law applies across the whole bic violence.” The issue of gay mar- sister and several other college students authorized to discuss the investigation pub- territory, in full, and I will not accept riage has divided France, which is was shot and killed during an early morning licly and spoke to the AP on condition of any disruption of these marriages,” officially secular but overwhelm- break-in Friday that also left the armed anonymity. “Today is the last day of finals said the president. ingly Catholic. Protests against the intruder dead, police said. The shooting at a and this should be a happy day on campus; The Socialist mayor of the south- bill drew hundreds of thousands, private house only steps from the Long but it’s not,” said Hofstra freshman Scott ern French city of Montpellier will with a handful of hard-core protest- Island campus cast a pall over the university Aharoni of Great Neck, as he passed officiate the municipality’s first gay ers clashing with police. Last year, community gearing up for commencement through the area rife with yellow crime- marriage on May 29, her office said the proposals seemed to enjoy sol- ceremonies this weekend. Hofstra’s presi- scene tape early Friday morning. “It’s really yesterday, in what is also expected id majority backing among French dent said in a statement that the cere- sad.” to be the country’s first. Marriages voters. But as the opposition cam- monies would go on as scheduled. Victoria Dehel, who lives four houses in France must be civil ceremonies paign got into gear, more recent It wasn’t clear who fired the fatal shots or away, said she heard what sounded like performed in town halls, most of polls indicated a shift of opinion to how many rounds were fired, but authori- fighting. At first she ignored it, figuring it which take several weeks to the extent that the electorate is ties said police were involved in the shoot- was from rowdy students coming home process applications. Couples can CAEN: French president Francois Hollande delivers a speech at the city now fairly evenly split on both gay ing, which happened about 2:30 am. A from a bar. Suddenly, “This girl was shriek- then hold a religious ceremony. The hall in Caen, northwestern France. — AFP marriage and adoption. — AFP weapon was found inside the house, police ing,” followed by loud bangs just seconds said. Nassau County police and Hofstra later. “It didn’t sound good at all,” Dehel said. University identified the slain student as “I turned to my boyfriend and I said, ‘I think Andrea Rebello, 21, of Tarrytown, NY. Her someone just got murdered.’ It was awful.” Argentina ‘Dirty War’ dictator Videla dies sister, Jessica, was also in the house at the The university sent a text alert to notify time of the break-in but was not injured, students and staff. “While our hearts are BUENOS AIRES: General Jorge Videla, main horrors that the Argentine people Military leaders agreed that secretly dispos- police said. The gunman was not immedi- laden with grief, this weekend’s commence- Argentina’s dictator at the height of its “Dirty endured.” The federal judge with jurisdiction ing of their prisoners “was a price to pay to win ately identified. ment ceremonies will go on as scheduled,” War” against leftist activists, died Friday in prison over the prison ordered an autopsy to dispel any the war,” Videla said, according to Reato in his “It’s my daughter, my baby daughter,” a Hofstra President Stuart Rabinowitz said in while serving time for crimes against humanity. doubts that Videla might note have died of a book “Final Disposition.” “For that reason, so as crying Fernando Rebello told The Journal a statement. “The accomplishments of our He was 87. Videla launched a ferocious crack- natural cause. In 2010, Videla was sentenced to not to provoke protests inside and outside the News outside his home Friday afternoon. graduates must be recognized, and togeth- down on leftists and suspected supporters when life behind bars for the disappearance of 31 pris- country, the decision was reached that these “She was so beautiful. I’m so confused. “I er our community will heal and find the he took power in 1976. As many as 30,000 peo- oners, and to another 50 years’ jail in 2012 for people should be disappeared.” Videla later said don’t know what to do,” he said, declining to strength to move forward.” ple were kidnapped and “disappeared” by the the theft of children born to female prisoners. he had been misquoted, but the journalist insists discuss the incident further. The two sisters, Andrea Rebello and her sister were 2010 military, and suspected regime opponents were Earlier, in 1985, he was convicted of abuses the general reviewed his handwritten notes and another woman and another man were graduates of Sleepy Hollow High School, swept into secret prisons, tortured and mur- committed under his regime, but pardoned five approved them before publication. The former inside the two-story rental house when the according to principal Carol Conklin- dered. years later by then president Carlos Menem. That dictator died at 0825 (1125 GMT) in the Marcos gunman, wearing a ski mask, forced his way Spillane. Andrea was a public relations In his last public appearance Tuesday, an pardon was declared unconstitutional in 2006 as Paz prison southwest of Buenos Aires, where he in, according to Nassau County Inspector major at Hofstra. “They were smart happy unrepentant Videla, who left office in 1981, told Argentina reopened one of the darkest chapters spent his final days in a spartan cell with a wood- Kenneth Lack. The intruder allowed the beautiful young women,” Conklin-Spillane a court that his subordinates acted under his in its history with trials of former military offi- en cross on the wall. third unidentified woman to leave, and she said. “I speak about them together because orders and assumed “full military responsibility cials. A wiry officer with a brush mustache, an Videla “dies condemned by justice and repu- called 911. Police provided no other details they were very much a matched pair. They for the actions of the army in the war against ter- intense gaze and a passionate hatred of commu- diated by society,” said Nora Cortinas, of the on the man who was in the house at the were best friends by choice.” rorism.” The prison doctor on duty found Videla nism, Videla showed little remorse for the sys- Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo rights group. time of the break-in, except to say he was Andrea Rebello quoted Benjamin in the morning “sitting on the toilet in his cell,” tematic abuses. “Let’s say there were seven thou- Adolfo Perez Esquivel, the 1980 Nobel Peace not injured. A law enforcement official with Franklin and Bob Marley in a yearbook pho- according to the official prison report. He had no sand or eight thousand people who had to die Prize winner who drew international attention to knowledge of the investigation told The to from the school. —AP vital signs. “It is important that he died of natural to win the war against subversion,” Videla said the junta’s abuses, said Videla “never repented of causes in a regular prison,” said Human Rights recently in a prison interview, according to jour- the crimes and he is taking a lot of information Secretary Martin Fresneda. nalist Ceferino Reato. “We couldn’t execute them with him.” Videla was head of the army in 1976 “There was justice, not revenge, and he by firing squad. Neither could we take them to when the military overthrew Isabel Peron, the Residents flee as Nigerian leaves as the person that was responsible for the court,” he was quoted as saying. third wife of the late populist strongman Juan Peron. troops pound Boko haram Argentina’s economy at the time was in tail- spin, the government was rife with corruption KANO: Residents of an insurgent strong- indoors, cutting off his family’s access to and paralyzed by partisan gridlock, and leftists hold in northeast Nigeria fled their homes food and water. “I couldn’t hold on any guerrillas and right-wing death squads were yesterday as military fighter jets and heli- longer. I took the bush path,” and reached running rampant. The junta suspended the con- copters carried out heavy air strikes on Gomboru Ngala yesterday, he said. Shafi’u stitution, outlawed political parties and imposed Boko Haram Islamist camps. Nigeria Breima, a resident of Gomboru Ngala said launched a massive offensive against that the border town is receiving a contin- censorship on TV and radio in what it called a Boko Haram this week, deploying several uous flow of people arriving from Marte “process of national reorganization.” It also sent thousand troops across three states where and neighboring areas. The phone net- police and soldiers against leftist guerrillas, a President Goodluck Jonathan declared a work in Borno state has all but collapsed crackdown that quickly broadened to include state of emergency after the Islamists since the emergency measures were relatives, labor organizers, politicians, clergy, stu- seized territory and chased out the gov- imposed but residents in Gomboru Ngala dents, journalists, artists and intellectuals. ernment. use phone services from Cameroon and The regime’s trademark became the Dozens of insurgents have been killed have been sporadically reachable. unmarked Ford Falcon sedans that agents used in the fighting, the military has said, with- The remote, thinly populated region to drive their captives to some 500 detention out offering a specific figure. A security has porous borders where criminal groups centers. Victims included French nuns Alice source who requested anonymity said and weapons have flowed freely for years. Domon and Leonie Duquet, Catholic bishop that a helicopter was hit by Boko Haram The military has sealed previously Enrique Angelelli, Swedish student Dagmar gunfire, but “managed to rush back to unguarded crossings to block Boko Haram Hagelin, the union leadership at Ford and base without sustaining any casualty.” fighters from fleeing during the offensive. Mercedes Benz, and even members of Nigeria’s offensive is targeting all three “Border posts have all been manned by Argentina’s diplomatic corps. Argentina’s dicta- states put under emergency decree, security agents to prevent escape or infil- tors joined like-minded juntas in Chile, Brazil, including Adamawa and Yobe, but the trations by insurgents,” a military state- Bolivia, Uruguay and Paraguay under “Operation Boko Haram’s traditional base of Borno is ment said. Reports of Boko Haram’s pres- Condor,” sharing intelligence and helping cap- expected to see the most intense fighting. ence in Cameroon first emerged in ture each other’s political enemies. In Marte district of Borno state, some February, following the kidnap there of a Videla was known for delivering strident residents have started fleeing east French family visiting a game park near speeches, but always seemed uncomfortable in towards the Cameroon border, less than the Nigerian border. public, wringing his hands as a nervous tick 25 kilometers away. “It has been scary in The abduction was claimed by Boko played across his cheeks. Although aligned with the past three days,” said Buba Yawuri, Haram and the family was released in whose home is in the town of Kwalaram in April. The latest military campaign could the United States, Videla clashed with US presi- Marte but who has fled to the border prove to be the biggest ever against Boko dent Jimmy Carter over the regime’s human town Gomboru Ngala. “Fighter jets and Haram and is believed to be the first time rights abuses and for refusing to join a US- helicopters kept hovering in the sky and Nigeria has carried out air strikes within its backed grain embargo against the Soviet Union. we kept hearing huge explosions from own territory in more than 25 years. Aerial In 1981, Videla handed over power to General afar,” he said. support was believed to have been used Roberto Viola to begin the slow transition to He said that as the air assaults began, against rioters in the north in the early BUENOS AIRES: Former Argentine dictator Jorge Videla (center) is escorted by police into the democracy. The junta lasted until 1983, one year the security forces told all residents to stay 1980s. —AFP San Isidro court building in Buenos Aires in this file photo. Jorge Rafael Videla passed away in after a failed invasion of the Falkland Islands in a Argentina on May 17, 2013 at the age of 87. — AFP humiliating defeat by British forces. — AFP SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 INTERNATIONAL

Obama agenda seems to be weathering controversies

WASHINGTON: Despite Democratic House needs to deal with this,” said House ment since 2011, have receded as pro- Gina McCarthy’s nomination to head the from the Republican-controlled House. fears, predictions of the demise of Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, who is not jected deficits fall in the wake of an Environmental Protection Agency is also “Well, the last two years there was noth- President Barack Obama’s agenda appear directly involved in the talks. The presi- improving economy and recently enact- on hold, at least temporarily, and ing that went through this Congress, and exaggerated after a week of cascading dent’s nominee to become energy secre- ed spending cuts and tax increases. Democrats expect Republican opposi- it was no AP, IRS or any other (thing) that controversies, political triage by the tary, Ernest Moniz, won Senate confirma- Even before Obama began grappling tion awaits Penny Pritzger, Obama’s we were dealing with.” administration and party leaders in tion, 97-0. And there were signs that with the IRS, the fallout from last year’s choice for commerce secretary. “They just want to do nothing. And Congress and lack of evidence to date of Republicans might allow confirmation of deadly attack on the US diplomatic mis- Rhetorically, the two parties fell into two their timetable is never,” she said of GOP wrongdoing close to the Oval Office. Sri Srinivasan to the US Court of Appeals sion in Benghazi, Libya, and from the camps when it came to the White House lawmakers. Similarly, Senate Majority “Absolutely not,” Steven Miller, the recent- for the District of Columbia Circuit, some- Justice Department’s secret seizure of troubles. Democrats tended to describe Leader Harry Reid gave no ground on ly resigned acting head of the Internal times a stepping stone to the Supreme Associated Press phone records, the two them as controversies, Republicans often Benghazi, a dispute that increasingly Revenue Service, responded Friday when Court. parties were at odds over steps to replace used less flattering terms. centered on talking points written for asked if he had any contact with the Separately, a House committee $85 billion in across-the-board spending Speaking on the Senate floor, Sen administration officials to use on televi- White House about targeting conserva- approved legislation to prevent a spike in cuts. In particular, Obama’s call for higher Roger Wicker, R-Miss., accused the sion after the attack last September in tive groups seeking tax-exempt status for interest rates on student loans on July 1. taxes is a nonstarter with Republicans. administration of fostering a “culture of which US Ambassador Chris Stevens and special treatment. It moves in the direction of a White Other high-profile legislation and presi- intimidation.” He referred to the IRS, the three other Americans were killed. “It’s The president’s re-election campaign?” House-backed proposal for future rate dential appointees face difficulties that handling of the Benghazi attack and obvious it’s an attempt to embarrass persisted Rep Devin Nunes, R-Calif. “No,” changes to be based on private markets. predate the current controversies. Health and Human Services Secretary President Obama and embarrass Hillary said Miller. The hearing took place at the Even so, Rep Fred Upton, R-Mich, chair- Months ago, Obama scaled back Kathleen Sebelius’ “fundraising among Clinton,” he said of Republican criticism end of a week in which Republicans man of the Energy and Commerce requested gun safety legislation to center the industry people she regulates on that first flared during last year’s election repeatedly assailed Obama and were Committee, said, “It’s been a bad week for on expanded background checks for behalf of the president’s health care law.” campaign. On a third front, Sen Chuck attacked by Democrats in turn - yet the administration.” Several Democratic firearms purchasers. That was derailed in Two days later, Camp, a 23-year veteran Schumer, D-NY, resurrected legislation sweeping immigration legislation lawmakers and aides agreed, and the Senate, has even less chance in the lawmaker, opened the IRS hearing by that would requiring a judge to approve advanced methodically toward bipartisan expressed concern about the impact on House and is unlikely to reach the presi- calling the agency’s actions part of a “cul- subpoenas for news media communica- approval in the Senate Judiciary Obama’s agenda - even though much of dent’s desk. Republicans oppose other ture of cover-ups and intimidation in this tions records when investigating news Committee. The measure “has strong sup- it has been stymied by Republicans for recommendations from the president’s administration.” He offered no other leaks said to threaten the national securi- port of its own in the Senate,” said Sen months already. State of the Union address, including examples. ty. It was a response to the FBI’s secret, Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., a member of At the same time, Rep Dave Camp, R- automatic increases in the minimum Rep Trey Radel, a first-term Florida successful pursuit of Associated Press the panel. Mich, voiced optimism that the IRS con- wage, a pre-kindergarten program fund- Republican, said in an interview, “What phone records in a current probe. While Across the Capitol, a bipartisan House troversy would boost the push for an ed by higher cigarette taxes and more we’re looking at now is a breach of trust” Democrats counterattacked on Benghazi group reported agreement in principle overhaul of the tax code, rather than federal money for highways and bridge from the White House. House and parried on leaks, they bashed the IRS’ toward a compromise on the issue, which derail it. “It may make a case for a simpler repair. In a clash that long predates the Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi of treatment of conservative groups as looms as Obama’s best chance for a sig- tax code, where the IRS has less discre- IRS controversy, Senate Republicans California offered a scathing response improper if not illegal - and warned nature second-term domestic achieve- tion,” he said. Long-term budget issues, seem intent on blocking Obama’s nomi- when asked if the controversies would Republicans not to overplay their ment. “I continue to believe that the the main flash point of divided govern- nation of Tom Perez as labor secretary. hamper Obama’s ability to win legislation hand.— AP 60 injured in Connecticut commuter train collision Probe into cause of derailment FAIRFIELD: A commuter train trav- eling eastbound from New York City derailed near the Connecticut suburb of Fairfield during the evening rush hour on Friday and collided with a westbound com- muter train, injuring up to 60 peo- ple, three critically, officials said. The collision of the two Metro North trains forced Amtrak to shut down service indefinitely between New York and Boston, the national railroad said. Three people were critically injured and 60 people were transported to area hospitals, police said. “It’s pretty devastating damage to a number of cars,” Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy told a news conference. “These cars came into contact (and the impact) ripped open the siding of one of GUADALAJARA: Members of Les Souffleurs Poetic Commandos group (right) whisper the cars. There is extensive damage poems to people during a performance at the “Corona” market in Guadalajara, in the front and the wheels.” The Mexico. Les Souffleurs arrived in Guadalajara to participate in a cultural festival in accident occurred shortly after 6 which France is the guest of honour. — AFP pm EDT (2200 GMT), authorities said. “All of a sudden the train start- FAIRFIELD: Injured passengers are removed from the scene of a train collision, Friday, May 17, 2013 in Mexico violence claims ed to shake a little bit... like some- Fairfield, Conn. — AP thing was bumping into it,” passen- “The head end of both trains, the Thirty-three people were trans- National Transportation Safety hundreds of US lives ger Rowana Shepherd told CBS tel- front end of both trains, collided ported to St Vincent’s Medical Board said it was sending a team of evision. “One entire compartment and received sustained damage. Center and 27 to Bridgeport investigators to Connecticut to look MEXICO CITY: When Malcolm X’s grand- Adrian Ramirez, spokesman for the state from the other train was complete- But it was not a full head-on colli- Hospital, police said. Bridgeport into the accident. son was beaten to death in a seedy prosecutor’s office said. ly ripped open. The whole side was sion,” Donovan said. Hospital had two patients with criti- Malloy said the collision would Mexico City bar last week his name Two brothers who were found shot gone and people were lying in Metro North is a commuter rail- cal injuries, and the others could be have a big impact on the vital rail joined the hundreds of US citizens who dead in a house in the border city of between the trains.” road serving the northern suburbs described as “walking wounded” corridor between Boston and New have been murdered in this country in Mexicali had been using their dual citi- The eastbound train was headed of New York City. It is operated by with a variety of lesser injuries, York City for days. The Westport and to New Haven, Connecticut, when the MTA, a New York State agency. spokeswoman Anita Shrum said. Fairfield stations will be closed to recent years. Excluding terror attacks zenship to smuggle US firearms into it derailed and collided with the Fairfield is about 50 miles (80 km) One person had serious head commuter rail and Amtrak service and US soldiers killed in action, Mexico Mexico and bring drugs north of the westbound train that was running north of New York City. The number and neck injuries at St Vincent’s at least through the weekend as has seen more homicides of Americans border, Ramirez said. The cities that to New York’s Grand Central of injured could rise because hospi- Medical Center in Bridgeport and workers repair the damage and than any other part of the world in the have recorded the most homicides of Station, said Aaron Donovan, a tal officials were told to prepare to the others had minor injuries, investigators probe the derailment, past decade, according to an AFP analy- Americans lie in border regions where spokesman for the Metropolitan receive up to 180 patients total. spokeswoman Dianne Auger said. he said, adding that there was no sis of US State Department figures. drug cartels battle for control of lucra- Transportation Authority (MTA), Metro North trains can carry up to The cause of the derailment was reason to believe that it was any- At least 648 American citizens were tive narco-trafficking routes to the which runs the commuter railroad. 300 passengers when full. not immediately known. The thing but an accident. — Reuters murdered in Mexico between October United States. The State Department 2002 and December 2012 - the latest has a travel warning against visiting available data-representing more than most border states. 40 percent of the almost 1,600 victims The homicides of US citizens also US war hero ‘Stonewall’ Jackson still venerated worldwide over the same period. The mirrored the rise in drug-related vio- GUINEA STATION: It has been 150 years since interest. Pilgrims brought roses and small recover, but he died of pneumonia on May 10 in closest country in terms of body count lence in Mexico over the past six years. Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson died, and visitors Confederate flags to the Chancellorsville battle- a simple wood building now preserved as a is the Philippines, with 84 homicides, Of the 648 murders of Americans in the are still bringing flowers-and lemons-to shrines field, 60 miles southeast of the US capital, on museum. followed by Honduras and the past decade, 511 occurred between that honor the memory of the Confederate army May 2 - the day that Jackson was shot there 150 Jackson was born in 1824 in the backwoods Dominican Republic with 77 each. 2006 and 2012. They rose steadily from general. Jackson was one of the most successful years ago. of what is now West Virginia. Orphaned at a There were also many more citizens 33 in 2007 to a peak of 113 in 2011, generals in the 1861-1865 US civil war, and He had just led a daring flank attack through young age, he had little formal education, but of the United States murdered in before dropping to 71 last year. Tijuana according to legend he sucked on lemons as he thick woods on a much larger Union force and with luck and determination managed to enter Mexico than were killed in “terrorist saw the most homicides of US citizens entered battle. was scouting ahead of his lines after sundown. the West Point military academy. The dour action” around the world, with 300 in the past 10 years, with 130 deaths “Jackson is a hero to some, but strange Confederate soldiers opened fire when they mis- Jackson preferred study over socializing, and deaths listed in that category since reported in the city that lies just across enough to appeal to a lot of people,” said Beth took him and his entourage for the enemy. The made few friends. Years later he faced many of October 2002. Malcolm Shabazz, the 29- the border from San Diego, California, Parnicza, park historian at the Stonewall Jackson battle was a stunning Confederate victory. those schoolmates on the battlefield as enemies. year-old grandson of civil rights leader and was once a popular tourist draw. Shrine at Guinea Station, situated 70 miles Jackson survived the shooting, though doctors After service in the 1846-1848 war with Mexico, Malcolm X, was found lying on the Ciudad Juarez, once the world’s murder southeast of Washington. As Americans flock to amputated an arm. “He has lost his left arm, but I Jackson joined the Virginia Military Institute in street in front of The Palace Club on May capital, recorded 120 deaths and Nuevo battlefields and museums to mark the sesqui- have lost my right arm,” said his commander, Lexington in 1851 to teach artillery tactics. 9, with fatal blows to the head after he Laredo reported 42. “If you look at how centennial of the seminal conflict, Jackson’s life Robert E Lee. Medics took Jackson to Guinea The future military hero was considered an contested a $1,200 bar bill. Two waiters the drug war erupted and where it’s and accidental shooting has attracted renewed Station, at the time a busy supply depot, to oddball. He’d sometimes raise one arm to com- were arrested this week on murder been the hottest in the past six years, pensate for a supposed body imbalance, eat charges. Mexico has more American vis- your top three cities reflect that,” Scott stale bread to manage his stomach dyspepsia, itors than any other nation-more than Stewart, a former State Department and wore wet bandages believing it was a cure 20 million traveled to the southern special agent said. In Ciudad Juarez, for for most illnesses. At VMI he earned a reputation as a martinet, and his students nicknamed him neighbor last year, according to US gov- instance, the Los Aztecas gang is allied “Tom Fool.” Deeply religious, he also avoided ernment figures. And one million reside with the Barrio Azteca group that oper- alcohol, was honest to a fault, and was tender to in this country. While Americans have ates across the border in the Texan city young children. been killed in random criminal acts such of El Paso. “You have American gang- In 1861 the southern states, fearing the as robberies, some have been caught in sters working with Mexican gangsters recently-elected Abraham Lincoln would end the crossfire of Mexico’s raging drug hand in glove there,” said Stewart, a lead slavery, began to form the Confederate States of war, which has left more than 70,000 analyst at US-based intelligence consul- America. Slavery was essential to the south’s people dead since 2006. In one of the tancy Stratfor. agricultural economy and southerners vowed to most high profile cases, US Immigration But a State Department official cau- resist any threat to their “peculiar institution.” and Customs Enforcement agent Jaime tioned against “drawing too many con- When Virginia seceded and war broke out, Zapata was killed when suspected Zetas clusions” from the database, noting that Jackson joined the rebel army. Jackson earned drug cartel members shot at his car in it was not a statistically complete the “Stonewall” sobriquet for his steady role in the central state of San Luis Potosi in account of US citizen deaths as not all the Confederate victory at Manassas in July 1861. February 2011. are necessarily reported to consulates. In the next two years he proved to be an aggres- And in September 2010, cartel gun- The US official, who requested anonymi- sive warrior, key to pivotal rebel victories. men fatally shot David Hartley, 37, as he ty, declined to speculate as to why “The doings of this officer are too vividly jet-skied with his wife, Tiffany, on a lake Mexico leads the list. The database impressed upon the public mind... to particular- straddling the Texas-Tamaulipas border. shows just the date, location and type ize his thousand and one deeds of daring, all of But some of the dead have included of death. which ... were strongly marked by dash, energy, Mexicans with dual citizenship linked to Overall, 8,392 Americans were and skill,” read a December 1862 profile of Jackson in the Illustrated London News. Jackson gangs. Last year, a dozen US citizens reported dead worldwide in categories was “humorless, socially awkward, a control were killed in the state of Baja California ranging from road accidents to suicide, freak, autocratic, rude, secretive and discouraged and several held Mexican nationality, drowning and “terrorist action” since initiative,” said historian Frank O’Reilly, a civil war according to prosecutors. “These deaths October 2002. Mexico accounted for This lithograph dated circa 1890, shows Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson expert at the Chancellorsville battlefield. “And are linked to organized crime,” Victor 2,344 of all deaths, or 28 percent.—AFP who rallied Confederate soldiers to victory in the US Civil War’s First Battle of Bull Run.— AFP yet, he was adored by his men.” —AFP SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 INTERNATIONAL Groups stay divided on B’desh safety overhauls

NEW YORK: The nation’s largest retail retail and apparel groups to develop an would be required to pay up to $500,000 retailers and US merchants on how to plan was a “one-size-fits-all” approach industry organization fired back Friday, alternative broader proposal that would annually to run the program. They would best resolve the issue of making clothing promoted by special interests. It also said outlining reasons why a legally binding go beyond Bangladesh. also be required to underwrite repairs to factories safer in Bangladesh comes as the global agreement seeks major fund- global pact to make Bangladesh clothing More than 30 international brands, make the factories they use safe. A board public pressure builds following a build- ing by private businesses without pro- factories safer would expose merchants including Swedish retailer H&M, Italian made up of labor and retail representa- ing collapse on April 24 that killed more viding accountability for how the money to undue legal exposure. The move came clothing maker Benetton, and French tives would oversee dispute resolutions than 1,110 workers there. The tragedy, is spent. as US retailers face increasing pressure retailer Carrefour, have signed on to the that would be enforceable in the courts the deadliest incident in the history of On Friday, the retail trade group made from a large coalition of religious groups 5-year, legally binding contract that of the country where the company is the garment industry, came just months available for the media an international and investors to work together to devel- requires them to help pay for fire safety based. Based on the number of compa- after a fire in another garment factory in labor lawyer who rebuked the global op a plan. “It is a very complex set of and building improvements in nies now participating, the plan will cov- Bangladesh in November killed 112 pact and said that it is too vague for issues and there is no simple solution,” Bangladesh. But only two US companies er more than 1,000 of the 5,000 garment workers. retailers to sign. At the heart of the criti- said Bill Thorne, a spokesman for the have committed so far: PVH Corp, the factories in Bangladesh, according to On Wednesday, as more European cism: the contract would expose retail- retail trade group, in a media call with New York-based parent company of IndustriALL Global Union, a Geneva retailers were signing on to meet a dead- ers to legal liability for the failure of fac- reporters Friday. “There is not one Tommy Hilfiger, and Abercrombie & Fitch based-labor union that was involved in line that evening, the National Retail tories to comply with the set standards answer.” The National Retail Federation is of New Albany, Ohio. the negotiations. Federation, which has 9,000 members, even though merchants don’t own the leading a coalition of North American As part of the global pact, companies The widening divide among foreign issued a scathing statement, saying the facilities. —AP Afghan lawmakers block law on women’s rights Bill will encourage disobedience among women: Lawmaker

KABUL: Conservative religious law- makes domestic violence a crime makers in Afghanistan blocked legis- punishable by up to three years in lation yesterday aimed at strength- prison and specifies that rape victims ening provisions for women’s free- should not face criminal charges for doms, arguing that parts of it violate fornication or adultery. Kofi, who Islamic principles and encourage dis- plans to run for president in next obedience. The fierce opposition year’s elections, said she was disap- highlights how tenuous women’s pointed because among those who rights remain a dozen years after the oppose upgrading the law from ouster of the hard-line Taleban presidential decree to legislation regime, whose strict interpretation passed by parliament are women. NEW DELHI: Indian workers tie Indian and Chinese national flags onto poles in front of Islam once kept Afghan women Afghanistan’s parliament has of The Indian Secretariat yesterday. — AFP virtual prisoners in their homes. more than 60 female lawmakers, Khalil Ahmad Shaheedzada, a mostly due to constitutional provi- conservative lawmaker for Herat sions reserving certain seats for All issues ‘on the table’ province, said the legislation was women. There has been spotty withdrawn shortly after being intro- enforcement of the law as it stands. on China PM’s visit: India duced in parliament because of an A United Nations analysis in late uproar by religious parties who said 2011 found only a small percentage NEW DELHI: India says all issues will be “on bours has never been formally demarcated parts of the law are un-Islamic. of reported crimes against women the table”, including a recent border spat although they have signed accords to “Whatever is against Islamic law, we were pursued by the Afghan govern- KABUL: In this photo, an Afghan woman peers through the eye slit of and a festering trade imbalance, during maintain peace in the Himalayan area. don’t even need to speak about it,” ment. Between March 2010 and her burqa. — AP Chinese Premier Li Keqiang’s visit to the The world’s two most populous coun- Shaheedzada said. March 2011 - the first full Afghan South Asian giant which starts today. At the tries have in recent years seen ties improve The Law on Elimination of year the decree was in effect - prose- the knowledge they could claim imposed a strict interpretation of same time New Delhi thinks “very highly” of and trade boom, and both sides sought to Violence Against Women has been in cutors filed criminal charges in only rape if caught. Islam that put severe curbs on the Li’s decision to make India his first overseas stay low-key over the latest row. Beijing effect since 2009, but only by presi- 155 cases, or 7 percent of the total Lawmaker Shaheedzada also freedom of women. For five years, stop since taking charge as premier, Indian said Chinese troops “never trespassed the dential decree. It is being brought number of crimes reported. claimed that the law might encour- the regime banned women from foreign ministry spokesman Syed line”. Separately, sources said yesterday that before parliament now because law- The child marriage ban and the age disobedience among girls and working and going to school, or Akbaruddin said yesterday. India would push for efforts to avoid such maker Fawzia Kofi, a women’s rights idea of protecting female rape vic- women, saying it reflected Western even leaving home without a male After arriving just after midday (0950 alleged occurrences in future, according to activist, wants to cement it with a tims from prosecution were particu- values not applicable in Afghanistan. relative. GMT) today, Li will hold talks with Prime the Press Trust of India. parliamentary vote to prevent its larly heated subjects in yesterday’s “Even now in Afghanistan, women In public, all women were forced Minister Manmohan Singh and later will be On Monday, the two leaders, accompa- potential reversal by any future pres- parliamentary debate, said are running from their husbands. wear a head-to-toe burqa, which a guest at a dinner hosted by the Indian nied by high-level delegations, will hold ident who might be tempted to Nasirullah Sadiqizada Neli, a conser- Girls are running from home,” covers even the face with a mesh leader at his residence, officials said. Such wide-ranging talks on key international, repeal it to satisfy hard-line religious vative lawmaker from Daykundi Shaheedzada said. “Such laws give panel. Violators were publicly high-level exchanges are aimed at “enhanc- regional and bilateral issues. On the eco- parties. province. Neli suggested that remov- them these ideas.” Freedoms for flogged or executed. Since the US- ing trust”, Akbaruddin added. Ties between nomic front, Bambawale said India will The law criminalizes, among oth- ing the custom - common in women are one of the most visible - led invasion in 2001, women’s free- the neighbours have been dogged by press for more trade access to China. In er things, child marriage and forced Afghanistan - of prosecuting raped and symbolic - changes in doms have improved vastly, but mutual suspicion that lingers long after a 2012, bilateral trade was $66.5 billion-down marriage, and bans “baad,” the tradi- women for adultery would lead to Afghanistan since the 2001 US-led Afghanistan remains a deeply con- 1962 border war high in the Himalayas. from $74 billion in 2011 and a setback to tional practice of selling and buying social chaos, with women freely campaign that toppled the Taleban servative culture, especially in rural India’s joint foreign secretary for East the neighbours achieving their $100-billion women to settle disputes. It also engaging in extramarital sex safe in regime. While in power, the Taleban areas. — AFP Asia, Gautam Bambawale, said “everything goal by 2015. India also faces an increasing is on the table” for discussion, including the trade deficit with China that totaled $29 bil- border dispute and improving the nations’ lion in 2012, according to Chinese figures. In trade balance, which is tilted heavily in addition, New Delhi will seek assurances Beijing’s favour. “The two prime ministers that a Chinese plan to build three more It’s OK for women to will talk about these subjects,” Bambawale hydropower dams across the mighty cross- said. The border dispute with New Delhi border Brahmaputra river-known in China cry at work: Sandberg flared last month into a three-week stand- as the Yarlung Tsangpo-will not affect India’s off after India alleged that Chinese troops downstream water flow. After New Delhi, Li NEW DELHI: Facebook chief operating offi- Studies have shown women are more intruded nearly 20 kilometres (12 miles) will travel Tuesday to Indian financial hub cer Sheryl Sandberg said in an interview prone than men to cry at work because into Indian-claimed territory, highlighting Mumbai and then to Pakistan, Switzerland published yesterday says it’s ok for women males are schooled not to cry in public and longstanding tensions. The Line of Actual and Germany as Beijing seeks to address to cry at work, share emotions and be hon- it can hurt their career progression. Control between the nuclear-armed neigh- security and economic disputes. — AFP est about their femininity. Sandberg shot to Sandberg, who is married with two young global fame after her the publication of her children, said on the subject of her book best-selling book “Lean In: Women, Work “the messages of believing in yourself and KANDAHAR: A bereaved Afghan cries after he and the Will to Lead” which talks about sitting at the table, getting compensated Lanka Tamils defy ban learns of the death of a relative in a hospital in women’s career struggles and advises fairly, those can happen at any point in Kandahar late May 17, 2013, after twin suicide women to “lean in” to reach their potential. your career.” COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s main opposition would be jailed. Witnesses said the TNA-led bomb attacks. — AFP It has drawn bouquets from admirers for It is necessary to talk about gender-relat- Tamil party yesterday defied a military ban ceremony ended peacefully amid a heavy articulating a new modern feminist vision ed issues honestly in the workplace, and a and staged a commemoration of their war police presence in the area, a front-line and brickbats from critics who say her lofty need for employers to say: “I am here to sup- dead as the government celebrated the town near the former war zone in the Bombs kill 9 inside position has made her out-of-touch with port you”, she added in the interview. The fourth anniversary of defeating Tamil Tiger island’s north. the gruelling personal cost of combining question of whether women can “have it all” rebels. The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) In the capital Colombo, President Afghan complex career and family. In an interview with in terms of pursuing careers and raising fam- said it staged the remembrance in the Mahinda Rajapakse viewed the military India’s Mint business daily, the 43-year-old ilies is “very problematic”, added Sandberg, northern town of Vavuniya for those who parade showcasing heavy weapons used KABUL: Two bombs hidden in a motorcycle and a car admitted: who got $26.2 million in salary, bonus and died in the final battle which also killed against the Tigers who were known for exploded inside an elite gated community linked to “I cry at work,” adding women are not shares last year from the US social network- Tamil Tiger leader Velupillai Prabhakaran their ferocious suicide bomb attacks. “We the family of Afghan President Hamid Karzai on Friday “one type of person Monday through ing giant. Men never face such questions and his entire top leadership. will not allow a single inch of the land that evening, killing at least nine people and wounding Friday” and “then a different person in the because society assumes they can have “We had a meeting to commemorate all you won by the sacrifice of your life to be more than 70 near the southern city of Kandahar, an nights and weekend.” “I think we are all of both professions and children, she said in those who died in the conflict,” TNA law- taken away,” Rajapakse said. “There will be official said. The blasts happened inside Aino Mina, a us emotional beings and it’s okay for us to the interview. A huge percentage of women maker Suresh Premachandran told AFP no room for separation.” housing complex on the northern outskirts of the city share that emotion at work,” said globally have both children and work full- from Vavuniya, 260 kilometres (162 miles) A naval craft taking part in the celebra- that was developed in part by Mahmood Karzai, the Facebook’s number two, who was named time, but to do so they must get the “sup- north of Colombo. The event came as Sri tions capsized and a search was on for an president’s younger brother. in Time magazine’s 2013 list as one of the port they need at the workplace and at Lankan troops held a parades in the capital officer who was reported missing after the No one immediately claimed responsibility for the 100 most influential people in the world. home,” Sandberg said. — AFP to mark the victory over Tamil Tiger rebels accident, a military official said, adding that attack, but striking inside a powerful symbol of and an end to 37 years of ethnic blood- the other four crew members had been res- wealth and influence would be a publicity coup for shed. cued. The military offensive which crushed the Taleban insurgency. Both the car bomb and the The state-run Daily News said the the Tigers had triggered allegations of war motorcycle were remotely detonated within minutes Vavuniya meeting was illegal and warned crimes with rights groups saying that up to of each other while parked next to a restaurant area anyone commemorating the defeated 40,000 civilians perished in the last months where families were dining, Kandahar government Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) of fighting alone. — AFP spokesman Javeed Faisal said. He had earlier said there was only one blast. Three police were among the dead, Faisal said, adding that an investigation is underway into how the explosives-laden vehicle slipped past the commu- nity’s heavy security. Many of the dozens of wounded brought to Mirwais Hospital in Kandahar were in criti- cal condition, Dr. Samad Ahmadi said. Aino Mina is home to thousands of Afghan government officials, businessmen and other wealthy citizens who pay some $90,000 for a three-bedroom house on grounds featuring parks, a jogging track, a football field and its own mosque. Residents have special identification badges, and cars are typically searched before enter- ing the gates. Mahmood Karzai was one of the main investors into the project, promoted as a triumph of modernity in Kandahar, which is the spiritual birthplace of the Taleban insurgency. The Taleban imposed a harsh interpretation of Islamic law when it led Afghanistan for five years, before they were ousted in the US-led invasion that followed the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the US by Al-Qaeda, which was based in the country at the time. The Karzai clan itself is from Kandahar and another brother of the president, Ahmed Wali Karzai, was a powerful political figure there before being gunned AMRITSAR: Indian disabled youth Vishal is seen holding a puppy while sitting in his down in 2011 by a bodyguard. President Karzai’s hand-cranked tricycle as he receives a cup of water yesterday. Vishal earns some 100 office quickly condemned the attack, noting it was rupees ($1.83) a day by begging. Data released in 2012 from the Planning the second terrorist strike in a residential area in two Commission, an influential government body that formulates national five-year eco- COLOMBO: A Sri Lankan Air Force paratrooper performs during the victory Day days. —AFP nomic plans, suggested overall poverty levels in India fell from 37.2 percent in 2004- parade yesterday. — AFP 05 to 29.8 percent in 2009-10. — AFP SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 INTERNATIONAL Aide to Japanese PM returns from N Korea

TOKYO: An aide to the Japanese pre- back to Chief Cabinet Secretary Pyongyang, while the United States trips to Pyongyang in 2002 and 2004 the North is still holding some and mier returned home from a controver- Yoshihide Suga at a Tokyo hotel - that expressed its surprise. The US, along for talks with then-North Korean Pyongyang’s perceived refusal to sial trip to North Korea yesterday, he demanded Pyongyang come clean with its two Asian allies, has increased leader Kim Jong-Il. come clean has derailed efforts to reportedly saying he had demanded on the truth about the abduction, and pressure on Pyongyang to drop its Abe accompanied Koizumi on the normalise ties. Abe told reporters yes- Pyongyang’s act swiftly on its kidnap- for it to hand over those responsible nuclear ambitions and to join the 2002 visit. When Koizumi visited terday “the abduction issue is what ping of Japanese nationals. Isao Iijima, for the kidnappings, Jiji said. Iijima’s international community. Pyongyang in 2002, North Korea has to be resolved under the Abe a senior adviser to Prime Minister trip fuelled speculation that the North The North’s state media this week admitted its agents kidnapped administration. My mission won’t be Shinzo Abe, said he told senior North may be trying to thaw icy relations showed footage of Iijima holding talks Japanese nationals in the 1970s and completed unless all the victims Korean officials that Tokyo wanted with Japan at a time when ties with on Thursday with Kim Yong-Nam, 1980s to train spies in Japanese lan- return to their families who would Japanese civilians kidnapped by the United States and South Korea North’s Korea’s ceremonial head of guage and customs. Some of those give them big hugs,” Jiji Press said. North Korean agents in the 1970s and have gone into deep freeze after state, according to NHK and other snatched were allowed to return to North Korea yesterday launched three 80s to be immediately returned, nuclear and missile tests. Japanese media. Iijima was a senior Japan along with children who were short-range missiles into the Sea of according to Jiji Press, without citing South Korea dubbed the trip aide to Japan’s former prime minister born in the North, but Pyongyang Japan, apparently as part of a military sources. “unhelpful” to international efforts to Junichiro Koizumi, and is known to said the rest of them had died. drill, South Korea’s defence ministry Iijima also said - when reporting forge a united front against have played a role in organising his However, many in Japan believe said. — AFP

News Philippines rubbishes in brief

3 new suicides at Taiwan ‘murder’ claims Foxconn factory BEIJING: Three Foxconn workers have committed suicide at a factory in China in the past three weeks, Manila insists forces fired in self-defence a labour rights group said yesterday. All three jumped to their deaths at a plant in the central city MANILA: The Philippines yesterday reject- the Philippines and Taiwan”. of Zhengzhou run by the Taiwanese electronics ed Taiwan’s allegations that Filipino coast- Chen’s comments echoed those made giant.A 30-year-old married man killed himself on guards had intentionally murdered a by Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou in Taipei Tuesday following the similar deaths of a 23-year-old Taiwanese fisherman whose death has trig- on Friday. “If (Philippine) civil servants used woman on April 27 and a 24-year-old man three gered a major diplomatic spat. The 65- automatic weapons to fire at unarmed and days earlier, media reports said. “The reasons for year-old fisherman was shot dead by unprovocative fishing boats, this was not these building jumpings are unclear,” the New York- Philippine coastguards who said his vessel carrying out their job duties. This is cold- based China Labor Watch rights group said in a intruded into Philippine waters. Chen Wen- blooded murder,” Ma said. Aquino made a statement. Foxconn, which assembles products for chi, head of the Taiwan team investigating “personal” apology on Wednesday over the Apple, Sony and Nokia, has come under the spot- the May 9 incident, said most of the bullets “unintended” death arising from the light after suicides and labour unrest at its Chinese had hit the fishing boat’s cockpit where its patrol’s duty of protecting Philippine plants since 2010. In 2010, at least 13 Foxconn crew hid. waters against illegal fishing. employees in China died in apparent suicides, which “By combining the evidence, it clearly Manila insisted its forces fired in self- activists blamed on tough working conditions, shows that the Philippine law enforcers defence to disable the boat’s engine and prompting calls for better treatment of staff. were intentionally shooting the Guang Ta prevent it ramming the patrol craft. Taiwan Although Foxconn denied the accusations, it raised Hsin 28 crew members, which indicates has rejected the apology. It recalled its de wages by nearly 70 percent at its China plants in their intent of murder,” Chen told a news facto envoy, banned the hiring of new 2010.It has also taken steps such as improving work- conference in Manila. The shooting, which Philippine workers and staged a military ing conditions and enforcing age restrictions to Manila insists occurred inside Philippine drill in waters off the northern Philippines address concerns raised by an independent audit of territorial waters but which Taipei counters earlier this week. conditions mandated by Apple. Foxconn is the happened within its exclusive economic The Philippines officially recognises world’s largest maker of computer components and zone, has led to Taiwanese sanctions Beijing over Taipei but maintains trade ties employs up to 1.1 million workers in China. against its neighbour. with the island, which employs about Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and 87,000 Filipinos. Philippine Vice President Man arrested over President Benigno Aquino’s spokesman Jejomar Binay yesterday urged Taiwan to MANILA: Taiwan Ministry of Justice of Department of International and Cross-Strait plane bomb threats Ricky Carandang rejected the murder alle- ensure the safety of Filipino workers fol- Legal Affairs, Chen Wen-chi, (center) gestures during a press conference at the BEIJING: Chinese police have arrested a man who gations. “There is an investigation ongoing lowing reports of attacks by angry Taiwan Economic and Cultural office yesterday. —AFP allegedly made bomb threats which caused delays so any premature statements that tend to Taiwanese. “We heard and we read in the or diversions to Shanghai, news reports said yester- confuse the issues and inflame passions papers that they have been hit by bats and conflict,” he added. to act on these reports (of attacks),” Aquino day. Eleven flights were affected in total, though the should be avoided,” Carandang told AFP. four have been hospitalised,” Binay told Taiwanese media reported that a spokeswoman Abigail Valte said. Nearly 10 suspect is not alleged to be behind all the threats. De Lima in a separate statement also reporters, according to an official tran- Filipino was treated in hospital after being million Filipinos live or work abroad, and The planes were travelling from Beijing, Chongqing, urged everyone to refrain from making script released by his office. “We are attacked by a gang of youths. “We’ve seen the tens of billions of dollars in earnings Guangzhou and Shenzhen, the Beijing News report- statements “that would further fuel or appealing to the Taiwanese people to reports that their leaders have assured the that they send home every year help prop ed. One flight from Guangzhou on Friday had to be aggravate the prevailing tension between spare our overseas Filipino workers from safety of our people there. We expect them up the Philippine economy. — AFP diverted to Fuzhou following an anonymous call to the airports after takeoff. Passengers were evacuat- ed and the plane and baggage searched. In three of Myanmar prez frees political the 11 cases the planes had already arrived at their destination. The threats involved Air China, China prisoners ahead of US visit Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Sichuan Airlines and Spring Airlines. A suspect surnamed Ji YANGON: Myanmar’s president has par- One of those freed Friday was Nay was arrested and had confessed, Chinese civil avia- doned at least 20 political prisoners just Myo Zin, a former prisoner who had tion information site Carno.com said. His motive was ahead of a historic visit to the United been amnestied before but who was not known.Five flights operated by three Chinese States that will highlight the two sides’ recently ordered to serve the remainder airlines had already been hit by bomb threats on improved relations brought about by the of his original sentence after he was Wednesday, the official Xinhua news agency said. former pariah nation’s democratic arrested for participating in a farmers’ Two similar alerts had occurred in February and two in October, the Beijing News said. According to Wu reforms. State media reported yesterday protest against land confiscation. Nay Xiaojun, a magistrate in Beijing, these threats are that 23 prisoners were freed, though it Myo Zin, a former army captain, had most often impulsive acts by angry men in their did not call them political offenders. Ye been serving a 10-year sentence when twenties or thirties. Making false bomb threats in Aung, a member of the government’s he was amnestied in 2012. punishable by up 15 years in prison in serious cases. political prisoner scrutiny committee, Ye Aung, a former prisoner himself, said at least 20 political detainees were said many of those freed Friday had been China rains kill 55, freed Friday. identified by his committee as political leave 14 missing President Thein Sein will visit the detainees, and he looked forward to the BEIJING: Chinese authorities say rainstorms that White House tomorrow, the first state vis- release of all such prisoners. “According battered southern China this week have killed 55 it by a Myanmar leader in almost 47 to our list there are still 160 political pris- people and left 14 others missing. The Chinese years. The US applied sanctions against oners remaining in prison. We are still Ministry of Civil Affairs website says at least nine YANGON: In this photo, Tay Za (foreground left) attends an opening ceremony of a Myanmar’s previous military regime for scrutinizing the list and there could be provinces have had storms and some flooding and branch office of his bank. — AP its poor human rights record. Thein Sein more,” he said. The government had rou- landslides since Tuesday. It says Guangdong has implemented several reforms since tinely denied the existence of political province has been hit the hardest, with 36 deaths his election in 2010, including freeing prisoners, saying all people sentenced to and 10 missing people, followed by Jiangxi province, Myanmar sanctions hundreds of political prisoners. The US in jail had been convicted legitimately of where six people are reported dead and four more turn eased most sanctions. In November, breaking the nation’s laws. But Thein missing. Guangdong’s weather service forecasts more heavy rain along with thunder, strong wind Barack Obama became the first US presi- Sein’s administration recently conceded list languishes gusts and hail in the coming days and warns of dent to visit Myanmar. that there are political detainees, and flooding and mudslides. YANGON: If you’re American and want to on investment and trade with Myanmar. It It has become a pattern for prison formed the committee with government do business in Myanmar, there’s a list of still forbids imports of ruby and jade from amnesties to coincide with high-profile officials and former political prisoners to people and companies you have to steer Myanmar and doing business with military- international or regional meetings as a tally and report who remains impris- clear of by law. But it leaves off a former owned companies. But the restriction with way of highlighting the Myanmar gov- oned. — AP minister’s son US officials suspected of bro- the greatest impact for investors is against ernment’s benevolent policies. Thein Brit could face kering arms deals with North Korea, and dealings with individuals and companies Sein pardoned 93 prisoners, including at high-rolling relatives of the man who led on the Treasury Department’s Specially least 59 political detainees, in April, a day death in Indonesia the repressive military government for 19 Designated Nationals list, which identifies after the European Union lifted sanctions JAKARTA: A British woman could face the death penalty in years. The Obama administration didn’t add those linked to sanctioned governments, against the Southeast Asian nation. The anyone to the US government’s Myanmar terrorists and drug traffickers. Indonesia after being arrested for allegedly smuggling crystal release of political detainees in Myanmar methamphetamine into the country from China, an official sanctions list over 31/2 years, despite rec- The European Union lifted its sanctions has been a key concern of the United ommendations from the US Embassy in last month, although like the US, it retains said yesterday. The woman, identified only by her initials AR, States, and Washington wants all of the was arrested at a hotel in the city of Surabaya, East Java Yangon to blacklist hundreds of top offi- an arms embargo. That leaves America’s country’s political prisoners freed. cials and their business cronies, as well as sanctions list as the most important inter- province, last month with 1.47 kilograms (three pounds, four A group campaigning for democracy military and private companies, according national restriction on doing business in ounces) of the drug, the national narcotics agency said. to an Associated Press examination of hun- Myanmar. While not binding elsewhere, the in Myanmar - which is also known by its “Because she smuggled drugs weighing more than five dreds of pages of government documents, list affects government and business think- old name, Burma - accuses Thein Sein’s grams, she could face the death penalty,” agency spokesman and more than a dozen interviews with offi- ing as far afield as Singapore and London. government of using political prisoners Sumirat Dwiyanto told AFP. He declined to give further details cials and business leaders in Myanmar and Decades of quiet deal-making have nur- for public relations purposes. “Thein Sein about the woman, who is being held in Jakarta, or when she Washington. tured a small business elite that has profit- seems to have judged, sadly apparently was likely to be charged. A British embassy spokesman con- The reason: Washington was seeking to ed, sometimes brutally and most often dis- correctly, that the Obama administration firmed the news: “We are aware of the arrest of a British win the confidence of Myanmar’s top lead- honestly, from relationships with is particularly gullible and likely to national... We are providing consular assistance.” ership and encourage them to stick to the Myanmar’s military leaders and a flood of respond positively to this kind of manip- The case comes just months after British grandmother path of democratic reform. The result: The Chinese money. ulative use of political prisoner releases,” Lindsay Sandiford was sentenced to death for attempting to list is full of gaps. The administration has With little information available about Burma Campaign UK said in a statement. smuggle $2.4 million of cocaine into the resort island of Bali. said it wants US companies to set a “gold who owns what in Myanmar, it can be diffi- The group also expressed concern In the latest case, AR, who lives in China, admitted after her standard” for investment and foster a fairer, cult to determine whom a potential busi- that Thein Sein’s democratic reforms arrest on April 29, that a Nigerian had asked her to bring the more transparent way of doing business in ness partner is affiliated with. Americans were incomplete. “Thein Sein has also drugs to Indonesia, the agency said. The Nigerian was still at Myanmar. But the last powerful tool it has who violate the sanctions could face fines left almost every repressive law used to large, it added. The woman also identified two other people to punish the bad guys and encourage the or prison time, though a letter of warning is jail political prisoners in place,” the state- she had been planning to pass the drugs to in Surabaya and good ones has fallen way out of date, even more likely for those who acted in good ment said. “Almost all the releases of Jakarta, and they were also detained, the agency said. It did though legislation instructs the govern- faith. political prisoners have only been not say what their nationalities were. They are also being held ment to keep the list current. That risks “The list in no way lists all the individu- released conditionally, meaning that if in Jakarta. Foreigners are regularly charged with drugs reinforcing a corrupt economic system that als who would be objectionable to doing they engage in political activities which offences in Indonesia, which has some of the toughest anti- has concentrated wealth in the hands of business with. And there are individuals on the government does not like they can politically-connected businessmen. there for purely political and unvalidated narcotics laws in the world, but most are caught in Bali. Human rights activists accuse the reasons,” said Rachel Calvert at the consult- be put back in jail and have to serve a Sandiford, 56, was sentenced to death in January after Obama administration of moving too fast ing company IHS, who helps advise US new prison term and their old prison being caught with cocaine as she arrived at Bali airport, in a to reward the reformist government of companies on investing in Myanmar. U.S. term.” President’s office director Maj. Zaw shock verdict after prosecutors recommended 15 years in jail. Thein Sein, who on Monday will become companies, for example, are still free to Htay’s responded on his Facebook page She lost a first appeal against the sentence last month, and has the first president of Myanmar to visit the invest with the wife, eight children and to such criticism. He said Thein Sein YANGON: Hay Mar Lwin, a political pris- since lodged a last-ditch appeal to Indonesia’s top court. Death White House in 47 years - a trip during grandson of former military leader Than doesn’t use political prisoners as tools, oner who was released from Insein row convicts in Indonesia rarely manage to get their sentences which he’ll also woo US business leaders. Shwe - all of whom were sanctioned by the and that his interest is just to have an all- prison, shows her certificate of release to lifted. Most spend years in jail before being taken to an isolated The US has suspended broad restrictions European Union in the past.—AP inclusive process. journalists. — AP location at night and executed by firing squad. — AFP NEWS SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013

TRIPOLI: Libyan security forces and residents gather in a street housing the Algerian, Greek and Saudi embassies, where a bomb exploded yesterday in Tripoli, Libya. — AFP Bomb explodes near 3 embassies in Tripoli

TRIPOLI: A bomb exploded yester- causing extensive damage and ests in recent months. day in a Tripoli street housing the wounding two embassy guards and The latest bombings highlight Algerian, Greek and Saudi several local residents. Meanwhile a the inability of authorities to estab- Google’s wearable Glass gadget: cool... embassies, lightly damaging a car, pre-dawn drive-by bomb attack in lish effective security in Libya, which Continued from Page 1 In March, Seattle’s Five Point Cafe made headlines for hours after a soldier was wounded the eastern city of Benghazi yester- has been awash since the uprising becoming the first bar to ban Glass. “Respect our customers in a bombing in Libya’s second city day slightly wounded a soldier. with weapons used by former rebels evolved from personal computers. Apple and Samsung privacy as we’d expect them to respect yours,” says a state- Benghazi. A security source said the “A bomb was thrown from a car at and other groups who helped top- are said to be working on other forms of wearable technolo- ment on the café’s website. The California Highway Patrol says homemade bomb, locally known as an army checkpoint at the Dubail ple Gaddafi’s regime. The attacks, gy. The test version of Glass looks like a clear pair of eyeglasses there is no law that explicitly forbids a driver from wearing “gelatina”, had been placed near a crossroads in the centre of Benghazi,” which are not claimed, are usually with a hefty slab along the right side. Since it began shipping Glass while driving in the state. But according to Officer Elon car on a street in the central district a security official said, speaking on blamed on radical Islamists, such as to a couple thousand carefully selected early adopters who Steers, if a driver appears to be distracted as a result of the of Dahra where the three embassies condition of anonymity. “The attack the group which raided the US con- paid about $1,500 for the device, it has inspired a bit of device, an officer can take enforcement action. are located. was carried out at around 2 am,” the sulate in Benghazi last September ridicule - from a parody on “Saturday Night Live” to a popular The car, parked outside the Greek official said, adding that the identity 11 killing four Americans including blog poking fun at its users. PRIVACY TRACK RECORD embassy, was slightly damaged and of the assailants was not known. ambassador Chris Stevens. On Other industry experts take a more serious tack, pointing Lawmakers are beginning to consider Glass. On Thursday, there were no reports of casualties. Benghazi, cradle of the 2011 uprising Friday, a bomb apparently targeting out the potential for misuse because Glass can record video eight members of the US Congress sent a letter to Google On April 23, a car bomb detonated against former dictator Muammar troops guarding an empty Benghazi far less conspicuously than a handheld device. Glass also has Chief Executive Larry Page, asking for details about how Glass won many fans. Google and some early users maintain that handles various privacy issues, including whether it is capable outside the French embassy in the Gaddafi, has seen a spate of attacks school building caused damage but privacy fears are overblown. As with traditional video cam- of facial recognition. upmarket Gargaresh area of Tripoli, on security forces and Western inter- no casualties.— AFP eras, a tiny light blinks on to let people know when it is According to Google, there are no facial recognition tech- recording. nologies built into the device and it has no plans to do so Several Glass wearers at the developers conference said “unless we have strong privacy protections in place.” During Saudi woman climbs Everest they whip the device off in inappropriate situations, such as in one of this week’s conference sessions - an open discussion gym locker rooms or work meetings. Michael Evans, a Web about Glass - members of the Glass team answered a ques- KATMANDU: Mountaineering officials say 64 climbers, climbing all night from the highest camp on South Col. All developer from Washington, DC, attending the Google con- tion about privacy by noting that social implications and eti- including a Saudi Arabian woman, have successfully scaled were reported to be safe. Among them was Raha ference, said he removed his Glass when he went to the quette have been a big area of focus during the development movies, even though the device would be ill-suited for record- of the product, which is still a test version. Some of the Glass- Mount Everest from Nepal’s side of the mountain. Tilak Moharrak, who became the first Saudi Arabian woman to ing a feature-length film. “I just figured I don’t want to be the phobia may stem from Google’s own track record on privacy. Padney of Nepal’s Mountaineering Department says 35 for- scale the world’s highest peak. Everest can be climbed from first guy kicked out of the movies,” he said. In 2010, Google revealed that its fleet of Street View cars, eigners accompanied by 29 Nepalese Sherpa guides either Nepal or Tibet. May is the most popular month for which criss-cross the globe taking panoramic photos for the reached the 8,850-meter peak yesterday morning after Everest climbs because of more favorable weather. — AP NO GLASS ALLOWED Google Maps product, also had captured personal informa- A stamp-sized electronic screen mounted on the left side tion such as emails and web pages that were transmitted over of a pair of eyeglass frames, Glass can record video, access unencrypted home wireless networks. “The fact that it’s email, provide turn-by-turn driving directions and retrieve Google offering the service, as opposed to say Brookstone, US blasts Moscow over Syria weapons info from the Web by connecting wirelessly to a user’s cell raises privacy issues,” said Marc Rotenberg, the executive phone. Google Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt dismissed director of the Electronic Privacy Information Center, a non- Continued from Page 1 ed and kneeling Syrian soldiers. The video could not be independ- concerns about the brave new world of wearable computers profit privacy advocacy group, citing Google’s history and its ently verified. Following another of many Internet videos that during a talk at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of scale in Internet advertising. Wednesday to discuss how to approach a conference. But it is have caused concern over deepening communal hatreds, a rebel Government in April. Rotenberg says his main concern centers on the stream of also far from clear that Assad’s opponents can forge a united front commander who was filmed apparently cutting out and biting “Criticisms are inevitably from people who are afraid of data collected by the devices - everything from audio and or agree to meet the president’s representatives. into the heart or other organ of a dead solder made a statement change or who have not figured out that there will be an video to a user’s location data - going to Google’s data centers. After months of diplomatic stalemate, Washington and on Friday. “I am ready to be held accountable for my actions, on adaptation of society to it,” he said. Schmidt acknowledged Ryan Calo, a University of Washington law professor who spe- Moscow have been pushed to convene the conference by the ris- condition that Bashar and his shabbiha (militias) are tried for that there are certain places where Glass will not be appropri- cializes in privacy and technology, said Glass is not very differ- ing death toll and atrocities, signs of escalation across Syria’s fron- crimes they committed against our women and children,” the man ate but that he believed new rules of social etiquette will coa- ent from other technologies available today, whether it is a tiers and suspicions that chemical arms may have been used. known as Abu Sakkar said in a new video posting. lesce over time. Firstenberg said it will take time for all sides to smartphone or “spy” pens that secretly record audio. But Glass Three weeks ago, Israeli air strikes near Damascus that were said “I send this message to the world: if the bloodshed in Syria get comfortable with the new technology. “I don’t think we is on people’s faces, so it feels different. to target Iranian weapons heading for Lebanon drove home the does not stop, every Syrian will become Abu Sakkar.” Asked by the should go into the conversation assuming that Glass is bad,” “The face is a really intimate place and to have a piece of risk of the Syrian conflict spreading further afield. As much was unseen interviewer why he mutilated the body, he said the sol- he said. technology on it is unsettling,” Calo said. “Much as a drone is true of bombings last week across the border in Turkey. dier’s phone contained video clips of him raping women, burning Indeed, previous technology innovations such as mobile unsettling because we have some ideas of war.” For all the On Friday, dozens of Iraqis were killed in bombings which bodies and cutting off the limbs of captives. phones and wireless headsets that initially raised concerns are hand-wringing, some early adopters are sold. Ryan Warner, fuelled fears that the increasingly sectarian war in Syria, where A Western diplomat at the United Nations in New York said the now subject to tacit rules of etiquette, such as not talking who recently graduated from college and who has devel- Sunni Islamists are a part of the rebellion and Assad’s Alawite target date for the peace conference was June 10-15, but it loudly on the bus and turning a ringer off in a meeting. Still, oped a recipe app for Glass with Evans, said he was surprised minority is backed by Shiite Iran, could plunge Iraq back into its depended on the readiness of the Syrian parties. An alternative some have decided to leave nothing to chance. Casino opera- by the reaction he got when he went to a bar. “I was like, ‘I own bloody civil conflict between Sunni and Shiite Muslims. Two plan would be to hold an international conference and then have tor Caesar’s Entertainment recently announced that Glass is don’t know if I should have it on or not.’ I was kind of in that bombs exploded outside a Sunni mosque in the city of Baquba as the Syrians meet at a later date when they are prepared. not permitted while gambling or when in showrooms, phase,” he said, “and the bouncer was like, ‘Oh, my god, is worshippers left Friday prayers, killing at least 43 people in one of The Russian arms transfer could intensify a push by some US though guests can wear it in other areas. that Google Glass?’ He was excited.” — Reuters the deadliest attacks of recent months. Several other bombings lawmakers for the United States to deepen its role in Syria, particu- claimed lives around the country - with 19 killed near a commer- larly after President Barack Obama’s government acknowledged cial complex in the west of Baghdad. Attacks on Sunni and Shiite preliminary intelligence that Assad’s forces likely used chemical mosques, security forces and tribal leaders have mounted since weapons - something Obama has called a “red line”. troops from the Shiite-led Iraqi government raided a Sunni “We can watch from the sidelines as the scales are tipped in protest camp near Kirkuk a month ago. London’s Financial Times Assad’s favor, or protect US national interests by supporting the became the latest Western media outlet to be targeted by online armed opposition striving to build a new Syrian future,” said activists who support Assad. Senate foreign relations committee chairman Robert Stories on the FT’s website had their headlines replaced by Menendez. But many US officials fear Western weapons could “Hacked By Syrian Electronic Army” and messages on its Twitter fall into the wrong hands. Obama said Thursday he would con- feed read: “Do you want to know the reality of the Syrian ‘Rebels?’” sider both diplomatic and military options to pressure Assad, followed by a link to a video that purports to show members of but insisted US action alone would not be enough to resolve the Al-Qaeda-linked Nusra Front rebel group executing blindfold- the conflict. — Reuters Cybersecurity experts fear the ‘unknowns’

Continued from Page 1 He is watching the attacks that have taken down the websites of more than a dozen U.S. banks in the past But experts said they were worried about the nine months. There are no signs that hackers have man- increasingly sophisticated cyber capabilities of coun- aged to destroy or modify crucial financial data, but that tries such as China, Russia and Iran. “This new growing is the fear. “Attacks that focus on modifying data in the trend of nation states engaged in cyber attacks that are stealth way, sabotage, integrity attacks - those are the designed to be destructive to parts of the US economy ones that are most insidious and those are the ones we is very, very concerning,” said Mike Rogers, chairman of really should worry about,” Alperovitch said. the US House Intelligence Committee. The migration of ever more elements of the econo- “The ferociousness of these attacks is increasing and my to the digital world opens the door to malfeasance. it’s something that we better get a handle on,” Rogers “We keep hooking more and more stuff up to the added. Dmitri Alperovitch, co-founder of Crowdstrike, a Internet, so the attack surface keeps growing,” said security technology specialist firm that works with gov- Michael Daniel, cybersecurity policy coordinator at the ernments and private companies, said he is most con- White House. “Pretty soon your coffee maker and your cerned about Iran, particularly if there is a spike in ten- refrigerator is going to be an attack vector because it’s SAN FRANCISCO: Attendees wear Google Glass while posing for a group photo during the Google I/O devel- sions in the Middle East. going to be hooked up to the Internet. — Reuters oper conference in San Francisco. — AFP SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 ANALYSIS14

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Washington Watch Bad week, but ‘not that bad’

By Dr James J Zogby

e have, of late, been inundated with press accounts declaring that the Obama Administration is in real trouble. Headlines Wscream: “Obama struggles”, “White House dysfunction”, or, worse still, asking “Has Obama Lost Washington?” One would get the sense that the Administration is unraveling. There can be no doubt that this has been a bad week, but it’s not as disastrous as the president’s crit- ics would have it. To understand the dynamic that set in motion this ava- lanche of bad press, two metaphors are helpful. The first comes from for- mer Senator Eugene McCarthy who was fond of comparing Washington’s political press to crows on a high wire. “When one lands” he would say, “they all land. And when one takes off, they all take off”. It is an apt description for the “feeding frenzies” that can occur in our political world when reporters and politicos, like sharks, smell blood in the water (the other metaphor)and move in to devour their wounded prey. In the toxic environment that is Washington, stories grow and become larger than themselves, and in the ensuing hysteria, all sense of proportion can be lost. Such has been the case with the Congressional hearings into the way the White House handled the deaths of four US Pakistan’s fragile democracy shows new strength officials in Benghazi. The story has been exaggerated to such an extent that a recent poll shows 41% of Republicans now say that Benghazi is the here is good news from Pakistan. No, really. The country their campaigning by the threat of violence. But voters gained tary - which, thankfully, seems to have outgrown its habit of “biggest scandal in US history”, and former Vice President Cheney claim- often referred to as “the most dangerous place on earth” from a great expansion in the freedom of the news media to interfering with civilian rule. Sharif has called for expanded ing that Benghazi is “one of the worse incidents, frankly, that I can recall”. Tis a caldron of violence, religious extremism and nuclear cover and comment on political events. trade with Pakistan’s giant neighbor and made a point of invit- That there is less to this entire affair than meets the eye doesn’t mat- danger. But on Saturday, Pakistan passed a major democratic No one can really envy the prospective prime minister, ing Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to visit. ter. Nor does it matter that this Benghazi “scandal” pales in comparison to milestone. Its national parliamentary elections represented whose country is awash in nightmarish problems - desperate Relations with the United States, never easy, are bound to the lies that dragged the US into the Iraq war. What matters to the press is the perception that they have created for themselves-that this is a “big the first time since its 1947 founding that voters would get to poverty, a stagnant economy, pervasive corruption, rampant remain tense and frustrating. Sharif has been critical of the US story” revealing “dark truths” about the Obama Administration and its replace an elected civilian government with another one. illiteracy, large geographic areas that are beyond government war on terror, including its strikes inside Pakistan. “Sharif ran a failures. Add to this other recent allegations about the Internal Revenue Typically, civilian prime ministers selected by the people are control and a fierce Islamic insurgency. It neighbors on campaign that deliberately ignored the Pakistani Taliban, and Service targeting some Tea Party and “patriot” groups for special scrutiny, eventually ousted by the military, which has ruled the country Afghanistan, which has been wracked for years by internal tacitly has sent the message the cooperation with the US and the Department of Justice using its Bush-era anti-terrorism powers for roughly half of Pakistan’s history. war, and India, with whom it has fought multiple wars. should be limited,” Anthony Cordesman, an expert at the to investigate reporters who received “leaked” information about a CIA One of those was Nawaz Sharif, elected in 1997 but over- Whether Sharif can make progress on these issues is anyone’s Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, operation in Yemen, and you have Republicans hyperventilating in thrown in 1999 by Gen Pervez Musharraf. The general, who guess. A businessman, he pushed measures to open up the told The Wall Street Journal. excitement and the media in a frenzy. I might suggest that we first take a was forced to resign in 2008, is now under house arrest on economy in his previous term, and he has promised to make The US drone war is deeply unpopular in Pakistan, making deep breath and make an effort to put the events of the past week in charges related to his detention of judges. Sharif, meanwhile, growth his top priority. Pakistan’s stock market climbed on it unlikely any Pakistani government will enthusiastically some perspective, but I know it wouldn’t do any good. There is blood in the water and in deeply partisan Washington, the struggle for advantage is poised to become prime minister again after the decisive news of his victory. cooperate. The best hope is that Sharif and his people will and power always trumps reality. victory of his Pakistan Muslim League party. He needs American support to get new loans from the grow so disgusted with the ongoing violence of Islamic Even if I wanted to ascribe the best of intentions to the Republicans Not all of the election news is good. More than 100 people International Monetary Fund, which may incline him to coop- extremists that the government will realize the urgency of who are pushing the Benghazi story, I find it difficult to do so. If they died in bombings carried out by the Pakistani Taliban, which erate with Washington on some issues. His election may her- defeating them. None of Pakistan’s many problems is going to were truly concerned about “lies” that were told by government officials, hoped to scare citizens away from the polls. Some parties, ald a thaw with India, something he pursued the last time be solved right away. But establishing a durable democracy the failure of an Administration to protect American lives, and the need including the outgoing Pakistan People’s Party, were limited in around. That was a major source of his conflict with the mili- can only help.— MCT for responsible government officials to be transparent and accountable for their actions, the place for Congress to begin would be with the Iraq war or with the Bush Administration’s systematic use of torture, rendi- tion, and other practices that violate our own and international laws. Understanding Nieto’s approach to cartels But, of course, this entire enterprise of “getting to the bottom of Benghazi” has nothing to do with truth, lives, or accountability. The By Scott Stewart tion believes that it is critical to reduce the over- clear that the Pena Nieto administration seeks but to join the cartels. Obama Administration’s release of interagency communications, if any- all level of violence in the country. Essentially it to implement a holistic approach in an attempt To truly succeed, especially in the most law- thing, establishes nothing more than the somewhat banal practice of exican President Enrique Pena Nieto’s wants to transform the cartel issue into a law to address the problems at the root of the vio- less areas, the Mexican government is going to language vetting that, while annoying at times, has become rather stan- enforcement problem, something handled by lence that in some ways is quite reminiscent of have to begin to build institutions-and public dard practice. No, in the end, this is not about truth or governance. It is, in approach to combating Mexican drug fact, nothing more than a continuation of the five year long effort to Mcartels has been a much-discussed top- the Interior Ministry and the national police, counterinsurgency policy. The Mexicans view trust in those institutions-from the ground up. weaken and distract the president, in order to gain advantage over ic since well before he was elected. Indeed, in rather than a national security problem handled these underlying economic, cultural and socio- The officials we have talked to hold Juarez up as Democrats, and,in this instance, to wage a preemptive strike against for- June 2011 - more than a year before the July by the Mexican military and the Center for logical problems as issues that cannot be solved an example they hope to follow in other loca- mer Secretary of State Hilary Clinton’s presidential aspirations (should 2012 Mexican presidential election-I wrote an Research and National Security (Mexico’s with force alone. Mexican officials in the current tions, though they say they learned a lot of les- she have any). analysis discussing rumors that, if elected, Pena national-level intelligence agency). government say that the approach the sons in Juarez that will allow them to streamline As for the IRS and Department of Justice stories, they are problems, Nieto was going to attempt to reach some sort In many ways the Pena Nieto administration Calderon administration took to fighting the their efforts elsewhere. Obviously, before they to be sure, but problems that do not implicate the president. If anything, of accommodation with Mexico’s drug cartels in wants to follow the model of the government of cartels was wrong in that it sought to solve the can begin building, they recognize that they will these revelations have given the president the opportunity to demon- order to bring down the level of violence. Colombia, which has never been able to stop problem of cartel violence by simply killing or have to seize, consolidate and hold territory, strate his determination to respond quickly and decisively. He immedi- trafficking in its territory but was able to defeat arresting cartel figures. and this is the role they envision for the newly ately condemned both as abuses of power and acted to remove the Such rumors were certainly understandable, head of the IRS who was responsible. given the arrangement that had existed for the powerful Medellin and Cali cartels and rele- They claim that Calderon’s approach did created gendarmerie, or paramilitary police. All this, the pundits say, could not have come at a worse time for the many years between some senior members of gate their successor organizations to a law nothing to treat the underlying causes of the The gendarmerie is important to this president. As conventional wisdom has it, the administration has a limit- Pena Nieto’s Institutional Revolutionary Party enforcement problem. The Mexicans also violence and that the cartels were able to recruit rebuilding effort because the military is inca- ed window of opportunity remaining in which to push through its sec- and some powerful cartel figures during the believe that if they can attenuate cartel vio- gunmen faster than the government could kill pable of serving in an investigative law enforce- ond term agenda: immigration reform, responsible gun control meas- Institutional Revolutionary Party’s long reign in lence, they will be able to free up law enforce- or capture them. (In some ways this is parallel to ment role. They are deployed to pursue active ures, a new budget that continues to grow the economy while reining in Mexico prior to the election of Vicente Fox of ment forces to tackle common crime instead of the US government’s approach in Yemen, where shooters and target members of the cartels, but deficits, and facing down foreign policy challenges, especially those rag- the National Action Party in 2000. focusing nearly all their resources on containing increases in missile strikes from unmanned aeri- much of the crime affecting Mexico’s citizens ing across the Middle East. In this view, by next year the country will be in However, as we argued in 2011 and repeat- the cartel wars. Although the cartels have not al vehicles have increased, rather than reduced, and companies falls outside the military’s the throes of Congressional elections with “every man for himself” and yet been taken down to the point of being a law the number of jihadists there.) In Mexico, when purview. The military also has a tendency to be Democrats running in close contests wanting to dissociate themselves ed in March 2013, much has changed in Mexico from a weakened White House. In this environment, Republicans hope since 2000, and the new reality in Mexico enforcement problem, the Pena Nieto adminis- the cartels experienced trouble in recruiting heavy-handed, and reports of human rights that Democrats will be less inclined to support the president’s agenda if means that it would be impossible for the Pena tration wants to continue to signal this shift in enough gunmen, they were able to readily abuses are quite common. it doesn’t fit their reelection calculations. Following these November, Nieto administration to reach any sort of deal approach by moving the focus of its efforts import them from Central America. Transforming from a national security to a 2014 contests, the President truly becomes a lame duck as the country with the cartels even if it made an attempt. But against the cartels to the Interior Ministry. However-and this is very significant-this law enforcement approach requires the forma- heads toward the 2016 presidential elections. This is the conventional the rumors of the Pena Nieto government Unlike former Mexican President Felipe holistic approach does not mean that the Pena tion of an effective police force that is able to wisdom, and it is what has Republicans gleefully putting forth, and the reaching an accommodation with some cartel Calderon, who was seen leading the charge Nieto administration wants to totally abandon conduct community policing while pursuing press echoing and amplifying, the notion that the president is “finished”. figures such as Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman against the cartels during his administration, kinetic operations against the cartels. An impor- car thieves, extortionists, kidnappers and street Two observations are in order. The first is that while Obama has had a Loera have persisted, even as the Mexican gov- Pena Nieto wants to maintain some distance tant pillar of any counterinsurgency campaign gangs in addition to cartel gunmen. Certainly bad week, it pales in comparison with his predecessors’ second term from the struggle against is providing security for the population. But the US government was very involved in the woes. Clinton had to deal with a trumped-up impeachment process and ernment arrests key operatives in Guzman’s net- Bush faced national scorn for his disastrous handing of hurricane Katrina work, such as Ines Coronel Barreras, Guzman’s the cartels (at least pub- rather than provoke random fire- Calderon administration’s kinetic approach to and the unraveling of his Iraq war. These were, by any measure, far more father-in-law, who was arrested May 1 in Agua licly). Pena Nieto fights with cartel gunmen by send- the cartel problem, as shown by the very heavy serious challenges. Clinton not only survived impeachment, but was Prieta, Mexico. seeks to portray the ing military patrols into cartel hot collaboration between the two governments. buoyed by a robust economy. And Bush, with his “smoke and mirrors” Indeed, on April 27, Washington Post cartels as a second- spots, the Pena Nieto team The collaboration was so heavy, in fact, that “surge” operation in Iraq, was able to rebound a bit until the economic reporter Dana Priest published a detailed article ary issue that does wants to be more targeted some incoming Pena Nieto administration fig- collapse of 2008. outlining how US authorities were fearful that not demand his and intentional in its appli- ures were shocked by how integrated the It will not be easy, but what President Obama will now do is work to the Mexican government was restructuring its personal leader- cation of force. Americans had become. regain control of the story being told in the daily press accounts emanat- security relationship with the US government ship and atten- It seeks to take out The US officials who told Dana Priest they ing from Washington. The still recovering economy will help, but it won’t tion. the networks that were uncomfortable with the new Mexican be dramatic enough to turn the tide. Nor can he count on Congress to so that it could more easily reach an unofficial support him with passage of key elements of his agenda. With or with- truce with cartel leaders. Yet four days later, He can then hire and supply the government’s approach to cartel violence out “scandal”, partisanship will continue to win out, with Republicans Coronel-a significant cartel figure-was arrested publicly focus his gunmen, not just were undoubtedly among those deeply loathe to give the White House any meaningful victories. The president in a joint operation between the Mexicans and efforts on issues the gunmen them- involved in this process-perhaps so deeply will need to reestablish control by executive decisions in areas of domes- Americans. Clearly, there is some confusion on he deems critical- selves, and this will involved that they could not recognize that in tic or foreign policy where he can demonstrate leadership by acting the US side about the approach the Pena Nieto ly important to require all the tools the big picture, their approach was failing to independently and decisively. Should he succeed, the shenanigans in government is taking, but conversations with Mexico’s future, in its counternar- reduce the violence in Mexico. Indeed, from Congress will be reduced to a sideshow. And the nation’s press, a la both US and Mexican officials reveal that these like education cotics portfolio- the Mexican perspective, the US efforts have McCarthy’s metaphor, will follow the story he is creating. All in all, it may changes in Mexico’s approach do not appear to reform, banking not only force, but been focused on reducing the flow of nar- have been a bad week, but it is one the White House can survive. be as drastic as some have feared. There will reform, energy also things like cotics into the United States regardless of the need to be adjustments on both sides of the reform and fostering intelligence, impact of those efforts on Mexico’s security border while organizational changes are under- the Mexican econo- financial action environment. However, as seen by the May 1 All articles appearing on these way in Mexico, but this does not mean that my. This is the most (to target cartel arrest of Coronel, which a Mexican official pages are the personal opinion of bilateral US-Mexico cooperation will decline in significant difference finances), public described as a classic joint operation involving the writers. Kuwait Times takes no the long term. between the Calderon health, institution the US Drug Enforcement Administration and and Pena Nieto adminis- building and anti- Mexican Federal Police, the Mexican authori- responsibility for views expressed OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES trations. Of course it is one corruption efforts. ties do intend to continue to work very closely therein. Kuwait Times invites read- Despite the violence that has wracked thing to say that the cartels The theory is with their American counterparts. But that ers to voice their opinions. Please Mexico over the past decade, the Mexican have become a secondary that by providing cooperation must occur within the new frame- economy is booming. Arguably, the economy issue, and it is quite another security, stability and work established for the anti-cartel efforts. send submissions via email to: opin- would be doing even better if potential to make it happen. The economic opportu- That means that plans for cooperation must be [email protected] or via snail investors were not concerned about cartel vio- Mexican government still nity the government presented through the Mexican Interior mail to PO Box 1301 Safat, Kuwait. lence and street crime-and if such criminal faces some real challenges in can undercut the cartels’ Ministry so that the efforts can be centrally activity did not have such a significant impact reducing the threat posed by ability to recruit youth coordinated. Much of the current peer-to-peer The editor reserves the right to edit on businesses operating in Mexico. the cartels. who currently see little cooperation can continue, but within that any submission as necessary. Because of this, the Pena Nieto administra- However, it is becoming other options in life structure.— Stratfor SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 SPORTS

Ferguson criticises City Larsen new BWF president Shields eyes higher honors for Mancini sacking KUALA LUMPUR: Badminton’s world governing body (BWF) will create a WELLINGTON: Wellington Hurricanes loose forward Brad Shields has had the mis- fortune of being lumbered with quite possibly the worst acronym a New Zealand LONDON: Manchester United’s outgoing manager Alex Ferguson has criticised separate commission to deal with match-fixing problems, Poul-Erik Hoyer rugby player can receive. neighbors Manchester City for sacking Roberto Mancini. Larsen said after being elected president yesterday. ABIW. All Black In Waiting. A term that brings with it accolades and attention, but The Italian boss was sacked on Monday having failed to retain the Premier Denmark’s 1996 Olympic men’s singles gold medallist Hoyer Larsen even more in expectation. Not that the circumspect 22-year- League title he won last season and after losing the FA Cup beat Indonesian Justian Suhandinata to claim the role after an election at old, who has admitted to nerves when speaking to groups final to Wigan Athletic. the BWF headquarters in Kuala Lumpur. of people, accepts that characterisation or is taking any- Mancini took out a full-page advertisement in The 47-year-old, the only European to win a badminton gold at the thing for granted before he joins All Blacks coach Steve the Manchester Evening News on Saturday, thank- Olympics, will replace South Korea’s Kang Young-joong who vacated the Hansen’s first training camp of the year on Sunday. ing fans for their support during his time in charge. post after eight years at the helm. “Badminton has been in my heart for The blindside flanker was asked to attend the same The former Inter Milan manager said in the ad: my whole life and therefore I cherish this opportunity,” Hoyer Larsen told camp last year after just a handful of games mostly off “Manchester City Supporters 3 unforgettable years, reporters. “I am really looking forward to work with the staff and my coun- the bench at Super Rugby level but did not make you will always be in my heart, ciao, Roberto cil members in order to deliver for the future... so that we are fulfilling the Hansen’s first All Blacks 30-man squad for the series Mancini.” task that had been set by Dr. Kang.” against Ireland. Ferguson, who will retire following today’s game at Hoyer Larsen will have four years to revive the sport, which came A seemingly innocuous twisted knee against the West Bromwich Albion, rallied behind his former rival under fire at last year’s London Olympics when four women’s doubles Waikato Chiefs last July then ended his first season as a and questioned the logic behind sacking a manager pairs from South Korea, China and Indonesia deliberately played to lose fully professional rugby player. “I twisted it and who won the Premier League and FA Cup during his their matches in order to get a more favourable draw. The players were as the kneecap popped out it chipped some three years in charge. “It was quite amazing. He has kicked out of the Games but not before it created the biggest scandal in cartilage off,” Shields told Reuters at Wellington won the FA Cup, been in the final, second in the badminton’s history as an Olympic sport. “Match-fixing or match throw- Regional Stadium after his side’s 17-12 loss to league and won the league and it’s not good ing is, of course, a concern,” Hoyer Larsen said, after polling 145 votes to the Chiefs on Friday. —Reuters enough?” he told reporters.—Reuters Suhandinata’s 120 during the election.—Reuters Braves roll over Dodgers

ATLANTA: Justin Upton gave Atlanta the lead with two-run shot and Tony Cingrani allowed three runs NATIONALS 6, PADRES 5 a sixth-inning grand slam and the Braves finally and five hits in five innings for the Reds. Sean In San Diego, Adam LaRoche hit two towering unveiled their full-strength lineup, beating the Los Marshall (0-1) took the loss. home runs and Chad Tracy’s solo shot in the 10th Angeles Dodgers 8-5 on Friday night. inning lifted Washington over San Diego. Upton drove in five runs hitting behind Jason DIAMONDBACKS 9, MARLINS 2 Tracy’s seventh career pinch-hit home run Heyward, who had two hits with a RBI in his first In Miami, Paul Goldschmidt homered twice, tied negated a blown save from closer Rafael Soriano, game back after having his appendix removed his career high with four hits and drove in four runs who gave up two runs with two outs in the ninth. April 22. It was the first time this season the Braves to lead Arizona over Miami. Eric Chavez homered The Padres tied the game with three straight had Heyward in the lineup along with catcher Brian and also had four hits, and Gerardo Parra and singles. Chase Headley’s RBI made it 5-4 and McCann, who missed the first 30 games while Martin Prado had three hits apiece for Arizona, Yonder Alonso pushed him to third with another recovering from offseason shoulder surgery. which had 16 hits in all and won its third straight single. Kyle Blanks evened the score with another Scott Van Slyke hit two homers for the Dodgers, game. Trevor Cahill (3-4) won for the third time in single, which sent the game into extra innings. who led 4-2 before Upton’s third career grand slam. four decisions following an 0-3 start, allowing one It was Soriano’s second blown save in 14 Los Angeles had won four of its previous five com- run, five hits and four walks in eight innings. He chances. Drew Storen got his first save of the sea- CLEVELAND: Kyle Seager No. 15 of the Seattle Mariners reacts to flying out ing in - its best stretch since early April. walked his first two batters in the third before retir- son in the 10th. Tracy’s home run came off Padres to center field in the ninth inning against the Cleveland Indians. —AFP Paul Maholm (5-4) allowed eight hits and four ing 13 in a row, 10 on groundballs. Kevin Slowey (1- closer Huston Street (0-3), who has allowed six runs - two earned - in six innings, and Craig Kimbrel 4) gave up six runs and seven hits in three innings home runs in 17 1-3 innings. He gave up two in 39 Indians dump Mariners pitched the ninth for his 12th save. Hyun-Jin Ryu for the Marlins. innings last season. overcame a career-high five walks to give up only CLEVELAND: Jason Kipnis’ three-run homer in with a go-ahead double in the sixth inning to two runs in five innings, but Dodgers relievers Matt METS 3, CUBS 2 INTERLEAGUE PIRATES 5, ASTROS 4 the 10th inning gave the Cleveland Indians a 6-3 back Rick Porcello and lift Detroit over Texas in a Guerrier and Poco Rodriguez (0-2) quickly blew the In Chicago, Matt Harvey won his fifth straight In Pittsburgh, Jimmy Paredes dropped Russell win over the Seattle Mariners on Friday night. matchup of division leaders. 4-2 lead in the sixth. decision, allowing five hits in 7 1-3 innings and sin- Martin’s bases-loaded fly ball when he collided Kipnis’ home run came on an 0-1 pitch from Jim Leyland earned his 1,699th win as a Lucas Luetge and capped a two-out rally that major league manager as the Tigers remained CARDINALS 7, BREWERS 6 began with a walk and an infield hit. The Indians tied with Cleveland atop the AL Central. St. Louis, David Freese hit a grand slam for his have won 15 of 19 and are 10-2 at Progressive Porcello (2-2) allowed one run and five hits in first homer of the season during a five-run first Field since April 30. Vinnie Pestano (1-0), activat- 5 2-3 innings with six strikeouts and a walk as inning for St. Louis, and the Cardinals held on to ed from the disabled list before the game, the Tigers rebounded from a 10-4 loss to Texas beat Milwaukee. worked around a one-out walk in the 10th. Drew on Thursday night in which ace Justin Verlander The Brewers made it close on a pair of three-run Stubbs, who homered in the fifth, drew a walk was knocked out in the third inning. homers by Aramis Ramirez off Jaime Garcia before off Luetge (0-1). Stubbs broke for second with a Jose Valverde got three groundouts around a losing for the 13th time in 15 games. The bottom 1-2 count on Michael Bourn, and Luetge threw one-out walk to Geovany Soto in the ninth, get- four spots in the lineup were a combined 0 for 15. to first baseman Justin Smoak, but Stubbs beat ting his fourth save in five chances this season. The Cardinals had five hits and a walk while bat- the throw to shortstop Brendan Ryan. Bourn hit Rookie Nick Tepesch (3-4) gave up two runs, six ting around against Wily Peralta (3-4) in the first, a slow roller past the mound and second base- hits and three walks in five innings. but the right-hander was still in the game when man Dustin Ackley’s throw to first was late. Garcia (5-2) was chased in the sixth. Kipnis followed with his seventh homer. RED SOX 3, TWINS 2 Milwaukee got one hit in 3 2-3 innings against In Minneapolis, Jonny Gomes hit a sacrifice three relievers, with Edward Mujica working the YANKEES 5, BLUE JAYS 0 fly in the 10th inning to lift Boston to another ninth for his 12th save in 12 chances. In New York, Hiroki Kuroda pitched two-hit comeback victory. The Red Sox have won three ball for eight dominant innings and New York straight after losing 10 of their previous 14 ROCKIES 10, GIANTS 9 again beat Mark Buehrle and Toronto. games, while the Twins have lost three in a row In Denver, Jordan Pacheco hit a tiebreaking Austin Romine and Brett Gardner had run- after winning six of nine. grand slam in the fifth inning and Carlos Gonzalez scoring hits, Robinson Cano hit an RBI grounder Twins reliever Josh Roenicke (1-1) gave up a added a solo homer, helping Colorado hold on for and Jayson Nix had two sacrifice flies in drop- single and a walk to open the 10th. After a sacri- a win over San Francisco that snapped a 10-game ping Buehrle to 1-10 in 15 starts against the fice bunt, Stephen Drew was intentionally skid against the Giants. Yankees. The left-hander hasn’t beaten New York walked to load the bases. Then Gomes sent a Pacheco laced his first homer of the season to since April 10, 2004, when he was with the drive to center field, where Aaron Hicks caught left on a hanging slider from Madison Bumgarner Chicago White Sox. The AL East-leading Yankees the ball but double-clutched on his throw and (4-2), who failed to protect an early four-run lead. defeated last-place Toronto for the fifth straight didn’t have a chance to get the speedy Dustin Jorge De La Rosa (5-3) entered the game with- time this season in New York and for the seventh Pedroia. Alex Wilson (1-0) picked up the victory out giving up a run at Coors Field in 12 innings. He time in eight games overall. Kuroda (6-2) struck by getting the last out of the ninth and Koji was hit hard, surrendering five runs in five innings, out five and walked one in cooling off a club Uehara threw a perfect 10th for his first save. only to settle down enough to earn the win. In the that had scored 33 runs in its previous three ninth, Rafael Betancourt struck out the side for his ATLANTA: Craig Kimbrel No. 46 of the Atlanta Braves throws a ninth-inning pitch games and had won a season-high four in a row. WHITE SOX 3, ANGELS 0 10th save in as many chances. Kuroda won for the fourth time in five starts and In Anaheim, Chris Sale stifled Los Angeles’ against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Turner Field.—AFP is 2-0 in three starts against the Blue Jays this bats for the second time in six days, scattering PHILLIES 5, REDS 3 gling in the go-ahead run in the seventh to lead with second baseman Jake Elmore with two outs year - matching up each time against Buehrle - three hits over 7 2-3 innings with a season-high In Philadelphia, Domonic Brown drove in the New York over Chicago. in the ninth, the second missed catch by a allowing four runs in 21 1-3 innings. 12 strikeouts and Chicago extended its winning tiebreaking run on an infield grounder in the Daniel Murphy and David Wright homered for Houston right fielder, and Pittsburgh rallied past streak to a season-high four games. eighth and Philadelphia snapped Cincinnati’s six- the Mets, and right fielder Marlon Byrd preserved the Astros. RAYS 12, ORIOLES 10 Alex Rios and Adam Dunn homered for the game winning streak. Jimmy Rollins hit a two-run the lead by throwing out a runner at the plate in Down 4-1, Pittsburgh started its comeback in In Baltimore, Kelly Johnson hit a three-run White Sox. Sale (5-2) threw 79 of his 113 pitches homer and Cliff Lee threw seven sharp innings for the eighth inning. The Mets won consecutive the sixth when Chris Carter dropped Andrew homer and an RBI single, and Tampa Bay held on for strikes in another competitive duel with fel- the Phillies, who won for the fourth time in five games for the first time since May 1 and 3. McCutchen’s fly ball for a three-base error and for a victory over slumping Baltimore. Johnson low lefty C.J. Wilson, whom he beat 3-0 last games. Lee gave up two runs and six hits, striking Harvey (5-0) won his first four starts, then failed Garrett Jones followed with a double. and Yunel Escobar had three hits apiece in Sunday night at Chicago. Sale extended his out seven. Justin De Fratus (2-0) got two batters to get a decision in his next four. Edwin Jackson (1- Pedro Alvarez hit a two-run homer in the Tampa Bay’s highest scoring game of the sea- scoreless streak to 23 innings. out in the eighth and Jonathan Papelbon finished 6), coming off a victory at Washington on May 11, eighth and Justin Wilson (4-0) worked the tenth son. Escobar also drove in three runs and Addison Reed pitched a perfect ninth for his for his eighth save in eight tries. gave up three runs and seven hits in 6 2-3 innings inning to pick up the win for the Pirates. Edgar Desmond Jennings added two hits and two 14th save in 15 chances. Wilson (3-3) lost his Joey Votto hit a solo homer, Jay Bruce added a for the Cubs. Gonzalez (0-1) took the loss.—AP RBIs. The Orioles surrendered a season-high 17 third straight start, allowing two runs and six hits hits for the second straight game and gave up over seven innings in his longest outing of the their most runs in any game this season. season. Baltimore has allowed 27 runs and 52 hits while losing four of its last five games. Chris Dickerson ATHLETICS 2, ROYALS 1 Penguins edge Senators hit a three-run homer in Baltimore’s six-run In Oakland, Adam Rosales hit a go-ahead eighth inning, but the Orioles’ rally stalled from home run leading off the eighth inning, Josh there. Jeremy Hellickson (2-2) was charged with Donaldson also connected and reigning AL West PITTSBURGH: Pittsburgh’s Sidney and Tomas Vokoun made 19 saves the Senators, but couldn’t stop playoff points, and did so in spec- eight runs and 10 hits in 7 2-3 innings, but still champion Oakland earned just its third victory Crosby scored his second career and the Penguins rode their super- Ottawa from falling into a deep tacular fashion. He score the open- managed to get the win. Joel Peralta got four in the last 11 games. playoff hat trick to give the star captain to their fourth straight hole against the Eastern er 3:16 into the game, collecting a outs for his first save. Johnson drove a full-count Sean Doolittle (3-0) pitched the eighth for Penguins a 4-3 win over the Ottawa victory. Conference’s top seed. The Senators pass at the blue line, darting up the pitch from Jason Hammel (5-2) over the wall in the win in relief of Jarrod Parker. Oakland finally Senators on Friday and a 2-0 lead in Crosby beat Craig Anderson have never won a playoff series line, splitting two Senators and right in the third, capping Tampa Bay’s four-run got to James Shields (2-4) in the late innings, the NHL Eastern Conference semifi- three times in the game’s first 22 after dropping the first two games. then ripping a shot under the outburst with his sixth homer. nearly 10 months after he pitched a three-hit nals. minutes, sending the goalie to the Game 3 is today in Ottawa. goalie’s pads. Turris tied the game shutout here last July 31 for the Tampa Bay Rays. Brenden Morrow added his first bench. Kyle Turris, Colin Greening Crosby became the fifth player with the first soft goal Vokoun has TIGERS 2, RANGERS 1 The right-hander matched his season high with playoff goal in more than five years and Jean-Gabriel Pageau scored for in franchise history to record 100 allowed since taking over for Marc- In Arlington, Miguel Cabrera went 3 for 4 nine strikeouts.—AP Andre Fleury in Game 5 of the first- round series. Turris collected the puck near the left post and shot it off Vokoun and into the net. MLB results/standings Crosby one-upped Turris a few minutes later, zipping down the left NY Mets 3, Chicago Cubs 2; Tampa Bay 12, Baltimore 10; Cleveland 6, Seattle 3 (10 innings); NY side once again. This time, Crosby Yankees 5, Toronto 0; Philadelphia 5, Cincinnati 3; Pittsburgh 5, Houston 4; Arizona 9, Miami 2; appeared to be looking to pass, but Atlanta 8, LA Dodgers 5; Detroit 2, Texas 1; Boston 3, Minnesota 2 (10 innings); St. Louis 7, at the last second and without even Milwaukee 6; Colorado 10, San Francisco 9; Chicago White Sox 3, LA Angels 0; Oakland 2, Kansas peeking directly at Anderson, he City 1; Washington 6, San Diego 5 (10 innings). flipped a wrist shot near the goal line that smacked off the goalie’s American League National League pad and into the net. Eastern Division Eastern Division Crosby didn’t need any fancy W L PCT GB Atlanta 23 18 .561 - stickwork to record his first post- NY Yankees 26 16 .619 - Washington 23 19 .548 0.5 season hat trick since 2009. Instead Boston 25 17 .595 1 Philadelphia 20 22 .476 3.5 he powered a slap shot over Baltimore 23 18 .561 2.5 NY Mets 16 23 .410 6 Anderson’s glove from the left circle Tampa Bay 21 20 .512 4.5 Miami 11 31 .262 12.5 to push Pittsburgh’s lead to 3-1. Toronto 17 25 .405 9 Central Division Anderson skated to the bench, Central Division St. Louis 27 14 .659 - Cleveland 23 17 .575 - replaced by Robin Lehner. Cincinnati 25 17 .595 2.5 Detroit 23 17 .575 - Greening responded almost Pittsburgh 25 17 .595 2.5 Kansas City 20 18 .526 2 immediately after the switch, beat- Chicago Cubs 17 24 .415 10 Chicago W Sox 19 21 .475 4 ing Vokoun with a sizzling wrist Milwaukee 16 24 .400 10.5 Minnesota 18 20 .474 4 shot 40 seconds later to get the Western Division Western Division Senators within one. Morrow Arizona 24 18 .571 - Texas 27 15 .643 - restored the two-goal lead by redi- San Francisco 24 18 .571 - Oakland 21 22 .488 6.5 recting Paul Martin’s blast from just Colorado 22 20 .524 2 Seattle 20 22 .476 7 outside the crease. It was Morrow’s San Diego 18 23 .439 5.5 PITTSBURGH: Craig Anderson No. 41 of the Ottawa Senators makes a save on Brenden Morrow No. 10 LA Angels 15 27 .357 12 first postseason score since 2008, LA Dodgers 17 23 .425 6 of the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first period in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Semifinals dur- Houston 11 31 .262 16 while playing for Dallas.—AP ing the 2013 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs.—AFP SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 SPORTS Restore wrestling, give others fair shot

NEW YORK: Wrestling is heeding the and cost of the Olympics (how’s that erhouses, the competition in London most notably getting former President do that,” Dziedzic said. “The object is to harshest of wakeup calls. Now it’s time for working out?) but turned into one of the drew 71 nations - 29 of which claimed Raphael Martinetti to drop his bid to hire a professional public relations firm to the International Olympic Committee to biggest stumbles of outgoing President medals. Yet the IOC, ticked at FILA’s resist- regain the job. Acting President Nenad help us improve the pageantry and dra- do the right thing. Put this most historic Jacques Rogge’s regime. ance to doing anything progressive and Lalovic is the only candidate who’ll be ma in our presentation at events.” of sports back on the program for the In the eyes of the IOC, aquatics is con- clear arrogance that its place in the considered when FILA votes on a succes- A bit troubling is that FILA isn’t ready 2020 Summer Games. sidered to be one sport because swim- Olympics was secure, gave wrestling the sor, considered a key step in repairing to act on one of its most pressing prob- Assuming the governing body, known ming, diving, synchronized swimming, heave-ho while keeping the obscure relations with the IOC. The federation also lems: getting more women and athletes as FILA, follows through on major steps water polo and open water are governed sport of modern pentathlon, which tests is expected to approve some significant involved in running the sport. But Friday - simplifying the rules, settling on a by a single federation. But it’s actually the skills needed by a 19th-century caval- rules changes, such as switching from Dziedzic said the federation is committed new leader, pressing forward with ways five sports. ry officer. “Wrestling failed to keep its three two-minute periods to two three- to revamping its constitution over the to make the sport more hip and exciting Yet the related - but distinctly differ- sport properly modern,” conceded Stan minute periods, having the winner deter- next year to come in compliance with IOC for fans - there’s no reason for wrestling ent - disciplines within martial arts are Dziedzic, a FILA vice president and 1976 mined by total points rather than who guidelines, as well as moving toward to compete with seven other sports vying ruled by separate organizations, which Olympic medalist. “We did a very poor wins the most periods (which led to a more gender equity on the mat. That will to get on the Olympic program. Besides, explains how judo and taekwondo are job there.” wrestler with fewer points sometimes likely mean six women’s freestyle events those other sports - squash, karate, roller Olympic sports, karate and wushu are Even so, the decision sparked outrage winning the match), and eliminating the at the next Olympics, while the number sport, wushu, sport climbing, wakeboard- not. around the globe. Russian President reviled overtime rule used in freestyle, of men’s divisions is reduced from seven ing and a combined baseball-softball bid Most of the focus at the moment is on Vladimir Putin vowed to do what he known as “The Clinch,” which put one to six in both freestyle and Greco-Roman. - all deserve a fair shot at the one avail- wrestling’s bid to remain on the program could to overturn it. The U.S. and Iran, wrestler at a severe disadvantage. “We had heated discussions around able spot, which they may not get past the 2016 Rio Games after the IOC two nations that rarely agree on any- More important will be the changes to the governance issue,” Dziedzic said in a because of the justifiable outcry over stunningly gave it the boot in February, thing, became wrestling allies. come. For now, FILA won’t be acting on phone call from Moscow. “That won’t be wrestling’s exclusion. throwing it into the pool of wannabe Supporters took their campaign to social radical proposals to change the look of completely solved here.” “Maybe we can share a venue with sports for 2020. media, unleashing countless tweets (hash the sport, from replacing uniforms known The 15-member IOC board will decide wrestling,” joked Andrew Shelley, the CEO From a purely athletic standpoint, it tag: SaveOlympicWrestling) and setting as singlets with tight-fitting T-shirts and if wrestling has done enough to remain of World Squash. All quips aside, this was a decision that made absolutely no up a Facebook page that has grown to shorts (a change that likely would make on the road to re-inclusion when it meets would be a good time for the IOC to re- sense. There’s history: Wrestling is one of more than 92,000 backers. more youngsters comfortable about try- May 29-31 in St. Petersburg, Russia. At examine its rules that allow a maximum the few sports that can say it’s been part Dziedzic told The Associated Press ing the sport) to jazzing up meets with that point, three of the eight sports are of 28 federations into the Summer of the Olympics since ancient Greece. that the governing body reached agree- loud music and flashy lights, more in line likely to be forwarded to the full IOC Games, an arbitrary guideline that was There’s universality: While Russia and the ment on several points ahead of with a professional boxing or mixed mar- assembly, which meets in September at supposed to hold down the size, scope United States are two of the biggest pow- Saturday’s special meeting in Moscow, tials arts event. “None of us is qualified to Buenos Aires to pick one of them. —AP Bradley stays in charge

IRVING: Former champion Keegan Bradley main- tained a three-shot lead in Friday’s second round of the Byron Nelson Championship in Irving, Texas after grinding his way to a one-under-par 69 in increasingly tricky conditions. Three ahead of the chasing pack overnight after opening with a blistering course record 60, Bradley had to contend with strengthening winds and firm- ing greens at the TPC Four Seasons Resort Las Colinas en route to an 11-under total of 129. American journeyman Tom Gillis (63) and South Korean Bae Sang-moon (66) were tied for second but China’s 14-year-old Guan Tianlang made an early exit, missing his first PGA Tour cut in three career starts after battling to a 77. A day after tying the tournament record of 60 held jointly by Sam Snead (1957) and Arron Oberholser (2006), Bradley mixed four birdies with three bogeys to preserve his place at the top of the leaderboard. Though he dropped his final shot of the day at the par-four last where his tee shot sailed well right and he failed to get up and down from left of the green, he was delighted with his score. “I’m really happy shooting 69,” Bradley, win- IRVING: Keegan Bradley hits a shot out of a sand trap during the 2013 HP Byron ner here in 2011 before going on to claim his first Nelson Championship at the TPC Four Seasons Resort. —AFP major title at the PGA Championship just three months later, told reporters. feet or nine feet so I was a little disappointed with well outside the cutline of level-par 140. “I’m almost more proud of this round than yes- that but overall it was good, really good. Competing this week on a sponsor’s exemption, terday because I didn’t feel comfortable all day. I “I just gave it a little too much speed,” Gillis said Guan carded five bogeys, two birdies and two dou- was a little uncomfortable and then I settled it and of his first putt on the ninth green. “I probably lost ble-bogeys, the last of them coming on his final hit some really good shots.” concentration on the comebacker, so I guess that hole, the ninth, where his tee shot ended up in Gillis, bidding for his first PGA Tour title after happens.” water. “I won’t make the cut every time, but I think I MOBILE: Jessica Korda hits her tee shot on the 16th hole during round two spending much of his golfing career competing on While Gillis was among several players in the learned more,” Guan said. The Chinese teenager has of the Mobile Bay LPGA Classic at the Crossings Course at the Robert Trent the lower tier circuits, was also in an upbeat mood morning wave who took advantage of calmer been one of the biggest talking points in golf since Jones Trail at Magnolia Grove. —AFP after rocketing into contention. weather and preferred lies on a layout softened by he became the youngest player to make the cut in “I’m pleased obviously,” the 44-year-old said rain earlier in the week, Chinese sensation Guan a major championship at the Masters five weeks Jessica leads LPGA Classic after a red-hot round tarnished slightly by a three- plummeted down the leaderboard. ago. Also failing to advance were former major putt bogey on his final hole, the par-four ninth. “I Guan, who made his second consecutive PGA winners Yang Yong-eun of South Korea, South MOBILE: Jessica Korda shot a 7-under 65 on Friday Chella Choi was two strokes back at 11 under made a bunch of putts. Tour cut at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans last African Trevor Immelman and Americans Ben to take a one-stroke lead over Hall of Famer Karrie after a 66. “Today and yesterday my putting was “At the last I hit it pretty close, to about eight month, followed his opening 70 with a 77 to finish Curtis and Lee Janzen.—Reuters Webb after the second round of the Mobile Bay really good,” Choi said. “My confidence is better.” LPGA Classic. Sydnee Michaels had a course-record 62 to join Korda had seven birdies in her second straight Pornanong Phatlum and Thidapa Suwannapura at bogey-free round to reach 13 under on The 10 under. Crossings course at the Robert Trent Jones Golf “It feels so good to finally have a good round Trail’s Magnolia Grove complex. because I’ve been struggling the last few weeks “I’m hitting the ball good and I’m having a lot of and going through some swing changes,” Michaels fun out there,” said Korda, coming off a two-week said. “The week off last week I just said, ‘You know break to rest a wrist injury. “I feel really comfortable what, I’m just going to go back to what feels good.’ out here. This is definitely one of the stops I wanted So I hit a lot of balls and just kind of got back to to come back to and I hope we can keep this event where I was feeling good over the ball again. So, it as long as possible because I really like it.” feels so good to finally have a good round.” The daughter of former tennis players Petr Phatlum shot a 65, and Suwannapura had a 67. Korda and Regina Raichrtova, the 20-year-old Lisa McCloskey shot a 68 to reach 7 under after she Korda won the 2012 Women’s Australian Open for and her mother, Maria, were involved in a multicar her lone LPGA Tour title. accident on their way home after the first round. “Right now it’s Friday, so I think really the tour- The tour rookie and former University of Southern nament starts back nine on Sunday,” Korda said. “So California player had an array of scrapes from the right now, it’s great to have the lead and I feel airbags and a sore thumb and only got about 30 good.” Webb also had a bogey-free round, birdieing minutes of sleep. the last three holes for a 63. The 38-year-old Webb “I think I came out here with no expectations, won the last of her 38 LPGA Tour titles in 2011. The just-make-the-cut kind of thing,” McCloskey said. “I Group photo of guests and KSSC officials. Australian played alongside Korda and Brittany probably would have been happy with even par or Lincicome the first two rounds. a couple over. But I don’t know, the putter was real- Gulf Youth Hostels visit “When you’re playing with Jess and Brittany, if I ly working for me on the front nine, and then the hit a really good one I’m 20 yards behind them,” back nine things kind of slowed down. I think I kind Webb said. “In certain parts of the golf course of got a little bit tired, but I finished with two really where they can carry parts that I can’t, I’m 40 yards good pars, so I’m happy.” Kuwait Shooting Complex behind them, so I’m the little short one out there Defending champion Stacy Lewis was 4 under trying to keep up with the big girls.” after her second straight 70. She had a double Korda birdied three of the four par-5 holes. “I bogey in the par-3 14th after hitting in the water. By Abdellatif Sharaa Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Oman and within the touristic variety pro- rules from coach Abdallah reached every single one today, so that’s been real- “I made too many mistakes and you can’t do it Qatar. gram at Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Barakat. ly nice,” Korda said. “Yeah, we give Webby a hard when people are shooting lights out,” said the sec- KUWAIT: A delegation of officials The guests were welcomed at Olympic Shooting Complex, The guests were impressed time. She did outdrive me on the first hole today ond-ranked Lewis, the winner this year in consecu- of Gulf Youth Hostels visited the club by Assistant Treasurer which is something we are proud with what they saw, adding that and she’s like, ‘What’s going on?’ And I’m like, ‘Did tive events in Singapore and Phoenix. Michelle Wie Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Olympic Adnan Al-Ibrahim, who gave them off. this is considered a pride for all you work out last night?’ ... We were just keeping it missed the cut with rounds of 74 and 75. Lincicome Shooting Complex. The visit was a brief on the establishment of Assistant treasurer Adnan Al- GCC countries, not only Kuwait. kind of light out there and having a good time.” also missed the cut, shooting 75-70.—AP supervised by KSSC Secretary Kuwait Shooting Sport Club and Ibrahim invited guests to a tour of Secretary General of UAE society General Obaid Al-Osaimi, as a full the most notable achievements the club, then they were allowed for youth hostels Salim bin program was prepared for the vis- by Kuwait’s shooters including the to shoot at clay targets in the Suleiman said the visit to KSSC Hall of Famer Venturi dies it. two Olympic medals in Sydney sporting range. The guest also gave us a new motivation as we The guests are in Kuwait to 2000 and London 2012. had a look at the Air Pistol and discovered shooting sport can be CALIFORNIA: Former US Open champion and World Golf Hall of Fame as part of the class of participate in the meeting of Director of Kuwait Committee Rifle 10M range, and practiced practiced by any one, contrary to television broadcaster Ken Venturi, a 14-times 2013. “But to fans around the United States heads of youth hostels in GCC of Youth Hostels Ahmad Ayesh shooting thereafter a brief expla- other sports. Mementos were winner on the PGA Tour, died on Friday at the and around the world, he was the conduit of countries representing Saudi said KSSC is the first site visited nation of safety measures and exchanged at the end of the visit. age of 82 following various health complica- what PGA Tour level golf was to those fans for tions. an incredible 35-year broadcast career which Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame spanned many, many careers on the PGA Tour. just 11 days ago, Venturi had been in hospital “Ken Venturi was a fixture to the game of for the last two months for a spinal infection, golf for fans everywhere in terms of his ability pneumonia and an intestinal infection, the to analyse the game and excite fans about the PGA Tour said in a statement. Venturi’s son, play they were watching.” Matt, said his father had died in a hospital in Venturi, a San Francisco native who Rancho Mirage, California, where he had been learned to play golf at Harding Park, living for several years. The highlight of described his induction into the Hall of Fame Venturi’s playing career came in the 1964 US as “just an honour” when speaking on a con- Open at Congressional Country Club where ference call from Pebble Beach Golf Links in he overcame 100-degree temperatures and California. severe dehydration to win his only major “The greatest reward in life is to be championship. He was forced to quit competi- remembered and I thank the World Golf Hall tive golf because of carpal tunnel syndrome of Fame for remembering me,” Venturi said. “I in 1967. The following year, he joined CBS tel- was taught by Byron Nelson and I asked him evision as an analyst and enjoyed a lengthy one time, ‘How could I ever repay you for all career as one of the most insightful and you’ve done for me?’ He said, ‘Ken, be good to respected figures in the game. the game and give back.’ “He played on the Ryder Cup in 1965, he “And that’s what I’ve tried to do because captained the U.S. Presidents Cup in 2000,” I’ve said many times, the world will never PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem said last remember you for what you take from it, but Guests are being instructed on the use of air rifles Ahmad Ayesh hands Adnan Al-Ibrahim October after Venturi was voted into the only what you leave behind.”—Reuters a memento SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 SPORTS

Michael Phelps Michael Phelps planning comeback

NEW YORK: Is Michael Phelps planning a Phelps has said repeatedly his swim- Associated Press, after beating out LeBron even joked that the only way he would world anti-doping policy, meaning there’s comeback? A report Friday night from ming career was over after winning 18 gold James for male athlete of the year, Phelps compete in Rio would be if he qualified in no chance of competing at this summer’s WBBH, an NBC television affiliate in Fort medals and 22 medals overall, both totals stressed repeatedly that he had no plans to golf, which is rejoining the Olympic pro- world championships in Barcelona even if Myers, Fla., said Phelps will return to swim- far more than any other Olympian. He return to competitive swimming. He said gram in 2016. he could somehow get into condition. ming with an eye toward competing at the retired at the age of 27 immediately after London, where he captured four gold Last week, Phelps participated in an That would peg his return to competi- 2016 Rio Olympics. The three-paragraph last summer’s London Games. medals and two silvers, was the perfect way event prior to the Tour Championship at tion at sometime early next year, leaving story on the station’s Web site was posted There was no other immediate com- to close his career. the TPC Sawgrass in Florida. He also plenty of time to get in peak shape and by news anchor Peter Busch, who is the son ment from the Phelps camp. A message “I wanted to leave that way,” he said. “I’m cheered his hometown Baltimore Ravens begin gearing up for the 2015 worlds in of Frank Busch, director of the U.S. national was left with one of his longtime agents, sure I could come back in another four on their way to the Super Bowl, attending Russia and, of course, the next Olympics. swim team. Drew Johnson. Officials at USA Swimming years, but why? I’ve done everything I the title game at New Orleans with a large The timing of the report was intriguing. “The greatest Olympian of all time isn’t also didn’t immediately respond to a wanted to do. There’s no point in me com- group of family and friends. Phelps’ coach, Bob Bowman, took a sabbati- hanging up his swimsuit, after all,” the request for comment. ing back. Everybody is like, ‘You’re going to Phelps apparently spent Friday swim- cal from the deck after London but was set report said, without citing any sources. Just last weekend, longtime rival Ryan come back.’ And I’m like, ‘No, I’m not.’ I’ve ming at the Interlachen Country Club in to work with a group including three-time Phelps went on Twitter to downplay the Lochte was clearly skeptical that Phelps done everything I wanted to do in this Edina, Minn. Lifeguard Stephen Timmes Olympic gold medalist Allison Schmitt dur- report, but he didn’t specifically deny it would stick with his decision to retire from sport. I don’t know a lot of people who can posted a picture on Instagram that showed ing high-altitude workouts at the national either. “Why do I keep getting texts about a sport he dominated for the past decade, say that.” Phelps, looking extremely fit if not in top training center in Colorado Springs, leading coming back?” he wrote. “Do (people) really especially when so many swimmers are After the Olympics, Phelps turned his condition, smiling and posing poolside. up to the national championships in believe everything they hear or read? There competing well into their 30s. attention to golf, filming a show with “Lifeguarded for and swam with Michael Indianapolis next month. Bowman also is are (too) many (people) in the world that “I can’t really talk about it,” Lochte said, famed instructor Hank Haney for the Golf Phelps at work today,” Timmes wrote. “I love coaching the U.S. men’s team in Barcelona. think they have a ‘story.’” Busch followed breaking into a sly grin during a Grand Prix Channel, signing an endorsement deal with my job.” If Phelps does come back, he There was no word on whether Phelps with a tweet that said he felt “very confi- meet in Charlotte, N.C. “Who knows?” Ping and indicating a desire to see how far would have to wait at least nine months to might be among the swimmers taking part dent with my info. Guess we’ll see.” In an interview last December with The he could progress with a new sport. He swim in a sanctioned event under the in the Colorado workouts.—AP Several Wallabies injured as Waratahs defeat Brumbies

SYDNEY: Hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau fractured his immediate impact. Five minutes after the break, he fullback Jesse Mogg converted three penalties in forearm and several other Wallabies were injured drew two defenders and drilled a brilliant pass to 10 minutes to give his side a 22-16 lead with 17 as the New South Wales Waratahs beat Super flanker Michael Hooper, who turned on the after- minutes to play. Two minutes later, though, Barnes Rugby leaders ACT Brumbies 28-22 at Sydney’s burners to score in the corner. Barnes converted to glided through the Brumbies defence and crashed Olympic Stadium yesterday. square up the scores at 13-13 and then put the over the line under two tacklers to put the On the eve of the announcement of the prelimi- home side ahead with a penalty before Brumbies Waratahs within a point of the lead.—Reuters nary squad for three tests against the British and Irish Lions, likely selections Polota-Nau, flanker George Smith (knee) as well as centres Christian Lealiifano (leg), Rob Horne (eye) and Pat McCabe Crusaders down Blues (leg) left the field injured. There was better news for the watching CHRISTCHURCH: The Canterbury Crusaders out- “You’ve got to build momentum going into the Wallabies coach Robbie Deans in the performance muscled the Auckland Blues 23-3 yesterday to end of the season and everyone’s really excited of Waratahs playmaker Berrick Barnes, who came leapfrog their arch-rivals and claim second spot in about getting up every week. The boys really off the bench at halftime to score a fine individual the New Zealand Super 15 conference. fronted up tonight.” The Blues started brightly, try, set up another and kick seven points. The Crusaders scored two tries to nil, gaining forcing a turnover in the first minute and taking The victory, sealed by winger Peter Betham’s try momentum as the match wore on in front of a the ball through 14 phases before the Crusaders six minutes from time, kept the Waratahs in the sell-out crowd to continue the Blues’ dismal record defenders dragged Frank Halai into touch. hunt for a spot in the Super Rugby playoffs and in Christchurch, where they have not won since They attacked down the flanks but it was the delighted skipper Dave Dennis. 2004. Over the years, matches between the two Crusaders who drew first blood with a penalty to “We were probably off in a few areas but still best-performed New Zealand teams in Super rug- Tom Taylor after 22 minutes. won the match, that’s something we’ve been work- by history-the Blues holding three titles and the Crusaders centre Ryan Crotty then charged ing on,” the flanker said in a pitchside interview. “It Crusaders a record seven-have developed into down a clearing kick from the Blues and darted was always going to be physical so you were fierce derbies between the North and South over the line for a try, with Taylor adding the con- always going to get those sort of injuries.” Islands. However, both sides this season are trail- version. They almost had a second at half-time but Smith, who had been expected to be recalled ing defending champions the Waikato Chiefs for Blues lock Calum Retallick illegally swatted down for the Lions series, led the Brumbies back row who the coveted New Zealand conference top spot a pass to Luke Romano as he shaped for a run at dominated the breakdown before his departure, which guarantees a play-off berth, adding extra the line, earning a yellow card for his efforts and CHINA: Mary Saxa of the US competes in the women’s pole vault event at the edge to the encounter. gifting the Crusaders another penalty. The Diamond League athletics meeting in Shanghai. —AFP which had prevented the Waratahs from getting the quick ball their new attacking style required. Blues coach John Kirwan predicted Test-match Crusaders made the most of their one-man The Brumbies started the brighter and number intensity before the game and it lived up to the advantage after the restart when Owen Franks Jamaicans sweep sprints at eight Ben Mowen did his Wallabies chances no billing in the first half, played at a furious pace as scored a converted try through a driving maul harm by crashing over the line to score the first try both sides looked to pass the ball in attack and from the line-out, with the South Islanders adding Diamond League meet of the match after 22 minutes. displayed committed defence. another penalty shortly after to make it 23-3. The Centre Tevita Kuridrani then charged down But the Crusaders stamped their authority on Blues thought they had a try when Halai crossed SHANGHAI: Jamaica dominated the drawal of 2012 Olympic silver medalist Waratahs winger Drew Mitchell’s defensive kick the match in the second half, shrugging off some in the 62nd minute but the referee ruled he had sprints at the Diamond League meet in Yohan Blake due to injury. Two-time three minutes before halftime to send the visitors patchy performances early in their campaign to been held up after television replays proved Shanghai yesterday, with Shelly-Ann Fraser- Olympic champion Usain Bolt is also taking into the break 13-6 up. again show they can lift as the business end of the inconclusive. Pryce winning the women’s 100 meters and a break from the 200 to focus on the 100. Barnes, who had played less than a half of rugby season approaches. “Every game is a big one, a From there, the steam went out of the Blues Warren Weir capturing gold in the men’s Gatlin, a former Olympic champion, fol- this season because of injuries, came on as a half- must win,” said halfback Andy Ellis, who celebrat- challenge and the Crusaders comfortable closed 200. lowed up his win in the 100 in Doha last time replacement for Horne, though, and had an ed his 100th appearance for the team. out the match.—AFP Jason Richardson of the United States week with another strong performance in won the 110 hurdles, edging countryman Shanghai. He returned to sprinting last year Ryan Wilson and China’s Xie Wenjun at the after serving a four-year ban for doping. In line. the 110 hurdles, Richardson timed 13.23 Marquez Fraser-Pryce, a two-time Olympic win- seconds to beat Wilson in 13.25 and Xie in ner, ran 10.93 seconds to beat Nigeria’s 13.28. London Olympic champion Aries Blessing Okagbare and defending world Merritt pulled up before the first hurdle clinches champion Carmelita Jeter, who pulled up at after having felt leg cramp during his the finish with an apparent leg injury. warm-up. Jeter fell to the track after the race and Olympic champion Kirani James of MotoGP lay on her back for several seconds before Grenada extended his dominance in the being carried off on a stretcher. Meet 400, comfortably beating American FRANCE: World championship leader Marc Marquez, riding a organizers said the American would under- Leshawn Merritt in a time of 44.02 to match Honda, took his second pole position in MotoGP when he go tests to determine the nature of the Jeremy Wariner’s Shanghai Diamond clocked the best time in the second qualifying session of the injury. Fraser-Pryce jumped out to a quick League meet record. Asbel Kiprop of Kenya French Grand Prix in Le Mans yesterday. start and held on as Okagbare finished in outsprinted Mekonnen Gebremedhin The 20-year-old Spanish rookie, who became the youngest 11 seconds flat. down the final stretch to win the men’s MotoGP winner when he won the Grand Prix of the Americas The Jamaican is off to a strong start this 1,500, lunging across the finish line in last month, clocked one minute 32.187 seconds and beat season, following on from winning the 200 3:32.39, just four-tenths of a second ahead compatriot Jorge Lorenzo on a Yamaha by 0.030 of a second. in the season-opening Diamond League of the Ethiopian. Yelena Isinbayeva won the Italian Andrea Dovizioso was third, 0.416 off the pace. “I’m meet last week in Doha, Qatar. women’s pole vault in Shanghai for the fifth very happy. I had the confidence,” Marquez said. Dani Pedrosa Weir, the bronze medalist at the London time with a leap of 4.70 meters. China’s Li crashed but was back on his bike to take the sixth fastest time Olympics, timed 20.18 seconds to hold off Jinzhe was the surprise winner in the men’s behind Britain’s Cal Crutchlow and German Stefan Bradl, who American Justin Gatlin and Jason Young of long jump with a leap of 8.34 meters, beat- were fourth and fifth respectively. Nine-times world champion LE MANS: Spanish rider Marc Marquez drives his Honda during the qualifying Jamaica in the final few strides. ing Russia’s Aleksandr Menkov and Olympic Valentino Rossi, looking to clinch his 80th career MotoGP, session at Le Mans’ circuit, western France on the eve of the French motorcy- The field was weakened by the with- champion Greg Rutherford of Britain.—AP could manage eighth place only.—Reuters cling Grand Prix. Marquez clocked the pole position in 1’33.187. —AFP SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 SPORTS Southee treble Photo of the day rocks England

LONDON: Tim Southee bowled New covers for four to complete a 78-ball fifty Zealand back into contention in the first featuring six boundaries. Test against England with a dramatic But in sight of beating the Test-best 73 burst late on the third day at Lord’s yes- he made against India on debut in terday. At stumps, England were 180 for Nagpur in December, the 22-year-old, six in their second innings-a lead of 205 promoted up the order because Ian Bell runs. was suffering with flu, inside edged England were in the process of build- Southee on to his stumps. Root’s ing a sound position at 159 for two when Yorkshire colleague Jonny Bairstow, top- paceman Southee wrested back the ini- scorer in England’s first innings with 41, tiative with three wickets for four runs in was then yorked off his foot by Southee 17 balls. for five. In all, England lost four wickets for 12 Matt Prior, so often England’s saviour runs to throw the first of this two-Test with the bat, completed a pair when he series wide open, although their lead pulled Southee straight to square leg was now almost as much as New before Trott’s painstaking innings ended Zealand’s meagre first innings 207. when he was bowled by a sharply turn- Jonathan Trott (56) and Joe Root (71) ing off-break from part-time spinner shared a third-wicket stand of 123 before Kane Williamson. the latter’s exit sparked England’s slump. Southee had close figures of three for They had steadied the ship after 34 in 14 overs. Nightwatchman Steven England captain Alastair Cook, caught in Finn was six not out and Ian Bell nought the slips off Trent Boult and fellow open- not out at stumps. Before lunch, England er Nick Compton, bowled by Neil dismissed New Zealand for 207 in reply Wagner, had both fallen with the total on to their first innings 232 — a lead of 25 36. runs. James Anderson, who on Friday Shortly after tea, Root was nearly run had become only the fourth England out when he dabbed the ball onto the bowler to take 300 Test wickets, finished offside and set off for a single. Trott, how- with five wickets for 47 runs in 24 overs. ever, wasn’t interested and Root, from It was the 30-year-old Lancashire half-way down the pitch, had to turn swing bowler’s 13th five-wicket or better back. innings return in an 81 Test-career that Alex Sorgente performs during the X Games in Barcelona, Spain. www.redbullcontentpool.com A direct hit by New Zealand captain started at Lord’s a decade ago. Brendon McCullum would have seen the Having taken three wickets on Friday, Yorkshireman run out but the diving including that of New Zealand top scorer Serena in Italian Open final Root just did enough as wicket-keeper BJ Ross Taylor (66), Anderson returned Watling tried to make the best of a bad Saturday figures of two for 15 in nine ROME: A week out from the French Open, Serena seeded Roberta Vinci and two-time Rome winner winning. “I was unhappy with some things today,” return with a despairing effort of his overs. Williams is only one victory away from winning her Jelena Jankovic. she said. “I want to do well here as well as (in Paris).” own. He was well supported by Finn (four fourth consecutive title this year. Solid off both sides and an agile mover, the It’s Azarenka’s first final since beating Williams Watling injured his knee in the for 63) although it was Stuart Broad, the The top-ranked American overcame an early 2008 French Open girls champion took a set off for the title in February at Doha, Qatar. That fol- process and was replaced behind the third member of England’s seam trio, break of her serve to ease past Romanian qualifier Williams in their only previous meeting in the sec- lowed her Australian Open victory. Since then, stumps by McCullum, who had given up who had dangerman McCullum caught Simona Halep 6-3, 6-0 yesterday and reached the ond round of Wimbledon two years ago. Halep Azarenka has been slowed by right ankle and left keeping in Tests because of knee and behind for two. Williamson, 44 not out Italian Open final, extending her career-best win- tested Williams again at the start of this match, foot injuries. back problems. overnight, marked his first Test in ning run to 23 matches. Williams is coming off con- angling baseline shots to the corners to force the Errani reached last year’s French Open final and Root, in only his fifth Test and first in England with 60 before he was caught secutive titles in Miami; Charleston, South Carolina; 15-time Grand Slam winner into errors. was the first Italian semifinalist in this tournament England, punched Wagner through the behind off Anderson.—AFP and Madrid last week. Halep broke to take a 2-1 lead in the first set, since Raffaella Reggi won the 1985 event in In today’s final, Williams will face third-seeded but Williams broke right back and cruised from Taranto. Victoria Azarenka, who kept her concentration there as she gained the measure of her opponent Azarenka did well to take the Foro Italico crowd through two rain delays to beat seventh-seeded and began to win the longer rallies. out of the match early on, and never trailed in the Sara Errani 6-0, 7-5. Williams went directly to the practice court after second set.—AP In the men’s semifinals, six-time champion Rafael Nadal faces sixth-seeded Tomas Berdych and Roger Federer meets 36th-ranked Benoit Paire of France. Williams’ only title at this clay-court event came in 2002, when she beat Justine Henin in the final. That was also the year she won her only French Open title. Last year in Paris, Williams lost in the opening round of a major for the first time, falling to 111th-ranked Virginie Razzano of France. Roland Garros starts next Sunday. “I love the clay. I haven’t had many wins at Roland Garros but I do love it. I love to slide,” Williams said. “My goal is just to win a match there this year.” Williams has twice won 21 in a row before, although both of those runs came a decade ago, in 2002 and 2003. Martina Navratilova established the LONDON: England’s Steven Finn plays a shot during the third day of the first longest women’s win run in the Open Era at 74 International Test cricket match between England and New Zealand at Lord’s matches in 1984. At 31, Williams is back at the top cricket ground.—AFP of her game after missing 11 months in 2010 and 2011 with a right foot injury and a pulmonary embolism. SCOREBOARD The 64th-ranked Halep entered with an impres- sive run herself, having beaten former top-10 play- er Daniela Hantuchova to qualify then 2009 French LONDON, United Kingdom: Scoreboard at stumps on the third day of the first Test Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova in the first between England and New Zealand at Lord’s yesterday: round. That was followed in succession with wins ITALY: US Serena Williams returns the ball to Simona Halep from Romania during England 1st Innings 232 (T Southee 4- Swann 8-0-19-0; Trott 1-0-2-0. over fourth-seeded Agnieszka Radwanksa, 13th- their Roma WTA Masters semi-final tennis match. —AFP 58, N Wagner 3-70) New Zealand 1st Innings (overnight: England 2nd Innings 153-4) A. Cook c Brownlie b Boult 21 Djokovic falls in Rome P. Fulton c Swann b Anderson 2 N. Compton b Wagner 15 H. Rutherford c Cook b Anderson 4 J. Trott b Williamson 56 ROME: Czech Tomas Berdych snapped Nadal, looking for his sixth title in eight number Serena Williams pulverised even create a break point until the top K. Williamson c Prior b Anderson 60 J. Root b Southee 71 a run of 11 consecutive defeats by tournaments since returning from Spaniard Carla Suarez Navarro 6-2 6-0 seed served for the match at 5-3 in the R. Taylor lbw b Anderson 66 J. Bairstow b Southee 5 world number one Novak Djokovic to injury, told reporters. to reach the last four but there will be second set, told reporters. Djokovic, D. Brownlie lbw b Finn 23 M. Prior c sub (Guptill) b Southee 0 reach the semi-finals of the Rome “I am extremely happy. I think I no re-run of last week’s Madrid final who also lost early in the Madrid Open B. McCullum c Prior b Broad 2 S. Finn not out 6 Masters before Rafa Nadal was made a huge effort both in the second after Maria Sharapova was forced to last week, said he had let Berdych back BJ Watling c Prior b Finn 17 I. Bell not out 0 stretched to the limit against David set when I was 4-0 down and in the withdraw from her quarter-final against into the match. T. Southee c Root b Finn 12 Extras (b3, w1, nb2) 6 Ferrer on Friday. third to get past a fantastic opponent.” Sara Errani because of illness. “It was a very weird match,” he told B. Martin b Anderson 0 Total (6 wkts, 59 overs, 279 mins) 180 Berdych clawed his way back from a Frenchman Benoit Paire dropped just Berdych had not tasted victory over reporters. “I lost concentration and I N. Wagner not out 6 Fall of wickets: 1-36 (Cook), 2-36 6-2 5-2 deficit to stun the Serbian top one game against Marcel Granollers of Djokovic since the 2010 Wimbledon started to play too defensively and did T. Boult c Anderson b Finn 0 (Compton), 3-159 (Root), 4-167 (Bairstow), seed 2-6 7-5 6-4 and set up a semi-final Spain to reach his first Masters Series semi-finals and was on the brink of a not convert my opportunities and I lost Extras (b4, lb8, nb3) 15 5-171 (Prior), 6-171 (Trott) meeting with Nadal, who for the sec- semi-final where he will play second 12th straight loss to the Serbian before this match on my own. “I need to make Total (all out, 69 overs, 336 mins) 207 To bat: S Broad, G Swann, J Anderson ond week running outlasted compatri- seed Roger Federer. The Swiss over- an amazing transformation. The clean- sure that I don’t have highs and lows. Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Rutherford), 2-7 Bowling: Boult 12-3-42-1; Southee 14-3- ot Ferrer in a fierce claycourt scrap. came Poland’s Jerzy Janowicz 6-4 7-6. hitting world number six won five I’m sure that I will be ready for Paris.” (Fulton), 3-100 (Taylor), 4-147 34-3; Wagner 13-2-44-1 (1nb, 1w); Nadal won 6-4 4-6 6-2 for his ninth After easing through the first set, games in a row to level the match and Fifteen-times grand slam champion (Brownlie), 5-155 (McCullum), 6-177 Martin 13-2-40-0 (1nb); Williamson 7-1-17- consecutive victory over Ferrer who hit Federer survived a scare when he was then dominated the deciding set to Williams is enjoying the longest win- (Williamson), 7-194 (Southee), 8-195 1. the Mallorcan with every weapon in his broken in the opening game of the sec- leave Djokovic with food for thought ning streak of her illustrious career, her (Martin), 9-207 (Watling), 10-207 (Boult) Match position: England lead by 205 runs locker but still came up short as he did ond, but after clawing his way back to before the French Open. rout of Suarez-Navarro stretching her Bowling: Anderson 24-11-47-5; Broad 21- with four second innings wickets stand- in Madrid last week. 5-5, he took the tiebreak for the loss of “It’s a special victory. I was on 11 run to 22. “I guess this is the best period 4-64-1 (2nb); Finn 15-3-63-4 (1nb); ing. “It was an extremely tough match, just two points. defeats in a row (against Djokovic) and in my career but I don’t really think David always takes you to the limit,” In the women’s event top world it had to stop,” Berdych, who did not about it,” the American said. —Reuters Orb favored to take Preakness

BALTIMORE: Orb is ready for his whirl Orb extended his winning streak to Baffert has been there before. Three of Derby in April. at history. The Kentucky Derby winner five with a thrilling victory in the Derby his five Preakness winners had also “Orb’s not like a one-race hit. All was in a playful mood the day before two weeks ago, when jockey Joel won the Derby, but were unable to year long he’s been super impressive,” the Preakness, making faces for pho- Rosario patiently guided the colt from complete the Triple Crown with a win said Goldencents trainer Doug O’Neill, tographers between nibbles of grass 17th to first in the final half mile over a in the Belmont. He says the Preakness who won the Derby and Preakness last outside his stall at Pimlico Race Course. sloppy track. is the least stressful of the three races. year with I’ll Have Another, only to “I couldn’t be more pleased with In the Preakness, Orb will break “There is absolutely no pressure, scratch the colt the day before the the way he’s doing,” trainer Shug from the No. 1 post, a spot that has believe it or not because you’ve just Belmont because of a tendon injury. McGaughey said at his final pre- seen only one winner - Tabasco Cat in won the Derby,” he said. “You’re flying “But we’ve seen Goldencents do some Preakness media briefing Friday morn- 1994 - since 1961. high and everybody’s excited. You brilliant things in the afternoon. If he ing. “I can’t see any adversity. I would “Who knows how this race is going don’t think about it. The next one (the does, I think he can beat him.” have to think it would take a pretty to go, but I don’t think it will be a prob- Belmont) is the pressure.” Getting to It might be Itsmyluckyday’s lucky darn good horse to beat him if he goes lem,” Rosario said of the inside post. the next one may sound easy. It isn’t. day. He’s another highly regarded colt over and runs his race.” “He’s a horse that comes from behind, Six of the past eight Derby winners did who did not handle the sloppy track If he can defeat eight rivals in the 1 so I really don’t think it will affect him. not win the Preakness, and and finished 15th in the Derby. 3-16-mile Preakness late yesterday, it I’m just excited to go into this with a McGaughey is well aware of the pit- “He’s given me every sign that he’s would set up a Triple Crown try in the horse who has a chance to win.” A falls. ready for the war; he’s ready for the Belmont Stakes in three weeks. Orb is chance? While rival trainers aren’t con- “There are a lot of ways you can race; he’s ready for the battle,” trainer the even-money favorite, and there’s a ceding the race, most agree Orb is the lose. Freaky things can happen,” he Eddie Plesa Jr., said. “Let’s just get it on.” growing feeling that this 3-year-old best of the bunch. said. “You hope he doesn’t get in any Or it could be Departing, one of the bay colt may be special enough to give “Orb, he’s a freak. Right now, every- trouble, you hope he handles the three horses in the race who did not thoroughbred racing its first Triple body should be rooting for Orb, except track, you hope he handles the kick- run in the Derby. Orb knows Departing Crown champion since Affirmed in for the connections of the other horses back of the dirt, you hope he handles well - the two were pals growing up at 1978. in the race,” trainer Bob Baffert said - the day.” Claiborne Farm in Paris, Ky., and ran “We’d sure love to have that oppor- and he’s got a horse in the race, 12-1 Among the challengers are around together in the same field. The tunity,” a relaxed and confident-sound- choice Govenor Charlie. “Anybody Goldencents, who did not take to the gelding has won four of five starts, and BALTIMORE: Exercise rider Jennifer Patterson takes Kentucky Derby winner ing McGaughey said. “Probably the who’s not rooting for Orb, there’s slop at Churchill Downs and finished comes into the Preakness off a win in Orb over the track in preparation for the 138th Preakness Stakes at Pimlico racing world would love to see it, too.” something mentally wrong with them.” 17th after winning the Santa Anita the Illinois Derby.—AP Race Course. —AFP SPORTS SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013

Real and Mourinho contemplate ‘disastrous’ season

MADRID: Real Madrid and Jose since 2002, Perez has splurged more referee and a red card for Ronaldo for earning the coach’s wrath after a public post-match TV interview on Friday, Mourinho were sifting through the than 400 million euros ($513 million) on kicking out at Atletico captain Gabi and defence of Casillas. Butragueno said it was not the right debris of what the Portuguese coach players since returning to lead the club catching him in the face. The central defender was left out of time to discuss it. termed a “disastrous” 2012-13 campaign in 2009, including a record 94 million on Mourinho, who has done little to the squad entirely on Friday, while “The Madrid family is sad, all of us,” he after Friday’s King’s Cup final defeat left Cristiano Ronaldo. quash speculation he is on his way back Mourinho again selected Diego Lopez said. “But now is the time to applaud our the world’s richest club without a major That investment has so far yielded to Chelsea, spent a large part of his post- for the goalkeeping slot. players and our fans, who supported us trophy for the season. one King’s Cup in 2011 in Mourinho’s match press conference defending his Before recent games at the Bernabeu, until the end.” The 2-1 reverse to Atletico Madrid at first season and a La Liga title last term record at Real while claiming that a large section of the crowd have Mourinho, who has a contract until their own Bernabeu stadium meant with a record points haul of 100, a mea- Atletico had not deserved to win the cheered Casillas when his name has June 2016, said he would sit down with Mourinho, widely expected to move on gre haul for a club as ambitious and as match. “What for many would be a good been read out among the list of substi- Perez after Real’s final two La Liga at the end of this term, finished a season wealthy as Real. The nine-times kings of season is my worst,” he told reporters. tutes while roundly whistling Mourinho. matches to decide whether he will con- without significant silverware for the Europe have fallen in the semi-finals of “We have been close but that does not All this leaves Perez in a tricky posi- tinue. If he does stay, he will be in first time in his otherwise glittering the Champions League in each of exist in football.” tion and a number of reports have sug- charge of a divided dressing room and a career. Mourinho’s three campaigns and surren- Always outspoken and often contro- gested he is lining up Paris St Germain’s club where a significant section of the It represents a huge setback for the dered their La Liga title to Barcelona last versial, Mourinho has alienated some Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti as a home support have lost faith in him. self-appointed “special one”, as well as weekend, a fourth for their arch rivals in Real fans in recent months with his treat- replacement for Mourinho. Atletico’s fans gleefully mocked for Real president Florentino Perez, who five years. ment of club captain and goalkeeper Perez rarely speaks in public - his call their Real counterparts at the lured Mourinho from Inter Milan at great Friday’s extra time defeat to Atletico Iker Casillas, who has been benched for unity on his last appearance was Bernabeu on Friday with their ironic expense in 2010 and has constantly was made even more painful — and since returning from a broken hand. ignored by Mourinho - and has appoint- chants of “Mourinho stay! Mourinho referred to him as “the world’s best damaging for the club’s image — by the Dressing room divisions burst into ed club director Emilio Butragueno, a stay!” but a change of coach may now coach”. Obsessed with winning the 10th dismissal of Mourinho from the bench the open in the last few weeks, with former player, as Real’s spokesman. be inevitable after the events of recent European crown that has eluded Real for furiously protesting a decision by the Mourinho’s Portuguese compatriot Pepe Questioned about the future in a weeks.—Reuters Wenger relieved to control Euro fight

NEWCASTLE: Arsene Wenger insists he would have been happy to see Arsenal’s Champions League hopes go to the final day when his side appeared out of the race for a top four finish earlier this season. Wenger’s side trailed Tottenham by seven points in March, but now play their final fixture at Newcastle on Sunday knowing victory will guarantee they finish at least fourth and secure a spot in the Champions League qualification rounds. Should Chelsea fail to beat Everton, they could yet finish third, possibly via a play-off if the two clubs finish level on points, goal differ- ence and goals scored. ITALY: Italian Vincenzo Nibali celebrates on the podium the pink jersey after the 180 The uncertainty ensures there will be some kms14th stage of the 96th Giro d’Italia going from Cervere to Bardonecchia - nerves at St James’ Park. But Gunners boss Jafferau. —AFP Wenger said: “I know for a long time that for us, when we were seven points behind, we would all be happy that it goes to the last day. Nibali extends Giro lead “We are in a position where nobody expect- ROME: Italian Vincenzo Nibali extended his Colombian Rigoberto Uran (Team Sky) fell ed us to be. We have our destiny in our hands, lead over Australia’s Cadel Evans as Mauro off the pace in a final kilometre which our fate in our hands and that’s what you fight Santambrogio won a shortened 14th stage proved just too steep for the duo. for in the game. of the Giro d’Italia to claim his maiden win Nibali’s hopes of a maiden Giro win were “It is a game that we will now want to win but at least we fought back to be in a position on the race yesterday. boosted earlier this week when main rival Arsene Wenger Nibali, of the Astana team, had launched Bradley Wiggins (Team Sky) and defending where we master our own fate.” a decisive attack in the final kilometres and champion Ryder Hesjedal (Garmin) pulled Asked about the prospect of a play-off with fielder due to have an ankle operation at the tough for us, and there’s something riding on came over the finish line in second place out due to illness. Chelsea, he added: “I would fancy that. A play- end of the season. the game for Arsenal which I think is good for after giving his fellow Italian the nod to After his late attack, the Sicilian now has off exists only if win our game, so let’s win the However, French striker Olivier Giroud us.” take the stage win unhindered. a lead of over one minute on Evans, and game and see what happens. returns for the Gunners after serving a three- Pardew was forced to clarify his comments “I can’t believe it, I came to the Giro to 2:46 on Uran, who has taken the mantle of “The biggest task is to win the game and not match suspension. Newcastle manager Alan after suggesting tongue in cheek this week that win a stage and have done it,” said Sky’s team leader after Wiggins’s retirement speculate too much on what happens after Pardew has challenged his players to end a tur- he didn’t mind if his side suffered a 4-0 defeat Santambrogio, who rides for the modest from the race. because the first compulsory thing we face is to bulent season on a high by playing a part in at the hands of Wenger’s men. Vini Fantni team. Given the “horrible” “It was very cold... a very difficult stage,” win the game on Sunday.” frustrating Arsenal’s Champions League hopes. “I’ve had a few Tottenham fans remind me weather conditions, it will be one he said the Italian, who finished third in last Wenger also revealed he is close to signing Pardew’s side have conceded nine goals in about that comment, but it was made purely remembers. year’s Tour de France behind Wiggins and Auxerre forward Yaya Sanogo. “We are their last two home games, and were humbled out of relief after the victory at QPR, and was “The whole day the weather was horri- Chris Froome. advanced with him, but it is not done,” he said. 7-3 at the Emirates Stadium in December. definitely tongue in cheek,” he added. ble. It was freezing cold but thankfully the “When I attacked, I saw Mauro react and “I am very confident. “He is a young striker who They only sealed their Premier League future Steve Harper, the 38-year-old goalkeeper team rallied behind me.” Evans, the 2011 we went off together. All I thought about is promising, and has a big talent.” Arsenal’s with victory last weekend at QPR, but could fin- who will leave in the summer, plays his 199th Tour de France champion, who started the was taking as much time as possible.” Spanish midfielder Mikel Arteta is set to miss ish as high as 10th if they inflict the Gunners’ and final game for Newcastle as he brings the day 41sec behind Nibali, crossed the finish After the race was shortened by 12km, the game with a calf problem suffered against first defeat on Tyneside since 2006. curtain down on a near two-decade spell at the line 33sec behind and is now 1:26 behind from 180km to 168km, a four-man group Wigan in midweek, while Wenger remains “It’s very important to go out by putting in a club. “He’s been a great servant of this club and Nibali after the Italian collected a 12-sec- broke from the peloton and went on to unsure whether Jack Wislhere is ready to com- good performance for our fans,” Pardew said. an absolutely superb professional,” Pardew ond time bonus. build a lead of nearly eight and a half min- plete a full 90 minutes, with the England mid- “The last couple of home games have been said.—AFP “It was not my best day,” said Evans, who utes. They held a four-minute lead at the believes his victory bid is now compro- foot of the final climb, a 7.3km ascent with mised. “I just couldn’t react when the attack an average gradient of nine percent. from Nibali came. I think that has some- However they were reeled in one by one Rodgers salutes retiring Carragher thing to do with the last couple of days. as the battle for the stage win and for the “I hope this is my worst day in the pickings in the overall race took hold. LIVERPOOL: Liverpool manager Brendan Daniel Agger and Martin Kelly are all set to mountains; otherwise to fight for the win Sunday’s 15th stage, due to finish on the Rodgers admits there is no way that Jamie miss out through illness and injury, while will be difficult.” Yesterday’s stage in the summit of the legendary Galibier climb in Carragher will bow out quietly when he plays Raheem Sterling, Joe Allen and captain Matches on TV high Italian Alps was due to finish in France, has also been altered due to poor his final game before retirement against QPR Steven Gerrard are also absent. Sestriere, but was shortened by organisers weather conditions. (Local Timings) yesterday. The Reds have lost just once in their last 12 due to fears over cold and wet conditions The finish line will now be moved from on the final descent. the Galibier’s altitude of 2642 metres to Carragher, 35, has spent his whole career at matches and Rodgers is confident he will be English Premier League Anfield, winning the Champions League, two able to make greater strides next term with As snow and rain fell at high altitude, 2301 metres, at the site of a statue com- Man City v Norwich 18:00 FA Cups and three League Cups, and the several signings likely in the close-season. the finish line was lowered to 1908 metres memorating fallen Italian champion Marco Abu Dhabi Sports HD Merseyside-born star will fittingly bow out as The January arrivals of Daniel Sturridge at Jafferau, where BMC leader Evans and Pantani.—AFP Swansea v Fulham 18:00 captain for his 737th and last appearance for and Philippe Coutinho have already made a Abu Dhabi Sports HD the Reds. major difference and Rodgers, whose team Liverpool v QPR 18:00 The former England defender started the are certain to finish seventh, is optimistic Abu Dhabi Sports HD Ferguson set for final season behind Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger about closing the gap at the top of the table. Southampton v Stoke City 18:00 in Rodgers’ plans. But in recent months he has “Ultimately we want to be challenging for Abu Dhabi Sports HD played his way back into the team and has fin- trophies and being consistent at the top of goodbye at West Brom Wigan v Aston 18:00 ished the season in impressive form. the league,” he said. “This season was always Abu Dhabi Sports HD LONDON: English football will witness the ond-choice goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard And Rodgers claims Carragher has been going to be the season for building our base Ham United v Reading 18:00 end of an era today when Alex Ferguson that he would start the game. training as hard as ever despite the imminent in order to achieve those objectives. As the Abu Dhabi Sports HD takes charge of Manchester United for the “I stand by that. Anders will be in goal,” end to his career. “He’s in the final week of his season has gone on, we’ve become better. 1,500th and final time in their last game of Ferguson said. “I will play one or two younger Albion v Man United 18:00 career, going into the game against QPR at 35 “The scouts are leaving no stone unturned the season at West Bromwich Albion. Having players, and I want to play Jonny Evans and Abu Dhabi Sports HD waved goodbye to Old Trafford in an emo- Phil Jones at centre-half because they are the years of age,” Rodgers said. in terms of the work they are carrying out in order to get us the players we need to Tottenham v Sunderland 18:00 tional 2-1 win over Swansea City last week- future. Nemanja (Vidic) and Rio (Ferdinand) Abu Dhabi Sports HD end, Ferguson will close the door on his man- will just have to make do with a place on the improve.” Newcastle v Arsenal 18:00 agerial career at The Hawthorns — 26 years, bench.” Meanwhile, QPR’s trip to Anfield will draw a six months and 11 days since his first game at Paul Scholes could make one last appear- line under a disastrous campaign for the west Abu Dhabi Sports HD the United helm, a 2-0 loss at Oxford United ance for United, having announced his retire- Londoners, with relegation to the Chelsea v Everton 18:00 on November 8, 1986. ment last week. Championship inevitable long before it was Abu Dhabi Sports HD It promises to be a day rich in nostalgia for The 38-year-old is only the third player to finally confirmed. Spanish League Ferguson, who will be succeeded by Everton have made more than 700 appearances for Boss Harry Redknapp has already commit- manager David Moyes on July 1. the club, after Bobby Charlton and Ryan ted himself to the club and is hoping to stage Levante v Rayo 13:00 In his final pre-game press conference, he Giggs, and turned out for the 717th time in a major overhaul of the squad before their Al Jazeera Sport +2 cast his mind back to the very beginning of United’s colours against Swansea. Ferguson Deportivo v Espanyol 18:00 his journey as a manager, with Scottish min- must also decide whether or not to hand a promotion bid begins in August. Al Jazeera Sport +2 nows East Sterling in 1974. “I have had 39 start to Wayne Rooney, having left him out of “We need to change things here to give years as a manager,” said the 71-year-old. the squad for the Swansea game after the ourselves a chance of trying to mount a chal- Zaragoza v Bilbao 20:00 “On that day in 1974 when I started at East unsettled striker submitted a transfer request. lenge for next season because it won’t be Al Jazeera Sport +8 Stirling, I had eight players and no goalkeep- United have taken 35 points from a possible easy,” he said. Barcelona v Valladolid 22:00 er. Today I have six goalkeepers and about 39 against West Brom since the Midlands club “We need a group who will be good Al Jazeera Sport +2 100 players. “I remember the old chairman, were promoted to the top flight in 2002, but Brendan Rodgers enough to compete at the top of the Willie Muirhead. He was a great chain smoker. manager Steve Clarke wants his side to finish Championship. We certainly weren’t good Italian League When I asked him for a list of players, he start- the season on a high. Despite a run of just “He knows he’s retiring, but after training enough to compete in the Premier League. Bologna v Genoa 16:00 ed to shake. His cigarette was going 100 miles one win in eight games, West Brom are guar- Al Jazeera Sport +2 an hour. “I had to remind him a couple of days anteed to finish no lower than ninth, which on Thursday he was still in the gymnasium, “I’d like the changes to be extensive later. He gave me a list of eight players and no will be their best performance in the Premier preparing himself with the same commitment because the club needs changing. The team Atalanta v Chievo 16:00 goalkeeper. I said: ‘You know it is advisable to League era. that he has shown his entire career. that’s here hasn’t been good enough and Al Jazeera Sport +1 start with a keeper-are you aware of that?’” “We must have done something right in “He could have had a lazy day. He could would struggle to get out of the Inter v Udinese 21:45 Ferguson will retire with 49 trophies to his the early part of the season in that we never have had a bit of lunch and then shot home, Championship next season. Al Jazeera Sport +4 name, 38 of which he has amassed during a looked close to being dragged into the rele- but he was in the gym preparing his body and “I’m confident we can mount a challenge Roma v Napoli 21:45 record-breaking stint at United in which he gation tussle and there were a lot of teams doing his core work, his flexibility and prepar- next season, but it won’t be easy. The Al Jazeera Sport +9 established himself as one of the most suc- involved this season and we were nowhere ing himself to the maximum to be his best. Championship is full of big clubs - clubs big- Siena v Milan 21:45 cessful coaches in the history of professional near it. And we’ve finished in the top half of “And that says it all about him; that at the ger than QPR, like Leeds United.” Al Jazeera Sport +1 sport. However, for all the inevitable empha- the table again,” Clarke said. end of his career, he is still preparing as if it French striker Loic Remy is available for Cagliari v Lazio 21:45 sis on his past, Ferguson has pledged that his French forward Marc-Antoine Fortune final team selection will be forward-thinking. returns from suspension for West Brom, but was his first game. “He knows the intensity selection despite being arrested on suspicion Al Jazeera Sport +10 The Scot says he intends to field Phil Jones right-back Steven Reid is an injury doubt after and the passion and the quality that is need- of rape earlier in the week. A QPR spokesper- Pescara v Fiorentina 21:45 and Jonny Evans at centre-back, while he has picking up a knock in last weekend’s 4-0 ed because he has been there.” Luis Suarez is son said: “The club can confirm he’s training Al Jazeera Sport +9 also promised to honour a vow made to sec- defeat at Norwich City.—AFP suspended and defenders Martin Skrtel, and will be available for selection.”—AFP Jessica leads Michael Phelps LPGA Classic planning comeback

SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 16 17 Real and Mourinho contemplate ‘disastrous’ season Page 19

GERMANY: Bayern Munich’s striker Mario Gomez plays the ball during the German First Division Bundesliga football match against Borussia Moenchengladbach. — AFP Bayern win thriller on final day

BERLIN: Bayern Munich came from two goals down to seal a 4- at Wembley next Saturday, and despite previously conceding after they stunned Dortmund as winger Sejad Salihovic netted Jurgen Klopp. “We now draw a thick line under the Bundesliga 3 win at Borussia Moenchengladbach, while their Champions only four goals away all season, Bayern leaked three goals in the two penalties in the last 13 minutes to leave them 16th. season and see now if all the players are fit for the final.” League final opponents, Borussia Dortmund lost 2-1 at home to first action-packed 10 minutes. Borussia captain and goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller was Schalke 04 secured their Champions League play-off place Hoffenheim on the final day of the Bundesliga yesterday. Borussia raced into the lead as Austrian defender Martin sent off on 81 minutes for the foul which led to the second with a 2-1 win at Freiburg as an own-goal by Julian Schuster for Champions Bayern dug deep for their 29th league victory in Stranzl headed home, then 66 seconds later striker Mike Hanke, spot-kick. the visitors secured the Royal Blues’ win. 34 matches as Franck Ribery scored twice, then set up Arjen on his last appearance for Borussia, added Gladbach’s second Despite a string of chances to add to Robert Lewandowski’s Freiburg will be joined in the Europa League next season by Robben for the winner after Gladbach had scored three goals in after a mistake by Bayern centre-back Dante. first-half goal, Dortmund conceded an equaliser when centre- Eintracht Frankfurt, who finished sixth after they drew 2-2 at the opening 10 minutes. Munich’s Javi Martinez pulled one back when he converted back Mats Hummels fouled Hoffenheim’s Kevin Volland in the home to 10-man VfL Wolfsburg, who had Japan defender “The first ten minutes didn’t go as we had imagined,” admit- Ribery’s pass on seven minutes, but Bayern went 3-1 down area, giving away a penalty and then limping out of the game. Makoto Hasebe sent off. Hasebe brought down compatriot ted coach Jupp Heynckes after his 1011th and final Bundesliga when Norway’s Havard Nordtveit rolled his shot past Munich Salihovic netted the spot kick on 77 minutes but then Takashi Inui on 36 minutes and was shown a straight red. game, with Pep Guardiola to take charge of Bayern next month. goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. With Heynckes fuming on the side- Weidenfeller fouled Sven Schipplock and was sent off four min- South Korea’s Ji Dong-Won guaranteed Augsburg’s “I had the feeling the team were still at last Saturday’s party lines, Ribery pulled a second back with a crisp shot to make it 3- utes later. As Dortmund had made three substitutions, winger Bundesliga place next season with his side’s final goal in their 3- to celebrate the league title. “But the team slowly got the game 2 on 18 minutes. Kevin Grosskreutz had to step in as emergency goalkeeper. 1 win at home to relegated Greuther Fuerth. under control and we played like we’re used to in the second He then saved Bayern’s blushes by equalising on 53 minutes, Salihovic netted his second spot kick to Hoffenheim’s Fortuna Dusseldorf, who lost 3-0 at Hanover thanks to half. I realised my team wanted to win for me.” before his cross found Robben at the far post, with the Dutch delight and although Dortmund had the ball in the net from Mame Diouf and Didier Ya Konan’s goals, are relegated Bayern finish the season with 25 Bundesliga records, includ- winger tapping home to give Bayern the lead for the first time Marcel Schmelzer’s shot in added time, the referee ruled it out alongside Fuerth. Stefan Kiessling finished as the ing most wins, most points (91), fewest goals conceded (18) just before the hour mark. for offside. Bundesliga top-scorer with 25 goals as he sealed third- and the biggest points lead over the side in second (25). Hoffenheim now face a promotion/relegation play-off “For an hour, we played outstanding football, but were not placed Bayer Leverkusen’s 1-0 win at Hamburg with the Fielding the side likely to start the Champions League final against second division Kaiserslautern to stay in the Bundesliga consistent enough in front of goal,” said Dortmund coach 90th-minute winner. — AFP

Preview Valencia edge closer Villas-Boas fears Euro woe for Spurs to Champions League LONDON: Andre Villas-Boas admits Tottenham go a higher tally of points.” If Tottenham are to MADRID: Valencia took another significant step And Feghouli should have added to their into the final game of the season against improve their challenge next season, they will towards securing Champions League qualifica- advantage in stoppage time as he fired waste- Sunderland bracing themselves for yet more have to strengthen and Villas-Boas admitted he is tion for next season with a 1-0 win at Getafe. fully over when clean through on goal. Champions League disappointment today. an admirer of David Villa, the Barcelona striker Jeremy Mathieu got the only goal of a disap- Meanwhile, Barcelona manager Tito Vilanova After appearing secure in the top four when who has been linked with the north London club. pointing game a minute before half-time as is hoping the target of matching Real Madrid’s they were seven points clear of Arsenal in March, “He is one of the world’s best strikers,” Villas- Ernesto Valverde’s men made it three wins in a league record 100 points will keep his players Villas-Boas’s side welcome Sunderland to White Boas said. “You can see that speculation is grow- row. Roberto Soldado and Sofiane Feghouli motivated when the host Valladolid today. Hart Lane knowing even a victory may not be ing but at the moment we are focused on trying missed good chances to double Valencia’s The Catalans sealed their fourth title in five enough to clinch a place in Europe’s premier club to get fourth spot.” advantage after the break, but Los Che held on years last weekend, but can reach a century of competition. Meanwhile, Sunderland manager Paolo Di to move three points clear of Real Sociedad in points should they win their remaining three Lying fifth, a point behind Arsenal, Spurs could Canio is already looking ahead to pre-season after fourth with the Basques travelling to face Sevilla games and Vilanova wants to finish the cam- again be left frustrated 12 months after being insisting there can be no repeat of his team’s nar- late yesterday. paign strongly. “We have taken 91 points, which denied entry to the Champions League despite row escape from relegation. Valencia’s free-scoring form of late has been is a lot. We know we have the opportunity to finishing fourth when Chelsea claimed the final The Wearside club were only guaranteed an propelled by Soldado as the Spanish interna- get 100 and we will play the three games to win spot as holders of the trophy. eighth consecutive campaign in the top flight by tional had scored seven times in his previous them,” he told a press conference yesterday. To add to their frustration, a win against Wigan’s midweek defeat at Arsenal, which con- five outings, but he missed a great opportunity “We can’t just let it go, that is the only thing I Sunderland will mean they end the season with demned the Latics to the Championship. to get his side off to a flying start when he head- wouldn’t like. We owe it to the fans and we need 72 points, the club’s highest ever Premier League Sunderland have taken eight points in the six ed over from Andres Guardado’s pinpoint cross to finish the year well.” tally. games since Di Canio took charge at the end of after just 10 minutes. Barca have endured an up and down season “In the past it would have been enough to March to help them keep out of the bottom three, The game then became a scrappy affair with with the joy of the title tempered by their make it,” said Villas-Boas. “It would have been and the former West Ham forward said: “We’re the best chances coming via set-pieces for the humiliation to Bayern Munich in the semi-finals enough apart from the 2007/08 season when the safe, but there are no celebrations. The hard work majority of the first-half as Federico Fernandez of the Champions League, but Vilanova once headed over for Getafe and Pedro Leon also again stressed that he believes his first season in fourth-placed team (Liverpool) finished with 76 starts now. fired over with a decent opening inside the area charge has been an overall success. “The fans points. “I think what it represents, if we don’t “We have a chance to build something for the for the hosts. are happy with the league. We have led from achieve it, is one more sign that you have to push future with the players we’ve got, and others that However, Valencia did manage to take the the first game to the last. up to get closer to that group. will join in the summer, but it won’t be easy. Andre Villas-Boas lead a minute before half-time as a cleverly “It was important to recapture the league. “Whenever that group is competing for titles, It’s a new start. We’ll have the players back in years at White Hart Lane, are without suspended worked free-kick saw Ever Banega feed Mathieu The cycle which they said was ending, in the the reference of points will be higher and you for a couple of days next week before their holi- duo Stephane Sessegnon and Craig Gardner. on the edge of the area and he curled home his end has ended with a league, so for Barca I want have to improve and you have to get more points days, then we start looking towards pre-season. Skipper Lee Cattermole and defenders Wes Brown first goal of the season. Soldado then spurned to say that is has been a good season.” the next time. “That first month together as a squad before and Titus Bramble are all sidelined through injury. another great opportunity three minutes into Victor Valdes has been passed fit to return “Our step at the moment is to be into the the season starts is crucial. You’re with each other Di Canio, who has threatened to cut his players’ the second period as Miguel Angel Moya stood against Valladolid in what could be his penulti- Champions League, probably not title contenders morning, afternoon, morning, afternoon and you summer holidays short if they fail to perform in up well to block the striker’s effort. mate game as a Barca player at the Camp Nou but we hope to be competitive next season if we really get to know each other. their final match of the season, is unlikely to It mattered little, though, as Getafe posed with speculation linking the Spanish interna- manage to do things properly in the summer. “It’s a crucial time for a manager when shaping blood any of the young Sunderland players he barely any real threat in front of goal in the sec- tional with a move away at the end of the sea- “You have to strengthen for next season to get the squad.” Sunderland, who have won once in 29 has named on the bench in recent weeks. —AFP ond period as Valencia held out to register a son after he said he wouldn’t be renewing his third consecutive clean sheet. contract which ends in 2014. — AFP SMEs Fund capital must serve national economy Page 22

Europe banks hesitate to join rush for share capital Business Page 23 SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 Singapore cost S & P warns India could face junk status of living sees pawnshops thrive Page 25 Page 25

NEW YORK: Andrea DeWerd attends the NYC Uncubed tech recruiting event on Friday in New York City. 1,100 people were expected to attend the unconventional employment event featuring 50 New York City based startups offering skills class- es and ping pong. — AFP Oil price probe widens US senator wants Justice Dept help

LONDON/WASHINGTON: A European probe into possible oil because of the interrelationships among world oil markets the world’s oil prices, but this week’s investigation is the first (MOC) system - a daily half-hour “window” of trading during price manipulation expanded with the investigation of a small and hedging practices,” Senator Ron Wyden, the chairman of indication that EU authorities are taking a harder look at the which the agency determines prices through a series of bids, niche trading house in the Netherlands, while a key US sena- the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, wrote in system. The source said that inspectors were still on the prem- offers and trades. tor called for the Justice Department to join the investigation. a letter to Attorney General Eric Holder. ises of Argos Energies on Friday and that it was also the last European oil major Total, which last year wrote to regula- Dutch trading house Argos Energies, a mid-sized trading The US Commodity Futures Trading Commission and day of the inspection at the company. Argos Energies declined tors to question the way oil prices were determined, said it company that deals in physical oil products and owns storage Federal Trade Commission have both declined to comment on to comment. was not involved with the current investigation and has not facilities, was visited by inspectors from the European any role or coordination with EU authorities in the probe. US Platts said trading in the oil market has not been signifi- been visited. “No, we haven’t sent any letter,” Chief Executive Commission on Tuesday, a source familiar with the investiga- politicians including Wyden often call for enquiries into issues cantly affected by the investigation. “Market participation and Christophe de Margerie told reporters on the sidelines of the tion said late Friday. that affect gasoline prices, although regulators are not obli- liquidity are unchanged,” Platts editorial director Dan Tanz group’s annual meeting, when asked whether it had com- The visit occurred on the same day that authorities raided gated to take action. said. Meanwhile Neste Oil, a Finnish refinery, said it had plained to the EU. “I’ve learnt about this through the press and the London bureau of pricing agency Platts, and the offices of A spokesman for the Justice Department would not com- received a request from the European Commission to provide news agencies. I’d be very surprised if some of the cited com- Statoil, Royal Dutch Shell and BP in the biggest cross-border ment on whether the agency would undertake a probe, but information, although it said it was not under inspection. “We panies were involved in price manipulation.” action since the probe into rigging of Libor benchmark inter- said it was reviewing Wyden’s letter. Authorities have sharp- will naturally cooperate with this request and provide the The investigation is focused on whether there was collu- est rates. In Washington, the chairman of the Senate’s energy ened scrutiny of financial benchmarks around the world since information requested to assist the European Commission in sion to distort prices of crude, refined oil products and committee asked the Justice Department to investigate slapping large fines on some of the world’s biggest banks for its investigation,” Matti Lehmus, executive vice president, Oil ethanol traded during the MOC window. whether alleged price manipulation has boosted fuel prices rigging interest rate benchmarks. Products and Renewables said in a statement. Platts, a unit of McGraw-Hill, provides clients with price for US consumers. Over the past year many observers have noted the resem- Hungary’s Pannonia Ethanol, a recent entrant to Europe’s benchmarks set by reporters for opaque energy markets. Its “Efforts to manipulate the European oil indices, if proven, blance between the Libor self-reported benchmark and the market, was the first company to identify itself as having com- assessments are used to close physical and derivative deals may have already impacted US consumers and businesses, journalist assessment-based methodology used to set most of plained to Brussels over access to the Platts market-on-close worth billions in a $2.5 trillion market. — Reuters Falling US deficit renews austerity

WASHINGTON: Austerity or growth? Europe’s measures over the medium and long-term,” sis-the US property market-has picked up struggling economies have faced the ques- Lew told Bloomberg Television. pace again, with the number of building per- tion without fully answering it in recent years, US tax revenues were boosted by a hike in mits for new homes surging in April to more but the United States is on track to do both. personal tax rates in January, while public than 35 percent more than 12 months ago. Projections unveiled this week by the spending has been kept in check largely According to Joel Naroff, president at Congressional Budget Office indicate the US because of the automatic cuts that started in Naroff Economic Advisors, falling deficits are deficit will shrink more than 40 percent dur- March, much to the chagrin of the Obama good news for the US economy, especially ing fiscal 2013, returning to its lowest level in administration. given the perennial row between Republicans five years. The government received a further boost and Democrats on whether to cut or increase The figures would likely be viewed with in early May with the real estate lender Fannie taxes. envy in European capitals as they reflect an Mae, saved from bankruptcy by a bailout in “It will ease the pressure on budget cuts” outlook based on a US economy that contin- 2008, would pay back close to $60 billion to which could have harmed economic recovery, ues to grow-in stark contrast to a eurozone public coffers. Naroff said. “A lower deficit will remove the that has been in recession for six consecutive Barry Bosworth, a former presidential advi- argument that we need to cut spending fur- quarters. sor and now expert on fiscal and monetary ther,” he added. Despite the recent good The cocktail of US growth and a recovery in policy at the Brookings think tank in news, the US economy is not immune to its accounts is, paradoxically, the result of Washington, said the United States finds itself catching a cold; unemployment is still high at endless political wrangling over the federal in a much better place than envisaged. 7.5 percent in April-many Americans have budget, though the improvement in the “The tax increases and the sequestration, completely given up their search for work. nation’s prospects may also be ephemeral. that was a lot to absorb and there were wor- The International Monetary Fund and the US Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew, alluding ries that it could push the economy back Federal Reserve have also cited concern at the to the deep, automatic sequester cuts that down,” he said, remarking that an improving sequester, with estimates that it could shave began in March despite White House opposi- private sector “will be enough to offset the fis- up to 0.5 percent off US gross domestic prod- tion, conceded Friday that “bad policy is driv- cal restraints”. uct this year. ing down the deficit more quickly than any- But doubling down on cuts would backfire, “It doesn’t mean that all of a sudden things one intended.” according to Bosworth. “It would a big mis- are great and that the economy is doing well,” The “harsh consequences,” stemming from take to go further, the economy was more said Gregory Daco, of IHS Global Insight. “The those reductions are “something we should resilient but it doesn’t mean you can do that revision is mostly due to one time events,” he SHANGHAI: Greece’s Prime Minister Antonis Samaras delivers his speech at a Greece-China replace with balanced spending and revenue again,” he said. The epicenter of the 2008 cri- added. — AFP Business gala dinner in Shanghai, China yesterday. Samaras is in China seeking investment and trade deals to help revive his country’s recession-battered economy. — AP SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 BUSINESS SMEs Fund capital must serve national economy Projects are tools for creating job opportunities KUWAIT: The National Small and Medium-sized The activities and projects to be funded must Industrial Bank of Kuwait as well as others that Enterprises (SMEs) Fund’s capital of KD 2 billion be studied first in terms of being sufficient and were tasked to support such projects by Kuwait remains an important part of public funds that sustainable, the participants added, calling on the Investment Authority (KIA). must be used in feasible economic activities with Fund management to avoid financing refined The participants called on governmental bod- the capacity to repay public funding, said partici- projects in the national economy. ies concerned such as the Municipality, Public pants at a seminar on SMEs Fund yesterday. The participants also pointed out the impor- Authority for Industry (PAI), the Public Authority Participants at the (SMEs, Development tance of the completion of the executive regula- for Agriculture and the general authority for Cornerstone), organized by the Arab Planning tion list of the SMEs Fund, issued at the beginning restructuring labor market to coordinate with the Institute (API) and Kuwait Forum for Small and of this year, as it facilitates the process of applying Fund to ensure facilitating and simplifying feasi- Medium Enterprises, stressed the need to hire any financing mechanisms as fast as possible. ble project. funding form of projects that would add value to The Fund’s Board of Directors and the Small and Medium Enterprises are to include the national economy. International Committee of Advisors must be industrial, business, farming, handicraft, service, The participants also called on strengthening composed of specialized national competencies intellectual activities or any economic project the possibilities of diversifying the economic base away from quotas and political loyalties, as these which directly contributes to developing and in Kuwait, emphasizing that the projects are tools members’ interests must be aligned with all the diversifying the national income sources and MANILA: Jacinto Ng Sr., left, chair of Asia United Bank, rings the bell during for creating job opportunities for the expected projects intended to be financed, they noted. meets the needs of local or foreign market as a ceremony for the bank’s IPO (Initial Public Offering) listing in the flooding of citizens to the labor market in the They stressed the significance of clarifying the well as providing job opportunities to citizens Philippine Stocks Exchange at the financial district of Makati city, east of coming years, which will lessen the need to bring bond between the Fund and the bodies that have and developing value of free work in them and Manila, Philippines Friday, May 17, 2013. It was the third IPO listing this year in foreign labor and strengthen the role of nation- supported and financed small projects during the the self-ability in any of the fields mentioned for the PSE which reached a record high 7,000 level two days ago. At right is al employment. past years such as Kuwait Small Projects, above. —KUNA PSE Chair Jose Pardo. In the center is Anita Ng. —AP India Walmart lobby Buybacks are a big factor case ‘closed’: Report behind stock market boom NEW DELHI: India’s investigation into its lobbying. whether Walmart may have bribed Indian offi- Mudgal was named by the New Delhi gov- cials to gain wider access to the country’s vast ernment in January to investigate if the chain NEW YORK: It’s the narcissist rally. Sure, there total, US companies, not counting banks and Birinyi. market has been “closed” due to lack of evi- broke any Indian laws, and he questioned top are plenty of forces pushing stocks higher - other financial firms, have bought more than Funds riding the Narcissus trade suggest dence, a report said yesterday. store executives including its Asia chief execu- record corporate earnings, small investors $1 trillion of stock in the five years through the lift in prices can last for months, too. The The one-man committee of retired justice tive Scott Price as part of his inquiry. finally buying again, signs the US economy 2012, net of stocks they’ve issued. PowerShares Buyback Achievers and the Mukul Mudgal probing the matter is likely to Walmart announced in March it expected may be strengthening, central banks flooding Buybacks also appear to be moving some TrimTabs Float Shrink funds, two exchange- submit a report to the government next week to suffer financial losses amid its own internal the financial system with money. stocks more than they did a few years ago. traded funds, are both up 23 percent so far saying there was no “adequate” evidence to probe into corruption scandals involving for- But you may want to spare a thought, and a That’s because stocks are trading less fre- this year. By contrast, the S&P 500 is up 17 suggest Walmart was involved in any unlawful eign subsidiaries from Mexico, India, Brazil to healthy dose of worry, for what is one of the quently now. On Wall Street, it’s referred to a percent. activity in India, the Business Standard report- China. biggest, and least appreciated, reasons for the “drying up” of liquidity. And like in any market, Instead of getting excited, though, some ed, quoting unnamed sources. Last year, the Indian government allowed rally: buybacks. Flush with cash and a world of a purchase or sale when fewer people are trad- on Wall Street are worried. Gregory Milano, There was no immediate comment avail- foreign supermarkets to establish 51-percent opportunity at their doorstep, companies have ing can push prices up and down much more. CEO of consultancy Fortuna Advisors, has run able from Walmart or the Indian government. joint ventures in the country as part of Prime decided there’s nothing more attractive than DirecTV bought $1.4 billion of its stock in Walmart said in a routine disclosure report to Minister Manmohan Singh’s drive to seek out- studies showing that companies buying back the US Senate last year that it spent $25 mil- side investment to perk up a sharply slowing themselves. So, they’re offering big money to the first quarter, or 7.8 percent of all trades, their own stock the most tend not to spend lion over four years on issues related to economy. buy back their own stock. This year, big U.S. according to data from Birinyi Associates. It enough opening new factories or investing in “enhanced market access for investment in While Walmart had said in 2012 it wants to companies have given the go-ahead for $286 rose 12.8 percent in the same period, two R&D or building their business for the long India”. launch its first store in India within two years, it billion of buybacks, up 88 percent from the points more than the Standard and Poor’s 500. term, ultimately hurting their investors. The report stirred a ruckus in India with is yet to make a proposal to the government same period last year, according to Birinyi IBM bought $2.6 billion of its shares in the first Andrew Smithers, who runs a London-based opposition lawmakers who oppose the chain’s for opening retail stores. Until the law was Associates, a market research firm. If the pace quarter, or 5.6 percent of what was traded. It investment consultancy, thinks buybacks entry, saying it will hurt local “mom and pop” changed, the $447-billion retail chain, the continues for the rest of the year, the tally will rose 11.8 percent. have pushed stocks more than 40 percent stores, demanding an inquiry into whether largest in the world, could only set up cash- exceed the record set in 2007. Stocks move up for all sorts of reasons, so higher than they’re worth. In his book “The Walmart made any illegal payments as part of and-carry outlets. —AFP Every manner of company is caught up in the exact impact of buybacks on prices of indi- Great Deformation,” former US budget direc- the buying binge, including home-improve- vidual stocks is unclear. In any event, the total tor David Stockman says Corporate America is ment chains, makers of farm equipment and amount of buybacks doesn’t appear to be drunk on buybacks and that they’ve helped Gulf Bank announces winners jet engines, airlines, sellers of soft drinks and of enough to have a big effect on the whole mar- push stocks up too far, too. hard liquor alike. Not one to miss a hot trend, ket. If companies in the S&P 500 follow Another problem is that buybacks can give of Al Danah daily draws Apple recently authorized as much as $50 bil- through on their plans this year, the buybacks investors a false sense of strength of the true lion of buybacks. will amount to just 1 percent of total trading, earnings power of a company. Forty percent KUWAIT: Gulf Bank held its Al Danah daily Quarterly draw will be held on 27 June Investors like buybacks because they sug- estimates Robert Leiphart, an analyst at Birinyi. of the increase in the earnings per share of draws on May 12th 2013, announcing the (KD250,000, KD125,000, and KD25,000), 3rd gest companies think their stock is cheap. Still, companies that do buy back their own S&P 500 companies in the past 12 months names of its winners for the week of May Quarter - 26 September (KD500,000, They also help reduce the number of shares stock are seeing prices soar, and almost came from reducing the number of shares 12th to May 16th. The Al Danah daily draws KD125,000, and KD25,000) and the final outstanding, which automatically increases immediately. On Friday, Northrup Grumman through buybacks, estimates Barry Knapp, include draws each working day for two draw held on 9 January, 2014 announcing earnings per share. And higher earnings per jumped 4 percent after announcing it had chief US stock strategist at Barclays Capital. prizes of KD 1000 per winner. winners of KD50,000, KD250,000 and the Al share often, though not always, lead to rising authorized $4 billion of buybacks. The military Even if you’re worried, it’s not clear what Danah Millionaire. stock prices. contractor said it expects buybacks will cut its you should do in the face of this massive cor- The winners were: Gulf Bank’s Al Danah allows customers to But buybacks are also crucial to the rally for shares outstanding by a quarter by the end of porate buying, which shows no signs of eas- (Sunday 12/5): Ibrahim Mohammad win cash prizes and simultaneously encour- a reason that’s not widely known. Companies 2015. ing. Howard Silverblatt, senior index analyst at Ahmad Al-Awadi, Hamza Abbas Fahad Taqi ages them to save money. Chances increase are one of the few big stock purchasers nowa- Another big share buyer, Home Depot, rose S&P Dow Jones Indices, notes that S&P 500 (Monday 13/5): Mohammed Saoud the more money is deposited and the days. Nearly every other big player in the stock 5.7 percent on Feb. 26 after it announced a companies have plenty of cash to keep buy- Abdulaziz Al-Hasan, Abdullah Mefleh Al- longer it is kept in the account. market has been selling more than they’ve $17 billion buyback program. The S&P 500 ing - a record $1 trillion, not counting money Azmi (Tuesday 14/5): Baha’a Tawfeeq Qasem Al Danah also offers a number of unique Al-Qasem, Maryam Fadhel Ali Al- Bloushi. services including the Al Danah Deposit been buying. rose 0.6 percent that day. If the retailer spends set aside in reserves as required by regulators. (Wednesday 15/5): Khaznah Naser Only ATM card which helps account holders Pension funds have been selling. Local and all the authorized in its plan, it will remove 18 The dilemma facing buyback skeptics who Murshed Melfi, Faisal Awad Ali Lafi (Thursday deposit their money at their convenience; as state governments have been selling. percent of the shares outstanding at current are thinking of selling is the same one facing 16/5): Esaa Esmaeel Moktar Abdullah, well as the Al Danah calculator to help cus- Investment brokerages have been selling. And, prices, which will make the impact of a next those worried the rise in the market has Badriya Marzouk Dawoud Al-Bader. tomers calculate their chances of becoming yes, until recently, even Main Street investors. round of purchases even more powerful. come mostly from the Federal Reserve efforts Gulf Bank’s Al Danah 2013 draw lineup an Al Danah winner. You can see this in the data released by the Stocks of companies that have authorized to stimulate the economy. “Don’t fight the includes daily draws (2 winners per working To be part of the Al Danah draws, cus- Federal Reserve each quarter, and it’s a sea of the 10 biggest buybacks so far this year have Fed,” the old Wall Street saw goes. To which day each receive KD 1000), as well as three tomers can visit one of Gulf Bank’s 56 red - save for corporate buying, that is, buy- risen 2.2 points more than the S&P 500 in the should perhaps be added, “Don’t buck the draw prizes per quarter. Al Danah’s 2nd branches. backs plus purchases of other companies. In week after their announcements, according to buybacks.” —AP

EXCHANGE RATES

Commercial Bank of Kuwait Thai Baht 9.643 Omani Riyal 740.69 743.000 Guinea Franc 0.0000444 0.0000504 Malaysian ringgit 94.221 Qatari Riyal 78.59 78.500 Hg Kong Dollar 0.0343160 0.0374160 Irani Riyal 0.271 Saudi Riyal 76.02 76.400 Indian Rupee 0.0051727 0.0052367 US Dollar/KD .2770000 .2880000 Irani Riyal 0.273 Indonesian Rupiah 0.0000244 0.0000295 GB Pound/KD .4310000 .4470000 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd Jamaican Dollars 0.0028600 0.0038600 Euro .3680000 .3760000 GCC COUNTRIES Japanese Yen 0.0027338 0.0029138 Swiss francs .3020000 .3170000 Saudi Riyal 76.577 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate Kenyan Shilling 0.0033582 0.0035882 Canadian Dollar .2780000 .2920000 Qatari Riyal 78.903 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate Malaysian Ringgit 0.0908389 0.0978389 Australian DLR .2940000 .3020000 Omani Riyal 745.880 US Dollar 286.550 Nepalese Rupee 0.0031166 0.0033166 Indian rupees .0040000 .0069000 Bahraini Dinar 762.720 Canadian Dollar 284.780 Pakistan Rupee 0.0028798 0.0029198 Sri Lanka Rupee .0020000 .0035000 UAE Dirham 78.194 Sterling Pound 447.730 Philippine Peso 0.0064905 0.0069605 UAE dirhams .0771240 .0778990 Euro 371.435 Sierra Leone 0.0000731 0.0000761 Bahraini dinars .7513970 .7589480 ARAB COUNTRIES Swiss Frank 297.210 Singapore Dollar 0.2267879 0.2327879 Jordanian dinar .3930000 .4110000 Egyptian Pound - Cash 40.700 Bahrain Dinar 758.655 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.0022204 0.0022624 Saudi riyals .0720000 .0770000 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 40.455 UAE Dirhams 77.995 Thai Baht 0.0092650 0.0098650 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.340 Arab Omani riyals .7366120 .7440150 Qatari Riyals 78.655 Tunisian Dinar 174.180 Bahraini Dinar 0.7524592 0.7609592 Egyptian pounds .0370000 .0440000 Saudi Riyals 76.375 Jordanian Dinar 405.520 Jordanian Dinar 403.940 Egyptian Pound 0.0390086 0.0410386 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 1.927 Ethiopeanbirr 0.0129242 0.0194242 CUSTOMER TRANSFER RATES Egyptian Pound 40.620 Syrian Lier 3.120 Sri Lankan Rupees 2.265 Ghanaian Cedi 0.1454715 0.1472615 US Dollar/KD .2841000 .2862000 Morocco Dirham 33.771 Iranian Riyal 0.0000796 0.0000801 GB Pound/KD .4338920 .4370990 Indian Rupees 5.235 Pakistani Rupees 2.904 Iraqi Dinar 0.0001728 0.0002328 Euro .3707360 .3734770 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Jordanian Dinar 0.3979604 0.4054604 Swiss francs .3043390 .3065880 Bangladesh Taka 3.675 US Dollar Transfer 287.050 Philippines Pesso 6.969 Kuwaiti Dinar 1.0000000 1.0000000 Canadian dollars .2795430 .2816100 Euro 372.300 Cyprus pound 702.930 Lebanese Pound 0.0001756 0.0001956 Danish Kroner .0497330 .0501010 Sterling Pound 439.470 Japanese Yen 3.800 Moroccan Dirhams 0.0219005 0.0450052 Swedish Kroner .0443660 .0446940 Canadian dollar 281.970 Thai Bhat 9.730 Nigerian Naira 0.0012190 0.0018540 Australian dlr .2963730 .2985640 Turkish lira 158.720 Syrian Pound 4.095 Omani Riyal 0.7324971 0.7434971 Hong Kong dlr .0365940 .0368650 Swiss Franc 297.920 Nepalese Rupees 3.365 Qatar Riyal 0.0779704 0.0787534 Singapore dlr .2291130 .2308060 US Dollar Buying 285.850 Malaysian Ringgit 95.500 Saudi Riyal 0.0758000 0.0764400 Japanese yen .0029600 .0028810 Sudanese Pounds 0.0465443 0.0470943 Syrian Pound 0.0031207 0.0033407 Indian Rs/KD .0000000 .0052870 GOLD Bahrain Exchange Company Sri Lanka rupee .0000000 .0022880 20 Gram 298.000 Tunisian Dinar 0.1728462 0.1788462 Pakistan rupee .0000000 .0029190 10 Gram 150.000 UAE Dirhams 0.0765080 0.0779580 5 Gram 77.500 COUNTRY SELL CASH SELLDRAFT Yemeni Riyal 0.0012916 0.0013918 Bangladesh taka .0000000 .0036810 Europe UAE dirhams .0773800 .0779520 British Pound 0.4311675 0.4401675 Bahraini dinars .7538810 .7594530 UAE Exchange Centre WLL Czech Korune 0.0062090 0.0182090 Al Mulla Exchange Jordanian dinar .0000000 .4048090 Danish Krone 0.0459301 0.0509301 Saudi Riyal/KD .0757800 .0763400 COUNTRY SELL DRAFT SELL CASH Euro 0.3672796 0.3747796 Currency Transfer Rate (Per 1000) Omani riyals .7382100 .7436660 Australian Dollar 299.45 298.000 Norwegian Krone 0.0454118 0.0506118 Scottish Pound 0.4291120 0.4366120 US Dollar 285.700 Philippine Peso .0000000 .0069870 Canadian Dollar 285.97 285.000 Swedish Krona 0.0394043 0.0444043 Euro 374.550 Swiss Franc 306.21 307.000 Swiss Franc 0.2953155 0.3023155 Pound Sterling 440.000 Euro 376.06 374.500 Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. Australasia Canadian Dollar 285.150 US Dollar 284.60 285.500 Australian Dollar 0.2754572 0.2874572 Japanese Yen 2.855 Sterling Pound 444.81 449.000 New Zealand Dollar 0.2290480 0.2390480 Indian Rupee 5.228 ASIAN COUNTRIES Japanese Yen 2.98 3.300 Uganda Shilling 0.0001142 0.0001142 Egyptian Pound 40.550 Japanese Yen 2.781 Bangladesh Taka 3.675 3.720 America Sri Lankan Rupee 2.257 Indian Rupees 5.233 Indian Rupee 5.263 5.450 Canadian Dollar 0.2763333 0.2853333 Bangladesh Taka 3.668 Pakistani Rupees 2.912 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.245 2.430 Colombian Peso 0.0001456 0.0001636 Philippines Peso 6.933 Srilankan Rupees 2.270 Nepali Rupee 3.313 3.400 US Dollars 0.2839500 0.2861000 Pakistan Rupee 2.905 Nepali Rupees 3.271 Pakistani Rupee 2.896 2.953 Asia Bahraini Dinar 760.850 Singapore Dollar 229.640 UAE Dirhams 77.55 78.000 Bangladesh Taka 0.0036286 0.0036836 UAE Dirham 77.850 Hongkong Dollar 36.980 Bahraini Dinar 757.78 756.800 Cape Vrde Escudo 0.0031744 0.0034044 Saudi Riyal 76.300 Bangladesh Taka 3.676 Egyptian Pound 40.62 40.500 Chinese Yuan 0.0455905 0.0505905 *Rates are subject to change Philippine Peso 6.970 Jordanian Dinar 405.45 410.000 Eritrea-Nakfa 0.0165400 0.0196400 SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 BUSINESS London firm launches Islamic insurance platform

SYDNEY: London-based firm Cobalt has sees a segregated pool of funds con- priced by a lead insurer and other firms to expand capacity into the construc- cept of darura, or extreme necessity. developed a sharia-compliant insurance tributed by all policy holders. In their must then subscribe under similar tion sector, Bishop said. Industry scholars, however, are platform that uses a syndication model investments, takaful firms must follow terms, a similar approach to the sub- In the long term, further capacity increasingly challenging whether the to help spread risk across a panel of religious guidelines such as a ban on scription model used in London’s insur- could be added for other risks including darura concept is still applicable in today’s underwriters, a novel format that could interest and pure speculation. Global ance market. trade finance, Islamic finance institu- market and are encouraging alternatives. boost capacity in the sector. Under the takaful contributions were expected to tions, energy and aviation, he added. Several pricing models can be used under platform, Cobalt allows multiple insur- reach $12.4 billion in 2012, according to CAPACITY Operators in the takaful sector, which the platform such as mudaraba and ers to pool their capacity and each can a report by consultants Ernst & Young Cobalt, formed in 2012 with capital has its core markets in the Gulf and wakala, the latter can incorporate an subscribe to the desired level of risk last April. from Capita insurance services and the southeast Asia, have been limited in incentive fee which is the preferred for- though individual Islamic windows, said The platform allows each insurer to Bank of London and The Middle East, their ability to take on large commercial mat, Bishop said. Under the mudaraba chief executive Richard Bishop. “We are have a takaful window, where policy- hopes its platform can address gaps in risks partly due to a lack of scale. “Once model, a firm acts as a managing partner syndicating the risk across a panel of holder funds are segregated from con- both the Islamic insurance and reinsur- you get beyond small commercial risk, for a policyholder’s money, working insurers. What we are about is develop- ventional funds, without affecting their ance sectors. The firm has secured takaful doesn’t work. We have created a under a profit-sharing contract with any ing an Islamic alternative in London for rating levels and helping price the risk underwriting capacity from XL Group to multiple-insurer platform to provide the losses borne by participants. In wakala, Islamic insurance,” Bishop said. competitively, said Bishop. “It is essen- insure property risks with capacity of up sort of capacity the industry needs,” the firm operates under an agency agree- Cobalt aims to address capacity con- tial to our offering that all security is of to $300 million. Bishop said. Reinsurance options are ment, managing funds on behalf of poli- straints in the takaful (Islamic insurance) at least an A rating in order to satisfy Cobalt would seek to underwrite also scarce, with some takaful firms cyholders in exchange for a management industry, which is based on the concept the requirements of both buyers and large transactions of no less than $30 forced to reinsure through conventional fee, which can also include a performance of mutuality; where a company over- their financiers,” he said. The risk is million in value while it is also seeking lines, a practice allowed under the con- fee. —Reuters Europe banks hesitate to join rush for share capital Bankers often see issues as sign of failure LONDON: A wave of investor demand that has the EuroStoxx 600 banks index up 23 percent in 2012 Greece’s depression and last year’s radical write- allowed Deutsche Bank and two other lenders to raise and a further 8 percent so far this year. Despite this, down in the value of their holdings of Greek gov- six billion euros ($7.7 billion) in new share capital in most large share issues have been made at a discount ernment bonds. This has left the top four lenders the past month is unlikely to prompt other European to the market price. Deutsche Bank was an exception. with a 27.5 billion euro capital shortfall. Under a res- banks to go to their shareholders for more cash. More It priced its 3 billion euro placement at the previous cue funded by Greece’s EU/IMF bailout, the four will than four years after the financial crisis began, many day’s closing price of 32.90 euros and made the whole fall under state control unless they can raise at least are hesitating to take the plunge with further equity issue in less than 24 hours. The bank’s shares rose 6 10 percent of their capital needs privately. Alpha issues that are often unpopular with existing share- percent on the day the order book was filled. announced on May 1 it had raised 457 million euros, holders, while in Britain high politics have thrown up “The Deutsche Bank share price reaction should meeting the 10 percent target. additional complications. make people feel less scared about whether more Piraeus had already ensured it could keep Many banks across the continent must still raise capital raisings come along, because demand looks management control when France’s Societe funds to get into shape for Basel III capital require- strong relative to supply at the moment, said,” Paras Generale and Millennium BCP of Portugal effec- ments that come into force in 2019, aiming to prevent Anand, head of European equities at Fidelity tively paid it to take over their Greek operations. a repeat of the 2008-09 disaster when taxpayers had Worldwide Investment. Before the Deutsche issue, However, Piraeus is continuing to canvas ROME: Demonstrators hold banners and flags during the left-wing Italian to bail out a string of lenders. With global stock mar- investors had been questioning the bank’s capital ade- investors for new equity. In Italy, a number of metalworkers’ union FIOM rally in downtown Rome yesterday. —AFP kets hitting record highs, powered by huge injections quacy, something it was aware of, sources familiar small banks have capital holes that need filling of liquidity from central banks, now would seem a with the process said. The sales pitch was based on the before they come under European Central Bank good time to do this by selling new shares. Deutsche, idea that Deutsche would “re-rate” after its perceived supervision next year, most notably Carige, which Alpha Bank of Greece and Russia’s VTB have raised the capital problems had been solved and the bank’s needs 800 million euros. But large Italian banks Bank documents combined six billion euros ($7.8 billion), while shares would higher. have raised more than 26 billion euros of new Commerzbank detailed terms on Tuesday for its 2.5 There are also commercial advantages for institu- equity since summer 2008 and show no signs of portray Cyprus as billion euro share offering. Greece’s Piraeus is also tions active in investment banking to have new capi- an imminent return to the equity markets. raising cash. tal, particularly one with a large US operation facing In Britain, the Bank of England has identified a Investment bankers have hailed the sales as a tes- demands for higher capital there. “There is clearly new 25 billion pound ($38 billion) capital hole across the Russia’s favorite haven tament to demand for bank stocks including even business to be gained from having this additional cap- country’s banks, but the problem here is as much higher risk investments such as Alpha, a bailed-out ital,” said Martin. “It means they can now take more risk political as financial. The two big banks most in NICOSIA: When the Cyprus bank run began acquired a stake in VKontakte, a fast-growing bank in a bailed-out country which is ranked as “junk” earlier this year, Russians set much of the social network known as the “Russian by the three biggest credit rating agencies. But the pace. Documents seen by Reuters show that Facebook”, told Reuters: “Our group has sever- banks are often less enthusiastic. “You raise capital as the Mediterranean island headed towards al dozen legal entities, and some of them have either because someone is forcing you to, or because financial meltdown in March, most notable accounts at Bank of Cyprus, but we don’t use it makes business sense,” said Jaime Ramos Martin, among companies transferring money from those as primary accounts. “Anybody serious European equities portfolio manager at Standard Life the country’s two main banks were Russians who works on financial markets wouldn’t Investments. and East Europeans. At least 3.6 billion euros have left any significant amounts in the Many banks see no business sense in issuing equi- ($4.67 billion) was removed in two weeks by Cyprus banks. Very simple reason: Look at the ty, believing regulators will give them time to build big depositors, according to the documents. share price chart of the Bank of Cyprus. It up capital gradually from their profits or by issuing Though many companies listed initially went to zero many months before the freeze “cocos”, bonds that are converted into shares if a appear obscure, a Reuters analysis shows a happened.” bank’s position worsens. Executives from a number of significant proportion are vehicles for foreign He could not confirm the transaction listed banks who spoke to Reuters on condition of investors more at home in Moscow or Kiev in the Cypriot documents and said his compa- anonymity said they did not plan or need to raise cap- than Nicosia. The lists give an insight into the nies did not keep big deposits in Cyprus. A ital. As one banker put it, the successful recent issues March crisis and how the tax haven, with a spokeswoman for UCP said the transaction means others “may consider, but most don’t necessar- population of just 1.1 million, had amassed “must be a mistake or incorrect information”. ily need to raise or don’t want to raise”. bank deposits that peaked at 72 billion euros - On March 16, the Cyprus government shut more than four times the island’s GDP. banks amid discussions over imposing losses CHEQUERED PAST Prepared in April by private sector lenders on depositors as the price for an international The financial crisis, which went global when Bank of Cyprus and Laiki Bank, and passed to rescue. On the day before, a company called Lehman Brothers investment bank collapsed in the lawmakers by the island’s central bank, the Trellas Enterprises moved 2 billion roubles autumn of 2008, wiped out the capital buffers of even documents list 5,323 transactions, most previ- ($63.85 million) out of Bank of Cyprus. the world’s strongest banks. Weaker banks had to turn ously undisclosed. They detail transfers of Trellas Enterprises is majority-owned by to their governments for tens of billions in bailout 100,000 euros or more from Bank of Cyprus Maxim Nogotkov, an entrepreneur who con- funding while stronger ones went to the markets. In and Laiki Bank in the two weeks before trols Svyaznoy, one of the biggest retailers of Europe, the 46 banks in the benchmark EuroStoxx Cyprus closed its banks on March 16 as it des- cell phones in Russia. Nogotkov, 36, is listed by 600 banks index tapped private investors for more WASHINGTON: In this April 23, 2010 file picture German Deputy Finance Minister Joerg perately negotiated an international rescue. Forbes as having a net worth of $1.3 billion. than 100 billion euros in ordinary equity since the Asmussen, right, and Axel Weber, then governor of the central bank of Germany, the Reuters analysed 129 companies that each Nogotkov confirmed that he controlled his autumn of 2008, according to figures compiled by Deutsche Bundesbank, brief reporters on their work at the IMF-World Bank meetings transferred 5 million euros or more over the mobile phone and banking interests in Russia Reuters. The outcome has been mixed, with massive in Washington. Engineering a financial bailout for Cyprus in March 2013 was such a two-week period, collectively accounting for through Trellas, but declined to comment on gains by some and heavy losses by others. chaotic process that top European officials say it is time to rethink how the region man- 1.9 billion euros. Of those companies, 95 the transfer recorded in the bank list. “We nev- Investors who put close to 1.5 billion euros into ages its crisis — and who should be involved. —AP could be traced. er comment on financial transfers or mergers Belgian bank KBC last year have done spectacularly Out of that group, 34 have links to Russia, and acquisitions activity,” Nogotkov said by well. Those who bought shares last October have and so on. There are more profits for the taking here.” need of capital, Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds, five have links to Ukraine and two to telephone. seen their investment rise 55 percent, based on the Investors anticipating the issue had already set were bailed out during the crisis at huge cost to the Kazakhstan. The remainder comprise compa- Asked whether he was considering May 13 closing price, while those who subscribed in aside money for Deutsche before it happened. British taxpayer. RBS Chief Executive Stephen Hester nies from Cyprus and other countries includ- restructuring his business interests in light of December are up 41 percent. Backers of Spanish bank “Deutsche Bank was seen as the right amount at the said on Tuesday it would take another 18 months to ing tax havens such as the Cayman Islands, Cyprus’ financial meltdown, Nogotkov said: Santander’s 7.2 billion euro capital increase in right time,” said one investment banker. “There are improve the bank’s capital position enough to keep the British Virgin Islands and the Dutch “Not actively. We don’t have any urgent deci- December 2008 are now up 19 percent. However, very few that would work as well as Deutsche Bank.” regulators happy. Antilles. By value, more than half the transac- sions to restructure (the business).” Another those who took part in National Bank of Greece’s 1.25 German rival Commerzbank announced on Tuesday But the two banks’ largest shareholder, the tions were made in dollars. “This list verifies as company illustrating the Russia connection is billion euro issue in July 2009 are nursing losses of 44 that it was pricing its issue at a discount of 55 percent government, wants to sell the stakes - not pump well-founded Cyprus’ reputation as an off- O1 Properties Limited, which moved 10.1 mil- percent, and investors who bought into a 499 million to Monday’s closing price. The offer, which runs until in yet more public cash in an exercise that would shore economy used as a conduit for people, lion euros out of Bank of Cyprus. The company euros placement by Bank of Ireland in June 2010 are May 28, is open to current shareholders who can buy be a political non-starter in the run up to parlia- particularly Russians, to hold large sums of is controlled by Boris Mints, a Russian politi- down 88 percent. 20 new shares for every 21 shares they hold now. mentary elections in 2015. One investment money, often to avoid paying tax and without cian turned businessman, and this year Investment bankers involved in the current wave banker said the appetite for bank equity didn’t too much scrutiny,” said Michael McIntyre, bought the White Square business centre in of equity issues say there is money to be made for NEXT WAVE mean a rush of activity would follow, as the mar- professor of law and a tax expert at Wayne Moscow for $1 billion. investors who are flush with cash and seeking yield. At the other end of the euro zone from Germany ket waits for the state to start selling its stakes. State University in the United States. In the 1990s Mints was a state official han- The stock of almost all European banks is still trading - geographically and economically - Greek banks “People are talking in the market a lot about the While the transfers appear mostly related dling issues relating to property and local well below book value - their net assets divided by have been canvassing private investors for fresh UK banks, there’s a lot of political dialogue ... the to moving money out of Cyprus, Reuters authorities. From 2004 until 2012 he was the number of shares. Many of the early capital funds as they try to avoid falling under state control. discount, the timing, the elections,” he said. “It’s a could not establish where the funds went. It is chairman of the board of Otkritie Financial increases were triggered by the demands of They have been hammered by loan losses during fascinating debate.” —Reuters possible some transfers were between banks Corporation, which describes itself as Russia’s European Union stress tests, where banks’ finances within Cyprus. Deposits that did flow out of largest independent financial group by assets. were subjected to crisis scenarios to see if they had the country had to be funded by emergency He is now president of the firm. Mints was not enough capital or needed to raise more. This has Mid-sized Italian banks face liquidity assistance from the European Central available for comment. A spokesman for O1 made many banks view raising equity as a last resort Bank, according to analysts. In effect, the ECB Properties said: “O1 Properties keeps an and a sign of defeat. big bang for want of bucks was paying for depositors, many of them account at the Bank of Cyprus to use it for reg- But forecasts from analysts at Deutsche Bank - one Russian, to remove money from Cyprus ular business activities. We didn’t know that of those lenders to have recently bitten the bullet - GENOA: A deepening recession and banking in an interview from his top floor office. “But before those depositors could be compelled Cyprus banks (would) shut. O1 Properties suf- appear to belie the assumption that taking on more stress tests could find Italy’s mid-sized lenders there was an acceleration in September with the to contribute to the international rescue of fered losses. We do not comment (on the) equity prevents banks from delivering a good return short of billions of euros, putting the state on drafting of the list of banks that would fall under the island. total loss.” to shareholders. “Markets don’t punish banks for rais- the hook for a new wave of cash calls and trig- EU banking supervision.” ing capital if they genuinely need it,” said Deutsche gering an overhaul of how they do business. “This problem is common to a number of BIGGEST TRANSFER EXPENSIVE WORDS analyst Matt Spick. “Rather, markets punish banks that Even ahead of the European stress tests, expect- other small banks. We had to speed up and try As debts threatened to overwhelm Cyprus The troika of the European Commission, consistently run with less capital than the market ed to take place when or shortly before the to do everything this year,” said La Monica. early this year, money began to flow out of the European Central Bank and the would like them to have, rightly or wrongly.” Under European Central Bank (ECB) takes over direct Disposals and other actions undertaken by the the country in fluctuating amounts. In International Monetary Fund insisted on the Basel III rules, banks will be judged on their com- supervision of euro zone banks next year, Italy’s bank should boost its core Tier 1 to 10 percent, January 1.7 billion euros left the island and a tough terms for providing billions to stop mon equity tier 1 capital ratios - a measure of high- smaller banks are under pressure to boost their he added. Italian banks’ efforts to shore up their further 900 million in February, according to Cyprus going bust. As talks progressed, specu- quality capital compared with risk-weighted assets. balance sheets after a Bank of Italy audit of capital base, especially among the 25 or so Central Bank of Cyprus figures. The run accel- lation began to spread that any package for Out of 41 European lenders, Deutsche analysts problematic loans and to meet stricter Basel 3 lenders expected to come under ECB supervi- erated in March as Cyprus found it had few Cyprus would include levying money from expect 14 to have capital ratios above 11 percent next capital rules. Bad loans in Italy have been climb- sion, is in turn deepening the country’s econom- friends among international institutions suf- bank depositors - an unprecedented move year and forecast their average return on total equity ing at an annual rate of 20 percent in recent ic recession, as they cut back on lending. fering bail-out fatigue. Many of the biggest that came to be known as a bail in, rather than will be 11.7 percent then. At the remaining 27 banks months. A harsher credit crunch could emerge if the transfers were by firms linked to Russia. One a bail out. which are expected to have ratios below 11 percent In the port city of Genoa, birthplace of mod- ECB stress tests expose more capital holes, of the largest was listed under the name of The impact of what politicians and officials next year, they predict return on total equity ern banking in the 15th century, regional mar- potentially prolonging Italy’s nearly two-year- UCP Industrial Holdings, which is recorded as said - and did not say - is reflected in the pat- will be only 8.1 percent. “There is no evidence that ket leader Carige is raising 800 million euros ($1 long recession and raising its debt burden, moving 80.2 million euros out of the Bank of tern of fund outflows. On March 4, depositors earning a decent return for shareholders is hampered billion), equivalent to two thirds of its market already at 2 trillion euros, the second-largest in Cyprus on March 7. withdrew 261 million euros from the two by having a strong capital base,” said Spick. The prob- value, by selling assets to boost its capital. With a the EU after Germany, which has a much bigger UCP Industrial Holdings is part of United banks, according to the transfer lists. Late that able reason was that banks already achieving high core tier one ratio of 6.7 percent, Carige’s ability economy and a much lower ratio of debt to GDP. Capital Partners, a $3.5 billion Russian invest- day, Jeroen Dijsselbloem, president of the profitability were able to build up a strong capital to absorb losses is among the weakest in Italy. With bad debts mounting, analysts expect the ment firm led by Ilya Sherbovich, a former Eurogroup of finance ministers in the euro base, he added. “Initially, we thought we would have more time Frankfurt-based central bank to take a harsh head of investment at Deutsche Bank Russia zone, was asked whether the rescue of Cyprus to come into line with the new Basel 3 rules,” look at the quality of banks’ loans, requiring and now a board director of the oil giant would affect bank depositors. He did not give THE 2013 SHOW said Ennio La Monica, the bank’s chief executive, them to set aside more capital. —Reuters Rosneft. Sherbovich, whose UCP fund recently a clear answer. —Reuters Banks came into 2013 riding a wave that pushed SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 BUSINESS

KSE ends last week in the green zone

BAYAN WEEKLY MARKET REPORT KUWAIT: Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) ended last week in the green zone. The price index ended last week with an increase amounted to 1.71%, and the weighted index advanced by 0.35% compared to the closings of the week before. In addi- tion KSX-15 index increased by 0.11%. Furthermore, last week’s aver- age daily turnover decreased by 21.53%, compared to the preceding week, reaching KD 86.97 million, whereas trading volume average was 1.13 billion shares, recording increase of 11.67%. The Price Index reached 8,000 point psychological level, among an unstable performance resulted from the different directions of traders. 2.83% increase. The Real Estate sector The market witnessed quick profit came in third as its index achieved collection operations, lightened its 2.79% growth, ending the week at gains at some point and dragged it 1,541.12 points. The Industrials sector to the red zone in one session at was the least growing as its index another point. However, the pur- closed at 1,143.86 points with a 0.28% chasing activity was present during increase. On the other hand, the most of the time, which enabled the Insurance sector was last week’s only three indices to realize gains by the loser as its index declined by 2.63% to end of the week. end the week’s activity at 1,115.95 In addition, the market witnessed points. last week random purchasing opera- tions on some leading stocks in Sectors’ Activity Banking sector, which had a positive The Real Estate sector dominated impact on the Weighted Index and total trade volume during last week KSX-15 Index, where both closed the with 2.11 billion shares changing week in the green zone. Moreover, hands, representing 37.31% of the total the market witnessed in one of its market trading volume. The Financial daily sessions, a strong correction Services sector was second in terms of action, caused the market to shed trading volume as the sector’s traded greatly, whereas the Price Index shares were 35.62% of last week’s total decreased by approximately 50 trading volume, with a total of 2.02 bil- point, due to selling operations exe- lion shares. cuted on many small-cap stocks, with On the other hand, the Real Estate concentration on stocks that record- sector’s stocks were the highest traded ed significant price increases lately. to compensate its previous session closing in 2012, while the weighted a 0.35% weekly gain after closing at in the green zone except for one sector. in terms of value; with a turnover of KD However, the market was able to loss, getting close to 8,000 point lev- index increased by 11.05%, and the 463.80 points. Moreover, the KSX-15 Last week’s highest gainer was the 158.67 million or 36.49% of last week’s realize gains in the last session of the el, which is expected to reach by the KSX-15 recorded 7.68% increase. index closed at 1,086.63 points, increas- Consumer Goods sector, achieving total market trading value. The Financial week, as a result to the return of the coming weeks. By the end of the week, the price ing with 0.11%. 4.74% growth rate as its index closed at Services sector took the second place as positive purchasing and speculative For the annual performance, the index closed at 7,902.18 points, up by 1,157.71 points. Whereas, in the second the sector’s last week turnover of KD operations that included many price index ended last week recording 1.71% from the week before closing, Sectors’ Indices place, the Technology sector’s index 147.67 million represented 33.96% of stocks, and enabled the Price Index 33.16% annual gain compared to its whereas the weighted index registered All of KSE’s sectors ended last week closed at 1,201.80 points recording the total market trading value.

Bill clears House for wider Workers on illegal strike at SEC economic analyses chrome mine in S Africa JOHANNESBURG: Operations at a More than 50 people were killed in chrome mine in South Africa owned by labour-related violence last year amid a WASHINGTON: Legislation cleared the House the Democrats charged. nomics,” said Rep. Jeb Hensarling, R-Texas, chemicals group LANXESS have been wave of wildcat strikes that hit produc- on Friday that would place stricter require- The legislation “is aimed squarely at under- chairman of the Financial Services suspended since Thursday after work- tion in the platinum and gold sectors, ments on the federal agency overseeing Wall mining Wall Street’s cop on the block,” Rep. Committee. ers started an illegal strike over bonus and there are concerns that there Street to assess the costs and benefits of its Maxine Waters of California, the senior The Republicans have long targeted the payments, the National Union of could be more unrest after Anglo regulations before they are issued. Democrat on the House Financial Services SEC by proposing legislation to weaken vari- Mineworkers (NUM) said on Saturday. American Platinum announced plans The bill passed on a 235-161 vote mostly Committee, said on the House floor before ous provisions of the financial overhaul law. The dispute at the mine in Rustenburg, to cut 6,000 mining jobs around on party lines. It was the latest salvo against the vote. “This is dangerous; it is irresponsible. Their opposition has been galvanized in 120 km (70 miles) northwest of Rustenburg. the Securities and Exchange Commission by This is about protecting Wall Street.” recent days with the revelations that the Johannesburg, adds to growing labour That is less than half the 14,000 ini- House Republicans, who opposed the 2010 In addition to tying up SEC staff resources, Internal Revenue Service gave tougher treat- tensions around South Africa’s platinum tially targeted by the world’s top pro- financial overhaul legislation expanding the the requirement for more extensive and ment to tea party and other conservative belt, which are set to intensify over loom- ducer of the precious metal as it seeks SEC’s powers and have resisted increasing its detailed cost-benefit analyses would put the groups seeking tax-exempt status. ing job cuts and wage talks in the sector. to restore profits, but unions have still budget. Congress enacted the regulatory agency at greater risk of being sued over each At Thursday’s hearing, committee “The strike is still ongoing, although vowed to fight the lay-offs. However, a we are trying to persuade workers to protest strike called for Friday by at overhaul in response to the 2008 financial cri- rule it adopts, the Democrats said. They said Republicans seized on the episode to tell go back,” said Mxhasi Sithethi, the least two AMCU officials failed to mate- sis with an eye to preventing another melt- that while they support cost-benefit analyses White that if the SEC adopted a rule requiring union’s regional co-ordinator for rialise. down. by federal agencies, they object to imposing public companies to disclose political dona- Rustenburg. Upcoming wage talks in South Friday’s bill isn’t expected to get a vote in excessive requirements on the SEC. tions, as consumer and liberal groups have “The company issued a court Africa’s mining sector are also expect- the Senate. It would require the SEC to refrain The White House registered its opposition urged, it would be engaging in a similar injunction yesterday calling the work- ed to be difficult given inflation, rising from adopting rules unless it determines that to the bill on Wednesday, saying it would add abuse of power as the IRS. ers to go back to work, but the worker militancy, shrinking company the benefits of the rules outweigh the costs. “burdensome and disruptive new procedures The SEC is an independent regulatory employees reacted angrily.” Sithethi margins and sharply falling commodity The agency currently conducts cost-benefit (that) would impede the ability of the SEC to agency. The IRS is a division of the Treasury said the situation around the mine had prices. The platinum price lost nearly analyses of regulations prior to issuing them. protect investors, maintain orderly and effi- Department, which is part of the Obama been tense on Friday, although there 20 percent in the last two years. But the bill would make the process more cient markets, and facilitate capital formation.” administration. Among other things, the bill were no reports of violence. The union AMCU’s leader on Friday threatened extensive and detailed. SEC Chairman Mary Jo White told the would require the SEC to adopt rules only will be in talks with the workers and to bring Africa’s biggest economy to a In addition, the SEC would be required to financial services panel in a hearing Thursday after a “reasoned determination” that their the company’s management on standstill, ramping up the rhetoric in review all its existing rules to determine if that she is “a firm supporter of rigorous eco- benefits would outweigh their costs, to iden- Monday to find a solution to the dis- the 18-month labour crisis, while the they impose excessive costs or administrative nomic analysis,” which the agency has been tify and assess possible alternatives to pro- pute. rand fell to a four-year low against the burdens on the companies regulated by the conducting. “I do have concerns about this bill posed rules, to gauge the potential impact of The company could not be reached dollar this week on concerns about fur- agency. in terms of our being able to carry out our rules on investors and small business, and to for comment. Rustenburg, the centre ther disruptions to an already strug- Democratic lawmakers said that would rulemaking function expeditiously, and to periodically review existing rules to deter- of South Africa’s platinum belt and gling economy. home to 80 percent of known global The growing tensions have put pres- force the agency to review every rule put into provide market participants with certainty,” mine if they are overly burdensome, outdated platinum reserves, has over the past sure on President Jacob Zuma’s African effect since its creation during the Great she testified. or weak. year become the flashpoint of violent National Congress (ANC), which was Depression, with no additional funding for But Republicans insisted the change was A large coalition of consumer, union and labour strife and a turf war between criticised for its handling of last year’s SEC staff. needed to help curb runaway regulations liberal groups said in a letter to House law- the NUM and the more militant turmoil and faces accusations that it is The bill seeks to hinder the SEC’s ability to written in Washington that hurt ordinary makers that the bill “is transparently intended Association of Mineworkers and neglecting the poor 19 years after the write new rules under the 2010 financial over- Americans by raising costs for businesses. to create roadblocks in the way of passing any Construction Union (AMCU). end of apartheid. —Reuters haul and to shield Wall Street from regulation, “What it is really about is kitchen-table eco- investor protection rule.” —AP SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 BUSINESS BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé

MUNICH: At the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013, two tradition-steeped car manufacturers - the BMW Group and Pininfarina - will be straddling the auto- motive past and future as they unveil the result of their debut cooperation to the global public on 24 May: the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé. Together they have created the embodiment of sheer elegance. The BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso CoupÈ is the sequel to a new approach intro- duced at last year’s Concorso in the shape of the BMW Zagato Coupé. Always in search of opportunities for further development, the BMW Group consciously pursues creative exchange with other design studios. It enables two design approaches to merge into a new and exciting initiative that encourages fresh creative impulses. Thus the close collaboration with the Pininfarina ern harmony between power and ele- design team has led to a new automo- gance encapsulated by the V12 engine tive personality brimming with charac- under the bonnet. ter and ready to join the high-end luxu- On the inside, the BMW Gran Lusso ry class: typically BMW and bearing the CoupÈ shows this consummate blend of refined imprint of Pininfarina. The BMW contemporary elegance and luxury. Here Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé adds a the melding of exclusivity, comfort and new dimension to the BMW claim to ele- sportiness makes for a unique interior gance and exclusivity. finesse. Generous surface design and taut overhangs and a set-back greenhouse a wheel has been turned. Enhancing the experience. The fluid underlying geome- This elaborate creation is a one-off contours highlight an elegant vehicle with smoothly sloping roofline - imbue powerful impact of the side profile are try of the cabin and the classical BMW that captivates the observer at first glance body, while hallmark BMW proportions - a the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso CoupÈ convex taperings that add a dynamic ele- driver focus are lent a thoroughly new with its Italian exclusivity and modern long wheelbase, stretched bonnet, short with authoritative dynamics even before gance. The exterior symbolises the mod- touch through the influence of Pininfarina. S & P warns India could face junk status Announcement surprise finance ministry

NEW DELHI: India faces at least “a one-in-three” early amid opposition uproar over corruption say Singh is fast running out of time to complete chance of losing its prized sovereign grade rat- scandals. his legislative reform agenda. ing, global ratings agency Standard and Poor’s The shutdown stalled the economic reform “The big worry is they may have nothing to has warned, amid new threats to economic drive by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s show in their report card,” said Parsa growth and reforms. minority government, hobbled by a string of Venkateshwar Rao, a columnist for the DNA daily. The announcement surprised the finance graft controversies with two cabinet ministers S&P said it may also cut India’s ratings if it ministry which had been pitching for a ratings entangled in scandals quitting late last week. decides Asia’s third-largest economy will not upgrade, saying the government has taken The government has opened up the retail and revert to higher seven to eight percent growth strong steps to improve India’s public finances, aviation sectors to wider foreign investment and levels notched up earlier in this decade. promote investment and revive growth. partly freed fuel prices. But it has been striving to India’s growth right was bumping along at 5.0 India’s BBB-minus investment rating is already pass other bills to open the the insurance and percent for the last financial year to March 2013, WUHAN: This file photo taken on October 8, 2012 shows a visitor walking the lowest among its BRICS peers Brazil, Russia, pension sectors to more overseas investment the lowest level in a decade, but the government China and South Africa, and cutting it to “junk and streamline industrial land acquisition to spur expects it to pick up to six percent this year and is out from the entrance to the telecommunications equipment firm Huawei status” would push up the country’s hefty bor- economic growth. targeting seven percent in 2014. Technologies in Wuhan, central China’s Huwei province. —AFP rowing costs as it would signal higher risk. Leading business group, the Confederation of S&P credit analyst Takahira Ogawa said, “We “There is at least a one-in-three chance that Indian Industry, called S&P’s economic outlook have indicated compared to one year ago, there we will lower the ratings in the next 12 months,” “harsh” and said the government was making is some easing of the pressure towards the EU cites telecoms Huawei S&P said late Friday, adding “risks to India’s efforts to rein in the ballooning current account downgrade of the rating.” growth from stalled reforms in parliament still tilt deficit-the broadest measure of trade. But despite government efforts to cut red and ZTE for trade violations the credit risks to the downside.” Meanwhile, the chief economic advisor to the tape in implementing long-delayed infrastruc- NEW YORK: Europe’s top trade official for ing the EU with retaliation. European tele- The warning from S&P, which cut the outlook finance ministry, Raghuram Rajan, described ture and power projects, its “success in raising the first time late on Friday officially cited com equipment makers have not made any on India’s BBB-minus rating to negative from sta- S&P’s comments as “disappointing”. investment growth remains uncertain”, he Chinese mobile telecommunications equip- complaints for fear of Chinese reprisals. ble last year, came after parliament adjourned But with the 2014 elections looming, analysts added. —AFP ment makers Huawei and ZTE Corp for vio- Therefore if the EU makes the case, it does lating anti-dumping and anti-subsidy guide- so for the first time on its own initiative, Qatar Airways announces lines. known as ex-officio. European manufacturer European Union Trade Commissioner Ericsson is the global leader with a 35 per- codeshare flights Karel De Gucht said he was prepared to cent market share. It said it opposed the with Bangkok Airways launch a formal investigation into anti-com- Commission’s move. petitive behavior by these Chinese compa- “I don’t want to elaborate on what could BANGKOK: Qatar Airways yesterday announced a new nies in order to protect a “strategic” sector of be the sanctions... Everybody knows. The codeshare agreement with Bangkok Airways to destina- Europe’s economy. Chinese know our procedures as well as we tions across Thailand and the capital cities of neighbouring “Huawei and ZTE are dumping their do. They are very well aware of what is in our Cambodia and Myanmar. products on the European market,” De Gucht toolbox,” De Gucht said. Effective May 15, the agreement sees Qatar Airways’ QR told Reuters in an exclusive interview before China exports network equipment, base flight code on services beyond the Thai capital wiith engaging with US businesses as part of his stations and connections used by telecom Bangkok Airways to a raft of destinations giving passen- preparations for negotiating a Transatlantic providers to transmit voice and data mes- gers more convenient and greater access to markets. free trade pact with the United States. Those sages worth more than 1 billion euros a year The domestic Thai codeshare destinations to and from talks are expected to begin in July. to the EU, giving it almost a quarter of the Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport are Samui, An investigation now into sales practices market. Phuket, Chiang Mai, Trat, Sukhothai, Lampang, Krabi. In of Chinese telecoms equipment companies Meanwhile, De Gucht would not com- addition, Qatar Airways will also codeshare with Bangkok would open up a new front in a multibillion- ment on whether he will go ahead with Airways on flights from Bangkok to Phnom Penh and euro trade offensive against a critical part- imposing punitive import duties on 21 bil- Yangon, the capital cities of Cambodia and Myanmar ner. lion euros worth of imported Chinese solar respectively. The EU is China’s most important trading panels. The European Commission agreed to Customers can now make bookings through their local partner, while for the EU, China is second his proposal for a 47 percent tariff, which he travel agent, any Qatar Airways office or through the air- only to the United States. Chinese exports of can formally declare on June 6 if it is pub- line’s website www.qatarairways.com goods to the 27-member bloc totaled 290 lished in the EU’s Official Journal. Passengers travelling from many of Qatar Airways’ key SINGAPORE: This photograph taken on April 18, 2013 shows employees billion euros ($372 billion) last year, with 144 While Europe battles with China over markets in Europe, North America, South America, Africa arranging jewellery at a newly opened Moneymax outlet, locally owned by billion euros going the other way. trade, given 18 out of 31 ongoing trade and the Middle East to and from southeast Asia can take jewellery firm Soo Kee Group at the Woodlands SMRT train station in Cheap capital for these Chinese compa- investigations are with Beijing, De Gucht advantage of the new codeshare agreement with Bangkok Singapore. As more residents seek more funds for basic needs, Singapore’s nies “creates a distorted playing field and said he is eager for talks to start with Airways for greater access to more markets. that is what this is about,” De Gucht said, Washington on a trade pact focused on pawnshop industry has seen phenomenal growth at a time when prices are Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker rising but a slowing economy has led to stagnated wage growth for middle- referring to Huawei and ZTE, respectively making each other’s regulations more com- said: “Qatar Airways’ hub in Doha is strategically well placed the world’s No. 2 and No. 5 telecom equip- patible. to connect East and West, and through this new partner- and lower-income families. —AFP ment makers. Huawei denied it had broken “The most important part of that agree- ship with Bangkok Airways we are able to cater to passen- any rules. ment, because it would be a real game- gers who wish to seamlessly connect onwards to further Singapore cost of living “In Europe and in all markets, Huawei changer, is the regulatory (component),” he destinations in countries where the airline already has an always plays fair and we win business and said. established presence - in Thailand, Cambodia and trust from our customers through our inno- The EU and the United States account for Myanmar. sees pawnshops thrive vative technology and quality service, rather nearly half of the world’s economic output “This new codeshare with Bangkok Airways gives our SINGAPORE: Singaporean housewife Siti centrations of millionaires relative to its than via pricing or subsidies,” the company and 30 percent of trade, with goods and passengers greater and easier access to more points across Khadijah Abdul Rahman accumulated a population, but the city-state’s per capita said in a statement e-mailed to Reuters. services worth $2.7 billion traded bilaterally Thailand which is one of our most popular destinations in few thousand dollars’ worth of gold acces- income of more than Sg$65,000 in 2012 Separately, the official China Daily quot- every day. Those figures were released in Asia.” sories over the past two decades, but now masks a sharp income gap between the ed Huawei’s Western Europe president Tao February when the two sides announced Qatar Airways currently operates non-stop flights a rising cost of living is forcing her to pawn richest and poorest. Jingwen as saying that the firm’s rivals were they would launch bilateral trade talks. between Doha and Bangkok four-times-daily and also them. The three major pawnshop chains- blaming the company for their own failures. However US President Barack Obama’s serves Phuket in Thailand daily from the Qatari capital. In With a stretched household budget that which make up the bulk of the nearly 200 “Some European companies have blamed pick for the US Trade Representative cabinet addition, Qatar Airways serves both Phnom Penh and must also cater to school expenses for her pawnshops across the island nation of 5.3 Chinese companies for their losses, but post, Mike Froman, has yet to be confirmed. Yangon daily from Doha. two teenage children, the 49 year-old is million people-have sought to take the sometimes they were caused by their own Froman is the White House chief internation- Bangkok Airways Senior Vice President Network pawning her gold to relieve pressure on shame out of using personal property as laziness,” Tao said in a report carried before al economic affairs advisor, a job he has held Management Peter Wiesner added: “This new partnership her security guard husband, who earns collateral for short term loans. the publication of De Gucht’s remarks. since Obama took office in 2009. will offer better flight connectivity for passengers travelling Sg$1,500 ($1,211) a month. “You look around you, this is probably ZTE could not be reached immediately Ahead of the talks France has already on long-haul routes with Qatar Airways to Bangkok for “Pawning is better than going to friends one of the most expensive places in the for comment, but the company has also in pushed to exclude from negotiation the their onward journey within Thailand, Cambodia and or family when you have budget problems,” world,” said Derek Da Cunha, a local socio- the past denied benefiting from illegal state movie and television industries. France has Myanmar. said Abdul Rahman. “When I have money, I political observer. support. long defended a “cultural exception” in trade “Moreover, Thailand’s key destinations, namely Samui, will claim it back.” “Without the stigma (of borrowing), De Gucht’s office on Wednesday said an affairs in what it sees is a need to protect Phuket and Chiang Mai always have great potential which She is one of a rapidly increasing num- pawnshops have become more respectable investigation was prepared but put on hold. European arts from Hollywood-driven mar- attract a large number of tourists. Therefore, we believe ber of people opting to take short-term and we have working professionals using it At the time no companies were officially ket forces. this partnership will offer a unique service for Qatar pawnshop loans to try to keep up with ris- as a means to get short-term loans to cope named. The pause is to allow further negoti- According to the latest data from the Airways’ passengers and will strengthen Bangkok Airways’ ing prices, in what the Economist with their expenses.” ations with China in hopes for a resolution. Motion Picture Association of America, U.S. extensive network as well as boosting tourism in Thailand Intelligence Unit has ranked the world’s Families like Abdul Rahman’s in the bot- “We have already had three rounds of film and television services exports in 2010 and Asia.” sixth most expensive city to live in. tom 10 percent of Singapore households negotiations on that, but without any satis- were $13.5 billion, down 2 percent from Qatar Airways is one of the world’s fastest growing air- Singapore’s pawnshop industry has had to weather a 1.2 percent dip in income factory outcome,” he said. “I think it is better 2009 but up 6 percent over 2006. lines currently operating a modern fleet of 124 aircraft to seen phenomenal growth at a time when adjusted for inflation last year, statistics for the whole world economy and trade that De Gucht said the EU would not put on 126 destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia rising prices and a slowing economy are department data showed. these two big trading partners come to an the table “a cut to the subsidies for European Pacific, North America and South America from its strategi- putting pressure on the household budg- Healthcare costs rose 3.9 percent on- amicable solution on what is in fact a very film producers.” Instead, for the first time, he cally located hub in Doha, capital of the State of Qatar. ets of middle- and lower- income families. year in 2012 according to government strategic and crucial sector. But you need is arguing the audiovisual sector should be The airline has an aggressive growth strategy, with four Loans surged to Sg$7.1 billion in 2012, up data. A consumer group said the average two to tango and we have the necessary included so European businesses could ben- new routes already launched this year - Gassim (Saudi 43 percent on-year, according to industry price of a bowl of noodles with fishballs, a resolve to go for it if necessary,” he said. efit from developments in the digital media Arabia), Najaf (Iraq), Phnom Penh (Cambodia) and Chicago registry data. staple dish, was 20 percent higher in 2012 China responded on Thursday, threaten- sphere. —Reuters (USA). Singapore has one of the highest con- from a year ago at Sg$3. —AFP SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 BUSINESS

Citadel Capital discusses emerging market opportunities

WASHINGTON: Hisham El-Khazindar, Co- Capital’s platform company, Mashreq, Euro V diesel (the cleanest-burning diesel management and its local partners to Founder and Managing Director of singed a 25-year concession agreement fuel in the world). implement a three-point turnaround pro- Citadel Capital, took part in a panel on to build a unique EGP 3 billion tank farm “In East Africa a growing consumer gram with investments of US$ 287 mil- emerging market opportunities and on the Suez Canal that will serve the glob- base, natural resource discoveries and lion. RVR is helping open doors to intra- trends at the IFC-EMPEA annual gathering al shipping market and be a backup improved governance are driving growth African trade by bringing transport costs in Washington DC, outlining the strong Egypt’s national energy security policy. and creating unique opportunities in sev- down by as much as 35% - a savings that upside potential for sustainable, high- “In Egypt, the Arab Spring and has eral sectors. should have a substantial impact on busi- growth investments in Africa and the brought about a new set of political and We see opportunity to create value in nesses and consumers alike. Middle East. economic challenges that have presented sectors such as infrastructure that will “Investments like RVR that can be a Citadel Capital), the leading invest- some key investment opportunities. For serve as a catalyst for Africa’s growth. The part of Africa’s growth story are not busi- ment company in Africa and the Middle example, the energy sector in Egypt is in insufficient amount and quality of infra- nesses that lend themselves to short East with US$ 9.5 billion in investments dire need of new investment to upgrade structure is currently a major impediment holding periods. As an investment com- under control, took part in the 15th annu- existing power plants and power trans- to developing trade, creating jobs and pany we are now focusing on taking a al IFC Global Private Equity Conference mission networks as well as investments improving competitiveness on the conti- much longer 10-15 year view on opportu- held in association with EMPEA in in new power generation and refining nent,” said El-Khazindar. nities versus the traditional 3-5 year pri- Washington, DC on 14-16 May. capacity to meet increased local demand “According to recent statistics from the vate equity industry view,” said El- Citadel Capital Co-Founder and for electricity and petroleum products,” African Development Bank, Africa needs Khazindar. “The bottom line: Long term Managing Director, Hisham El-Khazindar said El-Khazindar. “Given Egypt’s con- US$93 billion annually until 2020 for infra- confidence in these markets has to trans- participated in a panel discussion entitled strained financial and organizational structure development. As urbanization late into long-term investment strategies.” “A Macro Perspective: Emerging Markets resources, much of this infrastructure increases, consumer markets grow and Citadel Capital is currently transform- Opportunities and Trends,” which featured development should be driven by the more countries on the continent develop ing its business model from a private global industry leaders with significant local and international private sector, in broader ties to the global economy, the equity firm to an investment company to emerging market expertise and insights the form of public private partnerships,” need for infrastructure investments, par- Hisham El-Khazindar create long-term value for its sharehold- into the challenges and constraints of he added. ticularly those related to energy and ers by focusing on a smaller number of emerging market private equity. Citadel Capital’s Egyptian Refining transportation, will multiply,” adds El- and value-added exports. high-potential, unique platform compa- “In many instances a crisis situation Company (ERC), a $3.7 billion greenfield Khazindar. Among the firm’s notable African nies in five core industries; energy, trans- can create opportunity,” said El-Khazindar. petroleum refining upgrade project in the Egypt has been Citadel Capital’s center investments is Rift Valley Railways (RVR), portation, agrifoods, mining and cement, “Across Egypt, East Africa and North Greater Cairo Area will reduce Egypt’s of gravity since inception. In 2006 the which holds a concession to operate the which are underpinned by outstanding Africa, we see excellent investment present-day diesel imports by more than firm began investing directly in sub- national railways of Kenya and Uganda, economic fundamentals. The firm aims to opportunities in sometimes challenging half, eliminate approximately 93,000 tons Saharan Africa and has historically striven linking the Indian Ocean port of add value by building sustainable busi- countries that are in need of manage- of sulfur emissions annually, and produce to broaden investor interest in African Mombasa to the interiors of Kenya and nesses in industries that will be the ment expertise and capital.” over 4.2 million tons of refined products opportunities particularly those that Uganda, including the Ugandan capital of engines of growth and economic devel- In the midst of challenging economic and high-quality oil derivatives per year move away from pure commodities and Kampala. For the past two years, Citadel opment in its core footprint, Africa and and political conditions in Egypt, Citadel including 3 million tons of jet fuel and towards infrastructure, manufacturing Capital has been working with the RVR the Middle East.

Mercedes-Benz Kuwait nominated for Best Mobile website at Mobies

KUWAIT: Mercedes-Benz Kuwait has Alkazemi Co. said: “A highly connect- made in March 2012 alone, Kuwait fans of the three pointed star, conve- been nominated for the Best Mobile ed market, nearly a third of all Kuwait represents over 8% of all tweets in the niently opening two way online com- Website award at this year’s The has a Facebook account and more Arab world. Mercedes-Benz Kuwait’s munications to provide and discuss Mobile Show Middle East. A.R. than six million pictures with the growing online presence goes a step the latest news and key develop- Albisher and Z. Alkazemi Co. - the hashtag #kuwait have been shared further in connecting with this new ments at A.R. Albisher and Z. exclusive general distributor for on Instagram. With 60 million tweets internet savvy generation of Kuwaiti Alkazemi Co.” Mercedes-Benz in Kuwait - launched The most important feature of the the mobile enabled web portal earlier Mercedes-Benz Kuwait portal, this year using the latest technology www.mbkuwait.com, is that it’s acces- to connect with its customers and sible through a variety of platforms - offer them the best services available mainly iOS, Android and Windows - on the go. so customers can navigate with a The Mobile Show Middle East, bet- variety of different mobile phones ter known as the ‘Mobies’, is a presti- just as easily. The portal is also built to gious annual exhibition that cele- grow - specifically to include addi- brates the best in mobile phone tech- tional information, events and servic- nologies and innovations from across es exclusive for the Kuwaiti market. the Middle East. The exhibition will be “Mercedes-Benz is world- held from 14-15 May at the Dubai renowned for its edge on technology, International Convention Centre, and our nomination at the Mobies is capped by an awards ceremony to testament to our efforts to set new Forbes ranks Lulu crown the top achievers in mobile standards of customer service by creations. offering the very best, whether it be Michael Ruehle, General Manager, digital, over the phone or in our 3rd most impactful Abdul Rahman Albisher & Zaid showrooms,” added Ruehle. company in Arab world Etihad Airways opens new route to ABU DHABI: Lulu Hypermarket Group has men and people from all walks of life. been ranked 3rd in the prestigious “Forbes National Commercial Bank of Saudi TOP 100 companies” making an Impact in Arabia bagged the first position while UAE’s Washington for Kuwait passengers the Arab world. Al Futtaim Group secured the second posi- Lulu is the only Indian company to be fea- tion. The list covers companies operating in ABU DHABI: Etihad Airways, the national airline the US capital, and onwards to key cities across Etihad Airways service from our guests across the tured in the top 10. At a glittering ceremony Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, of the United Arab Emirates, has opened new North America. Arab Gulf region,” said James Hogan, President held at Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi HH Sheikh Bahrain and Lebanon. The main criteria routes between Kuwait and Washington, D.C., the Etihad Airways serves the Abu Dhabi - and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways. Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister used for ranking are financial results, CSR capital of the United States, offering Kuwait- Washington, D.C., route with ultra-long range When travelling from Kuwait, the airline’s of Culture, Youth and Social Development programmes, global presence, number of based travellers with greater access and conven- Airbus A340-500 aircraft, seating 240 passengers Diamond First and Pearl Business Class guests can presented the award to Yusuff Ali MA, subsidiaries, employee strength, and the ient connections via its hub in Abu Dhabi. in a spacious three-class cabin - 12 in Diamond relax in style in the Etihad Airways signature Managing Director of Lulu Group which was assessments of independent auditors and lounge at Abu Dhabi International Airport, where attended by goverment officials, business- Forbes research team. they can enjoy a wide range of exclusive services including soothing relaxation spaces, elegant fine dining areas, state-of-the-art business amenities, luxurious bathrooms with invigorating shower facilities, and family entertainment areas. The airline has also opened a new prestigious premium lounge facility at Dulles International Airport in Washington, DC. Located next to the airline’s departure gate in Terminal A, the lounge provides premium passengers with unfettered and convenient direct access to the aircraft with- out having to go through a traditional departure gate. Washington, D.C., is the fourth North American destination for Etihad Airways after New York, Chicago and Toronto. Etihad Airways’ flights from Kuwait to Washington, D.C. operate daily, with flight EY306 departing Kuwait at 4:20am, and arriving at Abu Dhabi International Airport at 7:00am. For the onward leg, flight EY131 departs Abu Dhabi at 10:00am and arrives in Washington, D.C. at Nadeem Shafi 5:00pm the same day. Etihad Airways commenced non-stop daily First, 28 in Pearl Business and 200 in Coral On the return, flight EY130 departs Washington flights to Washington, D.C., on April 1. The new Economy Class. at 10:15pm and arrives in Abu Dhabi at 7:45pm Ernst & Young launches new service was introduced to meet the strong “Washington has established itself as one of the following day. On the return flight to Kuwait, demand for government and business travel, as the world’s most popular destinations and we flight EY307 departs Abu Dhabi at 8:50pm and training courses across MENA well as the growing demand for leisure trips to anticipate tremendous demand for this new arrives at Kuwait International Airport at 9:30pm. DUBAI: Ernst & Young has launched new and management development content training courses which provide business such as courses on International Financial communities across MENA with a one-stop- Reporting Standards (IFRS), finance and shop for their training needs. The initiative accounting related courses, professional How to use CSR to attract talent aims to help businesses improve their per- qualifications (e.g., CPA, ACCA, AAT, FIA, formance, reshape their business and sus- CIMA, CMA, APRM, PRM, CIA and PMP etc.), KUWAIT: Have you incorporated corporate 1. Attracting talent greater community in a tangible manner. tain their future through a wide range of specialist courses on business process social responsibility (CSR) into your business While you’re fighting to get top talent for courses that optimize team skills, and create improvement, business valuations, financial strategy but you’re still wondering about why your company, make sure to include reference 3. Retaining talent awareness around new or changing trends and business modelling, risk management, employees aren’t knocking down your door? to your CSR efforts everywhere - from your Regular CSR communication and initiatives in specific industries. All of the courses are anti-money laundering, competency-based Don’t be surprised; this in fact, is a question job descriptions and job ads, to interviews, are important to preserve the level of engage- run and delivered by the Ernst & Young human resources and people development that many employers ask themselves. Here benefits packages, and job offers. ment and secure employee buy-in. Employees MENA Training Center which serves as the courses as well as many others. The sector- the HR experts at Bayt.com, the Middle East’s feel proud of and remain loyal to companies training hub in the MENA region and are based training helps businesses to identify #1 Jobsite, will help you find ways to use CSR 2. Becoming an employer of choice which involve their workforce in CSR initia- centralized on the recently launched web- the specific new skills and experience need- to attract and engage talent. According to the Bayt.com “Employee tives. These activities are not only good for site (www.eytrainingcenter.com). ed for their industry. In the grand scheme of things, CSR is still an Motivation in the MENA” survey, January 2013, the local community, but also form great Nadeem Shafi, MENA Leader, Financial “The courses are tailor made to the spe- emerging field, which means that everything - the majority of MENA companies (59%) are opportunities to build teams, boost morale, Accounting Advisory Services, Ernst & cific needs of each business. Every company from strategy to implementation - is still being engaged in CSR activities. Being an employer and enable people to make a difference. Young, said: “In today’s testing business has its own priorities, driven by the industry tested. What we know, however, is that CSR ini- of choice is a reputation you build in your environment, high-quality training is a cru- in which it operates, its competitive situa- tiatives reveal the true values of a company. industry to attract top talent. Think about 4. Engaging employees cial element of innovative talent manage- tion, the products and services it offers, its CSR humanizes your business in ways that oth- what a potential employee considers before This can be done by communicating CSR ment, to improve performance and ensure go-to-market strategies, and the culture of er facets of your work cannot; it depicts it as a agreeing to join your company. Do you active- efforts to employees, seeking their input that businesses can respond to challenges. its management and organization,” said contributor to society rather than an entity ly serve your community? Does your mission about where the company should direct its As organizations are looking to identify and Nadeem. concerned solely with maximizing profits. interest and attract the people you most want CSR efforts, celebrating successes with implement employee cost reduction initia- The courses are delivered and conducted to recruit? employees along the way and educating tives, they also need to find ways of retain- by skilled trainers through a range of Engaging employees in CSR Employees feel a greater sense of pride employees by offering customized work- ing and developing their top talent.” approaches to suit different learning meth- starts at the very beginning and purpose working for an employer that is shops, trainings and educational activities. The three types of training courses ods and to cater to busy professionals. These A good idea would be to communicate publicly committed to altruism, particularly After all, what professionals want most is to offered are general open-house training, include eLearning enabled classroom ses- your CSR efforts at all stages of the recruit- when the causes the company is committed simply work for a company with values they sector-based training and customized/tai- sions, remote learning sessions for individu- ment process to benefit from its full potential. to are in-line with theirs, and benefit the too believe in. —Bayt.com lored business-specific training solutions. als, webinars and seminars/group sessions The open-house training includes technical with case studies and discussion topics. SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 technology A new focus on 16th century world view Google, Apple, Facebook looking at mapping apps

WASHINGTON: As online titans compete Waldseemuller’s mammoth map for Last week, Google unveiled a map to honor Florentine navigator Amerigo rare because they had to be laboriously to deliver instant maps to smartphones, more than a century. application that the search engine giant Vespucci, who explored the east coast of printed. Waldseemuller wrote that there the Library of Congress in Washington is It shows two continents across the said will customize the known world for what is now known as South America. were 1,000 copies of his 1507 map; the focusing attention on an antique “cos- ocean from Europe, with a skinny isth- every user. This competes with Apple’s Because other known continents had Library of Congress has the only one mology” printed in 1507 that serves as mus between them, an embryonic iMap app and possibly with Facebook, feminine endings in Latin - Africa, Asia known to survive. America’s birth certificate. The black-and- Florida peninsula, a western mountain which is creating a map app of its own, as and Europa - he feminized Amerigo to Digital technology, satellite naviga- white map created by Martin range on the northern continent, and on reported by USA Today. “We have a uni- America, said John Hessler, a curator in tion and easy data availability now has Waldseemuller, a French cleric, was the the southern continent, a clearly lettered versal need to know where we are on the the library’s geography and map division. made maps ubiquitous, said Joseph first time the name America had name: “America.” These maps are essen- globe and where we are in the world; it’s Also on this map, six years before Kerski, a geographer at Environmental appeared on any map. Waldseemuller tial for the same reason a smartphone is one of the things that transcends time Vasco de Balboa encountered it and 15 Systems Research Institute in Broomfield, was prescient enough to show the Rocky better with satellite images of Earth, and space,” said John Hessler, a library years after Columbus’ seminal voyage, is Colorado. Mountains and the Pacific Ocean at a according to Ralph Ehrenberg, chief of map curator and Waldseemuller expert. an ocean east of Asia, now known as the “We’re at a moment in time now time when no one else in Europe the library’s geography and map division: Pacific. So how did Waldseemuller know? where all of a sudden everything we thought they were there. people want to know where they came OUT OF GEOGRAPHIC He talked about new Portuguese sailing know, everything we touch is being geo- The map, purchased a decade ago at a from. COMFORT ZONE charts, and according to one theory, may enabled,” Kerski said by telephone. Still, cost of $10 million, is the centerpiece of Waldseemuller’s maps came at a time That geographic comfort zone was have heard the Chinese claim that they the role of maps is essentially an exhibit at the Library of Congress run- of geographic exploration, technological unsettled in Waldseemuller’s day. His had already discovered the Americas. unchanged. While most of Earth’s terrain ning through June 22 that features a col- advance, societal ferment and expanding best-known maps were made between Hessler discounted this. “He knows it’s a has already been explored, Kerski said, lection of artifacts from Waldseemuller communication - a time much like our 1492, when Christopher Columbus really radical geography,” Hessler said. A mapping continues into such diverse and his colleagues. It includes later maps own, Ehrenberg said in an interview. The arrived at what he thought was Asia, and map notation reassures viewers that his areas as social networks and microbial that lose faith in Waldseemuller’s vision new way of communication in 1507 was 1543, when astronomer Nicolaus was an unusual and forward-looking activity in soil. of America. In a 1516 world map, the printing with mechanical type, he said, Copernicus rocked the Renaissance with world view. “We may not be exploring new lands Americas are called “Terra Ultra while “now we have Google Earth, which his theory that Earth revolved around the Mariners, clerics, scholars and noble per se, but we’re still exploring and maps Incognita” - a faraway unknown country. is a new way of looking at the world Sun, instead of the other way around. folk were the only map consumers in are still powerful, just as they always have Still, the Library of Congress had pursued today.” Waldseemuller chose the name America Waldseemuller’s time, and maps were been,” the geographer said. — Reuters ‘Sonic’ video games coming to Nintendo Microsoft expected to unveil new Xbox console

LOS ANGELES: Sonic the Hedgehog is rolling with Nintendo. Sega says it will exclusively release the next three games starring the popu- lar blue critter on Nintendo platforms. The first title will be called “Sonic Lost World” and is set for release on the Wii U and Nintendo 3DS later this year. “With ‘Sonic Lost World,’ we’re going to intro- duce new gameplay and enemies, which is always fun,” said John Cheng, president and chief operating officer of Sega of America Inc. “In terms of Sonic and his friends, he’ll have his same friends there, and I think there’ll be some new HONG KONG: This picture shows people looking at an electric taxi on a street in ones as well. It’s not a reiteration. It’s going to be Hong Kong. — AFP all new.” The original fast-paced side-scrolling “Sonic Hong Kong launches the Hedgehog” debuted in 1991. The twirling, ring-hoarding hedgehog became Sega’s mascot and a video-game icon rivaling the likes of Mario first electric taxis and Pac-Man. While his recent interactive exploits haven’t achieved the same level of suc- HONG KONG: Hong Kong saw its first elec- more,” he added, saying that a normal taxi cess as previous “Sonic” outings, the character tric taxis hit the streets yesterday in a step would cost HK$0.8 (10 US cents) to run per has remained a presence in pop culture, appear- This image shows Sonic (left) and sidekick, Tails, in the 2006 video game “Sonic the Hedgehog,” towards reducing the city’s high levels of kilometer (0.6 miles) while an electric car ing in cartoons, downloadable games and the for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. — AP roadside pollution. The 45 bright red cars would cost HK$0.2-HK$0.3. Disney film “Wreck-It Ralph.” “The onetime rivalry were launched by Chinese electric vehicle He called for more charging stations between Mario and Sonic has grown into a series. Cheng said the characters would be back stopped producing its own game consoles in producer BYD, which is partly backed by US around the city to encourage taxi drivers to friendship that has never been closer,” said for more match-ups in “Mario & Sonic at the 2001, Sega began releasing “Sonic” games for investment titan Warren Buffett. Called the go electric-BYD said it is setting up 47 Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games.” Over the other systems, including Sony Corp.’s PlayStation BYD e6, the five-door crossover sedans are chargers in nine charging locations near car in a statement. past 22 years, Sonic and his friends have starred and Microsoft Corp.’s Xbox. Microsoft is expected powered by iron phosphate batteries and parks. “These announcements in conjunction with in dozens of games, including the hallmark 1992 to unveil a new Xbox console at an event in take two hours to charge, a statement from Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary John Sega demonstrate the commitment we have to sequel “Sonic the Hedgehog 2,” 1997 3-D racer Seattle next week, following Sony’s tease of the BYD said, adding that they can then travel Tsang was quoted in a BYD statement as bringing great games to the Wii U platform, and “Sonic R,” 2002 hand-held adventure “Sonic forthcoming PlayStation 4 earlier this year in New for 300 kilometers. The cars have been rent- welcoming the electric car and saying he set the stage for our upcoming announcements Advance” and 2011 anniversary mash-up “Sonic York. Last fall, Nintendo launched the next gener- ed by the Hong Kong Taxi and Public Light was committed to “promoting environmen- at E3.” Sonic has competed against Nintendo Co.’s Generations.” Sega says more than 75 million ation of gaming consoles with the Wii U, which Bus Association, which is testing them over tal sustainability by laying the foundation mustachioed spokesman Mario since 2007 in the games and smartphone apps featuring Sonic comes with a tabletlike controller called the the next six months. for Hong Kong to become a zero emissions “Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games” mini-game have been sold worldwide. After the publisher GamePad. — AP “The idea of being environmentally city”. The government announced revisions friendly is a global trend and the electric to its air quality objectives for the first time car is one good example,” said Wong Chung in 25 years in January 2012, after University Keung, president and chairman of the asso- of Hong Kong research showed pollution- Companies launch cyber ‘war’ ciation. “An electric car saves the cost of related illnesses killed more than 3,000 resi- fuel and will allow our taxi drivers to earn dents a year. — AFP games to prepare for hackers Yahoo Japan suspects CALIFORNIA: Clusters of corporate using “cyberwar games” to learn $591,780 - and rising. In response, the first time they are up against techies hunched over their laptops how to spot and counter the tricky companies are sending their something, it’s actually something one recent evening in Mountain tactics used by hackers. “It keeps employees to so-called cyber- they’ve practiced.” In Symantec’s vir- 22 million IDs stolen View, Calif., feverishly trying to fig- you on your toes,” said Michael ranges and other venues to engage tual contest, which was akin to a ure out how RK Industries hacked Scheck, an information security in make-believe hacking scenarios. video game, participants were giv- TOKYO: Yahoo Japan Corp has said it sus- the top search engine position in Japan into and stole critical information investigations manager at Cisco In a survey of about 1,400 business- en hints that helped them hack into pects up to 22 million user IDs may have with a more than 50 percent market share, from its rival, EntraDyn. It’s a com- Systems, which hosts its own war es last year, management consult- the fictional RK Industries and fig- been stolen during an unauthorized compared with around 40 percent for rival mon occurrence, but in this case the games and takes part in others. In ant McKinsey & Co said it found that ure out what RK stole from attempt to access the administrative sys- Google. In 2011, Sony said information firms were fictitious, and the event - the fast-evolving combat with com- 3 percent of them had conducted EntraDyn. “Think of it as a giant tem of its Yahoo! Japan portal. “We don’t such as usernames, passwords and birth a simulated exercise put on by secu- puter-savvy antagonists, he said, “cyberwar games to help ensure scavenger hunt, where you are giv- know if the file (of 22 million user IDs) was dates of more than 100 million people may rity firm Symantec - featured rock “you have to play cat and mouse.” they are ready to manage a cyberat- en a riddle or clue about how to leaded or not, but we can’t deny the possi- have been compromised after hackers music, a buffet and an open bar for Getting bested by the bad guys tack.” find something,” said Josh Chin, bility given the volume of traffic between struck the PlayStation Network and Sony the participants. can be expensive. A study spon- McKinsey wouldn’t identify the executive director of Southern our server and external” terminals, the Online Entertainment services. Even so, it had a serious purpose: sored by Hewlett-Packard last year respondents, but noted that “most California-based Net Force, who company said in a statement late Friday. Japan acknowledges that its preventive Increasingly under Internet attack, concluded the average cost of a were in high tech and financial serv- placed third in the competition. The information did not include pass- measures against cyber attacks remain more and more businesses are cyberattack on a US company was ices.” Although several of those Besides teaching him how to words and the kind of data necessary to underdeveloped, with the national police attending Symantec’s event at the better guard his client’s data, he verify a user’s identity or reset passwords, it agency having announced this month it Computer History Museum didn’t said, such exercises offer a way to said, adding that the company had updat- would launch a team to analyze and com- want their employers identified, “show how good you are” when pit- ed its security measures to prevent a repeat bat cyberattacks. Japan Aerospace Meteoroid impact triggers companies represented there ted against other security experts. of the incident. Yahoo Japan is 35.5 per- Exploration Agency said last month that included Intel Corp subsidiary Wind During an earlier challenge cent held by Japan’s mobile phone opera- information related to the International bright flash on the moon River Systems, Tesla Motors Inc. and Symantec hosted for its own tor SoftBank, and 34.7 percent held by US Space Station may have been leaked dur- CAPE CANAVERAL: An automated when it slammed into the moon Google Inc. Many firms also routine- employees, one grandstanding Internet giant Yahoo! Inc. ing an unauthorized attempt to access its telescope monitoring the moon has and exploded with the force of five ly test their ability to withstand prankster even surreptitiously Its popular portal Yahoo! Japan holds system. — AFP captured images of an 88-pound tons of TNT. attacks, including utility Pacific Gas hacked into the game’s scoreboard, rock slamming into the lunar sur- That same night, cameras & Electric. according to spokeswoman Pamela face, creating a bright flash of light, detected an unusually high number Using employees he calls “my Reese. She said she wasn’t sure NASA scientists said on Friday. The of meteors blasting through Earth’s ninjas” who periodically attempt to what the person was up to, but fig- hack into the utility, James Sample, ured it was “either to improve their explosion on March 17 was the atmosphere as well. Most meteors its chief information security officer, score or mess around with players’ biggest seen since NASA began burn up well before reaching the said “we do mock-up scenarios” to names.” watching the moon for meteoroid ground. But not always. In February, assess the company’s vulnerability Cisco’s Scheck said his company impacts about eight years ago. So an asteroid estimated to be about to cyberattacks. Firms find the war also has taken part in war games far, more than 300 strikes have been 66 feet in diameter exploded over games especially helpful, where put on by the US Department of recorded. “It exploded in a flash Chelyabinsk, Russia, damaging they compete against other compa- Homeland Security and other feder- nearly 10 times as bright as any- buildings and shattering glass, leav- nies to see who can best respond to al agencies, some of which had the thing we’ve ever seen before,” Bill ing more than 1,500 injured. It was hypothetical cyber incursions. businesses work together to blunt Cooke, with NASA’s Meteoroid the largest object to strike Earth Mountain View-based Symantec, cyberattacks. That’s been helpful, he Environment Office at the Marshall since 1908. which sells widely used Norton said, because to counter sophisti- Space Flight Center in Huntsville, “The Russian fireball was many antivirus software, puts on these cated and organized hackers, “cor- Alabama, said in a statement. orders of magnitude larger and “cyber readiness challenges” world- porations are realizing they need to A NASA satellite orbiting the possessed 100,000 times more wide. It contends the games help share more information with each moon is now on a hunt for the new- energy,” than the lunar impact, participants think like hackers, so other to make life more difficult for ly formed crater, which scientists Cooke wrote in an email to Reuters. they can better recognize and their adversaries.” Finding skilled estimate could be as wide as 66 feet He believes the lunar impact and respond to their corporations’ vul- workers for that fight is another pri- (20 meters). The flash was so bright the March 17 meteor shower on nerabilities. “Every day you hear ority. that anyone looking at the moon at Earth are related, the result of both about new attacks,” said Samir In March, Cisco, Workday, the moment of impact could have bodies traveling together through Kapuria, Symantec’s vice president McAfee, PG&E and other companies seen it without a telescope, NASA a region of space sprinkled with of business strategy and security sponsored a cyberwar game in said. After reviewing digital record- small rocks and dust. “We’ll be intelligence. Pomona for college students, dur- ings made by one of the program’s keeping an eye out for signs of a “What we try to do is take that ing which several of the firms telescopes, scientists determined repeat performance next year knowledge of what’s happening to recruited the players for their securi- VIRGINIA: A dog and ferret smell each other during the 5th annual BlogPaws 2013 the space rock was about 1 foot (0.3 when the Earth-moon system pass- companies and organizations ty departments, according to Daniel conference May 16, 2013 in Tysons Corner, Virginia. BlogPaws organized the confer- meters) in diameter, and traveling es through the same region of around the world, and weave that Manson, a computer information ence for pet bloggers and their pets to gather and meet, attend workshops and view about 56,000 mph (90,123 kph) space,” Cooke said. — Reuters into the scenarios.” That way, he systems professor who helped products. — AFP added, they can “hone their skills so organize the event. —MCT SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 HEALTH & SCIENCE AIDS science at 30 ‘Cure’ now part of lexicon PARIS: Big names in medicine are set to give an lure it out of its hiding place. We’ve learnt a lot said Fauci. The other is a small French study of 14 upbeat assessment of the war on AIDS on about this in the past few years,” said Sharon HIV patients, known as the VISCONTI cohort, giv- Tuesday, 30 years after French researchers iden- Lewin, a professor at Monash University in en drugs very soon-within 10 weeks-after infec- tified the virus that causes the disease. Melbourne, Australia. tion. Treatment normally starts only once the Scientists will pay tribute to the astonishing suc- ‘Functional cure’- Lewin is part of a team cau- immune system becomes compromised, some- cess of AIDS drugs and highlight steps being tiously experimenting with an anti-cancer drug times years after infection. taken towards a cure-a goal once deemed all but to flush out the virus that destroys the immune The VISCONTI group stopped taking the daily out of reach. system and exposes infected people to pneumo- drugs after about three years, and have Entitled “Imagine the Future,” the three-day nia, TB, and other opportunistic diseases. remained healthy. conference builds on the 30th anniversary on In trials on 20 patients, the cancer drug And crucially, none of the individuals are Monday of the isolation of the human immun- awoke the dormant virus in 90 percent of volun- among that rare group of people fewer than one odeficiency virus (HIV). The Nobel-winning teers. The ultimate goal is to kill the newly- percent of the population-who seem able to nat- achievement, by a team led by Luc Montagnier exposed virus, leaving the cell it hid in to die urally stave off HIV and are known as “natural” or of France’s Pasteur Institute, unmasked a killer. eventually of old age. “elite controllers.” AIDS has killed 30 million peo- Then began the drive to treat the disease and “We do have drugs that seem to wake up the ple. An estimated 34 million people are infected BEIJING: Chinese former vice health minister Huang Jiefu, right, speaks during a halt its spread. “The discovery of HIV in 1983 and virus but these are only the first steps in ulti- with HIV worldwide, and about 1.8 million die press conference on the China’s human organ transplant system at the Health the proof that it was the cause of AIDS in 1984 mately clearing it out completely,” said Lewin. every year. A year after the Montagnier team’s Ministry office in Beijing Friday. — AP were the first major scientific breakthroughs that Two other small studies using antiretrovirals historic publication in Science on May 20, 1983, provided a specific target for blood-screening at a very early stage of infection, before viral lev- a team led by Robert Gallo of the United States tests and opened the doorway to the develop- els build up, have excited hopes of a “functional published similar findings-triggering an acrimo- Cultural attitudes impede ment of antiretroviral medications,” said Anthony cure.” One involved a baby in Mississippi, appar- nious debate with research funding and prestige Fauci, director of the US National Institute of ently cleared of the virus after being given at stake. organ donations in China Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). aggressive antiretroviral treatment within 30 It turned out that Gallo had worked on a viral Introduced in 1996, after many years of fran- hours of birth. “It is certainly a very exciting find- sample originally sent to him by Montagnier. BEIJING: China is phasing out its reliance safeguards were often ignored in the case tic drug research, antiretrovirals are saving the ing, but this is only a single case and additional Credit for isolating HIV thus went to the French on executed prisoners for donated organs, of obtaining organs from prisoners who lives of millions of people infected with HIV and studies are needed to determine whether the team, but Gallo was recognized for determining but an architect of the country’s transplant may have been pressured to donate. helping to contain the virus’ spread, Fauci said in circumstances of this particular case can be that the virus caused AIDS, something the system said Friday that ingrained cultural The use of prisoners’ organs was also an email. By suppressing viral levels, antiretrovi- replicated among other HIV-exposed children,” Montagnier study was not clear on. — AFP attitudes are impeding the rise of donations seen as causing an artificial shortfall in the rals can prevent HIV being transmitted by preg- among the general population. number of organs available by impeding nant women to their unborn children, and by Almost all donated organs in China used the promotion of donating among the pub- infected people to their sexual partners. to come from executed prisoners. A grow- lic as a whole. But there have also been setbacks, particular- ing proportion now come from ordinary China suffers from an acute shortage of ly in the quest for a vaccine. people, but the government is seeking to available organs and Huang said only about Only last month, US authorities halted the lat- eliminate prisoner donations altogether. 10,000 of the 300,000 Chinese suffering est clinical trial-launched in 2009 — after the However, former vice health minister from liver disease will be able to receive prototype formula failed to prevent infection. Huang Jiefu said Friday that there was little transplants. He hopes to raise that number Finding antibodies that are able to identify the hope of changing a requirement that family to 100,000 over time. Another 1 million slippery, mutating virus has proven to be almost members give consent before organs are people suffer from kidney ailments, but as hard as the proverbial search for a needle in a donated, even if a person had expressed a many can be sustained for lengthy periods haystack. desire to donate. on dialysis machines. “Vaccine research continues to suffer from “China is a Confucian society. It’s strongly China considers the number of annual setbacks-but pursue a vaccine we must if we are hierarchical and the family’s concerns usual- executions a secret, but most observers to truly see the end of AIDS,” said Adeeba ly trump those of the individual,” said estimate the number at 6,000-8,000. It isn’t Kamarulzaman, a professor of infectious dis- Huang, presently a leader of the national known what proportion of those executed eases at the University of Malaya, who will co- legislature’s top advisory body. An objec- agree to donate their organs. chair a global conference on AIDS science in tion from even one family member can However, 5,009 liver and kidney trans- Kuala Lumpur in June. block a donation, he said. plants performed last year used organs Counter-intuitively, the main hope nowadays Chinese have traditionally held that a from executed prisoners, out of a total of seems to rest on a cure. Three years ago, person’s body should be interred intact, and 7,882 such operations, according to the Francoise Barre-Sinoussi-a 2008 Nobel co-recipi- while such attitudes are gradually changing, Health Ministry. By contrast, 2,960 of 2,997 ent with Montagnier-mapped a strategy for they remain strong among older Chinese. liver transplants performed in 2005 used attacking HIV’s “reservoir.” At the same time, China is cutting down on organs from executed prisoners. Huang reit- This is the cellular bolthole where the virus its reliance on executed prisoners for organs erated a projection that reliance on prison- lurks after being pounded with antiretrovirals. - a practice that Huang called “profit-driven, ers will be eliminated within about two Once the drugs are stopped, the virus re- unethical and violating human rights.” years of the launch of the nationwide donor emerges and spreads once more through the PARIS, France: Activists of Act Up gay organisation stand by a “Wall of homophobs” displaying Critics have long claimed that standard network in February. — AP bloodstream. “The great challenge will be to ful- portraits of national and international public personnalities on May 17, 2013 in Paris, as part ly understand where the virus hides, how it man- of the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. Words on the wall read “AIDS. ages to stay hidden so effectively and how to Homophobia kills”. —AFP New case of SARS-like virus in Saudi Arabia US health reforms penalize some Indians SAN FRANCISCO: When Liz can document their membership in encourage a robust dialogue with these people covered for care under RIYADH: A new case of the deadly coro- ed the deadly coronavirus from patients- DeRouen needs any kind of health one of about 560 tribes recognized American Indian and Alaska Native Medicaid, but there is still so much navirus has been detected in Saudi the first evidence of transmission in a care services, from diabetes coun- by the US Bureau of Indian Affairs. communities about this matter, and confusion in the pamphlets and Arabia where 15 people have already hospital setting. seling to a dental cleaning, she Yet more than 100 tribes nation- welcome their input and ideas for videos about who is Indian (that) it died after contracting it, the health min- “This is the first time health care checks into a government-funded wide are recognized only by states solutions,” Shields said in a state- makes it hard to give advice.” istry announced yesterday on its workers have been diagnosed with nCoV clinic in Northern California’s wine and not the federal government. ment to The Associated Press. Several members of the main tribal Internet website. (novel coronavirus) infection after expo- country that covers all her medical Many tribes do not allow their “Under the law, it would require a advisory group to the Centers for “One new case of novel coronavirus sure to patients,” the WHO said in a state- needs. Her care and the medical members to enroll before they are legislative rather than regulatory Medicare and Medicaid Services recorded in the Eastern Region” where ment. services for her children and grand- 18, meaning some school-age chil- change to address this matter. And said in a recent conference call with most of the kingdom’s cases have been Since last September, the WHO says it children are paid for as part of the dren whose parents are American as we consider approaches to the the agency that the definition con- registered, said the ministry, which this has been informed of a global total of 40 government’s treaty obligations to Indian might not be considered best possible solution, we are eager tained in the Affordable Care Act week created a special web page dedi- laboratory confirmed cases of the virus, American Indian tribes dating back “Indian” under the definition in the to work with Congress.” raises concerns that the US could cated to the outbreak. “One case of coro- including 20 deaths. While the virus has nearly a century. But under act. The IRS is working with the defi- renege on its obligation to provide navirus has been recorded in the Eastern been deadliest in Saudi Arabia, cases President Barack Obama’s health Other tribal governments have nition but has not yet decided how all people of Indian ancestry with Region, and he is now under the medical have also been reported in Jordan, care overhaul, DeRouen and tens of complicated blood-quantum the agency will verify who qualifies free health care. Budget cuts healthcare receiving the proper treat- Qatar, Germany, Britain and France, thousands of others who identify as requirements or rules that all mem- as Indian or assess the penalty on already are set to reduce basic fed- ment,” the web page in English reported. where two patients are now in hospital Native American will face a new bers must live on the reservation, tax returns, agency spokesman Eric eral health programs for Indians by The latest case takes to 31 the num- in the northern city of Lille. The virus is a reality. They will have to buy their even though nearly two-thirds of Smith said. The IRS and U.S. Treasury up to 8 percent. ber of officially recorded cases of the cousin of Severe Acute Respiratory own health insurance policies or American Indians and Alaska have scheduled a May 29 public Some tribal elders who favor virus in the oil-rich Gulf kingdom since Syndrome (SARS), which triggered a pay a $695 fine from the Internal Natives now live in metropolitan hearing on their proposed rules tighter restrictions on who gets to September. Fifteen of those have died. scare 10 years ago when it erupted in Revenue Service unless they can areas, partly a legacy of federal relo- establishing who qualifies for an identify as Native American see it On Wednesday, the Geneva-based east Asia, leaping to humans from ani- prove that they are “Indian enough” cation and adoption programs. exemption from the insurance cov- another way. Mychal Eaglefeathers, World Health Organization reported that mal hosts and eventually killing some to claim one of the few exemptions The definition of Indian in the erage requirement. a 34-year-old member of the two Saudi health workers have contract- 800 people. — AFP allowed under the Affordable Care Affordable Care Act is roiling emo- Republican Rep. Tom Cole, a Northern Cheyenne Nation in Act’s mandate that all Americans tions on reservations and in native member of the Chickasaw Nation in southeastern Montana, said several carry insurance. enclaves across the country, but US Oklahoma and one of just two fed- elders he spoke with believe that “I’m no less Indian than I was yes- Department of Health and Human eral legislators who are members of allowing only members of federally terday, and just because the defini- Services spokeswoman Erin Shields a federally recognized tribe, said he recognized tribes to avoid the indi- New Xbox more than tion of who is Indian got changed in said the agency is powerless to was aware of the concerns and vidual insurance mandate was a the law doesn’t mean that it’s fair for change it without an act of would ensure that care for native positive step, especially as the people to be penalized,” said Congress. The problem is so new people was not compromised as already strapped Indian Health a game console DeRouen, a former tribal adminis- that the federal government is still the health overhaul rolls out. He Service clinics are forced to slash trator for the Dry Creek Rancheria seeking to establish how many peo- declined to comment about services. “Especially the elders I’ve SAN FRANCISCO/SEATTLE: Microsoft works, is gaining ground fast. Console Band of Pomo Indians who lost her ple might be affected, although whether he would sponsor a bill to talked to say as long as you’re rec- Corp is set to make a splash this week sales have been in decline for the last membership amid a leadership dis- Indian health advocacy groups esti- address the issue. ognized, fine. But if you’re not feder- with the eagerly awaited unveiling of its four years, chiefly because of aging pute in 2009. “If I suddenly have to mate it could be up to 480,000. “This could lead to some tribal ally recognized, people shouldn’t new Xbox game console, eight years devices, but the first of the new genera- pay for my own health insurance to In California alone, about 21,000 citizens being required to purchase get nothing,” he said. after the last version, as it seeks a larger tion of machines has not reignited the avoid the fine, I won’t be able to people who currently receive free insurance or face penalties even Valerie Davidson, a senior direc- share of the $65 billion a year global sector. Nintendo’s Wii U, launched in afford it.” health care through Indian clinics though they are covered by IHS,” he tor at the Anchorage-based Alaska computer gaming industry. November, had sold only 3.45 million The Affordable Care Act takes a are not recognized as Native said in a statement to The Native Tribal Health Consortium, But the small device faces some big units through the end of March, well narrow view of who is considered American by the federal govern- Associated Press, referring to the estimates that about one-third of competition from the PlayStation 4 by below the company’s initial forecast of American Indian and can avoid the ment and would have to pay the federal Indian Health Service. “I am the 140,000 Alaska Native popula- Sony Corp and the Wii U by Nintendo Co 5.5 million. Hopes for Sony’s PS4, teased tax penalty, which will reach a mini- penalty, according to the nonprofit watching the situation closely to tion would have to pay the health Ltd in a shifting market.Gamers are gravi- in March, are low key. “The next wave mum of $695 when fully phased in. California Rural Indian Health Board. ensure that those individuals care penalty. That includes her tating to online play - suggesting the crest isn’t as high as the previous one,” It limits the definition to those who “We have and will continue to already benefiting from care nieces and nephews from the large- ly Yup’ik Eskimo region, comprised hey-day of console games are over - said Lewis Ward, research manager at through IHS continue to receive it.” of tiny villages only accessible by while Microsoft wants its sleek new toy International Data Corp, who calculates The 2010 Census found that plane or boat. to finally cross the bridge to the main- that about 250 million Xbox 360, Sony nearly one-third of the 6.2 million She raises the possibility that stream and become the family’s enter- PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii units people who self-identify as native people would have to get tainment center. were sold between 2005 and 2012. American Indian or Alaska Native lack health insurance and that 28 extra documentation to prove they “Core gamers are very hungry for a “I do think that consoles as a product qualify. People have historically new machine but the difference between category have peaked and the next gen percent live in poverty. The Indian Health Service, a divi- been able to use their federal tribal 2005 and now is that the stakes are so devices won’t match those totals,” he blood-quantum cards to get IHS much higher,” said Ryan McCaffrey, exec- said. sion of US Health and Human Services, oversees a network of clin- health services, but that alone is no utive editor at entertainment website The Xbox itself is not a key financial longer enough to qualify for the tax IGN.com, harking back to Microsoft’s last factor for the world’s largest software ics that are required to serve all patients of Indian ancestry, even if exemption under the Affordable Xbox release. “The entire Xbox experi- maker. Its Entertainment & Devices unit is they cannot document their federal Care Act, she said. ment from Microsoft was for it to be the set to break $10 billion in sales for the tribal status. In addition, many Alaska Natives center piece of your living room.” first time this year, but that’s half the One of those is the clinic in Santa who were born after December To that end, industry-watchers are sales of its Windows unit, and a lot less Rosa, north of San Francisco, where 1971 are prohibited from enrolling expecting a raft of improvements from profitable, averaging less than 15 percent DeRouen, 49, has been seen since in their families’ tribal corporations, the new Xbox, when Microsoft unveils it margin compared to 60 percent or high- she was a little girl. Molin Malicay, even if all four grandparents are at its Redmond, Washington, headquar- er for Windows or Office. who directs the Sonoma County Alaska Native, she added. ters on Tuesday, from closer integration The company has more than 46 mil- Indian Health Project, estimates “Are America’s first people really with the TV and link-ups with mobile lion members who subscribe to its online DeRouen is among roughly 2,000 of being forced yet again to prove our devices to access to new and even exclu- gaming and digital entertainment serv- his patients who would face the Indian-ness?” she said through tears sive content. ice Xbox Live, but that’s still a fraction of penalty. “In the clinics in Central and on a recent conference call with Console gaming still takes the lion’s the people who pay for its software. FORT PIERCE: A bulldozer is used to push sand from a discharge pipe Northern California, we see many of federal agencies. “Every single day share of a growing gaming market - However, the Xbox is still a key into place during a federally funded shore protection project by Great us Indians who are not considered in our own communities we have to about 42 percent of the $65 billion world weapon in Microsoft’s strategic battle Lakes Dredge and Dock on Friday in Fort Pierce, Florida. As cities along Indians in the eyes of the federal fight to demonstrate that we are market, according to Microsoft. But play- with Google Inc, Apple Inc, Amazon.com the East Coast prepare for the start of the hurricane season, officials government because the govern- still here, that we do still exist. We ing games on smartphones and tablets, Inc and others for a central place in con- say the area encompassing Fort Pierce beach has been in dire need of ment itself terminated their tribes,” should be believed that what your or as an offshoot to online social net- sumers’ lives. — Reuters repair since Hurricane Sandy last year made worse an area already suf- Malicay said. parents and grandparents say you fering significantly from erosion. — AFP “We’re trying to get some of are, you are.” — AP SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 HEALTH & SCIENCE NASA: New pump resolves big space station leak

CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida: An impromptu spacewalk over the weekend seems to have fixed a big ammonia leak at the International Rising consumer demands Space Station, NASA said. The “gusher” erupted a week ago, prompting aids organic industry sway the hastiest repair job ever by residents of the WASHINGTON: The organic food indus- Rep. Austin Scott, R-Ga. He was referring orbiting lab. Spacewalking astronauts replaced a try is gaining influence on Capitol Hill, to some organic companies’ efforts to suspect ammonia pump on Saturday, just two prompted by its entry into traditional reduce the number of genetically modi- days after the trouble arose. NASA is now calling farm states and by increasing consumer fied crops in the marketplace. the old, removed pump “Mr Leaky,” said flight demand. That’s not going over well with At the same time, Scott acknowledged controller Anthony Vareha. “Right now, we’re everyone in Congress. Tensions between that he and his wife buy organic foods. feeling pretty good. We definitely got the big conventional and organic agriculture Growing consumer interest in organics leak,” Vareha said in a NASA broadcast from boiled over this week during a late- has proved tough for some Republicans Mission Control in Houston. night House Agriculture Committee on the committee to ignore. Eight Vareha said engineers don’t know whether debate on farm legislation that for Republicans, most of them newer mem- the pump replacement also took care of a small- decades has propped up traditional crops bers of the committee, joined with all of er leak that has plagued the system for years. It and largely ignored organics. When Rep the committee’s Democrats in supporting will take at least a couple months of monitoring Kurt Schrader, a former organic farmer, the amendment, which was adopted 29- to know the full status. offered an amendment to make it easier 17. Rep. Vicky Hartzler, a Missouri Ammonia is used as a coolant in the space for organic companies to organize indus- Republican who owns a farm equipment station’s radiator system. The leak forced one of NASA’s US astronaut Karen Nyberg is seen inside of the space capsule as she takes part in pre- try-wide promotional campaigns, there business and a corn and soybean farm, the station’s seven power channels to go offline. was swift backlash from some farm-state said she supported the amendment not NASA hopes to resume normal operations early flight training at the Russian-leased Baikonur cosmodrome on Friday. NASA’s US astronaut Karen Nyberg, Russian cosmonaut Fyodor Yurchikhin and European Space Agency (ESA) Republicans. only because helping organics is good for next week, following computer software One lawmaker said he didn’t want to agriculture but because many of her con- updates. One of the spacewalkers, NASA astro- Italian astronaut Luca Parmitano are scheduled to blast off to the International Space Station (ISS) from Kazakhstan’s Baikonur cosmodrome on May 29. — AFP see the industry get a free ride and a sec- stituents eat organic foods. “Organics are naut Thomas Marshburn, is now back on Earth. ond complained about organics’ “contin- a niche market in agriculture with a grow- He returned this week aboard a Russian Soyuz Trek movie, “Star Trek into Darkness.” The film ing and offered a stellar review. “I was riveted as ued assault on agriculture.” “That’s one of ing market share, so it makes sense for capsule, ending a five-month mission. The other was beamed up to the space station a few days you’re racing through the woods and jumping the things that has caught me and raises me to allow farmers to invest some of spacewalker, Christopher Cassidy, a recent before its US opening in theaters Thursday. off cliffs,” he told the actors. “I won’t spoil the rest my concerns, is that industry’s lack of their own funds to promote their prod- arrival, spent Thursday chatting with three of the Cassidy watched the first half-hour of the of the movie for anybody who hasn’t seen it. But respect for traditional agriculture,” said ucts,” she said. —AP actors and a writer-producer of the newest Star movie while he was exercising Thursday morn- pretty cool scenes.” —AP WHAT’S ON SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 Indonesia holds table-top SEND US YOUR event to promote tourism INSTAGRAM PICS

hat’s more fun than clicking a beauti- ful picture? Sharing it with others! Let Wother people see the way you see Kuwait - through your lens. Friday Times will feature snapshots of Kuwait through Instagram feeds. If you want to share your Instagram pho- tos, email us at [email protected]

Announcements

AIP shaam-e ghazal he Association of Indian Professionals (AIP), Kuwait, forthcoming event has been T scheduled for the evening of May 25, 2013 at 6 pm at the auditorium of Indian Community Senior School, Salmiya and is titled as AIP Shaam-e-Ghazal. We have invited Raghuram Krishnan, a Ghazal singer from Cochin, India to make this evening more melodious and vibrant. He will be supported by few local musicians By Sajeev K Peter also. Ambassador of India, Satish C. Mehta will be the Chief Guest. Admission is by invitation ndonesian Embassy, Kuwait in col- and children below 10 years of age will not be laboration with the Indonesian min- allowed. Iistry of Tourism and Creative Economy hosted a table-top event at J The TIES Center’s ‘trip’ W Marriott Hotel on the occasion the he TIES Center cordially invites those who country’s participation in Kuwait Travel are interested in its trip to the Historical, Mart. Indonesian Ambassador Ferry T Vintage and Classic Car Museum, which is Adamhar addressed the tourism offi- the first museum in Kuwait specializing in old cials from Indonesia, ambassadors from cars on May 30th at 6:00 pm. Revisit past mem- ories or learn something new. If you love cars foreign missions in Kuwait, travel then this is the trip for you. Even if you don’t agency officials and other guests. love cars, come anyway; you will enjoy the trip. Fikdanel Thaufik, Garuda Indonesia For more information/registration, log onto: General Manager, Saudi Arabia and www.tiescenter.net. Middle East, spoke on the occasion. Representatives from four Indonesian Photography exhibition travel companies attended the ses- he Embassy of India, Kuwait in association sions. Over 38 Kuwait travel companies with National Council of Arts, Culture & joined the event and exchanged views T Letters is organizing an exhibition of pho- with the Indonesia travel companies. Airways and outlined its plan to buy 10 The grand prizes were round-trip tional dancers from Indra Group dance- tographs of Islamic monuments of India by A video was shown on the occasion of the newest Boeing 777-300ER air- tickets from Abu Dhabi-Jakarta-Bali on Nandak Ganjen dance from Betawi, Benoy K Behl, Art - Historian & Photographer at demonstrating Indonesia’s rich tourism craft to strengthen its armada. Garuda Indonesia. Many more sou- Jakarta, a dance about a group of Al-Edwani Hall, Dahiyat Abdullah Al-Salem. The potential in Bali and East Nusa A raffle draw was held and two venirs were given away by the Ministry young ladies - performed to the delight exhibition is being inaugurated at 1900 hrs on Tenggara (Komodo Island). Another grand prizes were given away to two of Tourism, Indonesia to the guests. To of the guests. 21 May, 2013. The exhibition shall be kept video that profiled Garuda Indonesia from Kuwaiti companies. add more festivities to the event, tradi- —Photos by Joseph Shagra open till 27 May 2013 from 0900 hrs to 1230 hrs and 1700 hrs to 2100 hrs. All are cordially invit- ed to the exhibition. My Experience in Kuwait he Aware Diwaniya on Tuesday, May 21 will be given by two German Expats, Jan Koeppen and TDetmar Ruediger. They will talk about their experience in Kuwait as well as intercultural aspects including sharing their tips and advice on spending leisure time in Kuwait. Please join us at 7 pm at Aware Center, Villa 84, Street 50, Block 3, Surra. For more information please call 25335280 or visit www.aware.com.kw IMAX

IMAX film program

SUNDAY Kuwait fire department holds open day ** 9:30am Showtime Available for Groups By Hanan Al-Saadoun Tornado Alley 3D10:30am, 6:30pm, 9:30pm To The Arctic 3D 11:30am, 8:30pm KUWAIT: Under the patronage of Fire Flight of Butterflies 3D 12:30pm, 5:30pm Department Director Lt. General Yousuf Al- Born to be Wild 3D 7:30pm Ansari the marine fire had its open day under the slogan “your safety...by wearing it” at Marine Fire Center in Ras Al-Ardh to educate citizens and expat about their diving safety this summer season. Fire center director Colonel Taraq Al-Sabti said the Marine Fire Dept. is getting ready for the summer season, due to the increasing number of those who go fishing and leisure trips in the sea and the dangers which they might face if they ignore safety equipments like fire extinguishers, safety jackets, and to be sure of the safety and readiness of their boats and be sure of the weather before getting into the sea. NBK welcomes students from Abdullateef Al Dayeen School

ational Bank of Kuwait (NBK) hosted a group of students from Abdullateef Al Dayeen Primary NSchool. The students toured the bank’s head office to learn firsthand about the banking industry and the day-to-day work environment at the bank various departments. NBK Public Relations team received the visiting Dr Nuna Goel presents trophy to the winners at the group of students and treated them to a familiarization British School of Kuwait, Salwa, during the basket- tour of the various departments, including the main ball championship for boys and girls organized by banking hall. Students showed great interest with the Indian Youth Society, Friday, May 17, 2013. broad-spectrum of NBK financial and banking products and services and were particularly inquisitive about the multi-benefit Al -Azraq and Al-Shabab Al-Watani accounts, exclusively designed for high schools, col- leagues and university students. Write to us Commenting on the conclusion of the visit, the stu- dents expressed their sincere thanks for NBK and the opportunity they have been given to gain a better Send to What’s On understanding of the banking job and get a personal insight about NBK and the career field in general. upcoming events, birthdays or Organizing frequent visits for students and providing celebrations by email: regular support for educational institutions in Kuwait has always been a major component of NBK’s social [email protected] responsibility and strong commitment towards the Fax: 24835619 / 20 greater community in general and the young genera- tion in particular. WHAT’S ON SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 Embassy Sebamed on Information

EMBASSY OF AUSTRALIA Instagram 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: info.aus- [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 informa- tion. Kuwait citizens can apply for tourist visas on-line at www.immi.gov.au/e visa/e676.htm. Fabio Canavaro, Captain of the Italian World Cup winning team met players and n n n n n n n officials from the Premier Goal Academy in association with Everton F.C. at Go EMBASSY OF CANADA Sport in Kuwait. Go Sport are sponsoring all the matches and training footballers e are glad to inform you that we launched our site on instagram. Follow us on @sebamedkuwait and (hashtag)#sebamedkuwait and The Embassy of Canada in Kuwait does along with the latest coaching equipment at P.G.A. Everton, supporting Kuwait’s not have a visa or immigration depart- No.1 Community Football Coaching Program, under the patronage of the British Wsend us your shots involving all family members and be the lucky winner of a valuable prize from Sebamed products. ment. All processing of visa and immi- Ambassador, Frank Baker. The P.G.A. summer program will commence Friday 24th gration matters including enquiries is conduct- May at Bayan, running six nights a week from 5.30-8.30pm until July 3rd. ed by the Canadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Individuals who are interested in working, studying, visiting or immigrating to Canada Your destination in Abu Halifa should contact the Canadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, website: www.UAE.gc.ca or www.going- tocanada.gc.ca, E-mail: abdbi-im- [email protected]. The Embassy of for tastiest Italian cuisine Canada is located at Villa 24, Al-Mutawakei St, Block 4 in Da’aiyah. Please visit our website at riomilane, as reflected in its name, offers you www.Kuwait.gc.ca. The Embassy of Canada is Italian dining at its finest. With its distinct open from 07:30 to 15:30 Sunday through OEuropean decor, its relaxed Mediterranean Thursday. The reception is open from 07:30 to ambience and scrumptious fusion dishes that blend 12:30. Consular services for Canadian citizens the best of Roman, Sicilian, Greek flavours, with an are provided from 09:00 until 12:00, Sunday emphasis on the tastes of the Gulf, the restaurant through Wednesday. delivers an exquisite dining experience. n n n n n n n Styled uniquely on European lines by a specially appointed Russian designer, the interior of Oriomilane EMBASSY OF CYPRUS is refreshingly distinct. The ambience reflects a gen- In its capacity as EU Local Presidency in uine Italian ristorante - sophisticated, trendy and the State of Kuwait, the Embassy of the vibrant, while at the same time retaining a relaxed, Republic of Cyprus, on behalf of the informal and laid-back atmosphere that attracts cus- Member States of the EU and associated tomers of all ages and from all walks of life. States participating in the Schengen cooper- Oriomilane promises you a journey into the heart of ation, would like to announce that as from Milan that will entice your senses and refresh you with main risotto dish to give it a lovely golden yellow pride for us. 2nd October 2012 all Schengen States’ its relaxing and comforting surroundings. The restau- colour that became an immediate sensation and set Oriomilane is located in Abu Halifa, at the iconic Consulates in Kuwait will use the Visa rant’s eclectic fusion fare is rooted in its ethnic ingredi- the tradition of ‘risottgiald’, which forever became Dome Mall that features a distinctive architectural style Information System (VIS). The VIS is a central ents and unusual combinations that emphasize linked to this magnificent city. Prior to using saffron, and a unique central dome canopy. The Dome Mall, database for the exchange of data on short- flavours and subtlety. The ingredients are sourced the most common seasoning for risotto was butter, with its high-end shopping arcades, bowling rings, stay (up to three months) visas between directly from Italy and carefully crafted by the profes- with gold leaf used as a decoration. In continuation of electronic games and an eclectic selection of classy Schengen States. The main objectives of the sional and innovative chefs at Oriomilane into dishes this 400 year old tradition, at Oriomilane, you will find restaurants and cafes, is the latest gathering spot for VIS are to facilitate visa application proce- that reproduce the genuine flavours and tastes of Italy, the delectable saffron featured in many of our signa- families and friends in Kuwait. Also situated adjacent to dures and checks at external border as well expertly tailored to cater to discerning local palates. ture dishes. Kuwait Magic, another landmark in the area, as to enhance security. The VIS will contain all Dishes like panettone and saffron risotto are consid- The perfectionist approach of our chefs in doing Oriomilane is easily accessible from Fahaheel and its the Schengen visa applications lodged by an ered a culinary symbol of Milan and saffron risotto has their work is nothing less than a testimony of their soul suburbs, as well as from Kuwait City along the Coast applicant over five years and the decisions special significance to the city. Legend has it that, in and adds a flavour to our dishes, which instantly Road. The restaurant has easy access and ample car taken by any Schengen State’s consulate. This 1574, the young assistant of Master Valerio of Flanders touches your heart, and relishes your soul. parking space. will allow applicants to establish more easily was so passionate about saffron that he used it in The restaurant blends warm and welcoming dÈcor, Come join us for an excursion to Italy that you have the lawful use of previous visas and their every dye to add beauty effects to the cathedral his unrivalled service, and, a finesse and balance of varied always longed for, while relishing our signature Italian bona fide status. For the purpose of the VIS, master was building. At Valerio’s daughter’s wedding, ingredients to produce dishes of unmatched quality, fusion dishes that are not only immensely flavourful applicants will be required to provide their the assistant coaxed the chef to add saffron to the serving all of this with a hospitality that is a matter of but also brilliantly creative. biometric data (fingerprints and digital pho- tos) when applying for a Schengen visa. It is a simple and discreet procedure that only takes a few minutes. Biometric data, along with the AUK Cooperation Club organizes Umrah trip data provided in the Schengen visa applica- tion form, will be recorded in the VIS central database. Therefore, as from 2nd October 2012, first-time applicants will have to appear in person when lodging the application, in order to provide their fingerprints. For subse- quent applications within 5 years the finger- prints can be copied from the previous appli- cation file in the VIS. The Cypriot Presidency would like to assure the people of Kuwait and all its permanent citizens that the Member States and associated States participating in the Schengen cooperation, have taken all necessary technical measures to facilitate the rapid examination and the efficient process- ing of visa applications and to ensure a quick and discreet procedure for the implementa- tion of the new VIS.

n n n n n n n EMBASSY OF SOUTH AFRICA The Embassy of the Republic of South Africa will be closed on Tuesday, 28 May 2013, for an official event. The Embassy will resume it’s normal working hours on Wednesday, he Cooperation Club at the Dr. Mansour spoke to the students to invest time and energy in worthy conduct, and morals. 29 May 2013, from Sunday to Thursday. Please American University of Kuwait about the need for such spiritual trips causes, as well as a competition to learn The Cooperation Club is an inde- note that the Working hours will be from 8h00 to Tstarted its activities this semester that would charge them with internal Surat “Luqman” (the 31st chapter of the pendent, missionary student organiza- 16h00 & the Consular Section operation hours will with a trip to Mecca Al-Mukarramah, energy. He also praised the Cooperation Holy Quran). The Umrah trip partici- tion that aims to raise awareness of be from 8h30 to 12h30, for any emergencies supported and sponsored by Ar- Club for its active role in conducting pants enjoyed the trip and commended Islamic principles, morals, acts of wor- please contact: 94924895. Rawafid Estate Company. The students activities within the moral and noble its management and success. This trip is ship and values among the students of were accompanied by AUK Associate values of Islam. considered the beginning of a series of the American University of Kuwait n n n n n n n Professor of Management, Dr Aly Amongst the activities conducted activities that the Cooperation Club is through creative projects and pro- Mansour, and AUK Safety and Security during the Umrah trip was the distribu- planning to organize in the future, in grams, as well as, cultural and social EMBASSY GREECE Coordinator, Nawaf Al-Banai. tion of meals to the needy, spiritual les- line with the Club’s mission to define activities. The Embassy of Greece in Kuwait has the In the orientation preceding the trip, sons promoting devotion and the need Islam in terms of creed, acts of worship, 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- New and exclusive gymnasium brings Qibla area, Kuwait City, (Parking at Souk Watia). For information please call 22281046 from 08:30 to 17:00 (Sunday to Thursday). Working hours: more benefits to guests at The Regency Submission from 08:30 to 15:30. Passport collec- tion from 16:00 to 17:00. For visa applications oday more and more business executives see the ble washrooms with luxurious amenities. The sweep- please visit the following website need to incorporate health and fitness into their ing reception desk with its golden marble backdrop www.mfa.gr/kuwait. Tbusy travel schedules. Recent industry reports will form the impressive entry, pastel walls, tall mirrors have highlighted how hotel guests now prioritize and spotlights will enhance the guests’ work out expe- n n n n n n n hotels with superior fitness facilities. With this in mind rience. The Regency is delighted to announce the opening of General Manager, Mr. Aurelio Giraudo spoke of his EMBASSY OF SOUTH KOREA a new and expanded gymnasium to provide its in- pride in creating yet another high-end facility for The The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in house guests with more opportunities to stay healthy. Regency’s esteemed guests: “We recognize our in- Kuwait will organize 2013 K-POP Contest on Located on the top floor of the five-storey hotel this house guests require top-of-the-line exercise facilities Thursday, June 6, 2013 at 6:00 pm. The aim of the contest is to provide an opportunity to the beautifully designed 200 square metre facility will fea- and we are therefore delighted to provide them with a participants to showcase their exciting talents to the ture a range of the latest equipment by Precor so brand new and expanded gymnasium, exclusively for audience. Everyone is encouraged to participate in whether a guest is looking to improve his or her car- their use. To retain exclusivity memberships will not be the contest. Application forms can be downloaded dio-vascular performance, burn calories or tone mus- extended to outside guests. This is just one a number from the Embassy’s website: http://kwt.mofa.go.kr cles there will be plenty of choice, not forgetting free of enhancements we shall be seeing over the next (Select English from the menu at the top of the weights for those who seek to perfect the body beauti- months designed to offer our guests an all-round, page then Bilateral Relations) or visit the “Korean ful. international five-star experience”. Culture Diwaniya” Facebook Group. Interested appli- Open 24 hours a day, the facility will be segregated The Regency gym will be overseen by qualified cants must send their application forms to to allow men and women complete privacy while male and female personal trainers to ensure optimum [email protected] by 24 May 2013. working out. Each section is flanked by adjoining mar- benefit and personal safety. TV PROGRAMS SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013

03:30 Asia Business Report 18:05 The Garfield Show 17:00 International Desk 03:45 Sport Today 18:30 Sylvester & Tweety Mysteries 18:00 Global Exchange 04:00 BBC World News 18:55 The 13 Ghosts Of Scooby-Doo 18:45 CNN Marketplace Middle East 04:30 Asia Business Report 19:20 Tom And Jerry Tales 19:00 CNN Football Club 00:45 Your Worst Animal 04:45 Sport Today 19:45 What’s New Scooby Doo 19:30 Open Court 00:00 Scouted Nightmares 05:00 BBC World News 20:10 Tiny Toon Adventures 20:00 International Desk 00:55 Style Star 01:35 I’m Alive 05:30 Asia Business Report 20:35 Puppy In My Pocket 21:00 Quest Means Business 01:25 THS 02:25 Safari Vet School 05:45 Sport Today 21:00 What’s New Scooby-Doo? 21:45 CNN Marketplace Europe 02:20 THS 02:50 Safari Vet School 06:00 BBC World News 21:25 Looney Tunes 22:00 Amanpour 03:15 Style Star 03:15 Wildest Africa 06:30 Hardtalk 21:50 Dexter’s Laboratory 22:30 CNN Newscenter 03:40 Extreme Close-Up 04:05 Galapagos 07:00 BBC World News 22:15 Tom & Jerry Tales 23:00 Connect The World With 04:10 THS 04:55 Shamwari: A Wild Life 07:30 World Business Report 23:05 Pink Panther And Pals Becky Anderson 05:05 E!es 05:20 Cheetah Kingdom 07:45 BBC World News 23:30 Pink Panther And Pals 06:00 THS 05:45 SSPCA: On The Wildside 08:00 BBC World News 23:55 Moomins 07:50 Style Star 06:10 SSPCA: On The Wildside 08:30 World Business Report 08:20 E! News 06:35 Wildlife SOS 08:45 BBC World News 09:15 Ice Loves Coco 09:45 Ice Loves Coco 07:00 The Really Wild Show 09:00 BBC World News 00:15 You Have Been Warned 10:15 THS 07:25 Groomer Has It 09:30 World Business Report 01:10 James May’s Man Lab 12:05 E! News 08:15 Dogs 101 09:45 BBC World News 02:05 Mythbusters 00:30 Grim Adventures Of... 13:05 Chasing The Saturdays 09:10 Weird Creatures With Nick 10:00 BBC World News 03:00 Mythbusters 01:20 Johnny Test 13:35 Chasing The Saturdays Baker 10:30 World Business Report 03:55 Border Security 02:10 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 14:05 Kourtney & Kim Take New 10:05 Safari Vet School 10:45 BBC World News 04:20 Auction Hunters 02:35 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien York 10:30 Safari Vet School 11:00 BBC World News 04:50 Storage Hunters 03:00 The Amazing World Of 15:00 Style Star 11:00 Animal Cops Houston 11:30 Hardtalk 05:15 How Machines Work Gumball 15:30 THS 11:55 Shamwari: A Wild Life 12:00 BBC World News 05:40 How Stuff’s Made 03:25 Regular Show 16:30 Extreme Close-Up 12:20 Wildlife SOS 12:30 World Business Report 06:05 Sons Of Guns 03:50 Ben 10: Omniverse 17:00 Playing With Fire 12:50 Safari Vet School 12:45 Sport Today 07:00 Mythbusters 04:15 Scooby-Doo! Mystery 18:00 E! News 13:15 Safari Vet School 13:00 BBC World News 07:50 Futurecar Incorporated 19:00 THS 13:45 Animal Precinct 13:30 BBC World News 08:45 Gold Rush - Season 3 Specials 04:40 Powerpuff Girls 20:00 Kourtney And Kim Take Miami 14:40 Safari Vet School 14:00 GMT With George Alagiah 09:40 Border Security 05:05 Evil Con Carne 21:00 Chasing The Saturdays 15:05 Safari Vet School 14:30 GMT With George Alagiah 10:05 Auction Hunters 05:30 Cow & Chicken 21:30 Fashion Police 15:30 Cheetah Kingdom 15:00 BBC World News 10:30 Auction Kings 06:00 Casper’s Scare School 22:30 E! News 16:00 The Really Wild Show 15:30 World Business Report 10:55 How Machines Work 06:30 Angelo Rules 23:30 Chelsea Lately 16:30 Dogs 101 15:45 Sport Today 11:25 How It’s Made 07:00 Dreamworks Dragons Riders 17:25 World’s Ugliest Dog 16:00 Impact With Mishal Husain 11:50 You Have Been Warned Of Berk Competition 16:30 Impact With Mishal Husain 12:45 James May’s Man Lab 07:25 Johnny Test 18:20 America’s Cutest... 17:00 Impact With Mishal Husain 13:40 Mythbusters 07:45 Scooby-Doo! Mystery 19:15 Monkey Life 17:30 Hardtalk 14:35 Border Security Incorporated 19:40 Bondi Vet 18:00 Global With John Sopel 15:05 Auction Hunters 00:05 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 08:10 Evil Con Carne 20:10 Shamwari: A Wild Life 18:30 Global With John Sopel 15:30 Auction Kings 00:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 08:55 Adventure Time 20:35 Cheetah Kingdom 19:00 Global With John Sopel 16:00 Fast N’ Loud 00:55 Unwrapped 09:45 Regular Show 21:05 Safari Vet School 19:30 World Business Report 16:55 Gold Rush 01:20 Unwrapped 10:35 Angelo Rules 21:30 Safari Vet School 19:45 Sport Today 17:50 Mythbusters 01:45 Charly’s Cake Angels 11:25 Ben 10: Alien Force 22:00 Biggest And Baddest 20:00 BBC World News 18:45 Sons Of Guns 02:10 Charly’s Cake Angels 11:50 Ben 10: Alien Force 22:55 Untamed China With Nigel 20:30 BBC Focus On Africa 19:40 How Machines Work 02:35 Unique Sweets 12:15 Hero 108 Marven 21:00 World News Today With 20:05 How It’s Made 03:00 Unique Sweets 12:40 Hero 108 23:50 Animal Cops Houston Zeinab Badawi 20:35 Auction Hunters 03:25 Food Wars 13:05 Mucha Lucha ! 21:30 World News Today With 21:00 Storage Hunters 03:50 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 13:30 Angelo Rules Zeinab Badawi 21:30 Heroes Of Hell’s Highway 04:15 Unique Eats 14:20 Evil Con Carne 22:00 World News Today With 22:25 Sons Of Guns 04:40 Chopped 15:10 The Amazing World Of Zeinab Badawi 23:20 Hellriders 05:30 Iron Chef America 00:40 Come Dine With Me Gumball 22:30 World Business Report 06:10 Food Network Challenge 01:30 Masterchef: The Professionals 15:35 Adventure Time 22:45 Sport Today 07:00 Guy’s Big Bite 02:15 Gok’s Fashion Fix 16:00 Regular Show WANDERLUST ON OSN CINEMA 23:00 Business Edition With Tanya 07:25 Guy’s Big Bite 03:05 Coastal Kitchen 16:30 Johnny Test Beckett 07:50 Reza’s African Kitchen 03:30 Cash In The Attic 17:00 Ben 10: Omniverse 06:00 Flower Girl-PG15 23:30 Hardtalk 00:05 How Tech Works 08:15 Kid In A Candy Store 07:00 Emmerdale 04:15 Bargain Hunt 17:25 Dreamworks Dragons Riders 17:15 Bondi Rescue 00:30 Sci-Fi Science 08:40 Unique Sweets 07:30 Coronation Street 08:00 Happy Feet Two-PG 05:00 Holmes On Homes Of Berk 18:10 Danger Beach 01:00 Trek Nation 09:05 Barefoot Contessa - Back To 08:00 C.S.I. New York 10:00 Diary Of A Wimpy Kid: Rodrick 05:45 Gok’s Fashion Fix 17:50 Gormiti New 18:35 The Ride: Alaska To Patagonia 02:45 Stephen Hawking’s Grand Basics 09:00 Bones Rules-PG 06:35 New Scandinavian Cooking 18:15 Young Justice 19:05 Lonely Planet: Roads Less Design 09:30 The Next Food Network Star 10:00 Castle 11:45 Sherlock Holmes: A Game Of 07:00 Baking Mad With Eric Lanlard 18:40 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien Travelled 00:45 Wacky Races 03:35 Bad Universe 10:20 Extra Virgin 11:00 Touch Shadows-PG15 07:25 Food And Drink 19:05 Total Drama Island 20:00 The Frankincense Trail 01:35 Duck Dodgers 04:25 Superships 10:45 Extra Virgin 12:00 Emmerdale 14:00 Every Jack Has A Jill-PG15 07:50 New Scandinavian Cooking 19:30 Total Drama Island 21:00 Graham’s World 02:00 Duck Dodgers 05:15 The Gadget Show 11:10 Cooking For Real 12:30 Coronation Street 16:00 Happy Feet Two-PG 08:15 Homes Under The Hammer 19:55 Mucha Lucha ! 21:30 Market Values 02:25 Dastardly And Muttley 05:40 How Tech Works 11:35 Food Crafters 13:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 18:00 Tower Heist-PG15 09:05 Bargain Hunt 20:20 Ben 10: Omniverse 22:00 Departures 02:50 Dastardly And Muttley 06:05 Prophets Of Science Fiction 12:00 Ultimate Recipe Showdown 14:00 C.S.I. New York 20:00 Toast-PG15 09:50 Antiques Roadshow 20:45 The Amazing World Of 22:55 Graham’s World 03:00 Dexter’s Laboratory 07:00 James May’s 20th Century 12:50 Grill It! With Bobby Flay 15:00 Eureka 22:00 Marley-PG15 10:40 Extreme Makeover: Home Gumball 23:20 David Rocco‚Äôs Dolce Vita 16:00 Emmerdale 03:30 Wacky Races 07:25 James May’s 20th Century 13:15 Barefoot Contessa - Back To Edition 21:10 Adventure Time 16:30 Coronation Street 03:55 Sylvester & Tweety Mysteries 07:50 Curiosity Basics 11:25 Masterchef: The Professionals 21:35 Regular Show 17:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 04:20 Tom & Jerry 08:40 The Gadget Show 13:40 Barefoot Contessa - Back To 00:30 HSBC Sevens World Series 12:10 Come Dine With Me 22:00 Ben 10 18:00 C.S.I. New York 04:45 The Garfield Show 09:05 How Tech Works Basics 00:00 The Ward-18 03:30 Ladies European Tour 13:00 Baking Mad With Eric Lanlard 22:25 Ben 10 19:00 Switched At Birth 05:00 Bananas In Pyjamas 09:30 Da Vinci’s Machines 14:05 Food Wars 02:00 Beneath The Darkness-PG15 04:30 NRL Premiership 13:30 New Scandinavian Cooking 22:50 Mucha Lucha ! 20:00 American Idol 05:25 Gerald McBoing Boing 10:25 What’s That About? 14:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 04:00 Ice Road Terror-PG15 06:30 ICC Cricket 360 13:55 Bargain Hunt 23:15 Mucha Lucha ! 21:00 Suits 05:45 Jelly Jamm 11:20 Superships 14:55 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 06:00 Killer Mountain-PG15 07:00 HSBC Sevens World Series 14:40 Cash In The Attic 23:40 Powerpuff Girls 22:00 The Hollow Crown 06:00 Ha Ha Hairies 12:10 Prophets Of Science Fiction 15:20 Guy’s Big Bite 08:00 True Justice: One Shot, One 10:00 NRL Full Time 15:25 Antiques Roadshow 06:25 Bananas In Pyjamas 13:00 Curiosity 15:45 Chopped Life-PG15 10:30 AFL Premiership Highlights 16:20 Extreme Makeover: Home 06:50 Lazytown 13:50 Sci-Fi Science 16:35 Barefoot Contessa - Back To 10:00 The Presence-PG15 11:30 Trans World Sport Edition 07:15 Krypto: The Super Dog 14:20 The Gadget Show Basics 12:00 The Stool Pigeon-PG15 12:30 ICC Cricket 360 17:00 Homes Under The Hammer 01:15 The Godfather II 07:40 Baby Looney Tunes 14:45 How Tech Works 17:00 Barefoot Contessa - Back To 14:00 True Justice: One Shot, One 13:00 Live Cricket 17:55 Baking Mad With Eric Lanlard 04:15 Alien Resurrection 08:05 Gerald McBoing Boing 15:10 James May’s 20th Century Basics Life-PG15 21:00 ICC Cricket 360 18:20 The Roux Legacy 06:15 Men In Black 08:30 Cartoonito Tales 00:00 Amanpour 15:35 James May’s 20th Century 17:25 Food Wars 16:00 Green Lantern-PG15 21:30 Inside The PGA Tour 18:55 The Hairy Bikers USA 08:00 True Justice: Blood Alley 08:55 Ha Ha Hairies 00:30 World Sport 16:00 Da Vinci’s Machines 17:50 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 18:00 The Stool Pigeon-PG15 22:00 Live PGA Tour 19:20 New Scandinavian Cooking 10:00 Monsters 09:20 Lazytown 01:00 Piers Morgan Live 16:55 What’s That About? 18:15 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 20:00 Amphibious-18 19:45 Come Dine With Me 12:00 Superman vs. The Elite 09:45 Baby Looney Tunes 02:00 CNN Newsroom Live From 17:45 Superships 18:40 Guy’s Big Bite 22:00 AVP: Alien vs Predator-PG15 20:35 Extreme Makeover: Home 13:30 Ip Man 2 10:10 Krypto: The Super Dog Hong Kong 18:35 Meteorite Men 19:05 Reza’s African Kitchen Edition 15:30 Monsters 00:00 Inside The PGA Tour 10:35 Cartoonito Tales 03:00 Anderson Cooper 360 19:30 James May’s 20th Century 19:30 Chopped 21:20 Antiques Roadshow 17:15 X-Men: First Class 00:30 PGA European Tour Weekly 11:00 Jelly Jamm 04:00 Piers Morgan Live 19:55 James May’s 20th Century 20:20 Chopped 22:15 Bargain Hunt 19:45 Ip Man 2 01:00 NRL Full Time 11:25 Gerald McBoing Boing 05:00 Quest Means Business 20:20 Finding Bigfoot 21:10 Amazing Wedding Cakes 01:15 Judy Moody And The Not 23:00 Homes Under The Hammer 21:45 A Dangerous Man 01:30 Futbol Mundial 11:50 Lazytown 06:00 The Situation Room 21:10 The Gadget Show 22:00 Food Network Challenge Bummer Summer-PG 23:55 Cash In The Attic 03:00 The People vs George Lucas- 23:30 The Echo 02:00 Rugby League Challenge Cup 12:15 Baby Looney Tunes 07:00 World Sport 21:35 How Tech Works 22:50 Food Network Caters Your 03:30 AFL Premiership 12:40 Jelly Jamm 07:30 Talk Asia 22:00 James May’s 20th Century Wedding PG15 05:00 Princess Lillifee-FAM 06:00 Trans World Sport 13:00 Tom & Jerry Kids 08:00 World Report 22:25 James May’s 20th Century 23:40 Food Wars 07:00 Futbol Mundial 13:25 A Pup Named Scooby-Doo 09:00 World Report 22:50 Sport Science 07:00 Second Chances-PG15 00:00 Stripes-18 09:00 Judy Moody And The Not 07:30 Rugby League Challenge Cup 13:50 Moomins 10:00 World Sport 23:40 The Gadget Show 02:00 Vampire In Brooklyn-PG15 09:00 Premier League Darts 00:00 BBC World News America 14:20 Sylvester & Tweety Mysteries 10:30 I Report For CNN Bummer Summer-PG 04:00 While You Were Sleeping- 11:00 Espions-PG15 12:30 Futbol Mundial 00:30 BBC World News America 14:45 The Looney Tunes Show 11:00 World Business Today PG15 13:00 Inside The PGA Tour 00:30 Dr G: Medical Examiner 13:00 What’s Wrong With Virginia- 01:00 Newsday 15:10 The 13 Ghosts Of Scooby-Doo 12:00 World One 06:00 12 Dates Of Christmas-PG15 13:30 PGA European Tour Weekly 01:20 A Haunting PG15 01:30 Asia Business Report 15:35 Taz-Mania 12:30 Open Court 08:00 Wild Wild West-PG15 14:00 Live PGA European Tour 02:05 Nightmare Next Door 15:00 A Dog Named Duke-PG15 01:45 Sport Today 16:00 Tiny Toon Adventures 13:00 Amanpour 10:00 3 Holiday Tails-PG 18:00 Trans World Sport 02:55 Nightmare Next Door 17:00 The Artist-PG 02:00 Newsday 16:25 Moomins 13:30 CNN Newscenter 00:00 Hannah Montana 12:00 While You Were Sleeping- 19:00 WWE NXT 03:45 I Almost Got Away With It 19:00 Return-PG15 02:30 Asia Business Report 16:50 Tom And Jerry Tales 14:00 Piers Morgan Live 00:20 Hannah Montana PG15 20:00 UFC Unleached 04:30 Dr G: Medical Examiner 21:00 Wanderlust-R 02:45 Sport Today 17:15 What’s New Scooby Doo 15:00 News Stream 00:45 Brandy & Mr Whiskers 14:00 Bushwhacked-PG 21:00 Live Premier League Darts 03:00 Newsday 17:40 The Looney Tunes Show 16:00 World Business Today 01:05 Brandy & Mr Whiskers 05:20 A Haunting 23:00 Werewolf: The Beast Among 16:00 3 Holiday Tails-PG 01:30 Emperor’s New School 06:10 Nightmare Next Door Us-18 18:00 The Naked Gun: From The 01:50 Emperor’s New School 07:00 Mystery Diagnosis Files Of Police Squad-PG 02:15 Replacements 07:50 Street Patrol 20:00 Grabbers-PG15 00:30 ICC Cricket 360 08:15 Street Patrol 02:35 Replacements 00:30 The Daily Show With Jon 22:00 Stripes-18 01:00 World Pool Masters 08:40 Real Emergency Calls 03:00 Brandy & Mr Whiskers Stewart 02:00 World Cup Of Pool 09:05 Who On Earth Did I Marry? 03:20 Brandy & Mr Whiskers 01:00 The Colbert Report 03:00 Pro 12 09:30 On The Case With Paula Zahn 03:45 Emperor’s New School 01:30 Weeds 05:00 Top 14 Highlights 10:20 Murder Shift 04:05 Emperor’s New School 02:00 It’s Always Sunny In 01:15 The Company Men-PG15 05:30 ICC Cricket 360 11:10 Disappeared 04:30 Replacements Philadelphia 03:00 The Silence Of The Lambs-18 06:00 Trans World Sport 12:00 Mystery Diagnosis 04:50 Replacements 02:30 The Big C 05:00 13-PG15 07:00 Golfing World 12:50 Street Patrol 05:15 Brandy & Mr Whiskers 03:00 Ben And Kate 07:00 Offline-PG15 08:00 Asian Tour Golf Show 13:15 Street Patrol 05:35 Brandy & Mr Whiskers 03:30 The Simpsons 09:00 TT: Closer To The Edge-PG15 08:30 Total Rugby 13:40 Forensic Detectives 06:00 Prankstars 04:00 Seinfeld 10:45 Oscar And Lucinda-PG15 09:00 World Pool Masters 14:30 On The Case With Paula Zahn 06:25 Suite Life On Deck 04:30 The Tonight Show With Jay 13:00 Taken Back: Finding Haley- 10:00 World Cup Of Pool 15:20 Real Emergency Calls 06:45 Cory In The House Leno PG15 11:00 Golfing World 15:45 Who On Earth Did I Marry? 07:10 A.N.T Farm 05:30 Emily’s Reasons Why Not 14:30 TT: Closer To The Edge-PG15 12:00 Pro 12 16:10 Disappeared 07:35 Austin And Ally 06:00 Arrested Development 16:15 Gandhi-PG 14:00 Total Rugby 17:00 Murder Shift 07:55 Jessie 06:30 Samantha Who? 19:30 B-Girl-PG15 14:30 Premier League Darts 17:50 Forensic Detectives 08:20 Good Luck Charlie 07:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 21:00 Perfect Sense-18 18:00 Top 14 18:40 On The Case With Paula Zahn 08:45 Doc McStuffins 08:00 Seinfeld 23:00 Blind Revenge-18 20:00 Futbol Mundial 19:30 Disappeared 09:05 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 08:30 Emily’s Reasons Why Not 20:30 Total Rugby 20:20 Nightmare Next Door 09:30 A.N.T Farm 09:00 Ben And Kate 21:00 Super Rugby Highlights 21:10 Couples Who Kill 09:55 Jonas 09:30 Modern Family 22:00 AFL Premiership Highlights 22:00 On The Case With Paula Zahn 01:00 Rabbit Hole-PG15 10:15 So Random 10:00 The Mindy Project 23:00 Trans World Sport 22:50 I Escaped Death 02:45 Footloose-PG15 10:40 Hannah Montana 10:30 Samantha Who? 11:05 Sonny With A Chance 23:40 I Almost Got Away With It 04:45 Moneyball-PG15 11:00 The Tonight Show With Jay 07:00 Something Borrowed-PG15 11:25 Kim Possible Leno 09:00 Larry Crowne-PG15 00:00 UIM F1H2O Nations Cup 11:50 Shake It Up 12:00 Arrested Development 10:45 Battleship-PG15 00:30 UIM Powerboat Champs 12:15 Shake It Up 12:30 Seinfeld 13:00 Taken From Me: The Tiffany 01:00 NHL 12:35 Wizards Of Waverly Place 13:00 Emily’s Reasons Why Not 00:45 Deadly Arts Rubin Story-PG 03:00 Ping Pong World 13:00 Wizards Of Waverly Place 13:30 Samantha Who? 01:40 Deadliest Journeys 15:00 Page Eight-PG15 04:00 US Bass Fishing 13:25 Austin And Ally 14:00 The Simpsons 02:05 The Best Job In The World 17:00 Larry Crowne-PG15 05:00 NHL 13:45 Jessie 14:30 The Mindy Project 02:35 Bondi Rescue 18:45 Snow White And The 07:00 WWE SmackDown 14:10 A.N.T Farm 15:00 Modern Family 03:00 Bondi Rescue Huntsman-PG15 09:00 Ping Pong World 14:35 So Random 15:30 The Daily Show With Jon 03:30 Danger Beach 21:00 That’s My Boy-R 10:00 US Bass Fishing 14:55 The Adventures Of Disney Stewart 03:55 The Ride: Alaska To Patagonia 23:00 The Inbetweeners-18 11:00 NHL Fairies 16:00 The Colbert Report 04:25 Lonely Planet: Roads Less 13:00 WWE Vintage Collection 15:20 Good Luck Charlie 16:30 Arrested Development Travelled 14:00 WWE Bottom Line 15:45 Jessie 17:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 05:20 Departures 15:00 Mass Participation Ironman 16:10 Shake It Up 18:00 New Girl 06:15 Food Lover’s Guide To The 01:00 Olentzero And The Magic Log 17:00 UIM Aquabike Champs 16:35 A.N.T. Farm 18:30 Friends Planet 02:45 Battle For Terra 17:30 UFC TUF Finale 17:00 Austin And Ally 19:00 Community 06:40 Market Values 04:30 Barnyard 20:30 Prizefighter 17:20 Suite Life On Deck 20:00 The Tonight Show With Jay 17:45 Suite Life On Deck 07:10 The Frankincense Trail 06:00 Winx 23:30 NHL 08:05 Deadly Arts Leno 08:00 Dragon Hunters 18:10 Cory In The House 21:00 The Daily Show With Jon 18:30 Wizards Of Waverly Place 09:00 Deadliest Journeys 10:00 Snowmen 09:25 The Best Job In The World Stewart 11:30 Return To Halloweentown 18:55 That’s So Raven 21:30 The Colbert Report 19:20 A.N.T Farm 09:55 Bondi Rescue 13:00 Blue Elephant 2 01:15 A Patch Of Blue-PG 10:20 Bondi Rescue 22:00 The League 14:45 Battle For Terra 03:00 Shaft 19:40 Good Luck Charlie 22:30 Eastbound & Down 20:05 Jessie 10:50 Danger Beach 16:15 Horrid Henry 04:45 Mr. Skeffington-FAM 11:15 The Ride: Alaska To Patagonia 23:00 The Big C 18:00 Snowmen 07:00 North By Northwest-PG 20:30 Wizards Of Waverly Place 23:30 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 20:50 Wizards Of Waverly Place 11:45 Lonely Planet: Roads Less 20:00 The Apple & The Worm 09:15 The Hook-PG 21:15 So Random Travelled 22:00 Blue Elephant 2 10:50 Lost In A Harem-FAM 21:40 Hannah Montana 12:40 Long Way Down 23:45 Horrid Henry 12:20 Dial M For Murder-PG 22:00 Jonas 13:35 Graham’s World 00:00 Eureka 14:10 Mildred Pierce-PG 22:25 Sonny With A Chance 14:00 Market Values 01:00 The Client List 16:00 The Adventures Of Robin 22:50 Sonny With A Chance 14:30 The Frankincense Trail 02:00 Castle Hood-PG 00:00 Failure To Launch-PG15 23:10 Wizards Of Waverly Place 15:25 Around The World For Free 04:00 Bones 17:45 Mr. Skeffington-FAM 02:00 According To Greta-PG15 23:35 Wizards Of Waverly Place 16:20 Deadliest Journeys 05:00 Castle 20:00 Operation Crossbow-PG THE WARD ON OSN ACTION HD 16:45 The Best Job In The World 06:00 Eureka 04:00 Dead Lines-PG15 22:00 The Champ-PG Classifieds

SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013

Kuwait KNCC PROGRAMME FROM THURSDAY TO WEDNESDAY (16/05/2013 TO 22/05/2013)

SHARQIA-1 PHANTOM (DIG) 10:15 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 12:45 AM PHANTOM (DIG) 12:45 PM PHANTOM (DIG) 12:30 AM STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG) 2:45 PM NO SUN+ TUE+WED AL-KOUT.3 STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG) 5:30 PM THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG) 1:30 PM PHANTOM (DIG) 8:15 PM MARINA-3 JAVA HEAT (DIG) 4:15 PM STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG) 10:15 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 1:45 PM THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG) 6:30 PM PHANTOM (DIG) 1:00 AM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 4:15 PM THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG) 9:30 PM THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG-3D) 6:45 PM JAVA HEAT (DIG) 12:15 AM SHARQIA-2 THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG-3D) 9:30 PM NO SUN+ TUE+WED THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG-3D) 1:45 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 12:15 AM THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG-3D) 4:30 PM NO SUN+ TUE+WED BAIRAQ-1 IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 7:15 PM STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG-3D) 12:45 PM THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG-3D) 9:45 PM AVENUES-1 STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG-3D) 3:30 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 12:30 AM JAVA HEAT (DIG) 2:00 PM STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG-3D) 6:15 PM RISE OF THE ZOMBIES (DIG) 4:15 PM SHARQIA-3 JAVA HEAT (DIG) 6:30 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 9:00 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 1:15 PM JAVA HEAT (DIG) 8:45 PM STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG-3D) 11:45 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 3:30 PM RISE OF THE ZOMBIES (DIG) 11:00 PM THE CALL (DIG) 5:45 PM JAVA HEAT (DIG) 1:15 AM BAIRAQ-2 SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 7:45 PM NO SUN+ TUE+WED PHANTOM (DIG) 12:30 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 10:00 PM PHANTOM (DIG) 2:30 PM THE CALL (DIG) 12:15 AM AVENUES-2 THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG) 4:45 PM WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 1:45 PM PHANTOM (DIG) 7:30 PM MUHALAB-1 WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 4:00 PM THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG) 9:45 PM THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG) 1:45 PM THE CALL (DIG) 6:15 PM PHANTOM (DIG) 12:30 AM JAVA HEAT (DIG) 4:30 PM WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 8:30 PM THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG) 6:30 PM WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 10:45 PM BAIRAQ-3 THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG) 9:15 PM THE CALL (DIG) 1:00 AM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 2:00 PM NO SUN+ TUE+WED SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 4:15 PM MUHALAB-2 THE CALL (DIG) 6:30 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 1:00 PM AVENUES-3 SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 8:30 PM PHANTOM (DIG) 3:30 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 12:30 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 10:45 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 5:30 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 2:45 PM THE CALL (DIG) 1:00 AM PHANTOM (DIG) 7:45 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 5:00 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 9:45 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 7:15 PM PLAZA SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 9:30 PM STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG) 5:30 PM MUHALAB-3 SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 11:45 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 8:15 PM FOR SALE IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 1:30 PM NO SUN+ TUE+WED STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG) 10:30 PM STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG-3D) 4:15 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 7:00 PM 360º- 1 LAILA Leaving Kuwait perma- STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG-3D) 9:30 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 1:30 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG) 5:30 PM nently after retirement. All SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 3:45 PM NO WED households including FANAR-1 SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 6:00 PM THE GREAT GATSBY (DIG) 8:00 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 1:15 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 8:15 PM fridge, electrical items, jog- SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 3:30 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 10:30 PM NO WED ging machine, furniture etc THE CALL (DIG) 5:45 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 12:45 AM STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG) 10:45 PM or full flat on sale. Contact: SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 7:45 PM NO SUN+ TUE+WED NO WED 99798432. (C 4418) SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 10:00 PM 19-5-2013 SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 2:15 AM 360º- 2 AJIAL.1 WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 12:45 PM EMMANUEL (DIG) (MALAYALAM) 6:30 PM FANAR-2 WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 3:00 PM EMMANUEL (DIG) (MALAYALAM) 9:30 PM Nissan Infiniti G37 2009 PHANTOM (DIG) 2:45 PM WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 5:15 PM model, 3.7 liter, excellent PHANTOM (DIG) 3:00 PM WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 7:30 PM AJIAL.2 condition, automatic, origi- RISE OF THE ZOMBIES (DIG) 5:00 PM WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 9:45 PM TADAKHA (DIG) (TELUGU) 6:45 PM nal paint, 6 cylinder, 6 CD PHANTOM (DIG) 7:00 PM WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 12:05 AM THU+FRI PHANTOM (DIG) 9:00 PM NO SUN+ TUE+WED SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 5:30 PM changer, mobile connectivi- PHANTOM (DIG) 11:00 PM NO THU+FRI ty, rear view camera and PHANTOM (DIG) 1:00 AM 360º- 3 SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 7:45 PM scanner, sunroof, sand col- JAVA HEAT (DIG) 1:00 PM NO THU+FRI or, cruise control, GPS, as FANAR-3 JAVA HEAT (DIG) 3:15 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 10:00 PM good as new. Has run JAVA HEAT (DIG) 1:00 PM JAVA HEAT (DIG) 5:30 PM 60,000 kms, Price KD WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 3:15 PM JAVA HEAT (DIG) 7:45 PM AJIAL.3 AURANGZEB (DIG) (HINDI) 5:30 PM JAVA HEAT (DIG) 10:00 PM NERAM (DIG) (TAMIL) 7:00 PM 6,500/-. Contact: 99742340. JAVA HEAT (DIG) 8:30 PM JAVA HEAT (DIG) 12:15 AM NERAM (DIG) (TAMIL) 10:00 PM (C 4414) WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 10:45 PM NO SUN+ TUE+WED 13-5-2013 JAVA HEAT (DIG) 12:45 AM AJIAL.4 AL-KOUT.1 AURANGZEB (DIG) (HINDI) 6:45 PM MARINA-1 IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 2:00 PM AURANGZEB (DIG) (HINDI) 9:45 PM STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG) 1:30 PM STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG-3D) 4:30 PM MATRIMONIAL JAVA HEAT (DIG) 4:30 PM STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG-3D) 7:15 PM METRO-1 STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG) 6:30 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 10:00 PM NERAM (DIG) (TAMIL) 6:30 PM I am an American Muslim STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG) 9:15 PM STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG-3D) 12:30 AM NERAM (DIG) (TAMIL) 9:30 PM man looking for a Muslim Prayer timings STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (DIG) 12:05 AM NO SUN+ TUE+WED woman from ages of 23 to NO SUN+ TUE+WED AL-KOUT.2 METRO-2 33. Please only Muslim Fajr: 03:23 MARINA-2 SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 1:15 PM TADAKHA (DIG) (TELUGU) 6:45 PM woman reply. My email is: Shorook 04:54 SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 1:30 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 3:30 PM THU+FRI [email protected] Duhr: 11:44 PHANTOM (DIG) 3:45 PM WELCOME TO THE PUNCH (DIG) 6:00 PM EMMANUEL (DIG) (MALAYALAM) 6:45 PM NO THU+FRI m Asr: 15:20 SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 5:45 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 8:15 PM (C 4417) SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 8:00 PM SAMEER ABOO ELNEEL (DIG) 10:30 PM TADAKHA (DIG) (TELUGU) 10:00 PM Maghrib: 18:35 18-5-2013 Isha: 20:03

DIAL 161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION

Arrival Flights on Sunday 19/5/2013 QTR 136 DOHA 21:35 Departure Flights on Sunday 19/5/2013 QTR 141 DOHA 14:55 Airlines Flt Route Time GFA 217 BAHRAIN 21:45 Airlines Flt Route Time KAC 673 DUBAI 15:05 BBC 43 DHAKA 00:05 QTR 6130 DOHA 21:45 AIC 976 GOA/CHENNAI 00:05 IRC 6508 SHIRAZ 15:25 QTR 148 DOHA 00:15 QTR 146 DOHA 22:00 AXB 490 MANGALORE 00:15 KAC 561 AMMAN 15:30 RJA 642 AMMAN 01:10 JAI 576 COCHIN 22:05 JAI 573 MUMBAI 00:20 KNE 473 JEDDAH 15:30 THY 764 SABIHA 01:40 FDB 59 DUBAI 22:20 UAL 981 WASHINGTON DC DULLES 00:25 OMA 646 MUSCAT 15:40 JZR 539 CAIRO 00:40 AIC 981 CHENNAI 22:25 DLH 637 FRANKFURT 00:30 KAC 617 DOHA 15:45 JZR 267 BEIRUT 00:20 UAL 981 BAHRAIN 22:40 BBC 44 CHITTAGONG 01:30 SVA 503 MADINAH 15:45 KAC 544 CAIRO 04:10 DLH 636 FRANKFURT 23:10 THY 773 ISTANBUL 02:20 KAC 513 IMAM KHOMEINI 16:20 ETH 620 ADDIS ABABA 01:45 JAI 574 MUMBAI 23:20 THY 765 ISTANBUL 02:40 RJA 641 AMMAN 16:55 GFA 211 BAHRAIN 01:55 PIA 205 LAHORE 23:40 ETH 621 ADDIS ABABA 02:45 JZR 238 AMMAN 17:05 UAE 853 DUBAI 02:25 KAC 102 NEW YORK 19:35 UAE 854 DUBAI 03:45 QTR 135 DOHA 17:15 ETD 305 ABU DHABI 02:30 KAC 172 FRANKFURT 21:15 FDB 68 DUBAI 03:50 ETD 304 ABU DHABI 17:20 FDB 67 DUBAI 03:10 KAC 166 PARIS 18:40 MSR 613 CAIRO 04:15 JZR 538 CAIRO 17:40 MSR 612 CAIRO 03:15 KAC 542 CAIRO 18:15 ETD 306 ABU DHABI 04:20 SYR 342 LATAKIA 17:45 QTR 138 DOHA 03:30 KAC 502 BEIRUT 18:50 QTR 139 DOHA 04:25 ABY 128 SHARJAH 17:50 KAC 302 MUMBAI 07:50 KAC 674 DUBAI 19:25 QTR 149 DOHA 05:15 UAE 858 DUBAI 18:15 KAC 352 COCHIN 08:05 KAC 562 AMMAN 20:45 JZR 560 SOHAG 05:35 GFA 216 BAHRAIN 18:20 KAC 382 DELHI 07:30 KAC 786 JEDDAH 18:30 FDB 70 DUBAI 06:30 SVA 511 RIYADH 18:20 KAC 206 ISLAMABAD 07:25 KAC 514 TEHRAN 20:50 RJA 643 AMMAN 06:35 JZR 184 DUBAI 18:30 KAC 332 TRIVANDRUM 07:55 KAC 618 DOHA 19:10 GFA 212 BAHRAIN 07:00 UAL 982 BAHRAIN 18:40 KAC 412 MANILA 06:15 JZR 185 DUBAI 22:40 THY 771 ISTANBUL 07:10 JZR 266 BEIRUT 18:40 THY 770 ISTANBUL 04:35 JZR 787 RIYADH 16:15 JZR 164 DUBAI 07:25 QTR 145 DOHA 19:25 CLX 792 LUXEMBOURG 04:55 JZR 177 DUBAI 17:30 CLX 792 GIALAM 08:15 FDB 64 DUBAI 19:35 DHX 170 BAHRAIN 05:10 QTR 134 DOHA 15:45 BAW 156 LONDON 08:25 GFA 220 BAHRAIN 19:50 FDB 69 DUBAI 05:50 RJA 640 AMMAN 15:55 FDB 54 DUBAI 08:25 JZR 134 BAHRAIN 20:05 BAW 157 LONDON 06:30 ETD 303 ABU DHABI 16:35 KAC 171 FRANKFURT 08:55 AXB 394 KOZHIKODE 20:15 FDB 53 DUBAI 07:45 SYR 341 DAMASCUS 16:45 KAC 117 NEW YORK 09:05 MSR 619 ALEXANDRIA 20:30 UAE 855 DUBAI 08:25 UAE 857 DUBAI 16:55 KAC 671 DUBAI 09:25 JAI 571 MUMBAI 20:35 ABY 125 SHARJAH 08:50 ABY 127 SHARJAH 17:10 ABY 126 SHARJAH 09:30 FDB 62 DUBAI 20:40 JZR 555 ALEXANDRIA 06:20 GFA 215 BAHRAIN 17:20 UAE 856 DUBAI 09:50 ABY 120 SHARJAH 20:45 KAC 742 DAMMAM 13:30 SVA 510 RIYADH 17:20 FDB 56 DUBAI 09:55 AFG 415 JEDDAH 20:45 KAC 284 DHAKA 12:05 UAL 982 WASHINGTON DC DULLES 17:25 ETD 302 ABU DHABI 10:15 OMA 648 MUSCAT 20:55 KAC 672 DUBAI 13:40 QTR 144 DOHA 18:25 IRA 602 SHIRAZ 10:20 MEA 403 BEIRUT 21:15 KAC 774 RIYADH 13:45 FDB 63 DUBAI 18:55 KAC 773 RIYADH 10:20 DHX 171 BAHRAIN 21:50 JZR 165 DUBAI 11:35 GFA 219 BAHRAIN 19:05 QTR 133 DOHA 10:25 KLM 417 DAMMAM 22:05 QTR 132 DOHA 09:00 AXB 393 KOZHIKODE 19:15 KAC 741 DAMMAM 10:30 ETD 308 ABU DHABI 22:15 FDB 55 DUBAI 09:15 MSR 606 LUXOR 19:30 KAC 501 BEIRUT 11:10 ALK 230 COLOMBO 22:20 IRA 603 SHIRAZ 09:20 JAI 572 MUMBAI 19:35 IRC 6667 AHWAZ 11:10 UAE 860 DUBAI 22:25 ETD 301 ABU DHABI 09:30 AFG 415 KABUL 19:45 GFA 214 BAHRAIN 11:25 KAC 343 CHENNAI 22:30 IRC 6666 AHWAZ 10:10 OMA 647 MUSCAT 20:00 KAC 541 CAIRO 11:30 QTR 137 DOHA 22:35 GFA 213 BAHRAIN 10:40 FDB 61 DUBAI 20:00 MEA 405 BEIRUT 11:55 KAC 301 MUMBAI 22:40 MEA 404 BEIRUT 10:55 ABY 129 SHARJAH 20:05 JZR 776 JEDDAH 12:25 GFA 218 BAHRAIN 22:45 UAE 871 DUBAI 12:45 MEA 402 BEIRUT 20:15 JZR 480 ISTANBUL 12:30 FDB 60 DUBAI 23:00 MSR 610 CAIRO 13:00 KLM 417 AMSTERDAM 21:05 KAC 103 LONDON 12:30 KAC 205 ISLAMABAD 23:00 THY 766 ISTANBUL 13:10 ALK 229 COLOMBO 21:10 JZR 786 RIYADH 12:50 JAI 575 KOCHI 23:05 QTR 140 DOHA 13:45 UAE 859 DUBAI 21:15 KAC 785 JEDDAH 13:00 KAC 351 KOCHI 23:10 FDB 57 DUBAI 13:50 JZR 777 JEDDAH 17:50 JZR 176 DUBAI 13:20 QTR 6131 DOHA 23:15 IRC 6507 SHIRAZ 14:25 JZR 135 BAHRAIN 23:00 MSR 611 CAIRO 14:00 QTR 147 DOHA 23:15 SVA 500 JEDDAH 14:30 JZR 239 AMMAN 22:30 THY 767 ISTANBUL 14:10 KAC 411 BANGKOK 23:40 KNE 472 JEDDAH 14:35 JZR 481 SABIHA 20:10 UAE 872 DUBAI 14:15 KAC 283 DHAKA 23:45 OMA 645 MUSCAT 14:40 THY 772 ISTANBUL 23:45 FDB 58 DUBAI 14:30 KAC 415 KUALA LUMPUR 23:50 ETD 307 ABU DHABI 21:30 Directorate General of Civil Aviation Home Page (www.kuwait-airport.com.kw) stars34 SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013

CROSSWORD 194 STAR TRACK

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

After the chores this morning you look for ways to enjoy your work-free day. You are so business oriented; you and your friends could get-together You seek deep, meaningful experiences that are photographic moments to when you are not in a work situation and agree to invest in some project. Plan together and set ponder. A friend or relative may give you an update of his or her life or drama just to hear your up the process toward a lucrative venture. A temporary program for this project would be best. reaction and comments. You enjoy probing and understanding the inner, intimate and philo- The success, if it were to be kept short-term, is probable and most positive. You are feeling sophical side of life and others like to know your opinion. You can be very helpful without really good. This will rub off on the folks around you and you will all have a good time; no matter realizing it. Today is anything but stressful as you enjoy your friends in some group play or com- what the activity. This is the right time to throw a party. This time brings positive thinking, men- petition. You usually attract positive people into your life. Your circle of friends just keeps tal stability, good feelings, relaxation and opportunity. This is a good time to make long-range enlarging and brings about a great deal of pleasure. You could find that you are appreciated plans, take advantage of further education, take a long-distance trip or take up philosophy or more than you thought. religious studies.

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

You find it easy to work with others and you tend to pour a lot of interest Real insight into your own inner workings or psychology could surface into those around you. This may not mean you are working, but it could mean you have today and in a manageable form. You may be in the mood for deep and penetrating conversa- involved yourself with some neighborhood cleanup program or some other community tions or thoughts. You may be very eloquent or forceful in speaking or communicating. People works. Your home and surroundings reflect your ability to express yourself in light. With will understand just what you mean. A new job idea could be to hire teachers or instructors your powerful spirit, you enjoy your strong emotions and have an active social life as well. that would train other business employees in a number of technical subjects. This might You are very skilled at working with psychology and the hidden recesses of the mind and include software programs, technical style and sales techniques. Find ways in which to nourish may be quite helpful. You would make an excellent psychologist and teacher. You may feel another person’s self-esteem today. In turn, you will find your own self-esteem improves. Teach the need to care for others perhaps on a public rather than private level. A volunteer serv- a child to respect his or her own ability to create positive results from his or her actions. Tonight, ice may be in order now. you enjoy a loved one.

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

Yours is the most practical of environments. You can manipulate every idea Your timing should be perfect today—those around you will find you or situation and put it to good use. Others value you for your ability to make to be most intuitive. Communicating with neighbors, friends and family is practical decisions and you may receive compliments along those lines today. There will be the focus today. You could find yourself writing letters and making phone calls. Conflicts opportunities to do some creative word play with friends or relatives in coming up with some can be settled through your intelligent comprehension. You can be most persuasive. You ACROSS by the measles virus and occurring primarily in new job opportunities or in giving recommendations to someone that would like a new job have needs and you sense the needs of others; fitting the two together makes everything work well. This is perhaps a good time to catch up on your reading as you have a real 1. A flat wing-shaped process or winglike part of children and young adults. idea. Later today, you might decide to walk up or drive over to the nearest golf course, amuse- ment club or park to meet your friends. You could be a bit restless this afternoon and may appreciation for ideas and views of others. Selling property, collecting money and involv- an organism. 5. Made warm or hot. ing yourself in some sports activity are all favored this afternoon. There are excellent 4. Shell containing lead pellets that explodes in 6. An intensely radioactive metallic element that desire some fun time away from home. Be careful in the choices you make. If you cannot remain objective, remain detached. interactions with loved ones tonight. flight. occurs in minute amounts in uranium ores. 12. Black tropical American cuckoo. 7. State categorically. 15. A metric unit of volume or capacity equal to 8. The title of the ancient Egyptian kings. 10 liters. 9. A genus of the cactus family with scarlet flow- Cancer (June 21-July 22) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) 16. Of or on or relating to the seashore. ers. CAPRICORN 17. (British) Informal term for information. 10. (Greek mythology) Goddess of discord. You resist change and resent others prying into your personal affairs. You prefer Creative endeavors promote lots of attention and monetary rewards. This 18. Consider or hold as true. 11. Having leadership guidance. things unchanged but you also know that people, including yourself, need to learn may mean you are showing off your talent in an art show or fair of some sort. 20. Full of flavor. 12. Small terrestrial lizard of warm regions of the and grow. Self-analysis is an activity that you have learned to enjoy as you have seen yourself achieve You could show great sales ability and meet someone new in the process. This is a good day for 21. Title for a civil or military leader (especially in Old World. more and more accomplishments and attained goals than ever before. You may decide it is time for ideas. You may receive some recognition or special attention regarding your particular skills Turkey). 13. A desert in southern Israel. new goals. Make sure you continue to insert a few short-term goals with the long-range goals. The and abilities. Friends enjoy your company today as much as you enjoy their friendship. You 22. English economist noted for his studies of 14. Complacently or inanely foolish. short-term goals help to build up confidence. You will help a friend this afternoon with some job they could be out enjoying some sports-related activity with your friends later today. This evening is international trade and finance (born in 1907). 19. The younger brother of Edwy who became have taken upon themselves. You find a creative environment in which to enjoy friends this evening. a good time to spend with a loved one. Emotions are up and you may even find yourself pon- dering a bit on the meaning of life. You feel at one with your situation. Generally, this could be a king of Northumbria when it renounced Edwy. Perhaps a comedy club or a dinner playhouse is in the works. 25. Using speech rather than writing. potentially satisfying time. 27. A unit of elastance equal to the reciprocal of a 23. A heavy odorless colorless gas formed during farad. respiration and by the decomposition of organic 31. Tall grass of New Zealand grown for plume- substances. like flower heads. 24. A deficiency of red blood cells. Leo (July 23-August 22) Aquarius (January 20- February 18) 33. Drug (trade name Isordil) used to treat angina 26. Plant cultivated for its enlarged fleshy turnip- Elevate your intake of healthy foods and supplements in order to stay You and your family may decide there is time to take a trip. This revela- pectoris and congestive heart failure. shaped edible stem. alert and clear. You will want to feel good about yourself and the way you do things—this tion may find one or two of you really shuffling around in order to leave at an early hour. 36. An insignia worn to indicate years of service. 28. (Hindu) A manner of sitting (as in the practice addition to your diet will certainly help. This is the time of the year to get outside and You develop a knack for organizing things and people, as a sense of practicality takes hold. 40. A column of light (as from a beacon). of Yoga). enjoy nature. Create some fun opportunities to do just that—open air and having fun A new piece of exercise equipment could be purchased today. This afternoon you will be 41. South American armadillo with three bands 29. Of or relating to or indicative of or issued or with loved ones can lift everyone’s spirit. Work, health and diet results provide a lot of sat- able to spend some relaxing and enjoyable time with loved ones. You may feel unusually isfaction as a new life phase begins. You could be most persuasive with others and of bony plates. performed by a king or queen or other monarch. affectionate and physical this evening. Perhaps you will enjoy a camping trip before the expressive in your speech. An exciting relationship is worth your time today. General 42. Someone who races the luge. 30. A federal agency established to regulate the weather becomes too hot and find the stars overwhelmingly beautiful as you sit beside good feeling and a sense of support and harmony make this a happy time. You may 43. Type genus of the Anatidae. release of new foods and health-related prod- your sweetheart. Whether you are with family, friends or with your sweetheart, this evening decide to cook up a new recipe this evening. 45. An international organization of European ucts. will be pleasant. countries formed after World War II to reduce 32. Syndrome resulting from a serious acute trade barriers and increase cooperation among (sometimes fatal) infection associated with the presence of staphylococcus. its members. Virgo (August 23-September 22) Pisces (February 19-March 20) 48. An Indian side dish of yogurt and chopped 34. A medicinal drug used to evoke vomiting cucumbers and spices. (especially in cases of drug overdose or poison- You are apt to spend a great deal of time with co-workers and people apart You may wonder about the motivations of a friend today. Do not close your 49. A high-crowned black cap (usually made of ing). from work this day. Some type of competitive sports or team effort among co-workers is avail- mind to your friend’s quirks or way of doing things. You should try your best to communicate felt or sheepskin) worn by men in Turkey and Iran 35. The state of needing something that is able. You have unwavering support from family members for whatever future plans are in your needs and desires to friends and relatives so as to avoid misunderstandings. You create and the Caucasus. absent or unavailable. question. Everything conspires to reveal you at your most elegant, particularly in social situa- positive results from a negative situation today. You enjoy and value your own life situation at 51. A small cake leavened with yeast. 37. A Hindu goddess who releases from sin or tions. Innocent flirtations, a movie or theater matinee, or perhaps a stroll through an art gallery this time. A friend will bring you memorable moments of laughter and good conversation. 53. Brief episode in which the brain gets insuffi- disease. is favorably indicated. Watch your budget, but have fun. Chances are also good that you and Sympathy and understanding are emotional qualities that take on greater importance. It’s wis- cient blood supply. 38. Tie again or anew. your partner may be able to work through some things that have been going on under the dom, not knowledge, that counts most. Sports or some competitive activity with family or 54. The 7th letter of the Greek alphabet. 39. A village of huts for native Africans in south- surface. The mellow feeling this evening is perfect for easing any type of difficult relationship. friends is best engaged in now. Help an elderly person learn some gentle exercises in order to keep tone in the muscles. 56. (Bible) The archangel who was the messenger ern Africa. of God. 44. English explorer who with Sir Richard Burton 58. An ache localized in the back. was the first European to explore Lake 62. English essayist (1775-1834). Tanganyika. Word Search Yesterday’s Solution 63. English economist (born in Austria) noted for 46. The blood group whose red cells carry both work on the optimum allocation of resources the A and B antigens. (1899-1992). 47. Portuguese navigator in the service of Spain. 64. Fruit with red or yellow or green skin and 50. A member of an Indian people formerly living sweet to tart crisp whitish flesh. along the Gulf coast of Louisiana and Texas. 66. An amino acid that is found in the central 52. A large bundle bound for storage or trans- nervous system. port. 70. Electrical conduction through a gas in an 55. A histamine blocker (trade name Pepcid) applied electric field. used to treat peptic ulcers and gastritis and 71. Situated at an apex. esophageal reflux. 73. The principal evil jinni in Islamic mythology. 57. A motley assortment of things. 74. A state of southwestern India. 59. American professional baseball player who 75. A tricycle (usually propelled by pedalling). hit more home runs than Babe Ruth (born in 77. God of fire. 1934). 78. The part of the nervous system of vertebrates 60. Type genus of Cycadaceae. that controls involuntary actions of the smooth 61. A member of a seafaring group of North muscles and heart and glands. American Indians who lived on the Pacific coast 79. The great hall in ancient Persian palaces. of British Columbia and southwestern Alaska. 80. (Greek mythology) Goddess of the earth and 65. Large burrowing rodent of South and Central mother of Cronus and the Titans in ancient America. mythology. 67. Primitive chlorophyll-containing mainly aquatic eukaryotic organisms lacking true stems DOWN and roots and leaves. 1. (Old Testament) In Judeo-Christian mythology. 68. European twining plant whose flowers are 2. A cord that is drawn through eyelets or around used chiefly to flavor malt liquors. hooks in order to draw together two edges (as of 69. The largest continent with 60% of the earth's a shoe or garment). population. 3. Type genus of the Alcidae comprising solely 72. Liveliness and energy. the razorbill. 76. A soft silvery metallic element of the alkali 4. A rare chronic progressive encephalitis caused earth group. Yesterday’s Solution

Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 information

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he ‘Grown Woman’ singer - who welcomed her first daughter a sibling, because she enjoyed such a close rela- child, daughter Blue Ivy Carter, into the world in tionship with her younger sister Solange Knowles, 26, when TJanuary 2012 - is said to be expecting again with her they were growing up. She said: “I would like more children. rapper husband Jay-Z. E! News claims “multiple sources” I think my daughter needs some company. I definitely love close to the star told them Beyonce, 31, is pregnant with the being a big sister.” When pressed on when she may have couple’s second child. Speculation about Beyonce’s preg- another child, she added: “At some point, when it’s sup- nancy first started following her attendance at the star-stud- posed to happen.” ded Met Ball earlier this month. The pop superstar is said to have “carefully” hidden her baby bump in a high-waisted Givenchy gown. She was then forced to cancel world tour performance in Antwerp, Belgium, after doctors advised her to rest “as a result of dehydration and exhaustion”. Beyonce recently admitted she would love to give her 16-month-old

he 39-year-old model raises kids Leni, nine, Henry, seven, Johan, six and Lou, three, with former husband Seal, and despite her busy Tschedule, she tries to be around to spend quality time with them whenever possible. She said: “I keep weekends open and wrap my workday at a reasonable hour so I’m home for dinner and bedtime stories.” The busy working mother - who started dating her bodyguard Martin Kristen after splitting from Seal last year - also revealed her key to looking great is water. She added: “I drink a ton of water all day. Honestly, staying hydrated is the best beauty tip. And I have an amazing team that gets me glammed up every time I hit the red carpet.” Heidi recently admitted she pays her kids to drink the healthy smoothies she makes for them. She said: “I’ve never really done a real diet. My New Year’s resolution for 2013 was to start every day with a fresh juice. We make an effort every morning - we peel pineapples, apples, lemons, bananas, kiwis, ginger and berries and we make delicious smoothies. “Some of my kids don’t love it so I decided I would pay them a dollar if they finish their drink. All of the money goes into their piggy banks, they have collected a bunch of money since January 1. What’s good for them is good for me as well.”

he former ‘Dancing With The Stars’ contestant - who was born a girl named Chastity and began gender Treassignment treatment in 2008 - is currently single and still looking for the right person. He told People: “I’m he ‘Can’t Be Tamed’ singer was spotted leaving a Hollywood recording studio with- dating, but I’m just dating around. I haven’t met the right in minutes of Justin, 19, and they are believed to be working on a collaboration. A one yet, so I’m looking.” Chaz, 44, recently lost 60 pounds photographer from X17online.com said: “There aren’t that many recording booths T and is now feeling confident. He told People: “Physically, at this studio, they must be doing something together. Justin and Miley left within min- my body feels just so much better. I’m in a lot less discom- utes of each other - it’s too coincidental. There’s gotta be a collaboration in the works.” fort when I exercise and am doing physical stuff. All of my Miley recently worked with gangster-rapper-turned-reggae artist Snoop Lion on the he 49-year-old actor - who has children Lily-Rose, 13 numbers are all normal now, which is great-my blood pres- song ‘Ashtrays and Heartbreaks’. He said: “Miley Cyrus was always a great singer to me and Jack, 11, with former partner Vanessa Paradis - is sure, my cholesterol. I just have a lot more confidence, and and I knew she was a fan so it was great for us to collaborate. “It’s what she’s going said to be head-over-heels in love with his ‘Rum that feels really cool. I really like what I see in the mirror. “I T through and what I’m going through, she makes great music.” The 20-year-old singer is Diaries’ co-star and has even mentioned marriage. A source really feel very satisfied and comfortable with the way I eat so determined to make her new album a success, she admitted she has pushed her all said: “Johnny is totally head over heels. He says that she is now, which is amazing and for me, kind of a miracle. I nev- of her relationships aside to focus on her music. She said: “All I do is focus on my music. his soul mate and he plans to spend the rest of his life with er thought I’d be that kind of a person.” While Chaz lost an The only place I ever am is at the studio. “I mean it’s literally like my friends, my relation- her. “Things are very serious between these two. He’s told incredible 60 pounds, he didn’t have a target weight in ships with everyone around me have honestly changed since I’ve been working on my her that he wants to get married which is obviously a shock mind. He added: “To me, it was never really about a num- record because it’s the only thing that I’ve wanted to give 120 per cent to and I think it’s to anyone who knows Johnny.” After Johnny mentioned ber. It was just about getting healthy and feeling and look- the only time in my life that I’ve pushed everything aside, everyone aside, anything that, marriage, Amber, 27, is keen to start a family of her own ing better. So I’m just kind of letting my body dictate. I’ve you know, really mattered and just became about the music.” with the hunky star. The insider added to America’s OK! been eating the same way now for months and months magazine: “Amber sees how devoted he is to his kids and it and that hasn’t changed. I’m going to have to eat this way melts her heart. Now she’s fallen so hard for him, she’s all for the rest of my life.” about starting a family with him.” It was recently claimed Johnny showered Amber with gifts in a bid to win her over. A source said recently: “Johnny and Amber began dating pretty soon after he split with Vanessa. “At first, Amber was a little apprehensive, because she didn’t want to be seen as the mistress. But Johnny won her over with his generosity and he was constantly giving her gifts. “On a weekly basis, Johnny would send her fresh flowers wherever she was. He also bought her tons of custom-designed jewels that would cost him up tens of thousands of dollars. “He made Amber feel giddy by showing how much he felt for her and, in the end, she slowly fell in love with him.”

im, 32, is expecting the couple’s first manages to put family first and continues child in July and while Kanye, 35, has to look out for us every day. Motherhood is Ka European tour planned for later a gift and I know after watching my mom this year, he will take his girlfriend and do it, it’s not easy especially when trying to baby on the road with him. A source close balance a career. I can’t wait to follow in her to the couple told Us Weekly: “Yes, it’s true. footsteps and make her proud like I am of This was always the plan.” Meanwhile, Kim her. “Kourtney, my sister, best friend, and can’t wait for the birth of their baby and mentor has also taught me so much about thinks she is completely prepared for motherhood from being the most incredi- he ‘Modern Family’ star is currently in the cus- like I’m supposed to. “Sunday we have family dinner. motherhood thanks to the example provid- ble mom to Mason and Penelope. She is tody of her 34-year-old sister Shanelle Grey after It’s just a different experience for me because I have ed by her mother Kris Jenner and sister super woman with her ability to effortlessly Tbeing removed from her mother Chrisoula more of a family life. I’m really happy.” Chrisoula lost Kourtney, who has two children, Mason, balance work with taking care of two ‘Chrystal’ Workman’s care in October amid allegations custody of Ariel following an investigation by child three, and Penelope, 10 months, with her amazing kids and I am so lucky to have her of abuse and Ariel says her sister is “the most amazing services last year, during which they found evidence boyfriend Scott Disick. She said: “My mom as my guide and confidant as I too become woman”. She told People magazine: “My sister is the of emotional abuse. is a strong and ambitious career woman a mother.” most amazing woman I’ve ever met in my life. If I that despite her busy schedule and the mil- could be half the woman she is ... she’s kind of who I lions of things she has going on, she still want to be like. “[Shanelle] supports me in everything I do, and so does my brother-in-law David. Both are kind of like my biggest supporters.” While Ariel, 15, is grateful for her sister, she also praised her castmates, who she calls her “family”. She said: “Our chemistry has been there since we first met, and it’s really made us come off as a family on the show, and in real life, because we are.” Previously Ariel admitted she has never been happier and feels like a “normal” teenager since moving in with her sister. She said: “My life is definitely more normal-and that’ll help me grow up lifestyle SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013

Gossip

hile the 26-year-old actress and Charlie Sheen’s former wife are both currently being Wtreated at the Betty Ford Clinic, Lindsay is shunning Brooke, 35, because she thinks she is a “drug addict”. A source told RadarOnline: “It’s creeping Lindsay out that Brooke seeks her out nightly at the meetings in an attempt to strike up a friendship. Brooke is extremely eager to become besties with Lindsay while in rehab, and has told Lindsay how much they have in common. “Brooke’s publicist was he 32-year-old actress, whose father is director Ron Howard, was left hurt Lohan’s one-time rep, Steve Honig and Brooke has by “vicious” comments aimed at her when she attended a red carpet even played the Charlie Sheen card, pointing out that Tevent just days after giving birth to her son Theo, now six, in February Charlie helped Lindsay pay off debts to the IRS, so they 2007 and ever since she avoids Google searching her name. She told both have a close relationship to him. “But Lindsay has RadarOnline.com: “People are so vicious. I now know to stay away from stuff said that Brooke is a drug addict, and wants nothing to that I used to see on the internet. I don’t go online and read stories about do with her. Lindsay has told her treatment team to myself anymore. “People were picking on me when I did the ‘Spiderman 3’ press keep Brooke out of her group sessions.” Meanwhile, tour literally just 14 days after I gave birth. I can’t be in that headspace. I just Brooke is reportedly happy with all of the extra atten- don’t look myself up. I had a baby, that isn’t going to change, so I ignore things tion she has received since entering rehab and is hop- so I can be in my own little bubble.” Bryce - who also has 16-month-old daugh- ing it will build her profile. The source added: “She ter Beatrice with her husband Seth Gabel - says her main priority in life is to be isn’t fazed by all of the negative publicity she has been the best mother she can be and she describes her mum Cheryl as a wonderful getting since losing custody of Bob and Max to Denise role model. As a tribute to her mother, the flame-haired beauty has recorded an Richards. In fact, she loves it, and thinks it will help her audiobook of Cheryl’s novel ‘In the Face of Jinn’ and hopes the effort she put chances of landing a role as an actress on a television into the project will make her mum “proud”. She added: “It isn’t anything she sitcom.” ever says to me. It’s that she is brilliant and steady and a rock for our family. [Recording the book] was not easy! I worked with the same dialect coach I used on ‘The Help’ but I did all the characters and I am so proud of the book. “Doing it was so meaningful and has given so much to both of us. My mother is an exceptional woman of integrity and it was such a big deal for her to accomplish the book. I hope I make her proud.”

Demi Lovato

gets a new tattoo he 32-year-old socialite has a cameo role in upcoming drama film ‘The Bling Ring’ - based on true events of when a group of lthough the 32-year-old actress is branching out into other ven- he 20-year-old star celebrated the release of her fourth Tfame-obsessed teenagers tracked the whereabouts of celebri- tures, such as her lifestyle book ‘The Honest Life’, she’ll always album ‘Demi’ by having lyrics from her track ‘Warrior’ ties and robbed their homes, including her own. Even though she return to her main creative passion and since becoming a moth- inked onto her back, courtesy of New York-based tat- accepted a part in Sofia Coppola’s movie, the blonde beauty admits A T er to Honor, five, and Haven, three, she’s become “fearless” when choos- too artist Bang Bang. Demi posted a photo of the italic writ- she’s still coming to terms with the devastating events - which took ing roles. Jessica - who is married to Cash Warren - said: “I’m still so pas- ing, which reads ‘now I’m a warrior’, on her Twitter account, place between 2008 and 2009 - and can’t bring herself to watch the sionate about acting and have that as a creative outlet, and it’s a big adding the caption: “Thanks @BangBang! Album release finished film. She said: “It’s [the robbery] still hard for me to deal with. part of who I am; I’ll never stop acting.” She added: “[Having my kids] day!!! #DEMI (sic)” It’s been a busy week for Bang I haven’t seen the film yet, but I’ll see it at the premiere. I’m going to was the best time of my life. I love it- I feel more fearless as an actress Bang as he also tattooed British model have to close my eyes for fear of seeing what they really did. It still after becoming a mother, which is quite liberating. I’m ready to take on Cara Delevigne, inking a lion onto her horrifies me.” Paris was the gang’s first target and they made off with heavier roles, where before I was nitpicky and afraid of so many things.” index finger. His work was recom- millions of dollars of items and treasured possessions. In an interview In 2012, Jessica launched her business ‘ The Honest Company’ - an eco- mended to the British model by with The Hollywood Reporter, she said: “They came to my house five friendly business which specialises in organically-produced nappies, her best friend Rita Ora and times, stole millions of dollars of my things: Birkin bags, family heir- baby wipes and bath products - and she admits the launch did push Rihanna who have both gone looms, jewellery that was in my family for years, and then they sold it her acting aside. Speaking to Washingtonian magazine, she said: “It’s under his needle. On the song on Venice Beach like a yard sale. “I didn’t get a cent back in insurance my time, and where I was in my life, this business was a priority and a ‘Warrior’, Demi - who went to money, and I will never be able to replace those things.” Other celebri- passion of mine over going to auditions and trying to get roles. I’m still rehab in 2010 to be treated ties who were burgled include Lindsay Lohan, Megan Fox, Audrina doing movies; I’m about to start another at the end of this month. “I for an eating disorder, self- Patridge and Orlando Bloom. The film - which stars Emma Watson, don’t have that filter anymore. I think as you go into a new, different harm issues and bipolar - Taissa Farmiga, and Leslie Mann - was shot at Paris’ property in phase, things do change, and that’s influenced who I am and my choic- sings about having “thicker Calabasas, California and Sofia personally asked Paris if she could use es. It happened organically. — Banghowbiz skin” and having “shame” and her home as a shoot location for authenticity. ‘Bling Ring’ is to be “scars” and she has admitted screened at the Cannes Film Festival and is set for official release on Demi has 12 other tattoos and June 14. admitted she regrets many of them and has even considered hav- ing laser treatment to remove them. She said: “I’ve thought about it before because, you know, when I get older I don’t know if I want to have rock and roll on my middle finger. “I’m young and I can rock it now and when I get older I can worry about it later.” Speaking of one inking, a tattoo of her friend’s lips on her wrist, she added: “It was just a spur of the moment, stupid decision.”

he ‘End Of Watch’ actress - who shot to fame on TV show ‘Ugly Betty’ - is reportedly planning to star in telenovela project ‘Pedro & Maria, a contemporary adaptation of William Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’. The series synopsis states: “Pedro and Maria are two opposites cut Tfrom the same cloth caught in the trap of forbidden love. He is a second generation Dominican from the mean streets of Washington Heights. She is a Puerto Rican whose parents made millions as real estate developers. It’s a clash of the haves and the have-nots, of Main St vs Wall St, set against a volatile cultural backdrop that fiercely believes neither side should mix with the other.” Although America found fame as the titu- lar character in ‘Ugly Betty’ - earning an Emmy Award and Golden Globe Award for her performance - she has previously admitted she nearly quit acting to follow her academic dream until one of her professors gave her some helpful encouragement. The star - who graduated from the University of Southern California earlier this week - said: “I always wanted to go to college and get my education although I always wanted to be an actor. I never knew how those two things would work with each other and this was revealed to me in my first year of college ere.”h She sought advice from Professor David Andrus, who used America’s 2002 movie ‘Real Women Have Curves’ - in which she plays a high school graduate torn between supporting her family and pursuing a university degree - to explain to her she could do both. She said: “What my professor really wanted me to understand was that my passion for acting and what I loved doing in the world had the power to be a tool. In that moment I realised that I didn’t have to give up what I love. I could find a way to link it to other things that I cared about.” lifestyle SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013

Krista Siegfrids (right) of Finland celebrates with other contestants making it through to the final after the vote The stage for the Eurovision Song Contest is seen. — AP/AFP photos counting following the second semifinal of the Eurovision Song Contest at the Malmo Arena in Malmo, Sweden.

n ethno-inspired flute and drum tune from bubble-gum pop number “Marry Me” with a girl-on- fairy-like Ognevich on a rock where she stands for Denmark is the bookmakers’ favorite to win girl kiss that some have interpreted as a stance pro- the rest of the performance. There is also Armenian Athis year’s Eurovision Song Contest, which moting gay marriage. While the show will not raise rock group Dorians, whose gloomy song “Lonely also features a bizarre opera pop number from eyebrows in most parts of Western Europe - where Planet” has been written by Black Sabbath guitarist Romania and an Armenian rock song written by the Eurovision has long been a bastion of gay culture - Tony Iommi. guitarist of Black Sabbath. Yes, it’s that time of the the act may jar sensitivies in parts of eastern and Romania’s Cezar, who resembles a Dracula year again. The televised pan-European extravagan- southern Europe. reborn as a high-pitched vocalist, is apparently a za, known for its kitschy shows, bad taste and bizarre “The fact is that Finland is the only country in the reputable opera singer, but is attempting a offerings, was still expected to be seen by about 125 Nordic countries where gay marriage is not allowed, crossover opera pop number with techno beats and million television viewers worldwide yesterday. This and I think that’s wrong,” Siegfrid told The pyrotechnics. Three muscular male dancers in red year’s contest is being hosted in Malmo, southern Associated Press. “It’s 2013 now and... I can kiss any- body paint are delivered out of a large red cape. Two Sweden, following the victory of the Nordic coun- one I want to. It shouldn’t be a problem.” This year’s semifinals this week have whittled down the con- try’s contestant Loreen last year. competition also sees the return to the international testants from 40 to 26. The winner is picked by juries According to bookmakers, the hippie-chic stage of two seasoned European stars. “Total Eclipse and television viewers across the continent, and the Emmelie De Forest of Denmark is the favorite to win, of the Heart” singer Bonnie Tyler is representing winning nation will stage next year’s event. — AP driving the song “Only Teardrops” with her deep, Britain with “Believe In Me” while Anouk, whose Shakira-like voice. Her main challenge comes from song “Nobody’s Wife” was a big hit in Europe in the the clean-cut techno pop tune “I Feed You My Love” 1990s, is singing the song “Birds” for The by Norway’s Margaret Berger, who rose to fame at Netherlands. home after becoming the runner-up in Norway’s Among the more notable performances is the version of Pop Idol in 2004. “I will be nervous before Ukraine’s Zlata Ognevich with her song “Gravity.” going on stage,” De Forest said Friday. “I think we Ognevich is carried onto the stage by the tallest have a really good song that can take us far, but let’s man in the US - Ukrainian-born Igor Vovkovinskiy. see, anything can happen.” Finland’s Krista Siegfrid Vovkovinskiy - who stands 7 feet 8 inches (234 cms) - provided this year’s controversy, ending her bouncy wobbles onstage in a fur and feathers, placing the Dancers perform during the opening sequence.

ollywood superstar Sanjay Dutt, who is in jail for earning him the nickname “Deadly Dutt”. He was con- arms possession, is being held in a cell built for victed in 2006 of possessing guns supplied by gangsters Bmilitants where he cannot see daylight and wants who staged the 1993 bomb attacks that killed 257 peo- to be transferred, a report said yesterday. Dutt, 53, sur- ple but was freed on bail after serving 18 months in rendered on Thursday to serve out the remaining three- prison. In March, the Supreme Court upheld Dutt’s con- and-a-half years of a five-year term in a case linked to viction. deadly 1993 Mumbai bombings. Dutt’s lawyer, Rizwan He was cleared in 2007 of more serious conspiracy Merchant, has demanded the transfer of the actor charges in the blasts, believed staged by Muslim under- whom he said was being kept in the cell once occupied world leaders in revenge for religious riots in which by Mumbai attacks gunman Mohammed Ajmal Kasab, mainly Muslims died after the razing of an ancient according to the Indian Express daily newspaper. mosque by Hindu zealots. Dutt, whose mother was Pakistani-born Kasab was executed last November, Muslim and father Hindu, was found guilty of posses- nearly four years after 166 people died in a three-day sion of an automatic rifle and a pistol which he insisted rampage that traumatised India. The steel bunker spe- were only meant to protect his family in Mumbai’s cially built for Kasab at Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail had charged atmosphere following the mosque’s destruc- no ventilation and the actor could not even tell if it was tion. After the Supreme Court upheld his conviction, the day or night, the lawyer said. “He (Dutt) is not a terrorist” father-of-three wept and declared himself “a shattered and should not be kept in such a cell, the lawyer was man”. - AFP quoted as saying. There was no immediate comment available from the jail. The actor, whose parents were two of India’s biggest stars, shot to fame in the 1980s in a string of action movies in which he performed his own stunts, Moldova’s Aliona Moon performs. Azerbaijan’s Farid Mammadov performs ‘Hold Me’.

lashy skirts, fake tans, fur and feathers: It’s the 2013 female dancer in her group. It didn’t raise eyebrows in the campy Eurovision Song Contest. The televised extravaganza, with competition that is Eurovision, but the move upset some people Fan audience of 125 million worldwide, is now in its 58th in Europe, where it was interpreted as a stand for gay marriage. year. Once again without fail, it has produced a mix of bubble- gum pop songs, somber ballads, bagpipes, accordions and EMMELIE DE FOREST-DENMARK bizarrely kitsch musical productions. The winner, chosen from 40 This year’s favorite according to the bookies. Denmark’s countries, is picked by juries and television viewers across the answer to Shakira, minus the body gyrations. Borrowing Loreen continent. Contests this week have whittled the field down to 26 of Sweden’s winning concept from last year, she performs bare- acts for Saturday’s final. A look at some of this year’s notable per- foot but has dropped the mystique in favor of an earthy, innocent formances: look.

CEZAR-ROMANIA ZLATA OGNEVICH-UKRAINE Dracula reborn with a techno beat and pyrotechnics: that’s Ognevich hits a hippie theme with butterflies, forests and Cezar. The contra-tenor famed for international opera produc- mists. For an unknown reason, she is carried onto the stage by tions is attempting a crossover opera-pop number with “It’s My the tallest man in the US-Ukrainian-born Igor Vovkovinskiy, who Life.” The result: A man with a powerful voice amid a bizarre spec- measures 7 feet, 8 inches (2.13 meters). Her traditional, up-tempo tacle. Eurovision pop tune displays little originality.

KRISTA SIEGFRID-FINLAND BONNIE TYLER-BRITAIN The blonde whirlwind from Finland caused a stir by kissing a Despite last year’s fiasco for Britain’s 76-year-old Engelbert Humperdinck, the island nation once again places its hopes on a seasoned performer. This time it’s ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart” star ersace is happy to announce the opening of its Kuwait women ready-to-wear and accessories including this season’s Bonnie Tyler. The 61-year-old 1980s singer has sold more than 20 boutique at Prestige, The Avenues Mall, with the new key bags, shoes, belts, watches, sunglasses, and fragrances. “I million records but this time delivers the sleepy ballad “Believe In Vstore concept conceived by Donatella Versace in collabo- love the new Versace store concept. In his designs, Jamie Fobert Me.” ration with English architect Jamie Fobert. The 230 square has created a space where the new Versace comes alive. To me, meter store mixes the opulence and traditions of Italian archi- the store is like a continuing dialogue, between our past and ANOUK-NETHERLANDS tecture with the dynamism and energy of Versace today. Marble future, between Jamie Fobert and me, and between Versace Sixteen years after her rock anthem hit “Nobody’s Wife,” Anouk mosaic, brass and Perspex create a modern and luxurious envi- and our customers,” says Donatella Versace returns to the international stage with the somber “Birds.” ronment for Versace’s men’s and women’s ready-to-wear and “The new Versace concept recaptures the opulent beauty of Dressed entirely in black, she stands center stage, relying on her accessories. Gianni Versace’s first stores, but layered onto this is an optimism voice and a soft string orchestra. Past meets future in the boutique with its mosaic floor, for the future of Versace in the new century. There is a tension inspired by 9th century Byzantine churches, contrasted with between the futuristic element of the Perspex and the deeply MARGARET BERGER-NORWAY Perspex walls and shelving which appear to float above it. The historic floor. Surrounding this centerpiece are soft, curving This clean-cut performance is the bookies’ second favorite. circles of the mosaic floor are echoed in the curved walls, which walls and shelves in rough plaster. The overall effect is undeni- With a high-pitch voice and a heavy techno beat, Berger pro- add energy and the unexpected. Brass fittings throughout con- ably opulent yet completely contemporary,” says Jamie Fobert. Margaret Berger of Norway performs her song ‘I Feed duces a traditional Eurovision pop tune. — AP solidate the ultimate mood of luxury. You My Love’. The boutique carries the complete range of Versace men ad lifestyle SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013

Puerto Rican actor Benicio Del Toro (left) waves yesterday while posing Chinese actor Wang Baoqiang (left) puts on a show for his wife Ma Rong in French director Rebecca Zlotowski (right) and actress Lea Seydoux laugh with French actor Mathieu Amalric during a photocall for the film “Jimmy P. Cannes. —AP/AFP photos yesterday while posing. Psychotherapy of a Plains Indian” presented in Competition at the 66th edi- tion of the Cannes Film Festival in Cannes.

scar winner Benicio Del Toro stars in French Cannes contender “Jimmy P. - Psychotherapy of a Plains Indian”, Othe true story of a traumatised Native American return- ing home from World War II that premiered yesterday. The Puerto Rico-born Del Toro adopts the haunted gaze and stac- cato dialect of Jimmy Picard, a Blackfoot Indian plagued by his past in what reviewers called a stand-out performance. The picture by French director Arnaud Desplechin, presenting his fifth film in the Cannes competition, is based on the 1951 book “Reality and Dream” by anthropologist and Freudian psy- choanalyst Georges Devereux, played in the film by Mathieu Amalric (“Munich”). Jimmy returns from the fighting in France to his sister’s Montana ranch with a brain trauma from a skull fracture and complains of crippling headaches and recurring nightmares. But when he is finally examined at Winter Hospital for veter- ans in Topeka, Kansas in 1948, the doctors say his injuries have healed and can find no physical explanation for his ailments. Realising the problem may be psychological, the hospital’s director notes that his white doctors have little understanding of the inner lives of American Indians. Enter Devereux, a Hungarian Jew who has arrived in the US by way of Paris and done extensive research on Native Americans while training in psychotherapy. The two fish out of water in the American Midwest strike up an unlikely friend- (From left) Actors Flora Lau, Kun Chen and Carina Lau pose for photographers during a photo call for the film Bends yes- ship and reviewers called their bond as played by Del Toro and terday. Amalric a highlight of the film. Desplechin renders many of Jimmy’s nightmares on screen knowing the history of the Native Americans. That’s funda- believe in spirits, we believe in ghosts, we believe in shape- as vivid waking dreams as they root out the childhood catas- mental to understand the character,” he said. Amalric said he shifting, we believe in medicine and curses,” she said. “We’re a trophes and injuries of adulthood behind his suffering. Del underwent analysis himself to prepare for the part. “It’s a role very spiritual people so what somebody else would call delu- Toro, who captured an Academy Award for his role in “Traffic” like deep-sea diving and you meet all these eels and beautiful sional, to us it’s normal. So that’s why they have to create a in 2001 and won Cannes’ best actor prize in 2008 for “Che”, fish as you go deeper,” he said. new way to understand what is going on in their minds with- said he was attracted to the one-of-a-kind story. “I read a lot of Misty Upham, a native Blackfoot who plays Jimmy’s first out confusing the spirituality.” Film magazine Screen Daily scripts-it was so original that it popped up, it popped up, I love Jane, said she believed the film’s cast members were the called the picture “an impressively nuanced and intriguingly don’t know how else to explain it,” he told reporters. “It first Native Americans to appear in competition in Cannes. She un-showy drama”. “Jimmy P.” is one of 20 films vying for the fes- (glowed) in the dark.” said it took the medical profession a long time to catch up to tival’s coveted Palme d’Or top prize, to be awarded on May 26. He said the European telling of a quintessentially American the needs of America’s indigenous population. — AFP tale was also a strong draw. “There’s a big story there that is “When they first started doing psychotherapy with Native still unresolved and so you have to go from that approach, Americans, it was really hard for people to understand that we A guest, wearing a dress made of biscuit trays, arrives in Cannes.

decades-old rivalry between a Bollywood wannabe and a brutal police chief shines a light on Mumbai’s dark Aside, in Indian director Anurag Kashyap’s fast-moving psychological thriller “Ugly” about the kidnapping of a young girl. Enthusiastically received at the Cannes Film Festival on Friday, the aptly titled film was inspired by real events in a city blighted by child trafficking and prostitution. A suicidal woman sets the scene in an upmarket apartment as she contemplates a concoction of pills and alcohol; she eyes a scarf hanging from a ceiling fan before putting a gun in her month. About to pull the trigger, she is interrupted by her young daughter, full of life. Fast forward and a police inspector mocks and toys with the girl’s father and his producer friend as they try to report her abduction from his car. “They are divorced, that’s the problem-divorce,” he tells the actor. Turning to the producer, he reels off the names of some of Bollywood’s biggest stars. “I suppose it’s you who decides (to cast them),” he sneers, surrounded by sniggering subordi- nates. But his menacing tone turns to panic when he realises that the girl is the step-daughter of his police commissioner. Indian Bollywood director Anurag Kashyap poses during a Kashyap says he drew on the “insecurity” he experienced promotional event for his forthcoming film ‘Ugly’ in Latin American Exhibition is unique in every way after he separated from his first wife and daughter to write the Mumbai. film. For years he discussed the script with anyone who would listen but was constantly told it could never be made. today. “Bombay Talkies”, one film comprising four short stories acienda Azul” an exhibition showcasing a col- When he finally got the go-ahead, Kashyap was wary of by the four directors, will be shown at a gala screening today lection of ravishing furniture and accessories of showing the screenplay to anyone. As a result all the actors to celebrate a century of Indian cinema. “HMexican and Guatemalan origin, taking place had to sign up blind for the film. “I refused to share the script India is Cannes’ third guest country following Egypt and at Beit Lothan from the May 19-21 in the presence of Luis with anyone. I said I’m making the film and if you want to Brazil. The other directors whose short films are to be shown Alberto Mexican ambassador and his entourage, and the come with me and do it.... “I had this feeling that if they read today are Dibakar Banerjee, Zoya Akhtar and Karan Johar. presence of Naser Al-Sayer accompanied by family mem- the script they would not allow me to make it so for the first Amit Kumar’s “Monsoon Shootout” will also be shown out of bers, friends and visitors to the exhibition, in addition to a time I reached out to my actors, friends and said ‘you trust me’ competition and Ritesh Batra’s “The Lunchbox” as part of the group of journalists and a select group of staff and banks and everyone came on board.” Critics Week. — AFP community. It is the second consecutive visit to Cannes for the 40-year- Eye popping vibrant Latin colors, talavera tile and warm old director. His five-hour gangster epic “Gangs Of Wasseypur” woods, wrought iron details, step into Hacienda Azul...wel- was warmly received at Cannes last year. “Ugly” is being come to paradise! You are to be sailing in the world of screened this year as part of the Directors Fortnight, a sidebar imagination a far away land, Mexico, where the colors are to the main competition. He is also known for his 2004 Hindi- playing wonderful Latin tunes, so unique, the statues, dec- language film “Black Friday” about the 1993 Bombay bomb- orates the spaces in an unprecedented ways that are pleas- ings. In addition to “Ugly”, Kashyap is one of four up-and-com- ures to the eyes. ing Indian directors whose work will be showcased in Cannes The philosophy of the Latin decor, is derived from the flagrant nature, from the color of the sun, the golden yel- low, and even from the colors of the mountains, the sea and the geography of the country’s wood. This versified nature has greatly influenced the architec- Chinese mogul partners tural style. Also the fact that the families are interdepend- (Left) Luluwa Al-Sayer and Suad Al-Sayer ent and the Latin’s love of art impact on the tools used at home while cooking and in the Mexicans and Guatemalan ful style, and we want to convey that joyful to look designs with French film tycoon general life. to our fellow women in Kuwait, whom are long known to hinese mogul Bruno Wu’s Seven Stars Entertainment has Monaco,” which Wu executive-produced. Seven Stars, which During the exhibition “Hacienda Azul” Suad Al-Sayer have excellent taste in selecting furniture and home deco- partnered with French mogul Pierre-Ange Le Pogam to formed last year, has three movies premiering at Cannes this and Luluwa Al-Sayer commented: “ We have been rations, and we thank the Mexican Ambassador Luis Cform Angel Storm, a new joint venture that will develop year - James Gray’s “The Immigrant,” Nicolas Winding Refn’s impressed by the fragrances of perfumes, which are char- Alberto whom will be honoring the opening of the exhibi- and produce European-Chinese co-productions. Le Pogam and “Only God Forgives” and Guillaume Canet’s “Blood Ties.” acterized by the Mexican and Guatemalan decor and are tion, and Naser Al-Sayer and family, friends and distin- Wu have already picked the venture’s first two films, “Shanghai” “Oblivion” star Olga Kurylenko, Luke Bracey of “G.I. Joe: well in harmony of colors, making it a unique and wonder- guished visitors of this exhibition”. and “Triangle,” which both will produce. Le Pogam’s Stone Retaliation” and Bill Smitrovich of “Iron Man” have all joined the Angels will handle distribution rights in France, while Seven cast of spy thriller “November Man,” Das Films and Irish Stars will distribute in China. “Pierre-Ange is a very versatile Dreamtime announced on Friday. filmmaker and executive, whether he’s dealing with a main- Pierce Brosnan will star in the film as a former CIA agent stream commercial title or an art house film, he understands who must combat his former pupil (Bracey) to find a woman the global business, and we both share a love for movies,” Wu (Kurylenko) central to an international plot. “Pierce and I said in a statement. “I believe Angel Storm will deliver franchise couldn’t be happier with the cast we’ve put together on a proj- actioners to international audiences everywhere.” ect that’s been a true labor of love,” producer Beau St. Clair said. Wu has set up a variety of partnerships over the past couple “We’re excited to reintroduce Pierce to the spy game, especially of years, from his joint venture with Avi Arad to his film fund co- with such great talent surrounding him.”—Reuters financed by the government of the Binhai New Area. This deal lands him a major partner in Europe while awarding Le Pogam an inside track at distribution in China. Le Pogam is a veteran of the European film scene, a co-founder of EuropaCorp, the com- pany behind hits like the “Taken” and ‘Transporter” franchises. His Stone Angels produced the Grace Kelly biopic “Grace of Denmark favorite to win Eurovision Song Contest

SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2013 38

The winners and their families are pictured having a great time by the beach in Kuwait during the 25th Raft Race competition. — Photos by Fouad Al-Shaikh

By Ben Garcia

oyota Al-Sayer once again bagged the champi- onship title at the 25th Raft Race competition, Twhich was held at the Aqua Park yesterday. Toyota Al-Sayer has won the title for the 15th consecutive year in the 25-year history of the race. Aqua Park Director Mohammad Al-Enezi and Aqua Park Board Chairman Ibrahim Al-Haroon, along with the sponsors, presented the trophies. While speaking to reporters after receiving the title trophy and the special jubilee cup, which is awarded by Aqua Park to the over- all wining team, Kahled Al-Enezi said his team deserved the crown, since they had been undergoing intense training with the sole purpose of taking home the title. “Toyota Al-Sayer has been very supportive to all our team members so we have the attitude and tradition of winners as always. We are very happy and proud to bag the championship once again,” he told Kuwait Times. According to Al-Enezi, the team won because it trained sincerely. “We have added a lot of new blood this year, too. I think I could attribute the success of our team to our long history of winning - besides experience and technique, which we applied in the race. We also got the title because we have the right design that works well with the flow of the waves and wind. Design [of the boat] is very important in the raft race,” he stated. Toyota Cartoon Network and Sea Sports Club. Among their Al-Sayer also took home the “Best in Design” award for sponsors were Sebamed, Sultan Center, Coca Cola and their boat. Second place went to the Sea Sports Club the Al-Sayer Group. At the closing ceremony, all teams Team, which was described by Al-Enezi as “all armed and sponsors received their trophies and plaques of with experience as well”. The Yokohama Team and ABB appreciation for their valuable support and contribu- Men’s Welded Winners earned the third and fourth place, respectively. The race tions to the success of this year’s event. For the tenth 1. Toyota categories included Welded-Men and Welded-Mixed. year running, Aqua Park has organized the prestigious 2. Kuwait Sea Sports Club The Welded-Women category, however, was eventually annual event, which is popular among Kuwaitis as well 3. Kuwait Sea Sports Club cancelled due to poor participation. as other nationalities. Previously, Raft Race was hosted Besides raft race, other activities were held at the by Messilah Beach Hotel, but now Jumeirah Beach Hotel Mixed Welded Winners Aqua Park, including beach volleyball and live music and Spa host it. 1. Al-Sayer performances, which greatly added to the fiesta-like 2. Kuwait Sea Sports Club atmosphere there. Other teams participating in the 3. Yokohama Al-Sayer event were from Kuwait Agriculture Company, Future Kid Entrainment Center, Fantasy World, Casper, ABB,