JUMADA ALTHANI 4, 1441 AH WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29, 2020

28 Pages Max 21º Min 07º 150 Fils Established 1961

ISSUE NO: 18047 The First Daily in the Arabian Gulf www.kuwaittimes.net

Kuwait celebrates 14th Defying US, Britain approves Syria regime forces recapture Federer saves seven match 3 year of Amir’s reign 11 restricted 5G role for Huawei 24 most of key rebel-held town 28 points to set up Djokovic semi

Trump proposes Palestinian state with capital in eastern Jerusalem

White House map shows borders • Oman, UAE, Bahrain envoys attend announcement

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump yester- plan proposed by Trump. “The vision provides for a day proposed creation of a Palestinian state with a cap- demilitarized Palestinian state living peacefully along- Amir attends flag-hoisting event ital in eastern Jerusalem, dependent on Palestinians tak- side Israel, with Israel retaining security responsibility ing steps to become self-governing, in an effort to west of the Jordan River,” it said in a statement. achieve a peace breakthrough in their decades of con- The White House also released its proposal for the flict with Israel. “Today, Israel takes a big step towards future borders of Israeli and Palestinian states. The map peace,” Trump told a White House news conference, shows the West Bank area containing some 15 Israeli standing alongside visiting Israeli Prime Minister settlements, connected to the Gaza Strip area by only a Benjamin Netanyahu as he revealed key points of the tunnel. This would technically fulfill Trump’s promise of a plan already strongly rejected by the Palestinians. contiguous Palestinian state. Senior administration offi- “My vision presents a win-win opportunity for both cials, briefing Reuters on the plan the president sides, a realistic two state solution that resolves the risk announced at the White House, said that under Trump’s of Palestinian statehood to Israel’s security,” Trump proposed Middle East peace plan the will said. The White House later said that a future recognize Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. Palestinian state would remain demilitarized under the Continued on Page 24

KUWAIT: HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah attends a flag-raising ceremony at Bayan Palace yesterday. The Amir was given a 21-gun salute and warmly welcomed by army, police and National Guard person- nel. Sheikh Sabah then hoisted the flag and the national anthem was played. — KUNA (See Page 2)

sentence against a former minister, asked the convicts Ex-health minister, to pay KD 10,000 each to suspend the implementa- tion of the jail term, but asked all of them to return KD 81 million to the state. bedoon activist The minister and officials have been on trial before the special court for the past several months on graft handed jail terms charges. The minister was grilled by MP Rakan Al- Nasef over alleged financial and administrative viola- By B Izzak tions. Nasef yesterday welcomed the court verdict, describing it as “historic”, adding the verdict launches KUWAIT: The ministers court yesterday issued a a new phase in which more ministers and senior offi- seven-year jail sentence against a former health minis- cials will be tried. The lawmaker called on the prime ter and issued the same sentence against a former minister to closely watch ministers in order to prevent ministry undersecretary, a current senior official and any violations against public funds in the future. In an agent of a foreign company after convicting them another court case, the criminal court yesterday for squandering public funds. The court, in its first jail Continued on Page 24

The new premier also takes over as interior minister Qatar Amir appoints from predecessor Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al-Thani, although other key posts remain unchanged, including the defense, finance and energy portfolios. The trusted confidant as amir issued an order “to appoint His Excellency Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al-Thani as prime minis- new prime minister ter”, the amir’s office, the Amiri Diwan, said in a statement, adding it was effective immediately. DOHA: Qatar’s ruler appointed a trusted adviser as He was sworn in during a ceremony at the Diwan in prime minister yesterday, the government said, replac- downtown Doha early yesterday and security forces ing a veteran regime insider who had spearheaded blocked traffic to clear roads for VIP convoys moving diplomatic efforts to end a regional embargo on Doha. around the city. King’s College assistant pro- New Prime Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin fessor and regional expert Andreas Krieg described the Abdulaziz Al-Thani previously headed up the office of new head of government as “one of the most trusted gas-rich Qatar’s ruler, Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad advisors and confidants of the amir”. Al-Thani, according to the government website. Continued on Page 24

“Chinese people are currently engaged in a serious China fighting struggle against an epidemic of a new type of coron- avirus infection,” Xi told WHO chief Ghebreyesus. “The epidemic is a demon, and we cannot ‘demon’ virus as let this demon hide,” the Chinese leader said, pledging that the government would be transparent and release contagion spreads information on the virus in a “timely” manner. His com- ments came after anger simmered on Chinese social WUHAN, China: President Xi Jinping said yesterday media over the handling of the health emergency by China was in a struggle against a “demon” epidemic, as local officials in central Hubei province, where the dis- the death toll from the new SARS-like virus soared to ease first emerged in December. 106 and the first cases of human-to-human contagion Some experts have praised Beijing for being more were detected abroad. Xi made his remarks during reactive and open about this virus compared to its han- talks with head of the World Health Organization in dling of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Beijing as a host of nations prepared to airlift their citi- (SARS) epidemic of 2002-2003. zens from Wuhan, the epicenter of the outbreak. Continued on Page 24 2 Local Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Amir attends Kuwait’s flag-hoisting ceremony

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah attend the ceremony.

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- state officials attended the event. His Highness the Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah attended a flag-raising Amir was given a 21-bullet salute and was warmly ceremony at Bayan Palace yesterday. His Highness welcomed by Army, Police and National Guard per- the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber sonnel. Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad then hoisted the Al-Sabah, National Assembly Speaker Marzouq Al- flag and the National Anthem was played. Major His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Ghanem, His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Humoud Al-Shemari then recited a poem Sabah waves during the ceremony. Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and senior marking the occasion. —KUNA

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al- Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh (From left) Foreign Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Sabah, Oil Minister Khaled Al-Fadhel, Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah attend a flag-hoisting Justice Minister Fahad Al-Afasi, Audit Bureau chief Faisal Al-Shaya and Interior Minister ceremony at Bayan Palace yesterday. — Amiri Diwan photos Major Fahad Humoud Al-Shemari recites a poem during the ceremony. Anas Al-Saleh.

(From left) National Assembly Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanem, Deputy Chief of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah receives the Kuwait National Guard Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Kuwaiti flag. Highness Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. Kuwait Police and National Guard officers salute the political leadership.

(From left) Services Minister Mubarak Al-Harees, Social Affairs Minister Ghadeer Aseeri, Education Minister Saud Al-Harbi, Public Works Minister Rana Al-Fares and Foreign Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Sabah. Senior state officials seen in attendance.

Kuwaiti flag flutters aloft to kick off national celebrations

KUWAIT: A festive atmosphere pervaded Kuwait’s six governorates yesterday as a nationwide flag-hoisting ceremony was held to usher in national celebrations and mark the 14th anniversary of the ascension of His Highness the Amir. Leading the festivities in their respec- tive administrative divisions as Kuwait celebrates its 59th Independence Day and 29th Liberation Day, the coun- try’s six governors conveyed their heartiest congratula- tions to the Kuwaiti leadership and people over the joy- ous occasion. “The security and stability of Kuwait is plenty to be grateful for,” said Capital Governor Sheikh Talal Al-Khaled Al-Sabah, wishing the nation continued prosperity and development. Extending his well wishes to the Kuwaiti people, Hawally Governor retired Lieutenant General Sheikh Al-Ahmadi Governor Sheikh Fawaz Al-Sabah delivers a speech during a Ahmad Al-Nawaf Al-Sabah recalled Kuwait’s eventful flag-hoisting ceremony yesterday. history, saying such events are an opportunity for Kuwaitis to demonstrate their “patriotic fervor.” The Governor of Mubarak Al-Kabeer Mahmoud Bushehri congratulated the Kuwaiti leadership and people on the joyous occasion, saying he is immensely proud of his fel- low compatriots’ achievements across various fields. Speaking on the national celebrations, Al-Jahra Governor Nasser Al-Hajraf emphasized that His Highness the Amir’s wisdom and shrewdness have garnered him the adulation of the international community. “Our hearts are filled with joy as we celebrate these joyous events,” said Al-Ahmadi Governor Sheikh Fawaz Al-Sabah, who added that the sacrifices the Kuwaiti people made in the name of their country would forever stand the test of time. Al- KUWAIT: Hawally Governor retired Lieutenant Farwaniya Governor Sheikh Meshaal Al-Sabah said the General Sheikh Ahmad Al-Nawaf Al-Sabah hoists national flag represents an “emblem” of unity that repre- Kuwait’s flag during a ceremony yesterday. Children wave Kuwaiti flags during a ceremony organized by the Kuwait’s flag is hoisted during a ceremony organ- sents the sheer patriotism Kuwaitis exude. — KUNA — Photos by Fouad Al-Shaikh Mubarak Al-Kabeer Governorate yesterday. ized by Al-Farwaniya Governorate yesterday. 3 Local Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Kuwait celebrates 14-year anniversary of Amir’s reign

appointing him Amir of Kuwait. Over the 13 years tiative, receiving the full backing of the United under his reign, Kuwait has witnessed huge devel- States and the European Union. opment concentrated on a number of mega proj- In 2018, His Highness inaugurated a number of ects like Sabah Al-Ahmad Marine City - the first important projects in the country, such as fully-developed by the private sector. His Abdullah Al-Salem Cultural Center and the Highness the Amir made comments urging nation- Kuwait Motor City, Al-Jahra Medical City and the als to stand together in the face of challenges and new passenger terminal 4 at Kuwait International threats, namely the June 2015 terrorist attack on Airport and Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital. In 2019, His Al-Sadeq Mosque, in which 26 people were mar- Highness opened Sheikh Jaber Causeway, which is tyred and resulted in the injury of 200 more. one of the most prominent mega projects in the Shortly after the suicide attack, His Highness the country and the fourth longest sea bridge in the Amir took it upon himself to visit the location in world. In terms of strengthening friendly relations person unannounced, where he uttered the and pushing diplomatic efforts, His Highness renowned paternal words: “Those are my chil- Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad made an official visit to dren.” While leading thousands of Kuwaitis who Iraq in June 2019, which is the first of its kind by a came to attend the mass funerals for the victims, high-ranking Kuwaiti official to Baghdad since His Highness the Amir urged “the Kuwaiti family 1990, during which he launched a new era in the to stand together united through troubles and march of relations at various levels between the strife in tackling violence and fundamentalist rhet- two brotherly countries. KUWAIT: In this file photo, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah swears in before the parliament as oric that aims to undermine the other.” the 15th Amir and ruler of Kuwait. — KUNA On the scale of his foreign policy, Kuwait over ‘Dean of Diplomacy’ recent years had pioneering role in the global From the internal affair to the external affairs, humanitarian field thanks to his wise policies. which His Highness was and still attaches great KUWAIT: Kuwait celebrates today the 14- pendence in 1961, he was appointed member the Kuwaiti cabinet in the place of the then Crown Kuwait hosted three pledging conferences for care to, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad’s diplomacy was year anniversary of the ascendency of His of the Kuwaiti constitution’s founding coun- Prince and Prime Minister the late Amir Sheikh international governments and organizations, co- in the interest of the Gulf and the region as a Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad cil. This was followed by his appointment in Saad Al- Abdullah Al-Sabah. Two years later, His chaired a similar event in London and attended whole, he is the ‘Dean of Diplomacy’ and he has Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as he continues his lead- the first official cabinet, where he assumed Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad became prime another European Union-organized event in the decisive role in resolving disputes and reduce ership of this nation and its people. It all the role of minister of guidance in 1962. Only minister upon Amiri decree. It is during his time as Brussels. The Kuwait-hosted donors conferences tensions in the region, especially keeping the GCC started when His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al- one year later, he began a journey as minis- prime minister that his ability to guide domestic raised a total of $7.5 billion from attending unity. From this standpoint, His Highness at the Ahmad swore in before the parliament as the ter of foreign affairs, where he remained the policy came to light. The prime minister adopted a nations and organizations, while Kuwait handed emergency Gulf summit in May 2019, he called on 15th Amir and ruler of Kuwait amid huge top man responsible for delivering Kuwait’s comprehensive development-based vision out a total $1.6 billion across all five gatherings as his brothers, the GCC leaders, to put an end to the support from the public and local officials. diplomacy to the world for 40 years. focused particularly on economic growth through support for the victims of the Syrian conflict. The dispute and prevail in wisdom and dialogue so Perhaps what came in His Highness the support of the private sector and entrepreneurism endeavors overseen by His Highness the Amir that the GCC countries can achieve the hopes and Amir’s speech to the nation last November, Balanced foreign policy amongst the youth. earned him the unprecedented title of aspirations of their people. His Highness was not that he stressed to his people and his On May 11, 1963, during the first year of ‘Humanitarian Leader’ and Kuwait, the title of only keen on the unity of the Gulf, but also unity nation’s stability, when saying “I call upon Sheikh Sabah’s time in office as minister, Huge development ‘Humanitarian Centre,’ both granted by the United of the Arab countries, as he stressed in his impor- my fellow citizens to be aware of the inter- Kuwait became a member of the United On the economic spectrum, a tour in Asia, Nations. In February 2018, Kuwait also hosted a tant speech before the Arab leaders at the emer- ests of our dear nation, and protection of its Nations. Diplomatically, he was involved in including China, Japan, South Korea and pledging conference dedicated to efforts aimed at gency Arab summit held in Makkah May 31, 2013, security and stability, stand united against Kuwait-hosted talks in 1966 between war- Singapore, at the head of a business delegation in rebuilding cities and towns in Iraq reclaimed from that the Arab nation suffers from difficult situa- whoever tries to undermine national unity, ring parties in Yemen, attended by represen- 2004 resulted in the joint signature of 10 mega the so-called Islamic State group. These efforts tions and a sharp retreat in its security and stabili- and stay away from assemblies that might tatives from Egypt and Saudi Arabia aimed deals and projects. He remained premier until have been commended worldwide and have ty, as he called to dialogue, rather than clash in deviate from their objectives and lead to at putting an end to the Yemeni civil war. 2006 when a cabinet session passed a motion transformed from a unilateral effort to a global ini- regard to the escalation in the region. — KUNA chaos.” When the relationship deteriorated between South and North Yemen, with both involved Decades-long commitment in border clashes, Sheikh Sabah visited the The fourth child of the late Amir Sheikh two countries (at the time) helping forge a Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness peace agreement in 1972. He also success- Sheikh Sabah’s wisdom and intelligence fully mediated an agreement of diplomatic stems from a decades-long commitment to principles between Oman and South Yemen, serving in the social, political and diplomatic which was followed by a joint announcement spheres following extensive travel and tute- of the resumption of diplomatic relations lage at Al-Mubarakiya School; Kuwait’s first from Kuwait in 1984. formal educational establishment named Throughout his tenure, the then minister after the late ruler, Sheikh Mubarak Al- assumed a balanced foreign policy that Sabah. His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al- enabled Kuwait to overcome some difficult Ahmad’s initial foray into public office came periods such as the Iraq-Iran War of 1980 in 1954, when he was appointed member in and its repercussions on the internal and the supreme executive committee tasked external security and stability of his country. with the role of the regulation of government He also forged a strong relationship with interests and bodies. A year later, he was countries around the world, particularly the handed the role of director of the depart- five permanent member nations of the ment of social and labor affairs, where he United Nations Security Council. These was instrumental in several factors, namely strong ties culminated in the emergence of a regulating the relationship between employ- 35-nation coalition that helped liberate er and employee. Upon the expansion of his Kuwait from invasion by Iraq in 1991 as a role to include director of the publications result of a Security Council resolution that department in 1957, His Highness Sheikh paved the way for a military offensive Sabah Al-Ahmad demonstrated a commit- against the occupying forces. ment to reviving old books and manuscripts Alongside his role as foreign minister, His and tasked a committee with writing the first Highness Sheikh Sabah was handed numer- book detailing the history of Kuwait. ous roles due to his wise policies and diplo- Kuwait’s journalism, regarded one of the matic proficiency, namely acting information most transparent in the Middle East, contin- minister (1971-1975), deputy prime minister ues to thrive thanks to His Highness the Amir, (1978), acting information minister (1982), who was behind the publications’ law, which deputy prime minister (1985-1992) and first remains in use today, albeit with some minor deputy prime minister and foreign minister amendments. As Kuwait declared its inde- (1992). In 2001, he was tasked with forming

Crown Prince, state officials congratulate Amir on anniversary

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh received a congratulatory cable from Head Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah of Kuwait National Guard His Highness received a congratulatory cable from His Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah, in which he Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf expressed his gratitude for His Highness Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah yesterday, Sheikh Sabah’s wise leadership and great on the occasion of the 14th anniversary of achievements on all levels. His Highness the His Highness’ assumption of office. In the Amir sent a cable to His Highness Sheikh cable, His Highness Sheikh Nawaf praised Salem Al-Ali, thanking him for his kind the prominent achievements of His feelings. His Highness the Amir also prayed Highness the Amir at all levels. His to God to protect Kuwait’s peace and Highness the Crown Prince also wished His security and wished His Highness Sheikh Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah a long Salem a long healthy life. Deputy Chief of healthy life and more development for the National Guard Sheikh Meshaal Al- Kuwait, under his wise leadership. Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah also sent a cable Meanwhile, His Highness the Amir sent a to His Highness the Amir, in which he noted cable to His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al- that the anniversary is a joyful national Ahmad, thanking him for his kind feelings occasion. He expressed his deepest admi- and praise of His Highness Sheikh Sabah’s ration of His Highness’ wise leadership, achievements. His Highness the Amir also leading Kuwait into a bright future. wished His Highness Sheikh Nawaf a long Moreover, he wished His Highness Sheikh healthy life and further development for Sabah a long healthy life and further devel- Kuwait and its people. opment for Kuwait on all levels. His His Highness the Amir also received a Highness the Amir sent a cable to Sheikh congratulatory cable from National Meshaal Al-Ahmad, thanking him all mem- Assembly Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanem, in bers of the National Guard for their kind which he hailed His Highness’ great feelings. His Highness the Amir also prayed achievements in the humanitarian field, as to God to protect Kuwait’s peace and well as his efforts to protect international security and wished everyone a long peace and security. He also underlined healthy life. Kuwait’s political, economic and social His Highness the Amir received similar developments under the wise leadership of cables as well from His Highness Sheikh His Highness Sheikh Sabah, as his efforts Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber were deeply admired by the Arab World Al-Sabah, His Highness Sheikh Jaber Al- and the international community. Ghanem Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and His wished His Highness a long healthy life and Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah more development for Kuwait. His Highness Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, in which the Amir sent a cable to Speaker Ghanem, they praised the great achievements thanking him and the MPs for their kind Kuwait saw under the wise leadership of feelings. His Highness Sheikh Sabah noted His Highness Sheikh Sabah, and wished His that the development in different sectors in Highness a long healthy life and further Kuwait is due to the hard work and deter- development for Kuwait on all levels. In mination of Kuwaiti people to achieve suc- return, His Highness the Amir sent cables cess on all levels. thanking them for their kind feelings and In the meantime, His Highness the Amir wishing them a long healthy life. — KUNA 4 Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Local Plan to lay off 25,000 expats, replace them with citizens: MP Kuwaitis seeking private sector jobs up 8% in 2019

By A Saleh Most government plans in this regard had failed to encour- percent with university age citizens to leave the generally more rewarding and less degrees, were awaiting KUWAIT: Chairman of the parliamentary manpower com- demanding public sector job in favor of the commonly high employment in the private No coronavirus mittee MP Khalil Al-Saleh said the committee discussed demanding, less rewarding job in private companies. sector in 2019 compared to various proposals to be included in a single report on Expatriate make up more than 90 percent of the private 15,600 in 2018, said employing children of Kuwaiti women. “There is a plan to informed sources, noting cases registered set a timeline to prioritize appointing Kuwaiti women’s that the total number of citi- children in various state bodies,” Saleh added, noting that zens seeking private sector in Kuwait: Health their employment procedures and privileges will be set by employment had increased each body. 1,500 jobs by 8 percent in 2019. Saleh noted that the committee had been notified of the In other news, Minister of Minister availability of 1,500 job vacancies for Kuwaitis in the bank- available for Education Saud Al-Harbi ing sector. “We are in real trouble in view of the increasing issued a ministerial decision KUWAIT: Minister of number of unemployed graduates and the lack of clear Kuwaitis authorizing assistant under- Health Sheikh Dr Basel policies to enroll them in the labor market,” he warned, not- MP Khalil Al-Saleh secretary for public educa- Al-Sabah affirmed that ing that the total number of citizens registered at the Civil tion Osama Al-Sultan to be Kuwait is free from the Service Commission (CSC) awaiting employment had the ministry’s acting under- new strain of coron- dropped to 6,000. Furthermore, Saleh spoke about a plan secretary. Harbi also endorsed the results of the interviews avirus. In statements to to lay off 25,000 expats and replace them with citizens, conducted to select an administrative and technical affairs the press on Monday, without providing any more details. In addition, Saleh sector’s workforce - a figure lawmakers usually blame for manager for Ahmadi educational zone and the appoint- the minister pointed stressed that there are no Kuwaiti nurses because the country’s demographic imbalance and often demand ment of Ameen Mohammed Fahd Tumeiheer in the posi- out that no single case Shadadiya university does not have a nursing faculty. reducing in order to rectify the said imbalance while at the tion. Meanwhile, high-ranking educational sources said of infection has been Lawmakers have been pushing the government in same time create more jobs for Kuwaiti jobseekers. Harbi will continue reshuffling the ministry’s top officials detected or reported recent years to create more jobs for national manpower in Meanwhile, national labor statistics issued by the with the aim of injecting fresh blood and exchanging across the country so the private sector, which relies heavily on expatriate labor. manpower authority showed 14,697 citizens, including 55 expertise. far. He advised people to seek credible infor- mation in this regard Minister of Health Sheikh from the ministry’s offi- Dr Basel Al-Sabah Kuwait aviation cial sources. Sheikh Basel has stated that the ministry, upon instructions regulator seals deal from His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and in coordination with UAE counterpart with the World Health Organization, had put into effect the international plan of action to prevent and control the spread of the deadly virus. DUBAI: The civil aviation authorities of Kuwait and the UAE Meanwhile, the ministry’s Spokesman Dr yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) Abdullah Al-Sanad said that as a precautionary dealing with maintenance safety, part of efforts to strengthen measure, relevant bodies in the state have recently bilateral cooperation. Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem Al- refused to allow some people to enter the coun- Humoud Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s Directorate General of Civil try. This measure is applied worldwide to control Aviation’s chief, signed the MoU on behalf of Kuwait, along- and prevent the spread of such kind of diseases, side his counterpart in the UAE Seif Al-Suwiaidi, amid an he pointed out. In time of epidemic, countries international aviation investment summit in Dubai. The deal reduce reception of people coming from infected aims to boost aviation safety in both countries, the Kuwaiti areas to its minimum limit, only allowing those official said, focusing on more efficiency and expedition in with official capacity and after conducting neces- maintenance procedures. The deal will prove equally benefi- sary examinations to avoid the transmission of the cial for both countries, allowing aviation officials a platform disease, he argued. for knowledge exchange over aircraft maintenance, accord- On Thursday, Sanad affirmed that the Ministry of ing to UAE Minister of Economy Sultan Al- Mansoori. He Health, in coordination with other state bodies, has described the deal as a ‘launchpad’ for greater cooperation DUBAI: Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem Al-Humoud Al-Sabah (left) and his UAE counterpart Seif Al-Suwiaidi taken all preventive and precautionary measures to in the aviation sector, one that would help propel this crucial sign the agreement. — KUNA confront the virus. He assured that all sectors of the industry to greater heights. — KUNA ministry are ready to deal with any relevant emer- gency. Sanad clarified that the entire health sector has been equipped with all necessary equipment and devices to confront and stop the spread of the deadly virus. The ministry has also issued instruc- Kuwait bans tions to doctors and health practitioners about how to deal with suspected infected cases, he said. He added that the ministry is also coordinating with poultry products relevant international and regional organizations in from 6 countries this regard. — KUNA

By Meshaal Al-Enezi

KUWAIT: Secretary general of the supreme food safety com- News in brief mittee at the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition Adel Al- Suwait said that the committee’s first meeting in 2020 came Green light for Discovery up with a number of recommendations to achieve food safety. The committee’s recommendations include banning the Mall businesses import of all fresh, chilled, frozen and manufactured poultry products and eggs, except those treated at 70 degrees centi- grade, from India, , , Slovakia, Romania and the KUWAIT: The Amiri Diwan responded positively to because of the spread of bird flu there. The demands of small business owners in Discovery recommendations also include banning the import of all fresh, Mall and told them their stores will not be closed as chilled, frozen and manufactured ruminant products, except planned by the end of this month to start the third those treated at 70 degrees centigrade, from Libya because phase of Shaheed Park. People at the mall were of the spread of Rift Valley fever disease. happy, and several young investors described the speedy response of Amir Diwan officials as an Family care action by a loving father who moves to contain a Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Ghadeer Aseeri problem his sons face, and this is something they announced concluding maintenance works at the Hawally are accustomed to in Kuwait. They said the diwan’s family care hostel, adding that tenants will be soon moved in financial and administrative director Abdelaziz after furnishing it according to international standards. Aseeri added that the ministry is keen on providing welfare and Ishaq told them they will be given enough time to services to children hosted at those care houses throughout continue with their activity at the mall and promised their life stages including meals, clothes, modern vehicles for to find a way that allows them to continue operating transport, education, scholarships and follow-up of students while the park is being developed. — Al-Qabas inside and outside Kuwait.

Emergency plans Visas denied Kuwait Municipality’s Public Relations Department strongly hailed the success achieved by the national project KUWAIT: Informed diplomatic sources said many ‘Jahez1’ (Ready1) through coordination amongst various state Kuwaitis have been denied Schengen visas, espe- bodies and sectors to qualify and train national manpower on cially those wanting to go to , based on pre- running and operating government bodies’ strategic reserves vious visits to the country in which they used during emergencies, which was executed for the first time in tourist visas and received medical treatment in hos- 2019. In this regard, head of the Capital emergency team and pitals without paying for it. Sources said French coordinator between the municipality and the civil defense hospitals wrote to the Kuwait health office in Zaid Al-Enezi said that Jahez2, the second phase of the proj- France, but it denied that those patients were sent ect, was launched recently. Enezi explained that 120 male and by the government for treatment, so the office can- female volunteers will be trained to take the total number of not pay their bills. In the meantime, European Union volunteers in the civil defense committee to 400 by the end of countries will start implementation of the decision 2020. He added that the second phase of the project is being increasing fees for the Schengen visa by 33 percent held in the period of Jan 5 to 30, 2020 and that the aim of the project is to national well-trained volunteers to oper- from Feb 3 from €60 to €80. New measures will ate various facilities in times of distress and crises. allow visa applications for up to six months up to 15 days before the trip, to make sure member coun- tries cover the cost in a better way. For children aged 6 to 12 years, the fees will be increased from Kuwait, Saudi eye €35 to €40, while those under six will be given visas for free. — Al-Rai closer cooperation Minor’s assault KUWAIT: Kuwaiti Army Chief of Staff Lt Gen Mohammad Al-Khodhr and head of the Saudi national guard’s training KUWAIT: Police arrested a youth red-handed in and education authority Maj Gen Nayef Al Saud and his the room of a minor girl after he had raped her. He accompanying delegation discussed mutual cooperation on told police he enters her room frequently. He will Monday. During the meeting, the two sides also dealt with the be sent to the prosecution charged with uncon- key topics of common concern, mainly the military field, the sented indecent assault. The victim’s father sensed Kuwaiti Defense Ministry’s Directorate of Moral Guidance strange movements in his daughter’s room, and and Public Relations said in a press statement. They further when he realized what was happening, he called discussed means of developing cooperation between the two the police, who arrested the youth inside the sisterly countries, it added. In addition, Deputy Chief of Staff minor’s room. The girl told police that the man had Lt Gen Khaled Al-Sabah and the Saudi official and his dele- sex with her against her will, like in previous gation focused on bilateral cooperation at the command of instances. — By Hanan Al-Saadoun the Kuwaiti ground forces, it noted. — KUNA 5 Local Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Cabinet members briefed on anticorruption measures after Kuwait’s int’l ranking drop Ministers discuss measures taken to digitize government services

KUWAIT: Two senior government officials made a mended the strenuous and serious efforts made by the visual presentation to Cabinet ministers on the cir- working team, stressing the necessity of cooperation cumstances of the decline in Kuwait’s ranking in the amongst all government bodies in order to achieve the Corruption Perceptions Index. The presentation, purposeful positive results. It referred the recommen- delivered by Minister of Justice and Minister of dations to the public service committee. Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Fahad Al-Afasi and Chairman of the Public Anti-Corruption Authority Coronavirus spread (Nazaha) Counselor Abdulrahman Al-Nemash, also The Cabinet followed up the news pertaining to included a detailed explanation of the reasons behind the coronavirus spread inside and outside China. the decline as well as the rules on which the Within the framework of the government’s keenness Transparency International is based in terms of to take the preventive and precautionary measures to Kuwait’s ranking in this index. During the Cabinet’s prevent the virus from moving to Kuwait, the council weekly meeting chaired by His Highness the Prime listened to a presentation by Undersecretary of Minister Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Health Ministry Moustaf Redha on the measures tak- the ministers reviewed the en by the ministry, in collab- recommendations by oration with the World Nazaha aiming to promote Health Organization and all Kuwait’s ranking. Of the international organizations most outstanding recom- Govt follows up as well as local bodies, to mendations are the acceler- deal with such epidemics. ation of enacting relevant on coronavirus He confirmed that no coron- legislations, achieving avirus case was registered KUWAIT: His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah chairs the Cabinet’s week- national strategies as soon spread in Kuwait, pointing to the ly meeting. — KUNA as possible and activating readiness of clinics and the reform measures and proce- separating rooms at Kuwait Highness the Amir. It was informed about the bills on Meanwhile, the ministers were briefed by Deputy dures. The Council of International Airport. The linking budgets of independent-budget institutions Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Ahmad Ministers expressed its appreciation to efforts made Cabinet stressed taking all necessary practical meas- for the FY 2020-2021. It discussed National Mansour Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah on the results of Iraqi by Nazaha, and decided to refer the recommenda- ures and procedures by the concerned bodies to Assembly affairs and was briefed on questions and Defense Minister Hassan Al-Shammary’s recent visit tions to the legal affairs committee. combat any possible spread of the virus. proposals of MPs in this regard. to Kuwait as well as the talks pertaining to means of Meanwhile, and within the framework of the The council also was briefed on a presentation by promoting ties and cooperation between the two sis- Council of Ministers’ follow-up to carry out the gov- Minister of Information and Minister of State for National days terly countries in all domains, Saleh added. The ernment’s work program and the main axes, Deputy Youth Affairs Mohammad Al-Jabri, and Information At the onset of the meeting held at Seif Palace on Cabinet also discussed the political affairs in light of Prime Minister, Interior Minister and Minister of State Ministry Undersecretary and Kuwait’s representative Monday, the Cabinet expressed sincere congratula- the reports regarding all ongoing developments in the for Cabinet Affairs Anas Al-Saleh and senior officials at 2020 Dubai Expo Munira Solaiman pertaining the tions to His Highness the Amir, His Highness the political area on both international and Arab levels. It of the Central Agency for Information Technology ongoing preparations to take part in the expo. The Crown Prince and the Kuwaiti people on the coun- congratulated Lebanese Prime Minister Hassan Diab (CAIT) made a presentation on what has been taken in opening of Kuwait’s pavilion and the reception of vis- try’s national days. His Highness the Amir Sheikh on the new government formation, wishing progress digitizing government services, as well as plans and itors will start on October 20, 2020. Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah raised the coun- and prosperity to Lebanon, and good relations steps necessary to implement the digital transforma- Furthermore, the Cabinet studied the economic try’s flag at Bayan Palace yesterday marking the between the two countries. The council expressed its tion (DT) of government services aiming to achieve affairs committee’s recommendation regarding the beginning of the national celebrations on the 59th condolences to Turkish President Recep Tayyip several goals, including promoting transparency and report of following up the 2019-2020 plan of the first anniversary of the Independence Day, the 29th Erdogan over the victims of the recent quake that hit fighting corruption through the optimal use of the half as well as the challenges facing the projects and anniversary of the Liberation Day and the 14th eastern part of the country. The earthquake left sev- data, modern technology, facilitating services of citi- the percentage of their implementation. The council anniversary of the assumption of the post of His eral people dead and wounded, and caused harm to zens and others. Challenges facing the digital transfor- reviewed the recommendations mentioned in the Highness the Amir and His Highness the Crown Prince. properties and public utilities. The council congratu- mation in Kuwait as well as the recommendations committee’s report pertaining linking budgets of the The Cabinet prayed to Allah the Almighty to maintain lated Ekaterini Sakellaropoulou on being elected as regarding accelerating setting a national strategy on subsidiary bodies for FY 2020-2021, and decided to security, safety and welfare to the dear homeland, its Greece’s President, wishing further progress and the DT were reviewed, Saleh said. The Cabinet com- approve the draft resolutions and referred them to His people as well as the expatriates, Saleh said. prosperity to Greece and its people. — KUNA International WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29, 2020 White House, wrapping up Trump defense, Thai police under scrutiny; record number of trafficking cases dismissed seeks a swift acquittal Page 9 Page 8

TARKWA BAY: A naval personnel walk past jerrycans abandoned by vandals stealing from oil pipelines belonging to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) close to Tarkwa Bay. — AFP Jihadists target Northern Nigeria road Terror as militants disguise as soldiers, set up checkpoints MAIDUGURI: The bus driver sensed straight away that he Upsurge in attacks and his six passengers were in trouble when the gunmen, International aid agencies have sounded the alarm dressed in Nigerian army uniforms, stopped their vehicle about the rising threat on the roads which is making tack- at a checkpoint. They were on the main road connecting ling the vast humanitarian crisis in the region even harder. the city of Maiduguri in volatile northeast Nigeria with the The UN says recent weeks have seen an upsurge in vio- rest of the country. For weeks there had been reports of lent attacks across northeast Nigeria and “an increasing jihadists disguised as soldiers abducting travelers. Now his trend of illegal checkpoints on major supply and commer- own luck had run out. “They took us at gunpoint into the bush,” the driver told AFP, asking that his name not be used for his own safety. “I spent four days in detention. I have never in my Gunmen life felt the fear and trauma that I passed through in those four days.” The kidnapping around two weeks ago was kill 13 in part of a wave of identical attacks targeting the key Damaturu road-the main lifeline linking Maiduguri and its central roughly two million people to the outside world. Since early December jihadists disguised as soldiers Nigeria have been setting up checkpoints to snare and abduct unsuspecting passengers. They appear to focus on Christians, aid workers and military personnel. Some of those seized were executed on the spot. Others were taken cial routes”. The terror on the roads has shaken residents as captives. In late December the jihadists released a grue- of Maiduguri, a place that has already lived through 10 some video showing them shooting and slitting the throats years of brutal insurgency. of 11 abducted Christians. The conflict has killed over 36,000 and seen hundreds of thousands of displaced people flood into the city. The MAIDUGURI: This screen grab image taken from a video shows Boko Haram fighters during an attack on a mili- ‘Shot at any moment’ army has told those using the road not to stop at unofficial tary checkpoint in Molai village on the outskirts of the northeast Nigerian city of Maiduguri. — AFP The bus driver and his passengers were kept in cells in checkpoints and insists it has already re-established con- a camp ringed with iron railings. “The psychological tor- trol of the main route. But traffic on the road to Damaturu ture was indescribable. I was living by the minute because has dropped off dramatically and drivers wait for other area known for ethnic clashes. A local resident said the ing the attack. State governor Simon Lalong said his I felt I would be taken and shot at any moment,” he said. A vehicles so they can form convoys to travel. assailants opened fire late Sunday on a bar where people “heart again bleeds” for the victims of the latest killings “judge” would come to hear the cases of those being held Those who make the journey admit they are taking their were drinking beer in the village of Kwatas, 80 kilometers as he called on the security forces to find those responsi- and deliver a verdict within minutes. When he ordered a lives in their hands. As she boarded a bus to leave, Hauwa south of the city of Jos. ble. “We do not need another circle of bloodshed,” he hostage be dressed in an orange jumpsuit it meant they Musa told AFP that relatives had warned her off travelling “Thirteen persons lost their lives while five persons were said in a statement. were sentenced to die. After a few days it was the turn on the road. “But I told them whatever happens to me, it is critically injured and are receiving treatment,” regional Aid group Mercy Corps said in May last year that vio- of the driver to be heard. He was asked what crime he destined by God,” she said. Another passenger, police spokesman Ubah Agaba said. The reasons for the lence between farmers and pastoralists in Nigeria had had committed but said he did not know; he had just Mohammed Adam, insisted he had no choice but to make attack were not immediately clear. Central Plateau state is “contributed to more than 7,000 deaths in the past five been driving along the road when he was stopped. the trip for work. “We have to go as we are struggling to part of Nigeria’s so-called middle-belt that divides the main- years”. Attacks in remote areas often go unreported but This time the judge chose leniency. The driver-a feed ourselves and our families,” he said. ly-Muslim north from the predominantly Christian south. the authorities in Plateau state insist the bloodshed has Muslim-was ordered released, handed back the keys Deadly clashes between nomadic Fulani herders and decreased following reconciliation efforts between the to his vehicle and escorted away. “I don’t know what Gunmen kill 13 farmers over land, grazing and water have plagued the communities. Gunmen on January 8 killed 12 people in a befell my six passengers. I left them awaiting judg- Meanwhile, unknown gunmen have killed 13 people in area for years. Local resident Usman Hardo said that village some 25 kilometers away from the scene of the lat- ment at the camp,” he said. an attack in central Nigeria, the police said Monday, in an some hamlets where Fulani live were burnt down follow- est incident. — Agencies

and to do away with his predecessor’s goals of close ber states with the most trade with Britain want to Brexit new chapter: ties with Europe and minimal disruption to the cross- ensure that British companies gain no unfair advan- Channel economy. Theresa May’s government had tage after Brexit. When British goods and services More sleep could proposed a “dynamic alignment”, where London come knocking on Europe’s door, they will insist that The ‘impossible’ would find a way to match EU rules on the environ- UK goods are subject to checks like those from any ment, state aid and other standards to guarantee UK other non-EU country. “Zero tariffs, zero quotas, improve behavior, trade deal companies easy access to Europe. Johnson has zero dumping,” Barnier said. Diplomats warn there pledged to instead pursue a far more minimal trade were not many ways to enforce the level playing UK bankers told deal that will seek zero tariffs and quotas on goods, field in a simple trade deal, except through threaten- BRUSSELS: With just days to go before Brexit, but make no binding commitment on standards. “The ing tariffs that can take months or even years to European diplomats are already hard at work for the prime minister has been clear that he wants a - impose. The EU 27 have begun to draw up an elabo- LONDON: With little progress to report in efforts to improve next phase: negotiations to hammer out a future with style free trade agreement with no alignment,” a UK rate arbitration process that could mean fines and professional conduct at Britain’s banks, the body charged with Britain after its EU divorce. In the words of EU nego- official told AFP. suspension of any EU-UK accord if either side fell raising standards has suggested that getting a better night’s sleep tiator Michel Barnier, during the next phase of Brexit, This refers to the EU’s trade deal with Canada that out of line. might help bankers behave better. The banking industry was Brussels and London will “have to rebuild everything”. Europeans consider ambitious as a trade deal, but too asked by parliament to set up the Banking Standards Board in narrow for an important neighbor like Britain. “This is Prime Minister Boris Johnson seems reinvigorated ‘Negotiation tables’ 2016 to improve behavior after the financial crisis and a subse- probably not the best time for them to make that deci- after a clear electoral victory in December, but intense Months of intense discussions, to alternate quent interest rate rigging scandal. sion,” warned Ian Bremmer, president at Eurasia Group. talks lie ahead. Here are the main battle lines for the between London and Brussels, will be coordinated The BSB said that its fourth annual survey of efforts to improve coming weeks: “The UK does not have the size, does not have the culture and raise standards of behavior at banks showed little technology does not have the competitiveness, does not by Barnier and his UK counterpart, probably David Frost. The tight deadline allows “about 40 days of change in 2019 after a jump in 2017. Given the efforts many finan- No extension have the diplomacy to really choose their future.” pure negotiation” in eight to ten-week sessions, an cial firms have been taking, that outcome was a “surprise and dis- Throughout his campaign, Johnson said he would appointment”, the BSB said. Results at big banks flatlined in 2019 seal a trade deal by December 31, the deadline set by Threat to unity official warned. This is a far cry from the years devoted to trade deals with Canada, Japan or South as they did in 2018, after earlier improvements, while scores for the EU-UK divorce agreement. London could request A tariffs-only trade deal would be a blow to Britain smaller firms had declined over the past few years, the BSB said. and a challenge to the UK’s closest trading partners - Korea. Barnier said negotiators would open about an extension of one or two more years if it decided to A quarter of employees surveyed said working at their firm such as Ireland, France, and the . ten “negotiating tables” in parallel. “We will give do so before summer, but Johnson insists it will not. had a negative effect on their health and wellbeing, little changed This marked the EU’s first reality check - only reluc- No alignment on EU standards means custom checks, each subject two or three weeks and see what is since the survey began in 2016. In a sector known for early starts tantly accepted - and Brussels officials no longer paperwork and all sorts of new limits to trade. “Our possible. If the divisions are too great, we move on,” expect Johnson to ask for a delay. That leaves only first choice is that nothing changes,” lamented a diplo- a diplomat said. and late nights entertaining clients, nearly 40% of respondents eight months, from late February to October, to reach mat. “But that is not going to happen, so we must now said they slept for six hours or fewer each night, with almost 30% an agreement and allow time for ratification. “It’s an be realistic.” Many in Brussels fear that Johnson’s low- Big deal? saying they felt tired at work every or almost every day. impossible task,” warned one European diplomat. “By bar strategy could be the biggest challenge to One question nagging Europeans, notably “Given the importance of sufficient sleep not only for physical the end of the year, we could get the skeleton of a European unity since the Brexit referendum in 2016. France, is the future structure of the EU’s relation- and mental healthy, but also for the ability to exercise professional trade agreement plus something on internal and for- Member states will be pulling in different directions ship with Britain. Will it be something formal, with and ethical judgment, this may be something that the industry eign security, but there is no guarantee,” the diplomat with some - like France, Belgium and - con- clearly set joint institutions, or a looser arrange- wishes to explore further,” the BSB said. One major British finan- added. Talks can begin as soon as EU ministers agree cerned about fishing access while eastern Europeans ment structured by separate deals on trade, securi- cial institution, the London Stock Exchange, is consulting on their joint mandate on February 25. and will want a deal on cars. ty and other topics as necessary? Many European whether to shorten trading hours to make it more family friendly capitals abhor the latter, spooked by the EU’s con- for employees. The BSB survey covered 81,664 employees at 29 Johnson is not May ‘Zero-dumping’ fused ties with , which are governed by banks and building societies. — Reuters Johnson’s campaign promised “to get Brexit done” Referred to as keeping a level playing field, mem- over 100 deals. — AFP Established 1961 7 International Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Tension heats up between church and villagers amid land ownership debate Construction site triggers a dispute between Muslim villagers and Church

MOKHE: On a snow-covered plateau Monitoring Center (EMC), Beridze and collect the information,” said Yuliya respect everyone who believes in God ... in southern Georgia, a wooden cross four other farmers took the case to a Panfil, property rights director at New but one can easily understand that you marks the construction site of a district court in the southern city of America, a U.S.-based think tank. do not need eight hectares of land to Libyan govt shoots monastery that has triggered a bitter Akhaltsikhe in a bid to get the land “If the information isn’t in the reg- build a church,” said 30-year-old Zaza land dispute between local Muslim vil- back. They say local families collectively istry, then no bells and whistles will sud- Shavadze. lagers and the Christian Orthodox worked that land throughout the com- denly make it appear,” she said in But Archimandrite Nikoloz noted the down ‘UAE drone’ Church. The quarrel revolves around munist era and were each assigned a emailed comments. As of today, only an Church needs the plot to produce hon- property registration issues that have portion of it as Georgia moved to a pri- estimated 25% of all land in Georgia has ey, cheese and vegetables to feed its haunted the Caucasian nation since the vate property system in the 1990s. been digitally registered, Zakarashvili monks. He dismissed the farmers’ claims TRIPOLI: Libya’s unity government said yester- collapse of the Soviet Union, despite the When asked for proof, Beridze pro- said. While registering titles is not that the plan would threaten their liveli- day it had shot down an Emirati-supplied drone 2016 launch of a heralded new duced a partially handwritten document mandatory, not doing carries risk, as hoods as “lies”, saying locals had access operated by forces led by eastern commander blockchain-based land-titling system. bearing an official stamp from a land owners are invisible to officials who to other fields and pastures. “They have Khalifa Haftar near Misrata in western Libya. The The disputed land, seven hectares of reform commission and containing a tend to check only the digital database so much hay, that it’s getting rotten,” he Tripoli-based Government of National Accord an eight-hectare plot surrounded by general description of his family’s plot when the government decides to give said. NAPR did not respond to several said its “anti-aircraft defences” had shot down the forest, lies in a mountainous area in the as well as a list of its neighbors. Similar some land to investors or other entities, requests for comment. According to the drone east of Misrata, Libya’s third largest city. Adigeni municipality, near the Turkish documents are common across the she added. agency’s website, since 2016 more than That came days after the United Nations border. Families from nearby villages, country and have become a familiar 40,000 land parcels have been regis- slammed “continued blatant violations” of a 2011 who belong to the Muslim minority in source of tension and confusion, said Hay vs Honey tered as part of a pilot initiative to arms embargo, despite world leaders committing an overwhelmingly Christian country, Teona Zakarashvili, a lawyer at corrup- For years, registering the disputed lot increase registrations. in mid-January to upholding the blockade. The say they have owned and used the lot tion watchdog Transparency in Adigeni seemed an unnecessary In December 2019, the Akhaltsikhe GNA yesterday posted images on Facebook for decades to grow hay and graze cat- International. expense to the farmers using it. “We court ruled against the farmers, saying showing what appeared to be a Chinese-made tle - their main source of income. “We When Georgia modernized its paper knew what land belonged to each per- they could not prove that the lot Wing Loong drone. Experts say Haftar has pro- have no land other than this, so if (the archives, launching an electronic land son and we never had any dispute described in their titles was the same cured a number of the aircraft from his main church) takes it away, we will have database in the mid-2000s, the onus of among ourselves,” said Beridze. That land that was assigned to the Church, backer, the United Arab Emirates. nothing left,” said David Beridze, 33, as registering titles was left to property changed in September 2018 when said Agapishvili, the lawyer. The farmers, Haftar, who controls much of eastern and he walked on the snow-covered plot owners, she said. But this has proven priests accompanied by construction who kept using the land up to ruling, are southern Libya, launched an offensive in April to with a group of farmers. difficult and expensive for the many workers showed up and started delimit- now appealing. Zakarashvili, the lawyer seize the capital Tripoli, in the country’s north- Yet, according to the government the people who hold vaguely-worded ing the perimeter with iron poles, he at Transparency International, said the west, from the GNA. His advance stalled on the land belonged to no one before 2018, papers and who, on top of registration said. The locals turned to the National organization deals with about 40 such edge of the capital, but in early January he cap- when it was registered as state property fees, might have to pay for a lawyer and Agency of Public Registry of Georgia cases every year. These types of dis- tured the strategic coastal city of Sirte. On and donated to the Georgian Orthodox an expert survey to accurately demar- (NAPR) with their papers, only to find putes will remain common, she added, Sunday his forces clashed with those of the GNA Patriarchate, which wants to build a new cate property boundaries, she said. that the lot had already been recorded until the government carries out a in the Abu Grein region, on the road west from monastery there, near the remains of a “Regular farmers can hardly afford as Church property - so they took the nationwide land survey to define exactly Sirte towards Misrata, the hometown of many of small 10th-century church. “We have this,” said Zakarashvili in an interview at government to court, said EMC lawyer who owns what and where. the forces backing the GNA. The advanced UAE- just taken back what was historically the NGO’s offices in Tbilisi. Meri Agapishvili. “Even if they didn’t That would benefit investments, eas- supplied drones have given Haftar an advantage ours,” said Archimandrite Nikoloz In 2016 Georgia moved to a register the land it doesn’t mean they ing fears businesses might have of poten- in the skies. Getsadze, the priest in charge of con- blockchain-based system, becoming one waived their right to it,” she said. tial property rights disputes, and help Turkey has supplied the GNA with Bayraktar struction works. “They (Muslims) have of the first countries to use the technol- A spokeswoman for Georgia’s econo- locals get more from their land by allow- drones, but they have proven less sophisticated been using the monastery land for so ogy - which underpins digital currencies my ministry said it donated the land to ing them to safely sell or mortgage it, she and prone to being shot down by Haftar’s forces. many years and haven’t even expressed like bitcoin - for land registration. The the church following a request from the said. “We understand that the history of On Sunday, Germany’s foreign ministry echoed their gratitude,” he told the Thomson innovation made transactions transpar- Georgian Patriarchate, adding that an the Soviet Union and the administrative UN concerns over arms flowing to Libya, citing Reuters Foundation, as he sat sipping ent and immutable, allaying fears that onsite investigation found “no physical relics we inherited are not the best start “a series of unconfirmed but credible reports of tea in the living room of a clergy house titles could be lost, damaged or tam- entity” was using any of it at the time. to defining property rights,” said embargo violations on both sides”. That comes in the nearby village of Mokhe. pered with, but did little to help people Locals said that although no Christian Zakarashvili. “But there has been ample despite a January 12 ceasefire announced by register their land, according to land family lives in the area, they are happy time for the state to realize that the cur- Haftar backer Moscow and pro-GNA Ankara. From paper to digital rights experts. “A blockchain registry to leave one hectare for the Church to rent approach is not working and some- Each side has repeatedly accused the other of Last year, with help from the Tbilisi- can make it easier to search, update, and build its monastery, as long as they thing else should be done to systemise violations. — AFP based Human Rights Education and visualise records, but it can’t go out and could keep farming the rest. “We land ownership,” she added. — Reuters 8 Wednesday, January 29, 2020 International White House, wrapping up Trump defense, seeks a swift acquittal Bolton revelations roil impeachment trial, witness push grows

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump’s lawyers Democratic-controlled House of Representatives for abuse were to wrap up their defense at his Senate impeachment of power and obstruction of Congress. trial yesterday, but their hopes for a swift acquittal may be in jeopardy amid calls for more witnesses. Democrats want 16 hours of questions former national security advisor John Bolton to testify Trump’s lawyers were to conclude their defense of the about Trump’s dealings with Ukraine and there are grow- president before the 100 members of the Senate beginning ing indications that enough Republican senators may sup- at 1:00 pm. Once they wrap up, senators will have 16 hours port the demand. to pose questions to White House lawyers and the seven “I think it’s increasingly likely that other Republicans members of the House who have served as prosecutors at will join those of us who think we should hear from John just the third impeachment trial of a president in US histo- Bolton,” said Utah Senator Mitt Romney, one of the few ry. The questions will be submitted in writing to US Republicans who has dared to publicly criticize Trump and Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, who is presid- risk his Twitter ire in the past. Calling Bolton, and poten- ing over the trial and will read them aloud. tially other witnesses, to testify could prolong the historic After that, the Senate is expected to debate whether trial and torpedo efforts by the White House and witnesses should be subpoenaed. Democrats will make the Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to case that Bolton should appear while Republicans may bring the proceedings to a close by the end of this week. demand the testimony of Hunter Biden or perhaps even Trump is to deliver the nationally televised “State of the that of his father, the former vice president who is seeking Union” speech to a joint session of Congress on Feb 4 and to challenge Trump in November’s presidential election. the White House clearly wants to have moved past Four Republicans would need to join Democrats in the impeachment by then. Democratic Senate Minority Leader Senate, where Republicans hold a 53-47 edge, to allow Chuck Schumer accused the White House and McConnell testimony from Bolton and others. While just 51 senators yesterday of seeking a “very short and incredibly rushed are required to allow trial witnesses, 67 senators - a two- trial”. “Because the longer it goes on, the more likely that thirds majority - are needed to remove Trump from office new evidence and more new evidence will come out that and despite some cracks in the Republican ranks he does further implicates the president,” Schumer said. not appear in any serious danger at the moment. Bolton is looming large over the trial after The New York Times reported that an upcoming book by the 71- Power grab year-old foreign policy hawk contains revelations that Trump’s lawyers launched a concerted attack on the WASHINGTON: Rep Lee Zelden, R-NY speaks to the press at the US Capitol in Washington, DC. White House could harm Trump’s defense. According to the Times, Bidens on Monday, arguing that the president’s demand lawyers resumed their defense of President Donald Trump at his Senate impeachment trial Monday as explo- Bolton says in the book that Trump told him in August that that they be investigated was motivated by concerns about sive revelations from former national security advisor John Bolton increased pressure on Republicans to call he wanted to freeze military aid to Ukraine until Kiev corruption not personal political gain. The White House him as a witness. — AFP opens an investigation into political rival Joe Biden and his also rolled out two high-profile lawyers to defend the son Hunter, who served on the board of the Ukrainian gas president - Clinton impeachment investigator Ken Starr company Burisma. The accusation that the funds were and Harvard constitutional expert Alan Dershowitz. Jeffrey Epstein to name just two - argued that the House neutralize the Bolton developments. “Nothing in the Bolton withheld for Trump’s own political purposes was at the Dershowitz, who has made a career defending unpopu- case against the president was “unconstitutional” and revelations, even if true, would rise to the level of abuse of heart of his December 18 impeachment by the lar positions and controversial clients - O J Simpson and amounted to a congressional power grab. He also sought to power or impeachable offense,” Dershowitz said. — AFP

and the city’s teeming population to expand their opera- problem they set out to resolve,” he said of commercial Crowded Lagos to tions. The ban cites a 2018 law to bar okadas and small motorcycle companies. Max.ng, which also operates in three-wheeled vehicles known as kekes from Feb 1. It Kano, Ibadan and Akure in Nigeria, had an investment would bar them from 40 bridges and flyovers and areas round last year that raised more than $5 million. Startup Catalan separatist ban motorbikes covering the business districts of Victoria Island and Gokada also raised $5 million last year for its Lagos oper- Lagos Island, Apapa, where the primary port is located ations. Founder Fahim Saleh said that while their bikes are hopes Brexit brings LAGOS: Nigeria’s business capital Lagos will ban com- and Ikeja, which is home to the international airport. also above 200cc, he was not sure about the impact of the mercial motorcycles from many areas of the city, citing Chinedu Azodoh, cofounder of Max.ng, is hopeful that ban on them. overcrowding and safety, authorities said on Monday, a the ban would not apply to them since their bikes are “It’s disappointing,” he said, adding they would seek to ‘immunity’ move that could change the commute for thousands and above the 200 cubic centimeter engine size banned expand its operations in courier and logistics services. threaten ride-hailing startups. The Lagos state government specifically by the law. “From what we’ve seen today, we “We don’t know how it’s going to be enforced.” ORide, announced on Twitter that it would ban motorcycles, com- don’t think the ban affects our business,” Azodoh said. part of OPay in which Norwegian software firm Opera Ltd LEUCHARS: Catalan separatist Clara Ponsati has not But Gbenga Omotoso, Lagos state commissioner of has an equity interest, also offers ride-hailing motorcycles set foot in her native for two years for fear of monly known as okadas, from operating in most of Lagos because of what it described as their “chaos and disorder- information and strategy, said the ban would affect all in Lagos. Reuters could not immediately reach the compa- the Spanish authorities. But her circumstances could be passenger companies and only courier service companies ny for comment. In June, Gokada told Reuters that there about to change thanks to Brexit. The former education liness” and “scary figures” of fatal accidents. Companies such as Max.ng, Oride and Gokada have would be exempt. are an estimated 8 million okada drivers operating across minister in the Catalan regional government of Carles “They have been found to have become part of the Nigeria. — Reuters Puigdemont is wanted in for alleged sedition over been aiming to capitalize on the congested Lagos roads the failed 2017 independence bid. An economics pro- fessor at St Andrews University in , her extra- dition case in being heard at the courts in . But once Britain leaves the European Union on Friday, she will automatically become a member of the European Parliament - something she believes will give Nigeria, Oxford her immunity from extradition. After Brexit, additional MEPs elected in the remaining member states will be English Dictionary installed to fill empty seats left behind by the outgoing British deputies. Following the May 2019 European ‘rub minds’ Parliament elections, Ponsati is due to take one of the five seats reallocated to Spain, as an incoming MEP for the Together for Catalonia party. LAGOS: Ask a Nigerian what corrupt politi- Once Ponsati joins the European legislature, the 62- cians do with public funds and he or she may year-old hopes to benefit from immunity, as say, “They chop it.” The Oxford English Puigdemont and a former Catalonia health minister Toni Dictionary agrees. Hailing from the streets of Comin already do as MEPs. “Once I become an MEP, I Nigeria, “to chop” - meaning to illicitly make get immunity from prosecution — and that means that money, and “rub minds” - a synonym for “con- the Spanish justice should withdraw the order of arrest fer”, are among 29 distinctive aspects of against me,” Ponsati told AFP at her home in the small Nigerian English to obtain pride of place in the Scottish town of Leuchars. “I should be free to walk in : In this file photo, pro Scottish Independence campaigners listen as Scottish Nationalist Party (SNP) leader august dictionary. Barcelona without being threatened with arrest.” Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s First Minister addresses a rally calling for Scottish independence in Glasgow. — AFP “By taking ownership of English and using it as their own medium of expression, Nigerians May court date have made, and are continuing to make, a unique union is not one of equals and fuel support for independ- However, Ponsati knows that the Spanish authorities and distinctive contribution to English as a glob- may not give in so easily. has not withdrawn the Brexit fueling calls ence,” she wrote on Twitter. The Scottish government is expected to set out its response and next steps in the al language,” the dictionary said in notes arrest warrants issued for Puigdemont and Comin. The accompanying its latest update this month. One Belgian judge who examined their extradition requests coming days. The stand-off could trigger a legal challenge of the major drivers of Nigerian cultural influ- decided to suspend them when they became MEPs, for second Scottish but experts warn such an approach is unlikely to be suc- ence abroad has been its Afropop music which meaning they can freely move around Europe - cessful. “Whether there is a second referendum-and if so, although, as a precaution, they do not return to Spain. independence vote on what terms - is a political question that will be resolved now dominates swathes of home continent Ponsati believes the Scottish courts will be sensitive in the political arena,” the UK Constitutional Law Africa and influenced the work of overseas to her case. “It’s for the Scottish judges to decide what Association assessed in a paper. artists as big as Drake. the implications of my MEP status are. I totally trust jus- EDINBURGH: Britain’s departure from the European “There are no legal short cuts through that space,” Chris Getting Nigerian English recognized for tice in Scotland,” she said. Furthermore, with Brexit, the Union has revived the debate for an independent Scotland, McCorkindale and Aileen McHarg added in the article, inclusion has not been easy, however, according European Arrest Warrant could lose its validity in the which was thought to have been settled in a landmark ref- “Constitutional Pathways to a Second Scottish to Nigerian author TJ Benson, who said his United Kingdom and have to be replaced by an interna- erendum nearly six years ago. Scots voted by a majority of Referendum”. Sturgeon has said the SNP has a mandate for favorite of the new Nigerian terms making it into tional extradition request, starting a complex process 55 percent to remain part of the United Kingdom in 2014, independence based on previous victories in general and the dictionary was “severally”, meaning “repeat- which Ponsati could claim was politically motivated. effectively taking the issue off the table in what was Scottish parliamentary elections that have increasingly edly”. “When it (Nigerian English) is being sup- “The fact that Spain is not respecting European law described as a “once-in-a-generation” decision. But backed her party. That has prompted many to point out that pressed or we are being told that there is a bet- certainly has an effect on how external judges see the nationalists argue Brexit represents a material change in it may be prudent for her and fellow nationalists to wait for ter way (of saying something), or this is what is way Spanish justices are managing the conflict in Scotland’s constitutional arrangements with the UK gov- the next Scottish elections in 2021 to secure more political correct and then this is what is not correct, I Catalonia,” she said. After voluntarily going to the ernment in London. Some 62 percent of people north of and moral leverage. The SNP’s leader in the UK parliament, think it affects us and it also demeans us,” he Scottish police in November, Ponsati was released on the border voted to remain in the EU in 2016. Ian Blackford, has said Conservative cabinet ministers had told Reuters. bail. Her extradition case is due to begin on May 11, That is now prompting some who voted “no” to inde- conceded that “Westminster cannot keep saying ‘no’ to a “I think this (recognition) is empowering for following a preliminary hearing on March 5 which pendence in 2014 but “yes” to stay in the bloc to shift their second referendum on independence”. He told the Herald lots of us writers and for everyday people, could decide on her immunity claim, as she will be an attitudes on Scotland going its own way after more than newspaper in an interview that Tory ministers have told him because at the end of the day it ties back to MEP by then. She has raised more than £166,000 300 years of union. “I did vote in the last referendum and I privately that “this is a line which is going to be difficult to identity and how we perceive ourselves and how ($217,000, 197,000 euros) in online donations towards actually voted to remain in the UK,” said Christopher hold in the longer term.” Nicola McEwen, a professor of ter- we express ourselves.” Another of the unique Clannachan, who took part in an independence march in her legal costs. — AFP ritorial politics at Edinburgh University, says if support for a Nigerian references now in the dictionary is Glasgow earlier this month. “I think the Brexit situation has fresh vote grows to a point where it reflects a clear majority, “okada”, which stems from the massive traffic highlighted a real deficit in the UK’s constitution where the UK government would likely have to accept. Scotland votes for one thing and does not see that in jams for which megacity Lagos is internationally notorious. Okada are motorcycle taxis that return. “So that’s what’s changed for me and that’s what’s Too close to call changed for a lot of people.” weave through motionless cars and are named Pro-independence marches are a common sight on the after the defunct Okada Air airline because they streets of Scotland’s main cities of Glasgow, in the west, are often the only way to “fly” through the city. ‘Electoral mandate’ and Edinburgh, 50 miles away in the east. Earlier this But okada are the bane of daily commuters The First Minister of Scotland’s devolved parliament, month, an estimated 80,000 people braved icy winds and such as baker Dambo Godfrey. “There is no day Nicola Sturgeon, has in recent months been ramping up the torrential rain, waving blue and white Saltire flags and call- pressure for a new independence referendum - dubbed ing for an end to “London rule”. But even if London agrees I go out that I don’t see okada in my path,” said “indyref2”. Sturgeon wrote to Britain’s Prime Minister Boris to allow a second referendum, nationalists still face a battle Godfrey. “It should not be very difficult (now) Johnson after the December general election, at which her to secure the support of a majority of their compatriots. for me to explain to a white man when he is ask- Scottish National Party (SNP) won a landslide across Polls over the past year consistently show no clear ing what is an okada - I will say: ‘Go and check Scotland. But he said London would not transfer powers to majority for either side, making any result too close to call. your English dictionary’.” Godfrey added that Edinburgh to hold another referendum, arguing it would “There has been an increase (in support for independence) the Oxford English Dictionary’s embrace of EDINBURGH: In this file photo, former Catalan “continue the political stagnation that Scotland has seen for but it has been modest and has been driven primarily by words from Nigeria, with the world’s largest Minister Professor Clara Ponsati (left), gestures as the last decade”. Sturgeon accused Johnson’s ruling those who voted to remain in the European Union,” said black population in one country - was only right. she leaves Edinburgh Sheriff Court with her lawyer Conservatives of ignoring the will of the people. McEwen. Any economic damage from Brexit in the coming “If over 190 million people are saying one thing, Aamer Anwar, having been released on bail. — AFP “The problem for the Tories is the longer they try to years, however, could fuel Scottish discontent and increase it is something that should be popular.” block democracy, the more they show the Westminster the chances of a “yes” vote to independence.— AFP 9 International Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Thailand police under scrutiny; record number of trafficking cases dismissed Police ‘on a drive to boost numbers to enhance global image’ BANGKOK: Thai prosecutors turned down about a fifth of sidered consensual. Lawyers and campaigners said the human trafficking cases sent to them by police last year, a conflation of smuggling and trafficking meant some state soon-to-be released government report shows, raising resources intended for trafficking victims were being spent concerns that police were on a drive to boost numbers to on migrants who had not been exploited. A second prose- enhance Thailand’s global image. The 79-page report - cutor source said they had also heard of police officers drafted to inform an annual US report ranking countries on being ordered to find more trafficking victims. their efforts to combat trafficking and revealed exclusively “This clearly shows that [the government] wants the by the Thomson Reuters Foundation - showed Thailand’s highest number of cases to show that many arrests have public prosecutors rejected 64 of 364 cases in 2019. been made,” said Adisorn Kerdmongkol, a coordinator at Thailand has faced criticism in recent years for failing the Migrant Working Group. “Human trafficking is a politi- to stop trafficking in its lucrative textile and seafood sec- cal issue in Thailand.” Thailand’s anti-trafficking depart- tors, as well as the sex trade. The country secured 194 ment - part of the social ministry - declined to respond to trafficking convictions last year, down 17% from 2018, the questions about the report, which is due to be sent to US report found. Most of the cases dismissed last year officials by the end of January. involved smuggled migrants being misidentified as traffick- ing victims, according to two prosecutors who said police Wasted resources? had been told to increase trafficking figures amid concerns Thailand rescued a record 1,807 trafficking victims last about the dwindling number. year, up from 622 in 2018, the government said this month. “In practice, (most) of the police know that the cases Most were Burmese migrants bound for Malaysia and involve smuggling, but they receive orders to treat them as campaigners have questioned whether many had in fact human trafficking offences,” one public prosecutor said on been smuggled. Police chief Vaisaya said it was certain that condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the people headed to Malaysia would be trafficked once they matter. “This is perhaps due to the lack of clear under- crossed the border. standing on the differences between trafficking and smug- “Regardless of whether it’s human trafficking or not, gling of migrants.” what we want is for the offenders to be in jail,” he said, The percentage of trafficking cases dismissed by pros- adding that prosecutors had dismissed trafficking cases ecutors hit a record 18% last year, up from 10% in 2018 referred to them by police because “the crime has not and 4% in 2017. The 64 rejected cases from 2019 were been committed yet”. Public prosecutor Pravit Roykaew BANGKOK: A passenger wearing a mask collects luggage at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok. — AFP instead prosecuted under smuggling and transnational said Thai authorities often rushed to make decisions within crime laws, the report said. Police lieutenant general 24 hours about whether or not someone was a victim of Jaruvat Vaisaya - the country’s top anti-trafficking cop - human trafficking. shelters, wrongly labeling smuggled migrants as traffick- weren’t careful enough,” he said. “Having a high number of said officers were responding to a growing number of “Authorities are confused with the (trafficking) law ... ing victims has wasted government time and money, said cases doesn’t mean that Thailand is successful in solving people being transported towards Malaysia. it does not provide a specific timeframe on identifying Papop Siamhan, an independent lawyer with expertise in human trafficking.” Thailand is home to about 610,000 Unlike trafficking, which involves deception or control victims,” Roykaew said. “This results in not getting all trafficking. modern-day slaves - about one in 113 of its population of over another person for the purpose of exploitation, smug- the facts, which may cause ... misidentification.” From “If it’s one or two cases, it’s acceptable, but if you have 69 million - according to the Global Slavery Index by the gling means entering another country illegally and is con- court proceedings to the provision of care in state-run over 60 cases (that were dismissed), it means you just rights group Walk Free Foundation. — Reuters

police raised the alarm over a trafficker the next day, 2018, the crime bureau added, with the majority trafficked Indian schoolgirl wins Malsawmtluangi soon spotted the woman again and for marriage, forced labor or into domestic servitude, and began talking to her before agreeing to take care of the rarely reunited with their families. girl while the woman ran an errand. In Mizoram, anti-trafficking efforts have been ‘bravery award’ for It was then that both girls escaped - Malsawmtluangi increased in recent years in a bid to stem a rise in report- Mothers of jihadist, carrying the child on her shoulders and running home ed cases. “We are stepping up our efforts because young thwarting trafficker while avoiding stones hurled by the angry trafficker. “If people are increasingly getting duped by fake agents Belgium attack victim Carolyn had not stopped them, the trafficker would have promising jobs,” said Vanlalruata, president of the Central disappeared with the little girl,” said Khawlhrinj Young Mizo Association, a charity that works on anti- CHENNAI: An Indian schoolgirl who won a bravery Lalhlupuii, a secretary at the Mizoram State Council for trafficking programs. “This young girl will now inspire write book together award after she helped a child escape a trafficker, is to Child Welfare that recommended her for the annual others and bring attention to the problem,” he said. become the inspiration for a new anti-slavery campaign, award. “She was very brave to understand the danger to The National Bravery Awards are given to around 25 officials said yesterday. Carolyn Malsawmtluangi, from the the little girl and save her,” she said. “We plan to share her children between the ages of six and 18 every year. The BRUSSELS: Bloodlines bind them to people on northeastern state of Mizoram, was honored by the gov- story in all schools and create awareness on trafficking recipients, selected from across India, are given a medal, opposite sides of a violent divide. One is the moth- ernment on India’s Republic Day last week for “showing and safety.” a certificate, a cash prize, and also receive financial er of a jailed jihadist, the other the mother of a vic- exemplary courage” after she stopped a human trafficker Of the nearly 6,000 victims of human trafficking in assistance to complete their schooling. In the past, chil- tim wounded in a bloody 2016 attack in Brussels. who had kidnapped a seven-year-old girl from a neigh- India each year, about half were children, according to the dren have won awards for foiling robberies, fighting off But these two Belgian women shared tears, and boring village. latest data from the National Crime Records Bureau. Most armed intruders, rescuing people from drowning, saving compassion, and finally an idea to write a book Malsawmtluangi, 11, first spotted the trafficker when are women and children from rural areas looking to lives in a stampede and putting out fires. “We are very together to tell the world what unites them beyond playing volleyball with friends in June last year but escape poverty - lured to cities each year by traffickers proud and happy,” said Lalsangzeli, Malsawmtluangi’s the differences. assumed they were a mother and daughter, and even who promise good jobs, but sell them into modern day mother. “The entire village will celebrate my brave Fatima Ezzarhouni, a 48-year-old born in Morocco asked if the young girl wanted to join their game. But after slavery. More than 60,000 children were kidnapped in daughter.” — Reuters and raised since the age of four in the city of where she works as a care assistant, said she “just clicked” with Sophie Pirson, a 61-year-old employee in a contemporary arts museum who lives in Brussels. Iraqi protesters rebuild torched camps; “We connected immediately,” confirmed Pirson. They UN: Sahel violence met in 2018 in a therapy group started by clinical sociologists that brought together mothers of having devastating rocket attack sparks fears jihadists and of the victims of a wave of attacks that rocked Europe two years earlier. impact on children BAGHDAD: Anti-government demon- The deadliest in Belgium occurred in the capital on strators rebuilt torched protest camps March 22, 2016, when double attacks claimed by the across Iraq on Monday as more than a Islamic State group killed 32 people and wounded DAKAR: Hundreds of children in the Sahel were dozen countries condemned the 340 others. Pirson’s younger daughter Leonor, then killed, maimed or forcibly separated from their par- “lethal” reaction by security forces aged 30, was travelling in a Brussels metro train that ents last year, the United Nations said yesterday, as a seeking to snuff out the civil cam- day when a suicide bomber in her carriage set off his jihadist conflict rages across the region. In Mali alone, paign. The renewed pressure on Iraq’s bomb. More than a dozen people were killed. Leonor, 277 children were killed or maimed during the first government came a day after three mutilated and made deaf, ended up being treated for a rockets hit the US embassy in nine months of 2019, the UN children’s agency long time in hospital. Baghdad, wounding one person and UNICEF said in a report, more than double the num- marking a dangerous escalation after ber in the year before. Despite support from French Living a ‘nightmare’ months of close calls against American and UN troops, Mali has been struggling to quell an Sitting by her daughter’s bed in intensive care, facilities. US Secretary of State Mike Islamist insurgency that erupted in the north in 2012 Pirson said her thoughts turned “to the mothers of the Pompeo said Monday on Twitter that and which has claimed thousands of military and civil- bombers” that day. “I said to myself, it must be horri- “the government of #Iraq must take ian lives. ble for them to to have their son killed and nobody immediate steps to protect our diplo- The conflict has since spread to the centre of the being able to understand the pain those mothers were matic facilities as required by interna- West African country, as well as neighboring Sahel going through,” she told AFP. tional law.” Ezzarhouni’s son Abdellah Nouamane wasn’t states Burkina Faso and Niger, inflaming ethnic ten- The attack on the embassy sparked sions along the way. The whole Sahel region has seen involved in those Belgian attacks. But he was an IS renewed fears that Iraq could be jihadist. Recruited online aged 18 while in Antwerp, he a “significant increase of violence against children dragged into another armed conflict who are caught in the cross fire,” according to the NAJAF: An Iraqi student, holding a national flag, flashes the V-sign for victory left without word for Syria in 2013 to join the so- as its capital and Shiite-majority south during anti-government protests in the Shiite shrine city of Najaf in central Iraq called “caliphate”. Ezzarhouni said that since then she report, which added that hundreds had been maimed are rocked by the country’s largest or forcibly separated from their families. yesterday. — AFP has lived “a nightmare” over the fate of her eldest and deadliest grassroots movement in child. In 2018, a telephone caller said Nouamane had Mali is the only country for which there are hard decades. Youth-led rallies erupted on figures on the number of child war victims, a UNICEF been killed in Syria. But a year later a Belgian TV October 1 over corruption, joblessness n’t commit to the narrative of the way through the city to mourn the crew tracked him down to a Kurdish-run prison where spokeswoman said. But nonetheless she said that chil- and poor services but were met with Sadrist movement or any other politi- young man killed earlier in the day in he was held with other IS fighters. dren in Burkina Faso and Niger have also been mur- violence that has since left nearly 480 cal party,” said Zainab Mohammad, a Nasiriyah, identified as 14-year-old Ali Nouamane told them he “regretted” his decision to dered, sexually abused, kidnapped, or pressed into people dead - most of them protest- university student in the shrine city of Zuweir. Relatives carried the boy’s become a jihadist and wanted to return to Belgium, armed groups. The spiraling conflict had also forced ers. Security forces and unidentified Karbala. “We came out on our own, coffin through Najaf, a favored burial where he has been convicted in absentia on terrorism about 1.2 million to flee their homes as of November - gunmen this week tried to clamp and we will continue until our place for Iraqi Shiites, holding up his charges. He remains locked up in northeast Syria with a two-fold increase on 2018 - of whom more than half down on rallies again, and more than demands our met,” she said. portrait and weeping loudly. little chance of repatriation. Ezzarhouni said the bits are children. Some 4.9 million children need humani- 20 protesters have lost their lives. Protesters are demanding snap elec- of information she gets about her son are rare and tarian aid, the report added. “We cannot help but be On Monday, 16 ambassadors based tions, an independent successor to PM warns of broader war sometimes contradictory - especially about “the two struck by the scale of violence children are facing,” in Iraq issued a joint statement con- prime minister Adel Abdel Mahdi - Sadr’s march on Friday saw thou- children he had with a Dutch woman. I have no idea said UNICEF’s regional director for West and Central demning the “excessive and lethal use who has resigned but remains in a sands turn out to demand American where they are.” Today, she also spends part of her Africa Marie-Pierre Poirier, in a statement. “Hundreds of force” and demanding the govern- caretaker role - and the prosecution troops leave the country, after the US of thousands of them have lived through traumatizing ment allow citizens to protest freely in of those implicated in corruption or used Iraqi airspace to carry out a time speaking in schools about her experience as the experiences”. But the impact of the conflict goes Baghdad and the south. “Despite recent bloodshed. drone strike on top Iranian and Iraqi mother of a radicalized Islamist. beyond violence. — AFP assurances by the government, securi- Early on Monday, unidentified gun- officials on January 3. Outraged, Iraq’s ty forces and armed groups continue men stormed a protest camp in the parliament voted on January 5 in favor Friendship from tragedy to use live fire in these locations, flashpoint southern city of Nasiriyah and of ousting all foreign forces, including After meeting at the therapy session, the two resulting in multiple deaths and torched tents, an AFP correspondent the 5,200 US troops deployed in Iraq. women discovered, beyond their anguish, shared val- injuries of civilians, while some pro- there said. The attackers fired on Pro-Iran factions in Iraq, particularly ues that have forged a new bond. They have built testers face intimidation and abduc- activists who had been sleeping there, those tied to the Hashed Al-Shaabi their common esteem for being welcoming and open, tion,” said the statement. It was signed killing one and wounding four others, a military force, had long lobbied for the and of their status as grandmothers into a friendship by the US, UK, France, Germany and a medic said. But hours later, determined ouster of American forces. On Monday, - a relationship that could serve as a platform to dozen other countries. protesters had erected new tents and top Hashed commander Qais Al- pass on something positive from the tragedies they even built a one-room cement installa- Khazali said any candidate being con- have lived. ‘We will continue’ tion, signaling their determination to stay sidered to replace Abdel Mahdi must “If we have been able to come together to write Anti-government activists feared a put. In the oil-rich but impoverished port pledge to execute parliament’s vote this book, with our differences, with what has hap- crackdown this week after losing the city of Basra, student protesters re- and oust foreign troops. Other condi- pened to each of us, I hope that it will make people support of powerful Shiite cleric erected tents dismantled by authorities tions for the new premier included think about what we can do together today to fight Moqtada Sadr, who backed the rallies over the weekend, AFP’s reporter said. holding snap parliamentary elections barbarism,” Pirson said. “For me, it’s to pass on a mes- by the end of the year and implement- sage,” added Ezzarhouni, who said she gave more of NIAMEY: French Minister of Army Forces Florence when they first erupted then abruptly The main protest camp in the Shiite changed course Friday after holding holy city of Najaf was also burned ing a landmark development deal with herself than she ever had before to write the book, Parly (center) stands as she meets French officers of China. Washington has blamed hardline confiding to her friend painful secrets she had long the Barkhane counter-terrorism operation in Africa’s his own rally. University students have down overnight by unidentified gun- carried the torch, gathering in the men, but protesters jumped into Hashed factions, including Khazali’s kept hidden. Their book is a collection of joint inter- Sahel region, at the Barkhane base near Niamey in thousands to insist on their political action Monday morning, blocking Asaib Ahl al-Haq for rocket attacks on views between the two women. They hope to have it Niger. — AFP independence. “When we first came roads with burning tyres. In the early the US embassy and American troops published in March, in time for the fourth anniversary out to protest and hold sit-ins, we did- afternoon, a funeral march made its in recent months. — AFP of the Brussels attacks. — AFP 10 Established 1961 Analysis Wednesday, January 29, 2020

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Currency crisis brings This photo taken on Dec 10, 2019 shows the first female flogger whipping a woman in public in Banda Aceh, after she was caught in close proximity with a man who new hardship to is not her husband in a hotel. — AFP war-weary Yemen

flare-up of a currency war between Yemen’s foes has sent the riyal crashing, aggravating a Aceh unveils new female flogging squad Ahumanitarian crisis that has already driven millions to the brink of famine after five years of con- he masked woman nervously approaches her ization bring clashes with local cultural and religious around 3:00 am weren’t so lucky and were arrested on flict. The confrontation was sparked when the Iran- target, shuffles into position and then unleashes norms. Enforcement too has increased and now Aceh suspicion of breaking strict codes about unmarried aligned Houthi rebels, who control the capital Sanaa Ta flurry of lashes - proving herself as the newest says it’s trying to follow Islamic law, which calls for men and women interacting. “This shows that we never and most of the north, banned the use of new ban- member of the first female flogging squad in women to whip female perpetrators. This is already sleep looking for violations of sharia (Islamic law),” knotes printed by the central bank in Aden which is Indonesia’s Aceh province. The new recruit initially what happens in neighboring Malaysia. But convinc- Safriadi said. run by the internationally recognized government. needed some coaxing to punish the offender - an ing women to participate has been no easy task, and From behind bars, one of the men said that there The ban on the notes, which were first issued unmarried woman caught in a hotel room with a man. it’s taken years to assemble the first female squad, was nothing romantic happening at the coffee shop. three years ago, came into effect on Jan 19 when res- Such behavior constitutes a morality crime in Aceh, the according to Safriadi, who heads provincial capital “We don’t even know the women and were sitting at idents and moneychangers stopped dealing with only region in the world’s biggest Muslim-majority Banda Aceh’s Sharia Implementation Unit. different tables,” he told AFP. The women were later them under the threat of a 10-year jail term, accord- nation that imposes Islamic law - known as sharia. Eight women - all sharia officers - agreed to be released with a reprimand as were the men, but police ing to sources close to the rebels. The Houthis insist Those found guilty of breaches are often publicly floggers and were trained in the appropriate technique said the trio may be charged for a new offence, after it they are safeguarding the people against high infla- whipped with a rattan cane. and advised how to limit injury. Previously, a dozen was determined they were gay. Same-sex relations can tion, but the move has slashed purchasing power and But despite her reticence, she persevered and deliv- men performed all the whippings in the city for an earn residents a whipping in front of jeering crowds, effectively created two exchange rates - around 682 ered her first flogging. “I think she did a good job. Her unspecified fee. For security reasons, Aceh officials which can number in the hundreds. “Sharia in Aceh is to the dollar in Aden and 600 in Sanaa and the north. technique was nice,” Banda Aceh Sharia police chief declined to let AFP speak with the floggers, who are still lenient,” said resident Saiful Tengkuh. “Aceh needs The currency’s value has dropped some 15 per- investigator Zakwan, who uses one name, told AFP. The outfitted in cloth masks and loose fitting brown uni- harsher punishments like stoning, not just whipping. cent in the south in the past five weeks, and about controversial punishment enrages rights activists and forms to hide their identities. “We train them to make Someone committing adultery should be stoned 100 seven percent in the north, in a slide that shows no generates heated media debate, as well as amongst sure they’re physically fit and teach them how to do a times,” he added. sign of slowing. In the marketplaces of Yemen, stalls politicians. Indonesia’s president has issued a call for proper whipping,” Zakwan said. Aceh, home to about 5 million people, once mulled are piled high with tomatoes, onions and bananas, the public floggings to stop but he has little say over But the secret for any whipping is getting past the beheading for serious crimes, but the central govern- while nearby shopkeepers offer racks of clothes and what happens in Aceh, a deeply conservative region on mental hurdle of lashing fellow citizens. For that, you ment ruled it out. This summer, it made headlines over consumer goods. But ordinary people are increas- Sumatra island. need to look to God, Zakwan said. “It’s kind of an a fatwa, or religious edict, against online game ingly distressed at the loss in value of their cash, Unlike the rest of the nation, Aceh follows religious indoctrination that we give to them so they have a bet- PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) and opposing which has inflicted more misery in a long war that law as part of a 2005 autonomy deal agreed with the ter understanding of their role - have no mercy for a national women’s football league because it didn’t pits the Houthis against the government which is central government that ended a decades-long sepa- those who violate God’s law’, he added. have a stadium where only female players, match offi- backed by a Saudi-led coalition. ratist insurgency. Here, public whipping remains a cials and spectators would be present. “Prices are extremely expensive, we are not common punishment for scores of offenders for a ‘Too lenient’ But whipping is often what gets Aceh in the news - receiving our salaries and the situation is going from range of charges including gambling, adultery, drinking Aceh officials insist caning deters crime, with unwanted attention local officials say is Islamophobic. bad to worse,” said Abdo, a resident of the port city alcohol, and having gay or pre-marital sex. But the job patrols often scouring public places and establish- Advocates say many people caught breaking religious of Aden. In Sanaa, which has been under rebel con- has always been done by men. Until now. ments -or acting on tip-offs - to monitor behavior. law choose whipping as an efficient, if painful, way to trol since 2014, residents also hit out at the measure. Sharia police in Banda Aceh, a city of some 220,000 avoid a stiff jail term. But this rough justice can take a “The ban has resulted in massive harm to citizens. ‘No mercy’ people, are on the streets round-the-clock in three toll. Floggings can be so severe that people pass out or Many of us own quantities of the new banknotes but More and more women are being charged for shifts. On a recent patrol, a couple sitting close to each are hospitalized, with the most serious crimes - includ- from now on we will not be able to use them to buy morality crimes such as public affection or premarital other on the beach escaped with a reprimand. But a ing gay sex and having relations with a minor - earning our day’s food,” Abdulaziz Ali told AFP. sex, experts say, as greater internet access and global- group of men and women spotted at a coffee shop as many as 150 lashes. — AFP A senior UN official warned earlier this month that certain factors that threatened to trigger famine last year in Yemen - including a plunge in the value public put faith in surgical masks on Tuesday, an act of of the national currency - were once again looming Deploying flimsy self-defense in worrying times. “I’m very concerned large. “With a rapidly depreciating riyal and disrupt- about the virus,” Tanyamon Jamophast, 28, told AFP. ed salary payments, we are again seeing some of the “Everywhere I go (in addition to a mask) I also bring key conditions that brought Yemen to the brink of masks against alcohol and gel sanitiser to clean my hands and avoid famine a year ago,” Ramesh Rajasingham, who coor- areas with Chinese tourists.” Others wore heavier duty dinates humanitarian aid in the country, told the UN virus: Fig leaf or - and more effective - PM2.5 or 3M (N95) masks, in a Security Council. “We must not let that happen city shrouded for weeks by damaging pollution. again,” he said, adding that even if it escapes famine, Fourteen infections, all but one detected in Chinese vis- Yemen will remain the world’s worst humanitarian first defense? itors, have been reported in Thailand, a peak season crisis in 2020. destination for the tour groups from the mainland. The Yemeni government moved the central bank from Sanaa to Aden in 2016 in order to have effective s fears of a deadly virus sweep the globe, pan- Sold out control on monetary policy, currency and payment of icked members of the public are depending on a For chemist Suphak Saphakkul that has led to the wages. But the central bank’s historic home in Sanaa Aflimsy first line of defense - surgical masks that most intense panic-buying of medical items he has wit- is still operating under the Houthis, who have stew- are coveted, but in short supply and of limited use. While nessed since the SARS epidemic in 2002/3. “All our ardship over the country’s major consumer markets. Asian commuters cover their noses and mouths with the (mask) suppliers are out of stock. These masks are blue-green paper-thin covers - and social media buzzes A discarded facemask sits on a street in Wuhan on Jan 26, The Sana’a Centre for Strategic Studies said in a 2020, a city at the epicenter of a viral outbreak. — AFP made in China and the country itself is out of stock,” he recent report that the tussle threatened to collapse with mask emojis, rumors of stockpiles and shortages - said. “We know that it does not provide 100 percent the riyal-based system and had driven the country the humble medical mask has become an essential protection but it is better than nothing... (and) it can towards the use of hard currencies, mostly Saudi weapon in the battle against an invisible enemy. according to France’s health minister Agnes Buzyn. also reassure the public.” Even for those who have one, riyals and United States dollars. Cheap, mass-made and usually readily available at Satoshi Hiroi, a senior researcher at the Osaka there is a proper method to masking up. “A population in which millions already verge on convenience stores, experts dispute the usefulness of Institute of Public Heath, told AFP, that high-quality On Monday the mayor of Wuhan, the epicentre of starvation is set to bear increasing costs, further masks as a tool to block transmission of the new SARS- masks could be effective, referring to more expensive, the outbreak, took an online battering after wearing his eroded purchasing power and a deterioration in the like virus. While the basic, loose-fitting mask can help tight-fitting respirators used to filter fine particulates of mask inside-out. “You can inhale the virus if there is a humanitarian situation resulting from the escalating restrict the spread of cough droplets from infected peo- dust and pollution. “But as always, there is no 100-per- gap between the mask and the face,” added Satoshi currency war,” it said. Anthony Biswell, an economic ple, they are a “one-way” defense and do not create an cent guarantee,” he said, adding, the science was still Hiroi of the Osaka Institute of Public Health. Meanwhile analyst from the Sana’a Centre, said that the north effective barrier to breathing in dangerous airborne out on exactly how the virus - which has so far killed the Hubei provincial governor was pilloried for not was suffering from a shortage in supply of the old microbes. “It is not one of the recommended barrier 106 people and infected over 4,000 - is transmitted. wearing a mask during a press conference - contraven- riyals, and that ordinary citizens were turning to the measures” for people who have not been contaminated, Still, on Bangkok’s streets many members of the ing an order to cover-up in public. — AFP black market to convert their new notes. — AFP

Centre for Scientific Research and lead author of the Revenge of the study, in the journal PNAS. For six months starting in November 2018, the alba- tross - which have the wingspan of a small car - albatross: Seabirds patrolled more than 47 million sq km of open ocean. The birds are perfectly adapted for the mission, expose illicit fishing Weimerskirch told AFP. They cover great distances and are particularly attracted to fishing boats -especially the fish or fish parts thrown overboard. To turn the or the magnificent but maligned albatross, it was albatross into high-flying spies, a team of scientists time for a little payback after centuries of insult designed a light-weight device with a GPS antenna to Fand injury. Snagged by longlines, tangled in nets, track location, another antenna to detect ship radar, a shot at by sailors, and scorned by poets as lazy or a third one to send the data back to headquarters - and a bad omen, the world’s largest flying seabird is today a solar panel to power them all. front-line agent in the fight against illegal fishing, The units were mounted on the backs of the birds, according to a study published Monday. Indeed, a which seemed unperturbed by the extra cargo. All reg- istered fishing vessels have an automated identification Old and new Yemeni bank notes are pictured at a squadron of 169 albatross fitted with cutting-edge money exchange office in the southern port city of communications gear revealed that a third of the ves- system (AIS) that is supposed to remain activated. Aden on Jan 23, 2020. - AFP sels plying Antarctic waters below the Indian Ocean “On certain Chinese or Spanish ships the signal sud- are very likely filling their hulls unlawfully with tooth- denly goes silent when they approach an economic fish, ice fish, krill and other bounty from the icy waters. zone,” Weimerskirch said. “That means they’re fishing On the high seas beyond national economic zones, in the boundary area.” That’s a problem for out-gunned In this file photo taken on July 1, 2007, an albatross flies anything goes. But some of the choicest hunting enforcement forces and conservationists trying to pre- over the Austral seas off the archipelago of Crozet. — AFP All articles appearing on this page are the grounds in that region lie within the territorial waters of vent rogue commercial ships from emptying the oceans around Prince Edward and Marion of edible life forms. Most alternative monitoring sys- personal opinion of the writers. Kuwait Islands, and France, near the Crozet and Kerguelen tems are impracticable. head. They can also be thrown off by choppy seas. But Times takes no responsibility for views Islands. “It’s the first time we’ve had an estimate like Flying is too costly and hit-or-miss. Satellite-based even when a ship turns off the AIS system, it still needs expressed therein. this for detecting illegal fishing ships,” said Henri radars that detect metal mass are also expensive, and radar to navigate and avoid collisions, which gave Weimerskirch, a marine biologist at France’s National only work when the probe happens to be in orbit over- researchers something else to home in on. — AFP Established 1961

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29, 2020 Business

Global equities rallied in Q4 2019 Wall Street recovers NBK wins ‘Best Customer Service Bank’, 12on Fed support, easing trade fears 13 after turbulent Monday 14 ‘Best CSR Program’ excellence awards

CBK, ABK and KfW IPEX-Bank lead arrange $650 million project finance MPW signs PPP agreement for Umm Al-Hayman Company for waste water treatment

KUWAIT: Dr Rana Abdullah Al-Fares, Minister of Public Works, Bakheet Al-Rashidi, Chairman and Joachim Dudey, CEO of Umm Al-Hayman Company for Waste Water Treatment, Talal Behbehani (Chairman ABK), Sheikh Ahmad Duaij Al- Sabah (Chairman CBK), Motlaq Al-Sanei - General Director KAPP and senior representatives from the German and Kuwaiti sponsors.

KUWAIT: A consortium of six banks led by WTE’s/EVN’s worldwide investment. The Government Commercial Bank of Kuwait (CBK), Al-Ahli Bank of of Kuwait understands that water is a critical resource, Kuwait (ABK), and KfW IPEX-Bank as Initial • Loan will finance construction and operation of Umm Al-Hayman Waste Water Plant and its decision to build the Umm Al-Hayman Waste Mandated Lead Arrangers and Joint Bookrunners has • CBK, ABK and KfW IPEX-Bank are Initial mandated lead arrangers and joint bookrunners Water Plant is in line with this view.” signed a US $650 million, 26-year project loan to In closing, Talal Mohamed Reza Behbehani, finance the construction and operation of the Umm Al- • The Korea Development Bank, DZ BANK AG, Siemens Bank, are also part of loan consortium Chairman Al-Ahli Bank of Kuwait, said: “The financing Hayman Waste Water Plant. The other mandated lead • Umm Al-Hayman will be the largest waste water treatment facility in the region of critical and mega infrastructure projects is a part of arrangers are The Korea Development Bank, DZ our strategic and long-term objective, especially as BANK AG, and Siemens Bank GmbH. Under the loan such projects are considered an essential part of facility agreement, KfW IPEX- Bank will act as the Sponsors. The project was tendered under the aus- invested in assets management and infrastructure proj- Kuwait’s Vision 2035, which is aimed at transforming Global Facility Agent and Offshore Security Agent, pices of KAPP and will be developed by WTE ects that help in creating efficient market structures and diversifying the national economy. We are while Al-Ahli Bank of Kuwait will act as the Onshore Wassertechnik GmbH (Germany), a fully owned sub- and streamline the investment industry. Umm Al- extremely pleased with the hard work of the MPW, Security Agent and Commercial Bank of Kuwait as the sidiary of the Austrian State Utility Company EVN, Hayman is a critical infrastructure project that will set KAPP, the sponsors and our partner banks that has Onshore Account Bank. The legal services were led by and International Financial Advisors (Kuwait). a new worldwide benchmark for sustainable water resulted in the signing of the PPP agreement today.” Hogan Lovells and ASAR Legal on behalf of the Umm Al-Hayman Waste Water Treatment Co. KSCP treatment and reuse.” The Umm Al-Hayman Waste Water Treatment Developers and Covington’s and Al-Bader Law Office is owned 40 percent by the German/Kuwaiti Sheikh Ahmad Duaij Al-Sabah, Chairman of Project is one of the largest of its kind in the world, on behalf of the Financiers. Development Consortium and 10 percent by the Commercial Bank of Kuwait, said: “The signing of the with a number of treatment plants, related facilities, On 23rd January 2020, Dr Rana Abdullah Al-Fares, Kuwait Investment Authority on behalf of the PPP agreement for Umm Al-Hayman project is truly a and transmission and distribution assets being con- Minister of Public Works; Bakheet Al-Rashidi, Government of Kuwait. The remaining 50 percent is landmark event and the learning during the process will structed, operated, rehabilitated and/or decommis- Chairman of Umm Al-Hayman Company for Waste held by KAPP, with the aim of offering shares to the serve as a benchmark for future PPP projects. The sign- sioned under a single concession agreement - the Water Treatment KSCP, and Joachim Dudey, CEO of public through an IPO once the facility is operational. ing of the financing agreements reflects major develop- Transmission and Sewage Treatment PPP Umm Al-Hayman Company for Waste Water Treatment Joachim Dudey, Director of WTE and CEO of the ers’ continued confidence in the ability of Kuwaiti insti- Agreement (TST-PPP). KSCP, signed the PPP agreement and other Project Umm Al-Hayman Company for Waste Water Treatment tutions to arrange financing for such complex project Under the terms of the TST-PPP, the assets are split Agreements for the development of the plant. KSCP, said: “WTE Wassertechnik is delighted to be financing transactions. We are pleased to partner with between two contracting models (BOT and DBO). The The banks represented by Talal Mohamed Reza involved in this project, which represents a milestone in our fellow banks on this project and thank the BOT elements include a new waste water treatment Behbehani (Chairman ABK) and Sheikh Ahmad Duaij the development of modern, efficient and environmen- Government of Kuwait for showing confidence in us.” plant near Umm Al-Hayman with an initial hydraulic Al-Sabah (Chairman CBK), signed the Financing tally friendly waste water infrastructure in Kuwait. We Markus Scheer, Member of the Management Board capacity of 500,000 m3/d daily average inflow and a Agreements with the Umm Al-Hayman Waste Water are pleased to bring our market leading water man- of KfW IPEX-Bank, said: “As a bank that is strongly new electrical substation for the stage 1 plant. The Company KSCP, in the presence of Motlaq Al-Sanei - agement and environmental systems technology to this committed to environmental sustainability, KfW IPEX- DBO elements include a number of wastewater trans- General Director of the Kuwait Authority for project, which we believe will be hugely beneficial for Bank has been involved with this project as an Initial mission assets, effluent transmission and distribution Partnership Projects (KAPP) and Senior all parties.” Mandated Lead Arranger from the very beginning. assets and the rehabilitation or demolition of existing Representatives from the German and Kuwaiti Saleh Al-Selmi of IFA said: “Since 1974, IFA has This builds on our many years of firm support to pumping stations and treatment facilities.

UK approves restricted Huawei role in 5G network LONDON: Britain yesterday greenlighted works, after Washington lobbied hard for The matter could hinder the chances of a limited role for Chinese telecoms giant the company to be sidelined completely on a favourable Britain-US trade deal after Huawei in the country’s 5G network, but security concerns. “Huawei is reassured by Brexit, according to analysts. Johnson on underscored that “high risk vendors” the UK government’s confirmation that we Monday insisted that the UK can have would be excluded from “sensitive” core can continue working with our customers “technological progress” while preserving infrastructure. London’s decision, following to keep the 5G roll-out on track,” said national security. There has been intense a meeting of the National Security Council Huawei Vice-President Victor Zhang. debate in Europe and the US about chaired by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, “This evidence-based decision will whether or not to exclude Huawei from came shortly after Brussels said it would result in a more advanced, more secure and developing 5G. allow Huawei a limited 5G role in the more cost-effective telecoms infrastructure However in Brussels yesterday, a top European Union. that is fit for the future.” European Union official said the bloc “We want world-class connectivity as Washington has banned Huawei from would not ban Huawei and would instead soon as possible but this must not be at the the rollout of the next generation mobile impose “strict” rules. US President Donald expense of our national security,” Britain’s networks because of concerns-strongly Trump has already ordered American firms Digital Secretary Nicky Morgan said in denied-that the firm could be under the to cease doing business with market leader reference to high-speed fifth generation control of Beijing. Huawei, and urged allies to follow suit. networks that offer almost instantaneous Unlike the United States, Britain has Trump’s Secretary of State Mike LONDON: A photograph shows the logo of Chinese company Huawei at their main UK offices and reliable data transfer. been using Huawei technology in its sys- Pompeo on Sunday declared that Britain in Reading, west of London, yesterday. — AFP “High risk vendors never have been and tems for the past 15 years. faced a “momentous decision”. Huawei is never will be in our most sensitive net- The US had threatened to limit intelli- widely viewed as providing the most Existing providers of limited 5G net- A number of UK mobile phone opera- works,” she insisted. gence sharing with London in the event of advanced alternative for super-fast data work infrastructure in Britain include tors, including EE and Vodafone, currently Huawei welcomed news that it would Huawei winning a UK role. All eyes will transfers behind technologies such as Nokia and Ericsson, while non-core ele- sell 5G services-but it is so far available have at least a limited role in building now be on Washington’s response to self-driving cars and remotely operated ments include antennae and base stations only in a handful of cities, notably London Britain’s high-speed fifth generation net- Tuesday’s announcements. factory robots. attached to masts and roofs. and . — AFP 12 Business Wednesday, January 29, 2020

NBK MARKETS REPORT Global equities rallied in Q4 2019 on Fed support, easing trade fears Kuwaiti equities benefit from MSCI EM inclusion

KUWAIT: After losing momentum in the third quarter, global equities rallied in the fourth quarter, rounding off a strong year for equities. Easing trade tensions, posi- tive corporate earnings, lower interest rates, and signs of improvement in macroeconomic data have led to a restoration of investor confidence and in a return of bull markets. Emerging markets led quarterly gains, trailed closely by US and other developed markets; GCC mar- kets, somewhat weighed down by geopolitics, under- performed but still booked decent gains in 4Q2019. The strong fourth quarter performance ended the year with strong gains where the MSCI World Index recorded a remarkable 24 percent y/y, led by the S&P500 which rose by a solid 29 percent y/y, extend- ing the record-long US bull-market into its tenth year. Global equities performed well in the fourth quarter, with the MSCI World up a solid 7.1 percent q/q led by the emerging markets and the S&P500, which gained kets’ performance was generally positive in 4Q2019 inflows recorded in 2019, at about KD 600 million ity of no further progress in US-China trade negotia- 9.1 percent and 8.5 percent q/q, respectively. with the MSCI GCC up 3.7 percent q/q, lifted by ($2billion). Bahraini equities on the other hand were tions (only phase one has been struck, with most tariffs Markets were supported by a de-escalation of trade Kuwait (+11 percent), Bahrain (+6 percent) and Saudi supported by good progress towards economic reforms still in place) and even the likelihood that this deal may tensions following the announcement of a phase one Arabia (+4 percent). Meanwhile, Qatar and Abu Dhabi and fiscal consolidation, which may have helped restore be unwound (unilaterally) given any future disagree- US-China trade deal in November 2019, which was posted minimal gains, while Dubai and Oman were economic stability and in turn investor confidence. The ment or lack of compliance. signed on 15 January. Markets were supported by three slightly negative. Saudi market performed decently, up 3.7 percent q/q as Secondly, a maturing business cycle and elevated Federal Reserve rate cuts between August and October, While escalating geopolitical risk and oil price investors shrugged off some concerns following the valuations (especially in the US) resulting from a and more importantly by signs of improvement in eco- volatility impacted most regional markets, Kuwaiti equi- (largely contested and perhaps unwarranted) down- record-long rally may lead to the unwinding of posi- nomic data, alleviating previous economic slowdown ties benefitted from strong sentiment and capital inflows grade of its sovereign credit rating by Fitch in October. tions (profit taking) by investors. Thirdly, no further concerns; the US labor market remains robust and the ahead of the recently confirmed MSCI EM inclusion, The weakest performers, Dubai and Oman were likely support is expected from a reduction in the interest slowdown in quarterly growth appears to have stabi- which will be implemented in May 2020. This inclusion hindered by the absence of market catalysts and eco- rates by the Fed and if anything, the rates might lized. Additional support came from mostly good US is expected to generate sizeable passive and active nomic challenges. increase especially if there are signs that inflation is corporate earnings, which helped bolster investor confi- inflows, which will support the market going forward inching upward, and last but not least geopolitical risk dence during the quarter. Chinese stocks were helped into 2020. The fourth quarter also saw the successful A cautiously optimistic outlook and oil price volatility continue to loom, especially for by the inclusion of Chinese A-shares in the MSCI-EM conclusion of two large IPOs in Kuwait: the Boursa With the slowdown in global growth appearing to the GCC region. For Kuwait specifically, given that the Index, raising the weight of the country in that index. Kuwait IPO and the North Al-Zour one, whereby both stabilize, and with trade tensions easing, the outlook for past two year rally was driven in large part by multiple Meanwhile, European stocks posted decent gains were oversubscribed and to be listed in the official mar- equities in 2020 appears good. The consensus view is benchmark index inclusions, a fresh catalyst may be with the Euro Stoxx 50 up 5 percent q/q partly sup- ket later this year, with the Boursa Kuwait stock already that the US equity rally will moderate but continue to needed to fuel the market beyond the May 2020 MSCI ported by ECB expansionary monetary policy, despite trading on the OTC market. The positive expectation for be positive in 2020. With that said, it is prudent to bear upgrade. Our equities outlook in 2020 is therefore one continued sluggishness in economic growth. GCC mar- Kuwaiti equities was reflected in the record net foreign in mind certain risk factors, first of which is the possibil- of cautious optimism.

Wuhan: A central Romania 2019 Chinese hub for budget deficit transport and breaches EU limit industry BUCHAREST: Romania’s budget deficit ballooned to 4.6 percent of gross domestic product in 2019, WUHAN: The central Chinese city of Wuhan has been Finance Minister Florin Citu said yesterday, breaking locked down after being identified as the epicenter of a the three percent ceiling laid down by the European new SARS-like virus, which has infected 4,515 people and Union. Romania’s liberal government, installed in killed 106 in the country. Here’s what you need to know November of last year, said it had encountered about the city of 11 million people: “unexpected” expenses. It may now run the risk of disciplinary action from Industrial powerhouse Brussels. At a press conference, Citu indicated that Wuhan is the capital city of the province of Hubei, cen- the previous left-wing government’s spending plans tral China’s industrial heartland. It is a huge center of had been to blame for the deficit increase. industry, including iron and steel manufacturing. According “Last year funds allocated to investment ended up to UNESCO, half the world’s long-span bridges and 60 being directed towards salaries and welfare pay- percent of China’s high-speed railways were designed by ments,” Citu said. The previous leftist government Wuhan designers. had projected a deficit of 2.76 percent for 2019, which As a traditional industrial hub it has attracted large A view of the Yangtze River in Wuhan, China’s central Hubei province yesterday amid a deadly virus outbreak experts described as unrealistic even at the time. numbers of migrants seeking work-according to Wuhan’s which began in the city. — AFP The new liberal government was initially expecting mayor Zhou Xianwang, five million of the city’s population the figure to reach 4.4 percent. are migrants. Spending on public sector salaries was up 19 per- to be held in Wuhan in February, before being relocated to passenger vehicle factories and more than 500 automobile cent compared with 2018 whereas public revenue Central China hub because of the virus. parts enterprises. The output value of the automobile and only increased 10.7 percent. Citu said the government The city is a crucial hub in the middle of China. parts industry in Wuhan was around 400 billion yuan ($57 should be able to bring the deficit down to 3.6 per- It is an important transport interchange, with three High-tech industries billion), according to a report in the Changjiang Daily. cent over 2020. “It’s not just a promise of mine that I major rail stations, ferry ports and an airport. It is also a Wuhan has been making inroads into high-tech indus- The city was expected to produce around 1.7 million want to keep, but if we don’t respect this (3.6 percent) key stop for Yangtze river cruises. Several countries have tries. In a report last year, the Milken Institute ranked it vehicles in 2018, it said. target we will lose what I see as the most important consulates in the city, including the US and France-both of China’s ninth best-performing city, up seven places from Several foreign carmakers, including General thing right now, and that is investors’ trust,” Citu said which are working to evacuate their nationals from Wuhan the organization’s previous annual report. Wuhan’s econo- Motors and Renault, manufacture in the city through in a TV interview on Monday evening. due to the virus. my included areas from chip-making to biomedicine and joint ventures. He predicted “a hard fight” ahead to keep to this Around 160 Japanese companies, including in the auto had secured investments from 230 Fortune Global 500 threshold given upcoming local and national elections and electronics industries, have offices in the city, accord- firms, according to the study. The Wuhan East Lake High- Tough guys this year. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and ing to the Japanese Chamber of Commerce in Wuhan. tech Development Zone, also known as “Optics Valley”, It was in Wuhan that an armed rebellion began credit rating agencies have urged the government to It is also a center for sporting and cultural events. The had attracted several high-tech companies, including against the ruling Qing dynasty in 1911, leading to the abandon a 40 percent hike in pensions voted through state Military Games were held there last October, for Xiaomi. It was the city’s first fibre-optic cable production establishment of the Republic of China-which ruled by the previous government and due to take effect in which China built an athletes’ village to host around site, according to state news agency Xinhua. until the Communist Party won power in 1949 and September. According to the independent Fiscal 10,000 participating soldiers, coaches and officials. The declared the People’s Republic of China. For this rea- Council watchdog, the pension hike could mean the city is home of tennis championships including the China Automobile industry son, Wuhan natives have earned a reputation in China deficit going beyond 4.6 percent in 2020. — AFP Open. The Women’s Olympics football qualifiers were due Wuhan has five automobile enterprises, more than 10 for being tough. — AFP

EXCHANGE RATES

Thai Bhat 10.870 Euro 339.520 Chinese Yuan 0.042529 0.046029 AL-MUZAINI EXCHANGE CO. Sterling Pound 402.400 Turkish Lira 51.640 Hong Kong Dollar 0.037056 0.039806 Canadian dollar 233.960 Singapore dollars 225.000 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Turkish lira 52.500 Indian Rupee 0.003676 0.004448 Swiss Franc 317.520 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000018 0.000024 ASIAN COUNTRIES US Dollar Buying 297.050 BAHRAIN EXCHANGE COMPANY WLL Japanese Yen 0.002708 0.002888 Japanese Yen 2.787 Korean Won 0.000248 0.000263 Indian Rupees 4.273 CURRENCY BUY SELL Malaysian Ringgit 0.071012 0.077012 Pakistani Rupees 1.968 DOLLARCO EXCHANGE CO. LTD Nepalese Rupee 0.002626 0.002966 Srilankan Rupees 1.676 EUROPE Nepali Rupees 2.666 Pakistan Rupee 0.001295 0.002065 British Pound 0.390202 0.404102 Philippine Peso 0.005891 0.006191 Singapore Dollar 227.240 Rate for Transfr Selling Rate Hongkong Dollar 39.177 Czech Korune 0.005259 0.014559 Singapore Dollar 0.218769 0.228769 Danish Krone 0.040810 0.045810 Bangladesh Taka 3.546 US Dollar 304.150 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001319 0.001899 Euro 0. 327879 0.341579 Philippine Peso 5.999 Canadian Dollar 231.355 Taiwan 0.009982 0.010162 Thai Baht 10.061 Georgian Lari 0.104759 0.104759 Sterling Pound 398.580 Thai Baht 0.009641 0.010191 Malaysian Ringgit 77.877 Hungarian 0.000903 0.001093 Euro 336.800 Vietnamese Dong 0.00013 0.000013 Norwegian Krone 0.029231 0.034431 Swiss Frank 297.760 GCC COUNTRIES Romanian Leu 0.053190 0.070040 Arab Saudi Riyal 81.254 Bahrain Dinar 808.850 Russian Ruble 0.004826 0.004826 Bahraini Dinar 0.801542 0.809598 Qatari Riyal 83.688 UAE Dirhams 83.210 Slovakia 0.009104 0.019104 ani Riyal 791.423 Qatari Riyals 84.450 Egyptian Pound 0.019098 0.021839 Bahraini Dinar 809.090 Saudi Riyals 82.000 Swedish Krona 0.027571 0.032571 Iranian Riyal 0.000084 0.000086 UAE Dirham 82.959 Jordanian Dinar 430.270 Swiss Franc 0.307051 0.318051 Iraqi Dinar 0.000199 0.000259 Egyptian Pound 19.311 Jordanian Dinar 0.424573 0.433573 ARAB COUNTRIES Sri Lankan Rupees 1.674 Australasia Kuwaiti Dinar 1.000000 1.000000 Egyptian Pound - Cash 21.650 Indian Rupees 4.263 Australian Dollar 0.197460 0.209460 Lebanese Pound 0.000101 0.000251 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 19.304 Pakistani Rupees 1.966 New Zealand Dollar 0.192883 0.202383 Moroccan Dirhams 0.021022 0.045022 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.223 Bangladesh Taka 3.550 Omani Riyal 0.785780 0.793677 Tunisian Dinar 114.040 America Qatar Riyal 0.082983 0.083817 Jordanian Dinar 429.750 Philippines Pesso 5.978 Canadian Dollar 0.225448 0.234448 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 0.203 Cyprus pound 18.095 Saudi Riyal 0.080113 0.081413 Syrian Lira 0.000 Japanese Yen 3.790 US Dollars 0.300400 0.304950 Syrian Pound 0.001291 0.001511 Morocco Dirham 32.359 Syrian Pound 1.590 US Dollars Mint 0.300900 0.304950 Tunisian Dinar 0.103694 0.111694 Nepalese Rupees 2.663 Turkish Lira 0.044755 0.054600 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Malaysian Ringgit 75.450 Asia UAE Dirhams 0.082271 0.083097 US Dollar Transfer 304.500 Chinese Yuan Renminbi 44.270 Bangladesh Taka 0.002917 0.003718 Yemeni Riyal 0.000990 0.001070 Established 1961 13 Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Business US core capital goods orders post largest drop in 8 months Durable goods orders increase 2.4%

WASHINGTON: New orders for key US- spending plans, fell 0.9 percent last month as The government will publish its snapshot of lowed an 8.3 percent drop in November. received only three commercial aircraft orders made capital goods dropped by the most in demand for machinery, primary metals and fourth-quarter GDP tomorrow. Business Orders for defense aircraft and parts soared in December, down from 63 in November. eight months in December and shipments electrical equipment, appliances and compo- investment had been weighed down by steep 168.3 percent last month, offsetting a 74.7 December is normally a strong month for air- were weak, suggesting business investment nents declined. declines in both spending on equipment and percent plunge in demand for civilian aircraft. craft orders. Motor vehicles and parts orders contracted further in the fourth quarter and That was the largest decrease since April. nonresidential structures such as gas and oil Boeing reported on its website that it had fell 0.9 percent in December. — Reuters was a drag on economic growth. Business Data for November was revised lower to well drilling. That has landed manufacturing, spending remains one of the weak spots in the show these so-called core capital goods which accounts for 11 percent of the economy, economy. Housing, the other laggard, is orders edging up 0.1 percent instead of gain- in recession. Capital expenditure has been regaining momentum in response to the ing 0.2 percent as previously reported. undercut by the U.S.-China trade war, which Federal Reserve’s three interest rate cuts last Economists polled by Reuters had forecast has hurt business confidence. year. Officials from the US central bank were core capital goods would be unchanged in Boeing’s biggest assembly-line halt in more scheduled to start a two-day policy meeting December. than 20 years is expected to wreak havoc yesterday. Core capital goods orders rose 0.8 percent with the supply chain. The plane maker’s They are expected to reiterate the Fed’s in 2019. Shipments of core capital goods largest supplier, Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, desire to keep rates unchanged at least decreased 0.4 percent last month. Core capi- announced early this month that it planned to through this year. Weak business investment tal goods shipments are used to calculate lay off more than 20 percent of the workforce and the resulting slump in manufacturing have equipment spending in the government’s at its Wichita, Kansas base. been on the radar of Fed officials who have gross domestic product measurement. They Economists estimate the production sus- blamed trade tensions, especially the White declined by an unrevised 0.3 percent in pension could slice at least half a percentage House’s 18-month trade war with China, and November. point from first-quarter GDP growth. The hit an uncertain global economic growth outlook US stock index futures were trading higher to GDP growth would come from a smaller for the malaise. and the dollar rose against a basket of curren- inventory build. Though airlines have contin- Though tensions have eased with the sign- cies. Prices of US Treasuries fell. ued to submit orders there have been no ing this month of a “Phase 1” trade deal deliveries, leading to a rise in inventories at between Washington and Beijing, Boeing con- Manufacturing slump factories. In December, overall orders for tinues to loom over manufacturing. Boeing this Business investment has contracted for two durable goods, items ranging from toasters to month suspended production of its troubled straight quarters and likely remained in the aircraft that are meant to last three years or 737 MAX jetliner, which was grounded last red in the fourth quarter, subtracting from more, rebounded 2.4 percent after tumbling March following two fatal crashes. The GDP growth. The Fed is forecasting 3.1 percent in the prior month. : Boeing employees and guests welcome a Boeing 777X airplane Commerce Department said yesterday orders GDP to rise at a 1.8 percent annualized rate in They were boosted by a 7.6 percent surge returning from its inaugural flight at Boeing Field in Seattle, Washington for non-defense capital goods excluding air- the fourth quarter. The economy grew at a 2.1 in orders for transportation equipment, the on Monday. — AFP craft, a closely watched proxy for business percent rate in the July-September period. largest increase since August 2018, which fol-

The euro/Swiss franc cross, a pair highly Wall St on track correlated to risk sentiment, touched 1.0666 francs per euro, the lowest since April 2017, before recovering to 1.0690. It has fallen 1.6 to recover after percent so far in January and is on track for its biggest monthly drop since April 2019. Kenyan GDP turbulent Monday Global stock markets and oil prices have tumbled in recent days on fears the virus could NEW YORK: US. stock indexes were on track further damage China’s already weakened econ- expected to to recover yesterday after the S&P 500 suf- omy, an engine of world growth. That also fered its worst day in nearly four months in the briefly inverted the US Treasury yield curve, grow 6.2% previous session on fears that a coronavirus considered a fairly reliable recession predictor. outbreak could hit global economic growth. But larger moves were subdued, with the US Markets across the world stabilized as the dollar adding to previous gains ahead of the in 2020: CB head of the World Health Organization (WHO) start of a two-day US Federal Reserve meeting said he was confident in China’s ability to con- later yesterday. NAIROBI: Kenya’s economy is tain the virus outbreak, which has killed 106 forecast to grow 6.2 percent this people, prompted businesses to close opera- year, up from 5.7 percent last year, tions and curbed travel. “Some of the com- central bank governor Patrick The Brazilian Congress in Brasilia. Lawmakers in will consider in ments coming out of the WHO and other med- Njoroge said yesterday, as regional 2020 various proposals to simplify one of the world’s most complicated ical advisers are helping markets catch a trade shields Kenya from the effects and time-consuming tax regimes. — AFP breath after yesterday’s decline which was of a global downturn. somewhat overdone,” said Peter Cardillo, chief The bank expects recovering market economist at Spartan Capital Securities agriculture, medium and small in New York. businesses and robust private-sec- Brazil businesses hope for Investors will keep a close watch on Apple tor credit growth to support that Inc results, due after markets close amid con- growth. “We will end up with 6.2 cerns of a disruption in iPhone production as simpler tax system in 2020 percent,” Njoroge told a news the coronavirus spreads across major markets conference. SAO PAULO: Alex Serodio struggles to 5,570 municipalities, depending on the like China. Kenya is East Africa’s richest find enough superlatives to describe product or service and jurisdiction. “It’s Its shares were up 1.2 percent in premarket economy and is enjoying an Brazil’s cumbersome tax system. “I think totally irrational,” a vexed Flavio Rocha, trading after falling about 3 percent on Monday extended rainy season after sever- rocket science might be easier,” quips the chief executive of retail giant Riachuelo, amid a broad-based pullback in US stocks. US al years of drought. The govern- online beauty products retailer in Sao tells AFP. industrial giant 3M Co slid 1.8 percent after it ment also lifted caps on bank lend- Paulo. That could change this year, as “A big industry in Brazil is the tax fight forecast 2020 profit below expectations as it NEW YORK: Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on Monday in New ing rates last year, which had lawmakers consider various proposals to industry.” In the northeastern state of faced sluggish demand in Asia. Earnings are York City. — AFP inhibited loans to private business. simplify one of the world’s most compli- Maranhao, for example, 12 different tax now expected to show a decline of 0.5 percent Kenya’s trade with other African cated and time-consuming tax regimes. rates apply to milk depending on its fat for the fourth quarter, according to Refinitiv countries “has a stabilizing effect. President Jair Bolsonaro, who came to content and the animal it came from, data. Of the 87 companies that have reported Against a basket of currencies, the dollar It offers a sense of security,” power in January 2019 on a promise to according to Sao Paulo-based Endeavor, though Monday, 67.8 percent have topped rose 0.1 percent to 98.01, its highest since early Njoroge said. On Monday, the slash red-tape for businesses, has made which assists startups. expectations, below the 74 percent rate from December and taking its gains so far this month central bank cut the benchmark tax reform a priority this year. It is an “It is a system that is old, onerous, the past four quarters. to 1.7 percent. It remains unfazed by signs that lending rate for the second meet- ambitious goal that previous govern- very expensive and complex for compa- Pfizer Inc fell 2 percent after posting a lower- money markets are pricing a US Federal ing in a row, to 8.25 percent from ments have failed to achieve. While tax nies,” says Monica Bendia, a tax special- than-expected quarterly profit on disappointing Reserve interest-rate cut later this year and 8.50 percent. It said the economy cuts are not an option for the cash- ist at UHY Bendoraytes, an auditing firm sales of breast cancer drug. The Fed officials will possibly even a second. was operating below potential and strapped country, modernizing the sys- in Rio de Janeiro. gather for the first policy meeting of the year on Versus the euro, it firmed 0.14 percent to an it saw room for a more accom- tem is seen as key to spurring economic Tuesday, and markets do not expect the central eight-week high of $1.100 modative monetary policy. growth, boosting foreign investment and Winners and losers bank to change its benchmark overnight lending Fed policymakers are largely expected to The finance ministry said earlier enabling the private sector to flourish. Several proposals for streamlining the rate at the end of the meeting today. reiterate that interest rates will remain on hold this month economic growth proba- “It’s really, really, really, really, really system for taxing goods and services are Shares in Harley-Davidson Inc tumbled 5.9 this year. bly slowed to 5.6 percent last year, complex,” says Serodio, whose company on the table. Two plans in Congress percent after the company reported a larger- “The market is taking a step back from the from 6.3 percent a year earlier, Beleza na Web, or Beauty on the Web, propose combining several municipal, than-expected decline in its motorcycles rev- selloff earlier due to the virus concerns though compared with government’s initial employs a team of accountants and state and federal taxes into a value- enue. Shares in Xerox Holdings Corp, known for the dollar is unlikely to weaken substantially as estimate of about 6 percent. lawyers to navigate the labyrinthine tax added levy. They also push for a selective its photocopiers and printers, jumped 4.6 per- there is safe-haven demand for the greenback,” The ministry forecasts growth of rules that are constantly changing. “This tax on goods such as alcohol and ciga- cent after it reported 2020 profit above Wall said Morten Lund, a senior FX strategist at 6.1 percent this year, rising to 7 per- is why you don’t have many (foreign) rettes. The chance of getting one of the Street expectations. Concerns about the eco- Nordea. The Australian and New Zealand dol- cent per annum in the medium term. retailers in Brazil... it’s too complicated.” proposals through the lower and upper nomic fallout from the coronavirus outbreak in lars, both highly geared to China, shed 0.2 per- But concern has been growing over An average of 31 tax rules are introduced houses seems higher than in the past, China supported safe-haven currencies yester- cent and 0.1 percent respectively. Stability in the increasing public debt. Hundreds of or amended every day, according to the experts say. day with the dollar index approaching a two- offshore yuan, after a recent drop, provided mismanaged infrastructure projects Brazilian Institute of Planning and Some taxes are included in the month high and the Swiss franc holding near the some calm to nervous currency markets. The have stalled and it will cost around Taxation, making compliance almost Constitution and changes to those have highest in almost three years. Chinese currency firmed 0.2 percent versus the $10 billion to revive them, the impossible for many companies. to be approved by 60 percent of law- “Uncertainty on the virus news front is the dollar, rising off three-week lows. At a time International Monetary Fund said “It’s so complex that we spend a lot of makers in both houses. “We have a fed- name of the game in the markets and markets when mainland markets are shut, the offshore this month. — Reuters our decision-making time on this and not eral district, 26 states and more than don’t like uncertainty,” said Lee Hardman, a cur- yuan has weakened more than 2 percent in less how to add more value to consumers,” 5,500 municipalities and each of them rency strategist at MUFG in London. than a week. — Reuters Serodio adds. has a tax authority,” says Linneu de He is not alone. A medium-sized com- Albuquerque Mello, a tax lawyer in Rio pany in Brazil spends more than 1,500 de Janeiro. “When you talk about over- leave enough time to secure a comprehen- Failure to reach an agreement by the hours a year preparing and paying taxes, hauling the tax system because it’s not German industry sive free trade agreement, he said, as such a end of the transition could deliver a according to the World Bank’s latest efficient, if you change anything, some- deal touches on areas that would need rati- chaotic or hard Brexit, throwing up legal Doing Business report. one will lose and someone will gain.” fication from all 27 national parliaments in barriers to trade and travel overnight and It ranked Brazil among the 10 worst The government’s success in winning bloc says hard the bloc and some regional parliaments. halting the cross-border flow of every- countries for paying taxes-only slightly congressional support for its pension “It’s impossible to complete such a proj- thing from nuclear isotopes used in medi- better than the Congo and Venezuela. overhaul last year-something previous Brexit risk remains ect by the end of the year,” he told cine to car parts. That compares with 175 hours in the administrations had also failed to do-has reporters in . By the end of the year, the EU and United States and 114 hours in Britain. raised hopes for the possibility of tax BERLIN: The risk of a disorderly Brexit will Since negotiators on both sides would Britain could only aim for a basic trade “I often joke that even when we sleep, reform. “We have a very special remain even after Britain leaves the European need significantly more time to reach a agreement on matters that lie within the we’re paying taxes,” Gabriel Kanner of moment to do this, so it would be terrible Union (EU) this week, Germany’s powerful comprehensive trade agreement it was a bloc’s sole responsibility, Lang said, but Brasil 200, a business lobby group, told if we lost this opportunity because we BDI industry association said yeterday, urg- “grave mistake” on Britain’s part to rule out such a deal would exclude tariffs and local media recently. Brazil has 63 differ- don’t know when we will have another ing both sides to aim for a basic trade agree- extending the transition period, Lang quotas. The German industry group also ent taxes, including multiple levies on one,” says Marina Thiago of Endeavor. ment by the end of the year. warned. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, urged the EU and its 27 member states to goods and services. These consumption Serodio does not favor a particular BDI Managing Director Joachim Lang elected on a promise to “Get Brexit Done”, remain strong and united in negotiations taxes, which unfairly hurt the poor and proposal. He just wants lawmakers to said there were no reasons to sound the all- has ruled out extending the transition and is with Britain. “The EU must leave no are a nightmare for businesses to calcu- make the system “very simple.” “Do that clear now that Britain’s departure will be in the process of making it illegal to do so, doubt: If you want to deviate from EU late, are in the cross-hairs of lawmakers. and we are going to be able to get more governed by a formal withdrawal agreement, leaving only 11 months to seal a deal rules, you will not get the best access to Their rates can vary wildly across traction and pay more than we pay since the transition period agreed only lasts between the world’s fifth biggest economy the largest single market in the world,” Brazil’s federal district, 26 states and today,” he says. — AFP until the end of the year. That would not and its largest trade bloc. Lang said. — Reuters 14 Established 1961 Business Wednesday, January 29, 2020 NBK wins ‘Best Customer Service Bank’, ‘Best CSR Program’ excellence awards Recognition by Kuwait’s Public Relations Association

KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) was the mass media penetration and the introduction of awarded with the Excellence in the Corporate Social digitalized services, Al-Othman added. Responsibility Programs and also received the Best Kuwait Public Relations and Customer Service Prize Customer Service Bank Excellence Award in Kuwait by is gaining momentum due to compliance with the global Kuwait’s Public Relations Association during the con- standards, assessed by international experts, said Al- clusion ceremony of the Kuwait Public Relations and Othman, adding that these trophies encourage compa- Customer Service Prize. nies and other institutions to maintain their leadership The event was been held at Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural and pursue their development plans. “NBK boasts its Center (JACC) under the patronage of His Highness the track-record of social initiatives; these prizes encour- Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. The age us to proceed with our efforts to develop these ini- awarding ceremony witnessed the attendance of the tiatives and serve the society,” NBK Public Relations Minister of Social Affairs Ghadeer Aseeri, and Head of and Communications Assistant General Manager, Kuwait’s Public Relations Association Jamal Al- Manal Faisal Al-Mattar, said. Nasrullah. Throughout the year, NBK has sponsored several “These two excellence awards represent a testimony useful social programs in fields of healthcare, childcare, of NBK’s leading position as the largest and the most social development, environment, sports, in addition to prominent financial entity in Kuwait, which was com- awareness campaigns, which boosted its leading posi- mitted to launching an array of services, initiatives, and tion as the top contributor to the social responsibility products for both customers and the whole society,” programs in Kuwait and the sustainable development in stated Mohammed Al-Othman, General Manager of light of Kuwait’s development plan, Al-Mattar noted. Consumer Banking Group, NBK. NBK recorded a robust performance in terms of sus- In addition, the best customer service award is tainability in an array of services, and initiatives in sev- recognition of NBK’s keenness to exceed its customers’ eral fields including environment, healthcare, society expectations by offering his clients highly competitive and education. achievements of companies and organizations in the event also featured a number of workshops about the services and banking products, and through fulfilling Kuwait’s Public Relations Association dedicates this fields of public relations and customer service across strategies of PR and customer service targeted at the top-notch and most modern requirements including prize to shed light on the distinguished efforts and all industries in both public and private sectors. The employees of ministries and organizations.

Bank intends that BLME will continue to rate of 22 percent while customers’ deposits Middle East in May 2018 and the fleet Boubyan Bank operate as a standalone group within the increased by 17 percent, to reach KD 4.3 bil- Jazeera Airways has since logged more than 6,000 flight wider Boubyan Bank business. lion and the financing portfolio increased to hours. The airline also operates nine On 5 December, Boubyan Bank announced KD 3.7 billion with a growth rate of 14 per- CFM56-5B-powered A320ceo aircraft announces that it had reached agreement with the inde- cent in addition to the continuous growth of signs LEAP-1A “The LEAP engine is a real asset to pendent directors of BLME on the terms of a the bank’s customers’ base. our daily operations in harsh environ- successful recommended all cash offer by Boubyan Bank The total equity of the bank increased to engine services ments and we look forward to introduc- to acquire the shares of BLME KD 575 million by the end of 2019 ing more of these engines in the coming offer for BLME (other than the BLME shares and the operating income agreement months”, said Rohit Ramachandran, CEO already held by Boubyan Bank increased to KD 146 million. The of Jazeera Airways. “We have been really (or its associates) and BLME market share in financing happy with the reliability and the best-in- KUWAIT: Boubyan Bank is pleased to shares held in treasury). BLME increased to approximately 9.3 KUWAIT: Jazeera Airways signed a class support provided by CFM over the announce that, as at 27 January 2020 (being is a UK public limited compa- percent, while Boubyan Bank’s long-term Rate Per Flight Hours (RPFH) years, so we are delighted to expand our the first closing date for acceptances of the ny listed on Nasdaq Dubai and share of the retail finance agreement with CFM relationship through this new offer), Boubyan Bank had received valid the direct holding company of increased to approximately 12 International to support the agreement.” acceptances in respect of a total of The Bank of London and the percent. Besides, the bank record- LEAP-1A engines that power “We are very proud of the 73,263,270 BLME shares (representing Middle East plc, which pro- ed outstanding growth in the cor- the airline’s fleet of Airbus trust Jazeera has placed in approximately 39.52 per cent. of the issued vides Sharia compliant finan- porate credit portfolio which grew A320neo aircraft. The agree- CFM products,” said Gael ordinary share capital of BLME, excluding cial services to its customers. by 17 percent. This was achieved ment, which is valued at $1.3 Meheust, president and CEO BLME shares held in treasury), which, when Boubyan Bank has been a by attracting a number of opera- billion, covers a minimum of of CFM International. “And we taken together with Boubyan Group’s existing long-term shareholder of Abdul-Salam Al-Saleh tional companies known for their 20 aircraft and five spare welcome the responsibility shareholdings in BLME, represent approxi- BLME. On 20 December 2019, financial and economic creditwor- engines, with the option of that comes with that trust to mately 67.44 per cent. of the issued ordinary Boubyan Bank published an thiness while continuing to main- including additional aircraft support Jazeera’s operations share capital of BLME (excluding BLME offer document setting out the full terms and tain the highest standards of credit quality, as Jazeera Airways continues and to ensure a smooth intro- shares held in treasury). conditions of the offer. monitoring and diversifying risks. to expand its fleet. Rohit duction of the new LEAP-1A On 27 January 2020, Boubyan Bank Under the terms of the offer, BLME share- Furthermore, Boubyan Bank has made a RPFH agreements are part Ramachandran engines into its fleet.” announced that all conditions to the offer holders are entitled to receive US$1.05 per new achievement in 2019, adding to its other of CFM’s portfolio of flexible CFM International’s were either satisfied or waived and the offer BLME share. Moreover, Boubyan Bank had successes, when Standard & Poor’s Global aftermarket support pack- advanced LEAP-1A engine con- became unconditional both as to acceptances received irrevocable undertakings from cer- rating agency confirmed its Long-Term ages. Under the terms of the agreement, tinues to set a new industry standard for and in all respects with effect from such date. tain BLME directors and BLME shareholders Issuer Credit Rating at “A/Stable”, thereby CFM Services guarantees maintenance fuel efficiency and asset utilization as the The offer will remain open for acceptances to accept the offer in respect of approximate- ranking the Bank as the second highest credit costs for Jazeera’s LEAP-1A engines on fleet continues the most rapid buildup in until 1.00 p.m. (London time) on 19 February ly 13.21 per cent. of the issued ordinary share rating among local banks. a dollar per engine-flight-hour basis. commercial aviation history, logging 2020 or such later time(s) or date(s) as capital of BLME (excluding BLME shares S&P’s rationale for the rating noted Jazeera Airways became the first LEAP- more than five million engine flight hours Boubyan Bank may determine, subject to the held in treasury) as at 4 December 2019. Boubyan Bank as the fifth largest bank in 1A-powered A320neo operator in the through December. consent of the Panel on Takeovers and Recently, Boubyan Bank has reported net Kuwait, with a solid retail franchise, good Mergers of the UK and the Dubai Financial profit of KD 62.7 million in 2019, at a growth market position, strong capitalization as well Services Authority, where required. rate of 12 percent compared to 2018, with an as exhibiting good profitability. Commenting on the successful offer, earnings per share of 20.4 fils compared to During the past year, Boubyan Bank man- Abdul-Salam Al-Saleh, Deputy Chief 19.2 fils in 2018. aged to maintain its technological leadership Executive Officer of Boubyan Bank, said: “As Boubyan Bank’s acquisition of BLME coin- by receiving the World’s Best Islamic Digital one of the market leading and fastest growing cides with the Bank’s 15th anniversary cele- Bank Award for the fifth year in a row from Kuwaiti based banks we have an increasing bration, and the 10th anniversary of its trans- Global Finance. number of GCC clients who seek access to formation which brought a lot of achieve- For the first time in Kuwait, two interna- Sharia compliant UK wealth management ments and successes, the most important of tional institutions, namely, Global Finance and opportunities. We believe that by consolidat- which is increasing the Bank’s shares in the the Banker, named Boubyan Bank the Best ing our longstanding shareholding position in Kuwaiti market. Islamic Bank in Kuwait in 2019 due to its BLME we can further develop its business All of the Bank’s main indicators witnessed accomplishments across various financial and drive the growth of both businesses.” a remarkable growth in 2019 where the total indicators and the growth of its market Following completion of the offer, Boubyan assets increased to KD 5.3 billion at a growth shares.

Update on primary Issuances in MENA rate of 4.23 percent 3.88 percent NBK Capital Fixed-income MENA Markets Report MENA entities borrowed a total amount • Sharjah government issued a 10-year of $18.2 billion in Q4. The financial sector Saudi Arabia: $750 million sukuk with a profit rate of 3.23 ening by 18bps on average in the fourth dominated primary deals representing • The Saudi Arabian government bor- percent $111bn in total quarter. The equivalent spread declined by a around 65 percent of total volume while rowed $2.5 billion with a 10-year sukuk • Majid Al-Futtaim Properties borrowed larger amount for sub-investment grade governments contributed to 35 percent. deal. The issuance has a profit rate of 2.97 $600 million with an 11-year sukuk deal. The countries: CDS of Bahrain and Oman Overall, total issuances in the 2019 reached a percent issuance has a profit rate of 3.93 percent debt issuances dropped by 60 and 90bps respectively dur- record level of $111.2 billion, an increase of • Dar Al-Arkan issued a 6-year $600 mil- • Dubai Islamic Bank raised $750 million ing the same period. The risk premium of all 17.6 percent when compared to 2018. lion sukuk with a profit rate of 6.75 percent in a 6-year Sukuk with a profit rate of 2.95 in 2019, record GCC countries declined in 2019 as perceived Issuances were met with a strong demand • Arabian Centers borrowed $500 million percent risk in the region receded. from a growing investor base and performed in a debut 5-year sukuk with a profit rate of GCC inclusion in the JP Morgan Emerging relatively well in the secondary market. 5.38 percent Other issuances: growth of 17.6% Market Bond Index was arguably the larger • Masraf Al-Rayan borrowed $500 in a catalyst for regional fixed-income perform- Issuances in Q4 United Arab Emirates 5-year Sukuk deal. The issuance has a profit KUWAIT: Global fixed-income markets ance in 2019. The inclusion of the sovereign Kuwait: • The Abu Dhabi Government owned rate of 3.02 percent continued their positive momentum in the last debt of five GCC countries attracted new • NBK launched a $750 million AT1 per- Mubadala raised $3.5 billion in a three- • The Egyptian government raised $2 bil- quarter of 2019 as a coordinated global tight- inflows and improved the liquidity of regional petual bond with a coupon rate of 4.50 tranche bond transaction with maturities 5, lion in a 3-tranche deal, with maturities at ening policy from major Central Banks creat- debt market. Regional fixed-income markets percent 10, and 30 years. Another Abu Dhabi relat- 2023, 2032 and 2059. The deals have coupon ed a positive backdrop for the asset class. As performed in line with their global peers dur- • KIPCO borrowed $500 million in 7- ed entity, Aldar, borrowed $500 million in a rates of 4.55 percent, 7.05 percent and 8.15 anticipated, the US Federal Reserve cut its ing the year. year senior bond issuance with a coupon 10-year Sukuk deal with a profit rate of percent, respectively. policy rate by 25 basis points (bps) during the meeting in October. This has brought the total number of cuts for the year to three, and low- ered the policy rate by 75bps, to a range of 1.50 percent - 1.75 percent. The reference yield on 10-year US treas- ury treasuries closed the quarter at 1.92 per- cent, up 25bps as risks around the US-China trade conflict receded following the announcement of the Phase 1 trade deal. The deal is expected to result in the cancellation of previously scheduled tariffs. Notwithstanding the yield rise in Q4, the ref- erence yield on the 10-year US treasuries closed 77bps lower on a year-to-date basis. In the fourth quarter of 2019, all central banks in the GCC reduced their policy rates by 25bp, following the Federal Reserve’s steps. Investment grade sovereign issuers in MENA saw their 5-years risk premium tight- Established 1961 15

Wednesday, January 29, 2020 What’s On

AUB recognizes employees during 2019 annual gala

n recognition of the exceptional efforts and active role in the development and advancement of the admirable performance of various employees across bank at all levels. She commended AUB results in 2019, Iall sectors, Ahli United Bank (AUB) held its annual prestigious international awards, significant achieve- 2019 Staff Annual Event with the attendance of a group ments, developments and improvements that the bank of senior executive management members and many of is witnessing year after year. She affirmed that the the bank’s employees. bank’s support through its services to individuals and AUB holds this gala annually to reflect the commit- corporations in Kuwait have a positive impact on the ment of its top management to supporting and encour- national economy, which is as significant as AUB’s aging all employees. In addition, this ceremony pro- financial results. vides an opportunity to express gratitude and appreci- Amgad Younes, Finance Senior General Manager at ation to the employees’ vital roles, while honoring dis- AUB, pointed out the positive results achieved by the tinguished ones and noting their tangible contribution bank during the first nine months of 2019 that exceeded in attaining success. the results of the same period of 2018. He expressed The event included distribution of certificates and gratitude and appreciation to all employees for their souvenirs of appreciation to long-serving employees for dedication and vital role in attaining more achievements their continuous efforts, commitment and dedication. and excellence in various areas to advance the valued Their contribution became a source of inspiration for standing of AUB as one of the Islamic banking institu- many of the employees who joined the bank at later tions that gained the respect of many local and interna- stages. In addition, recognition was extended to tional organizations. employees and departments that received prestigious Naqeeb Amin, HR General Manager at AUB, international awards or achieved excellence in various emphasized that this annual gala is a translation of the areas during 2019, as well as the service stars from family spirit among the bank’s employees, which clear- branches, Haykom tele-banking and other employees ly proves that AUB is a model for a unique work envi- who have direct engagement with customers. ronment through its ability to retain many distin- The celebration, which was held at Arraya Ballroom guished and highly skilled employees, who are consid- in Kuwait, commenced with recitation of the Holy ered the true wealth of the bank, for more than twenty Quran, followed by many events and competitions. years while maintaining top performance and achiev- Jehad Al-Humaidhi, Acting CEO of AUB, expressed ing more success. overall pride towards all employees at the bank, wish- Mariam Al-Mudhaf, HR Assistant General Manager ing everyone continuous success and achievements in at AUB, said: “This is not only a celebration, it is also a all sectors. way to appreciate the impact, excellence and dedication Al-Humaidhi lauded the remarkable performance of of our employees to encourage them to achieve more, as the honored employees and departments for their well as increase their sense of belonging and loyalty.

ICSK Khaitan Gulf Bank celebrates National blesses Class XII Day with limited edition prepaid with Aashirvaad card free for first year n celebration of the upcoming Starting this week and while quantities ceremony National Day holidays, Gulf Bank last, the new prepaid card will be avail- Ihas released an exclusive, limited able to all Gulf Bank customers. We are edition prepaid card. The new prepaid delighted to be celebrating our national spectacular blessing ceremony, card, whose design features the Kuwaiti holiday and are wishing our beloved Aashirvaad 2020, was held on flag, is available just in time for Kuwait’s Kuwait peace and prosperity.” ATuesday, 21st January, 2020 at The National & Liberation Day holidays. The limited edition prepaid card is a Indian Community School, Kuwait, Khaitan This exclusive Prepaid Card design reloadable card that offers cardholders branch. The ceremony was conducted to which can be requested today, will be a variety of exclusive benefits, includ- bless the Class XII outgoing students of available while supplies last. Gulf Bank ing being free for the first year and Science and Commerce of ICSK, Khaitan. customers can request the new prepaid valid for 3 years. Cardholders can also The function commenced with the recita- card through Gulf Bank’s online bank- avail instant discounts of up to 20% at tion of the verses from the Holy Quran. This ing or mobile banking services, or by over 500 local restaurants and dis- was followed by the national anthems of visiting their nearest branch. counts of up to 25% at over 300 retail Kuwait and India. The auspicious lighting of Commenting on the new prepaid outlets in Kuwait. As with all Gulf Bank the ceremonial lamp was done by Karthik card design, Ahmad Al Amir, Assistant prepaid cards, the new limited edition Unnithan, the Chief Guest, followed by S.N. General Manager of Corporate card is reloadable, and offers users Raju Hon. Treasurer, ICSK Board of Trustees, Communications at Gulf Bank, said: faster payments on service-enabled Agnello Fernandes, Hon. Jt. Secretary, K. G. “With February just around the corner, POS terminals with Gulf Bank Tap & Shirsath, Principal, ICSK, Khaitan, Dr V. we are very excited to announce Gulf Pay, enhanced security, safety and con- Binumon, Principal and Senior Administrator, Bank’s latest surprise of the year. In venience with EMV chip technology, ICSK Senior, Ravi Ayanoli, Principal, FAIPS, celebration of the upcoming national and global acceptance at more than Dr. Sam T. Kuruvilla, VP, ICSK, Khaitan and holidays, Gulf Bank has introduced a two million ATMs and 33 million point- Mrs C. Sheeja, VP, ICSK, Junior. new and exclusive prepaid card which of-sale terminals worldwide. The new Thereafter, the students of Class XI who self-created. One must make an effort to Chander, Class teachers of XII A and XII B features a limited edition design high- card is available for both Gulf Bank were the hosts of the day to bid farewell to overcome the stress. He advised the students respectively gave valedictory messages. They lighting our beloved Kuwaiti flag. customers. their Seniors, sang a touching Welcome Song to avoid junk food. He further said that stu- advised the students to keep working hard - Sundaram Manu Bhavanam. dents must practice and revise to achieve and wished them the best for the examina- K. G. Shirsath, Principal ICSK, Khaitan perfection for the examinations. tion. It was followed by a group song by stu- delivered the welcome address. He mentioned The students of class XII sang an inspi- dents of class XII. that the school had high expectations from rational medley. It was followed by reminis- Master Chetan Jithesh, President of the the outgoing batch and would look forward cences by Class XII Valedictorians, Ms. School Senate, proposed the Vote of thanks. to their achievements in the future. He added Aysha Wafiyath and Ms. Alpha Susan. The He lauded the combined efforts of everyone that they should be the ambassadors of ICSK students recalled their time at school with to help the students in facing a new brave Khaitan. He blessed the students for their nostalgia. It was followed by a dance - world. The exhortation from the students was CBSE exams. Agnello Fernandes, Hon. Jt. Rhythmic Movement - by students of class elicited by the Vice Principal Dr. Sam T. Secretary, BOT gave the Presidential address. XI. Manoj P. Kuriakose, parent of a class Kuruvilla. After this emotional event, the stu- He said that school was the first step to XII student, thanked the school for all the dents passed through the corridor of bless- preparing the students for the life and career efforts made to groom the personalities of ings formed by the Principal, all the staff and ahead. He urged the students to follow their the students. parents with lit candles. The students were hearts and chase their dreams. Next, the students of class XII were pre- blessed by everyone present with the school The Chief Guest, Karthik Unnithan, sented mementoes. The students were choir singing Showers of Blessings. The Psychologist and Motivational speaker was accompanied by their parents to receive the solemn function came to an end with a sump- felicitated. In his address he said that stress is same. Vasanthi Suresh and Manish Ramesh tuous dinner for all present. 16 Health & Science Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Asian nations try to shield against deadly outbreak MANILA: Asian nations were ramping up defenses ing people’s movements, and both Malaysia and the against a deadly viral epidemic yesterday, sealing borders, Philippines have taken steps to squelch the flow of Chinese shuttering public places and clamping down on visitors visitors. Manila has been issuing visas on arrival since from China. Concern over the steadily expanding conta- 2017 to Chinese nationals, adding fuel to the boom in gion, which has killed over 100 in China and sickened more mainland visitors to the Philippines. That policy is now than 4,500, is prompting an increasingly urgent push for suspended, though Chinese can still apply for a visa at a protection. consulate or embassy in their home nation. Hong Kong, which has eight reported cases of the SARS-like disease, announced the sealing of six of its 14 ‘Avoid people gathering’ border crossings to the mainland from Thursday. The gov- “We are taking this proactive measure to slow down ernment in the semi-autonomous Chinese city of seven travel, and possibly help prevent the entry (of the virus),” million had faced criticism for merely barring people from said Jaime Morente, immigration commissioner in the the outbreak’s ground-zero, central Hubei province. “The Philippines, which has no confirmed cases. Thailand epidemic has spread to many Chinese provinces. Only announced that all passengers flying in from Chinese air- blocking visitors from Hubei can’t do much to help Hong ports are undergoing screening, as the number of con- Kong,” lawmaker Helena Wong said. firmed infections hit 14 yesterday — the highest outside of Singapore, with seven confirmed cases of the virus, has China. The outbreak is sending shock waves through Asia’s announced it will ban visitors who have travelled to Hubei tourism industry, which has become increasingly reliant on as well as those with passports issued in that Chinese growing numbers of Chinese visitors. The measures come province. Government official Lawrence Wong said the amid a boom in Chinese foreign travel, with the number of travel restrictions were not taken lightly and will be tourists from the country increasing nearly tenfold since expanded if necessary. Officials said efforts are also 2003, according to a report by research firm Capital underway to track down an estimated 2,000 people Economics. already in Singapore with a Hubei travel history for poten- China has already imposed wide-ranging travel restric- tial quarantine. tions across the country and halted international tours, but Mongolia has taken a much more line, closing its yesterday called for all overseas travel to be postponed. entire border with China to pedestrians and cars as well as Authorities have also cracked down on public places ordering schools to close. It has no reported cases. In where the disease could spread, with Mongolia barring Russia’s Far-Eastern district, which shares some 4,500 events like conferences or sporting competitions. From kilometers (2,800 miles) of frontier with China, crossings today, Hong Kong public facilities ranging from pools and that should have re-opened after Chinese New Year will sports centers to museums will all be closed. Authorities Chinese tourists, wearing protective face masks, listen to their guide during a group tour visit at the Taj stay closed for days or weeks. say the restrictions have one primary purpose: “avoid peo- Mahal in Agra yesterday. — AFP Corralling the disease has become an effort at contain- ple gathering.” — AFP 17

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

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Stars Wednesday, January 29 , 2020

CROSSWORD 2422 STAR TRACK

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

You may find this to be one of those days you are in true admiration of A desire for the unusual seems to overcome you today. A desire to broaden the beauty that surrounds you. You may see beauty in everything and everyone you your horizons and experience more of what this world has to offer you. The in and outs encounter today. This brings a sense of peace and harmony into your world and you of your regular world seem to have you bored and unsatisfied. Planning a trip or plan- may find this to be a delightful day. Be careful not to overspend today because this ning an outing with friends will satisfy your needs. Spend time with friends from differ- mood tends to make you want to bring home every beautiful treasure you find. Not the ent cultures and religions. A new outlook on the same day-to-day issues will be enlight- best day for a trip to the mall. You will want everything you see! Take a stroll in the ening. Your eccentric ways could bring a new outlook into their lives as well. Spend park and enjoy the beauty of the nature that surrounds you. This will keep your money some time learning to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you. in your wallet and a sense of peace in your heart.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Scorpio (O ctober 23-November 21) It seems the more independent you become the more you face conflict After much thought and reflection you may come to realize how much with those close to you. This is a time you may be trying too hard to be different. This you truly appreciate where you are in life. Through many challenging situations, and could be met with disapproval from your peers. Not everyone is fond of the changes past you may not be very proud of, you have successfully been able to turn the stum- they see you making. This could cause a great deal of pressure in your life. You well bling blocks you have encountered into stepping-stones. Seeing others go through know when making decisions under pressure you seem to freeze and never seem to do some of the same hard times you have draws you to them and gives you a desire to the right thing. Take your time. Relax and wait until some of the stress passes. Save the reach out and help. You may feel especially kind to a close friend in need. This is a per- decision making for later. These issues are not matters of life and death. son you are led to take under your wing. You may find this person looks up to you. Your kind words will have more of an impact than you can ever imagine.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Communication is important. When it is put in writing, what you thought was a compliment could be interpreted as criticism. Something you It may seem if your sexual needs are coming to mind quite frequently. thought was completely innocent or innocuous may be seen as derogatory. ACROSS DOWN Misunderstandings that are in writing are difficult to overcome. They can result in a life- 1. Voluntary contributions to aid the poor. 1. Weapons considered collectively. You crave power and control. The great mysteries of life and death seem are subjects you find intriguing. This is a time you long to mend fences and let by gones be by time of hard feelings. Be thoughtful about what you put on social media. Consider the 5. Walk or tramp about. 2. A light springing movement upwards or possible reactions before you send a text, a tweet, or an email. 12. Being five more than one hundred fifty. forwards. gones. This is a time you crave peace and lasting friendships. 15. An investment trust that owns and man- 3. Little known Kamarupan languages. ages a pool of commercial properties 4. Standing posture. and mortgages and other real estate ass- 5. Indicator consisting of a line at the high- sets. water or low-water limits of the tides. Capricorn (December 22-January 19) 16. To the degree or extent. 6. A radioactive gaseous element formed by Cancer (June 21-July 22) 17. A unit of length of thread or yarn. the disintegration of radium. 18. A sudden short attack. 7. Inquire about. It you could snap your fingers and disappear that is just what you would This may be a great day to enjoy a good book or catch a movie. An escape 20. A kind of danceable music popular 8. A member of the Siouan people formerly do today. You need an escape from reality. Always being responsible is starting to wear from reality may be just what you need. This could clear your mind and leave you feel- among black South Africans. living in Iowa and Minnesota and you down. You work hard and never take any time for yourself. A massage, a good ing refreshed and rejuvenated. You feel your most secure when surrounded by friends. 21. A river in north central Switzerland that Missouri. book, even a night out at a quiet restaurant would be a welcome break for you. You You may be feeling a real need for a change in your life. You may feel as if you want to runs northeast into the Rhine. 9. 100 pfennigs equal 1 Deutsche Mark. work hard and need to always remember to take a break. Take to reward yourself for throw out the old and bring in the new. You have had this on your mind for a while and 22. (British) A copse that shelters game. 10. Spicy sauce of tomatoes and onions and all you do. You will find spoiling yourself a little will help you be much more productive today seems the day you really begin to act on it. It seems a change in the right direc- 24. The part of the nervous system of verte- chili peppers to accompany Mexican in the long run. tion may bring great reward into your life. You will send enjoy world you have no brates that controls involuntary actions foods. desire to escape from. of the smooth muscles and heart and 11. A period marked by distinctive character glands. or reckoned from a fixed point or event. 26. Any of several plants of the genus 12. Wearing or provided with clothing. Camassia. 13. A soft heavy toxic malleable metallic ele- ment. Leo (July 23-August 22) 28. A lawman concerned with narcotics vio- Aquarius (January 20- February 18) lations. 14. A Spanish unit of length (about a yard) 30. Walk consisting of a paved area for having different values in different locali- You have always had that strong shoulder that others seem to lean on. pedestrians. ties. Sexual needs seem to be a major focus for you now. There are just some 19. Without forethought or plan. Today is no exception. You may find your phone ringing off of the hook with friends things and some one you cannot seem to get off of your mind. This is a 33. Fear resulting from the awareness of dan- in need. Your advice is in high demand. The level of respect your friends have for you ger. 23. River in eastern Asia. great desire for some special time to be spent with a special someone. You desire pow- 25. Enthusiastic approval. is to be envied. You are the friend others wish to have. Being the one everyone turns er and control. These thoughts have your mind racing and you start focusing on a plan 37. (informal) Of the highest quality. to in their time of need can be exhausting. Who is there when you need a friend to 38. Wild sheep of northern Africa. 27. A vehicle resembling a bicycle but having to accomplish your goals and satisfy your desires. The great mysteries of life and death skis instead of wheels. confide in? You may find someone older or in authority can offer you the support you fascinate you and you have a desire to live each day to the fullest. You may appear to 39. (Greek mythology) A maiden who was need today. first a sculpture created by Pygmalion 29. A rapid series of short loud sounds (as be at ease and loose today. Everything seems to be working together, and you will be and was brought to life by Aphrodite in might be heard with a stethoscope in able to communicate and express yourself well. answer to Pygmalion's prayers. some types of respiratory disorders). 41. A statement that expresses a personal 31. A mass of ice and snow that permanently covers a large area of land (e.g., the opinion or belief. Virgo (August 23-September 22) 43. A soft silvery metallic element of the alkali polar regions or a mountain peak). earth group. 32. Affectedly modest or shy especially in a 45. Of an instrument of certain death. playful or provocative way. Variety is the spice of life. This seems to be your motto at this time. You Pisces (February 19-March 20) 46. (medicine) Having or experiencing a 34. Essential oil or perfume obtained from may find yourself drawn in different directions or drawn to new experiences. You can’t rapid onset and short but severe course. flowers. seem to sit still. You are finding you are happiest when on the go. You have a desire for This is day you may feel as if you are spinning your wheels. It seems to be 48. Title for a civil or military leader (espe- 35. 40th President of the United States (1911- knowledge and you are gathering it from all new experiences. You may find others cially in Turkey). ). a very superficial day for you. Everything and everyone seems fake to you. It seems as if being drawn to you and expressing admiration toward your desire for knowledge and you are going through the motions, it is a very repetitive and senseless day for you. You 49. The local environment. 36. A constitutional monarchy in southeast- for the wisdom you possess. This day could bring a variety of emotions as well. You 50. The elementary stages of any subject ern Asia on Borneo and the Malay find no depth nor meaning in your actions nor the ones around you. You cannot seem to Peninsula. may go from feeling on top of the world to feeling misunderstood. Remember, Virgo, get beneath the surface. It may seem as if your feelings are going against what you val- (usually plural). this day is about your pursuit knowledge and it is ok to do just what makes you happy. 51. Noisy quarrel. 40. Type genus of the Alcidae comprising ue. You could find this difficult for you to deal with. 54. A fencing sword similar to a foil but with solely the razorbill. a heavier blade. 42. Earnest and conscientious activity 56. A hemoprotein composed of globin and intended to do or accomplish something. heme that gives red blood cells their 44. United States writer (born in Poland) who Wordsearch Puzzle Yesterday’s Solution characteristic color. wrote in Yiddish (1880-1957). 57. A rare heavy polyvalent metallic element 47. A member of an American Indian peoples that resembles manganese chemically of NE and the Lesser and is used in some alloys. Antilles. 58. A silvery soft waxy metallic element of 52. (trademark) A light plastic disk about 10 the alkali metal group. inches in diameter. 59. Top part of an apron. 53. A boy or man. 61. A formal association of people with simi- 55. The blood group whose red cells carry lar interests. both the A and B antigens. 63. (Babylonian) A demigod or first man. 60. Glazed yeast-raised doughnut-shaped 67. The Tibeto-Burman language spoken in roll with hard crust. the Dali region of Yunnan. 62. The capital and largest city of 70. A region of central Europe rich in Bangladesh. deposits of coal and iron ore. 64. An informal term for a father. 73. Disparaging terms for the common peo- 65. Title for a civil or military leader (espe- ple. cially in Turkey). 75. Aircraft landing in bad weather in which 66. A river in north central Switzerland that the pilot is talked down by ground con- runs northeast into the Rhine. trol using precision approach radar. 68. The United Nations agency concerned 76. An indehiscent fruit derived from a single with civil aviation. ovary having one or many seeds within a 69. Open-heart surgery in which the rib cage fleshy wall or pericarp. is opened and a section of a blood vessel 77. Hormone secreted by the posterior pitu- is grafted from the aorta to the coronary itary gland (trade name Pitressin) and artery to bypass the blocked section of also by nerve endings in the hypothala- the coronary artery and improve the mus. blood supply to the heart. 78. (British) Liable to payment of rates or 71. Someone who works (or provides work- taxes. ers) during a strike. 81. A rotating disk shaped to convert circular 72. God of love and erotic desire. into linear motion. 74. A conspicuous disparity or difference as 82. The cry made by sheep. between two figures. 83. A short speech (often in verse) addressed 79. A light strong gray lustrous corrosion- directly to the audience by an actor at resistant metallic element used in strong the end of a play. light-weight alloys (as for airplane parts). 84. A loose sleeveless outer garment made 80. A trivalent metallic element of the rare from aba cloth. earth group.

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Established 1961 Lifestyle

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29, 2020

A woman looks at a mural by the artists Muck Rock and Mr79lts showing Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna Bryant, who were killed with seven others in a helicopter crash on January 26, in on January 27, 2020. — AFP

round 40 young Tunisian volunteers gather them, they are effective and it’s free,” says Nizar al dessert) and rosemary, sold for its essential Aon a bare hill in the central region of Khlif, a manager at the Siliana branch of the oil,” adds Jaidi, a local guide from the nearby Siliana. Their weekend mission - revive a CRDA. “And there is a participatory approach - town of Kesra. burned forest by planting Aleppo pine shoots. they involve the local population.” The arrival of Forest fires, both deliberate and accidental, Hamdi, from the eastern city of Sfax, gets straight the city-dwelling, backpack-carrying volunteers eat away at hundreds of hectares each year. But to work after travelling 250 kilometers to the has inspired Siliana residents. the state is increasingly joining forces with local marginalized region. A camping and hiking In 2017, 40 hectares (almost 100 acres) of for- residents and its reforestation strategies seem to enthusiast, he found out about the initiative on est went up in smoke. A suspected arsonist said be paying off. Forests and scrubland now cover Facebook. “It’s a chance to have fun and do he had hoped the blaze would compel authorities more than 1.3 million hectares, or around 8.5 per- something good together,” says the student. to recruit forest rangers, and that he would be cent of the country, up from 7.4 percent in 2011, He is part of a network of nature lovers who hired. “It was as if we’d lost a family member,” according to the directorate general for forests. have joined forces with Tunisian authorities for an ambitious venture; plant 12 million trees across the country by the end of this year. That target equates to one tree per Tunisian citizen. “We can only get there together,” says Baya Khalfallah, one of the heads of the Soli&Green association, which launched the campaign in November. “To reach our objective, we are counting on all the (community) organizations, our partner- ship with the government-and, obviously, on those who are environmentally conscious,” she adds. Most of the volunteers come from the large coastal cities of Tunis, Sfax and Sousse. Amin Farhat, a young executive from Tunis who is also an activist for a recycling charity, says they want to safeguard Tunisia’s natural beauty and resources. “We’re doing it for the future,” he says.

Effective & enthusiastic Soli&Green, founded by a handful of environ- mental activists in their thirties, organizes plant- says 14-year-old Khairi Jaied, from a nearby vil- The aim is to reach 10 percent by 2024. ing weekends in winter and helps other organiza- lage. “I have many good memories of the forest. Whether it’s post-fire reforestation or fighting tions that want to do the same. Since November, It’s good to see these people helping so that our desertification in the south by planting palms and it has compiled a list of all the country’s refor- region can rebuild its resources.” olive trees, the task is enormous. Nessim estation initiatives and estimates that by mid- Zouaoui, 26, says he is sometimes discouraged. “I January, almost a million trees had been planted. ‘Motivating’ spend most of my free time cleaning beaches and The state does most of the work. The regional “Before the fire, there was a dense forest planting trees,” says the young entrepreneur and commission for agricultural development here,” says 46-year-old Khlifa Jaidi, pointing at a activist. “But we just went to see a neighboring (CRDA), a public body, provides volunteers with rocky hill. Reforestation is a crucial part of curb- plot where we worked in March and we realized basic training, thousands of tree shoots and a ing erosion and fighting global warming - trees that we had completely planted a forest. That’s watering truck. capture carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, and really motivating!”— AFP “When we use laborers, we plant around transform it into oxygen. But it’s also a way of 1,000 trees a day. But with volunteers, we can creating local revenue. “People used to gather plant 4,000, even 5,000 a day. There are a lot of Aleppo pine seeds to make zgougou (a tradition-

Volunteers plant trees on the Kesra mountains in Tunisia’s Siliana region. — AFP photos 20 Established 1961 Lifestyle Features Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Michelin guide international three star awarded Japanese chef Kei Kobayashi (center) pose for the photo family with other awarded chefs, during the Gala’ of Michelin Michelin guide international three star awarded chefs French Glenn Viel (left), Japanise Kei Guide 2020’ list of top restaurants and chefs in . — AFP photos Kobayashi (center) and French Christopher Coutanceau celebrates during the Gala’ of Michelin Guide 2020’ list of top restaurants and chefs in Paris.

hef Kei Kobayashi became the first with lemon emulsion. French gastronomes were quite as convinced rant, Kobayashi decided to dedicate himself to working in France to get three Michelin stars CJapanese chef ever to win the maximum of his genius. The influential culinary website French cuisine after watching a television for his restaurant Mirazur, overlooking the three Michelin stars in France on ‘Virtuoso of flavors’ Atabula said his cooking lacked “coherence documentary about the nouvelle cuisine pio- Mediterranean at Menton near the Italian Monday. The flamboyant 42-year-old, who Critics hailed the precision of his cooking and emotion”, adding that although his neer Alain Chapel, himself a three-star border. Two French chefs-Christopher was born in Nagano, was the biggest winner and the way he made relatively simple dishes restaurant was “a good two-star table, it’s a Michelin chef. He moved to France in 1998 Coutanceau from the western port city of La on a night when Japanese cooks triumphed in like gnocchi, truffle, bellota ham and parme- thin three-star one”. Kobayashi, however, is after training in French restaurants in Japan, Rochelle and Glenn Viel, who cooks at the the backyard of French haute cuisine. Kazuyuki Tanaka won two stars for Racine, his restaurant in the northeastern city of Reims, as did Yasunari Okazaki for his sushi and crossover cuisine at L’Abysee au Pavillon Ledoyen in Paris. Kobayashi-a striking figure with bleached blond hair-said Japanese cooks have earned their place at the top table of French cuisine. “There are lots of Japanese chefs now in France and you have accepted us and given us a place,” he said as picked up the highest dis- tinction in French cooking. “Thank you, France,” he added. Kobayashi admitted that his perfectionism can make him a “difficult person” to work with. “I am quite hard. I ask a lot of my team, and then I ask a lot more,” he joked. In this file photo Japanese chef Kei Kobayashi works in his restaurant Michelin guide international director Gwendal Poullennec (right) Michelin guide international director Gwendal Poullennec addresses A dozen top Japanese cooks in France “KEI”. stands on stage next to chef Kei Kobayashi (second right) of restau- on stage during the Gala’ of Michelin Guide 2020’ list of top restau- have shaken up the elite ranks of the Michelin rant Kei awarded with three star, during the Gala’ of Michelin Guide rants and chefs in Paris. in recent years, led by two-star chefs Takao 2020’ list of top restaurants and chefs in Paris. Takano in Lyon and Masafumi Hamano at the Au 14 Fevrier near Macon in rural Burgundy. san cheese extraordinary. He told AFP after not one to be easily shaken. With its sparse working under the legendary chef Gilles Oustau de Baumaniere hotel in Baux-de- Last year, Keigo Kimura at the Asperule in his Michelin victory Monday that he didn’t grey interior, the chef said he did not need to Goujon at the Auberge du Vieux Puits on the Provence-joined Kobayashi this year in earn- Dijon and Takafumi Kikuchi at La Sommeliere like his cooking “categorized” as either hang pictures on the walls of his 30-seat Swiss border and Alain Ducasse at the Plaza ing the maximum Michelin ranking. Only some in Lyon won their first stars for helping to re- French or Japanese, “just the best”. The restaurant, which he runs with his wife Athenee in Paris before going out on his own. 130 restaurant worldwide hold the prestigious define and re-invent French cuisine. famous red guide described him as a “virtu- Chikako. “My cuisine provides the necessary Michelin’s rewarding of so many Japanese guide’s highest distinction. — AFP Kobayashi opened his restaurant, Kei, in cen- oso of flavors” and his cooking as both “deli- touches of color,” he declared. chefs again shows how French gastronomy- ter of the French capital nine years ago, and cate and memorable”. once regarded as the best in the world-has wowed diners with such dishes as sea bass “It’s very simple. Every dish that Kei turns New French openness opened up to foreign cooks as its dominance cooked on its scales and smoked salmon with the rigour of his attention to is called on to The son of a chef who worked in a tradi- has waned. Last year, the Argentinian Mauro roquette mousse and a tomato vinaigrette become a signature one,” it added. But not all tional Japanese multi-course “kaiseki” restau- Colagreco became the first foreign chef

ony’s “Bad Boys for Life” stayed to Hollywood Reporter. The cast includes Satop the North American box office Robert Downey Jr., Emma Thompson, at the weekend, while war film Antonio Banderas and Marion Cotillard. Handout picture released by Bolivia’s Natural History “1917” held at second as it continued rack- Fourth spot went to new release “The Museum “Alcide d’Orbigny” showing one of three ing up awards, industry watcher Exhibitor Gentlemen,” an action comedy from STX ‘glass frogs’, found on January 8, at the Sehuencas Relations said Monday. “Bad Boys,” with that took in $10.7 million. The Guy Ritchie National Park, some 120 km east from Cochabamba, popular actors Will Smith and Martin movie, with a star-studded (and mainly Bolivia. — AFP Lawrence reprising their roles as two male) cast including Matthew wise-cracking detectives, took in $34 mil- McConaughey, Hugh Grant, Henry Golding lion for the three-day weekend, a surpris- and Colin Farrell, tells the story of an ing success for a sequel that kept fans American in London who encounters a waiting for 17 years. Universal’s World series of complications when he decides to War I drama “1917” continued its march sell off his lucrative cannabis empire. And forward, selling $15.9 million in tickets to in fifth, down one spot from last weekend, remain in second place while passing the was Sony’s “Jumanji: The Next Level,” at rare species of frog native to the eastern $100 million mark domestically since its $7.7 million. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson slopes of the Bolivian Andes has been spotted release. and Kevin Hart star in the action sequel. A The Sam Mendes film has piled up the Rounding out the top 10 were: in the South American country for the first time in 18 years, the investigation team that made honors, including the Directors Guild of “The Turning” ($7 million) the discovery told AFP. The Bolivian Cochran frog is America’s top prize Saturday, and is con- “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” notable for its transparent belly, leading to its nick- sidered an Oscar favorite. In third place ($5.6 million) name, the “glass frog”. “The rediscovery of this was “Dolittle,” Universal’s take on the “Little Women” ($4.6 million) species fills us with a ray of hope for the future of beloved children’s book about a veterinar- “Just Mercy” ($4 million) the glass frogs-one of the most charismatic amphib- ian who can talk to the animals. It took in “Knives Out” ($3.5 million)—AFP ians in the world-but also for other species,” said $12.2 million, raising its domestic total to In this file photo (from left) Director Adil El Arbi, actors Will Smith, Joe Pantoliano, Martin investigation team members Rodrigo Aguayo and just over $44 million-still a small fraction Lawrence, director Bilall Fallah and actor Charles Melton arrive for the World Premiere of Oliver Quinteros, from the Natural History Museum of its net budget of $175 million, according “Bad Boys For Life” at the TCL Chinese theatre in Hollywood. — AFP “Alcide d’Orbigny”, and Rene Carpio of the San Simon University in Cochabamba. The team came across the frogs on January 8 during a mission to rescue reptiles and amphibians threatened by a hydroelectric project in the Carrasco National Park to the east of Cochabamba, ife is full of encounters, the most same is true of this model combining stain- Clean lines, a distinguished silhouette, the fourth largest city in Bolivia. Glass frogs are tiny, Limportant of which is finding your one less steel and rose gold PVD, which is the perfect finishes and ultimate precision... measuring only 0.7-0.9 inches (19-24 millimeters) true love. For Valentine’s Day, Tissot is essence of elegance with a hint of poetry. the T-Wave watch can only be described and weighing just 2.5-2.8 ounces (70-80 grams). offering a unique watch for declaring your Nothing if not subtle, the watch does not in superlatives. To add to its charm, it is They can be found in the departments of La Paz love to the woman you have set your heart reveal all its secrets at first glance, but only dedicated to a very special event in any- (west), Cochabamba, Santa Cruz (east) and on: the T-Wave Bicolor. A real object of to the woman who takes the time to get to one’s life: the consecration of love. On the Chuquisaca (southeast). Some frogs’ hearts and desire, this is a highly covetable timepiece know it. It has a subtle yet extreme beauty wrist of the woman you love, it sets the digestive tracts can be seen through their transpar- with its stainless steel and rose gold PVD and smoothly flowing curves. tempo for precious moments and makes ent bellies. trim. Its dial in white iridescent mother-of- The lines of its fine, multi-dimensional, every second spent with your loved one Those found in the Carrasco National Park had a pearl adds a soft, elegant touch to a stylish two-color design catch the light in a host of even more special. transparent belly with a “white chest. The bones and design that lends itself well to any occasion. different ways, from bracelet to case. On vocal sac of the males are dark green,” the team It’s a measure of love, right there on the the dial, the understated, sophisticated Technical features said. The three frogs found were taken to the K’ayra wrist, as well as en enduring reminder of mother-of-pearl adds a very pure, natural • Made in Switzerland amphibian conservation center at the Alcide promises made and the continuation of a aspect that complements the delicacy of • Quartz end-of-life movement d’Orbigny museum. Experts will try to encourage love story. the hands in the shape of skeleton petals. • 316L stainless steel and rose PVD case the frogs to breed as part of a conservation strategy. It’s without a shadow of a doubt the Even the crown adds an original touch: set • Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal The K’ayra Center is also home to a pair of most romantic day of the year. Valentine’s with a white agate stone, it looks like a jew- • Stainless steel bracelet and rose gold Sehuenca water frogs, known as Romeo and Juliet, Day is also the occasion chosen by Tissot el in itself, while still being easy to manipu- PVD executions that scientists have been trying to convince to mate for presenting its latest creation, dedicated late. And the ultimate stylish yet laid-back • Diameter: 30 mm to help preserve their critically endangered species. to lovers everywhere: the T-Wave Bicolor. touch? The shape of the horns, which per- • Water-resistance to a pressure of 3 bar Their attempts have so far been in vain. — AFP The name is often associated with an espe- fectly hug the curve of the wrist and pro- (30 m) cially glamorous ladies’ collection. And the vide a unique level of everyday comfort. Established 1961 21 Lifestyle Features Wednesday, January 29, 2020

In this file photo taken on February 27, 1989 French Cabaret artist In this file photo taken on June 7, 2016 French cabaret director and French cabaret director Michel Georges Alfred Catty, also Michel Georges Alfred Catty, also known as Michou, poses with known as Michou performs at the ‘Paradis Latin’ during a TV stuffed animals in his house in Paris. Waiters of Michou Cabaret serve clients in Paris. — AFP photos show for the centenary of the Parisian cabaret in Paris.

ichou, a legend of the Paris night famous women for after-dinner entertain- Mscene who helped inspire the comedy ment in his simple bar in the city’s northern classic “La Cage aux Folles”, died Montmartre district. “I imitated Brigitte Sunday at the age of 88. A trailblazer who Bardot, finishing my number almost naked... established drag cabaret in France, Michou for the time, it was very cheeky,” he says on died in a Paris hospital, Francois Deblaye, a his club’s website. spokesman for his Chez Michou theatre, told AFP. Michou, whose real name was Michel ‘Michettes’ Catty, was a fixture of Paris nightlife for more He and his friends repeated the perform- than 60 years, unmistakable in his top-to-toe ance and soon the barmen and waiters were all-blue outfits and chunky dark glasses. swapping aprons after their shifts for outra- geous gowns, wigs and false eyelashes. Michou and his camped-up “Michettes” became icons of Paris’s saucy nightlife, alongside the larger, more conventional cabarets of the Moulin Rouge, Lido and Crazy Horse. His entertainment was about mimicking-not mocking-the stars of the day, Michou insisted. “There is a lot of respect in our caricatures. We adore our victims and they know it,” he told AFP in 2011. “We do not ape them. There is never any vulgarity.” Egyptian-born diva Dalida, France’s blonde pop queen of the 1970s and 1980s, “loved to come and see herself more In this file photo taken on June 13, 2016 French crazy than ever,” he said. Such was his fame Cabaret artist and transvestite cabaret owner that he and his club inspired a hit 1978 In this file photo taken on April 5, 1986 (Top left to right) French actor Jean-Claude Brialy, US actress and singer Liza Minnelli, French singer Charles Aznavour, pose Michou, whose real name is Michel Georges Alfred French comedy film, “La Cage aux Folles”- with (Front Row from left to right) tranvestite impersonator Silvestre, French cabaret director Michel Georges Alfred Catty, also known as Michou (center), and Catty, poses in Paris. later remade in Hollywood as “The French artistic director Georges Garaventz pose during a dinner in a restaurant, in Paris. Birdcage”, starring Robin Williams. the 1980s, also recording several songs. singing legend Nana Mouskouri. me. That may seem pretentious but the His tiny Cabaret Michou launched drag Blue Prince Always proudly and flamboyantly gay, even It was fueled by lots of champagne, his cabaret will not survive after me,” he said in entertainment in the mid-1950s when it put In 1948, Michou arrived in the City of when homosexuality was illegal, Michou was preferred “fountain of youth”. Michou made a recent interview. — AFP on shows featuring men caricaturing women Light from the small northern city of Amiens, awarded France’s highest civilian honour, the clear in his 2017 memoires “Blue Prince of personalities of the time. Michou would aged 17. As his reputation grew through his Legion d’honneur, in 2005. Montmartre” that he wants to be buried in a recount over the years how one Mardi Gras niche cabaret, he had a film cameo in 1973 His 80th birthday party was a megabash blue coffin, also saying his cabaret should die he dared some male friends to dress up as and was a frequent feature on television in of stars, from fashion’s Jean-Paul Gaultier to when he does. “I want this to disappear with

nown for its celebrity scandals to hear of the loss via media. Breaks the website. “TMZ effectively-when it Kand salacious gossip, website my heart.” comes to entertainment news that is TMZ has carved out another TMZ did not respond to AFP’s headline-breaking, like the Kobe sto- niche for itself-breaking the news of request for comment on its reporting ry-they run this town,” said Hollywood olice, firefighters, news chan- into a hillside near Los Angeles. fog to lift,” said Lesourd. According famous deaths first, at any cost. TMZ or protocols on the story. But the entertainment journalist and producer Pnels and tourists: helicopters Eight others were killed, including to Lesourd, the likeliest explanation was first to report the helicopter crash website, founded in 2005, has a track Simon Thompson. “They have people are a constant buzz in the Los his 13-year-old daughter, whom is that the pilot suffered “spatial dis- that killed NBA legend Kobe Bryant record of being quickest to grisly everywhere.” Angeles skies, but only a few wealthy Kobe was accompanying to a bas- orientation” after losing sight of the and eight others near Los Angeles on celebrity deaths. It broke details of people like Kobe Bryant could afford ketball game she was due to play in. ground upon entering the clouds. “A Sunday. Law enforcement officials Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston ‘Merciless approach’ to use them on a daily basis. The helicopter is unstable-not like a car have lashed out at the website for and Prince passing before mainstream The outlet is also known for paying expensive, rapid option is restricted ‘Unstable’ or a plane. You constantly have to publishing details of the loss of life outlets. Other famous scoops included tipsters, often generous fees reaching to a handful of businessmen and The causes of the disaster have actively control its altitude,” he said. before victims’ next of kin could be Mel Gibson’s drunk-driving arrest and thousands of dollars, in what a New celebrities-including the late basket- not yet been determined, but the city “When you’re in the clouds, your notified. anti-Semitic tirade, and Chris Brown’s Yorker profile called a “merciless ball legend-seeking to avoid the was shrouded in a dense fog. “He brain doesn’t know which way is up Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex physical assault on then-girlfriend approach to celebrity news.” Founder Californian city’s notoriously clogged should have said to himself ‘Let’s and which is down, like when you’re Villanueva called the practice Rihanna. Harvey Levin-a lawyer by training, roads. take the car,’ or stopped somewhere scuba diving.” Bryant’s pilot would “extremely disrespectful” and “wholly Experts say this stems from its and former reporter-told Fox News in “Renting a machine like (Bryant’s and waited a couple of hours for the have been highly experienced, inappropriate.” His deputy Tim extensive network of news gatherers 2014 there was “nothing wrong” with Sikorsky S-76) is about $4,000 an because helicopters which transport Murakami tweeted that he was “sad- and sources, particularly in Los paying sources for surveillance cam- hour, the pilot is earning at least individual passengers “on demand” dened that I was gathering facts as a Angeles. Unconfirmed reports claim era footage or photos. “The video is $100,000 a year,” Philippe Lesourd, require strict, airline-style permits to media outlet reported ... Kobe had these include airport officials, limo still the video. So who cares whether a helicopter pilot and instructor who operate. passed. “I understand getting the drivers and court officials. Los you pay money for it?” has been flying in the state for 29 Such “air taxi” pilots-a minority scoop but please allow us time to Angeles police and justice officials Levin did not respond to a request years, told AFP. “It’s not within any- of those flying helicopters-have to make personal notifications to their have lost their jobs after allegedly for comment by AFP. While main- one’s reach.” undergo regular training and drug loved ones,” he wrote. “It’s very cold providing confidential information to stream journalism typically frowns on Beside Bryant, other celebrities testing checks, added Lesourd. some of these practices, TMZ is not who regularly use helicopters California is the US state with the unique in doing so, and has also drawn include the Kardashian family, said highest number of helicopter acci- reluctant praise for its work on impor- Lesourd, as well as businessmen who dents, with 177 recorded between tant stories. It broke allegations of prefer an option “about five or six 2007-2016, according to official sta- racism against ex-Los Angeles times faster than the road with traf- tistics. Helicopters were on average Clippers owner Donald Sterling, and fic.” Bryant started using private safer than airplanes in the US, with a “Seinfeld” star Michael Richards. choppers around 2006. After drop- fatality rate of 0.82 per 100,000 fly- Owned by WarnerMedia, TMZ’s name ping his daughters at school by car ing hours, including 55 deaths in 24 comes from an old industry term, in the morning, he would fly 40 miles accidents last year. But according to “Thirty Mile Zone,” designating the north to the Lakers stadium in down- figures from a US helicopter safety limits of Hollywood’s entertainment town LA for basketball training, and group, private flights have the worst district. The brand now operates tele- return to Newport Beach in time to performance of any sector. Over the vision shows and Los Angeles celebri- collect them. past decade, they accounted for only ty-themed bus tours. While TMZ’s The journey took just 15 minutes three percent of flying hours, but 26 reporting methods are not to every- by helicopter, compared to at least percent of fatal accidents. — AFP one’s tastes, its impact is difficult to two hours by car during rush hour. “I ignore. “Their track record is pretty had to figure out a way where I In this file photo taken on April 09, consistent,” said Thompson. could still train and focus on the craft 2014 NBA Los Angeles Laker Kobe “Whether you agree with how they do but not compromise family time,” Bryant stands on the sideline with his it or not, they have a very strong net- Bryant once said. After retiring in daughter Gianna Maria-Onore Bryant work of people in places where they 2016, the basketball titan-worth an on his shoulders prior to the start of need to be to get pretty accurate estimated $600 million-continued to the game against the United States Los Angeles County Fire Department fire fighters are on the scene of a helicopter crash information pretty quickly.”— AFP rent helicopters and pilots for his and China during an international in Calabasas on Sunday that killed 5 people included former Los Angeles Laker star travels. He was in his regular helicop- firendly match at Qualcomm Stadium Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna Maria. — AFP ter Sunday morning when it crashed in San Diego, California. — AFP 22 Established 1961 Lifestyle Gossip Wednesday, January 29, 2020

parks will release new album ‘A “The boys have really taken it up a notch night, Sparks will be at the Barrowland than their earlier releases in the 70s. In an S Steady Drip, Drip, Drip’ later on these 14 tracks, some sounding even Ballroom in Glasgow, followed by shows interview with The Times newspaper, he this year. The art rock duo - Grammy ready. “Later, the band hits the in at the Limelight Club and admitted: “I can’t say it wasn’t fun in the made up of brothers Ron and road for what promises to be an exciting ’s Vicar Street. The social media 70s having screaming people in the audi- Russell Mael - have unveiled plans for Fall tour.” In October, the ‘This Town Ain’t clip also teased a new documentary about ence. “Musically, though, it is more fun their upcoming 24th studio record, which Big Enough For The Both of Us’ hitmakers the group - directed by ‘Shaun of the now. The fact we are still here, it’s beyond will be their first since 2017’s will be playing five shows across the UK Dead’ and ‘Scott Pilgrim’ filmmaker Edgar surreal.” ‘Hippopotamus’. The band made the and Ireland. The short run will kick off at Wright - which is also set to be released announcement in a surreal Twitter video the Roundhouse in London on October 21, later this year. Meanwhile, keyboard play- featuring a mannequin confirming the LP before the band travel up to ’s er Ron previously admitted the pair prefer is coming on May 15. The mannequin said: Albert Hall two days later. The following the music they are making now, rather

ustin Bieber decided to J return to music after per- forming at Coachella in TS have promised their The video features the words of 2019. The ‘Yummy’ hitmak- B new album will be “bet- dancer Martha Graham, who er joined Ariana Grande on stage dur- ter and harder” than inspired the song, which is about ing the annual music festival and his people expect. The their “fears that one day music will close friend Ryan Good admits that South Korean group - V, Jungkook, no longer be able to move or touch was the moment that Justin knew he Jimin, SUGA, Jin, RM and J-Hope them.” Seven dancers depict a wanted to step back into the studio will release ‘Map of the Soul: 7’ black swan “rising from the ashes and work on new tracks. Ryan next month and have told fans the of trial and hardship” in the unique revealed: “Justin was going back and record will exceed their expecta- and immersive performance. As forth whether it was the right time or tions of what the band can deliver. per a press release, on ‘Black not. I think Scooter was thinking he RM told E! News: “It’s going to be Swan’ BTS “dive deep into their should have this opportunity to go whatever you’re expecting it is but inner selves as artists and faces the out on that stage so he could be it’s going to be better and harder.” shadows they had once hidden.” reminded himself and of who he is The ‘Boy With Luv’ hitmakers have The description continues: “The and what he does. It kind of seemed series, titled ‘Seasons’, Scooter said: become a global sensation but song lends voice to their fears that like a turning point for him to where “Early on in his career, we’d always insisted they can “never get used one day music will no longer be he was like, ‘I think I’m ready to do say, ‘Let’s go for another one, another to” attracting such huge crowds, able to move or touch them. The this again. I think I need to do this hit, another record, another thing, though they are proud to have a very moment they come face to again.’ As he was walking of stage, he another tour.’ And before ‘Purpose’, diverse following. They said: “It’s face with the Black Swan within said that to Allison [Allison Kaye - with ‘Journals’, I didn’t want him to something we can never get used themselves, however, they are Justin’s management], he said, ‘I need tour, I wanted him to get healthy and to... performing in front of thou- stricken with a paradoxical realiza- to get back out here.’” Justin famously then he got healthy and we went on sands of people. “It’s all about love tion that music is all they have. It is cancelled the last dates of his ‘Purpose’ and then at the end he was and truly transcends language, a confession of an artist who has tired and said, ‘Look, I need a break races, and nationalities.” The K- truly learned what music means to ‘Purpose’ tour back in 2017 after ron Maiden drummer influenced by Eddie Val Halen. The again.’ And we took the break and Pop superstars shared the first sin- himself.” ‘Map of the Soul: 7’ is the struggling with his own mental health Nicko McBrain has hinted legendary musician had a massive he’s taken a very long break and in gle from the new album earlier this fourth studio album for the ‘Boy I and exhaustion and whilst his long- that the band are working impact on heavy metal fans around that time he’s found his wife, he’s month, emo rap song ‘Black Swan’. With Luv’ hitmakers, and follows time manager Scooter Braun admitted on a new album. The 67- the world, but while Adrian respects grown a lot. I don’t put any pressure The new track - which follows the their 2019 chart-topping EP ‘Map he used to push Justin a lot, he now year-old star refused to confirm a fol- Eddie, he took inspiration from other on that timeline anymore, he’s earned Suga-led interlude ‘Shadow’ - is of the Soul: Persona’. lets the singer “do it in his own time” low-up to 2015’s ‘Book of Souls’, but stars. He explained: “I’d already been the right to do it in his own time.” accompanied by an art film per- as he feels he has “earned the right” he suggested fans of the ‘Run to the playing for a few years before he formed by MN Dance Company. to do so. Speaking as part of Justin’s Hills’ rockers should pay close atten- came out, so your style gets kind of YouTube Originals documentary tion to their official website. Keeping set, but he influenced a lot of people.” coy, he told BackstageAxxess: Instead, Adrian was inspired by the “Watch this space: IronMaiden.com. likes the Beatles, and other special That’s all I’ve gotta say.” However, British musicians. “First bands I lis- when he was pressed on whether tened to, that got me into music, were something is coming out “soon”, [Deep Purple], ‘Machine Head’ era, Nicko was quick to clarify his com- Free, ‘Free Live’ [with Paul Kossoff], ments. He ranted: “No, I didn’t say Humble Pie, going back a bit now. “All tereophonics have at Vaynol Park in Bangor on July 25. something soon, and I didn’t say ‘pos- sort of English raucous kind of bands. S announced two “very spe- The ‘More Life in a Tramp’s Vest’ sibly.’ Watch this space, is what I said. When [I] started out playing, [I] cial” outdoor shows this rockers are about to hit the road for Don’t be putting words in their played The Rolling Stones and summer. The ‘Dakota’ hit- an arena tour across the UK, which mouths.” Meanwhile, guitarist Adrian Beatles, ‘cause they were a few makers will be playing a pair of huge kicks off at Sheffield’s Fly DSA Arena Smith - who completes the current chords; it was easy. And twelve-bar concerts in Scotland and Wales later on February 28 and is set to end with lineup with Steve Harris, Dave blues-that’s how we started.” this year, with tickets for the gigs two nights at the Motorpoint Arena in Murray, Bruce Dickinson and Janick going on sale on Friday after a pre- Cardiff on March 14 and 15. The Gers - has admitted he was never sale two days earlier. On July 11, Kelly group will also be marking 20 years Jones and his bandmates - Richard since they first played the Teenage Jones, Adam Zindani and Jamie Cancer Trust as they return to head- Morrison - will play at Bught Park in line the annual charity event at Inverness, before taking to the stage London’s on March 25. Two decades on from the inaugu- ral gig, Stereophonics will step out ost Malone plans to skipped the ceremony because he formed with at the American Music with Paul Weller joining them on the P release a new album this was in need of a break to recharge Awards in November - recently night for a special solo acoustic set. year. The 24-year-old ahead of getting back on the road revealed he has Parkinson’s Disease. Roger Daltrey, Teenage Cancer Trust musician is planning to next week after partying “a little He explained: “Working with him Patron, said in a statement: “Once get back into the recording studio hard” recently. He explained to and hanging out with him and being again we’ve got some incredible once the North American leg of his Rolling Stone magazine: “I’m taking around him, you can’t tell. You can artists on the bill for 2020 and I can’t ‘Runaway Tour’ is completed and is it nice and easy. I needed a little tell he has a little difficulty getting thank them enough for giving up their hoping to have the follow-up to break because I’ve been partying a around, but he’s so strong.” And the time for Teenage Cancer Trust. “Since ‘Hollywood’s Bleeding’ - which was little hard, so it feels good to be rapper doesn’t think the condition the first gig back in 2000 audiences released last September - complet- back home and playing ‘Call of will spell the end of the ‘Paranoid’ have raised millions to fund Teenage ed before the end of 2020. He said: Duty’. “I’m going to take some R&R hitmaker’s career. He said: “I know Cancer Trust nurses, support teams “I hope to have a record out for the and get some beauty sleep so my he’s been working on a new project and special hospital wards that have fans in 2020.” The ‘Rockstar’ hit- body and voice doesn’t suck on with a bunch of my friends, [and] helped young people cope with some maker was nominated for two tour. If I go to LA, I’ll get into trou- I’m really excited for him because unimaginably hard times. “Without Grammy awards this weekend for ble.” Meanwhile, Post admitted he he’s so passionate about it and it Teenage Cancer Trust these specialist his and Swae Lee’s song ‘Sunflower’, had “no idea” Ozzy Osbourne’s sounds incredible; he sounds services would simply not be there.” Record of the Year and Pop condition was so serious after the incredible.” Duo/Group Performance, but he 71-year-old rocker - who he per-

he 1975 have announced a sustainably sourced and traceable be planted globally in Indonesia, , ombay Bicycle Club have Meanwhile, Glastonbury is once again £2,500 prize. Acts from any genre can T massive headline concert at Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel, Brazil, the Philippines and India to help B hinted that they will play at offering unsigned artists from the UK enter the contest from 9am on Monday Finsbury Park this summer and will also deploy hybrid powered restore forests that provide much need- Glastonbury this year. The and Ireland a chance to compete for a (27.01.20) until 5pm on February 3, via which will be the most envi- generators with solar arrays. The ‘Love ed temperature regulation on the equa- British indie band appeared slot on one of the main stages at the the official Glastonbury website. ronmentally friendly show ever staged It If We Made It’ hitmakers have also tor, conserving biodiversity, creating on UK station BBC Radio 1 on Monday festival. The winner of the Emerging Previous winners include Izzy Bizu and in London. The English band - com- arranged for 1,975 trees to be planted jobs and income for local communities to perform in the Live Lounge on Clara Talent Competition will also be award- She Drew The Gun, whilst 2019 winner prised of Matthew ‘Matty’ Healy, Ross across the local boroughs of Islington, and establishing sustainable land man- Amfo’s show, playing a rendition of ed a £5,000 Talent Development prize Marie White was signed to Decca MacDonald, George Daniel and Adam Hackney and Haringey to enhance agement practices. The pop stars are ‘Everything Else Has Gone Wrong’, the from PRS Foundation to help take their Records following her performance on Hann - will take to the stage at the community wellbeing, increase biodi- also on a mission to reduce waste and title track from their recently released songwriting and performing to the next the Acoustic Stage.—Bangshowbiz iconic open air venue on July 11 and will versity, capture carbon and improve air highlight the environmental impact of fifth studio album. During their inter- level, while the runner up will receive a be supported on the bill by Charli XCX, quality. It will also mark the first time the fashion industry by re-purposing view with Clara, the group were Clairo, Phoebe Bridgers, Pale Waves that a show at Finsbury Park will be merchandise from previous tours. Fans quizzed by a fan about the possibility and Beabadoobee. To help reduce the entirely paperless. The 1975 have also are encouraged to bring their old band of them playing at Michael and Emily environmental impact and carbon foot- pledged to plant a tree for every ticket tees to be reprinted with a choice of Eavis’ world famous festival for a fifth print of the mammoth gig, the concert sold at the festival. Teaming up with any The 1975 graphics at a live screen time. The fan asked “Glastonbury will be powered by using European One Tree Planted foundation, trees will printing. The announcement of the please, any comments?”, to which the Finsbury Park concert comes after the band - Jack Steadman, Jamie MacColl, band were forced to push back their Suren de Saram and Ed Nash - replied: European tour to focus on finishing “Working on it.” Glastonbury 2020 upcoming fourth studio album ‘Notes takes place between June 24 and June On A Conditional Form’. Frontman 28 on Worthy Farm in Somerset, Healy and co were due to kick off the , and will be headlined by 2020 run in February to coincide with Taylor Swift and Sir Paul McCartney, the release of the LP but after delaying with a third act to be announced, whilst the record until April the boys will now Motown star Diana Ross will fill the take to the stage in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday afternoon legends slot. Other October 3. acts believed to performing at the 50th anniversary of the festival include Pet Shop Boys, TLC and Crowded House. Classifieds Wednesday, January 29, 2020

LOST I, Husain Kakumama Mufaddal Shabbir S/O Shabbir Husain I Abdul Aziz Riaz S/O Riaz Kakumama R/O Najampura, Hussain Residence of Salmiya, Sagwara Dist, Dungrapur, Sabah Hospital 24812000 Kuwait announce through daily newspaper that my SSC/HSSC Rajasthan have changed my giv- Amiri Hospital 22450005 certificate bearing Roll No. en name to Mufaddal Shabbir 684345 of the year 2016 issued Husain and surname to Maternity Hospital 24843100 by Federal Board of Kakumama. Intermediate and Secondary Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital 25312700 Education Islamabad has been I, Naeema lost during transit etc. Whoever D/O Habib Husain finds it, shall send it to the Kabir R/O Najampura, Sagwara Chest Hospital 24849400 address Pakistan school Salmiya Dist, Dungarpur, Rajasthan have or call on the No. 97200842 changed my given name to (C 5624) 29-1-2020 Farwaniya Hospital 24892010 Kuwait. Naeema Habib Husain and sur- Adan Hospital 23940620 name to Kabir. CHANGE OF NAME I, Rukaiya Ibn Sina Hospital 24840300 Mufaddal Kakumama D/O Mufaddal Shabbir Husain I, Chakrapani Al-Razi Hospital 24846000 Megam holder of Kakumama R/O Najampura, Indian Passport No. R7680229 at Sagwara Dist. Dungarpur, Physiotherapy Hospital 24874330/9 kuwait on 10-05-2017 have Rajasthan have changed my giv- changed my name to given en name to Rukaiya Mufaddal name: Shaik Mahammad Yousuf and surname to Kakumama. here and after in all documents I (C 5623) will be known as Shaik 27-1-2020 Kaizen center 25716707 Mahammad Yousuf. (C 5621) Shaik Baba Alaudeen S/o Shaik Rawda 22517733 I, Johan Basha S/o Sowkath Ali, Baba, holder of Indian Passport Date of birth: 10.05.1976, (Native No. P1094143, Civil ID No. Adaliya 22517144 District: Cuddalore), residing at 274071201684, shall henceforth Manikkam Nagar, Mangalam be known as Shaik Baba (sur- Khaldiya 24848075 Pettai Post, Virudhachalam Taluk, name) Sheik Alaudeen (given Cuddalore - 606104, shall hence- name). (C 5620) Kaifan 24849807 forth be known as John Basha 26-1-2020 (C 5622) Shamiya 24848913 S/o Sowkath Ali. Shuwaikh 24814507 Abdullah Salem 22549134 Nuzha 22526804 Industrial Shuwaikh 24814764 Airlines Qadsiya 22515088

Dasmah 22532265 Kuwait Airways 171 Jazeera Airways 177 Bneid Al-Gar 22531908 Turkish Airlines 1884918 FlyDubai 22414400 Shaab 22518752 Qatar Airways 22423888 KLM 22425747 Qibla 22459381 Royal Jordanian 22418064/5/6 British Airways 22425635 Air France 22430224 Ayoun Al-Qibla 22451082 Emirates 22921555 Air India 22456700 Mirqab 22456536 Air India EXPRESS 22438185/4 Sri Lanka Airlines 22424444 Sharq 22465401 Egypt Air 22421578 Swiss Air 22421516 Salmiya 25746401 Saudia 22426306 Middle East Airlines 22423073

Directorate General of Civil Aviation Home Page (www.kuwait-airport.com.kw) DIAL161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION

Arrival Flights on Wednesday 29/1/ 2020 KNE 231 Riyadh 14:10 Departure Flights on Wednesday 29/1/ 2020 AHY 120 Baku 13:05 Airlines Flt Route Time KAC 752 ELQ 14:20 Airlines Flt Route Time MSR 611 Cairo 13:25 ETH 3620 Addis Ababa 00:01 MSR 575 Sharm el-Sheikh 14:20 AZG 566 Baku 00:01 KAC 781 Jeddah 13:30 IGO 1757 Kochi 00:10 FDB 059 Dubai 14:20 AIC 988 Hyderabad/Chennai 00:05 JZR 123 Dubai 13:40 AIC 989 Mumbai 00:10 KAC 742 Dammam 14:35 MSC 412 Asyut 00:15 KAC 105 London 14:00 JZR 254 Amman 00:45 KAC 672 Dubai 14:40 QTR 1093 Doha 00:25 UAE 872 Dubai 14:15 JZR 734 Cairo 00:50 KAC 774 Riyadh 14:40 FDB 072 Dubai 00:35 RBG 218 Asyut 14:25 THY 772 Istanbul 00:50 GFA 221 Bahrain 14:40 BBC 144 Chittagong 00:45 TBZ 6606 Mashhad 14:40 KAC 102 London 00:55 SVA 500 Jeddah 14:45 ETH 3621 Addis Ababa 01:00 QTR 1079 Doha 15:00 PGT 858 Istanbul 00:55 KAC 118 New York 14:50 AIC 990 Mumbai 01:10 KNE 382 Taif 15:00 DLH 625 Dammam 01:30 KAC 364 Colombo 14:50 IGO 1758 Kochi 01:10 PVV 730 IQA 15:00 MSR 618 Alexandria 01:35 KAC 286 Dhaka 14:55 JZR 111 Doha 01:55 MSR 576 Sharm el-Sheikh 15:05 THY 764 Istanbul 01:50 KAC 618 Doha 15:00 KAC 285 Dhaka 02:00 FDB 060 Dubai 15:10 JZR 722 Alexandria 01:55 KAC 512 Mashhad 15:15 KAC 363 Colombo 02:00 GFA 222 Bahrain 15:25 IGO 1759 Delhi 01:55 JZR 234 Taif 15:15 PGT 859 Istanbul 02:00 KAC 775 Riyadh 15:45 UAE 853 Dubai 02:15 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 15:15 KAC 677 Dubai 02:10 CLX 7912 Hanoi 15:50 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 02:15 KAC 788 Jeddah 15:25 JZR 119 Dubai 02:15 KAC 673 Dubai 15:50 KLM 446 Bahrain 02:30 JZR 222 Riyadh 15:30 THY 773 Istanbul 02:20 SVA 501 Jeddah 16:00 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:30 OMA 645 Muscat 15:35 KAC 417 Manila 02:30 KAC 563 Amman 16:00 QTR 1086 Doha 02:40 IRA 601 Tehran 15:40 DLH 625 Frankfurt 02:30 ETD 304 Abu Dhabi 16:20 OMA 643 Muscat 02:55 KAC 412 Bangkok 15:40 MSR 619 Alexandria 02:35 KAC 743 Dammam 16:20 KKK 1268 Istanbul 03:05 UAE 857 Dubai 15:45 IGO 1765 Delhi 02:55 KAC 283 Dhaka 16:25 PGT 860 Istanbul 03:05 JZR 732 Cairo 15:50 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 03:05 KAC 785 Jeddah 16:30 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 03:10 KAC 562 Amman 15:50 UAE 854 Dubai 03:40 OMA 646 Muscat 16:35 MSR 612 Cairo 03:15 ABY 127 Sharjah 15:55 KLM 446 03:55 ABY 128 Sharjah 16:35 QTR 1076 Doha 04:00 JZR 152 Mashhad 16:00 OMA 644 Muscat 03:55 IRA 664 Shiraz 16:40 IGO 1751 Chennai 04:10 RBG 211 Luxor 16:10 THY 765 Istanbul 04:00 KAC 615 Bahrain 16:45 KAC 418 Manila 04:25 JZR 212 Jeddah 16:25 QTR 1087 Doha 04:00 JZR 735 Cairo 16:50 OHY 352 Istanbul 04:30 QTR 1072 Doha 16:35 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:00 JZR 103 Bahrain 16:50 KAC 302 Mumbai 04:40 KAC 198 Baku 16:35 MSR 613 Cairo 04:15 KAC 503 Beirut 17:05 KAC 796 Madinah 04:40 JZR 612 Tbilisi 16:40 KAC 621 Doha 04:20 RBG 554 Alexandria 17:10 JZR 540 KTM 04:45 JZR 116 Doha 16:40 PGT 861 Istanbul 04:25 KAC 361 Colombo 17:30 JZR 702 Asyut 04:55 FDB 051 Dubai 16:45 JZR 713 Sohag 04:30 KAC 619 Doha 17:35 FDB 069 Dubai 05:00 KAC 546 Cairo 16:45 KKK 1269 Istanbul 04:35 KAC 357 Kochi 17:35 KAC 358 Kochi 05:10 SAW 705 Damascus 17:00 JZR 707 Luxor 04:40 JZR 405 Kochi 17:40 DHX 170 Bahrain 05:10 FEG 341 Sohag 17:20 KAC 103 London 05:00 UAE 858 Dubai 17:45 JZR 404 Hyderabad 05:10 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:25 IGO 1752 Chennai 05:10 FDB 052 Dubai 17:45 KAC 382 Delhi 05:20 SVA 504 Madinah 17:30 QTR 1077 Doha 05:30 JZR 539 KTM 17:50 KAC 784 Jeddah 05:20 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 OHY 351 Istanbul 05:30 KAC 331 Trivandrum 17:55 JZR 654 OSS 05:25 JZR 214 Jeddah 17:45 THY 771 Istanbul 06:25 KAC 343 Chennai 18:00 THY 770 Istanbul 05:25 UAE 875 Dubai 18:00 JZR 121 Dubai 06:35 QTR 1073 Doha 18:00 JZR 502 Lahore 05:35 FDB 063 Dubai 18:15 JZR 113 Doha 06:40 SAW 706 Damascus 18:00 JZR 112 Doha 05:35 JZR 302 Istanbul 18:15 FDB 070 Dubai 07:05 JZR 733 Cairo 18:10 KAC 284 Dhaka 05:35 JZR 124 Dubai 18:20 GFA 212 Bahrain 07:15 FEG 342 Sohag 18:20 JZR 216 Jeddah 05:50 MSR 620 Cairo 18:30 KAC 167 Paris 07:35 SVA 511 Riyadh 18:20 JZR 402 Mumbai 06:05 QTR 1080 Doha 18:30 KAC 171 Frankfurt 08:00 GFA 216 Bahrain 18:20 KAC 332 Trivandrum 06:05 RJA 640 Amman 19:10 IGO 1767 Mumbai 08:10 SVA 505 Madinah 18:30 KAC 344 Chennai 06:10 KAC 156 Istanbul 19:20 KAC 165 Rome 08:15 KAC 301 Mumbai 18:35 KAC 544 Cairo 07:00 ABY 123 Sharjah 19:25 ABY 120 Sharjah 08:30 JZR 127 Dubai 18:35 BAW 157 London 07:05 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:30 FDB 054 Dubai 08:35 JZR 403 Hyderabad 18:40 KAC 678 Dubai 07:05 KAC 744 Dammam 19:35 JZR 001 LGW 08:40 KAC 381 Delhi 18:45 JZR 120 Dubai 07:10 QTR 1090 Doha 19:35 KAC 511 Mashhad 09:00 JZR 721 Alexandria 18:55 KAC 206 Islamabad 07:10 KAC 782 Jeddah 19:50 KAC 787 Jeddah 09:00 FDB 064 Dubai 19:20 IGO 1766 Mumbai 07:10 JZR 104 Bahrain 19:55 BAW 156 London 09:10 JZR 253 Amman 19:20 ABY 129 Sharjah 07:50 KNE 381 Taif 20:00 JZR 731 Cairo 09:10 UAE 876 Dubai 19:30 FDB 053 Dubai 07:50 FDB 057 Dubai 20:00 QTR 1085 Doha 09:30 MSR 621 Cairo 19:30 QTR 1084 Doha 08:00 KAC 776 Riyadh 20:05 KAC 545 Cairo 09:30 QTR 1081 Doha 19:55 KAC 354 Bengaluru 08:10 KAC 104 London 20:05 KAC 671 Dubai 09:35 ABY 124 Sharjah 20:05 KAC 622 Doha 08:30 OMA 647 Muscat 20:20 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:45 RJA 641 Amman 20:10 UAE 855 Dubai 08:35 KAC 616 Bahrain 20:30 KAC 101 London 09:45 GFA 218 Bahrain 20:15 JZR 408 Ahmedabad 08:45 QTR 1088 Doha 20:30 KAC 561 Amman 09:45 KAC 353 Bengaluru 20:35 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 08:55 MSC 401 Alexandria 20:30 JZR 233 Taif 09:50 FDB 058 Dubai 20:45 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:05 KAC 166 Rome 20:40 ETD 302 Abu Dhabi 09:55 KNE 232 Riyadh 20:50 KAC 384 Delhi 09:30 DLH 624 Frankfurt 20:55 JZR 151 Mashhad 09:55 JZR 401 Mumbai 20:55 KAC 304 Mumbai 09:30 KAC 674 Dubai 20:55 UAE 856 Dubai 10:00 QTR 1091 Doha 21:00 IRA 665 Shiraz 09:35 MEA 402 Beirut 21:20 KAC 751 ELQ 10:00 OMA 648 Muscat 21:20 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:20 KAC 117 New York 10:00 IGO 1753 Ahmedabad 09:40 KAC 613 Bahrain 10:05 MSC 402 Alexandria 21:30 ALK 229 Colombo 21:20 DLH 624 Dammam 21:45 QTR 1070 Doha 09:45 UAE 859 Dubai 21:30 JZR 301 Istanbul 10:05 RBG 553 Alexandria 09:50 KAC 197 Baku 10:10 DHX 171 Bahrain 21:50 KAC 172 Frankfurt 21:30 QTR 1089 Doha 21:55 JZR 410 Delhi 10:00 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:45 KAC 773 Riyadh 10:15 IAW 157A Al Najaf 10:00 KAC 155 Istanbul 10:20 KAC 205 Islamabad 22:15 KLM 445 Amsterdam 21:50 JZR 701 Asyut 22:15 JZR 114 Doha 10:20 RBG 217 Asyut 22:00 RBG 212 Luxor 10:30 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 IRA 600 Tehran 10:35 MEA 403 Beirut 22:20 KAC 564 Amman 22:00 ALK 230 Colombo 22:25 JZR 714 Sohag 10:50 KAC 620 Doha 22:00 FDB 056 Dubai 10:35 JZR 708 Luxor 10:55 KAC 617 Doha 10:35 ETD 308 Abu Dhabi 22:25 KAC 168 Paris 22:00 GFA 220 Bahrain 22:30 AXB 889 Mangalore/Bahrain 11:10 QTR 1082 Doha 22:05 IGO 1754 Ahmedabad 10:40 JZR 122 Dubai 11:15 JZR 211 Jeddah 10:40 KLM 445 Bahrain 22:50 QTR 1074 Doha 11:35 JAV 621 Amman 22:15 JZR 611 Tbilisi 10:45 UAE 860 Dubai 22:55 MEA 404 Beirut 11:55 ETD 309 Abu Dhabi 22:15 QTR 1071 Doha 11:00 RBG 214 Sohag 23:00 PVV 730 Sharjah 12:00 OMS 225 Muscat 22:20 IAW 158A Al Najaf 11:00 OMS 226 Muscat 23:00 KIS 6032 Mashhad 12:00 AIC 975 Chennai/Goa 22:25 KAC 741 Dammam 11:20 ETD 310 Abu Dhabi 23:05 IAW 157 Al Najaf 12:00 SVA 514 Riyadh 22:30 GFA 214 Bahrain 11:25 KAC 783 Jeddah 23:15 AHY 119 Baku 12:05 KAC 786 Jeddah 22:50 JZR 221 Riyadh 12:00 JAV 622 Amman 23:15 GFA 209 Bahrain 12:05 GOW 061 CNN 23:00 JZR 213 Jeddah 12:00 KAC 383 Delhi 23:20 MSR 610 Cairo 12:25 JZR 002 LGW 23:05 AXB 890 Mangalore 12:10 KAC 411 Bangkok 23:25 UAE 871 Dubai 12:50 QTR 1092 Doha 23:10 MEA 405 Beirut 12:55 QTR 1083 Doha 23:25 QTR 1078 Doha 13:35 SVA 502 Jeddah 23:10 QTR 1075 Doha 13:00 SVA 515 Riyadh 23:25 TBZ 6605 Mashhad 13:40 MSC 411 Asyut 23:15 IAW 158 Al Najaf 13:00 KAC 543 Cairo 23:30 RBG 213 Sohag 13:45 JZR 128 Dubai 23:15 KIS 6033 Mashhad 13:00 KAC 795 Madinah 23:30 KAC 614 Bahrain 13:50 JZR 736 Cairo 23:30 JZR 115 Doha 13:00 KAC 303 Mumbai 23:40 CLX 7912 14:00 FDB 071 Dubai 23:40 GFA 210 Bahrain 13:05 GOW 062 CNN 23:55 24 Established 1961 News Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Syria regime forces recapture most of key rebel-held town BEIRUT: Regime forces yesterday recap- around 358,000 people in Syria’s north- tured most of Maaret Al-Numan, a semi- west since December, the United Nations deserted town of symbolic and strategic says. importance in Syria’s last major rebel-held In areas north of Maaret Al-Numan, bastion, state media and a war monitor said. bombardment by regime ally Russia has “The Syrian army has retaken most neigh- prompted a fresh wave of displacement in borhoods in Maaret Al-Numan” and are recent days, with hundreds of vehicles now combing recaptured areas, said state packing a key exit route towards areas near news agency SANA, shortly after the border with Turkey, according to the Damascus loyalists entered the town in the Observatory and AFP correspondents. northwest province of Idlib for the first time Most were fleeing the town of Saraqib and in eight years. the Jabal Al-Zawiya region, both located The Britain-based Syrian Observatory north of Maaret Al-Numan. Russia has for Human Rights said that most rebels and bombed areas around the main exit routes, jihadists had pulled out after regime forces despite the heavy outflow of civilians, stormed the town from multiple fronts ear- according to the Observatory. lier in the day. It said regime forces were Misty Buswell of the International left battling the few fighters that remained Rescue Committee warned that the latest holed-up in the area, which has been under escalation “will only add to the humanitari- opposition control since 2012. Maaret Al- an catastrophe that is already unfolding”. Numan, which is nearly deserted after The escalation has also sparked concern months of bombardment, lies on the M5 from rebel-supporter Turkey which oper- highway linking Damascus to Syria’s sec- ates 12 observation posts in Idlib under a ond city Aleppo, a main artery coveted by Sept 2018 deal with Russia that aimed to the regime as it tries to rekindle a mori- prevent an onslaught in the province. bund economy. Turkey warned yesterday it will retaliate It is also the second biggest urban cen- “in self-defense” if any of its army posts are ter in the beleaguered opposition bastion of threatened, while accusing the regime of HAZZANU, Syria: An aerial photo shows displaced Syrians driving through the northern countryside of Idlib after fleeing yesterday its southern Idlib. Its recapture would bring the regime “massacring innocent civilians and causing countryside towards areas further north near the border with Turkey. — AFP a step closer to taking full control of the a humanitarian tragedy”. The Observatory wider jihadist-run bastion and the M5 high- says regime troops have encircled a Turkish that region to rise up against the govern- ary fervor. The latest push to retake Regime forces, which currently control way that runs through it. Damascus loyalists observation post south of Maarat Al- ment of President Bashar Al-Assad in 2011, Maarat Al-Numan coincides with battles around 70 percent of Syria, have repeat- have since Friday seized more than 25 Numan as part as their push towards the its residents say. Dubbed “the town of the between regime forces and jihadists in the edly vowed to recapture the entire coun- towns and villages around Maaret Al- town. It is the third such post encircled by revolution”, it became a hub for demonstra- west of Aleppo province, a rebel-held area try, including Idlib and its environs. Syria’s Numan, the Observatory said. The regime’s regime forces in the region. tions in the southern part of Idlib, attracting that in mid-January became the latest front war has killed more than 380,000 people advance is part of a multi-pronged push in The Idlib region is home to three million followers from villages all around. of fighting in northwest Syria. The battles and displaced more than half the country’s northwest Syria, dominated by jihadists of people, half of whom have already been Rebels overran the town in Oct 2012, there are the most intense since regime population since starting in 2011 with the the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham alliance and their displaced from other parts of the country. attracting deadly regime air strikes on the forces forced rebels out of large swaths of brutal repression of anti-government rebel allies. The violence has displaced Maaret Al-Numan was one of the first in town but without dousing the revolution- the province in 2016. protests. — AFP

to the homeland and the amir”. He had served as prime Qatar Amir appoints minister since 2013 and led Qatar’s delegation to Trump proposes December’s Gulf Cooperation Council regional bloc summit in Riyadh. trusted confidant as... Saudi Arabia along with its allies the United Arab Palestinian state... Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt cut all diplomatic, trade, and Continued from Page 1 transport ties with Qatar in June 2017. The four nations Continued from Page 1 accused Doha of backing radical Islamists, including the “This is part of a wider trend in Qatar to become Muslim Brotherhood, and seeking closer ties with Saudi In exchange, Israel would agree to accept a four-year more meritocratic, getting the right people for the job. arch-rival Tehran - allegations Qatar vehemently denies. You need someone as head of the cabinet who can man- freeze on new settlement activity while Palestinian state- Hopes were high ahead of the summit that Sheikh hood is negotiated. age the other ministers and their egos,” he told AFP. Abdullah could secure a breakthrough and negotiate the “Abdullah bin Nasser has signalled for a while already Calling it a “historic opportunity” for the Palestinians end of what Qatar decries as a “blockade”, but the stale- to achieve an independent state, Trump said he had writ- that he wanted to resign. And I think they found a very mate has persisted. suitable successor.” ten yesterday to Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas The new premier previously worked in the gas indus- to enlist his support for the plan. “We will also work to Sheikh Tamim’s brother and head of Qatar’s Olympic try and was educated in the United States before going Committee, Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al- create a contiguous territory within the future Palestinian on to work for Sheikh Tamim when he was the crown state, for when the conditions for statehood are met, Thani, tweeted his “sincere thanks” to Sheikh Abdullah, prince, according to his official biography. Sheikh Tamim praising him for “his work for the homeland”. Sheikh including the firm rejection of terrorism,” Trump said as announced plans in November for the Gulf state’s con- he called on the Palestinians to turn their back on the Abdullah tweeted his hope that he “succeeded in bearing sultative council to be partly elected by the time the responsibility and honesty for the period of my service radical Hamas movement. nation hosts the World Cup in 2022. — AFP “I explained to (Abbas) that the territory allocated for his new state will remain open and undeveloped for a period of four years,” Trump said. “This could be the imposed a wide range of travel restrictions inside last opportunity they will ever have. Palestinians are in China fighting China, suspending long-distance bus routes and more poverty and violence, exploited by those seeking to use than 2,000 train services. them as pawns to advance terrorism and extremism,” ‘demon’ virus as... But with the death toll climbing and more fatalities the president added. “They deserve a far better life.” reported in Chinese cities far away from Wuhan, “This is a historic day,” Netanyahu said, comparing authorities yesterday urged people to delay any foreign Continued from Page 1 Trump’s peace plan to former President Harry Truman’s travel “to protect the health and safety of Chinese and 1948 recognition of the state of Israel. “On this day, you foreign people”, the National Immigration But others say local cadres had earlier been more became the first world leader to recognize Israel’s sov- Administration said. Wuhan, meanwhile, has been ereignty over areas in Judea and Samaria that are vital focused on projecting stability than responding to the turned into a near ghost-town under a lockdown that outbreak when it began to spread earlier this month. to our security and central to our heritage,” he added, has largely confined the industrial hub’s 11 million peo- using the Biblical names for the West Bank. While Since then, the number of cases has soared - doubling ple to their homes. Israel’s agreement on statehood for Palestinians is to more than 4,500 in the past 24 hours. WHO chief Israeli leaders have welcomed Trump’s long-delayed With a ban on car traffic, the streets were nearly plan, Palestinian leaders had rejected it even before its dependent on a security arrangement to protect Israelis, Tedros praised China’s response to the crisis during a deserted apart from the occasional ambulance - they said. meeting with Foreign Minister Wang Yi, according to official release, saying his administration was biased although the city’s hospitals are overwhelmed. towards Israel. Israel will also take steps to ensure Muslim access to state news agency Xinhua. “Everyone goes out wearing masks and they are wor- Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem and respect Jordan’s role The WHO last week stopped short of declaring the “Jerusalem will remain Israel’s undivided, very impor- ried about the infection,” said David, a Chinese man who tant, undivided capital,” Trump stressed. But the plan regarding holy sites, the officials said. Palestinian state- outbreak a global emergency, which could have works in Shanghai but ended up trapped in Wuhan after hood would be dependent on Palestinians taking steps prompted a more aggressive international response would also provide the Palestinians with a capital in it was put under quarantine. Many thousands of foreign- occupied East Jerusalem, he said, while indicating that for self-government, such as respect for human rights, such as travel restrictions. But global concern has been ers are also among those stuck in the city. “It’s deeply freedom of the press and having transparent and credi- growing, with Japan and Germany yesterday reporting the West Bank would not be cut in half under the plan. stressful,” Joseph Pacey, a 31-year-old Briton who Hamas immediately rejected the proposal. “We reject ble institutions, the officials said. the first human-to-human infections outside China. teaches English in Wuhan, told AFP. “The biggest fear “In doing the map it’s incredibly difficult to try to cre- Until now, all cases in more than a dozen countries this deal. We won’t accept any substitute for Jerusalem for me is that this thing will go on for months, and it will as the capital of the Palestinian state,” senior Hamas offi- ate contiguity for a Palestinian state based on what’s involved people who had been in or around Wuhan. get harder and harder to get supplies, and to live.” happened over the past 25 years so if we don’t do this In Japan, a man in his sixties contracted the virus cial Khalil Al-Hayya told AFP. Japan said it would send a chartered flight yesterday The absence of the Palestinians from Trump’s freeze now I think that their chance to ever have a state apparently after driving two groups of tourists from evening to get about a third of its 650 nationals there. basically goes away,” said one official in reference to the the city earlier in January, the health ministry said. He announcement is likely to fuel criticism that the plan tilts “We will also bring aid supplies such as masks and pro- toward Israel’s needs rather than those of the growth of Jewish settlements. “So what we’ve done is was hospitalized with flu-like symptoms on Saturday. tective suits for Chinese people as well as for Japanese basically we’ve bought four more years for them to get On the other side of the world, a 33-year-old German Palestinians, although the ambassadors from three Arab nationals,” Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said in nations - Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain - their act together and try to negotiate a deal for them to man caught the disease off a Chinese colleague from Tokyo. If the mission succeeds, Japan would be the first become a state, and I think this is a huge opportunity for Shanghai who visited Germany last week, according were at the White House. country to airlift its citizens out of Wuhan. A US-char- Israeli-Palestinian talks broke down in 2014, and it them,” the official said. to health officials. The development came after coun- tered flight bound for California is scheduled to leave The official said the question for Palestinians is will tries including Sri Lanka, Malaysia and the was far from clear that the Trump plan will resuscitate Wuhan today with consular staff and some American them. US officials said they were braced for initial they “come to the table and negotiate?” If they agree to Philippines announced tighter visa restrictions for citizens, a day later than previously planned. negotiate, there are some areas that can be compro- people coming from China. Palestinian skepticism but hoped that over time they will France and South Korea are also planning to fly out agree to negotiate. The plan places high hurdles for the mised in the future, the official said without offering Experts believe the virus came from a wild animal their citizens later this week, and several other countries, details. Trump’s plan calls for Palestinians to be able to market in Wuhan and then jumped to humans, with Palestinians to overcome to reach their long-sought goal including Germany, were considering doing the same. of a state. return to a future state of Palestine and creates a “gener- Chinese health officials saying yesterday that people The United States, Turkey and Germany have urged their ous compensation fund”, the official said. infect each other through sneezing or coughing, and It remains to be seen also how Israel responds, given citizens to “reconsider” all travel to China. Landlocked the pressures its rightwing prime minister, Netanyahu, About Israel retaining the settlements, a US official possibly through contact. Authorities initially sealed off Mongolia - which is heavily dependent on trade with said: “The plan is based on a principle that people should Wuhan and other cities in Hubei province late last faces going into his third attempt at re-election in less China - took the drastic step of closing the border with than a year. The US plan represented the most dramatic not have to move to accomplish peace ... But it does stop week, trapping more than 50 million people. China then its huge neighbor to cars, as well as shutting down future settlement expansion which we consider to be the halted international and domestic group tours. It also and detailed attempt to break the historic deadlock schools and banning large gatherings. — AFP between Israel and the Palestinians in several years, the most realistic approach. The notion that hundreds of result of a three-year effort by Trump senior advisers thousands of people, or tens of thousands of people, are in protests demanding rights for bedoons, including Jared Kushner and Avi Berkowitz and former adviser going to be removed either forcibly or not from their Ex-health minister, citizenship. The court acquitted a dozen other bedoon Jason Greenblatt. homes is just not worth entertaining.” protesters. Trump has endorsed a proposed map outlining the Before the Trump announcement, thousands of Meanwhile, Nasef yesterday criticized Minister of two states, the officials said. The Palestinian state would Palestinians demonstrated in Gaza City and Israeli troops bedoon activist... Social Affairs and Labor Ghadeer Aseeri for taking be double the size of land that Palestinians currently reinforced positions near a flashpoint site between the harsh disciplinary action against a senior ministry offi- control and would be connected by roads, bridges and Palestinian city of Ramallah and the Jewish settlement of cial. He said he will support the no-confidence motion tunnels, the official said. Trump briefed Netanyahu and Beit El in the West Bank. A Netanyahu spokesman said Continued from Page 1 the Israeli leader would fly to Moscow today to brief against the minister next week. MP Saleh Ashour his rival in Israel’s March 2 elections, Blue and White warned Finance Minister Mariam Al-Aqeel of a grilling Party chief Benny Gantz, in talks on Monday. Russian President Vladimir Putin on the proposals. Palestinian leaders had said they were not invited to sentenced a well-known stateless activist for life for not providing retired people their complete rights Asked what Washington was prepared to do to and for making controversial statements about the need advance negotiations, the officials said it was up to the Washington, and that no plan could work without them. for instigating stateless people or bedoons in Kuwait On Monday, Palestinian leader Abbas said he would not to resort to violence to obtain their rights. The to review public wages. MP Abdullah Al-Kandari yes- Palestinians to come forward and to say they are pre- terday asked Interior Minister Anas Al-Saleh about pared to negotiate. They said both Netanyahu and Gantz agree to any deal that did not secure a two-state solu- activist, Mohammad Wali Al-Enezi, is not in Kuwait tion. That formula, the basis for many years of frustrated and the sentence was issued in absentia. He has been alleged corruption in granting Kuwaiti citizenship. He had said they were willing to support the effort. Israeli asked the minister if the ministry has launched an leaders have agreed to negotiate on the basis of the international peace efforts, envisages Israel co-existing living abroad for years. The court sentenced two oth- with a Palestinian state. — Agencies er bedoons to a 10-year jail term each for taking part administrative probe into the citizenship issue. Trump plan and agreed to the map, the officials said. Established 1961 25 Sports Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Qatar crowned Asian handball champions for fourth year Japan defeat Bahrain to clinch third spot

The victorious Qatar handball team with the cup. Qatar and South Korean team in action.

By Abdellatif Sharaa Olympic Committee, who represented HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, handed the champion’s cup to the winners accompanied KUWAIT: Qatar tightened its grip on the Asia by Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, President of Qatar Handball Championship title for the fourth consecutive Olympic Committee who attended the final match. time after beating South Korea 33-21 in the final match of the 19th championship held at Sheikh Saad Indoor JAPAN IN THIRD PLACE halls complex. Japan was third in the championship by defeating Performance was level during the first half despite Bahrain 27-26 in a highly exciting and fast match, bear- having Qatar ahead in the score, as Qatari players were ing in mind that both Japan and Bahrain already quali- complying with the strict tactics dictated by their fied for the World Cup finals 2021 in Egypt. Spanish coach, especially in having the 6-0 defence, Japan’s coach said he was satisfied with the per- while not being reckless during fast breaks. formance of his team ending in third place, adding that Qatar’s Francis Mazouro was excellent and scored luck was against them in the second half in the semifinal five goals, and broke the Korean defence which relied against Korea. on the 4-2 defence plan to prevent shooting from out- He said that the bronze medal is a good incentive for side the nine meters zone. the team in preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Meanwhile, Qatar increased its lead in the second as it is still too early to prepare for the World Cup. half to 17-12, taking opportunities of intercepted balls while Qatar’s goalkeeper was at his best, and alternat- ABDELHUSSEIN: BAHRAIN ing goal keepers was also successful, that in addition to QUALIFY FOR WCUP 2021 high concentration. Bahrain’s goalkeeper Mohammad Abdelhussein said he was sad for ending in fourth place, as it was better if FAHAD AL-NASSER HANDS we won a medal. He said the Bahrain team achieved THE CUP TO THE WINNERS what is more important which qualify for the World Representative of the championship patron Sheikh Cup 2021 in Egypt. He hoped the future will be better Qatari fans cheering their players during the match. Fahad Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad, President of Kuwait for Bahrain during the upcoming events. Zimbabwe restrict Stars top Lightning in OT, stop S Lanka to edge Vasilevskiy’s winning streak DALLAS: Dallas’ Jamie Benn ty-net goal for . ahead in 2nd Test capped a two-goal night with an overtime tally as the Stars broke MAPLE LEAFS 5, HARARE: Donald Tiripano and Sikandar Raza Tampa Bay goalie Andrei PREDATORS 2 took a wicket each as Zimbabwe reduced Sri Lanka Vasilevskiy’s 10-game winning Rasmus Sandin scored his first to 122 for two in their first innings before bad light streak in a 3-2 victory over the visit- career goal to cap a two-point per- brought a premature end to the second day of the ing Lightning on Monday night. formance as visiting topped final test at the Harare Sports Club yesterday. Benn stole a clearing pass by Nashville. William Nylander scored Zimbabwe had posted 406 all out in their first Brayden Point in the extra period, a goal in his fourth consecutive con- innings and lead by 284 runs on a wicket that is and he chipped the puck past Point. test and also set up Sandin’s tally for offering little encouragement to the seamers, but He then deked Vasilevskiy for the the Maple Leafs, who posted just providing turn for the spin bowlers, which is likely unassisted winner at 2:07 of the their second win in seven games. to be the key factor in the remainder of the Test. three-on-three session. Denis Zach Hyman collected a goal and an Kusal Mendis (19 not out) and Angelo Mathews Gurianov scored, and Tyler Seguin, assist, Jason Spezza and Auston (four not out), who crafted an unbeaten double ton HARARE: Sri Lanka’s captain Dimuth Karunaratne (L) plays a shot as Zimbabwe’s Brendan Taylor (R) Esa Lindell and Blake Comeau pro- Matthews also scored goals, and looks on during the second day of the second Test cricket match between Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka duced assists for Dallas, which Frederik Andersen finished with 34 SCOREBOARD at the Harare Sports Club in Harare yesterday. — AFP improved to 16-7-2 at home and saves as Toronto avenged a pair of swept the two-game season series shutout loss to the Predators last Brief scores at close of play on the second with Tampa Bay. Stars goalie Ben season. Mikael Granlund and Viktor day of the second Test between Zimbabwe and in the first test, will resume on the third morning put a poor first day behind him as he claimed three Bishop stopped 23 shots. Steven Arvidsson scored for Nashville, and Sri Lanka at the Harare Sports Club Ground with Zimbabwe the happier of the two camps. The of the final four wickets for figures of 4-182. Stamkos notched two goals, Nikita Pekka Rinne stopped 26 shots. yesterday. home side claimed the wickets of both Sri Lanka Zimbabwe will feel well ahead in the game if Kucherov chipped in two assists, Zimbabwe 406 (S. Williams 107, S. Raza 72, openers with their scores on 44. Captain Dimuth they can pick up key wickets in the first session and Jan Rutta and Victor Hedman CAPITALS 4, CANADIENS 2 B. Taylor 62, K. Kasuza 38, C Mutombodzi 33, Karunaratne was trapped leg before wicket by off- today, having made it into the final hour on the R.Chakabva 31; L. Embuldeniya 4-182, D. de added helpers for the Lightning, Jakub Vrana and Tom Wilson spinner Raza before Oshada Fernando edged fifth day of the first test at the same venue earli- who fell to 3-6-3 against the Central each had a goal and an assist, and Silva 3-71, S. Lakmal 2-37). seamer Tiripano to wicketkeeper Regis Chakabva. er this month, only to lose by 10 wickets. It was Sri Lanka 122-2 (D. Karunaratne 44, P. Division. Vasilevskiy made 32 saves. Braden Holtby stopped 31 shots to Fernando 44) Sean Williams top-scored in the Zimbabwe first their return to the international arena having lead visiting Washington over Match situation: Sri Lanka trail Zimbabwe by innings on Monday with a superb 107 from 137 been briefly suspended by the International SHARKS 4, DUCKS 2 Montreal. Vrana now has eight goals 284 runs with eight first innings wickets in hand. balls. With the hosts resuming day two on 352 for Cricket Council last year because of government Patrick Marleau and Stefan to go along with three assists during six, Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya interference. — Reuters Noesen scored two goals each to a nine-game point streak. Travis help San Jose end a three-game los- Boyd and Nicklas Backstrom also ing streak with a win against visiting scored goals for the Capitals, who . Awarded a central contract by the Anaheim. Marleau’s first goal was won their fourth straight game while Verma takes a Indian board earlier this month, Shafali was then his 1,100th point with the Sharks. His improving their road record to an signed up by the same sports marketing company second goal moved him past Rod NHL-best 19-6-1. Jeff Petry and which represents the country’s top badminton Brind’Amour for 50th on the NHL’s Dale Weise scored goals for the short cut to player PV Sindhu and male cricketer Ravindra all-time points list (1,185). San Jose Canadiens, who had a two-game Jadeja. Her father, who runs a small jewellery shop, goalie Aaron Dell made 26 saves. win streak snapped. Carey Price fin- women’s team has been a stubborn supporter of his daughter’s Ondrej Kase scored short-handed, ished with 36 saves. cricket dream but gave her a deadline to realise it. Nick Ritchie scored on a late power NEW DELHI: Shafali Verma’s journey to become “I’d told her, ‘The first 19 years of your life are play, and John Gibson made 27 DEVILS 4, SENATORS 3 (SO) part of the India women’s cricket team began with yours — chase your dream. If you can’t make it saves for the Ducks, who lost for the Kyle Palmieri scored the tying a haircut. Growing up in Haryana, a state well big by 19, you’ll follow what I say.’” fifth time in seven games. goal late in the third period, and known for its male bias and skewed sex ratio, the Verma is well on her way to “making it big” and New Jersey prevailed in a shootout 10-year-old Verma enrolled in the Shree Ram her father is building a gym for her on the first CANUCKS 3, BLUES 1 to snap a three-game skid with a Narain Cricket Academy but was banned from floor of their modest house in Rohtak. With J.T. Miller scored twice as victory at Ottawa. Palmieri, who has playing in the male-only tournaments as organis- women wrestlers from Haryana wining medals at Vancouver extended its home-ice 13 points in 14 games, tied the ers said she might get hurt. the Olympic and Commonwealth Games, Sanjeev unbeaten streak with a win over St score at 3 when he buried a touch Frustrated but undeterred, she had a plan. “It said a wind of change was blowing through the Louis. The Canucks are 9-0-0 in pass from Jesper Bratt off a Shafali Verma was her idea,” her father Sanjeev told Reuters conservative state. their past nine home games, tying rebound with 3:21 left in regulation. from the northern city of Rohtak. “She said, ‘What “The success of Sakshi Malik and the Phogat the fourth-longest home winning Nikita Gusev and Jack Hughes then if I crop my hair? I don’t think anyone would sisters inspired many girls,” he said. “Shafali had “For some reason, parents were not very keen streak in franchise history. The scored in the shootout, and New notice I’m a girl.’” no girl to play with in the locality. Now there are to let their daughters play cricket,” her father streak has powered Vancouver to a Jersey goalie Mackenzie Thankfully for Verma, and Indian cricket, nearly 30 girls in that academy alone.” Manabendra told Reuters. “So Richa had no other 12-3-0 record in its past 15 games, Blackwood stopped attempts by nobody did. “Nobody noticed her among the boys option but to play with boys at a local club.” and to first place in the Pacific Anthony Duclair and Drake and she got important match experience,” said ‘NEVER CHICKENED OUT’ Convinced of her potential, Manabendra took Division. St Louis dropped to 0-2-1 Batherson. Blackwood finished with Sanjeev. “It was an important decision we made. Fellow 16-year-old Richa Ghosh’s story is not his daughter to Kolkata and even before reaching in its past three games. The Blues 35 saves. Marcus Hogberg stopped Her career could have been nipped in the bud.” too dissimilar. Her passion for cricket clashing with her teens she had made the state’s under-19 took their first regulation loss of the a career-high 50 shots for Ottawa, That career has now blossomed, with the 16- cultural expectations, Ghosh lacked opportunities team, eventually earning a place in the senior season (21-1-6) after scoring first in which failed in a bid to win consec- year-old Verma earning a place in the national to play in Siliguri, a bustling town nestled at the side which also had former India captain Jhulan the game. Zach Sanford scored for utive games for the first time since side for next month’s Twenty20 World Cup in foothills of the Himalayas. Goswami. — Reuters St. Louis. Bo Horvat netted an emp- Nov. 19-22. — Reuters 26 Sports Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Gordon’s career-high 50 points outburst carries Rockets past Jazz Doncic, Mavs snap Thunder’s 5-game winning streak

SALT LAKE CITY: Eric Gordon scored a career-high road win over Oklahoma City, snapping the Thunder’s 50 points, Danuel House Jr. chipped in a double-double, five-game winning streak. Doncic was just 2 of 8 from and the short-handed Houston Rockets pulled off a stun- the field in the opening quarter but 8 of 16 the rest of ning 126-117 victory over the red-hot Utah Jazz on the way. Tim Hardaway Jr. added 15 points for the Monday in Salt Lake City. With James Harden (thigh), Mavericks while Kristaps Porzingis and Delon Wright Russell Westbrook (rest) and Clint Capela (heel) all scored 14 each. Wright added a season-high 12 unavailable for the second game of a back-to-back set at rebounds. For Oklahoma City, Dennis Schroder was altitude, Gordon carried Houston with a scintillating per- forced into the starting lineup for the first time this sea- formance. The veteran guard shot 14 of 22 from the floor, son as Chris Paul missed the game one day after the drilled 6 of 11 3-point attempts and hit 16 of 20 free death of his close friend, Kobe Bryant. Paul and Bryant throws to lead the way. His three-point play through a played on two Olympic teams together. Schroder and Rudy Gobert foul extended the Houston lead to 118-105 Shai Gilgeous-Alexander were a combined 11 of 36 with 1:39 remaining and snuffed out the final hope Utah from the floor. Schroder led the Thunder with 21 points. had at capping a comeback. House added 21 points with 11 rebounds while adding five steals, and Austin Rivers CLEVELAND CAVALIERS 115 - contributed 21 points for Houston. Gobert posted 12 DETROIT PISTONS 100 points and 14 rebounds for Utah, which got 36 points Collin Sexton scored 23 points, Kevin Love sup- from Donovan Mitchell and 30 from Bojan Bogdanovic. plied 20 points (all in the first half), and Cleveland The Jazz had won 14 of their previous 15 games. snapped a seven-game losing streak by thumping host Detroit. Tristan Thompson had 17 points and 11 CHICAGO BULLS 110 - SAN ANTONIO SPURS 109 rebounds, and Alfonzo McKinnie contributed 15 points Zach LaVine hit a pair of go-ahead free throws with off the bench for Cleveland. The Cavaliers outscored 2.1 seconds remaining to cap a 23-point effort, and Detroit 65-49 in the second and third quarters. Reggie Denzel Valentine added 16 points to lift host Chicago Jackson topped the Pistons, who have lost three over San Antonio. San Antonio’s DeMar DeRozan straight, with 16 points. Andre Drummond had 15 missed the second of two free throws with 0.2 seconds points and eight rebounds for Detroit. remaining and missed a put-back try at the buzzer as SALT LAKE CITY: Mike Conley #10 of the Utah Jazz shoots the ball against the Houston Rockets at Vivint Smart the Spurs lost their third straight game. Chicago relied MIAMI HEAT 113 - ORLANDO MAGIC 92 Home Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. — AFP on seven double-figure scorers to earn successive wins Center Bam Adebayo recorded the third triple-dou- for the first time since Dec. 18-21. LaVine scored 14 ble of his career — 20 points, 10 rebounds and 10 points in the final 12 minutes to help the Bulls erase an assists — as host Miami defeated Orlando. The Heat rival Miami, was led by Nikola Vucevic’s double-dou- after an improbable rally that forced the extra session, 11-point deficit. DeRozan scored 36 points and grabbed also got 21 points from Duncan Robinson — he made 6 ble: 13 points and 12 rebounds. Aaron Gordon added 13 held off Minnesota in . Buddy Hield scored 10 rebounds while Patty Mills added 25 points for the of 9 3-point attempts — and 19 points and seven points, but just two after halftime. a career-high 42 points off the bench for the Kings, Spurs, who were without LaMarcus Aldridge (thumb). assists from Jimmy Butler, who had left Miami’s previ- including 12 during a 21-4 regulation-ending flurry that ous game with a sprained ankle. With the win, the Heat SACRAMENTO KINGS 133 - erased a 17-point deficit in the final 2:49. Andrew DALLAS MAVERICKS 107 - tied the Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers for MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES 129 (OT) Wiggins scored 36 points, including seven 3-pointers, OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER 97 best home record in the NBA (21-2). Orlando, which Nemanja Bjelica broke the fifth tie of overtime with for the Timberwolves, who set season highs for threes Luka Doncic scored 29 points to lead Dallas to a had won nine of its previous 13 games against in-state two free throws with 48.3 seconds left, and Sacramento, (23) and 3-point percentage (50 percent). — Reuters

Battling Jabeur sets Bryant tragedy new benchmark looms over Super for Arab tennis

Bowl launch HAMMAM SOUSSE: A straight sets defeat at the hands of Sofia Kenin yesterday was hardly the script that Ons Jabeur deserved but the Tunisian’s passage to the quarter- MIAMI: The death of NBA icon Kobe Bryant loomed finals of the Australian Open is already one of the stories over the build-up to the Super Bowl here Monday as of the tournament. The 25-year-old, who will break into players from the Kansas City Chiefs and the world’s top 50 after this run, saw off Johanna Konta 49ers paid tribute to the Los Angeles Lakers legend. and Caroline Garcia before putting an end to former One day after Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter and champion Caroline Wozniacki’s glittering career. seven others were killed in a helicopter crash outside Victory over Wang Qiang in the fourth round made Los Angeles, the build-up to Sunday’s NFL champi- Jabeur the first player from the Arab world ever to reach onship game in Miami cranked into gear. the last eight of a Grand Slam in the Open era. “I think I Both the Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers teams were proved that I can be in the quarter-finals in a Grand Slam, presented before thousands of journalists and fans in even if I have a lot of things to improve, probably physical- the now circus-like “opening night” event that formally ly and mentally some stuff, for sure,” Jabeur said after her kicks off Super Bowl week. But the festivities at Marlins 6-4 6-4 defeat to Kenin. Park began on a somber note, with a moment’s silence “I proved to myself that I could do a lot of great things. observed as a giant screen displayed a photo of Bryant. I’m happy that I played this way. I know sometimes I’m : Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur hits a return against Sofia Kenin of the US during their women’s singles quar- Chants of “Kobe! Kobe!” rang out towards the end hard on myself, but I think I could do better, especially ter-final match on day nine of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne yesterday. — AFP of the brief pause before numerous members of the with the moments where it’s kind of tough and stressful. Chiefs roster shared their memories of the five-time “With more experience, I will be able to handle the NBA champion. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes pressure better.” Her exploits went further than the estab- club, she joined a tennis promotion centre at her school country at the sports school of El Menzah in Tunis. “Ons said although he had never met Bryant, he continued to lished tennis world, hitting the headlines at home - where run by Nabil Mlika who coached her from a four-year-old had an exceptional technical gift,” says the former techni- be inspired by his famously ferocious competitive spir- sporting infatuation has largely been restricted to football up to 13. “Ons stood out above all for her talent and her cal director of the Tunisian federation Hichem Riani. “She it. “I wasn’t lucky enough to meet Kobe but the impact - and evincing a phone call of support from the Tunisian desire to win,” Mlika told AFP. was very lively, dynamic, friendly and sociable with a great he made in my life was huge,” the 24-year-old told president Kais Saied who described her as “an example As a 10-year-old, her sights were already set on some sense of humour.” reporters. “The work ethic, that intensity that he had to for women and young people”. “Every swing of her racket lofty goals. “Several times she told her mother: ‘One day I Her former colleague Mehdi Abid remembers a child be great every single day. honours the Tunisian flag,” he said. will get you a coffee at Roland Garros’,” says Mlika. “I who, having always dominated other girls, loved to train “Even to this day, I still watch videos on YouTube It is all a long way from the small town of Hammam took it as a bit of a joke but it seems she was very serious. with boys. “Once, she participated in a boys’ tournament the day before games, just listening to him talk, how he Sousse, near the seaside resort of Sousse, where Jabeur It’s magical.” and won matches, which demoralised some players, puts everything into perspective being great on and off first picked up a racket at the age of three. After a stint at a Aged 12, the prodigy joined the best athletes in the annoyed to be beaten by a girl,” says Mehdi. — AFP the court.” San Francisco veteran cornerback Richard Sherman — who grew up in the tough Los Angeles neighborhood of Compton — said he was left mourn- ing the loss of “a friend and a mentor.” “There’s nothing I can say that can really quantify NBA postpones his impact on myself and others,” the 31-year-old said. “I just know how he would have wanted me react in this moment and this game. Lakers game after “I was really sad yesterday, and I was really sad this morning, kind of down. But then I thought about what Kobe would tell me. And he’d probably tell me ‘Stop Bryant’s death being a baby, man up, and win this game for me.’ And that’s what I’m going to try to do on Sunday. Go out LOS ANGELES: Los Angeles Lakers players will have there and play some dominating football. Mamba men- more time to mourn the death of Kobe Bryant before tality, just like he would have wanted.” returning to the court after the NBA on Monday post- Sherman added that he expected it might take him poned yesterday’s game against the Los Angeles years to come to terms with Bryant’s death. “You don’t Clippers. The Staples Center matchup, which was to be process a shock like this in a few days. It will probably the first game on the Lakers’ home court since Lakers take me months, maybe years,” Sherman said. legend Bryant died in a helicopter crash Sunday, will be “He’s gone long before he was supposed to. And rescheduled for a later date. “The decision was made out what’s sad is he was going to end up being so much of respect for the Lakers organization, which is deeply more than basketball. An amazing father, an entrepre- grieving the tragic loss,” the NBA said in announcing a neur, a philanthropist. I’m just sad the world never got postponement. to see his full capabilities.” The next scheduled Lakers game is on Friday at Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, who had met Bryant, Staples Center against Portland. In the wake of the post- described the fallen NBA star as an “unbelievable per- ponement, the Lakers made their first public comment son.” “You can’t say enough about who he was and his since Bryant’s death, thanking fans for support while impact,” Kelce said. “I just feel bad for the Bryant fami- acknowledging the heartache involved. ly, everybody involved. My heart’s with you and every- ‘Ezallah’ wins Equestrian and “The Los Angeles Lakers would like to thank all of one here in America.” Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu you for the tremendous outpouring of support and con- admitted he was still struggling to comprehend news of Hunting Club cup dolences,” the team statement said. “This is a very diffi- Bryant’s death. “Shocked and sad,” Mathieu said. “I cult time for all of us. We continue to support the Bryant thought guys like him lived forever.” Bryant’s death hit family and will share more information as it is available.” By Abdellatif Sharaa fifth run for 1,600 meters in 1.43.5 minutes, while the horse home for Chiefs coach Andy Reid, the respected NFL Lakers star Anthony Davis, averaging 26.5 points and Ramadhan won the Arab Horse Center Cup for 1,200 veteran who grew up in Los Angeles. 9.1 rebounds a game, unveiled the depth of the grief KUWAIT: The horse “Ezallah” owned by Al-Mulla stable meters in 1.27.3 minutes in the fourth run. In the third run Reid had also become acquainted with Bryant dur- being felt over the tragedy in an Instagram posting won the Equestrian and Hunting Club Cup in the seventh for the Arab Horse Center, Pure Arab Horses, the horse ing his long association with the Philadelphia Eagles. Monday, noting how personal the loss of Bryant was run for the first class horses for 1,200 meters at the end of “Mamdouh Al-Jazeera” won the race of 1200 meters in Bryant was born in Philadelphia. “It’s sad,” Reid said. “I after Davis had been mentored by the icon. the 13th gathering horse race at the club in a time of 1.13.1 1.31.2 minutes. knew Kobe from Philly, and he was a great person. I “Man this is a tough one for me!” Davis wrote. “You minutes, followed Al-Ashras owned by Daeya, and Zaboon In the second run for second class horses for 1,200 feel bad for his family, sick for his family. “They’ll were the first guy to put me under your wing and show Al-Hard by Al-Mulla. In the sixth run for beginners for meters the horse “Sail Al-Fahaheel”, from Al-Dabbous sta- rebound. They’re strong. They’ll live up to his strength.” me the ins and outs of the league. Had so many great 1,400 meters, horse Mighbash won first place with the ble won first place in 1.13.3 minutes, while the horse Defensive end Chris Jones, meanwhile, said the tragedy convos about so many things and I will cherish those time 1.28.7 minutes, while the horse Bulldozer won the cup “Thuraya” from Abu Shaiba stable won first place in 2.13.6 had underscored the fragility of life. — AFP moments forever. Love you forever, Bean!” —AFP of Mubarak Al-Kabeer Club for the mixed horses in the in the first run for 2,000 meters. 27 Sports Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Young guns shine as Arsenal move into FA Cup fifth round Arsenal’s third win in eight matches under Arteta

BOURNEMOUTH: Mikel Arteta hailed Arsenal’s “hungry” Brazilian isn’t just a poacher and he showed his creative youngsters after Bukayo Saka and Eddie Nketiah fired vision as Arsenal made a perfect start in the fifth minute. their side into the FA Cup fifth round with a 2-1 win As a 22-pass Arsenal move approached an eye-catch- against Bournemouth on Monday. Arteta turned to youth ing crescendo, Willock’s surge opened up the at Dean Court and Saka, Nketiah and Joe Willock repaid Bournemouth defence. Willock picked out Martinelli, who the Arsenal manager’s faith with influential displays that deftly moved the ball onto Saka when a more selfish player secured a trip to third-tier Portsmouth. would have shot and he smashed a thunderous drive into Saka gave Arsenal an early lead as the 18-year-old full- the roof of the net from an acute angle. back bagged his third goal of the season with a superb Arteta had made five changes from the Chelsea match, strike. Nketiah got the second before the interval to ensure with Nketiah making his first Arsenal start since January Arteta took another step towards emulating his FA Cups last year against Blackpool in the FA Cup. triumph as an Arsenal player in 2014 and 2015. Sam Nketiah was recently recalled from a loan spell at sec- Surridge got one back for Bournemouth in the closing ond-tier Leeds over concerns he wasn’t playing enough, minutes, but it was too late to salvage a replay. “I’m very but the 20-year-old showed his potential in the 26th pleased. Always tough to come here and win, we’ve done it minute as he doubled Arsenal’s lead. with a young team as well,” Arteta said. Unable to contain Willock and Saka, Bournemouth were “I have a lot of faith in them. I think they are developing carved open as the midfielder’s pass found the defender in really well. They are willing and hungry and will only get acres of space on the left. better.” Languishing in 10th place in the Premier League Saka’s cross into the six-yard box was perfect for after failing to win any of their last three games, this was a Nketiah and he slotted in his first Arsenal goal since May. welcome boost for Arteta as Arsenal built on their hard- Completely outclassed for the first 30 minutes, fought draw at Chelsea last week. Bournemouth finally had a sight of goal when Harry It was Arsenal’s third win in eight matches under Arteta Wilson’s volley was saved by Emiliano Martinez. in all competitions, with just one defeat in that run. It was Arteta’s men didn’t have it all their own way in the sec- not all plain sailing by the seaside for Arteta, who added: ond half and Martinez took out his own player when he “We scored two fantastic goals, but after that we became clattered into Shkodran Mustafi in a bid to catch a cross. a little bit sloppy and I didn’t like that very much.” Mustafi had to be stretchered off as a result of the clash Arteta’s first match in charge of Arsenal was a 1-1 and Arteta said: “We’ll have to assess tomorrow but when Premier League draw at Bournemouth in December, but Mustafi has to come off normally it is not a good sign.” his team looked far more accomplished this time, even The hapless Martinez nearly gifted Bournemouth a goal without several key players. moments later when he missed with his attempt to punch With Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang still suspended, 18- clear, but Jack Simpson headed just wide of the empty net. BOURNEMOUTH: Arsenal’s French-born Ivorian midfielder Nicolas Pepe (C) vies with Bournemouth’s English defender year-old striker Gabriel Martinelli started for Arsenal. Surridge punished sloppy defending to tap in from Adam Smith (L) and Bournemouth’s English midfielder Lewis Cook (R) during the English FA Cup fourth round foot- Martinelli had scored in Arsenal’s past two Premier Simon Francis’ cross deep into stoppage time, but ball match between Bournemouth and Arsenal at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth, southern England. — AFP League games to reach 10 goals for the season. But the Arsenal’s rookies held on. — AFP

same month. The Chilean is now on loan at Inter , “Normally the players we could think would be Premier League but United are still paying a large part of his wages on interesting to add something for our squad — clubs a contract with two-and-a-half years left to run. are not going to sell them in January,” he said. Currently fifth in the table, United are desperately in Liverpool’s romp towards a first league title in 30 years clubs hold fire in need of reinforcements as they battle to avoid missing has been built on smart recruitment and they moved Chelsea handed out on the riches of Champions League football for a quickly to activate a £7 million release clause in January arms race second consecutive year. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Japanese international Takumi Minamino’s contract already shallow squad has been hugely impacted by with Red Bull Salzburg in December. potential Liverpool injuries to Marcus Rashford, Paul Pogba and Scott Other clubs have only been forced into the market LONDON: Premier League clubs have until Friday to McTominay. The club’s executive vice-chairman Ed by injuries. Tottenham’s search for a striker to fill in for clash in FA Cup boost their squads but there has so far been little Woodward has been the target of fans’ frustrations for the absent Harry Kane has seen the Champions desire for a spending spree from the richest league in his handling of transfers over recent years. League finalists reportedly agree a fee of around £27 the world. The slump in January spending over the past United have been in prolonged negotiations with million fee with PSV Eindhoven for Steven Bergwijn. LONDON: Premier League leaders couple of years shows that the mid-season transfer Sporting Lisbon over Portuguese international mid- However, for all of the wealth enjoyed by Premier Liverpool will face Chelsea in the FA Cup window is increasingly seen as an undesirable time to fielder Bruno Fernandes, but latest reports suggest the League clubs, for some the well has run dry after a fifth round if Jurgen Klopp’s understudies do business. Red Devils are no nearer to completing any deals series of bad investments. Everton and West Ham were win their replay against Shrewsbury. Third- Last year, the total outlay for Premier League clubs before Friday’s deadline. among eight English clubs to make the top 20 of tier Shrewsbury fought back to draw 2-2 in January was £180 million ($234 million) — nearly a “It is difficult this window — it’s always been. I Deloitte’s “Football Money League” when it comes to with Liverpool on Sunday, earning a replay third of which was what Chelsea spent on Christian can’t remember how many good deals that we’ve revenue. at Anfield that falls during the Premier Pulisic, who was loaned back to Borussia Dortmund for brought in in January,” said Solskjaer yesterday. “It’s Yet Everton posted eye-watering losses of £112 mil- League winter break. the rest of the season. very hard because the clubs don’t want to lose their lion this month, with cost-cutting needed to avoid Reds boss Klopp insists he will not use his That was down from a record £430 million splurge best players.” breaching the Premier League’s financial fair play rules senior stars for that match because he in the 2018 mid-season window, when there were a Liverpool’s 16-point lead over Manchester City at next year. West Ham’s perilous position just outside the doesn’t want to deny them a much-needed series of big-name moves including Virgil van Dijk, the top of the table has lessened the need for either relegation zone on goal difference is normally one that rest. To earn a trip to Stamford Bridge, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Aymeric Laporte. side to bolster their squads for a title fight. City boss induces panic buying. But after a net spend of £214 Liverpool may play the youngsters who were However, the success of those signings has tended Pep Guardiola has stated for the past few months that million on players over the past four years, on Tuesday beaten by Aston Villa in the League Cup to be the exception rather than the rule in a seller’s his club would not do business in January despite a they announced significant losses for the year to May quarter-finals while the Reds were at the market in January. Manchester United are still counting chance to shore up his defence before the Champions 31, 2019 and warned of “serious financial conse- Club World Cup. the cost of their lavish outlay on Alexis Sanchez in the League knockout stages. quences” should they be relegated. — AFP FA Cup holders Manchester City have been given a trip to second-tier Sheffield today. Manchester United will visit the win- ners of the replay between Northampton and Solskjaer seeks spirit of PSG as Man Utd prepare to face Man City Derby, who feature former United star Wayne Rooney in their squad. Oxford’s reward for a replay victory over LONDON: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says doubt for the second leg in a press confer- top-flight Newcastle would be a trip to Manchester United need to harness the spir- ence that included plenty of transfer talk but Championship leaders West Brom. League it of Paris Saint-Germain and put in a “per- no updates. Sporting midfielder Bruno One side Portsmouth will face Premier fect performance” if they are to overcome Fernandes reportedly remains a target for League opposition at Fratton Park after Manchester City and reach the League Cup the club, while a number of enquiries have being drawn against Bournemouth or final. United face an uphill battle after losing been made as United look at possible the first leg of their semi-final against Pep attacking options. Arsenal. Guardiola’s men 3-1 at Old Trafford. Marcus Alexis Sanchez would have been an Southampton or Tottenham will play host Rashford’s goal gives United a glimmer of option but does not have a recall clause in to struggling Norwich, while either Coventry hope heading to the Etihad Stadium today his loan deal, although Solskjaer expects him or Birmingham face a short trip to Leicester. and Solskjaer said the stunning comeback to have an Old Trafford future when he Championship sides Reading and Cardiff will win against PSG in the Champions League returns from Inter Milan at the end of the battle it out in a replay for the chance to host last March can be an inspiration. season. “We’ve got players here we’re Sheffield United. United were 2-0 down after the first leg working hard to get back as well and if there and then 3-1 down on aggregate in Paris is something out there, then the club are FA Cup fifth-round draw: before storming back to win on away goals. pursuing that and looking at it,” said the Sheffield Wednesday v Manchester City “Well, it looked like it was over at half- United boss. Reading/Cardiff v Sheffield United time,” he said, referring to the first leg of the “Of course it is a difficult window. It Chelsea v Shrewsbury/Liverpool City match. “I have to say the second part always has been. I can’t remember how West Brom v Newcastle/Oxford of that first half, they outplayed us for a many good ones we’ve brought in, good Leicester v Coventry/Birmingham while and it’s hard. deals that we’ve brought in in January. “But then when we got the goal, of Henrik (Larsson) was good, Nemanja (Vidic) Northampton/Derby v Man Utd course you’re back in it, we hope for anoth- and Patrice (Evra) were two good ones.” Southampton/Tottenham v Norwich er one. When January 2018 signing Sanchez was Portsmouth v Bournemouth/Arsenal. —AFP “But now we’ve got to go into the memo- mentioned, Solskjaer said: “It’s very hard ry bank and think PSG because we’ve done because the clubs don’t want to lose their it against good teams before and it gives us best players. Alexis will come back in the some hope, and the game in December summer and prove you all wrong.” (when United won 2-1 against City) of Solskjaer expects defender Marcos Rojo course gives us hope that we can do some- to stay at Old Trafford despite speculation Matches on TV thing there.” over a move to former club Estudiantes de (Local Timings) Solskjaer confirmed Nemanja Matic is a la Plata. — AFP Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE who has today completed a transfer to Inter Milan,” Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho praised the Inter Milan sign Tottenham said in a statement. “We wish you all the Dane’s professionalism, but expressed frustration at the West Ham United v Liverpool 22:45 best for the future.” Eriksen made 305 appearance for timing of the move after weeks of negotiations between beIN Sports Spurs after joining from Ajax in 2013, scoring 69 goals. the clubs. “The only thing I can say is Eriksen, since I Eriksen from Tottenham also confirmed the permanent signing of arrive, he is behaving in a very, very professional way, Giovani Lo Celso from Real Betis to replace Eriksen with me and the team,” Mourinho said after Saturday’s ITALIAN CUP Tottenham yesterday. Eriksen was a key part of the side that 1-1 draw at Southampton. reached last season’s Champions League final and fin- “Tottenham is the last one to blame for this situa- Internazionale Milano v ACF Fiorentina 22:45 ished in the top four of the Premier League for the past tion.” Eriksen becomes Inter’s third signing of the beIN Sports MILAN: Inter Milan completed the signing of Danish four seasons under Mauricio Pochettino. January window after the arrivals of Ashley Young from international midfielder Christian Eriksen from However, a contract standoff with the club meant a Manchester United and Victor Moses on loan from Tottenham Hotspur yesterday. Eriksen, 27, has signed a departure was inevitable either this month or on a free Chelsea as they aim to end Juventus’ stranglehold on ENGLISH LEAGUE CUP contact until 2024 with the Italian giants after the clubs transfer at the end of the season. Eriksen expressed his the Serie A title. reached an agreement for a reported transfer fee of 20 desire to move at the end of last season and was jeered Antonio Conte’s men are three points behind Juve at Manchester City v Manchester United 22:45 million euros (£17 million, $22 million). by some Spurs fans in recent games as speculation over the top of the table, but their title challenge has stum- “We can confirm the departure of Christian Eriksen his future grew. bled of late with three consecutive draws. — AFP beIN Sports HD 2 Established 1961 Sport

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29, 2020

Qatar crowned Asian handball Gordon’s career-high 50 points Young guns shine as Arsenal 25champions for fourth year 26 outburst carries Rockets past Jazz 27 move into FA Cup fifth round

Federer wins to set up Djokovic semi

MELBOURNE: Swiss great Roger Federer said “I revealing that he thought his groin strain had ended his believe in miracles” after he saved seven match points chances. “There could be rain, there could be all kinds in a five-set nail-biter against 100th-ranked Tennys of stuff. Sandgren to go into an Australian Open semi-final with “(I thought) just let him finish me off in style, and he Novak Djokovic yesterday. didn’t do that. I’m incredibly lucky tonight, today — I The six-time champion, struggling physically, saved don’t even know what time it is.” Sandgren, achingly three match points at 4-5 in the fourth set and four close to becoming the lowest-ranked player to beat more in the tie-breaker to scrape through 6-3, 2-6, 2-6, Federer at the Australian Open, can count himself 7-6 (10/8), 6-3. Federer, 38, now goes into an unmiss- unlucky especially after a ball girl accidentally collided able semi-final with Djokovic, who blunted Milos with him during the pivotal tie-breaker, which he lost. Raonic’s razor serve to win 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (7/1) and Federer has made heavy weather of reaching his move two wins from an eighth Melbourne title. 46th Major semi-final. He was two points from defeat Djokovic, despite trouble with his contact lenses, by John Millman in a fifth-set tie-breaker in round ended Raonic’s run of 63 straight games in the tourna- three, and dropped a set against 67th-ranked Marton ment without a break of serve and moves smoothly into Fucsovics in round four. the semis for the loss of just one set so far. In the women’s draw Australia’s world number one He paid tribute to the great escape by Federer, Ashleigh Barty dismissed two-time Wimbledon cham- ahead of a semi-final that reprises his epic win over the pion Petra Kvitova in impressive style to reach the Swiss in last year’s Wimbledon decider. “What he did semis for the first time. The unflappable Barty beat the today was really amazing, to come back and save seven Czech 7-6 (8/6), 6-2 and will be favourite in her semi- MELBOURNE: Switzerland’s Roger Federer hits a return against Tennys Sandgren of the US during their men’s match points at his age,” Djokovic said. final against America’s Sofia Kenin — sending hopes singles quater-final match on day nine of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne yesterday. —AFP “He’s still playing such a great tennis and proving soaring of a first home winner in 42 years. that he deserves to be up there. He’s a great fighter. The French Open champion, who once quit tennis to second-highest American behind Serena Williams. Jabeur has ignited interest back home with her run Obviously I have lots of respect for him.” Federer’s play cricket and has been steadily rising since her The feisty 21-year-old was a 6-4, 6-4 winner over to the last eight, even receiving a good-luck phone call match was incident-packed and he received a rare return, is the tournament’s poster girl with her image Ons Jabeur, halting the Tunisian’s historic run which from her president. “I think I proved that I can be in the warning for an audible obscenity before going off- plastered all over Melbourne. made her the first Arab woman to reach a Major quar- quarter-finals in a Grand Slam, even if I have a lot of court for treatment on a groin injury. But she said: “I’d prefer to just be sitting at home just ter-final. “She’s a really tough player, I knew she’s going things to improve physically and mentally,” said the 25- Still hampered by the injury, he somehow forced a living my quiet little life.” Kenin, whose career is also on to come out playing strong,” Kenin said. “She’s had year-old, who will now move inside the top 50. “I fifth set and began to regain control against the big- the up, made her first Grand Slam semi-final and with it really good matches, good wins. It wasn’t an easy battle proved to myself that I could do a lot of great things. serving American. “I believe in miracles,” Federer said, will rise to at least 12 in the rankings — making her the — all respect to her.” I’m happy that I played this way.” — AFP