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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 JAMADA ALTHANI 19, 1436 AH www.kuwaittimes.net Minister vows Kenyans march FedEx to buy TNT Duke top to support for national for $4.8bn to Wisconsin ambitions of security after expand Europe 68-63 for talented4 youth massacre10 deliveries21 national20 title Kuwait fund to lend Egypt Min 21º Max 34º $1.5bn, help rebuild Gaza High Tide 02:15 & 14:00 Low Tide Arab cooperation crucial for development: FM 08:05 & 20:50 40 PAGES NO: 16484 150 FILS KUWAIT: The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development plans to lend Egypt $1.5 billion over the next MoI database down after blaze five years, extending $300 million each year, the fund’s director-general Abdulwahab Al-Bader told Reuters yester- day. He did not give details of the loans. The fund is the Kuwaiti government’s agency for aiding developing coun- tries in areas such as agriculture, transport and energy. Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have provided billions of dollars of aid to Egypt in the past two years to support its economy and help it maintain political stability. KFAED will also administer a $200 million grant offered by Kuwait to the Reconstruction Program of the Southern Provinces in Palestine (the Gaza Strip). Bader and Palestinian Prime Minister’s Advisor for Arab and Islamic Funds affairs Jawad Naji Hirzallah yesterday signed an agreement for the utilization of the Kuwaiti grant, the fund said in a press state- ment. The program aims at alle- viating the impact of the most recent Israeli aggression on Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Gaza through reconstruction of destroyed housing units and rehabilitation of affected infrastructure, roads and water and sanitation networks, it added. It also includes reconstruction of economic activities’ infrastructure in the building, contract- ing, and agriculture sectors. KUWAIT: (Left) Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Mohammad Al-Khaled Al-Sabah, accompanied by Undersecretary Suleiman Al-Fahd, The program, expected to be completed over three inspects damage at the Information Systems Directorate after a fire broke out in a room of the building the previous night (right). — KUNA years, includes consultancy services. According to the state- ment, KFAED is a longstanding development partner of By Hanan Al-Saadoun tions and security information department said in a announced a citizen arriving from Iraq was arrested with Palestine, and previously supported the peace process in statement that the fire did not cause any human casual- 108.450 kg of hashish and 100,000 psychotropic pills at the Middle East in the year 2000 through a grant totaling KUWAIT: A fire broke out at the Information Systems ties, and no information was lost. Two people suffered the Abdaly border. The director general of the customs $25 million, fully disbursed. It is also managing three Directorate of the Interior Ministry early yesterday, knock- from smoke inhalation. The main computer and data- directorate Khalid Al-Saif said Kuwait was under a vicious Kuwaiti grants totaling $315 million, out of which $155 mil- ing out servers and causing disruption at border cross- base systems of the interior ministry were not affected, attack from drug dealers and that his men were fully vigi- lion that was disbursed on March 29, 2015. In addition, the ings. Hundreds of travelers were stuck, forcing officers to but were shut down as a precaution, the statement said. lant to foil their attempts at various land, marine and air fund represents Kuwait in the committees responsible for register information manually. The ministry’s public rela- Separately, the customs department yesterday border exits. managing the Aqsa and Holy Jerusalem Funds established Continued on Page 13 News Assembly passes military service law in brief

IMF endorses Islamic Govt gets nod to build power stations finance as less risky By B Izzak WASHINGTON: The International Monetary Fund has endorsed the principles of Islamic finance, saying it KUWAIT: The National Assembly yes- could prove safer than conventional finance, but the Saudi troops terday passed a law requiring Kuwaiti multilateral lender warned Islamic bankers that they men when they reach the age of 18 to must tighten rules and follow them more consistently. A undergo compulsory military service track Houthi report released by the IMF this week showed the for one year and remain members of a lender’s growing interest in Islamic banking, which is reserve army until the age of 45. The movements expanding in much of the world. The IMF’s report noted law, approved by 41 MPs and opposed that because Islamic banking forbids pure monetary JIZAN, Saudi Arabia: Far from war-damaged Sanaa by eight, will be applied after two speculation and stresses that deals should be based on and Aden, Lieutenant Colonel Hamed Al-Ahmari years and stipulates a two-year jail real economic activity, it could pose less risk than con- stood atop a Saudi border post and gestured across a term for those who prevent or evade ventional banking to the stability of financial systems. valley to a Yemeni mountainside held by the Houthi draft. This will be the first time Kuwait IMF plans a global conference on the subject in militia, whose positions the kingdom’s jets have reintroduces military service after November alongside Kuwaiti authorities. (See Page 22) bombarded for 12 days. “We are on the frontline,” said stopping it for more than 20 years. Ahmari, wearing the grey camouflage fatigues of the The law states that the military serv- Border Guards, a force whose uniform has been aug- ice applies to all Kuwaiti males after Power outages affect mented since the air strikes started on March 26 with reaching the age of 18, but men who White House, Capitol a flak jacket and helmet. WASHINGTON: Widespread power outages in the will be 35 when the law is enacted will What once may have been a debatable point - US capital and its suburbs yesterday cut electricity be exempt. The 12-month period Yemen’s messy war has many frontlines - has gained to a number of government buildings, including the includes both training and military KUWAIT: (From left) Oil Minister Ali Al-Omair, Speaker Marzouq Al- credibility as the war has ground on: Three Saudi bor- White House and State Department, and at several service in Kuwait army units. Ghanem and MP Roudhan Al-Roudhan attend a parliament session at der guards have been killed along the frontier in that of the Smithsonian museums. The State Continued on Page 13 the National Assembly yesterday. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat period, as the kingdom’s air strikes and artillery fire Department’s daily news briefing was suspended targeted Houthi positions near its territory, as well as after power was lost. A department announcement forces elsewhere in Yemen. Concerns about the bor- said State and other nearby buildings were affected der with Yemen were central to the kingdom’s cam- because electricity feeders were down. The US Erdogan in Iran amid paign to stop the Houthis controlling its southern Capitol complex was operating using a backup gen- neighbor, something Riyadh fears would strengthen erator, a congressional aide said. A US official said its main foe, Iran, and heighten security risks. the White House was without power for a few min- tensions over Yemen Saudi Arabia believes the Houthis, who follow the utes. That daily press briefing was delayed because Zaydi Shiite sect, will incite sectarian violence as they of the outage. Power also went out as media tycoon TEHRAN: Turkey and Iran agree on the need for a politi- in Yemen, Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani said during a advance into Sunni areas, strengthening support for Oprah Winfrey was speaking at a US Postal Service cal solution to end Yemen’s war, which has raised ten- joint press conference broadcast by state television. Yemen’s Al-Qaeda wing, which last July raided a ceremony marking the issuance of a stamp honor- sions between them, Iran’s president said yesterday Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made no Saudi border town, killing 12. The mountaintop Al- ing poet Maya Angelou. after talks with his visiting Turkish counterpart. “We remarks about Yemen, but he talked at length about Mushareq post has not been attacked since the talked about Iraq, Syria, Palestine... We had a long dis- bilateral relations with Iran. strikes began, Ahmari said, but while it is out of US speeds up arms to cussion about Yemen. We both think war and blood- Iran, which supports the Houthi rebels in Yemen, has range of the light assault rifles most common in Saudi-led coalition shed must stop in this area immediately and a complete condemned air strikes by an Arab coalition led by Saudi Yemen, it could be hit by more serious weapons that RIYADH: The United States is speeding up arms supplies ceasefire must be established and the strikes must stop” Arabia and supported by Turkey. Rouhani said he hoped the Houthis possess. All appeared quiet on Monday, to a Saudi-led coalition battling Houthi fighters in Yemen, the two countries, “with the help of other countries in but distant artillery fire had sounded throughout who are supported by Iran, Deputy Secretary of State the region” would contribute to “peace, stability, a Sunday night, said a Reuters photographer staying Antony Blinken said yesterday. Speaking to reporters on a broader government and dialogue” between Yemenis. near the frontier. visit to Riyadh, Blinken called for all political parties to com- “We agree on the fact that instability, insecurity and war Saudi Arabia has strongly reinforced its southern mit to what he called a consensus political solution, and must cease throughout the region,” he said. border with army units, and the constant southwards said Washington was stepping up intelligence sharing with Erdogan said “the region is burning in a fire”, and movement of armor described by residents of border the anti-Houthi alliance. “Saudi Arabia is sending a strong called for a comprehensive regional approach to end provinces has raised rumors it might conduct a large message to the Houthis and their allies that they cannot the crises. “We discussed Iraq, 100,000 people were ground operation A few dozen military vehicles, overrun Yemen by force,” he said. “As part of that effort, we killed there ... So far, more than 300,000 were killed in painted in drab, including ambulances with the Red have expedited weapons deliveries, we have increased our Syria. All were Muslim. We do not know who is killing Crescent symbol stencilled on their sides, were intelligence sharing, and we have established a joint coor- who,” Erdogan said. “We have to get united and block parked in an army camp just behind the border. To dination planning cell in the Saudi operation centre.” At the the killing and bloodshed. We have to bring those who the side, some artillery pieces pointed towards Pentagon in Washington, spokesman Colonel Steve Warren TEHRAN: Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali are fighting each other together and we can reach a Yemen. said the United States was looking to deliver munitions to Khamenei (right) meets Turkish President Recep conclusion.” Continued on Page 13 its allies, including by accelerating pre-existing orders. Tayyip Erdogan yesterday. — AP Continued on Page 13 LOCAL WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 Amir offers condolences over Iraqi cleric’s death

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah sent a cable of condolences yesterday to the family of Iraqi leading cleric and politician Sayed Mohammad Bahr Al- Ulloum, who passed away in Najaf ear- lier yesterday. In his cable, HH the Amir prayed for mercy for the deceased, paying tribute to his high religious sta- tus and remarkable national stances serving his homeland and the issues of the Islamic nation. HH the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al- Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah also sent His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah similar cables to the Bahr Al-Ulloum Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah family. —KUNA KUWAIT: Acting Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah and Senegalese Ambassador Abdou Lahad Mbacke cut the ceremonial cake. (Right) Sheikh Ali Al-Jaber Al-Sabah is welcomed to the event. — Photos by Joseph Shagra Ooredoo signs deal to activate maps service Foreign Minister praises

KUWAIT: Ooredoo Kuwait signed a employees serve customers better, and memorandum of understanding with the maps will be updated daily. The Kuwait-Senegalese ties the Public Authority for Civil signing took place at PACI headquarters Information (PACI) to activate the elec- in the presence of Ooredoo Kuwait tronic maps service as part of the sys- General Manager and CEO Mohammad KUWAIT: Acting Prime Minister and Foreign praised the Senegal’s ‘admirable support’ of resulted in signing two agreements on Youth and tems used by the company. The activa- Abdullah Al-Thani and PACI Director Minister Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah Kuwait during the 1990-91 Iraqi occupation of Sport, and technical and cultural cooperation. tion of the maps will help company General Musa’ed Al-As’ousi. commended the ‘distinguished relations’ between Kuwait, and its contribution to the war of liberat- Kuwait is keen on further cementing Arab-African Kuwait and Senegal. Speaking to reporters ing Kuwait. He said his recent visit to Dakar lead- partnership, said Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled. He Monday on sidelines of a Senegalese Embassy ing Kuwait’s delegation to a joint committee recalled that Kuwait hosted the Arab-African sum- reception marking the African nation’s meeting, touched upon security and military mit, which was dubbed ‘Partners in Development Independence Day, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled, cooperation among other domains. The visit also and Investment.’ —KUNA Palestinian Industries Fair opens today

KUWAIT: The second Palestinian Federation of Palestinian Chambers of Industries Fair in the State of Kuwait Commerce, Industry and Agriculture launches today at the Kuwait (FPCCIA) and the Kuwait Chamber of International Fairground in Mishref, fea- Commerce and Industry (KCCI) will also turing participation of 82 companies and be held to discuss ways of Kuwaiti invest- factories in Palestine. The large number of ments in Palestine, the Ambassador participants makes the fair one of the added. The first fair, held last year and most successful Palestinian industries fairs was considered the most successful to be to be held outside the State of Palestine in held outside the State of Palestine in the the history of Palestinian fairs, said Rami history of Palestinian fairs, helped Tahboub, the Ambassador of the State of improve trade exchange between Kuwait Palestine to Kuwait. and Palestine, Tahboub said. He added Several Palestinian businessmen par- that the second fair is expected to feature ticipating in the four-day fair are set to similar improvement especially in trade KUWAIT: Ooredoo Kuwait General Manager and CEO Mohammad Abdullah Al-Thani hold meetings with their Kuwaiti counter- exchange “after mutual trust has been and PACI Director General Musa’ed Al-As’ousi shake hands after signing the memo- parts, Tahboub said in a press statement. established between the private sectors randum. An official meeting between the in both Palestine and Kuwait.” WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 LOCAL

Data of 100,000 workers Capital increase for Arab needs review: Dousary food sufficiency: Minister By A Saleh indicated, adding that consumers would get the choice to purchase prepaid pow- KUWAIT: Manpower Public Authority’s er consumption cards for KD 5, 10 and KCCI urges using reserve to curb oil prices decline Director Jamal Al-Dousary revealed that 20. He also noted that a KD 5 card would automating the authority’s provide enough power for a KUWAIT: Increasing the capital of starting this year and through the database showed differences two bedroom apartment for The Arab Authority for Agricultural year before, the Authority has been in the input data of over 30-45 days. Investment and Development studying numerous new projects 100,000 expatriate workers, (AAAID) by 50 percent augments its aimed at increasing the production and IT staffers are currently Jordan bars Kuwaiti Islamist efficacy in providing food staples to of staple foods and supporting the updating the database. Jordan yesterday banned the Arab populace and acquiring work of farmers with small and Kuwaiti Islamist preacher Dr lucrative returns on its diversified medium farming operations, who MEW eyes ‘smart power gauges’ Tareq Suwaidan from entering investments, a Kuwaiti official said make up 80 percent of food produc- The Ministry of Electricity Jordan, and he was forced to yesterday. ers in the Arab world. He added that and Water has offered a ten- return to Kuwait on the same Jamal Al-Dousary This increase will help the the board of trustees of the der for public bidding flight he had taken to Amman. Authority diversify and improve its Authority, in its zeal to expand the amongst global smart power Suwaidan arrived in Amman agricultural production and broaden scope of its activities in 2015, has gauge manufacturers after the ministry to deliver a lecture on human resource its scope of investments at a time allocated $4 million to support these noticed how successful these gauges development, but found out that he had when food security has become an activities. are, Assistant Undersecretary for been blacklisted for affiliation with the ongoing concern in Arab societies, Planning and Training Dr Mesh’an Al- Muslim Brotherhood and cooperating Kuwait’s Minister of Finance Anas Al- Oil prices Otaibi said. The smart gauge project with it in a way that was deemed harm- Saleh said on the sideline of a share- In other news, President of would be applied within two years, he ful to Jordanian interests. holders meeting. Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Though the authority has striven Industry (KCCI) Ali Al-Ghanim said to narrow the gap between Arab that Kuwait’s national economy countries with food acquisition con- could overcome oil prices’ decline by KUWAIT: Kuwaiti Finance Minister Anas Al-Saleh speaks to the press Drunk driver caught straints and those more fortunate in making good use of financial during a meeting of Arab Financial Institutions yesterday. that regard, it was incumbent on reserves coupled with full-fledged —Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat By Meshaal Al-Enezi recently filed a complaint with Sabah Al- these countries to double their reforms. The decline in oil revenues Salem police against another citizen liv- efforts at food sufficiency, he said. does not require rapid spending demanding reforms and more private governance of companies listed in KUWAIT: A Kuwaiti man was arrested ing in the same building, accusing him of The food bill for Arab countries has cuts but to divert expenditures sector role whenever oil prices col- stock market and the facilitation of after a wild chase when he drove through using the apartment for indecent prac- been spiking incrementally year after towards “ambitious development lapse, but when these prices recover, measures at border crossings. a checkpoint. He was chased by eight tices although the whole building is only year, which at this time has reached a investment,” Ghanim said in a the reform files are shelved,” he said. KCCI revenues last year amount- patrols that finally forced him to stop, said for families. whopping $35 billion, he added. speech at a meeting of the KCCI’s Ghanim said Kuwait’s economic ed to 4.5 million Kuwaiti Dinars ($15 security sources, noting that the man was The citizen added that on objecting to Mohammad Al-Mazrouei, the general authority. future is linked with success of pri- million) with spending at KD 4.3 mil- heavily drunk and had 12 bottles of such practices and talking to their neigh- authority’s President, said mean- Noting that KCCI members vate sector, and this success is relat- lion ($14.3 million). Ghanim called whiskey in his vehicle. bor, he insulted them and waved a knife while that the organization’s rev- exceeded 35,000 in 2014, Ghanim ed to reforming of the government for boosting private sector’s role as a in their faces, threatening to kill them. A enues for 2014 topped $46.3 million called for stopping subsidies for sector. He said KCCI contributed to leader of the development in Indecent practices case was filed and further investigations with a net profit of $26.6 million, those who did not need them but many laws in 2014 like the creation Kuwait, and the diversification of A 45-year-old citizen and his son are in progress. noting that shareholders equity by without undermining living condi- of suitable environment for private production in addition to invest- the end of December, 2014 reached tions and income of limited-income sector, the industrial strategy, the ment in education and giant infra- Second optical fibers $672.6 million. He further said that citizens. “Voices became high Capital Markets Authority (CMA), structure projects. project contract signed Zain launches high-impact

KUWAIT: A contract has been signed for be replaced with optical fibers, Kandari carrying out the second stage of the opti- noted. Implementation will give priority to campaign against child abuse cal fibers network project, areas with plenty of subscribers, Minister of State for Municipal and that do not yet enjoy phone Affairs and Minister of services, in accordance with cer- Lending a voice to the voiceless Communications Essa Al- tain technical criteria. Kandari said. The deal covers Kandari emphasized the KUWAIT: Zain Group, a leading innovator in mobile interactions with stakeholders. Utilizing custom sound recognition technology, visi- designs, supplies, installment momentousness of the project telecom in eight markets across the Middle East and tors to the campaign website can sign the petition by and operating, as well as main- which is part of the ministry’s Africa, announces the commencement of its multi- Raising awareness verbally recording their name, instead of the usual tenance work, the Minister plan to upgrade various phone faceted media campaign to raise awareness about the Commenting on the commencement of Zain’s lat- written or digital signature. Find out more at added in a press statement yes- and internet services nation- ills of child abuse and shed light on this often taboo, est child protection campaign, Zain Group CEO, Scott www.freeourvoices.org. terday. wide. Meanwhile, the ministry is yet tragic topic. Zain is looking to highlight this global Gegenheimer commented, “Zain is committed to the Highlighting these issues in this region is a brave phenomenon and support children from the region, safety and well-being of the communities it serves. In move by Zain given the sensitivity of the subject mat- This project, comprised in Minister Essa Al- working on a tender document especially in those areas ravaged with conflict, to grow an era where technology and telecommunications ter, and the company remains undeterred in its deter- the state development plan, will Kandari as a reference to select a world cover around 66,000 plots of consultancy house to prepare free from abuse so that they can achieve their full have the potential to significantly impact societies mination to shed light on the plight of abused chil- land in 33 residential areas, nine studies for the network’s third potential and actively contribute to and enjoy our across the world, Zain recognizes the need to raise dren, and to help in the eradication of this destructive of which using the old cooper networks, to stage, the minister said.— KUNA wonderful world. awareness so that the most vulnerable segments of occurrence. Zain is determined to offer a voice for those who society across the region are protected from abuse have previously been voiceless, and its hard-hitting and exploitation.” agricultural child abuse campaign strongly showcases this. This latest campaign reaffirms Zain’s long standing Crime cooperation Starting on 6 April, 2015, Zain introduced a regional approach to this critical social issue as the company is Report television and social media campaign supported by already actively involved in a child abuse-related initia- KUWAIT: Kuwait’s Public print adverts targeting verbal, physical and sexual tive with the GSMA; dating back to February 2011 Authority for Agricultural abuse without depicting it visually. when Zain joined the GSMA Mobile Alliance against Affairs and Fish Resources Three different themed videos have been pro- Child Sexual Abuse Content campaign that aimed to Affairs (PAAAFR) and a visit- duced that will be shown on regional TV and YouTube ensure that individuals or organizations wishing to ing Palestinian agricultural (www.youtube.com/zain). A series of stark, black and use, or profit from child sexual abuse content using delegation discussed yester- white posters will also appear in print adverts and Zain the mobile environment, are prevented from doing so. social media channels (www.facebook.com/zain; Further, in November 2014, Zain partnered with day the means of reactivat- www.twitter.com/zain; www.instagram.com/zain- the GSMA’s agreement with Child Helpline ing bilateral agricultural group), depicting stricken young children with accom- International (CHI) to protect young people and safe- cooperation. panying text giving an insight into their plight, such as guard their right to be heard. The GSMA and CHI joint- Following her meeting “Fadi was 11 months old when he said his first word. ly signed a Memorandum of Understanding that with the delegation, PAAAFR Fadi is now 8 and not saying much at all.”Another established a roadmap for promoting child help lines Chairperson and Director- example of the hard hitting supporting text is one across the globe. The roadmap included measures to General Nabila Al-Khalil said advert that reads, “Abuse can damage a childhood. strengthen relationships between national mobile that the meeting focused on Help them open up”. operators and their in-country help lines and foster how to put in place a previ- This bold communication makes Zain one of the collaboration on issues such as a safer Internet for chil- ous memorandum of under- first companies in the region to seriously address the dren. Similarly to Zain’s outlook to offer protection to issue of child abuse and the need for child protection vulnerable sectors of society, last year CHI also standing (MoU) aiming at so directly, and falls in line with the company’s pio- launched the ‘Free Our Voices’ campaign to generate promoting agricultural coop- neering approach in all aspects of its business and public support for child help lines internationally. eration. —KUNA

Alcohol, cocaine smuggling foiled

By Hanan Al-Saadoun

KUWAIT: Airport customs officers arrested a Kuwaiti man for attempting to smuggle alcohol and cocaine into the country. The man was sent to the Drug Control General Directorate (DCGD) for further action. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 LOCAL

KUWAIT: (From left) Kuwait Times’ Deputy General Manager Adnan Saad, judge panelist Ameera Ashkanani, Lebanese artist Aline Khabbaz, Ali Haidar from Smart.Spot, Chevron’s Hadi Al-Qahtani, Kuwait Times’ Editor-in-Chief Abd Al-Rahman Al-Alyan, Minister of Information and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Sheikh Salman Al-Hmoud Al-Sabah, Zain’s Waleed Al-Kashti, judge panelist Abdul Kareem Al- Enezy, judge panelist Abdulaziz Arty and judge panelist Svitlana Arndt. —Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat and Joseph Shagra Minister assures support for young talents, skills to achieve ambitions ‘Kuwait Green and Beautiful’ competition winners honored

By Ben Garcia year, from various public and private schools in ment within the surroundings of their home, school for the most outstanding amongst the 75 winning participant might be. Please urge students to be more Kuwait. In his speech, Saad mentioned the over- and society. “When creativity is mixed with innocence paintings,” he said. honest and credible and have them value self- KUWAIT: The government of Kuwait is paying special whelming support of their sponsors and schools who and feelings of expression, students create fantastic Enezy advised that teachers supervising the partic- achieved satisfaction by doing 100 percent of their attention to young people and providing a means to participated in the 10th art competition. “I thank the portraits. Students proved their skills in innovation ipants’ works must be fully aware of the competition’s entries while you only provide them with guidance develop the skills to help them achieve their ambi- participating establishments for their efforts and and creativity with their artistic touches and their rules and conditions starting with its three-word mot- and help them think of the best topics and techniques tions, Information Minister and Minister for Youth sponsorship of the prize distribution of the students’ taste of the values of beauty and expressions with to ‘Kuwait Beautiful and Green’, to realize how to pro- to be used,” he added. Affairs Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem Al-Humoud Al- art contest under the slogan “Kuwait Green and colors in an atmosphere that brings happiness and tect the environment which is very significant to make Sabah said. Beautiful”. We are celebrating the tenth year of this comfort,” he said. participants familiar with what they are going to paint. Advancing skills Speaking to the local media during an awards cer- contest which is conducted in cooperation with Saudi “Miscommunication of such information is negatively Saudi Arabia Chevron Vice President for emony to honor students who participated in Kuwait Arabian Chevron and Zain Communications and host- Nature’s beauty reflected in the paintings. So, a teacher has a signifi- Administration Hadi Al-Qatani vowed to continue its Times’ “Kuwait Green and Beautiful” art competition ed by Gulf University this year,” he said. Paintings excelled in selecting the colors of the sky, cant role in guiding students to use their own artistic support in the advancement of education, health and on Monday at the Gulf University for Science and “The contest aims at developing and enriching clouds, sea, land and trees and reflected on the beauty knowledge and skills as well as the proper techniques,” environment and safety. “We support programs that Technology (GUST), he said he is deeply touched and students’ creative skills and developing their personal- of the drawings, which are a transparent and true he said. advance skills and creativity of young people of today. happy seeing the fresh talent and works displayed. ities, which also generates new creative energy expression of the children’s vision of nature. “Each stu- We invest to improve access to education which is “The Ministry of State for Youth Affairs wants to over- through boosting awareness and visual skills, knowl- dent was able to express and concentrate on art and Kuwait’s environment very important in fostering livelihood and long-term come anything that impedes the talents of young edge of color and a new valuable vision that reflects drawing and express their skills their own way,” he He also said that participants have to read the development. We believe that education is a tool to people in all areas. I am very happy to see the stu- the extent of students’ skills in creativity and innova- said. Saad thanked Chevron and Zain who believed in instructions that revolve around the competition’s slo- make progress in environmental issues,” he said. “We dents’ talent in the environmental drawing competi- tion. It also develops the students’ feelings and sup- these principles and ideas that benefits the society gan - that is, Kuwait’s environment and landmarks. are greatly honored to revive our commitment to this tion. Congratulations to Kuwait Times, the organizer, ports values of self discipline and taste. It also provides and also thanked GUST for providing a welcoming “The paintings must include an artistic view of a land- program and we are happy that we have being a part for such an important event, and to all the sponsors,” a rich field for students to express their energy venue for the competition. He also thanked the mark of Kuwait that should be joyfully, brightly and of this from 1998. Our operational experience teaches he said. through drawing and acquaint them with the beauti- esteemed schools that walked along with them in the aesthetically portrayed because a lack of any of these us that raising awareness is one of the most critical The event was sponsored by Chevron, Zain ful values of beautifying the environment and society,” past ten years, making their participation a great suc- three elements would disqualify the entry. We have steps in delivering world-class programs, the talent Telecom and GUST, aimed at boosting environmental he added. cess. received paintings including non-Kuwaiti landmarks,” and creativity shown by the young artists who made public awareness and developing a sense of caring Addressing on behalf of the jury, Abdul Kareem Al- he added. He pointed out that that ‘Beautiful and the judge’s decisions very difficult. But we are happy for environmental issues in Kuwait. The event was Artistic message Enezy, member of the jury said this year’s competition Green’ in the motto meant that the painting has to to see the participation of so many students from vari- graced by Ameera Ashkanani, formative artist and art Saad noted that Kuwait Times’ effort is out of con- was divided into six categories, namely: 6-8 years old, include green colors to reflect nature and landscapes ous schools. Their support reflects the bright future education supervisor at the Ministry of Education cern over the environment. “The important message 9-11 years old, 12-14 years old, 15-17 years old, best which portrays optimism and joy rather than dull and Kuwait has before it,” he mentioned. together with Kuwait Times Editor-in-Chief Abd Al- is to preserve and protect the environment and send among the best and special needs. “I’m honored to be dark ones that reflect pessimism, which is unlike the Waleed Al-Khasti, Public Relations Manager at Zain Rahman Al-Alyan. A number of diplomats also an artistic message to the society. This activity lies in a member of the jury of the outstanding ‘Kuwait beautiful and healthy Kuwaiti environment, be it Telecom Company, expressed happiness on its spon- attended the event. linking students with their environment and the Beautiful and Green’ painting competition that Kuwait marine or desert-related. sorship. “This is our second year of sponsoring the importance of protecting it,” he asserted. Saad also Times has been organizing for the past ten years. This Enezy also warned some teachers, parents or oth- Kuwait Green and Beautiful art competition. Kuwait 11,800 entries pointed out that such events release the energy of year we had 11,800 participants from 92 schools. In ers who have blatantly interfered in the paintings or Times is helping students all over Kuwait develop their According to Kuwait Times Deputy General students’ artistic skills and boosts self-confidence, so celebration of the tenth anniversary, the organizers even made them on behalf of the student. “We know talent, creativity and environmental awareness, this is Manager Adnan Saad, this year’s competition received they can contribute to activating the artistic aspect decided to increase the number of winners from ten that each age category has special skills and potentials part of our social responsibility to make our world 11,800 entries, compared to about 10,000 entries last and develop the human touch towards the environ- to fifteen in each category in addition to a new award taking into consideration how talented and gifted a more beautiful,” he said.

Kuwait Times’ Editor-in-Chief Abd Al-Rahman Al-Alyan (right) and Minister Sheikh Salman Al-Sabah are seen in (From left) Hadi Al-Qahtani, Abd Al-Rahman Al-Alyan, Minister Sheikh Salman Al-Sabah, Waleed Al-Kashti and the audience during the ceremony. Adnan Saad are pictured after the minister was honored.

Kuwait Times’ Editor-in-Chief Abd Al-Rahman Al-Alyan Kuwait Times’ Editor-in-Chief Abd Al-Rahman Al-Alyan Minister Sheikh Salman Al-Sabah greets young musi- Minister Sheikh Salman Al-Sabah is seen while touring and Minister Sheikh Salman Al-Sabah award Chevron’s and Minister Sheikh Salman Al-Sabah award Zain’s cian Lee, as Kuwait Times’ Editor-in-Chief Abd Al- an exhibition of the participating art works. Hadi Al-Qahtani. Waleed Al-Kashti. Rahman Al-Alyan looks on.

(From left) Abdulaziz Arty, Abdul Kareem Al-Enezy, Hadi Al-Qahtani, Kuwait Times’ Editor-in-Chief Abd Al-Rahman Al-Alyan is pictured with Minister Sheikh Salman Al-Sabah (second from right) poses with young Sheikh Salman Al-Sabah, Abd Al-Rahman Al-Alyan, Waleed Al-Kashti, one of the winners as Minister Sheikh Salman Al-Sabah looks on. artist Mohammad Al-Merri (third from right), Merri’s father (third from Adnan Saad and Anwar Al-Hasawi. left), as well as Waleed Al-Kashti (left), Adnan Saad (second from left) and Abd Al-Rahman Al-Alyan LOCAL WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 Top Expo Group opens kuwait digest Importance real estate exhibition of joint work

By Faten Omar

KUWAIT: The Top Expo Group for organ- izing Exhibitions and Conferences By Labeed Abdal opened the 8th Property and Investment Exhibition on Monday at the International Fairground in Mishref. Chairman of the Top Expo Group and organizer of the exhibition Sheikh Malek Al-Sabah said 74 Kuwaiti and foreign [email protected] property companies were participating in the exhibition. The exhibition has attracted a large variety of real estate ater ministers of the 5+5 western companies with products including Mediterranean countries approved a joint land, villas and apartments in more than Wwater strategy during a recent meeting in 250 projects in 15 Gulf, Arab and Algeria. The decision puts forward a joint vision to European countries. handle issues pertaining with water in the member “Perhaps this is the largest number of states of the group, which includes Algeria, Tunisia, companies that has participated in our Morocco, Libya, Mauritania, Spain, Italy, Portugal, exhibitions. We booked more than 3,400 France and Malta. I believe that this important step sq m in the exhibition hall to show a is a precautionary measure in anticipation of any clear indication of the interest shown by water-related crisis. these companies in real estate and The strategy came as a result of comprehensive investment in particular, and the market efforts that focused on exchanging expertise and of Kuwait in general. KUWAIT: Sheikh Malek Al-Sabah (center) inaugurates the exhibition. — Photos by Joseph Shagra information, which reflect its importance for all the We are pleased to organize such exhi- at Green City Real Estate, told Kuwait countries involved. The regional water strategy bitions that provide customers in Kuwait Times that this is the fourth year of par- allows the development of a joint vision with opportunities for investment in a variety ticipation for the Egyptian company. “We regards to utilizing water resources through a sus- of countries including Kuwait, UAE, have properties in Egypt, Turkey, Bosnia tainable framework to manage this resource. Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, and Dubai. Green City real estate was The significance of these joint efforts lies in what Egypt, Britain, America, Germany, founded in 2005 in Egypt, and we this sustainable framework can achieve when it Bulgaria, Spain, the Czech Republic, opened the third branch of our compa- comes to guaranteeing safe water resources for the Bosnia, Turkey, Malaysia and other coun- ny in Kuwait to cover the needs of future generations, especially at a time in which tries,” Sheikh Malek said. clients in the Gulf market.” countries worldwide face challenges in maintaining Kuwaiti property exhibitions provide stable water resources due to environmental factors Unique opportunities a unique opportunity to meet the needs and others. Chrestin Reda, Sales Consultant at of developers, real estate markets and And since water is essential for life, the 5+5 west- Afaq Future Real Estate, said: “We spe- industry experts, which help them to ern Mediterranean countries realized that working cialize in real estate in Bahrain and have expand their partnerships and discover jointly was necessary to set the foundations to guar- four properties. Two towers are fully the latest trends in the international real antee sustainable water resources for all people in booked, and another two towers are estate market. Exhibitors will present their respective lands. This kind of action shows the under construction and are planned to projects and investment programs to importance of joint work as a way to comprehen- finish within 5 months. We have been Kuwaiti investors and offer tremendous sively secure people’s needs worldwide. participating in this exhibition for two opportunities for companies to identify Furthermore, it sets an example for other countries years now.” their investors and determine future to work together in order to protect their people Nesma Abd El-Aziz, Sales Department prospects in the market. Sheikh Malek Al-Sabah is seen while touring the exhibition. from the risk of suffering from water crises. Air transport services deal DUBAI: UAE’s General Civil Aviation Mohammad Al-Suwaidi, and Chairman movement of goods between the two Authority (GCAA) and Kuwait’s of the Kuwaiti DGCA, Fawaz Abdulaziz countries, it added. Directorate General of Civil Aviation Al-Farah, UAE’s Authority said in a The open skies agreement between (DGCA) yesterday signed an agree- statement. the UAE and Kuwait will further serve ment and memorandum of under- The deal was signed on basis of the two partners and help keep pace standing (MoU) on air transport servic- open skies between the UAE and with expansion being eyed by the UAE es. The agreement and MoU were Kuwait, in order to cope with the national carriers, Suwaidi was quoted signed by GCAA Director Saif growing air and passenger traffic, and as saying. —KUNA

Eng Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Badran during the honoring ceremony. VIVA celebrates Badran’s selection among best 100 CEOs in region

KUWAIT: VIVA, Kuwait’s fastest-growing vision and outstanding leadership as the made the BEST 100 CEOs in the Gulf region. telecom provider, announced that Eng CEO of the fastest-growing telecom operator One person cannot accomplish everything Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Badran made the in Kuwait. These prestigious awards cele- alone. This would not have been possible list of the Best 100 Chief Executive Officers brate the best leaders whose success in their without the devotion, commitment and (CEO) in the Gulf Cooperation Council own companies played an instrumental role loyalty of the VIVA family while performing (GCC) region for 2015. Out of the 700 pub- in the continued growth in the region. their work and facilitating the services licly listed companies on the regional VIVA’s CEO, Eng Salman Bin Abdulaziz offered by VIVA and made it the fastest- stock exchange, he was ranked 87th in the Al-Badran expressed his gratification with growing telecom operator in Kuwait.” annual 100 best influential personality list. this achievement and credited it to the Badran concluded: “We are looking for- The announcement was made during the tremendous efforts made by the company’s ward to our future as one team, reaffirming TOP CEO Awards that was jointly organ- employees and the trust of its clients and our commitment to offering the best cus- ized by INSEAD Business School and shareholders. He stated: “The success of any tomer service, and devoting our wide expe- Trends, one of the leading business maga- CEO depends on having a strong team to rience and knowledge in the local market zines published in Dubai. support him in his work. I am deeply hon- to our clients while building on our leading Badran was recognized for his inspiring ored by this recognition and proud to have capabilities and track record of success.” Sheikha Fraiha chosen Arab investments’ ambassador

CAIRO: The Arab Women Investors Union the environment and heritage. press conference to announce her partici- has chosen Chairperson of Kuwait Society The event will also discuss the Arab- pation in a major gathering to be held in for the Ideal Family (KSIF) Sheikha Fraiha African Trade Bridges initiative for develop- Cairo on April 14-17. She said during the Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as the ment and the UN’s program on the protec- press conference that Arab women, ‘Ambassador of Arab Investments’. tion against the hazards of natural disasters Kuwaiti in particular, have proven worthi- The honoring of Sheikha Fraiha was and their impact on investment projects. ness at the face of challenges, managing declared by Chairperson of the Union Dr First Secretary at the Kuwait Embassy in investments and financial institutions, Huda Yassin Monday night, during a press adding that women have become integral conference on the upcoming Joint Arab to the world’s economic system. Investment conference titled “International She stressed that women are compe- Cooperation Facing the Actual Challenges”. tent and capable of effective and success- Sheikha Fraiha will be honored on April ful management. On the conference, 14 at the Headquarters of the Arab League Sheikh Fraiha noted that it comes at a time in Cairo, with the presence of General when a review of small and big enterprises Secretary Nabil Al-Araby, said Yassin. She is needed, making use of advanced coun- will also be honored by Governor of South tries’ expertise to vary sources of income, Sinai during the rest of the conference’s and face poverty and unemployment. activities in Sharm El-Sheikh on April 15 to 17, for her efforts in developing tourism in Curbing unemployment Egypt, the Chairperson added. According to Sheikha Fraiha, the world Sheikha Fraiha was chosen as is highly concerned with making proper Ambassador due to her efforts in patroniz- use of capital to offer new jobs and curb ing Arab investments on both social and unemployment and inflation rates, as they economic levels, she noted, stressing the have reached fearful levels in many coun- importance of the social part in developing Sheikha Fraiha Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber tries. She said that the conference would investments. Al-Sabah be the biggest gathering for female entre- Egypt Mohammad Al-Oraifan meanwhile preneurs, and will be attended by the UN, Arab investors praised the honoring of Sheikha Fraiha, Arab and African delegations and civil soci- The conference aims to attract Arab noting her continuous efforts inside and ety organizations. investors abroad and encourage them to outside Kuwait to resolve social issues and The opening ceremony will be held at transfer their investments to the region, support women and families. The confer- the Arab League in Cairo on 14 April, then said Dr Huda. It will also work on creating ence will be held from April 14 to 17 in both the conference will move to Sharm El- an industrial partnership between Arab Cairo and Sharm El Sheikh, under the spon- Sheikh. Sheikha Fraiha has been chosen a female and male investors in cooperation sorship of the Arab League, the Council of guest of honor of this 17th session of the with international experts, she added. Arab Economic Unity and a number of conference for her leading role serving Meanwhile, she noted that the meeting Egyptian ministries and organizations. Arab and Kuwaiti societies, and as a role will discuss several topics including provid- model for a successful Arab woman sup- ing bigger opportunities for women to Proven worthy porting sustainable development, both play a key role in development and protect On Monday, Sheikh Fraiha attended a social and economic. — KUNA WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 From the Arabic press

Al-Jarida Al-Watan Decisive Storm: What’s next? Post-birth pregnancy By Dr Shamlan Al-Essa By Saleh Al-Shayji he Decisive Storm operation against Yemen This complicated situation in Yemen requires a new their allies in Yemen and stress that whoever wants dia- Tentered its second week and there are no peaceful Gulf strategy in Yemen that bypasses traditional loyalties logue and calls for it should not show strength with I could not find a better description to the cur- initiatives to stop the war and restore legitimacy in of tribes and sects or military campaigns. GCC countries weapons. Iranian leaders brag about controlling four rent situations in the Arab World than ‘post birth Yemen as per the Gulf vision that is supported by the are required not to push their forces in the quagmire of Arab capitals - Baghdad, Damascus, Beirut, and Sanaa - pregnancy.’ Ever since toppling Iraq’s Saddam United States and the West, summarized in the return of Yemen, and they should urge the president and his sup- and Qassem Suleimani moves between Iraq and Syria in Hussein in 2003, things have been very irritable legitimacy and stop the Houthis’ march to Aden in the porters to take the initiative and have a dialogue with public as if he is inspecting his own forces, and the state- throughout the Arab world with fires starting all south. The question political observers are asking today political parties and movements in Yemen. Our role in the ment of President Rouhani’s advisor Ali Toonis that the time everywhere and more wood and oil is is there a plan for a land campaign against the forces of GCC is to urge parties to negotiate, though negotiations Baghdad has once again become the capital of the being poured on such fires, feeding their flames Saleh and the Houthis? Gulf official statements deny any will be tough if intentions are not sincere, and that no Iranian empire are provoking the feelings of all Arabs and and intensifying the smoke they produce. land intervention, but they link their stand with develop- party aims towards control and expansion at the expense Muslims that cannot be accepted or remain silent That fire started in Iraq, emphasizing how frag- of others. towards. ments on the field. ile dictatorships are, as dictators are keener on The problem today has become more complicated Decisive Storm aims to destroy arms depots and make Decisive Storm restored some respect to Arabs and building one-man states that would fall with their because the political dealing with the issue is no longer sure the air and sea embargo on Yemen continues, and legitimacy in Yemen and made Arab politicians, their par- own fall rather than building real states. Iraq fell feasible, especially since political solutions require under- put an end to Iran’s meddling in Yemen’s domestic affairs. ties and sectarian organizations declare their stands in into wars and terrorism that have been devastat- standings and compromises from all parties in Yemen, We do not know when the military campaign will stop, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen over the Iranian expan- ing, Iraqis’ bodies have been shattered in explo- and we do not know if the forces of former president Ali but what is wanted after the military campaign is over is sion. Arab and Gulf people, along with their countries, sions and doctrinism once more came to the sur- Abdullah Saleh are ready along with the Houthis, who coordination with Arab countries and the international cannot keep silent and turn a blind eye to politicians in face roaring and shaking all forms of peace and played a major role in dragging Yemen into war. Will the community to have a new strategic plan that is in the those countries who have sectarian agendas, and cannot tranquility. Saleh and Houthis drop their arrogance and get into seri- interest of Yemeni people and keep any foreign interfer- blame Arabs and Gulf countries on what is happening in ous negotiations to reach a solution that satisfies all ence in its affairs away. Yemen. Enough destruction of our countries in the name That was followed by the ‘Arab Spring revolu- sides? We should send a clear message to Iran’s leaders and of religion and sects. tions’ to re-emphasize the fragility of the situa- tions throughout Arab countries in general. Although those revolutions managed to produce two democratic regimes actually working on building true states - Egypt and Tunisia - the rest of the Arab Spring-stricken countries did not actually ‘blossom’ nor their lawns got any greener. Contrarily, in countries like Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Libya, they turned into ‘caves of crazy death’, wombs that only beget fatalities and cellars gen- erating ‘statelets’ of death, manslaughter and tumult-loving gangs that dance to the tunes of death and war. Those were all accouchements to which we all rejoiced, danced, cheered and congratulated the concerned ‘expectant parents’, predicting that they would have happy ‘newborn babies’ and healthy and sound democratic regimes without any shortcomings or deformities. However, this did not last long as we soon found that this preg- nancy had actually happened after delivery, and not before it! Now it is clear that this pregnancy is overdue and that it will even take longer and cost more wealth, resources, lives and blood and will surely lead to more fragmentation and division. Now, people are becoming more loyal to sects, doc- trines and races and no more belong to their home countries. Sectarianism and doctrinism are spreading and dominating everywhere and peo- ple are now identified by sects and factions rather than their national identities. Nowadays, we hear very strange tones of speech, ones that we had never heard and never seen people with tongues advocating such speech. Such situations made people more wolfish deep within, with humans faces that only reflect deep-felt hatred that had been always there and now was the chance to spew it all out with all its venomous effects on everybody. So, how long will this pregnancy last? Nobody really knows. Crime Report

Neighbor charged with stealing cookware KUWAIT: A citizen accused her neighbor of borrowing her cookware and not returning it. The citizen told Taima police that her neighbor did not return the utensils despite her repeated requests. The neighbor will be questioned in the case.

Attempted suicide A National Guard officer was sent to criminal evi- dence for firing at a house and attempted suicide. Police received a call about a man armed with an AK-47 attempting to shoot at the house of a police- man. When police arrived and confronted the guard, he threatened to commit suicide. They nego- tiated with him and brought him under control.

Child abuse A policeman at the juveniles’ protection department told Na’eem police that a minor who is psychologically ill was beaten severely by her mother. The mother is being summoned for questioning and further action.

Hospital staff questioned A citizen accused a hospital of causing the dete- rioration of his mother’s health, who had to be transferred to another hospital after using a medi- cine not suitable for her. The citizen, who lives in Nahda, said he took his mother who felt exhausted to a hospital where she was given a medicine and released the same day. He said her condition wors- ened, so he called an ambulance, which transferred her to Jahra Hospital in critical condition.

Pedestrian attacked A Kuwaiti woman was beaten and humiliated in the street in front of passersby by two men. She called for help to no avail, then lost consciousness. The woman went to the Qusoor police station after regaining consciousness to complain against the two men. Police are investigating.

Drunk men held A police patrol noticed two people walking unsteadily, so they stopped them and found they were drunk. When police asked them to get into the patrol car, they said: “We were going to buy chapat- ti, and now you make us get into the patrol car!?” - Al-Rai, Al-Anbaa

Murder threat A citizen told Abdullah Al-Mubarak police that her brother threatened to kill her. The woman said her sister- in-law came to her after a dispute with her brother. The next morning he came to collect his wife, during which an argument took place after he accused his sister of provoking his wife against him. He then returned in the evening, beat his sister, pulled her hair and put a firearm on her head and threatened to kill her before leaving. He also kept sending her threatening texts over the phone. Concerned authorities are investigating. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 Iran hard-liners rally Albino body parts used for witchcraft in Tanzania against nuclear deal

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This undated handout photograph released by the Indian Air Force shows Indian nationals evacuated from Yemen sitting in an Indian Air Force plane in Djibouti before being flown to Mumbai. Fierce clashes raged yesterday between rebels and loyalists in southern Yemen as more countries scrambled to pull out their citizens from the Arabian Peninsula country.—AFP (See Page 12) Situation ‘catastrophic’ in Yemen’s Aden Saudi-led airstrikes hit Yemen’s south amid ground fighting

ADEN: The Red Cross warned yesterday to escape,” she said. Doctors Without people have been killed and 1,700 between Hadi’s supporters and oppo- criticized the coalition’s intervention and paign without providing military forces, of a “catastrophic” situation in Yemen’s Borders (MSF) said the situation was wounded in fighting in Yemen since nents to expand its control following the rejected its accusations of arming the held talks in Tehran yesterday. Iranian main southern city Aden, as loyalist “worsening by the day,” with wounded March 19, the World Health Organization withdrawal of US troops overseeing a Shiite rebels. Pakistani Prime Minister Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif forces battled rebels in the streets people unable to get to hospital because said yesterday. The UN’s children agency longstanding drone war against it. Nawaz Sharif told parliament that his is expected in Islamabad today. Pakistan backed by shelling by Saudi-led war- of the fighting. UNICEF said at least 74 children had been government was “not in a hurry” to faces a tricky dilemma over intervention ships. The Iran-backed Houthi Shiite The MSF medical team in Aden had confirmed killed since the coalition air Pakistan in ‘no hurry’ decide on the Saudi request. in Yemen. It has long enjoyed close ties rebels and their allies made a new push “not received large numbers of casualties strikes began on March 26, adding that it Pakistan meanwhile said it would He said that diplomatic efforts were with Riyadh and has benefited hugely on a port in the central Mualla district of over the past few days, not because believed the real figure to be much high- take its time deciding whether to accept under way involving Turkey as well as from the oil-rich kingdom’s largesse. But the city but were forced back by militia there are no wounded people, but due to er. a Saudi request to join the coalition, Iran and Pakistan that he expected to it has called for a negotiated solution loyal to fugitive President Abedrabbo the difficulties faced in trying to reach a More than 100,000 people have been which so far consists of nine Arab-mostly quickly bear fruit. Turkish President saying it does not want to take part in Mansour Hadi, witnesses said. Naval hospital,” MSF Yemen representative displaced by the fighting, the agency Sunni-countries. Pakistan’s neighbor Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has any conflict that would worsen sectarian forces of the Saudi-led coalition, which Marie-Elisabeth Ingres said. MSF has a added. During the night, Saudi-led war- Iran-the main Shiite power-has strongly expressed support for the coalition cam- divisions in the Muslim world.—AFP has carried out nearly two weeks of air team of 140 local staff and eight expatri- planes carried out fresh strikes on the strikes in support of Hadi’s beleaguered ates at a hospital in Aden. “Our priority is rebel-held Al-Anad air base north of government, shelled rebel positions to find a way to send a supporting med- Aden, pro-Hadi General Muthanna Jawas across the city, they added. ical team,” Ingres told AFP, adding that a said. Further east, Al-Qaeda’s Yemen fran- Spokeswoman for the International team is waiting in Djibouti “for a green- chise-seen by the US as the jihadist net- Committee of the Red Cross in Yemen, light from the coalition.” work’s most dangerous-sought to tight- Marie Claire Feghali, said that the en its grip on Hadramawt province, a humanitarian situation in all of Yemen is Death toll mounts longtime stronghold. Residents reported “very difficult...(with) naval, air and At least 10 people were killed in fight- loud explosions as the jihadists attacked ground routes cut off.” She described the ing in Aden overnight, medical and secu- a loyalist army base in the provincial cap- situation in Aden as “catastrophic to say rity sources said. That was on top of at ital Mukalla, much of which they cap- the least.” “The war in Aden is on every least 53 people killed over the previous tured last week. Observers have warned street, in every corner... Many are unable 24 hours. Nationwide, more than 540 Al-Qaeda could exploit the fighting UN demands access to besieged Yarmuk

DAMASCUS: The UN Security Council tarian access to be given.” “What civil- Late last week, several thousand has demanded humanitarian access to ians in Yarmuk are most concerned residents were able to escape, with Syria’s Yarmuk Palestinian refugee about right now is bare survival,” he some taking refuge in the govern- camp as residents described fleeing in said. IS jihadists began an assault on ment-held Damascus district of terror after the arrival of jihadists of Yarmuk last Wednesday, and were ini- Tadamun. They said they had endured the Islamic State group. The advance tially repelled by Palestinian fighters the siege and shelling, but that the by the extremists into the battered but have since seized large swathes of advance by IS was the last straw. “I left neighborhood of south Damascus has the district. Nearly 40 people have the camp despite myself,” said Um alarmed the international community been killed in the fighting, according Usama, a 40-year-old, who lived in and Palestinian officials, with a delega- to the Syrian Observatory for Human Yarmuk for 17 years. “I’d stayed on tion from the West Bank heading to Rights. The Britain-based group said IS despite the bombings and famine,” she Syria to discuss the situation. The forces were present in the south, west said, at a school serving as a shelter. Security Council expressed deep con- and east of the camp, with Palestinian “Daesh’s arrival meant destruction and cern about the situation on Monday, fighters largely confined to the north. massacre,” she added, using an Arabic said Jordan’s ambassador Dina Kawar, acronym for IS. “Their behavior’s not who chairs the council this month. ‘Inhuman behavior’ human and their religion is not ours,” It called “for the protection of civil- Syrian government forces have added the thin woman with sunken ians in the camp for ensuring a dropped barrel bombs on IS positions eyes. Other residents said IS had car- humanitarian access to the area in the camp, it added. The IS attack is ried out beheadings and beatings. At including by providing life-saving just the latest blow for Yarmuk, which least seven Palestinian fighters were assistance,” Kawar said. It also stood was once a thriving, working-class res- executed by the jihadists, including ready to consider “further measures to idential district of the capital, home to two who were beheaded, the provide necessary assistance,” she some 160,000 people-Syrians and Observatory said. The plight of the added, without providing details. The Palestinians. The camp, the largest of camp’s residents has raised concern in call came after the council held a its kind in Syria, has suffered repeated the Palestinian territories, where both closed-door meeting on the crisis and bombardment and has been under a president Mahmud Abbas and the heard from the head of the UN agency government siege for more than 18 rival Hamas movement have called for for Palestinian refugees about the months. The embargo was so tight at Yarmuk to be spared. A delegation led plight of the camp’s 18,000 or so one point that there were reports of by Palestine Liberation Organization remaining residents. deaths from shortages of food and official Ahmed Majdalani was due to UNRWA chief Pierre Krahenbuhl medicines. Residents said they sur- hold talks in Damascus later on. described the situation as “more des- vived on wild herbs and plants. An Majdalani said ahead of the trip perate than ever.” He urged countries agreement last year allowed a slight that he would talk to Syrian officials with influence in Syria to act “for civil- easing of the siege, but humanitarian about securing a corridor to allow aid ian lives to be spared and for humani- access has remained limited. in and civilians out.—AFP INTERNATIONAL WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 Rebels kill 8 Iranian soldiers on border

TEHRAN: Eight Iranian border guards have “I’m advised overnight that Saeed has been killed in a clash with Sunni rebels who accepted medical assistance and is on some had infiltrated from neighboring Pakistan, path to recovery,” Dutton told the Australian Iran’s official IRNA news agency reported Broadcasting Corporation. “Obviously he’s yesterday. “Armed terrorists entered Iran got a long way to go but the advice that I from Pakistan and clashed with border have is that he has decided to take fluids or guards, killing eight soldiers before fleeing food and he’s speaking to his (immigration back to Pakistan,” Ali Asghar Mirshekari, department) case manager and his medical deputy governor of Sistan-Baluchistan team.” Dutton said he was pleased that province, told the news agency. The south- Hassanloo, who was admitted to Royal Perth eastern province has a large Sunni commu- Hospital in March, was improving, but the nity and has seen repeated attacks by mili- protest would not change the outcome of tants on the security forces of mainly Shiite the case. He added: “The determination has Iran. But the clash in the Negur district was been made that he is not owed refugee sta- the deadliest since October 2013 when 14 tus and he is not going to stay in Australia.” border guards were killed in an attack Dutton said people in their millions want- claimed by Sunni militant group Jaish-ul Adl ed to come to Australia for a better life but (Army of Justice). The same group captured he could not allow those who self-harmed or five Iranian troops in February last year. Four refused food and fluids to “twist my arm”. “If I of them were released last April. The fifth is was to succumb to that pressure, the strong still missing presumed dead. advice from my department... is that I would have hundreds if not thousands of people on Iranian asylum-seeker hunger strikes tomorrow,” he said. Refugee In another development, an Iranian asy- advocates say there are about 45 Iranian asy- lum-seeker is recovering after a 40-day lum-seekers in indefinite detention in hunger strike, Australian Immigration Australia because they are refusing to return Minister Peter Dutton said yesterday, but to their homeland after having their claims insisted the near-fatal protest would not for refugee status denied. Iran refuses to TEHRAN: Iranian hard-line lawmaker Mahdi Kouchakzadeh (center) chants anti-US slogans (Death to the US) in protest in this filephoto. — AP influence the government’s immigration accept people who are returned against their policy. Saeed Hassanloo, 25, is the second will. Hassanloo, who arrived in 2010, report- Iranian asylum-seeker to take on an extend- edly embarked on the hunger strike after ed hunger strike in recent months after a 33- being told his bid for refugee status had Iran hard-liners rally year-old ended a similar protest in January- been refused and fears persecution if both over Canberra’s treatment of their returned to Iran after converting to claims for resettlement in Australia. Christianity. —Agencies against nuclear deal Islamic State beheads Recognition of Israel not part of Iran nuke deal: US 4 for robbery, murder TEHRAN: Dozens of Iranian hard-liners rallied yes- long suspected Iran’s nuclear program is geared for be conditional on Tehran’s recognition of the terday against the framework deal struck last week weapons-making, a charge Tehran denies, insisting Jewish state’s right to exist, branding it a “funda- BAGHDAD: The Islamic State group has returned to its owners, who make thumbprints between Iran and six world powers on curbing it’s only for peaceful purposes like power genera- mental misjudgment”. Speaking after Israel pro- beheaded four men for armed robbery and in a receipt book. An IS offensive overran large Tehran’s nuclear program, the official IRNA news tion and cancer treatment. posed its own terms for the accord, Obama told murder in the northern Iraqi province of areas north and west of Baghdad in June, but agency reported. The rally coincided with a closed Since the agreement was announced last US radio network NPR Monday that demands for Nineveh, according to an online propaganda security forces and allied paramilitaries have session of parliament during which Foreign Thursday in Lausanne, Switzerland, Iranian hard- Iran to recognize the country go beyond the video seen by AFP yesterday. The undated succeeded in driving the militants out of much Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who led Iran’s liners have also claimed it will provide international scope of the agreement. “The notion that we video portrays the group, which has been of two provinces north of the capital. Nineveh, negotiating team in the intense talks in monitors from the UN nuclear watchdog agency - would condition Iran not getting nuclear steadily retreating recently from Iraqi forces where the video was said to have been shot, Switzerland, appeared before lawmakers to explain the International Atomic Energy Agency - access to weapons in a verifiable deal on Iran recognizing backed by Iran and a US-led coalition and Iran, was the first to fall to the IS-led drive and is still the framework agreement. The gathering of about Iranian military sites, though that has not been part Israel, is really akin to saying that we won’t sign a as still capable of maintaining law and order the jihadist group’s main stronghold in the 200 hard-liners took place in front of the parlia- of the framework. Iran’s deputy foreign minister, deal unless the nature of the Iranian regime com- and dispensing justice. A masked militant in country. The militants have carried out a wave ment in the Iranian capital without permission by Hassan Qashqavi, said Tuesday’s parliament session pletely transforms,” he said in a drive to sell the front of a large crowd to reads out over a loud- of abuses in areas they control in Iraq and Syria, authorities, IRNA reported. “useful” and urged lawmakers to support Zarif and deal to a hostile Congress. speaker the charges of which the men were including public beheadings, mass executions, Protesters carried banners calling the agree- his team of negotiators ahead of further talks in “And that is, I think, a fundamental misjudg- convicted by the “Islamic Court in the State of enslavement and rape. Meanwhile, Iraqi foren- ment a “defeat” - despite the establishment’s over- finalizing the agreement. Another lawmaker, ment.” Israel’s government reacted angrily to the Nineveh.” sic teams in the newly liberated city of Tikrit whelming backing of the deal, including by Behrouz Nemati said the “majority of lawmakers historic framework agreement on Iran’s nuclear A masked executioner is then shown have started exhuming bodies from mass President Hassan Rouhani. The deal, which is to be were satisfied” with Zarif’s report. program announced last week, with a final accord beheading four men with a sword, after which graves believed to contain some of the hun- finalized by June 30, is to curb Iran’s bomb-capable due by June 30. Prime Minister Benjamin their bodies are hung on crosses in the back of dreds of soldiers killed by Islamic State militants technology while giving Tehran quick access to Obama rejects call Netanyahu demanded Sunday that Iranian recogni- a small pickup truck. Earlier in the video, last year, a government spokesman said yester- bank accounts, oil markets and financial assets US President Barack Obama has rejected a call tion of the Jewish state’s right to exist be written allegedly stolen money is shown being day.—Agencies blocked by international sanctions. The West has by Israel for any nuclear agreement with Iran to into the agreement.—Agencies INTERNATIONAL WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 Chicago voters head to polls for mayor’s race

CHICAGO: Chicago voters headed to the any major US city, upcoming contract polls yesterday in the city’s first mayoral negotiations with a teachers union that runoff as Rahm Emanuel seeks a second went on strike in 2012 and a persistent term over Cook County Commissioner crime problem. The leader of the nation’s Jesus “Chuy” Garcia. The candidates criss- third-largest city will also have to attract crossed Chicago a day earlier to greet com- new residents and businesses. muters, rally supporters and call voters. Emanuel, a former White House chief of Emanuel’s campaign staff, has tried to convince the public he’s Emanuel has tried to convince voters the best person to navigate Chicago’s that controversial actions - such as closing mounting fiscal problems. Garcia has criti- dozens of schools in 2013 - were beneficial. cized Emanuel for not listening to neigh- But in the process he’s admitted his borhood residents and touted a strong get- famously aggressive approach could have out-the-vote effort. Here are some things been softer. He’s also tried to poke holes in to know: his opponent’s experience. Emanuel spent Monday shaking hands with the breakfast Early voting surge crowd and calling voters. He told reporters The Chicago Board of Election he’s been reminding people of his achieve- Commissioners says more than 142,300 res- ments: lobbying successfully for full-day idents voted early, compared with nearly kindergarten and a higher minimum wage. 90,000 ahead of the February election and “People going to the polls are interested in roughly 73,200 before the 2011 election. Chicago’s future,” he said. “They’re voting Both campaigns emphasized early voting, for the basic things that they want for their with the candidates casting ballots ahead families, their neighborhoods and their of polls. Still, election officials have been communities.” uncertain about how many early votes may have been due to Chicagoans trying to Garcia’s challenge vote before heading out on spring break Garcia’s message has been that he’ll vacations. focus on every neighborhood, and he says Emanuel has largely paid attention to the Chicago’s first runoff wealthy and businesses. He’s also played on The mayoral runoff is Chicago’s first frustrations with schools and violence. FERGUSON: Reginald Rounds, a volunteer with the Organization for Black Struggle, knocks on a door while canvassing a neighborhood in since the city adopted nonpartisan elec- Supporters - including the Rev. Jesse Ferguson, Mo. — AP tions in the 1990s. Emanuel failed to win a Jackson - rallied Monday in the heavily majority in February’s first-round election. Mexican Pilsen neighborhood. They blasted He finished first in the five-candidate field, Emanuel for not taking down widely criti- Race and reforms eyed as winning 45 percent, while Garcia came in cized red-light cameras, while praising second with roughly 34 percent. Garcia for meeting with residents over noise complaints near O’Hare International What’s at stake Airport. “We weren’t supposed to be here. Ferguson residents vote Chicago’s next mayor faces major issues, We were counted out,” Garcia told support- including the worst-funded pensions of ers. “People had their say in Chicago.”— AP Critical step toward ending discriminatory practices

Fate of Boston bomber MISSOURI: Residents in Ferguson, Missouri representation is guaranteed to double to resigned in March after the Justice were casting their votes yesterday in a closely two after the election and could increase to Department released a scathing report entrusted to the US jury watched election some see as a critical step three seats. A history of low voter turnout has describing the findings. toward ending discriminatory practices some worried. “This is a step we need to get Ferguson was hit by months of protests BOSTON: The fate of Boston bomber Tsarnaev’s lawyers admit that he plant- detailed in a federal probe of the St Louis sub- the city headed in the right direction,” said including some violence and looting after Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was entrusted to jurors ed one of the bombs, but have portrayed urb, which was wracked by months of racially Patricia Bynes, a Democratic committee- white officer Darren Wilson fatally shot yesterday as they started deliberating the him as a feckless accomplice, bullied or charged protests. Three seats are up for elec- woman for Ferguson Township who has been Michael Brown, 18, in a confrontation on Aug. guilt of the 21-year-old American accused manipulated into taking part by his more tion on the six-member City Council in running a voter education program. “But we 9. Protests surged in November after a grand of carrying out the deadly 2013 attacks. radical elder brother. The jury must decide Ferguson, where two-thirds of the residents are dealing with a community that doesn’t jury decided Wilson should not be charged. Three people were killed and 264 others whether Tsarnaev is guilty on 30 counts are African-American and the municipal lead- regularly vote.” Ferguson, which has about 21,000 residents, wounded in the twin blasts at the city’s related to the April 15, 2013 attacks, and ership has been long dominated by whites. Voter turnout in Ferguson for local elec- has had only two black council members in its marathon, the worst attack in the United the subsequent murder of a police officer, a None of the incumbents are running. tions historically runs from 10 percent to 40 history, including Councilman Dwayne James, States since the September 11, 2001 car jacking and a shootout with police Community activists say a lack of adequate percent, according to St Louis County records, who is not up for re-election. Eight candidates attacks on New York, Washington and while on the run. Seventeen of those representation for African-Americans in though voter registration was up about 4.6 including four African-Americans are vying for Pennsylvania. Government prosecutors charges carry the possibility of the death Ferguson has contributed to a range of prob- percent in the past nine months to more than the three seats. Two African-American candi- portrayed the Muslim immigrant, who penalty. The first stage of the one-month lems that were exposed when a white police 12,000 voters. The election follows a US dates are running in the ward where Brown became a US citizen in 2012, as a callous trial wrapped up Monday with closing officer killed an unarmed black teenager in Justice Department investigation that found lived. Four candidates, two black and two terrorist who carried out the bombings to statements from the government and the August. broad racial bias in Ferguson’s police force white, are seeking a second seat. The third bring holy war to the northeastern US city defense, and lengthy jury instructions from Activists hope new City Council member- and municipal court system. Ferguson’s city seat is being contested by two white candi- and punish the United States. federal Judge George O’Toole.—AFP ship will change that, and African-American manager, police chief and municipal judge dates.— Reuters INTERNATIONAL WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

Kenyans march for national security after massacre

NAIROBI: Kenyans marched demand- ty in Garissa last Thursday, some 365 society activist. The army said Monday’s ing greater national security yesterday kilometers from the capital, as Shebab airstrikes destroyed two Islamist bases, following last week’s massacre by gunmen stormed dormitory buildings. and followed a promise by Kenyatta Somalia’s Shabab Islamists, ahead of a that he would retaliate “in the severest candlelit vigil on the final day of Fear of new attack way possible” against the Shebab mili- mourning for the 148 people killed by The extremists lined up non-Muslim tants for their attack last Thursday. the militants. Yesterday’s demonstra- students for execution in what tion, with some 200 students marching President Uhuru Kenyatta described as Battle against Shebab through central Nairobi waving plac- a “barbaric medieval slaughter”. Kenyan airplanes have made repeat- ards, comes as security forces continue Students in the demonstration carried ed strikes in southern Somalia since their hunt for those behind the univer- placards with the slogan “147 is not just sending troops into their war-torn sity killings. Students slapped vehicles a number”, referring to the death toll in neighbor in 2011 to attack Shebab with their hands as they marched the massacre - although that has since bases, with Nairobi later joining the through the streets, chanting “you are risen to 148. The massacre, Kenya’s African Union force fighting the not safe, you are not safe!” Maureen deadliest attack since the 1998 bomb- Islamists. The Shebab group has carried Mucheri, 21, an engineering student at ing of the US embassy in Nairobi, out a string of revenge attacks in neigh- Nairobi University, said she feared claimed the lives of 142 students, three boring countries, notably Kenya and another attack, refusing to go into police officers and three soldiers. “We Uganda, in response to their participa- shopping malls and churches, because shall not forget,” the Standard newspa- tion in the AU force. On Saturday, “the government is doing nothing”. per front-page read, as news media Shebab warned of a “long, gruesome Some students carried flowers, oth- printed the faces of those killed in the war” unless Kenya withdraws its troops ers stopped to light candles. “We are attack, even as scores of relatives con- from Somalia. NAIROBI: Friends and relatives of victims light candles yesterday in Nairobi, on mourning the loss of our fellow com- tinue an agonizing wait for the remains Shabab fighters also carried out the the final day of mourning for the 148 people killed in an attack claimed by rades, we have lost the vibrant blood of their loved ones at the main mortu- Westgate shopping mall attack in Somalia’s Al-Qaeda-linked Shabab insurgents on a university campus in that would have built tomorrow’s ary in Nairobi. Nairobi in September 2013, a four-day Kenya’s northern town of Garissa. — AFP Kenya,” Mucheri added. A larger vigil is Vigil organizer Boniface Mwangi, siege which left at least 67 people dead. planned for early evening on the third who has urged Kenyans to come with Five men have been arrested in connec- termind behind the attack and believed ate for the massacre, there have also and final day of national mourning. flowers and to dress in black for the vig- tion with the university attack, including to now be in Somalia. been calls for national unity. In an Kenyan fighter jets pounded camps il in Nairobi’s Uhuru Park-or “Freedom” three alleged “coordinators” captured as Authorities have named one of the address to the nation on Saturday, belonging to the Al-Qaeda-linked insur- in Swahili-has been deeply critical of they fled towards Somalia, and two oth- four gunmen killed as a fellow Kenyan- Kenyatta said people’s “justified anger” gents in southern Somalia on Monday, the country’s security failings. ers seized in the university compound. a once promising university law gradu- should not lead to “the victimisation of but anger has been growing over alle- “Entrenched corruption in the security A $215,000 (200,000 euro) bounty has ate called Abdirahim Abdullahi, an eth- anyone”-a clear reference to Kenya’s gations that critical intelligence warn- system allows Al-Shebab to move freely also been offered for alleged Shebab nic Somali-highlighting the Shebab’s large Muslim and Somali minorities in a ings were missed. Special forces units in and out of Kenya and carry out such commander Mohamed Mohamud, a for- ability to recruit within the country. country where 80 percent of the popu- took seven hours to reach the universi- attacks with ease,” said Mwangi, a civil mer Kenyan teacher said to be the mas- Although Kenyatta has vowed to retali- lation is Christian.— AFP Potions and polls: Tanzanian albinos terrified after attacks Albino body parts used for witchcraft

DAR ES SALAAM: Their limbs hacked off and babies and children abducted or killed, albinos in Tanzania live in fear of another horrific spate of attacks against them ahead of elections in October. Albino body parts are boiled up in foul human potions for witchcraft in the east African nation, and reports of killings have increased as local politicians order their spells in the belief that the expensive brews will secure poll victory. “Local political leaders believe in the power of witchdoctors and think that it could help them to win elections,” said Vicky Ntetema, director of Under The Same Sun, an organization defending the rights of albinos in Tanzania. With an entire corpse selling for as much as $75,000 (70,000 euros), Ntetema claims the high price is an indication that “some political and economic elites” could be involved in albino murders. In one recent attack, a six-year-old albi- no boy’s hand was chopped off with a machete and his mother assaulted as she tried to protect him. At least 76 albinos have been murdered since 2000 with their dismembered body parts selling for hundreds of dollars, according to DAR ES SALAAM: Josephat Torner, 32, who has albinism and works for the country’s Albino United Nations experts. A further 34 albinos Society, speaks in Dar es Salaam about discrimination and threats against Tanzania’s albino have survived after having parts of their bodies population. —AFP hacked off, and grave robbers have dug up at least 15 more albinos, seeking buried limbs and teaching post after studying “because of my dreds of witchdoctors in a bid to stem the albino bodies. condition.” Still Seif is optimistic that attitudes murders. But campaigners such as Torner-who are slowly changing, at least in urban areas. “Bad travels regularly around remote northern reactions in a restaurant or a bar were very com- regions to raise awareness about albinism-say RAMALLAH: An Israeli crane lifts a section of concrete as they build a defensive wall Forced to flee mon in the past but not so much now,” he said. that in the long-term, it will be education that around the Israeli settlement of Beit El, in the occupied West Bank north of Ramallah, Sengerema Simon, a 28-year-old man with In March, Tanzanian police rounded up hun- will “eliminate the false beliefs.”— AFP next to a road used by Palestinians from the adjacent Jalazon refugee camp. —AFP albinism, was forced to flee his village in Tanzania’s northern Tabora region fearing he would be attacked and cooked. “In the village, I With no space to grow, West often heard people just call me ‘the albino’, then one day men I did not know called me by my Blair joins UK election Bank refugees look upwards name, saying they were going to do business... I was very scared,” he said. Unemployed, he now fray with EU warning JALAZON REFUGEE CAMP: Nael Al-Sharif 14,000, officials at the camp say. Located ekes out a living in the commercial capital Dar es is working on an extension to his property next to the Bet El Jewish settlement, it is Salaam with help from the Tanzania Albinism in the Jalazon refugee camp in the Israeli- the scene of near daily clashes between Society. LONDON: Former prime minister Tony Blair Blair’s statement came as centre-right occupied West Bank. But he is not building youngsters and Israeli troops with the army Albinism is a hereditary genetic condition plunged into Britain’s general election fray Conservative leader Cameron pledged to outwards-instead he’s expanding upwards. keeping a close eye on the camp’s perime- which causes a total absence of pigmentation in yesterday, sounding a warning about the dan- renegotiate Britain’s relationship with the EU In many of the Palestinian camps, which ter fence. Although its population has the skin, hair and eyes. It affects one Tanzanian gers of the country leaving the EU. In a rare and then hold an in-or-out referendum on the have evolved down the decades into grown, the camp has not. This has caused a in 1,400, often as a result of inbreeding, experts intervention in domestic politics, Blair claimed outcome by the end of 2017. The possibility of densely populated areas teeming with nar- severe housing shortage, prompting resi- say. Tanzania is home to some 49 million people. Prime Minister David Cameron’s planned refer- leaving the EU would create job insecurity and row alleyways, families that cannot afford dents to build the only way they can- Many attacks take place in northwestern endum on European Union membership leave a “pall of unpredictability hanging over to buy new land simply add floors to exist- upwards, in a chaotic fashion and without Tanzania among the Sukuma people, the coun- threatens the British economy. Blair headed the British economy”, Blair said in his former ing property. architectural input. try’s largest ethnic group and one with a long the centre-left Labor Party from 1994 to 2007, Sedgefield constituency in northeast England. Sharif, 43, says his two-storey home is “Housing is a big problem here,” says 60- belief in witchcraft. But experts say a thriving leading them to three general election victo- “Leaving Europe would leave Britain dimin- too small for his entire family of around 30 year-old Khadija Dawud whose three- informal mining industry has also driven the ries. In June 2007, he stepped down as prime ished in the world, do significant damage to people, so he is looking to add another two storey home is crammed with 63 family killings, with prospectors desperate for anything minister and resigned from British politics. He our economy and, less obviously but just as floors. “We’re suffering from an enormous members. “We can’t buy land outside the that could help them strike it rich. will not run in the May 7 election and is back- important to our future, would go against the housing problem,” he said. “We’re practical- camp because we can’t afford it.” Mahmud “The murders are connected to gold and dia- ing Labor leader Ed Miliband. But Miliband has very qualities and ambitions that mark us out ly sleeping on top of each other-my six Mubarak, who heads the local committee mond miners’ efforts to secure lucky charms for distanced himself from the Blair era, and many still as a great global nation. “A decision to sons share one single room, and me, my which runs Jalazon, confirms that people finding minerals and protection against danger in the Labor party see the former prime minis- leave Europe would say a lot about us and wife and two other children sleep in anoth- are building upwards because they cannot while mining,” a 2010 report by the British-based ter as a liability due to unpopularity over none of it good.” er. “So we decided to build two more floors. afford new land. “In 1950, UNRWA built one Journal of Modern African Studies said. In Africa, Britain’s role in the invasion of Iraq. I can’t afford any more land outside the room and a kitchen for each family of five, albinos generate a mixture of fear and fascina- ‘Unacceptable gamble’ camp.” With growing concerns about safety and two rooms and a kitchen for each fami- tion: some are stigmatized for their different col- He claimed Cameron’s plan was a “conces- in the ever-expanding camps, the UN ly larger than that,” he said. “Population or, others treated almost as “divine figures,” said sion” to the right of his party, a “manoeuvre” to agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), growth has been a massive problem, and Giorgio Brocco, an expert at Germany’s Free win back voters from the anti-EU UK has banned construction beyond two properties have been extended in an University of Berlin. “In some part of Africa, some Independence Party (UKIP) and “a sop to the floors on foundations not designed to sup- unsafe way. But they have no choice.” Both ethnic groups originally believed that people rampant anti-Europe feeling of parts of the port tall buildings. UNRWA and the camp’s local committee with albinism disappeared instead of dying-or media. “It is a completely unacceptable gam- An UNRWA spokesman confirmed the have warned about the growing height of that they are gods,” Brocco said. ble with our nation’s future.” Blair set the issue prohibition, saying the agency does not buildings. “This situation is dangerous for in the strategic context of an aggressive Russia provide aid to home owners who break the the camp’s residents because building work Stigma from birth and the economic rise of China and India. “Do rule. “Over the years, these camps have is done unsafely, without architectural Not in Tanzania, however, where they have we really think this is the time in which to put transformed from temporary ‘tent cities’ supervision, and on unstable foundations,” “mostly been discriminated against” because into play our very membership of the into hyper-congested masses of multi- Mubarak says. “If there’s no solution, the sit- they cannot so easily take part in farming, as European Union, the largest commercial mar- storey buildings with narrow alleys, charac- uation will get worse, and... the buildings their skin burns in the fierce sun, Brocco added. ket and most developed political union in the terized by high concentrations of poverty will just get even higher.” That stigma begins at birth, said Josephat Torner, world?” he asked. The 61-year-old Middle East peace envoy was questioned about his back- and extreme overcrowding,” the agency 32, who has albinism and works for the country’s ing for Miliband and claimed “100 percent” says on its website. “The camps are consid- Began as tented camp Albino Society. “When I was born, the communi- support. ered to be among the densest urban envi- UNRWA public information officer Nader ty wanted to poison me. People thought I was a “There’s always been disagreement within ronments in the world, but because camp Dagher said that the lack of space coupled bad omen for the village... but my mother the Labor Party, different people with different structures were built for temporary use, with population growth was a major con- stopped them and saved my life.” Torner recalls views... but the important thing is what we over the decades the buildings have cern. “These camps began as tents on the how growing up he was ostracized for his looks. share in common,” he said. “I want Labor, become overcrowded, critically substan- ground. Most of the camps were built on “Children didn’t want to play with me under Ed’s leadership, to be the government dard and in many cases life-threatening,” less than half a square kilometer, and this is because they thought I could contaminate of our country on May 8. I believe we can and UNRWA says. But the ban has had little not sufficient to allow for natural popula- them, even my own brothers didn’t touch my clothes for the same reasons,” he said. will do it.” During a campaign visit to Belfast, effect, with residents saying they have no tion growth,” Dagher says. The 18 West Cameron said Blair wanted to ignore the will choice but to look to the sky. Bank camps and one in Shuafat in annexed Campaigners say that education and raising NEWTON AYCLIFFE: Former British Prime awareness are vital in changing beliefs and prej- of the people. “I think Tony Blair is wrong. I east Jerusalem collectively house around Minister Tony Blair speaks during a visit to want changes in Europe but then, unlike Tony More people, less land 220,000 people, UN figures show. udice. “You may apply for a post of employ- the Hitachi factory in his former con- ment... you may have all the qualifications and Blair, I will trust the people in an in-out refer- Jalazon, seven kilometers north of the Established in territory that was then stituency in Newton Aycliffe, England yes- endum,” he said. Polling experts predict a West Bank city of Ramallah, is one of 18 UN- held by Jordan, they provided temporary experience, but you will never get employed terday, warning of economic chaos should because of negative attitudes,” said Kondo Seif, hung parliament. The latest BBC poll tracker run refugee camps in the West Bank. accommodation for Palestinians who fled Prime Minister David Cameron’s puts the Conservatives on 34 percent, Labor Established in 1949 on 25 hectares of land, or were forced out of their homes during who works for Under the Same Sun. Conservative Party win the next General Seif, a top student at the University of Dar es on 33 percent and right-wing UKIP on 13 per- it was originally home to 2,500 people. the war that accompanied Israel’s establish- Election. —AP cent.— AFP Today, Jalazon’s population numbers ment in 1948.— AFP Salaam, says he was denied a scholarship and

INTERNATIONAL WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 Afghan women activists face rising violence KABUL: Afghan women activists who are working believe it could become the pivot on which extremists like the Taliban and other conservative Despite legal protections, Amnesty says that to improve the human rights situation in their coun- Afghanistan’s culture of impunity for abuse of forces, government officials, local commanders and Afghan women rights workers who do report vio- try face increased violence, including threats, sexual women turns. While Shetty said that many attacks even male colleagues of women had also been lence or attacks are put at further risk simply for assault and assassinations, Amnesty International on women human rights activists were by religious involved in violence against them. speaking out. Afghanistan has regularly been said yesterday. The London-based watchdog criti- named as one of the worst places in the world to cized Afghan authorities in a new report released in be born female. Hasina Safi, head of the Afghan Kabul, saying that both the Afghan government Women’s Network, a non-government organization and the international community have abandoned working with women to raise their awareness of the women activists despite the gains made in the their rights, said that outside main Afghan cities, past decade. Based on interviews with more than 50 women who work outside their homes face daily women rights defenders and their relatives across threats of being killed or kidnapped - simply the country, Amnesty said it found that Afghan because they dare work. “Of course we are con- authorities consistently ignored or refused to act on cerned as women, as members of society who want threats against women. to work and remain in Afghanistan,” she said. “The lack of protection is simply shocking,” Salil In the years since the 1996-2001 Taliban regime, Shetty, Amnesty International’s secretary general, great strides have been made in Afghan women’s told reporters. He said that out of the 50 cases education and health, but they are still generally Amnesty examined, in only one instance was an regarded as inferior to men, and treated as such. arrest made. In all the other cases, complaints were Girls are married off to older men, sold to pay debts neglected or ignored by officials. The report’s and barred from leaving their marital homes, often release comes as Afghanistan is examining tradi- even if they just want to seek medical care. tional attitudes on women following some high Hundreds of billions of dollars have funded pro- profile cases of abuse and violence. In late March, a grams aimed at improving women’s lives, yet con- 27-year-old woman was beaten to death by a mob stitutional rights still go largely ignored. President in downtown Kabul, while a crowd watched and Ashraf Ghani, who took office in September, has filmed the attack. Eyewitnesses have said that pledged to ensure that women’s rights are respect- police failed to prevent the attack and in some cas- ed. Amnesty’s report also urged the Afghan gov- es participated. The woman, known as Farkhunda, ernment to ensure that all allegations of threats or had been falsely accused of burning a Quran, KABUL: Executive Director for Afghan women’s Network (AWN), Hasina Safi (center) raises her hand attacks against women rights activists are fully and according to government investigators. Her killing to ask a question during a press conference by Amnesty International announcing their report on impartially investigated and perpetrators held to has been widely condemned, and many activists threats to women activists in Kabul. — AP account. — AP Malaysian lawmakers pass tough anti-terrorism law Malaysia accused of human rights assault

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia was accused yester- day of waging an assault on civil rights as parlia- ment passed a tough anti-terrorism law aimed at countering Islamic militancy. The passage of the Prevention of Terrorism Act came as the govern- ment announced that 17 militants-whom police say were arrested for plotting terror attacks in the country-had drawn their inspiration from the extremist Islamic State group. The new law allows authorities to detain terrorism suspects without charge for extended periods. The political oppo- sition and legal and rights groups had urged its SEOUL: A South Korean protester tears off a copied paper which has images of covers withdrawal, saying it could be used by the long- of Japan’s new school books for social studies and history during a rally against ruling government to stifle political dissent. Japan in front of the Japanese Embassy in Seoul. — AP “My biggest fear is that the law may be abused,” said opposition lawmaker N Surendran. Japan rebuffs outcry “I don’t think there is any basis for the govern- ment’s claim that this law is needed to contain (the Islamic State),” he added, calling it “a griev- over new textbooks ous blow to democracy”. The government has promised the law would not be abused for politi- TOKYO: Japan yesterday rebuffed neighbor- Suga rejected those claims. “Our country’s cal ends. Authorities have repeatedly warned of ing countries’ protests about newly-approved textbook screening is carried out impartially an imminent threat of terror attacks in the wake textbooks after complaints about references and neutrally, based on professional and aca- of the Islamic State’s (IS) rise in Syria, saying to disputed territory and their bitter shared demic deliberations,” Suga told a news confer- dozens of people from traditionally moderate history. The education ministry announced ence. Muslim-majority Malaysia had volunteered for on Monday that all 18 new social studies text- “Since our country’s stance on Takeshima the IS jihad. books for use in junior high schools assert and history recognition have been consistent, Amid a heated debate over the legislation, Japanese ownership of two separate island we responded to (South Korea) by saying we police said that on Sunday they arrested 17 IS- groups at the centre of disputes with China cannot accept their protest.” A Japanese edu- inspired militants who were plotting to kidnap and South Korea. New school books also fail cation ministry official confirmed that one of unspecified high-profile figures, rob banks and to use the word “massacre” when referring to the new history textbooks did not refer to the launch terror attacks. Releasing some details yes- Japan’s mass slaughter of Chinese civilians in mass killing in Nanjing, while “many others terday, national police chief Khalid Abu Bakar Nanjing in 1937, preferring the term “inci- have described it as an incident, not a mas- also said the conspirators planned to rob banks KUALA LUMPUR: In this file photo, Malaysia Police special force unit aim their weapons during dent”. sacre”. China says 300,000 civilians and sol- to raise money and to raid armed forces and an exercise against a terrorist attack at a police training camp in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. — AP The textbook dispute surfaces regularly in diers died in a spree of killing, rape and police facilities for weapons. “Seventeen people the three-way row over events in the first half destruction in the six weeks after the between the ages of 14 to 49 were arrested while ror fears are being played up to restore repressive an about-face since a poor showing in 2013 elec- of the 20th century, when Japan invaded and Japanese military entered the then-capital on they were holding a secret meeting to plan terror powers that were removed with the abolition of tions. Dozens of its critics including opposition occupied large tracts of Asia. But it has come December 13, 1937. While some foreign aca- attacks in the (Kuala Lumpur area),” Khalid said in a previous tough security law. That law was politicians, academics, activists and journalists, at a particularly sensitive time as the region demics put the number of deaths lower, no a statement. “The aim of this new terror group repeatedly used to lock up opposition politicians have been hit with sedition or other charges in prepares to mark the 70th anniversary of the mainstream respected historians dispute was to form an IS-like Islamic state in Malaysia.” and other critics for long periods, but was what political analysts view as a campaign to end of World War II, and with a rising tide of there was a massacre. In Beijing, foreign min- Khalid said the arrests brought to 92 the num- scrapped in 2012 amid public pressure for pressure and harass opponents. nationalism in China, Japan and South Korea. istry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said China ber of people detained over the past year in reform. Human Rights Watch’s deputy Asia direc- Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim was sent to Immediately after Monday’s announcement, was “gravely concerned about what is hap- Malaysia for suspected involvement in the IS tor Phil Robertson called the new legislation “a prison in February on a sodomy conviction he the South Korean foreign ministry summoned pening in Japan”. jihad in Syria. The parliamentary opposition has giant step backwards for human rights”. “Passage says was fabricated by the government. Najib’s Japanese ambassador Koro Bessho to protest “The Nanjing massacre is an atrocity com- complained that the government has shared no of this legislation raises serious concerns that administration denies the accusation. The anti- over the textbooks. “The Japanese govern- mitted by Japanese militarism during its war details on its dozens of claimed arrests or the Malaysia will return to practices of the past when terrorism legislation was passed in the early ment carried out another provocation by of aggression against China, which is based extent of the purported terror threat, and some government agents frequently used fear of indef- hours of yesterday after a marathon overnight approving school textbooks that strengthen on irrefutable evidence and conclusions were question the timing of the arrests. “It certainly is inite detention to intimidate and silence outspo- debate. The government did not immediately unfair claims over our territory,” the ministry drawn long ago on this,” she said. “Japan’s very coincidental that the arrests happened just ken critics,” he said. respond to a request for comment. Last August said in a statement. treatment and perception of relevant issues as the bill was being debated,” Surendran said. The government has faced a stern test in police said they foiled an IS-inspired plot to Tokyo and Seoul are at odds over the sov- actually show whether Japan can hold an recent elections from an opposition that accuses bomb pubs, nightclubs and a Malaysian brewery ereignty of a pair of sparsely-inhabited rocks honest, responsible and correct perception of ‘Giant step backwards’ it of corruption and abuse of power. Prime of Danish beer producer Carlsberg, arresting in waters between them, administered by history. History is history, it cannot and Opponents of the coalition that has ruled Minister Najib Razak promised in 2011 to create more than a dozen people. A string of other sus- Seoul as Dokdo but claimed as Takeshima in should not be allowed to be changed wilfully.” since independence in 1957 - but which is reel- “the greatest democracy” and launched tenta- pected IS-related arrests have been announced Japan. “This clearly shows that the Japanese Separately yesterday, Japan issued its annual ing from setbacks in recent elections-fear the ter- tive political liberalization moves, but has done since, but few details given. —AFP government seeks to inculcate the distorted “blue book” on foreign policy, saying: “The views on history and territory into the minds starting point of Japan’s coherent path as a of the young generation and tries to repeat peaceful nation is our pledge not to fight a After Yemen rescue, calls grow the wrongs it committed in the past,” it said. war again and keep peace, based on our deep In Tokyo Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide remorse over the past war.”— AFP for permanent ‘India crisis staff’ Police kill 5 prisoners NEW DELHI: India’s evacuation of more than the Gulf of Aden, from where Indian Air Force C- abroad and they send home an estimated $70 3,000 nationals from Yemen has been a triumph 17 transporters have been picking up evacuees billion a year in remittances - more than any 20 die as India police clash with smugglers of improvisation, but some officials in Prime brought out by Air India from Sanaa and flying other country receives from its overseas work- Minister Narendra Modi’s government say a slow them home. ers. One-fourth of these overseas Indians are in HYDERABAD: Authorities in southern India yesterday on loggers who attacked them the Middle East, mainly nurses, construction killed five prisoners, including one accused with axes and stones in an area of southern response to the crisis has underlined the need A second official said the challenges of evacu- of terrorism, when they tried to escape from India known for sandalwood smuggling. for a full-time staff to protect Indians abroad. On ating thousands of Indian nationals from fight- workers, drivers and hotel staff. a police van yesterday, police said. Police Deputy Inspector General M Kantha Rao Monday, India rescued more than 1,000 people ing in Iraq last year had shown that a full-time India evacuated 7,000 citizens from Iraq last were transferring the five men from said his officers had opened fire “in self- by plane and ship, the most on a single day since staff was needed to rescue overseas Indians in year, and nearly 18,000 from Libya in 2011, as Warangal city to a court in Hyderabad when defense” after challenging a group of over Saudi Arabia launched air strikes against Iran- times of crisis. “We were late in assessing the cri- fighting swept these nations. Modi, since the alleged Islamic extremist Syed 100 suspected smugglers in a remote forest allied Houthi rebels in Yemen on March 26. India sis - and this was exactly the same case during sweeping to power last year, has pressed for Viqaruddin asked that the vehicle stop in a in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh. A has been asked by 26 nations - including the the Iraq crisis,” this official said. The scramble jars higher pay for migrant workers in the Gulf and deserted area for a bathroom break. When local forestry department official told AFP United States - to help get their citizens out of with Modi’s ambition to boost India’s global cracked down on private recruiters who charge the vehicle stopped, another suspect “tried separately that the loggers used axes, sticks the conflict zone. clout, by increasing the military’s ability to proj- big up-front fees to place medical staff abroad. to snatch a rifle from a policeman and tried and stones to attack officers from a newly- Yet New Delhi struggled for several days to ect power and connecting with a large and Yet India’s embassy in the Yemeni capital Sanaa to escape,” said Anurag Sharma, the head of formed anti-smuggling task force who ramp up its rescue effort and had to hire a ship to widely dispersed diaspora that was long neg- has a full-time staff of just 10, making it tough Telangana state police. “The police first were searching the forest. make the first evacuation of its nationals from the lected by New Delhi. to track citizens there - some reluctant to leave warned them to stop and surrender, and “Our police party warned them to hand port of Aden as fighting escalated there. The Ministry of External Affairs has, however, even in the face of danger because losing their when they did not listen, police opened fire.” over the logs,” Rao said. “They were accom- Government insiders draw unfavorable compar- rebutted criticism that it was slow to warn more jobs would spell financial ruin. One officer was injured in the incident, panied by forest officials as well. But the which came two days after a gunbattle in smugglers refused to hand over the logs. isons with China’s swifter evacuation of 570 than 4,000 Indians living in Yemen to leave, say- Many of those still in Yemen are nurses from the same state left two terror suspects and a “Ultimately in self-defense the police nationals on warships that was completed on ing it issued the first of a series of advisories in Kerala, in southern India. The state’s chief minis- police constable dead. Viqaruddin, who opened fire on the smugglers and found March 31. An Indian navy patrol vessel made a January as the security situation deteriorated. ter called on the federal government on police say was part of the banned terrorist nine bodies in one position, and 11 bodies first evacuation only on the following day. “The Foreign ministry spokesman Syed Akbaruddin Monday to instruct its embassy to intervene to organization Lashkar-e-Toiba, was in cus- in another,” he said. Chinese were way ahead in the rescue process,” declined to comment on calls for a permanent get their passports back from employers so tody since his July 2010 arrest for allegedly Rao, who heads the task force set up to said one senior foreign ministry official, request- evacuation staff, saying the rescue had gone that they can go home. carrying out a series of attacks against combat the smuggling of sandalwood, said ing anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. remarkably well in difficult conditions. “It was “There is pressure growing from below,” said policemen. He was accused of killing two six or seven police officers had been India’s rescue effort got off to a false start, much more perilous, the circumstances were foreign policy expert C Raja Mohan, a distin- policemen in Hyderabad, as well as trigger- wounded during the clash in Chittoor dis- with planes commandered from Air India sitting more turbulent, and diplomatically it was a guished fellow at the Observer Research ing two bomb blasts in the southern high- trict. He said his officers had come under idle in Muscat, Oman, because it was impossible tightrope walk,” said Akbaruddin. No Indians Foundation in New Delhi, who has called for a tech city. attack in the past from loggers in the to negotiate the opening of a safe air corridor have been reported killed or wounded in the “well-staffed permanent mechanism” for forests of Chittoor, which is around 480 with the Saudis. Things only really got moving fighting in Yemen. Indians abroad. “India needs quite clearly a 20 shot dead kilometers north of the state capital with the deployment of foreign office minister mechanism (for rescue missions) that can look In another development, at least 20 Hyderabad and is known for its red sandal- people were killed when police opened fire wood trees. —Agencies VK Singh - a retired army chief - to a forward Foreign assets at the full spectrum of issues and bring the mil- operations base in Djibouti, on the other side of There are 21 million people of Indian origin itary in,” said Mohan. — Reuters NEWS WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

Visitors take photos and view various fish and shark species in a one-million gallon tank exhibit depicting the open ocean at the Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, California on Monday. More than 35,000 animals and plants representing over 550 species of fishes, invertebrates, mammals, reptiles, birds and plants are featured in nearly 200 galleries and exhibits at the aquarium. — AFP

Saudi troops track Houthi movements Erdogan in Iran amid tensions over Yemen Continued from Page 1 said Iran is open to an exchange of views on how to Continued from Page 1 herders grazed their cattle along the green sides of the wadi, but last week it was struck by missiles from a Saudi solve the region’s problem. But he added a harsh A dirt track climbed into the foothills, up a steep Apache attack helicopter, Ahmari said. One goal of the Erdogan, a conservative Islamist, denounced at the rebuke of the “treason” of unnamed Muslim govern- mountainside of crumbling rocks and broken boulders, campaign is to destroy Houthi positions near the border end of March what he called Iran’s will for “domination” ments who he said are complicit in attacks on other where scraggly trees and cactuses clung to the sharp and prevent the militia from moving equipment towards in Yemen, calling on Tehran to “withdraw all its forces Muslim nations. “Governments of some Islamic coun- folds in the terrain. The difficulty of sending an army into Saudi Arabia, its spokesman has said. from Yemen, Syria and Iraq”. Iranian Foreign Minister tries commit treason and put their money and capabili- such territory against a guerrilla movement expert in the On the road towards the border, on the sandy Tihama Mohammed Javad Zarif reacted by accusing Ankara of ties in the service of the enemy,” Khamenei said. He did arts of ambush means any wide scale offensive in this coastal plain, a truck was being loaded with bales of hay fuelling instability in the Middle East. Iranian newspa- not elaborate. mountainous region is highly unlikely, officials say pri- by men dressed in the bright headscarf and colorful pers and conservatives for their part denounced Despite the tensions, the neighboring countries vately. Land operations further east, where the highlands “futeh” sarong, held at the waist by a curved dagger, Erdogan’s “insult” and called for his visit to be cancelled. want to strengthen trade to $30 billion in 2015. Erdogan make way for desert, might be less daunting. favoured in the Yemeni highlands. The border between State news agency IRNA said Zarif is to travel to pointed out that the balance of trade was unfavourable New border defences are being built. But a score of Saudi Arabia and Yemen was only legally defined in 2000 Oman today and then Pakistan for talks on the Yemen to Turkey, since “Iran exports $10 billion and imports bulldozers and diggers constructing a fenced patrol road after decades of disagreement and the people on either conflict. Turkey and Iran are also opposed on Syria, with only $4 billion in Turkish products.” And he asked for a that was to be finished in two years will now lie still until side are closely bound by ties of common blood and cul- the war is over. Since Reuters’ last visit to Al-Mushareq in ture. Tehran the main regional ally of President Bashar Al- reduction in the price of gas purchased from Iran. “The November, the number of guards has increased and In the past six months in Jizan Province, the most pop- Assad and Ankara supporting the rebellion. Several gas we buy from Iran is the most expensive. If the price been reinforced by members of the Royal Saudi Land ulous of the three that border Yemen, Saudi authorities ministers accompanied Erdogan, who also met Iran’s drops we can buy more,” Erdogan said. “That’s what a Forces in their brown camouflage fatigues. All now wear have stopped 77,885 people trying to cross illegally from supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during his one- friendly country is.” He also called for expanding air links body armor, and their posts are buttressed by sandbags. Yemen, seizing 3,563 guns, seven hand grenades and 2.2 day visit. to medium-sized cities in Iran, and for an increase in A troupe of baboons that played nearby has retired to kilograms of explosives. The divergence of fortunes Khamenei said Iran opposes foreign intervention in electricity imports, as is already the case for several more peaceful surroundings. between Saudi and Yemeni residents of the border dis- any country including Yemen. “From our point of view, Turkish provinces. During the visit, eight documents, On that tour of the border, Reuters was also taken to a trict is even evident on the mountaintop where the stopping air strikes and foreign intervention against the particularly in the areas of transport, customs, industry frontier post across a dry wadi from the caramel-coloured Mushareq border post is located. Through their binocu- Yemeni people is the solution there,” he said. Khamenei and health were signed. -— Agencies mud buildings of Souq Al-Mashnaq, a small arms market lars, the guards watch Yemeni settlements with no elec- controlled by the Houthis, where their slogans were tricity before retiring to an air-conditioned sitting area, daubed on walls. It had appeared a sleepy place, where furnished with tassled red-and-gold cushions, with win- the cries of children could be heard in the distance and dows that look out across the frontier. — Reuters Assembly passes military service law Continued from Page 1 offensive war. He said that the Assembly should have been consulted before taking part in the operations. Speaker Kuwait fund to lend Egypt $1.5bn... After that, Kuwaiti conscripts will be required to under- Marzouq Al-Ghanem however stopped the lawmaker from Continued from Page 1 praised HH the Amir’s role in supporting joint Arab social go 30 days of military service every year for 10 years or speaking, saying the issue was not on the agenda and if he and economic programs. The total contributions of the when they reach the age of 45. wanted to raise it, he should submit a request for a debate. pursuant to the Arab summit resolutions in Cairo in Oct joint Arab financial institutes reached $1.9 billion by the Employment will be conditional for those who have Ghanem also denied that MPs have been ignored regard- 2000. Meanwhile, the 44th Arab financial institutes and end of 2014, said Assaf, adding that the portfolio of invest- completed the military service, according to the law. The ing the issue, telling Ashour that he did not attend an Arab finance ministers meeting kicked off yesterday under ment and exports rights reached $1.1 billion in the same start of the military training can however be delayed for expanded meeting with top ministers last week. Following the patronage of HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al- time period. several years for a number of cases including students until that meeting, Ghanem issued a statement emphasizing the Jaber Al-Sabah. Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Meanwhile, Director General and Chairman of the Arab they complete their studies, single sons until the age of 35 need to preserve national until and to stand behind HH the Foreign Affairs Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah Monetary Fund (AMF) Dr Abdulrahman Al-Hamidi said that and those who sustain dependents, especially handi- Amir. noted the importance of this event in light of the current the development rate in the Arab World was recorded at capped people. MPs passed a non-binding recommenda- The Assembly also asked the health and labor commit- economic challenges in the region. Arab states must coop- 0.3 percent in 2015, which is a slow rate, preventing the tion to exempt Kuwaitis employed in the private sector tee to add a report to a draft law calling for the establish- erate in following different policies to achieve economic region from lowering the rates of poverty and unemploy- from military service in order to encourage citizens to seek ment of a company to recruit domestic helpers from and social development, while also creating a joint Arab ment. Arab states need a development rate of five to six employment away from the overcrowded government. abroad after the cost of the process has increased sharply. road map, he said. percent in order to overcome their economic issues, he not- The Assembly also unanimously passed an amendment MPs insisted that they will debate the draft law along with Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled noted Kuwait’s role in support- ed. He also stressed the importance of supporting small to the 2010 power stations law to allow the government to another bill covering the rights and obligations of maids in ing Arab cooperation, mainly the establishment of KFAED projects, develop abilities and improve job markets build needed power and water desalination plants. Under Kuwait. The lawmakers asked the concerned committee to in 1961, as the first Arab development organization to fund The agenda of the Arab financial institutions’ meeting the previous law, the government was not allowed to build complete the report before the next session on April 21. projects in developing countries. Moreover, he mentioned focused on financial reports in 2014 as well as approving the power stations except through forming public share- During the session, a number of MPs criticized the govern- the economic challenges Arab countries faced in the past the financial closure for the fiscal year which ended on Dec holding companies - each allowed to build small 500 MW ment for selling a number of companies in which it holds a two decades, which posed the need for cooperation to 31. The meeting will follow up resolutions at the previous plants. New Electricity and Water Minister Ahmad Al-Jassar majority stake. overcome the obstacles. Arabs had then executed joint Arab economic summit in Riyadh. The sixth annual Arab thanked the Assembly for providing much needed flexibili- MPs said the agriculture produce company was sold at a efforts to adopt development programs, including the first finance ministers’ council meeting focused on choosing the ty to build power stations. very cheap price of just KD 8.5 million while it should be Arab Economic and Social Development Summit held in council’s chairman and vice chairman, a report from AMF, During the session, Shiite MP Saleh Ashour said that worth at least KD 25-30 million. A discussion on the issue Kuwait in 2009, he said. He also noted the second summit and an IMF paper on improving efficiency at Arab tax insti- Kuwait’s participation in the Saudi-led airstrikes on Shiite was delayed for today for the finance minister to be pres- held in Riyadh in 2012 came out with the decision to tutions. The ministerial meeting included discussions on increase the capital of Arab financial institutes. coordinating Arab actions and efforts at IMF and the World Houthi rebels in Yemen is a violation of the Kuwaiti consti- ent. The Assembly also rejected the resignation of MP Saudi Minister of Finance Ibrahim Abdulaziz Al-Assaf Bank. — Agencies tution which prevents HH the Amir from declaring an Nabeel Al-Fadhl from the public utilities committee. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 ANALYSIS

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Issues Nuke deal tough, but could be circumvented

By George Jahn

n selling the Iran nuclear deal to Congress and other skep- tics, President Barack Obama said it is built on “unprecedent- Ied verification,” telling his radio audience over the weekend: “If Iran cheats, the world will know it”. Only time will tell if Obama is right. While Iran could try to push back or cover up, it certainly has little incentive for deceit. Its negotiators returned home to jubilant crowds hailing the prospect of an end to the crippling economic sanctions that forced Iran to the negotiat- ing table in the first place. On Tuesday, even the chief of Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guard joined in praising their efforts. Tehran thus is unlikely to risk the prospect of having the sanctions re-imposed - the penalty for cheating. More likely, Iran will push for every loophole any agreement provides but Marginalization, mismanagement provoked massacre honor it, and wait out the 10 years of strict restrictions any deal will impose. Iran can afford to bide its time - it resisted efforts to By Aude Genet tion of the Muslims in Kenya”. Attacks cited include Kenya’s coastal region-lacks basic services such as paved roads, demolish its nuclear infrastructure, leaving it intact. That allows 1984 Wagalla massacre, when Kenyan troops trying to put schools and hospitals,” Adow wrote in an analysis following it to quickly expand to dimensions dwarfing its present capaci- enya’s government says the university massacre of down local conflict killed an unknown number of people - the Garissa attack. “Resentment towards the government is ties, once constraints are lifted. Still, hoping that Iran will toe the 148 people was a “surprise” that could happen any- officially less than a hundred, while others claims up to high and radicals are able to exploit these factors. Chronic line isn’t enough. Distrust about its intentions will persist long Kwhere: but experts say decades of marginalization 5,000 people. youth unemployment, for example, makes Al-Shabab’s after the fleeting good vibes generated around the negotiating coupled with government failings meant the attack was “Kenyan security forces have a deeply troubling record in promise of some income attractive.” table by last week’s preliminary deal, designed to cap nuclear hardly unexpected. The attack on the university in the northeast Kenya since the 1960s: Killings, unlawful deten- A $215,000 bounty has been offered for alleged Shebab activities that Tehran could use to make a bomb. That has left northeastern town of Garissa last Thursday was Kenya’s tion, torture, rape and sexual violence,” said Leslie Lefkow commander Mohamed Mohamud, a former Kenyan teacher the United States and its negotiating partners seeking tight deadliest since the 1998 bombing of the US embassy in from Human Rights Watch. “Punishment of entire communi- said to be the mastermind behind the attack and believed controls against potential Iranian deceit. The commitments Nairobi, and the bloodiest ever by Somalia’s Al-Qaeda-affili- ties has been the routine response to insecurity.” There has to now be in Somalia. Authorities on Sunday named one of Tehran has signed on to certainly go further than ever before to ated Shabab militants. been growing criticism in the media that critical intelli- the four gunmen killed as a fellow Kenyan, highlighting the ensure that if it does try to clandestinely circumvent restrictions But experts say the anger that drove the gunmen has a gence warnings were missed, while Western nations have Shabab’s ability to recruit within the country. The Shabab on its nuclear program, it will not get away with it. long and dark history in an impoverished region - and they issued a string of foreign travel warnings. Hours before the warned of a “long, gruesome war” unless Kenya withdrew But as negotiators try to turn a sketchy understanding into a warn that without concerted action, the attacks won’t stop. attack in Garissa began, President Uhuru Kenyatta said its troops from Somalia, where troops crossed the long and comprehensive deal by June 30, Tehran’s nuclear history cannot Kenya’s ethnic Somali northeastern region - where Garissa is Kenya “is as safe as any country in the world”. porous border in 2011 to fight the Islamists. be ignored. Iranian atomic activities that the US and its five one of the main towns - is also claimed by the Shahab as “There is no sure-fire prevention against terrorist But the troops inside Somalia - where Kenya on Monday negotiating partners are now trying to restrict were born of part of Somalia itself. The region has long been lawless and attacks,” said Abdullahi Boru Halakhe, an academic and launched fresh airstrikes on Shabab bases - appear to have secrecy. Iran has repeatedly played for time since they were was the scene of the brutal secessionist 1963-1967 “Shifta expert on the region. “But the scale of the Garissa attack, done little to help security on the Kenyan side of the fron- revealed, blocking probes while drawing out negotiations war”. “Since independence, Kenya was built on the principle the prior warning and the regularity with which these tier. Kenyatta himself, speaking to the nation after the meant to curb the programs - and using the weeks, months or of division of the country,” said Benoit Hazard, from France’s attacks have been occurring, points to systemic state failure attacks, warned that the terrorist masterminds were inside years won to expand nuclear activities instead. National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS). - and the buck stops with the president,” he told AFP. Kenya, not Somalia. “The planners and financiers of this bru- That means that Iran again could turn to delaying tactics to tality are deeply embedded in our communities”, he said, blunt sleuthing attempts by the U.N’s International Atomic ‘Punishment of Communities’ Terrorist Kingpins ‘Embedded’ in Kenya warning that “radicalization is happening openly” in Islamic Energy Agency - even though on paper at least, Iran appears to Interior Minister Joseph Nkaissery has said the university Al-Jazeera journalist Mohammed Adow, a Kenyan and an madrassa schools by “rogue” preachers. Corruption and have little wiggle room. The IAEA already has a presence in Iran. attack was “one of those incidents which can surprise any ethnic Somali, describes the challenges his home region stolen funds have weakened security efforts, Halakhe said, Yet it has been allowed to monitor only Iran’s declared nuclear country”. But a Shabab statement on Friday - warning faces: Poverty, high youth unemployment, rapid population warning there was an urgent need to “clearly lay out the programs under agreements linked to Tehran’s ratification of Kenyans of further bloodshed - said the gunmen carried out growth and general insecurity. “As a result of decades of Somalia exit plan” and to “embark on serious counter-terror- the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. That is to change under the Garissa attack in revenge for the “systematic persecu- marginalization, northeastern Kenya - as well as parts of the ism effort anchored in human rights framework”. —AFP any June deal.

Additional Protocol Iran left the negotiating table in Lausanne, Switzerland, on Campaign reflects UK’s global retreat Thursday with a commitment to implement the Additional Protocol, IAEA’s most potent monitoring instrument. In effect in nearly 150 countries, that agreement is meant to allow IAEA By Andrew Osborn is about character. It is about who we are and “strikingly modest.” Ahead of the election, neither Cameron nor the experts nearly unfettered access - normally within a day or two where we’re going as a nation,” said Blair, a fervent On Ukraine, Cameron also took a backseat, Labour Party is ready to pledge that will continue. - to any site within those nations that the agency suspects may ritain’s membership of the European Union believer in liberal interventionism, who led Britain leaving his French and German counterparts to One veteran Washington hawk says London’s be used for secret nuclear work. hangs on the outcome of a knife-edge into a string of overseas military engagements negotiate with Vladimir Putin. When asked by austerity-driven defence cuts are emboldening For Washington, lessons learned from Iran’s nuclear past Belection in four weeks’ time, but the issue from 1997 to 2007. “A decision to exit Europe one worried lawmaker where this left Britain’s “so- Western foes from Moscow to Beijing and the made such an agreement indispensable as part of any deal. Iran and that of the country’s wider global role have would say a lot about us and none of it good: that, called leading role in Europe”, Cameron urged Middle East. “Our mutual adversaries immediately kept its nuclear program secret until intelligence agencies and a been largely absent from a campaign narrowly with all the challenges of the world crowding in parliament’s liaison committee earlier this year assume, all too accurately, that a weakened dissident group unveiled it more than a decade ago. And focused on domestic worries. It’s not unusual for upon us, demanding strong and clear leadership, not to fret. “We should not be too precious about Britain reflects a weakened America, and they are although Tehran denies past, present or future interest in the British elections to be dominated by schools, hos- instead of saying ‘here’s where the world should not being involved in every different set of nego- emboldened,” John Bolton, who served as US bomb, the IAEA believes it may have worked secretly on pitals and taxes, but foreign policy debate has go’, we say ‘count us out’,” the Labour politician tiations,” he said. “There is no point endlessly ambassador to the United Nations under nuclear arms - suspicions shared by the United States and other rarely been so slight as before the May 7 vote. said in a speech. obsessing about whether you are in the room.” President George W Bush, wrote in the Daily countries, which shared relevant intelligence with the agency. Many diplomats say this reflects Britain’s shuffle Traumatised by the heavy cost in blood and Telegraph newspaper. Iran’s willingness to hew to terms imposed by the Additional from the global stage and a self-inflicted down- Global Punch treasure of Blair’s wars of choice supporting Insiders complain that the British Foreign Protocol is by no means a given. grading of its military and diplomatic muscle. Britain, which under Margaret Thatcher sent a Washington in Afghanistan and Iraq, neither of Office, housed in a grand building in central While accepting an Additional Protocol between 2003 and “While much of the world seems to be going flotilla to the South Atlantic in 1982 to recapture which was a military success, Britons’ appetite to London from which one fifth of humanity was 2006, Iran often balked at the kind of intrusive inspections the to hell in a hand basket, there has been little talk the tiny Falkland Islands seized by Argentina, still use force has waned. General Nicholas Hougton, administered less than a century ago, is a shadow agreement was supposed to guarantee. The US State about Britain’s international role and responsibili- packs a global punch. It has the biggest defence the head of the armed forces, says the country of its former self. Under Cameron, its budget has Department says Tehran only “implemented it provisionally and ties,” Chris Patten, Britain’s last governor of Hong budget in the EU, a seat on the UN Security that helped defeat Hitler and Napoleon has been cut by around one sixth in real terms since selectively”. Washington hopes to avoid a repeat through a “dis- Kong, said in a Project Syndicate commentary. Council and is the world’s sixth biggest economy. become alarmingly nervous about deploying 2010, and many residual resources have been pute resolution process” that it could turn to if it wants a special “The UK was once famous for punching above its It took part in 2011 air strikes against Libya to military force. “I worry that as a nation we could diverted towards trade promotion rather than inspection of any site at any time. If cheating by Iran is revealed, weight in global affairs, but perhaps the country topple Muammar Gaddafi and only ended its have started to lose some of our courageous classic diplomacy. The change has not gone the preliminary deal allows a “snap-back” of sanctions that were no longer really matters much - if only because it combat role in Afghanistan last year. It also has instinct: the instinct to take risk and to make sac- unnoticed by allies and foes. A long list of US previously eased to reward Tehran for good behavior. does not want to matter,” the former one of the biggest foreign aid budgets and was rifice both for our own security and the common politicians and military commanders from But Iran may push back on any dispute. And that could give Conservative Party chairman and European at the heart of international efforts to combat good,” Houghton said in December. US President Barack Obama downwards have it plenty of potential cover-up time. Whether it’s IAEA’s 35-nation Commissioner said. Ebola. But some diplomats, speaking on condi- Britain’s debt woes - a hangover from the urged Britain to stay in the EU and to spend more board or a specially created UN panel, any arbiter is bound to be The only full TV debate of the campaign last tion of anonymity, date London’s retreat from the 2008 global financial crisis - have played a role. on defence. And in Europe, even friends say they composed of multiple countries, including some with more Thursday, a day of world drama, underscored a global stage to August 2013 when Cameron Under pressure to cut a large deficit, Cameron have grown weary of Cameron’s attempts to sympathy for Iran than harbored by the United States and its pivot towards the parochial. Iran had just sealed failed to win parliament’s backing for air strikes in has taken an axe to state spending. As a result, score political points at home by fabricating Western allies. That means that consultations leading to any rul- an initial nuclear deal with six world powers Syria. “Things have never been quite the same the armed forces are being shrunk by around a minor rows or by turning discussion of any EU ing that special inspections are necessary could take, days, including Britain; Yemen, a former British colony, since,” said one. Britain did join the US-led effort sixth, a move that will leave the army with 82,000 issue, from Greece’s debts to France’s economy, to weeks, even months - with Tehran fighting it all the way. And was engulfed in fierce fighting; and in Kenya, to bomb Islamic State targets in Iraq, but only soldiers in 2018, its smallest size since the domestic advantage. “Whatever happened to while US intelligence agencies will be on sharpened lookout for another former possession, Islamist militants had after France piled in. London’s contribution - esti- Napoleonic Wars. Britain has long boasted of British foreign policy?” lamented one EU diplo- cheating, they’re not infallible. The intelligence community was slaughtered over 100 people. None of those mated to average just one air strike per day - is, in how, unlike most NATO members, it spent 2 per- mat recently. “They’re missing in action every- wrong in assessing that Iraq had significant weapons of mass events rated a single mention in the debate, the words of parliament’s defence committee cent of Gross Domestic Product on defence. where.” —Reuters destruction. As well, a 2007 National Intelligence Estimate con- which featured Conservative Prime Minister cluding that Iran apparently halted nuclear weapons work in David Cameron and six other party leaders. 2003 has since been contradicted by the IAEA, as well as US Instead, the participants discussed Britain’s allies including Britain and Germany. All say Tehran may have debts, its stretched public health service and continued such activities past that date. —AP immigration. The only words on foreign policy were about whether there were too many for- eigners in Britain and whether leaving the EU would make things better. How many Syrians All articles appearing on these should be let in, how many foreigners are treated free for HIV, and, briefly, whither Britain’s mem- pages are the personal opinion of bership of the EU ahead a possible referendum the writers. Kuwait Times takes no on the subject in 2017. responsibility for views expressed Cameron has promised to renegotiate Britain’s therein. Kuwait Times invites read- EU ties if re-elected, before holding an in-out vote. His rival, Labour Party leader Ed Miliband, has said ers to voice their opinions. Please he won’t offer a referendum unless there is a send submissions via email to: opin- major new transfer of powers to the EU. That means the election will decide whether or not [email protected] or via snail (From left) Leader of the Green Party Natalie Bennett, British Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Britain votes on its EU membership, something it mail to PO Box 1301 Safat, Kuwait. last did in 1975. Former Prime Minister Tony Blair, Democratic Party Nick Clegg, Leader of the United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP) Nigel Farage, Leader of the The editor reserves the right to edit channelling fears inside Britain’s foreign policy opposition Labour Party Ed Miliband, Leader of Plaid Cymru Leanne Wood, Leader of the Scottish National Party any submission as necessary. establishment, said yesterday the ballot was a (SNP) Nicola Sturgeon and British Prime Minister and Conservative party leader David Cameron wait for the start of chance to show London wouldn’t turn in itself. “It the ‘ITV Leaders’ Debate’ at ITV studios in Salford, northwest England on April 2, 2015. —AFP WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 SPORTS

Dyke returns gift watch No worry about Neymar Bale doubtful for Real clash LONDON: After nearly 10 months of legal wrangling, English FA chairman BARCELONA: Barcelona coach Luis Enrique is not concerned by MADRID: Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale has a foot problem and could Greg Dyke has returned a 16,000-pound ($23,814) watch to FIFA and no Neymar’s recent goal drought and is confident the Brazil forward will miss today’s La Liga game at Rayo Vallecano when Real will look to keep up longer faces disciplinary action for keeping it. soon return to top form as Barca continue their bid to repeat 2009’s the pressure on leaders Barcelona, coach Carlo Ancelotti said yesterday. Dyke was one of 65 international officials who received the Parmigiani historic treble. After an impressive first half of the season, Neymar has Bale’s absence, if confirmed, would allow Ancelotti to put off having to watches as presents from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) before last year’s World Cup. gone off the boil since the turn of the year and has not scored for the make a tough choice between James Rodriguez or Isco in midfield along- He claimed he was unaware of its value, stored it in a bag at home and leaders in La Liga since hitting the opener in a 5-0 win at home to side Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. never used it, but when he was told keeping it broke FIFA’s ethics rules he Levante on Feb. 15. The 23-year-old looked particularly out of sorts in James played for the first time after a two-month injury layoff in offered to donate it to the FA’s charity partner Breast Cancer Care as part of a Sunday’s 1-0 win at Celta Vigo and spent much of the game locked in Sunday’s 9-1 drubbing of Granada and Isco is back from a one-match sus- fundraising initiative. He has now sent it back, however. “Greg an unseemly battle with Celta fullback Hugo Mallo. pension, meaning Ancelotti could use both playmakers in his starting line- Dyke has returned the CBF Parmigiani watch,” the adjudica- “I am not worried at all,” Luis Enrique told a news conference pre- up, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema up front. tory chamber of FIFA’s Ethics Committee said in a state- viewing today’s La Liga match at home to Almeria. “We are talking “We have had a problem with Bale, who has a knock on ment yesterday. about an outstanding player, a top player,” added the former Barca the left foot,” Ancelotti told a news conference. “Both (James “As a consequence, the adjudicatory chamber has and Spain midfielder, who is enjoying a successful first term in charge and Isco) could play because they have played together decided to close the proceedings in respect of a possible at the Nou Camp. many times,” added the Italian. “It is not a debate about Isco breach of the FIFA Code of Ethics.” Dyke told football writ- “And from what I see in training I am sure his scoring streak will or James but a debate about a squad in very good shape. ers last month he had no need for the watch. soon return and he will be back on top form. “Now he is helping us in “It is very hard to choose between players of such quality “It has been in a bag in my study at home ever since I got back from the a less spectacular way, less visible for you, but he gives the team a lot because they are two complete players who can play in various World Cup. of things that I consider important.” Barca can stretch their lead over situations on the pitch. “I have the good fortune to have both of You get a lot of present bags on offi- second-placed Real Madrid to seven points with a win against them, what a great problem to have.” Real could find them- cial visits and to be honest, I hardly Almeria, applying more pressure on Real whose game at Madrid selves seven points adrift of Barca when they take to the ever look at any of them.” — Reuters neighbors Rayo Vallecano kicks off two hours later. —Reuters pitch at Rayo’s stadium in the Madrid suburbs. —Reuters Bolt has no need to worry about Gatlin

KINGSTON: Usain Bolt is happy with his so I’m working on it.”Mills said Bolt had condition in the leadup to August’s world stepped up his preparation since running championships and will not be denied 46.37 seconds over 400m on March 14 in more sprint gold by American Justin Gatlin, Kingston. “He has made significant strides according to his coach Glen Mills. since the last time you saw him (in compe- “We take all competitors with a level of tition),” he said. “He’s down to compete in seriousness and I don’t see Gatlin as a joke, Brazil in another two weeks and he’s get- but the truth of the matter is Usain at his ting into the kind of competitive shape that best doesn’t have much to worry about,” he’ll be able to perform to the kind of levels Mills told Reuters in an interview. Jamaican that we know he’s capable of doing. Bolt will bid for a third 100 metres gold and Bolt, who will compete on wildcard a fourth 200m gold in succession at the entries in Beijing, was also satisfied with his Aug. 22-30 meeting in Beijing. condition as he gears up for his April 19 In Bolt’s absence, Gatlin dominated the race in Rio de Janeiro, the host city for next Diamond League last season, ending the year’s summer Olympics where he will be year as world leader in the 100 and 200m expected to defend his titles. with personal best times of 9.77 and 19.68 His schedule also includes Diamond seconds respectively. League meetings in New York, Paris and “It’s good for the sport and creates the Lausanne before Beijing. “I’m happy with kind of interest, but those kinds of things where I’m at, I’m doing a lot of work leading don’t affect us in any way because Usain up to this first run in Brazil ... that’s the and myself knows what we can get him to focus right and that’s what we’re working do when he’s fully fit and ready and that’s towards,” said Bolt, who posted a picture of what we’re working to do,” said Mills, who himself training on Easter Monday on his has guided Bolt since 2005. social media accounts. “When we are ready and he’s peaked Bolt could also appear at Jamaica’s then let’s hear the shout, ‘I’m sure it will be national trials between June 25 and 28 in Usain Bolt!’” The 100 and 200m world Kingston. “He didn’t compete that much record holder, Bolt won both events at the last year, he did very little, and in preparing 2008 and 2012 Olympics. for the world championships we’re trying Having taken time off last year, the 28- to get him a fair amount of competition in year-old told Reuters he was looking to set pointing him in that direction,” Mills said. quick times this season. “I always try to wait “We have a number of international until I run my first race (to set targets), but races lined up before the trials and his for me the aim is always to go to the cham- progress in those meets will determine pionship and to defend my titles,” he said. whether or not he needs to run the trials, “But I want to run really fast this season but it’s not off the table.” — Reuters 2004 Olympic hurdles champion Liu retires

BEIJING: Former Olympic champion In his statement, Liu said he hoped to hurdler Liu Xiang confirmed his retire- recover after London, but “my foot told ment yesterday, citing age and injuries 2 me no again and again, and there was no 1/2 years after his last race. way it was going to be able to handle The 31-year-old Liu wrote in a lengthy intense training and competition. statement on his microblog titled “My “I hate my foot, I love my track and my Track, My Hurdle” that he was “truly hurdle so much, and if I hadn’t injured unwell and old and can no longer run my foot ... but then there are no ‘ifs’ in and jump with you.” this world, I injured myself, and can only “Although it’s sad, although it’s accept it silently.” painful, I really have no other choice,” Liu Over his career, he became one of wrote. Liu became the first Chinese man China’s highest-earning sports stars, join- NEW YORK: Brooklyn Nets center Brook Lopez (11) takes aim for the basket around his twin brother, Portland Trail Blazers center Robin Lopez to win Olympic gold in athletics at the ing the elite ranks of former NBA star Yao (42) in the second half of an NBA basketball game. — AP 2004 Athens Games in the 110-meter Ming and tennis champion Li Na. Liu’s hurdles, in a then-world record time. He plans to retire had been long expected, set another world record in 2005, and and were reported by a Shanghai news- Nets defeat Blazers won at the world championships in 2007. paper last week. The Shanghai native hasn’t competed Regarding his future, Liu, who began since withdrawing at the London hurdling at age 13, said he planned to NEW YORK: Brook Lopez dominated twin Cuba and the United States. American colleges and YMCA gymnasiums. Olympics in 2012 after rupturing his “begin a new journey” by completing his brother Robin with 32 points and nine Mutombo, a Congolese-American elected The NBA said two players and one coach Achilles tendon. education, and hoped to contribute to rebounds as the Brooklyn Nets beat the to the U.S. Basketball Hall of Fame on from Cuba will be invited for the first time to He pulled out of the 2008 Beijing Chinese sports development, and short-handed Portland Trail Blazers 106-96 Monday, said “this visit to Cuba will be a fan- participate in an upcoming camp of Games with a similar injury, and years of increase China’s international influence on Monday in the only game on the NBA tastic opportunity to teach the values of our Basketball without Borders, a global NBA treatment have apparently failed to fix in the athletics world. schedule. The Trail Blazers left LaMarcus game and learn from one another.” The and FIBA basketball development and com- the problem. Liu had already announced he did not Aldridge and others home for the makeup of United States and Cuba agreed on Dec. 17 to munity relations outreach program. Given his experiences at the Beijing expect to compete at the world champi- a game that was postponed by bad weather restore diplomatic ties after more than a half “To have both the NBA and FIBA collabo- and London Games, Chinese sports offi- onships in Beijing in August, although he on Jan. 26 and couldn’t stop Brook Lopez, century of tensions, and President Barack rate on youth instruction and the develop- cials said Liu would not return to compe- said he hoped to “take part in the event who shot 15 for 25 from the field. Deron Obama called for an end to a long-time U.S. ment of the game in our country is magnifi- tition before making a full recovery. in another role.” Last month, he appeared Williams added 24 points and 10 assists for economic embargo. FIBA President Horacio cent,” Cuban Basketball Federation President However, Achilles injuries are difficult to at a promotional event for the competi- the Nets, who closed in on a playoff spot in Muratore said in a statement it was Ruperto Herrera said in a statement. Cuba heal, and many sprinters never return to tion but left without speaking to the the Eastern Conference by winning for the “extremely gratifying” to see Cuba hosting allows its some of its top athletes to play in their previous best. media. — AP ninth time in 11 games. They are in seventh the camp. professional leagues abroad as long as place in the standings, one game ahead of Cuba’s men’s national basketball team has Cuban sports officials retain the right to Boston and two games up on Miami and participated in six Olympics, winning the recall those players for international events Indiana. bronze medal at the 1972 Games in Munich. or domestic competition. But so far that sys- Damian Lillard scored 36 points for the The NBA said Cubans have played basket- tem has not been tested in U.S. sports Trail Blazers, who had won two in a row. ball since 1906, when the game was intro- because of restrictions imposed by the Meyers Leonard had 17 points and 15 duced after being learned in North American embargo. —Reuters rebounds, while Robin Lopez had just eight points and seven boards. Besides Aldridge, Portland was without forward Nicolas Batum and backup center Chris Kaman. NBA results/standings Meanwhile, the National Basketball Association, along with basketball’s interna- Brooklyn 106, Portland 96. tional governing body, announced plans on Eastern Conference Western Conference Monday to host a developmental camp for Atlantic Division Northwest Division male and female players in Cuba, in the first Portland 50 27 .649 - such initiative by a US pro sports league W L PCT GB Toronto 45 32 .584 - Oklahoma City 42 35 .545 8 since the United States and the communist- Brooklyn 36 41 .468 9 Utah 35 42 .455 15 ruled island embarked on a diplomatic thaw Boston 35 42 .455 10 Denver 28 49 .364 22 in December. Philadelphia 18 60 .231 27.5 Minnesota 16 60 .211 33.5 Retired NBA stand-outs Steve Nash and NY Knicks 15 62 .195 30 Pacific Division Dikembe Mutombo and former WNBA star Central Division Golden State 63 14 .818 - Ticha Penicheiro will lead the camp, set for Cleveland 50 27 .649 - LA Clippers 52 26 .667 11.5 April 23-26 in Havana. Chicago 46 31 .597 4 Phoenix 39 38 .506 24 The NBA will also join with the Milwaukee 38 39 .494 12 Sacramento 26 50 .342 36.5 International Basketball Federation (FIBA) to Indiana 34 43 .442 16 LA Lakers 20 56 .263 42.5 refurbish three basketball courts and host Detroit 30 47 .390 20 youth basketball clinics at two Havana loca- Southeast Division Southwest Division tions. Atlanta 57 19 .750 - Houston 53 24 .688 - Cuba has a long history of basketball and Washington 44 33 .571 13.5 Memphis 52 25 .675 1 has participated four world championships, Miami 34 43 .442 23.5 San Antonio 51 26 .662 2 but its players’ links to the NBA have been Charlotte 33 43 .434 24 Dallas 46 31 .597 7 Orlando 24 53 .312 33.5 New Orleans 41 35 .539 11.5 Liu Xiang, Olympic gold medalist. limited by a 50-year standoff between the WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 SPORTS Dodgers win opener over Padres

LOS ANGELES: Jimmy Rollins hit a tiebreak- ing, three-run homer in the eighth inning, ral- lying the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 6-3 victory over the San Diego Padres in the season open- er Monday. Rollins took a curtain call for his drive off Shawn Kelley (0-1). Rollins and Howie Kendrick joined the team in the offseason to improve the Dodgersí infield defense, but their offen- sive prowess delivered the victory. Kendrickís RBI double with two outs in the seventh tied it at 3. Rollins went 2 for 4. Clayton Kershaw, the reigning National League Most Valuable Player and Cy Young Award winner, struck out nine, but the team with MLBís highest payroll of $270 million trailed twice before Kendrick and Rollins baled them out. Kershaw gave up three runs and six hits in six innings. Joel Peralta (1-0) got the vic- tory and Chris Hatcher earned his first save. San Diegoís Matt Kemp went 2 for 4 with three RBIs against his former team.

ATHLETICS 8, RANGERS 0 Sonny Gray carried a no-hit bid into the eighth inning before Ryan Rua broke it up with a leadoff single, and Oakland ended its record 10-game losing streak on opening day by beating Texas. Trying to join Bob Feller (1940) as the only pitchers to throw a no-hitter on opening day, Gray (1-0) dazzled through seven innings and allowed just two baserunners before Ruaís sharp grounder to right field. Ben Zobrist backed Grayís eight-inning gem with a two- run homer in the first and also had a double in his Oakland debut. Stephen Vogt added a three-run shot. New designated hitter Billy Butler hit an RBI double as the Aís won their opener for the first time since beating Texas on April 5, 2004. Oaklandís 10-game skid on opening day was the longest in MLB history. Evan Scribner worked a perfect ninth to finish the one-hitter. Yovani Gallardo (0-1) was chased after four innings in a forgettable Rangers debut.

GIANTS 5, DIAMONDBACKS 4 Madison Bumgarner pitched seven strong innings as San Francisco opened defense of its LOS ANGELES: Dodgers’ Adrian Gonzalez (left) is forced out at second by San Diego Padres shortstop Clint Barmes on a single by Howie Kendrick during the fifth inning of an opening third World Series title in five years with a win day baseball game. — AP over Arizona. Bumgarner (1-0) was the World Series Most home run and Robinson Cano had an RBI sin- the youngest opening-day starter in Blue Jays Rios hit a three-run homer in his Kansas City Watson (0-1), ending a 2-all tie. Valuable Player last year and was sharp to start gle. Carson Smith struck out Trout with two history, held the Yankees hitless until Brian debut against Chicago. Johnny Cueto, the Redsí 20-game winner in the 2015 season, allowing a run on six hits. runners on to end the eighth, and Fernando McCann singled with two outs in the fourth. Ventura (1-0) was replaced by Kelvin the final year of a contract, opened his uncer- The Giants lost power-hitting Pablo Rodney closed for a save. Hutchison (1-0) allowed three hits, including Herrera in the seventh after crumpling to the tain season with another dominating perform- Sandoval during the offseason and were with- Brett Gardnerís homer. Ex-Yankee Russell ground following a strike to Adam LaRoche. ance against the Pirates. He fanned 10 batters out injured right fielder Hunter Pence, but RED SOX 8, PHILLIES 0 Martin hit a two-run single in a five-run third Ventura will be evaluated later this week, but in seven innings before turning a 2-0 lead over made up for it by stringing together 10 hits in Boston newcomer Hanley Ramirez and against Tanaka (0-1). Devon Travis homered Royals trainers said it is not believed to be seri- to a bullpen that was a big problem last sea- four-plus innings against Josh Collmenter (0- Dustin Pedroia each hit two home runs, Clay later for his first career hit. ous. Rios, who had three hits, homered in a son. Andrew McCutchen tied it with a two-run 2). Angel Pagan had a pair of run-scoring sin- Buchholz threw three-hit ball over seven five-run seventh with Kendrys Morales and shot off newcomer Kevin Gregg. Jumbo Diaz gles and Brandon Crawford hit a two-run dou- innings and the Red Sox beat Philadelphia in METS 3, NATIONALS 1 Alex Gordon aboard. Gordon stroked a two- (1-0) got the final out in the eighth. Jay Bruce ble for the Giants. an interleague opener. Max Scherzer took a no-hitter into the sixth run single in the inning. Jose Abreu homered hit a solo homer, and Francisco Liriano balked Diamondbacks pinch-hitter Jake Lamb hit a Buchholz (1-0) struck out nine and inning of his Washington debut but was three-run double off Sergio Romo in the pitched like the player who went 12-1 in 2013. unable to overcome two costly errors by short- eighth, but Jeremy Affeldt stranded two run- Ramirez made quite an impression in his first stop Ian Desmond that aided New York. ners to end the inning. Santiago Casilla game since the free agent signed an $88 mil- Bartolo Colon pitched six clean innings for worked a perfect ninth for the save. lion, four-year contract. He hit a solo homer in the Mets, giving up only Bryce Harperís third the fifth and a grand slam off Jake Diekman in opening-day homer. Lucas Duda hit a two-run MARINERS 4, ANGELS 1 the ninth. single with two outs in the sixth, putting New Felix Hernandez struck out 10 and allowed Cole Hamels (0-1) gave up five hits in five York ahead with its first hit of the year. At 41, only two hits over seven innings, and Seth innings, striking out six. He allowed four Colon (1-0) was the oldest opening-day starter Smith had three extra-base hits and two RBIs homers for the second time in his career. in Mets history - and in the majors since 2006. in his Seattle debut against Los Angeles. Mookie Betts also homered for Boston. He struck out eight and allowed only three Hernandez (1-0) improved to 6-0 in open- hits. Scherzer (0-1), making the first start of his ing-day starts, only two of them at home. He BLUE JAYS 6, YANKEES 1 $210 million contract, retired 17 in a row dur- lifted the Mariners to their ninth straight win Edwin Encarnacion hit a two-run homer off ing one stretch and gave up four hits in 7 2-3 on opening day. Masahiro Tanaka, and Toronto beat New York innings. All three runs off him were unearned. Mike Trout homered in the first inning and in Alex Rodriguezís return to MLB. Four relievers followed Colon, with 37-year- Erick Aybar singled leading off the fifth. That Without retired Derek Jeter in the lineup, old Buddy Carlyle getting two outs for his first was all the Angels could do against an opening-day crowd at Yankee Stadium career save. New York closer Jenrry Mejia was Hernandez. reserved its biggest cheers for Rodriguez in his unavailable due to a tight elbow. Acquired in an offseason trade with San first game back from a year-long drug suspen- Diego, Smith doubled twice and lined a two- sion. Batting seventh, his lowest spot in a reg- TIGERS 4, TWINS 0 out RBI triple. All three hits came off Jered ular-season game since 1996, he singled, David Price left no doubt about his worthi- Weaver (0-1). Dustin Ackley added a solo walked and lined out. Drew Hutchison, at 24 ness as Detroitís opening day starter, coming SEATTLE: Los Angeles Angels right fielder Kole Calhoun dives for but can’t get to a triple within one out of a shutout against by Seattle Mariners’ Seth Smith in the fourth inning of a baseball game. — AP Minnesota. Price (1-0) retired his first 13 batters and Chicago. Jeff Samardzija (0-1) yielded five runs home a run in his first game since Pittsburgh allowed five hits before being pulled with two and six hits in six-plus innings in his White Sox gave him the biggest free-agent contract in on in the ninth. Joe Nathan struck out Torii debut. franchise history - three years, $39 million. Hunter for the save. Liriano allowed two hits in seven innings. The Twins lost in their first game under BRAVES 2, MARLINS 1 new manager Paul Molitor. JD Martinez and Two Atlanta relievers combined to escape a ASTROS 2, INDIANS 0 Alex Avila homered off Phil Hughes (0-1), and bases-loaded, none-out jam in the seventh Dallas Keuchel and two relievers combined Yoenis Cespedes tripled and scored in his inning, and new closer Jason Grilli pitched a on a three-hitter, and Houston beat Cleveland Detroit debut. Cespedes also reached above perfect ninth to help the Braves beat Miami. after being held hitless by American League the wall in left to catch Kurt Suzukiís drive in Braves newcomer Nick Markakis drove in Cy Young Award winner Corey Kluber for near- the third. both of their runs. Julio Teheran (1-0) allowed ly six innings. eight hits but only one run in six-plus innings. George Springer and Jake Marisnick each ROCKIES 10, BREWERS 0 Henderson Alvarez (0-1) gave up two runs in drove in a run for the Astros. Making his first Kyle Kendrick pitched seven sharp innings seven innings and scored Miamiís only run. opening-day start, Keuchel (1-0) allowed three and also got two hits as Colorado trounced Marlins slugger Giancarlo Stanton went 1 hits in seven innings. Tony Sipp threw a per- Milwaukee. Corey Dickerson and Nolan for 4 and made a baserunning mistake. The fect eighth and new closer Luke Gregerson Arenado each homered and drove in four runs. game was Stantonís first since he signed a worked a 1-2-3 ninth for the save. Troy Tulowitzki doubled twice, singled and record $325 million, 13-year contract. Kluber (0-1) didnít allow a hit until Jose scored three times. There were eight extra- Altuveís soft single with two outs in the sixth. base hits in the game, all by the Rockies. REDS 5, PIRATES 2 Altuve stole second and scored on a single by Kendrick (1-0), who left Philadelphia after Todd Frazier hit a three-run homer in the Springer. Kluber yielded three hits and two last season, excelled in his first opening day eighth inning to rally Cincinnati past runs with seven strikeouts in 7 1-3 innings a start. He gave up seven singles, walked none Pittsburgh. Billy Hamilton and Joey Votto sin- day after agreeing to a five-year, $38.5 million and struck out six. gled before Frazier connected against Tony contract. — AP After former commissioner Bud Selig lobbed in the ceremonial first ball, the Rockies teed off against Kyle Lohse (0-1). With the Brewers trailing 1-0, slugger Ryan Braun left with a strain on his right side.

ORIOLES 6, RAYS 2 Chris Tillman pitched into the seventh inning and Baltimore hit three homers while spoiling Tampa Bayís debut under rookie man- ager Kevin Cash. Tillman (1-0) allowed one run and four hits in 6 2-3 innings. He was working on a shutout in his second career opening day start before Evan Longoria led off the seventh with a home run. Alejandro De Aza, Steve Pearce and Ryan Flaherty connected for the defending American League East division champions, and Travis Snider had three hits in his Baltimore debut. Snider also drove in two runs and threw a runner out at the plate from right field. Chris Archer (0-1) gave up four runs and six hits over 5 2-3 innings.

ROYALS 10, WHITE SOX 1 WASHINGTON: Nationals starting pitcher Max Scherzer throws the first pitch at a baseball CINCINNATI: Reds’ Billy Hamilton slaps hands with the mascots as introductions are made Yordano Ventura pitched six solid innings game between the Washington Nationals and the New York Mets on opening day at on the field before the start of their opening day baseball game against the Pittsburgh before leaving with a thumb cramp, and Alex Nationals Park. — AP Pirates. — AP WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 SPORTS Doubts over Brazil’s ‘pacification’ strategy

RIO DE JANEIRO: Fresh violence in Rio’s slums has led August 5 next year. To date, they have deployed 38 going to back to how things were seven years ago,” University also has doubts. “Many police think the UPP to growing doubts over the effectiveness of Brazil’s police units in 264 impoverished, crime-hit neighbor- said Major Marcelo Cobrage, coordinator of the Police program will not hold in the long term and the favela seven-year-old strategy of “pacifying” districts in thrall hoods housing more than a million people to “pacify” Pacification Units or UPPs. residents think they will not stay beyond the to gangs and drug traffickers. them. But the shooting of Eduardo de Jesus Ferreira, “It is impossible to prevent stray bullets and it is the Olympics,” said Misse. After the country won the right to stage last year’s killed outside his house, has whipped up a storm of traffickers who are using the population as shields Misse said traffickers chose the drugs trade World Cup and next year’s Rio Olympics, city authori- protest against the police. amid the shooting,” he told AFP. because it pays better than other options. “The attrac- ties began to beef up police numbers in the “favelas”- Fatal shootings are more rare than before the “The police will not withdraw and we shall call for tion to youngsters is very great, not just because of the as its slums are known. police moved in-yet the past three months have seen collaboration with the population, so that they tell us money but for the gang lifestyle of adventure and But after the World Cup and as the Olympics draw an upsurge of violence. Three people were killed and where the traffickers and their guns and drugs are.” danger,” Misse said. nearer, outbreaks of violent unrest are forcing a 22 wounded by stray bullets in January as gang war- But Ignacio Cano, an expert on crime and violence “Some police close their eyes to drug dealing.” Rio rethink of a strategy which experts say is not sufficient- fare surged in Alemao and other large favelas, such as at Rio University, told AFP he doubted the strategy University anthropologist Alba Zaluar said that “with ly well thought out for the long term. “We are going to Mare near Rio’s international airport. could work long term. “This stronger occupation can pacification, the large favelas lost money, prestige and step up, in bolstering police numbers,” Rio state gover- “Fear and horror are constant. We are caught in the reduce the amount shooting in the short term but power” as the traffickers saw much of their terrain nor Luiz Fernando Pezao said Sunday in announcing crossfire every day as we are stuck in the middle of a these are special operations reinforcements which seized. But Zaluar added that widespread social unrest the “reoccupation” of the Alemao group of Rio favelas. game of cat and mouse,” one Alemao resident, Zaquel cannot continue indefinitely,” Cano told AFP. “Instead, ahead of the World Cup gave raffickers a chance to But last week’s shooting dead by a policeman of a Nunes, told AFP. Nunes witnessed last week’s violence we need a program which bolsters community rela- regain lost ground as police struggled to respond-and 10-year-old boy in Alemao, home to some 70,000 peo- and tried to come to the aid of a neighbor, a woman tions.” Cano also criticized what he termed the military the sometimes heavy-handed response cost the ple in the north of the city, has boosted calls for a dif- who died from gunshot wounds on the way to hospi- mindset of politicians and the police and voiced the police public support. Zaluar urged the authorities to ferent strategy. Authorities are determined to crack tal. Since January, 40 people have died in Rio state in view that “for them, to pull out would be a defeat.” pay more serious attention to how weapons get into down on crime ahead of the Olympics, which start on similar incidents. “This is a difficult time but we are not Sociologist Michel Misse from Rio’s Federal the slums in the first place. — AFP McIlroy’s grand slam bid sets up tasty Masters

AUGUSTA: The prospect of a career grand slam for world number one Rory McIlroy and uncertainty over the state of Tiger Woods’ game have dominat- ed the build-up to this week’s Masters at Augusta National. Northern Irishman McIlroy will be bidding for his third consecutive victory in a major, and his first Green Jacket at the picturesque ‘Cathedral of Pines’ in Georgia, to complete a full set of all four of golf’s blue riband events. “I’ve got a chance to go to Augusta and do something very few players in this game have done before so that adds a little bit of spice to it,” said McIlroy. Four-times champion Woods, meanwhile, only decided on Friday to compete at Augusta National, having struggled badly in his two tourna- ment starts this season. “It’s obviously very important to me and I want to be there,” said Woods, who missed last year’s Masters after being advised by doctors to have a microdiscectomy to repair a pinched nerve in his back. “I’ve worked a lot on my game and I’m look- ing forward to competing.” He posted the highest score of his professional career, an 11-over-par 82, to miss the cut at the Phoenix Open in January, and withdrew from the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines the follow- ing week after 11 holes because of tightness in his Derek Stepan of New York Rangers in action in this file photo. back. The former world number one, who claimed the most recent of his 14 major titles at the 2008 U.S. Open, said he would not return to the PGA AUGUSTA: Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, hits on the driving range during a practice round Rangers and Tour until his game was “tournament-ready” and for the Masters golf tournament. — AP many pundits believe he is suffering from the chip- Bobby Jones and Gene Sarazen. Short game wizardry and the ability to minimise ping ‘yips’. If Woods does indeed have the yips, an Though McIlroy is the pre-tournament favourite three-putts are musts for any would-be Masters Sabres advance involuntary movement of the muscles, Augusta at the Masters, the possibilities are seemingly end- champion at an iconic venue renowned for its National will provide him with a daunting chal- less when it comes to likely winners. lightning-fast, severely contoured greens. lenge given its slick, heavily contoured greens. The last eight editions have produced seven dif- The list of potential champions for this year’s NEW YORK: Derek Stepan scored with 28 goal in 34 games since Jan. 19. They McIlroy tied for eighth at last year’s Masters to ferent champions and golf’s extraordinary depth of tournament is a long one, as demonstrated by the seconds left in regulation to force over- must finish the regular season on the record his first top-10 in six appearances at the sea- talent has been showcased on the 2014-15 PGA ‘unlikely’ Masters victories of Canada’s Mike Weir in time, then got the winner late in the road, where they’ve won 10 straight son’s opening major. Four years ago, he squan- Tour where there have been 19 different winners 2003, American Zach Johnson in 2007 and South extra period in the New York Rangers’ 4-3 games to set a club record, with visits to dered a four-shot lead heading into the final round from the 20 tournaments so far completed. African Trevor Immelman in 2008. victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets Central Division rivals Chicago, Nashville as he closed with a nightmarish 80, but he immedi- The only ‘repeat’ Masters winner over the past Among the top contenders this year are 2013 on Monday. With their fourth straight and St. Louis. The Jets reached 94 points, ately rebounded from that meltdown with his first eight years is reigning champion Bubba Watson, champion Adam Scott and fellow Australian Jason win, the Rangers improved to a league- keeping the pressure on not only the major victory at the US Open two months later. who earned his first Green Jacket in 2012. Day, American Jimmy Walker, a double winner on best 109 points. With three games Wild but the Pacific Division teams that “To win it three times would be remarkable,” the the 2014-15 PGA Tour, and compatriot Jordan remaining, the Rangers are two points haven’t secured one of the three playoff EXTRAORDINARY DEPTH American left-hander said of his bid to join the likes Spieth, a runner-up at Augusta last year. ahead of Anaheim for the Presidents’ berths on the other side of the tough McIlroy has since added two PGA of Sam Snead, Gary Player and Phil Mickelson by Other likely candidates include long-hitting Trophy. Western Conference. Championship crowns (in 2012 and 2014) and the becoming the sixth triple champion at Augusta. American Dustin Johnson, his compatriot The Rangers have won the Presidents’ British Open (2014), leaving him poised to become “I never thought I would win it twice, so I can’t Mickelson, consistent Swede Henrik Stenson, 2013 Trophy once in their 88-year history, in CANUCKS 2, KINGS 1 the seventh career grand slam winner following believe that we are talking about it ... three times. US Open champion Justin Rose of England and ris- the 1993-94 season - the last time the Chris Higgins scored in the shootout Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Ben Hogan, Pretty wild and pretty crazy stuff.” ing Japanese talent Hideki Matsuyama. — Reuters club won the Stanley Cup. Columbus, the and Eddie Lack made 36 saves to lead NHL’s hottest team, had won nine in a Vancouver. Daniel Sedin scored in regula- row, but won’t make the playoffs. tion as the Canucks solidified second Woods shows flashes place in the Pacific Division with 97 SABRES 4, HURRICANES 3 points, four ahead of Calgary and the Tyler Ennis scored his 20th goal and Kings. Dwight King scored for the the Sabres avoided clinching a last-place defending Stanley Cup champion Kings, of old form in practice overall finish in the NHL this season - at who moved into a third-place tie at 93 points with Calgary. However, the Flames least for another game. AUGUSTA: Tiger Woods strolled up to his second Mikhail Grigorenko, Brian Gionta and own a tiebreaker with more regulation shot at the short par-four third hole and routinely Johan Larsson also scored for Buffalo, and overtime wins. Los Angeles also hit a 35-yard pitch shot at the pin that finished which entered the game a loss away dropped one point behind Winnipeg for about eight feet from the cup to cheers at Augusta from guaranteeing the best odds at the the second wild card in the Western National. It was only a practice round with old first pick in June’s NHL draft. The Sabres Conference. friend Mark O’Meara on the Monday of Masters have 54 points, two points behind week, but it gave hope that the four-time winner of Edmonton. Anders Lindback made 49 STARS 5, SHARKS 1 the green jacket might still be capable of major saves. Alexander Semin, Eric Staal and Jamie Benn scored twice and Colton championship magic. Patrick Dwyer scored for Carolina, which Sceviour scored in the first 30 seconds as Routine for the Woods of old, but full of drama nearly erased a four-goal deficit in the Dallas beat San Jose on a night when for those who have cringed at the startling loss of defeat. Carolina out shot Buffalo in every both teams were eliminated from the short-game control that sent the former world period en route to a 52-25 advantage for playoff race. number one into a self-imposed exile since he the game. Patrick Eaves and Ryan Garbutt also withdrew after 11 holes at Torrey Pines on Feb. 5. scored for the Stars, who have won seven “I’m on the better side of it now,” Woods told JETS 2, WILD 0 of their last eight road games and seven reporters when asked how he had fared with his Blake Wheeler and Drew Stafford of 10 overall. Joe Thornton scored for the chipping during his 11 holes of practice on scored and Ondrej Pavelec made 32 Sharks, who failed to make the playoffs Monday. Woods arrived at Augusta National after saves as Winnipeg gave its playoff push a for the first time since 2002-03. most of the practice round crowds had begun big boost and prevented Minnesota from Jhonas Enroth stopped 23 of 24 shots streaming out. When word began circulating that the 14-times major winner was hitting balls on clinching a wild-card spot. to improve to 3-0 in four career appear- the practice range, many patrons turned back and The Wild stayed stuck on 96 points ances against the Sharks. Alex Stalock returned to watch him. after their first loss by more than one made 20 saves. — AP Despite being the last pair to tee off on the AUGUSTA: Tiger Woods tips his cap after teeing on the fourth hole during a practice round for front nine, a massive throng gathered at the first the Masters golf tournament. — AP tee, and Woods was greeted with shouts of encour- NHL results/standings agement. Woods, who has also been battling to get comfortable with a new swing, hit his opening shot Day eager for chance to Buffalo 4, Carolina 3; NY Rangers 4, Columbus 3 (OT); Winnipeg 2, Minnesota 0; at the par-four first way left to the eighth fairway Vancouver 2, Los Angeles 1 (SO); Dallas 5, San Jose 1. but showed a flash of brilliance by sending his sec- ond over the trees to five feet and made birdie. avenge Masters letdown Western Conference Tampa Bay 48 24 8 255 206 104 He reached the par-five second in two shots in Pacific Division Boston 41 25 13 209 201 95 another affirmative display, and at the 240-yard, AUGUSTA: For Jason Day, the Masters and the pur- struck. Consecutive bogeys kept him out of a play- W L OTLGF GA PTS Detroit 41 25 13 227 215 95 par-three fourth hole threatened to make an ace suit of a coveted green jacket has been an obses- off won by compatriot Adam Scott, who became Anaheim 50 23 7 234 221 107 Ottawa 40 26 13 228 211 93 before sinking the short putt for another birdie. sion since he first picked up a golf club. And if Day the first Australian to win at Augusta. “When I had wins the year’s first major on Sunday, everything the lead on 16, I wanted it so much that I think I put Vancouver 46 29 5 231 217 97 Florida 36 29 15 199 219 87 Woods completed the front nine with O’Meara, Calgary 43 29 7 234 208 93 the 1998 Masters champion, then played the 10th else the 27-year-old Australian does on a golf so much pressure on myself that I ended up bogey- Toronto 30 43 7 208 253 67 course will be icing on the cake. ing 16 and 17,” said Day. Los Angeles 39 25 15 213 197 93 hole on his own before coming back up the par- Buffalo 23 49 8 159 268 54 “Everyone has different goals in life,” Day told “I just want to win it even more now. “I’m always San Jose 39 32 9 224 227 87 four 18th with Larry Mize, who won the prized Edmonton 23 43 13 188 272 59 Metropolitan Division reporters after a practise round at Augusta National going to try and improve and get better each and green jacket in 1987. Woods only announced last on Monday. “Everyone has different things they every year here, and that goes for every other tour- Arizona 24 47 8 167 262 56 NY Rangers 51 21 7 244 185 109 week that he would compete in his first Masters Central Division Washington 44 25 11 237 199 99 want to try and achieve. nament but this one is that much (more) special. since 2013 after missing last year while recovering “We’ve been gearing my golf game ever since I Day would normally garner plenty of attention in St. Louis 49 23 7 242 197 105 NY Islanders 46 27 6 241 219 98 from back surgery. was 12, 13 ... to try and attack this golf tournament, the lead-up to Thursday’s opening round but with Nashville 47 22 10 227 197 104 Pittsburgh 42 26 11 215 203 95 The pressure is on him after a two-month building my game toward winning this tournament. Tiger Woods returning to action and Rory McIlroy Chicago 48 25 6 225 182 102 Columbus 39 35 5 222 244 83 absence from the PGA Tour that followed an “Whatever I win after, that would be a bonus.” Day seeking a career grand slam, the world number five Minnesota 44 27 8 223 194 96 Philadelphia 32 29 18 208 224 82 abysmal stretch in which his best finish in six offi- came agonisingly close in 2011 when, playing in his is flying under the radar. Winnipeg 41 26 12 224 208 94 New Jersey 32 34 13 174 205 77 cial events was 69th at the British Open, dropping Masters debut, he finished runner-up to Charl But having healed thumb and back injuries that Dallas 39 31 10 253 259 88 Carolina 29 39 11 183 220 69 his ranking to 111th. Schwartzel. hampered him last season and his game back in Colorado 36 31 12 212 223 84 But Woods, of course, is no stranger to pressure In 2013, Day again looked ready to conquer a solid shape after collecting a third PGA Tour title at Note: Overtime losses (OTL) are worth Eastern Conference and if the touch has returned to his short game, he lifelong quest. Holding a two-stroke lead in the final the Farmers Insurance Open in February, Day will be Atlantic Division one point in the standings and are not could burst back to prominence at the year’s first round with three holes to play, Day had one arm among the contenders when first round play Montreal 48 22 10 213 183 106 included in the loss column (L). major starting tomorrow. — Reuters inside the sleeve of the green jacket when disaster begins. — Reuters WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 SPORTS Man City deja vu leaves Pellegrini exposed

LONDON: Manchester City supporters who have Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup final, and a similar and drop off it.” The club’s failure to reach the League Soccer, who had made the biggest impact seen their team’s Premier League title challenge fate is likely to lie in store for Pellegrini. Champions League quarter-finals also counts by the time Wilfried Bony arrived from Swansea disintegrate before their eyes in recent weeks Heralded as the antithesis to the spiky and against Pellegrini, even if there was no disgrace in City in a £25 million deal in January. could be forgiven a nagging feeling of deja vu. combative Mancini, the urbane Chilean steered succumbing to the genius of Barcelona’s Lionel “I think it is so poor from those at the top of City plundered 102 goals as they streaked past a the club to a league and League Cup double in his Messi as City did in the last 16. But while Pellegrini the club,” said former Liverpool defender Jamie faltering Liverpool in last season’s title race, but first season. But Pellegrini’s position now appears is expected to carry the can for City’s failure to Carragher, Neville’s fellow pundit on Sky Sports. “It Monday’s 2-1 loss at Crystal Palace left their untenable, with British bookmakers offering odds kick on, fingers are also being pointed at figures is mismanagement from them.” defence of the trophy in pieces. of 2/7 that he will no longer be at the helm on the higher up in the Etihad Stadium hierarchy. Compounding matters, City’s stalwarts have Nine points behind leaders Chelsea having opening day of next season. It is CEO Ferran Soriano and director of football struggled to recapture the heights of last season. played a game more, Manuel Pellegrini’s side Former United manager Alex Ferguson accused Txiki Begiristain who are responsible for the club’s While Joe Hart has impressed, Sergio Aguero has need a minor miracle to retain the title and now City of slackening off after their 2012 league suc- transfer activity, not Pellegrini, and the club’s scored only three league goals in 2015, the influ- face a fight to avoid a place in next season’s cess in his autobiography and it is a charge that close-season dealings left much to be desired. ence of Yaya Toure and David Silva has diminished Champions League play-off round. his former captain Gary Neville repeated on Despite Financial Fair Play restrictions, City and captain Vincent Kompany appears to be in The club’s previous title triumph, in 2012, was Monday. “They have got a mentality problem, splurged £32 million ($47.6 million, 43.8 million terminal decline. Arsenal and United have both followed by a similar slump. Having snatched the there is no doubt about that. This team cannot euros) on Eliaquim Mangala, but the French cen- exploited City’s difficulties to surge past them and crown from Manchester United’s grasp on the sustain success, and I think that is a terrible thing tre-back has been unable to hold down a first- on Sunday the champions face a potentially chas- final day of the 2011-12 campaign, City stagnated to have levelled at you,” said Neville, now a televi- team place. tening trip to Old Trafford. and finished the following season 11 points adrift sion pundit. Fernando, Bacary Sagna and Willy Caballero With a seven-point advantage over Liverpool, a of their derby rivals in second place. “When you win championships, you have got have added little beyond squad depth and it says top-four place does not appear to be in jeopardy, Manager Roberto Mancini paid the price with to be able to come back again with hunger and much that it was 36-year-old Frank Lampard, sup- but a fourth-place finish would represent another his job, sacked two days after a shock defeat by they do not. They get to the top of the mountain posedly on the brink of semi-retirement in Major damning fall from grace. —AFP Melchiot: Dutch too much dependent on Robben LONDON: Netherlands are over-reliant on on the way he’s developing he will become a winger Arjen Robben and the 2014 World great player.” Cup semi-finalists are in danger of failing to make next year’s European Championship, NEW STYLE according to former defender Mario Melchiot, who also played for Ajax Melchiot. Amsterdam, Stade Rennes, Birmingham City Guus Hiddink took over as coach when and Wigan Athletic before quitting in 2011, Louis van Gaal joined Manchester United said Hiddink’s style was completely different after last year’s World Cup in Brazil but his to Van Gaal’s. “I love Holland but at the squad are toiling in Euro 2016 qualifying. moment it’s a new team. When Van Gaal took They are third in Group A after five match- over they had their ups and downs but he es, six points behind Czech Republic and five came through it. He’s one of my inspirational adrift of Iceland. coaches, he gave me my debut for Ajax and “I’m not sure they will qualify,” Melchiot Holland. “Now Hiddink is coach and it’s a dif- told Reuters in an interview after watching ferent philosophy. He didn’t like Van Gaal’s phi- his former club Chelsea beat Stoke City 2-1 in losophy in terms of the way the team played the Premier League at the weekend. and now he’s showing Van Gaal wasn’t so bad “Everyone knows Holland aren’t the team after all because he did really well at the World they were. They don’t look like a team that is Cup.”The Dutch were held to a 1-1 home draw playing great football. “You don’t always by fourth-placed Turkey on March 28 before have to play the most beautiful game but beating former world and European champi- you have to be at least convincing and they ons Spain 2-0 in a friendly in Amsterdam three don’t look convincing to me.” days later. Melchiot, who won 22 caps for his coun- “Hiddink did really well against Spain but try, believes too much revolves around they are not the old Spain of course,” said Bayern Munich forward Robben who scored Melchiot. “They are also rebuilding their team. three goals and was one of the World Cup’s It doesn’t mean they are not great as individu- best players before the Dutch were knocked als but as a team they are not performing so out on penalties by eventual runners-up well any more. Argentina. “They used to be great individuals in a “The main guy for Holland right now, the great team. They still look great individuals star player, is Robben,” he said. “At the World but the team looks like it’s crumbling a bit.” Cup he showed how important he is for the Melchiot has been out of football since team. “He has to be fit. If you don’t have retiring four years ago and has no ambitions Robben in the side they look very vulnerable. to become a manager or coach. “I work for They look okay but not a great side-he makes Fox Sports, I enjoy my life, I travel, I talk LONDON: Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero (center) tussles with Crystal Palace’s Joel Ward (left) and Crystal Palace’s James McArthur during the the difference. about the game, I love the game and I will English Premier League soccer match. — AP “They have some good youngsters like always be part of the game but not as a Memphis Depay but we have to wait to see coach,” he said. “If I change my mind it will what’s going to develop with him,” said be to work with children. I love the emotion Melchiot of the PSV Eindhoven forward who of a child, to make him or her feel welcomed Failure to storm Palace is top of the scoring charts in the Dutch and loved and to understand the game but championship this season with 19 goals. “I when it comes to the top level I just enjoy enjoy watching him at PSV and if he carries being a fan.” — Reuters spells end for City hopes

LONDON: Separated from Chelsea by alphabeti- ideas and confidence. at Old Trafford on Sunday knowing defeat could cal order on New Year’s Day, Manchester City City have spent 327 million pounds ($486 mil- be the final nail in their season’s coffin. now trail the Premier League leaders by nine lion) since 2011 but much of the money has “They’re getting older. Their average age is points and their hopes of retaining the title gone on assembling a disjointed and ageing the highest in the league at 29 and a half,” appear to be over. squad which urgently needs of a major overhaul. Neville said. “Unfortunately, some of those lads A 2-1 defeat by Crystal Palace on Monday Former Manchester United defender Gary are not going to be there next season. They’re continued a poor run of form that has brought Neville believes City do not have the mental going to pay for what is a disappointing season.” only four wins in 11 league games and sent City strength to regularly deliver silverware. “They’ve Pellegrini, however, remains confident that down to fourth, piling the pressure on manager got a mentality problem. There’s no doubt,” he will not suffer the fate of his predecessor Manuel Pellegrini Neville told Sky Sports. “This team cannot sus- Roberto Mancini who was sacked for failing to City had 74 percent possession, 22 shots and tain success. “When you win championships, win a trophy a year after City claimed the title. 13 corners against a spirited Palace side but they you’ve got to be able to come back again and “I’m not concerned about my job. That is one could only find the net through Yaya Toure’s show the same hunger. They don’t. They drop off thing I am never concerned with,” Pellegrini told 78th-minute goal. it. They get to the top of the mountain and go, reporters. Striker Sergio Aguero, who has bagged 17 ‘phew, we did it’, and it’s the worst thing that can “I never have fear about it, I do my work, I’m league goals this season, has not scored for 556 happen.” City trail third-placed Manchester very happy. The team maybe have a difficult minutes, a statistic that sums up a side bereft of United by a point and they face their local rivals season but I never worry about me.” — Reuters CAIRO: FIFA President Sepp Blatter (second left) speaks during a joint press confer- ence with Confederation of African Football President Issa Hayatou (second right) and FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke (left) and Confederation of African Davidson has Le Mans on his mind Football Secretary General Hicham El Amrani in Cairo yesterday. — AP LONDON: Toyota’s Anthony Davidson starts the In the 2013 race, Davidson finished second you won the 24 hours of Le Mans...sounds more Blatter opposes defence of his world endurance title at Silverstone while in 2012 he had a massive crash that saw the impressive (than the championship). “People in the this weekend with Le Mans on his mind. The 24 car take off at the Mulsanne corner and left the know, know what the championship means. But for Hours at the Circuit de la Sarthe in western France Briton in hospital with two broken vertebrae. something to hang your hat on, of course Le Mans Palestinian on June 13-14 is the jewel of the championship, a The experience has in no way dimmed the for- is an amazing achievement.” classic test that has mauled many a driver over the mer Formula One driver’s enthusiasm or determi- So too is winning the world endurance title, a years and that every sportscar racer wants to win. nation. “I feel personally as a driver I have tamed it,” championship growing in stature in the motor- “We had a big fight on our hands last year all he said. “I feel I know how to win that race. I’ve led sport world even if crowds- with the exception of bid to bar Israel the way through (the championship),” the 35-year- it a couple of times outright and it’s looked like I’ve the 250,000 thronging Le Mans-are comparatively old Briton told Reuters in an interview ahead of been on my way to winning it. “I feel like the team small. Toyota face a big battle this season against CAIRO: FIFA president Sepp Blatter yesterday ineffective. Statutes allowed for stiffer sanctions Sunday’s Six Hours of Silverstone season-opener. had the recipe to win it last year, we had the fastest perennial Le Mans favourites and winners Audi as expressed his opposition to a Palestinian bid to which now had to be implemented as the battle “We didn’t win Le Mans-that was our main tar- car and on my car we had the reliability to win it. well as the Porsche works cars. bar Israel from international competition, saying against ‘the scourge of racism and discrimina- get for the season and we didn’t achieve that. So We would have won it at a canter, well over six laps, The eight round calendar includes six hour such a move would harm football’s governing tion is not being won’, he told the Confederation that remains the same for this year. if we didn’t have the crash early on in the race due races at Spa-Francorchamps, the Nuerburgring, in body itself. Blatter is due to meet Palestinian of African Football congress. “We have to punish “I think it’s going to be hard to defend the to the weather.” Austin, Texas, at Japan’s Fuji circuit, Shanghai and Football Association (PFA) chief Jibril Rajoub in not only through fines and stadium closures but championship and possibly even harder to win Le A victory this year would be more than wel- Bahrain. Cairo later yesterday to discuss PFA calls for we have to use our rules to suspend teams, to Mans. But it should be a great fight.” come, however it might come. “If I am handed the “In the second year of a stable set of regulations Israel to be suspended by FIFA for its “racist take away their points or even to relegate them Davidson won last year’s endurance champi- victory this year...I would quite happily take it it seems that everyone has improved, we’ve all behavior against Arabs”. if racism continues,” Blatter said. onship with Switzerland’s Sebastien Buemi but fin- because it would make up for all the times when I honed our cars as you’d expect,” said Davidson of When asked by AFP at a press conference to Blatter reminded African countries of exten- comment on the PFA request, Blatter said that sive financial support to the continent’s football ished only third at Le Mans after a heavy crash on a did deserve to win it (and did not),” said Davidson, the battle ahead. “I think it’s probably going to be “such a situation shall not occur at the FIFA con- associations from world football’s governing wet track early on in the race with Frenchman who now has the number one on his Toyota. “To more of the same in terms of the level of competi- gress because suspension of a federation for any body as he opened the congress in a Cairo hotel Nicolas Lapierre at the wheel. the average person on the street, to tell them that tion.” — Reuters reason is always something which harms the yesterday. whole organisation”. Blatter, who is expected to get extensive “I will meet Jibril Rajoub, president of support from the continent’s 54 countries when Palestine Football federation, later. I can’t give he stands for re-election next month, said FIFA you more details,” said the outgoing FIFA presi- had spent some $700 million on various pro- dent who is seeking a fifth term in office at an grammes across Africa. “We should maybe election next month. In its draft resolution ask- spend more to prepare a better future for the ing Israel to be barred, the PFA also protested at children,” he added, mirroring the promises of the creation of “five clubs in settlements on land his three rivals in the FIFA election for more occupied since 1967, clubs participating in financial assistance for member countries. Israeli national championships in violation of Blatter was met with a warm ovation from the international law”. The PFA last called for Israel’s African delegates in contrast to having to sit suspension in November after Israeli forces raid- through stinging criticism when he attended ed its headquarters in the West Bank city of the UEFA congress in Vienna last month. Ramallah. Today’s CAF congress was also attended by It has also cried foul over Israeli travel restric- Prince Ali bin Al Hussein of Jordan, Dutch tions on Palestinian players. To be passed the Football Association President Michael van Palestinian resolution must win the support of Praag and former Portugal international Luis at least 156 other delegates at the 209-member Figo, who are all standing against Blatter, but FIFA congress. Blatter is attending a two-day they were not permitted to address the assem- meeting of the Confederation of African bly. CAF president Issa Hayatou, who last year Football (CAF) in Cairo, which today will choose pledged his members’ support to Blatter’s bid a host country for the 2017 Africa Cup of for another term in office, repeated his call for Nations. Meanwhile, Blatter called for tougher Africa to back the incumbent. “He has been a punishment for teams and associations found faithful partner and in Africa we acknowledge guilty of racism and discrimination yesterday our friends and offer them that they deserve,” and said monetary sanctions were increasingly added Hayatou. — Reuters Anthony Davidson in action in this file photo. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 SPORTS Athens giants poised for top-flight comeback

ATHENS: Fallen Athens footballing giants AEK are Heading into the post-season playoffs, they have Bakakis and midfielder Petros Mantalos-have now After overcoming their financial troubles, the poised to return to Greece’s top flight next season a 10-point lead in bonus points over their oppo- been capped for Greece while forward Christos club must now tame unruly supporters who have after a disgraceful drop to amateur status following nents. Just two years ago, the story was entirely dif- Aravidis is the Football League’s leading scorer with repeatedly caused headaches. a period of turmoil. ferent. In 2013, the club were relegated to the sec- 13 goals in 18 matches. AEK have also joined the The latest incident involved a pitch invasion by “The story is well known and very sad for our ond division for the first time in their 81-year history London Stock Exchange Group’s pan-European plat- 25 fans during a Greek Cup quarter-final with fans” AEK executive director Dusan Bajevic told AFP. over a EUR35 million ($38m) debt caused by the form, bringing them into direct contact with Olympiakos last month for which AEK were deduct- “But now we are on the right path and feel much financial mismanagement of successive short-lived Europe’s financial and advisory community. ed three points, told to play two matches behind better. We must keep our feet on the ground, be administrations. Melissanidis, who delivered two championships closed doors and fined EUR17,000 ($18,600). serious, make the right moves and avoid mistakes.” Although AEK’s management woes were over a when he was in charge 20 years ago, has now also “Greek football and other sports suffer from Bajevic, a former star player, Yugoslavia interna- decade in the making, the fall coincided with the cli- pledged to build a new stadium in AEK’s historic crowd violence. People have stopped going to the tional and AEK coach, added that from the summer max of Greece’s own economic crisis. heartland, the working-class suburb of Nea stadiums because of hooliganism,” complained of 2013 a serious effort began “to make AEK a pro- To clear the slate, the club opted to drop to the Philadelphia. Dimitris Tsaptsinos, a member of the AEK Internet tagonist once again.” amateur third division in order to be able to qualify “No matter how much money you put into the Fan Club. One of the oldest clubs in Greece, AEK are “The financial situation is stable now and I’m sure for liquidation. AEK soon took that league by storm, club, there is no tomorrow for AEK without a team- also among the most successful with 28 league titles everything will go well. No AEK fan was happy with notching a record 23 wins, three draws and only one owned stadium in Nea Philadelphia,”Melissanidis and 14 Greek Cups. the team playing in an amateur league after such a defeat to climb one category within a year. said in a recent interview. And with the club almost assured a return to the long and glorious history,” said Nikos Angelidis, a Much of that is due to the relentless determina- The club was formed in 1924 by Greek refugees top-flight league, Alex Zaphiropoulos of the AEK fanatic supporter and founder of fan site AEK Live. tion of club owner Dimitris Melissanidis, a shipping from Istanbul-better known to Greeks as Gate 21 fan club of Canada sees bright days ahead. AEK are virtually assured of reentering the top magnate and fuel trader widely known in Greece as Constantinople, the former capital of the Byzantine “Our future is looking brighter than ever before. flight Super League next season, after finishing atop ‘the Tiger’. Melissanidis, 63, now bankrolls the team Empire. And in deference to AEK’s roots, the stadium To be honest, compared to what we AEK supporters the second-division undefeated on Sunday and with and has found additional sponsors to improve club will be called Haghia Sofia, the famed cathedral of have been through over the past years, it really can a 19-point advantage on runners-up Panachaiki. finances. Two squad members-defender Michalis Byzantine Emperor Justinian. only get better from here on,” he said. — AFP Germany host Brazil in women’s friendly

BERLIN: Germany play Brazil in a women’s hosts Brazil in the semi-finals as Germany went friendly today, but two months before the World on to win last year’s World Cup. Cup, thoughts of another 7-1 scoreline are far But Germany’s women are simply hoping for from the injury-hit hosts’ minds. a morale-boosting win in their penultimate “Half of our team’s gone,” said goalkeeper warm-up ahead of their World Cup finals in Nadine Angerer after seven of the Germany Canada from June 5 to July 6. squad were forced to pull out before the inter- Brazil are set to include forward Marta, a five- national in Fuerth. Few football fans need time winner of the world player of the year reminding of the men’s historic 7-1 drubbing of award, in their ranks. The 29-year-old turned up the heat on the tie by accusing the Germans of playing up to the referee in previous meetings between the sides. “We are all well aware that the Germans are Matches on TV usually much bigger and stronger than the (Local Timings) Brazilians. But sometimes they try things on,” said Martha in a press conference on Tuesday. “Sometimes we look like little girls compared England FA Cup to their two-metre tall women, but they try it on Blackburn v Liverpool 21:45 and the fans turn against us. “They are just neg- beIN SPORTS ative methods to try and decide a game, but I don’t like it.” Italian Cup The injury-hit Germans are set to include Napoli v Lazio 21:45 experienced strikers Anja Mittag and Alexandra beIN SPORTS 3 HD Popp, who have scored more than 60 interna- tional goals between them. Germany, the Spanish League world’s top ranking team, posted a 3-1 win over Barcelona v Almeria 21:45 Brazil, ranked seventh, in March’s Algarve Cup on their way to finishing third by beating beIN SPORTS 2 HD Sweden in a play-off. Deportivo v Cordoba 21:00 The Germans are targeting a third World Cup beIN SPORTS 6 HD title in Canada having been knocked out by Rayo v Real Madrid 23:00 eventual winners Japan in the quarter-finals of beIN SPORTS 2 HD the 2011 finals on home soil. Germany face Granada v Celta 23:00 Thailand, Ivory Coast and Norway in Group B beIN SPORTS 2 HD while Brazil will take on Spain, South Korea and Costa Rica in Group E. — AFP Bayern set for clash without Schweinsteiger

BERLIN: Thomas Mueller says injury-hit holders nows Madgeburg in the second round. Bayern Munich must show some toughness at Bayer warmed up with a 4-0 rout of relega- Bayer Leverkusen today for a place in the tion-threatened Hamburg at home last Saturday German Cup’s semi-finals without latest casualty while Bayern ground out a win in Dortmund with Bastian Schweinsteiger. With the Munich giants an untypically defensive display. SEONGNAM: Kim Sung-joon of South Korea’s Seongnam (front) fights for the ball with Jiang Zhipeng of China’s Guangzhou R&F during their ten points clear in the Bundesliga and fourth- “The chance to beat Bayern at home is Group F soccer match in the Asian Champions League. — AP placed Bayer on course for a Champions League greater than in an away match or in a final,” said place next season, the clash at Leverkusen’s Leverkusen’s director of sport Rudi Voeller. BayArena is the stand-out tie of the quarter- “Bayern are in a different class to Hamburg Takasaki stunner puts finals. “You need to have some toughness for and we’ll have to put in a sensational perform- that, it’s the cup quarter-finals, there is definitely ance.” Bayern remain the team to beat, according a bit of spice in this one,” said Germany forward to Leverkusen’s former striker Stefan Kiessling, as Mueller in his own unique style. Leverkusen bid to repeat their 2009 cup quarter- Bayern have a lengthy injury list with wingers final win over Bayern when Kiessling scored in a brakes on Guangzhou Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery, plus left-back 4-2 home win. Leverkusen went on to lose 1-0 to David Alaba out of the cup quarter-final with Werder Bremen in the 2009 final and since then long-term ailments. Bayern have won the cup three more times. TOKYO: Substitute Hiroyuki Takasaki scored with to parry a goal-bound volley in injury time but scoring boots at home as Kashima went ahead Defensive midfielder and Germany captain They are the record holders by winning the the last touch of the game as Kashima Antlers as he landed, he appeared to drag the loose ball through an early Yasushi Endo penalty. Schweinsteiger is also out after limping off in cup 17 times since the competition began in put Guangzhou Evergrande’s AFC Champions over the line. Goal-line technology has been It wasn’t until the 75th minute that Brazilian Saturday’s 1-0 win against Dortmund with an 1953. “Whoever wants to win the German Cup League title bid on hold with a 2-1 win yester- introduced to the English Premier League and forward Elkeson put Guangzhou level with a ankle injury. “He is definitely not going to play,” has to beat Bayern as some point,” said the 31- day. Takasaki nodded home a 93rd-minute free- the World Cup but it is not yet used in Asia’s pre- sweeping, left-footed volley from a chipped insisted Bayern coach Pep Guardiola yesterday. year-old Kiessling. “We have them now in the kick to hand the struggling Japanese side a life- mier club competition. Go Yo-Han had cancelled cross delivered by Gao Lin. Leverkusen will be without South Korea strik- quarter-finals, we had them at home a few years line and inflict a first Asian defeat on Fabio out Kerem Bulut’s opener and despite a late But Kashima showed the greater endeavour er Son Heung-Min, who is still suspended after ago at the same stage and we beat them to Cannavaro’s Guangzhou. penalty shout from Tomi Juric, Wanderers coach and composure and Takasaki, introduced in the being sent off in their extra-time win over min- reach the final. —Reuters Winless Kashima had been facing possible Tony Popovic cut a relieved figure after the 77th minute, seized his chance as he directed his elimination, while a fourth straight victory game. “You have to take your chances at this lev- header past goalkeeper Li Shuai. Elsewhere would have put wealthy Guangzhou into the last el, and in the end it was a bit scary, it could have Gamba Osaka beat Thailand’s Buriram United 2-1 16 as they bid for their second Asian title. gone either way,” said Popovic. “In the end we’re to leave Group F finely poised heading into the But Takasaki’s glancing header from Gaku still second (in the group) and we move on to final two rounds of pool matches. Shibasaki’s free-kick stunned the Chinese cham- the next game.” Theerathon Bunmathan put Buriram in front pions and left home fans weeping tears of joy at The results leave Guangzhou top of Group H but Brazilian forward Lins equalised before a rocking Kashima stadium. on nine points, four clear of the Wanderers and Kotaro Omori became the night’s second Also in Group H, title-holders Western Sydney FC Seoul, with Kashima still alive on three and Japanese super-sub with an 87th-minute winner. Wanderers were lucky to escape with a 1-1 draw with two more rounds of games to go. Seongnam FC fought to a 0-0 stalemate with against FC Seoul after a late goal-line controver- Six-goal hero Ricardo Goulart led Guangzhou Guangzhou R&F to leave all four sides in the sy. Wanderers ‘keeper Ante Covic did brilliantly to three wins in a row but the Brazilian left his group separated by only three points. — AFP Selection headache for Ancelotti

MADRID: Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is facing a midfield selection conundrum for today’s La Liga match across town at Rayo Vallecano as the European champions look to keep up the pressure on leaders Barcelona. Second-placed Real, who hammered Granada 9- 1 on Sunday with Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo netting his first five-goal haul, are four points behind Barca, who host Almeria earlier on Wednesday, with nine games left. Barring last-minute injuries, Ancelotti will have both Isco and James Rodriguez available for the first time in two months since James broke a bone in his foot and must decide which of the two playmakers joins fixtures Toni Kroos and Luka Modric across the centre. Isco, a Spain international who was suspend- ed for the Granada game, performed well first during Modric’s lengthy injury layoff and then during the absence of James and has become a huge favourite with the Real fans. Ancelotti, by contrast, has been whistled by Carlo Ancelotti some sections of the Bernabeu crowd as Real “He played very well, it didn’t look as though coach Juan Ignacio Martinez after Saturday’s 4-1 stumbled since the turn of the year and if he he hadn’t played for two months,” Ancelotti told home defeat to Levante. Barca’s Argentina for- drops Isco and the team stutter again the Italian a news conference. “He showed his quality, his ward Lionel Messi, in particular, will be keen to could be in for a torrid time. intensity and his ability to keep possession. He is get back among the goals after failing to score in James returned to action against Granada a very direct player and always shows great his last three outings in all competitions. and Ancelotti praised him after the game, sug- vision and awareness.” Ronaldo leapfrogged Messi to the top of the gesting he favours the Colombian, who joined After edging Celta Vigo 1-0 on Sunday, Barca La Liga scoring chart with Sunday’s five and has from Monaco for a fee of 80 million euros ($88 will be looking for a more convincing perform- 36, with Messi, who holds the record for a single Thomas Mueller million) in the close season. ance at home to struggling Almeria, who sacked season of 50, on 32. — Reuters Nets defeat McIlroy’s grand Blazers slam bid sets up 15 tasty17 Masters WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

Blatter opposes Palestinian bid to bar Israel Page 18

INDIANAPOLIS: Duke players celebrate with the trophy after their 68-63 victory over Wisconsin in the NCAA Final Four college basketball tournament championship.— AP Duke tops Wisconsin for national title

INDIANAPOLIS: Duke outscored Wisconsin by 14 points and was named MVP - and another freshman, 68-63 to the Blue Devils in Indianapolis. recaps of the game Monday night, sighing in disap- points over the final 13 minutes to grit out a 68-63 vic- Justise Winslow. All might be playing at an NBA arena Wisconsin fans had been hoping to celebrate the pointment. “I’m just thinking about all ... these seasons tory for its fifth national college basketball title on near you next season. “It shows a lot about their confi- team’s first national title in 74 years, but still, the upbeat that ended too soon,” Stangel said. “I wish they could Monday. dence,” said Quinn Cook, Duke’s only senior starter. group chanted, “Let’s go Wisco,” as fireworks burst over- have done it this time.” Jahlil Okafor, the likely first pick in the NBA draft if he The most overlooked of Krzyzewski’s first-year play- head and music blasted from speakers along the Earlier in the day, throngs of students and other decides to leave Duke, was outplayed by Wisconsin sen- ers stepped up with Okafor on the bench for much of streets. Police officers kept pedestrian traffic flowing Badgers fans clad in bright red jerseys and the school’s ior center Frank Kaminsky most of the night but came the second half in foul trouble. Grayson Allen, the slam- smoothly. signature striped bib overalls milled around campus. through big when the pressure was highest. The fresh- dunk champion at the high school McDonald’s All- Tyler Brown, a first-year student, walked along the Hundreds packed the university’s student union to man made two straight buckets over Kaminsky, sand- American contest last year, scored 16 points - 12 above street in tears Monday night. “I just wish they could watch the game. UW students Katie Zimny, 24, and wiched between a pair of 3-pointers from Tyus Jones, to his average - including eight straight for Duke after have pulled it off,” he said, wiping his face. “They played Laura Zimny, 20, sat in the Memorial Union building help the Blue Devils turn a one-time nine-point deficit Wisconsin went up by nine. so great, but they couldn’t do it.” while Laura tried to study the vascular system. into an eight-point lead with 1:22 left. But the Badgers couldn’t pull away from an aggres- University police said they were pleased with crowd Katie Zimny said the two scouted out their spot in A furious Wisconsin rally ensued, but it came up sive Duke defense that allowed only 55 points a game behavior during the Final Four matchup with Kentucky the union eight hours ahead of the 8:18 CDT tipoff. She short. Then, it was Okafor celebrating on the bottom of in the five contests leading to the final. Wisconsin shot over the weekend and had encouraged safety no mat- said they loved the atmosphere in the lodge-style din- a pile of teammates - a scene reminiscent of the last 41 percent - 7 points under its season average. ter the outcome in the title game. They reported ing room, as well as being surrounded by so many oth- time the Final Four was in Indianapolis, back in 2010 Kaminsky finished with 21 points and Nigel Hayes and Monday night that they put out a small fire but had no ers in their Badgers apparel. when Duke edged out Butler in another scintillating Sam Dekker added 13 apiece for the Badgers, who were other incidents. Bill Bogan was in the union building with his twin 11- final. The Blue Devils also took one here in 1991 - the trying to win their first national title since 1941. Griffin Stangel, 25, said his dreams of Badger basket- year-olds, Bryce and Zoe, cheering on the team Monday Grant Hill, Christian Laettner squad. “Shots just weren’t falling, and they were getting to ball victory were crushed again Monday night. Stangel night. Bogan said he was an alumnus of the university “It was heaven,” coach Mike Krzyzewski said of the the line, and when the tide changes like that, it’s kind of who now lives in California, said he grew up in Madison and traveled from Lafayette, Indiana, to watch the stadium where he’s 4-0 in Final Fours. “It was really hard to get back in the flow,” Dekker said. and had memories of the team’s 2000 trip to the Final game. “We couldn’t afford a trip to the championship divine.” Krzyzewski has five national college titles, alone Meanwhile, thousands of Wisconsin fans packed Four.“I just remember 10-year-old me at the fan celebra- this year, so I wanted to give them a chance to get in on in second place on the all-time list, behind only John downtown Madison on Monday night, dancing and tion,” Stangel said. “It was incredible.” But so far, the bas- the excitement on campus,” Bogan said. “If they win, it Wooden. jumping around, despite a loss to Duke University in the ketball seasons have not turned out the way he’d like, will be the biggest party I’ve ever seen here tonight.” Coach K did it with youngsters who grew into salty NCAA championship. Stangel said. Stangel said he attended the Sweet 16 and On State Street during the game, fans lined up out- old pros - many of whom won’t be around too long. Fans poured out of bars along State Street, the Elite Eight games in Los Angeles this season and hoped side bars waiting to enter and watched the matchup There’s Okafor, his friend, Jones - who finished with 23 downtown’s main thoroughfare, after the Badgers fell the Badgers would clinch the win. He sat watching through windows as it rained. —AP Atletico too good Felline takes stage two, for Moyes Sociedad Matthews retains lead MADRID: Atletico Madrid moved Arda Turan volleyed against the VITORIA:Italian Fabio Felline edged out towards the end of Monday’s first stage to within six points of La Liga post inside 60 seconds. Australia’s Michael Matthews to win the which left five riders suffering bad leaders Barcelona thanks to a The visitors managed to scram- second stage, but the Orica-GreenEdge injuries with the cause of the accident comfortable 2-0 win over David ble the rebound behind but from rider maintained his overall lead at the blamed on poorly marked traffic bol- Moyes Real Sociedad yesterday. the resulting corner, Gonzalez Tour of the Basque Country yesterday. lards. Today’s third stage is another The champions never looked in could only flick Koke’s in-swinging Felline pipped Matthews in a sprint undulating 170.7km ride from Vitoria to danger from the moment Mikel delivery into the far corner. finish to the line on the 175.4km ride Zumarraga with four peaks in the final from Bilbao to Vitoria in a time of 4hr 40 kilometres. Gonzalez headed into his own net Eight minutes later it was 2-0 32min 32sec with France’s Tony Gallopin Meanwhile, Giro d’Italia winner Nairo after just two minutes. as Geronimo Rulli could only par- in third. Quintana will be the man to beat. The Antoine Griezmann then dou- ry Koke’s fierce drive into the path Matthews retains the overall lead, Colombian won the race back in 2013 bled the hosts’ advantage against of Griezmann, who slammed the though, having won the opening stage and will be looking to build on his win at his former club shortly afterwards ball high into the net but refused on Monday. “I did not wait for Matthews, the Tirreno-Adriatico last month. to end the game as a contest to celebrate out of respect to the today I started my sprint first,” said “I have very good memories (of this inside the first 10 minutes. club he spent nine years with pri- Felline. “I was in a good position at the race), the truth is I like it and I have a lot Barcelona can regain their or to his big money move to end and I was right to go early. “I knew I of teammates that know the race very nine-point lead over Atletico Atletico last summer. had good legs and I came here with the well,” Quintana told the race’s website. when they and closest chal- Griezmann came close to intention to win a stage. “This reassures us and with the team lengers Real Madrid are in action inflicting more pain on his former With 40k to go I had a puncture, but we have we shouldn’t have any prob- against Almeria and Rayo employers as he was denied by a SPAIN :Atletico Madrid’s Mexican forward Raul Jimenez (right) the team was there to help me. All day lems. The route is well-suited for me, but Vallecano respectively on last-ditch tackle from Gonzalez vies with Real Sociedad’s midfielder Markel Bergara during the they trusted in me. It is thanks to my I have to have my rivals in mind.” Wednesday. before nodding just wide from Spanish League football match. — AFP team that I won. This is a dream.” Quintana won’t come up against the Sociedad beat Atletico 2-1 another dangerous corner. smart save. characteristically solid at the back Polish world champion Michal men he is likely to be battling for victory when the sides met back in Sociedad gradually grew into Atletico took the sting out of to secure a fifth consecutive clean Kwiatowski was fourth, as race favourite at the Tour in a few months time as Chris Nairo Quintana finished safely amongst Froome, Alberto Contador and Vincenzo November and came into the the game, but only seriously the game in the second-half with sheet and move four points clear the peloton. The start of the stage was Nibali are not involved, whilst Movistar game having lost just one of their threatened Jan Oblak’s goal next week’s Champions League of Valencia in the fight to make it last eight La Liga games, but were when Chory Castro’s powerful delayed by a five minute protest from teammate Alejandro Valverde is concen- quarter-final against Real Madrid back to the Champions League the riders in response to a serious crash trating on the spring classics. —AFP on the back foot straight away as shot forced the Slovenian into a in mind. However, they were still next season.— AFP IMF endorses Islamic finance Page 22

India’s RBI keeps Business rates on hold Page 25 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 Rolls-Royce Wraith KAMCO Investment Co holds AGM, Shafafiyah forum ‘Inspired by Film’ to arrive in Kuwait Page 26 Page 23

KUWAIT: A meeting of the 44th Arab financial institutes and the Arab finance ministers being held in Kuwait yesterday under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat FedEx to buy TNT for $4.8 billion Deal to help FedEx expand deliveries, make No 2 in Europe

AMSTERDAM: FedEx Corp said it will buy Dutch package delivery board. TNT’s largest shareholder, PostNL, also said it would tender firm TNT Express for 4.4 billion euros ($4.8 billion), aiming to take its 14.7 percent stake to FedEx. PostNL shares rose 17 percent. on bigger rivals United Parcel Service and Deutsche Post in Europe. European regulators blocked a 2013 takeover of TNT by “SMART MOVE” UPS due to concerns it would stifle competition, but analysts and UPS is fighting the decision by European regulators to block its executives said yesterday, FedEx, with its strong air fleet, would 2013 bid for TNT, but has said it will not rebid for TNT regardless of complement TNT’s expansive European road network. the outcome. In a note to clients, ABN Amro wrote that UPS had “This (acquisition) will dramatically lower our cost to serve said it wanted to make sure no precedent was set by the EU deci- European markets,” FedEx communications vice president Patrick sion. Fitzgerald said. ING analysts estimated that Deutsche Post’s DHL The regulatory block was damaging for TNT, which had been currently has a 19 percent market share in Europe, followed by counting on adopting much of UPS’s logistics backbone. TNT, UPS with 16 percent, TNT with 12 percent and FedEx at 5 percent - whose European market share has slumped by as much as 5 per- meaning the deal would catapult FedEx to second place. FedEx cent since the UPS deal fell apart, has cut costs, sold operations will offer 8 euros in cash per ordinary TNT share - a 33 percent pre- and invested in its road network to hold on to customers in a mium on last week’s close - in a deal that will give TNT customers weak European market for business package deliveries. access to FedEx’s global distribution platform. “There is no regulatory risk whatsoever,” said Kepler Cheuvreux Memphis, Tennessee-based FedEx is financing the deal pure- analyst Andre Mulder of the proposed deal, calling FedEx’s offer ly from debt - the latest company to take advantage of low inter- fair in view of TNT’s weaker market position. est rates. The strong dollar may also have helped: UPS’s 9.50 A rival bid from Deutsche Post was unlikely because it would euros per share offer was around $12.50 in dollar terms. risk hitting the 30 percent European market share ceiling UPS ran Compare that with FedEx’s 8 euro share offer, worth $8.75 today. into, he said. “FedEx made a smart move and their rivals can do vir- TNT stock leapt more than 30 percent yesterday towards FedEx’s tually nothing,” he added. FedEx’s decision to bid followed a 17 bid price. “FedEx has laid on the table an attractive offer price,” percent drop in TNT shares over the past year, versus a 21 percent said ABN Amro analyst Maarten Bakker, who has a “hold” rating rise in the benchmark Dutch AEX index. on TNT shares. TNT warned in February it expected tough trading to continue “With FedEx having always been the most logical predator of in its main western European markets. It forecast an operating AMSTERDAM: David J Bronczek (left), president and chief executive officer of FedEx Express, and Tex Gunning (second TNT Express, we see the chances of a competing offer as slim.” The profit for 2015 but expects at least 250 million euros in further right), CEO of the Dutch TNT Express, attend a press conference in Amsterdam yesterday regarding the acquisition of deal has been unanimously recommended by TNT’s supervisory restructuring costs over the coming two years. — Reuters TNT by the US FedEx. — AFP

Gulf boosted by stronger Results to show signs of strain in GCC banks

oil, Kuwait edges higher DUBAI: Lower oil prices are set to end a run listed lender by assets, reported an 8.6 per- was boosted last month when Dubai World of bumper earnings for banks in the Gulf, one cent increase in its first-quarter net profit yes- said it had gained 100 percent creditor of a number of headwinds as lenders report terday. Appetite for retail credit will be approval for its $14.6 billion debt restructur- MIDEAST STOCK MARKETS first quarter results. curbed by Saudi mortgage rules introduced ing plan. DUBAI: Major Gulf stock markets rose on the mostly on the back of low-priced speculative While the steep fall in oil prices is a con- last November, capping the maximum loan- However, lower oil prices-together with back of stronger oil prices yesterday, while shares. Gulf Finance House jumped 8.6 per- cern to banks, a more immediate impact may to-value ratio at 70 percent. Most banks pre- softness in the property and equities mar- Egypt began rebounding after a three-week cent in its heaviest trade since January 2014, be felt from retail banking rules, bad loan viously extended mortgage loans around an kets-may ultimately require banks to reverse bout of heavy profit-taking. Brent crude after a 15 percent leap on Monday. The Qatari worries and property sector weakness. 80 percent loan-to-value ratio. that downward trend, leading to additional jumped nearly 6 percent on Monday to index climbed 0.9 percent as petrochemical Lower oil revenues have yet to lead to a Some banks are already grappling with a provisions against a fresh wave of bad loans. $58.24 a barrel, its highest since March 27, producer Industries Qatar, sensitive to oil significant drying up of liquidity. Banks cap on retail fees, a move that has already It is unclear whether that trend may emerge although it partially dropped back to $57.52 prices, gained 2.4 percent and Barwa Real remain exposed if oil prices remain under dented earnings at Al-Rajhi Bank , the king- in the first quarter. yesterday. Estate rose 1.3 percent. pressure in the medium-term as deposits dom’s second-largest lender, since its intro- In Qatar, results are likely to be dented by a That was enough to trigger a 2.1 percent Kuwait’s market edged up 0.3 percent. from the government, quasi-government duction last year. Banks may also feel the slowing expansion in bank lending. Lending rise in the Saudi stock index to 8,802 points as Apart from Gulf Finance House, which fol- bodies and national oil companies provide pain from their exposure to troubled growth in Qatar has been a significant factor daily turnover more than doubled. The index lowed its Dubai-listed shares up, Ithmaar around 10 percent to 35 percent of their non- telecommunications firm Etihad Etisalat in supporting bank profits in recent years as rose further from chart support at the March Bank was a big gainer; the Bahrain-based equity funding, according to Moody’s (Mobily), which amounts to about 14 billion the state spends billions of dollars on infra- low of 8,497 points, which was tested and Islamic retail bank rose 3.4 percent. The stock Investors Service. “At the moment, local riyals ($3.73 billion), according to estimates structure and preparations to host the soccer held on Sunday, and may now be at least a has been strong since April 1 when the Gulf banks have been somewhat insulated as by Al-Jazira Capital. World Cup in 2022.Qatar National Bank will short-term bottom for the market. Dar Al- Daily news quoted chief executive Ahmed governments have huge reserves so can Lenders may set aside extra provisions, report earnings today. In Kuwait, the benefits Arkan, the most heavily traded stock, climbed Abdul Rahim as saying the bank expected to draw down from foreign reserves, foreign especially if they’re pressured by the king- of a tumbling number of non-performing 5.5 percent and Emaar Economic City jumped return to profitability this year. banks or local banks,” said Redmond dom’s regulator, which has been proactive in loans are likely to be offset by a slowdown in 9.7 percent. Both property developers were The Egyptian stock index, which sank on Ramsdale, regional director of financial insti- the past about making banks build safe- deposit growth, raising bank funding costs bouncing after suffering steep falls since late Monday to 15 percent below February’s mul- tutions at Fitch Ratings. guards. higher. Banks in Oman and Bahrain are most March, when authorities said they planned to ti-year peak, rebounded 2.5 percent yester- Banks in Saudi Arabia, home to the largest vulnerable to a drop in oil prices as their tax undeveloped land. day, although modest turnover was a nega- Saudi stocks rose across many sectors, tive technical sign. oil reserves in the Gulf, are naturally among LOWER PROVISIONS respective governments share relatively high with petrochemical firm Saudi Kayan up 3.4 Among major gainers, Global Telecom the most exposed. Chiradeep Ghosh, bank- Bank earnings in the United Arab Emirates fiscal break-even oil prices and lower reserve percent and telecommunications operator rose 3.9 percent to 3.43 Egyptian pounds, ing analyst at Bahraini investment bank SICO, are likely to be the strongest in the Gulf. A levels. But it could take a couple more quar- Zain Saudi gaining 2.4 percent. Dubai’s mar- breaking the end-March peak of 3.39 pounds. said he expected “flattish growth” for the strengthening domestic economy has meant ters for the more fragile economic environ- ket rose only modestly in early trade but This triggered a minor double bottom formed kingdom’s banks in the first quarter. banks have had to gradually set aside fewer ment to put the brakes on banks’ balance added to its gain in response to the Saudi by the lows since late March and pointing up Riyad Bank, Saudi Arabia’s third-largest provisions to cover bad debt. That process sheet growth. — Reuters surge. The Dubai index rose 1.8 percent, to 3.58 pounds.-Reuters WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 BUSINESS IMF endorses Islamic finance News in brief

Islamic lenders must tighten rules to prove safer OPEC price basket stands at $53.20pb NEW YORK: The International Monetary principles of risk-sharing and asset-based teria are that it has to be truly asset-based, markets department. VIENNA: The OPEC daily basket price stood at $53.20 a Fund has endorsed the principles of Islamic financing can help promote better risk man- and the requirements for risk-sharing that One positive sign, he said, is the growing barrel yesterday, compared with $52.92 the previous finance, saying it could prove safer than con- agement by both financial institutions and underly Islamic finance have to actually be use of profit-sharing investment accounts by day, the cartel said here. The average annual rate of the ventional finance, but the multilateral lender their customers, as well as discourage credit applied in practice and not just in principle.” Islamic banks; such accounts have loss- OPEC basket price for 2014 hit $96.29 pb, it said. The warned Islamic bankers that they must tight- booms,” the IMF said. Other issues which Islamic finance needs absorption qualities which help investors new OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up en rules and follow them more consistently. However, the industry could fail to to tackle include a shortage of tools to man- share risk. of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol A report released by the IMF this week achieve its promise - and even have a desta- age the short-term funds of Islamic banks, In the last two or three years, profit-shar- (Angola), Oriente (Ecuador), Iran Heavy (Islamic showed the lender’s growing interest in bilising effect - if it does not design its rules the limited scope of sharia-compliant finan- ing investment accounts have gone from Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export Islamic banking, which is expanding in much more carefully and implement them more cial safety nets for banks, and the need for around 2 to 3 percent of Islamic banks’ bal- (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar of the world. Last October, the IMF launched consistently, the report added. greater legal clarity on the rights of ance sheets to around 15 to 20 percent, and Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) discussions with an external advisory group Christopher Towe, deputy director at the investors, the IMF’s report said. they are continuing to expand, Norat said. and Merey (Venez). of Islamic finance experts and industry bod- IMF’s monetary and capital markets depart- Some of these issues are now being tack- “So we’ve seen an element of moving ies. ment, said in a conference call that there led by standard-setting bodies such as the towards a more fully risk-based Islamic The IMF’s report noted that because were worrying differences in regulators’ han- Bahrain-based Accounting and Auditing financial system, which is a good sign.” No UAE govt bond Islamic banking forbids pure monetary spec- dling of Islamic finance, particularly where Organization for Islamic Financial The IMF will continue working in Islamic law before end-year ulation and stresses that deals should be the industry was relatively young. Institutions (AAOIFI) and the Malaysia-based finance, conducting research and provid- KUWAIT: A United Arab Emirates law allowing the federal based on real economic activity, it could “Our analysis suggests that these stan- Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB). ing technical assistance to member coun- government to issue bonds is still being prepared and is pose less risk than conventional banking to dards are not being applied consistently, Last week, the IFSB said it had finalized a tries, Towe said. The lender’s spring meet- unlikely to be passed this year, a senior UAE official told the stability of financial systems. and this could either stifle the development standard on “core principles” for use by regu- ings in Washington next week will include Reuters yesterday. “It is still in the draft stages. I don’t This claim has long been made by propo- of Islamic finance or encourage its growth in lators as well as a guidance note on liquidity a seminar on Islamic finance, and it plans a expect it to be finalized before the end of the year,” nents of Islamic finance seeking to drum up a manner that creates systemic vulnerabili- management. global conference on the subject in Minister of State for Finance Obaid Humaid Al-Tayer said business; the IMF’s endorsement is likely to ties.” This standard will provide a coherent November alongside Kuwaiti authorities. on the sidelines of a financial conference in Kuwait. While add weight to their arguments. Towe added: “I think for Islamic finance to framework for regulators to use in handling The G20 group of nations has included individual emirates in the UAE issue bonds, legislation “Islamic finance may...help promote achieve the promise that we see it having, to Islamic finance, said Mohamed Norat, senior Islamic finance in its annual agenda for dis- would be needed to permit the federal government to do macroeconomic and financial stability. The reduce systemic risk, I think that the key cri- economist at the IMF’s monetary and capital cussion. —Reuters so - a step which could help to develop the country’s bond market and cover any future budget deficits due to low oil StanChart UAE CEO prices. However, the government has been discussing the law for years without producing a final version. becomes latest

executive to depart Pacific Control Systems DUBAI: Mohsin Nathani has resigned as chief executive of raises 1bn dirhams Standard Chartered’s business in the United Arab Emirates, DUBAI: Pacific Control Systems, a Dubai-based informa- the bank said yesterday. tion and communications technology provider, has Several senior members of staff have left the emerging raised 1 billion dirhams ($272 million) in 72-month markets-focused bank, which has been struggling after a loans, to partly finance expansion its plans. NBF Capital, two-year slump. Nathani, who joined Standard Chartered a unit of National Bank of Fujairah, was financial advisor in 2010 as chief executive of Pakistan, will remain at the for the deal. It was joined by Al-Khalij Commercial Bank bank during his notice period and ensure a smooth transi- QSC as lead arranger, National Bank of Fujairah said in a tion to a successor, the bank said. bourse statement yesterday. The syndication was a mix Viswanathan Shankar resigned as chief executive of of conventional and Islamic financing structures, the Europe, Middle East, Africa and Americas, and will step bourse filing said without giving details of pricing. Al down from the board at the end of April, Standard Khaliji France, Dubai Islamic Bank, United Arab Bank, Chartered said last week. Afaq Khan quit last month as National Bank of Oman, Ajman Bank and Sharjah Islamic chief executive of Standard Chartered Saadiq, the lender’s Bank also participated in the loan. global Islamic banking business. In the UAE, Bejan Roohi has also resigned as the bank’s managing director and head of origination and client cov- Saudi’s Riyad Bank Q1 erage for Abu Dhabi, Roohi confirmed to Reuters last net profit rises 8.6% month. The bank in October 2014 closed the accounts of thousands of small and medium sized business customers DUBAI: Riyad Bank, Saudi Arabia’s third-largest listed in the UAE in response to pressure from US regulators to lender by assets, posted an 8.6 percent increase in its first- cut its risk following an anti-money laundering settlement. quarter net profit yesterday, citing a rise in operating Its new chief executive, Bill Winters, is expected to over- income. The bank said it made 1.17 billion riyals ($312 mil- see a shakeup when he takes over from Peter Sands in lion) in the three months to March 31, compared with 1.08 June. — Reuters billion riyals in the same period of 2014. Income from spe- cial commissions and investments rose 4.2 percent over the same period to 1.28 billion riyals. Saudi companies KUALA LUMPUR: A man (center) talks on his mobile phone as motorists (below) and a mono-rail (top) Iran approved to join issue brief earnings statements early in the reporting peri- passing by in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. —AFP China-backed bank od before publishing more detailed results later. SHANGHAI: Iran has been approved as a founding member Iran oil officials in Beijing to discuss oil supplies, projects of the Beijing-backed Asian Infrastructure Bank (AIIB), China’s finance ministry said yesterday, just days after Tehran sealed BEIJING: Iranian oil officials are in Beijing the trading arm of top Asian refiner Iran was China’s sixth-largest crude oil the United States. a historic framework agreement on its nuclear program. this week to discuss oil sales and Chinese Sinopec Corp, and state trader Zhuhai supplier last year, behind Saudi Arabia, Iran also has stored a sizeable amount of Tehran’s application was backed by other founding mem- investments in Iran, just days after Tehran Zhenrong Corp, which started taking Angola and others, with sales up 28 per- cash in at least one Chinese bank, the Bank bers on Friday, China’s Ministry of Finance said in a statement and world powers reached a framework Iranian crude in the mid-1990’s when cent from 2013 to 27.46 million tons, or of Kunlun, because US sanctions have on its website. The United Arab Emirates’ bid was also nuclear deal, and with the OPEC nation’s oil Tehran sought to repay arms purchases about 550,000 bpd, according to Chinese choked the flow of funds. The deputy oil approved. minister due to arrive tomorrow. with oil. customs data. A new condensate deal minister said the officials are not in China More than 50 countries, plus Taiwan, have now applied to Iran’s Oil Minister Bijan Zanganeh is set The officials declined to comment between Zhuhai Zhenrong and NIOC is set to resolve the money issue. “The money join the bank in a diplomatic coup for Beijing after to make his first trip to Beijing since joining directly on any plans to market more oil to to lift China’s total crude oil contract vol- question will not be resolved unless the Washington initially opposed its allies becoming members. the then new government two years ago, China. Tehran and world powers reached a umes to above 600,000 bpd later this year. sanctions are lifted,” said Zamaninia. “China The United States and its Asian ally Japan have not sought to one Iranian oil official and a senior Chinese framework nuclear agreement on Thursday has a number of big projects in Iran, and join. But US Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew said last week that industry official told Reuters. last week, with details still to be worked out OIL INVESTMENTS we’re going to polish and resolve questions Washington was “ready to welcome” the bank, though he China, Iran’s largest trade partner and oil on how sanctions would be phased out in Chinese energy companies are also big about those projects,” Zamaninia told added it should complement existing multilateral institutions client, has bought roughly half of Iran’s exchange for reductions in uranium enrich- investors in Iran’s oil sector, and Iran has Reuters about the delegation’s visit to such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. total crude exports since sanctions against ment. been sweetening the terms it offers on Beijing. Iran’s approval-its application had not been previously Iran were tightened in 2012. Iran, once the Iran, the world’s fifth-largest producer, development contracts to counter worries Iran’s Oil Minister Zanganeh has also announced-comes immediately after the nuclear deal that No.2 exporter of the Organization of the hopes to boost its exports by as much as caused by sanctions and low crude prices. met with Western oil executives at recent China helped to broker. Under the outline nuclear deal, the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), is one million barrels per day (bpd) in just two Chinese energy giants China National OPEC meetings in Vienna, including Italy’s United States and the European Union are to lift all nuclear- looking to ramp-up its exports quickly after months once sanctions against it are lifted, Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), Sinopec Eni, Royal Dutch Shell and Austrian oil and related sanctions on Iran once the UN atomic agency has ver- sanctions are lifted. Ahead of Zanganeh’s although analysts say it will take longer. “It Group and China National Offshore Oil gas group OMV. ified that Tehran has stuck to its terms. visit, Amir-Hossein Zamaninia, Iran’s deputy depends first on the willingness of the Corporation (CNOOC) have already inked China’s investments in Iran include proj- The proposed limits will see Iran’s stocks of highly oil minister for commerce and international Chinese for buying Iranian crude, then preliminary pacts with Iran on develop- ects such as the $4.7 billion phase 11 devel- enriched uranium cut by 98 percent for 15 years, while its affairs said that he and his colleagues everything goes through commercial nego- ment projects worth tens of billions of dol- opment of the giant offshore South Pars unfinished Arak reactor will not produce weapons-grade plu- would discuss China’s oil and gas projects tiations,” said Mohsen Ghamsari, NIOC direc- lars, mostly under the presidency of gas field, which Iranian media says CNPC tonium. in Iran. Officials from state-run National tor of international affairs, of any increase in Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. pulled out of in July 2012, and the North There are concerns over transparency of the AIIB, which Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) will meet with China’s purchases. Iran’s oil exports have But Chinese firms have stalled or scaled Azadegan and Yadvaran oilfields. The dele- will fund infrastructure in Asia, as well as Beijing using it to China’s biggest crude buyers. been cut by more than half to around 1.1 back activities in Iran since around 2010, gation’s visit was initiated at the invitation push its own geopolitical and economic interests as a rising The NIOC and other officials are expect- million bpd from a pre-sanctions level of 2.5 fearful that unilateral sanctions from of China’s top energy authority the power. —AFP ed to meet with regular customers Unipec, million bpd. Washington would hurt their businesses in National Energy Administration. —Reuters EXCHANGE RATES

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. GOLD Saudi Riyals 80.460 US Dollars Mint 0.297450 0.301650 20 gram 244.350 Jordanian Dinar 424.925 10 gram 124.870 Asia ASIAN COUNTRIES Egyptian Pound 39.379 5 gram 63.120 Bangladesh Taka 0.003525 0.004125 Japanese Yen 2.527 Sri Lankan Rupees 2.254 Chinese Yuan 0.047140 0.050640 Indian Rupees 4.840 Indian Rupees 4.853 Hong Kong Dollar 0.036744 0.039494 Pakistani Rupees 2.949 UAE Exchange Centre WLL Pakistani Rupees 2.955 Srilankan Rupees 2.250 Bangladesh Taka 3.868 Indian Rupee 0.004596 0.004997 Philippines Pesso 6.770 Nepali Rupees 3.028 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000018 0.000024 Cyprus pound 738.965 Singapore Dollar 222.780 COUNTRY SELL DRAFT SELL CASH Japanese Yen 0.002432 0.002612 Japanese Yen 3.500 Hongkong Dollar 38.798 Australian Dollar 229.39 Kenyan Shilling 0.003242 0.003242 Canadian Dollar 242.57 Syrian Pound 2.590 Bangladesh Taka 3.865 Korean Won 0.000266 0.000281 Swiss Franc 316.56 Nepalese Rupees 4.000 Philippine Peso 6.779 Malaysian Ringgit 0.079431 0.085431 Euro 327.51 Malaysian Ringgit 83.660 Thai Baht 9.282 Nepalese Rupee 0.003049 0.003219 US Dollar 301.30 Chinese Yuan Renminbi 49.375 Pakistan Rupee 0.002819 0.003099 Sterling Pound 449.47 Thai Bhat 10.270 GCC COUNTRIES Philippine Peso 0.006738 0.007018 Japanese Yen 2.56 Turkish Lira 117.325 Sierra Leone 0.000066 0.000072 Saudi Riyal 80.232 Bangladesh Taka 3.868 Singapore Dollar 0.218530 0.224530 Qatari Riyal 82.658 Indian Rupee 4.820 South African Rand 0.019430 0.027930 Omani Riyal 781.680 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.251 Bahrain Exchange Company Bahraini Dinar 799.120 Nepali Rupee 3.015 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001884 0.002464 UAE Dirham 81.926 Pakistani Rupee 2.954 Taiwan 0.009597 0.009777 COUNTRY SELL CASH SELLDRAFT Thai Baht 0.008941 0.0009491 UAE Dirhams 81.91 Europe ARAB COUNTRIES Bahraini Dinar 799.72 Belgian Franc 0.007851 0.008851 Arab Egyptian Pound - Cash 41.150 Egyptian Pound 39.38 British Pound 0.441491 0.450491 Bahraini Dinar 0.792079 0.800079 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 39.342 Jordanian Dinar 428.11 Czech Korune 0.003982 0.015982 Egyptian Pound 0.039098 0.042198 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.404 Omani Riyal 781.40 Danish Krone 0.039899 0.044899 Qatari Riyal 82.97 Iranian Riyal 0.000083 0.000085 Tunisian Dinar 156.230 Euro 0.323102 0.331102 Saudi Riyal 80.26 Iraqi Dinar 0.000190 0.000250 Jordanian Dinar 424.670 Norwegian Krone 0.033791 0.038991 Jordanian Dinar 0.420596 0.428096 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 2.018 Romanian Leu 0.074236 0.074236 Syrian Lira 2.144 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd Slovakia 0.008944 0.018944 Kuwaiti Dinar 1.000000 1.000000 Morocco Dirham 31.134 Swedish Krona 0.031041 0.036041 Lebanese Pound 0.000149 0.000249 Swiss Franc 0.307714 0.317914 Moroccan Dirhams 0.021559 0.045559 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Turkish Lira 0.116687 0.123687 Nigerian Naira 0.001238 0.001873 US Dollar Transfer 300.750 US Dollar 301.050 Omani Riyal 0.775934 0.781514 Canadian Dollar 243.535 Euro 331.430 Australasia Qatar Riyal 0.081980 0.083193 Sterling Pound 449.920 Sterling Pound 449.575 Saudi Riyal 0.079643 0.080345 Euro 328.685 Australian Dollar 0.223239 0.234739 Canadian dollar 241.660 Syrian Pound 0.001275 0.001495 Swiss Frank 286.250 New Zealand Dollar 0.220614 0.230114 Turkish lira 117.020 Tunisian Dinar 0.152664 0.160664 Bahrain Dinar 801.720 Swiss Franc 316.580 Turkish Lira 0.116687 0.123687 UAE Dirhams 82.340 America Australian Dollar 230.370 UAE Dirhams 0.080984 0.082133 Qatari Riyals 83.515 Canadian Dollar 0.235935 0.244435 US Dollar Buying 299.550 US Dollars 0.296850 0.301350 Yemeni Riyal 0.001360 0.001440 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 BUSINESS Rolls-Royce Wraith ‘Inspired by Film’ to arrive in Kuwait in June

KUWAIT: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has unveiled the new Wraith ‘Inspired by Film’ edition, which debuted yesterday at the 2015 New York Auto Show, and is now available to order for Rolls-Royce customers in Kuwait for a limit- ed time through Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive, the sole authorized dealer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and the official importer of BMW and MINI in Kuwait. Wraith ‘Inspired by Film’ celebrates Rolls- Royce’s long heritage in film, with the pinnacle of automotive luxury taking leading roles in movies since the dawn of film-making, featur- ing in hits such as Goldfinger (1964), The Yellow Rolls-Royce (1964), The Thomas Crowne Affair (1968) and The Great Gatsby (both the 1974 original and its remake in 2013) to name a few. This limited edition also celebrates the acceptance of the ground-breaking Rolls- Royce Motor Cars Wraith launch film, ‘And the World Stood Still’, into the BFI (British Film Institute) National Archive, the world’s most significant collection of film and TV. The film, which won a Gold Award at the 26th International Visual Communications Association (IVCA) Awards, caught the atten- tion of the BFI’s Senior Curator for Non-Fiction Films, Patrick Russell, who considered it a strik- ing piece of contemporary cinematography and so decided to accept it into the archive. “We are delighted to see Rolls-Royce’s Wraith launch film enter the BFI’s collection,” commented Russell. “We selected it for preser- vation as it is an outstanding and award-win- ning example of modern corporate promo- tional filmmaking. It’s a powerful use of the film medium for product launch purposes, executed with impeccable craftsmanship.” Marc Mielau, Global Head of Marketing, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said, “It is a great hon- or to see ‘And the World Stood Still’ accepted into the BFI National Archive. It is testament to Rolls-Royce’s unique position in the public consciousness as the makers of ‘The Best Car in the World’ and the passion, innovation and creativity of the entire team involved.” The film, ‘And the World Stood Still’, intro- duced Wraith as the most powerful and tech- nologically-advanced Rolls-Royce in history. Filmed at a secret location near Barcelona, the shoot included an innovative ‘Timeslice’ (frozen time) sequence created using 100 SLR Wraith ‘Inspired by Film’ Ecstasy plays the femme fatale to the leading Casden Tan exudes confidence and power like base, wider rear track and 624 bhp/465 kW cameras; the longest purpose-built camera rig Continuing the theme of “And the World man, as he follows in her wake on an unex- a modern super-hero’s costume, whilst its derived from the twin turbo V12 and a 0- in Europe; an award-winning film director; 36 Stood Still”, this Wraith is a true hero car,hint- pected adventure every time he takes the steely character is suggested by a pin sharp 60mph of 4.4 seconds (0-100kph, 4.6 seconds) computers; 1.5km of cables and one prototype ing gently at the (film) noir through a number wheel. aluminium band shooting through the give expression to the car’s dynamic looks. The Rolls-Royce Wraith. A behind the scenes film of unique Bespoke touches. Life imitates art as Wraith’s coach doors open to reveal the Maccassar Ebony open pore panelling. swept lines of the fastback body of Wraith, a was also launched after the Company was the silver screen is reflected through a unique hero’s interior life, which proves more colour- Wraith is the most powerful Rolls-Royce style whose origins can be found in the 1930s inundated with requests from fans across two-tone Silver and Jubilee Silver paint ful than its exterior would suggest. The ever made. Performance complements the era of film noir, most clearly signal its purpose- social media networks worldwide. scheme, whilst a solid-silver hand-cast Spirit of Anthracite leather interior accented with drama of exterior styling asa shorter wheel- ful character. Saudi growth forecast to slow to 2.8% in 2015

NBK ECONOMIC REPORT KUWAIT: Saudi Arabia’s economic growth is projected to slow in 2015 The overall unemployment rate among Saudi nationals has declined billion. (This compares well with the 13 percent drop in reserves, to 2.8 percent from 3.6 percent in 2014. Output gains from the oil sec- from 12.2 percent in 1Q2012 to 11.6 percent in 4Q2014. 7)and the equivalent to $56 billion, seen over the course of eight months during tor are likely to be negligible while growth in the non-oil economy is female participation rate has also improved, from 12 percent in 2009 the 2008-9 oil price downturn.) Having slowed over the last few projected to moderate, but remain very healthy, in the context of a to 17.6 percent in the first half of 2014. The youth unemployment rate months, bank deposit growth accelerated slightly in Februaryby11.2 tighter fiscal environment brought about by the decline in oil prices. (ages:20-29) remains stubbornly high at 27.8 percent, however. percent y/y. The slowdown had encompassed both the public and pri- With substantial government reserves of more than $730 billion The ‘Nitaqat’ program of “Saudization” also looks to be slowly bear- vate sectors and led to an increase in the loan-to-deposit ratio to 81.6 and low public debt, the authorities can pursue countercyclical poli- ing fruit. The number of Saudis employed in the private sector percent. While deposit growth over the next few months is expected cies during the current downturn and continue to support the domes- increased from 10.9 percent in 2011 to 15.2 percent in 2013. to increase as a result of the extra bonus payments, growth in 2015 is tic economy through investments in infrastructure and spending on Significantly, Saudi employment growth in the private sector has been likely to trail the increase in previous years due to the impact of low oil the development plan-even at the expense of running a projected fis- outpacing expatriate growth over the last few years. prices, which invariably transmit through the banking system as lower cal deficit in 2015 and 2016. Investing in education and boosting government deposits. employment and the private sector remain key government priorities. Inflation to ease in 2015 Consumer activity should remain vibrant, facilitated by continuing Inflation is expected to remain relatively muted in 2015, having Geopolitical concerns credit growth, although this along with deposit growth is likely to trail slowed for the fifth consecutive month in February, to 2.1 percent y/y. Since the middle of March, the Saudi stock market’s general index, the double-digit increases of previous years as a result of lower oil Inflationary impulses stemming from the largest components of Saudi the Tadawul All-Share Index (TASI), has been in retreat, paring back prices. Meanwhile, inflationary impulses are muted, especially interna- Arabia’s cost of living index, housing, food and transportation, have some of the gains it recorded in February when the market responded tional food prices. The opening of the Saudi bourse to foreign invest- been relatively subdued. (Chart 9.) While housing costs are the most positively to the rally in oil prices. As of 6 April, TASI was up 3.4 percent ment in 2015 should boost sentiment and support asset prices. likely to exert upward pressure in the near to medium term, given the year-to-date to 8,618. A number of factors including the kingdom’s Unchanged Saudi oil production in 2015 should lead to negligible continued shortage of homes, overall inflation should be held in check military intervention in neighboring Yemen and the recent preliminary gains in oil output Where oil sector output in 2014 benefited from an by a combination of relatively low international food and commodity nuclear agreement between Iran and the West have been negatively increase in hydrocarbon production, of 0.8 percent, and the commis- prices, moderating fiscal and monetary conditions and the prospect of affecting market sentiment in recent weeks. The Saudi bourse is still sioning of a new refinery at Jubail, 2015 is likely to see flat growth. lower import costs thanks to a strengthening US dollar/SAR. Overall, the best performing in the region, however, and should get a further headline inflation is projected to average 2.4 percent in 2015, rising boost in 2015 with the opening of the stock market to foreign NBK estimates slightly to 2.6 percent the following year. investors. Saudi oil production is expected to remain broadly unchanged at around 9.7 mb/d, consistent with the authorities’ unstated aim of pre- Rationalization of spending likely serving market share as well as with the need to push out marginal oil The Saudi authorities, after unveiling another expansionary budg- production, especially North American shale/tight oil production. et for 2015 and an additional spending package worth $32 billion There may be some scope for Saudi output increases, however, per- upon King Salman’s accession earlier in February have clearly signaled haps in the region of 50-100,000 b/d, to compensate for rising domes- their intention to maintain their spending commitments and to cush- tic energy consumption and to offset potential further declines in out- ion their economy from the decline in oil prices. This is even at the put among OPEC producers, especially Libya. expense of running only their third fiscal deficit since 2002. While the 2015 budget predicts a fiscal deficit of 5.9 percent of The non-oil economy GDP on the back of a 16.4 percent decline in revenues and only a mar- Despite expectations of a slowdown in the non-oil economy as a ginal increase of 0.6 percent in spending compared to the previous result of the tighter fiscal environment, government spending will year’s budget, actual outcomes are likely to be substantially different. remain relatively strong, thus buffering the domestic economy. On the revenue side, low oil prices and flat oil production growth Spearheaded by the government’s investment and diversification should see fiscal revenues decline by almost 30 percent compared to plan, estimated to be in the region of $1.1 trillion and which aims to last year. Expenditures, on the other hand, are projected to increase by stimulate employment, consumer demand and private sector activity, 10.6 percent as a result of King Salman’s bonus salary payments and non-oil sector output is forecast to grow by 4.5-4.6 percent in 2015 the impact of the 13th Islamic month. and 2016, from 5.1 percent in 2014. Key metrics of consumer and proj- Moreover, actual spending has regularly overshot the budget by at ect activity such as point-of-sale transactions (POS), the Purchasing least 27 percent on average during the last five years, and 2015 should Managers’ Index (PMI), private sector credit growth and industrial pro- see this trend continue albeit at a more restrained pace owing to some duction continue to point to a quite buoyant non-oil sector. The latest rationalization in non-essential capital expenditures. Spending is data on POS transactions and cash withdrawals showed increases unlikely to be drastically cut in view of the government’s role as the of42.5 percent y/y and 43.4 percent in February, respectively. (Chart 3.) lynchpin of the Saudi economy. Domestic socio-political considera- March’s headline PMI figure of 60.1 was comfortably above the 50.0 tions will invariably weigh on the authorities’ thinking as well. This will no-change level, with private sector firms noting strong output, new bring the deficit closer to 16 percent of GDP in 2015. orders and export orders as well as hiring. Nevertheless, the authorities will reckon that with more than $400 Similarly, private sector credit growth, despite moderating over the billion in government deposits and $734 billion in reserve assets at the last four months, was still a healthy 11.4 percent y/y in February. Credit central bank, which is enough to cover almost two years’ worth of gov- to the construction, commerce and manufacturing sectors, for exam- ernment spending and three years’ worth of imports (at 2014 levels), ple, was increasing by around 10 percent y/y, while mortgage and real respectively, there are sufficient fiscal buffers to finance the deficit and estate lending, to both consumers and businesses, expanded by a sustain spending during a period of low oil prices. Low public debt of robust 31 percent y/y at the end of 2014. less than 2 percent of GDP also provides the authorities with the Government reforms aimed at tackling unemployment look to be option of tapping the debt markets. Foreign reserves were indeed progressing, albeit slowly Labor market reforms undertaken by the drawn down over the last few months. From a high of $745 billion in Ministry of Labor to address high unemployment and low female par- August in 2014, reserves dropped by 14.1 billion, or 1.9 percent, to ticipation among Saudi nationals are slowly yielding positive results. $731 billion in December 2014 before rising slightly in January to $733 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 BUSINESS Europe shares rise after FedEx/TNT deal

LONDON/PARIS: European shares rose yester- group Vivendi’s offer to buy Orange’s video- “The disappointment on the US jobs figures move over the weekend by Athens’ gov- Evan Lucas of IG Markets in a report. “It’s a day as FedEx’s 4.4 billion euro ($4.8 billion) bid sharing website Dailymotion, with the two is prompting investors to rethink the scenario of ernment to calm concerns that the country simple idea: make people feel wealthier for Dutch package delivery firm TNT Express stocks gaining 1.2 percent and 0.9 percent a first rate hike in June, which is good news for might default on a loan. Greece’s Athex and they will consume more,” Lucas said. prompted a rally in the shares of other postal respectively. the market,” Barclays France portfolio manager index was 0.3 percent higher. “It is why the market is pricing in an companies. TNT stock jumped 30 percent, while At 1053 GMT, the FTSEurofirst 300 index of Philippe Cohen said. Bucking the trend, flag-carrying airlines, October move and why most now believe, PostNL-TNT’s largest shareholder, which has said top European shares was up 1.3 percent at “Now the focus is about to shift to the US known by some analysts as “legacies”, Air as Mr. Dudley himself stated, that the rate it would tender its 14.7 percent stake in the 1,607.89 points, tracking a rally on Wall Street earnings season.” Also boosting the mood yes- France, IAG and Air France-KLM fell rise will be shallow.” FedEx offer-surged 13 percent. Royal Mail, after Friday’s surprisingly weak US jobs data terday, data showed manufacturing activity between 0.9 percent and 2.2 percent after CENTRAL BANKS: Australia’s central Deutsche Post and Kuehne & Nagel gained 1.5- sparked expectations the Federal Reserve could across the euro-zone accelerated faster than downgrades by JP Morgan. bank left its key interest rate unchanged at 2.7 percent. hold off longer on raising interest rates. France’s previously thought last month, adding to signs “We are realigning our European Airline 2.25 percent, ruling out further stimulus at Signs that corporate takeover activity was on CAC 40, Spain’s IBEX and Italy’s MIB were up 0.9- the bloc’s economy is recovering. ratings with a clear bias towards LCCs least temporarily despite growing expecta- the rise were also highlighted by French media 1.3 percent, all hitting fresh multi-year highs. Greek shares rose as investors welcomed a (low-cost carriers), which we believe offer tions for a rate cut. The bank noted that superior risk/reward and continued energy prices have fallen and lending to growth potential while Legacies remain Australian businesses is growing. The bank exposed to unrelenting Middle Eastern left open the door for a rate cut later this competition and suffer from stagnating year, saying “further easing of policy may margins,” the analysts wrote in a note. be appropriate over the period ahead” to RATE SIGNAL: Investors were reassured foster growth. India’s central bank also left by a comment from William Dudley, presi- its leading policy rate unchanged, taking a dent of the Federal Reserve’s New York break after two quarter point in January branch, that rate increases will be “shal- and March. The Reserve Bank of India cited low.” That added weight to the belief that a strengthening economy and favorable the Fed will wait until the last quarter of inflation outlook. the year before raising its key interest rate. ASIA’S DAY: The Shanghai Composite The Fed has held rates at near zero since Index rose 2.5 percent to 3,961.38 and the financial crisis, helping to fuel a rally in Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 added 1.3 percent to stock markets. 19,640.54. Sydney’s S&P/ASX 200 climbed THE QUOTE: Dudley’s comment that a 0.5 percent to 5,926.00. Taipei, Singapore, negative reaction by stock markets to an Jakarta and Bangkok also rose. Seoul’s Kospi interest rate hike would “slow us down” was steady at 2,047.03 and India’s Sensex was confirmation the Fed has used mone- declined 0.6 percent to 28,332.83. Hong tary policy to create a “wealth effect,” said Kong was closed for a holiday. —Agencies

TOKYO: A man walks past an electronic stock board of a securities firm in Tokyo yesterday. Asian stocks rose yesterday after Wall Street gained on a jump in crude prices and expectations the Federal Reserve will put off an interest rate hike until late in the year. —AP Oil falls as Iran, China discuss more supply

LONDON: Brent crude oil fell towards $57 a said Carsten Fritsch, analyst at barrel yesterday on signs of growing over- Commerzbank in Frankfurt. supply as Iranian officials visited Beijing to Goldman said in a research note it push for more oil sales after Tehran agreed expected US crude inventories to top out in a framework nuclear deal that could lead to April and subsequently draw down at the lifting of sanctions. China is Iran’s 350,000 bpd during May-September, when largest trade partner and has bought demand for fuel to power cars and air-con- roughly half of Iran’s crude exports since ditioners is at its greatest. Still, the bank 2012, when sanctions against the Islamic said it saw little upside for its $40-a-barrel Republic were tightened. forecast over the next three months as Oil markets were also pressured by a inventories would likely rise again by Goldman Sachs report saying prices need- October, pressuring prices into 2016. ed to remain low for months to slow US oil “Prices need to remain low in coming output growth. months to achieve a sufficient and sus- Brent was down 80 cents at $57.32 a tainable slowdown in US production barrel by 0755 GMT. US crude was down 60 growth,” the bank said, adding that the US cents at $51.54 a barrel. Officials from the production outlook for 2016 made its state-run National Iranian Oil Company will forecast for $65-a-barrel oil next year look meet China’s biggest crude buyers includ- too high. On Monday, energy information ing Unipec, the trading arm of top Asian group Genscape said its data showed refiner Sinopec Corp, and state trader stocks at the Cushing, Oklahoma oil hub Zhuhai Zhenrong Corp, officials told rose by 169,000 barrels in the week to Reuters. April 3. Global oil markets already face a supply The American Petroleum Institute will glut with producers pumping over 1.5 mil- release weekly oil inventories data yesterday lion barrels per day (bpd) more than at 4:30 pm EDT (2030 GMT), while the Energy demand in the first half of this year, ana- Information Administration will publish its lysts say. data on Wednesday at 10:30 am EDT. US “There is a massive oversupply, stocks commercial stocks were seen extending their are rising and now we have the prospect of record build for the 13th consecutive week, a more Iranian oil coming onto the market,” Reuters survey showed. —Reuters Gold retreats from 7-wk top as dollar rebounds

LONDON: Gold edged lower yesterday as de Casa said. the dollar recovered and European shares “The next support levels are at rose, but uncertainty about the timing of $1,192 and then $1,182.” New York Fed a US interest rate increase kept bullion President William Dudley said the timing not far from a seven-week high above of the US rate rise, which would be the $1,200 an ounce. Bullion rose to its high- first in nearly a decade, is unclear and est since Feb. 17 at $1,224.10 on Monday, policymakers must watch that the US supported by a weakening dollar after US economy’s surprising recent weakness non-farm payrolls data fuelled expecta- does not signal a more substantial slow- tions that the Federal Reserve could delay down. an anticipated rate increase this year. Growth in US services sector slowed US jobs posted the slowest growth in in March to its lowest level in three more than a year in March. Spot gold was months, but the index of new export down 0.2 percent at $1,211.90 an ounce orders rose to the highest level in more by 1146 GMT, while US gold for June than two years. delivery slipped 0.6 percent to $1,211.70 But Asian physical demand remains an ounce. tepid at current levels. The premium for The dollar rose 0.6 percent versus a physical gold on the Shanghai Gold basket of major currencies, aided by Exchange was less than a dollar an higher Treasury yields, while European ounce over the global spot benchmark shares also climbed, denting gold’s yesterday, down from around $2-$3 last appeal as an insurance against risk. week as Chinese buyers returned from a A stronger greenback makes dollar- long holiday weekend. “The gold price denominated bullion more expensive right now for a Chinese consumer is not for holders of other currencies, while cheap, it needs to be cheaper,” said returns on US bonds are closely Victor Thianpiriya, analyst at Australia watched by the gold market, given that and New Zealand Bank. the metal pays no interest. Spot silver fell 0.7 percent to $16.85 Gold is likely to continue to depend an ounce, while platinum lost 0.6 per- on movements in the dollar and expec- cent to $1,166.50 an ounce and palladi- tations of higher US interest rates, um was up 0.3 percent to $769.25 an ActivTrades chief analyst Carlo Alberto ounce. —Reuters BUSINESS WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 India’s RBI keeps rates on hold over inflation fears Rajan expects banks to cut rates eventually

MUMBAI: India’s central bank kept interest rates the balance of risks on inflation, the RBI will unchanged yesterday, saying most commercial maintain status quo in its monetary policy banks have yet to pass on two previous cuts to stance in this review,” he said in a statement. customers in Asia’s third largest economy. Rajan told reporters he was confident banks After meeting in the financial capital Mumbai, would eventually cut their rates because of com- the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said the bench- petitive pressures “and the sooner they do, the mark repo rate-the level at which it lends to better it will be for the economy”. “I do not see commercial banks-would remain unchanged at an environment where credit growth is tepid. 7.50 percent. The RBI’s decision to hold rates had Banks are sitting on money, so to speak, and been widely anticipated by economists who said their marginal cost of funding has fallen. The SYDNEY: A pedestrian walks past the Reserve Bank of Australia in Sydney yesterday. it would remain cautious due to inflation con- notion that it hasn’t fallen is nonsense,” he said. The Reserve Bank has left interest rates at a record low of 2.25 percent it said yester- cerns, including the impact on food prices of Rajan has made controlling inflation a priority day. —AFP crop damage from earlier than expected rains. since taking the helm of the bank, resisting calls Rising food prices are a critical issue in India to reduce interest rates. Consumer price inflation Australia rates steady at 2.25% where even minor increases cause hardship for inched up to 5.37 percent in February from a MUMBAI: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) gover- its tens of millions of poor. But RBI governor year earlier, but the figure is still within the RBI’s nor Raghuram Rajan attends a news confer- SYDNEY: Australia’s central bank yesterday The Australian economy has struggled Raghuram Rajan said the decision was also target of between two and six percent. ence after the announcement of the first bi- left interest rates on hold at 2.25 percent as it exits an unprecedented mining invest- based on the fact that commercial banks have As well as inflation, the RBI has previously monthly monetary policy for year 2015-16 for the second month straight, but kept the ment boom that helped it avoid recession been reluctant to lower their own lending rates. said that further cuts were dependent on Prime at the RBI headquarters in Mumbai yester- door open for cuts amid ongoing weakness for more than two decades. The RBI has already cut rates twice this year in Minister Narendra Modi’s government contain- day. —AFP in the economy. With inflation low, the economy an attempt to encourage lending to businesses ing the fiscal deficit. The Reserve Bank of Australia said after expanding at a below-trend pace and the and boost economic growth to help create jobs The right-wing government swept to power soon and impact of a likely Federal Reserve rate its monthly board meeting that it was unemployment rate at multi-year highs, for millions of young people. But only a few of at general elections last May pledging to reform move will come into the picture,” said Rupa Rege “appropriate to hold interest rates steady the Reserve Bank cut the cash rate in India’s banks-saddled with bad loans and seeing and revive the economy. Nitsure, group chief economist with Indian engi- for the time being”. In February the RBA February to spur growth. lower profits-have passed them on to customers. The government has forecast growth for the neering giant Larsen & Toubro. slashed its official cash rate by 25 basis Analysts said while another rate cut was “Transmission of policy rates to lending rates last financial year at 7.4 percent, meaning the International Monetary Fund chief Christine points to a record-low of 2.25 percent-its possible in the next one or two months, the has not taken place so far,” said Rajan. economy is now outpacing China. “My feeling is Lagarde, on a visit to India last month, warned first easing in 18 months. central bank was still waiting to see “With little transmission, and the possibility the RBI will use an early June window to cut emerging markets to prepare for the impact of a “Further easing of policy may be appro- whether the last easing was a sufficient that incoming data will provide more clarity on rates, because after that, uncertainty of the mon- US rate rise. — AFP priate over the period ahead, in order to boost to the economy. foster sustainable growth in demand and “They’ve still maintained their easing inflation consistent with the target,” the bias,” said JP Morgan senior economist Ben RBA said in a statement. The Australian dol- Jarman told AFP. lar strengthened slightly to trade just “For a board that took a long time to get below 77 US cents, following financial mar- over the line to cut again in February, they ket expectations of a rate cut. The currency obviously want to give the last rate cut has weakened over the past few months as some time to breathe life into the econo- commodity prices plunged and the US dol- my. “They are sitting back and looking for lar strengthened. signs of that occurring.” —AFP Rosneft’s Sakhalin LNG plant delayed for 2 years

MOSCOW: Russian energy producer ment. A spokesman at Exxon’s headquar- Rosneft may have to delay development of ters in Texas also declined to comment. In its liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant on the May 2014, Rosneft and Exxon signed a deal Pacific island of Sakhalin for at least two to continue work on the LNG plant, which years, sources said, after prices fell and will be partly fed from gas produced at financing all but dried up due to Western Sakhalin-1, an oil and gas project in which sanctions. Exxon is a major investor. The delay is the latest blow to Rosneft, which has also been forced to suspend ROSNEFT HURT drilling at an oil project in the Arctic after State-controlled Rosneft has struggled sanctions imposed on Russia by the West financially under sanctions imposed a year over the Ukraine crisis halted cooperation ago over the Ukraine conflict, which have with ExxonMobil. Rosneft, which has spear- all but cut it off from financing from US and headed President Vladimir Putin’s drive to European capital markets. Sanctions rules increase oil and gas output and secure have also limited Western cooperation in Russia’s energy dominance, signed an exploring Russia’s Arctic, deep-water and agreement with Exxon in 2013 that aimed hard-to-recover oil deposits. Run by Putin at starting production of 5 million tons per ally Igor Sechin, the energy producer has year of LNG from 2018 at Sakhalin. run up record debts of 2.47 trillion roubles Russia is the world’s largest exporter of ($44 billion), much of it to buy out the stake natural gas but mostly exports it by of Britain’s BP in a joint venture in 2013. pipeline to customers in Europe. Once liq- It has since asked the state to give it uefied, natural gas can be transported by around 1.3 trillion roubles from the coun- ship to customers in Asia, helping fulfil the try’s rainy day National Wealth Fund to help Kremlin’s goal of finding new markets. finance various projects. The firm needs to BANGALORE: An Indian laborer carries a sack of onions at the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) yard in Bangalore yesterday. The Two sources with direct knowledge of cover around $16 billion in payments to ‘Bangalore Rose Onion,’ which is almost exclusively grown for the export market, has managed to get the coveted Geographical Indication tag the project said the 2018 target was no Western banks this year. and is the 217th product in India to get the tag. —AFP longer realistic. A source at Rosneft, who With fewer funds available after budget declined to be named because he was not revenues were hit by falling oil prices, the authorized to speak to the media, said the government has yet to say how much it can plant would most probably “be postponed offer Rosneft as it weighs the needs of sev- S Korea businessmen demand early for three to five years because of lack of eral state companies which have few funds and low fuel prices”. sources of financing. Demand for LNG in A second source said it could be delayed Asia surged between 2010 and 2014, but settlement of Kaesong wage row for two years. “This is not a surprise,” the since then prices have fallen. Spot prices source said. “The year 2018 had never been are now trading at around $7.5 per million SEOUL: South Korean factory owners called yes- by the state, which passes on a fraction in local preferential loans and tax breaks from the South seen as the final deadline. All the stuff British thermal units (mmBtu) from around terday for the early settlement of a damaging currency-to the workers. Korean government, which also effectively that’s happening - a decline in LNG prices, a $15 per mmBtu last year. wage dispute in the Kaesong joint industrial The South’s firms get cheap labor on top of underwrites their investment. — AFP slump in demand, the economic crisis - Valery Nesterov, an analyst with zone and North Korea gave a positive response, only confirms that.” Sberbank CIB, said he thought the project a businessman said. A Rosneft company spokesman said could start no sooner than 2020. “The proj- The North announced last month that it there had been no change to the project’s ect can be put into effect with substantial would unilaterally raise the wages of more than Russian industrial giant looks timeline: “Rosneft has not revised the terms support from the state, which is suffering 50,000 North Korean workers employed by 125 for the implementation of the far east LNG from a lack of funds,” he said. “I think the South Korean firms operating in Kaesong, just to Africa to boost exports project.” project’s implementation has been moved north of the border between the two countries. Exxon’s Moscow office declined to com- to the beginning of the 2020s.” — Reuters South Korea demurred, insisting that under a MOSCOW/JOHANNESBURG: Russia is pursuing makers about the selection of a company closely previous agreement employment conditions in costly state oil and platinum projects in Africa linked to Russian arms exports. the zone could only be adjusted with the agree- despite an economic crisis at home, hoping they ment of both sides. A group of 17 South Korean will bolster sales, including of arms, for business- WEAPONS SALES Ukraine’s worn out economy businessmen visited Kaesong yesterday for talks es hit by Western sanctions over the conflict in Uganda and Zimbabwe are not legally with North Korean officials, led by Chung Ki-Sup Ukraine. obliged to comply with the sanctions against to rely on agriculture in Q2 who heads the council of South Korean compa- Moscow has mostly focused on building ties Russia and both already have strained relations nies operating in the zone. with Asia since the US and European Union with the West. Rostec said the project was KIEV: A seasonal recovery in agriculture should cent expansion in agriculture, Ukraine’s GDP On his return Chung said the North’s officials sanctions came into force last year, but the launched in 2013, well before the introduction ease the contraction of Ukraine’s war-torn shrank 6.8 percent as industrial output con- responded positively when his delegation called Africa deals signal a desire to rebuild what was a of sanctions, and remained interesting in eco- economy to 10 percent year-on-year in the sec- tracted 10.1 percent because of the conflict for an early resolution of the wage dispute. big market for its weapons and technology dur- nomic terms despite them. ond quarter from 13 percent in the first quarter, between Kiev and pro-Russian separatists in “They promised to make efforts when we called ing the Soviet era. The drive by government- The first stage of the Uganda project will a Reuters survey showed. Fourteen banks and eastern Ukraine. Since it began last April, the for (early) settlement,” Chung told reporters, owned industrial giant Rostec, which includes require $2 billion and the second $1.7 billion, brokerages polled by Reuters said this year’s fighting has destroyed about 20 percent of adding both sides agreed that the row should be Russia’s monopoly arms exporter in its vast port- with the peak of investments expected in 2018- relatively good grain harvest, expected to reach Ukraine’s industrial capacity and killed more resolved as soon as possible. With the North’s folio, is complicated by the economic slowdown, 19, it said. Rostec did not comment in detail on 50.5 million tons, would keep 2015’s gross than 6,000 people. unilateral proposal supposed to take effect which has strained government finances and its involvement in the platinum-mining project domestic product from shrinking more than Since February, Kiev and the separatists Friday, South Korean owners are concerned their forced firms to seek state support. in Zimbabwe. Russian development bank 7.0 percent. “Positive performance in the agrari- have struggled to maintain a fragile ceasefire company managers might come under intense Lower commodity prices mean non-govern- Vnesheconombank (VEB), which is expected to an sector will become a supportive factor for accord, but new casualties are reported almost pressure to comply. ment Russian investors in Africa in the early provide finance for the project and is also under Ukraine’s economy in the second quarter and daily. “The Ukrainian economy continues to suf- Before crossing the border, Chung said the 2000s have mostly pulled out, but Rostec says it sanctions, only said a cooperation agreement beyond”, said analyst Olga Shubina of Credit- fer from the direct and indirect effects of hostil- businessmen were “in a dilemma” because they is on track to build a $4-billion oil refinery in had been signed by partners in the project. Rating. However, the gains will not be enough ities. The final resolution of the conflict remains could not simply reject the North’s demand. Uganda and a $3-billion platinum project in When the platinum deal was signed in to offset a 12.0 percent contraction of Ukraine’s uncertain”, said Olena Bilan of Dragon Capital. The South Korean government has urged Zimbabwe. The conglomerate, which controls September, Zimbabwe’s defence minister, industrial production, which has been dam- The conflict between Ukraine’s army and them not to yield to pressure from North Korea. hundreds of firms ranging from arms exporter Sydney Sekeramayi, said the southern African aged by fighting in eastern Ukraine. the pro-Russian separatists has directly affected So far Pyongyang has rejected Seoul’s Rosoboronexport to the world’s top titanium country was looking at possible weapons pur- Consequently, the government forecasts the less than 10 percent of the country’s territory, requests for official talks on the dispute, arguing producer VSMPO-Avisma, sees the projects as a chases from Russia as well. economy will shrink by 5.5 percent in 2015 but the government has failed to encourage it has no need to consult over its “legitimate” door-opener in Africa, particularly to its fast- While geopolitical rivalry with the West may compared with a 6.8 percent fall in 2014. the creation of new businesses and jobs in oth- right to amend working conditions. The North’s growing arms market. “Apart from proceeds play a role, Rostec may be inspired by China, “Although positive performance in some er regions. The number of people in the work- proposal would increase the average monthly from the project itself, building the crude oil which has spent years pouring investment and sectors is possible, GDP will remain negative in force decreased to 19.9 million in 2014 from sum the South pays for each worker-including refinery (in Uganda) opens markets for products loans into the continent to help meet its all quarters”, said Oleksander Zholud of the 20.8 million in 2013. allowances, welfare and overtime-from $155 to of all Rostec’s companies and Russian compa- demand for natural resources, although for International Centre for Policy Studies. About Even far from the front lines, many business- $164. In 2013 the North effectively closed down nies as a whole,” Rostec said in a statement to Russia, markets are the key. 70 percent of Ukraine’s territory is used for es are struggling from high taxation, a weaken- the industrial park for five months by withdraw- Reuters. farming, and the country is one of the world’s ing currency and rocketing inflation. The hryv- ing its workers following a surge in military ten- The company and its chief executive, Sergei SOVIET TRADITION top five grain exporters. It produces enough nia has lost 30 percent of its value against the sions. Many South Korean firms operating there, Chemezov, an ally of President Vladimir Putin, Rostec says it is interested in working with food for its population of 43 million. dollar since the start of the year, after a 50 per- mostly manufacturers of low-priced household face sanctions over Russia’s annexation of the African countries that want to develop their Agriculture’s contribution to the economy cent decline last year. goods, are still reeling from financial losses dur- Crimea region and Western accusations, which defence sector. Moscow was an active supplier rises from April to October, months of peak Ukraine’s average monthly wage shrank to ing the shutdown. Kaesong opened in 2004 and Moscow denies, of supplying separatists with of weapons to Africa before the collapse of the activity on Ukraine’s farms. Its percentage of 150 dollars in February 2015 from 320 dollars in has survived repeated inter-Korean crises that weapons and troops. Soviet Union, when it lost the bulk of its market GDP rises to 5 percent in the second quarter the same month last year. This hit people’s pur- closed down every other avenue of cooperation. RT Global Resources, a 100-percent owned share. It is now the world’s second-largest arms and to 18 percent in the third from less than 1 chasing power and, according to the State But the North’s decision to pull out its work- Rostec subsidiary, won the contract to build and exporter behind the United States but sales to percent in the first quarter. Industry’s share Statistics Service data, the volume of retail force in 2013 took most by surprise, especially as operate the refinery in February, raising con- Africa make up a relatively small fraction of its remains largely stable at 20 to 21 percent trade fell by 11.2 percent year-on-year in it was the North that reaped the greater benefit cerns among some Ugandan opposition law- total sales volume.—Reuters throughout the year. In 2014, despite a 2.8 per- January-February 2015.—Reuters from Kaesong. The hard currency wages are kept BUSINESS WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 KAMCO Investment Co holds AGM, annual Shafafiyah Investors forum Company reports net profit of KD 1.96 million in 2014

KUWAIT: KAMCO Investment Company KSC Innovative investment funds It is worth noting KAMCO’s role as a financial (Public) held its annual general assembly meet- The Company’s managed funds operational advisor to Burgan Bank’s capital increase. The ing (AGM) and its annual Shafafiyah Investor’s growth continued to be very active with the Company also advised one of the leading enti- Forum at the Chairman’s Club in KIPCO Tower offering initiation of KAMCO Real Estate Yield ties in Kuwait in successfully completing its cor- yesterday. Fund (KREYF), which focuses on building an porate and debt restructuring of USD 120 mil- investment portfolio in income yielding real lion. Along with expected economic and politi- General Assembly estate assets that in turn creates solid returns to cal stability and with more government spend- During the general assembly meeting, the fund investors. The fund operates with a ing expected on infrastructural development KAMCO’s board members presented the compa- monthly subscription plan and has Burgan Bank and subsequent increase in transactions across ny’s financial earnings report for the year ended and Gulf Bank as its distribution agents. The different sectors and corporate debt issuances in December 31, 2014 and agreed to a 5 cash divi- fund executed a number of initial investments Kuwait, there is potential for growth in demand dends (5 fils per share) distribution to registered and closed the first 10 months with profit. for investment banking in the coming period, shareholders. Another new fund at KAMCO that obtained especially when these plans are successful in approval from CMA for was the KAMCO MENA correctly involving the private sector. Shafafiyah forum Fixed Income Fund (KMPFIF). This fund offers rel- KAMCO Investment Company held its annual atively higher returns as compared to returns of Wealth in workforce Shafafiyah forum which served as a platform for the bank short term and has Burgan Bank as its KAMCO’s human resources team continued the company’s executive management to pres- distribution agent. Meanwhile, KAMCO GCC to deliver an integrated approach to resourcing, AUB appoints Moataz ElRafie ent the main events in2014 as well as its outlook Opportunistic Fund, which invests in shares of performance, talent management and leader- for 2015 to shareholders, partners, as well as companies listed in the stock exchanges of GCC ship. The Company believes that its people and institutional investors. This forum represents our as Senior Deputy CEO high commitment in international standards in terms of transparency and corporate gover- KUWAIT: Ahli United Bank (AUBK) announced ing banks. Moataz was awarded his BA degree nance. the appointment of Moataz ElRafie as Senior in business administration from Cairo Deputy CEO for the Banking Group comprising University and he is also a Chartered Financial Financial results of Corporate Banking, investment, Retail, Analyst (CFA). In a press release, Ahli United Entisar Al-Suwaidi, KAMCO’s Vice Chairman, Private banking and Treasury Divisions, as of Bank (AUBK) stated: “We are greatly pleased to said, “Despite the various challenges that influ- March 2015. announce the appointment of Moataz ElRafie enced the local and global economies, specifi- Moataz joined AUBK in 2013 as the Senior as Senior Deputy CEO. We look forward to ben- cally in Q4, which led to the drop in net profits Advisor to the Chairman. He is a distinguished efiting from his expertise in executing the for 2014, the Company managed to maintain its professional with 35 years banking experience strategy of Ahli United Bank and promoting its operational profitability achieved in 2013. The acquired in senior and executive banking posi- performance to the highest levels in the com- financial results for the year ended December tions in a number of global and regional lead- ing stage.” 2014 recorded a net profit of KD 1.96 million (Earnings per Share of 8.2 fils) compared to a net profit of KD 3 million (Earnings per Share of 12.6 AlKhair Capital participates fils) in 2013.”

in Stock, Financial Continuous restructuring and operational focus Investment expo in Jeddah Faisal Sarkhou, CEO of KAMCO, said, “In 2014, we continued restructuring our balance sheets JEDDAH: AlKhair Capital, Saudi Arabia’s AlKhair Capital sat up a stall for the exhi- by exiting from non-core investments and leading investments institution, partici- bition stall to display all their offerings for reducing debt significantly by 17 compared to pated in the Stock and Financial visitors. “The Arabian markets have seen the financial yearin2013, and by 14 (CAGR) since Investment Exhibition from April 5- 7, steady growth over the past few years. 2007. In parallel, we have maintained opera- 2015 at The Hilton, Jeddah. But to make the most of this growth, it is tional growth, while strengthening our leader- The Stock and Financial Investment important for individuals to invest”, said ship position as an asset manager and an invest- KUWAIT: KAMCO Investment Company KSC (Public) officials hold the company’s annual general Exhibition was a remarkable event that Khalid Al-Mulhim, Chief Executive Officer, ment bank. The company’s AMIB profit increased assembly meeting (AGM) and its annual Shafafiyah Investor’s Forum at the Chairman’s Club in brought together major investment pro- AlKhair Capital. “Investing is the smarter by 9. There was also significant development in KIPCO Tower yesterday. fessionals and companies under one way of saving and it can help your wealth executing the Company’s strategic plans in roof. It’s an opportunity grow. Through this event, terms of launching innovative investment prod- countries, outperformed its benchmark and was teams are its most important assets. KAMCO fur- for people to learn about we aim to educate people ucts and services.” up over 22 in 2014. The fund has returned 51.6 ther developed its performance management the world of investing about the world of invest- By the end of 2014, the total volume of our since its inception in April 2013 up to date. approach and incentive schemes which are rele- and gain knowledge on ing and the best ways to managed assets climbed to a new peak of KD 3.5 vant to employees’ needs and are increasingly in how to make secure do it”, he added. Recently billion ($12.2 billion) compared to KD 2.9 billion Successful track records line with the latest international best practices. investments. The exhibi- AlKhairCapital ranked ($10.1 billion) at the end of 2013, recording a KAMCO’s investment banking services were tion aimed at raising 6thamongst the highest growth of 23. There was an increase of 12 in new affected by the weak business environment and Compliance- a key contributor to success awareness in various growing sharia compliant assets and 11 in existing assets under manage- falling oil prices which negatively affected KAMCO’s compliance and risk management trading methods and mutual funds in Saudi ment. This has made KAMCO one of the largest regional bourses, in turn negatively impacting team worked diligently to ensure compliance to drawing attention to the Arabia for 2014. The stock privately held investment companies in the the sourcing and execution of transactions in the new regulations by following up with the importance of this sector. exchange has also shown region in terms of AUM. Kuwait. However, the Company’s investment authorities to expedite the process and meet the The platform highlighted great ranks for AlKhair, Sarkhou added, “For our investment portfo- banking services continued to engage the advi- necessary standards which reflected on the posi- the difficulties faced by where the brand stood in lios, carful exiting was our main approach. We sory space in the financial, educational, health- tive performance of the Company. Owing to the financial market and 21st place in terms of did well to shield our investments and client care, industrial and Oil & Gas sectors. KAMCO’s commitment to regulatory compli- expert discussions on trade value. AlKhair investments from the severe Q4 related correc- Throughout the years, the Company achieved 82 ance, the Company became one of the first how to deal with these Capital Saudi is an invest- tions in equity markets. Moreover, we were able successful transactions with an underlying of licensed companies and its existing and new issues. Khalid Al-Mulhim, Chief ment company that is to successfully book profits earlier in the year USD 12 billion as of December 2014 (for more funds were among the first to obtain approvals A forum was also con- Executive Officer, AlKhair licensed and regulated by and raise cash to protect the invested capital.” than 10 years). and licenses from the CMA in Kuwait. ducted as part of the Capital. the Capital Market expo, which included Authority of Saudi Arabia. several intellectual seminars related to The major shareholder in AlKhair Capital the importance of the financial and Saudi is Bank AlKhair. Founded in 2004 Menacorp tops DFM’s list investment sector, along with the latest and headquartered in Bahrain, Bank developments in the stock market. AlKhairis an Islamic wholesale bank with Furthermore, there were four workshops subsidiaries in Malaysia and Turkey. The of brokers for Q1 2015 over a period of three consecutive days, Bank is also a major shareholder in Burj which included international and Saudi Bank, Pakistan. Bank AlKhairhas complet- DUBAI: MENACORP, the UAE’s largest financial feat for the company. The secret behind our suc- experts discussing the stock market, ed several landmark transactions since its services firm, has achieved another milestone cess is our client-focused services. We give spe- insurance and all forms of financial inception, including the establishment of after it was named the top brokerage firm from cial attention to our customer service and risk investments. t’azur, a regional Takaful company and among the 49 listed brokers at the Dubai management services to maintain our clients’ As one of the biggest names in the the acquisition of Bahrain Financing Financial Market (DFM) for the first quarter of confidence and trust in our capabilities regard- Saudi investment industry, AlKhair’s Company, the oldest and one of the lead- 2015. The award-winning investment firm less of the market conditions. This shows that we involvement didn’t come as surprise. The ing foreign exchange and remittance ranked first in terms of trade value and market put great value on establishing and sustaining brand had always been at the forefront of houses in the GCC. Bank AlKhairhas share for the first quarter of 2015 confirming its our long-lasting relationship with our roster of promoting healthy and gainful invest- received widespread industry recogni- 2013 and 2014 ranking, a feat that affirms its key customers.” ments. As part of their participation, tion for excellence and vision. leadership in providing world-class financial “Our latest number one ranking is also a tes- services to corporations, financial institutions, tament to our sound policies and strategies. Rest high net worth individuals, and government assured that we will remain committed to pro- US defense chief says influence entities. viding cutting-edge solutions delivered at the Despite challenging conditions that saw low highest standards of excellence and work ethics. at risk without Asia trade pact trading volumes over the same period last year, We will continuously strive to exceed our past MENACORP still performed strongly due its achievements in line with our mission to always PHOENIX: US Secretary of Defense Ash access to these growing markets and it robust business model. Its world-class expertise exceed expectations. “ Carter on Monday threw his weight risks regional instability. We all must in securities brokerage, financial services and Menacorp is one of the few UAE-based bro- behind the Obama administration’s bid decide if we are going to let that hap- financial research delivered in accordance with kers authorized by the Securities and to clear the way for a pan-Pacific trade pen.” its core values has consistently propelled it to Commodities Authority to offer Margin Trading pact, arguing that time was running out At least 35 countries, including key US the top position. and access to regional and international mar- and that without a deal, US influence and allies Britain, France and Germany, have Fathi Ben Grira, CEO, Menacorp, said: “Being kets. The investment firm is backed by one of the Asia-Pacific stability were at risk. said they will join the China-led Asian ranked as the top broker at DFM for the first largest and most diversified Emirati conglomer- Twelve Asia-Pacific nations have been Infrastructure Investment Bank, in a quarter of 2015 after being ranked first for two ates, the Bin Hamoodah Group, which is the trying to conclude a trade agreement potential setback to US efforts to extend consecutive years in 2013 and 2014 is a major company’s main shareholder. known as the Trans-Pacific Partnership its influence in the region. Carter spoke (TPP). But delays in the US Congress in at the university’s McCain Institute, finalizing the Trade Promotion Authority named after the family of influential Tunisia to sell stakes Euro-zone business that President Barack Obama needs to Republican Senator John McCain, chair- in banks amid streamline its passage through Congress man of the Senate Armed Services growth accelerates have raised doubts about whether it can Committee. McCain is a supporter of the budget pressures be achieved. TPP but has been a persistent critic of Speaking ahead of his first trip to Asia Obama on other issues. LONDON: Euro-zone business activity accel- since May 2011. That suggests a healthier KUWAIT: Tunisia plans to sell 10 to 15 percent stakes in erated in March at its fastest pace for nearly a outlook although the survey also showed as defense secretary, Carter said the US Writing in the New York Times on several state-run banks to raise around 1.3 billion policy of building Asia-Pacific stability Friday, two former U.S. officials said a TPP year as customers took advantage of ongoing companies have now been cutting prices for Tunisian dinars ($670 million), its finance minister said price discounting to place new orders at a three years, although not as sharply in March. and prosperity had succeeded because it failure would “further rattle” allies already yesterday as the country faces pressure to cut its fiscal rate not seen since mid-2011, a survey found. Euro-zone consumer prices fell again in concerned about US reliability after the had been a priority for both Democratic deficit. The North African state also expects to receive $1 The upbeat survey will provide welcome March, as expected, but the decline was the and Republican administrations. He 2013 US government shutdown and billion in loans from the World Bank and the news for the European Central Bank just smallest this year. That price-cutting helped called on Congress to pass the presiden- Obama’s failure to act on Syria. “The crit- International Monetary Fund this year, Minister Slim weeks after it embarked on a trillion-euro drive service industry activity up at its fastest Chaker told a finance conference in Kuwait. tial trade authority, saying the TPP was ics have exaggerated and distorted the asset-purchase program to try and spur pace in eight months. The March service sec- It faces pressure from creditors to cut high public one of the most important parts of the economic costs of the accord while all growth and inflation. tor PMI rose to 54.2 from 53.7, just below the spending, including subsidies on basic foods and fuel, Obama administration’s “rebalance” to but ignoring its benefits and the strate- Markit’s final March Composite Purchasing flash 54.3 estimate. through a series of politically sensitive reforms. The the Asia-Pacific and made “strong strate- gic costs of a rejection,” wrote Roger Managers’ Index (PMI), seen as a good indica- With the recovery gathering steam and gic sense.” Altman, a former deputy treasury secre- budget deficit is expected to narrow from 5.8 percent in 2014 to 5 percent in 2015, but that target has been tor of growth, stood at 54.0, a touch below confidence growing because of the ECB’s QE In fact, Carter said, passing the agree- tary, and Richard Haass, a former senior made tougher by salary hikes for tens of thousands of the preliminary estimate of 54.1 but well program, service companies were at their ment “is as important to me as another State Department official. public school teachers who went on strike last month ahead of February’s 53.3. A reading above 50 most optimistic since May 2011. The business aircraft carrier.” “It would deepen our A senior US official said economic and boycotted student exams to press wage demands. implies growth. “The PMIs are indicating expectations sub-index came in at 64.8 com- alliances and partnerships abroad and matters, including TPP, would be a large Tunisia has been praised as an example of compromise somewhat sluggish GDP growth of 0.3 per- pared with February’s 64.1. “With the ECB’s underscore our lasting commitment to part of discussions during Carter’s trip to politics and democratic transition since overthrowing cent for the first quarter. However, the impor- policy of quantitative easing also set to pro- the Asia Pacific,” Carter said in a speech at Japan and South Korea. Carter arrived on autocrat leader Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali in a 2011 upris- tant message from the survey data is that the vide a boost to the nascent recovery in com- Arizona State University, from where he Tuesday in Tokyo, where he will also dis- ing, holding free elections and drafting a new constitu- pace of expansion looks set to gather pace in ing months, the economic outlook is there- was due to head to Japan and South cuss a soon-to-be-completed update of tion. Before the teacher wage increases, however, it had coming months,” said Chris Williamson, fore brightening as we expect to see more Korea. US-Japan defense cooperation guide- already cancelled a tax imposed on travelers crossing Markit’s chief economist. upward revisions to growth forecasts for the “Time is running out. We already see lines that is set to expand Japan’s role in Libya’s border after the measure triggered rioting, high- Markit’s growth projection is slightly less year,” Williamson said. Detailed PMI data are countries in the region trying to carve up the alliance and the scope for bilateral lighting the problems the government faces to bolster than the 0.4 percent predicted in a Reuters only available under licence from Markit and poll taken last month. A sub-index measuring customers need to apply to Markit for a these markets ... That risks America’s interaction. — Reuters shaky state accounts. —Reuters new orders leapt to 54.1 from 52.5, its highest license. — Reuters WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 TECHNOLOGY

Australia clamps down on web pirates in ‘Dallas Buyers Club’ ruling

SYDNEY: An Australian court yesterday They told the court the IP addresses that customers’ email addresses should “The result is pleasingly what we gave ISPs 120 days to develop an industry ordered six Internet service providers to were used to share their film online using not be released. “The next step is identify- expected. By going through the process code that includes issuing warnings to release the details of customers who BitTorrent, a peer-to-peer file-sharing ing the users, and then what we do after we’ve been able to ensure that our cus- consumers who breach copyright laws. shared the Hollywood film “Dallas Buyers network. that hasn’t been decided,” Michael tomers will be treated fairly and won’t be Otherwise, providers will be hit with Club” online in a ruling that could set a “I will impose upon the applicants a Bradley of Marque Lawyers, who repre- subjected to the bullying that we have binding rules imposed by the govern- precedent for crackdowns on online pira- condition that this information only be sented Dallas Buyers Club LLC, told seen happen elsewhere,” iiNet’s chief ment. cy. The Federal Court of Australia said the used for the purposes of recovering com- reporters, the Australian Associated Press executive David Buckingham said in a Internet service providers (ISPs), the most pensation for the infringements and is reported. statement. “We’re very happy with Justice The code is due this week. prominent being iiNet-which has almost not otherwise to be disclosed without “I don’t know what impact it will have Perram’s judgment and his balanced Telecommunications analyst Paul one million broadband customers-had to the leave of this court,” Justice Nye on piracy. Certainly, Australia is one of the approach to both the studio’s and con- Budde said the ruling was disappointing hand over the names and physical Perram said in his ruling. jurisdictions with the highest rate of sumers’ rights.” Australia is one of the and represented a power shift towards addresses of the customers associated “I will also impose a condition on the unauthorised downloading and this is a world’s top illegal downloaders of televi- copyright holders and away from con- with 4,726 Internet protocol (IP) address- applicants that they are to submit to me first step from a copyright owner to try to sion shows such as “Game of Thrones”. sumers, without addressing the reasons es. a draft of any letter they propose to send change that balance.” The government is seeking to crack why people were downloading content. The IP addresses-unique labels to account holders associated with the IP down on online pirates. It introduced a “We are living in a digital world and applied to each device connected to the addresses which have been identified.” Illegal downloads bill last month that would allow copy- the reason why people are breaching... Internet-were supplied by the owners of However Perram also ruled Dallas Buyers iiNet also welcomed the decision and right holders to force ISPs through a copyright is not that they want to be the 2013 Hollywood film starring Club LLC had to pay the costs of the pro- said the conditions outlined by the judge court order to block websites that give criminals but that the content providers American actor Matthew McConaughey, ceedings and the ISPs’ costs of handing had “significant safeguards... in place to access to infringing content. are not providing the sorts of services Dallas Buyers Club LLC. over customers’ details. The judge added protect Australian customers”. The government in December also that customers want,” Budde said. —AFP

Destructive hacking attempts target critical infrastructure in Americas

SAN FRANCISCO: Hacking attacks that attacks could have been carried off without destroy rather than steal data or that their knowledge. The survey did allow manipulate equipment are far more preva- anonymous participants to provide a narra- lent than widely believed, according to a tive of key events if they chose, although survey of critical infrastructure organiza- those will not be published. tions throughout North and South Blackwell said that one story of destruc- America. tion involved a financial institution. Hackers The poll by the Organization of stole money from accounts and then delet- American States, to be released yesterday, ed records to make it difficult to recon- found that 40 percent of respondents had struct which customers were entitled to battled attempts to shut down their com- what funds. puter networks, 44 percent had dealt with “That was a really important compo- bids to delete files and 54 percent had nent” of the attack, Blackwell said. In anoth- encountered “attempts to manipulate” their er case, thieves manipulated equipment in equipment through a control system. order to divert resources from a company Those figures, provided exclusively to in the petroleum industry. Reuters ahead of the official release, are all Blackwell said that flat security budgets the more remarkable because only 60 per- and uneven government involvement cent of the 575 respondents said they had could mean that criminal thefts of detected any attempts to steal data, long resources, such as power, could force black- considered the predominant hacking goal. outs or other safety threats. By far the best known destructive hack- At security company Trend Micro Inc., ing attack on US soil was the electronic which compiled the report for the OAS, assault last year on Sony Corp’s Sony vice president Tom Kellerman said addi- Pictures Entertainment, which wiped data tional destructive or physical attacks came from the Hollywood fixture’s machines and from political activists and organized crime LIVONIA: In this March 27, 2015 photo, Detroit International Academy for Young Women students Tunzzina Chowdhury, left, and Papia Aziz listen rendered some of its internal networks groups. “We are facing a clear and present to Dennis Cabay, right, a team mentor, talks about their robot during the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, FIRST, inoperable. danger where we have non-state actors Robotics district competition in Livonia, Mich. Michigan has more high school teams competing in the annual contest than any other state. — AP The outcry over that breach, joined by willing to destroy things,” he said. “This is President Barack Obama, heightened the going to be the year we suffer a catastro- perception that such destruction was an phe in the hemisphere, and when you will unusual extreme, albeit one that has been see kinetic response to a threat actor.” College tie-ins allow more to anticipated for years. So-called “ransomware,” which encrypts Destruction of data presents little tech- data files and demands payment be sent to nical challenge compared with penetrating remote hackers, could also have been inter- join Michigan robotics craze a network, so the infrequency of publicized preted as destructive, since it often leaves incidents has often been ascribed to a lack information unrecoverable. of motive for attackers. A spokesman for the US Department of FIRST robotics contest Now that hacking tools are being spread Homeland Security, SY Lee, said the depart- more widely, however, more criminals, ment did not keep statistics on how often DETROIT: An increasing number of students Women. Aziz, a 16-year-old junior who wants to College of Engineering official who helped cre- activists, spies and business rivals are critical US institutions are attacked or see from Michigan’s most financially strapped urban be a pediatrician, credits the MEZ, as it is com- ate the MEZ six years ago. experimenting with such methods. destructive software and would not “specu- school districts, including Detroit and Flint, are monly known, with furthering her interest in “Everyone got outraged over Sony, but late” on whether 4 out of 10 seeing dele- joining robotics teams because local universities STEM, or science, technology, engineering and Professional engineers far more vulnerable are these services we tion attempts would be alarming. are making space and materials available at no math. She said she enjoys “figuring out ways to It’s not just the tools and space that make the depend on day to day,” said Adam US political leaders cite attacks on criti- charge. solve a problem” and the fun of competing. MEZ what it is. It’s also the people, Murabito said. Blackwell, secretary of multidimensional cal infrastructure as one of their greatest The University of Michigan started the trend Each team has access to professional engi- security at the Washington, D.C.-based fears, and concerns about protecting with its Michigan Engineering Zone. The 5,200- Competition neers as well as faculty, staff and students from group of 35 nations. essential manufacturers and service square-foot facility in Detroit, filled with two Competitions are nice, but success at them is the University of Michigan. The same is true at The survey went to companies and providers drove a recent executive order computer labs, a machine shop, robot testing not the ultimate goal, says Gail Alpert, the presi- Flint’s Kettering University, home to the recently agencies in crucial sectors as defined by and proposed legislation to encourage area and collaborative workstations, hosts 18 dent of FIRST in Michigan. opened FIRST Robotics Community Center. the OAS members. Almost a third of the greater information-sharing about threats teams from city schools. Many of them wouldn’t “They think they’re doing robotics. They have Unlike the MEZ, though, which is 40 miles from respondents were public entities, with between the private sector and govern- otherwise be able to participate in the FIRST no idea that the robot is just the vehicle to excite Ann Arbor, Kettering’s facility is on the school’s communications, security and finance ment. Yet actual destructive attacks or robotics contest. them about STEM,” Alpert said, adding that near- campus, meaning that faculty, staff and students being the most heavily represented indus- manipulation of equipment are infrequent- Michigan has more high school teams com- ly every student who competes in FIRST robotics who serve as team mentors don’t have far to tries. The questions did not delve into ly revealed. That is in part because breach- peting in the annual competition than any other graduates from high school. travel. While Kettering’s robotics hub is just get- detail, leaving the amount of typical losses disclosure laws in more than 40 states cen- state. But participants and advisers say that Of the 42 seniors who spent time at the MEZ ting going, the MEZ has been around long from breaches and the motivations of sus- ter on the potential risks to consumers beyond the contest, the teams further students’ during last school year, 38 went on to higher enough that it has reached capacity. In fact, the pected attackers as matters for speculation. from the theft of personal information, as interest in learning about related topics and education, while four joined the military. Either MEZ was forced to turn away teams this year, The survey-takers were not asked whether with hacks of retailers including Home keep them engaged in school. way, they all graduated. That compares with said Murabito, who is looking for additional the attempted hacks succeeded, and some Depot Inc and Target Corp.— Reuters “Michigan Engineering Zone is the greatest 2014 graduation rates of 78 percent for the state funding opportunities to expand the space. “It’s thing I’ve ever been to,” said Papia Aziz, the cap- and 71 percent for Detroit Public Schools. like an infection,” said Julian Pate, a retired Ford tain of a team known as the Pink Panthers from “It’s almost a miracle if you think about,” said Motor Co. executive who runs the MEZ. “They’re the Detroit International Academy for Young Jeanne Murabito, a University of Michigan bitten, and it doesn’t go away.” —AP France’s Vivendi jumps into obstacle race for Dailymotion

PARIS: France’s Vivendi has made an offer for bund economy. Discouraged by the minister’s comments, the Dailymotion after attempts by Yahoo! and a Hong Then last week Economy Minister Emmanuel Hong Kong firm announced Monday it had end- Kong telecoms giant to buy a stake in the video- Macron, a former investment banker viewed as ed its bid for Dailymotion. “The desire of the sharing site were thwarted by the French govern- pro-business, raised eyebrows when he came out French government to encourage the search for a ment. The offer from a French firm is likely to be against exclusive talks between Orange and the European solution discourages participation of more amenable to the government, in a country PCCW conglomerate owned by the son of Hong international companies,” PCCW said in a state- that is struggling to foster homegrown high-tech Kong tycoon Li Ka-shing. ment explaining its decision. champions at a global level as its numerous start- He acknowledged that the PCCW offer “could ups often end up being snapped up by foreign be a good option”, but “I want to be sure that we Tool for French influence abroad companies. don’t have a European champion that we can The government’s reluctance to give up The YouTube equivalent, which belongs to build onto this platform,” he told French televi- Dailymotion to US or Hong Kong firms has some telecoms group Orange, has long generated sion. PCCW had planned to turn Dailymotion into in France scratching their heads, particularly as it LIUYANG: This picture taken on March 12, 2015 shows employees working in the work- interest from companies far and wide but the a YouTube competitor in Asia, but Macron warned allowed the sale of a near 50-percent stake in the shop of Lens Technology in Liuyang, central China’s Hunan province. Zhou Qunshu, a French government has fervently protected its this meant the French video-sharing site would strategic airport of Toulouse to a Chinese consor- former factory worker who founded Lens Technology , a company supplying Apple, national technology jewel, saying it would prefer eventually turn into a Chinese platform. tium in December.—AFP Samsung and other technological giants with touchscreen glass has become China’s to see it remain in European hands. Quick-off-the- richest woman, reports said, with a fortune surpassing $8 billion. — AFP mark, Vivendi announced Tuesday it had made an offer to Orange for Dailymotion-one of the 100 Factory worker turned Apple most visited websites worldwide-though it gave no details as to the scale or amount of the bid. supplier now China’s richest The daily Le Monde reported that the French mass media multinational planned to buy up BEIJING: A former factory worker who 2013, according to Bloomberg. It put her nearly all of the video-sharing platform for 250 founded a company supplying Apple, wealth at $7.6 billion on Tuesday-before million euros ($270 million). Samsung and other technological giants the shares went up another 10 percent yes- with touchscreen glass has become China’s terday. Lens primarily makes touch-sensi- ‘European champion’ preferred richest woman, reports said, with a fortune tive glass covers for mobile phones, com- France caused a furore in 2013 when it surpassing $8 billion. puters and cameras. According to the Hong blocked a bid by US giant Yahoo! to acquire The wealth of Zhou Qunfei, chairwoman Kong-based South China Morning Post, its Dailymotion. Yahoo! Inc. had been in talks to buy and president of Hunan-based Lens covers are used in nearly 21 percent of the a 75-percent stake in Dailymotion, but the gov- Technology, soared after the firm’s debut world’s smartphones. ernment, which holds almost 25 percent of on the Shenzhen stock exchange last China’s unprecedented economic boom Orange, had insisted on a 50-50 split. month, after which its shares surged by has turned it into the world’s second- Then Industrial Renewal Minister Arnaud their daily limit for 10 consecutive days. largest economy and raised hundreds of Montebourg, a maverick widely viewed as anti- She claimed the title yesterday, Forbes millions out of poverty, but has also creat- business who has since been forced out of the reported. Zhou worked as a factory girl at a ed huge income disparities and rampant government, had said he blocked the deal different glass company before starting her corruption, with only a relative few accru- because the US firm was seeking to “devour” the RENNES: This picture shows a web page with the logo of video-sharing website Dailymotion own business in 2003. ing vast wealth. The number of dollar bil- French company. displayed on a computer screen yesterday in Rennes, western France. France’s Vivendi Now 45, she owns an 89 percent stake in lionaires in mainland China passed 300 in His move dealt a blow to France’s business announced yesterday it has made an offer for Dailymotion, which belongs to telecoms group the firm, which had more than 80,000 2013, according to the Hurun Report, a lux- image at a time when the struggling country was Orange, after attempts by Yahoo! and a Hong Kong telecoms giant to snap up a stake in the employees and revenue of $3.3 billion in ury magazine publisher. —AFP trying to attract investment and kickstart a mori- video-sharing site were thwarted by the French government. — AFP WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 HEALTH & SCIENCE Dutch horsemeat trader jailed for two-and-a-half years

THE HAGUE: A Dutch court yesterday year-sentence-suspected Selten of major “Butchers had problems and their repu- saying “mistakes were made in our book- accounting and fraud” after an extensive jailed wholesaler Willy Selten for two-and-a- involvement in the consumer scandal, tations were damaged,” the court said, keeping”. “I am not the big horsemeat probe.The NVWA then asked hundreds of half years for selling horsemeat passed off which prompted recalls of meat products adding that because Selten also traded swindler they’re all looking for. I was careless companies across Europe supplied by as beef during Europe’s massive 2013 meat from Ireland to Greece. Of 167 samples tak- internationally, he had damaged the Dutch with my administration, but not intentional- Selten who sourced the horsemeat from scandal. en by Dutch authorities from Selten’s meat meat industry’s image. ly,” he said in March. Ireland and Britain-to check their products. “As boss of two companies he (Selten) supplies in February 2013, 35 tested posi- “He saved money by buying cheaper The scandal erupted in Ireland and In April 2013, Selten failed to quash a mas- was guilty of forging invoices, labels and tive for horse DNA, the court said. horsemeat, mixed it with beef fat and sold it Britain in January 2013, when it was found sive order by the NVWA recalling 50,000 written declarations and using these forged “All these products were sold as pure as more expensive beef,” the court said. that frozen burgers supplied to several tonnes of potentially contaminated meat documents to trade meat,” the court in Den beef,” it added. Selten’s businesses Selten’s businesses are now bankrupt supermarkets, including the Tesco chain, that had passed through his plant. Bosch said in its judgement. processed at least 336 tonnes of horsemeat and the administrator has laid a claim of 11 contained horse DNA. Meatballs in Ikea Thousands of DNA tests on European Selten, 45, was arrested in May 2013 for between 2011 and 2012 although no million euros ($12 million) against him, the stores, sausages in Russia and frozen burg- beef products after the scandal revealed allegedly selling 300 tonnes of horsemeat horsemeat was mentioned on the books, court said. Selten’s lawyer did not return ers in Britain were pulled from the shelves extensive food fraud across the European labelled as beef, during one of Europe’s the court said. The sentence was based on phone calls on Tuesday. by the millions as a result. Union, with almost one in 20 meals biggest ever food scandals. the fact that Selten misled butchers that he At the end of his trial last month, an Dutch food and consumer watchdog marked as beef likely to be tainted with Dutch prosecutors-who asked for a five- supplied and, ultimately, consumers. emotional Selten protested his innocence, NVWA arrested Selten on charges of “false horsemeat. —AFP

Obama presents climate change as hazard to your health

WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama vide early warnings about infectious dis- will ask Americans to think of climate eases that could break out if climate change as a threat not just to the environ- change worsens. ment, but also to their health. Google has promised to donate 10 mil- Obama yesterday was to announce a lion hours of advanced computing time series of steps that private entities like on new tools, including risk maps and ear- Google and Microsoft are taking to better ly warnings for things like wildfires and oil prepare the nation’s health systems for the flares using the Google Earth Engine plat- inevitable effects of a warmer, more errat- form, the White House said. Google’s cam- ic climate. He was to be joined at Howard era cars that gather photos for its “Street University Medical School by Surgeon View” function will start measuring General Vivek Murthy and the head of the methane emissions and natural gas leaks Environmental Protection Agency, Gina in some cities this year. McCarthy. The Obama administration was also to Warning of the perils to the planet has announce a series of modest steps it will gotten the president only so far; polls con- take to boost preparedness, such as sistently show the public is skeptical that expanding access to data to predict and the steps Obama has taken to curb pollu- minimize the health effects from climate tion are worth the cost to the economy. So change. Obama is aiming to put a spotlight on Obama’s effort to link climate change to ways that climate change will have real health comes as he works to build support impacts on the body, like more asthma for steps he’s taken to curb U.S. emissions attacks, allergic reactions and injuries from that are opposed by business and indus- extreme weather. try, including strict limits on vehicles and Microsoft’s research arm will develop a power plants. The president is relying on prototype for drones that can collect large those emissions cuts to make up the US quantities of mosquitoes, then digitally contribution to a global climate treaty that analyze their genes and pathogens. The he and other world leaders expect to final- goal is to create a system that could pro- ize in December. —AP

BHUBANESHWAR: A health worker administers a polio drop to an infant in Bhubaneswar, India yesterday. Indradhanush is a nationwide campaign that aims to immunize all children against seven vaccine preventable diseases namely diphtheria, whoop- ing cough, tetanus, polio, tuberculosis, measles and hepatitis. —AP Minnesota reports 2 more bird flu cases

ST PAUL: Keeping wild waterfowl State veterinarian Bill virus, said Michelle Carstensen, had its first outbreak reported from spreading bird flu to Hartmann told reporters he’s con- wildlife health program supervisor Monday in a flock of about 26,000 Minnesota turkey farms won’t be fident farmers’ increased security at the state Department of Natural turkeys. State law prevents offi- easy, the state veterinarian said as measures will prevent any farm- Resources. They’re also watching cials from disclosing the exact officials announced the sixth and to-farm transmissions. for any reports of dead turkeys or locations. WASHINGTON: In this April 2, 2015, file photo, President Barack Obama seventh cases of the disease in the “As far as stopping this connec- birds of prey in the wild. The H5N2 strain has resulted in speaks in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington. Obama asked country’s top turkey-producing tion between the waterfowl and The state will also continue to the deaths of more than 300,000 Americans yesterday to think of climate change as a threat not just to the state. turkeys, it will be a challenge this monitor any poultry farm workers Minnesota turkeys, including environment, but also to their health. —AP Officials say it’s too early to spec- year,” Hartmann said. who had extensive contact with birds that farmers killed as a pre- ulate whether the highly pathogen- There’s no evidence the H5N2 infected birds, said Joni Scheftel, caution. Minnesota turkey farmers ic strain could hurt Minnesota’s strain spread between the seven public health veterinarian at the raise about 46 million birds annual- Second French artificial heart $750 million turkey industry. More Minnesota farms infected over the Minnesota Department of Health. ly, according to the Minnesota than 40 countries banned poultry past month, Hartmann said. That She stressed that the public is Turkey Growers Association. recipient says ‘recovered’ imports from Minnesota last means wild birds such as ducks “absolutely not at risk.” Three Hartmann said the virus thrives in month, when the first case was and geese, which can carry the flu turkey farms where infections the kind of cold, wet climates com- PARIS: A man who in August became the rejection by the immune system. It is pow- reported, though some have since but aren’t sickened by it, could be have happened are in Stearns mon in Minnesota during the second person in France to receive a much- ered by a belt of lithium batteries. narrowed the bans to poultry from responsible. County, in the south-central part spring migratory season. It has also hyped new-generation artificial heart said in The patient said the key was not to forget affected counties. Health officials State workers will sample wild of the state. The newest infected surfaced in Kansas, South Dakota, his first interview Sunday he had “recovered”, to charge the batteries. “I have a spreadsheet to the point of going on bike rides. in which I mark down the hours and changes, have said the risk to the public from waterfowl droppings around the flock had about 76,000 birds. Arkansas and Missouri. —AP The 69-year-old man, who wishes to to make sure they last as they should. It’s not the virus is low. infected farms to test for the Neighboring Kandiyohi County remain anonymous, was terminally ill with a complicated,” he said. heart condition when he received the trans- “To reach 100-years-old, if I can, why not?” plant exactly eight months ago in the west- Professor Daniel Duveau, the surgeon who ern city of Nantes. The transplant is part of a operated on the man, told Europe 1 radio on Texas lawmakers want to close key trial for a much talked-about artificial Friday that to his great surprise, his patient heart created by French firm Carmat, and the was even riding a bike outside. “As part of his first recipient — 76-year-old Claude Dany- rehabilitation, we made him do a number of ‘bypass’ for teen abortions died in March last year, 10 weeks after receiv- physical activities such as riding an exercise ing the experimental device. bike, and when we last met, he told us ‘of But the second patient has fared much course, I have a bike, a traditional bike and I AUSTIN: Texas, like many other conservative who is arguing to keep the current system. does not rule on a case within two days, the better. He was sent home at the beginning of ride but... don’t worry, I avoid big hills’,” he states, has strived to make it difficult for “To further obstruct access to a minor fac- girl’s application is deemed granted. The the year, and said Sunday in his first interview said. Duveau added that the patient, a black women to have abortions. Recent state laws ing a very traumatic situation seems, at best, percentage approved isn’t known because since his operation that he had “recovered” belt judoka, also wanted to resume the mar- have forced dozens of clinics to close and cruel,” Howard said. “Some of my peers don’t courts aren’t required to report statistics on and resumed his normal life. “I walk, I get up tial art, though his doctors had told him to left some regions without a place for women want to stop until there is no access to abor- abortion cases. The new legislation would and I bend over 10 to 15 times a day, without ask their permission before doing so. to go. tion, period.” limit applications to a girl’s home county any problem. I keep my balance. I’m not both- Nearly 100,000 people in Europe and the But Texas has one option that makes abor- Most teenagers who become pregnant require more substantial proof of her matu- ered. I don’t even think about it,” the father- United States are in need of a heart trans- tions relatively accessible, and that between talk to their parents if they want an abortion. rity and fear of abuse. of-two told the JDD weekly. plant, according to Carmat, which plans to 300 and 500 pregnant teenagers use every In some cases, though, doing so may be “We’re not trying to get rid of judicial “In fact, pretty much from the day I was carry out the first phase of feasibility trials on year. Instead of seeking parental consent to difficult or dangerous, according to groups bypass, but it should only be used in limited operated, I felt myself come alive again.” four terminal patients. The second phase will terminate a pregnancy, girls younger than 18 that work with pregnant teens. Examples circumstances, in very exceptional circum- The artificial heart uses soft “biomaterials” see around 20 patients receive an artificial can ask a court for approval under legal con- include when a teen’s father is in prison and stances,” said Fort Worth Republican Rep. intended to lessen the risk of blood clots and heart, according to Carmat. —AFP ditions less stringent than in many other her mother dead, when a teen has been Matt Krause, the sponsor of one measure. states. abused and fears her pregnancy would Another proposal by Republican Rep. Ron About 20 percent of the abortions per- prompt more violence, or when the teenager Simmons would require public disclosure of formed on minors in Texas in 2013 came is homeless or neglected by her parents. judges who grant judicial bypass applica- through this court process, about double the Under state law, a young woman can tions. The judges should “be held account- proportion elsewhere. apply for legal approval at a courthouse. She able by the electorate,” Simmons said in an Soon, though, the so-called “judicial has to prove to a judge that she is mature email. At least some of the new restrictions bypass” may become less accommodating. enough to make the decision, or that telling are expected to be approved by the Conservatives are now targeting the her parents would lead to physical, sexual or Republican-controlled Legislature. teenage cases as part of their latest legisla- emotional abuse, or that consulting them Susan Hays, a lawyer and founding board tive assault on abortion. New bills intro- would otherwise not be in her best interest. member of Jane’s Due Process, a nonprofit duced in the current session would make it that works with pregnant teens, said she harder for girls to prove they shouldn’t have Parents refuse permission usually encourages young women to talk to to seek parental permission and more diffi- Girls whose parents refuse permission their parents rather than go around them. cult for courts to give approval. “We don’t can also use the bypass process. The proce- But she said she understands why some want this to be a loophole for the abortion dure was established in 1999 to help Texas’ don’t. She described one young client who industry to shepherd girls through,” said parental consent law comply with Supreme was living with her grandparents and taking Elizabeth Graham, director of the Texas Court rulings mandating that parents could- care of younger siblings after her father had Right to Life organization, which helped n’t have an absolute veto over a daughter’s beaten and injured her. draft some of the 21 anti-abortion measures decision to end a pregnancy. She describes the girls typically as “Type A now before the Legislature. Courts shouldn’t But the rules drafted for the Texas process overachievers who want something better.” be used to “exploit pregnant teenagers,” she wound up being less onerous than those in El Paso Lawyer Karen Pelletier said none of ALLAHABAD: An Indian health worker fills up details of vaccination in a reg- said. many of the other 37 states with similar the 10 judicial bypass cases she’s handled ister after immunizing a child at a government primary school as part of But increasing the obstacles will only tor- laws. has been frivolous. “They’ve been dealt a ‘Mission Indradhanush’, a massive immunization campaign in Allahabad, ment girls who are already in crisis, said The teens can apply in any county, rather very sobering event in their lives, when they Democratic Rep. Donna Howard of Austin, than just their home county, and if a judge become pregnant,” Pelletier said. —AP India, yesterday. —AP WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 HEALTH & SCIENCE Chile health committee opens debate on marijuana bill

SANTIAGO: Chile’s congressional health committee use by minors if they are patients using the sub- medical situations when prescribed by a doctor and granted for a medical marijuana project in La approved a bill Monday that would legalize the cul- stance as part of a prescribed treatment regimen. when grown at home.” Florida, an affluent district in the capital Santiago. tivation of marijuana for private recreational or But it would maintain the country’s ban on using The bill now moves to the full Chamber of Various Latin American countries are considering medicinal use, sending it to the floor for a full marijuana in public and limit the amount a person Deputies before passing to the Senate, a legislative an overhaul of their drug laws. debate. The bill would take marijuana off the list of can possess to 10 grams. “The committee’s aim is process that could take years. Uruguay kicked off the revamp in 2013 with a hard drugs in the socially conservative country and not to allow the indiscriminate use of marijuana,” Currently, Chileans are allowed to consume mari- world-first law that fully legalized and regulated make it a soft drug like alcohol. said committee chairman Luis Castro, a member of juana in private, but it is illegal to sell or grow the marijuana, allowing users to grow the plant or buy it It would allow people over the age of 18 to grow President Michelle Bachelet’s Socialist party. drug. The bill comes as Chile prepares its first legal at pharmacies-though it has not been fully imple- up to six cannabis plants for their own use, or for “This is only about allowing (marijuana use) in cannabis harvest on Tuesday under a special permit mented yet. —AFP Corn husks a promising source of renewable fuel

MIAMI: US scientists said Monday they fuel easier to produce locally. have found a way to use discarded corn Rollin found that process of breaking husks and stalks to make cheap hydro- down corn husks and stalks into hydro- gen fuel that doesn’t pollute the environ- gen and carbon dioxide can use both ment like fossil fuels. sugars glucose and xylose at the same The advances by a team at Virginia time, not one after the other. Polytechnic Institute and State University That discovery means it is possible to save time and money while producing a speed up the rate at which hydrogen is zero-emissions fuel that could speed up released, while decreasing the area of the movement toward hydrogen-pow- the facility needed to produce it to the ered vehicles, said the report in the size of a gas station. Proceedings of the National Academy of “We believe this exciting technology Sciences, a peer-reviewed US journal. has the potential to enable the wide- “We have demonstrated the most spread use of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles important step toward a hydrogen econ- around the world and displace fossil omy-producing distributed and afford- fuels,” Rollin said. able green hydrogen from local biomass Experts said it is hard to know how resources,” said study co-author Percival much the new approach might cost. Zhang, a professor in the Department of Funding so far has been provided by the Biological Systems Engineering at Shell GameChanger initiative and the Virginia Tech. National Science Foundation. The study was led by Joe Rollin, a for- But Lonnie Ingram, director of the mer doctoral student of Zhang’s at Florida Center for Renewable Chemicals Virginia Tech. Together they co-founded and Fuels at the University of Florida, a start-up company called Cell-free who was not involved with the study, Bioinnovations. said the work “represents a revolutionary The process builds on previous approach that offers many new advan- research using xylose, “the most abun- tages. dant simple plant pentose sugar, to pro- “These researchers have certainly duce hydrogen yields that previously broadened the scope of our thinking were attainable only in theory,” said the about metabolism and how it plays into PNAS report. the future of alternative energy produc- Other hydrogen fuel production tion,” Ingram said. methods rely on highly processed sug- Researchers say they have the neces- ars, but the Virginia Tech team used corn sary cash to scale up their findings to a husks and stalks, which are known as demonstration-level, which is the next dirty biomass, to cut costs and make the step of the project. —AFP This close up of the huge Typhoon Maysak “eye” of the category 5 (hurricane status on the Saffir-Simpson Wind Scale) was cap- tured by astronauts on board the International Space Station (ISS) March 31, 2015. —AFP Health workers say Australia knew of refugee child abuse Australia criticised for its tough immigration policies

SYDNEY: A group of psychiatrists and social al assault of children, and the sexual harassment the most divisive in Australian politics over the workers formerly employed at an Australian off- and assault of vulnerable women in the centre past two decades. Polls show the policies, which shore immigration detention centre publicly for more than 17 months,” the workers said. were central to conservative Prime Minister Tony accused the government yesterday of failing to A report by the Australian Human Rights Abbott’s successful election campaign in 2013, act over systemic child sexual abuse at the con- Commission in February found nearly 300 remain popular with voters. troversial facility. instances of actual or threatened self-harm Under Abbott’s tough line on people smug- More than two dozen people who worked at among roughly 800 children held in Australia’s gling, none of the thousands of asylum seekers the camp in the Pacific island nation of Nauru offshore camps between January 2013 and held in the two countries will ever be eligible for said in an open letter published by the March 2014. Immigration Minister Peter Dutton resettlement in Australia, even if they are found Australian Broadcasting Corp. that the govern- has repeatedly dismissed concerns over child to be genuine refugees. ment knew of a string of allegations as early as safety as politically biased and argues that The former staff members detailed in the let- 2013 but did nothing. changes recommended by advocates would ter instances of abuse they said had been Australia has been criticised at home and place children at greater risk by encouraging promptly reported to the government but abroad for its tough immigration policies, people to make the dangerous boat journey. received no action. including sending asylum seekers to camps in A spokeswoman for Dutton’s office did not In one instance from November 2013, a boy impoverished Papua New Guinea and Nauru, comment specifically about the issues raised in was found to have been sexually assaulted by a where they face long periods of detention. the open letter. Australia received 16,000 asylum camp guard but the Australian government “The government of Australia and the applications last year, just less than 0.5 percent chose not to remove him from the camp despite TOKYO: In this April 2, 2015 photo, a sparrow drinks the nectar of a cherry Department of Immigration and Border of the 3.6 million lodged worldwide, UN figures concerns for his safety. The boy was assaulted blossom in full bloom at Ueno park in Tokyo. —AP Protection have tolerated the physical and sexu- show. However, the issues has remained one of again, they said. —Reuters WHAT’S ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 AUK delegates attend Harvard National Model United Nations in Boston

he Harvard National Model United Nations (HNMUN) Nourah Al-Sulaiman were part of the Social, Humanitarian That was not the first time the team participated in an Ali Kelkawi, the current transitional Student Council Vice is a student based association that is affiliated with and Cultural Committee of the General Assembly, while Ali international MUN conference. In November 2014, a team President at AUK, was part of the Economic and Social Tintergovernmental organizations such as the United Kelkawi and Mohammed Al-Saeed were members of the of 13 students travelled to Bahrain to participate in the Council representing Canada. His commission sponsored a Nations and its agencies. Each February participants from Futuristic Commission on Space Development under the Bahrain Universities MUN conference with Dana Taqi, resolution on the prevention of Juvenile Delinquency and around the world meet in Boston, Massachusetts, to take Economic and Social Council. Professor Gholamreza R. Senior Coordinator for Alumni Affairs, as advisor. The con- Agricultural Development and Food Security. Ali received part in a 3-day conference. This year, a team of six students Vatandoust of the International Relations department ference took place in the Sheraton Hotel, Manama, and an honorable mention for his performance and debating from the American University of Kuwait (AUK) travelled to served as the academic advisor for the team. was open to participants from universities within the GCC. the resolution on Juvenile Delinquency. the United States to take part in the 61st annual event, Nourah Al-Sulaiman participated in the General where they came together with the 3000+ students from Assembly representing Indonesia. She was a co-submitter 68 countries to participate, and the only team from the of a resolution that was finally approved, and won a Gulf region. Diplomacy Award for her work. Rolf H. Braathu, also repre- AUK’s MUN team is composed of Yasmine Abdulwahid, sented Indonesia, but in the International Atomic Energy Mohammed Al-Saeed, Nourah Al-Sulaiman, Rolf Braathu, Agency, focused on the peaceful use of nuclear power. He Ali Kelkawi and Paola Sedas, with Dr. Gholam R. also won a Diplomacy Award for his engagement in draft- Vatandoust, Associate Professor History, as their Faculty ing a resolution that was approved. Advisor. Attending HNMUN provided the AUK students “The major problem facing most universities is funding, with an opportunity to acquaint themselves with the rules particularly from economically pressed countries,” said Dr. of parliamentary procedures, such as making procedural Vatandoust. “Limited numbers of scholarships are avail- and substantive motions, writing and presenting resolu- able for individuals and delegates. By brining students tions and working within the norms of international diplo- together from across the world and having them engage in macy; it gave them the opportunity to measure them- the art of negotiations and diplomacy, the real goal is to selves internationally against the world’s best and the help build human capital for the future of the international brightest. community.” Yasmine is the Vice President of the AUK chapter of the Model UN is a long standing tradition for many universi- Model United Nations. She said that she felt grateful for the ties where credit hours are granted for preparation and support AUK has provided the team with in preparation for competition at the annual events. MUNAUK is registered the trip. “I’m also very proud of my delegates who came as a student club. Over the past 5 years, the club has been along and provided their time and effort to represent our funded and endorsed by the Office of Student Life and country and our university,” she added. Her teammates supported by the International Relations Department expressed similar sentiments. Paola Sedas, one of AUK’s which, according to Dr. Vatandoust, aims to support international students commented that “on the whole, it MUNAUK both financially and academically in order to pre- was an experience I do not regret, in spite of the snow pare the team for future competitions. storm, and I would encourage all young debaters to attend The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is an inde- international conferences to get a real life exposure of pendent, private, equal opportunity, and co-educational what a career in Politics or International Relations would be liberal arts institution of higher education. The educational, like.” cultural and administrative structure, methods and stan- At HNMUN, the AUK team represented Poland. Yasmine dards of AUK are based on the American model of higher Abdulwahid, Vice President of MUNAUK, and fellow stu- learning. The language of instruction is English. More infor- dent Rolf Braathu, assumed the roles of committee mem- mation on the American University of Kuwait can be found bers of the World Health Organization. Paola Sedas and AUK delegates with Dr. Gholam R. Vatandoust at www.auk.edu.kw Second edition of Gulf Lu&Lu Hypermarket organizes blood donation drive Summer University at France # 1 cinema schoolla femis fter the success of the first edition, La FEMIS, the French National Film School, will organize the Gulf ASummer University in 2015, thanks to the active sup- port oflocal sponsors (CINESCAPE in Kuwait, the Doha Film Institute in Qatar, Image Nation and Total in the UAE) and the French Embassies in the GCC region. This training programme will run for 5 weeks, consisting in intensive classes 5 days a week, during which the trainees will thoroughly explore the filmmaking craft, will discover contemporary French cinema through the study of major French directors and will direct a 5 minute film based on an existing script. All the theoretical and practical classes will be taught by professionals from the French film industry. This programme is open to very motivated young film- makers, native from the Gulf regions who wish to develop their practical and theoretical knowledge of filmmaking in Paris, the birthplace of cinema. Description of the pro- gramme and application forms are available through the French Institute in Kuwait (www.institutfrancais- koweit.com) and CINESCAPE 360∞ - Cinema Helpdesk (www.kncc.com/lafemis2015.php). Application deadline is the 26th of April, and the select- ed trainees will be announced during the Cannes Film Festival. First K-Pop Youth Festival in Kuwait he Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kuwait is organizing the first K-Pop Youth Festival in Kuwait as Tpart of the K-Pop World Festival 2015. u&Lu Hypermarket, as part of its initiative in support drive, which was solely for hypermarket’s staff, engaged Lu&Lu Hypermarket has consistently displayed its com- ‘K-Pop World Festival 2015 invites all K-pop fans around of international World Health Day, organized a blood them in the cause of helping the community and saving mitment to social causes through meaningful initiatives. the world to participate. Preliminary rounds will be held in Ldonation drive at the Central Blood Bank in Jabriya. lives. Each staff member had to undergo a preliminary The blood donation drive is part of this desire by the each region, including Kuwait to award one vocalist(s) and The initiative was strengthened by the enthusiastic partici- health screening to check for diseases and conditions that hypermarket to contribute to the overall welfare of the one performance team. Selected 2 finalists in Kuwait could pation from more than 250 staff members who donated might disqualify them. The blood donation drive was held community and reinforces its culture of ‘giving back’ to be invited to Korea in Oct for the final competition if they blood from 7 to 9 April. The three-day blood donation under the watchful supervision of nurses and doctors. society. pass additional rounds. (Only 3 Members of a team can fly to Korea if the team has backup dancers) Please refer to the Embassy’s website “Notice” http://kwt.mofa.go.kr for the detailed information and submit your applications to : [email protected] by April 25 The 1st K-POP Youth Festival will be held either in last week of May or second week of June. The venue is TBD. TIES program: What is etiquette? hat is the definition of Etiquette? How important is it? What do you know about the history of eti- Wquette? What are the types of etiquette? What is the etiquette for men and women? Join us to find out more and share your thoughts. Tuesday, April 14 @ 7pm

Jinns and Magic What are Jinns? How do they affect people’s lives? Is there anything that we can do to protect ourselves? The goal of Satan and his followers of Jinn is to mislead mankind into disbelief and sins. Join us as we explore the mysterious world of Jinns and magic. Wednesday, April 15 and 29 @ 6:30pm

What’s On - Submission Guidelines All photos submitted for What’s On Kuwait farmer donates should be minimum 200dpi. Articles must be in plain text and 10,000 Sidr trees to Roudha should include name and phone numbers. Articles and photos that n a special ceremony held with the attendance of Speaking on the occasion, Al-Azmi stressed that the aim fail to meet these requirements will Roudha Mayor, Mohammed Al-Haidar and Roudha & of his contribution was to help increase greenery every- IHawalli Coop deputy chairman of board, Ali Al-Haddad, where in Kuwait and said that he particularly chose Sidr not be published. Kuwaiti farmer Nasser Al-Azmi recently finished distribut- trees because they endure high temperatures and fit ing 10,000 Sidr tree saplings all over Kuwait by distributing Kuwait’s climate. He also noted that the saplings would Please send them to over 2,000 saplings to Roudha residents at Jamal Abdul start growing fruits within two years. On his part, Roudha [email protected] Nasser Park. The tree saplings were distributed in collabo- Mayor, Mohammed Jassim AL-Haidar expressed gratitude ration with Roudha Mayor, Mohammed Al-Haidar under for Al-Azmi’s gift and said that he distributed over 10,000 special patronage from Roudha and Hawalli Coop. saplings in less than two hours. WHAT’S ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

—Photos by Joseph Shagra Movenpick Hotel & Resort Al Bida’a Kuwait launches Seafood BBQ night

ovenpick Hotel & Resort Al Bida’a his team were present to welcome the journal- The outdoor dinner was made even more tion to a lavish salad bar and scrumptious decided to launch our Seafood BBQ Nights to Kuwait launched its poolside Seafood ists to a beautiful and relaxing evening filled lovely, thanks to the hotel’s breathtaking dessert spread. To complement the amazing allow our guests to start their weekends in the MBarbeque Nights in the presence of with a wide range of food, including mouth- beach and pool views, and the blissful spring ambience, guests were treated to live band most beautiful way,” said Maged Gubr, General senior management and a huge number of watering seafood BBQ, salads and desserts, weather. Guests enjoyed a selection of sump- performances throughout the night. Manager. Seafood BBQ Night takes place every local media representatives. The hotel’s direc- along with shisha, live band performances and tuous seafood BBQ specialities, including ham- “This is the perfect time of the year to enjoy Thursday from 7.00 pm to 11.30 pm at Beldani tor of Sales & Marketing, Bassem Al Hajj and stunning sea views of the Arabian Gulf. mours, shrimps, calamari and salmon, in addi- the outdoors in Kuwait, which is why we have Seafood & Grill Restaurant.

The Ambassador of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar Aye Khaing hosted a dinner for the outgoing Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia Long Kem recently at his residence. Diplomats and media per- sonals attended the event. —Photos by Joseph Shagra

Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa partners with Porsche Centre to offer environment friendly transport

umeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & line-up includes the Panamera S E- the harmful emissions of conventional has continued to build on its unrivalled Spa, Kuwait’s idyllic resort, has part- Hybrid, 918 Spyder and the recently fuel-powered, combustion engine cars. legacy of breaking new automotive Jnered with Porsche Centre Kuwait, launched Cayenne S E-Hybrid - the Our guests will not only enjoy the com- ground in the field of sustainability. Behbehani Motors Company to help world’s first plug-in hybrid in the premi- fort of Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani raise awareness of environmentally um SUV segment. and Spa but can now take advantage on Motors Company has always been dedi- friendly transport options. “This collaboration showcases our environment-friendly luxury transport,” cated to environmental protection and The hotel is hosting the Porsche finding innovative solutions to reducing Panamera S E-Hybrid car at its main fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. entrance to provide an alternative luxury The Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid pro- mode of transport for the hotel’s VIP vides advancements in both efficiency guests and celebrities, while at the same and sportiness and is a pioneering vehi- time raising awareness of hybrid cars and cle because it delivers the dynamic per- educating motorists about reducing fuel formance and power expected from consumption and CO2 emissions. Porsche, while also helping individual The Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid is owners to reduce their carbon footprint. the world’s first plug-in hybrid model on We are proud of our partnership with the luxury class market. The 416 hp Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa model has an electric driving range of and the important work we will be up to 36 kilometers after which the vehi- doing together to raise environmental cle will switch to normal fuel or the driv- awareness.” r. Waseem Siddiqi - a renowned short-story writer in Urdu and Dr Navniit Gandhi - er can recharge it. The car has an NEDC In its commitment to create a posi- an author and a freelance journalist launched their book: ‘The Liar, and other fuel consumption of just 3.1 liters per tive impact in Kuwait and engage its DStories’, a collection of 17 short stories originally written in Urdu by Dr Waseem 100 km which equates to CO2 emissions guests and colleagues, the Jumeirah Siddiqi and now, translated in English by Dr Navniit Gandhi. The book has been published of just 71 g/km - the same level as a commitment to sustainability. We are said Hakan Petek, General Manager, Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa is actively by Diamond Pocket Books, New Delhi. While the book is already out in India, it was formal- compact car. In addition to the Porsche proud to support an environmentally Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa. involved in social responsibility initiatives ly launched in Kuwait on March 27, 2015 at the platform to which both the writers belong Panamera S E-Hybrid, Porsche is a mar- friendly initiative and to have partnered Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani and activities such as the Earth Hour, - The Writers’ Forum, Kuwait. Noted Urdu short-story writer and the President of the ket-leader in the production of plug-in with Porsche - a globally recognised and Motors Company- Deputy Group Breast Cancer Awareness, World Autism Writers’ Forum, Kuwait- Dr Mirza Umair Beg and well-known Hindustani poet- Umesh hybrid cars and is the only manufacturer respected automobile brand. It’s impor- General Manager Roger Kyriacou said: Day, student school projects, art compe- Sharma who is also the Vice-President and one of the Founders of Writers’ Forum, jointly to offer three hybrid models. Its E-Hybrid tant to protect the environment against “For more than eight decades Porsche titions and beach clean-up drives. released the book. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015 TV PROGRAMS

05:30 How It’s Made True 06:00 Alaska: The Last Frontier 11:50 Sofia The First 06:50 Wheeler Dealers 12:15 Sofia The First 07:40 Fast N’ Loud 12:40 The Adventures Of Disney 08:30 Storage Hunters Fairies 00:20 Jam And Jerusalem 08:55 Dukes Of Haggle 13:05 Good Luck Charlie 00:35 Midsomer Murders 00:50 Eastenders 09:20 Storage Wars Canada 13:30 Dog With A Blog 02:00 Emmerdale 01:20 Doctors 09:45 How It’s Made 13:55 Gravity Falls 02:25 Emmerdale 01:50 The Night Watch 10:10 How It’s Made 14:20 H2O: Just Add Water 02:55 Coronation Street 03:20 Pride And Prejudice 10:35 Bear Grylls: Escape From 14:55 Liv And Maddie 03:25 Vera 04:15 The Weakest Link Hell 15:20 Binny And The Ghost 05:15 The Chase 05:00 Teletubbies 11:25 Survive That! 15:45 Girl Meets World 06:00 Midsomer Murders 05:25 Show Me Show Me 12:15 Tethered 16:10 Violetta 07:30 Vera 05:45 Boogie Beebies 13:05 Storage Hunters 17:00 Radio Rebel 09:20 Coach Trip 06:00 Gigglebiz 13:30 Dukes Of Haggle 18:40 Liv And Maddie 09:45 Coach Trip 06:15 Teletubbies 13:55 Storage Wars Canada 19:05 H2O: Just Add Water 10:15 May The Best House Win 06:40 Show Me Show Me 14:20 Alaska: The Last Frontier 19:30 Violetta 11:10 Emmerdale 07:00 Boogie Beebies 15:10 Wheeler Dealers 20:20 Binny And The Ghost 11:35 Emmerdale 07:15 Cbeebies Stories 16:00 Fast N’ Loud 20:45 H2O: Just Add Water 12:00 Coronation Street 07:20 The Weakest Link 16:50 How It’s Made 21:10 Good Luck Charlie 12:30 The Chase 08:05 Pride And Prejudice 17:15 How It’s Made 21:35 Wizards Of Waverly Place 13:15 May The Best House Win 09:00 Eastenders 17:40 Dynamo: Magician 22:00 Wizards Of Waverly Place 14:05 Midsomer Murders 09:30 Doctors Impossible 22:25 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 15:35 Coach Trip 10:00 Drop Zone Teenage Witch 16:00 Coach Trip 10:50 Hebburn 22:50 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 16:30 Love And Marriage: A 20th 11:20 The Weakest Link Teenage Witch Century Romance 12:05 Pride And Prejudice 23:10 Wolfblood 17:25 Mr Selfridge 13:00 Eastenders 23:35 Wolfblood 18:20 The Chase 13:30 Doctors 19:10 Coronation Street 14:00 Drop Zone 00:05 How It’s Made 19:35 Coach Trip 14:50 Hebburn 00:30 The World’s Strangest UFO 20:00 Coach Trip 15:20 The Vicar Of Dibley Stories 20:30 Love And Marriage: A 20th 16:00 The Cafe 01:20 How Do They Do It? Century Romance 16:25 The Weakest Link 01:45 How Do They Do It? 21:25 Mr Selfridge 17:10 Eastenders 00:00 Escape Club 22:20 Coronation Street 02:10 Through The Wormhole With 00:55 Extreme Close-Up 17:40 Doctors Morgan Freeman 22:50 Emmerdale 18:10 Drop Zone 01:25 Kourtney And Khloe Take 23:15 Emmerdale 03:00 Food Factory The Hamptons 19:00 Hebburn 03:24 Food Factory 23:45 May The Best House Win 19:30 My Hero 02:20 Giuliana & Bill 03:48 Superhuman Science 03:15 Christina Milian Turned Up 20:00 The Turn Of The Screw 04:12 Superhuman Science 21:30 Spooks 03:40 Christina Milian Turned Up 04:36 Sport Science 04:10 Beyond Candid With 22:20 Stella 05:24 The World’s Strangest UFO 23:05 The Weakest Link Giuliana Stories 05:05 Beyond Candid With 23:50 Waking The Dead 06:12 How It’s Made Giuliana 00:00 Beyond Magic with DMC 06:36 How It’s Made 06:00 Keeping Up With The 01:00 China’s Great Wall 07:00 Prank Science Kardashians 02:00 America The Wild 07:25 Gadget Show - World Tour 06:55 Keeping Up With The 03:00 Apocalypse: The Second 07:50 Superships Kardashians World War 08:40 Food Factory 07:50 Style Star 04:00 Crash Science 09:05 Food Factory 08:20 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills 05:00 Air Crash Investigation 00:15 Bill’s Kitchen: Notting Hill 09:30 Superhuman Science 08:45 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills 06:00 Secrets Of The Tang 00:40 Masterchef: The 09:55 Superhuman Science 09:15 Giuliana & Bill Treasure Ship Professionals 10:20 The World’s Strangest UFO 10:15 Giuliana & Bill 07:00 Clash Of The Continents 01:35 Antiques Roadshow Stories 11:10 Fashion Bloggers 08:00 Beyond Magic with DMC 02:30 The Restaurant Inspector 11:10 How Do They Do It? 11:35 Fashion Bloggers 09:00 China’s Great Wall 03:15 Come Dine With Me 11:35 How Do They Do It? 12:05 House Of DVF 10:00 America The Wild 03:40 Baking Mad With Eric 12:00 Prank Science 13:05 Extreme Close-Up 11:00 Animal Mega Moves Lanlard 12:25 Gadget Show - World Tour 13:35 E!ES 12:00 Brave New World 04:05 Beat My Build 12:50 Superships 14:30 Style Star 13:00 Convoy: War For The Atlantic 04:50 Rachel Khoo’s Kitchen 13:40 How It’s Made 15:00 Keeping Up With The 14:00 Britain’s Greatest Machines Notebook: Cosmo Cook 14:05 How It’s Made Kardashians 15:00 Bob Ballard Specials 05:15 Bill’s Kitchen: Notting Hill 14:30 Superhuman Science 16:00 Keeping Up With The 16:00 Jurassic C.S.I. 05:40 Masterchef: The 14:55 Superhuman Science Kardashians 17:00 Science of Stupid Professionals 15:20 Through The Wormhole With 17:00 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills 17:30 Science of Stupid 06:35 Baking Mad With Eric Morgan Freeman 17:30 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills 18:00 Clash Of The Continents Lanlard 16:10 How Do They Do It? 18:00 E! News 19:00 Bob Ballard Specials 07:00 Antiques Roadshow 16:35 How Do They Do It? 19:00 E!ES 20:00 Jurassic C.S.I. 07:50 Come Dine With Me 17:00 The World’s Strangest UFO 20:00 Who Wore It Better? 21:00 Science of Stupid 08:15 Beat My Build Stories 20:30 Who Wore It Better? 21:30 Science of Stupid 09:05 Rachel Khoo’s Kitchen 17:50 Sport Science 21:00 Keeping Up With The 22:00 Clash Of The Continents Notebook: Cosmo Cook 18:40 Food Factory Kardashians 23:00 Animal Mega Moves 09:30 Bill’s Kitchen: Notting Hill 19:05 Food Factory 22:00 E! News 09:55 Rick Stein’s Spain 19:30 Strangest Weather On Earth 23:00 Giuliana & Bill 10:45 Masterchef: The 19:55 Strangest Weather On Earth Professionals 20:20 Space Pioneer 11:40 Antiques Roadshow 21:10 How Do They Do It? 12:30 Come Dine With Me 21:35 How Do They Do It? 00:30 The Daily Show With Jon 12:55 Beat My Build 22:00 Strangest Weather On Earth 13:45 Rachel Khoo’s Kitchen Stewart 22:25 Strangest Weather On Earth 01:00 Hot In Cleveland Notebook: Cosmo Cook 22:50 Through The Wormhole With 00:30 Guy’s Big Bite 14:10 Bill’s Kitchen: Notting Hill 01:30 The League Morgan Freeman 01:00 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 02:00 Veep 14:35 Bargain Hunt 23:40 How It’s Made 01:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 15:25 Masterchef: The 02:30 South Park 02:00 Man Fire Food 2 GUNS ON OSN MOVIES HD ACTION Professionals 03:00 Community 02:30 Man Fire Food 03:30 Melissa & Joey 16:20 Extreme Makeover: Home 11:30 Barbie And The Magic Of 09:45 Cake Boss 07:30 Calimero Edition 03:00 Guy’s Big Bite 04:00 Two And A Half Men 03:30 Guy’s Grocery Games 04:30 The Tonight Show Starring Pegasus 10:10 Little People, Big World 07:45 Loopdidoo 17:00 Come Dine With Me 13:00 Garfield’s Pet Force 10:35 Extreme Couponing 08:00 Limon And Oli 04:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives Jimmy Fallon 17:25 Beat My Build 14:30 Princess And The Pea 11:00 Toddlers & Tiaras 08:10 Jake And The Never Land 00:00 Violetta 06:30 My Boys 18:15 Kirstie Allsopp’s Home Style 05:00 Chopped 16:00 Krazzy Planet 11:50 Kate Plus 8 Pirates 00:45 The Hive 07:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 00:15 Shooter-PG15 19:05 Tareq Taylor’s Nordic 06:00 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 18:00 Barbie Fairytopia Mermaidia 12:40 Randy To The Rescue 08:35 Doc McStuffins 00:50 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 08:00 Two And A Half Men 02:30 Knockout-PG15 Cookery 06:30 Siba’s Table 20:00 Return To Nim’s Island 13:30 Kate Plus 8 09:05 Art Attack Teenage Witch 09:00 Community 04:15 Ninja: Shadow Of A Tear- 19:30 Bill’s Kitchen: Notting Hill 07:00 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 22:00 Princess And The Pea 14:20 Say Yes To The Dress: The 09:30 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 01:15 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 09:30 The Simpsons PG15 19:55 Extreme Makeover: Home 07:30 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 23:30 Krazzy Planet Big Day 10:00 Sofia The First Teenage Witch 10:00 Marry Me 06:00 Red Sky-PG15 Edition 08:00 Chopped 15:10 Cake Boss 10:25 Sheriff Callie’s Wild West 01:40 Wolfblood 10:30 My Boys 08:00 The Call-PG15 20:35 Masterchef: The 09:00 Barefoot Contessa - Back To 15:35 Little People, Big World 10:55 Calimero 02:05 Wolfblood 11:00 The Tonight Show Starring 10:00 Knockout-PG15 Professionals Basics 16:00 Toddlers & Tiaras 11:10 Jake And The Never Land 02:30 Violetta Jimmy Fallon 12:00 500 mph Storm-PG15 21:00 Masterchef: The 16:50 Say Yes To The Dress Pirates 03:15 The Hive 09:30 Farm Kings 12:30 Two And A Half Men 14:00 Red Sky-PG15 Professionals 17:15 Something Borrowed, 11:35 Limon And Oli 03:20 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 10:30 The Big Eat... 13:00 My Boys 16:00 The Cold Light Of Day-PG15 21:25 Bargain Hunt 00:00 Deep Sea 3D-PG Something New 11:45 Loopdidoo Teenage Witch 11:00 Mexican Made Easy 13:30 My Boys 18:00 The Call-PG15 22:10 Come Dine With Me 01:00 Ong Bak 3-PG15 17:40 18 Kids And Counting 12:00 Justin Time 03:45 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 11:30 Chopped 14:00 Melissa & Joey 20:00 Shanghai Noon-PG15 22:35 The Hairy Bikers USA 03:00 Ender’s Game-PG15 18:05 Extreme Couponing 12:15 Sofia The First Teenage Witch 12:30 Siba’s Table 14:30 The Simpsons 22:00 2 Guns-18 23:00 Kirstie Allsopp’s Home Style 05:00 Turbo-PG 18:30 Driving Me Crazy 12:45 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 04:10 Wolfblood 13:00 Guy’s Big Bite 15:00 Marry Me 23:50 Tareq Taylor’s Nordic 07:00 The Amazing Spider-Man 2- 19:20 Oprah’s Lifeclass 13:10 Sheriff Callie’s Wild West 04:35 Wolfblood 13:30 Guy’s Big Bite 15:30 The Daily Show With Jon Cookery PG15 20:10 Randy To The Rescue 13:35 Zou 05:00 Violetta 14:00 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives Stewart 09:30 Grace Unplugged-PG 21:00 Medical Anomalies 13:50 Jake And The Never Land 05:45 The Hive 16:00 Hot In Cleveland 14:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 11:15 Ender’s Game-PG15 21:50 Extraordinary Pregnancies Pirates 05:50 Mouk 17:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 15:00 Guy’s Grocery Games 00:30 Se Puder... Dirija! 13:15 The Book Thief-PG15 22:40 America’s Worst Tattoos 14:15 Doc McStuffins 06:00 Dog With A Blog 18:00 Community 16:00 Chopped 02:15 Run For Your Wife 15:30 The Amazing Spider-Man 2- 23:05 90 Days To Wed 14:45 Limon And Oli 06:25 Binny And The Ghost 18:30 Baby Daddy 17:00 Guy’s Big Bite 04:00 Every Day PG15 23:55 Medical Anomalies 14:55 Loopdidoo 06:50 Girl Meets World 19:00 Modern Family 17:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 06:00 It’s A Disaster 18:00 Good Deeds-PG15 15:10 Sofia The First 00:20 Fast N’ Loud 07:15 H2O: Just Add Water 19:30 Modern Family 18:00 Siba’s Table 08:00 So Undercover 20:00 Anchorman 2: The Legend 15:35 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 01:10 Bear Grylls: Escape From 07:40 Jessie 20:00 The Tonight Show Starring 18:30 The Big Eat... 10:00 Fred 2: Night Of The Living Continues-PG15 16:00 Cars Toons Hell 08:05 Wizards Of Waverly Place Jimmy Fallon 19:00 Chopped Fred 22:00 CBGB-18 16:05 Lilo & Stitch 02:00 Survive That! 08:30 Austin & Ally 21:00 The Daily Show With Jon 20:00 Guy’s Grocery Games 12:00 Ghost Dad 23:45 Grace Unplugged-PG 16:30 Adventures Of The Gummi 02:50 Tethered 08:55 Dog With A Blog Stewart 14:00 It’s A Disaster 03:00 Deadly Sins Bears 03:40 Storage Hunters 09:20 Binny And The Ghost 21:00 Chopped 21:30 Hot In Cleveland 16:00 So Undercover 03:45 Dates From Hell 17:00 Chip n Dale Rescue Rangers 04:05 Dukes Of Haggle 09:45 Girl Meets World 22:00 Food Network Challenge 22:00 Mixology 18:00 HairBrained 04:07 Dates From Hell 17:25 Ducktales 04:30 Storage Wars Canada 10:10 Liv And Maddie 23:00 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 22:30 Mixology 20:00 Save The Date 00:00 NRL Full Time 04:30 Fatal Encounters 18:00 Art Attack 05:00 How It’s Made 10:35 Cinderella 2 Dreams Come 23:30 Chopped 23:00 South Park 22:00 The Love Guru 23:30 Late Night With Seth Meyers 00:30 AFL Premiership Highlights 05:20 True Crime With Aphrodite 18:30 Sofia The First 02:00 LPGA Tour Jones 18:55 Calimero 06:30 NRL Full Time 06:10 On The Case With Paula 19:05 Cars Toons 07:00 Golfing World Zahn 19:10 Limon And Oli 07:30 Gillette World Sport 07:00 Deadly Affairs 19:25 Jake And The Never Land Pirates 08:00 C.S.I. 01:00 Safe Haven-PG15 08:00 IRB Sevens World Series 07:50 Fatal Encounters 19:50 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 12:00 Emmerdale 03:00 Collaborator-PG15 13:00 NRL Full Time 08:40 Murder Shift 20:20 Sofia The First 12:30 Coronation Street 05:00 Stolen Child-PG15 14:00 NRL Premiership 09:30 I Was Murdered 20:50 Adventures Of The Gummi 14:00 C.S.I. 07:00 Christmas Magic-PG15 16:00 Super Rugby Highlights 09:55 Stalked: Someone’s Bears 16:00 Emmerdale 09:00 Nebraska-PG15 18:00 Golfing World Watching 21:15 Chip n Dale Rescue Rangers 16:30 Coronation Street 11:00 Stolen Child-PG15 19:00 Inside The PGA Tour 10:20 Forensic Detectives 21:45 Ducktales 18:00 C.S.I. 13:00 There Be Dragons-PG15 19:30 European Tour Weekly 11:10 True Crime With Aphrodite 22:15 Art Attack 19:00 Glee 15:00 Diana-PG15 20:00 Trans World Sport Jones 22:40 Limon And Oli 20:00 Marvel’s Agents Of 17:00 Nebraska-PG15 21:00 This Is The President Cup 12:00 Blood Relatives 22:50 Henry Hugglemonster S.H.I.E.L.D. 19:00 Suspension Of Disbelief- 21:30 IRB Sevens World Series 12:50 On The Case With Paula 23:05 Zou 21:00 The Voice PG15 Zahn 23:20 Mouk 22:00 Outlander 21:00 Devil’s Knot-PG15 13:40 Who On Earth... 23:00 American Hustle-18 14:05 Who On Earth... 23:35 Jungle Junction 14:30 True Crime With Aphrodite 23:50 Art Attack 03:00 AFL Premiership Highlights Jones 00:15 Julius Jr. 04:00 Super Rugby Highlights 15:20 I Was Murdered 00:30 Calimero 07:00 NRL Premiership 15:45 Stalked: Someone’s 00:45 Henry Hugglemonster 09:00 PGA Tour Highlights Watching 01:00 Zou 11:00 Super Rugby Highlights 16:10 Murder Shift 01:15 Jungle Junction 01:30 Close Encounters Of The 01:00 Good Morning America 14:00 AFL Premiership Highlights 17:00 Blood Relatives 01:25 Art Attack Third Kind: Directors Cut 03:00 Grimm 16:00 IRB Sevens World Series 17:50 Fatal Encounters 01:50 Julius Jr. 04:00 As Good As It Gets 04:00 The Strain 19:00 WWE Vintage 18:40 Forensic Detectives 02:00 Calimero 06:30 The Invisible Woman 05:00 Good Morning America 20:00 Golfing World 19:30 On The Case With Paula 02:15 Henry Hugglemonster 08:30 Heart Of The Country 07:00 Emmerdale 21:00 Super Rugby Highlights Zahn 02:25 Zou 10:00 Hope And Glory 07:30 Coronation Street 20:20 The Will 02:40 Mouk 12:00 The Last Harbor 21:10 Who On Earth... 02:50 Jungle Junction 09:00 Parenthood 13:45 As Good As It Gets 21:35 Who On Earth... 10:00 Emmerdale 16:30 Hope And Glory 22:00 True CSI 10:30 Coronation Street 18:30 Not Fade Away 22:50 Solved 12:00 Covert Affairs 20:30 Prisoners 17:00 ICC Cricket 360 23:40 Dates From Hell 13:00 The Fosters 23:00 Network 17:30 Live Indian Premier League : 00:05 Dates From Hell 14:00 Live Good Morning America KKR v MI 21:00 ICC World Cup H/L: Final 00:30 Deadly Devotion 16:00 Parenthood 01:20 Reel Crime/Real Story 06:00 Kid vs Kat 17:00 Covert Affairs 22:00 Indian Premier League RPT : KKR v MI 02:10 True CSI 06:10 Zeke & Luther 18:00 The Fosters 01:00 Reasonable Doubt-PG15 06:35 Kickin’ It 19:00 Parenthood 03:00 Inescapable-PG15 07:00 Phineas And Ferb 20:00 Covert Affairs 05:00 All Is Lost-PG15 07:25 Phineas And Ferb 21:00 The Fosters 07:00 Quartet-PG15 07:50 Ultimate Spider-Man 22:00 Grimm 09:00 The Way Way Back-PG15 08:15 The 7D 23:00 The Strain 11:00 Christmas In Conway-PG15 03:00 Art Attack 08:40 Supa Strikas 13:00 The Internship-PG15 03:25 Julius Jr. 09:05 Lab Rats 00:45 Tina Malone: Pregnant At 50 15:00 No Clue-PG15 03:35 Calimero 09:30 Kickin’ It 01:35 America’s Worst Tattoos 17:00 The Way Way Back-PG15 03:50 Henry Hugglemonster 09:55 Kickin’ It 02:00 90 Days To Wed 19:00 Endless Love-PG15 04:00 Zou 10:20 Kickin’ It 02:50 Say Yes To The Dress 21:00 Before Midnight-PG15 04:15 Mouk 10:45 Kickin’ It 03:15 Something Borrowed, 00:00 The Terminator 23:00 Trance-R 04:25 Jungle Junction 11:10 Lab Rats 02:00 The Collection Something New 04:35 Art Attack 11:35 Phineas And Ferb 04:00 Crimson Tide 03:40 Driving Me Crazy 05:00 Julius Jr. 12:00 Pair Of Kings 04:30 Cake Boss 06:00 Kill Em All 05:10 Calimero 12:25 Supa Strikas 05:00 Little People, Big World 12:50 Kickin’ It 08:00 Shadow Conspiracy 05:25 Henry Hugglemonster 05:30 Extreme Couponing 13:15 Wendy Wu: Homecoming 10:00 Appleseed: Alpha 05:35 Zou 06:00 18 Kids And Counting 05:50 Mouk Warrior 12:00 Ninja: Shadow Of A Tear 01:00 Hammer Boy 06:25 Randy To The Rescue 14:40 Phineas And Ferb 02:45 Garfield’s Pet Force 06:00 Jungle Junction 14:00 Kill Em All 07:15 Say Yes To The Dress 06:10 Art Attack 14:55 Star Wars Rebels 16:00 Shadow Conspiracy 04:30 Quest For A Heart 07:40 Something Borrowed, 15:20 Ultimate Spider-Man 06:00 Oggy & The Cockroaches: 06:35 Julius Jr. 18:00 Knockout Something New 15:45 Phineas And Ferb The Movie 06:45 Calimero 20:00 Ninja: Shadow Of A Tear 08:05 Oprah’s Lifeclass 07:00 Jungle Junction 16:10 Supa Strikas 08:00 The Nameless Warrior 08:55 Oprah’s Master Class 16:35 Pair Of Kings RED SKY ON OSN MOVIES ACTION 22:00 Red Sky 10:00 Barbie Fairytopia Mermaidia 07:15 Zou Classifieds

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

Kuwait KNCC PROGRAMME FROM THURSDAY TO WEDNESDAY (02/04/2015 TO 08/04/2015)

SHARQIA-1 HOME 4:45 PM CINDERELLA 12:05 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 6:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:15 PM QOT WA FAR (Arabic) 6:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:30 PM CINDERELLA 3:00 PM QOT WA FAR (Arabic) 8:45 PM AVENUES-4 FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:30 AM CINDERELLA 5:15 PM THE CANAL 10:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:15 PM CINDERELLA 7:30 PM THE CANAL 12:45 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 4:15 PM 360º- 1 CINDERELLA 9:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 7:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:05 AM FANAR-4 FAST & FURIOUS 7 10:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 3:00 PM HOME -3D 11:30 AM Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7” 10:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 6:00 PM SHARQIA-2 FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:30 PM THE GUNMAN 1:00 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:00 PM HOME -3D 11:45 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 4:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:05 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 7:00 PM AVENUES-5 FAST & FURIOUS 7 4:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:45 PM CINDERELLA 12:30 PM 360º- 2 CHANGE OF NAME MATRIMONIAL FAST & FURIOUS 7 7:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:30 AM CINDERELLA 3:00 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 11:45 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 10:00 PM Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7” 2:45 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 2:15 PM I, Mrs. Shaik Nazneen W/o Nair boy M.Sc (N) 30y/184 FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:45 AM FANAR-5 CINDERELLA 5:30 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 4:45 PM Madanapalle Humayun, cms Avittam FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:30 PM CINDERELLA 8:00 PM THE GUNMAN 7:15 PM holder of Indian Passport Sudhajathakam working in SHARQIA-3 FAST & FURIOUS 7 3:15 PM NO FRI+WED Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7 “ 7:15 PM No. K4164142, hereby Kuwait MOH preferring girls THE CANAL 12:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 6:00 PM Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7” 7:45 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 9:45 PM change my name to working in Kuwait contact: HOME 2:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 8:45 PM Special Show “HOME” 7:45 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 12:15 AM Madanapalle Nazneen. [email protected] PAPER PLANES 4:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 11:30 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 10:30 PM (C 4960) (C 4961) HOME 6:30 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 1:00 AM 360º- 3 5-4-2015 5-4-2015 PAPER PLANES 8:30 PM MARINA-1 THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 12:00 PM THE CANAL 10:30 PM CINDERELLA 11:30 AM AVENUES-6 THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 2:30 PM I, NJOKU CHINWEOKE FOR SALE THE CANAL 12:30 AM CINDERELLA 1:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 11:30 AM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 5:00 PM IHEYINWA from Imo State CINDERELLA 4:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 2:30 PM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 7:30 PM Nigeria with Passport MUHALAB-1 CINDERELLA 6:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 5:30 PM Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7” 7:30 PM Mitsubishi Lancer Fortis - Number A02398494 do 2013, silver color, excellent FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:00 PM CINDERELLA 8:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 8:30 PM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 10:00 PM hereby change my name to CINDERELLA 2:30 PM THE CANAL 11:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 11:30 PM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 12:30 AM condition, km 11000, KD ONONAJI CHINWEOKE 1900. Mob: 97868418. CINDERELLA 4:45 PM THE CANAL 1:00 AM IHEYINWA. CINDERELLA 7:00 PM AVENUES-7 AL-KOUT.1 (C 4962) 1-4-2015 CINDERELLA 9:15 PM MARINA-2 FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:45 PM HOME -3D 11:30 AM 5-4-2015 FAST & FURIOUS 7 11:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:00 PM THEEB (Arabic) 3:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 3:45 PM THEEB (Arabic) 5:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 4:15 PM MUHALAB-2 FAST & FURIOUS 7 6:30 PM THEEB (Arabic) 8:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 7:00 PM THE PUBLIC AUTHORITY HOME 11:30 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:15 PM Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7” 8:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:45 PM THE CANAL 1:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:05 AM THEEB (Arabic) 10:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:30 AM FOR CIVIL INFORMATION HOME 3:30 PM THEEB (Arabic) 10:30 PM Automated enquiry about HOME 5:30 PM MARINA-3 THEEB (Arabic) 12:30 AM AL-KOUT.2 RUN ALL NIGHT 7:30 PM THE CANAL 11:30 AM PAPER PLANES 11:30 AM the Civil ID card is THE CANAL 10:00 PM THE CANAL 1:30 PM AVENUES-8 THE CANAL 1:30 PM THE CANAL 12:05 AM HOME -3D 3:30 PM PAPER PLANES 1:00 PM PAPER PLANES 3:30 PM HOME 5:30 PM PAPER PLANES 3:15 PM PAPER PLANES 5:45 PM 1889988 MUHALAB-3 FAST & FURIOUS 7 7:30 PM PAPER PLANES 5:30 PM THEEB (Arabic) 8:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:15 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 10:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 8:00 PM QOT WA FAR (Arabic) 10:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 4:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:45 AM Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7” 8:00 PM THE CANAL 12:05 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 6:45 PM PAPER PLANES 11:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:30 PM AVENUES-1 EX MACHINA 1:00 AM AL-KOUT.3 FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:15 AM PAPER PLANES 11:30 AM THE CANAL 11:30 AM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 1:30 PM AVENUES-9 CINDERELLA 1:30 PM FANAR-1 RUN ALL NIGHT 4:00 PM HOME 11:30 AM CINDERELLA 3:45 PM BONTA 11:45 AM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 6:30 PM HOME -3D 1:30 PM CINDERELLA 6:00 PM PAPER PLANES 1:45 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 9:00 PM HOME 3:45 PM CINDERELLA 8:15 PM BONTA 3:45 PM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 11:30 PM HOME -3D 6:00 PM THEEB (Arabic) 10:30 PM PAPER PLANES 5:45 PM HOME 8:15 PM THE CANAL 12:45 AM PAPER PLANES 7:45 PM AVENUES-2 THE GUNMAN 10:30 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 9:45 PM THE CANAL 11:45 AM THE GUNMAN 12:45 AM AL-KOUT.4 RUN ALL NIGHT 12:30 AM THE CANAL 1:45 PM HOME 12:15 PM THE CANAL 4:00 PM AVENUES-10 HOME 2:45 PM FANAR-2 THE CANAL 6:15 PM BONTA 12:00 PM HOME 4:45 PM CINDERELLA 12:15 PM THE CANAL 8:30 PM BONTA 2:00 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 6:45 PM CINDERELLA 2:30 PM THE CANAL 10:45 PM BONTA 4:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:15 PM CINDERELLA 5:00 PM THE CANAL 1:00 AM QOT WA FAR (Arabic) 6:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 11:45 PM CINDERELLA 7:15 PM QOT WA FAR (Arabic) 8:30 PM Prayer timings CINDERELLA 9:30 PM AVENUES-3 QOT WA FAR (Arabic) 10:45 PM BAIRAQ-1 CINDERELLA 12:05 AM CINDERELLA 11:30 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:45 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:00 PM Fajr: 04:09 Asr: 15:23 CINDERELLA 2:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 3:45 PM FANAR-3 CINDERELLA 4:30 PM AVENUES-11 FAST & FURIOUS 7 6:30 PM Shorook 05:30 Maghrib: 18:10 THE CANAL 12:45 PM CINDERELLA 7:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:15 PM HOME 2:45 PM CINDERELLA 9:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 3:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:05 AM Duhr: 11:50 Isha: 19:28

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

Arrival Flights on Wednesday 8/4/2015 SVA 500 Jeddah 14:30 Departure Flights on Wednesday 8/4/2015 UAE 872 Dubai 14:15 Airlines Flt Route Time KAC 540 Sharm el-Sheikh 14:50 Airlines Flt Route Time CLX 792 Hanoi 14:45 QTR 1084 Doha 00:05 KAC 742 Dammam 14:50 AIC 982 Ahmedabad/Hyderabad/Chennai 00:05 KAC 1782 Jeddah 14:55 THY 772 Istanbul 00:15 KNE 472 Jeddah 14:55 BBC 044 Dhaka 00:10 KAC 545 Alexandria 15:00 JZR 239 Amman 00:20 KAC 788 Jeddah 15:00 UAL 981 IAD 00:25 QTR 1079 Doha 15:05 JZR 267 Beirut 00:30 RJD 135 Abu Dhabi 15:00 JAI 573 Mumbai 00:25 GFA 222 Bahrain 15:05 DLH 637 Dammam 00:35 OMA 645 Muscat 15:05 FDB 072 Dubai 00:30 FDB 058 Dubai 15:05 FDB 068 Dubai 00:55 KNE 462 Madinah 15:05 DLH 637 Frankfurt 01:35 KNE 481 Taif 15:10 JZR 555 Alexandria 01:15 ABY 127 Sharjah 15:35 THY 773 Istanbul 02:05 KAC 617 Doha 15:15 JZR 539 Cairo 01:30 UAE 857 Dubai 15:45 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 02:50 KAC 673 Dubai 15:20 JAI 574 Mumbai 01:30 RJA 640 Amman 15:55 JAI 525 Abu Dhabi/Chennai 02:55 SVA 503 Jeddah 15:45 PGT 858 Istanbul 01:40 JZR 535 Cairo 16:05 PGT 859 Istanbul 02:55 KAC 773 Riyadh 15:55 RJA 642 Amman 01:45 KAC 512 Mashhad 16:10 MSC 404 Sohag 03:30 KNE 473 Jeddah 16:00 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 01:50 FDB 051 Dubai 16:10 OMA 644 Muscat 03:35 KNE 463 Madinah 16:00 KKK 6507 Istanbul 02:15 QTR 1072 Doha 16:20 UAE 854 Dubai 03:45 KAC 791 Madinah 16:00 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:15 IRC 526 Mashhad 16:30 FDB 068 Dubai 04:00 OMA 646 Muscat 16:05 UAE 853 Dubai 02:25 JZR 787 Riyadh 16:45 QTR 1077 Doha 04:05 RJD 136 Abu Dhabi 16:10 MSC 403 Sohag 02:30 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 16:50 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:05 ABY 128 Sharjah 16:15 OMA 643 Muscat 02:35 KAC 562 Amman 17:00 MSR 613 Cairo 04:15 RJA 641 Amman 16:55 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 03:05 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:15 SYR 342 Damascus 04:25 JZR 266 Beirut 17:05 QTR 1076 Doha 03:05 IRM 1180 Mashhad 17:25 CEB 7695 Manila 04:40 FDB 052 Dubai 17:10 CEB 7694 Manila 03:10 JZR 357 Mashhad 17:30 MSC 406 Sohag 05:00 QTR 1073 Doha 17:25 FDB 067 Dubai 03:15 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 JZR 560 Sohag 05:00 IRC 527 Mashhad 17:30 MSR 612 Cairo 03:15 JZR 177 Dubai 17:45 THY 765 Istanbul 05:05 UAE 858 Dubai 17:40 SYR 341 Latakia/KAC 03:25 JZR 777 Jeddah 17:50 QTR 1085 Doha 05:20 ETD 304 Abu Dhabi 17:40 KAC 1544 Cairo 03:55 SYR 343 Damascus 17:55 RJA 643 Amman 06:35 SVA 511 Riyadh 18:15 MSC 401 Alexandria 04:00 GFA 944 LCA 18:00 GFA 212 Bahrain 06:50 GFA 216 Bahrain 18:20 THY 771 Istanbul 06:50 THY 770 Istanbul 04:40 FDB 065 Dubai 18:05 JZR 184 Dubai 18:20 DHX 170 Bahrain 05:10 JZR 483 Istanbul 18:20 ETH 3713 Addis Ababa 07:00 FDB 070 Dubai 07:05 KAC 563 Amman 18:30 KAC 412 Manila/Bangkok 06:15 KAC 786 Jeddah 18:35 IRM 1187 Tehran 18:35 BAW 157 London 06:35 KAC 502 Beirut 18:35 JZR 164 Dubai 07:15 FDB 054 Dubai 08:30 JZR 538 Cairo 18:40 KAC 382 Delhi 07:40 KAC 542 Cairo 18:55 GFA 944 Bahrain 18:45 KAC 206 Islamabad 07:45 KAC 618 Doha 18:55 BAW 156 London 08:35 KAC 539 Sharm el-Sheikh 08:50 JZR 238 Amman 18:45 KAC 204 Lahore 07:50 QTR 1080 Doha 18:55 SYR 344 Damascus 18:55 FDB 053 Dubai 07:50 KAC 166 Paris/Rome 19:00 QTR 1087 Doha 08:55 JZR 534 Cairo 09:15 FDB 066 Dubai 18:55 KAC 302 Mumbai 07:55 UAE 875 Dubai 19:05 JZR 124 Bahrain 19:20 QTR 1086 Doha 07:55 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:05 KAC 671 Dubai 09:25 KAC 619 Doha 09:30 GFA 218 Bahrain 19:50 KAC 352 Kochi 08:15 FDB 063 Dubai 19:10 KAC 787 Jeddah 09:30 FDB 064 Dubai 19:50 KAC 344 Chennai 08:15 ABY 123 Sharjah 19:20 KAC 117 New York 09:40 QTR 1081 Doha 19:55 UAE 855 Dubai 08:25 MSR 606 Luxor 19:30 JZR 482 Istanbul 09:40 ABY 124 Sharjah 20:00 KAC 362 Colombo 08:30 JAI 572 Mumbai 19:35 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:45 KAC 361 Colombo 20:00 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:05 KAC 774 Riyadh 19:40 UAE 856 Dubai 09:50 MSR 619 Alexandria 20:30 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 09:10 AGY 684 Sohag 19:50 ETD 302 Abu Dhabi 10:00 JAI 571 Mumbai 20:35 KAC 288 Dhaka 09:25 FDB 061 Dubai 19:50 KAC 511 Mashhad 10:20 FDB 062 Dubai 20:35 IRA 665 Shiraz 09:25 KAC 102 New York/London 19:55 IRA 664 Shiraz 10:25 AGY 681 Alexandria 20:50 KAC 350 Kochi 09:40 KAC 674 Dubai 20:00 FDB 056 Dubai 10:40 KAC 1543 Cairo 20:55 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 OMA 647 Muscat 20:00 GFA 943 LCA 10:55 OMA 648 Muscat 21:00 QTR 1070 Doha 10:00 KAC 1781 Jeddah 20:05 QTR 1071 Doha 11:00 DLH 636 Dammam 21:00 GFA 943 Bahrain 10:10 KNE 480 Taif 20:10 KAC 501 Beirut 11:00 KAC 331 Trivandrum 21:00 IRM 1186 Tehran 10:20 MEA 402 Beirut 20:15 KAC 175 Frankfurt/Geneva 11:15 KAC 283 Dhaka 21:05 UAE 873 Dubai 10:40 DLH 636 Frankfurt 20:20 KAC 561 Amman 11:25 KAC 351 Kochi 21:05 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 ETD 919 Abu Dhabi 20:25 IRM 1181 Mashhad 11:30 KNE 461 Riyadh 21:10 MEA 404 Beirut 10:55 GFA 049 Bahrain 20:45 GFA 214 Bahrain 11:35 MEA 403 Beirut 21:15 MSC 405 Sohag 11:20 KAC 792 Madinah 20:55 JZR 356 Mashhad 11:40 JZR 554 Alexandria 21:15 JZR 561 Sohag 11:25 ALK 229 Colombo 21:10 KAC 741 Dammam 11:50 UAE 876 Dubai 21:25 AGY 680 Alexandria 11:40 UAE 859 Dubai 21:15 MEA 405 Beirut 11:55 GFA 049 Istanbul 21:30 IRM 1188 Mashhad 11:45 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:15 KAC 541 Cairo 12:05 DHX 171 Bahrain 21:50 JZR 165 Dubai 11:50 KAC 546 Alexandria 21:30 UAE 874 Dubai 12:10 ETD 308 Abu Dhabi 22:05 IAW 157 Al Najaf 12:00 FDB 073 Dubai 21:30 KAC 103 London 12:10 FDB 074 Dubai 22:10 AXB 889 Mangalore/Bahrain 12:15 QTR 1074 Doha 21:30 JZR 776 Jeddah 12:15 ALK 230 Colombo 22:20 FDB 075 Dubai 12:25 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:45 MSC 402 Alexandria 12:20 KAC 381 Delhi 22:20 IZG 4167 Mashhad 12:30 ETD 309 Abu Dhabi 22:10 AGY 685 Sohag 12:40 ETD 920 Dubai 22:25 UAE 871 Dubai 12:45 THY 764 Istanbul 22:10 IAW 158 Al Najaf 13:00 UAE 860 Dubai 22:25 MSR 610 Cairo 13:00 JZR 125 Bahrain 22:15 KAC 785 Jeddah 13:00 KAC 349 Kochi 22:30 KAC 620 Doha 13:10 AIC 975 Chennai 22:25 IRM 1189 Mashhad 13:10 KAC 301 Mumbai 22:30 THY 766 Istanbul 13:10 BBC 044 Dhaka/Dammam 22:40 FDB 076 Dubai 13:10 QTR 1075 Doha 22:40 CLX 792 Luxembourg 13:15 FDB 059 Dubai 22:50 JZR 176 Dubai 13:10 GFA 220 Bahrain 22:45 KAC 672 Dubai 13:55 JZR 185 Dubai 22:55 AXB 890 Mangalore 13:15 ETD 310 Abu Dhabi 23:00 QTR 1078 Doha 14:05 JAI 526 Chennai/Abu Dhabi 23:00 JZR 786 Riyadh 13:20 KAC 205 Islamabad 23:05 KNE 460 Riyadh 14:10 FDB 071 Dubai 23:35 IZG 4168 Mashhad 13:30 KAC 203 Lahore 23:10 FDB 057 Dubai 14:20 KLM 411 Amsterdam/Dammam 23:40 MSR 611 Cairo 14:00 FDB 060 Dubai 23:50 GFA 221 Bahrain 14:20 THY 767 Istanbul 14:10 KAC 415 Kuala Lumpur/Jakarta 23:50 DIAL161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION stars34 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

CROSSWORD 866 STAR TRACK

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

The planet positions this afternoon will present the perfect time to You might feel a bit rudderless today. Try to avoid making really adjust and create goals and renew your future plans. Think about where important decisions. Stay out of uncharted waters-the course will be you have been regarding your life experiences and where you might like to go or much clearer tomorrow. This may be a period of hard work and responsibility, what you might like to do next. Complete unfinished tasks and try not to start any both in salvaging some endeavors that appear to be failing and in branching out new ones for now. Your mind is alert, your objectives are clear and your buoyant opti- in new directions. Many projects come to fruition, especially large ones. mism will help win your way through the work maze today. This afternoon, you and Throughout this month, most aspects are positive. You can successfully get your friends could enjoy physical activity, like sports or games. Your energies are bal- through today if you keep that sense of humor of yours upbeat, positive and in its anced and many people find you content with your position and accomplishments in proper place. There are many opportunities to meet people and make new friends. life. You may be looking forward to diving into a pet project this evening, after the cel- This is a good time to solidify existing friendships while gaining the affections of ebrations. old acquaintances.

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

This should be one of those feel good days. You feel good about your Finish-rather-than-start is the attitude of this day. Today you have the friends, smoothing ruffled feathers, a love relationship-and if there is none, you may mental concentration and discipline to work out the final details of a feel good about finding one. The only things you do not feel good about are work and past project, but you may not be up to blocking out the broad borders of a new one. self-discipline-watch the finances! You may as well go on feeling good about every- Once you start on a task today, you will find yourself seeing things through to the end. thing else! Cooperation, support and service will bring you to a new level of life expe- Your communicative powers may be a bit pinched-it would be best to put off any rience. Be aware of what your motivations are and express yourself with no expecta- negotiations requiring personal contact. Patience and a positive attitude will be the tions of a return on your time or feelings. This is a time during which you could answer to the frustrations of this day. Many conversations about out-of-touch friends accomplish a lot through sheer discipline-control of your energy and drive. You may may have you finding ways to get in touch with these people soon. Perhaps a reunion appear very at ease today. Your loved ones may find you especially fun to be with this is in the works. A forgotten debt that someone owes you is remembered this evening evening. and is easily repaid.

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

This is a powerfully energetic time that instills great ambition in you. Try Today, your sensitivity to the needs of others is acute and your desire to to channel some of this energy into constructive enterprises. Refrain help is strong. This should be one super day to work with people. If you from forcing issues in business at this time. Today is filled with joyous and harmonious are a salesperson, you should double your quota today! You have a deep desire to suc- feelings. A new friendship or romance started today has a bright and long-lasting ceed and accomplish much. You reap what you sow; thus working hard now will most likely pay off with many good times with friends and family in the future. This after- ACROSS 2. The fleshy part of the human body that you future. Your energy is high and your creative juices are flowing-ready to be applied to whatever work is at hand. This time usually brings about good conditions among co- noon, there is a desire and an opportunity to understand another person’s psyche, 1. A secret agent hired by a state to obtain (mil- sit on. workers, particularly with the opposite sex. If emotional fences need mending, today especially a close friend. A deeply emotional talk with a loved one is rewarding this itary) information about its enemies or by a 3. A resort city in southern Ukraine on the is a good day for the task because you are in a truly mellow mood. Home is a nice evening. Take the time to really listen. Look into temporarily taking on a vegetarian business to obtain industrial secrets from Black Sea. place to be this evening, and you may be pleased to discover someone else is serving diet that is rich in organic fruits and vegetables, providing energy and a boost to your competitors. 4. Grayish baboon of southern and eastern the evening meal. immune system. 4. Made clean. Africa. 12. A local and habitual twitching especially in 5. A white soft metallic element that tarnishes the face. readily. 15. A self-funded retirement plan that allows 6. A genus of evergreen shrub that grows in Cancer (June 21-July 22) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) you to contribute a limited yearly sum New Zealand. Today, your sensitivity to the needs of others is acute and your desire to toward your retirement. 7. 100 agorot equal 1 shekel. You may feel rushed this morning but there is time to get many things accomplished before the day begins. Having high energy spurts, you will help is strong. This should be one super day to work with people. If you are 16. Eastern subspecies of northern oriole. 8. The compass point that is one point west of a salesperson, you should double your quota today! You have a deep desire to succeed 17. 10 hao equal 1 dong. find it easy to forget your personal thoughts as you attempt to accomplish many due north. things around the office in a short amount of time. Perhaps you could make a list and and accomplish much. You reap what you sow; thus working hard now will most likely 18. A republic on the island of Malta in the 9. Estrangement from god. mark off the achieved projects one at a time. This way you eliminate doing too many pay off with many good times with friends and family in the future. This afternoon, there Mediterranean. 10. Abnormal redness of the skin resulting things at once. Your interest in investing is high. You seek investments more through is a desire and an opportunity to understand another person’s psyche, especially a close 20. Resident of a college town not affiliated from dilation of blood vessels (as in sun- rational, intellectual processes than with brute, physical actions. Watching the results friend. A deeply emotional talk with a loved one is rewarding this evening. Take the time with the college. burn or inflammation). of investments that successful people have achieved may give you insight into your to really listen. Look into temporarily taking on a vegetarian diet that is rich in organic 22. Someone who attacks. 11. A doctor's degree in religion. own future investment patterns. Perhaps a financial advisor would be beneficial. fruits and vegetables, providing energy and a boost to your immune system. 24. An inhabitant of ancient Thebes. 12. 100 thebe equal 1 pula. 26. Remote city of Kazakhstan that (ostensibly 13. The United Nations agency concerned with for security reasons) was made the capital atomic energy. Aquarius (January 20- February 18) in 1998. 14. Conduct or direct the steering of a ship or Leo (July 23-August 22) 28. Date used in reckoning dates before the plane. Your energy could be at a slow pace just now, making you extremely sensi- There may be some serious decision made about the future of a project, supposed year Christ was born. 19. Flightless New Zealand birds similar to tive. Your heightened sensitivity may be directed to others, however, and investment or term of employment with your business at this time. This 30. A river in north central Switzerland that gallinules. you can pass the day successfully doing good deeds for those around you. This is not the is a most beneficial time to exchange ideas and seek out new ventures in which to runs northeast into the Rhine. 21. Not often. time to invest or purchase items that are not necessary just now. You may engage in capitalize. Courage and confidence reign. Others will follow your lead in any group 31. Tall woody perennial grasses with hollow 23. An ancient Hebrew unit of capacity equal many emotional shifts and feel that your work and career are inadequate-perhaps you effort. Your energy remains high this afternoon and the time is perfect for getting slender stems especially of the genera to 10 baths or 10 ephahs. are thinking of changing jobs. Perseverance should be exercised as much as possible some exercise or for shopping. Just make sure any new projects are short-term. Your since slow and steady win the race. Evaluate your job situation when your energies are position in society and your responsibilities as an adult are seriously examined now. Arundo and Phragmites. 25. A tool with a flat blade attached at right You may be very pleased at what you find. You enjoy good relations with family mem- 34. Profane or obscene expression usually of angles to a long handle. more positive. Your relationships are harmonious-it’s a good time to be intimate with loved ones. If you are not already in love, watch out . . . The love bug is nearby. bers and the financial position may improve because of your association with a rela- surprise or anger. 27. Silver-coated candy bead for decorating tive. 35. At right angles to the length of a ship or air- cakes. plane. 29. A warning against certain acts. 38. Evergreen trees and shrubs having oily one- 32. Having short a smooth or spirally ridged seeded fruits. shell with thick usually toothed outer lip Virgo (August 23-September 22) Pisces (February 19-March 20) 40. The eleventh month of the civil year. and toothed operculum. 42. Primitive chlorophyll-containing mainly 33. A metrical unit with stressed-unstressed- Stay out of uncharted waters today-the course will be much clearer Your mind is working very fast today. The world around you appears to be going in slow motion. Perception is accurate. Complex problems are aquatic eukaryotic organisms lacking true unstressed syllables. tomorrow. New ways to communicate or an easy manner will make conversations and interactions go well. You may find yourself more talkative and easygoing just now. solved quickly and insights come in a flash. This is a good day to tackle some new stems and roots and leaves. 36. The Tibeto-Burman language spoken in the Public relations problems from yesterday-dissolve. A dialogue with superiors may technical discipline that may have had you worried you before today-such as mathe- 43. Made from residue of grapes or apples after Dali region of Yunnan. prove lucrative. Stability and permanence satisfy a deep emotional need. There may matics or science. You tend to be extremely ambitious on the professional level. It is pressing. 37. An extension at the end and at right angles be little time to do things with friends or family tonight. It is a good idea, however, to important to develop a team attitude so as not to alienate fellow workers that are 44. (sports) The chief official (as in boxing or to the main building. take the time to give someone you care about a call. Music is likely to play a more negative. Leave any task that requires mechanical plodding for another day. This is not American football) who is expected to 39. The fur of a rabbit. important role for you than usual. You may find yourself purchasing concert tickets or a particularly good time to invest, unless the venture is well planned and researched. ensure fair play. 41. Any of several small ungulate mammals of enjoying productions of music performances on some form of recording. There is fluency in your social skills, making it a good evening to be with friends or 49. A sizeable hole (usually in the ground). Africa and Asia with rodent-like incisors loved ones. 50. Slightly dark. and feet with hooflike toes. 52. Excessive desire to eat. 45. An estate held in fee simple or for life. 55. An alloy of iron with small amounts of car- 46. A quantity sufficient to satisfy. bon. 47. Weedy annual native to Europe but widely Yesterday’s Solution 56. Angular distance above the horizon (espe- distributed as a weed especially in wheat. cially of a celestial object). 48. Moths whose larvae are cutworms. 57. (music) Characterized by avoidance of tradi- 51. Cubes of meat marinated and cooked on a tional Western tonality. skewer usually with vegetables. 58. The principal evil jinni in Islamic mythology. 53. The longer of the two telegraphic signals 61. Title for a civil or military leader (especially used in Morse code. in Turkey). 54. (Greek mythology) Daughter of Zeus and 63. An antidepressant drug that acts by block- Demeter. ing the reuptake of serotonin so that more 59. Protective covering made of metal and serotonin is available to act on receptors in used in combat. the brain. 60. A crown-like jewelled headdress worn by 65. A telegram sent abroad. women on formal occasions. 69. African tree having an exceedingly thick 62. (Greek mythology) Goddess of the earth trunk and fruit that resembles a gourd and and mother of Cronus and the Titans in has an edible pulp called monkey bread. ancient mythology. 72. A member of the Siouan people formerly 64. Leafless East Indian vine. living in the Missouri river valley in NE 66. An island in Indonesia east of Java. Nebraska. 67. Concerning those not members of the cler- 74. A river in north central Switzerland that gy. runs northeast into the Rhine. 68. A member of an Iroquoian people formerly 75. The fatty flesh of eel. living on the south shore of Lake Erie in 76. A brimless Scottish cap with a flat top. northern Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania 78. Being two more than fifty. and western New York. 79. An informal term for a father. 70. A defensive missile designed to shoot 80. A great raja. down incoming intercontinental ballistic 81. Water frozen in the solid state. missiles. 71. The cry made by sheep. DOWN 73. A pilgrimage to Mecca. 1. Rock that form the continuous lower layer of 77. A gonadotropic hormone that is secreted the earth's crust. by the anterior pituitary. Yesterday’s Solution

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Aguest of Trout Point Lodge relaxing on a deck overlooking the Tusket River. A prized bolete mushroom found on an edibles hike near Trout Point Lodge. kayaks and canoes ready for guests of Trout Point Lodge. Outdoor adventure at remote lodge in Nova Scotia nto the forest we went with a mushroom hunter and dynamism of the river, as opposed, for example, to being guide, in search of edibles in the speckled light of a on a lake.” Isummer afternoon. The finds: golden chanterelles Almost two decades later, the Tusket still flows and peeking through the moss, reed-thin cucumber root and gurgles below the lodge and out-buildings, ready for the grand prize, a brown-capped bolete, which became kayakers, canoeists, and - in late summer - swimmers. It one of the mushrooms in the beef soup we consumed is home to beavers, trout, waterfowl and wild cranberry that evening. bushes. A wood-burning above-ground spa is a counter- Yes, the evening meal. It is the exclamation point for point to a crisp dip in the Tusket. An elevated walkway a day’s agenda at Trout Point Lodge, a five-star “eco- ends at a raised platform in a calming pool of the river tourism” resort accessible by a gravel and dirt road in with a 360-degree view of shoreline thickets and stands southwestern Nova Scotia 40 miles from the coastal port of white birch, ash, maple, hemlock and pine. By day, the of Yarmouth. Chefs Charles Leary and Vaughn Perret, two solitude and silence there is encompassing; on a clear of the lodge’s partners, create a nightly table d’hote for night, some of the darkest skies in North America reveal guests that is inspired by Cajun cooking in faraway New a sparkly dome of countless stars. The Rapids of the Tusket River that flows by Trout Point Lodge. Orleans. That, in turn, was inspired by the food of Nova Scotia’s French Acadian settlers who were displaced in Multi-tasking staff the 18th century by British conquerors. Pack swim suits, hiking boots, outdoor apparel, an Instead of flying to Halifax 170 miles (274 kilometers) appetite and perhaps a book to read on the spacious away or driving through New Brunswick Province, we veranda where the only interruptions are darting chip- traveled from Portland, Maine, via the overnight Nova munks and an occasional hummingbird. Off-road bicy- Star ferry, in an ocean-view cabin in the huge ship’s bow, cles, fly rods, waders, the kayaks and canoes and other then disembarked at Yarmouth for the brief journey by equipment are already part of Trout Point’s inventory. rental car to Trout Point. With roads becoming narrower, The multi-tasking staff cooks, waits tables, collects food- we turned with rising curiosity onto a canopied lane that stuffs from the gardens and takes drink orders before ended at Trout Point’s main house of massive logs and dinner. Besides being the edible hike guide, our mush- granite. room hunter Brendon Smith is a massage therapist and a The concept of “gourmet meets wilderness” was classical guitarist who offers lessons on site and plays for established right away, it being lunchtime. Our server, guests in the evening. Wild cucumber root harvested during an edibles hike near Trout Point Kara Crowell, in a starched white waiter’s coat, brought The owners may pitch in to staff the front desk, Lodge. bowls of chunky shrimp and bean soup in the cozy where oatmeal cookies and white wine await new downstairs dining hall, followed by the main course, arrivals, but their primary focus is on cuisine. Each after- fresh mussels steamed in saffron, garlic and butter. We The front porch at Trout Point Lodge in the Tobeatic noon, the menu is determined by the day’s shopping would see the same server later in a much different out- Wilderness in Nova Scotia, Canada. — AP photos and discoveries of “wild delicacies.” The day doesn’t con- fit. clude until the last of the meals are served and the “The vegetables and herbs are grown on site,” says customers of New Orleans’ French Market and then to paperwork - invoices for tomorrow’s checkouts and the co-owner Leary. “The wild foods are collected by hand, restaurants like Commander’s Palace and Emeril’s. like - is done. the salmon is smoked a few yards from the kitchen, the Though food service was part of Perret’s background, he Which brings us back to Crowell, our food server and bread is baked each day. The fish is caught on the nearby was a lawyer and Leary was a Chinese historian when an ebullient mother of two who lives nearby. After lunch coast, the yogurt firms sitting on a high kitchen shelf.” they took a flier on Chicory Farm. on the first day, the next time she was seen in lumber- That brought them in 1996 to the historic homeland jack gear, having wielded a chain saw to clear trails clut- Historic homeland of Acadians in Nova Scotia and the purchase of 200 acres tered with fallen logs from a hurricane two weeks This is not surprising, considering his and partner (81 hectares) of untouched woodlands, bisected by the before. — AP Perret’s background. They emigrated from Louisiana, Tusket and Napier Rivers. “It’s actually not so easy to find where they helped found Chicory Farm in 1990 to pro- land that was not within eyeshot of a major timber hold- vide sustainable cheeses, produce and wild foods first to ing, but we succeeded,” says Leary. “We also like the Guide Brendon Smith of Trout Point Lodge showing how to harvest wild mushrooms.

Anderson urges Zimbabwe to stop export of baby elephants -Canadian actress Pamela Anderson yesterday halls with cyanide. Park authorities said lack of funds limited called for Zimbabwe to stop the export of dozens patrols by game rangers leaving animals at the mercy of USof baby elephants to China and the United Arab poachers. A conference of elephant experts in Botswana last Emirates in what the authorities say is a move to raise funds to month heard that African elephants could be extinct in the run game reserves. Anderson, an honorary director of the ani- wild within a few decades due to poaching for ivory. The mal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals Zimbabwe government was not immediately available to (PETA), described the plight of young pachyderms currently comment on Anderson’s letter. — AFP caged in holding pens as “heart-breaking”. “I am writing you to urge you to do everything in your power to assist in the efforts to stop such profiteering at the expense of wildlife,” Anderson said in her letter to Environment Minister Saviour Kasukuwere. The planned sale of the baby elephants has drawn condemnation following the publication of leaked images of the animals in holding pens. “I have been deeply upset by the heart-breaking news about the 80 or so baby elephants who were torn away from their families, many even witnessing their own family’s gruesome slaughter,” the former Baywatch star said. Zimbabwe wildlife authorities last December announced plans to export at least 62 elephants, saying that the country could cope with 42,000 elephants but had a population of 80,000. They say the export would fund the running of game parks while a portion of the money would be allocated to communities bordering game reserves. The elephants’ exact destination has not been disclosed, but they are likely to be used as show animals or as zoo attractions. Exporting ele- phants is not illegal, and Zimbabwe officials say the trade is within CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) regulations. Last year at least 300 elephants died in Hwange national

park after poachers poisoned the environs of their watering Anderson Pamela

The season of good luck and Pablosky spring summer 2015 ecret gardens full of flowers are the perfect environ- are awaiting them. Meanwhile, lime provides vibrant ment to let the children’s imagination fly. Pablosky accents in the detailing and is simply redolent of summer. Sspring/summer 2015 campaign shows beautiful For boys it’s military, fantasy and sporty. We’ve interpreted prosperity begins at Joyalukkas places, some more exotic, tropical others, some adventure camouflage designs in new patterns and play with tropical island type, where the textures of clothing and footwear themes in combination with bold colors such as mustard. he world’s favorite jeweler, Joyalukkas has announced a getting a gift is considered as a blessing for prosperity, so we mix with the baskets, garden benches, planters, ham- The golden rule for this summer is: fresh, with some bright gift filled celebration for the auspicious period of have tailored our Akshaya Tritiya to keep the spirit of the occa- mocks, all surrounded by colorful plants and flowers. The touches. The combination of materials, soft and washed TAkshaya Tritiya across its showrooms. The initiative will sion. I take this opportunity to wish people celebrating landscape that best represents the season: the view of a leathers which are pleasant to touch, metallic laminated offer an exciting choice of free gold coins and exquisite collec- Akshaya Tritiya, good health, wealth and prosperity.” said Joy garden full of almond blossoms. leathers and decorative details ensure that the collection tions to double the joy of shoppers during the celebration Alukkas, Chairman and MD, Joyalukkas Group. Colors are the key to spring/summer 2015. For the girls, remains nonetheless exciting. Head over to Pablosky and period. Akshaya Tritiya is considered as a very auspicious occa- “Akshaya Tritiya is special for our customers hence we the themes are romantic and fashion fairy; so for the ones shop our latest Spring Summer collection available at The sion and it is believed that gold and jewelry purchased on this launched a gifting initiative to ensure our customers feel lucky who love pink, a broad range with unique shades from Mall, The Avenues. special day will help bring home prosperity, good luck and and blessed during the celebration period. Our offers and magenta to lilac, passing through coral and lipstick colors, success. To compliment the spirit of the festival, customers choice of products have been designed to meet all jewellery shopping for Diamond and Polki jewelry worth KD 400 will be shoppers expectation and make the occasion very special for gifted a 2gm 22K gold coin. In addition to this on the auspi- them.” said John Paul Joy Alukkas, Executive Director, cious day, customers shopping for KD 250 and more worth of Joyalukkas Group. jewelry will also get a free gold coin. Also No Making Charge Joyalukkas is an ISO certified jeweler with 95 showrooms on purchase of eight gram gold coins. across 10 countries across the world. Joyalukkas has been Joyalukkas is also offering exclusive collections at very awarded the Superbrand status, six years in a row in the UAE. special prices during the celebration period. “Gold and jewelry is considered the ultimate symbol of wealth and prosperity. It is also believed that purchase of gold and jewelry during Akshaya Tritiya brings home good luck and prosperity. Also lifestyle WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

Music & Movies Acting for a reason Sankar exploring idioms of theatre through cultures

By Sajeev K Peter and some without. This diversity is promising,” he Lullabies” is an open-ended voice performance said talking about the emerging trends in contem- based on the Indian epic “Mahabharata”. Henrik ankar Venkateswaran believes that one has to porary Indian theatre. “However, when you look at Ibsen’s “When We Dead Awaken” (2012) was pro- act for a reason. A well-known Indian theatre Malayalam theatre, only very few productions have duced in collaboration with Urs Dietrich from Sdirector, Venkateswaran has always been inter- been able to successfully pitch into the changing Germany, which was commissioned by Delhi Ibsen ested in exploring idioms of theatre through the scenes of Indian theatre,” he pointed out. Festival with support from Goethe-Institut, New exchange and sharing of cultures. “The experiment Delhi. that we are in process now is to extend our practice Specialization Venkateswaran, who has travelled in India and of cultural creations to domains of tribal culture in Venkateswaran graduated from Calicut outside extensively and collaborated with order to integrate isolated communities into larger University School of Drama & Fine Arts with a first renowned theatre persons and troupes, said each social structures,” he told Kuwait Times in an inter- rank, specializing in theatre direction. He also spe- collaboration and each encounter prompted him to view. Venkateswaran, who is organizing theatre cialized in acting and completed Theatre Training adapt, understand, and to open up to be under- movements in tribal areas of Kerala, is currently and Research Program (TTRP, now ITI) in Singapore. stood. “It is not always pleasurable, but certainly an engaged in setting up his own theatre in Attapady, a He founded his own troupe ‘Theatre Roots & experience of learning. What is most rewarding socially and financially backward tribal area in Wings’ in Kerala in 2007. Theatre Roots & Wings pro- about such collaboration is the change that hap- Kerala. duced five milestone productions. ‘Quick Death’ was pens within oneself,” Venkateswaran quipped. He has been invited to direct plays outside India. For producing Bhasa’s “Urubhangam”, he was invited to Japan by The Japan Foundation and Shinshu University. The play with a cast of all-Japanese actors premiered at the Matsumoto Performing Arts Centre in Nagano, Japan, and “Neerina Niluthana” for Marutirugata Repertory Company of Ninasam Theatre Institute, Karnataka.

Not just observers “In Indian theatre, traditionally, audiences are not just passive observers, but vital co-creators of the theatrical experiences,” Venkateswaran pointed out. “They are also open to experimentation and con- temporary practices. They are critical, demanding, and supportive,” he remarked outlining the percepti- ble changes in the aesthetics and sensibilities of Indian audiences. Venkateswaran currently serves as the Artistic Director for International Theatre Festival of Kerala (2015, 2016). He has served as the Artistic Director for National Theatre Festival 2012. An experienced theatre trainer, Venkateswaran conducts workshops for various schools and the- atre/dance companies in and outside of India. His (Left) Sankar Venkateswaran will inaugurate the fifth anniver- produced with a full support from India Foundation word of advice for theatre actors on the art and craft Venkateswaran sary celebration of Future Eye Theatre, Kuwait on for the Arts while “Sahyande Makan - The Elephant of acting is, “Act for a reason. And break down your Sankar Venkateswaran plays percussion instruments enacts a scene Friday evening at the Indian Community School, Project” was produced in collaboration with Micari, a acting into its minute details.” during a theatre workshop. during a Salmiya. He will also conduct a theatre workshop distinguished actor from Japan. The play traveled production. titled ‘The Art and Craft of Acting’ on Saturday morn- extensively in India and abroad including New Delhi, ing at ICSK (Amman branch), Salmiya. Mumbai, Gimhae and Korea. “Indian theatre has diversified in the past 10 Shogo Ohta’s silent play “The Water Station” was years or so. Various genres of theatres are being his next work, which was co-produced by The Japan explored, most of them with institutional support Foundation, New Delhi, with an all-India cast. “101

Swift, Smith earn nominations Allen, Blanchett, McConaughey at Cannes? ith the Cannes Film Festival set to open in just “Mad Max: Fury Road”. The dystopian sci-fi movie, the for Billboard over a month’s time, speculation is swirling over fourth in the high-action “Mad Max” franchise and the Wwhich films-and which top directors and actors- first to star British actor Tom Hardy in the title role, will be could be getting their moment under the French Riviera shown out of competition on May 14 just before its Music Awards sun. Woody Allen is seen as more than likely to be walk- worldwide release. “Fury Road” co-stars Charlize Theron, ing the red carpet with his new flick, “Irrational Man”, star- who is expected to saunter up the red-carpeted steps. aylor Swift’s mega-selling ring Joaquin Phoenix. Cate Blanchett might also be She could put on another dress and put in another “1989” album has earned her a along for her movie “Carol”. And fellow Oscar-winner appearance for “The Last Face”, a film she is in that is Tnomination for top artist at the Matthew McConaughey could appear for “The Sea of directed by Sean Penn and also stars Javier Bardem. 2015 Billboard Music Awards. Swift’s Trees” the latest film by director Gus Van Sant, which also “Harry Potter” actress Emma Watson and “Boyhood” competition includes Sam Smith, stars Naomi Watts. star Ethan Hawke might be along if “Regression”, by Ariana Grande, One Direction and Cannes’s organizers jealously guard their selections Spanish director Alejandro Amenabar (who made “The Katy Perry. Ludacris and Pete Wentz for the competition line-up and the out-of-competition Others”, “The Sea Inside”) is selected. Then there’s Colin announced some of the nominees program until a month before the film fest opens. This Farrell and Rachel Weisz in the “The Lobster”, a sci-fi tale yesterday on ABC’s “Good Morning year, the movies to be shown at Cannes will be financed with Irish money and directed by Greece’s America.” Swift’s “1989” is a finalist for announced on April 16, and the festival will run from May Yorgos Lanthimos. Or Jesse Eisenberg, Gabriel Byrne and top Billboard 200 album, where it will 13 to 24. Isabelle Huppert in “Louder Than Bombs” by Norwegian battle efforts from Smith, Ed filmmaker Joachim Trier. Sheeran, Maroon 5 and Pentatonix. A cocktail of cinema Swift is also up for top female The organizers have a dizzying task in choosing which Asia anticipation artist and top hot 100 song for the movies make the cut, wading through some 1,800 films Italy’s flag could flutter over “Mia Madre”, the most hit “Shake It Off.” Smith also earned to winnow them down to short lists. The director of the recent picture by Nanni Moretti who won Cannes’s top multiple nominations, including top festival, Thierry Fremaux, said last week that “there is no prize the Palme d’Or in 2001, or maybe “La Giovinezza” by male artist and top hot 100 song for more than a third of the selection definitively decided”. Paolo Sorrentino, whose “Grande Bellezza” (“The Great “Stay With Me.” More finalists will be He added that he and his selection committee “watch the Beauty”) won a foreign picture Oscar last year. Asia, as announced later. The show will air movies right to the end”. Cannes mixes international art- always, is expected to be well represented. Thailand’s attention is being thrown on “The Little Prince”, a big- live on ABC on May 17 from the MGM house cinema, Hollywood blockbusters, extravagant par- Apichatpong Weerasethakul has just completed a budget French animation directed by US filmmaker Mark Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. ties, industry wheeling and dealing, and eye-catching romance, “Love in Khon Kaen”, which might screen. Osborne that adapts the famous novel by Antoine de Ludacris and Chrissy Teigen will host publicity stunts in a potent cocktail that has made it the Taiwan’s Hou Hsiao-hsien, a competition veteran, has a Saint-Exupery. — AFP the awards show. — AP pre-eminent global showcase for movies. good chance with martial arts picture “The Assassin”. Finally, of course, Cannes always has a soft spot for ‘Fury Road’ French productions. While directors Jacques Audiard or So far the only movie confirmed to be screened is Arnaud Desplechin might screen their latest films, much A new album - and lawsuit - puts Prince protege in spotlight udith Hill is used to false starts in her career. tary “20 Feet from Stardom.” “Sometimes you have He also urged her to perfect her live show. “That She was set to have a major platform as to cry a little bit longer,” she said. Hill’s attorney is what drives the career. The music is just part of JMichael Jackson’s backup singer for his “This Is Peter Haviland called the lawsuit crazy and said: the advertisement of the show,” she said. “One of It” comeback concerts when he died before they “Prince supports, promotes and gives opportunity the things he talks about a lot is finding unconven- could begin; she was also a leading contender on to truly exceptional talent like Judith Hill.” tional ways to put music out, and there’s so many NBC’s “The Voice” in 2013 before getting voted off ways to do it now.” Prince’s influence can be heard before the finals. So Hill seemed unfazed when she Brought purity on the album, with its funk leanings and guitar discussed her newest career hurdle: lawsuits She is set to open for Prince during his US. “Hit & licks, and he helped with her arrangements. But Hill involving her debut album “Back in Time,” featuring Run” pop-up tour. The two connected after he saw is credited with writing all the songs on the album, her mentor Prince. an interview in which she mentioned she wanted with occasional help from others. The first track, “As BB King plays during his 10,000th career “Obviously, it’s unfortunate, but I think that peo- to work with her musical idol; he invited her to his Trains Go By,” a searing political song, references performance in an appearance at his club in ple are getting behind me and seeing the realities Paisley Park studios near Minneapolis to record. the police-related killings of Michael Brown and New York. — AP of what it is to be in this business and the struggle “Rather than being cooped up in a studio in a tradi- Eric Garner. and the fight, and supporting me as I go through tional way ... it was all about bringing it back to the “It’s sad and it’s heartbreaking to see that we are this,” Hill said by phone last week. The 30-year-old live music and the old-school way of doing it,” she still struggling with the same things that we have BB King Hill’s album was released, for free, to Live Nation said. “It brought purity back to the songs that I had been struggling with for the last 100 years,” she email subscribers late last month, along with a per- written. ... I felt really honored to have learned so said. So far, thousands of albums have been down- sonal note from Prince. “Please spend some time much from him in that process.” loaded, said Hill (Live Nation did not return hospitalized for with this music and then share it with someone U requests seeking comment). It’s unclear where the love,” Prince wrote. album will go from here, given that it is now in dehydration Days later, a producer who signed Hill to Sony’s legal limbo. It seems to be another bump in the lues musician B.B. King has been hospi- label sued Prince, claiming the superstar interfered road for Hill on her path to stardom, but she is talized, but his daughter says he is with plans to release Hill’s debut album, squander- undeterred. “I am the greatest in what I’m doing doing “much better.” The Los Angeles ing hundreds of thousands of dollars spent devel- and that’s going to keep rising with every chapter B oping Hill’s career and recording her first album. in my life, but the goal is the music. ... Stardom is Times reported Monday that the 89-year-old was in the hospital for dehydration caused by The lawsuit contends Hill was told not to record just the byproduct,” she said. “The most important with Prince several times, but she did it anyway. thing for me is my message gets heard.” — AP Type 2 diabetes. The attorney for the producer, Jolene Cherry, King was diagnosed with diabetes more Taylor Swift poses in the press room declined to comment on the lawsuit, and Hill did than 20 years ago. In October, he canceled his with the awards for best lyrics for not get into specifics. However. Hill has filed a law- concert tour after being diagnosed with dehy- ‘Blank Space’, song of the year for suit of her own against Cherry with various claims ‘Shake It Off’ and artist of the year at dration and exhaustion. The Rock and Roll Hall including fraud, and is asking a New York City court the iHeartRadio Music Awards at The of Famer has released more than 50 albums. to declare she has no contractual obligation to her. Shrine Auditorium on Sunday, March Representatives for King did not initially “I just see it as another point in my story, like the Judith Hill attends Reggie Benjamin’s 29, 2015, in Los Angeles. — AP respond to requests for comment from The lyrics in my song ‘Cry, Cry, Cry’,” said Hill, who was ‘Mission Save Her’ recording session in Los Associated Press. — AP also featured in the 2013, Oscar-winning documen- Angeles. — AP lifestyle WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

Kuwait Beautiful & Green

Group photo shows Vice President of Administration AT of Saudi Arabian Chevron Hadi Al-Qashtani, Kuwait Times Editor -in-Chief Abd Al-Rahman Al-Alyan, Kuwait Times Marketing Director Adnan Saad, and one of the Jury Ameera Ashkinani with the winners.

— Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat and Joseph Shagra

Kuwait Times fetes young artists Winners of the 10th Student Art Competition ‘Kuwait Beautiful and Green’ awarded

By Faten Omar

uwait Times held the award ceremony of the 10th Student Art Competition ‘Kuwait Beautiful and Green’ on Monday Kat the Gulf University for Science and Technology. It was held under the patronage of Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem Al- Hmoud Al-Sabah, Minister of Information and Minister of State for Youth Affairs. The contest was distinguished this year as it cel- ebrated 10 years, with the participation of more than 11,800 stu- dents from the ages of 6 to 18 from over 90 public, private, Arab and foreign schools in Kuwait, in addition to special needs stu- dents. A panel of judges comprising Kuwaiti and expatriate artists evaluated the artwork according to age and category of stu- dents. The categories were Elementary (6-8 and 9-11), Intermediate (12-14), Secondary (15-17) and students with spe- cial needs. The 3 winners of the Elementary 6 to 8 category were Amal Raed Abdulnabi from Al Salam Elementary School, Fatema Hamed Ashkanani from Mishref Elementary School and Albert Sibichan Jacob from Indian Learners Own Academy. The event was sponsored by Saudi Arabian Chevron and Zain, and the closing ceremony was hosted by GUST.

Sponsored by lifestyle WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

Painting by first winner Amal Raed Abdulnabi, Al-Salam Elementary School. Painting by second winner Fatema Hamed Ashkanani, Mishref Elementary School.

Category 6-8 years

1st winner Amal Raed Abdulnabi 5. Abhiram Vinod Kumar Al-Salam Elementary School IES Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan

2nd winner Fatema Hamed Ashkanani 6. Fatima Abdulaziz Al Essa Mishref Elementary School Maatha Al-Adawya

3rd winner Albert Sibichan Jacob 7. Zinovieva Vika Indian Learners Own Academy Russian Embassy

8. Omar Mohammed Mansour Abdulrahman Al-Fareh Runners-up 1. Fida Ancy 9. Qais Mahmoud IES Bharatiya New Pakistan International School

2. Sara Bader 10. Samuel Raed Najeeb Alroya School Jabriya Indian School

3. Mariam Fouad Al-Roudan 11. Harini Suresh Babu Mishref Elementary School Fahaheel Al-Watanieh Indian Private School

4. Arya Mishra 12. Prakhar Bhandari Fahaheel Al-Watanieh Indian Private School IES Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Painting by third winner Albert Sibichan Jacob, Indian Learners Own Academy.

Painting by Fida Ancy, IES Bharatiya. Painting by Sara Bader, Alroya School. Painting by Mariam Fouad Al-Roudan, Mishref Elementary School.

Painting by Arya Mishra, Fahaheel Al-Watanieh Indian Private School. Painting by Arya Mishra, Abhiram Vinod Kumar, IES Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. Painting by Fatma Abdulaziz Al-Essa, Maatha Al-Adawya.

Painting by Zinovieva Vika, Russian Embassy. Painting by Omar Mohammed Mansour, Abdulrahman Al-Fareh. Painting by Qais Mahmoud, New Pakistan International School.

Painting by Samuel Raed Najeeb, Jabriya Indian School. Painting by Harini Suresh Babu, Fahaheel Al-Watanieh Indian Private School. Painting by Prakhar Bhandari, IES Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.

Sponsored by Kuwait Times fetes 38young artists WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2015

A photo shows Ghanaian artist El Anatsui’s art work entitled ‘Earth’s Skin’ on display at the Chaumont-sur-Loire Castle. The Chaumont-sur-Loire chateau, famous for its International Garden Festival, exhibits at its Centre of Arts and Nature from April 4 to November 1, 2015 the works of three twenty Ghanaian artist El Anatsui, Brazilian artist Tunga and Mexican artist Gabriel Orozco. — AFP

Monet sees star rise again at New York auctions

il paintings by impressionist master where they will be on view through May 1. Claude Monet are expected to be stars Auctioneers Christie’s, meanwhile, Oof the spring auction season in New announced Monday it would sell a Monet York, where Sotheby’s believes they could work-”Le parlement, soleil couchant”-for an fetch as much as $110 million. One of the expected $35-45 million on May 11 in New paintings is part of the famous “NymphÈas” York. The record for a single Monet was set in (Water Lilies) series the French artist painted June 2008 when Christie’s in London sold “Le at Giverny. Forecast to sell for an estimated bassin des NymphÈas” for $80.1 million. “The $30-45 million, this work has been held by a six works by Monet that we are privileged to collector since 1955, and has not been seen in present this May represent exactly what buy- public since 1945. ers are seeking at this moment: several of his The six Monet works have been in private most famous scenes, emerging from presti- collections; they are expected to generate a gious private collections and completely lot of enthusiasm on the auction block at fresh to the market,” said Simon Shaw at evening sales. The other works are “Le Palais Sotheby’s. Ducal” painted in 1908 in Venice; it is expect- “We’re undeniably witnessing an excep- ed to fetch $15-20 million; “Bassin aux tional moment for great works by Monet at nymphÈas, les rosiers” from $18-25 million; Sotheby’s. As new generations and new mar- and “Le Chemin d’Epinay, effet de neige” kets rediscover the master, the supply of (1875). It is expected to sell for $6-8 million. strong examples remaining in private hands In addition, “La Seine ‡ VÈtheuil” (1901), is is shrinking fast. The result is fierce competi- expected to bring in $6-8 million; it has been tion that leads to the results we have wit- in private hands since 1955 and has not been nessed recently at Sotheby’s.”—AFP sold at auction. And “Au Val Saint-Nicolas prËs Dieppe, matin” (1897), could fetch $3-4 mil- lion, the auction house said. These six works This combination of images released by Sotheby’s in New York shows a group of six paintings by Claude Monet. Paintings, clockwise from upper left: by the impressionist will be shown in London Nympheas, La Seine Vetheuil, Bassin aux nympheas; les rosiers; Au Val Saint-Nicolas pres Dieppe, matin; Le Palais Ducal; and Le Chemin d’epinay, effet April 10-14, before returning to New York de neige. — AFP

Huge Swatch collection fetches Chinese tycoon Liu snaps US$6 million in Hong Kong up ancient vase for $15 million ne of the biggest private collections of Swatch watches artists were designing for Swatch, so he began collecting the in the world sold for more than US$6 million in Hong watches and related artwork. “Swatch is universal,” he said hinese tycoon Liu Yiqian splashed in yesterday’s auction at which he was would go to Liu’s Long Museum in Kong yesterday, smashing pre-auction estimates. The ahead of the auction. “You can have one for every day of the out nearly HK$114 million ($14.71 bidding by telephone, said Nicolas Chow, Shanghai. The 20-centimetre-tall (eight- O million) on an ancient vase at auc- Sotheby’s international head of Chinese inch) vase is part of a rare collection “superlot” comprising over 5,800 watches-featuring limited week. I often wear one.” Sotheby’s head of watches, Sharon C editions by artists including Keith Haring and a James Bond Chan, said that “serious luxury watch collectors” were also fans tion in Hong Kong yesterday-his latest ceramics and works of art. Chow said the crafted for the imperial court. At the 40th anniversary collection-was snared for over four times its of Swatch. Dunkel’s daughter and grandson accompanied him expensive purchase of a rare artefact unexpectedly high price indicated a same auction yesterday, a Qing emper- estimated sale price after intense bidding. A packed Sotheby’s to the auction. He also has a son and granddaughter. It is they originally from the mainland. The simple buoyant market and strong demand for or’s seal crafted from white jade was sold sales room saw three rivals tussle for the collection, which was who would benefit from the windfall, he said. octagonal piece, an 800-year-old Chinese antiques. for $13.5 million-nearly three times the finally sold for HK$46.7 million (US$6 million) to a phone bid- Southern Song Dynasty work tinted a “We are absolutely thrilled with the pre-auction estimate-to an undisclosed der. It had been expected to fetch US$1.3 million. The bidder milky blue, broke the guide price of $7.7 price for the vase,” he told reporters. “To buyer, Sotheby’s said. — AFP was identified by Sotheby’s as a “European institution” but the million at the sale by Sotheby’s. say it is a masterpiece would be an auction house said they could give no further details. Retired Taxi-driver-turned-financier Liu-chair- understatement.” Chow said the piece Luxembourg insurance broker Paul Dunkel, 68, who amassed man of investment company Sunline the watches over more than two decades, was tearful as he left Group-is one of China’s wealthiest men the sales room. He said the feverish interest in his labor of love and among the country’s new class of as it went on display leading up to the auction had been over- super-rich scouring the globe for art- whelming-crowned by a result beyond expectations. works. The 51 year-old broke the world “In the last two months... everybody’s been very interested auction record for Chinese porcelain in (in the collection) and that is my heart, my work,” an emotional April last year when he bought a Ming Dunkel told AFP. “The material result is for me not the most Dynasty wine cup-known as the “chicken important, (although) it’s very nice!” he added. An auctioneer cup”-for $36 million, which he subse- sealed the sale with an oversized transparent gavel, which was quently famously drank tea from. In November he snapped up a Tibetan created by Swatch for a charity auction in the 1990s and is part A woman looks at Swatch watches from the Dunkel col- silk tapestry for $45 million at Christie’s in of the collection. lection displayed by auction house Sothebyís in Hong Hong Kong, setting another world record Kong. — AFP Anonymous collector for any Chinese work of art sold by an Credited with breathing new life into the ailing Swiss watch “It’s for the children and the kids, to have a good life,” he international auction house. Liu, who also industry after its launch in 1983, Swatch quickly became a cul- told AFP when asked what he would do with the money. Hong owns his own museum in Shanghai, has tural phenomenon with its multi-colored plastic designs and Kong has a precedent for successful Swatch sales-in 2011 said he is on a mission to bring ancient largely affordable price tags. It is the world’s biggest watch another large collection sold for more than US$6 million to an Chinese artefacts back to the country. group although it saw net profit dive 26.6 per cent in 2014, anonymous Chinese collector at auction in the city. “I hope the “My museum and myself will partici- despite record sales. new owner continues to add to the collection, to show it,” said pate in bidding in future when we see The company attributed the profit dip to a massive invest- Dunkel. “For me, it’s too much work and it’s not possible to con- good artwork,” he said during a visit to Deputy Chairman for Sotheby’s Asia and the International Head of Chinese ment drive. Dunkel’s obsession started in the 1980s. Already a tinue.”— AFP Hong Kong last month to take up the Ceramics and Works of Art, Nicolas Chow, displays a ‘Guan’ octagonal vase from collector of abstract art, he realized that some of his favorite ownership of the 600-year-old tapestry. Liu beat seven other prospective buyers China’s Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279 AD). — AFP