TWITTER SPORTS @newsofbahrain OP-ED 8 Trump’s order to kill Qassem Suleimani is on solid constitutional ground INSTAGRAM Bahraini team make /nobmedia 6 strong start at 2020 LINKEDIN MONDAY newsofbahrain JANUARY 2020 210 FILS WHATSAPP ISSUE NO. 8348 JCW X-Raid 38444692 Team made a strong start FACEBOOK yesterday to the 2020 /nobmedia Dakar Rally, which is being MAIL held for the first time in [email protected] . WEBSITE P16 newsofbahrain.com

JLo invited to Washington by Ruth Bader Ginsburg 14 CELEBS WORLD 5 Britain’s navy to escort ships through Hormuz

LIC (INTERNATIONAL) IN BAHRAIN FOR 30 Bahrain’s unwavering support to OIC stressed YEARS AT YOUR SERVICE Manama Othaimeen’s dedicated efforts between the Kingdom of Bahrain is Majesty King Hamad to enhance the OIC work pro- and the Organisation of Islamic bin Isa Al Khalifa com- cedures and performance and Cooperation (OIC), in addition to Hmended the pivotal role strengthen co-operation be- other key Islamic and regional of the Organisation of Islamic tween Islamic countries in the issues. Cooperation (OIC) in advocat- economic, cultural, scientific Dr Al Othaimeen expressed ing the issues that concern the and religious fields. deepest thanks to HM the King Islamic nation, strengthening HM the King reiterated Bah- for the warm welcome and good solidarity between member rain’s unwavering support to the hospitality, hailing Bahrain’s piv- Pompeo hails countries, coordinating their organisation and commitment to otal role, led by HM the King, stances, unifying their efforts its noble principles to continue as well as its contributions to Bahrain stances and defending the true image of its role in consolidating joint Islamic issues and the OIC activ- Islam, based on tolerance and His Majesty receives Dr Al Othaimeen. Islamic work towards achieving ities on all levels. moderation. the goals and serving the inter- He lauded Bahrain’s initiatives He made the statement as he aimeen, marking his visit to the him on the OIC 50th anniversary, ests of its member countries and to nurture the values of toler- received yesterday, at Al Safriya Kingdom of Bahrain. lauding the pan-Islamic organi- peoples. ance and moderation and build Palace, OIC Secretary-General HM the King welcomed Dr Al sation’s important achievements. The meeting focused also on bridges between the followers of Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al Oth- Othaimeen and congratulated He also commended Dr Al reviewing aspects of cooperation different religions and cultures.

Pompeo Huge traffic snarl TDT | Manama • Iran has previously S Secretary of State Mike violated the terms of UPompeo has hailed Bah- the 2015 deal enacted to rain stances in light of recent ‘No nuke limit its nuclear capacity. regional developments. “Bahraini Crown Prince Tehran and I underscored the im- portance of countering Iran’s malign influence and threats ran said on Sunday that it limits now’ to the region. I thanked him plans further roll back its for his partnership in pro- commitments to a 2015 nu- tecting American personnel Iclear deal signed with global Iran retreats further from 2015 nuclear and facilities in Bahrain,” he powers but would continue to tweeted yesterday. cooperate with the UN nuclear deal amid increased US tensions Appearing on CNN’s State watchdog, the IAEA. of the Union, the secretary The country’s state television Guard Corps’ foreign opera- was immediately pressed by cited a government statement as tions branch, the Quds Force, host Jake Tapper on Trump’s saying Iran would not respect was killed in a US rocket strike at Saturday night tweet warn- any limits set down in the pact Baghdad International Airport ing Iran that America is on the number of uranium en- on Friday. prepared to hit non-military richment centrifuges it could 5,000 The head of the Tehran-backed cultural targets if Iran were use. American troops remain militia Kataib Hizbollah, Abu to retaliate. This means that there would in Iraq, most in an Mahdi Al Muhandis, was also “We will defend Ameri- be no limits on Iran’s enrichment advisory role. killed in the strike – ordered by ca, and the strikes that we capacity, the level to which urani- US President Donald Trump. took over this past week, in- um could be enriched, or its nu- Separately, The Associated cluding killing the terrorist clear research and development. Press reported that there were Soleimani and we will con- These would from now on be the terms of the 2015 deal enact- several air strikes that targeted tinue to take if we need to. If based on Iran’s technical needs. ed to limit its nuclear capacity. It Iraqi militias north of Baghdad we need to defend the Amer- However, the report said Teh- says it is a response to renewed on Friday. ican interest, we will do so,” ran’s rolling back of its nuclear US sanctions on the country. The US has, however, denied Pompeo insisted. “What commitments could be reversible The move comes after Qa- responsibility for those attacks. President Trump said last if the US lifts its sanctions. sseum Soleimani, the head of The deaths of the two generals night is consistent with what Iran has previously violated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary have brought tensions between we have said all along.” Tehran and Washington to new heights. Iran has said it will re- spond to the US air strikes with “harsh revenge”. Already, several rockets launched in Baghdad late on Saturday fell inside or near the Green Zones, which DON’T MISS IT houses government offices and PIC BY SATHYAN PERAMBRA foreign offices, including the US Heavy rain brought traffic in Manama and neighbouring areas to its knees embassy. yesterday. Hundreds of motorists were stuck in the tailback. They had to Strong Egypt Some 5,000 US troops remain wait for hours to get the line cleared. Among the most affected were citizens in Iraq, most in an advisory and residents returning from workplaces. Showers are expected to continue 02 ties stressed role. But earlier on Sunday, today as well. The General Directorate of Traffic has urged drivers to be Iraq’s parliament voted in fa- cautious of the rain and follow the safety rules, including staying in the Bahrain Embassy vour of the expulsion of foreign correct lane, not exceeding the speed limits and keeping the safety distance ‘assisting citizens A view of the water nuclear reactor at Arak, Iran. troops from the country. between vehicles. See Page 2 03 leave Iraq’ amid escalating DRONE STRIKE tensions Asian bought 3,000 narcotic Saudi ‘not consulted’ US strike,” the official said, re- at the weekend and King Sal- the situation and de-escalate ten- 04 pills ‘only to cure questing anonymity. man emphasised the need for sions,” the official Saudi Press headache’ audi Arabia was not consult- “In light of the rapid devel- measures to defuse tensions in a Agency reported. ed by Washington over the opments, the kingdom stresses The Kingdom of phone call on Saturday with Iraqi The crown prince has instruct- US drone strike that killed the importance of exercising re- President Barham Saleh. ed Prince Khalid bin Salman, the 210 fils (includes VAT) S Saudi Arabia was not Qassem Soleimani, an official straint to guard against all acts In a separate phone call with deputy defence minister, to trav- from the Kingdom told AFP Sun- that may lead to escalation, with consulted regarding the Iraq’s Prime Minister Adel Ab- el to Washington and London day. severe consequences.” US strike. del Mahdi, Saudi Crown Prince in the next few days to urge “The kingdom of Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry SAUDI OFFICIAL Mohammed bin Salman stressed restraint, the Asharq Al-Awsat was not consulted regarding the made a similar call for restraint “the need to make efforts to calm newspaper reported. MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 02

HRH Crown Prince edict to follow up on renewable energy efficiency plans Manama Projects, representing Electric- The Assistant Undersecretary Head of the Committee will ity and Water Authority (EWA), for Housing Projects, represent- prevail. is Royal Highness The Assistant Undersecretary ing the Housing Ministry, The The Committee presents its Prince Salman bin for Domestic and Foreign Trade, Director of Privatisation and recommendations to the Higher HHamad Al Khalifa, representing the Ministry of In- Outsourcing, representing the Committee for Natural Resourc- Crown Prince, Deputy Su - dustry, Commerce and Tourism, Ministry of Finance and a rep- es and Economic Security for preme Commander, First Dep- The Assistant Undersecretary resentative from the Office of approval or decision. uty Prime Minister, issued Edict for Industrial Development, the First Deputy Prime Minister A representative of the United 1/2020 to establish National Im- representing the Ministry of (OFDPM). The membership in Nations Development Program plementation Follow up Com- Industry, Commerce and Tour- the committee will be for a term is invited to the meetings. Edict His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, mittee for the National Action ism, The Assistant Undersec- of three years renewable. 1/2017 to form a Committee to Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, yesterday Plans on Renewable Energy and retary for Air Transport and The Committee meets period- follow up the implementation of received the Ambassador of the Italian Republic, Domenico Bellato, at Riffa Energy Efficiency. Aviation Safety and Security, ically once every three months the National Energy Efficiency Palace, to mark the end of the Ambassador’s service in the Kingdom. HRH The committee will comprise: representing the Ministry of at the invitation of its president. Action Plan and the National the Crown Prince highlighted the strength of ties between Bahrain and The President of Sustainable Transportation and Telecom- The meetings are not valid un- Renewable Energy Action Plan across various sectors, which have facilitated a wide-range of investment Energy Authority (SEA), presi- munication, The Assistant less the majority of its members and their initiatives is repealed. opportunities benefiting both countries. HRH the Crown Prince recognised dent of the committee, The CEO Undersecretary for Technical are present, provided that the The edict stated that the min- the Ambassador’s efforts in further enhancing bilateral relations, and wished him success in his future endeavours. A number of regional and international of the National Oil and Gas Au- Services, representing the Min- president is among them. isters, each in his respective ca- issues of common interest were also discussed during the meeting. For his thority (NOGA), representing istry of Works, Municipal Af- The Committee will take its pacity, will implement this edict part, Mr Bellato expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet HRH the NOGA, The CEO of the Supreme fairs and Urban Planning, The decisions and recommendations that will come into effect on Crown Prince, and noted HRH’s continued support to bolstering Bahrain-Italy Council for the Environment Assistant Undersecretary for by the majority of the votes of the day following the date of relations. The Minister of Finance and National Economy, Shaikh Salman bin (SCE), representing SCE, The Joint Municipal Services, rep- the members present. In case its publication in the Official Khalifa Al Khalifa, also attended the meeting. Deputy CEO of Planning and resenting the Works Ministry, votes are equal, the side of the Gazette. ‘BDF steadily moving towards Strong Egypt ties stressed highest military levels’ ‘Bahrain-Egypt ties a model in bilateral relations to be emulated’ Manama

peaker of the Council of Representatives, Fawzia Bahrain has become SZainal, has affirmed that the a leader in ensuring deep-rooted Bahraini-Egyptian women their full rights ties are a distinguished role model thanks to the National for relations between countries. Action Charter which In an interview with the Egyp- guaranteed their tian “Al Akhbar” newspaper, the effective participation Marshal Shaikh Khalifa chairs the meeting. speaker stressed that Bahraini women are lucky because the in public life. Manama kingdom’s leadership believes in MS ZAINAL readiness and ensure the nec- Ministry’s Undersecretary the importance of their role and ahrain Defence Force essary preparations by all units Major-General Shaikh Ahmed influence in society, and therefore bin Isa Al Khalifa’s Accession to tainable development march, (BDF) is steadily mov- in accordance with the highest bin Mohammed Al Khalifa paved the way for them to assume the Throne in 1999, HM the King’s alongside men. Bing forward towards the levels of modern and advanced and Naval Captain HH Shaikh their responsibilities in building Reform Project was launched, She affirmed that Bahrain highest standards of military armament and careful training. Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al the nation. and provided Bahraini women has become a leader in ensuring advancement and administra- This empowers them to carry Khalifa. They are also lucky because the with all the legislative and legal women their full rights thanks tive development thanks to the out all the duties assigned to Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Bahraini citizens have a long his- tools that have consolidated their to the National Action Charter support and directives of His them with competence and ap- was briefed on the various mili- tory of civilisational and cultural role, and contributed to their suc- which guaranteed their effective Majesty King Hamad bin Isa titude, the Commander-in-Chief tary and administrative develop- awareness, which helped women cess in attaining multiple national participation in public life, which Al Khalifa, the Supreme Com- added as he received senior of- ment, preparation and training to participate in public life with achievements. enabled them to prove their dis- mander, and to the dedication ficers at the BDF General Com- plans and programs that con- confidence and competence, she The speaker asserted that tinguished abilities, citing the of its staff, BDF Command- mand. tribute to raising the level of added. the Bahraini Women’s Day is election of the first woman at the er-in-Chief Field Marshal Shai- Present at the meeting were combat and administrative read- She indicated that Bahraini celebrated every December 1 helm of the Council of Represent- kh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa Defence Minister Lieuten- iness within all BDF units. women had joined public edu- to highlight the Bahraini wom- atives, the success of six wom- has said. ant-General Abdullah bin Has- The Commander-in-Chief cation as early as the 1920s, and en’s achievements across vari- en to win six seats at the elected The BDF is fully committed to san A Nuaimi, Chief-of-Staff, wished the officers, each in their then obtained the right to polit- ous fields, noting that Bahraini Representatives Council, and the the implementation of the HM Lieutenant-General Theyab respective capacity, success in ical participation, stressing that women have become basic appointment of nine women as the King to boost the level of bin Saqr Al Nuaimi, Defence the service of the Kingdom. after His Majesty King Hamad partners in the kingdom’s sus- members of the Shura Council.

Turkish decision to send Rain affects normal life across the Kingdom troops to Libya rapped TDT | Manama Manama comprehensive settlement and the restoration of the national eavy down- he Ministry of Foreign state and its institutions, in order pour affected Affairs of the Kingdom of for it to play its role in achieving Hnormal life TBahrain has condemned development and prosperity for across the Kingdom the decision of the Republic of the brotherly Libyan people. yesterday. Turkey to send military forces to Libya’s eastern-based Par- Many areas were the state of Libya, stressing that liament yesterday rejected an flooded and Works this decision is a rejected inter- agreement that would allow Ministry teams instant- ference in the internal affairs of Ankara to send troops to Libya. ly got into action to Libya and a violation of interna- The Libyan House of Rep- drain water from roads. tional legitimacy and relevant resentatives (HoR) in Tobruk Huge traffic Security Council resolutions. voted against a deployment re- jams were reported It added that the decision con- quested by the UN-backed Gov- throughout the coun- tradicts with the Arab stance ernment of National Accord try with many waiting adopted by the Arab League on (GNA). for hours to get the December 31, 2019, and impedes The Western-based GNA had lines cleared. efforts to restore peace and sta- asked for military help from Tur- In a statement is- bility throughout Libya. key, and the parliament in Anka- sued, the Ministry of The Ministry of Foreign Af- ra on Thursday voted in favour Interior asked motor- fairs urges the international of the deployment of troops. ists to exercise care community to fulfil its respon- As well as voting against the while adhering to sibilities in addressing this de- deployment and cooperation traffic rules and regu- velopment, which constitutes a with Turkey, the HoR also voted lations. threat to Arab national security unanimously to refer GNA Prime The Meteorological and to the entire region. Minister Fayez Serraj to be pros- Directorate has fore- It stresses the need to back all ecuted for “high treason” because cast a cloudy weather efforts to eliminate terrorism of the deals signed with Ankara today with scattered and deter all terrorist organ- under his watch. The Libyan PIC BY FABI PIC BY PRADEEP PURAVANKARA rain showers that may Children play in puddle after heavy showers yesterday. A co-worker holds an umbrella for a mechanic who is repairing a isations in Libya and support deputies also voted to cut rela- become thundery. car at a workshop near Zinj. international efforts seeking a tions with Turkey. MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 03 Bahrain Embassy ‘assisting citizens leave Iraq’ amid escalating tensions All Bahraini citizens in Iraq will receive required attention and support, says Kingdom’s embassy

ican troops from the country, pacity to conduct training with There had been fears stepping up pressure over the US partners and to support their • killing of a top Iranian general operations against Daesh and of a volley of rocket in Baghdad. we have therefore paused these attacks following a US installations were also fac- activities, subject to continuous warning from a hard- ing new military stresses, with review,” it said. line Hashed faction for missiles slamming into the There had been fears of a Baghdad enclave where the US volley of rocket attacks follow- Iraqis to move away embassy is located and an air ing a warning from a hard-line from US forces by base north of the capital housing Hashed faction for Iraqis to Sunday afternoon. American troops. move away from US forces by Ties have deteriorated after Sunday afternoon. Iraq’s foreign an American precision drone Already, increased tensions • strike on the Baghdad interna- prompted NATO to suspend its ministry said it tional airport on Friday that training activities in Iraq and had summoned US killed Iran’s Major General Qa- a US defence official told AFP ambassador Matthew ssem Soleimani and top Iraqi American-led coalition forces Tueller to condemn military figure Abu Mahdi Al would “limit” operations. Muhandis. Iraq’s foreign ministry said it American strikes on Iraq. Iraq’s foreign ministry sum- had summoned US ambassador moned the US ambassador, while Matthew Tueller to condemn TDT | Manama caretaker premier Adel Abdel Iraqi lawmakers convened to vote on US troop presence in Iraq yesterday. American strikes on Iraq. Mahdi attended an extraordi- “They were a blatant viola- ahrain Embassy in Iraq nary parliamentary session to he told MPs: either immediate- long sought the US’s exit. tion of Iraqi sovereignty,” the has been receiving calls slam the strike as a “political ly voting for foreign troops to “If US forces do end up with- ministry said in a statement, Bfrom citizens, who want- assassination.” leave or revisiting their man- The Kingdom also drawing, it could grant Soleim- and “contradict the agreed-upon ed to return to the Kingdom He joined 168 lawmakers — date through a parliamentary stresses the importance ani a post-humous victory,” missions of the international following escalation of clashes just enough for quorum in Iraq’s process. of immediate action Warrick told AFP. coalition.” in the country. 329-seat parliament — to discuss Hard-line parliamentarians to be taken by the As the session got under way, The ministry also said it sub- The embassy stated that it the removal of US troops. with ties to the Hashed Al Shaa- the US-led coalition announced mitted complaints to the United is working with an airlines to Some 5,200 US soldiers are bi military force, which is close international community it was suspending its Iraq op- Nations Security Council over ensure their safe return to the stationed across Iraqi bases to to Iran, had demanded a tougher to ensure security and erations due to deadly rocket the strikes, asking it to condemn Kingdom as soon as possible. support local troops preventing decision calling for the imme- stability in the region. attacks on their bases. Soleimani’s death as an “assas- “All Bahraini citizens in Iraq a resurgence of Daesh. diate expulsion of all foreign FOREIGN MINISTRY “This has limited our ca - sination.” will receive required attention They are deployed as part of troops. and support,” the embassy stat- the broader international coa- No Kurdish and most Sun- ed. lition, invited by the Iraqi gov- ni MPs boycotted the session The Ministry of Foreign Af- ernment in 2014 to help fight as they were more support- fairs has warned citizens against Daesh. ive of a US troop presence, travelling to Iraq amidst the re- “The parliament has voted to seen as a counterweight to cent developments. commit the Iraqi government to Iran. “The Kingdom of Bahrain is cancel its request to the interna- They had been threatened following the development of tional coalition for help to fight by Hashed-linked MPs, who events in the brotherly Republic IS,” speaker Mohammed Hal- said they would be seen as of Iraq that came as a result of busi announced, using another having “betrayed” Iraq if the condemned terrorist acts acronym for Daesh. they boycotted. which the Kingdom previously The cabinet would have to Tom Warrick, a former US denounced, stressing the need approve any decision but the official and current fellow to de-escalate in order to over- premier had earlier indicated at the Atlantic Council, said come this period, and to address support for a removal. Soleimani and pro-Iran fac- all forms of violence, extrem- “We face two main choices,” tions within the Hashed had ism and terrorism,” the ministry stated. “The Kingdom also stresses INTERNAL MEDICINE & RHEUMATOLOGY the importance of immediate Gulf Air to evacuate Improving Quality of Life action to be taken by the inter- national community, affirming Management of cases: the need to take all necessary citizens from Iraq Diabetes & its Complications Rheumatoid Arthritis measures to ensure security and Manama Gastrointestinal Disorder SLE (Lupus) stability in the region because yesterday, Gulf Air said that Thyroid & Endocrine Disorder Gout of its vital and strategic impor- work is underway with the Coronary Artery Disease Ankylosing Spondylitis tance for the whole world,” it ahrain’s national carrier Iraqi relevant agencies, in Hypertensive Emergencies Back Pain added. BGulf Air, announced that co-ordination with the For- Lipid Disorder Scleroderma Meanwhile, Iraq’s parliament it would provide flights to eign Ministry, represented by Kidney Disorder Osteoporosis yesterday urged the government evacuate its passengers from Bahrain’s Embassy in Bagh- Obesity & Life Style Disorder Polymyositis & Dermatomyositis to remove thousands of Amer- Iraq. In a statement issued dad. Rheumatological Disorder Fibromyalgia & Connective Infectious Disease Tissue Disorder Chest Disease Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Proposal to reduce Ramadan working hours rejected TDT | Manama DR. HASSAN YOUSIF ABDELRAHMAN DR. NANDHA KUMAR government committee that ex- as well.” MBBS, MRCP(UK), MSc, Fellowship in Rheumatology MBBS, MD, PGDDM (CARDIFF-UK) Diabetology amined the proposal stated that Currently, the working hours Consultant - Internal Medicine & Specialist – Internal Medicine parliamentary proposal such a change would negatively at government bodies such as Rheumatology to reduce the number of impact the quality of services ministries, public authorities Aworking hours to four provided to citizens during the and institutions is from 8 am and a half hours in government month of Ramadan. to 2pm. offices during Ramadan has The committee stated that The Daily Tribune reported been rejected by the Govern- the reduction is too much and previously that MPs were lob- ment. could not be approved. “The bying to reduce the number Parliamentarians wanted to reduction is too high and not of working hours in Ramadan. reduce the number of working needed at the time. According to the MPs, the hours in government offices “Such a change could have working hours needed to be from six hours to four and a repercussions for citizens as reduced as the employees at half hours. well. The change would put government institutions would However, the proposal was pressure on the private sector be observing fast in Ramadan rejected by the government. A to reduce the working hours and needed more rest time. MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 04

Duo jailed for blocking public road Asian bought 3,000 narcotic TDT | Manama

he High Criminal TCourt has sentenced two Bahraini men to three years each for set- pills ‘only to cure headache’ ting tyres on fire to block a public road. Ironically, the duo re- Defendant was arrested at Bahrain International Airport upon his arrival from home country portedly told Prosecutors that they had committed n Asian man justified The customs official who in- gage. their crime in support of The pills were hidden having 3,000 narcotic itially doubted him told Pros- “I thought the pills would Palestine. along• with several other Apills in his possession ecutors that the defendant’s cure my headache. This is why According to court as he needed them to cure his I thought the pills would behaviour was suspicious and I bought them for BD500,” the files, the pair set the tyres items in his luggage. headache, the High Criminal cure my headache and I thus they decided to extensively Asian man revealed. alight on May 30 last year Court heard. bought them for BD500. search him as well as his lug- Further investigations uncov- after a riot broke out in “I only bought the pills to re- gage. the area. Further DEFENDANT ered that he was aiming to sell investigations• uncovered lieve my pain,” the defendant “We asked him if he was car- the pills inside Bahrain. It’s said that other un- told Prosecutors. rying any banned substances. The defendant is being tried known men took part in that he was aiming to sell The Asian man was arrested at Prosecution and he was charged And he said no,” the officer told before the High Criminal Court the event, but their iden- the pills in the Kingdom. Bahrain International Airport by with attempting to smuggle the Prosecutors. which adjourned the case un- tity remains undiscov- customs officials. pills into Bahrain with the inten- The pills were hidden along til January 17, 2020, to issue its ered as police investiga- TDT | Manama He was referred to the Public tion to sell them. with several items in his lug- verdict. tions identified only the convicted pair. “We wanted to support Palestine, this is why we decided to block the State-of-the-art expo, convention centre ‘to be completed in 2022’ roads so people give at- tention to their case,” the Manama first defendant said.

orks, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Mental health WPlanning Minister, test for robbery Essam Khalaf, and Industry, Commerce and Tourism Minis- suspects ter, Zayed Al Zayani, has signed TDT | Manama a contract to build the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre in Sakhir. he High Criminal In a statement to the Bahrain TCourt has ordered News Agency (BNA), Industry for a man and his uncle Minister said that the project to be mentally evaluated had been awarded by the Tender after they were arrested Board to Cebarco Bahrain S.P.C, for committing robberies. noting that the facility will be The duo were nabbed completed by mid 2022. after an Asian man report- Located next to the Bahrain ed to police that he was International Circuit in Sakhir, robbed by two men, who the new 308,000-sq-m interna- posed as police officers tional exhibition and convention in plain clothes before centre will be built on a 1.3-mil- Mr Khalaf, Mr Al Zayani and other senior government officials at the meeting. stealing his valuables and lion-square metre land lot, and fleeing the scene. will be five times as big as the Works Minister affirmed that metres along with all the neces- a total area of about 1,700 sq m, The new exhibition and The uncle is in his thir- current exhibition centre in San- the project will serve the exhi- sary services, in addition to areas as well as two Majlises for VIPs. convention centre, with a ties while the other de- abis, the minister said, adding bitions sector, and develop the dedicated for retail and events. The centre will also include an 149,000-square-metre built fendant is only 18 years that the project will be the larg- national economy, as it will cre- The facility will also include external gate, rooms for guards area, was designed and super- of age. est of its kind in the region, and ate more jobs and attract more a 4,500-sq-m conference hall and control, and parking lots that vised by the German consultant During investigations, will consolidate the kingdom’s investments to the kingdom. which will be divided into three can accommodate up to 16,00 Co KG and Tilke GmbH, who the pair blamed each status as a leading tourism and He said that the new centre separate hi-tech rooms, in addi- vehicles. The parking lots of the also designed and oversaw the other for the robberies commercial destination in the will include 10 exhibition halls tion to 27 small and medium con- sports city will also be used as implementation of the Bahrain they committed with near future. with a total area of 95,000 square ference and meeting rooms with additional parking facilities. International Circuit. the 18-year-old boy tell- ing Prosecutors that he wouldn’t have done them without being asked by his uncle. Saudi, Bahraini Customs sign deal to enhance trade “My uncle came to me and told me that we Riyadh ing of the agreement reinforced the would go and rob Asian historical relationship between the men. I told him that I audi and Bahraini Customs have two countries, which was witnessing didn’t want to join him. signed in Riyadh an agreement of a remarkable development in all areas But he convinced me to Smutual recognition of the Author- of customs. accompany him. There- ised Economic Operator Programme Mr Al Haqbani said that one of the fore, I went with him,” (AEO). most important goals achieved by the the 18-year-old boy told The agreement aims to enhance the mutual recognition agreement is to en- Prosecutors. security of the supply chain and the hance intra-trade and raise the level of “He stopped an Asian advantages of trade facilitation offered trade exchange and overcome obsta- man and attempted to by the AEO. cles that limit the flexibility of trade rob him. He involved me The agreement was signed on the exchange, in addition to strengthen - in the robbery and then Saudi side by Governor of the General ing and consolidating the principle of he gave me BD50,” he Customs Authority Ahmed bin Abdul partnership between customs and the added. Aziz Al Haqbani and on the Bahraini private sector. However, the uncle side by Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al He said that the agreement would blamed his nephew, stat- Khalifa, president of Bahrain Cus - contribute to the growth of the volume ing that the latter was the toms. The agreement aims to enhance the security of the supply chain and the advantages of trade of trade exchange and support the econ- one who incited him to Mr Al Haqbani said that the sign - facilitation offered by the AEO. omy of the two countries. rob the Asian man.

Saudi to participate in anti-corruption conference in Rabat Riyadh Ibrahim Al-Khamous, will head Saudi ruption Convention, follow-ups to the the agenda, is the Kingdom’s invitation as stipulated therein and to recover Arabia’s delegation at the two-day Con- previous meeting, reports and recom- to hold the next session in Riyadh in assets. he Kingdom is taking part in an ference of the States Parties to the Arab mendations. 2022. It also seeks to activate measures anti-corruption conference in Anti-Corruption Convention in Rabat A set of resolutions proposed by The Kingdom joined the Arab An- aimed at preventing, combating, and TMorocco, the Saudi Press Agen- from Jan. 7. member states will be presented to ti-Corruption Convention in 2012. It exposing corruption in all its forms, as cy reported. The conference will discuss a num- the conference for approval. contains provisions concerning pre- well as all related crimes, prosecuting The president of the National An- ber of important topics, including the The conference will elect the pres- ventive measures to prevent corrup- perpetrators and enhancing Arab co- ti-Corruption Commission, Mazen bin implementation of the Arab Anti-Cor- ident of the third session and, also on tion, to determine the criminal acts operation. 05 MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 world

Japanese woman turns 117 years old, extends record as world’s oldest person Britain’s navy to escort ships through Hormuz

Reuters | London “The government will take all necessary steps to protect our ritain’s navy will accom- ships and citizens at this time,” 116-year-old Japanese woman Kane Tanaka celebrates during a ceremony to recognise her as the world’s oldest person pany UK-flagged ships Wallace said in a statement. living and world’s oldest woman living by the Guinness World Records in Fukuoka Bthrough the Strait of Britain was forced to defend Hormuz to provide protection its ships through the world’s Reuters | Tokyo Tanaka, whose birthday was prospects for future economic after the US killing of Iranian most important shipping route on Jan. 2, took a bite from a growth. military commander Qassem last year after Iranian comman- Britain’s defence minister, Ben The number of babies born ane Tanaka has extended slice of her big birthday cake. Soleimani inflamed tensions in dos seized a British-flagged Wallace Kher record as the world’s “Tasty,” she said with a smile. in fell an estimated 5.9% the region. tanker in the Strait. oldest person by celebrating “I want some more.” last year to fewer than 900,000 Britain’s defence minister, British forces had previously Party, said he had written to the her 117th birthday at a nursing Tanaka was last year con - for the first time since the gov- Ben Wallace, ordered the HMS captured an Iranian oil tanker British prime minister to ask home in Fukuoka in southern firmed as the oldest living ernment started compiling data Montrose and HMS Defender near Gibraltar that was accused what was being done to protect Japan. person, aged 116 years 66 days in 1899, according to Japan’s to prepare to return to escort of violating sanctions on Syria. UK nationals and others in the Tanaka marked her birthday old as of March 9, according to welfare ministry. duties in the major oil shipping The killing of Soleimani has region. with a party yesterday along Guinness World Records. Tanaka was born premature- route as Prime Minister Boris raised fears that tankers could “Boris Johnson should have with staff and friends at the Tanaka’s record age is sym- ly in 1903 and married Hideo Johnson came in for criticism be targeted again. immediately cut short his hol- nursing home, television foot- bolic of Japan’s fast-ageing pop- Tanaka in 1922, Guinness World for his silence over the killing. Wallace said he had spoken iday to deal with an issue that age from local broadcaster ulation, which coupled with its Records said. The couple had Media reports have said to his U.S. counterpart, Defe- could have grave consequences TVQ Kyushu Broadcasting Co falling birthrate is raising con- four children and adopted a Johnson is on holiday in the Jeremy Corbyn, the outgoing for the UK and the world,” he showed. cerns about labor shortages and fifth. Caribbean. leader of the opposition Labour said in a statement. Japan ‘Tuna King’ buys new Al-Shabaab jihadists attack year catch for $1.8 million US-Kenya military base

Militants attack Camp• Simba in Manda Bay

The US military command• for Africa, AFRICOM, confirmed the attack

Nairobi

ihadists from Somalia’s Al- JShabaab group yesterday at- tacked a military base used by US and Kenyan forces in Kenya’s coastal Lamu region, the army Al-Shabaab last month detonated a car-bomb in Mogadishu, killing 81 people spokesman said. The strike on the base known He said the fire had been still remnants within,” he said. as Camp Simba in Manda Bay brought under control “and Al-Shabaab claimed respon- near the picturesque tourist standard security procedures sibility for the attack in a state- drawcard of Lamu Island is the are now on-going.” ment, saying it had “successful- Kiyoshi Kimura paid 193 million yen ($1.8 million) to purchase a 276-kilogramme (608-pound) bluefin tuna latest by the group in Kenya The US military command ly stormed the heavily fortified since Nairobi sent troops across for Africa, AFRICOM, confirmed military base and have now Tokyo tuna, caught off the Aomori re- ness a fixture in national news the border in 2011. there had been an attack in a taken effective control of part gion in northern Japan. during this season. Kenya’s army spokesman brief statement. of the base.” “This is the best,” Kimura In last year’s new year auc- Colonel Paul Njuguna said in “US Africa Command ac - The group said there had celebrated Japanese sushi told reporters after the pre- tion, Kimura paid a record a statement that at 5:30am “an knowledges there was an attack been both Kenyan and Amer- Abusinessman, nicknamed dawn auction. $3.1 million to win a 278-kilo- attempt was made to breach at Manda Bay Airfield, Kenya ican casualties, but this could “Tuna King”, paid $1.8 million “Yes, this is expensive, isn’t gramme (612-pound) tuna. security at Manda Air Strip.” and is monitoring the situa - not be immediately verified. for a giant tuna at New Year’s it? I want our customers to eat The traditional auction is “The attempted breach was tion. Al-Shabaab has claimed Al-Shabaab said the attack auction at Tokyo’s main fish very tasty ones this year too,” now being held in a new market successfully repulsed. Four responsibility for the incident. was part of its “Al-Quds (Jeru- market yesterday. he said. in an area called Toyosu. terrorists bodies have so far As facts and details emerge, we salem) shall never be Judaized” Kiyoshi Kimura, who runs Media-savvy Kimura regu- The world-famous Tsukiji been found. The airstrip is safe. will provide an update.” campaign -- a term it first used a successful sushi restaurant larly pays top price at the first market, which had long served Arising from the unsuccessful Lamu County Commissioner during an attack on the upscale chain, paid 193 million yen ($1.8 auction of the year at the Japa- as a popular tourist attraction in breach a fire broke out affecting Irungu Macharia said the as- Dusit hotel complex in Nairobi million) to purchase a 276-kilo- nese capital’s main fish market, an area packed with restaurants some of the fuel tanks located at sailants “have been repulsed.” in January last year that left 21 gramme (608-pound) bluefin making himself and his busi- and shops, closed in 2018. the airstrip.” “We are not sure if there are people dead. MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 06

Cambodia building At least 30 dead in raid on collapse toll hits 29 as Tripoli military school: ministry search enters 3rd day

The military school is• in al-Hadba al-Khadra

The southern part of Tripoli• has seen fierce fighting since last April

More than 280 civilians• and more than 2,000 fighters have been killed since the start of Haftar’s Rescuers are looking for the dead and injured in the rubble of a collapsed assault on Tripoli under-construction hotel in Cambodia

AFP | Tripoli Apart from the 29 dead, Officials had Udong said, 23 survivors were • pulled out. t least 30 people were initially estimated Five children were among killed and dozens in - that 30 workers the dead, according to rescu- Ajured on Saturday in an remained trapped ers. air strike on a military school Cambodia is undergoing a in the Libyan capital Tripoli, a Emergency personnel pull a gurney with a victim on it from an air strike on a military school in the capital Tripoli Five children were construction boom, with ho- ministry spokesman said. • tels, high-rises and casinos “An air raid on the military The GNA health ministry divided between the GNA and Tripoli, according to the Unit- among the dead springing up under little reg- school of Tripoli killed 28 ca- called for blood donors to go rival authorities based in the ed Nations. The fighting has ulatory oversight. dets and injured dozens more,” to hospitals and blood banks to country’s east. also displaced some 146,000 Worker advocacy The tough -- and often dan- Amin al-Hashemi, spokesman help those injured. GNA forces accused those loy- people. groups• point to low gerous -- work is undertak- for the health ministry of the The southern part of Tripoli al to Haftar of the strike, posting The UN Security Council last safety standards en by an estimated 200,000 Government of National Accord has seen fierce fighting since photos of the victims and the month renewed its calls for a construction workers, mostly (GNA) said. last April, when military strong- wounded on Facebook. ceasefire in Libya, and urged that raise the risk unskilled, reliant on day wages At the time of the strike the man Khalifa Haftar began an However, pro-Haftar forces foreign actors to honour an of accidents at and not protected by union cadets were gathered on a pa- offensive against the GNA. have not claimed responsibility arms embargo on the country construction sites rules, according to the Inter- rade ground before going to Libya was plunged into chaos for the attack. -- which , Turkey and national Labour Organisation. their dormitories, he added. with the toppling and killing More than 280 civilians the have Worker advocacy groups Kep | Cambodia The military school is in of longtime dictator Moamer and more than 2,000 fight - regularly violated, according to point to low safety standards al-Hadba al-Khadra, a residen- Kadhafi in a 2011 NATO-backed ers have been killed since the a confidential UN report seen that raise the risk of accidents tial sector of the Libyan capital. uprising. It has since become start of Haftar’s assault on said. he death toll from a build- at construction sites -- which Ting collapse in southern often serve as the temporary Cambodia rose to 29 yesterday homes for the labourers and morning, as a frantic search for their families. the dead and injured entered a Worker Ei Kosal said on Sat- ’s ministry says facing ‘serious cyber attack’ third day. urday that he, his wife and two Vienna Hundreds of soldiers and other women were having a out elaborating. rescuers worked through the meal on site when the building The attack came as Austria’s night using excavators, drills collapsed. ustria’s foreign ministry Greens on Saturday gave the and power saws to clear con- Their two companions were Ais facing a “serious cyber go-ahead to a coalition with crete after an under-construc- crushed and immediately attack”, it said late Saturday, the country’s conservatives at tion seven-storey hotel in sea- killed. warning another country could a party congress in Salzburg, side Kep province crumbled to “I did not expect to sur - be responsible. removing the last obstacle to the the ground on Friday. vive... it’s like I have just “Due to the gravity and na- unprecedented alliance. Officials had initially es - been reborn,” Kosal said ture of the attack, it cannot be The German government’s timated that 30 workers re- while recuperating at the excluded that it is a targeted IT network in 2018 was hit by a mained trapped under the hospital. attack by a state actor,” it said cyberattack. flattened structure. In June, 28 people died af- in a statement with the interior Last year the EU adopted But provincial spokesman ter the collapse of a building ministry shortly before 11.00 “Due to the gravity and nature of the attack, it cannot be excluded that it is a powers to punish those outside Ros Udong told AFP the num- under construction in Sihan- pm (2200 GMT), adding that the targeted attack by a state actor,” the Austrian foreign ministry said the bloc who launch cyberat- ber of injured and dead was oukville, a beach town flush attack was ongoing. tacks that cripple hospitals and higher than anticipated, as with Chinese investment as “In the past, other European of similar attacks,” it continued. been taken and a “coordination banks, sway elections and steal more bodies were recovered Cambodia seeks to make it the countries have been the target Immediate measures had committee” set up, it said, with- company secrets or funds. in the early hours of Sunday. “New Macau”. This story has legs: Cambodia ‘bug cafe’ serves up insect tapas

Bugs Cafe in Cambodia is mixing cocktail culture with creepy Insects are eaten by two billion people worldwide, according The offerings at Bugs Cafe include crickets, grasshoppers, Bugs Cafe is located in the tourist town of Siem Reap crawler fare to the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization tarantulas and scorpions

Siem Reap | Cambodia in crickets, grasshoppers, taran- “bug mac” -- a patty of pureed There is sweet potato ing concern over the environ- with the “H” crossed out. tulas and scorpions. ant, bee, silkworm and cricket cream with bee larvae, silk - mental impact of livestock British backpacker Joshua nt spring rolls, silkworm Sold at street vendors or in topped with a slice of cheese worm and mango flambe, and farming. Bean, 23, said he knew he had Ataro croquettes and a “bug Instagram-friendly tourist spots, and pickle -- many times to get even a cricket cheesecake As dinner orders picked to visit the cafe after seeing an mac” -- Cambodia’s first insect insects aren’t new to Cambodian it just right. dessert. up, tourists from as far afield ad for the unusual eatery at his tapas restaurant is mixing cock- palates. On a recent evening at the Insects are eaten by two bil- as Britain, and Ma- hostel. tail culture with creepy crawler But they are usually served restaurant, French co-founder lion people worldwide, accord- laysia all happily -- if a lit - He didn’t flinch at the “juicy” fare. one way: fried, with dipping Davy Blouzard greeted curious ing to the UN’s Food and Agricul- tle squeamishly -- crunched silkworms and an assortment At the busy “Bugs Cafe” in the sauce, and maybe a cold beer. diners and explained the menu. ture Organization. away. of other insects piled up on his tourist town of Siem Reap, chef “We have a different kind “We want to show that it’s Besides being a cheap source Servers worked the room plate. Seiha Soeun stands over a siz- of menu,” Seiha said, adding possible to make quality food of protein, insect cuisine is wearing shirts emblazoned with “It’s not the kind of thing you zling wok in the kitchen tossing that he practiced making the with insects,” he said. also a possible answer to ris - the words “I HATE INSECTS”, get back home,” he said. MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 07 Aus counts cost after day of fury Six Germans killed firefighters and pinning a med- as car ploughs into Tens of thousands of al on one of their toddlers in a • haunting image. volunteer firefighters Tens of thousands of vol - pedestrians in Italy have been hailed unteer firefighters have been in and hailed in Australia and across across the world the world for their unrelenting battle against the blazes. Queen Elizabeth II on Sunday Celebrities have sent a message of condolence of pledged• or raised the governor-general, her rep- millions of dollars to resentative in Australia, saying support firefighters she was “deeply saddened” by and fire-affected the fires, and thanked the emer- communities The the crisis has seen an area roughly US singer Pink double the size of burnt who• tweeted Saturday that she was donating reservists to assist exhausted US$500,000 volunteer firefighters. More than 150 emergency workers were mobilised following the tragedy at But in rare public criticism, Lutago in the Italian Alps, and a field hospital was set up by the roadside to Australian actress the New South Wales rural fire provide first aid Nicole• Kidman service chief said he only found out about the deployment from matched that pledge media reports -- the latest crit- icism of the prime minister’s Sunday brought response to the disaster. milder• conditions “I was disappointed and frus- including cooler air trated in the middle of one of Tens of thousands of volunteer firefighters have been hailed in Australia and our worst days with massive dis- across the world for their unrelentling battle against the blazes and some rainfall in location and movement of peo- New South Wales ple,” Shane Fitzsimmons said. father was killed firefighting -- gency services “who put their and neighbouring “We spent a fair amount of has been the face of the crisis in own lives in danger” to help Victoria state the day yesterday trying to seek Australia’s most populous state, communities. clarity.” tearfully informing the public Celebrities have pledged or Fitzsimmons -- whose own about the death of volunteer raised millions of dollars to sup- • Queen Elizabeth port firefighters and fire-affect- II yesterday sent a Australia’s bushfires turn New ed communities, including US A further 11 people were injured following the crash outside a nightclub in message of condolence singer Pink who tweeted Sat- Northern Italy of the governor-general Zealand’s skies bright orange urday that she was donating US$500,000. Six Germans were killed, a Australia’s capital Australian actress Nicole Kid- The accident fire service official in Lutago man matched that pledge. • told AFP. Eleven other people AFP | Batemans Bay, Australia “Our family’s support, happened at around 1:15 were injured, including two thoughts and prayers are with am (0015 GMT) in the from the region. ustralians yesterday everyone affected by the fires village of Lutago near Two who were in a very se- counted the cost from all over Australia,” she posted the Austrian border in rious condition were flown Aa day of catastrophic on Instagram. “We are donat- the South Tyrol region by helicopter to a hospital in bushfires that caused “exten- ing $500,000 to the Rural Fire Innsbruck in Austria. The nine sive damage” across swathes of Services who are all doing and others were taken to regional the country and took the death giving so much right now.” the driver was hospitals. toll from the long-running crisis • According to Rainews24, Easing conditions a 28-year-old man to 24. who lived locally the driver was a 28-year-old Hundreds of properties were Yesterday brought milder man who lived locally and who destroyed and one man died conditions including cooler air “may have had a high level of AFP | Rome trying to save a friend’s home in A view of orange skies in Auckland, New Zealand and some rainfall in New South alcohol in his blood”. the severe conditions -- among Wales and neighbouring Vic- He was arrested and put in the worst in Australia’s months- Reuters | Melbourne toria state -- where firefight- ix Germans were killed hospital under a police guard. long bushfire crisis. ers also battled huge infernos Swhen a car ploughed into More than 150 emergen - In the country’s southeast moke from raging bushfires in Australia blanketed parts of spurned on by winds and light- them after they left a nightclub cy workers were mobilised the skies turned black and ash Sneighbouring New Zealand yesterday, turning the sky over ning strikes. in the Italian Alps on Sunday, following the tragedy, and a rained on isolated communities. Auckland a bright orange. That will give authorities emergency services said, add- field hospital was set up by “We’re in uncharted terri- The city is more than 2,000 kilometres (1,200 miles) from opportunity to get fires under ing that 11 others were injured. the roadside to provide first tory,” New South Wales state southeastern Australia, parts of which have been devastated control and take stock of the Media reports said the driv- aid. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said. by bushfires that have raged for months. damage. er may have been drunk. Lutago, located at an altitude “We can’t pretend that this is Local police have asked residents to stop calling the nation’s But some communities were The accident happened at of 970 metres (3,200 feet) in something that we have experi- emergency hotline to report the issue. still under threat from out-of- around 1:15 am (0015 GMT) in the picturesque Aurina valley, enced before. It’s not,” she said. Zimena Dormer-Didovich told Reuters that it was unsettling control blazes, particularly in the village of Lutago near the is popular with tourists who “Several townships who nev- and felt “apocalyptic”. and around the town of Eden Austrian border in the South use the ski slopes of Klausberg er ever experienced a threat of “We’re in Auckland, New Zealand. That’s why this is so in New South Wales near the Tyrol region, which is popular and Speikboden. bushfire were at threat of being shocking to us - we’re so far away yet this smoke is so intense,” Victorian border. with skiers. The village of about 800 res- completely wiped out.” Dormer-Didovich said, adding how the few hours of exposure “Visibility was down to about The group of Germans had idents is the location for a pop- The severity of the crisis -- to the smoke were being felt. 50 metres, if that, and we had spent the evening at the night- ular Italian television series “A which has seen an area rough- “My 14-year-old’s asthma is playing up, and I’m starting to lots of debris falling out of the club and were near their bus un passo del ciel” (“One step ly double the size of Belgium notice that my breathing is slightly affected too.” sky and a lot of white ash,” John when the car slammed into from heaven”). burnt -- saw Prime Minister The bushfires in Australia have killed 24 people, destroyed Steele, 73, who was evacuated them at high-speed. Last week, three Germans - a Scott Morrison announce the more than 1,500 homes and burnt through more than 5.25 with his wife from their rural Some of them were pro - woman and two girls, one of largest military call-up in living million hectares (13 million acres) since September. property north of Eden late Sat- pelled dozens of metres by the them aged seven - were killed memory, mobilising up to 3,000 urday, said. impact. in an avalanche in South Tyrol.

Dozens arrested after Diver killed in Australia shark attack Hong Kong protest The man was attacked at Cull years. Reuters | Hong Kong Australia has Island near the town of Esper- A 17-year-old girl was mauled who buy vast amounts of duty • ance in Western Australia state, by a shark in full view of her free goods in Hong Kong and one of the world’s the state’s primary industries parents near Wylie Bay in 2017. cuffles erupted between take them back to the main- highest incidences department said in a statement. She lost her leg and was pulled Spolice and protesters in land to sell at a profit. of shark attacks “A man received fatal injuries from the water, but died shortly Hong Kong yesterday, with Locals say it pushes up pric- after being bitten by a reported after. dozens of arrests made, after es, overcrowds neighbour- Sydney white shark,” the department In 2014, a young surfer lost thousands marched near the hoods and adds to growing said. parts of both arms after being border, shouting pro-democ- tensions between Hong Kong Surf Life Saving Western Aus- attacked by a great white, also racy slogans and venting their residents and mainland Chi- man has been mauled to tralia said he was believed to be off Esperance. anger at mainland Chinese nese. Adeath by a suspected great a diver. Australia has one of the traders. Organisers estimated 10,000 white shark at a popular diving The fatal attack, the first in world’s highest incidences of The demonstrators in She- people took part in the march, spot off Australia’s southwest- Australia this year, is the second shark attacks, but fatalities re- ung Shui took aim at so-called while police estimated a crowd ern coast, officials said Sunday. in the area in less than three main rare. “parallel traders” from of 2,500 at its peak. ONE OF THE EVILS OF MONEY QUOTE IS THAT IT TEMPTS US TO OF THE LOOK AT IT RATHER THAN AT DAY THE THINGS THAT IT BUYS. MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 E. M. FORSTER

HUSSEIN IBISH . vision largely falls along party lines. Members of the Republican Party Donald Trump’s eople around the world, and are applauding while those of the certainly in America, were Democratic Party are seeking some Ptaken aback to learn that US way of expressing concern without order to kill President Donald Trump ordered a being unpatriotic. drone strike to kill Qassem Suleim- Within the mainstream, which ani, one of Iran’s top commanders, is generally careful to welcome Qassem Suleimani and Abu Mahdi Al Muhandis, head of Suleimani’s demise, the demurrals the pro-Iranian militia in Iraq, Kataib are primarily constitutional and pro- Hezbollah. Opinion in the country cedural. Most Democrats’ objections is on solid is divided about the constitutional focus on the appropriate relationship legitimacy and wisdom of the move between the White House and Con- but rather less about whether this gress in strategic decision-making. constitutional administration is prepared to deal Some protest that Mr Trump has with the consequences of a dramatic exceeded his authority by, in effect, escalation with Iran. taking the US into a war with Iran ground Suleimani was head of the Quds without congressional approval. The Force, a unit in the Islamic Revolu- constitution explicitly states that tionary Guard Corps, Iran’s paramil- Congress exclusively has the power But whether the US itary militia, and has led his coun- to declare war. But since the Second try’s efforts to expand its hegemony World War, this has been largely a administration is prepared to and spread its influence in the Arab theoretical prerogative, with the world over the past 20 years. He president, as commander-in-chief, deal with the consequences of a was probably the most significant in effect deciding where and when military figure in the history of the the US engages in armed conflict. dramatic escalation with Iran is “Islamic Republic” and, arguably, That has been consistent among both British, European and even classi- One must also factor in the second in influence only to its su- Democratic and Republican admin- cal Roman experiences of monar- great likelihood that ele- an entirely different matter preme leader, Ali Khamenei. Killing istrations. chy. Yet they concluded from their him was the most significant blow The constitutional argument in experiment with the early, decen- ments of Iraqi intelligence Mr Trump could have struck against this case is particularly weak. The tralised and inadequate “Articles of were involved in gathering the Tehran regime anywhere outside drone strike that killed Suleimani Confederation” – the first written the information that led to of Iran itself. has not taken the US into a war with constitution of the US – that many the drone attack, and that The US government estimates Iran by any meaningful definition of essential actions of government they also could well have Suleimani was responsible for the the term. Nor has it sentenced the were necessarily national and un- had knowledge of such deaths of more than 600 US troops, country to inevitably slide into one. suited to the complex deliberations plans. largely in Iraq, since 2003. So, except Even by the most traditional and of any committee, whether small for some far left and right-wing voic- strict reading of Congress’ war pow- or large. es and a newly-emerging neo-isola- ers, this kind of limited, quick-action To deal with immediate contin- tionist think tank, people who follow and highly focused attack is actually gencies, emergencies and decisions the developments in the Middle East a textbook example of why the fram- that perforce must be rapid, flexible largely agree that the Iranian terror- ers of the constitution included an and focused, even these anti-mon- ist ringmaster got what he deserved. executive branch in the first place archists recognised that a powerful, However, major foreign policy de- – and gave the president the powers centralised national executive was velopments, especially in an election of commander-in-chief of the mili- indispensable. That was particu- There is little doubt that Suleim- year, are invariably subjects of ideo- tary and control of most aspects of larly true in the case of day-to-day ani and Al Muhandis were plotting logical and partisan contention – and foreign policy. international relations and military further attacks against American this is no exception. Among major The framers were anti-monar- matters, as well as unexpected con- personnel and installations in Iraq. figures in the US Congress, the di- chical republicans rebelling against tingencies such as natural disasters. What, after all, was Suleimani doing

What it takes to power the Middle East’s renewables revolution?

DR AWAL AL HOSANY The UAE’s approach to sus- he Paris climate agree- tainability and renewable en- ment was a watershed ergy has been comprehensive; Tmoment for many rea- taking into account the shifts sons. It caused a tidal wave of needed not just in renewable en- change, sending ripples through ergy production and consump- The UAE’s governments, policy makers and tion but in multi-stakeholder thought leaders as they have collaborations, public-private comprehensive pledged to restrict global warm- partnerships, green economic ing to below two degrees Celsius thinking and green financing approach after the treaty was adopted in options. late 2015. Such forward-thinking has to hitting But it is not just words and propelled the UAE to the front intentions that have changed. of the renewables drive and is ambitious The share of renewable energy having a profound impact on in global electricity supply has the region. Since 2015, the Gulf sustainability increased by 27.19 per cent from Co-operation Council’s renewa- 2015 to 2018 – representing an ble project pipeline has reached and renewable average annual growth rate of almost 7GW of new power gen- 6.8 per cent, according to a 2019 eration capacity by 2018, fol- energy targets report by the International Re- lowing record-breaking bids over the next newable Energy Agency, or Ire- in renewable energy auctions na. At the end of last year, the here in the UAE and next door 50 years is world’s total renewable energy in Saudi Arabia that has made generation capacity reached solar power a cost-competitive a blueprint 2,351 gigawatts, which repre- solution. sents a little more than a third of We are aware that everyone for other total installed electricity capaci- needs to be involved in this ty, the same report states. movement. To continue the mo- responsible It is clear to see: there is ev- mentum in the region and glob- idence of a seismic renewable ally, a campaign was launched countries energy shift – one that could by the UAE Mission to Irena, a success stories of a switch to re- in this vital sector, we can look The empowerment of our ment, and Renewable Energy, yet prove to be the inspiration part of the Ministry of Climate newables, and their dreams for a at how the UAE has integrated youth and our women has been established by Masdar and the for the revolution we need. And Change and Environment. #Ac- clean energy-fuelled future. It is people, policies and strategies to vital in promoting the adop - Zayed Sustainability Prize, has amid the cast of players that are t4Impact provides a platform only by including everyone that regulate the energy sector as an tion of sustainable practices enhanced women’s contribution making this renewables revo- and calls on all renewable ener- we can have the impact needed example of the holistic thinking and clean energy sources. For to building a sustainable future lution a possibility, the UAE has gy stakeholders, as well as the to affect a lasting change. that is powering the renewables instance, the Women’s Forum and made the sector a more dy- taken a central role. general public, to share their When addressing inclusivity revolution. for Sustainability, Environ- namic one.

Hon. Chairman Najeb Yacob Alhamer | Editor-in-Chief Mahmood AI Mahmood | Chairman & Managing Director P Unnikrishnan | Advertisement: Update Media W.L.L | Tel: 38444692, Email: [email protected] | Newsroom: Tel: 38444680, Email: [email protected] Subscription & circulation: Tel: 36458394 | Email:[email protected] | Website: www.newsofbahrain.com | Printed and published by Al Ayam Publishing ONE OF THE EVILS OF MONEY QUOTE IS THAT IT TEMPTS US TO TODAY 1978 1989 1992 1993 OF THE LOOK AT IT RATHER THAN AT DAY IN The Crown of St. Stephen (also known as Satwant Singh and Kehar Singh are sentenced President of Georgia Zviad Indian Border Security Force DAY THE THINGS THAT IT BUYS. HISTORY the Holy Crown of Hungary) is returned to death for conspiracy in the assassination of Gamsakhurdia flees the units kill 55 in Sopore, Jammu to Hungary from the United States, where Prime Minister Indira Gandhi; the two men country as a result of the and Kashmir, in revenge after MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 E. M. FORSTER it was held after World War II. are executed the same day. military coup. militants ambushed a BSF patrol.

HUSSEIN IBISH . vision largely falls along party lines. was a huge strategic error, it was well Members of the Republican Party within presidential authority. Donald Trump’s eople around the world, and are applauding while those of the Mainstream Democratic Party Falling agri-produce a certainly in America, were Democratic Party are seeking some leaders, including senate minority Ptaken aback to learn that US way of expressing concern without leader Chuck Schumer, have com- TOP challenge for Bahrain order to kill President Donald Trump ordered a being unpatriotic. plained that they did not receive drone strike to kill Qassem Suleim- Within the mainstream, which the traditional briefings in advance ani, one of Iran’s top commanders, is generally careful to welcome of the action, as familiar procedure TWEETS4 Qassem Suleimani and Abu Mahdi Al Muhandis, head of Suleimani’s demise, the demurrals would dictate. Mr Schumer com - the pro-Iranian militia in Iraq, Kataib are primarily constitutional and pro- plained that the “gang of eight” – the Hezbollah. Opinion in the country cedural. Most Democrats’ objections four senior-most members of the is on solid is divided about the constitutional focus on the appropriate relationship house of representatives and senate 01 legitimacy and wisdom of the move between the White House and Con- – did not receive such a briefing, as but rather less about whether this gress in strategic decision-making. is customary. constitutional administration is prepared to deal Some protest that Mr Trump has That is unfortunate. But under the with the consequences of a dramatic exceeded his authority by, in effect, circumstances, including impeach- KOTA SRIRAJ escalation with Iran. taking the US into a war with Iran ment tensions between the White ground Suleimani was head of the Quds without congressional approval. The House and the Democratic majority Force, a unit in the Islamic Revolu- constitution explicitly states that in the house, it is hardly scandalous. he United States ood insecurity is becoming a major cause of concern tionary Guard Corps, Iran’s paramil- Congress exclusively has the power The real national anxiety is far Tjust spent Two Tril- across the world in the wake of soaring population and But whether the US itary militia, and has led his coun- to declare war. But since the Second more widespread and shared among lion Dollars on Military Furbanisation amid falling agricultural productivity owing try’s efforts to expand its hegemony World War, this has been largely a Republicans and Democrats, left and Equipment. We are the to diminishing arable land, drought and climate change condi- administration is prepared to and spread its influence in the Arab theoretical prerogative, with the right, and most serious observers: biggest and by far the tions. According to the United Nations-Food and Agriculture world over the past 20 years. He president, as commander-in-chief, does Mr Trump really understand BEST in the World! If Organisation (FAO) 2019 report, more than 820 million people deal with the consequences of a was probably the most significant in effect deciding where and when what he is getting the US into? Iran attacks an American across the world are still hungry and devoid of basic nutrition. military figure in the history of the the US engages in armed conflict. Responding to Iran’s escalating Base, or any American, Added to this is a further concern that about 2 billion people dramatic escalation with Iran is “Islamic Republic” and, arguably, That has been consistent among both British, European and even classi- One must also factor in the there – and in the company of Al provocations was essential to de - we will be sending some globally are continuously vulnerable to food insecurity condi- second in influence only to its su- Democratic and Republican admin- cal Roman experiences of monar- great likelihood that ele- Muhandis? fending American interests in the of that brand new beauti- tions. Food insecurity conditions are now becoming widespread an entirely different matter preme leader, Ali Khamenei. Killing istrations. chy. Yet they concluded from their Their focus was almost certainly Middle East. Yet Tehran might re- ful equipment their way... necessitating measures before the world experiences a food him was the most significant blow The constitutional argument in experiment with the early, decen- ments of Iraqi intelligence planning the next stage in the “max- main convinced that Mr Trump does and without hesitation! meltdown driven crises. Mr Trump could have struck against this case is particularly weak. The tralised and inadequate “Articles of were involved in gathering imum resistance” campaign against not have the stomach for a full-blown @realDonaldTrump Compromised food security arising out of diminishing agri- the Tehran regime anywhere outside drone strike that killed Suleimani Confederation” – the first written the information that led to the US and its allies in the region. war, including major combat opera- cultural produce in the backdrop of growing urbanisation is be- of Iran itself. has not taken the US into a war with constitution of the US – that many the drone attack, and that It is implausible to think they were tions, with Iran. coming a disconcerting concern for Bahrain too. The unrelenting The US government estimates Iran by any meaningful definition of essential actions of government they also could well have discussing anything else. Add to that, He has called their bluff. But they desert conditions and arid topography are adding to a growing Suleimani was responsible for the the term. Nor has it sentenced the were necessarily national and un- had knowledge of such the insistence of US officials that can call his, too. There are real ques- 02 problem. The current patterns of food imports are bridging the deaths of more than 600 US troops, country to inevitably slide into one. suited to the complex deliberations plans. there is meaningful intelligence that tions about whether he has a viable demand and supply gap, but the reliance on imports also mean largely in Iraq, since 2003. So, except Even by the most traditional and of any committee, whether small additional attacks were indeed being strategy, a serious vision for the long that the food availability is subject to global food price fluctu- for some far left and right-wing voic- strict reading of Congress’ war pow- or large. planned. term, the political commitment and ations, supply unpredictability besides economic and political es and a newly-emerging neo-isola- ers, this kind of limited, quick-action To deal with immediate contin- One must also factor in the great the personal qualities to lead a show- instabilities. Bahrain must chart a new plan for year 2020 and tionist think tank, people who follow and highly focused attack is actually gencies, emergencies and decisions likelihood that elements of Iraqi down with the so-called Islamic Re- beyond to slowly but surely and steadily replace the quantum the developments in the Middle East a textbook example of why the fram- that perforce must be rapid, flexible intelligence were involved in gath- public. of imports with indigenous substitutes, which will not only in- largely agree that the Iranian terror- ers of the constitution included an and focused, even these anti-mon- ering the information that led to His performance thus far as pres- crease self-reliance, boost employment and industry but will also ist ringmaster got what he deserved. executive branch in the first place archists recognised that a powerful, the drone attack, and that they also ident overall is not reassuring – ar- he Iranian regime give a much-needed shot in the arm for the agricultural sector. However, major foreign policy de- – and gave the president the powers centralised national executive was could well have had knowledge of guably except when it comes to Iran Ttelling Iraq’s govern- Bahrain must usher in an agricultural revolution that bypasses velopments, especially in an election of commander-in-chief of the mili- indispensable. That was particu- There is little doubt that Suleim- such plans. itself. Is Mr Trump capable of com- ment what to do puts Ira- the current challenges being faced by the agri sec- year, are invariably subjects of ideo- tary and control of most aspects of larly true in the case of day-to-day ani and Al Muhandis were plotting Article II of the US constitution, petently directing the US in such a qi patriots’ lives at risk. tor in the form of water scarcity and investment logical and partisan contention – and foreign policy. international relations and military further attacks against American which enumerates the powers of the considerable, protracted and com- The Iraqi people want The integration shortfalls. In this regard a whole new pattern of this is no exception. Among major The framers were anti-monar- matters, as well as unexpected con- personnel and installations in Iraq. presidency, anticipates precisely this plex struggle? Skepticism remains out from under the Irani- food varieties in the form of hybrid seeds that figures in the US Congress, the di- chical republicans rebelling against tingencies such as natural disasters. What, after all, was Suleimani doing kind of contingency. So even if this widespread. an yoke; indeed, they re- of technical require lower water table maintenance, can cently burned an Iranian competence withstand harsh temperatures and are resistant consulate to the ground. must also be to the local weeds and pest exposure. In order @SecPompeo the hallmark of to ensure this the agricultural crop research will have to undergo radical changes, especially on the new agri- the research and development front and in order revolution. The to do the UN-FAO and other related organisations 03 full spectrum must be convinced to provide finance facilities of technology to fund the R&D efforts. The research must be must be provided multi-centric and must draw on the expertise of What it takes to power the Middle East’s renewables revolution? global agricultural crop experts as well. for the farmer The integration of technical competence must so that a never also be the hallmark of the new agri-revolu - DR AWAL AL HOSANY before leverage tion. The full spectrum of technology must be The UAE’s approach to sus- When addressing inclusivity jects and to actualise the benefits is provided in provided for the farmer so that a never before he Paris climate agree- tainability and renewable en- of public-private partnerships. ne of the hardest leverage is provided in the interests of securing ment was a watershed ergy has been comprehensive; in this vital sector, we can the interests of look at how the UAE has Meanwhile in Abu Dhabi, Othings to learn is to food security. This technological intervention Tmoment for many rea- taking into account the shifts Masdar created the region’s first not worry about what securing food can range from latest satellite imagery being used sons. It caused a tidal wave of needed not just in renewable en- integrated people, policies green revolving credit facility people think or say about security. on regular basis for crop planning to availability change, sending ripples through ergy production and consump- and strategies to regulate last October with four banks to you. Until you learn this of detailed crop data of each registered farmer The UAE’s governments, policy makers and tion but in multi-stakeholder the energy sector as an provide sustainable financing lesson, you will waste val- online. This will also help the farmers intercon- thought leaders as they have collaborations, public-private example of the holistic options for clean technology and uable time responding to nect better and learn from each other’s experiences whether it comprehensive pledged to restrict global warm- partnerships, green economic thinking that is powering sustainable real estate projects. negativity and criticism. is best practices or avoidable practices. The geographical area ing to below two degrees Celsius thinking and green financing the renewables revolution. Because wealth and so - As @paulocoelho said, wise demarcation of land type on some preset parameters such approach after the treaty was adopted in options. cio-economic development ‘be a good person, but ground water table level, soil moisture grade, soil quality in the late 2015. Such forward-thinking has across the GCC remain closely don’t waste your time form of heavy metal presence and so on will help farmers choose to hitting But it is not just words and propelled the UAE to the front tied to the region’s substantial trying to prove it.’ the best crop that suits the soil type exactly given the strengths intentions that have changed. of the renewables drive and is oil and gas reserves, the need @ValaAfshar and weaknesses of the arable land. ambitious The share of renewable energy having a profound impact on for an all-round plan to kickstart The emergence of a technology driven agriculture will also sustainability in global electricity supply has the region. Since 2015, the Gulf the renewables push in a sus- witness innovation by farmers who can be encouraged to con- increased by 27.19 per cent from Co-operation Council’s renewa- tainable manner is paramount, 04 tribute their suggestions on how they think technology can 2015 to 2018 – representing an ble project pipeline has reached as rising populations and eco- further be utilised in taking agri-produce to the next level of and renewable average annual growth rate of almost 7GW of new power gen- Furthermore, as well as im- nomic diversification have led efficiency. In this regard a smartphone app driven initiative that energy targets 6.8 per cent, according to a 2019 eration capacity by 2018, fol- plementing mega renewable to greater energy demand. Re- includes the presence of Government agri department, Farmer, report by the International Re- lowing record-breaking bids energy projects, including Mas- newables, although a relatively Consumer and Investor on a single platform will change the face over the next newable Energy Agency, or Ire- in renewable energy auctions dar’s Solar Photovoltaic Plant, recent entrant in the GCC energy of agriculture forever and restore the fast ebbing confidence na. At the end of last year, the here in the UAE and next door the Mohammed bin Rashid Al landscape, hold vast potential of the investor’s too in agriculture. It is a win-win scenario for 50 years is world’s total renewable energy in Saudi Arabia that has made Maktoum Solar Park and the to cut energy costs in the long all the stakeholders and can provide much needed impetus to generation capacity reached solar power a cost-competitive waste-to-energy plant in Shar- run, reduce carbon emissions, e have the best mil- food production. a blueprint 2,351 gigawatts, which repre- solution. jah in partnership with Bee’ah, conserve scarce water and cre- Witary and the best Food security is a real time threat and is evident more so for sents a little more than a third of We are aware that everyone the UAE’s vision for having 50 ate jobs. intelligence anywhere in the GCC given the facts that only 1.8% of the land in GCC is ac- for other total installed electricity capaci- needs to be involved in this per cent clean energy in the to- In 2020, sustainability and the world. If Americans tually used for agriculture which contributes to a meager 1.4% ty, the same report states. movement. To continue the mo- tal energy mix by 2050 revolves renewable energy will form the are threatened, we are of the total GDP. The GCC food import bill too points towards responsible It is clear to see: there is ev- mentum in the region and glob- around sustainable finance and backbone of the UAE’s prepa- prepared to respond. the concerning situation. The import bill was earlier expected idence of a seismic renewable ally, a campaign was launched an economy that works for the rations for the 50 years ahead @WhiteHouse to be about $ 25.8 bn by 2020 but according to the current countries energy shift – one that could by the UAE Mission to Irena, a success stories of a switch to re- in this vital sector, we can look The empowerment of our ment, and Renewable Energy, future of the planet. as technologies, projects and Economic Intelligence Unit estimates the bill is expected to hit yet prove to be the inspiration part of the Ministry of Climate newables, and their dreams for a at how the UAE has integrated youth and our women has been established by Masdar and the Under the Dubai Clean Ener- concepts come to fruition $ 53 bn by year 2020. Given these figures it becomes apparent for the revolution we need. And Change and Environment. #Ac- clean energy-fuelled future. It is people, policies and strategies to vital in promoting the adop - Zayed Sustainability Prize, has gy Strategy, a key pillar was the across the land. Renewable en- Disclaimer: (Views expressed that a worsening issue is now reaching critical stages and needs amid the cast of players that are t4Impact provides a platform only by including everyone that regulate the energy sector as an tion of sustainable practices enhanced women’s contribution establishment of a Dh100 billion ergy will shape the future of the by columnists are personal and urgent remedial measures and intervention so that the future making this renewables revo- and calls on all renewable ener- we can have the impact needed example of the holistic thinking and clean energy sources. For to building a sustainable future Dubai Green Fund to facilitate region and the UAE will drive need not necessarily reflect our generations of Bahrain can be insulated against the food insecu- lution a possibility, the UAE has gy stakeholders, as well as the to affect a lasting change. that is powering the renewables instance, the Women’s Forum and made the sector a more dy- easy, low-interest loans for in- this change towards a brighter, editorial stances) rity have sufficient access to quality, standard food at affordable taken a central role. general public, to share their When addressing inclusivity revolution. for Sustainability, Environ- namic one. vestors in green economy pro- cleaner future. prices that is high on nutrition index too.

Hon. Chairman Najeb Yacob Alhamer | Editor-in-Chief Mahmood AI Mahmood | Chairman & Managing Director P Unnikrishnan | Advertisement: Update Media W.L.L | Tel: 38444692, Email: [email protected] | Newsroom: Tel: 38444680, Email: [email protected] Subscription & circulation: Tel: 36458394 | Email:[email protected] | Website: www.newsofbahrain.com | Printed and published by Al Ayam Publishing 10 MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 business begins TurkStream gas flows leads Gulf losses

Russia is building TurkStream• and doubling the capacity of NordStream across the Baltic Sea to

Russian gas producer Gazprom• started shipping about 3 billion cubic metres (bcm) of gas to Bulgaria Kuwaiti traders follow the stock market at the Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) via TurkStream Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin attend a ceremony to mark the completion in Kuwait City on October 14 of the sea part of the TurkStream gas pipeline, in Istanbul, Turkey Reuters | Sofia in Al Rajhi Bank and a 1.7pc fall point (at our Turkish border),” made reversible and could be May and build the whole section Saudi Arabian in state-owned Aramco to 34.6 ussia has started Europe- Bulgartransgaz CEO Vladimir used for shipments to , by year-end. • riyals, which hit its lowest in- an gas deliveries through Malinov told Bulgarian national Moldova and if there While Russia and Ukraine banks slide traday level since last month’s Rthe new TurkStream radio BNR. was demand. at the end of last year signed market debut. pipeline to Turkey, Bulgaria’s Russian gas producer Gaz- “We have thus opened the a five-year agreement on gas Aramco closes Egypt’s blue-chip index Bulgartransgaz said yesterday, prom started shipping about 3 route to access for LNG from transit to Europe, volumes are at• 34.6 riyals dived 4.4pc, touching its low- as Moscow looks to reduce ship- billion cubic metres (bcm) of the Greece’s LNG terminal Re- set to fall from 65 bcm in 2020 est since September 2019. The ments via Ukraine. gas to Bulgaria via TurkStream vithoussa up to Ukraine,” he to 40 bcm annually from 2021 to Egypt hits its country’s largest lender Com- Russia is building TurkStream on January 1, replacing a route said. 2024. • mercial International Bank and doubling the capacity of that formerly passed through Russia is building TurkStream Relations between the one- lowest in 3 months closed down 1.9pc and Eastern NordStream across the Baltic Ukraine and Romania. in two pipelines, each with an time allies have deteriorated Company dived 4.9pc. Sea to Germany as part of plans Gazprom shipped about 3 bcm annual capacity of 15.75 bcm. since Russia annexed Crimea Kuwait sees biggest In Kuwait, the index to bypass Ukraine in its gas de- to Greece and about 500,000 The first pipeline is aimed in March 2014 and pro-Kremlin fall• in over 2 years plunged 4.1pc with all stocks liveries to Europe. mcm to North Macedonia via at supplying Turkey and the separatists seized a swath of in the red including Kuwait “Russian gas deliveries not that route last year. second would run further from eastern Ukraine. Finance House, down 5.1pc, only for us but also for Greece Malinov said that lines - the Bulgaria to and Hunga- Ukraine halted its own direct Reuters and National Bank of Kuwait, and North Macedonia are being TransBalkan pipeline - was idle ry. Bulgaria hopes to be able to imports of Russian gas in No- off 2.8pc. carried through the new entry at present, but added that it was make shipments to Serbia by vember 2015. ulf bourses saw steep The Dubai index tumbled declines yesterday, 3.1pc, hurt by a 3.1pc slide in Gwith Kuwait falling the its largest lender Emirates NBD most following tensions be- and a 3.7pc decline in Emaar tween the United States and Properties. Iran, while outside the Gulf Abu Dhabi’s index lost 1.4pc, Chinese delegation plans to travel to Egypt was also hard hit as all with the United Arab Emir- its shares ended lower. ates’ largest lender First Abu Iranian military commander Dhabi Bank retreating 1.2pc, Washington to sign trade deal: SCMP Qassem Soleimani was killed while Abu Dhabi Commercial Reuters on Friday in a US drone strike Bank was down 3.3pc. that he would sign the Phase 1 on his convoy at Baghdad air- The index eased 2.1pc trade deal with China on Jan. 15. port, seen by Tehran as an act with all its 20 stocks closing Chinese trade delegation is After a full afternoon’s discus- of war that risks regional con- lower. Lender Masraf Al Rayan Aplanning to travel to Wash- sion, the Chinese side decided flagration. fell 2.7pc and Qatar National ington on Jan. 13 for the signing to revise their plan to accommo- “Not surprising, the Gulf Bank declined 1.4pc. of the U.S.-China Phase 1 trade date Trump, SCMP said. markets are reacting negative- deal, the South China Morn- Washington and Beijing have ly given we are in the middle Closing bell ing Post reported yesterday yet to officially confirm Liu’s of all the geopolitics action,” SAUDI q 2.4pc to 8,194 pts citing a source briefed on the visit. said Vrajesh Bhandari, senior matter. Trump had first announced portfolio manager at Al Mal ABU DHABI q 1.4pc to 5,028 pts The Chinese delegation will plans for the initial trade pact Capital. DUBAI q 3.1pc to 2,684 pts SCMP return on Jan. 16, said. in October, and U.S. and Chi- “We fear this can be an over- QATAR q 2.1pc to 10,286 pts The trade delegation, led by nese negotiators spent weeks hang over the next few months Vice Premier Liu He, had orig- finalizing the Phase 1 deal, and not just a one day or week EGYPT q 4.4pc to 13,284 pts inally planned to set off earlier which comes in lieu of the mas- thing.” BAHRAIN q 2.3pc to 1,576 pts in the month but had to change sive trade agreement that the Saudi Arabia’s bench - OMAN q 0.3pc to 3,993 pts plans after U.S. President Don- A worker drives a truck carrying a container at a logistics center near Tianjin world’s two largest economies mark index lost 2.4 per cent, ald Trump sent a tweet claiming port, in Tianjin, China had initially sought. weighed down by a 2.1pc drop KUWAIT q 4.1pc to 6,692 pts Moscow unveils plan to adapt economy to climate change

igate damage but also “use the It says climate change in - Among a list of 30 measures, Russia is warming advantages” of warmer temper- creases risks to public health the government will calcu - • atures. and permafrost, of infections, late risks of Russian products 2.5 times quicker than The document, published on turbulent weather and will have becoming uncompetitive and the planet on average the government website on Sat- consequences for other species. failing to meet new climate-re- urday, outlines a plan of action Possible “positive” effects are lated standards as well as pre- Putin denies it and admits that “consequences decreased energy use in cold pare new educational materi- is• man-made of (climate) change have a prom- regions, expanding agricultural als to teach climate change in inent and increasing effect on areas and navigational opportu- schools. socio-economic development, nities in the Arctic ocean. Russia is one of the most vul- Russia will calculate people’s lives,” health and in- The document lays the nerable countries to climate risks• of Russian dustry. groundwork for various agen- change, with vast Arctic regions products failing to Russia is warming 2.5 times cies and stresses the need for and infrastructure built over meet new climate- quicker than the planet on av- more research on economic vul- permafrost. Recent floods and erage, and the two-year “first nerabilities, without detailing wildfires have been among the related standards stage” plan is an indication that financing. planet’s worst climate-related the government officially rec- It lists preventive measures disasters. Moscow ognises this as a problem, even such as dam building or switch- Putin has repeatedly denied though President Vladimir Putin ing to more drought-resistant scientific consensus that climate he Russian government has denies it is man-made. crops, as well as crisis prepara- change is primarily caused by Tpublished a plan to adapt Snow problem: Russia will also look at “positive” effects of climate change such The plan is needed in order tions including emergency vac- man-made emissions, blaming the economy and population to as are decreased energy use in cold regions, expanding agricultural areas and to “lower the losses and use the cinations or evacuations in case it last month on some “processes climate change, aiming to mit- navigational opportunities in Arctic waters advantages”. of a disaster. in the universe”. MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 11 Greek PM on W. House trip amid Turkey tension

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis heads for his first White House visit Turkey wants to make sure it is has a share of gas exploration in the eastern Greece is interested in acquiring US-made drones and eventually F-35 combat since seeing President Donald Trump at a NATO summit in December Mediterranean Sea jets, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis says uninhabited Aegean islet group In November, Erdogan signed vide a critical opportunity to in- “We’ve gotten past the era AFP | Athens in 1996. a contentious maritime and mil- form investors and policymakers of instinctive or reflexive an- Athens is But Trump has often struck a itary deal with the embattled of the opportunities that the new ti-Americanism,” the US official keen to enlist ix months into his term, dissonant tone in his administra- UN-backed Libyan government. Greece has to offer,” Pyatt told a said, referring to scepticism by Greek Prime Minister tion’s foreign policy, preferring Swiftly condemned by neigh- conference in early December. many Greeks towards Washing- US investors SKyriakos Mitsotakis to forge personal bonds even bouring states including Greece, According to a senior US of- ton for backing the 1967 Greek heads to his first White House with the leaders of countries and Egypt, the move is ficial, there was a “reframing military junta. for the growth visit today amidst tense rela- whose policies have on occasion seen by analysts as part of a of the US-Greece relationship” The trip to the White House tions with NATO ally and re- been rebuked by the US State Turkish strategy to avoid exclu- even from the first half of 2017 -- six months to the day after his spurt envisioned gional rival Turkey. Department or Congress. sion from the gas exploration under Tsipras, with Greece electoral victory -- will be the Athens is keen to enlist US Turkish President Recep scramble in the region. emerging as “one of the United first as prime minister for Mit- by the Greek investors for the growth spurt Tayyip Erdogan is one of them. Mitsotakis came to power in States’ most important partners sotakis, who studied at Harvard envisioned by the Greek con- “It goes without saying that July after defeating leftist for- in southern Europe.” University. He saw Trump in conservative servative government -- but the political unpredictability of mer PM Alexis Tsipras in nation- Tsipras, who tempered the London during the NATO sum- the visit comes as tensions the American president creates al elections. deep-seated anti-Americanism mit in early December. government escalate with Turkey over mi- a foggy scenery,” says Spyridon Trump in December signed of his Syriza party with pragma- “One of the open questions gration, energy exploration Litsas, professor of internation- the EastMed Act, an initiative tism, scored points by ending a about the Mitsotakis visit is -- but the and territorial disputes. al relations at the University of to facilitate energy cooperation quarter-century name dispute whether he can convince Trump “Greece and the United Macedonia in Thessaloniki. among the US, Israel, Greece and with neighbouring North Mac- to follow a much more strategic visit comes as States are closer than ever,” “Mitsotakis travels to Wash- Cyprus. edonia, and by promoting an and effective policy to limit the Mitsotakis said in a December ington in order to demonstrate On Thursday, Greece, Cyprus energy agenda aligned with US substantial damage Erdogan has tensions escalate 29 interview with the weekly, to American political and eco- and Israel launched a major interests at the expense of Rus- caused Greece, the US and the with Turkey To Vima. nomic elites that besides Turk- pipeline project -- also called sia. NATO Alliance,” says Nicholas “Greece is a reliable ally and ish unreliability in the eastern EastMed -- designed to ship gas Under Tsipras, Athens also Burns, former US Ambassador over migration, I expect this to be confirmed Mediterranean, there is also from the eastern Mediterranean signed on to an F-16 upgrade to Greece, currently diplomacy with deeds, not just words,” Greece, a pivotal state for the to Europe. programme worth $1.5 billion. professor at the Harvard Ken- energy he said. balance of power in the region, In October, a team headed by nedy School. The US has traditionally a fundamental actor regarding Greece a ‘pillar of stability’ US Secretary of State Mike Pom- “President Trump has been exploration maintained a difficult balanc- the re-shaping of the regional According to US ambassador peo signed defence and security weak and inconsistent in re - ing act between Greece and energy map, and a fertile ground to Athens Geoffrey Pyatt, Wash- upgrade agreements. sponding to Turkey’s purchase and territorial Turkey over the past six dec- for investment,” Litsas told AFP. ington sees Greece as “a critical Athens is also interested in of the Russian A-400 air defence ades, with the Clinton admin- Greek relations with Turkey pillar of regional stability.” US-made drones and, eventually, system and Turkey’s cavalier disputes istration actually stepping in are at their lowest point in dec- “The prime minister’s engage- F-35 warplanes, Mitsotakis told disregard of American interests to prevent hostilities over an ades. ments in Washington will pro- To Vima. in Syria,” Burns said. Samsung Elec Amid tech turmoil, celebration at electronics show Las Vegas Emotional issues says will unveil he Consumer Electronics Some of the new CES gadgets TShow opening Tuesday of- will collect and analyze data fers a chance to showcase the such as facial expressions and ‘innovative devices’ newest and shiniest gadgetry, tone of voice -- creating the op- looking past the turmoil en - portunity for more personalized gulfing the global technology services, but with risks as well. on Feb.11 industry. This could mean a robot The annual Las Vegas gather- might be a better personal com- Reuters | Seoul ing with more than 4,500 exhib- panion for the elderly, itors brings out about 175,000 and a vehicle may amsung Electronics said attendees searching for innova- adapt to signs of Syesterday that it will intro- tions of the future. duce new, innovative devic- For an industry facing un - Smart glasses and es in San Francisco on Feb. precedented turbulence, the Robots will be a big part of the 2020 Consumer Electronics other wearable 11, with the electronics giant hope is that what happens in Show technologies widely expected to unveil its Vegas does not stay in Vegas af- world and its privacy tradeoffs, and Monday. are being new foldable phone and a new ter it closes on Friday, but filters and still appear to be driven to- “You will see showcased at the version of its flagship S model. into the world where consum- ward new gadgetry. that across the 2020 Consumer The move comes as the ers can adopt new technolo - “People always want to see a entire CES -- AI Electronics Show world’s top smartphone maker Representative picture gies for health, communication, shiny new object,” Kay said. embedded in all these seeks to maintain its lead in the transportation, the home and “I think people are going to technologies.” driver fatigue or impairment. foldable phone and 5G phone tronics unveiled its new lifestyles. adjust to this world and adopt Trade and industry attend- According to a report by the markets, with rivals plotting foldable phone concept that The show opens against the the technology that comes along ees will see wearables offering consulting firm Accenture, emo- a catch-up in the nascent, but folds vertically like an old flip backdrop of mounting concerns that suits them.” more precise health monitoring, tional data “is reaching a tip- growing segments. phone. Its first foldable phone, on how data gathered from con- CES 2020 will feature devices for both athletes and seniors; ping point of opportunity” for “Samsung Electronics will which folds horizontally, was nected devices can be exploited infused with artificial intelli- cars with better computer vi- firms which can decode human unveil new, innovative devices launched in September af - by marketers, governments and gence for cars, homes, smart sion to avoid accidents; televi- emotions for marketing, market that will shape the next dec- ter delays caused by screen hackers. There has also been cities and for personal health, sions designed as smart home research and political polling ade of mobile experiences,” problems. a wave of attacks from politi- with many gadgets embracing hubs; and robots with features purposes. the South Korean firm said at Samsung Electronics has cians and activists against dom- voice assistants from Amazon, to help understand or express “Emotional data will chal- an invitation letter. It said the traditionally unveiled new inant tech platforms, as well Google and others. emotion. lenge companies because event at 11 a.m. Pacific time versions of its flagship Galaxy as intense trade frictions be- “We will see AI and apps being A series of panel discussions reading people’s emotions is a will be live-streamed. S phones ahead of the Mobile tween the world’s economic and used to make people’s lives eas- will also explore questions delicate business,” an Accen- In a teaser image, Sam - World Congress which takes technology powers, the United ier, such as speech recognition around consumer privacy, the ture report said. “Emotions are sung hinted at two phones - places in February. States and China. and object recognition,” said importance of 5G wireless, tech- highly personal, and users will one shaped like a square and A Samsung spokeswoman Roger Kay, an analyst with Sarah Brown of the Consumer nology for travel and tourism, have concerns about privacy another with a rectangular declined to comment on which Endpoint Technologies Associ- Technology Association, which the promise of quantum com- invasion, security breaches, form. models it will unveiled at the ates, said consumers are slowly organizes the show that in - puting and how lifestyles will emotional manipulation, and In October, Samsung Elec- upcoming event. coming to terms with the digital cludes media previews Sunday change in “smart cities.” bias.” MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 12

Daimler recalls 744,000 US Mercedes-Benz vehicles UK election result ‘blew away’ The large recall covers• more two dozen vehicles from C-Class, argument for 2nd Brexit vote CLK-Class, CLS-Class and E-Class model lines Prime Minister Boris Reuters | Washington Johnson’s• Conservatives We are going to leave Representative picture won a large majority in the EU in the next erman automaker Daimler last month’s election few weeks and it is GAG said on Saturday it will Dealers will inspect the glass important for all of recall 744,000 Mercedes-Benz panel bonding and replace the Reuters | London us, including myself, vehicles in the United States sliding roof if necessary, the to recognise that the from the 2001 through 2011 company said. argument about leave model years because the sun- Last month, Mercedes-Benz ritain’s December elec- Boris Johnson roof glass panel could detach USA agreed to a $20 million tion “blew away” the and remain goes with and pose a hazard. civil penalty over its handling Bargument for a second it trist who could struggle to win The large recall covers of US vehicle recalls after a Brexit referendum and the STARMER over left-wing members who more two dozen vehicles from year-long U.S. government country must move on from its backed Corbyn, but is the book- C-Class, CLK-Class, CLS-Class investigation into 1.4 million divide over whether or not to makers’ favourite and a YouGov and E-Class model lines. The recalled vehicles. leave the European Union, the poll carried out at the end of last automaker said the bonding Under the terms of the set- frontrunner to lead the oppo- majority in last month’s elec- gument for a second referen- month gave him a strong lead between the glass panel and tlement, the automaker will sition Labour Party said yes- tion, paving the way for Britain dum, rightly or wrongly, and we over other candidates. the sliding room frame might pay $13 million and faces an- terday. to leave the EU at the end of have to adjust to that situation, Starmer said Labour need- not meet specifications and other $7 million fine if it does Keir Starmer, a former senior January. the argument has to move on.” ed to focus on Britain’s future could lead to sunroofs detach- not comply with the agree - public prosecutor and Labour’s “We are going to leave the EU Labour leader Jeremy Cor- ties with the EU. “The argu- ing. ment. The US National High- Brexit spokesman, took a lead- in the next few weeks and it is byn’s decision to step down fol- ment now is can we insist on Owners who paid for repairs way Traffic Safety Adminis- ing role in persuading the party important for all of us, including lowing the election defeat has that close relationship with the for the issue will be able to seek tration said the company failed to back a second referendum myself, to recognise that the ar- opened the way for a leadership EU,” he said. “My concern is less reimbursements from Daimler. to notify owners in a timely but said the lack of clarity over gument about leave and remain battle that will determine the about technical membership A Mercedes-Benz USA spokes- fashion in some recalls, did not how Labour would campaign in goes with it,” Starmer said in an direction of the party, which of the EU now, it is if we shift man said on Saturday he did submit all reports and did not such a vote had been damaging. interview with the BBC. moved to the left during the our focus from the EU, move not have a worldwide vehicle launch at least two recalls in a Prime Minister Boris John- “We will have left the EU and veteran socialist’s tenure. away from those standards and total for the recall. timely fashion. son’s Conservatives won a large this election blew away the ar- Starmer is seen as a party cen- arrangements.”

Daimler, Volvo mull combustion engine cooperation to have growth of The Automobilwoche said 1.3pc in 2019 and 2020 Geely bought this new division would start Volvo• Cars in 2010 operating by the end of March, which could be a possible start- Much of France from Ford Motor Co ing point for cooperation with • Daimler, while a further step has been crippled Reuters | Berlin could be a partnership to devel- by a national op electric power trains. transport strike Geely and Daimler have said uxury German carmaker they plan to build the next gen- Reuters | Paris LDaimler and Volvo Cars, eration of Smart electric cars owned by China’s Geely, are in China through a joint ven- considering cooperating to cut ture and the two companies are rench economic growth the costs of developing combus- also cooperating on a premium Fshould come in at 1.3 per tion engines, a magazine report- ride-hailing service in China. cent for both 2019 and 2020, ed on Sunday, citing unnamed Geely bought Volvo Cars in the country’s finance minister, French Finance Minister Bruno Le company sources. 2010 from Ford Motor Co, al- Bruno Le Maire, told Le Jour- Maire The Automobilwoche weekly lowing the Swedish brand to nal du Dimanche newspaper cited a Volvo manager as say- Representative picture operate on an arms-length basis. in an interview. port strike since the pen - ing there were initial talks with But in recent years, it has deep- Le Maire said France had sions protests began a month Daimler, but no concrete plans, developing in a positive way, but share costs. ened cooperation between the a “good and solid” econom - ago. Another big nationwide while a company spokesman declined to comment further. In October, Volvo said it two brands. ic outlook, in spite of global demonstration is due on Jan. 9. said it was too early to talk about Global tariffs, accelerated by would merge its engine develop- Volvo already supplies en- trade tensions and a possible President Emmanuel Ma- firm projects, although it was a trade war between China and ment and manufacturing assets gines to some Geely-branded hit caused by a wave of strikes cron has said reforms are es- not excluding anybody. the United States, as well as with those of Geely, creating vehicles, sharing technology held in protest against govern- sential to simplify the convo- A Daimler spokesman said higher investment requirements a division to supply in-house through Geely’s Lynk brand. ment plans to change France’s luted pensions system, but his the company’s cooperation with for electric and autonomous brands and also potentially oth- Both companies share and de- pension system. opponents say they will lead to Geely, which owns a 10% stake vehicles, are forcing carmakers ers with next-generation com- velop common vehicle plat- Much of France has been many French people having to in the German carmaker, was to seek new ways to cut and bustion and hybrid engines. forms. crippled by a national trans- work for longer. Japan orders tighter immigration procedures after Ghosn flees Reuters | Tokyo said Ghosn’s “apparently illegal” unclear what Japan might do might be difficult to return senior Lebanese security official A Turkish private jet operator apan yesterday said it would departure was very regrettable to bring him back. It has extra- Ghosn from Lebanon. said it was not yet clear whether has said two of its planes were Jtighten immigration meas- and added there was no record dition treaties only with Mori was due to brief report- Ghosn would be summoned for used illegally to carry Ghosn, ures after former Nissan boss of him leaving the country. She the United States ers in Tokyo on Monday questioning over the warrant, with an employee falsifying the Carlos Ghosn fled the country promised a thorough investi- and South morning. but added that Lebanon does not lease records to exclude the ex- while on bail, its first official gation and said authorities had Korea, extradite its citizens. ecutive’s name. response to an astonishing es- issued an international notice mean- Arrest warrant The Wall Street Journal has According to the company, cape that has transformed the for his arrest. ing it Lebanon this reported that Ghosn slipped out MNG Jet, he flew from Osaka, executive into an international “I have instructed the Immi- week said it had of Japan aboard a private jet hid- Japan, to Istanbul, where he fugitive. gration Services Agency to co- received an In- den in a large black case typically changed planes and flew to Bei- Authorities have remained ordinate with related agencies terpol arrest used to carry audio gear. He was rut. quiet after Ghosn revealed on to further tighten departure warrant for accompanied by a pair of men Turkey has detained seven Tuesday that he had fled to his procedures,” she said, adding Ghosn. It has with names matching those of people, including four pilots, as childhood home of Lebanon to that Ghosn’s skipping bail was said he entered American security contractors, part of an investigation into his escape a “rigged” justice system not justified, and that the court the country le- the newspaper said, citing peo- passage through Istanbul. in Japan. All government offices had revoked his bail. gally. ple familiar with an investiga- Japanese prosecutors said the and most businesses in Japan Separately, prosecutors is- A tion into the escape. legal system guarantees all de- have been shut for the new year sued a statement de - There was no X-ray conduct- fendants a prompt, open and fair holidays. fending Japan’s ed of the large case, which was trial. They added that Ghosn’s The former Nissan Motor and justice system, loaded onto the private jet that more than 100 days of detention Renault chairman was arrest- saying his depar- was believed to have carried were justified on the grounds ed in Tokyo in November 2018 ture ignored the Ghosn, Japanese broadcaster that he “had an extensive do - and faced multiple charges of legal system NHK reported. mestic and overseas network financial wrongdoing, which he and amount- and that he could deploy his con- denies. ed to a crime. Carlos Ghosn siderable influence to conceal Justice Minister Masako Mori It remains evidence.” 13 SUNDAY, JANUARY 5, 2020

غغغغغغ (JOKER (15+)(THRILLER/CRIME/DRAMA غ (REALMS (18+) (CRIME/HORROR) FROZEN 2 (PG)(ANIMATION/ADVENTURE/COMEDY CITY CENTRE: 7.45 + 9.45 + 11.45 PM CITY CENTRE: 11.00 AM + 1.15 + 3.30 + 5.45 + 8.00 + 10.15 PM CITY CENTRE: 6.15 + 9.00 + 11.45 PM SEEF (II): 11.15 AM + 1.15 + 3.15 + 5.15 + 7.15 + 9.15 + 11.15 PM SEEF (II):11.00 AM + 1.15 + 3.30 + 5.45 + 8.00 + 10.15 PM JOAQUIN PHOENIX, ZAZIE BEETZ, ROBERT DE NIRO RYAN KELLEY, MADISON MCKINLEY, PRAYA LUNDBERG KRISTEN BELL, IDINA MENZEL, JOSH GAD غغغغ(MALEFICENT 2: MISTRESS OF EVIL (PG SAB KUSHAL MANGAL (PG-13) DABANGG 3 (PG-15)(HINDI/ACTION/COMEDY) CITY CENTRE:12.00 + 4.45 + 9.30 PM OASIS JUFFAIR : 12.15 + 3.00 + 5.45 + 8.30 + 11.15 PM OASIS JUFFAIR :2.00 + 7.45 PM ANGELINA JOLIE, TERESA MAHONEY, MICHELLE PFEIFFER CITY CENTRE:12.30 + 3.15 + 6.00 + 8.45 + 11.30 PM CITY CENTRE: 2.30 + 8.30 PM SEEF (I): 10.30 AM + 1.00 + 3.45 + 6.30 + 9.15 + 12.00 MN SEEF (II): 10.30 AM + 1.30 + 4.45 + 8.00 + 11.15 PM DRIVING LICENCE (PG-15)(MALAYALAM) AKSHAYE KHANNA, PRIYAANK SHARMA, RIVA KISHAN SALMAN KHAN, SONAKSHI SINHA, WARINA HUSSAIN OASIS JUFFAIR: 12.30 + 3.15 + 6.00 + 8.45 + 11.30 PM SEEF (I): 12.00 + 2.45 + 5.30 + 8.15 + 11.00 PM JUMANJI THE NEXT LEVEL (PG-15) STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER (PG-13) AL HAMRA: 6.00 + (12.00 MN THURS/FRI.) CITY CENTRE: 10.45 AM + 1.30 + 4.15 + 7.00 + 9.45 PM + (12.30 MN THURS/ OASIS JUFFAIR:2.15 + 8.00 PM FRI) CITY CENTRE: 11.00 AM + 2.00 + 5.00 + 8.00 + 11.00 PM CITY CENTRE (ATMOS) : 10.30 AM + 1.00 + 3.45 + 6.30 + 9.15 + 12.00 MN DAISY RIDLEY, MARK HAMILL, ADAM DRIVER CITY CENTRE (IMAX 2D) :12.00 + 2.45 + 5.30 + 8.15 + 11.00 PM CITY CENTRE (VIP I) :12.30 + 3.15 + 6.00 + 8.45 + 11.30 PM SEEF (I): 12.45 + 3.30 + 6.15 + 9.00 + 11.45 PM WADI AL SAIL12.30 + 3.15 + 6.00 + 8.45 + 11.30 PM DWAYNE JOHNSON, JACK BLACK, KEVIN HART AL FELOUS (THE MONEY) (PG-15)(ARABIC/COMEDY/CRIME) OASIS JUFFAIR : 11.30 AM + 5.15 + 11.00 PM CITY CENTRE: 11.00 AM + 1.30 + 4.00 + 6.30 + 9.00 + 11.30 PM + (12.30 MN THURS/FRI) SEEF (I):11.15 AM + 1.45 + 4.15 + 6.45 + 9.15 + 11.45 PM SEEF (II):(12.45 MN THURS/FRI) WADI AL SAIL: 10.45 AM + 1.45 + 3.45 + 6.15 + 8.45 + 11.15 PM TAMER HOSNY, ZEINA, KHALID EL-SAWI

THE GRUDGE (15+) (HORROR/THRILLER/DRAMA) OASIS JUFFAIR : 12.00 + 2.15 + 4.30 + 6.45 + 9.00 + 11.15 PM OASIS JUFFAIR (VIP):2.00 + 6.30 + 11.00 PM CITY CENTRE:10.30 AM + 12.45 + 3.00 + 5.15 + 7.30 9.45 + 12.00 MN + (12.30 MN THURS/FRI) CITY CENTRE (VIP II) : 12.15 + 2.30 + 4.45 + 7.00 + 9.15 + 11.30 PM SEEF (II): 12.15 + 2.30 + 4.45 + 7.00 + 9.15 + 11.30 PM + (12.30 MNTHURS/FRI) غ (WADI AL SAIL: 10.30 AM + 12.30 + 2.45 + 5.00 + 7.15 + 9.30 + 11.45 PM GOOD NEWWZ (15+)(HINDI/COMEDY/DRAMA ANDREA RISEBOROUGH, DEMIAN BICHIR, JOHN CHO OASIS JUFFAIR : 11.00 AM + 2.00 + 5.00 + 8.00 + 11.00 PM SEEF (I): 11.30 AM + 2.30 + 5.30 + 8.30 + 11.30 PM CATS (PG) (MUSICAL/DANCE/FANTASY) AKSHAY KUMAR, KAREENA KAPOOR, DILJIT DOSANJH CITY CENTRE11.30 AM + 2.00 + 4.30 + 7.00 + 9.30 + 12.00 MN غغغ SEEF (II): 11.00 AM + 1.30 + 4.00 + 6.30 + 9.00 + 11.30 PM 21 BRIDGES (PG-15)(CRIME/ACTION/THRILLER) 21 WADI AL SAIL: 11.00 AM + 3.45 + 8.30 PM CITY CENTRE: 12.15 + 2.30 + 4.45 + 7.00 + 9.15 + 11.30 PM JAMES CORDEN, JUDI DENCH, JASON DERULO CHADWICK BOSEMAN, SIENNA MILLER, STEPHAN JAMES THAMBI (PG-13)(TAMIL) OASIS JUFFAIR : 11.30 AM + 5.15 + 11.00 PM غغغغغغغ غغغغ (RICHARD SAYS GOODBYE (18+) (COMEDY/DRAMA) TRAUMA CENTRE (PG-15)(THRILLER KARTHI, JYOTHIKA, SATHYARAJ OASIS JUFFAIR (VIP): 11.45 AM + 4.15 + 8.45 PM CITY CENTRE: 2.30 + 7.15 + 12.00 MN CITY CENTRE: 10.30 AM + 12.30 + 2.45 + 5.00 + 7.15 + 9.30 + 11.45 PM SEEF (II): 11.45 AM + 2.00 + 4.15 + 6.30 + 8.45 + 11.00 PM VALIYAPERUNNAL (PG-15)(MALAYALAM) SEEF (II): 12.15 + 2.30 + 4.45 + 7.00 + 9.15 + 11.30 PM BRUCE WILLIS, NICKY WHELAN, STEVE GUTTENBERG OASIS JUFFAIR: 1.45 + 7.45 PM WADI AL SAIL: 1.30 + 6.15 + 11.00 PM SHANE NIGAM, HIMIKA BOSE, JOJU GEORGE JOHNNY DEPP, ZOEY DEUTCH, RON LIVINGSTON IP MAN 4 (PG-15)(ACTION/DRAMA/BIOGRAPHY) CITY CENTRE: 10.30 AM + 3.45 + 9.00 PM (THRISSUR POORAM (PG-15) (MALAYALAM غ (NORM OF THE NORTH 3: KING SIZED ADVENTURE (G SEEF (I): 12.15 + 2.30 + 4.45 + 7.00 + 9.15 + 11.30 PM OASIS JUFFAIR :11.30 AM + 2.30 + 5.30 + 8.30 + 11.30 PM OASIS JUFFAIR (KIDS CINEMA): 1.00 + 5.15 + 9.30 PM DONNIE YEN, SCOTT ADKINS, KWOK-KWAN CHAN SPIES IN DISGUISE (PG) WADI AL SAIL: 8.00 + 11.00 PM CITY CENTRE:11.45 AM + 1.45 + 3.45 + 5.45 PM AL HAMRA: 12.00 + 9.00 PM غ (OASIS JUFFAIR (KIDS CINEMA): 10.45 AM + 3.00 + 7.15 + 11.30 PM KNIVES OUT (PG-15)(CRIME/COMEDY/THRILLER SEEF (II): 10.30 AM + 2.30 + 6.45 + 11.00 PM CITY CENTRE:11.00 AM + 1.15 + 3.30 + 5.45 + 8.00 + 10.15 PM JAYASURYA, SWATHI REDDY, GAYATHRI ARUN WADI AL SAIL: 12.00 + 2.00 + 4.00 + 6.00 PM CITY CENTRE: 11.45 AM + 5.45 + 11.45 PM JENNIFER CAMERON, BRIAN DOBSON, MICHAEL DOBSON CITY CENTRE:DUBBED IN ARABIC: 11.30 AM + 1.45 + 4.00 PM DANIEL CRAIG, CHRIS EVANS, ANA DE ARMAS SEEF (II): 11.15 AM + 1.30 + 3.45 + 6.00 + 8.15 + 10.30 PM MUNTHIRI MONCHAN (PG-15) (MALAYALAM) DISTURBING THE PEACE (PG-15) (ACTION/DRAMA) SEEF (II):DUBBED IN ARABIC: 12.15 + 4.30 + 8.45 PM LE MANS ‘66 (PG-13)(DRAMA/SPORT/BIOGRAPHY) AL HAMRA:3.00 PM WADI AL SAIL: 11.15 AM + 3.45 + 6.00 + 10.30 PM MANESH KRISHNAN, DEEPIKA ANIL, SALIM KUMAR, ANJALI NAIR, VISHNU SEEF (II): 11.45 AM + 1.45 + 3.45 + 5.45 + 7.45 + 9.45 + 11.45 PM CITY CENTRE: 12.45 + 6.00 + 11.15 PM NAMBIAR GUY PEARCE, DEVON SAWA, KELLY GREYSON WADI AL SAIL: DUBBED IN ARABIC: 1.30 + 8.15 PM MATT DAMON, CHRISTIAN BALE, JON BERNTHAL WILL SMITH, TOM HOLLAND, KAREN GILLAN

MOVIE REVIEW ‘Zombieland: Double Tap’ is a genuinely thrilling sequel

developed the capacity to dodge include Elvis’ Graceland and a The original cast of bullets. “The T-800s!” Colum- hippy commune called Babylon. • bus calls them in honour of The Not all the retreading is brain Zombieland reunites for Terminator’s irrevocable invin- dead, however. The “zombie kill more undead slaughter cibility. Others aren’t so lucky of the week” leitmotif is a hoot, in a sequel that feels DON’T MISS IT in the natural selection scheme as is the moment when an Italian like a time capsule of things. The “Homers” are as tips over the Leaning Tower of slow as Homer Simpson, while Pisa on a couple stray zombies. ‘Zombieland: Double the “Hawkings” are intelligent Harrelson yelling catchphras- he “double tap” in Zom- Tap’ is decidedly meant yet immobile. es like “Lets kick some dicks!” bieland: Double Tap re- Somewhere in between the show returning writers Rhett fers to shooting a zombie for fans of the original, two is the scene stealing Mad- Reese and Paul Wernick (who T and the film makes no twice to see if it’s still alive, and ison (Zoey Deutch). A dumb also penned the droll deadpan that’s what the filmmakers have bones to hide this fact blonde dressed from head to of Deadpool) at their best. The done here — shot the zombie toe in pink, Madison made it this writing duo have a sadistic sense comedy a second time to see if palms and a long list of rules far because zombies eat brains, of humour, but they seem to be From left: Zoey Deutch, Emma Stone, Jesse Eisenberg and Woody Harrelson in there’s still life after the charm- for survival. She’s still a badass and she doesn’t have any. She’s phoning it in when it comes to ‘Zombieland: Double Tap’ ing original. Lucky for all of us, who’s tired of Columbus’ Presi- a welcome presence. Likewise, character development and ac- there is. The film set box office Eisenberg) declares in the open- Redux. It may be a comedy but dent Taft jokes. While that fric- so are Luke Wilson and Thomas tion sequences. records for the genre upon its ing voice-over. “So thanks for it’s extremely violent. It opens tion is happening, Tallahassee Middleditch playing Columbus Action/comedies shouldn’t release 10 years ago, and it’s picking us.” He’s not lying. Ever with a slow motion action se- (Woody Harrelson) is trying to and Tallahasee’s doppelgangers. just be one or the other, and this clear that the meta humour still since Danny Boyle’s 28 Days Lat- quence in front of an abandoned connect with Little Rock (Ab- Despite the endearing new- sequel would’ve been better had works. Still, while seeing the er released in 2002, the genre’s White House, where skulls ex- igail Breslin), the daughter he comers the sequel has nothing it striven for more. The tradition quartet of heroes reflexively popularity spread faster than plode like dropped watermel- never had. These contrasting new to offer audiences. It’s as of depth embedded into zombie poking fun at the walking dead a world-ending disease. From ons. After a couple minutes of personalities are played to co- if Fleischer told his screenwrit- films like The Night of the Liv- is as clever as it was in 2009, the Shaun of the Dead to World War stoic closeups, and a couple doz- medic perfection. ers to take the same script from ing Dead — sociopolitical sub- scattershot tone and obscene Z, the undead have become an en dead zombies, the remaining As before, the fun comes from the first film and simply change texts on race, globalism and cap- imagery aren’t groundbreaking enduring and even beloved part cast members make themselves watching four people who usu- the wording — much like a stu- italism — are vague if nowhere anymore. Instead of trying to of our culture. In a matter of at home in the Oval Office. ally wouldn’t talk to each other dent rewording an essay they to be found. It would have been push the boundaries again, di- weeks kids are going to be walk- Eisenberg returns as the too- in a normal world become family handed in the prior semester. nice to see Zombieland: Double rector Ruben Fleischer settles ing from door to door as zombies smart-for-his-own-good Co- during the apocalypse. Now they That applies to the road trip Tap have something more to say for more of the same. for Halloween. lumbus, and he’s still dating the need each other more than ever. premise (one member wanders than one=liners, or even add a “You have a lot of choices By the way, in case there’s wicked Wichita (Emma Stone). With Darwins’ Theory of Evolu- off; the rest venture off to find few original jokes. Instead, it when it comes to zombie en - any question, do not bring the Their relationship is on the fritz. tion extending to zombies, some them), and it especially applies merely brings the old ones back tertainment,” Columbus (Jessie youngsters to see Zombieland: He’s still neurotic, with sweaty of the flesh eating creatures have to similarly themed pit stops that to life. 14 MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020

Greta Gerwing and Saoirse Ronan

Daniel Craig’s JLo invited to Salman Khan jokes “very emotional’’ Greta Gerwing has been SRK made a film goodbye to James Washington by massive motivation for after his crush Kiran Bond series Ruth Bader me to give direction a go: Ginsburg Saoirse Ronan Los Angeles Washington

inger-actress Jennifer ctor Saoirse Ronan says she always want- Lopez has been invit- ed to pursue direction, and working with ed to Washington, D.C. filmmakers like Greta Gerwig has in - S A Salman Khan by US Supreme Court Justice Ruth spired her to think seriously about it. Bader Ginsburg. The actor has collaborated with Gerwig on Mumbai Daniel Craig Lopez said she and her fiance Alex critically-acclaimed movies -- “Lady Bird” and Rodriguez, had celebrated their en- “Little Women” -- and she said she always found uperstar Shah Rukh Los Angeles gagement in March 2019 by watching the job of a director very fascinating. SKhan’s obsessive lover Ginsburg’s RBG documentary, reports “I think I’ve always wanted to. When I think role in the 1993 film “Darr” aceshowbiz.com. about when I was younger and I would do press is still remembered by many ctor Daniel Craig Ginsburg’s docu- for films, they would always ask me, What was for his anti-hero act and Ahas reflected on mentary chroni- it like to work with all the famous people?’ I’d Kiran (played by Juhi Chaw- filming his last scene cled her groundbreak- be like, It was great.’ But the director is who I la). His fellow actor and as James Bond in the ing career and her always loved the most, and they were the one friend Salman Khan joked upcoming part of the marriage to Martin D. that I wanted to, make happy and I wanted to how SRK used his former spy franchise. He says it Ginsburg, her husband be close to them. crush’s name in the movie. was very emotional. for over five decades un- “It’s something that I would absolutely love Salman went down memo- “No Time to Die” will be til his death from cancer to do and yeah, it’s just because I’ve picked up ry lane and opened up about Craig’s fifth and final ap- in 2010. Ruth Bader so many things from other directors that I’ve his crush, Kiran, during an pearance as the British Se- They were so moved by Ginsburg worked with. Watching Greta, and seeing what episode of “Bigg Boss”. cret Service agent and the the documentary, the “Hustlers” star decided she’s done over the last few years, has been a Interacting with his Hollywood actor revealed to contact the Supreme Court Justice, 86, and massive motivation for me to give it a go,” Ronan show’s guests and actors that it wasn’t easy when it offer her VIP seats to the Washington, D.C. stop told Deadline of becoming a director. Ajay Devgn and Kajol, Sal- came to saying goodbye to on her “It’s My Party” tour. And the actor already has “Little Women” man joked: “Wahi se shuru the movie’s team, reports “On the day that me and Alex got engaged, and “Lady Bird” co-star Timothee Chalamet on hua, fir maine incident Shah digitalspy.com. we watched her documentary that night, and it board for her directorial debut. Rukh Khan ko bataya aur “It was potentially a bit was really about her marriage, a lot of it. Yes, it “Timmy said he’d be in a film that I’d direct so usne film bana daali (That of an anti-climax, because was about her accomplishments and everything that’s good. If I can get Timothee Chalamet, I’m is where it all began. I told they usually are,” Craig told she’s done on the bench, but it was also about this sorted. There’s so many actors that I’ve worked about my crush to Shah Empire. “Actually, it was amazing marriage that she had of support, mutual with that I would absolutely love to direct,” Rukh Khan and he made a very emotional.” support and understanding,” Lopez told Variety. Ronan said. film about it.” “The whole crew came round and gathered out- side. Everybody was hugging each other. I Deepika spends birthday with acid victims in Lucknow tried to make a speech Lucknow Katrina and couldn’t get it out,” he Deepika’s heart, according to her own admis- grooves on “Afghan added. ollywood star Deepika Padukone on sion. jalebi’’ at make-up artist’s The actor also spoke Sunday celebrated her 34th birthday Two acid attack survivors from Lucknow wedding about how he came to ac- Bhere at the Sheroes Hangout cafe that have played roles in “Chhapak”. Panaji cept the iconic role. is run by acid attack survivors. Deepika arrived here on Sunday accom- “I was completely ready Deepika plays an acid attack victim in panied by husband and actor Ranveer to just go, “That’s the way I her upcoming film “Chhapak” that re- Singh. She had started her birthday ollywood actress Katrina Kaif shook- see Bond. You don’t like it? leases on January 10. The film, directed celebrations from Mumbai airport, a-leg at her friend and make-up artist Fair enough,’’” Craig said. by Meghna Gulzar, is extremely close to where she spotted cutting a birthday BDaniel Bauer’s wedding in Goa. cake. The video, shared by Mum- A video of Katrina dancing on the number bai-based celebrity photogra- “Afghan jalebi” from the 2015 film “Phantom” pher Viral Bhayani shared on has taken over social media. CLASSIFIEDS Instagram, has gone viral. In the clip, Katrina, who is dressed in a By the time Deepi - powder blue lehenga choli, is seen grooving ka reached the Sheroes with Bauer on the dance floor. Hangout cafe here, a huge Bauer tied the knot with his partner Ty- crowd of fans had gath- rone Braganza as per the Hindu traditions ered there. Many of them with ceremonies like mehendi and haldi. came with cakes to cele- The “Bharat” actress has shared a string brate their favourite star’s of photographs from the wedding. Vacant Position for IT Teacher birthday. Katrina shared pictures of the new- Applicants are invited for the position of The acid attack survivors at the lyweds Bauer and Braganza, who IT teacher with required quali cation. cafe were excited to see Deepi- wore matching white kurta-py- Conditions:- ka and the actor spoke to them jamas and paired it with Applicants should have B.A with B.Ed. 2 to 5 years of experience serving in about their stories. A long selfie light pink dupattas. Well-known Educational system. session with them followed. English will be the Medium of Education. The Applicant should have a valid Residence Permit.(For Non-Bahrainis) Please forward your C.V to : [email protected] Kidman, Jackman rally to support Australia as wildfires rage Los Angeles

bevy of Hollywood celebrities like Nicole Kidman, Pink, Hugh Jack- Aman have come out in support of Australia as massive wildfires rage across the country. Celebrities are making donations to organi- sations that support fire relief and urging their Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman followers on social media to do so as well, reports variety.com. “Wolver’’ne” star Hugh Jackman Singer Pink posted a list of organisations shared a picture of with links to or- that her followers can donate to and pledged ganisations receiving donations and 17th January, 2020 to donate $500,000 to the local fire services. captioned it: “How can you h’’lp?” “My heart goes out to our friends and “Queer Eye” star Jonathan Van Ness wrote family in Oz,” she wrote. that his “heart has been broken these last days Australian native Nicole Kidman shared watching the situation deteriorate there... the same list and added her pledge of Go to the link in my bio & donate to $500,000, writing that “our families’’ support, Celeste Barber’s Australia fundr’’iser Please Call / WhatsApp: +973 38862215, 33784481, 33911860 thoughts and prayers are with everyone affect- & if you’’re in a position to donate ed by the fires all over Australia.” that would be very much appreicated.” 15 MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 sports Ettihad dominate in overtime to beat Sitra Al Ettihad stay undefeated in Silver Division of Basketball League

TDT | Manama

l Ettihad needed over- BETTER time to put away Sitra 91- 84 last night in the Silver A KNOW Division of the Zain Bahrain Basketball League. The game was deadlocked at 75-all at the end of regulation, forcing the extra five-minute Sitra suffered only session. It was a thrilling finish their second loss in five to the fourth quarter, as Ammar matches, as they stay Mohammed Shabaan first gave amongst the top three Ettihad a 75-73 lead with a lay- up and only eight seconds to go. But then Mohammed Abdulla replied for Sitra with his own basket with just two seconds American Haminn Quantance remaining on the clock. was Nuwaidrat’s top scorer with In overtime, it was all Etti - 30 points. He also took down had as they scored the first 22 rebounds in the win. Hasan nine points without an answer Madan added 22 markers, in- from their opponents. Sitra only cluding five of his team’s impres- scored their first point with un- sive 13 three-pointers. Hassan der a minute-and-a-half remain- Abbas added 12 off the bench ing, and by then Ettihad had full while Ebrahim Albasri scored 11. control of the game. For Bahrain Club, Serbi - Shabaan scored 25 points to an-Bosnian professional Dragan lead Ettihad in the game. He Tubak had 18 and 23 rebounds in came off the bench and pro - the loss, while Jalal Akbar added vided his team a much-needed 10 as their only other player in spark. American professional double figures. William Byrd chipped in with Nuwaidrat’s Quantance drives to the basket as he is guarded by Bahrain Club’s Sitra’s Ebrahim tries to go for a basket but is defended closely by Ettihad’s Nuwaidrat’s win was their 20 points, 20 rebounds and five Hussain Lulu and Tubak Hassan Fahad third in five outings as they tied blocks; Nasser Almosawi added Sitra on the standings, while 14 points, seven rebounds and 21 rebounds, while Isa Ebrahim mained undefeated in five games the top three. by one, 34-35, heading into the Bahrain Club suffered their sec- seven assists; and Ali Ghadeer added 14 points and 11 rebounds as they continued to top the Sil- In yesterday’s other game, break. They outscored Bahrain ond defeat to go with two wins. had 13 points 14 rebounds and as a substitute. Mohammed Ha- ver Division standings. Sitra, on Nuwaidrat made easy work of Club by 17, 28-11, in the third League action continues on six assists. keem contributed 14 points and the other hand, suffered only Bahrain Club in an 81-60 victory. quarter to pull away from their Wednesday with one game in For Sitra, Serbian import Mi- Abdulla Ali had 11. their second loss, also in five Nuwaidrat enjoyed a domi- opponents, and then cruised in the Top Six, with Al Ahli facing los Macura had 30 points and With the result, Ettihad re- outings, as they stayed amongst nant second half after trailing the fourth to the final buzzer. Al Najma at 7.30pm.

Sibley, Denly build England lead against

Bahrain’s Olympic football team members with officials of Bahrain’s Embassy in Thailand during a reception. The Bahrainis are in Bangkok to compete in the 2020 AFC U-23 Championship, which kicks off on Wednesday. Bahrain are making their debut in the prestigious Asian Football Confederation (AFC) event, which also acts as the Asian qualifiers for next year’s Tokyo Olympics. The top three teams will book a seat at the Games. A total of 16 teams are taking part in the competition. The Bahrainis play in Group A of the preliminary round alongside Australia, Iraq and hosts Thailand. They open their tournament campaign against Joe Denly drives beyond the reach of Kagiso Rabada the host Thais on Wednesday

AFP | Newlands advantage on a pitch where batsmen have struggled to bat om Sibley and Joe Den- fluently. Dly stretched England’s Denly faced 111 balls, while lead on an attritional third Sibley was unbeaten on 44 off afternoon of the second Test 127 deliveries at tea. against South Africa at New- Anderson completed a lands yesterday after James five-wicket haul and Ben Anderson had polished off the Stokes set an England catch- home side’s first innnings in ing record at the start of the the morning. day when South Africa were England were 109 for two in bowled out for 223, giving Eng- their second innings at tea, an land a first innings lead of 46. overall lead of 155 runs. Anderson took both South Sibley and Denly put on 73 Africa’s remaining wickets as for the second wicket before the hosts were bowled out for Denly was out for 31 when he 223, adding only eight runs to hooked a short-pitched ball their overnight total. from Anrich Nortje and was Stokes set an England Test caught by Dwaine Pretorius record for a fielder when he at fine leg. held his fifth catch of the It was slow going, with the innings to dismiss last bats- partnership taking up 33 overs, man Nortje off Anderson’s National Guard players pose with their trophies after lifting the CBA 8-A side Tournament Trophy for Division A & B by defeating Hajweri CC. Man of the Match but it consolidated England’s bowling. Finals trophy was awarded to Fateh from National Guard. Sameer, Jamal and Atif collected the Best Batsman, Bowler and All-round trophies respectively MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2020 16

Drag and Drift Nights kicks Bahraini team make strong off thrills in the new year TDT | Manama specially configured venue at BIC’s car park that has been ahrain International Cir- surrounded by safety barriers. Bcuit (BIC) is all set for the It is the largest open tarmac start at 2020 Dakar Rally first adrenaline-pumping ac- area in Bahrain. tion of the new calendar year Both the drag and the drift- with the Ebrahim K Kanoo ing can be enjoyed for a single Bahrain JCW X-Raid Team drivers ranked second and third after first stage in Drag and Drift Nights taking fee of BD10.500. Participation place today at the world-class in just the drag racing or just Saudi Arabia motorsport facility in Sakhir. the drifting costs BD7.500. Reg- Drag and Drift Nights give istration can be done on site TDT | Manama participants the chance to take from 5pm, and the action will their very own cars or motor- be held from 6pm to 11pm. ahrain JCW X-Raid Team bikes and push them to their Those who would like to ex- made a strong start yes- limit either down BIC’s world- perience the drag or drift as a Bterday to the 2020 Dakar class drag strip or around the passenger can get into a par- Rally, which is being held for the circuit’s Vehicle Dynamics ticipant’s car for an additional first time in Saudi Arabia. Area, or both! BD4. Spectators can purchase The world’s most fearsome It is one of the most popu- tickets for BD2 apiece. off-road race launched with lar activities on offer at “The Also as part of the evening’s hundreds of the planet’s best Home of Motorsport in the drag racing programme, BIC is drivers, navigators and riders Middle East” attracting large offering the immensely thrill- tackling a gruelling rally-raid numbers of participants each ing Dragster Xperience. This is route like no other. time it is held. one of the circuit’s most unique After 11 editions in South BIC’s quarter-mile strip hosts and ultimate-adrenaline activ- America, the race has switched the drag racing action. BIC is ities, as it gives participants a to Saudi with 12 stages over a member of the prestigious taste of pure speed as they are 7,500km, including three su- National Hot Rod Associa - taken from zero to 100kph in per-tough stages that are longer tion (NHRA) Worldwide Net- just one second while seated in than 750km and 75 percent of work, and it is where some of a Top Dragster. The Dragster the rally taking place on sand. the region’s best, World re - Experience costs BD42. In attendance at yesterday’s cord-breaking drag racers go Safety standards of the opening of the event were Bah- head to head in the national highest level are followed at rain Motor Federation President championship. all times during the evening’s Shaikh Abdulla bin Isa Al Khal- Meanwhile, the circuit’s events for both drivers and ifa and Bahrain International Vehicle Dynamics Area is a spectators alike. Circuit Chief Executive Shaikh Sainz and Cruz in their no. 305 challenger during yesterday’s first stage Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa. Competing in self-devel - sandy plateaus and rocky sec- Of the event and of Bahrain’s oped and constructed Mini tors where we had to walk on participation, Shaikh Abdulla John Cooper Works and Mini eggshells.” said: “This is as much a moment John Cooper Works Buggy, Sainz commented: “We got of pride for Bahrain, as it is for Bahrain JCW X-Raid Team lost once and had to backtrack, our region. Our participation features world champion driv- KNOW WHAT which cost us some time. We shows Bahrain’s advances in the ers Stephane Peterhansel and also had a flat tyre. However, it motorsports world, inspired no and co-drivers wasn’t too bad after all because doubt by Bahrain’s pioneering Paulo Fiuza and . I was under the impression we’d move to host Formula One since They ranked second and third The race has switched to lost 14 or 15 minutes. You really 2004. amongst the competing cars af- Saudi Arabia after 11 edi- need to pay attention to navi- “An event of such global mag- ter the 752km first stage, which tions in gation.” nitude presented the Kingdom started off in and ended In today’s second stage, the of Saudi Arabia with a monu- in Al Wajh yesterday. racing continues on from Al mental opportunity to showcase Peterhansel and Fiuza in car Wajh to Neom, with competi- its unique natural landscape, as no. 302 completed the stage in “We wandered around a bit tors enjoying a shorter day at well as its keenness and enthu- A car in action during a drag race three hours 21 minutes 18 sec- and must have lost three to five 401km overall. siasm to bring global sporting onds – just two minutes and 14 minutes looking for a hidden Saudi became the first coun- events to the country and the seconds behind the top-placed waypoint,” said Peterhansel. try in the region to play host to region.” Agrorodeo team of Vaidotas “The directions were hard to the challenge, gaining the right The Dakar Rally, an annual Zala and Saulius Jurgelenas. understand in English. I must to hold it for the next five years. event which was first launched Tsitsipas whips Zverev as top Sainz and Cruz in the no. 305 be going soft in the head. A total of 550 drivers from 62 in Paris 1979, ran from Europe to car were not far behind their “In 21 editions of the Dakar, nations are exploring the vast the Senegalese city it is named names crash at ATP Cup teammates, completing the I’ve never had a co-driver talk and formidable desert terrains after for decades, then moved to stage just 36 seconds behind to me in English, so I need to of the largest country in the re- South America in 2009, where it them. get used to it. There were dunes, gion. remained until this year’s event. Aussies take control of New Zealand Test

AFP | Sydney

ustralia took a commanding A243-run lead over plucky New Zealand in the third Test in Sydney yesterday, looking set for a clean sweep of the series. 385 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece hits an innovative return against Alexander The Australians dismissed the Test wickets have been Zverev of Germany Black Caps for 251 to lead by 203 taken by Nathan Lyon runs on the first innings before AFP | Sydney after an off-season curtailed batting a second time in a bid by a lucrative exhibition tour. to build an overwhelming total tefanos Tsitsipas whipped The lacklustre German with two days remaining. San error-strewn Alexan- world number seven sent At stumps on day three, the fast bowler Matt Henry came der Zverev to win the battle down 10 double faults and hosts were 40 without loss with out to bat despite fracturing his of the big guns at the ATP Cup made just 45 percent of his David Warner on 23 and Joe left hand earlier in the match. yesterday, inflicting a second first serves, a worrying sign Burns not out 16, and were ex- Tom Blundell of New Zealand is bowled by Nathan Lyon of Australia Henry ducked out of the way successive defeat on the Ger- ahead of the opening Grand pected to bat on for some time of a couple of Mitchell Starc man in his warm-up for the Slam of the year. He lost to on the fourth day. here in front of your home another bullet on 28 when he thunderbolts directed at his Australian Open. Australia’s Alex de Minaur in Off-spinner Nathan Lyon crowd, in front of your family was caught by Travis Head at body before he was stumped On day three of the inaugu- his opening match on Friday, captured five for 68 to lead the and friends. Nice to go up on the deep midwicket only to be re- off Lyon’s bowling to end the ral 24-nation team event in throwing away a one-set lead. Australian bowling attack, with honours board.” called when James Pattinson New Zealand innings. Sydney, Brisbane and Perth, “I worked very hard for this Kiwi Test debutant Glenn Phil- Phillips, who only flew in on was found to have over-stepped It was the longest innings of a world number 11 David Goffin win, I found solutions, found lips top-scoring with a charmed the eve of the Test as cover for for a no-ball. disastrous lost series for the Ki- was another loser, along with my rhythm and my pace and knock of 52. a team weakened by a virus out- Phillips hit a cracking pull wis, bettering the 71 overs they Italy’s Fabio Fognini, ranked knew what I was doing on “We’re in a very good position break, was dropped twice and shot off Pat Cummins to raise faced in the second innings of one place below him. court,” said impressive 21-year- here,” said Lyon, who has now given a reprieve when caught his debut half-century before the second Test in Melbourne. Greek star Tsitsipas, who old Tsitsipas after his 6-1, 6-4 taken a career 385 Test wickets. off a no-ball. Cummins got him two balls lat- The Black Caps lost three won the 2019 season-ending walloping in Brisbane. “A lot of work to do in the morn- Lyon put down the two er, ripping through his defences wickets in the middle session ATP Finals in London and is “I was serving pretty okay ing and we have to see what lead caught-and-bowled chances to take off-stump for 52. with the experienced Ross Tay- now ranked six, was in a differ- and played clever again. I man- we the batsmen want to get to. when Phillips was on two and 17. Lyon bowled Will Somerville lor out lbw to Cummins for 22 ent league to Zverev, who only aged to stay calm and positive “It is pretty special to play The Kiwi batsman dodged and Neil Wagner for ducks and in the second over after lunch. began hitting balls a week ago in my head.”