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TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 RABI ALAWWAL 22, 1436 AH www.kuwaittimes.net FM leads Arab Children return ‘Boyhood’ wins Qatar ‘ready’ delegation to Taleban big at Globes; for 2015 men’s to support massacre school next stop, handball world Lebanon4 in11 Pakistan the38 Oscars championship19 Govt firm on new diesel Min 04º Max 17º prices, but open to talks High Tide 04:10 & 17:07 Low Tide HRW urges Kuwait to drop charges against Mulla 10:35 & 23:38 40 PAGES NO: 16401 150 FILS

By B Izzak and Agencies

2-year passport KUWAIT: Oil Minister Ali Al-Omair yesterday reiterated IN TOP that the government has no intention of reversing a validity needed decision to raise the prices of diesel, kerosene and avia- tion fuel, but kept the door open for negotiations with for first iqama MPs for a compromise. The minister told reporters that FORM! the government’s resolve on prices does not prevent it KUWAIT: A security source said that iqama affairs from negotiating a proposal by several MPs to suspend departments have received instructions not to issue the increase temporarily and start implementing it on a residency visa to any person who enters the coun- April 1. try for the first time whose passport validity is less The decision to scrap subsidies for the three fuels than two years. The source said that this decision was taken in October and implemented at the start of became active Sunday, adding that it applies to all the new year. A large number of MPs strongly objected those who want iqamas, be it the government, pri- to the implementation after the hike in diesel and vate companies, domestic helpers, etc. kerosene prices led to an increase in the prices of a The source said there an awareness campaign number of products and services. Several MPs even will be launched in a few days about enforcing arti- called on the government to reverse the decision. cle 15 of the law that links the iqama period with Omair’s statements came on the eve of an expected the validity of the passport, which means the iqama debate called by a number of MPs to discuss the conse- validity will not exceed passport validity. The source quences of raising the prices of diesel and kerosene. The said the decision aims at sparing expats from hav- debate request was filed last week. The minister said the ing new violations, as no iqama will be granted to responsibility of the government is to prevent any cor- an expat whose passport’s validity is less than one ruption or exploitation of these products. A number of full year, in order to protect the expat and national diesel smuggling cases are currently before the public security after discovering forgeries in 7,000 Syrian prosecution, said the minister, adding that besides passport renewals. The source said those who want smuggling, the issue has an economic aspect. an iqama for two years should have a passport valid Omair said that the finance minister amended the for two years and the same for those who want a ZURICH: Real Madrid and Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo smiles after receiving the 2014 FIFA Ballon decision to raise the prices of diesel and kerosene from one-year iqama. — Al-Qabas d’Or award for player of the year during a ceremony at the Kongresshaus yesterday. — AFP (See Page 20) Continued on Page 13 Debate on free expression rages Erdogan blasts Netanyahu for ‘daring’ to attend rally HONG KONG: Blanket news coverage varying degrees - have said the maga- around the world of the Charlie Hebdo zine was wrong to publish cartoons lam- Potential shale massacre, culminating in Sunday’s huge pooning Islam. But others in the West march in Paris, is increasingly laced with have voiced their own unease with oil, gas reserves debate among opinion-makers about unequivocal support for the publication’s the limits of free expression and the right often controversial stances. “The mes- found in Kuwait to offend. The immediate aftermath of sage was clear... that what is at stake is the attack, which saw Islamist gunmen not merely the right of people to draw KUWAIT: An unofficial specialized study has shown storm the offices of the satirical French what they wish but that, in the wake of a potential existence of shale oil in Kuwait, as there weekly and leave 12 dead, saw countless the murders, what they drew should be are 23 calcareous clay layers expected to be a posts on social media in which Twitter celebrated and disseminated,” Teju Cole source of shale oil and gas, an expert said. and Facebook users voiced solidarity wrote of the victims of last week’s Comparing these layers with the layers of Eagle with the hashtag #JeSuisCharlie, or “I am assault. But, he added in the New Yorker, Ford shale in the US, a large amount of reserves of Charlie”. “just because one condemns their brutal shale gas is expected to be found in Kuwait, said Publications in Russia, China, Malaysia murders doesn’t mean one must con- Head of Al-Sharq Petroleum Consulting Company TABUK, Saudi Arabia: Saudi men make a snowman in the Aleghan Heights, locat- and elsewhere - countries that have been done their ideology”. ed some 1,500 km northwest of the Saudi capital Riyadh, on Jan 10, 2015 after a Abdul-Samea Behbehani. criticised for suppressing free speech to Continued on Page 13 heavy snow storm hit parts of the Middle East. — AFP Behbehani pointed out that Saudi Arabia is cur- rently developing five experimental wells of shale gas in the Ghawar field and in other fields near its border with Jordan. But Behbehani admitted that Saudi cleric condemns the process is facing challenges. Oil shale is an organic-rich fine-grained sedimentary rock contain- anti-Islamic snowmen ing kerogen (a solid mixture of organic chemical compounds) from which liquid hydrocarbons called shale oil can be produced. Qatar pulls risqué perfume Behbehani said shale oil well production contin- ues up to five years, indicating global production by DUBAI/DOHA: A prominent Saudi cleric want which does not have a soul, includ- 2020 is expected to reach 12 trillion cu ft. The cost has whipped up controversy by issuing a ing trees, ships, fruits, buildings and so of producing a shale oil barrel is between $30-$40, religious ruling forbidding the building of on,” he wrote in his ruling. That provoked down from $60-$70 before the current drop in oil snowmen, described them as anti- swift responses from Twitter users writing prices, he said. “Some countries have announced Islamic. Asked on a religious website if it in Arabic and identifying themselves with the discovery of large quantities of shale gas. China was permissible for fathers to build snow- Arab names. “They are afraid for their tops these countries with 1,115 trillion cu ft, fol- men for their children after a snowstorm faith of everything ... sick minds,” one lowed by Argentina (808 trillion cu ft), Algeria (707 in the country’s north, Sheikh Twitter user wrote. trillion cu ft) and the US (655 trillion cu ft) as well as Mohammed Saleh Al-Munajjid replied: “It Another posted a photo of a man in other countries like Canada, Mexico, Australia, is not permitted to make a statue out of formal Arab garb holding the arm of a snow, even by way of play and fun.” “snow bride” wearing a bra and lipstick. South Africa, Russia and Brazil,” he said. Quoting from Muslim scholars, Sheikh “The reason for the ban is fear of sedition,” As for reserves of shale oil, he pointed out that Munajjid argued that to build a snowman he wrote. A third said the country was Russia has announced the discovery of 75 billion POITIERS, France: Worshippers remove building material at the mosque in this was to create an image of a human being, plagued by two types of people: “A peo- barrels, the US 58 billion barrels, China 32 billion city in west-central France following an arson attack yesterday. The fire is an action considered sinful. “God has giv- ple looking for a fatwa (religious ruling) barrels, Argentina 27 billion barrels and Libya 26 bil- believed to have been started in reprisal to the attack against the French satiri- en people space to make whatever they Continued on Page 13 lion barrels. — KUNA cal magazine Charlie Hebdo on Jan 7.— AFP ‘Muslim’ Birmingham IS hackers seize US Centcom accounts WASHINGTON: US Central Command sus- Command, located in Tampa, Florida, oversees remark draws mockery pended its Twitter page yesteray after a group the US-led air war against the group in Iraq declaring sympathy for Islamic State jihadists and Syria and other American forces in the LONDON: A Fox News commentator’s “What he should do is look at Birmingham hacked its social media accounts and posted Middle East. The hacking of CENTCOM’s social remark about the British city of and see what a fantastic example it is of internal documents. In an embarrassing prop- media accounts came as President Barack Birmingham being “totally Muslim” was bringing people together of different aganda jab at the American military, a black- Obama was delivering a speech on cyber widely mocked on Twitter yesterday, faiths, different backgrounds,” he said. and-white banner with the image of a hooded security. while Prime Minister David Cameron Emerson later apologized, saying it fighter and the words “CyberCaliphate” and “I It was unclear if the hacking represented a called the expert a “complete idiot”. was a “beautiful city” and announcing that love you ISIS” replaced Central Command’s genuine threat to sensitive computer net- Security analyst Steven Emerson said he would make a donation to standard Twitter banner. “We can confirm that works, Pentagon officials said. US officials said Sunday that “non-Muslims just simply Birmingham Children’s Hospital. The apol- the US Central Command Twitter and YouTube they were investigating the effect of the cyber don’t go in” to the city, during a discussion ogy itself was soon the butt of jokes - accounts were compromised earlier today. We hack but it appeared no classified documents of multiculturalism in Britain after last despite a makeover, even the city’s sup- are taking appropriate measures to address were posted by the hackers. The hacked week’s Paris attacks. “When I heard this, I porters struggle to love some of its the matter,” a defense official told AFP. Twitter feed posted a phone directory of offi- choked on my porridge and I thought it remaining 1960s high-rise buildings and The CyberCaliphate “is already here, we are cers, which looked to be slightly out of date, as must be April Fool’s Day. This guy is clearly urban motorways. in your PCs, in each military base,” the hackers well what appeared to be personal photos tak- a complete idiot,” Cameron told ITV News. Continued on Page 13 wrote on the seized Twitter feed before it was en by troops and some power point slides taken down. The military’s powerful Central related to North Korea and China. — AFP TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 LOCAL Crime Report MoI won’t intervene to Maid accuses sponsor of rape shut religious centers

KUWAIT: A Filipina woman accused her sponsor of raping By Ben Garcia zations hold their activities in residential her several times in a flat were she was held in Fahaheel. A areas for shortage of places of worship. security source said a citizen took the Filipina from a labor KUWAIT: The Ministry of Interior will not Bishop Camillo Ballin said the Catholic office to a Fahaheel flat, and as soon as they arrived he intervene to shut down religious centers Church needs new land to build a new raped her. The woman managed to escape to Fahaheel and charitable societies in residential church. “Our numbers are very large, and police station and told them what happened. Police are areas, the ministry spokesman told the present premises are not enough to investigating. Kuwait Times yesterday. Adel Al-Hashash accommodate us all. If a stampede occurs, said the interior ministry is not aware of hundreds will die,” he warned. “We only any decision by the ministry of housing want to pray,” he told Kuwait Times. Drunk duo caught on the matter. “Such an issue may be There are other Christian sects in Police found a citizen and his Iraqi girlfriend drunk related to the municipality,” he added. Kuwait including Evangelicals, Anglicans in a car on Wafra road. A police patrol noticed the car The ministry of housing affairs has and Coptic and Orthodox denominations. being driven erratically, so they forced the driver to allegedly ordered religious and charitable Christians are recognized by the state and pull over and found the couple had two liquor bottles organizations in residential areas to are allowed to conduct their religious ritu- with them. Both were arrested and will be sent to con- vacate or face eviction, according to als and obligations, but only at their des- cerned authorities. reports in the local media quoting ignated places of worship. The Holy Minister of Housing Yasser Abul. “We are Family Cathedral in Kuwait City, the Angry driver not taking any action in the present time National Evangelical Church, also in A policeman stopped a citizen on Fifth Ring Road for since the housing ministry has not con- Kuwait City, an Orthodox compound in using a mobile phone while driving. When the policeman tacted us yet. But if it wants us to get Hawally, the Armenian Church in Salmiya was writing him a ticket, he became very angry and swore involved or needs our help, we are ready,” and Anglican and Catholic churches in at him. The citizen then took the citation book and tore it Hashash noted. Ahmadi are some of the recognized before escaping. The suspect is being sought. Some churches and charitable organi- Christian places of worship in Kuwait. The Catholic Church in Kuwait.

Domestic violence A citizen told Ahmadi police that she was beaten by her husband, who became furious when she refused Energy topics dominate to take out a bank loan of KD 15,000. Police are investi- gating.

Drug possession cabinet meeting Andalus police station officer Lt Dhari Al-Enezi noticed a man in his car in the station’s parking lot. When asked why he was there, he seemed nervous. When he was searched, an envelope of shabu was found. The suspect was sent to Kuwait government ‘strongly condemns’ Paris attack narcotics authorities. —Al-Rai KUWAIT: Al-Zour refinery’s biofuel program, the closure of Shinzo Abe inviting His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah the Shuaiba refinery, and the strategic alternatives to the Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to attend the 3rd World Kuwait Petroleum International (Q8) refinery in Europort Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction next March in were amongst energy topics dominating the weekly meet- Japan. ing of the cabinet held yesterday. A letter from British Prime Minister David Cameron to Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Sheikh Mohammad His Highness the Amir on the British government’s priori- Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah said that the meeting, ties for 2015, and preparations for the Vaccine Alliance chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber (GAVI) conference in Berlin, Germany, this month were dis- Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, was briefed by Minister of Oil cussed during the cabinet meeting, said Sheikh and Minister of State for National Assembly Affairs Dr Ali Mohammad. Al-Omair on the energy-related topics. The cabinet also welcomed the recent visit by Bahraini Sheikh Mohammad added that Al-Omair informed the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al-Khalifa to cabinet about strategies to provide power stations with Kuwait, affirming the strong brotherly relations linking low-sulfur fuel and using Shuaiba refinery’s fuel tanks to Kuwait and Bahrain, said the minister. store biofuel products. On the subject of the Zakat House board members, Terrorist attack Sheikh Mohammad said that the cabinet approved Meanwhile, Kuwait strongly condemned the “terrorist” appointment of Shereda Al-Muosherji, Mohammad Al- attack that took place in Paris recently killing and wound- Mukhaizeem, Jameel Abdulrazzaq Al-San’e, Mohammad Al- ing several civilians and servicemen. The government of Hbeshi, and Khawla Al-Hasawi as board members for a Kuwait “condemns this despicable criminal act, and reiter- period of three years. ates rejection to terrorism regardless of its forms, reasons The scene after the fire was put out The minister said that the cabinet’s preparation for the and justifications,” Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs upcoming session of the National Assembly were dis- Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah Al-Sabah said in a statement cussed during the meeting. following the cabinet meeting. Mother, son killed He said the religion or Islam and Islamic teachings were World conference opposing these “criminal acts.” Paris has witnessed violent KUWAIT: His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber in camp inferno The Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs said that the actions that claimed lives of 17 people, amongst them 12 Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah chairs the cabinet meet- cabinet took note of a letter by Japanese Prime Minister in an attack against the Charlie Hebdo newspaper. —KUNA ing yesterday. — KUNA photo By Hanan Al-Saadoun

KUWAIT: A Filipina woman and her three-year-old Kuwaiti son were burned to death by a fire in a camp on Meysan Partners launches Nuwaiseeb road. The fire department received a call short- ly after midnight about the blaze, but firemen found the first Middle East office charred bodies of the woman and her son. The fire also spread to two parked cars. Investigations are underway to KUWAIT: Meysan Partners, a law firm our growth strategy, we will however determine the cause of fire. Fire authorities asked citizens specializing in Bank Finance and maintain a ratio of associates to partners and expats to follow safety and security procedures in Restructuring, Capital Markets, Mergers that is significantly below that of other camps and houses, as temperatures are go down and use and Acquisitions, Project Development firms in the region, focusing on matters of various heaters increase. and Finance, and Dispute Resolution, that require the experience of our part- has today announced the launch of its ners, particularly on cross-border Drug possession first office in the Gulf region located in regional transactions and high-stakes Narcotics officers arrested an expatriate with three kilo- Kuwait. Established by its Senior commercial litigation.” grams of marijuana and nine joints. The arrest was made Partners, Abdulaziz A Al-Yaqout and following tips about the suspect, who told officers that he Bader A El-Jeaan, the practice will be Highest quality trades in drugs. He was sent to concerned authorities. comprised initially of five lawyers with Abdulaziz Al Yaqout, Senior Partner, Meanwhile, a collision between a motorcycle ridden by a the intention to grow to a team of 20 added: “We recognized a gap in the mar- bedoon and a car driven by a female citizen led to the dis- lawyers by the end of 2015 and to open ket for high-quality, regional legal covery of narcotic pills with the bedoon while doctors were a network of offices across the region in advice, led by a senior team with in- treating him. In the meantime, Hawally police arrested a the next five years. Meysan aims to dif- depth experience advising clients in the citizen for using drugs, and found 175 Captagon pills on ferentiate itself as a regional law firm by Middle East. Our unswerving focus will him. He was sent to the narcotics department. offering unrivalled levels of expertise be on providing the highest quality of and client service in the Middle East by a advice combined with unrivalled levels Unlicensed firearm team of highly experienced Arabic and of client service to support our clients in Loud music led to the arrest of a citizen in possession of English speaking lawyers. With over 35 achieving their respective objectives.” an unlicensed firearm and seven rounds. He was sent to combined years in the region, the firm’s Abdulaziz Al-Yaqout has extensive criminal detectives. partners have significant experience at experience of capital markets transac- international law firms and have advised tions in Kuwait and across the Middle Suicide attempt clients across a range of industry sectors East including IPOs and public take- A young man who had a criminal record was arrested on some of the most noteworthy and overs, as well as capital markets compli- for attempted suicide at his family’s house in Sulaibiya. 100 kg rotten complex transactions in the region. ance matters. He has also advised on a Meanwhile, a 25-year-old Kuwaiti died of a drug overdose. number of capital markets and corpo- Unrivalled advice rate regulations, including co-authoring Man lured to trap Its client list to date already includes the Kuwait Companies Law. In Andalus, a young man was stabbed in a public park, meat destroyed some of the largest regional blue-chip Bader El-Jeaan was previously Senior after a girl he knows asked him to go there, where he was companies and family groups, multina- Executive Officer and General Counsel met by six men who beat and stabbed him and took his By Hanan Al-Saadoun affairs department, he said the case is with tional corporations, international finan- MENA at The Carlyle Group, one of the mobile phone. The victim said he can identify two of the the public prosecution, and “we should cial institutions, sovereign governments world’s largest private equity firms. He suspects. KUWAIT: Mubarakiya Municipality center wait until a decision is made”, adding that and their agencies, domestic corpora- has extensive experience in mergers and launched a wide-ranging campaign that he has full confidence in Kuwait’s judiciary. tions and financial institutions, as well as acquisitions, international joint ventures resulted in destroying 100 kg of meat unfit He said talks are ongoing with the high net worth individuals. and strategic alliances, and project for human consumption and issuance of National Assembly in order to amend law Senior Partner Bader El-Jeaan, said, development and finance transactions, 10 citations for employing workers before 5/2005 which regulates the work of the “Meysan Partners intends to offer an including advising on the Sulaibiya receiving a license from the municipality, municipality, and it will relieve the munici- unrivalled level of advice to our clients Wastewater Project in Kuwait, the first health conditions, general hygiene and pality from a big burden. Subaih warned in the Middle East. We have quickly BOT in the State of Kuwait (Winner of trading in goods harmful to public health. traders in spoiled food, saying “we will established a strong and enviable client Project Finance Magazine’s Middle East Director General of Kuwait Municipality continue confronting them with the law list in Kuwait and our plan is to grow the Water Deal of the Year for 2002). Ahmad Al-Subaih said corruption at the without any forgiveness”. He said the firm in the next five years so that we The firm’s Kuwait office will be locat- municipality has dropped significantly, camp licensing experiment succeeded establish a network of offices around the ed at the Al Hamra Tower in Kuwait City and used Audit Bureau reports to prove very well and encouraged to continue region to further support our clients. In and will officially open in January 2015. this. About a forgery case at the financial with it. KRCS delivers urgent aid to Syrian refugees

BEIRUT/KUWAIT/AMMAN: The Kuwait Red Crescent that they are keen to deliver aid to as many refugees Latest statistics show that Syrian refugees in Society (KRCS) yesterday launched a campaign to dis- as possible. Amid the tragic conditions of the Lebanon exceeded a million, most of them in the tribute aid on the Syrian refugees in Lebanon, aiming refugees in Lebanon, Enezi urged Kuwaiti people to Beqaa, Akkar district, Tripoli and other northern to alleviate their sufferings amid the severe cold wave positively respond to a fund-raising campaign for regions. KRCS embarked on a campaign to raise funds hitting the region. The urgent aid will be extended to Syrians launched by the KRCS at home yesterday. and aid for the Syrian refugees in Syria’s neighboring the refugees in the Beqaa, as the freezing weather Meanwhile, head of the Lebanese Red Cross for the countries. Donations are received at the Society’s conditions aggravated their plight, KRCS head envoy north region Youssef Boutros, today highlighted headquarters. The campaign will carry on as long as in Lebanon Musaed Al-Enezi said. Kuwait’s humanitarian efforts to help Syrian refugees people interact with it, KRCS Director for Public The urgent aid comprises blankets, winter clothes, in the country. In particular, he emphasized the per- Relations and Media Khalid Al-Zaid said in press The suspect caught with possession of marijuana heaters and amounts of diesel, Enezi added, noting sistent efforts by the KRCS. remarks.—KUNA TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 LOCAL Shabek: social media training program announced Deriving the maximum benefit from social media

By Nawara Fattahova new horizons to education and invent job bring him job offers,” stressed Nahid. opportunities that will positively develop the KUWAIT: One hundred young applicants will community,” Nahid said. Benefiting from social media have the opportunity to participate in a first- Sheikha Al-Zain Al-Sabah, Undersecretary of-its-kind social media training program in Social initiative of the Ministry of State for Youth Affairs, Kuwait. ‘Shabek’ is an initiative by the Social Shabek is also a social initiative. “It’s a first- praised the initiative. “Shabek aims to encour- Media Club (SMC) in cooperation with the of-its-kind training, employment and empow- age both public and private sectors to use ministry of state for youth affairs and the gov- ering initiative that aims to provide awareness social media and benefit from it in various KUWAIT: Minister of Social Affairs and Labor and Minister of State for Planning ernment manpower restructuring program. about social media and strengthen its role in fields. In fact, social media is the most used and Development Hind Al-Subaih (center) speaks at the seminar. — KUNA photo The interested applicants can register the community through training the youth on thing by young people, and through Shabek online on the youth ministry’s website. dealing with social media and online market- we aim to shift these skills into a job through “Applicants should be between 20 to 34 years ing. It should also teach them how to under- marketing the products of companies, for Oil prices fall won’t impact old, either having their own projects, working stand the rapid changes in this field and instance. I’m sure that a large number of applicants will register for this program,” she development plans: minister noted. According to Jamal Al-Sanousi, PR Manager at Kuwait Petroleum Co, rapid inter- KUWAIT: Financing of the projects of the budget, and it includes major projects such national developments and changes in the next national development plan will not be as the underground, completion of the job market need new skills and experiences, affected by falls of oil prices, Minister of Kuwait University, Jaber Hospital and envi- “which needs our cooperation to exploit the Social Affairs and Labor and Minister of ronmental fuel, she noted. various opportunities offered by social media, State for Planning and Development Hind On yesterday’s dialogue, Subaih said online marketing and digital media along Al-Subaih said. participants will exchange views on what with other modern technologies”. Half the financing of these projects will steps the government has to take. come from the local private sector, through Recommendations will be submitted to the Building the future partnership between it and the public sec- relevant authorities. Such seminars are to Fawzi Al-Majdali, Secretary General of the tor, Al-Subaih told reporters on the side- continue all through the year, the minister Government Manpower Restructuring lines of a development seminar that kicked pointed out. Program, highlighted the importance of the off yesterday. The seminar was held under Addressing the gathering, Advisor at the demographic addressed by Shabek. “Youth “Impact of oil prices falls on reality and Amiri Diwan, Youssef Al-Ibrahim, a former make up a huge percentage of our communi- future development in Kuwait.” Minister of Planning and Financing, ruled She said that enforcement of the privati- out any political dimension or a conspiracy ty and they carry the responsibility of building zation law is likely to boost participation of behind the decline of oil prices. He added the future and developing the community, so the private sector in economic activities, that the repercussions of the 2008 global we should support them,” he pointed out. noting that its executive regulation is not financial mayhem still throw negative shad- Alia Al-Natsha, General Manager of the being looked into by the relevant legal ows on oil prices. Ibrahim said the low price Jordan Center for Knowledge Building, said committee. According to the Minister, the rates will take toll on producer countries the training program will include many first annual plan of the mid-term 2015- that could be forced to resort to their important subjects. “The program will include 2016/2019/2020 will be submitted to the reserves accumulated over past years to building and directing the account of an insti- National Assembly today after being finance public projects and bridge any KUWAIT: (From left) Alia Al-Natsha, Jamal Al-Sanousi, Fawzi Al-Majdali, Sheikha Al-Zain Al- tution, updating with what’s new in the mod- approved by the cabinet and the Supreme potential budget deficit. Sabah, and Hind Al-Nahid pictured at the press conference. —Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat ern media and its tools, discussing issues in Council for Planning and Development last According to the Amiri Diwan Advisor, new media which the employer can benefit week. countries of the region have so far lost USD in the media or students in the field of infor- exploit job opportunities provided by social from, increasing the followers of the employ- 1.3 billion owing to the falling oil prices. He mation. A hundred applicants will be chosen media and online marketing. The applicants er’s account, publishing text content and mul- Major projects also noted that the state budget is the sub- to attend the program and priority will be giv- will be trained by best experts in the field,” she timedia through social media, managing dis- It is also the first plan to be referred to ject to huge pressure due to the decline in en to Kuwaitis,” CEO of SMC Hind Al-Nahid added. cussions and replying to followers, dealing the parliament before the 2015-2016 draft revenues. — KUNA said during a press conference yesterday. Shabek is geared towards young people. with the website during a crisis, measuring ‘Shabek’ means ‘connected to the Internet’ “According to a study by Office Team the achieved goals and its revenue on invest- in Arabic. “We came up with the name Agency, 36 percent of companies think that ments, improving and setting new strategies ‘Shabek’ as most young people are always paper CVs will be replaced with personal and others,” she explained. connected to the Internet and using it. The pages on social media, as the number of Shabek consists of three phases to provide program will provide training to the youth users of innovative ways to market them- a group of skilled trainees to work profession- about the benefits of social media and using it selves online is increasing. Some of them ally in the field of social media and online for the rapprochement of various categories have used video clips, Facebook pages and marketing. The first phase is the program, of the community. This program should also blogs where they say ‘employ me’, in addi- training, raising awareness and study. The sec- encourage both public and private sectors to tion to using the SlideShare website. These ond aims to provide field training to the par- use social media and derive the maximum promotional tactics may be effective, and ticipants, while the third should provide job benefit from it, open the news field, bring the user may even get popular, which may opportunities for the participants.

The students inside the hospital. KFAED-financed hospital treats 1.5 million patients in China

NINGXIA/CASABLANCA: Ningxia People’s Muslim Hui ethnic people who predominant- Hospital contributed in treating 1.5 million ly reside in the northwestern region. It pro- patients since its establishment three years vides courses in Arabic language, Islamic ago, Wang Wei, director of the KFAED- studies, literature and Chinese history, and financed facility said yesterday. The Hospital the Arab visitors were impressed with the cul- is located in the city of Yinchuan in the tural insight the centre offers into the faith of autonomous and Hui Muslims-populated Islam in China. region of Ningxia. Mohammad Dashti told KUNA he was The statement came on the sideline of the amazed by the Islamic inscriptions he had visit by Kuwaiti students as part of the annual witnessed throughout the building, while trip organized by KFAED (Kuwait Fund for Abdullatif Al-Mahmeed hailed the teaching Arab Economic Development) for Kuwaiti method applied at the centre in showcasing high school well-achievers with the aim to Islam through the Arabic language. familiarize them with the Fund’s activities and Meanwhile, Ministry of Education official projects in countries of operation in coopera- Mubarak Al-Otaibi applauded the trip as an Madiha Bouftain announced as Gulf tion with the Kuwaiti Ministry of Education. opportunity for the youngsters to get a first- “The Fund contributed in $34 million (41 hand view of different cultures. Bank’s Al Danah Millionaire winner percent) in financing the building of the Hospital,” Wei pointed out He added that Students visit Hassan II Mosque Hospital had a 2,630 bed capacity, with 97 Separately, a female delegation paid a visit KUWAIT: Gulf Bank announced Madiha submitted their details on Al Danah vouchers most eagerly anticipated draw event of the medical departments and 3,000 employees. to the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, the Abdulla Bouftain as the 2014 Al Danah distributed at the Al Danah booth from 4 PM - year. Gulf Bank’s General Manager of On their part, Kuwaiti students showcased largest mosque in the country and the sev- Millionaire at the climax of an evening of fes- 6 PM at the Grand Avenue that same evening; Consumer Banking, Vikram Issar, Salma Al- pride in their country’s contributions to enth largest in the world, as part of the “Be a tivity, marked with excitement and anticipa- they each were then awarded with KD500 Al Hajjaj, General Manager- Human Resources China, noting that the KFAED was always on Well-achiever” trip to Morocco, organized by tion. Hassan Ammar Jabr Ejeil and Bader Danah vouchers. and Meshari Shehab, Assistant General the vanguard when it came to aiding people the KFAED. The students toured surroundings Abdulaziz Al-Mutawa were the respective KD The Al Danah Millionaire Draw celebration, Manager, Consumer Banking at Gulf Bank worldwide. KFAED had been operating in and inside of the mosque, which was 250,000 and KD 50,000 Al Danah winners. The which was hosted by Hadeel Al Fadhli and along with the Ministry of Commerce China since 1982, carrying out 35 projects designed by the French architect Michel announcement of the winners was made at the guest of honor the renowned actor, Representative joined both Al-Fadhli and the worth $900 million in various fields. Pinseau. The trip is to concluded on January the Grand Avenue - The Avenues Mall on Mohammed Al Mansour, began with the special host Mohammed Al-Mansour on stage 17th. Completed in 1993, the mosque stands Thursday, 8th January 2015 in the presence of largest ever ‘flash mob’ performance to take to do the draw for the KD 1 million. The win- Islamic culture on a promontory looking out to the Atlantic, the Ministry of Commerce. place in Kuwait, which featured the Kuwaiti ner was caught totally off-guard when she On Sunday, A group of Kuwaiti high which can be seen through a gigantic glass Two additional raffle draws were held band ‘Miami’, and centered around the theme was called via a live telephone connection to schools students paid a visit to a cultural cen- floor with room for 25, 000 worshippers. A throughout the evening in which the winners of Kuwait’s heritage and history, a video of the tell her the good news to great cheers and tre in China’s autonomous Ningxia Hui region, further 80,000 can be accommodated in the during a trip organized by Kuwait Fund for mosque’s adjoining grounds for a total of were announced live on stage by Hadeel Al performance can be viewed on Gulf Bank’s applause from the crowds. An exciting 2015 Arab Economic Development. The honor stu- 105,000 worshippers present at any given Al Danah draw line-up was also announced Fadhli, Senior Manager at Gulf Bank. The first Youtube channel; www.youtube.com/Gu- dents were taken on a tour throughout the time. Minaret of the mosque is the world’s raffle draw included all those who submitted lfBankChannel. The performance surprised during the evening. For further information Institute of Hui Islamic Studies at Ningxia tallest at 210 meters. The KFAED-sponsored their details on an Al Danah Online-Sign up; 5 the massive audience in attendance and about the Al Danah account and prize draws, Academy of Social Sciences, which is distin- trip is held on annual basis and it had been winners were selected and each received a kicked off the festivities in an exciting fashion. visit one of Gulf Bank’s 58 branches, call the guished by its Islamic architecture. organized since 2010 with the aim to familiar- KD200 Al Danah voucher. The second raffle Al-Mansour and Al- Fadhli engaged the Customer Contact Center on 1805805, or go The structure, which provides cultural and ize distinguished Kuwaiti high schoolers with draw selected 8 winners from all those who crowds raising the excitement ahead of the online at www.e-gulfbank.com/aldanah. academic services to around 480 students, the Fund’s activities and projects in countries was built in 1962 and acts as a beacon for the of operation. — KUNA

YINCHUAN: The students in a group photo during their visit to Ningxia People’s Hospital in Yinchuan, Ningxia, China. — KUNA photos LOCAL TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015

Chief of the Court of Appeal Judge Mohammad Jassim Bin Naji Al-Qenae KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah takes the constitutional oath before during his meeting with governor of Najaf Adnan Al-Zurfi. — KUNA photos HH the Amir. Diwaniya owners in a group photo with His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Amir receives Iraq’s Najaf governor Diwaniya owners celebrate Sheikh Sabah’s honoring

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al- Jawad Ahmad Bu-Khamseen. Also yesterday, HH the Amir stitutional oath before HH the Amir. Meanwhile, HH the Amir presented Sheikh Sabah with a gift celebrating his achievement. Jaber Al-Sabah received at Seif Palace yesterday governor of the received at Minister of Justice, Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Yacoub received a number of Diwaniya “gathering hall” owners, who cel- HH the Amir thanked the Diwaniya owners for their sincere ges- Iraqi city of Najaf Adnan Al-Zurfi. The meeting was attended by Al-Sane, and the newly-appointed chief of the Court of Appeal ebrated the UN honoring of Kuwait as a Humanitarian Center ture.HH Sheikh Sabah also received Governor of the Central Deputy Amiri Diwan Minister Sheikh Ali Jarrah Al-Sabah and Judge Mohammad Jassim Bin Naji Al-Qenae who took the con- and HH Sheikh Sabah as a Humanitarian Leader. The owners Bank of Kuwait Dr Mohammad Al-Hashel. — KUNA Kuwait considering hosting third Syrian donors’ summit FM leads Arab delegation to support Lebanon

BEIRUT: A team of staff from Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development will be visiting Lebanon over the next two days to arrange support needed to face the burden of over one million Syrian refugees, a senior Kuwaiti official said yesterday. “Kuwait is giving this matter special significance and is seriously consider- ing hosting a third donor nations’ con- ference (for Syrians displaced within and outside of their country),” First Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al- Hamad Al-Sabah said at a joint press conference. Standing alongside Arab KUWAIT: His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al- League Secretary General Nabil Al- Sabah received yesterday former UK premier Tony Blair on the occasion of his visit to Araby and Lebanese counterpart Kuwait. The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Gebran Bassil, he stressed Arab sup- Mohammad Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah. — KUNA port of the territory and identity of Lebanon in the face of terrorism. After leading an Arab ministerial delegation - due to Kuwait’s current status as chair of the summit - which held talks with officials in Beirut, he BEIRUT: Lebanese Prime Minister Tammam Salam (right) meets Arab League Secretary General Nabil Al-Araby said the continuing outpouring of vio- (left) and Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah yesterday. — AP lence from Syria into Lebanon was also discussed. He expressed optimism this and support proceeds from the resolu- taken by Lebanon to address its chal- can do to help in maintaining would be resolved by the Arab and tions of the recent Arab summit in lenges. Condemning recent “criminal Lebanon’s security, stability and territo- international communities. For his part, Kuwait and other Arab ministerial acts” in Lebanon, he said this Arab rial integrity, fighting terrorism and Araby reiterated that there was Arab councils,” he told a news conference country is facing major challenges and boosting its economic growth. They consensus on supporting Lebanon. The following his meeting with his that’s why it needs help from Arab also exchanged views on key issues Arab League has set out a “comprehen- Lebanese counterpart. countries in line with relevant Arab res- and subjects on both regional and sive strategy” aimed at fighting terror- Such resolutions require following- olutions. He hoped that Lebanon’s international arenas. Mauritanian ism, which he said was for Arab nations up for implementation especially ones next president would be able to Minister of Foreign Affairs and to commit to. According to UN esti- bearing on Lebanon’s security and sta- attend the forthcoming Arab summit Cooperation Ahmed Ould Teguedi and mates, he said around 13 million bility as well as support for its military due in Cairo on March 28. Sheikh Arab League Secretary-General Nabil Syrians are suffering as a result of the and security agencies in their fight Sabah Al-Khaled noted that the Arab Al-Araby, as well as senior officials from conflict - nine million of them inside against terrorism, extremist groups ministerial team would report to Arab the League, Kuwait and Mauritania the country and four million in neigh- and Israeli ambitions, he said. He also foreign ministers about the outcomes were present in the talks. The visit came boring countries. pointed to Arab help in boosting of the visit to Lebanon. in implementation of an Arab League KUWAIT: National Assembly Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanem received at his office yes- Lebanon’s economic growth, and eas- Council resolution with the aim of terday head of the Korean-Kuwaiti parliamentary friendship committee and his Arab solidarity ing out burdens on Lebanon due to Lebanon’s security showing Arab solidarity with the accompanying delegation. The two sides discussed many common matters and Earlier, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled said hosting Syrian refugees. Sheikh Sabah The visiting Arab ministerial team Lebanese people and government, as means of promoting bilateral ties, especially the parliamentary ones. The meeting that the visiting Arab ministerial dele- Al-Khaled added that the Arab delega- also held talks with Lebanese Prime well as to support efforts on the politi- was attended by head of the economic and financial parliamentary committee and gation had conveyed a message of tion had also discussed with Lebanese Minister Tammam Saeb and Lebanese cal, economic and security level in head of the honorary mission MP Faisal Al-Shaya, as well as MPs Mohammad Tanna Arab solidarity with, and support for officials how the Arab League’s mem- Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, during order to maintain security and stability and Ahmad Al-Qudhaibi. — KUNA Lebanon. “The message of solidarity bers can provide more help to steps which they mulled what Arab countries of all Lebanese territories. — KUNA Piero Corsini, GM of Khorafi Business Machines: In the Era of Knowledge, the best is yet to come! By Piero Corsini General Manager Khorafi Business Machines • The Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, Mobility, and Cloud Computing are the main drivers of change (KBM) • Accurate disease diagnosis, near to perfect weather forecast, and more efficient crops production are in sight The best Is yet to come. increased number of human beings but all now, it has just been ‘too complicated!;But None can deny the tremendous impact that the things that you can think of and that are the future of accurate weather forecast is the INTERNET has brought to our way of part of our everyday life. It’s a scenario in coming very soon. doing business or to our social relationship which objects, animals or people are provid- and, in general, to our everyday life!. ed with unique identifiers and the ability to • Mobility: The major beneficiaries of the And yet we are entering a new era where transfer data over a network without requir- IoT and the Big Data will be each one of us, in we will experience an even deeper transfor- ing human-to-human or human-to-computer our business and in our, at large, social life. mation that will redefine, again, the way we interaction. Already in 2015 one ‘trillion ‘ of We will have devices more and more friendly live: things will be connected to Internet and this (and our current mobiles are a clear example number will reach 15 ‘trillion’ in a decade. in that directions) through which we will be IBM calls it: The Cognitive Era, the Era of From heart monitoring implants to biochip able to have correct answers to what we are Knowledge. transponders on farm animals, from automo- looking for wherever we are and in the way Knowledge will be the major resource that biles with built-in sensors to field operation we like. Nations will have in their hands to prosper devices that assist fire-fighters in search and and to insure high standard of living to their rescue, from smart thermostat systems and • Cloud Computing: Finally the predomi- citizens. Knowledge will be the strategic washer/dryers that utilize Wi-Fi for remote nant model in which these services will be resource similar to what ‘oil’ is today. It will be monitoring, from food to, potentially, every delivered will be the Cloud model. It’s a ‘utili- the engine of growth and progress, with one object will be connected to provide relevant ty’ model that allows to have the requested important difference versus ‘oil’: the more information to gain a deeper knowledge. services when it’s required and to pay on you use it ...... the more it gets bigger! actual usage. I’d like to make a comparison The ‘knowledge workers’ will be the ones And this can happen because every- Piero Corsini with the electricity. We switch on the light that will take advantage and prosper in this thing will be digitized! was unthinkable only few years ago. well ahead in time. We can even predict with when we need it; and we expect to have it; new Era; and they will chose to live in the • Big Data: Big data is the technology that This will revolutionize the way we live! outstanding accuracy what will be the traffic and we pay for what we use. We do not ask Countries where the use of the major sys- allows the analysis and consequent extrac- There will be breakthroughs in Healthcare on a road during the next hour and suggest where it is generated and by whom although tems, that interfere with everyday life , are tion of knowledge out of the overall digitised with close to perfect diagnosis and cure. alternatives to drivers. This ‘predictive’ analy- we may want to know because we need a effective. Healthcare, Public Safety, Security, world that the IoT will make available. Today, There will be accurate predictions on short- sis should not sound as something magic; it’s reliable provider that will always satisfy our Transportation, Utilities, Education, Business in the Information Technology, we are mostly age or abundance of food based on close to based on rock science. I’d like to always take variable needs. The Cloud Computing model Environment and joined-up Government dealing with Data that are structured and perfect weather forecasting and related con- the example of the weather forecasting. Since is similar. It delivers our required and agreed Services are the major macro-systems that well defined. The Big Data technologies go sequences on the crops so that we can put the origin of the human being, we’ve always upon services ‘on demand’ coping with our have to be implemented by the “effective well beyond since they are dealing with the appropriate actions. We will be able to pre- grown up knowing that ‘the weather is variable needs and different useful devices. Governments”. wider spectrum of the unstructured data dict food consumption and move to-be-wast- unpredictable’ and we do not get upset when Service providers have to make sure that they such as social media blogs , Object signals ed food, on time, where it is needed(today up the weather forecasting news do not get it! In will always satisfy what we need with solid, Let’s now have a look to the major driv- and so on that constitute more than 90% of to 40% of produced food is wasted). There reality the weather is regulated by physical always on, and secure systems and services. ers that will make the above scenario hap- the digital information versus today struc- will be accurate predictions related to demo- laws and what’s will happen in a place at a In conclusion, if we think we have being pen: tured data. Thanks to these technologies, we graphics dynamics in a Country as well as certain time is very certain and thus pre- already heavily affected by the Internet, well, • Internet of Things (IoT). The Internet of will be able to analyse and extract knowledge shortage or abundance of skills and ,very dictable if you can get the right knowledge it’s not over; the coming future will connect not only from an immense number of information that importantly, take proactive corrective actions out of the right huge relevant data. Up to ‘the best is yet to come’!! TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 LOCAL In Brief Barghash’s membership Rumors denied Vertical housing KUWAIT: Members of the majority bloc and former KUWAIT: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of KUWAIT: Housing Minister Yasser Abul disclosed MP Faisal Al-Mislem denied that Abdullah Al- Commerce and Industry, Abdulmohsen Al-Mudej strongly that the Housing Authority has suspended the ver- Bargash’s membership in the bloc was canceled after denied social media reports about losing his mobile phone tical housing project for the time being for further his citizenship was revoked. His statement came during a meeting with Egyptian President Abdelfatah Al- studying. He also stressed that the government after leading oppositionist and former parliament Sisi and the Egyptian media delegation. “This is a silly and was keen on solving the housing problem, adding speaker Ahmad Al-Saadoun stated that Barghash’s childish rumor that aims at damaging the Kuwaiti-Egyptian that the housing authority had recently distributed membership was terminated for legal reasons. relations”, Mudej underlined in a call-in with an Egyptian TV 8,000 new housing units according to the plan, Mislem urged fellow oppositionists to avoid conflicts station. He pointing out that he looks forward to attending while more would yet be distributed according to “which make corrupt people happy.” — Al-Jarida the economic forum in Egypt.—Al-Watan schedule. — Al-Jarida Photo of the day

KUWAIT: Overhead power lines tower over an open area located south of Kuwait. Campers are warned to avoid using similar areas in order to avoid the risk of exposure to high voltage current. The camping season concludes on March 31, 2015. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat NUKS USA recognizes Zain’s support Delegates visit Zain offices in appreciation of recent sponsorship

KUWAIT: The National Union of nized Zain’s exceptional support as held in San Francisco during main intention behind the compa- Kuwaiti Students in the United a Platinum sponsor of the Union’s November. ny’s support to NUKS USA for the States (NUKS USA) recently recog- 31st annual conference that was A NUKS USA delegation visited past 11 years. the company’s main headquarters As in previous years, Zain took in Shuwaikh whereby they met the opportunity to recognize and Zain Group Chairman Assad Ahmad honor the top 15 Kuwaiti students Al Banwan and Zain Kuwait Chief studying in the US during a Gala Executive Officer Omar Saud Al dinner that the company spon- Omar and expressed their gratitude sored as part of the conference, to Zain’s continuous support to the with the aim of shedding light on annual conference, implementing accomplishments of leading stu- the important role of the private dents. The company also organized sector’s contribution to supporting several activities for students; as the Kuwaiti youth locally and well as sponsoring a sports sympo- abroad. sium in which prominent Kuwaiti Reciprocally the Chairman and sports figures discussed issues rele- Kuwait CEO expressed their admira- vant to the domestic sporting tion of the tremendous efforts scene. Additionally Zain sponsored exerted by the union’s members, several sporting activities held in resulting in a greatly successful conjunction with the event, where event that witnessed vast participa- it honored the winning teams of tion from students studying the US. “Zain Football Tournament”, which Zain’s annual participation in Zain sponsored for the second con- NUKS USA reinforces the company’s secutive year. The tournament was commitment to the youth of a way to engage with youth and Kuwait and its desire to see them share a family-like atmosphere with reach their full potential. This is the the students. Canada woos investors at Horeca

KUWAIT: The commercial counselor and agricultural exports to Kuwait grew to $20 senior trade commissioner at the Canadian million last year. Ames noted that Embassy to Kuwait Tammy Canadian exports to Ames stressed the impor- Kuwait were mainly food- tance of enforcing trade stuff, including dairy cooperation with Kuwait for products, ice cream, pota- the best of both peoples. to chips, vegetables, Ames also stressed that the grains, cereals, wheat, Canadian embassy would lentils and seafood. Ames take part in the Horeca 2015 pointed that the trade exhibition in order to boost commissioner service cooperation between center serves Kuwaiti Kuwaiti and Canadian com- companies seeking spe- panies and pave the way for cific Canadian products further investment, especial- and services as well as ly in view of the good reputa- find strategic investment tion and high quality partners within Canada. Canadian products enjoy. Finally, Ames highlighted Ames added that cooper- Tammy Ames that Canadian companies ation between both coun- provide high quality prod- tries had remarkably grown over the past ucts at competitive prices within the few years and that the value of Canadian Kuwait market. TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 LOCAL

kuwait digest Al-Jarida kuwait digest Which is more The need for useful to Islam? implementation

By Sami Al-Nisf By Dr Shamlan Al-Essa

edia icon Ahmed Al-Shoqairi did well by ocial Affairs and Labor and Planning Minister Hind Al- responding to those who shed blood and Subaih said the ministry has completed its study to priva- Mdefame Islam every time a ribald or a Stize cooperatives. We are used to such optimistic state- spiteful person makes a mistake, by using Quranic ments, as all previous government plans concentrated on verses and examples from the Prophet’s (PBUH) diversifying sources of national income and working on attract- traditions. The Prophet (PBUH) never responded to ing direct foreign investment and motivating partnership people ridiculing Islam by killing them. The funny between the private sector with the foreign investor and work thing is that not a single response was made by on transforming the country into an international financial and iconic Muslim scholars. So if they didn’t know commercial center. The plans also concentrate on aspects of privatization, restructuring, reducing state expenditure and these verses exist in the Quran and kept silent, this others. We have repeatedly stressed the government’s steps to would be a calamity, and it would be even a privatize cooperatives as they are full of corruption and wasta, greater one if did know them! FOR but our problem in Kuwait is that we talk too much and do very By the beginning of the 1990s, a major secular SALE little in implementing this talk. Since the days of the late Ahmad state and a mighty nuclear power - the Soviet Al-Duaij and the planning council, the talk was revolving Union - fell apart. Our scholars and Muslim youth around transforming Kuwait into an open commercial and eco- could have made use of that incident and launch nomic center, diversify income sources, reduce dependence on campaigns from Grozny, capital of Chechnya, to expat labor and review the population structure. The question promote and spread Islam amongst a secular peo- is why all government plans are not fulfilled, and did not see ple who had abandoned all religions for decades. daylight for more than 60 years? And very few of them are The largest of Muslim countries like Indonesia and implemented. Nigeria were not conquered by war - they were Kuwait, before working with the government plans, was In my view number one in everything and we were ahead of the Gulf opened to Islam by good words and setting good countries, and the reason goes back to the efficacy of the pri- examples. Talking about corruption vate sector and openness of the state before the flow of oil and Instead, our extreme youth went to provoke the state’s monopoly over wealth and power. Today we are at Chechnyan people urging them to secede and the bottom because of the continued dominance of the state launch terrorist attacks in Moscow and Grozny that By Ahmad Al-Sarraf over the economy and its monopolizing of everything, which alienated Russia and made them hate Islam and means that we have an authority that is beyond absolute, and a also destroy Chechnya. Nowadays, their youth are he most dangerous thing for any regime or some seniors. It was notable when the authority society that is more than inept. repaying this by contributing in wars destroying establishment, even commercial ones, is corrup- approved the founding law of an authority to fight The question is do we have the political and societal will for our countries and Russia is standing against revo- Ttion. This does not exist and spread without the corruption, but the issue was not free of mistakes, change and reform? And is there a possibility to correct the lutions that have been stolen by their extreme knowledge of the authority or administration as part because its chairman is the minister of justice, and he defects practically, especially after the drop in oil prices? enemies! of it or participating in it, or by inaction. Misuse of according to the law along with his colleagues and Everything is possible in the presence of clear and strong politi- For the other major power, the US, the power through manipulating the funds of state members of the rest of the authorities are subject to cal will to carry out the required change. American people are known to be generally reli- always leads to the collapse of any regime. Keeping the supervision of this system. So how can the minis- As long as the government has an absolute belief in the continuation of the welfare state principle which does not gious and easily adaptable to conversion. This was silent towards bribes and thefts and taking advantage ter be the chairman of a system that oversees his of posts and stealing the state’s funds, keeping silent behavior? So it is necessary for the authority’s internal impose taxes or fees on its citizens. Rather, contrary to the rest done by creating Christian Zionism, for instance. of the world, it pays them in a country of taxless economic pros- Instead of using his expertise in building an towards the crimes of some seniors and their relatives rules to prevent the minister from interfering in its and applying the law on the weak all lead to the technical affairs. perity and employs citizens in all state establishments and min- Islamic tower to match the World Trade Center, and abyss. The major financial scandal that we wrote about a istries despite the lack of need for them. This is a political bribe instead of using planes to move from one state to Although corruption exists in all countries, it is few days ago was actually simmering since a few for citizens to get their loyalty. We have a government that another across the US to spread and advocate more widespread in poor countries and dictatorships, years in the Cabinet and in the meetings of the social monopolizes the authority and state resources including public Islam amongst a spiritually-thirsty people, an and private parties in exchange for the government’s commit- or rich countries that lack supervisory systems and security’s board of directors. And despite the commit- extremely wealthy Muslim architect known as ment to employing citizens and offering them all services. deterrent laws. If we look at Kuwait, we will find that it tees that were formed to consider the accusations, This, in turn, led to the emergence of a dependent, unable Osama bin Laden hijacked civilian aircrafts, blew is nearly the easiest to rule in the entire world, and it final reports were in many instances ignored or lost buildings and killed thousands of innocent people society that receives all these services as a gift from the state in was assumed, as far as logic is concerned, to be the with every ministerial change or a new finance minis- exchange for keeping silent towards rights of citizenry and the in the name of Islam. least corrupt country as the number of mosques and ter. The large drop in state revenues will automatically Defaming Islam continued by encouraging importance of the citizens’ effective role in running the coun- worship places is very large and does complain of real be followed by an increase in the frequency of corrup- try’s affairs. The real problem is in having the government con- Muslim minorities to rebel and demand secession, poverty nor shortage of supervisory and accountabili- tion and bribes to pass illegal transactions, so in turn trol state resources including oil, while it continues the policy of which created many problems with other religions, ty systems or deterrent laws. So it is very difficult to the mission of the anti-corruption authority will be squandering and expenditure without the need for imposing sects and races. The sad thing is that those who imagine a logical reason for all this corruption other very difficult, if it is even allowed to work and not just taxes and fees, as ministers affirm everyday that wages and encouraged and provoked them against their own than the link of some seniors interests with it, and it be a powerless authority and if its administration is of salaries will not change, and that there is no problem with the home countries from the comfort of their own was not strange to have this semi-official push in the the required level! Because some talk has begun budget deficit as long as the state and members of parliament ‘houses’ are the ones currently shedding ‘crocodile direction of favoring personal interests over public about some of its leaders and their histories, and their believe that we are a rich country and has future generations to tears’ for the tragedies they are suffering. If only ones. Kuwait’s history has seen a large number of cor- violations in appointing their relatives without com- control it as it wishes. they had not provoked them, or wept! rupt people, but the phenomenon now includes low- petency tests. Will our goal to have the required social and economic —Translated by Kuwait Times from Al-Anbaa er-rank officials after at one point being limited to — Translated by Kuwait Times from Al-Qabas reform be fulfilled? — Translated by Kuwait Times from Al-Watan

letters to Muna The West nurtured terrorism, now suffers

By Basel Al-Jasser

here were four terrorist attacks in the Afghanistan, which led to forming the Taleban West in just a few days - one in Sydney and Al-Qaeda terrorist organizations. A few Tand three in Paris. I see this as a start and years ago, they supported and executed the that terrorist attacks will expand, get more so-called ‘Arab Spring’, which I know was plot- complicated, more destructive and include ted by the Freemasons and executed by the most Western countries. West with the aim of bringing the Brotherhood The West had, and still nurtures, Islamic radi- (the allies of all radicals) to power in Muslim calism, providing it with excuses, providing its countries. advocates and thinkers with safe havens, Therefore, Gaddafi was toppled by force, places to operate and logistic support. The Libya turned into a battlefield for terrorists, West supports the Zionist entity at the expense Syrian borders were opened to all kinds of ter- of international legitimacy, rights and justice, rorists after the Syrian regime resisted their and thus deprived over a billion Muslims of ‘Spring’ and this includes IS, Nusra Front, Ansar their first qibla Jerusalem over 50 years ago, Sharia and others. The calamity is that the West which helped launch the first radical move- still supports these terrorist organizations in ment in modern history - the Muslim the East and only incriminates them in its own Brotherhood, that only gained power by countries. It has been proven that the Zionist addressing people’s entity supports the feelings and aspira- Though the majority of con- Nusra Front and that tion to liberate Turkey supports IS, Jerusalem. It was temporary Muslim scholars and since they both through this move- are strong allies of ment and its godfa- and their ancestors through- the West, they would ther Sayyed Qutub not have done so that ‘takfeer’ (accus- out history incriminated com- unless given a green ing others of being light. infidels), encouraging mitting suicide, the excuse sui- How can the West people to revolt cide bombers have been using support terrorist against their rulers powers who hardly and regimes and car- is liberating Jerusalem from form one percent of rying out terrorist the total number of and suicide opera- the Zionists Muslims worldwide tions began and and mobilize them in labeled as the ‘peak of jihad’. Muslim countries practicing violence, terrorism Though the majority of contemporary and bloodshed against Muslims there and Muslim scholars and their ancestors through- avoid such actions in their own countries out history incriminated committing suicide, where many Muslim communities live, and it the excuse suicide bombers have been using is would be normal that such terrorist ideas liberating Jerusalem from the Zionists. Well, to spread amongst them, especially since many of do this, Muslims will have to be united first, as I their ‘scholars’ live in the West. Therefore, I pre- said in a previous article by recalling the heroic dict that unless a fully sovereign Palestinian leader Saladin who did not liberate Jerusalem state is born with Jerusalem as its capital and until he united Muslim countries. There is a way unless the West stops supporting terrorists in too much difference between Saladin and Muslim countries, the recent terrorist attacks those hypocrites. will only be an endless chain of ‘black’ terrorism The West had and still provides leaders of Muslims have been suffering on a daily basis the Muslim Brotherhood and radical move- because of Western support of terrorists. ments full support, shelter and funds to face Saying so, I would like to highlight that I am the measures taken against them since Egypt - totally against terrorist attacks against inno- from Nasser, Sadat, Mubarak and the current cent civilians, be them in Australia, France or in president Sisi - as well as Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Muslim countries. I see them as religiously pro- Morocco and many other countries who have hibited (haram) and I do hope the West sees been having bad relations with the West things the way I do because it is unacceptable because of the Brotherhood. to support terrorists in the East and reject The West’s support of radicals started by them in the West. This is just a reminder! toppling the Russia-supported regime in — Translated by Kuwait Times from Al-Anbaa TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015

Pope urges Muslim leaders to condemn religious-based violence Divers retrieve one AirAsia ‘black box’ Page 10 Page 12

PARIS: Police officers and French army soldiers patrol Rue des Rosiers street, in the heart of Paris Jewish quarter, in Paris, sterday.ye France on Monday ordered 10,000 troops into the streets to protect sensitive sites after three days of bloodshed and terror, amid the hunt for accomplices to the attacks that left 17 people and the three gunmen dead.—AP France steps up security after blood-soaked week PARIS: France announced an ty for those murdered, in the biggest terror watch list “for years”. unprecedented deployment of thou- rally in modern French history. He told French radio on Monday he sands of troops and police to bolster In an extraordinary show of unity, wanted to see an “improved” system security at “sensitive” sites including dozens of world leaders, including of tapping phones which had to per- Jewish schools yesterday, the day from Israel and the Palestinian form better. after marches that drew nearly four Authority, linked arms at the front of Said was known to have travelled million people across the country. the march that was spearheaded by to Yemen in 2011, where he received “We have decided ... to mobilise victims’ families. weapons training from Al-Qaeda in 10,000 men to protect sensitive sites All major newspapers splashed the Arabian Peninsula, while Cherif in the whole country from tomorrow photos of the sea of humanity on the was a known jihadist who was con- (Tuesday) evening,” Defence Minister French capital’s streets, with banner victed in 2008 for involvement in a Jean-Yves Le Drian said after an emer- headlines reading “A people rise up”, network sending fighters to Iraq. gency security meeting. “Freedom on the march,” and “France Coulibaly was a repeat criminal “This is the first time that our stands up”. offender who had been convicted for troops have been mobilised to such During an emotional and colourful extremist Islamist activity. an extent on our own soil,” he added. rally, the crowd brandished banners All three were shot dead by securi- Ahead of the meeting, Prime Minister saying “I’m French and I’m not scared”. ty forces Friday after a three-day reign Manuel Valls said one of the attackers, In tribute to the cartoonists slaugh- of terror that culminated in twin Amedy Coulibaly, who gunned down tered at the offices of satirical maga- hostage dramas. a policewoman and four Jewish shop- zine Charlie Hebdo, the crowd also Investigators have been trying to pers at a kosher supermarket, likely held aloft signs saying: “Make fun, not hunt down Coulibaly’s partner, 26- received help from others. war” and “Ink should flow, not blood”. year-old Hayat Boumeddiene, but a “I don’t want to say more, but As Hollande proclaimed Paris the security source in Turkey told AFP she investigations are continuing into “capital of the world”, hundreds of arrived there on January 2, before the these attacks, this barbaric terrorist thousands of people turned out in attacks, and has probably travelled on acts. We think there are in fact proba- other French cities and marches were to Syria. bly accomplices,” Valls told French held in Berlin, Brussels, Istanbul and Coulibaly’s mother and sisters con- radio. Madrid as well as in US and Canadian demned his actions, saying “we hope “The hunt will go on,” he pledged. cities. there will not be any confusion The alert level in the shell-shocked between these odious acts and the country remained at its highest possi- ‘New anti-Semitism’ Muslim religion”. ble, as the interior minister Hollande has warned his grieving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin announced the deployment of nearly countrymen not to let down their Netanyahu was Monday to visit the 5,000 police to guard Jewish schools guard and questions were mounting scene of the hostage drama at the and places of worship. as to how the attackers slipped kosher supermarket in eastern Paris Bernard Cazeneuve said he was through the intelligence services’ net. that gripped the world. putting in place a “powerful and As well as Coulibaly, brothers Said, Netanyahu had joined Hollande durable” system of protection for 34, and Cherif Kouachi, 32, who car- at the main synagogue in Paris after France’s Jewish community, the ried out the Charlie Hebdo murders, Sunday’s march to honour the largest in Europe. had a history of extremism and were Jewish victims, and praised the “very The announcement of the fresh known to French intelligence. firm position” taken by French lead- security measures came after more Valls has admitted there were “clear ers against what he called “the new than 1.5 million people in Paris failings” after it emerged that the anti-Semitism and terrorism” in marched Sunday in unity and solidari- Kouachi brothers had been on a US France. — AFP

WASHINGTON: Education Secretary Arne Duncan speaks about the administration’s priorities for education, yes- terday, at Seaton Elementary in Washington. Duncan said that testing US schoolchildren annually in math and reading is critical for measuring their educational progress, setting the stage for what is likely to be a contentious Capitol Hill debate on the federal role in education. —AP p8_Layout 1 1/12/15 9:35 PM Page 1

TUUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 INTERNATIONAL

Iran eclipses US as Iraq’s ally in fight against militants

BAGHDAD: In the eyes of most Iraqis, tion have helped push back the militants $10 billion worth of weapons and hard- Sunni extremists had in the past enjoyed and Iranian operations. their country’s best ally in the war against in parts of the north, including breaking a ware, mostly weapons for urban warfare US patronage. “Let’s face it, Iran is an important neigh- the Islamic State group is not the United siege of a Shiite town. But many Iraqis like assault rifles, heavy machine-guns and “We fear that the objective of the US- bor to Iraq. There has to be cooperation States and the coalition air campaign believe the Americans mainly want to help rocket launchers, he said. The daily stream led coalition is to contain Daesh, rather between Iran and Iraq,” he said in a Dec. 4 against the militants. It’s Iran, which is the Kurds. Airstrikes helped Kurdish forces of Iranian cargo planes bringing weapons than exterminate it,” he said, using the interview. “The Iranians are talking to the credited with stopping the extremists’ stop extremists threatening the capital of to Baghdad was confirmed at a news con- Arabic acronym for the Islamic State Iraqi security forces and we’re talking to march on Baghdad. the Kurdish autonomous zone, Irbil, in ference by a former Shiite militia leader, group. Iraqi security forces . We’re relying on them Shiite, non-Arab Iran has effectively tak- August. But even that feat is accorded by Jamal Jaafar. Better known by his alias Abu Speaking this week at a memorial serv- to do the de-confliction.” en charge of Iraq’s defense against the many Iraqis to a timely airlift of Iranian Mahdi al-Mohandis, Jaafar is second in ice in Iran for a Revolutionary Guard officer US Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, chair- Sunni radical group, meeting the Iraqi arms to the Kurds. command of the recently created state gunned down by an Islamic State sniper, man of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Iraqi government’s need for immediate help on The meltdown of Iraq’s military in the agency in charge of volunteer fighters. al-Amiri mused that Iraqi Shiite Prime leaders have kept the US informed about the ground. Two to three Iranian military face of the extremists’ summer blitz across Some Sunnis are clearly worried. Sunni Minister Haider al-Abadi’s three -month- Iranian activities against IS and that aircraft a day land at Baghdad airport, much of northern and western Iraq gave lawmaker Mohammed al-Karbuly said the old administration would have been a Washington is watching the relationship bringing in weapons and ammunition. Iran the opportunity to step in. A flood of United States must increase its support of “government-in-exile” if not for Iran’s swift carefully. Iran’s most potent military force and best Shiite volunteers joined the fight to fill the Iraq against the extremists in order to help to protect Baghdad, according to He said if the two countries grow closer known general - the Revolutionary Guard’s void, bolstering the ranks of Shiite militias reduce Iran’s influence. “Iran now domi- Iran’s Fars news agency. economically or politically, “as long as the elite Quds Force and its commander Gen. already allied with Iran. nates Iraq,” he said. The praise does not just come from Iraqi government remains committed to Ghasem Soleimani - are organizing Iraqi Those militias have now been more or Equally key to Iran’s growing influence Shiite politicians. During a trip to Tehran inclusivity of all the various groups inside forces and have become the de facto lead- less integrated into Iraq’s official security has been a persistent suspicion of last week, Iraq’s Sunni defense minister, the country, then I think Iranian influence ers of Iraqi Shiite militias that are the back- apparatus, an Iraqi government official Washington’s intentions, particularly Khaled al-Obeidi, said Iran’s help against will be positive.” bone of the fight. Iran carried out airstrikes said, calling this the Islamic State group’s among Shiite militiamen. Hadi al-Amiri, a the militants is a “strategic necessity” for But Ali Khedery, a top US official in Iraq to help push militants from an Iraqi “biggest gift” to Tehran. prominent Shiite politician close to Iran Iraq. from 2003 until 2009, warned that Iranian province on its border. “Iran’s hold on Iraq grows tighter and and leader of the powerful Badr militia, US Ambassador to Iraq Stuart Jones influence will be “strategically catastroph- The result is that Tehran’s influence in faster every day,” he said, speaking on con- complained in a recent television inter- acknowledged to The Associated Press ic.” “It further consolidates Iran’s grip over Iraq, already high since US forces left at dition of anonymity because he was not view that Iraq was a victim of decades of that Iran plays an important role in fight- the Levant and Iraq,” said Khedery, who the end of 2011, has grown to an unprece- authorized to discuss the sensitive subject. “wrong” US policies in the Middle East. He ing the Islamic State group. He made clear resigned in protest over US failure to dented level. Airstrikes by the US-led coali- Over the past year, Iran sold Iraq nearly charged that the precursors of the region’s there was no interaction between the US thwart Iranian influence.—AP Lebanon raids prison over links to blasts

BEIRUT: Security forces raided Lebanon’s Fighting has regularly broken out notorious Roumieh prison yesterday after between residents of the neighbourhood, discovering that inmates were linked to a who largely back Assad’s regime, and mili- deadly bomb attack last week, security tants in neighbouring Bab al-Tebbaneh, services said. where residents back the Syrian uprising. The Internal Security Forces (ISF), in a The Saturday attack was carried out by statement, said an operation was under- Lebanese Sunnis from another Tripoli dis- way at the prison’s B block, where many trict known for supporting the uprising. high-profile Islamist prisoners are held. It was claimed by Al-Qaeda’s Syrian The block in Roumieh, east of Beirut, is branch Al-Nusra Front, which said it was known as a virtual no-go zone for security revenge for two attacks against mosques in forces, where prisoners have access to lap- Tripoli in August 2013 that killed at least 45 tops, phones and money. people. The ISF said some prisoners had rioted, On Monday, as security forces raided starting fires to thwart the operation, which Roumieh, Al-Nusra issued new threats follows a double suicide bomb attack against 16 Lebanese security forces it is Saturday in the Jabal Mohsen district of the holding hostage. northern city of Tripoli. “As a result of the deterioration of secu- “The operation is taking place as rity in Lebanon, you will hear about surpris- planned,” said the statement, published by es regarding the fate of the prisoners we Lebanon’s official National News Agency. have,” the group wrote on one of their “The situation is under control and there Twitter accounts. are no casualties and the plan being imple- Al-Nusra is believed to be holding 16 mented complements the overall security Lebanese security forces among 30 who plan for Lebanon,” it added. were kidnapped in the eastern border town “Roumieh prison is part of that plan, of Arsal during fighting in August. especially after the discovery of ties Another nine personnel are being held between a number of prisoners and the by the Islamic State jihadist group, and one terrorist blasts in the Jabal Mohsen area.” hostage died of wounds during the fight- The attack in often-tense Tripoli killed ing in Arsal. Four of those kidnapped have nine people in the neighbourhood which is been executed-two of them by their Al- CAIRO: Defendants react behind the bars at a court in Cairo following the acquittal yesterday of 26 male men accused of “debauchery” after inhabited mostly by members of the Nusra captors-and negotiations for the they were arrested in a night-time raid on a bathhouse in the Egyptian capital last month that triggered international concern. The men were Alawite sect to which Syrian President release of the remaining hostages have arrested on December 7 in the raid on a hammam in the Azbakeya district of Cairo, amid fears of a widening police crackdown on homosexuals Bashar al-Assad belongs. stalled. — AFP in Egypt even though Egyptian law does not expressly ban homosexuality. — AFP Israeli premier defied 26 acquitted of ‘debauchery’ France to join Paris march in Cairo bathhouse trial JERUSALEM: France asked Israeli Prime mony at Paris’s main synagogue to commem- Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to stay away orate four Jews who were among those killed. from a weekend solidarity march in Paris but “Hollande sat through most of the cere- he ignored the request and attended anyway, mony, but when Netanyahu’s turn at the Men dragged out of hammam onto police trucks Israeli media reported yesterday. podium arrived, the French president got up The same message was conveyed to from his seat and made an early exit.” CAIRO: An Egyptian court yesterday acquitted “Finally, an Egyptian court issued a verdict in have been humiliated in the media and in socie- Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in a bid 26 men accused of “debauchery” after their a case of this kind according to the law,” Ahmed ty,” he said. Relatives threatened to sue television to avoid the commemoration of the 17 peo- ‘Embarrassing’ night-time arrest from a Cairo bathhouse for sus- Hossam, a defence lawyer, told AFP. presenter Mona al-Iraqi who filmed the raid. ple killed in Islamist attacks in the French cap- The mass circulation Yediot Aharonot pected homosexual activity, in a case which trig- Egyptian law does not expressly ban homo- “It’s only right that the prosecution files a ital last week being clouded by the Middle newspaper also reported the apparent snub gered international concern. sexuality, but gay men have previously been case against her for making a false report to the East conflict, the reports said. to the Israeli premier. “Before Netanyahu “Allahu Akbar (God is Greatest), Long live jus- arrested and charged with debauchery instead. police,” said lawyer Hossam. “This will be the best But when Netanyahu rejected the appeals began his speech, President Hollande left tice,” chanted the defendants when the verdict In the past, homosexuals in Egypt have been rehabilitation for the defendants.” of the French government, Abbas was swiftly with his entourage... The impressive delega- was announced. “Long live justice and the jailed on charges ranging from “scorning reli- Iraqi has said on her Facebook page that air- invited, Channel Two television and Israeli tion of leaders from the Muslim community police,” cheered the jubilant families of the gion” to “sexual practices contrary to Islam”. ing the footage was not aimed at targeting newspapers reported. who attended the ceremony also chose to defendants, some of who had clashed with homosexuality, but part of a “series uncovering President Francois Hollande had wanted leave. They all, apparently, had prior commit- reporters and photographers before the hearing Forensic tests criticised male sex trafficking and the spread of AIDS in to “focus on solidarity with France, and to ments.” began. Relatives of the defendants kissed policemen Egypt”. Defence lawyer Islam Khalifah said there avoid anything liable to divert attention to Netanyahu’s conduct was widely criticised Prosecutors later filed an appeal against the present in the court as they expressed joy on was no evidence to convict the defendants. other controversial issues, like Jewish-Muslim by Israeli commentators. verdict. The men were arrested in a December 7 hearing the verdict. “Thanks to Allah, the truth is “There was the police officer’s story, and he is relations or the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” the “It was embarrassing, not to say disgrace- raid on a hammam in the Azbakeya district of out ... my son was in the hammam with his the only witness and the forensic report denied liberal Haaretz newspaper reported. ful, to see Israel’s prime minister yesterday the capital, amid fears of a widening police friend to bath before his wedding. My son is a his version of the story,” he said. The forensic There was also concern Netanyahu would trying to push his way onto a bus that he was crackdown on gays in Egypt. real man,” said Hanan, a mother of one of the report submitted to the court states that none of use the event to “make speeches” as he pre- not supposed to board, making his way The raid was filmed by a female television defendants. the defendants showed signs of regular homo- pares for a March 17 general election, in determinedly from the second row (where he journalist, who days later aired the footage on Bothaina Halim, a gay woman using a pseu- sexual activities. Dalia Abdel Hamid of the which he is seeking a fourth term. was placed) to the row of leaders walking in the “The Hidden,” a weekly programme on pro- donym, was “ecstatic” over the acquittals. Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights, an NGO, The request to stay away was made by front (which he took over), behaving in a regime private satellite channel Al-Qahira Wel “But it’s important to remember that they said yesterday’s verdict was likely the result of Hollande’s national security adviser, Jacques mourning parade as in an election rally,” Ben Nas. The footage showed the near naked men, should have never been arrested, put on display media frenzy. Audibert, to his Israeli counterpart, Yossi Caspit wrote in the rightwing Maariv newspa- covering their faces and wearing only towels, or subjected to state-sponsored sexual assault in “Unexpectedly, society broadly condemned Cohen, and was initially accepted, Haaretz per. “The reprisal was not late in coming. dragged out of the hammam and loaded onto the form of anal forensic examinations,” she told what Mona Iraqi did to these men, and the viola- reported. President Francois Hollande fell on Abu police trucks. AFP. Advocacy groups such as New York-based tion of their privacy,” she said. The verdict came But on Saturday evening, the rightwing Mazen’s (Abbas’s) shoulders in a close The defendants, including the bathhouse Human Rights Watch have regularly condemned weeks after a court reduced the jail terms of prime minister’s hardline rivals in the govern- embrace but greeted Netanyahu with a owner and four employees, were brought hand- the controversial anal tests carried out on sus- eight men over an alleged gay wedding video ing coalition, Foreign Minister Avigdor frozen hand.” cuffed to the court room and made to stand in a pected gays. that went viral on the Internet, slashing them to Lieberman and Economy Minister Naftali France angered Israel late last month by metal cage guarded by two rifle-wielding police- Hassan Sherif, a gay man also not using his one year each from three years. Bennett, announced they would travel to voting in support of a draft UN Security men. “The ruling proved our innocence and real name, welcomed Monday’s ruling but Their arrests in September were part of a Paris. “When Netanyahu heard they were Council resolution on Palestinian statehood cleared the name of the hammam. I swear we warned that “the damage has already been series of highly publicised raids targeting sus- going, he informed the French he would be that would have set an end-date for Israeli did nothing wrong,” said Fathy Abdel Rahman, done”. “The social stigma now attached to these pected homosexuals in the deeply conservative attending the march after all.” occupation. The text failed to secure the nine the owner. men and their families will not go away. They Muslim country. — AFP Haaretz said that the prime minister’s votes necessary to be adopted in the 15- actions had infuriated the French president, member council but Israel called in the who had demonstrated his “anger” at a cere- French ambassador to protest.—AFP 1,400 from France have joined jihadis PARIS: Some 1,400 people living in France 1,400 today,” said Valls. The two gunmen have either joined the jihadist cause in who slaughtered 12 people at satirical Syria and Iraq or are planning to do so, newspaper Charlie Hebdo, Cherif Kouachi Prime Minister Manuel Valls said yesterday. and his brother Said, were likely among “There are 1,400 individuals who are those who had left the country to “to be involved in the departures for jihad, for ter- trained to kill and to sow terror”. rorism, in Syria and in Iraq,” Valls told The third gunman, Amedy Coulibaly, BFMTV. “There are close to 70 French citi- who stormed a kosher supermarket on zens or residents in France who have died Friday, never left for such training, said in Syria and Iraq in the ranks of the terror- Valls. “He was not on the intelligence servic- ists,” he added. es’ radar,” added the prime minister. French ARBIL: German defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen The latest government figures were a authorities said in December that they (R) talks with a German military trainer as they show big jump from data in mid-December, have dismantled about a dozen networks Kurdish Peshmerga fighters how to operate a machine when 1,200 people were said to have left or that were sending people to fight in Iraq gun at a training camp in Arbil, the capital of the are seeking to leave to battle alongside and Syria. France, along with Belgium, has Kurdish autonomous region in northern Iraq, yester- jihadists. seen the largest numbers of volunteers day. After Islamic State (IS) group militants swept fed- PORTE DE VINCENNES: Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (C) arrives at a “It is a massive jump in very little time: leaving to join the Islamic State jihadist eral security forces aside and drove south toward kosher grocery store in Porte de Vincennes, eastern Paris, yesterday after four peo- there were just about 30 cases when I group, which has seized large parts of Syria Baghdad in June, IS launched a renewed push against ple were killed on January 9 at the Jewish supermarket by a jihadist gunman during became interior minister (in mid-2012), and and Iraq. —AFP Kurdish forces, driving them back toward their regional a hostage-taking. — AFP capital Arbil. — AFP TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 INTERNATIONAL

New sanctions could torpedo Iran nuclear deal: US envoy to UN NEW YORK: It is still possible to reach a live on the Internet, Power called for program. up its nuclear program.” she said. “We assess that we still have a nuclear deal with Iran, but new US con- greater cooperation between Kerry meets Iran’s Foreign Minister “We in the administration believe credible chance of reaching the agree- gressional sanctions could seriously Republicans and President Barack Mohammad Javad Zarif in Geneva on that, at this time, increasing sanctions ment we want.” undermine prospects for an agreement Obama’s Democrats on key foreign poli- Wednesday to renew the push for an would dramatically undermine our The moment the Obama administra- and end up isolating Washington cy and security issues, including Iran, elusive nuclear accord after negotiators efforts to reach this shared goal,” she tion decides it is not possible to reach a instead of Tehran, the US envoy to the Cuba and the fight against terrorism. failed for the second time in November added. deal with Tehran, she noted, it will join United Nations said yesterday. “If we pull the trigger on new to meet a self-imposed deadline. The Despite tremendous differences Congress in pushing for new sanctions. The remarks from Ambassador nuclear-related sanctions now, we will agreement would gradually end sanc- between Iran and the international com- “We have not reached that point yet,” Samantha Power were in a speech at the go from isolating Iran to potentially iso- tions in exchange for curbs on Iranian munity on issues like the future scope of Power said. McConnell Center at the University of lating ourselves,” she said. atomic work. Tehran’s uranium enrichment program Senior foreign ministry officials from Louisville. Among those attending was Earlier yesterday US Secretary of “Some members of Congress believe and the duration of any restrictions on Iran and six world powers - the United the center’s co-founder, Senator Mitch State John Kerry said that he and his that the time has come to ratchet up Iranian atomic activity, Power said a States, Britain, France, Germany, Russia McConnell, the new US Senate majority Iranian counterpart would seek to push sanctions on Iran,” she said. “They argue long-term accord was still possible. and China - resume nuclear talks on leader. forward negotiations between major that this is the most effective way to “We are still at the negotiating table Sunday to hammer out an agreement by In her address, which was broadcast world powers and Tehran on its nuclear achieve the goal of getting Iran to give for one reason, and one reason alone,” their new June 30 deadline. — Reuters Obama seeks laws on data hacking, student privacy

WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama wants Congress to pass legisla- tion requiring companies to inform cus- tomers within 30 days if their data has been hacked, a move that follows high- profile breaches at retailers including Target, Home Depot and Neiman Marcus. A White House official said Obama will announce the proposed legislation Monday, along with a measure aimed at preventing companies from selling stu- dent data to third parties and from using information collected in school to engage in targeted advertising. Obama’s proposals are part of a White House effort to preview compo- nents of the president’s State of the WASHINGTON: This Jan 9, 2015, file photo shows President Barack Obama Union address in the lead-up to the Jan. speaking about the France newspaper attack. President Obama wants 20 speech. The official, who insisted on Congress to pass legislation requiring companies to inform customers with- anonymity, was not authorized to dis- in 30 days if their data has been hacked. Obama will also propose a bill that HAVANA: In this Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015 photo, a boy, obscured by a Cuban national flag, walks with an image of cuss the proposed legislation by name would prevent companies from selling student data to third parties. —AP Fidel Castro, to the setting of a caravan tribute marking the 56th anniversary of the original street party that ahead of Obama’s speech at the Federal greeted a triumphant Castro and his rebel army, in Regla, Cuba. Castro and his rebels arrived in Havana via cara- Trade Commission. Privacy Act. The measure would prohibit tional websites and apps to enrich their van on Jan 1, 1959, after toppling dictator Fulgencio Batista. Social media around the world have been flooded If passed by Congress, the Personal companies from selling student data to learning without fear that their personal with a new wave of rumors of Fidel Castro’s death, but there was no sign that the reports were true. The 88-year- Data Notification and Protection Act third parties, a move spurred by the information will be exploited for com- old former Cuban leader has not been seen in public for months. —AP would require US companies to notify increased use of technology in schools mercial purposes or fall into the wrong customers within 30 days of their per- that can scoop up personal information. hands,” Common Sense Media CEO sonal information being compromised. The White House official said the James Steyer said in a statement. Recent hackings have exposed the lack proposed bill is based on a California The Center for Democracy & Cuba completes release of uniform practices for alerting cus- statute pushed by Common Sense Technology also said it supports tomers in the event of a breach. The leg- Media, a group that promotes privacy. Obama’s moves to protect the data, islation would also make it a crime to The organization said the proliferation while pointing out that his administra- of 53 political prisoners sell customers’ identities overseas. of online platforms, mobile applications, tion still uses electronic surveillance for Obama’s proposals also follow last cloud computing and other technology national security purposes. month’s hacking at Sony Pictures allows businesses to collect sensitive “Even with these proposed reforms, Changes are already occurring in Cuba Entertainment. The White House has data about students including contact we must not forget about government blamed the cyber attack on North Korea information, academic records, and surveillance reform,” said Nuala HAVANA: Cuba has completed the ilies, (it) does not resolve the larger “In spite of genuine fear, Cubans and responded with new sanctions even what students eat for lunch or O’Connor, the group’s president. release of 53 political prisoners that human rights problems on the island,” were speaking out,” Power said. “And against the isolated nation. whether they ride the bus to school. “Without the end to the mass surveil- was part of last month’s historic deal Samantha Power said, according to the Castro government was forced to In addition to the customer notifica- “We applaud President Obama for lance practices of the US government, between the United States and Cuba, prepared remarks. explain why it would rather arrest a tion legislation, Obama will also ask law- standing up for school children, who any privacy reform is woefully incom- the Obama administration said yester- Earlier, an official traveling with US woman than let her speak freely in a makers to pass the Student Digital deserve the opportunity to use educa- plete.”— AP day. Secretary of State John Kerry in public square. The move would clear a major hur- Islamabad said the US verified the Last month, Cuba and the US dle for the normalization of ties release. Power was speaking yester- agreed to work to restore normal between the two countries after more day at an event hosted by Senate diplomatic relations as part of a deal than five decades of estrangement. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R- in which Cuba freed an imprisoned US Cuba’s leading human rights group Ky. She outlined issues which the aid worker along with an imprisoned said it had not been informed of any administration and the Republican- spy working for the U.S. and the prisoner release since Thursday, when led Congress could work together on imprisoned dissidents. The US the total count stood at 41. The Cuban and issues they remained further released several Cuba intelligence Commission on Human Rights and apart on. agents. National Reconciliation has been Both sides want to advance free- “Certainly, for those 53 prisoners, keeping close track of the liberation of dom in Cuba, she said, but they dis- it’s a great deal. We don’t know who prisoners since they began last week, agree on strategy. “Some of the they are,” Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., said reporting releases within hours after embargo’s staunchest defenders are in an appearance Monday on “CBS hearing from family members or pris- Democrats and Republicans with This Morning.” Rubio said he supports oners themselves. deep ties to the island - people whose improving ties with Cuba but said he’s The releases have been shrouded families came to America fleeing the worried that the Cubans are getting in confusion due to both a US and Castros’ repression,” Power explained. virtually everything they want from Cuban reluctance to release the “These are men and women who are the United States for “these minimal names of those on the list. The prison- completely dedicated to doing all changes.” ers had been on a list of opposition they can to ensure that Cubans on the He said he wants to be certain that figures whose release was sought as island get to enjoy true freedom. So it improved relations between part of the US agreement last month is important to acknowledge that Washington and Havana provides with the Cuban government. They while there may be disagreements on equal benefits to the US. “My interest had been cited by various human the best way to get there, we share a in Cuba is freedom and democracy,” rights organizations as being impris- common goal of advancing the rights he said. Rubio, a member of the oned by the Cuban government for of the Cuban people.” Senate Foreign Relations Committee exercising internationally protected Power said changes already are who’s considering a run for the presi- freedoms or for their promotion of occurring in Cuba. When Cuban artist dency, said there is “no current exam- political and social reforms in Cuba. Tania Bruguera and other activists ple” around the world where a “gov- Speaking in Louisville, Kentucky, were detained after announcing an ernment of resistant tyranny” has President Barack Obama’s U.N. ambas- anti-government event in Havana’s moved to greater freedom and sador said the prisoners were released historic Revolution Square, she said, democracy as a result of changes in in recent days. “Welcome as that step nearly 300 Cuban artists signed a let- international relations that are based is, and heartening as it is for their fam- ter supporting her freedom. on economic incentives. — AP Police probe motive in Idaho shooting spree that killed 3

MOSCOW: Investigators say a laptop of a former state representative, as well Kelsey Stemrich said she was working computer from the vehicle of a man sus- as Michael Chin, 39, of Seattle. at a cafe near Arby’s when she and a cus- pected in a deadly shooting spree in Duke said Chin had no link to Lee, but tomer heard three gunshots and then western Idaho could yield clues to a he was discussing business with Trail saw people running from the restaurant. motive for the violence. when the gunman arrived. Duke said She says they took down the license - Investigators searched the car of 29- Chin was shot in the arm and leg. plate number of a car seen pulling away year-old John Lee, recovering two semi- Authorities initially said he was being from the Arby’s and called it into police. automatic pistols, a revolver, a shotgun flown to a hospital in Seattle in critical Police in Washington spotted the sus- and a rifle, along with the laptop, condition, but Duke said Sunday he was pect’s black Honda, and a chase involv- Moscow Police Chief David Duke said. flown to one in Spokane. It wasn’t imme- ing multiple agencies ensued. Pullman Lee was arrested following a high- diately clear which hospital he was in; a Police Chief Gary Jenkins said the pursuit speed chase in nearby Washington state supervisor at Providence Sacred Heart lasted nearly 25 miles, and Lee’s vehicle in the hours after the shootings Saturday Medical Center said Sunday the hospital at times topped 100 mph before crash- afternoon. would not confirm whether he was a ing off Highway 195 north of Colfax and Police allege he opened fire at three patient there. There were “some issues” rolling to a stop. locations in Moscow, Idaho, killing his regarding Lee’s apartment, Duke said, Duke said he had been adopted at adoptive mother, then his landlord, and but no eviction proceedings that police birth, and he recently returned to then a manager at a restaurant his par- were aware of. Moscow after living for a few years in the ents frequented. A Seattle man was also Midwest. But few other details on his critically injured. Gunshots background were available. Lee was tak- Ballistics tests were expected to help Upon leaving the insurance office, the en to a Colfax hospital for treatment of determine which weapons might have shooter drove to an Arby’s restaurant and minor injuries before he was booked into been used in the shootings. Authorities asked for the manager. When she the Whitman County Jail on a charge of were seeking a warrant to search the appeared, he pulled out a gun and felony eluding. Duke said Idaho authori- computer, Duke said. “There’s still noth- opened fire. The manager, Belinda ties had issued an arrest warrant for Lee ing to identify a specific motive as to why Niebuhr, 47, died at the Moscow hospital. for investigation of three counts of first- Mr. Lee took these actions,” he said. Duke told The Associated Press that degree murder and one of attempted The first death was that of Lee’s adop- Lee’s parents ate at the restaurant and murder, and he said they could take Lee tive mother, Terri Grzebielski, 61, at her knew the manager well, but it’s not clear into custody from Washington state by home. Police said Lee then headed to whether Lee did as well. He did not work Monday unless he fights extradition. Northwest Mutual life insurance, where at the restaurant as far as police knew, Moscow is a city of about 25,000 peo- he shot his landlord, David Trail, 76, who and workers who witnessed the attack ple in northern Idaho. It’s about 10 miles was a local businessman and the brother didn’t recognize him, Duke said. from Pullman, Washington. —AP p10 3_Layout 1 1/12/15 9:36 PM Page 1

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 INTERNATIONAL

Turkey says Boumeddiene crossed into Syria last week ISTANBUL: Hayat Boumeddiene, the mony, stayed at a hotel in the Kadikoy agency, the National Intelligence 12 people. The last signal received from her wanted partner of one of the gunmen district on the Asian side of Istanbul and Organisation (MIT), and the police were Coulibaly on January 9 took hostages phone showed that she was in the behind the terror attacks in France, was accompanied by another person. still working to shed more light on the at a kosher supermarket in eastern Paris Syrian town of Tel Abyad, the daily said. crossed into conflict-torn Syria last week He did not give further details on the matter. which was then raided by police in the Press reports have speculated that after travelling through Turkey, the identity of the other individual and did A Turkish security source earlier told evening. The gunman and four hostages she may have joined IS jihadists who Turkish authorities said yesterday. not make clear if she had travelled to AFP that Boumeddiene had entered were killed. The Kouachi brothers were have captured swathes of Iraq and Syria Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Syria on her own. Turkey on January 2 and was believed to also killed after a separate hostage-tak- right up to the Turkish border. Cavusoglu said Boumeddiene had have moved on to the southeastern ing incident. However there has has so far been no crossed into Syria on January 8, the ‘No warning from France’ Turkish city of Sanliurfa and then to A man resembling Coulibaly, claimed concrete proof of this. Western countries same day that her partner Amedy Cavusoglu added that Turkey passed Syria. to be a member of the Islamic State (IS) have long accused Turkey of not doing Coulibaly is suspected of shooting dead the information to the French authori- But Turkey did not arrest her because jihadist group in a posthumous video enough to stem the flow of jihadists a policewoman outside Paris on the sec- ties “even before they asked for it” as of a lack of timely intelligence from released online on Sunday. seeking to join IS fighters in neighbour- ond day of the Paris attacks. soon as Ankara identified her where- France, the source said. ing Syria. “She entered Turkey on January 2 abouts. “We told them: ‘The person you Turkish officials’ comments confirm ‘Under surveillance’ But Ankara insists it has now stepped from Madrid. There are images of her at are looking for was here, stayed here that Boumeddiene was already outside Turkey’s Yeni Safak newspaper up border security and has repeatedly the airport,” Cavusoglu was quoted as and crossed into Syria illegally’,” he said. France when the three-day killing spree reported that MIT took action following said the West also has a responsibility to saying by state-run news agency Interior Minister Efkan Ala also said began, contrary to earlier speculation reports that Boumeddiene was in Turkey share intelligence. “Foreign fighters Anatolia. Turkey did not refuse Boumeddiene that she had been involved in the and put her under surveillance due to posed a serious problem for Turkey too “Then she crossed into Syria on entry because French authorities had attacks which claimed 17 lives. her “suspicious behaviour”. but we have taken important steps,” January 8. This is clear from the tele- made no such request and that they The killings began on January 7 She stayed at the hotel in the Kadikoy Cavusoglu said. “As Turkey, we are phone records.” hadn’t warned Ankara that she was when brothers Cherif and Said Kouachi for two days with a man named Mahdi against every kind of terrorism no mat- Cavusoglu said the 26-year-old, who “dangerous.” stormed the Paris offices of French satiri- Sabri and left the hotel only twice dur- ter which race, religion, sect or region it had married Coulibaly in an Islamic cere- He added that Turkey’s intelligence cal weekly Charlie Hebdo, slaughtering ing her stay, Yeni Safak said. comes from.”— AFP

Kosher market attack deepens fears among European Jews

MILAN: The killing of four French Jews in last for five hours during the hostage-taking, said week’s hostage standoff at a Paris kosher mar- he would now move his family of four chil- ket has deepened the fears among European dren to Israel. Jewish communities shaken by rising anti- “On Monday I am going to make Aliyah,” Semitism and feeling vulnerable due to poor he said, using the Hebrew term for immigra- security and a large number of potential soft tion to Israel. “We are not going to wait targets. around here to die.” Overall, immigration was In the wake of the attacks, which follow up 88 percent from Western Europe in 2014, deadly strikes on a Belgian Jewish Museum with the arrival of 8,640 immigrants com- and a Jewish school in southwestern France, pared with some 4,600 in 2013, with surges Israeli leaders have called on European Jews to also from Italy, Belgium and Britain, according immigrate to the Jewish state. But European to the Jewish Agency. Jews are deeply ambivalent about leaving, and Experts say European Jews have not felt their community leaders, along with top politi- this threatened since World War II, when cians, have urged people to stay in their home- some 6 million Jews were murdered in the lands. “The European Jewry is the oldest Nazi Holocaust. Researchers at Tel Aviv European minority and we have our experi- University monitoring anti -Semitism have ence of surviving under all possible circum- reported a chilling increase in attacks in stances,” Moshe Kantor, president of the Europe over the past decade, including dead- European Jewish Congress, told The ly shootings in Toulouse, France, in 2012 and Associated Press. “We will not give up our Brussels last year. In recent years, France has motherland, which is called Europe. We will had the highest number of incidents of any not stop the history of European Jewry, that is single country. for sure.” For many of Europe’s 2 million Jews, the Kantor called for increased security at mood following the Paris attacks was one of DRESDEN: In this Jan 5, 2015 file photo about 18,000 participants of a rally called ‘Patriotic Europeans against the Islamization of the West’ Jewish sites, concerted action against anti- tense vigilance amid increased security and (PEGIDA) demonstrate in Saxony’s capital Dresden, eastern Germany. Anti-immigrant protests have been growing by the week, drawing inter- Semitism across the continent and better additional personal precautions. Some were national attention and fears that xenophobia is on the rise again in German - where the Nazi past has long made such sentiments taboo. — AP coordination of intelligence forces against defiant and determined to remain. Others religious extremism. But he acknowledged wondered whether their way of life can con- that if any Jewish European does not feel safe, tinue. Heightened security measures, visible “I say you should leave in this case.” and non-visible, were swiftly enacted at German anti-Islamists seize on Many French Jews already are. Last year, Jewish places of worship, study and business 7,000 emigrated to Israel as anti-Semitism across Europe over the weekend. Security spiked across France, fed by tensions with the officials and Jewish leaders in Italy, Britain, terror fears with new rally country’s large Arab population after the out- Poland, the Netherlands, Germany, and break of Israel’s war against Palestinian mili- Austria confirmed increased surveillance of tants in the Gaza Strip. That was double the vulnerable sites without providing details. Political leaders urge PEGIDA to call off event previous year, making France, for the first Still, many Jews are taking their own pre- time, the No. 1 source of immigration to cautions: An Israeli mother of three, who has BERLIN: Germany’s growing anti-Islamic move- Leipzig, which will see its first PEGIDA-style demon- Germany, Europe’s most populous nation with Israel, according to the Jewish Agency, a non- been living in Berlin for several years, said she ment is set to hold a new rally yesterday, this time stration yesterday, has banned marchers from dis- around 80 million people, is home to about four profit group that helps Jews move to Israel. no longer allows her children to talk in condemning the jihadist attacks in France, in a playing Mohammed cartoons, which have been million Muslims, three-quarters of Turkish origin. Officials in Israel are expecting - and Hebrew outside the home. “When we are out- move slammed as an attempt to exploit the blood- seen at other events. In a survey conducted several weeks ago and encouraging - a new influx following the Paris side, I tell my kids to only speak English. I’m shed. Leaders of the so-called “Patriotic Europeans With tensions running high, political leaders released Thursday, 57 percent of non-Muslim standoff. Since last week’s attacks, Prime too afraid that somebody will recognize that Against the Islamisation of the Occident” (PEGIDA) even urged PEGIDA to call off the event, saying it Germans said they felt threatened by Islam, four Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has encour- we are Jewish or Israeli and then harm us,” have asked participants to wear black armbands had no right to whip up hatred against Muslims in points higher than in 2012. aged European Jews to move to the Jewish said the woman, who did not want to give and observe a minute’s silence for “the victims of the name of solidarity with terror victims. And 61 percent said Islam had no place in the state. her name out of fear. Security at Rome’s soar- terrorism in Paris”. “If the organisers had a shred of decency they West, according to the study released by the In an interview with Israel’s Channel 10 TV ing Art Deco synagogue along the Tiber River Euphemistically dubbed “evening strolls” by the would simply cancel these demonstrations,” Justice Bertelsmann Foundation think-tank. Saturday, Yohan Cohen, one of the hostages was noticeably heightened during Friday group, yesterday’s march in the eastern city of Minister Heiko Maas told the mass-selling daily Meanwhile PEGIDA has said on its Facebook who hid inside a freezer at the kosher market evening prayers. —AP Dresden is expected to ride a wave of fear and Bild. “It is simply disgusting how the people behind page that the killings at Charlie Hebdo in Paris con- revulsion at the killings of 17 people in France to these protests are trying to exploit the despicable firmed its own views. “The Islamists, which PEGIDA beat last week’s record attendance of 18,000. crimes in Paris.” The head of Merkel’s Bavarian sister has been warning about for 12 weeks, showed Pope urges Muslim leaders to However counterprotests are gaining momen- party, Horst Seehofer, echoed the call. At a time France that they are not capable of democracy but tum, with 35,000 people turning out Saturday in “when the whole world is mourning and in shock rather look to violence and death as an answer,” it condemn religious-based violence Dresden against the anti-Islamic group. over the events in Paris”, PEGIDA leaders should at said. “Our politicians want us to believe the oppo- Several German Muslim groups have called for a least “for the time being” cancel their rallies, site. Must such a tragedy happen here in Germany VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis on Monday of the Muslim community, will condemn all silent march in Berlin today to denounce violence Seehofer said. first???” Activists have announced plans for PEGIDA condemned last week’s killings by Islamist fundamentalist and extremist interpreta- and social division, which Chancellor Angela spin-offs in Austria and Scandinavia, while other militants in Paris and urged Muslim leaders tions of religion that attempt to justify such Merkel and several members of her cabinet plan to Anti-Muslim sentiment European far-right groups have voiced support for around the world to denounce fundamen- acts of violence,” the pope said. attend. The latest PEGIDA demonstration comes The demonstrations, though largely limited to the German movement. talist interpretations of religion that use Francis has several times condemned after a firebombing early Sunday against a tabloid Dresden in former communist east Germany, have However, even as copycat marches are planned God’s name to justify violence. Islamic State fighters who have killed or in the northern city of Hamburg that had reprinted shaken the reunified country’s hard-won reputa- Monday in other German cities, counter demon- “Violence is always the product of a falsi- displaced Shi’ite Muslims, Christians and cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed from the tion for openness and tolerance. strations against PEGIDA are growing in strength. fication of religion, its use a pretext for ide- others in Syria and Iraq who do not share French satirical paper Charlie Hebdo. Merkel, who used a New Year’s Eve address to Many of the 35,000 who hit the streets of ological schemes whose only goal is power the group’s ideology. It was at the Paris offices of Charlie Hebdo that call on Germans not to take part in the PEGIDA ral- Dresden Saturday carried signs reading “I am over others,” the pope said. “Religious fundamentalism, even before gunmen first struck, kicking off France’s three days lies and on Sunday attended a huge solidarity Charlie but not PEGIDA” borrowing from the soli- The Argentine pope, 78, made the com- it eliminates human beings by perpetrating of terror in which 17 people died. German police march in Paris, was to meet Turkish Prime Minister darity slogan with the Paris victims. ments in an annual meeting with diplo- horrendous killings, eliminates God him- were investigating whether there was a link Ahmet Davutoglu in Berlin yesterday. And during offshoot PEGIDA marches last mats accredited to the Vatican in a speech self, turning him into a mere ideological between the show of support for the French week- Davutoglu is expected to ask Merkel to address Monday, landmarks such as Cologne cathedral and that has come to be known as his “State of pretext,” he told the diplomats from some ly and the arson attack. growing anti-Muslim sentiment in Germany with Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate dimmed their lights just the World” address. 180 countries. As a security precaution, the eastern city of concrete action, according to Turkish press reports. as protesters gathered. — AFP Francis said the killings in Paris showed In other sections of his speech, he how the rejection of other people’s beliefs denounced human trafficking as “an abom- could lead to a breakdown of society and inable trade” and condemned the spawn violence and death. “unspeakable brutality” of last month’s Seventeen people, including journalists attack by Taliban militants in which more Foreign ministers plan Ukraine and police, were killed in three days of vio- than 130 Pakistani schoolchildren were lence that began on Wednesday when killed. peace summit in heat of battle Islamist militants attacked the satirical He held up the recent agreement by the weekly Charlie Hebdo, whose unsparing United States and Cuba to re-establish ties cartoons have lampooned Islam alongside after more than half a century, in a deal KIEV: Foreign ministers from Moscow and Kiev stray shells could do similar damage to com- other religions. that the Vatican helped to broker, as an meet their French and German counterparts in bustible natural gas lines that snake across former “I express my hope that religious, politi- example of how patient diplomacy and Berlin yesterday to arrange a Ukrainian peace sum- Soviet lands. Ukraine’s armed forces said the mili- cal and intellectual leaders, especially those dialogue can build bridges. — Reuters mit that the Europeans fear is premature because tias attacked federal positions on 63 occasions of festering fighting. Ukrainian President Petro since Sunday morning-about five times the num- Poroshenko hopes to stage the leadership meeting ber recorded on more peaceful days witnessed in in the Kazakh capital Astana on Thursday so that the nine-month war. two of his closest allies could push Vladimir Putin into signing a document that finally commits Mutual need in peace Russia to peace. Yet both Putin and Poroshenko have reasons to A September 5 truce agreed by the two presi- end fighting that began shortly after the February dents’ envoys was followed by 1,300 more deaths ouster in Kiev of a Moscow-backed president and and has ultimately failed to end the pro-Kremlin Russia’s subsequent seizure of Ukraine’s Crimea militias’ separatist claim in the industrial southeast peninsula. Ukraine’s army is a shadow of the once- of Ukraine. But German Chancellor Merkel proud force that made up the communist Red informed both Putin and Poroshenko over the Army. Demoralised troops have been captured by Ukrainian president Viktor Yanukovych weekend that she would not fly to Central Asia to the hundreds and even crossed into Russia for safe- put her name on a deal that is valid only on paper ty from insurgent attacks. the plunge in the price for its oil exports and dra- while clashes raged after already claiming 4,700 Poroshenko backed the September deal after matic ruble decline. The agency’s negative outlook lives. The rebel stronghold of Donetsk-a once nearly seeing resurgent gunmen establish a land means that Fitch could soon consign Russia’s sover- bustling city of nearly one million that now stands bridge between Russia and Crimea that would eign debt to the “junk” status reserved for the half vacant and suffering chronic power and water have cut off Ukraine’s access to the Sea of Azov on world’s riskiest investments and which would put it shortages-has been the target of especially heavy its southeastern coast. The campaign has since set- off limits to most Western funds. rocket and artillery fire in the past week. tled into a stalemate in which little ground changes The most painful EU and US measures deprive Kiev accuses the rebels of escalating their hands despite the bloodshed. Russia’s most powerful banks and energy produc- strikes in order to undermine the chances of Putin And Putin-his personal approval soaring but his ers from borrowing money for more than 90 days agreeing to a settlement that preserves Ukraine’s country’s economy shrinking for the first time since on Western markets. This has left indebted firms eastern border with Russia and buries their inde- 2009 — would benefit greatly from an easing of dependent on rescues from a Russia government pendence hopes. A partial Donetsk power outage financial restrictions Western allies slapped on that has seen its own budget revenues shrink. on Sunday trapped more than 300 miners inside Russia over its approach to Ukraine. The central bank on Monday reported spending VATICAN: Pope Francis meets with ambassadors to the Holy See, yesterday at the one of Europe’s largest coal pits for several hours Fitch on Friday downgraded Russia’s credit rat- $76 billion last year in its eventually-abandoned Vatican. — AFP with limited oxygen supplies. Residents fear that ing to the lowest possible investment level due to effort to prop up the ruble.— AFP TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 INTERNATIONAL

America vows to work with new Sri Lanka leaders

GANDHINAGAR: Washington pledged yesterday Kerry spoke with Rajapakse just “days ago,” he respect to human rights, the problems of inclusiv- Relations between Washington and Colombo to work with Sri Lanka’s newly-elected govern- told a press conference, to highlight “the impor- ity, challenges with respect to governance are soured under Rajapakse after the United States ment to help improve human rights and democ- tance of maintaining a peaceful process no mat- going to be addressed.” secured a UN-led investigation into the final racy, voicing hope the election will mark the start ter what”. There was however “hope that we can now stages of Sri Lanka’s separatist war that ended in of a new chapter in ties. “So it is good that the people of Sri Lanka have forge a different outcome in Sri Lanka. The elec- May 2009. US Secretary of State John Kerry telephoned been able to have an election that has been tion hopefully will become a demarcation point US envoy Michele Sison had strongly criticised President Maithripala Sirisena late Sunday to say accepted and which has resulted in a peaceful for a new moment, a new chapter, a new set of Sri Lanka’s failure to address allegations that up the US now hoped to strengthen its ties with the change of power,” he told reporters in opportunities for the people of Sri Lanka.” to 40,000 mainly minority Tamil civilians were tear-shaped Indian Ocean island. Gandhinagar, western India. Kerry had earlier voiced appreciation for killed by troops in the final months of the war. Veteran leader Mahinda Rajapakse had alienat- But the top US diplomat cautioned: “There are Rajapakse’s early concession of election defeat, Kerry is in India ahead of a visit by US ed many foreign leaders by refusing to cooperate still real challenges in Sri Lanka.” “We offered although a Sirisena aide has since said the former President Barack Obama, who will be guest of with an international probe into alleged wartime immediately to engage in a dialogue to begin to president tried to hold onto power by staging a honour at the country’s January 26 Republic Day abuses during a crackdown on Tamil Tiger rebels. work at guaranteeing that the problems with coup. celebrations. — AFP Sri Lanka’s new president purges Rajapakse placemen

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s new president under Rajapakse. Senaratne said the has axed hundreds of officials and diplo- new government had secured wide sup- mats appointed by his predecessor as he port, including from parties outside the prepares to form his new cabinet, a sen- coalition. ior aide said yesterday. The main party representing the Lawmaker Rajitha Senaratne also said country’s Tamil minority, who played a President Maithripala Sirisena would significant role in ousting Rajapakse, announce his cabinet later. declined to take any cabinet positions “He has asked all political appointees but agreed to support the president, of the former president to resign imme- Senaratne said. diately,” said Senaratne, adding political- Sirisena, who needs a majority in the ly appointed diplomats had been asked 225-member assembly to push through to return to the country. “We are going ambitious reforms, has moved to to have a cabinet of 29 ministers,” strengthen his hold on parliament by Senaratne told AFP. Sirisena invited all securing further defections. parties to join his cabinet on Sunday, He has pledged to reverse many of two days after ousting Sri Lanka’s long- the constitutional changes made by the time leader Mahinda Rajapakse in a sur- former president, who gave himself prise election victory. The new presi- huge powers over all key institutions, dent quit Rajapakse’s cabinet in including the judiciary. Rajapakse’s Sri November to emerge as an opposition Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) split on unity candidate in the January 8 polls, Sunday night when a section of its poli- PESHWAR: Pakistani students of government-run girls school pray for the victims of Taleban attack on the Army Public School, as schools triggering a mass defection of lawmak- cy-making central committee broke opened yesterday in Peshawar, Pakistan. Pakistani children and staff returned to a school in northwestern Pakistan where Taleban gunmen ers. away and pledged support to Sirisena. nearly a month ago killed 150 people - almost all of them students. — AP Analysts have already warned that he Sirisena loyalist Duminda Dissanayake may struggle to satisfy the diverse coali- said the SLFP had appointed the new tion that backed his campaign. As he got president as party leader, though that to work yesterday, Sirisena spoke to top was immediately challenged by the Pakistani school reopens US diplomat John Kerry after pledging Rajapakse camp. to mend ties with the West. The new president has already led the The US secretary of state said biggest defection from any government Washington wanted to strengthen its in Sri Lanka since independence from after Taleban massacre relations with Sri Lanka, which soured Britain in 1948. — AFP Ceremony held at school to mark its reopening PESHAWAR: Pakistani children returned yester- wasn’t until he saw his brother break down in hand with his wife to greet and console the stu- day to the school where Taleban gunmen killed tears as they prepared to go to school that he dents. 150 of their classmates and teachers last month, did as well. Sitwat said both he and his brother Some women brought garlands of flowers clutching their parents’ hands tightly in a have trouble sleeping and often wake up, crying and draped them around the children. Passages poignant symbol of perseverance despite the for their mother. from the Quran were read and the national horrors they had endured. “Those who have done all this to all of us can- anthem was sung while parents, students and It was the first time the school had reopened not be called humans,” Sitwat said, adding he teachers were given a pamphlet about the psy- since the assault and security was tight. The still wanted to go back to school and become an chological impact of terror attacks on children. nation has been reeling from the Dec. 16 terror- air force officer. On social media, some Pakistanis questioned ist attack in Peshawar - one of the worst Pakistan A ceremony was held at the school to mark why top government officials were not at the has experienced. The violence carried out by its reopening, but classes were to restart on ceremony. Teacher Andleeb Aftab, who lost her seven Taleban militants put a spotlight on Tuesday. Security was tight, part of a country- 10th grade son, Huzaifa, in the attack, came in a whether the authorities can end the stubborn wide effort to boost safety measures at schools black dress and head scarf, walking to the place insurgency that kills and maims thousands every in the wake of the attack. Schools around where she had last seen her son alive. She said year. Pakistan have raised their boundary walls, added she chose to go back to school rather than sit at The massacre also horrified parents across armed guards and installed metal detectors, home and keep mourning. the nation and prompted officials to implement although many have questioned why it took “I have come here because the other kids are tighter security at schools. For Peshawar parents such a horrible attack to focus attention on also my kids,” she said. “I will complete the like Abid Ali Shah,yesterday morning was espe- school safety. dreams of my son, the dreams I had about my cially painful as he struggled to get his sons The government has stepped up military son, by teaching other students.” On Sunday ready for school, something his wife used to do. operations in the tribal areas, reinstated the night, 15-year-old Ahmed Nawaz said he is still She was a teacher at the school and was killed in death penalty and allowed military courts to try in constant pain and being treated for his badly the violence. Both of his sons attended the civilians - all attempts to crack down on terror- wounded left arm but that he was determined school. The youngest was shot in the head but ism. But in an attack yesterday, gunmen killed to go back. survived after the militants thought he was seven paramilitary soldiers in the southwestern For the militants, he said he had one mes- dead. Baluchistan province, underscoring the dangers sage: “We are not scared of you.” But in many “A hollowness in my life is getting greater. I the country still faces. families, apprehension mixed with anger. am missing my wife,” Shah said. He said he had In Peshawar, media and vehicles were kept Aurangzeb Khan lost his 16-year-old son in the wanted to shift his children to a different school hundreds of meters (yards) away from the Army attack while his other son survived. or city but decided not to because they still have Public School, which had coils of barbed wire “We all are scared after this incident,” Khan COLOMBO: In this handout photograph received from the President’s Office yester- to take exams this spring: “Everything is ruined freshly installed on top of the compound’s walls, said. “I am not satisfied about what they are day, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena (L) addresses members of parliament here, everything.” and two helicopters circled overhead. The chief claiming or what they are doing for security and at Parliament House in Colombo. — AFP His older son, Sitwat Ali Shah, 17, said it of Pakistan’s army, Gen. Raheel Sharif, was on safety of the children.” — AP Pope visits Sri Lanka Kerry in Pakistan to shore up cooperation ISLAMABAD: US Secretary of State John Kerry arrived in amid hopes for peace Pakistan yesterday on an unannounced visit to press the country’s leadership to step up the fight against extremists COLOMBO: Less than a week after its long- with sporadic violence. During his nine- and eliminate safe havens for terror groups along the time president was surprisingly voted out year reign, Rajapaksa amassed immense Afghan border. of office, Sri Lanka welcomes Pope Francis power backed by a strong parliament, a After landing in Islamabad, Kerry headed directly into today, with the island nation’s Catholic subservient judiciary, influential family meetings with Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his minority hoping he can help heal the lin- members and support within the armed national security adviser to make the case for more robust gering wounds of the country’s 25-year civ- forces, and he hadn’t been expected to eas- efforts against all extremist groups in the country, particular- il war. ily relinquish power even if he was defeat- ly after last month’s devastating Taliban attack on a The war between minority Tamil rebels, ed. But the church remained confident that Peshawar school that killed 150 people, most of them chil- who are mostly Hindu, and the central gov- the elections would pass off peacefully, and dren. ernment, dominated by the overwhelming- as the results started to flow in, Rajapaksa Pakistan has boosted operations against violent extrem- ly Buddhist ethnic Sinhala majority, ended conceded defeat and stepped down. ists in its recent months, notably following the Peshawar attack that stunned the nation. But US officials traveling with in 2009. Catholics make up less than 7 per- “The church always held that the pope’s Kerry said Washington wants to ensure that there is a “real cent of Sri Lanka’s population, but they visit will not be canceled,” said the Rev. Cyril and sustained effort” to limit the abilities of the Pakistani and come from both the Tamil and the Sinhala Gamini Fernando, media spokesman for Afghan Taliban, the Haqqani Network and Laskhar e Tayyiba, communities, making them a potential the visit. which pose direct threats to Afghanistan, Pakistan and India, bridge between the two sides. Francis is expected to meet the new as well as to American interests. Underscoring the impor- On Wednesday, after celebrating Mass in president, and to attend an interfaith con- tance of the security aspect of Kerry’s trip, he was being WATTALA: A Sri Lankan policeman stands guard as front of the billboard bearing the Colombo, the capital, Francis is scheduled ference that will include Buddhist, Hindu joined in his meetings with Gen. Lloyd Austin, the chief of image of Pope Francis in Wattala yesterday. Sri Lanka is preparing to host the pope to fly to the country’s former war zone in and Islamic leaders. Buddhist clergy boy- the US Central Command, which oversees US military opera- who is due to visit the island from January 13 - 15. — AFP the north, where Tamil Tiger rebels fought cotted an interfaith meeting when Pope tions in the Middle East and South Asia. to create a separate homeland. He will visit John Paul II visited in 1995. One Pakistan has been on edge ever since the Dec. 16 attack the Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu, a site that Buddhist fundamentalist group has Lanka’s first saint, Joseph Vaz. The 17th- A United Nations report has said that on the Peshawar school that was claimed by the Pakistani Taleban as retaliation for an army operation launched in draws both Tamil and Sinhala Catholics and been critical of Francis, demanding that he century priest revived the Catholic faith in around 40,000 Tamils may have been killed the country amid persecution by Dutch in just the final months of the fighting. The June in the North Waziristan tribal area. In response, Pakistan has long been viewed as a symbol of unity. apologize for crimes committed during the has boosted operations in the rugged tribal areas, reinstitut- The pope’s visit “will be useful for Portugese occupation starting in the 16th colonial rulers, ministering to both UN human rights body is investigating war Sinhalese and Tamil faithful. crimes allegations against the government ed the death penalty for terrorists and moved to try civilian national unity,” said the Rev. Ravichandran century, but other religious leaders have terror suspects in military courts. Emmanuel, a priest from Jaffna, in the Tamil been more positive about his visit. “It’s a great blessing to witness the saint- and Tamil Tigers. Many Tamils say they The extremists, however, have vowed to keep up attacks heartland. “The message he will carry to the Across Sri Lanka, people were getting hood of Father Joseph Vaz. It is something remain forgotten by the central govern- and just on Friday, a suicide bomber blew himself up outside south after seeing the people here will be ready Monday for the papal visit. Churches we can tell our grandchildren one day,” said ment; they have been barred from publicly a mosque in Rawalpindi, next to Islamabad, killing five peo- important. It will be one of peace and jus- were being spruced up. Flags in the papal Tekla Senanayake, 58, a mother of five as mourning their dead relatives while yearly ple. Pakistan faces numerous obstacles in combatting tice.” colors of yellow and white, and the coun- she swept the church yard in Tudella, a commemorations are held for fallen gov- extremism, not least from networks of hardline Islamist sem- Many Catholics had worried that Sri try’s national flag were strung along the small town on the road from the airport. ernment soldiers. Perera said that with a inaries and religious schools that promote radical ideology, Lanka would not be peaceful enough for a pope’s route from the airport. Jehan Perera, of the Colombo-based new government in office, it was significant and a flawed judicial system that has been criticized for an papal visit because of the Jan. 8 election in Arrangements were being made for the National Peace Council, said Francis will be that a religious leader was taking “the first inability to prosecute and convict terror suspects. India breaking new ground for peace when he step of peace.” reacted sharply last month when an anti-terrorism court which President Mahinda Rajapaksa was tens of thousands expected to attend granted bail to the chief defendant on trial for the 2008 defeated by a former ally turned rival, Wednesday’s papal Mass at the sprawling visits the north and celebrates Mass to “This is the first occasion the country commemorate all those who were killed in will remember everyone, including the attack that killed 166 people in the Indian city of Mumbai Maithripala Sirisena. Galle Face Green park in Colombo. due to lack of evidence. — AP The election campaign had been tense At the Mass, Francis will canonize Sri the civil war. civilians” who were killed, he said. — AP TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 INTERNATIONAL Police kill six attackers in China’s Xinjiang

BEIJING: Police in China’s far-western sive device”, Tianshan said. Congress, said that “several dozen” Beijing, which blames Xinjiang-relat- burqas in public areas in Urumqi, Xinhua Xinjiang region shot dead six attackers They called police, who opened fire Uighurs had been detained by authori- ed violence on “religious extremists”, reported. The measure “is seen as an yesterday, a state-run news portal said, after the attacker tried to set upon an ties in the wake of the incident. “separatists” and “terrorists”, has effort to curb growing extremism that amid a security clampdown in the vio- officer with an axe and detonate the “China’s allegations of a so-called ter- responded by launching a severe crack- forced Uighur women to abandon their lence-torn, mainly Muslim area. device, according to the report. rorist attack are an excuse to cover up down in recent months, with hundreds colourful traditional dress and wear There were no police or civilian casu- The assailant was killed, but soon the excessive use of force,” he said in a of arrests and around 50 executions and black burqas,” the news agency said. alties, according to the report by afterwards five more attackers “sought statement. death sentences publicly announced China denies repression, saying it has Xinjiang’s government-run Tianshan to ignite explosive devices one after the He pointed to China’s “hostile poli- since June. Rights groups argue that brought badly-needed modernisation news site. Xinjiang is home to China’s other”, Tianshan said. The five were “res- cies” in the region as having triggered harsh police treatment of the Uighur and economic development to the vast nine-million-strong Turkic-speaking and olutely” shot dead by police, it added. unrest, without citing specifics. Violence minority, as well as government cam- and landlocked region bordering Central mostly Muslim ethnic minority. China’s ruling Communist Party tight- linked to Xinjiang has intensified over paigns against religious practices such Asia. In December a court in the regional Monday’s clash was triggered when ly restricts access to the restive region, the past year, with at least 200 people as the wearing of veils, have led to vio- capital of Urumqi condemned eight residents of Shule county, near the and information is difficult to independ- killed in a series of clashes and increas- lence. people to death for two deadly attacks, ancient Silk Road city of Kashgar, noticed ently verify. Dilxat Raxit, spokesman for ingly sophisticated attacks in the On Saturday, Xinjiang’s regional legis- one on the city’s main train station and “a suspicious person carrying an explo- the overseas-based World Uyghur resource-rich region and beyond it. lature voted to ban the wearing of another on a market there. —AFP

Firebomb attacks on home, office of HK media tycoon

HONG KONG: Firebomb attacks early yes- The firebombings take place against a terday on the Hong Kong home and office backdrop of increased vigilance at media of pro-democracy newspaper tycoon organisations across the globe after the Jimmy Lai have triggered new fears over deadly attacks on the Charlie Hebdo satiri- the safety of outspoken media figures in cal magazine in Paris. the city. Hong Kong’s Democratic Party called on The attacks came as tension remains officials to act. “Following the terrorist high in the semi-autonomous southern attack at Charlie Hebdo world leaders Chinese city after more than two months of stood up and walked the streets of Paris to protests seeking free leadership elections. participate in a protest against violence. They ended when rally camps were cleared The Democratic Party also urges officials to in December. act to protect freedom of the press,” it said. Lai was targeted during the protests by a group of men who threw rotten meat at ‘Think twice’ him. The headquarters producing his out- Simon said the attacks were “more spoken Apple Daily newspaper were depressing than shocking” and added that repeatedly blockaded to disrupt distribu- Lai, 66, quickly went back to bed after tion. being told what had happened. Other journalists and media workers “He is psychologically prepared for any- have also been victims, including the for- thing. It’s Jimmy Lai,” Simon said. mer editor of liberal newspaper Ming Pao He emphasised that the attacks “in no who was stabbed in the street in broad way compared” to those in France but daylight last February. voiced his fears over the violence. “Peaceful “Anti-democratic forces in Hong Kong disagreement has been a norm in Hong keep resorting to violence,” Lai’s spokesman Kong for so long. Pro-government sup- Mark Simon told AFP. “Violence and intimi- porters should really think twice about this dation seem to be the ongoing currency kind of violence being imported to Hong for those opposed to democracy and free Kong over political issues.” press. There is no other plausible explana- Apple Daily divides opinion in Hong tion here.” Kong, with reporting criticised by some as Yesterday’s two almost simultaneous sensational. attacks came just before 2:00 am at Lai’s “No matter what we think about the home and the Next Media headquarters, newspaper and its content and style, the which publishes Apple Daily. fact remains that it is almost a lone voice PANGKALAN: Indonesian air force personnel carry the flight data recorder of the ill-fated AirAsia Flight 8501 that crashed in the Java Sea, at the “The cases have been classified as among the Hong Kong media in its pro- airport in Pangkalan Bun, Indonesia, yesterday. Divers retrieved one black box Monday and located the other from the AirAsia plane that arson,” a police spokeswoman told AFP, democracy stance,” said veteran television crashed more than two weeks ago, a key development that should help investigators unravel what caused the aircraft to plummet into the Java adding no one had been arrested so far. journalist Chan Yuen-man, now a lecturer Sea. — AP Security camera footage uploaded to the at the Chinese University. Apple Daily website shows a masked man “People in the news media are right to throwing a flaming glass bottle towards the be worried.” Lai was a regular visitor to the gate of Lai’s mansion. It explodes on the protest camps and was arrested during the ground outside as the suspect flees in a car. clearance of the main Admiralty site. He has Divers retrieve one Footage from outside the Next Media been asked to appear at a police station lat- headquarters also shows a flaming bottle er this month. thrown towards the building entrance and Police are targeting “principal instiga- smashing on the ground. tors” of the protests, which called for full There were no injuries. The city’s justice democracy after China declared that candi- AirAsia ‘black box’ minister Rimsky Yuen condemned the dates for the city’s leadership election in attacks. “Regardless of who the target is, 2017 would be vetted by a loyalist commit- the social status, political background or tee. Lai stepped down as chairman of Next stance, Hong Kong as a city with rule of law Media in December following his arrest. He Plane probably exploded before hitting water definitely does not tolerate this,” he said. is still a major shareholder. — AFP PANGKALAN BUN: Indonesian navy divers will be crucial for investigators piecing together weeks to one month,” the NTSC’s head investiga- retrieved the black box flight data recorder from the sequence of events that led to the airliner tor, Mardjono Siswosuwarno, said. the wreck of an AirAsia passenger jet yesterday, plunging into the sea. Over the weekend, three vessels detected a major step towards unravelling the cause of Supriyadi said the wreckage indicated that “pings” that were believed to be from the black the crash that killed all 162 people on board. the plane likely “experienced an explosion” boxes, but strong winds, powerful currents and But there was confusion about what hap- before hitting the water due to a significant high waves hampered search efforts. pened in the final moments of Flight QZ8501, change in air pressure. Dozens of Indonesian navy divers took which crashed off the Indonesian coast on Dec He said the left side of the plane seemed to advantage of calmer weather on Monday to 28, with one official saying the plane probably have disintegrated, pointing to a change in pres- retrieve the flight recorder and search for the exploded before hitting the water and another sure that could have caused an explosion. fuselage of the Airbus. disputing that theory. Forty-eight bodies have been retrieved from The Airbus A320-200 airliner lost contact with ‘No data’ to support theory the Java Sea and brought to Surabaya for identi- air traffic control in bad weather less than Supporting this possibility, he added, was the fication. Searchers believe more bodies will be halfway into a two-hour flight from Indonesia’s fact that fishermen in the area had reported found in the plane’s fuselage. Relatives of the second-biggest city of Surabaya to Singapore. hearing an explosion and saw smoke above the victims have urged authorities to make finding “At 7:11, we succeeded in lifting the part of water. But another official disputed the likeli- the remains of their loved ones the priority. the black box known as the flight data recorder,” hood of a blast. “There is no data to support that “I told our soldiers that the search isn’t over Fransiskus Bambang Soelistyo, head of the kind of theory,” said Santoso Sayogo, an investi- yet,” Armed Forces chief General Moeldoko told National Search and Rescue Agency, told gator at the National Transportation Safety reporters. “I am sure the remaining victims are in reporters at a news conference. Committee. the body of the plane. So we need to find those.” The second so-called black box, containing The flight data recorder was brought by heli- Indonesia AirAsia, 49 percent owned by the the cockpit voice recorder, is located about 20 copter to Pangkalan Bun, the southern Borneo Malaysia-based AirAsia budget group, has come metres away from where the flight data recorder town that has been the base for the search under pressure from authorities in Jakarta since was found, but divers have not yet been able to effort, and then flown to Jakarta for analysis. the crash. The transport ministry has suspended get to it. The black box looked to be in good condi- the carrier’s Surabaya-Singapore licence for fly- “(The cockpit voice recorder) seems to be tion, said Tatang Kurniadi, the head of the trans- ing on a Sunday, for which it did not have per- under a wing, which is quite heavy,” said port safety committee. mission. However, the ministry has said this had Supriyadi, operations coordinator for the search Investigators may need up to a month to get no bearing on the crash. and rescue agency. “So we will use air bags to lift a complete reading of the data. President Joko Widodo said the disaster it. This will be done tomorrow.” “The download is easy, probably one day. But exposed widespread problems in the manage- The black boxes contain a wealth of data that the reading is more difficult ... could take two ment of air travel in Indonesia. — Reuters Pope to travel in ‘jeepney’ during Philippines visit

MANILA: Pope Francis will travel in a different kind and compassion”, the pope will meet with President ties said they foiled a plot to assassinate him. Francis of “popemobile” during his visit to the Philippines lat- Benigno Aquino in Manila and say mass before mil- will also meet Super Typhoon Haiyan survivors on er this week-an open “jeepney”, organisers said yes- lions in the capital’s main outdoor park. the island of Leyte. Haiyan, the strongest typhoon to terday. The iconic jeepney-originally made from con- Security will be tight at the Manila mass as organ- hit land with 230-kilometre (143-mile) per hour verted US military jeeps left behind after World War isers said they were considering jamming mobile winds, brought tsunami-like waves to the central II-has become a symbol of the Philippines and still phone signals and advised the public to bring trans- Philippines, wiping out entire towns and leaving HONG KONG: A woman reads a newspaper at a kiosk in Hong Kong yesterday. serves as a mode of transportation throughout the parent bags instead of backpacks to ease security more than 7,350 people dead or missing in Firebomb attacks on the Hong Kong home and office of pro-democracy newspaper country. checks. During Pope John Paul’s visit in 1995, authori- November 2013. — AFP tycoon Jimmy have triggered new fears over the safety of outspoken media figures One of three vehicles to be used by Francis will be in the city. — AFP built like a jeepney, which is known in the country as the “king of the road” and transports anything from people to farm animals and produce. 29 arrested over Malaysia While jeepney’s are often painted with colourful religious scenes, the pontiff’s vehicle will be plain white, a photograph from the organising committee ‘birthday orgy’ party showed. “We will do everything for his safety,” Bishop Ruperto Santos from the organising committee told KUALA LUMPUR: Police in mainly Muslim AFP on condition of anonymity that all 29 reporters, when asked if the open vehicle could ren- Malaysia arrested 29 people including two were ethnic Malays, who belong to the der the pontiff vulnerable. auxiliary police officers in a raid on an multi-cultural country’s Muslim majority, Pope Francis, who has shunned the pomp of his birthday party which they said yesterday and ranged in age from 20 to 35. predecessors, said earlier this year he prefers to use had turned into a drug-fuelled orgy. “They brought girls, drugs and beer to open-top cars rather than the Vatican’s bulletproof Officers were called to a hotel in the celebrate the birthday party,” the officer said. “popemobile” used by previous pontiffs, which he town of Klang near the capital Kuala Premarital sex and lewd behaviour are called a “sardine can”. Lumpur early Sunday after a complaint deeply frowned upon in Malaysia, which has The jeepney-inspired popemobile is one of two about noise in one of the rooms. Ten traditionally practised a relatively moderate built in the Philippines specifically for this week’s women and 19 men were arrested while brand of Islam yet remains conservative on papal visit. Organisers did not elaborate on the style drugs including heroin, ecstasy and keta- sexual issues. Muslims who are merely of the second vehicle, while the third, the popemo- mine were impounded, police said. caught alone in a secluded place with a bile used in South Korea last year, will be flown into “We suspect it to be a sex orgy cum member of the opposite sex who is not a the country. MANILA: Filipino workers place barriers as they prepare for the visit of Pope Francis in Manila, birthday party,” said North Klang police relation can face up to two years’ jail and a Francis will arrive in Manila on Thursday from Sri Philippines yesterday. Pope Francis embarks on his second Asian pilgrimage this week, visiting chief Mohamad Shukor Sulong. A police fine. Muslims make up more than half the Lanka, marking his first visit to Catholicism’s Asian Sri Lanka and the Philippines exactly 20 years after St John Paul II’s record-making visit to two officer involved in the investigation told country’s nearly 30 million people. —AFP bastion. During the visit, which has the theme “mercy countries with wildly disparate Catholic populations. — AP NEWS TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015

A Syrian man carries wood for a fire in the rebel-held city of Douma on Sunday. — AFP Saudi cleric condemns anti-Islamic... ‘Muslim’ Birmingham remark draws... Continued from Page 1 economy and commerce ministry said on Twitter over Continued from Page 1 describe the statement made by Steve Emerson,” said the weekend that the products went against the “cus- Birmingham lawmaker Shabana Mahmood. “His apology is wel- for everything in their lives, and a cleric who wants toms, traditions and religious values” of Qatar. “Fox News apologises for calling Birmingham ‘beautiful’,” come but frankly the fact that anyone in his line of work could to interfere in everything in the lives of others through The ministry provided no further explanation, but wrote several Twitter users. even hold those views is concerning.” Some 1,500 people have a fatwa,” the user wrote. the reference to Champagne may have been problem- According to the latest census data from 2011, 21.8 percent of signed an online petition demanding an on-air apology to the Sheikh Munajjid had some supporters, however. “It atic given the Gulf state’s strict regulation of alcohol the city’s one million residents are Muslim - one of the highest city’s residents. (building snowmen) is imitating the infidels, it pro- sales. Alcohol is not banned in Qatar but its sale is limit- proportions in Britain. Bemused Britons - including locals known “The city is now called Birming because Ham is not halal,” said motes lustiness and eroticism,” one wrote. “May God ed to certain hotels and bars. Expatriates can buy alco- as “Brummies” - meanwhile mocked Emerson. Under the hashtag Kamila Shamsie, using the popular hashtag #foxnewsfacts. preserve the scholars, for they enjoy sharp vision and hol but only if they have an official licence and earn #foxnewsfacts, user @chris_wilde tweeted a picture of a convoy “Muslims have their own Mecca in Birmingham. They are trying recognise matters that even Satan does not think over a certain amount of money. An employee at the of jihadists waving black Islamic State group flags with the quip: to take over the whole UK now,” tweeted “Moss”. Mecca is a chain “Heavy traffic reported in Birmingham today”. of bingo halls popular with some elderly Britons. about.” Snow has covered upland areas of Tabuk store told AFP that the products had been removed on The 1980s Birmingham band Duran Duran have been forced Many made references to the city’s cricketing tradition. province near Saudi Arabia’s border with Jordan for the Saturday “because of the name”, suggesting that a com- to change their name to Quran Quran, joked @msalimkassam, “Terrifying photo of how a typical Muslim from Birmingham third consecutive year as cold weather swept across plaint may have been made to authorities. while @petermoore said of the city’s landmark telecom tower: guards the city gates against infidels,” wrote “Pavilion Opinions” the Middle East. On its website, Victoria’s Secret describes the product “Birmingham City Mosque is among the tallest and most sacred below an image of cricketer Moeen Ali, who plays for England Separately, authorities in Qatar have ordered bottles as “a tempting, fruity fragrance... with a splash of flirta- in all Islam”. Journalist Rob Crilly, writing also on Twitter, joked and sports a bushy beard, preparing to swing his bat. Another of perfume pulled from the shelves of a lingerie store tion”. A Qatari online news service, Doha News, reported that Birmingham Bullring, a shopping centre, was in fact “where published a picture of Queen Elizabeth II in a kerchief reading: “In after the name of the product - “Victoria’s Secret: separately that perfume bottles featuring the Playboy Christians were put to death”. the UK, the Queen must wear a headscarf by law when she visits Strawberries and Champagne” - was deemed offensive. logo had been removed from another store in Doha. One Twitter user said Birmingham buildings wear burqas and Birmingham.” A third referred to Britain’s unpredictable climate, Perfumes as well as creams and a body mist product Energy-rich Gulf emirate Qatar is deeply conservative posted a photo of a building covered in scaffolding. “Bizarre. joking that Muslims were in fact controlling it: “In some places it’s were all removed from the shelves at one of Qatar’s but also home to hundreds of thousands of expatriate Ridiculous. Nonsense. These are the only words I can use to Sunni, but mainly Shiite”.— Agencies main shopping centres, the Landmark Mall in Doha. The workers who far outnumber native Qataris. — Agencies Debate on free expression rages Govt firm on new diesel prices, but open... Continued from Page 1 2,500 people in Gaza waving his hand?” said Erdogan. “He is Continued from Page 1 yesterday to drop charges against former lawmaker waving his hand as if people are very enthusiastically waiting Saleh Al-Mulla, facing trial for tweets deemed critical In an editorial shortly after the attack, The Guardian for him,” said Erdogan, referring to the images of Netanyahu 170 fils a litre to be in line with international price of HH the Amir and the Egyptian president. “Kuwait chimed in: “The key point is this: support for a magazine’s acknowledging supporters in Paris. or 170 fils a litre, whichever is lower. Regarding plans authorities should also cease prosecutions against inalienable right to make its own editorial judgments does The assault, the deadliest attack on France in half a century, to reduce subsidies on petrol, Omair said that the gov- other peaceful critics,” the New York-based rights not commit you to echo or amplify those judgments.” “Put has sparked a massive show of support, with more than 1.5 ernment will not take any unilateral action on the group said in a statement. Mulla, a liberal former law- another way, defending the right of someone to say whatever million people mourning the victims in the Paris march, issue and will not “surprise” the National Assembly. maker, was detained for five days before being they like does not oblige you to repeat their words,” it said, including several world leaders. In all, nearly four million peo- In a related development, MP Khalil Abul asked the released on bail on Sunday pending trial on Feb 15. after many Western newspapers were condemned by free- ple took to the streets of France nationwide, while thousands speech campaigners for refusing to reprint Charlie Hebdo’s marched in European, US and Canadian cities. oil minister about the names of companies that are He was accused of insulting HH the Amir Sheikh cartoons of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Many were unconvinced by the world leaders’ attendance receiving subsidized diesel from the government and Sabah Al-Ahmad al-Sabah and Egyptian President Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan yesterday blasted in Paris, with London School of Economics student Daniel for what reason. He also asked about the quantities of Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, who visited the state last week. He Israeli Premier Benjamin Netanyahu for “daring” to attend the Wickham publishing a series of widely cited tweets listing the diesel these companies consume on a daily basis and was also charged with endangering Kuwaiti-Egyptian weekend’s anti-terror solidarity march in Paris, accusing him of various moves against media rights made by high-profile also demanded to know the size of the strategic inven- relations. “Mulla’s tweets are nothing more than politi- leading “state terrorism” against the Palestinians. The com- attendees. “So here are some of the staunch defenders of the tory of refined oil products and their averages over the cal commentary,” said HRW’s deputy Middle East and ments were the latest verbal assault against Netanyahu by free press attending the solidarity rally in Paris today,” he past five years. North Africa director, Nadim Houry. “If he is prosecuted Erdogan, under whose rule Turkey’s relations with Israel have wrote, citing a litany of arrests, detentions and beatings of In another development, a number of MPs yester- for these tweets, it will be a textbook violation of pro- steadily deteriorated. “I also hardly understand how he journalists by some of the countries represented at the march. day called on the Assembly to reverse a decision by tected free speech.” (Netanyahu) dared to go there. For once, you give an account Several Asian newspapers, particularly in countries with a the legal and legislative committee which refused to Since a political crisis in June 2012, Kuwaiti authori- for the children, women you massacred,” Erdogan told a joint large Muslim population or where the government suppress- lift the immunity of MP Abdulhameed Dashti to be ties have ramped up efforts to curtail dissent, with press conference in Ankara alongside Palestinian president es the media, condemned the attacks but argued against an tried for statements considered offensive to Bahrain. courts sentencing politicians, online activists and jour- Mahmud Abbas. unfettered free press. The New Straits Times, the English Islamist Salafist MP Abdulrahman Al-Jeeran said the nalists to prison terms for exercising free speech Abbas and Netanyahu, as well as Turkish Prime Minister mouthpiece of Malaysia’s Muslim-dominated government, Assembly must lift Dashti’s immunity to allow the rights, HRW said. In 2014, the authorities used the con- Ahmet Davutoglu, all joined the solidarity march in Paris in published an editorial Monday under the headline “Perils of court to try him for making the provocative state- stitution and a raft of restrictive laws to prosecute at the memory of 17 people killed last week. But Erdogan said free expression”, suggesting Charlie Hebdo got away with ments against Bahrain. The Assembly is expected to least 13 people for criticising the government or insti- Netanyahu had no right to be there after nearly 2,200 what amounted to incendiary hate speech because it had a witness a heated debate over the issue in today’s ses- tutions in blogs or on Twitter, Facebook or other social Palestinians, mostly civilians, were killed in Israel’s onslaught “position of strong influence” in the media.”Charlie Hebdo had sion. media, it added. At least five of those prosecuted were on Hamas-controlled Gaza earlier this year. “How can you see a following and cannot spread what is tantamount to a hate Separately, Human Rights Watch called on Kuwait convicted and sentenced to up to five years in prison. this individual who carries out state terrorism by massacring message with impunity.” — Agencies TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 ANALYSIS

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Focus Egyptian activist abandons politics ahead of polls

By Mahmoud Mourad and Maggie Fick

hen protests erupted in Cairo in 2011, liberal activist Hassan El-Erian quickly mobilised demonstrations in Whis hometown of Zagazig, risking arrest, or worse, to push for democracy. Inspired by the toppling of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and Arab Spring uprisings which removed other veteran autocrats, Erian then contested par- liamentary elections. Nearly four years later, Erian, now 30, is a prime example of disillusionment with politics in the biggest Arab country. Discouraged by what human rights groups say is wide- spread repression and what he says is a disinterested public, Erian, whose father was also an activist, plans to boycott par- liamentary elections in March and April. Egypt’s government describes the polls as critical, the last leg of a roadmap to democracy announced after the army ousted the nation’s first-democratically elected president in 2013. “The street no longer believes in the youth and the revolution. They fear US accused of faux pas over no-show change,” he told Reuters at a cafe near the university in Zagazig, north of Cairo, and a centre for the cotton and grain trade of Egypt. By Jerume Cartillier moment,” a visibly stung Kerry said. “And the Treasury Secretary Jack Lew and Attorney been there, because we must never hesitate Once thrilled by the people power which removed president also went out within hours and General Eric Holder... just had no time in their to stand with our allies,” said Republican Ted Mubarak’s ruthless security forces, Egyptians are now tolerat- o president, no vice-president, no sen- spoke about it.” schedules on Sunday.” The tabloid New York Cruz. Marco Rubio, who like Cruz is seen as a ing tough crackdowns under President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi ior government minister. The absence Yet the absence of a senior US presence at Daily News issued a blunter indictment of the possible Republican challenger for the White for the sake of stability after years of upheaval triggered by Nof a top-ranking official at Sunday’s his- Sunday’s march, which was attended by some no-show in a front-page headline addressed House in 2016, also criticized the absence but the Arab Spring. As army chief, Sisi pushed out President toric mass rally in Paris outraged some US 50 world leaders including the Israeli prime to American officials: “You let the world said he understood the argument that presi- Mohamed Morsi of the Muslim Brotherhood after mass commentators and politicians, with many minister and the Palestinian president, was down.” American officials said the United dential security may have been disruptive. “I protests against his rule which critics say was characterised accusing President Barack Obama of letting greeted with disbelief. Adding to the sense of States was represented on Sunday by the thought it was a mistake not to send some- by growing authoritarianism. down ally France. Suggestions of a diplomatic dismay among some American pundits and ambassador to Paris, Jane Hartley. “Proud to one,” Rubio said. “There are a plethora of peo- The departure of Morsi, whose hometown was near faux pas put US officials on the defensive lawmakers, US Attorney General Eric Holder represent the American people today along- ple they could have sent. I think in hindsight, I Zagazig, was followed by one of the fiercest campaigns Monday, with famously francophile Secretary had been in Paris for a meeting on terrorism, side our French friends in mourning,” Hartley would hope that they would do it differently.” against Islamists - hundreds were killed and thousands of State John Kerry emphasizing he planned but did not join the rally. wrote on Twitter in French on Sunday. Privately, French officials played down the arrested - and then liberal activists. Critics accused Sisi of to head to Paris as soon as his current trip to alleged snub, and the French embassy in delaying the polls to tighten his grip on power by passing ‘Not About Us’ Washington insisted that Paris was fully satis- legislation that curbs freedoms. Mubarak’s former military South Asia is finished. ‘You Let the World Down’ intelligence chief says he is committed to democracy. Speaking in India, Kerry said he would CNN journalist Jake Tapper, one of the tel- US officials also pointed out that Kerry was fied by their ally’s response. “As far as the travel to Paris on Friday, rejecting accusations evision news channel’s main anchors cover- on a longstanding trip to India that made it reactions of the US authorities are concerned, Change in Spirit that Washington had failed to show sufficient ing the attacks in Paris, spoke of his “shame” impossible to attend. Washington officials we have been overwhelmed and very moved Draft legislation further narrows the space for dissent. support to France at a time of national soul- at the lack of high-ranking US representation. also say that the security circus surrounding by them since the beginning of the crisis,” the One bill loosely defines terrorism as anything harmful to searching following last week’s bloody “I say this as an American -not as a journalist, any trip by a US president or vice president mission spokesman told AFP He thanked the national unity. It could give security forces a freer hand to jihadist attacks in Paris, which left 17 dead. “I not as a representative of CNN - but as an may have risked deflecting attention away United States for “numerous public state- crush opponents. Those changes contributed to a change in think I must have been one of the first people American: I was ashamed,” Tapper wrote in a from the spirit of Sunday’s occasion. “For once ments by President Obama, Secretary Kerry spirit in Zagazig, the scene of lively campaigning and fierce in the world to have gone out publicly and blog on CNN’s website. “I find it hard to this is not about us,” a US official said. Yet the (in French !), multiple phone calls at the high- competition during parliamentary polls in 2011 and 2012 spoken to the people of France about this, to believe that collectively President Obama, explanations failed to stem the tide of criti- est level and, of course, the signature of our after Mubarak’s demise. The Brotherhood fielded candidates our shock and horror and our very, very Vice President Joe Biden, Secretary of State cism, particularly from Obama’s staunch condolence book here at the embassy by the and organised rallies, eventually trouncing liberals like Erian, strong connection with the French at that John Kerry, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, Republican rivals. “Our President should have president.” — AFP who says the movement was just as power hungry as Mubarak. Nevertheless, he was happy just competing in polls after growing up in Mubarak’s 30-year dictatorship. There is no sign of that passion now, only a few reminders of In resort towns, working class squeezed out how bitter Muslim Brotherhood members are after suffering from what they say was a coup which robbed them of power. By Nicholas Riccardi with rock stars and millionaires in the 1960s In a drafty apartment building near the city’s university, and 1970s - and today with billionaires and Brotherhood members and former politicians who once promised to transform Egypt are too nervous to talk to jour- t first, Loly Garcia didn’t have to travel hedge fund titans. nalists because many of their comrades are behind bars, far to her jobs in the chic hotels of But many in town grumble about some sentenced to death. Old, red graffiti is scrawled on Athis fabled tourist town. She shared a inequality. The mordant joke is that the bil- walls of the building, where M0rsi once lived. “Sisi is a killer” tiny studio apartment with her father, lionaires are pushing out the millionaires. and “Morsi is President”. brother and a cousin after arriving from El Cheaper eateries frequented by locals are With no signs that Western allies will apply significant Salvador more than 20 years ago. But after relentlessly replaced by upscale restaurants pressure on Egypt to press for the kind of freedom sought in she married and wanted a home of her and high-end shops, and even the Aspen the 2011 Tahrir Square protests, change is unlikely. While own, she had to drive 23 miles west, past realtor’s association office was pushed out activists languish behind bars, a court last month dropped tracts of empty land and vacant mansions of town because it couldn’t afford to pay charges against Mubarak, and acquitted his interior minister and six aides over the killing of protesters in that uprising. whose owners visit only a couple of weeks a the skyrocketing rents in a place where the Erian was detained several times by Mubarak’s security year, to the mobile home park where she average property sale is $5 million. forces for protesting. He now wonders whether his pro- now lives. The drive eventually wore her Frisch said he doesn’t feel the town has democracy efforts were wasted. “The Mubarak regime never down, and she decided to take lower-pay- changed, just income inequality nationally, fell until now,” said Erian who delayed his engineering stud- ing work closer to home. “That commute - which shows up here in a concentrated ies for fulltime activism but is now returning to university. it becomes 10 hours a week. It’s like work- form. “In the 1970s, that upper, upper, ing an extra day,” said Garcia, 49. “It’s hard to upper echelon, they were making 10 times Cost of Resistance live here.” more than the $40,000-a-year teacher,” The repressive climate has made the cost of resistance Resort towns like Aspen dramatically Frisch said. “That same group that shows up higher than ever. Under Sisi’s watch, protesting is riskier than here, they are 100 times wealthier than the ever because of a new law that restricts demonstrations. demonstrate an unnerving trend: Across “The sacrifices in 2011 and before had real outcomes. Now the country, the rich are getting richer while In this Dec 2, 2014 photo, Loly Garcia works on a computer at her home in El Jebel, painter, than the teacher, than the ski bum, the sacrifices are huge but unfortunately fruitless,” said Erian. the rest of the country is essentially tread- Colorado, a small community about 20 miles northwest of Aspen. — AP than they were in the ‘80s. The homes are There are no indications that Egyptians will stage another ing water. From 2009 to 2012, inflation- bigger, the jets are bigger.” uprising, and there is no credible opposition to challenge adjusted income for the wealthiest 1 per- faces prevent the easy development of sub- allows people who have worked for one Ireland, however, warned that Aspen’s Sisi. During Mubarak’s time, the Brotherhood was officially cent of U.S. households surged 31 percent, urbs to house workers, pushing clusters of year or longer in Aspen to rent, or buy, feel is different than a decade or two ago, banned but tolerated and allowed to run in parliament as according to economist Emmanuel Saez of more affordable housing many miles away. cheap residences. when year-round residents lived in all parts independents. That room for manoeuvre is gone. the University of California, Berkeley. For The jobs in these communities are large- of town. “When I moved to town, you could “In 2015, the opposition is in a weak position indeed - its everyone else, income inched up just 0.4 ly in the lower-paying service industry, yet Priced Out rent a room one of those houses on the boycott threats have been largely ignored and the regime percent. In Aspen, the division is especially the resort towns are a destination for the Some of these properties are in prime west end, and the owner would come out does not seem to mind driving Islamists outside the system,” stark because it goes beyond mere money. global upper class, said Bill Hettinger, position, like one-bedroom ski-in, ski-out for the music festival in the summer,” said said Egypt expert Nathan Brown, a professor at George author of “Living and Working in Paradise,” a units at the base of the lifts downtown, Washington University in the United States. “It is not really The wealth gap is also a geographic divide. Ireland, who arrived in 1979. “Now the guy clear that there is an above-ground opposition in Egypt The people who clean the vacation homes, book on resort towns. “In New York City, you added to a new development to comply doesn’t need your $400-a-month and does- today.” Some Egyptians in Zagazig and elsewhere are maintain the mansions’ gardens and work can house your resort workers in the Bronx with the city’s regulations. The properties n’t want you trampling on the carpet.” encouraged by the political landscape. Magdy Ashour, a for- in the hotels must find housing in mobile or Queens. But in Aspen, they’re in Rifle, are allocated in an online lottery. Before the Some here say living amid rampant mer Zagazig MP from Mubarak’s National Democratic Party home parks or subdivisions squeezed into (about 70) miles down an icy mountain Internet age, the whole town was riveted by inequality is just the price one pays for (NDP), said he is excited by the election. Loyalists of the man the few acres of developable space dozens road,” Hettinger said. “That’s the problem suspense over who would win a cherished residing in what locals sometimes call who ruled with an iron fist have a right to compete for seats of miles to the west. A lucky few - about half any resort community faces. It has no mid- affordable home. Names were drawn out of “Disneyland for adults”. Elizabeth Milias, a again as long as they are not corrupt, he said. — Reuters of Aspen’s year-round population of 6,700 - dle-income base to build on.” a hopper, and the event was broadcast live former official in President George W Bush’s are able to score units in the town’s unusual Aspen’s median family income of on the local radio station. Doctors and administration who writes a blog critical of affordable housing program that, on the $71,000 is higher than the state average. lawyers, as priced out of most homes here Aspen’s political establishment, said she open market, would sell for millions of dol- But the further “down-valley,” or to the west, as carpenters and bartenders, take advan- has grown tired of complaints. “There’s that All articles appearing on these lars. you drive, the more incomes drop until you tage of the program. Everyone in town sense that, my God, their lives would have pages are the personal opinion of Meanwhile, residents who struggle to hit Glenwood Springs, 51 miles west, where praises the program for maintaining a criti- been so much better if they lived in the writers. Kuwait Times takes no find affordable real estate watch an increas- the median family income of $54,000 is cal mass of year-round families that give Cleveland,” she said. “Aspen can’t exist with- responsibility for views expressed ing number of houses in town become below average and carpenters, plumbers Aspen a more lived-in feel than many of its out high-end tourists. They signed up for rarely inhabited vacation properties. “It’s a and other laborers regularly spend hours competitors. that.” That’s why Jose Herrera moved to therein. Kuwait Times invites read- mirror image of Detroit, where wealth, not commuting to Aspen. “Most ski towns are 20 and drunk, and these mountains from Mexico. The 25-year- ers to voice their opinions. Please poverty, is driving population down,” said The situation would be worse had Aspen 75 and retired,” said Adam Frisch, 47, an old construction worker can’t afford the send submissions via email to: opin- Mick Ireland, a former three-term Aspen not gone to extraordinary lengths to try to Aspen city councilman, father of two and prices in town and lives dozens of miles [email protected] or via snail mayor. Aspen’s dilemma is similar to that of avoid being hollowed out by the departure former banker who was able to buy a house away in a mobile home park. But he does- mail to PO Box 1301 Safat, Kuwait. other resort towns, from Nantucket, of middle-class and working-class residents. outside the affordable housing program - n’t resent the wealthy. “The company Massachusetts, to Park City, Utah, especially Financed by a 1.5 percent charge on real what’s referred to as a “free market” proper- where I work builds houses for rich people, The editor reserves the right to edit those nestled in the jagged terrain of the estate sales and a mandate that any new ty. The housing program has helped main- and because of that it pays well,” Herrera any submission as necessary. western United States. In the West, vast projects include affordable housing, the city tain part of Aspen’s legend, a place where said. “One way or another, we help each tracts of public land and sheer mountain and county run a 40-year-old program that ski bums and teachers rubbed shoulders other out.” — AP TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 SPORTS

Powell tries new regime Slanging match over referee West Ham look for goals KINGSTON: Jamaica’s Asafa Powell, who has struggled to produce form his MILAN: Serie A was bogged down in another refereeing controversy on LONDON: West Ham United must start scoring more freely again and tight- best at major championships, believes a change in coach and a new Monday as Napoli and Juventus became involved in a slanging match over en up defensively when they face Everton in an FA Cup third-round replay approach to training will improve his fortunes. their match on Sunday. Juventus, 3-1 winners, reacted angrily after Napoli today, manager Sam Allardyce said yesterday. The sprinter who held the 100m world record between 2005 and 2008 president Aurelio Di Laurentiis said a hairline decision which allowed Juve’s The teams drew 1-1 at Goodison Park last week and Allardyce is looking before compatriot Usain Bolt lowered it to 9.58 seconds believes he can second goal to stand was “either bad faith or incompetence”. to guide his team to a first win in six matches. West Ham took the lead in rediscover his form and improve his personal best of 9.72. “Anything is possi- Juve’s win took them three points clear of AS Roma at the top and 13 their last three games against West Bromwich Albion, Everton and Swansea  ble. Justin Gatlin surprised me last year he ran his personal best times of ahead of Napoli, who are joint fifth. “We are tired. Juventus are a strong City but were pegged back to 1-1 on each occasion. (9.77 & 19.68) at age 32,” said Powell, who ended 2014 as the fastest Jamaican team, and if they are helped by the referees, they become unbeatable,” Di “It’s a concern, we are not as free scoring as we were,” Allardyce told a with 9.87 seconds after serving a six-month drug suspension for using the Laurentiis said on Twitter. “It’s unacceptable that six referees cannot see two news conference. “The results have dipped a bit but the performances banned stimulant Oxilofrine. “I think I’m capable of doing a lot more than players offside. Either it is bad faith or incompetence. These six referees haven’t. “One thing that has to happen is we get to more resilient defensive- most of the sprinters out there My best is yet to come, so it’s should be banned for a long time.” Napoli claimed that Martin Caceres was ly. We’re becoming a much more creative side but our defensive weakness- just to be patient,” said Powell who is eying gold at this es have been exploited too much. year’s world championships in Beijing. “I feel a lot offside when he headed Juve’s second goal, although replays showed it was only a question of millimetres, if at all. “In order to win football games you need to make sure stronger, I’m a lot more focused and I think I’m smarter you’re strong enough in both departments. “We’ve only had They were also angry after having a goal of their own disallowed shortly now, so I know what it takes to do it. It’s just to put myself four clean sheets so far and that’s not good enough to keep out there and do what I’m supposed to do,” added the afterwards for a foul by Kalidou Koulibaly on Juve goalkeeper Gianluigi you in the top six.” West Ham have slipped back to seventh in man who has run a world-record 84 times under Buffon. “They taught me a phrase when facing Juventus: ‘It can happen.’ On the Premier League but Everton are on an even worse run 10 seconds. Powell’s brother Donovan, a 100m the offside it is very difficult to tell as Maggio is right behind Caceres,” Napoli having lost four and drawn two of their last six matches. quarter-finalist at the 1997 world champi- coach Rafael Benitez said. “It can happen. They needed a last-minute equaliser from Romelu Lukaku onships, is backing his 32-year-old sibling to “The Koulibaly goal that was disallowed, it can happen. Koulibaly to rescue a 1-1 draw against the Hammers at Goodison last add gold to his two bronze medals from jumped, the goalkeeper fell into him, it was Buffon’s momentum that took week but gave an improved performance to draw 1-1 with 2007 and 2009. —Reuters him towards the defender. It is not a foul.” —Reuters Manchester City on Saturday. —Reuters

ANAHEIM: Jakob Silfverberg No. 33 of the Anaheim Ducks battles for the puck against Toby Enstrom No.39 and Jay Harrison No.23 of the Winnipeg Jets NHL results/standings during a game at Honda Center. —AFP Florida 4, Edmonton 2; Chicago 4, Minnesota 1; Anaheim 5, Winnipeg 4 (SO).

Western Conference Montreal 26 12 3 111 95 55 Pacific Division Detroit 22 11 9 117 106 53 Ducks ground Jets WL OTLGFGAPTS Boston 22 15 6 113 111 50 Anaheim 27 10 6 121 118 60 Florida 20 11 9 100 105 49 Vancouver 23 14 3 113 104 49 Toronto 22 17 3 137 130 47 ANAHEIM: Sami Vatanen scored in the sixth round of the shootout, and Friday night. Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane added two assists apiece San Jose 22 16 5 116 118 49 Ottawa 17 16 8 110 113 42 the Anaheim Ducks rallied from a two-goal deficit in the third period for in the opener of a four-game homestand. Los Angeles 19 13 10 119 112 48 a 5-4 victory over the Winnipeg Jets on Sunday night. The weary Wild dropped their fifth consecutive game, including a 3-1 Calgary 22 18 3 123 114 47 Buffalo 14 26 3 81 147 31 Rickard Rakell scored the tying goal with 2:03 left for the Ducks, cap- home loss to Nashville on Saturday night. Matt Cooke scored his third Arizona 16 21 4 97 136 36 Metropolitan Division ping the first multipoint game of his NHL career with two goals and two goal in the third period, and Niklas Backstrom had 31 saves in his third Edmonton 10 24 9 97 145 29 NY Islanders 28 13 1 131 116 57 assists. Rakell and Ryan Kesler scored shootout goals to keep the game consecutive start. The Blackhawks improved to 3-0 against the Wild this Central Division Pittsburgh 25 10 6 122 98 56 alive after Blake Wheeler and Evander Kane scored early for Winnipeg. season with their second win over Minnesota in four days. Nashville 28 9 4 125 93 60 NY Rangers 24 11 4 124 95 52 Mark Scheifele missed in the sixth round before Vatanen beat Ondrej Chicago 28 13 2 134 95 58 Washington 22 11 8 123 105 52 Pavelec to clinch the NHL-leading Ducks’ third win in four games. PANTHERS 4, OILERS 2 St. Louis 26 13 3 136 105 55 Columbus 18 19 3 104 131 39 Vatanen won it for his fellow Finn after a pregame ceremony honoring Brian Campbell scored the go-ahead goal in the second period, and Winnipeg 21 14 8 113 109 50 Philadelphia 16 19 7 112 126 39 Teemu Selanne, whose No. 8 jersey was retired by the Ducks. the Florida Panthers got two more scores in the third period to win their Colorado 18 16 8 112 122 44 New Jersey 15 21 8 96 124 38 third straight with a victory over the Edmonton Oilers. Dallas 18 16 7 126 135 43 Carolina 13 24 5 88 112 31 BLACKHAWKS 4, WILD 1 Tomas Kopecky, Jimmy Hayes and Sean Bergenheim also scored for Minnesota 18 18 5 111 121 41 Marian Hossa, Bryan Bickell and Brad Richards each had a goal and the Panthers, who are 4-1 through the first five games of a six-game Eastern Conference Note: Overtime losses (OTL) are worth one an assist, leading the Chicago Blackhawks over the sliding Minnesota road trip. Jussi Jokinen added a pair of assists, and Roberto Luongo Atlantic Division point in the standings and are not included Wild. Defenseman Johnny Oduya also scored and Corey Crawford had made 31 saves. Jordan Eberle and Benoit Pouliot scored for the Oilers, Tampa Bay 27 12 4 140 111 58 in the loss column (L). 36 saves as Chicago rebounded from an ugly 5-2 loss at Edmonton on who have won just four times in their last 28 games. — AP Panerai Transat Classique 2015

MARTINIQUE: The epic classic and vintage Once again for the 2015 edition, the honor of partnership with Officine Panerai is a natural yacht regatta par excellence makes a wel- victory aside, the owner of the winning yacht extension of the Florentine luxury sports come return in the New Year. A marvellous will be presented with an exclusive watch watch-maker’s commitment to classic sailing. fleet of grandes dames of the sea casts off from the Officine Panerai collections. Officine Panerai is already the undisputed from the island of Lanzarote recently on a “Racing generates the adrenalin that only leader in that area thanks to its sponsorship of race of over 2,800 nautical miles across the those who push themselves to the limit can the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge, the top Atlantic Ocean to Fort-de-France in ever know. And when you combine the disci- international circuit for such craft. “Elegance, Martinique, the port of arrival for the Panerai pline of sailing with the cohesion of a crew history, artisanal craftsmanship, uniqueness. Transat Classique 2015. working in harmony for a common aim, the The allure of vintage sailing is the product of Three years on from the victory of ocean becomes the most marvellous of play- age-old values which it shares with luxury Bermudan ketch White Dolphin at the finish- grounds,” declared Olivier PÈcoux, president sports watch-making. The Panerai Transat line on the island of Barbados in the 2012 edi- of the Atlantic Yacht Club, which has organ- Classique 2015 is an event that not only tion, the new fleet is preparing for a challenge ized the 2012 and 2015 edition with the tech- expresses those same values but that encompasses not just the courage, pas- nical and organisational assistance of the also encompasses a great passion for the sion and heroism but also the timeless ele- Comet Organisation. sea, a sense of challenge and the audacity of gance that makes every classic boat unique. Started in 2012, the Atlantic Yacht Club’s confronting the ocean”, declared Officine Panerai CEO Angelo Bonati. The transatlantic fleet will include yachts of different sizes from various eras in the history of sailing. The oldest member is the extraordi- nary gaff schooner, Adventuress, built in 1924 by legendary Scottish naval designer William Fife III. At 31 metres in length, she is second in size only to the other Fife schooner racing, the 40-metre-plus Altair built in 1931. The iconic New York naval designer Olin Stephens will also be present in spirit at least, thanks to the 1971 yawl Amazon and the 1975 sloop Gweneven. In the fleet too is a regular from the Panerai racing circuit: The Blue Peter, a wonderfully elegant 1930 Marconi cutter. Classic sailing enthusiasts can follow the race minute-byminute on the www.pan- eraitransatclassique.com website which will be constantly updated and feature detailed information on the event itself, the partici- pants, and the start and arrival ports. The boats should all have made landfall at Martinique by the end of January 2015. TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 SPORTS

MEMPHIS: Phoenix Suns guard Isaiah Thomas (3) loses the ball as he drives between Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley (11) and foward Tony Allen (9) in the second half of an NBA basketball game. — AP Grizzlies outlast Suns, T’Blazers win

MEMPHIS: Marc Gasol scored the first seven points LaMarcus Aldridge had 15 points and nine rebounds, shooting in 30 minutes. Cleveland is 1-8 in its last in the second overtime, Zach Randolph had 27 points and Chris Kaman added 12 rebounds and nine assists nine games to drop to 19-19. NBA results/standings and 17 rebounds and the Memphis Grizzlies outlast- in his fourth start of the season and second against HAWKS 120, WIZARDS 89 ed the Phoenix Suns 122-110 on Sunday night. Gasol his former team. The Blazers have won 27 of their last Kyle Korver scored 19 points and DeMarre Carroll finished with 12 points to help Memphis end a two- 32 games and are a season-best 22 over .500 at 30-8. had 16 to help Eastern Conference-leading Atlanta Atlanta 120, Washington 89; Miami 104, LA Clippers 90; Memphis 122, Phoenix 110 (OT); game losing streak. Mike Conley added 25 points and Kobe Bryant was rested by Lakers coach Byron Scott beat Washington for its eighth straight victory. Sacramento 103, Cleveland 84; Portland 106, LA Lakers 94. eight assists and Courtney Lee had 18 points. Isaiah for the sixth time in 11 games and second game in a Korver was 5 for 7 from 3-point range, improving Eastern Conference Western Conference Thomas led Phoenix with 20 points, but had a costly row. The NBA’s third-leading career scorer, playing in his NBA-leading percentage to 50.2. His smoothest Atlantic Division Northwest Division turnover trying to get the ball into the front court his 19th season at age 36, played in only six games move, however, was a behind-the-back pass to W L PCT GB with the Suns leading late in the first overtime. last season due to a torn Achilles and a fracture in his Carroll for a layup and a 64-54 lead in the third. Portland 30 8 .789 - Markieff Morris added 17 points, Alex Len had 14 left knee. Wesley Johnson returned to the Lakers’ line- Improving to 16-3 at home and 29-8 overall, the Toronto 25 11 .694 - Oklahoma City 18 19 .486 11.5 points and 13 rebounds, and P.J. Tucker, Eric Bledsoe up and scored 17 points after missing three games Hawks got 15 points from Al Horford and 11 each Brooklyn 16 21 .432 9.5 Denver 17 20 .459 12.5 and Marcus Morris had 11 points apiece. because of a strained hip flexor. from Paul Millsap, Jeff Teague and Mike Scott. Atlanta Boston 12 23 .343 12.5 Utah 13 25 .342 17 Tucker’s layup tied it 101 with 5.9 left in regula- has won 13 of 14 and 22 of 24. John Wall had 15 Philadelphia 7 29 .194 18 Minnesota 5 31 .139 24 tion. The Grizzlies begged for basket interference, KINGS 103, CAVALIERS 84 points for Washington and Nene added 14. The NY Knicks 5 35 .125 22 Pacific Division saying Bledsoe pulled the net as the ball was bounc- DeMarcus Cousins had 26 points and 13 Wizards were outscored 33-12 in the fourth quarter. Central Division Golden State 29 5 .853 - ing on the rim. Bledsoe’s 3-pointer with 33.3 seconds rebounds and Sacramento handed Cleveland its sev- They won their previous three games. Chicago 26 12 .684 - LA Clippers 25 13 .658 6 Milwaukee 20 19 .513 6.5 left in the first overtime gave the Suns a 108-106 lead. enth loss in eight games with LeBron James out with Phoenix 22 18 .550 10 The Suns stopped the Grizzlies on the next posses- a strained back and sore left knee. HEAT 104, CLIPPERS 90 Cleveland 19 19 .500 7 Sacramento 16 21 .432 14.5 sion, but Thomas gave away the ball and Lee - fouled Rudy Gay added 23 points for Sacramento. Darren Chris Bosh scored 34 points, Hassan Whiteside Indiana 15 24 .385 11.5 by Dragic - made two free throws with 16.2 left. Collison had 16, and Carl Landry 11. Kevin Love led had career highs of 23 points and 16 rebounds off Detroit 13 24 .351 12.5 LA Lakers 12 26 .316 19 Bledsoe then missed at the buzzer, forcing the sec- the Cavaliers with 25 points and 10 rebounds, and the bench and Miami beat Los Angeles to end a Southeast Division Southwest Division ond extra period. The Suns trailed by 16 in the sec- Kyrie Irving scored 14 of his 21 points in the first three-game road skid. Whiteside was 10 of 13 from Atlanta 29 8 .784 - Houston 26 11 .703 - ond half and 14 early in the fourth quarter. quarter and had seven assists. Timofey Mozgov, the field and 3 of 4 from the line in 28 minutes. Washington 25 12 .676 4 Memphis 26 11 .703 - acquired from Denver last week, had 14 points and Dwyane Wade added 17 points and 10 assists. Blake Miami 16 21 .432 13 Dallas 26 12 .684 0.5 TRAIL BLAZERS 106, LAKERS 94 12 rebounds. JR Smith struggled after scoring 27 Griffin scored 26 points and Chris Paul had 23 points Charlotte 15 24 .385 15 San Antonio 23 15 .605 3.5 Damian Lillard scored 17 of his 34 points in the points in his second game since joining Cleveland in and nine assists for the Clippers. They had won two Orlando 13 27 .325 17.5 New Orleans 18 18 .500 7.5 fourth quarter, leading Portland past Los Angeles. a trade with New York. He had four points on 2-of-10 straight and six of their previous eight. — AP England get Matsuyama, Walker off to a winning start share Kapalua lead

CANBERRA: England’s new-look top KAPALUA: Hideki Matsuyama, helped cult to do. I hope to be relaxed and order all scored half centuries as the by three consecutive birdies on each be able to play my golf tomorrow.” tourists made a strong start to their trip nine, moved one step closer to his Walker, one of four players tied for Down Under for the World Cup with a second PGA Tour victory by surging the lead overnight, burst two shots thumping 216-run win over Australian into a tie for the lead at the Hyundai clear of a tightly bunched leader- Capital Territory XI yesterday. Tournament of Champions on board with four birdies on the front Eoin Morgan won the toss in his first Sunday. nine as he reached the turn in four- match as captain since he replaced the The 22-year-old Japanese, already under 32. sacked Alastair Cook and the tourists regarded by his peers as one of the Though his advantage was briefly wasted no time in piling up 364 for six best iron players in the game, pro- trimmed to one by fellow American in their 50 overs at Manuka Oval. duced near-flawless golf as he fired a Russell Henley, he immediately The top four batsmen-Ian Bell (51), seven-under-par 66 in the third regained a two-stroke cushion by Moeen Ali (50), James Taylor (55) and round on the hilly Plantation Course sinking a 12-footer to birdie the par- Joe Root (56) — all got to the half-cen- at the Kapalua Resort. four 10th. tury mark before Ravi Bopara and Chris Matsuyama, who clinched his However, Matsuyama drew level at Woakes put together a useful unbroken maiden PGA Tour win at last year’s the top with three birdies in a row partnership of 105. Memorial Tournament, signed off from the 13th and Walker did well to Bopara’s quickfire 56 featured four with his eighth birdie of the day at salvage par at the 14th after his tee fours and five sixes, including three in the par-five 18th to post a 17-under shot sailed way right into thick grass. successive balls, and his stand with fel- total of 202 in the elite winners-only Both players birdied the final hole low all-rounder Woakes came from the event. to move two strokes clear of the last 50 balls of the innings. That put him level with American chasing pack. “I hit really good shots Spinner James Tredwell took 3-11 Jimmy Walker, a three-times champi- all the way around the back (nine), a as England made light work of the on on the U.S. circuit last season who couple of bad putts,” said Walker. “I ACT batting, Stuart Broad and Moeen briefly led by two shots on Sunday didn’t feel like I was losing any mo also getting into the act with a cou- but was unable to get the putts to (momentum). ple of wickets apiece as the hosts drop over the closing stretch on the “I was hitting it good. That’s all I were bowled out for 148 in the 33rd way to a 67. was caring about was hitting it good, over. England take on an Australian “I made a lot of putts today, so it getting looks, because eventually I Prime Minister’s XI at the same was a good round,” Matsuyama, who was going to make something.” South ground on Wednesday before the totalled only 26 putts, told reporters Korea’s Bae Sang-moon, among the start of a triangular World Cup warm- through an interpreter. “If I can play four joint leaders overnight, carded a up series also featuring Australia and tomorrow like I did yesterday and 69 to end the day tied for third at 15 India. — Reuters KAPALUA: Hideki Matsuyama, of Japan, putts on the 17th green during the third round of the today, I’ll have a chance (to win). under with American Patrick Reed Tournament of Champions golf tournament. — AP “Obviously that’s going to be diffi- (68).— Reuters TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 SPORTS Nishikori eyes Kooyong title

MELBOURNE: Japan’s Kei Nishikori will hope to use the Kooyong Classic starting today as final preparation for a run at a possible first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. The Asian ace, who has worked himself up to a record-setting fifth in the world rankings, claimed the Kooyong trophy a year ago over Tomas Berdych. Nishikori is now a serious threat in every event he enters thanks in large part to a break- through 2014 season, sparked by his Kooyong win, in which he reached the US Open final against Marin Cilic. Though the Croatian won the title, Nishikori’s AUCKLAND: Caroline Wozniacki plays a backhand shot in this file photo. — AP performance launched the 25-year-old into the tennis elite. The semi-finalist at last week’s Brisbane International is the man to beat at the Wozniacki retires eight-player Kooyong event, which runs till Friday at the former home of the Open, the historic Kooyong Club in the tiny Melbourne neighbor- with wrist injury hood of Toorak. He heads a field comprising Frenchmen Gilles Simon and Richard Gasquet, the Spanish pair of SYDNEY: World number eight Caroline come return to winning ways for Stosur, Fernando Verdasco and Feliciano Lopez, Wozniacki pulled out of her first-round who blew a 5-1 lead in the third set last Ukrainian Alexandr Dolgopolov, Serbia’s Filip match at the Sydney International with a week to lose to American Varvara Krajinovic and Australian hope Jordan Thompson. wrist injury yesterday, just a week before Lepchenko in Brisbane. The Japanese star begins with a match against the start of the Australian Open. “I was pleased with the way I served for local player Thompson, the world number 274 The 24-year-old Dane, who lost the the match,” she said. “After what hap- who won last month’s Australian Open wild-card final of the Auckland Classic on Saturday, pened last week, to step up and serve the playoff to earn a place in the Grand Slam main had already had her left wrist strapped way I did, I’m obviously very happy.” draw. In other day one matches, Simon faces when she was forced to retire at 6-4 1-1 Third seeded Pole Agnieszka Verdasco, Dolgopolov takes on Krajinovic in a down to Czech Barbora Zahlavova Radwanska enjoyed the more clement lat- battle of young guns and Lopez plays Gasquet. Strycova. er conditions to beat France’s Alize Cornet In the wake of his New York success, Nishikori “I didn’t want to do it worse before 6-3 6-2 and reach the second round of a kept up his winning momentum, claiming ATP Melbourne, so I’m just going to try and tournament she won in 2013. The world titles only a few weeks later in Kuala Lumpur fol- get some treatment on it and try and get number five made it clear, however, that lowed by a home triumph in Tokyo at the Japan ready for next week,” Wozniacki told her focus over the next few weeks under Open. And the crowd-pleaser announced his reporters. new coach Martina Navratilova was on presence on the big stage with a semi-final place “I still have a week to go, so hopefully improving on a single semi-final appear- at the season-ending World Tour Finals in London, where he took a set off world number it’ll be fine... I’m confident that I’ll be fine ance at Melbourne Park. “Martina’s going one Novak Djokovic. The Florida-based Nishikori to play in Melbourne.” Zahlavova Strycova to be here tomorrow,” Radwanska said. remains humble about his career, saying that any went through to a second round tie “She’s really helping me on and off court. dream Grand Slam title is likely to come later against local hope Sam Stosur, who had The goal is the grand slams so we’ll see rather than sooner. “Winning might take some earlier progressed with a rain-disrupted 7- how it goes.” time, you need some luck too when you play,” he 6(3) 5-7 6-3 victory over another Czech in In the men’s draw, fifth-seeded said in the run-up to Kooyong. “Hopefully it Lucie Safarova. Former US Open champi- Argentine Leonardo Mayer downed comes and one day I win a Grand Slam. on Stosur had already had her first-round Benjamin Becker 7-6(3) 6-2 to set up a “That’s my dream, so hopefully I can do it in a contest put back a day after wet weather meeting with young Australian Nick few years.” Nishikori takes confidence from last in Sydney on Sunday. Kyrgios or Pole Jerzy Janowicz in the sec- week at Brisbane, where he beat American She held her nerve throughout a ond round. Local top seed Casey Steven Johnson and Australian Bernard Tomic three-hour contest peppered with rain Dellacqua overcame a second-set glitch before falling to eventual finalist Milos Raonic. interruptions and polished off the victory to beat American Lauren Davis 6-4 1-6 6-4 The event, whose past champions include over the world number 16 with a thump- and reach the second round of the Hobart Roger Federer, Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi, ing ace down the middle. It was a wel- International. — Reuters guarantees players three warm-up matches under identical conditions and surface as they will find at the Australian Open, which begins next week. —AFP Past time to show the BRISBANE: Kei Nishikori of Japan reacts after missing a shot in this file photo. — AP players some real money Middle East and Asia boost DALLAS: They’re gathering in Big D to “It’s a privilege to go to school,” the revel in the finale of college football’s Boz said after being announced in the first playoff, a long-overdue idea that is latest class of inductees for the College investment in top level sports bringing in hundreds of millions of Football Hall of Fame. “That school is extra dollars each year to those who run giving you a chance to get an educa- LONDON: A new report has highlighted the flight club Malaga are 100 percent Qatari Qatar Airlines, Manchester City are backed by this supposedly amateur sport. tion. That education can afford you an growing reach and depth of Asian and Middle- owned. Etihad, while Real Madrid, PSG, Arsenal and AC No wonder the guy who oversees opportunity to do some great things in Eastern investment in top-level sports around Abu Dhabi Holdings spent $330 million for a Milan all carry the Emirates logo on their shirts. the playoff sounded so giddy. “College your youth that you’re passionate the world with no sign of any slowdown. 90 percent share in Manchester City in 2008 The United Arab Emirates, whose invest- Football Playoff,” executive director Bill about, but it’s also a 40-year opportuni- Entitled “Emerging Giants”, the report and so far their investment has been rewarded ment was virtually non-existent less than 10 Hancock said, kicking off the champi- ty to create a work environment for you released by sports marketing research compa- on the pitch with two Premier League titles, an years ago, has emerged as the biggest single onship weekend in a hotel ballroom not and your family. I think it’s a give-give ny Repucom on Monday, examines the trend of FA Cup and a League Cup. Likewise, Qatar investor in the sponsorship of European team far from downtown Dallas. “Let me say on both sides of the coin.” investment in sports sponsorship from the Sports Investments spent $130 million for a soccer shirts, the report says. During the that again. College Football Playoff. Give-give? Give us a break. The play- Middle East into European soccer and from 100 percent stake in Paris St Germain in 2011. 2009/10 season, shirt sponsorship by Middle Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?” It sure ers are the ones doing most of the giv- Asia into US sports franchises. Having labored in Ligue 1 for many years, Eastern companies was worth about $24.6 mil- does, especially to those who won’t ing, and they should be peeved that the Across Europe, $1.5 billion has been spent PSG’s new-found spending power has seen lion. In 2014, UAE companies, led by Emirates play a down when Oregon takes on Big Five conferences aren’t pushing to by Middle-Eastern investors and groups on them crowned champions in the last two sea- and Etihad, invested $163 million in shirt spon- Ohio State in late yesterday’s champi- do more with their so-called reform team ownership, while in the last two years sons, while Brazilian David Luiz became the sorship as the Arab state surpassed Germany at onship game. efforts to assist students doubling as alone, Asian businessmen have invested world’s most expensive defender in June when the top of the sponsorship investment table. A new television deal with ESPN athletes. We can only hope that today’s approximately $1.1 billion in US sports fran- he joined from Chelsea for around 50 million Similarly in the United States, Asian invest- gives the conferences and schools an players, and those still to come, will chises, the report says. pounds. Middle Eastern brands have also ment is increasing in sports ownership and additional $320 million per year, a more realize just how bad they’re being English football clubs Manchester City, invested heavily in soccer sponsorship, with sponsorship. Pakistan-born Shahid Khan than threefold increase that brings the ripped off. Hopefully they’ll keep push- Arsenal and Nottingham Forest all have some of the largest European clubs now spon- became the NFL’s first minority ethnic owner Middle-Eastern shareholders, while French sored by Middle East airlines. when he bought the Jacksonville Jaguars in total annual payout to an astonishing ing forward with the unionization effort champions Paris St. Germain and Spanish top Spanish giants Barcelona are sponsored by 2012 for an estimated $760 million. —Reuters $475 million. That doesn’t count any- that started at Northwestern. thing else - ticket sales from an extra It won’t be easy. Many of those who game, additional side deals between once played the game are now willing the bowls and conferences, enhanced to go along with the myth perpetuated College playoff looks a lot like Super Bowl marketing opportunities. for so long by the NCAA. Now, it doesn’t take a math whiz to Just listen to another Hall of Fame NEW YORK: The College Football Playoff was sup- $7.3 billion in guaranteed TV money over the next 12 charged with punching and choking his girlfriend. figure out that all that extra revenue inductee, Lincoln Kennedy, who sounds posed to resolve arguments over who was No. 1 and years - offers plenty of evidence otherwise. Taylor was indicted by a grand jury in November, but should move along the debate about like a grumpy old man yelling at the provide fans with great moments - just as the NCAA But it’s not just about paying players. It’s about that didn’t stop Alabama from signing him in its latest giving the players their fair share, an kids to get off his lawn. men’s basketball tournament has been doing for putting to rest the pretense that football - at least in class of NFL prospects. decades. With more than week of buildup that the top five power conferences - is anything but a big Now two Oregon players are suspended for testing idea that so far has focused on provid- “Personally, I think what’s lost focus includes everything from players suspended for bad business run to keep alumni dollars flowing into uni- positive for recreational drugs. If we didn’t know bet- ing the full cost of a scholarship (trans- in this whole scope of football and behavior to a massive media day, the event the playoff versities and provide the NFL with a minor league sys- ter, it would look suspiciously like an NFL trifecta. lation: let’s give them just enough so sport in the college world is the value of resembles most isn’t the Final Four, but the Super tem at little or no cost to the league. College sports have changed, at least at the top they don’t have to sell autographs to an education,” Kennedy said. “I listen to Bowl. The first playoff games were a box office smash, It certainly is at Florida State, where school officials levels. Big conferences make their own rules, the make ends meet), plus some worthy kids talk about how many times they’re earning tens, if not hundreds, of millions of dollars. kept star quarterback Jameis Winston eligible despite NCAA has been marginalized, and traditions have goals such as paying future education going to be on TV, whether or not the Sponsors lined up to get a piece of the action, while in a woman’s repeated claims - no charges were filed - been tossed aside in the mad and ever continuing costs and providing long-term health team runs a pro-style offense or Las Vegas it was all action as the two games raked in that he sexually assaulted her. Winston was given a chase for television money. care. Granted, that will be a sizeable defense. What type of amenities they the kind of money that only the NFL drew before. slap on the wrist for the theft of crab legs from a gro- The new football playoffs are all part of that, giving chunk of money, but it’s really just have at their facility. Whatever hap- And now exhibit No. 1 is late yesterday’s title cery store and for making vulgar comments about us something that looks suspiciously like a Super Bowl chump change. For kicks, we broke out pened to the education?” game, which is different from the Super Bowl in just female anatomy on campus, but winning a national from the stadium it is held in to the time in between a calculator and found that $320 million Sorry, Lincoln, that horse long since one way: The players won’t be paid a dime. championship for the school trumped everything. the semifinals and the title game. They magnify the divvied up among the approximately left the barn. He ain’t coming back That will likely be changing, thanks to former UCLA If that wasn’t NFL-like, how about the case of for- hypocrisy among those who claim they want college basketball star Ed O’Bannon and the judge in Oakland mer Georgia defensive lineman Jonathan Taylor, who sports at their purest, but then sell out to the highest 11,000 scholarship football players at either, despite the insistence of mouth- who ruled that players on big time football and bas- was dismissed from the team in July after he was bidder. —AP the 129 top-level schools would come pieces such as Hancock who say there’s ketball programs should get at least $5,000 a year for to more than $29,000 a year still something pure and genuine about the rights to televise their names, images and like- When those numbers are tossed big-time college athletics. nesses. Barring a successful appeal by the NCAA, play- around, you can see how big a con that “There will continue to be debate in ers enrolling after July 1, 2016 will get the money big-time college football has been per- the NCAA about how to do better for deposited in a trust fund for when they’re done play- petuating all these years. And when you student-athletes, keeping in mind that ing ball. At that trial this summer, all sorts of dire pic- see how quickly the playoff moved to this has to be part of higher education,” tures were painted about what paying the players reimburse player’s families for the cost Hancock said. “It will not become a might do to college sports. On the witness stand, the of traveling to the games - agreeing in Triple-A for the pros. This is college women’s athletic director at University of Texas said the bat of an eye to dole out around a sports. That is its charm, and none of us she was sure her institution would draw the line at half-million dollars - you realize that want to lose that.” money flowing to athletes because it went against the spirit of amateurism. Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany things can move a whole lot faster that Sorry, when it comes to football and went even further, saying the Rose Bowl could be can- we’ve been led to believe. But the men’s basketball players, they are celed if players got too uppity. “These games are forces against change are strong, so absolutely right to believe that college owned by the institution and the notion of paying many snookered by the ridiculous as a nothing more than a necessary athletes for participation in these games is foreign to notion that a college education is large- steppingstone on the way to the pros. the notion of amateurism,” Delany said. ly a sufficient reward for helping bring Because that’s exactly what it is, a de Well, guess what? The notion of amateurism was in millions of dollars to the ol’ alma facto minor league-slash-deal with the destroyed long ago, when pay for coaches began mater. Even Brian Bosworth, quite the devil worked out by higher education, climbing into the millions and everyone but the ath- rebel during his playing days, now the NFL and the NBA. Well, enough letes started making money off of games. sounds like he’s pushing to be the next already. Show them the money. Some If anyone was still clinging to the idea that some- leader of the NCAA. real money. — AP how big time college sports aren’t also big time busi- ness enterprises, the new playoff system - with the Jameis Winston TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 SPORTS

Look at places, not points: United better off under Van Gaal

LONDON: There’s a simple way of measuring if For Moyes, 37 points was only adequate for sev- a “Plan B” to outwit opponents as he did at the steering United into the fourth round of the FA Cup, there has been any progress at Manchester United enth place during a season when he only spent the World Cup last year with the third-place albeit against weaker opposition. under Louis van Gaal: the Premier League position first week in the top four. And the downfall for Alex Netherlands. The former Barcelona coach talks And Van Gaal’s job seems far more secure than and the points tally. Ferguson’s anointed successor was United only col- about imposing a “philosophy” that remains a mys- his ill-fated predecessor. The air of gloom and nega- After Sunday’s 1-0 loss to Southampton, with lecting 20 points from the next 13 matches. tery to many. Equally mystifying was the complete tivity that pervaded Old Trafford last season has United on 37 points after 21 games, it was On paper, United has the attacking potency to absence of Radamel Falcao from Sunday’s squad gone, and fan dissent has been quelled with a cock- inevitable comparisons would be drawn with Van avoid such a slump in the second half of the season, when United required all the attacking vigor in its sure coach in the dugout. Gaal’s predecessor. After 21 games, David Moyes without the distraction of European football. armory to break through such a sturdy back-four. Publicly, Van Gaal is saying the right things. had also collected 37 points. But the so-called Gaalacticos aren’t always living Paying more than $60 million to turn that loan from Moyes was ridiculed for saying of Manchester City: So after a year of turmoil, despite more than up to their star billing or mega salaries. It was risible Monaco into a permanent deal at the end of the “It’s the sort of standard and level we need to try $250 million spent revamping the squad, United that a team featuring Angel di Maria, Robin van season seems unthinkable at the moment, but pre- and aspire to get ourselves to.” Whereas Van Gaal has made no progress? “You have been waiting for Persie and Wayne Rooney couldn’t manage a shot dicting how the next five months will unfold would just last week issued a typically crowd-pleasing dec- the moment to tell me I have the same points as on target, albeit against a Southampton team that be foolish. “As a coach you have to take decisions laration: “My ambition is that I have the best players David Moyes,” Van Gaal snapped after Sunday’s loss. has defied expectations to rise to third - above and you have to look at the composition of your who can collaborate with each other to form the The Dutchman’s irritability is partly justified. United on Sunday - with the league’s stingiest team and your selection and you have to look at best team in the world.” The priority is restoring United to the Champions defense. your game plan,” Van Gaal said. “We have a lot of The starting point is ensuring strikers perform League, ensuring this is a one-off season jettisoned “They came for a draw, I believe, and they go players who are coming back and (Falcao) has their primary function and find the net more consis- from Europe’s elite competition. So with United in away with a victory,” Van Gaal said. “That is disap- played the last five matches in a row.” tently. Only then will the comparisons with the fourth place, Van Gaal is on target (even if United’s pointing.” United, though, expected it was hiring a Those five games capped an 11-game unbeaten mediocrity under Moyes stop, even though United budget projections are for a third-place finish). manager with the tactical acumen to come up with run in all competitions. Unlike Moyes, that included is in a more elevated league position. — AP Equatorial Guinea braced for Cup of Nations tourney

MALABO: The Africa Cup of Nations begins in and the quality of the venues questionable. Equatorial Guinea on Saturday, with organis- “The accommodation in Ebebiyin and ers crossing their fingers for a successful tour- Mongomo is perfect and ready...there is no nament after a build-up dominated by problem,” the country’s sports minister Morocco’s refusal to act as hosts amid fears Pascual Eyegue Obama Asue insisted last over Ebola. week, before adding that “everything is being The small, oil-rich central African state resolved” to get the stadia prepared on time. stepped in to save the day for the However, Algeria coach Christian Gourcuff, Confederation of African Football (CAF) in whose team will be based in Mongomo in the mid-November when they agreed to host the group stage, admitted his concerns last week, competition, despite having barely two saying: “We know in advance that we are months to prepare. going to have infrastructural problems which Morocco had initially asked the CAF to is why we put back our departure for postpone the event to avoid any risk of a Equatorial Guinea until four days before our spread of the Ebola virus, which has so far first game.” The leading team on the conti- killed more than 8,000 people in the worst-hit nent according to the FIFA rankings, Algeria countries of Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea. find themselves in one of two incredibly However, that request was dismissed, and tough groups, with the Desert Foxes drawn Morocco were thrown out of the competition. alongside Ghana, Senegal and a resurgent And excitement about staging the 16- South Africa in Group C. team event in football-mad Morocco has giv- The winners of that section can look for- en way to hope that Equatorial Guinea will be ward to a quarter-final tie against the run- able to stage a satisfactory tournament. “We ners-up in Group D, which contains much- are disappointed because Morocco is a great fancied Ivory Coast, Mali, Cameroon and country with lovely stadia and fervent sup- Guinea. In contrast, the other half of the draw, port,” Tunisia’s Wahbi Khazri told Le Point featuring Tunisia, 2013 runners-up Burkina Afrique. “Equatorial Guinea is a different Faso and the hosts, lacks the same strength in country and the organisation will be different. depth. Playing down claims that Algeria are We will just have to get on with it.” The the favorites, Frenchman Gourcuff said: “We Equatoguinean government have taken must guard ourselves from any excess of con- measures to prevent Ebola from reaching fidence. It would be a major mistake to listen their soil, including hiring the expertise of a to such predictions.” team of Cuban doctors, At least Algeria need not worry about but as for the football, many matches are Nigeria, with the 2013 champions unable to likely to be played in front of largely empty defend their trophy after surprisingly failing grounds in the former Spanish colony, which to qualify despite a good World Cup. AUSTRALIA: Japan’s Yohei Toyoda is tackled by Palestine’s Musab Battat (left) and Tamer Salah (right) during the AFC Asia Cup soccer match. — AP has a total population of just over 700,000. Record seven-time champions Egypt also The country ruled with an iron fist by pres- missed out, and so others, such as South ident Teodoro Obiang is not a footballing Africa, will hope to make their mark. “I have Kasim inspires Iraq hotbed, although it does have experience of told the players not to fear anybody because organising the CAN, having co-hosted the we have no reason to feel inferior,” said Bafana 2012 tournament with Gabon. The capital Bafana coach ‘Shakes’ Mashaba, who went Malabo, on the island of Bioko in the Gulf of unbeaten through qualifying but have had to Guinea, and the largest city Bata, on the deal with the loss of murdered captain and as Japan hit four African mainland, both hosted games then goalkeeper Senzo Meyiwa. and will do so again, with Bata the venue for Meanwhile, little is expected of the hosts- the final. who face Congo Brazzaville in the opening SYDNEY: Yaser Kasim’s wizardry earned Iraq a 1-0 However, organisers are taking a step into game-after they were initially disqualified win victory Jordan yesterday, while defending the unknown with matches also being played from the competition for fielding an ineligible champions Japan were disappointed despite slam- in the interior towns of Mongomo and player and only appointed a coach in ming four past Palestine. Ebebiyin, where facilities are seemingly scarce Argentine Esteban Becker last week. — AFP The late match between the Middle East rivals looked to be heading for a gritty draw before Kasim slalomed through three defenders to scored via a deflection deep in the second half. It was the touch of class that the game sorely needed and it sealed the points for Iraq as they strive to recapture the title they won in fairytale fashion in 2007. Iraq now sit behind Japan on goal difference after the opening games in Group D and they will have high hopes of reaching the last eight, where they could potentially face bitter rivals Iran. Kasim-style heroics were hardly required by Japan, who have won four of the last six Asian Cups and were up against a team playing in the conti- nent’s showcase tournament for the first time. The match pitched European-based stars against struggling players from the blockaded Palestinian territories, and the Blue Samurai wasted little time getting off the mark in a 4-0 win. Just eight minutes were on the clock when Yashuhito Endo rifled Japan’s opener. Shinji AUSTRALIA: Jordan’s goalkeeper Amer Shafi (right) and Odai Akl Saify of Iraq exchange words Okazaki and Maya Yoshida also scored, either side during the first round Asian Cup football match between Jordan and Iraq at the Suncorp of a Keisuke Honda penalty. Stadium in Brisbane. — AFP But it was not the goal avalanche that some However, we could have been better. “We are not Earlier record goalscorer Tim Cahill was named expected from Japan, 8-1 winners over Uzbekistan satisfied with four goals we should have scored as captain of Australia, deputising for the injured at the 2000 Asian Cup, and coach Javier Aguirre more. We should have played better, especially in Mile Jedinak, for today’s clash with Oman in admitted there was still work to do. going forwards, but overall it was a great result.” Sydney. “It’s amazing, I love playing for Australia “I was happy and satisfied with the defence, but Iraq’s Kasim became the second Swindon Town regardless of which country I’m in but to play at LISBON: In this May 24, 2014 file photo Real’s Cristiano Ronaldo kicks the ball near to I saw some points to improve in attack,” he told player to score at the Asian Cup after Massimo home, in front of my hometown fans and obviously Atletico during the Champions League. — AP reporters. “I expect those points to be improved Luongo also scored a cracker for Australia in the family and friends is very special,” said Cahill. through the training sessions. tournament curtain raiser last Friday. The club “But with me, not a lot of emotion comes into it “What we were missing in the first half was team-mates were both named man of the match. when I cross that white line. I feel that it’s going to Atletico poised to probably speed and mobility, and the missing part Monday also featured the tournament’s first red be a massive game for us... there’s a lot on the line.” I saw in the second half was middle range shots.” cards after Ahmed Mahajna was sent off for Victory could put Australia into the quarter- Man of the match Okazaki said: “As a result with Palestine and Jordan’s Anas Bani Yaseen also got finals, provided South Korea avoid defeat against eliminate Real four goals that was a great win, we played well. his marching orders. Kuwait in today’s other Group A tie. — AFP

MADRID: Atletico Madrid have the perfect not allow that and I am convinced that we chance to lift morale after Sunday’s La Liga will get through,” added the Spain interna- Jagielka eyes Everton defeat at Barcelona when they play their tional. Real, the European and world cham- King’s Cup last 16, second leg at bitter local pions, bounced back from the consecutive rivals Real Madrid on Thursday. Atletico defeats with a 3-0 La Liga victory at home have a 2-0 advantage over the holders from to Espanyol on Saturday. Clubs often use revival in Cup replay last week’s first leg at the Calderon and the Cup to give second-string players a knocking Real out of the competition chance to shine but coach Carlo Ancelotti is would mark the latest triumph for the planning to field the strongest possible LONDON: Everton captain Phil Jagielka says but we still know we have to go out and win chasers Bristol City or fellow third tier side Spanish capital’s second club over their side. “We have time to prepare well for the today’s FA Cup third round replay at West Ham games and get ourselves in a better league posi- Doncaster, with their replay also scheduled for neighbors. Diego Simeone’s men beat Real match,” Ancelotti said after the Espanyol offers his side the perfect chance to step up their tion,” Jagielka said. today. Tomorrow, Tottenham will look to bounce to win the Spanish Super Cup in August game. “The best team will play because we recent mini-revival. “A draw against the champions was never back from their surprise 2-1 defeat at struggling and followed up with a 2-1 success at the will try to turn the tie around and do all we Roberto Martinez’s side have endured a dis- going to be a bad result but the manner of get- Crystal Palace when they face Burnley for the Bernabeu in La Liga in September. can to get to the quarter-finals,” added the appointing season which sees them languishing ting back into the game against West Ham on right to host Leicester in the fourth round. Real then embarked on a Spanish record Italian, who led Real to Champions League at the wrong end of the Premier League, but Tuesday and the manner in which we performed Mauricio Pochettino’s side squandered the run of 22 straight victories before losing at and King’s Cup triumphs in his first season they have shown signs of getting back on track and kept on going against City will make them lead at Selhurst Park in a loss that dented their Valencia in La Liga and at Atletico in the in charge in 2013-14. with a pair of battling draws over the last week. (this week’s draws) really important going for- bid to qualify for the Champions League via a Cup. Atletico fullback Juanfran dismissed “Everyone is looking forward to this A 1-1 draw against champions Manchester ward. “We hoped getting a last-minute goal to top four finish. the suggestion that the defeat at Barca match but we have to remain calm for now. City on Saturday was the second time in four keep us in the cup was the turning point and we And, despite Burnley’s lowly position in the would affect the way he and his team We will prepare and we will be playing at days they had come from behind at Goodison have built on that. “Now it depends how the league, the north Londoners can’t take anything mates performed on Thursday. home which will help us.” This season’s edi- Park after earning a late FA Cup third round next game goes, we need to go and win that for granted against Seam Dyche’s side, who The winners of the tie will almost cer- tion of the Cup is the first time since 1969- equaliser against West Ham in midweek. The City game at West Ham. “We know it is going to be an secured a crucial 2-1 win over QPR on Saturday. tainly meet Barca in the quarter-finals as 70, when teams from lower divisions began result ended a run of four successive league important point for our season and we have to Premier League high-flyers Southampton will the record winners have a 5-0 advantage competing, that only top-flight sides defeats but England centre-back Jagielka knows make sure it is a positive one. “The cup is a lot try to avoid a giant-killing when they travel to ahead of their second leg at Elche on reached the last 16. Valencia and Sevilla are victory against the Hammers at Upton Park in more cut-throat. We will take any sort of win to second tier Ipswich. League One side Bradford Thursday. “However today’s match had on track to meet in the quarter-finals, as are today’s replay is essential to their hopes of a be in the next round.” face Championship strugglers Millwall at Valley turned out, Madrid will want to turn the tie Malaga and Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal more successful second half of the campaign. Everton’s reward for a win in east London Parade tomorrow, with the prize for the winner a around,” Juanfran told reporters. “We will and Getafe. — Reuters “A point was a decent result. It stops the rot would be a trip to either League One promotion glamour tie at Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea. — AFP TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 SPORTS

DENVER: Indianapolis Colts tight end Jack Doyle (left) is knocked out of bounds by Denver Broncos free safety Rahim Moore during the second half of an NFL divisional playoff football game. — AP Colts upset Broncos, Packers beat Cowboys

DENVER: Andrew Luck spoiled another Tom Brady vs. Peyton The Broncos (12-5) are left to deal with the hangover of yet Vinatieri’s 30-yard field goal made it 24-13 with four minutes zone, with part of it touching the field. Green Bay closed it out Manning showdown. Hardly pressured all afternoon, Luck another playoff debacle - and maybe questions about remaining. Luck, who replaced Manning in Indianapolis in before a Lambeau-record crowd of 79,704 on Randall Cobb’s threw two touchdown passes and led the Indianapolis Colts Manning’s future, as well as that of coach John Fox. 2012, will be the only one of the four starting quarterbacks in diving 12-yard reception of a deflected pass on third-and-11. past Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos 24-13 on Manning, who joined the Broncos in 2012 after his release the championship games next Sunday without a Super Bowl That gave Cobb eight catches for 116 yards. Sunday. from Indy, has gone one-and-done in the playoffs a record ring. Green Bay might not have had any time left in its season The Cowboys’ first postseason trip to Green Bay since the The Colts (13-5) advanced to the AFC championship game nine times in his otherwise stellar career, including twice in if not for referee Gene Steratore’s decision on a crucial 1967 “Ice Bowl” for the NFL championship resulted in their first at New England (13-4), which beat Baltimore 35-31 Saturday Denver, where he’s 38-10 in the regular season, but just 2-3 in Cowboys play late in the game. Dez Bryant’s leaping, bobbling road defeat of the season after eight victories. Dallas got 123 night. “I think we’re playing good team ball,” Luck said. “We’re the playoffs. 31-yard catch at the Packers 1 on a fourth-and-2 play was yards rushing from league leader DeMarco Murray and a feeding off each other. Offensively we’re making enough plays Overall, he’s 11-13 in the postseason and this was one of challenged by Green Bay coach Mike McCarthy. Instead of courageous effort from Tony Romo, who hurt his left leg in the to put some points on the board. Great night. So proud to be his worst playoff performances ever. He never found a rhythm, first-and-goal for Dallas (13-5), the ball went over to the third quarter. Rodgers was also bothered by a left calf he a part of the Colts in this victory.” constantly overthrew his receivers and finished 26 of 46 for Packers. “Some people think throwing the red flag is fun,” injured in Game 15, losing much of his trademark elusiveness In Sunday’s other playoff game, a hobbled Aaron Rodgers 111 yards, one TD and no interceptions. Packers coach Mike McCarthy said. “It was such an impactful as the game wore on. rallied the Green Bay Packers from an 8-point deficit with two Luck completed 27 of 43 passes for 265 yards with two TDs play, you had to challenge. It was a confident challenge. And a Regardless, he was on-target for a short pass to Davante second-half touchdowns passes to beat the Dallas Cowboys and two interceptions that were the equivalent of punts and hopeful one, too.” Adams that turned into a 41-yard score to make it 21-20. Then 26-21. no sacks. The Colts stretched a four-point halftime lead to 21- One packed with controversy, as well. “Look, I’ll tell you he sharply guided the Packers 80 yards to the winning points, The Packers (13-4), helped immensely by a video reversal 10 when Luck drove the Colts 72 yards in 11 plays, hitting this, I’ve never seen that a day in my life,” Bryant said. “I want to a 13-yard bullet to backup tight end Richard Rodgers in the of a potentially game-changing Cowboys’ play with 4:06 Hakeem Nicks from 15 yards midway through the third quar- know why it wasn’t a catch.” Because Bryant didn’t maintain back of the end zone. He finished 24 for 35 for 316 yards and remaining, went undefeated at Lambeau Field this season. ter. Luck then drove the Colts 54 yards in 13 plays in the fourth control all the way to the ground, as the rule states. Replays extended his record string without a home interception to They head to Seattle next weekend for the NFC title game. quarter, chewing up more than eight minutes before Adam showed Bryant bobbling the ball as he rolled into the end 442 attempts. He has 39 TD passes in that span. — AP

Anelka ‘too old’ to join Algerian club

ALGIERS: Controversial French strik- er Nicolas Anelka was yesterday refused permission to join an Algerian club on the grounds that he was too old. The 35-year-old former Arsenal, Chelsea, Juventus and Real Madrid star was on the verge of joining Nasr Athletique d’Hussein-Dey (NAHD). But the move was blocked by the Algerian Football Federation, Mahfoud Kerbadj, president of the Algerian professional football league, told APS news agency. “The rules concerning foreign players being allowed to play in the Algerian league are clear,” he said. “Only those aged under 27 and play- ing on the international level for their countries are allowed to sign up with our clubs.” QATAR: In this handout picture released by the Qatar 2015 Organising Committee shows a general view of the Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiya Arena in Doha. Qatar, pushing ahead with its sporting Anelka has been training with ambitions, has completed preparations for hosting the 2015 menís world handball championship which opens in Doha on Thursday. — AFP NAHD and had hoped to sign an 18- month contract with what would have been his 13th club. Qatar ‘ready’ for 2015 handball championship The 69-capped forward’s most recent employers were Mumbai City DOHA: Qatar, pushing ahead with its sporting ambitions, has “childhood.” The cup, made of pure gold, will be offered by Qatar, the success of the championship, Kuwari said that nearly all tickets in the Indian Super League. Last completed preparations for hosting the 2015 men’s world champi- said Kuwari. have been sold. Handball is not as popular as football in Qatar, March he was fired by English side onship which opens in Doha on Thursday, organisers said. but organisers are counting on the foreign communities, which West Bromwich Albion for “gross “The championship will present a big challenge and Qatar is ‘NO FATALITIES’ make up a major part of Qatar’s population, to fill the stadiums. misconduct” after he made an completely ready” to host the tournament, said Qatar 2015 organ- Kuwari also stressed that building of the stadiums went According to the organising committee chief, around 7,000 hand- alleged anti-Semitic gesture, known ising committee director general Thani al-Kuwari. smoothly without causing fatalities in the ranks of thousands of ball fans have arrived from abroad to attend the championship as a “quenelle”, as a goal-scoring cel- “The committee has completed 99 percent of preparations and foreign workers, most of them Asian, who built these facilities. and the number is expected to rise. Qatar, which holds the world’s ebration. only some minor details remain,” he told AFP, three days before the Qatar has come under the media microscope since winning the third-largest gas reserves, sees a new success in its hosting of the That sacking was the latest in a start of the tournament. right to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with doubts thrown up over handball championship. Since successfully staging the 2006 Asian long history of rows and disputes The opening ceremony will take place in Lusail Hall, a stadium corruption, its human rights record and treatment of its massive Games, Doha has fought hard to become a world-renowned over the course of a career which with a seating capacity for 15,000 spectators, while the final foreign workforce. But the gas-rich state was cleared by FIFA of sports event city. saw him play for 11 different clubs in games, scheduled to take place on February 1, will be held in two corruption in November, world football’s governing body ruling It held the 2010 World Indoor Athletics Championships, and for six different countries before head- other stadiums-Al-Sadd Club (7,000 spectators) and Duhail (4,000 out a re-vote for the tournament despite widespread allegations several seasons the opening meet of the Diamond League, in May ing to India. As well as playing in a spectators). Teams from 24 countries will participate in the cham- of wrongdoing. “No fatalities have occurred at our (construction) last year. Doha was named in November as host of the 2019 host of top European clubs, he also pionship and the first match on Thursday will take place between sites, said Kuwari, adding that the Lusail Hall alone took 31 million Athletics World Championships. It hosted the World Swimming had a brief spell with Shanghai Qatar and Brazil. The opening ceremony will bring together 24 working hours, starting from December 2012, to build with 26,000 Championship in December and will host the 2016 UCI Road Shenhua in China. —AFP artists from different countries and will focus on the theme of workers on the site per day, working in two shifts. Confident on World Championship. — AFP Grizzlies outlast Kasim inspires Suns, T’Blazers Iraq as Japan win hit four

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 16 18 Colts upset Broncos, Packers beat Cowboys Page 19

SWITZERLAND: Real Madrid and Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo (center left) poses with his 2014 FIFA Ballon d’Or award for Player of the Year with FIFA president Sepp Blatter (center right) and the other award recipi- ents at the end of the 2014 FIFA Ballon d’Or award ceremony. — AFP Ronaldo wins third Ballon d’Or

ZURICH: Portuguese and Real Madrid great Cristiano The 29-year-old Portuguese forward has been at the surged into the Atletico box and collapsed under the atten- improve and raise the bar of achievement to a level previ- Ronaldo won his third Ballon d’Or yesterday at the FIFA cer- height of his powers again this year, terrorising opposing tions of Gabi. ously thought impossible. emony in Zurich. defences in the Champions League and Spain’s La Liga. He His moment had finally arrived in the homeland he left When he scored his fourth hat-trick of the current cam- The 29-year-old-who played a key role in Real Madrid’s is also hungry for more. Asked at the Ballon d’Or ceremony 11 years ago for Manchester United at a crucial crossroads paign against Celta Vigo in December, he moved through charge to a 10th Champions League trophy-beat eternal what his favourite goal had been, Ronaldo was only half- on the road to being the world’s best. the double century mark for goals in La Liga in just 178 rival and four-time winner Lionel Messi of Barcelona and jokin when he said: “For me the next goal is always the most Inevitably he slammed the penalty home to take his games. Germany’s World Cup winning goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. important.” Despite a patellar tendinosis problem in his left record-breaking tally to 17 goals in a single Champions His overall tally is a staggering 285 goals in 274 appear- Ronaldo was the star of the night in which Real team- knee that contributed to an underwhelming World Cup, the League season. ances for Madrid. It is no longer a question of whether mate James Rodriguez won the goal of the year award and Portugal captain was clearly a deserving winner of a third Yet, his outrageous show of vanity as he tore off his shirt Ronaldo will become their leading all time scorer, but when. Germany’s Joachim Loew was declared coach of the year. Ballon d’Or in a year in which he guided Real Madrid to their and flexed his muscled torso was a reminder of why many Moreover, he is likely to pass Raul’s record tally of 323 hav- “I never thought I would win this trophy on three occa- 10th Champions League title (but first in 12 years) and con- had in the past preferred the more modest Messi. ing played more than 400 fewer games. There is more than sions,” Ronaldo said in his victory speech, signalling there tinued to rewrite the history books. The preening side of Ronaldo will always exist. His latest goals to his game too. His wonderful reverse ball for James would be no letup in his quest for football glory. That night in Lisbon on May 24 illustrated better than Ballon d’Or will likely take up residence in the museum he Rodriguez to open the scoring against Espanyol on “I want to be one of the greatest players of all time and most the two sides of Ronaldo’s character that has at times opened to honor himself in his home city of Funchal on the Saturday took him joint top of the assist charts in La Liga of course this requires a lot of effort,” added the Portuguese made him a divisive figure. island of Madeira. too. As in the goal charts, Messi lurks behind in second. striker who also won the award in 2013 and in 2008. Battling through knee troubles and frustrated for over 90 His story, though, is also one of a testament to extraordi- The rivalry between the two has marked an era unlike Ronaldo led Real Madrid to their 10th European Champions minutes, Ronaldo and his Galactico team mates looked set nary hard work and sacrifice. Ronaldo came from a poor any other. Maradona and Pele, Johan Cruyff and Franz League crown in sensational style in 2014, smashing Messi’s for one of the most embarrassing defeats in Real’s history as background and many would say he has less natural talent Beckenbauer never played in the same league, at the same record of 15 Champions League goals in a single season they trailed poorer city rivals Atletico Madrid until Sergio than the elegant, diminutive Messi. But Ronaldo has trans- time, for the two of the biggest sides in the world, judged with 17 in just 11 appearances. Ramos’s towering header in stoppage time. formed himself from the skinny kid that arrived at Old head-to-head, week in, week out. Cristiano Ronaldo shut out Lionel Messi for the second Further goals in extra time from Gareth Bale and Marcelo Trafford into a physical specimen of the type football has And for Ronaldo, the rivalry is certain to go on-just look straight year in the battle for the Ballon d’Or and he is show- made the long-awaited “La Decima”, a tenth European Cup, rarely seen. at the Ballon d’Or count: Messi has four to Ronaldo’s three. ing no sign of giving up his grip as king of world football. secure in Lisbon. But it was not enough for Ronaldo who That physical transformation is a symbol of his desire to Portugal’s king of football always wants more. — AFP

Messi, Neuer, Ronaldo voted to FIFPro World XI ZURICH: All three players shortlisted Real Madrid, the European champion for the FIFA Ballon d’Or award were also had four players in the FIFPro line- selected by their peers for the 2014 up. Di Maria was a standout in Madrid’s FIFPro World XI team. Lionel Messi, Champions League final victory, against Manuel Neuer and Cristiano Ronaldo city rival Atletico, before joining were among seven 2013 team members Manchester United. David Luiz was the who retained their places in worldwide other World XI player who switched voting by 23,000 members of national clubs last season, moving from Chelsea players’ unions. Germany’s World Cup- to join Thiago Silva at Paris Saint- winning captain Philipp Lahm, Brazil Germain. Brazil failed to get a third play- captain Thiago Silva, and Spain pair er elected as there was again no place Sergio Ramos and Andres Iniesta also for Neymar. The star forward lost out to LONDON: A combintation of file pictures show big English Premier League players who will depart for the Africa Cup of Nations, which stayed in the elite lineup. Robben in a three-man attack with begins this week. — AFP David Luiz was voted into the Messi and Ronaldo, one year after defense despite playing in Brazil’s 7-1 Zlatan Ibrahimovic was the third for- Fates entwined, Toure and Bony lead exodus rout by Germany in the World Cup semi- ward elected. The other 2013 team finals, when Thiago Silva was suspend- members who lost their places were LONDON: Ivory Coast team-mates and probable player was in South Africa. “Yaya is a big miss for us Newcastle United will also lose the services of an ed. Still, the Brazilian pair was reunited Dani Alves, Xavi Hernandez and Franck future club-mates Yaya Toure and Wilfried Bony because of what he has done at the club, but we have in-form striker, with Papiss Cisse having been called for a second embarrassing loss, 3-0 Ribery. headline the departures from the English Premier to deal with that and carry on this run we have been up by Senegal, but he was due to serve a three-match against the Netherlands in the third- FIFPro World XI 2014: Manuel Neuer League for the Africa Cup of Nations, which begins on,” said Toure’s midfield colleague James Milner. ban anyway for elbowing Everton’s Seamus Coleman. this week. Toure, star of Manchester City’s title suc- Swansea City are likely to find it altogether more Newcastle, currently without a manager following the place match. (Bayern Munich/Germany), Philipp Lahm cess last season, made a sluggish start to the cam- difficult to compensate for the absence of Bony, who departure of Alan Pardew, must also cede Ivorian Arjen Robben was picked as the only (Bayern Munich/Germany), Thiago Silva paign, but he has rediscovered his best form in was the league’s top scorer in 2014 with 20 goals and midfielder Cheick Tiote. player from the Dutch team which start- (Paris Saint-Germain/Brazil), David Luiz recent weeks, scoring seven times in his last 11 has found the net nine times this season. But with the West Ham United will lose Senegalese midfielder ed the World Cup by routing title holder (Chelsea/Paris Saint-Germain/Brazil), Sergio appearances. His goals and driving midfield displays 26-year-old poised to complete a £28 million ($42.5 Cheikhou Kouyate, but his compatriot Diafra Sakho, Spain 5-1. Ramos (Real Madrid/Spain), Angel Di Maria will be badly missed by Manuel Pellegrini’s side, who million, 35.8 million euros) move to Manchester City, who has scored nine goals since signing from Metz, are breathing down Chelsea’s necks in the battle for he is likely to have played his last game for Swansea has been ruled out of the tournament by a back Argentina had a second selection as (Real Madrid/Manchester United/ the English crown. already. Swansea manager Garry Monk can at least injury. On-loan midfielder Alex Song will also not be Angel Di Maria joined teammate Messi. Argentina), Toni Kroos (Bayern But the blow has been softened by the news that turn to France international Bafetimbi Gomis, signed taking part in the tournament after being omitted Toni Kroos completed the lineup as the Munich/Real Madrid/Germany), Andres Frank Lampard’s contract has been extended until from Lyon during the close season, but he has found from Cameroon’s squad, which prompted him to third Germany player, and the fourth Iniesta (Barcelona/Spain), Cristiano the end of the season, delaying his arrival at City’s sis- the net only four times in his 22 appearances to date. announce his international retirement at the age of who played for Bayern Munich last year. Ronaldo (Real Madrid/Portugal), Lionel ter club New York City FC. “Bafe is a different striker to Bony, but he is out- 27. Bottom club Leicester City must do without City also coped reasonably well in Toure’s absence standing and I want him to enjoy this period and get Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez, who has had an influ- As Kroos transferred in the offseason Messi (Barcelona/Argentina), Arjen Robben during the last Africa Cup of Nations in 2013, winning some goals,” Monk said. “He is a class striker and now ential role in the team’s improved recent form, but to join Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos at (Bayern Munich/Netherlands). — AP twice and drawing twice while the former Barcelona he is our main striker.” Ghanaian full-back Jeff Schlupp stays behind. — AFP Kuwait inflation sees slight annual uptick

Page 22 Business Volkswagen, Ford take top awards TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 Page 25 Toyota launches ‘Mirai’ McLaren Automotive races ahead Fuel Cell Sedan Page 26 Page 23

DETROIT: Workers prepare the Alfa Romeo exhibit at the 2015 North American International Auto Show yesterday in Detroit. More than 5000 journalists from around the world will see approximately 45 new vehicles unveiled. — AFP (See Page 25) Venezuela, Iran plea hits Gulf OPEC brick wall ‘No output cut, market must absorb the surplus’

DUBAI/DOHA: A diplomatic push by Venezuela stance from OPEC’s November meeting in Vienna. the two countries would meet every four months and Iran for an OPEC oil output cut has failed to “There’s a push from Venezuela for a cut, this is to review the market, a diplomatic source said. The soften the refusal of the group’s Gulf members to what they argued in Vienna and this is what they source added that during Maduro’s meeting in do so for now, delegates said yesterday. An oil price are lobbying for now. But from what I see there is Qatar, concern was expressed about prices but Gulf markets edge sinking under $49 a barrel yesterday is twisting the no sign of cutting production from the Gulf states,” Qatar made no promises or commitments as to knife in Venezuela’s steadily shrinking economy a Gulf OPEC delegate said. what action should be taken. and in sanctions-bound Iran. “The only solution is to have the market absorb OPEC holds its next scheduled meeting in June down as oil drops Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on this surplus and the extent of that will be assessed and sources say there has been no suggestion that Sunday met Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Salman in by OPEC by ministers during their meeting in June.” it gather before then. Saudi Arabia is unwilling to Riyadh before heading to Qatar and Algeria on a Another delegate said: “You need to give it some shoulder any output cut unilaterally and any cut MIDEAST STOCK MARKETS tour to discuss the oil price crisis. Iran’s supreme time to see the effect on prices. I think the Saudi oil has to be a collective one by all OPEC members, leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also weighed in and minister was very clear on that.” the sources said. DUBAI: Gulf stock markets ran out of in Dubai, closed just 1.8 percent high- told Venezuela’s president on Saturday he backed But Libya, Iraq, and Iran can all plead for an steam yesterday after several strong er. coordinated action between Tehran and Caracas to Naimi firm exemption from an output cut since they are either sessions as oil prices fell by more than “You cannot have a clear trend in reverse the more than 50 percent drop in crude Saudi Oil Minister Ali Al-Naimi has said he con- affected by war or sanctions, an argument that $1 a barrel, although positive fourth- the current environment,” said since June 2014.But the Gulf members of the vinced his fellow OPEC ministers that it is not in the some other producers reject. “The only way for any quarter corporate earnings supported Sebastien Henin, head of asset man- Organization of the Petroleum Exporting group’s interest to cut oil output however far prices agreement to work is a full commitment. individual stocks. Brent crude traded agement at The National Investor in Countries, who account for more than half of the may fall. During Maduro’s visit to Saudi Arabia, it Venezuela, Algeria, Iran, Nigeria and Iraq all have to below $49 after analysts at Goldman Abu Dhabi. “The key point is oil prices. 12-member group’s output, are holding to their was agreed that a high-level commission between cut,” another OPEC source said. — Reuters Sachs cut their average forecast for As long as investors don’t think that the benchmark in 2015 to $50.40 a we have reached the bottom on oil, Goldman Sachs slashes barrel from $83.75. the market will be trendless.” Saudi Arabia’s stock index slipped Abu Dhabi’s bourse also edged its oil price forecasts 0.1 percent as shares in petrochemi- down 0.7 percent, while Qatar fell 0.9 cals giant Saudi Basic Industries fell 1.9 percent. Petrochemicals-to-steel con- LONDON: US bank Goldman Sachs slashed it oil forecasts yes- percent; petrochemical industry earn- glomerate Industries Qatar tumbled terday, saying fuel prices needed to stay low for much longer ings are under major pressure from 6.5 percent to 148.10 riyals after plung- in order to curb production and end a global supply glut. Goldman Sachs oil analysts led by Jeffrey Currie said the col- weak oil prices. However Saudi banks, ing its daily 10 percent limit in the pre- lapse in oil prices over the last six months, which has brought boosted by generally positive financial vious session on a disappointing 2014 North Sea Brent crude down almost 60 percent to below $50 a results, offset most of petrochemicals’ dividend proposal. The stock has barrel, would eventually balance the market. losses yesterday. turned technically very bearish after But they said crude oil prices could come down much fur- Saudi Hollandi Bank jumped 2.0 triggering this week a double top ther in the short term, possibly into the high $30s a barrel percent after it beat analysts’ expecta- formed by this year’s highs and point- before the market saw a rebound. Goldman Sachs is one of the tions with a 33 percent rise in fourth- ing in the medium term down to most influential US banks in commodities markets. In 2008, quarter net profit. The lender made about 130 riyals. Oman’s benchmark when oil prices were racing up towards their all-time high at 461.9 million riyals ($123.1 million) in rose 0.6 percent. Investment firm Al almost $150 a barrel, the bank forecast crude could hit $200. the three months to Dec. 31; analysts Anwar Holding, up 4.0 percent, was The bank said yesterday it had cut its 2015 forecast for Brent surveyed by Reuters had forecast it the top gainer after saying late on to $50.40 a barrel from $83.75 and reduced its 2015 WTI price would post, on average, a net profit of Sunday that its profit in the three forecast to $47.15 per barrel from $73.75. For 2016, Goldman 433 million riyals. Banque Saudi Fransi months to Dec. 31 had more than dou- Sachs sees Brent at $70 and WTI at $65, down from $90 and added 1.0 percent after posting a 211 bled to 3.7 million rials ($9.7 million). $80 respectively. In the short term, Goldman Sachs was even percent rise in fourth-quarter net prof- Egypt’s bourse jumped 2.2 percent more bearish: “To accommodate the substantial expected first it, also ahead of analyst forecasts. in a broad rally. GB Auto, the country’s half inventory build and using the storage arbitrage to the biggest listed vehicle assembler and one-year ahead swap, we are revising down our 3-, 6- and 12- month price forecasts for Brent to $42, $43 and $70 respective- UAE, EGYPT distributor, surged its daily 10 percent ly, from $80, $85 and $90,” the bank said in a report to clients. Dubai’s index edged down 0.7 per- limit. The firm’s chief executive told WTI 3-, 6- and 12-month price forecasts have been cut to cent after rising as much as 1.9 per- Reuters last week that it was working $41, $39 and $65 from $70, $75 and $80 a barrel. “While history cent early in the session. Most stocks on a rights issue and planned to invest would suggest that a storage blow-out would push spot prices declined and real estate developer $1.5 billion to build two new factories. below $35, we believe that by avoiding breaching storage DAMAC, which had earlier in the day Yesterday, the firm said the rights issue NICOSIA: A Cyprus airways employee shouts as she is pushed against a police line capacity, the market will hover around $40, potentially dipping surged 21 percent from the last finish would be worth 960 million Egyptian during a protest against the closing down of Cyprus airways at the Ministry of at times into the high $30s which we see as the likely lows of of its London-listed shares as it listed pounds ($134 million). — Reuters Finance in Nicosia yesterday. — AFP this cycle,” the report said. — Reuters TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 BUSINESS Kuwait inflation sees slight annual uptick in November

NBK ECONOMIC REPORT

KUWAIT: Inflation in the consumer price index (CPI) witnessed a marginal uptick in November, mainly on the back of higher food prices. Despite the uptick, inflation remained largely subdued and is expected to end the year at or near 3 percent. The main source of upward price pressures has been international food inflation. Food inflation climbed in November, on the back of a recovery in interna- tional food prices. However, this is projected to sub- side in the near-term in-line with lower global food prices. A strengthening dinar is also set to keep any significant upward inflationary pressures at bay. Inflation came in at 3.1 percent year-on-year (y/y) versus October’s 3.0 percent y/y. (Chart 1). Core inflation continued to ease in November, com- ing in at 3.0 percent y/y after October’s 3.1 percent y/y, as inflation in most of its components slowed down or remained unchanged. Inflation in the food price index rose from 2.6 percent y/y in October to 3.3 percent y/y in November, in-line with a rebound in global food prices. Upward inflationary pressures on local food inflation are expected to subside in the near-term, however, on the back of a slowdown in internation- al food prices. This in turn should help diminish pressures on the overall inflation rate.. Inflation in housing services was unchanged at 4.4 percent y/y in October. With changes in the tenance components held on to their downward Inflation in the ‘other goods and services’ seg- inflation rate of this component reported once trend in November. Clothing & footwear inflation ment continued to show signs of resurgence in every quarter, the next report is due in December. A eased from 1.6 percent y/y in October to 1.1 per- November. Inflation in this segment, which significant change in inflation in this segment is cent y/y in November. Inflation in the furnishings & includes prices of personal care products and jew- unlikely in the final quarter of 2014 and it is forecast household maintenance component slowed down elry and certain business charges, accelerated to 1.0 to remain near current levels. Inflation in the cloth- from 5.0 percent y/y in October to 4.4 percent y/y in percent y/y in November, from 0.2 percent y/y in ing & footwear and furnishings & household main- November. October. Oil plunge may cost GCC billions of dollars in 2015

DUBAI: It’s a weekend morning at the Dubai Mall, growth this year. reforms, designed to push more local citizens a glitzy complex with 1,200 stores, and the shop- “Big infrastructure projects have started and into jobs by making it harder to hire foreigners, pers are pouring in. A traffic jam has formed in the government spending is continuing...We’re not seems to be fading. basement parking area. With passenger arrivals at expecting a slowdown in retail sales this year in “We project real GDP growth in the GCC region Dubai’s airport at record highs, retailers expect a Saudi or the region,” he told Reuters, adding Majid to accelerate in the range of 5.0 to 5.5 percent in good month. Al Futtaim saw no reason to alter investment plans. 2015 from an estimated 4.7 percent in 2014,” said The 55 percent plunge of oil prices since last The cost to the Gulf of cheaper oil is huge. Jason Joannes Mongardini, head of economics at Qatar June might be expected to usher in an age of aus- Tuvey at London’s Capital Economics estimates National Bank, the country’s largest bank. He terity in the Gulf, which faces a steep drop in its that if Brent crude averages $60 a barrel this year, added: “Unless there is a cut in public investments - income. But austerity isn’t happening. The eco- GCC states will run a combined current account which is not expected - in the region, we do not nomic defenses which the Gulf states built up deficit of $60 billion. If oil were at $110, as it was in see a major impact on overall business sentiment” after the global financial crisis five years ago, to June, they would enjoy a surplus of $300 billion. from cheaper oil. cope with just such a drop in oil, are holding. But the structure of the Gulf’s oil industry mini- GCC governments won’t be able to avoid big Consumers are still spending, companies are mizes the direct impact of oil price changes on spending cuts indefinitely if oil prices stay low. investing, and governments are announcing economies. Oil export revenues do not flow With Brent at $50, the current level, all of them record budgets for 2015. Some economists straight to the private sector but to governments, would probably run budget deficits. expect growth in the six-nation Gulf Cooperation which decide how much of them to spend. That But their financial reserves are so large that they Council to accelerate this year. means the key factor for economies is not the oil could cope with such deficits for years; the GCC’s A number of building projects are likely to be price but state budget policy. Government foreign exchange reserves and sovereign wealth slowed or suspended, especially in Bahrain and announcements over the past two weeks indicate fund assets are worth over 160 percent of gross Oman, the smallest and financially weakest state spending may fall marginally in real terms domestic product, Capital Economics calculates. economies in the six-nation Gulf Cooperation this year but will stay high and near record levels. Investment bank VTB Capital estimates that at an Council (GCC). If oil stays at current levels for sev- oil price of $60, the assets of the four big GCC eral years, the big GCC economies may be forced Budget policy states could fund public spending at current levels into painful spending cuts. But for the foreseeable The government of Saudi Arabia, by far the for two to five years, or cover budget deficits for future, it’s largely business as usual in Saudi largest GCC economy, plans to raise nominal 2015 four to 14 years - all without recourse to debt, Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and spending by 0.6 percent from its 2014 plan. Dubai while keeping the GCC’s currency pegs to the US Kuwait, which have accumulated such large fiscal announced a 9 percent spending increase, and dollar. So far, professional investors seem equally reserves that they can comfortably keep state even Oman plans a 4.5 percent rise. Top officials of confident. GCC stock markets dominated by retail spending at high levels. This is sustaining con- other GCC governments, including Abu Dhabi, investors have plunged, but many fund managers sumer and corporate sentiment as oil slides. Jarir, Qatar and Kuwait, have said spending on econom- think they were over-valued. Bond and currency a top Saudi retailer, reported a 20 percent year- ic development will not be cut. forward markets have moved little, showing on-year jump in fourth-quarter sales. December Some governments are using the oil price slide investors don’t expect financial stress in the region. purchasing manager surveys in Saudi Arabia and as political cover to raise taxes or cut subsidies, but John Sfakianakis, regional director of asset the UAE showed non-oil business growing at are stopping well short of austerity. Kuwait cut manager Ashmore in Riyadh, said that after a roughly the same pace as in June. diesel fuel subsidies but ruled out similar action for boom in the past decade, the Gulf was entering Iyad Malas, chief executive of Majid Al- petrol; Abu Dhabi raised utility fees. a new era because of cheaper oil - an era of Futtaim-Holding, one of the Gulf’s top shopping So growth in the region looks unlikely to fall slightly more modest growth, but by no means a mall and leisure operators with over 27,000 much if at all this year, and may actually acceler- slump. “There will still be good growth, not nec- employees, said the region’s business community ate if other factors are favourable. For example essarily a substantial fall - rates of around 4.3 to was uncertain about oil prices but expected solid the initial, negative impact of Saudi labour 4.5 percent,” he said. — Reuters EXCHANGE RATES

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. Syrian Pound 2.710 Singapore Dollar 0.218103 0.224103 UAE Exchange Centre WLL Nepalese Rupees 3.945 South African Rand 0.019621 0.028121 Malaysian Ringgit 87.645 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001861 0.002441 ASIAN COUNTRIES COUNTRY SELL DRAFT SELL CASH Chinese Yuan Renminbi 48.035 Taiwan 0.009116 0.009296 Japanese Yen 2.494 Australian Dollar 233.38 230.38 Thai Bhat 9.885 Thai Baht 0.008641 0.009191 Indian Rupees 4.743 Canadian Dollar 251.88 252.88 Turkish Lira 131.225 Pakistani Rupees 2.929 Swiss Franc 293.73 291.73 Arab Srilankan Rupees 2.221 Euro 350.66 351.66 Bahraini Dinar 0.775237 0.783237 Nepali Rupees 2.969 US Dollar 294.90 297.90 Egyptian Pound 0.038810 0.041910 Singapore Dollar 221.830 Bahrain Exchange Company Sterling Pound 448.33 451.33 Iranian Riyal 0.000082 0.000083 Hongkong Dollar 38.008 Japanese Yen 2.51 2.53 Iraqi Dinar 0.000195 0.000255 Bangladesh Taka 3.768 Bangladesh Taka 3.778 4.048 COUNTRY SELL CASH SELLDRAFT Jordanian Dinar 0.411598 0.419098 Philippine Peso 6.574 Indian Rupee 4.732 5.032 Kuwaiti Dinar 1.000000 1.000000 Thai Baht 8.987 Europe Sri Lankan Rupee 2.227 2.662 Lebanese Pound 0.000146 0.000246 Irani Riyal transfer 61.555 Belgian Franc 0.007677 0.008677 Nepali Rupee 2.958 3.493 Moroccan Dirhams 0.024074 0.048074 Irani Riyal cash 121.740 British Pound 0.439822 0.448822 Pakistani Rupee 2.926 2.790 Nigerian Naira 0.001199 0.001834 GCC COUNTRIES Czech Korune 0.004424 0.016424 UAE Dirhams 80.14 80.60 Omani Riyal 0.759434 0.765114 Saudi Riyal 78.618 Danish Krone 0.042918 0.047912 Bahraini Dinar 782.70 784.77 Qatar Riyal 0.080236 0.081449 Qatari Riyal 80.995 Euro 0.343478 0.351478 Egyptian Pound 41.12 41.72 Saudi Riyal 0.077950 0.078650 Omani Riyal 766.050 Norwegian Krone 0.034479 0.039679 Jordanian Dinar 419.01 424.66 Syrian Pound 0.001748 0.001968 Bahraini Dinar 783.050 Romanian Leu 0.084531 0.084531 Omani Riyal 764.77 772.07 Tunisian Dinar 0.153065 0.161065 UAE Dirham 80.289 Slovakia 0.008649 0.018649 Qatari Riyal 81.21 81.76 Swedish Krona 0.032654 0.037654 Turkish Lira 0.126731 0.133731 Saudi Riyal 78.55 78.95 Swiss Franc 0.284084 0.294284 UAE Dirhams 0.079254 0.080403 ARAB COUNTRIES Yemeni Riyal 0.001331 0.001411 Egyptian Pound - Cash 41.650 Turkish Lira 0.126731 0.133731 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 41.132 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.376 Australasia Tunisian Dinar 157.170 Australian Dollar 0.234344 0.245844 New Zealand Dollar 0.224878 0.234378 Jordanian Dinar 416.070 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate America Al Mulla Exchange Lebanese Lira/for 1000 1.978 US Dollar 291.750 Canadian Dollar 0.243353 0.251853 Syrian Lira 2.101 Canadian Dollar 260.085 US Dollars 0.290600 0.295300 Morocco Dirham 32.385 Sterling Pound 456.630 Currency Transfer Rate (Per 1000) US Dollars Mint 0.291100 0.295300 Euro 366.500 US Dollar 293.950 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Swiss Frank 303.035 Euro 351.450 Asia US Dollar Transfer 294.700 Bahrain Dinar 775.760 Pound Sterlng 447.150 Bangladesh Taka 0.003454 0.004054 Euro 350.990 UAE Dirhams 79.330 Canadian Dollar 249.900 Chinese Yuan 0.046034 0.049534 Sterling Pound 448.240 Qatari Riyals 80.935 Indian Rupee 4.650 Hong Kong Dollar 0.035911 0.038661 Canadian dollar 249.750 Saudi Riyals 77.975 Egyptian Pound 41.095 Indian Rupee 0.004404 0.004805 Turkish lira 128.710 Jordanian Dinar 411.660 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.223 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000019 0.000025 Swiss Franc 291.780 Egyptian Pound 40.707 Bangladesh Taka 3.749 Japanese Yen 0.002409 0.002589 Australian Dollar 244.450 Sri Lankan Rupees 2.225 Philippines Peso 6.528 Kenyan Shilling 0.003276 0.003276 US Dollar Buying 293.500 Indian Rupees 4.716 Pakistan Rupee 2.920 Korean Won 0.000262 0.000277 Pakistani Rupees 2.867 Bahraini Dinar 782.700 Malaysian Ringgit 0.080000 0.086000 GOLD Bangladesh Taka 3.759 UAE Dirham 80.050 Nepalese Rupee 0.003012 0.003182 20 gram 238.100 Philippines Pesso 6.481 Saudi Riyal 78.500 Pakistan Rupee 0.002754 0.003034 10 gram 121.740 Cyprus pound 715.865 Philippine Peso 0.006503 0.006783 5 gram 61.560 Japanese Yen 3.480 *Rates are subject to change Sierra Leone 0.000065 0.000071 TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 BUSINESS

Toyota ushers in the future with launch of ‘Mirai’ Fuel Cell Sedan

KUWAIT: For the second time in a genera- tally-friendly car that is a pleasure to drive 2) Safe and secure vehicle design tion, Toyota has re-imagined the future of and has zero emissions. Based on Toyota’s The Mirai was designed with safety as a mobility with the Mirai1, its new hydrogen steadfast commitment to environmental top priority, based on the basic approach fuel cell vehicle (FCV) which was intro- sustainability, the Mirai was conceived to of ensuring that hydrogen does not leak, duced to the world with its launch in establish a future filled with vehicles that and in the unlikely event that any leaks do Japan late last year on December 15. The would diminish our dependence on con- occur, ensuring immediate detection and Mirai will hit the streets of Europe and USA ventional fuels and reduce harm to the stoppage of hydrogen flow and prevent- in late 2015. environment. With the Mirai, Toyota is tak- ing accumulation of hydrogen within the Using hydrogen an important future ing the opportunity to really make a differ- car body. This has been done by develop- energy source as fuel to generate electrici- ence for future generations with this bold ing high pressure hydrogen tanks with ty, the Mirai achieves superior environ- and inspiring vehicle.” excellent hydrogen permeation preven- mental performance with the convenience tion performance, strength, and durability and driving pleasure expected of any car. 1) Superior environmental performance in addition to hydrogen sensors which The Toyota Mirai is a four-door, mid-size The TFCS provides better energy effi- provide warnings and automatically shut sedan with performance that fully com- ciency than internal combustion engines, off tank main stop valves. petes with traditional internal combustion superior environmental performance with Use of features such as a structure that engines - but it uses no gasoline and emits no emissions of CO2 or pollutants when efficiently disperses and absorbs impact nothing but water vapor. The ground- driving, and the same level of convenience energy across multiple parts ensures a padding on door trims and other interior responsiveness at all vehicle speeds. This breaking fuel cell electric vehicle re-fuels and autonomy as gasoline engine vehicles, high impact safety performance that pro- surfaces, and a high-luminance silver finish provides an immediate increase in torque in about five minutes, and travels up to and a hydrogen refuelling time of about tects the Toyota FC Stack and high-pres- throughout. The front seats provide supe- at the first press of the accelerator, and 300 miles on a full tank. three minutes2. As part of this, the new sure hydrogen tanks during frontal, side or rior body fit and hold through an integrat- powerful and smooth acceleration there- The Mirai uses the Toyota Fuel Cell Toyota FC Stack achieves a maximum out- rear impacts. ed cover/seat foaming production after. Handling stability and ride comfort System (TFCS), which features both fuel put of 114 kW. Electricity generation effi- process5. Eight-way adjustable power are both improved through the location of cell technology and hybrid technology, ciency has been enhanced through the 3) Immediately recognizable design seats for achieving the optimal seat posi- major parts such as the Toyota FC Stack and includes Toyota’s new proprietary FC use of 3D fine mesh flow channels3 (a In terms of the exterior, a new tech- tion and a motorized lumbar support func- and high pressure hydrogen tanks central- Stack and high-pressure hydrogen tanks. world first4), which ensure uniform gener- nique has been employed in the front face tion are installed as standard on the dri- ly under the floor to achieve a low center The Mirai delivers everything expected of a ation of electricity on cell surfaces, provid- design to emphasize the left and right ver’s and passenger’s seats. The center of gravity and superior front-and-rear next-generation car: an immediately rec- ing compact size and a high level of per- grilles that draw in air for the oxygen sup- meter cluster located in the central top lev- weight distribution, as well as the use of a ognizable design; driving exhilaration formance. ply and for FC system cooling. The novel el of the instrument panel includes a high-rigidity body, which features stemming from superior handling stability A new compact, high-efficiency, high- front face underscores the vehicle’s indi- speedometer and multi-information dis- enhanced rigidity around the rear suspen- achieved by a low center of gravity; and capacity FC Boost Converter has been viduality. The elegant side profile evokes play using a 4.2-inch high-definition TFT sion. Outstanding quietness is achieved by quiet but powerful acceleration provided developed to boost power generated in the flowing shape of a droplet of water to liquid crystal display with a design that electric motor drive at all speeds and by the electric motor. the Toyota FC Stack to 650 volts. Increasing express the vehicle’s characteristic of draw- appears to pop out. The battery layout also reduced wind noise, plus full sealing of all According to Takayuki Yoshitsugu, Chief the voltage has made it possible to reduce ing in air and emitting water. The roof-side enables abundant trunk storage space. body parts. The use of sound-absorbing Representative, Middle East and North the size of the electric motor and the num- rails and hood appear to pop out of the and sound-blocking materials optimally Africa Representative Office, TOYOTA ber of Toyota FC Stack fuel cells, leading to body to create the impression of a low-to- 4) Superior handling stability arranged around the cabin, including the Motor Corporation, “The Mirai represents a a smaller, higher-performance Toyota Fuel the-ground vehicle while communicating The high output Toyota FC Stack and use of noise-reducing glass for the wind- pivotal moment in automotive history Cell System, thereby reducing system a futuristic feeling. The interior of the Mirai optimal battery power control drive the shield and all door windows also enhances with Toyota unveiling a new, environmen- costs. has a sophisticated cabin space with soft electric motor and ensure powerful the quietness of the ride.

Qatar’s QNB earnings to be News in brief

lifted by public spending OPEC basket price down to $45.19pb Public spending, rising overseas revenue sustain earnings VIENNA: The OPEC daily basket price went down by 49 cents to $45.19 a barrel on Friday, compared with $45.68 DUBAI: Qatar National Bank (QNB), Laila Sadek, director of financial insti- third-quarter earnings up 21 percent the previous day, the cartel said here yesterday. The aver- the largest lender in the Gulf, is tutions at Fitch Ratings. year-on-year. Like several other Gulf age monthly rate for November hit $75.57pb compared to expected to post another quarter of Analysts surveyed by Reuters lenders, QNB has been focusing on $59.46pb in December, it said. The new OPEC Reference healthy profits today, with high public expect the bank to post an average expanding outside its small domestic Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: spending at home and rising revenue net profit of 2.57 billion riyals ($685 market, a drive which has gained Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Oriente from its international operations help- million) in the fourth quarter, up 8.3 urgency as QNB’s lending profitability (Ecuador), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light President Barack Obama speaks to media in the Oval ing underpin growth. With QNB percent from the same period of 2013. has been squeezed by competition (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light Office of the White House in Washington yesterday.—AP viewed as a gauge of the wider Qatari QNB has been a major beneficiary of from other cash-rich Qatari banks. The (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), economy, the bank’s fourth-quarter Qatar’s increase in public spending in fourth-quarter results will be the first Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venez). During their recent results should signal the state’s recent years as the state invests in since the bank acquired a 23.5 per- annual meeting, OPEC oil ministers decided to maintain Obama drops the resilience so far to falling oil prices, say development projects and prepares cent stake in pan-African lender the cartel’s production level at 30 million barrels per day. analysts. to host the 2022 soccer World Cup. Ecobank in September. It also bought tempered tone of The world’s largest liquefied natu- Qatar expects its economy will Societe Generale’s Egyptian business ral gas exporter, Qatar depends more grow by 7.7 percent in 2015 despite for $2 billion in March 2013 and has a DAMAC shares surge on economic message on shipments of that commodity than the oil price slide, the Ministry of presence in markets including the home market listing oil, although prices of the two are Development Planning and Statistics United Arab Emirates, Libya, DUBAI: Shares in Dubai-based real estate developer WASHINGTON: For most of last year, President Barack Obama closely correlated. Fifty percent said last month. Still, QNB’s year-on- Mauritania, South Sudan, Sudan and DAMAC surged as they listed on the emirate’s bourse tempered his pitch on the economy: It may be improving, he owned by Qatar’s sovereign wealth year lending growth has slipped in Tunisia. Those markets are likely to yesterday, after the company initially floated global would say, but millions of Americans had yet to benefit from fund, QNB’s fortunes are entwined the past two quarters, with delays in widen as the bank aims to achieve a depositary receipts in London in late 2013. DAMAC the rebound. with those of the state, especially as getting infrastructure projects started profit contribution of around 40 per- traded at 3.19 dirhams, up 14 percent from its London But now that caveat is gone, replaced by a bullish new public sector loans account for about partially to blame cent from its overseas operations by close last Friday. It dominated trading volume in message as Obama marches into his second-to-last year. 60 percent of QNB’s lending activity The bank’s low cost base and low 2017 — the year it wants to be the Dubai; the market’s main stock index was up just 0.9 “American resurgence is real,” he says. “Don’t let anybody tell and more 50 percent of its deposit provisioning requirements would help biggest bank in the Middle East and percent. Property firms enjoy richer multiples in Dubai you otherwise.” Despite multiple signs the recovery is indeed base, according to HSBC. “There will shield it from slower credit growth of Africa. than in London. DAMAC’s Friday close was at 5.9 times taking hold, some are saying otherwise, from conservatives to be a positive trend in 2015 in that between 8 and 10 percent in 2015, It is currently second in that geog- its 2013 earnings. Dubai’s biggest listed developer liberals in the president’s own Democratic Party who point to there will be a pick-up in government said Elena Panayiotou, financial insti- raphy by assets, behind South Africa’s Emaar Properties trades at a ratio of 20.5 and its small- stagnant wages and a yawning income gap between rich and infrastructure projects. They can fund tutions analyst at Moody’s Investors Standard Bank. QNB is eyeing acquisi- er competitor Deyaar is valued at 31.8 times 2013 poor. The clashing messages reflect Obama’s need to boost his these projects even with lower oil Service. And despite sluggish lending tions or mergers in markets such as earnings. Before its Dubai listing, DAMAC offered to economic credentials and establish a post-recession legacy, prices and that will provide potential in those quarters, QNB has continued Turkey, Morocco and Saudi Arabia, the allow holders of its London GDRs to exchange them and the desire by lawmakers to push their divergent econom- for credit growth for Qatar banks,” said to post strong profit growth, with its management have said. — Reuters for Dubai-listed shares. The offer closed last Friday and ic policies. DAMAC has not yet announced its result. Obama’s retooled message, which he is unfurling as he approaches his Jan. 20 State of the Union address, comes as the public begins to warm toward the economy. An AP-GfK Qatar reserves reach poll last month found negative perceptions of the economy record high of $46.5bn overall are down compared with four years ago, with 57 per- DOHA: Qatar’s international reserves hit an all-time high of cent describing it as “poor” compared with 83 percent who did $46.5 billion (39 billion euros) in November and are expect- in November 2010. ed to climb higher despite falling oil prices, Qatar National The new tone was evident last week during trips to Bank figures revealed. The latest figure was a jump of Michigan, Arizona and Tennessee, where he touted the gov- almost $7 billion on the level of reserves recorded by the ernment bailout of the auto industry, unveiled new housing energy-rich Gulf state at the same time in 2013. In its measures and called for free community college. This week, he monthly monitor, the emirate’s largest commercial bank is focusing on information technology and cybersecurity with said it expected the new record to be broken in 2015 and events in Washington and Iowa. For Obama, the idea of for Qatar’s economy to power ahead over the next 12 changing his tone on the economy gelled after the November months as it diversifies away from the energy sector. midterm election, aides say. So in the two weeks in December “Growth is expected to accelerate further in 2015 as the before leaving for a Hawaii vacation, he huddled with his eco- implementation of large infrastructure projects and a large nomic team to begin outlining themes for his Jan. 20 State of influx of expatriates continue to drive double-digit growth the Union address and recast his rhetoric. in the non-hydrocarbon sector,” QNB said. His audience, aides say, is the two-thirds of voters who were too disgruntled to cast ballots in November. “They need to understand that there are reasons to be optimistic, that Banque Saudi Fransi there is true, tangible, solid growth and that we believe it’s Q4 profit rises 211% going to portend good things,” White House communications RIYADH: Banque Saudi Fransi, part-owned by Credit director Jennifer Palmieri said in an interview. Agricole, posted a 211 percent rise in fourth-quarter Some White House allies say there is a risk Obama’s new net profit yesterday, beating analyst forecasts. Saudi message won’t resonate, or may even backfire, if he doesn’t Arabia’s fifth-largest bank by assets made 851 million acknowledge many Americans are still struggling. riyals ($226.68 million) in the three months to Dec. 31, “He’s got to paint a picture of why there are continued up from 274 million riyals in the same period a year problems and what can be done about it,” said Lawrence earlier, according to a statement to Riyadh’s bourse. Mishel, an economist and president of the liberal-leaning Analysts polled by Reuters on average forecast the Economic Policy Institute. bank would make a quarterly profit of 780.47 million But White House officials no longer worry that optimistic riyals. The bank attributed its profit rise to higher oper- assessments of the economy will seem tin-eared or that bright ATHENS: A woman walks past a shop in central Athens on the first day of the winter sales yesterday. Global mar- ating income and a drop in expenses. Saudi companies economic news will sour; concerns they still felt after encour- kets have been shaken by fears that Greece could abandon the euro if radical left-wing Syriza party wins the elec- issue brief earnings statements early in the reporting aging first quarters in 2010, 2011 and even 2012.—AP tion on January 25. — AFP period before publishing more detailed results later. BUSINESS TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 Europe stocks gain, Asia falls

BEIJING: European stock markets were higher looked set to recover some of Friday’s losses. percent, leading the gains in the FTSE 100 , Pharmaceuticals for $5.2 billion. hiring is expected to propel the economy yesterday while Asian markets fell as investors Dow futures were up 0.4 percent at 17,718 and after Credit Suisse raised its price target for the Acquiring New Jersey-based NPS will this year to its fastest growth in a decade. digested another slide in the price of oil and S&P 500 futures rose 0.4 percent to 2,042.80. stock to 410 pence from 380 pence and reiter- give Shire two important new drugs. Its The gains are putting further distance strong hiring in the US. Britain’s top share index rose yesterday, as ated its “outperform” rating. shares rose nearly 2 percent in early trad- between the strengthening American KEEPING SCORE: Germany’s DAX rose 1.1 falling crude oil prices boosted cruise operator Stocks were also helped by speculation of ing but retreated later as investors scruti- economy and struggling nations over- percent to 9,751.14 and France’s CAC-40 Carnival and British engineering company further mergers and acquisitions among drug nised the financial implications of the seas. But there was one discouraging added 1.1 percent to 4,223.56. London’s FTSE GKN gained after a leading investment bank companies, after the Dublin-based drugmaker deal. The takeover continues the deal- sign: hourly pay declined by 5 cents in 100 rose 0.6 percent to 6,537.72. Wall Street improved its rating for the shares. GKN rose 2.6 Shire said it had agreed to buy NPS making of 2014 among drug companies, December. as they jockey for promising assets amid ENERGY: Oil slipped below $48 a bar- a wave of new drugs emerging from rel yesterday and is down 44 percent in research laboratories. the past three months, reflecting high “Healthcare remains top of the list in supplies and muted demand from much terms of likely M&A activity, with Shire of the world. Benchmark US crude was news reinforcing this expectation,” said down 98 cents at $47.38 per barrel in Keith Bowman, an equity analyst at electronic trading on the New York Hargreaves Lansdown. “The NPS takeover Mercantile Exchange. The contract shed will give Shire two significant new drugs, 43 cents on Friday to close at $48.36. diversifying Shire’s drug portfolio further. Brent crude, used to price international “Some beneficiaries of a lower oil oils, fell $1.39 to $48.72 in London after 0RQGD\-DQXDU\ price, such as Carnival, are adding to the losing 85 cents on Friday to $50.11. market’s upside.” Holiday cruise company THE QUOTE: “If lower oil prices owe to ,QGH[ &KDQJH &ORVLQJ /DVW&ORVLQJ +LJK /RZ Carnival rose 2.4 percent, the second- a surge in supply, that would be the end 3ULFHLQGH[ ź      9ROXPH  biggest gainer in the FTSE 100 index, of it and the global economy would be so :HLJKWHG,QGH[ Ÿ     9DOXH .:'  after oil prices fell further following a cut much the better off in the end,” said DBS .6; Ÿ   1XPEHURI7UDGHV  in short-term forecasts by Goldman Group in a report. “But if prices are down Sachs. Oil prices are at their lowest since because of weak demand instead, all bets April 2009 and have fallen for seven are off. Economies, including the US, 7UDGHV 7UDGHV straight weeks. would be no better off.” 6HFXULW\ +LJK /RZ 9ROXPH 9DOXH .' 7UDGHV /DVW &KDQJH 6HFXULW\ +LJK /RZ 9ROXPH 9DOXH .' 7UDGHV /DVW &KDQJH The benchmark FTSE 100 index was up ASIA’S DAY: The Shanghai Composite

0$5,1       ŷ  62.28.       ŷ  0.3 percent at 6,521.13 points by 0914 Index lost 1.7 percent to 3,229.32 and ,.$586       Ÿ  .5(       ź  GMT after falling more than 1 percent in Seoul’s Kospi shed 0.2 percent to ,3*      ŷ  85&       ź  the previous session. However, energy 1,920.95. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng added 1$3(6&2       ŷ  15(       Ÿ  shares were under pressure, with the UK 0.5 percent to 24,045.96. Benchmarks in (1(5*<+       Ÿ  65(     ŷ  oil and gas index falling 0.6 percent. Sydney, Taiwan, Manila and Jakarta *3,      ź  3($5/       ź  US ECONOMY: A healthy month of declined while Singapore and New $%$5     ŷ  7$0       ŷ  2LO *DV     ź  $5((&       Ÿ  hiring in December capped the best year Zealand rose. Tokyo was closed for a pub- 0$66$/(+       ŷ  for US job growth since 1999, demon- lic holiday. .)28&       ŷ  $5$%5(&       Ÿ  strating that employers are more confi- CURRENCIES: The euro fell to %3&&       ŷ  85(&     ŷ  dent than they’ve been since the Great $1.1811 from $1.1844 late Friday. The $/.287       ŷ  (5(6&2       Ÿ  Recession began. Nearly 3 million jobs dollar rose to 118.81 yen from 118.54 $/485$,1       ŷ  0$%$1((       ŷ  were added in 2014, and continued solid yen. — Agencies %DVLF0DWHULDOV     ŷ  ,1-$==$7       ŷ  ,19(67256       ź  .&(0       ŷ  ,5&       Ÿ  5()5,       ŷ  $/7,-$5,$       ŷ  &$%/(      ŷ  6$1$0       ź  Oil prices sink further, 6+,3       ŷ  $$<$15(       Ÿ  3&(0       ź  $4$5       ŷ  3$3(5       ŷ  $/$4$5,$     ŷ  dollar hit by wage data 05&       ŷ  0$=$<$       Ÿ  $&,&2       ŷ  $'1&       ŷ  HONG KONG: Oil prices tumbled again China and the euro-zone adding to the **0&       ŷ  7+(0$5       ŷ  yesterday, while most Asian stock mar- supply and demand crisis. Wall Street +&&       ŷ  7,-$5$       ź  kets also retreated after a sell-off in provided a negative lead for stock mar- .3$.       ŷ  7$$0((5       ź  New York at the end of last week in kets after figures showed US wages .%00&     ŷ  $5.$1       Ÿ  1,&%0       ŷ  $5*$1       Ÿ  response to data showing weak US grew 1.7 percent year-on-year in (48,30(17       Ÿ  $%<$$5       Ÿ  wage growth. December, barely keeping up with 1&&,     ŷ  0816+$$7       ź  The news on wages, which over- inflation and indicating consumer *<3680       ŷ  ),567'8%$,       Ÿ  shadowed another forecast-beating spending power remained low. 6$/%22.+       Ÿ  .%7       ź  rise in job creation, pushed the dollar The Dow slipped 0.95 percent Friday, $*/7<       ŷ  5($0     ŷ  down against the euro because it com- the S&P 500 fell 0.84 percent and the ('8       ŷ  0(1$       ź  &/($1,1*       Ÿ  $/08'21       Ÿ  plicates the Federal Reserve’s plans to Nasdaq lost 0.68 percent. &,7<*5283       Ÿ  0$5$.(=       ź  raise interest rates. .*/       Ÿ  5(0$/       ź  Sydney fell 0.78 percent, or 42.9 Euro up against dollar .&3&       ŷ  0$6+$(5       ŷ  points, to close at 5,422.7 and Seoul Traders latched on to the data, +80$162)7       ŷ  5HDO(VWDWH     ź  closed 0.19 percent lower, or 3.75 ignoring the fact that unemployment 1$)$,6       ŷ  points, at 1,920.95. Shanghai-which has fell to 5.6 percent, the lowest level in six 6$):$1     ŷ  .,19       ź  *)&       ź  )$&,/       ŷ  surged more than 50 percent over the and a half years, while 252,000 new 0$<$'((1       Ÿ  ,)$       Ÿ  past year-slipped 1.71 percent, or 56.09 posts were created in December to cap &*&       ŷ  1,19       ŷ  points, to 3,229.32. the best year for job creation since 07&&       ź  .352-      ŷ  However, Hong Kong edged up 0.45 1999. 83$&       ŷ  &2$67       Ÿ  percent, or 106.51 points, to 24,026.46 “Despite the robust US jobs data, $/$)&2       ź  6(&+       ŷ  thanks to a surge in market heavy- markets chose to focus on the weak 08%$55$'       ź  6*&     ŷ  /2*,67,&6       ź  $5=$1       Ÿ  weight Cheung Kong Holdings after it wages growth and the likelihood that it 6&(0       ź  0$5.$=       ź  unveiled a multi-million-dollar restruc- will keep the Fed Reserve ‘patient’ about *&(0       ź  .0(),&       Ÿ  turing plan last week. Tokyo was closed any rate hike,” United Overseas Bank 4&(0       Ÿ  $/$0$1       Ÿ  for a public holiday. said. )&(0      ŷ  $/2/$     ŷ  Weak demand and a supply glut Economists took the report as allow- 5.:&       ŷ  $/0$/       ź  sent crude to new five-and-a-half-year ing the Fed to delay raising interest 63(&       ŷ  *,+       ź  ,QGXVWULDOV     ź  $$<$1       ŷ  lows, with analysts tipping further loss- rates. This dented speculation of an %$<$1,19       ŷ  es this week. The US benchmark, West increase in April and made the dollar .6+     ŷ  2628/       ŷ  Texas Intermediate for February deliv- less attractive to investors. 16+       ŷ  .),&       ŷ  ery, lost $1.06 to $47.30 a barrel, while “This tug of war between deflation 3$3&2     ŷ  .$0&2     ŷ  Brent was down $1.32 to $48.79. and expectations of the first rate hike in &$77/       ź  1,+       ŷ  Singapore’s United Overseas Bank many years by the US Fed is likely to '$1$+       Ÿ  ,6.$1     ŷ  328/7    ŷ  0$'$5       Ÿ  said in a commentary: “Oil prices con- result in intense volatility,” Nader Naeimi )22'       ŷ  $/'((5$       ŷ  tinued to tumble and headed for a sev- at AMP Capital Investors in Sydney, told &RQVXPHU*RRGV     ź  $/6$/$0       ŷ  enth straight weekly loss as key pro- Bloomberg TV. In Asian trade the dollar (.77,7$%       ŷ  ducers show no sign of cutting output bought 118.48 yen compared with 0+&       ŷ  485$,1+/'       ź  in the face of a supply glut.” 118.46 yen on Friday in New York. The $7&   ŷ  $/0$',1$       ź  Crude prices have lost more than euro fetched $1.1846 against $1.1842, <,$&2       ź  1225       ź  +HDOWK&DUH     ź  7$0,19       ŷ  half their value since the middle of last while it was also at 140.22 yen com- (;&+       ŷ  year, with weakness in key markets pared with 140.29 yen. — AFP .&,1       ŷ  7$,%$     ŷ  .+.+2727   ŷ  .6+& .6+&        ŷ  68/7$1       Ÿ  675$7(*,$     ŷ  &$%/(79       ŷ  .&,&       Ÿ  (<$6     ŷ  0$1$)$(       ŷ  ,)$+5     ŷ  *1$+&       ź  Gold dips below from 28/$)8(/       ź  $0:$/       Ÿ  0817$=$+$7       Ÿ  $/,07,$=       Ÿ  1-month high on dollar -$=((5$       Ÿ  0$1$=(/       Ÿ  6225       Ÿ  1,1'       Ÿ  )8785(.,'       ŷ  %,,+&       ź  LONDON: Gold retreated from a one- The dollar index rose 0.2 percent $/1$:$',     ŷ  6(1(5*<       ź  month high yesterday, as the dollar and against six major currencies, but stood $/5$,       ŷ  $*+&       ź  shares rose, but doubts over the likely tim- below a nine-year peak hit last week, =,0$+       Ÿ  .33&       ź  ing of an increase in US interest rates this while European shares rose and oil prices 8),*       ŷ  7$+66,/$7       ŷ  .287)22'       ŷ  -((5$1+       ź  year were seen likely to bolster invest- fell to their lowest level since April 2009. &RQVXPHU6HUYLFHV     Ÿ  (.+2/',1*       ŷ  ment demand in the short term. Weaker oil prices tend to hurt gold as *)+       ź  US nonfarm payrolls data on Friday they reduce the need for gold as a hedge =$,1       Ÿ  ,129(67       ŷ  showed US wages posted their biggest against oil-led inflation. But as equity mar- 225('22       ŷ  )LQDQFLDO6HUYLFHV     ź  decline in at least eight years in kets have recently been hit by persistent +,767(/(&       ź  9,9$       ź  ,QYHVWPHQW,QVWUXPHQWV     ŷ  December, even though payrolls weakness in oil prices, flight to safety 7HOHFRPPXQLFDWLRQV     ź  increased by a brisk 252,000. The data demand bolstered the metal. Short-term $6&       ŷ  added to speculation the Federal Reserve investor sentiment turned slightly more 1%.       ŷ  6$)7(&    ŷ  would be cautious in raising interest rates, positive towards gold, with holdings in *%.       ŷ  )8785(       ŷ  which could help non-interest-bearing the SPDR Gold Trust, the world’s largest &%.       ŷ  +$<$7&200       ź  gold. gold-backed exchange-traded fund, rising $%.       Ÿ  7HFKQRORJ\     ź  Spot gold climbed to its highest since 0.42 percent to 707.82 tonnes on Friday. $/087$+('       ŷ  .,%       Ÿ  %$5((4     ŷ  Dec. 11 at $1,231 an ounce, before edging Hedge funds and money managers %85*       ŷ  $)$4       ŷ  0.1 percent lower to $1,221.60 by 1019 raised their net long positions in gold and .),1       Ÿ  $/6+$0(/       ŷ  GMT. The metal posted its biggest weekly silver futures and options in the week to %28%<$1       Ÿ  6$)5(       ź  gain since June last week at 2.9 percent, Jan. 6, US Commodity Futures Trading $8%       Ÿ  $-:$1       ź  also snapping a three-week decline. “The Commission data showed on Friday. ,7+05       ź  0$6$.(1       ŷ  market is dominated by this ongoing Bullion was also getting some support :$5%$%$1.       Ÿ  '$/4$1       ŷ  %DQNV     Ÿ  $/(,'     ŷ debate about whether the Fed looks at from the physical markets, with buyers in 0,'$1       ŷ  the jobs and the GDP growth or wage top consumer China stocking up for the .,16       ŷ  )/(;     ŷ  inflation and how their focus will impact Lunar New Year holiday in February. *,16     ŷ  7+85$<$       ŷ  the timing of interest rates hikes,” Societe Premiums on the Shanghai Gold $,16       ŷ  .&/,1,&     ŷ  Generale analyst Robin Bhar said. “In the Exchange were between $4 and $5 an :,16       ź  $0$5    ŷ  meantime there are critical events such as ounce, steady from last week. Among .8:$,75(       ŷ  3DUDOOHO0DUNHW     ź  )7,       ŷ  the ECB meeting on monetary easing other precious metals, silver was up 0.5 :(7+$4       ŷ  next week and then the Greek political percent at $16.57 an ounce, while plat- %.,.:7       ŷ  )RUPRUHLQIRUPDWLRQFDOO*OREDO,QYHVWPHQW+RXVHRQZZZJOREDOLQYQHW elections, which could give support to inum and palladium rose 0.1 percent to ,QVXUDQFH    ź  prices at least until the end of the month, $1,229.49 an ounce and $801.20 an due to the need for safe havens.” ounce respectively. — Reuters BUSINESS TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015

DETROIT: Mercedes-Benz introduces the c 350 Plug-In Hybrid at the North American International Auto Show General Motors reveals the new Buick Cascada Convertible to the media.- —AFP (NAIAS) in Detroit. — AFP Bring on the power Detroit auto show roars to life

DETROIT: Luxury and performance vehicles look set to steal was expected to roll out one of its own in the shape of an the headlines at the first major international auto show of the eagerly awaited new GT. year in Detroit, further proof the industry is back to its bois- “The NSX is going to be beautiful. This is what you go into terous best after near-collapse. journalism for,” said Scott Burgess, Detroit editor at Motor The world’s top vehicle manufacturers were Sunday put- Trend. “You could almost have a motor show just for the NSX.” ting their finishing touches to their extravagant display Ford’s refusal to give any information away has served stands and there was no mistaking the prevailing sense of only to whet appetites and increase speculation.”Ford has optimism and anticipation. been the quietest in not telling us what they have,” he said. The US auto industry last year clocked up its best year in Not to be outdone, Cadillac will show off its most power- sales in nearly a decade and, with the low cost of gas and low ful product in the brand’s 112-year history, the new 640 interest rates, has created what analysts are calling a near- horsepower CTS-V. And then there will be Lexus with it GS F perfect storm. performance sedan. With host Detroit now on the long road to recovery after the largest municipal bankruptcy in US history, experts are ‘Good and bad’ expecting the North American International Auto Show to let “It’s a very exciting time to be a luxury brand in the US. its hair down. More than 40 new car and truck models are Luxury cars are making inroads into the mass market,” said forecast to go on display from, when the show opens its Ravi Shanker, executive director and lead auto analyst at doors to the media. All the talk points to the luxury sector as Morgan Stanley. Brian Bolain, corporate marketing manager, being the one to watch this year. Lexus division, told the same Society of Automotive Analysts Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti executive director of design, talks about the Infinity Q60 concept unveiled at the Museum “I’m convinced the US economy and auto market are on conference Sunday: “Luxury is about the brand, always has of Contemporary Art Detroit. — AP the same upward trajectory as the city of Detroit,” Mercedes- been, and will continue to be so.” But while the overall mood Benz chief Dieter Zetsche said Sunday, presenting the new in Detroit is overwhelmingly more positive than in recent back to gas-guzzling performance vehicles, there is a down- And then there is the sensitive issue of recalls-a record 60 GLE Coupe-a hefty combination of power and luxe at an memory, it is not all good news. side to that too, said Shanker. million vehicles in the US last year, with GM in particular in upscale downtown hotel. The European market “continues to bomb,” said Shanker, “It’s good because there are more dollars in consumers’ the spotlight over an ignition problem linked to dozens of Much of the pre-show buzz has surrounded a new incar- while emerging markets in Brazil and Russia “are struggling a pockets,” he said. “But then it’s bad because lots of the US deaths. But amid all the gleam and muscle on display, no one nation of Honda’s legendary Acura NSX supercar and Ford bit.” And while the low price of gasoline is drawing buyers economy depends on the gas and oil industry.” was talking about recalls as the show poised to open. — AFP Volkswagen, Ford take top awards Detroit names VW Golf car of the year

DETROIT: The Ford F-150 has been named North American Truck of the Year at the North American International Auto Show. The Volkswagen Golf was named North American car of the year at the Detroit auto show yesterday. The Golf saw off fierce competition from the Ford Mustang and Hyundai Genesis to take the prestigious award at the North American International Auto Show in a resurgent Detroit. Ford’s F-150 pick-up tri- umphed ahead of Chevrolet’s Colorado and the Lincoln MKC in the truck segment. The winners were SHENYANG: Workers assembling automobiles on the assembly line in a factory work- decided by a jury of 57 journalists and based on quali- shop in Shenyang, northeast China’s Liaoning province. China’s auto sales exceeded ties including design, safety, performance and value. 23 million vehicles last year, an industry group said yesterday. — AFP The Detroit extravaganza, the first major international auto show of the year and the biggest in the United States, launches under renewed optimism that the China 2014 auto sales beat industry has bounced back after years in the dol- drums.

23m, but growth slows The press preview days for the North American SHANGHAI: China’s auto sales exceeded 23 account for the bulk of the market, rose a International Auto Show officially kick off with the million vehicles last year, an industry group stronger 9.9 percent to 19.70 million vehicles awards. The announcements came yesterday morn- said yesterday, but annual growth halved in 2014, CAAM said. “The performance of the ing at Cobo Center in Detroit. from 2013 as a weaker economy took its toll passenger car sector was within expecta- The other finalists for the car award were the Ford Mustang and Hyundai Genesis. The F-150 beat out on the world’s biggest car market. Sales rose tions and the slower overall growth is mainly the Lincoln MKC and Chevrolet Colorado for truck 6.9 percent, or 1.51 million vehicles, to 23.49 due to a decline in sales of commercial vehi- honors. About 60 automotive journalists vote on win- million, the China Association of Automobile cles,” John Zeng, general manager of LMC ners from the list of finalists. A vehicle must be all new Manufacturers (CAAM) said. Automotive Consulting in Shanghai, told or substantially changed for eligibility. That was short of an 8.3 percent growth AFP. DETROIT: Michael Horn, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America (left) and Dr This is the 22nd year for the awards. Organizers Heinz-Jakob Neuser stand with the Volkswagen Golf, named the North American Car Of The target given by CAAM in July, itself a cut from For 2015, passenger car sales were likely accept no advertising, though carmakers try to capi- Year at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. — AFP an earlier forecast of 10 percent, Bloomberg to maintain “relatively high” growth of nine talize on the marketing value of the honors. News reported. In 2013, sales surged 13.9 to 10 percent, but an economic slowdown percent to 21.98 million vehicles, helped by a and stricter emissions regulations will hurt SUV offensive recovery in Japanese brands that were earlier overall vehicle sales, Zeng said. Volkswagen’s latest push to become more than a hurt by a political row between Beijing and He forecast overall auto sales growth of niche player in the United States builds on a truism Tokyo. CAAM described 2014 sales as “stable” 7.2 percent for this year, nearly unchanged the German carmaker has long ignored: if you want in a statement. “Faced with a complex inter- from 2014. to crack the US market, tune in to American cus- tomers. national environment and the arduous task Foreign automakers in China outpaced VW is aiming for leadership in global auto mar- of domestic reform, development and stabil- the overall market, with Germany’s kets, backed by timely expansion in China and Latin ity, the auto sector... achieved sound devel- Volkswagen (VW) as well as General Motors America as well as its dominance in Europe. Yet it con- opment,” it said. China’s economic growth (GM) and Ford of the United States all report- tinues to struggle in North America. It swapped U. eased to 7.3 percent in July-September, the ing record sales for last year. chiefs a year ago, disappointed by the results of a worst quarter since the depths of the global VW delivered 3.67 million cars to cus- push into midsize sedans assembled at a $1 billion crisis in early 2009, as policymakers accept tomers in China in 2014, up 12.4 percent, the factory in Tennessee. US sales of VW-branded cars slower expansion to carry out structural company said Sunday, despite recalling have dropped 16 percent since 2012. reforms. more than 500,000 of its vehicles. To fight back, the company plans to triple its prod- At least seven cities have slapped limits GM sold 3.54 million vehicles in China, up uct range in the fast-growing crossover segment and on vehicle numbers to cut congestion and 12 percent from the previous high in 2013, it refresh models more quickly, company sources said. pollution, including the southern boomtown said last week. The campaign will include a five-seat variant of the forthcoming midsize sport-utility vehicle (SUV), a con- of Shenzhen, which just announced a new “GM expects industry demand to rise cept version of which will be unveiled on Monday at policy to issue only 100,000 licence plates once again this year in China,” President of the Detroit auto show, the sources said. annually. But China remained the world’s GM China Matt Tsien said in a statement. VW is also stepping up cooperation with dealers DETROIT: Joseph R Hinrichs (center), Executive Vice President and President of the Americas biggest auto market last year, a title it has Ford sold 1.11 million vehicles in China in and assembling a team of 200 experts in R&D and for Ford Motor Company, is surrounded by the media after accepting the North American held since 2009, well ahead of the United 2014, up 19 percent from 2013, according to design at its US plant to ensure vehicles better cater Truck Of The Year award. — AFP States. the company. to American tastes. “It took us long to realize that the said. “It’s the game you have to play in the hype- then, from last year’s 367,000, missing the goal by CAAM said that the market share of US market requires more special attention,” a senior heavy US market,” the source said. about a third. Chief Executive Martin Winterkorn, at a Foreign brands shine Chinese companies for passenger cars alone manager at VW’s German headquarters said on con- reception in Detroit on Sunday night, admitted it dition of anonymity. “You have to have an ear on the Industry consultant Autodata has esti- fell 2.1 percentage points in 2014, but gave TARGET MISS could be tough to more than double US sales to ground to capitalize on trends and customer desires.” mated total US sales last year reached 16.5 no overall figure. Chinese firms held a 40.3 VW’s past failings mean it will miss an 800,000 US 800,000 by 2018. “This will not be a walk in the park,” Michael Horn, VW’s new US chief, has reduced the million units, up 5.9 percent from 2013. percent market share for passenger vehicles sales target for 2018, according to researcher IHS he said. “We are facing challenges in this great mar- product lifecycle from seven to five years for sedans China’s passenger car sales, which in 2013, previous figures showed. — AFP Automotive. It sees 547,000 sales of VW-brand cars by ket.” — Agencies and is planning similar changes for SUVs, one source TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 BUSINESS

McLaren Automotive races ahead Over 1,600 vehicles delivered • Asia-Pacific achieves 80% growth cLaren Automotive end- 916PS petrol-electric McLaren P1 accounting for more than 30 per new models. 2015 will see the ed 2014 with record were delivered to customers - cent of overall sales, while sales launch of the McLaren’s most Msales as it has done around two thirds of the car’s in both Europe and the Middle attainable model yet, the new every year since the company total 375 unit production run. East grew year-on-year by 10 per Sports Series which will debut at began production of luxury McLaren’s network of retailers cent and nine per cent respec- the New York International Auto supercars in 2010. A total of grew to cover 30 markets with tively. “With the continuously Show in April. At the top of its 1,648 vehicles were delivered to the additions of Chile, Scotland strong performance of the range, the strictly limited edition customers around the world, an and Thailand. New sales outlets Kuwaiti market, iconic luxury track-only McLaren P1(tm) GTR increase of 21 per cent over 2013 were also opened in existing supercars such as the McLaren is will also enter production after which was the company’s first markets, most notably Calabasas, a strong preference among buy- the final road-going McLaren year of profitability. In addition Cape Town, Changsha, ers,” said Yousef Al-Qatami - P1(tm) has been built. another 14 new retail locations Chongqing, Fuzhou, Hangzhou, General Manager of Ali Alghanim Commenting on the 2014 were added bringing McLaren’s Kunming, Melbourne, Nanjing, & Sons Automotive Company, year end performance, Mike total global sales network to 68 Shenzhen and Tianjin. More the exclusive importer of BMW, Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer of sites. development is planned in 2015. MINI, Rolls-Royce, Land Rover McLaren Automotive explained: Following the international Growth was recorded across and McLaren in Kuwait. “As a ‘These latest results highlight reveal of the 650S in CoupÈ and all four of McLaren’s regional result, our sales are on the rise that McLaren Automotive contin- Spider form, and the first full year locations added in 2014, all of Spider form at the Geneva Motor business units. The Asia-Pacific with a huge demand expected ues to push boundaries and set of McLaren P1 production, and which continue to set bench- Show where the two models region saw the biggest rise with this year. As reflected in its global records year-on-year, and are tes- sees the third consecutive year of marks in the industry the world were launched simultaneously, sales increasing by 80 per cent performance, the Middle East tament to the energy and profes- growth for the brand which is a over. Add to this a range of strong demand for McLaren’s over 2013 with 11 new retail market including Kuwait, remain sionalism of the teams in Woking fantastic achievement. groundbreaking models, shortly core model range saw sales reach locations across the region help- as an important market for the and around the world, including ‘Since the opening of the first to be completed with the launch 1,400 units including some ing to fuel this growth. The North brand.” McLaren Automotive con- our retail partners. The past 12 retailer in June 2011, McLaren of the Sports Series later this examples of the outgoing 12C. American market remained tinues to invest significantly in months have seen the launch of has established a world-class year, and 2015 looks set to be In addition, 248 examples of the McLaren’s largest market research and development for the 650S in both coupÈ and network of retailers, with 14 key another strong year for McLaren.’ Bridgestone appoints Zantrak as its first sole distributor in Iraq

DUBAI: Bridgestone Middle East & Africa East FZE (BSMEA), a subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, announced yesterday that it has appointed Zantrak International as its first sole distributor in the Republic of Iraq. Under this agreement, Zantrak International will exclusively distribute Bridgestone brand tires and tubes in Iraq for trucks and buses, light trucks and pas- senger cars as well as for industrial, motorcycle and agricultural use. The new distributorship will further strength- en BSMEA’s business in Iraq, an identified growth market for the company, by increasing its ability to offer high quality products and services to the country. “Iraq is a key Middle East growth market for Bridgestone we are delighted to partner with Zantrak International to support the expansion of our marketing and sales activities,” said Shoichi Sakuma, President of Bridgestone Middle East & Africa. “We are confident that Zantrak International will deliver strong sales Shoichi Sakuma of BSMEA and Khalil Zantout of Zantrak International. across Iraq as a result of its commitment to excellence and its extensive nationwide pres- for the trust that BSMEA has placed in Zantrak ward to working closely with Bridgestone to ence.” International and said: “We are proud to partner achieve results and to operate as an effective Khalil Zantout, Chairman & General Manager with BSMEA to be the first distributor for distributor by developing a robust customer Bridgestone tyres and tubes in Iraq. We look for- base for the brand in our market.” VIVA expands presence with of Zantrak International s.a.l, thanked Sakuma 5 new branches in Kuwait Skyline Builders celebrates 25th anniversary

KUWAIT: VIVA, Kuwait’s fastest-growing and to its customers. VIVA will continue to move KOCHI: On the occasion of celebrating its 25th most developed telecom operator, announced forward in the same direction, to ensure cus- anniversary, Skyline Builders honored its very yesterday that it has added five new branches tomers are served swiftly and efficiently. VIVA’s first customers, PV Sathisa Baboo and Narayana to its network amounting to a total of 63 motivation to provide excellence in its services Moorthy, home owners of Skyline’s first project, branches across Kuwait, reinforcing its pres- is driven by its passion to serve its customers Skyline Mansion. They were felicitated by ence and growing closer to its customers. and be closer to them wherever they are. Skyline Builders CMD, K V Abdul Azeez. VIVA’s new branches are located in Sulaibikhat VIVA is the fastest-growing telecom opera- Founded in 1989, Skyline Builders has (Sama Al-Sulaibikhat Mall), Khaitan (Block 6 - tor in Kuwait. Launched in December 2008, emerged as Kerala’s No 1 builder by completing Hawazen Complex), Farwaniya Matafi St VIVA makes things Possible for its customers 110 projects, with 24 ongoing projects, across (Farwaniya - Matafi St - Farwaniya Commercial by transforming communication, information 10 cities in Kerala. With a built-up area of over 13 complex), Police Co-op (Al-Zahraa - Block 8 - in and entertainment experiences. The compa- million sq ft, Skyline Builders has a clientele of front of The Public Authority for Civil ny has rapidly established an unrivalled posi- over 6000 customers in over 51 countries. The Information) and Mubarakiya ) Kuwait City - tion in the market through its customer cen- home builder has also received an award for All Mubarakiya - Al-Jadeed Street - Building 69 - tric approach. VIVA’s quest is to be the mobile India Best Residential Apartment and been Shop 2 ). brand of choice in Kuwait by being transpar- accredited a rating of 7 stars and DA2+ by The opening of these new branches come ent, engaging, energetic and fulfilling. VIVA CRISIL. in line with the company’s expansion strategy continues to take a considerable share of the Senior Vice President-Marketing, P A to serve a wider audience across Kuwait by market by offering an innovative range of Verghese; Project General Manager, E A Abdu; KOCHI: On the 25th anniversary celebrations of Skyline Builders, first apartment owner P V offering convenience in location, and in turn best value products, services and content Finance Controller, K R Vasudevan were also Sathisa Baboo being honored by Skyline Builders CMD, KV Abdul Azeez. Project General the provision of excellence in customer serv- propositions; a state of the art, nationwide present on the occasion. Manager E A Abdu and Senior Vice President-Marketing, P A Verghese watch on. ice, and unique and exclusive packages for its network and world-class service. VIVA offers customers. internet speeds of more than 100 Mbps, due VIVA’s network expansion with an addition- to the implementation of the most advanced al five new branches is an achievement the fourth generation (4G LTE) network in Kuwait Global Brands names Gulf Insurance company is proud to announce as it affirms its resulting in superior coverage, performance commitment to being as accessible as possible and reliability. best insurance Brand in Kuwait 2014

KUWAIT: Gulf Insurance, the leading insurance services provider Saudi’s SAFCO Q4 in Kuwait and the Middle East, won the ‘Best Insurance Brand’ award from Global Brands Magazine. The award ceremony took place on 15 December, 2014 at The Address Hotel in Dubai. net profit falls 3% The award recognizes Gulf Insurance’s superior brand in the insurance sector since establishment in 1962, and ongoing brand DUBAI: Saudi Arabian Fertilizer Co (SAFCO) sister company, although higher product development efforts. The Gulf Insurance brand aims to create reported a 3 percent drop in fourth-quarter sales prices partly offset these declines. greater desirability across the insurance industry sector, with a net profit yesterday, missing analyst fore- Analysts polled by Reuters on average fore- primary focus on building long-lasting premium quality relation- casts due to lower ammonia sales and cast SAFCO would make a quarterly profit ships that are rewarding and based on mutual respect. reduced profits from a sister company. The of 892.6 million riyals. Winners were selected from a competitive group of candi- company, a unit of Saudi Basic Industries The company’s 2014 annual profit was dates, all of whom possess unique and superior qualities in the Corp (SABIC) , one of the world’s biggest 3.17 billion riyals, which was nearly flat ver- evolving insurance sector. Gulf Insurance’s recognition comes in petrochemical companies, made a net prof- sus its 2013 profit of 3.16 billion riyals. SAF- line for its exceptional commitment to quality, branding activi- it of 779 million riyals ($207.55 million) in CO, a big producer of ammonia and urea, is ties, customer service and performance, as well as providing a the three months to Dec. 31, according to a dependent on global demand and prices. robust insurance system. Corporate Communication and Investor statement to Riyadh’s bourse. This com- Since mid-2013, global players have voiced Relations Manager, Khaled Al-Sanousi, received the award on pares with a profit of 802 million riyals in concerns over the sustained fall in urea behalf of Gulf Insurance. He said, “We are pleased to gain interna- the corresponding period a year earlier. prices due to China’s ramp up in output. tional recognition for what we believe to be a world-class brand. In an Arabic statement, SAFCO said In the third quarter, SAFCO ended a five- We will continue to work towards exceeding expectations and ammonia sales fell in the fourth quarter quarter streak of decreasing year-on-year excelling in our industry.” and it also received reduced profits from a profits as urea prices recovered. — Reuters Al-Sanousi receiving the award from Global Brand. TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 technology

Foreign investors add Indian online property portals to shopping cart NEW DELHI: Indian businessman Navin whose firm manufactures gas cylinders. He Bhartia’s Internet habits make him a dream bought his last two properties without visit- customer for billionaire foreign media ing them at all. moguls like Rupert Murdoch. The 45-year-old from Kolkata likes to buy homes online, MODI MOVES sometimes without visiting them. In the last Prime Minister Modi has already sought to four years, he has bought five properties for make an impact on India’s still largely unregu- 40 million rupees ($641,900) on lated property market by making the listing Proptiger.com, partly owned by Murdoch’s of real estate investment trusts easier. He has News Corp. Foreign investors like Murdoch paved the way for more foreign investment in have already put more than $200 million into construction, and eased land acquisition portals that help people like Bhartia buy rules. homes. Spurring the interest is Prime Minister “Real estate in India is very messy. There is Narendra Modi’s vow to provide a house to a lot of information arbitrage and asymme- every Indian family by 2022 as the country’s try...no credible pricing data and that is why growing army of Internet users embrace e- there is a strong case for technology-based commerce. solutions,” said SAIF Partners principal “Scale and growth of businesses like Singhal. (online retailer) Flipkart are a proxy that con- Driven by expectations that years of prop- sumers in India are comfortable doing trans- erty market slowdown may come to an end actions on the Internet,” said Mukul Singhal, soon, investment in property portals jumped JACKSONVILLE: According to the website SpaceflightNow.com, the SpaceX ocean-going rocket landing pad returned to port carrying ebrisd principal at India-China fund SAIF Partners, five-fold to $193 million last year, according from the Falcon 9 rocket booster on Sunday in Jacksonville, Florida. — AP which has invested $10 million in Proptiger. to data from Venture Intelligence. The News Corp has a $30 million stake. research firm also expects India’s housing India’s Internet legion, already bigger than market to grow to $158 billion by 2020. Indonesia’s 250 million population and grow- Desperate to boost housing sales that have ing at an annual rate of more than 20 percent, flagged as India’s economy stuttered in SpaceX supply ship arrives has also lured property portal investment recent years, property developers are tying from the likes of Japanese telecoms-to-media up with portals to push transactions online firm SoftBank Corp. Last week Google Inc’s with special promotions. at space station finally Google Capital unit invested an undisclosed Developer Tata Housing, part of the $100 sum in a site called Commonfloor.com. billion Tata group, in November sold homes The need for long-term capital for start- worth more than 500 million rupees through ups like Proptiger and Housing.com also a partnership with Housing. Buyers could see Dragon pulls up at orbiting lab with groceries makes India more attractive for foreign 3D models of the units, make a token pay- investors compared with China, where local ment online and complete the remaining CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida: A shipment of explosion. NASA scrambled to get replacement however, because of its launch accident. SpaceX money dominates, according to one investor, purchase offline. much-needed groceries and belated Christmas equipment aboard Dragon, as did schoolchild- is picking up as much slack as it can. Russia and speaking on condition of anonymity. Such websites, which charge subscription presents finally arrived yesterday morning at the ren who rustled up new science projects. Japan also plan deliveries this year. Indian home buyers by tradition work fees or a percentage of the sales price, still International Space Station. Then Dragon was stalled a month by rocket SpaceX is still poring over data from with local brokers. But in a vast country with a account for a fraction of home sales in India. The SpaceX company’s supply ship, Dragon, snags; it should have reached the space station Saturday’s rocket-landing test, the first of its property market already estimated by KPMG For investors like News Corp, though, the pulled up at the orbiting lab two days after its well before Christmas. Mission Control joked kind. After the first stage of the Falcon rocket to be worth $121 billion in 2013, the Internet Internet logic is inescapable. liftoff. Station commander Butch Wilmore used a about missing not only the December shipment peeled away as planned following liftoff, it flew offers people like businessman Bhartia the “India’s digital demographics are a key fac- robot arm to grab the capsule and its 5,000 date, but Eastern Orthodox Christmas on Jan. 7 back to a giant platform floating off the Florida ability to compare house prices hundreds of tor in looking at this space,” said Raju Narisetti, pounds (2,300 kilograms) of precious cargo, as as well. coast. The guidance fins on the booster ran out kilometres away without leaving home. vice president of strategy at News Corp. the craft soared more than 260 miles (420 kilo- “We’re excited to have it on board,” Wilmore of hydraulic fluid, however, right before touch- “A single broker would have his own limit- “More of the research, decision-making and meters) above the Mediterranean. said. “We’ll be digging in soon.” He’s especially down, and it landed hard and broke into pieces. ed contacts...and he could have personal rea- increasingly the early part of the journey of The space station’s six astronauts were get- eager to get more mustard. The station’s condi- The California company’s billionaire sons for pushing a property. Online you get a buying a home is all happening on the ting a little low on supplies. That’s because the ment cabinet is empty. NASA is paying SpaceX founder, Elon Musk, was encouraged nonethe- very good and holistic view,” said Bhartia, Internet.” — Reuters previous supply ship - owned by another com- and Orbital Sciences Corp. for shipments. less and plans another rocket-landing test next pany - was destroyed in an October launch Orbital’s rockets are grounded until next year, month. — AP Internet at heart of new tactics for Med people smugglers

BRUSSELS: Migrants dreaming of gangs from Turkey are homing in on a ships with would-be asylum seekers Europe have their pick of social media share of the profits. Social media, aboard have tried to reach Europe sites that work like an online travel which helped spread the Arab Spring since August. More than 1,000 agent, advertising fares and offering revolutions, are now a versatile tool in migrants were rescued in two incidents tips on secure payments. Meanwhile, the hands of migrants and smugglers. last week alone. Frontex spokesperson the traffickers who send them floating Many use members-only Facebook Izabella Cooper said one of the vessels across the Mediterranean are buying accounts to share information about used last week appears to have been scrapyard cargo ships over the how to enter the EU illegally and elude purchased online from a scrapyard. Internet. authorities once inside. While the smugglers share informa- That’s the picture of an increasingly “Would-be migrants exchange tion online, there is little evidence they sophisticated business in migrant information that can vary from routes work as one gang. Crews have been smuggling painted by European offi- to be used, asylum-related general variously Russian or Egyptian, and cials and an EU document seen by The information, facilitators’ contacts and Frontex analysts have been unable to Associated Press. Information gathered also warnings regarding certain facili- establish any pattern that might link from migrants rescued at sea “confirms tators that usually just take advantage the smugglers to any larger criminal that social media platforms such as of migrants in order to obtain money enterprise. Facebook and Twitter are widely used from them,” says the EU document. “There is no evidence of these net- to share information on how to enter One Facebook page, with several works being connected. This might just the EU illegally,” says the analysis com- thousand likes, provides contacts via be a new business opportunity that piled by security experts for EU policy Viber and WhatsApp to an Istanbul someone has picked up in Turkey,” makers. office where secure payments for travel Cooper said in a telephone interview The document underscores the from Turkey to Greece can be made. from Frontex headquarters in Warsaw, ingenuity and flexibility of human traf- Another has regularly updated infor- Poland. fickers, as Libya’s mounting chaos mation on travel document require- Almost 170,000 people were res- forces them to turn away from the ments in several countries, including cued in the Mediterranean last year, country as the preferred departure Turkey. The sites have been confirmed but hundreds died and more are miss- Migrants wait after disembarking from the cargo ship Ezadeen, carrying hundreds of migrants, in the southern Italian point. by The AP. ing. EU border authorities are strug- port of Corigliano, Italy. The cargo ship was stopped with about 450 migrants aboard after smugglers sent it speeding With thousands of sub-Saharan gling against opportunistic tactics, toward the coast in rough seas with no one in command. Migrants dreaming of Europe have their pick of social media Africans willing to pay as much as Buying cargo ships such as migrants scuttling boats and sites that work like an online travel agent, advertising fares and offering tips on secure payments. — AP 2,000 euros ($2,400) for a spot in an The Internet is also a good method throwing motors overboard once they to European shores. Last week, smug- with hundreds of people locked inside. movies. You would never think that overcrowded dinghy - and wealthier for buying cargo ships that carry spot a coast guard ship. Under interna- glers used an even more dramatic They then abandoned ship in high ghost ships going on full speed could Syrians now barely flinching at shelling migrants across the Mediterranean, tional law, that turns the encounter method: They sent the Sierra-Leone- seas. A Frontex vessel from Iceland happen in real life,” Cooper said, “let out 9,600 euros ($8,000) for a place according to EU border agency into a search-and-rescue mission oblig- flagged Ezadeen at full throttle in eventually managed to tow the alone with more than 360 people on aboard a rusty cargo ship - criminal Frontex. It says that about 15 cargo ing the coast guard to haul the vessel rough seas toward the Italian coast Ezadeen to Italy. “It’s like from the board.” — AP Self-taught computer program Stray satellite signals help finds super poker strategy NEW YORK: A computer program that Tuomas Sandholm of Carnegie Mellon gauge snowfall in arid West taught itself to play poker has created University in Pittsburgh, who didn’t partici- nearly the best possible strategy for one pate in the new work, called Bowling’s DENVER: Climate scientists are gleaning valuable Kristine Larson, a professor of aerospace engineer- available to cities, farms and wildlife when the version of the game, showing the value of results a landmark. He said it’s the first time information about snowfall and droughts from ing at the University of Colorado. spring melt begins. techniques that may prove useful to help that an imperfect-information game that is errant satellite signals once considered a nuisance. But about four years ago, Larson and other Larson and a team of researchers now monitor decision-making in medicine and other competitively played by people has been The data comes from GPS receivers, mostly ones Colorado scientists discovered those nuisance sig- about 500 GPS receivers, mostly in the western areas. essentially solved. used by earthquake researchers to detect motion nals have some value. In winter, researchers can United States, for snow and moisture data. The The program considered 24 trillion sim- Bowling’s paper, released Thursday by in the Earth’s surface. The receivers use signals from determine the depth of nearby snow by how long National Drought Mitigation Center at the ulated poker hands per second for two the journal Science, introduces some tech- GPS satellites to measure movement. But there’s a it takes the reflected signals to reach the receiver. If University of Nebraska-Lincoln uses the informa- months, probably playing more poker niques that could become useful for apply- problem: In addition to picking up signals directly the ground is bare, they can tell how much mois- tion from Larson’s team to supplement data from a than all humanity has ever experienced, ing game theory in real-world situations. from the satellites, the receivers also pick up satel- ture is in the soil by the strength of the reflected nationwide snow-measuring network of about says Michael Bowling, who led the project. Bowling is investigating the possibility of lite signals that bounce off the ground first, provid- signal. 3,000 human observers and more than 730 auto- The resulting strategy still won’t win helping doctors determine proper insulin ing false readings. That can be valuable information, particularly in mated stations called SNOTEL, for Snowpack every game because of bad luck in the doses for diabetic patients, for example. “First I tried to get rid of them because they the arid West, where snow depth in remote moun- Telemetry. cards. But over the long run - thousands of Game theory has also been used to were making the earthquake data bad,” said tain ranges determines how much water will be Operated by the US Agriculture Department, games - it won’t lose money. “We can go schedule security patrols, and it has impli- the stations have a pressure-sensing pad, precipi- against the best (players) in the world and cations for other areas like developing tation gauge and thermometer and use radio sig- the humans are going to be the ones that strategies for cybersecurity, designing nals to relay information about snow depth and lose money,” said Bowling, of the drugs and fighting disease pandemics. But moisture content. The stations are widely spaced University of Alberta in Edmonton, Bowling doubts the poker strategy will let and can be difficult to reach if they break, said Canada. anybody make a fortune on the game Brian Fuchs, a climatologist with the National The strategy applies specifically to a itself. The kind of poker it applies to has Drought Mitigation Center. Data from other game called heads-up limit Texas Hold ‘em. waned in popularity over the past seven sources, including Larson’s team, helps fill in the While scientists have created poker-play- years or so, he said. Even online, the stakes gaps. ing programs for years, Bowling’s result tend to be small and “you’d be winning a “It gives us a better idea of what’s going on stands out because it comes so close to few dollars, not raking in millions.” between data points and in data-poor areas,” Fuchs “solving” its version of the game, which In the two-player game, each contest- said. Larson said the soil moisture data could also essentially means creating the optimal ant creates a poker hand from two cards help farmers know whether to expect floods. strategy. he is dealt face-down plus five other cards Heavily saturated ground can’t absorb much more Poker is hard to solve because it placed on the table face-up. Players place rain and snow, making flooding more likely. involves imperfect information, where a bets before the face-up cards are laid out, With an annual budget of about $250,000, the player doesn’t know everything that has and then again as each card is revealed. project is relatively inexpensive because it uses happened in the game he is playing - The size of the wagers is fixed. data from GPS receivers installed and paid for by specifically, what cards the opponent has Bowling said the computer’s strategy is other projects, Larson said. And GPS receivers are been dealt. Many real-world challenges far too complicated for anybody to memo- plentiful and well-maintained, because the system like negotiations and auctions also include rize, with about 1,000 times the amount of is so integral to society, she said. The satellites pro- imperfect information, which is one rea- information in the English-language vide precise timing and location information used son why poker has long been a proving Wikipedia. But his university has created a in weapons, navigation, banking and other appli- ground for the mathematical approach to website where people can ask it for advice DETROIT: A section of the Toyota exhibit is readied for the 2015 North American International decision-making called game theory. and even play against it. — AP Auto Show yesterday in Detroit. — AFP cations. — AP TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 HEALTH & SCIENCE British Ebola patient recovering, no longer critical, says hospital

LONDON: A British nurse diagnosed with she receives specialist care for the Ebola Ebola last month is recovering and is no virus.” Cafferkey is being treated with longer in a critical condition, the London blood plasma from an Ebola survivor and hospital treating her said in a statement an unnamed experimental anti-viral drug, yesterday. Pauline Cafferkey, a 39-year- the hospital has said. old nurse who normally works at a The Royal Free, Britain’s main centre for Scottish health centre, became the first Ebola cases, successfully treated British aid person to be diagnosed with the disease worker William Pooley with the experimen- in Britain after contracting it in Sierra tal drug ZMapp-a drug made by the small Leone where she was volunteering at an biotech company Mapp Biopharma-ceuti- Ebola clinic. cal in San Diego-after he was flown back to “Pauline Cafferkey is showing signs of Britain last August, suffering from the dis- improvement and is no longer critically ease. Supplies of ZMapp have since run ill,” the statement from the Royal Free out and none has been available to treat Hospital said. “She remains in isolation as Cafferkey.—Reuters E-learning matches traditional training for doctors, nurses

LONDON: Millions more students world- greater access to education, especially in wide could train as doctors and nurses poorer countries where the need for using electronic learning, which is just as health professionals is greatest. He said effective as traditional medical training, a the barriers were mostly in access to review commissioned by the World computers and Internet connections. Health Organization has found. Car’s team carried out a systematic Researchers at Imperial College London review of 108 existing studies to assess who conducted the review said yester- the effectiveness of e-learning for under- day that wider use of e-learning might graduate health professional education. LAS VEGAS: This Jan 4, 2015 file photo shows the Zepp sensor and application on display at CES Unveiled, a media preview event for CES help make up for a global shortfall of 7.2 They also conducted separate analyses International.—AP photos million health workers identified in a looking at online learning, requiring an recent WHO report. internet connection, and offline learning, Josip Car, who led the study, said that delivered using CD-ROMs or USB sticks, Wearable sensors gather lots the use of electronic media and devices for example. They found that students in education - already used by many uni- gain knowledge and skills through versities and workplaces to allow “dis- online and offline eLearning as well as or of data-now to make it useful tance learning” to support campus- or better than they do through traditional office-based teaching - could enable teaching.—Reuters ‘what’s technologically meaningful’

LAS VEGAS: It’s not just about how many steps you’ve taken or how many calories you’ve burned in a day. Wearable fitness trackers and health monitors are becoming more common- place and diverse, but just what do you do with all of that data? “We have a lot of people buy wearables and then stop using them,” said Paul Landau, presi- dent of Fitbug, a British maker of fitness trackers. Landau attended the International CES gadget show in Las Vegas last week, promoting a series of 12-week fitness coaching programs that offer detailed and custom recommendations for get- ting in shape. “If you want to help people,” said Landau, “they’ve got to have more than just self- tracking.” Health monitors aren’t just for fitness buffs. Startups and big tech companies at the gadget show promoted all kinds of uses for the data generated by wearable sensors - from mindful- ness exercises to figuring out the best time to get pregnant. Other companies aim to offer val- ue by aggregating data from different sources, so it can be viewed and interpreted together. That could be useful, but it also raises a host of privacy concerns. LAS VEGAS: In this Jan7, 2015 file photo, Garmin’s Vivofit 2 fitness tracker is on display at the Turning data into an experience Garmin booth at the International CES. “A lot of wearables today are just throwing One in 10 Americans owns a fitness activity South African company, LifeQ, were making the numbers at people. We’re looking to synthesize tracker - typically a wristband that measures rounds at CES to promote their notion of using that data and turn it into an experience,” says things like heart rate, breathing and movement, sophisticated algorithms to analyze data from a Jason Fass of Zepp Labs, a Silicon Valley startup according to the Consumer Electronics variety of wearable devices. LifeQ founder Riaan TRAVERSE CITY: Microfibers were found inside the body of a Great Lakes fish, shown that makes a tiny, wearable motion sensor for Association, which organizes the annual show. Conradie says his company can use “bio-mathe- in this July 28, 2014 photo.—AP tennis, baseball and golf enthusiasts. The Gartner research firm estimates more than matical modeling” to make meaningful health Zepp has been selling sensors for a year, Fass 70 million such devices were sold worldwide last predictions, such as whether a person is at risk said in an interview at CES, but he’s hoping year. And that doesn’t count more sophisticated for a heart attack. Scientists: Great Lakes teeming weekend athletes will see more value in Zepp’s wearables that can measure body temperature, new smartphone app. It shows users an animat- glucose levels or other health indicators. But who gets to see all that data? with tiny plastic fibers ed analysis of their swing, and lets them com- But as the novelty of these devices wears off, The prospect of collecting and analyzing so pare their moves with videos of pro athletes. said CES chief economist Shawn DuBravac, con- much personal data - especially sensitive med- The trend goes beyond sports. A Canadian sumers will become less interested in “what ical records - raises a host of privacy concerns. About three-quarters of the bits TRAVERSE CITY: Scientists who have startup called InteraXon displayed a headset technologically can be done” and more focused Consumer advocates worry the information reported that the Great Lakes are awash they’ve found are fragments of larger that can measure brain activity, by tracking elec- on “what’s technologically meaningful.” could be used by insurance companies to deny in tiny bits of plastic are raising new items such as bottles. Smaller portions trical impulses. It connects to an app that pro- coverage or raise rates. Speaking at CES last alarms about a little-noticed form of the consist of microbeads, Styrofoam and vides mental exercises to relax or focus the Gathering the data in one place week, Federal Trade Commission chief Edith debris turning up in sampling nets: syn- other materials. But when Mason’s team mind, but founder Ariel Garten predicts the Apple and Google have developed mobile Ramirez warned tech companies against selling thetic fibers from garments, cleaning and a group from the Illinois-Indiana Sea technology might be integrated with other serv- device software that can gather health and fit- health information to data brokers, and urged cloths and other consumer products. Grant program took samples from south- ices in the future - to automatically adjust a ness data from wearables and other sources, dis- them to guard against hackers. They are known as “microfibers” - exceed- ern Lake Michigan in 2013, about 12 per- wearer’s iTunes playlist, for example. playing it in ways that are easy for consumers Prima-Temp’s Costantini said the information ingly fine filaments made of petroleum- cent of the debris consisted of Other exhibitors showed wearable motion and their doctors to interpret. Samsung and her company gathers on body temperatures and based materials such as polyester and microfibers. It’s unclear why the fibers sensors designed for the elderly person who Blackberry are also working on software to col- fertility might someday be analyzed for broader nylon that are woven together into fab- were three times as prevalent in that area lives alone, keeping a record of daily activity and lect medical data. medical insights. But she said identities will rics. as elsewhere in the lakes, although cur- sending an alert to family members if, for exam- Silicon Valley startup Bellabeat makes several always be shielded and all data is stored in com- “When we launder our clothes, some rents and wave actions may be one ple, the wearer falls, or isn’t following his or her devices aimed at women, including a wearable pliance with federal confidentiality rules for of the little microfibers will break off and explanation, said Laura Kammin, pollu- usual pattern of moving around the house. activity tracker that looks like jewelry, a weight health records. go down the drain to the wastewater tion prevention specialist with Sea Grant. Colorado-based Prima-Temp introduced a scale and a fetal heartbeat monitor for pregnan- Companies that collect health information treatment facility and end up in our bod- Ominously, the fibers seem to be getting cervical ring containing an electronic sensor cy. Instead of showing readings on each device, can’t operate in the same way as, say, online ies of water,” Sherri “Sam” Mason, a stuck inside fish in ways that other that’s designed to track a woman’s internal body they’re designed to send information to a single retailers who tell advertisers what kind of shoes chemist with the State University of New microplastics aren’t. Microbeads and temperature. It can send a smartphone alert to smartphone app, “where you can see how your you like to buy, said Samsung Electronics presi- York at Fredonia, said Friday. The fibers fragments that fish eat typically pass the woman - and her partner - when it’s her opti- data is connected,” said co-founder Urska Srsen. dent Young Sohn. “We can’t just share that infor- mum time to conceive a child. “The future is going to be one where all your mation like the marketing data you might get are so minuscule that people typically through their bodies and are excreted. Tiny sensors that can track activity and health information is going to be in one place,” said out of some e-commerce application,” said But fibers are becoming enmeshed in don’t realize their favorite pullover fleece data have been a fixture at CES in recent years. WebMD CEO David Schlanger. Scientists from a Sohn.—AP can shed thousands of them with every gastrointestinal tracts of some fish washing, as the journal Environmental Mason and her students have examined. Science & Technology reported in 2011. They also found fibers inside a double- Over the past couple of years, Mason crested cormorant, a fish-eating bird. Got help paying for health care? and colleagues have documented the existence of microplastic litter - some too Obvious solution small to see with the naked eye - in the “The longer the plastic remains inside Watch your mailbox Great Lakes. Among the particles are an organism, the greater the likelihood WASHINGTON: If you’re among the millions of con- people received the right amount of assistance that expect to mail about 4.5 million forms and they’re abrasive beads used in personal care that it will impact the organism in some sumers who got financial help for health insurance they were legally entitled to. The amount of the tax tackling the massive job state by state. Tax prepara- products such as facial and body washes way,” Mason said, noting that many plas- last year under President Barack Obama’s law, better credit is based on a formula that takes into account tion companies are seeing a whole new line of busi- and toothpastes. Other researchers have tics are made with toxic chemicals or keep an eye on your mailbox. The administration said income, household size, and health insurance costs in ness in the health care law. But insurers are worried made similar finds in the oceans. A num- absorb them from polluted water. She is Monday it has started sending out tax reporting your community. Those who got too much of a sub- that perplexed consumers will pepper them with tax ber of companies are replacing preparing a paper on how microplastics forms that you’ll need to fill out your 2014 return. Like sidy will get their tax refunds reduced by the IRS. For questions they’re not qualified to answer. The health microbeads with natural substances such are affecting Great Lakes food chains, W-2s for health care, they’re for people who got example, you can get dinged if your income went up care law will mean lots more work for the IRS, and as ground-up fruit pits. Illinois imposed a including fish that people eat. health insurance tax credits provided under the law. during the year, and you didn’t realize you had to Commissioner John Koskinen is warning Congress statewide ban on microbeads last year. There’s also a chance that fibers are in Because this is the first time Americans will experi- report that to HealthCare.gov or your state insurance that budget cuts could hamper taxpayer services this Similar measures were proposed in drinking water piped from the lakes, she ence the complex connections between the health exchange. If you received less of a subsidy than you filing season. The Obama administration has been try- California and New York. said. Scientists reported last fall that two care law and taxes, there’s concern that some people were entitled to, the IRS will owe you instead. ing to offer reassurance. dozen varieties of German beer con- may not realize the new forms are important, and “In the coming weeks, HHS will work with other Wave actions tained microplastics. Because microfibers that they do need to open that envelope. Some con- Insurance exchanges agencies, tax preparers and community organizations But microfibers have gotten compara- are used so widely, there’s no obvious sumers may not know what to do with the paper- The Health and Human Services department said to arm ... consumers with the information they need to tively little attention. They’ve accounted solution, Mason said. Persuading people work. Called 1095-A, the forms list who in each it has started sending out forms to consumers in know as they prepare to file their taxes,” Secretary for about 4 percent of the plastic litter to stop wearing synthetic clothes likely household got subsidized coverage through the states where the federal government is running the Sylvia M. Burwell said in a statement. The health care that Mason and her students have col- would be a tougher sell than the idea of health insurance exchanges, and how much the gov- insurance markets. The first batches should start arriv- law provides subsidized private health insurance for lected from the Great Lakes. The group switching facial scrubs. But pollution pre- ernment paid each month to help with premiums. ing by midweek. The forms can also be downloaded people who don’t have access to coverage on the job. You don’t actually file the form with your tax return, from your HealthCare.gov account. States running Funneling the subsidies through the tax system drags finely meshed netting along the vention remains the best way to protect but you can’t complete your return without the infor- their own insurance exchanges - including California allowed the White House to claim that the law was “the lake surfaces, harvesting tens of thou- the lakes, Kammin said. “It’s very hard to mation it contains. Taxpayers, or their tax preparers, and New York - will send out the forms separately. But largest tax cut for health care in American history.” But sands of particles per square mile, and remove these microplastics once they’re will use the financial details to fill out yet another they still must meet a Feb. 2 postmark deadline. the downside is it adds more complexity to a tax sys- study them with microscopes. out there,” she said.—AP form - 8962. That one is used to determine whether Insurers say the feds have told them that they tem that’s already impenetrable for many people.—AP TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 HEALTH & SCIENCE

Britain’s health service to halt access to some costly cancer drugs

LONDON: Several expensive cancer medicines will on the list, but other firms have failed to reach a Cameron in 2011. in 2014/15. If action had not been taken, the pro- no longer be available on Britain’s state-funded workable deal. Manufacturers argue that the de-listings fly in jected cost would have grown to around 420 million National Health Service (NHS) following an overhaul Japan’s Eisai said it was “outraged” by a decision the face of evidence that their medicines offer clear in the coming year. “There were drugs that did not of an over-budget drug funding scheme, NHS to de-list its breast cancer drug Halaven. Other benefits, but critics of the CDF claim it was set up for offer sufficient clinical benefit so we simply cannot England said yesterday. The revamp was triggered notable drugs being dropped include Sanofi’s political reasons, resulting in money being wasted go on funding those,” said Peter Clark, chair of the by the escalating cost of supplying modern cancer prostate and bowel cancer drugs Jevtana and on excessively pricey drugs. While most drugs have CDF and a practising oncologist. therapies, which often cost tens of thousands of Zaltrap. The changes follow a review of the Cancer been retained, the list of approved clinical uses for “There were others that offered some benefit but pounds for a course of treatment. Drug companies Drugs Fund (CDF), which pays for treatments medicines has been cut to 59 from 84 previously. were costly and I am pleased that a number of phar- have been in urgent talks with the health service deemed too costly under the normal process for Despite the revamp, the CDF budget will still maceutical firms worked with us to make prices about the cuts. In some cases that has resulted in evaluating medicines. The fund has overspent increase to an expected 340 million pounds ($515 more affordable, saving millions of pounds that can price reductions, allowing certain medicines to stay hugely since it was set up by Prime Minister David million) in the year from April 2015 from 280 million now be reinvested in other treatments.” — Reuters

Girl in China got HIV through blood transfusion

BEIJING: A five-year-old girl in China con- remains an issue. Wu Zunyou, the head of tracted HIV through a blood transfusion, the National Center for AIDS/STD Control state media reported, the latest case to and Prevention, told yesterday’s China shine a light on an issue that has long Daily newspaper that about 10 people in bedeviled the country. According to the China annually are infected with HIV official news agency Xinhua, the girl, nick- through blood transfusions. named Maomao, was infected during an operation for congenital heart disease in China Daily 2010 in the eastern province of Fujian. She By contrast, the last two such cases in tested positive for HIV last year after she the US took place in 2008 and 2002, had come down with a fever for 17 days, according to the UK-based charity AVERT. Xinhua said. Screening of donors’ blood led to the A Fujian government official told the detection of 2,237 cases of HIV/AIDS in the news agency that one of eight donors first 10 months of 2014, Wu told the China whose blood was used during the opera- Daily. In the Fujian case, an investigation tion was in a “window period” during which found that “neither the hospital nor the the virus was undetectable. The donor was blood centre had broken any law” as the later found to have HIV. Nearly half a mil- donor was in the window period, Xinhua lion people are living with HIV/AIDS in reported on Sunday, adding that negotia- China, according to figures released last tions on compensation were underway month by the National Health and Family with the family. The same donor’s blood Planning Commission. In the 1990s, rural was also used for two other operations, and parts of China-particularly the central officials are trying to track down the province of Henan-were hit by the coun- patients, Xinhua said. try’s most debilitating AIDS epidemic. It In an op-ed yesterday, commentator Tie stemmed from a tainted government- Yonggong wrote in the Beijing Times that backed blood donation program and “a child who becomes infected with AIDS infected tens of thousands of people, due to a blood transfusion is not just a fam- including entire villages. ily’s tragedy; it’s a systematic risk to all of Currently, sexual transmission accounts society”. “In addition to this child, there are for more than 90 percent of infections, others who also received blood from the according to the Chinese Center for Disease same source,” Tie wrote. “So, remedying the Control and Prevention (CCDCP). But trans- loopholes in the system is in the interests Metabolism pointer mission through blood transfusions of the safety of many people.” — AFP China quietly toughens travel for quitting smoking

restrictions on West Africans PARIS: How quickly a smoker breaks smokers who wanted to quit, divided down nicotine is a guide to which roughly equally into fast and slow BEIJING: China has been quietly toughen- year. Victor Bockarie Foh, Sierra Leone’s therapy is best for kicking the habit, metabolizes. The smokers were ran- ing travel restrictions on students and busi- ambassador to China, said he himself faced AmerisourceBergen according to research published yes- domly assigned to an 11-week course nessmen travelling from Ebola-hit West stepped-up screening when he returned to Africa even as it increases support to fight Beijing after a recent trip to his home coun- terday. Most smokers who try to give that comprised either a nicotine buys animal-health the deadly disease on the ground in the try. up tobacco fail within the first week, patch plus a dummy pill, varenicline region, diplomats say. Beijing-based ambas- “I came back and at the airport I was very so matching them to the best treat- plus a dummy patch or a dummy firm for $2.5 bn sadors from Liberia and Sierra Leone, whose rigorously examined,” he said, adding he did ment is essential, its authors said. patch and a dummy pill. countries along with Guinea are the hardest not fault China for stepping up restrictions Previous research has found a link The study did not cover electronic between tobacco craving and levels cigarettes, which some advocates say NEW YORK: US pharmaceutical distributor AmerisourceBergen hit by the Ebola outbreak, say some of their on travelers from his country. “If you fly with announced yesterdaythat it plans to acquire animal-health nationals are staying away from China due a disease like this, it is like flying with a of an enzyme called CYP2A6 which are a useful tool for giving up smok- breaks down nicotine. ing. The results should lead to a sim- company MWI Veterinary Supply for $2.5 billion. to the new procedures. bomb,” he said. “They (China) have not AmerisourceBergen said the deal would enable it to expand its No cases of Ebola have so far been closed their doors. They are only being The faster the nicotine is metabo- ple blood test for nicotine metabo- lized, the likelier it is that the smoker lism so that doctors can better advise services into animal health. MWI sells pet food, animal medica- reported in China. “You have many careful.” McKinley said Liberian students, tions, vaccinations and other goods. Liberians, Guineans and Sierra Leonians including those on a government scholar- will want to light up again soon, and patients, the authors hope. “As many “Animal health is a growing market in the US and interna- whocome frequently to conduct business,” ships, had difficulties obtaining visas in time the harder it will be to quit. Scientists as 65 percent of smokers who try to Dudley Thomas McKinley, Liberia’s ambas- to begin the fall semester. Most of their cas- in the United States and Canada used quit relapse within the first week,” tionally, and is a logical extension of our pharmaceutical distri- sador to China, said in an interview. “Of es were worked out but some had post- a biomarker-the speed at which said Caryn Lerman, a professor of psy- bution and services businesses,” said AmericsourceBergen chief course this has impacted them in a negative poned their studies by a term, he said. CYP2A6 does its job-to see whether chiatry at the University of execute Steven Collis. “Utilizing AmerisourceBergen’s knowl- way and has slowed it down. “It has impact- The Embassy of Guinea did not respond nicotine patches or a non-nicotine Pennsylvania, who co-led the study. edge of manufacturer and provider services, our global reach ed the numbers of people travelling to to repeated requests for comment. China is replacement drug called hantix or “Matching a treatment based on and partnership philosophy, combined with MWI’s expertise in China from those regions, whether for busi- not alone in tightening travel restrictions. Champix) were more effective. the rate at which smokers metabolize veterinary and agricultural markets, we will collaboratively ness or for study,” he added, saying he The United States has toughened health Smokers who broke down nicotine nicotine could be a viable clinical launch the next generation of superior animal health products planned to raise the concern with China’s checks for passengers from Liberia, Guinea quickly-most smokers, in fact-were strategy to help individual smokers and services together.” Foreign Ministry. and Sierra Leone. Other countries such as twice as likely to quit if they used choose the cessation method that MWI had sales of $3 billion last year, while China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied Australia have stopped issuing visas alto- varenicline than if they used patches, will work best for them.” Around six AmerisourceBergen had sales just under $120 billion and there was any change in visa policy for West gether for citizens from the impacted coun- they found. million deaths annually can be attrib- about 14,000 employees. AmerisourceBergen said it would African applicants. Most West Africans enter tries. China, Africa’s biggest trade partner, They also had a better chance of uted to tobacco, and smoking inflicts purchase MWI for $190 per share, about a 17.4 percent premi- around $200 billion (169 billion China through the southern province of promised last year to send over 1,000 per- staying of tobacco six months later. um to its price before the deal. In late-morning trade, shares of Slower metabolizes found nicotine euros) in health costs annually, the Guangdong, which neighbours Hong Kong. sonnel to help fight the outbreak that has AmerisourceBergen dipped 0.1 percent to $92.94, while MWI patches to be as effective as vareni- paper said. The study appears in the The Guangzhou Daily said 438,000 Africans, killed over 8,000 people. Beijing has also jumped 8.1 percent to $189.93. — mostly traders, passed through the provin- contributed over $100 million in aid to the cline, but without that drug’s side journal The Lancet Respiratory cial capital from January to October last anti-Ebola effort. — Reuters effects. The studies covered 1,246 Medicine. — AFP WHAT’S ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015

Albanian artists display works at Modern Art Museum

lbanian formative artists Sunday evening displayed their paintings and Aworks at the Modern Art Museum, all depicting different aspects of life in their country. Ali Al-Yoha, Secretary General of the National Council for Literature, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), said he was happy to intro- duce the fine works of the Albanian artists. He said those artists were known for their contri- butions to art, ranging from dress design, graphics, movies and cartoons in addition to formative art. Hosting these exhibitions will contribute to better interaction among countries and peo- ple, said Al-Yoha. The exhibition is part of activities of the 21st Al-Qurain Cultural Festival. Albanian Ambassador to Kuwait Kotim Morina said the Albanian artists belong to different schools, traditional and modern, and their technique in drawing dealt with nature, personal photos and dress design. He hoped the Kuwaiti visitors would enjoy the displays. — KUNA

The recipe for the Dubai Food Festival 2015

he Dubai Food Festival 2015’s full and the new-for-2015 and Middle East’s first, chefs will appear at Fatafeat Kitchen (20 - 21 flavoursome line-up of new and Fatafeat Kitchen, the Festival will also wel- February), which will welcome nine in total Treturning gastronomic consumer and come a fleet of the city’s favourite food including Egyptian cuisine expert Chef business events, celebrity chefs, activities trucks in the Food Truck Convoy. Another Salma Soliman to take part in live cooking and promotions, has been announced by highlight comes in the form of celebrity demonstrations. Another of the Festival’s Dubai Festivals and Retails Establishment chef’s taking over the kitchens of the Dubai inaugural events, Dine On The (DFRE), an agency of Dubai Tourism and Creek’s iconic floating restaurants as part of Creek(Various dates, to be announced Commerce Marketing (DTCM).Marking the Dine On The Creek. The 23-day city-wide soon), will see celebrity chefs including Festival’s second edition, this year’s Dubai extravaganza will also bring back 2014 Sanjeev Kapoor, Manal Al Alemand Yousef Food Festival(DFF) will welcome a bursting event favourites, Beach Canteen, Dubai Khumayes serve up their internationally calendar of delicious and diverse events Food Carnival, Taste of Peru, GulFood and award-winning dishes in traditional Emirati across four key themes, including Emirati the Global Restaurant Investment Forum surroundings. Cuisine, Homegrown restaurants, Multi-cul- (GRIF) amongst many more, to satisfy the tural Dining and Street Food and culinary cravings of Dubai’s visiting and resi- Emirati Cuisine International Chefs and Restaurants. dent foodies. The new-for-2015 Made In Dubai With exclusive and new events set to event(27 - 28 February at Zabeel Park) will include the region’s-first foodie film nights, Celebrity Chefs pay particular homage to Emirati hospitality Dubai Food and Film, and nine back-to-back Promoting the depth and diversity of the and culture, as it showcases 96 delicious yet celebrity chef cooking sensations as part of city’s gastronomic offering as it positions often unknown Emirati dishes through tast- Dubai as a leading international hub for ings and master-classes with local chefs. world-class food, DFF 2015headliners include the Michelin-starred Jason Homegrown Atherton, award-winning Greg Malouf, TV The bigger and better 2015 Beach favourite Sanjeev Kapoor, Queen of the Canteen, which this year takes residence at Arabic Kitchen, Manal Al Alem, critically- Kite Beach for the entirety of the Festival (6 - acclaimed chef and best-selling author, 28 February), plays host to nine of Dubai’s Silvena Rowe, and the renowned Saudi very best homegrown restaurants and con- Arabian Super Chef Yousef Khumayes, many cepts. Offering visitors a unique beach din- of whom have restaurants in the Emirate. ing experience, the Beach Canteen will also Her Excellency Laila Mohammed Suhail serve up pop-up restaurants from celebrity Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Festivals and chefs, Jason Atherton (26 - 28 February), Retail Establishment, said:”This year’s edi- Sanjeev Kapoor (21 February) and Yousef tion of the Dubai Food Festival will incorpo- Khamayes (6 - 7 February) and a variety of rate a varied and extensive events calendar, other entertainment. Similarly, the Urban showcasing our Emirate at its culinary best. Bazaar local foodie street market (6 Along with welcoming a number of interna- February, atThe Archive, Safa Park and 27 tionally-renowned chefs, including those February, at Creek side, Bur Dubai) will host who have established restaurants in Dubai, stalls showcasing homegrown concepts. the Festival will celebrate another key ele- ment of Dubai’s gastronomic offering, its Multi-cultural Dining and Street Food most-loved home-grown concepts. Celebrating multicultural dining and “The Festival programme has been street food, DFF will welcome homegrown designed to both highlight the range of food trucks including local favourites Moti flavours that inspire Dubai’s menus, drawn Roti, Raw Coffee and Burger Fuel, to take from the cuisines of the 200 nationalities part in the Food Truck Convoy (Various that live in the city, as well as the traditions dates). The trucks will arrive at key locations of Emirati cuisine and hospitality, an throughout the Festival, serving up the very Dubai Food Festival 2015 promises enter- Further Dubai Food Festival 2015 events increasingly important element of our best street food cuisine. DFF will also wel- tainment for the entire family as it chal- and details will be announced in the com- tourism offer. We look forward to welcom- come Street Nights(20 - 21 February), which lenges festival goers to truly discover ing weeks as the launch of the Festival ing residents and visitors from the region will pair street art with street food in the Dubai’s unique and growing culinary offer. approaches. For the most up to date infor- and beyond throughout February to experi- city’s up-and-coming arts precinct, Al Quoz. Along with expanding 2014 event mation regarding this year’s DFF, visit ence the depth and diversity of our city’s Similarly, a showcase of award-winning favourites, such as the highly popular Beach www.dubaifoodfestival.com. culinary credentials,” continued H E Laila street-food photographer Penny De La Canteen, Dubai Food Festival 2015 will see Suhail. Santos’ most stunning images of the multi- the addition of some truly memorable cultural dining and street food on offer in events and activities that, while inspired by Four Key Themes Dubai will be on show at Dubai Airport dur- global foodie trends, will have a distinctly International Chefs and Restaurants ing February. Dubai flavour”, said Dubai Food Festival Regional and international celebrity “With a theme of ‘Find your Flavour’, 2015 Director, Debra Greenwood. WHAT’S ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015

The general supervision department of guidance held a health exhibition in Ahmadi Governorate, during the 18th annual scouts camp. The event was supervised by Dhiya’ Bader Bughaith, and was held under the slogan: “Our health means security”. Sebamed was part of the event, and gave advises on skin care to the visitors. — Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Landmark Group to launch ‘Art Olympiad’

eiterating its commitment to the socie- tribute to the welfare of the society in which maintaining an excellent rapport and creat- year’s Olympiad are: Kuwait American School, ty, Landmark Group Kuwait is all set to we operate. This is one of our core values. The ing awareness about relevant issues among Salmiya, The English School, Salmiya, Rhost the Art Olympiad 2015 for the Art Olympiad has become an annual event, the youth with constant activities and events, Fahaheel Al Watanieh Indian Private School eighth year in a row on January 20 from 8.00 and we hope to continue to raise the spirits while setting a platform for approx 150 stu- Ahmadi, Indian Educational School Jleeb, am - 2.00 pm at Centrepoint, The Avenues. of the students and encourage them to dents from schools of repute across Kuwait. Indian Learners Own Academy, Al Ghanim Children aged 14 years and below are eligible express their views strongly and in an innova- Children will be provided with a craft pack Bilinguil School, Canadian Bilingual School, to enter the competition. This initiative has tive manner.” that includes a drawing sheet and a variety of Indian English Academy School- Don Bosco, been a part of Landmark Group’s ongoing “Year after year I am always amazed at the art materials such as paints, pencils and Indian Central School, Kuwait National corporate social responsibility where young outstanding art work created the talented crayons. English School artists have an opportunity to showcase their young students. The judges look forward to Art Olympiad aims to bring fun and enter- Students will be judged on the basis of talents. their lovely creations and are impressed each tainment to young artists by encouraging creativity, workmanship, overall impression Saibal Basu, Chief Operating Officer of year. The positive and enthusiastic feedback their creativity and also by rewarding them and relevance to the theme. Judging will be Landmark Group, Kuwait said, “Landmark we have received from schools and students for their participation in the art competition. held in two age categories: 1) 9-11 years, 2) Group regards service to the community as a as well as the growing number of partici- It provides a grooming platform for these 12-14 years. with exciting grand prizes and many other crucial component that plays a pivotal role in pants are a clear indication of the successful students by helping them improvise their First, second and third place prizes will be valuable gifts. They will also receive certifi- the country’s progress. As a premier organi- engagement the Landmark Group has with flair and encourage their innovative ability awarded for each category. A total of eight cates and trophies in recognition of their par- zation and a frontrunner in various strategic the community.” through art. winners will be selected at the end of the ticipation, and their schools will be given a initiatives, it is our responsibility to con- As always, Landmark Group is keen on Some of the participating schools for this competition. Each winner will be awarded plaque of appreciation. TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 TV PROGRAMS

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News 00:25 Being Eileen 09:20 Dallas Car Sharks 13:05 Extreme Close-Up 23:15 Emmerdale 00:55 Eastenders 09:45 How It’s Made 13:35 Beyond Candid With 23:45 Murdoch Mysteries 01:25 Doctors 10:10 How It’s Made Giuliana NAT GEO CHANNEL HD 01:55 Being Erica 10:35 Gold Rush 14:30 Style Star 00:00 Predator CSI 02:40 Whitechapel 11:25 Gold Rush 15:00 Keeping Up With The 01:00 My Dog Ate What? 03:30 Scott & Bailey 00:00 Unforgettable 12:15 Alaska: The Last Frontier Kardashians 02:00 Mega Breakdown 01:00 Good Morning America 04:15 The Weakest Link 13:05 Auction Hunters 16:00 Keeping Up With The 03:00 Car SOS 05:00 Woolly & Tig 03:00 Dracula 13:30 The Liquidator Kardashians 04:00 Hunter Hunted 05:00 Good Morning America 05:05 The Green Balloon Club 13:55 Dallas Car Sharks 17:00 Giuliana & Bill 05:00 Fight Science 05:30 Gigglebiz 07:00 Emmerdale 14:20 Siberian Cut 18:00 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills 06:00 Crime Lab 07:30 Coronation Street 05:45 Boogie Beebies 15:10 Rods N’ Wheels 18:30 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills 07:00 Puma: Lion of The Andes 06:00 Nina And The Neurons: In 09:00 24 16:00 Fast N’ Loud 19:00 E!ES 08:00 Predator CSI 10:00 Emmerdale The Lab 16:50 How It’s Made 20:00 Live From The Red Carpet 09:00 My Dog Ate What? 06:15 Woolly & Tig 10:30 Coronation Street 17:15 How It’s Made 22:00 E! News 10:00 Mega Breakdown 13:00 Unforgettable 06:20 The Green Balloon Club 17:40 Dual Survival 23:00 Kourtney And Khloe Take 11:00 Megacities 06:45 Gigglebiz 14:00 24 18:30 Dive Wars Australia The Hamptons 12:00 How Hard Can It Be? 15:00 Live Good Morning America 07:00 Boogie Beebies 19:20 Manhunt 13:00 Caught In The Act 07:15 The Weakest Link 18:00 Unforgettable 20:10 The Liquidator 14:00 Wild Untamed Brazil 19:00 24 08:00 The Vicar Of Dibley 20:35 Dallas Car Sharks 15:00 Ancient Secrets: China’s Lost 08:30 Moone Boy 21:00 Unforgettable 21:00 Get Out Alive With Bear Pyramids 22:00 Dracula 09:00 Eastenders Grylls 16:00 Chasing UFOs 09:30 Doctors 23:00 True Detective 21:50 Dive Wars Australia 00:05 Chopped 17:00 Space Mysteries 10:00 Being Erica 22:40 Manhunt 18:00 Pirate Patrol 10:45 The Weakest Link 00:55 Amazing Wedding Cakes 23:30 Get Out Alive With Bear 01:45 Guy’s Big Bite 19:00 Ancient Secrets: China’s Lost 11:30 The Vicar Of Dibley Grylls Pyramids 12:00 Moone Boy 02:10 Guy’s Big Bite 02:35 Jenny Morris Cooks Morocco 20:00 Chasing UFOs 12:25 32 Brinkburn Street 21:00 Space Mysteries 13:15 Eastenders 03:00 Jenny Morris Cooks Morocco 00:00 A Good Day To Die Hard 03:25 Charly’s Cake Angels 22:00 Pirate Patrol 02:00 Lockout 13:45 Doctors 23:00 Megacities 14:15 Being Erica 03:50 Amazing Wedding Cakes 04:00 40 Days And Nights 15:00 As Time Goes By 04:40 Reza, Spice Prince Of 06:00 Marvel’s Doctor Strange 15:30 The Vicar Of Dibley Thailand 08:00 Iron Man 16:00 Moone Boy 00:00 Violetta 05:05 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 10:15 Hellboy: Blood & Iron 16:25 The Weakest Link 00:45 The Hive 05:30 Reza, Spice Prince Of 12:00 Escape From L.A. 17:10 Eastenders 00:50 Art Attack Thailand 14:00 A Good Day To Die Hard 17:40 Doctors 01:15 Art Attack 05:50 Siba’s Table 00:00 Mystery Girls 15:45 Iron Man 18:10 Being Erica 01:40 Jungle Junction 06:10 Sweet Genius 00:30 The Daily Show With Jon 18:00 Red Dawn 19:00 As Time Goes By 01:50 Jungle Junction 07:00 Roadtrip With G. Garvin Stewart 20:00 Escape From L.A. 19:30 Being Eileen 02:05 Jungle Junction 07:25 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 01:00 Two And A Half Men 22:00 Pitch Black 20:00 Call The Midwife 02:15 Jungle Junction 07:50 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 01:30 Getting On 20:45 Mistresses 02:30 Violetta 08:15 Chopped 02:00 Jonah From Tonga 21:35 Saxondale 03:10 The Hive 09:05 Barefoot Contessa - Back To 02:30 Louie 22:05 Money 03:20 Art Attack Basics 03:00 Back In The Game 23:00 Rev. 03:45 Art Attack 09:30 Farm Kings 03:30 The Michael J. Fox Show 23:30 Being Eileen 04:10 Jungle Junction 10:20 Recipes That Rock 04:00 New Girl 00:00 Lockout-PG15 04:20 Jungle Junction 10:45 Reza, Spice Prince Of 04:30 The Tonight Show Starring 02:00 40 Days And Nights-PG15 04:35 Jungle Junction Thailand Jimmy Fallon 04:00 Marvel’s Doctor Strange-PG 04:45 Jungle Junction 11:10 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 05:30 My Boys 06:00 Iron Man-PG15 05:00 Art Attack 11:35 Grandma’s Secret Cookbook 06:00 Last Man Standing 08:15 Hellboy: Blood & Iron-PG15 05:25 Art Attack 12:00 Chopped 06:30 The Simpsons 10:00 Escape From L.A.-PG15 05:50 Mouk 12:50 Siba’s Table 07:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 12:00 A Good Day To Die Hard 06:00 Dog With A Blog 13:15 Jenny Morris Cooks The 08:00 New Girl 00:00 Homes Under The Hammer 13:45 Iron Man-PG15 06:25 Liv And Maddie Riviera 08:30 My Boys 00:55 Simply Italian 16:00 Red Dawn-PG15 06:50 So Random 13:40 Mystery Diners 09:00 Back In The Game 01:15 Come Dine With Me 18:00 Escape From L.A.-PG15 07:15 I Didn’t Do It 14:05 Guy’s Grocery Games 09:30 Dads 02:05 Celebrity MasterChef 20:00 Pitch Black-PG15 07:40 Jessie 14:55 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 10:00 Hot In Cleveland 02:30 Rachel’s Favourite Food For 22:00 Police Story-PG15 08:05 Austin & Ally 15:20 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 10:30 The Simpsons Living 08:30 Binny And The Ghost 15:45 Farm Kings 11:00 The Tonight Show Starring 02:55 Antiques Roadshow 08:55 Suite Life On Deck 16:35 Chopped Jimmy Fallon 03:50 Come Dine With Me 09:20 Wizards Of Waverly Place 17:25 Jenny Morris Cooks The 12:00 Last Man Standing 04:10 Paul Hollywood’s Bread 09:45 Hannah Montana Riviera 12:30 New Girl THE EAST ON OSN MOVIES HD 04:40 Homes Under The Hammer 10:10 That’s So Raven 17:50 Reza, Spice Prince Of 13:00 My Boys 05:30 Simply Italian 19:00 Son Of Rambow-PG 04:00 Someday This Pain Will Be 14:00 Live ABC America This 10:35 Halloweentown 2: Kalabar’s Thailand 14:00 The Michael J. Fox Show 05:55 Come Dine With Me 00:00 Bad Milo!-18 21:00 Promised Land-PG15 Useful To You-PG15 Morning Revenge 18:15 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 14:30 Dads 06:40 Celebrity MasterChef 02:00 Maid In Manhattan-PG 23:00 For Greater Glory-PG15 06:00 Marvel’s The Invincible Iron 14:30 MSNBC First Look 12:15 Austin & Ally 18:40 Siba’s Table 15:00 Hot In Cleveland 07:10 Rachel’s Favourite Food For 04:00 Girl In Progress-PG15 Man-PG 15:00 Live NBC Today Show 12:40 Jessie 19:05 Grandma’s Secret Cookbook 15:30 The Daily Show With Jon Living 06:00 All In Good Time-PG15 08:00 Skyline-PG15 18:57 MSNBC Hardball W/ Chris 13:05 I Didn’t Do It 19:30 Mystery Diners Stewart 07:35 Paul Hollywood’s Bread 08:00 Parental Guidance-PG 09:45 One Direction: This Is Us-PG Matthews 13:30 So Random 19:55 Burger Land 16:00 Two And A Half Men 08:00 Antiques Roadshow 10:00 Maid In Manhattan-PG 11:30 Man Of Steel-PG15 19:38 MSNBC The Rachel 13:55 Liv And Maddie 20:20 Guy’s Grocery Games 16:30 Last Man Standing 08:50 Come Dine With Me 12:00 Son Of Rambow-PG 14:00 Despicable Me 2-PG Maddow Show 14:20 The Adventures Of Disney 21:10 Amazing Wedding Cakes 17:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 01:15 The East-18 09:15 Homes Under The Hammer 14:00 Bringing Down The House- 16:00 Skyline-PG15 20:19 MSNBC The Last Word W/ Fairies 22:00 Reza’s African Kitchen 18:00 Back In The Game 03:15 Dawn Rider-PG15 10:05 Bargain Hunt PG15 18:00 Stolen-PG15 Lawrence O’Donnell 14:55 Jessie 22:25 Reza’s African Kitchen 18:30 About A Boy 05:00 Return To Nim’s Island-PG 10:50 Come Dine With Me 16:00 Parental Guidance-PG 20:00 Parker-PG15 21:00 Live MSNBC Ronan Farrow 15:20 I Didn’t Do It 22:50 Ching’s Restaurant 19:00 The Simpsons 07:00 Sky Force-FAM 11:40 Celebrity MasterChef 18:00 In A World...-PG15 22:00 Insidious: Chapter 2-PG15 Daily 15:45 Liv And Maddie Redemption 19:30 Hot In Cleveland 09:00 The Butler-PG15 12:05 Rachel’s Favourite Food For 20:00 Friends With Kids-PG15 22:00 Live MSNBC The Reid 16:10 Austin & Ally 23:40 Burger Land 20:00 The Tonight Show Starring 11:15 The Chateau Meroux-PG15 Living 22:00 Schuks! Your Country Needs Report 16:35 Binny And The Ghost Jimmy Fallon 13:00 Peeples-PG15 12:30 Antiques Roadshow You-PG15 23:00 Live MSNBC The Cycle 17:00 I Didn’t Do It 21:00 The Daily Show With Jon 15:00 Epic-PG 13:20 Come Dine With Me 17:25 Jessie Stewart 16:45 The Butler-PG15 13:45 Homes Under The Hammer 17:50 Prank Stars 21:30 Two And A Half Men 19:00 The Heat-PG15 00:00 Live MSNBC Now With Alex 14:40 Bargain Hunt 18:15 Dog With A Blog 22:00 Web Therapy 21:00 3 Days To Kill-PG15 Wagner 15:25 Come Dine With Me 00:40 The Hungry Sailors 18:40 Good Luck Charlie 22:30 Ja’mie: Private School Girl 23:00 American Hustle-18 01:00 Live MSNBC The Ed Show 02:00 Top 14 Highlights 16:15 Celebrity MasterChef 01:30 Paul O’Grady: For The Love 19:05 I Didn’t Do It 23:00 Louie 02:00 Live MSNBC Politicsnation 02:30 Trans World Sport 16:40 Rachel’s Favourite Food For Of Dogs 01:00 The Twilight Saga: Breaking 19:30 Liv And Maddie 23:30 Late Night With Seth Meyers 03:00 Live NBC Nightly News 03:30 PGA European Tour Living 02:00 Emmerdale Dawn Pt. 2-PG15 03:30 ABC World News With David 19:55 Austin & Ally 02:25 Emmerdale 03:00 Stuck In Love-PG15 Highlights 17:10 Antiques Roadshow 20:20 Wizards Of Waverly Place Muir 04:30 Hero Indian Super League 18:00 Come Dine With Me 02:55 Coronation Street 05:00 Red Lights-PG15 04:00 Live MSNBC All In With Chris 20:45 Suite Life On Deck 03:25 Tricked 07:00 Old Stock-PG15 Highlights 18:25 Homes Under The Hammer 21:10 Hannah Montana Hayes 07:00 PGA Tour 19:15 Homes Under The Hammer 04:20 The Widower 09:00 Everything Must Go-PG15 01:00 Barbie And The Diamond 05:00 Live MSNBC The Rachel 21:35 That’s So Raven 05:15 Murdoch Mysteries 11:00 Red Lights-PG15 Castle 11:00 Top 14 Highlights 20:10 Nordic Cookery With Tareq 22:00 Suite Life On Deck 00:00 White Collar Maddow Show 11:30 Snooker - The Masters Taylor 06:10 The Jonathan Ross Show 01:00 Bates Motel 13:00 Christmas Magic-PG15 02:45 Home Alone 3 06:00 Live MSNBC The Last Word 22:25 A.N.T. Farm 07:05 Paul O’Grady: For The Love 15:00 Temptation: Confessions Of 04:30 The Happy Cricket 2 15:30 Top 14 Highlights 20:35 Nigellissima 22:50 Shake It Up 02:00 Banshee W/ Lawrence O’Donnell 16:00 Live Snooker - The Masters 21:00 Home Cooking Made Easy Of Dogs 03:00 Supernatural A Marriage Counselor-PG15 06:00 Garfield’s Pet Force 07:00 NBC Nightly News 23:10 Wolfblood 07:30 Tricked 17:00 Everything Must Go-PG15 08:00 Top Cat: The Movie 20:00 Futbol Mundial 21:25 Celebrity MasterChef 23:35 Wolfblood 04:00 Revenge 07:30 ABC World News With David 22:00 Live Snooker - The Masters 22:20 Antiques Roadshow 08:25 The Widower 05:00 Bones 19:00 The Factory-PG15 10:00 Barbie In The Nutcracker Muir 23:10 Come Dine With Me 09:20 The Chase 06:00 White Collar 21:00 Trespass-PG15 11:30 Everyone’s Hero 07:57 NBC Nightly News 23:35 The Good Cook 10:15 Murdoch Mysteries 07:00 Necessary Roughness 23:00 As I Lay Dying-18 13:00 The Swan Princess: A Royal 08:18 ABC World News With David 11:10 Emmerdale 08:00 C.S.I. 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MAN OF STEEL ON OSN MOVIES PREMIERE HD Classifieds

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015

Kuwait KNCC PROGRAMME FROM THURSDAY TO WEDNESDAY (08/01/2015 TO 14/01/2015)

SHARQIA-1 THE IMITATION GAME 2:15 PM 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 12:00 PM LEGEND OF THE NEVER BEAST 4:30 PM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 1:45 PM 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 6:15 PM THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 3:45 PM VICE 8:00 PM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 6:00 PM THE IMITATION GAME 10:00 PM 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 8:00 PM THE IMITATION GAME 12:15 AM THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 10:00 PM THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 12:15 AM MARINA-2 THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 11:45 AM SHARQIA-2 NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 2:00 PM SEVENTH SON-3D 11:45 AM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 4:00 PM SEVENTH SON 2:00 PM THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 6:00 PM SEVENTH SON-3D 4:00 PM THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 8:15 PM SEVENTH SON 6:15 PM THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 10:30 PM SEVENTH SON-3D 8:15 PM THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 12:45 AM SEVENTH SON 10:30 PM SEVENTH SON 12:45 AM MARINA-3 SEVENTH SON-3D 12:45 PM SHARQIA-3 SEVENTH SON 3:00 PM LEGEND OF THE NEVER BEAST 11:30 AM SEVENTH SON-3D 5:15 PM THE IMITATION GAME 1:15 PM SEVENTH SON 7:30 PM THE IMITATION GAME 3:30 PM SEVENTH SON 9:45 PM LEGEND OF THE NEVER BEAST 5:45 PM SEVENTH SON 12:05 AM THE IMITATION GAME 7:30 PM THE IMITATION GAME 9:45 PM AVENUES-1 THE IMITATION GAME 12:05 AM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 1:00 PM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 3:15 PM MUHALAB-1 NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 5:30 PM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 12:15 PM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 7:45 PM 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 2:30 PM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 10:00 PM THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 4:15 PM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 12:15 AM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 6:15 PM THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 8:15 PM AVENUES-2 THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 10:30 PM VICE 12:15 PM 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 12:45 AM VICE 2:15 PM VICE 4:15 PM MUHALAB-2 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 6:15 PM THE IMITATION GAME 11:30 AM 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 8:15 PM THE IMITATION GAME 1:45 PM 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 10:15 PM LEGEND OF THE NEVER BEAST 4:00 PM 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 12:15 AM THE IMITATION GAME 5:45 PM THE IMITATION GAME 8:00 PM AVENUES-3 VICE 10:15 PM AUTOMATA 1:15 PM THE IMITATION GAME 12:15 AM AUTOMATA 3:30 PM AUTOMATA 5:45 PM MUHALAB-3 VICE 8:00 PM SEVENTH SON-3D 12:45 PM AUTOMATA 10:15 PM SEVENTH SON 3:00 PM AUTOMATA 12:30 AM mobile 51080902. (C 4902) have changed my name as SEVENTH SON-3D 5:15 PM SEVENTH SON 7:30 PM 360º- 1 FOR SALE 8-1-2015 Lasya Priya Maddukuri and SEVENTH SON 9:45 PM SEVENTH SON 11:30 AM shall hence forth my name SEVENTH SON 12:05 AM SEVENTH SON 1:45 PM Toyota Camry - GL 2014, Sharing accommodation be known / called as Lasya SEVENTH SON-3D 4:00 PM FANAR-1 SEVENTH SON 6:15 PM light blue color, km 12000, available in a flat at Jabriya, Priya Maddukuri. This is for AUTOMATA 12:30 PM SEVENTH SON-3D 8:30 PM KD 4100. Mob: 50994848. area - 10 near Jabriya Indian kind information of all con- 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 2:30 PM SEVENTH SON 10:45 PM (C 4904) School for decent working cerned. AUTOMATA 4:15 PM SEVENTH SON 1:00 AM ladies or couple from 8-1-2015 UNBROKEN 6:15 PM VICE 9:00 PM 360º- 2 Mitsubishi Lancer GLX February-2015. Contact: AUTOMATA 11:00 PM TEVAR (HINDI) 1:15 PM 2013, white color, km 99300513. (C 4898) I, Thiru Sakthivel R. AUTOMATA 1:00 AM TEVAR (HINDI) 4:15 PM 44000, KD 2000. Tel: 5-1-2015 (Hindu) holder of Indian 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 7:15 PM 66729295. (C 4905) Passport No. E6574227, FANAR-2 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 9:15 PM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 11:30 AM 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 11:15 PM 12-1-2015 CHANGE OF NAME Subbaiyapillai street, THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 1:45 PM 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 1:15 AM Pattukkottai, Thanjavur, NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 3:45 PM Pajero jeep, newly paint, I, Greeshma Jayaraj holder NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB 5:45 PM 360º- 3 model 1996, color red, pass- THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 7:45 PM INTO THE WOODS 12:00 PM of Indian Passport No: Prayer timings THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 10:00 PM INTO THE WOODS 2:30 PM ing Sept 2015, use by a F3536524 R/o Aishwarya, THE WOMAN IN BLACK 2 ANGEL OF DEATH 12:15 AM INTO THE WOODS 5:00 PM lady. Call: 66152130. Kakkad P.O. Kakkad, Fajr: 05:20 TEVAR (HINDI) 7:30 PM 8-1-2015 FANAR-3 INTO THE WOODS 10:30 PM Kannur Dt, Kerala 670005, THE IMITATION GAME 11:45 AM VICE 1:00 AM hereby change my name to Shorook 06:44 THE IMITATION GAME 2:15 PM Greeshma Avish. (C 4903) VICE 4:45 PM AL-KOUT.1 ACCOMMODATION Duhr: 11:57 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 6:45 PM SEVENTH SON-3D 11:30 AM 10-1-2015 THE IMITATION GAME 8:30 PM SEVENTH SON 1:30 PM Asr: 14:51 090 (Kuwaiti Film) 10:45 PM SEVENTH SON-3D 3:30 PM Sharing accommodation in I, Lasya Priya, Holder of THE IMITATION GAME 12:45 AM SEVENTH SON 5:45 PM Sharhabel Hawally for sin- Indian Passport No: Z SEVENTH SON-3D 8:00 PM Maghrib: 17:10 MARINA-1 SEVENTH SON 10:15 PM gle / couple Filipino avail- 2519965, D/o Soma INTO THE WOODS 11:30 AM SEVENTH SON 12:30 AM able from January 5, 2015, Sundara Rao Maddukuri Isha: 18:31 with TFC. Please contact

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

Arrival Flights on Tuesday 13/1/2015 FDB 057 Dubai 14:30 Departure Flights on Tuesday 13/1/2015 UAE 872 Dubai 14:15 Airlines Flt Route Time GFA 221 Bahrain 15:00 Airlines Flt Route Time JZR 324 Al Najaf 14:25 BBC 043 Dhaka 00:05 OMA 645 Muscat 15:00 AIC 976 Goa/Chennai 00:05 KAC 673 Dubai 15:00 JAI 574 Mumbai 00:10 KAC 788 Jeddah 15:10 PIA 206 Lahore 00:40 QTR 1079 Doha 15:05 JZR 239 Amman 00:25 KAC 284 Dhaka 15:15 FDB 072 Dubai 00:45 FDB 058 Dubai 15:10 JZR 267 Beirut 00:30 ABY 127 Sharjah 15:45 JAI 573 Mumbai 01:10 KAC 617 Doha 15:15 KLM 411 Amsterdam/Dammam 00:40 UAE 857 Dubai 15:45 BBC 044 Dhaka 01:35 KNE 473 Jeddah 15:20 JZR 539 Cairo 00:40 FDB 051 Dubai 16:00 KLM 411 Amsterdam 01:55 SVA 501 Jeddah 15:45 THY 772 Istanbul 00:45 NIA 251 Alexandria 16:15 DLH 635 Frankfurt 02:15 GFA 222 Bahrain 15:45 FDB 069 Dubai 00:55 KAC 562 Amman 16:20 KAC 283 Dhaka 02:25 KAC 773 Riyadh 15:50 QTR 1084 Doha 01:00 QTR 1072 Doha 16:40 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 02:45 OMA 646 Muscat 16:00 PGT 858 Istanbul 01:35 RJA 640 Amman 16:55 THY 773 Istanbul 02:55 JZR 552 Alexandria 16:10 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 01:45 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 16:55 PGT 859 Istanbul 03:25 ABY 128 Sharjah 16:25 KAC 1786 Jeddah 02:25 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:15 KAC 381 Delhi 03:40 KAC 741 Dammam 17:00 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:30 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 UAE 854 Dubai 03:50 FDB 052 Dubai 17:00 UAE 853 Dubai 02:35 JZR 325 Al Najaf 17:50 FDB 068 Dubai 03:55 JZR 266 Beirut 17:05 JAI 526 Chennai/Abu Dhabi 02:50 UAL 982 IAD 17:55 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:05 NIA 252 Alexandria 17:15 FDB 067 Dubai 02:55 JZR 777 Jeddah 17:55 MSR 613 Cairo 04:10 QTR 1073 Doha 17:40 RJA 648 Amman 03:05 UAE 875 Dubai 18:00 KKK 6508 Istanbul 04:10 UAE 858 Dubai 17:45 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 03:10 TAR 328 Tunis/Dubai 18:05 PIA 206 Lahore 04:30 JZR 538 Cairo 17:45 MSR 612 Cairo 03:10 JZR 177 Dubai 18:20 QTR 1085 Doha 04:30 ETD 304 Abu Dhabi 17:50 KKK 6507 Istanbul 03:20 FDB 063 Dubai 18:40 MSC 406 Sohag 05:05 RJA 641 Amman 17:55 PIA 205 Lahore 03:20 ABY 121 Sharjah 18:40 QTR 1077 Doha 05:15 SVA 511 Riyadh 18:15 QTR 1076 Doha 03:45 KAC 786 Jeddah 18:45 THY 765 Istanbul 05:40 GFA 216 Bahrain 18:20 MSC 401 Alexandria 04:05 QTR 1080 Doha 18:50 FDB 070 Dubai 06:30 JZR 184 Dubai 18:40 THY 770 Istanbul 05:35 SYR 341 Damascus 18:55 JAI 525 Abu Dhabi/Chennai 06:35 JZR 238 Amman 18:50 DHX 170 Bahrain 05:40 KAC 618 Doha 19:15 JZR 164 Dubai 06:55 TAR 328 Tunis 18:55 BAW 157 London 06:40 KAC 774 Riyadh 19:15 RJA 649 Amman 07:05 JZR 134 Bahrain 19:10 KAC 416 Kuala Lumpur/Jakarta 06:45 AXB 393 Kozhikode 19:15 JZR 560 Sohag 07:10 UAL 982 Bahrain 19:15 KAC 412 Manila/Bangkok 07:10 KAC 542 Cairo 19:25 GFA 212 Bahrain 07:15 ABY 122 Sharjah 19:20 FDB 053 Dubai 07:45 KAC 674 Dubai 19:25 THY 771 Istanbul 07:30 UAE 876 Dubai 19:40 QTR 1086 Doha 07:50 KAC 678 Muscat/Abu Dhabi 19:25 FDB 054 Dubai 08:25 QTR 1081 Doha 19:50 SVA 512 Riyadh 07:55 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:30 BAW 156 London 08:45 FDB 064 Dubai 19:55 KAC 352 Kochi 08:10 KAC 166 Paris/Rome 19:40 QTR 1087 Doha 08:50 SYR 342 Damascus 19:55 KAC 302 Mumbai 08:20 KAC 104 London 19:55 KAC 513 Tehran 08:55 AXB 393 Kozhikode 20:15 KAC 206 Islamabad 08:25 KAC 742 Dammam 20:00 SVA 513 Riyadh 08:55 GFA 218 Bahrain 20:15 KAC 332 Trivandrum 08:30 JAI 572 Mumbai 20:00 KAC 671 Dubai 09:25 KAC 361 Colombo 20:50 UAE 855 Dubai 08:40 MSR 618 Alexandria 20:05 KAC 787 Jeddah 09:25 KAC 343 Chennai 20:55 FDB 8057 Dubai 08:55 FDB 061 Dubai 20:20 FDB 8058 Dubai 09:40 JAI 571 Mumbai 21:00 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:00 OMA 647 Muscat 20:20 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:40 MSR 607 Luxor 21:05 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 09:20 DLH 636 Frankfurt 20:50 KAC 101 London/New York 09:50 KAC 351 Kochi 21:15 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 ALK 229 Colombo 21:10 UAE 856 Dubai 09:55 OMA 648 Muscat 21:20 QTR 1070 Doha 10:00 MEA 402 Beirut 21:20 ETD 302 Abu Dhabi 10:20 FDB 062 Dubai 21:20 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:30 KAC 561 Amman 10:25 DLH 636 Dammam 21:35 IRA 675 Lar 10:40 FDB 073 Dubai 21:35 FDB 056 Dubai 10:35 DHX 171 Bahrain 21:50 UAE 873 Dubai 11:00 UAE 859 Dubai 21:40 QTR 1071 Doha 11:00 ALK 230 Colombo 22:10 MSC 405 Sohag 11:25 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:45 KAC 165 Rome/Paris 11:15 ETD 308 Abu Dhabi 22:15 JZR 165 Dubai 11:30 QTR 1074 Doha 21:55 GFA 214 Bahrain 11:25 KAC 301 Mumbai 22:15 MEA 404 Beirut 11:55 JZR 135 Bahrain 22:05 IRA 674 Lar 11:40 MEA 403 Beirut 22:20 UAE 871 Dubai 12:50 KLM 415 Amsterdam 22:15 KAC 541 Cairo 12:05 FDB 074 Dubai 22:30 MSR 610 Cairo 13:00 ETD 309 Abu Dhabi 22:15 JZR 776 Jeddah 12:20 GFA 220 Bahrain 22:30 KAC 514 Tehran 13:10 FDB 059 Dubai 22:30 KAC 677 Abu Dhabi/Muscat 12:20 UAE 860 Dubai 22:50 FDB 8063 Dubai 13:25 AIC 981 Chennai/Hyderabad/Ahmedabad 22:30 MSC 402 Alexandria 12:25 KAC 205 Islamabad 22:55 KAC 382 Delhi 13:45 PIA 239 Sialkot 22:35 UAE 874 Dubai 12:30 ETD 310 Abu Dhabi 23:00 JZR 561 Sohag 13:45 UAL 981 Bahrain 23:10 MEA 405 Beirut 12:55 QTR 1075 Doha 23:05 KAC 672 Dubai 13:55 JZR 185 Dubai 23:15 KAC 785 Jeddah 13:00 KLM 415 Dammam/Amsterdam 23:15 QTR 1078 Doha 14:05 JZR 553 Alexandria 23:25 JZR 176 Dubai 13:45 KAC 411 Bangkok/Manila 23:30 KNE 472 Jeddah 14:25 THY 764 Istanbul 23:35 MSR 611 Cairo 14:00 PIA 240 Sialkot 23:35 SVA 500 Jeddah 14:30 FDB 071 Dubai 23:45 FDB 8064 Dubai 14:10 FDB 060 Dubai 23:55 DIAL161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION stars34 TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 CROSSWORD 783 STAR TRACK

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

This is a good day to start new projects–your instinct for success is in full This may not be a good time to try new things or break away from the old bloom. If you must explain any motivations, be sure you are on solid ground–be self-criti- routine. There may be a heavy burden of responsibility just now–you will probably have cal. Make sure others understand your position as well as you. Your communicative abili- to work hard to make yourself understood. However, this period also marks a time when ties are accented. This is an excellent time to sway others to your cause through speech- many projects come to fruition, especially large ones. Clear thinking and communication es or clever arguments; your thinking is most lucid and grasping. Be careful, though, of among co-workers is important. You should not hesitate in going great lengths to make taking arguments to the extreme in trying to find a logical reason for every event that yourself clear–this could prove very productive. If you are into some sort of educational occurs–especially the actions of loved ones. Companionship with others is most reward- studies, this afternoon, studying and research are highly favored. Exchanging stories with ing and you should take every opportunity to be with friends. You can be helping them old chums later today is easy and extremely pleasant. There is a chance to have a special as much as their presence is helping you. time with someone you love this evening.

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

You will find communication problems of the past seem to magically clear Everything points to you making more and more decisions. You have suffi- up. Papers lost are found, etc. At this time, you may actively be concerned about the wel- cient energy to apply yourself to the workplace as well as to an additional job that could fare of others in your business or people who work under you. Try listening to their needs help to bring in extra money. If you need the support, psychological or physical, the sup- before deciding for yourself how best to help them. You may react suddenly against port will be there for you. Clear decisions affecting others could be made. You put forth things that previously seemed to be the normal thing to do. Also, this is a good time to an effort to improve your income, through physical or manual activity. This is a time lead the way on a project, for your originality is strong. You may need to feel more secure when the desire for material success and considerable monetary gain is great. Perhaps it now, perhaps through some material or sentimental objects that you possess. There may is time to purchase a home instead of renting apartments. This is a great time to plan be a great deal of financial panic with your monetary situation and it may be as difficult to future entertainment with loved ones, perhaps a concert, museum trip, art showing or a gauge as an elevator going up and down. play with your loved one. Your powers of creativity are great.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) Now is the time to make time for a special date, apply for a job or otherwise This is a productive working day–an excellent time to get many things make yourself known. You may spend a great deal of time engaged in intel- accomplished. You are self-assertive but if you find yourself working on a lectual pursuits in the home. You may even decide to establish a business or use your project, it would prove favorable for all if you elicited the aid of associates. You may have ACROSS DOWN home and family members in some manner to succeed financially–perhaps a family busi- the opportunity to speak up about your ideas for a new delivery time that would help 1. Any competition. 1. A summary that repeats the substance of a ness. There is an air of seriousness to all your dealings with partners now. You are con- eliminate a backlog of merchandise–coming or going. This would be best in written form cerned more about the future of business, than at any other time. Later today you will be 5. A naturally occurring weak estrogenic hor- longer discussion. and signed with a date so that you are the one getting credit for your ideas. You make a able to separate yourself from business. There is not only a desire for outdoor, physical mone secreted by the mammalian ovary. 2. Scale-like structure between the base of positive difference at work and higher-ups will notice and respond in positive ways. Later activity this afternoon, but there is ample opportunity to partake in it. You truly enjoy today you may find yourself enjoying a long conversation with friends, writing a letter, or 12. The executive agency that advises the the wing and the halter of a two-winged fly. crowds–watching others and learning about people. Love is in bloom this evening. President on the federal budget. 3. A shrub of the genus Carissa having fra- making a special purchase over the internet. Mental endeavors are favored. 15. A feeling of strong eagerness (usually in grant white flowers and plumlike red to pur- favor of a person or cause). ple-black fruits. 16. An adult member of the Boy Scouts 4. Spin or twist together so as to form a cord. Cancer (June 21-July 22) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) movement. 5. The rate at which red blood cells settle out This is a positive day! Schedule that conference; give that party; plan for the Tensions between you and a partner or loved one this morning may increase 17. European strong-scented perennial herb in a tube of blood under standardized condi- future. There are emotional beginnings–a new attitude–perhaps the establish- because of a difference of opinion. You may need to take the first step in some sort of negotia- with gray-green bitter-tasting leaves. tions. ment of new habit patterns that will set the tone for you for quite some time to come! This could tions–agree to disagree first and then sit down and write out what each of you want for an mean an addition to the family–a birth or a wedding. Your ability to make things run smoothly 18. A round shape formed by a series of con- 6. Flesh of fish found in colder waters of end result. Before making decisions, give this some time to develop, you will be pleased with should produce excellent results. You are extremely communicative to associates around you. centric circles. northern Atlantic coast of the United States. the outcome. This is also a good day for planning, writing or expanding your intellectual hori- This is a most positive time to exchange ideas and seek new business–not necessarily a job posi- zons whether you are in the workplace or at home. Negotiations in the workplace go very well 19. The act of rubbing down. 7. Leaves of the tobacco plant dried and pre- tion. You may find yourself running errands for others this afternoon. This evening is yours to as you discover the agreed upon outcome of this meeting. Perhaps two departments have 20. Either extremity of something that has pared for smoking or ingestion. enjoy. This could mean a dinner date or a soak in the tub. Enjoy your surroundings this evening. different ideas on what is needed and can compromise. Tonight requires a helmet–fun. length. 8. Father of the storm gods Marut. 21. A name that has been assumed tem- 9. Discharge from the external ear. porarily. 10. Not of long duration. Aquarius (January 20- February 18) 23. Queen of England as the 6th wife of 11. Bulky grayish-brown eagle with a short Leo (July 23-August 22) Henry VIII (1512-1548). wedge-shaped white tail. This is a great time to be with others and to work together. You may find This is a busy day! Concentrate on your own goals–firm up ongoing proj- 25. An archaic name for Easter or Passover. 12. (Greek mythology) One of the mountain the need to reorganize and be more conservative in the workplace. All of this should go ects or begin new ones. Working alone today is not a problem for you. The encouragement 27. A gathering of passengers sufficient to fill nymphs. rather smoothly. Your more common sense qualities are obvious and found to be valu- or advice of others is not really necessary for now. Now is your chance to be yourself–for an automobile. 13. Tough Asiatic grass whose culms are able. You have the foresight to write out an outline before you give a lecture or advise yourself. Good communication is at a high just now. Your timing should be perfect and others. If you are not in charge, you could find yourself running your family or your per- those around you should find you most natural. You could come up with new solutions. 30. A small hard fruit. used for ropes and baskets. sonal life as finely tuned as those running a big company. You usually have the zest and Do not forget to include some physical activity in your day. There is a chance to under- 31. A pilgrimage to Mecca. 14. English monk and scholar (672-735). enthusiasm that is necessary to accomplish many things. Also, this is a time to clear up dif- stand those around you and to have a special time with someone you love. General good 34. Relating to or characteristic of or occur- 22. Lac purified by heating and filtering. ferences with a friend by speaking your mind. You express inner confidence and assertive- feeling and harmony among family members and friends make this a happy time. A ring on the sea or ships. 24. The seventh month of the Moslem calen- ness in approaching and communicating with others. change of scenery may be in order soon. 36. A European river. dar. 38. A Loloish language. 26. A public promotion of some product or Virgo (August 23-September 22) 40. An edge tool with a heavy bladed head service. Pisces (February 19-March 20) mounted across a handle. 28. Xerophytic evergreen shrubs. Your actions may be slowed today, helping you to be more realistic about There is much contemplative thinking about your work at this time. There 43. A group of islands in the southeastern 29. A doctor's degree in optometry. your abilities and expectations for success. You take a serious attitude to just about all should also be a great deal of communication about ways in which you can help improve West Indies. 32. Of or relating to the palm of the hand or aspects of your life. This is an excellent time to sit down and get many things accom- working conditions for a particular group of people. You should find this a good day to 45. A high-crowned black cap (usually made plished. You should take note to make sure that you are clearly understood when speak- communicate with members of the opposite sex. Your disposition is open and welcome to to the area at the base of the thumb. all you meet. You are filled with energy that is best applied in your work or in accomplish- of felt or sheepskin) worn by men in Turkey 33. An angry disturbance. ing with superiors–there could be misunderstandings. If needed, make this a day to do your research. Interactions with the opposite sex on a professional level may occur often ing your goals. This is also a most favorable time to work in a group of close associates. and Iran and the Caucasus. 35. Praise, glorify, or honor. this week; dress for success. Take the time before making any major decisions about the Changes at home should be undertaken soon and this will secure your peace of mind. Relations with a spouse or business partner are on solid ground. Expressing affection 48. (Akkadian) God of wisdom. 37. The district occupied entirely by the city future of your career or someone else’s. This afternoon you will be visiting with old should come easily. Don’t worry, something borrowed will be returned. 49. A bachelor's degree in naval science. of Washington. friends. Grab a party hat, there are celebrations to enjoy. 50. A waste pipe that carries away sewage or 39. Cubes of meat marinated and cooked on surface water. a skewer usually with vegetables. WORD SEARCH PUZZLE 51. A Russian river. 41. With rapid movements. Yesterday’s Solution 55. Of or relating to near the ear. 42. Someone who works (or provides work- 56. Broad in the beam. ers) during a strike. 59. A rare heavy polyvalent metallic element 44. A state in midwestern United States. that resembles manganese chemically and is 46. A French river. used in some alloys. 47. A city in western Lithuania on the Baltic 60. A small drink of liquor. Sea. 61. A light touch or stroke. 52. The acetylated derivative of salicylic acid. 62. Owed and payable immediately or on 53. A Mid-Atlantic state. demand. 54. A small cake leavened with yeast. 64. Any of numerous venomous fanged 57. Hard white substance covering the snakes of warmer parts of both hemispheres. crown of a tooth. 67. A white soft metallic element that tar- 58. West Indian tree having racemes of fra- nishes readily. grant white flowers and yielding a durable 70. Half the width of an em. timber and resinous juice. 72. North American republic containing 50 63. Relatively small fast-moving sloth. states - 48 conterminous states in North 65. An inhabitant of Lappland. America plus Alaska in northwest North 66. Small cubes with 1 to 6 spots on the America and the Hawaiian Islands in the faces. Pacific Ocean. 68. Common Indian weaverbird. 75. A Chadic language spoken south of Lake 69. (Old Testament) In Judeo-Christian Chad. mythology. 77. A tricycle (usually propelled by ped- 71. The cry made by sheep. alling). 73. 4-wheeled motor vehicle. 78. Type genus of the family Myacidae. 74. A doctor's degree in dental medicine. 79. The lowest brass wind instrument. 76. A metallic element of the rare earth 80. A deciduous tree of the family Ulmaceae group. that grows in the southeastern United States. 81. A barrier constructed to contain the flow or water or to keep out the sea.

Yesterday’s Solution

Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 information

For labor-related inquiries and complaints: INTERNATIONAL Call MSAL hotline 128 CALLS

Afghanistan 0093 Luxembourg 00352 GOVERNORATE PHARMACY ADDRESS PHONE Albania 00355 Macau 00853 Algeria 00213 Macedonia 00389 Ahmadi Sama Safwan Fahaeel Makka St 23915883 Andorra 00376 Madagascar 00261 Sabah Hospital 24812000 Abu Halaifa Abu Halaifa-Coastal Rd 23715414 Angola 00244 Majorca 0034 Amiri Hospital 22450005 Danat Al-Sultan Mahboula Block 1, Coastal Rd 23726558 Anguilla 001264 Malawi 00265 Maternity Hospital 24843100 Jahra Modern Jahra Jahra-Block 3 Lot 1 24575518 Antiga 001268 Malaysia 0060 Madina Munawara Jahra-Block 92 24566622 Argentina 0054 Maldives 00960 Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital 25312700 Capital Ahlam Fahad Al-Salem St 22436184 Armenia 00374 Mali 00223 Chest Hospital 24849400 Khaldiya Coop Khaldiya Coop 24833967 Australia 0061 Malta 00356 Austria 0043 Marshall Islands 00692 Farwaniya Hospital 24892010 Farwaniya New Shifa Farwaniya Block 40 24734000 Ferdous Coop Ferdous Coop 24881201 Bahamas 001242 Martinique 00596 Adan Hospital 23940620 Modern Safwan Old Kheitan Block 11 24726638 Bahrain 00973 Mauritania 00222 Ibn Sina Hospital 24840300 Bangladesh 00880 Mauritius 00230 Hawally Tariq Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St 25726265 Barbados 001246 Mayotte 00269 Al-Razi Hospital 24846000 Hana Salmiya-Amman St 25647075 Ikhlas Hawally-Beirut St 22625999 Belarus 00375 Mexico 0052 Physiotherapy Hospital 24874330/9 Hawally & Rawdha Hawally & Rawdha Coop 22564549 Belgium 0032 Micronesia 00691 Ghadeer Jabriya-Block 1A 25340559 Belize 00501 Moldova 00373 Kindy Jabriya-Block 3B 25326554 Benin 00229 Monaco 00377 Ibn Al-Nafis Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St 25721264 Mishrif Coop Mishrif Coop 25380581 Bermuda 001441 Mongolia 00976 Kaizen center 25716707 Salwa Coop Salwa Coop 25628241 Bhutan 00975 Montserrat 001664 Rawda 22517733 Bolivia 00591 Morocco 00212 Bosnia 00387 Mozambique 00258 Adaliya 22517144 Botswana 00267 Myanmar (Burma) 0095 Khaldiya 24848075 Brazil 0055 Namibia 00264 Brunei 00673 Nepal 00977 Kaifan 24849807 Bulgaria 00359 Netherlands 0031 Shamiya 24848913 Burkina 00226 Netherlands Antilles 00599 Burundi 00257 New Caledonia 00687 Shuwaikh 24814507 Cambodia 00855 New Zealand 0064 Abdullah Salem 22549134 Cameroon 00237 Nicaragua 00505 Canada 001 Nigar 00227 Nuzha 22526804 Cape Verde 00238 Nigeria 00234 Industrial Shuwaikh 24814764 Cayman Islands 001345 Niue 00683 Central African 00236 Norfolk Island 00672 Qadsiya 22515088 Chad 00235 N. Ireland (UK) 0044 Dasmah 22532265 Chile 0056 North Korea 00850 Bneid Al-Gar 22531908 China 0086 Norway 0047 Colombia 0057 Oman 00968 Shaab 22518752 Comoros 00269 Pakistan 0092 Qibla 22459381 Congo 00242 Palau 00680 Cook Islands 00682 Panama 00507 Ayoun Al-Qibla 22451082 Costa Rica 00506 Papua New Guinea 00675 Mirqab 22456536 Croatia 00385 Paraguay 00595 Cuba 0053 Peru 0051 Sharq 22465401 Cyprus 00357 Philippines 0063 Salmiya 25746401 Cyprus (Northern) 0090392 Poland 0048 Czech Republic 00420 Portugal 00351 Jabriya 25316254 Denmark 0045 Puerto Rico 001787 Maidan Hawally 25623444 Diego Garcia 00246 Qatar 00974 Djibouti 00253 Romania 0040 Bayan 25388462 Dominica 001767 Russian Federation 007 Mishref 25381200 Dominican Republic 001809 Rwanda 00250 W Hawally 22630786 Ecuador 00593 Saint Helena 00290 Egypt 0020 Saint Kitts 001869 Sabah 24810221 El Salvador 00503 Saint Lucia 001758 Jahra 24770319 England (UK) 0044 Saint Pierre 00508 Equatorial Guinea 00240 Saint Vincent 001784 New Jahra 24575755 Eritrea 00291 Samoa US 00684 West Jahra 24772608 Estonia 00372 Samoa West 00685 Ethiopia 00251 San Marino 00378 South Jahra 24775066 Falkland Islands 00500 Sao Tone 00239 North Jahra 24775992 Faroe Islands 00298 Saudi Arabia 00966 Fiji 00679 Scotland (UK) 0044 North Jleeb 24311795 Finland 00358 Senegal 00221 Ardhiya 24884079 France 0033 Seychelles 00284 Firdous 24892674 French Guiana 00594 Sierra Leone 00232 French Polynesia 00689 Singapore 0065 Omariya 24719048 Gabon 00241 Slovakia 00421 N Khaitan 24710044 Gambia 00220 Slovenia 00386 Georgia 00995 Solomon Islands 00677 Fintas 23900322 Germany 0049 Somalia 00252 Ghana 00233 South Africa 0027 Gibraltar 00350 South Korea 0082 Greece 0030 Spain 0034 Greenland 00299 Sri Lanka 0094 PRIVATE CLINICS Grenada 001473 Sudan 00249 Guadeloupe 00590 Suriname 00597 Guam 001671 Swaziland 00268 Guatemala 00502 Sweden 0046 Ophthalmologists Plastic Surgeons Paediatricians Endocrinologist Guinea 00224 Switzerland 0041 Dr. Abidallah Al-Mansoor 25622444 Dr. Mohammad Al-Khalaf 22547272 Dr. Khaled Hamadi 25665898 Guyana 00592 Syria 00963 Dr. Abd Al-Naser Al-Othman 25339330 Dr. Samy Al-Rabeea 25752222 Dr. Abdal-Redha Lari 22617700 Dr. Abd Al-Aziz Al-Rashed 25340300 Haiti 00509 Serbia 00381 Dr. Masoma Habeeb 25321171 Dr. Abdel Quttainah 25625030/60 Dr. Zahra Qabazard 25710444 Dr. Ahmad Al-Ansari 25658888 Holland (Netherlands) 0031 Taiwan 00886 Dr. Mubarak Al-Ajmy 25739999 Family Doctor Dr. Sohail Qamar 22621099 Honduras 00504 Tanzania 00255 Dr. Mohsen Abel 25757700 Dr. Kamal Al-Shomr 25329924 Dr Divya Damodar 23729596/23729581 Dr. Snaa Maaroof 25713514 Hong Kong 00852 Thailand 0066 Dr Adnan Hasan Alwayl 25732223 Physiotherapists & VD Hungary 0036 Toga 00228 Psychiatrists Dr. Pradip Gujare 23713100 Dr. Abdallah Al-Baghly 25732223 Dr. Zacharias Mathew 24334282 Dr. Deyaa Shehab 25722291 Ibiza (Spain) 0034 Tonga 00676 Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) Dr. Esam Al-Ansari 22635047 Iceland 00354 Tokelau 00690 Dr. Ahmed Fouad Mouner 24555050 Ext 510 Dr Eisa M. Al-Balhan 22613623/0 Dermatology Dr. Musaed Faraj Khamees 22666288 India 0091 Trinidad 001868 Dr. Abdallah Al-Ali 25644660 Gynaecologists & Obstetricians Dr. Mohammed Salam Rheumatologists: Indian Ocean 00873 Tunisia 00216 Dr. Abd Al-Hameed Al-Taweel 25646478 DrAdrian arbe 23729596/23729581 Bern University 23845955 Indonesia 0062 Turkey 0090 Dr. Sanad Al-Fathalah 25311996 Dr. Verginia s.Marin 2572-6666 ext 8321 Dentists Dr. Adel Al-Awadi 25330060 Dr. Mohammad Al-Daaory 25731988 Iran 0098 Tuvalu 00688 Dr. Fozeya Ali Al-Qatan 22655539 Dr Anil Thomas 3729596/3729581 Dr. Ismail Al-Fodary 22620166 Dr. Khaled Al-Jarallah 25722290 Iraq 00964 Uganda 00256 Dr. Majeda Khalefa Aliytami 25343406 Dr. Shamah Al-Matar 22641071/2 Dr. Mahmoud Al-Booz 25651426 Ireland 00353 Ukraine 00380 Dr. Ahmad Al-Khooly 25739272 Dr. Anesah Al-Rasheed 22562226 Internist, Chest & Heart General Practitioners Italy 0039 United Arab Emirates 00976 Dr. Abidallah Al-Amer 22561444 Dr. Mohamme Y Majidi 24555050 Ext 123 Dr. Salem soso 22618787 DR.Mohammes Akkad 24555050 Ext 210 Ivory Coast 00225 United Kingdom 0044 Dr. Faysal Al-Fozan 22619557 General Surgeons Dr. Yousef Al-Omar 24719312 Dr. Mohammad Zubaid Jamaica 001876 Uruguay 00598 Dr. Abdallateef Al-Katrash 22525888 Dr. Tarek Al-Mikhazeem 23926920 Dr. Amer Zawaz Al-Amer 22610044 MB, ChB, FRCPC, PACC Japan 0081 USA 001 Dr. Abidallah Al-Duweisan 25653755 Dr. Kathem Maarafi 25730465 Dr. Mohammad Yousef Basher 25327148 Assistant Professor Of Medicine Jordan 00962 Uzbekistan 00998 Dr. Abdallah Ahmad Eyadah 25655528 Dr. Bader Al-Ansari 25620111 Internists, Chest & Heart Head, Division of Cardiology Kazakhstan 007 Vanuatu 00678 Dr. Nabeel Al-Ayoobi 24577781 Neurologists Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital 25339667 Dr. Adnan Ebil 22639939 Kenya 00254 Venezuela 00582 Dr. Dina Abidallah Al-Refae 25333501 Dr. Sohal Najem Al-Shemeri 25633324 Dr. Mousa Khadada 22666300 Consultant Cardiologist Kiribati 00686 Vietnam 0084 Urologists Dr. Jasem Mola Hassan 25345875 Dr. Latefa Al-Duweisan 25728004 Dr. Farida Al-Habib 2611555-2622555 Kuwait 00965 Virgin Islands UK 001284 Dr. Ali Naser Al-Serfy 22641534 Gastrologists MD, PH.D, FACC Dr. Fawzi Taher Abul 22639955 Dr. Nadem Al-Ghabra 25355515 Kyrgyzstan 00996 Virgin Islands US 001340 Dr. Sami Aman 22636464 Inaya German Medical Center Dr. Khaleel Abidallah Al-Awadi 22616660 Dr. Mobarak Aldoub 24726446 Laos 00856 Wales (UK) 0044 Dr. Mohammad Al-Shamaly 25322030 Te: 2575077 Dr. Adel Al-Hunayan FRCS (C) 25313120 Dr Nasser Behbehani 25654300/3 Latvia 00371 Yemen 00967 Dr. Foad Abidallah Al-Ali 22633135 Fax: 25723123 Dr. Leons Joseph 66703427 Lebanon 00961 Yugoslavia 00381 Soor Center Liberia 00231 Zambia 00260 Psychologists [email protected] Tel: 2290-1677 Kaizen center Noor Clinic William Schuilenberg, RPC 2290-1677 Libya 00218 Zimbabwe 00263 /Psychotherapists www.soorcenter.com Zaina Al Zabin, M.Sc. 2290-1677 Fax: 2290 1688 25716707 23845955 Lithuania 00370 lifestyle TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 AWARDS Highs and lows in fashion from the Golden Globes

ith lots of easy breezy makeup, carpet, was featured in all silhouettes, from minimal jewelry and loose hair, Helen Mirren in a fitted Dolce and Gabbana Wthe Golden Globes opened the embellished gown to “Girls” stars Lena awards season with a red carpet chock-full Dunham in a backless satin Zac Posen and of sparkly metallics, bright whites and dra- Allison Williams in a strapless sequined matic reds. Among those lauded by fashion Armani Prive number. pros Sunday night at the Beverly Hills, Taylor Schilling opted for a deep red California, awards night was Julianne Ralph Lauren halterneck gown with a flow- Moore as she led a parade of silver in cus- ing skirt. But welcome pops of color amid tom Givenchy Haute Couture by Riccardo the red and white came from nominees Tisci. Her sequins faded to black and a cas- such as Amy Adams, who opted for a peri- cade of feathers at the bottom. winkle Versace one-shouldered gown. “For me she was it. She looked amazing, Maggie Gyllenhaal opted for a dusky but the metallic trend was debated all over pink strapless dress and Anna Kendrick social media. A lot of people see it as very channeled her “Into The Woods” character flashy but I think it looks great because it’s Cinderella in a blush pink embellished just a new, totally different texture and Monique Lhuillier gown. Last year’s red car- something that’s more interesting than just pet darling Lupita Nyong’o stood out in a the same old strapless gowns,” said Eric purple Giambattista Valli gown covered in Wilson, fashion news director for InStyle ruffled flower motifs, which Wilson said led magazine. Style and beauty expert Mary the trend for texture tonight. Alice Stephenson agreed, adding Emma “There’s a real movement in 3-D texture Stone’s sparkly silver-and-black Lanvin in fashion, and it looks like Lupita is wear- jumpsuit to her top five. It had a big floor- ing fireworks,” he said. “She wears bright length sash at the waist, after all. colors so beautifully, it’s quite stunning.” “Emma Stone broke a lot of rules and Jessica Chastain led the metallic trend in a that’s what Golden Globes fashion is about. bronze Versace plunging number, while It was this great respite from all the boring Reese Witherspoon went for all out glam- gowns. And her hair was down. It was our in silver sequined fitted Calvin Klein. super glamorous and a little bit edgy,” she Jennifer Lopez shimmered in a plunging said. Extending last year’s red trend was silver Zuhair Murad. — AP standout Viola Davis in Donna Karan Atelier. And there was plenty for us to love or hate, including a daring white Vera Wang Collection gown for “Gone Girl” co- star Rosamund Pike. She showed off midriff cutouts, a strappy barely there back and plunging neckline soon after giving birth.

Singer/actress Jennifer Lopez The look was criticized by some as ill-fit- it completely relevant on today’s modern ting at the top but lauded by Aya Kanai, carpet,” King said. Ruth Wilson of “The executive fashion director of Cosmopolitan Affair” stood alone in green, an edgy form- and Seventeen, as “white hot and sexy.” A fitting Prada with a high neck and black- chartreuse Gucci column gown worn by and-turquoise detailing. Other highs and Naomi Watts with a knockout diamond lows: Bulgari Serpenti necklace was a question- Amal Clooney: The awards season debut Julianne Moore able color to others while she was lauded of George’s bride was much anticipated. as a vision by Joyann King, editor of Her long, baggy white gloves with a black HarpersBazaar.com. “I love how she took Dior Haute Couture one-shoulder gown the classic Old Hollywood glamour equa- and long Harry Winston earrings had lots tion - memorable hue, over-the top jewels, of fingers tweeting. “To glove or not to red lip and Veronica Lake curls - and made glove,” laughed Stephenson. “It was a big moment. People had high expectations for what she was going to wear. I think the gloves were ill-fitting. Her hair was down and she had that train coming off the Dior dress and the long earrings. It could have been a modern Audrey Hepburn moment but it wasn’t.” Uzo Aduba: Crazy eyes was, in a word, awesome. The “Orange Is the New Black” co-star rarely disappoints on the red car- pet. This time around she wore a halter- style beaded gun metal design by Randi Rahm with ruby touches and a crystal- embellished neckline. “She just looked hot! Her hair looked great smoothed back,” Kanai said. Kerry Washington: Usually solidly on point, she wore an of-the-moment midi length design by Mary Katrantzou. It was off-the-shoulder with pink and purple pan- els that were “too competitive with each other,” King said. “A monochromatic color Amy Adams choice would have been better.” Stephenson agreed. “It was a little too pris- tine and buttoned up. She did not look comfortable.”

White, red and blue White was the chosen hue for the chilly Actress Sienna Miller night. Nominee Emily Blunt spun a Grecian twist on the classic white dress in a draped Michael Kors gown, while Kate Hudson opted for a flesh-baring Versace fitted dress with cutouts. Julia Louis-Dreyfus kept a sleek look in Kate Hudson one-shouldered Narciso Rodriguez. Sienna Miller in Miu Miu and a pregnant Keira Knightley in Chanel opted for white with Amal Clooney floral prints. Red, often regarded as a risky choice for stars for fear of blending into the

Lena Dunham

Emily Blunt Julia Louis-Dreyfus Keira Knightley Viola Davis Viola lifestyle TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 AWARDS Lupita Nyong’o Lupita Emma Stone Anna Kendrick Naomi Watts Ruth Wilson

Maggie Gyllenhaal Salma Hayek

Allison Williams

Jennifer Aniston Helen Mirren

Kate Beckinsale

Eva LaRue Diane Kruger Kerry Washington Reese Witherspoon

Katie Holmes Chrissy Teigen Heidi Klum Nina Dobrev Catherine Zeta-Jones Catherine lifestyle TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 AWARDS

In this image released by NBC, producer Jonathan Sehring, foreground, accepts the award for best dramatic film Jonathan Sehring, from left, Richard Linklater, Lorelei Linklater, Cathleen Sutherland, Patricia Arquette, Ellar for ‘Boyhood’ at the 72nd Annual Golden Globe Awards on Sunday at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, Coltrane, John Sloss and Ethan Hawke pose in the press room with the award for best motion picture - drama for Calif. — AP/AFP‘Boyhood,’ photos ‘Grand‘Boyhood’. Budapest Hotel’ top Golden Globe Awards

oyhood” continued its award sea- gory last year for “American Hustle,” and she son streak by winning three had predicted on the red carpet that she “Bawards, including best drama, at wouldn’t be winning again. “To say I’m under- the 72nd Golden Globes on Sunday. Director prepared for this moment is a huge under- Richard Linklater and supporting actress statement,” Adams said. “Huge! I didn’t even Patricia Arquette were the widely-lauded film’s apply lip gloss.” other winners. The musical/comedy category offered a surprise, with “The Grand Budapest Difficult material Hotel” edging out “Birdman” for best film. On the TV side, the Golden Globes lived up Director Wes Anderson thanked Hollywood to its reputation as the hippest award show, Foreign Press members “Dagmar, Munawar, often giving prizes to freshman shows over Helmut, Anka...” continuing with the list of veterans. Showtime’s “The Affair” won best TV exotic-sounding names. drama and its star Ruth Wilson won best Eddie Redmayne won best actor, drama for actress. Newcomer Gina Rodriguez won best “The Theory of Everything,” while Julianne actress in a TV comedy for CW’s “Jane the Moore won best actress, for the indie “Still Virgin.” A shaken Rodriguez thanked everyone Alice.” Backstage, the actress said she was from her fellow cast to CBS chief Leslie going to celebrate by “eating a lot of potato Moonves. Netflix had a good night. Kevin chips. I haven’t eaten since 3:30 pm.” Michael Spacey landed his first-ever Golden Globe for Keaton won best actor in a musical/comedy “House of Cards.” “This is the eighth time I’ve for “Birdman.” He talked about growing up in been nominated,” he said. on a Pennsylvania farmhouse, as the seventh “I cannot believe I won.” Maggie Gyllenhaal child of a large family. “I couldn’t remember a won best actress in a TV mini-series for the time when my father wasn’t working two jobs,” streaming service’s “The Honorable Woman.” Keaton said. He teared up when speaking She talked about the wealth of roles for differ- ent women on TV. “When I look around the room at the women who are around here, what I see actually are women who are some- times powerful and sometimes not. Sometimes sexy and sometimes not. Sometimes honorable and sometimes not,” she said. Joanne Froggatt won best supporting actress for “Downton Abbey.” She thanked the show’s creator Julian Fellowes and made note of the difficult material involving her character. “After the storyline aired, I received a number of letters from survivors of rape,” she said. In this image released by NBC, filmmaker Wes Anderson, second left, accepts the award for best motion picture comedy or musical for FX’s “Fargo” picked up the award for best ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’. miniseries or TV movie, edging the likes of did an impersonation of Bill Cosby, who has ing actor for his portrayal in HBO’s adaptation ‘The Monuments Men,’” Clooney joked. “It’s a HBO’s “True Detective.” Its star, Billy Bob been in the news for a series of rape allega- of “The Normal Heart,” and he acknowledged humbling thing when you find someone to Thornton, also won the award for best actor in Richard Linklater poses in the press room tions. the victims of HIV/AIDs. “To the generation we love,” he said as his wife Amal Alamuddin the miniseries category. “These days you get with the award for best director for Jeffrey Tambor won best actor in a comedy lost and the people we continue to lose to this looked on. “Amal, I couldn’t be more proud to into a lot of trouble for anything you say,” he ‘Boyhood’. series for playing a transgender woman in disease I just want to say we love you, we be your husband.” noted. “So I’m just going to say thank you.” He Amazon’s “Transparent.” He thanked the remember you,” Bomer said. He made light of the Sony hack. “It’s a good was one of the few winners of the night who Hollywood Foreign Press for “putting us on the chance for us to meet face to face and apolo- didn’t take a political stance. — Reuters map and making people aware of our story,” Heartfelt speech gize for the snarky things we said to each oth- Tambor said. “I would like to dedicate my per- John Legend and Common took the stage er,” he said, before ending his speech by talk- formance and this award to the transgender to accept best original song for “Glory” for ing about the worldwide marches in solidarity community,” he said, raising up his trophy. “Selma,” the only win for the Paramount of the 12 people killed in the Charlie Hebdo “Thank you for your courage, thank you for Pictures drama. In a heartfelt speech that ref- terrorist attack. “They didn’t march in protest,” your inspiration, thank you for your patience erenced current events, including the murder Clooney said. “They marched in support of the and thank you for letting us be part of the of two New York City police officers, Common idea we don’t march in fear.” The Golden change.” explained what drew him to the project about Globes, which honors both television and film, In honoring “Transparent,” the first Amazon he 1965 civil rights marches. “I felt this was plays an important role in shaping the Oscar series to win a Golden Globe, for best comedy, bigger than a movie,” Common said. “I am the race. Arquette won best supporting actress for the Hollywood Foreign Press Association unarmed black kid who maybe needed a “Boyhood,” cementing her status as the fron- shined a light on LBGT rights. Producer creator hand, but instead was given a bullet. I am the trunner in the category. “Sorry, I’m the only Jill Soloway dedicated the award to Leelah two fallen police officers fallen in the line of nerd with a piece of paper,” said Arquette, who Eddie Redmayne poses in the press room Alcorn, the transgender teen from Ohio who duty. ‘Selma’ has awoken my humanity.” He thanked her “onscreen family” cast of Ethan with the award for best actor in a motion committed suicide last week because he didn’t added, “Now is the time to change the world. Hawke and Ellar Coltrane, as well as director picture - drama for ‘The Theory of feel accepted. Matt Bomer won best support- ‘Selma’ is now.” Linklater. Everything’. In a night of uncharacteristically few J.K. Simmons won best supporting actor for celebrity winners, George Clooney added a “Whiplash,” for his portrait of a demanding much-needed boost of star power to the music instructor. He said that his co-star Miles Globes when he accepted the Cecil B. DeMille Teller inspired him every day to “scream at his Award. “Ive had a pretty good year myself, and face.” In a surprise that speaks to the Weinstein Maggie Gyllenhaal accepts the award for I’m not just referring to the fabulous reviews of Co.’s strength in awards-season campaigning, best actress in a mini-series or TV movie for Amy Adams beat out favorite Emily Blunt her role in ‘The Honourable Woman’. (“Into the Woods”) by taking home the award for best actress in a musical/comedy for play- ing artist Margaret Keane in Tim Burton’s “Big Eyes.” Adams was recognized in the same cate-

Actress Julianne Moore poses with the award for Best Actress- Motion Picture, Drama for her role in ‘Still Alice’. about his love for his son Sean. “Two things I said I wasn’t going to do, cry and give air quotes,” he said. “Damn.”

Racy monologue The Golden Globes are usually known for more lighthearted hijinks, but this year’s tele- cast took on a more somber tone, as many of the winners reflected on serious news events, from Ferguson and Charlie Hebdo to LGBT rights. Hosts Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, back for the third (and last) time, kicked off the evening with a racy monologue that poked fun of North Korea’s opposition to “The Filmmaker Wes Anderson accepts the Actress Ruth Wilson poses with the award Actor Michael Keaton with the award for Actor Kevin Spacey poses with the award Interview” and the unprecedented hack that award for best motion picture comedy or for Best Actress, TV Series, Drama for her Best Actor - Motion Picture, Comedy or for Best Actor - TV Sereis, Drama for his role brought Sony Pictures to its knees. They also musical for ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel. role in ‘The Affair’. Musical for his role in “Birdman”. in “House of Cards”. lifestyle TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 AWARDS

Sarah Treem, foreground, accepts the award for best TV drama series for “The Affair”. Actor Jeffrey Tambor (third right) and show creator Jill Soloway (third left) pose with the award for Best TV Series, Comedy or Musical for ‘Transparent.’

FULL LIST OF WINNERS

Full List of Winners: Best Motion Picture - Drama Winner: Boyhood Lead Actor in a Motion Picture - Drama Winner: Eddie Redmayne - The Theory of Everything

Lead Actress in a Motion Picture- Drama Winner: Julianne Moore - Still Alice Best Motion Picture - Comedy or Musical Winner: The Grand Budapest Hotel

Lead Actor in a Motion Picture- Comedy or Musical Winner: Michael Keaton - Birdman

Lead Actress - TV Drama Winner: Ruth Wilson - The Affair Director Winner: Richard Linklater - Boyhood

Lead Actor - TV Drama Winner: Kevin Spacey - House of Cards

Best TV Drama Winner: The Affair Actress - TV Miniseries or Movie Winner: Maggie Gyllenhaal - The Honorable Woman

Foreign Film Winner: Leviathan, Russia Lead Actor - TV Comedy Winner: Jeffrey Tambor - Transparent Noah Hawley, third Screenplay from left, accepts the Winner: Alejandro G. Inarritu, Nicolas Giacobone, award for best Alexander Dinelaris, Armando Bo - Birdman mini-series or TV movie Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture for the series ‘Fargo’. Winner: Patricia Arquette - Boyhood

Animated Feature Winner: How to Train Your Dragon 2 Lead Actress in a Motion Picture- Comedy or Musical Winner: Amy Adams - Big Eyes Supporting Actor - Series, Miniseries, or TV movie Winner: Matt Bomer - The Normal Heart Original Song - Motion Picture Winner: Glory - Selma (John Legend, Common)

Original Score - Motion Picture Winner: Johann Johannsson - The Theory of Everything Best TV Comedy or Musical Winner: Transparent

Lead Actress - TV Comedy or Musical Winner: Gina Rodriguez - Jane the Virgin Actor - TV Miniseries or Movie Winner: Billy Bob Thornton - Fargo Alexander Rodnyansky, left, and Andrey Zvyagintsev Jeffrey Tambor accepts the award for Actress Gina Rodriguez (right), winner of Best Actress in a TV Series, TV Miniseries or Movie pose in the press room with the award for best foreign best actor in a TV series, comedy or Musical or Comedy for ‘Jane the Virgin,’ and sister Ivelisse Rodriguez Winner: Fargo film for ‘Leviathan’. musical for his role in ‘Transparent’. pose in the press room. Supporting Actress - Series, Miniseries, or TV movie Winner: Joanne Froggatt - Downton Abbey

Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture Winner: J.K. Simmons - Whiplash

Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, winner of the Amy Adams poses in the press room award for best screenplay - motion picture with the award for best actress in a for “Birdman”. motion picture - musical or comedy for ‘Big Eyes’. John Legend, left, and Common pose in Dean DeBlois, left, and Bonnie Arnold, the press room with the award for best winners of the award for best animated original song ‘Glory’ in a film for ‘Selma’. feature film for ‘How to Train Your Dragon 2’. Actress Joanne Froggatt holds the award for Best Supporting Actress - Series/Mini-Series/TV Movie ‘Downtown Abbey’.

Matt Bomer accepts the award for Warren Littlefield, from left, John Cameron, Noah Hawley best supporting actor in a series, Johann Johannsson accepts the award for and Geyer Kosinski pose in the press room with the award mini-series or TV movie for his role best original score for “The Theory of Writers Alejandro Gonz?lez In?rritu (second right), Nicol?s Giacobone, Armando Bo for best miniseries or television film for ‘Fargo’. in ‘The Normal Heart’. Everything”. and Alexander Dinelaris pose with the award for Best Screenplay - Motion Picture. ‘Boyhood,’ ‘Grand Budapest Hotel’ top Golden Globe Awards

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2015 39

With humor and humility, Clooney accepts lifetime Golden Globe

hen actor-director George Clooney accepted his lifetime award at Sunday’s WGolden Globes awards, he used his acceptance speech to both put the value of awards in perspective and voice his support for the victims of the deadly attack on French news- paper Charlie Hebdo. “Today is an extraordinary day,” Clooney said as he accepted his Cecil B. DeMille award recognizing his work as actor, film- maker and activist. “Millions marched not only in Paris but all around the world, and there were Christians and Jews and Muslims, leaders of countries all over George Clooney, left, and Amal Clooney arrive at the the world, they didn’t march in protest, they 72nd annual Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly marched in support of the idea that we will not Hilton Hotel on Sunday, Jan 11, 2015, in Beverly walk in fear. Je suis Charlie.” Clooney, 53, who Hills, Calif. — AP /AFP photos wore a “Je Suis Charlie” lapel pin, demonstrated self-deprecation in his acceptance speech, pok- ing fun at himself for having lost more Globes than won. “If you’re in this room, you’ve caught the brass Six lessons ring, you get to do what you’ve always dreamed to do and be celebrated, and that ain’t losing,” he from the said. Clooney, who has starred in films including “Oceans Eleven,” “Syriana” and “The Descendants,” Golden Globes paid tribute to late stars Lauren Bacall and Robin Williams, saying “I have no idea what hardware he Golden Globes winners won’t influence Robin Williams took home but I sure remember Oscar nominations, since the ballots are ‘Carpe diem.’” Talready in. Still, Sunday’s ceremonies offered He also quipped about the backbiting emails some interesting insights into Oscar possibilities that leaked when Sony Pictures was hacked, and into the state of this year’s awards race. encouraging everyone to make amends, and the 1 The big obvious winners Sunday evening unfavorable reviews for his 2014 film, were “Leviathan,” “Grand Budapest Hotel,” Michael “Monuments Men,” joking: “I’ll get you back.” All Keaton, Richard Linklater and Eddie Redmayne. eyes were on the actor and his new wife Amal as The reaction of the 1,200 people in the Golden they made their red carpet debut as a married Globes audience is a bigger Oscar clue than the couple on Sunday. “It’s a humbling thing when Hollywood Foreign Press Assn. results. The HFPA you find someone to love, and even better when has 80-plus voters and none is a member of the you’ve been waiting your whole life,” a choked-up Academy, so their choices don’t necessarily Clooney said on stage to his wife. “Amal, whatev- reflect AMPAS. However, virtually everyone at the er alchemy it is that brought us together, I could- BevHilton Sunday was an industry member and n’t be more proud to be your husband.” In this image released by NBC, Tiny Fey, from left, Margaret Cho and Amy Poehler speak at the their reactions showed widespread enthusiasm Earlier in the night, stars such as Jared Leto, 72nd Annual Golden Globe Awards. for those films and individuals. Helen Mirren, Joshua Jackson and Diane Kruger 2. The other big winners included “The also voiced support for the Charlie Hebdo vic- Wedding Ringer,” “Kingsman: The Secret Service” tims, while Theo Kingma, president of Golden and “Tomorrowland.” Because the Globes are Globes organizers the Hollywood Foreign Press George Clooney poses with the telecast around the world, the ceremony is a Association, made a poignant speech on stage. Cecil B. DeMille Award. great opportunity to plug current or upcoming “As international journalists we also understand films, via the nominations-and presenters. There the importance of freedom of artistic expression. were nice mentions for those films via presenters Together we will stand united against anyone Kevin Hart and Colin Firth and footage from who would repress free speech anywhere, from “Tomorrowland” in the George Clooney mon- North Korea to Paris,” he said. — Reuters tage. 3. Sunday winners shouldn’t feel over-confi- dent. Last year, Alex Ebert won for music score for “All is Lost,” but wasn’t even nominated for an Academy Award. 4. The actor, picture and director races are still up for grabs. Michael Keaton and Eddie Redmayne scored, but nothing is certain: There were at least five other contenders who could still land Oscar bids or even wins. However, Patricia Arquette, Julianne Moore and J.K. Simmons seem unstoppable. Their Globe wins follow multiple prizes from critics, and it’s always good to have a reputation as a winner. As a bonus, all gave good acceptance speeches: hum- ble, sincere, thoughtful. That’s always reassuring. 5. “Birdman” is looking good. A lot of recent awards talk has centered on the stalwart “Boyhood,” plus newer challengers like “Selma,” “American Sniper” and even “Nightcrawler.” But Presenter Oprah Winfrey the screenplay win was a reminder that it’s more speaks on stage. than a model of technical artistry and great per- formances. And one of the film’s themes is, “Even if you’re out of work for a long time, you still have In this image released by NBC, talent and value as a human.” That concept hits Co-hosts Tiny Fey, left, and Amy Poehler introduce Oprah presenter Meryl Streep speaks home to everyone in the industry. Winfrey. on stage. 6. Despite all this handicapping, don’t read too much Oscar-ness into Sunday’s awards. The Globes have an erratic track record of predict- ing Academy results: Only four Globe best pic- ture winners in the last 10 years also went on to Oscar wins. On the other hand, the vast majori- ty of last year’s GG winners also won an Oscar- but even then, none was an off-the-wall or star- tling choice: Alfonso Cuaron, Matthew McConaughey, Cate Blanchett, Jared Leto, “Frozen,” et al. In an unpredictable year, like 2014, a lot of things can happen in the next six weeks. It’s been said before, and will be said again: The Globes are fun. Twenty years ago, when they returned to network television, the Globes touted themselves as Oscar omens. But they’ve taken on their own identity and some people love to complain about the long day, but people actually have a good time. And there were surprises, like the win for “How to Train Your Dragon 2” that kept up suspense. Plus, the references to world events from HFPA prez Theo Kingma, Jared Leto and George Model Cara Delevingne and Clooney were brief and appropriate.— Reuters Jared Leto presents an award on stage. singer/actress Selena Gomez Actors Joshua Jackson and Diane Kruger