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TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 JAMADA ALAWWAL 26, 1436 AH www.kuwaittimes.net Vatican envoy Netanyahu vows Christian protests Serena breezes asks for no Palestinian turn violent into fourth round more churches5 state if re-elected7 in Pakistan11 at20 Indian Wells Minister resigns after Min 17º Max 25º accusing MPs of bribery High Tide 01:92 & 02:32 Low Tide Panel discusses scrapping of Dow Chemical deal 00:57 & 01:34 40 PAGES NO: 16462 150 FILS By B Izzak Kuwait borders KUWAIT: The Cabinet yesterday accepted the resignation of Minister of Electricity and Water and Public Works AbdulAziz Al-Ibrahim who stepped down just one day after ‘safe and secure’ accusing that some MPs were receiving bribes. The cabinet statement did not give any reason for the By Nawara Fattahova resignation only saying that the Council of Ministers KUWAIT: The Kuwaiti army is prepared for any threat understood the reasons of or emergency situation and the northern borders of the resignation specified by the country are 100 percent safe and secure, stated the minister in his letter. State Major General Sheikh Mohammed Yousef Al-Sabah, Minister for Housing Affairs Assisting Undersecretary of Ministry of Interior for Yasser Abul was appointed as Borders Security. “Our army is ready to face any attack a caretaker for the two posts although we are not expecting any. We are able to until a new minister is deal with any emergency within 30 minutes,” said appointed. The resignation Major Al-Sabah during a ministerial tour of the 220- came after comments by the km long northern borders yesterday. minister on corruption in the The northern borders are divided into four sections National Assembly sparked with 19 centers and police patrols working 24 hours a angry reactions from many AbdulAziz Al-Ibrahim day. “I didn’t choose the place of the visit nor did we MPs some of whom demand- make any preparations for the media. We did not ed his resignation while at least two lawmakers announced increase the number of our staff on borders and they plans to grill him. On Sunday, the minister was asked by a are not even bound by emergency,” added Sabah. reporter to comment on a tweet which claimed that some “The main purpose of this tour for the media is to MPs were paid KD 350,000 to grill him. He indirectly agreed present an exact picture of the situation of the Kuwaiti and said that’s the price of fighting corruption. That state- borders. We have expanded the electrical security sys- ment was considered by many MPs as an accusation that tem to Al-Shaheed, and further to Al-Salmi. KUWAIT: Major General Sheikh Mohammed Yousef Al-Sabah interacts with Iraqi Major General Jaber Wadi and MPs are corrupt and vowed they will question the minister Continued on Page 13 other Iraqi officials (right) during a visit to the northern borders yesterday. — Photo byYasser Al-Zayyat in the national assembly. Continued on Page 13 Kuwait meet aims Kuwait plans to introduce corporate tax to raise billions Govt seeks IMF advice on taxing local firms

in aid for Syria KUWAIT: Kuwait has sought help from rich Gulf state after the recent introduc- (12.4 billion euros) to more than $77 bil- last year, according to finance ministry the International Monetary Fund to tion of a new corporate law, the minister lion this fiscal year, mostly on wages and figures. KUWAIT: As many as 78 nations and 40 international introduce corporate taxes in a bid to said. Kuwait currently imposes no taxes subsidies. In the same period, oil income dived organizations will attend the third donors conference diversify revenue in the face of falling oil on local companies, Kuwaiti citizens and Earlier this year, the emirate stopped 17.3 percent to $68.3 billion from $82.5 aimed at raising billions of dollars for war-torn Syria, prices, a minister said yesterday. expatriates but it requires foreign firms diesel, kerosene and aviation fuel subsi- billion. The state is however forecast to host country Kuwait said yesterday. “The IMF will prepare a preliminary to pay 15 percent tax on their profits. dies and the finance ministry is consider- end this fiscal year with a surplus-albeit The March 31 gathering at foreign ministers level report on how to impose taxes on com- The IMF has in the past advised ing similar measures for petrol, electricity smaller than usual-for the 16th year in a will be opened by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah panies in Kuwait,” Commerce and Kuwait to subject local companies to cor- and water. row. The government has announced the Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and UN Secretary General Industry Minister Abdulmohsen Al- porate tax as part of a series of measures Oil income contributed around 94 2015/2016 budget with a $24 billion Ban Ki-moon, a foreign ministry official told the KUNA Mudej said after a meeting with IMF rep- aimed at boosting non-oil revenues and percent of Kuwait’s public revenues but deficit despite slashing spending by 17.8 news agency. resentatives, the official KUNA news cutting spending. the sharp drop in prices is expected to percent to $65.1 billion. Nations are expected to announce pledges for UN agency reported. Kuwait has posted a budget surplus in substantially reduce its income. Kuwait’s There are about 1.25 million Kuwaitis humanitarian operations in Syria where 12 million The two sides discussed ways of intro- each of the past 15 fiscal years due to revenues in the first 10 months of the in the country, in addition to 2.9 million people both inside and outside the country need ducing corporate taxes for Kuwaiti and high oil prices but has also increased current fiscal year dropped 16 percent to foreigners. It pumps about 2.8 million urgent aid. At the first and second conferences, also foreign companies operating in the oil- public spending from under $13 billion $74.5 billion compared to $88.8 billion barrels of oil per day. — AFP hosted by Kuwait, pledges of $1.5 billion and $2.4 bil- lion were made, but the United Nations has com- plained that not all pledges were honored. Ahead of the conference, international non-govern- Qatar Airways boss says mental organizations are due to meet to make their own pledges. Ban urged the Security Council on Delta flying ‘crap’ planes Thursday to overcome divisions and take action to end the war in Syria as the conflict entered its fifth year DOHA: The chief of Qatar Airways yesterday “I think Mr Anderson (CEO of Delta, Richard with little prospect for peace. denied his company receives subsidies and Anderson) doesn’t know the difference between His appeal followed scathing criticism from 21 accused rivals Delta Air Lines of flying “crap” old- equity and subsidy. We never receive any sub- human rights and aid groups who accused world pow- er planes, escalating hostilities between Gulf sidy,” Baker said. “The state of Qatar is the owner ers of “failing Syria” in a report that highlighted the and American carriers. of Qatar Airways and whatever funds are put worsening plight of civilians. Speaking at an arts conference in Doha, into the airline is as equity, which is quite legiti- Last year was the war’s deadliest yet, with at least Akbar al-Baker said any money his airline mate. “The unfortunate thing is that because 76,000 people killed out of a toll of more than 215,000 receives from the state is in the form of “legiti- they are so inefficient they want to blame us- since it erupted on March 15, 2011 with peaceful mate” equity and added his company’s fleet of whilst we are very efficient-for their failures and Continued on Page 13 aircraft were much cleaner for the environment drawbacks. in comparison to Delta. Continued on Page 13

Alarm over Kerry comment on Assad talks DUBAI: A Sotheby’s employee shows a 100.2-carat diamond in a classic emerald-cut during a preview organized by the action RIYADH: A remark by US Secretary of State John Assad, saying these had to include Syrian opposi- house before the jewel goes under the hammer yesterday in Kerry that President Bashar Al-Assad should be tion members and elements of the exiting regime - Dubai. — AFP included in negotiations on a Syrian political tran- but not Assad - to pave the way to a unity govern- sition provoked alarm and dismay yesterday ment. Other Gulf countries, which like Saudi Arabia ‘Flawless’ 100ct among commentators close to Gulf Arab govern- have backed Syrian rebels against Assad, worried ments opposed to his rule. about Kerry’s remarks. Saudi Arabia, the top oil exporter and main Arab “The fact that Assad is still in the picture is diamond on ally of the United States, has long feared that the something we have lived with and accepted as an administration of President Barack Obama lacks interim arrangement. If Mr Kerry was talking about the resolve to tackle Assad and that it is instead this same interim arrangement - one year or two show in Dubai focusing on a nuclear deal with the Syrian leader’s years until negotiations reach some fruit - we main supporter Iran. Although there was no imme- understand,” said Sami Al-Faraj, a Kuwaiti adviser to DUBAI: An internally “flawless” 100-carat diamond was on show yesterday diate official comment from Riyadh, Saudi analysts the Gulf Cooperation Council that comprises Gulf in Dubai ahead of being sold at auction next month by Sotheby’s, where it with connections to the ruling family and conser- Arab states. “But if he means that even after nego- could fetch up to $25 million. The stone, which was discovered a decade vative Sunni Muslim clerics quickly voiced concern tiations Assad would stay on, that is unacceptable.” ago in the De Beers mines of South Africa, will go under the hammer at a about Kerry’s remarks. The Saudis have in the past said a political transi- “Magnificent Jewels” sale in New York in April, the auction house said. “Bashar has no legitimacy after killing his peo- tion in Syria cannot begin unless Assad leaves One of five diamonds weighing more than 100 carats that have sur- ple and driving 11 million out of their houses. How power, and Foreign Minister Prince Saud al-Faisal faced on the market over the past 25 years, the jewel’s estimated sale price can you sit down and talk to him and keep him in has accused him of committing genocide against is between $19-25 million (18-23.7 million euros), according to Sotheby’s. power? It’s a big joke for us,” said Abdulaziz Al- Syrians.Riyadh’s concerns have been heightened The auction house describes it as the “ultimate emerald-cut diamond, Sager, head of the Gulf Research Centre based in by negotiations between Iran and world powers weighing 100.20 carats, D colour, internally flawless” and “unlike any dia- Jeddah and Geneva. aimed at finding a deal over its nuclear program, mond offered at auction before”. “We have to negotiate in the end,” Kerry said. which have reached a critical stage. Frank Everett, Sotheby’s vice-president of sales for jewelry, told AFP in “We’ve always been willing to negotiate in the con- Nasser Al-Omar, a hardline conservative Sunni Dubai that the diamond was “for anyone who really desires the best of the best”. Everett said the diamond could be worn as “a pendant on a neck- text of the Geneva I process,” he added, referring to Muslim cleric with over 1.6 million Twitter follow- lace, or a cuff bracelet or a ring” although someone might buy it “to admire a 2012 conference which called for a negotiated ers, tweeted yesterday that Kerry’s comments were LAUSANNE: US Secretary of State John Kerry rides it just as an object in its own right”. Sotheby’s hopes that showcasing this transition to end the conflict. a bike after holding meetings with Iranian Foreign evidence of a deal between Tehran and “perfect” diamond in Dubai and other locations ahead of the April sale can One major US ally appeared to differ. France Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif over Iran’s Washington to make Iran “America’s policeman in help it attract the attention of the Middle East’s wealthy elite. — AFP said it was sticking to its opposition to talks with nuclear program in Lausanne yesterday. — AP the region”. — Reuters LOCAL TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah separately received yesterday Amiri Diwan Advisor Sheikh Fahad Saad Al- Abdullah Al-Sabah and his son Sheikh Khaled Fahad Saad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah, on the occasion of Sheikh Khaled’s graduation with honors in criminal justice from a US university. — KUNA Al-Argan launches Minister’s resignation art competition accepted, interim named By Nawara Fattahova that their talents will always be of interest to our society and country”, KUWAIT: The Al-Argan International stressed Ammach. Cabinet holds weekly meeting Real Estate Company announced the “Our organization consolidates its launching of a country-wide art com- support and attention towards KUWAIT: The cabinet has endorsed a draft decree Premier on a recent visit by Armenian Prime State John Kerry. It addressed regional and interna- petition for students at governmental younger generations during such a cul- naming Minister of State for Housing Affairs Yasser Minister Hovik Abrahamyan to Kuwait, leading a tional developments. and private universities in Kuwait dur- tural activity, and also reinforces our Abul as acting Minister of Public Works, Electricity delegation to bolster bilateral ties. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister ing a press conference held yesterday role and responsibility pertaining to and Water, after Minister Abdulaziz Al-Ibrahim According to Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, the Sheikh Mohammad Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah at the C-Club. youth involved in artistic and cultural resigned from the post. cabinet was notified of the message HH the Amir informed the ministers about the outcome of the This event is running for the second fields. Our objective is to build sustain- Holding a weekly meeting at Bayan palace yes- received from Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan Arab Interior Ministers meeting recently held in year in a row in order to encourage stu- able partnerships through establishing terday, chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister on developing bilateral relations in all fields. Algeria and its key results and recommendations, dents to develop their artistic abilities initiatives with the private sector Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, the President Sargsyan also invited HH the Amir to visit mainly reports on what has been carried out by and show their talents in a creative intended to the welfare of Kuwait’s cabinet commended fervent and sincere efforts Armenia. The meeting was notified of the message member states to combat terrorism. The cabinet way. “This initiative comes as a vital society,” Ammach added. exerted by the minister during his term of office, to HH the Amir from Croatian President Kolinda approved the 8th Arab security plan, the 6th Arab step based on Al-Argan’s commitment Al-Argan also thanked the UNDP, wishing him best of luck in serving the nation in his Grabar-Kitarovic on bilateral ties. media plan for security awareness and prevention to develop the skills and talents of and the NCCAL for their great support future endeavors. of crime and the 5th plan for Arab strategy for traf- youth, and emphasize on the coopera- and Burgan Bank for the initiative in The cabinet was informed about HH the Amir’s Arab ministers fic safety. tion between the public and private sponsoring this unique event which acceptance of Al-Ibrahim’s resignation, Minister of Meanwhile, First Deputy Prime Minister and sectors,” said Mahmoud O Ammach, reflects the shared belief in the impor- State for Cabinet Affairs Sheikh Mohammad Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Draft decfees Senior Vice President - Sales and tant role of such events towards the Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah said. Al-Sabah briefed the cabinet on the outcome of The cabinet endorsed two draft decrees appointing Sheikh Yusuf Abdullah Sabah Al-Nasser Marketing at Al-Argan. community development. the 143rd session of the Arab Foreign Ministers Egypt conference held in Cairo. Al-Sabah Director General of Kuwait Ports The event in collaboration with the Also in yesterday’s meeting, the cabinet was The cabinet was also informed about the results Authority and Tareq Eid Hamad Al-Mezrem United Nations Development Program, Doors of hope notified of HH the Amir’s participation in Egypt of the 134th session of the Gulf Cooperation Undersecretary of the Ministry of Information. Kuwait (UNDP) and the National Dima Al-Khatib, UNDP Deputy Economic Development Conference (EEDC) held in Council (GCC) Foreign Ministers recently held in The two decrees were referred to HH the Amir Council for Culture, Arts and Letters Representative noted that the UNDP is Sharm El-Sheikh and his statement to the major Riyadh, especially what is related to developments for final approval. The ministers discussed issues on (NCCAL) is to encourage the spirit of participating in this event to strength- event on Kuwait’s support to Egypt’s economy, in Yemen. In addition, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled the agenda of the National Assembly, together innovation and artistic creativity of the en the program’s objectives for this security and stability. briefed the cabinet on the outcome of the GCC with reports on the current Arab and international youth, and to provide them with the millennium and for opening the doors Then the meeting was briefed by HH the Foreign Ministers’ meeting with US Secretary of developments. — KUNA support necessary for their careers. of hope for young talents to show their technical capabilities and achieve their Initial meeting creative concepts. An initial meeting was held on All the participating works will be Tuesday, November 26, 2014 for the displayed in the C-Club which is a sub- participants so as to let them introduce sidiary of Al-Argan company. The doors themselves, and get the guidance and will be opened for the audience to support they need. Not to mention attend for one day after the declara- reinforcing the networking opportuni- tion ceremony for winners and awards. ties and enriching positive relations The outstanding pieces will be sold in between the participants. case the audience is interested in buy- During the meeting reinforcing the ing, which can benefit the owners of networking opportunities and enrich- these works. ing positive relations between the par- Dr. Sulaiman Al-Askari, Former ticipants was emphasized. Canvases Secretary General of NCCAL and were distributed amongst the partici- Former Editor-in-Chief of Al Arabi pating universities. Drawings and Magazine praised this great idea of Al- paintings were displayed at Boushari Argan. “We were surprised by the level Gallery between March 4-7, 2015 and of drawings submitted by the universi- in the Arts Hall at Abdullah Al-Salem’s ty students in the first year. Thus this Suburb between March 10-12, 2015. year I noticed visible improvement. On Students, representatives from depart- this occasion I would like to give a ments of the participating universities message for the universities that they and sponsors attended the events. should spread cultural and artistic The competition is titled Power of awareness. The knowledge of arts Life to emphasize the importance of helps the students in their future life as KUWAIT: His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah chairs the cabinet’s meeting yesterday. — KUNA art in shaping peoples’ lives and to they are going to build a family and transfer cultures, feelings and experi- deal with kids and the community. So ences through generations. In addi- one particular field of study is not tion, it is highlighting the dreams and enough,” he pointed out. NGO donor-conference for Syria announced goals young generations aim to achieve. The standards of selecting the Participants Arab officials underline ‘Kuwait III’ importance winning paintings depend on the level The number of participants ranges of creativity and techniques students between 6-8 students from each uni- KUWAIT: The International Islamic Charity third International Pledging Conference for Syria, due was particularly important because of the growing employ, and the level of awareness versity. The participating universities Organization (IICO) said it would be hosting the Third on March 31. number of Syrian refugees and the deterioration of towards the basic scale of drawing and are Kuwait University, American International Donors’ Conference for Non- their living and humanitarian conditions,” said Jean painting. All that comes to reflect the University of the Middle East, American Government Organizations on March 30. The event is Growing demands Nicolas Boueiz, Assistant Representative in Lebanon of theme of the exhibition, ‘Power of Life’ University of Kuwait, Australian College being held for a third time under the directions of HH Meanwhile, Jordanian officials Monday underlined the UN High Commission of Refugees (UNHCR). will determine the awards which are of Kuwait, Gulf University for Science the Amir, due to his concern over the catastrophic importance of a donors’ conference to be held in Remarkable increase of Syrian refugees requires addi- financial grants, a spokesperson of Al- and Technology, Higher Institute of humanitarian situation some 12.2 million Syrians dis- Kuwait at the end of March to support the Syrian peo- tional efforts to meet their basic needs, said Boueiz, Argan said. Dramatic Art and the Public Authority placed inside and out of their country are experienc- ple either internally displaced or living as refugees in thus UNHCR and its partners highly hoped that Kuwait for Applied Education and Training. ing for a fifth year now, said the IICO chief. neighboring countries. Prime Minister Abdullah III would address these needs. Cultural activities At the end of the press conference, The IICO has dispatched dozens of invitations to Ensour called on donor countries to honor develop- Boueiz highlighted importance of a plan launched “The goal of this competition is to Al-Argan expressed its deepest grati- local, regional and international humanitarian organi- ment needs of Jordan in order to help the country by the UN and the Lebanese government, which zations to attend the event, where they will announce honor growing demands of the Syrian refugees. aimed at addressing influx of refugees in order to tude to their golden sponsors, UNDP, improve the cultural activities associat- their pledges and aid programs, Director General During a meeting with representatives of UN agen- guarantee proper assistance for those in dire need. He ed with ‘Fine Arts’ and to highlight our Burgan Bank and C-Club, in addition to Salem Hamada added. cies, Arab and Western ambassadors, including noted that Lebanese communities’ hosting of Syrian contribution to the development of all other sponsors - Four Films In its previous two editions, the event has been Kuwait’s Hamad Al-Duaij, Ensour noted that Jordan refugees suffered from poverty and high unemploy- social activities that align with Kuwait Company, Four Fest Company, successful in combining efforts and building strategic launched a $2.3 billion appeal last year to provide ment rates which would thus undermine security. as a cultural and social centre, in addi- Ingredients Events Company and partnerships aimed at easing the burden on Syrian assistance to hundreds of thousands of Syrian tion to sending a message to the youth Moghawi Stationery. refugees in neighboring countries like Jordan, refugees. Major role Lebanon and Turkey, alongside Iraq and Armenia and Jordan, hosting the third largest number of Syrian Sheikh Zuhair Kebbi, Director of the Zakat (alms) those displaced within Syria. refugees compared with neighboring countries, “has Fund of the Fatwa Authority of Lebanon, said Kuwait Hamada said that the IICO has also been in contact become incapable of facing this challenge by its own.” has played a major role in helping the Syrian refugees with local Kuwaiti charities in order to assess and put The international support will help Jordan honor the in Lebanon. Kuwait’s role is part of the country’s mas- into place the conference’s needs and program, with needs of the Syrian refugees, he said. sive humanitarian aid to people around the world, teams set up for each role pertaining to the event like Jordanian Minister of Planning Emad Fakhouri said which resulted in the UN honoring of HH the Amir as a media and public relations, and management. Jordan and the UN would soon sign an agreement to ‘Humanitarian Leader,’ and Kuwait as ‘Humanitarian establish a credit fund, designed to finance projects Center.’ Kebbi commended Kuwait for hosting the United efforts for the refugees. He said Jordan needed $2.9 billion to donors’ meeting and that it would help honor human- Charities in Kuwait all fall under Kuwait’s Supreme address ramifications of the huge number of refugees. itarian needs of the Syrian refugees. Committee for Relief, headed by Amiri Diwan Advisor The March 31 International Pledging Conference For his part, Ahmad Obaid, head of Manaber Al- and the UN chief’s Humanitarian Envoy Abdullah Al- for the Syrian people, also known as Kuwait III, will be a Noor Society, said Kuwait has become a role model in Maatouq, and this step was taken under the directions good opportunity for Jordan to explain its needs with- helping the needy thus triggering the UN honoring. of HH the Amir to ensure the unification of relief in a UN plan, he said. Minister of Interior Hussein Al- He said Kuwait has been helping the Syrian people efforts in the country. Majali said eight percent of the Syrian refugees live in since the eruption of their crisis in March 2011. The Hailing HH the Amir’s decision to host the third camps while the rest in host communities, which thus Syrian conflict killed more than 210,000 people and event of its kind, he said it adds to Kuwait’s rich record increase burden on security and services. displaced millions of Syrians who are either internally of initiatives and humanitarian accomplishments in displaced or refugees in neighboring countries. the case of Syria and many other nations stricken by New hope Kuwait hosted the first and second aid pledging war, conflict and natural hazards. Meanwhile, officials involved in providing humani- conferences for Syria in 2013 and 2014. The two con- KUWAIT: (From left) Dima Al-Khatib, UNDP Deputy Representative, Mahmoud Ammach, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon awarded His tarian assistance to Syrian refugees in Lebanon have ferences were successful and raised $3.9 billion in aid Senior Vice President - Sales and Marketing of Al-Argan, Mohammad Al-Asousi, Assistant Highness the Amir with the title of ‘Humanitarian said Kuwait’s hosting of the 3rd donors’ conference for pledges, $1.5 billion in the first and $2.4 billion in the Secretary General at NCCAL, Dr Sulaiman Al-Askari, former NCCAL Secretary General and Leader’ and Kuwait ‘Humanitarian Centre’ in a ceremo- Syrian people was a ‘new hope’ for millions of dis- second. Kuwait donated at total of $800 million in the Yehia Sweylim from Boushehri gallery. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat ny held at the UN Headquarters in 2014. This confer- placed Syrians. The officials commended Kuwait for two conferences, $300 million in the first and $500 in ence, to be held at the NGOs’ level, will precede the ongoing generous aid for Syrian refugees. “Kuwait III the second. — KUNA TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 LOCAL

Photo of the day

KUWAIT: Major General Sheikh Mohammed Yousef Al-Sabah, Assistant Undersecretary of Ministry of Interior for Borders Security led a ministry team during a ministerial tour of the 220-km long northern borders yesterday. A US embassy delegation was present during the tour. —Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Crimes report Parents complain school fees hike

By Meshaal Al-Enezi Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, and Health Minister Ali and stressed that he had urged officials to build a new hos- Al-Obaidi, demanding cancellation of a decision to reduce pital in the area to help and backup the current one as KUWAIT: Despite the ordinance of the Ministry of the allowances given to patients treated abroad. The soon as possible. Otaibi explained that Adan Hospital’s Education to cancel any increase in the tuition fee for the allowance gives patients KD 75 and first escort KD 50 per capacity is 30,000 patients while it actually serves 1.5 mil- school academic year 2015-2016 in private schools, some day and flight tickets for only one. According to the com- lion. “How can a hospital built in 1982 serve these num- of schools have reportedly asked for extra fees. According plainant’s lawyer, his client was negatively affected by the bers,” he exclaimed adding that the casualty department to sources, some private schools sent circular to parents decision and that he had filed a complaint in this regard on examines around 2,000 patients on a daily basis. applying to register their kids in primary stage for the com- November 7, 2014, which was not responded to. The ing school year to pay what they described as ‘category fee’ lawyer added that he demanded cancelling the decision. Ministry okays litigation office though the charity education fund already pays all the Wasmi Khalid Al-Wasmi, Chairman of the Kuwait basic fees for some of them. Paramedics report discrimination Lawyers’ Society, announced signing an agreement with A number of Kuwaiti medical emergency technicians the justice ministry to establish a litigation office at the Health ministry orders HIV tests (paramedics) made a complaint over what they described society’s headquarters in order to facilitate the litigation The pre-marital medical tests have shown a growing num- as professional abuse and discrimination against them. The process. ber of HIV infections among citizens and expatriates, said a complainants explained that some of them applied to be Ministry of Health source. Accordingly, the Health Minister Dr stationed at the clinic at Kuwait International Airport which Municipal adjourned for ‘study’ Ali Al-Obaidi issued a directive mandating all patients consult- they alleged were rejected. They complained that the air- Yesterday’s municipal council session was adjourned ed at gynecology, pregnancy departments and all sexually- port is a sensitive facility that it should not be left for when four members withdrew on voting on some projects transmitted diseases OPDs to undergo HIV tests as a condition expats whose affiliations are unknown, sources said. they believed still need more study, which led to cancelling to receive further medical care in various hospitals and clinics. the session for lack of quorum. The withdrawing members Adan Hospital’s bed shortage are Abdullah Al-Kandari, Hassan Kamal, Ali Al-Moussa and Citizen sues ministers over allowance Dr Bader Al-Otaibi, Manager of the Adan Hospital, Mohammed Al-Mojel who reportedly withdrew in protest A citizen recently sued His Highness the Prime Minister admitted that the hospital suffers severe lack of bed facility for voting on projects they had not studied. Adailia named healthy city Body washed ashore KUWAIT: Adailia has been declared a healthy city as part of a Health Ministry initiative, said Director of the Capital at Fahaheel beach Health Area Dr Tareq Al-Jassar. This is a step and in the right direction to engage the society in efforts to promote health and living conditions nationwide, Jassar said yester- By Hanan Al-Saadoun day on the sidelines of a ceremony to launch Adailia as a world healthy city. He expressed hope the title would KUWAIT: Firefighters recovered a dead man’s body found extend to more districts of the capital city, urging Adailia floating off the Fahaheel beach yesterday. The body was inhabitants to cooperate with the relevant bodies and taken to the forensic department for an autopsy to deter- councils. —KUNA mine the time and cause of death. Investigations are ongo- ing meanwhile to identify the man and reveal the circum- KUWAIT: Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Khaled Al-Jarallah held talks yesterday with US Ambassador stances behind his death. to Kuwait Douglas Silliman. The meeting dealt with bilateral relations and the latest developments on both regional and international arenas. Jarallah also met with China’s visiting Special Envoy on the Middle East Issue Ambassador Wu Sike and discussed bilateral relations as well as latest regional and Drug dealers caught international developments. —KUNA Drug Control General Department officers arrested two Nepalese men with 100 grams of heroin, 50 grams of ICE drugs, and a scale use in selling drugs. The arrest was made in one of the suspect’s house. Both were Kuwait Energy signs oil sent to concerned authorities for further action. research, exploration deal

Children, maid escape fire SHARM EL-SHEIKH: Kuwait Energy Energy is the operator, with a 10 per- of the public sector and the private Six children and a housemaid were rescued from a fire in Company, an independent oil and gas cent participating interest in Block IX, sector coming together, each sector Saad Al-Abdallah. Jahra firemen rushed to the building, company with assets across MENA Iraq license. Block IX field is located in bringing in its share of knowledge, and managed to rescue the children and maid unharmed. region, signed Sunday a partnership the Basra Governorate, in Southern skills and strengths for the interest of They were able to extinguish the blaze before it could agreement for oil research, exploration Iraq. the country.” spread. No injuries were reported. Separately, a fire broke and production in Iraq with the On this occasion, Molla stated that Bukhamseen stated that “Kuwait out in an electric transformer in Sabahiya, and firemen put Egyptian General Petroleum they “are pleased to announce EGPC’s Energy has always believed and con- it out without injuries. Corporation (EGPC). first international investment. The tinues to believe that the oil and gas The agreement was signed by merit of this investment is its contribu- business is a solid bridge for develop- EGPC CEO Tarek Al Molla, Kuwait tion to building an economic relation- ing and strengthening ties between Liquor factory busted Energy Chairman Dr Mansour ship between Iraq and Egypt. Block IX nations. This agreement exemplifies Farwaniya police discovered a liquor factory in Jleeb Al- Bukhamseen, and attended by has huge potentials of oil reserves and fruitful cross-Arab cooperation, bring- Shuyoukh. Police first arrested a man who was found Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and resources, which add significant value ing together Egypt, Iraq and Kuwait for with possession of 200 drug pills after being stopped in Mineral Resources Sharif Ismail and for Egypt. This partnership with Kuwait one common goal, the economic and the area, said a security source. The man managed to Kuwait’s Ambassador to Egypt Salem Energy comes as the fruit of the social development of the region,” he escape, and hid inside a house. Police issued a warrant Al-Zamanan. Strategic Alignment Agreement added. The Exploration, Development and raided the house, where they found 1,100 liquor The agreement states that EGPC signed in 2011,” Al-Molla added. and Production Service Contract bottles, 45 barrels filled with alcoholic drinks as well as becomes a partner with UAE’s Dragon Minister Sharif Ismail commented (“EDPSC”) pertaining to Block IX was tools used to brew alcoholic drinks. Oil Holdings Ltd. and Kuwait Energy, in “the partnership between EGPC and signed in January 2013 after the award the Block IX license, where Kuwait Kuwait Energy is a successful example in 2012. —KUNA TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 LOCAL

Improved measures needed to A la carte, Good France: The gastronomical event of the year

fight cybercrimes: Minister KUWAIT: The French Embassy is host- world one of the most important ing the Good France/Gout de France French heritages. The French gastro- Industrial cyber security conference underway this Thursday, allowing visitors to enjoy nomic meal is designated a UNESCO testing various French and international World Heritage since 2010. As declared dishes represented by 40 participants. by Laurent Fabius, this heritage should KUWAIT: Kuwait is in need for non-stop devel- has been imposing unprecedented challenges Rapid development French Ambassador to Kuwait Christian be built upon and showcased and, opment of measures for protecting digital econ- and risks prompting harder work on the security In other news, Minister of Education and Nakhle made the following statement every year, March 19 will be the day to omy and curbing cybercrimes, a government of our systems, he added. Adsani recalled cyber- Minister of Higher Education Dr Bader Al-Essa on the occasion: discover and try the French gastrono- highlighted the state’s institutions’ need to cope official said. attacks that targeted two of the Middle East’s my. Minister of Oil and Minister of State for largest energy companies, Saudi Aramco, and with the rapid development of information and Also, French gastronomy is a gen- National Assembly Affairs Ali Al-Omair also Qatar’s Ras Laffan Liquefied Natural Gas computer technology, adding that the Ministry What is Good France/Gout de France? called for boosting cyber security in Kuwait as Company (RasGas), in September 2012. of Higher Education is keen on improving and The French worldwide event Good uine pull factor for 60 percent of tourists well as other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) supporting researches to set Kuwait among the France/Gout de France is a gastronomic visiting our country. The last figures states, amid sophisticated challenges resulting Main themes scientifically developed countries. journey with the pleasure of tasting the report around 60,000 Kuwaitis travel to from the use of modern technology. He said that KIACS 2015, held under patronage of Minister The minister made those statements yester- French gastronomy. On Thursday, 19 France every year. Gout de France is in a the Kuwaiti government had made Omair, focuses on three main tech- day during the opening ceremony of the First March, all around the world, 1,300 way to experience France from Kuwait unprecedented progress in the nical themes; Cyber Security International Conference on Computing and to invite Kuwaiti tourists to try our field. Standards; Human Factor Sciences and Engineering (ICCSE 2015), titled various local culinary specialties from The minister made that state- Dynamics in Cyber Security and ‘Massive Data in the Service of Society’. The two- the north of France to the south. ment yesterday at the opening of Cyber Security Best Practices day conference is attended by experts and spe- Kuwait’s 2nd Industrial Implemented in Operational cialists in the field. “This comes in line with The invitees list from Kuwait Automation and Control System Technologies (OTs). Kuwait’s commitment to maintain a remarkable for the Good France event Cyber Security Conference (KIACS) Some of the several aims of the education level, and exert all possible efforts to Gout de France is a unique opportu- 2015. The event concludes tomor- event are: reviewing the cyber achieve the vision of His Highness the Amir nity to enjoy and share the taste of row, and is sponsored and hosted security standards and internation- Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah in making the France. The invitation is opened to all by Kuwait National Petroleum al community’s experience and country a regional financial and commercial cen- Kuwaitis, people living in Kuwait, to all Company (KNPC). achievements to date in strength- ter,” the Minister affirmed. the lovers of food, of creativity and to ening cyber security of industrial those who want to stimulate their taste Direct challenge automation and control systems ; Massive data buds. This gastronomic experience is a The government regards such Oil minister Ali learning and sharing cyber securi- Dr Fawaz Al-Enizi, the Dean of the Faculty of perfect illustration of two important threats as a direct challenge to ty best practices implemented in Computer Science and Engineering, said mean- Al-Omair specificities of the French culture: pro- national security, Omair told the operational technologies (OTs) and while that the conference embraces 25 research- two-day conference. He assured understanding the Human Factor es and is attended by 16 visiting professors from French Ambassador moting local specialties and openness people that the state would take necessary Dynamics in Cyber Security. Australia, Canada, the United States, Lebanon, Christian Nakhle to the world. measures to boost data security, enacting new Other objectives include identifying the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. laws and consolidating awareness. The minister emerging cyber law trends and jurisprudence The conference tackles the importance of col- restaurants will offer a dinner to cele- Five percent of the total urged more cooperation among the govern- impacting cyberspace in today’s scenario and lecting and resolving massive data. It is organ- brate France’s delicacies by inviting the revenue to local charities ment, the private sector and industrial compa- creating far more awareness about the newly ized through the support of ACM Society, a public to share a typical “French Dinner”. Beyond the promotion of France and nies as “real partners” to protect information emerging kinds of cybercrimes that are impact- world’s largest educational and scientific com- Good France/Gout de France initia- its gastronomy, Gout de France was also security in the country. ing all stakeholders in the digital ecosystem. It puting society, besides Gulf University for tive is being organized by the French thought to be a charity action. The Cyber space has brought about radical also seeks to identify the areas in cybercrimes Science and Technology (GUST). The conference Minister of Foreign Affairs and 1,300 restaurants are encouraged to changes in the world’s economy offering more where cyber law needs to be further evolved so will include workshops and seminars with the International Development, Laurent donate five percent of proceeds to a than two billion people direct access to econom- as to meet with the expectation and needs of participation of governmental and non-govern- Fabius (@laurentfabius), and the world- local NGO promoting health and envi- ic and social data Nizar Al-Adsani, CEO of Kuwait the relevant stakeholders of the digital ecosys- mental bodies in the field of information tech- wide renowned French Chef Alain ronment. Chef Faisal Al Nashmi will be Petroleum Corporation (KPC), told the event. It tem. nology. —KUNA Ducasse. Both of them are inspired by free to appoint any local Kuwaiti NGO. the ‘epicurean dinner’ created by Auguste Escoffier, a French chef and Chefs applied and selected Late painters reflected faithfulness to Kuwait culinary writer who popularized and for the event updated traditional French cooking The Embassy of France in Kuwait KUWAIT: Kuwaitis throughout his- famous Kuwaiti artists who history and heritage. National Flag as a background, the methods. He is a legendary figure organized a large campaign of to pro- tory have expressed their faithful- expressed through their works the Among his most famous works national scarf and the old wooden among chefs and gourmets, and was mote this event and to invite all the ness to Kuwait in figures and words country’s genuine heritage. is the painting depicting “Kuwait’s dhow. He had also drawn ‘the one of the most important leaders in Kuwaiti chefs to share this culinary but some artists demonstrate their Aoub, whose works chronicle martyrs and prisoners,” which indi- boom,’ one of the famous ships in the development of modern French cui- experience. We started promoting this patriotic feelings through forma- some historical events, was born in cated that Kuwait sacrificed up to old Kuwait. sine. event on November 4, 2014 by publish- tive art. the old Kuwait City, studied at Al- 1,317 martyrs. He drew their dead His paintings also chronicle con- In 1912, Auguste Escoffier launched ing articles on our official website Among the well-known paint- Mubarakiyah School before gradu- bodies wrapped up in the National struction of the old Kuwait fences; the same menu, the same day, in sever- www.ambafrance-kw.fr, and also on our ings glorifying the land and the ating as a teacher in 1949. He Flag, ascending a non-realistic lad- one built in 1760, the other in 1814 al cities of the world. Good France/Gout Twitter and Instagram accounts martyrs are ‘the martyr’s grave,’ ‘The taught at times the State started der stretching across the clouds. and the third 1920. For his part, de France is echoing that beautiful idea. @francekoweit. The first Kuwaiti chef martyr’s soul,’ ‘may you stay safe building many schools across the He drew the prisoner, with Qutami had issued his collection, who applied was Chef Faisal Al Nashmi homeland,’ and ‘Kuwait’s martyrs country, simultaneously with the handcuffed hands, including the ‘al-jozour,’ painted faces of promi- What can be expected (Al Makan restaurant). As this event will and prisoners.’ oil discoveries. Al-Ayoub who yellow scarf depicting priceless nent personalities, landmarks and from Good France? be organized every year, we wish to The late painters, Ayoub taught for 30 years expanded his freedom. birds. He used to go to acquain- Through Gout de France initiative we count with us more Kuwaiti chefs on Hussein Al-Aoub and Bader Al- activities, in addition to teaching, In the painting ‘may you stay tances’ houses to draw their faces would like to share with the whole March 19, 2016. Qutami, are on top of the list of composing books about Kuwait’s safe homeland,’ Ayoub drew the there. —KUNA

KUWAIT: Ministry of Communications’ Undersecretary Hamid Al-Qattan meets a US Coast Guard fol- low-up team of the ISPS Code. —KUNA Kuwait committed to ISP Code: Official

KUWAIT: Kuwait is abiding by meas- Guard follow-up team of the ISPS international developments. Qattan ures of the International Ship and Port Code, of the UN’s International chairs the committee, which includes Facility Security Code (ISPS Code), a Maritime Organization (IMO). The fol- representatives of the concerned min- senior official said yesterday. low-up team pays annual inspection istries and authorities. During the cur- Kuwait has been on the ‘white list’ of visits to the Kuwaiti ports, he added. rent visit, the US follow-up team has the compliant since 2004, Ministry of According to Qattan, Kuwait’s ship offered recommendations for provid- Communications’ Undersecretary and port facility security code commit- ing training to workers from the gov- Hamid Al-Qattan said in a press state- tee, an affiliate of the cabinet, meets ernmental and no-official support bod- ment after he received a US Coast monthly to follow up relevant local and ies operating in ports, he said. —KUNA

Kuwaiti society focuses on plastic waste disposal

KUWAIT: Kuwait Environment official in charge of the program. sea, where the fish eat these items. Protection Society’s (KEPS) ‘green Plastic waste constitutes 80 per- Bahzad indicated at special efforts schools program’ this year focuses on cent of discarded materials littering and activities aimed at educating stu- educating citizens and residents how sea beds, said Bahzad. Aware of haz- dents about plastic contamination. to deal with plastic waste including ardous impact of the plastic waste, She revealed that up to 267 marine collecting items and recycling. the society had organized a campaign creatures throughout the world have The program had been launched to clean up Al-Watiah beach. been hurt with this waste. Among the with a workshop on spreading aware- Participants collected 327 plastic bags animals most affected with plastic ness and knowledge about ways to within only 20 minutes, she said, not- contamination are turtles, birds and dispose of plastic waste, also known ing that the whole beach was cleaned mammals. The society has organized micro plastic, namely waste dumped up. Human health is indirectly affect- special educating workshops for the in sea waters, said Jenan Bahzad, the ed with dumping of plastic items at fourth consecutive year. —KUNA TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 LOCAL

Vatican envoy asks for more churches

Current places ‘not enough’ for growing population KUWAIT: Petar Rajic, Vatican Envoy to Kuwait cuts the ceremonial cake with Waleed Al-Khubaizi, Director of the Economic Department at Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry. By Ben Garcia “We need places to worship; we need facili- and obligations, but only at their designated — Photos by Joseph Sharga ties to exercise our religious duties and obliga- places of worship. KUWAIT: The Vatican Ambassador to Kuwait, tions,” Rajic said. “As the number grows, we need also known as the Papal Nuncio, once again reit- places to worship and this is not just for Excellent ties erated the Church’s appeal to the government Catholics, nor for other Christian communities, Rajic lauded the excellent relations between for additional places of worship for all Christian the Orthodox, Anglicans, and Evangelicals. We the Vatican and Kuwait which has been in place sects in Kuwait. Various Christian sects are free to all feel the need for additional space for worship, for more than 47 years. “Of all the countries in the worship in Kuwait but they have legal and limit- we are growing and thankful that we are able to Arabian Peninsula, Kuwait was the first country ed space in three separate areas in Kuwait City, live, worship and pray to God in this beautiful to establish diplomatic relations with the Holy Hawally and Ahmadi. country Kuwait.” See. Therefore we are glad that we have this tra- dition of strong cooperation in various fronts,” he Not enough Residential areas said. “We are thankful because Christians can Christian sects in Kuwait include Catholics, Two months ago, the Ministry of Housing practice their faith, live and co-exist with our Evangelicals, Protestants and Orthodox. About Affairs reportedly ordered religious and charita- Muslim brothers. We have a place to worship 12 percent to 15 percent of Kuwait’s population, ble organizations in residential areas to vacate or here, we have churches, and we can celebrate including mostly expatriates, are Christians. face eviction, according to reports in the local and pray to God. For spiritual needs and the well- Speaking to local reporters marking Vatican media quoting Minister of Housing Yasser Abul. being of society and therefore contribute posi- National Day, Archbishop Petar Rajic, the Vatican Some churches and charitable organizations tively to the development of Kuwait,” he said. Ambassador to Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, United hold their activities in residential areas due to The Vatican National Day event was graced by Arab Emirates and Yemen, said the current the shortage of officially designated places of Ambassador Waleed Al-Khubaizi, Director of the places allocated for Christian worship are not worship. Christians are recognized by the state Economic Department at Kuwait’s Foreign enough for the growing population. and are allowed to conduct their religious rituals Ministry and attended by dignitaries.

Al-Naayem zone Gulf Insurance Group sponsors to help localize AUK Center for Gulf Studies

heavy industries KUWAIT: Gulf Insurance Group, the leading Communications and Investor Relations insurance service provider in Kuwait and Department at GIG, said: “GIG is pleased to KUWAIT: Al-Naayem industrial zone, to be built on a total area Middle East, announced its support and par- support this international academic confer- of eight square kilometers with KD 160 million costs, will help ticipation in the Gulf Studies Forum 2015 ence organized by the AUK Center for Gulf localize heavy industries in Kuwait, said Mohammad Al-Ajmi, organized by the AUK Center for Gulf Studies. Studies since GIG’s strategy supports social Director General of the Public Authority for Industry (PAI). GIG assured that the Forum sessions titled responsibility efforts. As such, we recognize The project aims to create a proper zone for localizing cer- (Knowledge-based Development in the Gulf) our sponsorship to this forum as important.” tain industries that cause environment problems, Ajmi said are managed by elite of experts from all over GIG pointed out that this conference is signif- yesterday. The Ministries of Public Works and Electricity and the world in addition to researchers from icantly important to a large number of Water are supervising the project. GCC countries. The Group said that its second experts and researchers on one side and The industrial zone will actually cover six square kilome- consecutive participation that will discuss the international experts on the other in devel- ters, while 2 square kilometers will be a scrape area, Ajmi said, researches related to the Region and the Gulf oping Gulf studies which achieve state public noting that the Authority is working hard on its share of the studies. interests and peoples’ sustainable develop- state development projects, especially construction ones. Khaled Al-Sanousi, Head of Corporate ment. According to the PAI Director, an agreement will be concluded KUWAIT: Health Minister Dr Ali Al-Obaidi inaugurates the 6th Kuwait Medica Healthcare with the Ministry of Public Works to include Al-Naayem on its Conference and Exhibition 2015. — KUNA list of development projects. The Ministry sets the timetable Ministry supports for implementing the project, he stressed. — KUNA private health sector Kuwaiti research Hospitals expansion projects continue: minister papers recognized

KUWAIT: Supporting the private sector in the administrative sector for physicians and nurs- DOHA: The Fourth International Conference on the Various health field comes in line with the 2015-2016 es. Fields of Science selected four Kuwaiti research papers for the development plan, which calls for involving The committee will streamline procedures electronic booklet to be distributed among the Arab universi- this sector in the development of the country, in terms of appointments, vacations and res- ties. Health Minister Dr Ali Al-Obaidi said. ignations, Rashidi said. He added that during The researches were compiled by Dr Abdullah Sahar, Dr The government’s support also material- the meetings of the Committee, data and Jassem Al-Tamar, Dr Salwa Al-Jassar and Dr Sana’ Al-Asfour, izes the vision of His Highness the Amir procedures for the appointment of doctors said CEO of the conference Dr Nabah Tarboush in a state- Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and nurses, Kuwaitis and non-Kuwaitis, in ment following the activities of the first day of the event. aiming at turning Kuwait into a financial and addition to resignation and end of service The four Kuwaiti researches are among 98 international- commercial hub, the minister added. procedures were presented. Also during the ly-recognized ones which were selected out of 117 Minister Obaidi made those statements meeting, Rashidi stressed the need to acti- researches presented to the conference; they will serve as during the inauguration of the 6th Kuwait vate the electronic system associated with references at the students and academics around the world, Medica Healthcare Conference and Exhibition the Civil Service Commission to facilitate, she said. The conference honored 13 Qatari scientific 2015, which kicked off yesterday and runs develop and simplify the procedures. celebrities for their academic excellence and their achieve- through tomorrow. He reiterated that the ments in realizing Qatar’s National Vision 2030, she went on. conference affirms the ministry’s support for Drug pricing Among the event’s guests of honor are President of the the private sector, and added that there were Separately, the Gulf Cooperation Council’s International Islamic Charitable Organization (IICO) and great interactions from global, Gulf and local (GCC) drug pricing committee convened yes- advisor to the Amiri Diwan Dr Abdullah Al-Maatouq, and companies during the conference. terday, with committee members attending. Honorary President of Kuwait Disabled Sport Club Sheikha Asked about construction projects of the In an inaugural speech in the three-day meet- Sheikha Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah. ministry, Al-Obaidi stated that his ministry ing, the ministry’s Assistant Undersecretary The conference, themed “scientific research - the corner- continues establishing and expanding works for Medicine and Medical Equipment Dr stone of sustainable development in the digital age,” opened at a number of hospitals like Al-Razi, Al-Sabah Omar Al-Sayed Omar said that the GCC health earlier today under auspices of Qatari Minister of Education and Hussain Makki Juma, as well as others ministers support and pay more attention to and Higher Education Dr Mohammad bin Abdulwahed Al- across the country. the meetings of Gulf committees as they are a Hamadi and in the presence of Kuwait Ambassador to Qatar key priority to the joint Gulf health programs. Met’eb Al-Mutawteh. It is organized by the London-based Administrative services He noted that the GCC health ministers Social Research and Consulting Center in cooperation with In other news, the ministry’s Assistant issued several resolutions that underlined the the Social Containment Consulting Center in Qatar. — KUNA Undersecretary for Administrative Affairs significance of formulating and implement- Marzouq Al-Rashidi said that a joint commit- ing the Gulf programs related to the drug tee was formed in coordination with the Civil pricing. Service committee (CSC) and concerned The drug pricing unit is a continuous departments to simplify the procedures and dynamic one and needs daily efforts as long for the development of the services in as the drug is registered by the countries, he said, noting thus the meet- ing comes to complete the previous discussions and measures taken by the GCC member states to activate the drug pricing. Since the establishment of this unit, it worked on unifying the prices of drugs imported into the GCC member states and reducing the prices of several medicines, he said. Dr Omar lauded efforts exerted by Director-General of the Executive Board of the GCC Health Ministers Council Dr Tawfiq Khoja for his constant support to all the GCC programs and technical committees and for adopting the joint Gulf health programs especial- ly in the field of drug pric- ing. — KUNA TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 From the Arabic press

Al-Rai Al-Qabas Blind, deaf to OIL PRICES Paid to stay home one’s own problems

By Dr Alia Shuaib By Waleed Al-Ghanim

was hurt when I read the news about a recent- ocial Affairs minister said any employee who ly married young man, aged 24 years, who was stays home will not receive outstanding Ifound hanging himself because of accumulat- Swork rewards, because he cannot equate ed debts and financial commitments. I was deeply those non-committed with those who work hard, saddened because of the situation of a country and Almighty Allah will ask him about that. (Al- that preys on its children, a country that hates its Rai, 10/3/2015). citizens, one that does not care about its psycho- I do not know in which government in the logical or mental health. Is it realistic for things to respected world, and not the failed one, a leader go so bad for this young man to a point to kill can appear to announce in a press conference, himself out of desperation? What a harsh time that there are some employees staying home, a and a miserable society we are living in! Is it possi- catastrophe by itself for the minister to admit that ble for this to take place in a state that donates she knows that some of her employees stay millions to Arab and African countries each year, home! But the bigger catastrophe is that the min- sometimes for unnecessary matters and does not ister, instead of taking legal action against them, constitute a priority, like solving the problems of tells them that they will not get the outstanding its citizens who may kill themselves because of work rewards. This leads us to the greatest catas- debts? Is it possible that the state is giving them trophe in the issue which is that those who stay a closed eye, and does not want to know of their home do receive their salaries without working, problems? and who may have enjoyed the outstanding work rewards in past years! What is scary is that how many like him are Al-Jarida thinking to die, then change their minds out of Your Excellency the minister, if you are serious the smallest of hopes and faith, then face the about reforming the situation at the Social Affairs same circumstances or may be worse. How many Ministry, then the first step you take is to termi- hundreds like him, whose dreams have died, and nate employees you say they are staying home, ambitions postponed because of debts or lack of Al-Anbaa then send them to court to demand that they pay employment or obstacles on the way of projects back the salaries they got during the years they and others. How many others who may have stayed home without working. Their superiors resorted to crimes and deviation of all its forms Learn from, not follow the myths who are covering them should also be sent to because they lost hope of a beautiful tomorrow? court because they are partners with them in that crime, and stealing of public funds, because who- A tweet had comments and laughter following By Nermin Al-Hoti on a suggestion to force men to marry two ever did not care whether his salary is deserved or not, does not deserve to remain in his job. As you women to solve the problems of spinsters. This is t is narcissism when someone is in the pursuit of grat- his beauty with his own hands. His legend ends with the said in your statement, you will be held account- something that may lead to family break up and ification from egotistic admiration of one’s own era of science just like the myths of Oedipus and Electra increase divorce possibilities and children going Iattributes. In the past it was only a myth, evolving dismantled by Freud. able, because you are the decision maker today. astray. I do not know why some MPs do not adopt through history to a point that became a psychiatric Narcissistic complex is defined by Freud when the Administrative reform is possible in Kuwait, a proposal to solve the financial problems of citi- complex. person loves himself to a point that he forgets the admi- and has a clear path, and its tools are available. zens, as a response to their mercy who elected Narcissus was a flower found in Greek myths, a flower ration of others of him, and also makes him forget his Though laws and rules are sufficient, we lack one them and put them in the decision making chair adored more by men than women. That flower used to love and admiration of others, which leads, at the end to thing: a strong and honest official who has the or at least to have mercy towards many who enchant its lovers with its cool colors and features inspir- having the person, be it man or woman to detach from courage to take the correct decisions, and bear reached the point of suicide. The news of this ing poets to write about it. The story flourished through the society he lives in, inviting his end. Those who search the burden of facing the corrupted both small and man’s suicide must not go by easily. It should their myths, as it gained is admiration with its mysteri- within themselves will find that they are an extension of big, and not bow to pressure and bargaining. If ous beauty. the Narcissus legend, but the text and depth of its such an official becomes available, things will be receive societal, psychological and governmental The Greeks referred its origin to one of the beauty vocabulary vary from one person to another. Many are attention, and it must call for creating instant right, and if we lose such an official, what the min- legends named Narcissus, who was distinguished by who admire themselves. The issue is not in the legends, ister said will happen: employees staying home committees, and have offices to solve problems of beauty. His love for his own beauty made many speak nor our love of Narcissus, but how to control the such citizens and cater to their psychological receive outstanding rewards. Have you heard an him. The Greek gods decided that he should die. In their Narcissus within ourselves. We do not differ from the employment corruption such as this? needs. plans to kill him, they sent Echo to him, and waited for idea that human beings should love themselves but that How long the government will continue play- him in the river while he was on his way to hunt. He love must be under control, so that it does not spread ing ignorant, deaf and blind? How long the coun- heard his name being repeated. So he went to the river, and becomes a psychological illness that makes those try will keep eating its citizens and wipe up its where he found someone with similar beauty like his around you leave, and make you dislike those who are mouth and hands while asking for more? How and was calling him, and took much time while asking around you. The best things are what is in the middle, Crime him who are you, and all what he got is a repetition of and the best of beauty is to love all flowers of the uni- long will it keep donating millions abroad, while Report there is a financial difficulty inside which is now what he says. He threw himself to get rid of the person verse. You should be educated by the legends of your threatening the security and safety of the citizens with the beauty like his own, although what was he see- history but do not follow them, so that you do not per- ing is the reflection of his own image. Thus he destroyed ish and have the same end like the legendary Narcissus. and the cohesiveness of the family? Ex-officer’s symbolic protest gains attention KUWAIT: A retired military officer staged a sit-in at Irada News Square with a sheep and clover (trifolium), claiming animal In brief rights are better than theirs. The citizen, according to the source, hanged a sign stating their priorities on the sheep. The police team led by Maj General Abdelfattah Al-Ali went to the site and negotiated with the citizen, who after long State monitoring tweets and exhausting negotiations broke his sit-in. Criminal KUWAIT: The state authorities are monitoring the tweets detectives and state security were informed about the of users tweeting on sensitive and banned topics, said a event. source at the Ministry of Interior adding that memos are being prepared to seek the opinion of the public prosecu- Lover caught in cupboard tion. The source said that several tweeters violated the law A citizen alleged that his divorced wife was commit- through their messages over twitter, and the charges will ting vice acts with youngsters, and complained to include insults to the Amiri entity, and those causing break Salmiya police. According to reports, when security up of relations with sister countries. The tweeters will be men went to the flat of the accused, they were asked sent to the prosecution or arrested based on the prosecu- to wait upon knocking at the door. When she opened tion’s opinion. — Al-Qabas the door they went in and searched the flat with the permission of her ex-husband as the rent contract is in GCC railway project his name. Police found her lover, a man in his twenties, KUWAIT: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) secre- hiding in the clothes cupboard in a suspicious condi- tariat general asked Kuwait to nominate officials in the tion. The man and the woman were taken to the police communications projects to participate with a Gulf station and were charged with consented sex. The delegation that represents the authority responsible man was also charged with entering someone else’s for the Gulf train and for a visit to seven countries part residence without permission. of a study on their railways. Sources said the Gulf dele- gation will visit France, Britain, Russia, China, USA, Missing girl found in man’s flat Canada and Australia, in order to check their expertise A girl who was reported missing was found in a Bneid in railways and trains, and transfer this experience to Al-Gar flat. Police found that the man in the flat gave her Arab Gulf countries, that are getting ready to establish refuge in exchange of sex. Both are arrested and were sent a railway network among them. The sources said the to the prosecution. Gulf train project is a strategic and economic goal for the region’s countries, scheduled to be completed in ten years. However, it needs an international example, Car rental owner files case so it fulfils what is required from it, be it to transfer car- A Bahraini national complained at the Salmiya go or passengers, the source said adding the mecha- police station that the owner of a car rental office nism of this train will be centralized and its administra- refused to receive a sports-utility-vehicle (SUV) he tive and technical responsibilities will be distributed rented for three months at KD 100 per day. The com- among Gulf countries.—Al-Rai plainant alleged that this is a breach of contract. According to the source, the Bahraini rented the car three months ago, did not return it on time and 51459 travel bans in 2014: Enezi ignored the calls from the car rental office. The owner KUWAIT: The Justice Ministry stated that 51,459 travel went to the station and filed a complaint. The source bans were issued in 2014 and 65,599 in 2013, said added that the Bahraini went to return the car three Chancellor Anwar Al-Enezi, the Head of Verdict Execution months later and asked to schedule payments of the Department at the Justice Ministry, adding the number of accumulated rent, but the owner refused and litigations is alarmingly increasing compared to the few demanded the full compensation. He was arrested and past years. 1,836,499 arrest and restraint orders had been detained. issued in 2014 (up to November alone) compared to 1,665,117 issued in 2013 for litigations including family, Missing documents commercial and civil concerns. “The usual time for filing travel ban requests was before the summer vacation and An Arab mandoub (expeditor) complained that he that this proved to be very successful because so many citi- lost passports, cash and stamps. According to the zens and expats tend to leave the country to spend the report, as soon as he entered one of the social affairs vacation abroad,” Enezi said. Enezi highlighted that applica- and labor ministry buildings, he found the documents tions to confiscate vehicles also increased to 2,166,868 in missing. He alleged that his lost bag contained 14 pass- 2014 compared to 1,700,805 in 2013. He added that bank ports, stamps worth KD 600 and KD 900 in cash. Police confiscation orders were 1,128,465 in 2014 compared to are investigating. only 856,392 in 2013. — Al-Jarida

Woman complains against husband Audit bureau A citizen called police to arrest her drunkard hus- KUWAIT: Minister of Communication and Minister of band after his behavior was unable to bear. The citi- State for Municipal Affairs, Essa Al-Kandari urged all zen who lives in Sabah Al-Salem alleged that her municipality leaders and senior officials to cooperate husband, after getting drunk, disturbed her and the with the State Audit Bureau and warned that their neighbors. The man was arrested and referred to ‘remaining in office’ was subject to how they would concerned authorities. handle the remarks mentioned in the audit bureau reports. Addressing municipality senior officials after meeting them, Kandari told them that issuing decrees Man threatens to cancel nationality on recruiting them do not necessarily mean they A citizen accused his uncle of threatening to revoke his would stay in office for full four-year tenures if they nationality over the phone, saying he has evidence of dual were not up to their job responsibilities. nationality. He gave police the messages he received from the accused person. Detectives are investigating. — Al-Rai TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 Christian protests over church attacks ‘Rollercoaster’ Iran nuke talks hang in balance turn violent Page 8 Page 11 Netanyahu vows no Palestinian state if re-elected Herzog vows to revive peace efforts with Palestinians

JERUSALEM: Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin outcome of the race. Speaking to the nrg news and necessary security arrangements for Israel, Palestinians. Most demographers agree that if Netanyahu, yesterday ruled out the establish- website, Netanyahu said that turning over cap- and if the Palestinians recognize Israel as the Israel continues to control millions of Putin reappears after ment of a Palestinian state and vowed to tured territory to the Palestinians would clear state of the Jewish people, we will be willing in a Palestinians, the country will not be able to strengthen construction in east Jerusalem set- the way for Islamic extremists to take control real peace agreement to reach a solution of a remain both Jewish and democratic. 10-day absence tlements as he appealed to hard-line voters in a and attack Israel. demilitarized Palestinian state alongside the Palestinian official Hanan Ashrawi said frenzied, final day of campaigning on the eve of Jewish state,” he said at the time. Netanyahu’s comments were “dangerous” and national elections. Dangerous comments Despite that pledge, two rounds of peace could plunge the region into violence. ST PETERSBURG: Russian President Vladimir Putin resur- While Netanyahu’s comments were election “Whoever ignores that is burying his head in talks have failed and Netanyahu has continued “This is the real Netanyahu,” she said. “From faced yesterday, smiling and looking healthy after a 10- rhetoric, they nonetheless put him further at the sand. The left is doing that, burying its head to expand Jewish settlements. The international the beginning, he was attempting to carry out a day absence from public view that has fueled a wave of odds with the international community, boding grand deception by pretending to be in favor of rumors. Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atanbayev, who met poorly for already strained relations with the US the two-state solution. But what he was actually with Putin yesterday in St. Petersburg’s ornate Konstantin and other key allies if he wins a third consecu- doing on the ground is destroying the chances Palace, referred to the swirling speculation about Putin’s tive term. of peace.” Earlier, Netanyahu paid a last-minute health at the start of their conversation, saying that the Netanyahu, who has governed for the past visit to Har Homa, a Jewish development in east Russian leader is in good shape. Atanbayev said that Putin six years and has long been the most dominant Jerusalem that Netanyahu helped build during drove him around the palace’s park before the talks, personality in Israeli politics, has watched his his first term as prime minister in 1997. The adding that “the president of Russia not only walks, but standing plummet in recent weeks. sprawling district now houses more than 20,000 speeds around.” Recent opinion polls show his Likud Party residents. While Israel considers the area a part “It would be dull without gossip,” Putin retorted with a lagging behind Isaac Herzog’s Zionist Union. of its capital, the international community con- smile. The 62-year-old Russian leader was last seen in pub- Herzog, a centrist who has vowed to revive siders it an illegal settlement on occupied land. lic on March 5, when he hosted Italian Prime Minister peace efforts with the Palestinians, repair ties The Palestinians seek east Jerusalem as their Matteo Renzi. The Kremlin insisted that he continued with the US and reduce the growing gaps capital. “We will preserve Jerusalem’s unity in all holding official meetings, and released photos and video between rich and poor, confidently predicted an its parts. We will continue to build and fortify of Putin at meetings on national television, but Russian “upheaval” was imminent. Jerusalem so that its division won’t be possible media suggested the images had actually been shot much Today’s election caps an acrimonious three- and it will stay united forever,” Netanyahu said, earlier. Putin’s decision to abruptly postpone a trip to month campaign that is widely seen as a refer- explaining that Har Homa was built to contain Kazakhstan planned for last week fueled speculation that endum on Netanyahu. The hard-line leader has Palestinian development in the nearby West he was unwell or isolated by a palace coup. A Swiss news- portrayed himself as the only politician capable Bank town of Bethlehem. paper claimed that Putin had traveled to Switzerland, of confronting Israel’s numerous security chal- There was no immediate comment from US where it said Putin’s reported girlfriend - former Olympic lenges, while his opponents have focused on officials. Netanyahu dissolved his government in gold-winning gymnast Alina Kabayeva - had given birth to the country’s high cost of living and presented December and ordered the new election, two their baby. The Kremlin has denied all those allegations. Netanyahu as imperious and out of touch with years ahead of schedule, in the belief that he Putin’s spokesman Dmitry Peskov greeted reporters the common man. would cruise to a new term. EAST JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister and Likud party’s candidate running for Monday with sarcastic remarks: “So, have you seen the As Netanyahu’s poll numbers have dropped general elections, Benjamin Netanyahu is surrounded by bodyguards during his vis- Yesterday, it was Herzog, Netanyahu’s chief in recent days, he has appeared increasingly rival, who appeared confident and upbeat. president paralyzed and seized by the generals? He has it in Har Homa, an Israeli settlement neighbourhood of annexed east Jerusalem, yes- just come back from Switzerland where he attended the desperate, stepping up his nationalistic rhetoric terday on the eve of Israel’s general elections. — AFP Visiting his party headquarters, Herzog, a in a series of interviews to local media to appeal trained lawyer and scion of a prominent political delivery.” Asked if Putin’s condition required treatment by to his core base. Netanyahu has also complained in the sand time after time,” he said in the video community overwhelmingly supports the estab- family, talked about a “crucial” vote for the coun- an osteopath, the spokesman retorted: “Yes, the osteopath of an international conspiracy to oust him, fund- interview. When asked if that means a lishment of a Palestinian state in the West Bank, try and warned against splitting the anti- was with the generals.” The sarcastic remarks appeared to ed by wealthy foreigners who dislike him, and Palestinian state will not be established if he is east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip, areas captured by Netanyahu vote among the various centrist par- reflect the Kremlin’s dismay with rumors and its inability to on Sunday night, he addressed an outdoor rally elected, Netanyahu replied, “Indeed.” Israel in 1967, and opposes settlement construc- ties. “Whoever wants an upheaval has to vote for stop them from spreading. before tens of thousands of hard-line supporters It was the latest - and clearest - attempt by tion. Netanyahu’s tough new position is likely to us,” Herzog said. Yair Lapid, leader of the centrist On a more serious note, Peskov added that the Kremlin in Tel Aviv. Netanyahu to disavow his earlier support for worsen his already strained ties with his western Yesh Atid party, which has also focused on the has grown tired of refuting speculation about Putin’s con- The strategy is aimed at siphoning off voters Palestinian independence, which he first laid out allies if he is re-elected. plight of Israel’s middle class, received a warm dition. “The more we talk about it, the more intense (the from nationalistic rivals, but risks alienating cen- in a landmark 2009 speech. It also raises questions about what kind of welcome at a campaign stop in the coastal city speculation) becomes,” he said. — AP trist voters who are expected to determine the “If we get this guarantee for demilitarization vision he has for solving the conflict with the of Netanya. —AP INTERNATIONAL TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 ‘Rollercoaster’ Iran nuke talks hang in balance A full deal is expected by July

Iraq needs more air strikes to dislodge IS in Tikrit - officials

BAGHDAD: Iraq said yesterday it had put its Tikrit offen- “The situation is under control and we will choose the sive on hold and senior officials called for more air strikes appropriate time to attack the enemy and liberate the to dislodge Islamic State militants who have laid explosives area”. across Saddam Hussein’s home city and still hold its central districts. Kurdish advance The offensive, the largest yet against insurgents who More than 20,000 troops and Iranian-backed Shi’ite mili- swept through northern Iraq in June, has been stalled for tia are taking part in the operation, which began two four days after Iraqi security forces and mainly Shi’ite militia weeks ago, supported by a relatively small contingent of pushed into Tikrit last week. Sunni fighters from Tikrit and the surrounding Salahuddin They have struggled to gain further ground against the province. militants who are holed up in a vast complex of palaces The assault is seen as a litmus test for any future built when Saddam was in power. attempt to retake the large northern city of Mosul, which is Military officials in Tikrit said there was no fighting yes- likely to be a far more complex operation. terday in the city that was home to more than 250,000 Meanwhile, coalition air strikes helped Kurdish forces BRUSSELS: Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif (2nd R) meets yesterday with foreign ministers from people before it was overrun last year. Government forces seize the villages of Wahda, Saada, and Khalid from Islamic France, Laurent Fabius (L), Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier (2L), UK Philip Hammond (R) and EU foreign policy are in control of most of the northern Qadisiya district as State in the north - part of a broader week-long offensive chief Federica Mogherini at the European External Action service (EEA) headquarters in Brussels. — AFP well as the southern and western outskirts of the city, trap- to drive the militants away from the oil-rich city of Kirkuk. ping the militants in an area bounded by the river that runs Shi’ite Turkmen fighters also clashed for a fourth day LAUSANNE: Iran nuclear talks hung in Rouhani thaw “Apparently the administration is on through Tikrit. Though Iraqi forces and allied militiamen with Islamic State insurgents near the village of Bashir, the balance yesterday with a senior US The United States and Iran have not the cusp of entering into a very bad deal may have the insurgents in a chokehold, officials are south of Kirkuk. In Baghdad, Special US presidential envoy official saying it remained unclear had diplomatic relations for 35 years but with one of the worst regimes in the increasingly citing air power as necessary to drive out the General John Allen addressed a meeting of Iraqi and for- whether the outlines of a deal could be the 2013 election of President Hassan world that would allow them to continue remaining insurgents. eign officials aimed at kicking off efforts to stabilise and agreed by a March 31 deadline. Rouhani resulted in a minor thaw and a to have their nuclear infrastructure,” “We need air support from any force that can work with rebuild territories retaken from Islamic State. After a five-hour meeting between US diplomatic push to resolve the more than Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell us against IS,” Deputy Minister of Defence Ibrahim al-Lami The militants have been driven back by Kurdish pesh- Secretary of State John Kerry and his decade-old nuclear standoff. told CNN on Sunday. told Reuters, declining to say whether he meant from the merga forces in the north, and Shi’ite militia known as Iranian counterpart, the official said Iran Under a landmark November 2013 Speaking in Egypt over the weekend, US-led coalition or Iran, which is playing a role in the Hashid Shaabi (Popular Mobilisation) in the eastern still had “very tough choices” to make. interim deal with the “P5+1” powers, Kerry sought to ease such concerns, say- assault. The US-led coalition has been conspicuously province of Diyala, the Baghdad belt and north of the capi- “Iran still needs to make some very tough Tehran stopped expanding its activities ing that the aim is “not just to get any absent from the offensive, the biggest to be undertaken by tal. Allen said Iraqis were beginning to recover from life and necessary choices,” the official said in in return for minor sanctions relief. Since deal, it is to get the right deal”. Zarif said Iraqi forces since Islamic State seized around a third of the under Islamic State in Diyala and “hopefully soon” in Tikrit, Switzerland where the crucial round of then the parties have been pushing for a on Sunday that “several questions need country last summer including Tikrit. but that local governance would prove difficult because talks was being held this week. lasting accord. to be discussed, those where we haven’t Interior Minister Mohammed al-Ghaban said authorities many officials had been killed, were in exile, or co-operated “We still hope to be able to get there But to the alarm of Iran’s foe Israel, US found a solution yet and also those had put a temporary halt to the offensive in Tikrit, capital of with Islamic State. The Prime Minister’s spokesman Rafid al- but quite frankly we still don’t know if we Republicans and Washington’s Gulf allies, where we have found solutions but the mainly Sunni Muslim Salahuddin province. Jaboori echoed calls for more air strikes: “We have been will be able to,” the official said on condi- the US looks to have abandoned where we need to discuss certain details.” “We have decided to halt military operations in saying we need more air support for all operations,” he told tion of anonymity, likening the talks to a demands that Iran dismantle all nuclear Salahuddin in order to reduce casualties among our heroic Reuters. “We welcome air support for all our campaigns “rollercoaster”. activities. Instead it appears prepared to ‘We need clarity’ forces... and to preserve the remaining infrastructure,” the against IS”. Asked by Reuters for his response to the Iraqi Iran and six world powers are pushing tolerate a small programme under tight Some progress has been made minister said at a news conference in the city of Samarra, appeals, Allen said it would not be appropriate for him to to reach by the end of the month what controls and potentially shipping abroad towards a deal but the two sides remain 95 kilometres (60 miles) north of Baghdad. comment. — Reuters the official called a “political framework some of Iran’s nuclear material, possibly far apart on several key issues. that addresses the major elements of a to Russia. In theory this still leaves Iran These include the future size of Iran’s comprehensive deal”. Such an accord with the possibility to get the bomb, crit- uranium enrichment capacities-which would reduce in scale Iran’s nuclear pro- ics say. Iran says its nuclear programme is can make nuclear fuel but also the core gramme in order to ease fears that it exclusively peaceful. Last week 47 US of a bomb-the pace at which sanctions might develop atomic weapons in Republicans took the unprecedented would be lifted and the accord’s dura- exchange for sanctions relief. A full deal step of writing an open letter to Iran’s tion. is due by July. Earlier yesterday Kerry leaders. “We are closer than we were but there met with Iranian Foreign Minister They warned that any nuclear deal is still a long way to go. There are areas Mohammad Javad Zarif in the Swiss city could be modified by Congress or where we have made progress and areas of Lausanne before the latter left for revoked “with the stroke of a pen” by where we have yet to make any Brussels for talks with European foreign whomever succeeds President Barack progress,” British Foreign Secretary Philip ministers. Zarif was due to return late Obama, a Democrat. Hammond said yesterday. Two deadlines, yesterday and hold further talks with The Obama administration has been in July and November, were missed but Kerry on Tuesday, when political direc- trying to dissuade lawmakers from pass- in view of the controversy in tors from the other five powers-Russia, ing legislation that would force the presi- Washington-and pressure in Iran on China, Britain, France and Germany-will dent to submit any Iran deal to Congress Rouhani to deliver-extending yet again start to arrive. for approval. will be very tough.—AFP

AMMAN: In this Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015 file photo, supporters of Zaki Bani Ersheid, No. 2 in the Jordanian branch of the Brotherhood, hold photos of him outside the state security court in Amman. Jordan’s Muslim Brotherhood has formally split after 70 years — a breakup blamed on long-running ideological disputes, but also on a government attempt to further weaken what was once the country’s main opposition group. — AP Jordan’s Muslim Brotherhood split, blow to regional group

AMMAN: Jordan’s Muslim Brotherhood Brotherhood faction, still loyal to the Ersheid - to 18 month in prison for criti- has formally split after 70 years - a regional movement, alleged the govern- cizing the Emirates. The problems have breakup blamed on long-running ideo- ment engineered the division to weak- put the Brotherhood in Jordan at its logical disputes, but also on a govern- en the group. “This is a coup sponsored lowest point in years. It has no represen- ment attempt to further weaken what by the regime,” spokesman Murad tation in parliament because of self- was once the country’s main opposition Adaileh told the AP. imposed election boycotts and is losing group. The split deals a new blow to the Jordan’s government has declined to some of its young to extremist groups. region-wide Brotherhood movement, address the allegation. The split was for- “The Brotherhood, by relative stan- which has been outlawed as a terror malized earlier this month when the dards, is fairly innocuous, it’s not a signif- group by close Jordan allies Egypt, government licensed Thnaibat’s break- icant threat to the kingdom,” said David Saudi Arabia and the United Arab away faction, and the core movement Schenker of the Washington Institute for Emirates. promptly expelled the defectors. Near East Policy, a think tank. “Many are In Jordan, some warned that the The status of the second faction now asking what (is the) utility of kicking the government’s apparent divide-and-con- remains unclear. A government official Brotherhood when it is down.” trol policy could backfire by pushing said that while Thnaibat’s group regis- The division was preceded by long- more Brotherhood supporters into the tered with the authorities, the other fac- running ideological disagreements ranks of extremists like the Islamic State tion “did not correct” its status, suggest- between “doves” and “hawks,” exacerbat- group, seen as the main threat to the ing it is legally vulnerable. The official ed by 2007 Gaza takeover of the Islamic country’s stability. The new, officially spoke on condition of anonymity militant Hamas, the Palestinian branch licensed Brotherhood offshoot defines because he was not authorized to dis- of the Brotherhood. The doves empha- itself as a strictly Jordanian group, say- cuss the issue with reporters. size their Jordanian identity, want to ing it cut ties with the regional move- It’s not clear if Jordan’s authorities keep Hamas at arm’s length, appear ment to avoid being branded as mili- eventually will outlaw the original more willing to play by the restrictive tant. “We were concerned that we movement, which is deeply rooted in rules set by the monarchy and want to would be considered as a terrorist Jordanian society through its social out- focus on “dawa,” or preaching. The organization if we continued to be a reach and welfare system. There have hawks criticize government policies branch of an organization branded as a been some signs of a crackdown in more openly, particularly Jordan’s peace terrorist group,” the group’s leader, recent months, including the arrests of treaty with Israel, embrace Hamas and Abdel-Majid Thnaibat, told The about two dozen activists and the sen- see the Brotherhood as a transnational Associated Press. The larger tencing of the group’s No. 2 - Zaki Bani movement.—AP Bahrain seizes bomb-making equipment aboard bus from Iraq MANAMA: Bahraini security forces have search on the King Fahd Causeway link- person on security grounds on his return seized bomb-making equipment being ing Bahrain with Saudi Arabia. to the country coming out of Iraq, and smuggled from Iraq aboard a passenger “The bag belonged to a passenger, a seized materials used in carrying out ter- bus for use in attacks in the Gulf Arab juvenile, who had brought it from Iraq, at rorist acts. But the ministry did not iden- kingdom, the public prosecutor said. Like the request of a person there who is tify him. its neighbors, Bahrain is concerned that wanted for terrorist crimes, to deliver to Bahrain, which is home to the US sectarian wars in nearby Iraq and Syria someone in the Sitra area with the aim of Navy’s Fifth Fleet, was swept by unrest may undermine stability at home, where using it for terrorist operations,” the state during the 2011 “Arab Spring” uprisings a Sunni Muslim monarchy has weathered news agency BNA said, quoting the pros- when the majority Shiites demanded a protest movement and sporadic bomb- ecutor. political reforms. The government has ings by the restive Shiite Muslim majori- Sitra is a mainly a Shiite village locat- denied any discrimination. Bahrain and ty. ed in the northern part of the Gulf island fellow Sunni Muslim-ruled Gulf monar- The public prosecutor said that country. Bahrain has seen a number of chies are taking part in an American-led authorities found 140 detonators, 41 deadly attacks mainly against security campaign to bomb Islamic State mili- electrical circuits, a remote control device forces in recent years involving home- tants in Syria and Iraq from the air, and and some cellular telephones hidden made bombs detonated remotely. The have fought home-grown Islamist radi- inside electrical appliances aboard the Interior Ministry had earlier said that calization with surveillance and bus when it was stopped for a routine security personnel had arrested a wanted arrests.—Reuters TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 INTERNATIONAL Brazil’s president facing turbulence, ouster unlikely Protesters march in more than 150 cities

RIO DE JANEIRO: Massive protests calling for number of examples to demonstrate presidents Party would flip sides and now be the target, the impeachment of Brazilian President Dilma can survive very low approval ratings and very after 30 years of glories,” wrote Eliane Rousseff have narrowed her options to fend off unpopular periods of governance.” It cited a Cantanhede, a political columnist for the Estado political and economic crises and will mean moment in 1999 when Brazil’s currency was de S. Paulo newspaper. more turbulence for the nation in the months to devalued and then-President Fernando She said the government needs to make come, but her ouster remains highly unlikely, Henrique Cardoso had single-digit poll numbers stronger efforts to work with the opposition and analysts said yesterday. but remained in office. push through congressional measures to spark Polls showed the Rousseff government’s pop- Brazil’s moribund economy and make substan- ularity had already been cut in half before Workers’ Party falls from grace tial political reforms. TEGUCIGALPA: Forensic staffers and policemen stand in the site where three Sunday’s protests, compared to when she won Still, Sunday’s wave of protests illustrated how Political commentator Merval Pereira wrote in models were shot dead, in the Valle de Angeles municipality, in Tegucigalpa, re-election in October, and the sheer size of the on Sunday. Two men accompanying the models were injured during the challenge facing her was splashed across front shooting. —AFP pages of newspapers yesterday with photos of the surprisingly huge crowds seeking her removal. Mexican star journalist’s Anger over a sprawling corruption scheme sparked Sunday’s marches in more than 150 cities. Federal prosecutors say they’ve uncovered firing sparks outrage Brazil’s biggest graft case yet in a kickback scheme at state-run oil company Petrobras, with MEXICO CITY: Mexicans awakened yesterday that President Enrique Pena Nieto’s wife, former at least $800 million paid by construction and without the familiar radio voice of a prominent soap opera star Angelica Rivera, had bought a engineering firms in bribes to politically appoint- journalist who revealed the first lady’s controver- Mexico City mansion from a government contrac- ed former executives at the oil company, all in sial mansion. Carmen Aristegui, a fixture of morn- tor. exchange for winning inflated contracts. ing broadcasts, was fired by MVS Radio late The story sparked allegations of conflict of Investigators say some of the money was fun- Sunday after a public feud with her employer over interest, which the president denied, adding more neled back to the campaign coffers of the the dismissal of two of her investigative reporters. headaches to Pena Nieto as he faced protests over Workers’ Party and its allies. Dozens of congress- Her firing became the top trending topic on the presumed massacre of 43 missing college stu- Twitter in Mexico, with supporters calling on users dents. men and some former executive branch officials, to unfollow MVS’s account over what they consid- Aristegui said her two fired colleagues had including two former chiefs of staff to Rousseff, er an affront to freedom of speech. been investigating the sale of a house to Finance are under investigation. The president, who Aristegui showed up yesterday in front of Minister Luis Videgaray by a government contrac- served as chairwoman of Petrobras’ board dur- MVS’s Mexico City headquarters, where she was tor as well as the alleged summary execution of ing several years as the graft took place, isn’t greeted by a dozen cheering supporters. Vowing gang suspects by soldiers. implicated, but polls show a large majority of to fight back, she warned that her lawyers said her Pena Nieto’s spokesman could not be reached Brazilians think she knew about the pilfering. firing was wrong and a violation of freedom of for comment about Aristegui’s sacking. speech. Poor public services SAO PAULO: Demonstrators shout anti-government slogans during a march demand- Aristegui said her country “is seeing an authori- Fans angry Some 210,000 people gathered on a main ing the impeachment of Brazil’s President Dilma Rousseff in Sao Paulo, Brazil, tarian wind and an ominous sign of something Her supporters swiftly voiced their discontent Sao Paulo avenue Sunday, a crowd larger than Sunday. Much protester ire was focused on a kickback scheme at state-run oil compa- that we have to avoid.” “This team of journalists is on social media, with the hashtag any seen during daily anti-government rallies in ny Petrobras, which prosecutors call the biggest corruption scheme ever uncovered committed to fighting for freedom of speech,” she #InDefenseOfAristegui2 (#EndefensadeAristegui2). June 2013, when anger was less focused on in Brazil. —AP said, adding that her firing appeared to have been “Carmen Aristegui is an essential voice in our Rousseff herself than on public anger over poor planned well in advance, “with much resources public life. Her departure from MVS seriously dam- public services and perceived endemic political and much power.” ages freedom of speech in Mexico,” leading histori- corruption in general. far from grace the ruling Workers’ Party has fallen yesterday’s O Globo newspaper that if Brazil had MVS said it parted ways with Aristegui because an Enrique Krauze wrote on Twitter. Protests now are expected to be less fre- since it took the presidency in 2003. Created in a parliamentary system, “the government would she had conditioned her staying with the broad- Renowned political scientist Denise Dresser quent. The right-leaning groups who organized 1980 by a collection of strong unions that fought have fallen by now,” noting that even Rousseff’s caster on the company reinstating her two immediately announced she would no longer Sunday’s events on social media have called for a Brazil’s long dictatorship and a wide range of allies in Congress, many of whom are under reporters, and the company could not accept such appear on MVS while actor Diego Luna lamented new round on April 12. non-government organizations representing a investigation in the Petrobras graft case, are “conditions and ultimatums.” Aristegui’s firing. MVS said the two journalists had been fired for “What sadness that from tomorrow Despite the anger expressed in the streets, wide cross-section of Brazilian society, the party blocking reform measures she has introduced. using the company’s name without permission in @AristeguiOline will not have a space in this coun- few analysts expect Rousseff’s departure. has always been known for its ability to rally its “To recover her political legitimacy, she their participation in MexicoLeaks, a website creat- try that demands plurality and voices that chal- “While the next few months will be very diffi- adherents into the streets. would have to reinvent herself, she would have ed by civic groups and other media outlets to lenge us,” Luna tweeted. Leftist Senator Alejandro cult, we still don’t think the government is head- Not so now. Pro-Rousseff demonstrations to become a different Dilma, which appears receive leaked documents showing acts of corrup- Encinas called it a “hard blow for the kind of jour- ed to a governability crisis or that Rousseff is like- that put thousands in the streets last Friday were impossible,” Pereira wrote. “But she’ll continue tion. nalism our country needs.” ly to be impeached,” the Eurasia Group political tepid events orchestrated by unions and social to govern ... amid political and economic crises The radio station’s website was briefly hacked risk consulting firm wrote in yesterday’s note. groups, lacking the energy and spontaneity seen that are increasingly severe, until the presiden- Lavish mansion on Saturday, with a message apologizing for the Eurasia emphasized that it’s difficult to Sunday. tial election of 2018 allows and alternation of Aristegui’s investigative team revealed last year firing of Aristegui’s two journalists. —AFP impeach a sitting president, and that “there are a “Who could have imagined that the Workers’ power.” —AP TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 INTERNATIONAL US to keep more troops in Afghanistan into 2016

WASHINGTON: The Obama administration is leaders have argued that they will need to con- edged the discussions about slowing the pace en on more political importance. instability, terrorist safe havens and direct abandoning plans to cut the number of US tinue pursuing the remnants of al-Qaida and to of troop withdrawal. But they increasingly are Military leaders want to keep what they con- threats to the United States.” forces in Afghanistan to 5,500 by year’s end, monitor Islamic State militants looking to recruit confident that the military will get its way and sider a “modest” number of troops in The original plan Obama announced last bowing to military leaders who want to keep in Afghanistan. keep a robust force in Afghanistan beyond Afghanistan longer in order to protect America’s year would reduce the number of US troops to more troops there, including many into the Officials say President Barack Obama proba- year’s end. investment and provide as much training and 5,500 by the end of 2015, and take all but a rou- 2016 fighting season, US officials say. bly will use a Washington visit by Afghan The administration, however, has shown no advice as possible to Afghan forces. Maintaining tine, embassy-based security force out by the While no final decision on numbers has President Ashraf Ghani this month as the time to inclination so far for going beyond 2016; that’s a a more stable number of troops, military leaders end of 2016. The embassy security mission been made, the officials said the administration announce his decision on a new withdrawal hard line drawn by the president when he have argued, would allow better support of the varies widely around the world, but could total is poised to slow withdrawal plans and probably timeline. announced the withdrawal plan. Afghans during this summer’s fighting season 1,000 troops. will allow many of the 9,800 American troops to US officials familiar with the debate said it’s The 2016 deadline is considered a politically and better prepare them for 2016 battles. The officials spoke on condition of anonymi- remain well into next year. not clear yet whether the White House will crucial national security goal for Obama, who Members of Congress, including Sen. John ty because they were not authorized to discuss There also are discussions about keeping a agree to a small, symbolic decrease by the end promised to get all troops out by the end of his McCain, chairman of the Senate Armed Services the matter publicly before final decisions have steady number of counterterrorism troops into of this year or insist on a larger cut. They note presidency, ending America’s longest war. Committee, also have expressed concerns about been made. 2015, including options under which some that there is some stiff opposition to any Obama, who also pledged to end the a sharp drawdown this year. During a hearing When Carter was in Kabul for meetings with would remain in the country or be nearby change, largely from national security adviser war in Iraq, has had to send troops back last month, McCain said a lack of presence in his military leaders in February, he told reporters beyond 2016. Susan Rice. there to help Iraqi security forces fight Afghanistan would create a vacuum and “allow that the new thinking on troop levels was fueled Currently, about 2,000 US troops are con- In recent weeks, Pentagon leaders, including Islamic State militants. So his promise to terrorists to foment the same disaster in by the improving relations between the US and ducting counterterrorism missions, and military Defense Secretary Ash Carter, have acknowl- withdraw troops from Afghanistan has tak- Afghanistan as we have seen in Iraq - growing Afghan governments. —AP Police trial opens decade after deaths triggered French riots

PARIS: Two police officers went survived with severe burns. “This apartheid” within society. The tions. That could have been on trial yesterday over the deaths is very important for us. We’ve rioting, arson, and running clash- avoided, (but) the idea of acting of two youths that sparked been waiting for this moment for es with security forces that broke to rescue youths who were from weeks of deadly rioting in 10 years,” said Adel Benna, Zyed’s out in Clichy quickly spread the projects never came to mind,” France’s deprived housing brother, as he arrived for the trial. across hundreds of other com- charged Jean-Pierre Mignard, a estates nearly a decade ago. “We’re very happy to have this munities and lasted for three lawyer for the victims’ families. The two officers, Sebastien trial.” weeks. Presiding judge Nicolas Leger Gaillemin and Stephanie Klein The five-day trial will examine Debate over the darker conse- said the court was “well aware of arrived stony-faced at the court whether Gaillemin and Klein quences of that alienation has the particular suffering” of the in Rennes, west of Paris, to face knew the youths were in grave recently returned to the top of families, but stressed at the out- charges they failed to prevent the danger, but failed to act. News of the political agenda in the wake set that it was neither “a trial of electrocution deaths of Bouna Benna and Traore’s deaths ignit- of the jihadist attacks in January the national police” nor a ruling Traore, 15, and Zyed Benna, 17. ed the pent-up rage of younger in Paris by youths who had on the “riots that shook France”. The teenagers died on October Clichy residents over poverty, embraced radical Islam. Critics 27, 2005, in a high-voltage elec- police harassment and general say the long battle to try ‘Never wanted this case’ tricity sub-station near their alienation in the ghetto-like proj- Gaillemin, 41 and Klein, 38, is fur- Gaillemin and Klein are being KIEV: Ukrainians say goodbye to military volunteers, before they are dis- Clichy-sous-Bois housing project ects. ther proof of the discrimination tried for “non-assistance to indi- patched on rotation to eastern Ukraine, to join the ranks of battalion “Sich” northeast of Paris, as they hid Almost 10 years on, French against the blighted “banlieues” viduals in danger”, a charge car- fighting against pro-Russian separatists, in Kiev, Ukraine, yesterday. Ukraine from police officers milling near- Prime Minister Manuel Valls (suburbs) and their residents. rying a maximum prison term of authorities have requested the implementation of a United Nations peace- by. recently said the areas still repre- “Three kids were victims, two five years and fines of up to keeping force to be deployed in its eastern regions, to police a cease-fire Their friend Muhittin Altun sent “territorial, social and ethnic of them died in atrocious condi- 75,000 euros ($79,000). Benna, Traore and Altun were between government troops and Russian-backed separatist forces. —AP all known in Clichy as well- behaved teenagers, and support- With pomp and no regrets, Crimea ers of their families say the trio did what project youths learn to celebrates choice to join Russia do when police start chasing them: they ran from the anticipat- SEVASTOPOL: Crimea kicked off celebra- referendum” on a “day that has gone down ed harassment and humiliation. tions that will see fireworks and concerts in the history of the country” as Crimea’s par- That led them into the yesterday to mark a year since a controver- liament held an extraordinary session that kicked off with the Russian anthem, aired fenced-off electrical transform- sial vote to join Russia that the West blasted as an illegal takeover. live on Russian television. ers. According to accounts and The annexation of Ukraine’s Black Sea In Sevastopol, the home of Russia’s transcripts of police radio peninsula however won President Vladimir Black Sea fleet, celebrations were to cul- exchanges-surrounding police Putin huge acclaim at home and Moscow is minate Monday evening in a four-hour- discussed the fleeing youths and pulling out all the stops to mark the first long concert on the central square fol- noted the dire consequences in anniversary of the hastily-arranged referen- lowed by a firework display. the event they had sought shel- dum in which nearly 97 percent of Crimeans Across Crimea, the day began with a ter inside the high-voltage voted to leave Ukraine and become part of special lesson taught in all the peninsu- installation. But Daniel Merchat, Russia. la’s schools on “Russia and Crimea’s the lawyer for Klein and The red, white and blue Russian flag flut- shared fate.” To many Russians, Crimea’s Gaillemin, says none of the evi- tered throughout the peninsula, and in the takeover by Russia renders historic justice dence indicates the defendants port city of Sevastopol a column of cars after Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev knew the boys were in the com- roared its way through central squares and handed the strategically important plex and facing grave danger. memorial sites as Crimeans celebrated last peninsula to Ukraine in 1954 in what was Several earlier hearings and year’s vote, which was followed two days lat- then a largely symbolic move since internal investigations have er by Putin signing the official treaty incor- Ukraine and Russia were both part of the cleared Gaillemin and Klein of porating Crimea into Russia. USSR. error and negligence, but judges The referendum took place after Putin Later in the day, Simferopol residents ordered the case back to court. sent thousands of Russian troops to the were to watch a theatrical show on the Loic Lecouplier, deputy national peninsula, prompting the West to call it an reunification on the main square as well secretary for the National Police illegal occupation and slap Moscow with as performances by Russian pop singers, Alliance, said the hearing should sanctions, plunging ties with Moscow to Cossacks and a naval choir. not boil down to “the trial of the lows unseen since the Cold War. Putin’s annexation of Crimea struck a RENNES: Siyakha Traore, left, brother of Bouna, his sister Aissatou, center, and mother Tokhonte suburb police officers against the The move also fuelled a separatist upris- deep chord with Russians who are in an arrive at the Rennes courtroom, western France, yesterday, in Rennes, western France. Two suburb youth.” ing in eastern Ukraine, which Russia is wide- increasingly nationalistic mood and his police officers go on trial over the deaths of minority teenagers Zyed Benna and Bouna Troare “It’s the trial of two police offi- ly believed to have backed with troops and popularity has soared to new heights in a troubled Paris suburb, in 2005, deaths that prompted weeks of national riots and exposed cers, who were very young when weapons during an 11-month-long battle over the takeover, accompanied by an deep discrimination and social tensions that France has failed to mend a decade later. —AP the event happened.” —AFP with Ukrainian forces in which more than aggressive television propaganda cam- 6,000 people have died. The Kremlin denies paign celebrating the so-called “Russian any involvement. Spring.” “The choice was obvious: Ukraine, blood However while most Crimeans back Norway’s Catholic Church denies fraud and war, or Russia, peace and stability,” their new rulers, the peninsula’s indige- Crimea’s leader Sergei Aksyonov said in a nous Tatar minority who largely opposed speech to officials in the regional capital of joining Russia have complained about a OSLO: Norway’s Catholic Church, “unsatisfactory.” between 2010 and 2014, which vides subsidies to organised reli- Simferopol, a rosette of tricolour ribbons climate of fear over a crackdown on their accused of exaggerating its The Oslo diocese and two offi- enabled it to obtain 50 million kro- gions, the size of which is deter- pinned to his lapel. media and detentions of activists. membership numbers to obtain cials, the bishop and the financial ner (more than $6.0 million or 5.8 mined by the number of members. “We are especially grateful to Vladimir Putin revealed in a bombastic documen- more state aid, denied yesterday officer, are suspected of fraudu- million euros) in state subsidies. “The opinion of the diocese is Vladimirovich Putin. Our president showed tary broadcast on Sunday on state television it had engaged in fraud but lently registering thousands of In Norway, a predominantly that we have done nothing illegal,” courage and firm political will and states- how he gave the secret order to annex Crimea admitted its past methods were people on its membership lists Protestant country, the state pro- the interim head of the Church, manlike wisdom by supporting the results after deposed Ukrainian president Viktor Lisa Wade, said at the presentation of the referendum,” Aksyonov said. Yanukovych fled a pro-Western street revolt in of the Church’s report on the affair. Kiev to rescue Russian speakers from “nation- Police have accused the Oslo A ‘historic referendum’ alists”. The strongman also said that he was diocese of going through the tele- Putin’s envoy to Crimea, Oleg ready to put nuclear forces on alert if Western phone directory in search of immi- Belaventsev, hailed what he called a “historic forces intervened in Crimea. —AFP grants whose names appear to sig- nal that they come from Catholic countries, and adding them to the Russia launches massive membership list, sometimes with- out their knowledge. Arctic military drills Norway’s Roman Catholic minority had 140,000 registered MOSCOW: The Russian military yesterday on Sakhalin Island, the Kamchatka members in 2014, more than dou- launched sweeping military maneuvers in Peninsula and other areas in the far east. ble the number in 2010. To explain the Arctic and other areas, a show of force In southern Siberia, the Russian air force the jump, the Church has claimed ordered by President Vladimir Putin amid launched maneuvers at the firing range in it benefitted from a large wave of spiraling tensions with the West over Buryatia, and in southwestern Russia, Catholic immigrants, notably Poles, Ukraine. about 500 troops were involved in tactical who practised their religion but The five-day Arctic drills involving drills on shooting ranges in the Stavropol did not register with the Church, 38,000 servicemen, more than 50 surface region. which in turn cost the Church ships and submarines and 110 aircraft are The war games come as Russia-West more but did not result in intended to check the readiness of Russia’s ties are strained over the Ukrainian crisis increased state subsidies. Northern Fleet and the military’s ability to and the West is also boosting its military “The diocese never intended to deploy additional forces from central preparedness. The United States is plan- Russia. ning to conduct joint exercises with forces do anything other than identify Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said from Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania later this the Catholics in the country,” Wade “the new challenges and military threats month. said. “Unfortunately, the method require further increase of the armed Putin, speaking in a documentary that was used led to some incor- forces’ capabilities.” broadcast by state television late Sunday, rect registrations,” she added. As part of the exercise the military will said that Russia was ready to bring its Wade said 7,000 people had check its ability to beef up its forces on the nuclear weapons into a state of alert during been mistakenly registered, includ- Arctic Novaya Zemlya and Franz Josef Land last year’s tensions over the Crimean ing Catholics who did not want to archipelagos and protect the state borders Peninsula and the overthrow of Ukraine’s be included on the list and non- on land, in the air and at sea, Shoigu said in Moscow-friendly president. Catholics. Their names have now televised remarks. Russian forces quickly took over been removed from the list. Other tasks will include the airlifting of Crimea following the ouster of President DAMASAK: A photo taken on March 15, 2015 and released by the Nigerian Army press service More than 21,000 other cases special operations forces to distant loca- Viktor Yanukovych, blocking Ukrainian the next day shows troops crossing the Kaffin-Hausa bridge earlier destroyed by terrorists and have yet to be clarified. Police raid- tions and efforts to counter the enemy’s troops at their bases and setting the stage reconstructed by military engineers at Damasak in northeastern Nigeria Borno State. A military ed the Catholic Church’s offices on diversions. for a hastily called referendum on seces- offensive by troops from Chad and Niger has retaken the northeastern Nigerian town of February 26 on suspicions of The military elsewhere in Russia also sion. Russia then annexed Crimea on launched drills. About 3,000 troops drilled March 19, 2014. —AP Damasak and left some 200 Islamists dead, a Chadian security source said yesterday. —AFP “aggravated fraud.” —AFP INTERNATIONAL TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015

Pakistani accused of planning Toronto attack kept in custody

TORONTO: A Pakistani man who is accused of planning inspired by Islamic State, is seeking to deport him as a record of travel to Pakistan and allegedly underwent rammed two soldiers in Quebec with his car, killing one. to bomb the US consulate in Toronto and other targets in security threat rather than charge him with criminal combat training in Libya, the Canada Border Services Malik, who came to Canada as a student in 2004 and the city’s financial district will remain in custody pending offenses. That strategy has been criticized as irresponsi- Agency said last week. became a permanent resident in 2009, told the under- an immigration review in April, Canadian media reported ble by human rights lawyers. The deportation process The accusations against him have not been proven in cover officer of his plans to make a video of the bomb- yesterday. can take months but the threshold for proof of guilt is far court, and Malik’s lawyer could not immediately be ings he planned to encourage others, the CBSA said. Jahanzeb Malik, 33, said little as he appeared by vide- lower than in criminal law. reached for comment. Authorities also said he claimed to be a personal friend olink before the brief immigration hearing at a jail in Malik’s next review hearing is set for April 14, the Canada has been on heightened alert since a gun- of US cleric Anwar Al-Awlaki, who was killed in a US Lindsay, Ontario, northeast of Toronto, the reports said. Canadian Broadcasting Corp said. man attacked the Parliament building in Ottawa in drone strike on Yemen in 2011. He was told he would be detained until his next hearing Malik was befriended by an undercover Royal October after fatally shooting a soldier at a nearby war Another Pakistani man suspected of militant links, on the grounds he may be “a danger to the public”. Canadian Mounted Police officer during a long investiga- memorial. The attack by a so-called “lone wolf” Canadian Muhammad Aqeeq Ansari, is also being held by Canada The Canadian government, which has said Malik was tion into the activities of the former student, who has a convert to Islam came two days after another convert awaiting possible deportation. — Reuters Christian protests over church attacks turn violent Deadliest attack on Pakistan’s Christians

LAHORE: Thousands of Christians rioted in the Pakistani city of Lahore yesterday, smashing property and vehicles as they clashed with police in a second day of protests against twin Taleban suicide bombings of churches that left 17 dead. Sunday’s attacks in the Youhanabad neigh- bourhood of the eastern city sparked mob vio- lence in which two other suspected militants were killed, with Christians smashing up cars and a bus station in a rare show of anger from the persecuted minority group. Protesters again turned violent yesterday, despite the presence of 1,000 police officers, who fired water cannon in an effort to contain the rampaging crowds. ALLAHABAD: Indian Christians and social activists take part in a peace-rally and protest Muhammad Usman, a senior bureaucrat, said against the rape of a nun in Allahabad yesterday. Hundreds of priests, school girls and paramilitary Rangers forces were later called in other protesters staged a peaceful rally yesterday in the Indian city of Kolkata to support to try to restore the peace. an elderly nun who was gang-raped at her convent school. Nuns dressed in white habits Tariq Butt, a doctor at General Hospital, told joined other women of all backgrounds and ages, including girls still in their uniforms, to AFP one more person was killed and 12 injured express their sorrow over the attack and anger over incessant levels of sexual assault in after they were run over by a speeding car that India. — AFP was attempting to flee the riots. Police spokeswoman Nabila Ghazanfar told AFP that a female suspect had been detained in Christians say under siege connection with the incident. The fresh violence comes after the death toll from Sunday’s bomb- in Modi’s India after rape ings-the deadliest attack on Pakistan’s Christians in more than a year-rose to 17 after three more died from their injuries, according to hospital KOLKATA: Christians in India said yester- “I am not Indian any more, at least in the officials. day that the Hindu nationalist government eyes of the proponents of the Hindu Demonstrators expressed their anger at the of Prime Minister Narendra Modi had not Rashtra,” prominent retired police chief Julio killings, many arming themselves with clubs ISLAMABAD: Members of a Pakistani civil society take part in a demonstration to condemn Sunday’s sui- done enough to protect their religion, after Ribeiro wrote in a column for the Indian while others carried giant crosses as they took to a spate of attacks including the rape of a 75- Express paper. cide bombing attack near two churches, in Islamabad, Pakistan, yesterday. Pakistani police fired tear gas the streets of Youhanabad yesterday. canisters after minority Christians clashed with police in the eastern city of Lahore, a day after Taleban year-old nun at the weekend. “We are on the roads to get justice, we want Christians prayed and held vigils across The RSS condemned the rape. suicide bombers killed more than a dozen people as they targeted two churches in the city, the latest protection,” said Maqbool Bhatti, a 50-year-old attack against religious minorities in this increasingly fractured country. — AP the country to protest against the rape dur- “No attack should be tolerated on any government employee who criticised the ing an armed assault on a convent school, woman in India. Be it a Hindu, a Muslim or a authorities for failing to take adequate security the worst in a series of incidents that follow- Christian,” Suresh Joshi, RSS general secre- measures to safeguard Christians. “There was no ers of the faith say are making them feel tary, told reporters on Sunday. proper security on Sunday, the government unwelcome in their own country. Opposition lawmakers in the upper should protect all churches,” he told AFP. The convent attack also comes in the house of parliament on Monday said the Wife fears for missing same month an interview emerged of a attack could damage the secular fabric of Churches ‘soft targets’ man being held on death row for a fatal the country, where about a fifth of 1.27 bil- Christians volunteers meanwhile established gang rape in which he showed no remorse lion people identify themselves as belong- their own security check-points, tying ropes Bangladesh top spokesman and blamed the victim. ing to faiths other than Hinduism. The large across the roads leading into Youhanabad and The government banned the documen- majority of those are Muslims. patting down worshippers who had come to tary, “India’s Daughter”, a decision which Since December, half a dozen churches offer prayers for the dead ahead of funerals DHAKA: Bangladesh’s main opposition party Ahmed is one of scores of BNP officials to angered some Indians who said it should be have been vandalised, at the same time as planned for today. accused the security services yesterday of have disappeared in recent months. aired to highlight the prevalence of gender conservative groups have campaigned to Some carried placards with slogans such as abducting its top spokesman after he was Although the government has denied any inequality and sex crimes. convert to Hinduism members of “foreign “Why do you kill us?”, “Stop killing Christians,” allegedly picked up by plain-clothes detectives role in the disappearances, rights groups Father Savari Muthu, spokesman for the religions” such as Islam and Christianity. and “Let us live”. Protests were also held in from a hideout nearly a week ago. claim the officials were picked up by the Delhi Catholic Archdiocese and a national In February, shortly after US President Karachi, while special prayers were planned at Salahuddin Ahmed took over as the security forces on the instructions of their Church organiser, said the government had Barack Obama called for respect for reli- churches throughout the country and Christian Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) spokesman political masters. not taken “concrete action to protect gious freedom in India, Modi broke a long groups and members of civil society held can- in January when his predecessor was arrested Rights advocates fear they may have been Christians. silence on the subject and, speaking at a dle-lit vigils. for inciting violence at the start of a transport killed or are being held without trial. Ahmed’s “We have to raise our voice against the church event, vowed a crackdown on reli- Christians, who make up around two percent blockade called by the BNP leader Khaleda Zia. wife said she now feared for her husband’s life, atrocities. Christians will not tolerate this gious violence. of Pakistan’s mostly Muslim population of 180 humiliation,” he said, joining critics who say Muthu said schools across the country “Ahmed has been picked up, blindfolded telling AFP: “If he’s accused of anything they million, have been targeted recent years, often and led by law-enforcing agencies and we should prosecute him, but please keep him Modi has not done enough to ensure reli- were holding prayer meetings on Monday. over allegations of profanity regarding the gious harmony in a country with a history of Christians held a silent protest in the streets believe he is still in their custody. He should be alive.” Quran or the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). freed or brought to a court,” Zia’s aide Shimul Ahmed was a three times former member inter-faith bloodshed. of Mumbai on Sunday. Sunday’s attacks were the worst on the com- The motive for the assault and armed Protesters demanded more security for Biswas told AFP. of parliament and was also a communications munity since a devastating double suicide- Ahmed’s wife Hasina Ahmed said detectives minister when Zia was prime minister from robbery in the eastern state of West Bengal churches and other religious institutions. bombing in the northwestern city of Peshawar had last Tuesday raided the house where her 2001 to 2006. on Saturday was not clear. On Sunday, a Catholic church being built in in September 2013 killed 82 people. the northern state of Haryana was van- That came months after more than 3,000 husband has been hiding in recent weeks and More than 100 people have benn killed Mother Teresa legacy questioned dalised and its cross replaced with a small Muslim protesters torched some 100 houses as then taken him to an undisclosed destination. since Zia called the transport blockade as part It happened weeks after the leader of statue of a Hindu god. they rampaged through Joseph Colony, another A janitor at the house in Dhaka’s Uttara sub- of a campaign to force Prime Minister Sheikh India’s main Hindu nationalist group said Police in West Bengal said they had Christian neighbourhood of Lahore, following urb told reporters up to four plainclothes Hasina to hold fresh elections, which are not the charitable work of West Bengal-based detained five of seven men who broke into blasphemy allegations against a Christian man. policemen who identified themselves as otherwise due until 2019. Mother Teresa had been aimed at religious the Convent of Jesus and Mary School in Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan detectives had led a blindfolded detainee to a The BNP and 19 other parties boycotted the conversion. Nadia district, northeast of Kolkata, capital said the Taliban had turned their attention on minibus. last elections in January 2014 over fears that Critics say the remarks by the leader of of West Bengal. The man suspected of rape places of worship and other “soft targets” However national police chief Shahidul they would be rigged. the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), an has not been caught. because ongoing military operations had ham- Haque on Saturday denied that police or any Zia, a two-time former premier who faces organization close to the government, con- The rape victim was discharged from pered their ability to fight the army. “Due to other law-enforcing agencies had abducted an arrest warrant on corruption charges, has tributed to a climate where Christians are hospital on Sunday night and appealed for military operation the noose has been tighten- Ahmed. been holed up in her leadership compound seen as outsiders, despite a more than peace, said Jaydeep Saha, a police official ing around militants and now it has significant- “Police have submitted reports on Ahmed since January. Addressing the media last week 1,500-year presence in India. investigating the crime. — Reuters ly contained them,” he told a committee. “They to the High Court in which they have said they for the first time since she called for the trans- are now hitting the softest targets like church- did not arrest him and Ahmed is not in their port blockade, she accused Sheikh Hasina of es, mosques and schools. It shows their frustra- custody,” deputy attorney general Mohammad turning the country into a one-party state by tion.” — AFP Bashirullah told AFP. refusing her calls for new polls. — AFP

Maldives says criticism of jailing ex-president unjust

COLOMBO: The Maldives government said yesterday it Maumoon said that the government did not inter- free election in 2008 ended a 30-year autocratic rule by is being unjustly criticized and treated with double fere with the proceedings, respecting separation of the foreign minister’s father and the current president’s standards over the terrorism conviction and 13-year jail powers. Nasheed’s supporters have claimed the crimi- half-brother. The transition to democracy has been dif- term for the country’s former president. nal case was aimed at eliminating Nasheed as President ficult, with the judiciary being accused of being partial Foreign Minister Dunya Maumoon told reporters Yameen Abdul Gayoom’s opponent in the 2018 presi- toward the Gayoom family and judges being under while visiting Sri Lanka that her country is a small nation dential election. Nasheed’s victory in the country’s first qualified. — AP being subjected to intense scrutiny. The United States, European Union and Amnesty International were among those raising concerns about the court process that found former President Mohamed Nasheed guilty last Friday over the arrest of a top judge three years ago. The court ruled the arrest was akin to abduction.”We will not accept double stan- dards in terms of judgments from other countries,” Maumoon said, adding that many countries warranted serious attention other than the Maldives. “However we feel ...we are a small country, we are facing an unjust sit- uation where we are being judged harshly.” Nasheed was the archipelago state’s first democrati- cally elected president in 2008 but resigned after public protests stemmed from the arrest of Criminal Court Chief Judge Abdulla Mohamed. Nasheed was charged with illegal arrest soon after his resignation but the prosecutor general withdrew it last month and filed a more serious charge of terrorism. His lawyers withdrew midway through proceedings, saying they were not given enough time to prepare COLOMBO: Maldives Foreign Minister Dunya Maumoon addresses a press conference in the Sri KABUL: In Wednesday, March 11, 2015 photo, native Afghan, Nezamuddin, center, speaks their defense and the court was rushing the trial. Lankan capital Colombo yesterday. The Maldives government March 15 told its critics to respect a with International Organization for Migration employees, after returning to Afghanistan Nasheed was sentenced within 23 days of being controversial decision to jail the honeymoon islands’ first-ever democratically-elected president for through Pakistan’s border crossing, Torkham, east of Kabul, Afghanistan. — AP charged with terrorism and after 10 hearings. 13 years amid a growing global backlash over the verdict. — AFP INTERNATIONAL TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 Hong Kong tycoon Kwok’s plea for bail rejected

HONG KONG: A Hong Kong court rejected property lion) given to former city deputy leader Rafael Hui. Yeung Chun-kuen. The court bars publication of any and ears” in government for Sun Hung Kai, while he tycoon Thomas Kwok’s plea for bail yesterday as he The high-profile case shocked the city and deep- detail on the reasoning for the ruling. enjoyed an extravagant standard of living. appeals a five-year prison sentence for bribing a senior ened anger over cosy ties between officialdom and big Hui, the city’s former Chief Secretary for Hong Kong is seen as relatively corruption-free-it official in a corruption case which shocked the city. business. Administration, was jailed for seven and a half years on a was ranked the joint 15th cleanest country or territory in The 63-year-old, who was the joint chairman of Kwok, who is serving his sentence at the city’s maxi- total of five graft charges, making him the highest-rank- 2013 by watchdog Transparency International. But the Hong Kong’s biggest property company Sun Hung Kai, mum security Stanley Prison, has appealed the ruling ing official in the city’s history to be found guilty of tak- case fuelled anger at what locals call “collusion” between was jailed in December after he was found guilty of con- and asked the court to grant him bail as he awaits the ing bribes. government and businesses, with many young Hong spiracy to commit misconduct in a public office over a outcome. During a seven-month jury trial leading to the con- Kongers struggling with a lack of opportunity amid series of payments totalling HK$8.5 million (US$1.1 mil- But his plea was rejected by appeals court judge viction, the prosecution said Hui was made the “eyes soaring property prices and stagnant wages. — AFP Police arrest Anwar’s daughter for sedition Move intended to silence opposition: Fahmi

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian police arrested the dominance. Anwar and his three-member opposi- Human Rights Watch slammed Nurul Izzah’s eldest daughter of jailed opposition leader Anwar tion alliance were seen as the most potent political arrest. “Prime Minister Najib needs to recognize Ibrahim for alleged sedition yesterday, a move threat to Prime Minister Najib Razak’s ruling coali- that every sedition arrest of an opposition political slammed by critics as a clampdown on dissent. tion. Anwar led his alliance to unprecedented gains leader is another step towards the destruction of Nurul Izzah Anwar was detained to assist police in 2008 elections and made further inroads in 2013 rights-respecting democracy in Malaysia, and bring in their investigation of an opposition rally and also polls. Najib’s National Front coalition won with a this campaign of abuse to an end,” Phil Robertson, for making “contemptuous remarks that those in slimmer majority and lost the popular vote to the the group’s deputy Asia director, said in a state- the judiciary system had sold their souls to the dev- opposition. ment. — AP il,” national police chief Khalid Abu Bakar said in a statement. A lawmaker and a vice president of her father’s People’s Justice Party, Nurul Izzah was detained JAKARTA: Switzerland’s Foreign Minister Didier Burkhalter (L) shakes hands with his because of a speech she made last week in Indonesian counterpart Retno Marsudi (R) at the Indonesian Foreign Affairs Ministry office Parliament, said Fahmi Fadzil, the party’s communi- in Jakarta yesterday. Marsudi and Burkhalter held a bilateral meeting to boost relations cations director. between the two countries. — AFP He said the arrest was “ridiculous and outra- geous,” noting that lawmakers have immunity over comments made in Parliament. Fahmi said the Myanmar’s student protesters move was intended to silence the opposition after Anwar was jailed for five years last month when he at odds with older activists lost a final appeal against a sodomy conviction. Anwar’s family said the arrest was “nothing short of intimidation and an abuse of power.” Nurul YANGON: Kyaw Min Yu’s first political rally was liners remained in positions of power and Izzah went to police voluntarily to give a statement almost his last. On March 16, 1988, he joined a could derail the reforms. about the opposition rally she participated in earli- group of Yangon students protesting against er this month, said her sister Nurul Nuha Anwar. the military junta which then ran Myanmar. DIFFERING OVER TACTICS They had reached a lakeside spot called White The differences with the groups in the for- Arrest is unconstitutional Bridge when police and soldiers attacked. mal opposition came to the fore when students “We maintain that the arrest of our sister is ille- By some accounts, nearly 100 students were continued to protest against the education law gal and unconstitutional. We deplore the glaring clubbed to death or drowned in what has even after the government accepted their selective persecution,” Nurul Nuha said in a family come to be known as the Red Bridge incident, demands for change. The students do not statement, calling for the release of her sister. the day 27 years ago when the White Bridge believe that parliament will enact the changes Khalid said she will be released once police turned red with blood. to legislation they say will stifle academic free- complete their interrogation. Anwar’s arrest was “Sometimes, I can still hear the sound of the dom. “We want to see the written agreement,” KUALA LUMPUR: This file picture taken on February 17, 2015 shows Nurul Izzah, the daughter of widely seen at home and abroad as politically police’s red wood sticks hitting students’ heads,” Lin Htet Naing said. Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, gesturing as she leaves after her father’s legal case motivated to eliminate any threats to the ruling said Kyaw Min Yu, who managed to escape and Suu Kyi’s advisers say she is frustrated stu- against Malaysia’s foreign minister at the Duta court complex in Kuala Lumpur. The eldest daughter coalition, whose popularity has been eroding since became one of the leaders of the famous anti- dents will not give the parliamentary process of Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim said yesterday she had been arrested for sedition after 2008 after more than five decades of unquestioned junta group, the 88 Generation Students. time to play out. “The students demanded reading out in parliament parts of a speech by her father criticizing his recent jailing. — AFP Students are again protesting in Myanmar results by a certain date,” Nyan Win, one of the and police have responded harshly. Kyaw Min top leaders at the NLD, told Reuters. “She told Yu, now 46, says he has regular contact with them that would be impossible. They don’t Four Thai the students and has given informal advice but understand the process of parliament.” Militant group leader he declined to give details. The 88 Generation, too, says the students activists to But it’s clear that some of the older genera- need to have faith in the reform. tion of activists, including democracy icon “They don’t trust the parliamentary process,” face court in captured in Philippines Aung San Suu Kyi, are at odds with the stu- Ko Ko Gyi, one of the 88 Generation’s top lead- dents over their tactics. ers, told Reuters. ‘landmark case’ MANILA: Philippine troops have captured the Marwan was the militant killed by the Filipino Suu Kyi now fights her battles in parliament “And it is true that parliament doesn’t repre- leader of a Muslim rebel group in the south who commandos but it added additional tests were as leader of the opposition and is engaged in a sent everybody. But they should celebrate BANGKOK: Four Thai activists are to has been linked to bombings and a beheading needed to confirm his death. fraught reform process with the semi-civilian what they have won. If we want any reform, we face military court yesterday on charges and accused of protecting two terror suspects Around that time, 42 elite policemen also government of President Thein Sein. The stu- need to establish the proper institutions to of violating junta orders banning public wanted by the United States, officials said yester- were killed in gunbattles with different Muslim dents have little faith the government is com- make laws.” gatherings in what a rights group called day. rebel groups in the far-flung region, the largest mitted to completing Myanmar’s transition to Suu Kyi returned to Myanmar just weeks a “landmark case” that could stir indig- Army and police forces arrested Mohammad single-day government combat loss in recent democracy. after the Red Bridge incident in 1988 and nation at strict military rule. The students still revere Suu Kyi and are became the icon of the movement to unseat The four men are members of a Ali Tambako and five of his men late Sunday memory. That prompted the military last month reluctant to criticise her. But their isolation from the military regime. She was awarded the group called Resistant Citizen, which while the militants were traveling in a motorcy- to launch an offensive that has killed about 100 the reform process they worry is going Nobel Peace Prize in 1991. has held demonstrations around the cle sidecar taxi to a seaport in southern General suspected insurgents and led to the capture of nowhere is likely to push them to take to the Despite being banned under the constitu- Thai capital in defiance of the military Santos city. Three grenades and two guns were Tambako. streets again and radicalise Myanmar’s politics. tion from becoming president, she remains government which came to power after seized from the militants, who did not put up a Tambako’s former armed group, the hardline “I never believed in this reform process,” said committed to reforms through a managed a coup in May. fight, according to a police report. Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement, Lin Htet Naing, one of the leaders of the All process. Her party, the NLD, will contest an “It is a landmark case. Hundreds Tambako, who formed the group Justice for expelled him last year after his men beheaded a Burma Federation of Student Unions (ABSFU). election later this year regardless of whether or have been sent to military court since “We students always said the government not she can be president. the coup but this case is an outright Islamic Movement with about 70 armed fight- farmer in an attack on a Christian community in was lying. The same people control the wealth But the links between revolution and stu- persecution of peaceful expression of ers last year, has been suspected by the mili- the south. That prompted him to form his own and operate the system as under military rule. dent protesters is part of the country’s history. dissent,” said Sunai Phasuk of Human tary of giving refuge in his southern strong- rebel band, which has been linked to several They just changed uniform. “ Suu Kyi’s father, independence hero Aung Rights Watch. hold to top Malaysian terror suspect Zulkifli deadly bombings and attacks, including the After 49 years of military rule, Thein Sein’s San, was a student leader when he began The four are Arnon Numpa, 30, a bin Hir, also known as Marwan, and long- clashes with police commandos, military officials semi-civilian government took power in 2011 opposing the British colonial government. rights lawyer, Sirawith Seritiwat, 24, a and made wide-ranging and rapid reforms that The ABSFU traces its ancestry back to the wanted Filipino bombing suspect Abdul Basit said. student, Punsak Srithep, 48, an activist Usman. Insurgents involved in that skirmish were also initially inspired optimism Myanmar would students union initially founded by Aung San in whose son was killed in a 2010 army become fully democratic. But the reforms have 1935. Kyaw Min Yu sees many parallels crackdown on anti-government pro- The United States and the Philippines have from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the stalled. between his generation and the current crop of testers and Wannakiet Choosuwan, 36, offered huge rewards for the capture and prose- largest insurgent group in the south which Thein Sein and many of his cabinet col- students. a taxi driver. cution of Marwan and Usman. Marwan was signed a peace accord with the government last leagues are former generals. Serving officers “They are just like me, like I was,” he said in They held a pro-election demonstra- reportedly killed in a Jan. 25 raid by Filipino year. The Moro rebels said the clash was acciden- are guaranteed a quarter of the seats in parlia- an interview. “They are in their twenties, I was tion in February and set up mock voting police anti-terror commandos in the marshy tal because the police commandos did not coor- ment under a constitution written by the last about twenty then. They will be shocked and tables. Arnon also faces additional military government. nervous now, after their first experience of vio- heartland of the country’s south. The FBI said in dinate their anti-terror raid with their group as charges under a tough computer crime February that DNA analysis suggested that provided under a longstanding truce. — AP Last week, riot police used wooden batons lence.” laws for Facebook messages he posted. to forcibly disperse students protesting against For the students, despite the differences, Sunai said the case against them a new education law, arresting over 125 of Suu Kyi remains the model. “There is no other was a direct violation of their right to them. The crackdown in the town of Letpadan, leader,” said Lin Htet Naing said. “There is no freedom of assembly and it would likely near Yangon, was a reminder that some hard- other choice.” — Reuters stir disgruntlement with the military government. “The case is an important benchmark. Students have started to push back and are calling for a gather- ing at Thammasat University to oppose military courts.” Under martial law, which has been in place since May, gatherings of more than five people are banned. “All four of us will be sent to military court today and, if the military court accepts the case, then we will ask for bail,” Arnon told Reuters. Dozens of supporters showed up at a Bangkok police station where the four activists were interrogated, according to a Reuters reporter. Some handed the men red roses. Since taking power, the junta, known as the National Council for Peace and Order, has issued directives that have largely stifled dissent. It has said it has no immediate plans to lift martial law. Thailand has been divided for a decade by rivalry between populist for- mer Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the royalist and military establish- ment which seeks the self-exiled Thaksin as a threat to the status quo. The military seized power after BEIJING: In this July 14, 2004 photo, Xu Caihou, then member of the Secretariat of the months of at times violent protests Communist Party of China Central Committee and Director-general of General Political against a government led by Thaksin’s Department of the People’s Liberation Army, shakes hands with members of the paramili- sister, Yingluck Shinawatra. The military MANILA: Colleagues (in orange shirts) of Filipino extremist leader Mohammad Ali Tambako (not pic- tary force in Changchun in northeast China’s Jilin province. Former No. 2 military official government has promised to hold an tured) are escorted by police and military personnel after arriving at a military airbase in Manila Xu, who was under investigation for alleged massive bribe-taking, has died in a hospital election early next year. — Reuters yesterday, a day after they were arrested along with their leader Tambako in the southern island of of cancer. — AP Mindanao. — AFP NEWS TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 Assad awaits US ‘actions’ after Kerry comments

DAMASCUS: Syria’s President Bashar Al-Assad ture from office is not up for discussion, while Nashar said the statement had “blurred the warned that Washington feared that a chaotic Maamoun, an activist in the northern province said yesterday he was waiting for action from the opposition and its backers have long American position”. “America used to say that collapse of Syria’s government could usher in of Aleppo. Many in the Syrian opposition have Washington after Secretary of State John Kerry insisted he can have no role in the country’s Assad had to step down... But now, Kerry has an Islamist takeover. On the ground, activists been angered by what they call US indiffer- acknowledged talks with Damascus were nec- future after a bloody four-year civil war. In the adopted this ambiguity that keeps Assad said Kerry’s remarks came as no real surprise. ence to their plight and the international essary to end the country’s conflict. The week- interview, Kerry made no reference to Assad’s afloat in any political solution.” Kerry’s remarks “This was their real position under the table, focus on the Islamic State jihadist group end remarks by the top US envoy were quickly future, but said pressure was being applied on come after CIA head John Brennan also but now it’s out in the open,” said Abu Omar instead of regime actions. — AFP clarified when his spokeswoman said the leader to bring him to the negotiating Washington’s policy was unchanged and table. Assad had no role in Syria’s future. “That’s under way right now. And I am con- But in Damascus, local media touted Kerry’s vinced that, with the efforts of our allies and remarks as a reversal of US policy, even others, there will be increased pressure on though Assad said he was waiting to see Assad,” he said. Kerry’s spokeswoman insisted whether they would followed by action. his comments were consistent with US policy, “We are still listening to the comments and but Syrian media said they underlined the we have to wait for the actions and then we’ll “failure” of Washington’s policy towards Syria decide,” the Syrian leader told Iranian televi- and acknowledgement that Assad will not be sion in remarks carried by Syrian state media. ousted militarily. Assad has long accused Washington of “Facing a fait accompli, the American “supporting terrorism” because of its backing administration has backed down and recog- for the Syrian opposition, and repeated yester- nized the need to reposition its policy on the day that any shift in policy required an end to Syria crisis,” wrote Al-Watan, which is close to that. “We have no choice but to defend our the government. country,” he added. “Any international changes that come about within that framework are ‘Recognizing Assad’s legitimacy’ something positive, if they are honest and “This is a new recognition of President have an effect on the ground.” Assad’s legitimacy, his key role and his popu- larity, and the resulting necessity of negotiat- ‘We have to negotiate’ ing with him,” the daily said. The newspaper He was speaking after Kerry said in an suggested Kerry’s comments could pave the interview broadcast Sunday that Washington way for American participation in talks on the could negotiate with Assad. “Well, we have to conflict hosted by Russia next month. negotiate in the end,” he said, when asked by Moscow, a key Assad ally, is seeking to CBS television if he would negotiate with sponsor its own peace initiative, but there has Assad. been no indication of whether the US-backed Kerry stressed that any negotiations would Syrian opposition will attend the April 6 talks. be in the context of the Geneva communique, Kerry’s comment drew consternation from a document produced after a first round of some in the Syrian opposition. Samir Nashar, a talks between regime and opposition that member of the US-backed Syrian opposition calls for a transitional governing body with full National Coalition, said the remarks appeared executive powers, but makes no mention of to be a “test”. “They are an intentional test to FERGUSON: Charles Wade, (2ndR), co-founder of the social action group Operation Help or Hush, briefs college students about to Assad’s future. see the reactions of Syrians and of countries pick up rubbish yesterday along a section of West Florissant Avenue in Ferguson, Missouri that was hard-hit by sometimes violent Syria’s government insists Assad’s depar- that support the Syrian revolution,” he said. protests in August over the fatal shooting of unarmed African-American teenager Michael Brown by a white police officer. — AFP Kuwait borders ‘safe and secure’ Kuwait meet aims to raise billions... Continued from Page 1 ward alongside the financial package of the European Continued from Page 1 of any infiltration, the system gives a signal and detects Commission substantial pledges of new humanitarian and the direction. There are five centers at the Ritqa sector demonstrations inspired by the Arab Spring in Tunisia. development funding that reflect the scale and protracted We have modern security equipments and the situa- and each center detects about 5 km to the right and Around four million Syrians have fled abroad and 7.6 mil- nature of the crisis,” said the Council which is meeting here tion is better than the American-Mexican borders as we five to the left,” he explained. lion are displaced inside the country as Assad’s forces bat- yesterday in a statement. don’t have any cases of infiltration, while they witness The Iraqi soldiers were friendly and took photos with tle opposition rebels and extremists from the Islamic “The Council further calls on all international partners thousands each year. They only have one advantage; the journalists as well as the Kuwaiti police and military State group. to also put forward a substantial pledge in Kuwait and in the drones. But our goal is to develop our equipments officers. Iraqi Major General Jaber Wadi said that the sit- the longer term to enhance also the level and the pre- even more,” Al-Sabah stated. uation is stable. “In case of any alert, each member of EU call dictability of their respective support to the people affect- “What I see along the borders here is fantastic coop- the team transfers the information to the other teams Meanwhile, the EU Foreign Affairs Council yesterday ed by the Syria crisis in the region,” it said. It stated that the eration and coordination between two professional so we get all information immediately. There are no called on all international partners to “put forward a sub- EU and its Member States are the largest contributor to the operations of the Iraqi and Kuwaiti forces. The readiness infiltrations from any of the Kuwaiti or the Iraqi sides. stantial pledge in Kuwait” and underlined EU commitment international response to the Syria crisis, having mobilized is very good here,” commented Major General Scott We are in systematic communication,” he added. to substantial pledges. so far more than 3.2 billion euro for relief and recovery Williams from the US embassy. Brigadier General Adel Al-Hashsa, Head of Public “Ahead of the third international humanitarian pledging assistance to those affected by the conflict inside Syria and The site is equipped with a mobile monitoring and Relations and Moral Guidance at the Ministry of Interior conference for Syria in Kuwait on 31 March, the Council refugees and host communities in neighboring Lebanon, observing patrol. “This system can detect any object in a said that the ministry aims to always provide a picture reiterates the commitment by Member States to put for- Jordan, Iraq and Turkey. — Agencies distance up to 20 km. It works on varied temperatures of the security situation of the borders and to see the during day and night, and it can change colors as well,” modern developed equipments. “The situation is com- noted Mohammed Al-Qalaf, a non-commissioned offi- pletely safe so people should not have any worries. We Qatar Airways boss says Delta flying ‘crap’... cer. General Faisal Al-Sibei demonstrated the electronic have great cooperation from the Iraqi side which simpli- security system with the night camera screen. “In case fies our work,” he pointed out. Continued from Page 1 subsidies to Gulf carriers. The French transport minister, Alain Vidalies, said the Gulf airlines were benefitting from Minister resigns after accusing... “The issue is that they cannot stand the progress the “unfair competitive practices”. Gulf carriers are making.” Baker was responding to claims Baker’s attack yesterday though was not merely limited made earlier this month by three US airlines Delta, to discussions over competition. Continued from Page 1 Works portfolio. He was grilled at least twice on several American and United-that Qatar, along with Etihad Airways He also defended Qatar Airway’s record when it comes allegations including scrapping contracts to favor certain and Emirates, received $42 billion in “unfair” subsidies to to CO2 emissions and unflatteringly compared Delta’s air- Ibrahim issued a statement late Sunday night in which people. He denied the allegations and defended himself wrest business away from competitors. The US carriers craft to those of his company when asked about aviation he reiterated that he will continue to fight against corrup- well. In another development, head of the public funds issued a 55-page report claiming this has allowed the Gulf pollution. “I am delighted that Richard Anderson of Delta is tion. Commenting on his resignation, liberal MP Rakan Al- protection committee MP Abdullah Al-Turaiji said yester- airlines to wrest market share from the American airlines. not here. First of all, we don’t fly crap airplanes that are 35 Nasef said the result is a victory for corruption forces. day the panel discussed with the Legal and Fatwa These “multi-billion dollar subsidies” had distorted the mar- years old. The Qatar Airways average fleet (age) is only four Department, the government’s legal department, the ketplace, “to the severe detriment of US employment,” the years and one month,” said Baker. Heavy blow scrapping of the Dow Chemical venture that led to the American carriers claimed. “We have ultra-modern airplanes. We have invested, my MP Abdulhameed Dashti, who vowed to grill the minis- payment of the huge $2.2 billion penalty. They called on Washington to raise the issue with the country has invested, huge amounts to make sure we are ter, welcomed the resignation saying it will deal a heavy Turaiji said that it is clear that the government is not seri- UAE and Qatari governments and urged changes to bilat- the lowest CO2 contributor in the aviation industry.” blow to some influential quarters who benefited from the ous in finding who decided to scrap the multi-billion-dollar eral commercial aviation agreements with them. And he was also damning of those who criticized the presence of the minister. MP Awdah Al-Awdah, who on joint venture, adding that more meetings will be held next The UAE, where Etihad and Emirates are based, angrily aviation industry’s record on environmental pollution. Sunday promised to grill the minister, said yesterday that he week to discuss a report by the Audit Bureau and another by denied the claims. UAE Economy Minister Sultan al- “People who make lots of noise about CO2, people who will still file the grilling against the new minister because of a government probe committee. MP Hamdan Al-Azemi Mansouri was quoted as calling them “false and unaccept- make so much noise about greenhouse gases that are the validity of the issues. meanwhile said he will submit proposals to amend the elec- able” by the Emarat Al-Youm newspaper. However, emitted from airplane engines, don’t realize that they are Ibrahim, a long-serving bureaucrat in the Electricity and toral law to allow voters to elect up to four candidates rather European carriers have also joined the argument. constantly travelling by airplane, so they should start Water Minister since 1979, was appointed in the cabinet than one in the current law in a bid to end the political stale- Last week, French and German transport ministers walking or going on horseback if they really mean what for the first time in July 2012. He was later given the Public mate in the country. He provided no further details. called on the European Commission to tackle the issue of they say.” — AFP TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 ANALYSIS

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Focus Ferguson flooded with record requests after Brown shooting

By Jim Salter and David Al Lieb

erguson officials were inundated with thousands of open-records requests from media outlets and Fthe public following the fatal shooting of Michael Brown by a police officer. In response, the St Louis suburb sought payments of thousands of dollars before even beginning to fulfill some of those requests, and Ferguson’s city attorney has defended that decision. Some media outlets complained to the Missouri attorney general that Ferguson was violating the state’s Sunshine Law, which is intended to ensure public access to records at a reasonable cost. The situation highlights the challenges local govern- ments can face when they suddenly become the focus of intense public interest. “I’m sure being in this kind of a spotlight can seem overwhelming to them,” said Jean Maneke, a Kansas City attorney who specializes in Yemen bleeds in Saudi-Iran proxy war Sunshine Law issues. But she added: “The public has a right to ask questions about how its government works, and it’s in Ferguson’s best interest to be as transparent By Taieb Mahjoub Aden who back disintegration or civil war the Huthis are likely to seek closer ties Saudi switch as it can.” are responsible for the consequences,” with countries like Iran,” she said. Fearing the rise of extremist Sunni Brown, an unarmed black 18-year-old, was shot by orn between a north controlled by Iran’s deputy foreign minister Hossein This Tehran-Riyadh struggle is “both Islamists, especially the Muslim Darren Wilson, who is white, during an Aug 9 con- Shiite rebels and a south dominated Amir Abdollahian said last week. He complicating and amplifying conflict in Brotherhood, Riyadh stopped backing frontation. A St Louis County grand jury and the US Tby the embattled president’s allies, charged that Hadi, who once he reached Yemen,” she said. Saudi Arabia fears that Yemen’s Al-Islah (Reform) party, thus giv- Justice Department both declined to charge Wilson, Yemen is mired in a proxy war between Aden retracted a resignation tendered the Huthis, who swept down from the ing the Huthis the upper hand, according though a separate federal report found evidence of Iran and Saudi Arabia, analysts say. The under duress in Sanaa, “would have done north and expanded the area they control to Lina Khatib, director of the Carnegie racial profiling and other problems in Ferguson’s police struggle threatens to push the impover- better to stay in Sanaa and keep to his res- to the shores of the Red Sea, now have Middle East Centre. “At one point Saudi department and court system. The shooting spurred an ished Arabian Peninsula state further Arabia favored a Huthi domination influx of open-record requests seeking information on towards the abyss as the Sunni-Shiite sec- (along the border) instead of the Muslim Brown and Wilson. Concerns about how the mostly tarian divide grows wider. Brotherhood. Its role in Yemen then white police force interacted with a town where two- Amid the chaos, Al-Qaeda militants are diminished, encouraging the Huthis to thirds of the 21,000 residents are black sparked other closing ranks with tribes of fellow Sunni advance” south and seize large amounts requests. Still more concerned the often tense relation- Muslims to counter the expansion of the of territory within weeks, she said. ship between protesters and police. The requests Shiite Huthi rebels. In an unprecedented The Huthi-run Saba news agency sought crime investigation reports, emails and other show of force, the Iran-backed Huthis, reported on Thursday that Iran will pro- internal documents. They came from media, bloggers, who overran the capital Sanaa unopposed vide Yemen with crude oil for one year, civil rights groups, legal defense organizations and in September, last week staged military and also establish a 165-megawatt pow- individuals. exercises near the border with Sunni- er plant. The agreement was made dur- Ferguson City Attorney Stephanie Karr didn’t have an heavyweight Saudi Arabia. ing a Huthi visit to the Islamic republic exact count, but noted that by October, she had collect- “In the face of Iran’s Shiite expansion- after an Iranian commercial flight landed ed about 3,000 pages of open-records requests. For a ism, Sunni solidarity is building, led by in Sanaa on March 1 — the first in many small town unaccustomed to such volume - Karr said Saudi Arabia,” one diplomat who requested years and the fruit of an aviation accord Ferguson rarely received more than a couple of requests anonymity told AFP. The kingdom to the with Tehran. a month before the shooting - it was overwhelming. north has always played a prominent role The Huthis insist that Iran does not “I went for about seven weeks without any time off,” in Yemeni politics. It hosted negotiations meddle in Yemeni affairs. “We’ve said it said Karr, adding that her overtime was unpaid. that helped end a year of deadly nation- clearly: we reject all interference in our “Sometimes I would work from morning until midnight. wide protests and led to a deal that eased internal affairs, whether from Saudi I worked Saturdays and Sundays. I was working on out president Ali Abdullah Saleh in 2012. Arabia, Iran or the United States,” Huthi Ferguson all the time, and a big chunk of that was And following a request by President spokesman Mohammed Abdulsalam Sunshine Law requests.” Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, Riyadh is again said. He accused Saudi Arabia of seeking poised to broker talks aimed at ending to “create chaos” in Yemen. “The risk of Karr and the city clerk were responsible for answer- SANAA: Yemeni Prime Minister Khalid Bahah (center) is greeted by support- Yemen’s latest political impasse. When civil war or partition in Yemen” is ing the requests, with some help from a law assistant ers outside his house in Sanaa yesterday after Shiite Huthi militia agreed to Hadi fled Huthi-imposed house arrest in increasingly raised in political circles, and an intern. free him and all his cabinet ministers after nearly two months of house Sanaa in February and resurfaced in Aden, Khatib said. Mohammad Sadeh Sadqian, In some cases, the city sought down payments of arrest. —AFP Saudi Arabia was the first country to trans- head of the Centre for Arab Studies in $2,000 from media organizations before it would begin fer its embassy there, in an open display of ignation letter and not lead the country their sights set on the strategic Bab Al- Tehran, warned that the Saudi-Iran processing requests. Karr said those were rare cases in support for the beleaguered leader. into crisis”. Mandab strait. struggle for influence, already clear in which the city would have to hire an information tech- April Longley Alley, Yemen specialist at This would give Iran proxy control over Iraq and Syria, could have consequences nology consulting firm to retrieve emails at a cost of Tehran warning the International Crisis Group, argues that the key waterway to and from the Suez elsewhere. $135 an hour and a $500 base fee. She said one request Tehran has openly denounced moves Tehran has received a “huge political Canal, adding to its already strong pres- The struggle “could engulf other would have required the retrieval of 50,000 emails. to make the southern port Yemen’s tem- return for very little investment”. “As Saudi ence in the Gulf’s Strait of Hormuz countries” if Riyadh and Tehran “do not “There is no reason for the taxpayers of the city to porary capital. “Sanaa is the official and Arabia hardens its stance against the through which much of the world’s oil sit around one table and discuss openly bear this financial burden,” Karr said in an email. historical capital of Yemen and those in Huthis and seeks to roll back their gains, passes. all points of dispute,” he said. —AFP The Associated Press, CNN, St Louis Public Radio and the Radio Television Digital News Association all filed complaints with the office of Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster, asserting that the fees violated the state Pope’s zero tolerance faces test in Chile Sunshine Law. Although Missouri law limits copying charges to the average hourly pay of clerical staff, public entities can charge their “actual cost” for research time By Eva Vergara along with some 30 priests from the diocese and ly six decades before allegations came to light in Speaking to the AP, Gomez said he was told and any extraordinary computer programming that’s 51 of Chile’s 120 members of Parliament, sent let- April 2010, when a news investigation into the by Hoelzzel: “As long as Juan Barros is there, there necessary. uan Carlos Cruz recalls that he and another ters to Francis in February urging him to rescind abuse was broadcast on state television. Two is no doubt that this will happen again.” During Koster’s office hasn’t determined whether Ferguson’s teen boy would lie down on the priest’s bed, the appointment, which was announced in months later, the archbishop of Santiago, Karadima’s criminal trial, Barros confirmed that charges are reasonable, but “the fact is the law allows Jone resting his head at the man’s shoulder, January and is set to take effect on March 21. Cardinal Francisco Javier Errazuriz, forwarded the Hoelzzel, who has since died, had worked in the you to charge actual costs, and sometimes those costs another sitting near his feet. The priest would kiss They have not heard back and Vatican allegations to the Vatican amid an eruption of archbishop’s office. Regarding the letter, court are more than you might expect,” said Patricia Churchill, the boys and grope them, he said, all while the spokesman the Rev. Federico Lombardi declined abuse cases globally. documents quote Barros as saying he had “no chief counsel in the office’s governmental affairs divi- Rev. Juan Barros watched. “Barros was there, and to comment on the matter. Numerous attempts Victims say allegations against Karadima were knowledge” of its existence, adding “I neither sion. he saw it all,” Cruz, now a 51-year-old journalist, to reach Barros were not successful; nor has he reported earlier, but were ignored by the cardi- deny it nor affirm it.” Karr defended the city’s Sunshine Law efforts, noting told The Associated Press. Barros has been responded to the victims’ accusations or the out- nal. Errazuriz, who is one of nine cardinals on Barros is one of four bishops who were men- that it waived copying fees for tens of thousands of tapped by Pope Francis to become bishop of a cry over his appointment. Pope Francis’ key advisory panel, has acknowl- tored by Karadima and defended him from the records in the first few weeks after the shooting. southern Chilean diocese this month, provoking The Rev Peter Kleigel, deputy pastor of the edged in court testimony that he failed to act on accusations. Cruz has said that during the time he At some point, Karr started noticing similar wording an unprecedented outcry by abuse victims and Sacred Heart parish in Osorno, is among those several abuse allegations because he believed was abused, Karadima and Barros behaved inti- in many of the requests and discovered an Aug. 26 Catholic faithful who contend he covered up sex- vocally opposing Barros’ arrival. “We’re convinced them to be untrue. Karadima, who lives in isola- mately with one another in his presence. tweet calling for volunteers to flood Ferguson with ual abuse committed by his mentor and superior, that this appointment is not correct because, fol- tion at a nun’s convent, is barred from having “I saw Karadima and Juan Barros kissing and open-record requests. She responded to all of those the Rev. Fernando Karadima, in the 1980s and lowing canon law, a bishop must be well-regard- contact with anyone outside of his own family. touching each other. The groping generally came requests. “They wanted to cause trouble, interrupt our ‘90s. A Vatican investigation found Karadima ed,” he told the AP. “We need a bishop who’s cred- Criminal charges against Karadima were dis- from Karadima touching Barros’ genitals,” Cruz operation from really important functions,” she said. guilty in 2011 and sentenced the now 84-yearold ible.” missed in 2011 by Judge Jessica Gonzalez said in a January letter to Monsignor Ivo Scapolo, “They were turning this around and completely pervert- priest to a cloistered life of “penitence and prayer” Such complaints come even as Francis said because the statute of limitations had expired. the papal nuncio in Chile. Cruz provided a copy ing the entire purpose of the Sunshine Law.” —AP for what is Chile’s highest-profile case of abuse by this month that a minster needs not only God’s However, Gonzalez said that based on her inter- of the letter to the AP. a priest. blessing, but the blessing of “his people” to do his views of Cruz and other victims during her year- Despite Francis’ pledge to have no tolerance Barros has declined to comment publicly on work. long investigation, she determined their accusa- for abuse by priests, James Hamilton, another vic- allegations against him. Now bishop for Chile’s tions were truthful and dated “at least as far back tim of Karadima’s, said the appointment demon- All articles appearing on these armed forces, he has said he learned of Under watchful eyes as 1962.” strates to him that the church “had not changed.” Karadima’s abuse through a 2010 news report he The controversy is being watched by victims, Victims say they were between ages 14 and Hamilton, now a 49-year-old doctor, said Barros pages are the personal opinion of saw on television, according to court records. advocacy groups and others as a test of whether 17 when they first were abused by Karadima. A enjoyed watching Karadima commit the abuse. the writers. Kuwait Times takes no While not directly accused of abuse, Barros is Francis will meet their demands to hold bishops letter detailing abuse allegations against “I saw how Barros watched it all,” he said. Since responsibility for views expressed said by at least three victims to have witnessed accountable for having ignored or covered up Karadima was sent by some victims to Cardinal 2004, Barros has been bishop for Chile’s military, the sexual molestation at the Sacred Heart of wrongdoing by priests. Anne Barrett Doyle from Francisco Fresno in 1982. But authors of the letter an appointment made by Pope John Paul II. therein. Kuwait Times invites read- Jesus church, part of the El Bosque parish that BishopAccountability.org, an online resource accuse Barros, who then was the cardinal’s pri- Previously, he was assistant bishop in the port ers to voice their opinions. Please serves an affluent neighborhood of Santiago. about abusive priests vate secretary, of intercepting it and destroying it. city of Valparaiso and bishop of the northern city send submissions via email to: opin- That history has parishioners, clergy and law- and complicit bishops, called the appoint- Francisco Gomez, 52, a publicist who says he was of Iquique. makers in this predominantly Catholic country ment “bafflingly inconsistent” with Francis’ prom- molested by Karadima, told the AP that he signed No representatives of his former dioceses [email protected] or via snail protesting the pope’s decision to appoint Barros, ise to root out abuse. the letter drafted by two other victims. A friend of have spoken out in his defense. On Saturday, mail to PO Box 1301 Safat, Kuwait. 58, to become spiritual leader over the diocese in “The pope should have suspended and inves- his who worked with Fresno, Juan Hoelzzel, told Chile’s papal nuncio published a letter urging The editor reserves the right to edit Osorno, about 580 miles (930 kilometers) south tigated Barros, not given him another diocese to Gomez that Barros ripped it up after reading it - parishioners in Osorno to welcome Barros and any submission as necessary. of Santiago. run,” Barrett Doyle said in an email to the AP. an account that was recorded in testimony dur- “prepare, by way of prayer and good works, for More than 1,300 church members in Osorno, Karadima led the parish of El Bosque for near- ing the criminal investigation. the beginning of his pastoral governance.” —AP TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 SPORTS

Manor to pay for failure Serie B match-fixing row Spieth triumph at Valspar LONDON: Manor Marussia had no intention of competing in Formula MILAN: A team official sparked a match-fixing row in Italy’s PALM HARBOR: American Jordan Spieth won the Valspar Championship in dramatic fash- One’s Australian season-opener and will pay a price for their failure to race, Serie B after dropping his notes and leaving them on the ion on Sunday, triumphing in a three-way playoff, with a superb 28-foot birdie putt on the the sport’s commercial supremo Bernie Ecclestone indicated yesterday. team bench, where they were found by officials of the other third playoff hole. Spieth outlasted fellow Americans Patrick Reed and Sean O’Hair at the The struggling team, who emerged from the remains of the failed club. Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, Florida, after all three had finished 10 under-par for the Marussia outfit after going into administration and missing the last three Virtus Entella scrambled a 3-3 draw at Frosinone in tournament. The victory is the second of the 21-year-old Spieth’s career on the PGA Tour races of 2014, failed to turn a wheel on the track in Melbourne. They Saturday’s game after equalising with a controversial penal- following his win at the John Deer Classic in July 2013 and will move him to sixth in the missed all three practice sessions and Saturday qualifying, blaming soft- ty in stoppage time. world rankings. With no difference between the trio on the 18th and 16th holes, the con- ware problems, which ruled them out of the race. Frosinone president Maurizio Stirpe said his club had test went to the par-three 17th, where Reed, who found the bunker, and O’Hair left them- However, they escaped sanction with stewards deciding to take no found a note on the Vintus bench on which the words “we selves with par-putts before Spieth drained his birdie putt. action after an enquiry decided the team had made “all reason- score with a penalty” had been scribbled, which was inter- “Putts like that are luck, right?” said Spieth. “If that doesn’t hit the hole, it’s able endeavours” to get the cars ready. preted as a forecast of what was going to happen and raised four feet past. I guess it was just my day.” It was a cruel ending for Reed and “We should have never ever, ever allowed Manor to do suspicions of match manipulation. O’Hair who both had played some excellent golf. Reed’s bogey free, five- what they’ve done. It’s our fault. I predicted this would “If the story is confirmed, would cast more shadows on under par round of 66, featured some outstanding play around the green. happen,” Ecclestone told Reuters. the entire football system,” he told Italian media. However, He kept himself in the playoff fight despite finding a bunker on the 18th and “They had no intention of racing in Australia. Zero. Entella angrily denied the suggestion. “It is not a prediction then deep rough at the back of the green on the 16th. O’Hair was close to glory on the second playoff hole where he saw a birdie putt, which would They couldn’t have raced if someone had gone there with of the end of the game as feared by some media but rather have won him his first PGA Tour event since 2011, lip out. a machine gun and put it to their head. just a report on the match,” team manager Maurizio Podesta Rookie of the Year in 2005, O’Hair has had a career in free fall as told the club’s website. Podesta said he always wrote a “It was impossible. So they had no intention. We’ll he has slumped to 401st in the world rankings, but the 32-year- detailed report on the team’s games, however, he ran out of have to see now. And they will have to pay their old’s showing this week indicated he could have finally found way to get there and get out of there,” he space near the end and noted down the penalty on a sec- the confidence to get himself back on track.—Reuters added.—Reuters ond sheet of paper.—Reuters Rangers see off Panthers

NEW YORK: Cam Talbot made 38 saves as career shutout. the streaking New York Rangers beat the Steen and Oshie each had a goal and an Florida Panthers 2-1 on Sunday for their assist, and teammate Alex Pietrangelo had 14th victory in 17 games. two assists. St. Louis killed all six Stars pow- New York has an NHL-best 95 points and er plays. The Blues’ penalty killers have has earned at least one point in 17 of 18 been successful in 29 of 30 chances over games. James Sheppard and Matt Hunwick the last nine games. scored for the Rangers. The Panthers, who began the day six CAPITALS 2, BRUINS 0 points out of a playoff spot, lost in regula- Braden Holtby made 32 saves for his tion for the first time in five games. eighth shutout of the season and Nicklas Brandon Pirri scored his 15th goal, and Dan Backstrom became Washington’s career Ellis made 32 saves. assists leader as the Capitals cooled the surging Boston Bruins. HURRICANES 3, BLUE JACKETS 2 Holtby rebounded from being pulled Brad Malone’s goal capped a big second during the second period of Friday night’s period for Carolina and helped the loss after allowing four goals on 22 shots. Hurricanes end a three-game losing streak Washington moved two points ahead of with a victory against Columbus. Boston for the first Eastern Conference Justin Faulk and Ron Hainsey also wild-card spot. Backstrom assisted on goals scored for the Hurricanes. Andrej Nestrasil by John Carlson and Nate Schmidt, moving had two assists, and Anton Khudobin made past Michal Pivonka and Alex Ovechkin 22 saves. (418 each) on the Capitals’ assists list with Nick Foligno and Scott Hartnell had the 420. The Bruins had won five straight, and goals for Columbus, which had won three were 7-0-1 in their last eight. straight. Sergei Bobrovsky stopped 24 shots. SENATORS 2, FLYERS 1 Bobby Ryan scored the shootout winner RED WINGS 5, PENGUINS 1 and Andrew Hammond stopped 27 shots, Teemu Pulkkinen scored twice for the lifting Ottawa past Philadelphia. Jean- first multigoal game of his career as the Gabriel Pageau scored the lone goal in reg- Detroit Red Wings thrashed the Pittsburgh ulation for the Senators, who have won Penguins. their last three games as they make a play- Marek Zidlicky added a goal and two off push. assists for the Red Wings. Henrik Zetterberg Hammond, making his third straight and Riley Sheahan also scored for Detroit. start, has allowed just 16 goals in his first 11 Petr Mrazek made 42 saves for his first win games. Jakub Voracek scored for the Flyers, in over a month. and Ray Emery made 27 saves in his first Marc-Andre Fleury stopped just 12 of appearance since Feb. 19. the 16 shots before being pulled in the sec- ond period as the Penguins lost their sec- DUCKS 4, PREDATORS 2 ond straight. David Perron scored his 17th, Kyle Palmieri scored the tying goal and OKLAHOMA CITY: Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) shoots in front of Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah (right) in the fourth quarter of an and Sidney Crosby picked up an assist after Nate Thompson put the Ducks ahead 35 NBA basketball game. —AP missing Saturday’s loss to Boston due to an seconds later, leading Anaheim back from a illness. two-goal deficit with a four-goal third peri- od. Ryan Getzlaf scored early in the third BLUES 3, STARS 0 and Cam Fowler added a power-play goal Thunder stop Bulls charge Jake Allen made 28 saves for his fourth for the Ducks. John Gibson made 25 saves shutout this season, and Vladimir Tarasenko as Anaheim won its second straight after a broke a scoreless tie with a goal in the third three-game skid, staying even with the OKLAHOMA CITY: Russell Westbrook had 36 but missed a 5-foot fadeaway jumper at the season-ending ruptured Achilles tendon. DeMar period in St. Louis’ win over Dallas. Rangers atop the overall NHL standings. points, 11 rebounds and six assists as the buzzer. Blake Griffin had 11 points, 11 rebounds DeRozan scored 22 points, and Jonas The Blues added a power-play goal by Roman Josi and Taylor Beck scored, and Oklahoma City Thunder held off the Chicago and eight assists in 40 minutes in his return to Valanciunas had 14 for Toronto. The Raptors lost Alexander Steen and an empty-netter by Pekka Rinne stopped 24 shots in Nashville’s Bulls 109-100 on Sunday. the lineup after surgery to remove a staph infec- for the 10th time in 12 games. T.J. Oshie in the final 3:15. It was Allen’s fifth eighth loss in 10 games. —AP Enes Kanter added 18 points and 18 tion in his right elbow. rebounds and fellow center Steven Adams had SUNS 102, KNICKS 89 14 points and 11 rebounds for the Thunder. NUGGETS 118, PELICANS 111 Eric Bledsoe fell a rebound short of a triple- NHL results/standings Westbrook’s final assist came on the game- Will Barton scored 25 points, including the double and Phoenix overcame a sluggish first turning play. With the Thunder up 99-95 in the game-leveling 3-pointer late in the first over- half to beat New York. Bledsoe finished with 21 Detroit 5, Pittsburgh 1; NY Rangers 2, Florida 1; Carolina 3, Columbus 2; St. Louis 3, Dallas 0; Ottawa 2, final minute, he held the ball until near the end time, as undermanned Denver beat New Orleans points, 11 assists and nine rebounds. Marcus Philadelphia 1 (SO); Washington 2, Boston 0; Anaheim 4, Nashville 2. of the shot clock, then passed to Anthony for its fourth straight victory. Morris added 20 points for the Suns, who were Morrow, who hit a 3-pointer. Nikola Mirotic Kenneth Faried had 20 points and 10 without starters Brandon Knight and Alex Len Western Conference Tampa Bay 42 21 7 226 182 91 scored 27 points and Pau Gasol added 20 for rebounds for Denver. Danilo Gallinari added 17 because of sprained ankles. Brandan Wright, Pacific Division Detroit 38 19 11 200 183 87 Chicago. Oklahoma City won for the 16th time in points, including a 3 that gave the Nuggets a starting in place of Len, scored a season-high 18 W L OTL GF GA PTS Boston 36 23 10 184 175 82 its last 18 home games. 114-109 lead with 1:30 left in the second over- and matched his season best with 11 rebounds. Anaheim 44 20 7 208 195 95 Ottawa 33 24 11 194 180 77 time. Ty Lawson added 19 points and Jameer Andre Bargnani and Alexey Shved scored 18 Vancouver 39 25 4 193 184 82 Florida 31 24 14 170 192 76 Nelson 18 for Denver, which won even as coach points apiece for New York. Calgary 38 26 5 205 181 81 CAVALIERS 123, MAGIC 108 Toronto 27 37 6 187 222 60 Los Angeles 33 22 13 185 172 79 Kyrie Irving scored 33 points, and J.R. Smith Melvin Hunt chose to rest three regulars - Wilson San Jose 34 27 8 193 193 76 Buffalo 19 43 6 129 230 44 had 25 as Cleveland rolled past Orlando. LeBron Chandler, Randy Foye and Darrell Arthur - so the SPURS 123, TIMBERWOLVES 97 Arizona 21 40 8 145 230 50 Metropolitan Division James finished with 21 points, 13 assists and team could get a better look at some younger San Antonio lost Manu Ginobili to a sprained Edmonton 18 39 12 160 238 48 NY Rangers 44 17 7 207 158 95 eight rebounds to help the Cavaliers win their players. Anthony Davis had 36 points, 14 right ankle in the third quarter of its victory over Central Division NY Islanders 43 24 4 221 199 90 fourth straight and sixth in seven games. rebounds, nine blocks and a career-high seven Minnesota. Ginobili was injured when he went St. Louis 44 20 5 214 170 93 Pittsburgh 39 20 10 196 173 88 Cleveland went 18 for 35 from 3-point range. assists for New Orleans. up for a one-handed rebound and landed on the Nashville 43 21 7 203 173 93 Washington 37 23 10 205 172 84 Irving was 5 for 6 from beyond the arc. Victor side of Gorgui Dieng’s left foot with 43 seconds Chicago 41 21 6 198 157 88 Philadelphia 29 27 15 186 202 73 Oladipo led the Magic with 25 points. Orlando TRAIL BLAZERS 113, RAPTORS 97 left in the period. Minnesota 38 24 7 196 173 83 New Jersey 29 29 11 158 179 69 LaMarcus Aldridge had 24 points and 10 He remained on the court for a couple of Winnipeg 34 23 12 191 186 80 has lost four straight. Columbus 30 35 4 180 218 64 Colorado 32 26 11 184 193 75 rebounds as Portland beat Toronto for the 12th minutes, rocking on his side and holding his Dallas 32 28 10 218 229 74 Carolina 26 34 8 161 187 60 HAWKS 91, LAKERS 86 time in 13 meetings. Damian Lillard scored 23 right ankle in agony. He was helped to the back Eastern Conference Note: Overtime losses (OTL) are worth one point Dennis Schroder had 24 points and 10 assists, points, and Arron Afflalo had 14, and Nicolas by Tim Duncan and Spurs trainer Will Sevening, Atlantic Division in the standings and are not included in the loss and Al Horford scored 21 points as Atlanta beat Batum added 10 points and 12 assists to help hopping on his left foot and not putting his right Montreal 43 19 7 182 153 93 column (L). Los Angeles. Atlanta’s Kyle Korver left with a bro- the Trail Blazers open a five-game trip with their foot on the floor. Kawhi Leonard scored 15 ken nose after taking an offensive foul from Ed eighth victory in nine games. They improved to points for San Antonio. The Spurs had a season- Davis with 8:59 left in the first half. The injury 3-1 since losing starter Wesley Matthews to a high 38 assists. —AP ended a streak of 51 consecutive games with a 3-pointer by Korver, who missed both of his shots from behind the arc. NBA results/standings Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer rested starters Jeff Teague, DeMarre Carroll and Paul Millsap and inserted Schroder at the point, Pero Oklahoma City 109, Chicago 100; Houston 100, LA Clippers 98; Denver 118, New Orleans 111 (OT); Cleveland 123, Antic at small forward and former Laker Kent Orlando 108; San Antonio 123, Minnesota 97; Portland 113, Toronto 97; Phoenix 102, NY Knicks 89; Atlanta 91, LA Lakers 86. Bazemore at power forward. Schroder, the 17th overall pick in the 2013 draft, made his seventh Eastern Conference Western Conference start in 113 NBA games and was 7 for 16 from Atlantic Division Northwest Division the field in his best game as a pro. W L PCT GB Portland 44 20 .688 - Atlanta (52-14) moved within a half-game of Toronto 39 27 .591 - Oklahoma City 37 29 .561 8 idle Golden State for the NBA’s best record with Boston 29 36 .446 9.5 Utah 29 36 .446 15.5 16 games left - including a showdown with the Brooklyn 26 38 .406 12 Denver 26 41 .388 19.5 Warriors on Wednesday night at Oakland. Philadelphia 15 51 .227 24 Minnesota 14 51 .215 30.5 Reserves Carlos Boozer and Ryan Kelly each NY Knicks 13 53 .197 26 Pacific Division Central Division scored 13 points for the Lakers. Golden State 52 13 .800 - Cleveland 43 25 .632 - LA Clippers 42 25 .627 11 Chicago 40 28 .588 3 ROCKETS 100, CLIPPERS 98 Phoenix 35 33 .515 18.5 Milwaukee 34 32 .515 8 Sacramento 22 43 .338 30 James Harden scored 34 points, and Terrence Indiana 30 35 .462 11.5 Jones added 16 points and 12 rebounds in Detroit 23 43 .348 19 LA Lakers 17 48 .262 35 Houston’s victory over Los Angeles. Southeast Division Southwest Division Trevor Ariza had 19 points and nine Atlanta 52 14 .788 - Memphis 46 20 .697 - rebounds, helping Houston move within two Washington 38 28 .576 14 Houston 44 22 .667 2 games of idle Memphis for the Southwest San Antonio 41 24 .631 4.5 NEW YORK: Rangers goaltender Mackenzie Skapski (70) makes a save near Rangers Charlotte 29 35 .453 22 Division lead. Dallas 42 25 .627 4.5 defenseman Dan Boyle (22) and Buffalo Sabres center Cody Hodgson (19) during the Miami 29 36 .446 22.5 Chris Paul scored 23 points for the Clippers, Orlando 21 47 .309 32 New Orleans 36 30 .545 10 first period of an NHL hockey game. —AP TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015

Outsiders determined to stay in World Cup club

SYDNEY: Afghanistan coach Andy Moles has victories over both the West Indies and between World Cups. side to Sri Lanka who in the course of a 21- question is what do you want the World Cup no doubts over the thorny issue of the 2019 Zimbabwe were no longer seen as shocks. In True there were, as was the case in 2011, year span from their appearance as a non-Test to be? Do you want it to be a jamboree of World Cup and the controversial plan to cut the end they were only denied a quarter-final some lopsided ‘blow-outs’. But they didn’t just nation at the inaugural World Cup in 1975 world cricket or the pinnacle of the one-day the number of teams from 14 to just 10. place on net run-rate, with the West Indies involve the Associates with England, who in went to champions by the time of the 1996 game?” Richard Done, the high performance “It’s called the World Cup, and the secret is scraping through at their expense. common with the non-Test quartet failed to edition. The likes of Afghanistan pacemen manager of the ICC, said he had been encour- in the name,” he said. After Ireland became the Even in Sunday’s seven-wicket defeat by qualify for the last eight, on the receiving end Hamid Hassan and Shapoor Zadran, UAE bats- aged with the competitive performance of the last of the four non-Test or Associate nations Pakistan there was a moment for Ireland to of thumping defeats by Australia, New man Shaiman Anwar and Scotland seamer Associate teams. taking part at the World Cup to bow out of the savour with captain William Porterfield making Zealand and Sri Lanka. Josh Davey, whose 15 wickets at this World “It is encouraging to see the competitive tournament on Sunday, there were plenty of a fine hundred. “I’d love to think it was not our Cup have so far only been bettered by performances of the associate members in the supporters for Moles’s opinion. last World Cup game,” said Porterfield. “I think ASTONISHING RISE Australia’s Mitchell Starc, all made a name for World Cup and that the ICC High Performance Indeed there has been a chorus of criticism, something has to be done if they (the ICC) By contrast, the Scots-who didn’t win a themselves. Programme tours have been an important including major names in the sport such as want to grow the game. “If you cut us out of match all tournament-made New Zealand “Where can they test themselves if they part in their preparation,” Done told AFP. Done Sachin Tendulkar and Steve Waugh, regarding the World Cup then what’s the point really for sweat when the Black Caps lost seven wickets can’t test themselves against the best?,” said said the ICC had chalked out a comprehensive plans by the International Cricket Council to us to keep going.” chasing a victory target of 143. Moles. “There’s a certain mystique about the programme for the qualifiers to help them reduce the number of teams taking part. All four Associates taking part at this World Meanwhile Afghanistan’s astonishing rise associate nations and I think it would be compete with the full members. Ireland, long the leading Associate member of Cup-Afghanistan, Ireland, Scotland and the saw them mark their maiden World Cup with a something that would be lost if they weren’t Last October, Afghanistan and UAE were the ICC, beat Test teams for the third World United Arab Emirates-did enough to show thrilling one-wicket win over Scotland. given the opportunity to do it again.” given an opportunity to play some domestic Cup in a row. how much better they might yet be with more Moles, a former opening batsman with In an interview with AFP last month, ICC teams in Australia while Scotland and Ireland It says much about Irish cricket that their games against top-class opposition in English county Warwickshire, compared his chief executive David Richardson said: “The were given base camps in New Zealand. —AFP Starc difference in Aussies campaign

MELBOURNE: Publicly labelled “soft” by former test bowler Shane Warne only a few months ago, paceman Mitchell Starc has come of age at the cricket World Cup and could prove key to Australia’s hopes of winning a fifth trophy. The 25-year-old left-armer currently leads the wickets tally at the tournament with 16 scalps at the end of the pool phase, one ahead of a clutch of bowlers with 15, but with an eye-popping average of 8.50. Once known as the “lesser Mitchell”, Starc has put Australia’s most feared strike bowler Mitchell Johnson firmly in the shade, the fellow left-armer taking a modest nine wickets at an average of 22.66. “The ball’s coming out nicely. I can’t com- plain. It’s coming out consistently well, but more importantly we’re winning games,” Starc said in comments published by The Australian newspa- per. “That’s all that matters. “I’ve been working on different plans, whether that be in training or in a game, and it’s nice to see them coming off.” Starc’s form at cricket’s global showpiece has elevated him to the most lethal wicket-taker in the one-day game. The Adelaide Oval has one of Australia’s slow- est pitches, particularly since its redevelopment as a venue for Australian Rules football matches, but Starc’s pace, bounce and variation could prove a handful for Pakistan when the teams clash in the quarter-finals on Friday. Starc has set the tone for Australia’s cam- paign, capturing the team’s first World Cup wick- et in the opener against England when a flus- tered Moeen Ali tried to pull a short ball only to be beaten for pace and caught at mid-on. He all but bowled out New Zealand with a six-wicket haul that dragged his team into the match after they were skittled for 151 in Auckland and appeared ripe for humiliation. His ability to swing the ball both ways and into right-handed batsmen has prompted com- NEW ZEALAND: India’s Mahendra Singh Dhoni plays a shot to hit the winning runs parisons with Pakistan great Wasim Akram. during the Cricket World Cup Pool B match in this file photo. —AFP SOFT EFFORT Straight-shooter George Bailey, who led Asia quartet defy convention Australia against England before making way for regular captain Michael Clarke, said Starc was ADELAIDE: Co-hosts Australia and New Mortaza said his biggest challenge was “more feared” as a ‘death bowler’ in the final Zealand may be the teams to beat, but the to check the growing excitement in the overs than either of South Africa pace duo Dale striking feature of this World Cup is Asia’s team over making the knock-out rounds Steyn and Morne Morkel. four Test nations defying conventional wis- for the first time and the prospect of play- Only a few months ago, however, Starc was dom to make the quarter-finals. ing before some 90,000 spectators at the making headlines after outspoken pundit Warne The belief that Asian cricketers struggle MCG. “Everyone is excited about the game remarked that he looked “a bit soft” when strug- HOBART: Australian cricketer Mitchell Starc appeals unsuccessfully in this file photo. —AFP on the hard, bouncy wickets Down Under but as a professional unit we must focus on gling for line and length on a baking, hot day place in tests, being picked for one match then wicket in the Sydney match-having India open- was thrown out of the window as India, Sri the task ahead ,” he said. “It’s a chance to during a test match against India in Brisbane. tossed out on a number of occasions. er Murali Vijay nicking behind-happened with Lanka, Pakistan and Bangladesh moved show the world that we are among the top For a sporting country that values toughness His 15 matches have yielded 50 wickets at a Warne behind the microphone for the host ahead from the group stages. teams.” above all qualities in elite sport, there are few- modest average of 35.44. He was dropped after broadcaster. Three more wins will see a team er criticisms more scathing than the ‘S-word’ the “soft” effort in Brisbane, but returned for Warne praised the bowler and has since jok- crowned the 2015 champions-just like SEMI-FINAL GUARANTEE and Warne was moved to clarify his comment the final test against India in Sydney and took ingly claimed credit for his brilliant form. Starc Pakistan did when the World Cup was last The India-Bangladesh match means that after a subsequent media storm. five wickets for the match. Before the test he has since let his work on the pitch do the talk- held in Australia and New Zealand in 1992 at least one Asian team will be guaranteed Competing with a bull-pen of fast bowlers said he wasn’t “losing sleep” over Warne’s criti- ing. ‘Soft’ won’t be the first word thrown — and another victory for Asia cannot be a place in the semi-finals, but Sri Lanka and for the third seamer spot behind Johnson and cism. around when Pakistan’s brain trust convene to ruled out. “There is no reason why an Asian Pakistan will also be strong contenders for Ryan Harris, Starc has struggled to cement his But in a neat piece of symmetry, his first prepare for Friday’s match. —Reuters side can’t win this time,” legendary the last four. Pakistani fast bowler Wasim Akram, who Sri Lanka, who take on the powerful but was part of the 1992 winning team, told inconsistent South Africa in Wednesday’s AFP. first quarter-final at the Sydney Cricket “They have played well and deserve to Ground, have the prolific Kumar Domingo expects S Africa go through. In a knock-out situation, past Sangakkara in their ranks. form will really not count. Everything The 37-year-old left-hander, playing depends on how you play on that day.” one-day cricket for the last time, has to peak against Sri Lanka Defending champions India bounced already hammered an unprecedented four back from a dismal tour of Australia prior to consecutive centuries and tops the batting the World Cup to record six straight wins in charts with 496 runs. SYDNEY: If South Africa do end up choking in ter-final clash with Sri Lanka. he roared. the league, which surprised many, but not With the 38-year-old Tillakaratne the latter stages of the World Cup, it will not be The 40-year-old was clearly expecting ques- “It’s been part of South African cricket for team director Ravi Shastri. Dilshan having made 395 runs with two because of any tension filtering down from their tions about South Africa’s history of crumbling quite some time, every time we get to these “I’m not one bit surprised,” the former hundreds, it promises to be an enthralling coach. under pressure in the knockout stages of tourna- events it’s going to be questioned,” he added all-rounder told the Wisden India website. contest between Sri Lanka’s in-form bats- Russell Domingo could not have presented a ments and one reporter had barely started to when the laughter had died down. “What we are looking forward to now is to men and the Proteas’ attack led by Dale more relaxed demeanour than he did in front of speak before he interjected. “Choking! It’s chok- “We’ve faced the fact that in the past we have carry on the good work. Not think too far Steyn. Coach Marvan Atapattu is confident the media yesterday, two days before their quar- ing! It’s taken you four minutes, that’s a bit slow,” let opportunities slip by us. Hopefully we’d have ahead, but keep the momentum going.” that Sri Lanka, the 1996 champions who learned from the mistakes that previous sides India’s quarter-final opponents at the iconic lost in the finals in both the last two edi- have made at events like this. Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday will tions, are equipped to deal with the pres- “And by all means we want to avoid that hap- be Bangladesh, the surprise team of the sures of a knock-out game. pening to us but at the end of the day, we just tournament who knocked England out in “Over the last few years in big tourna- want to play good cricket if the opportunity aris- the league. ment matches, I’ve seen people raise their es.” Bangladesh went through almost the game and raise the whole team,” he said. South Africa have never won a knockout entire last year without a win in Test or one- “These guys can do it again. When it comes match in six World Cups, their three trips to the day cricket, but the tactical acumen of their to pulling together and working towards a semi-finals coming when the last four was decid- Sri Lankan coach Chandika Hathurusinghe common goal, we’re among the best.” ed by round robin groups. and fast bowling adviser Heath Streak has Pakistan, described by South African They have had their fair share of bad luck too, paid dividends. coach Russell Domingo as “predictably most notably when the method of calculating Two consecutive centuries by unpredictable”, lived up to that reputation targets after overs were lost to rain robbed them Mohammad Mahmudullah and incisive fast by bouncing back from two defeats to win of the chance of a victory over England in the bowling by Rubel Hossain and young four in a row. Sydney semi-final in 1992. Taskin Ahmed led the turnaround for the And as they prepare to tackle mighty “In 1992, I was 16-years-old,” Domingo chor- Tigers, and skipper Mashrafe Mortaza Australia at the Adelaide Oval on Friday, tled when asked whether it was a motivation. promises more from his side. skipper Misbah-ul Haq was convinced his “There’s nothing we can do about what hap- “We are hungry for success and I am team can win the tournament and repeat pened in 1992, all our energy is focused on what confident we can reach new heights,” said the feat of their 1992 predecessors. “Of we need to do leading into this game.” Mortaza, whose team sent India crashing course we can win the World Cup,” Misbah Domingo said he had been trying to get the from the first stage of the 2007 World Cup said after knocking Ireland out of the race. SYDNEY: South African cricketer AB de Villiers runs to take a catch during a training session at squad to focus on more recent successes when in the Caribbean. “We have the momentum.” —AFP the Sydney Cricket Ground. —AFP they were in pressure situations.—Reuters TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015

Ageless Dilshan to remain Sri Lanka’s guiding light

MUMBAI: The pressure will be on former cap- hundred-run stands between them. Johnson found out to his cost when the Sri will have to discuss with my captain and the Dilshan, also a former skipper, gave up tain Tillakaratne Dilshan to continue to play a Sangakkara’s solid batting technique is in Lankan hit him for six fours in an over. team management what my future role in the playing tests two years back to make room for pivotal role for Sri Lanka when he loses his sharp contrast to the more dashing, innova- While the 37-year-old Sangakkara leads team will be. younger players in the side and will not hesi- prolific batting partner after the World Cup. tive Dilshan. The contrasting styles only the table of run-getters at the ongoing World “If they think that I have a role to play I will tate doing it again in other formats when he Kumar Sangakkara, the second highest swelling the problems for an opposition cap- Cup with four consecutive centuries, Dilshan continue to represent my country. With my feels the time is right. run-getter in one-day internationals behind tain, who also has to contend with the left- is not too far behind with two hundreds and a present form and fitness I guess I can easily “I will do the same in the other two formats Sachin Tendulkar, will retire from the 50-over right combination when setting a field fifty and is fourth on the list. And with Mahela play for another two-three years, even till the also if I think I am not good enough to be in format after the tournament leaving a huge against them. Jayawardene also set to retire from all formats next World Cup in 2019.” At 38, Dilshan still the side,” he said. “I haven’t taken that decision hole in Sri Lanka’s batting lineup. Opening Dilshan, who is famous for his ‘Dilscoop’, a after the World Cup, Dilshan knows he will be remains one of Sri Lanka’s best fielders and is yet because two key players are retiring from batsman Dilshan and number three shot he plays by going down on one knee to the guiding light for Sri Lanka’s young bats- also a very useful off-spinner. ODI cricket and I believe my experience will Sangakkara added 210 runs against hit the bowler over the wicketkeeper’s head, men going forward. The absence of Sangakkara and be valuable to the captain and the team in the Bangladesh, 130 versus co-hosts Australia and mixes power with bat speed. “My ambition is to continue playing ODI Jayawardene in the team after the World Cup two formats. “We have problems with open- 195 against minnows Scotland and are the He can smack boundaries with minimum and T20 cricket,” Dilshan said during the early will also mean that he will be the only go-to ers. If I can help them fill that void using my second most successful pair in ODIs with 20 footwork, as Australian fast bowler Mitchell weeks of the World Cup. “After the World Cup I man for young captain Angelo Mathews. experience I will quit.”—Reuters Sri Lanka want Sangakkara to play on

SYDNEY: Kumar Sangakkara is working as hard to improve his game in his final one-day tour- nament as he did when he first broke into the Sri Lanka team a decade and a half ago, said chief selector Sanath Jayasuriya. Sangakkara’s form at the World Cup has been little short of sensational and is a big part of Sri Lanka’s run to the quarter-finals, where they will meet South Africa at the Sydney Cricket Ground tomorrow. Unsurprisingly, Jayasuriya would like him to continue beyond the current tournament, after which the 37-year-old plans to retire from the 50-over format. In Sri Lanka’s last pool match against Scotland, the elegant lefthander became the first batsman to score centuries in four succes- sive one-day internationals and secured the World Cup record for most dismissals by a wick- etkeeper. HAMILTON: NewZealand’s Tim Southee (left) and Daniel Vettori (right) leave the field “Unbelievable,” Jayasuriya told reporters at in this file photo. —AFP the SCG on Monday. “It’s one of the rarest things you can see, him playing four in a row. I’m lucky to be here to watch all four innings. “I’m very happy and what I want, as chair- NZ won’t curb man of selectors, is for him to continue his form right throughout the World Cup.” Described by Australia captain Michael aggressive game Clarke as one of, if not, the greatest ever bats- men, Sangakkara earlier in the tournament became only the second player behind Sachin WELLINGTON: New Zealand will not be freedom, and play with that and go into Tendulkar to score 14,000 ODI runs. While shelving the aggressive game that has tak- those high pressure situations and express Sangakkara has been resolute about his deci- en them through the pool stage at the our skills. sion to retire from ODIs, Jayasuriya believed he World Cup unbeaten despite the stakes “This is a one-off game and we need to still had plenty of batting left in him and was now being that much higher in the knock- play with that freedom and sort of calm hoping for a change of heart. out rounds, batsman Kane Williamson said aggression, I suppose.” “We’ve got a lot of “I would love him to keep playing. He can go yesterday. match winners and everyone’s looking for- on longer. It all depends on him,” the 1996 The co-hosts will enter Saturday’s quar- ward to this game.” World Cup winner said. “The way he’s playing is ter-final in Wellington as raging favourites New Zealand have played all of their really good. It’s confidence for the boys also to beat West Indies having notched six matches on home soil and are guaranteed and all the players are playing really well too. straight wins from their pool matches. a home semi-final if they can get past West “Since he came into the side in 2000 he has Led by hard-hitting skipper Brendon Indies. been working really hard, his keeping, his bat- McCullum, New Zealand’s batsmen have The Black Caps played arguably their ting and he wants to improve his game every battered bowlers the length and breadth of worst pool match in their last game against day. “That’s what he he’s doing even when he’s the country while their best seamers have Bangladesh on Friday, needing until the playing his last one-day series. He’s doing his bowled most of their overs early in penultimate over to reel in their opponents’ best all the time, he’s doing his basics right and blitzkrieg attacks to unsettle sides. 288-7 and secure a tight three-wicket win. he wants to do well in the middle.” Pundits have questioned whether the “It was nice to get a win over Bangladesh “I would love him to carry on for another few strategy is sustainable when the pressure is and chase down a big total,” Williamson years, the way he’s playing ... It’s all in his on during the knock-out stages but said. “I suppose it was in slightly scrappy hands.” Tomorrow, it is South Africa’s bowlers Williamson could see no change to their fashion, but I guess that’s also a positive for who will have the unenviable task of bringing approach. us. “We’ve played six games in pool play an end to Sangakkara’s purple patch with the “I think it is important that you are and every game has been very different, so bat. South Africa coach Russell Domingo con- relaxed and calm and play with that free- I suppose it’s nice to have all those experi- fessed they had been partly looking in hope to dom,” the Tauranga-born 24-year-old told ences going into this quarter-final match. the law of averages ahead of the quarter-final reporters in Wellington. “When you do, you “Going through the pool stages, playing in Sydney. play your best cricket. We’re looking to do some good cricket, everything starts again. “He’s in the form of his life,” Domingo said. that in this next game. “Anything in the past is quickly forgot- “He’s got four hundreds and you’ve got to think “It’s important that we look at it with the ten.”—Reuters that there’s a lower score just around the cor- AUSTRALIA: Sri Lanka batsman Kumar Sangakkara plays a shot at the Bellerive Oval ground ner.” —Reuters during the 2015 Cricket World Cup. —AFP Centuries set ton of Windies confident Mahmudullah records in World Cup finds form at perfect

ADELAIDE: The opening round of the South Africa had five, India saw four and of Gayle fitness time for B’desh World Cup witnessed 35 centuries com- the West Indies and Australia, three each. pared to just six in the entire 1975 tourna- Batsmen from Bangladesh had two WELLINGTON: West Indies believe Chris Obviously, he’s a key player for us, and his MELBOURNE: It’s been a long time coming but ment, seemingly proving once and for all (both by Mahmudullah) so did eliminated Gayle will have a major impact on fitness is key going into the quarter-final,” Mohammad Mahmudullah is finally fulfilling his prom- that one-day cricket is a batsman’s game. England, Ireland and Zimbabwe (both by Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final against said captain Jason Holder. ise as a match-winning batsman. For both him and his Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara heads the Taylor). New Zealand, Pakistan, United Arab New Zealand even if he’s only half fit. “I’m sure he’ll be up for it even if he’s not country Bangladesh, the long wait is paying off at the list of century makers, smashing four con- Emirates and Scotland all one century each. Gayle missed Sunday’s six-wicket win a hundred percent. It’s an important game perfect time. secutive hundreds to become the first bats- England’s Dennis Amiss was the first bats- over the United Arab Emirates in Napier, and he’s a big player, you know what big Mahmudullah was first picked to play for man in all one-day internationals to score man to score a World Cup hundred in the which secured the West Indies’ place in the players can do on big days. I’m sure he’ll be Bangladesh in 2007. Just 20 at the time, he was ear- four in a row. inaugural event held in England in 1975. last eight, after failing to shrug off his latest up for it even if he’s not 100 per cent.” marked as a star in the making, but it was a false dawn. The 37-year-old left-hander is in the There were just six centuries in that first back problem. In his absence, Johnson Gayle, 35 has had a roller-coaster tourna- He had his moments. In January 2010, he made an form of his life, scoring 105 not out against tournament. But bowlers dominated the Charles, originally summoned to replace ment with his World Cup record 215 unbeaten 96 against India then a month later he Bangladesh, 117 not out versus England, second edition of the World Cup-also held Darren Bravo, seized his opportunity to against Zimbabwe in Canberra on February scored his maiden test century against New Zealand, 104 against Australia and 124 in the game in England-when only two hundreds were impress with a fine innings of 55. 24 being the only time he has got past 50. batting at number eight. In 2012, he played the lead- with Scotland. scored, both by eventual winners the West “Chris had the same back problem over Johnson’s half century against the UAE will ing role when Bangladesh beat the West Indies in a Surprisingly it was non-Test side Indies. the last year, and sometimes he has good put the pressure on Gayle’s opening part- ODI series for the first time and he was tipped to Afghanistan who got the better of him, dis- Gordon Greenidge hit a century against days and sometimes he has bad days. ner Dwayne Smith to keep his place after a become his country’s next captain. But his form desert- missing the veteran for seven while India in the group phase before master miserable tournament in which his top ed him and he has been in an out of the team in the Sangakkara managed just 39 in the first blaster Viv Richards sealed the title for the score is just 31 in six innings. years since before fighting his way back for the World game against New Zealand. West Indies with 138 not out in the final “Obviously, Johnson had a very good Cup. Now 29, Mahmudullah has produced his best “It’s one of the rarest things you can see, against England at Lord’s. day. And I would say he’s pretty much when it really matters. Last week, he finally scored his him playing four (hundreds) in a row. I’m The 1983 event-also held in England - secured a spot for the next game. But we’ll first ODI hundred, a brilliant 103 against England lucky to be here to watch all four innings,” saw eight hundreds while the next edition, sit down, discuss and see what conditions which sent Bangladesh through to the World Cup said Sri Lanka chairman of selectors Sanath in 1987 in the sub-continent, had 11. The we’re up against and make a decision,” said quarter-finals and the English home. Four days later, he Jayasuriya yesterday. Sangakkara’s team- number went down to eight in 1992 when Holder. Big-hitting New Zealand batsman scored his second ODI century, an even better 128 not mate Tillakaratne Dilshan, India’s Shikhar Australia and New Zealand co-hosted the Kane Williamson said the Black Caps will be out against a potent New Zealand attack. Dhawan, Zimbabwe’s Brendan Taylor and event for the first time. wary of the potential match-winning cre- His form throughout the whole World Cup has been Bangladesh batsman Mohammad In 2003 in South Africa, Zimbabwe and dentials of Gayle. “Everyone knows what great. Before his back-to-back hundreds, he scored 62 Mahmudullah have all notched two hun- Kenya, 21 hundreds were scored while four Chris Gayle can do and he is one of the against Scotland, 28 against Sri Lanka and 23 against dreds in the current tournament which years later in the Caribbean, the figure biggest match winners in world cricket, so Afghanistan. At the end of the pool phase, he was the kicks off its quarter-finals from Wednesday. dropped slightly to 20. The 2011 World Cup it’s important we put a little bit of focus on fifth highest run-scorer from all countries with 344 Of the 35 hundreds in the 42 matches in saw 24 hundreds in all on the flat pitches of him,” said Williamson whose mighty six runs. His average of 86 was the third best. the group stage, Sri Lanka had eight while India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. —AFP gave New Zealand their tense one-wicket “He’s been terrific throughout this tournament,” said win over Australia in Auckland last month. Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan. “Hopefully “When he plays well, he takes any team Umpires keep English flag flying down in world cricket. But the nature of he’ll continue his performance in the quarter-final cricket is that if you bowl well, you can get match.” SYDNEY: England may have bowed out of Chris Broad, whose son Stuart was in anyone out and we’ve got players who are A handy bowler, Mahmudullah has also bagged the World Cup but they had plenty of rep- England’s World Cup squad, will be the world class players as well that can take one wicket in the World Cup but it’s his form with the resentation among the list of match offi- match referee for the fourth quarter-final games away, so it’s going to be exciting bat that has been the key to his team’s progress. cials announced yesterday for this week’s between New Zealand and the West Indies game between two teams with match win- Now his biggest test will come on Thursday when quarter-finals. Umpires Richard Illingworth, in Wellington on Saturday. Australia’s lead- ners. New Zealand have won 23 of the 53 Bangladesh face defending champions India at the a member of the England side that lost to ing officials also had quarter-final posts, completed ODIs against the West Indies Melbourne Cricket Ground. Before this year, no bats- Pakistan in the 1992 World Cup final in with umpires Rod Tucker, Bruce Oxenford, but lost their last meeting, in Hamilton in man had ever scored centuries in three successive Melbourne, Ian Gould (England’s wicket- Steve Davis and former Test batsman 2014, by 203 runs. World Cup matches but Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara keeper at the 1983 World Cup), Richard turned match referee David Boon all However, the Black Caps will still be has made four in a row, giving Mahmudullah’s team Kettleborough and Nigel Llong will all have involved. Officials for the semi-finals and favorites to make the semi-finals, having mates real hope his long wait to deliver will reap any roles in the last eight. March 29 final in Melbourne will be won all of their six group games in the first more benefits.—Reuters Meanwhile, former England batsman announced in due course. —AFP Chris Gayle round. —AFP TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 SPORTS

Sheikh Ahmad calls on expats to play tennis

KUWAIT: Sheikh Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Sabah, President of Kuwait Tennis Federation (KTF), announced the start of applying to play Kuwait Tennis Open VI. The competitions start on Tuesday April 7 and will run until April 20, 2015 at the Tennis Center of Kuwait Tennis Federation inside Yarmouk Sports Club in Mishref. There will be 11 events in the tourna- ment: (Boys Under 13 Singles - Boys Under 17 Singles - Veterans Over 45 Singles - Veterans Over 55 Singles - Veterans Over 45 Doubles - Professional Men’s Singles - Men’s Singles - Men’s Doubles - Girls Under 18 Singles - Ladies Singles - Diplomats Singles). Matches start at 4:30 pm every day and 9:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays. The tournament will be open to all Kuwaitis and expatriates of all countries. Deadline for receiving applications with a copy of Civil ID card is 6:00 pm on in addition to diplomats and veterans to participate in the tournament. Saturday April 4, 2015 at KTF headquar- LONDON: Arsenal players run around the pitch to warm-up during a training session at the club’s complex at London Colney, ahead of their Kuwait Tennis Open VI is the biggest ters inside Yarmouk Sports Club, Mishref. UEFA Champions League match against Monaco. —AFP Sheikh Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah tennis event in the State of Kuwait. More called upon all tennis players in Kuwait than 450 players are expected to partici- of different categories and nationalities pate. CL Preview Wenger has faith in Arsenal comeback

PARIS: Arsene Wenger believes that Arsenal to do what no other side has managed in the 3-0 at home on Friday. That win left them in have the form to outclass Monaco today and UEFA Champions League era-win having gone fourth place behind Lyon, Paris Saint-Germain reach the quarter-finals of the Champions into an away tie needing to score more than and Marseille with 10 games to go until the end League as the only English side left in the com- once to avoid elimination. of the season. petition. Teams have come back from a home first-leg Portuguese midfielder Joao Moutinho has The Gunners slumped to a shock 3-1 loss to loss only twice in the UEFA Champions League, been instrumental in recent successes and he the Principality side in the first leg at Highbury, and both were beaten 1-0 first time out: Ajax (v believes that the Champions League format but since then they have impressed with a 2-1 Panathinaikos FC, 1995/96 semi-finals, 3-0 sec- suits Monaco better than the stuffiness of Ligue FA Cup win at Manchester United and a 3-0 ond leg) and Inter Milan (v Bayern Munich, 1 play. “We can show our best qualities against trouncing of West Ham on Saturday. 2010/11 round of 16, 3-2 away. the top teams,” he said. “Play in the L1 is very Goals from Olivier Giroud, Aaron Ramsey and Wenger’s upbeat comments, however, were closed, very aggressive. Some teams are good Mathieu Flamini in the London derby kept echoed by Welsh midfielder Ramsey, who is back technically, but others rely on the physical side, Arsenal in third place, seven points behind to near his top form after returning from a third on defending and counter-attacks. It’s hard to Chelsea in the league, albeit with the leaders hamstring injury of the season. find spaces and you have to come up with differ- having one game in hand. The manner of these ent tactics to get the wins. “No-one believed in two wins also gave Wenger hope that he can cel- SLOPPY FIRST LEG us (in the Champions League) and yet we have ebrate his return to Monaco, where he made his “We need to score goals. So we will go there really played well. We deserve to be where we managerial reputation as coach from 1987-94, and try to score three or more goals and hope- are. “I have full confidence in our side, despite with a famous win. fully not concede any. That’s our target and our lack of experience. With the team spirit we “We now go to Monaco, come out of a big that’s how we will approach it,” said Ramsey, who have we can go even further and why not a week, played at Manchester United, played missed the first leg. “We had a sloppy first leg repeat of Monaco and Porto in 2004.” today a derby. We have a little belief,” he said and we’ve made it quite difficult for ourselves That was a reference to the last time that after the West Ham win. “If you have no belief, but it’s not over yet. We are more than capable Monaco made it past the last 16 stage in the you have no chance. We have to have belief and of scoring three goals. We’ll go into the game Champions League. With Didier Deschamps as give everything.” believing we can achieve that.” coach, they went all the way to the final on that To get past Monaco and keep English hopes Monaco also go into the last 16 tie with a occasion before losing to a Porto side managed alive in the Champions League, Arsenal will have good win behind them, having thumped Bastia by Jose Mourinho. —AFP San Lorenzo victory marred by fans death SPAIN: Atletico Madrid’s forward Fernando Torres attends a training session on the eve of their Champions League football match against Bayer Leverkusen. —AFP BUENOS AIRES: San Lorenzo’s 3-1 derby win but were pegged back in a 2-2 draw after Garre, who had scored a brilliant 79th-minute CL Preview over Huracan was marred by the death of a fan going two goals up. The side from La Plata equaliser, dismissed in stoppage time. Rosario who fell 50 metres from the back of a stand at were a man short for the last 35 minutes after Central, the only team to have taken maximum the Nuevo Gasometro on Sunday. midfielder Israel Damonte was sent off for two points from their four matches so far, will Atletico struggling for goals The young fan fell onto another supporter bookings in the space of three minutes. reclaim the lead if they beat Temperley at who was leaving the ground a few minutes Argentinos then had left back Ezequiel home late yesterday. —Reuters before the final whistle, the sports daily Ole MADRID: Atletico Madrid will need to put the goals would start to flow again for the reported. an end to a recent goal drought if they are to Spanish champions. “We are very upset. A fan lost his life and have any chance of overturning a 1-0 deficit “The team looked strong even when we another is in grave condition. We can’t cele- in today’s Champions League last 16, second were playing with 10,” the Portuguese told brate as we would like,” San Lorenzo coach leg at home to Bayer Leverkusen. Atletico, reporters. “We had clear chances and it’s true Edgardo Bauza told the post-match media con- last season’s beaten finalists, have only that we didn’t put them away but I see a ference. scored once in their last four outings in all team that is sure of itself and in good shape. The incident occurred despite the stadium competitions and slipped nine points behind “We know our strengths. We have to keep announcer asking fans to get down from dan- La Liga leaders Barcelona after Saturday’s 0-0 trying so that the goals and the victories gerous positions in the ground, a regular stalemate at Espanyol. Their chances of beat- come.” Although Atletico have only won a request at Argentine matches that supporters ing Espanyol were hampered by the dis- European tie twice before after losing the often fail to heed. missal of centre back Miranda shortly before first leg away 1-0, their home form suggests San Lorenzo’s rivalry with Huracan is one of halftime, Atletico’s third red card in their last they have a good chance of pulling it off the biggest “clasicos” of Argentine football. It five matches, which prompted coach Diego against Leverkusen. Looking to reach the was played for the first time in four years after Simeone to replace forward Fernando Torres quarter-finals of Europe’s elite club competi- Huracan’s promotion back to the first division with defender Jose Gimenez. tion for a seventh time, Atletico have won 20 in December. The Saints conceded a goal to Forwards Mario Mandzukic, Antoine of their last 22 European matches at the Patricio Toranzo after 15 minutes before equal- Griezmann and Torres have been off colour in Calderon. Their only defeat was a 2-0 reverse ising on the half-hour mark through man-of- recent weeks and Atletico have failed to to Rubin Kazan in the Europa League last 32 the-match Leandro Romagnoli. score in three consecutive away games in La in February 2013.—Reuters Central defender Matias Caruzzo put San Liga for the first time since Simeone took Lorenzo ahead at a corner on the stroke of over at the end of 2011. halftime and striker Mauro Matos secured the Leverkusen, by contrast, have rattled in 11 points with a penalty in the 63rd minute after goals without reply in winning their last five Matches on TV playmaker Romagnoli was brought down. games in all competitions, including Friday’s The win lifted the South American champi- 4-0 drubbing of VfB Stuttgart. (Local Timings) ons into second place in the standings on 12 “(Not conceding) of course gives you points from five matches, one point behind more confidence for the following matches, UEFA Champions League Boca Juniors, who beat Defensa y Justicia 2-1 above all for Tuesday, and we wouldn’t com- at La Bombonera on Saturday. Striker Daniel plain if it could last another few games,” Monaco v Arsenal 22:45 Osvaldo headed Boca’s winner with his first Leverkusen goalkeeper Bernd Leno said on beIN SPORTS 1 HD goal in the Argentine first division and fourth the club’s website (www.bayer04.de) on beIN SPORTS 11 HD in four matches including the Libertadores Friday. Atletico v Bayer 22:45 Cup. Atletico midfielder Tiago, who is suspend- beIN SPORTS 1 HD Estudiantes would have joined San Lorenzo ed after his red card in the first leg along with BUENOS AIRES: Supporters of San Lorenzo cheer for their team during the Argentina First beIN SPORTS 11 HD on 12 points with a win at Argentinos Juniors centre back Diego Godin, said he was sure Division football match against Huracan, at Pedro Bidegain stadium. —AFP Van Gaal lights the right touch

LONDON: For 45 minutes at Old Trafford Van Gaal has been criticised for over- team,” Van Gaal told reporters. ourselves,” Van Gaal said. Without the sus- Mata buzzed around to good effect on on Sunday it was just like old times as seeing laboured performances this season, United’s season looked in danger of pended Angel Di Maria, Van Gaal opted to the right, Ashley Young and Daley Blind Manchester United blew Tottenham often grinding out results with negative imploding after their 2-1 home defeat by play Marouane Fellaini behind striker provided width on the left and United’s Hotspur away with three goals in a ruthless tactics at odds with the attacking traditions Arsenal in the FA Cup quarter-finals last Wayne Rooney with Michael Carrick and dominance provided a platform for Chris display of attacking football. of the club. But, finally, against a Spurs side week but they responded very positively to Ander Herrera anchoring the midfield and Smalling and Phil Jones to enjoy solid For the first time under coach Louis van with their own ambitions of a top-four fin- consolidate their place in the top four. Juan Mata restored to the starting line-up. games at the heart of the defence. “To do Gaal, United achieved what they used to ish in the Premier League, United broke “I was very pleased but I’m not sure if it Carrick released Fellaini to score the first that in a massively important game against do routinely under Alex Ferguson, stran- free of the shackles. was our best. You have to watch it again on goal and headed the second himself a competitor after such a defeat means I’m gling a shell-shocked Spurs side and clini- “We have waited a long time for such a video but we played like a team, very before Rooney took advantage of woeful very pleased with the players,” Van Gaal cally killing them off before easing through victory and it was better because the per- determined after a defeat like we had Spurs defending to burst through the mid- said. “Maybe it is the game that gives us a the gears to a 3-0 victory. formance was good against a very good against Arsenal, that we lost because of dle and slot home the third. fantastic boost.”—Reuters TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 SPORTS Zamalek win first match since Cairo tragedy

JOHANNESBURG: Egyptians Zamalek defeated Rwandans Rayon Sports 3-1 in the CAF Confederation Cup at the weekend-their first game since 20 supporters died last month. The deaths occurred outside a Cairo stadium as fans of the White Knights tried to force their way into a stadium. Police reacted by firing tear gas and birdshot, triggering a deadly stampede three years after more than 70 people were killed in post-football match Port Said rioting. The deaths of the Zamalek supporters led to the national league being suspended, but CAF fixtures have gone ahead in empty stadiums. Zamalek players wore shirts with ‘Remember 20’ on them and the match was staged behind closed doors hundreds of kilometres from Cairo in Red Sea resort El-Gouna. The last-32 first leg in the second-tier African club competition marked the debut of Portuguese coach Jesualdo Ferreira after compatriot Jaime Pacheco quit over a row with the Zamalek chairman. Ferreira watched the five-time African cham- pions build a 3-0 half-time lead through a brace from Ahmed Eid and an Emmanuel Imanishimwe own-goal. Rayon, who fluffed a first-half penalty, pulled one goal back through Isaac Muganza. That goal will give Rayon hope ahead of the April 3-5 return match in Kigali, but it would be a shock if Zamalek fail to progress. Gabonese Mounana continued a goal-packed campaign by wallop- ing Zambians Power Dynamos 4-0 in Libreville. Georges Ambourouet raised his goal tally to five as leading Confederation Cup scorer this season by converting a first-half penalty. Cedric Ondo Biyoghe found the net twice within six minutes after the break and a goal from Togolese Arafat Djako completed an unex- pectedly convincing win for the central Africans. Mounana scored eight preliminary-round goals, but they came against the weak opposi- tion of Zanzibaris Polisi. Having won narrowly against Botswanans BDF, Tanzanians Young Africans ran riot at home to Zimbabweans AL-GOUNA: Zamalek’s Ayman Hefny (right) vies with a Rayon Sports’ player during their Platinum for a 5-1 triumph. Group A CAF Champions League football match Egypt’s Zamalek†versus Rwanda’s Rayon Mrisho Ngasa bagged a brace for the Dar es Sports. —AFP Salaam club and Burundian Amissi Tambwe and Rwandan Haruna Niyonzima were other scorers. SPAIN: Levante’s goalkeeper Diego Marino (left) grabs the ball beside Real in Kinshasa. Ivorians ASEC Mimosas were held 1-1 by A first-minute Firmin Mubele goal set up Malians Djoliba and Ghanaians Hearts of Oak Libyans Al-Ittihad in Abidjan with Yahaya Madrid’s Welsh forward Gareth Bale (second left) during the Spanish League foot- Democratic Republic of Congo outfit V Club for a ball match. —AFP built 2-1 home leads over Egyptians Petrojet and Mohamed cancelling the lead Yannick Zakri gave 3-0 victory over Mozambicans Ferroviario Beira Senegalese Olympique Ngor respectively. the 1998 African champions.—AFP Bale answers critics with double for Real Verona sink unhappy Napoli

MADRID: Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale placed his hands over his ears, perhaps a ref- MILAN: Verona’s veteran forward Luca answered his critics in emphatic style when erence to his treatment from the home fans, Toni scored twice to hand his modest he ended a nine-game goal drought with a and ran to thecorner before angrily karate- side a 2-0 win over Napoli and increase double for the European champions in a 2-0 kicking the flag. Bale got a somewhat fortu- the pressure on opposition coach La Liga victory against Levante at the itous second goal five minutes before half- Rafael Benitez in Serie A on Sunday. Bernabeu on Sunday. time when he stuck out a leg and deflected Table-propping Parma’s troubles The world record signing, whistled by his Ronaldo’s low shot into the corner. continued as they lost 4-1 at Sassuolo, own team’s fans during Real’s recent poor run, Karim Benzema sent a spectacular volley playing the last half hour with 10 men, struck twice in the first half and came close to against the corner of the goal frame in the and Inter Milan were held to a 1-1 draw completing his hat-trick midway through the 64th and Bale was brilliantly denied by at home by lowly Cesena. second period to leave Real a point behind Levante keeper Diego Marino in a one-on- Napoli are now in danger of losing leaders Barcelona. one six minutes later. out on third spot, which earns a place in They failed to add to their tally against the Ronaldo, who had a frustrating night, the Champions League qualifying struggling Valencia-based side, however, and stung Marino’s hands with a fierce drive and rounds, after taking one point from question marks remain over their form follow- volleyed wastefully over late on but Real were their last nine. ing a 4-3 reverse at home to Schalke 04 in unable to breach Levante’s defences again. They remain joint third with 46 their Champions League last 16, second leg in “Three points, no goals conceded and now points alongside Lazio, but their rivals midweek. we will go after Barca,” Real full back Dani have a game in hand and visit Torino Real, who still reached the quarter-finals Carvajal said in an interview with Spanish tel- late yesterday. Toni, 37, playing for his on aggregate, head to Barca for next week- evision broadcaster Canal Plus. “We haven’t 14th professional club, opened the end’s ‘Clasico’ at the Nou Camp in second had a good month but we have our fate in scoring when he forced his way place behind their arch rivals, who won 2-0 at our own hands to win the league and we are through the Napoli defence to net from Eibar on Saturday and lead on 65 points with in the Champions League quarter-finals, a narrow angle after seven minutes. 11 games left. which not many teams can say,” added the The former Italy forward struck again Valencia climbed to third on 57 points Spain international. early in the second half, turning the ball thanks to Friday’s 2-0 win at home to in from close range after Emil Deportivo La Coruna, above champions BACCA DOUBLE Hallfredsson’s counter-attack when a Atletico Madrid, who were held 0-0 at Sevilla strengthened their grip on fifth Napoli move broke down to take his tal- Espanyol on Saturday and have 56. spot and closed within four points of Atletico ly to 13 league goals this season. Real coach Carlo Ancelotti made several when Carlos Bacca struck twice in a 3-0 win at There were 12 yellow cards in an changes to the team that lost to Schalke but home to Elche. Colombia striker Bacca put often unsavory match in which Verona’s squeaked into the last eight of Europe’s elite the Europa League champions ahead from Jacopo Sala was sent off for a second club competition 5-4 over the two legs. the penalty spot in the 18th minute at the booking in the 89th minute. The Italian left Germany midfielder Toni Sanchez Pizjuan and made it 2-0 in the 31st Benitez is likely to be under fire for Kroos on the bench and replaced keeper and when he nodded in a Coke cross. his controversial rotation policy after captain Iker Casillas with Keylor Navas, while Elche made a determined effort to get leaving Gonzalo Higuain, Manolo centre back Sergio Ramos returned from back into the game in the second half before Gabbiadini and Jose Callejon on the injury. substitute Kevin Gameiro completed a com- ITALY: Verona’s forward Luca Toni (right) vies with Napoli’s defender from Algeria Faouzi Ghoulam dur- bench at the kickoff. ing the Italian Serie A football match. —AFP fortable victory for the Andalusians nine min- “We didn’t start the game well and STRONG START utes from time. Gameiro ran on to an Ever we paid the price. I expected a different Clearly anxious to make amends for Banega pass and finished clinically past goal- game, I don’t like to lose like this,” Tuesday’s poor showing against the Germans, keeper Przemyslaw Tyton. Sevilla are three Benitez told reporters. Real started strongly and Cristiano Ronaldo points ahead of sixth-placed Villarreal, the “We played three good games Asian nations on verge of poked a close-range shot against a post in team they host in a Europa League last 16 against Lazio (Coppa Italia), Inter Milan the fifth minute. return match on Thursday holding a 3-1 lead (Serie A) and Dynamo Moscow, but we Bale seemed especially fired up and broke from last week’s first leg. They also play at couldn’t maintain that level of intensi- World Cup pay windfall the deadlock in the 18th minute when he Villarreal, who were held to a 0-0 stalemate at ty.” volleyed in after an acrobatic Ronaldo effort Almeria earlier on Sunday, in La Liga in a had been cleared off the line. The Welshman week’s time. —Reuters SINGAPORE: Soccer’s worst international side champions Australia and perennial World Cup BANKRUPTCY HEARING Bhutan are on the verge of a significant pay qualifiers South Korea and Japan, enter the fold. Parma, who face a bankruptcy hear- windfall if they can reach the second round of Even if Bhutan, once beaten 20-0 by Kuwait in ing on Thursday, were left 12 points qualifying for the 2018 World Cup today. 2000, or Sri Lanka finish last in that second adrift at the bottom after another mis- Bhutan, ranked 209th and last by FIFA, will round group, they could qualify for the third Chelsea doing it erable afternoon at Sassuolo, who had take a 1-0 lead into the second leg of their tie round of Asian Cup qualifying, where 24 teams lost their last four games. the hard way Nicola Sansone scored twice while with Sri Lanka after recording only their fourth are drawn into another group phase guarantee- Andi Lila replied in between as ever win and first at this level in Thursday’s ing more fixtures and more cash. Brunei, ranked LONDON: If Chelsea are going to win the title race,” the Portuguese told reporters after Sassuolo led 2-1 at halftime. The game match in Colombo. 198th by FIFA, are another of Asia’s famed non- Premier League it looks like they will stumble the Southampton game. “Of course Arsenal hinged on a second-half incident where Last week’s fixture was also the Himalayan players eyeing a fuller fixture list. hesitantly across the finish line rather than are still in the race, seven points behind. We Parma goalkeeper Antonio Mirante was nation’s first international match in over a year, The tiny former British protectorate of about stride majestically through the tape like an are not complacent, that is something I can- judged to have tripped Sansone and with the local football association opting to 400,000 nestled between two Malaysian states all-conquering Olympic champion. Sunday’s not accuse my players of. was sent off, while the hosts were invest their FIFA funding into youth develop- on Borneo island, has played only 12 interna- frustrating 1-1 stalemate with Southampton “The danger is always there ... but if some- awarded a penalty. ment rather than sending team to play overseas. tional matches in the last six years. at Stamford Bridge was their third successive one had told me in August that in March we Domenico Berardi converted and They had never previously entered a World But under the guidance of Mike Wong, the home draw in all competitions and served to would be six points in front with a match in Simone Missiroli added a fourth in the Cup qualifying campaign since joining FIFA in first Singaporean to coach a foreign internation- highlight all-too-apparent deficiencies in Jose hand, I would have signed for that immedi- 65th minute. Parma have nine points 2000 but did so this year with the world govern- al team, they secured a 1-0 win in Taiwan on Mourinho’s team. ately.” That may be the case but Chelsea were from 25 games after having three ing body offering a “special additional support” Thursday. Too many players seemed tired and listless unable to take maximum advantage of sec- deducted for breaching financial regu- of $300,000 to any member participating in the That was their first victory in a World Cup fix- and Chelsea again appeared over-reliant on ond-placed Manchester City’s shock 1-0 lations. early stages. ture after 12 losses and the goal, scored by Adi Eden Hazard’s lightning pace and tricky ball defeat at lowly Burnley on Saturday and were Cesena, who joined Cagliari in 18th More money could be headed their way with Said, was their first away from home in over 30 skills to drag them out of a hole. lucky to go into the break on level terms place on 21 points, stunned Inter at the a draw or win at their picturesque years of qualifiers for soccer’s showpiece. The Londoners may be six points clear at against a Sadio Mane-inspired Southampton. San Siro when Gregoire Defrel dinked Changlimithang Stadium in the country’s capital East Timor’s Chiquito Filipe do Carmo had the the top of the table, with a game in hand on Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas looked the ball over Samir Handanovic after Thimphu today which would ensure at least honour of scoring the opening goal of the 2018 their rivals, but the dynamic tiki-taka football more like a pedestrian Sunday morning park half an hour. eight more qualifying matches - a vital source of World Cup qualifying campaign when he netted that was on view at the start of the season is player than a World Cup and European Inter, joint seventh alongside Genoa, income for soccer’s lowly outsiders. against Mongolia on Thursday, the first of what now a distant memory. Championship winner as he frittered away levelled three minutes after halftime Do not fall into the trap of believing the possession time and time again in the first when Rodrigo Palacio got in front of his Last year, the Asian Football Confederation is expected to be over 800 matches to deter- destiny of the championship is assured half. Brazilians Oscar and Willian flattered to marker to turn in a pass from fellow voted to revamp their process to reach the mine who will join hosts Russia at the finals. because not only are Chelsea struggling for deceive behind Diego Costa in attack and Argentine Mauro Icardi. Chievo, in 16th World Cup and the 2019 Asian Cup, combining The striker’s effort helped East Timor to a 4-1 form, they also have three dangerous fixtures even the normally rock-solid Nemanja Matic place, moved eight points clear of the the early qualifying stages of the two tourna- win leaving the Mongolians with it all to do on still to negotiate against Arsenal, Liverpool was withdrawn in the second period. relegation zone thanks to Alberto ments. Tuesday. Also eyeing a second leg overhaul at and Manchester United. To be fair to Chelsea they were much bet- Paloschi’s two goals at Genoa. Atalanta, That means the six winners of today’s ties home are Pakistan, who trail Yemen 3-1. Even Mourinho acknowledged that it is no ter after the break and Fraser Forster had to one place below them, are four points between Asia’s worst 12, will be drawn in one of India take a 2-0 lead to Nepal, while longer a two-horse race for the league crown. be at his best in the Southampton goal to clear of trouble after a goalless draw at the eight groups of five in the second round, Cambodia head to the gambling enclave of “There is a danger of more teams being in the keep them out. —Reuters home to Udinese.—Reuters where the region’s heavyweights, such as Asian Macau with a healthier 3-0 advantage. —Reuters Thunder stop Zamalek win first Bulls charge match since Cairo tragedy

TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 201515 19 Starc difference in Aussies campaign Page 16

INDIAN WELLS: Serena Williams returns to Zarina Diyas, of Kazakhstan, during their match at the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament. —AP Serena breezes into fourth round Radwanska upset at Indian Wells

INDIAN WELLS: Top seed Serena Williams made “I was able to feel more consistent today and semi-final that year just minutes before the match, ousted by Swiss Timea Bacsinszky 3-6 7-5 6-4 while buddy-buddy since then. They met later that year short work of Kazakhstan’s Zarina Diyas in the third that really worked in my favor. I’m really glad to still citing injury. Williams, who claimed her 19th grand 10th-seeded Czech Lucie Safarova was sent pack- at the US Open, where Williams got her revenge, round of the BNP Paribas Open on Sunday, obliter- be here and in the tournament. I love the support. “I slam singles crown at the Australian Open final in ing 7-6 7-5 by Ukrainian Elina Svitolina. winning 6-4, 6-1. “So much has happened since ating her opponent 6-2 6-0 in just 53 minutes. was able to relax today because I was able to do January, will next face fellow American Sloane Meanwhile, Sloane Stephens referred to Serena then. I remember playing well there (Aussie Open), Playing her second match at the Indian Wells more of the right things and not make as many Stephens, who scraped past Russian Svetlana Williams as a “colleague” and said she has had to but I think I played better when I played her at the Tennis Garden after deciding to end a 14-year boy- mistakes as I did in my last round.” Kuznetsova 7-6(4) 1-6 6-4. Watson broke seventh- block “a lot” of her fans on Twitter after the two had US Open the same year,” Stephens said Sunday. “So, cott of the event where she had suffered alleged The world number one made a nervous start to seeded Radwanska of Poland in the opening set, a falling out following the 2013 Aussie Open. I don’t know. I obviously didn’t win, but I thought I racist abuse, Williams broke an error-prone Diyas her opening match in emotional circumstances on then stormed back from 2-4 down in the second to Stephens said they are no longer as chummy as played a little more solid in that match.” three times in each set to cruise into the last 16. Friday before battling past Romania’s Monica end the match after an hour and a half. they used to be but they have managed to main- “I felt like every match I played against her I Britain’s Heather Watson claimed her first victory Niculescu 7-5 7-5, saying later she had been over- It was the first time Watson had taken a set off tain a working relationship. “She’s a competitor; have played well,” Stephens said. “I mean, it’s always over a top-10 ranked player with a 6-4 6-4 upset of whelmed by the standing ovation she received Radwanska, having lost in their three previous WTA she’s the number one player in the world. She’s an honor to play No. 1 player in the world. Back in world number eight Agnieszka Radwanska, while from the crowd. meetings, most recently in the second round at what do you call it? ... when you work with some- May 2013, Stephens was quoted in a US magazine third-seeded Romanian Simona Halep battled past Williams had skipped the showpiece event after Indian Wells last year. one? A colleague. She’s a colleague.” as saying that after the Australian Open upset, American Varvara Lepchenko 6-1 3-6 6-1. winning her second title here in 2001, beating Kim “I knew I’d have to play extremely well today, be All three career meetings between the two hap- Williams blocked her from social media. “Things are going in the right direction,” Clijsters in a final marred by some spectators who patient and pull the trigger at the right time,” said pened in 2013, including Stephens 3-6, 7-5, 6-4 “She’s not said one word to me, not spoken to Australian Open champion Williams said courtside booed and heckled the American and her family. the 22-year-old Channel Islander, who is ranked upset in the quarter-finals of the Australian Open. me, not said hi, not looked my way, not been in the after blasting five aces and an array of searing The heckling was in apparent response to 43rd. “I think I found that balance very well today.” Stephens ended a 20-match Williams’ winning same room with me since I played her in Australia,” ground strokes past an outclassed opponent. Serena’s sister Venus having withdrawn from their Eighth seed Ekaterina Makarova of Russia was streak with that victory and the two haven’t been Stephens said. —AFP Federer, Nadal cruise Ibrahimovic faces ban as Wawrinka goes out over anti-France tirade INDIAN WELLS: Roger Federer wasted little time easing into the third round of the BNP Paribas Open on Sunday but his fellow Swiss Stan PARIS: Paris Saint-Germain’s volatile star strik- “People have always welcomed me, I am Wawrinka became the first big name to be sent packing at the elite er Zlatan Ibrahimovic faced a new suspension happy, I respect people who respect me. men’s event. yesterday over comments he made about his Every day of my adventure at PSG is fantastic,” World number two Federer launched his bid for a record fifth title at host country which one French minister he added. the Indian Wells Tennis Garden with a clinical 6-4 6-2 victory over called “insulting”. “Don’t twist things. Let’s talk about foot- Argentina’s Diego Schwartzman which lasted a little over an hour. The French league will study the Swedish ball, let’s not talk about anything but football Seventh-seeded Wawrinka, however, was knocked out of the ATP player’s latest outburst at a meeting on because football is the most important thing Masters 1000 event, losing 6-3 3-6 6-3 to Dutchman Robin Haase. Thursday and could take action against him. for me.”But the apologies were not sufficient Spanish left-hander Rafa Nadal, a three-times champion at Indian Even though Ibrahimovic apologised in a to calm the stormy waters. Sports Minister Wells, also advanced in comfortable fashion as he demolished public relations damage limitation campaign, Kanner welcomed the apology but said “if a Dutchman Igor Sijsling 6-4 6-2 in an evening match lasting just 72 min- far-right National Front leader Marine Le Pen personality as important as Zlatan utes. Federer treated the stadium court crowd to his familiar array of said he should leave France. Ibrahimovic makes such comments, we blistering forehands, clean-hit backhands, power serving and delicate The league imposed a two match ban in should not be surprised that there are such February after Ibrahamovic kicked an oppo- difficulties in stadiums.” drop shots as he broke Schwartzman once in the opening set and twice nent. He was also controversially sent off in “Those who consider that France is a shit in the second. the Champions League victory over Chelsea country can leave it,” Le Pen told the France “I think I did very well,” Federer said courtside after ending the match last week and will miss the two leg quarter Info radio station. Jerome Guedj, a leading with a crunching forehand winner down the line. “It was a bit breezy final. A new ban is likely for the comments Socialist party politician, called the remarks and you had to be careful at times but it’s good to get a first win. “It was after a 3-2 defeat by Bordeaux on Sunday “unacceptable”. important to get off to a good start. I just tried to stay focused and stay when Ibrahimovic had scored twice to level “Let him play football and shut up, or at aggressive on returns, although that’s not always easy.” the key league game. least be respectful of this country, the football Federer, who is competing at Indian Wells for a 15th time, will next Furious at decisions made against Paris, supporters who were also insulted.” face Italy’s Andreas Seppi, who stunned him with a four-set defeat in Ibrahimovic stormed off the pitch and said: Ibrahimovic has become an icon for Paris the third round of the Australian Open in January. “In 15 years, I have never seen such a referee. fans and a wax effigy was unveiled at the “I’m happy to play him again,” Federer said of the 30th-ranked Seppi, In this shit country, this country does not Musee Grevin in Paris last month. But a new who booked his place in the third deserve PSG. We are too good for this coun- ban could see him miss a crunch match round at Indian Wells with a 6-4 6-4 try.” He also made an abusive comment about against arch-rivals Marseille on April 5 and victory over Romanian Victor the referee but backed down after France’s the latest trouble could heighten speculation Hanescu. Sports Minister Patrick Kanner called the about Ibrahimovic’s future at the club. “I was very disappointed with the remarks “insulting”. Comments made by the Swedish player at performance I had in Australia. I Ibrahamovic said in a statement and in a the referee in Sunday’s game are likely to be hope this time around it’s going to video for the Paris Saint-Germain website studied at Thursday’s hearing. The French ref- go better for me. I will be prepared, that his comments “were not directed at erees union, SAFE, hit out at what it called “a there is no doubt about that.” France or the French.” new torrent of hate and verbal violence” by Wawrinka, who clinched his first “I was angry in the heat of the moment. If Ibrahimovic. grand slam singles title at last year’s they thought my comments were against “There are limits that cannot be and must Australian Open, was broken twice them or if they misinterpreted them, I apolo- not be crossed,” the union said, highlighting by Haase in the opening set and also gise sincerely,” the 33-year Ibrahimovic said in the “growing violence” at football matches in the third to be ousted after one INDIAN WELLS: Rafael Nadal of Spain returns to Igor Sijsling of the Netherlands during the video. even at local level. —AFP hour and 48 minutes.—Reuters their match at the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament.—AP India hailed as ‘bright spot’ in gloomy world economy Page 22

Business Gulf stock markets, crude extend losses TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 Page 25 Greece not facing Kuwait consumer sector growth to remain healthy cash shortage: PM Page 23 Page 23

CHICAGO: Photo shows a view of Chicago’s 110-storey, 1,450 foot Willis Tower. Blackstone announced yesterday that it is buying Chicago’s Willis Tower, once called the Sears Tower, from 233 South Wacker LLC for an undisclosed amount. The Willis Tower is 110 stories and the second-tallest office building in the US. It is the fifth-tallest office building in the world. — AP Blackstone buys Chicago’s Willis Tower Iconic 110-storey sold for an undisclosed amount

NEW YORK: US real estate investor of its existence as the Sears Tower, the 442 “We are delighted to be acquiring this square meters) to New York-based Blackstone Group said yesterday it is buying meter (1,451 foot) building was the tallest iconic building on behalf of our limited part- Blackstone’s huge investment portfolio of the iconic 110-storey Willis Tower in Chicago, building in the world for a quarter-century ners,” said Jacob Werner, a Blackstone real real estate and related businesses around News the second-tallest building in the United after its completion in 1973. Today it ranks estate group managing director. “We are the world, including Hilton Worldwide, In Brief States. Blackstone gave no price for the pur- tenth, according to The Skyscraper Center. bullish on Chicago as companies expand Invitation Homes, and Chinese shopping chase from the current owners, 233 South The title of the tallest building in the United within and move into the city and look for malls owner SCP. Blackstone says in all it has Gulf allies’ central bank Wacker LLC, but various US media reports States went to One World Trade Center in first-class office space.” The purchase adds $81 billion in investor capital under man- put the deal at $1.3 billion. Known for most New York, completed two years ago. 3.8 million square feet of space (350,000 agement. — AFP funds to arrive in Egypt CAIRO: Central bank deposits that Egypt’s Gulf allies pledged at an investment summit will arrive in the country within days, the state news agency quoted central bank governor Hisham Has US Fed’s ‘patience’ been exhausted? Ramez as saying yesterday. Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates each offered $4 billion to Egypt, which is seeking to improve the investment climate four years after a World economy coming to terms with soaring dollar, plunge in oil prices popular uprising toppled autocrat Hosni Mubarak. The UAE said on Friday it would deposit $2 billion at the Egyptian cen- tral bank, and Saudi Arabia said it would deposit $1 billion. LONDON: For a world economy coming to terms with a soaring Perhaps more intriguing is a Turkish central bank meeting, also and is likely to lower growth forecasts for this year, according to a State news agency MENA cited Ramez as saying that the dollar and a plunge in oil prices, this week will be all about the US on Tuesday. It has been in rate-cutting mode but found its efforts Reuters poll. Norway is forecast to cut interest rates by a quarter deposits would support central bank currency reserves and Federal Reserve’s policy meeting and its intentions on interest attacked by President Tayyip Erdogan, who has demanded more point to 1 percent as its oil sector looks at an uncertain future. ease pressure on the country’s pound currency. rates. A combination of the European Central Bank printing lots of dramatic action even though inflation is high. The lira, already House prices are rising fast, however, so a further loosening of euros and expectations of a first US rate rise has caused turmoil under pressure from the strong dollar, has tumbled sharply as monetary policy could risk inflating an asset bubble. The govern- on the foreign exchanges and in emerging markets. The euro, investors question the independence of the central bank and the ment has already asked the financial regulator for measures to Qatar’s Masraf Al Rayan eyes which peaked at nearly $1.40 in the middle of last year, is now lan- position of its head, Erdem Basci. put a lid on property prices. potential debut sukuk issue guishing around $1.05 and apparently headed for parity. Basci and Erdogan met last week to iron out their differences Away from the central banking world, Britain’s last annual DUBAI: Masraf Al Rayan, Qatar’s second-largest bank by After successive months of strong jobs data, expectations and may have secured a truce if not a meeting of minds. Erdogan budget before a national election in May will be a big political market value, is eyeing a debut in the debt capital mar- have been growing that the Fed will point towards a June rate rise has previously denounced defenders of high interest rates as “trai- and economic moment. With growth solid and public finances kets this year after inviting bankers to pitch for arranger by dropping a pledge to be “patient” in considering such a move. tors”, suggesting the chances of forging any common understand- starting to surprise on the upside, finance minister George But the dollar’s surge, crimping US exports and cutting imported ing are slim. The Swiss National Bank holds its first policy meeting Osborne has scope for vote-winning giveaways. But that would roles on a potential US dollar-denominated benchmark inflation, could cause its policymakers to pause for thought. St since it shocked financial markets in January by scrapping a three- run counter to his mantra of more austerity to come to put the UK sukuk issue, sources said yesterday. The sharia-compliant Louis Fed President James Bullard, generally viewed as a hawk, year-old cap on the Swiss franc against the euro. It is expected to back on track. Osborne has talked about a cost-neutral budget, institution is expected to raise funds before end-April, said last week the central bank risked delaying too long given the keep its benchmark interest rate below zero until at least 2016 which may leave him some room for largesse. — Reuters three of the sources said, speaking on condition of fall in unemployment. Others expect the absence of inflation to anonymity as the deal is not yet public knowledge. hold sway. A Reuters poll of around 70 economists found an Benchmark size is traditionally understood to mean almost even split between the first move coming in June or later upwards of $500 million. Masraf Al Rayan is “very close” to in the year. mandating arrangers for the upcoming sukuk issue, two “Under our base case, continued inflation weakness will get sources said. The lender did not respond to a request for the Fed to change its tune and refrain from hiking rates in June,” comment by Reuters. Masraf Al Rayan joins a growing said Michael Hanson, senior economist at Bank of America Merrill pipeline of potential Gulf issuance as borrowers want to Lynch in New York. “But the Fed does not appear ready to capitu- obtain funds from the dollar debt markets before a possi- late yet, and will probably keep a June rate hike front and centre ble increase in interest rates by the US Federal Reserve in the minds of market participants.” One question is whether the later this year. world’s big powers, which have hitherto accepted dramatic cur- rency moves as part and parcel of efforts to galvanize growth, will start to grumble about competitive devaluations and a race to the Airbus wins 1.5-billion-euro bottom. The euro has dropped a hefty 25 percent versus the dol- helicopter deal in S Korea lar since around the middle of 2014. International Monetary Fund SEOUL: Airbus Helicopters yesterday inked a deal worth chief Christine Lagarde flagged the risks of divergent monetary policies, given expectations of the Fed normalizing policy while 1.5 billion euros to build more than 300 civil and military the ECB and Bank of Japan continue to print money. “This will choppers in South Korea in partnership with Korea clearly involve more volatility and it will also have currency Aerospace Industries (KAI). “This contract of exceptional impact in that those countries or corporates that have borrowed size is for the development and construction of 214 mili- extensively in dollar-denominated loans are going to suffer,” she tary attack helicopters and around 100 civilian aircraft,” said. Goldman Sachs now expects the euro to slide to $0.80 by the said Norbert Ducrot, vice-president for Airbus end of 2017. Helicopters in northern Asia. “The development and pro- duction contract is worth 1.5 billion euros to Airbus Central bank frenzy Helicopters over 20 years,” he explained. The firm was in It’s a big week for central banks, and they have been busy. competition with Italian-British group AgustaWestland Twenty-four of them have eased policy this year in an attempt to for the contract to help replace South Korea’s ageing revive sluggish economies. The Bank of Japan delivers its latest fleet of military helicopters and the deal gives Airbus policy decision today, a day before the Fed, and is expected to Helicopters an important foothold in a strategically vital maintain its aggressive asset-buying campaign. Policymakers con- market. In 2005, Airbus Helicopters won a similar con- tinue to talk up the prospects of pushing inflation back towards tract for military choppers in South Korea, also in part- its 2 percent target, but many economists expect the BOJ to ease nership with KAI. again sometime this year, as weak oil pushes prices down. NEW YORK: Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange in New York City. — AFP TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 BUSINESS China’s fiscal income growth cools as economy slows

BEIJING: Growth in China’s fis- China’s cooling housing sec- lion yuan. cal revenue cooled to its slow- tor, which accounts for about 15 Tariffs also fell 5.3 percent to est in at least a year between percent of the Chinese gross 40.9 billion yuan as plunging January and February as China’s domestic product, has been an crude oil, iron ore and commodi- foundering economy damp- increasing drag on the world’s ty prices reduced the value of ened tax collection and other second-biggest economy as a imports. On the other side of the key sources of government glut of unsold homes damp- ledger, fiscal expenditure rose income. Fiscal revenue rose 3.2 ened home prices and property 10.5 percent in the first two percent to 2.57 trillion yuan investment. Official data months of the year from the ($410.5 billion) in the first two showed property sales in the year-ago period, outstripping an months of the year, data from first two months of 2015 average rise of 8.2 percent in the Finance Ministry showed dropped by the most in three 2014. The spike in expenditure yesterday. That was far less than years as real estate investment was a result of regional govern- an average 8.6 percent gain in eased. And in a reflection of the ments ramping up their spend- fiscal income seen in 2014, and sagging housing sector, govern- ing to support the faltering the slackest pace seen in at least ment revenue earned from sell- economy, the Finance Ministry a year. Indeed, a breakdown of ing state land tumbled 20.9 per- said. Government spending on the figures showed taxes col- cent to 391 billion yuan. social security and employment lected from the real estate sec- Collection of income taxes also climbed 15.6 percent to 331 bil- tor fell 1.6 percent to 96.5 billion dropped 7.1 percent to 164.6 lion yuan, and expenditure on yuan in the first two months of billion yuan, while consumption housing benefits for low-income the year as China’s housing tax and import value-added tax groups jumped over a fifth to BEIJING: Pedestrians wearing mask against heavy pollution wait to cross a traffic junction industry stumbled. skidded 9.7 percent to 194.8 bil- 39.3 billion yuan. —Reuters in Beijing yesterday. —AP IMF hails India as ‘bright spot’ in gloomy world economy India wholesale prices drop 2.06%

NEW DELHI: International Monetary many projects were still being stalled Fund chief Christine Lagarde hailed by red tape. “Much needs to be done in India as a bright spot in the otherwise easing land acquisition, expediting gloom-ridden global economy yester- clearances, and establishing a stable day, saying the recovery from the 2008- regulatory regime so that the private 2009 financial crisis was still fragile. sector can invest,” she said. “These Speaking at the start of a two-day visit, issues are on the radar of policymakers, Lagarde said India was bucking the which is promising, they must be on trend of declining growth seen in other the action list.” Lagarde is paying a two- major economies and was on course “to day visit to India, her first since Modi’s become a key engine for global right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) growth”. ousted the centre-left Congress party With the global economy expected last May after a marathon general elec- to grow at only 3.5 percent this fiscal tion. As well as her talks with top offi- year and even Chinese growth deceler- cials and the keynote speech in Delhi, ating, Lagarde predicted India would she will travel to the financial capital soon be the fastest growing major Mumbai for other meetings today. economy. “More than six years after the global financial crisis, the recovery Wholesale prices drop remains too slow, too brittle, and too Meanwhile, India’s wholesale infla- lopsided,” Lagarde said in a speech in tion fell a sharper-than-expected 2.06 New Delhi ahead of talks with Prime percent in February, the fourth straight Minister Narendra Modi later Monday. drop, as global oil prices sit at multi- “We have pared down our forecasts year lows, data showed yesterday. The of global growth since last October, fall in the Wholesale Price Index (WPI), despite the boost from cheaper oil and the inflation measure with the biggest stronger US growth. “And while the basket of goods, was greater than a 0.8 global economy is expected to grow by percent drop predicted by a Bloomberg 3.5 percent this year, and 3.7 percent survey and will fuel talk of another next year, this is still below what could interest rate cut. have been expected after such a crisis,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s right- she told an audience of business lead- wing government had earlier revised ers. “In this cloudy global horizon, India the November fall in WPI inflation to is a bright spot,” she added. Since Modi 0.17 percent. The latest figures show came to power last May, inflation has food and fuel prices dropped in fallen to around five percent while February, good news for millions of ALLAHABAD: Indian vendors, selling articles used for performing rituals, watch street dogs play on the banks of the Sangam, the revised gross domestic product (GDP) Indians living in chronic poverty who confluence of the rivers Ganges, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswathi. —AP data has put growth for the current are badly affected by any sharp changes financial year at 7.4 percent, meaning in both categories. “My sense is that the Asia’s third largest economy is now out- Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will take this China’s TV targets foreign auto firms pacing China. chance and cut 25 basis points in April,” A fall in global crude prices has also said Ashutosh Datar, economist at IIFL SHANGHAI: Foreign carmakers in China rushed ed to offer a software upgrade to address the its verified China microblog. A joint venture of been a major boon to a country that is Institutional Equities in Mumbai. to make amends yesterday after being targeted issue. “This has brought consumers inconven- Japan’s Nissan in China responded to similar one of the world’s biggest oil importers. The RBI has made two unscheduled by state television in a ritual naming and sham- ience and difficulties, we express our deep accusations by saying it would strengthen Lagarde welcomed the government’s cuts this year on easing inflation in a ing of firms for alleged misconduct towards con- apologies,” the company said in a statement on supervision of after-sales service. first full budget last month for striking bid to boost business borrowing and sumers. Jaguar Land Rover, Volkswagen and its website. CCTV also said that some foreign car- Foreign auto manufacturers are already “a good growth-equity balance” and assist growth of Asia’s third largest Mercedes-Benz were among those targeted makers’ service centers overcharged for repairs under pressure in China, the world’s largest car praised Modi’s drive to make India a economy. Hopes remain of another cut Sunday by the annual China Central Television or recommended unnecessary work. It said market, following a sweeping investigation into major manufacturing hub and an easier despite the government, using a new (CCTV) program for World Consumer Rights Day these included Germany’s Volkswagen and alleged monopoly pricing for parts and com- place to do business. But she also formula, announcing last month that on March 15. The two-hour show has in the past Mercedes-Benz, a unit of Daimler. plete vehicles. Last year China fined 10 Japanese stressed that the government needed the economy would grow at a robust criticized foreign companies such as Apple, “We sincerely apologize for any inconven- auto parts firms more than $200 million in total prompting an apology from chief executive Tim ience caused to our customers,” Volkswagen said for price-fixing. But the CCTV program, which to do more to allow “an open and com- 7.4 percent in the ongoing year. India Cook in 2013 over customer service and return in a statement to AFP. “We welcome customers was broadcast live, also singled out some petitive business environment to flour- had been thought to be struggling policies. to contact us directly should they have any domestic companies, including telecommunica- ish”, saying up to $1 trillion in infra- through its worst economic slowdown This year it took aim at Jaguar Land Rover, problems with dealer service.” Mercedes-Benz tions service providers, for failing to prevent calls structure investment was required over in more than two decades by growing owned by India’s Tata Motors, over alleged faulty pledged to investigate. “We will immediately which could result in fraud. Industry giant China the medium-term. below five percent, not enough to cre- gearboxes in its Evoque SUVs sold in China. open a thorough investigation and urge the rel- Mobile said it would investigate the matter, While Modi has pledged to stream- ate jobs needed for its millions of Jaguar Land Rover said it had from January start- evant dealers to carry out rectification,” it said on according to a statement posted online. —AFP line bureaucracy, Lagarde said that too young people. —Agencies EXCHANGE RATES

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. UAE Exchange Centre WLL Syrian Pound 2.590 Philippine Peso 0.006698 0.006978 Nepalese Rupees 3.980 Sierra Leone 0.000067 0.000073 Singapore Dollar 0.213787 0.219787 ASIAN COUNTRIES Malaysian Ringgit 81.815 COUNTRY SELL DRAFT SELL CASH Chinese Yuan Renminbi 48.455 South African Rand 0.018494 0.026994 Japanese Yen 2.479 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001883 0.002463 Indian Rupees 4.788 Australian Dollar 222.02 Thai Bhat 10.120 Taiwan 0.009411 0.009591 Pakistani Rupees 2.957 Canadian Dollar 240.29 Turkish Lira 114.180 Thai Baht 0.008878 0.009428 Srilankan Rupees 2.252 Swiss Franc 304.42 Nepali Rupees 3.006 Euro 323.73 Arab Singapore Dollar 217.660 US Dollar 300.10 Bahrain Exchange Company Bahraini Dinar 0.791813 0.799813 Hongkong Dollar 38.750 Sterling Pound 455.22 Egyptian Pound 0.038484 0.041584 Bangladesh Taka 3.867 Japanese Yen 2.51 COUNTRY SELL CASH SELLDRAFT Iranian Riyal 0.000083 0.000085 Philippine Peso 6.798 Bangladesh Taka 3.853 Iraqi Dinar 0.000190 0.000250 Thai Baht 9.182 Indian Rupee 4.772 Europe Belgian Franc 0.007849 0.008849 Jordanian Dinar 0.420454 0.427954 Irani Riyal transfer 61.555 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.244 Irani Riyal cash 121.740 Nepali Rupee 2.989 British Pound 0.439001 0.448001 Kuwaiti Dinar 1.000000 1.000000 Pakistani Rupee 2.950 Czech Korune 0.003708 0.015708 Lebanese Pound 0.000150 0.000250 GCC COUNTRIES UAE Dirhams 81.58 Danish Krone 0.038823 0.043823 Moroccan Dirhams 0.021547 0.045547 Saudi Riyal 80.272 Bahraini Dinar 796.52 Euro 0.312214 0.320214 Nigerian Naira 0.001238 0.001873 Qatari Riyal 82.699 Egyptian Pound 39.22 Norwegian Krone 0.033089 0.038289 Omani Riyal 0.775674 0.781354 Omani Riyal 782.070 Jordanian Dinar 426.40 Romanian Leu 0.086328 0.086328 Qatar Riyal 0.081952 0.083165 Bahraini Dinar 799.520 Omani Riyal 778.28 Slovakia 0.008939 0.018939 Saudi Riyal 0.079617 0.080317 UAE Dirham 81.967 Qatari Riyal 82.64 Swedish Krona 0.030975 0.035975 Syrian Pound 0.001275 0.001495 Saudi Riyal 79.94 Swiss Franc 0.294400 0.304600 Tunisian Dinar 0.147799 0.155799 ARAB COUNTRIES Turkish Lira 0.114329 0.121329 Turkish Lira 0.114329 0.121329 Egyptian Pound - Cash 41.450 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd UAE Dirhams 0.080956 0.082105 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 39.362 Australasia Yemeni Riyal 0.001360 0.001440 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.405 Australian Dollar 0.221271 0.232771 New Zealand Dollar 0.215434 0.224934 Tunisian Dinar 152.350 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate Al Mulla Exchange Jordanian Dinar 424.880 US Dollar 300.800 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 2.019 Canadian Dollar 237.600 America Canadian Dollar 0.230675 0.239175 Syrian Lira 2.146 Sterling Pound 445.000 Currency Transfer Rate (Per 1000) US Dollars 0.296850 0.3011550 Morocco Dirham 30.090 Euro 318.110 US Dollar 298.850 US Dollars Mint 0.297350 0.301550 Swiss Frank 302.790 Euro 323.750 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Bahrain Dinar 800.155 Pound Sterlng 452.450 Asia US Dollar Transfer 300.900 UAE Dirhams 82.275 Canadian Dollar 239.000 Bangladesh Taka 0.003568 0.004168 Euro 318.860 Qatari Riyals 83.445 Chinese Yuan 0.046656 0.050156 Indian Rupee 4.775 Sterling Pound 446.780 Saudi Riyals 80.395 Hong Kong Dollar 0.036717 0.039467 Egyptian Pound 39.150 Canadian dollar 237.250 Jordanian Dinar 424.575 Turkish lira 114.060 Indian Rupee 0.004549 0.004950 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.240 Egyptian Pound 39.347 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000018 0.000024 Bangladesh Taka 3.842 Swiss Franc 300.900 Sri Lankan Rupees 2.253 Australian Dollar 232.900 Japanese Yen 0.002399 0.002579 Philippines Peso 6.750 Indian Rupees 4.773 US Dollar Buying 299.700 Kenyan Shilling 0.003333 0.003333 Pakistan Rupee 2.942 Pakistani Rupees 2.957 Korean Won 0.000257 0.000272 Bahraini Dinar 795.750 Bangladesh Taka 3.865 GOLD Malaysian Ringgit 0.078260 0.084260 UAE Dirham 81.600 Philippines Pesso 6.772 20 gram 238.100 Nepalese Rupee 0.003040 0.003210 Saudi Riyal 79.800 Cyprus pound 738.350 10 gram 121.740 Pakistan Rupee 0.002773 0.003053 *Rates are subject to change 5 gram 61.560 Japanese Yen 3.475 BUSINESS TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 Kuwait growth to maintain its pace

NBK Economic Update

KUWAIT: Economic activity has picked up over the last two years, supported by the accelerated implementation of the government’s development plan and a robust consumer sector. Ambitious capi- tal spending targets have boosted aggregate investment and should con- tinue to do so in 2015 and 2016.The National Assembly’s recent approval of the government’s 2015-2020 investment agenda and the FY15/16 capital spend- ing budget indicates the government is staying the course on plans to boost infrastructure spending in the economy, as indeed it has stated it intends to do. However, Kuwait’s fiscal position has been squeezed over the last three quar- ters as the price of oil plummeted. As a result, Kuwait is likely to register its first deficit in years during FY15/16. Still, we think the government has sufficient buffers to weather a period of lower oil revenues. The country entered the peri- od of lower oil prices following several years of substantial fiscal and external surpluses. Also, the state has one of the the rise, driven largely by improved partnership (PPP) investment model. price of oil (from $75 per barrel to $45); largest sovereign wealth funds in the implementation of the government Legislation passed in 2014 should lead Real estate sector this, in addition to reducing projected region, estimated at over 300% of GDP, development plan. The plan, which calls to better regulation of the PPP initia- Real estate sales maintained healthy revenues, lowered the estimated cost of which should allow it to easily finance a for both government and private invest- tives. The new law replaced the growth throughout 2014, led by strong subsidies by 35%. However, this cut only deficit. The government is also taking ment in a host of large infrastructure Partnerships Technical Bureau (PTB) with growth in the investment and commer- affects transfers between state entities steps to reduce unnecessary spending projects, has seen a number of signifi- the Kuwait Authority for Partnership cial sectors. Total sales rose to a record and does not imply a reduction in subsi- without touching strategic capital cant awards over the last year. Further Projects (KAPP).It is hoped that the new KD4.3 billion in 2014, up 19% on the dies provided to the public. Other pro- spending. progress should be seen in the coming body, with greater independence and year before. Sales of investment proper- posed cuts were in “wages and related Risks remain however, especially in period after the National Assembly executive powers, will more effectively ties rose by nearly 30%, supported by items” and “other expenditures”. addressing the medium to long term fis- passed the broad investment plan for manage PPP initiatives. the attractiveness of rental properties in cal sustainability concerns. A key chal- the next five years (2015-2020) as well as an environment of low interest rates. The Inflation remains moderate lenge is limiting current government the FY15/16 capital spending budget. Consumer sector commercial sector also saw robust Inflation in Kuwait has remained spending growth and addressing the The recently approved 2015-2020 The consumer sector has been growth in 2014, rising by over 40% from moderate running at around 3.0% y/y in large subsidy bill. Recent experience has development plan envisions spending resilient despite expectations of slowing the previous year. 2014. Inflation excluding the more highlighted the large political obstacles around KD 34 billion on new projects in growth. Instead, the sector remains a key volatile food component (or “core infla- facing efforts to reduce general fuel sub- various sectors including the oil sector, driver of the nonoil economy. Fiscal surplus narrows tion”),was slightly higher at 3.2% y/y. sidies in Kuwait, for example. power generation, transportation and Household income growth has remained Following16 years of fiscal surpluses, Consumer price growth has been on a Nonetheless, we think the government’s housing. Most of the projects in the plan robust, thanks to steady hiring among Kuwait is expected to record its first moderate uptrend over the last two gradual approach should ensure Kuwait deficit in years during FY15/16 as a years but has remained subdued thanks addresses the concerns in due course. result of the decline in the price of oil. to low international inflation and Government spending is also expected benign domestic pressures. We expect Non-oil growth to decrease in FY15/16 as the govern- inflation to continue to increase towards Kuwait’s non-oil economy has been ment seeks to reduce the deficit, 3.5% in 2015on accelerating domestic seeing an increase in activity, reflecting though most of the cuts will come in activity. the improved economic conditions. The areas that should leave the outlook for most recent available data on GDP the domestic economy unchanged. In Dinar strengthened growth show Kuwait’s nonoil economy particular, investment spending plans The Kuwaiti dinar (KD) strengthened growing by 5.6% in 2013. We think that will be largely unchanged. in 2014, in large part due to the pace of growth was maintained in 2014. In oil markets, Brent declined by over stronger US dollar. The KD, which is Growth is likely to edge towards 6% in 60% from its highs in June 2014 to its pegged to a basket of major currencies, 2015 and 2016, as investment spending lowest level in January 2015. The aver- declined by 4.8% against the USD increases. There have been some con- age oil price for FY14/15, which ends in between June 2014and February 2015; cerns that nonoil growth may be falter- March 2015, is expected to come in at but, due to the central bank’s peg ing though we do not think the data $85 per barrel, 47% lower than the year mechanism, the KD moved up against support these concerns. In particular, before. As a result, oil revenues are all other major currencies, rising by 15% private credit growth has been easing expected to drop by 24% to KD 22.3 bil- against the euro, 12% against the yen following several years of acceleration. lion. Despite a narrowing surplus, the fis- and over 5% against the British pound Private credit grew by 6.2% y/y in cal balance in FY14/15 will remain posi- during the same period. Overall, the KD December 2014, down from growth of tive and large at around 8.8% of GDP. has strengthened as measured by the JP 8.1% in 2013. Business credit (excluding In response to lower oil prices, the Morgan trade-weighted index of the personal facilities and the nonbank government has proposed a more aus- dinar, which has risen by around 8.5% financial sector) alone slowed to 5% y/y tere budget for FY15/16, which starts in since May2014. from 7.9%. However, we think that these April 2015. The proposed spending fig- figures are down largely due to the ure, which still awaits legislative Stock market rebounds write-off of Family Fund loans by banks have already been approved individually both Kuwaitis and skilled expats. As a approval, is 18% lower than the prior Following a large correction during and the pay down of legacy debt by and have been on the government’s result, we have seen strong growth in year’s budget, at KD 19.1 billion. The the last quarter of 2014, Kuwait equities some corporates in 2014. Adjusting for drawing board for several years. consumer spending and household bor- draft budget projects a deficit 18% of bounced back in early 2015. The Kuwait these factors, we think growth accelerat- The plan’s broader vision is to rowing, both in the double-digits. Card GDP. We think it will be closer to 6% of Stock Exchange’s value-weighted index ed to near 9% in 2014. improve Kuwait’s investment environ- spending grew by a steady 14.7% y/y in GDP, due to a slightly higher price of oil (IXW) rose by 1.6% since the start of ment and to boost private sector partici- 2014, pointing to solid retail activity, and the usual under spending. Half of 2015. The MSCI total return index shows Government development plan pation in the economy. This is to be while personal loan growth topped the spending cuts in the FY15/16 budg- a more robust 5% gain year-to-date Investment spending has been on done largely through the public-private 12.7% y/y in December 2014. et are due to the change in the nominal compared to a small decline in 2014.

US consumption Greek state ‘not facing a cash shortage’ soars amid cheap Spain pressures Greece to keep promises in debt crisis fuel prices ATHENS: The Greek state is not facing a cash funds, the European Central Bank has limit- debt crisis and prevent its dropping out of sovereign bailout as Greece had in 2010. LONDON: Fuel demand in Texas is growing strongly shortage, Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras insist- ed the power of Greek banks to assist the the euro-zone. “I do not want Greece to “Spain has got over the worst,” Rajoy insisted as lower oil prices encourage motorists to use their ed Sunday as his government braced for state by buying its short-term treasury bills. leave the euro. I do not believe that would yesterday. vehicles more and buy larger replacements. another week of pressing debt repayments. Greece’s harshest critic, German Finance be good for Greece or for Europeans in gen- He pointed out that interest rates on “There is absolutely no problem with liquidi- Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble this week eral,” said Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Spain’s sovereign debt are at record-low Receipts of motor fuel taxes in February 2015 were ty,” Tsipras told reporters after a meeting warned that a disorderly “Grexident”-playing Rajoy in a radio interview. “Right now what I levels-a key sign of financial stability. 6 percent higher than in the same month in 2014, Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis. The on the terms “Grexit” and an accident-that would like is for Greece to honor its commit- Greece on the other hand is shut out of according to the Texas Comptroller of Public finance minister had earlier told Alpha TV: could push Athens out of the euro could not ments like we others are all doing.” financial markets as it fights to stabilize its Accounts. Texas collected almost $284 million in “There is no problem in securing funds for be excluded. “To the extent that Greece is Greek Defense Minister Panos public finances. Greece’s radical left-wing motor fuel taxes last month compared with $269 salaries and pensions.” The denials came as solely responsible and decides what is to Kammenos warned in an interview pub- Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras came to pow- million in February 2014 according to the comptrol- Greece prepared to issue 1.0 billion euros happen, and we don’t know exactly what lished on Saturday of a potential “domino er in January promising to soften the aus- ler’s monthly Revenue Watch report ($1.1 billion) in three-month treasury bills Greek leaders are doing, we can’t exclude it,” effect” if Greece left the euro-zone. “If Greece terity measures which were imposed as (http://link.reuters.com/xas34w). tomorrow to meet debt repayments. The Schaeuble told Austrian broadcaster ORF. explodes, Spain and Italy will be next, and conditions for Greece’s bailout. In February Motor fuel taxes must be paid to the comptroller government this week must repay over 900 eventually Germany,” he was quoted as say- his government secured a four-month by the 25th day of the month after which they are million euros to the International Monetary Greece under pressure ing by German newspaper Bild. That echoed extension of its bailout, but European Fund and redeem 1.6 billion euros in three- Meanwhile, Spain raised the pressure on warnings by economists at the height of the authorities are withholding the next 7.2 bil- collected by suppliers and distributors, so the month treasury bills, To Vima weekly report- Greece yesterday to “honor its commit- euro-zone crisis in mid-2012, when Rajoy’s lion-euro payment until Greece passes new February receipts are for gasoline and diesel sold in ed Sunday. ments” to its European partners to end its government came close to seeking a full reforms. — Agencies January. Year-over-year collections - and by exten- Greece has drawn no loans from its 240- sion gasoline and diesel sales - are growing at the billion-euro EU-IMF rescue package because fastest rate for more than a decade. Texas con- the new government is still locked in talks sumed 35.7 million gallons of gasoline and 20.1 mil- with its international creditors on a revised lion gallons of diesel each day in 2014, according to reform plan. With a 6.0-billion debt bill in the US Energy Information Administration. March overall on Athens’ books, Germany’s Texas accounts for 10 percent of nationwide Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung on Sunday gasoline sales and 13 percent of diesel sales. The warned that Greek civil servants should brace themselves for downsized salaries and state is second only to California in the consump- pensions this month. European parliament tion of gasoline and is the largest diesel consumer president Martin Schulz also told the daily: in the union. Texas tax statistics are the fastest lead- “Tsipras urgently needs money.” The German ing indicator of fuel sales. But nationwide data in politician, who met Tsipras last week, said recent months has painted a similar picture of rap- Athens had to convince euro-zone nations idly growing gasoline and diesel sales across the and the European Central Bank of its deter- country as the economy strengthens and cheaper mination to carry out reforms. prices encourage more driving. Greece’s outspoken Finance Minister Contrary to the International Energy Agency, Yanis Varoufakis on Sunday described his which last week painted a gloomy picture in its country’s liquidity problems as “insignifi- cant”. “Small, insignificant problems of liq- monthly Oil Market Report, there is evidence the oil uidity should not divide Europe,” he said in a market is rebalancing relatively quickly. The number talk show on German broadcaster ARD. To of rigs drilling for oil in the United States has fallen cover the cash shortage, the radical govern- by almost half in the last five months, which should ment this week submitted a law that directs soon cause shale output to level off or fall in the the cash reserves on pension funds into next few months. In the meantime, gasoline and state debt purchases. Financial daily diesel prices have dropped by $1 per gallon since Naftemboriki on Saturday reported that June 2014, encouraging more driving. Crude inven- pension funds have 2.5 billion euros deposited at the Bank of Greece, and anoth- tories are high but are a lagging indicator. More for- ATHENS: A fisherman arranges his net at a marina at a coastal suburb of Athens yesterday. Tensions between Greece, its euro- ward-looking data suggest rebalancing is proceed- er 1.9 billion in private banks. Analysts have described the move as “scraping the barrel”. zone partners and the institutions supervising the debt, the Commission, the European Central Bank and the IMF have been ing rapidly. — Reuters In addition to holding back promised heightened by the new government’s continued election-style rhetoric and the EU’s austerity demands.— AP BUSINESS TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 Asian shares edge up ahead of Fed meeting Spreadbetters see strong opening for European bourses

TOKYO: Asian shares drifted higher yesterday CAC 40 called opening 15 to 20 points higher, or year low amid oversupply fears. The International formed, rising to five-year-highs, with the Tuesday, a day before the Fed, and is widely after a downbeat session on Wall Street kept sen- up 0.4 percent. Energy Agency said on Friday that the global CSI300 index and the Shanghai Composite expected to maintain its aggressive quanti- timent in check, while the euro recovered from a “European markets, with the exception of the supply glut is growing and US production shows Index both up more than 2 percent after tative and qualitative asset-buying program fresh 12-year low touched on the divergent mon- FTSE100, continued to be juiced by the European no sign of slowing. Premier Li Keqiang said that Beijing had to stoke growth and sustainable inflation of etary policy paths between the United States and Central Bank’s easy monetary policy, which start- US crude shed about 1.2 percent to $44.31 a plenty of scope to adjust policies in order to 2 percent. “Rises in bank and other domes- the euro-zone. Financial spreadbetters expected ed last Monday, with bond yields continuing to barrel, while Brent crude lost about 0.6 percent boost the world’s second largest economy. tic demand-oriented shares symbolizes an a stronger day ahead in Europe, with Britain’s decline to record lows,” Michael Hewson, chief to $54.32. MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific “Investors have nothing to fear now improved confidence that the economy is FTSE 100 seen opening 26 points higher, or up market analyst at CMC Markets, said in a note. Oil shares outside Japan was a few ticks higher, eras- because the message is that if economic getting out of deflation,” said Takashi Hiroki, 0.4 percent; Germany’s DAX likely to open 61 to prices continued to tumble, with US crude drop- ing early losses and remaining above last week’s growth continues to slow, there will be chief strategist at Monex Securities in Tokyo. 63 points higher, or up 0.5 percent; and France’s ping more than 2 percent at one point to a six- seven-week trough. Chinese shares outper- more stimulus measures,” said Tian Weidong, analyst at Kaiyuan Securities in Dollar down Xi’an in northwest China. The dollar took a breather from its recent Friday’s weak US inflation data failed to rally, but remained close to multi-year derail expectations that the Federal Reserve highs. The euro slipped as low as $1.0457 will tighten monetary policy, and US shares early in the Asian session, its lowest since slumped on concerns about the impact of January 2003, but then rebounded to higher rates and a stronger dollar on corpo- $1.0528, up about 0.3 percent on the day. rate profits. The S&P 500 marked its third Still, the euro has lost roughly a quarter of straight losing week, though it stood just 3 its value versus the dollar since around the percent below its record high set early this middle of 2014. It suffered its biggest week- month. ly fall since September 2011 last week, Investors’ main focus this week is on the shedding 3.2 percent as the European Fed’s two-day meeting beginning on Central Bank launched its 1.1 trillion euro Tuesday. After successive months of strong bond-buying stimulus program. jobs data, expectations have been growing Goldman Sachs now expects the euro to that the Fed will point towards a June rate slide to $0.80 by the end of 2017. Against rise by dropping a pledge to be “patient” in the yen, the euro edged up about 0.2 per- considering such a move. Data on Friday cent to 127.60, but remained not far from a showed that US producer prices fell in 21-month trough of 126.86 set on Friday. February for a fourth straight month, point- The dollar index lost ground due to the ing to tame inflation that suggests the cen- euro’s retracement, losing about 0.4 percent tral bank has scope to hold off. to stand at 99.947, but staying near its 12- Japan’s Nikkei stock average ended year high of 100.420. Against its Japanese slightly down after notching a fresh 15-year counterpart, the dollar shed about 0.2 per- intraday high yesterday and logging its fifth cent on the day to 121.23, but was still not straight winning week. The Bank of Japan far from a nearly eight-year high of 122.04 will announce its latest policy decision on hit today. — Reuters

FRANKFURT: A giant board (background) displays German Stock Market Index DAX at the stock exchange in Frankfurt am Main, western Germany yesterday as it broke above the level of 12,000 points for the first time. — AFP Oil drops on ample stocks LONDON: Brent crude oil fell to around continue,” Societe Generale oil analyst $54 a barrel yesterday, its lowest for more Michael Wittner said. than a month, on rising global invento- “The arithmetic works out to a com- ries and signs of a possible nuclear deal bined build in crude oil and refined prod- with Tehran that could allow more ucts of approximately 200 million barrels Iranian oil exports. Western powers are in March-June. Any way you slice it, this is hoping for concessions from Tehran that bearish for prices.” China has been taking could help clinch an agreement in advantage of low prices to build up its nuclear talks this week after the United strategic petroleum reserves, but ana- States and European powers voiced a lysts say new spare capacity will only willingness to compromise on suspend- become available later this year, denting ing UN sanctions. near-term import needs. Brent for April dropped $1.34 to Lower oil prices have encouraged $53.33, its lowest since early February, exploration and production companies before recovering some ground to trade to cut back on the number of oil and gas around $54.00, down 67 cents, by 1135 drilling rigs employed in the United GMT. US crude fell to $43.57 in early trad- States and elsewhere, but this trend will ing, its lowest since March 2009, before take some time to translate into lower rebounding to around $44.35. Both output. Goldman Sachs analysts said in a benchmark crude futures contracts have research report that a falling US rig count fallen over the last two weeks on mount- would only bring slightly lower produc- ing evidence of a global glut that is filling tion in the second quarter of this year. oil inventories rapidly. Meanwhile, any sharp increase in pro- World stockpiles are rising at a rate of duction or exports from Iran would be 1.6 million barrels per day (bpd), French very negative for oil markets. “The bank Societe Generale estimates, and it prospect of an increase in Iranian oil sales forecasts the build will accelerate to 1.7 as part of a new agreement in the next million bpd in the second quarter. couple of months will only exacerbate “Another wave of weakness hit the oil OPEC oversupply, supporting our bearish markets last week, and we expect it to outlook,” Barclays said. — Reuters Gold steadies above a three-month low

LONDON: Gold steadied above a three- Deutsche Borse’s MNI senior analyst Tony month low yesterday as the dollar fell Walters said. “The only thing that could against the euro. Stronger shares and cause shorts to rethink their positions at expectations this week’s Federal Reserve the moment would be if the Fed didn’t meeting could hint at the timing of any raise rates in June,” he added. “But if the Fed hike in US interest rates kept investors cau- removes ‘patient’ from its minutes then I’d tious. Spot gold was down just 0.1 percent expect more selling.” Investor sentiment at $1,157.10 an ounce by 1044 GMT. The towards gold has been bearish. Holdings in metal had fallen for nine consecutive ses- SPDR Gold Trust, the world’s largest gold- sions up to Thursday, its longest losing backed exchange-traded fund, fell 0.28 streak since 1973. It hit its lowest since Dec tons to 750.67 tons on Friday. 1 on Wednesday at $1,147.10, after strong Hedge funds and money managers US jobs data stoked speculation that the reduced their bullish stance in Comex gold Fed would increase rates in June. and silver for the sixth straight week in the US gold futures for April delivery were week ended March 10, US Commodity up $4.80 at $1,157.20 an ounce. The dollar Futures Trading Commission data showed fell 0.5 percent against a basket of leading on Friday. Lower gold prices attracted some currencies, mostly due to a stronger euro bargain hunters in Asian physical markets, after Italy’s central bank governor voiced but not in sufficient numbers to boost concern about the pace of its fall as the prices, said traders. European Central Bank launched quantita- In the second biggest consumer China, tive easing. But investors were mostly look- premiums on the Shanghai Gold Exchange ing at the Fed’s two-day policy meet that increased slightly to $5-$6 an ounce above begins on Tuesday for clues on how soon it the global London benchmark. Silver was could raise interest rates. Higher rates down 0.1 percent at $15.59 an ounce, could dent demand for gold, which does while palladium fell 0.3 percent at $785.20 not pay any interest. an ounce. Platinum was up 0.2 percent at “Gold has been managing to hold above $1,114.70 an ounce, having fallen to its $1,150 but ...any relief rally is likely to be lowest since 2009 at $1,108.50 on short lived with plenty of sellers lining up,” Thursday. — Reuters BUSINESS TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015

With iCow and M-Farm, smartphones reboot African agriculture Africa key to rising global food demand

JOHANNESBURG: Wider smartphone and Internet it can sell to African governments, NGOs and phar- access has allowed technology firms to reach maceutical companies. To spur growth in African remote African farmers with apps providing veteri- agriculture, however, governments need to nary diagnoses, crop planting guidance and virtual improve transport and power infrastructure, and marketplaces. Human food production will need to banks need to lend to farmers. “The number one increase 70 percent by 2050 to meet rising demand challenge for smallholder farmers in Africa is access and Africa is home to more than half of the world’s to credit,” said Kola Masha, founder of Nigerian firm unused arable land, according to United Nations Doreo Partners. “As smartphone technology research. becomes cheaper we’ll see an increasingly positive Africa’s farms have failed to cash in because of a impact,” said Masha, who has linked-up with Swiss lack of access to infrastructure, training, capital and RE to insure farmers against drought. rapidly advancing technology. Areas being farmed by African smallholders are only producing around ‘Last frontier’ one metric ton per hectare, compared with seven Masha hopes to reach 1 million smallholders by tons in developed markets. The growth of Africa’s 2025 by providing technology, fertilizer and seeds middle-class combined with a fall in the prices of to farmers, who pay him back when their profits technology has opened up opportunities for increase. Agriculture giants like Syngenta and investment in farms on the world’s poorest conti- Monsanto are investing in technology in Africa but nent. “Africa is key to global food supply and we ROZ-SUR-COUESNON: Salt meadow sheep graze on the polder Saint-Louis in Roz-sur-Couesnon, north- micro-tech firms are also popping up in off-the- need to unlock its potential,” said Mark Davies, a western France. — AFP beaten-track areas. Botswana start-up Modisar dotcom veteran who runs Esoko, which provides tracks cattle herds and gives advice on feed, vacci- advice to farmers and links them with traders in a nations and finance by text message. It won the virtual marketplace. technology could increase annual agricultural pro- huge opportunity,” said Ibrahim, who along with Orange African Social Venture award last year. Esoko charges farmers $1 a month to use the ductivity in Africa by $3 billion-a-year, McKinsey his IT graduate colleagues developed VetAfrica, an Cameroon’s Mewanko Farm has set-up an online service and businesses pay between $3,000- says. app which provides veterinary advice. Cojengo has marketplace for farmers to sell fresh produce in a $20,000 annually. Other apps recently launched been backed by Microsoft and, like most technolo- scheme it hopes will increase the income of 13 mil- include a Kenyan cattle-monitoring app called Mobile access gy firms targeting African agriculture, it is also lion people. The growth in the use of technology in iCow and online marketplace M-Farm, which has “People who don’t have access to running water working with foreign aid donors. Africa could bring hundreds of millions of poorly- partnered with Samsung. By 2025, half of Africa’s 1 or electricity have access to a phone that is more Growth in agriculture is twice as effective at organized and isolated people in rural communi- billion population will have Internet access and powerful than computers we had a few years ago,” reducing poverty as other sectors, aid agencies say, ties into global markets. “I think of this as the last there will be 360 million smartphones on the conti- said Sami Ibrahim, lead developer at Glasgow- but tech firms are also hoping to turn a healthy frontier on earth for the Internet,” said Esoko’s nent, according to McKinsey consultants. Internet based technology start-up Cojengo. “That creates a profit. Cojengo wants VetAfrica to build a database Davies.— Reuters US factory output falls for 3rd straight month Homebuilder sentiment slips

WASHINGTON: Output at US factories fell for a extraction. The Institute for Supply Homebuilder sentiment third straight month in February, driven by a big Management, a trade group for purchasing Also, US homebuilders are feeling slightly less drop in production at auto plants. The Federal managers, reported that its index of manufactur- confident in their sales prospects, even as their Reserve said yesterday that manufacturing out- ing activity slipped to 52.9 in February, marking overall sales outlook remains favorable. The put fell 0.2 percent in February, following a the fourth straight drop and the lowest reading National Association of Home Builders/Wells decline of 0.3 percent in January. Overall indus- since January 2014. The ISM index showed that Fargo builder sentiment index slipped this month trial production edged up a slight 0.1 percent in orders, hiring and production all slowed last to 53, down two points from 55 in February. It’s February, as unusually cold weather in many month. The rising dollar is expected to con- the third monthly decline in a row for the index. parts of the country led to a surge at utilities. The tribute to bigger trade gap this year. The trade Readings above 50 indicate more builders view YANGON: Workers unload an oil barrel from a ship at a jetty in Yangon. — AFP weakness at factories is attributed in part to a deficit widened in the October-December quar- sales conditions as good, rather than poor. stronger dollar, which makes US exports more ter, subtracting 1.1 percentage points from the Builders’ view of current sales conditions and traf- expensive on overseas markets, and supply dis- economy’s growth rate during the period. fic by prospective buyers declined. Their outlook ruptions from the labor dispute at West Coast Growth slowed to a rate of 2.2 percent in the for sales over the next six months held steady. The Low oil prices may ports. fourth quarter, and many analysts believe the latest reading is consistent with the NAHB’s fore- Analysts, however, aren’t too concerned. They pace will be similar in the January-March quar- cast for the US housing market to continue to say rising consumer spending will likely offset ter. improve at a gradual pace this year.— Agencies hit US output: OPEC the recent lackluster showing in manufacturing. Solid job gains and lower gasoline prices should LONDON: US oil output could start to take a States and elsewhere that had been eroding give households more to spend on other items. hit by late 2015 due to low prices, OPEC said its market share. OPEC holds its next meeting “We expect that the strong domestic economy yesterday, suggesting the exporter group will in June and comments from officials so far will ensure that manufacturing output continues have to wait beyond its next meeting in June suggest it will not adjust policy as it waits for to grow at a reasonable pace despite the strong to see if its strategy to defend market share the strategy to take effect. For now, OPEC dollar,” said Paul Dales, senior economist at will dent the shale oil boom. The halving of oil forecast no further rise in demand for its Capital Economics. The February factory weak- prices since June 2014 has prompted spend- crude in 2015, trimming the forecast slightly ness was led by a 3 percent plunge in produc- ing cuts by oil companies and a drop in US to 29.19 million bpd, and left unchanged its tion of motor vehicles and parts, the third drilling, raising expectations of slowing out- estimate of global growth in oil demand this straight decline in this category. Production of put in countries outside the Organization of year. machinery and primary metals such as steel and the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). In last month’s report, OPEC had sharply appliances also fell. But in a monthly report, OPEC left its fore- increased the 2015 forecast of demand for Manufacturing growth has slowed over the cast for non-OPEC supply this year its oil due to a lower outlook for non-OPEC past six months. US producers have had to con- unchanged and said output of US “tight” oil, supply. OPEC’s report confirmed other esti- tend with a rising dollar, which makes their also known as shale, might only start to be mates suggesting its production declined in goods more expensive in foreign markets. curbed towards the end of the year. “Tight February and projected a slightly smaller Production has also been hurt by supply disrup- crude producers are aware that typical oil global supply surplus in 2015, without out- tions from the West Coast labor dispute. The dis- wells in shale plays decline 60 percent annu- put cuts by OPEC or other producers. With pute was settled in the third week of February, ally, and that losses can only be recouped by OPEC pumping 30.02 million bpd in but analysts said it could take months to work drilling new wells,” OPEC said. “As drilling sub- February, according to secondary sources through a massive backlog of containers at the sides due to high costs and a potentially sus- cited in the report, OPEC indicates there will port. The 7.3 percent surge in utility output tained low oil price, a drop in production can be a supply surplus of 830,000 bpd in 2015 reflected frigid temperatures on the East Coast be expected to follow, possibly by late 2015.” and 2 million bpd in the first half - less than and record snowfall levels in the Northeast. Oil’s collapse from $115 a barrel in 2014 in January. Saudi Arabia, which led OPEC’s Output in mining fell 2.5 percent in February. Oil gained impetus after OPEC refused to cut no-cut strategy, reported a small, 40,000- prices have skidded by about half since last output at a November meeting, seeking to bpd dip in February output to 9.64 million summer, which has led drilling companies to HARMONY: A workers grinds parts used to build fans for industrial ventilation systems at the slow higher-cost production in the United bpd.— Reuters hold off on new wells and reduce oil and gas Robinson Fans Inc plant in Harmony, Pa. — AP

Gulf stocks drops Liking Apple too much, a big Mideast Stock Markets problem for fund managers

DUBAI: Gulf stock markets, including the previ- session when it proposed a capital reduction NEW YORK: At more than 15 percent of his fund’s assets, John not have to sell shares if they appreciate above that level, said ously resilient Saudi Arabia, extended losses and no dividend payments for 2014. The only Burnham, manager of the $136 million Burnham Fund, has a Jay Baris, an attorney at Morrison & Foerster in New York. alongside oil yesterday, while Egypt dropped on gainer among major stocks was low-cost carrier larger stake in Apple Inc than any other diversified fund. “I think profit-taking after a strong run and ahead of a Air Arabia, which edged up 0.6 percent on the they are doing everything right and it’s still a cheap stock based Big bets fresh public offer of shares. Brent crude fell to last day its shares carried the 2014 dividend. on earnings and revenue,” he says. Yet that devotion for Apple is Burham didn’t set out to have such a big stake in Apple, he a problem for Burnham and some other managers of so-called said. He began buying shares in 2005 when they traded at a around $54 a barrel, its lowest for more than a Abu Dhabi’s benchmark fell 1.4 percent in diversified funds like his - they want more Apple than they can split-adjusted level of less than $7 each. Those shares have now month, on rising global inventories and signs of another broad sell-off. Abu Dhabi National buy under self-imposed risk-reducing guidelines that typically appreciated over 2,000 percent. “It’s the world’s greatest compa- a possible nuclear deal with Tehran that could Energy Company, which has also suffered from have them holding no more than 5 percent of their assets in any ny. I just don’t see any reason to sell it,” Burnham said, adding allow more Iranian oil exports. Saudi Arabia’s oil’s plunge, tumbled 6.7 percent. one company. that he thinks that the stock should trade above $200 a share. stock index posted its biggest single-day loss in Qatar’s index lost 1.7 percent as major petro- Burnham and the 174 fund managers like him who hold Shares of the company closed at $123.59 on Friday. two months, dropping 2.0 percent on heavy vol- chemicals player Industries Qatar dropped 2.4 large stakes of their diversified portfolios in Apple are pulled in His big weighting in the company is also helping his per- ume to a two-week low of 9,438 points. The percent and Qatar International Islamic Bank, two directions: hoping to prevent an unforeseen drop in Apple formance, which may in turn bring in more investor dollars. petrochemical sector fell 2.6 percent. which went ex-dividend, tumbled 8.6 percent. shares from upending their portfolios, while also benefiting Burnham’s fund, which also has significant positions in Chipotle The earnings of petrochemical producers, Egypt’s market also turned negative and from a company whose shares are up 12 percent this year so far. Mexican Grill and Williams Companies Inc, is up 4.8 percent for which constitute the biggest sector on Saudi dropped 2.0 percent with virtually all stocks in “Your positioning in Apple may hold a big sway in how your the year to date, according to Lipper, a return about 4 percent- Arabia’s stock market, have been hit hardest by the red, after touching a one-month intra-day fund does overall, particularly in categories like large blend age points better than the S&P 500. Over the last 5 years, the oil’s sustained fall. Also, Saudi Arabia’s index had high of 9,820 points in the previous session. The where every basis point counts,” said Laura Lutton, who over- fund has returned an average of 14.3 percent a year, a perform- vastly outperformed other major Gulf markets, Cairo bourse had gained 9.0 percent year-to- sees equity fund research at fund tracker Morningstar. In 2014, ance slightly better than average large cap fund. The fund costs rising 15.5 percent this year as of Sunday, so the date as of Sunday, making it the second-best for instance, funds that underweighed Apple compared to $1.36 per $100 invested, a rate slightly above average. uncertainty over oil tempted short-term performer among major Middle East markets. “I broad market indexes were the most likely to underperform Other fund managers with large stakes in Apple who aren’t investors to book profits. In the longer run, mon- think there is profit-booking at high levels,” said their peers, she said. selling say that they didn’t set out to have an oversized position ey is likely to continue flowing into the kingdom Harshjit Oza, an analyst with Naeem brokerage in the company. David Chiueh, the manager of the Upright as it prepares to open its stock market to direct in Cairo. Risks Growth fund, has 13.4 percent in Apple, the second-largest foreign investment in the first half of this year, a Also, some investors may be cashing out to Holding a concentrated position in one company is one way among diversified funds tracked by Lipper, mostly because move that could eventually help it secure take part in the secondary public offer of food for stockpickers to stand out as investors move money to pas- shares he bought in 2008 have appreciated, he said. The sive index funds. Yet it is unusual for diversified funds like BlackRock Science and Technology Opportunities Portfolio, the emerging market status from major index com- maker Edita, which announced an indicative Burnham’s to hold more than 10 percent of their portfolios in third-largest Apple holder, has an underweight position accord- pilers. price range yesterday. Sources told Reuters ear- one company, said Todd Rosenbluth, director of mutual fund ing to the fund’s chosen benchmark, the MSCI World lier this month that Edita was seeking to raise 2 research at S&P Capital IQ. “Investors may not realize that their Information Technology index, a company spokeswoman said. UAE, Egypt billion Egyptian pounds ($262 million) from its fund manager is taking on a higher amount of risk,” he said. Other large holders of Apple have started to trim their posi- Dubai’s index dropped 2.6 percent. Emaar offer on the Cairo bourse, and that trading was Most fund managers are inclined to take profits when a stock tions. Mark Mulholland, whose Matthew 25 fund is classified as Properties , the emirate’s biggest listed develop- expected to begin in April. Bucking the regional hits 7 percent of a portfolio, yet there are few set mandates set a non-diversified fund, has 15.3 percent of his portfolio’s assets er, tumbled 4.8 percent after it said it was not trend, Orascom Construction surged 6.4 per- down by fund firms, Rosenbluth said. He said that he can’t think in Apple. He expects to trim the position down to 10 percent of involved in a project to build a new capital city cent in Cairo and 6.6 percent on NASDAQ Dubai of any fund families that have to sell if holdings exceed guide- his portfolio, in part because the company’s shares do not look in Egypt, contrary to recent United Arab after announcing plans to raise $1.95 billion in lines as a result of appreciation. Diversified mutual funds are as attractive on a valuation basis, he said. “It’s not a company Emirates and Egyptian media reports. Bahrain’s syndicated loans which will be used for the $3 allowed by law to add shares of a company as long as its total under duress by any means, but it’s not trading at as big as a Gulf Finance House fell 3.9 percent after tum- billion first phase of a coal-fired power station weight is below 24.9 percent of their portfolios overall, but do discount as it was before,” Mulholland said.— Reuters bling its daily 10 percent limit in the previous in Egypt. —Reuters BUSINESS TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 Samsung launches new additions to MultiXpress Series New models enhance Samsung’s printing solutions offering

DUBAI: Samsung Electronics Co Ltd, a leader in digital conver- accommodate varying infrastructure environments, the gence technologies, has extended its Smart MultiXpress line of MultiXpress X4300 and K4350 models help businesses become Android-powered printers with powerful new solutions for A3 more efficient and more productive. Offering powerful perform- and A4 printing. The new lineup was unveiled in Kuwait yesterday ance to drive efficiency in the workplace, the Dual Scan at an event hosted by Samsung in partnership with Easa Husain Document Feeder (DSDF)enhances high speed scanning and pre- Al-Yousifi and Sons Co at the Radisson Blu hotel. Offering a truly vents paper jams. A high speed 1GHz Dual CPU processor, 4G mobile printing experience, these multi-function printer models memory, 300GB HDD guarantee quick prints and connections, as (MFP’s) are designed to be independent of PCs, intuitive to use well, boosting office productivity without the fuss that high-vol- and scalable for all types of business environments. ume printing can involve. These models work with BYOD devices The Smart MultiXpress series MFPs feature the new Samsung’s and offer flexible connectivity options and the easiest mobile Smart UX Center, touch-based user experience (UX) technology printing solution on the market with NFC Technology. that powers the Samsung Galaxy line of smartphones and tablets. The Smart MultiXpress series MFPs are also considered the indus- MultiXpress M4370 LX & M5370LX try’s first application of haptic technology, a function that recre- Providing A4 printing solutions, the M4370LX and M5370LX ates a sense of touch with vibrations, creating a more tactile user produce professional, high-quality results through an easy-to-use experience. interface. A 10.1-inch color LCD touchscreen enables users to “Samsung develops printer solutions that fit seamlessly into search and print from web browsers, emails, maps, images and the IT and office ecosystem. By applying mobile technology from other types of content without the need to connect to a PC or our popular Galaxy series smartphones, we make printers that are server. The touchscreen also offers users the ability to preview easier to use and perfectly adaptable to every evolving business documents, and comes equipped with editing and annotating need,” said Khaled Kamel, Director of Enterprise Business at capabilities. Samsung Gulf Electronics. “Our new additions to the MultiXpress The unique configuration of the M4370LX and M5370LX can line are not just intuitive and user-friendly, but they are built to accommodate businesses of all sizes and industries. Factory-pro- create better, smarter and faster workflow for our customers.” vided modules serve as the foundation for adding various compo- nents and customizing with optional component. Samsung’s MultiXpress X4300LX& K4350LX Business Core(tm) Printing Solutions (BCPS) work as efficiently as The MultiXpress X4300 and K4350, the latest in the A3 printers users do with secure, cost-effective print operations. These solu- range, are designed to meet the needs of small to medium busi- tions require no dedicated server or IT resources and reduce nesses. Developed to reduce the total cost of ownership and unnecessary printing and supply use. A group photo for Samsung and Al-Yousifi company managers. Indonesia posts a trade surplus Southeast Asia attracts more foreign direct investment

JAKARTA: Indonesia posted a trade surplus for a Foreign direct investment locations for their factories, with countries like third straight month in February, official data Meanwhile, Southeast Asia’s major economies Vietnam and the Philippines looking like attractive showed yesterday, but the good news was tem- drew more foreign direct investment combined than alternatives,” said Dan Martin, Asia Economist at pered by figures showing a huge fall in both China for the second straight year in 2014, as growth Capital Economics. “ASEAN is also a large market in its exports and imports. Southeast Asia’s top economy in their giant neighbor cooled. But by country, inflows own right, and one with good long-term growth saw a higher-than-expected surplus of $738.3 mil- into the region were uneven, swayed by political prospects. Given the general slowdown in other lion, the statistics agency said. But exports tumbled change and the varying costs of doing business. emerging market regions in recent years, it is starting 16.02 percent on-year to $12.29 billion, while Overall FDI into Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, the to stand out.” Air Arabia rewards passengers imports slid 16.24 percent to $11.55 billion. Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam rose to a record The Philippines, the second-fastest growing Indonesia also posted a large surplus in January, $128 billion in 2014, estimates compiled by Thomson major economy in Asia, attracts investors with its with its ‘Airewards’ program which was revised up from $710 million to around Reuters show. strong economic fundamentals. But one concern is $750 million. “The trade surplus was due to lower That surpassed the $119.56 billion that flowed the continuity of economic policies following the Region’s first low-cost carrier loyalty program oil prices and the weakening of the rupiah in into China. FDI into the Philippines grew the fastest, at 2016 general elections. That means some invest- February,” said statistics agency official Sasmito 66 percent, while in Thailand, where the military ment decisions might be postponed. Slumping SHARJAH: Air Arabia, the Middle East and money proposition at the heart of its busi- Hadi Wibowo. The figures will be bad news for poli- seized power last year, inflows fell. FDI into Indonesia, commodity prices could pinch on FDI inflows into North Africa’s first and largest low cost car- ness model. This program not only sets the cymakers, who had hoped a weaker currency the region’s biggest economy, rose around 10 percent resource-rich Indonesia and, to a lesser extent, rier yesterday launched ‘Airewards’, the first standard for the low-cost aviation industry, might provide a boost to exports and manufactur- even though it was an election year. As China’s trou- Malaysia. Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who ever Low Cost Carrier rewards program in it also allows us to say a big thank you to ing by making Indonesian-produced goods cheap- bled manufacturing sector loses momentum, Chinese took office in October, is seeking more foreign the MENA region, which makes earning the millions of loyal passengers who chose er abroad. The government of President Joko businesses will be venturing abroad to cut operating investment in manufacturing to counter the and redeeming points effortless. Airewards to frequently fly with our airline.” Joining Widodo is struggling to improve the country’s costs and to search for new markets, economists say. volatile resources sector. But Indonesia has many is designed to offer the same simple, trans- Airewards is free and open for everyone. manufacturing sector and wean Indonesia off com- Manufacturing powerhouses in Southeast Asia improvements to make, particularly in its business parent and value-packed experience that Members can earn and redeem their points modity-driven expansion in a bid to boost eco- should pay heed. “Rising wages in China are leading infrastructure, to successfully challenge the region’s customers associate with Air Arabia. Points while traveling with Air Arabia via its hubs nomic growth, which has fallen to a five-year low. low-end manufacturers to look for other low-cost manufacturing leader - Thailand. — Agencies are based on money spent rather than dis- in the UAE and Morocco. Members will also tance flown, and can be earned on any be the first to learn about promotions and product or service purchased from the air- new routes, schedules and launches. line. Program features have been specifically Ford Motor Company Conservation and Environmental This online loyalty program also offers designed with Air Arabia’s customers in unparalleled flexibility when redeeming mind and points can be earned and shared Grants program awards $100,000 to local organizations points, with the availably of a variety of with anyone. For passengers who fly fre- payment and reward options, without any quently for business and then occasionally DUBAI: The Ford Motor Company Conservation the way. Award: $5,280 Al Manar Modern School - tected. To achieve this, Biosphere Expeditions is blackout dates or limitations on availability. with their whole family, Airewards offers a and Environmental Grants program yesterday Urine Power Generator: Al Manar Modern School training and engaging local people in reef conser- “Air Arabia is proud to unveil Airewards, the dedicated “Family Account” for up to eight announced 12 recipients who will share $100,000 has devised a unique environmental project that vation through Reef Check methodology and region’s first ever low cost carrier loyalty relatives to enable faster earning and to support their ongoing projects aimed at protect- uses urine to produce electricity. The project establishing a civil society based Reef Check net- program and a major step forward in how quicker redemption. Airewards act like a ing the environment. The Grants program, which addresses three major environmental concerns: work in Oman. Award: $15,000 we engage with our customers” said Adel currency with 100points equal toUS$1. helps grassroots level projects dedicated to envi- pollution, sewage and electricity costs. The award A. Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air They can be redeemed via the Air Arabia ronmental causes, revealed winners from the UAE, will be used to purchase model components, to Yemen Arabia. “Air Arabia has always used innova- website on flights, baggage and ancillaries, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen. test and to implement the program. Award: Sumood Abdul Hadi Al-Bahlooli - Booklet A, B tive products and cutting edge technology using only points or a combination of For the first-time in the initiative’s history, the Ford $12,000 for home farming: This grant will support the publi- to provide customers with a hassle-free points and cash. The program offers unlim- Grants was extended to Yemen in 2014. cation of a simple booklet detailing how to grow travel experience. ited availability and no blackout dates. To “Being active and supportive members of our Iraq vegetables indoors, written in an easy-to-under- The launch of Airewards falls in line with learn more about Airewards, please visit local communities is one of the founding pillars of Iraqi Centre Supporting the Role of the Youth - stand manner, and supported by prominent the airline’s commitment to put value for www.airarabia.com. Ford Motor Company, and the Conservation & Let’s Save Tigris: The highly-polluted Tigris River experts in the field of agriculture. The booklet will Environmental Grants demonstrate just that as needs help to save it from dying. Through environ- be printed and sold at public libraries. Award: proven by their track record over the past 14 years,” mental awareness and advocacy campaigns, the $2,600 said Kalyana Sivagnanam, director, Marketing Sales Iraqi Centre Supporting the Role of Youth is acting Mohammed Abdullah Abdo Al Hakimi- Green and Service, Ford Middle East and North Africa. to help preserve the famous river, and this award Dream: Green Dream is the main source of news “Through this program, we honor the dedication of will help fund an awareness campaign to reduce and information about environmental issues in environmental groups who are passionate about pollution from both the government and private Yemen. The project is the first independent Yemeni educating young people to care for the environ- sector. Award: $3,040 news site specializing in covering environmental ment and about the importance of conservation. news which aims to create community awareness “The work these worthy organizations do in their United Arab Emirates in a country where environmental awareness is still areas will leave a lasting legacy in their communi- Rima Jabado - Your Eyes on Elasmos: This proj- very weak. Green Dream aims at increasing news ties and for future generations,” Sivagnanam ect aims to advance research and conservation by coverage in order to reach more people whether added. This year’s grants recipients, who are in the promoting citizen science in areas of conservation on the Internet or through their mobile. Award: process of receiving their funds with completion in and threatened species, working to ensure the $2,500 the next 30 days, are: diversity, abundance and distribution of sharks, rays, guitar fishes and sawfishes (elasmobranch) in Program history Jordan the UAE. Award: $6,000 Over the last 14 years, the program has awarded Land and Human Advocate Progress (LHAP) - almost $1.4 Million, spread to 176 separate projects Traditional Water Harvesting Improves Community Bahrain throughout the Middle East. Grants have support- Resilience to Climate: In 2011, Land and Human to Bahrain Women’s Association for Human ed projects that study and conserve the region’s Advocate Progress (LHAP) initiated a project to Development - Environmental United: This project rich biodiversity, recycling programs, green build- reuse grey water to reduce water consumption and aims to highlight the best environmental behavior ing initiatives and work to raise conservation consequently help address the issue of water and practices to be adopted to achieve a sustain- awareness. The Ford Grants is one of the largest scarcity in Jordan. With the Grants award, LHAP will able environment. The grant will be used for corporate initiatives of its kind in the region, creat- organize 15 visits to three sites from Amman and English and Arabic educational materials, including ed to empower individuals and non-profit groups other cities and focus its campaign to drive aware- a guide for kindergarten. Award: $14,700 that are donating their time and efforts to preserve ness amongst media and influencers. Award: the environmental well-being of their communi- Joyalukkas opens its new $10,000 Oman ties. Ford Motor Company Conservation & Green Generation Environmental Group - Biosphere Expeditions - Capacity-building in Environmental Grants has received support from Garbage Museum: This program aims to establish a civil society in Marine Conservation in the various governmental and non-governmental envi- jewelry showroom in KSA permanent scientific and educational museum for Sultanate of Oman: Biosphere Expeditions has ronmental authorities from around the Middle waste at a state-owned school in Amman. The established two Marine Protected Areas (MPA) East, including the World Wide Fund for Nature, the JUBAIL: The world’s favorite jeweler, Alukkas, Chairman & MD, Joyalukkas Group. award will be used to present an educational which need consistent local support to remain pro- Emirates Wildlife Society, the Arab Forum for Joyalukkas opened its new jewelry showroom Joyalukkas, Jubail showroom features the exhibit that explains the lifecycle of home and Environment & Development (AFED) and UNESCO in KSA. The new store in Lulu Hypermarket, widest range of collections in gold, diamond, school garbage. Award: $10,000 Doha. King Faisal Street, Jubail was inaugurated by precious stone, platinum and pearl. The mix “As a one of the strong advocates of environ- Yusuff Ali M A, Managing Director Lulu of jewelry offered is the largest choice of tra- Lebanon mental protection and conservation in the region, International Group; HE Prince Saud Bin ditional and contemporary jewelry design to Arcenciel - Sodak’s Space: Sodak Space is UNESCO Doha is happy to support the Ford Motor Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz in the presence of HE meet all the needs of jewelry lovers. John intended to create an innovative and interactive Company Conservation and Environmental Grants,” Bader bin Mohammed Al-Qtaishan, Governor Paul Joy Alukkas, Executive Director, mobile exhibit to help educate the Lebanese com- said Anna Paolini, director, UNESCO Doha. “This of Jubail; John Paul Joy Alukkas, Executive Joyalukkas Group said “We are extremely munity in waste management good practices. The program is outreaching more and more grassroots Director, Joyalukkas Group; Sonia John Paul, grateful to the country and it’s lovely resi- exhibit leads by example with seats made from regional beneficiaries each year in a concrete effort Director Joyalukkas Group; Antony Jos, dents for the warm welcome they have given upcycled materials, original sorting bins, an educa- to support their environmental work. Much advo- Director, Joyalukkas Group, many local digni- us. Our team in Jubail is eagerly waiting to tional dart game, an interactive wall and wheel- cacy is needed to encourage more communities taries and VIP’s. With its presence across ten serve the residents here. Our aspiration is to chair challenge. Award: $10,000 and groups to be part of this conservation effort. countries around the world (Kingdom of be the world’s favorite and with this objec- Al Safadi Foundation - Don’t Waste Your Waste: We need to spread even further to outreach and Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, tive, shoppers are assured of the best in jew- This project aims to increase the sense of responsi- backup more good proposals.” Oman, Singapore, London, Malaysia & India), elry shopping at all times.” bility among the Lebanese community on waste Winners are chosen by an independent panel of the world’s favorite jewelry chain is renowned Joyalukkas is committed to offering the management and recycling issues. The organiza- judges consisting of academics and leaders from for offering over One Million choices of best prices on the over one million choices of tion will also tap students to help in awareness regional environmental organizations. The judges breathtaking jewelry at each of their show- jewelry designs it offers at its showroom. The campaigns and to train them in recycling initia- are carefully selected in partnership with UNESCO room. global jewelry retail chain also ensures 100% tives. Award: $8,880 Doha based on geographical coverage, age and “Firstly a big thank you to the esteemed transparency of the prices on all jewelry sold Association for Forests, Development and gender equality. They look for initiatives that Yusuff Ali M A for taking time of his precious at their showrooms. “We have opened in Conservation - The Tree Trail: The Tree Trail is a demonstrate a well-defined sense of purpose, a schedule to attend our opening ceremony, Jubail so that jewelry lovers here get a world unique way to propagate environmental education commitment to maximizing available resources, would also like to thank the residents of of never before seen choice in jewelry. We and eco-tourism by establishing a hiking trail in the and a reputation for meeting objectives and deliv- Jubail for a very warm welcome. We have have created an array of exquisite and ethnic village of Ramlieh. The trail will weave its way into ering planned programs and services. For more opened a state-of-the-art jewelry showroom choices to make the jewelry shopping a great the natural forest to provide access for hikers and information about Ford Motor Company for Jubail residents and are giving them the experience for people here.” added Joy highlight, at the same time, Lebanese flora through Conservation & Environmental Grants, please visit best experience in jewelry shopping.” said Joy Alukkas. informative plaques on major tree species along http://me.ford.com or write to [email protected]. TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 TECHNOLOGY Facebook clarifies guidelines on acceptable posts

WASHINGTON: Facebook yesterday updat- disagreeable or disturbing to you may not ed its “community standards” guidelines, violate our community standards.” giving users more clarity on acceptable The move comes with Facebook and posts relating to nudity, violence, hate other social media struggling with defining speech and other contentious topics. acceptable content and freedom of expres- The world’s biggest social network said sion. “It’s a challenge to maintain one set of it does not allow a presence from groups standards that meets the needs of a diverse advocating “terrorist activity, organized global community,” the blog post said. criminal activity or promoting hate.” “This is particularly challenging for The new guidelines say Facebook will issues such as hate speech. Hate speech take down “graphic images when they are has always been banned on Facebook, and shared for sadistic pleasure or to celebrate in our new community standards, we or glorify violence.” Nudity is also removed explain our efforts to keep our community in many cases but allowed for images of free from this kind of abusive language.” breastfeeding, art or medical conditions. Facebook said earlier this year it was “These standards are designed to create putting warnings on “graphic content,” an environment where people feel motivat- which would also be banned for users ed and empowered to treat each other under 18. In 2013, Facebook ended up ban- with empathy and respect,” said a blog post ning a beheading video after outrage fol- from Facebook global policy chief Monika lowed a lifting of the ban. Twitter mean- Bickert and deputy general counsel Chris while has become the latest online plat- Sonderby. form to ban “revenge porn,” or the posting “While our policies and standards them- of sexually explicit images of a person with- selves are not changing, we have heard out consent. from people that it would be helpful to Twitter faced threats after blocking provide more clarity and examples, so we accounts linked to supporters of the Islamic are doing so with today’s update.” State, but one study showed at least 46,000 The new guidelines say Facebook mem- Twitter accounts have been linked to the BEIJING: China’s Vice Premier Ma Kai (C-R) and German Vice Chancellor, Economy and Energy Minister Sigmar Gabriel (C-L) look at a robot arm bers should use their “authentic name,” a group. lifting a model car as they visit the booth of German software company SAP during their tour to open the CeBIT technology fair in Hanover yes- move that appears to head off criticism Facebook at the same time released its terday.—AFP from people who used stage or perform- report on government requests for user ance names instead of their legal name. In data in the second half of 2014, showing a October Facebook said it would ease its modest uptick to 35,051 from 34,946 in the China’s ambitious IT sector “real names” policy that prompted drag prior period. queen performers to quit the social net- “There was an increase in data requests work and sparked wider protests in the gay from certain governments such as India, community and beyond. and decline in requests from countries such lays claim to global role as the United States and Germany,” the ‘Risk of physical harm’ blog post said. Facebook’s new guidelines said it would The amount of content restricted for Beijing ready to lead world as tech superpower remove content, disable accounts and work violating local law increased by 11 percent with law enforcement “when we believe 9,707 cases from 8,774. “We saw a rise in HANOVER: China’s huge IT sector is out in force global brand.” models from abroad,” these days they “often go that there is a genuine risk of physical harm content restriction requests from countries in Germany this week, signalling to the world it beyond their foreign counterparts.” “They devel- or direct threats to public safety.” But it also like Turkey and Russia, and declines in is ready to not just copy but lead as a tech super- Imitate or innovate op apps further, adapt them to Chinese users pointed out “that something that may be places like Pakistan,” Facebook said. —AFP power. Bucking China’s economic slowdown, China has kickstarted many of its tech enter- and spawn their own innovations. Many young information and communication technology are prises by copying Western models and products, startups of the Internet economy have many booming in the world’s largest smartphone mar- and cheaply mass producing them for both new ideas.” ket, which also boasts the highest number of export and its huge domestic market. Nearly 500 He pointed to the wildly popular app WeChat Internet users. million smartphones will be sold this year in by Chinese social media giant Tencent. “It was “China is the second-biggest IT market in the China, about one third of global sales, and 85 originally created as a WhatsApp copy, but is world after the US, it’s very dynamic, it’s still percent will be made by Chinese companies, say now a social platform and a hotspot for e-com- developing,” said Angela Stanzel, China expert at market analysts IDC. merce, and therefore much more successful than the European Council on Foreign Relations. More than 680 million Chinese people will be the real thing.” “There’s a kind of start-up culture developing online in 2015, over double the number in the right now, an unlimited pool of young entrepre- US. Some Western countries resist opening their Market hurdles neurs, there are many reasons why China is doors to big Chinese players such as Huawei, Amid the Chinese IT boom, big Western play- attractive to Germany.” In the halls of Germany’s over fears of military links and industrial and ers grumble at restrictions to China’s massive CeBIT, a leading IT business fair, Chinese players other espionage. “If the Chinese side gains market. “Especially in IT, the Chinese govern- such as online merchant Alibaba, PC maker access to the data from sensors, for example in ment is currently setting up new hurdles,” said Lenovo and network supplier Huawei are show- cars, then this impacts the trade secrets and Gierow. “This mainly affects suppliers of security- ing off their latest software and hardware mar- patents of German companies,” said Hauke sensitive technologies, but also increasingly oth- vels. They are among more than 600 Chinese Gierow of Germany’s Mercator Institute for China er software and hardware suppliers” including firms that have set up under the motto Studies. “Because of these security concerns, Microsoft, Cisco and Apple. So, are the estab- “Innovation, Convergence, Cooperation” at many foreign companies are so far shying away lished tech giants doomed in the face of China’s CeBIT, the biggest-ever showing for an official from using Chinese Cloud and Big Data breakneck rise? Not just yet, say industry partner country at the three-decade-old providers.” Despite such fears, however, industri- observers who point out that so far the Chinese Hanover fair. al powers such as Germany would snub China at market has impressed with scale rather than Speaking at the opening ceremony, Chinese their peril, Stanzel said. quantum-leap innovation. Vice Premier Ma Kai said his country wants “to “We could ignore China, we could refuse to In terms of high-tech manufacturing industry, promote breakthroughs in technology in areas work with China,” she said. “I think the best way Germany remains a leader from whom China such as integrated circuits, the Internet of is to integrate China. So I think actually the CeBIT hopes to learn, said Stanzel. “I think the very Things, cloud computing, Big Data and the fifth is a very good way to do so... to see where there long-term advantage that we have and we will generation of mobile telephony.” are areas of cooperation.” continue to have is innovation. “It’s something China “is no longer the world’s factory,” said Jost Wuebbeke of the Mercator Institute said that you cannot copy-and-paste, like many other IDC analyst Kitty Fok. “China is a big enough that, while “many Chinese IT companies became things... You can buy innovative products, but market to allow a Chinese brand to become a so big because they successfully copied business you cannot buy being innovative.” —AFP PARIS: An employee supervises the transfer of the fuselage of a prototype of solar- powered plane Solar Impulse, which is to be exhibited at the Cite des Sciences et de l’Industrie, yesterday in Paris. — AFP Merkel urges closer tech Don’t want NSA to spy on your email? ties with IT giant China HANOVER: German Chancellor Angela Merkel Lenovo filled more than 3,000 square metres physical strength, the digital “revolution... liberates 5 things you can do urged closer high-tech cooperation with China as (30,000 square feet) of exhibition space. “China was the strength of the human brain”. she opened a major IT business fair where the known as a supplier of components and later as a “In the future... the machines must talk, the SAN FRANCISCO: More than half of Just 10 percent of those participating in Asian giant is the official partner country. supplier of hardware, smartphones, tablets and machines must think, and the machine is not going Americans are worried about the US govern- Pew’s survey said they use a search engine “German business values China not just as our also PCs,” said CeBIT spokesman Hartwig von Sass. to be supported by oil, by electricity, the machine ment’s digital spies prying into their emails, that doesn’t track their searching history. most important trade partner outside of Europe “Now China has numerous companies that have is going to be supported by data.” texts, search requests and other online infor- but also as a partner in developing sophisticated become world leaders... We see this as a shift on Strolling across the stage, he told his audience: mation, but few are trying to thwart the sur- SCRAMBLE YOUR EMAIL technologies,” she said. the world map: digitisation is going east.” “It’s not the technology that can change the world, veillance. That’s according to a new survey Encryption programs such as Pretty Good “Especially in the digital economy, German and The head of German IT industry group BITKOM, it’s the dreams behind the technology that change from Pew Research Center, released Monday. Privacy, or PGP, can make your email appear Chinese companies have core strengths... and Dieter Kempf, expressed awe at the scale of the the world.” He then demonstrated a new e-pay- A main reason for the inertia? Pew researchers indecipherable to anyone without the digital that’s why cooperation is a natural choice.” Merkel Chinese market. “This consumer market in China is ment system that uses facial recognition as a digi- found that a majority of those surveyed don’t key to translate the gibberish. This can help was speaking at the opening the CeBIT fair in the something we can barely comprehend, more than tal signature, saying he had used it to send a his- know about online shields that could help prevent highly sensitive financial and business western city of Hanover, where more than 600 1.2 billion people with significant pent-up demand toric Hanover postage stamp as a gift to the mayor boost privacy or believe it would be too diffi- information from getting swept up by hack- Chinese companies will exhibit their tech marvels for IT solutions, which is far beyond European of the host city. cult to avoid the government’s espionage. ers, as well as a government dragnet. Yet only this week, showcasing the country’s rise as an IT dimensions,” he told AFP. The choice of China as CeBIT partner country The poll questioned 475 adults from Nov 2 percent of the people surveyed by Pew used power. China’s information and communication The keynote speaker at the opening ceremony throws a spotlight on its huge Internet surveillance 26 to Jan 3 - about a year-and-a-half after con- PGP or other email encryption programs. technology has bucked the country’s wider slow- was China’s richest man, Jack Ma, head of online system dubbed the “Great Firewall of China”. fidential documents leaked by former down in economic growth and is booming in what merchant Alibaba-China’s answer to eBay and Human rights group Amnesty International National Security Agency contractor Edward CLOAK YOUR BROWSER is now the world’s biggest smartphone market Amazon-who shared his vision of the future in a protested outside the opening ceremony with sev- Snowden revealed the U.S. government has A privacy tool called Blur, made by Abine, with the highest number of Internet users. talk brimming with enthusiasm. eral dozen activists against China’s treatment of been monitoring a broad range of online enables its users to surf the Web without their For Germany, Europe’s top economy, the event Ma said that while previous industrial revolu- critics, including jailed Nobel Prize laureate Liu communications for years as part of its efforts activities being tracked. It also masks pass- aims to further cement business ties with fellow tions had relieved people of the need to use their Xiaobo.—AFP to diffuse terrorist threats. words and credit card information entered on export power China as both seek to adapt to the “It all boils down to people sort of feeling computers and mobile devices so they can’t sweeping digitisation of the world economy. like they have lost control over their data and be lifted from the databases of the websites Germany is already by far the biggest European their personal information,” Mary Madden, a that collect them. Blur charges $39 annually economic player in China. Two-way trade last year senior researcher for Pew, told The Associated for this level of protection. Privacy Badger reached 150 billion euros ($157 billion). Both coun- Press. “But at the same time, when we asked from the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a dig- tries have declared 2015 the year of their “innova- them if they would like to do more, folks ital rights group, offers a free way to block tion partnership”. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in a expressed that as an aspirational goal.” tracking of browsing activity. Only 5 percent video message praised Germany as “an Here are five steps you can take to be more of the Pew respondents used these kinds of industrial powerhouse and land of thinkers” and private online. tools. said he looked forward to more German-Chinese cooperation in “web-based, digital and intelligent STEALTHY SEARCHING CUT OUT THE INTERNET technologies”. He said both countries’ digital strate- Don’t want a digital dossier of your person- It might sound old-school, but if you want gies complement each other and that he hoped “to al interests to be stored and analyzed? Wean to share something really sensitive, meet face further strengthen our comprehensive strategic yourself from the most popular search to face. The Pew poll found 14 percent of partnership and embark together on a path of win- engines - Google, Bing and Yahoo. All of them respondents are choosing to speak in person win cooperation and joint prosperity in the world”. collect and dissect your queries to learn what more frequently rather than text, email or talk kinds of products and services might appeal on the phone because of the Snowden revela- ‘Digitisation going east’ to you so they can sell advertising targeted to tions. The almost three-decade old CeBIT once daz- your interests. Just because that trove of data zled consumers with gadgets but has been over- is meant to be used for commercial purposes GET SMARTER shadowed by big tech events in Las Vegas and doesn’t mean snoopers such as the NSA If you’re looking to become more literate Barcelona, leading it to focus on business users. couldn’t vacuum up the information, too, to about the ins and outs of digital privacy, two Last year IT professionals made up more than 90 find out more about you. A small search of the most comprehensive guides can be percent of the more than 200,000 visitors. engine called DuckDuckGo has been gaining found through the Electronic Frontier China’s huge showing “makes it the biggest and more fans with its pledge to never collect per- Foundation’s Surveillance strongest partner country presentation we’ve ever sonal information or track people entering Self-Defense site, https://ssd.eff.org/en , seen at CeBIT,” said top exhibition executive Oliver HANOVER: Visitors stand at the IBM booth during the opening day of the CeBIT technology fair queries on its site. and https://prism-break.org/en/ . —AP Frese. Its tech giants including Huawei, Xiaomi and in Hanover, central Germany yesterday. — AFP TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 HEALTH & SCIENCE Folic acid plus blood pressure drug lowers stroke risk

LOS ANGELES: People who took folic acid pressure but no history of stroke or heart between the two when it came to the risk of “The beneficial effect appeared to be said an accompanying editorial in JAMA by supplements along with a medication for attack, and was published in the Journal of major hemorrhagic stroke, heart attack, more pronounced in participants with low- Meir Stampfer and Walter Willett of the high blood pressure called enalapril, mar- the American Medical Association (JAMA). death, or complications. er folate levels.” Folic acid is found naturally Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health. keted in the US as Vasotec, were less likely to After a midpoint of 4.5 years of study, 2.7 The study, known as the China Stroke in leafy greens, fruits, nuts, beans and peas. “For many populations, achieving ade- have a stroke than people who took the percent of those in the enalapril-folic acid Primary Prevention Trial (CSPPT), “is the first “Large segments of the world’s population, quate levels from diet alone is difficult drug alone, researchers said Sunday. group had a stroke, compared to 3.4 per- large-scale randomized trial to test the potentially billions of people, including because of expense or availability. This The study was based on a pool of more cent in the enalapril group. hypothesis using individual measures of those living in northern China, Bangladesh study seems to support fortification pro- than 20,000 adults in China with high blood Researchers did not see any difference baseline folate levels,” said researchers. and Scandinavia have low levels of folate,” grams where feasible.” —AFP

Studies boost hopes for new class of cholesterol medicines

SAN DIEGO: New research boosts hope that Unquestionable signal a highly anticipated, experimental class of Side effects remain a question, though, cholesterol drugs can greatly lower the risk especially on thinking, confusion and memo- for heart attacks, death and other heart-relat- ry - problems the FDA has already voiced ed problems. The US government will decide concern about and asked the companies to this summer whether to allow two of these track. drugs on the market. The problems affected only 1 or 2 percent People taking one of these drugs had half of patients and may be temporary, but they the risk of dying or suffering a heart problem were twice as common among people tak- compared to others who were given usual ing one of the new drugs and need to be care - typically one of the statin drugs such closely monitored as studies continue, said as Lipitor or Zocor, doctors found. Many peo- Dr. Anthony DeMaria, a University of ple cannot tolerate statins or get enough California at San Diego heart specialist and help from them, so new medicines are badly past president of the American College of needed. Cardiology. As a patient facing potential side The results are “really impressive and very effects, “the last one I want” is one that encouraging” for the new drugs, said one affects the brain, he said. independent expert, Dr. Judith Hochman of Dr. Eric Topol, a cardiologist at Scripps NYU Langone Medical Center. Clinic in La Jolla, California, said the new The studies were published online results show “an unquestionable signal” of a Sunday by the New England Journal of potential safety issue. More side effects typi- Medicine and discussed at an American cally turn up once a drug is approved and College of Cardiology conference in San used in a wider population, he said. Diego. Two other heart experts - Drs. Neil Stone They are fresh analyses from older studies and Daniel Lloyd-Jones of Northwestern designed to look at how much the drugs University in Chicago - wrote in the medical lower cholesterol, so they can only suggest journal that “it would be premature to that the drugs also lower heart problems, endorse these drugs for widespread use” not prove that point. Definitive studies will until the definitive studies are done in a cou- take about two more years, so the federal ple of years. Other drugs that initially Food and Drug Administration will be decid- seemed good failed when put to the most ing the drugs’ fates with only results like this rigorous test, they wrote. in hand. Still, the results so far suggest that the The drugs are evolocumab, which Amgen drugs “appear to be on track” to be impor- CALIFORNIA: Rescued sea lion pups rest in a holding pen at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, yesterday, in Laguna Beach, Calif. Inc. wants to call Repatha, and alirocumab, tant new medicines, they wrote. Dr. Clyde Since January, more than 1,100 starving and sickly sea lion pups have washed up along California’s coast. Rescue centers have which Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Yancy, cardiology chief at Northwestern taken in about 800 but are stretched thin by the demand. —AP Sanofi SA have named Praluent. They lower University in Chicago and a former American LDL or bad cholesterol more powerfully and Heart Association president, agreed. in a different way than existing drugs, by “Science has revealed a brand new blocking PCSK9, a substance that interferes approach to treating cholesterol,” and there Starving sea lion pups with the liver’s ability to remove cholesterol is “reasonable enthusiasm” it will be a big from the blood. boon to patients, he said. —AP stranding on beaches More than 1,100 pups rescued since january

LAGUNA BEACH: The starving sea lion pup was warmer waters from this winter’s mild El Nino brought in by a police officer, three more came in so tiny that it looked like a rock at the base of the weather pattern are impacting the sea lion with an animal control team and the fifth was seaside cliff until it struggled to raise its head as birthing grounds along the Channel Islands off Slavik’s rescued pup that had been called in by a humans approached. It bleated weakly as volun- the Southern California coast. couple walking along beach. teer Brennan Slavik eased it into a crate for trans- The warm water is likely pushing prime sea port to a rescue center, where it peered from a lion foods - market squid, sardines and anchovies Crammed into every corner child’s playpen with woeful eyes made enormous - further north, forcing the mothers to abandon Harried volunteers moved urgently along a by an emaciated frame. their pups for up to eight days at a time in search narrow hallway between pens as they unloaded At almost a year, the pup weighed just 23 of sustenance. each one, wrapped it in a towel and performed a pounds - a third of what it should - and staff qui- battery of tests. Most of the animals were so etly took it to a private room, euthanized it and Desperation weak they barely resisted. moved on. The pups, scientists believe, are weaning Crates holding animals awaiting assessment It’s a scenario playing out daily in California themselves early out of desperation and setting were crammed into every corner, including the this year as rescue centers struggle to keep up out on their own despite being underweight and laundry room, as those already housed in com- with hundreds of sick and starving sea lion pups ill-prepared to hunt. Sea lions wouldn’t normally munal pens barked and bleated in a deafening washing up along the coast. More than 1,100 start showing up in large numbers until April or racket as mealtime approached. Each incoming TOKYO: Japan’s telecommunication giant KDDI and diagnosis kit maker pups have been rescued since January from May but this year, rescue centers began to get pup has its temperature taken and is weighed, Leisure display a blood dignosis kit and a smart phone displaying the result of beaches, but also from inside public restrooms, calls in December, said Matassa. “They’re leaving measured and given a blood sugar test before a user’s medical check-up in Tokyo yesterday. KDDI will start the self physical behind buildings and along railroad tracks. with a very low tank of gas and when they get the team decides if they can save it. examination service called “Sumaho de dock” (medical check up smart phone) It’s not unusual to have some sea lions wash over here, they’re showing up on the beach basi- Those that make the cut are tube-fed a gruel to detect lifestyle-related disease such as diabates from this summer. —AFP up each spring as the pups leave their mothers, cally ... starving to death,” said Justin Viezbicke, a of pureed herring, Pedialyte, vitamins and milk but so far, the number of stranded babies is five coordinator with the National Oceanic and three or four times a day after starting out with a times greater than in 2013, the worst season in Atmospheric Administration’s California simple broth of hydrating fluids and dextrose. recent memory. Stranding Network. For rescue centers like the Those that graduate to whole fish are playfully New sign-up under health care “These animals are coming in really desperate. one in Laguna Beach, that translates into round- called “feeders” and those that can once more They’re at the end of life. They’re in a crisis ... and the-clock, back-breaking work for dozens of vol- compete for fish tossed into a pool are called law gets lukewarm reception not all animals are going to make it,” said Keith A. unteers who’ve arrived from all over the US to “fighters.” The goal is to get the pups strong Matassa, executive director at the Pacific Marine help. The center in one of Southern California’s enough to swim free again - but the volunteers WASHINGTON: Several million people hit Baxter supports the overall goals of the Mammal Center, which is currently rehabilitating premiere beach communities has rescued more who nurse them back to health may never know with new federal fines for going without health law, but says the government 115 sea lion pups. than 213 pups since the beginning of the year if they make it in the wild. Only a handful will be health insurance are getting a second should also look at someone’s expenses - The situation is so bad that Sea World sus- and has treated ones that weighed as little as 14 fitted with expensive tracking devices. The rest chance to sign up, and that could ease the not just income - before assessing the fine. pended its sea lion show so it can focus on res- pounds at eight months old. are tagged with a number and fall off the radar sting of rising penalties for being unin- Penalties for being uninsured are going cue efforts. The theme park has treated 400 pups Pups that should be gaining 20 to 40 pounds unless they are rescued again. sured. up this year, to a minimum of $325 for the - more than twice the number it would care for in in a two-month period have put on just 2 “The tricky part is we’re putting them back But after the enrollment window full 12 months. That’s a significant increase a typical year - and constructed two temporary pounds, Matassa said. On a recent day, in the into the same environment that they just came reopened Sunday, it’s unclear how many from the $95 minimum in 2014. pools to house them. Scientists aren’t sure course of two hours, five suffering animals came from. And that’s going to be a challenge for know about the time-limited opportunity, The new sign-up opportunity runs what’s causing the crisis, but suspect that into the Pacific Marine Mammal Center. One was them,” Viezbicke said. —AP let alone are taking advantage of it. through April 30. To qualify, individuals Fines payable to the IRS are the stick have to certify to the behind the offer of taxpayer-subsidized pri- government that they meet certain con- vate insurance under President Barack ditions, including: They did not know or Aortic valve replacement beats no surgery at all Obama’s health care law. Virtually everyone understand that they were legally required in the country is now required to have cov- to have coverage until after open enroll- LOS ANGELES: A minimally invasive pro- and one that had balloon aortic valvulo- erage through an employer or a govern- ment officially ended Feb. 15. cedure to replace the aortic valve without plasty but no surgery. ment program, or by buying individual They owed a penalty for being unin- doing open heart surgery has better out- policies. sured in 2014. comes after five years than patients who First trial This is the first year fines are being col- Those requirements are for the 37 states did not have surgery at all, researchers said The study found that those who had lected from uninsured people the govern- served by the federal HealthCare.gov web- Sunday. TAVR “lived longer, with better symptom ment deems able to afford coverage. Tax site. Aortic stenosis is a common form of management, fewer hospital readmissions preparation company H&R Block says the States running their own insurance heart disease, in which the valve does not and better functional status.” penalty averages about $170 among its exchanges may have different rules and open fully and decreases blood flow from After five years, 28 percent of the TAVR affected customers. It usually is deducted deadlines. Penalties for 2014 are not the heart. Options for fixing it include group were still alive, compared to only 6.4 from a person’s tax refund. refundable. open heart surgery, minimally invasive percent of the standard therapy group. Those penalized are mainly the kind of The Obama administration acted after valve replacement by catheter, and insert- “This trial is the first-and will probably people the law was intended to help: low- Democratic lawmakers raised concerns. ing a catheter into the groin and inflating a be the only-randomized aortic stenosis tri- and middle-income workers who do not With open enrollment officially over, some- small balloon in the aortic valve to open it, al that includes a group of patients not have coverage on the job or are self- one who was uninsured and filed a tax known as balloon aortic valvuloplasty. treated with aortic valve replacement, employed. Roughly 4 million people are return after Feb. 15 would not have been In recent years, more promise has since these results will make it unethical to expected to pay fines, according to con- able to get coverage for 2015. That person been seen for the second option-a proce- treat severe aortic stenosis patients with gressional estimates. Many more will quali- would owe the penalty for 2014 and could dure known as transcatheter aortic valve medical therapy alone,” said study author fy for exemptions. get locked into a bigger fine for 2015. replacement (TAVR), for people who are Samir Kapadia, director of the Sones Travel agent Charles Baxter of Phoenix “Most people can assume that whatever elderly or too frail for open heart surgery. Cardiac Catheterization Laboratories at said his tax refund was reduced by $247 for they paid this year, next year they will pay Experts say TAVR may allow patients Cleveland Clinic. being uninsured in 2014. He had not heard twice that who are too frail for open heart surgery a Another study released at the ACC about the second chance to sign up for much or more,” said Rep. Lloyd Doggett, better quality of life than the standard conference showed promise for a new 2015 coverage. Baxter says he will take D-Texas. “Why pay what is in essence a therapy of balloon aortic valvuloplasty. device that helps surgeons prevent dan- another look now, but is not sure whether penalty, when you can be applying those MEXICO CITY: In this March 3, 2015 photo, Homero Fernandez The study published in The Lancet, and gerous debris from reaching the brain dur- he will opt to buy insurance. dollars to protect your family?” warms a pipe with one hand as he holds in the other a small released simultaneously at the American ing transcatheter aortic valve replacement, Penalties for uninsured Sign-up period amount of marijuana which he’ll introduce into the heated College of Cardiology annual conference resulting in better cognitive scores for in San Diego, California, followed 358 patients who underwent the procedure. Much of his income goes to help take The administration is publicizing the tube and cover, as he demonstrates different varieties of mari- care of his mother, who has health prob- special sign-up period as tax filing season juana in Mexico City. Fernandez, a 29-year-old event promoter, patients with severe aortic stenosis for five A small fraction of the tiny particles years. that are dislodged from the valve during lems. “I may have to see if any of the health continues. For customers who paid a fine, teamed up with about a dozen people to form a pot club. “It The patients’ average age was 83, and the operation may travel to the brain. This care costs have changed, to where I might major tax preparation companies are noti- comes out much cheaper than paying for even regular pot ... they were evenly divided into two groups: risks causing a stroke or a more subtle loss be able to squeeze it in,” he said. “But so far, fying them about the second chance to get and the quality is much higher,” said Fernandez. —AP one that had TAVR to replace their valve in mental abilities. —AFP it’s not looking like it.” coverage. —AP TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 HEALTH & SCIENCE Women are key in tackling disaster: UN officials

SENDAI: Women are far more improving gender equality is key to to die in a disaster, according to UN asters,” United Nations Development “It’s a huge issue” and has to “be Abe said that even in developed coun- exposed to disasters than men given saving lives. Population Fund account executive Programme Administrator Helen Clark integrated in the Sendai outcome”. tries like Japan, much more needed to their frontline roles in the home and in Globally, women and children are Lamar Dawson. told AFP on the sidelines of a once-in- be done to get women more involved healthcare, the UN says, arguing that up to 14 times more likely than men “Women are more exposed to dis- a-decade UN conference on disaster Caring for families in reducing the impact of disasters. risk reduction in Japan. Remi Sogunro, who represents the “In all regions of Japan, it was pre- “There is a range of reasons,” said United Nations Population Fund in dominantly men who participated in Clark, a former New Zealand Prime Liberia, said women bore the brunt disaster risk reduction drills,” he told Minister. “They may be trapped at not only of natural disasters like that the conference, which opened just home, they may be caring for sick or unfolding in Vanuatu, but in human days after Japan marked the fourth disabled family members, young chil- catastrophes like the Ebola outbreak anniversary of the 2011 quake-tsuna- dren. in West Africa. mi that ravaged the northeast coast. “In some societies where these dis- “Women are caregivers at home, “However, if a massive earthquake asters hit, the culture may be that the and when their... families are sick, they were to strike during the day, most of woman doesn’t leave the home. So if take care of them,” he said. the people at home would be women. she can’t leave the home how can she Around 25,000 people are known A woman’s perspective is therefore escape?” Clark was speaking as aid to have been infected with Ebola since essential for community disaster risk agencies and governments scrambled the latest outbreak began in reduction efforts,” he said. to get help to Vanuatu, where dozens December 2013. Around 10,000 of But Rachel Kyte, Vice President of are feared dead after the Pacific nation them have died. the World Bank, said even in a forum was raked by a huge cyclone on In Liberia, one of the worst-hit like the Sendai conference, where par- Friday. countries, thousands of people were ticipants agree on the need to A state of emergency was put in infected including 300 health workers, empower women, there are few in place over the weekend amid reports said Sogunro. evidence. entire villages had been “blown away”. “Half of (the health workers) died. On Saturday she had 11 meetings. The calamity in the Pacific gave Most of them are nurses, some of “In nine of those meetings I was the greater resonance to the Sendai meet- them are midwives, a few of them are only woman,” she said. ing, which runs until Wednesday, senior medical doctors. Many of these “I really think this has to change,” where Clark said policymakers must were women,” he said. Kyte said. “There are not enough work on improving the lot of women. “The women were trying to help women here, and women’s perspec- “The issues will (be) how we make the country to stop the Ebola virus tive is not well enough integrated. sure that women are fully engaged, and they died in the course of duty. So “I can’t think of a community... and (the conference should) argue for you can see why it’s really very impor- where it isn’t the women who know women’s empowerment and full tant to talk about women in the Ebola exactly what’s going on. “So not to TOKYO: UN ecretary General Ban Ki-moon, left, and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attend a sym- equality, because why should they forefront,” he said. have women in the rooms here is posium of the 70th anniversary f the United Nations at the UN University in Tokyo, yesterday. —AP suffer?” she said. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo absurd,” she said. —AFP Scientists cheered by Chinese man wins payout birth of Galapagos tortoises in wild over panda bite: lawyer

QUITO: For the first time in a century, babies of the to eradicate rats that infested Pinzon and other endangered Pinzon giant tortoise have been born islands in the archipelago after being introduced BEIJING: A Chinese man who sued local govern- revenue in several parts of China and for Beijing, The nature conservation organisation WWF in the wild in the Galapagos islands, scientists said. long ago by passing ships. The rats prevented the ment officials over an attack by a wild panda has which capitalises on the global fascination with says on its website: “As cuddly as they may look, An expedition in 1970 found only 19 adult tor- reproduction by tortoises and other species. won more than $80,000 in compensation, his the animals by renting them to foreign zoos. a panda can protect itself as well as most other toises on the archipelago’s Pinzon island, averag- “Finding the six baby tortoises tells us that the lawyer said yesterday.The animals are renowned They have been known to attack humans, bears,” using its heavy weight, strong jaw mus- ing 70 years old, so scientists removed them to process of eradicating rats succeeded,” he said. for their lovable appearance but despite their including in 2008 when a panda mauled a 20- cles and large molar teeth. It cautions: “Although start a captive breeding program on Santa Cruz “We have begun to see that the ecosystem has placid, bamboo-chewing image they are mem- year-old man who climbed into its enclosure at a used mainly for crushing bamboo, a panda bite island. The program produced juveniles that were begun to restore itself” on Pinzon, Rueda added. “It bers of the bear family and have a fearsome bite. zoo in southern China. can be very nasty.” —AFP transplanted back to the island, which is the only is a process that takes a long time. But the first step The animal wandered into Liziba village, in place the species is found. is the birth of tortoises in their natural habitat, the northwestern province of Gansu, where local Danny Rueda, who is in charge of conservation which a century ago did not happen.” officials trying to capture it chased it onto Guan and restoration of ecosystems in the Galapagos, The Galapagos, an Ecuadorean territory in the Quanzhi’s land, the Lanzhou Evening News told The Associated Press that in December six Pacific about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) from reported. “I saw a panda jump out in front of me, infant Pinzons were found to have been born on the mainland, was declared a World Heritage Site its body completely covered in mud,” he told the the island. by UNESCO in 1978 because of its unique land newspaper. The creature bit him in the leg and He said there are now 650 juvenile and adult and marine animals and vegetation. That flora only released its grip when another villager cov- tortoises on Pinzon. Rueda said the reintroduction and fauna helped inspire Charles Darwin’s theory ered its head with a coat, the report said, and of the tortoise was helped by the 2012 campaign of evolution. —AP the incident in March last year left Guan with injuries requiring seven hours of surgery. The panda escaped. Uganda hit by aid threat over Guan’s son sued local forestry officials and the nearby Baishuijiang National Nature Reserve, medical ‘brain drain’ case which is home to more than 100 wild pandas. Following “negotiations”, officials agreed to pay KAMPALA: Uganda yesterday stood by plans to Uganda’s health sector every year. compensation of 520,000 yuan ($83,000), his send more than 240 of its health workers to the “It is extremely premature for the Belgians to lawyer Wang Chaohui told AFP. Guan is “satisfied Caribbean despite a Belgian threat to cut 11 mil- cut aid,” Ugandan foreign ministry spokesman Fred with the amount”, which will cover his medical lion euros in aid. Opolot told AFP. “If they engage us, we can bills, he said, adding that he may need further Last week Belgium’s cooperation minister, enlighten them on what formed our decision. We operations. Alexander De Croo, said his country was suspend- believe they will reverse their decision,” he added. The giant panda’s natural habitat mostly lies ing a transfer of development money destined for Opolot said the export of health workers was “a in mountainous southwestern China. They have the east African nation’s health sector. good policy for the medical fraternity in Uganda,” a notoriously low reproductive rate and are The Belgian minister said the expatriation of saying it would also “address the unemployment under pressure from factors such as habitat loss. the health workers-branded by activists in Uganda problems.” The number of wild giant pandas rose nearly as a state-sanctioned brain-drain-”would consider- Officials have said the scheme is merely part of 17 percent over the decade to 2013 to reach ably weaken Uganda’s health system.” Uganda’s bilateral cooperation with Trinidad and 1,864, state media cited an official survey data as The government scheme has already been Tobago, from which Uganda has also benefitted- saying this month, with a government agency criticised by the United States, which gives with aid such as oil and gas industry training and crediting conservation measures for the Turkeys are pictured at a turkey farm near Sauk Centre, Minn. A dangerous strain of $400 million (357 million euros) in aid to financial support for its police. —AFP increase. Pandas are a major generator of tourist avian influenza has turned up in turkey flocks in Minnesota and Missouri.—AP WHAT’S ON TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015

Lulu opens new Hypermarket in Jubail; store count reaches 114

etail major Lulu Group has opened a new hyper- industrial hub of the Eastern province. Abdulaziz Al Saud, and we are fully committed to contin- tination for both locals and the large expatriate commu- market in Jubail, industrial city in the eastern uing our forward march,” said Yusuff Ali M.A. after the nity residing here. The chain records a whopping 710,000 Rprovince of Saudi Arabia, further boosting its retail International standard inauguration. He also said that the Kingdom will see sev- plus footfall every day and is the preferred destination presence in the Kingdom. The new store was officially The new hypermarket will offer over 240,000 square en more hypermarkets coming up in the next 22 months for diverse and multi-ethnic shoppers. The Lulu philoso- inaugurated by Badr bin Mohammed Al-Otaishan, feet of International standard shopping experience to in various locations across the country, wherein phy has always been ‘good quality products at fair prices Governor of Jubail in the presence of Prince Saud Bin the residents of Jubail and its adjoining areas and will Dammam will be the next in line for opening. with friendly service. Abdulla bin Abdul Aziz and Sheikh Fahad Al Muqbil. showcase a fresh food section comprising fruit, vegeta- This latest hypermarket from Lulu is expected to Lulu Hypermarket which employs more than 32,000 Several high ranking officials from various government bles, dairy products, meat, fish and a huge area dedicat- become the latest shopping destination of choice for res- people from 38 countries in its various locations has a departments, representatives from local business com- ed to department store which includes high fashion gar- idents of Jubail. In addition, and in true tradition of Lulu very clear human resource development policy especial- munity and prominent citizens also attended the open- ments, electronics, IT products and home appliances. stores across the Gulf, the hypermarket will feature the ly when it comes to providing training and job opportu- ing ceremony. The hypermarket also houses Sparkys for family enter- widest choice of world class brands at the fairest prices nities to the Saudi youth. Lulu employs Saudis in almost Yusuff Ali MA, Managing Director, Saifee T Rupawala, tainment, International Jewellery chains like Malabar and also offers a whole world of shopping with a good all categories and continuously supports Government’s CEO, Ashraf Ali MA, Executive Director, Althaf MM, Gold, Joyalukkas, Giordano for fashion ware, food court selection of brands and product lines under one roof. vision of providing jobs to the local youth. Director, Shehim Mohammed, Regional Director - Central consisting of authentic Indian fine dining, Arabic and Lulu’s winning formula of value for money quality shop- “Providing job opportunities to local youth is one of Province, MuhamedBasheer, Regional Director - Eastern Filipino cuisine, Fast food counters, Coffee shops, per- ping will be a matter of delight for the residents of Jubail our core focus areas and we will continue to recruit more province and other senior officials of Lulu Group were fume shops, Mobile, watches and cosmetics, gift and who will cherish the pleasurable shopping experience nationals, the majority of whom are women work force also present on the occasion. accessories apart from ATM and money exchanges. and the economy it offers. into our operations in different categories from frontline A large number of local and expat crowd were anx- “We are very clear in our approach to expansion in the sales staff to technical and managerial positions. With oil iously waiting for the grand inauguration in the hyper- Kingdom and I am very confident that this great country Preferred destination price showing positive growth and recession is thing of market premises and to grab attractive inaugural offers. will further prosper under the visionary leadership of With 3 stores in Riyadh, 1 in Al Khobar and seven past, we see tremendous development taking place in The new hypermarket which is 5th in the Kingdom is Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Commissionaires in Aramco in its entity, Lulu has firmly Gulf economies and we intend to play our part in the conveniently located at King Faisal Street in the Jubail Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Muqrin bin established itself as one of the most preferred retail des- growth process,” added Yusuff Ali.

British Business Forum announcements ritish Business Forum (BBF) will have March Members Meeting at Costa Del Sol Hotel on March 18 and BShukri Salman will be the speaker at the event. Design and Construction Group of BBF will be meeting at Al Hamra Tower (Floor 25) on March 23 and Saeed Ziaie will be the speaker. Education and Training Group of BBF will be meeting at Movenpick Hotel, Salmiya on 30 March con- vened by Dr Zeina Nehme.

Statement from the Embassy of India he Embassy of India, Kuwait in association with the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Tis organizing an ‘Indian Food, Herbal and Handicrafts Exhibition’ at the KCCI’s Exhibition Hall - IDAK, FOKE hold dental camp Ground Floor, (Address: Commercial Area no 9, Al- Shuhadaa St, Kuwait City), on Wednesday, 18 March 2015 ndian Dentists Alliance in Kuwait (IDAK), the association of expatriate dentists of Indian origin and Friends of Kannur Expatriates Association (FOKE) conducted a dental camp and from 11:00 am - 8:00 pm. The inauguration ceremony will seminar at the FOKE auditorium in Mangaf on March 13. The event with over a hundred participants was formally inaugurated by Dr Prathap Unnithan, executive committee member be held at 11:00 am. Iof IDAK, who then conducted the seminar on Oral Hygiene Tips and First Aid in Dental Trauma’. Dr Niveditha, Dr Shekar and Dr Prashanthy of IDAK also rendered their valuable servic- A large variety of Indian food products including es to the FOKE members. Ready-to-Eat food, Indian snacks, spices, Indian tea, as well as Herbal products and Handicrafts will be displayed at the exhibition. For further information, Commercial Thevalakara new office bearers TECAL Kuwait to Section of the Embassy may kindly be contacted on Tel: 22571193, 22528358 and 22550171, Fax. No: 22525811 and Email: [email protected]. hevalakara Christian Kuttaima Kuwait, an elected. The new selected members are as follows: hold spectrum The Embassy of India, Kuwait takes this opportunity to umbrella fellowship of the Christian Churches Geevarghese Vaidyan (President), KG Varghese (Vice overnment Engineering College Thrissur is the second oldest invite Kuwaitis, Indians and nationals of other foreign Thevalakara, celebrated its 1st Anniversary in president), Thampi Lukose (General Secretary), Shinu T engineering college established in Kerala, and the first engi- countries residing in Kuwait to visit the Indian Food, Kuwait on 25th February 2015 at Olive Auditorium Ommen Vaidyan (Joint Secretary), Koshy Vaidyan neering college after the formation of Kerala state. It is affiliat- Herbal and Handicrafts Exhibition on 18 March 2015 from chaired by President Marykutty Ommen. During the (Treasurer), and Jacob Vaidyan (Joint Secretary). G ed to the University of Calicut. The Alumni’s Kuwait Chapter is called 11:00 am to 8:00 pm at the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce meeting, new office bearers for the year of 2015 were Eleven executive members were also selected. TECAL Kuwait was established in the year 1989. and Industry, Kuwait. Dr Radhakrishnan former Director, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and Dr Tessy Thomas, Project Director for missile KGA Football Festival systems under Defense Research and Development Organization What’s On - Submission Guidelines are some of the eminent personalities that graduated from our alma mater. Dr Tessy is the first woman scientist to head a missile project Tournament in India. All photos submitted for What’s On TECAL KUWAIT provides all its members working or residing in Kuwait with rewarding connections to the College and to fellow alum- should be minimum 200dpi. he much awaited 6th edition of KGA tives have headed the KIFF Federation. Those ni. It has stood with its sister alumni chapters in Kuwait in times of cri- Articles must be in plain text and Football Festival 7-a-side Tournament is to wishing to field more than one team please sis to its motherland. should include name and phone Tbe held on Friday, 27th March 2015 at the contact the organizers. The draw for the KGA To commemorate the Silver Jubilee of TECAL KUWAIT, the chapter Al-Bayan Stadium, under the auspices of Kuwait tournament is scheduled on 20th March 2015 is organizing an event called SPECTRUM on 20th March 2015 at numbers. Articles and photos that Indian Football Federation from 6:30 am (during UG tournament second game - lemon Radisson Blu. Professor Krishnakumar, Principal, Thrissur Engineering fail to meet these requirements will onwards. The event coincides with Kuwait Goan break). We look forward to your support and College will be the keynote speaker and Dr Ali YahiaBumajdad, not be published. Association’s 10 years anniversary. Founded in presence for the tournament with 16 KIFF affili- Director, Electron Microscopy, Kuwait University is the guest of honor. 2005, Kuwait Goan Association is a formidable ated teams participating and Indian Football V S K Shenoy, Workshop Facilitator and Trainer will be holding an interactive workshop on personality development. The event will be Please send them to football association involved in sports and cul- Referees Federation Association [IFRA] officiat- attended by students of Academic Excellence from all Indian Schools [email protected] tural activities among the Indian expatriate ing the football matches. For more info, email: in Kuwait; along with their respective Principals and Head of Science community. It has organized and also won sev- [email protected], or contact Mob: Departments. The program will be graced by Sunil Jain, the eral tournaments for KGA, and KGA representa- 99695677/99544942/99865349 Ambassador of India to Kuwait. WHAT’S ON TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015

GUST celebrates English Day

ulf University for Science and Technology Grant Butler, director of the British Council, opened through fairyland as the frame on which to hang vari- (GUST) celebrated its sixth annual English Day the event. He stated, “English is spoken at a useful level ous English-language activities, including interactive Gearlier this month. Each year the English by some 1.75 billion people worldwide - that’s one in language games, readings in literature, songs, films, Department hosts the event to encourage more inter- every four. By 2020, the British Council forecast that booth-displays of literary figures or famous linguists, est in the English language. two billion people will be using it - or learning to use it. quizzes, spelling bees, costume parades and a graffiti Dr Ali Ansari, dean of the College of Arts and English makes a significant contribution to sustainable wall. Creativity, celebration and enjoyment are the Sciences, said, “The English Department is an active global development. It eases trade between countries keynotes of the day, and English, as the pre-eminent department in research and in service to the commu- that do not share a common language. It is used as a global communicative language, the medium for all.” nity through poetry competitions, readings, and semi- language of convenience, facilitating dialogue and Activities included interactive DVD games promot- nars. The feather in their hat is English Day.” building trust where an understanding of diverse posi- ing the works of Jane Austen and Emily Bronte, along This year’s theme was “a journey through fairyland.” tions is crucial. It is the UK’s greatest gift to the world with other booths devoted to Noam Chomsky and The event was launched with a parade of costumed and the world’s common language.” Mary Shelly. Attendees could test their language skills students dressed as prominent characters from The day-long event was full of games, plays, and by playing Scrabble or decoding clues in a scavenger famous plays and books such as Titania from hands-on activities. hunt. Students presented adaptations of Hamlet, Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Dr Piers Smith, head of the English Department, Macbeth, the Importance of Being Earnest, and Sir Tinkerbell from Peter Pan. said, “English Day uses the theme of journeying Gawain. IDF Kuwait holds Oration Award event

ndian Doctors Forum (IDF), Kuwait added another feather to its cap by conducting suc- Icessfully the 6th KMA-IDF Oration Award event on 14th March 2015 at Regency hotel. IDF a social organization affiliated to Kuwait Medical Association (KMA) and registered with Indian Embassy, has carved a niche for itself by its services to the community in the form of medical camps for poor people, seminars for public and meet the specialist programs. It also conducts KMA - IDF oration every two years. The IDF selects an Indian eminent doctor who is practicing in India and has significant contribution to the scientific lit- erature in the form of publication of papers in peer reviewed International medical journals. The IDF has honored five eminent Indian physi- cians with IDF Oration award since its inception. The recipients of the award deliver a scientific talk related to their lifetime work during the award cer- emony. The past recipients of the awards include Prof Chandy (stem cell research), Dr Mohammad Khurro (non A non B Hepatitis in Kashmir), Dr Ramachandran (Diabetes), Dr Talwar (Cardiology) and Dr Nageshwar Reddy (Gastroenterology). The Oration talks delivered by these eminent physicians were reflective of the high standard of medicine practiced in India and the world class competence of these eminent Indian physicians. This year the IDF selected Padmashri Dr V Mohan, a world renowned diabetologist and Director of Dr V Mohan Diabetes specialties center, Chennai and Director of Madras Diabetes Research Foundation as the recipient of the 6th KMA-IDF Oration award.

Diabetes and heart diseases The evening started with the audience paying respect to the national anthems of Kuwait and India. Dr Vivek Wani, Vice President of IDF wel- comed the Oration speaker Padmashri Dr V Mohan, dignitaries and the audience. Shubhashish Goldar, Deputy Chief of Mission of Embassy of India in his tion, establishment of 20 centers of diabetes care in Canada and Joslin Diabetes Center Harvard youth in the economically resurgent India the dia- as a model for many developing countries. felicitation speech addressed the burning issue of India and abroad, establishment of Madras University USA gave an introduction to the oration betes prevalence has increased to nearly 20 per- His in depth knowledge of diabetes, extensive diabetes and heart diseases in Indian population in Diabetes Research Foundation, authorship of more subject of diabetes. cent in urban population and to 10 percent in rural field work and publication of the findings of his Kuwait and commended the IDF for its community than 900 scientific articles and guest lectures on population among persons aged 20 and above. He field work in the prestigious international medical service. Dr Adel Al-Khader, Dean of the Faculty of the subject of diabetes in scores of countries. He Working together showed by his studies how including simple walk- journals made his Oration talk spellbinding. The Medicine, University of Kuwait appreciated the IDF has received more than 130 awards for his contri- Then came the moment every physician was ing in their daily routine could reduce prevalence of audience included apart from the dignitaries men- for arranging such scientific activities and high- bution to the field of diabetes including the presti- waiting for. Dr Mohan started his oration talk first diabetes among the population. tioned above and the doctor members of IDF, high lighted the problem of diabetes in Kuwait. Dr gious Dr B C Roy award by Medical Council of India, by thanking the IDF and KMA for the honor. The ranking officials of the Ministry of Health Kuwait, Mohammad Al-Mutairi, President of KMA and co- Basantidevi Amirchand award by Indian Council of subject of his Oration talk was ‘Prevention of dia- Innovative use eminent consultants of private and government host of the KMA-IDF Oration award event men- Medical Research (ICMR) and the civilian award of betes is possible but we all have to work together”. He described the planning and implementing sectors. tioned his recent visit to India to attend a confer- Padmashri award by Government of India. Quoting extensively from his studies he highlight- of Chunampet Rural Diabetes Prevention project Dr Ananth Priya, Joint Cultural Secretary of IDF, ence in which he observed that the cardiac prob- Dr Mohammad Al-Mutairi the President of KMA, ed the steadily increasing prevalence of diabetes with the help of local population, Indian Space compeered the program flawlessly . Dr Senthil and lems and their magnitudes were similar in India Dr Vinod Grover the President of IDF presented the among all social strata in India. He highlighted the Research Organization and World Diabetes Dr Manish Rizwani web managers of IDF took care and Kuwait. He called for rigorous measures to con- 6th KMA-IDF Oration award to Dr Mohan. On role of sedentary lifestyle and food habits that Foundation Denmark to screen, detect and treat of audiovisual aspects of the program. The office trol the problem of diabetes. behalf of IDF he was also offered a token cash prize included fast foods and high calorie drinks as diabetes and its complications at the doorsteps of bearers of IDF, Dr Grace Alex, Dr Sunil Yadav and Dr Dr Vinod Grover, President of IDF gave a brief by Dr Samir Humad and Dr Nazim Parker, the treas- important risk factors for high prevalence of dia- the patient. Innovative use of telemedicine to diag- Sunil Kodali took care of all the guests. Dr Jaffer Ali account of the academic and professional achieve- urers of IDF. betes found in Indian immigrants in US, Europe and nose and treat the rural population who otherwise Ismail the dynamic Secretary of the IDF proposed a ments of Dr Mohan. The highlights of Dr Mohan’s Dr Waleed Al-Dahi, Consultant Endocrinologist the Middle East. However because of adoption of have no access to medical care of high standard vote of thanks. The program ended with a healthy achievements include gold medal in MD examina- of Mubarak Hospital, Fellow Royal college of similar food habits and sedentary lifestyles by the have made the Chunampet Rural diabetes project dinner served by Regency hotel. TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 TV PROGRAMS

13:25 How Tech Works 13:05 Extreme Close-Up 13:50 X-Machines 13:35 THS 14:40 Food Factory 14:30 Style Star 15:05 How It’s Made 15:00 Keeping Up With The 15:30 Invent It Rich Kardashians 01:45 The Wild Life Of Tim 16:20 Invent It Rich 16:00 Keeping Up With The 00:00 Wild Russia Faulkner 17:10 How Do They Do It? Kardashians 01:00 Animal Intervention 01:00 Good Morning America 02:15 The Wild Life Of Tim 17:35 How Do They Do It? 17:00 Giuliana & Bill 02:00 Armageddon Outfitters 03:00 Supernatural Faulkner 18:00 Through The Wormhole With 18:00 Christina Milian Turned Up 03:00 Aftermath 04:00 Defiance 02:40 Tanked Morgan Freeman 19:00 E!ES 04:00 Animal Impact 05:00 Good Morning America 03:35 Secret Creatures Of Jao 18:50 How It’s Made 20:00 Fashion Bloggers 05:00 Alaska Wing Men 07:00 Emmerdale 04:00 Secret Creatures Of Jao 19:15 How It’s Made 20:30 Fashion Bloggers 06:00 Doomsday Preppers 07:30 Coronation Street 04:25 The Wild Life Of Tim 19:40 Food Factory 21:00 House Of DVF 07:00 Wild Sri Lanka 09:00 Switched At Birth Faulkner 20:05 Food Factory 22:00 E! News 08:00 Wild Russia 10:00 Emmerdale 04:50 The Wild Life Of Tim 20:30 Game Changers 23:00 Kourtney And Khloe Take 09:00 Animal Intervention 10:30 Coronation Street Faulkner 20:55 Game Changers 10:00 Armageddon Outfitters 11:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 05:15 Treehouse Masters 21:20 Machines Of Glory 11:00 Mad Scientists 12:00 Rake 06:02 Call Of The Wildman 22:10 How Do They Do It? 11:30 Mad Scientists 13:00 Twisted 06:25 Call Of The Wildman 22:35 How Do They Do It? 12:00 Beyond Magic with DMC 14:00 Live Good Morning America 06:49 Secret Creatures Of Jao 23:00 Game Changers 13:00 Rescue Ink 16:00 Switched At Birth 07:12 Secret Creatures Of Jao 14:00 Expedition Wild 17:00 Rake 23:25 Game Changers 00:05 Chopped 07:36 Steve Irwin’s Wildlife 23:50 Machines Of Glory 15:00 Apocalypse: The Second 18:00 Twisted Warriors 00:55 Grill It! With Bobby Flay World War 19:00 Switched At Birth 08:00 Steve Irwin’s Wildlife 01:20 Amazing Wedding Cakes 16:00 World’s Toughest Fixes 20:00 Rake Warriors 02:10 Barefoot Contessa - Back 17:00 Air Crash Investigation 21:00 Twisted 08:25 Too Cute! To Basics 18:00 Breakout 22:00 Supernatural 09:15 Secret Creatures Of Jao 02:35 Barefoot Contessa - Back 19:00 Apocalypse: The Second 23:00 Defiance 09:45 Secret Creatures Of Jao To Basics World War 03:00 Jenny Morris Cooks 10:10 Call Of The Wildman 00:00 Violetta 20:00 World’s Toughest Fixes Morocco 11:05 Gator Boys 00:45 The Hive 21:00 Air Crash Investigation 03:25 Jenny Morris Cooks 12:00 Too Cute! 00:50 Art Attack 22:00 Breakout Morocco 12:55 Secret Creatures Of Jao 01:15 Art Attack 23:00 Mad Scientists 03:50 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 00:00 Shooter 13:25 Secret Creatures Of Jao 01:40 Jungle Junction 23:30 Mad Scientists 04:15 Chopped 02:15 Red Dragon 13:50 Treehouse Masters 01:50 Jungle Junction 05:05 Rachael vs. Guy: Celebrity 04:30 Plunkett & Macleane 14:45 The Wild Life Of Tim 02:05 Jungle Junction Coo 06:15 Knockout Faulkner 02:15 Jungle Junction 05:50 Siba’s Table 08:00 Ninja: Shadow Of A Tear 15:15 The Wild Life Of Tim 02:30 Violetta 06:10 Sweet Genius 10:00 Babylon A.D Faulkner 03:10 The Hive 07:00 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 12:00 The Recruit 15:40 Tanked 03:20 Art Attack 07:25 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 14:00 Knockout 16:35 Secret Creatures Of Jao 03:45 Art Attack 00:30 The Daily Show With Jon 07:50 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 16:00 Ninja: Shadow Of A Tear 17:05 Secret Creatures Of Jao 04:10 Jungle Junction Stewart 08:15 Chopped 18:00 Crimson Tide 17:30 Sharks Under Glass 04:25 Jungle Junction 01:00 Last Week Tonight With John 09:05 Barefoot Contessa - Back 20:00 Babylon A.D 18:25 Treehouse Masters 04:35 Jungle Junction Oliver To Basics 22:00 Red 2 19:20 Secret Life Of Pets 04:45 Jungle Junction 01:30 Girls 09:30 Farm Kings 19:50 Secret Life Of Pets 05:00 Art Attack 02:00 Silicon Valley 10:20 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 20:15 Tanked 05:25 Art Attack 03:00 Hot In Cleveland 10:45 Easy Chinese 21:10 Queens Of The Savannah 05:50 Mouk 03:30 Melissa & Joey 11:10 Reza, Spice Prince Of India 22:05 Treehouse Masters 06:00 Kim Possible 04:00 Community 11:35 The Big Eat... 23:00 Secret Life Of Pets 06:25 Binny And The Ghost 04:30 The Tonight Show Starring 12:00 Chopped 00:15 Red Dragon-18 23:30 Secret Life Of Pets 06:50 Girl Meets World Jimmy Fallon 12:50 Siba’s Table 02:30 Plunkett & Macleane-PG15 23:55 Zombie Sharks 07:15 H2O: Just Add Water 05:30 My Name Is Earl 13:15 Guy’s Big Bite 04:15 Knockout-PG15 07:40 Jessie 06:00 Til Death 13:40 Guy’s Big Bite 06:00 Ninja: Shadow Of A Tear- 08:05 Wizards Of Waverly Place 06:30 My Boys 14:05 Guy’s Grocery Games PG15 08:30 Wizards Of Waverly Place 07:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 14:55 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 08:00 Babylon A.D-PG15 08:55 Hannah Montana 08:00 Community 15:20 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 10:00 The Recruit-PG15 09:20 Hannah Montana 08:30 My Name Is Earl 15:45 Rachael vs. Guy: Celebrity 12:00 Knockout-PG15 09:45 Suite Life On Deck 09:00 Hot In Cleveland Coo 09:30 Two And A Half Men 14:00 Ninja: Shadow Of A Tear- 00:00 Beat My Build 10:10 Suite Life On Deck RED2 ON OSN MOVIES ACTION HD 16:35 Chopped 10:00 Two And A Half Men PG15 00:50 Valentine Warner Eats 10:35 Good Luck Charlie 17:25 Jenny Morris Cooks 10:30 My Boys 16:00 Crimson Tide-PG15 03:40 Super Saver Showdown Scandinavia 11:00 Good Luck Charlie 15:00 Gravity-PG15 14:00 Badges Of Fury-PG15 Morocco 11:00 The Tonight Show Starring 18:00 Babylon A.D-PG15 04:30 Cake Boss 01:15 Come Dine With Me 11:25 American Dragon 17:00 Escape From Polygamy- 16:00 The Numbers Station-PG15 17:50 Guy’s Big Bite Jimmy Fallon 20:00 Red 2-PG15 05:00 Sister Wives 02:05 Masterchef: The 11:50 American Dragon PG15 17:30 The Wolverine-PG15 18:15 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 12:00 Til Death 22:00 47 Ronin-PG15 06:00 17 Kids And Counting Professionals 12:15 Kim Possible 18:30 Stalingrad-PG15 19:45 Snowpiercer-PG15 18:40 Siba’s Table 12:30 Community 06:25 World’s Worst Mum 02:55 Antiques Roadshow 12:40 Kim Possible 21:00 Prisoners-PG15 22:00 Filth-R 19:05 The Big Eat... 13:00 My Name Is Earl 07:15 Say Yes To The Dress ‚Äì 03:50 Come Dine With Me 13:05 Good Luck Charlie 23:30 Killer Reality-PG15 19:30 Chopped 13:30 My Boys Bridesmaids 04:15 Rachel’s Favourite Food For 13:30 I Didn’t Do It 20:20 Guy’s Grocery Games 14:00 Melissa & Joey 07:40 Little People, Big World Living 13:50 Cars Toons 21:10 Rachael vs. Guy: Celebrity 14:30 Two And A Half Men 00:00 In A World...-PG15 08:05 Cake Boss 04:40 Beat My Build 13:55 Austin & Ally Coo 15:00 Two And A Half Men 02:00 HairBrained-PG15 08:30 Cake Boss 05:30 Valentine Warner Eats 14:20 H2O: Just Add Water 07:00 Golfing World 22:00 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 15:30 The Daily Show With Jon 04:00 Anchorman 2: The Legend 08:55 Bakery Boss Scandinavia 14:55 Liv And Maddie 01:00 Deadfall-PG15 08:00 PGA Tour Highlights 22:25 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives Stewart Continues-PG15 09:45 Cake Boss 05:50 Come Dine With Me 15:20 Binny And The Ghost 03:00 Closed Circuit-PG15 09:00 PGA European Tour 22:50 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 16:00 The Nightly Show With Larry 06:00 Run For Your Wife-PG15 10:10 Sister Wives 06:40 Masterchef: The 15:45 Girl Meets World 05:00 Captain America: The Winter Highlights 23:15 Roadtrip With G. Garvin Wilmore 08:00 Three Men And A Baby- 11:00 Super Saver Showdown Professionals 16:10 Violetta Soldier-PG15 12:00 Golfing World 23:40 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 16:30 Til Death PG15 11:50 Bakery Boss 07:35 Rachel’s Favourite Food For 17:00 Gravity Falls 07:15 Peeples-PG15 16:00 PGA Tour Highlights 17:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 10:00 In A World...-PG15 12:40 World’s Worst Mum Living 17:25 Hank Zipzer 09:00 Straight A’s-PG15 17:00 PGA European Tour 18:00 Hot In Cleveland 12:00 Ghost Dad-PG 13:30 Oprah: Where Are They 08:00 Antiques Roadshow 17:50 Binny And The Ghost 11:00 The Hunger Games: Highlights 18:30 Melissa & Joey 14:00 Surviving Christmas-PG15 Now? 08:50 Come Dine With Me 18:15 Jessie Catching Fire-PG15 18:00 Golfing World 19:00 The Simpsons 16:00 Three Men And A Baby- 14:20 Oprah’s Next Chapter 09:15 Beat My Build 18:40 Austin & Ally 13:00 Frozen-PG 19:00 NRL Full Time 19:30 Marry Me PG15 15:10 Cake Boss 10:05 Bargain Hunt 19:05 H2O: Just Add Water 15:00 The Pretty One-PG15 21:00 Volvo Ocean Race 20:00 The Tonight Show Starring 18:00 The World’s End-PG15 15:35 Little People, Big World 10:50 Come Dine With Me 19:30 Violetta 00:40 Ade In Britain 17:00 Straight A’s-PG15 22:30 Premier League Darts Jimmy Fallon 20:00 The Internship-PG15 16:00 Hoarding: Buried Alive 11:40 Masterchef: The 20:20 Binny And The Ghost 01:30 Come Dine With Me Ireland 19:00 RoboCop-PG15 21:00 The Daily Show With Jon 22:30 Step Brothers-18 16:50 Say Yes To The Dress ‚Äì Professionals 20:45 H2O: Just Add Water 02:00 Emmerdale 21:00 The Millennium Bug-PG15 Stewart Bridesmaids 12:30 Antiques Roadshow 21:10 Austin & Ally 02:25 Emmerdale 23:00 American Hustle-18 21:30 The Nightly Show With Larry 17:15 17 Kids And Counting 13:20 Come Dine With Me 21:35 Jessie 02:55 Coronation Street Wilmore 03:00 Live WWE Raw 17:40 Sister Wives 13:45 Beat My Build 22:00 Gravity Falls 03:25 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 22:00 The League 09:00 Golfing World 18:30 Super Saver Showdown 14:35 Bargain Hunt 22:25 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 04:20 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 22:30 Silicon Valley 10:00 Dubai World Cup Carnival 19:20 Sister Wives 15:25 Come Dine With Me Teenage Witch 05:15 Lewis 23:00 Jonah From Tonga 01:00 Inescapable-PG15 15:00 WWE Raw 20:10 World’s Worst Mum 16:15 Masterchef: The 22:50 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 06:10 Take On The Twisters 07:05 Come Dine With Me Ireland 23:30 Late Night With Seth Meyers 03:00 Diana-PG15 18:00 WWE Experience 21:00 The Undateables Professionals Teenage Witch 19:00 WWE Afterburn 07:30 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 05:00 Nebraska-PG15 01:00 Unstable Fables: Goldilocks 21:50 New Body, New Style 17:10 Antiques Roadshow 23:10 Wolfblood 20:00 WWE Raw 08:25 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 07:00 The Good Witch’s Wedding- & The Three Bears 22:40 Extreme Couponing 18:00 Come Dine With Me 23:35 Wolfblood 23:30 Golfing World 09:20 Coach Trip PG15 02:45 Pacific Pirates 23:05 Mob Wives 18:25 Beat My Build 09:00 Five Thirteen-PG15 23:55 The Undateables 19:15 Beat My Build 09:45 Coach Trip 04:30 Hammer Boy 10:15 Lewis 11:00 Nebraska-PG15 06:00 Barbie Fairytopia Mermaidia 20:10 Nordic Cookery With Tareq 01:00 Helix 13:00 Diana-PG15 Taylor 11:10 Emmerdale 08:00 Barbie As Rapunzel 11:35 Emmerdale 02:00 Banshee 15:00 Mandela: Long Walk To 10:00 Cinderella 20:35 Bill’s Kitchen: Notting Hill 17:30 ICC Cricket 360 12:00 Coronation Street 03:00 Hemlock Grove Freedom-PG15 11:30 Quest For A Heart 21:00 Vacation Vacation Vacation 18:00 ICC World Cup H/L: NZ v 00:00 Christina Milian Turned Up 12:30 Ade In Britain 04:00 Revenge 17:21 Five Thirteen-PG15 13:00 Pacific Pirates 21:25 Masterchef: The BAN 00:55 The Soup 13:25 Take On The Twisters 19:01 Hateship Loveship-PG15 14:30 The Happy Cricket 2 Professionals 05:00 Red Band Society 19:00 ICC World Cup H/L: AFG v 01:25 Keeping Up With The 14:20 Come Dine With Me Ireland 21:00 The Factory-PG15 16:00 Blue Elephant 22:20 Antiques Roadshow 08:00 White Collar ENG Kardashians 14:45 Lewis 23:00 Drive-18 18:00 Cinderella 00:10 Zou 23:10 Come Dine With Me 09:00 Red Band Society 20:00 ICC World Cup H/L: AUS v 02:20 E! News 15:35 Coach Trip 20:00 Soccer Dog: European Cup 00:25 Mouk 23:35 Baking Mad With Eric 10:00 Revenge SCO 03:15 Escape Club 16:00 Coach Trip 22:00 The Happy Cricket 2 00:35 Jungle Junction Lanlard 12:00 Emmerdale 21:00 ICC Cricket 360 04:10 Beyond Candid With 16:30 Arthur And George 23:30 Blue Elephant 00:50 Art Attack Giuliana 17:15 Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night 12:30 Coronation Street 01:15 Julius Jr. 05:05 E!ES Takeaway 13:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 01:25 Calimero 06:00 Kourtney And Kim Take 18:20 Take On The Twisters 14:00 White Collar 01:30 Goal II: Living The Dream- 01:40 Henry Hugglemonster Miami 19:10 Coronation Street 16:00 Emmerdale PG15 01:50 Zou 06:55 Kourtney And Kim Take 02:05 Mouk 19:35 Coach Trip 16:30 Coronation Street 03:30 Silent Victim-PG15 Miami 20:00 Coach Trip 05:30 Tales Of The Night-PG 00:00 Planet 51-PG 02:15 Jungle Junction 07:50 Style Star 17:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 00:20 Fast N’ Loud 20:30 Arthur And George 07:00 Snow Falling On Cedars- 02:00 The Philly Kid-PG15 02:25 Art Attack 08:20 E! News 18:00 White Collar 01:10 Gold Rush 21:15 Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night PG15 04:00 G.I. Joe: Retaliation-PG15 00:45 Secret Eskimo Escape 02:50 Julius Jr. 09:15 Giuliana & Bill 19:00 Criminal Minds 02:00 Gold Divers: Under The Ice Takeaway 09:30 Escape From Polygamy- 06:00 Madagascar-PG 01:35 Extreme Couponing 03:00 Calimero 10:15 Giuliana & Bill 02:50 Alaska: The Last Frontier 22:20 Coronation Street 20:00 Bones PG15 08:00 The Numbers Station-PG15 02:00 Mob Wives 03:15 Henry Hugglemonster 11:10 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills 03:40 Auction Hunters: Pawn Shop 22:50 Emmerdale 21:00 The Voice 11:00 Goal II: Living The Dream- 10:00 Marvel’s Ultimate Avengers I- 02:50 Say Yes To The Dress ‚Äì 03:25 Zou 11:35 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills Edition 23:15 Emmerdale 23:00 Hemlock Grove PG15 PG Bridesmaids 03:40 Mouk 12:05 E! News 04:05 Garage Gold 23:45 Lewis 13:00 My Piece Of The Pie-PG15 12:00 G.I. Joe: Retaliation-PG15 03:15 Little People, Big World 03:50 Jungle Junction 04:30 Backroad Bounty 04:00 Art Attack 05:00 How It’s Made 04:25 Julius Jr. 05:30 How It’s Made 04:35 Calimero 06:00 Yukon Men 04:50 Henry Hugglemonster 06:50 Fifth Gear 05:00 Zou 07:40 Fast N’ Loud 05:15 Mouk 08:30 Auction Hunters: Pawn Shop 05:25 Jungle Junction Edition 05:35 Art Attack 08:55 Garage Gold 06:00 Julius Jr. 09:20 Backroad Bounty 06:10 Calimero 09:45 How It’s Made 06:25 Henry Hugglemonster 10:10 How It’s Made 06:35 Zou 10:35 Gold Rush 06:50 Mouk 11:25 Gold Divers: Under The Ice 07:00 Jungle Junction 12:15 Alaska: The Last Frontier 07:10 Art Attack 13:05 Auction Hunters: Pawn Shop 07:35 Julius Jr. Edition 07:45 Calimero 13:30 Garage Gold 08:00 Jungle Junction 13:55 Backroad Bounty 08:10 Zou 14:20 Yukon Men 08:25 Henry Hugglemonster 15:10 Fifth Gear 08:35 Julius Jr. 16:00 Fast N’ Loud 08:50 Mouk 16:50 How It’s Made 09:00 Calimero 17:15 How It’s Made 09:15 Jake And The Never Land 17:40 River Monsters Pirates 18:30 The Island With Bear Grylls 09:40 Doc McStuffins 19:20 Survive That! 10:05 Art Attack 20:10 Garage Gold 10:35 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 20:35 Backroad Bounty 11:00 Sofia The First 21:00 The Island With Bear Grylls 11:25 Sheriff Callie’s Wild West 21:50 Survive That! 11:55 Zou 22:40 Tethered 12:10 Calimero 23:30 River Monsters 12:30 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 13:10 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 13:50 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 14:20 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 14:45 Jake And The Never Land Pirates 15:15 Doc McStuffins 15:40 Sheriff Callie’s Wild West 00:40 How It’s Made 16:05 Sofia The First 01:05 How It’s Made 16:35 Zou 01:30 Man vs The Universe 16:50 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 02:20 Through The Wormhole With 17:15 Lilo & Stitch Morgan Freeman 17:40 Adventures Of The 03:10 How Do They Do It? Gummi Bears 03:35 How Do They Do It? 18:05 Chip n Dale Rescue 04:00 Food Factory Rangers 04:24 Food Factory 18:30 Ducktales 04:48 Invent It Rich 19:00 Art Attack 05:36 Invent It Rich 19:25 Sofia The First 06:24 Bang Goes The Theory 19:55 Calimero 06:48 How Tech Works 20:10 Doc McStuffins 07:12 Food Factory 20:25 Jake And The Never Land 07:36 How Do They Do It? Pirates 08:00 Bang Goes The Theory 20:50 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 08:25 How Tech Works 21:25 Sofia The First 08:50 X-Machines 21:50 Adventures Of The 09:40 Food Factory Gummi Bears 10:05 How It’s Made 22:20 Chip n Dale Rescue 10:30 Invent It Rich Rangers 11:20 Invent It Rich 22:45 Ducktales 12:10 How Do They Do It? 23:15 Art Attack 12:35 How Do They Do It? 23:40 Calimero 13:00 Bang Goes The Theory ROBOCOP ON OSN MOVIES HD 23:55 Henry Hugglemonster Classifieds

TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015

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ER 4:45 PM DEMONIC 1:15 PM residency at 272 change my name to Anil YOUM MALOUSH LASMA (Arabic) 8:45 PM AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 6:45 PM DEMONIC 3:15 PM Kannukere, Tekkatte Post, Cherian Polachirackal. DEMONIC 11:00 PM AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 9:30 PM DEMONIC 5:15 PM Kundapur Tq, hereby (C 4942) DEMONIC 12:45 AM FAST ... ER 12:15 AM DEMONIC 7:15 PM declare change my name to DEMONIC 9:15 PM Sheikh Ashfak Ahamad. MUHALAB-1 MARINA-2 DEMONIC 11:15 PM SITUATION WANTED CINDERELLA 12:00 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 12:00 PM DEMONIC 1:15 AM (C 4951) CINDERELLA 2:30 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 2:30 PM 17-3-2015 Accountant (Indian) having CINDERELLA 5:00 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 5:00 PM 360º- 3 23 years experience in CINDERELLA 7:30 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 7:30 PM ASTERIX: THE MANSIONS OF THE GODS 12:00 PM I, Mohammed Fayaz holder Middle East and Africa, cur- CINDERELLA 10:00 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 10:00 PM ASTERIX: THE MANSIONS OF THE GODS 2:00 PM of Indian Passport No. rently in Kuwait from 2006 CINDERELLA 12:15 AM RUN ALL NIGHT 12:30 AM ASTERIX: THE MANSIONS OF THE GODS 4:00 PM K7925484 BE8 1010 Chetta ASTERIX: THE MANSIONS OF THE GODS 6:15 PM Comp Oppa Sector St. Rd looking for a suitable place- MUHALAB-2 MARINA-3 RUN ALL NIGHT 8:45 PM ment with transferable iqa- FAST ... ER 11:30 AM CINDERELLA 12:30 PM AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 11:30 PM Trombay Mumbai 400088 ASTERIX: THE MANSIONS OF THE GODS 1:30 PM CINDERELLA 3:00 PM hereby changed my name ma. Contact: 97934610. ASTERIX: THE MANSIONS OF THE GODS 3:30 PM CINDERELLA 5:15 PM AL-KOUT.1 to Faiyaz Khan Siraj Khan. (C 4944) FAST ... ER 5:30 PM CINDERELLA 7:30 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 12:00 PM (C 4947) 10-3-2015 FAST ... ER 7:30 PM CINDERELLA 9:45 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 2:30 PM AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 9:45 PM CINDERELLA 12:05 AM RUN ALL NIGHT 5:00 PM Management level IT FAST ... ER 12:30 AM YOUM MALOUSH LASMA (Arabic) 7:30 PM I, George Silvestre Dias AVENUES-1 RUN ALL NIGHT 9:45 PM holder of Indian Passport Engineer (B.Tech.-VCAP5- MUHALAB-3 YOUM MALOUSH LASMA (Arabic) 11:45 AM RUN ALL NIGHT 12:15 AM No. F5455285 issued at VCP4-CCNACCNP-MCP- RUN ALL NIGHT 12:15 PM YOUM MALOUSH LASMA (Arabic) 2:15 PM Kuwait and having resi- PMP-BS7799), 14 Years RUN ALL NIGHT 2:45 PM YOUM MALOUSH LASMA (Arabic) 4:45 PM AL-KOUT.2 dence at status-1, flat no. experience, technical RUN ALL NIGHT 5:15 PM YOUM MALOUSH LASMA (Arabic) 7:15 PM FAST ... ER 12:15 PM 304, 3rd floor, Yeshwant RUN ALL NIGHT 7:45 PM YOUM MALOUSH LASMA (Arabic) 9:45 PM AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 2:30 PM expert in entire IT functions RUN ALL NIGHT 10:15 PM YOUM MALOUSH LASMA (Arabic) 12:15 AM FAST ... ER 5:15 PM Nagar, Vakola Santacruz including infrastructure RUN ALL NIGHT 12:45 AM FAST ... ER 7:15 PM (east) Mumbai - 400055 storage, network, systems, AVENUES-2 AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 9:15 PM India, hereby declare virtualization & cloud pio- FANAR-1 FOCUS 11:30 AM AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 12:05 AM change my name to George neer with transferable Visa. FAST ... ER 12:45 PM FOCUS 1:45 PM Sylvester Dias. FOCUS 3:00 PM FOCUS 4:00 PM AL-KOUT.3 Contact 99154727 or FAST ... ER 5:15 PM FOCUS 6:15 PM OUTCAST 11:30 AM (C 4948) [email protected] AMERICAN HEIST 7:15 PM FOCUS 8:30 PM CINDERELLA 1:30 PM (C.4941) FOCUS 9:00 PM FOCUS 10:45 PM OUTCAST 3:45 PM I, Aziz Husain, holder of 9-3-2015 FAST ... ER 11:00 PM FOCUS 1:00 AM CINDERELLA 5:45 PM Indian Passport No. FAST ... ER 1:00 AM CINDERELLA 8:00 PM F3216127 issued in Jaipur, AVENUES-3 CINDERELLA 10:15 PM India, and having residence FANAR-2 AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 12:00 PM OUTCAST 12:30 AM ACCOMMODATION CINDERELLA 1:00 PM AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 2:45 PM at Barodiyawala, Mohammedi Pura Banswara CINDERELLA 3:30 PM AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 5:30 PM AL-KOUT.4 Sharing accommodation (Raj) hereby declare change CINDERELLA 5:45 PM AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 8:30 PM DEMONIC 12:30 PM (separate room & bath- Prayer timings CINDERELLA 8:00 PM AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 11:15 PM ASTERIX: THE MANSIONS OF THE GODS 2:30 PM of name to Aziz Barodiya. room) is available in CINDERELLA 10:15 PM DEMONIC 4:15 PM (C 4949) 16-3-2015 CINDERELLA 12:30 AM AVENUES-4 ASTERIX: THE MANSIONS OF THE GODS 6:00 PM Salmiya for vegetarian Fajr: 04:38 RUN ALL NIGHT 12:00 PM AMERICAN HEIST 7:45 PM Indian small family or a FANAR-3 RUN ALL NIGHT 2:30 PM DEMONIC 9:30 PM I, Arindam Chattergee Shorook 05:57 holder of Indian Passport working lady near Al Rashid OUTCAST 11:30 AM RUN ALL NIGHT 5:00 PM DEMONIC 11:15 PM Hospital. Shara Amman ASTERIX: THE MANSIONS OF THE GODS 1:30 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 7:30 PM DEMONIC 1:00 AM No. G8704645 issued at Duhr: 11:57 ASTERIX: THE MANSIONS OF THE GODS 3:15 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 10:00 PM Lucknow (India) and having round about Salmiya in a ASTERIX: THE MANSIONS OF THE GODS 5:15 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 12:45 AM BAIRAQ-1 residence at 108, central A/C flat from March Asr: 15:22 OUTCAST 7:00 PM CINDERELLA 11:45 AM Pushpanjali Nagar, 20th onwards with a sepa- AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 9:15 PM AVENUES-5 CINDERELLA 2:00 PM Bhawapur P.O., GTB Nagar rate room & bathroom, big Maghrib: 17:56 AL TIJARA SHATARA (Kuwaiti Film) 12:15 AM CINDERELLA 12:30 PM CINDERELLA 4:15 PM hall etc at a good location. CINDERELLA 3:00 PM CINDERELLA 6:30 PM PS Khuldabad, Allahabd hereby declare change my Contact: 99838117 or Isha: 19:13 name to Ariz Naqvi. 99315825. (C 4940)

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

Arrival Flights on Tuesday 17/3/2015 FDB 057 Dubai 14:30 Departure Flights on Tuesday 17/3/2015 FDB 058 Dubai 15:10 Airlines Flt Route Time GFA 221 Bahrain 15:00 Airlines Flt Route Time KAC 617 Doha 15:15 JAI 574 Mumbai 00:10 KAC 788 Jeddah 15:10 AIC 976 Goa/Chennai 00:05 KNE 473 Jeddah 15:20 JZR 239 Amman 00:25 OMA 645 Muscat 15:25 BBC 044 Dhaka 00:40 SVA 501 Jeddah 15:45 JZR 267 Beirut 00:30 ABY 127 Sharjah 15:45 PIA 206 Lahore 00:40 GFA 222 Bahrain 15:45 JZR 539 Cairo 00:40 UAE 857 Dubai 15:45 FDB 072 Dubai 00:45 KAC 773 Riyadh 15:50 KLM 411 Amsterdam/Dammam 00:40 FDB 051 Dubai 16:00 JAI 573 Mumbai 01:10 OMA 646 Muscat 16:25 THY 772 Istanbul 00:45 NIA 251 Alexandria 16:15 KLM 411 Amsterdam 01:55 ABY 128 Sharjah 16:25 FDB 069 Dubai 00:55 KAC 562 Amman 16:20 DLH 635 Frankfurt 02:15 KAC 741 Dammam 17:00 QTR 1084 Doha 01:00 QTR 1072 Doha 16:40 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 02:45 FDB 052 Dubai 17:00 PGT 858 Istanbul 01:35 RJA 640 Amman 16:55 THY 773 Istanbul 02:55 JZR 266 Beirut 17:05 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 01:45 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 16:55 PGT 859 Istanbul 03:25 NIA 252 Alexandria 17:15 UAE 854 Dubai 03:50 QTR 1073 Doha 17:40 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:30 UAL 982 IAD 17:05 FDB 068 Dubai 03:55 JZR 538 Cairo 17:45 UAE 853 Dubai 02:35 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:15 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:05 UAE 858 Dubai 17:45 JAI 526 Chennai/Abu Dhabi 02:50 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 MSR 613 Cairo 04:10 ETD 304 Abu Dhabi 17:50 FDB 067 Dubai 02:55 JZR 325 Al Najaf 17:50 KKK 6508 Istanbul 04:10 RJA 641 Amman 17:55 JZR 777 Jeddah 17:55 RJA 648 Amman 03:05 QTR 1085 Doha 04:30 SVA 511 Riyadh 18:15 MSR 612 Cairo 03:10 UAE 875 Dubai 18:00 MSC 406 Sohag 05:05 UAL 982 Bahrain 18:20 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 03:10 TAR 328 Tunis/Dubai 18:05 QTR 1077 Doha 05:15 GFA 216 Bahrain 18:20 KKK 6507 Istanbul 03:20 JZR 177 Dubai 18:20 THY 765 Istanbul 05:40 JZR 184 Dubai 18:40 QTR 1076 Doha 03:45 FDB 063 Dubai 18:40 FDB 070 Dubai 06:30 JZR 238 Amman 18:50 MSC 401 Alexandria 04:05 ABY 121 Sharjah 18:40 JAI 525 Abu Dhabi/Chennai 06:35 TAR 328 Tunis 18:55 THY 770 Istanbul 05:35 KAC 786 Jeddah 18:45 JZR 164 Dubai 06:55 JZR 134 Bahrain 19:10 DHX 170 Bahrain 05:40 QTR 1080 Doha 18:50 RJA 649 Amman 07:05 ABY 122 Sharjah 19:20 VDA 2902 LEJ 06:00 AXB 393 Kozhikode 19:15 JZR 560 Sohag 07:10 UAE 876 Dubai 19:40 BAW 157 London 06:40 KAC 774 Riyadh 19:15 GFA 212 Bahrain 07:15 QTR 1081 Doha 19:50 KAC 412 Manila/Bangkok 07:10 KAC 618 Doha 19:15 THY 771 Istanbul 07:30 FDB 064 Dubai 19:55 FDB 053 Dubai 07:45 KAC 542 Cairo 19:25 FDB 054 Dubai 08:25 GFA 218 Bahrain 20:15 QTR 1086 Doha 07:50 KAC 674 Dubai 19:25 BAW 156 London 08:45 AXB 393 Kozhikode 20:15 THY 6776 Istanbul 07:50 KAC 678 Muscat/Abu Dhabi 19:25 QTR 1087 Doha 08:50 KAC 283 Dhaka 20:30 SVA 512 Riyadh 07:55 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:30 KAC 513 Tehran 08:55 KAC 361 Colombo 20:50 KAC 416 Kuala Lumpur/Jakarta 08:05 KAC 166 Paris/Rome 19:40 SVA 513 Riyadh 08:55 KAC 343 Chennai 20:55 KAC 352 Kochi 08:10 KAC 104 London 19:55 THY 6776 Dubai 09:20 JAI 571 Mumbai 21:00 KAC 382 Delhi 08:15 KAC 742 Dammam 20:00 KAC 787 Jeddah 09:25 VDA 2903 Ahmedabad 21:00 KAC 302 Mumbai 08:20 JAI 572 Mumbai 20:00 KAC 671 Dubai 09:25 OMA 648 Muscat 21:05 KAC 206 Islamabad 08:25 MSR 618 Alexandria 20:05 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:40 MSR 607 Luxor 21:05 KAC 101 London/New York 09:50 KAC 332 Trivandrum 08:30 OMA 647 Muscat 20:05 GFA 047 Istanbul 21:15 UAE 856 Dubai 09:55 UAE 855 Dubai 08:40 FDB 061 Dubai 20:20 KAC 351 Kochi 21:15 ETD 302 Abu Dhabi 10:20 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:00 GFA 047 Bahrain 20:30 FDB 062 Dubai 21:20 KAC 561 Amman 10:25 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 09:20 DLH 636 Frankfurt 20:50 DLH 636 Dammam 21:35 FDB 056 Dubai 10:35 KAC 282 Dhaka 09:20 ALK 229 Colombo 21:10 DHX 171 Bahrain 21:50 QTR 1071 Doha 11:00 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 MEA 402 Beirut 21:20 KAC 381 Delhi 22:00 KAC 165 Rome/Paris 11:15 QTR 1070 Doha 10:00 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:30 ALK 230 Colombo 22:10 GFA 214 Bahrain 11:25 IRA 675 Lar 10:40 FDB 073 Dubai 21:35 IRA 674 Lar 11:40 ETD 308 Abu Dhabi 22:15 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 UAE 859 Dubai 21:40 KAC 541 Cairo 12:05 KAC 301 Mumbai 22:15 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:45 UAE 873 Dubai 11:00 KAC 677 Abu Dhabi/Muscat 12:20 MEA 403 Beirut 22:20 MSC 405 Sohag 11:25 QTR 1074 Doha 21:55 JZR 776 Jeddah 12:20 KAC 203 Lahore 22:20 JZR 165 Dubai 11:30 JZR 135 Bahrain 22:05 MSC 402 Alexandria 12:25 FDB 074 Dubai 22:30 MEA 404 Beirut 11:55 UAL 981 Bahrain 22:10 UAE 874 Dubai 12:30 GFA 220 Bahrain 22:30 UAE 871 Dubai 12:50 ETD 309 Abu Dhabi 22:15 MEA 405 Beirut 12:55 UAE 860 Dubai 22:50 MSR 610 Cairo 13:00 KLM 415 Amsterdam 22:15 KAC 785 Jeddah 13:00 KAC 205 Islamabad 22:55 KAC 514 Tehran 13:10 FDB 059 Dubai 22:30 JZR 176 Dubai 13:45 ETD 310 Abu Dhabi 23:00 JZR 561 Sohag 13:45 AIC 981 Chennai/Hyderabad/Ahmedabad 22:30 MSR 611 Cairo 14:00 QTR 1075 Doha 23:05 KAC 672 Dubai 13:55 PIA 239 Sialkot 22:35 UAE 872 Dubai 14:15 KLM 415 Dammam/Amsterdam 23:15 QTR 1078 Doha 14:05 JZR 185 Dubai 23:15 JZR 324 Al Najaf 14:25 KAC 411 Bangkok/Manila 23:30 KNE 472 Jeddah 14:25 THY 764 Istanbul 23:35 KAC 673 Dubai 15:00 PIA 240 Sialkot 23:35 SVA 500 Jeddah 14:30 FDB 071 Dubai 23:45 QTR 1079 Doha 15:05 FDB 060 Dubai 23:55 DIAL161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION stars34 TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015

CROSSWORD 844 STAR TRACK

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

A little stress today may keep you on your toes. Without the challenges, you You are valued for your unique qualities. There are new ways to view people would never be able to show off your professional expertise. You may receive and new ways of understanding situations. People come to you for advice and insight with some recognition or special attention today regarding your particular skills and abilities. a different view. This is a perfect time to be assertive and to move forward in your career. You have a lot of energy to pour into practical and career decisions. You make your way You have all the drive and energy you could want-and it should be easy to channel. You now by using practical vision and common sense. This could be some kind of high-water may find yourself expressive and able to communicate well. Avoid legal entanglements as mark for your career. If you are artistic, this afternoon you might allow your imagination to much as possible. You may have insights or breakthroughs in regard to your living situation reach into areas that you have not explored. Regardless of your special talents, music and or life circumstances. You can take command of your life now and proceed at full speed creativity can take you into levels of consciousness you have never reached before. This ahead in any area you wish. Your imagination is flowing and your romantic feelings are energy is safe and fun and will help you to relax. deepened. Plan a romantic journey.

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

You may become distracted from your work several times today. Do not let it The job you are working on today has all of your attention this morning. throw you; it could be that you are being tested because you are up for advancement in Resisting the interruptions from co-workers is not a problem because you are determined your career. The interruptions or the temptations to become distracted make for wonderful to focus your attention on the business at hand. You will be setting the trend for others to ways to know if you are up to the challenge. Try to go a little easier on yourself. Work slow- follow that would usually waste the day. The results of your efforts will be recognized. A dis- downs or stoppages may present opportunities for you to catch your breath. An undercur- ciplined approach to work, health and life’s other essential routines is also important to you. rent of restlessness makes you aware of some positive changes that are in the forecast. When it is time, you will make the appropriate appointments, to stay in good health. Congratulations-you have found a consistent balance in your working days. You are well Beating the odds through cleverness is appealing and this may lead to an interest in all disposed to others; however, be careful in bending over backwards; your help may be mis- kinds of financial speculation this afternoon. Before plunking down any money seek wise construed. Sometimes it is better to wait until asked. advice. A surprise gift comes to you this evening.

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

This workday is packed full of action. If you are in sales, this should be a good Working with-rather than against-the flow should be easy to do today. You day. If you are in repairs, this could be a frustrating one. Either way, today is feel inspired in the workplace. An easy, calm day should find everything run- busy. Someone may have trouble speaking and someone else may have lost his or her ning smoothly. Ideas and interaction with authority figures or older people may be in the keys. If you are the one in control, a person watching might think you were an aircraft con- future. Community, club or social interests are the topics of conversation during the lunch ACROSS DOWN troller. This is a successful day in the working world. You may gain through a legal maneuver hour. Think before you act with regard to financial matters; remember that there is no gain 1. Characteristic of a mob. 1. A master's degree in library science. or some dealings with legal types. There is still time this evening to visit with young people in jumping into a really attractive-sounding deal without checking first. A strong urge for a 4. Not faithful to religion or party or cause n. 2. An organization of countries formed in 1961 to or lend a helping hand. You may be opening a door to a new stage of life soon. Look at the social life may find you socializing this evening. However, you will walk a fine line between 12. Experiencing or showing sorrow or unhappi- agree on a common policy for the sale of petro- road in front of you as widening up-not as turning to another direction. General good feel- good company and disapproval, so be aware. One sign of strength is in asking for help ness. leum. ing of support makes this a most positive time. when needed. You are available to return the favor. 15. Any of various primates with short tails or no 3. Area around the altar of a church for the clergy tail at all. and choir. 16. A quiet song intended to lull a child to sleep. 4. A loose sleeveless outer garment made from Capricorn (December 22-January 19) 17. Fermented alcoholic beverage similar to but aba cloth. Cancer (June 21-July 22) heavier than beer. 5. A tricycle (usually propelled by pedalling). A love of music and an appreciation for the fine things in life are the reasons 18. A spacecraft that carries astronauts from the 6. Canadian hockey player (born 1948). You are learning to take control over your life. You are beginning to sense you are determined to achieve and accomplish in the workplace. You are not command module to the surface of the moon 7. Minute blackish gregarious flies destructive to improvements in all areas of your life and this trend will continue throughout the year. You afraid of hard work! Challenges are easy for you to eliminate. You look at the long term in a and back. mushrooms and seedlings. will be encouraged to make a positive difference in your professional and personal life. You business situation as well as what you might achieve. You are encouraged to make plans 19. An arm of the Mediterranean between 8. Hard strong durable yellowish-brown wood of will be able to use what you have learned and be more aware of situations developing and move forward. You will still enjoy a few moments of daydreaming each day, as well as Slovenia and Croatia and Montenegro and teak trees. around you. You may be challenged to make use of this newly gained knowledge. Don’t be occasionally purchasing a lottery ticket. This is an aesthetic and artistic time, to be sure, but Albania on the east and Italy on the west. 9. (psychiatry) An abnormal absorption with the afraid to assert yourself in kind, positive ways. You will know you are achieving success by it is also a practical and materialistic time. You develop a keen appreciation for the value of 20. (British) Your grandmother. self. the positive feedback. You draw emotional sustenance from your own peace of mind. Don’t things, including the money it takes to buy them. Your future looks bright-relax with your be too tight in your coming and going this evening-friends want to show off a new car or 21. Any of a number of fishes of the family 10. Wild ox of the Malay Archipelago. favorite pastime this evening. some other new item they purchased. Carangidae. 11. An international organization of European 23. Similar or related in quality or character. countries formed after World War II to reduce 25. (computer science) A coding system that trade barriers and increase cooperation among incorporates extra parity bits in order to detect its members. Leo (July 23-August 22) Aquarius (January 20- February 18) 12. The capital and largest city of Yemen. errors. Financial responsibilities need close attention now. Play it safe where such 13. Fear resulting from the awareness of danger. Today proves to be a full and satisfying day in the workforce. You may enjoy 27. A toxic nonmetallic element related to sulfur things are concerned, or you could find yourself in a hole. Sorting things out and getting 14. The brightest star in Cygnus. a bit of a rest from the stress that you can accrue. It could be that you are gearing up for the and tellurium. them organized to utmost efficiency keeps you busy. You could blurt out the wrong thing 22. A young woman making her debut into soci- next successful onslaught of work. This is a time when you can expect a little boost, some 28. Young sheep. today or be unable to convey what you really intend. Others may disagree with your ideas sort of extra support or recognition from those around you. You may feel that you are in 29. The basic unit of money in Panama. ety. so do not push an issue just yet. Since you believe that protocol and convention should be touch and in harmony with others; the lines of communication are open. You may notice a 32. A defensive missile designed to shoot down 24. Large swift fly the female of which sucks exercised, you are well mannered and gracious to all you come into contact with every day. relative or two become more dependent on you these days. Someone calls for your advice- incoming intercontinental ballistic missiles. blood of various animals. This puts you at the top of the class when it comes to showing visitors or new people often. This may be something that you will not want to become a habit. If you ask him or 35. A dark-skinned member of a race of people 26. Transparent anterior portion of the outer cov- around the office. Your own personal happiness will improve as you surround yourself with her to look at the problem as though he or she were helping a friend, he or she might not living in Australia when Europeans arrived. ering of the eye. people who bring out the best in you. expect you to find the answer so often. 36. A mature blood cell that contains hemoglo- 30. A port city in southwestern Iran. bin to carry oxygen to the bodily tissues. 31. Diuretic (trade name Lozal) used in the treat- 42. The official of a synagogue who conducts the ment of hypertension. liturgical part of the service and sings or chants 33. A small ball with a hole through the middle. Virgo (August 23-September 22) Pisces (February 19-March 20) the prayers intended to be performed as solos. 34. A white metallic element that burns with a 44. Soreness and warmth caused by friction. brilliant light. Someone may not be as understanding as you think he or she should be Instant gratification is one of the temptations to which you are subject now: today but if you wait awhile there will be an awareness taking place. 47. An amino acid that is found in the central 37. Being ten more than one hundred ninety. you want things, and you want them quickly. Although you will hold your 38. English monk and scholar (672-735). Remember that you have the power to turn any negative into a positive. This is a perfect own in the work world today, you may feel like going nuts when it comes to spending mon- nervous system. time to evaluate where you next want to concentrate your business goals. You may be able 48. A condensed but memorable saying 39. A republic on the island of Malta in the ey while shopping. This is a materialistic kind of focus that emphasizes the making and Mediterranean. to break through and move ahead with your ambitions and general life’s purpose. Some of spending of money. You may also have the inclination to engage in new projects or invest embodying some important fact of experience the professions you might enjoy would be those connected with animals that hunt, guide that is taken as true by many people. 40. At right angles to the length of a ship or air- in what may be best described as shaky. Easy does it with expenditures; there are surprises plane. or guard. Another choice would be working for some type of protection service. You can coming your way this evening. Learning what really counts is an important lesson you can 49. (Babylonian) God of storms and wind. 41. Italian chemist noted for work on polymers research and investigate all new business ventures and advise others. You may receive teach through positive examples. Celebrating with people, music and good feelings is what 50. A serve that strikes the net before falling into (1903-1979). unexpected help from someone more experienced than you. This is a positive time. this time is all about . . . Especially this evening. the receiver's court. 43. Small terrestrial lizard of warm regions of the 51. A deep bow. Old World. 53. The type of environment in which an organ- 45. (astronomy) The angular distance of a celes- ism or group normally lives or occurs. Word Search tial point measured westward along the celestial Yesterday Solution 56. An associate degree in nursing. equator from the zenith crossing. 57. A hairdo formed by braiding or twisting the 46. King of Saudi Arabia since 1982 (born in hair. 1922). 61. Tropical American tree grown in southern 52. A condition (mostly in boys) characterized by United States having a whitish pink-tinged fruit. behavioral and learning disorders. 63. Material used to daub walls. 54. Top part of an apron. 65. A flat wing-shaped process or winglike part 55. The part of the small intestine between the of an organism. jejunum and the cecum. 67. A social division of (usually preliterate) peo- 58. Climbing palm of Sri Lanka and southern ple. India remarkable for the great length of the 69. Large sweet juicy hybrid between tangerine stems which are used for Malacca canes. and grapefruit having a thick wrinkled skin. 59. The first light of day. 73. An indehiscent fruit derived from a single 60. In the same place (used when citing a refer- ovary having one or many seeds within a fleshy ence). wall or pericarp. 62. The capital and largest city of Bangladesh. 75. A member of a pastoral people living in the 64. A colorless odorless gaseous element that Nilgiri hills of southern India. give a red glow in a vacuum tube. 76. A flat-bottomed volcanic crater that was 66. A cord that is drawn through eyelets or formed by an explosion. around hooks in order to draw together two 77. Being one hundred more than two hundred. edges (as of a shoe or garment). 78. A cut of pork ribs with much of the meat 68. Capital city of the Apulia region on the trimmed off. Adriatic coast. 82. A benevolent aspect of Devi. 70. Cheap showy jewelry or ornament or cloth- 83. Relating to or characteristic of or occurring ing. on the sea or ships. 71. A Tibetan or Mongolian priest of Lamaism. 84. Low stingless nettle of Central and South 72. A republic in the Middle East in western Asia. America having velvety brownish-green toothed 74. Of southern Europe. leaves and clusters of small green flowers. 79. An informal term for a father. 85. East Indian tree bearing a profusion of 80. Being nine more than ninety. intense vermilion velvet-textured blooms and 81. A soft silvery metallic element of the alkali yielding a yellow dye. earth group. Yesterday’s Solution

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Afghanistan 0093 Luxembourg 00352 GOVERNORATE PHARMACY ADDRESS PHONE Albania 00355 Macau 00853 Algeria 00213 Macedonia 00389 Ahmadi Sama Safwan Fahaeel Makka St 23915883 Andorra 00376 Madagascar 00261 Sabah Hospital 24812000 Abu Halaifa Abu Halaifa-Coastal Rd 23715414 Angola 00244 Majorca 0034 Amiri Hospital 22450005 Danat Al-Sultan Mahboula Block 1, Coastal Rd 23726558 Anguilla 001264 Malawi 00265 Maternity Hospital 24843100 Jahra Modern Jahra Jahra-Block 3 Lot 1 24575518 Antiga 001268 Malaysia 0060 Madina Munawara Jahra-Block 92 24566622 Argentina 0054 Maldives 00960 Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital 25312700 Capital Ahlam Fahad Al-Salem St 22436184 Armenia 00374 Mali 00223 Chest Hospital 24849400 Khaldiya Coop Khaldiya Coop 24833967 Australia 0061 Malta 00356 Austria 0043 Marshall Islands 00692 Farwaniya Hospital 24892010 Farwaniya New Shifa Farwaniya Block 40 24734000 Ferdous Coop Ferdous Coop 24881201 Bahamas 001242 Martinique 00596 Adan Hospital 23940620 Modern Safwan Old Kheitan Block 11 24726638 Bahrain 00973 Mauritania 00222 Ibn Sina Hospital 24840300 Bangladesh 00880 Mauritius 00230 Hawally Tariq Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St 25726265 Barbados 001246 Mayotte 00269 Al-Razi Hospital 24846000 Hana Salmiya-Amman St 25647075 Ikhlas Hawally-Beirut St 22625999 Belarus 00375 Mexico 0052 Physiotherapy Hospital 24874330/9 Hawally & Rawdha Hawally & Rawdha Coop 22564549 Belgium 0032 Micronesia 00691 Ghadeer Jabriya-Block 1A 25340559 Belize 00501 Moldova 00373 Kindy Jabriya-Block 3B 25326554 Benin 00229 Monaco 00377 Ibn Al-Nafis Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St 25721264 Mishrif Coop Mishrif Coop 25380581 Bermuda 001441 Mongolia 00976 Kaizen center 25716707 Salwa Coop Salwa Coop 25628241 Bhutan 00975 Montserrat 001664 Rawda 22517733 Bolivia 00591 Morocco 00212 Bosnia 00387 Mozambique 00258 Adaliya 22517144 Botswana 00267 Myanmar (Burma) 0095 Khaldiya 24848075 Brazil 0055 Namibia 00264 Brunei 00673 Nepal 00977 Kaifan 24849807 Bulgaria 00359 Netherlands 0031 Shamiya 24848913 Burkina 00226 Netherlands Antilles 00599 Burundi 00257 New Caledonia 00687 Shuwaikh 24814507 Cambodia 00855 New Zealand 0064 Abdullah Salem 22549134 Cameroon 00237 Nicaragua 00505 Canada 001 Nigar 00227 Nuzha 22526804 Cape Verde 00238 Nigeria 00234 Industrial Shuwaikh 24814764 Cayman Islands 001345 Niue 00683 Central African 00236 Norfolk Island 00672 Qadsiya 22515088 Chad 00235 N. Ireland (UK) 0044 Dasmah 22532265 Chile 0056 North Korea 00850 Bneid Al-Gar 22531908 China 0086 Norway 0047 Colombia 0057 Oman 00968 Shaab 22518752 Comoros 00269 Pakistan 0092 Qibla 22459381 Congo 00242 Palau 00680 Cook Islands 00682 Panama 00507 Ayoun Al-Qibla 22451082 Costa Rica 00506 Papua New Guinea 00675 Mirqab 22456536 Croatia 00385 Paraguay 00595 Cuba 0053 Peru 0051 Sharq 22465401 Cyprus 00357 Philippines 0063 Salmiya 25746401 Cyprus (Northern) 0090392 Poland 0048 Czech Republic 00420 Portugal 00351 Jabriya 25316254 Denmark 0045 Puerto Rico 001787 Maidan Hawally 25623444 Diego Garcia 00246 Qatar 00974 Djibouti 00253 Romania 0040 Bayan 25388462 Dominica 001767 Russian Federation 007 Mishref 25381200 Dominican Republic 001809 Rwanda 00250 W Hawally 22630786 Ecuador 00593 Saint Helena 00290 Egypt 0020 Saint Kitts 001869 Sabah 24810221 El Salvador 00503 Saint Lucia 001758 Jahra 24770319 England (UK) 0044 Saint Pierre 00508 Equatorial Guinea 00240 Saint Vincent 001784 New Jahra 24575755 Eritrea 00291 Samoa US 00684 West Jahra 24772608 Estonia 00372 Samoa West 00685 Ethiopia 00251 San Marino 00378 South Jahra 24775066 Falkland Islands 00500 Sao Tone 00239 North Jahra 24775992 Faroe Islands 00298 Saudi Arabia 00966 Fiji 00679 Scotland (UK) 0044 North Jleeb 24311795 Finland 00358 Senegal 00221 Ardhiya 24884079 France 0033 Seychelles 00284 Firdous 24892674 French Guiana 00594 Sierra Leone 00232 French Polynesia 00689 Singapore 0065 Omariya 24719048 Gabon 00241 Slovakia 00421 N Khaitan 24710044 Gambia 00220 Slovenia 00386 Georgia 00995 Solomon Islands 00677 Fintas 23900322 Germany 0049 Somalia 00252 Ghana 00233 South Africa 0027 Gibraltar 00350 South Korea 0082 Greece 0030 Spain 0034 Greenland 00299 Sri Lanka 0094 PRIVATE CLINICS Grenada 001473 Sudan 00249 Guadeloupe 00590 Suriname 00597 Guam 001671 Swaziland 00268 Guatemala 00502 Sweden 0046 Ophthalmologists Plastic Surgeons Paediatricians Endocrinologist Guinea 00224 Switzerland 0041 Dr. Abidallah Al-Mansoor 25622444 Dr. Mohammad Al-Khalaf 22547272 Dr. Khaled Hamadi 25665898 Guyana 00592 Syria 00963 Dr. Abd Al-Naser Al-Othman 25339330 Dr. Samy Al-Rabeea 25752222 Dr. Abdal-Redha Lari 22617700 Dr. Abd Al-Aziz Al-Rashed 25340300 Haiti 00509 Serbia 00381 Dr. Masoma Habeeb 25321171 Dr. Abdel Quttainah 25625030/60 Dr. Zahra Qabazard 25710444 Dr. Ahmad Al-Ansari 25658888 Holland (Netherlands) 0031 Taiwan 00886 Dr. Mubarak Al-Ajmy 25739999 Family Doctor Dr. Sohail Qamar 22621099 Honduras 00504 Tanzania 00255 Dr. Mohsen Abel 25757700 Dr. Kamal Al-Shomr 25329924 Dr Divya Damodar 23729596/23729581 Dr. Snaa Maaroof 25713514 Hong Kong 00852 Thailand 0066 Dr Adnan Hasan Alwayl 25732223 Physiotherapists & VD Hungary 0036 Toga 00228 Psychiatrists Dr. Pradip Gujare 23713100 Dr. Abdallah Al-Baghly 25732223 Dr. Zacharias Mathew 24334282 Dr. Deyaa Shehab 25722291 Ibiza (Spain) 0034 Tonga 00676 Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) Dr. Esam Al-Ansari 22635047 Iceland 00354 Tokelau 00690 Dr. Ahmed Fouad Mouner 24555050 Ext 510 Dr Eisa M. Al-Balhan 22613623/0 Dermatology Dr. Musaed Faraj Khamees 22666288 India 0091 Trinidad 001868 Dr. Abdallah Al-Ali 25644660 Gynaecologists & Obstetricians Dr. Mohammed Salam Rheumatologists: Indian Ocean 00873 Tunisia 00216 Dr. Abd Al-Hameed Al-Taweel 25646478 DrAdrian arbe 23729596/23729581 Bern University 23845955 Indonesia 0062 Turkey 0090 Dr. Sanad Al-Fathalah 25311996 Dr. Verginia s.Marin 2572-6666 ext 8321 Dentists Dr. Adel Al-Awadi 25330060 Dr. Mohammad Al-Daaory 25731988 Iran 0098 Tuvalu 00688 Dr. Fozeya Ali Al-Qatan 22655539 Dr Anil Thomas 3729596/3729581 Dr. Ismail Al-Fodary 22620166 Dr. Khaled Al-Jarallah 25722290 Iraq 00964 Uganda 00256 Dr. Majeda Khalefa Aliytami 25343406 Dr. Shamah Al-Matar 22641071/2 Dr. Mahmoud Al-Booz 25651426 Ireland 00353 Ukraine 00380 Dr. Ahmad Al-Khooly 25739272 Dr. Anesah Al-Rasheed 22562226 Internist, Chest & Heart General Practitioners Italy 0039 United Arab Emirates 00976 Dr. Abidallah Al-Amer 22561444 Dr. Mohamme Y Majidi 24555050 Ext 123 Dr. Salem soso 22618787 DR.Mohammes Akkad 24555050 Ext 210 Ivory Coast 00225 United Kingdom 0044 Dr. Faysal Al-Fozan 22619557 General Surgeons Dr. Yousef Al-Omar 24719312 Dr. Mohammad Zubaid Jamaica 001876 Uruguay 00598 Dr. Abdallateef Al-Katrash 22525888 Dr. Tarek Al-Mikhazeem 23926920 Dr. Amer Zawaz Al-Amer 22610044 MB, ChB, FRCPC, PACC Japan 0081 USA 001 Dr. Abidallah Al-Duweisan 25653755 Dr. Kathem Maarafi 25730465 Dr. Mohammad Yousef Basher 25327148 Assistant Professor Of Medicine Jordan 00962 Uzbekistan 00998 Dr. Abdallah Ahmad Eyadah 25655528 Dr. Bader Al-Ansari 25620111 Internists, Chest & Heart Head, Division of Cardiology Kazakhstan 007 Vanuatu 00678 Dr. Nabeel Al-Ayoobi 24577781 Neurologists Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital 25339667 Dr. Adnan Ebil 22639939 Kenya 00254 Venezuela 00582 Dr. Dina Abidallah Al-Refae 25333501 Dr. Sohal Najem Al-Shemeri 25633324 Dr. Mousa Khadada 22666300 Consultant Cardiologist Kiribati 00686 Vietnam 0084 Urologists Dr. Jasem Mola Hassan 25345875 Dr. Latefa Al-Duweisan 25728004 Dr. Farida Al-Habib 2611555-2622555 Kuwait 00965 Virgin Islands UK 001284 Dr. Ali Naser Al-Serfy 22641534 Gastrologists MD, PH.D, FACC Dr. Fawzi Taher Abul 22639955 Dr. Nadem Al-Ghabra 25355515 Kyrgyzstan 00996 Virgin Islands US 001340 Dr. Sami Aman 22636464 Inaya German Medical Center Dr. Khaleel Abidallah Al-Awadi 22616660 Dr. Mobarak Aldoub 24726446 Laos 00856 Wales (UK) 0044 Dr. Mohammad Al-Shamaly 25322030 Te: 2575077 Dr. Adel Al-Hunayan FRCS (C) 25313120 Dr Nasser Behbehani 25654300/3 Latvia 00371 Yemen 00967 Dr. Foad Abidallah Al-Ali 22633135 Fax: 25723123 Dr. Leons Joseph 66703427 Lebanon 00961 Yugoslavia 00381 Soor Center Liberia 00231 Zambia 00260 Psychologists [email protected] Tel: 2290-1677 Kaizen center Noor Clinic William Schuilenberg, RPC 2290-1677 Libya 00218 Zimbabwe 00263 /Psychotherapists www.soorcenter.com Zaina Al Zabin, M.Sc. 2290-1677 Fax: 2290 1688 25716707 23845955 Lithuania 00370 lifestyle TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 FEATURES Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2015 opens with stunning ceremony

he seventh Emirates Airline Festival of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum. Poet, Around 40 authors representing the Arab Literature was officially opened at a playwright and broadcaster Lemn Sissay made a world also presented their works at the festival Tsparkling ceremony celebrating the written triumphant return to the 2015 festival, after mes- sharing their literary journey. More than 30,000 and spoken word in its many forms. Writers and merizing the audience the year before, perform- guests attended the festival and participated in performers Jason Kouchak, Naif Al-Muttawa, ing poetry from his collections to the rapt audi- sessions, workshops and special events at the Lemn Sissay and the Handspring Puppet Co were ence. Guests were captivated by a film shot in the InterContinental Hotel, Dubai Festival City. joined by school students from all over Dubai to desert of Al-Jir by Sheikh Hamdan bin British poet Lemn Sissay made a welcome entertain the audience at the evening, which was Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, confirming return to the festival after a stunning perform- sponsored by Dubai Culture and Arts Authority the power of poetry in the UAE. Capping off the ance at Desert Stanzas at the 2014 Festival. and attended by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed evening was the first-ever UAE appearance of the Emirati poet Adel Khozam, who appeared at the bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Sheikh Nahyan Bin life-size horse puppets from the War Horse play, inaugural Desert Stanzas in 2013, also returned Mubarak Al-Nahyan, UAE Minister of Culture, Joey and Topthorn, operated by the Handspring this year. Saif Al-Saadi, who recently participated Youth and Community Development and Sheikha Puppet Co. The choir comprised students from in the Dubai International Writers’ Centre’s Nabati Bodour bint Sultan Al-Qasimi, Founder and CEO the following schools: Al-Nokhba Model Primary Poetry Conference, was also at the festival as well of Kalimat publishing house. School, Jumeirah Model School, Dubai English as Caroline Sheldon, a top UK literary agent who The festival ran from 3 to 7 March and was Speaking School, Uptown School, GEMS represented 2015 Festival author Julia Donaldson. held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed Wellington Primary School, Safa Private School, bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, UAE Vice-President & Repton and Horizon School. War Horse Concert Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, in Dubai, in Organizers also announced additional ses- partnership with title sponsors Emirates and Creative writers sions for Julia Donaldson, whose first session sold Dubai Culture, the Emirate’s dedicated Authority The Festival of Literature this year welcomed out within days of going on sale. Joe for culture, arts, and heritage. The Festival is now over 130 writers, speakers and thinkers from 30 Abercrombie, who participated in The Closed part of the Emirates Literature Foundation, which countries during a five-day literary celebration in Council where 20 super-fans enjoyed the oppor- was established in 2013 by Royal decree. March. This cultural event, which was named Best tunity to have their burning questions regarding Opening night commenced with the singing Festival at the Middle East Events Awards for two Abercrombie’s books answered by the man him- of the UAE National anthem and the 2015 Festival consecutive years, engaged audiences of all ages self. South African psychologist and author anthem, “Wonderland”, performed by the and interests with sessions and workshops deal- Adrian Furnham also conducted new sessions on Combined Children’s Choir. Lyrics for the anthem ing with a host of genres, topics and subjects. getting published in academia and the relation- were written by Yvette Judge, Assistant Director Some of the biggest literary names that fea- ship between creativity and mental illness. Due to of the Festival, and Joan Scott-Minter with music tured in the 2015 program including bestselling the overwhelming demand for the Mad Hatter’s composed by Yousef Khan. Sheikh Nahyan Bin Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Tea Party, two more sessions were added. Festival Mubarak Al-Nahyan delivered the opening radio presenter Anita Anand, who has chronicled highlights included the brand new War Horse address followed by a welcome by Isobel the amazing story of Princess Sophia Duleep Concert with readings by Michael Morpurgo and Abulhoul, CEO and Trustee of the Emirates Singh, adventurer Charley Boorman, poet Imtiaz music from the West End play as well as the first Literature Foundation and Festival Director of the Dharker, John Dougherty and David Tazzyman, ever UAE appearance of the War Horse puppets, Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. the writer-illustrator duo behind the hilarious Joey and Topthorn.

Poetry and music under the stars Desert Stanzas, a night of poetry and music under the stars and the Murder Mystery Dinner both returned this year by popular demand. The main sessions of the festival began on March 4 evening with the Wednesday Majlis fea- turing a lecture by Cambridge Fellow Yasir Al- was topped by a Ladies’ Lunch presented by cele- Suleiman and talks by poet Mourid Barghouti, brated chef Suzanne Husseini. New for the adventurers Nasir Al-Dhaheri, Abdullah Al-Jumah Festival this year was the Graphic Novel strand and Talal Salem Al-Sabri and Arabists and histori- featuring writers and artists Zeina Abirached, ans Scott Anderson, Charles Glass and Eugene award-winning creator of The 99, Naif Al- Rogan. Thursday morning was dedicated to the Muttawa, ClÈment Baloup, Jean van Hamme and Female Focus sessions, celebrating the achieve- Nicolas Wild. Also new was Fforde’s Fantastic ments of women with sessions on sparking one’s Feedback, where eight lucky aspiring writers had creativity, financial tips and tricks, overcoming the opportunity to have their work reviewed by barriers and inspirational stories. The morning renowned fantasy author Jasper Forde at a 15-

minute face-to-face session.

Well organized The students’ competitions, Chevron Readers’ Cup, Taaleem Poetry Award, the Oxford University Press Story Writing Competition and the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center Qasidah Par Coeur Competition, which included a new age category this year, received an excellent response from students all over the region. Winners were also announced during the Festival. It was particularly a successful year for the Montegrappa First Fiction competition with 2013 runner-up Rachel Hamilton’s books being pub- lished, 2013 winner Annabel Kantaria earning a book deal with Harlequin which will be published in May 2015 and 2014 runner-up Lucinda Martin Widely acclaimed French pianist Jason Stinkbomb and Ketchup-Face, world-renowned earning a book deal with Chicken House. Winners Kouchak then took to the stage to perform a Egyptian writer Nawal El-Saadawi, television of the 2015 competition were judged by premier short piece from Scheherazade, inspired by broadcaster and historian Bettany Hughes, Angry UK literary agent Luigi Bonomi and announced Arabian Nights, and Knight of Peace, a world pre- Arthur illustrator Satoshi Kitamura, No 1 Ladies’ during his Getting Published session at the miere composed by Kouchak especially for the Detective Agency author Alexander McCall Smith, Festival. The Festival of Literature was well organ- Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2015. David Mitchell, author of Cloud Atlas and The ized over all. Full of inspirational and motivational Dr Naif Al-Mutawa, creator of The 99, the first Bone Clocks, award-winning children’s writer writers and authors. It was so encouraging to see group of super heroes born of an Islamic arche- Michael Morpurgo, who read extracts from his people from all ages and especially young chil- type, spoke eloquently about the need for this book War Horse at the brand new War Horse dren getting involved in such an educational superhero group. Al-Mutawa was recently pre- Concert, best-selling young adult authors Lauren event. Dubai once again ‘raised the bar’ not only sented with the Islamic Economy Award by Oliver and Markus Zusak. for GCC countries but worldwide. lifestyle TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 FEATURES Italian designer duo slam Elton John in IVF babies row talian designers Dolce and Gabbana yes- expected better from a singer he once terday accused Elton John of being admired. “I didn’t expect this, coming from Iauthoritarian, ignorant and hypocritical someone whom I considered, and I stress in a row over IVF babies, escalating a spat ‘considered’, an intelligent person like Elton that has embroiled some of the world’s John. “I mean, you preach understanding, biggest stars. John, 67, stirred up a social tolerance and then you attack others? “Only media storm on Sunday when he called for because someone has a different opinion? a boycott of the designer label in reaction Is this a democratic or enlightened way of to comments in which Domenico Dolce thinking? This is ignorance, because he referred to babies conceived through IVF as ignores the fact that others might have a “synthetic”. different opinion and that theirs is as wor- In comments endorsed on social media thy of respect as his.” by celebrities including Victoria Beckham, He said he had not tried to contact the Ricky Martin, Courtney Love and Martina pop star. “That would be useless! It’s an Navratilova, the gay star accused the Italian authoritarian way of seeing the world: duo of “wagging your judgmental little fin- agree with me or, if you don’t, I’ll attack gers at IVF.” In a typically scathing post on you.” Gabbana added: “Domenico has his Instagram, he added: “Your archaic thinking ideas, he made some choices. Elton John is out of step with the times, just like your made different choices. Different choices, fashions. I shall never wear Dolce and different lives. Equal respect. What I see, Gabbana ever again. particularly online, is a lot of gay people #BoycottDolceGabbana.” The designers, who are homophobic: gay people who will who are also gay and were in a long-term attack other gay people who express ideas relationship with each other until a few that are different from theirs.” Fans of the British comedy group Monty Python perform their skills during the International Silly Walk Day on January 7, 2015 in Brno, Czech years ago, said it was the veteran British John has two young sons with his hus- Republic. — AFP photo rocker who was being judgmental. band David Furnish who were conceived Dolce said his comment that IVF was through IVF and born thanks to a surrogacy not for him should not have been interpret- arrangement. In the interview which ed as disapproval of anyone else’s choices. caused the storm, Gabbana said he would ‘World’s most beautiful “I’m Sicilian and I grew up in a traditional have a child tomorrow if he could, while family, made up of a mother, a father and Dolce explained why he did not feel he children,” he said in a statement. could go down that road. “This is the reality in which I grew up, “You are born and you have a father and but it does not imply that I don’t under- a mother,” he told Panorama magazine. “Or boulevard’ turns 150 stand different ones. I was talking about my at least that’s the way it should be, and personal view, without judging other peo- that’s why I’m not convinced by children n 1857, bushy-whiskered Emperor Franz Joseph complete with ripped Greek heroes and an impos- Ringstrasse but at the same time the masses had to ple’s choices and decisions.” from chemistry, synthetic babies, uteruses proclaimed that his rapidly growing imperial ing Diana statue. fight to survive, both Jews and non-Jews,” she told His business partner Gabbana revealed for rent, semen chosen from a catalogue.” capital Vienna needed a radical makeover befit- Others include the hallowed Burgtheater, the AFP. Most of the bricks for the Ringstrasse’s build- that he had been so infuriated by John’s Beckham weighed into the row yesterday I ting Austro-Hungary’s wealth, might and techno- mighty Natural History Museum and its twin the ings were made in vast factories where workers, statement that he had posted the com- by tweeting: “Sending love to Elton David logical prowess. This year, the centrepiece of the Museum of Art History, the Neue Burg extension to most of them Czech, would work in horrendous ments #fascist and #boycotteltonjohn on Zachary Elijah & all the beautiful IVF mammoth urban engineering project that ensued- the Hofburg palace and the Votivkirche church-all conditions for 15 hours a day, seven days a week, the Instagram page. babies.” Gay Latino star Ricky Martin, who the resplendent, five-kilometer (three-mile) in different styles, but still fitting together. “It is fan- paid in company tokens, not money. People living has five-year-old twins, on Sunday accused “Ringstrasse” boulevard ringing old Vienna-turns tastic, like a museum of architecture,” said Rainald in “catastrophic” conditions, and the lower middle This is ignorance the Italian duo of fuelling bigotry. “@dol- 150. Franz, art and architecture historian at the Museum classes left behind by the Industrial Revolution, Speaking to Italian daily Corriere della cegabbana ur voices R 2powerful 2B With its dizzying mix of palaces, museums and of Applied Arts (MAK), giving AFP a neck-cranking became “highly receptive” to anti-Semitism, sowing Sera’s web edition, Gabbana said he had spreading so much h8,” he tweeted. —AFP public buildings in a chocolate box of different tour on a public tram conveniently going round the seeds for the rise of the Nazis and the styles, the “Ring” is the “most beautiful boulevard in most of the Ring. “The aim was to say to the world Holocaust, Kohlbauer-Fritz said. the world”, the tourist board says. The Austrian cap- this is an international metropolis.” ital is marking this with special exhibitions, show- Hitler connection ing how this street beloved of tourist and architec- Superficial splendor The man behind that genocide first visited ture aficionados-including Hitler has played a cen- Indeed, the Ringstrasse became the main stage Vienna in around 1906 as a teenager, and was tral role in the city’s happiest and darkest days. for Vienna’s golden era, the boulevard’s glittering blown away by the Ringstrasse. “For hours and cafes a haven for the intellectual elite of the day hours I could stand in wonderment... The whole ‘Like a museum’ like composer Gustav Mahler, the father of psycho- Ringstrasse had a magic effect upon me, as if it Following Franz Joseph’s decree, the city walls analysis Sigmund Freud or artist Gustav Klimt. And were a scene from the Thousand And One Nights,” that had kept out two marauding Turkish armies- filling the gaps between the public buildings were Hitler later recalled in “Mein Kampf”. He later lived but not Napoleon-were torn down, opening up the plush palaces erected by a new, confident and in Vienna between 1908 and 1913, during which claustrophobic centre. Inspired by Baron ostentatious class of Viennese grown rich from the time he failed to get into the Academy of Fine Arts, Haussmann’s renovation of Paris and by Ludwig I’s vast empire’s rapid industrialization, many of them stayed in a homeless shelter and sold respectable transformation of his Bavarian capital Munich, Jews. paintings of the many buildings on the Ring. Vienna summoned the finest architects of the day- These included for example the Ephrussis, the And when the failed artist returned in triumph Gottfried Semper, Theophil Hansen and Heinrich banking family made famous by Edmund de Waal’s on March 12, 1938 as Nazi dictator, he knew the von Ferstel. bestselling 2010 family memoir “The Hare with best place to make a triumphant entrance and The theme chosen was “historicism”, giving the Amber Eyes”. Their former home still stands today- announce the “annexation” of his native country designers free rein to give it all they had with inhabited by Casinos Austria and next to a into the Reich-the Ringstrasse and the balcony of designs inspired by bygone epochs in architecture- McDonald’s. But according to Gabriele Kohlbauer- the Neue Burg palace. The same night, with the and with no expense spared either financially, or in Fritz, curator of an upcoming exhibition- streets of Vienna ringing with shouts of “Heil This file picture dated 23 June 2007 shows Italian fashion designers Domenico Dolce scale. So what sprang up were the soaring ”Ringstrasse: A Jewish Boulevard”-at Vienna’s Hitler”! recounts de Waal in “The Hare with Amber and Stefano Gabbana acknowledging applause after presenting their Dolce & “Flemish-Gothic” city hall, a “neo-Renaissance” uni- Jewish Museum, this splendor was a facade, and Eyes”, the first brown shirts barge into and ransack Gabbana 2008 spring/summer men’s collection at Milan’s fashion week. — AFP versity, a “neo-Romantic” opera house and the not just for the city’s Jews. the Ephrussi Palace. It was a foretaste of the “neo-Classical” parliament, a Hellenist’s wet dream “On the one hand there was this wonderful tragedy to come. — AFP NIVEA collects four awards from the esteemed Eccentric millionaire arrested hours product of the Year 2015 Gulf Edition awards obert Durst, an eccentric millionaire from one many people who’ve investigated him have of America’s wealthiest families, was arrested dropped the ball, but I think that luck may be run- uilding on its strong product Hoven continues: “Out of love for on a murder warrant just before Sunday’s ning out,” said Former Galveston County District innovation and consumer skin; this motto is the engine that- R finale of a serial documentary about his links to Court Judge Susan Criss, who presided over the Bcarefocus across all its prod- powers our development of innova- three sensational killings. FBI agents arrested Durst Texas murder trial. uct categories, Beiersdorf tion. These awards recognize our at a New Orleans hotel Saturday on a warrant from MENAisdelightedto announce that constant aim to achieve the most Los Angeles for the murder of a mobster’s daughter Suicidal mother its NIVEA SUN Protect & Bronze cutting edge but also most caring 15 years ago, authorities said. The Durst family is worth at least $4 billion, Range, NIVEA MEN Sensitive Range, protection for our customers.” Durst was ordered held without bond pending according to the Forbes list of richest Americans. NIVEA Creme Care Shower and A carefully selected committee another hearing. His lawyer, Chip Lewis, said Durst The oldest son of the late real estate mogul NIVEA Cocoa Butter Body Lotion & made up of renowned experts from will agree to be taken to Los Angeles to face the Seymour Durst, whose Durst Corporation manages Body Cream have all won con- various fields including industrial, first-degree murder charge. Durst participated in 1 World Trade Center, Robert Durst became sumers’ hearts this year - and victo- marketing and mediaselect the the documentary, giving an extensive interview to estranged from his family when his brother ryat the esteemedProduct of the range of products which are entered filmmaker Andrew Jarecki for “The Jinx: The Life Douglas was chosen instead of him to run the fami- Year 2015 Gulf Edition awards. into the categories. A survey is then and Deaths of Robert Durst.” But Lewis said nothing ly business. Robert Durst had known tragedy from Commenting on the awards, sent out to a representative sample his client revealed changes his innocence. Durst’s an early age - when he was 7, his father called him Patrick Hoven, Marketing Director of consumers who provide detailed estranged and fearful relatives thanked authorities onto the roof of a building to try to persuade his Beiersdorf Middle East & North feedback and the products with the for tracking him down. Africa, said: “We are very proud to best comments and most votes from “We are relieved and also grateful to everyone have won the awards. It is a great which prove to be a winning formu- through an independent process. the public are the winners in each who assisted in the arrest of Robert Durst. We hope acknowledgment that NIVEA is the la to win consumer’s hearts.” The products must demonstrate category. The awards play a pivotal he will finally be held accountable for all he has preferred and most trusted skin care Founded in 1987, the ‘Product of innovation in design, function, and role in reinforcing the importance of done,” said his brother, Douglas Durst, in a state- brand. We stand by our values of the Year Awards’, recognises the best packaging and must have been competition among top brands in ment. Durst, 71, has always maintained his inno- closeness, trust and reliable care new products on the market launched within the last 18 months. the Middle East. cence in the 2000 murder of Susan Berman, whose father was an associate of Las Vegas mobsters Bugsy Siegel and Meyer Lansky.

Additional evidence Centrepoint pledges its Berman, a writer who become Durst’s spokes- woman, was killed at her home with a bullet to the back of her head as New York investigators pre- pared to question her in the unsolved 1982 disap- support to women this March pearance of Durst’s wife, Kathleen. The climax of last week’s episode revealed a hand-written elebrating the significant sacrifices, effort have found that 73% of our sales are attributed upon these trends we found it important to cel- address on a letter, recovered by the slain woman’s and dedication that our mothers, wives, towards men’s, children’s and home products. ebrate women and put them at the centre of relative, that Durst had sent to Berman. The hand- daughters and sisters make every So while the woman within the family shops our attention and offerings for an entire month. C writing seems virtually identical to an anonymous moment of everyday is reduced to just two more often at Centrepoint, she is often found This is a modest effort on our behalf to encour- letter alerting Beverly Hills police to a “cadaver” in days of every year. Undoubtedly not nearly shopping for everyone else in her life. Based age everyone to participate in a month long Berman’s home. Even the word “Beverly” is mis- enough time to fully appreciate these heroes in appreciation of women.” spelled as “Beverley” on both documents. our lives. Centrepoint - the region’s largest fami- Through a social-media led campaign, cus- Durst observes in the documentary that only ly fashion retailer - has announced its pledge tomers will be encouraged to take the pledge Berman’s killer could have sent the letter to police. towards women in the region during the In this Aug 15, 2014 file photo, New York and share this pledge towards the special The Los Angeles Police said the arrest resulted from month of March. The retail giant has launched a women in their lives across social media City real estate heir Robert Durst leaves a “investigative leads and additional evidence that Houston courtroom. — AP series of contests, discounts and videos set to through #IPledgetoMom. Those who takes the has come to light in the last year.” Lewis said he has celebrate women for an entire month in order pledge stands the chance to win Centrepoint no doubt the arrest was orchestrated in coordina- suicidal mother not to jump. He left before seeing to encourage shoppers in the region to pledge gift vouchers. Further expanding upon activa- tion with HBO’s broadcast of the final episode. After her fall. In 1982, Robert Durst reported that his wife, their love, support and time to women that tions for the month, Talreja notes that “We hope Berman’s death, Durst moved to Texas, where he Kathie, had suddenly disappeared from their cot- make their lives special. to make this initiative viral and spread lived as a mute woman in a boarding house until tage in New York state. No one was ever charged. Starting from 15th March right upto 18th #IPledgetoMom in order to give back to the his arrest in 2001 after dismembered parts of the More recently, Douglas Durst has said he fears March, all children aged 8 -12 years are invited women who have made an impact on us. We body of his elderly neighbor, Morris Black, were his brother would kill him. Robert Durst has denied to all Centrepoint outlets across Kuwait to par- have also created two videos - one for Women’s found floating in Galveston Bay. that. But in 2012 and 2013, his family members had ticipate in a card marking competition. Cards and one for Mother’s March with the intention Durst then became a fugitive until he was restraining orders taken out against him. In 2013, will be available at the outlets from 5:00pm of spreading this message further to our fans. caught shoplifting in Pennsylvania, even though Durst tried unsuccessfully to claim $82,000 from his onwards daily and children can draw or paint We are proud to announce that we will be tying he had $500 cash in his pocket and $37,000 in his missing wife’s estate, even though his personal net their messages for their mothers. Three selected up with Kris Fade from the 15th to the 21st of rental car - along with two guns and marijuana. worth has been estimated at about $100 million. winners will be announced on 21st March from March, he will be motivating his fans to take the Lewis told the jury that Durst shot Black in self- “The story is so operatic,” Jarecki told the AP before 4:30pm - 7:00 pm at Centrepoint - The Avenues. pledge for Mother’s Day. Fans that take the defense and suffered from Asperger’s syndrome. his documentary aired. Jarecki told a fictionalized The winners of this competition will win special pledge also stand the chance to win plane tick- Despite admitting that he used a paring knife, two version of Durst’s story in “All Good Things,” a 2010 gift hampers for their mothers from Lifestyle. ets to fly their mothers to Dubai.” Take the saws and an axe to dismember Black’s body film starring Ryan Gosling. Then he got a call from Commenting upon this initiative, Vinod Talreja - pledge and share it with #IPledgetoMom this before dumping the remains, Durst was acquitted Durst himself, who wanted to see it and eventually the Director of Centrepoint - states that “while March for all the women that have impacted of murder. Durst “has been incredibly lucky that so agreed to talk on camera. — AP women make up 70% of our customer base we your life and continue to do so every day. lifestyle TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015

Fashion

Models display creations by Japanese designer Hiroki Uemura during the ‘byU’ 2015-16 autumn/winter collection at Tokyo Fashion Week yesterday. — AP/AFP photos Tokyo Fashion Week opens with petal-strewn labyrinth runway

okyo Fashion Week opened yesterday first of 52 brands exhibiting at Tokyo this Models display on a floral, fairy tale-inspired note, as a week, six of which are from outside Japan. creations by Tpopular brand from Thailand turned the Akiko Shinoda, director of international affairs Japanese catwalk into a labyrinth strewn with petals. at Japan Fashion Week Organization, said designer Organizers of the line-up chose Thai label each brand featuring on the runway would Motohiro Tanji. Sretsis-”sisters” written backwards-for the be “completely different-there’s no one theme opening display in the trendy Shibuya dis- or concept”. Tokyo Fashion Week is largely trict, in a bid to underline Tokyo’s leading seen as a launchpad for edgy young design- position in the Asian fashion scene. With ers, not yet attracting the big names seen at whimsical chiffon dresses, a fox-shaped hood- Milan, Paris, London and New York. ie-shawl and hand-crocheted fruit earrings, Established Japanese designers such as creative director Pim Sukhahuta told Yohji Yamamoto, Junya Watanabe and Rei reporters after the show that she wanted to Kawakubo, founder of Comme des Garcons, create “treasurable, not trendy, but timeless all show their collections in Paris. Shinoda pieces”. said Tokyo maintained its position at the helm “It’s my own imagined labyrinth,” she said of Asian fashion thanks to its strong street of her Autumn/Winter 2015 collection, which style, which is “edgy and punk”, but she is filled with “flowers, fruits, strawberries, warned that other regional centers were grapes and strange monsters that are also catching up.”The Thai government has invest- friendly”. The show heavily featured a large- ed so much in fashion,” she told AFP, calling scale “fantasy labyrinth” print on silk chiffon for more “incubation programs” to develop and a German-made wool-blend that looks new Japanese talent. “At the moment Tokyo is like fur and is used in Steiff teddy bears. “I like number one, but we have to keep up the something young and cute and playful but at effort.”— AFP the same time with a more sophisticated sense,” she said, summing up the idea as “fairytales for grown-ups”. Sukhahuta began designing clothes for her sisters, who are also involved in the Sretsis label, which launched in 2002. It is the lifestyle TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015 Fashion

Models display creations by Thai designer Pim Sukhahuta.

Rihanna

becomes face op star Rihanna has added another lucrative sponsorship deal to her portfolio, and not just any brand: the Barbadian singer is the new face Pof a Dior advertising campaign. The French fashion house confirmed to AFP yesterday that Rihanna is “the new guest star for our ‘Secret Garden’ of Dior s new campaign”, a promotional video and print series shot at the famous ’ Versailles Palace outside Paris. In the production, made last week by US photographer Steven Klein, the 27-year-old star shows off Dior’s new “Esprit Dior Tokyo” collection. The collection campaign will be screened within the next couple of months. The “Secret Garden” campaign has been running for three years, and is mostly meant for online viewing. The Dior spokeswoman declined to give details about Rihanna’s contract or how long she would be endorsing the house’s collection. Dior has tapped other celebrities to sell its products, including actress Natalie Portman, who fronts its Miss Dior perfume line, and Oscar-winning French actress Marion Cotillard, who promoted its Lady Dior handbags. — AFP

This file photo taken on February 28, 2014 in Paris shows Barbadian singer Rihanna posing as she arrives to attend Christian Dior’s 2014/2015 Autumn/Winter ready-to-wear collection fashion show.—AFP Tokyo Fashion Week opens with petal-strewn 38labyrinth runway TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2015

Cosplayers dressed in fancy costumes pose in exhibition halls during the Manga-Comic-Convention at the Leipzig International Book Fair in Leipzig, Germany, Sunday. — AP photos

South African woman celebrates 100th birthday with a skydive

elebrating her 100th birthday with a parachute jump is not enough for bers and friends who participated in groups of three. Harwood said it was South African Georgina Harwood. She plans to make her centenary even wonderful seeing all the others around her. Harwood said this was her third Cmore exciting by doing a shark cage dive. Her birthday skydive was a skydive. She did her first when she was 92 years old in 2007. In a shark cage tandem jump in which she was in harness with another person. The jump took dive the participant goes underwater in a cage in an area where sharks are fed place Saturday near the Melkbosstrand area north of Cape Town. chum, bits of cut up fish meat, by tour operators.-AP Wearing a red jumpsuit, Harwood was joined in the air by 15 family mem-

Centenarian Georgina Harwood, fore- Centenarian Georgina Harwood, fore- ground, in mid air with Jason Baker. ground, prepares with Jason Baker, for her Centenarian Georgina Harwood, sits inside an airplane with Jason Baker, Centenarian Georgina Harwood, foreground, gestures as she lands with tandem parachute jump forming part of right, before her tandem parachute jump. Jason Baker. her birthday celebrations, in Cape Town, South Africa. — AP photos

‘Have you eaten your food yet? Malaysians’ way to greet each other

alaysians tend to greet people differently, by asking Asking someone if they have eaten their meal has been (known as Chef Wan), on his part, said that the easiest way to between family. She also expressed her admiration for the ‘Have you eaten your food yet?’ before or after the going on for long years in the country as being a way of befriend Malaysians is by inviting them to a meal or accept- people’s gatherings at food tables in restaurants to discuss Mregular “Hello” greeting people are used to, a phrase strengthening relations between people and show hospitali- ing their invitation. Food culture forms the Malaysian identi- daily life issues and watch sport events such as football and that usually angers tourists who consider it interference in ty, Professor of cultural communication at a Malaysian univer- ty, he noted, adding that gathering for meals is famous in his badminton. — KUNA their personal affairs. This phrase is a conversation starter in sity told KUNA yesterday. Food has become part of local and country especially in different religious occasions for all eth- Malaysia which has a rich food culture with the presence of international cultures, he said, calling on tourists to take the nic groups. American tourist Jessica O’Neil wrote in her blog different cuisines representing the country’s ethnicities’ phrase as a friendly gesture. that she was surprised by the question at first, but then real- including Malay, Indian and Chinese. Top Malaysian Chef and Comedian Redzuawan Ismail ized the friendliness of the sentence, feeling at home and