THULHIJJA 6, 1440 AH WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2019

28 Pages Max 48º Min 32º 150 Fils Established 1961

ISSUE NO: 17902 The First Daily in the Arabian Gulf www.kuwaittimes.net

Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center India hails ‘historic’ Kashmir Sudan political deal defuses Neymar speculation lingers as 3 initiates children music school 9 rule, Pak vows to back region 24 threat of ‘slide into chaos’ 27 PSG aim to shatter glass ceiling

Iran ‘favors’ talks with US, but warns of ‘mother of all wars’

Tehran unveils three new precision-guided missiles

TEHRAN: Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said yes- Iran. We are not sure Iran wants to have that discus- terday that Iran favors talks with the US if it lifts sanc- sion,” he said in answer to a question from AFP on the tions against the Islamic republic, despite his top diplo- sidelines of a conference in Geneva. mat turning down a meeting with US President Donald However Rouhani described as “weird” the US Trump. Rouhani said “peace with Iran is the mother of approach of calling for negotiations and then slapping all peace” and “war with Iran is the mother of all wars” sanctions on Zarif. “So how should we negotiate?” he as he defended a landmark 2015 nuclear deal between said yesterday. “The person in charge of negotiations is Iran and world powers. the foreign minister. He must talk to you.” Trump has said “Iran favors talks and negotiations and, if the US publicly several times he is willing to hold talks with Iran really wants to talk, before anything else it should lift all even as he lambasts its leadership as corrupt, incompe- sanctions,” Rouhani said in remarks aired live on state tent and a threat to regional security and US interests. television. Tensions between Iran and the US have been Twelve months on from the US withdrawal, Iran rising since Trump unilaterally withdrew the US from responded by suspending some of its commitments the nuclear deal in May 2018 and began imposing sanc- under the nuclear deal. The situation threatened to spi- tions on it as part of a “maximum pressure” campaign. ral out of control with ships attacked, drones downed Rouhani, speaking after meeting with his top diplo- and oil tankers seized. At the height of the crisis, Trump mat, Mohammad Javad Zarif, said Iran was ready for called off air strikes against Iran at the last minute in talks regardless of whether or not the US was party to June after its forces shot down a US drone. the deal. “Whether they want to come into the JCPOA Rouhani, with Zarif sitting beside him, defended the or not, it’s up to them,” said Rouhani, referring to the foreign minister who has faced criticism from hardliners accord known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan over his role in the deal ultimately abandoned by the of Action. “All sanctions should be lifted so that there Americans. “We had so many economic victories (in the will be no criminals facing us,” he said, accusing the US wake of the deal) that it enraged some people,” he said. of committing acts of “economic terrorism” for blocking Rouhani said the US made a mistake when it thought food and medicine imports. “everything will be over” for Iran after “some planned a In response, the US ambassador on disarmament street riot” in Dec 2017. TEHRAN: This handout picture released yesterday shows Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Robert Wood said: “Iran simply needs to make up its At that time, Iran was rocked by days of deadly Hatami (center left) standing by the missiles “Balaban” (left), “Ghaem” (bottom) and “Yasin” (right) during an mind to decide what it wants to do”. “My president has protests reportedly sparked by austerity measures. unveiling ceremony. — AFP said he is willing to sit down and have a discussion with Continued on Page 24

Nobel laureate Lebanese kick up Toni Morrison stink over smell fix dies aged 88 for garbage woes NEW YORK: Toni BEIRUT: Sitting at a plastic table outside her flatbread Morrison, the first sandwich shop in the Lebanese capital, Nadime African-American woman Yazbeck says she wishes the government would deal to win the Nobel Prize for with the stench from the local trash dump. “They really Literature and one of need to find a solution to these smells,” said the 66- America’s best loved writ- year-old Beirut resident, in a spotless white t-shirt and ers, has died following a hair net. Four years after a garbage crisis sparked polit- brief illness, her family ical protests in Lebanon, the stench of trash is back and said in a statement yes- government plans to quell the smell have only triggered terday. She was 88. demands for better waste management. Barack Obama - who In Yazbeck’s neighborhood of Bourj Hammoud, a awarded Morrison the seaside landfill that reopened to solve the 2015 crisis Presidential Medal of Freedom - led the trib- Toni Morrison will be full by the end of the summer. Near the airport, utes, describing her as “a another overwhelmed landfill is to start refusing waste national treasure, as good a storyteller, as captivat- from neighboring areas in protest. On and off for more ing, in person as she was on the page”. “Her writing than a year, the acrid smell of decomposing refuse has was a beautiful, meaningful challenge to our con- wafted into homes and businesses in the capital. Even science and our moral imagination. What a gift to kilometres away from landfills, residents have raced to breathe the same air as her, if only for a while,” the close windows to keep out the stink. BEIRUT: This file photo taken on Aug 16, 2017 shows a general view of the Bourj Hammoud fishing port, in former US president wrote on Twitter. Continued on Page 24 front of a large landfill dump (background). — AFP Morrison wrote 11 novels, many of them touching on life as a black American, in a glittering literary and award-laden career that lasted over six decades. She also penned numerous essays, poems and High steaks: Brazil inmate dead Continued on Page 24 Cows go from after foiled escape

News in brief roofs to plates dressed as woman KARACHI: Syed Ejaz Hassan’s RIO DE JANEIRO: A Three pedestrians killed annual ritual in Pakistan’s megacity Brazilian drug trafficker, of Karachi has kicked off, which will who had attempted to KUWAIT: Three Asian pedestrians were killed see his cows transported from a escape from prison dis- and four others were critically injured in a horrific roof to plates over the coming days guised as his teenage accident at the entrance of Mubarak Al-Abdullah ahead of next week’s Eid Al-Adha daughter, was found dead from King Fahd Road. The motorist who ran over holiday. Muslims slaughter an animal in his cell yesterday, offi- them is a 21-year-old Kuwaiti, who was arrested - a goat, sheep, cow, or camel - on cials said. Clauvino da Silva, and is being questioned. — By Hanan Al-Saadoun the annual festival in a ritual that nicknamed “Shorty” or stems from the story of the Prophet “Baixinho” in Portuguese, Abraham (PBUH), commanded by KARACHI: A man stands on a bull being lowered with a crane from a roof of made headlines after he Degree authentication a must God to slaughter his beloved son a building in preparation for Eid Al-Adha on Aug 4, 2019. — AFP was caught Saturday trying Ismail (PBUH). The meat is then dis- to walk out the front door KUWAIT: The Civil Service Commission issued a tributed in equal parts to the poor, - the roof of his four-floor building animals which we have raised”, he of a Rio de Janeiro jail. Da Brazilian inmate Clauvino circular to government departments asking all to relatives, and consumed by the is the only place with enough space adds. While thousands of animals Silva, 42, wore a silicon da Silva wears a wig and Kuwait and expat employees to submit their family themselves. for the hay and troughs necessary will be slaughtered next week to mask, long dark wig, glass- mask after he was captured degrees and certificates - approved by concerned In Karachi alone, nearly half a to raise the half dozen cattle he celebrate Eid, livestock sellers and es, white flip flops and the on Aug 3, 2019. — AFP authorities - to prove they are authentic. Sources million cows, goats and camels will hopes to sell for a profit before Eid. customers still prefer to add a bit of clothes, including pink T- said the CSC directed expat employees to go to be sold or sacrificed during the holi- Once the animals are fattened, flamboyance to their purchases, shirt, blue denim jeans and black bra, belonging to his the education ministry to authenticate their day. But in the sprawling city of cranes are then used to bring the outfitting their animals with leg 19-year-old daughter, who was visiting him. She had degrees, and those who do not do so will be termi- around 20 million, notorious for its animals down from the rooftop to bracelets or flowers necklaces while planned to stay behind while he made his getaway. nated. Sources expected next year will see many gridlocked traffic, dense neighbor- the streets - amusing pedestrians others are dyed with henna. Da Silva, who was serving a 73-year jail sentence, terminations of expat employees and the cancella- hoods and woeful lack of green watching from below. “We raised But amongst the lively and chaot- was caught after guards noticed he looked “suspi- tion of allowances from Kuwaitis for not submitting space, some roofs are transformed them with love and care,” says the ic atmosphere in Karachi’s livestock cious”. His daughter and seven other visitors were authenticated certificates. — A Saleh (See Page 4) into temporary livestock pens ahead 56-year-old Hassan. Even if it is markets are bitter negotiations. detained over the foiled breakout. of Eid. For Hassan - an entrepreneur necessary, “it hurts to sacrifice these Continued on Page 24 Continued on Page 24 2 Established 1961 Local Wednesday, August 7, 2019

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets with His Highness Sheikh His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets with His Highness the Prime Minister Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. — Amiri Diwan photos Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. Amir receives Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak, Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad at Bayan Palace

Premier cables Egyptian counterpart, voicing sorrow for terrorist attack casualties

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- also expressed support for all measures that may be Ghanem also commiserated with his Egyptian coun- the international community to double its efforts to Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received His Highness taken by the Egyptian authorities to face such ter- terparts the loss of life and injuries in the “terror” bring an end to this dangerous phenomenon. The Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah at rorist acts. He prayed that His Almighty Allah may attack outside central Cairo’s National Cancer source expressed condolences to the victims’ families Bayan Palace yesterday. His Highness also received Institute. This came in a cable addressed to Egypt’s and wished quick recovery for the injured. His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al- Speaker of the House of Representatives Ali Abdel In the meantime, GCC Secretary General Dr Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. Aal, in which the Kuwaiti parliament chief fiercely Abdullatif Al-Zayani strongly condemned the terrorist In other news, His Highness the Prime Minister condemned the act, which targeted the innocent. blast that happened opposite the National Cancer Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah Ghanem expressed his total solidarity with the Institute in the Egyptian capital. In a press release, addressed a cable to his Egyptian counterpart Dr Kuwait strongly Egyptian people and his full support of measures Zayani described the deadly explosion a brutal act Mustafa Madbouli, expressing condolences on condemns taken by authorities to ensure the country’s safety against all human principles and ethics, adding that deaths inflicted in the terrorist incident that hap- and stability. he has high hopes for the Egyptian security officials pened opposite the National Cancer Institute in the Cairo blast Kuwait strongly condemns Sunday’s terrorist blast to capture perpetrators. Zayani denounced the Egyptian capital. His Highness the Prime Minister which left dozens of casualties near the National heinous act and stressed the vital role of international strongly condemned the blatant, criminal act that Cancer Institute in Al-Qasr Al-Aini district in Cairo, community to fight against terrorism. GCC chief claimed lives of innocent people; an act that is said an official source in the Foreign Ministry. The offered his condolences to the Egyptian government rejected by all heavenly tenets and humanitarian val- official source reiterated Kuwait’s principled and firm and victims’ families and wished the injured speedy ues. His Highness affirmed the State of Kuwait’s bestow His mercy upon the souls of the deceased rejection of terrorism and violence, as well as solidari- recovery. At least 20 people were killed and 47 oth- unwavering stance in rejecting all forms of terrorism, and wished the injured quick recuperation. ty with Egypt in its measures to counter terrorism and ers injured in the explosion outside Egypt’s National standing alongside the sisterly Republic of Egypt. He Kuwait’s National Assembly Speaker Marzouq Al- establishing security and stability. The source urged Cancer Institute in central Cairo. — KUNA Defense Minister receives call from Iranian counterpart

KUWAIT: First Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah received yesterday a phone call from Iranian Defense Minister Amir Hatami, discussing means of boosting bilateral relations between the two countries. The Iranian Minister of Defense congratulated Sheikh Sheikh Nasser Sabah Nasser Al-Sabah on Eid Al-Adha, wishing him full Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah Amir Hatami health and well-being and Kuwait more progress and prosperity, in addition to inviting him to visit the Islamic Republic of Iran. In turn, the First Deputy invitation to visit the Islamic Republic of Iran and Prime Minister and Minister of Defense thanked his wishing further progress for the relations between Iranian counterpart for the call, praising his generous the two countries. —KUNA

cussed with Kyrgyz Ambassador to Kuwait Info Minister, Smargol Adamkulova ways to enhance Kuwaiti- Kyrgyz ties. During the meeting yesterday, Jabri stressed the need to activate cooperation agree- Kyrgyz envoy ments in the field of agriculture and food security for the benefit of the two countries, the ministry discuss ties said in a statement. Jabri has also welcomed an official invitation to visit the Republic of KUWAIT: Minister of Information and Minister of Kyrgyzstan to learn about the Kyrgyz experience in State for Youth Affairs Mohammad Al-Jabri dis- several fields. — KUNA

highest level since 2013 when it has recently hit $1,475 Gold prices up, oz, buoyed by a weak US Dollar and investors’ inclina- tion toward bourses and global stocks. The US Federal Reserve policy of trimming the interest rate will most expected to certainly push the precious metal price higher than the $1,500 oz, according to the Sabayek Company’s report. climb further Continuing commercial war between the US and China will lead to higher commodity prices, thus the US Dollar value is forecast to drop, the report said, indi- KUWAIT: The US Federal Reserve’s recent decision cating that this situation would “serve the yellow metal to slash interest rate on the US Dollar and ongoing and cause it to climb in the coming days.” Locally, sales trade war between Washington and Beijing contributed in July were low with upcoming summer vacation and to lifting gold prices in the past two days from $1,400 the Eid Al-Adha, in addition to hike in global prices due to $1,475 per ounce. A report issued yesterday by the to geopolitical factors in East Asia, as well as the global Kuwaiti Sabayek company for precious metals said that trade war. The report says the prices in the local market gold price, according to “most investors,” would will remain low due to investors’ jitters and anticipa- exceed $1,500 oz. The yellow metal’s rate reached the tions. — KUNA Established 1961 3 Local Wednesday, August 7, 2019

A girl plays the violin. A boy trains on the Oud. Kuwait’s Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center initiates Children Music School Professional multinational teachers provide children the opportunity to learn music

KUWAIT: Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Eastern Takht, Oud, Ney, Qanun and Middle Center announced yesterday the opening of a Eastern violin. The music school will embrace Music School for Children to develop their children’s musical talents, introducing contem- musical skills starting from September. porary and effective musical styles. The Jaber Inauguration of the Music School will be in con- Al-Ahmad Cultural Center aims to nurture the junction with the launch of the center’s 2019- musical scene as well as establishing children’s 2020 third cultural season and comes as part of orchestra to highlight Kuwait’s music scene, it the center officials’ efforts to sponsor talent, stated. The first scholastic year will start on creativity and arts, said the Cultural Center in a September 15 and proceed until December 19. statement. Educational curriculum in the school Anyone interested to join can do so by visiting will be taught by professional teachers from the center’s official website (www.jacc-kw.com). various countries to provide children, aged six The Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center, to 12, the opportunity to learn music, the state- informally known as the Kuwait Opera House, is ment added. It will offer Western, Arabic music a prominent cultural center in Kuwait, located and multi-level programs for training on on the Gulf Road in the capital Kuwait City. It is Western instruments such as violin, viola, cello, the largest cultural center and opera house in Children learn how to play the Qanun. flute, clarinet and piano, in addition to Middle the Middle East. — KUNA

achieve sustainability and positively Burgan Bank impact the future of a country, corporate social responsibility has become a national duty that both advances and sponsors Ahmadi empowers its citizens. As a financial pow- erhouse and aspiring leader in the bank- community ing industry, we believe it is essential to foster the combined efforts of public and private entities to achieve real change initiatives and complete community well-being.” KUWAIT: Maintaining its long-standing Ahmad Al-Mulla, Director of Public partnership with the Al-Ahmadi Relations and Media at Al-Ahmadi Governorate, Burgan Bank recently Governorate, commended the positive announced its support of their year-long role of the banking sector, specifically community initiatives. Dedicated to the Burgan Bank who is both a financial pow- betterment of the society across all spec- erhouse and keen contributor to sustain- trums, the bank’s commitment falls under ability through its several noteworthy ini- its social responsibility to serve the resi- tiatives in Kuwait. He added that Al- dents of the areas within which it oper- Ahmadi enjoys a long history of impactful ates in. programs and community initiatives and Accommodating every citizen with the is driven by the belief that greater coop- required banking products and services, eration and continued collaborations Burgan Bank retains its strong relation- between the official, civil authorities and ship and presence in the Al-Ahmadi dis- voluntary organizations will achieve opti- trict with five branches. As a leading mal benefits for the society. financial partner that has successfully The bank’s support of this initiative expanded its network among one of the falls under its dynamic full-fledged com- largest segments in Kuwait, the bank munity program entitled ‘ENGAGE’ - facilitates everyone’s needs with a com- Together to be the change. This program prehensive suite of offerings backed by sheds light on important aspects affect- premium customer support. ing every segment of the society by pro- Hessa Hussain Al-Najadah, Manager- moting social welfare through educa- External Affairs at Burgan Bank said: tional, cultural and health driven initia- “Burgan Bank is proud to contribute to tives. Burgan Bank’s approach to the development of the Al-Ahmadi com- ‘ENGAGE’ begins with a vital principle munity as it is an integral part of our that as a leading Kuwaiti financial insti- strategic vision and reflection of our val- tution, its conduct and policies should ues - of trust, commitment, excellence be aligned with the needs and interests and progression. Today, in order to of the community.

(From left) Khaled Al-Mulla, Majed Al-Ajeel, Sheikh Fawaz Al-Khalid Al-Sabah and Hessa Hussain Al-Najadah.

crossing would contribute to increasing Border crossing trade between Iraq and Kuwait. This came during a meeting involving the minister and other Iraqi officials, includ- to boost trade ing Interior Minister Yassin Al-Yasiri and the Governor of Basra, read a min- with Kuwait: istry statement. The minister urged that the project be completed with haste due to the job opportunities the port Iraqi minister would provide the Basra community. Recently, Trade Minister Al-Ani met with his Kuwaiti counterpart Khaled Al- BAGHDAD: Iraqi Trade Minister Roudhan at the border to agree the Mohammed Al-Ani said on Monday that development of trade relations the the development and rehabilitation of preparation of a comprehensive plan for the joint Safwan-Al-Abdali border the port’s construction. —KUNA 4 Local Wednesday, August 7, 2019 Audit Bureau demands action to verify state employees’ academic qualifications Expat employees must authenticate degrees or face termination By A Saleh will be terminated. They said the CSC will appoint teams to follow the approved certificates in coordination with News in brief KUWAIT: The Civil Service Commission (CSC) received government bodies and the ministry of higher education, several notes from the State Audit Bureau about the mech- including for employees who were previously appointed. anism of employee appointments and approving financial New fish auction timings allowances for those having university degrees. It called for immediate action towards these notes in order to save KUWAIT: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry public funds and protect the administrative apparatus from Efforts to issued a circular in which it decided the time for local forgers, be they citizens or expats. fish auction to be after Asr prayers and imported fish Informed sources said the CSC began practical meas- save public after Esha prayers. The new timings will be in effect ures to deal with the remarks, as it issued a circular to from Aug 18. — By A Saleh government departments asking all Kuwaiti and expatriate funds employees must submit their degrees and certificates after being approved by concerned authorities to prove they Selective tax to cut obesity are authentic. They said this circular includes Kuwaitis’ degrees received from abroad, be they diplomas, graduate KUWAIT: Correspondence among government authori- or postgraduate degrees, as well as expats who were ties showed that implementation of selective tax in appointed based on their degrees without being approved Sources expected next year will see many decisions to ter- Kuwait will reduce obesity and smoking by nearly 25 by the ministry of higher education. minate expat employees for not submitting authenticated percent during the next five years. Selective tax is an The sources said the CSC started by asking expat certificates and the cancellation of allowance from indirect tax that the end user bears as the value of tax- employees to go to the ministry of higher education to Kuwaitis who received them because of bogus certificates ing products that are harmful to public health or envi- authenticate their degrees, and those who do not do so or those issued by unrecognized universities. The Civil Service Commission ronment, and they are mainly related to tobacco prod- ucts, energy drinks and fizzy drinks, without affecting basic needs. Sources said the most important gains from implementing the selective tax in Kuwait, if approved, will be a drop in obesity and smoking rates by 10 to 20 percent by 2023. Finance Minister Nayef Al-Hajraf said Fire at disabled this tax has a health dimension, adding the health min- istry monitors the negative effects resulting from con- club in Hawally suming the three abovementioned products on the indi- vidual’s health, and stressed this tax does not aim at By Hanan Al-Saadoun improving state revenues as much as it is directed at protecting health. — Al-Rai KUWAIT: Hawally and Salmiya fire stations responded to a call about a fire at the Kuwait Disabled Sports Club in Hawally. The fire started in a kitchen adjacent to the main No IDs for ‘bachelors’ building, which was evacuated and the fire was put out. No injuries were reported in the incident, and an investigation KUWAIT: Kuwait Municipality Director General Ahmad was opened to reveal the cause of the fire. Al-Manfouhi explained the current procedures in coop- eration with other government bodies to evict “bache- lors” from private and model residence areas. Manfouhi said in a video display at the ministerial committee of the Council of Ministers that the government asked the Public Authority for Civil Information to take necessary action to prevent issuance of civil IDs to single men for any address within private residence areas. He said there were previous government recommendations to allocate land to build temporary residence for company workers. He added the Cabinet asked the Public Authority for Manpower to coordinate with all govern- ment authorities to allow contracted companies to pro- vide suitable residences for their workers within the area allocated for the project until the labor cities are ready. — Al-Rai

3,100 conscription evaders prosecuted KUWAIT: The defense ministry has sent 3,100 Kuwaitis to courts for evading compulsory military service, Al-Qabas daily reported yester- day. Informed sources said 1,000 of those are youth who did not report from January until July 2019, while 2,100 did not report last year. Sources said sentences were issued against 600 citizens vary- ing between one week in jail and KD 100 to KD 500 in fines.

Nurse beaten A nurse at Jahra hospital accused two Kuwaitis of beating her and gave police their information. Both are being summoned for question- ing, Al-Rai reported. The 27-year-old nurse submitted a medical report stating injuries on her left shoulder. She said that an argument took place between her and two female relatives of a patient, who attacked her.

Family problems A 21-year-old Kuwaiti complained against his father for beating him, and gave police a medical report stating his injuries, reported Al- Rai. Police will summon the father for questioning. Meanwhile, a Kuwaiti man lodged a complaint against his son for beating him. The son also verbally insulted his father before escaping, according to the police report. The father gave police a medical report. Detectives are looking for the son for questioning and he may face legal action.

Indecent language A Kuwaiti man complained against his ex-wife, accusing her of insulting him through an SMS that contained indecent language, and gave them a copy of the messages. The woman is being summoned for questioning.

Accident A Kuwaiti man was sent to Ahmadi police station as a complaint was lodged against him after a car he was driving collided with the gate of an oil facility. Initial investigations revealed that the collision was an accident.A thief climbed over the fence of a Kuwaiti’s house, stole valuables and escaped, reported Al-Rai. The citizen was out of his house along with his family, and when he returned, discovered some belongings were missing, although there was no sign of a break in. He went to the police station and lodged a complaint. Detectives are working on the case.

Air gun found A security guard handed police an air gun he found it in the toilet of a popular Fahaheel mall. A police source said the security guard, while inspecting the parking lot, noticed the weapon in the toilet across from the parking. He called police, who arrived at the scene and took the weapon.

Debtor’s watch confiscated A judge at an implementation department ordered the confiscation of a debtor’s watch to sell in a public auction to give the creditor com- pany its value, Al-Anbaa daily reported yesterday. An informed source said a man told the judge that he is in debt of KD 200,000, had paid KD 100,000, and wanted to settle the remaining KD 100,000 over five years. The source said the judge noticed the debtor was wearing an expensive watch, so he asked him about the watch’s value. He told him it is worth KD 80,000, so the judge asked policemen to take the watch from him to be sold in an auction.

Theft Forensic men went to the premises of a sports committee in Nuwaiseeb following theft of gliders and wireless pieces, Al-Anbaa reported. A Kuwaiti authorized by the sports committee told them the KUWAIT: Municipality Capital branch’s head of emergency team Zaid Al-Enezi said that a campaign resulted in issuing warnings to violating properties in Qibla over eight gliders were in a 14-m-long container, which was locked. Fire makeshift rooms and stores without licenses, in addition to constructions that exceeded the licensed areas. walkie-talkies were also missing, along with three wings and two plane seats. Established 1961 5 Local Wednesday, August 7, 2019

Photo of the Day

KUWAIT: An aerial view of Kuwait City. — Photo by Fahad Al-Otaibi (KUNA) Gulf hajj meeting aims to benefit from various experiences: Kuwaiti official MAKKAH: Head of the Kuwaiti Hajj Mission Farid grims till they return home safely,” Emadi said. He Emadi yesterday stressed the importance of the praised the great efforts exerted by the government meetings of those involved in Hajj affairs in the Gulf of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques for har- Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, in order to nessing all its capabilities so that pilgrims can per- benefit from the various experiences. This came in a form Hajj without any problems or obstacles. He statement to the press after presiding over the pointed out that the services provided by Saudi meeting of heads of missions of the Gulf Arabia are great and innovative. “Every year Saudi Cooperation Council countries hosted by the Arabia comes up with new creations and ideas, as Kuwaiti Hajj Mission at its headquarters in Makkah. well as the use of electronic systems and smart “Each country has its own useful experiences that applications,” he added, pointing out that the can be shared so that we can achieve the best per- Kingdom seeks to adapt technology to serve pil- formance and to offer better services for the pil- grims and facilitate their rituals. — KUNA

MAKKAH: Head of the Kuwaiti Hajj Mission Farid Emadi chairs a meeting with his GCC counterparts. —KUNA

Head of the Kuwaiti Hajj Mission Farid Emadi with Hajj officials in GCC countries.

Head of the Kuwaiti Hajj Mission Farid Emadi with Dr Saad Al-Shathri, Member of Council of Senior Scholars, Advisor to the Saudi Royal Court. International WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2019

Pakistan vows to challenge India Can an election stop a no-deal Brexit? Page 8 Page 9

EL PASO: A shopping cart containing food sits outside the Cielo Vista Mall Wal-Mart (background) where a shooting left 22 people dead in El Paso, Texas. — AFP Blacks at ‘highest risk’ of US police killing Latinos express fear, point finger at Trump after mass shooting

WASHINGTON: Black men in the United States are 2.5 killed by police in this country is higher than winning a lot the ages of 20 and 24 were caused by police, dropping cord in this country,” Angelica Salas, head of the Los times more likely to be killed by the police than their of scratch off lottery games,” said Edwards. The group was slightly to 1.3 percent between 25 and 29. Angeles-based Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights white counterparts, according to a new study published also 2.5 times more likely to be killed than white men, while Police violence is therefore one of the leading causes of (CHIRLA) ssaid. “And as he prefers chaos, he most likely Monday that quantified racial disparities in law enforce- black women were 1.4 times more likely to be killed than death for these demographics, just behind cancer. Edwards enjoys seeing conflict between communities rise.” ment violence. High-profile killings including those of white women. American Indian men were approximately said that one of the study’s main limitation was its reliance Dominique Diaz, a resident of El Paso, said the fact that the Michael Brown, Charleena Lyles, Tamir Rice, Stephon 1.5 times more likely to be killed than white men, and on media reporting, which likely resulted in a dramatic shooter - identified as 21-year-old Patrick Crusius and in Clark and many others have brought the issue sustained American Indian women were about 1.6 times more likely under reporting of numbers. “Cases have to be reported in custody - had traveled so far to target a mostly Hispanic national attention in recent years, but a lack of official to be killed than white women. the news to be recorded in the data systems we’re using, region reflected mounting racism and anti-immigrant sen- data had prevented accurate estimates about the extent and there’s almost certainly cases that were not reported timent in the country. “It’s pretty difficult to even compre- of the problem. in the news,” he said, adding there was “an obligation” for hend,” he said. The new study relied on data from Fatal Encounters, a authorities to step in. For Pablo Alvarado, executive director of the Los journalist-led effort, as well as the National Vital Statistics Blacks more Latinos express fear Angeles-based National Day Laborer Organizing System, to analyze the period 2013-2018. It found African Meanwhile, US-based Latinos voiced their fears yester- Network, the shooting in El Paso, which lies right across American men and women, American Indian men and likely to be day and pointed the finger squarely at President Donald the border from Mexico and has a large majority Latino women, and Latino men all faced higher lifetime risks than Trump over a gun massacre that appears to be the deadliest population, amounts to a declaration of war against their white peers. killed than hate crime ever committed against their community. Many Hispanics. “We have moved from being scapegoats to “We think that there’s ample evidence that police are a whites said they were still coming to terms with the murders of 22 being targets of this kind of senseless racist violence,” he threat to public health in the United States,” Frank people on Saturday at a Walmart store in El Paso, Texas, by told AFP. “This atrocious act of violence is a declaration of Edwards at Rutgers University, the lead author of the a man who traveled some 650 miles (1050 kilometers), war against our community.” paper published in the Proceedings of the National reportedly to shoot as many Mexicans as possible. The tragedy in El Paso was one of three mass shootings Academy of Sciences said. “They’re a lot more violent in Eight Mexican nationals are among those killed in what in the United States in less than a week. Nine people were communities of color than they are in white communities, Latina women were however 17.5 percent less likely to authorities are investigating as a case of possible domestic killed and dozens were injured in Dayton, Ohio, hours after and we need to take that seriously when we talk about be killed than white women, though Latino men were terrorism. At least 25 people were also wounded. For rep- the El Paso massacre. Authorities have not determined a police reform.” Black men had the highest fatality risk, with about 1.4 times more likely to be killed than white men. resentatives of the Latino community, the mass shooting motive for the attack. A week earlier, a 19-year-old gun- the researchers estimating 1 fatality from police use of Asian and Pacific Islanders had the lowest fatality risks. can be directly linked to the hateful rhetoric on minorities man opened fire at a garlic festival in Gilroy, California, force for every 1,000 male births. The risks were even more pronounced for young men: that has flourished since Trump’s election in 2016. killing three people, including two children, and wounding “Those numbers are high. The chances of you being more than 1.5 percent of all deaths of black men between “The president’s rhetoric has fanned the flames of dis- a dozen others. — Agencies

Hundreds of millions of people around the world play Do mental illness first-person shooter games such as “Fortnite” and “Call Child thrown from of Duty,” and do not turn into mass murderers. “Violent video games do not contribute to mass shootings, not in London gallery has and video games whole, not in part,” said Ferguson. “It’s probably actively causing harm to the extent it distracts people from real drive US massacres? causes of violence,” he said on Twitter. The American broken spine, legs Psychological Association has found a link between vio- WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump on Monday LONDON: A six-year-old French boy thrown off a 10th- lent games and films and increased aggression among floor viewing platform at London’s Tate Modern gallery tied mass shootings that left 31 dead in two US cities over children, but says it is only one risk factor. the weekend to hate, violent video games and mental ill- has suffered a broken spine, legs and arm, a court heard ness. But with 255 mass shooting events counted so far yesterday. The boy, who was visiting London with his Mental illness family when the incident happened on Sunday, also has this year in the United States, according to the Gun Trump also tied shootings to “mentally disturbed Violence Archive, analysts say those factors don’t explain bleeding to the brain, prosecutor Sian Morgan told the individuals” who should not have access to firearms. court at a hearing for the 17-year-old alleged assailant. all the violence. Not all mass shooters show signs of “Mental illness and hatred pull the trigger-not the gun,” mental health problems, or play violent video games, or The British teenager, who was arrested at the scene, he said. There is a link in some cases. Marine Corps appeared at Bromley Youth Court in southeast London have political grudges. But one factor is omnipresent: the veteran Ian David Long, 28, who killed 12 at a country ease of acquiring guns. TEXAS: People pray at a makeshift memorial for victims of yesterday after being charged with attempted murder. music bar in California in November last year, was Walmart shooting that left a total of 22 people dead at the The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, spoke believed to have post-traumatic stress disorder. Cielo Vista Mall WalMart in El Paso, Texas. — AFP Violent video games only to confirm his name and address, an AFP reporter Twenty-four-year-old Connor Betts, who killed nine on witnessed. Wearing a grey jumper and tracksuit, he was “We must stop the glorification of violence in our Sunday at a bar in Ohio, reportedly showed dangerous society. This includes the gruesome and grisly video white, had short hair and was unshaven. Police have said tendencies while in high school. And Cruz, the Florida Divisive politics and the internet the victim’s condition is no longer life-threatening. “The games that are now commonplace,” Trump said. It’s true high school attacker, had a history of mental health Some attacks are also linked to divisive politics, which that some recent mass shooters played violent video injured boy remains in a stable but critical condition in problems. play out online, especially on the 8chan website. Like two hospital with his family, who continue to be supported by games obsessively. Adam Lanza, who killed 26 school- “On the face of it, somebody that goes out and mas- earlier mass murderers, the man who killed 22 at a children and school employees at the Sandy Hook officers,” a police statement read. sacres a bunch of strangers, that’s not the act of a Walmart in Texas on Saturday, identified in media reports They appealed for anyone who saw the incident to Elementary School in Connecticut in 2012, spent hours a healthy mind,” Jeffrey Swanson, a professor in psychia- as 21-year-old Patrick Crusius, released a “manifesto” on day playing some of the most violent video games, come forward. The contemporary art museum on the try at Duke University School of Medicine said. Yet, he 8chan attacking the “Hispanic invasion” from Mexico, banks of the River Thames, Britain’s most popular visitor including one called “School Shooting.” Nikolas Cruz, said, there are 10 million Americans with serious mental echoing Trump’s own political rhetoric. According to who killed 17 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School attraction, was evacuated after the incident on Sunday but illnesses “and the overwhelming majority of them do journalist Robert Evans, writing on of Bellingcat, 8chan reopened on Monday. However, the Tate Modern said the in Florida in 2018, reportedly played violent video games not engage in violent behavior.” Most mass shooters, he has turned mass shootings into a video-game-like com- up to 15 hours a day. But Chris Ferguson, a psychology viewing platform was closed. The boy fell from there onto said, “do not have the serious identifiable mental ill- petition, where body counts are referred to as “high a fifth-floor roof and was airlifted to hospital by helicop- professor at Stetson University who has studied the nesses such as schizophrenia, that impairs the brain’s scores.” “The act of massacring innocents has been gam- issue, says there is no causal link with real attacks. ter. The alleged assailant is due to appear in court again ability to reason or see reality, or bipolar disorder.” ified,” he wrote on Sunday.—ÅFP tomorrow.— AFP 7 International Wednesday, August 7, 2019 Aden attack exposes splits in Yemen’s anti-Houthi alliance Separatists blame Islamists for attack on military parade

ADEN: Yemen’s southern separatists yesterday Islah-affiliated media. Islah is viewed by the UAE as an accused an Islamist party of complicity in last week’s offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood, which is designat- deadly attack on Aden, the seat of government, ed a terrorist group by Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. The exposing rifts in the Saudi-backed coalition battling attack was the worst violence to hit Aden, a coalition the Iran-aligned Houthi movement. The separatists stronghold, since southern separatists clashed with and Islamist party are united in their wider war on the Hadi’s government in 2017 in a power struggle. Houthis, but have rival agendas for Yemen, and fric- tions between them over Thursday’s attack could Iran accused destabilize the southern port city that is the coalition’s Saudi and Yemeni officials have publicly accused sole stronghold. Iran of being behind the attack and a separate one in The missile strike killed 36 Security Belt soldiers, Aden that day claimed by militant group Islamic State. who are part of the southern separatists, at a military Tehran denies any involvement in Yemen. The parade. It was claimed by the Houthis, whom the mili- Western-backed, Sunni Muslim coalition intervened in tary alliance led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Yemen against the Houthis after they ousted Hadi’s Emirates has battled since 2015. The Aden violence, government from power in the capital Sanaa in the along with an escalation in Houthi missile and drone north in 2014. The government is now based in Aden attacks on Saudi cities, has complicated UN peace while the Houthis control most other urban centers. efforts to end a four-year war that has killed tens of The war has revived old strains between north and thousands of people and pushed Yemen to the brink south Yemen, formerly separate countries that united of famine. into a single state in 1990 under slain former The UAE-backed separatist Southern Transitional President Ali Abdullah Saleh. Council (STC) said the attack aimed to give Islamist Local officials and residents in Aden said many party Islah an upper hand in Aden. “This attack was northerners in the city had been expelled to nearby planned to make all of Aden fall into the hands of Islah,” Houthi-held territories in recent days in a move con- STC Vice-President Hani Ali Brik said. Islah, an impor- demned by Hadi’s prime minister and the United tant ally of internationally recognised President Abd- Nations’ human rights body. Analysts say the Houthis Rabbu Mansour Hadi, is tolerated by Saudi Arabia but may have attacked the parade precisely to exploit coali- ADEN: Yemenis inspect the site of a suicide car bombing on a police station in Sheikh Othman district, in Yemen’s viewed with suspicion by the UAE. “Therefore, do not tion weaknesses after the UAE in June said it had scaled government-held second city Aden. — AFP blame our people if they take to the streets to demand back its presence in the south and western coast, where the removal of this government from southern lands,” it has armed and trained some 90,000 troops. the STC vice-president added at a press conference. “The attack proves that the priority remains (to combat) day, without mentioning the STC accusations against Islah. seen in the region as a proxy between Saudi Arabia and There was no immediate comment from Islah or the Houthi coup, extremism and terrorism,” UAE Minister Western allies, some of which supply arms and intelligence Tehran. The Houthis deny being puppets of Tehran and say Hadi’s government, nor was there any response in of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash tweeted yester- to the coalition, have pressed for an end to a war widely their revolution is against corruption. — Reuters

put forward by the alliance. But this does not include the Towards a new era: interior and defense ministers who shall be chosen by the military members of the sovereign council. The legislative body should be formed within 90 days from the signing of What is in Sudan’s the deal. Murder, ‘gay-hunters’ It should comprise no more than 300 people and 40 landmark pact percent of the seats should be allocated to women. The strike terror in Russia alliance shall have 67 percent of the seats and the remain- ing 33 percent shall be for other political parties, not linked KHARTOUM: Veteran Sudanese leader Omar Al-Bashir to Bashir. Sudan’s armed forces and the paramilitary Rapid LGBT community ruled the northeast African country for three decades with Support Forces, which have been widely blamed for a an iron fist. Now Sudan is turning the page, ushering in a deadly crackdown on a weeks-long sit-in in June, are part SAINT PETERSBURG: When LGBT activist Yelena new era of civilian rule. A constitutional declaration, signed of the military institution under the command of the head Grigoryeva found her name on a hit list of a “gay-hunt- on Sunday between the ruling generals and the leaders of of the armed forces. The respective laws and regulations of ing” group, she did not appear to take the threat seri- an unprecedented protest movement, sets out the frame- the armed forces and the RSF-which emerged out of the ously. The group called itself “Pila”, meaning “saw”, work for a transitional leadership and builds on a landmark KHARTOUM: A Sudanese protester waves his national flag after the series of Hollywood horror films of the same in front of the Algerian embassy as people celebrate in feared Janjaweed militia-shall regulate the military institu- power-sharing deal initialled on July 17. It outlines the for- tion’s relationship with the executive authority. The name, in which a serial killer plays games with his vic- mation of a transitional civilian government and a parlia- Khartoum, after Sudan’s army rulers and protest leaders tims. Pila promised “very dangerous and cruel little signed a hard-won constitutional declaration. — AFP renamed General Intelligence Services is a regulatory ment to govern for a three-year transition period under the body, concerned with gathering, analyzing and presenting gifts” to a number of Russia’s gay activists. supervision of a joint civilian-military ruling body information to the relevant authorities. The intelligence “That’s just a threat,” Grigoryeva wrote on After more than seven months of demonstrations and priority during the first six months of the transitional peri- agency falls under the executive authority and the sover- Facebook early last month, posting a screen grab of the violence, the pact was welcomed domestically and interna- od. The transitional government is to work on drawing up eign council. group’s website on her page. “This is not how crimes tionally and will be formally signed on August 17 in the legal and economic reforms as well as outlining a balanced are committed.” On July 21, her body was found in presence of foreign dignitaries. The next day, the composi- foreign policy. Rights and Freedoms bushes close to her home in Saint Petersburg, with at tion of the new transitional civilian-majority ruling council The ruling sovereign council will be composed of 11 Under the declaration, every citizen has a right to free- least eight stab wounds to her face and back. She was will be announced. A prime minister will be named on members including six civilians and five from the military. dom and security and no one shall be subject to arbitrary 41. The murder has horrified Russia’s LGBT community, August 20 and cabinet members on August 28. The sover- It will be headed by a general for the first 21 months, and arrest excepted in accordance with the law. Every person even though there seems to be no firm evidence linking eign council and the cabinet will meet for the first time on afterwards by a civilian for 18 months. The council will has the right to freedom of religious belief. Every citizen Pila directly to Grigoryeva’s fatal stabbing. September 1. oversee the formation of a transitional civilian administra- has the right to freedom of expression, spreading informa- “I do not know who these people are, but it’s signif- tion including a cabinet and a legislative body. tion, and access to the press. Internet access provided it icant that people who think this way live among us,” Key points The prime minister shall be nominated by the umbrella does not interfere with the country’s order, security and said activist Mikhail Tumasov, who has also received Sudan’s transitional period will last 39 months from the group of the protest movement, the Alliance for Freedom public ethics is a right. The right to peaceful assembly is threats from Pila. “Many people would like to do in signing of the constitutional declaration. At the end of the and Change, and confirmed by the sovereign ruling coun- guaranteed. Every person holds the right to form and/or reality what Pila is threatening us with. The idea has transitional period elections will be held. Bringing peace cil. The cabinet shall be comprised of no more than 20 join political parties, associations, syndicates, and profes- emerged that killing people over their sexual orienta- among Sudanese factions in conflict-ridden regions is a ministers to be picked by the premier from the nominees sional unions. — AFP tion is not just normal, but noble,” he said. Russia’s gays and lesbians are no strangers to vio- lence, hate crimes and even homophobic murders. But a vigilante group seeking to turn violence against LGBT people into a game and encouraging Russians to hunt A monastery brings them down for sport plumbs new lows, campaigners Bitcoin as a say. Activists said the Pila website had been around for together Christians about a year, posting names and pictures of their tar- safe haven? gets and promising “awards” for attacks on them.

LONDON: Bitcoin’s recent gains as stocks plummet- scattered by war ‘Start protecting citizens’ ed on US-China trade tensions reflect not so much its Prominent activist Igor Kochetkov accused authori- safe-haven credentials but its potential for quick ties of doing little to stop it as he urged police to gains, cryptocurrency and foreign exchange traders QOZHAYA: The last time Samuel Botros stepped into the Lebanese monastery of Saint Anthony of Qozhaya was in probe the website and the death threats against said yesterday. The biggest coin jumped over 7% on Grigoryeva. “Dear police and other law enforcement Monday as US stocks slumped 3%. 1978. He was 24, newly married, and the country was in the grip of an all-out war. Like many of his generation, he left. agencies. It’s time to get to work!” Kochetkov, whose Safe haven assets from the Japanese yen to gold to name was also on the hit list, said in a recent video government bonds - expected to hold or gain value It took him 41 years to return. The 1975-90 civil war may be over in Lebanon but conflicts in nearby countries like address. “Start protecting all citizens! And if you amid turbulent markets - also rallied as investors fret- believe that people like us should not be protected find ted over the impact of the trade war on the world Iraq and Syria have devastated entire communities where Christians once lived alongside Muslims. yourselves a different job.” economy. Crypto enthusiasts said the moves heralded QADISHA: The ancient St Anthony monastery of Qozhaya Pila’s website has only recently been blocked, as bitcoin’s achieving its potential as a haven. Bitcoin, That has triggered an exodus among people of both faiths, especially among minority sects - like Botros’ Syriac lies in north Lebanon’s Qadisha Gorge, on the route of a have its channels on the popular encrypted messaging their argument goes, is immune to the impact of 400-km hiking route, the Lebanon Mountain Trail. — AFP app Telegram. But Pila has promised “to play until the geopolitical tensions or government interference Orthodox community whose roots are in early Christianity. The monastery, which is nestled in a remote valley in the end”, despite the ban. Late last month, investigators because of its decentralised nature. arrested a man suspected of killing Grigoryeva, sug- northern Lebanese mountains and dates from the fourth valley network called Qadisha that has a long history as a Unlike government-issued fiat money, bitcoin is gesting the attack was the result of a personal dispute. century, is a meeting place for Christians who have fled refuge for monks. At one time, Qadisha was home to hun- produced by miners across the world racing to solve Then they said they had taken the wrong man and conflict. dreds of hermitages, churches, caves and monasteries. The computer puzzles. Its supply is also capped at 21 mil- detained a new suspect. But the investigators made no “It is the war that did this to us. It is the wars that con- monastery of Saint Anthony is the last surviving one. It lion, a scarcity aficionados say gives it an innate val- mention of the homophobic threats against the activist, tinue to leave behind destruction and force people to was an early home for Lebanon’s Christian Maronites, the ue, like rare metals. And the correlation between implying she was killed by a drinking companion. leave,” said Botros, visiting the monastery as part of a first followers of the Roman Catholic church in the East. falling stocks and rising bitcoin does appear to hold. Separately, Russia’s Anti-Extremism Centre said it gathering of his community’s scout group - their first in the The Maronites and sometimes the Druze, a Muslim sect, After major market-moving events over the last year, could not conduct a probe into Pila because its web- region since the 1950s. The scout group’s roughly 150 sought the sanctuary of the mountains away from the including US President Donald Trump’s threat last site had been blocked. LGBT activists accuse authori- members include people living in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, political and religious dynasties of the times with whom week to slap more Chinese imports with tariffs, bit- ties of refusing to properly investigate Grigoryeva’s Egypt, Jordan, the Palestinian Territories and further afield. they did not always agree, Father Imad said. “The inhabi- coin has jumped as stocks tumbled. murder and the homophobic group. They say Pila may Lebanon was the only country where they could all meet tants of this mountain...and they were not only Christians, Since Trump’s threat on Thursday, bitcoin has not be made up of cold-bloodied killers, but that its easily and safely, Botros said. came here because they were persecuted and weak,” he soared 23% versus a 4.6% slump in the S&P 500. A main goal was to further terrorize Russia’s beleaguered In Iraq, years of conflict, most recently with Islamic said. “Qozhaya holds in its heart 1,600 years of history and week after the US president tweeted in May that he gay community. State, erased much of the Christian heritage in ancient it doesn’t belong to anyone, church or faith, ... it belongs to would raise tariffs, bitcoin rose 41% against a 3.8% “Pila is dangerous because it sows hatred. It cities like Mosul and Sinjar in the north. In Syria’s civil war, the homeland,” he said. fall in US stocks. And when worries on a hawkish US inspires people to commit real crimes,” said Alla some of the oldest churches in Aleppo, Homs and other The monastery is surrounded by forests of pine and Federal Reserve amid escalating trade tensions and Chikinda, spokeswoman for an LGBT support centre in cities were damaged. Botros, now 65, is about to retire in cedar and orchards that can only be reached via a narrow, weakening future corporate earnings growth upset the Urals city of Yekaterinburg. The centre, too, has Sweden where he made his home years ago. He is father winding road. Its grounds include a cave where visitors markets in December, bitcoin added 18% against a received threats from Pila, which called for it to be shut and grandfather to children who know Lebanon only light candles, a museum housing the Middle East’s oldest 10% drop for stocks in a week. down. “You will be the next victims of our game if you through photos. “I would like them to visit so that when I printing press in ancient Syriac and halls for resident In times of market fluctuations, investors tend to don’t comply with our conditions,” the group warned pass, there is something to pull them back,” he said. priests. Visitors nowadays include foreign and Arab move small proportions of their portfolios to bitcoin, in a letter. The Yekaterinburg centre has now installed tourists and local residents including Muslims who some- said Marcus Swanepoel, CEO of London-based cryp- video cameras and complained to the police. Even Ancient sanctuary times come to ask for a blessing. tocurrency platform Luno. But driving bitcoin’s moves though Russia decriminalized homosexuality in 1993, it On Sundays and public holidays, the monastery’s small Father Imad said the monastery was the safest it had is less its safe haven characteristics than its potential remains a deeply homophobic society. A rise in vio- church, with the bell tower and facade, etched into the been in its history despite being surrounded by countries for outsize gains, he added. “If you’re wrong, you’re lence against gays has been seen since 2013, when cliffs is full of people huddled in the pews or standing at at war or suffering its aftermath. “No one is telling us that not losing lots of money, but if you’re right we are Russia passed a law banning gay “propaganda” among the back of the vaulted interior. Its patron is Saint Anthony, they are coming to kill us anymore ... at least in Lebanon,” talking outsized returns,” said Swanepoel. minors. At a G20 summit in Japan in June, President a monk who is believed to have lived in rural Egypt in the he said. Before he left, Botros and his fellows stood for a Like gold, bitcoin has also tended to move in con- Vladimir Putin insisted Russia respected gay rights, fourth or fifth century. “This place has always been a final photo outside the building with the valley behind. cert with market volatility. But any correlation with but also made fun of gender identity. “Transformers, shrine...we don’t even know when it started. Even when With their flags and scarves around their necks, they the behaviour of traditional safe havens is likely more trans... I don’t even understand what this is,” he said. In there was no development...people still came,” said Father smiled and cheered as the bells rang. “What I have seen a short-term trend that an indication of anything July, Russia opened an unprecedented criminal case Fadi Imad, the priest who gives sermons. today I will never forget for as long as I live,” Botros said. longer-term, according to Forex.com analyst Fawad accusing officials of negligence for allowing a gay cou- Qozhaya lies within a valley known as the Valley of “No matter how long it takes, the son always returns to the Razaqzada. — Reuters ple to adopt two children. — AFP Saints, or Qannoubine in ancient Syriac, part of a wider mother.” — Reuters 8 Wednesday, August 7, 2019 International Bruised but still prominent, NRA grip on Washington faces a test ‘Mental illness and hatred pulls the trigger, not the gun’

WASHINGTON: Shedding support and beset lation that would expand background on peo- Languishing in Senate by infighting, the National Rifle Association ple seeking to purchase guns, CNBC report- The Democratic-led House of faces a test of strength after recent twin mass ed, citing disclosure reports. The group also Representatives passed landmark legislation shootings, but few believe it is prepared to endorsed Trump’s campaign in 2016 and spent early this year to close a loophole allowing loosen its grip on Congress or Donald Trump’s some $30 million in support of his election, firearm transfers without a background check administration. Following the tragedies in El according to funding trackers. But it has faced at gun shows, or between individuals. The bill Paso, Texas and Dayton, Ohio the president recent trials, including the ouster of its presi- lies inert in the Senate, where Republican urged Democrats and Republicans to “come dent Oliver North over a conflict about lavish Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who has together” and enact stricter background checks. NRA spending, and the resignation last week an A+ rating by the NRA, refuses to hold a But hours later, rather than proclaim in a of three board members. vote despite most Americans supporting White House address that he wants Congress NRA finances are in turmoil. Contributions expanded background checks. to tackle the gun violence epidemic by impos- to the group sank more than $26 million, or 21 Several Democratic presidential candi- ing tougher restrictions on firearms sales, percent, from 2016 to 2017, NRA figures dates, including former vice president Joe Trump repeated what many Democrats show. It ran a deficit of $31.8 million in the Biden and Senator Bernie Sanders, joined in believe is an old trope propagated by the 2017 reporting cycle, after racking up a $14.8 condemning McConnell’s inaction and Trump’s NRA. “Mental illness and hatred pulls the trig- million deficit the prior year when it spent big apparent acquiescence. Trump “has decided ger, not the gun,” Trump said, in phrasing that backing Trump, according to an audit to side with the NRA, whose lobbyists and echoed a talking point repeatedly used by the obtained by OpenSecrets. “If the NRA ever campaign contributions control the NRA and gun rights advocates who say that had a weak point, it’s right now,” moderate Republican party,” tweeted Sanders. Late “guns don’t kill people, people kill people.” Republican congressman Pete King told The Monday, McConnell said he assigned three Democrats have long demanded action on Hill newspaper Monday. “They are weakened. Republican senators to brainstorm potential background checks, but Republicans - and the And all of us, including the president, should solutions to “recent mass murders,” but his NRA - have steadfastly resisted. Trump’s tele- take advantage of that.” statement was striking for its absence of any vised remarks made no mention of his earlier Some Republicans are inching toward advo- mention of guns. After the 2018 massacre of 17 FAIRFAX: Advocates of gun reform legislation hold a candle light vigil for victims of call. “When he can’t talk about guns when he cating reforms. Senator Lindsey Graham students and staff at a Parkland, Florida high recent mass shootings outside the headquarters of the National Rifle Association in talks about gun violence, it shows the presi- announced Monday he is co-authoring red flag school, Trump scolded lawmakers for letting Fairfax, Virginia. — AFP dent remains prisoner to the gun lobby and legislation, which would allow law enforcement the NRA have “great power over you people,” the NRA,” said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. agencies and relatives to temporarily take guns adding: “They have less power over me.” But The NRA has been among the most powerful from people they suspect to be dangerous to after meeting behind closed doors with NRA “It has been the NRA’s long-standing posi- past influence on lawmakers has been extraor- lobbying groups in US history, and despite a themselves or others. But most in Trump’s camp leaders, the president fell into lock step, warn- tion that those who have been adjudicated as dinary. From 2000 to 2012, the NRA and its series of high-profile crises in recent months, have remained silent on the prospect of ing that American’s constitutional rights were a danger to themselves or others should not firearm industry allies combined to pour $80 still wields tremendous clout on Capitol Hill. reforms such as expanding background checks “under siege” from Democrats. On Monday, the have access to firearms,” it said. In recent million into House, Senate and presidential It spent $1.6 million in the first half of 2019 or banning military-style assault weapons like NRA said it welcomed Trump’s call to address months, the NRA has laid low, shuttering live races, according to a Center for Responsive lobbying members of Congress against legis- those used in the weekend attacks. the “root causes” of the latest violence. broadcasting at its media arm NRATV. Its Politics analysis. — AFP

Will cost-savings help? Gannett to merge A joint statement said the Gannett-GateHouse deal could help realize cost savings of $275 million to $300 million annually. Yet whether the tie-up will reinvigorate Can election stop with GateHouse the news business in the communities they serve remains an open question. a no-deal Brexit? WASHINGTON: USA Today publisher Gannett agreed to “There’s certainly strength in numbers and the compa- a merger Monday with rival GateHouse in a deal creating nies have fairly similar cultures and a commitment to local journalism,” said Ken Paulson, a former USA Today editor LONDON: Will he, won’t he - and can he be stopped? the largest US newspaper group, aiming for bigger scale to face the challenges of the troubled sector. GateHouse who is now on the faculty at Middle Tennessee State Westminster is abuzz with talk of whether Britain’s new University. “It’s also a plus for USA Today to be able to Prime Minister Boris Johnson will use an election to force parent New Media Investment Group will buy Gannett in a cash-and-stock transaction valued at around $1.4 billion work with an even larger network of news organizations. through his Brexit plan. Many MPs are deeply opposed to Sadly, though, this is largely a matter of buying time while his threat to take Britain out of the European Union without that creates a media company with 263 dailies and reach- ing 145 million customers. searching for that still-elusive business model that will a deal on October 31. There is speculation that Johnson allow the newspaper business to stabilize.” could call an early election to strengthen his mandate for a Michael Reed, New Media chairman and chief execu- tive, said he expects the deal “will transform the landscape Jeff Jarvis, a professor at the City University of New no-deal Brexit. MPs might themselves try to force an elec- FLORIDA: A GateHouse Media owned Palm Beach Post in the print and digital news business” and help the firms York journalism school, said the new company needs a tion to oust Johnson and further delay Brexit after the House and the Gannett Co owned USA Today are seen for sale accelerate the transformation to digital. The combined better vision more than cost savings. “Both Gannett and of Commons returns from its summer break on September 3. at a newsstand in Palm Beach, Florida. — AFP company will operate under the Gannett brand, with for- GateHouse have gone through considerable cost-cutting, However, Johnson would likely control the timing of any and more cuts would be deleterious to quality,” Jarvis said. election - and could set the date for after Brexit. mer Bloomberg and Dow Jones executive Paul Bascobert named chief executive in the deal, expected to close since 1940, even accounting for online readership. A sepa- “They need to see themselves not as a factory for content rate report by the University of North Carolina last year but a hub for service to the community. They have the Is a ‘no deal’ Brexit likely? before the end of the year. found some 1,800 local US newspapers, including many scale to reinvent themselves. But if all they are going to do Johnson took office on July 24 promising to change the Jeffry Louis, chairman of the Gannett board, said the weeklies, had failed since 2004, leaving many communities is to make their content cheaper and cheaper it’s not going terms of a Brexit deal negotiated by his predecessor, tie-up could help the publishers “leverage the combined as “news deserts.” to work.” Theresa May, or walk away. The EU has so far refused to company’s enhanced scale and financial strength to con- Gannett earlier this year fended off a hostile takeover Dan Kennedy, a journalism professor at Northeastern reopen the divorce text, causing both sides to step up tinue to drive growth in the digital future.” Under the deal, bid from hedge fund-backed Digital First Media, and in University who follows the newspaper sector, said it preparations for a disorderly split. New Media will offer stock and cash worth $12.06 per Gannett share and New Media shareholders will hold 2016 failed to seal a deal to combine with Tribune remains unclear whether the merger will be positive for Publishing, another newspaper chain. GateHouse operates local news coverage. “What’s more important with these Can parliament stop it? approximately 50.5 percent of the combined company. in numerous small- and medium-sized markets, with news- combinations is the amount of debt they take on to MPs have previously voted against a “no deal” Brexit but The deal comes with the newspaper sector mired in an papers including the Austin American-Statesman in Texas, finance the deal and that has to be paid off,” Kennedy this remains the default scenario if no divorce agreement is extended slump as consumers and advertisers shift to digi- Providence Journal in Rhode Island and the Akron Beacon said. “So I don’t think it’s good news for the communities struck with the EU. Parliament could in the first instance try tal platforms. According to a recent Pew Research Center Journal in Ohio. that they serve.” — AFP to pass laws to force the government to delay or even survey, newspaper circulation has fallen to its lowest level reverse Brexit. If that fails, the opposition Labor party could call a confidence vote, which could trigger an election.

What happens in a confidence vote? ‘Siberia is burning’: France fines more If Johnson loses a confidence vote, he would have 14 days to prove he has the support of a majority of MPs or Russians choke on than 700 in year must call an election. However, during that time, another member of his governing Conservatives could also try to forest fire smog secure a majority, as could the main opposition Labor par- of ‘cat-call’ law ty. However the 14-day procedure, introduced under the 2011 Fixed Term Parliaments Act, has never been used BOGUCHANY: Svetlana Tuflyakova is in a hurry as she LONDON: French authorities have fined more than before and there is a debate as to how it would work. pushes her small son in his pram, keen to get back inside 700 men for harassing women in public since the MPs could indicate their support for someone else her house and away from the permeating smoke of introduction of a law a year ago to stop cat-calls, through an emergency debate, a written letter or state- Siberian wildfires: “It feels like it fills your whole body,” lewd comments and gestures. Those breaking the law ment, according to David Howarth of the University of she says. Tuflyakova lives in the village of Boguchany in face potential on-the-spot fines of up to 750 euros Cambridge. But the tribal nature of politics in Britain Krasnoyarsk region, about 100 kilometers from raging ($839) or 1,500 euros if there are aggravating cir- would make it hard for opposition parties and rebel Tories fires which have engulfed vast territories and filled resi- cumstances such as the victim is under 15. Predatory to agree on a single candidate. Catherine Haddon of the dential areas with smog. “There is nothing to breathe,” remarks and wolf-whistles are fairly commonplace in Institute for Government says that even if an alternative said 32-year-old Tuflyakova. “We can’t hide from it... France. The law, introduced as part of tougher legisla- prime minister were found, Johnson would have to first Children and adults are coughing non-stop.” tion to fight sexual violence, penalizes sexist or sexual resign - and he could refuse. In this case, or if no alterna- Large fires are an annual occurrence in Siberia, but this words or behavior that are hostile, degrade, humiliate tive were chosen, he could stay on for the 14 days and call summer smoke has enveloped some of its largest cities, or intimidate. an election at the time of his choosing. including Krasnoyarsk, and locals are angry at what they The office of gender equality minister Marlene perceive as government inaction. Though authorities have KRASNOYARSK: An aerial view of the settlement of Schiappa, who spearheaded the legislation, said more Election before or after Brexit? now increased efforts to put out the blazes, the burning Boguchany in Russia’s Krasnoyarsk Krai. — AFP than 700 fines had been issued. “Street harassment: Analysis by the House of Commons library suggests area is continuing to expand. On Tuesday, Russia’s Aerial over 700 fines,” Schiappa tweeted. “It is no longer there is time for a new government to be in place before Forest Protection Service said it is battling 161 fires on fires because of “red tape”, as well as “distorting data” permissible and must no longer be tolerated to insult, October 31 - but it is tight. An election campaign must last 140,000 hectares (350,000 acres) of forest. But it has giv- about the blazes. to follow, to humiliate women by harassing them in the a minimum of 25 working days, plus a day or two for en up on 295 fires over 2.4 million hectares of “distant or street, on transport or in public space!” But French Queen Elizabeth II to formally dissolve parliament. If hard-to-reach territories” and is simply monitoring them ‘Out of control’ feminist Anais Bourdet said that while the law was forced to hold a vote, Johnson has the power to set the from space, the service said. The wildfires have fuelled a perception of neglect by important on a symbolic level, it was ineffective as date of the election, and might delay. One of his top advis- Russia’s environment ministry in 2015 issued a decree the authorities, particularly after Krasnoyarsk governor men do not harass women when police are around. ers, Dominic Cummings, believes this is an option if parlia- that allowed regions to ignore blazes if the “expected cost Alexander Uss declared in late July that putting out forest Bourdet said the small number of fines was “ridicu- ment plays hardball, according to a report in the Sunday of fighting fires surpasses the expected damages”. fires is “pointless and possibly harmful”. Photos and videos lous” given the scale of the problem, adding that she Telegraph newspaper this weekend. “They don’t realize Swathes of remote northern taiga, or swampy coniferous posted on social networks tagged “Siberia is burning” had received 15,000 testimonials from women report- that if there is a no-confidence vote in September or forest, have been designated as a territory where fires can show towns and cities enveloped in smoke, with com- ing harassment since setting up a project to highlight October, we’ll call an election for after the 31st and leave be allowed to burn. Around Boguchany, residents have not plaints of government inaction. the issue in 2012. “This law is a dressing on a gaping anyway,” he is reported to have said. MPs could however seen blue sky for weeks. In the evening, it turns a creamy A petition on Change.org demanding a state of emer- wound ... and we cannot be content with a symbol,” use the 14 days after a confidence vote to pass legislation pink from the red sun. Locals have been staying in, or gency for all of Siberia gathered over a million signatures. she said. Bourdet said the key was to invest in educa- demanding an early election - or a Brexit delay. using fog lights on the road when they venture out. A separate petition called for measures to help wild ani- tion and prevention as behaviors were learnt at a very “We have closed windows and turned on air condition- mals in the afflicted areas. Forestry authorities have early age, often in the playground. The law came into Who might win an election? ers this year,” said Dmitry Akhmadyshin, a furniture sales- claimed that fires in the taiga are caused by lightning, but effect last August days after outrage erupted in The 2016 EU referendum vote for Brexit has splintered man. “Nothing has been done” to put out the fires for most Deputy Emergency Minister Igor Kobzev said Monday France when a man hit a woman after she confronted traditional party allegiances across Britain, making it hard of the summer, he said. Only in the last few days, following that “most fires started near roads” and were caused by him for wolf-whistling her outside a Paris cafe. to predict the result of any election. Johnson’s team are a government meeting with Prime Minister Dmitry humans. A man who slapped a woman’s bottom on a bus said to be working up a campaign pitching “people versus Medvedev, has he begun noticing helicopters overhead. Many locals say the culprits are companies cutting tim- near Paris and made lewd remarks became the first politicians”, promising to deliver Brexit. Labor meanwhile Experts say once the fires reach their current magnitude, ber in the taiga. Retired Boguchany native Ivan Ozornik person to receive a fine under the law last September. is struggling with divisions over Brexit and a row over poor visibility makes aerial work unsafe. went as far as Krasnoyarsk, hundreds of kilometers away, He was jailed for the assault and fined 300 euros for anti-Semitism in the party. However, the party did better In Siberia, regional fire prevention networks are under- to express his frustration at a rally demanding governor the comments. The anti-harassment law is backed by than expected in the 2017 election and could do again. If funded, receiving only 10 percent of needed resources, Uss resign. “They are putting out the fires now, but it 90% of the French public, according to a survey last the election takes place before Brexit, the eurosceptic according to Greenpeace Russia forest expert Alexei should have been done long ago, when they were small year by polling company Ifop. France’s problem with vote risks being split between the Conservatives and Nigel Yaroshenko. Greenpeace estimates that wildfires have enough to be extinguished,” Ozornik said, recalling that in street harassment was highlighted in a 2017 Thomson Farage’s Brexit party. On the other side of the debate, anti- affected more than 13 million hectares - approximately the the Soviet era, authorities sent out monitoring planes and Reuters Foundation poll to find the world’s most Brexit parties are also discussing an alliance that could area of Greece - across Russia so far this year. On “didn’t let it become a disaster”. “Now the process is out female friendly megacity, which ranked Paris behind take seats from Labor and the Tories. — AFP Monday, Russian prosecutors specializing in environmen- of control. Our public money is being spent and there’s no London and Tokyo. — Reuters tal crimes blamed Siberian regions for failing to extinguish result,” he said. — AFP 9 International Wednesday, August 7, 2019 Pakistan vows to challenge India over Kashmir’s move Refugees in Pakistan fearful after India abolishes Kashmir autonomy ISLAMABAD: Pakistani Prime Minister Imran India, which is also set to exacerbate the strikes. For three decades the Indian-adminis- Khan vowed yesterday to challenge at the UN long-running bloody rebellion in Kashmir. tered part has been in the grip of an insur- security council India’s decision to strip “Pakistan Army firmly stands by the gency that has left tens of thousands dead. Kashmir of its special autonomy, and demanded Kashmiris in their just struggle to the very Armed Kashmiri rebels and many residents action from the international community as ten- end. We are prepared and shall go to any have fought for the Muslim majority region’s sions soared between the nuclear-armed rivals. extent to fulfill our obligations in this regard,” independence or to join neighbor Pakistan. Khan gave a forceful rebuke of Prime Minister General Qamar Javed Bajwa said, in a tweet Ahead of the announcements, tens of thou- Narenda Modi’s decision Monday to scrap the sent by a military spokesman after the meet- sands of extra Indian troops were deployed in special status granted to the Indian-ruled part ing. Spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor the territory, and a security lockdown was of Kashmir from India’s constitution in front of a said commanders “fully supported” the civil- imposed overnight Sunday. All telecommuni- joint-session of parliament in Islamabad. ian government’s rejection of India’s move. cations have been cut there since. Editorials “I want to make it clear that we will fight “Pakistan never recognized the sham Indian and social media in Pakistan were buzzing this issue on every forum, (including) at the efforts to legalize its occupation” of the dis- yesterday over Modi’s decision, with the UN security council,” said Khan, who also puted mountainous region, he added. English daily Dawn running a large headline promised to also raise the issue with heads of Yesterday, an estimated 500 people on its front page reading: “New Delhi sheds state and take the matter to the International demonstrated in Muzaffarabad, the largest fig leaf, robs held Kashmir of special status”. Criminal Court. Khan demanded action from city in Pakistani-held Kashmir, with more the global community as he accused Modi of protests expected in major cities across the Refugees fearful blatantly violating international law in pursuit country. Pakistani lawmakers also began a Meanwhile, refugees in Pakistani-held of an anti-Muslim agenda in India. session of parliament to discuss a possible Kashmir voiced fears for relatives still on the “If the world does not act today... (if) the response to Delhi’s move. The breathtaking other side of the disputed Himalayan border developed world does not uphold its own Himalayan region of Kashmir has been disput- Monday after India abolished the Muslim- KASHMIR: A woman walks on a deserted street during a curfew in Srinagar yesterday. India’s laws, then things will go to a place that we will ed by India and Pakistan since independence majority region’s special autonomy, raising home affairs minister has hailed “historic” legislation to bring Kashmir under its direct control, as not be responsible for,” Khan added. The in 1947. They have fought two of their three fears of fresh violence. Many of the roughly New Delhi stepped up its clampdown on dissent in the restive Muslim-majority region. — AFP prime minister’s remarks came shortly after wars over the former principality. 250 people in the Manak Paiyan refugee camp Pakistan’s military announced it “firmly Earlier this year they came close to war yet near Muzaffarabad, the largest city in through the heavily militarized region. For nications and imposed a security lockdown on stands” by Kashmiris following a meeting by again, after a militant attack in Indian-held Pakistani-held Kashmir, fled fighting in the decades they have communicated mainly by the territory late Sunday, ahead of the deci- the army’s top commanders in the garrison Kashmir in February was claimed by a group 1990s but still have family on the other side of telephone, and more recently with video and sion to strip Kashmir of the special status it city of Rawalpindi to discuss the move by based in Pakistan, igniting tit-for-tat air the Line of Control, the de facto border slicing WhatsApp calls. But India cut off telecommu- has held for seven decades. — Agencies

described those steps as “sweeping... with Trump orders a lot of potential consequences.” Trump’s asset freeze order affects “all N Korea threatens property and interests in property of the freeze on all Government of Venezuela that are in the to tests fires more United States, that hereafter come within Venezuelan the United States, or that are or hereafter come within the possession or control of weapons govt assets any United States person.” These assets “are blocked and may not be transferred, SEOUL: North Korea threatened yesterday to carry paid, exported, withdrawn, or otherwise out more weapons tests after it fired its fourth pair of WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump dealt in.” The measure also bars transac- projectiles in less than two weeks following the start on Monday ordered a freeze on all tions with Venezuelan authorities whose of joint exercises between the US and the South. The Venezuelan government assets in the assets are blocked. rising temperature on the peninsula threatens to United States and barred transactions with It prohibits “the making of any contribu- derail putative negotiations between Pyongyang and its authorities, in Washington’s latest move tion or provision of funds, goods, or servic- Washington, with the North saying the combined against President Nicolas Maduro. The es by, to, or for the benefit of any person drills were a “flagrant violation” of the process. whose property and interests in property announcement came a day ahead of a LA GUAIRA: Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro applauds in the port of La Guaira, Pyongyang has always been infuriated by military are blocked pursuant to this order,” as well major conference in Lima on the Venezuela. — AFP exercises between the South and US, seeing them as Venezuelan crisis, where the US delegation as “the receipt of any contribution or provi- rehearsals for invasion, but in the past it has tended to is set to announce “sweeping steps” sion of funds, goods, or services from any avoid carrying out missile tests while the war games against the regime in Caracas. Trump took such person.” Venezuelan opposition leader Assembly, which he leads. Guaido’s efforts elections can be held. Maduro has refused were taking place. The speed of its statement yester- the step “in light of the continued usurpa- Juan Guaido, who is recognized as interim have meanwhile stalled despite the interna- to resign and says the negotiations must day was also unusual, coming within an hour of the tion of power by Nicolas Maduro and per- president by the US and dozens of other tional support and widespread discontent lead to “democratic coexistence” and an launch, rather than the more normal day later. sons affiliated with him, as well as human countries, tweeted his approval of the move, with Maduro, who has been able to cling to end to what he describes as an attempted The North fired “two projectiles that are assumed rights abuses,” according to the order. saying it “seeks to protect Venezuelans” power with the backing of the country’s “coup” orchestrated by the United States. to be short-range ballistic missiles” from South The Wall Street Journal said the move from Maduro’s “dictatorship.” “Those who security forces. The two sides began negoti- Despite the loss of momentum, Guaido Hwanghae province on its west coast, Seoul’s Joint was the first against a Western Hemisphere support it, benefiting from the hunger and ating in Norway in May, with the most recent remains the greatest threat to Maduro, Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. They flew around government in over 30 years, and imposes pain of Venezuelans, should know that it has round of talks opening last week in even though the National Assembly has 450 kilometers across the peninsula and into the East restrictions on Caracas similar to those consequences,” Guaido said. Barbados. Both Guaido and Maduro have been effectively rendered powerless by Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan, reaching an alti- faced by North Korea, Iran, Syria and “reiterated their willingness” to resolve the Caracas. The oil-rich, cash-poor country tude of 37 kilometers and a speed of “at least Mach Cuba. Asked last week if he was consider- Stalled efforts political crisis, mediator Norway has said, but has been in a deep recession for five years. 6.9”, the South’s military said. ing a “blockade or quarantine” of Guaido earlier this year declared him- the talks have produced no resolution yet. Shortages of food and medicine are fre- That puts them around the middle of the range of Venezuela, Trump responded: “Yes, I am.” self interim president in a bid to oust The parties have in the past laid out quent, and public services are progressive- projectiles that have been fired by the North four In Lima, the high-powered US delegation, Maduro. But the socialist leader has starkly opposing positions, with Guaido ly failing. Around a quarter of Venezuela’s times in the past 12 days. Seoul has said all were likely including Trump’s National Security refused to yield, and in the executive order and the opposition calling Maduro a 30 million-strong population needs aid, to be short-range ballistic missiles — the North is Advisor John Bolton and commerce secre- Trump blamed Maduro’s government for “usurper” and accusing him of having according to the United Nations, while 3.3 banned from ballistic missile launches under UN tary Wilbur Ross, is expected to outline “ongoing attempts to undermine” Guaido rigged the 2018 poll that saw him re-elect- million people have left the country since Security Council resolutions — while Pyongyang has further punitive measures. Bolton and the opposition-controlled National ed. They want him to stand down so new the start of 2016. — AFP described some as a “large-calibre multiple-launch guided rocket system” or “tactical guided weapon”. The latest launch came after the South Korean and as Pandits - flee to Hindu-dominated areas of the disputed US militaries began mainly computer-simulated joint The key dates region and other parts of India in the wake of an armed exercises on Monday to test Seoul’s ability to take insurgency. operational control in wartime. Less than an hour in Kashmir’s after the North’s weapons test, an official of its for- Aussie ex-spy offers 1996 eign ministry said the drills were “an undisguised State assembly elections are held for the first time in sev- denial and a flagrant violation” of the diplomatic surprise guilty plea bloody history en years, but the contentious poll is marred by allegations of process between Pyongyang, Washington and Seoul. coercion by New Delhi. It followed elections in 1987 that All joint drills between the South and the US were were marred by graft and foreshadowed an armed rebellion “aggressive war exercises simulating the surprise and NEW DELHI: India’s Hindu-nationalist government on SYDNEY: A former Australian spy announced a surprise against Indian rule. preemptive attack on the DPRK”, the spokesperson Monday revoked Kashmir’s special autonomy status under the guilty plea yesterday for exposing an alleged 2004 bug- said in a statement carried by the official KCNA news constitution, sparking fears of increased bloodshed in the ging operation against East Timor officials, after years of 1999 agency. “So we are compelled to develop, test and region contested by nuclear rival Pakistan. Here is a timeline of fighting the charges. Lawyers for the former agent, Infiltrators from Pakistan raid Indian Kashmir’s Kargil sec- deploy the powerful physical means essential for major political and armed conflicts in the disputed Himalayan known only as “Witness K”, told a Canberra court he tor, sparking a six-week conflict leading to the deaths of national defense,” the official added. “The US and region where more than 70,000 people have been killed. would plead guilty to blowing the whistle on the spying 1,000 combatants on both sides. The battle ends under US south Korean authorities cannot counter this even operation against the newly independent government of pressure. The two nations agree to the 1999 Lahore declara- though they have 10 mouths.” 1947-1949 East Timor, national broadcaster ABC said. tion that called for a negotiated settlement of all issues, Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan are The North attacked its neighbor in 1950, trigger- The man’s lawyer, Bernard Collaery, who was including Kashmir. created after obtaining independence from British colonial ing the Korean War, but has long argued it needs charged with conspiring to violate the secrecy act with rule. The former Himalayan kingdom of Kashmir is divided nuclear weapons to defend itself against invasion his client, said he would continue to fight the charges. 2001-03 from the US. Park Won-gon, an international relations between the two nations, and they almost immediately go to A summit between the Indian PM and Pakistani president The case against Witness K and Collaery became pub- war for total control of the territory. A UN-backed ceasefire professor at Handong Global University, said more lic a year ago, when they were charged with breaching in the northern India city of Agra collapses over the issue of missile launches during the joint exercises were line agreed by the two nations in July 1949 becomes a de Kashmir. A new series of attacks in 2001 and 2002 lead to a the Intelligence Services Act for divulging details of an facto frontier which remains today. “highly likely”. If dialogue resumed later, he added, “it alleged operation to bug East Timor’s cabinet rooms new mobilization of Indian and Pakistani troops at the de- can use these missile tests to pressure Seoul and during negotiations over an oil and gas treaty and mar- facto border. In November 2003 Pakistan declares a unilater- Washington”. “The problem is that South Korea and 1953 al ceasefire along the Line of Control, leading to an inconclu- itime boundary. Jammu and Kashmir prime minister Sheikh Abdullah is the US virtually haven’t responded at all to these sive peace process the following year. The protracted row over the maritime border-with dismissed and imprisoned by New Delhi for almost 11 years recent launches, allowing Pyongyang to test as many billions of dollars in offshore gas revenue at stake-was over his support of the region’s independence. He eventually times as they want,” he said. US President Donald 2008 finally resolved in March 2018 and Australia’s parlia- returns to power in 1975 to become the state’s first chief min- Trump last week downplayed the North’s launches, The state government plans to hand over a plot of land to ment ratified the deal just last week. East Timor, which ister after partition. saying the North’s leader Kim Jong Un would not gained independence from Indonesian occupation in a trust managing an annual pilgrimage, sparking separatist want to “disappoint” him. — AFP 2002, is impoverished and depends heavily on oil and 1957 claims of a Hindu takeover and anti-India protests. The trans- gas exports. In 2006, it signed a maritime treaty with The constitution of Jammu and Kashmir comes into force, fer is later rescinded. Australia which covered the vast Greater Sunrise gas and gives the state a special position in India’s union. field between the two nations, which has an estimated 2010 worth of between US$40-50 billion. 1965-66 A bloody uprising over the death of three civilians sees But East Timor’s government in Dili then accused Pakistan launches a war against India for control of more than a hundred killed in street protests. Australia of spying for commercial advantage and Kashmir. It ends inconclusively after a ceasefire brokered by demanded the treaty be ripped up. Witness K was key the then Soviet Union. 2016 for East Timor in the case, which Dili finally dropped in The killing of a popular rebel leader sparks months of June 2015 after Australia returned sensitive documents, 1971-72 street protests that leave more than a hundred dead. Later in leading to the dispute’s eventual resolution. Australia’s A new India-Pakistan war leads to the splitting away of the year, an assault on an army base in Kashmir near to the hardline stance in the dispute with its impoverished East Pakistan, which becomes the independent state of border kills 18 soldiers, in what is the worst rebel attack in neighbor damaged the country’s reputation, and Bangladesh. Following the conflict, the two nations sign the the region for 15 years. India says its special commandos car- Collaery suggested the charges against him and his Simla Agreement and the ceasefire line becomes known as ried out a series of lightning strikes along the border with client were politically motivated. “This is a very deter- the Line of Control. Pakistan in Kashmir, a claim Pakistan denied. mined push to hide dirty political linen... in the guise now of national security imperatives,” Collaery, a for- 1984 2019 Maqbool Bhat, the founder of a leading political separatist New Delhi vows retaliation after at least 40 paramilitaries mer attorney-general for the Australian Capital PYONGYANG: Travelers stand before an Air Koryo air- group the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), is hanged are killed in a suicide attack in Indian Kashmir, which it Territory which includes Canberra, said outside court. craft at Pyongyang airport. Washington has revoked He expressed sympathy for Witness K’s decision to in a New Delhi jail for murdering an intelligence officer. blames on a Pakistan-based militant group. The attack prompts tit-for-tat air strikes between the two nuclear- visa-free entry rights to the United States for foreign- plead guilty rather than continue the six-year fight ers who have visited North Korea in the past eight against the charges. “I have great empathy for Witness 1989-90 armed nations, taking them to the brink of war. On August 5, A Muslim uprising breaks out against Indian rule in Indian the Indian government revokes Kashmir’s special status, years, potentially dealing a new blow to the isolated K and the struggle that Witness K has gone through country’s nascent tourist industry. — AFP spiritually, mentally and physically,” he said. — AFP Kashmir, inflaming tensions with Pakistan. New Delhi impos- stripping it of the significant autonomy it has enjoyed for es direct rule. Tens of thousands of Kashmiri Hindus - known seven decades. — AFP 10

Wednesday, August 7, 2019 Analysis

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Smart gas cooking seeks to break African cities’ charcoal habit

he widespread use of charcoal for cooking in African cities can cause devastating damage to Tforests up to 300 km away, scientist Sebastian US President Donald Trump speaks alongside Vice President Mike Pence about the mass shootings from the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House in Washington Rodriguez-Sanchez found while working on energy on Monday. — AFP and agriculture issues in West Africa. So in 2015, he co-founded a business to try to fix the problem by weaning people off charcoal - made by smoldering wood - and onto bottled gas, a fuel common in his home country of Mexico. Trump walks political knife-edge on racism So far, efforts to introduce cleaner stoves that burn less fuel have been led mainly by aid agencies working ooking drained in the ornate White House room, 9/11 terrorist attacks or the latest hurricane disaster, US expectations that Trump would make the trip to both Texas in rural parts of Africa and Asia - and have had limited Donald Trump expressed “horror” over twin gun presidents have often been called upon to reassure the and Ohio today, he immediately faced hostile opposition success. But a new push by businesses targeting urban Lmassacres that killed 31 people and urged the nation, country after national tragedies. When the vast country is so from local lawmakers. “Until the President takes ownership areas aims to shift the dial. For families in the Tanzanian with unusually powerful language, to unite against racism. shaken, a calm voice from the elegant, historic White House and peels that target off our back and re-humanizes com- city of Dar es Salaam, where Rodriguez-Sanchez start- Visually, the address from the oval-walled Diplomatic can be a crucial first step in restoring confidence. But the munities like mine it’s not appropriate,” Texas Democratic ed his business, KopaGas, the $150 cost of a gas stove Reception Room ticked all the boxes for a consoler-in- United States is arguably more bitterly divided today than at congresswoman Veronica Escobar tweeted. and canister equals half the average monthly wage, chief moment following the shootings over the weekend in any time since the Vietnam war era some four decades ago. Another Texas Democrat, presidential candidate Beto making it hard to afford. Texas and Ohio. But there was just one problem: The pres- And while a political truce is a prerequisite for presidential O’Rourke, was even more blunt. “This president’s open As a result, four out of five residents in a city gener- ident is being blamed for stoking the very white suprema- consoling, Trump operates mostly in one gear: attack. racism is an invitation to violence. The writing has been on ating 40 percent of the East African nation’s GDP still cist extremism that he spoke out against. When he visited the scene of California’s deadliest ever the wall since his maiden speech... calling immigrants depend on a fuel that damages both forests and their Whether telling critical, non-white congresswomen to wildfire last year, Trump played the part. But even then, the ‘rapists and criminals,’” O’Rourke tweeted. Trump argues health to make daily meals. “It’s 2019. People have “go back” to their countries, branding the majority black habitual fighter couldn’t stop himself from using the occa- that his only target is illegal immigration, not the legal kind. smartphones they can do everything (with), but they city of Baltimore as “rodent infested,” or repeatedly whip- sion to launch political barbs at the state’s Democratic He also regularly touts strong employment figures among are still cooking with charcoal,” said Rodriguez- ping up crowds of supporters over the “invasion” of authorities. Fairly or not, footage of him playfully tossing Hispanics and African Americans. “I don’t have a racist Sanchez. That “outrageous” situation has to change to Hispanic illegal immigrants, Trump has put racial contro- paper towel rolls into a crowd after Hurricane Maria dev- bone in my body,” Trump recently said. avoid environmental disaster, he said. KopaGas hopes versy at the heart of his 2020 reelection bid. So when it astated Puerto Rico in 2017 came to symbolize what But the campaign crowds he leads in chanting “build to spur uptake of gas cooking using a pay-as-you-go emerged that the shooter in El Paso, Texas, had published opponents say is his profound inability to empathize. the wall” don’t necessarily care for such distinctions - and (PAYG) system it developed. a rant justifying his murder of 22 people as response to a Trump is clearly their hero. Just this May, Trump asked a For an upfront fee of 15,000 Tanzanian shillings “Hispanic invasion,” Trump’s traditional job of consoling a ‘Shoot them!’ rally in Florida, with mock exasperation, how to stop illegal ($6.50), a household gets a liquefied petroleum gas mourning nation suddenly got a lot more complicated. This time, Trump has to walk an even sharper political immigrants, whom he portrayed as an uncontrolled mob (LPG) cooking kit that includes a canister fitted with a knife edge. A typical next move after his White House rushing handfuls of border guards. “Shoot them!” an audi- smart meter. The gas supply is unlocked by mobile Calming the nation address would be to fly to the scene of the crime, meeting ence member yelled back. The president paused in mid- phone payments and the meter monitors consumption, From the 1986 Challenger space shuttle explosion to the with victims and first responders. But while there were speech. Then he chuckled. — AFP feeding back data via the Internet of Things (IoT). KopaGas has signed up 3,500 households for its PAYG service, and supplies another 20,000 with traditional the UN’s top scientific panel for climate (KBP) began promoting efforts to scale- Need to adapt gas bottles. Its services reach about 117,000 people in ‘Like a miracle’: change says will be crucial for keeping up and commercialize the sector around Farmers across Africa are learning to total, a number it aims to boost to 1 million in Tanzania global temperatures at safer levels while 2009. Since then, more than 100,000 make do with less as arable land is swal- by the end of 2021. Rodriguez-Sanchez said the PAYG feeding a growing population. In a special people have gained access to biogas in lowed by the continent’s fast-growing model needed to be proved at a large scale to attract Poo powering report this week, the Intergovernmental their homes, more than anywhere else on cities. Desertification, deforestation and greater levels of investment. Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) detailed the continent, says KBP. degraded soils are also heaping further how intensive farming has degraded the Ethiopia rivals Kenya in biogas pro- strain on land and farmer. In the hilly ‘Crazy human cost’ Kenya farmers environment - a crisis that requires a duction while initiatives in Uganda, breadbasket of Kiambu, coffee and con- Help may be at hand. In July, London-based major rethink about how food is produced Tanzania and Rwanda are also gaining crete vie for space. Agricultural land has BBOXX, one of Africa’s biggest off-grid solar energy n 35 years working the land, Kenyan and land used wisely. pace. Tim Mungai, a business develop- rapidly dwindled as Nairobi has pushed providers, launched a pilot project for PAYG gas cook- farmer Josphat Muchiri Njonge has Agriculture and deforestation pro- ment manager at KBP, said there were ever outwards, housing projects abutting ing in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. BBOXX said the serv- never seen his coffee shrubs burst duces almost a quarter of greenhouse gas “huge opportunities” for growth in the plantations where harvesters hand-pick ice, aimed at expanding cleaner cooking in urban I with so much fruit on his verdant hillside emissions, with methane from livestock a Kenyan market alone, where two million crops to feed Kenya’s mushrooming areas, would harness the same mobile money and digi- plot outside bustling Nairobi. Same too major contributor to a warming planet. farmers keep cattle at home. “Biogas will tal platform it uses for solar kits and power paid in population. “Farmers need to adapt on goes for the banana and avocado trees Biogas is essentially carbon neutral, and be part of the energy mix for the future to the issue of climate-smart agriculture,” installments. Mansoor Hamayun, BBOXX CEO and co- swaying on his two-acre family farm in helps reduce fossil fuel emissions by come,” he told AFP. founder, said the company hoped to provide PAYG gas said Mungai. Kiambu. The plot is also lush with kale, replacing the firewood and charcoal tradi- Local and foreign companies - includ- The compost left behind in the biogas cooking to 10,000 homes and businesses by the end of spinach, maize and the cereal amaranth. tionally burned in kitchens in Africa. ing Dutch outfit SimGas, Mexican firm 2020, with the aim of proving that a market opportuni- production process is an added bonus, His secret weapon lies underground. Enormous demand for these cheap Sistema, and HomeBiogas, an Israeli man- but important for land regeneration. The ty exists and working out how to expand it. There, in a brick tank, dung from his 10 sources of wood has ravaged Kenya’s ufacturer - are rolling out new technolo- Kigali intends to ban charcoal use in the early “bioslurry” can be used in animal feed, to dairy cows is quietly transformed into a forests and degraded its soils. Their fumes gies in East Africa. Simpler “plug and rear earthworms, replace chemical pesti- 2020s, he noted. In recent years, Kenya has slapped rich, organic fertilizer that he says has also kill, with 15,000 deaths a year from play” models, often made from recycled controls on logging in public forests and on the char- cides and restore humus to over-farmed supercharged the soil and harvests. indoor air pollution, according to govern- plastic instead of traditional brick and soils. Njonge, a 67-year-old veteran cof- coal trade to curb its impact, but with limited success. ment figures. “It’s very convenient for me. mortar, can be installed in hours and gen- It isn’t the only benefit Njonge, and tens fee farmer, swears by it. The nutrient- About 4 million people - many of them women and I’ve been using firewood, charcoal, but I erating gas within a day. Manufacturers of thousands of other smallholder farmers dense plant food has doubled his coffee children - die every year from indoor air pollution across Africa derive from “biodigesters”. don’t anymore,” said Anne Mburu, a are testing new types of feed stock, diver- production in under three years, and mostly caused by burning smoky fuels including wood, These tanks, either made of masonry or farmer in Kiambu, who used to spend sifying from ordinary cow manure, which improved the quality of his beans. kerosene, dung and charcoal. Dirty cooking causes modern plastics, act like a magical 2,000 shillings ($20) a month on firewood is mixed with a little water to prevent the Apart from higher returns, and saving respiratory and skin ailments, among other health mechanical stomach. In the darkness, natu- before installing a modern, prefabricated system becoming clogged. Some educa- cash on fertilizers and firewood, he also problems, exacting what Hamayun called a “crazy ral micro-organisms break down manure in digester alongside her cow shed. tion facilities in Kenya are firing their gives some of the bounty to one of his human cost”. the absence of oxygen to create compost kitchens on human excrement, and waste But using natural gas - a fossil fuel - instead has not and biogas, a clean, renewable energy Future energy from slum latrines in Nairobi is also being sons living on an adjacent plot - he pipes been a palatable solution to backers of renewable ener- source. Kenya boasts more biodigesters Biogas is filling a gap in East Africa, transformed into green energy. Others the biogas to his home nearby. And all of gy and climate change action, he told the Thomson than anywhere else in Africa - a “poo pow- where developing economies are fast mulch food scraps and slaughterhouse it thanks to his cows. “It’s just like a mira- Reuters Foundation. Yet in many of Africa’s fast- er” that is being used to run everything growing but power is costly, unreliable or waste while some greenhouses along cle. Something which we never thought expanding cities, where electricity is expensive and from cooking stoves to farm equipment, non-existent. The technology has been Lake Naivasha, where Kenya’s world- we would make use of, in that way, there is little piped gas, bottled LPG may be the best phone chargers and shower heaters. around in Kenya since the 1950s but was famous roses blossom, have also been becomes something very amazing,” he available alternative to charcoal, at least in the short It is a smart use of land, something that neglected until the Kenya Biogas Program producing energy from flower offcuts. chuckled. — AFP term, both Hamayun and Rodriguez-Sanchez said. “LPG makes a lot of economic sense,” said Hamayun, noting Kigali already has a distribution network. “It is a cleaner courage young people from emigrating in search of higher change. A lot of my friends have the same view,” he told and better fuel, and has a lot of benefits over charcoal.” Poland scraps taxes wages. “It’s impossible to predict everything... but we think AFP. “Polish salaries won’t skyrocket. Housing is expensive, In the future, its smart LPG canisters could be filled that any young people who are debating whether to stay the price of food is going up as well, slowly but surely,” with biogas, produced from sources like animal manure or go work abroad will see that the gap between their net Some economists are also not convinced by the gov- or municipal waste, once it becomes more widely for young adults salary here and abroad is diminishing and that will moti- ernment plan. “Eliminating this tax won’t make much of a available in cities, he added. Up to now, biogas has vate them to stay in Poland,” Skiba said. In addition, “some difference for the economy,” said Andrzej Sadowski, presi- mainly been viable for livestock farmers with a ready to curb emigration of those who are already in Western Europe - in Germany, dent of the Adam Smith Centre, a Polish think-tank supply of dung, though building their own biodigester Britain, France or Ireland - will see a reason to consider a espousing free market views. “For an employer, it’s not the to make the gas is pricey, often costing several hun- return home,” he said. Skiba said the state could see 18 percent tax on income that’s expensive, it’s the social dred dollars. However, companies in Mexico and olish teenager Franciszek Filipowski has just signed around 2.5 billion zloty ($650 million) less in revenue, half security charges of just over 40 percent,” he told AFP. Cambodia are prefabricating biogas units and stoves, on for his first job at a vegetarian restaurant in of which would have gone to government coffers and half Employees pay about 24 percent of their gross salary in bringing down the cost, and are starting to use PAYG PWarsaw and thanks to a new government measure, to local authorities. social security contributions in Poland and employers technology to help rural families afford them, noted an he will not be paying taxes. “The current party in power around 18 percent. April report on the clean cooking market. BBOXX is has scrapped taxes for those under the age of 26,” the 19- ‘Populism’? also launching a similar service in rural Rwanda. year-old told AFP. “That way, they appear sympathetic Another young man interviewed by AFP, 23-year-old Like Sweden The Clean Cooking Alliance, a UN-backed coalition towards young voters,” he said, suggesting it could be a Jan Piotrowski, said he is skeptical regarding the whole ini- Still, he believes that it is employers who will benefit the that produced the report, said innovative approaches calculated political move ahead of a general election in tiative. “The idea was floated just before the EU elections, most from the program. “Now when they hire a young per- to help the poor in developing nations cook more October. so there’s an element of populism,” said Piotrowski, who son, they’ll be able to offer a salary on which they won’t cleanly are growing, with early indications that some The tax break, which came into effect on August 1, had previously worked in commerce and at a bank and is have to pay 18 percent in taxes,” he said. Sadowski does not can work financially at a large scale. Still, investment could benefit around two million youths in the country of now looking for a job in the logistics sector. “I don’t expect discount an electoral motivation for the legislation, saying remains far below what is required to transition 3 bil- 38 million people, as it only applies to employees, not to receive a windfall. More something along the lines of an that “in Poland, like in France, the government often gives lion people off dirty fuels, it said. — Reuters young entrepreneurs, according to Deputy Finance extra 100 to 200 zloty ($26-52)” per month, he said. voters gifts ahead of the election.” “In this particular case, Minister Leszek Skiba. He told AFP he hopes the legisla- There are no statistics for the average monthly wage the measure favoring youths is meant to offset the negative tion will encourage young people to quickly join the specifically for young people, only for the working popula- effect of higher social security charges for small business- labour market, which is increasingly lacking in workers. tion as a whole, where it is a net 3,700 zloty. But to pro- es,” which are to come into effect in January, he said. All articles appearing on this page are the The under-26 workforce will now receive fatter pay- vide an idea of how marginal the increase in a young per- Supporters of the new tax break see a precedent in personal opinion of the writers. Kuwait checks, since their employers no longer have to hold back son’s take-home pay might be: A burger costs around 25 Sweden, where in 2007 the centre-right government 18 percent of the salary to hand over to tax authorities. zloty. Piotrowski said he has been “considering moving slashed employer charges in half for people under 26 years Times takes no responsibility for views abroad for work over the last couple years” and such a of age to ease their access to the job market. The following expressed therein. ‘Magic wand’ small amount extra will not sway him. “I don’t like the cur- centre-left administration scrapped the move in 2016, say- The government is also hoping the measure will dis- rent government’s policies and I don’t expect them to ing it was ineffective. — AFP Established 1961

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2019 Business

Boursa Kuwait has been the best Gulf Zain Kuwait offers Fortinet’s Jazeera Airways launches 12market since the beginning of the year 13 solutions to SME customers 14 flights to London Gatwick

ABIDJAN: Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara (tenth left) poses with delegates and participants for a group photo during the opening ceremony of the 18th African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) forum in Abidjan on Monday. — AFP US-African trade lagging despite free access AGOA has not yet been a game-changer for many countries in Africa: US official ABIDJAN: Trade between the United States and sub- hoped it would be,” Constance Hamilton, assistant US trade Washington had drawn up a “variety of new initiatives” to Saharan Africa is in the doldrums despite a 2000 US law representative for Africa, told the 18th AGOA Forum, ending “lay the groundwork for an even closer trade and invest- designed to boost access to the American market, a confer- in the Ivory Coast’s economic capital Abidjan yesterday. ment partnership”. “We will combine the promise of the ence in Ivory Coast has been told. The African Growth and “AGOA has not led to the trade diversification for which AfCFTA with these new US initiatives and help maximize Opportunity Act, which in 2015 was extended to 2025, pro- we originally hoped,” she said in remarks on Monday. the potential of US-Africa trade,” he said. The AfCFTA-the vides tariff-free access on 6,500 products to 39 countries, “Petroleum products continued to account for the largest African Continental Free Trade Area-is a scheme for demol- ranging from oil and agricultural goods to textiles, farm and portion of AGOA imports, with a 67 percent share,” ishing trade barriers among the 55-member African Union. handicrafts. Trade quadrupled in value from 2002 to 2008, a Hamilton said. The long-negotiated agreement was ceremonially year when it reached $100 billion, but fell back in 2017 to “And the volume of AGOA trade remains modest. In the launched at a summit in July, but will need a year to become just $39 billion, according to figures compiled by the US AGOA clothing sector, for example, we get about $1 billion operational, the AU says. According to the conclusions of a agency USAID. per year from Africa,” he said, adding that this amounted to pre-forum meeting of ministers ahead of the Abidjan con- The surplus is widely in Africa’s favor, but most exports just one percent of all US clothing imports. The United ference, only 18 out of 39 countries have set down a nation- to the US are in oil or petroleum-based products, not the States is Africa’s third biggest trade partner after the al strategy for exploiting the benefits of the AGOA. Many industrialized goods that provide a value-added boost to European Union and China. But Africa attracts only about African companies either do not know of the advantages ABIDJAN: A woman looks on during the 18th African Growth and local economies. “I do not think that AGOA has been the one percent of all US foreign investment. that are on offer, or they do not know how to use them, the Opportunity Act (AGOA) forum, an exhibition of eligible Ivory Coast game-changer for many countries on the continent that we Deputy US Trade Representative Curtis Mahoney said ministers found. —AFP products on the US market, in Abidjan, on Monday. — AFP

od last year. Net investment income and sundry GIG announces income reached KD 6.9 million ($22.6 million) secure and protect personal informa- compared to KD 5.5 million ($18.1 million) for Global privacy tion”. Facebook’s handling of user data, net profit of the same period last year, at an increase of 24.8 highlighted by the Cambridge Analytica percent. scandal, had “not met the expectations of Net technical reserves rose from KD 150 watchdogs regulators or their own users”, they said. KD 8.1 million million ($494.6 million) on December 31, 2018, The social media giant’s latest project to reach KD 156.3 million ($515.16 million) as at warn FB over faced similar risks, they said, adding that for H1 2019 June 30, 2019. This increase, representing a the “combination of vast reserves of per- growth of 4.2 percent, supports the company’s sonal information with financial informa- KUWAIT: Gulf Insurance Group (gig) technical operations and to protect the policy- Libra currency tion and cryptocurrency amplifies our announced a net profit of KD 8.1 million ($26.7 holders rights, thereby strengthening gig’s abili- SYDNEY: Global privacy regulators privacy concerns about the Libra million), or 45.32 fils per share, for the first half ty to withstand emergencies and risks that may joined forces yesterday to demand guar- Network’s design and data sharing of 2019 compared to a net profit of KD 6.6 mil- rise in the future. Total assets reached KD 644.7 antees from Facebook on how it will pro- arrangements”. The regulators demanded lion ($21.7 million) for the same period last year, million ($2.13 billion) as at June 30, 2019, an Facebook provide guarantees that user increase of KD 77.6 million ($255.7 million) or tect users’ financial data when it launches an increase of KD 1.5 million ($5 million) or 23.2 its planned cryptocurrency, Libra. The information, such as transaction histories, 13.7 percent from December 31, 2018. percent. This increase is due to the improvement watchdogs from Australia, the US, EU, will not be shared without explicit con- Total cash and investments reached KD in the Group’s underwriting and investment per- Britain, Canada and other countries sent and that all personal data will be 285.7 million ($941.7 million) during the first six formance results. issued an open letter calling on Facebook adequately secured by all parties in the months of the year, an increase of KD 32.6 mil- Shareholder equity reached KD 90.9 million Khaled Saoud Al-Hasan to respond to more than a dozen con- Libra network. ($299.6 million) as at June 30, 2019. lion ($107.6 million) or 12.9 percent from cerns over how it will handle sensitive Facebook announced the launch of Book value per share reached 508 fils as at December 31, 2018. personal information of users of the digi- Libra in June, with Calibra slated to run a June 30, 2019, an increase of 2 percent from Khaled Saoud Al-Hasan, gig’s CEO, said, with our constant strive to provide the best digital wallet and provide financial services insurance services to our clients across all the tal currency. December 31, 2018. Gross written premium “Our results for the first half of 2019 reflect the The letter follows a chorus of warn- using blockchain technology. The curren- reached KD 173.1 million ($570.6 million), a growth we have achieved. This is also a strong markets we operate in, supported by our strate- cy is to be overseen by a Geneva-based gy for regional expansion and increasing our ings about Facebook’s entry into the growth of 3 percent compared to the KD 168.1 indication of the Group’s ability to protect its shadowy world of digital banking, Libra Association of companies, and Swiss million ($554 million) reported in the same peri- assets and shareholders’ equity. It is also in line domestic and regional market share.” authorities have also pledged tight over- He added, “We thank our clients for these including at a meeting last month of finance ministers and central bankers sight of the operation. Libra is widely achievements, as well as the our shareholders, from the G7 group of most developed regarded as a challenger to dominant namely KIPCO - Kuwait Projects Company economies. global player bitcoin. Expected to launch (Holding) - and Fairfax Middle East Ltd for their The watchdogs said that Facebook in the first half of 2020, Libra is designed support. I would also like to express my sincere and its subsidiary Calibra “have failed to to be backed by a basket of currency appreciation to our dedicated employees for specifically address the information han- assets to avoid the wild swings of bitcoin their efforts.” dling practices that will be in place to and other cryptocurrencies. — AFP 12 Established 1961 Business Wednesday, August 7, 2019

NBK Capital Global Markets Commentary Boursa Kuwait has been the best Gulf market since the beginning of the year US Fed rate cut viewed as a mid-cycle adjustment to policy KUWAIT: In the GCC the picture was 1.56 percent. Turkey’s Borsa Istanbul 100 mostly positive with the exception of the Index, on the other hand, built on its previ- Saudi market. The S&P GCC Composite ous month’s gains and added 5.80 percent Index edged up during the month advancing during the month of July. by 0.62 percent despite the strong perform- Markets moved mostly sideways during percent tariff on an additional $300 billion ance of key markets such as Kuwait, Dubai the month awaiting the outcomes of the worth of Chinese imports in the middle of and Abu Dhabi. The performance of the highly anticipated policy meetings of the US trade talks then China threatened to retali- GCC index was dragged down by a 1.01 per- Federal Reserve and the ECB at the end of ate. Stock markets and oil tanked while cent decline in the Tadawul All Share Index July and the US-China trade negotiations. treasury bonds rallied sending yields to 3- after a string performance in June. In the The MSCI AC World Index remained practi- year lows. UAE, Dubai was the top GCC performer for cally flat adding 0.17 percent during the The S&P 500 had traded for most of the July adding 9.77 percent, followed by Abu month, while the MSCI EM Index declined month above the 3,000 level but broke down Dhabi with 6.79 percent mainly buoyed by by 1.69 percent. The last week of July was after the Fed decision losing 1.09 percent strong bank earnings. the most eventful in terms of policy moves. during the last day of July to close up 1.31 It was followed closed by Bahrain with a On July 25, the ECB kept key interest rates percent for the month at 2,980.38. Similarly, gain of 5.21 percent and Kuwait with 4.88 unchanged but hinted that a rate cut could the Nasdaq climbed steadily to new highs in percent for the Boursa Kuwait All Share be on the horizon along with more monetary July to close the month up 2.11 percent after Index. In Kuwait, the Boursa Kuwait Premier easing. The ECB president Mario Draghi losing 1.19 percent on the last trading day. Market Index continued to outperform the said that he expects rates to remain “at their US economic growth remains a potential the month then tanking after the escalation able and support the euro expansion”. main market recording a gain of 5.76 per- present or lower levels” at least through the concern in the face of global and domestic of trade tensions. The Stoxx Europe 600 Draghi also said that the ECB is examining cent for July bringing its total performance first half of 2020. headwinds. Manufacturing activity surprised added 0.23 percent in July after a solid per- additional options to support the Eurozone for the year to 28 percent, by far leading the on the downside; the ISM manufacturing formance for the previous month. The economy including studying “options for the GCC markets with Bahrain and Dubai distant Fed cuts rate PMI, which was expected to grow to 52.0, German DAX declined by 1.69 percent while size and composition of potential new net seconds with 15.74 percent and 15.36 per- The Federal Reserve, as was widely dropped to 51.2 in July from 51.7 the previous the French CAC40 retreated by 0.36 percent asset purchases”. Draghi hinted to a possible cent respectively. In the broader MENA expected, lowered its target rate by 25bps to month. Inflation continued to weaken as the in July after recording gains of 5.73 percent rate cut at a time where the market is region Egypt continues to be volatile with a a range of 2.0-2.25 percent which marks the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) and 6.36 percent in June. European GDP expecting two cuts of 10 basis points each in loss of 5.0 percent in July following a 2.4 first interest rate cut since the financial crisis. recorded 1.4 percent in June undershooting declined marginally to 1.1 percent in Q2 September and December. percent in June. The immediate market reaction was largely expectations of 1.7 percent, while the Core according to preliminary estimates down In the UK, the FTSE 100 Index added The performance of Emerging markets negative as Chairman Powell hinted that this PCE recorded 1.6 percent versus an expect- from 1.2 percent in Q1 but came in better 2.17 percent during July at time when the was generally negative with the MSCI EM might be a one-off by saying that “We are ed 1.7 percent. Preliminary GDP figures for than expectations of 1.0 percent. new Prime Minister seems to be taking a and the MSCI Asia ex-Japan down 1.69 per- thinking of it as a mid-cycle adjustment to Q2 showed a decline to 2.1 percent from 3.1 Manufacturing activity remained weak with hard stance on the Brexit negotiations with cent and 2.17 percent respectively. The policy”. He later clarified that the Fed could percent for the first quarter of 2019. the Markit Manufacturing PMI declining to the EU. Manufacturing activity seems to declines were led by significant drops in cut rates again soon, but the cycle of cuts 46.4 in July down from 47.6. The President have stabilized in July after having trended Mexico and India as the Mexico Stock wouldn’t last for long. The markets had been European markets mixed of the ECB acknowledged the weakness and downwards since the end of 2017. The July Exchange Index and the Indian Nifty 50 expecting another cut before the end of the In Europe, the markets picture was mixed said that “a significant degree of monetary Markit Manufacturing PMI recorded 48.0, at retreated by 5.32 percent and 5.69 percent, year. Shortly after the month-end President but indices generally followed the same pat- stimulus continues to be necessary to ensure par with the previous month and marginally while the Shanghai Composite was down Trump said that he would impose another 10 tern with mostly sideways movement during that financial conditions remain very favor- better than expectations of 47.7.

With some luck, Fed’s Bullard: Turkish lira defies US rates ‘in right doubters for now neighborhood’ ISTANBUL: Turkey’s lira has risen in recent months despite Ankara abruptly sacking the cen- WASHINGTON: The Federal Reserve has set US interest tral bank governor and risking US sanctions over rates “in the right neighborhood” but will watch how the econ- Russian missiles, silencing for now critics who omy reacts to factors like the trade war before deciding its had warned such moves could cause another next move, James Bullard, a key member of the central bank currency crisis. The lira has been a fortunate policy board, told AFP yesterday. However, in his first public beneficiary of the US Federal Reserve’s shift to a comments since the Fed cut the benchmark interest rate last more supportive stance, which has boosted week, Bullard, president of St Louis Federal Reserve Bank, emerging markets, especially relatively cheap said the Fed “can’t realistically move monetary policy in a tit- Turkish assets, since the currency hit an eight- for-tat trade war.” month low in May. Still, policymakers have “already done quite a bit” to Turkey’s lira is by far the strongest emerging help the economy and account for the uncertainty sur- market currency so far this quarter, while its rounding President Donald Trump’s trade wars, Bullard said bond returns have jumped from among the worst rect-would throw the currency back to levels hit Lira on train tracks in last year’s crisis, prompted by concerns over Other risks loom for Turkey’s $766 billion econ- in an interview. earlier this year to among the best. Bullard, who was the first Fed official to call for the central Its prospects now depend on whether yield- central bank independence and a diplomatic spat omy, which is expected to contract this year. A with the United States. The lira at its nadir last year-long trend of “dollarization” has not abated, bank to roll back some of the four rate increases made last hungry investors will keep ignoring the global year, says he has “penciled in” another rate cut for this year. trade war and buying riskier assets, as well as year shed half its value against the dollar, sending with a near-record 53 percent of accounts holding inflation soaring above 25 percent in October. foreign currencies in mid-July, suggesting Turks But he suggested he was comfortable with the current stance, Turkish authorities’ ability to restore trust in the saying he wants to see how the economy and inflation per- central bank, shore up debt-laden banks and Another sell-off this spring echoed 2018, as are unconvinced by the lira’s rally. Ratings agency investors again fretted that the central bank S&P said that just 11 percent of government bonds form given the significant moves the Fed has already made, companies and halt a trend of Turks turning to which can take six months before they show up in economic more stable foreign cash. “People are piling into would not keep policy tight enough to support now held by foreigners “the fate of the Turkish lira the lira. Erdogan fired central bank governor relies far more on the sentiment of Turkish resident data. “I do want to take stock about how the accommodation the lira,” said Cristian Maggio, head of emerging we’ve put in place has had an impact,” he said. markets strategy at TD Securities. Murat Cetinkaya for not following instructions to households.” ease policy. The central bank under its new chief Foreign investors have been squeezed by state There was some confusion last week over Fed Chair Jerome “The main factor is external and the Fed being Powell’s attempts to explain the reasoning behind the rate cut, on a path of monetary easing ... and Turkey followed through with Turkey’s biggest rate cut banks that in March withheld lira liquidity from since at least 2003, again stoking worries about London’s overnight swap market, often used to the first in more than a decade. Bullard compared the situation stands out as the main beneficiary of that.” The to past economic expansions where the Fed has raised rates lira was worth 5.53 per dollar yesterday, about 10 independence. hedge positions, and again in May when they sold “But market players saw an opportunity to billions of dollars in international markets. Those several times and then taken back a few steps. “We’re trying percent stronger than the 6.19 in early May, when find the right level,” he said. Trump has attacked the Fed Goldman Sachs, Societe Generale and others take advantage of cheap bond prices in the short and other government moves, which some saw as run.” She said the lira could weaken if there are steps toward capital controls, have raised costs for almost daily, calling the independent central bank a threat to predicted it would slide toward 6.60 and even the US economy and demanding it react to China’s moves to 7.00 by year end. more rate cuts and the government fails to agree foreigners betting against Turkish assets and for a bad debt bailout. Reuters reported last month Turks buying dollars and euros. Reuters has not weaken its exchange rate and stimulate its economy. Bullard, that plans have stalled to relieve banks of some reported any state bank interventions since May, like Powell, brushed off those attacks. “We’re making decisions Two weeks in July the way we always have,” he said. — AFP Those predictions-which could still prove cor- $20 billion in loans that construction and energy though some investors say it remains a possibility companies can no longer afford. especially given recent lira strength. — Reuters

EXCHANGE RATES

Thai Bhat 10.885 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 18.401 Chinese Yuan 0.042017 0.045517 Turkish Lira 55.205 AL-MUZAINI EXCHANGE CO. Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.223 Hong Kong Dollar 0.036754 0.039504 Singapore dollars 223.632 Tunisian Dinar 109.510 Indian Rupee 0.003797 0.004569 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Jordanian Dinar 430.230 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000017 0.000023 US Dollar Transfer 304.450 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 0.203 BAHRAIN EXCHANGE COMPANY WLL Japanese Yen 0.002769 0.002949 Euro 342.960 Syrian Lira 0.000 Korean Won 0.000240 0.000255 Sterling Pound 372.040 Morocco Dirham 32.320 Malaysian Ringgit 0.069547 0.075547 Canadian dollar 231.870 CURRENCY BUY SELL Nepalese Rupee 0.002678 0.003018 Turkish lira 55.250 DOLLARCO EXCHANGE CO. LTD Europe Pakistan Rupee 0.001296 0.002065 Swiss Franc 314.510 British Pound 0.362921 0.376821 Philippine Peso 0.005921 0.006221 US Dollar Buying 297.250 Czech Korune 0.005192 0.014492 Singapore Dollar 0.214766 0.224766 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate Danish Krone 0.041602 0.046602 US Dollar 304.540 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001217 0.001797 ASIAN COUNTRIES Euro 0. 333382 0.347082 Taiwan 0.009539 0.009719 Japanese Yen 2.855 Canadian Dollar 232.485 Georgian Lari 0.104381 0.104381 Sterling Pound 371.925 Thai Baht 0.009563 0.010113 Indian Rupees 4.318 Hungarian 0.000951 0.001141 Vietnamese Dong 0.00013 0.00013 Pakistani Rupees 1.941 Euro 341.305 Norwegian Krone 0.030095 0.035295 Srilankan Rupees 1.720 Swiss Frank 303.485 Romanian Leu 0.055083 0.071933 Bahrain Dinar 809.885 Arab Nepali Rupees 2.696 Russian ruble 0.004638 0.004638 Bahraini Dinar 0.801407 0.809467 Singapore Dollar 221.420 UAE Dirhams 83.320 Slovakia 0.009102 0.019102 Egyptian Pound 0.018639 0.021999 Hongkong Dollar 38.845 Qatari Riyals 84.555 Swedish Krona 0.027661 0.032661 Iranian Riyal 0.000084 0.000086 Bangladesh Taka 3.585 Saudi Riyals 82.105 Swiss Franc 0.305782 0.316762 Iraqi Dinar 0.000210 0.000270 Philippine Peso 5.886 Jordanian Dinar 430.820 Egyptian Pound 18.375 Jordanian Dinar 0.424503 0.433503 Thai Baht 9.928 Australasia Sri Lankan Rupees 1.727 Kuwaiti Dinar 1.000000 1.000000 Malaysian ringgit 77.864 Australian Dollar 0.197851 0.209851 Indian Rupees 4.421 Lebanese Pound 0.000151 0.000251 New Zealand Dollar 0.192379 0.201879 GCC COUNTRIES Pakistani Rupees 1.906 Moroccan Dirhams 0.021379 0.045379 Bangladesh Taka 3.606 Omani Riyal 0.785648 0.793549 Saudi Riyal 81.241 America Philippines Pesso 5.995 Qatar Riyal 0.082969 0.083803 Qatari Riyal 83.675 Canadian Dollar 0.225253 0.234253 Omani Riyal 791.293 Cyprus pound 18.115 Saudi Riyal 0.080100 0.081400 Japanese Yen 3.805 US Dollars 0.300350 0.305650 Syrian Pound 0.001291 0.001511 Bahraini Dinar 808.950 US Dollars Mint 0.300850 0.305650 UAE Dirham 82.945 Syrian Pound 1.595 Tunisian Dinar 0.102713 0.110713 Nepalese Rupees 2.773 Turkish Lira 0.047829 0.057674 Malaysian Ringgit 74.645 Asia UAE Dirhams 0.082200 0.083028 ARAB COUNTRIES Bangladesh Taka 0.002985 0.003786 Egyptian Pound - Cash 21.650 Chinese Yuan Renminbi 44.710 Yemeni Riyal 0.000990 0.001070 Established 1961 13 Business Wednesday, August 7, 2019 Zain Kuwait offers Fortinet’s solutions to SME customers Company committed to empowering a more efficient business sector

KUWAIT: Zain, the leading digital service provider in Kuwait, announced that it has selected Fortinet, a global leader in broad, integrated, and automated cybersecurity Gulf Bank launches Selfpay solutions, as the preferred vendor of provid- ing managed CPE and Secure SD-WAN and E-loan to online and solutions for its new managed security serv- ices offering designed for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the Kuwaiti Market. mobile banking services Zain, a Fortinet Managed Security Service KUWAIT: Gulf Bank has announced Provider (MSSP) Partner, is committed to the latest digital updates to its online offering the latest and most advanced securi- banking and mobile application, ty solutions for the Kuwaiti business sector launching two new, innovative servic- as per the highest international standards. es and updating existing features. This also comes in line with Zain’s digital Gulf Bank is proud to introduce transformation strategy that aims at empow- Selfpay, an easy and convenient way ering a more efficient business sector in the to transfer payments from individuals Kuwaiti market. and groups instantly, and E-loan, a Zain specially designed its new managed new service that allows customers to security services offering to meet the securi- seamlessly apply for loans through ty needs of its SME customers, offering them the app or website. the best-in-class managed CPE and Secure Selfpay is a new service that SD-WAN solutions. Based on Fortinet’s allows customers to receive funds FortiWiFi security appliance, these new serv- immediately to their accounts by Ahmad Al-Amir ices feature a wide range of capabilities, sharing a dedicated Selfpay link, including an industry leading Next which can be sent to a group of indi- ther enhance its digital experience, Generation Firewall (NGFW) with full cyber viduals at once. The shared link, Gulf Bank also makes it possible to security capabilities, integrated WiFi access which can be sent via SMS and email, purchase e-vouchers, including point and 4G LTE network connectivity to is valid for 24 hours and allows users iTunes and Google Play gift cards, support customers throughout Kuwait. to track the status and history of their through the app. With this service, customers can benefit payments with ease. Commenting on the new features, from the simplicity that comes from combin- Customers looking to apply for Ahmad Al-Amir, Assistant General ing security with networking in a single, cost consumer loans can now do so easily Manager for External effective appliance. Customers can also ben- wide range of security appliances that meet al company in the private sector, is proud to with E-loan, a new service that Communications at Gulf Bank said: efit from the integrated SD-WAN capabilities their individual needs. be a main partner of Kuwaiti SMEs in their allows customers to apply for loans “We are so proud to announce the of FortiWiFi, combining full SD-WAN func- Zain is aware of the important role played journey to success. Zain continues to encour- through Gulf Bank’s online and addition of two new key features to tionality with full next generation security. by Small and Medium Enterprises in achiev- age SMEs to enhance their businesses by mobile banking services. To apply for Gulf Bank’s online and mobile bank- Additionally, Fortinet solutions also cover all ing economic and social development in offering them services and solutions from the a loan, customers can fill out a simple ing services. With Selfpay, transfer- large enterprises’ security needs by offering a Kuwait. The company, being a leading nation- biggest service providers around the world. online application and submit their ring and receiving payments from a required paperwork all in one place, group has never been easier. E-loan attaching any necessary documents allows customers to safely and online or through the app. Once sub- securely apply for consumer loans US services mitted, customers can also conve- from the very comfort of their homes, niently track the status of their loan without having to pay the bank a vis- sector slows; applications online. it. Digital innovation is always at the Gulf Bank’s mobile and online forefront of our service offering at banking services add a new level of Gulf Bank, and we are constantly orders hit daily convenience for Gulf Bank looking for new ways for our cus- clients, granting them the ability to tomers to enjoy unprecedented levels 3-year low pay their phone bills and installments of both security and convenience.” anytime, anywhere. With the release To find out more about Gulf Bank’s of the latest app update, Gulf Bank mobile application and online bank- WASHINGTON: US services sector activity customers can now transfer funds ing services, customers can visit one slowed in July as new orders dropped to their locally and internationally faster and of Gulf Bank’s 58 branches or log on lowest level in three years, suggesting the easier than ever. In an effort to fur- to www.e-gulfbank.com. economy lost further momentum early in the third quarter. The report from the Institute for NEW YORK: Women walk in the rain in the financial district in Lower Manhattan in New Supply Management (ISM) added to last York City. US services sector activity slowed in July as new orders dropped to their low- week’s data showing a slowdown in hiring and est level in three years, suggesting the economy lost further momentum early in the gross domestic product of nearly $400 prolonged weakness in manufacturing in July. third quarter. —Reuters On cusp of billion and a population of some 190 mil- These reports, together with an escalation lion - belies major weaknesses. Reliance in the trade war, suggest the Federal Reserve lar dropped against a basket of currencies. slowing largely as the stimulus from last on crude oil sales for around 90 percent will cut interest rates again next month to trade deal, of foreign exchange earnings led to neg- sustain the 10-year economic expansion, the Stocks on Wall Street tumbled. year’s $1.5 trillion tax cut fades. Treasury prices rose, with the gap The ISM described the pace of growth in lect of other sectors. Once thriving auto- longest in history. The US central bank last mobile, textile and agricultural industries week cut its short-term rate citing rising risks between the three-month Treasury bill rate the services sector as continuing “to cool off, Nigeria clings and 10-year yields jumping nearly 27 basis noting “ongoing concerns related to tariffs atrophied. While nations including to the economy from trade tensions and Ethiopia and Kenya are investing heavily weakening global growth. points, the widest since April 2007. This and employment resources.” The ISM’s serv- curve “inversion” between the two maturi- ices sector measure of new orders fell to a to protection in railways, highways and power projects “The trade war was already inflicting dam- with a view to becoming manufacturing age to the economy, and now it has been ties has preceded every US recession in the reading of 54.1 last month, its lowest since past 50 years. August 2016, from 55.8 in June. A gauge of hubs, Nigeria’s infrastructure remains ramped up,” said Jennifer Lee, a senior econ- LAGOS: Adeleke Adeleye stands in front antiquated. omist at BMO Capital Markets in Toronto. new export orders dropped to 53.5 in July of a bank of whirring printers spinning out Slowing economy from a reading of 55.5 in June. There was also With a population less than a third its “The Fed will step in again, likely in October dozens of envelopes a minute in Nigeria’s size, South Africa, the continent’s second but possibly sooner, but there is only so much Economists said last month’s slowdown in a further deceleration in prices paid for mate- commercial capital of Lagos. His sta- the services industry measure was consistent rials and services, pointing to benign inflation. largest economy, produces roughly 10 already-low rates can do.” The ISM said its tionery company, FAE Ltd, is thriving and times more electricity than Nigeria. South non-manufacturing activity index fell 1.4 per- with slowing economic growth. “Although But a measure of services industry employ- will move into a larger factory nearby by today’s reading is consistent with the deceler- ment increased to a reading of 56.2 in July African brands, including supermarkets centage points to a reading of 53.7. It was the the end of next year. But he sees trouble and telecommunication firms, are already second straight monthly decline in the index. ation that we have been anticipating for some from 55.0 June. This suggests job growth will on the horizon in the form of a new African time with the waning of fiscal stimulus and likely remain solid, even though the pace of conquering Africa. Nigeria garnered just A reading above 50 indicates expansion in free trade agreement aiming to unlock a 23 points out of 100 in the World Bank’s the sector, which accounts for more than tighter financial conditions, the weaker-than- hiring is slowing. The economy created market of 1.3 billion consumers - but expected reading hints that tepid growth in 164,000 jobs in July, pulling back from the “trading across borders” scoring due to its two-thirds of US economic activity. which many in Nigeria, the continent’s jam-packed ports and pot-holed roads, Economists polled by Reuters had fore- the trade-exposed goods sector may be 193,000 positions added in June, the govern- largest economy, view as a threat. “It’s spilling into domestic demand,” said Jonathan ment reported on Friday. According to the which add significant costs and delays to cast the services index would slip to a read- definitely not a level playing field,” he says. trade. Kenya, by comparison, scored 68. ing of 55.5 in July. The ISM reported last Millar, an economist at Barclays. ISM, 13 non-manufacturing industries report- Africa is forging ahead with the African The economy grew at a 2.1 percent annu- ed growth in July, including accommodation President Muhammadu Buhari’s govern- week that factory activity slowed to a three- Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) - a ment is working to catch up. year low in July, noting that “trade remains a alized rate in the second quarter, down from a and food services, utilities and professional. project to create a $3.4 trillion economic 3.1 percent pace in the January-March quar- The five industries reporting a decline includ- But those efforts in many cases run significant issue.” The deterioration in the bloc - even as world powers such as the counter to the spirit of free trade the trade relations between the two economic ter. Growth estimates for the third quarter are ed retail trade, wholesale trade and educa- United States and Britain back away from around a 1.5 percent rate. The economy is tional services. —Reuters AfCFTA embodies. Nigeria has placed giants pressured financial markets. The dol- multilateral trade pacts. Its champions - import controls on a broad range of items, South Africa and Kenya among them - say from rice, cocoa and tomatoes to furniture the deal will provide a shot in the arm to and footwear. Total duties - tariffs, fees trade between African nations, which and other taxes - on some imports can top Ride hailing accounted for just 17 percent of exports in 70 percent. The central bank has also 2017, and give their companies access to restricted access to foreign exchange for app ‘Yala Go’ millions of new customers. imports of more than 40 items it says But Nigeria is worried it could be Nigeria should produce itself. flooded with cheap goods from more launches services competitive neighbors, undermining its Tariff plus levy efforts to revive local manufacturing and A cap on gasoline prices requires in Kuwait expand farming to reduce dependence on heavy subsidies on refined petroleum crude oil exports. It was one of the last of imports, and the artificially low prices KUWAIT: Yala Go, a new entrant to the ride 54 nations to back the agreement, only mean 10 percent to 20 percent of hailing market announced the launch of its signing on last month. Just Eritrea, which Nigerian fuel is smuggled to neighboring services in Kuwait yesterday. Well-prepared did not participate in the negotiations, has Benin, according to estimates by the to address the pain-points currently faced by not approved the deal. Now that Nigeria Major Oil Marketers Association of users of ride hailing, it is equipped to trans- is in, however, some trade experts fear its Nigeria (MOMAN). Import controls on form the space, thereby, increasing the level long history of economic protectionism rice, imposed even as local farmers fail to of convenience for customers. Yala Go would and tepid support for the AfCFTA will meet demand, have kept prices artificially provide services without any surcharges and The company will also bring in new tech- We have a fleet of 1,000 taxis and count- undermine the bloc. high and led to smuggling from Benin cancellation fees. nology and innovation in its features and ing, with well-trained and professional driv- “If Nigeria, after signing, decides not to into Nigeria. Speaking at the launch, Joe Mathews, CEO service model that will lead to major transfor- ers. Along with making it one of the most implement, there will be a problem. There Still, the measures are largely support- of Yala Go, said, “Having gained the experi- mation in the industry. Every person irre- affordable and safest taxi services, Yala Go are so many administrative ways in which ed in Nigeria, particularly among manu- ence in the ride hailing industry, I understand spective of the social classification they also ensures that all documents are vetted Nigeria can frustrate this agreement,” said facturers such as Adeleye, who says fellow the customer’s perspective and want to fill the belong should have easy access to taxis in and that every car undergoes a vigilant Bismarck Rewane, CEO of Lagos-based stationers have benefited from a ban on existing gaps through efficient service. We Kuwait and making it the safest, reliable and inspection before on-boarding. Customers consultancy Financial Derivatives imports made from a type of paper that believe in the vision of rendering taxi to all preferred taxi services in the country. The can download the Yala Go app from Google Company (FDC). would compete with their products. He the classes of society whereby making it primary objective and vision being safety of Play Store and app store. Currently based in fears joining the African free trade area more of a utility, a need for the masses rather women and children, makes us the people’s Kuwait, Yala Go soon plans to expand to oth- Giant underdog? could sweep away such advantages. “They than just a luxury service”. first choice for ride hail services in Kuwait. er cities and countries in the future. The size of Nigeria’s economy - a have to stay in place,” he said. — Reuters 14 Established 1961 Business Wednesday, August 7, 2019 Jazeera Airways launches flights to London Gatwick First LCC in Mideast to fly long-haul, longest commercial route served by A320neo

KUWAIT: Jazeera Airways, Kuwait’s leading low-cost Stephen King, Gatwick’s Head of Airline Relations, airline, operating regionally and internationally, yester- added: “This important new route to Kuwait further day announced it will start flying to London on October strengthens Gatwick’s network of connections to the 27, 2019, serving the British capital in new A320neo air- Middle East. It provides exciting new opportunities for craft with daily flights. Britain to do business with a country at the forefront of This will be the first new service to the UK from the oil, financial services and technology industries. It’s Kuwait in 55 years. Landing at London Gatwick Airport fantastic news that Jazeera Airways has joined South Terminal where access to the Gatwick Express Gatwick’s extensive roster of long-haul airlines and train connects passengers directly to central London, the we’re really looking forward to welcoming them to the airline has scheduled timings conveniently leaving early airport in October.” mornings from Kuwait and landing just in time for lunch Jazeera Airways will serve London with a cabin con- in London, or mid-afternoon on Saturdays. Prices will figuration in three classes: Business Class, a new start from KD 60 one-way in Economy Class, KD 125 in Premium Economy Class and Economy Class. The Premium Economy Class and KD 250 in Business Class. Business Class offers passengers a 33-inch seat pitch, Speaking of the milestone launch, Jazeera Airways 50 kilograms in baggage allowance, priority boarding Chairman, Marwan Boodai, said: “What better way to and a complementary inflight meal. The Premium continue our expansion in 2019 than to announce Economy Class offers passengers a 31-inch seat pitch, London as a new destination of the year. This is a first while Economy Class offers a 29/30-inch seat pitch. for a Low-Cost Carrier in the Middle East to fly long- Hot meals will be provided for the first time on Jazeera haul, using our new A320neo aircraft. We are very flights - complimentary in Business Class and Premium excited to be providing our passengers with one of the Economy, and from the Jazeera Cafe menu for Economy most popular destinations from Kuwait and the region passengers. and we expect high demand for the route.” Bookings for the Kuwait-London flights are avail- Commenting on the new service between Kuwait able at jazeeraairways.com, via the Jazeera App or by and London, Michael Davenport MBE, Ambassador to calling 177. The Jazeera Terminal T5 provides passen- the State of Kuwait, said: “I am delighted to see Jazeera gers with the ease and comfort of traveling with 12 Airways launching this new service between Kuwait check-in counters, eight self-check-in kiosks, dedicat- and London Gatwick, made possible by the new Air ed passport and security control procedures, duty free Services Agreement signed last year. It is really encour- shops and restaurants, as well as free WiFi internet aging, as we mark the 120th Anniversary of the service available for passengers when boarding at the Kuwaiti-British Treaty of Friendship, to see more T5 gates. T5 also has a dedicated number at 176 and Kuwaitis visiting Britain and studying at British univer- Help Team on-ground to respond to passengers’ sities than ever before.” queries and guide them through the Terminal. KFH announces Turkish Airlines, Maryam Bakhait Bangkok as the winner Airways in new of BMW 420i codeshare deal KUWAIT: Turkish Airlines (TK) and Bangkok Airways Public Company KUWAIT: Kuwait Finance House (KFH) Limited (PG) have announced a new announced Maryam Bakhait Mubarak codeshare partnership, which will pro- Bakhait as the winner of the second BMW vide their passengers with convenient Bilal Eksi 420i. The draw is part of Win with Hesabi travel connections from Turkey to desti- campaign that offers 2 BMW 420i and 120 nations in Thailand and other cities in cooperation with Bangkok Airways by cash prizes worth KD 250. Southeast Asia, commencing on 1st expanding it with a codeshare agree- The winner was received at the KFH Auto August, 2019. Under this agreement, ment. As one of the important gateways Showroom in Shuwaikh under the supervi- codeshare flights operated by Bangkok to Asia Pacific in the region, our passen- sion of the Ministry of Commerce and Airways currently covers 16 roundtrip gers will benefit and enjoy greater con- Industry. Maryam Bakhait expressed her routes on both domestic and interna- venience when connecting to popular happiness in winning the car, praising the tional; Bangkok-Chiang Mai, Bangkok- Thailand domestic destinations as well advantages offered by KFH to Hesabi cus- Chiang Rai, Bangkok-Lampang, as other neighboring exciting travel des- tomers including discounts, prizes and exclu- Bangkok-Sukhothai, Bangkok-Trat, tinations via Bangkok.” sive rewards. Bangkok-Samui, Bangkok-Phuket, Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, Once the social allowance is transferred to Bangkok-Krabi, Samui-Phuket, President of Bangkok Airways said; Hesabi program, customers enter the monthly Bangkok-Danang, Bangkok-Phu Quoc, “Bangkok Airways is very pleased to draw on a prize of KD 250, in addition to Bangkok-Yangon, Bangkok-Mandalay, work with Turkish Airlines, a leading cars. KFH offers “Hesabi for Youth” with a Bangkok-Nay Pyi Taw, Bangkok- international airline as the codeshare variety of privileges as part of its continued Vientiane and Bangkok - Luang partner to strengthen our respective endeavor to provide adequate customer care, The winner receiving her award Prabang. In addition, there are two more route networks. This will offer business innovate new products and services and fulfill roundtrip routes that are subject to and leisure travelers enhanced connec- the needs of all customers of various age cat- obtaining government approval which tivity and seamless access while travel- egories and interests. Services and products youth many exclusive offers and a wide range Youth represents the ambitions and expecta- are Bangkok-Phnom Penh and Bangkok- ing in Thailand and our neighboring are tailored to suit customers’ needs and pro- of privileges including Hesabi ATM card with tions of youth category and copes with KFH Siem Reap. countries. Moreover, Turkish Airlines’ vide distinguished service as per global stan- a unique design, eligibility to issue Hesabi aspirations to attract the largest portion of Commenting on this agreement passengers traveling on Bangkok dards regarding quality, accuracy and speed. prepaid card (as per credit regulations of youth who represents the major part of Turkish Airlines General Manager, Bilal Airways will enjoy the boutique airline’s Hesabi” program has been designed to KFH), distinguished offers and discounts etc. Kuwaiti society. Also, the account represents Eksi said; “Turkish Airlines is pleased to unparalleled services such as lounge meet the needs of youth and aspire for their KFH continues to launch marketing cam- KFH initiative to diversify banking services strengthen the long lasting commercial access and in-flight meal.” active life style. This program presents for paigns to reward youth customers. Hesabi for and products We got our hands on Huawei Mate 20 X (5G) phone and here is our verdict KUWAIT: 5G is on and regional telecom higher efficiency for your phone. operators are quickly developing 5G com- mercial deployments. GCC countries are in Matrix Triple Camera the 1st wave of 5G rollout. Timing is every- Huawei has made the Huawei Mate 20 X thing, people often say. That’s why Huawei is (5G) with Leica cameras. On the back, there’s launching the Huawei Mate 20 X (5G), cur- a triple camera array in a distinctive square: rently claimed as the King of 5G 40MP wide angle camera, 20MP ultra-wide Smartphones and Huawei’s first commercial camera and 8MP telephoto lens. Up front, 5G smartphone in the market. It is worth there’s a 24MP selfie camera. The Huawei positioned because it already traded pointing out that Huawei started developing Mate 20 X (5G) can produce astonishing Rolls-Royce under WTO rules. “We would obviously its 5G technology as early as 2009 and have snaps in a variety of scenarios, ultra-wide and prefer a deal because that is probably the hired thousands of employees engaged in 5G macro shots. best chance of providing certainty for development or invested $1.4 billion in this expresses business, but we’ve always been pre- technology only in 2017-18. Seamless gaming experience pared for contingency-prepared for a The Huawei Mate 20 X (5G) was launched The Huawei Mate 20 X (5G) has an enor- optimism over no-deal of some kind,” East added. last month, let’s discover more about it. mous 7.2-inch OLED FHD+ screen2. It is so “We’re not a ‘just-in-time’ business huge! For hard gamers, this is an experience like some other businesses, so we are Super-fast 5G like no other. You have a 7.2 inch screen to Brexit plans actually in a much stronger position than The Huawei Mate 20 X (5G) provides a enjoy with minor little circle hanging down others. “As far as tariffs and the like are theoretical speed of up to 4.6Gbps download from the top center. Even if you’re running concerned, then most of our business is in speed, saving you lots of time and frustration graphically-intensive games at high settings, LONDON: UK enginemaker Rolls- aerospace and WTO rules apply any- when streaming and downloading. Huawei this device stays cool and responsive thanks Royce yesterday expressed confidence way.” Rolls-Royce has spent £100 million Mate 20 X (5G) is compatible with multiple to the integration of Huawei SuperCool - a over plans for Britain’s departure from the ($121 million, 109 million euros) to pre- generations of network technology including groundbreaking cooling solution that utilizes European Union, but revealed that the pare for Britain’s EU exit. Yesterday, Rolls 4G, 3G and 2G1. Regardless of your mobile graphene film and vapor chamber to deliver pound’s Brexit-fuelled slump has left it also reported “good progress” on fixing network maturity, high speed connectivity is an outstanding cooling performance. languishing in the red. There is an problems with its troubled Trent 1000 guaranteed thanks to two chipsets: Kirin 980 cent of your device in just 30 minutes. increased chance that Britain will crash plane engines. However the group’s total and 5G multi-mode chipset Balong 5000. Long-lasting battery out of the EU in October with no trade net loss still hit £909 million in the six While some 5G phones support only Non- It’s quite unfortunate when your device Verdict deal in place under new Prime Minister months to June. That compared with a Standalone (NSA) networking mode, Huawei dies down and you do not know if the header If you want to be among the first ones to Boris Johnson, meaning it would default broadly similar after-tax loss of £954 Mate 20 X (5G) is the only 5G smartphone* was a goal or got deflected. Thankfully, you try out the 5G, the Huawei Mate 20 X (5G) or to the World Trade Organization (WTO) million a year earlier. The 2019 perform- to support both NSA and Standalone (SA). don’t experience this with the Huawei Mate the King of 5G Smartphones is an interesting tariff system. ance was partly skewed by a hefty £763- The SA, the recent version of networking 20 X (5G). It has a massive 4200mAh and device packed with excellent features that is Chief Executive Warren East, speaking million charge on the tumbling value of mode, ensures a better performance and Huawei 40W SuperCharge to top up 70 per- worth your serious consideration. to BBC radio, said Rolls-Royce was well the British pound. —AFP 15 Established 1961 What’s On Wednesday, August 7---, 2019

Eid Al-Adha escapades: The Jumeirah Edition s the much-awaited long weekend is around the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray corner, look no further than Jumeirah to plan Nestled on Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is a Ayour dream getaway. Whether you prefer a recreational haven complete with a pristine private beach, daycation or an extended stay, you and your loved an infinity pool, award-winning restaurants, and an ener- ones can experience an array of indoor and outdoor gizing spa - ideal for a fine retreat from the city rush. activities at the opulent Jumeirah properties, with Make the most of your summer days at luxurious resort activities ranging from pampering spa treatments and with the ‘Daycation’ package. Cool off at the 59-metre sumptuous fine dining to exhilarating water parks and infinity pool or swim in the ocean at the pristine private thrilling desert horse-rides. To help you create beauti- beach. ful Instagrammable moments with your loved ones, Proceed to pamper yourself at the award-winning Jumeirah Group has unveiled its list of Eid offers that Talise Ottoman Spa with a 45-minute Turkish Hammam are sure to lead you to your next unforgettable experience or 45-minute massage treatment. Relish a retreat. complimentary international set lunch at Plaj Restaurant or dinner at the signature Turkish restaurant - Lalezar to DUBAI sample Istanbul’s delicacies. Tuck into a sumptuous Eid- special brunch at Imperium restaurant, known for blending Jumeirah Beach Hotel the best of Arabic and international cuisines. Because the Heartfelt and personal, timelessly fun, situated upon true joy of Eid is found with loved ones, the brunch is a one of the region’s most impressive beaches, Jumeirah family affair packed with live entertainment, kids’ activities Beach Hotel is the archetype of coastal nostalgia. A and much more. contemporary five-star family destination, it offers an elevated experience of relaxed luxury. From the beach ABU DHABI cabanas, kids club, outdoor and indoor dining, a beau- tiful lobby and arrival, through to the guest rooms with Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa the best views of the Burj Al Arab anywhere in the city, Set deep within the desert landscape, this luxurious the Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a jewel that must be seen resort is located 50 km to the south east of Abu Dhabi, in and experienced. Stay at Jumeirah Al Qasr, Jumeirah an area where natural beauty abounds. Designed to evoke insight into Emirati culture, combine your ride with a Arabian Gulf and the breathtakingly beautiful scenery and Mina A’Salam, Jumeirah Al Naseem or Jumeirah Dar Al the atmosphere of a traditional Bedouin village, a soothing Bedouin falconry display. undisturbed wildlife. Take advantage of the UAE Residents Masyaf and enjoy access to the souk, palm-fringed sense of understated elegance pervades, and the property offer or the GCC Breaks offer with complimentary buffet waterways and the stunning 2km private beach. This is enriched with timeless local detail. Gallop over the Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort breakfast at White, access to ‘SPA’ for hydra pool, Rhassoul collection of hotels offers a truly magical destination dunes on horseback to get a better understanding of the Experience island life at its best at the eco-friendly chamber, sauna and steam room, and complimentary use of for those who wish to step back in time. Emirati passion for all things equine. And for even more Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort. It’s hard to beat the ‘Bodyism Wellness Centre’ facilities. The offer also includes views of the 400m beautiful white sandy beach on the unlimited access to the kids and teens clubs.

and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Combine This Chinese salt black peppercorns, Sichuan peppercorns, sugar, and The key to making Preparation cayenne in small bowl. For the salad: Adjust oven rack to middle position Heat oil in large Dutch oven over medium heat until your raw kale tender and heat oven to 400 F. Toss sweet potatoes with oil and pepper shrimp oil registers 385 F. Meanwhile, drain shrimp and pat dry and season with salt and pepper. Arrange potatoes in with paper towels; wipe bowl dry with paper towels. single layer in rimmed baking sheet and roast until is a savory-spicy joy Transfer shrimp to now-empty bowl, add 3 tablespoons is a little massage browned, 25 to 30 minutes, flipping potatoes halfway cornstarch and 1 tablespoon peppercorn mixture, and through roasting. Transfer to plate and let cool for 20 toss until well coated. e love the earthy flavor of uncooked kale, minutes. Meanwhile, vigorously squeeze and massage here’s probably no recipe that better showcases Carefully add one-third of shrimp to hot oil and fry, but the texture of raw kale can be a little kale with hands until leaves are uniformly darkened salt and pepper working in multiple ways and stirring occasionally to keep shrimp from sticking Wtough. Many recipes call for tossing it with and slightly wilted, about 1 minute. together than Chinese salt and pepper shrimp, an together, until light brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Adjust burner, dressing and letting it tenderize in the fridge For the vinaigrette: Whisk water, pomegranate T molasses, shallot, honey, vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, enticing dish of plump, moist fried shrimp with shells as if necessary, to maintain oil temperature between 375 F overnight. This method didn’t deliver the tender leaves shatteringly crispy and appealing to eat as fried chicken and 385 F. Using wire skimmer or slotted spoon, transfer we were after, and the long sitting time wasn’t very and 1/4 teaspoon pepper together in large bowl. skin, and a killer savory-spicy flavor profile. A quick shrimp to prepared plate and let drain briefly. Transfer convenient. Luckily, we found another technique that Whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in oil. salt-rice wine soak improved the shrimp’s texture, shrimp to prepared rack and keep warm in oven. Return worked better and faster: massaging. Squeezing and Add potatoes, kale, and radicchio to vinaigrette plumping them, as well as contributing flavor; the oil to 385 F and repeat frying shrimp in 2 more batches, massaging the kale broke down the cell walls in much and gently toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper Sichuan peppercorns gave the dish sparkling spice and re-tossing each batch thoroughly with coating mixture the same way that heat would, darkening the leaves to taste. Transfer to serving platter and sprinkle with aromatic piquancy, while black peppercorns provided a before frying. Line plate with clean paper towels as and turning them silky. pecans and shaved Parmesan to taste. Serve. straightforward hit of heat. needed. Caramelized roasted sweet potatoes, shredded We added the black peppercorns and Sichuan pep- Return oil to 385 F. Toss jalapeno rings with remain- radicchio, crunchy pecans, a sprinkling of Parmesan percorns along with cayenne and sugar to the coating ing 2 tablespoons cornstarch in separate bowl. Shake off cheese, and a sweet pomegranate vinaigrette turned and then fried more of the same with ginger and garlic excess cornstarch, then carefully add jalapeno rings to our salad into a hearty meal. If you can’t find pome- to make a flavorful paste that we tossed the fried shrimp oil and fry until crisp, 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer jalapeno granate molasses, you can make your own. Tuscan in for great depth. For an extra jolt of spiciness, we also rings to prepared plate. After frying, reserve 2 table- kale (also known as dinosaur or Lacinato kale) is more fried a couple of thinly sliced jalapenos. We like to use spoons frying oil. tender than curly-leaf and red kale; if using curly-leaf frozen shrimp; thaw them overnight in the fridge or Heat reserved oil in 12 inch skillet over medium-high or red kale, increase the massaging time to 5 minutes. under running cold water and blot them dry. Use a heat until shimmering. Add garlic, ginger, and remaining Do not use baby kale. Dutch oven that holds 6 quarts or more for this recipe. peppercorn mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until Serve with steamed white rice. mixture is fragrant and just beginning to brown, about 45 seconds. Add shrimp, scallions, and 1/2 teaspoon salt and toss to coat. Line serving platter with shredded let- Kale salad with tuce. Arrange shrimp on platter and sprinkle with Crispy salt and jalapeno rings. Serve immediately. sweet potatoes pepper shrimp and pomegranate Ingredients Servings: 4-6 vinaigrette Start to finish: 1 hour 1 1/2 pounds shell-on medium-large shrimp (31 to 40 Ingredients per pound) Servings: 6-8 2 tablespoons Chinese rice wine or dry sherry Start to finish: 1 hour 2 1/2 teaspoons black peppercorns, coarsely ground Salad: 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns, coarsely ground 1 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled, cut into 1/2- 2 teaspoons sugar inch pieces 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil 4 cups vegetable oil Salt and pepper 5 tablespoons cornstarch 12 ounces Tuscan kale, stemmed and sliced cross- 2 jalapeno chiles, stemmed, seeded, and sliced into 1/8 wise into 1/2-inch-wide strips (7 cups) inch-thick rings 1/2head radicchio (5 ounces), cored and sliced thin 3 garlic cloves, minced 1/3cup pecans, toasted and chopped 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger Shaved Parmesan cheese 2 scallions, sliced thin on bias Vinaigrette: Shredded iceberg lettuce 2 tablespoons water 1 1/2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses Preparation 1 small shallot, minced Adjust oven rack to upper-middle position and heat 1 tablespoon honey oven to 225 F. Set wire rack in rimmed baking sheet and 1 tablespoon cider vinegar line large plate with triple layer of paper towels. Toss Salt and pepper shrimp with rice wine and 1 teaspoon salt in large bowl 1/4cup extra-virgin olive oil 16 Health & Science Wednesday, August 7, 2019 Beaches choked with stinky seaweed is the new normal

MIAMI BEACH: Slimy, stinky brown seaweed that ruins has turned brown. Barbados recently declared a nation- beachgoers’ vacations from Mexico to Florida may be al emergency. Mexico has called in the navy to restore the new normal unless Brazil halts Amazon deforesta- the beauty of tourist hub Cancun. “I don’t know what’s tion, experts say. The culprit, called sargassum, turns going on but it’s really not a good sight to see, you clear-blue sea water a murky brown and smells like rot- know what I’m saying? We’re tourists,” said Sed ten eggs when it washes ashore and starts to rot. Walker, 48, who was visiting from Los Angeles. The seaweed is a natural occurrence on beaches in A study published in July by the University of South the Caribbean and elsewhere. It’s part of an ecosystem Florida in the journal Science concluded that the sea- for fish, crabs and birds. But it has proliferated dramati- weed problem, which started in 2001 and showed peaks cally in recent years, covering shores with thick layers in 2015 and 2018, is here to stay. Satellite imagery of the weed and forcing tourism officials to clean it up shows blooms of sargassum form at the mouth of the so visitors keep coming. It is an icky nuisance for Amazon. From there it spreads across the Atlantic, from tourists and an economic and environmental disaster. the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico to Africa. “We came from over there, looking for a spot that is Scientists named it the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt cleaner. But it is this way everywhere,” said Maria (GASB). In 2015 and 2018, it stretched over nearly Guadalupe Vazquez, 70, pointing off into the horizon as 5,592 miles. In June of last year, its biomass exceeded she lounges in a beach chair in Miami Beach. Authorities 20 million tons. brought in trucks and front-loaders Friday to scoop the The study blamed the sargassum explosion on dis- stuff up and haul it away. They know this is no long- charges of fertilizer in the Amazon and natural nutrients term solution, however. One problem is global warming along the coast of Africa. “A critical question is whether — the hotter the ocean, the more these weeds repro- we have reached the point where recurrent GASB and duce, said Steve Leatherman, an environmental expert beaching events may become the new norm,” wrote at Florida International University. Chuanmin Hu, the lead author of the study and a profes- But the bigger problem is the Amazon river, he sor of optical oceanography at the university. “Under added. Scientists say that starting around 2011, much more land along that mighty waterway was cleared for continued nutrient enrichment due to deforestation and fertilizer use in agriculture,” Hu wrote, “the answer is farming. But it yields a poor, muddy red soil so farmers MIAMI: Sargassum seaweed covers the shore of Miami Beach. — AFP use a lot of fertilizer, which rains wash into the river, likely positive.” — AFP where it flows into the Atlantic. And the fertilizer ends up fertilizing the sargassum. “Now there’s 20, or 30, 50 times more, 100 times more than we’ve ever had before,” said Leatherman. “We think this is going to be ambulance personnel and mortuary and Johnson&Johnson vaccine also be ness. It will also look at safety and the the new normal so we are going to have to find a way to Uganda begins burial teams, in the western district of rolled out in order to meet needs. attitudes of participants towards the deal with this, and it’s going to be difficult,” said Mbarara, the MRC said in a statement. However, the latter move has been vaccine, the MRC said. Professor Leatherman, aka Dr. Beach, as he drove by piles of sar- MRC spokeswoman Pamela Nabukenya resisted. Critics have cautioned against Pontiano Kaleebu, the lead Ugandan gassum on Miami Beach. trial of Ebola Wairagala said vaccinations had introducing a new product in communi- researcher in the trial, said developing a already begun. The MRC said the trial ties where mistrust of Ebola responders reliable vaccine was a key component ‘Environmental disaster’ vaccine: would be led by Ugandan researchers is already high. Congo’s former health to controlling Ebola epidemics. The stuff is nothing new. When Christopher and supported by the London School of minister, Oly Ilunga, who stepped down “In this trial we hope to avail more Columbus saw a bloom of sargassum to the west of the Health officials Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. in July, was among the detractors. information that will help us work Bahamas, it was so thick he thought it was an island. At present there is no licensed drug The MRC said the Johnson&Johnson towards having a licenced Ebola vac- That was out at sea, however. “What happens out in to prevent or treat Ebola although a vaccine “is safe” and had been tested cine,” Kaleebu said in a statement. the Atlantic Ocean, it’s fine. But now this is an economic range of experimental drugs are in on more than 6,000 people in Europe, Uganda has suffered Ebola outbreaks and environmental disaster,” said Leatherman. The per- KAMPALA: Uganda said Monday it had started a trial of an experimental development. The Congo outbreak is the US and African nations including in the past but nothing on the scale nicious effects are many: fishing boats have trouble the first time that a vaccine has been Uganda. However, its efficacy is unclear of the Congo epidemic, which began starting their engines. Beaches are disgusting for Ebola vaccine that may be used in neighboring Democratic Republic of used as a full-scale weapon against the because it has never been assessed in in August 2018. It is the second- tourists. Fish choke because the seaweed absorbs too virus. Health authorities have been an outbreak scenario. By comparison, worst outbreak on record, eclipsed much oxygen. Turtles struggle to find a place to lay Congo, where an outbreak has killed more than 1,800 people. The trial of the issuing the rVSV-ZEBOV vaccine, rVSV-ZEBOV was introduced in only by 2013-2016 epidemic in West eggs. When they do, the babies cannot make it from developed by US pharma group Merck Guinea towards the end of a 2013-16 Africa, which killed more than 11,300 the shore out to sea. And dead seaweed sinks, smother- MVA-BN vaccine developed by Johnson&Johnson is expected to last — a product that has yet to be licensed epidemic in West Africa, enabling scien- out of 29,000 documented cases. ing coral reefs. but has been shown to be safe and tists to conclude it was effective. Uganda has been declared Ebola- No one has calculated how much damage is being two years, Uganda’s Medical Research Council (MRC) said. effective. The trial taking place in Uganda, free though in June three people done to countries’ fishing and tourism industries. In the The World Health Organization where there is no Ebola, will look at the from one family died there from the British Virgin Islands, the layer of seaweed is seven feet The vaccine will be administered to up to 800 health professionals and (WHO) has called for its deployment to response of the immune system to the hemorrhagic fever after crossing (two meters) thick. Punta Cana, a beach in the be expanded and has recommended the vaccine — a key pointer of effective- back from Congo. — AFP Dominican Republic that is famous for its clear water, frontline workers such as cleaners, 17

Wednesday, August 7, 2019

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Call: 24833199 ext:101,102 or Direct line: 24835616 / 24835617 or email: [email protected] 18 Established 1961 Stars Wednesday, August 7, 2019

CROSSWORD 2277 STAR TRACK

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

This is your time for a new beginning and a fresh start. You have This is day that all that is different and unusual seem to appeal to you. already started making many positive changes in your life. Make sure the new Dress for your mood! Grab attention. Laugh out loud. This is a day to let your wild habit patterns you are starting are the best ones, as these will become habits side come out and play. You will find this a great day to hit the road and turn up the you will keep for some time to come. Meal planning, a gym membership, and radio. A long drive or day trip may be just what you need to break out of your old rou- exercise in general will be come a new way of life for you. You have to work tine. Clearing your mind may bring solutions to day-to-day problems. A new outlook on your mental discipline and keep your level of determination strong. This is on life will be of great value in the days to come. a great time to ask a friend to join you on this journey. We all need to be accountable to someone. This will be a great inspiration to you and you will be appreciated and admired for encouraging someone to be a part of your journey. Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

This is your time for a new beginning and a fresh start. You have already started making many positive changes in your life. Make sure the new habit patterns you Taurus (April 20-May 20) are starting are the best ones, as these will become habits you will keep for some time to come. Meal planning, a gym membership, and exercise in general will be come a new way of life for you. You have to work on your mental discipline and keep your level of Your hard work is paying off. You will soon see the results. Try determination strong. This is a great time to ask a friend to join you on this journey. We not to be too hard on others who are not as careful as you. They can be help- all need to be accountable to someone. This will be a great inspiration to you and you ful. Just be sure you check their input and see that it meets your standards. will be appreciated and admired for encouraging someone to be a part of your journey. Don’t settle for sloppy work.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

This is a great day for your career wise. You may be just the one for the Gemini (May 21-June 20) job that is coming available. It is an awesome day of harmony with not ACROSS DOWN only your friends but with your co- workers. Your ideas and input are greatly appreci- 1. Annual grass of Europe and North Africa. 1. An organization of countries formed in If at first you don’t succeed. . .you know the old saying. It is true. ated today. Stick to your routine and stay true to yourself and you will experience a 4. Having sections or patches colored differ- 1961 to agree on a common policy for Nobody ever won by giving up. Visualize what you want to happen. Make a great since of admiration from others. Even though today may find you in a very ently and usually brightly. the sale of petroleum. plan to as to what you need to make it happen. If things to do go as planned impulsive mood, resist temptation and think long and hard about decisions you make 2. An Indian nursemaid who looks after chil- on your initial effort then do it again. Repetition is a good thing. You will today. You may be facing some life changing decisions. This is not only a great day to 11. A Bantu language spoken in Cameroon. organize your thoughts but also work on organizing your affairs and surroundings. 15. 100 pyas equal 1 kyat. dren. easily learn from your mistakes. Reach for the stars. 16. In some classifications this category does 3. A village in eastern Ireland (northwest of not include Leguminosae. Dublin). 17. A translucent mineral consisting of 4. A short introductory essay preceding the text of a book. hydrated silica of variable color. Capricorn (December 22-January 19) 18. The sense organ for hearing and equilibri- 5. An informal debt instrument. 6. A parliamentary monarchy in southwest- um. ) 19. Normal relaxed breathing. ern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. Cancer (June 21-July 22 Out with the old and in with the new. You are ready to develop new habit 21. Material consisting of seed coverings and 7. Large and brightly colored handkerchief. patterns and put to rest some of your old ways. New beginnings are on the horizon. small pieces of stem or leaves that have 8. A city in northwestern Syria. A bad thing can have good consequences in life. The way you This is a great time to get out and meet new people. A time of happiness and fresh been separated from the seeds. 9. Property that is leased or rented out or let. handled something unpleasant has enriched your life. You have come starts. You only have one chance at a first date, first impression, or first kiss. Make it a 10. An honorary degree in science. good one. Today will be a day you will look back on and smile. 23. A system of one or more computers and through the fire a stronger person. You are more beautiful than before. Your 11. A natural opening or perforation through associated software with common stor- life may not always be easy. You can handle whatever comes your way. Keep a bone or a membranous structure. you chin up and your eyes focused on the prize. age. 12. South American armadillo with three 24. American professional baseball player bands of bony plates. who hit more home runs than Babe Ruth 13. An international organization created in Aquarius (January 20- February 18) (born in 1934). 1949 by the North Atlantic Treaty for 25. A genus of Lamnidae. purposes of collective security. 27. Electronic warfare undertaken to insure 14. (Scottish) A narrow secluded valley (in You are entering a phase of emotional directness and may find yourself to effective friendly use of the electromag- the mountains). Leo (July 23-August 22) be very impulsive. Not putting thought into your decisions is a great way to get your- self in trouble. You are ready for a fresh start in life. Out with the old and in with the netic spectrum in spite of the enemy's 20. Large burrowing rodent of South and use of electronic warfare. new is your motto. All that does not bring happiness to your world will be what you Central America. easily turn your back on now. Be sure and make wise decisions as the new habits you 29. Of or relating to a caduceus. 22. A stroke of luck. A mentor is what you may find yourself becoming to a younger person in your life. You are admired for your strength. The choices you make develop will set the tone in your life for a long time to come. With determination and 32. Relating to of containing or affecting 26. A state in New England. focus you will become very successful. blood. 28. Affectedly trendy. in your own life are obviously good ones. You have become an inspiration for 36. Having the same or similar characteristics. 30. (zoology) Pertaining to alulae. many. Be thankful you are admired. 37. Medium-sized tree having glossy lanceo- 31. English theoretical physicist who applied late leaves. relativity theory to quantum mechanics and predicted the existence of antimat- 39. Acute ulceration of the mucous mem- Pisces (February 19-March 20) branes of the mouth or genitals. ter and the positron (1902-1984). 40. Qualities that attract by seeming to 33. A motorbike that can be pedaled or driv- promise some kind of reward. en by a low-powered gasoline engine. Virgo (August 23-September 22) You have always been one to say exactly what is on your mind. You may 43. A soft silver-white ductile metallic ele- 34. An iconic mental representation. find yourself extremely outspoken and impulsive today. You may find yourself feeling 35. A glancing rebound. very passionate today. You are ready for change. The changes you make today will ment (liquid at normal temperatures). You will experience success in the near future. It may not come 45. (in golf) The standard number of strokes 38. An edge tool with a heavy bladed head have a great effect on your life for a great while so resist the urge to make impulsive mounted across a handle. in the form of money. Happiness is not measured in gold or dollars. That decisions and put much thought into this. You may find yourself in a curious mood set for each hole on a golf course, or for doesn’t mean that happiness and financial success can’t come in the same possibly paying close attention to and even taking part in a gossip session today. You the entire course. 41. A neutral middle vowel. 42. A federal agency established to regulate package. If you play your cards right, you can have both. Your world is ready feel not only the need to discover what drives and motivates others but are spending 46. A flat wing-shaped process or winglike for what you have to offer. much of your time and focus trying to figure out the same about yourself. part of an organism. the release of new foods and health- 48. An ancient Hebrew unit of dry measure related products. equal to about a bushel. 44. A region of Malaysia in northeastern Borneo. 49. An inflated feeling of pride in your supe- 47. Someone who works (or provides work- Wordsearch Puzzle Yesterday’s Solution riority to others. ers) during a strike. 50. Light teasing repartee. 51. German mathematician who created the 53. In the same place (used when citing a Klein bottle (1849-1925). reference). 52. Genus of hardy perennials with palmately 55. A colorless and odorless inert gas. lobed leaves and long racemes of small 56. Legal document setting forth rules gov- nodding five-petaled flowers. erning a particular kind of activity. 54. A state in the Rocky Mountains. 57. A gradual decline (in size or strength or 58. Call upon in supplication. power or number). 60. A unit of elastance equal to the recipro- 59. A public promotion of some product or cal of a farad. service. 61. A drug (trade names Calan and Isoptin) 66. Of or relating to or characteristic of used as an oral or parenteral calcium Thailand of its people. blocker in cases of hypertension or con- 68. Primitive chlorophyll-containing mainly gestive heart failure or angina or aquatic eukaryotic organisms lacking migraine. true stems and roots and leaves. 62. English Romantic poet (1795-1821). 70. Paying particular notice (as to children or 63. A subsidiary proposition that is assumed helpless people). to be true in order to prove another 71. An account describing incidents or proposition. events. 64. Cubes of meat marinated and cooked on 73. Alternatively, a member of the family a skewer usually with vegetables. Nymphaeaceae. 65. A city in southern Turkey on the Seyhan 75. Perennial herb of East India to Polynesia River. and Australia cultivated for its large edi- 67. Precipitation of ice pellets when there are ble root yielding Otaheite arrowroot strong rising air currents. starch. 69. An inflammatory disease involving the 78. An adult male person (as opposed to a sebaceous glands of the skin. woman). 72. Belonging to or on behalf of a specified 79. (folklore) Fairies that are somewhat mis- person (especially yourself). chievous. 74. Any of numerous hairy-bodied insects including social and solitary species. 80. A native or inhabitant of Vietnam. 76. An official prosecutor for a judicial dis- 81. A loose sleeveless outer garment made trict. from aba cloth. 77. Before noon.

Yesterday’s Solution

Daily Sudoku Yesterday’s Solution Established 1961 Lifestyle

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2019

Pictures taken in Jember show Indonesian models displaying during the Jember Fashion Carnaval (JFC) in Jember. — AFP

ike a human wave every few minutes, two duce obligatory advance booking by the end of Frank and Jennifer, however, thought the whole hundred or so tourists surge towards the the year to try to control numbers. Already experience was “amazing”. “It’s beautiful... and L“Mona Lisa,” mobile phones in hand to angry staff closed the museum for a day in May better than I expected I was expecting a really ictoria’s Secret has hired the show is a fantasy”. Victoria’s Secret make the best of every second of their time in to protest about being overwhelmed by the spi- old building but it’s a really modern (setting) for Valentina Sampaio as its first and L Brands did not immediately front of the world’s most famous painting. raling numbers. old artifacts and art,” Frank added. transgender model, her agent respond to requests for comment or Hundreds of other hearts sink as museum atten- More than 10 million people visited the Visitors numbers usually peak at the Louvre V said yesterday, as the struggling lin- confirm reports of Razek’s departure. dants swiftly draw the rope across to hold back museum in 2018, with that record likely to be at Easter. But this year they have continued to gerie brand seeks to modernize its The high-profile lingerie retailer is the next wave of the queue that snakes round smashed again this year. With between 75 and soar over the summer, with government advice image. Daniel Robson at Premier rethinking its annual fashion show, the vast gallery in the Louvre in Paris. 80 percent of them-particularly Chinese and to seek shelter in air-conditioned spaces like Model Management in London, con- after criticism that it is sexist and out Nobody seems to notice the superb Rubens Americans-coming to see the “Mona Lisa”, the museums during two record heat waves in the firmed the Brazilian model had signed a of touch as network television viewing that line the walls of this monumental corner of museum’s vice managing director Vincent French capital further complicating matters. contract with Victoria’s Secret, but figures have slumped. the Richelieu wing-everyone is focused on the Pomarede insisted that booking a time slot was With queues worst in the peak early afternoon declined to comment further. Sampaio Sampaio, who has appeared on end of the queue and their big selfie moment. now essential. “A tourist who comes without a period, Pomarede is worried that the 30,000 posted a backstage Instagram photo of magazine covers including Vogue Paris, The queuing begins several hundred meters reservation runs the risk of waiting a long time people who pass in front of the “Mona Lisa” herself in a white dressing gown on a Vogue Brasil and Elle Mexico, is one of (yards) away under the museum’s glass pyramid and maybe even not getting in,” he told AFP. daily will stop visitors seeing some of Louvre’s shoot this week, with the hashtags a growing number of high-profile trans where tourists join the first of a series of stag- “It’s the only way to guarantee entry.” Pomarede many other treasures such as the Venus de Milo, #diversity and #new #vspink #cam- models, amid pressure for the fashion gered lines that will slowly lead them to their said many other major museums already require the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and its stag- paign, referring to Pink, the brand industry to become more diverse and brief audience with Leonardo Di Vinci’s master- people to book ahead. gering collection of 18th- and 19th-century launched in 2002 aimed at younger inclusive. Razek later apologized on piece. Last month, officials had to restrict French art. women. Victoria’s Secret, famed for the Twitter for his “insensitive” comment Booking compulsory access to the world’s most visited museum for Until the “Mona Lisa” returns to her home in jewel-encrusted bras and dazzling on trans models, saying, “We’ve had three days because of the chaos caused by “Before the end of the year, all visitors will her more controllable side gallery, “we are pro- “angel” wings worn by supermodels at transgender models come to castings ... queues to see the “Mona Lisa” in her new tem- have to make reservations,” he said. For Evelyn moting other itineraries for visitors to see other its annual fashion show, is battling And like many others, they didn’t make porary home in the Medici gallery. and Tai, tourists from Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur, work by Leonardo, as well as our Egyptian, falling sales as more women shift to it.” “I admire and respect their journey advanced booking made seeing the “Mona Lisa” Greek and Roman antiquities,” he added. In the cheaper bralettes and sports bras. to embrace who they really are,” said a Blockbuster Leonardo show “fairly painless”. “The line is pretty long... but meantime, the Louvre has borrowed some tricks The decision to use a transgender statement on Victoria’s Secret’s She will be returned to her traditional spot in we bought the ticket online so we got a desig- from the French capital’s road traffic manage- model follows a backlash against com- account. — Reuters the adjoining States Room-which is being refur- nated time.” “It is much better organized than ment system, including screens at the entrance ments by marketing chief of parent bished-just before a blockbuster Leonardo when I last came in 2000,” said Stan, a warning that the museum is full or crowded, as company L Brands, Ed Razek, in Vogue exhibition opens at the Louvre in October. But Taiwanese-American visitor from San Jose in well as warning on its website. — AFP last year, when he said he would not the disruption-exacerbated by an influx of California. Finally seeing the painting was “pret- use trans or plus-size models “because tourists escaping the fierce heat in the French ty cool”, said his 17-year-old son Andy, though capital in July-has pushed the Louvre to intro- he “wasn’t blown away by it”. New Yorkers 20 Established 1961

Lifestyle Travel Wednesday, August 7, 2019

ulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Guerrero Strachan, and inaugurated in 1926 by King Bahrain, revealed its first new destination Alfonso XIII as the Hotel Principe de Asturias. It has GMalaga - Costa del Sol in Spain. Commencing undergone many incarnations since then, including a stint 14 June and operating until 15 September 2019, Malaga as a field hospital during the Spanish Civil War and a 20- will be added as a seasonal summer destination as the year period as the city’s courthouse. airline continues revealing throughout the year its fur- The assiduous renovation returned this majestic edi- ther network expansion plans for 2019. Kuwait Times fice to its former glory, preserving or revitalizing many of along with other media personnel were invited on a trip its original features, including intricate Moorish carved to the new summer destination. wood arches, a beautiful first floor gallery, Andalusian Internationally renowned as the birthplace of Pablo tiling, hand-painted frescoes and ornate stucco ceilings. Picasso, Malaga is one of the oldest cities in the world, Set amongst beautifully landscaped grounds, this wel- and gateway to Spain’s beautiful Costa Del Sol. It is now comed addition to Europe’s pantheon of grand dame also a burgeoning cultural center, and has recently seen hotels features 190 rooms and suites; a fabulous ball- three major museum openings - the most significant room; five restaurants and bars including a rooftop chill being the five-year pop-up Centre Pompidou, housed in out zone; an intimate boutique spa; an outdoor pool; and a futuristic building on the waterfront and displaying a extensive meetings and events facilities. changing selection of 20th- and 21st century paintings by artists like Frida Kahlo and Marc Chagall.

The connecting flight from Kuwait - Bahrain - Malaga landed at Malaga - Costa del Sol International Airport where they were greeted by Juan Millan and escorted to Melia Marbella Banus Hotel. Susana Poras, Executive Consultant of Costa del Sol Tourism Board joined the group for the rest of the trip. The group then visited the city of Ronda on a guided tour through its Old Town and Reservatauro, a biosphere’s reserve declared by UNESCO. The group then headed for a stay at the Gran Hotel Miramar. Gran Hotel Miramar is the first grand luxury hotel ever built in the ancient Andalusian city of Malaga, and is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and part of the Santos Hotels hotel chain. A historic landmark building in the old city centre which has been painstak- ingly restored following a two year, 65m Euros overhaul, Gran Hotel Miramar has re-emerged as one of Europe’s foremost grand dames, firmly establishing Malaga on the global luxury travel map. The iconic building was designed by celebrated Spanish architect Fernando Established 1961 21

Lifestyle Travel Wednesday, August 7, 2019

Gulf Air The President of Costa del Sol Tourist Board and the “In line with our 5 year strategy to become the airline Provincial Government of Malaga, Francisco Salado, has of choice, and in light of the recent adaptation of the new congratulated Gulf Air on the decision to introduce, for boutique business model, we are adding a seasonal desti- the first time, a direct flight between Bahrain and Costa nation to cater to summer’s peak travel demand” said del Sol. “The new flight reinforces the importance of the Gulf Air’s Chief Executive Officer Kresimir Kucko. He objectives marked by the Tourist Board and its depart- ment of Connectivity & Emerging Markets. Gulf Air and Costa del Sol Tourist Board are already working on a co- marketing plan with the aim of promoting the destination and consolidating the flight frequency and future pro- gramming, based on a successful, ongoing, strategic alliance.” Earlier in 2019, Gulf Air announced its new boutique business model concept which will reinforce its focus on product and customer experience. As already done in the hospitality industry, Gulf Air will differentiate itself as a boutique airline that is unique in the way it operates comparing to airlines that are more volume driven. This approach will give the airline a competitive advantage that will translate in its new fleet, new Falcon Gold class offering, new exclusive products, new destinations for 2019 and its presence in the new terminal at Bahrain International Airport due to open towards the end of the year. also commented: “Malaga is known for its summer appeal With the new business model concept, Gulf Air aims as a holiday destination and is very popular to our cus- to grow strategically in size, expand to more boutique tomers in the region. Gulf Air is flying to a direct point in destinations in 2019 and continue its fleet modernization Spain for the first time and we are excited to offer this program by receiving additional 2 Boeing 787-9 opportunity to everyone this summer.” Dreamliner’s and 4 Airbus A320neos this year. 22 Established 1961

Wednesday, August 7, 2019 Lifestyle Travel

Bratislava Castle

he capital of Slovakia is in fact a beautiful, vibrant peaceful atmosphere of the memorial grounds, this makes Old Town city full of tones of fun activities and a lot of fasci- for a quiet spot to relax and escape the bustle of the old Tnating history that we can learn about. If you have town. already seen Euro Trip, there is a good chance that Bratislava will not be very high on the list of European Man At Work cities. After reading this article and viewing the photos The quirky man at work statue aka Cumil pokes his you will quickly see why spending a weekend in Michael’s Gate head out of a sewer pipe on the street with a cheeky grin Bratislava is the ideal choice for a fun city. on his face. It is debated whether he is trying to catch a Bratislava is located in the heart of Central Europe peek up women’s skirts or if he’s just taking a rest during a only a few hours away from Prague, Vienna and Budapest hard work day of cleaning the sewers. by train or bus, making it easily accessible from pretty At some point during your weekend in Bratislava, you much anywhere in Europe. Bratislava is a relatively small must head over to meet Cumil and grab a photo of the city in terms of European capitals yet it’s still the coun- cities’ most famous statue. He is pretty easy to find while try’s largest city. It’s set on the edge of the Danube River, you’re exploring the streets. Cumil isn’t the only bronze surrounded by the Carpathian mountains with an epic statue hanging out in Bratislava’s old town. It won’t take castle perched on a hill-top towering over the city below. you long to stumble upon his many friends that were origi- nally created in an effort to liven things up around the city Old Town Old Town post-Communist era. They quickly became popular with The highlight of most people’s visit to Bratislava is of tourists which led to the addition of many more of these course the historic old town. While exploring its many fun statues popping up around the town! winding streets and alleys, you’ll come across plenty of cute squares, fountains and pastel coloured facades Primate’s Palace that’ll make you want to stop and photograph! It’s full of This beautiful 18th century pale pink palace is hard to beautiful architecture, a ton of cafes and restaurants, and miss as it’s centrally located, only a few steps away from offers a lively and super fun pub scene. One of the main the main square. If you enter the Primate’s Palace, you can sites to see in the old town is the 13th century Town Hall enjoy beautiful red carpets, white walls with gold features building which has seen many changes to its appearance and gorgeous chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. over the years. It now houses the oldest museum in Don’t miss out on the Hall of Mirrors, the most famous Bratislava, The City Museum, which dates back to 1868 room of the Palace, as this is where the Peace Treaty and showcases the history of Bratislava and Slovakia, between Austria and France was signed in 1805. Slavin Memorial along with torture tools and other artifacts. You’ll catch a great view of the old town from the top of the tower. Bratislava Traditional Food Tour A great way to experience a new culture is to sample Michael’s Gate the local cuisine while learning the history behind it all. It’s This iconic symbol of Bratislava is the only preserved easy to sit down at any restaurant while you are on holi- gate to the old town making it one of the oldest buildings day, and just order what looks familiar; burgers and chips, in the town still standing! Michael’s Gate and its tower pizza, pasta etc. are located at the entrance to the old town and surround- If you book a traditional food tour during your week- ed by bustling streets with busy cafes and restaurants. end in Bratislava, you will be guaranteed to get a taste of Even if you aren’t looking for it, you’re almost guaranteed UFO Bridge and Tower delicious Slovakian cuisine while wandering through the to stumble upon it at some point during your stay! The If you want to relax while looking at the epic look, you city and stopping at various restaurants along the way. Museum of Arms is located inside of Michael’s Gate and will want to head to the UFO iconic tower in town. It is a You’ll get to hear all the interesting stories behind each tower. The museum costs 4,30 Euros and you’ll find his- 20-minute walk from the city center via the UFO Bridge. dish and learn plenty of Slovakian history from a local tory of the town’s fortifications as well as medieval Restaurant, UFO watch. tast.groove, is located at the top guide. weapons, military equipment and firearms. The observa- of the tower and is accessible by lift. tion platform at the top of the tower is what draws many Keep in mind that food and beverage prices are signifi- Free Walking Tour Man At Work tourists as it offers an awesome view of the castle, old cantly higher than downtown prices (pay per view/experi- What’s better than a free walking tour to get to know town, and streets below. ence). If you do not want to branch out, access to the the new city?! There is a walking tour that works twice a viewing platform, we recommend that you head to the day at 11:00 and 15:00. It includes most of the highlights Bratislava Castle tower around sunset so you can enjoy the magnificent that are in this article and much more! No need to reserve Bratislava castle dates back to the 9th century and has view! a place, just turn around. Best of all, it’s free! recently undergone a huge amount of restorative work to get it looking the way it does today. Slavin Memorial Bratislava Card The city’s main landmark can be seen from pretty This war memorial is located on a hill near the castle The Bratislava card offers free access to museums, much anywhere in Bratislava and is easily accessible by and it’s a 30 min walk from the town center. Another attractions and tours in the area as well as unlimited travel foot from the old town. Once you climb your way up the option to get there is to take the bus (number 203 or 207) on public transport for 24 hours. Save yourself a bunch of hill and arrive at the castle, you’ll be rewarded with which still involves a fair amount of walking to and from money during your weekend trip by grabbing a Bratislava Primate’s Palace panoramic views looking out over the Danube River, the bus stop, as you can see below. The Slavin memorial is card before you go! medieval town, UFO bridge and tower as well as the rest a monument and cemetery dedicated to the fallen Soviet Tourism in Slovakia offers natural landscapes, moun- of the city below. Exploring the castles surrounding gar- soldiers who liberated the city during World War II. The tains, caves, medieval castles and towns, folk architecture, dens won’t cost anything but if you want to go inside, main monument lies in the center of the cemetery and was spas and ski resorts. Welcome to a marvellous land of you’ll have to purchase your ticket at the front door. built-in 1960 to commemorate the 15th anniversary national parks, mountains, valleys, forests and rivers Tickets also include entry to the Museum of History With sweeping views over the city below and the which covers the history of the castle and surrounding area in great detail and displays a collection of artifacts from ancient times. Once you enter the castle, you’ll find a majestic hall with beautiful white walls decorated in gold detailing as well as a big red carpet - making for excellent photo opportunities. Make sure you find your way to the Crown Tower - the oldest and tallest tower of the castle. Through a series Blue Church of steep staircases and narrow passageways, you’ll be led to the top of the tower which will give the most breath- taking views of the city, river and surrounding mountains.

Blue Church This unique and photo-worthy church looks like it was taken straight from a fairy tale book! The interesting design and unexpected blue color is what attracts many tourists to this pretty church. It’s a 10 minute walk from the town canter and you might need Google maps to direct you but it’s worth the walk, especially on a sunny UFO Bridge and Tower day! Classifieds Wednesday, August 7, 2019

ing in Kuwait at CHANGE OF NAME present,hereby declare that henceforth my name will be I, NETTARWALA FOZIA read as Given Name: Sabah Hospital 24812000 FIROZ, holder of Indian JOAQUIM ANTÓNIO Passport No. J3509812, hav- FILOMENO CÉSAR and Last Amiri Hospital 22450005 ing permanent address 6/62 Name: HENRIQUES (C 5665) Maternity Hospital 24843100 Meenakshi Apts., Dockyard 6-8-2019 Road, Mazgaon, Mumbai Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital 25312700 400010, residing in Kuwait I, SUSAN JOHN (given at present, hereby declare name) holder of Indian Chest Hospital 24849400 that henceforth my name Passport S 3697819 do here- will be read as given name: Farwaniya Hospital 24892010 by change my name to FOZIA FIROZ and surname: SUSAN (given name) JOHN Adan Hospital 23940620 NETTARWALA (C 5570) (surname) for all purposes. I 7-8-2019 also undertake to effect the Ibn Sina Hospital 24840300 change in all my other pub- I, JOAQUIM ANTONIO lic documents. Al-Razi Hospital 24846000 FILOMENO CAESAR HEN- (C 5664) 5-8-2019 RIQUES holder of Indian Physiotherapy Hospital 24874330/9 Passport No. P7117842, hav- ing permanent address at Molla,Chandor, Salcete, Goa- India,PinCode 403714, resid- 112 Kaizen center 25716707 Rawda 22517733 Adaliya 22517144 Khaldiya 24848075 Airlines

Kaifan 24849807 Kuwait Airways 171 Jazeera Airways 177 Shamiya 24848913 Wataniya Airways 22 066 536 Turkish Airlines 1884918 Shuwaikh 24814507 American Airlines 22087425 22087426 Abdullah Salem 22549134 Jet Airways 22924455 FlyDubai 22414400 Nuzha 22526804 Qatar Airways 22423888 KLM 22425747 Industrial Shuwaikh 24814764 Royal Jordanian 22418064/5/6 British Airways 22425635 Qadsiya 22515088 Air France 22430224 Emirates 22921555 Dasmah 22532265 Air India 22456700 Air India EXPRESS 22438185/4 Bneid Al-Gar 22531908 Sri Lanka Airlines 22424444 Egypt Air 22421578 Shaab 22518752 Swiss Air 22421516 Saudia 22426306 Qibla 22459381 Middle East Airlines` 22423073 Lufthansa 22422493 Ayoun Al-Qibla 22451082 PIA 22421044 Bangladesh Airlines 22452977/8 Mirqab 22456536 Indian Airlines 22456700 Oman Air 22958787 Sharq 22465401 Turkish Airlines 22453820/1 Aeroflot 22404838/9 Salmiya 25746401

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

Arrival Flights on Wednesday 7/8/2019 MSR 610 Cairo 12:45 Departure Flights on Wednesday 7/8/2019 JZR 213 Jeddah 12:05 Airlines Flt Route Time CLX 7912 Luxembourg 12:45 Airlines Flt Route Time QTR 1075 Doha 12:10 FEG 441 Asyut 00:05 RJA 644 Amman 13:20 AIC 988 Hyderabad/Chennai 00:05 IGO 1756 CNN 12:30 IGO 1757 Kochi 00:10 KAC 774 Riyadh 13:35 JZR 713 Sohag 00:10 TBZ 6606 Mashhad 12:55 JZR 254 Amman 00:20 JZR 212 Jeddah 13:45 MSC 412 Asyut 00:15 IAW 158 Al Najaf 13:00 THY 772 Istanbul 00:20 SVA 9082 Jeddah 13:45 JZR 707 Luxor 00:20 RBG 554 Alexandria 13:10 KAC 102 London 00:50 RBG 213 Sohag 13:55 MSR 615 Cairo 00:30 JZR 123 Dubai 13:10 DLH 625 Dammam 00:50 KAC 672 Dubai 14:00 FDB 072 Dubai 00:30 JZR 115 Doha 13:25 JZR 722 Alexandria 01:00 UAE 877 Dubai 14:00 BBC 044 Dhaka 00:40 SAW 702 Damascus 13:30 JZR 734 Cairo 01:00 JZR 152 Mashhad 14:05 FEG 342 Sohag 01:05 KAC 521 Al Najaf 13:30 MSR 618 Alexandria 01:35 JZR 604 Baku 14:10 IGO 1758 Kochi 01:10 MSR 611 Cairo 13:45 UAE 853 Dubai 01:40 KNE 231 Riyadh 14:10 JZR 409 Delhi 01:10 THY 767 Istanbul 14:00 KLM 446 Bahrain 01:45 SVA 500 Jeddah 14:15 THY 773 Istanbul 01:50 UAE 872 Dubai 14:15 PGT 858 Istanbul 01:50 GFA 221 Bahrain 14:15 DLH 625 Frankfurt 01:50 RJA 645 Amman 14:15 THY 1464 Istanbul 01:50 FDB 059 Dubai 14:20 KAC 677 Dubai 01:50 CLX 7912 Hanoi 14:20 KKK 1268 Istanbul 01:55 QTR 1078 Doha 14:25 KAC 417 Manila 02:00 RBG 218 Asyut 14:35 JZR 262 Beirut 02:05 KAC 286 Dhaka 14:35 KAC 285 Dhaka 02:00 KNE 382 Taif 15:00 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 02:15 KAC 364 Colombo 14:35 KAC 363 Colombo 02:00 GFA 222 Bahrain 15:00 KAC 414 Bangkok 02:40 KAC 304 Mumbai 14:45 JZR 111 Doha 02:10 KAC 673 Dubai 15:00 QTR 1086 Doha 02:40 JZR 222 Riyadh 14:45 MSR 619 Alexandria 02:35 FDB 060 Dubai 15:05 THY 1404 AYT 02:45 KAC 562 Amman 14:50 THY 765 Istanbul 02:50 JZR 103 Bahrain 15:05 PGT 860 Istanbul 02:50 KAC 618 Doha 14:50 PGT 859 Istanbul 02:50 SVA 3503 Jeddah 15:15 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:50 KAC 540 Sharm el-Sheikh 14:50 KKK 1269 Istanbul 02:55 UAE 878 Dubai 15:30 KAC 156 Istanbul 02:55 KAC 788 Jeddah 14:55 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 03:05 QTR 1079 Doha 15:30 JZR 502 Lahore 02:55 KAC 512 Mashhad 14:55 KLM 446 Amsterdam 03:10 SVA 501 Jeddah 15:45 THY 768 Istanbul 02:55 KAC 118 New York 15:00 UAE 854 Dubai 03:30 JZR 125 Dubai 15:50 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 03:05 KNE 529 Jeddah 15:05 THY 769 Istanbul 03:50 KNE 530 Jeddah 15:55 OMA 643 Muscat 03:05 KAC 412 Bangkok 15:10 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:00 KAC 105 London 15:55 RJA 648 Amman 03:05 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 15:15 OMA 644 Muscat 04:05 JZR 405 Kochi 16:00 MSR 612 Cairo 03:15 OMA 645 Muscat 15:20 QTR 1087 Doha 04:15 KAC 563 Amman 16:00 KAC 418 Manila 03:20 KNE 539 Jeddah 15:35 MSR 613 Cairo 04:15 KAC 743 Dammam 16:05 QTR 1076 Doha 03:30 ABY 127 Sharjah 15:35 PGT 861 Istanbul 04:20 KAC 775 Riyadh 16:05 MEA 406 Jeddah 04:00 UAE 857 Dubai 15:45 JZR 1735 Cairo 04:40 ABY 128 Sharjah 16:15 OHY 352 Istanbul 04:00 KAC 546 Cairo 15:50 JZR 613 Tbilisi 04:45 ETD 304 Abu Dhabi 16:20 KAC 789 Jeddah 04:05 KNE 527 Jeddah 15:50 QTR 1077 Doha 05:00 OMA 646 Muscat 16:20 KAC 382 Delhi 04:05 SVA 504 Jeddah 16:00 OHY 351 Istanbul 05:00 KAC 785 Jeddah 16:20 ETH 3424 Bahrain 04:15 FEG 341 Sohag 16:00 MEA 407 Beirut 05:00 KAC 619 Doha 16:25 KAC 784 Jeddah 04:25 KAC 781 Jeddah 16:05 KAC 303 Mumbai 05:15 KNE 528 Taif 16:50 KAC 796 Madinah 04:25 JZR 732 Cairo 16:10 KAC 103 London 05:20 FEG 242 Alexandria 16:55 JZR 1738 Cairo 04:45 FDB 051 Dubai 16:10 ETH 3425 Addis Ababa 05:45 MSR 576 Sharm el-Sheikh 16:55 JZR 404 Hyderabad 04:50 MSR 575 Sharm el-Sheikh 16:10 THY 1465 Istanbul 06:00 SVA 505 Jeddah 17:00 DHX 170 Bahrain 05:05 KAC 502 Beirut 16:15 RBG 216 Sohag 06:15 KNE 540 Jeddah 17:05 THY 770 Istanbul 05:20 QTR 1072 Doha 16:15 THY 771 Istanbul 06:30 FDB 052 Dubai 17:10 JZR 402 Mumbai 05:25 KNE 547 Jeddah 16:20 GFA 212 Bahrain 06:50 JZR 725 Alexandria 17:10 KAC 344 Chennai 05:30 SAW 705 Damascus 17:00 RJA 649 Amman 07:00 KNE 548 Taif 17:20 RBG 215 Sohag 05:35 JZR 116 Doha 17:05 UAE 874 Dubai 07:10 QTR 1073 Doha 17:25 UAE 873 Dubai 05:40 KAC 522 Al Najaf 17:10 JZR 251 Amman 07:10 KAC 361 Colombo 17:35 KAC 552 Cairo 05:45 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:10 JZR 121 Dubai 07:15 KAC 155 Istanbul 17:35 JZR 112 Doha 05:50 OMS 225 Muscat 17:20 KAC 167 Paris 07:15 UAE 858 Dubai 17:40 BAW 157 London 06:10 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 RBG 550 Alexandria 07:30 KAC 283 Dhaka 17:40 KAC 284 Dhaka 06:15 KNE 531 Jeddah 17:35 JZR 113 Doha 07:30 KAC 503 Beirut 17:40 JZR 708 Luxor 06:15 JZR 214 Jeddah 17:35 BAW 156 London 08:00 KAC 343 Chennai 17:50 JZR 714 Sohag 06:20 JZR 124 Dubai 17:40 JZR 211 Jeddah 08:00 KAC 381 Delhi 17:55 KAC 678 Dubai 06:40 KAC 158 Istanbul 18:00 KAC 171 Frankfurt 08:00 SAW 706 Damascus 18:00 KAC 206 Islamabad 06:50 JZR 104 Bahrain 18:00 KAC 165 Rome 08:00 OMS 226 Muscat 18:00 RBG 559 Alexandria 06:50 KAC 192 Tbilisi 18:05 IGO 1752 Chennai 08:10 SVA 511 Riyadh 18:10 KAC 302 Mumbai 07:05 QTR 1080 Doha 18:10 JZR 151 Mashhad 08:15 KAC 615 Bahrain 18:10 IGO 1751 Chennai 07:10 JZR 302 Istanbul 18:20 JZR 603 Baku 08:30 JZR 721 Alexandria 18:15 KAC 358 Kochi 07:25 MSR 620 Cairo 18:30 FDB 054 Dubai 08:35 GFA 216 Bahrain 18:20 SVA 4307 Jeddah 07:35 UAE 875 Dubai 19:05 KAC 539 Sharm el-Sheikh 08:50 JZR 127 Dubai 18:20 FDB 053 Dubai 07:50 FDB 063 Dubai 19:05 KAC 501 Beirut 08:50 JZR 403 Hyderabad 18:25 KAC 354 Bengaluru 08:00 RJA 640 Amman 19:05 KAC 545 Cairo 08:50 JZR 733 Cairo 18:35 QTR 1084 Doha 08:00 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:05 KAC 561 Amman 08:55 KNE 532 Jeddah 19:05 KAC 332 Trivandrum 08:05 JZR 306 Istanbul 19:20 KAC 613 Bahrain 09:00 JZR 261 Beirut 19:10 SVA 4309 Jeddah 08:05 ABY 123 Sharjah 19:20 KNE 536 Taif 09:05 JZR 253 Amman 19:10 KNE 535 Jeddah 08:05 KAC 744 Dammam 19:25 KAC 117 New York 09:05 QTR 1081 Doha 19:20 KNE 537 Jeddah 08:05 KAC 776 Riyadh 19:45 KAC 511 Mashhad 09:05 MSR 621 Cairo 19:30 KAC 674 Dubai 19:45 KAC 384 Delhi 08:10 KAC 104 London 20:00 QTR 1085 Doha 09:10 FDB 064 Dubai 19:45 BBC 043D Dhaka 08:20 KAC 166 Rome 20:00 SVA 5307 Jeddah 09:15 GFA 218 Bahrain 19:50 UAE 855 Dubai 08:25 KNE 381 Taif 20:00 KAC 787 Jeddah 09:15 KAC 331 Trivandrum 19:55 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 08:50 OMA 647 Muscat 20:05 KAC 671 Dubai 09:15 ABY 124 Sharjah 20:00 OMA 641 Muscat 09:00 DLH 624 Frankfurt 20:10 KAC 157 Istanbul 09:20 RJA 641 Amman 20:05 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:00 MEA 402 Beirut 20:15 KAC 782 Jeddah 09:30 JZR 401 Mumbai 20:30 KNE 541 Jeddah 09:05 JZR 126 Dubai 20:20 KNE 538 Jeddah 09:35 KAC 351 Kochi 20:30 IRA 665 Shiraz 09:15 KAC 620 Doha 20:30 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:40 UAE 876 Dubai 20:35 QTR 1070 Doha 09:20 MSC 401 Alexandria 20:30 KAC 773 Riyadh 09:40 KAC 353 Bengaluru 20:40 IGO 1753 Ahmedabad 09:40 QTR 1088 Doha 20:40 JZR 731 Cairo 09:45 KNE 232 Riyadh 20:50 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 RBG 217 Asyut 20:55 SVA 5309 Jeddah 09:45 DLH 624 Dammam 20:55 JZR 410 Delhi 09:50 KAC 172 Frankfurt 21:00 UAE 856 Dubai 09:50 OMA 648 Muscat 21:05 SAW 703 Damascus 10:00 KLM 445 Amsterdam 21:00 ETD 302 Abu Dhabi 09:55 MEA 403 Beirut 21:15 IAW 157A Al Najaf 10:00 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:10 JZR 301 Istanbul 09:55 KAC 790 Jeddah 21:25 SYR 341 Damascus 10:00 UAE 859 Dubai 21:15 OMA 642 Muscat 10:00 KAC 301 Mumbai 21:25 KNE 545 Jeddah 10:05 ALK 229 Colombo 21:15 KAC 101 London 10:05 MSC 402 Alexandria 21:30 AXB 889 Mangalore/Bahrain 10:20 KAC 168 Paris 21:20 IRA 664 Shiraz 10:15 RBG 214 Sohag 21:35 JZR 614 Tbilisi 10:35 SVA 9084 Jeddah 21:20 BBC 044D Dhaka 10:15 DHX 171 Bahrain 21:50 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:45 THY 764 Istanbul 21:30 QTR 1071 Doha 10:30 QTR 1089 Doha 21:50 MEA 404 Beirut 10:55 KAC 616 Bahrain 21:40 KNE 542 Jeddah 10:35 KAC 205 Islamabad 21:55 KIS 6032 Mashhad 11:00 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:50 FDB 056 Dubai 10:40 KLM 445 Bahrain 22:10 QTR 1074 Doha 11:00 KAC 564 Amman 21:55 IGO 1754 Ahmedabad 10:40 ETD 308 Abu Dhabi 22:15 JZR 1736 Cairo 11:05 QTR 1082 Doha 22:05 KAC 617 Doha 10:40 ALK 230 Colombo 22:20 JZR 114 Doha 11:10 JAV 621 Amman 22:15 SYR 342 Damascus 11:00 THY 1413 Trabzon 22:25 IGO 1755 CNN 11:30 ETD 309 Abu Dhabi 22:15 IAW 158A Al Najaf 11:00 UAE 860 Dubai 22:35 JZR 122 Dubai 11:45 KAC 786 Jeddah 22:20 SAW 704 Damascus 11:00 KAC 383 Delhi 22:35 TBZ 6605 Mashhad 11:55 AIC 975 Chennai/Goa 22:25 AXB 890 Mangalore 11:20 JZR 407 Ahmedabad 22:40 IAW 157 Al Najaf 12:00 SVA 514 Riyadh 22:25 JZR 221 Riyadh 11:20 KAC 547 Alexandria 22:45 JZR 252 Amman 12:20 SVA 502 Jeddah 22:45 GFA 214 Bahrain 11:35 SVA 3505 Jeddah 22:50 KAC 614 Bahrain 12:30 JZR 128 Dubai 22:50 KNE 546 Jeddah 11:35 GFA 220 Bahrain 22:50 SAW 701 Damascus 12:30 MSC 411 Asyut 23:15 JZR 305 Istanbul 11:45 KAC 783 Jeddah 22:55 THY 766 Istanbul 12:30 MSR 614 Cairo 23:30 MEA 405 Beirut 11:55 KAC 411 Bangkok 23:00 RBG 553 Alexandria 12:30 FDB 071 Dubai 23:35 KAC 191 Tbilisi 11:55 KAC 551 Cairo 23:00 UAE 871 Dubai 12:45 JZR 726 Alexandria 23:55 KIS 6033 Mashhad 12:00 ETD 310 Abu Dhabi 23:05 24 Established 1961 News Wednesday, August 7, 2019 Racism, misogyny: US authorities probe motives of pair of gunmen

EL PASO: One was fueled by racist hatred of immi- motivated to do anything more than what’s necessary to grants and warned of a “Hispanic invasion”. The other’s get by. Working in general sucks, but i guess a career in motives are less clear but he apparently resented women Software Development suits me well. I spend about 8 and compiled a “hit list” of girls in high school. Police and hours every day on the computer so that counts towards the FBI were trying to piece together yesterday what technology experience I guess.” drove two young American men to commit unspeakable El Paso is about a nine-hour drive from the Dallas acts of carnage over the weekend. Patrick Crusius, a 21- area and Crusius appears to have deliberately selected year-old unemployed white man from the Dallas suburb the city because of its heavily Hispanic population. El of Allen, opened fire with a semi-automatic weapon at a Paso lies on the Rio Grande River which marks the US Walmart on Saturday in El Paso, Texas. border with Mexico, and has a population of 680,000, About 20 minutes before the rampage, which left 22 of which 83 percent are of Hispanic descent. people dead, he posted a four-page white supremacist The motivations of the other gunman, Connor Betts, “manifesto” on the online forum 8chan that railed against 24, are less clear but several former friends told US Hispanics. In the document titled “The Inconvenient media that he had a history of disturbing behavior, par- Truth,” Crusius wrote that the attack “is a response to the ticularly towards women. Also armed with a semi-auto- Hispanic invasion of Texas”. Crusius claimed he was matic weapon, Betts killed nine people including his sis- “defending” the US “from cultural and ethnic replacement ter, 22-year-old Megan Betts, in Dayton, Ohio, early brought on by an invasion” and made references to the Sunday morning. He was shot dead by police within a Christchurch shootings in New Zealand, where a white minute. Investigators have found no evidence so far to gunman killed 51 worshippers at two mosques in March. indicate that the shooting was motivated by racial hatred. El Paso police chief Greg Allen said Crusius has not “Just based on where we’re at now we are not seeing shown any remorse since his arrest and “appears to be in any indication of race being a motive,” Dayton police a state of shock and confusion”. According to court doc- chief Richard Biehl said. Betts was white and six of his uments, Crusius has been unemployed for the past five nine victims were black. months and living with his grandparents. In a statement, Mika Carpenter, 24, who has known Betts since she his grandparents said he had lived with them while was 13 years old, told The New York Times “he was kind EL PASO: A woman touches a cross yesterday at a makeshift memorial for victims outside a Walmart, near the attending classes at Collin County College but moved of hateful to women because they didn’t want to date scene of a mass shooting which left at least 22 people dead. — AFP out of their home about six weeks ago. him”. The Dayton Daily News reported that Betts had According to CNN, a Twitter account linked to been suspended from Bellbrook High School for drawing themes of sexual violence. Howell told the newspaper. “He would wear all black. I Crusius frequently shared tweets by President Donald up a “hit list” of girls. According to Buzzfeed News, Betts Demoy Howell, a friend of Betts, told the Dayton Daily remember sensing a dark energy around him. “I think Trump including one with Trump’s name spelled out with was a member of a “pornogrind” heavy metal band News that Betts was “always a bit of an oddball”. “He this is less of a hate crime and more of an ‘I hate every- guns. In a LinkedIn profile, Crusius wrote, “I’m not really called Menstrual Munchies which performed songs with had a dark sense of humor - jokes about people dying,” body’ crime,” Howell said. — AFP

tion on Sunday followed protracted talks that were repeat- plined into a democratic framework,” he added. army generals do not accede to his demands,” he added. Sudanese deal edly interrupted by violence including a deadly crackdown There are also questions about the implications of the Sunday’s deal signing also revealed fractures within the on a sit-in outside the army headquarters in Khartoum. The deal for the feared paramilitaries of the Rapid Support protest camp after several factions expressed reservations. deal is “a reflection of the balance of forces,” said Magdi Forces. The protest movement has largely blamed the RSF Sudan’s communist party said the declaration “solidifies the defuses threat of Al-Gizouli, analyst at the Rift Valley Institute. for a crackdown on a sit-in outside army headquarters in military’s dominance”. Rebel groups from the Sudanese Still, many are eyeing it with skepticism, given that it is Khartoum on June 3. At least 127 people were killed on Revolutionary Front said they cannot accept the declaration ‘slide into chaos’ “a compromise between contenders with often diametri- that day alone, according to doctors close to the protest because it throws up “obstacles to the implementation of a cally opposed interests,” he added. The accord’s imple- movement, who say the violence has cost more than 250 peace deal”. They also complained of being excluded from KHARTOUM: A hard-won deal between Sudan’s ruling mentation “is critically dependent on the goodwill” of the lives since December. the talks. Reeves said the rebels’ rejection is “extremely generals and protest leaders has averted a slide into chaos army and the protest alliance, Gizouli said. The declaration says the RSF will report to the armed ominous” and should be addressed to ensure peace in the or even civil war but many questions remain about its The declaration places Sudan’s spy agency, which was forces’ general command, while an existing law governing regions of Darfur, South Kordofan and Blue Nile. implementation, analysts say. Under the accord, signed last month renamed the General Intelligence Services, the force will regulate its relationship with the executive Otherwise the rebel leaders may be caught up in “a Sunday after mediation by the African Union and Ethiopia, under the sovereign council and the executive authorities. authority. Eric Reeves, a Sudan expert at Harvard game of blackmail” between the generals and protest a civilian-majority sovereign council will lead Sudan It does not, however, outline how the shared responsibility University, says it has always been the case that “there are leaders, said Gizouli. These strains within the Alliance for through a transitional period of three years. “The agree- would work, analysts noted. The agency, formerly known in effect two armies (including the RSF) under nominal Freedom and Change protest movement indicate difficul- ment is not the most ideal but it is better than no deal at as the National Intelligence and Security Service, was command of the army chief”. RSF paramilitaries have ties maintaining a unified front. The umbrella group has all,” said Khaled Al-Tijani, a Sudanese analyst and editor- used by Bashir as a tool to crush dissent, and also carried enjoyed a certain level of autonomy under their command- secured a parliamentary majority of 201 out of 300 seats, in-chief of the Elaf newspaper. “Sudan could have slid into out a sweeping crackdown on the anti-Bashir street er Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, widely known as Hemeti, “but there are no guarantees that it would remain intact,” chaos or maybe a civil war which makes this deal balanced protests. This is “an example of the formal compromises who is now the deputy head of the military council. said Tijani. And it remains to be seen whether each side and rational.” The country has been roiled by political tur- that were whisked through to avert coming to terms with Reeves says the powerful general has managed to will fulfill their part of the agreement. “Sudan has a record moil since mass protests erupted in December against vet- challenging issues,” said Gizouli. Especially “without ensure “that his forces remain intact” under the declara- of non-commitment to pacts,” Tijani said. “It is now a eran leader Omar Al-Bashir, and the generals who ousted authority over the budget of these forces and their com- tion. “Insofar as Hemeti retains control of his RSF in its question of to what extent this deal will go against that him months later. The signing of the constitutional declara- position it is not immediately clear how they can be disci- present form, he can threaten any number of actions if the practice.” — AFP

world’s most important cocaine markets and trafficking Medal of Distinguished Contribution to American Brazil inmate dead routes. Brazil has the world’s third-largest prison popu- Nobel laureate Letters. lation after the United States and China, with more than In 2012, Obama presented her with the Presidential 800,000 inmates. Medal of Freedom and in 2016 she received the after foiled escape... The death of Silva is an embarrassment for Rio’s Toni Morrison... PEN/Saul Bellow Award for Achievement in American prison authorities, which had initially cheered their Fiction. “She was a great woman and a great writer, Continued from Page 1 actions in preventing his unusual escape plan. Brazil’s Continued from Page 1 and I don’t know which I will miss more,” Robert jails have become a major headache for new tough-on- Gottlieb, Morrison’s longtime editor at Knopf pub- A video released by the state prisons administration crime President Jair Bolsonaro. Last week, at least 57 speeches and was often referred to as America’s lishers, said in a statement sent to AFP. department shows da Silva stripping off his elaborate people died after a prison riot broke out in the northern “conscience” for her poignant takes on race and Sonny Mehta, chairman of Knopf, said he could disguise in front of officials. Three days after his failed state of Para. More than 50 inmates died in similar cir- human rights, never afraid of commenting on the day’s “think of few writers in American letters who wrote escape, da Silva, a senior member of the Red Command, cumstances in May during prison riots in the northern weightiest political issues. Her family said she “passed with more humanity or with more love for language one of Brazil’s main crime groups, was found dead in his state of Amazonas. away peacefully” in a New York hospital on Monday than Toni”. “Her narratives and mesmerizing prose cell in a maximum security prison. Officials said he Prison gangs, originally formed to protect inmates night “surrounded by family and friends”. “Although have made an indelible mark on our culture. Her nov- appeared to have hanged himself with a bed sheet. An and advocate for better conditions, have come to wield her passing represents a tremendous loss, we are els command and demand our attention. They are investigation has been launched into his death. vast power that reaches far beyond prison walls. The grateful she had a long, well lived life,” they said in a canonical works, and more importantly, they are Experts estimate hundreds of prisoners are killed in gangs are linked to bank heists, drug trafficking and statement, describing her as “the consummate writer books that remain beloved by readers,” he said. Brazilian prisons every year, mostly in confrontations gun-running, with jailed kingpins running their empires who treasured the written word.” Morrison was born in Ohio on Feb 18, 1931. “The between rival gangs battling for control of one of the via smuggled cellphones. — Agencies Morrison won the Pulitzer Prize and the American Bluest Eye”, her first novel, was published in 1970 Book Award in 1988 for her 1987 novel “Beloved.” Set when she was almost 40 years old. She followed up after the American Civil War in the 1860s, the story with “Sula” in 1973, going on to publish another nine centered on a slave who escaped Kentucky to the novels, including the acclaimed “Song of Solomon” in of last year,” says Syed Zeeshan. “Last year I bought an ani- free state of Ohio. The book was later turned into a 1977 which won the National Book Critics Circle mal for 100,000 rupees (about $625), but I will have to pay High steaks: film starring Danny Glover and Oprah Winfrey. Award. Her writings touched many, including Obama 12,000 more rupees ($75) for a smaller one,” complains Morrison received numerous other accolades includ- who recalled reading “Song of Solomon” as a child another customer Mohammad Imran, a small business owner. ing the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1993. In 1996, “and not just trying to figure out how to write, but Cows go from... Despite the rise in prices, about 80,000 cows have she was honored with the National Book Foundation’s also how to be and how to think”. — AFP already been sold at a single market in northern Karachi, Continued from Page 1 according to administrator Zaki Abro. To distinguish their stock in the crowded market, sellers have in some cases agement in Lebanon.” Multi-confessional Lebanon has Double-digit inflation, a depreciating rupee, and a range have chosen names for their animals, including a recently Lebanese kick up been rocked by political crises in recent years, espe- of new taxes in Pakistan this year have translated into much sold bull called Trump, with the hope of attracting cus- cially since the 2011 outbreak of war in neighboring higher prices for animals this Eid. “(The farmers) are tomers. “He has similar grandeur and distinction like the US Syria. In 2015, a landfill closure caused trash to pile up demanding exorbitant prices for cattle, almost double to that president,” says Abro. — AFP stink over smell fix... in the streets, sparking protests against political lead- Continued from Page 1 ers, including under the cry “You Stink”. The demon- strations have since died down, but mistrust in the rul- Trump at the White House last month despite the threat Visitors to the tiny Mediterranean nation have been ing class - that includes former warlords during the Iran ‘favors’ talks of sanctions within two weeks. The US imposed its welcomed off flights by unpleasant odors drifting over 1975-1990 civil conflict - still runs high. sanctions against Zarif on Wednesday, targeting any the airport. In June, Lebanon’s environment ministry Menassa insists his offer to treat the smell is only with US, but... assets he has in America and squeezing his ability to said it had asked an expert to look into the matter and meant to be a temporary solution. Under his plan, a function as a globe-trotting diplomat. help neutralize the smells. Lebanese-French agronomy “biodegradable” solution would be sprayed onto the Separately yesterday, Iran unveiled three precision- engineer Aime Menassa determined causes of the surface or spread through mist into the air at three sites Continued from Page 1 guided missiles, with the defense minister saying they show stench to include household waste, “badly stabilized across the capital, he said. Transforming smelly gas into the country is ready to defend itself in the face of US compost”, and sewage. His report unleashed a wave of minerals, the solution would clean garbage trucks trav- “This caused Americans to be trapped. They “viciousness and conspiracies”. The new line-up of air-to- sarcasm online over a perceived outsider stating the elling in and out of two sorting stations, and lessen the thought Iran’s system is weakened,” he said. “They said, air missiles dubbed the “Yasin”, “Balaban” and a new series obvious. “Isn’t there a Lebanese who can smell it?” one stench from the composting site near Bourj Hammoud. ‘One more push. Iran has reached a stage where if we of the “Ghaem” were developed jointly by the ministry and person asked on Twitter. But “the idea is not to mist forever”, he said, of the give it another push, everything will be over’.” This Sa Iran, also known as Iran Electronics Industries. Beyond being unpleasant, the smells also present odor-tackling practice that needs to be maintained push by “warmongers” deceived Trump and led to his Defense Minister Brigadier-General Amir Hatami potential health hazards. This winter, researchers at the 24/7 to be effective. “The solution is selective rubbish decision to leave the JCPOA, he said. hailed their launch as “another significant achievement American University of Beirut measured the rate of collection... to avoid having to have to bury these huge Rouhani said in any talks the Americans should be of power and dignity for the Islamic Republic of Iran”. hydrogen sulphide, a smelly gas produced by landfills, volumes in the final landfill.” Experts say half of ready to negotiate fairly. “Peace for peace and oil for “It shows that despite the viciousness and conspiracies in the air in Bourj Hammoud. Michele Citton, a waste Lebanon’s waste is organic, and could be better com- oil,” he said. “You cannot say that you won’t allow our of the Great Satan America and its mercenaries, the and water expert at AUB, said the levels of the gas - posted if separated out from recyclables at the house- oil to be exported. Strait for strait. It cannot be that the defense ministry will not hesitate for a moment to which has been correlated with possible negative health hold level. Environment Minister Fady Jreissati, who Strait of Hormuz is free for you and the Strait of defend the Islamic republic and to expand security,” he effects - were higher than expected. came into office in January, says only eight percent of Gibraltar is not free for us.” Iran has also been locked in said, quoted by Fars news agency. A 2018 study in northern China found children liv- Lebanon’s rubbish is recycled. a high-seas standoff with US ally Britain since Royal The Yasin was a smart, guided missile with folding ing near a landfill were more likely to have deficient His plan for the next two years includes trying to Marines helped to seize a tanker carrying Iranian oil off wings that can be fired from a range of 50 km of its tar- immunity and impaired lung function, the latter encourage better rubbish sorting, and building a new the British overseas territory of Gibraltar on July 4. get from manned or unmanned aircraft, Fars reported. strongly related to hydrogen sulphide. But odor sup- composting plant near the airport by next spring, he Weeks later, its Revolutionary Guards impounded a The Balaban was guided by GPS and sensors, equipped pression is not a sustainable solution, Citton said. told July’s edition of economic magazine Le Commerce British-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz - the con- with folding wings and could be mounted under air- “What these smells are saying to the world and to the du Levant. He also said a “credible option” would be to duit for much of the world’s crude. Zarif has confirmed craft, while the Ghaem was a heat-seeking missile that community in Beirut is basically that there is a deep widen the Bourj Hammoud landfill - but that would reports he declined an offer from a US senator to meet could hit within 50 cm of a target. — AFP need to find alternative methods to solid waste man- mean destroying an adjacent fishing port. — AFP 25 Sports Wednesday, August 7, 2019 East and Central Asian boxers dominate boxing championship Second stage of Asian Schoolboy Championships 2019 begins today

By Abdellatif Sharaa 7 Uzbek Umidillo Abdurasulov defeated Indian Bind Rupesh. KUWAIT: The second stage of competition in the ASBC 8 Kazakh Anarbayev Bakhtiyar defeated Syrian Ammar Asian Schoolboy Championships 2019 Kuwait will start Rababa. today at Kuwait Sports Club, as the finals of all weight cat- egories will carried out tomorrow (Thursday). In the 49 kg weight category The first stage saw the exit of Kuwait national team 9 Kazakh Sultan Moldash defeated Kuwaiti Mohammed boxers from competition due to lack of experience except Alenezi. for Abdelaziz Al-Sarheed who qualified for the semifinals 10 Uzbek Lazizabek Tulkonov defeated Nepalese of the 67kg category and will meet Uzbek Kamidolev Sherpa chhiring Wangdi. Shakbouz. 11 Jordanian Zaid Nedal Bers defeated Tajik Yusuf Monday’s matches saw East and Central Asian boxers Fozilov. dominating most of the bouts, as Kuwait’s Shabab Al- 12 Indian Vinay Vishwakama defeated Iranian Falalhi Abdullah and Mishal Al-Enezi lost their bouts in the 43 kg, Sivar Hilad. while Bader Shabab lost his match in the 52 kg, then Rashed Abdallah followed him in the 58 kg category. In the 55 kg weight category Kuwait’s national team coach Jassim Buftain lauded the 13 Kazakh Zhassulan Abdolda defeated Kuwaiti Meshal level of Kuwait’s boxers, competing against the best of Alenezi. Asia, noting that the lack of experience did not help them 14 Indian Malik Preet defeated Tajik Nurlanbek in the final rounds. Ermatov. He demanded more attention to the boxers of the future 15 Iranian Alireza Baratalipour Farkhani defeated Syrian and to continue their support to represent Kuwait very Hatem Haidar. well. Buffain said the championship witnessed outstanding 16 Uzbek Jkahongir Narziev defeated Kyrgyz Vadim levels in various weight categories and expected the Baurin. Kazakh and Indian boxers to have the better chances to win the most gold medals. In the 61 kg weight category Iraq’s head of delegation Ali Jawad was impressed with 17 Uzbek Mirzob Nekboyef defeated Jordanian Jehad the technical level of the championship saying “I was sur- Abu Yahya. prised by the level of boxers and the development of those 18 Kyrgyz Bolel Samidin Uulu defeated Iranian Alireza young boxers have shown, which promises a good future Mousavi. for the game in Asia in general and Arabia in particular.” 19 Iraqi Ahmad Ali Qasim defeated UAE’s Mohamed Jawad thanked the organizing committee for providing Abdelaziz. all that is necessary for the delegations which made it pos- 20 Kazakh Viktor Litvinov defeated Indian Negi Sunil. sible to have the best matches possible. ASBC (Asian Schoolboy Boxing Championships) 2019 In the 33-35 kg weight category Kuwait third day competition results: 21 Turk Daniyar Rozmetov defeated Indian Harsh. 22 Uzbek Abdurasulov Khumyoyunmirzo defeated In 37 kg weight category: Kazakh Pavel Tokarev. In the 46 kg weight category 35 Tajik Shahbox Daddojonov defeated Kuwaiti Bader 1 India’s Aryan defeated Philippine’s Sorillo Joshua. 23 Filipino Malunoc Robert Jr defeated Iraqi Mustafawi 29 Filipino Lofranco Reymond defeated Jordanian Shebab. 2 Kazakh Damir Baipakov defeated Jordanian Awos Karrar Ayed. Omar Tayser. 36 Uzbek Dalerjon Bozorov defeated Indian Ashish. Mohammad. 24 Kyrgyz Bekzat Ergeshov defeated Jordanian Qais 30 Thai Poochanthuek Phisit defeated Tajik Amirkhon 3 Tajik Ruslan Gafurov defeated Kyrgyz Temirkhan Mohammad Eshish. Rustamov. In the 58 kg weight category Daniarov. 31 Uzbek Boburbek Bobojonov defeated Indian Nikhil. 37 Uzbek Abduaziz Aburakhmonov defeated Kazakh 4 Uzbek Mahmudov Hojakbar defeated Iraq Fadhli In the 40 kg weight category 32 Kazakh Darkhan Nurzhigit defeated Palestinian Aidos Matayev. Saleem Abbas. 25 Afghan Amin Mohammad Younus defeated UAE’s Mustafa Salem. 38 Kyrgyz Beksultan Kimsanov defeated Pakistani Jwad Mohamed Alzahmi. Ahmed. In the 43 kg weight category 26 Turk Alisher Orazbayev defeated Sri Lankan Gedara In the 52 kg weight category 39 Palestinian Zaid Shkokani defeated Kuwaiti Rashed 5 Afghan Shirzai Masiullah defeated Jorodanian Jarabat Ashan Shreemal. 33 UAE’s Khalid Alkurdi defeated Afghan Mohammadi Abdulla. Abdelhakeem. 27 Uzbek Farrukh Tulaganov defeated Syrian Shirzai. 40 Indian Yashwardhan Singh defeated Thai Phoemsap 6 Turkmenistan’s Dovlet Nurmuradov defeated Shabab Mohammad Ali Baddour. 34 Kyrgyz Amangeidi Maksutov defeated Thai Thapfa Thananchai Abdulla. 28 Kazakh Amir Seiikhan defeated Indian Neeru. Okkharathewa.

drive off Treinen to make it 6-2 in the seventh. Nicholas Yankees hit HR mark Castellanos hit his first homer since being acquired from Detroit last week, a solo shot in the bottom of the first. He then added an RBI double between Happ’s and Baez’s to down Orioles homers in the seventh.

BALTIMORE: Mike Ford hit a tiebreaking homer in the RED SOX 7, ROYALS 5 top of the eighth, and Mike Tauchman added a two-run Rick Porcello emerged from a personal slump by shot later in the inning as the New York Yankees set a pitching six quality innings as Boston held off visiting major league mark for road home runs en route to a 9-6 Kansas City to snap an eight-game losing streak. Sam victory over the Baltimore Orioles on Monday night. Ford Travis and Rafael Devers homered as Boston took the had just one career homer before this contest, and opener of a three-game series to end its longest skid Tauchman finished with two on the night. Tauchman’s first, since 2015. Porcello (10-8) gave up one run on four hits a solo shot in the sixth inning, was the Yankees’ 30th this and two walks, striking out five. Bubba Starling, Cheslor season at Camden Yards. That set a major league mark for Cuthbert and Meibrys Viloria homered for Kansas City, the most home runs by a visiting team at one ballpark in a which dropped its seventh straight as starter Mike season. The Yankees, winners of six in a row, made it 32 on Montgomery (1-5) gave up four runs (two earned) on the two eighth-inning homers. Baltimore has given up at seven hits and one walk while striking out seven in five least five homers in a game 15 times this season, a major innings. league record, per MLB.com. The Orioles also set a major league record by allowing multiple homers in 10 consecu- REDS 7, ANGELS 4 tive games. The Orioles also had a noteworthy perform- Luis Castillo struck out a career-best 13 batters to ance at the plate, as shortstop Jonathan Villar hit for the lead to a win over visiting Los Angeles in the opener of a cycle. He is the fifth player to hit for the cycle in Orioles two-game series. Castillo (11-4) gave up two runs on solo history, and the first since Felix Pie in 2009. homers by Luis Rengifo and Mike Trout, gave up three hits overall and walked one on a career-high 119 pitches PHILLIES 7, DIAMONDBACKS 3 over seven innings. Angels right-hander Taylor Cole, on Vince Velasquez pitched seven solid innings in his the other hand, struggled as an opener for the second longest outing of the season, Scott Kingery homered and straight time. Cole (1-3) surrendered five runs and five Philadelphia opened a three-game series in Phoenix with hits in the first inning, three days after he allowed four a win over Arizona. Velasquez (4-6) gave up two runs and runs and four hits while recording just one out in a 7-3 six hits, striking out three and walking two. His longest loss in Cleveland. outing of the season in 13 previous starts was six innings BALTIMORE: Mike Ford #74 of the New York Yankees hits a solo home run in the eighth inning during a baseball on April 14. Arizona got within 6-3 in the bottom of the game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore, Maryland. — AFP RANGERS 1, INDIANS 0 eighth on David Peralta’s RBI single. Eduardo Escobar fol- Mike Minor struck out seven over seven strong innings lowed with a single to bring the potential tying run to the as surging Texas shut out host Cleveland. Elvis Andrus climbed over .500 for the first time in three months by Morton (12-4) allowed two runs and seven hits while plate with one out, but Christian Walker struck out, and ripped a triple to lead off the fourth inning and then storming back to beat visiting Miami to complete a dou- striking out nine in seven innings. Bichette led off the pinch hitter Tim Locastro flied out to right. scored on Nomar Mazara’s sacrifice fly for the Rangers, bleheader sweep. The Mets have won four straight and game with a double and scored on Cavan Biggio’s single. who have won five in a row and will attempt to match a have gone a baseball-best 17-6 since the All-Star break to Bichette, who has hit in each of his first eight career major TWINS 5, BRAVES 3 season-high winning streak on Tuesday in the second improve to 57-56. They were a season-worst 11 games Miguel Sano hit a two-run, pinch-hit home run with league games to match a club record, also led off the contest of the three-game series. Minor (10-6) flustered under .500 on July 12. New York is one of three teams this two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning to give third inning with his third home run and his ninth extra- Cleveland for the second time this season. He allowed season, along with the Washington Nationals and San Minnesota a walk-off victory over Atlanta in Minneapolis. base hit. seven hits-all singles-while walking just one batter during Francisco Giants, to climb over .500 after being at least 10 Sano hit an 0-1 cutter by Braves’ reliever Chris Martin (0- his 112-pitch performance. The 31-year-old permitted one games below that mark. With the Mets down 4-2 in the 3) high off the batter’s eye in center field for his 19th home BREWERS 9, PIRATES 7 run on three hits over eight innings in a 4-2 victory ver- seventh, J.D. Davis hit a leadoff homer. Two outs later, run of the season, driving in Luis Arraez, who had kept the Christian Yelich homered twice and Mike Moustakas sus the Indians on June 20. Michael Conforto homered over the right field foul pole. inning alive with a two-out bloop single. It was the second went deep once as visiting Milwaukee broke a four-game Alonso barely missed a homer on a foul ball, but a few pinch-hit homer of Sano’s career and a major league-best losing streak with a win in Pittsburgh. The Brewers also WHITE SOX 7, TIGERS 4 pitches later, he hit a laser off the first row of seats in left 219th home run for the Twins. Max Kepler also homered got three RBIs from Trent Grisham and RBI singles from Tim Anderson had three hits and scored twice, All- field for his 35th home run. and Arraez went 2-for-4 with two RBIs and a run scored Eric Thames and Orlando Arcia in ringing up 13 hits. Star Lucas Giolito recorded his first victory in six starts, for Minnesota, which won its fourth straight and seventh Pablo Reyes hit a pinch-hit, two-run homer; Bryan and Chicago took down host Detroit, which has lost four METS 6, MARLINS 2 (GAME 1) out of eight games to increase its American League Reynolds added a solo shot; Kevin Newman hit a three- in a row. Giolito (12-5) gave up three runs on eight hits Central Division lead to four games over Cleveland, which Jacob deGrom tossed seven strong innings and helped run double and Starling Marte added an RBI triple for the and struck out eight in six innings. He walked two. James lost to Texas on Monday. Trevor May (5-3) picked up the his own cause with a two-run single to give New York a Pirates, who have lost three straight. Milwaukee starter McCann reached base three times, scored twice and win with two innings of scoreless relief. win in the first game of the doubleheader against Miami. Jordan Lyles (7-7), acquired from Pittsburgh eight days knocked in a run, while Matt Skole drove in two runs. DeGrom (7-7) gave up two runs on five hits and one walk previously, pitched five innings. He gave up three runs Detroit rookie starter Spencer Turnbull, just activated DODGERS 8, CARDINALS 0 while striking out eight as he completed seven innings for (one earned) and two hits, with one strikeout and two from the 10-day injured list, gave up two runs on two hits Rookie Tony Gonsolin pitched six shutout innings in his the fourth straight start and the fifth time in his last six walks. Josh Hader got the final four outs for his 25th save. in three innings. He struck out seven and walked three Dodger Stadium debut to get his first major league win as outings. He retired 15 of the final 16 batters he faced Pittsburgh’s Dario Agrazal (2-3), making his eighth big- while on a pitch count. Los Angeles shut out St. Louis. Cody Bellinger and Joc Monday. The Mets took a lead when Jeff McNeil home- league start, allowed five runs and eight hits in five Pederson hit home runs for the Dodgers, who won their red on the first pitch of the game off Robert Dugger (0- innings, with one strikeout and two walks. NATIONALS 4, GIANTS 0 third game in a row and improved to 44-15 at home. The 1), who was making his big-league debut. After Miami Right-hander Erick Fedde combined with three reliev- Cardinals suffered their third consecutive defeat. tied the game on consecutive pitches to begin the sec- CUBS 6, A’S 5 ers on a seven-hit shutout and Matt Adams cracked a Gonsolin, a right-hander making his third career major ond-Brian Anderson and Starlin Castro both doubled- Pinch hitter Ian Happ hit a tiebreaking home run to run-scoring double, giving Washington a victory in San league appearance and second start, allowed only two Amed Rosario gave the Mets the lead for good with a spark a four-run seventh inning and Javier Baez homered Francisco in the opener of a three-game series. Fedde (2- hits, walked one and struck out seven. Gonsolin (1-1) one-out homer in the third. twice as Chicago held on against visiting Oakland at 2), who had been winless since May 26, allowed just one opened with 4 2/3 hitless innings before St. Louis’ Kolten Wrigley Field. Happ snapped a 2-2 deadlock when he runner past first base in six innings. He gave up six hits, Wong doubled off the wall in right-center field. The only BLUE JAYS 2, RAYS 0 drove a full-count, two-seam fastball from Blake Treinen struck out two and did not walk a batter as the Nationals other hit Gonsolin allowed was a two-out single to Dexter Jacob Waguespack pitched six strong innings and Bo (6-4) over the right-center field bleachers at an estimated picked up their 10th shutout of the season. Washington Fowler in the sixth. Bichette homered again as visiting Toronto ended Tampa distance of 474 feet. Baez celebrated the fifth anniversary broke a scoreless tie against Giants starter Jeff Bay’s six-game winning streak. Waguespack (3-1) of his major league debut with a game-tying 454-foot Samardzija (8-9) on a two-out RBI single by Anthony METS 5, MARLINS 4 (GAME 2) allowed four hits and one walk while striking out four. homer into the left field bleachers off Oakland starter Rendon in the third inning, before giving the Nationals’ Pete Alonso capped a three-homer seventh inning with Derek Law, who got the final out of the eighth, pitched a Chris Bassitt in the sixth. The shortstop then hit a two-run pitchers some breathing room with a two-run fifth a solo shot to left field for red-hot New York, which perfect ninth for his second save. Rays starter Charlie shot into the basket in front of the left field bleachers against reliever Sam Coonrod. — Reuters 26

Sports Wednesday, August 7, 2019 Who’s crying now? Australian glee as cricketers rise from Ashes ‘Smith, rose above taunts with centuries in each innings’

SYDNEY: Australians basked in rediscovered pride in their cricket alchemy, turning base metals into gold”. The net cricketers yesterday after Steve Smith inspired a thumping effect of the abuse by England fans “was to knit the Ashes Test win over England, redeeming himself following Australians together” and bring out their best cricket, a ball-tampering scandal that left the team in disgrace. he wrote. Smith, pilloried and banned for a year over the infamous “Even as he received his player-of-the-match award, ‘Sandpaper-gate’ affair, rose above taunts of “We saw you Steve Smith had to speak above the songs of the last des- cry on the telly” with centuries in each innings before perates whose claim to fame was having seen him cry on England crumbled to a 251-run defeat in Birmingham. the telly. He wasn’t crying now.” News Corp. Australia’s “It’s a redemption story like no other, from Sandpaper- James Matthey said the vocal Edgbaston crowd “wasn’t gate to standing up to England, in England,” tweeted able to provide the spark needed to overcome an 7News Brisbane. “The Miracle of Birmingham”, trumpeted Australian team welcoming the ball-tampering trio back The Australian, as any lingering embarrassment from the into the fold”. tampering scandal more than 18 months ago evaporated. Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were Instead, attention turned to the “redemption” of Smith playing in their first Test together since receiving lengthy from a tearful press conference last year to his Test-defin- suspensions for their part in the sandpaper affair. ing innings which humbled England, just weeks after they The Australian called Smith’s performance “a were crowned ODI world champions. redemption tale” and said he “brings to a dressing room Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins took all 10 wickets as a belief in bright sides and silver linings, if not unicorns England’s second innings folded for 146, but it was the and rainbows... Has any previous Australian team, it is knocks of 144 and 142 by Smith that set up the victory and also worth asking, been so leveraged to the fortunes of renewed comparisons with the great Donald Bradman. a single player?” At the start of the Test the Australians were mocked as Former Australian captain Gregg Chappell, who had “cry-babies” and endured taunts of “cheats and losers”, his own scandal in the past with the infamous underarm but five days on they were winners, the Herald’s Malcolm bowling to New Zealand in 1981, said Smith couldn’t rest Knox noted. on his laurels. “He’s taken a huge stride towards that redemption,” ‘REDEMPTION TALE’ Chappell was quoted as saying. “The way forward for that Steve Smith Knox described the fidgety Smith’s centuries as “pure redemption is to keep making runs.” — AFP

cricket’s hottest properties after he hit a century on his Doping in cricket: Test debut last year, becoming India’s second-youngest centurion after Tendulkar. Shaw ban raises India’s government has repeatedly attempted to Saudi and Formula bring the BCCI into line with other sports by carrying out its drug testing through the national agency. “A let- questions for India ter has been sent through NADA to the BCCI to get One discussing F1 race their players tested through them like any other sports body in the country,” a source in the sports ministry NEW DELHI: India’s powerful cricket board is under told AFP last week. LONDON: Saudi Arabia and Formula One are dis- pressure to bring its anti-doping procedures into line with “Because NADA is the only approved agency for han- cussing the possibility of holding a race in the country, world standards after questions were raised over the ban dling dope offences. BCCI’s response on this matter is still and team bosses have been asked for an opinion, handed to teenage star Prithvi Shaw. awaited. The ministry is keen for the matter to be resolved sources said yesterday. The Times newspaper reported Shaw, the 19-year-old prodigy often compared to as soon as possible.” Last year, WADA urged the that Formula One and the 10 teams would seek reassur- Sachin Tendulkar, last week received an eight-month ban International Cricket Council to intervene in matter. NADA ance on issues including human rights, gender equality after the Board of Control for Cricket in India ruled he chief Navin Agarwal told AFP that bringing Indian cricket and media freedom before any race could happen. “inadvertently ingested a prohibited substance (terbu- on board remained a “work in progress”. Multiple informed sources confirmed to Reuters the taline), which can commonly be found in cough syrups”. substance of the report. They added, however, that Shaw’s ban was backdated to March 16, despite the fact DIET PILLS Formula One had discussions with many would-be hosts he was playing for the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier Doping cases are rare in cricket. One of the most around the world which ultimately came to nothing. League until May 8. He will be available again from prominent was in 2003, when Australia’s Shane Warne The Times suggested a Saudi race could become a November 16, just after the start of India’s international Prithvi Shaw received a year’s suspension for taking a banned diuretic, reality as soon as 2021, with the schedule already season. blaming dieting pills given to him by his mother. expected to stretch to a record 22 races in 2020. The BCCI insists on handling its doping analysis and In 2006, Pakistan’s Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif Formula One and the teams are discussing major sport- sanctions in-house, rebuffing pressure from India’s gov- escaped bans for testing positive for the steroid nan- ing and technical rule changes from 2021 and Ferrari ernment and the World Anti-Doping Agency to come ‘CASUAL APPROACH’ drolone after the Pakistan Cricket Board accepted they did boss Mattia Binotto said in Hungary at the weekend under the ambit of India’s WADA-accredited national anti- BCCI anti-doping manager Abhijit Salvi said the Indian not take the drug intentionally. One Indian cricketer, who that could see an expansion to 24 races. doping body. board doesn’t do its testing through the National Anti- wanted to remain anonymous, said young players shouldn’t A Formula One source said that was more to allow However, concern is growing about the arrangements, Doping Agency (NADA) because it is concerned about its be expected to monitor what is going into their bodies. flexibility, replacing the existing rule that states teams with many calling for more rigorous testing by an inde- standards. “If we would have been happy with NADA’s “Nowadays players stay with a team for nearly eight- must agree to expand the calendar beyond 21 races pendent body. “The Indian Board does not have a robust performance then BCCI would not have had an issue,” nine months in a year. They are young boys who hardly rather than being a target number. anti-doping set-up and cricketers are not regularly tested Salvi told AFP. know which medicine to consume. To blame them is not The Middle East already hosts two races, at Sakhir in during all national and age-group competitions,” The “I am sure you have read reports as well about NADA’s right,” he told AFP. However, sports medicine expert Bahrain and Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina, with lucrative Hindustan Times said, adding that Shaw was given the inefficiencies.” He also rebuffed suggestions of a proce- Saranjeet Singh, who has written a book on drug use in long-term contracts in place. Bahrain was the first in “lightest sentence possible”. dural lapse in the Shaw case, given his ban was backdated sport, said cricketers simply aren’t tested enough. 2004 but the race has proved controversial, with rights Last year, Indian all-rounder Yusuf Pathan also tested to a time when he was still playing. Salvi said Shaw had “It’s (Shaw) not a one-off case because cricket does not groups accusing the country’s rulers of using it to positive for terbutaline and received a backdated ban after probably been too “casual” by taking an over-the-counter have the level of testing that is required to check the use of ‘whitewash’ abuses and improve their image abroad. the BCCI accepted he took it “inadvertently”, offering the medicine, despite attending “at least three” classes on performance-enhancing drugs,” Singh told AFP. “There are Saudi Arabia has come under heightened interna- same explanation that the drug is often found in cough anti-doping organised by the BCCI. numerous drugs that help in staying alert, for a better tional criticism over its human rights record after jour- syrups. Terbutaline is a bronchodilator, expanding air pas- “He probably had a casual approach to it and that’s why mind, to improve cardiovascular activity and strength. So nalist Jamal Khashoggi was murdered and dismembered sages in the lungs. Such substances can raise oxygen lev- he tested positive,” Salvi told AFP. The BCCI is the world’s drugs are everywhere from chess to horse racing. “It’s time by Saudi operatives inside its Istanbul consulate last els in the blood, helping stamina, speed and recovery, The richest cricket body and generates about 70 percent of the BCCI falls under the NADA ambit to improve its credibility October. Hindustan Times said. sport’s global revenues. Shaw, meanwhile, is one of Indian in picking out drug cheats.” — AFP The kingdom lifted a ban on women driving only last year. Formula One published a commitment in 2015 to respect “internationally recognised human rights in its operations globally”. Should the talks with Saudi Arabia move up a level, the kingdom would likely be looking at James Anderson ruled Du Plessis confirmed a third regional slot. This year, Bahrain was the second round of the sea- out of second Ashes as S Africa Test captain son after Australia, while Abu Dhabi will be the final round in early December. Any Saudi race would likely need to be separated from the other two regional rivals Test with injury JOHANNESBURG: Faf du Plessis will captain South Africa to protect their investment and the uniqueness of the in the Test series against India in October but may not lead event. Formula One is broadcast live and free-to-air in LONDON: James Anderson has been ruled out of the the side in all formats, Corrie van Zyl, Cricket South Africa’s the Middle East and North Africa region under a five- second Ashes Test, with England uncertain when he will (CSA) new acting director of cricket said yesterday. year deal struck last March with MBC Group, founded be fit to return after injuring his right calf. England’s Van Zyl, who was appointed to the acting role following by Saudi businessman Waleed al-Ibrahim. record wicket-taker broke down after just four overs in the weekend purge of head coach Ottis Gibson and his The rights previously belonged to Qatar’s BeIN the series opener at Edgbaston and did not bowl again coaching staff, said he would chair a selection meeting “in media group, which blamed broadcast piracy of its pay as Australia romped to a 251-run victory. the next day-and-a-half” to discuss future strategy, which TV feed as a reason for not renewing. Saudi Arabia Scans have confirmed he has no chance of taking would include planning for the 2023 World Cup. already features on the all-electric Formula E calendar part in next week’s game at Lord’s, the second of the “Faf will be the captain of the Test team,” said Van Zyl. and hosted its first race last year on a street circuit at five-match series, with assessment taking place “on an “But we need to look forward and we will talk about the Ad Diriyah, near Riyadh. — Reuters ongoing basis”. Anderson’s absence is a huge blow for white-ball strategy to 2023.” South Africa will play three England, whose deflating defeat in Birmingham came Twenty20 internationals in India next month ahead of the just three weeks after they won the World Cup. Test series, their first in the new world Test championship, After pulling up injured on the first morning in which starts on October 2. McCullum calls Birmingham, Anderson, 37, was restricted to two batting At yesterday’s press conference, Thabang Moroe, the cameos at number 11. The veteran, who has taken 575 chief executive of CSA, said he hoped the appointments in Test wickets, had not played competitive cricket for a a new structure for the national team would be made time on career month leading into the match after injuring the same before England start a tour of South Africa in December. calf playing for Lancashire. On Sunday, CSA said a football-style team manager James Anderson would be appointed, who would take charge of all aspects TORONTO: Former New Zealand captain Brendon “The MRI confirmed that Anderson has suffered a calf injury,” said a statement from the England and of the national team, including the appointment of a McCullum announced on Monday he would retire from coaching staff, the captain or captains and medical and Wales Cricket Board yesterday. “As a result of the England captain Joe Root had no regrets about cricket at the end of the ongoing GT20 tournament in administrative personnel. injury, he will commence a rehabilitation programme including Anderson for the Edgbaston game, saying he Canada. One of the most hard-hitting batsmen of his gen- Moroe also suggested that policy would be directed working with the England and Lancashire medical had passed every medical test. “It’s one of those freak eration, the 37-year-old McCullum skippered New from the top. “We want to see a more pro-active style of teams. scenarios where he pulled up-because it’s the same calf, Zealand to the 2015 World Cup final, where they were play with the team taking calculated risks and backing “Anderson will miss the second Test match, which we’re not sure whether it’s a slightly different injury,” beaten by Australia. themselves,” said Moroe who added that racial “represen- starts at Lord’s on Wednesday August 14. He will be said Root. He also won plaudits for the aggressive yet sporting tivity targets” (quotas) would remain in place with a target reassessed on an ongoing basis.” Former England cap- “Jimmy in those conditions, if he bowls 15 overs, way in which he captained his country, before quitting average of six black players in a team over the course of a tain Michael Vaughan does not expect to see Anderson things could have been very different in the first innings international duty in 2016 after his 101st Test match. season. Moroe also confirmed a growing rift with the SA on duty again until the fourth Test at the earliest and in general. Root said picking Archer would not repre- McCullum has spent the past few years playing in T20 Cricketers’ Association (SACA), saying he wanted more warned his absence could have a big impact in both competitions across the globe, his final stint coming with sent a gamble if he gets through the required workload direct communication between CSA and the national team, dressing rooms. the Toronto Nationals. this week. effectively bypassing SACA. “My concern is you don’t underestimate the psycho- “It is with pride and satisfaction that I am today “With Jofra, we’re in a slightly different situation “There has been a bit of a disconnect between the logical effect of Jimmy Anderson has on the England announcing my retirement from all cricket following the where he’ll have played a lot of cricket in between and players and the organisation (CSA),” he said. “We want to team, but also the positive effect it sends through the conclusion of the GT20 in Canada,” McCullum wrote on we’ll have a clearer idea of where he’s at,” he said. streamline the system so decisions can be made almost Australia team,” he said. “For them to arrive next week social media. “As much as I am proud of what I’ve achieved “We’ll turn up to Lord’s and make sure in the next few instantaneously.” SACA chief executive Tony Irish is on and the week after to know they won’t be facing in my 20 year professional career - more than I could ever days we don’t make any shotgun decisions.” record as saying the relationship between CSA and the have dreamed of when I first entered the game - I have felt Jimmy... that is monstrous.” England’s defeat at Edgbaston means they face an players’ body was at an all-time low. SACA has conse- the drive to keep going harder to maintain in recent A debut for paceman Jofra Archer, one of the stars of uphill battle to wrestle the Ashes back from Australia, quently launched a high court application seeking a review months.” “I look back with pride over the way I’ve played England’s World Cup campaign, could lessen the blow who have not won a Test series in England since 2001. of a CSA decision to restructure domestic cricket, made the game and what I’ve achieved... I can leave the game but he must first prove his own fitness for the five-day The home side have a number of issues to address aside without any SACA consultation. Moroe acknowledged knowing I left no stone unturned,” he added. “It’s been one game. He was carrying a side strain throughout the from Anderson’s absence, needing to shore up their there were differences between CSA and SACA but said hell of a ride but I’ve always maintained that all good tournament and has been sent to play for Sussex 2nd XI batting and find a chink in the armour of Steve Smith, there was no breakdown and that SACA would soon be things must come to an end.” — AFP to get long spells with the red ball under his belt. who made two centuries in the match. — AFP invited to meet with the governing body. — AFP Established 1961 27 Sports Wednesday, August 7, 2019 Swiss charge German officials in 2006 World Cup fraud probe Charges of money-laundering were dismissed in July

LAUSANNE: Swiss prosecutors said yesterday they “The accusations made will prove to be completely had charged three former German Football Association unfounded,” he added. (DFB) officials, including ex-president Theo Zwanziger, Proceedings against Franz Beckenbauer, a football with fraud relating to the 2006 World Cup. legend in Germany, also implicated in the investigation, In a statement the attorney general’s office said the have been set apart because of the 1974 World Cup accused “are alleged to have fraudulently misled the winning captain’s ill health. members of a supervisory body of the DFB organising The attorney general’s statement said that committee for the 2006 World Cup in Germany” in Beckenbauer “is unable for health reasons to partici- April 2005 about the true purpose of a payment of pate or to be questioned in the main hearing in the around 6.7 million euros. Federal Criminal Court (FCC).” Hors Schmidt, former secretary of the German foot- The German weekly Der Spiegel said recently that ball federation, has also been charged with fraud-along Beckenbauer’s health had significantly deteriorated with the Swiss Urs Linsi, secretary general of FIFA since April and the stress of a court hearing could from June 1999 to June 2007. endanger his life Wolfgang Niersbach, who was a member of the The announcement of charges comes at the end of 2006 bid committee and vice-president of the an investigation which opened in November 2015 into organising committee, has been charged with com- a payment of 6.7 million euros made in 2005 by the (COMBO) This combination of pictures created yesterday shows (from L clockwise) Wolfgang Niersbach, then plicity in fraud. DFB to Robert Louis-Dreyfus, former head of Adidas, President of the German Football Federation (DFB), as he gives a statement to announce his resignation (November Charges of money-laundering were dismissed in a partner of the DFB. 9, 2015 in Frankfurt am Main), ex-FIFA executive member Theo Zwanziger (February 2, 2016 at the district court in July. All four have denied the claims. “This whole Swiss Der Spiegel broke the story in late October 2015 Duesseldorf), then Chairman of the FIFA Ticketing Sub-Committee Horst Rudolf Schmidt (January 27, 2010 in campaign is wretched, malicious and will completely when it claimed that Germany used a secret fund of 10 Johannesburg) and then FIFA Secretary General Urs Linsi (June 13, 2005 in Frankfurt am Main). — AFP fail, because I have nothing to reproach myself for,” million Swiss francs (6.7 million euros at the time) to Zwanziger told AFP subsidiary SID. buy votes in the bid to stage the 2006 World Cup. “These incompetent investigators are banging their “This sum was used to fund various payments made tax fraud” in the case. with German tax law. heads against a brick wall, and the wall will always win. via a Swiss law firm to a Qatari company belonging to But the procedure was abandoned five months later, The association nonetheless said that it would The whole thing has long been a judiciary scandal and Mohammed Bin Hammam,” the statement said. for lack of evidence. However, the prosecution have appear as a plaintiff in the Swiss proceedings against there has been no truly reproachable behaviour on the At the time, Bin Hammam was a member of the FIFA since appealed the decision. Zwanziger, Schmidt, Linsi and Niersbach. part of the accused.” Executive Committee and the FIFA Finance In a statement yesterday, the DFB said that the “If the DFB has suffered asset damage as a result of Niersbach said the accused only found out through Committee. abandonment of proceedings in Germany last the actions of the accused then it is legally obliged to the media that they had been charged and described In May 2018, Zwanziger was charged along with October had confirmed its conviction that the 6.7 verify and exercise its right to compensation,” the the investigation as ‘unspeakable.’ other former German football officials for “aggravated million euro payment had been made in accordance statement said. — AFP

last season was ‘where do you go after Wayne Rooney Peerless Man winning the Premier League with 100 points’? The driven Guardiola emphatically holds talks with City hunt answered that by winning the domestic treble for the first time in English football Derby over Premier League history. City could switch their focus to win- ning the Champions League for the first English return hat-trick time, but the manager might point to their LONDON: Manchester City have quiet- narrow quarter-final defeat by eventual ly gone about their business in the close- runners-up Tottenham as evidence his LONDON: Wayne Rooney could be on his team are not that far away from way to Championship side Derby after own- season in the knowledge they do not need radical surgery after amassing 198 European glory. er Mel Morris confirmed yesterday that the Guardiola, whose side beat Liverpool club were attempting to finalise a move for Premier League points in the last two campaigns. on penalties in Sunday’s Community the former England captain. Shield, the season’s traditional curtain- The 33-year-old has been linked with a Champions City, who have dropped only 30 points over that period of sus- raiser, is expecting Jurgen Klopp’s team player-coach role at Pride Park, where his to be his main rivals again. former England teammate Frank Lampard tained domestic dominance, were pushed all the way by a hungry Liverpool last “There are two real contenders, was given his first opportunity in manage- Liverpool and us, to win the Premier ment last year. season but held them off to win by a sin- gle point in a thrilling climax. League. (Manchester) United with He is under contract at MLS side DC (Harry) Maguire and the other players United until the end of the 2021 season but WHAT TO EXPECT they bought, Arsenal, Chelsea and reports suggest his wife Coleen is homesick Tottenham can be there,” he said. and has returned to Britain with their chil- Basically, more of the same-it is diffi- dren. Reports of Derby’s interest in the for- cult to see any side other than Liverpool preventing City from becoming the first NEW FACES mer Manchester United star emerged shortly What do you buy the man who has before the side, under new boss Phillip Cocu, team to win a third straight Premier League title since Manchester United everything? opened their Championship campaign with a DERBY: DC United midfielder and former England captain Wayne Rooney (R) and Derby The answer is a new defensive mid- 2-1 victory at Huddersfield on Monday. County’s Dutch manager Phillip Cocu shake hands during a press conference at Pride Park from 2006/07 to 2008/09. There are few weaknesses in City’s fielder who can give the club another “It’s literally only been a couple of days in Stadium in Derby yesterday. — AFP option alongside veteran Fernandinho, the offing,” Derby owner Mel Morris told balanced squad, which combines title- winning nous with an enviable depth of who is 34. Talksport. “The starting point was that we Spanish international Rodri said the understood he (Rooney) was keen to return he had had a major impact. “He’s changed thought about anything beyond that.” talent. The most significant departure everything, he’s changed the culture of the Rooney has made no secret of his desire from the Etihad is that of Belgian defend- chance to learn from Guardiola was a to the UK and we decided to see if we could vital factor in his decision to make a club- do something off the back of that. club,” Birnbaum told the Daily Telegraph. to move into coaching following contempo- er Vincent Kompany, who has moved to “The work ethic he puts in during practice ries including Ryan Giggs, John Terry, Steven Anderlecht after 11 years of sterling serv- record move to City from Atletico. “It’s never done until it’s done and obvi- “For me it’s a great opportunity,” he ously we are very focused and keen to get and you guys see it in the games. We have Gerrard and Phil Neville. “Coaching is some- ice, taking with him his valuable leader- this sort of confidence or swag going into thing which I have thought about for a long ship skills. said. “It’s a great team with great players this over the line.” Premier League side in every area of the pitch. I think Pep is Burnley and second-tier West Brom have games because of him.” Rooney gave short time,” Rooney said. Defensive midfielder Rodri, 23, has shrift to questions about his future last week. “I’m in the process now of going through joined from Atletico Madrid for a club- the greatest coach in the world and that’s also reportedly declared an interest in what made me come.” Rooney, who is the record goalscorer for “Is that what was in the media? That my my badges. It would be a shame for me to record fee and Pep Guardiola will have a wife has got her own way?” he told AFP. finish playing and just walk away from the virtual new signing in Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri’s composed style on the ball at England and United. the base of the midfield has earned com- Rooney has engineered an upturn in DC “Those reports are a bit far-fetched. I’m con- game. “I have a desire to go into manage- who spent so much of the last campaign centrating on playing for DC United and try- ment and hopefully the right opportunity injured. parisons with Barcelona and Spain mid- United’s fortunes since he arrived from fielder Sergio Busquets. — AFP Everton and teammate Steve Birnbaum said ing to get them into the playoffs. I haven’t will come up.” — AFP The question asked at the beginning of

and then he plays very well and he co- Anfield cause. Neymar rumors operates with the team you can see what Liverpool not sated by Euro glory “This year is not the end of Liverpool he means to us.” FC,” said Klopp. “Next year there will be The Brazilian suffered another injury- another transfer window. This team is really lingers as PSG plagued season, missing PSG’s embar- as title pain provides fresh fuel good and we have invested a lot in it. Now rassing Champions League defeat by we have to work with that.” aim to shatter Manchester United, as well as Brazil’s LONDON: Fuelled by the angst of narrow- knock treble winners City off their perch. Crucially, Klopp is hoping for full seasons triumphant Copa America campaign. ly failing to win their first English title since The battle lines were jokingly drawn from England internationals Alex Oxlade- The 27-year-old has also been 1990, Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool’s when Guardiola called Klopp to congratu- Chamberlain, Adam Lallana and Joe Gomez glass ceiling embroiled in widely publicised rape alle- Champions League triumph is already late him in the immediate aftermath of the after the injury-plagued trio made it gations, vehemently denied, which were ancient history as they prepare to lock Champions League victory. through pre-season intact. eventually dismissed by Brazilian police horns with Manchester City. “We promised each other that we will PARIS: Interminable transfer rumours for lack of evidence. Amid Neymar’s AFP Sport looks at how Liverpool are kick each other’s butts again next season. KEY MAN surrounding Neymar continue to swirl tumult Mbappe, who took the 2018 shaping up ahead of the title race, which We will go for everything and see what we Scoring the crucial penalty that put unabated as the new Ligue 1 season World Cup by storm, tormented Ligue 1 starts with their Premier League opener get,” Klopp said. Liverpool on course for their sixth kicks off this weekend with defending defences to the tune of 33 goals to against Norwich on Friday: And Sunday’s Community Shield penalty European Cup would be enough to bestow champions Paris Saint-Germain launch- emerge as the club’s true poster boy. shootout defeat against City-which saw hero status on most players, but for ing their assault for a seventh title in Mbappe moved to quell any doubts WHAT TO EXPECT Liverpool hit back in the second half after Mohamed Salah his ice-cool strike in last eight attempts. over his own plans, having caused alarm Liverpool were so relentless in their pur- being outplayed in the first-showed the duel season’s Champions League final against Thomas Tuchel’s side began their when he spoke of playing “elsewhere” at suit of Manchester City last season that for supremacy will be just as closely fought Tottenham only kept his critics at bay. campaign by lifting the Champions the French league awards ceremony in their 97-point tally would have won them this season. The 27-year-old Egyptian finished as the Trophy in Shenzhen, China, gaining a May. “I think it wasn’t the right place (to the Premier League title in every season Premier League’s joint top-scorer last sea- modicum of revenge with a 2-1 victory say that),” the 20-year-old said while in apart from the past two. NEW FACES son, yet still endured accusations of selfish- over Rennes, the team that shocked PSG China. “I’d like to say sorry to the play- Jurgen Klopp’s side were beaten just Having splashed out more than £230 mil- ness from some Liverpool fans who feel he in last season’s French Cup final. ers who were there, because I spoiled once in the league all season, but that loss- lion ($280 million) in the previous three puts he is too willing to shoot when a pass As Neymar served the last of a three- the party.” against City at the Etihad Stadium in transfer windows, Jurgen Klopp has opted to a teammate would be the better option. match ban, incurred after a spat with a Last season’s title race quickly turned January-proved costly in the final analysis to steer clear of any more blockbuster Battling the perception he endured a fan following April’s shootout loss, into a cakewalk for PSG, but after a as the champions pipped Liverpool on the moves during the close season. sophomore slump at Anfield, Salah some- Kylian Mbappe pleaded with the domestic treble in 2017/18 under Unai last day. Sepp van den Berg, a 17-year-old Dutch times looked a frustrated figure without the Brazilian to stay during their trip to the Emery, his successor fell short in both Liverpool were unbowed by that painful defender signed from Zwolle, and Harvey beaming smile that was the hallmark of his Far East. domestic cups. setback and just weeks later they beat Elliott, Fulham’s 16-year-old midfield prodi- first season on Merseyside. “Everyone loves him and I love him so Despite that disappointment the brief Tottenham 2-0 in the Champions League gy, have been added as Klopp focused on But his 22 goals and eight assists in the much,” Mbappe said of Neymar, the for Tuchel a year on remains unchanged final to finish their season with a flourish. keeping his current squad intact. Premier League last season, coming on the world’s most expensive player who has with PSG desperately craving success in While European success has always been Liverpool have handed out new, back of his incredible debut year for the been linked with a return to his former Europe, after another calamitous exit. “It in Liverpool’s DNA, Klopp and his players improved contracts to several of their stars, Reds-when he netted 44 times in all compe- club Barcelona. “I don’t want him to hurts a lot, it hurts still that we did not are desperate to end their club’s title while persuading Virgil van Dijk and titions-underlined his development into a leave the team, obviously. I want him to go through,” midfielder Julian Draxler drought and that means finding a way to Mohamed Salah to remain committed to the genuine superstar. — AFP stay. When you think about his situation told AFP, five months on. — AFP Established 1961 Sport

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2019

East and Central Asian boxers James Anderson ruled out of Swiss charge German officials 25dominate boxing championship 26 second Ashes Test with injury 27 in 2006 World Cup fraud probe

SYDNEY: Australian Olympic hurdles champion Sally Pearson poses for pictures in front of the Harbour Bridge after a press conference in Sydney yesterday. Pearson announced her shock retirement, less than 12 months from the Tokyo games, revealing that she had been battling persistent injury problems and could no longer cope. — AFP Hurdler Pearson retires over injuries

Pearson won gold at 2011, 2017 world championships and 2010, 2014 Commonwealth Games

SYDNEY: Australia’s reigning world-champion hur- able to continue at the level that I expect of myself, Seven Sunrise television programme Tuesday that She was forced to pull out of the Commonwealth dler Sally Pearson announced her surprise retirement and also what the country expects of me when I go she had suffered numerous unannounced leg injuries Games in Gold Coast, her home city, last year due to yesterday, as persistent injuries sank her dream of to the Olympics.” Despite the injury setbacks, while preparing for the Doha worlds. the Achilles issue. regaining the Olympic title in Tokyo next year. Pearson’s announcement was unexpected after she “When you count six injuries this year that no In April, she withdrew from her first competitive Pearson, 32, the Olympic gold-medallist in 2012 reaffirmed a month ago that she was on track to one knows about and another whole year to go of event in more than a year at the Australian champi- and a two-time world champion over 100 metres return to competition at the Doha world champi- training to the Olympics, to try and win gold, I have onships, saying her body was “overheating”. hurdles, said after years of injuries her body “is just onships in September. major doubts my body will make it,” she said. “I Australian Olympic Committee CEO Matt Carroll not up to it”. “After 16 years of being on the In addition to her Olympic win in London, don’t know if I want to put myself through that hailed Pearson as a fierce competitor and one of the Australian team, it’s time to hang up the spikes,” Pearson’s storied career included golds at the 2011 again.” country’s all-time great athletes. Pearson told a press conference in Sydney. and 2017 world championships and the 2010 and “2018 was horrible with my Achilles tendon, and not “She did not accept compromises or settle for Recounting a litany of injuries which have plagued 2014 Commonwealth Games being able to run at my home town Commonwealth half-measures,” he said. “Ultimately, those qualities her since she won gold at the London Olympics in She is the reigning Olympic and world champi- Games. That was devastating. I don’t think it is fair to also drove her to a decision to retire. 2012, Pearson said the problems were “just ongoing onship record-holder in the 100m event, and a for- do that to myself and my body, as well.” “While we are enormously disappointed that and ongoing”. “Every time I want to go fast, the body mer IAAF Female Athlete of the Year. Such injuries had been a constant for Pearson, Sally will not be going to Tokyo 2020, we doesn’t want to. So, I don’t think I could take any who suffered a broken wrist from a race fall that understand when an athlete honestly assesses more injuries,” she said. ‘2018 WAS HORRIBLE’ derailed her 2015 world titles campaign, then a ham- the future and makes that difficult decision to “I have huge doubts for the next year for me to be Pearson revealed in an interview with Australia’s string problem hit her 2016 Rio Olympics hopes. call time.” — AFP

While Kontaveit readies herself for a Japan, fourth-seeded Wimbledon champion Kontaveit downs second round match against either Venus Simona Halep and eighth-seeded Serena Williams or Carla Suarez Navarro-who Williams. Sharapova, open play on Centre Court today- German 12th seed Angelique Kerber was Sharapova will set her sights on next week’s unable to make to the second round, how- tournament in Cincinnati, where she has ever, the three-time Grand Slam champion Kerber falls received a wild card just as she did in beaten 0-6, 6-2, 6-4 by Russian Daria Toronto. Kasatkina. “I don’t think this is the time to take a Two former champions made it safely in Toronto break,” she said. The 32-year-old has into the second round, Caroline Wozniacki slipped to 82nd in the world rankings after and Belinda Bencic both posting straight- MONTREAL: Anett Kontaveit spoiled another season marred by injury. She had sets wins. Denmark’s Wozniacki, seeded Maria Sharapova’s return from injury missed more than four months in the wake 15th, shook off an early break of service, Monday, rallying to beat the five-time of right shoulder surgery when she rallying from 2-4 down in the opening set to Grand Slam champion 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 at the returned for the grass court season this win in 90 minutes. WTA tournament in Toronto. Sharapova, year. She was forced out of Wimbledon by The Dane, who lifted the WTA’s competing for the first time since retiring a left forearm injury. Canadian Premier-level title in 2010 when from her first-round match at Wimbledon, Sharapova said Monday’s physical battle the tournament was in Montreal, hasn’t appeared to be on course for just a fourth showed she’d made progress since always thrived in the years in which match win since January when she went up Wimbledon. Toronto hosted, although she did make it a set and an early break on the 16th seed “I put a lot of work in to get to this to the final in 2017. from Estonia. stage, so I think to finish off this match is “I’m just happy to be here and win Having forced the third set, Kontaveit good,” she said. “Definitely not the result I another match here and get a good start,” gave herself a chance to serve for the match would have liked, but overall feeling pretty Wozniacki said. “We’ll see how it goes. with a break of serve in an epic ninth game. good about it. Switzerland’s Bencic, seeded 11th, advanced Sharapova hung on through nine deuces “I’m still building the confidence and my with ease, dispatching Russian qualifier before Kontaveit converted her third break form and that’s something that’s just going Anastasia Potapova 6-2, 6-1. chance in a game that lasted more than 15 to come with time and with match play,” Despite the lopsided scoreline, Bencic minutes. she added. “Unfortunately, I just haven’t needed four match points to close it out. “I was just trying to take it point by had that yet, so will just hopefully try to Bencic won the second WTA title of her point and not think about the score that build on it.” career in Toronto in 2015, beating four of much. It worked in the end,” said Kontaveit, The top eight seeds in the key US Open the top-six players in the world, including who converted her first match point in the tuneup receive first round byes-a group led Serena Williams. But she hasn’t played in TORONTO: Anett Kontaveit of Estonia celebrates victory over Maria Sharapova of Russia following following game when Sharapova sent a by world number one Ash Barty of Australia Toronto since as her precocious WTA rise a first round match on Day 3 of the Rogers Cup at Aviva Centre 19 in Toronto, Canada. — AFP service return long. which also includes No. 2 Naomi Osaka of was stalled by a string of injuries. — AFP