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Thursday 28 February 2013 18 Rabial II 1434 - Volume 17 Number 5624 Price: QR2

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Business | 17 Sport | 36

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 4455 7741 | Advertising: 4455 7837 / 4455 7780 Qatar-Oman Media should act responsibly: Emir joint tourist Emir addresses fifth Global Forum on Alliance of Civilisations in Vienna visa for 33

DOHA: Freedom of expression importance of consolidating the countries comes with responsibility and effort to correct fallacies and writers and journalists should address all destructive trends that not ignore this fact in their promote the spread of hatred, DOHA: Tourists from several efforts to attract more audi- extremism and violence and block countries can soon visit Qatar ences, the Emir H H Sheikh the prospects of dialogue and and Oman on a single visa. Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani alliance among civilisations. The Both countries recently signed told an international audience major test in this respect is not an agreement to issue a com- in Vienna yesterday. what we say in conferences but mon tourist visa for citizens of “Understanding others and in tackling such destructive ideas 33 countries on arrival at Doha respecting their cultures and internally, when they assume a International Airport, according beliefs and the renunciation of form of political demagogy that an announcement on the Ministry extremism, hatred and racism would embarrass rulers, or when of Interior (MoI) website. are the most effective ways to their ban contradicts the freedom The visa holder can travel from plug the pretexts used by those of expression, so we need methods Qatar to Oman without taking who try to exploit these manifes- of enlightenment, or even find- a separate visa, provided that tations to encourage violence and ing new legal means to address he does not go to a third coun- terrorism. The growing responsi- them,” he added. The Emir said try during the visit. The visa is bility of media in portraying the the Forum had assumed a great valid for one month and can be right image of the other while significance at the present, when extended for another. avoiding prejudices and stere- the severity of divisions have “The State of Qatar has signed otyping others, and looking at increased as a result of tensions, an agreement with the Sultanate the facts to judge accordingly,” conflicts and instability in many of Oman to provide joint tour- said the Emir. parts of the world. ist visa,” the MoI website said Addressing the fifth Global “No doubt that the complexities yesterday. Forum of The United Nations of striking a balance between the “The beneficiary is permitted to Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) freedom of expression and respect travel freely between Qatar and in Vienna, the Emir underlined the and protection of the rights, sanc- Oman during the validity period need for building trust between tities, beliefs and feelings of oth- of the visa provided that he shall nations and peoples saying that ers, and the failure to criminalize not leave for a third country dur- the past years had witnessed “an The Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser with UN Secretary-General Ban racist practices are all contrib- ing the period. In that case he has increase in the manifestations of Ki-moon on the sidelines of the 5th Global Forum of The United Nations Alliance of Civilisations in Vienna, yesterday. uting to strengthening the clash to apply for a new visa again,” the misunderstanding about Islam and (MAHER ATTAR) of civilisations’ myth, helping website added. the Islamic civilisation in addition root hate language in the collec- The common tourist visa will to the Muslims’ suffering from Basescu, Turkish Prime Minister He said the media should take writers and journalists might be tive consciousness, sparking the be issued to citizens of Andorra, marginalisation, discrimination Recep Tayyip Erdogan, UN into consideration that they have carrying preconceived notions as flame of conflict, and undermining Austria, Britain, Canada, and hatred in many parts of the Secretary General Ban Ki-moon a mission and a humanitarian a result of their own upbring- efforts to disseminate the princi- Finland, Germany, Hong Kong, globe”. and a number of other dignitaries. responsibility, and that “even ing and nurture, and that free- ples of convergence and co-exist- Ireland, Japan, Luxembourg, H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser The Emir said the role of media under the domination of market dom of expression is vital but not ence and promotion of cultural Monaco, New Zealand, Portugal, attended the session, along with is to portray the right image of the laws its mission should surpass enough, and must be coupled with diversity among peoples,” said the Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, Austrian President Heinz Fischer, “other”, while avoiding precon- excitement, and to secure high responsibility.” Emir. THE PENINSULA Vatican, Australia, Belgium, Romanian President Traian ceived notions and stereotyping. rates of audience, and that their “Therefore, we underline the Continued on page 6 Brunei, Denmark, France, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Lichtenstein, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, San Marino, South Korea, Sweden and United States. The visa applicant should be a citizen of the 33 countries men- Qatar helps free Swiss hostage tioned in the agreement and his passport needs to be valid for not BY ISABEL OVALLE H E Ali bin Fahad Al Hajiri, and Apparent,” he added, while less than 6 months. The visa will the Swiss Ambassador Martin highlighting that her plans can’t not be issued for a temporary DOHA: Swiss teacher Sylvia Aeschbacher. be disclosed for the moment. passport holder. The applicant Abrahat, who was kidnapped The Swiss citizen was received The Assistant Foreign should have a return air ticket. in Yemen almost a year ago, by numerous members of the Minister said: “We welcome THE PENINSULA arrived in Doha today at about media upon her arrival but did her after her release and thank 1am. not make any comments. our team who had worked for a The Swiss teacher was freed On his part, the Swiss few months to reach this happy thanks to Qatar’s mediation and Ambassador said that “we are ending.” US readies more her plans were not disclosed for very happy that Ms Sylvia has He also thanked the the moment. been released and thank eve- Government of Yemen that Iran sanctions Visibly tired, but relaxed, ryone who helped in her happy “gave us the chance for her the teacher landed at Doha release.” to leave so fast because this WASHINGTON: US lawmak- International Airport where “We thank specially the Qatari is a humanitarian issue,” he Assistant Foreign Minister H E Ali bin Fahad Al Hajiri and the Swiss Ambassador ers were introducing legislation she was welcomed by the authorities and personally concluded. Martin Aeschbacher receiving Sylvia Abrahat this morning. (KAMMUTTY VP) yesterday that would tighten Assistant Foreign Minister H H the Emir and the Heir THE PENINSULA sanctions on Iran, even as Tehran agreed to future talks with world powers over its con- tested nuclear drive. Check-in at new airport The bipartisan House bill would allow President Barack Obama to impose penalties on foreign enti- Ooredoo launch in ties that provide Iran with goods to help maintain its struggling economy. The Nuclear Iran Prevention Qatar by mid-March Act of 2013 also would provide Obama with broader authority DOHA: Qtel is expected to meet our clients’ ambitions,” to target strategic imports, such appear with its new brand name Marafih said. He also said that as mining or power generating in Qatar by mid-March. the name Ooredoo will not be equipment that could help Iran “Qtel will become Ooredoo translated into Arabic since it is with its nuclear programme, from mid-March in Qatar, as very simple and its articulation is which the West and Israel say is announced in Barcelona this clear, according to the daily. a front for weapons development. week,” Qtel said in a statement “The company is currently AFP issued to this daily yesterday. studying a number of options for Following the re-branding of further expansion in different Qatar telecommunication com- markets,” he said. pany earlier this week, Dr Nasser All the operating companies in Today’s edition Marafih, Ooredoo Group CEO, which Qtel owns a majority inter- includes said that Ooredoo is expected to est will adopt the new brand name a four-page special launch its new brand by March under a two-year phase out plan, 11 in Qatar, a local Arabic daily the Ooredoo Group CEO said. supplement on reported yesterday. “The companies have already Speaking at a press confer- prepared for the next step,” he ence at the GSMA Mobile World added. The Minister of Business People line up before check-in counters during a trial of Hamad International Airport (HIA) yesterday. Conducted Congress in Barcelona, Marafih and Trade H E Sheikh Jassim bin jointly by Qatar Civil Aviation Authority and Qatar Airways, the drill was carried out to ensure that the $15.5bn said that the new brand name is Abdulaziz Al Thani said that the facility is ready for an April launch. Many people from Qatar’s travel and tourism trade participated in the trial more than a just logo or slogan. change in brand name will push “It represents a lifestyle and the company forward. run to continue till March 14, 2013. (IBRAHIM RO) innovation, and our mission to THE PENINSULA

THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 03

Heir Apparent receives Venezuelan ambassador

The Deputy Emir and Heir Apparent H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani received yesterday the outgoing Venezuelan Ambassador Juan Antonio Hernandez. The Deputy Emir awarded him the Sash of Merit in appre- ciation of his efforts in promoting bilateral relations. Silatech-Glowork deal to boost job chances for Saudi women DOHA: Silatech has signed an newly-developed Tamheed HR extra barriers of their own. agreement with Saudi-based programme into its current Through this initiative with Glowork to create additional screening and job placement ini- Glowork, Silatech is support- employment opportunities for tiatives. Silatech will also offer ing an innovative approach that Saudi women. Glowork is a workshops on employability and opens doors of opportunity for sustainable social enterprise entrepreneurship for Glowork young women while at the same which seeks to increase access and support Glowork’s ‘Step time respecting local culture and to employment for women and Ahead’ conference in April. The traditions.” increase diversity in the Saudi event is the first of its kind to Glowork founder and board workforce through the first focus on local college graduates member Khalid Al Khudair said: web portal devoted to female in Saudi Arabia. “We are happy to be working recruitment in the GCC, a According to Glowork, 85 per- with Silatech and to draw upon press release from Silatech said cent of Saudis that are unem- their expertise in helping youth yesterday. ployed are women, who account and young women access the job Through the agreement, to over 1.2 million. market and participate in eco- Silatech will introduce the Silatech Deputy CEO Raed nomic development, given that a Tamheed programme, a series of Al Emadi said: “For our region high majority of Saudi women are psychometric assessment tests to fully realise its economic and well-educated. This agreement to help users make objective social potential, we need to more comes at a critical time, and coin- and informed decisions on their effectively utilise skills and talents cides with the Saudi government’s future careers, to Glowork’s offer- of all of our young people. efforts to improve employment ings. Silatech will build capac- “In addition to the difficul- conditions for women and achieve ity by training Glowork staff as ties young people already face in diversity in the work force,” he certified Tamheed career advis- entering the workforce, young added. ers. Glowork will integrate the women have sometimes faced THE PENINSULA THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 04 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME Project to boost living PM meets City of London Mayor conditions of workers VCU-Q design turns shipping containers into homes

BY FAZEENA SALEEM accommodation, especially near The project aims to improve construction sites. poor living conditions of migrant DOHA: Migrant worker hous- “It’s in a phase now that organ- workers in the country. ing project, a concept originated isations can take the design,” said The basic concept of the project at Virginia Commonwealth Allyson Vanstone, Dean, VCU-Q, evolved evaluating the possibility University–Qatar’s (VCU-Q) at a press conference held yester- of converting shipping contain- biennial design conference, day to unveil details of Tasmeem ers for migrant worker housing Tasmeem Doha, is ready to 2013. through an innovative design. share architectural designs “It is a design and the soci- The architecture is economical with organisations. ety-relevant project came from and suitable for living. It could The concept is based on Tasmeem,” she added. be easily configured to respond to cost effectiveness and aims to The project is supported by specific site conditions and can be meet international standards Qatar Foundation Chairperson, modified as labour camps, accord- for migrant workers’ living H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser ing to VCU-Q. The Prime Minister and Foreign Minister H E Sheikh Hamad bin Jassem bin Jabor Al Thani met yesterday the conditions. and financed by Qatar Science A prototype is constructed in Lord Mayor of the City of London Alderman Roger Gifford and his delegation. They reviewed cooperation, The key component is an inno- and Technology Park (QSTP). Education City and followed by especially in the areas of investments. vative design and planning of The Centre for Research, Design a period of thermal performance portable modules. and Entrepreneurship at VCU-Q monitoring. The concept is more about has developed the concept. QSTP After successful completion portable buildings which could is the funding organisation for the and testing of the prototype, be built at any place depending $1.4m project while its Technology now VCUQatar says the design Tasmeem 2013 to feature exhibitions on the requirement. Innovation and Entrepreneurship is available for organisations for It also aims to address the Programme (TIEP) developed the for adoption. increasing need of suitable labour business model. THE PENINSULA and lab sessions from March 10

DOHA: Virginia “This Tasmeem has greatly involving the workshops and Commonwealth University– expanded by activities. There is laboratories will take place from Qatar’s (VCU-Q) biennial a lot available for people coming March 10 to 14 at VCU-Q and international design conference to the exhibition,” said Allyson Mathaf. The two-day conference ‘Tasmeem 2013’ is preparing for Vanstone, Dean, VCU-Q at a (dissemination) portion will take a diversified event. The confer- press conference yesterday at the place at the Hamad Bin Khalifa ence will explore the role art campus. Student Centre in Education City and design in the transforma- The conference’s theme will on March 16 and 17. tion of Doha from a small pearl explore hybridity in making, A significant partner of fishing community to today’s building and sustaining a con- Tasmeem Doha 2013 is Mathaf: achievements. temporary society, engaging with Arab Museum of Modern Art who ‘Tasmeem 2013’ will be held art, design and other interven- will be hosting the 12 designer- under the theme ‘Hybrid Making’ tions that have been conceived, lead student laboratories. Visitors at three venues — VCUQatar, designed or fabricated in Qatar. to Mathaf will be welcome to walk Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Tasmeem Doha 2013 will through the laboratories during Art and the Hamad Bin Khalifa include a series of exhibitions, the production phase or view the University Student Centre presentations by artists, design- outcomes throughout March. between March 10 and 17. ers and architects who have real- As a component of the confer- Unlike traditional conferences, ised projects in the country, and a ence, the Tasmeem Film Festival this year’s meet will be structured series of workshops and labs for will feature regional and inter- as a series of activities, collabora- students led by VCU Richmond national films, which reflect and tive workshops, lab sessions and and Qatar professors and other embody the conference themes exhibitions. artists. The primary goal of these of ‘Made in Qatar’ or ‘Hybrid- Acclaimed architect and win- working sessions is to design Making’ through the vehicle of ner of the Pritzker Architecture projects that explore and fulfil the moving image. The festival A model design of migrant worker housing project. Prize Rem Koolhaas, whose cur- civic needs in Qatar and may will showcase students’ works rent projects include the new eventually be adapted to serve produced in the conference Qatar National Library, will the community. workshops. deliver the keynote address. The five-day production phase THE PENINSULA DFI to hold creative writing workshop

DOHA: Doha Film Institute identifying powerful themes to by critically acclaimed Qatari art- (DFI) will begin the ‘Qoul Qasa critical evaluation. ist Ghanem Al Sulaiti. Creative Writing Workshop,’ to Launched by DFI’s film Mahdi Ali Ali, Manager of help nurture the skills of aspiring financing arm, the Gulf Film GFD, said: “Whether the writers writers for future screenwriting Development’s (GFD) the pro- choose to write for theatre or for and film projects, a press release gramme will serve as a forum films, it is important to be well- issued by DFI said yesterday. for participants to vocalise ideas, versed in the basic techniques The workshop will be held from develop core writing techniques of writing. By focusing on the March 11 to 15, from 6.30pm to and the tools needed for cinematic intricacies of developing power- 9.30pm, and is open to local entry writing, while promoting creative ful scripts, the workshop will also level talents. The workshop will thinking among the aspiring writ- help participants to think crea- cover all aspects of writing from ers. Participants will be mentored tively and define their individual- ity through their works.” Al Sulaiti said: “This workshop is considered to be a huge opportunity to Allyson Vanstone, Virginia Commonwealth University-Qatar (VCU-Q) Dean; Dr Johan Granberg, Tasmeem Doha 2013 reach out for young talents Co-Chair; Dr Thomas Modeen, Assistant Professor of Interior Design at VCU-Q; Jorell Legaspi Assistant Professor interested in art and spe- of Design Studies at VCU-Q; Dr Byrad Yyelland, Creative Head of Communications, Mathaf; Rhys Himsworth, cifically dramatic writing Director of Liberal Arts & Sciences at VCU-Q and Chair of the Tasmeem Doha 2013 Workshop Committee; Peter through which they will be Martin, Director of Painting & Printmaking at VCU-Q and Chairman of the Exhibitions Committee for Tasmeem familiar with the basis of Doha 2013; Jesse Ulmer, Assistant Professor of Graphic Design at VCU-Q and Chair of Tasmeem Exploration creative writing.” Platform Committee for Tasmeem Doha 2013, and Assistant Professor of English at VCU-Q at a press conference THE PENINSULA at VCU-Q yesterday. (SALIM MATRAMKOT) Qatar, Pakistan sign MoU on air transport

DOHA: Qatar and Pakistan signed here yesterday a memoran- dum of understanding (MoU) on air transport according to which rights of air transport and number of flights are to be increased between the two countries. Abdul Aziz Mohamed Al Noaimi, Chairman of Qatar Civil Aviation Authority, and Raja Mohamed Arif Nadheer, the First Secretary at the Pakistani Defence Ministry signed the MoU. It allows Qatar Airways to increase the number of its destinations in Pakistan. It was also agreed to update some of the terms of the air trans- port agreement between the two countries signed in 1972. QNA THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 05 Racer’s death was accident: Probe panel All global norms were followed: QMSF BY ARMSTRONG VAS Sheikh Hassan said that the risk factor in powerboat racing DOHA: A fact-finding com- was high and fatal accidents had FROM LEFT: Dr Dawood Al Bast, Qatar Red Crescent; Adel Al Baker, Qatar Red Crescent; Sheikh Hassan bin Jabor Al Thani, QMSF President; Sami mittee of Qatar Marine Sports happened in the past in interna- Abdullah Abu Shaikha, QMSF General Secretary, and Engineer Khalid bin Arhama Al Kuwari, QMSF board member, at the press conference at Marriott Federation (QMSF) has con- tional events. Hotel Doha, yesterday. (KAMMUTTY VP) cluded that the ‘unfortunate “I cannot say that these things incident’ in which Qatari pow- won’t happen again as this is a pleasure boat race on February 16. the formation of the fact-finding someone’s life and we cannot say, part in the race and were present erboat racer Rashid Abdullah risky sport. We have had several His co-driver Hamad Jassim Al committee on February 20. ‘you cannot take him on his boat at the press conference, raised a Al Mansouri died was purely a races here in the past. The course Mutawa suffered injuries. QMSF officials admitted that (Kuwait driver’s boat), shift him few issues over safety and medi- ‘race accident’. at Katara Beach was a bit narrow Although rescue personnel the deceased driver was taken to to the Qatar Red Crescent boat’,” cal facilities at the venue on the QMSF officials denied claims last year and we had opened it up. were at hand, all their efforts to the shore on the boat of Kuwaiti said Al Kuwari. fateful day. Al Harmi walked away there were shortcomings at the “As a result, all the boats were revive the powerboat competitor, competitor Mustafa Abdul Wahab QMSF denied the allegations in a huff, not satisfied with the race venue at the Katara Cultural spread out and there was no who had been racing since 2004, Dashti, which perfectly fits into made by a couple of race com- replies from QMSF and Qatar Village Beach, saying that all chance of touching one another. proved futile. Al Mansouri was the rule book of UIM. “According petitors that there were no Coast Red Crescent officials. guidelines framed by interna- So we had taken care of the taken to the Emergency Unit of to UIM rules, it is allowed (the Guard and Red Crescent officials The QMSF official admitted tional governing body for power- safety,” added Sheikh Hassan. the Hamad Medical Corporation rescue operation by the Kuwaiti present in the sea during the race. that copter services were not used boat racing, Union International The QMSF showed video clips (HMC), where he was pronounced driver), said Al Kuwari. “There were three boats of during the race. “We have been Montonautique (UIM), were of the race and a timeline of dead. “The UIM rules state that when Coast Guard with three peo- racing since 1999 and we have followed. happenings on the fateful day to “We tried to revive him but a race accident happens, the race ple on each, close to the boat never used a helicopter during Addressing a press conference journalists. we could not feel his pulse,” said must be stopped immediately and which flipped. Two boats took the local races. Many accidents here yesterday in the presence The footage, repeatedly played Dr Dawood Albast of Qatar Red the competitor who is close to the part in search and rescue opera- have taken place in the past dur- of Qatar Red Crescent officials, on the request of journalists, Crescent. Another Qatar Red accident must help in the rescue tions, when it took place and six ing QMSF events, but this is the QMSF President Sheikh Hassan showed the ill-fated boat going Crescent official, Adel Al Baker, operations in whatever way he Red Crescent personnel were first time a tragedy has hap- bin Jabor Al Thani said: “As per down to the surface with a big was also present at the press can. So in the Al Mansouri case, on the boat belonging to the pened. Tragedies have happened the findings of the committee, it splash of water and two Coast conference. Mustafa Abdul Wahab Dashti was Kuwaiti driver, which brought in the past in powerboat races in was a race accident and the Qatar Guard vehicles moving in to launch Following a public outcry the one on whose boat Al Mansouri Al Mansouri to the shore,” Al international events,” added Al Red Crescent and Coast Guard search and rescue operations. on radio talk shows and social was brought to the shore. Besides Kuwari added. Kuwari. QMSF General Secretary had followed all medical and safety Al Mansouri died when his boat media over the lack of medical Dashti, there were six Qatar Red Two competitors, Yusuy Al Sami Abdullah Abu Sheikha was regulations, which were necessary flipped while taking a turn at the and safety regulations during the Crescent personnel on the boat. Harmi of Qatar and Mansoour also present at the conference. as per the needs of the hour.” buoy during the third round of the race, Sheikh Hassan announced “It was a question of saving Al Fadala of Bahrain, who took THE PENINSULA Cabinet approves draft law on trading companies

DOHA: The Prime Minister on principles of civil defence. It and renewal of safety certificate, The Cabinet endorsed an agree- holders of diplomatic and pri- The Cabinet reviewed a memo and Foreign Minister H E endorsed another draft law pre- safe balance of ships, fire preven- ment between Qatar and Ethiopia vate passports, economic, trade by the Ministry of Economy and Sheikh Hamad bin Jassem sented by the Minister on Civil tion, rescue apparatus, telecom- on regulating Ethiopian workers and technical cooperation and Finance on requests of Qatar bin Jabor Al Thani chaired Defence equipment, tools and munications, maritime safety and in Qatar. encouragement and protection of International Court and Dispute the weekly Cabinet meeting materials. prevention of pollution. Agreements on mutual exemp- investments between Qatar and Resolution Centre for some judges. yesterday. It includes provisions for the The Cabinet approved a tion of requirements for the Moldova were also endorsed. QNA Following the session, the establishment of a Higher Council draft law amending some pro- Deputy Prime Minister and for Civil Defence, which will be visions of the Decision No. 4 of Minister of State for Cabinet in charge of declaring a state of 2010 concerning the setting up Affairs H E Ahmad bin Abdullah emergency, determining terms of of the Qatar Financial Centre Al Mahmoud said that it approved reference of the general admin- headquarters. a draft law on trading companies. istration of Civil Defence, emer- A proposal by the Social Affairs It contains provisions for gency provisions, measures and Ministry on the demolition and their forms, transition, integra- procedures to protect people and rebuilding of homes of several tion, division, expiry and control public and private properties and elderly citizens in the northern over companies, especially those authority to lock out establish- areas was also approved. It aims related to general stock firms as ments, which abstain from taking to provide social welfare to the far as their establishment, sub- security and safety measures. elderly and help them rebuild scription of their shares, their It aims to keep pace with the their homes. board of directors, setting the construction boom and expansion The meeting reviewed a draft bonus for the board members, in all areas of life by developing bylaw on training and qualifica- their general assembly, functions security and safety rules to cope tion in vocational or job qualifica- and the capital are concerned. with Qatar’s progress. tion centres. It defines people to The Cabinet also approved The Cabinet reviewed a draft be trained, the training duration a Civil Defence draft law and law on a safety bylaw for small and the bonus set for the train- a draft law presented by the payload ships not included in ees. The vocational training cen- Minister of Interior on meas- international maritime treaties of tre aims to contribute to realising ures and procedures for issuing the GCC. It contains measures for overall development by rehabili- a licence for establishing a cen- applying the bylaw on such ships tating citizens functionally as per tre for education and training and how to inspect them, issuance the needs of the labour market. Second issue of Al Seha ready for distribution DOHA: The second issue of Hamad Medical Corporation’s (HMC) patient magazine Al Seha will be distributed throughout the hospitals this week. Looking to build on the huge response to the first issue, the latest edition contains articles on cardio- vascular diseases and organ donation. It also has the usual news roundups from HMC, Qatar and abroad. The issue also covers the subject of health cards, while safety features strongly as Al Seha interviews Dr Rafael Consunji, HMC’s new Injury Prevention Director, about his efforts to make Qatar a safer place to live in. Copies of Al Seha are available at all of HMC’s eight hospitals or can be read online at www.hamad. qa. THE PENINSULA THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 06 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME

Emir addresses UNAOC Forum

The Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani addressing the 5th Forum of the UNAOC in Vienna, yesterday. RIGHT: The Emir and H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser listen to a debate at the conference. Estes urges Muslims to study Quran well 5,000 listen to renowned scholar at Katara Amphitheatre

BY MOHAMMAD SHOEB citing his own story about how for the Islamic faith). he reacted first when his father He said: “Look at my instance; DOHA: Braving the cold wind, asked him to do business with I wanted to convert Mohammed, over 5,000 people, including an Arab Muslim before his my Egyptian business partner, Muslims, Christians, Hindus conversion. into Christianity, but his strong and followers of other faiths Estes emphasised that Muslims character influenced me and it listened to Sheikh Yusuf Estes’ should “read Quran” and build happened the other way round. lecture on ‘My Journey to the ideal “character” that can influ- So we as Muslims must try our light” for two hours at Katara ence the people of other faiths. best to find out what Allah wants Amphitheatre yesterday. “It is impossible to convert peo- from us; try to do it.” Sheikh Yusuf, a noted American ple to Islam unless the Almighty Highlighting the significance of Muslim and preacher who con- God wishes so. It is only the char- the word ‘Islam’ he said that he verted from Christianity to Islam acter of an individual Muslim that never likes to give a speech when in 1991, regularly appears on can have an influence on others… he forgets to define the word. various Islamic channels, includ- and those who say and believe He noted: “Islam is very much ing Peace TV and his own Guide that Islam was spread on the misunderstood these days. This TV. The lecture was broadcast power of sword are not aware of is the only word in Quran that Sheikh Yusuf Estes speaking at the Katara Amphitheatre. live from Doha on many satellite the truth,” he said. they don’t translate into English. television channels including the Estes became a Muslim after These five letters have a very ‘sincere’ to the Almighty God, and was in the music, entertainment and directed live entertainment US-based Guide TV. meeting an Egyptian named comprehensive meaning which is be in peace with whatever God and marketing fields. He also programmes in the US from the During his lecture he mainly Mohammed. Following his con- too hard to translate.” gives you. taught music and served as a mid-1960s until his last endeavour focused on his journey from version, he learnt Arabic language He said that anybody who Estes was born in Ohio, and music minister. He owned sev- for cable TV in Florida, entitled Christianity to Islam. However, and did Quranic studies in Egypt, wants to establish a relationship was raised in Houston, Texas, in eral musical instrument compa- ‘Estes Music Jamboree’. he also highlighted the preju- Morocco and Turkey and entered with God, he just have to ‘sur- an Anglo-Saxon Protestant fam- nies including the Estes Piano and THE PENINSULA dices about Islam and Muslims the field of Dawah (proselytising render’, ‘submit’, ‘obey’ and be ily. From 1962 to 1990, his career Organ Company. He produced

Messi to score a goal with Ooredoo by serving youngsters Restaurant chain corrects BARCELONA: Football star with Ooredoo as we share the both large and small, to help passion that unites youth in all support social change across the Lionel Messi finds a great oppor- same idea. When I visit sick children in at-risk situations our countries and that the great- Middle East and North Africa in sauce label tunity to serve needy youth by children in hospitals, I realise related to healthcare and edu- est athletes can play an incredible recent years, including Mhealth working together with Ooredoo, the positive impact that pub- cation development. As part of role in inspiring and enriching services to help people with formerly known as Qtel Group. lic figures can have,” said Messi the partnership, the foundation young people to make the most diabetes, financial services for after raid The group recently announced during a press conference held in will develop and sponsor projects of their life chances.” people without access to bank Barcelona FC star Messi and Barcelona, yesterday. to stimulate human growth and “All of our markets have a large accounts in Qatar, and Mlearning DOHA: An international res- Qatar’s national sport hero Nasser “It’s exciting to partner with development across Ooredoo’s youth population, and Leo Messi services to support young peo- taurant chain has corrected Al Attiyah as the company’s new a global group like Ooredoo, who markets. is a hero to young people from ple’s economic empowerment. specifications on the labels of brand ambassadors. can help extend our foundation’s The youth sometimes have to Jakarta through to Doha. Our In Indonesia, Ooredoo is sup- the sauce they offer to custom- In this role, Messi will be sup- work into new markets, to sup- fight hard to reach their dreams, new brand ambassador shares porting Indosat’s Mobile Clinic ers in 29 countries after food porting Ooredoo in various pro- port communities that need help Ooredoo and the Leo Messi our belief in human growth and Programme. Since the launch of inspectors here have found out grammes for young people in and support young people to have Foundation will work to support our conviction that all young peo- the programme in 2007, almost a violation. the Middle East, North Africa the best chance to make their them achieve their full potential. ple should be given the best life 600,000 people mainly living in The food inspection team of (Mena) and South-East Asia to dreams come true,” he added. Dr Nasser Marafih, Group chances, and we’re proud to be remote areas have benefited from Al Rayyan Municipality recently help them fulfil their hopes and The Leo Messi Foundation, CEO, Ooredoo, said: “We chose to working with him,” he added. free health services provided by discovered the violation of the dreams. which he founded in 2007, has a work with Lionel Messi because Ooredoo has launched a range 16 mobile clinics. famous restaurant during a regu- “I’m very happy to be working track record of funding initiatives, we believe that football is a shared of complementary initiatives that THE PENINSULA lar inspection they conducted at restaurants in the area. Magdi Borhan Zaidan, head of inspection unit at the health monitoring section of Al Rayyan Municipality and Yahya Khalil, Sidra forum Rights violations in Syria a food specialist, found the res- taurant was refilling the origi- disgrace to humanity: Emir nal container of a spicy sauce discusses and putting a label which stated Continued from page 1 the sauce was valid for only one “The world is replete with political and ideological month. preterm labour divisions that require continuous efforts from the The original sauce must be international community to eliminate the causes of kept in freezer immediately after DOHA: Every year an estimated 15 disputes and the risks of conflict and to work hard opening but they were just placed million babies are born prematurely, and diligently to spread the values of the culture of on the tables. with one million of those unlikely to understanding and coexistence, wherein dialogue, In addition, the specifications of survive. The latest developments in alliance of civilisations and development of sound ingredients and the expiry date on the identification, prevention and relations between nations and people thrive.” the container sold to customers treatment of preterm labour were dis- The acts of violence and gross violation of human were different from the original cussed at the third session of the Sidra rights occurring in Syria and Palestine constituted a ones. Symposia Series, held yesterday with disgrace to humanity and the international commu- During investigation, the local and international experts taking nity should bear its responsibilities by standing up director of the restaurant con- part in a panel discussion. Speakers at a panel discussion hosted by Sidra Medical and Research Centre at the to address these violations and back the Syrian and firmed that their restaurants all Hosted by Sidra Medical and Research Four Seasons Hotel yesterday. Palestinian peoples to attain their legitimate rights. over the world were doing the Center, the discussion included presen- “Still there are major powers in the world that same thing. tations from Dr Michael Katz, Senior The experts took guests through topics this topic with the medical community, adopt an unfair attitude preventing the resolution After the Qatari authorities Advisor of Transdisciplinary Research, including preterm birth from the global as well as the public.” of the last colonial issue in history, the Palestinian contacted the headquarters of the March of Dimes Birth Defects perspective; prevention and treatment of Dr Michael Katz, speaking about cause, which is exacerbating and constituting a con- the company, they conducted Foundation, White Plains, New York; preterm labour; and the preterm new- preterm birth from the global per- stant source of tension in our region, and it also their own investigation of the Dr Hilal Al Rifai, Medical Director of born – management and results in Qatar, spective, pointed out during the event constitutes a source for people to believe that rac- issue and confirmed the viola- Women’s Hospital, Director of Neonatal before opening the floor to the audience that “the ultimate preventive meas- ism is still prevalent in the international commu- tion, after which they changed Intensive Care Unit, and Director for a question and answer session. ures require our understanding of the nity, and to make them sceptical about the fairness the specification to mention the of Newborn Screening Programmes, Dr Dudenhausen said: “Many preterm biological basis of this abnormality. in implementing the international law. Recently we way it was supposed to be stored. Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC); labors are avoidable through prevention However, there are some measures that also have witnessed a supportive attitude by central The company also started to and Dr Joachim Dudenhausen, Medical and care. As a hospital that will special- can be applied even now, to reduce the countries of the genocide committed by a regime introduce small containers of Advisor and Head of Medical Staff ize in supporting women with high-risk incidence of preterm labour and the that lacks legitimacy in Syria, while other countries the sauce valid for 24 hours upon Services at Sidra Medical and Research pregnancies, Sidra aims to facilitate and resulting prematurity.” only condemning that verbally,” said the Emir. opening. Center, who also moderated the session. contribute to the flow of information on THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 MIDDLE EAST www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 07 Kin of Austrian hostage in Yemen plead for release Parents post video clip on Internet

VIENNA: The parents of an the kidnappers’ demands. Tearing Austrian student kidnapped up and covering her hair with a along with a Finnish couple in shawl, Neubauer’s mother said Yemen late last year on Tuesday her son “respects and honours posted a video on the Internet, the culture of your country” and pleading for the captors to studies Arabic. “He is a good son release their son unharmed. who places high value on his fam- In the emotional four-and- ily,” she said. a-half minute clip published on Neubauer was abducted in the Youtube, Dominik Neubauer’s capital Sanaa on December 21 father asked the kidnappers to along with a Finnish couple as show sympathy. they prepared to travel to the “In the name of the closest southern port of Aden via Yemen’s family of Dominik I appeal with second city Taez. all my heart for a quick and safe In early January, Yemeni secu- release of my son,” he said, adding rity officials said the Europeans “please have generosity”. were being held by Al Qaeda- The video comes six days after linked tribesmen in the eastern Neubauer appeared in a clip on Marib province. Yemeni forces Youtube with a gun to his head late last month suspended an saying his captors would kill him offensive aimed at freeing the Syrian refugee girls attend class at the Bab Al Salam refugee camp in Azaz, near the Syrian-Turkish border, yesterday. in a week unless Austria, Yemen three Western hostages that cost and the European Union met more than 65 lives. Tribal medi- their ransom demands. ators were allowed to attempt a Damascus to The video was posted on negotiation with the kidnappers. Kerry hints at greater US Youtube on February 21. “My Most kidnappings of foreign- renew passports name is Dominik Neubauer. I’m an ers are carried out by members Austrian citizen. I’ve been taken of the country’s powerful tribes DAMASCUS: The Syrian hostage on the 21st of December who use them as bargaining regime has decided to renew the 2012 by a Yemeni tribe,” the hos- chips in disputes with the central support for Syria oppn passports of any of nationals in tage says in the video, a gun held government. embassies abroad, in an appar- to his head. Hundreds of people have been PARIS: US Secretary of State institutions of the state”. his regime to open talks to end ent concession to the opposition. “I appeal to the Yemeni gov- abducted in Yemen over the past John Kerry hinted at greater The Washington Post reported the conflict, with Lavrov also The interior ministry said in ernment, to the Austrian govern- 15 years. Almost all have been US support for Syria’s opposi- on Wednesday that the White urging the opposition to “declare a circular that it has authorised ment and to all the governments freed unharmed. Al Qaeda mili- tion yesterday, saying it needs House was considering a policy itself in favour of dialogue”. “the renewal for two to four years concerned and to the European tants, active in the south and “more help” in the struggle shift to supply rebels with “non- Washington has recently toned of passports and travel docu- Union to give them what they east of Yemen, rarely carry out against Bashar Al Assad and lethal” aid, including armoured down its criticism of Moscow’s ments belonging to Syrian citi- want. Otherwise, they will kill kidnappings, but a Saudi diplo- that Washington wants to vehicles and perhaps even mili- perceived intransigence despite zens abroad”. me seven days after this video is mat, Abdullah Al Khalidi, has speed up a political transition. tary training. CNN ran a similar Russia having vetoed UN Security “Passports will now be renewed published,” he says. remained in the hands of the In Paris on the eve of a meet- story on its website. Council resolutions which threat- regardless of the reasons that had Austrian authorities have con- jihadist network since his abduc- ing in Rome of the Friends of Kerry’s remarks also came ened sanctions against Damascus. earlier prevented their renewal, firmed the authenticity of that tion in Aden on March 28. Syria group, Kerry said boosting ahead of a weekend opposition “We’ve been absolutely clear and without obtaining the nec- video but have refused to disclose AGENCIES support for the opposition would gathering in Istanbul to elect a that there needs to be a political essary authorisations,” said the be a key part of the talks today prime minister and government transition, and we felt that Russia circular. The decision was pub- bringing together foreign powers to run “liberated” parts of Syria. could play a key role in convinc- lished on Saturday and authorised and the main opposition National Turkish Prime Minister Recep ing the regime... that there needs by Interior Minister Mohammad Yemen anniversary Coalition. Tayyip Erdogan yesterday called to be that political transition,” a Al Shaar. “We are examining and devel- for more support from the inter- State Department official said. Last month, opposition chief oping ways to accelerate the polit- national community for Syria’s The umbrella opposition Ahmed Moaz Al Khatib had ical transition that the Syrian opposition, saying the lack of a National Coalition cancelled a called for the renewal of passports people seek and deserve, and that clear leader among the opposition planned boycott of the 11-nation as one of two main conditions for is what we will be discussing in was no reason to back Assad’s meeting in Rome after the US talks with regime officials, along Rome,” Kerry said at a joint press “cruel” regime. and Britain “promised specific with the release of 160,000 prison- conference with French counter- “The struggle of the opposition aid to alleviate the suffering of ers. Some 10 million Syrians live part Laurent Fabius. is important and should be appre- our people”. abroad, many of them opponents He said he wanted to hear from ciated. Their effort is the way to On Saturday in Istanbul, the of the Assad regime. the opposition about how best to prepare the ground for a demo- Coalition is to appoint the head Hundreds of thousands of end the violence in Syria, where cratic process to take hold for the of an interim cabinet in a secret Syrians have fled the country, the United Nations says at least Syrian people,” Erdogan said at a ballot. Among those tipped to fill many through illegal border 70,000 have died and hundreds of United Nations event in Vienna. the post are Burhan Ghalioun, the crossings. Others were exiled thousands have been uprooted in But combatants in Syria former head of opposition faction before the uprising because of the two-year conflict. seemed deaf to the diplomacy, the Syrian National Council and their opposition to President “That may require us to change with fighting and bombardment ex-prime minister Riad Hijab Bashar Al Assad and his father president Assad’s current calcula- reported near Damascus as the who defected in mid-2012. Hafez, including many leaders of tion. He needs to know he can’t regime renewed its campaign to On the ground, fierce battles the opposition National Coalition shoot his way out of this,” Kerry suppress the insurgency. rocked towns near Damascus as headed by Khatib. said. “I think the opposition needs Kerry had on Tuesday met the regime renewed its campaign In January, following a dia- more help in order to be able to do Russian Foreign Minister Sergei to crush the insurgency around logue plan proposed by Assad, the that and we are working together Lavrov for talks in Berlin and the capital, a watchdog said. regime issued a circular aimed to have a united position.” while initially at odds over the Tanks pounded the rebel- at “facilitating the return to the Supporters of former Yemeni president Ali Abdullah Saleh climb up flag Kerry said there was a desire to two-year-old conflict, Washington held town of Daraya, southwest country of Syrian nationals”. It poles flying their national flag during celebrations on the occasion of the help the opposition deliver assist- and Moscow have sought to find of Damascus, while new clashes also called on foreign-based oppo- first anniversary of the handover of power in Sana’a, yesterday. Saleh ance and basic services in areas it common ground. broke out in Irbin to the north- nents to return, regardless of stepped down after 33-years at the helm in February 2011 and formally has “liberated from the regime” Russia, the most powerful sup- east, said the Syrian Observatory whether their travel documents and also to “protect the legitimate porter of Assad, this week urged for Human Rights. AFP were up to date. AFP handed power to his then deputy, Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi. Ennahda party to give up key ministries

TUNIS: Tunisia’s ruling Islamists said Ghannouchi has said the new cabinet the drafting of a constitution, with parlia- yesterday that they have agreed to give up would be made up of “five or six parties,” and ment divided over the nature of Tunisia’s key ministries to independents, a conces- suggested the Wafa movement, the Freedom future political system 16 months after it sion that could speed up the formation of a and Dignity bloc and the Democratic was elected. Since the revolution, Tunisia new government and end a political crisis. Alliance as potential partners. has also been rocked by violence blamed on “We confirm the ‘neutralistion’ of the four But Ettakatol spokesman Mohamed radical Salafists, and ongoing social unrest sovereign ministries,” Ennahda party leader Bennour said his latest concession did over the government’s failure to improve Rached Ghannouchi said on Radio Kalima, not mean a positive compromise had been poor living conditions. referring to the interior, justice, foreign and reached. “There is an agreement that depart- defence portfolios. ments are entrusted to independents, but not SALAFISTS FAIL TO STOP It appeared to be a significant backdown the names of the ministers,” he said, adding ‘HARLEM SHAKE’ from the powerful politician who had previ- talks on the matter were unlikely to be com- Meanwhile, Salafist Muslims tried to pre- ously declared that Ennahda would “never pleted before “the middle of next week”. vent the filming of current Internet craze give up power” which it secured through “There also remains the question of other the “Harlem Shake” at a school, but were “the legitimacy of the ballot”. departments,” said Bennour, whose party driven off after coming to blows with stu- Ennahda has controlled the interior, jus- is calling on Ennahda to reverse a series of dents, witnesses said. tice and foreign ministries since Tunisia disputed appointments in public institutions At another school, south of the capi- held its first free elections in October 2011, and regions of Tunisia. tal, the principal called in police to stop nine months after strongman Zine El Interior Minister Ali Larayedh was filming there, the interior ministry said. Abidine Ben Ali was ousted in an uprising charged last week with forming a new gov- Students reacted by hurling stones at the that sparked the Arab Spring. ernment following the resignation of prime police, who responded with tear gas. When The defence portfolio is already in the minister Hamadi Jebali, after his plan for a a dozen or so ultra-conservative Muslims, hands of an independent, Abdelkarim Zbidi, non-partisan government failed. some of them women in veils, showed up at who has held the post since the revolution. Jebali announced the plan on February 6, the Bourguiba Language Institute in the El Ghannouchi said a new government could the day that a lone gunman shot dead leftist Khadra neighbourhood of Tunis, a Salafist now be formed “at the end of the week”. opposition leader Chokri Belaid outside his bastion, students shouted “Get out, get out!” “We see that it is in the interests of the home in the capital Tunis. One of the Salafists, shouted “Our broth- Tunisian government, in the transitional The assassination of the fierce Ennahda ers in Palestine are being killed by Israelis, period and for the period to come, to bring critic triggered violence that deepened a and you are dancing,” while saying he together Islamists and secularists... even crisis already building for months due to ris- wanted to make the students understand though we are the majority,” he said. ing tensions between Islamists and liberals. the difference in Islam between behaviour Ennahda was responding to a demand Larayedh, also an Ennahda member, that is “haram” (prohibited) and “halal” by almost all of the opposition and the gov- has until March 8 to form a new govern- (permitted). The Salafists eventually with- ernment’s two secular, centre-left partners, ment, which he has vowed will be “for all drew, and the students were able to film Ettakatol and the Congress for the Republic Tunisians”. The struggle to form a new their production. of President Moncef Marzouki. government comes amid deadlock over AFP THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 08 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

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Dangers of austerity Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate

N ANNUAL economic forecast released by the European Commission on Friday says that Spain, Greece and Portugal, already entangled in a deep How Beppe Grillo’s social media Acrisis, are going to see things grow worse this year. The biggest problem is going to be unemployment. Joblessness in both Spain and Greece, where a quarter of the populations are currently unemployed and the share of jobless young people politics took Italy by storm exceeds 50 percent, are expected to rise to 27 percent. Economists say that the current crisis is comparable to BY JAMIE BARTLETT the economic crisis in the 1930s. Back then, leaders reacted on the economy. In a shrewd move that by cutting spending to bring budgets into balance. The result? demonstrated his apparent lack of self- The austerity policies proved a complete disaster. By cutting HE mainstream parties are interest, he ruled himself out of stand- government spending while business and consumer spending finished! They won’t survive ing for election, by banning those with Social media politics Tfor long”, announced Beppe a criminal record – he describes himself were falling, those governments restricted economic activity. Grillo, in typical style, on his Five Star merely as the spokesman or “guaran- as pioneered by Grillo As a result, unemployment continued to soar and disillusioned Movement’s online television channel tor” of the movement. Movimento’s new – citizen-led, brazen, people in some countries like Germany turned to extremism. late on Monday night. For a long time parliamentarians are a remarkable mix Instead of learning the necessary lessons from the past, our political scientists have predicted that of teachers, housewives, unemployed, open, democratic – is current leaders are repeating the same mistakes by putting the internet would lead to the decline young, old and much else. Ordinary of formal political parties – and Beppe people like us. what happens when their trust in spending cuts. They are refusing to draw lessons Grillo is showing how. His skill has been to channel Italians’ politicians appear from others’ experiences too, like for example, that of Franklin Nine months ago, the comedian-blog- general frustrated apathy into a power- Roosevelt, whose public investments in jobs and defence turned ger was polling at 5 percent nationally. ful political movement, spurning main- too distant, too elite, the US economy around. Also, many economists all over the Yesterday he took over 25 percent of the stream media to talk to them directly too different from the world have been shouting that the solution to depression vote: a rise practically unprecedented in through Twitter and Facebook. Grillo is boosting demand, not killing modern European politics. It has taken has, by an enormous margin, the larg- people they represent. a lot of people by surprise, including est social media following of any politi- demand. the pollsters. What accounts for this cian in Europe: he has more than one Austerity hasn’t Austerity measures, if not meteoric rise? million Facebook friends, and a similar companies have some work to do. This worked as a corrected, will have deep disastrous Two weeks ago, number of Twitter followers – Bersani election was a litmus test on whether political consequences. As in the Demos released a has about a quarter of that (as does social media campaigning and support solution to report based on a David Cameron). His blog is the most can translate into actual votes. The past, despair about the economic Grillo’s Five economic crisis. pain is driving people to bizarre survey of almost widely read in Italy. result is a resounding yes. The melange Star Movement 2,000 Facebook Crucially, he uses this to make things of virtual and real-world political activ- But our leaders extremes. Many Italian voters voted fans of Grillo and happen offline, encouraging his virtual ity is the way millions of people relate this week for the anti-austerity won 25 percent his Movimento supporters to meet and discuss the to politics in the 21st century. Formal are continuing to party of a professional comedian. In 5 Stelle [M5S] issues he raises on his blog in real world membership of political parties is plum- repeat the same Spain, a movement for Catalonian of the votes in movement. The “meet-up groups” – and there are hun- meting, while social media following – separatism is gathering speed. In answer is a fas- dreds of them. Feeling part of some- Facebook groups or Twitter followers mistake. Italy’s election cinating and thing, his supporters are motivated: – is growing fast. Grillo has shown how Greece, a racist, fascist party has powerful mix of while 51 percent of Italians said they to use them. won several seats in the parliament through mixing anti-establish- would “never” participate in a boycott, Other parties will try to replicate his and was even expected to capture power, to the horror of many new technology ment rhetoric, only 9 percent of Beppe Grillo’s sup- success. In some ways, they will struggle. European leaders. Britain too is suffering from the negative new technology porters say the same. I can’t see Ed Miliband holding a “fuck consequences of austerity. Since Prime Minister David Cameron with old-style and old-fashioned According to my estimates, he has off” day aimed at the establishment, or came to power in 2010, Britons have been punished with rallies and local around a quarter of a million supporters Nick Clegg calling David Cameron a activism. action. Head on who consider themselves members of the “psycho dwarf” any time soon. But the austerity to bring its budget into balance. What happened was the internet, and movement: an army of volunteers and appetite for anti-establishment parties that the economy worsened. Last week, Moody’s stripped the feet on the ground, as Grillo himself door-knockers that would previously is growing. country of its AAA credit rating. The rate cut should serve as puts it. have taken years to recruit. The medium Grillo’s message has resonated in a a lesson against austerity. But changing policies would require His message is a simple one – that and the message fit hand in glove: the country where faith in government, par- a fundamental change in thinking. European leaders and pro- Italian politics is corrupt, elitist, and media is a racket, so circumvent it. liament and the media is low and fall- government economists must revisit their policies, look at the closed – and it is striking a chord. Politics is closed – especially the party ing. According to recent surveys, the His supporters come from across the list system – so elect members online. UK public feels much the same: while results and take a decision to prevent more disasters. Leaders spectrum; they are neither clearly left That is why his election rallies have 88 percent of Italians don’t trust politi- like German Chancellor Angela Merkel have been especially nor right. They are all, however, angry been by far the most well attended of cal parties, 80 percent of Brits feel the adamant, and have been castigated for their obstinacy. about the state of democracy in Italy all the candidates, and why the pollsters same way. Social media politics as pio- Curbing austerity would require release of more funds to and Europe. Our survey showed only didn’t see him coming: his voters turned neered by Grillo – citizen-led, brazen, boost or sustain demand. For crisis-hit countries, that means 2 percent trust parliament and only 11 out more consistently than anyone else. open, democratic – is what happens percent trust the press. The same thing happened in Germany when politicians appear too distant, too donors have to release more funds. For that to happen, the Grillo appears to be an authentic, with the Pirate party in the recent Berlin elite, too different from the people they world needs to exert more pressure, and the media must speak straight-talking alternative, even if he election, where pollsters dramatically represent. The established parties need more vociferously against the perils of austerity. • is policy-lite in certain areas, including underestimated their support. Polling to take note. The other side Quote of Green GDP needed the day HE recent smog that shrouded Such assessments are important and statistics departments released a It is generally believed that it is not large parts of China has since GDP does not take into account report claiming that economic losses technical limits but local governments shown it is imperative that the any environmental costs incurred dur- caused by environmental degradation that have prevented such data from Tcountry thoroughly assess the ing economic expansion and so cre- accounted for nearly 5 percent of the being released. Such data releases When Israel has environmental impact of economic ates a false impression of economic national GDP in 2004. It is regretta- might affect the promotion prospects activities: A system to measure “green prosperity. ble that the government has stopped of local officials. shown a pattern and GDP” is needed. New green GDP assessment meth- releasing such data since then. It is clear that if China wants to practice of prisoner A pilot system to evaluate the gross ods can help the government and pub- Indeed, it is technically very difficult press on with the uphill task, it must domestic product of the ecosystem lic better grasp the real environmental to calculate the real economic value first reshuffle its performance assess- abuse, the need for in a northern desert, launched on impact of the country’s economic of environmental changes, and the ment methods for government officials. outside, credible Monday, is the latest attempt to meas- activities, and enable the devising of various green GDP calculation sys- Currently, economic development ure the value of an ecosystem. policies that better balance economic tems in use are all disputable. But it measured by GDP remains a crucial investigation (into a Similarly, some research teams growth, and environmental conserva- is an essential task not only for China gauge of local officials’ performance have developed accounting systems tion and quality of life. but all countries and organizations, and capabilities, which is why they Palestinian prisoner’s to assess the country’s net GDP out- The government has developed its although it will take time for a mature care more for economic expansion death) is more urgent Richard Falk put minus the environmental losses own methodology to calculate green and internationally accepted system to rather than environmental protection. UN Special Rapporteur for caused by economic activities. GDP. In 2006, environmental protection be worked out. CHINA DAILY than ever. Human Rights THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 QATAR PERSPECTIVE www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 09 NAIMA AL MUTAWAH Dangers facing Gulf states

NYONE who has been citizens partners who have rights reading newspapers in and duties. Governments have the GCC states and DR MOHAMED MESFER duties toward their citizens, and Awatching foreign televi- should know that nationals have sion channels would feel fearful Bahrain is also engaged in con- centuries. The concept of consti- rights that must be respected, for the Arabian Gulf region. flict, which is claiming the lives of tutional monarchy is yet to take otherwise we will all be losers. Kuwait is in political, constitu- ordinary citizens and policemen. root in Bahrain, and the Bahraini Saudi Arabia is concerned by tional and social crises driven by The unrest has resulted in blocked environment is like an island in what is going on in neighbour- local forces that include patriotic roads and an attempt to blow up the middle of the sea surrounded ing Bahrain. Since Saudi Arabia’s elements who want to see their the King Fahd Causeway, which by monarchical regimes that have social fabric is similar to that of country as a model democracy links Bahrain to Saudi Arabia. It shown solidarity in protecting Bahrain, it is aware of the depth where people can think and speak has disrupted production and peo- each other’s interests. These of the sectarian problem. freely; a country where political ple’s lives, and only a few people regimes have the means to use Saudi Arabia is also concerned participation is regulated by law, are paying attention to the immi- force and coercion, backed by about the situation in the United with a honest parliamentary sys- nent risks facing the region. their cohesive societies, so the Arab Emirates. It is worried tem where the Emir is a neutral Both the opposition and gov- time for change has not yet come. about the Muslim Brotherhood, arbiter in any dispute between ernment in Bahrain are calling Those who are betting on a for- which may be striving to topple parties. for dialogue, but they both have eign power for support to real- the regime in the UAE. Some This group of Kuwaitis is striv- their own perceptions and pro- ise their aims will definitely lose of the organisation’s members ing for free, fair and competitive grammes for the dialogue. Each the battle and fail to realise even were arrested recently and put parliamentary elections where side rejects the dialogue when their legitimate demands. I call on trial. they can have their representa- it feels that the agenda is not on such group to make realistic The Arab Gulf countries are tives, who will serve the interests according to its perceptions and demands. going through a critical phase, Need for balanced of the whole nation rather than desires. Violence must end in Bahrain. I and we all need to join hands the interests of a sect or clan. I strongly believe that the believe that use of force will never to protect this region from the The other group is taking a Bahraini government is keen on be able to silence people who dangers that are accumulating. population growth contrary stand and wants Kuwait the success of the dialogue and have demands; it will only make Governments in the Gulf are to be under the control of a partic- wants to see a quick end to the things worse. The government of responsible for the disconnect ular sect, which is looking beyond political crisis in the country. Bahrain must defend the rights of and imbalance in their relations n the wake of Qatar’s economic boom, the number of the borders of the state with the Some reformists in the opposition citizens without discrimination with their citizens, and they foreign workers has markedly increased in all fields. intention of annexing the coun- are also serious about dialogue. and fulfil the legitimate demands should take decisive decisions to As a result, the country’s population has crossed the try to a foreign power, to make What the opposition needs to of the opposition immediately. To address these problems. I1.8 million mark, up from roughly 700,000 in 2004. Kuwait dependent on and work understand is that toppling the the Shias of Bahrain, I say: “Do Rulers in the Gulf region must This increase has been accompanied by a growing birth for the agendas of others rather monarchy in Bahrain is a far- not ever think that you are capa- understand that they need to dis- rate and declining death rate due to improved healthcare. than that of the Arab nation. fetched demand. A constitutional ble of coercing the government tribute wealth fairly among their However, the birth rate for Qataris is not as high as We want Kuwait free of sec- monarchy is unattainable in the to realise your demands, and you citizens. Citizens have the right expected. Nowadays, young couples are not in favour tarianism, independent, with a near term for a number of rea- are not the only ones subject to to participate in decision-making of having more than one child. Most couples think two government that fulfils the peo- sons, one of which is that it is not cruelty of the current regimes.” and express themselves freely. or four children are enough, due to the spiralling cost ple’s needs and is not immune to easy to get rid of a monarchical I admit that some regimes in Governments must not monopo- of living and education. Despite the growing number of questioning. system that has ruled Bahrain for the Gulf do not consider their lise power. nannies in this country, young couples say they are too busy to have more kids. After getting married they immediately decide on birth control, saying they want to enjoy life with fewer responsibilities, and that they cannot bring up kids. Of course, these excuses can be easily rejected. Children There should be maximum age limit for GCC rulers are a blessing, and birth control may be easily adopted without making the mother suffer in a way that gives HE constitutions of many affect the lives of citizens in these leeway for the first baby, not to mention how nannies countries stipulate a mini- DR HASSAN EL SAYYED countries. This is why it is impor- and other facilities, provided by the government, make Tmum age of candidacy for tant to specify an age limit for rul- it easier to have kids. the post of president. For exam- ers in this part of the world. In-depth research by the population commission has ple, the constitutions of Brazil, number of terms. This means that is a mere symbol, and does not Science tells us that the immune shown that increasing the birth rate of citizens is neces- India and Austria make it neces- the president in these systems does rule. He often performs ceremo- system gets weaker as humans sary to achieve the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030, sary for presidential candidates not rule for life. nial duties. This is why it is not grow older. Older people are also and a scheme should be drawn up to encourage couples to be not less than 35 years old. Parties usually field their strong- important to specify an age limit prone to all sorts of diseases. They to have more children. Constitutions in Germany, Turkey est candidates in elections in their for the king in such a political sys- need help from others to do almost The commission said in its annual report that it had and Egypt, after the Revolution of bid to win the race. Therefore, tem. No wonder, then, that Queen everything. This can affect the way proposed giving Qatari nationals grants to have more 2011, make it necessary for the citizens over 70 years of age rarely Elizabeth II of Britain is 87 years they function if they are in power. children. The plan also includes healthcare and social candidate to be not less than 40 venture to nominate themselves. old. She is the head of state of the This is why I suggest that the benefits. years old. Ronald Reagan was the only United Kingdom and 15 other constitutions of GCC member This is not a new idea as Qatar has always favoured Constitutions, however, do not American president to buck this Commonwealth realms. states include an article on the more births by giving families financial aid. The govern- specify a maximum age for candi- trend. He was nearing 70 when The situation, however, is a bit maximum age limit for the ruler ment used to give “sharha” or a reward for every male dacy for the top post in any coun- he threw down the gauntlet to his different in the Gulf Cooperation and the crown prince. The crown baby born to a Qatari family. try. I think there are two reasons rivals in the presidential race. As Council member states. The ruler prince should not be older than 60 If the commission’s proposal is accepted, it will cer- for this. Some countries are gov- for the other 43 American presi- – be it a king, emir or sultan – has at the time of appointment. The tainly encourage families to have more children, who erned by republican regimes and dents, most of them were in their real and substantial powers. The crown prince should also retire will be Qatar’s men and women in the future. They will others by monarchical ones. In fifties when they ran for the post. ruler can take important constitu- when he reaches the age of 75. be the country’s human wealth, which is the mainstay republican political systems, presi- In constitutional monarchies, tional decisions unilaterally. Some The king should also retire when of the development initiated by our leader. Increasing dents can be elected for a specific the king has no real power. He of these decisions dramatically he reaches the age of 75. the birth rate will lead to balanced population growth. Give Qataris a chance to prove journalistic mettle

KHALID ABDULLAH AL ZYARA

HAVE deep respect for the have done nothing to make this efforts newspaper owners better future possible. My ques- and editorial staff put in tion is: When exactly will these to make newspapers more people start to act and leave aside appealing and reader- words? Ifriendly despite the meager rev- My other question is: How can enues they get. this better future be attainable These financial hardships can when all doors of success are hamper the smooth entry of firmly shut in the face of aspir- many into the journalistic field. ing journalists from this country? More difficult is the situation How can there be a bright future of Qataris who want to carve a for the journalistic profession of a niche for themselves in the print country that strangles journalistic media. Some Qataris have enthu- talent in its crib? siasm and energy, but are kept Our leading journalists have away from the journalistic pro- their own mindset. The sorry fession because of these financial thing is that this mindset does not difficulties. acknowledge talent. It does not I have great appreciation for acknowledge the right of new gen- pioneering Qatari journalists who erations to get behind the driving are working hard for the growth wheel. of newspapers and other publi- My hope is that these pioneers cations in this country, and are will do something to open the defending the rights of journalists doors for aspiring youngsters to here. The contributions of these join the journalistic profession. A people to making the voice of good step for doing this would be journalists heard everywhere and for these pioneers to start treat- paving the way for the success of ing these youngsters as partners, budding journalists by removing not mere wage earners. hindrances on their path cannot Our pioneering media pro- be forgotten. fessionals should remove from Despite this, I will still find their lexicon the word hope and fault with the work done by most instead put their trust in our of our country’s leading journal- youngsters. They should start ists. Instead of working hard to realising that mere hoping has create a new generation of prom- availed them nothing for years. ising journalists, these leaders do Mere hoping has brought them nothing but talk and express hope no progress. youngsters can receive training measured by the resources they their place on our country’s jour- be helped to reach their goals and for this to happen. Our media organizations must and education until they become invest in their youth, youth can nalistic stage whether we like infuse new blood into this coun- Newspaper editors only hope turn into institutions for learn- full-fledged professionals. uncover many of the ailments of it or not. This is why the need try’s journalistic profession. that things will get better in ing. They should be centres for The capabilities of our young- society and government if they for courageous action from our future. Though they have been disseminating knowledge and pro- sters should not be taken for are given the chance to practice leading journalists to help these The views expressed in the articles on this leading our country’s media fessional experience. They should granted. Apart from the fact journalism in a proper manner. youngsters cannot be more page do not reflect the viewpoint of the organisations for a long time, they become places where aspiring that the progress of countries is Young journalists will have urgently needed. Youngsters must newspaper. THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 10 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MIDDLE EAST EU slams Jerusalem settlement policy Settlement construction poses biggest single threat to two-state solution, says report

JERUSALEM: Israel’s con- Ramallah, the strongly-worded in east Jerusalem. “It is ringing it would likely cut the area off half. It was the decision to build “ensure that imports of settlement struction in east Jerusalem is report described Israel’s set- an alarm concerning the destruc- from Bethlehem by the end of the in E1 as a punishment for the products do not benefit from pref- a deliberate strategy to prevent tlement construction in east tive nature of the Israeli policies year. “The construction of these Palestinians winning upgraded erential tariffs” and that all such the city from becoming capital Jerusalem as “systematic, deliber- and its dangerous implications for three settlements is part of a membership at the United products are clearly labelled as of two states, an internal EU ate and provocative”, accusing the peace,” she said. “We hope that political strategy aiming at mak- Nations that saw Europe’s frus- originating from areas considered report found yesterday, urging Jewish state of making deliber- this report will be adopted by ing it impossible for Jerusalem to tration peak late last year, spark- illegal under international law. members to block funding for ate political choices that threaten Brussels and implemented indi- become the capital of two states,” ing Israeli fears that the EU could Israel captured east Jerusalem any settlement activities. to render the two-state solution vidually and collectively in con- it warned. call for economic sanctions. during the 1967 Six Day War and In its Jerusalem Report 2012, impossible. crete and tangible steps to hold “If the current pace of set- The 27-member bloc is Israel’s later annexed it in a move never the European Union said Jewish An Israel spokesman dismissed Israel accountable,” she said. tlement activity on Jerusalem’s largest import and export market recognised by the international settlement construction posed the report, saying it showed that Relations between Israel and the southern flank persists, an effec- and accounts for about a third of community. It considers all of “the biggest single threat to the the Europeans had failed in their EU have been unusually tense in tive buffer between east Jerusalem the Jewish state’s total trade. Jerusalem its “eternal, undivided” two-state solution”. diplomatic mission. recent months, with Europe voic- and Bethlehem may be in place by The report makes six rec- capital and does not see construc- And it outlined a series of rec- “A diplomat’s mission is to ing anger over a swathe of Israeli the end of 2013, thus making the ommendations on economic tion in the eastern sector as set- ommendations urging member build bridges and not to encour- plans for more than 5,000 new set- realisation of a viable two-state issues, suggesting member states tlement building. states to halt or avoid any finan- age confrontation,” foreign minis- tler homes in east Jerusalem. solution inordinately more diffi- “prevent, discourage and raise But the Palestinians want east cial investment or transactions try spokesman Yigal Palmor said. In the 15-page report, EU diplo- cult, if not impossible.” awareness about problematic Jerusalem for the capital of their which could directly or indirectly “These consuls have failed in their mats flagged construction on the The report also highlighted implications of financial trans- promised state, and they — along feed into Israel’s settlement- diplomatic mission.” southern flank of east Jerusalem Israel’s plans to build 3,426 units actions, including foreign direct with the international community building enterprise — in an effec- But the Palestinians hailed the — in Har Homa, Gilo and Givat in E1 — a deeply sensitive strip of investments, from within the EU — consider settlement construc- tive call for economic sanctions. report, with senior official Hanan HaMatos — as being the “most West Bank land east of Jerusalem, in support of settlement activities, tion there and in the West Bank Written by the EU heads Ashrawi saying it was a “responsi- significant and problematic” say- saying if implemented, it would infrastructure and services”. as a violation of international law. of mission in Jerusalem and ble assessment” of Israeli actions ing that if it continued unabated, effectively cut the West Bank in It also urges member states AFP

Iraqi aeroplane in Kuwait Two Palestinians Bahrain court jails seven Shias end hunger strike for 10 years, acquits 13 that fuelled protests DUBAI: A Bahraini court yesterday jailed seven Shias for 10 years after finding them guilty of attempting to murder police- RAMALLAH: Two Palestinian men during protests, and acquitted 13 others, the attorney gen- prisoners whose hunger strike eral said. The 20, all males, had been accused of “intentionally stoked clashes in the West Bank attempting to kill policemen in the (Shia) town of Sitra... using have ended their protest after petrol bombs” in mid-February last year, said Attorney General Israel agreed to release them in Mhanna Al Shayji. Two policemen were wounded in the attack in May, a Palestinian official said which a security forces vehicle was burnt, he said in a statement. yesterday. The main Shia opposition bloc Al-Wefaq said that the 20, among The men were among four them five children, were “tortured” during their interrogation prisoners held without formal and that confessions had been “extracted under duress”. Bahrain charge in an Israeli jail who have has continued to witness sporadic Shia-led demonstrations which refused to eat for between three now take place in Shia villages surrounding the capital. and six months. Their worsening state, coupled with the death of Ex-Gaddafi PM critical after torture in Libya another Palestinian in detention on Saturday, fuelled the violence TUNIS: Al Baghdadi Al Mahmudi, the last premier of deposed in which at least six Palestinian Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, is in critical condition after protesters were shot and badly being tortured in a Libyan prison, his Tunisian lawyer said. wounded, less than a month before Mahmudi “is in critical condition as a result of the torture he US President Barack Obama is has suffered,” said Mabrouk Kourchid, adding that “he could due to visit the West Bank town die”. The lawyer did not provide any further details nor reveal of Ramallah and Jerusalem. his sources for fear they could suffer reprisals. Mahmudi fled “Jaafar Izzedine and Tarek to Tunisia in September 2011, shortly after rebels seized Tripoli Qaadan have paused their hun- and effectively put an end to more than four decades of Gaddafi’s Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari arrives at Kuwait International Airport in Kuwait City yesterday, on-board ger strike,” said Qadura Fares, iron-fisted rule. He was arrested there and extradited to Libya the first Iraqi aeroplane to land in Kuwait since the Iraqi invasion in 1990. The symbolic Iraqi Airways flight was head of an advocacy group for last June, despite warnings from rights groups that he could hailed by officials as a sign of improving relations between the neighbours, and they were greeted by Kuwaiti Palestinian prisoners. He con- face the death penalty. He went on trial in November for what officials upon landing. The Iraqi transport ministry said there would now be regular flights between the countries. firmed that Israel had agreed to the prosecutor general’s spokesman said were “prejudicial acts release them on May 21 and said against the security of the state and financial crimes”. an Israeli court was expected to ratify the deal early next month. Ocalan ‘to declare ceasefire on March 21’ Israel holds 178 Palestinians Sudan cuts off hand, foot of man as “administrative” detainees — DIYARBAKIR: The jailed leader of Kurdish rebels is set to call jailed without trial as suspected for a long-sought ceasefire on March 21, the day of the Kurdish militants for renewable three to new year, as part of a renewed push for peace with Ankara, offi- six-month terms based on clas- cials said. “(The PKK) will declare at the very least a ceasefire convicted of robbery: Activists sified evidence. An Israeli official by Newroz (March 21) and lay down arms by July-August, after with the Prisons Authority con- which departure from the country will be discussed,” Deputy KHARTOUM: Sudanese auth- But on February 14, doctors conviction. Officials at the justice firmed that Izzedine and Qaadan Prime Minister Bulent Arinc said in an interview on NTV news, orities cut off a hand and foot of at Al Ribat police hospital in ministry, the judiciary headquar- had stopped their fast but did not relaying written instructions given by Abdullah Ocalan to the a man convicted of armed rob- Khartoum amputated the right ters in Khartoum and the con- comment on whether a deal was Kurdish rebel movement. Arinc was quoting a 20-page letter bery, rights groups said yester- hand and left foot of 30-year old stitutional court all declined to reached to free them. penned by the rebel chief outlining his views on a possible solu- day, the first such punishment Adam Al Muthna under a court comment on the amputation. Palestinian and Israeli officials tion for the nearly three-decade-long conflict between the out- under Islamic law in Sudan for order, Human Rights Watch and Kamal Al Jazouli, a Sudanese are still seeking a deal for the other lawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and Turkish security almost 30 years. three other groups said in a state- lawyer and human rights activist, two prisoners, Samer al-Issawi forces that has cost 45,000 lives, mostly Kurdish. It followed a pledge by President ment, citing reliable sources. said the government apparently and Ayman Sharawneh. They are Omar Hassan Al Bashir to imple- “Cross amputation is a form wanted to intimidate people with being treated in Israeli hospitals Balloon crash probe rules out criminal activity ment a “100 percent” Islamic of state-sponsored torture,” said the amputation at a time of dis- after months of intermittent hun- constitution as a result of the Vincent Iacopino, senior medical sent over galloping inflation and ger strikes against their re-arrest LUXOR: An initial probe into a hot air balloon crash that killed secession in 2011 of the mainly adviser at US-based Physicians corruption. “They want to instil after having been freed in a 2011 up to 19 tourists in Egypt has ruled out any criminal activity as a non-Muslim south of Sudan. for Human Rights, which issued fear in people. How can you pun- prisoner swap with Israel. cause of the accident, state media said yesterday. “Investigations Shariah (Islamic law) was first the statement with New York- ish a thief in such a draconian way At least six Palestinian protest- so far by the general prosecution show no suspicion of criminal introduced in the vast north- based HRW as well as British in a poor country like Sudan?” ers were wounded this week in activity,” the official Mena news agency reported, citing the pre- east African country in 1983 and rights groups Redress and the A group of doctors organised clashes with Israeli troops after liminary findings of the investigation. Four investigating teams Bashir began to expand its appli- African Centre for Justice and in the opposition group “Change Arafat Jaradat died while being were formed after Prime Minister Hisham Qandil ordered a cation after he took power in a Peace Studies. Now” also denounced the amputa- interrogated in an Israeli jail on probe into Tuesday’s balloon crash in the ancient temple city 1989 Islamist coup. Floggings are The Al Sudani daily said a state tion. “Hospitals and medical insti- Saturday. A United Nations rights of Luxor that killed tourists from Hong Kong, Japan, Britain, common for drinking alcohol but court had convicted Muthna of fir- tutions are there to treat people envoy called for an independent France and Hungary. Luxor Governor Saad Ezzat and a dele- amputations of the right hand ing on a car with an assault rifle and not to execute such rulings,” inquiry into Jaradat’s death yes- gation of Egyptian officials, as well as tourism industry profes- and left feet — among the most in the Sharaf area in March 2006 it said. Last year, Sudanese courts terday. UN Secretary-General sionals, visited the scene of the crash where they placed three draconian punishments allowed in to force it to stop and then stole sentenced two women for adul- Ban Ki-moon appealed for calm bouquets of white flowers before observing a minute’s silence. Sudan — had not been meted out 1,000 Sudanese pounds ($228) tery to stoning. Both women were and said Israel should either put since the mid-1980s, according to from its passengers. It said Sudan’s later freed after appeal courts the Palestinians in its custody on Saudi urged to disclose fate of Jordanian local rights activists. constitutional court upheld the overturned the rulings. AFP trial or release them. REUTERS AMMAN: Amnesty International urged Saudi Arabia yesterday to disclose the whereabouts of a Jordanian activist it said was arrested last month and ensure to that he is protected from tor- ture. Web developer Khalid Al Natur, 27, was arrested on January 6 when he and four associates arrived at Riyadh’s airport on a business trip, Amnesty said, adding that the others “were told Former Iranian FM joins presidential race they would risk a similar fate if they did not leave the airport immediately”. Amnesty said Natur, a member of movement call- DUBAI: Former Iranian foreign with Supreme Leader’s beliefs Jalili said two days of talks with financial gain. Khamenei loyalists ing for political and economic reform in Jordan, was arrested last minister Manouchehr Mottaki and the people’s demands so that world powers that ended in Almaty are scrambling to eradicate the year near the Saudi consulate in Amman for insulting a security has announced he will run for in a government with the name yesterday were a “positive step”, power and influence of the more officer during a protest “against Saudi Arabia’s involvement in president in an election in June of the Islamic Republic, the presi- but there was no sign of a break- nationalist Ahmadinejad who Bahrain”. “Neither the Jordanian authorities nor Natur’s family, likely to be dominated by seeth- dent would be more than a sym- through in the dispute. Iran denies they fear will back a candidate to who have sought information about his case, have been provided ing conservative rivalries. pathiser for the people and give Western accusations that it is seek- pursue what they say is his plan with an official response regarding his detention, including his The presidential poll is a cru- something more than a future ing a nuclear weapons capability. to weaken the influence of Iran’s whereabouts and the reason for his detention,” Amnesty said. cial test for Iran after the last one promise,” Mottaki said on his Mottaki is viewed as an ally of clergy and the Supreme Leader. in 2009 ignited mass street pro- website in a message to Iranians Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani, Iranian media have suggested 52 hurt in Algeria protest over social housing tests in Tehran and other cities announcing his candidacy. a conservative who lost to that Ahmadinejad is grooming after Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s In a sign that Mottaki may not Ahmadinejad in the 2005 election his former chief of staff Esfandiar ALGIERS: People angry over the allocation of subsidised housing disputed re-election. agree with the Supreme Leader on and has since kept up an intense Rahim Mashaei, despised by con- have clashed with police in a town east of the Algerian capital, leav- As Iran remains locked in everything, a note on his website rivalry with him. Mottaki served servatives as a “deviant” influence ing 52 people injured, witnesses said yesterday. Rioters sacked the a stand-off with world powers last month criticised “crude” sug- as foreign minister for five years on the president, as his approved mayor’s office in Bodj Bou Arreridj, 230km from the capital, and over its nuclear programme, gestions set out by Iran’s nuclear until the president dismissed him candidate, but there has been no partly blocked a motorway, causing tailbacks. Forty-three demon- rifts between Ahmadinejad and negotiators. Diplomats and ana- in December 2010. official word. strators and nine police were being treated in hospital, a day after rivals loyal to Supreme Leader lysts say the defiant position of The struggle between president The Supreme Leader controls the protests broke out when a list of 935 people being allocated social Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threaten Saeed Jalili, Iran’s chief negotia- and parliament has intensified in the Council of Guardians, which housing was published. The demonstrators gathered in front of the to tarnish the legitimacy of the tor, is firmly backed by Khamenei, recent weeks after Ahmadinejad oversees elections and can bar prefecture with banners that read: “We demand our right to hous- state’s theocratic ruling system. who has the last word on nuclear publicly accused Larijani’s fam- candidates from standing. ing” and “Down with corruption and favouritism”. AGENCIES “I will propose a plan in line and other state policies. ily of using their position for REUTERS THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 INTERNATIONAL www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 11 America must Germany relaxes immigration rules

BERLIN: Germany sought skilled labour that can help our the EU has failed to resolve. tertiary qualifications by 2025. yesterday to make it easier for country progress,” said Labour The government has already German business welcomed the not ‘dictate’ skilled workers from outside the Minister Ursula von der Leyen introduced measures to cut new rules. The BDA employers’ European Union to take a job in in a statement. bureaucracy and encourage com- federation said it would “facili- the country, trying to alleviate Germany has already intro- panies to recognise qualifications tate the targeted immigration of chronic shortages in areas such duced a “blue card” system from abroad, but critics say it badly-needed skilled labour also as engineering, train driving making it easier to hire foreign is not enough. Immigration to in non-academic areas”, citing to world: Hagel and plumbing. academics and has also made it Germany is growing as its econ- a particular shortage of skills in Chancellor Angela Merkel’s easier for foreign nurses to work omy outperforms most of Europe. engineering and electronics. cabinet passed new immigration here. But it now needs more train Net immigration grew to 340,000 It welcomed a “change of men- rules which, pending approval by drivers, plumbers and waste-dis- last year from 128,000 two years tality” that would make foreign US defence secretary speaks out parliament’s upper house, aim to posal workers, the minister said. earlier, with many more arrivals workers feel more welcome. cut red tape for people in target In contrast to most of the from southern European coun- Many would-be migrants WASHINGTON: Decorated confirm him late on Tuesday industries, allowing them to get EU, where joblessness has risen, tries hit by the debt crisis. are put off by having to learn Vietnam veteran Chuck Hagel was the closest vote ever to their qualifications recognised in Germany’s employment rate is at But this month the German, but language schools was sworn in as US defence sec- approve a defence secretary, Germany more easily. its highest since reunification in Organisation for Economic such as the Goethe Institute now retary yesterday after a bruis- with only four Republicans sup- The rules would come into 1990. But an ageing population Cooperation and Development report record enrolments while ing Senate confirmation battle, porting him. effect in July. “With this new and relatively low immigration said Germany must liberalise the more German firms are starting and promised to renew old US Hagel did not acknowledge any decree we are jettisoning 40 per- has created a lack of workers in recruitment of foreigners to fill to accept English as the language alliances and forge new ones Republican criticisms or reveal cent of the old rules and leav- certain professions and sectors, a projected shortfall of 5.4 mil- of the workplace. without attempting to “dictate” any personal concerns about ing the door wide open for the which free movement of labour in lion workers with vocational or REUTERS to the world. working with Congress during Addressing Pentagon employ- his remarks yesterday. But he ees shortly after a small, closed- did articulate his views about the door swearing-in ceremony, Hagel need for caution when America Kerry, Hollande hold talks Pope Benedict bids farewell spoke optimistically, if vaguely, flexes its muscle abroad. about global challenges ahead “We have great power and how VATICA N CIT Y: Pope Benedict XVI yesterday admitted and the importance of American we apply our power is particularly “stormy waters” during his papacy as he gave an emotional leadership abroad. important,” Hagel said. “That farewell at St Peter’s Square before tens of thousands of pil- “We can’t dictate to the world. engagement in the world should grims on the eve of his momentous resignation. A smiling But we must engage the world. be done wisely. And the resources Benedict looked relaxed as his white “popemobile” bore him We must lead with our allies,” that we employ on behalf of our through the famous plaza where more than 150,000 people had Hagel said in what appeared to be country and our allies should gathered under a bright, cloudless sky for his historic sendoff. unscripted remarks. “No nation, always be applied wisely.” A hush fell over the sea of pilgrims as the Pope began speak- as great as America is, can do any Hagel’s views of war and the ing. “The Lord gave us days of sun and of light breeze, days of this alone.” limits of American military power in which the fishing was good. There were also moments when He also plainly acknowl- were shaped in part by his expe- there were stormy waters and headwinds... as if God was sleep- edged the prospect of looming riences in Vietnam, where he ing,” the Pope said in an apparent reference to the multiple scan- automatic budget cuts, known fought as an infantryman along- dals that have plagued his reign. “But I always knew that God as the sequester, saying flatly: side his brother and was awarded was in that boat and I always knew that the boat of the Church “That’s a reality. We need to fig- two Purple Hearts, the medal is not mine, is not ours, but is his and he will not let it sink,” the ure this out. You are doing that. given to troops wounded in battle. leader of the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics told the cheering crowd. We need to deal with this real- Hagel still carries the shrapnel “I never felt alone,” he said. ity,” he added, as hopes dim in from one of his injuries and he is Washington that Congress might the first Vietnam veteran to lead Clegg admits ‘very serious mistakes’ act in time to forestall $46bn in the Pentagon. Introducing Hagel Pentagon cuts, due to kick in on in the Pentagon auditorium, an LONDON: British Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg admitted March 1. Army infantryman with two tours yesterday that “very serious mistakes” were made over a sex scan- Hagel, a former two-term in Afghanistan said Hagel “knows dal which has rocked his Liberal Democrat party ahead of a crucial Republican US senator from the very real cost of war” and was by-election. Clegg repeated his insistence that he was unaware of Nebraska, broke from his party guided by principals to use force allegations of sexual harassment by several female party workers during the administration of only when necessary. against former Lib Dem chief executive Lord Chris Rennard until George W Bush to become a Among his first tasks, Hagel they emerged last week. But he conceded that rumours about the fierce critic of the Iraq war. Many will start weighing in on cru- behaviour of Rennard — who strongly denies groping the women Republicans opposed to Hagel’s cial decisions about the Afghan — had been “in the background” of the peer’s resignation due to nomination scorned him over Iraq war, notably the size and scope ill-health in 2009. The Lib Dems, the junior coalition partners in and raised questions about whether of the American force that Prime Minister David Cameron’s Conservative-led government, he was sufficiently supportive of President Barack Obama will have launched two internal inquiries into the allegations. Israel, tough enough on Iran or leave behind in the country once truly committed to maintaining a Nato declares its combat mission US Secretary of State John Kerry (right) is greeted by French President Putin tells army to shape up robust nuclear deterrent. over at the end of 2014. Francois Hollande on the steps of the Elysee Palace in Paris, yesterday. The 58-41 Senate vote to REUTERS Both held talks on Mali and Syria and a proposed trans-Atlantic deal to MOSCOW: Vladimir Putin ordered military leaders yesterday create the world’s largest free trade zone. to make urgent improvements to the armed forces during his new presidential term, saying Russia must thwart attempts by the West to tip the strategic balance of power. Putin’s remarks, to rows of uniformed officers and defence officials, reflected increasing hawkishness since he returned to the Kremlin for a Italy’s Grillo six-year term last May. “Attempts are being made to tip the stra- Hackers target European govts tegic balance,” said Putin, who as president is commander-in- chief of the armed forces. “Geopolitical dynamics call for a quick SAN FRANCISCO: Hackers The researchers, who declined search for Tweets from specific refuses to and considered response ... Russia’s armed forces must move on targeted dozens of computer to further elaborate on the vic- Twitter accounts that contained to a new level of capabilities in the next three to five years.” Putin systems at government agen- tims’ identities, released their instructions for controlling those has been the driving force behind plans to spend $750bn through cies across Europe in a series of findings as more than 20,000 PCs. In cases where they could support govt 2020 to upgrade Russia’s ageing armaments. attacks that exploited a recently security professionals gathered not access those Tweets, the virus discovered security flaw in Adobe in San Francisco for the annual ran Google searches to receive its ROME: An Italian political cri- French resistance hero Hessel dies Systems Inc’s software, security RSA conference. marching orders. Officials with sis that has rattled the eurozone researchers reported yesterday. The researchers suspect Twitter and Google could not deepened yesterday when two PARIS: French resistance hero and Russia’s Kaspersky Lab MiniDuke was designed for espio- immediately be reached. party leaders ruled out the most Holocaust survivor Stephane Hessel (pic- and Hungary’s Laboratory nage, but were still trying to fig- MiniDuke attacked its victims likely options to form a govern- tured), whose 2010 manifesto Time for of Cryptography and System ure out the attack’s ultimate goal. by exploiting recently discovered ment and avoid a new election. Outrage sold millions of copies and inspired Security, or CrySyS, said the Boldizsár Bencsáth, a cyber security bugs in Adobe’s Reader Populist leader Beppe Grillo protest movements worldwide, has died targets of the campaign included security expert who runs the mal- and Acrobat software, according slammed the door on overtures from at the age of 95, his wife said yesterday. government computers in the ware research team at CrySyS, to the researchers. The attack- centre-left boss Pier Luigi Bersani Hessel joined Charles de Gaulle in exile Czech Republic, Ireland, Portugal said that he had reported the inci- ers sent their targets PDF docu- with a stream of insults while Nichi during World War II, was waterboarded by and Romania. dent to Nato’s Computer Incident ments tainted with malware, an Vendola, Bersani’s junior coalition the Nazis, escaped hanging in concentra- They also said a think-tank, Response Capability, a group that approach that hackers have long partner, ruled out a government tion camps and took part in drafting the research institute and healthcare analyses and responds to cyber used to infect personal computers. alliance with the centre-right. Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. Tributes poured provider in the United States, a threats. Nato officials declined Bencsáth said he believed the These two options are currently in for Hessel, with French President Francois Hollande praising prominent research institute in comment. attackers installed “back doors” at seen as the only way to avoid “the exceptional life” of a man he said was a symbol of human dig- Hungary and other entities in The MiniDuke operators used dozens of organisations that would returning to the polls in short order nity and the United Nations celebrating a “monument” in the his- Belgium and Ukraine were among an unusual approach to commu- enable them to view information on after the February 24-25 elec- tory of human rights. Time for Outrage, his 32-page essay that sold those targeted by the malicious nicate with infected machines, those systems, then siphon off data tion, in which a huge protest vote more than 4.5 million copies in 35 countries, provoked the “Occupy software, which they have dubbed according to the researchers. they found interesting. against traditional politicians and Wall Street” movement which began in New York’s financial dis- “MiniDuke”. The virus was programmed to REUTERS austerity policies plunged Italy into trict and spread to other countries. Hessel served as a diplomat in deadlock. The centre-left took the Vietnam and Algeria and had been made ambassador for life. most seats in the poll but no single group has a big enough majority to UK set to cull thousands of badgers Three dead in Swiss factory shooting rule. Grillo’s anti-establishment 5-Star Movement blocked centre- LONDON: Britain is set to cull up to 5,000 badgers in a bid left control of parliament after one to combat tuberculosis in cattle which has outraged animal of the biggest populist victories in welfare groups, after two pilot schemes were given the green recent European history. light yesterday. The culls will see 70 percent of the black Bersani put out cautious feelers and white animals killed in two areas of southwest England to Grillo on Tuesday, suggesting — Gloucestershire and west Somerset — after the Natural there could be agreement on a England government agency approved the pilots. Ministers short list of measures common to say culls are needed as bovine TB, which spreads from badg- both sides. But he said those sup- ers to livestock, costs farmers and the taxpayer millions of porting a centre-left government pounds every year. “Bovine TB is spreading at an alarming would have to back it in a confi- rate and causing real devastation to our beef and dairy indus- dence vote, which would be essen- try,” Environment Secretary Owen Paterson told a conference tial before it could be installed. of Britain’s National Farmers’ Union. Grillo responded on his blog by calling Bersani a “dead man Prince Harry returns to Lesotho talking” and a political stalker, accusing him of making “indecent MASERU: Britain’s Prince Harry visited his charity projects in proposals” and calling on him to Lesotho yesterday, finding time to perform traditional dance moves resign. The centre-left slumped to with children during his return visit to the southern African king- well below the winning majority dom. On the last day of a three-day tour, the 28-year-old stopped that opinion polls had predicted. by schools for deaf and blind children in and around the capital Grillo said 5-Star would not Maseru. He watched fascinated as students at St Bernadette’s give a vote of confidence to the Resource Centre for the Blind played a football match unassisted, centre-left or anybody else, but and chatted with pupils afterwards. “What do you want to be when would support laws that reflected you grow up?” he asked a boy dressed in the school’s khaki-col- its own programme to abolish a oured uniform. “A soldier,” he replied in Sesotho, the local lan- Police remove a car at the wood-processing factory of Kronospan following a shooting in Menznau near the despised electoral law, slash the guage. “I’m a soldier myself. I’ll tell you what that is like next time,” Swiss city of Lucerne, yesterday. Three people, including the suspected assailant, were killed in a shooting privileges of a discredited political said Harry, who returned in January from a five-month tour in at the factory. Seven were injured in the attack which happened just after 0800 GMT. class and remove public funding Afghanistan as army helicopter gunner. AGENCIES from the parties. REUTERS THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 12 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com ASIA / PHILIPPINES

121 Rohingya Nuclear arms can reach US: N Korea sailors rescued COT TRUENG, INDONESIA: Fishermen Experts say Pyongyang has a long way to go to develop inter-continental ballistic missile in western Indonesia res- cued 121 Rohingya who had SEOUL: North Korea warned Although experts believe the sailed from Myanmar, an yesterday that the US main- North has a long way to go to official said yesterday, with land was “well within” the developing a dependable inter- an asylum seeker claiming range of its nuclear weapons, as continental ballistic missile, the they had been shot at in Thai Pyongyang continued to ramp December launch was a step in waters. The Rohingya were up the bellicose rhetoric after the right direction. found drifting around 25km its recent nuclear test. And this month’s nuclear test (15 miles) from the coastal In an article posted on the fuelled concerns that North Korea village of Cot Trueng, on the official Uriminzokkiri website, a is refining the technical ability to northernmost tip of Sumatra member of the Korean National place a miniaturised nuclear war- island in Aceh province, vil- Peace Committee — a propaganda head on a long-range missile. lage chief Mukhtar Samsyah body — said the North was now After analysing debris from said. “Their boat ran out of a “fully-independent rocket and the rocket launch in December, petrol as they tried to sail to nuclear weapons state”. the South Korean military esti- Thailand,” he said. Myanmar “The US should be acutely mated its possible range at around views its roughly 800,000 aware that its mainland is well 10,000km (6,200 miles), bringing Rohingya inhabitants as ille- within the range of our strategic in the west coast of the US. gal Bangladeshi immigrants, rockets and nuclear weapons,” the So Se Pyong, North Korea’s denying them citizenship. signed commentary said. Ambassador in Geneva, told the North Korea made a similar UN-sponsored Conference on Restaurant sign claim in October last year, say- Disarmament in Geneva that the South Korean soldiers stand guard in fog as a North Korean soldier (center far) stands at the truce village of ing it possessed rockets capable of US was contributing to an “unpre- triggers online fury striking the continental US. dictable” situation on the divided Panmunjom in the demilitarsied zone dividing North and South Koreas, yesterday. HANOI: A sign at a Beijing That was largely dismissed Korean peninsula and abusing its restaurant barring citizens as bluster, but that was before power in the UN Security Council nuclear test explosion two weeks North Korea’s delegation threat- Ambassador Kwon Haeryong of nations involved in mari- Pyongyang conducted a success- to impose its “hostile policy” ago, its biggest and most power- ened South Korea with “final urged the North to “abandon its time disputes with China ful long-range rocket launch in against Pyongyang. ful to date which drew warnings destruction” during a heated nuclear ambitions without delay — along with dogs — has December, followed by its third North Korea is facing further from Washington and interna- debate at the talks. and embark on the path to peace”. triggered a wave of online nuclear test on February 12. UN sanctions for its underground tional condemnation. A week ago, South Korea’s disarmament AGENCIES outrage among Vietnamese and Filipinos. Photographs of the controversial sign at the Beijing Snacks near the Forbidden City, a popular tourist spot, have gone viral in Vietnamese-language Thailand keen on Kiram ready to face consequences forums and featured heavily in Philippine newspapers and MANILA: Sultan Jamalul now,” Kiram said. “You will note in a message to the President. websites yesterday. Vietnam’s Kiram III is “ready to face the that emissaries sent to us have As this developed, the Moro state-run Tuoi Tre newspa- talks with rebels consequences” of his defiance been denied by Malacañang in National Liberation Front per said the sign had “ignited of President Aquino’s directive the first four days of the issue and (MNLF) has placed its fighters online fury” and claimed BANGKOK: Thailand wants he said. that he order his followers to that those emissaries sent were in Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi many Vietnamese feel this is to hold peace talks with mili- He stressed the need for “core leave Sabah, saying they have not diplomatic people but rather on red alert as tensions in Sabah another example of Chinese tant groups behind a festering militant leaders active in mount- not violated any law. political and military officials,” rise, the group’s political officer “extreme nationalism that insurgency in the south “soon”, ing the violence” to be identified “What else do we have to Sulu sultan said. Haji Gapul Hajirul said. deserves to be condemned”. the head of the kingdom’s and engaged in any talks. prove? With all the historical “Mr President, what more proof The MNLF also said it has Filipinos also greeted the highest security body said “Otherwise it will not solve the facts, the sultanate of Sulu has do you want us to show that Sabah adopted a resolution of the photo with a mixture of fury yesterday. problem,” he said, explaining the not violated a law in allowing is ours? By the mere fact that Sultanate of Sulu calling on the and amusement. The comments come amid a NSC was still establishing the our people to come to our home- Malaysia is paying us annually United Nations to send a peace- recent spike in attacks in the authority of militant leaders to land,” Kiram’s Secretary-General in the amount of 5,300 Malaysia keeping force to Sabah to prevent Lanka flays Pillay on Muslim-majority south border- negotiate. Abraham Idjirani quoted the sul- ringgit, is it not enough?” bloodshed between the sultanate ing Malaysia and ahead of a meet- Thailand’s southernmost prov- tan as saying. He also stressed he allowed his forces and Malaysian security abuse reports ing between Thai Prime Minister inces suffer almost daily gun and Idjirani said the sultan is open brother Raja Muda Agbimuddin forces. GENEVA: Sri Lanka accused Yingluck Shinawatra and her bomb attacks by shadowy insur- to negotiating a peaceful end to Kiram to settle in “our homeland” Hajirul said armed civilians in UN High Commissioner for Malaysian counterpart Najib gents fighting for greater auton- the standoff, which began on with armed followers to protect Sulu and Tawi-Tawi are ready Human Rights Navi Pillay yes- Razak today. omy, a demand Thai authorities February 9. the “crown prince.” to enter Sabah to support the terday of being biased against The pair will discuss the have totally rejected. A possible compromise is the “History proves that the Sultan sultan’s followers. Intelligence it for criticising alleged kill- nine-year insurgency, which has Members of Thailand’s secu- surrender of their firearms to the of Sulu has never been involved sources confirmed groups of ings of former Tamil Tiger claimed more than 5,500 lives, and rity forces and civilians accused Philippine government and allow- in any violence in its quest for armed Tausugs were massing up independence fighters and the possibility of Malaysia hosting of collaboration with the authori- ing more than 200 of the sultan’s justice. in areas just across Sabah. political dissenters and jour- talks with the militants. ties are frequently targeted with followers to remain in Lahad As far as we are concerned we Intelligence sources confirmed nalists. In a speech to the UN “I hope that talks will happen ambushes and roadside bombs. Datu town in Sabah, Idjirani said. haven’t committed a crime,” the groups of armed Tausugs were Human Rights Council, The soon,” said Lieutenant-General The possibility of peace has In a statement, Kiram said he sultan pointed out. massing up in areas just across official, presidential envoy Paradorn Pattanathabutr, sec- been dogged by the complex was thankful the President was “Mr President, I Sultan Jamalul Sabah. on human rights Mahinda retary-general of Thailand’s make-up of the insurgency and beginning to give the issue greater Kiram, pledge that my brother “The only thing that prevents Samarasinghe also asserted National Security Council, who doubts persist over the level of attention. Datu Raja Muda Agbimuddin these armed civilian groups from that Western countries criti- will join Yingluck in this week’s control that older, exiled leaders “For the first time, we thank Kiram and our followers will not swarming to Sabah is the naval cal of the country’s record talks in Kuala Lumpur. known to Thai authorities, exert the President for his official initiate the violence and signed it blockade being enforced by the had fallen prey to lies spread “Malaysia will facilitate (the over the younger — and more pronouncement on the standoff with blood and that of my broth- Philippine Navy,” a source from by former members of the talks) by arranging the venue violent — fighters on the ground. in Sabah and we are happy that ers. But we are prepared to defend Sulu said. Tamil Tiger movement. He but will have no role in talks,” AFP he is officially aware of the issue our lives and aspirations,” he said THE PHILIPPINE STAR said Pillay lacked “objectivity and impartiality” in reports to the council and her com- World’s oldest woman ments on Sri Lanka were based on “unsubstantiated Funnel removed from US ship evidence.” China urged to MANILA: Salvage teams have removed the funnel from a US Navy ship stranded on a UN World Heritage-listed coral reef in the release Xiaobo Philippines after bad weather caused weeks of delays, the coast- TAIPEI: More than 140 guard said yesterday. Nobel laureates led by The 68-metre (223-foot) USS Guardian minesweeper got stuck on Archbishop Desmond Tutu the Tubbataha Reef on January 17 and strong winds and heavy seas urged China yesterday to have hampered the operation to dismantle it. release Nobel Peace Prize The team has also removed the ship’s winch, used to operate its winner Liu Xiaobo, a rights sonar equipment, and plans to dismantle the mast later Wednesday, activist jailed for subver- said regional coastguard spokeswoman Lieutenant Greanata Jude. sion since 2009. In a letter “Most of the equipment on top of the deck has been transferred to also signed by 400,000 people a barge but they have yet to get the large equipment inside the ship,” from more than 130 coun- she said. Sensitive equipment will be re-used but most of the ship will tries, the laureates called on have to be scrapped after its hull was breached when it ran aground China’s president-in-waiting the reef in a remote part of the Sulu Sea, she said. Xi Jinping to release Liu and The ship damaged a section of the reef, a Unesco World Heritage his wife Liu Xia, who has not site, known for its rich marine life. President Benigno Aquino has been charged but is being held said the US Navy will have to pay penalties for the damage. The under house arrest. The peti- wood-and-fibreglass hulled boat, estimated to cost about $277m, tion was being submitted to was too badly damaged to be towed away, the US Navy said earlier. the Chinese embassies and Guinness AFP diplomatic missions in Hong Japan’s 114-year-old Misao Okawa smiles as she is recognised as the world’s oldest woman by the Kong, New York, Paris, Berlin World Record as her 90-year-old son Hiroshi (left) holds her framed certificate in Osaka, western Japan, yesterday. and London. Sejong hat holds Policeman dies, 42 injured Alleged rape victim to be flogged clues to alphabet SEOUL: A hat which belonged to South Korea’s in Myanmar land grab clash MALE: A Maldives court has sentenced, she will be lashed once condemned by rights groups and most revered monarch King sentenced a 15-year-old alleged she turns 18,” the court official, the government has urged leni- Sejong has been recovered YANGON: A policeman died a curfew in the area when the rape victim to 100 lashes and who asked not to be named, said. ency towards the girl, saying more than 500 years after and 42 people were injured protesters become aggressive on eight months under house “But the sentence will be she had been traumatised by the it was looted by Japanese in Myanmar yesterday dur- Tuesday but it had been ignored, arrest after she admitted hav- enforced immediately if she wants repeated rapes by her stepfather. invaders, a senior scholar ing a protest by farmers over a police office said. ing had premarital sex in a sep- it to be carried out now,” he added. Ahmed Faiz, a researcher with said yesterday. Documents what they said was a land grab “They just kept demanding arate incident, Zaima Nasheed The child’s stepfather faces up Amnesty International, said flog- were found stitched inside by a private company, a grow- immediate handover of the land a spokesperson for the juvenile to 25 years in prison if convicted ging was “cruel, degrading and the hat carrying explanations ing source of tension as people to them and started to attack the court, said yesterday. of rape and a murder charge, inhumane” and urged the authori- of King Sejong’s greatest leg- assert their rights after the end policemen with sticks, daggers and She defended the punishment, after he allegedly killed a baby ties to abolish it. acy — the Hangeul alphabet. of military rule. slingshots with darts, police fired saying the girl had willingly com- which resulted from his rape of President Mohamed Waheed’s Sejong the Great ruled from Twenty-seven police were warning shots and rubber bullets. mitted an act outside of the law. his step-daughter. spokesman Masood Imad said in 1418-1450 and introduced among the injured on the sixth “About 1,000 acres of land had During a police probe into alle- The case was sent for pros- January that the girl should be the Hangeul phonetic alpha- day of demonstrations in Maletto been confiscated about 10 years gations that the girl had been ecution after police were called treated as a victim. bet that replaced classical Village Tracts, around 40 miles ago without anything being done raped by her stepfather, investi- to investigate a dead baby bur- In September a court ordered Chinese characters. Hangeul (64 km) west of Yangon in the to it. Nothing is grown and no fish gators uncovered evidence that ied on the island of Feydhoo in the public flogging of a 16-year-old remains the official script of fertile Irrawaddy Delta, the rice are kept there,” said Win Cho, an she had consensual sex with Shaviyani Atoll. who confessed to premarital sex. both South and North Korea. bowl of Myanmar. activist. another man. The premarital sex charge Her lover was jailed for 10 years. AGENCIES The authorities had imposed REUTERS “Though she has been against the teenager has been AFP THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 PAKISTAN / AFGHANISTAN www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 13

Afghans hold anti-US rally 16 killed in Taliban offensive MAIDEN SHAR, AFGHANISTAN: More than 500 men marched through the Militants attack police checkpoint in Ghazni and a suicide bomber targets army bus in Kabul capital of Afghanistan’s res- tive Wardak province, in an GHAZNI: The Taliban killed around 7.10am (0240 GMT), outburst of anger against US at least 16 people at an Afghan said Kabul police spokesman special forces accused of over- police checkpoint yesterday Hashmatullah Stanikzai. seeing torture and killings in and a suicide bomber struck an He said six members of the the area. They called for the army bus in Kabul, highlight- defence ministry and four civil- immediate withdrawal of US ing a growing trend of strikes ians were wounded, mostly hit by soldiers and threatened to join on Afghan rather than Nato shattered glass. the Taliban if their demand targets. A witness told the TOLO TV was not met. Protesters and Details of the pre-dawn attack channel that the bomber was car- officials alleged that Afghan on an Afghan Local Police (ALP) rying an umbrella to shield him- men working with a small checkpoint in the eastern prov- self from snow. unit of US special forces had ince of Ghazni were murky. “I was standing across the illegally detained, tortured Officials said they were investi- street when I saw a man holding and killed suspected insur- gating how the militants breached an umbrella approach the army gents. A US defence official in security. bus. He then slid under the bus. Washington said a review in ALP national commander I thought he was the driver, but recent months of cooperation General Alishah Ahmadzai said moments later the explosion hap- with Afghanistan’s Defence 10 policemen and “five or six local pened,” he said. Ministry and National villagers” who took part in an Western officials say insurgents Directorate of Security found uprising against the Taliban in are shifting their strategy away no involvement of Western the Andar district of Ghazni had from focusing on the US-led Nato forces. The peaceful two-hour been killed. “Initial information combat mission, which is due to protest culminated outside the shows they were first poisoned withdraw next year, to targeting Wardak provincial council. and then shot, but we have to wait Afghan forces preparing to take “If the situation remains like for the final report of our investi- over. this, the province will collapse gative team,” he said. Among 10 attacks recorded very soon,” said protester Haji Provincial Governor Musa by AFP in Afghanistan so far Abdul Qadim. Khan Akbarzada gave a toll of 17, this year, only one targeted Nato including seven civilians, and said troops, on January 25, in the trou- UN takes Bin Laden a team had been sent to investi- bled eastern province of Kapisa. gate the incident. Five civilians were killed. off sanctions list A spokesman for the Taliban, All others have targeted tribal Afghan National Army soldiers investigate the scene near a damaged bus, which was carrying army personnel UNITED NATIONS: The who are leading an 11-year fight elders, police or Afghan intel- when it was attacked by a suicide bomber, in Kabul, yesterday. UN Security Council has against the Western-backed gov- ligence agents. “Since the start taken Osama bin Laden off ernment of President Hamid of the year, the objective has its sanctions list — almost Karzai, claimed responsibility for mainly been Afghans, even if Nato’s International Security the number was roughly the same was discovered during a routine two years after the death of for both attacks. Nato remains a target,” a Western Assistance Force had wrongly as in 2011 at about 3,000. quality check. We are making the the Al Qaeda mastermind. The bomber struck the army security official said. reported a seven percent decline “This is a regrettable error appropriate adjustments.” But the council will maintain bus on foot on a main road at The Pentagon admitted that in Taliban attacks last year, saying in our database systems that AFP a freeze on his assets to stop them being used for militant activities. The council’s Al Qaeda sanctions committee said Bin Laden’s name had been deleted from its list for a travel ban and arms embargo but UN members would have Islamabad bracing for US troops withdrawal to request the panel before any assets are released. The WASHINGTON: Pakistan Atlantic Council in Washington, “The civilian government of distrust” that bedevilled their Unlike the US and the Soviet country would have to “pro- is bracing itself for the conse- Rehman said Pakistan no longer and the military are working ties. Union, “we do not have the luxury vide assurances to the com- quences of the US withdrawal saw Afghanistan as its strategic together” in bringing about this “There are ghosts from the past of walking away from the region”, mittee that the assets will from Afghanistan, Islamabad’s backyard and the military was change, she said. that need to be stood up and exor- she added. not be transferred, directly Ambassador to Washington supporting this policy shift. “It “We have stopped playing cised,” she added. Rehman said she did not or indirectly, to a listed indi- Sherry Rehman said, underlin- builds equities for peace,” she said, favourites in Afghanistan because The “narrative of abandon- like using “the cliché” that vidual, group, undertaking or ing the country’s policy options in response to a question about we have learned that no one but ment” still dominated conver- Afghanistan was a graveyard of entity, or otherwise used for after 2014. the country’s nuclear arsenal. the Afghans can broker peace for sations in Pakistan because the empires “but it does bubble up”. terrorist purposes.” “If there’s no negotiated reso- But she explained that their country.” memories of the recent past were She stressed the need for going lution to the Afghan crisis, there Islamabad also had launched a Rehman said that those who “littered with a toxic trash of beyond Afghanistan while seeking Journalist shot dead will be terrible consequences and ‘diplomatic surge’ to bring peace suggested that the US and war”, she said. a new relationship with Pakistan Pakistan will be the worst hit,” and stability to the region and Pakistan were like a couple who Pakistan was not trying to and urged the Americans to base in tribal region she said. was working with other nations were once married but were now divest itself of the responsibilities new ties on trade, not aid. MIRANSHAH: Gunmen The US plans to end its combat in South and Central Asia to engaged in divorce proceedings of what happened after the Soviet Rehman also reminded the shot dead a senior local jour- operations in Afghanistan by the achieve it. committed ‘intellectual laziness’. withdrawal from Afghanistan but Americans that terrorists could nalist in Pakistan’s lawless end of 2014 and is encouraging She rejected the suggestion “This is a relationship between it did have a calendar of anxieties not be defeated with drones alone. northwestern tribal region Kabul to engage the Taliban for that while the civilian govern- two independent nations with real as another withdrawal gets closer, “It’s not a very good idea, is a yesterday, witnesses said. a peaceful end to the conflict. The ment may have moved away from responsibilities,” she said. she said. breach of international laws and Malik Mumtaz, who worked Taliban appear reluctant to work viewing Afghanistan as its stra- The two countries, she noted, The US and Pakistan “may brings only diminishing returns for the Geo TV channel and with Kabul. tegic backyard, the military still had “cognitive disconnects” and have won the war together, but to for the US.” English and Urdu newspapers In a policy speech at the believed in the old doctrine. needed to overcome “pathologies we lost the peace”, she said. INTERNEWS from the same group, was shot in Miranshah, the main town of North Waziristan tribal dis- Fun time trict. “Gunmen opened fire on his vehicle when he was driv- ing back home and he died on Politicians worried the spot,” a local intelligence official said. The Pakistani Taliban condemned the killing about security and denied any involvement by the umbrella Tehreek-e- Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fac- as elections near tion. “He was a good reporter and serving tribal people, we PESHAWAR: As Pakistan prepares for the salute his services,” they said. upcoming general election, politicians and workers of political parties are concerned National drive against about security at public meetings and rallies likely to start next month. 300,000 tax evaders After police and security forces, political KARACHI: Pakistan’s leaders and workers remained the second Federal Board of Revenue prime target of suicide bombers, blasts and (FBR) will launch a coun- rocketing by militants during the past many trywide tax recovery drive years. Public meetings even inside the bound- against 300,000 rich people ary walls are feared to be more prone to from March 1, an official said attacks. yesterday. The FBR is facing Political activists from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa shortfall in revenue collection and Federally Administered Tribal Areas are target for the current fiscal more worried about law and order during elec- year, which has been raised tion campaigns. to Rs2,190bn from Rs2,381bn. Chief Minister Haider Hoti recently sur- FBR had been considering vived a suicide attack while on his way to an amnesty scheme, which a public meeting in Mardan. He escaped according to it, would help a bombing last year in Nowshera after his achieve the target through helicopter took off after attending a public collection of an additional meeting. Rs250bn. But the government Politicians are looking for adequate security decided to shelve the scheme. ahead of electioneering. One can recall the Children play on a water pipe in the main sewerage area in Lahore, yesterday. Sources said FBR had selected sense of insecurity among political activists 300,000 super rich people of during the last election in February 2008. the identified 3.6 million. FBR Two days before the polling, a suicide bomber does not have the capability to targeted the election office of PPP candidate Pakistan launches first climate change policy take action against the tax- Riaz Hussain in Parachinar. Sixty-one people payers in one go, they said. were killed and scores wounded. ISLAMABAD: Pakistan might be in a health, disaster preparedness, transport And implementation is the biggest chal- Hussain survived the bombing, but fell vic- position to boast its very first national and energy. lenge the policy faces. Moderate quake hits tim to target killing in Peshawar last month. climate change policy but the road to Measures include flood forecasting Mujtaba Hussain, Deputy Secretary at In February 2008, 36 people were killed and effective implementation is long and warning systems, local rainwater har- the ministry, said policy implementation Pakistan cities over 50 injured when a powerful bomb ripped arduous. vesting, developing new varieties of resil- committees will be formed at the federal ISLAMABAD: A moderate through on election rally of the ANP in Nahqi The policy, which has been launched ient crops, health impact assessment of and provincial levels. There are a variety earthquake measuring 4.6 on village of Shabqadar tehsil in Charsadda. by the Ministry of Climate Change in changing weather patterns, promotion of of financing options available for projects the Richter scale jolted several Senior ANP leaders, including its provincial Islamabad, provides a framework for renewable energy sources and efficient under the climate change policy such as cities in southwest Pakistan head Afrasiab Khattak, Bashir Umarzai and coping with the threats of global warm- mass transport systems. the international Green Climate Fund early yesterday. The tremor Lawangin Khan and others, escaped unhurt. ing through adaptation and mitigation Now that the policy has been launched, which aims to raise $100bn for environ- hits parts of Quetta, Sibi and Most heads of political parties from Khyber measures. the relevant ministries and departments mental projects worldwide by 2020. Bolan districts of Baluchistan Pakhtunkhwa have faced suicide bombings or The policy focuses on the development as well as provincial and local govern- A National Climate Change Fund will province. No casualties were other attacks while attending public meetings. sectors such as water resources, agri- ments will come up with their strategies also be formed. reported. AGENCIES INTERNEWS culture and livestock, forestry, human and plans to get to work. INTERNEWS THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 14 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com INDIA Parliamentary Pristine sight panel to probe copter deal Opposition walks out over move

NEW DELHI: A joint parlia- Rajya Sabha and 20 from the Lok mentary committee (JPC) will Sabha. probe the purchase of 12 VVIP He said the JPC will inquire helicopters, it was decided while into the alleged payment of bribes Defence Minister A K Antony in the deal and role of middle- yesterday promised to pun- men. The minister said the JPC ish the guilty for the alleged will give its report within three kickbacks. The opposition par- months of its first sitting. ties, however, walked out of the Communist Party of India Rajya Sabha over the issue. leader D Raja said the BJP and The motion to set up the joint several other parties had walked parliamentary committee was out and it was not fair to take adopted in the Rajya Sabha after a vote. it was moved by Parliamentary However, Deputy Chairman P J Affairs Minister Kamal Nath at Kurien said the motion had been the end of a short-duration dis- moved and took a voice vote. He cussion on the $750m deal for then announced that it had been helicopters with AgustaWestland passed by the House. by the defence ministry. The Rajya Sabha earlier saw a The move to set up the JPC fierce debate with the BJP mem- was opposed by several opposition bers accusing the government parties, including the Bharatiya of inaction despite information Janata Party, Telugu Desam about alleged kickbacks being Party, Janata Dal-United and the in the public domain for almost Trinamool Congress. a year. Fresh snowfall in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, yesterday. Rain and snow has been forecast during the next 18 hours. The Samajwadi Party and In his reply, Antony said the Bahujan Samaj Party, who support government will get to the root the United Progressive Alliance of scams involving public money (UPA) government from outside, and punish the guilty. backed the decision on the JPC. Antony said he felt ashamed Leader of Opposition Arun as a minister on any controversy Economy to grow over 6pc: Survey Jaitley said the JPC will be an surrounding the defence ministry. “exercise in futility” and its set- He said the ministry had acted ting up was a “diversionary tactic” on every complaint it received and NEW DELHI: Pushing for actions and reforms,” said the the economy,” he said. Rajan, a nearly half of the additions to the by the government. there was no cover-up. reforms and tangible action on survey, adding that India has former chief economist of the labour force till 2030 expected in He said what was needed was a Recalling the efforts made by removing bottlenecks to invest- navigated difficult times as these International Monetary Fund the 30-49 age group. proper case and custodial inter- his ministry to get details after ment and job creation, India’s before, and with good policies and (IMF), said a wide gap in upper “Because good jobs are both the rogation of people to get to the the controversy erupted last year, Economic Survey for 2012- strong reforms programme, it will and lower projections of the pathway to growth as well as the truth. “The JPC has none of these he said the Italian government 13 pegs the country’s growth again come through stronger. GDP growth was mainly due to best form of inclusion, India has powers.” informed that the investigations at 6.1-6.7 percent next fiscal, Authored by Chief Economic uncertainty prevailing in the to think of ways of enabling their Defending the government’s were at a preliminary stage and with inflation easing soon to Advisor Raghuram Rajan, the economy. creation,” says the survey, add- decision, Kamal Nath said the were shrouded in secrecy. 6.2-6.6 percent. report card on the state of the “Given the uncertainty, we are ing new jobs are currently being JPC will monitor the investiga- He said the CBI team that went The survey released hours economy, with recommendations giving wider band,” he said. added mainly in informal and low tions of the Central Bureau of to Italy met the prosecutors and ahead of the annual budget said for the way forward, was tabled in The survey also pushed for productivity sectors. Investigation (CBI) and accused the judge in the case and were India is likely to meet the fiscal parliament by Finance Minister fast action on the ground after Coming a day ahead of the gen- the BJP-led National Democratic told of the secrecy clause. deficit target of 5.3 percent of the P Chidambaram yesterday, a day the opening up of the retail trade eral budget, the survey also calls Alliance of “running away Antony said the Italian author- gross domestic product (GDP) in ahead of the national budget for industry to overseas companies for widening the tax base and pri- from JPC.” ities will complete their inquiry in the financial year that ends on 2013-14. and said this will not just pave the oritisation of expenditure, holding “It is nothing but plain politics,” the coming months. March 31. Addressing a media conference way for flow of investment in new them as the key ingredients to a he added. The minister said The forecast came against the after release of the survey, Rajan technology, but also for marketing credible medium-term fiscal con- Kamal Nath said the opposition AgustaWestland had denied any backdrop of a deceleration in said Indian economy was at a of farm produce in India. solidation plan. had not allowed an entire session wrongdoing in its reply to the growth to around 5 percent and “turning point” and the macro- “Fast agricultural growth “The policy recommenda- to function over its demand for a ministry’s show cause notice but 6.2 percent in the previous two economic situation would improve remains vital for jobs, incomes tions of the Survey focus largely JPC on the 2G spectrum contro- the government was not con- fiscals from 9.3 percent and 8.6 in the next financial year, helped and food security.” on stimulating investments and versy and was now opposing the vinced. He said the government percent in the two fiscals before by moderate inflation and better In the survey, a special chap- reducing supply bottlenecks par- move on the chopper deal. will take the strongest action in that, induced largely by the global external factors. ter has been added focusing on ticularly in the agricultural sec- Moving the motion, Kamal keeping with the integrity agree- slowdown and financial crisis. “India is in a difficult but not jobs that says the future holds tor,” the Confederation of Indian Nath said the JPC will have 30 ment after getting a report from “The slowdown is a wake-up impossible situation...we are at promise for India if it seizes Industry said in a statement. members, including 10 from the the CBI. IANS call for increasing the pace of or beyond the turning point of the demographic dividend, with IANS

Protest against rape Political Lanka should devolve violence in more powers: Delhi

Maharashtra NEW DELHI: India made it about not the 13th amendment clear yesterday that Sri Lanka but 13th amendment plus,” he MUMBAI: Tension triggered will have to devolve more pow- said, using an official jargon to by an incident of stone-pelting ers to its provinces so as to mean India expects Sri Lanka to at Raj Thackeray’s convoy led to empower the Tamil minority. do more than what it has pledged violence by his MNS party activ- Speaking at the end of a vis-a-vis devolution of powers. ists who yesterday torched pub- charged debate on “war crimes” He pointed out that India was lic and private vehicles, including in Sri Lanka, External Affairs also in touch with Tamil parties ambulances, and attacked NCP Minister Salman Khurshid, how- in Sri Lanka. offices across Maharashtra. ever, declined to reveal how India When Tamil MPs quoted Nationalist Congress Party will vote next month at the UN Sri Lankan Defence Secretary (NCP) activists allegedly meet on human rights in Geneva. Gotabaya Rajapaksa as saying threw stones at vehicles of Raj While reiterating that India that the 13th amendment was Thackeray’s convoy early on wanted a united Sri Lanka, history, Khurshid said there Tuesday at Ahmednagar and Khurshid told the Rajya Sabha were many views and “we should waved black flags at the MNS that it was vital that Tamils not assume this as the final” chief when his car passed. should be treated “as honourable official view. In retaliation, activists of citizens” and enjoy justice and “Within the range of diplomacy, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena devolved powers. we have been told time and again (MNS) targeted NCP offices in The minister was repeatedly that the 13th amendment (will be south Mumbai and suburbs, as interrupted by members from implemented).” well as Ahmednagar, Nanded, Tamil Nadu who charged Sri Carefully steering away from Akola, Yavatmal, Parbhani, Thane Police detain activists of the Republican Party of India, protesting against the rape and killing of three young Lanka with committing “war any condemnation of Sri Lanka, and damaged private and public sisters earlier in the month in Maharashtra, in Mumbai, yesterday. crimes” in the final stages of the he said the world had seen “very vehicles. conflict that crushed the Tamil sad, very moving, very tragic” “It (the attack) was pre- Tigers in 2009. scenes — an obvious reference to planned. The police remained But Khurshid hastened to add the civilian suffering that marked mute spectators. But for the pres- that he could not agree with the war there. ence of the police, it could have Baby in US foster care comes home AIADMK’s V Maitreyan who “That is the reason we have been even worse,” Raj Thackeray described Sri Lanka as “an enemy engaged with Sri Lanka,” he said, told reporters last evening in country” of the Tamils. The min- adding that it was “very impor- Ahmednagar after he emerged KOLKATA: Nearly six months who was granted his custody by a to return the child to Basak. ister’s comment only drew more tant” that Colombo displayed from a meeting with his party after being taken into custody New Jersey court. While allowing repatriation of vocal protests. accountability. But he underlined office-bearers. In an unexpected by the United States Child “We are so happy to have him Indrashish, the local court also On Colombo’s much promised that such accountability should move, cousin and Shiv Sena chief Protection Services for alleged back. There was no neglect on the dismissed the case filed against devolution of powers to its prov- come from within, rather than Uddhav Thackeray rushed to Raj’s neglect by parents, one-and-a- part of his parents. We strongly his parents by the New Jersey inces and by extension to the from outside. “When accountabil- support, terming the attack on half-year-old Indrashish, son feel the US authorities needlessly Child Protection Services. Tamils, Khurshid stood firm. ity comes from within, there is a the latter’s convoy as “unwar- of an Indian couple in the US, took away the child from his par- After Debashish and Pamela Sri Lanka cannot evade its greater chance of sustainability.” ranted”, and challenged the NCP returned to the city yesterday. ents,” said Basak. Saha landed at the Parsippany responsibility of devolving, under The minister also declined to step out of the Democratic The baby arrived at the Indrashish was taken into pro- township of New Jersey along the India-sponsored 13th amend- to say if India will vote for the Front government. NCP leader Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose tective custody by the US authori- with their son in July last year, ment of its constitution, powers to US-sponsored resolution at the and state Deputy Chief Minister International Airport with his ties after the child suffered a head the child fell down from a bed its provinces, including the north- UNHCR meet in Geneva next Ajit Pawar said the MNS has uncle Bhaskar Kundu and was injury on August 9. and sustained serious head east, the former war zone. month pulling up Sri Lanka for always played “emotional politics.” handed over to Pragati Basak — Earlier this month, a court injuries. “In all our official interactions, human rights abuses and for lack IANS the child’s maternal grandmother, in New Jersey directed them IANS we have actually been talking of political reconciliation. IANS THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 INDIA www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 15 Need for better 19 killed in Kolkata market blaze

KOLKATA: At least 19 peo- ple were killed in a devastating blaze at a market complex in the transportation eastern metropolis yesterday. According to witnesses, the massive fire in the densely-popu- lated Sealdah area began around system: Study 3:50am in the mezzanine floor of a multi-storey Surya Sen Market building and leapt up to the first and second floors where most of the victims were sleeping. Plan and act now, says expert Hinting at a probable “sabo- tage”, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee ordered an NEW DELHI: The second recommends changes in existing inquiry into the tragedy. phase of Jawaharlal Nehru policies and programmes related The steady stream of soot- National Urban Renewal to urban transport. The study was smeared bodies being taken Mission, that is slated to begin supported by Shakti Sustainable out of the fire-ravaged building next year, must focus on sus- Energy Foundation, an organi- bore an eerie resemblance to the tainable and environment- sation that works in the clean AMRI Hospital fire tragedy on friendly transportation to keep energy policy space. December 9, 2011, where too a Indian cities healthy, experts “India is experiencing urbani- pre-dawn blaze choked to death maintain. sation at a scale it has never expe- 94 people, mostly critically ill “Our transportation system is rienced before. The only way to patients. not sustainable. We are already keep our cities healthy and pro- If Fire Services Minister Javed facing a lot of problems. In the ductive is by integrating land Khan put the blame of the fire coming years it is going to worsen. use with transport,” said Himani on the “illegal building con- We must plan and act now,” said Jain, programme manager, trans- structed during erstwhile Left Amit Bhatt, strategy head for port, Shakti Sustainable Energy Front regime”, Banerjee sniffed urban transport at Embarq India, Foundation. a “conspiracy”. a non-profit organisation. Bhatt, who is one of the authors “Why has this incident hap- Bhatt, whose organisation of the study, said the report had pened? There are so many works with local transport made some concrete recommen- inflammable objects there (in the authorities for the development dations to improve the urban market) that if anybody inten- of environment-friendly trans- transport system. tionally lit a small fire, it could port systems, said a lot of money “We have submitted our recom- turn into a major fire. There could was spent on building roads and mendations to the urban devel- be (a) conspiracy, sabotage. The flyovers earlier, but it was not cre- opment ministry as well as the probe will look into all aspects,” Firefighters try to put out the blaze at a multi-storey market complex in Kolkata, yesterday. ating a sustainable system. Planning Commission,” Bhatt the chief minister said. According to him, the desired said, hoping that some of the sug- Banerjee also announced a results were not achieved in the gestions would be incorporated in compensation of Rs200,000 Banerjee even faced attack way but to beg now,” said a chem- “Some of them were charred to first phase of the the urban devel- government’s policies especially in each to the kin of the dead and from two disgruntled party mem- ist shop owner. Similar was the death, but a majority of them died opment ministry’s flagship pro- the second phase of the mission. Rs50,000 for the injured. bers who lashed out at their own story of over 50 families who lost due to suffocation,” said a doctor. gramme that ran from 2007 to Bhatt said the emphasis should As 26 fire tenders battled to Trinamool Congress government. their livelihood in the blaze which As the bodies were brought 2012. More than 60 percent of the be on the use of non-motorised douse the flames, politicians got If rebel MP Kabir Suman took more than nine hours to be to a morgue after post-mortem, $20bn under the first phase was transport. busy playing the blame game and accused the government of not put out. family members cried inconsol- spent on flyovers and roads. He pointed out that only 10 pointing fingers at rivals. learning lessons despite repeated Like most tragedies, this one ably while Banerjee ensured that “Whatever has been done is not percent of the 16.31 million of “Why is the Trinamool tragedies, party legislator from too threw up heroes who dis- the bodies were promptly handed sustainable. We would want to Delhi’s population owns cars. “We (Congress) government blam- Chowringhee, Sikha Mitra, played extraordinary courage and over to the kin. see the programme to be focused need to think about the majority ing the former government? The claimed she had warned of an staked their lives to save others. While 15 of the dead have been on helping the mobility of people of the population which doesn’t tragedy has happened during impending fire tragedy in the area Braving thick smoke and rag- identified, identity of four bodies and not the vehicles,” he said of own cars. The focus should be on their rule and they are respon- but no one paid heed. ing fire, many broke windowpanes is yet to be established. the mission that was launched providing proper transportation sible for it,” Congress MP Deepa The fire not only claimed and doors to save the trapped This is the third major fire in by Prime Minister Manmohan system to them.” Dasmunsi said. breadwinners of 19 families but people and materials. the city in three years. Singh as a fully-funded govern- With increasing urbanisation, Opposition Left Front too also snatched away livelihood of Doctors at N R S Medical On March 23, 2010, a blaze in ment scheme. the problems related to transpor- joined in, asking the state gov- many. “I had stocked medicines College and Hospital and Calcutta the iconic Stephen Court build- Embarq India recently released tation was going to worsen in the ernment not to indulge in blame worth over Rs2.5m there. All Medical College where the fire ing in Park Street snuffed out 43 a study — “National investment coming years, Bhatt said. game and try gaining mileage that is gone now. I’m completely victims were taken to, said most lives. in Urban Transport” — that IANS from the tragic incident. ruined. My family has no other died due to suffocation. IANS

President meets Iran delegation Missile test ranges planned in Andhra, Children with genetic Andamans illnesses seek help NEW DELHI: India’s Defence Research and Development NEW DELHI: Around 100 years ago. Some participants Organisation (DRDO) will children from across the coun- complained that delayed treat- set up missile test ranges in try suffering from rare genetic ment made the disease incurable Andaman and Nicobar Islands disorders yesterday partici- in their case and they don’t want and Andhra Pradesh and the pated in a silent march to appeal this to happen to other patients in process has been initiated to to Prime Minister Manmohan the nascent stage. “Due to igno- acquire land, the government Singh to provide them with rance, my family members did not said yesterday. financial aid and better treat- consult a doctor before I was 16, Defence Minister A K Antony ment facilities. and they noticed that my growth told the Rajya Sabha that the Children suffering from had stunted,” said Dharmendra. DRDO had proposed to set up Lysosomal Storage Disorders “When I met the doctors at a missile test range each at (LSDs), a group of around 45 AIIMS here, they took around Rutland Island in Andaman and rare genetic disorders of which two years to conduct tests only Nicobar Islands and Nagayalanka five are treatable, participated in to say that there is no treatment in Krishna district of Andhra the march at Jantar Mantar. for my disease. I don’t want that Pradesh. According to sufferers, due to to happen to my brother, who “Both the projects for setting lack of funds and government is also suffering from the same up of the missile test ranges are aid, even those children who can diseases which are in a nascent at the initial planning stages and be treated, continue to suffer as stage,” added Dharmendra. land acquisition process is on,” he their families are not able to bear Sib Shankar Chowdhury, said. the cost. “I know my son can lead secretary, Lysosomal Storage “These projects would be sanc- a better life, if not a normal one, Disorder Support Society, said tioned after the proposals are provided he is treated on time,” despite detection of the dis- cleared by the ministry of envi- said Raj Kumar Yadav, a farmer ease, these people are not ronment and forests and the rev- from Bihar, whose six-year-old getting timely treatment. enue authorities,” he said. President Pranab Mukherjee greets members of an Iranian delegation led by Speaker of the Islamic Consultative son was diagnosed with LSD three IANS IANS Assembly, Ali Larijani, during a courtesy call in New Delhi, yesterday. Five-year-old girl raped in Delhi Britain-based Indian gets million-dollar TED Prize NEW DELHI: A five-year-old girl was abducted and raped LONG BEACH, What the physicist-turned- receive a TED Prize since the jobs, government posts or the like. by two unidentified men here, CALIFORNIA: Sugata Mitra educator seemingly stumbled cash award was increased tenfold As technology frees people police said yesterday. (pictured) on Tuesday was upon was a way of teaching chil- to a million dollars. from offices and creates jobs yet The incident was reported from awarded a million-dollar TED dren better suited for workplaces, The award also comes with the to be imagined, it is time to let east Delhi’s New Seemapuri area Prize to pursue the promise of cultures and economies increas- ability to tap into the abilities, children learn in ways that let Tuesday afternoon. building schools in the Internet ingly driven by fast-changing insights and influence of a TED them pursue and embrace new “The girl was playing outside cloud where young minds can technology. community devoted to the idea of ideas, he argues. her home when two unidenti- learn unfettered by grown-ups. His experiment was reproduced “ideas worth spreading.” “There may be ten different fied bike-borne men abducted Mitra’s journey to the pres- in an array of countries and com- TED members include Nobel ways to produce the next genera- her. They took her to an isolated tigious TED gathering in the munities with the same result: Prize winners, successful entre- tion,” Mitra said. “I think I have place and raped her,” said a police Southern California city of Long children can drive their own preneurs such as Bill Gates and touched the tip of one of those officer. Beach began more than a decade educations if provided access to the Google founders; renowned icebergs.” Mitra’s plans for tap- Later, the attackers escaped ago in Delhi, when he stuck a the Internet and nudged by adults political figures, including former ping into the TED community from the spot and left the child computer in a hole in a slum wall who also stay out of the way. US vice president Al Gore, and include asking for help getting in a pool of blood. to see what the children would do. “They can cluster around the film and music stars. solar power for his lab and calling “The girl was later spotted by “I left it to the wolves, so machine, then you sit back and Mitra, a university professor will be on-site to keep watch. for help in the event of trouble. some people at around 1.30pm to speak, knowing it would be watch,” Mitra said of self-guided in Britain, said the prize money “I want to see if this is feasi- “Sugata has not only created (Tuesday). They informed the smashed open and sold,” Mitra learning. would fund a learning lab in India ble,” Mitra said. “If it works, it a remarkable body of research police. The police immediately said of that day in 1999. “The more you ask them to sit devoted to perfecting a formula will level the playing field.” around self-directed learning, took the girl to a hospital where “Eight hours later I came back quietly in rows and columns, that for the School in the Cloud. Mitra reasons that the tradi- but he has support from teachers she is recuperating,” added the to find them browsing the Internet is when the fights break out,” he Classes will be overseen by a tional focus in schools on reading, around the world who are tapping officer. in English,” he recalled. “I realised said in a reference to traditional global network of retired teach- writing, and arithmetic comes into his methodology with great The medical examination con- I had accidentally stumbled onto classroom set-ups. ers who connect with classes by from a time when societies were success,” said TED Prize director firmed rape. IANS something universal.” Mitra was the first person to online video chats, but an adult cranking out workers for office Lara Stein. AFP THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 16 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MORNING BREAK

PRAYER TIME Google Glass offered for News in Numbers LITERACY RATE

Fajr (Dawn) 4:42 $16,000 on eBay Shorook (Sunrise) 5:58 NEW YORK: Got $16,000 or Zuhr (Noon) 11:47 so? If you have, and were quick Asr (Afternoon) 3:06 enough, you might have been able to get hold of a pair of Maghrib (Sunset) 5:36 Google’s “Glass” systems, which Isha (Night) 7:06 you wear like glasses and can shoot hands-free video, take VP Kammutty pictures, and offer directions — via the auction site eBay. WEATHER Although Google Glass won’t go on sale to the public until the Today Thursday Friday Weather end of this year, with a price Conditions: tag expected to be above $1,500, Partly cloudy Partly cloudy Clear the search giant has said it will Misty to foggy invite some people to take part in The State of Qatar had accomplished at first becomes a seeding programme to see how High: 25° High: 26° High: 27° fine to hazy. ordinary users use the device, this goal since 2008 and before the Low: 19° Low: 21° Low: 21° which can connect via Bluetooth to an iPhone or Android phone to target date of 2015. get data connectivity. And one person in Cleveland, Ohio, was claiming to have a pair DOHA - SUN & SEA of the glasses which were up for auction. According to the site, they Progress of literacy rate (1986 to 2011) SUN TIDE SEA would have been available some SUNRISE | SUNSET HIGH | LOW WIND time between Monday (March 4) 100 05:59 17:32 06:30&18:45 13:45 03-12/15 KT and Thursday (March 7), and at the time of writing the bidding had 99 hit $15,900, having started at $1,500 THE REGION TODAY TOMORROW on February 21. 98 The seller said (all errors are as 97 HI/LO WEATHER HI/LO WEATHER written in the listing): “I’ve been 96 MUSCAT 26/20 Partly cloudy 26/20 Partly cloudy selected as an early adapter for 95 MAKKAH 33/22 Partly cloudy 32/22 Clear Google’s upcoming release. You are buying a brand new unopened pair KUWAIT 23/17 Partly cloudy 25/18 Partly cloudy 94 of Google’s Project Glass glasses. BAHRAIN 24/19 Partly cloudy 25/20 Clear I will be personally attending and 93 SANAA 27/08 Clear 28/09 Clear picking up my pair in either Los 92 RIYADH 29/15 Mostly cloudy 32/18 Partly cloudy Angeles, or New York at Google’s 1986 1997 2001 2004 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2015 DUBAI 27/19 Clear 29/20 Clear Project Glass launch event, which BAGHDAD 24/13 Partly cloudy 22/11 Partly cloudy will take place some time after Target indicator The current cursor Feburary 27. As for what colours 300 will actually be available, will vary,   THE WORLD TODAY TOMORROW         if I am offered a choice, I will choose 250 HI/LO WEATHER HI/LO WEATHER the colour of your choice. My cost to buy my glasses is $1,500, so 200 ATHENS 11/08 Clear 14/09 Partly cloudy obviously that’s where I’ve started           WASHINGTON 13/03 Chance of rain 07/02 Partly cloudy the auction at. Project Glass will 150Sources : http://www.qtel.qa/ SYDNEY 28/19 Chance of storm 20/17 Rain be shipped with insurance at my LONDON 08/00 Chance of rain 07/-1 Mostly cloudy expence, and signature upon deliv- 100 PARIS 07/00 Chance of rain 07/-1 Mostly cloudy ery, so please use an address you 50   ISTANBUL 06/00 Rain 08/03 Cloudy can accept delivery in person.”         MANILA 34/22 Clear 34/22 Partly cloudy Whether the terms of Google’s 0 DHAKA 34/19 Clear 33/17 Clear programme will allow the par- 1986 1997 2001 2004 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 DELHI 25/12 Clear 23/11 Clear ticipants to resell the devices isn’t clear. But it suggests there’s inter- Males Females Total ISLAMABAD 19/07 Chance of rain 21/09 Clear Source : http://www.qsa.gov.qa/ est in the new wearable computing product. GUARDIAN NEWS Thursday 28 February 2013 18 Rabial II 1434 Volume 17 Number 5624 Price: QR2

Credible data key to energy investment

Business | 23

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Qatar’s investment in Britain totals QR124bn QBA hosts delegation led by London Mayor

DOHA: Qatari investments witness rapid development, Nabil Abu Issa, and Maqbool in the United Kingdom have and an increase in bilateral Habib Khalfan, in addition to increased yearly, and amounted investments. The volume of Sarah Abdallah, QBA Deputy over QR124bn as the energy- trade exchange has registered a General Manager. rich Gulf State owns several rapid growth and reached £7bn Gifford thanked Dr Khalid companies and investments (QR38.5bn) during six months, and QBA members for the warm in Britain, including stores particularly between January welcome and explained the goal of “Harrods”, and 26 percent of the and July 2012, according to the his visit which aims at discussing shares of stores “Sainsbury”, statement. opportunities for enhancing trade a statement issued by Qatari In addition, Qatar Investment cooperation and the development Businessmen’s Association Authority also owns 20 percent of bilateral relations for the ben- (QBA) said yesterday. of the “Camden Market” in north efit of both countries. Dr Sheikh Khalid bin Thani London through its stake in the He expressed the importance Al Thani, Second Deputy to the real estate investments company of the Qatari market for British Chairman of Qatari Businessmen “Chelsfield”, and 95 percent of the companies, with increased invest- Association, yesterday hosted a Shard Tower, which is the tallest ment opportunities with the senior British delegation headed building in Western Europe and giant development plan adopted by Lord Alderman Roger Gifford, is characterised by its strategic by Qatar, in addition to the main the Mayor of the City of London, location overlooking the Thames goal of developing the infrastruc- in the presence of British River. ture and diversifying country’s Ambassador Michael O’Neill The Business Luncheon with economy away from the oil and Dr Sheikh Khalid bin Thani Al Thani, Second Deputy to the Chairman of Qatari Businessmen Association, with and accompanying guests that the UK delegation was attended gas sector. Lord Alderman Roger Gifford, the Mayor of London, yesterday. included Sherrif Jeffrey Evans by QBA board members Sheikh Welcoming the British delega- and Colonel Billy King Harman Hamad bin Faisal Al Thani, tion, Sheikh Khalid noted that of Qatari investments in the UK. growth of Qatar’s economy and including the oil and gas related, , at Sheikh Khalid’s Majlis at Al Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser Al the Qatari–British relations QBA members discussed with seize investment opportunities in which have been present in the Gharrafa. Thani, Sherida Saad Jubran Al have strengthened significantly the British counterparts the need the state, while considering the state since decades. The Qatari-British relations Kaabi, Dr Hussein Al Abdullah, in recent years with the increase to take advantage of the rapid experiences of British companies, THE PENINSULA Notice to Shareholders Industries Qatar Q.S.C. We are pleased to invite you to attend the company’s Annual Ordinary and Extraordinary General Assembly Meetings to be held on Sunday, March 17th, 2013 at 6:30 pm in Al-Wajba Ballroom, Intercontinental Hotel - Doha. In the case that a quorum is not met, a second meeting will be held on Sunday, March 24th, 2013 at the same time and location.

Agenda of the Ordinary General Assembly Meeting Agenda of the Extraordinary General Assembly Meeting

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FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT WWW.IQ.COM.QA OR EMAIL US AT: [email protected] Industries Qatar Q.S.C.

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT TO THE SHAREHOLDERS OF INDUSTRIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS QATAR Q.S.C. AT 31 DECEMBER 2012 AT 31 DECEMBER 2012

1 CORPORATE INFORMATION Report on the consolidated financial statements 2012 2011 We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Industries Qatar Notes QR’000 QR’000 Industries Qatar Q.S.C. (the “Company” or “IQ”) is a public shareholding company, incorporated in the State of Q.S.C. (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries and jointly controlled entities (together referred as Qatar on 19 April 2003, in accordance with Article No. 68 of the Qatar Commercial Companies Law No. 5 of the “Group”) which comprise the consolidated statement of financial position as at 31 ASSETS year 2002, for a 50 year term by resolution No. 33 of 2003 from the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Non-current assets December 2012 and the consolidated statement of income, consolidated statement of State of Qatar. The Company’s shares are listed on the Qatar Exchange (QE). The Company’s registered office is Property, plant and equipment 11 22,317,930 9,589,230 situated in Doha, State of Qatar. comprehensive income, consolidated statement of cash flows and consolidated statement of Projects under development 12 - 11,905,716 changes in equity for the year then ended, and a summary of significant accounting policies Investment properties 13 148,032 133,229 IQ, its subsidiaries and jointly controlled entities (together “the Group”) operates in the State of Qatar and in the and other explanatory information. Intangible assets 14 162,973 169,250 Jebel Ali Free Zone in the United Arab Emirates. Investment in associates 15 1,465,515 1,742,821 The main activity of IQ is to act as a holding company. The structure of the Group, included in these consolidated Management’s Responsibility for the Consolidated Financial Statements Available-for-sale investments 16 641,441 674,924 Catalysts 89,444 106,886 financial statements are as follows: Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated Other non-current assets 2,818 2,509 financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, and for Country of Entity Name incorporation Relationship Ownership interest such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of 24,828,153 24,324,565 consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to 2012 2011 Current assets fraud or error. Inventories 17 2,295,002 2,230,641 Qatar Steel Company Q.S.C. Qatar Subsidiary 100% 100% Accounts receivable and prepayments 18 3,016,135 2,665,175 Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO) Q.S.C. Qatar Joint venture 80% 80% Auditors’ Responsibility Due from related parties 27 984,046 593,734 Qatar Fertiliser Company Q.S.C.C. Qatar Joint venture 75% 75% Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on Held-for-trading investments 19 7,154 4,141 Qatar Fuel Additives Company Limited Q.S.C.C. Qatar Joint venture 50% 50% our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing. Bank balances and cash 20 9,080,209 6,960,094 Fereej Real Estate Company Q.S.C. (Note 29) Qatar Joint venture - 34% Those standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the 15,382,546 12,453,785 Qatar Steel Company Q.S.C. (“QATAR STEEL”), is a Qatari Shareholding Company incorporated in audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are the State of Qatar and is wholly owned by IQ. The company is engaged in the manufacture of steel billets free from material misstatement. TOTAL ASSETS 40,210,699 36,778,350 and reinforcing bars for sale in the domestic and export markets. QATAR STEEL incorporated Qatar Steel Company FZE, a fully owned subsidiary with limited liability An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and EQUITY AND LIABILITIES disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the on 22 July 2003, pursuant to Dubai Law No. 9 of 1992 and implementing the regulations of the Jebel Ali Equity Free Zone Authority. auditors’ judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the Share capital 21 5,500,000 5,500,000 consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk Legal reserve 22 292,117 276,791 Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO) Q.S.C. (“QAPCO”), a Qatari Shareholding Company assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair Cumulative changes in fair value 279,892 314,711 incorporated in the State of Qatar, is a joint venture between IQ (80%) and Total Petrochemicals (France) presentation of the consolidated financial statements in order to design audit procedures that Hedging reserve (559,576) (589,402) (TPF) (20%). QAPCO is engaged in the production and sale of ethylene, polyethylene, hexane and other are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the Retained earnings 24,821,978 20,734,623 petrochemical products. effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the Equity attributable to the parent 30,334,411 26,236,723 Qatofin Company Limited (Q.S.C.) (“QATOFIN”), a Qatari Shareholding Company incorporated in appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates Non-controlling interest 361,783 394,610 the State of Qatar in August 2005, is a joint venture between QAPCO (63%), TPF 36% and Qatar made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated Petroleum (QP)1%. Qatofin is engaged in the production of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). financial statements. Total equity 30,696,194 26,631,333 Qatofin also owns 45.69% interest in Ras Laffan Olefins Company (RLOC), a joint venture between Q- Chem II, Qatofin and QP. Ras Laffan Olefins Company is involved in the production of ethylene. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a LIABILITIES Non-current liabilities basis for our audit opinion. Qatar Vinyl Company Limited (Q.S.C.) (“QVC”) is registered in the State of Qatar as a Qatari Interest bearing loans and borrowings 24 3,952,534 5,535,140 Shareholding Company and is engaged in the production of caustics soda, ethylene dichloride and vinyl Opinion Employees’ end of service benefits 25 240,733 219,877 chloride monomer. QAPCO owns 31.9% of Qatar Vinyl Company Limited (Q.S.C.). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the Other financial liabilities 28 421,935 455,962 financial position of the Group as at 31 December 2012 and its financial performance and its Qatar Plastic Products Company W.L.L. (“QPPC”) is registered as a limited liability company in the 4,615,202 6,210,979 State of Qatar and is engaged in the manufacturing of plastic heavy-duty bags, sheet and industrial cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting products. QAPCO owns 33.33% of the shareholding in Qatar Plastic Products Company W.L.L. Standards. Current liabilities Report on legal and other requirements Accounts payable and accruals 26 1,885,135 1,384,261 Qatar Fertiliser Company (Q.S.C.C.) (“QAFCO”), a Qatari Shareholding Company incorporated in the Furthermore, in our opinion, proper books of account have been kept by the Company, an Due to related parties 27 979,900 1,109,232 State of Qatar, is a joint venture between IQ (75%) and Yara Netherland BV (25%). QAFCO is engaged inventory count has been conducted in accordance with established principles, and the nancial Other financial liabilities 28 111,384 115,215 in the production and sale of ammonia and urea. Interest bearing loans and borrowings 24 1,922,884 1,327,330 statements comply with the Qatar Commercial Companies' Law No. 5 of 2002 and the QAFCO has ownership interest in Gulf Formaldehyde Company (S.A.Q.) ("GFC"), a Qatari Shareholding Company's Articles of Association. We have obtained all the information and explanations we 4,899,303 3,936,038 Company incorporated in the State of Qatar on 3 March 2003. QAFCO holds 70% of the share capital of required for the purpose of our audit, and are not aware of any violations of the above mentioned this subsidiary.

law or the Articles of Association having occurred during the year which might have had a Total liabilities 9,514,505 10,147,017 QAFCO has ownership interest in Qatar Melamine Company (Q.S.C.C.) (“Qatar Melamine”), a Qatari material effect on the business of the Company or its nancial position. We further rm that Shareholding Company incorporated in the State of Qatar on 6 March 2011. QAFCO holds 60% of the TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 40,210,699 36,778,350 the nancial information included in the Annual Report of the Board of Directors is in agreement share capital of this subsidiary. Qatar Melamine is engaged in the production and sale of Melamine. with the books and records of the Company. Qatar Fuel Additives Company Limited Q.S.C. (“QAFAC”), a Qatari Shareholding Company incorporated in the State of Qatar, is a joint venture between IQ (50%), OPIC Middle East Corporation (20%), International Octane Limited (15%) and 15% by LCY Middle East Corporation, a body corporate Ziad Nader formed under the laws of the British Virgins Islands. QAFAC is engaged in the production and export of of Ernst & Young methyl-tertiary-butyl-ether (MTBE) and methanol. Auditor's Registration No. 258 …...... ……………………………………… Dr. Mohammed Bin Saleh Al-Sada Hamad Rashid Al-Mohannadi Fereej Real Estate Company Q.S.C. (“Fereej”), a Qatari Shareholding Company incorporated in the State of Qatar in July 2008, is a joint venture between IQ (34%), Al Koot Insurance and Reinsurance Date: 21 February 2013 Minister of Energy and Industry Vice Chairman Chairman and Managing Director Company Q.S.C. (33%), and by Qatar Real Estate Investment Company Q.S.C. (33%). The Company is Doha engaged in real estate investment, properties management and property rental. On 17 August 2011, the Joint Venture’s Board of Directors have resolved and approved the voluntary dissolution of the Company. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS Please refer to Note 29 for additional disclosures. FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2012 FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2012 The consolidated financial statements of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2012 were authorised for issue by Chairman and the Vice Chairman on 21 February 2013. 2012 2011 Notes QR’000 QR’000

2012 2011 2 BASIS OF PREPARATION AND ACCOUNTING POLICIES Notes QR’000 QR’000 OPERATING ACTIVITIES Profit for the year 8,410,331 7,924,070 Adjustments for: 2.1 Basis of preparation Revenues 3 18,698,305 16,549,447 Depreciation and amortisation 1,091,206 673,511 The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for investment Provision for employees’ end of service benefits 25 62,125 62,871 properties, derivative financial instruments, available-for-sale and held-for-trading financial assets that have been Direct costs (8,813,722) (7,654,194) Provision/write off for obsolete and slow moving inventories 5,379 2,766 measured at fair value. The consolidated financial statements are presented in Qatari Riyals and all values are Loss on disposal of joint venture - 8,793 rounded to the nearest thousand (QR’000) except when otherwise indicated. (Gain)/loss on revaluation of investment properties 4 2,961 GROSS PROFIT 9,884,583 8,895,253 (14,803) Share of results from associates 15 139,633 (5,998) 2.2 Statement of compliance Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment 28,571 23,308 The consolidated financial statements of the Group have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Other income, net 4 239,837 228,345 Write-off of assets - 85,157 Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and applicable Income from investments 5 121,718 102,255 Finance costs 271,229 156,428 requirements of Qatar Commercial Companies’ Law No. 5 of 2002. General and administrative expenses 6 (895,999) (668,756) (Gain)/loss from change in fair value of held-for-trading securities 4 (1,523) 499 Selling expenses (276,402) (218,214) Interest income 5 (103,221) (80,849) Impairment of investment in an associate 150,000 - 2.3 Basis of consolidation Finance costs (271,229) (156,428) Impairment of available-for-sale investments 2,180 9,010 The consolidated financial statements comprise the financial statements of Industries Qatar Q.S.C. and its Impairment loss on investment in an associate 15 (150,000) - Amortisation of intangible assets – license 6,277 1,585 subsidiaries and jointly controlled entities as at 31 December 2012. Share of results of associates 15 (139,633) 5,998 Other expenses 7 (100,364) (246,580) 10,047,384 8,864,112 Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date of acquisition, being the date on which the Group obtains Impairment of available-for-sale investments (2,180) (9,010) Working capital changes: control, and continue to be consolidated until the date such control ceases. Loss on liquidation of investment in joint venture 29 - (8,793) Inventories (69,740) (397,360) Accounts receivable and prepayments and due from related parties (741,272) (521,538) Jointly controlled entities are proportionately consolidated from the date of acquisition, being the date in which Accounts payable and accruals and due to related parties 343,155 430,376 PROFIT FOR THE YEAR 9 8,410,331 7,924,070 the Group obtains joint control, and continue to be proportionately consolidated until the date that such joint Cash from operations 9,579,527 8,375,590 control ceases. Attributable to: Finance costs (271,229) (156,428) The financial statements of the subsidiaries and jointly controlled entities are prepared for the same reporting Equity holders of the parent 8,440,908 7,930,831 Employees’ end of service benefits paid 25 (41,269) (44,153) Contribution to social and sports fund (196,490) (133,877) period as the parent company, using consistent accounting policies. Non-controlling interest (30,577) (6,761) Net cash from operating activities 9,070,539 8,041,132 All intra-group balances, income and expenses and unrealised gains and losses resulting from intra-group 8,410,331 7,924,070 transactions and dividends are eliminated in full. INVESTING ACTIVITIES BASIC AND DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE 10 15.35 14.42 Proceeds from disposals of property, plant and equipment 327 4,178 Losses within a subsidiary are attributed to the non-controlling interest even if that results in a deficit balance. Additions to property, plant and equipment and projects under development (1,919,535) (2,866,132) (Expressed as QR per share) A change in the ownership interest of a subsidiary, without a loss of control, is accounted for as an equity Net movement in catalysts and other non-current assets (6,243) (4,001) transaction. If the Group loses control over a subsidiary, it: CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Increase in ownership/capital contribution in associates (13,577) (336,484) Investment in held-for-trading securities (1,490) (9,718)  FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2012 Net movement in available-for-sale investments (3,516) (39,494) Derecognises the assets (including goodwill) and liabilities of the subsidiary Proceeds from disposal of investments - 154,842  Derecognises the carrying amount of any non-controlling interest Movement in intangible assets - (43,228)  Derecognises the cumulative translation differences, recorded in equity 2012 2011 Movement in other non-current assets (309) (389)  Recognises the fair value of the consideration received Notes QR’000 QR’000 Dividends received from associates 5,000 5,000  Recognises the fair value of any investment retained Net movement in deposits maturing after 90 days (204,000) 163,295  Recognises any surplus or deficit in profit or loss Interest income received 103,221 80,849 Profit for the year 8,410,331 7,924,070  Reclassifies the parent’s share of components previously recognised in other comprehensive income to profit Net cash used in investing activities (1,672,827) (3,258,577) or loss or retained earnings, as appropriate. Other comprehensive income Net movement in fair value of cash flow hedges 37 29,826 (123,891) FINANCING ACTIVITIES Non-controlling interests represent the portion of profit or loss and net assets that is not held by the Group and are Net movement in fair value of available-for-sale investments 37 (34,819) (1,561) Repayment of interest bearing loans and borrowings (1,385,782) (679,623) presented separately in the consolidated statement of income, consolidated statement of comprehensive income Proceeds from interest bearing loans and borrowings 398,730 - and within equity in the consolidated statement of financial position, separately from parent shareholders’ equity. Non-controlling interest additional contribution - 390,000 Other comprehensive loss for the year (4,993) (125,452) Dividends paid (4,125,000) (3,025,000) 2.4 Changes in accounting policies and disclosures Dividends paid to non-controlling interests (2,250) (2,250) TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR 8,405,338 7,798,618 The accounting policies adopted are consistent with those of the previous financial year except for the following Net cash used in financing activities (3,316,873) (5,114,302) amendments effective for the annual period beginning on or after 1 January 2012 but were not relevant to the Attributable to: INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 2,283,410 1,465,682 Group’s operations: Equity holders of the parent 8,435,915 7,805,379 Non-controlling interest (30,577) (6,761) CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT 1 JANUARY 6,756,094 5,290,412  IAS 12 Income Taxes (Amendment) – Deferred Taxes: Recovery of Underlying Assets  IFRS 1 First-Time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (Amendment) – Severe 8,405,338 7,798,618 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT 31 DECEMBER 20 9,039,504 6,756,094 Hyperinflation and Removal of Fixed Dates for First-Time Adopters  IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures — Enhanced Derecognition Disclosure Requirements The attached notes 1 to 38 form part of these consolidated financial statements. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY Standards, amendments and interpretations issued but not yet effective The standards and interpretations that are not yet effective up to the date of issuance of the Group’s consolidated FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2012 financial statements which are relevant to the Group are listed below:

 Attributable to the equity holders of the parent IAS 1 Presentation of Items of Other Comprehensive Income – Amendments to IAS 1 (Effective 1 July 2012)  Cumulative Non- IAS 19 Employee Benefits (Revised) (Effective 1 January 2013)  Share Legal changes in Hedging Retained controlling IFRS 9 Financial Instruments: Classification and Measurement (Effective 1 January 2015)  capital reserve fair value reserve earnings Total interest Total IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement (Effective 1 January 2013)  IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements, IAS 27 Separate Financial Statements (Effective 1 January QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 2013)

 IFRS 11 Joint Arrangements (Effective 1 January 2013) Balance at 1 January 2012 5,500,000 276,791 314,711 (589,402) 20,734,623 26,236,723 394,610 26,631,333  IFRS 12 Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities (Effective 1 January 2013)  Annual improvements – May 2012 (Effective 1 January 2013) Profit (loss) for the year - - - - 8,440,908 8,440,908 (30,577) 8,410,331 Other comprehensive (loss) income for the year - - (34,819) 29,826 - (4,993) - (4,993) The Group is currently considering the implications of these new standards, amendments and interpretations which are effective for future accounting periods and has not early adopted any new standards or amendments Total comprehensive income for the year - - (34,819) 29,826 8,440,908 8,435,915 (30,577) 8,405,338 during the year. Transfer to legal reserve - 15,326 - - (15,326) - - - Dividends paid -- - - (4,125,000) (4,125,000) - (4,125,000) Dividends paid to non-controlling interests ------(2,250) (2,250) 2.5 Significant accounting policies Appropriation for contribution to social and sports Revenue fund (Note 8 and Note 26) - - - - (213,227) (213,227) - (213,227) Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Group and the revenue can be reliably measured. Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received, excluding Balance at 31 December 2012 5,500,000 292,117 279,892 (559,576) 24,821,978 30,334,411 361,783 30,696,194 discounts and rebates. The following specific recognition criteria must also be met before revenue is recognised:

Sale of goods Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods have passed to the buyer, usually on delivery of the goods.

Balance at 1 January 2011 5,500,000 202,392 315,152 (465,511) 16,098,799 21,650,832 13,621 21,664,453 Rental income Income arising from operating leases on investment properties is accounted for on a straight-line basis over the Profit (loss) for the year - - - - 7,930,831 7,930,831 (6,761) 7,924,070 lease terms. Other comprehensive loss for the year - - (1,561) (123,891) - (125,452) - (125,452) Interest income Income is recognised as interest accrues (using the effective interest method). Total comprehensive income for the year - - (1,561) (123,891) 7,930,831 7,805,379 (6,761) 7,798,618 Capital contribution ------390,000 390,000 Dividend income Transfer to legal reserve - 74,492 - - (74,492) - - - Dividend income is recognised, when the right to receive the dividend is established. Dividends paid -- - - (3,025,000) (3,025,000) - (3,025,000) Government grants Dividends paid to non-controlling interests ------(2,250) (2,250) Government grants are recognised as income over the periods necessary to match them with the related costs Appropriation for contribution to social and sports which they are intended to compensate, on a systematic basis. A government grant that becomes receivable as fund (Note 8 and Note 26) - - - - (196,490) (196,490) - (196,490) compensation for expenses or losses already incurred or for the purpose of giving immediate financial support to Liquidation of investment in joint venture (Note 29) - (93) 1,120 - 975 2,002 - 2,002 the entity with no future related costs shall be recognised as income of the period in which it becomes receivable.

Property, plant and equipment Balance at 31 December 2011 5,500,000 276,791 314,711 (589,402) 20,734,623 26,236,723 394,610 26,631,333 Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost excluding the cost of day-to-day servicing, less accumulated depreciation and any impairment in value. Land is not depreciated.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT WWW.IQ.COM.QA OR EMAIL US AT: [email protected] Industries Qatar Q.S.C.

Depreciation is calculated on a straight line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows: Impairment of financial assets The Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is any objective evidence that a financial asset or a group 3 REVENUES Petrochemical plant and buildings 20 to 25 years of financial assets is impaired. A financial asset or a group of financial assets is deemed to be impaired if, and only if, there is objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more events that has occurred after the 2012 2011 Fertiliser plant and buildings 3 to 20 years QR’000 QR’000 Steel plant, buildings and structures 15 to 25 years initial recognition of the asset (an incurred ‘loss event') and that loss event has an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset or the group of financial assets that can be reliably estimated. Evidence of Other assets: motor vehicles, heavy mobile Steel 6,154,187 5,760,020 equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment 3 to 15 years impairment may include indications that the debtors or a group of debtors is experiencing significant financial difficulty, default or delinquency in interest or principal payments, the probability that they will enter bankruptcy Petrochemicals 4,856,841 4,826,651 or other financial reorganisation and where observable data indicate that there is a measurable decrease in the Fertilisers 5,998,738 4,286,111 Expenditure incurred to replace a component of an item of property, plant and equipment that is accounted for Fuel additives 1,688,539 1,676,665 separately is capitalised and the carrying amount of the component that is replaced is written-off. Other estimated future cash flows, such as changes in arrears or economic conditions that correlate with defaults. subsequent expenditure is capitalised only when it increases future economic benefits of the related item of 18,698,305 16,549,447 property, plant and equipment. All other expenditure is recognised in the consolidated statement of income as the Available-for-sale financial investments expense is incurred. For available-for-sale financial investments, the Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is objective evidence that an investment or a group of investments is impaired. 4 OTHER INCOME, NET 2012 2011 The carrying values of property, plant and equipment are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in QR’000 QR’000 circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. If any such indication exists and where the In the case of equity investments classified as available-for-sale, objective evidence would include a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of the investment below its cost. ‘Significant’ is evaluated against the original carrying values exceed the estimated recoverable amount, the assets are written down to their recoverable amount Gain/(loss) from change in fair value of held-for-trading being the higher of their fair value less costs to sell and their value in use. cost of the investment and ‘prolonged’ against the period in which the fair value has been below its original cost. Where there is evidence of impairment, the cumulative loss – measured as the difference between the acquisition securities (Note 19) 1,523 (499) Gain on foreign exchange 9,706 10,447 An item of property, plant and equipment is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are cost and the current fair value, less any impairment loss on that investment previously recognised in the consolidated statement of income – is removed from other comprehensive income and recognised in the Net movement in fair value of investment properties (Note 13) 14,803 (2,961) expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the asset (calculated as the Other income 213,805 221,358 difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in the consolidated consolidated statement of income. Impairment losses on equity investments are not reversed through the statement of income in the year the asset is derecognised. consolidated statement of income; increases in their fair value after impairment are recognised directly in other comprehensive income. 239,837 228,345 The asset’s residual values, useful lives and methods of depreciation are reviewed at each financial year end, and adjusted prospectively, if appropriate. Inventories Inventories, including work in progress, other than maintenance parts and supplies, are stated at the lower of cost 5 INCOME FROM INVESTMENTS Capital work-in-progress and net realisable value; cost is determined on a weighted average cost basis. Net realisable value is the estimated The cost of capital work-in-progress consist of the contract value, and directly attributable costs of developing and selling price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated costs of completion and the estimated costs 2012 2011 bringing the project assets to the location and condition necessary for them to be capable of operating in the necessary to make the sale. Maintenance parts and supplies are stated at cost, less provisions for obsolescence. QR’000 QR’000 manner intended by management. The cost of capital work-in-progress will be transferred to tangible and intangible non-current asset classifications when these assets reached their working condition for their intended Net realisable value is based on estimated selling price less any further costs expected to be incurred on Dividend income 18,497 21,406 use. The carrying values of capital work in progress are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in completion and disposal. Interest on bank deposits 103,221 80,849 circumstances indicate the carrying value may be not be recoverable. If any such indication exists and where the carrying values exceed the estimated recoverable amount, the assets are written down to their recoverable value. Accounts receivable 121,718 102,255 Accounts receivable are stated at original invoice amount less a provision for any uncollectible amounts. An Projects under development estimate for doubtful debts is made when collection of the full amount is no longer probable. Bad debts are Projects under development represent costs incurred by the Group on developing new projects. These costs will written-off as incurred. Goods supplied but not invoiced are treated as accrued income at the price expected to be 6 GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES be converted to investments or property, plant and equipment, as appropriate, once the project materialises. Costs received. incurred on projects that do not materialise are written-off. 2012 2011 Cash and cash equivalents QR’000 QR’000 Intangible assets For the purpose of the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash at bank and on hand, and short-term deposits with an original maturity of three months or less, net of funds restricted for Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. Following initial recognition, Staff costs 431,123 344,326 use and outstanding bank overdrafts, if any. intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortisation and any accumulated impairment losses. External services 88,283 65,586 Derivative financial instruments and hedging Insurance, rents and fees 63,505 44,913 The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed as either finite or indefinite. Derivative financial instruments are contracts, the values of which are derived from one or more underlying Public relations and gifts 44,084 27,840 financial instruments or indices. Loss on breach of contract 32,729 - Intangible assets with finite lives are amortised over the useful economic life and assessed for impairment Spares and equipment 28,073 30,102 whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired. The amortisation period and the The Group uses derivative financial instruments such as forward currency contracts and interest rate swaps to Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment 18,415 amortisation method for an intangible asset with a finite useful life is reviewed at least at the end of each reporting hedge its risks associated with interest rate and foreign currency fluctuations. Such derivative financial 27,707 period. Changes in the expected useful life or the expected pattern of consumption of future economic benefits instruments are initially recognised at fair value on the date on which a derivative contract is entered into and are Depreciation (Note 11) 22,226 17,811 embodied in the asset is accounted for by changing the amortisation period or method, as appropriate, and are subsequently re-measured at fair value. Derivatives are carried as assets when the fair value is positive and as Travel and conveyance 13,668 10,484 treated as changes in accounting estimates. The amortisation expense on intangible assets with finite lives is liabilities when the fair value is negative. Board of Directors’ fees and expenses 12,239 6,366 recognised in the consolidated statement of income in the expense category consistent with the function of the Provision for obsolete and slow moving spare parts 9,286 6,406 intangible assets. Any gains or losses arising from changes in fair value on derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are QP annual charges 7,679 6,604 taken directly to the consolidated statement of income. The fair value of forward currency contracts is calculated Communication expenses 6,052 4,731 Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are tested for impairment annually, either individually or at the cash- by reference to current forward exchange rates for contracts with similar maturity profiles. The fair value of Repairs and maintenance 2,432 3,487 generating unit level. Such intangibles are not amortised. The useful life of an intangible asset with an indefinite interest rate swap contracts is calculated by reference to the market valuation of the swap contracts. Miscellaneous expenses 106,913 81,685 life is reviewed annually to determine whether indefinite life assessment continues to be supportable. If not, the change in the useful life assessment from indefinite to finite is made on a prospective basis. For the purpose of hedge accounting, hedges are classified as: 895,999 668,756 Investment properties  fair value hedges when hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of a recognised asset or liability Investment properties, which are properties held to earn rentals and/or for capital appreciation, are measured or unrecognised firm commitment (except for foreign currency risk); or initially at cost, including transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, investment properties are measured 7 OTHER EXPENSES at fair value. Gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of investment properties are included in profit  cash flow hedges when hedging exposure to variability in cash flows that is either attributable to a 2012 2011 or loss for the year in which they arise. particular risk associated with a recognised asset or liability or a highly probable forecast transaction or the foreign currency risk in an unrecognised firm commitment. QR’000 QR’000 Investment properties are derecognised when either they have been disposed of or when the investment property is permanently withdrawn from use and no future economic benefit is expected from its disposal. The difference At the inception of a hedge relationship, the Group formally designates and documents the hedge relationship to Cost of take or pay obligation 100,364 161,423 between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset is recognised in the consolidated statement which the Group wishes to apply hedge accounting and the risk management objective and strategy for Write-off of IQ Tower design cost (Note 12) - 85,157 of income in the year of derecognition. undertaking the hedge. The documentation includes identification of the hedging instrument, the hedged item or transaction, the nature of the risk being hedged and how the entity will assess the hedging instrument’s 100,364 246,580 Properties under development are transferred to investment properties when the property is in a condition effectiveness in offsetting the exposure to changes in the hedged item’s fair value or cash flows attributable to the necessary for it to be capable of operating in a manner intended by the management. hedged risk. Such hedges are expected to be highly effective in achieving offsetting change in fair value or cash flows and are assessed on an ongoing basis to determine that they actually have been highly effective throughout 8 CONTRIBUTION TO SOCIAL AND SPORTS FUND Catalysts the financial reporting periods for which they were designated. Catalysts acquired are measured on initial recognition at cost. Following initial recognition, catalysts are carried In accordance with Law No. 13 of 2008, the Group made an appropriation of profit of QR 213.2 million (2011: at cost less any accumulated amortisation and any accumulated impairment losses. The amortisation period is Hedges which meet the criteria for hedge accounting are accounted for as follows: 196.5 million) equivalent to 2.5% of the adjusted consolidated net profit for the year for the support of sports, reviewed at least at each financial year end. Changes in the expected useful life or the expected pattern of cultural, social and charitable activities. consumption of future economic benefits embodied in the asset is accounted for by changing the amortisation Fair value hedges period or method, as appropriate, and treated as changes in accounting estimates. The amortisation expense on The change in the fair value of a hedging derivative is recognised in the consolidated statement of income. The catalysts is recognised in the consolidated statement of income. change in the fair value of the hedged item attributable to the risk hedged is recorded as a part of the carrying 9 PROFIT FOR THE YEAR Investments in associates value of the hedged item and is also recognised in the consolidated statement of income. The Group's investments in its associates are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. An associate is The profit for the year is stated after charging: an entity in which the Group has significant influence. Cash flow hedges The effective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognised directly in equity, while any 2012 2011 Under the equity method, the investment in the associate is carried in the consolidated statement of financial ineffective portion is recognised immediately in the consolidated statement of income. QR’000 QR’000 position at cost plus post acquisition changes in the Group's share of net assets of the associate. Goodwill relating to the associate is included in the carrying amount of the investment and is neither amortised nor individually Amounts taken to equity are transferred to the consolidated statement of income when the hedged transaction Staff costs 1,323,207 1,055,297 tested for impairment. The consolidated statement of income reflects the share of the results of operations of the affects profit or loss, such as when the hedged financial income or financial expense is recognised or when a associate. Where there has been a change recognised directly in the equity of the associate, the Group recognises forecast sale occurs. Where the hedged item is the cost of a non-financial asset or non-financial liability, the Depreciation on property, plant and equipment (Note 11) 1,065,750 649,357 its share of any changes and discloses this, when applicable, in the consolidated statement of changes in equity. amounts taken to equity are transferred to the initial carrying amount of the non-financial asset or liability. Unrealised gains and losses resulting from transactions between the Group and the associate are eliminated to the Amortisation of catalysts and other non-current assets 25,456 24,154 extent of the interest in the associate. Employees’ end of service benefits The Group provides end of service benefits to its employees in accordance with employment contracts and Qatari The financial statements of the associate are prepared for the same reporting period as the Group. Where Labour Law. The entitlement to these benefits is based upon the employees’ final salary and length of service, Operating lease rentals 88,508 79,725 necessary, adjustments are made to bring the accounting policies in line with those of the Group. subject to the completion of a minimum service period. The expected costs of these benefits are accrued over the period of employment. Increase/(decrease) in fair value of investment properties (Note 13) 14,803 (2,961) After application of the equity method, the Group determines whether it is necessary to recognise an additional Under Law No. 24 of 2002 on Retirement and Pensions, the Group makes a contribution to a government fund for impairment loss on the Group's investment in its associates. The Group determines at each reporting date whether Qatari employees calculated as a percentage of the Qatari employees’ salaries. The Company’s obligations are there is any objective evidence that the investment in the associate is impaired. If this is the case the Group limited to these contributions, which are expensed as due. 10 BASIC AND DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE calculates the amount of impairment as the difference between the recoverable amount of the associate and its carrying value and recognises the amount in the consolidated statement of income. Interest bearing loans and borrowings Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net profit attributable to the equity holders of the parent for the Interest bearing loan is recognised initially at fair value of the amounts borrowed, less directly attributable period by weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year. Upon loss of significant influence over the associate, the Group measures and recognises any retaining investment transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, the loan is measured at amortised cost using the effective at its fair value. Any difference between the carrying amount of the associate upon loss of significant influence interest method. Instalments due within one year at amortised cost are shown as a current liability. The costs of The following reflects the income and share data used in basic and diluted earnings per share computation: and the fair value of the retaining investment and proceeds from disposal is recognised in profit or loss. raising finance applicable to amounts already drawn-down are amortised over the period of the loan using the effective yield method. 2012 2011 Interest in a joint venture The Group has interests in joint ventures which are jointly controlled entities, whereby the venturers have a Gains or losses are recognised in the consolidated statement of income when the liabilities are derecognised as Profit attributable to the equity holders of the parent for the year (QR’000) 8,440,908 7,930,831 contractual arrangement that establishes joint control over the economic activities of the entities. The arrangement well as through amortisation process. requires unanimous agreement for financial and reporting decisions among the ventures. The Group recognises its Weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year interest in the joint venture using proportionate consolidation method. The Group combines its share of each of Borrowing costs (“in thousands”) 550,000 550,000 the assets, liabilities, income and expenses of the joint venture with similar items, line by line, in its consolidated Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily financial statements. The financial statements of the joint venture are prepared for the same reporting period as the takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale are capitalised as part of the cost of the Basis and diluted earnings per share (expressed in QR per share) 15.35 14.42 Group. Adjustments are made where necessary to bring the accounting policies in line with those of the Group. respective assets. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period they occur. Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs that an entity incurs in connection with the borrowing of funds. Adjustments are made in the Group's consolidated financial statements to eliminate the Group's share of 11 PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT intragroup balances, income and expenses and unrealised gains and losses on transactions between the Group and Accounts payable and accruals Furniture, its jointly controlled entities. Losses on transactions are recognised immediately if the loss provides evidence of a Liabilities are recognised for amounts to be paid in the future for goods or services received, whether billed by the Plant, Heavy duty equipment Capital reduction in the net realisable value of current assets or an impairment loss. The joint venture is proportionately Land and machinery and mobile and Motor Computer work-in- supplier or not. buildings equipment equipment Fixtures vehicles equipment progress Total consolidated until the date on which the Group ceases to have joint control over the joint venture. QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 Operating leases Upon loss of joint control the Group measures and recognises its remaining investment at its fair value. Any Cost: Leases where the lessor retains substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the asset are classified as At 1 January 2012 2,549,919 16,309,847 142,030 59,623 19,172 97,565 792,479 19,970,635 difference between the carrying amount of the former joint controlled entity upon loss of joint control and the fair operating leases. Operating lease payments are recognised as an expense in the consolidated statement of income Additions 142 109,477 522 366 540 1,256 1,218,816 1,331,119 value of the remaining investment and proceeds from disposal are recognised in profit or loss. When the on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Transfers 3,573,522 9,541,707 14,551 2,613 389 5,726 (644,376) 12,494,132 remaining investment constitutes significant influence, it is accounted for as investment in an associate. Retirement and disposals (8) (42,210) (23,204) (615) (1,977) (1,059) - (69,073) Reclassifications - (1,903) - 8 - (8) - (1,903) Provisions Impairment of non-financial assets Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past At 31 December 2012 6,123,575 25,916,918 133,899 61,995 18,124 103,480 1,366,919 33,724,910 The Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the Depreciation: indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Group estimates the asset’s obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. At 1 January 2012 1,279,215 8,894,410 67,116 44,054 13,957 82,653 - 10,381,405 Charge for the year 182,407 857,852 11,662 3,964 1,948 7,917 - 1,065,750 recoverable amount. An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s (CGU) Relating to disposals (8) (25,892) (10,624) (614) - (3,037) - (40,175) fair value less costs to sell and its value in use and is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not Derecognition of financial assets and liabilities Relating to reclassification - - - 2 - (2) - - Financial assets generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. Where the At 31 December 2012 1,461,614 9,726,370 68,154 47,406 15,905 87,531 - 11,406,980 carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is A financial asset (or, where applicable a part of a financial asset or part of a group of similar financial assets) is derecognised when: Net carrying amounts: written-down to its recoverable amount. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted At 31 December 2012 4,661,961 16,190,548 65,745 14,589 2,219 15,949 1,366,919 22,317,930

to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of V the rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired; or Cost: money and the risks specific to the asset. In determining fair value less costs to sell, an appropriate valuation V the Group has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation to At 1 January 2011 2,152,235 15,213,131 142,747 57,028 14,570 91,456 978,723 18,649,890 Additions 301,721 624,310 1,854 1,937 4,716 2,311 714,782 1,651,631 model is used. These calculations are corroborated by valuation multiples, quoted share prices for publicly traded pay the received cash flows in full without material delay to a third party under a ‘pass-through' Transfers 96,839 531,950 5,367 658 300 4,200 (896,119) (256,805) subsidiaries or other available fair value indicators. arrangement; and either (a) the Group has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, Retirement and disposals (876) (55,123) (7,938) - (414) (402) (4,907) (69,660) Reclassifications - (4,421) - - - - - (4,421) or (b) the Group has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, Impairment losses of continuing operations are recognised in the consolidated statement of income in those but has transferred control of the asset. At 31 December 2011 2,549,919 16,309,847 142,030 59,623 19,172 97,565 792,479 19,970,635 expense categories consistent with the function of the impaired asset. Depreciation: When the Group has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from an asset or has entered into a pass-through At 1 January 2011 1,205,817 8,383,668 62,109 40,500 12,584 71,130 - 9,775,808 arrangement, and has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset nor Charge for the year 74,274 545,198 12,716 3,554 1,690 11,925 - 649,357 Financial assets transferred control of the asset, a new asset is recognised to the extent of the Group's continuing involvement in Relating to disposals (876) (32,871) (7,709) - (317) (402) - (42,175) Relating to reclassification - (1,585) - - - - - (1,585) Initial recognition and measurement the asset. Financial assets within the scope of IAS 39 are classified as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, At 31 December 2011 1,279,215 8,894,410 67,116 44,054 13,957 82,653 - 10,381,405 Continuing involvement that takes the form of a guarantee over the transferred asset is measured at the lower of loans and receivables, held-to-maturity investments, available-for-sale financial assets, or as derivatives Net carrying amounts: designated as hedging instruments in an effective hedge, as appropriate. The Group determines the classification the original carrying amount of the asset and the maximum amount of consideration that the Group could be At 31 December 2011 1,270,704 7,415,437 74,914 15,569 5,215 14,912 792,479 9,589,230 of its financial assets at initial recognition. required to repay. Financial liabilities Notes: A financial liability is derecognised when the obligation under the liability is discharged or cancelled or expires. Financial assets are recognised initially at fair value plus, in the case of investments not at fair value through (i) Certain of the buildings and plants located at Messaied, are erected on land owned by Qatar Petroleum, profit or loss, directly attributable transaction costs. When an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, except for the staff housing complex of a joint venture, which is constructed on land leased from the or the terms of an existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as a Industrial Development Technical Centre. Purchases or sales of financial assets that require delivery of assets within a time frame established by regulation derecognition of the original liability and the recognition of a new liability, and the difference in the respective or convention in the marketplace (regular way purchases) are recognised on the trade date, i.e., the date that the carrying amounts is recognised in the consolidated statement of income. (ii) Buildings of the subsidiary in Dubai, with a net book value of QR 36.7 million (2011: QR 37.4 million), Group commits to purchase or sell the asset. are constructed on a leased land from Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority for an initial period of 15 years from Foreign currencies August 2003. The Group's financial assets include cash and short-term deposits, trade and other receivables, quoted and The Group's consolidated financial statements are presented in Qatari Riyals, which is the Group's functional currency. That is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the Company operates. Each entity (iii) Depreciation charge has been allocated in the consolidated statement of income as follows: unquoted financial instruments, and derivative financial instruments. in the Group determines its own functional currency and items included in the financial statements of each entity are measured using that functional currency. Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded at the 2012 2011 Subsequent measurement functional currency rate prevailing at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in QR’000 QR’000 The subsequent measurement of financial assets depends on their classification as follows: foreign currencies are retranslated at the functional currency spot rate of exchange ruling at the reporting date. All differences are taken to the consolidated statement of income. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of Direct costs 1,042,864 630,886 historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates as at the dates of the initial General and administrative expenses 22,226 17,811 Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss Selling expenses 660 660 Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss includes financial assets held-for-trading and financial assets transactions. Non-monetary items measured at fair value in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the date when the fair value is determined. designated upon initial recognition at fair value through profit or loss. Financial assets are classified as held for 1,065,750 649,357 trading if they are acquired for the purpose of selling in the near term. This category includes held for trading The assets and liabilities of foreign operations and certain joint ventures are translated into Qatari Riyals at the investments and derivative financial instruments entered into by the Group that do not meet the hedge accounting rate of exchange prevailing at the reporting date and their statements of income are translated at the weighted criteria as defined by IAS 39. Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss are carried in the consolidated average exchange rates for the year. The exchange differences arising on the translation are taken directly to a 12 PROJECTS UNDER DEVELOPMENT statement of financial position at fair value with gains or losses recognised in the consolidated statement of separate component of equity. As the functional currencies of these entities are either US Dollars (US$) or UAE income. Dirhams, the exchange rate differences are not considered material. 2012 2011 QR’000 QR’000

Available-for-sale financial assets As the US Dollars and the Qatari Riyals are pegged, the assets, liabilities and results of operations have been converted at a fixed rate of QR 3.64. QAFCO-5 Project - 8,889,292 Available-for-sale financial assets are non-derivative financial assets that are designated as available-for-sale or QAPCO LDPE-3 Project - 1,556,003 are not classified in any of other categories. After initial measurement, available-for-sale financial assets are Fair values QAFCO-6 Project - 1,460,421 measured at fair value with unrealised gains or losses as other comprehensive income in cumulative changes in The fair value is the estimated amount for which asset could reasonably be exchanged for on the date of valuation fair value reserve until the investment is derecognised, at which time the cumulative gain or loss recorded in between a willing buyer and a willing seller in an arm’s length transaction wherein the buyer and seller has each - 11,905,716 equity is recognised in the consolidated statement of income, or determined to be impaired, at which time the acted knowledgeably, prudently and without compulsion. The fair value of the interest rate swap contracts is cumulative loss recorded in equity is recognised in the consolidated statement of income. Due to the nature of determined by referring to market value of similar instruments. The fair value of forward currency contract is Notes: cash flows arising from Group’s certain unquoted investments, the fair value of these investments cannot be calculated by reference to the current forward exchange rates for contracts with similar maturity profiles. The fair reliably measured. Consequently, these investments are carried at cost less provision for any impairment losses. value of financial instruments that are actively traded in organised financial markets is determined by reference to (i) During the year, no borrowing costs were capitalised related to Projects under development (2011: QR quoted market bid prices at the close of business on the reporting date. 471.06 million).

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The Group’s immediate and ultimate parent entity is Qatar Petroleum (“QP”). 13 INVESTMENT PROPERTIES As at 31 December 2012, trade accounts receivable at nominal value of QR 8.12 million (2011: QR 0.24 million) were impaired. Movements in the allowance for impairment of receivables were as follows: Transactions with related parties included in the consolidated statement of income are as follows: 2012 2011 2012 2011 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 Selling Lease At fair value: and other rental Other At 1 January 243 3,322 Sales Purchases expenses payments income At 1 January 133,229 200,162 Charge for the year 7,879 - Disposals during the year - (62,412) Unused amounts reversed - (3,079) Year ended 31 December 2012 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 Other movements - (1,560) Net gain / (loss) from fair value adjustments (Note 4) 14,803 (2,961) At 31 December 8,122 243 Major shareholders 264,828 2,183,859 17,802 13,582 1,930 Joint ventures 569,925 159,551 1,176 - 193,430 At 31 December 148,032 133,229 As at 31 December, the ageing of unimpaired trade receivables is as follows: Associates 371,849 856,170 2 - 5,667 Other related parties 3,426,580 35,134 135,714 31,098 17,549 Neither past Past due but not impaired The fair value of the Group’s investment properties at 31 December 2012 has been arrived at on the basis of a due nor Until 30 31 to 60 61 to 90 91to 180 More than valuation carried by an independent valuer not related to the Group. The valuation was arrived at by reference to Total impaired days days days days 180 days 4,633,182 3,234,714 154,694 44,680 218,576 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 market evidence of transaction prices for similar properties. The management believes that this approximates the fair value of investment properties as at 31 December 2012. Major shareholders 238,497 2,041,761 22,155 20,805 1,889 2012 2,191,962 1,919,439 169,364 69,829 12,541 20,789 - Joint ventures 600,867 48,205 26,436 - 178,842

Associates 134,969 871,180 - - 3,944 14 INTANGIBLE ASSETS 2011 1,911,917 1,658,513 162,149 50,299 25,330 9,771 5,855 Other related parties 2,333,848 32,500 103,079 29,434 12,698 Unimpaired receivables are expected, on the basis of past experience, to be fully recoverable. It is not the practice 2012 2011 of the Group to obtain collateral over receivables. 3,308,181 2,993,646 151,670 50,239 197,373 QR’000 QR’000

Cost: 19 HELD-FOR-TRADING INVESTMENTS Related party balances: At 1 January 194,288 146,890 2012 2011 Due from related parties Additions - 47,398 QR’000 QR’000

At 31 December 194,288 194,288 At 1 January 4,141 178,532 2012 2011 Additions 1,490 15,201 QR’000 QR’000 Disposals - (189,093) Amortisation: Movement in fair value (Note 4) 1,523 (499) At 1 January 25,038 18,734 Major shareholders 80,881 46,155 Amortisation for the year 6,277 6,304 At 31 December 7,154 4,141 Joint ventures 99,226 55,636 Associates 32,857 27,931 At 31 December 31,315 25,038 Other related parties 771,082 464,012 20 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 984,046 593,734 Net carrying amount at 31 December 162,973 169,250 2012 2011 QR’000 QR’000 Intangible assets include the following: Due to related parties Bank balances and cash 9,080,209 6,960,094  2012 2011 The Group’s share of the cost of Unipol Polyethylene License agreement for the Linear Low Density For the purpose of consolidated statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents comprise: Polyethylene (LLDPE) and High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) entered into by Qatofin. These are stated at QR’000 QR’000 cost less amortisation and impairment losses and amortised over a period of 40 years. 2012 2011 QR’000 QR’000 Major shareholders 659,290 825,926 Joint ventures 205,065 139,521  The Goup’s share of the project infrastructure costs incurred by QVC for the right to use jetty facilities and Bank balances and cash 9,080,209 6,960,094 Associates - 1,342 other infrastructure at Messaied. These are stated at cost less amortisation and impairment losses and Less: Fixed deposits maturing after 90 days (40,705) (204,000) Other related parties 115,545 142,443 amortised over the period of 25 years, which represents the term of the joint venture as per the shareholders’ joint venture agreement. 9,039,504 6,756,094 979,900 1,109,232 Bank balances and cash include current and call deposits of QR 2,675.6 million (2011: QR 2,007.58 million) and  The Group’s share of the license cost paid by Qatar Melamine for the non-exclusive license to use the term deposits of QR 6,404.1 million (2011: QR 4,950.23 million), respectively, held with commercial banks in The sales to and purchases from related parties are made at normal market prices. Outstanding balances at the technology for the production of melamine and to design, engineer, construct, operate, modify and Qatar. Included in term deposits is an amount of QR 347.9 million (2011: QR 274.9 million) denominated in maintain the plant facilities. Amortisation is calculated on a straight line basis over the period of 25 years. year-end are unsecured, interest free and settlement occurs in cash. There have been no guarantees provided or United States Dollars. The term deposits are denominated mainly in Qatari Riyals and are short term in nature, received for any related party receivables or payables. For the year ended 31 December 2012, the Group has not with average effective interest rates of 2.0% (2011: 2.2%). recorded any impairment of receivables relating to amounts owed by related parties (2011: Nil). This assessment 15 INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATES is undertaken each financial year through examining() the financial position of the related party and the market in which the related party operates. 21 SHARE CAPITAL The Group has the following investments in associates: The remuneration of directors and other members of key management during the year was as follows: 2012 2011 Effective Country of 2012 2011 QR’000 QR’000 2012 2011 ownership incorporation QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 Authorised, issued and paid-up: Qatar Metals Coating Company W.L.L. (i) 50.00% Qatar 25,950 25,586 550,000,000 shares of QR 10 each 5,500,000 5,500,000 Short term benefits 46,503 26,376 Gulf United Steel Holding Company Board of directors sitting fees 4,483 3,722 (Foulath) BSC Closed (ii) 25.00% Bahrain 1,226,848 1,510,105 Qatari employees’ pension fund contribution 1,150 1,035 SOLB Steel Company (formerly known as 31.04% Saudi Arabia 22 LEGAL RESERVE South Steel company W.L.L.) (iii) 212,717 207,130 52,136 31,133 IQ was formed in accordance with Article 68 of Qatar Commercial Companies’ Law No. 5 of 2002. As per 1,465,515 1,742,821 Article 68 of the Qatar Commercial Companies’ Law No. 5 of 2002, the Companies covered by the Article shall not be subject to the provisions of this Law, except to the extent that the provisions of the Law are not in 28 OTHER FINANCIAL LIABILITIES contradiction with the Articles of Association of the Company. (i) Qatar Metals Coating Company W.L.L. (Q-COAT) is involved in the production of epoxy resin coated 2012 2011 QR’000 QR’000 bars. Q-COAT is managed by Qatar Steel in accordance with a management service agreement. Since the Articles of Association of the Company does not provide for legal reserve, the legal reserve detailed on Other financial liabilities the face of the consolidated statement of financial position represents the sum of the subsidiaries and share of (ii) Gulf United Steel Holding Company (Foulath) BSC Closed (Bahrain) is a Bahraini Closed Joint Stock group companies' legal reserve, included for consolidation purposes. Derivatives held as cash flow hedges: Company incorporated on 26 June 2008 in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Interest rate swaps – 1 342,318 344,670 Interest rate swaps – 2 123,503 148,769 Gulf United Steel Holding Company (Foulath) BSC Closed (Bahrain) is a holding company for a group 23 DIVIDEND PAID AND PROPOSED Interest rate swaps – 3 67,498 77,738 of commercial/industrial companies, that is engaged in the manufacture and sale of iron pallets, stainless steel flat products, operate meltshop furnaces and heavy beams rolling mill and related infrastructure. The Board of Directors has proposed a final cash dividend distribution of QR 8.5 per share and a 10% bonus 533,319 571,177 During 2011, the Group made an additional investment of QR 248.9 million as a result of an increase in share for the year ended 31 December 2012 (2011: QR 7.50 per share). The dividends for 2011 amounting to QR 4,125 billion were approved by the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting held on 19 March 2012 and was Presented in the consolidated statement of financial position as follows: the capital of the associate. The additional contribution made by the Group did not have any impact on the subsequently paid during 2012. The proposed final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2012 will be ownership percentage. submitted for formal approval at the Annual General Meeting. Non-current portion 421,935 455,962 Current portion 111,384 115,215 During the current year, the Group recognized an impairment of QR 150 million relating to the 24 INTEREST BEARING LOANS AND BORROWINGS investment in Gulf United Steel Company (Foulath) BSC closed. 533,319 571,177 Maturity 2012 2011 Interest rate Entity Currency Date QR’000 QR’000 Interest rate swaps - 1: (iii) SOLB Steel Company is a company incorporated in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is currently in the Loan 1 LIBOR plus applicable margin QAFCO USD 2017 2,655,071 3,686,235 Loan 2 LIBOR plus applicable margin Qatar Steel USD 2018 1,288,807 1,406,772 As at 31 December 2012, QAFCO has two interest rate swap contracts replacing its floating interest rate bearing development phase of a steel melt shop and bar mill. Loan 3 LIBOR plus 1.50% Qatar Steel USD 2018 356,564 - loans for fixed interest bearing loans, designated as hedges of expected future LIBOR interest rate payments Loan 4 LIBOR plus 1.70% QAFAC USD 2019 34,580 - during the period to 5 December 2017. The terms of the interest rate swap contracts have been negotiated to Loan 5 4.6% and 5.1% QPPC QR 2014 2,464 2,132 During 2011, the Group increased its investment holding from 20.95% to 29.74% in the Company by a Syndicated loan (i) LIBOR plus applicable margin QATOFIN USD 2020 955,532 1,100,986 match the terms of the commitments of the term loan (Note 24). As at 31 December 2012, the Group’s share of cash consideration of QR 87.6 million Syndicated loan (ii) LIBOR plus 1% to 1.3% QVC USD 2013 - 83,945 measurement of the fair values of the hedges resulted in a negative amount of QR 342.3 million (2011: QR 344.6 Murabaha facility 5.50% QAPCO USD 2013 582,400 582,400 million) which has been recognised in the equity as changes in fair values and as derivative liabilities.

During 2012, the Group increased its shareholding by 1.3% in SOLB Steel Company, increasing its 5,875,418 6,862,470 investment holding of the Group from 29.74% to 31.04%. The cash consideration paid amounted to QR Less: repayments due within one year (1,922,884) (1,327,330) Interest rate swaps - 2: During August 2006, Qatar Steel entered into interest rate swap agreements with two banks for a notional amount 13.6 million. Total non-current portion 3,952,534 5,535,140 of USD 290.2 million, reducing regularly every six months starting from 31 March 2009. The Company receives The movement in investment in associates during the year is as follows: Notes: a variable rate equal to LIBOR and pays a fixed rate of 5.45% on the reduced notional amount till 28 September 2007, and pays a fixed rate of 5.671% thereafter till 31 March 2017. Interest is settled under the agreements on a Loan 1: 2012 2011 QAFCO has entered into an agreement with a consortium of banks lead by HSBC as the facility agent on 2 December 2007, to obtain a term loan facility amounting to USD semi-annual basis. The swaps are designated to hedge the exposure to fluctuations on the variable portion QR’000 QR’000 1.6 billion to finance the construction of QAFCO-5 project, which was completed on 29 February 2012. The loan bears interest at LIBOR plus an applicable margin. The loan (LIBOR) of the interest rate on Loan 2 included in Note 24. The term loan and interest rate swaps have the same is repayable in semi-annual instalments commencing 4 years after the date of the first drawdown. QAFCO has assigned to the security trustee, all monies which at any time critical terms. may be or become payable to the trustee, all its present and future rights, title and interest in, under various agreements pursuant thereto and the net proceeds of any claims, Balance at 1 January 1,742,821 1,406,115 award and judgments which may at any time be receivable or received by QAFCO. Also, QAFCO has entered into two interest rate swaps to hedge its risk associated with interest rate fluctuation as detailed in Note 28. Additional capital contribution in an associate - 248,860 At 31 December 2012, the measurement of the fair values of the hedges resulted in a negative amount of QR 123.5 million (2011: QR 148.8 million) which have been recognised in the equity as changes in fair values and as Share of net movement in effective portions of changes in fair value of Loan 2: This is a US Dollar denominated facility consisting of a term loan facility of US$ 483.5 million (Tranche A loan) and a stand-by facility of USD 75 million (Tranche B loan) derivative liabilities. cash flow hedges 3,750 (776) intended to fund the EPC contracts entered into by Qatar Steel. The loan carries interest at LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 0.8% - 1.0% per annum (Tranche A loan) and Dividends received from associates (5,000) (5,000) 1.0% – 1.10% per annum (Tranche B loan) and mandatory costs, if any. Tranche A loan is repayable in 19 instalments at a predetermined rate on total Tranche A loan draw Interest rate swaps - 3: Share of results of associates (139,633) 5,998 downs starting 6 months after the completion date of the related expansion projects. Tranche B, if any, is repayable in 8 equal instalments starting on the date of the twelfth Tranche A repayment date. Qatar Steel has entered into interest rate swap agreements to hedge the exposure to the fluctuations on the variable portion of the interest rate of this At 31 December 2012, QATOFIN had interest rate swap agreements in place with two banks with a notional Impairment loss on investment in an associate (150,000) - facility as detailed in Note 28. amount of US$ 262 million (2011: US$ 302 million) whereby it receives a variable rate on the notional amount Increase in ownership in an associate 13,577 87,624 and pays a fixed rate of interest. The swaps are used to hedge the exposure to changes in the cash flow of its variable rate Syndicated Loan (i) included in Note 24. The loan and interest rate swaps have the same critical Balance at 31 December 1,465,515 1,742,821 terms. The Group’s share of the negative fair value of these interest rate swaps amounted to QR 67.5 million (2011: QR 77.7 million) has been shown as a separate component of equity and as derivative liabilities. Loan 3: The summarised financial information in respect of the Group’s share in the associates are as follows: 29 INTEREST IN JOINT VENTURES On 1 December 2011, Qatar Steel entered into a subordinated facility agreement for US$ 250 million with International Bank of Qatar and Union National Bank to finance its EF5 project. 2012 2011 The following amounts reflect, on a combined basis, the Group’s proportionate share of the assets, liabilities, QR’000 QR’000 revenues and expenses of joint venture companies included in these consolidated financial statements. As at 31 December 2012, Qatar Steel has drawn down US$ 100 million equivalent to QR 364,150,000 and is

payable in 10 semi-annual installments and carries interest at LIBOR plus a margin of 1.5% Share of associates’ statement of financial position: 2012 2011 Current assets 745,088 772,221 Loan 4: QR’000 QR’000 Non-current assets 2,191,098 1,721,037 Term loan represents a clean corporate facility amounting to US$ 80 million for which a facility agreement was Current liabilities (652,847) (447,079) signed by QAFAC with a local bank on 11 June 2012 to finance construction of Carbon Di-oxide Recovery Assets: Non-current liabilities (1,423,053) (1,051,377) Project. Current assets 7,410,494 5,854,817 Non-current assets 19,469,191 18,969,087 Group’s share of net assets of associates’ 860,286 994,802 Term loan carries interest at LIBOR plus margin of 1.7% per annum and is repayable in 10 semi-annual instalments commencing from June 2015. The average rate for the year was 1.9%. 26,879,685 24,823,904 Share of associates’ revenue and profit Revenue 1,120,540 1,460,787 Loan 5: Liabilities: At reporting date, QPPC has bank loans amounting to QR 9.2 million with banks at an interest rate of 4.6% and Current liabilities 4,512,248 4,100,608 5.1% per annum. Share of result of associates’ (139,633) 5,998 Non-current liabilities 3,207,175 5,022,677 Syndicated loans: 7,719,423 9,123,285 16 AVAILABLE- FOR- SALE INVESTMENTS (i) Qatofin entered into an agreement with a consortium of banks for an amount of US$ 760 million to finance the construction of the Qatofin Plant. At the reporting date, outstanding loan amount is US$ 2012 2011 2012 2011 523.1 million (2011: 603.5 million). The loan currently carries interest at LIBOR plus a margin of 0.80% Revenues: QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 (up to Lenders Completion Date, i.e. 5 December 2011, it was 0.5%). The loan is repayable in semi- annual instalments with the last instalment scheduled by 30 June 2020. Sales 12,544,118 10,789,427 Quoted shares 641,441 672,744 Other income 160,826 118,492 Unquoted shares - 2,180 Qatofin has assigned to the security trustee, all its present and future rights, title and interest in, under various agreements all monies which at any time may be or become payable to it pursuant thereto and the 12,704,944 10,907,919 641,441 674,924 net proceeds of any claims, awards and judgements which may at any time be receivable or received by Expenses: Qatofin. Direct costs 4,516,833 3,618,117 Interest and finance charges 204,280 83,298 17 INVENTORIES (ii) QVC has bank loans amounting to US$ 90.4 million at an interest rate of LIBOR plus a margin varies from 1% to 1.3%. These loans are secured against the sale proceeds. This loan was fully repaid during Selling expenses 242,388 190,023 General and administrative expenses 669,859 520,738 2012 2011 the year. QR’000 QR’000 Murabaha facility: 5,633,360 4,412,176 Fuel additives 60,556 70,771 Steel 425,788 387,692 QAPCO has drawn Murabaha facility for an amount of US$ 200 million (2011: US$ 200 million). The facility Liquidation of Fereej Fertilisers 157,852 151,500 carries an interest rate of 5.5% per annum and is repayable by 30 March 2013. The equivalent Qatari riyal amount On 17 August 2011, Fereej’s Board of Directors have resolved and approved the voluntary dissolution of the Joint Petrochemicals 40,562 104,792 of QR 728 million (2011: QR 728 million presented as non-current portion) is presented as current portion. Venture, and as a result an independent Liquidation Committee was formed, duly appointed by the Joint Work-in-progress 137,187 168,886 25 EMPLOYEES’ END OF SERVICE BENEFITS Venture’s Board of Directors, with the powers and responsibility to oversee and facilitate the liquidation of the Raw materials 725,488 622,282 Joint Venture. The Joint Venture effectively ceased operations on 30 November 2011, as determined and Goods in transit 83,327 93,008 2012 2011 approved by the Liquidation Committee. All assets of the Joint Venture were either transferred to shareholders or Maintenance parts and supplies 787,359 748,937 QR’000 QR’000 sold to third parties with the proceeds being distributed to the shareholders, based on their respective shareholding, after settlement of all liabilities of the Joint Venture. 2,418,119 2,347,868 Balance as at 1 January 219,877 201,159 Less: Provision for obsolete and slow moving spare parts (123,117) (117,227) Provision during the year 62,125 62,871 As a result of the liquidation of the investment in the Joint Venture, the Group received cash and available-for- Paid during the year (41,269) (44,153) sale investments amounting to QR 154.84 million and QR 6.36 million, respectively. The Company also 2,295,002 2,230,641 recognised a loss on the liquidation of investment in the joint venture of QR 8.79 million. Balance as at 31 December 240,733 219,877 Movements in the provision for obsolete and slow moving spare parts were as follows: 30 COMMITMENTS 2012 2011 26 ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUALS 2012 2011 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 2012 2011 Capital expenditure commitments: Balance as at 1 January 117,227 109,454 QR’000 QR’000 Estimated capital expenditure contracted for at the reporting date but not Provided during the year 14,665 9,171 provided for: Write-off of inventories (8,775) (1,398) Trade payables 441,838 334,215 Provision for social and sports activities contribution (Note 8) 213,227 196,490 Property, plant and equipment 1,190,436 1,643,527 123,117 117,227 Accrued expenses and other payables 1,337,693 745,933 (a) Qatar Steel has open purchase order commitments for the supply of miscellaneous capital items amounting 1,885,135 1,384,261 to QR 557million (2011: QR 345.8 million). 18 ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE AND PREPAYMENTS Included in accrued expenses and other payables is an amount of QR 34.3 million (2011: QR 34.3 million) due to (b) On 25 May 2009, QAPCO signed an agreement with UHDE GmbH for the construction of QAPCO LDPE 2012 2011 the State of Qatar. This represents a relief amount received from the State of Qatar and have been considered as III project with a contract value of USD 558.6 million. Included in the total commitments, is the group QR’000 QR’000 interest-free and repayable on demand. share of capital commitment amounting to Nil (2011: QR 199.16 million).

Trade accounts receivable 2,200,084 1,912,160 (c) Included in the total commitments, is the Group’s share of QATOFIN capital commitment and its joint Other receivables and prepayments 744,034 692,599 27 RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES venture, RLOC, amounting to QR 15.2 million (2011: QR 85.79 million). Loans to employees 80,139 60,659 Related party transactions (d) On 2 December 2007, QAFCO signed an agreement with Hyundai Construction & Engineering Company 3,024,257 2,665,418 These represent transactions with related parties, i.e. shareholders, joint venture partners, directors and senior Limited and Snamprogetti S.P.A. for building a new Ammonia plant and Urea Formaldehyde Concentrate Less: Allowance for impairment of receivables (8,122) (243) management of the group of the companies, and the companies in which they are principal owners. Pricing (UFC) plant – UFC 85. The value of the contract including the variation orders is USD 3,515.5 million policies and terms of these transactions are approved by the respective management. (Group share: USD 2,636.6 million). Group’s share of capital commitment as of 31 December 2012 3,016,135 2,665,175 amounted to Nil (2011: QR 656 million).

(e) On 9 October 2009, QAFCO signed an agreement with Hyundai Construction & Engineering Co. Ltd. and Snamprogetti S.P.A. for building a new Urea plant. The value of the contract is USD 620 million (Group share: USD 465 million). Group’s share of capital commitment as of 31 December 2012 amounted to Nil (2011: QR 232 million).

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT WWW.IQ.COM.QA OR EMAIL US AT: [email protected] Industries Qatar Q.S.C.

Operating lease commitments: Carrying amount Fair value The Group entered into operating lease agreements with Qatar Petroleum for the land on which certain plant 2012 2011 2012 2011 facilities are constructed and for the use of berth facilities. Credit risk QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 Credit risk refers to the risk that a counterparty will default on its contractual obligations resulting in financial loss In addition, Qatar Steel entered into a lease agreement with the Government of Dubai, where it will be to the Group. The Group has adopted a policy which limits its exposure to credit risk on its bank balances by Financial liabilities contingently liable for the value of the annual rent on the lease agreement for the land on which plant facilities dealing with financial institutions of good credit ratings. The Group’s exposure to counterparties is continuously Interest bearing loans and borrowings 5,875,418 6,862,470 5,875,418 6,862,470 are constructed. Accounts payable and accruals 1,885,135 1,384,261 1,885,135 1,384,261 monitored and the aggregate value of transactions concluded is spread amongst approved counterparties. Credit Due to related parties 979,900 1,109,232 979,900 1,109,232 Future minimum rentals payable under these leases at 31 December are as follows: exposure is controlled by counterparty limits that are reviewed and approved by management. The carrying Other financial liabilities: amount of the financial assets recorded in these consolidated financial statements, which is net of impairment Interest rate swaps 533,319 571,177 533,319 571,177 2012 2011 losses represents the Group’s maximum exposure to credit risks. QR’000 QR’000 Total 9,273,772 9,927,140 9,273,772 9,927,140 Within one year 69,470 70,957 With respect to credit risk arising from the other financial assets of the Group, including cash and cash The fair value of the financial assets and liabilities are included at the amount at which the instrument could be After one year but not more than five years 139,409 142,876 exchanged in a current transaction between willing parties, other than in a forced or liquidation sale. The More than five years 328,740 360,091 equivalents and derivative instruments with positive values, the Group’s exposure to credit risk arises from the default of the counterparty, with a maximum exposure equal to the carrying amount of these instruments. following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair values: Total operating lease expenditure contracted for at the reporting date 537,619 573,924  Cash and short-term deposits, trade receivables, trade payables, and other current liabilities approximate 2012 2011 their carrying amounts largely due to the short-term maturities of these instruments. 31 SIGNIFICANT UNDERTAKINGS QR QR  The fair value of unquoted instruments, loans from banks and other financial liabilities, obligations under QP has given an undertaking to produce, deliver and sell to QAFAC, such quantities of Gas and Butane finance leases as well as other non-current financial liabilities is estimated by discounting future cash (collectively called “plant feedstock”) as QAFAC will require from time to time in to operate its Plant. The terms Bank balances (excluding cash) 9,079,732 6,957,803 flows using rates currently available for debt on similar terms, credit risk and remaining maturities. of this undertaking are contained in the Butane and Gas Feedstock Sale and Purchase Agreement between Accounts receivable and other assets 2,869,087 2,567,128 QAFAC and QP signed on 14 April 1997 and amended and restated subsequently on 9 August 2002. This Amounts due from related parties 984,046 593,734  Fair value of available-for-sale financial assets and held-to-maturity investments are derived from quoted Agreement is valid until the expiry or termination of the Joint Venture Agreement. market prices in active markets, if available.

12,932,865 10,118,665  32 CONTINGENCIES The Group enters into derivative financial instruments with various counterparties, principally financial institutions with investment grade credit ratings. Derivatives valued using a valuation techniques with At 31 December 2012, the Group had contingent liabilities in respect of bank and other guarantees and other Liquidity risk market observable inputs are mainly interest rate swaps. The most frequently applied valuation matters arising in the ordinary course of business from which it is anticipated that no material liabilities will arise, techniques include forward pricing and swap models, using present value calculations. The models amounting to QR 255.7 million (31 December 2011 : QR 333.4 million.). Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet financial obligations as they fall due. The Group’s incorporate various inputs including the credit quality of counterparties, foreign exchange spot and approach to managing liquidity risk is to ensure, as far as possible, that it will always have sufficient liquidity to forward rates and interest rate curves. The Group’s contingent liabilities are as follows: meet its liabilities when due, under both normal and stressed conditions, without incurring unacceptable losses or 2012 2011 Fair value hierarchy QR’000 QR’000 risking damage to the Group’s reputation. At 31 December 2012, the Group held the following financial instruments measured at fair value: Letters of credit 164,696 25,871 The Group limits its liquidity risk by maintaining adequate funds in the banks and ensuring bank facilities are Bank guarantees 419,384 189,079 available. The Group’s terms of sales require amounts to be paid within 30 days of the date of invoice. Trade The Group uses the following hierarchy for determining and disclosing the fair value of financial instruments by Legal cases 1,386 40,826 payables are normally settled within 45 – 60 days of the date of purchase. valuation technique: 585,466 255,776 Level 1: quoted (unadjusted) prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; Less than Level 2: other techniques for which all inputs which have a significant effect on the recorded fair value are 33 SEGMENTAL REPORTING At 31 December 2012 one year 1 to 5 years > 5 years Total observable, either directly or indirectly; and QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 For management purposes, the Group is organised into business units based on their products and services, and Level 3: techniques which use inputs which have a significant effect on the recorded fair value that are not has three reportable operating segments as follows: Accounts payables and accruals 1,885,135 - - 1,885,135 based on observable market data.  The petrochemical segments, which produces and sells ethylene, polyethylene, MTBE, methanol, caustic Interest bearing loans and soda, ethylene dichloride, vinyl chloride monomer and other petrochemical products borrowings 1,285,369 4,669,241 695,380 6,649,990 The Group held the following financial instruments measured at fair value:  The fertiliser segment, which produces and sells urea, ammonia and other by products Due to related parties 979,900 - - 979,900  The steel segment, which produces and sells steel pellets, bars, billets and others At 31 December 2012 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other financial liabilities 46,332 486,987 - 533,319 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 Management monitors the operating results of its business units separately for the purpose of making decisions about resource allocation and performance assessment. Segment performance is evaluated based on operating 4,196,736 5,156,228 695,380 10,048,344 Assets measured at fair value profit or loss which in certain respects, as explained in the table below, is measured differently from operating Available-for-sale investments 641,441 641,441 - - profit or loss in the consolidated financial statements. Held-for-trading investments 7,154 7,154 - - Less than Operating segments At 31 December 2011 one year 1 to 5 years > 5 years Total Liabilities measured at fair value The following table present revenue and profit information regarding the Group’s operating segments for the year Other financial liabilities: ended 31 December 2012 and 2011 respectively: QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 Interest rate swaps 533,319 - 533,319 -

Accounts payables and accruals 1,384,261 - - 1,384,261 At 31 December 2011 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Petrochemicals Fertilisers Steel Total QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 Interest bearing loans and borrowings 1,494,069 3,333,274 2,919,067 7,746,410 Assets measured at fair value Year ended 31 December 2012 Due to related parties 1,109,232 - - 1,109,232 Total revenue 6,545,379 5,998,739 6,154,187 18,698,305 Available-for-sale investments 672,744 672,744 - - Other financial liabilities 21,228 549,949 - 571,177 Held-for-trading investments 4,141 4,141 - - Results: Segment results 3,555,333 3,415,887 1,401,976 8,373,196 4,008,790 3,883,223 2,919,067 10,811,080 Liabilities measured at fair value Other financial liabilities: Unallocated income 75,595 Interest rate swaps 571,177 - 571,177 - Unallocated expense (38,460) During the reporting period ending 31 December 2012, there were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 fair Profit for the year 8,410,331 value measurements, and no transfers into and out of Level 3 fair value measurement. Currency risk Currency risk is the risk that the fair value or the future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to The fair values of the financial instruments with the exception of certain unquoted available-for-sale investments changes in foreign exchange rates.As the Qatari Riyal is pegged to the US Dollars, the balances in US Dollars are carried at cost are not materially different from their carrying values. not considered to represent significant currency risk. Total revenue 6,503,316 4,286,111 5,760,020 16,549,447 The table below indicates the Group’s foreign currency exposure at 31 December, as a result of its monetary Results: assets and liabilities. The analysis calculates the effect of a reasonably possible movement of the Qatari Riyal 36 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING JUDGEMENTS OR ESTIMATES Segment results 3,785,662 2,548,659 1,646,677 7,980,998 currency rate against the GBP and Euro, with all other variables held constant, on the consolidated statement of income (due to the fair value of currency sensitive monetary assets and liabilities). The effect of decrease in The preparation of the Group's consolidated financial statements requires management to make judgments, Unallocated income 55,194 currency rates is expected to be equal and opposite to the effect of the increase shown. estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities, and the Unallocated expense (112,122) disclosure of contingent liabilities, at the reporting date. However, uncertainty about these assumptions and Changes in Effect on estimates could result in outcomes that require a material adjustment to the carrying amount of the asset or Profit for the year 7,924,070 currency rate to consolidated liability affected in future periods. the Qatari Riyal statement of The following table present segmental assets regarding the Group’s business segments for the year ended 31 income Judgments December 2012 and 31 December 2011 respectively: QR’000 In the process of applying the Group's accounting policies, management has made the following judgments which 2012 have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the consolidated financial statements: Petrochemicals Fertilisers Steel Adjustments Total GBP +5% 156 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 Euro +5% 1,035 Impairment of available-for-sale equity investments The Group treats available-for-sale equity investments as impaired when there has been a significant or prolonged Segment assets: 2011 decline in fair value below its cost or where other objective evidence of impairment exists. The determination of At 31 December 2012 10,016,119 16,657,870 9,296,787 4,239,923 40,210,699 GBP +5% 192 Euro +5% 3,610 what is “significant” or “prolonged” requires considerable judgment. The Group evaluates the investments on a At 31 December 2011 9,697,131 15,014,434 8,399,385 3,667,400 36,778,350 case by case basis taking into account normal volatility in share price for quoted equities and the future cash flows Equity price risk and the discount factors for unquoted equities. During the current year, the Group has recognised impairment of Notes: The Group's listed and unlisted investments are susceptible to equity price risk arising from uncertainties about available-for-sale investments of QR 2 million (2011: QR 9 million). future values of the investments. The Group manages the equity price risk through diversification and placing (i) The amount included in the adjustment column represents assets carried in the books of Industries Qatar limits on individual and total portfolio of equity instruments. Reports on the equity portfolio are submitted to the Estimates and assumptions Group's senior management on a regular basis and results are reviewed by the Board of Directors. and which cannot be allocated to the primary segments. The key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date, (ii) The above segmental reporting relates only to the subsidiaries and joint venture companies. At the reporting date, the exposure to unlisted securities at cost was Nil (2011: QR 2.1 million). that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below (iii) Significant portion of the Group’s non-current assets are located in the State of Qatar. At the reporting date, the Group’s exposure to listed equity securities at fair value was QR 648.6 million (2011: QR 679.06 million) which includes both available-for-sale investments and held-for-trading investments. An increase or decrease of 10% on the Qatar Exchange (QE) index would have an impact of approximately QR 0.72 Impairment of accounts receivable 34 FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT million (2011: QR 0.41 million) on the consolidated statement of income in respect of held for trading An estimate of the collectible amount of trade accounts receivable is made when collection of the full amount is investments. In respect of available-for-sale investments, a decrease of 10% on the QE & ASX index would have no longer probable. For individually significant amounts, this estimation is performed on an individual basis. Objectives and policies an impact of approximately QR 64.14 million (2011: QR 67.49 million) on the consolidated statement of income Amounts which are not individually significant, but which are past due, are assessed collectively and a provision The Group’s principal financial liabilities, other than derivatives, comprise interest bearing loans and borrowings, or equity attributable to the Group, depending on whether or not the decline is significant and prolonged. An applied according to the length of time past due, based on historical recovery rates. accounts payable and certain accruals and due to related parties. The main purpose of these financial liabilities is increase of 10% in the value of the listed securities would impact equity in a similar amount but will not have an to raise finance for the Group’s operations. The Group has various financial assets such as available-for-sale effect on income unless there is an impairment charge associated with it. investments, held-for-trading investments, accounts receivables and certain other receivables, amounts due from At the reporting date, gross trade accounts receivable were QR 2,200 million (2011: QR 1,912 million), and the related parties and cash and short-term deposits, which arise directly from its operations. The Group also enters Capital management provision for doubtful debts was QR 8.12 million (2011: 0.24 million). Any difference between the amounts into derivative transactions, primarily interest rate swaps. The purpose is to manage the interest rate risks arising Capital includes equity attributable to the equity holders of the parent less the net unrealised gains reserve. actually collected in future periods and the amounts expected will be recognised in the consolidated statement of from the Group’s operations and its sources of finance. It is, and has been throughout 2012 and 2011 the Group’s income. policy that no trading in derivatives shall be undertaken. The primary objective of the Group's capital management is to ensure that it maintains a strong credit rating and healthy capital ratios in order to support its business and maximise shareholder value. The main risks arising from the Group’s financial instruments are cash flow interest rate risk, liquidity risk, Impairment of inventories foreign currency risk, equity price risk and credit risk. The Board of Directors reviews and agrees policies for The Group manages its capital structure and makes adjustments to it, in light of changes in economic conditions. Inventories are held at the lower of cost and net realisable value. When inventories become old or obsolete, an managing each of these risks which are summarised below. To maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Group may adjust the dividend payment to shareholders, return capital to shareholders or issue new shares. No changes were made in the objectives, policies or processes during estimate is made of their net realisable value. For individually significant amounts this estimation is performed on the years ended 31 December 2012 and 31 December 2011. an individual basis. Amounts which are not individually significant, but which are old or obsolete, are assessed Market risk collectively and a provision applied according to the inventory type and the degree of ageing or obsolescence, Market risk is the risk that changes in market prices, such as foreign exchange rates, interest rates and equity based on historical realisable value. prices will affect the Group’s income or the value of its holdings of financial instruments. The objective of market The Group monitors capital using a gearing ratio, which is net debt divided by total capital plus net debt. The Group's policy is to keep the gearing ratio at less than 50%. The Group includes within net debt, interest bearing risks management is to manage and control market risk exposures within acceptable parameters, while optimising At the reporting date, gross inventories were QR 2,418 million (2011: QR 2,348 million), with provisions for old the return. The Group has a set of acceptable parameters, based on value at risk, that may be accepted and which loans and borrowings, trade and other payables, less cash and cash equivalents. Capital includes equity and obsolete inventories of QR 123 million (2011: 117.2 million). Any difference between the amounts actually is monitored on a regular basis. attributable to the equity holders of the parent less the net unrealised gains reserve. realised in future periods and the amounts expected will be recognised in the consolidated statement of income. Interest rate risk 2012 2011 Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because Revaluation of investment properties of changes in market interest rates. The Group's exposure to the risk of changes in market interest rates relates QR’000 QR’000 primarily to the Group's interest bearing loans and borrowings and short term deposits with floating interest rates. The Group carries its investment properties at fair value, with changes in fair values being recognised in the consolidated statement of income. The Group engaged independent valuation specialists to determine fair value as Interest bearing loans and borrowings 5,875,418 6,862,470 The Group’s exposure to the risk of changes in market interest rates relates primarily to the Group’s financial at 31 December 2012. The valuation was arrived at by reference to market evidence of transaction prices for Accounts payable and accruals 1,885,135 1,384,261 assets and liabilities with floating interest rates and fixed interest instruments. To manage the risk of changes in similar properties. floating interest rate on its interest bearing loan, the Group has entered into interest rate swaps as explained in Due to related parties 979,900 1,109,232 Note 28. Under the swap agreements, the Group will pay an agreed fixed interest rate and receive a floating Other financial liabilities 533,319 571,177 Useful lives of property, plant and equipment interest rate. The Group’s management determines the estimated useful lives of its property, plant and equipment for 9,273,772 9,927,140 The following table demonstrates the sensitivity of the consolidated statement of income (due to call deposits), calculating depreciation. This estimate is determined after considering the expected usage of the asset or physical wear and tear. Management reviews the residual value and useful lives annually and future depreciation charge Property, plant and equipment and projects under development (due to interest cost capitalised) and equity (due to Less: Cash and short term deposits (9,080,209) (6,960,094) interest rate swaps) to reasonably possible changes in interest rates by 25 basis points, with all other variables held would be adjusted where the management believes the useful lives differ from previous estimates. constant. The sensitivity of the consolidated statement of income, property, plant and equipment and equity is the Net debt 193,563 2,967,046 effect of the assumed changes in interest rates for one year, based on the floating rate financial assets and financial liabilities held at 31 December 2012. The effect of decreases in interest rates is expected to be equal and opposite Equity 30,334,411 26,236,723 to the effect of the increases shown. 37 COMPONENTS OF OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Cumulative changes in fair value (279,892) (314,711) Net effect on Hedging reserve 559,576 589,402 2012 2011 Property, QR’000 QR’000 plant and 30,614,095 26,511,414 Profit equipment Equity Available-for-sale investments +25bps +25bps +25 bps Capital and net debt 30,807,658 29,478,460 Losses arising during the year (36,999) (10,571) QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 Reclassification adjustments for impairment included in the At 31 December 2012 Gearing ratio 0.6% 10.06% statement of income 2,180 9,010 Variable rate instruments Call deposits 4,366 - - (34,819) (1,561) Interest bearing loans and borrowings (5,419) - - 35 FAIR VALUES OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Derivatives - - (6,689) Set out below is a comparison by class of the carrying amounts and fair value of the Group’s financial instruments Cash flow hedges (1,053) - (6,689) that are carried in the consolidated financial statements. Gains/(losses) arising during the year – Interest rate swaps 26,076 (123,115) Share of gains/(losses) from an associate arising during the year – Net effect on Carrying amount Fair value Interest rate swaps 3,750 (776) Property, 2012 2011 2012 2011 plant and QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 29,826 (123,891) Profit equipment Equity +25bps +25bps +25 bps QR’000 QR’000 QR’000 Financial assets At 31 December 2011 Available-for-sale investments 641,441 674,924 641,441 674,924 38 COMPARATIVES Variable rate instruments Accounts receivable and prepayments 3,016,135 2,665,175 3,016,135 2,665,175 Call deposits 8,953 - - Due from related parties 984,046 593,734 984,046 593,734 The Group has reclassified an amount of QR 94 million relating to 2011 balance of other financial liabilities from Interest bearing loans and borrowings (1,558) 9,552 - Held-for-trading investments 7,154 4,141 7,154 4,141 non-current liabilities to current liabilities to conform with the current year’s presentation. This reclassification Bank balances and cash 9,080,209 6,960,094 9,080,209 6,960,094 did not have any impact on the previously reported income and equity of the Group.

Total 13,728,985 10,898,068 13,728,985 10,898,068

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT WWW.IQ.COM.QA OR EMAIL US AT: [email protected] THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 23 Credible data key to energy investment: Al Attiyah Leaders of the energy industry attend ExxonMobil 2013 Energy Outlook Forum

DOHA: The Chairman of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority H E Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah has said that developing an accurate energy data analysis and projection is key for energy policy development and finan- cial investment planning. Addressing ExxonMobil 2013 Energy Outlook Forum yesterday, Al Attiyah said energy produc- ers and consumers, government planners, oil companies, market investors and all those who are affected directly or indirectly by the impact of the energy mar- ket are looking for an accurate data. To make the right invest- ment decisions we need to rely on quality analysis and plausible forecast of future energy supply and demand directions and con- sumption patterns, Al Attiya said. Rapid developments in oil and gas production combined with population and economic growth, environmental objectives, geo- political factors and Government policies are having profound effect on domestic, regional and inter- national energy markets. FROM LEFT: Rob Gardner, Corporate Strategic Planning Economic & Energy Manager at ExxonMobil Corporation, Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Sada, Minister of Energy & Industry, Abdullah The global energy landscape bin Hamad Al Attiyah, Chairman of Administrative Control and Transparency Authority, Dr Ibrahim Ibrahim, Economic Adviser to the Emir & Executive Member of Supreme Committee for is changing rapidly. And those Development Planning and Sean Evers, Managing Partner of Gulf Intelligence during a panel session of The 2013 Energy Outlook Forum at the Four Seasons Hotel yesterday. SHAIVAL DALAL changes will recast our expecta- tions about the role of different Jointly hosted by the General foreign ambassadors, academia, Participants in the forum Economic Advisor to the Emir and Strategic Planning Economics countries, regions and fuels over Secretariat for Development community leaders and key jour- included H E Dr Mohammed Bin Executive Member of the Supreme and Energy Manager for Exxon the coming decades. We are living Planning (GSDP), the event nalists to discuss ExxonMobil’s Saleh Al Sada, Minister of Energy Committee for Development Mobil Corporation, and Sean in a time of game-changers across brought together leaders of the long-term view of the energy and Industry and Chairman and Planning, Alistair Routledge, Vice Evers, Managing Partner of Gulf the fuel spectrum and these will country’s energy industry, repre- future published annually as the Managing Director of Qatar President of ExxonMobil Qatar Intelligence and moderator of the present both new opportunities sentatives from Qatar’s ministries, Outlook for Energy. Petroleum, Dr. Ibrahim Ibrahim, Inc., Rob Gardner, Corporate event. THE PENINSULA and new challenges. Sharing his nearly four decades of experience in the energy sector Al Attiyah recalled that forecasts conducted after the first oil shock in 1973 did not predict the ability Qatar well-positioned to face ‘shale revolution’: Dr Al Sada of the Western economies to adopt BY SATISH KANADY more energy-efficient technologies would rather call the US shale energy analysts. The same fore- has developed its North Field will soon emerge as the major and practices which led to the oil ‘revolution’ a shale ‘evolution’, Dr casters continue to say that the sector on right time. “We are consumer. Saudi will need more price collapse of the eighties. DOHA: Qatar has played down Al Sada said. conventional energy will remain quite efficient and are positioned LNG in the coming years. The Similarly, energy forecasters the possible impact of the so Addressing a Q&A session, held for another seventy years. very comfortable. We are not at demand from Abu Dhabi and did not see the growing impor- called ‘US shale revolution’ in connection with the release of When we talk about Shale all worried about the supply”, he Kuwait are also set to surge in tance of the non-Opec production on the Middle East’s conven- “The 2013 GSDP-ExxonMobil revolution, ‘cost-effectiveness’ is said. the coming years. and the oil glut that followed in tional energy markets. H E 2013 Energy Outlook Forum” a key. It is so expensive. The life Dr Al Sada said, as of now, Earlier, addressing the opening the early nineties. More recently, Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Dr Al Sada said all the forecasts span of Shale gas is predicted to 75 percent of the world’s total session, Dr Al Sada said: Framing long term energy forecasts and Sada, Minister of Energy and must be taken with a pinch of drop quicker. They need to keep energy demand is projected to future energy strategy requires projections made during the Industry yesterday said Qatar salt. Forecasts often tend to miss drilling all the time and there come from fossil fuel. At least answers to pressing questions last decade did not see the rapid is well positioned to face any unexpected factors. are lot of questions in terms of 50 percent of the incremental surrounding conventional and emergence of the shale gas phe- possible challenges posed by Shale is not a threat to the environmental concerns, sustain- increase of gas is still coming non-convention gas like how nomenon in the US and its huge the shale energy stories, both market; in fact it would boost ability and technical challenges. from conventional gas, which shale gas affect the energy out- impact potential on the global in mid-term and long-term the confidence of the consumers. Dr Al Sada noted the Shale ener- prompts us to wonder whether look for the US and the rest of energy markets. prospects. Now forecasters predict the con- gy’s reservoir model is also under Shale is just news. the world and the questions like Although most long-term “The effects of shale gas may ventional energy would last just question. On the Middle East’s conven- “will the position of Australia as forecasts are not perfect in some be dramatic in the US. But we next 70 years. The 70-year dead- On Qatari perspective, the tional energy market, Dr Al Sada a prospective leading future LNG respect, we must acknowledge do not expect it will be a game line has been predicting for quite minister added, the biggest said market is set to undergo a player alter the future outlook?” that they remain essential to changer in the Middle East. I long time by the forecasters and advantage is that the country major change. The Middle East THE PENINSULA investment decisions.

Bombardier Global 5000 to be displayed at Abu Dhabi Air Expo

ABU DHABI: Qatar Executive, is the perfect platform to present major aviation players from across the private jet charter divi- visitors our aircraft and provide the Gulf region, Levant, North sion of award-winning Qatar them with a taste of the refined in- Africa and, as far afield as Asia Airways, will be exhibiting at flight experience they can expect and South Africa. the Abu Dhabi Air Expo next when travelling with us.” The Bombardier Global week demonstrating its com- “We received a great response 5000 on static display is part of mitment to the vibrant Middle at last year’s show, and anticipate Qatar Executive’s wholly-owned East business aviation market. a substantial amount of business Bombardier fleet of six long-range The three-day event between resulting from talks with cus- business jets. With its reclining March 5–7 will be held for the tomers and business partners as leather ergonomics armchairs, second consecutive year, tak- demand for private jet travel is a full pull-out divan, a four-seat Steve Troop, CEO of Barwa Bank, with the prestigious award at the Jumeirah Emirates Tower in Dubai. ing place at Al Bateen Executive continuously surging in the Gulf conference table in the rear and Airport — the first dedicated and the Middle East.” numerous outlets for laptops, business jet airport in the Middle Qatar Executive, awarded the the Global 5000 has huge appeal Barwa Bank wins two awards East and North Africa. Best Business Aviation Operator among business and leisure trav- Qatar Executive will be show- in 2012 by the Dubai-based mag- ellers alike. DOHA: Barwa Bank Group, Tranche Sukuk as Joint Lead commentary on the global Islamic casing its Bombardier Global 5000 azine Aviation Business Middle The ultra-long business jet has Qatar’s fastest growing Manager and ‘Turkey Deal of finance sector, presented Steve on static display, giving visitors East, has established itself as a 13 seats and can whisk passengers Shariah compliant bank- the Year’ for the Republic of Troop, CEO of Barwa Bank, with the opportunity to see the luxu- major aircraft charter operator from Abu Dhabi to Singapore or ing service provider, has won Turkey $1.5bn Debut Sukuk as the prestigious awards during a rious interiors of its popular jet, not just in the Middle East, but from Abu Dhabi to London non- the Islamic Finance News Co-Lead Manager. gala ceremony at the Jumeirah which features the widest and also in Russia and CIS nations, as stop. Its spacious baggage com- ‘Qatar Deal of the Year’ for Islamic Finance News, the Emirates Tower in Dubai. most spacious cabin among super- well as Europe and Africa. partment, accessible from the the State of Qatar $4bn Dual leading provider of news and THE PENINSULA large business jets flying today. Covering business jets, heli- cabin, offers plenty of room for Qatar Airways Chief Executive copters and related services, the all personal belongings. Officer Akbar Al Baker com- Abu Dhabi Air Expo is expected The aircraft is equipped with mented: “The Abu Dhabi Air Expo to draw over 10,000 visitors and a state-of-the-art entertainment system, featuring one 36-inch and two 21-inch large LCD monitors, QIIB to pay charges for transferring accounts as well as high-speed internet and satellite communications service DOHA: The Qatar for the customers willing to join period of six and three months for an efficient and comfortable International Islamic Bank them. The offer will remain valid respectively. work environment. (QIIB) has announced to pay till March 31. According to the The Bank has also come out with Apart from two Global 5000s, (bear) the transfer charges lev- offer, QIIB’s new customers with a special scheme for car finance Qatar Executive also operates ied on customers of other banks an account liability of QR100,000 that too without the need of hav- three Challenger 605s and a who are willing to leaving their will get a bonus of QR1000 once ing any mortgage with a promise Global Express XRS — the most existing banks to join QIIB, a they repay the liabilities of their to complete the process with in an feature-rich and luxurious busi- press statement said yesterday. former banks. hour’s time. The installments for a ness jet of the fleet. The à la carte As per rules banks usually The amount of repayment car loan worth QR100,000 will be service for passengers includes charge one percent of the total installments for such custom- QR1,574 for citizens and QR2,267 the convenience of booking an amount of liabilities of their cus- ers with a loan of QR100,000 fro expatriates. The maturity aircraft in as little as four hours tomers when they transfer their will be QR1,599 per month for conditions and grace periods for before departure, access to pre- accounts to other banks. The Qatari Citizens with 72 months repayment of loans for citizens mium airport lounges, and check- QIIB, as part of its business strat- maturity, and QR2, 299 for expa- and expatriates will be applicable in 10 minutes prior to take off. egy has come out with an offer to triates with 48 months matu- as mentioned above. Qatar Executive Global 5000 THE PENINSULA bear the account transfer costs rity, and they will get a grace THE PENINSULA THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 24 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Speculators’ return fuels Dubai bubble fear Investors’ queue outside real estate developers offices reminds of pre-2008 boom DUBAI: Property speculators are market more closely now than it did back in Dubai, aiming to make their before the crash. The Real Estate fortunes by buying apartments and vil- Regulatory Authority’s website provides las for cash, then selling them within updates on the progress of projects and months, weeks or even days. It’s a sign, the performance history of develop- some people fear, that Dubai risks ers, and a system to hear complaints repeating the mistakes of the past. from investors and tenants has been Queues of investors have formed introduced. outside the offices of major real estate But an initial attempt by the United developers in the past several months, Arab Emirates central bank to curb spec- in scenes that recall the emirate’s boom ulative buying of properties has found- days before 2008, when money poured ered. In December it introduced caps on into Dubai property from around the mortgage loans as a proportion of the world. value of properties being bought; three That boom was followed by a devastat- weeks later, after commercial banks ing crash when the bubble burst; inflated complained, it said it would not enforce residential property prices plunged by those rules. more than 50 percent between 2008 and The central bank now says it plans 2011. Dubai was forced to obtain a $10bn to introduce wide-ranging rules for the bailout from neighbouring Abu Dhabi. mortgage market in six to nine months, This time around, there are reasons to after consulting the banks. The banks, think that any property bubble will not which are politically influential, have be as large as the last one; supply and proposed softer caps than the central demand have not diverged as much, and bank’s original intention. As few as 15 government officials have said they will percent of Dubai’s home purchases are regulate the mortgage industry. estimated to involve mortgages, so some But given Dubai’s history, renewed analysts question how effective mortgage signs of exuberance in the property mar- caps would be in heading off speculators. ket are grounds for concern. Mario Volpi, Another concern is the effect of govern- head of residential sales and leasing at ment statements in fuelling the bullish property consultancy Cluttons in Dubai, mood in the property market. warns that an unsustainable bubble could Prices have taken off in the last several form unless the government steps in. months after the government and state- “Many investors who are queuing up linked firms announced plans to build a for these properties are looking to make a A view of skyscrapers in Dubai. Property speculators are back in Dubai, aiming to make their fortunes by buying apartments and villas series of spectacular projects, including a quick buck by flipping them,” he said. “We for cash, then selling them within months, weeks or even days. development featuring the world’s largest need a rule that perhaps stops selling of shopping mall and 100 hotels, a $1.6bn property for two years after purchase. Or The investors were seeking to buy speculation in the market.” growing at annual rates of around 5 island project housing the world’s largest perhaps some sort of a tax on such sales.” “off-plan” properties - projects which There are some good reasons for the percent or more, meaning an addition of Ferris wheel, and a $2.7bn complex of five Although there a big variations within had been designed but not yet built, and market’s recovery. Thanks to a burgeon- about 100,000 people every year, accord- theme parks. Dubai’s housing market, and many low- which might be sold on to another owner ing tourism sector and its status as a ing to official data. Such growth seems The statements buoyed the confidence end properties are still weak, prices gen- before construction. And, like the old business hub for surrounding regions, able to absorb the projected increase in of investors, but details have not been erally hit bottom around the middle of days, many or most purchases appeared Dubai’s economy is now recovering supply. Also, Dubai currently does not released, and in the past decade, Dubai last year. Since then they have recovered to be in cash. “No one standing here is strongly, growing at a rate of roughly 4 look expensive compared to other inter- announced many plans that were later impressively, rising as much as 20 percent buying on mortgage. This is a cash buy percent. Political unrest elsewhere in the national cities. Prime residential space in quietly shelved. If the current plans do in prime areas. business,” the investor said. Middle East is prompting some people Dubai now costs around $1,000 per square not materialise, demand for residential Some investors among the roughly 100 Ryan Mahoney, chief executive at to use Dubai as a safe haven for their foot, compared to twice that amount or property could turn out to be less than lining up earlier this month at the down- property brokerage firm Better Homes, wealth. more in London. hoped. An official at a top construction town headquarters of Emaar Properties, said: “In case things get too overheated, It is not clear that supply and demand firm in Dubai, speaking on condition of the emirate’s biggest developer, were vet- I do hope the regulators step in.” are getting far out of line. Analysts expect REGULATION anonymity because of the commercial erans of the last boom. Individual Dubai property agents han- about 15,000 to 18,000 residential units to Other aspects of the property mar- sensitivity of his remarks, said concrete “There is the same excitement in dled as many as 30 separate projects at a enter Dubai’s market this year and the ket’s recovery are more troubling, how- construction plans had not yet been the air...People are buying anything time during the boom between 2006 and same number in 2014 — although these ever. One major, unresolved question is made for any of the recently announced that’s being offered by Emaar,” said one 2008, he said. “Now we handle about two numbers may rise as scores of projects, whether authorities are willing and able projects. “It will be a while before all this Pakistani investor, who did not wish to to three and they have not been launched. shelved during the crash, are revived. to regulate the market to prevent the translates into work for us or anything be identified because he did not want to So, it’s still nothing like the days back On the demand side, the population excessive volatility of the past. starts, if at all,” he said. draw attention to his operations. in 2008, but there is definitely increased of Dubai, now about 2 million, has been Dubai is certainly monitoring the REUTERS Dubai plans central Islamic finance regulatory board

DUBAI: Dubai plans to set up a few countries have a central board central Sharia board to oversee and other Gulf countries have fol- all Islamic financial products lowed a loose, decentralised model used in the emirate, and will of regulation. encourage government-linked Having products in Dubai entities to issue and list sukuk approved by a single entity could on the local bourse, senior offi- help to harmonise their struc- cials said yesterday. tures, make it easier to create and The government announced list them on the bourse, and boost last month that it wanted to their appeal to investors. become a global centre for Islamic “Unifying the sharia board will finance and other businesses limit discrepancies between dif- based on Islamic principles. But ferent structures and will boost it will face tough competition confidence in our local market,” from established centres such said Hussain Al Qemzi, chief Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei talking to Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari (centre), as Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad looks as London and Malaysia, where executive of Noor Islamic Bank. on in Tehran, yesterday. trading of sukuk (Islamic bonds) is much more active. SUKUK CENTRE “We follow international stand- New issues of sukuk jumped to Gas pipeline must advance, Iran tells Pakistan ards of Islamic economies and will about $121bn worldwide in 2012, be the world’s number one centre according to Thomson Reuters for Islamic finance,” Dubai’s ruler data, from around $85bn in 2011. TEHRAN: Iran’s supreme finding funds and opposition to players have tried in vain to “There are impediments in Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Dubai’s share of this was relatively leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei the project from Washington, prevent an expansion of Iran- view of the US opposition to the Maktoum, who is also prime min- small and most of the emirate’s yesterday told the visiting which has slapped Iran with a Pakistan ties but the people project but we are determined ister of the United Arab Emirates, issuers have listed their bonds and Pakistani president that a raft of sanctions over its nuclear have learnt how to act against to complete it to meet our fast- told reporters. sukuk overseas, taking secondary much-delayed $7.5bn gas pipe- activities. enemies of Islam,” he was quoted growing energy requirements,” Eissa Kazim, secretary-general market liquidity with them. line project must go ahead The Pakistani media reported as saying. said one government official on of the committee leading Dubai’s Almost $9.2bn worth of sukuk despite US opposition. last year that Zardari would visit Islamabad has said it will pur- condition of anonymity. Islamic economy initiative, said: is listed on the Dubai mar- “The Iran-Pakistan gas pipe- Iran in mid-December 2012, when sue the project regardless of US Tehran has been strangled by “We will harmonise all stand- ket, but $7.5bn of sukuk issued line is an important example of a final agreement was to have pressure, saying the gas is needed a Western oil embargo that has ards, structures and regulations from Dubai is listed interna- Tehran-Islamabad cooperation, been signed, but the visit was to help Pakistan overcome its seen its crude exports halve in the through having a unified sharia tionally and around $1.5bn is and despite hostilities towards the delayed. energy crisis that has led to debil- past year, while Pakistan has an board at a government level to unlisted, said Kazim, who is also expansion of ties we must over- In 2010, Iran and Pakistan itating blackouts and suffocated acute need for energy and plans to oversee the industry.” Dubai Financial Market’s chief come this opposition decisively,” agreed that Tehran would supply industry. produce 20 percent of its electric- Shariah boards are groups of executive. Khamenei told Asif Ali Zardari, between 750 million cubic feet (21 Iran has almost completed the ity from Iranian gas. scholars which rule on whether If 50 percent of total bond issu- his office reported. million cubic metres) and one bil- pipeline work in its territory, but Iran has the second largest financial instruments and activi- ance from Dubai is Islamic and The gas pipeline project is lion cubic feet per day of natural Pakistan has not yet started con- world gas reserves after Russia ties are religiously permissible. listed on the local bourse, “Dubai strongly opposed by Tehran’s gas by mid-2015. struction of 780km of the pipeline and currently produces some 600 Most major Islamic banks and can easily top the list of Islamic archfoe Washington. Iranian President Mahmoud on its side, which is said to cost million cubic metres a day, almost finance firms around the world financial centres,” said Kazim. “Accessing safe energy source Ahmadinejad told Zardari that, some $1.5bn. all of which is consumed domesti- have them; the rulings of dif- Most debt issuers in Dubai is the first priority for any coun- “building the gas pipeline between Sanctions-hit Iran finally cally due to lack of exports means. ferent boards are sometimes are government-related enti- try including Pakistan. In this Iran and Pakistan is a great and agreed to finance one third of The only foreign client is inconsistent and the scholars are ties which will definitely con- region, the Islamic republic is the important event, and it serves the the costs of laying the pipeline Turkey, which buys about 30 mil- sometimes open to suggestions of sider listing their sukuk locally, only nation that has safe energy two nations’ interests,” the presi- through Pakistani territory to lion cubic metres of gas a day. conflicts of interest. he added. resources and we are ready dent’s office reported. Nawabshah, north of Karachi, Tehran also plans to sell its gas A government-level Shariah Last month Dubai Financial to provide Pakistan its energy “I believe that building this with the work to be carried out to two other neighbours, Iraq and board could reduce such confu- Market, which runs the emirate’s needs,” the powerful Khamenei project is very beneficial for both by an Iranian company. Syria. The three countries agreed sion over standards in Dubai’s securities market, published draft said. sides and we support all the work Pakistani officials in mid- in 2011 to build a pipeline, with Islamic finance industry, help- standards for sukuk with a con- The pipeline project has run carried out so far,” Zardari said December said Iran had promised the work already started on the ing it attract business. With the sultation period that closes today. into repeated problems, includ- in talks his Iranian counterpart. a $500m loan and that Islamabad Iranian side. prominent exception of Malaysia, REUTERS ing Pakistan’s difficulty in “The international and regional would meet the rest of the cost. AFP THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 25 Qatar 2022 team ends US trade trip The joint mission visits infrastructure projects in US cities

DOHA: The Qatar 2022 extremely impressed with the new ways LA and its businesses preparations to host the World Supreme Committee and the calibre of companies and individu- can partner and collaborate with Cup. American firms have a US Embassy in Qatar con- als that we have been introduced Qatar as it prepares for 2022 Fifa proven track record of delivering cluded a joint trade mission to this week. The United States World Cup and beyond.” world-class projects on time and to Los Angeles, Portland and is renowned as a hub for inno- Portland businesses, actively on budget,” she added. Seattle this week. The del- vation and on this visit we have engaging in projects in Qatar and Members of the Committee’s egation, led by the Secretary- witnessed inspiring projects in the the Middle East, have positioned Technical Department visited General of the Qatar 2022 fields of design, sustainability and Oregon as a leader in sustainable several iconic sport facilities of Supreme Committee, Hassan sports development.” design and planning, as well as the West Coast including, the Al Thawadi and Susan Ziadeh, “We must now build on these in green technology. “Portland Rose Bowl, the Home Depot US Ambassador to the Qatar, relationships with our American and Qatar have longstanding ties Centre, the Staples Centre, Jeld- toured sporting venues, visited and international counterparts in education and business, and Wen Field, CenturyLink Field, infrastructure projects and laid and ultimately use the 2022 a shared passion for soccer and Safeco Field and the to-be-con- the foundation for mutually Fifa World Cup as a platform to sustainability. Our citizens and structed Farmers Field in order beneficial partnerships with US articulate, develop and improve companies welcome the opportu- to research redevelopment, enter- companies as Qatar prepares to on international best practice nity to work together to make the tainment, cultural and legacy host the 2022 Fifa World Cup. for infrastructure, for renewable 2022 World Cup a great success,” ideas that can be applied to sta- Commercial ties between technology and for the tourna- said Mayor Charlie Hales. diums in Qatar. Qatar and the United States ment itself,” he added. During the visit, the Qatar This visit underscored both have expanded over the last As part of the visit, the 2022 Supreme Committee also countries commitment to shared seven years, with trade volumes Secretary-General and the US researched innovative, sustainable trade, growth and economic co- growing from $738m in 2003 Ambassador met with Antonio energy technologies; studied the operation in US markets that to $4.03bn in 2011. As part of Villaraigosa, the Mayor of Los applications of sustainability and meet Qatar’s demand for special- the Joint Trade Mission, the Angeles (LA), and Charlie Hales, green building ratings to public ised, first-rate goods and services. Secretary General delivered the Mayor of Portland, in their buildings and sports facilities; and The US-Qatar Business presentations to hundreds of respective cities to discuss infra- were briefed on international best Council will jointly host a Qatar American companies in Los structure projects, green tech- practice design strategies. 2022-related trade mission to Angeles, Portland and Seattle nologies, trade and investment. Commenting on the mission Qatar with the Bilateral US-Arab on the business opportunities LA hosted the 1932 and 1984 Ambassador Susan Ziadeh said: Chamber of Commerce in June. the 2022 Fifa World Cup Qatar Summer Olympic Games and “The 2022 Fifa World Cup is a The Qatar 2022 Supreme presents at briefings organised was one of the nine host cities of key example of how Qatar’s ris- Committee is tasked with deliv- by the US Commercial Service. the 1994 Fifa World Cup United ing international prominence is ering an amazing Fifa World Cup Hassan Al Thawadi explained States. “Los Angeles is the crea- bringing about new and exciting while ensuring that its prepara- why the Qatar 2022 Supreme tive, entertainment and innova- partnership opportunities.” tions align with Qatar’s other Committee had chosen to initiate tion capital of the world and we “US firms are world lead- development imperatives, as one of the Committee’s first fact- are on the forefront of interna- ers with unique capabilities and described in the Qatar National finding business missions in the tional trade and tourism,” said experience in project manage- Vision 2030 and the National The Secretary-General of the Qatar 2022 Supreme Committee, Hassan Al United States and on the West Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. “So ment, event management, and Development Strategy 2011-2015. Thawadi (left), with the US Ambassador to Qatar Susan Ziadeh and the Coast. He said: “We have been I look forward to exploring the other areas crucial to Qatar’s THE PENINSULA Mayor of Los Angeles, Antonio Villaraigosa, in Los Angeles.

Oil storage terminal Ryanair to appeal Etihad buys three Heathrow EU veto of Aer slots from Jet Airways Lingus merger DUBLIN: Budget airline Ryanair will appeal yester- NEW DELHI: Shares in Jet ownership rules in September than 27 percent since then day’s decision by Europe’s anti- Airways surged as much as and allowed foreign carriers to through Tuesday. monopoly watchdog to block 19.7 percent yesterday after TV buy up to 49 percent in local car- Etihad will have to find a way its third takeover bid for Aer channel ET Now cited uniden- riers, which are battling stiff com- around Jet’s complicated share- Lingus , potentially leaving the tified sources as saying Etihad petition and high operating costs. holding structure before a deal fate of its Irish rival in limbo for Airways was close to a deal to Malaysia’s AirAsia Bhd, Asia’s can be finalised. years. The rebuff was expected purchase a 24 percent stake in largest budget carrier, also plans Tail Winds Ltd, the Isle of after Ryanair said earlier this the Indian carrier. to launch a regional airline in Man-based investment vehicle of month the EU Commission had Abu Dhabi’s Etihad has India in a venture with the Tata Jet founder Naresh Goyal, cur- told it of its intention to block the already paid a “token” amount of group, marking a return to avia- rently holds 79.99 percent of Jet 694-million-euro ($917 million) $70m, and will likely pay $400m tion for India’s biggest business Airways. bid to seize control of Ireland’s in the first tranche of the deal, house, and betting on potential According to Indian rules, 75-year-old former flag carrier. the channel reported. Etihad growth despite near-term issues. foreign companies can hold a The veto, which is the first said it did not have an immedi- Etihad, launched in 2003, is on maximum 49 percent stake in time the Commission has twice ate comment. a buying spree to compete with local carriers, but so-called non- rejected a proposed takeover, Indian TV channels said Etihad regional rivals Emirates and resident Indians like Goyal are was expected to force Ryanair had bought Jet’s slots at London’s Qatar Airways. The Gulf car- exempted. chief Michael O’Leary to decide Heathrow airport for $70m, but rier has taken stakes in Virgin Goyal is likely to convert shares whether to finally set its smaller did not say whether that was a Australia and Aer Lingus and owned by its holding company rival free by selling its 30 percent part of the stake buy agreement. raised its shareholding in Air into his personal stake to comply stake. Jet shares were up 17.3 percent Berlin and Air Seychelles. with foreign investment regu- But by following through on a as of 0831 GMT, after having risen Top executives from Etihad and lations, an Indian government threat to try to be the first com- as much as 19.7 percent earlier in Jet met Indian ministers earlier source has said. pany in a decade to overturn the day. Shares of smaller rival this month, but the deal faced a As a foreign company, Tail an EU anti-monopoly decision, SpiceJet also surged 9.4 percent set-back later as the Gulf carrier’s Winds cannot engage in share Ryanair could tie up the stake for to 37.85 rupees. chairman said the deal needs to trades with another foreign com- years and stymie the Irish govern- The Jet-Etihad deal would be revised. pany but Goyal can sell his per- ment’s efforts to offload its own 25 A Gulf Petrochem storage terminal on the coast of the strategic emirate be the first since India relaxed Jet shares have fallen more sonal stake. REUTERS percent holding. “We believe that we have strong of Fujeirah, on the Arabian sea, outside the Strait of Hormuz. grounds for appealing and over- turning this politically-inspired prohibition,” a Ryanair spokes- China has till June for trade deal: EU man said in a statement. European shares bounce back “We regret that this prohi- BRUSSELS: China has until June 7 to negotiate a deal with the bition is manifestly motivated European Union on state subsidies for solar panels and mobile tel- by narrow political interests ephone networks or face possible punitive measures, the EU’s trade rather than competition con- after Italy wobble; US stocks rise chief said yesterday. cerns ... Accordingly, Ryanair European Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht told a Reuters has instructed its legal advisers to LONDON/DUBAI: European bond purchases, helped US stocks Rajhi Bank up 0.4 percent, Saudi Summit on the future of the euro zone the Chinese had told Brussels prepare a comprehensive appeal.” shares found firmer footing yes- rebound from their worst decline Basic Industries Corp (SABIC) they wanted to negotiate an amicable solution to EU concerns over The bid, described by Ryanair terday, having tumbled lower in since November. On Wall Street, gaining 0.3 percent and SABB alleged trade distortions in the two cases. as its third and final effort to the previous session after the the Dow Jones industrial average rising 1.2 percent. The EU executive is preparing a report on the impact of Chinese takeover its rival, included ceding inconclusive Italian election, as was up 127.05 points, or 0.91 per- A recovery in oil prices helped government support for solar panel manufacturers following a com- 43 routes to a newly created Irish investors used the opportunity cent, at 14,027.18. The Standard sentiment in the largest exporting plaint by Germany’s Solar World. subsidiary of British airline Flybe to buy back in on beaten down & Poor’s 500 Index was up 14.72 Opec member. Brent crude traded That could lead to the imposition of punitive import tariffs if the and handing to British Airways assets. The FTSEurofirst 300 points, or 0.98 percent, at 1,511.66. near $113 a barrel on Wednesday, Commission determines that Chinese panels benefit from state sub- the routes Aer Lingus operates closed up 10.33 points, or 0.9 per- The Nasdaq Composite Index was edging up from a one-month low. sidies, allowing them to be sold below cost and pushing out EU firms. from London’s Gatwick Airport. cent at 1,160.58, led by strength up 32.36 points, or 1.03 percent, at UAE investors shifted focus to “Provisional duties have to be decided before June 7, and before in benchmark indexes in Italy 3,162.01. Abu Dhabi banks, which are set to the end of the year you have a final decision. And that’s setting the and Spain, which had fallen 4.9 US economic data also under- pay the strongest dividends in the timeframe (for negotiation),” De Gucht said. “That’s also setting the Norway raises oil and 3.2 percent, respectively, on pinned the market, with durable country. First Gulf Bank rose 4.2 timeframe for mobile networks.” Tuesday after the election stale- goods orders excluding trans- percent; the lender will pay a 0.8 “It is the Chinese who have requested that we would have negotia- and gas estimates mate renewed concerns about portation increasing 1.9 percent, dirham cash dividend early next tions on a possible amicable solution. We have already have contacts, the euro zone’s future. the largest gain since December month. Abu Dhabi Commercial we have already sent people to Beijing, and the Chinese already came OSLO: Norway yesterday raised “There’s a lot of money ready 2011, and well above economists’ Bank gained 3.3 percent. to Brussels,” he said. REUTERS its estimate of undiscovered oil to go in on the dips and people expectations of a 0.2 percent gain. Abu Dhabi’s index climbed 1.7 and gas by 15 percent, most of it do tend to invest by looking in Another report yesterday showed percent, up for a fifth session in in the waters of the Barents Sea the rear-view mirror and there’s that contracts to buy previously the last six and reaching its high- once disputed by Russia. The nothing that increases confidence owned homes approached a near est close since November 2009. 5,353 vessels docked at Qatari Ports in 2011 additional resources, most of more than a market that has per- three-year high last month Dubai’s Emaar Properties led DOHA: Mesaieed Port saw the maximum number of vessels docked which are natural gas, amount formed well,” Peter Clark, chief Egypt’s bourse fell to a fresh the rally on that bourse, rising at Qatari ports in 2011. A total of 2112 vessels docked in the port to around 2.5 billion barrels of investment officer at Igenious four-week low as political ten- 1.8 percent. Buyers returned during the year followed by Ras Laffan port with 1,944 vessels. oil equivalent (boe), according Asset Management, said. sion from opposition boycotting after Tuesday’s 2.5 percent loss The total number of arriving and departing vessels docked at five to the Norwegian Petroleum Data on US housing and durable upcoming parliamentary elections on a dividend disappointment. different ports has gone up to 5,353. Their gross tonnage amounted Directorate. goods added to bullish sentiment weighed on investors sentiment, “Yesterday’s drop happened on to 272.7m, an increase of 14.8 percent compared with the preceding The increased reserve esti- in stocks. The US benchmark while most Gulf markets recov- tiny volumes - that means inves- year. Net tonnage was 119.0m, an increase of 16.8 percent compared mates follow the 2011 signing of S&P 500 was up more than 1 per- ered losses from the previous tors remain bullish on the stock,” with the preceding year. Main types of vessels were oil and gas tank- an agreement between Norway cent. Bernanke’s comments came session. Cairo’s index slipped 0.6 Abu Shakra said. The emirate’s ers amounting to 2694 vessels with a tonnage of 230.1m, an increase and Russia on their maritime in his second day of testimony in percent to its lowest close since benchmark closed 0.7 percent of 17.4 percent compared with 2010 figures. border in the Barents Sea after Congress. His defence on Tuesday January 29. In Saudi Arabia, higher, extending 2013 gains to Main vessels’ country of registration was Panama with 921 vessels, a 40-year dispute, granting the of the Fed’s monetary stimulus, the measure gained 0.2 percent, 19.5 percent. Qatar’s measure followed by Marshal Islands with 587 vessels and Liberia with 349 Scandinavian country an area which eased worries over a possi- recovering from a three-week low. fell 0.9 percent to its lowest close vessels, according to latest Qatar Statistics Authority (QSA) data. covering some 44,000 sq km. ble early retreat from its policy of Large-caps gained with Al since January 2. REUTERS THE PENINSULA AGENCIES THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 26 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MARKET

QE Indices Summary QE Index 8,491.56 0.94 % WORLD STOCK INDICES GOLD & SILVER EXCHANGE QE Total Return Index 11,811.43 0.30 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 2,548.42 0.19 % RATE QE All Share Index 2,102.07 0.16 % INDEX Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low QE All Share Banks & Financial 2,014.92 0.14 % GOLD Buying Selling Services All Ordinaries 5021.797 -50.949 -1 5123 4664.6 QE All Share Consumer Goods & 4,989.4 0.03 % QR186.8401 US$ ...... QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 Services Cac 40 Index/D 3635.21 -86.12 -2.31 3793.26 3601.05 UK ...... QR 5.4692 QR 5.5492 QE All Share Industrials 2,770.64 0.78 % SILVER QE All Share Insurance 1,945.79 1.36 % Dj Indu Average 13784.17 -216.4 -1.55 14081.6 12035.1 QR 3.3812 Euro ...... QR 4.7159 QR 4.8114 QE All Share Real Estate 1,602.7 0.11 % CA$ ...... QR 3.5161 QR 3.5909 Egypt Cma Gn Idx 1026.29 32.57 3.28 999.95 312.38 QE All Share Telecoms 1,164.72 0.48 % Swiss Fr ...... QR 3.8662 QR 3.9543 QE All Share Transportation 1,428.2 0.12 % Hang Seng Inde/D 22519.69 -300.39 -1.32 23944.74 22674.59 Yen ...... QR 0.0391 QR 0.0401 QE Market Summary Comparison Aus$ ...... QR 3.7735 QR 3.6801 Iseq Overall/D 3698.75 -10.02 -0.27 3733.41 3396.67 CRUDE OIL Today Previous day Ind Re ...... QR 0.0667 QR 0.0682 27-02-2013 26-02-2013 Karachi 100 In/D 17894.89 -125.61 -0.7 18175.65 16036.31 Index 8,491.56 8,572.37 BRENT Pak Re ...... QR 0.0368 QR 0.0375 Change 80.81 80.70 Nikkei 225 Index 11398.81 -263.71 -2.26 11662.52 10398.61 Peso ...... QR 0.0878 QR 0.0905 % 0.94 0.93 $111.65 SL Re ...... QR 0.0283 QR 0.0289 YTD% 1.59 2.55 S&P 500 Index/D 0 0 0 1530.94 1266.74 DUBAI Taka ...... QR 0.0457 QR 0.0466 Volume 5,444,388 8,084,358 Straits Times/D 3254.26 -34.5 -1.05 3319.19 3160.83 Nep Re ...... QR 0.0420 QR 0.0428 Value (QAR) 233,141,911.54 275,190,487.31 $110.26 Trades 3,140 4,059 SA Rand ...... QR 0.4088 QR 0.4170 Straits Times/D 2989.31 24.69 0.83 3035.78 2657.77 Up 11 | Down 20 | Unchanged 07

QATAR EXCHANGE | DAILY TRADING REPORT | 27-02-2013

INTERNATIONAL MARKETS A List of Shares from the world

COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED

A C C-A/D 1295.35 -8.7 22507 Colgate-A/D 1294.35 -9.95 12124 Hous Dev Fin-A/D 772.15 -30 111601 Lloyd Steel-B/D 12 -0.4 56821 Tanfac Indust-/D 15 -0.05 6098 Land Secs Grou/D 815.5 -15.5 569026 Aban Offs-B/D 290.3 -9.9 60234 Container Cor-/D 1012.95 22.05 4953 I F C I-A/D 30.95 -2 3485429 Lok.Hous&Con-T/D 19.85 -0.4 5977 Tanfac Indust-/D 15 -0.05 6098 Legal & Genera/D 155.6 -3.9 4180216 Aegis Logis-B/D 133.2 -8.95 11955 Dai-Bichi Kar-/D 39.5 -0.55 1489 Idbi-A/D 93.75 -1.55 118200 Lupin-A/D 596.9 -13 46634 Thirumalai-B/D 103.7 -8.3 2482 Lloyds Bnk Grp/D 53.2813 -1.62 59707623 Ahmed.Forg-B/D 121.5 -4.8 2256 Dcm Financia-B/D 1.44 -0.06 1949 Ifb Agro-B/D 175.5 -2.6 4874 Lyka Labs-B/D 10.45 0.14 7425 Timexgroup-T/D 17.15 -0.45 15436 Marks & Sp./D 362.9 -5 2646719 Alembic-B/D 16.25 -0.2 30476 Dcm Shram Ind-/D 40.7 -1.45 2401 Ifb Ind.Ltd.-B/D 94.75 -1.45 25144 Mah.Seamless-B/D 203.6 -2.4 8707 Tinplate-B/D 44.75 -1.2 20064 Next/D 4144 -32 131186 Alkyl Amines-B/D 143.5 0.65 9192 Dhampur Sugar-/D 44.45 -2.6 7555 India Cement-B/D 85 0 83492 Maha Scooter-B/D 438.8 -11 2113 Ub Engineer-B/D 19.7 -1.3 12898 Pearson/D 1164 -7 1324450 Alok Indus-B/D 8.88 -0.4 1491088 Dr. Reddy-A/D 1765.9 -38.3 8521 India Glycol-B/D 133.1 0.15 6198 Mangalam Cem-B/D 140 -3 9736 Ub Engineer-B/D 19.7 -1.3 12898 Prudential/D 946.45 -18.5 1397235 Andhra Paper-B/D 206.95 -0.25 6528 E I H-B/D 65.1 -1 12311 Indian Hotel-A/D 56.9 -0.8 74582 Mastek-B/D 129 -7.65 2356 Ucal Fuel-B/D 60.6 -0.7 2068 Rank Group/D 164.5 -0.5 8605 Apollo Tyre-A/D 84.9 -3.85 139709 E.I.D Parry-B/D 147.95 -6.35 10181 Indusind-A/D 422.3 -4.7 54380 Max India L-A/D 238.6 -5.65 6016 Ucal Fuel-B/D 60.6 -0.7 2068 Rentokil Initi/D 91.58 -0.95 844096 Asahi I Glass-/D 50.8 -0.1 6714 Electrosteel-B/D 20.2 -0.3 87521 J.B.Chemical-B/D 81.45 0.05 12716 Mrpl-A/D 57.3 -0.8 39756 Ultramarine-B/D 54.95 0.35 11593 Rolls Royce Pl/D 1027 -2 1358693 Ashok Leyland-/D 22.65 -0.65 654936 Emco-B/D 23.1 -0.8 21270 Jagson Phar-B/D 10.52 -0.93 18932 Nahar Spg.-B/D 72.7 -1.2 17603 Unitech P -A/D 28.65 -0.65 2813625 Rsa Insrance G/D 118.85 -1.9 5926690 Ballarpur In-B/D 18.35 -0.25 36241 Escorts-B/D 61.5 -0.7 73189 Jamnaauto-B/D 79.5 1.45 1909 Nation Alum -A/D 44.95 -0.65 31511 Univcable-B/D 37.55 0.5 1878 Sainsbury(J)/D 342.8 -3.8 1381992 Banaras Bead-T/D 40.8 -0.95 3054 Essar Oil-A/D 83.2 -1.7 442487 Jbf Indu-B/D 105.55 -0.75 18958 Navneet Pub.-B/D 61.8 -0.6 14185 Uppergsugar-B/D 41.7 -0.35 2744 Schroders/D 1953 -91 234733 Bata India-A/D 759.1 -27.55 32875 Eveready Indu-/D 19.1 -0.7 100669 Jct Elect P -B/D 0.5 -0.03 145157 Nepc India-B/D 2.29 0.01 5419 Severn Trent/D 1593.8274 -18 150238 Beml Ltd-B/D 241.65 -6.95 77213 F D C-B/D 92.6 -0.2 23186 Jct Ltd-B/D 1.22 -0.03 47315 Nrb Bearings-B/D 32.8 -1.2 5444 LONDON Smith&Nephew/D 697.5 -8 498614 Bh Electronic-/D 1138.65 -44.95 2564 Federal Bank-A/D 493.65 -1.9 17793 Jenson&Nich.-B/D 3.3 0.05 9556 O N G C-A/D 306.3 -11.9 282372 Smiths Group/D 1224 -26 176696 Bhartiya Int-T/D 172.3 -4.2 19182 Ferro Alloys-B/D 6.06 0 80575 Jik Indust-B/D 1.69 0 5121 Ocl India-B/D 150.8 0.1 5196 3I Group/D 305.4 -8.1 1055254 Standrd Chart /D 1753.875 -16 1980256 Bhel-A/D 202.1 -5.45 537046 Finolex-B/D 89.6 -0.85 131510 Jindal Drill-B/D 214.6 -8.4 3695 Oil Country-B/D 42.05 -1.1 1728 Assoc.Br.Foods/D 1814 -1 357575 B Sky Tate & Lyle/D 794 -6.5 324051 Bom.Burmah-B/D 104.85 -9.25 62078 Gail-A/D 339.55 -3.75 49779 Jktyre&Ind-B/D 106.3 -2.2 2984 Onward Tech-T/D 41.9 -3.1 13830 B/D 823.125 -2.5 1270654 Tesco/D 365.25 -8.7 9058687 Bombay Dyeing-/D 94.3 -2.2 106797 Gammon India-B/D 27.4 -0.5 29102 Kabra Extr-B/D 28.3 -0.2 1591 Orchid Chem-B/D 65 -1.65 82745 Barclays/D 298.0532 -13.65 60371041 Tomkins/D 0 0 0 Cable Corp.-B/D 18.7 -0.15 2170 Gangotri Tex-T/D 2.25 -0.09 3505 Kajaria Cer-B/D 199.4 0.75 2395 Orient Hotel-B/D 19.4 -0.75 1674 Bg Group/D 1155 -14 1871250 Unilever/D 2593.4041 -34 1161941 Camph.& All-B/D 155.7 -3.55 2672 Goodricke-B/D 142.6 -3.7 14480 Kalpat Power-B/D 76.25 -4.1 14012 Orient.Carb.-B/D 98.55 2.05 3164 Bp/D 442.1 -9.05 7704247 United Util Gr/D 729 -6.5 599536 Castrol Ind-A/D 317.25 -0.6 21384 Goodyear I -B/D 286.95 0.7 3126 Kalyani Stel-B/D 46.15 -1.55 31569 Orient.Carb.-B/D 98.55 2.05 3164 Brit Am Tobacc/D 3421.5 -6 792594 Century Enka-B/D 111.3 0.65 9413 Hcl Infosys-B/D 33.3 -0.55 75145 Kg Denim-T/D 13.99 -0.03 11552 Oudh Sugar-B/D 22.7 -1.25 1563 Vodafone Group/D 162.75 -1.35 30446677 British Airway/D 276.4574 0 0 Century Text-A/D 338.55 -17.35 89568 Him.Fut.Comm-B/D 8.28 -0.02 219112 Kilburnengg-B/D 12.8 -0.75 7235 Patspin India-/D 6.68 -0.56 4164 Whitbread/D 2473 -90 809710 Bt Group/D 267.3 -4.4 14185150 Chambal Fert-B/D 61.7 -1.35 111535 Himat Seide-B/D 33.1 -1.45 8964 Kin.Motor-B/D 9.07 -0.28 3657 Radico Khait-B/D 138.05 -0.75 38948 Centrica/D 348.875 -0.4 2885051 Chola Invest-B/D 290 1.3 917266 Hind Motors-B/D 9.11 -0.28 197628 Kinetic Eng-T/D 102.55 -0.45 7021 Rallis India-B/D 119.65 -2.6 40536 Gkn/D 253.9 1.6 4647768 Chowgule St-B/D 14.05 -1.45 13140 Hind Org Chem-/D 13.8 -0.55 23627 Klg Systel-T/D 15.2 0.15 3502 Rallis India-B/D 119.65 -2.6 40536 Hsbc Holdings/D 713.1552 -16.7 9330913 Cipla-A/D 361.5 -8.85 284327 Hind Unilever-/D 452.5 0.5 134857 Kopran-B/D 15.4 -0.95 17570 Reliance Indus/D 378.65 -10.2 50890 Imperial Tobac/D 2351.6036 -2 850816 City Union Bk-/D 57 -1.2 32080 Hind.Petrol-A/D 300.35 -11.35 116842 Lakshmi Elec-B/D 158.25 -6.95 3399 Ruchi Soya-B/D 64.65 0.45 12072 Cmc Ltd-B/D 1377.7 65.65 10278 Hindalco-A/D 102 -4.8 1947732 Lloyd Metal-B/D 14.1 0 2825 S Bk Bikaner-B/D 432.65 -11.05 6093 Kingfisher/D 273.2 -7 3454488

THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 30 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

Snooker: James, Wade help Heat Pakistan to revive rivalry with India ISLAMABAD: Pakistan topple Kings in overtime snooker authorities yester- daygot clearance from the government to revive fixtures Pacers win fifth consecutive match after beating Warriors 108-97 against arch-rivals India after a gap of eight years, with a series planned for next MIAMI: LeBron James and month. Dwyane Wade combined for The neighbours have not 79 points as the Miami Heat played a snooker series since prevailed 141-129 in a double 2005, when India visited. All overtime marathon against the sporting ties were frozen after Sacramento Kings yesterday. the deadly attacks on Mumbai James scored 40 points, a in 2008 which were blamed on career-high 16 assists and eight Pakistan-based militants. rebounds while Wade tacked Cricketing ties were revived on 39 to rescue the Eastern after a gap of five years when Conference leading Heat (41-14) Pakistan toured India in and give them a league-high 12th December-January for a short consecutive victory. limited-overs series. “It was probably like 20 innings Pakistan Snooker and if it were a baseball game,” James Billiards Association presi- told reporters. “But we needed dent Alamgeer Shaikh said he double overtime and we did it.” met Interior Minister Rehman While on paper it figured to be Malik, who gave his approval an easy win for the Heat over the for India to tour. Conference’s last-place team, the “I am thankful to the minis- Kings made things tough for their ter for allowing us to host the high-flying opponents. Indian team,” Shaikh said. Miami led 110-101 with just “Our efforts have been over two minutes left in the successful and we hope that fourth quarter before visiting snooker series will go a long Sacramento (19-39) ran them way in reviving other sports as down with an 11-2 run that well,” he added. included three consecutive three- Miami Heat’s Dwyane Wade (right) goes past Sacramento Kings’ Travis Outlaw (left), DeMarcus Cousins (centre) and Patrick Patterson during the first A four-member Indian team pointers from Marcus Thornton, half of their NBA basketball game in Miami, Florida, yesterday. RIGHT: LeBron James (left) of the Miami Heat works up the crowd during the game. will arrive in Karachi on March who had a team-high 36 points. 6 and will play the series from After both teams scored 12 March 7-10, with the format to points in the first overtime, James rebounds but they were outshone double-figure scoring Tuesday be decided next week. tallied 11 points in the second as by Miami’s high-scoring duo. including Hibbert, who was The popularity of snooker is the home team outscored the James became the first player ejected in the fourth quarter after rising fast, with India produc- Kings 17-5 to finally put the game to total 40 points and 16 assists getting into a pushing match with ing world amateur champion away. since Phoenix’s Kevin Johnson in the Warriors’ David Lee before Pankaj Advani in 2003 and “We had every opportunity to April 1994. players from both teams joined Pakistan’s Mohammad Asif the win that game but it didn’t fall our Meanwhile, the Indiana Pacers the fray. current title holder. way this time,” said Sacramento won their fifth-consecutive game “No punches were thrown. It The Indian hockey team is coach Keith Smart. “I thought our by beating the Golden State was just two teams competing also scheduled to visit Pakistan guys stayed right there.” Warriors 108-97 behind a 28-point hard. Two teams trying to win,” for a series next month. AFP Sacramento starters Tyreke effort by David West. Lee said Evans scored 26 and DeMarcus Paul George finished with 21 Pacers forward Danny Granger, Cousins recorded 24 and 15 points and 11 boards and George who is still trying to shake off Hill had 23 points and six assists the rust of a long layoff, made his Rugby: Scotland NBA Results for the Pacers, who halted Golden home debut on Tuesday, scor- State’s modest win streak at three ing five points on one-for-seven Orlando 98 Philadelphia 84 success excites National Basketball Association shooting. Indiana 108 Golden State 97 games. Granger made his anticipated Maitland Miami 141 Sacramento 129 Roy Hibbert finished with 13 season debut on Saturday in a Cleveland 101 Chicago 98 points, nine rebounds and five 90-72 victory over the Detroit Brooklyn 101 New Orleans 97 blocks for the Pacers, who have Pistons. EDINBURGH: New Zealand- Golden State Warriors’ guard Stephen Curry (right) dribbles around Milwaukee 95 Dallas 90 won 10 of their last 12 games and Stephen Curry scored a game- born Scotland wing Sean have posted five straight wins in high 38 points, but also had a half Indiana Pacers’ guard DJ Augustin during the first half of their NBA Maitland believes last week’s Phoenix 84 Minnesota 83 a row twice this month. dozen of Golden States’ 20 turno- basketball game in Indianapolis, Indiana, yesterday. Six Nations win over Ireland LA Clippers 106 Charlotte 84 Indiana had four players in vers. AGENCIES could be the start of a new era for a side under the caretaker charge of Australian coach Scott Johnson. Sunday’s gutsy 12-8 win at Murrayfield on Sunday followed Cycling: Russia plans major a victory over Italy and saw Scotland enjoying back-to-back Six Nations successes for the first time since 2001. Tour with Red Square finish It also left Scotland level on four points with second-placed MOSCOW: Russia is planning a world-class velo- impact in road racing, however, while Russia also Wales in the table, and just two drome on the site of the 2014 Winter Olympics has its own Katusha road racing team. But the behind leaders England. and hopes to create a Tour of Russia with a Red country has never been considered a great force “It’s a pretty great feeling,” said Square finish to promote the sport, its cycling in the big European tours. Maitland, drafted in by Johnson federation chief said yesterday. Makarov also revealed that he was also planning this season. “This is just the start The head of Russia’s cycling body, Igor Makarov, to stage a professional Tour of Russia -- an annual for our team.” told reporters that the federation’s plans to reno- multiple-stage race. Scotland’s defeat of Ireland was vate the country’s cycling infrastructure with a Sochi, the western city of Saint Petersburg and a triumph of team spirit, with the view to staging major events had received full back- the capital Moscow would be ready to host the Irish dominating more than 70 ing from the government. stages of any race soon after the 2014 Sochi Games percent and territory and scoring He said that Russia’s cycling ambitions would end, he added. the only try of the match through be centred around 2014 Winter Olympics host city “I believe a professional race with its overall fin- wing Craig Gilroy. Sochi, a resort on the Black Sea with a temperate ish in Red Square in front of Moscow’s ancient But they failed to kill the game Kyle Chipchura (24) of the Phoenix Coyotes celebrates after scoring a climate and surrounded by huge mountains. Kremlin would attract the attention of millions of off and Scotland, from 8-0 down goal against goalie Cory Schneider (35) of the Vancouver Canucks during “We decided to transform one of the skating sport lovers everywhere,” he said. early in the second half, saw their the first period of their NHL match at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, British rinks which are now under construction in Sochi “I believe such a race will also seriously boost forwards provide a platform for Columbia, Canada, yesterday. into a top-class cycling racing track after the end cycling’s popularity in Russia,” said Makarov, a scrum-half Greig Laidlaw to kick of 2014 Olympics,” he said. former Soviet champion-turned-businessman who them into a winning position with “We need it desperately, as none of the existing is an influential figure in cycling. four penalties. racing tracks in Russia fit the strict demands for Makarov said he wanted to concentrate on the Ireland did have one final Chipchura scores brace the Olympic cycling track. development of cycling in Russia, adding there was chance to salvage a win but with “Besides, we’re going to create a great cycling much to do to revive the winning traditions of the 80 minutes up and in the last centre in the city using the classy highways which Soviet era. play of the game, debutant centre are currently being constructed there for the “After the fall of Soviet Union, the cycling infra- Luke Marshall knocked in sight of as Coyotes beat Canucks Games.” structure in the country fell into decay,” he said. Scotland’s try-line. Russia has made little impact in track cycling in “It’s a miracle that Russian cyclists managed to “I was really scared,” said VA NCOU V ER: Phoenix center hangs on to leads pretty well and recent years, as advances in technology and train- win medals at the Olympic Games, the world and Maitland. “I thought they were Kyle Chipchura scored twice we coughed up two on this trip,” ing by the likes of Britain and Australia left other European championships under the existing situa- going to get in for a try. But to as the Coyotes beat Vancouver Chipchura told reporters. “We nations with less funding trailing in their wake. tion. We need to work out a plan of cycling revival hold out and show our courage on 4-2 yesterday to prolong the looked at it like we could get three Some racers like Denis Menchov have made an in Russia and put it into practice day by day.”AFP defence was very pleasing. Canucks’ troubles at home. points out of this (three-game “It just shows the character of Chipchura net- road) swing and the men in this side.” ted the first and make it a decent Meanwhile, Scotland prop Ryan last goals of the NHL Results trip.” Grant hailed Johnson’s decision to game, giving the Winnipeg 4 NY Rangers 3 Mikkel move Laidlaw back to his more visitors a lead Washington 3 Carolina 0 Boedker scored Farah unfazed by flummoxed reporter familiar position of scrum-half. in the opening Dallas 5 Columbus 4 in the second, Laidlaw has been playing at fly- period before Boston 4 NY Islanders 1 and Antoine half for much of the season with closing the door Buffalo 2 Tampa Bay 1 Vermette in the LOS ANGELES: Double which earned him a live inter- appearance in New Orleans. The club side Edinburgh but, follow- on Vancouver in third to provide Olympic gold medallist Mo view with local WSDU television good-natured Somali-born Farah ing the Test retirement of former Florida 6 Pittsburgh 4 the final seconds a 3-1 advantage Farah appeared perplexed but reporter LaTonya Norton. modestly made no mention in the Scotland No 9 Mike Blair, Johnson of the third. Minnesota 2 Calgary 1 for the Coyotes, kept his poise after being asked “Now haven’t you run before?” Sunday interview -- which pro- installed him at scrum-half. The Coyotes Phoenix 4 Vancouver 2 who held firm by a New Orleans television pre- asked Norton, who also confused voked a spate of internet chat- And the way Laidlaw, the had recently San Jose 3 Colorado 2 behind Mike senter if he had ever run before. the half-marathon with the mar- ter -- of his London gold medal nephew of Scotland scrum-half blown leads in Smith’s 29 saves. Britain’s Farah, the 5,000 athon. “Haven’t you run before? heroics. great Roy Laidlaw, directed his close losses to Edmonton and The Canucks were unable metres and 10,000 metre champ This isn’t your first time.” Farah won the race in a British pack as well as dictating play Calgary but were able to hold on to rebound positively from in the 2012 Summer Olympics, Farah grinned and said he national record time of 61 min- when his side did get their hands against the Canucks. Sunday’s 8-3 blowout at Detroit. won the New Orleans Rock ‘n’ had competed in half-marathons utes, also a record for the course. on the ball, suggested Johnson had “We’re a team that usually REUTERS Roll half-marathon in record time previously but this was his first AFP made a smart call. AFP THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 31

Horse Racing: Qatar International Equestrian Festival

Jockey Naif K Alanazi riding Suwaida (right) crosses jockey Hyeok Lee who is riding Fiha to finish first in the P/A HANDICAP RATED 40 AND BELOW QAJIR race meeting during the Qatar International Equestrian Festival at the Qatar Racing Equestrian Club, yesterday. RIGHT: Two participants take part in a race. Today is the final day of the Equestrian festival with seven races set to take place including the H H The Emir Sword Race. PICTURES BY: QASSIM RAHMATULLAH Wozniacki Li Na’s ankle Tennis: Nadal denies he suffers recovery shock loss in going slower will miss Indian Wells Malaysia than hoped

KUALA LUMPUR: Former HONG KONG: China’s Li Na The world No.5 beats Schwartzman 6-2, 6-2 in Acapulco world number one Caroline will miss an exhibition match Wozniacki suffered one of her in Hong Kong after an ankle worst career defeats when she injury she sustained in last MADRID: Rafael Nadal (pic- media yesterday. The 11-time rustiness on his return so far as bowed out of the Malaysia Open month’s Australian Open final tured) has denied Spanish Grand Slam champion insisted, he reached the final in his first to 186th-ranked Chinese quali- failed to respond well enough media reports that he will however, that his main objective tournament in Chile, before win- fier Qiang Wang yesterday. to treatment, organisers said not take part in the Masters was still finding full fitness and ning the Brazil Open. The Dane, top seed at the event yesterday. Series events in Indian Wells form before a busy stretch of However, the World No.5 insists in Kuala Lumpur, cruised through The announcement comes and Miami next month, as he European clay court tournaments it is taking some time to recover the opening set of her first round weeks after the world number returns from a serious knee leading up to the French Open at his best form after such a long clash and had a match point in five also withdrew from the $2.3m injury. the end of May. spell out. the second before going down 2-6, Qatar Open. Nadal only recently returned to “My day-to-day objective is to “You need to recover the speed 7-6, 6-1. The 31-year-old twisted her competition after a seven-month recuperate the knee until it gets and concentration that only Qualifier Wang, 21, allowed ankle twice during her three- layoff but has so far decided to back to 100 percent and I am able comes with competition and seven Wozniacki only one point in the set loss to Victoria Azarenka in play in clay court tournaments in to return to competing and full months without competing takes second set tiebreak as she levelled Melbourne just over one month Chile, Brazil and this week at the training as quickly as possible. If its toll,” he added. the match and rolled through ago and “has not responded Mexican Open in Acapulco. this happens then the objectives Nadal’s uncle and coach Toni the decider to claim her biggest enough to intense treatment”, “My intention is to go to Indian are the same as they have always Nadal also denied that any final careeer win. said a spokesman for the exhibi- Wells, my priority is to play there, been. decision had been taken on his Wang will face Austrian tion match. but if I don’t feel comfortable and “If I don’t recover, we will nephew’s schedule for March. Patricia Mayr-Achleitner next. Li was scheduled to face I’m not OK then I will have to take accept it and deal with it calmly “No decision has been taken “I tried to make her run more Denmark’s Caroline Wozniacki a decision,” he said after a 6-2, 6-2 and continue being positive. We and Rafe finished pretty well to take advantage of her illness at the BNP Paribas Showdown win over Sebastian Schwartzman will continue working so that in Sao Paulo after winning this and it paid off. This is the best in Hong Kong on March 4. in his opening match in Acapulco. when I am fine I can return to title in Brazil against David win of my career and it will give She said: “Unfortunately, “These media companies can- competing at the highest level in Nalbandian. Now it is just a ques- me more confidence,” the 21-year- the ankle injury I had in the not know more than me,” he a short space of time.” tion of monitoring how the knee old said about her first victory Australian Open final is still not was quoted as saying by Spanish Nadal has shown few signs of recovers,” he said. AFP over a top-10 player. AFP ready for me to compete.” AFP

Car crash injury forces Miyazato Heir Apparent Cup: Al out of HSBC Champions Arabi, Qatar SC win

SINGAPORE: Former winner BY DANOTZKI SANTOS Ai Miyazato pulled out of the HSBC Women’s Champions in DOHA: Qatar Sports Club Singapore yesterday as she bat- overcame Al Shamal’s fiery tles whiplash injuries from a car offensive in the homestretch crash which also left American to escape with a 75-67 win last star Paula Creamer struggling night in the Heir Apparent to recover. Cup (HAC) at the Al Gharafa The Japanese world number Sports Club yesterday. nine said she had stiffness in Al Shamal broke the match her neck, back and shoulders wide open early on with an after Sunday’s five-car pile-up in 11-point barrage coming off fast Bangkok as the players were en break plays while holding down route to the airport following the Qatar Club without a basket for Honda LPGA Thailand. nearly four minutes. “I still have some stiffness in Chauncey Leslie scored my neck, shoulder, and back area Qatar SC’s first field goal with but it is also a precautionary a trey but Al Shamal’s William measure so as not to risk further Tyvon countered with his own injury this early in the season,” bomber to make it 14-4 midway the 2010 champion said in a state- in the first period. ment, adding that she was “very The yellow shirts tightened disappointed”. up on their defence thereon and Creamer also cut short her managed to close in at 17-23 by appearance in yesterday’ pro-am the end of the quarter. to seek extra treatment. But the Leslie came out waxing hot American tweeted that she hoped at the start of the second and to tee-off when action starts steered a 12-2 onslaught to Al Shamal’s Bere Chukwudie (centre) attempts to shoot today. overcome the deficit and push a basket during his side’s Heir Apparent Cup 2013 World number one Tseng Yani his team to a 29-25 advantage. match at Al Gharafa Sports Club yesterday. Qatar SC’s heads a field featuring most of the Al Shamal threatened to Kevin Burleson (15) and Leslie La Mont (2) are also seen. globe’s best players at the $1.4m come back with a 7-4 spurt PICTURE BY: ABDUL BASIT event, considered the most pres- tigious women’s golf tournament in Asia. Heir Apparent and narrowed the gap at 32-33 easy time with Al Wakrah, run- The “Pride of Taiwan”, winless but Qatar SC padded their lead ning away with an 84-59 victory for nearly a year, has started the Cup Fixtures to 41-34 before the half-time that saw the HAC defending season with back-to-back top- Today’s Matches break. champions’ awesome backcourt three finishes, and believes stay- Al Gharafa Indoor Hall Both squads fought tooth tandem in AbdullaiJalloh and ing at number one was not her Al Gharafa vs Eljaish, and nail in third period with Mansour Elhadary combine for main concern. 5.00pm the red shirts making a head 42 points. “World number one is not as way to get back in contention at Al Arabi and Qatar SC are important as before now,” said the Al Rayyan vs Al Ahli, 55-58 entering the final canto. tied on top spot of Group 2 with 7.00pm 24-year-old yesterday. AFP Meanwhile, Al Arabi had an 1 win apiece. THE PENINSULA THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 32 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT New-look Losail Circuit to wow fans at MotoGP season-opener Losail Circuit gets a new grandstand, footbridge; VIP balcony also being spruced up

BY RIZWAN REHMAT

DOHA: The iconic Losail International Circuit, built at a reported cost of $75m, will present a new look when fans trudge in for the first round of the MX1 World Championship to be held tomorrow and the much-awaited MotoGP season- opener in April. The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) - with expert help coming in from a construction giant - is currently busy giving finishing touches to a new grandstand that boasts an additional 2,500 seats at the C 10-year-old race track. The construction team has fin- ished the footbridge linking the pit lane to the stands besides ren- ovating the existing VIP balcony. Associated hard and soft land- scaping work, however, will con- tinue even after the first round of the MX1 World Championship. According to Nasser bin Khalifa Al Attiyah, President of A QMMF, Losail Circuit will house nearly 8,000 fans once the new grandstand is completed in the Answer: We have 2,500 extra coming weeks. seats now. That will help us put “We are very close to finishing things in order for the fans who the new stand. It will be ready assemble in one corner during the for the MotoGP (in April),” Al start of the races at a MotoGP Attiyah said in an interview with leg. This time more fans will turn The Peninsula. up and will not have to squeeze D “We are pushing hard to keep in one tight spot. We have 5,000 A: Nasser bin Khalifa Al Attiyah, President of the Qatar Motor and things ready in time so that we in the main grandstand and add can celebrate our 10 edition of the another 2,500 - that takes the Motorcycle Federation (QMMF), shows the event calendar for February, MotoGP race in style,” he added. overall capacity to 7.500 seats. In in his office at Losail International Circuit. Excerpts from a detailed chat all, we will be able to accommo- B: MotoGP giant Valentino Rossi charges out of the pits during a free with Al Attiyah, who is also the date around 8,000 fans. practice session before last year’s Grand Prix of Qatar at the same venue. Vice President of FIM, the ruling Question: How was your Rossi rides for Yamaha. body in bike racing. experience of the motocross C: A view of the new grandstand under construction back in December Question: Tell us something earlier this month? 2012. about the new grandstand? Answer: That was really good. D: Ground view of the new grandstand nearing completion at Losail Answer: We have almost final- We worked on many new angles B International Circuit. ised every bit of the detail with on track because we were get- the construction company that is ting ready for this week’s first heading the project. We are very round of the FIM MX1 World Question: I believe you have on the marketing front. We are editions of the day race. In moto- have created in this country? close to finishing the new stand. Championship. My organisation delivered most of the project. very happy with the outcome of cross, we are jumping headlong Answer: We have reached It will be ready for the MotoGP team is busy making prepara- Answer: We are very happy our plans. I have a professional into a night race with no previous a figure of 69 events a year. We (in April). Additional work on the tions for the main event (to be that we have managed most of the group of people. My team has a experience. It is a big challenge. started with the MotoGP in 2004 balcony at the new grandstand will held on March 1 and 2). The trial work on time. You probably did great deal of experience in han- It has never happened before - and now we have 69 events on our finish soon. The bridge linking the event was stage to test our abil- not see much of the landscaping dling track and motocross events. the night race. We had 35 riders calendar of events. I am talking VIP Village and the grandstand is ity to stage a motocross leg and for the national round of moto- We can do set-ups for events eas- from 12 countries (during the about major events. So that’s a ready. That will help the access correct or minimize errors, if any. cross. But we will work on it after ily. We can plan our events with trial event two weeks ago). They lot of events to host for fans to for people inside the VIP area to We got tons of soil shipped to our we are done with the world cham- ease. The speed of my team is very came from the US, Europe, the come and watch. I am takling move around to the grandstand circuit. We had to build the fenc- pionship round. But this week impressive. They get a lot done GCC and other countries. That about auto and moto events. and vice versa. This will help peo- ing around the circuit. We had to you would obviously notice a lot and very quickly too. was a good chance to check out Mind you this calendar does not ple or fans who want to maybe build a VIP tent. Then there’s a of difference from what we saw Question: You have been medical teams and other safety include some of the marketing pick up a merchandise, they will spot for the officials of the race. two weeks ago. We are ready for exporting your expertise to areas that we take pride in. That side of activities. I am only talk- be able to do this with ease. The At the same time, we started the world championship leg. We other parts of the region. number (35) was a good number ing of major activities. We started bridge will help us save time and our national motocross cham- have a lot of experienced people Answer: Yes, we have been for us to test our track and the with MotoGP, the endurance, the money that we spend on going - pionship. Initially we thought it helping us out with the organi- doing it. In fact, we will only be ability of the medical teams, the Asian Road Racing Championship let’s say from the VIP area to the was easy. But when we started zation. The Chief of Marshals is the second country in Asia to be marshals, We needed to do that rounds at the circuit. Then we grandstand. Previously we had to the project we realised it was so from overseas and he has worked hosting a motocross leg. Thailand to see how we react if there’s an have staged Qatar International go all way through our main exit much of work. But we managed. at such events in Latin America. is the other country hosting an accident or a mishap on the track. Rally, the cross-country races, and then enter the grandstand We could have had this (track) We have trained our marshals event of this magnitude. In the It is a new challenge. I am sure we the Bajas, the local rallies, the from the parking area. For secu- near Sealine Beach resort but it also. The promoters (of this Middle East, Qatar is the first and will have good fun (this week). As sprints for cars and bikes, enduro rity purposes this new footbridge is easier to manage things inside series) bring their own clerk of only country to get to host a world you know, a week after the moto- races and then we have track day will help us filter fans in a better the Losail Circuit. Also, we were the course. So we have areas that championship leg. So, yes we are cross, the QMMF will jump to the activities. way. During mega events, there’s requested by the Arab Motorsport need our attention so that we are taking the lead in motocross also. Porsche Challenge series. We have Question: Did you think of all too much of traffic on both sides Federation to include a race for strong for future events. It was a We were the first country to stage no time to breathe. this in 2004? of the circuit. This will help us riders from the region. So we big challenge. We finished every- a night race in MotoGP. Now we Question: If I ask you to Answer: I mean, we were make things easier for the fans had two races for the national thing within two months. We’ve will be the first event country to recap what happened in the always climbing higher and higher who have to walk from one spot championship and one for the managed a new record. We have stage a motocross leg under lights. last nine years of activities at as our calendar of events became to another. These two segments Arab Championship. We touched finished setting up a new moto- We are focusing to have such Losail Circuit, what would you bigger and bigger every year. We of the new circuit will be the many areas during the trial event. cross circuit in just two months. records. In MotoGP, we hosted say? What would you say about are not pushing more than what attraction for the first MotoGP We tested the lighting system has When we signed the agreement, the first night race after five the motosport culture that you we can handle. I know what we of the (new) season. We are push- been set up for the world cham- it was nothing there. We are deal- are already managing is crazy ing hard to keep things ready in pionship round. We checked the ing with Talal company who are because if you check our calen- time so that we can celebrate our camera positions. We had to do building the grandstand, the VIP dar, we have no break for people. 10th edition of the MotoGP races that because television viewing is balcony and the bridge at the cir- Question: Who are the peo- in style. different from daylight to night cuit. We involved them because ple you would like to thank for Question: What’s the seating time. We checked the dark areas they are here. They have their this amazing journey so far? capacity of the new stand? to accommodate TV crews. own team. They are very active. Answer: For sure, I want to Question: How do you think thank everyone involved with fans are going to react to us: the employees at the circuit Night shot of Losail MX Track what they will see this week and the people involved with the and when they come for the federation and the ones who are MotoGP leg? None of this (new associated with our events. This motocross track and grand- includes the ministries who help stand) were there last year. us out with logistics and man- Answer: We are giving a new power, the media who has done look to our circuit. If you see the so well with their coverage. We bridge, you will get a different feel are one team. I am part of this to the circuit as you move away to team. My team is doing a great the new grandstand. And then we job. Sometimes I give them hard have the new VIP balcony. Fans projects and they deliver. So I will be amazed. For marketing know I am pushing them hard. purposes, we know our clients We are also doing a lot of projects will look for better mileage with around the circuit. To follow the these new additions. Previously steps on the engineering side VIP guests used to watch the is very hard. We are also doing race action from behind a glass activities for children by launch- window. Now, they can be out in ing an academy. In short it has the open and see everything in been a rollercoaster ride. Look front of them. You can take your ABOVE: A view of a motor sport website detailing stories and pictures of at this calendar (shows a chart food with you and yet watch the this week’s first round of the MX1 FIM World Motocross Championship of events). This just shows the A night shot of the new Losail MX Track situated inside the Losail race. It will be a new experience to be held at Losail International Circuit. QMMF is hosting this week’s events in one month. You can International Circuit. PICTURE COURTESY: YOUTHSTREAM for those in the VIP enclosure. landmark motocross race to be held under lights. also see the agenda for the entire We don’t want to lose in any way season. THE PENINSULA THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 33

AFC candidate Worawi seeks Al Rayyan, Esteghlal share support in south Asia

NEW DELHI: Asian Football Confederation (AFC) presiden- spoils in six-goal thriller tial candidate Worawi Makudi of Thailand reached out to the South Asian members of the conference yesterday but the Uzbekistan’s Bunyodkor stun Japanese giants Sanfrecce Hiroshima regional body said it has not made up its mind who to back yet. DOHA: Brazilian striker “He called me this morning Nilmar grabbed a late equaliser and we had a chat,” South Asian as Qatari side Al Rayyan came Football Federation (SAFF) from behind three times to earn President Kazi Salahuddin said a hard-fought point in a 3-3 draw without revealing the details of with Iranian giants Esteghlal in his discussion with the Thai. their Group D opener at the Al Two other candidates, Bahrain Rayyan Stadium yesterday. Football Association President Nilmar (Nilmar Honorato da Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Silva) struck just a minute after Khalifa and UAE chief Yousuf Iran captain Javad Nekounam, Al Serkal, had also approached who was playing in his first AFC him regarding the May 2 election, Champions League match since Salahuddin said. 2005, appeared to have won the “I just listened to them,” the match for the visitors with a SAFF chief said when asked if he penalty. had given his backing to a par- Jlloyd Samuel and Arash ticular candidate. Borhani were also on target for FIFA Executive Committee the Iranian side but their efforts member Worawi already has were cancelled out by a Rodrigo a headstart on his rivals after Tabata penalty and an own goal securing the support of 11 South- by Hami Omranzadeh. East Asian countries on Monday. Esteghlal had beaten Al Rayyan Saudi Arabian Hafez El Medle in both of their group stage meet- is the fourth candidate running ings last year and they were for the post, while AFC act- clearly the better side in the first ing president Zhang Jilong is half as they created the majority widely expected to join the race of the chances. by Sunday when the nomination They took the lead in the 27th deadline expires. minute when Mojtaba Jabari beat The AFC has been with- the offside trap on the right flank out a full-time president since and squared the ball to the edge Mohamed bin Hammam of Qatar of the box where Samuel was on was banned for life by FIFA for hand to fire a right-footed effort corruption and bribery. China’s past Al Rayyan goalkeeper Oumar Zhang has held the role of AFC Barry. Rodrigo Tabata (left) of Qatar’s Al Rayyan fights for the ball with Javad Nekonam of Iran’s Esteghlal during their AFC Champions League match at the acting president since May 2011. The visitors had an opportu- Al Rayyan Stadium in Doha, yesterday. The match ended in a 3-3 all draw. Salahuddin said the eight- nity to extend their lead in the member SAFF would wait for the 33rd minute when Nekounam’s a long pass by Jlloyd Samuel minute penalty. The spot kick was Victor Simoes scored in the 35th made them worthy winners in final list of nominees before decid- cross from the right was headed found Borhani who sprung the awarded after Hamid Ismaeil had and 90th minute for the home Hiroshima. ing which candidate to support. by Siavash Akbarpour onto the Al Rayyan offside trap before he fouled Farzad Hatami in the area side. Oleksandr Pyshur struck on the “We will have to see which way crossbar. fired a right-footed shot into the and Nekounam made no mistake Meanwhile, Uzbekistan’s stroke of half-time to put the visi- the wind blows,” Salahuddin said. That miss looked to be costly top of the net. as he slotted the ball past Barry. Bunyodkor provided the biggest tors ahead but it wasn’t until the “We have not yet decided whom to when Al Rayyan got back on Al Rayyan were an improved But the celebrations of the upset of this year’s fledgling AFC 86th minute that Bunyodkor could support. We’ll have to see the final terms three minutes later after side after the break and they visitors were cut shot as just a Champions League when they be sure of the win, when Fozil list, think what would be good for they had been awarded a penalty equalised for the second time in minute later when Nilmar played shocked J-League title-holders Musaev doubled their advantage. South Asian football. for Hanif Omranzadeh’s handball. the 58th minute when Tabata’s a quick one-two with Ahmed Sanfrecce Hiroshima 2-0 away The victory extends Bunyodkor’s “The election is in May, so Tabata duly fired the spot kick free-kick from 30 metres took a Alaaeldin before he fired past match yesterday. fine form in the Asian competi- we have some time before that. past Mahdi Rahmati to make it deflection off Sepahan defender Mahdi Rahmati from close range. Despite last year’s run to the tion after they overturned three Maybe we’ll have a meeting in 1-1. Omranzadeh on its way into the In Sharayea, Al Gharafa lost semi-finals the Uzbek cup-win- former champions last year before mid-April where we’ll decide.” However, Esetehglal would net. 2-0 to Al Ahli of Saudi Arabia. ners were considered underdogs being halted by eventual winners Considered a bin Hammam ally, regain the lead in stoppage time Esteghlal would go ahead for The winners struck once in against the Japanese champi- Ulsan Hyundai in the last four. Worawi could sew up 19 of the 46 at the end of the first half when the third time with an 86th each half. Mustafa Besas and ons, but a late goal in each half AGENCIES votes if he wins SAFF support. In 2011, FIFA launched a for- AFC Champions mal investigation after he was Ferguson accused of spending $860,000 in League football development grants for SINGAPORE: Results from the AFC warns United projects on land he personally Champions League yesterday: owns. Soccer’s world governing Group D body eventually cleared him of Al Ain City squad to stay any wrongdoing. REUTERS Al Ain (UAE) 3 (Omar Abdulrahma 27, Brosque 46, Gyan 90+2) Al Hilal (KSA) 1 (Al Zoari 9) on their toes At Doha Commission to Al Rayyan (QAT) 3 (Tabata 37, Omranzadeh LONDON: Manchester United 58-og, Nilmar 87) Esteghlal (IRI) 3 (Samuel manager Alex Ferguson has re- rule on Rangers 27, Borhani 45+2, Nekounam 86-pen) assured his fringe players that Group G they will all have parts to play payments At Hiroshima as the Premier League leaders Sanfrecce Hiroshima (JPN) 0 Bunyodkor (UZB) chase silverware on three fronts. 2 (Oleksandr Pyshur 45, Fozil Musaev 86) United host Real Madrid in the LONDON: The commission At Pohang second leg of their Champions set up by the Scottish Premier Pohang Steelers (KOR) 0 Beijing Guoan League last 16 tie on Tuesday. League (SPL) to look into (CHN) 0 In the 1-1 draw in Madrid alleged undisclosed payments to Group H two weeks ago, United skipper players at fallen Glasgow giants At Gosford Nemanja Vidic and wingers Nani Rangers is due to announce its Central Coast Mariners (AUS) 0 Suwon and Ashley Young were all over- findings today. Bluewings (KOR) 0 looked for inclusion in the match- The SPL said yesterday the At Guiyang day squad. But Ferguson says his commission appointed in relation Guizhou Renhe (CHN) 0 Kashiwa Reysol players should look to the club’s to “RFC 2012 Plc (now in liquida- (JPN) 1 (Cleo 45) recent past for examples of how tion) and Rangers FC and chaired Group C to deal with getting left out. by Lord (William) Nimmo Smith” At Isfahan “In 1999 I left Paul Scholes would publish its written decision Foolad Sepahan (IRI) 3 (Sukaj 22 & 81, out of the (Champions League) at noon local time (1200GMT) Zarandini 87) Al Nasr (UAE) 0 quarter-final against Inter Milan, today. At Sharayea Argentina’s football legend Diego Maradona runs as he plays against his compatriot tennis player Juan Martin yet he was the one who scored The probe centres on payments Al Ahli (KSA) 2 (Besas 35 Simoes 90) bt Al Del Potro during a show following Del Potro’s victory against India’s Somdev Devvarman during the ATP Dubai the goal that got us through,” made through the Employee Gharafa (QAT) 0 Open tennis tournament in Dubai yesterday. Ferguson told MUTV. AFP Benefit Trusts (EBT)set up by former Rangers chairman David Murray. Smith, formerly one of Scotland’s most senior judges, AFC probes Lebanon match-fixing report headed up a three-man panel also featuring two lawyers that KUALA LUMPUR: The today and our disciplinary com- “If I really am guilty of match- Myanmar side Magway FC, last the 2012 AFC Cup. Zreiqat said started hearing evidence on Asian Football Confederation mittee are looking into it,” an fixing, FIFA will investigate and played a World Cup qualifier in some players had confessed. January 29. said it is investigating a report AFC spokesman said yesterday. suspend me, not the Lebanese June when Lebanon lost 3-0 in The news is a further blow The inquiry started before the of match-fixing in Lebanon, The two-month investigation FA.” South Korea. to Asian soccer, which has been original Rangers compant was where 24 players have been involving over 60 witnesses was Lebanon are still in the run- El-Ali played for Lebanon in hit by match-fixing incidents in consigned to liquidation, with the sanctioned following allegations led by the general secretary of the ning to qualify for their first the WAFF Championship in China, South Korea and Malaysia new company or newco Rangers that international and regional West Asian Football Federation World Cup finals with three December but hit side failed to in recent years, limiting its devel- refusing to cooperate with the games were rigged. (WAFF), Fadi Zreiqat, who said matches remaining but any pun- advance to the knockout stages. opment on the world stage. investigation. The Lebanese Football the players had the right to ishment from the AFC or world Another two domestic players, European police shone a Rangers called for the investi- Federation on Tuesday appeal the decision. Dayoub, who governing body FIFA could see Al-Negma’s Mohammad Jaafar spotlight on the region earlier gation to be halted and warned announced the punishments, along with Ali was fined $15,000, their hopes dashed. and Al Ahed’s Hadi Sahmarani, this month when they said a that the ultimate sanction of title- including lifetime bans for denied the allegations and said They are bottom of Group A were banned for three seasons Singapore-based syndicate had stripping could see fans refuse to Malaysian-based defender he would fight to clear his name. ahead of their trip to leaders and handed $7,000 fines for their directed match-fixing for at attend away games in future. Ramez Dayoub and Indonesian- “I am not guilty. They have Uzbekistan on March 26 but involvement. least 380 soccer games in Europe Scotland’s most successful club, based forward Mahmoud El-Ali, suspended me and accused me a win could see them move up Another 10 of Sahmarani’s alone. The AFC will elect a new Rangers were expelled from the which centre on international of matchfixing without any evi- to joint second in the five-team team mates at the Lebanese president in May with matchfix- SPL because of their financial fixtures and AFC Cup matches, dence or proof,” Dayoub told FOX table. The top two teams will Premier League club were ing the top priority to tackle for problems and demoted into the the second tier regional club Sports. “This is a serious allega- earn a place in Brazil in 2014. banned for a year and each the four candidates who have Third Division, the fourth and tournament. tion and I have no doubt there’s Dayoub, who joined Malaysian given $2,000 fines. The club were confirmed they will run. lowest tier of Scottish profes- “We have received a report something behind this. team Selangor last year from knocked out in the group stage of REUTERS sional football before the start of this season. AFP THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 34 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT Unstoppable Ronaldo Iniesta still believes in European comeback MADRID: Andres Iniesta York and the daily said his believes that Barcelona will absence had not only affected helps Real thrash Barca keep fighting to regain the the morale of the squad but also league title and the Champions the team’s tactical shape. League, despite Another their hammering Barcelona- Real Madrid win 3-1 at Nou Camp, reach King’s Cup final at the hands of the based daily Sport Real Madrid in lamented that BARCELONA: Cristiano the Copa del Rey. many fans in Ronaldo continued his fine goal Madrid’s 3-1 vic- the Camp Nou scoring record at the Nou Camp tory at the Camp “left the sta- with a brace as Real Madrid Nou on Tuesday dium before the beat Barcelona 3-1 to go through night rounded off end because they to the final of the King’s Cup a terrible week for didn’t want to 4-2 on aggregate. the Catalans, who see a group who The Portuguese hit a first also now have a have become a half penalty and then knocked huge task if they shadow of what in a rebound after the break as are to progress they were. Real Madrid’s Real took full advantage of their to the last eight “The game counter-attacks. Portuguese forward of the Champions against Milan Raphael Varane headed the Cristiano Ronaldo (left) League after losing wasn’t an acci- third after 68 minutes while Jordi is congratulated by 2-0 to AC Milan last Barcelona’s Andres Iniesta dent. Barca con- Alba got a late consolation. his team-mate Alvaro Wednesday. attends a news conference at firmed all their Real Madrid will now take on Arbeloa after scoring However, Iniesta Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper bad feelings the winners of Sevilla and Atletico during the Spanish Cup remains confident in Sant Joan Despi, near against Madrid.” Madrid who play on Wednesday, semi-final second-leg of turning to tie Barcelona, yesterday. In the Spanish the capital side enjoying a 2-1 lead football match at the around on March 12 capital, however, from their first leg. Nou Camp Stadium in and gaining revenge the mood was Ronaldo has now scored in his Barcelona on Tuesday. over Madrid when the two meet different with sports daily Marca last six visits to the Catalan cap- in the league this weekend. declaring “the tide turns” on its ital and came out on top in his “We have to think a lot about front page. personal battle with Lionel Messi, these two games, “Relentless who was largely anonymous in the about what we Madrid strip game. have done well bare and anni- The Argentine, however, has and what we have hilate Barca in the chance to respond when the to improve,” mid- the Camp Nou pair meet again in the league at fielder Iniesta told to progress to the weekend. reporters. “We need the final of the This was the vital game to recover the feel- Copa del Rey,” it though for Real who trail lead- ing of being a com- added, assessing ers Barcelona by 16 points in La the pitch and in all areas we were in this game but in other Clasicos. competitions.Ronaldo knocked pact and infallible that the result Liga after a poor campaign and in control. “Hopefully this result can now the ball around Gerard Pique team. bode well for it is their best chance of picking “It was a very strong perform- be a turning point for the side inside the area and his former “I am convinced the Champions up some silverware outside of ance and in defence we were because this is a difficult stadium Manchester United teammate that we can recover League match the Champions League, in which superb. Cristiano was phenom- to play in. Now we are looking to brought him down for a spot-kick this tonic. On the against they are evenly poised against enal. It was a 10 out of 10 per- do well in the Champions League which the Portuguese converted. 12th we are playing Manchester Manchester United after a 1-1 formance and we deserve to be and La Liga.” Barca were hoping for a penalty in a hugely impor- Barca’s Lionel Messi reacts United at first leg draw at the Bernabeu. in the final. There were no surprises in the of their own moments later but tant competition during the Spanish Cup semi- the Santiago “We knew how to play “Cristiano is a vital player for Barcelona lineup with Andres the referee waved away appeals and for us it is like final second-leg football match Bernabeu on Barcelona and tactically we came us but while he had an excellent Iniesta preferred in attack to for a foul by Alvaro Arbeloa on a final. Tuesday. against Real Madrid at the Nou out on top,” said Real ‘keeper Iker performance so did the whole David Villa which allowed space Cesc and it showed how the home “We need to go The match Camp Stadium in Barcelona on Casillas. team. He is a reference for us and for Cesc Fabregas in midfield. side were becoming more frus- out from the first with the English “We were well positioned on has showed his capabililty not just Jose Mourinho chose Varane, trated at their inability to create minute as if we Tuesday. Premier League who did so well in the first leg, clear-cut chances. were playing for leaders is finely ahead of Pepe to partner Sergio Real were defending well our lives. The tie right now looks poised at 1-1. Ramos in the heart of the Madrid while they continued to threaten very difficult but the only mes- “Now we’re going for defence while finally there was no through Ronaldo counter-attacks. sage I have today is that I trust Manchester” said Marca. space for the rejuvenated Kaka Barca did win a free-kick on in this team. Focus inevitably also centred with Angel Di Maria starting on the edge of the area for a foul by “It is a question of pride, on the contrasting fortunes of the right wing. Arbeloa after on Iniesta for which necessity and reality and we are both sides’ star players -- four- Barca began at a high-tempo he was booked after 37 minutes capable of turning the scoreline time World Player of the Year with Iniesta firing wide from 20 and Messi’s shot went a whisker around.” Lionel Messi and Cristiano yards and then Messi screwed an past the post. Reaction to the defeat to their Ronaldo -- with Marca saying angled shot with his weaker right Barca attacked with renewed perennial rivals was not as posi- the Portuguese, who scored two foot past the post from the edge of vigour after the break but it was tive in the Catalan press, as spec- goals on the night, put in a “pow- the six-yard box before two min- Real who scored again after 57 ulation began about whether the erful display while Messi was utes were even on the clock. minutes. Barcelona side that has dazzled invisible”. While Barca had their usual Di Maria skipped round Carles Europe in recent seasons was The other Madrid sports daily, attacking ethos they were not Puyol and ‘keeper Victor Valdes now past its best. AS, was similarly ecstatic. pressing with the same intensity could only parry his shot to “It (the match) was a disas- “Take that, that and that” high up the pitch and so when Ronaldo who kept his composure ter but we have to get up,” said it said in a headline, calling Real did pick up possession they to slot home. El Mundo Deportivo on its front the game “an exhibition from were able to play their way out The Catalan and home side page, calling an “unrecognisable” Madrid”. of defence. looked stunned and lost their Barca “predictable and slow”. “Cristiano decided the game, Cesc had another effort which shape at the back as Real cut The paper reflected on Barca’s Messi was a shadow,” it added. was comfortably blocked by them apart. Varane got their inability to keep a clean sheet in “Ronaldo returns against a keeper Diego Lopez before the third as he outjumped the Barca 12 consecutive games, whilst also caged Messi,” concluded Mundo visitors took the lead from a defence at a corner to head in off questioning how big an influence Deportivo in reference to the Real Madrid’s French defender Raphael Varane (right) celebrates with penalty after a breakaway which the crossbar. the temporary loss of coach Tito Madrid man’s incredible record Real Madrid’s Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho (second right) after showed the danger they possess in A minute from the end Barca Vilanova has been. of scoring eight goals in the pair’s scoring a goal during the Spanish Cup semi-final second leg football attack, as well as Barca’s suspect did finally get on the scoresheet Vilanova is currently under- last six encounters at the Camp match. defence which has now not kept with Alba knocking in a ball over going cancer treatment in New Nou. AFP a clean sheet in 12 matches in all the top from Iniesta. AFP FIFA extends Everton end Oldham’s FA Cup journey Saint Etienne match-fixing ban reach Cup LIVERPOOL, United Phil Jagielka’s clearance struck Kingdom: Everton succeeded Gibson on the arm. for 70 Italians where Merseyside rivals Their resurgence proved short- quarter-finals ZURICH: Match-fixing bans Liverpool had failed by beat- lived, however, as Baines helped for 74 players and officials ing Oldham Athletic 3-1 on Everton stamp their authority on PARIS: Saint-Etienne remain from Italy and South Korea Tuesday to reach the FA Cup the tie. in contention to win both have been extended world- quarter-finals. Having seen a vicious strike domestic Cups after beating wide, the sport’s governing Third-tier Oldham eliminated saved by Oldham goalkeeper Lille 3-2 on Tuesday to reach body FIFA said yesterday. Liverpool in round four and held Dean Bouzanis minutes earlier, the quarter-finals of the French FIFA said that 70 bans from Everton to a 2-2 draw in their ini- the England left-back doubled Cup. the Italian Football Federation, tial fifth-round meeting 10 days his side’s advantage from the pen- Les Verts, who beat Lille on including 11 lifetime ones, had ago, but their cup heroics were alty spot in the 34th minute after penalties in the semi-final of the been extended after players ended in the replay at Goodison Connor Brown was penalised for League Cup last month, repeated and officials had been sanc- Park. handball. the trick against the northern tioned for match-fixing in vari- Goals from Kevin Mirallas, Everton centre-back Jagielka outfit at the Stade Geoffroy- ous hearings. Leighton Baines and Leon Osman blazed over the Oldham bar early Guichard, although they had to It said this involved either a took David Moyes’ side into the in the second half, while Bouzanis come from behind to do so. “direct involvement or omission last eight, where they will face saved from Osman. Marko Basa headed in a free- to report match-fixing, illegal Wigan Athletic, with Oldham’s In response, Oldham intro- kick from in-form Dimitri Payet betting or corrupt organisation cup talisman Matt Smith reply- duced giant striker Smith, scorer to give Lille the lead, but a farcical (association to commit illicit ing for the visitors. of two goals against Liverpool and Aurelien Chedjou own-goal, when acts)”. “We’ve been close a couple of an injury-time equaliser in the a kick-out from goalkeeper Steeve FIFA said bans were also times and that whets your appe- first game with Everton. Elana ricocheted off him into the extended in the cases of four tite. We want to go further, but Oldham rallied, Lee Croft firing net, restored parity. South Koreans. we’ve got a tough tie next,” Baines Everton’s South African midfielder Steven Pienaar runs with the ball wide from a good position, but in A deflected effort from Pierre- FIFA has been especially told ITV. during the English FA Cup fifth round replay football match against the 62nd minute, Everton struck Emerick Aubameyang put Saint- keen to be seen to be crack- “We’re at home so we’ll be Oldham Athletic at Goodison Park in Liverpool, north-west England on again. Etienne in front, and Renaud ing down on corruption since favourites, but we’ve had tough Tuesday. Steven Pienaar whipped a cross Cohade set up Brandao for a cool European anti-crime agency games against them the last cou- into the box from the left and finish for the hosts’ third goal, Europol announced that around ple of seasons and they’re com- Osman’s flicked header deceived before Salomon Kalou pulled one 680 matches were suspected of ing off the back of a good win lead in the 15th minute. After a immediately through former Bouzanis, who was distracted by back after a Payet shot had been being fixed in a global betting (over Reading) at the weekend, patient build-up, Darron Gibson Everton youngster Jose Baxter, the onrushing Nikica Jelavic. pushed out by ‘keeper Stephane scam run from Singapore. so they’ll be confident.” shaped a beautiful cross into the who seized on a loose ball on the Smith replied immediately, Ruffier. Recently, FIFA gave world- Beaten semi-finalists in last box from deep on the right and edge of the box but saw his curling nodding in a right-wing corner Elsewhere in other matches wide bans to Chinese officials season’s competition, Everton Mirallas stole in to finish with shot bounce back off the right- from close range, but Everton on Tuesday, Troyes won 2-1 away in a match-fixing scandal. were without the injured an adroit half-volley from eight hand upright. goalkeeper Tim Howard resisted to Sochaux while Evian-Thonon- REUTERS Marouane Fellaini but made a yards. The visitors then had a pen- Oldham’s efforts to claw their way Gaillard beat second tier Le purposeful start and took the Oldham almost drew level alty appeal turned down when back into the game. AFP Havre 3-1. AFP THURSDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2013 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 35 Pakistan prepare for new challenge T20 series against SA starts tomorrow

DURBAN: Pakistan have a chance to hit back after a trouncing in the Test series when they meet South Africa in the first of two Twenty20 internationals at Kingsmead tomorrow. The tourists were outclassed in the Tests, losing all three matches, but can be reasonably optimis- tic about their prospects in the shorter forms of the game with the Twenty20 games followed by five one-day internationals. Only five of South Africa’s cur- rent Test players are in the T20 squad -- Faf du Plessis, who has been appointed captain in the shortest format, AB de Villiers, Robin Peterson, Rory Kleinveldt and fast bowling discovery Kyle Abbott. The change of emphasis in Mohammad Hafeez Faf du Plessis South Africa’s approach is under- lined by the fact that national coach Gary Kirsten handed the infusion of new players after a the second Test and is still recov- T20 reins to Russell Domingo, his morale-sapping experience in the ering. As a result of that injury, assistant coach, before a three- Test series. Abbott was called up to the Test match series against New Zealand “It will be good to have some squad too, for the third match, earlier in the season. South Africa new players for the one-day and impressed with a nine-wicket won that series 2-1. games... the new players will come haul (including seven in the first Pakistan will be boosted by with fresh minds and a positive innings) on international debut. the inclusion of the experienced attitude,” Misbah said after the Squads: South Africa: Faf duo of Shahid Afridi and Shoaib final Test ended in three days on du Plessis (capt), Kyle Abbott, Malik. Sunday. Farhaan Behardien, Henry Opening batsman Mohammad By contrast, Domingo said Davids, Quinton de Kock (wkt), Hafeez takes over as T20 captain, South Africa faced a “much AB de Villiers (wkt), Rory although Test skipper Misbah-ul- tougher” challenge in the T20s, Kleinveldt, Ryan McLaren, Haq will resume the leadership describing his team as “a work David Miller, Chris Morris, Justin for the one-day internationals, in progress” with young players Ontong, Robin Peterson, Aaron which start in Bloemfontein on being tried out with a view to the Phangiso, Lonwabo Tsotsobe. March 10. next World T20 in Bangladesh Pakistan: Mohammad Hafeez The Akmal brothers, Kamran next year. (capt), Nasir Jamshed, Shoaib and Umar, who were not part of Meanwhile, fast bowler Kyle Malik, Kamran Akmal (wkt), the Test squad, are others who Abbott has been added to South Umar Akmal, Shahid Afridi, could add impetus to the T20 side. Africa’s one-day squad for the Saeed Ajmal, Mohammad Irfan, Whereas South Africa’s great- series against Pakistan, as cover Wahab Riaz, Umar Gul, Ahmed est strength is in their number for the injured Morne Morkel. Shehzad, Umar Amin, Zulfiqar one-ranked Test team, Pakistan Morkel had picked up a ham- Babar, Asad Ali, Junaid Khan. are likely to be lifted by the string injury during the course of AGENCIES MCC call for T20 at 2024 Olympic Games

LONDON: MCC’s world cricket committee has application. It’s an important, popular sport and very An Air New Zealand jet takes off during day one of the four-day warm-up cricket match between New Zealand said it would like to see Twenty20 cricket included powerful on television. It’s a sport with a great tradi- XI and England being played at the Queenstown Event Center in Queenstown yesterday. The four-day match is at the 2024 Olympic Games to boost take-up of tion where mostly you have a respect of the ethics.” the only warm-up England’s Test team will receive before their three-match series against New Zealand begins the game around the world. Only once before has cricket appeared in the at Dunedin’s University Oval on March 6. Cricket is on the first rung of the ladder for inclu- Games -- at the 1900 Paris Olympics, when Britain sion at a future Games, having received full Olympic beat France by 158 runs, with the French team recognition in 2010, but would still have to apply to largely made up of British expatriates. be on the programme. More recently there was also a cricket tourna- Windies sweep Now the earliest the International Cricket Council ment at the 1998 Commonwealth Games, a multi- Bell sparkles with (ICC) can apply for the sport to feature at an sport event for countries who were, in most cases, Zimbabwe Olympic Games is 2024. once ruled by Britain -- as is the case with cricket’s But following a two-day meeting in Auckland, the leading Test-playing nations. series with 3rd a hundred in NZ MCC world cricket committee said that any financial However, any bid for cricket to resume as an losses the game might suffer from the sport being Olympic sport is sure to face opposition from those included at an Olympics would be outweighed by who believe the Games calendar is already too ODI win AUCKLAND: Ian Bell stroked extra exposure. congested. an unbeaten century as England “The MCC world cricket committee appreciates And others will argue no sport where the Olympics ST GEORGE’S, GRENADA: amassed an impressive 357 for that a great deal of effort may be needed to lobby is not considered the highest honour should feature West Indies swept their one- seven at the end of the first for the inclusion of cricket in the Olympic Games at a Games, although that has not stopped tennis day international series against day of their match against a of 2024,” it said in a statement. being restored to the programme or golf being Zimbabwe 3-0 on Tuesday after New Zealand XI in Queenstown “The committee accepts that, were cricket to be included for Rio 2016, even though both have their making comparatively heavy yesterday. played in the Olympics, there would be a short-term annual four “Majors”. weather of what should have Bell (127 not out) anchored loss in income for the ICC, and therefore for dis- MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club), which owns been a leisurely pursuit of 212 the innings after England lost persion to its members, but is impressed with the London’s Lord’s ground and still has worldwide before reaching their target for three wickets before lunch, with potential boost for the game worldwide if cricket responsibility for the sport’s rules or Laws, no longer the loss of five wickets. Kevin Pietersen dismissed for were to be included. has a day-to-day role in the global administration Darren Bravo’s unbeaten 72 14, as the visitors were reduced “Furthermore, the committee advocates Twenty20 of the game. piloted the home team to victory, to 81 for three. All three wickets cricket as the format to be played at the Olympics, But its world cricket committee, chaired by former the left-hander earning both the fell to Otago allrounder Jimmy thereby providing the ‘pinnacle’ of that form of the England captain Mike Brearley and including the man-of-the-match and man-of- Neesham. sport.” likes of cricket greats Steve Waugh and Rodney the-series awards following on his “Some of the one-day wickets International Olympic Committee (IOC) presi- Marsh (Australia), as well as India’s Rahul Dravid maiden ODI hundred in the first we’ve played on here have been dent Jacques Rogge, a noted Anglophile, has previ- and Anil Kumble is regarded as an influential group match on Friday. absolutely flat,” Bell said. ously encouraged cricket to make its case for Games within the sport. REUTERS Kieran Powell contributed 42 “So to play on a wicket a little inclusion, saying in 2011: “We would welcome an at the top of the order while the bit more in the bowlers’ favour effort of young wrist-spinners was a good test - and it was nice Natsai M’Shangwe and debutant to come through that. There’s Tinotenda Mutombodzi offered enough grass on there, a lot left Vaughan backs drugs testing some encouragement for the on that pitch, so I think the new Zimbabweans ahead of the two ball will be key. LONDON: Former England captain Michael recreational drugs and are still doing it, but I hope T20 fixtures to be played at the “There was just enough seam Vaughan hopes the increased testing for recrea- Tom Maynard’s tragic story will make them stop. weekend in Antigua. movement all day, and I hope it tional drugs promised by cricket chiefs following There are around 400 professional cricketers in Mutombodzi removed will be the same throughout the the death of Surrey batsman Tom Maynard will England and it would be naive to think Tom’s is an Ramnaresh Sarwan caught-and- game.” - “frighten” anyone still using them. isolated case. There are bound to be more who have bowled with just his third deliv- Bell joined captain Alastair A coroner’s inquest in central London was told on taken drugs in the past or are still doing it now.” ery in senior international cricket Cook, who fell shortly after for 60, Monday that Maynard was nearly four times above The former England captain added: “The England and also accounted for Powell to before the Warwickshire right- the legal alcohol limit for driving and had taken and Wales Cricket Board is going to introduce more a catch at long-on. hander combined with Joe Root cocaine and ecstasy before he was electrocuted and testing for recreational drugs and that will frighten There were a few moments (49) and with Test wicketkeeper hit by a train in June last year. a few into cleaning up their acts.” of anxiety for the West Indies Matt Prior (41) to solidify the The coroner recorded a verdict of accidental Surrey have recruited South Africa captain when the dismissal of Narsingh innings. death on the promising cricketer, whose father was Graeme Smith and former Australia skipper Ricky Deonarine by Hamilton The four-day match is the only former England batsman Matthew Maynard. The Ponting as overseas players for the upcoming English Masakadza was followed by the warm-up England’s test team will England’s Matt Prior bats against England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) responded season. running out of Kieron Pollard for receive before their three-match New Zealand XI in a match by announcing increased testing for recreational, as Vaughan said: “....next summer they will have a duck without facing a ball to series against New Zealand begins played at the Queenstown Event well as performance-enhancing, drugs. Graeme Smith and Ricky Ponting. Two men who leave the home side at 121 for four. at Dunedin’s University Oval on Center yesterday. Vaughan, writing in yesterday’s Daily Telegraph, are exactly the right kind of role models for young REUTERS March 6. AGENCIES said: “There will be players in cricket who have taken kids making their way in cricket.” AFP Thursday 28 February 2013 18 Rabial II Safar 1434 Volume 17 Number 5624 Sport Price: QR2 %-%!%&.-"&/0"/,#"%-1&,23!"!,*!04-%35,# *.$")"*6 LATEST NEWS UPDATES IN TAMIL James, Wade Ronaldo helps TAMIL TIMES WEEKLY NEWSPAPER Middle East Edition help heat Real thrash

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www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Djokovic, Federer reach quarters World No.2 to clash with Davydenko in Dubai last four; Djokovic breezes past Bautista

DUBAI: Novak Djokovic, the moments when it more. Perhaps committed to every point,” he world number one, and Roger he suddenly Dubai Open results because courts admitted. Federer, the defending cham- switched two DUBAI: Results from day around the Djokovic now plays Andrea pion, moved nearer to a show- gears to deliver three of the Dubai Open yes- world are on the Seppi, the seventh seeded Italian, down in Saturday’s final when stunning win- terday (x denotes seeding): slower side, and whose elegance off the ground both raced into the quarter- ners, in a 6-3, 6-4 2nd round you come to the may punish any further lapses finals of the Dubai Open. success. Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) bt Roberto Bautista quicker courts more severely. Federer set the pace by getting He was (ESP) 6-1, 7-6 (7/4) like this and you Federer will follow Djokovic there in only 71 minutes against also tactically don’t dare. It’s a with a match against Nikolay Andreas Seppi (ITA x7) bt Lukas Rosol (CZE) Marcel Granollers, the world unpredictable. habit.” Davydenko, the former world 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) number 34 from Spain, with Encouraged Later he number three who ousted the Djokovic taking just 90 minutes by the fast court Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG x4) bt Somdev explained it as sixth seeded Janko Tipsarevic, to get past another Spaniard, and perhaps by Devvarman (IND) 6-4, 6-4 an outcome of and followed it with a 6-4, 7-6 Roberto Bautista, the world his opponent’s Daniel Brands (GER) bt Mikhail Youzhny his bright new (7/4) victory over Victor Hanescu, number 55. frequent charges (RUS x8) 6-4, 6-4 pink shoes, about of Romania. Federer has a likely Djokovic applied constant pres- into the fore- Dmitry Tursunov (RUS) bt Michael Llodra which he was semi-final with Tomas Berdych, sure with his speedy court cov- court, Federer (FRA) 7-6 (7/5), 2-6, 6-3 questioned. his Wimbledon conqueror of two erage and the weight and angles came to the net Tomas Berdych (CZE x3) bt Tobias Kamke “That’s the years ago, who overcame jet-lag, of his ground strokes, and might more often than (GER) 7-5, 6-1 problem: I come an umpire’s warning, and a dif- have won in under an hour had usual. But he was Nikolay Davydenko (RUS) bt Victor Hanescu to the net and ficult first set against Germany’s he not lapsed briefly in the sec- curiously unclear (ROM) 6-4, 7-6 (7/2) the guy knows,” Tobias Kamke before calling for ond set, letting Bautista Agut about why he did Roger Federer (SUI x2) bt Marcel Granollers Federer grinned. changes to the time limit rule. back into it. not attempt this (ESP) 6-3, 6-4 “It ain’t good, you Berdych emerged relieved and This enabled the man nick- more often. know. Definitely disgruntled after surviving 7-5, named “Bati” to launch some “It’s some- not camouflage.” 6-1 against the world number 90, hard blows, come from 2-5 down, thing I have been trying my whole Djokovic’s match confirmed the apparently under pressure from and save four match points in a life, to be more aggressive,” he importance, even for the best multiple sources. One of them 24-point ninth game before going said. “I would like to serve-volley player in the world, to keep his was the new 25-second time rule, Switzerland’s Roger Federer returns the ball to Spains’ Marcel Granollers down 6-1, 7-6 (7/4). more - but I’m winning, so it’s mind pinned down till the end. which reduces by five seconds the during their ATP Dubai Open, yesterday. RIGHT: Novak Djokovic of Serbia Federer mixed phases where okay. “I played a good match for an permitted pause between rallies. hits a return to Roberto Bautista Agut of Spain, yesterday. he appeared to be coasting, with “I don’t know why I don’t do hour or so, but then I didn’t stay AFP