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Wednesday 5 February 2014 5 Rabial II 1435 - Volume 18 Number 5966 Price: QR2

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www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 4455 7741 | Advertising: 4455 7837 / 4455 7780 Call for action PM meets AWI president OPINION GCC and the repercussions against villa of Arab Spring n Sunday, the Foreign Ministry of the UAE Osummoned the ambas- sador of Qatar over remarks partitioning made by Dr Yusuf Al Qaradawi CMC wants utility services stopped in his Friday DOHA: Expatriate families without approval from the munici- sermon in living in partitioned villas and pality concerned, it said. Doha on apartments could be in for trou- The CMC noted that partition- January ble as the Central Municipal ing was also against Law Number 25. Al Council (CMC) has urged the 7 of 1989, which regulates the Qaradawi Khalid Al Sayed civic ministry to take urgent architecture and specifications of The Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, yesterday met had said EDITOR-IN-CHIEF measures to stop the practice. buildings. Jack Lang, president of the Paris-based Arab World Institute. They discussed cooperation between the two that “the The representative body has “Conduct a study (survey) of countries. UAE stands against any said families living in pigeonhole such villas and apartments and Islamic rule, and imprisons residential units in partitioned vil- come out with a draft decision to its sympathizers”. Later, H E las and even in partitioned flats ban portioning,” said the CMC in Dr Khalid Al Attiyah, Qatar’s are putting themselves at risk and its recommendations. Foreign Minister, said in an putting undue pressure on utilities It asked the ministry to coordi- interview on Qatar TV that and services. nate with public utility Kahramaa Pension authority snubs CMC Yusuf Al Qaradawi’s words do The services committee of the and ensure that water and elec- not reflect the foreign policy CMC has drafted a set of recom- tricity supply to residential units DOHA: Qatar’s pension author- only regarding laws concerning agency. There has been a show- of the State of Qatar, and its mendations, which the House in partitioned villas and apart- ity has delivered a snub to the the municipalities and agricul- down between the CMC and foreign policy is always artic- debated yesterday and forwarded ments are discontinued with Central Municipal Council ture,” said the letter. Ashghal as well in the past over ulated through official chan- to the Ministry of Municipality immediate effect. (CMC) after the latter urged it Signed by the Chairman of criticism of the latter by the nels, not through any other and Urban Planning for approval The CMC further urged the to improve the lot of retirees. the pension Authority, Turki former. platform. and action. ministry to deploy its inspectors The General Retirement and Mohamed Al Khater, the let- About the CMC’s recommen- Of course, this is not the The Ministry takes CMC’s rec- to conduct checks and identify Social Insurance Authority has ter was read out in the CMC dations to the pension Authority first time, and it will not be ommendations seriously and nor- partitioned villas and apartments. rebuffed the CMC, reminding yesterday. that it set up a social and cultural the last, when there are ten- mally approves them with minor The ministry must make sure it rather tersely that it had no Interestingly, though, after club for retirees, the Authority sions and bickering between alterations. that its inspectors are able to legal right to approach it with the initial rebuff the Authority said it was not part of its job pro- the Gulf states. Tensions occur The CMC has urged the min- enter homes to run such checks recommendations. replied, one by one and in detail, file, as per the law, to establish repeatedly in various fields istry to strictly enforce the law and catch violators, as government In a strongly worded reply, to the issues raised by the CMC such clubs. and they are not limited to regulating buildings (No. 4 of 1985) inspectors are not permitted by the pension Authority told the in its recommendations. About Qataris volunteering for differences of opinion among and the Rent Law (No. 4 of 2008), law to enter homes. CMC to mind its business and The tone of the Authority’s let- early retirement, the Authority leaders. If we go back a little, which stipulate that no alterations Not allowing illegal partitioning remember that the law regulating ter, however, led the vice-chair- said it was taking steps to pre- we will find that there were should be made in buildings and of villas and apartments is in pub- it allows it to make recommen- man of the public representative vent this phenomenon. “We are tensions because of a football apartments without permission lic interest, as not only is it against dations only regarding legisla- body, Jassem Al Malki, to pub- against people retiring when they match, a television series, a from municipal authorities. the law but it also puts people’s tion covering municipalities and licly say it wasn’t appropriate on are young.” song, a poem, or because of The CMC noted with concern safety at immense risk. agriculture. its (Authority’s) part to talk of The Authority said in its reply tweets in social networking that people took villas on rent, The community at large, say the “You have no right to raise CMC’s rights. to the CMC that it had made sites. These tensions affect partitioned them to create small CMC recommendations, should retirees’ issues with us. The law “They should have simply proposals to the authorities and even members of one house- residential units, and sublet them, be made aware of the dangers of doesn’t allow you that privilege.” replied to our recommendations,” if those proposals are approved, hold. In the past, members of which is against the law. partitioning villas and apartments “Article 8 of Law Number 20 of said Al Malki. retirees would get pension equiva- a particular tribe had moved Any residential unit, whether and subletting them to people to 1998, especially Paragraph three This isn’t the first time the lent to the salary they received at from their location to another a villa or an apartment, should live in. and clause 2, clearly stipulate that public representative body has the time of their retirement. place and tribe due to tensions not be allowed to be partitioned THE PENINSULA you can make recommendations been rebuffed by a government THE PENINSULA with their original tribe. Continued on page 8 Strong winds Fee for profession change in visas Three central markets to DOHA: The Ministry of are working in the petroleum H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad to cause fall Labour and Social Affairs will sector, as also those engaged in Al Thani, yesterday issued Law now charge a fee to change marketing petroleum products, Number 3 of 2014 in this regard. be set up outside Doha in mercury the profession of a worker in chemicals and petrochemi- The new legislation amends his employment contract and cals, will not be covered by the some provisions of the previous DOHA: A proposal to set up three central markets outside Doha DOHA: The Meteorology on his work visa and ID card. labour law. law (of 2004) and is applicable has been approved by the Ministry of Municipality and Urban Department has forecast strong And now the employees of Some provisions of the labour from the date of issue and is Planning. northwesterly winds leading to companies that are not a part law (Law Number 4 of 2004) to be published in the official The new markets will be located in Umm Salal Ali, Al Rayyan and Al a further dip in temperature of or partners of the govern- have been amended to make gazette, Qatar News Agency Wakra, it was disclosed at a regular session of the Central Municipal over the next three days. ment or Qatar Petroleum and the above changes. The Emir, reported. THE PENINSULA Council (CMC) yesterday. The Department has also The issue was discussed in a letter sent to the CMC by the Minister warned of high seas and low vis- of Municipality and Urban Planning, H E Sheikh Abdul Rahman bin ibility at times resulting from the Khalifa Al Thani, in response to its proposal to set up new central dusty winds. Scattered rains are markets outside Doha. also forecast over the weekend. Snow blankets Tehran The proposal has been approved after a detailed study, said the “High pressure over northern minister. Saudi Arabia will intensify and THE PENINSULA extend to the Gulf starting from today and generate northwest- erly winds at speeds from 15 to 25 knots, reaching up to 35 knots at places at times,” said a state- ment issued by the Department White House calls on Egypt yesterday. Visibility would be reduced due to dust and a rise in sea waves by to free Jazeera journalists 10-15 feet offshore is also expected. This condition could prevail until WASHINGTON: The White House yesterday called on Egypt to Friday morning. free three Al-Jazeera television journalists who have been held for The prevailing northwesterly more than a month, reportedly in harsh conditions. winds would bring in cold air President Barack Obama’s spokesman Jay Carney said the deten- from the northwest causing a dip tion of the journalists was “of deep concern” to the US administration. in temperature over the next few “The restrictions on freedom of expression in Egypt are a concern, days. The expected maximum tem- and that includes the targeting of Egyptian and foreign journalists and perature would be between 16-20 academics simply for expressing their views.” degrees Celsius, and the minimum “These figures, regardless of affiliation, should be protected and between 10-14 degrees Celsius. permitted to do their jobs freely in Egypt.” Temperature in Doha today Carney said that Washington had expressed its views to the Egyptian would hover between 17 degrees government and strongly urged it to drop the charges against the C and 23 degrees C and the lowest journalists and release them. temperature is expected at Abu Australian Peter Greste, the Canadian-Egyptian bureau chief for Samra from 15 degrees Celsius to Jazeera English in Cairo Mohamed Adel Fahmy and Egyptian producer 20 degrees Celsius. Iranian women walk during snowfall in Tehran yesterday. Baher Mohamed were arrested on December 29 in a Cairo hotel. THE PENINSULA AFP

WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 04 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME HMC Burns Unit shifted to Al Wakrah Hospital DOHA: Hamad Medical Wakrah Hospital meets this Corporation (HMC) has relo- strategic objective, and estab- cated its specialist Burns Unit lishes an improved facility that from the Rumailah Hospital allows clinicians and special- to a state-of-the-art facility at ists to deliver increasingly bet- Al Wakrah Hospital. ter care to patients,” said Dr Al The new unit started func- Ansari. tioning last Friday. Rumailah Hospital Medical HMC said yesterday that the Director Dr Abdulaziz Al move comes as part of its ongo- Darwish said that the move ing operational plans to trans- allowed them to free up extra form many of its key clinical capacity to accommodate addi- services to meet demands of tional long term beds and real- the rapidly growing population locate much-needed space and The Minister of Energy and Industry H E Dr Mohamed bin Saleh Al Sada (third left); the Minister of Information and Communications Technology H E Dr in the country. focus on expanding long term Hessa Sultan Al Jaber (fourth left); the Chairman of MEEZA and CEO of Investments at Qatar Foundation, Rashid Al Naimi (second left); the Secretary- The new Burns Unit will care services. General of International Telecommunication Union, Switzerland, Dr Hamadoun Toure (second right), and the CEO of MEEZA, Ghada El Rassi (right), at have additional beds and other A specialist team from the opening of the GCC Digital Security Forum at the St Regis Hotel in Doha yesterday. SALIM MATRAMKOT resources, including dedicated the Massachusetts General theatres, immediate access to Hospital (MGH) Sumner Intensive Care Units and spe- Redstone Burns Center in the cialist clinical services, as well United States is providing sup- as additional staff that can port to HMC during the tran- cater to more patients. sition of the Burns Unit. The Qatar to boost cyber security Al Wakrah Hospital Medical Medical Director for the MGH Director Dr Nassar Al Ansari Burns Division, Dr Shawn said the hospital aims to provide Fagan, headed the team. a world-class burns centre serv- The hospital also provides Citizens’ privacy will be protected, Dr Al Jaber tells GCC forum ice. “HMC’s aim is to provide a ample parking for patients and comprehensive Burns Unit in visitors. The Burns Unit can be DOHA: Qatar will step up Al Thani has taken prudent steps know that the Internet is funda- wide ranging use by the govern- keeping with the organisational contacted over telephone - 4011 efforts to enhance cyber secu- to strengthen cyber security mentally multinational. Threats ment, corporations and individu- goals of clinical transformation. 5284. rity but will also ensure individ- through cooperation with the gov- are cross-border. We will seek als,” he said. The Burns Unit moving to Al THE PENINSULA uals’ privacy is protected. ernment, private sector, academia partnership with the GCC and Dr Hamadoun Toure, “The issue of digital security and other countries. other countries that share our Secretary General, International is critical not just for our region, “Qatar’s leadership has stood views.” Telecommunication Union, but also for the entire globe,” up to challenges of cyber security Rashid Al Naimi, Chairman, Switzerland, said bridging the the Minister of Information and with a national-level committee MEEZA said digital security digital divide has been the utmost Extra show of Mickey’s Communication Technology H E fostering cooperation among the is not just an issue of technical concern in recent years. Dr Hessa Sultan Al Jaber told public and private sectors, coor- nature, it is rather the first line He said with almost two-thirds the GCC Digital Security Forum dinating a national level cyber of defence of the economy, soci- of the global population still Music fest on Feb 13 yesterday. security strategy, developing ety and national wealth against offline and a daunting gap of 60 “We will pursue cyber security national policies and regulations attempted incursions by crimi- percent in the Internet penetra- policies that enhance our security, and conducting information secu- nal elements that will always for tion between Africa and Europe, DOHA: Organisers of ‘Disney Live! presents Mickey’s Music but we will preserve our citizens’ rity assessments,” she said. various motives try to disrupt and there still remain challenges. Festival’ announced yesterday said they had added an extra per- right to privacy,” she added. “We now understand that harm the economy and the orderly Ghada El Rassi, Chief Executive formance due to popular demand. More than 500 delegates rep- effective cyber security is the functioning of organisations. Officer, MEEZA, Qatar, said the The additional show will be on February 13 at 3.30pm and tickets are resenting governments and com- result of improved technology, “With the growing digital econ- forum reflects MEEZA’s commit- on sale, said Ali Haidary, Founder and CEO of Sport & Entertainment panies from 15 countries are better defined processes, and a omy and innovation, our country ment to bring to Qatar and the Solutions, who are organising the show. attending the two-day forum workforce more educated about is now on a par with the best Gulf the most advanced informa- Thousands of Disney fans flocked to Virgin Megastores in Villaggio being held by MEEZA under the cyber threats and risks.” economies in terms of usage, voice tion and telecommunication and Mall and Landmark Mall as well as the online ticketing website, since Minister’s patronage. Urging the need for collabora- and data communication, smart security technology and make it tickets officially went on sale on January 10. According to Al Jaber, Qatar tion on cyber security, she said, devices, the Internet and the available to customers in a cost- “Since Disney On Ice in 2013 sold out in record time, the demand for under the leadership of the Emir “The scale of challenges requires quality and capacity of our ICT effective manner. shows of the same calibre has dramatically increased. It is no surprise H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad strong national leadership, but we infrastructure, systems and their THE PENINSULA that Disney fans want more. I am confident that tickets for the addi- tional show will sell out in no time,” said Nassim Goraieb, Marketing Manager, Virgin Megastore. Ticket prices are QR150, QR250, QR375 and QR1,000. THE PENINSULA Kahramaa invites entries for ‘conserving buildings’ contest DOHA: Qatar General Elec- residential sectors. Sports ven- lighting, plumbing fixtures, land- tricity and Water Corporation ues are also included this year. scape, motion sensors, and BMS. (Kahramaa) has invited entries Interested people can apply “Conserving buildings” are for its annual ‘conserving build- until February 28 via Kahramaa buildings that reduce electricity ing competition’. The contest is website km.qa by filling in a reg- and water consumption, carbon part of the national programme istration form. The buildings emissions, and provide better for conservation and energy will be evaluated based on the living for residents. Kahramaa efficiency — Tarsheed. specific parameters set by the launched the competition for the The competition launched team of qualified experts to test first time last year and the win- by Conservation and Energy efficient design of Mechanical ners were honoured at the first Efficiency Department, is open Electrical & Plumbing (MEP) anniversary of Tarsheed held in to all buildings from industrial, systems in all buildings which solidarity with the Earth Day. governmental, commercial, and in turn includes HVAC System, THE PENINSULA

WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 06 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME Airport recorded 9.93pc growth in passenger traffic

DOHA: Doha International Airport Day and New Year holidays seen the for our passenger, who are at the heart of with the recently announced commercial also contributed to a successful December (DIA) recorded an impressive year maximum rush. DIA has also witnessed everything we do at DIA, said Abdulaziz agreement between Qatar Airways and with almost 7.5 percent year-on-year with 23.27 million passenger traf- a 7.9 percent annual increase in aircraft Al-Mass, Senior Public Relations and IAG Cargo, an optimal level of service, growth. fic in 2013, a growth of 9.93 percent movements in 2013. Communications Manager, DIA. convenience and flexibility will be deliv- Despite operating over capacity compared to 21.16m passengers went The growth rate comes as Qatar 2014 is expected to see an increase ered to worldwide cargo customers. throughout the year, DIA management through it in 2012. gears up for the opening of Hamad in cargo traffic as DIA’s cargo facility The inbound mail to Qatar has has taken a range of measures to ensure The airport has also experienced a 4.7 International Airport. enhances its unique offering, with the increased by over 20 percent year-on- passenger comfort and has invested sig- percent growth in overall cargo traffic “DIA went to great measures to plan introduction of two new unique serv- year, but overall mail traffic has dropped nificantly in infrastructure improve- year-on-year. ahead and ensure high levels of coordina- ices, Q Pharma and Q Fresh, which will by 1.5 percent in comparison to 2012, due ments, including additional check-in DIA has seen a year-on-year growth tion with the respective authorities and optimise the transportation of time and to a decrease in outbound mail. gates, more aircraft parking bays, and during every month in 2013, which service providers in order to enrich our temperature sensitive goods, including December 2013 has recorded the sig- expanded terminal facilities to provide underlined an ever-growing importance passengers’ travel experience. The strong high-value pharmaceutical products and nificant passenger traffic growth of over passengers with a comfortable, safe and of Doha as an international hub. cooperation between parties enabled us to perishables. The growth in the cargo mar- 13 percent compared to the same month enjoyable travel experience. Summer vacations, Eid, Haj, National extend a seamless and hassle free process ket has fuelled massive expansion, and of the previous year. Aircraft movements THE PENINSULA Qatari artiste dies in Al Shahaniya fire

DOHA: A popular Qatari He then went to sleep in a porta- theatre and radio artiste who cabin there. Arab singers Hamdan, worked with Qatar Radio died This was not the first time in a fire that broke out at a he went to the farmhouse. He farmhouse in Al Shahaniya would usually have his dinner late on Monday night. with friends there and sleep Hilal Mohamed Hilal, 69, overnight. Karazon to wow fans (pictured) was buried at Abu The portacabin caught fire Hamour cemetery last evening and Hilal died due to suffoca- and his funeral was attended by tion from smoke. He was also a a large number of people. member of Qatar’s theatre group Performances at Wheels ‘n’ Heels Family Fun Day Hilal lived in Madinat Khalifa and performed in TV serials as (North). On Monday he went to well. DOHA: Arab singing sensa- the farmhouse and had dinner. THE PENINSULA tions Shama Hamdan and Diana Karazon will enthrall thousands of fans at the Wheels ‘n’ Heels Family Fun Day at Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) Park on Friday. They will join a host of celeb- rities from Qatar and across the Arab world for the seventh edi- tion of the annual event organised by Reach Out To Asia (Rota) and sponsored by Maersk Oil Qatar with strategic partner Qatar Cycling Federation (QCF). Music fans are expected to flock to the Wheels ‘n’ Heels Stage to enjoy the performance by UAE superstar Shama Hamdan, the first Emirati woman to make it to the finals of the hit reality Shama Hamdan and Diana Karazon show Arabs Got Talent. A performance by Jordanian Sports fans will also have photo Rota Executive Director Essa Al music sensation, television host opportunity and get autographs Mannai. “Friday promises to be and actress Diana Karazon, win- from sports icons, Mahmoud a really fantastic fun day and I ner of the first ever Super Star and Abdullah Bo Shri (Kuwait), encourage the families of Qatar television series, will also be one rally racer Nada Zeidan (Qatar), to come along and enjoy all the of the highlights of the event. and teenage swimming sensation excitement at Wheels ‘n’ Heels.” Children will also enjoy meet- Nada Mohamed Arakji (Qatar). The event will start at 2pm ing popular Baraem Children’s “I want to thank all the enter- and run until 10pm and includes Channel presenters Ahmed Al tainers, musicians and celebri- various activities held in differ- Mulla and Jihan Arsanious, mas- ties for reaching out to have ent zones. ters of the ceremony of the event. fun at Wheels ‘n’ Heels,” says THE PENINSULA Launch customer Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer, Akbar Al Baker (left), is welcomed by Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Fabrice Bregier (centre), and another official at the A350 hangar in Toulouse, France. QA CEO Al Baker visits Airbus HQ CNA-Q to host Terry Fox Run

DOHA: Qatar Airways Chief Airways are working closely and comfort to further boost our Executive Officer Akbar Al together to ensure a successful route expansion,” said Al Baker. Marathon of Hope on Tuesday Baker visited the home of entry-into-service of this all-new Al Baker took the opportu- Airbus in Toulouse, France to aircraft from Day One. nity to thank the Airbus staff, get a first-hand knowledge on During his site-tour, Al Baker on behalf of everyone at Qatar DOHA: The Four Seasons and Resorts Founder and no fundraising minimums with the world’s newest aircraft, unveiled Airbus’ newest flight test Airways, for their efforts in work- Hotel Doha, College of North CEO. Isadore Sharp has made all funds going to Terry Fox A350, before its delivery later aircraft MSN4, branded with a ing to fulfil the airline’s order for Atlantic Qatar (CNA-Q), a commitment to support the Foundation benefiting local can- this year. special ‘launch customer’ livery. 80 aircraft. Qatar Cancer Society and event since Terry Fox, a young cer research. Al Baker was welcomed by The aircraft will soon join the The Airbus A350 will be one the Canadian Embassy will Canadian man suffering from Funds will remain in Qatar Airbus Chief Operating Officer A350 flight test fleet for external of the world’s most fuel efficient organise the Terry Fox Run bone cancer, initiated it in 1980. as there are several research Fabrice Bregier and other noise and lightning tests, avionics airliners, offering state-of-the-art 2014 on Tuesday at the college Although, he had his left leg projects looking for the cure employees at the A350 hangar. development and certification and design and comfort. to spread cancer awareness. amputated, Terry was deter- for cancer. The visit precedes the first training for first customer pilots Qatar Airways has a robust Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Al mined to run across Canada to The event is catered by hotel flight of an A350 to Qatar today, and maintenance teams. range of Airbus aircraft in its Thani, Andre Dubois, Terry’s generate awareness and funds volunteers. Families can bring where it will be officially wel- “Qatar Airways is proud to be fleet. In addition to the 80 A350 it sister Judith Fox-Alder and the for cancer research. their children as there will be comed at the world’s newest glo- the launch customer for this new has on order, the airline has a cur- hotel’s Manager Shadi Suleman Sharp has made a pledge to fun activities. bal gateway, Hamad International aircraft, and we look forward to rent Airbus fleet comprising the will join the Marathon of Hope. support the run until the dis- Donations can be made Airport (HIA), by a select crowd soon taking delivery of the first A320, A300Freighter, A319LR, For the 10th year, the hotel ease is beaten. online to the Terry Fox Run of Qatar Airways staff and other of 80 A350s. A321, A330 and A340 families. is supporting the run with The hotel has followed via http://www.terryfox.org/ dignitaries, before it takes to the “At Qatar Airways, we are Qatar Airways is also a customer proceeds benefiting cancer through on its pledge to organise InternationalRun/Doha_Qatar. skies for an aerial display. eager to open a new chapter of of the A380, the world’s largest research. the annual run and works with html Qatar Airways will be the first efficient and comfortable air passenger aircraft, and expects The annual marathon aims Canadian Cancer Society to plan Participants are encouraged A350 XWB operator and is also travel and the A350 XWB will do to take delivery of its first A380 at raising funds and awareness the Marathon of Hope. to make contributions towards its biggest customer with 80 air- this for us. The aircraft will give this spring. about finding a cure for cancer. The run is a volunteer-led the fight against cancer. craft on order. Airbus and Qatar us that extra edge in economics THE PENINSULA The Four Seasons Hotels event, non-competitive, with THE PENINSULA

CNA-Q receives Continuing Professional Development accreditation from SCH DOHA: The College of North amazing organizations in Qatar Atlantic – Qatar (CNA-Q) was to meet the needs of the industry. recently awarded Continuing The role of CNA-Q is not only to Professional Development provide continuing professional accreditation by Qatar Council development training, but also to Dr Jamal Rashid Al Khanji, Acting CEO of QCHP, presenting the accreditation to a CNA-Q executive as other officials look on. of Health Practitioners (QCHP) help fill the skills gap that can at Supreme Council of Health occur when professionals have logical step. ensuring an optimum healthcare patient safety and is a provider of technician and respiratory ther- (SCH). been in industry for many years. “The school is committed to delivery system for Qatar,” she accreditation for CPD providers apy. They represent a majority The award, recognising CNA- It is important that we work providing practitioners with added. and programmes for healthcare of the allied health professions Q’s expertise in healthcare edu- together to provide programmes valid, accessible and meaningful The Accreditation Department practitioners. which will need CPD activities to cation, was presented during a to requalify them,” he said. continuous professional develop- is one of three pillar departments CNA-Q is a natural partner for maintain licensing. The School of ceremony at the college. CNA-Q health sciences gradu- ment opportunities that meet of the QCHP. It regulates and CPD training as its school pro- Health Sciences is the only school Dr Jamal Rashid Al Khanji, ates are recognised in the work- international standards,” she accredits medical education pro- vides training in 10 allied health in Qatar to have been awarded Acting CEO of QCHP, presented place for their knowledge base, said. grammes and health academic in programmes ranging from den- Canadian accreditation in medi- CNA-Q officials with the honour, competence and professional- “We are committed to working Qatar. tal assistance and emergency cal radiography technology, phar- the second organisation in Qatar ism. According to Irene O’Brien, with SCH to carry standards of It is playing a vital role in medical science to environmental macy technician and respiratory recognised by it. Dean, School of Health Sciences, programme excellence forward implementing international best health and safety, medical radi- therapy programmes. “It is important that we utilise this partnership is the next in support of medical licensing, practices in healthcare system for ography technology, pharmacy THE PENINSULA WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 07

Emir, PM send Banks find it tough to cables to Sri Lanka DOHA: The Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani convince Qataris to sent a cable of congratulations to the President of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa, on his appear for interviews country’s Independence Day. The Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh DOHA: A dozen banks that percent and actively coordinates Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa participated in a fortnight- with the National Manpower Al Thani sent a similar cable. long career fair for Qataris Development Department of the that ended recently are run- Ministry of Labour and Social Emir appoints two ning after a large number of Welfare. “We are keen to raise job applicants with little luck this percentage,” said Al Kaabi. ambassadors in convincing them to turn up The Department of the labour for interviews. ministry is responsible for push- From left: Dr Jamal Rashid Al Khanji, Director of Healthcare Quality and Patient Safety Department at SCH, DOHA: The Emir H H Some of the applicants have ing citizens into both, public and Professor Knuth, Medical Director of NCCCR and Chairman of Cancer Services at HMC, Dr Abdullah Al Ansari, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al even been given job offers but private jobs. Al Kaabi said there Chairman of Surgery and Deputy Chief of Medical, Academic and Research for Surgical Services at HMC, and Dr Thani yesterday issued the many of them have asked for are occasions when a citizen who Salahddin Gehani, Senior Consultant for the Breast Cancer Surgery Programme at HMC, at a press conference Emiri decision No. 9 of 2014 time to think and reply. has applied for a job and is not yesterday. ABDUL BASIT appointing Saud Abdullah Human resource officials of found suitable is given repeated Zaid Al Mahmoud as Qatar’s these banks are tired of calling opportunities for interviews Ambassador Extraordinary and many of the job applicants as with the aim that he is eventu- Plenipotentiary to Russia. some are taking the phone and ally absorbed. He also issued the Emiri deci- dilly-dallying while others aren’t A senior official of Doha Bank, sion No. 10 of 2014 appointing just responding. Mariam Akbar, said her bank SCH launches National Sheikh Abdullah bin Thamir bin Urged to come for job inter- received some 70 job applications Mohamed Al Thani as Qatar’s views, a number of applicants from Qataris, and nine of them Ambassador Extraordinary and asked for rescheduling and have been approved. Seventeen Plenipotentiary to Saudi Arabia. even after they were given fresh of them have been selected for dates, they failed to turn up. scholarship. Mariam pointed out Cancer Programme Taxation deal with The participating banks that some applicants are given received about 700 job appli- tests. “When we made job offers Hong Kong ratified cations from Qataris, some of to some of the applicants, they ‘Champions’ begin campaign to create awareness whom had applied for jobs in asked us to allow them time to DOHA: The Emir H H Sheikh several banks, local Arabic daily think.” DOHA: The Supreme Council risk factors and seeking medical Hospital, said “The World Health Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Al Watan reported yesterday. The Ministry of Labour’s of Health (SCH) launched the help promptly when needed,” Organisation (WHO) reported yesterday issued Decree No. 7 Some banks received 50 appli- National Manpower National Cancer Programme added Dr Al Ansari. that breast cancer is the most of 2014 ratifying an agreement cations each, including many Development Department has (NCP) coinciding with World Stressing the importance of common cancer in Qatar and both between Qatar and China’s from women, on average but asked banks to submit reports Cancer Day yesterday. early detection, the programme its incidence rate and mortality Administrative Region of Hong were able to get in touch with detailing the outcome of the Based on the five-year National works with its partners to ensure rate are significantly higher than Kong on avoidance of double barely 10 of those candidates. fortnight-long Career festival. Cancer Strategy launched in 2011, that patients are provided with any other type of cancer in Qatar taxation and prevention of fis- The head of human resource “How do we respond? The the programme will launch regu- quick and efficient referrals on a for women.” cal evasion in relation to income at Ahli Bank, Saad Al Kaabi, problem is that many of the lar awareness campaigns to edu- 48-hour referral pathway. “With an estimate that every tax and its attached protocol, said his bank received 50 job applicants are not responding to cate society about the disease. The “Our set goal for 2016 is to one in eight women will be diag- signed in Hong Kong on May 13 applications from Qataris dur- our phone calls. Some applicants Programme Team will continue to ensure that every suspected can- nosed with breast cancer, the last year. ing the Career festival. were given time for interview oversee the implementation of the cer patient is seen in a secondary National Cancer Programme felt “Many of the applicants are and they asked for rescheduling. strategy. care setting by a specialist within it imperative that we respond Real estate deals not responding. They are just We obliged them and gave them One of the awareness campaigns a 48 hour time-frame,” he said. by launching the Breast Cancer not taking our phone,” said Al fresh dates but even then they launched under the programme is A dedicated website for shar- Awareness Campaign.” worth QR672m Kaabi. He said Ahli Bank has failed to turn up,” said Mariam. the “Cancer Champions’ Outreach ing information on cancer related This campaign will be done a job nationalization ratio of 22 THE PENINSULA Programme” that brings together subjects was also launched. through spreading the facts DOHA: Real estate sales worth key figures in the Qatari Society “This is work in progress. On about breast cancer and how to be QR672,325,097 were regis- to bring the message of cancer the website we will develop new breast aware to increase aware- tered at the Ministry of Justice prevention and early detection sections on the various types of ness about signs and symptoms of between January 26 and 30. ICBF to hold free medical to the community. cancer. breast cancer. The Real Estate Registration “The purpose of enlisting the “We also will give updates on Almost three years after its Department at the ministry help of these champions is to the events and activities of the implementation, the National said properties included open camp for workers on Friday raise awareness, encourage early National Cancer Programme,” Cancer Strategy has achieved plots, villas, annexes, houses, cancer detection and reassure explained Prof Alexander impressive progress, said Dr residential buildings and pal- DOHA: The Indian camp from the labour camps. families and friends that there Knuth, Medical Director of the Jamal Rashid Al Khanji, Director aces in Umm Salal, Al Khor, Al Community Benevolent Forum However on the spot registra- is hope and life after cancer for National Center for Cancer Care Healthcare Quality and Patient Shamal, Doha, Al Rayyan, Al (ICBF), in association with the tion will also be available at the our cancer patients,” said Dr and Research and Chairman of Safety Department at SCH. Daayen and Al Wakrah. Indian Doctors Club (IDC) camp deserving patients, ICBF Abdullah Al Ansari, Chairman Cancer Services, HMC. “Qatar has become the first Qatar and Aster Medical said yesterday. of Surgery and Deputy Chief of Prof Knuth underscored the GCC member state of WHO/ Cinderella ballet Centre is organizing its 15th A team of 12 doctors (GP and Medical, Academic and Research importance of education as a International Agency for Research medical Camp for low-income specialists), paramedical staff for Surgical Services at HMC, at a pillar of the strategy promoting in Cancer (IARC) and the 23rd at Katara today workers on Friday. and pharmacists from IDC and press conference yesterday. awareness and dispelling myths state internationally. Qatar can- The event will take place at Aster will support the camp. The The Cancer Champions would of cancer under the “Myth cer data has been accepted for the DOHA: The ballet version of Galfar Al Misnad site premises event is also supported by the engage in year-long activities cre- Refutation” campaign. first time into CI5 (WHO Cancer Cinderella, the beautiful girl in Dukhan Industrial Area from Supreme Council of Health and ating a movement to go beyond “We wish to create an ongoing in 5 Continents),” he said. persecuted by her step-mother 7.30am to 12.30pm. Hamad Medical Corporation. the campaign. dialogue, taking the right meas- Rapid triage of suspected can- and two step-sisters, will come The camp will provide free A team around 30 volunteers “Additionally, we have plans ures to give people the right tools cer patients, cancer patients alive today at Drama Theatre in check up for hypertension and from Telagu Kala Samithi and to develop a Religious Outreach to take control of their health. access to specialist nursing, pro- Katara Cultural Village. diabetes to around 350 to 450 Indian Society of Dukhan will Programme in hope of collaborat- This will contribute to cancer vision of best possible treatment Composed by Sergey Prokofiev lowly paid expatriate work- also be working in the camp. ing with major religious figures prevention, early detection of to patients based on Cancer Peer and written by Nikolay Volkov, ers, residing at Zekreet village, Any deserving person living in Qatar to disseminate our mes- disease and better treatment Review and National Cancer the ballet is based on the classic Dukhan Industrial Area and in Zekreet, Umm-Bab areas can sages further, encouraging soci- outcomes.” Standards and Guidelines are fairy tale of Charles Perrault. Umm Bab. register through telephone num- ety to take care of God’s gift of Dr Salahddin Gehani, general among the other improvements Two shows will be held daily ICBF has started registra- bers 55335679, 5547782, 55854791 a healthy body and to protect it surgery and senior breast cancer after the launch of the strategy. from 4pm to 5pm and 7pm to 8pm tion of workers for the medical & 55206095. THE PENINSULA from any harm by avoiding health consultant at Hamad General THE PENINSULA at Building No. 16. QNA Key technology trends to drive Middle East innovations in 2014: Cisco study

DOHA: Key technology trends fundamentally change how we now developing new Internet such as context aware com- interact with our devices. In the architectures to replace the cur- puting, machine-to-machine future, devices will learn about rent IP-based Internet. Named connections, browser-based you, your day, where you are and Data Networking (NDN) has video and collaboration, video where you’re going. “Context is the most potential to disrupt, mega trends, building the a disruption because it com- and would allow information next Internet with new archi- pletely redefines the users’ to be communicated by names tectures, security and mobile experience and the way an IT rather than host addresses. device management are set system is built,” said Ghoul. This represents a radical depar- to redefine businesses and By 2022, Cisco predicts that ture from the way the Internet life across the Middle East person-to-machine and person- works today. in 2014, said Cisco in its first to-person combined connections Early stage software-defined Technology Radar study. will constitute 55 per cent of the networking (SDN) models, Based on intelligence gath- total IoE value at stake, whereas meanwhile, have attempted ered by over 70 global tech- machine-to-machine connec- to address the challenge by nology “scouts”, Cisco’s study tions make up the remaining focusing on network virtualisa- focuses on trends independent 45 per cent. tion and overlay scenarios, but of current product roadmaps or One of the major benefits without true integration across business unit priorities. of imminent new Internet physical and virtual dimensions, Driving all of these is the supporting a larger number of architectures is the power of they have so far been handi- Internet of Everything (IoE), applications on all connected browser-based video and collab- capped by lack of transparency the interconnections of peo- devices,” said Tarek Ghoul (pic- oration, where a new common and visibility. ple, processes, data, and things, tured), General Manager, Cisco standard can enhance employee Unsurprisingly, security will be which Cisco believes repre- Gulf, Levant and Pakistan. productivity by integrating critical for business growth and sents a $19 trillion opportunity, The Middle East is already audio-visual conferences, text adaption to the new Internet, globally,over the next decade well-poised to reap the benefits notepads, and whiteboards into with companies likely to ramp ($14.4trn in the private sector of this shift, with the region’s a real-time Web-based multi- up the deployment of scalable, and $4.6trn in the public sec- IT spend projected to grow 7.3 media space. cloud-based mobile device man- tor). By 2020, Cisco reports that percent from 2013 to $32bn in Video Mega Trends will simi- agement solutions to protect the growth of connected ‘things’ 2014, according to IT research larly transform digital imaging, personal and corporate informa- will reach 212 billion. firm the IDC. with ultra HD video enhanc- tion. Gartner Inc predicts half “IT organisations across the Cisco also reports that the ing the viewing experience on of global companies will enact Middle East need to prepare Middle East and Africa is set televisions, smartphones, aug- Bring Your Own Device pro- for the Internet of Everything to post the world’s strongest mented reality glasses, tablets, grammes by 2017. “This year and (IoE), and what we are now mobile data traffic growth for and camera-equipped devices. beyond will bring a hugely influ- seeing is the emergence of an at 77 percent CAGR to 2017. In order to cope with the ential and constructive technol- Application Economy where the One of the key findings of explosion of connections, the ogy explosion throughout the focus will no longer be simply the report is the potential of Cisco Technology Radar con- Middle East region,” Ghoul said. on the hardware, but also on context aware computing to cludes that technology labs are THE PENINSULA WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 08 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME Ooredoo to stop paper QTA unveils new licensing bills for customers as part of ‘Go Green’ plan rules for tourism dhows Standard and control procedures to take effect on April 1 DOHA: As part of its ‘Go Green’ easy-to-access format. The solution initiative, Ooredoo said yesterday means that businesses can see areas DOHA: Qatar Tourism and tour operators will actually current Tourist Dhow Operators it would not send paper bills to that are driving communication Authority (QTA) in collabora- book or recommend Dhows to to make the necessary changes, business customers who use its costs, and take decisions to man- tion with the Public Transport their clients, due to safety and if any, to ensure the new stand- electronic billing options. age them. Affairs Department (PTAD) insurance concerns. ards are met. The ‘Go Green’ strategy is in sup- Bill Express provides PDF and the General Directorate QTA believes that once These Dhows are such an port of Qatar National Vision 2030, and Excel versions of bills, which of Civil Defence (GDCD), these standards are in place important part of Qatar herit- which prioritises the protection of remove the need for paper bills. announced yesterday new the Tourist Dhows will ben- age, and so symbolic to tourism, the environment. eBilling service offers easy-to-read procedures for the licensing efit greatly as the international that we really wish to see this Business customers who use Bill PDF versions of monthly bills, ena- of dhows used for tourism industry begins to recommend sector developed and promoted. Express or eBilling services have bling comparison of new bills with purposes. them. “QTA continues to work also received a paper version of bills, previous ones and offering Excel To take effect starting April “The new licensing pro- towards maintaining and pro- along with bill formats and analyses. versions. 1, the new regulations identify cedures and regulations are moting Qatar’s tourist attrac- With the new guidelines in place, Ooredoo will provide paper-based licensing authorities, set clear intended to organize the opera- tions and developing the business customers using these billing for business customers who standards and controls on the tions of tourist boats of all kinds tourism sector in the State in services will no longer receive a need them for specific and agreed licensing of all Tourist Dhows and set standards for the marine order to play an important role paper bill, as the company works reasons. Business customers who operating in Qatari waters. tourism sector in general,” in the growth and diversification to save resources, reduce waste and wish to sign up for Bill Express, The focus of the regulations said Mohammed Al Ansari, of the national economy,” added protect the environment. eBilling services, or to continue to is to enhance and specify pas- (pictured) Acting Director of Al Ansari. Ooredoo’s research shows that receive a paper bill can contact their senger safety, and to ensure with UNWTO, in line with Tourism Department at QTA. Through the new Dhow Bill Express and eBilling serv- account manager, or call 8008000. that visitors and tourists are QTA’s mission to plan, regu- “Agreed upon by the key licensing measures and stand- ices offer customers a more reli- Since stopping paper bills in treated according to expected late, develop and promote a stakeholders in Qatar, the reg- ards, QTA, in partnership with able, convenient, and easier-to-use December 2011, the company has international standards, and high quality, sustainable tour- ulations lay out a set of impor- the Ministry of Economy and way to store, access and manage reduced paper consumption by a that they have adequate protec- ism economy in Qatar.. tant and essential policies that Commerce and the Ministry of information. huge margin, saving thousands of tion in cases of emergency and QTA is also working to stimu- will guide business active in the Interior, and PTAD intend to The Bill Express service offers trees and making Qatar a greener accidents. late the Marine tourism sector industry and ensure the safety stimulate investment in marine customers access to their commu- place to live in. While these new regulations and to make the most of Qatar’s of workers, visitors, and tourists tourism by providing clear nications costs online in a real-time, THE PENINSULA focus specifically on Dhows, coastline, beaches and marine according to the highest inter- standards, sound guidelines and they form a part of the overall experiences. national standards.” regular updates to the industry Regulatory system being devel- While popular locally, only QTA emphasized that there as new developments take place. Ooredoo’s Wataniya oped by QTA in partnership very few international travel shall be a period provided to THE PENINSULA Kuwait network ‘one Global tourism forum on February 23

DOHA: World experts in Qatar (SUQ) in conjunc- Australia; Gurjit Singh, in Qatar’s appeal to visitors. of the best in region’ tourism, hospitality, major tion with Al Rayyan Tourism Chief Development Officer To implement and realise the event coordination and sus- Investment Company (ARTIC) of Aldar Properties; Sumathi national tourism strategy 2030, DOHA: Ooredoo’s Wataniya modernized Wataniya network per- tainable development will and the European Tourism Ramanathan, Regional General we have developed a strong Kuwait network is one of the best formance is on a very good level com- attend Qatar’s international Futures Institute (ETFI), the Manager of VisitBritain; relationship with Stenden in the region, delivering network pared to International standards.” tourism conference “Tourism two-day conference held at Mark Wynne-Smith, Global University through various ini- performance on a level with the Wataniya Kuwait has recently in Tomorrow’s Word: What Renaissance Doha City Center CEO of Jones, Lang La Salle, tiatives. We are committed to very best international carriers, completed a $ 400 million network the future holds for tourism in Hotel, will attract leading deci- Hotels and Hospitality Group human capital development in said a report from leading telecom- modernisation programme, which the region,” on February 23. sion makers in hospitality, tour- and Scott Woroch, Executive this sector to deliver a tourism munications engineering and con- the company undertook in partner- The conference, which will ism, business and government Vice President of Worldwide experience that meets interna- sulting company Omnitele. ship with global ICT solutions provid- become an annual event, will as well as major travel and tour Development at Four Seasons tional standards.” Among the key findings of the ers Huawei and Ericsson. feature Eng Issa Al Mohannadi, operators and tourism research Hotels and Resorts. Professor Robert Coelen, audit was that Wataniya Kuwait’s As a result, it is one of several Chairman of Qatar Tourism academic from the region and Conference host Sheikh Executive Dean of SUQ, said: 3G network’s data rate is the best in Ooredoo markets that have seen Authority (QTA) who will out- internationally. Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani will “The conference, the first of the Omnitele global database, deliv- a major improvement in network line the strategy for the devel- Academic expert speakers welcome experts and delegates, its kind in the region, comes ering average throughput speeds of quality in recent months. With the opment of Qatar as a tourism will include Leendert Klasasen, and students from SUQ, will at a critical time, as Qatar is 9.5Mbps compared to 8.3Mbps for the on-going roll-out of 4G across the destination in the coming years. President of Stenden University play a key role in the confer- investing heavily in providing best operator measured in Europe. country, Internet speeds and network Dr Taleb Rifai, Secretary of Applied Sciences in The ence as volunteers throughout a high-quality family tourism In addition, the customer expe- performance are set to increase in General of the United Nations Netherlands and Professor the event, as well as participat- experience which will make it rience for voice calls – measured the coming months. World Tourism Organisation Robert Coelen, Executive Dean ing in panel discussions. an appealing tourist hub. through a series of Key Performance In order to deliver enhanced indoor (UNWTO), will deliver a key- of SUQ. Other speakers are Hassan Al Ibrahim, Director “We are delighted to welcome Indicators - were considered “very coverage for 3G and 4G LTE Mobile note address on the need to Professor Ian Yeoman of ETFI; of Strategy Development and so many international experts as good” compared to operators Broadband networks, Wataniya develop tourism to interna- John Ap, Associate Dean of SUQ; Head of tourism development keynote speakers, to share their worldwide. Kuwait has completely rebuilt its tional, sustainable standards. Miguel De Moragas, Professor committee at the QTA, said: experiences, detailed knowledge “As we implement our network mobile network, deploying cutting- Meanwhile, Qatar Airways’ of Communications and Dean “QTA’s strategic priorities and predictions for what trends enhancement strategy across our edge U900 technology for the first Chief Commercial Officer of Faculty of Communications include developing the tour- we can expect and how we can footprint in the Middle East, North time in Kuwait Marwan Koleilat will talk about Sciences Research at the ism sector through stakeholder best prepare for them in order Africa, and Southeast Asia, Ooredoo’s Company’s integrated campaign the development of air trans- University of Barcelona in engagement and inclusion while to deliver world-class service,” Wataniya network modernization Most Advanced Network has seen port capacity into Doha. Spain; Dr Martin Robertson focusing on sustainability and he added. programme has delivered a signifi- strong customer feedback, with data Hosted by Stenden University from Victoria University, authenticity as key elements THE PENINSULA cant improvement in customers’ utilisation growing by 20% over the online experience, and is already last three months. impacting job creation, household Ooredoo’s Wataniya network income, and GDP growth,” said enhancement fully supports Kuwait’s Dr Nasser Marafih, Group CEO, five-year development plan from Ooredoo. 2010-2014, as ICT drives the coun- The survey measured performance try’s information society across the Hospital hosts general medicine forum across 222 hotspots in Kuwait, 5,200 public, education, health, trade, and km of drive-tests across the country, industry sectors. 640km of sea measurements and 300 Wataniya Kuwait commercially km of extra 4G Long-Term Evolution launched 4G LTE in July 2013, joining (LTE) measurements. Ooredoo Qatar and Nawras in Oman. The report concluded that “The THE PENINSULA Algerian ministers meet Qatari envoy

ALGIERS: Algerian Energy and Mines Minister Yusuf Yusufi and the Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments, Dr Bu Abdullah Ghulamullah, held separate meetings with Qatari Ambassador Ibrahim bin Abdulaziz As Sihlawi yesterday. Discussions dealt with means of bol- stering relations. QNA Mosque sermons, tweets should not damage unity Some of the delegates and officials at the event.

Continued from page 1 expression, while others use mosques DOHA: The Al Wakrah Hospital (AWH) diagnosis of such cases. Sheffield, UK; Professor Mohammad We must understand that there is for partisan interests -- all these will recently hosted its inaugural conference The lectures were divided in six sessions Zubaid, Head of the Division of Cardiology, always tension in human relations take us back to the old days when on general medicine, bringing together with each featuring expert speakers who Mubarak Al Kabeer Hospital, Consultant but it’s our maturity, awareness and tribes fought against each other. international experts and local health- shared recent findings, management tech- Interventional cardiologist, Chest Diseases education that keeps us closer and We cannot attain the progress of care professionals to discuss the latest niques, risk factors and treatment options Hospital and Professor of Medicine at united. the developed world and countries of developments in the fields of internal of diseases such as clostridium difficile diar- Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University; There is no doubt that the Arab the European Union without chang- medicine and health care. rhoea (diarrhoea caused by an infection that Professor Hashem El Serag, leads the revolution has caused division and ing out negative perceptions. Arabs Organised by the Division of Medicine occurs as a result of antibiotic medication), Clinical Epidemiology and Outcomes discrimination among Arab people, must embrace the teachings of our at AWH, the two-day conference allowed hepatocellular carcinoma (a type of liver Program at the Houston Center for Quality caused by regimes, governments, par- religion and realize that Gulf unity healthcare professionals to review current cancer), sleep apnea (sleep disorder in of Care and Utilization Studies as well as ties with narrow interests, or due to is more important and stronger than medical practices, global healthcare chal- which paused or shallow breathing occurs Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences mixing of religion and politics, or we think. lenges and gain state-of-the-art medical at intervals), management of acute severe Program in the Dan Duncan Cancer Center; politics with culture, and all this is A statement from a mosque or knowledge about new ways of diagnosis and asthma, hyperthyroidism, hypertension, dia- Dr Hossein Gharib, thyroid expert, lec- orchestrated to divert public atten- tweets should not damage our unity, treatment of a variety of diseases and medi- betes mellitus, gestational diabetes (diabetes turer, author and editor, Rochester, US, Dr tion from real and serious issues. and it’s not possible as long as we cal conditions. that develops during pregnancy) chronic Andrew Menzies, clinical lead for severe Some countries use financial incen- remain committed to the teaching Topics at the conference were centred on kidney disease and corona virus. asthma, Royal Brompton Hospital and tives to influence others, some launch of Holy Quran and of our Prophet various clinical problems that physicians International speakers at the confer- honorary senior lecturer, Imperial College media campaigns against other (Peace Be Upon Him). are faced with in their daily practice and ence included: Professor Meguid El Nahas, London. countries in the name of freedom of THE PENINSULA provided insights into the management and Chairman, Global Kidney Academy, THE PENINSULA WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 MIDDLE EAST www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 09 Iran not open for business: US officials Sanctions relief limited, firms warned

WASHINGTON: US officials “The Iranian economy is oper- declared yesterday that Iran ating at significantly reduced is “not open for business” and levels and will continue to mas- vowed to scrutinise companies sively under-perform for the fore- heading to the Islamic repub- seeable future,” Cohen said. The lic since it entered a temporary November agreement between nuclear agreement. Iran and six powers — Britain, Testifying before sceptical China, France, Germany, Russia lawmakers, President Barack and the United States — required Obama’s administration detailed Tehran to scale back its nuclear initial sanctions relief to Iran, activities in return for the limited including the transfer of $550m sanctions relief. in frozen oil revenues as part of The Obama administration a six-month nuclear agreement. has presented the deal as a way But Wendy Sherman, who to a peaceful solution to address is spearheading the diplomacy long-standing concerns with Iran with Tehran, said that the United but has said that it is not taking States was warning the growing for granted that diplomacy will number of business delegations succeed. travelling to Iran that sweeping Iran insists that its nuclear sanctions remained in place. programme is for peaceful pur- “Tehran is not open for busi- poses. The clerical regime has ness because our sanctions relief particularly tense relations with Foreign journalists hold banners as they march to the Egyptian embassy in Nairobi yesterday to show support to Peter Greste, an Australian journalist is quite temporary, quite limited Israel, whose Prime Minister who was arrested and detained in Cairo while on assignment for Al Jazeera network on December 29, 2013. and quite targeted,” Sherman, Benjamin Netanyahu has criti- the under secretary of state for cised the negotiated deal. political affairs, told the Senate The US Congress, where sup- Foreign Relations Committee. port for Israel runs deep, has Accused Dutch journalist flees Egypt “It doesn’t matter whether the looked at ramping up sanctions countries are friend or foe — if on Iran despite the accord, but they evade our sanctions, we will Obama has threatened to veto CAIRO: A Dutch journalist has fled Egypt protest, and is on hunger strike. In a separate sanction them,” she said. any bid to derail the ongoing after it emerged she was one of 20 journal- case, freelance broadcast journalist Hossam Sherman said that Secretary of diplomacy. ists accused last week of “fabricating news” Meneai has claimed he was tortured while in State John Kerry spoke to Foreign Senator Robert Menendez, and being party to an alleged terrorist plot. jail on similar charges. Minister Laurent Fabius about a chairman of the Senate Foreign Rena Netjes, Cairo correspondent for Al Jazeera denies the charges against its major French delegation that is Relations Committee who has Holland’s Parool newspaper and BNR radio, is journalists. In an email to the Guardian before visiting Tehran, telling him that distanced himself from fel- among four foreigners and 16 Egyptians facing flying to the Netherlands, Netjes described the the trip — while from the pri- low Democrat Obama on Iran, charges of spreading false news while allegedly accusations as “unbelievably crazy”, and cred- vate sector — was “not helpful” demanded that any final deal with working for television network Al Jazeera. ited the Dutch embassy in Cairo with “saving in sending the message that “it is Tehran include the dismantling The case is part of what rights campaigners my life”. not business as usual.” of “large portions of its nuclear have said is a crackdown on free expression Netjes said it was likely she had come under The delegation from the infrastructure”. in Egypt. Netjes was not initially thought to suspicion because she visited Al Jazeera’s French employers’ union Medef “We have placed our incredibly be involved in the case because her name was Fahmy at the Marriott a few days before he is the largest from Europe since effective international sanctions misspelt on the charge-sheet, and because she was arrested, for an interview about the insur- the November nuclear accord and regime on the line without clearly has never worked for Al Jazeera. gency in Sinai. includes representatives from defining the parameters of what After her involvement became known, “This case is part of a violent campaign major companies such as Total, we expect in a final agreement,” Netjes went into hiding for several days. against the freedom of expression and journal- Lafarge and Peugeot. Addressing Menendez said. Senator Jim Following an intervention from Dutch officials, ism that we have never witnessed before, except the delegation, Deputy Oil Risch, a Republican, said that he Netjes was allowed to leave Egypt on Monday. during the dying days of the Mubarak regime, Minister Ali Majedi encouraged was “disgusted” by the diplomatic Two British defendants — understood to be from October to December 2010,” Gamal Eid, a foreign companies to return. effort. Al Jazeera reporters Dominic Kane and Sue leading Egyptian rights lawyer, and head of the David Cohen, the Treasury “I hope you will prove me dead Turton — had already left Egypt when the Dutch journalist Rena Netjes talks to the press Arabic Network for Human Rights Information, Department official in charge wrong, but I don’t think (you) charges were laid last Wednesday. after arriving at Schiphol Airport yesterday. told the Guardian last week. of the sanctions, acknowledged will, given the history of these Others accused in the case have not been so The government and its supporters say “a slight uptick” in Iran’s eco- people,” Risch said of Iran as he fortunate. Australian former BBC correspond- police raid on their rooms at Cairo’s Marriott foreign media are distorting the situation nomic indicators but said that the criticised its imprisonment of at ent Peter Greste, Canadian-Egyptian bureau hotel in late December. in Egypt, which they argue is on the path to United States would “vigorously” least two US citizens. chief Mohamed Fahmy, and local producer Al Jazeera reporter Abdullah Al Shami democracy. enforce sanctions. AFP Baher Mohamed have been in prison since a was jailed in August after being arrested at a THE GUARDIAN

Tough jail term for ‘offending’ Bahrain king DUBAI: Bahrain yester- day announced tougher jail sentences for offend- ing H M King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, as the country prepares to mark the third anniversary of a Shia-led uprising. An amendment to the 1976 penal code says that “publicly offending the King of Bahrain, its national flag or emblem” will carry a minimum one-year and a maximum seven-year sen- tence, as well as a fine of up to $26,000, state news agency BNA reported. The sentence can exceed seven years if the “offence was committed in the presence of the king,” the Tunisian special forces stand outside a bullet-riddled building in the Tunis suburb of Raoued in which armed report added, without pro- militants were holed up, yesterday. viding details. Previously, the same charges carried a minimum sentence of only Tunisian police kill seven militants a few days. In 2012, a criminal court TUNIS: Tunisian police killed dead, the Interior Ministry said. house. Heavily armed counter- jailed two activists for one seven Islamist militants, includ- Among those killed was Kamel terrorism police patrolled near and four months, respec- ing a senior commander wanted Ghadghadi, a senior member of the whitewashed house where the tively, after their convic- for the assassination of two the Ansar Al Sharia, wanted for fighting took place, its outer wall tion for posting on Twitter opposition leaders, after a clash killing seven soldiers, some of pockmarked by bullet holes. remarks deemed insulting outside Tunis where the armed whom had their throats slit, and Ansar Al Sharia was one of to the king. group had stashed arms and for assassinating opposition lead- the more radical movements Meanwhile, the Manama bomb belts. ers Chokri Belaid and Mohamed to emerge after Tunisia’s 2011 criminal court sentenced The raid was one of the deadli- Brahmi. uprising ousted president Zine 23 Shias to five years in est since Tunisian forces cracked “Ghadghadi is among those El Abidine Ben Ali, whose auto- jail for attacks with pet- down on the banned Islamist mili- killed. This is the best present for cratic regime suppressed and rol bombs and taking part tant movement Ansar Al Sharia, Tunisians a year after the mur- jailed Islamist leaders. in an unlicenced protest. whose leader declares allegiance to der of Belaid,” Interior Minister Tunisia formally celebrates Another Shia was jailed Al Qaeda, and which Washington Lofti Ben Jeddou told reporters a new constitution on Friday, for three years. lists as a foreign terrorist group. at a news conference. Officials with French President Francois At least 89 people have Gun battles broke out late on showed reporters a photograph Hollande and other dignitaries been killed in since the pro- Monday when police surrounded of what they said was Ghadghadi’s invited to the ceremony to mark tests began, according to the a house in the Raoued sub- corpse, wearing a suicide bomb the North African country’s International Federation for urb north of Tunis, leaving one belt. Other explosive material and progress to democracy. Human Rights. police officer and seven militants weapons were also found in the REUTERS AFP WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 10 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

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ORRUPTION is widespread and no country is hundred percent free from this malaise. We all know that the difference is only in degrees. While Csome countries are gobbled by this malaise, to the point of economic death, a few are least affected by it, Learning the lesson of Libya making them enjoy complete economic and social health. But a recent report shows that one region which has been BY JONATHAN POWER deteriorated and those that chose non- taken as only marginally affected by corruption is in fact is violence were pushed aside. The rebel seriously afflicted with this disease. The European Union’s N Saturday Libya beat Ghana militias faced the troops head on. The Home Affairs Commissioner Cecilia Malmstroem has to win the African Nations rebels called for the outside world to In theory it was a good presented a report saying that the extent of corruption in Football Championship. A intervene. return to normalcy? To win a The UN Security Council was con- idea in 2005 to pass a Europe is ‘breathtaking’ and it costs the EU economy at least O team must have a first class pitch and a vened and agreed (Russia and China resolution in the UN, 120bn euros annually. She said the true cost of corruption non-stressed out team. Does this indi- abstaining) that “all necessary means” was probably much higher than 120bn. Three-quarters of cate that Libya, two and a half years be used to protect Libya’s civilians. But legalising the concept Europeans surveyed for the Commission study said that after the fall of dictator, Muammar that was not what happened. France, corruption was widespread, and more than half said the level Gaddafi, is getting back on its feet? Denmark and the UK with US back of The Right to Protect, Alas, the football win is out of the up went for the jugular and set about had increased. The cost to the EU economy is equivalent ordinary in Libyan life, made by a team bombing the regime into submission. authorising intervention to the bloc’s annual budget. “The extent of the problem that has found a way to the top by hard Gaddafi was killed. is breathtaking, although Sweden is among the countries practice and severe self-discipline. The Russia felt betrayed. This was not in grave humanitarian with the least problems,” Malmstroem wrote in Sweden’s rest of Libya is not like that. Its gov- what it had accepted and it has made situations without a Goeteborgs-Posten daily. ernment is wobbly, self-appointed mili- it shy of voting for “humanitarian As expected, the results vary dramatically in countries tias still rule in many parts and the intervention” in Syria and, doubtless, government’s permission. rule of law is ignored as often as it’s future hot spots. As Professor Alan and have thrown up some interesting facts. The countries obeyed. An increasing number of its Kuperman writes in the current issue But this did not mean where respondents were most likely to think corruption people yearn for the peace and order of Harvard University’s “International is widespread are Greece (99 percent), Italy (97 percent), of the dictatorial Gaddafi regime where Security”, “If NATO had prioritised doing it the Libyan way. Lithuania, Spain and the Czech the economy grew, life was improving the protection of civilians it would Corruption Republic (95 percent in each).” In and even human rights were being have enforced a non-fly zone, bombed is that they have been able to vote in Denmark, by contrast, it’s only 10 more respected. forces that were threatening civilians democratic elections. But the unstable across EU Inspired by and attempted to forge a cease-fire. government has little authority in a percent. For example, many people the Arab Spring Instead NATO took actions that were country where the militias have grown is said to be who haven’t actually experienced in neighbour- unnecessary or inconsistent with pro- big, thanks to the unnecessary length breathtaking. corruption seem fairly certain that it’s An increasing ing Tunisia and tecting civilians but which fostered of the war. Kuperman argues that a serious problem in their countries. number of Libyan Egypt, Libyans, regime change”. The New York Times human rights abuses are considerably It’s time For example, in the case of the UK, so the accepted reported that NATO planes even worse than in the decade preceding the Western narra- attacked those Libyan forces which war. NATO intervention also triggered for tough only five persons out of 1,115 were people yearn for the peace tive went, rose were in retreat. a series of events that spilled over into measures expected to pay a bribe, which is up in non-violent Thanks to sloppy and sensational neighbouring Mali which then experi- less than one percent, showing the and order of the protests. Gaddafi reporting and NATO disinformation enced its own civil war. to curb the best result in all Europe. However, dictatorial Gaddafi responded by we were never given the true picture. The NATO action has also probably menace. the perception data show that 64 ordering the Rather we were reminded of the ter- upped the violence of the opposition percent of British respondents think regime where the protesters to be rorism Gaddafi initiated more than forces in Syria which have hoped that shot and ordered three decades earlier and which he had their civil war would provoke a similar corruption is widespread in the economy grew, life his troops to fire renounced many years ago. NATO intervention. It nearly did. country. Similarly, in countries like Germany, the Netherlands, was improving and indiscriminately As a result of NATO intervention, Future rebels in other countries may Belgium, Estonia and France, while more than half of the even human rights into residential Libya’s war lasted 36 weeks rather think the same. It is giving the concept respondents think corruption is a widespread phenomenon, areas. The pro- than ending in 6 weeks as NATO of “humanitarian intervention” a bad the actual number of people having had to pay a bribe is low were being more testers turned governments had at first estimated. name. Over the years there have been -- around two percent. This would show that graft is not as respected. violent and the Around 5,000 civilians and rebels were many useful and productive humani- civil war began. killed. tarian interventions- as by the UN in widespread as expected. It’s fear of corruption that is more In truth, many Gaddafi committed no blood baths Congo today. They have always been widespread in some EU countries than corruption itself. of the protesters from day one used (unlike Assad in Syria today where carried out with the acquiescence of If the EC thinks that corruption in the bloc is arms and the government at first the number of deaths has been around the local government. breathtaking, it shows its failure to curb the menace. But responded with only rubber bullets 100,000). By and large civilians were In theory it was a good idea in 2005 the challenges are very huge. The bloc is not homogeneous. and water cannons. Western televi- not targeted, as in Syria and Rwanda. to pass a resolution in the UN, legal- sion reported that Gaddafi’s forces By making it clear that they were ising the concept of “ The Right to Economic disparity is huge, with some countries like Greece had used live ammunition, showing a intent on regime change NATO per- Protect”, authorising intervention in and Italy convulsed by economic crisis, creating a fertile soil video of this. The BBC the next day, versely encouraged the regime to fight grave humanitarian situations without for corruption, while others like Germany and Sweden are almost alone among news organisa- to the bitter end, thus escalating and a government’s permission. But this on solid ground. But the bloc has a duty to devise measures tions, admitted it had made a reporting prolonging the war. Gaddafi’s offer of did not mean doing it the Libyan way. to root out the phenomenon. Corruption is against the very mistake. The video had been “uploaded a cease-fire and negotiations, only two This has given the whole notion a bad founding principles of European Union and the bloc needs to more than a year ago”. weeks into the conflict, was ignored. smell which will take some time to dis- Nonetheless the situation quickly The only apparent benefit to Libyans sipate. THE PENINSULA act more forcefully. The other side Quote of Iran-US rapprochement the day ONSIDERING that the solution to his country’s nuclear all progress. On its part, Iran must Lebanon, while both are also vying relationship between Iran dispute with major Western powers. satisfy the global community that its for influence in Iraq. Syria could well and the US has been Indeed, the breakthrough made last nuclear programme is peaceful; this be pacified if Saudi Arabia and Iran C characterised by deep November would be wasted if the can best be done by giving the IAEA convince their allies — the rebels and mistrust since 1979, normalisation temporary sanctions relief for Iran full access to Iranian nuclear facilities. the Assad regime, respectively — to of ties will be a long, difficult process. does not give way to normalisation Care must be taken, however, not to cease attacks and negotiate a settle- But the fact that both sides are of ties between the Islamic Republic allow hardliners in Washington and ment. Elsewhere in the Muslim world, I fundamentally engaging regularly is a hopeful sign and the West. It would be particularly Tehran to throw the détente off track. sectarian fires could be doused sig- believe that if you that the rivalry may one day give distressing if the earlier hostility Equally important was Zarif’s nificantly if the world’s most influ- way to mutual acceptance, if not witnessed between these two camps peace overture to Saudi Arabia in ential Sunni and Shia states extend are not learning new friendship. In this regard, Sunday’s were to resume after this period of Munich. Rapprochement between a hand of friendship to each other. things, you stop doing meeting between Iranian Foreign thaw. Both sides need to keep talking. Riyadh and Tehran would have a Pakistan would benefit on numerous Minister Javad Zarif and US Secretary The US and its allies in Europe must significant impact in the Arab and fronts from a Saudi-Iranian thaw. The great and useful of State John Kerry in Munich not further antagonise Tehran by Muslim world. Right now, the Saudis Saudis would do well to take up the things. was welcome. Iran’s top diplomat adding to the suffocating sanctions and Iranians find themselves sup- offer and work towards normalising reiterated the need for a permanent regime. That would be sure to scuttle porting opposing sides in Syria and ties. DAWN Satya Nadella New Microsoft CEO WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 11 Israeli peace talks: Turning point or a crisis? economy minister, Naftali Bennett, for Netanyahu’s hinting, at Davos, that Israeli settlements on the West Bank might remain as a negotiations with minority under future Palestinian sover- eignty has not only threatened his coalition but revealed that idea for what it really Kerry are taking was – a cynical invitation to Palestinians to reject it. It is a conflict that has marked place against a a crucial narrowing of Netanyahu’s room to operate. Under increasing US pres- sure, his convenient alliances with settler- background of supporting parties and figures who have suggested annexation of large areas of the divided public and West Bank and even population transfer have become more awkward and hostile. Rivals have cleaved to the positions of their political opinion. minority constituencies. Suddenly, stress points are visible. BY PETER BEAUMONT If one thing remains unchanged it is Netanyahu’s popularity. According to peaking at the World Economic the most recent Times of Israel poll, he Forum at Davos last month, retains a degree of personal popular- John Kerry, the US secretary ity (although he has been losing voters of state, spoke of the need to from his right-wing core and picking up solve the “intractable” problem support from the left and centre). His Sof brokering peace between the Israeli approval rating of 51 percent, however, is and Palestinian people. Intractable is a Israeli soldiers watch Palestinian activists arrive to set up a tent village in the Jordan Valley near the West Bank village of Bardala on matched by the numbers who believe the big word. It suggests the problem is insol- Saturday. The activists protested against the ongoing peace talks with Israel. country is heading in the wrong direction, uble, when the reality is that it is not. a figure that rises to 71 percent for voters Support for a two-state solution – minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, reflects not least those with interest in the occu- equals “delegitimisation”; the appeal aged 24 and under. In any snap election, an independent Palestine alongside where a substantial section of Israeli pation (the BDS movement), is following to security equates with a distrust of Netanyahu’s Likud-Yisrael Beiteinu party the state of Israel – is not a constant, politics stands today. While Netanyahu’s a familiar pattern to the sanctions move- Palestinian motives that need constantly would win the largest number of seats. as Peter Beinart illustrated in his book long-term obstruction of movement ment in South Africa. to be exposed. Given the exigencies of the politics sur- The Crisis of Zionism. After Oslo, the towards a two-state solution has been A movement at first confined to But if it is a formula that has worked rounding the Middle East peace process, high-water mark of optimism, it steadily both narrow and ideological – the reiter- academia and activist circles has gained for the last six years of the Obama only a fool would predict an outcome, not declined through the second intifada and ation of the hard-line revisionist Zionism traction in churches and now the busi- administration, there is some evidence least with some diplomats in Washington the conflict with Gaza. Even now, there espoused by his historian father – he has ness world. And however you choose that its effectiveness is weakening. assessing only a 10 percent chance of exists an odd tension in public opinion become in turn the receptacle for a wider to define the deficit of Palestinian civil Netanyahu, whose policy of keeping agreement on a framework document even on both sides, with a desire for the two pessimism about the peace process. rights in the occupied territories, where Barack Obama at arm’s length through a by the April deadline. However, after the leaderships to negotiate a settlement set The situation would be straightforward laws and rights are imposed or enjoyed policy of snubs, complaints and manoeu- long years of stalled negotiations, there is against a much weaker conviction that if this were the whole picture. But it is differentially according to what ID card vring, appears to have used most of the a hint that the tectonic plates might be in they are capable of doing it. not. Because that pessimistic Israel exists you hold, its continuation is becom- weapons in his arsenal. With the threat motion once again. Whether they will shift None of this should be surprising. alongside another Israel that wants to ing increasingly corrosive for Israel’s of war with Iran receding quickly after the stance of an Israeli prime minister who Politics, not least the politics of peace be more normal, that sees the obsession reputation abroad. The decision at the the recent nuclear deal, a distraction resigned from government over the Gaza negotiations, swings constantly between with security and maintaining the occu- beginning of this month by PGGM, the has been removed. The declaration by settlement withdrawal and who has vowed optimism and pessimism. On one side is pation of the West Bank as toxic to its Netherlands’ biggest pension fund, to cut Obama, who has been pushed into retreat in the past to hold on to as much of the the drama of the possibility of change own rights. This is an Israel that wants its ties with five Israeli banks is an indi- before by Netanyahu, in the State of the West Bank as possible is an even more dif- energised by expectation. The other is to be open for business. cation of the movement’s advances. Union address last week that he would ficult question. characterised by a wary stasis. The 100 or so Israeli business leaders Those who have dismissed Netanyahu, veto any attempts by Congress to derail But the lessons of apartheid in South The question hanging over this latest who appealed to Netanyahu at Davos to including US diplomats who believed he that deal is an indication that the game Africa and the Troubles in Northern round of negotiations – as Kerry returns reach an agreement with Palestinians or was an obstruction, to be bypassed even- might be changing. That has coincided Ireland are that “intractable” problems to the region this week to continue dis- face a growing threat of sanctions are tually, have underestimated his talent as with a renewed and committed engage- eventually can be brought to a just reso- cussions over establishing a framework neither outliers nor representative of a a wily politician. He has formed prag- ment from John Kerry, a secretary of lution. If there should be urgency over document to further the peace proc- marginal constituency. They recognise, matic partnerships to block progress and state far more capable than his hyper- this long-festering issue, it is because ess – is whether sufficient enthusiasm as Netanyahu has too in his own way in has been adroit in synthesising Israel’s active predecessor, Hillary Clinton. there is a pressing issue of self-interest. can be rekindled on either side to make calling a meeting of ministers to discuss competing anxieties into a single story Netanyahu finds himself increasingly Occupation hurts not only those being progress. the growing threat, that the movement with broad appeal, one that sustains him exposed in Israeli politics as well. His occupied. It damages the occupier too. In this respect, the Israeli prime for divestment from Israeli companies, in power. In this story, criticism of Israel condemnation by coalition partner and THE GUARDIAN US-style school shooting shakes Russia Egypt’s attack on media gives little cause for hope Russia should wake up to the BY SARAH CARR huge body of research in school gypt is in the middle of a massive crackdown primarily target- ing members of the Muslim Brotherhood and anyone associ- shootings that exists in the US and ated with it. Interior ministry buildings in Cairo and other Eareas of Egypt have been targeted by bombers on numerous occasions over the past six months. The most deadly of these attacks, start looking for ways to reduce on 24 December, killed 16 people. The Egyptian government has responded by declaring the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist organisation. social stress in the school system. But, as has been demonstrated in the western nations since 2001, wars on terror are unruly beasts. In the name of fighting terrorism BY LEONID BERSHIDSKY Disease Control and Prevention. and re-establishing stability, Egypt has arrested thousands (one local From 1992 to 2009, there were non-governmental organisation puts the figure at more than 20,000) ussians had considered 14 to 34 homicides a year at US and sought recourse to legislation that has effectively killed off public their country immune schools. Many other countries, displays of political opposition. to the kind of school including Finland and China, have A major front in this war on terror has been opened against the The Columbine High School in Colorado. Rviolence that the US also experienced school shoot- media. On 29 January it became clear that 20 journalists, including four has suffered in incidents such ings, but such incidents had been foreigners, were facing charges of joining or aiding a terrorist group as the Sandy Hook Elementary unheard of in Russia. “We need to educate a new gen- shooting ought to take a look at and spreading false news. Two of these foreigners, Egyptian-Canadian shootings and the Columbine Gordeyev was an A student in eration of spectators with a good the Vkontakte page of School 263. producer Mohamed Fahmy and Australian journalist Peter Greste, High School massacre. Now, the 10th grade (the equivalent taste in art, an understanding and Some commentators there called were arrested at the end of December while working for Al Jazeera 15-year-old Sergei Gordeyev has of a US high school junior) at appreciation of theatre, drama Gordeyev a hero for challenging English. They joined Al Jazeera Arabic journalists including 25-year- disabused them of that notion, School 263 in northern Moscow. and music,” he said. “And if we authority. “Russian schools are old Abdullah Al Shamy in detention. Al Shamy was arrested in August killing a teacher and a cop at his He showed up at the school with did this right, maybe there would run by scum,” LiveJournal user 2013 and is currently on hunger strike in protest at his incarceration. school in northern Moscow. his father’s hunting carbine and be no tragedies like the one that Alexander Draf posted in partial If the authorities and some of the domestic media are to be believed, News of the shooting, which rifle, forced the school guard to let occurred in Moscow today.” justification of Gordeyev’s actions. members of the Egypt’s foreign press corps are all secret members occurred around midday Monday, him in, and walked into a biology Ultranationalist lawmaker “If you are in some way different of the Brotherhood, creating Islamist anarchy and mischief on behalf immediately prompted com- class. He fired at geography and Vladimir Zhirinovsky suggested from your classmates, they will of Al Jazeera. I grew up in the UK and didn’t know what Sinn Féin parisons to the United States. biology teacher Andrei Kirillov, that all guns be confiscated from run you into the ground. ... Most president Gerry Adams’ voice sounded like until 1994 because Margaret “Have we caught the American 29, and, finding him still alive, citizens and stored for them at people are talking about what a Thatcher decided that a voice ban, imposed in 1988, would “deny ter- disease?” user Tanya Morozova killed him with another shot to police stations, and criminals good guy the dead teacher was, rorists the oxygen of publicity”. wrote on the Russian social net- the head. The sensationalist web- above 10 be treated the same as looking for problems with the The Egyptian government wants to do the same thing to the work Vkontakte. “It’s all about site Life.ru reported, after speak- adults. He said Gordeyev must teenager and his family, not with Brotherhood, which it declared a terrorist organisation after the American movies and cartoons,” ing with Gordeyev’s classmates, have seen many films and TV classmates and teachers.” December bombing, but the bungling way in which it is going about it user Nadir Kuramshin tweeted. that the shooter was mad at the shows about school shootings in Because Russians have always threatens to silence the media as a whole. “Kids ought to be brought up on teacher for giving him grades that the US. Yarovaya blamed “an perceived deadly school violence The domestic media has, with a few notable exceptions, taken its Soviet or Russian ones so they do could spoil his perfect A record. aggressive trend in computer as something that happens only lead from the street and strongly backed the state’s version of events; not seize schools like they do in Gordeyev’s true motives, however, games” for the crime and called in America, they saw no reason it had declared the Brotherhood a terrorist organisation months before. America.” remain unclear. He told the class for “maximum limitations on the to tackle widespread bullying The more circumspect, pesky foreign press, meanwhile, have been Pundits and officials expressed after shooting Kirillov: “I am spread of firearms and tougher and sadistic behaviour by teach- less co-operative. For a long time the quarrel was over nomenclature, similar sentiments. TV and radio very scared of death. I wanted control over their storage.” ers. Gordeyev’s case suggests that and the authorities took umbrage over the use of the word coup. commentator Sergei Dorenko told to see it up close.” By the time Russia already has strict gun Russian teenagers, like kids their What they fail to realise is that even if Mursi was removed with the website actualcomment.ru Gordeyev shot the teacher, the controls. Obtaining a gun license age the world over, can react vio- mass public backing, as he was, and even if Egypt is being targeted by that more instruction in Russian guard downstairs had hit his is an obstacle course that includes lently to stress. Injections of more terrorists, there is something decidedly dodgy about talking about the literature would be the cure. “We alarm button, and police promptly medical and criminal background Russian culture, bans on US video greatest constitution in Egyptian history and a new era for democracy must draw conclusions from the arrived. The 15- year-old opened checks. The fact that this did not games or even a total ban on guns while simultaneously hissing at the media through gritted teeth to monstrous examples that take fire at them, killing police ser- prevent Gordeyev’s crime sug- will hardly put that right. stay on message. place almost daily in the US,” geant Sergei Bushuev and gravely gests that a determined shooter Russia should wake up to the Cumulatively, and amid the continuing mass arrests and detentions, parliament security committee wounding another officer. Later, will be able to obtain a weapon. body of research in school shoot- these incidents have had a chilling effect on the media. chief Irina Yarovaya said, accord- Gordeyev’s father reached him on Gordeyev appeared to be inter- ings that exists in the US and What is most frightening, however, is that both private and pub- ing to the official site of her party, his mobile phone, persuading him ested in firearms and in taking start looking for ways to reduce lic media have chosen to abdicate their duty to question the state’s United Russia. to release the hostages and drop revenge on teachers: His page social stress in the school system. narrative and hold officials to account. The other side of the story, It’s true that the United States the guns from a window. Because on Vkontakte, of which a cached In a country without a tradition criticism of events since 30 June, rarely appears on the pages of the has more recorded school shoot- he is a minor, he faces a 10-year copy is available, contained a of school violence, prevention local press, whether out of a misguided sense of patriotism or because ings than any other country. In prison sentence rather than life story of a malicious prank played might work better than it does of the red lines that have re-established themselves following a brief 2011, 7.4 percent of US high school imprisonment if he is convicted on a physics teacher and a link in the US, where, despite aware- hiatus after 2011. students reported having been of murder. to a video of “the fastest shooter ness of the problem, the number The 30 June revolution, its advocates say, saved Egypt from the threatened with a weapon — a Russian President Vladimir in the world.” Instead of blaming of violent deaths at schools has Muslim Brotherhood’s religious totalitarianism. The question now is gun, a knife or a club — at school, Putin mentioned the shooting at the US, those in Russia interested been fairly stable over the last 20 whether it has replaced it with something just as bad. according to the Centers for a meeting with cultural figures. in preventing a second school years. WP-BLOOMBERG THE GUARDIAN WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 12 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MIDDLE EAST

Egypt’s former Civilians flee barrel bombs in Syria top officer to Damascus to ship more chemicals weapons; Russia says Syria govt will attend peace talks testify in Mursi

MOSCOW/BEIRUT: Russia to construct and usually dropped said its ally Syria would soon from helicopters, often kill dozens trial today ship more chemical weapons at a time. Activists say they are abroad for destruction after being used to push people from CAIRO: An Egyptian court will being accused of dragging its rebel-held areas into state-con- begin hearing testimonies in the feet, while activists said civil- trolled parts of the city. murder trial of deposed Islamist ians in Aleppo were fleeing “In recent days the flight of president Mohamed Mursi from deadly barrel bomb raids by civilians has intensified and the today, when a former top mili- President Bashar Al Assad’s regime has made some small tary officer will give evidence. air force. gains,” said Rami Abdelrahman, In the brief session yesterday, Moscow also said yesterday head of the Syrian Observatory the court decided to convene that the Syrian government for Human Rights, a pro-opposi- again today to hear testimony would show up at a new round tion monitoring group. from the former head of the mili- of peace talks next week, hoping “The main aid to their advance tary’s Republican Guard, the unit to allay Western concerns over has been the rebel infighting.” tasked with providing security for Assad’s commitment to negotia- The reported gains by Assad’s Egypt’s presidents. tions which ended inconclusively forces are small. But if they build Mursi was present in the court, in Geneva last week. on them and take the rebel-held inside a soundproof glass dock to The diplomatic assurances portion of Syria’s former business prevent him from interrupting come as government forces esca- hub, it would be a huge blow to proceedings with defiant out- late their assault on Syria’s sec- the opposition, forcing it back into bursts, as he had done in previous ond city of Aleppo, using a near the northern and eastern coun- hearings. Mursi and 14 co-defend- daily barrage of barrel bombs that tryside and leaving it without a ants, including former aides, are some activists say is forcing resi- major presence in either of the accused of inciting the killing of dents to flee and slowly gaining two biggest cities. opposition activists outside the ground for the president against Other opposition sources deny presidential palace in December rebel forces weakened by weeks government advances. Media 2012, an incident that hastened of infighting. access in Syria is severely lim- his overthrow by the military While the fall of Aleppo is not ited by violence and government almost seven months later. seen as imminent, Assad is keen restrictions, making conflicting The Islamist, dressed in white to control it, together with the accounts difficult to verify. prison garb, gestured at the court capital Damascus and his heart- Syria’s civil war has killed more with a four fingered salute, the land along the coast. But the than 130,000 people and forced A woman and her children stand scared outside their home following a reported Syrian government forces air symbol of an Islamist protest rest of the country remains frag- over 6 million from their homes. strike in the northern city of Aleppo yesterday. camp violently dispersed by police mented between rebel, Kurds and Russia and the United States, in August in an operation that other armed groups. aligned to Assad and the rebels Syria has failed to meet its weapons has prompted Western Russia,” he said. “The Russian killed hundreds. He had insisted Western analysts say Assad’s respectively, have been deadlocked deadline to eliminate all chemical criticism that Damascus was side now understands the posi- in past hearings that he is still the use of indiscriminate weapons and unable to ease the violence. agents by next week, but Russia seeking to gain leverage dur- tion of our Coalition better.” legitimate president. such as barrel bombs and his But they joined forces to launch said the government would be ing the peace talks. Russia says Moscow wants to persuade Mursi faces four separate tri- delaying the process of eliminat- the Geneva peace negotiations able to complete the removal by those concerns are overblown and the Coalition-led delegation at als, on charges ranging from con- ing his chemical arsenal suggests which began two weeks ago. The March 1. rejects claims that the move is Geneva to include more moderate tempt of the judiciary to plotting he sees little prospect of the West first round produced few results, “Literally yesterday the Syrians deliberate, while Syria has blamed internal opposition groups, which an elaborate conspiracy involving taking meaningful action against but a second starts next week. announced that the removal of a security concerns for the delay. rebels argue are Assad stooges. Iran and Palestinian militants to him. Preparations for the talks took large shipment of chemical sub- Russia also hosted the leader Jarba excluded any groups that conduct attacks in Egypt. AFP Photographs showed streets place in tandem with a deal to stances is planned in February. of the opposition’s National had been prepared “in the base- packed with Aleppo residents car- remove Syria’s chemical weapons, They are ready to complete this Coalition, Ahmad Jarba, for the ments of the regime’s security rying large packs as they fled the agreed a month after a poison gas process by March 1,” said Russian first time since the three-year-old service”. “There will be nobody UN appeals for home-made barrel bombs — oil attack in the Damascus suburbs Deputy Foreign Minister Gennady conflict began. in the opposition delegation to drums or cylinders packed with on August 21 which killed hun- Gatilov, according to the state-run Jarba spoke positively despite Geneva who is tied to the regime $1.27bn aid for explosives and metal fragments. dreds. The deal allowed Assad to Russian news agency RIA. Moscow’s support for Assad. “We this way or another,” he said. Barrel bombs, cheap and easy escape US-led air strikes. The delay in removing chemical now have good relations with REUTERS South Sudan

JUBA: The United Nations issued an urgent appeal yester- Playing in the snow day for $1.27bn for aid for South Sudan, hit by a seven-week-old conflict that has forced close to a Yemen Shia rebels, million people from their homes. “The priority is to save lives now, and ensure that we have food, medicine and other lifesav- tribes agree truce ing supplies prepositioned in the field, in easy reach of aid agencies before the rains hit and the roads SANA’A: Shia rebels and sev- fighting... reopening of roads and become impassable,” said Toby eral tribes of the influential allowing supporters of Ansarullah Lanzer, the UN’s top aid official Hashid confederation in north- to move freely” in areas under in South Sudan. ern Yemen agreed yesterday tribal control, he said. Describing the impact of the to end fighting that has killed Sources say divisions within fighting as “devastating”, he said nearly 150 people in a week, the Hashid confederation could there were 3.2 million people suf- both sides said. have contributed to the defeat fering the humanitarian conse- But the deal does not include the of the Al Ahmar because many quences, including 900,000 people Al Ahmar, the Hashid’s historical tribes have sided with the rebels. who have been forced to abandon leading clan, whose stronghold was The divisions are the result of a their homes and thousands more overrun at the weekend and whose rift between Hashid chief Sheikh wounded. “Livelihoods have been fighters have fled to the capital. Sadeq and ousted president Ali lost, and people’s ability to move The Ansarullah (Partisans of Abdullah Saleh, who also belongs livestock to pasture, to fish or to God) rebels, also known as Huthis, to the confederation and can still hunt, has been severely compro- have been pushing out from the count on the loyalty of some of mised,” he said. mountains of the far north to its tribes. “I ask the international donor areas closer to Sana’a to expand The Al Ahmar sided with the community to stand with the peo- their hoped-for autonomous unit Arab Spring protests that forced ple of South Sudan and the aid in a promised federal Yemen. They Saleh to step down in February agencies working here to help People play in the snow in Sulaimaniya province, 330km northeast of Baghdad, yesterday. met with fierce resistance at first 2012 after 33 years in power. them before the situation gets from pro-government tribes in the A tribal source confirmed the even worse,” Lanzer added. Zaidi Shia northern highlands led agreement and said “Al Ahmar Fighting broke out in South by the Al Ahmar. dignitaries have evacuated their Sudan on December 15 between But at the weekend they seized strongholds in Amran”. troops loyal to President Salva Kiir the town of Huth and Khamri vil- The deal with the rebels marks and those allied to ousted vice- lage — the seat of Hashid tribal “a revolt by the Hashid against president Riek Machar, and quickly Israel’s top court orders govt chief Sheikh Sadeq Al Ahmar — in Al Ahmar and their 50-year-long spread throughout the country. the northern province of Amran. injustice,” he said, adding that the The work of aid agencies has Abdel Karim Al Khaywani, an agreement was overseen by Ali been complicated by looting of to explain valley barrier route Ansarullah spokesman, said: Hamid Jelidan of the Bani Suraim, humanitarian supplies by both “We reached a peace agreement who is known for his close ties sides in the conflict. Vehicles, food yesterday with the Bani Suraim, to Saleh. The ex-president has stockpiles and medicines have JERUSALEM: Israel’s top Council for Peace and Security, “The court’s decision is an indica- Usaimat and Uzer,” all Hashid seemed reluctant to retire from also been looted from organisa- court has given the government a group of former high-ranking tion that it is not inclined to adopt tribes in Amran, where fight- political life and is accused by oppo- tions including the International two months to explain why it security officials, proposed an the state’s position,” said a statement ing erupted on January 5. The nents of impeding the UN-backed Committee of the Red Cross, has not proposed an alternative alternative route for the barrier from Zvi Avni, legal council for St agreement, reached without the transition in Yemen. Doctors Without Borders and the route for the West Bank barrier it said would save most of the Yves, which represents the Salesian Al Ahmar, stipulates an “end to AFP World Food Programme. AFP in a valley near Jerusalem. villagers’ land and better ensure convent and its school. “We defi- The decision, handed down Israel’s security needs. nitely have new hope - the answer by the High Court on Monday, On Monday, the court ordered of the court is a good sign.” relates to an appeal by Palestinian the defence ministry to explain in The same court is considering residents of Beit Jala, who say the writing “why other alternatives to a separate appeal against the bar- proposed route will separate them the route of the fence were not rier’s route lodged by residents of Kuwait urged to allow free speech from their olive groves and divide examined... and why an alterna- the nearby Palestinian village of the local Christian community. tive route had not been adopted.” Battir, who say it will destroy its KUWAIT CITY: Human Rights said in a statement on the occa- Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, par- The residents say that if the It also asked why four seizure ancient terraces and a Roman- Watch urged Kuwait yester- sion of releasing its 2014 report doned in July all those jailed defence ministry insists on build- orders relating to Palestinian era irrigation system. day to amend laws that officials on Kuwait. under Article 25, but authorities ing through the middle of the land in the Cremisan Valley had On Sunday, the court ordered are using to crack down on free “The government should let subsequently brought charges Cremisan Valley, it would mean 58 not been cancelled. The minis- Israel Railways and the defence speech and send people to jail for Kuwait’s people speak and write against at least three more people. families losing their land and would try has until April 10 to respond ministry to look into the possi- criticising the country’s ruler. freely, and keep its promises HRW said that in 2013, secu- split the Roman Catholic Salesian in writing. If the barrier is built bility of removing one of the two HRW also called on Kuwaiti to address Bidoon citizenship rity forces violently dispersed order’s properties, leaving a mon- along the route proposed by the railway tracks that run just under authorities to fulfil their prom- claims,” said Nadim Houry, dep- several protests staged by state- astery on the Israeli side and a con- ministry, the villagers and the Battir as a potential alternative ises to resolve the decades-old uty Middle East director at HRW. less people demanding citizenship vent on the Palestinian side. Salesian order stand to lose 3000 route for the barrier. problem of over 100,000 stateless Prosecutors brought most of the and other basic rights, with police The land in question is a valley dunams (300 hectares/741 acres) “Removing one of the tracks people, or bidoons, who claim the speech cases under the vaguely beating and detaining protesters between the sprawling settlement of land, 700 of which belongs to which runs closest to the vil- right to citizenship. worded article 25 of Kuwait’s 1970 and threatening to deny citizen- neighbourhood of Gilo in annexed the church. lage would allow the fence to be During the past year, authori- penal code, under which anyone ship applications. east Jerusalem, and the smaller But if it follows the route pro- moved... by a few metres. Thus, ties in the Gulf state have brought who publicly “objects to the rights Kuwait is home to at least West Bank settlement of Har posed by the Council for Peace and there would be no need to dam- cases against at least 29 people and authorities of the emir or 105,702 bidoons, many descended Gilo, just a few kilometres to the Security, no land will be seized, age the lowest terrace,” the court for expressing critical views on faults him,” can be jailed up to from nomadic people who failed southwest. figures from St Yves Catholic said, giving Israel Railways until social media platforms and at pro- five years, HRW said. to register for citizenship before At a hearing last week, the rights group show. February 27 to respond. AFP tests, the New York-based HRW The Kuwaiti Emir H H Sheikh a 1960 deadline. AFP WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 INTERNATIONAL www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 13

Frozen Slovenia Erdogan urges Ukraine MPs more German support for fail to strike its EU bid BERLIN: Turkey’s prime min- ister urged Germany yesterday to step up support for his coun- try’s stumbling EU bid but ran statute deal into continued scepticism from Chancellor Angela Merkel. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, grap- pling with the worst crisis of his 11 EU foreign policy chief to hold talks years in office, acknowledged the need for his country to reform if KIEV: Ukrainian lawmakers “Until we see a complete change it wanted to join the 28-member failed to agree on curbing the which is not just Yanukovich, peo- bloc, amid concerns over the state president’s powers at a stormy ple will stand here,” said Vasyl, a of democracy in Turkey. debate yesterday as interna- campaigner from Lviv in western “We expect to receive Germany’s tional pressure grew for ending Ukraine. support for our path into the EU,” the two-month crisis with the Bogdan, an activist from Kiev, Erdogan told the German Council expected arrival of the EU for- said: “It would be the best way on Foreign Relations, a think tank. eign policy chief. for us. A full reset of power. Both “We would like Germany to Catherine Ashton was due to president and parliament.” campaign more strongly than it meet opposition leaders for dinner At a pro-government camp just has until now,” he added through in Kiev yesterday and President a stone’s throw away from the Two men walk next to ice-covered trees in Postojna, Slovenia, yesterday. Snow and ice have paralysed the an interpreter. Viktor Yanukovich today to dis- protesters, 27-year-old Andriy country following three days of blizzards, bringing down trees and electricity pylons, cutting power to 50,000 Erdogan’s visit to Europe’s cuss plans for financial aid from Kucher said Yanukovich’s resigna- homes, and causing millions of euros of damage. top economy came on the eve of Brussels and Washington in tion would mean that “the military a parliamentary vote over new exchange for democratic reforms. coup has been successful”. Internet legislation portrayed by Ukraine’s protests erupted “He was democratically elected,” the government as shielding the in November after Yanukovich Kucher said. young from dangerous material rejected a key EU pact in favour In parliament, world champion but which critics say is a further of closer ties with Moscow, and the boxer turned protest leader Vitali US ambassador McFaul to leave erosion of personal freedom in the turmoil has now become an all-out Klitschko called for an “end to the aspiring EU member. movement to oust him. dictatorship” saying Ukrainians “It goes without saying that also Demands of pro-EU protest were fed up with corruption and it’s up to Turkey, in the admission leaders include constitutional lawlessness. Russia, Obama administration process, to pursue its reforms and amendments that would cut pres- After meeting Yanukovich to continually carry these out,” idential powers and freedom for yesterday, Klitschko said he had MOSCOW: US Ambassador Russia reluctantly. I love this job.” on Moscow during the “reset”, Erdogan told the think tank. arrested activists without condi- pressed him on the need for a con- Michael McFaul, who engi- A meeting with rights activ- which improved relations that Merkel, whose conservatives tions, but Yanukovich’s ruling stitutional reform to reduce presi- neered Washington’s “reset” of ists and opposition leaders during had become increasingly strained favour forging a partnership Regions Party has insisted this can dential powers and give more clout relations with Moscow but riled McFaul’s first week in Moscow during the administration of between the EU and Turkey only happen if occupied govern- to the legislature. Russia during his tenure as drew criticism from Russian offi- George W. Bush and hit a low rather than full membership, ment buildings are vacated. “He told me it would take envoy, said yesterday he would cials and particularly the state with Russia’s war against Georgia told reporters it was no secret In a sign that Yanukovich’s posi- between one and six months. I told soon leave his posting and the media, which often have por- in 2008. she remained “sceptical” about tion is softening further, his per- him we don’t have time,” he said. administration of President trayed him as seeking to foment McFaul said he would go with Turkey’s eventual accession. sonal representative in parliament Klitschko said it would be pos- Barack Obama. revolution. “a sense of accomplishment”, The German leader said: “This Yuriy Miroshnychenko, said that sible to speed up the process by McFaul helped Obama improve But it was McFaul’s manner, citing the new START nuclear process is open-ended and it is also the president was considering “two reverting to a previous version ties with Russia during his first as much as the US policies he arms limitation pact, coopera- not limited timewise. We have a possible scenarios”. of the constitution with a parlia- term but was clouded by contro- pursued, that frequently rubbed tion on Afghanistan and Russia’s series of problems anyway to still “The first is the release of occu- mentary vote and the session was versy from the start of his stint as Russian officials the wrong way. entry into the World Trade resolve.” pied buildings and an amnesty and adjourned to today. envoy after Vladimir Putin, cam- The ebullient native of the west- Organisation as achievements But she continued: “We want to the second is early elections. The Opposition MPs chanted paigning to regain the presidency ern frontier state of Montana reached since he joined Obama. advance it.” amnesty is not working out,” he “Killers! Killers! Killers!” as the in 2012, accused Washington of broke the mould of restrained “President Obama is deeply Erdogan’s visit to Germany, said, referring to the release of chief lawmaker from the Regions stirring up protests. diplomacy, using social media and grateful for Ambassador McFaul’s home to around three million peo- those arrested in past weeks. Party, Oleksandr Yefremov, took McFaul cited family reasons speeches to students to get his extraordinary service over the ple with Turkish roots, followed A conditional amnesty came the floor with an emotional speech for his departure, saying his messages across. last five years,” White House dep- a recent trip to Brussels aimed into force on Saturday and gives in which he blasted the “extrem- wife and sons had moved back Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov uty national security adviser Ben at reinvigorating Turkey’s long- protesters 15 days to leave the ism” of the protesters. to California last summer and once accused McFaul of arro- Rhodes said, adding he “helped standing bid to join the bloc but buildings but the opposition has Yanukovich has scrapped dra- that he would be based for the gance, and the ministry said shape policies that advanced dominated by his controversial dismissed the law, saying it turns conian anti-protest laws and the time being at Stanford University, he had stepped “far beyond the America’s interests. response to his domestic problems. activists into “hostages”. prime minister and the entire where he taught before Obama boundaries of diplomatic eti- “Moreover, Mike has been tire- In his Berlin speech, Erodgan Protesters camped out on Kiev’s cabinet have resigned under oppo- brought him to Washington in quette” when he said Russia had less in advocating for the univer- highlighted the contribution Independence Square — the hub sition pressure but other demands 2009. offered Kyrgyzstan a bribe to kick sal values that America stands Turkey could make in conflict of a movement that has spread remain unanswered. “After more than five years the United States out of a tran- for around the world, reaching resolution, noting its cultural and across Ukraine — expressed mixed At least two protesters and working for the Obama admin- sit facility used to support opera- out to civil society, and recognis- historical ties with North Africa feelings about the possibility of two policemen have been killed in istration, it is time to go home,” tions in Afghanistan. ing the right of every voice to be which could help in the Middle Yanukovich stepping down before clashes. McFaul, 50, said in a lengthy A Russian speaker and expert, heard,” Rhodes said. East peace process, he said. the end of his mandate in 2015. AFP entry on his blog. “I will leave McFaul was Obama’s top adviser REUTERS AFP

Gunmen kill 30 in Nigeria UN to airlift aid to Central Africa JOS: Gunmen killed about GENEVA: The UN’s World make a round-trip daily car- A new escorted convoy was 30 people in an early morning Food Programme said yes- rying up to 100 tonnes of food, expected to reach the capital on raid on two villages in central terday it was running out with the aim of flying in 2,000 Tuesday, but it was unclear how Nigeria, witnesses said yes- of food aid to distribute in tonnes of mostly rice by the end many of the 43 WFP trucks still terday, in the latest violence the conflict-ravaged Central of the month. stuck at the border would make to hit the region. African Republic and would It is five times more expensive it to Bangui, Byrs said. The police in Plateau state, begin flying in supplies from to bring food in by air than by As of last Thursday, she which has been hit by repeated Cameroon. road, but the air bridge was nec- said, only 120 tonnes of grain communal violence, confirmed “The date when the air bridge essary since truck drivers trans- remained in WFP’s Bangui the attack but could not pro- will open has not yet been set porting WFP supplies had since warehouses — far from enough vide details of casualties. but it is imminent,” WFP early January balked at crossing to help fill stomachs even in One witness, Rufus Gyang, spokeswoman Elisabeth Byrs the border without escorts. the capital, where more than said the attack happened at told reporters in Geneva. It was only at the end of 500,000 people are now believed about 3am and the gunmen The country is on the verge January that the African-led to be homeless. Last October, “started shooting sporadically, of a “food security crisis,” and International Support Mission the UN estimated that 30 per- killing innocent villagers in the UN agency’s food reserves to the Central African Republic cent of households in Central their sleep”. in Bangui are currently “very, first provided an escort, allow- Africa, or about 1.3 million peo- Nineteen people were killed very low,” she said. ing 10 trucks to reach the capi- ple, were “food insecure”. in Rajat and 11 in Atakar vil- Byrs said a jumbo jet would tal Bangui. AFP lages, all in the Riyom local government area of the state, he added. Auction of Miro Dreams of family and food S Africa police works scrapped disperse 3,000 LISBON: Christie’s auction sustained Pacific castaway miners house cancelled the sale of 85 paintings by the Catalan MAJURO: A castaway who “There were times I would JOHANNESBURG: Surrealist Joan Miro yes- says he survived 13 months think about killing myself. But South African police said terday after an uproar over adrift in the Pacific said yester- I was scared to do it,” he added, they used stun grenades whether debt-ridden Portugal, day he thought about suicide but raising his arm, pointing to heaven and rubber bullets to their legal owner, could was sustained by dreams of eat- and declaring: “God! Faith!” disperse 3,000 “violent” sell the treasures to buyers ing his favourite food — tortillas Alvarenga said he would dream striking miners yester- abroad. The auctioneers with- — and reuniting with his family. of eating all his favourite foods as day in the restive plati- drew them from a London sale Fisherman Jose Salvador he drifted across the Pacific. num belt near Marikana, even though a Lisbon court Alvarenga also described being “But then I woke up and all I where 34 workers were threw out a suit by opposition forced to dump the body of his see is the sun, sky and the sea,” shot dead in 2012. lawmakers, prosecutors and teenage companion overboard he said. Strikers “carrying dan- the public trying to block the when he starved to death, but “I would imagine and dream a gerous weapons, such as offer saying the government said his own strong religious faith lot about my family — my mother knobkerries (clubs) and had violated the rules on clas- helped as he drifted some 12,500 and my father,” he said. Alvarenga sticks, blocked the road and sifying the artwork. The Miro kilometres from Mexico to the said he was not married but has a were threatening to remove collection, estimated at more Marshall Islands. daughter named Fatima. non-striking workers at than €35m, came into state “I didn’t want to die of starva- “Thank God he is alive. We are the shaft”, police said in a hands in 2008 when Portugal tion,” he said through a Spanish overjoyed... I just want him here statement. nationalised the failed bank interpreter at Majuro Hospital, with us,” his mother Maria Julia Miners “threatened BPN that owned them. where he is recuperating after Alvarenga told CNN in his home- to attack the police with AGENCIES being found disoriented last land El Salvador. stones”, the statement said. Thursday at a remote coral atoll. AFP AFP WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 14 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com INTERNATIONAL

Millions face travel chaos in London Floods make tube strike LONDON: Millions of com- muters face travel chaos this British village week as London Underground prepares for a two-day rail strike over planned job cuts and the closure of ticket offices. The world’s oldest and largest underground rail network, which an island carries three million passengers a day, was to be all but shut down from last evening through Govt’s emergency response criticised to tomorrow evening, with only very limited services running, MUCHELNEY, United Some 11,500 hectares of the leaving many Londoners unable Kingdom: It has been nearly Somerset Levels are under water to get to work and straining the five weeks since the tiny vil- following the wettest January in bus network. lage of Muchelney, which means southern England since 1910. The two leading rail unions, “great island” in Old English, Several other nearby villages are the Rail Maritime and Transport became marooned by the floods in semi-isolation, barricaded by (RMT) union and the Transport caused by record rainfall in sandbags for fear of rising water Salaried Staffs’ Association Britain. levels. (TSSA), called the strike to pro- The 150 inhabitants of the ham- Another 180 houses were test against plans to close ticket let in the heart of the Somerset flooded last weekend and emer- offices and cut nearly 1,000 jobs. Levels, a marshy plain in south- gency teams are on standby TfL, which runs the under- west England, are becoming sea- with more rain expected on ground network, says the planned soned sailors as they take to the Wednesday. closures would save nearly 50 mil- water to make contact with the With no obvious solution availa- lion pounds a year. outside world. ble, British Prime Minister David Another 48-hour strike is But in this historic area as Cameron’s government faces ris- planned for the following week, in the rest of the country, criti- ing anger from flood victims who Prince Charles speaks to members of the local community in the village of Stoke St Gregory on the Somerset from February 11 to 14. cism of the government’s emer- say it directs too many resources Levels in south west England yesterday. Tfl said it would try to keep as gency response is rising like the to urban problems at the expense many stations open as possible, floodwaters. of the rural population. Everyday tasks such as going brought something,” she added. lose in the end,” Colin Thorne, although the disruption was likely Heir to the throne Prince Environment minister Owen to work, dropping the children at “It brings people together.” professor of physical geography to force many employees to work Charles was visiting Muchelney Paterson received a hostile recep- school and food shopping suddenly But the fate of Muchelney at Nottingham University and a from home. yesterday to try to boost the spir- tion when he visited the area last became arduous chores requiring could be the shape of things to leading flood expert, recently told The prospect of travel chaos its of a suffering community. week. a life-jacket. come for rural Britain. the Daily Telegraph newspaper. dismayed many passengers “Prince Charles can’t change Muchelney, which sits on a “It takes two and half hours to The head of Britain’s But Muchelney resident Robin yesterday. anything, but people are pleased small protective hill, became get a pint of milk,” explained local Environment Agency, Chris Board said it was a “disgusting” that he’s coming,” said Catherine almost completely cut off follow- resident Nigel Smith. Smith, warned this week that way to treat the countryside. FDA to launch Denny, a retired school teacher, as ing heavy rains on January 3. With no relief in sight, the country may have to choose “I grew up here, there was she shows off the frescoes at the Since then, all access roads Catherine Denny expects villagers between whether to protect its always flooding but never as deep anti-tobacco drive village’s 10th century abbey. have been under water — up to to be holed up in their private fort towns or its countryside from and as long,” he said. “They haven’t The area is no stranger to flood two metres in places — and the for “long weeks” to come. flooding in the future. dredged for 20 years. They spent aimed at youth waters, which once thwarted only way in and out is by boat. “Everybody manages,” she said. He said that “building dams is £20 million on a bird sanctuary, but English Civil War leader Oliver Boats piloted by police or res- “There is a farm shop where you very expensive.” they haven’t the money to dredge. WASHINGTON: A major new Cromwell’s attempts to destroy cue workers follow the path of can get vegetables, bread and Cameron has promised £4m “They prefer birds to humans. anti-tobacco campaign will be its churches in the 17th century, the roads beneath the water. some meat, people can get out ($6.5m) to dredge river beds, but Everybody’s angry about it.” launched in the United States explained Denny. Beside one road, a grey car hastily on the boat and bring back some most experts believe it will not But his fellow villager Smith next week aimed at vulnerable “It does happen very often, but abandoned by its owner lies sub- food.” help. showed a more British stiff upper teenagers at risk of becoming this time it’s been very long,” she merged, a testament to the flood’s “We had a flood party in the “Retreat is the only sensible lip about the situation. addicted to cigarettes. added. destructive power. church on Sunday, where people policy, if we fight nature, we will AFP The $115m campaign, to be overseen by the Food and Drug Administration, will target the 10 million young people aged 12 to 17 who are open to trying cigarettes or who are already experiment- ing with them and are in danger England and Wales urge Scotland: Don’t leave us of becoming regular smokers, the FDA said. There were about 25 LONDON: Despite sporting the tabloid Sun newspaper found The latest YouGov poll of 5,161 us would have alone - this is com- continues to trump those sup- million children in that age group and historic rivalry, England slightly more English and Welsh English and Welsh adults con- mon sense,” Welsh First Minister porting a split but as the debate in 2012, according to US Census and Wales had one message for wanted Scots to go their own way ducted last month found only 24 Carwyn Jones said in a statement. heats up, more Scots are starting Bureau data. Scotland yesterday: Don’t leave us. than stay in the UK. percent now wanted Scotland to Scotland’s First Minister Alex to sway towards a Yes vote and a The campaign is the first of As debate over Scotland’s inde- The survey comes as polls north break away from the UK while 22 Salmond is leading the drive for large number remain uncertain. several scheduled to be launched pendence referendum heats up, of the border show a slight shift percent did not know. Scotland to split from the rest of This uncertainty and the over the next two years. The oth- an opinion poll showed a rising in opinion with rising support for The poll found opposition the UK, arguing that Scots will be Scottish National Party’s land- ers will be directed at rural, gay, number of English and Welsh separatists who have lagged pro- to Scottish independence was better off in charge of their own slide victory in Scottish elections African American, and American want Scotland to stay in the 307- unionists with about one third sup- strongest in the north of England finances. in 2011 has prompted British offi- Indian youth. year group forged by the Treaty of port since the independence vote where 55 percent of respondents But the YouGov poll found the cials to warn against complacency. The campaigns are expected the Union that created the United became a reality 18 months ago. favoured sticking with Scotland economy was not a key considera- A TNS BMRB poll released last to cost $400m altogether. They Kingdom of Great Britain. “Suddenly Scottish independ- and was weakest in London where tion for England and Wales, with 56 weekend showed support for inde- are being funded with fees paid to A YouGov poll found 54 percent ence has become a real consid- 50 percent opposed a breakaway. percent saying Scottish independ- pendence at 29 percent, up from the FDA by the tobacco industry want voters north of the border eration and people are taking this The British government is ence would make no real difference 26 percent in a similar November under a 2009 law that gives the to reject independence at a refer- more seriously and no longer just opposed to Scottish independence, or not make them worse off. Only 26 poll, while support for Scotland FDA authority to regulate ciga- endum on September 18. giving a flippant answer,” politi- saying both sides of the border ben- percent thought they would benefit. remaining part of the UK was rettes, cigarette tobacco and roll- This is a turnaround from cal analyst Anthony Wells from efit from the union. “The UK has The number of Scottish resi- steady at 42 percent your-own tobacco. three years ago when a poll for YouGov said. a stronger global voice than any of dents opposed to independence REUTERS AGENCIES

Obama hooks up new Britain’s anti-EU party school broadband plan suffers setback

ADELPHI, United States: will come in with $10m in grants LONDON: The UK backing gay marriage. In August President Barack Obama yes- to benefit rural schools. Independence Party, which last year, a UKIP lawmaker in the terday unveiled a new govern- The administration has also wants Britain to leave the European Parliament caused sim- ment partnership with the secured hundreds of millions of EU, suffered a setback ahead ilar outrage by describing some of private sector worth nearly dollars in investment from top of European elections after a the countries Britain sends aid to three billion dollars to hook up communications and Internet prominent party member con- as “bongo bongo land”. an extra 20 million school kids companies. firmed he had spent time in jail A spokeswoman for UKIP said to high speed Internet. Apple has pledged $100m to buy for being involved in a kidnap- Bhutto had not held the post of “In a country where we expect iPads and MacBook computers for ping in Pakistan. a formal spokesman and that he free Wifi with our coffee we disadvantaged schools. The scandal is the latest to had no responsibilities beyond should definitely demand it in AT&T will pay more than buffet UKIP, which opinion that of a normal member. our schools,” Obama said, unveil- $100m to offer Internet connec- polls show is on course to beat UKIP said Bhutto had pre- ing the latest prong of his “oppor- tivity to selected middle school Prime Minister David Cameron’s viously been a member of the tunity agenda” in a Washington students. Conservative party in May elec- Conservatives and had since suburb. Microsoft has pledged to offer tions for the European Parliament rejoined Cameron’s party. A The programme, a link up steep discounts on the cost of its and to split the centre-right vote Conservative spokesman said his with US firms including Verizon, Windows operating system. at a national election in 2015. application to become a member Sprint and Apple, fits into Sprint will come up with BBC TV reported on Monday had been rejected. Obama’s consistent push to another $100m to offer free night that Mujeeb ur Rehman The BBC reported that follow- improve education and to equip wireless to 50,000 low-income Bhutto, who had previously ing the kidnapping, Bhutto came young Americans with the tech- high school students for four appeared on television as a UKIP to Manchester in the north of nological skills needed to compete years. spokesman, was the former leader England to collect a 56,000 pound in an increasingly competitive Verizon will meanwhile put of a gang in Pakistan which was ($91,500) ransom payment, which global market. up $100m in cash to support the behind a high-profile kidnapping was later found hidden under his But it is also Obama’s lat- Obama programme, known as in Karachi in 2004. bed in a house where he was stay- est attempt to show that with a ConnectED, which was launched “As soon as we were made ing in Leeds. “pen and a phone” he can wield last year. aware of allegations relating to Bhutto admitted conspiracy to presidential power to significant “Today the average school has this report we confronted him blackmail and was jailed for seven economic effect even though about the same Internet band- and he immediately resigned his years by a UK court in 2005. Republicans in Congress are width as the average American membership,” UKIP said in a Bhutto told the BBC he had squelching much of his second home,” Obama said. statement yesterday. admitted the charges against him term agenda. “But it serves 200 times as UKIP has been hit by a series of rather than risk being sent back The program will see the many people.” scandals involving the views and to Pakistan and hanged. Federal Communications The White House says the new background of its members. “The evidence which was Commission put down $2bn to effort will bring America close to Last month, one of its local brought against me was from connect 20 million more students giving 99 percent of schoolchil- councillors in England provoked Pakistan. The allegation was sim- to wireless broadband in their dren Internet access within five uproar when he said that recent ply because of political rivalry,” schools. years. US President Barack Obama visits a classroom at Buck Lodge Middle flooding across Britain was God’s the BBC quoted him as saying. The Department of Agriculture AFP School in Adelphi, Maryland, yesterday. punishment for parliament REUTERS WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 ASIA / PHILIPPINES www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 15 Thai opposition to challenge poll in court China pulls out of deal to buy 1.2m tonnes of rice

BANGKOK: Thailand’s oppo- unconstitutional means,” he said. of Yingluck clashed in north sition Democrat Party said it “In a separate petition, we Bangkok. Whatever the result, it will challenge a disputed week- will file for the dissolution of is unlikely to change the dysfunc- end ballot in court yesterday, (Yingluck’s) Puea Thai Party for tional status quo after eight years while the Election Commission announcing the state of emer- of polarisation and turmoil. probed possible campaigning gency which meant the election The Election Commission said irregularities in a drawn-out could not be held under normal it was looking into complaints on political conflict that showed no circumstances.” alleged abuse of authority by the sign of ending. Anti-government protesters government during Sunday’s vote. In a further blow for care- have been on the streets since It is due to meet today to dis- taker Prime Minister Yingluck November, saying Yingluck must cuss problems including the fail- Shinawatra, China pulled out of resign and make way for an ure to register candidates in 28 a deal to buy 1.2 million tonnes of appointed “people’s council.” electoral districts after protesters Thai rice amid a corruption probe, The protesters draw their sup- blockaded candidate registration the commerce minister said, add- port from Bangkok’s middle-class centres in December. ing to the financing problems of and elite, as well as the south. The Thailand’s anti-graft agency has a subsidy scheme that had helped Shinawatra power base is among accelerated an investigation into win her huge rural support. the mainly rural poor in the popu- Yingluck’s role as head of a rice The Democrats, who boycotted lous north and northeast. price-support scheme that has cost the election, will file two com- Yingluck imposed a state of taxpayers billions of dollars, leading plaints with the Constitutional emergency last month to try to to China cancelling the deal. Court, spokesman Chavanond control the protests, allowing secu- “China lacks confidence to Intarakomalyasut said. rity agencies to impose curfews, do business with us after the “The first regards the election declare areas off-limits and detain National Anti-Corruption directly. We will argue that the suspects without charge. Such Commission started investiga- election violated the constitution, measures have not been enforced. tions into the transparency of in particular article 68 which pro- Sunday’s election was gener- rice deals between Thailand and hibits people from undermining ally peaceful, with no repeat of China,” Commerce Minister An anti-government protester sits between tents at a protest site in downtown Bangkok yesterday. the constitutional monarchy and the chaos seen the previous day Niwatthamrong Bunsongphaisan trying to grab power through when supporters and opponents told reporters. REUTERS

Typhoon leaves six dead, 5,000 displaced Sri Lanka bars entry of US women’s rights official COLOMBO: Sri Lanka has said it was “regrettable” Colombo worsening human rights situa- investigator Stephen Rapp, women, and for greater political MANILA: The death toll refused a top US women’s rights had refused to grant Russell a visa tion, during her visit to the island. stirred controversy in Sri Lanka participation by women across Sri from Tropical Storm Basyang official entry to the country, for the planned visit this month. At the end of the two-day trip, last month by visiting a former Lanka,” the embassy spokesman has doubled to six and more just days after another senior “Ambassador Russell’s man- Biswal also said the US was wor- battleground. said. than 5,000 people were dis- envoy alleged Colombo’s rights date is to promote stability, peace, ried about a weakening of the rule There was no immediate com- Sri Lanka is under increasing placed and are staying in record was deteriorating, the and development by empowering of law and an increase in corrup- ment from Colombo over the international pressure to probe its evacuation centres. Three US embassy said yesterday. women politically, socially, and tion levels and impunity in Sri refusal to grant Russell a visa. own troops over allegations that new fatalities were recorded US ambassador at large for economically around the world,” Lanka since a 37-year conflict “The US will continue to raise they killed thousands of civilians in Cebu, according to a report women’s issues Catherine Russell the spokesman said. ended in May 2009. important issues related to gen- in the final stages of the war. by National Disaster Risk was due to visit Sri Lanka ahead The refusal came after Nisha Sri Lanka rejected the com- der based violence, the impact President Mahinda Rajapakse’s Reduction and Management of a UN Human Rights Council Biswal, US Assistant Secretary ments as “patently unfair” and that the conflict had on fami- government denies any civilians Council (NDRRMC) yester- meeting next month at which of State for South and Central accused Biswal of wanting to lies (particularly female headed were killed by its troops and has day. The latest victims include Colombo is due to face fresh cen- Asia, told reporters on Saturday believe the worst about the island. households), the need for greater rejected calls for an international Allan Cris Lisondra Degino, sure. A US embassy spokesman the US was concerned about the Another US envoy, war crimes economic empowerment by inquiry. AFP 14, of Samboan town who was buried in a landslide, while 65-year-old Anthony Garcia Young monks Collarte drowned in Bantayan and Vicente Paras Jayme, 5, of Compostela town, was electro- Philippine Congress probe cuted. Other fatalities reported previously were Cebu residents Jose Haji Aque Babatid, 22, who was electrocuted and Danny into China Sea row urged Tundag, 24, and Dionesio Paler, 66, who drowned in MANILA: Three partylist on the Conduct of Parties in the Southern Leyte. Five people congressmen have filed a reso- South China Sea,” legislators were reported missing after a lution, urging the House com- said. They also noted that the fish- motorboat sank off Camotes mittee on Foreign Affairs to ing rules do not outline penalties, Island. One of them was a find diplomatic and peaceful but the requirements are similar 25-year-old Korean. NDRRMC resolution to the brewing ter- to a 2004 national law that says said one-year-old Janice Bas ritorial dispute in the West boats entering Chinese territory Deiparine of Talisay City was Philippine Sea with China. without permission can have their injured after a fence collapsed Bayan Muna Reps Neri catch and fishing equipment seized on her. A total of 42,987 people Colminares and Carlos Isagani and face fines of up to $82,000. were affected in 181 barangays Zarate, and ACT Teachers The resolution states that the in Western Visayas, Central Antonio Tinio said the settlement country has territorial claims Visayas, Eastern Visayas and of the issue should be done without over parts of the Spratly group of Caraga regions. Of these, 5,646 the meddling of the United States. islands located within the coun- people are at 32 evacuation In House Resolution 671, try’s exclusive economic zone and centres. the lawmakers called on the continental shelf, as stipulated Buddhist monks walk inside a pagoda in Bagan, Myanmar, yesterday. The city is one of the Myanmar’s most Committee on Foreign Affairs in the UNCLOS, which stipu- treasured religious sites that attracts hundreds of visitors daily. 240 supporters to conduct an inquiry on China’s lates that the coastal state has New Sea Rules. They cited that “sovereign rights for the purpose killed: Zia on January 1, 2014, Hainan, a of exploring and exploiting, con- southern Chinese island prov- serving and managing the natu- DHAKA: Bangladesh ince, implemented new rules that ral resources, whether living or Pyongyang calls Abe ‘The Asian Hitler’ opposition leader Khaleda require foreign fishermen to seek non-living, of the waters” 200 Zia accused the government permission from Chinese regional nautical miles from its coast. yesterday of “state ter- authorities before venturing out They noted that the coastal SEOUL: North Korea yester- The editorial, “Is this the emer- claims to Korean island territory. rorism,” saying more than into the disputed West Philippines state will also have jurisdiction day denounced Japanese Prime gence of an Asian Hitler?” said It also took exception to Abe’s 240 of her supporters were Sea. over “the establishment and use Minister Shinzo Abe as an “Asian the Japanese premier was fuelling December visit to the Yasukuni killed in four weeks that They said the Department of of artificial islands, installations Hitler” intent on amassing mili- fears of North Korea’s missile and war shrine that honours Japan’s included last month’s con- Foreign Affairs issued a state- and structures; marine scientific tary power under the guise of nuclear threats in order to justify war dead including several high- troversial election. Zia, a ment saying the new Chinese research; and the protection and ensuring regional stability. his country’s military expansion. level officials executed for war two-time former premier who policy was a “gross violation” of preservation of the marine envi- The attack in an editorial car- “There is no difference between crimes after World War II. heads Bangladesh Nationalist the United Nation Convention on ronment.” HR 671 states that ried by the North’s official KCNA the fascist maniac Hitler, who The visit was widely con- Party, said security forces the Laws of the Sea, the inter- the “United States is using the news agency followed commen- waged battle against commu- demned by regional neighbours and ruling party activists national law that the Philippines heightening territorial disputes tary by the ruling party’s news- nists to justify another war, and South Korea and China as a slap were behind the killings and invoked in taking its dispute between the Philippines and paper Rodong Sinmun last month the reckless Abe who is using in the face of victims of Japan’s forced disappearance of her with China over Panatag Shoal China to justify increasing mili- that described Abe as a “milita- confrontation with North Korea wartime aggression. supporters. She said the (Scarborough Shoal) to the UN tary presence and interference in rist maniac” for trying to amend to justify Japan’s new militarist The North’s nuclear and missile incidents occurred between for arbitration in January last the Philippines and in Asia, con- Tokyo’s pacifist constitution. Abe ambitions,” it added. programmes are of long-stand- December 26 and January 27 year. tain and counter China’s growing said last month that Japan’s paci- North Korea repeatedly ing security concern to Japan, and included arrest of 29,262 “According to the DFA, China’s power and intensify US imperial- fist post-World War II constitution harangues Japan over its failure which is a member of the stalled supporters. AGENCIES new fishing rules are contrary ist plunder and hegemony.” that limits its military to self- to atone for its 1910-45 occupation six-party talks on Pyongyang’s to the spirit of the Declaration THE PHILIPPINE STAR defence, could be amended by 2020. of the Korean peninsula and for its nuclear ambitions. AFP Smuggling, fraud cost Philippine government $25.8bn in 2011 WASHINGTON: More than Asian archipelago nation illegally the country, said GFI econo- country from crime, corruption, about a fourth of all goods The report, based on trade $410bn in illicit money crossed in 2011, the most recent year for mist Brian LeBlanc, one of the and tax evasion, the report said. imported into the country were statistics data from the the borders of the Philippines which data was available. report’s authors. The Philippine Treasury has not reported to the customs International Monetary Fund, from 1960 to 2011, with cus- That was up from $22.9bn “This is mostly importers try- lost at least $19.3bn in tax rev- bureau. reflects conservative numbers toms fraud related to imported in 2010, marking back-to-back ing to avoid VAT taxes or import enue since 1990 due to customs Weak governance and ris- on illicit flows as it does not goods surging in recent years, years of record illicit inflows. tariffs,” LeBlanc said. “Customs duties evasion, GFI said. ing levels of corruption in the capture undocumented cash according to a study by a About $14.2bn of illicit inflows corruption is a huge issue in the “It is our view that trade- Philippines were aiding illicit and services, Cardamone said. US-based anti-graft watchdog was reported for 2009, the study Philippines,” he said. related fraud has reached an money flows, Cardamone said, The study was financed by the group released on Monday. said. Over the 42-year period, about epidemic proportion in the adding he hopes the study will Ford Foundation, a donor to GFI, Global Financial Integrity These illicit inflows are typi- $277.6bn was illegally transferred Philippines,” Tom Cardamone, spur the government to consider which also receives funding from (GFI) said a record high of cally the result of under-reported into the country, and $132.9bn managing director of GFI, told legislative and regulatory meas- governments and individuals. $25.8bn came into the Southeast merchandise that is shipped into in illicit funds went out of the reporters in Manila. He added ures to curb the illicit flows. REUTERS WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 16 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com PAKISTAN / AFGHANISTAN Karzai in secret talks with Taliban: NYT Afghan president keen to avoid signing security deal with Washington until after election

KABUL: Afghanistan’s the Times, in its report, said the time the secret talks report- top commanders at the White could pull all troops out after capital suggests secret talks with President Hamid Karzai has spokesman had confirmed contact edly began - Karzai announced House on Tuesday to discuss 2014, unless a deal is signed soon. Karzai have made little difference been holding secret talks with had been made and described the his intention to avoid signing a the future of the US mission in This would leave Afghanistan’s over their stated intention to step Taliban officials in the hope of past two months as positive. bilateral security deal with the Afghanistan. fledgling security forces to fight up attacks. persuading them to make peace Officials, however, told the United States until after a presi- Relations have deteriorated the Taliban insurgency alone and Monthly incidents in January with his government, the New paper the Taliban-initiated talks dential election in April. Karzai sharply over Karzai’s refusal to diplomats fear they would strug- were at the highest since 2008, York Times reported yesterday, had been fruitless so far, although has served two terms and cannot sign, sapping already scant sup- gle to cope without US financial according to security officials, citing unnamed Afghan and they may help explain Karzai’s run again. port for the war in Washington, and military support. and the trend has continued into Western officials. mounting public hostility to President Barack Obama, which has halved aid for civilian The Taliban have vowed to February, with two bombs going Karzai’s spokesman could not Washington. frustrated by Karzai’s refusal to assistance in the fiscal year 2014. derail the April 5 election and off in Kabul on Monday. be reached for comment. But In November - around the same sign the accord, was due to meet Washington has signalled it the recent spike in violence in the REUTERS

Anti-India protest Indian fisherman Provinces blame lack of legislation found dead in jail KARACHI: An Indian fisher- man arrested more than a year for failure to provide free education ago for straying into Pakistani waters died in prison in Karachi ISLAMABAD: After failing Interestingly Balochistan the age of 5 to 16 years are yet to yesterday after an illness, a sen- to provide free and compulsory Province where the education be enrolled. ior jail official said. education for all the children standards are even much below Keeping the existing education The man, named by jail officials aged between five and sixteen, than the other province has standards, the provincial gov- as Kishan and aged about 50, died the four provinces of Pakistan not even a regular minister for ernments should have declared in Landhi jail hospital, where he are taking refuge behind lack of education. emergency in the education sec- was being held with more than legislation. A recent study by Annual tor, however, none of the province 150 other Indian fishermen. Everyone has his own story to Status of Education Report 2013, has done legislation for the free India and Pakistan frequently tell that why, despite clear judg- which was conducted for tracking and compulsory education to all arrest fishermen for violating ments of the Supreme Court, the journey towards the Right to the children. territorial waters, though the education has not been made Education as contained in Article The report says that the acts Arabian Sea border is poorly compulsory. 25 A and its provincial and area are in place for the Islamabad defined and many fishing boats Education Minister for Khyber- enactments, presents the true Capital Territory (ICT) and lack the technology needed to be Pakhtunkhwa Muhammad Atif picture of educational standards Sindh; the draft rules are being certain of their precise location. believes that only legislation could in Pakistan. developed for ICT while in Sindh Many of them languish in jail not do the trick as it needed extra The report’s key finding include these are yet to be discussed. for years even after serving their resources to ensure quality educa- that 57 percent children in class Balochistan Compulsory and term, as poor diplomatic ties tion in the province. 5 cannot read sentences fluently Free Education Ordinance 2013 between the two arch-rivals mean Punjab Cabinet has recently in English. Similarly, 57 percent was notified on March 15, 2013. fulfilling official requirements can approved the bill to provide free of the total children enrolled in Its validity is yet to be established. take a long time. and compulsory education, how- the government schools study- The province of Khyber- “He was admitted at the jail ever, it is yet to be implemented. ing in class 5 cannot do two digit Pakhtunkhwa yet to enact the hospital for about a month com- The authorities in Sind’s division. legislation. The progress of plaining of a severe cough, vom- Education department are Not only this, 50 percent chil- implementation on Article 25 A iting, and pain in the abdomen,” hardly aware about the sub- dren cannot even read story flu- is slow since it was added to the Sunil Shah, the chief of Landhi ject as Secretary Education Dr ently in Urdu, Sindhi or Pashto Constitution in April 2010 under jail, said. AFP Fazalullah Pechuho said he has as well. The report further says the 18th Amendment. Pakistani youth hold placards as they shout anti-India slogans during a no information about the matter. that 21 percent children between INTERNEWS rally in Faisalabad yesterday to express solidarity with Kashmiris living in Indian-held Kashmir. Peace talks Shia rights leader shot ‘Stop making excuses for Taliban’ revive hopes of Taseers, Gilanis ISLAMABAD: Bilawal Bhutto The 25-year-old son of former Punjab. They all have more secu- dead in Peshawar Zardari, chairman of the premier Benazir Bhutto said the rity than I do. They have no LAHORE: The PML-N gov- Peoples Party, has launched a government’s inaction had been excuse.” ernment’s initiative to hold PESHAWAR: A prominent A correspondent at the hospi- scathing attack on his politi- disastrous, emboldening extrem- Imran Khan argues that stri- peace talks with the banned Shia leader was shot dead in tal said around a hundred Shias cal opponents who he said ists to target civilians, including dent rhetoric might endanger the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan Pakistan’s northwestern city gathered outside and chanted slo- must stop “making excuses” for Malala Yousufzai, the schoolgirl lives of his supporters and party has rekindled the hope of the of Peshawar yesterday, officials gans demanding the arrest of the Taliban violence. education activist who nearly activists. Bilawal has shown no families of Ali Haider Gilani said, sparking a protest outside attackers. Bilawal also accused Prime died in 2012 after being shot in such caution. and Shahbaz Taseer for their a hospital where his body was There has been no claim of Minister Nawaz Sharif and the head by a Taliban assassin. He is firmly against negotia- safe recovery. taken. responsibility so far. Tehreek-i-Insaf chief Imran Khan “This is why people like Malala tions with the Taliban, saying Ali Haider, son of former The killing comes just weeks “It looks like a sectarian tar- of “letting down the people” by become targets because the politi- the time has come for far-reach- prime minister Yousuf Raza after a Shia scholar was gunned get killing but the police are still not backing firm military action cians, or the so-called leaders of ing military operations against Gilani, was kidnapped by down in the same city. investigating the case,” Mukhtar against the Taliban. this country, can’t find the courage the TTP, particularly in North armed men in Multan just two “Haji Sardar Ali was shot dead said. “Perhaps they are suffering to speak out when a 16-year-old Waziristan. days before the May 11 election. in the morning in Kissa Khwani Scholar Allama Alim Al-Musvi from Stockholm Syndrome,” he girl could. If we all speak in one But he warned an operation Similarly, Shahbaz Taseer, bazaar,” senior police official was shot while walking to the said, referring to cases of hostages voice, they can’t kill us all,” he said. should be in cooperation with son of slain Punjab governor Faisal Mukhtar said. mosque in the same bazaar on who sympathise with or even Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said he Afghanistan, an unlikely propo- Salmaan Taseer, was kid- Ali headed the local branch of January 20. assist their captors. could speak out only because of sition given the distrust between napped by unidentified men in the Tehrik-e-Nafaz-e-Fiqah-e- There has been a rise in sec- “There is no reason why the the vast security operation that Kabul and Islamabad. Aug 2011 in Lahore’s Gulberg Jafaria, a Shia rights movement. tarian violence in Pakistan since national leaders, the so-called surrounds him at all times and “With Afghanistan there is no area. Zaheer ul Islam, the deputy several deadly clashes between leaders, should not speak out heavily restricts his travel. He point of us launching an operation The successive govern- commissioner of Peshawar, con- Sunni and Shiite Muslim groups against people who are mur- spends much of his time at his over here if they are just going ments of both the PPP and the firmed the incident. near the capital Islamabad in dering our citizens, murdering fortress-like family compound in to hop across the border and find PML-N have failed to recover “Haji Sardar Ali owner of a November. our armed forces and claiming Karachi. sanctuary over there,” he warned. the both young men who are general store in (the) bazaar. Pakistan is rife with sectarian responsibility.” “I have a lot of security - I lost “The ideal situation would be an believed to be kept by their He was going to his shop when clashes. Sunni militant groups The remarks are likely to fur- my mother to the Taliban because operation from both sides at the kidnappers in the areas bor- unknown gunmen shot him dead,” linked to Al Qaeda and the ther burnish his reputation as of a lack of security - and that same time.” dering Afghanistan. he said. Taliban often attack gatherings both a brash new arrival on the explains partly why I can be so Bilawal Bhutto said he was Ali was rushed to the city’s by Shiites, who make up some 20 country’s political scene, but also vocal,” he said. “But so does Imran exasperated by the government’s Karzai urged Lady Reading Hospital but was percent of the country’s mainly the most outspoken politician Khan. Nawaz Sharif is the prime decision last week to hold talks pronounced dead on arrival, Muslim population. on the issue of militancy and minister of Pakistan, Shahbaz with the Taliban. to reject bill Mukhtar said. AFP extremism. Sharif is the chief minister of INTERNEWS KABUL: An international rights group said yester- Donkey race day that Afghan President Hamid Karzai should refuse to sign a law passed by par- Permanent squad planned liament that would deny women protection from domestic violence and forced to stop encroachments marriage. Afghanistan’s parliament, LAHORE: As complaints of facilitated and supported by shop a two-chamber house domi- re-encroachment on several keepers in every market. nated by conservative clerics parts of the city started pour- In a crackdown, only those con- and former Islamist warlords, ing in within days of an anti- ducting businesses on public land passed a “criminal procedure encroachment operation, the are fined, they said. law” last year which experts city district government of Soon after such an operation say contains articles that deny Lahore has started considering ends, the encroachers set up busi- women legal protections. a plan to establish a permanent ness at new locations while shop New York-based Human anti-encroachment squad, it keepers accommodate more ven- Rights Watch said the bill “is was learnt. dors in front of their shops. expected to be sent to Karzai The government had launched These vendors pay these shop for final signature into law a crackdown on encroachments in keepers rent, the town municipal within weeks, if not earlier” the city last month. This was not officers said. and called on the war-torn the first time an anti-encroach- Staff Officer to the DCO Tariq nation’s leader to send the ment operation was launched. In Zaman said shop keepers caught bill back to legislators with fact, similar drives are conducted facilitating encroachers will not amendments. twice a year. be fined but their shops could also “President Karzai should However, the problem per- be sealed if required. reject a law that will effec- sists despite repeated campaigns He said there was legislation tively let batterers of women against it. covering the matter. and girls off the hook,” Human The government has decided to District Coordination Officer Rights Watch said in a state- not only fine the encroachers, but Ahmad Javeed Qazi said the gov- ment, quoting its Asia director also the people facilitating them. ernment was working on a pro- Brad Adams. Several town municipal officers posal for a permanent squad. AGENCIES Pakistani donkey carters participate in a race during the Sindh Festival in Karachi yesterday. have said that encroachments are INTERNEWS WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 INDIA www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 17

EC appoints Sachin, Rao conferred Bharat Ratna observers Cricket legend is the first sportsperson and the youngest recipient of the award for RS polls NEW DELHI: Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and eminent NEW DELHI: The Election scientist C N R Rao were yester- Commission of India has day conferred the Bharat Ratna, appointed special observers India’s highest civilian award, for the biennial Rajya Sabha by President Pranab Mukherjee elections in Andhra Pradesh, at a glittering ceremony at the Assam, Odisha, and West Rashtrapati Bhavan here. Bengal on February 7, a state- The two joined the list of 41 ment said. “The duties of the eminent personalities who have special observers will be to been given the Bharat Ratna in keep a watch on electoral recognition of their contribution malpractices including role of to society. money power. In case specific Tendulkar, 40, nominated complaints are received, the to the Rajya Sabha last year, is same will promptly be looked the first sportsperson and the into,” the Commission said. youngest recipient of the award. “The observers will also keep He was accompanied by his wife constant watch on the news Anjali and daughter Sara to the and media reports related to ceremony. biennial election. In case of Rao, 79, is the fourth scientist any electoral malpractices, after C V Raman, M Visvesvaraya the same will be brought to and former president A P J Abdul the notice of the Commission,” Kalam to get the Bharat Ratna. it added. The Chief Electoral It was a brief ceremony that Officer (CEO) of Gujarat has lasted six-and-a-half minutes. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar (left) and eminent scientist C N R Rao receiving the ‘Bharat Ratna’ award from President Pranab Mukherjee during an been appointed the special Mukherjee entered the historic awarding ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi yesterday. observer for Andhra Pradesh Durbar Hall at exactly 12 noon to and the Tripura CEO will look honour Rao and Tendulkar. “This is the biggest honour. 463 ODIs with an average of best. I will cherish this award the Research, which he founded in after Assam. Karnataka’s CEO Prime Miister Manmohan Extremely delighted at getting 44.83 including 49 centuries. most in my life,” Rao said. 1989. He was appointed chair- will be the observer in Odisha Singh, his wife Gursharan Kaur, this award. I want to reiterate He was also the first to score a Rao feels that India is perform- man of the Scientific Advisory and Uttar Pradesh’s CEO is Vice-President Hamid Ansari, again that I want to dedicate this double hundred in the 50-over ing well in the field of science but Council to the Prime Minister in West Bengal’s observer. UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi award to my mother and all other format. Tendulkar quit the one- other majors like China and South January 2005. He is also the direc- and ministers Sushil Kumar mothers of India who sacrificed day form of cricket in 2012 and Korea are doing better. tor of the International Centre for Govt sets up 7th Shinde, A K Antony, Mallikarjun their aspirations so that their Tests last year. “We are doing good but others Materials Science. Kharge and Rajiv Shukla were children’s dreams come true,” said Rao is known for his work in like China and South Korea are The government last year pay commission also present. Tendulkar. solid state and structural chem- doing better. We are also invest- changed the nomination crite- NEW DELHI: The govern- Tendulkar dedicated the hon- Tendulkar ended his illustri- istry. “Well, this is fantastic, my ing a lot of money in the area of ria for Bharat Ratna to include ment yesterday announced our to his mother and all moth- ous career with a fair clutch of own country has given me this scientific research but a lot more sportspersons. Legendary hockey setting up of the Seventh ers of the country who sacrificed records. He has 15,921 runs from award. This is a big thing. I have needs to be done,” he said. player Dhyan Chand was also Central Pay Commission their personal aspirations so that a record 200 Test matches at an been a professor of science for Rao is the honorary president recommended for the award but under the chairmanship of the dreams of their children are average of 53.58 and 51 centuries. 55 years and I have got so many of Bangalore’s Jawaharlal Nehru Tendulkar was chosen. retired Supreme Court judge realised. He scored 18,426 runs from awards in the past but this is the Centre for Advanced Scientific IANS Ashok Kumar Mathur to review the salaries of over 5 million employees. The panel will submit its report in two Cold wave in Kashmir years and the recommenda- tions would be implemented from January 1, 2016, a finance GoM clears draft ministry statement said. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has approved the com- position of the Commission Telangana bill that has one full-time and one part-time member, besides the chairman, the state- NEW DELHI: A Group of by parliament. “There is impor- ment added. Petroleum and Ministers (GoM) yesterday tant legislation relating to anti- Natural Gas Secretary Vivek cleared the draft Telangana bill corruption measures. There is Rae has been appointed a full- which would be placed before important legislation with regard time member, while National the union cabinet even as Prime to women’s reservation bill. There Institute of Public Finance and Minister Manmohan Singh is important business concern- Policy director Rathin Roy is expressed hope that parliament ing the control of communal vio- a part- time member. Meena will approve bills to reorganise lence,” he said. Agarwal, an officer on special Andhra Pradesh and anti-cor- “I sincerely hope that parlia- duty in the finance minis- ruption measures during its ses- ment, in its wisdom, will transact try’s expenditure department, sion beginning on February 5. the essential business which is the has been appointed the The GoM cleared the draft leg- primary concern of any legisla- Commission’s secretary. islation to be placed before the ture in a parliamentary democ- union cabinet on Thursday to pave racy. And, of course, there is the Another man held the way for its tabling in parlia- vital issue of Telangana”. A ragpicker warms her hands on an earthen oven in Srinagar yesterday. Kashmir continues to experience ment despite the Andhra Pradesh The prime minister said the in Delhi heist case cold wave from previous days and the meteorological department has predicted wet weather until February 7. assembly’s rejection of the bill. United Progressive Alliance NEW DELHI: With the “The GoM has cleared the (UPA) government wants to bring arrest of another man for his draft Telangana bill. It will be the Telangana bill in parliament involvement in the Rs7.69- placed before the union cabinet for its approval. “I sincerely hope crore heist here, six people in the next meeting. The bill will that after a long debate extending have been held so far while be tabled in parliament,” union over many years, the house will, in three suspects are abscond- Health Minister Ghulam Nabi its wisdom, be able to transact the ing, police said. The latest Encourage children: Kalam Azad, who is a member of the business and pass the bill relat- to be arrested is Joginder GoM, told reporters. ing to the creation of the state of alias Johny, who is around 25 JAMMU: The capabilities of be identified and encouraged. Kalam stressed that the crea- A comprehensive bill will be now Telangana,” he added. years, and was arrested late children should be identified “Children have hard-wired tivity of children should be har- be brought before the cabinet and The parliament session will on Monday from Burari area and encouraged so as to have a ability to be creative, imagina- nessed so as to “move towards an suggestions will be incorporated begin today and end on February of north Delhi. “He is the one new breed of innovative think- tive and innovative that often impatient India”. after discussions. Following the 21. The prime minister’s remarks who was driving the Wagon ers, said former president A P diminishes along the way. These “In the ever-changing 21st cabinet’s nod, the legislation will assume significance as Andhra R that intercepted the Honda J Abdul Kalam here yesterday. inherent capabilities have to be Century life, everything demands be sent to the president for his Pradesh Chief Minister Kiran City (in which the money was “Every youth wants to be identified and encouraged to out of the box thinking. It is approval before being taken up by Kumar Reddy, who is opposed to being carried). Of the Rs28 unique, that is, you. But the world have a new breed of innovative education that should focus on parliament, probably next week. the division of the state, is plan- lakh that he got as his share of around you is doing its best to thinkers, and are more prepared fostering innovation by putting The move comes days after ning to meet President Pranab the loot, we’ve recovered Rs26 make you ‘everybody else’. The to solve future challenges of our curiosity, critical thinking, deep the Andhra Pradesh Assembly Mukherjee on the issue. The lakh,” a police officer said. challenge is that you have to fight world,” Kalam said. understanding, the rules and tools rejected the bill by voice vote. Andhra chief minister is in Delhi. the hardest battle, and never stop Addressing enthusiastic chil- of inquiry, and creative brain- Speaking to reporters after an Manmohan Singh also met a Spurt in HIV until you arrive at your destined dren from various schools across storming at the center of the cur- all-party meet ahead of the parlia- delegation of Telangana Rashtra place, that is, a unique you,” said the state under a packed make- riculum,” said Kalam. ment session, the prime minister Samithi (TRS) leaders and cases in Kerala Kalam while inaugurating the shift canopy, Kalam said a higher The session, said many stu- expressed hope that parliament appealed to them that the bifur- THIRUVANANTHA- Children Science Congress at number of creative minds in the dent attendees, left them feeling will approve the Telangana bill and cation of Andhra Pradesh “should PURAM: Kerala has seen an the ongoing 101st Indian Science country will result in better “inspired” and “enthusiastic”. anti-corruption bills during its ses- be peaceful”. “Nothing should be increase in the number of HIV Congress here. innovation. At the session, Kalam also sion beginning on February 5. said or done that can inflame positive cases, a minister said Kalam, who shared his thoughts “India should look for young, gave out the Infosys ISCA Travel “This is going to be the last passions. I appeal to all that the yesterday. Health Minister on the subject ‘Innovation innovative minds, rather than old, Awards to five students from session of the 15th Lok Sabha. bifurcation process should be V S Sivakumar informed the Empowers the Nation’, added that experienced ones,” said Kalam across India. There is important legislation peaceful,” the prime minister said. Kerala assembly that in the the capabilities of children should who got a thunderous applause. IANS which is pending for approval IANS past decade, the last fiscal saw the highest increase of fresh HIV positive cases in the state. “If one looks into the figures of new HIV cases starting from the fiscal 2004- 05, 440 cases was registered Supreme Court reserves verdict on Rajiv assassins’ plea then and the last fiscal saw 1,766 cases. During the 2011- NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court yes- petitions were pending with the president. Wondering why the three require the they were not talking about it but on the 12 fiscal, 1,680 new cases was terday reserved its verdict on the plea of Attorney General G E Vahanvati told intervention of the apex court on the question of delay in deciding the mercy there. This fiscal till the end of three assassins of former prime minis- a bench of Chief Justice P Sathasivam, grounds of torture and dehumanised life, petition by the president. On the delay of December last year 1,177 new ter Rajiv Gandhi seeking commutation Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Shiva Vahanvati said that in their mercy petition 11 long years in deciding the mercy petition, cases was registered,” said of their death sentence to life imprison- Kirti Singh that the petition was not cov- filed April 26, 2000, there was not even an he said: “I am not covering up the delay... the minister. He also said at ment on the grounds of inordinate delay ered by its January 21 verdict that said iota of remorse for their action of killing will show what had happened.” present there are 17,593 HIV — of nearly 11 years — in deciding their that inordinate, unexplained, unreasonable the former prime minister and they even He said the mercy petition was filed April positive patients in the state mercy petitions. The government has delay was a ground for commuting death justified it. 26, 2000, it remained in the drawer of an and those who are undergoing opposed the plea. sentence into life imprisonment. He said that this absence of remorse officer in the home ministry for four years the treatment stands at 8,525. Responding to the plea by the three All through these 11 years, the three assas- assumes serious connotation because their until a senior officer inquired about it. “For Palakkad leads with 1,381 convicts — V Sriharan alias Murugan, sins were living a full life by holding music mercy petition to the president was made four years it keeps lying in the drawer of an patients and the capital dis- Perarivalan and Santhan — the govern- shows, art exhibitions and other recreational soon after their similar plea was rejected officer. It is a sad reflection on the state of trict accounts for 898 patients ment urged the court to reject them, saying activities in the jail, he said. At this, Chief by the Tamil Nadu governor. affairs. As soon as the file was retrieved in who are under treatment. that they suffered no agony or dehumaniza- Justice Sathasivam observed: “This shows As Vahanvati spoke about the content 2004, a note was prepared,” he said. IANS tion during the 11 years when their mercy they were not hardened criminals.” of the mercy petitions, the court said that IANS WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 18 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com INDIA End row over Basant Panchami marines, Italy PM tells India Delay in settlement of case deplored

BY MOHAMMAD SHOEB According to reports, Staffan de Mistura, a special Italian DOHA: The Prime Minister of envoy who flew to New Delhi on Italy, Enrico Letta, on Monday Sunday, deplored the delay in the warned India that the case settlement of the dispute and also against two Italian marines warned that any further delay is must come to an end quickly very likely to damage the bilateral as Italy cannot continue to relations. wait further without any final The Supreme Court on Monday results about it. ordered the government to decide “The dispute with India involv- within a week whether it will ing the two Italian marines is a invoke a severe anti-piracy law very very serious affair for us,” against the Italian marines. said Letta. “We have decided to India’s home ministry has follow this issue with a very seri- entrusted the probe to an anti- ous approach because it is impos- terror agency. Italy has said the sible for us to wait for two long case should be investigated by years, as we are doing. However, it police. Rome has raised objections cannot go continued without any to the agency’s plan to invoke news about it.” maritime laws, which carry a A 12- year-old carries bricks with his teeth during Basant Panchami (Fesival of Spring) Mela at the Sikh Shrine Gurudwara Chheharta Sahib on the Letta made the remarks in maximum penalty of death. outskirts of Amritsar yesterday. RIGHT: Young Sikhs demonstrate the Gatka martial arts skills at the festival. reply to a question on the issue But according to the latest at a press conference held here developments in New Delhi, the to announce the outcomes of his marines may escape death sen- two-day official visit to Qatar. tence with the India’s home min- The Italian premier said: “We istry yesterday agreeing not to are waiting for the Supreme push for the capital punishment Court decision. If nothing comes against the duo. UK admits ‘limited’ role in Operation Bluestar out, we would send a new and The ministry conveyed this final message asking India to view to India’s Attorney General LONDON/NEW DELHI: matter” since it surfaced more Operation Blue Star, and whether drawing up for operations against come to the table with papers to (AG), G E Vahanvati during a British Foreign Secretary than two weeks ago. He said parliament was misled.” armed dissidents in the temple end the dispute.” meeting in New Delhi. Vahanvati William Hague yesterday con- Britain has also “shared the out- According to Hague, the inves- complex, including ground recon- The dispute between Italy and is expected to give his opinion firmed that Britain had advised come of the UK government’s tigation found that the British naissance of the site,” he said. India began in February 15, 2012, shortly, highly-placed sources told the then Indian government enquiry with us. We have noted government in February 1984 did “The adviser’s assessment made when the two Italian marines a news agency. ahead of the June 1984 storm- the report and the statement receive an “urgent request (from clear that a military operation — Massimiliano Latorre and According to PTI, India’s lead- ing of the Golden Temple by the made”. the then Indian government) should only be put into effect as Salvatore Girone — stationed on ing news agency, the home min- Indian army but clarified that it Hague observed that two to provide operational advice a last resort, when all attempts at the merchant ship Enrica Lexie istry is of the opinion that the had no operational involvement papers released on January 13 on Indian contingency plans for negotiation had failed. It recom- off the coast of Kerala, fired on a marines should be tried under in Operation Bluestar. this year to the public by the action to regain control of the mended including in any opera- fishing boat that the marines wor- anti-terrorism Suppression of Making a statement in the National Archives raised specula- temple complex”. After getting tion an element of surprise and ried might be filled with pirates. Unlawful Acts against safety of British parliament, Hague tions about Britain’s involvement the green signal from the British the use of helicopter-borne forces, The marines argued that they had Maritime Navigation and Fixed cited the report filed by the in Operation Blue Star. high commission in New Delhi, in the interests of reducing casu- fired warning shots that did not Platforms on Continental Shelf British cabinet secretary fol- He said: “Within hours of the the British government sent a alties and bringing about a swift strike the boat. Act but the provision for death lowing instructions from Prime documents coming to light, the military adviser to India. resolution.” But after few hours, a fishing penalty should not be invoked. Minister David Cameron to prime minister instructed the “He (the cabinet secretary) has Hague said that after the boat brought two dead men, Ajesh Notably, the home ministry’s investigate the matter. cabinet secretary to carry out established that a single British British military adviser’s visit in Binki and Gelastine, who had just view is in consonance with the The Indian external affairs an urgent investigation in four military adviser travelled to February, the Indian Army took one name. The Enrica Lexie was commitment given by India to Italy ministry spokesperson Syed critical areas: Why advice was India between Feb 8 and 17, 1984, over lead responsibility for the brought to Kochi, a west coast that provisions for death penalty Akbaruddin said in New Delhi provided to the Indian authori- to advise the Indian intelligence operation and the main concept Indian port, and Latorre and will not be invoked against them. that the British government has ties, what was the nature of that services and special group on behind the operation changed. Girone were arrested. THE PENINSULA kept India “informed on this advice, what impact it had on contingency plans that they were IANS

World Cancer Day BJP banking on Call for judicial probe Modi magic in West Bengal into student’s death NEW DELHI: As protests parts of the country like the KOLKATA: Traditionally con- continued yesterday over the northeast are as much a part of sidered weak in West Bengal, death of an Arunachal Pradesh the city as anyone else. the BJP is heavily banking on student, President Pranab “All citizens need to work its prime ministerial nominee Mukherjee and Prime Minister together to ensure that our broth- Narendra Modi — scheduled to Manmohan Singh condemned ers and sisters from northeast feel address a rally at the Brigade the attack while Delhi Chief safe and secure in Delhi,” he said. Parade Grounds today — for a Minister Arvind Kejriwal Joining the protesters from turnaround in the state. joined the demonstrators at the the northeast at Jantar Mantar, Coming only days after city centre. Kejriwal assured them speedy Trinamool Congress supremo A delegation of northeast lead- justice in the case. “The magiste- Mamata Banerjee launched her ers and activists also met Home rial enquiry will be over within poll drive from the same venue, the Minister Sushilkumar Shinde 3-4 weeks and the truth will be BJP too will kick-start its general and demanded a judicial probe revealed. If the policemen are also elections campaign in the state and into the matter and a law against involved, we will come to know is expecting a crowd in excess of racism. that too,” he said at the protest five lakh. In a related development, a site where demonstration has The party which historically has Delhi court sent the three men — been on since Sunday. nothing much to show in terms of Sunder Singh, Pawan Farmania The chief minister said that seats from the state, is hoping for and Farman — arrested in con- magisterial enquiry ordered by the A child plays with balloons during a World Cancer Day event at the Tata Memorial hospital in Mumbai yesterday. a turnaround riding on the “Modi nection with Nido Tania’s death Delhi government was important wave” coupled with the anti- to judicial custody till February 18. as police could have “hushed up” incumbency factor against the Expressing “deep sorrow” the case. “Nido’s fight is the fight Congress-led UPA at the Centre. and “concern” at Tania’s death, of every Delhiite. It’s the fight of The party bagged a solitary President Pranab Mukherjee in every countrymen. We all have to seat in 1998 and doubled its tally a statement asked all citizens to unite to punish the culprits. I am in the next elections in 1999. “work hard” to strengthen the extremely upset by knowing that 2G case: AAP alleges cover-up However, in the last elections “bonds of friendship and amity” the FIR (first information report in 2009, the party managed only amongst diverse communities. into the incident) was filed two NEW DELHI: Delhi’s ruling then a part of the Congress-led Meanwhile, the Tata Group, the Darjeeling constituency when Condemning the violence which days after the incident. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) yes- government. A livid Karunanidhi which Bhushan named, said: Jaswant Singh — backed by the preceded Tania’s death, Mukherjee “This means that if you terday claimed fresh evidence dismissed the latest allegations “Allegations that are being made Gorkha Janmukti Morcha which called upon law enforcement agen- (protestors) had not united, the has emerged in the second gen- as “lies”. “It is all lies,” he said in against Tata companies have holds sway in the region — came cies to make every effort to bring FIR would not have been filed. eration (2G) spectrum alloca- Chennai. been repeatedly looked into and up trumps. the guilty to justice and ensure the This is very strange. This is our tion case and said it will move Pressed for more, the veteran investigated by the authorities From hosting regular road safety and security of all who live fundamental right,” he said. the Supreme Court. politician told the media: “You are concerned. shows to workers and supporters in the capital city. “We want this place to be safe Party leader and advocate all reporters. Why don’t you ask “These have found that the organising runs and walks sport- Terming the attack on 19-year- for women and northeastern Prashant Bhushan released four (Chief Minister J) Jayalalithaa conduct of Tata entities have ing Modi masks, to online selling old Tania, son of Arunachal people,” said Kejriwal, who was of what he said were taped tel- about her disproportionate assets been above board. We reiterate of seats, the BJP has been using Pradesh legislator Nido Pavitra, as accompanied by his cabinet col- ephonic conversations of some of case? You don’t ask her questions. that the business transactions novel ways to drum up support “most condemnable”, Manmohan league Manish Sisodia. the key stakeholders, throwing But you only ask me.” of Tata companies are bonafide for the mega rally. Singh said “every possible effort” Tania died last week after he more light on the 2G case. The AAP leader released tran- and in line with the Group’s Code Besides using the social media would be made to punish the guilty. was beaten up by shopkeepers in This, he said, needed to be thor- scripts of the tapes of alleged of Conduct and commitment to platform, party workers have In a statement, the prime a south Delhi market following a oughly probed. He also released telephonic conversations involv- ethical standards,” a Tata Sons been distributing specially made minister said: “The attack on quarrel over his appearance and what he claimed was a handwrit- ing Karunanidhi’s daughter spokesperson said in a statement. “NaMo sweets” while a NaMo Nido Tania, the student from clothing. He died in a hospital Jan ten letter by a top industrialist to Kanimozhi, Karunanidhi’s aide M. The Central Bureau of Jalrath vessel was launched to Arunachal Pradesh, is most 30. The victim’s friends say it was then Tamil Nadu chief minister Shanmuganathan, police officer Investigation (CBI) has framed promote the event. As the Gujarat condemnable. While the actual a racial attack. and DMK leader M. Karunanidhi Jaffer Sait and Sharad Kumar of corruption and other charges chief minister had started off as a cause of Nido Tania’s death will Various organisations and which he said further added to Kalaignar TV. The transcripts against 17 accused in the spectrum tea vendor, nearly 100 “NaMo tea be known only after the autopsy students from the northeastern the evidence of alleged misdoings. and letter released by Bhushan case, including former telecom stalls” have come up across West report is received, the violence states, demanding justice over Bhushan alleged that a major appeared to show that Karunanidhi minister A. Raja and Kanimozhi, Bengal offering the brew to the which preceded his demise is Tania’s killing, have been holding cover-up was attempted by was aware of all the dealings that a DMK Rajya Sabha member. common man at nominal rates. tragic and shameful.” protests in the city. Karunanidhi, whose party was took place, Bhushan said. IANS IANS He also said people from other IANS

Wednesday 5 February 2014 5 Rabial II 1435 Volume 18 Number 5966 Price: QR2

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Alwaseeta, QKLC ink pact for LED project LED manufacturing and chip packaging units planned

DOHA: Qatar Intermediate parties will set up the Qatar- development and remarkable Industries Co Ltd (Alwaseeta) Korea LED Project (Q-LED), an growth in various sectors, includ- yesterday signed a joint venture LED manufacturing facility that ing the construction sector, which agreement with the Qatar Korea will be jointly owned by Alwaseeta is witnessing a rapidly growing LED Consortium (QKLC) for with 75 percent interest and demand for LED lighting. the establishment of a manufac- QKLC with 25 percent interest. This agreement will aid Qatar’s turing facility for light-emitting The factory will occupy an area strategic approach to develop- diode (LED) lighting systems in of 60,000 square meters, and it ing investment projects across Qatar. will have an initial production a range of vital sectors, and will The agreement was signed capacity of 155,000 LED units per also help deliver explosion-proof by the Minister of Energy and year. The project will be imple- LED lighting for the oil and gas Industry and Chairman of the mented in two phases, with the industry, and special LED light- Board of Directors of Alwaseeta, LED manufacturing plant to ing for commercial use, such as H E Dr Mohamed bin Saleh Al be built in the initial phase and for street and stadium lighting, Sada, and Dr Tai-Kyoo Kim, scheduled for completion by 2016. traffic signals, and so on.” Chairman of QKLC. Also present This will be followed by the “This LED project will also during the signing ceremony second phase, which will involve establish stringent specifications H E Dr Mohamed bin Saleh Al Sada and Dr Tai-Kyoo Kim, Chairman of QKLC, signing the agreement. were Ali Hassan Al Sidiky, Vice- installing LED chip packaging, that are specially designed for Chairman and Managing Director establishing a state-of-the-art the climate in the Mena region, ventures on a solid foundation, The Q-LED Project will be 70-80 percent in energy savings of Alwaseeta, and other senior Research & Development Centre, and we will aim at continuous which is a win-win situation for involved in continuous research compared to conventional light- officials from both parties. and subsequently setting up a improvement and development both Alwaseeta and QKLC. It and development (R&D) in inte- ing, such as incandescent and flu- Alwaseeta is a subsidiary of demonstration centre for simu- of specifications and products will also pave the way for broader grated LED management and orescent lights. In addition, they Qatar Petroleum. QKLC, on the lating real-time conditions. The through research and develop- investment opportunities and for solution systems. These systems will contribute to a substantial other hand, is made up of promi- project’s final phase is expected ment,” he added. developing the local and regional will provide more convenience reduction of CO2 emission as a nent Korean LED companies and to be completed by 2018. Dr Tai-Kyoo Kim, Chairman LED industry, which will be an and smart management control result of reducing power produc- governmental institutes. Dr Al Sada commented: of QKLC said: “This agreement important contributor to Qatar’s to customers. tion from power plants. Under the agreement, the two “Qatar is witnessing dynamic will see the building of joint vibrant economy.” They can also result in up to THE PENINSULA Qatar to spend Qatargas signs LNG deal up to $205bn on with Tohoku Electric infrastructure: QNB MANAMA: Qatar plans to DOHA: Qatargas Operating agreement as another contribu- spend as much as $205bn on Company Limited (Qatargas) tion towards global energy secu- infrastructure between 2013 announced yesterday that Qatar rity. “This agreement reinforces and 2018, the acting head Liquefied Gas Company Limited our strong relationship with one of project finance at Qatar 3 (Qatargas 3) has entered of Qatargas’ foundation custom- National Bank (QNB) said yes- into a new long term LNG ers and demonstrates our con- terday, as the country invests Sale and Purchase Agreement tinued commitment to long-term its vast hydrocarbon wealth in (SPA) with Tohoku Electric LNG supplies to Japan. a development boom. Power Company, Incorporated “As the largest LNG producing The Gulf Arab state is spend- (Tohoku Electric). company in the world, Qatargas ing billions of dollars in areas The agreement was signed is committed to providing reli- such as transport, electricity and by the Minister of Energy able energy supplies to all four water generation and housing, in and Industry and Chairman corners of the world,” Dr Al Sada an effort to improve its economy of the Board of Qatargas 3, H said. and build towards its hosting of E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Khalid bin Khalifa Al Thani, the 2022 soccer World Cup. Al Sada, and Makoto Kaiwa, Qatargas Chief Executive Officer Much of the planned infrastruc- Representative Director and said: “Today, we have achieved a ture spending will be financed by President of Tohoku Electric. significant milestone in our excel- the government level. But signifi- Under the terms of the SPA, lent partnership with Tohoku cant funding still needs to come Qatargas 3 will deliver LNG to Electric, which started in 1994 from both local and international Tohoku Electric for a period of 15 when we signed an agreement lenders, said Yusuf Saeed, acting years starting from 2016, build- with a consortium of Japanese head of global structured finance ing up to a plateau volume of 0.18 buyers including Tohoku Electric, at QNB. million tonnes per annum (mtpa) a Qatargas press release said “For large projects, what we’re from 2019 onwards. yesterday. seeing is you have conventional The LNG will be supplied from Tohoku Electric is one of the financing and Islamic financing Qatargas 3 (Train 6), a joint ven- original eight Japanese buy- and options for export credit agen- ture between Qatar Petroleum, ers which signed contracts with cies,” Saeed told an infrastructure ConocoPhillips and Mitsui & the Qatargas 1 joint venture in finance conference in the capital Co Ltd, which started produc- 1994. In December 2007, Tohoku of neighbouring Bahrain, when he tion in January 2010, and will be Electric became the first Japanese was asked about funding for a pair delivered on board Q-Flex LNG utility company to receive a cargo of petrochemical plants that will vessels. of LNG on-board a Q-Flex vessel. cost around $13.5bn. Dr Al Sada welcomed the QNA REUTERS

QNB launches investment product

DOHA: Qatar National Bank performance will be measured on (France-Energy), Vinci (France- (QNB) yesterday announced the an annual basis and will be paid Industrials), Siemens (Germany- launch of QNB Note 2 aimed at in the form of annual coupons, Industrials), ArcelorMittal enabling foreign investors to linked to the average perform- (Netherlands-Materials), enter Qatar in a big way. ance of the basket of stocks and Iberdrola (Spain-Utilities), Royal QNB Note 2 is a 100 percent the annual performance of each Dutch Shell Plc (UK-Energy), Capital-Protected Structured individual stock is capped at 7 ConocoPhillips (US-Energy) and Notes Investment Portfolio with percent. Halliburton Co (US-Energy). investment returns linked to the The eight international compa- QNB Note 2 will be available performance of a basket of eight nies which form the investment to investors via all QNB branches international (European and US) basket have been selected on the in Qatar. The subscription period company stocks, which are listed basis of their existing close ties to will commence on 4 February 2014 on the equity markets of their Qatar: either due to their exist- and investments will be accepted respective countries of origin. ing local presence or due to sub- for a period of one month, ending QNB Note has the following stantial business interests in the on 5 March 2014. features. Returns are linked to country. A further aim is to pro- This investment opportunity is the performance of eight equally- vide satisfactory geographically available both to Qatari and non- weighted international stocks, diversification. Qatari investors, living in Qatar a closed 3-year investment, The eight international or overseas. with a maturity date of 2017, companies selected are Total THE PENINSULA WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 22 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS

Q-Re to write Islamic banks to be active users of sukuk this year: S&P $269m premiums DOHA: Qatar’s Islamic banks Gulf Cooperation Council. After countries, which should translate issuance whereas issuance by Islamic innovation in the market as banks for Jan 1 renewals will continue to maintain strong a slowdown in 2013, with sukuk into lending and balance sheet banks in the UAE represented 57.7 issued sukuk to strengthen their credit growth and are expected volumes globally declining by 13 growth opportunities for the banks. percent of regional issuance. capital ratios. Dubai Islamic Bank DOHA: Q-Re, a wholly-owned to become more active issu- percent, S&P anticipates that the “This in turn should trigger some “We expect to see a healthy for instance, issued a $1bn Tier 1 subsidiary of Qatar Insurance ers of sukuk over the next few sukuk industry will expand again in issuance in the debt capital mar- issuance volume in the GCC in perpetual note in March, while Company (QIC), yesterday years. A double-digit growth in 2014, partly driven by corporate and kets issuance from Saudi Arabia, 2014 as a result of the supportive the Saudi British Bank issued a announced that it expects to issuance by the Gulf corporate infrastructure issues in the Gulf. as well as key hydrocarbon export- economy and regulatory develop- Tier II subordinated note of SR write approximately $269m of and infrastructure entities are Global growth in sukuk issuance ers with large infrastructure needs ments. However, we believe the 4bn in November 2013” property, casualty and speci- expected to boost the Global could be further supported through such as the UAE and Qatar, should Fed’s move to taper its quanti- “In Qatar, despite slowdown in ality lines premiums from the Sukuk Market in 2014, Stand meeting the high demand for infra- benefit from a robust economy in tative easing programme could credit growth largely due to admin- January 1 renewals. & Poor’s Rating Services said structure spending across the GCC, 2014”, the report noted. influence issuance through a shift istrative delays in certain projects On a constant foreign exchange in its “Outlook for Global Sukuk where the S&P expects issuance to Traditionally, financial institu- toward local currencies from dollar we expect credit growth to accel- basis, this volume represents an Market in 2014” released continue climbing at a double-digit tions in the UAE and Saudi Arabia denominated issuances. Banks in erate in 2014. The Qatari Islamic increase of 43 percent from the yesterday. pace in the next two years. have led Sukuk issuance in the Gulf Saudi Arabia will likely continue to banks continue to maintain strong 2013 expiring renewable base of S&P contends that there are The ratings agency forecasts with sporadic issues from Qatar. In display double-digit credit growth credit growth and we anticipate that business. two main regions for sukuk issu- that oil prices will remain close to 2013, two conventional Saudi banks in 2014, which could add further they will become more active issuers For 2014, Q-Re expects to ance in 2014. The first is Asia, par- $100 per barrel. It foresees good issued sukuk totaling $1.5bn, repre- support for sukuk issuance….” of sukuk over the next few years”. maintain momentum for strong ticularly Malaysia. The second is economic prospects in major Gulf senting 42.3 percent of total regional “We also witnessed some THE PENINSULA growth following the successful expansion of its portfolio in the previous year. “Q-Re remains on track to WTC Association member visits Qatar Chamber building a strong global reinsur- ance franchise. Our underwriting teams managed to significantly increase our shares in profitable QIB and QInvest business and successfully estab- lished new client relationships. Q-Re also bolstered its presence in the Lloyd’s market through new participations. At the same introduce time, we opted for significant reductions of renewed business in lines and territories where our profitability criteria were not Shiraa Funds met,” said Gunther Saacke, Chief Executive Officer, Q-Re. Willi Schuerch, Q-Re Chief Underwriting Officer, added: Two products with different returns “We recorded the fastest growth in North American property and DOHA: Qatar Islamic Bank launched last year and offers a credit and surety business as (QIB) and Qatar’s leading highly diverse product range for well as in the aviation segment, investment bank QInvest, have Sharia-compliant investors glo- where we basically started from launched a new range of innova- bally. QMAP is unique in that it is scratch. Our more established tive Shari’ah-compliant funds, the first fully Shariah-compliant speciality lines, in particular agri- the “Shiraa Funds”. managed account platform, culture and casualty classes, also Shiraa Funds are a range of which allows the team to build developed very favourably with a innovative products investing and distribute custom products growth of 20 to 30 percent. into a selection of global Shariah- for clients across multiple asset We chose to shrink our inter- compliant funds, and spanning classes. It provides investors with national property catastrophe across international equity and the opportunity to select from a business by 10 percent, while sukuk markets with the objective range of high quality Sukuk and increasing marine premiums Remy Rowhani, Qatar Chamber Director General, received Martin Sallum, Board Member of World Trade to deliver sustainable and attrac- equity funds that are managed by slightly by 15 percent, as Q-Re Centres Association yesterday. They discussed the World Trade Center’s services, roles and ways of coop- tive long term performance to top tier professional teams. remains committed to active QIB clients. Bassel Gamal, Group Chief eration with Qatar Chamber. portfolio management.” The Shiraa Funds will be ini- Executive Officer of QIB, said, tially offered to QIB’s Private, “The launch of Shiraa Funds, Total sells Angolan Tamayuz and Wholesale bank- QIB’s newest investment proposi- ing clients. Shiraa Funds’ main tion, marks yet another milestone offshore asset advantage is that clients can in our growth, and the result India sees Sudan trade near $1bn choose which fund to invest in of a fruitful collaboration with PARIS: French oil group Total depending on their preferred QInvest. The aim is to deliver has agreed to sell its stake of risk and return profile. Each of sustainable and attractive long- KHARTOUM: India sees two- Sudan has struggled with a petroleum sector, which was val- 15.0 percent in an oil exploration the options offers a different type term performance to QIB clients. way trade with Sudan reach- shortage of foreign reserves, a ued at about $2.3bn before South field off Angola to local state oil of potential return and hence The new funds signal the start of ing $1bn, New Delhi’s foreign weakened currency and soaring Sudan’s independence. group Sonangol for $750m, the carries a different level of associ- QIB’s offering of portfolio man- minister said yesterday in prices since South Sudan sepa- The impact of unrest in South company said yesterday. ated risk: Shiraa Defensive Fund agement to our clients.” Khartoum, as the impoverished rated in July 2011 with about 75 Sudan was expected to be dis- The deal, worth the equivalent focuses strongly on capital pres- He added, “Shiraa Funds will African nation asked for help in percent of united Sudan’s oil cussed during Khurshid two-day of ¤554m, was “in line with Total’s ervation with a low level of risk. bring a number of benefits to building its agricultural sector. production. visit which includes talks with global strategy to actively manage Shiraa Moderate Fund achieves investors including the choice of “Our trade figures are expected The lost crude accounted for Sudan’s Oil Minister Makawi its portfolio and focus its invest- competitive returns by taking a the most suitable fund for each to reach close to $1bn by the end most of Khartoum’s export earn- Mohammed Awad. ment capability on core assets,” moderate level of risk and Shiraa client, best in class investments. of the financial year 2013-14”, ings and half of its fiscal revenues. India’s ONGC Videsh Ltd, a senior executive for Total’s Long-Term Fund will accom- The funds enjoy the best perform- External Affairs Minister Salman Economists say revitalising partner in two joint oil produc- production in Africa, Jacques plishes higher returns by taking ing Shariah-compliant investment Khurshid told reporters after Sudan’s neglected farm sector is tion companies in South Sudan, Marraud des Grottes said. higher levels of risk. vehicles available to investors and talks with his Sudanese counter- a key to economic recovery. announced on December 26 The sale concerned Block 15/06, The investment process uses active management, as Shiraa part Ali Ahmed Karti. “The minister reminded me that the firms had temporarily “located approximately 350km a top-down approach in which Funds are being actively managed The value of two-way trade that it is important that India halted operations there because northwest of Luanda in deep off- different asset classes are com- by Qinvest, thus ensuring on-going between the two countries reached should assist... with alternative of deteriorating security. Since shore Angola and covers approxi- bined together to target different monitoring and analysis of cur- about $888m in the financial year energy, solar energy” to allow mid-December soldiers loyal to mately 2,984 square kilometres, return ranges as well as a bottom- rent and potential investments.” ended March 31, 2013. ground water to be pumped out for the South’s President Salva Kiir with a water depth ranging from up approach in selecting talented Tamim Hamad Al Kawari, “There’s a lot more that we agriculture in areas where water is have been battling rebel troops 220 to 1,700 metres,” the company investment managers who take Chief Executive Officer of QInvest, can do together,” said Khurshid, scarce, said Khurshid, on the final and militia who back Kiir’s sacked said. advantage of market movements commented, “These new prod- on the first-ever visit to Sudan by leg of a North African tour which vice president Riek Machar. The block has been operated by paying close attention to ucts are very much in line with an Indian foreign minister. included Morocco and Tunisia. India’s Ambassador S K Verma by Italian group Eni with 35 per- fundamentals. the new strategy for our Asset The two sides discussed coop- “We would certainly look at told AFP that the troubles in cent, Total 15 percent, Sonangol The Shiraa Funds will be man- Management division which was eration in manufacturing and applications of sprinkler irriga- South Sudan were not the rea- 15 percent, SSI — a joint affiliate aged by the Asset Management recently announced. This coopera- agriculture, Khurshid said. tion, applications of drip irriga- son for Khurshid’s stop, which of China’s Sinopec and Sonangol, team of QInvest. The Shiraa tion with our largest shareholder, India is one of the world’s five tion, that India has improved and would focus more broadly on 25 percent, Norwegian Statoil 5.0 Funds will be made through QIB, is a testament of the benefits biggest emerging economies, and perfected,” he said. “the way forward” in India-Sudan percent, and Falcon Oil Angola the QInvest Managed Account of the new strategy.” the second-largest exporter to India’s largest investment relations. Investimentos five percent. Platform (QMAP) which was THE PENINSULA Sudan, after China. is in the Sudan-South Sudan AFP THE PENINSULA/AFP

Malabar Gold & Diamonds opens 106th branch BP reports sharp fall in Q4 profit

LONDON: BP reported a on the consensus for underly- businesses worth $22bn in 2013 sharp drop in fourth-quarter ing replacement cost profit was alone. BP said the fall in its earn- profits yesterday partly due to partially a result of a lower tax ings was partly due to its shrinking weakness in its refining busi- charge during the quarter com- asset base, but also hurt by diffi- ness, providing more evidence pared to last year. cult conditions in its refining busi- of difficult times across the “big Bernstein analyst Oswald Clint ness, which is comparatively much oil” sector. said on an operational basis, the smaller after it sold two major BP’s results, hit by tough con- company missed a consensus tar- refineries in the US last year. ditions in US refining and partly get by around 10 percent and its In its refining or downstream offset by strong contributions performance would have looked business, BP posted underlying from its stake in Russia’s Rosneft, bleaker without the strong per- pretax replacement cost profit of highlighted the industry’s strug- formance from its stake in $70m in the fourth quarter, com- gle to increase profits in the face Rosneft. pared with $1.4bn in the same of rising costs. BP is also dealing with the period in 2012. The world’s fourth-biggest pub- fallout from the Gulf of Mexico Costs associated with the start- licly traded oil company yesterday oil spill which killed 11 men and up of the Whiting refinery, also reported underlying replacement became the United States’ worst in the US, and exploration write- cost profit of $2.8bn for the fourth offshore environmental disaster. offs were partially offset by higher quarter of 2013, 28 percent lower The company said the provision earnings from Rosneft. than the same period a year ago, to cover the spill’s clean-up, fines, Rosneft, the state-controlled but ahead of a consensus forecast compensation and legal costs had Russian company into which BP of $2.7bn. now risen to $42.7bn from $42.5bn folded its Russian business last Exxon Mobil Corp, the world’s last year. year in exchange for a 19.75 per- largest publicly traded oil com- Having settled criminal pro- cent stake, delivered $1.1bn of pany by market value, reported ceedings, BP is two phases into a BP’s profits. Saeed Said Al Qamzi, Director of Adnoc, and Yusuffali M A, MD of Lulu Group, opened Malabar Gold & lower-than-expected quarterly three-stage civil trial, and has an Shares in BP, which have fallen Diamond’s outlet in Ruwais Mall in Abu Dhabi. Eissa Al Qamzi, Manager of Adnoc; Ashraf Ali MA, Executive profit last week, while Chevron army of lawyers working to push 2 percent in the year to date, were Director of LuLu Group; Raja Abdulkader, Director of Line Investments; Shamlal Ahamed MP, Managing and BP’s European rival Shell remaining spill fines and penalties down 1.6 percent at 466.00 pence by Director International Operations; K P Abdul Salam, Group Executive Director; Ameer CMC, Finance Director, both issued profit warnings in into the future. 0957 GMT, lagging Britain’s bluechip were present. The new shop is the Group’s 106th branch. January. The group has been shedding index which was 0.2 percent lower. Investec analysts said BP’s beat assets since the 2010 spill, and sold REUTERS WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 23

Air France spruces up Business class Gates quits Qatari bourse as Microsoft chairman, new index drops CEO named WASHINGTON: Microsoft said yesterday that founder Bill Gates was stepping down as 87.90 points chairman to become a technol- ogy adviser to the tech giant as Indian-born Satya Nadella was Dubai market rises one percent named chief executive officer. Gates “will devote more time DOHA: The Qatar Exchange “Sentiment is bearish on to the company” in his new role lost 87.90 points, or, 0.79 per- emerging markets and we’re on the board with the board as cent, to 11,049.69 points from seeing some of that,” said Asim “founder and technology advisor,” the previous closing of 11,137.59 Bukhtiar, head of research at a company statement said. points on Monday. Riyad Capital. “Investors are Indian-born Nadella, who The volume of traded shares looking at international market becomes the third CEO at fell to 10,461,921 from on Monday headlines but there’s also a grow- Microsoft, has been executive 13,153,906 and the value of shares ing focus on individual stocks.” vice-president of its Cloud and increased to QR502,812,765.05 Smaller-cap stocks led trad- Enterprise group. from QR434,306,437.28 on ing volumes, a usual trend on the “During this time of transfor- Monday. market in times of slow local news mation, there is no better per- Among the top losers were flow. son to lead Microsoft than Satya Qatar National Bank whose Bukhtiar said there was a lot Nadella,” said Gates in the com- share was down 0.44 percent to of speculative activity on the pany statement. QR179.10, Commercial Bank of market in the post-earnings and A hostess presenting a new Air France Business class passenger seat at the site of the French aero- “Satya is a proven leader with Qatar lost 0.70 percent to QR71, dividends season, but longer-term space equipment group Zodiac Seats France in Issoudun, central France, yesterday. hard-core engineering skills, busi- Industries Qatar fell 1.74 percent investors were adjusting positions ness vision and the ability to bring to QR175.30 and Electricity and for anticipated growth later this people together. His vision for Water decreased by 1.38 percnet year. how technology will be used and to QR179.10. In Egypt, Cairo’s benchmark experienced around the world is The Banking and Financial sec- index tumbled 1.6 percent, down Spain unemployment rate rises exactly what Microsoft needs as tor index lost 0.36 percent while for a second session since Sunday’s the company enters its next chap- Consumer Goods and Services 45-month high. ter of expanded product innova- sector index added 0.29 percent. “The profit-taking pressure MADRID: The number of ago and, based on labour market But in annual terms, registered tion and growth.” The industrial sector dropped was apparent on the market registered jobless in Spain survey data from the national sta- jobless fell by 166,343 people, the John Thompson, lead independ- 0.89 percent while insurance sec- today, which had overheated in rose in January as employ- tistics office, the rate was 26 per- ministry said. ent director, will assume the job tor was down 0.59 percent. recent days,” said Ahmed Abu ers shed workers hired for the cent in the fourth quarter of 2013. “This month’s figure remains of chairman at Microsoft, which Meanwhile, most Middle East Taleb, assistant vice-president of Christmas holiday season, but But recent stronger-than- significantly better than previous has been losing ground in the tech shares fell yesterday as signs of brokerage at Pharos Securities. the rate of increase slowed from expected economic growth has years, considering that in the last world amid a shift away from the a slowdown in the US economy Dubai’s bourse, meanwhile, previous years, suggesting the helped fuel hopes the worst may five years registered joblessness traditional PC to mobile devices. caused anxiety on global markets rose 1 percent to 3,812 points as ailing labour market may have be over, and headcount in the still has risen by an average of 544,000 Nadella, who takes over from and prompted local investors to retail buying returned to prop- touched bottom. battered construction sector rose people on an annual basis,” said the retiring Steve Ballmer, said, book profits, but Dubai’s bourse erty-related shares in what was Joblessness rose 2.4 percent, or by 3,486 last month. Employment Secretary Engracia “Microsoft is one of those rare bucked the trend as shares in a shorter trading session due to by 113,097 people, from December “These figures are, to some Hidalgo. companies to have truly revolu- construction companies rallied. a technical malfunction. to 4.8 million, yesterday’s Labour extent, positive, but continue to The Spanish economy emerged tionized the world through tech- Saudi Arabia’s benchmark lost The index gained for a second Ministry data showed. show a minimal, almost insignifi- from a two-year recession in the nology, and I couldn’t be more 0.4 percent with heavyweight sec- session in the last five but fell just The rise was the first since cant, step toward a real recovery second half of last year, prompt- honoured to have been chosen to tors of banks and petrochemical short of January 29’s 63-month October. But the ministry said it in the labour market,” said Citi ing many economists to raise lead the company.” shares weighing. intraday peak of 3,855 points. was also the smallest gain in the economist Jose Luis Martinez. their economic forecasts and the He added, “The opportunity World shares fell after US Shares in builder Arabtec first month of the year since 2007, “We’ve almost certainly government to forecast net job ahead for Microsoft is vast, but manufacturing activity slowed surged 11.1 percent on what and in seasonally adjusted terms touched bottom and are seeing creation for 2014. to seize it, we must focus clearly, sharply last month, dealing a blow traders said was accumulation the figure fell by 3,907 people. some recovery, but it’s very slow.” But for many Spaniards, mak- move faster and continue to to markets already worried that by a bulk buyer. The company Unemployment has soared Almost 100,000 people were laid ing ends meet remains a constant transform. A big part of my job the US Federal Reserve’s decision announced a $6.1bn deal with higher in Spain than in any off from the services sector, while struggle. Jobs are scarce and, is to accelerate our ability to bring to taper its asset purchases would Abu Dhabi state fund Aabar on other European Union country employment also fell in agricul- when they do become available, innovative products to our cus- lead to capital flight from emerg- Sunday to build 37 new towers. bar Greece since a decade-long ture, by 8,110 people and in indus- wages are often pitifully low. tomers more quickly.” ing markets. AGENCIES property bubble burst six years try, by 3,577. REUTERS AFP WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 24 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS

Islamic Bank Greece, lenders of Britain gets fresh capital, resolve issue plans expansion

LONDON: Islamic Bank of Britain (IBB), the country’s of fiscal gap only Shariah-compliant retail lender, has received a £75.8m ($124m) injection from its new Qatari owner to support the Primary surplus estimated at €1bn bank’s expansion plans. The investment bring IBB’s ATHENS/BRUSSELS: allowing funds to be disbursed in capital to £100m, after it was Greece and its foreign lenders early March. acquired in January by Masraf have largely bridged differences A ruling by a top Greek court Al Rayan, Qatar’s largest Islamic over a potential fiscal gap this that may reverse troika-man- bank by market value. year, removing a key sticking dated wage cuts imposed in 2012 This will allow IBB to grow point holding up talks to release on police and the armed forces its retail operations and develop more bailout funds, two sources is complicating the talks, the its commercial business, target- directly involved in the talks sources said, as it could blow a ing both British and Gulf-based said yesterday. hole of up to half a billion euros firms, Sultan Choudhury, IBB’s The latest review of Greece’s in its finances. interim managing director, said progress under its European The troika is also pressing in a statement. Union/International Monetary Athens to adopt a so-called tool “Future plans feature an expan- Fund bailout has dragged on since kit of more than 300 reforms sion of property finance to busi- September in large part due to proposed by the Organisation nesses, including development wrangling over how Athens would for Economic Co-operation and finance. The bank will also expand plug a gap in this year’s budget, Development, aimed at making Showroom staff chat next to a Toyota Motor Corp Prius Alpha at its showroom in Tokyo yesterday. its services for Gulf-based custom- which had been estimated at the economy more competitive ers looking to invest in the UK.” ¤1bn. and lowering consumer prices. The January deal valued IBB’s However, that is no longer In a departure from the usual Toyota forecasts record earnings entire issued share capital at the main issue in talks thanks practice of lengthy discussions in £24.1m; the fresh cash could help to surprisingly strong data on Athens to seal a deal, senior offi- it compete with Britain’s other a primary surplus for 2013, two cials from the trio of EU, IMF and TOKYO: Toyota has shifted a five-fold jump in third-quarter vehicles last year, ahead of US Islamic banks, which focus mostly sources involved in the negotia- European Central Bank inspec- into high gear, with the world’s earnings. giant GM’s 9.71 million. on corporate banking services. tions said. tors to Athens are not expected largest automaker tipping a It also boosted its fiscal year to Toyota broke GM’s decades- These include Bank of London A third official cautioned that to return to Athens until a deal record annual profit after more March profit forecast to a record long reign as world’s top auto- and The Middle East, European it was too early to say the issue has already been agreed in prin- than doubling its nine-month 1.90 trillion yen. maker in 2008 but lost the crown Islamic Investment Bank, had been fully resolved since com- ciple, three sources close to the earnings to $15bn thanks to the The automaker has ramped up three years later as Japan’s Gatehouse Bank, and units of plete 2013 data is not yet avail- talks said. yen’s sharp decline and surging drive emerging markets while key quake-tsunami disaster ham- Qatar Islamic Bank and Abu able. Athens expects to report a Greece, which teetered close to sedan sales. US demand has also been on the mered production and disrupted Dhabi Islamic Bank . Founded primary surplus — ie, not count- bankruptcy in 2012, has no press- The buoyant results underscore upswing. the supply chains of the nation’s in 2004, IBB has around 50,000 ing debt — of ¤1bn in 2013, but the ing funding needs until May, when a recovery not only for the Camry “In addition to the positive automakers. customers, offering services that data will be officially confirmed bond payments of ¤9.3bn are and Corolla maker but also for impact of the weaker yen, our Toyota also took a heavy blow adhere to Islamic principles such only in April. due. It has already been bailed rival Japanese auto giants includ- operating income increased from a series of mass recalls as a ban on interest payments. The two sides still need to out twice with ¤240bn from the ing Nissan and Honda. due to marketing efforts that affecting millions of cars that Birmingham-based IBB is review- agree on the terms of bank stress EU and IMF since 2010 and is The trio have been big winners boosted vehicle sales, as well as damaged its once-stellar reputa- ing its distribution strategy to help tests, structural reforms and the expected to need additional funds over the past year as a sharp cost-reduction activities,” Toyota tion for quality and safety and led it expand across Britain, which will impact of a court ruling revers- and debt relief before it can get on drop in the yen inflated export- Managing Officer Takuo Sasaki to US congressional hearings in include the use of agencies, outlets ing some wage cuts before ¤4.9bn its feet again. ers’ repatriated profits, further told reporters in Tokyo. 2010. located in the premises of other in rescue loans are disbursed, the Athens is likely to get a third boosted by improved overseas He added that there “is a sense Last week, Honda said its nine- businesses, said Choudhury. IBB sources said. bailout from the eurozone of ¤10- demand in key markets includ- that the European market is bot- month net profit surged almost currently offers its products through “The picture we have is that the 20bn to keep it going through ing the United States and China. toming out” as sales improve in 40 percent to 403.60 billion yen, five branches and two agencies. issue of the fiscal gap for 2014 is 2014 and 2015, but there will be no Sales in China fell off a cliff the US and China. thanks to brisk global sales and a “IBB’s retail banking opera- nearly resolved,” a Greek finance reduction on the principal of the in late 2012 and into last year as Toyota last month said it had weaker yen. tions will remain in Birmingham. ministry official said, speaking on debt Athens already owes to the a Tokyo-Beijing diplomatic row kept the title of world’s biggest Nissan reports its financial However, it will also create a condition of anonymity. euro zone, euro zone officials said. sparked a consumer boycott of automaker with 2013 sales of results next week. stronger presence in London from A second official confirmed German magazine Der Spiegel Japanese brands in the world’s 9.98 million vehicles, outpac- Despite the buoyant figures where IBB’s commercial and GCC the assessment, adding that the on Saturday cited a German biggest vehicle market. Relations ing Germany’s Volkswagen and so far, an April sales tax hike in (Gulf Cooperation Council) opera- discussions had now moved to finance ministry a document remain tense, but Japanese manu- General Motors, and said it Japan and possible slowdown in tions will be based.” IBB was pre- assessing a potential fiscal gap which outlined the possibility facturers have reported sales are expects this year to become the US and Asian markets could put viously majority-owned by another for 2015. of a haircut on the money that returning to pre-spat levels. first to break the 10 million vehi- the brakes on sales, said Takaki Qatari lender, Qatar International Greek officials are hoping a Greece borrowed from the euro- Yesterday, Toyota said it earned cle sales barrier. Nakanishi, analyst and chief Islamic Bank, which had been in deal with the EU/IMF — talks are zone or a package of new loans 1.52 trillion yen ($15bn) between On Friday, Volkswagen, which executive at Nakanishi Research discussions with Masraf Al Rayan now in their fifth month — will be of ¤10-20bn. April and December on sales of had been sitting in number-three Institute in Tokyo. over a sale since mid-2012. clinched by the end of February, REUTERS 19.12 trillion yen — propelled by spot, said it sold 9.73 million AFP REUTERS

QATARI MARKET Dar Al Arkan may Bond Coupon Maturity Currency Mid-Price Yield Moody’s S&P Rosneft reports 51pc jump in profit Qatar Govt 5.15% 4/9/2014 USD 101.00 (0.64 %) Aa2 AA repay $450m Qatar Govt 3.125% 1/20/2017 USD 105.13 1.35 % Aa2 AA MOSCOW: Russia’s oil giant said in a report. Rosneft attrib- company’s results are the best Qatar Govt 6.55% 4/9/2019 USD 119.63 2.49 % Aa2 AA sukuk ahead Rosneft reported a 51-percent uted its strong natural gas per- not only in Russia, but also on a Qatar Govt 5.25% 1/20/2020 USD 112.75 2.90 % Aa2 AA jump in annual profit yester- formance to last year’s acquisition global scale.” Sechin added that Qatar Govt 4.5% 1/20/2022 USD 107.63 3.40 % Aa2 AA of schedule day thanks to a huge boost in of the private Anglo-Russian Rosneft this year is preparing Qatar Govt 9.75% 6/15/2030 USD 153.75 4.93 % Aa2 AA natural gas output that made venture TNK-BP along with the to launch “new major projects” Qatar Govt 6.4% 1/20/2040 USD 115.88 5.27 % Aa2 AA DUBAI: Dar Al Arkan Real it the country’s third-largest assets of the Itera energy group. whose details he did not disclose. Qatar Govt 5.75% 1/20/2042 USD 106.88 5.28 % Aa2 AA Estate Development Co, Saudi producer. Rosneft is run by President Russia’s world-topping crude Arabia’s largest listed property The state-held firm — the Vladimir Putin’s long-time confi- output hit a post-Soviet record of Qatari Diar 3.5% 7/21/2015 USD 104.00 0.75 % Aa2 AA developer, may consider early world’s biggest publically-traded dent Igor Sechin and has long set 523.3 million tonnes (10.51 million Qatari Diar 5% 7/21/2020 USD 109.88 3.29 % Aa2 AA repayment of a $450m Islamic oil company by both production its sights on cutting into Russian barrels per day) last year. Comqat 5% 11/18/2014 USD 103.25 0.81 % A1 A- bond due to mature in February and reserves — said its 2013 net rival Gazprom’s huge advantage But analysts worry that about Comqat 3.375% 4/11/2017 USD 103.75 2.15 % A1 A- 2015, a company representative income reached 551bn rubles in natural gas. 90 percent of that production QIB 3.856% 10/7/2015 USD 104.13 1.35 % NR NR said yesterday. ($15.6bn). The company now plans to comes from fast-depleting fields QNB 3.125% 11/16/2015 USD 103.63 1.06 % Aa3 A+ Last December, Dar Al Arkan The company said its total also enter the liquified natural in West Siberia that were first QNB 3.375% 2/22/2017 USD 104.00 2.02 % Aa3 A+ repurchased 87 percent of a hydrocarbon production grew gas market by building an LNG developed in the Soviet era. SR750m ($200m) sukuk due in by 80.3 percent thanks to a plant in Russia’s Far East under Rosneft said production at Doha Bank 3.5% 3/14/2017 USD 103.88 2.20 % A2 A- April 2014. It left the remaining 132.9-percent leap in natural gas an agreement signed in 2013 with new fields in East Siberia now Qtel 3.375% 10/14/2016 USD 105.00 1.47 % A2 A- SR100m of that issue to mature output. the US super-major ExxonMobil. accounted for 19 percent of all Qtel 7.875% 6/10/2019 USD 123.88 3.01 % A2 A- on schedule at the request of the “The 2013 performance has Last year “was a transforma- liquids — an encouraging statistic Qtel 4.75% 2/16/2021 USD 106.00 3.77 % A2 A- investor holding it. made Rosneft the third-largest tional year in the company’s his- that is watched closely by inves- Qtel 5% 10/19/2025 USD 101.00 4.89 % A2 A- “We have set a precedent for gas producer in Russia with tory,” Sechin said in a statement. tors because of its importance to Rasgas 5.5% 9/30/2014 USD 103.13 0.65 % Aa3 A repaying bonds ahead of schedule increased gas production to 38.17 “We are proud to say that future output. Rasgas 5.832% 9/30/2016 USD 106.88 3.11 % Aa3 A and we will consider doing so with billion cubic metres,” the company on a number of metrics... the AFP the February 2015 issue,” the rep- Rasgas 5.298% 9/30/2020 USD 107.75 3.96 % Aa3 A resentative told Reuters on the SOVEREIGNS sidelines of a financial conference Bond PDA* Maturity Currency Mid-Price Yield Moody’s S&P in Dubai. Vattenfall profit down Abu Dhabi Govt 5.5% 4/8/2014 USD 101.13 (1.11 %) Aa2 AA He stressed that no final deci- Abu Dhabi Govt 6.75% 4/8/2019 USD 121.88 2.25 % Aa2 AA sion on an early repurchase had been made, but it could make Dubai Govt 6.7% 10/5/2015 USD 108.13 1.72 % NR NR sense as a liability management Dubai Govt 4.9% 5/2/2017 USD 107.25 2.56 % NR NR exercise and as a way to signal Dubai Govt 7.75% 10/5/2020 USD 120.75 4.15 % NR NR to the market that the company Dubai Govt 6.45% 5/2/2022 USD 112.75 4.57 % NR NR could repay its debts comfortably. Qatar Govt 4% 1/20/2015 USD 103.38 0.45 % Aa2 AA Dar Al Arkan has issued $750m of Bahrain Govt 6.273% 11/22/2018 USD 114.13 3.08 % NR BBB a $1.2bn debt issuance programme Bahrain Govt 5.5% 3/31/2020 USD 106.75 4.24 % NR BBB which is valid until November 2014. It may make another issue under Egypt Govt 5.75% 4/29/2020 USD 99.50 5.84 % Caa1 B- this programme if market condi- Morocco Govt 4.5% 10/5/2020 EUR 103.00 3.98 % NR BBB- tions are right, but no decision has

*Periodic Distribution Amount been reached. IMPORTANT NOTE: Dar Al Arkan’s net profit Published by HSBC Bank Middle East Limited, P O Box 57, Doha, Qatar which climbed nine percent from a year is licensed and regulated by Qatar Central Bank and Jersey Financial Services earlier to SR156.8m in the fourth Commission. Information quoted is from publicly available sources or proprietary quarter of last year. The company data and subject to change. HSBC accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising out of the use of all or part of this material. This information is general and does not cited higher margins on property take into account individual circumstances, objectives or needs. The price of bonds sales and lower costs. can and does fluctuate. The secondary market for bonds may not provide significant Company Chairman Youssef Al liquidity or may trade based on prevailing market conditions. Past performance is not Shelash said last October that the a reliable indicator of future performance. You should consider these matters and consult your financial advisor prior to making any investment decisions. supply of housing in Saudi Arabia could lag demand for at least the next five years, creating lucrative opportunities for developers who could benefit from rapid population The logo of Swedish energy company Vattenfall in downtown Malmo, Sweden. Vattenfall yesterday reported growth and a new mortgage law. a 68-percent drop in fourth-quarter net profit, citing larger provisions for its German-based operations. REUTERS WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 BUSINESS VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 25

Why Post Office needs Volkswagen backs union to compete with banks BY FELIX SALMON vote at Chattanooga plant

ack in 2011, I said that “the only way to save the Post BY JIM EFSTATHIOU JR in Chattanooga, which opened in 2011. In factory in Puebla, Mexico, which offers Office will be to allow it to move into financial services”, next week’s vote, the UAW is seeking to lower costs, company executives said last seeing as how “banks in the US are mistrusted and dis- olkswagen has struck a deal for set up a workers council, an employee month. Bliked and many people would love to be able to just bank workers at a Tennessee assem- body that’s common at most large German “Volkswagen is known globally for its sys- at the Post Office instead”. bly plant to vote next week on companies to resolve labour disputes and tem of cooperation with unions and works That’s still true, and has been given a lot more salience since the whether to join the United Auto protect jobs. councils,” UAW President Bob King said in Post Office inspector general released a 33-page white paper, last Workers, which the union says “Volkswagen Group of America and the the statement. week, saying that the Post Office should move into what it calls, in Vcould pave the way for German-style worker UAW have agreed to this common path for The union seeks to work with the com- its headline, “Non-Bank Financial Services for the Underserved”. councils. the election,” Frank Fischer, chairman and pany, he said, “to set a new standard in the The report has been warmly greeted by Elizabeth Warren, on The National Labour Relations Board will CEO of Volkswagen Chattanooga, said in a US for innovative labour-management rela- its own terms: If the Postal Service offered basic banking services supervise the February 12-14 vote after a statement. tions that benefits the company, the entire nothing fancy, just basic bill paying, check cashing and small majority of workers at a Chattanooga plant “That means employees can decide on workforce, shareholders and the community.” dollar loans — then it could provide affordable financial services signed authorisation cards, the UAW said representation in a secret ballot election, The workers council wouldn’t represent for underserved families, and, at the same time, shore up its own Monday in a statement. The Chattanooga independently conducted by the NLRB. employees in talks over wages or benefits. financial footing. plant, which has about 1,550 hourly employ- Volkswagen is committed to neutrality and The distinction between the role of the So let’s be clear: there’s a very important difference between ees, is the only major Volkswagen plant calls upon all third parties to honour the council and full union representation cre- postal banking, on the one hand, and what the inspector general without some form of union representation, principle of neutrality.” ated some confusion among plant employ- is proposing, on the other. And while postal banking is a good the UAW said. In Germany, union affiliation isn’t ees, leading to a complaint to the labour idea, the non-bank proposal from the inspector general is simply The UAW has fought for years to form required for employees to form worker board that was ultimately dismissed, not going to fly. bargaining units at a foreign-owned US councils, Chaison said. It’s not clear if that’s Chaison said. Indeed, it’s rather worrying and disconcerting — not to mention car factory, said Gary Chaison, a labour law the case in the US. “Some workers were saying, ‘What are disingenuous — that the inspector general goes out of its way to professor at Clark University in Worcester, “This is the way to open the door for the we voting for?’” Chaison said. “Traditional say that the Post Office should be a non-bank, rather than a bank. Mass. The tactic of organising employees UAW to get into these companies,” Chaison collective bargaining or an alternative, This is a bit weird, since the centrepiece of the inspector gen- into worker councils could help the UAW said. “We’re really talking about unexplored German-type labour relationship? The ques- eral’s proposal, the Postal Card, seems to do nearly all of the things increase membership, he added. territory here.” tion is the word unionised. It’s not tradi- that a bank account does. “Essentially the UAW, which has for years The Chattanooga plant is the favoured tional unionisation.” The inspector general, it seems, wants the Post Office to part- been trying to make inroads into foreign- North American production site for the Union leaders frequently hold the top ner with a real bank, which would ensure that the funds on the owned plants, finally has a foreign- owned company’s upcoming mid-sized sport- util- spots on the councils, though the groups Postal Card were FDIC insured: such a setup would be similar plant it can organise,” Chaison said in an ity vehicle, based on the Crossblue concept, represent all employees, even those who to the way in which Simple (which is technically a non-bank) interview. “That’s really remarkable.” which may not hit showrooms until 2016. aren’t union members. Volkswagen and partners with Bancorp for such things. But this is nit-picking, The UAW, which has lost 75 percent Wolfsburg, Germany-based Volkswagen, the UAW met in Wolfsburg in August to really: Simple explicitly sells itself as a bank replacement, and of its membership since 1979, has pushed the world’s third-biggest carmaker, is consider setting one up at the Chattanooga the Postal Card does pretty much everything that Simple does, to gain recognition at Volkswagen’s plant also weighing other locations including a factory. WP-BLOOMBERG plus — crucially — loans. (Which are the one big banking service Simple doesn’t offer right now.) The inspector general — along with Elizabeth Warren — is at great pains to point out how useful the Postal Card would be to the “underserved” — that is, the millions of Americans without bank accounts. And they’re absolutely right about that: 38 percent of post offices are in ZIP codes with zero bank branches, and so such a card would bring banking services to lots of people who have no easy access to them right now. But if the Postal Card is as attractive as the inspector general paints it, then why shouldn’t it also appeal to people who do have bank accounts? After all, the white paper explicitly says that the Post Office should offer “a diverse suite of financial services”: this is a much broader proposal than the basic savings account, capped at $2,500, which the Post Office offered between 1911 and 1967. And while it might well make sense to farm out back-end services to a bank rather than making the Post Office a bank itself, the fact remains that the Post Office would still be competing with banks. (Which explains why the banks are so opposed to the idea.) If the Post Office was hobbled so that it would compete only with payday lenders and not with banks, then the whole Inspector General plan is, I’m sad to say, a nonstarter — for exactly the same reasons why the Church of England can’t play a similar role in the UK. Non-banks compete on convenience, not on cost, and tend to be open very long hours; while the Post Office has the advantage that a lot of the underserved go there anyway, it’s still going to have real difficulty competing with Western Union, check-cashing stores, and all the other high-cost non-bank financial-services shops which do exist in the ZIP codes without banks. In order to make a postal bank work, it needs to be a postal bank: it has to be able to take market share away from existing banks. That in turn means that the existing banks will fight tooth and nail to prevent such a thing from ever seeing the light of day. The charitable view of the Inspector General’s report is that it’s essentially pushing a Trojan horse: that it will try to set the Post Office as a “non-bank”, on the grounds that doing so will help the underserved and not really compete with banks. That’s the only way Congress would ever allow such a thing to happen. But once the Postal Card is up and running, nothing’s going to stop the Post Office from competing directly with every bank in the country. But if the Post Office is hobbled from day one in such a way as to prevent it from competing with banks, then the Inspector General’s idea is never going to work. REUTERS Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate Emerging markets outlook not rosy, but valuations tempt

BY DANIEL BASES “The market has discounted in search of higher returns. account rebalancing before bot- another warning that ‘cheap’ may percent year-to-date, as the a lot of bad news. I think with Emerging market currencies toming,” wrote Goldman Sachs. not translate to ‘rally’ any time result of Mexico’s reforms, not merging markets were a lot of policy responses in the have lost ground against the soon,” the IIF, an association rep- just global factors. facing headwinds going better countries, some oppor- US dollar and the euro. Bank of STOCKS SUFFER resenting big banks, wrote. Mexico has undertaken major into 2014, but January’s tunities have developed,” he America Merrill Lynch (BAML) The Institute of International Those countries have reforms across multiple sectors. Erout surprised even the said, pointing to relative value research said that in aggregate, Finance wrote in its latest capi- responded, to a point. After In the long-run reforms are gloomiest of investors, with big in Indonesian, Brazilian and emerging market currencies are tal flows report on emerging mar- Turkey’s central bank hiked its positive but for companies like declines in stocks, bonds, and Turkish credits which have now undervalued by about 2 per- kets that the asset class now has benchmark interest rate by 425 American Movil the near-term currencies. fallen far and fast. cent, a sharp swing from 2010- a price-to-earnings ratio for the basis points, BAML said it is time challenge will be a negative for its Political turmoil and terrorism In just a month, the broad 2013 period when they were coming 12 months, which gives a do some “serious bottom fishing bottom line. threats across market capitals MSCI Emerging Markets stock considered overvalued. clue as to future corporate earn- in Turkey.” Currently, the telecom compa- from Ankara to Kiev, along with index is down 7.5 percent ver- The bank sees cheap medium- ings, at about 9 times, below the “We think it’s now right to be ny’s P/E ratio is 11.3 on a forward growing concern about bad debt sus a decline of 5 percent for all term bonds in South Africa and decade average of 11 times. By overweight on a full 2014 view,” 12-month basis versus its peers in China’s shadow banking sys- of 2013, a year when developed Brazil. Mexico, Poland, Hungary comparison, developed markets BAML said. who are trading at 13.6 times tem, caused a full-scale pullback markets surged by 30 percent. and Malaysia look to be fairly are trading at a forward P/E of In addition to Turkey, central earnings. The stock is down 6 across all risk assets. The benchmark US S&P 500 priced, they said. 15, above the long-run average of bankers in India and South Africa percent in 2014, putting it at a As a result, some investors are stock index is down 3.6 percent The aggressive rate hikes about 13 times earnings. have taken aggressive action, 17 percent discount to its peers, starting to see attractive values year-to-date. from central banks in troubled “Overall emerging market val- which one veteran EM analyst according to Thomson Reuters in these markets. Sentiment Yield spreads between emerg- countries could stabilise those uation has now fallen to very low said will be the deciding factor data. remains weak, however, so the ing market sovereign debt and currencies, but it comes at a levels,” the IIF wrote on Jan 30. going forward. Strategas Research Partners actions of emerging market policy comparable US Treasuries wid- cost. Higher rates could slow To be sure, the IIF cautions “Policymakers could change believes Mexico is primed for makers will determine whether ened by nearly 50 basis points, growth in certain countries that that not every market is going to valuation perceptions,” said more gains given reforms and its investors take advantage of low according to JPMorgan’s bench- are already struggling, and the rebound. Many emerging mar- Daniel Tenengauzer, head of proximity to a strengthening US valuations or opt to preserve capi- mark indices, the largest one weak demand from China means kets - such as the now-famous Americas research at Standard economy. tal, strategists say. month increase since June of last it will be more difficult for coun- ‘fragile five’ - face challenges Chartered in New York. The firm also believes Emerging “From our view, the valua- year when the Fed’s first hint at tries to export their way out of in implementing structural He points to India’s aggressive Europe is poised for growth, citing tions in this sector, be it hard reducing its monetary stimulus trade imbalances. reforms. These five - Brazil, tightening, which stemmed the in particular, Poland’s promising currency (debt), local currency rattled global markets. As fundamentals have not India, Indonesia, South Africa rout that country’s markets expe- prospects of a so-far resilient cur- (debt), EM FX, corporates, are improved, emerging market coun- and Turkey - are considered the rienced in the last six months. In rency, low inflation, easy credit, becoming compelling. Look, that PLAYING DEFENCE tries with negative balance of pay- emerging nations with the weak- that time India’s benchmark BSE and lower risk of capital flight. is the first time I have been Turkey, India and South Africa ments metrics are in danger of est balance of payment posi- index has surged nearly 18 per- MSCI’s Eastern Europe stock even close to bullish on emerg- have recently surprised markets more underperformance in their tions and most monetary policy cent from a spike lower in August index trading against the MSCI ing markets for a while. But it is with aggressive defences of their currencies. uncertainty. 2013. Europe index, on a relative on a relative risk/return basis,” currencies. Their actions come “Our EM strategists believe “The broad weakness in In Latin America, he sees 12-month forward P/E basis, is said Paul DeNoon, senior debt as the Fed moves toward more some EM equity markets have expected earnings over the next the acute selling of stocks such below its long-term average, they portfolio manager at Alliance normal monetary policy that will further to fall, and that they 12 months (with only China as Mexican telecoms giant said. Bernstein in New York. cause less money to move abroad require significant current expected to see much pickup) is American Movil , down 6.2 REUTERS WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 26 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MARKET

QE Indices Summary QE Index 11,049.69 0.79 % WORLD STOCK INDICES GOLD & SILVER EXCHANGE QE Total Return Index 15,873.39 0.79 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 3,184.46 0.83 % RATE QE All Share Index 2,752.08 0.69 % INDEX Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low QE All Share Banks & Financial 2,646.33 0.36 % GOLD Buying Selling Services All Ordinaries 5114.132 -87.756 -1.69 5383.4 5114.132 QE All Share Consumer Goods & 6,131.47 0.29 % QR147.1150 US$ ...... QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 Services Cac 40 Index/D 4095.78 -11.97 -0.29 4351.21 4098.71 QE All Share Industrials 3,666.89 0.89 % SILVER UK ...... QR 5.9068 QR 5.9898 QE All Share Insurance 2,619.36 0.59 % Dj Indu Average 15372.8 -326.05 -2.08 16588.3 13784 Euro ...... QR 4.9232 QR 4.9916 QE All Share Real Estate 1,989.39 1.56 % QR 2.2710 CA$ ...... QR 3.2555 QR 3.3201 QE All Share Telecoms 1,545.36 1.66 % Egypt Cma Gn Idx 1026.29 32.57 3.28 999.95 312.38 QE All Share Transportation 1,940 1.21 % Swiss Fr ...... QR 4.0013 QR 4.0579 Hang Seng Inde/D 21397.77 -637.65 -2.89 23469.33 21746.23 Yen ...... QR 0.0356 QR 0.0363 QE Market Summary Comparison Aus$ ...... QR 3.2111 QR 3.2752 Today Previous day Iseq Overall/D 4635.39 -27.6 -0.59 4873.52 4522.4 CRUDE OIL 04-02-2014 03-02-2014 Ind Re ...... QR 0.0577 QR 0.0588 Index 11,049.69 11,137.59 Karachi 100 In/D 26751.45 -194.65 -0.72 27213.21 25273.11 Pak Re ...... QR 0.0342 QR 0.0349 Change 87.90 36.38 BRENT Nikkei 225 Index 14008.47 -610.66 -4.18 16164.01 14615.05 Peso ...... QR 0.0796 QR 0.0812 % 0.79 0.33 $ 105.93 SL Re ...... QR 0.0276 QR 0.0282 YTD% 6.46 7.30 S&P 500 Index/D 1741.89 -40.7 -2.28 1850.84 1485.01 Taka ...... QR 0.0464 QR 0.0475 Volume 1 0 , 4 6 1 , 9 2 1 1 3 ,1 5 3 , 9 0 6 DUBAI Nep Re ...... QR 0.0363 QR 0.0370 Value (QAR) 502,812,765.05 434,306,437.28 Straits Times/D 2965.8 -25.15 -0.84 3187.8 2989 SA Rand ...... QR 0.3229 QR 0.3304 Trades 4,375 4,478 Straits Times/D 2971.47 22.7 0.77 3035.78 2657.77 $ 102.02 Up 11 | Down 26 | Unchanged 03

QATAR EXCHANGE | DAILY TRADING REPORT | 04-02-2014

INTERNATIONAL MARKETS A List of Shares from the world

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

A B G Infra-B/D 42.5 -0.4 1371 Cmc Ltd-B/D 1409.9 1.55 4795 Hind Org Chem-/D 9.21 0.15 1616 Lgb Broth-B/D 288.9 -7.4 1370 Reliance Indus/D 320 2.1 65280 Legal & Genera/D 215.6 1.3 3650011 A C C-A/D 1000 -0.9 14949 Colgate-A/D 1317.25 5.2 5900 Hind Unilever-/D 570.75 0.7 46497 Lloyd Metal-B/D 7.8 -0.4 1513 Ruchi Soya-B/D 31.3 0.05 43513 Lloyds Bnk Grp/D 79.702 -0.28 82152952 Aarti Drugs-B/D 229.45 0 4401 Dai-Tichi Kar-/D 51 -1 2409 Hind.Petrol-A/D 240.65 -3.05 39572 Lok.Hous&Con-T/D 12.93 0.61 323737 S Bk Bikaner-B/D 298.55 1.5 14147 Marks & Sp./D 466.1113 -1.7 795695 Aban Offs-B/D 483.85 5.65 1147050 Dhampur Sugar-/D 29 -0.15 6794 Hindalco-A/D 102.8 -0.75 2802606 Lupin-A/D 912.35 -9.55 190123 Saur.Cem-B/D 13.6 -0.4 1000 Next/D 6149.75 -40 83529 Ador Welding-B/D 125 -0.75 3562 Dr. Reddy-A/D 2596.05 -53.5 7794 Hous Dev Fin-A/D 788.3 -0.6 67486 Lyka Labs-B/D 10.6 -0.08 11763 Thirumalai-B/D 94 -0.95 1661 Pearson/D 1089 -18 705499 Aegis Logis-B/D 152.8 -1.5 4993 E I H-B/D 55 -1 31270 I F C I-A/D 22.55 0.35 902969 Mafatlal Ind-B/D 122.4 5.95 7318 Timexgroup-B/D 8.88 -0.04 12964 Prudential/D 1235 31 2415473 Ahmed.Forg-B/D 98.5 -1.7 2059 E.I.D Parry-B/D 125.5 0.2 9532 Idbi-A/D 55.45 1.05 197626 Mah.Seamless-B/D 163.95 0.85 1096 Tinplate-T/D 44.05 -0.4 4385 Rank Group/D 140.5565 -0.1 8367 Alembic-B/D 12 0.28 53946 Electrosteel-B/D 13.08 -0.06 31959 Ifb Ind.Ltd.-B/D 72.8 4.8 7011 Mangalam Cem-B/D 99.25 1.55 4802 Ucal Fuel-T/D 41 -0.8 1195 Rentokil Initi/D 118.3 -1.3 996458 Alok Indus-B/D 6.8 0 354315 Emco-B/D 25.8 -0.2 92191 India Cement-B/D 52.15 0.5 48835 Maral Overs-B/D 19.9 0.35 2017 Ultramarine-B/D 41.75 1.4 3051 Apollo Tyre-A/D 112.7 0.15 702224 Escorts Fin-T/D 3.26 -0.17 1000 India Glycol-B/D 88.7 -0.4 13730 Mastek-B/D 173.3 -0.1 30820 Unitech P -A/D 12.63 0.34 2940820 Rolls Royce Pl/D 1152 -13 1664458 Ashok Leyland-/D 16.45 0.55 914167 Escorts-B/D 122.35 -3.35 324043 Indian Hotel-A/D 57.55 -0.2 29246 Max India L-A/D 188.35 0.3 2156 Rsa Insrance G/D 94.825 -1.45 16156356 Sainsbury(J)/D 351.94 6.5 4039006 Bajaj Hold-A/D 920 -8.4 1650 Essar Oil-A/D 47.1 1.45 366325 Indo-Bcount-B/D 41.6 0.45 6680 Mrpl-A/D 42.6 -0.6 28630 LONDON Ballarpur In-B/D 12.03 0.04 111713 Eveready Indu-/D 35.05 0.2 13881 Indusind-A/D 387.75 5.5 171508 Nahar Spg.-B/D 106.45 2.75 9624 Schroders/D 2389 -29 109564 Bata India-A/D 970.3 13.55 10798 F D C-B/D 120.25 -0.85 24074 J.B.Chemical-B/D 127.65 0.2 217075 Nath Seeds-B/D 4.06 -0.04 3914 3I Group/D 372 0.7 338459 Severn Trent/D 1745 -17 362918 Beml Ltd-B/D 206.05 22.3 403943 Federal Bank-A/D 76.85 -0.35 305955 Jagatjit Ind-T/D 41.25 0.25 4390 Nation Alum -A/D 32.95 -0.35 45573 Assoc.Br.Foods/D 2754 68 446055 Smith&Nephew/D 879.5 -6.5 496676 Bhansali Eng-B/D 12.15 -0.61 2539 Ferro Alloys-B/D 4.99 -0.11 25584 Jagson Phar-B/D 10.75 -0.24 5523 Navneet Edu-B/D 54 -0.65 16071 B Sky B/D 874.5 -5.5 1815935 Smiths Group/D 1390.3935 -20 304139 Bharat Bijle-B/D 339.5 -9.65 1950 Finolex-B/D 152.85 2.4 11016 Jbf Indu-B/D 71.8 -0.6 7601 Nepc India-B/D 3.51 0.09 46265 Barclays/D 265.096 -0.7 18238434 Standrd Chart /D 1224.875 -3 2172669 Bhartiya Int-B/D 160 -3.05 3661 Forbes-B/D 521.5 -0.2 24879 Jct Ltd-B/D 1.82 -0.03 22396 Neuland Lab-B/D 310.4 26.3 17943 Bg Group/D 1039.1 14.5 4626388 Tate & Lyle/D 756.5 2 281921 Bhel-A/D 163.4 -4.1 365047 Gail-A/D 354 -11 59024 Jenson&Nich.-B/D 2.39 0.05 12599 Nrb Bearings-B/D 37.9 2.6 4241 Tesco/D 317.3 -1.65 5285677 Bom.Burmah-B/D 97.95 1.05 6441 Gammon India-B/D 12.2 -0.07 6211 Jktyre&Ind-B/D 141.5 1 70468 O N G C-A/D 268.3 0.1 126811 Bp/D 466.025 -7.6 12598035 Unilever/D 2330.35 -8 1076209 Bombay Dyeing-/D 55.55 -0.5 116072 Gangotri Tex-T/D 1.05 0 1100 Jmc Projects-B/D 79.95 2.45 1024 Oil Country-B/D 33 0.35 7670 Brit Am Tobacc/D 2917 0.5 951526 United Util Gr/D 719.5 -3 586238 Camph.& All-B/D 140.65 -0.4 2410 Garden P -B/D 36.3 -0.7 2105 Kajaria Cer-B/D 319.75 6.8 328185 Onward Tech-T/D 50.5 -0.7 8100 Bt Group/D 384.605 -0.1 6211322 Canfin Homes-B/D 174.9 4.3 2000 Godfrey Phil-B/D 2609.45 67.4 4949 Kalpat Power-B/D 72.7 -0.55 9865 Orchid Chem-T/D 45.1 0.1 28538 Centrica/D 314.3 0.5 2733693 Vodafone Group/D 219.5 -2.6 38099816 Castrol Ind-A/D 295.85 -3.3 29000 Goodricke-B/D 127.5 -3.8 1124 Kalyani Stel-B/D 48.7 -0.2 25199 Orient Hotel-B/D 15.35 0.53 1716 Gkn/D 387.636 -5.5 1669383 Whitbread/D 3702 -12 114505 Century Enka-B/D 133.35 0.25 2380 Goodyear I -B/D 356.4 5.3 115853 Kg Denim-B/D 15.55 -0.1 13188 Orient.Carb.-B/D 128.4 -3.15 17234 Hsbc Holdings/D 621.088 -0.7 11962029 Century Text-A/D 292.75 1.2 141152 Hcl Infosys-B/D 24.6 0.8 482867 Kinetic Eng-B/D 37.85 1.35 1856 Orient.Carb.-B/D 128.4 -3.15 17234 Imperial Tobac/D 2226 -13 582469 Chambal Fert-B/D 37.95 -0.6 176647 Him.Fut.Comm-B/D 8.48 -0.05 267246 Kopran-B/D 24.15 -0.7 157220 Radico Khait-B/D 152.05 0.7 208856 Kingfisher/D 363.4 -1.2 1175392 Cipla-A/D 415 2.55 103955 Himat Seide-B/D 57.25 -0.9 43349 Lakshmi Elec-B/D 183.7 2.9 8074 Rallis India-B/D 160 -0.2 11475 Land Secs Grou/D 1015 -13 919189 City Union Bk-/D 48.55 0.1 24930 Hind Motors-B/D 7.98 0.66 666131 Lakshmi Mach-B/D 2700.35 52.65 1060 Rallis India-B/D 160 -0.2 11475 WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 27

Super Bowl 48 set record for Oklahoma beat Memphis TV viewers LOS ANGELES: Seattle’s 43-8 San Antonio Spurs unleash late blitz to overcome New Orleans Pelicans blowout of Denver in Super Bowl 48 offered little in the way of suspense, but 111.5 million view- NEW YORK: Kevin Durant deficit in the final 11 minutes with ers made it the most-watched scored 31 points to lead a 38-19 fourth quarter to lift the television event in US history. Oklahoma City to a victory over San Antonio Spurs to a victory Ratings released by the Fox the Memphis Grizzlies. over the New Orleans Pelicans. network on Monday showed Durant, who returned to The Pelicans led by as many Sunday’s game also set a record form after his 12-game streak of as 14 points early in the fourth for the most-streamed online 30-point games ended in Brooklyn quarter, but the Spurs (35-13) sports event, while a whopping on Friday, also racked up eight unleashed a 21-4 blitz in a 6:08 25.3 million related tweets com- rebounds and eight assists for span to take an 87-84 lead. posed by 5.6 million authors were the Western Conference-leading Reserve guard Anthony Morrow logged before, during and after the Thunder (39-11). scored 20 points for New Orleans contest. Zach Randolph paced the (20-27). The viewership for the Grizzlies (26-21) with 13 points Danny Granger scored a Seahawks’ lopsided victory and 13 rebounds. season-high 16 points to lead eclipsed the previous record 111.3 Dwyane Wade had 30 points a dominant effort from the million viewers who watched the and LeBron James nearly had his Indiana Pacers’ bench in a 2012 Super Bowl between the New first triple-double of the season, blowout of the Orlando Magic. York Giants and New England leading the Miami Heat to a vic- Indiana (37-10) is 25-2 against Patriots, according to the Nielsen tory over the Detroit Pistons. teams that are now below .500 and tracking service. James had 24 points, 11 assists went on a tear midway through The NFL’s championship spec- and eight rebounds as the Heat the second half to dispatch tacular is always a big TV draw (34-13) avenged one of their Orlando (13-37). and, until ratings for last year’s four home losses this season. Lance Stephenson had 15 game showed a slight decline, the Detroit won in Miami 107-97 on points, 12 rebounds and five assists Super Bowl had set viewership December 3. for Eastern Conference-leading records for three straight years. Detroit (19-28) had its two- Indiana. The half-time show headlined game win streak snapped and John Wall scored 22 points and by hit singer Bruno Mars, with lost ground on idle Charlotte (21- Trevor Ariza added 20 as the guests the Red Hot Chili Peppers, 28), which currently holds the Washington Wizards moved above was also a record breaker with an eighth and final playoff spot in the .500 for the first time since 2009 estimated TV audience of 115.3 Eastern Conference. with a win over the Portland Trail million. Miami Heat shooting guard Dwyane Wade (3) drives to the basket as Detroit Pistons shooting guard Kentavious Tony Parker scored 21 of his Blazers. That eclipsed the 110.8 million Caldwell-Pope (5) defends during the second half of their NBA game at American Airlines Arena. game-high 32 points in the second Washington (24-23) won for who watched Beyonce last year, half and helped erase a 14-point the fourth time in six games. The as well as the previous record of Wizards last owned a winning with his sixth of the night from Irving scored a game-high scored 23 points and centre Jonas 114.0 million set by Madonna two NBA Results record when they were 2-1 on long distance. 27 for the Cavaliers (16-32). Valanciunas added 18 points and years ago. Indiana 98 Orlando 79 October 31, 2009. The Bucks (9-39) had lost 15-of- Deron Williams broke out of nine rebounds as the Toronto Fox said the most active Washington 100 Portland 90 Damian Lillard scored 25 points 16 and six in a row, but behind a personal slump in a big way, Raptors earned a rare win in Utah. moments on social media during for the Trail Blazers (34-14), who Knight’s 25 points, they beat New scoring 21 points to help the The Raptors improved to 26-22 the game were when Seattle’s Brooklyn 108 Philadelphia 102 lost for the third time in four York (19-29) for the first time Brooklyn Nets earn a win over the after winning in Utah for just the Percy Harvin returned the sec- Miami 102 Detroit 96 games. since March 9, 2012. Philadelphia 76ers. second time in nine visits since ond half kick-off 87 yards for Milwaukee 101 NY Knicks 98 Brandon Knight’s three-pointer Anthony finished with 36 points. Williams notched 20 points for 2006. Forward Marvin Williams a touchdown (429,000 tweets), San Antonio 102 New Orleans 95 with 1.4 seconds remaining led the All-Star forward Dirk Nowitzki the first time in about a month, scored a season-high 23 points for the conclusion of the half-time Oklahoma City 86 Memphis 77 Milwaukee Bucks to a victory over scored 23 points, leading the while Paul Pierce had a game-high the Jazz (16-32). show (424,000 tweets) and Most Dallas 124 Cleveland 107 the New York Knicks. Dallas Mavericks to a routine vic- 25 points for the Nets (21-25). Guard Randy Foye hit a three- Valuable Player Malcolm Smith’s Knight’s shot, his fourth three- tory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Philadelphia rookie guard pointer at the buzzer as the second-quarter interception Denver 116 LA Clippers 115 pointer of the night, came seconds Five other Mavericks (28- Michael Carter-Williams scored Denver Nuggets rallied to beat the return for a touchdown (300,000 Toronto 94 Utah 79 after Knicks forward Carmelo 21) scored in double figures, 21 points for the 76ers (15-34). Los Angeles Clippers. tweets). Sacramento 99 Chicago 70 Anthony tied the game at 98-98 while All Star guard Kyrie All-Star guard DeMar DeRozan REUTERS AFP

Qatar set for National Sport Day Pittsburgh down Ottawa DOHA: Boasting an unrivalled taekwondo, countless free sport- participation and fun, fitness and schedule of free sporting events ing sessions, accessible to all, will health, National Sport Day has NEW YORK: James Neal in the third period to lead the across the country, National be taking place throughout Qatar cemented its status as one of the scored 1:55 into overtime, lift- NHL Results Edmonton Oilers to a win over Sport Day aims to give people in as celebrations to highlight the highlights of Qatar’s community, ing the Pittsburgh Penguins to Edmonton 3 Buffalo 2 the Buffalo Sabres. Qatar the opportunity to kick- importance of healthy living reach sporting and national calendars. a 2-1 victory over the Ottawa Pittsburgh 2 Ottawa 1 The game was a battle of the start a future of healthy living. a new peak. Before the big day, some Qatar Senators. Detroit 2 Vancouver 0 two worst teams in the league. From cycling to swimming, Based on the sporting prin- residents spoke of their plans (see Neal knocked in a rebound off Buffalo (15-32-8) is last in the football to basketball, tennis to ciples of inclusion and unity, below). THE PENINSULA Colorado 2 New Jersey 1 a shot by center Evengi Malkin Eastern Conference, while Columbus 4 Anaheim 2 over sprawled Senators goaltender Edmonton (19-33-6) props up the Craig Anderson to improve the Chicago 5 Los Angeles 3 Western Conference. Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia 5 San Jose 2 Goalie Ilya Bryzgalov had 42 Penguins’ record to 39-15-2. saves for Edmonton. Anderson made 46 saves for the Abdelkader scored both goals in Patrick Kane scored two goals Senators (24-21-11) in defeat. the Detroit Red Wings win over and an assist, defenseman Nick Ryan O’Reilly scored 28 seconds the Vancouver Canucks. Leddy scored a goal and an assist, into overtime to give the Colorado Howard made 16 saves in two and goaltender Corey Crawford Avalanche a victory against the periods after Gustavsson stopped made 31 saves as the Chicago New Jersey Devils. eight shots before leaving after the Blackhawks defeated the Los PA Parenteau tied the score for first period because he felt dizzy. Angeles Kings. the Avalanche (36-14-5) with 1:22 Canucks coach John Tortorella Chicago (34-10-14) won for the remaining in regulation and goal- returned from his unpaid 15-day second time in four games on a tender Jean-Sebastien Giguere on suspension for charging the road trip that will run through the the bench for an extra attacker. Calgary Flames locker room fol- Olympic break. The Blackhawks Ryan Carter scored for the lowing the first period of a January took the lead for good at 3-2 on Devils. 18 game. He missed six games, in centre Marcus Kruger’s sixth goal Jimmy Howard and Jonas which Vancouver went 1-4-1. of the season with 6:09 remaining Gustavsson combined for a Matt Hendricks scored on a in the middle period. Sheikh Hassan bin Salman Al Thani Mohamad Abdel Aziz Abdel Ghani Salman shutout and left winger Justin shorthanded breakaway early REUTERS On National Sports Day I will take my On NSD, I will not stay home for sure. On NSD, I am going to take it easy. family, and we are going to spend I am going to meet my friends and Easy on the heavy sports, but still I the day outside, walking and run- we are going to exercise all day long, am going to put on my sneakers and ning and playing all sorts of games. mainly we are going to play football. walk! I love walking, it burns calories I am not planning on returning home I think it will be fun and exciting. and is good for the heart. before nightfall. It is a very important After all, we are really lucky to have Mayweather hits social media day which we should benefit from a sports day! to choose next opponent the most. LOS ANGELES: With the Though many boxing fans right style to beat Floyd if he date and venue already inked would love to see Filipino south- fights correctly and doesn’t stay in, five-division world champion paw Manny Pacquiao take on the in the pocket too long,” Roach Floyd Mayweather Jr. has asked American in what has long been told reporters earlier this year. his fans on social media to a heavily anticipated match-up, “I always thought he could beat choose his next opponent from Khan and Maidana now appear him with his speed. either Britain’s Amir Khan or to be the two most logical options. “I think he’s faster than Marcos Maidana of Argentina. Pacquiao lost much of his Mayweather and that’s what it Mayweather, who outboxed appeal after successive defeats to takes to beat him. Floyd might Mexican Saul Canelo Alvarez in American Timothy Bradley and have his hands full on the night.” his most recent bout in September, Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez Maidana, 30, has a professional has a 45-0 record and is expected in 2012, while Khan and Maidana record of 35-3 with 31 knockouts to announce shortly who he will both have time on their side. and won his most recent bout in fight at the MGM Grand Garden Englishman Khan, a 27-year- December with a unanimous deci- Arena in Las Vegas on May 3. old who is a two-time world sion against the heavily favoured “I’m going to let the fans vote. champion, has compiled a 28-3 American Adrien Broner to claim Hamza Sheikha Abdel Rahman Sayid Andrew Weir Tell me who I should fight next. record with 20 knockouts and the WBA welterweight title. Khan or Maidana?” Mayweather is known for his hand and foot Aged 36, Mayweather is known This National Sport Day I’m going to This National Sport Day I am going to The Qatar Olympic Committee Sport posted on his personal Facebook, speed, as well as his charisma. for his conditioning and meticu- try a new sport, but with all the vari- spend the day with my family playing Zone looks to have a lot happening Twitter and Instagram accounts Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie lous preparation, and produced ety it’s been hard to choose. I looked table tennis. It’s such a fun game and and I think I’ll head down there to try on Monday. Roach, who used to coach Khan, a master class when he beat through the programme and have something we can all play together. out some new sports. I’d like to use Mayweather is known for his believes the Briton has all Alvarez by majority decision at got it down to three – boxing, sailing I’m really looking forward to spend- the opportunity to meet new people creative stunts and his taking the attributes needed to hand the MGM Grand to take the and rifle shooting. They are sports I ing some quality time with everyone while getting fit at the same time and to social networks for advice on Mayweather his first ever defeat Mexican’s WBA and WBC super have never tried but look like fun, and and getting fitter and healthier at the also learning something new. his next opponent comes as no as a professional. welterweight titles. that’s what National Sport Day is all same time surprise. “I’ve always said Amir has the REUTERS about for me. WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 28 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

Volleyball: Win for Al Rayyan New Zealand favourites for Woods enthrals India Tests, says Hadlee

WELLINGTON: New Zealand legend Richard Hadlee (pic- fans in India tured) has declared the Black Caps slight favourites for the two-Test series against India American cards incredible nine-under beginning this week, despite the gulf in the teams’ world rankings. NEW DELHI: World No.1 Hadlee, New Zealand’s best- golfer Tiger Woods played the ever cricketer with 431 Test full 18 holes at the Delhi Golf wickets and 3,124 runs, said the Club (DGC) yesterday card- home side would take enormous ing an unbelievable nine under confidence from their shock 4-0 during an exhibition game to one-day series win over India. enthral fans. He said while India, second in To put things in perspec- the Test rankings, could not be tive, Mohammad Siddikur of underes- Bangladesh finished with a total timated, of 14 under 274 at the same course the eighth- when he won the Indian Open ranked crown. New Only select media personnel Zealanders and DGC members were invited had all the to the private event organised by momen- the Hero Group and the World tum head- Sports Group (WSG). ing into the Woods, who reportedly received series. $2.2m for the appearance, played “Let’s with Hero MotoCorp MD and An Al Rayyan player spikes during the Qatar Volleyball Association face it, CEO Pawan Munjal and some League match against Al Khor at Al Arabi Indoor Stadium in Doha on they’re a select invitees for most of the Monday. Al Rayyan won 3-0 ( 25-16, 25-19 and 25-18). very, very time. good side, but at the moment we He was later joined by Indian might go in a little bit as favour- golf stars Shiv Kapur and Anirban ites because we’ve got a roll on at Lahiri who played the last three US golfer Tiger Woods (centre) walks at the Delhi Golf Club prior to the moment,” he told Radio Sport. holes. playing an 18-hole round with special invitees in New Delhi, yesterday. New Zealand have already “Thanks so much for the time, Woods is making his first visit to India and is competing in an 18-hole defied the rankings with their it was an absolute blast. It is hard corporate outing at the Delhi Golf Club. one-day series win, in the process to say how much fun I had today. sending India from first to second It was a narrow golf course and in the ODI standings and lifting I was nervous with my tee shot. Meanwhile, the general public to enquire but they gave me no their own ranking from eighth to My best buddy Arjun (Atwal) told was left a little aggrieved by the details. Later I found out in the seventh. me so much about India and I am privacy of the event. Many had news that this was a members Hadlee said replicating that happy to be here. Thank You so wanted to get a glimpse of the only event but I still came here success in the Test arena would be much,” Woods told reporters. sport’s most popular figure but hoping to see him,” golf enthusiast a difficult feat for the Black Caps. Among the guests were former the ‘members only’ tag left them Varun Bapna said. “We know that we’re very India cricketers Madan Lal and disappointed. “It’s a shame that ordinary peo- competitive in T20 and one-day Murali Karthik. “A few days back I had heard ple can’t see him play. You have to matches, I think we can take any- The American golfer arrived the news that Tiger Woods would be a member or know some big one on in those formats,” he said. here Monday from Dubai, where be coming to Delhi and that got shots. This once again proves that “Test cricket is going up another he took part in the Dubai Desert me really excited. I am not a golf is such an elitist sport,” said level, it will be a real test for Classic, and was whisked away member of the DGC but I some- Dhruv Bhatia, a big Tiger Woods them.” from the VIP area at the airport times go play with a few buddies fan. Action from Eljaish vs Al Wakra match. The first Test starts in amidst tight security. of mine there, so I called them IANS Auckland tomorrow. AFP

Warburton back to lead MotoGP: Marquez leads pack in Sepang test SEPANG, Malaysia: Newly that is notoriously tricky due in Cheerful Marquez said he Wales against crowned MotoGP world cham- part to Malaysia’s tropical mois- hoped to work on the bike’s brak- Repsol pion Marc Marquez led the ture and frequent rains. ing and rear stability while exit- Honda Ireland timesheets yesterday as riders Yesterday the track was hot ing the sharp corners at Sepang. Team’s kicked off three days of test- and dry, yielding fast times but The 20-year-old Spaniard Spanish LONDON: Regular captain ing in sizzling temperatures at leaving riders drained after clinched the 2013 MotoGP title rider Marc Sam Warburton will return Malaysia’s Sepang Circuit. the two-month layoff since last in his first season in the category, Marquez to Wales’s starting XV for the Honda’s Marquez clocked 2 season. becoming the youngest-ever world steers his champions Six Nations interna- minutes 00.286 seconds for the Marquez, who many favour to champion. bike dur- tional against Ireland in Dublin day’s top time, with Yamaha’s repeat victory this year thanks The testing wraps up tomor- ing the first on Saturday. nine-time Italian world champion to his fearless riding style, was row, but the riders will return to MotoGP The back-row forward, who Valentino Rossi just 0.518 seconds in fine form, pushing his Honda Sepang for another three-day ses- pre-season began his comeback from a behind. to get the most out of the sion from February 26. testing ses- shoulder injury by coming off the Marquez’s teammate and fellow conditions. They will have a further sion at the bench against Italy in Wales’s Spaniard Dani Pedrosa was third- “The grip (tyre traction) was session at Phillip Island in opening 23-15 victory over Italy fastest, 0.620 seconds off the pace, quite good. Last year during test- Australia and at the Losail cir- Sepang at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium with former world champ Jorge ing here I was nervous but now I cuit in Qatar, before the new Circuit out- last weekend, replaced Justin Lorenzo of Yamaha next. feel more relaxed,” he said. season officially kicks off at side Kuala Tipuric at openside flanker in the Marquez and Rossi traded top “Frankly my lap time was quite Losail on March 23. Lumpur, team announced by coach Warren times through the day as they fast. I was surprised that many Malaysia will host the champi- yesterday. Gatland yesterday. blazed around a Sepang circuit riders were also fast.” onship in October. AFP The New Zealander made three changes in all to the side that took the field against the Azzurri, with second row Heir Apparent Cup Archery Championship Andrew Coombs replacing Luke Charteris, sidelined because of a hamstring injury, and 101-times capped prop Gethin Jenkins in for Paul James. Warburton has regained the captaincy from Alun Wyn Jones, the lock who deputised as captain for the injured loose forward in the British and Irish Lions’ deci- sive third Test victory against Australia in Sydney last year. Behind the scrum, Lions full- back Leigh Halfpenny is set to win his 50th Wales cap aged just 25 in an unchanged back division. Ireland, 28-6 winners over Scotland in Dublin last weekend, are due to name their side on Thursday. In last season’s correspond- ing fixture, the Irish beat Wales 30-22 on the opening weekend in Cardiff, although the Welsh recovered to take the title. Wales are now bidding to become the first side in the his- tory of the Six Nations’ various guises to win three successive outright championships. Wales were not at their best against a determined Italy but Gatland said he expected his side, who’ve gone two Six Nations with- out an away defeat, to improve on The podium winners at the Heir Apparent Cup Archery Championship pose for a picture along with Abdulla Ali Al Mutawa Al Hammadi (third left, first row), General Secretary of Qatar that performance at Lansdowne Shooting and Archery Association (QSAA), Fatima Al Jusaiman (extreme right, front row), Board Member of QSAA and Ibrahim Al Mohannadi (left), Tournament Director. Road. AFP WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 29

Jordan qualify for Asian Cup Chelsea outwit Man City in Australia

Defeat ends this season’s 100 percent home record for Pellegrini’s side SINGAPORE: Jordan booked their place at next year’s Asian Cup and made some amends for LONDON: Jose Mourinho their World Cup heartache with proved why he is one of the most an incident-packed 3-1 win over revered coaches in the world as Singapore yesterday. he masterminded a 1-0 win that In a match which both teams ended Manchester City’s 100 finished with 10 men, the visitors percent home Premier League owed their opener to a sly piece record this season. of skulduggery, and then had Chelsea have now picked up 10 Singapore’s Baihakki Khaizan points from a possible 12 against sent off for an innocuous nudge. the other top four teams this Ahmed Hayel rose unmarked to term as they joined the hosts double Jordan’s lead in the second on 53 points, two behind leaders half, but there was more drama Arsenal. later when Chinese referee Tan “We played fantastic. Against Hai gave the scorer an unmerited a fantastic club, to play the way red card for a tackle from behind. we did I think is amazing for the Singapore ensured a grand- boys,” Mourinho told Sky Sports stand finish when they pulled after his team had also hit the a goal back with six minutes woodwork three times. remaining, via Khairul Amri from “In the process of building the the penalty spot after a push on team, to prepare the team to be Muhammad Safuwan. favourites, to be one of the favour- But Yousef Rawshdeh came ites next season, I think it is an on to score the goal of the night important step.” in injury-time to secure second Mourinho had said Chelsea would place in Group A for Jordan and not be “parking the bus” and while a spot at next year’s Asian Cup they certainly snuffed out City’s in Australia. array of attacking talent, his side The victory also helps atone also looked dangerous every time for Jordan’s disappointment in they broke and should have added to World Cup qualifying, when they Branislav Ivanovic’s first-half strike reached the intercontinental play- against Manuel Pellegrini side. offs only to lose 5-0 on aggregate “They had couple chances but to Uruguay. we had better chances to kill the Al Nashama (“the Brave game,” Mourinho added. “The Gentlemen”) had been expected players when we didn’t have the to steamroller Bernd Stange’s ball were humble and all ready bottom-placed Singapore, but to defend. When we had the ball Chelsea’s English defender Gary Cahill (top) vies for the ball against Manchester City’s Belgian defender Vincent Kompany (below) during an English they needed a mixture of guile they were trying to play and we Premier League football match at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester on Monday night. and gamesmanship to take the played really well.” lead just before half-time. Despite the win secured by full- Bawab surprised Singapore by back Branislav Ivanovic’s precise spinning off a two-man wall to left-foot strike in the first half, curl in a free-kick, but the goal Mourinho played down the notion Mourinho hails rallying call by McCulloch owed much to Hayel’s deliber- that Chelsea were now favourites ate trip on Hafiz as the defender to win the title and instead talked LONDON: Jose Mourinho joined the club in 2001. He is pop- “I’m serious, Billy was fantas- showed why he is starting to charged in to block. about their potential next season. hailed a pep talk given to ular with the players, providing a tic. I didn’t understand but it draw comparisons with world Shortly afterwards, the hosts’ “It’s not our responsibility or the players by masseur Billy constant source of entertainment looks like the players understood.” greats like Lionel Messi and frustrations reached boiling our objective to say that (we are McCulloch after Chelsea behind the scenes at Stamford Chelsea ended City’s run of Cristiano Ronaldo. point when Mus’ab Allahham favourites). We must complete wrecked Manchester City’s 100 Bridge, and issued a rallying call scoring in 61 consecutive home “He needs to keep his feet on went down far too easily under the puzzle and formation. Some percent home record in the before the game against City. league games since 2010 as the ground,” Mourinho said of Khaizan’s challenge, earning the managers it’s in their DNA to say Premier League this season “I didn’t speak. It was Billy the Manuel Pellegrini’s team failed the 23-year-old Chelsea winger. defender a red card. we need two, three, four, five years with a 1-0 win at the Etihad masseur,” Mourinho told report- to find the net at the Etihad for “He still has to improve but Jordan’s second goal was a gift to build. Stadium. ers after third-placed Chelsea the first time this season. he is probably the best young for Hayel, who stood still in the “The next pre-season, me and Manager Mourinho was widely joined City on 53 points, two The Londoners stifled mid- player in the world with legs to six-yard box and jumped to head my players will say openly that praised for his tactical master- behind leaders Arsenal. field dangermen David Silva and go there (to the level of Messi in a corner, but his night was soon we are mature, solid from day one plan after Branislav Ivanovic’s “He was screaming ... so much Yaya Toure with their pressing and Ronaldo). over when referee Tai sent him off and are candidates for the league. first-half goal secured maximum I didn’t understand him. The approach and were also dynamic “Give him time and Willian, for his tackle on Safuwan. Khairul This season is about evolution. points for his side on Monday players were clapping - okay, let’s on the counter attack with Eden (Andre) Schurrle, (Mohamed) Amri pulled one back from the “We can (win the title) if they night but the Portuguese was go. It was Billy’s team talk. Hazard, Willian and Ramires Salah too. Give them time. They spot on 84 minutes but Rawshdeh (City) lose it. Arsenal are work- quick to salute the contribution “The last time I spoke to the leading the way. need good results and this result made his case for Jordan’s squad ing for many, many years for the of the masseur. players was at midday,” said Belgian international Hazard is very important for them.” for Australia when he coolly made evolution of their team.” The wise-cracking McCulloch Mourinho. was a constant threat and REUTERS space and chipped in their third REUTERS in stoppage time. AFP Celtic escape ‘H block’ banner sanction

GLASGOW: Scottish champi- ‘words or conduct or displaying not welcome at SPFL grounds.” ons Celtic will not be punished any writing or other thing which Celtic were fined about £42,000 over an “offensive” banner dis- indicates support for, or affiliation by UEFA over a similar display played at Parkhead, the Scottish to, or celebration of, or opposition during their Champions League Professional Football League to an organisation or group pro- clash with AC Milan four days (SPFL) announced yesterday. scribed in terms of the Terrorism later, after the European govern- The SPFL launched an inves- Act 2000’. ing body decided the “illicit ban- tigation after fans held aloft a “The SPFL found that the ban- ner”, including images of hunger large ‘H’ symbol - representing ner was offensive and breached striker Bobby Sands and Scottish the Maze Prison block in Belfast the SPFL’s rules. However, Celtic nationalist icon William Wallace, where 10 Irish Republicans died FC were able to demonstrate that broke their rules. on hunger strike in 1981 - along- they had taken all reasonably Celtic demanded fans leave side lyrics derived from Flower practicable steps to prevent the their political views at home after of Scotland, “they fought and banner being displayed at Celtic UEFA announced the disciplinary died for their wee bit hill and Park. action. glen”. “As a result, it was determined The supporters’ group respon- The display came during that there was no evidence of sible for the banners, the Green Celtic’s Scottish Premiership any breach of the SPFL’s rules Brigade, later defended the dis- fixture against Aberdeen on by Celtic FC. plays and insisted they were November 23. “The SPFL wishes to reiterate, football-related as they were A spokesman for the league for the avoidance of doubt, that designed to protest against the said: “The SPFL has concluded any banners indicating support Scottish Government’s Offensive its investigation into the appear- for, or affiliation to, or celebra- Behaviour at Football Act and ance of a large ‘H’ banner on 23 tion of, or opposition to an organi- Police Scotland’s implementation November 2013 during Celtic’s sation or group proscribed in of the legislation, which it claims Jordan’s players celebrate by throwing their coach Hossam Hassan Hassanien of Egypt after defeating home match against Aberdeen. terms of the Terrorism Act 2000 has criminalised expressions of Singapore during their Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Asian Cup match in Singapore, yesterday. “SPFL regulations forbid or are otherwise offensive, are Irish politics. AFP Barca coach Martino aims to head off crisis

MADRID: Barcelona must have a beginning. So it is up to Madrid to take a three-point lead star Neymar. Rosell has been trip.This is set to be United’s fifth trophy-winner Alex Ferguson, “cut short” any crisis emerging us to cut it short,” Martino said. at the top of the league by beating replaced as Barcelona president pre-season tour of the United United are seventh in the table from their shock 3-2 defeat to “Moreover, it is a Copa del Rey Real Sociedad 4-0, but Martino by his former deputy Josep Maria States, long considered one of -- seven points adrift of the Valencia which knocked them semi-final and we have it within said the race for top spot in La Bartomeu. the great undeveloped markets Champions League places. There off the top of the Spanish league, our power to ensure this does not Liga is still wide open. Meanwhile, English football for football, with the most recent have been reports United will coach Gerardo Martino said go any further. We expect that “Forty-five minutes of bad play giants Manchester United have in 2011 when the club played four take part in an International yesterday. tomorrow (Wednesday) we can is not enough to rule out Barca. announced they will return to the American teams and Spanish side Champions Cup tournament in The Catalans, who had led La cut this short and leave the defeat I think ruling us out would be United States for a pre-season Barcelona across three cities. North America along with seven Liga for 59 successive match- to Valencia behind us,” he said. hasty.” tour ahead of the 2014/15 cam- However, plans for the tour other major teams. United man- days until Saturday’s loss, will Barcelona took an early lead in Barcelona’s troubles coincide paign in Europe. Full details are may be altered if United have to aging director Richard Arnold, hope to get back to winning ways Saturday’s game at the Camp Nou with a stressful period off the set to be released in the next few take part in the early qualifying welcomed the tour.“I’m delighted by defeating Real Sociedad on but then took their foot off the field after the resignation of club weeks, but the Premier League stages of the Europa League in to announce that the team will Wednesday in the first leg of their pedal and defensive errors allowed president Sandro Rosell because champions said Tuesday they August. be returning to the USA for our Copa del Rey semi-final. Valencia back into the match. of a judicial wrangle over the would visit “a number of destina- Now managed by David Moyes 2014 Tour, presented by Aon,” said “It is true that crises always The loss allowed Atletico cost of signing their Brazilian tions in the country” during their following the retirement of serial Arnold. AGENCIES WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 30 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

Pakistan appoints Aamir Sangakkara lifts Sri Lanka Sohail as chief Veteran notches 34th Test century; visitors reach 314/5 in Chittagong selector LAHORE, Pakistan: Former CHITTAGONG, Bangladesh: Kallis (45), Ricky Ponting (41) Pakistan captain Aamir Sohail Kumar Sangakkara became and Rahul Dravid (36) -- are also (pictured) was yesterday the leading century-maker not playing Test cricket. appointed chief selector of the among active Test players as Sri Sangakkara, a 36-year-old vet- Sri Lanka national cricket team and also Lanka bounced back strongly eran playing his 122nd Test, fol- batsman tasked with developing the after a shaky start in the sec- lowed his 75 in the first Test with Kumar game in the country. ond Test against Bangladesh in an impressive innings that has so Sangakkara The Pakistan Cricket Board Chittagong yesterday. far contained 19 boundaries and (centre) plays (PCB) said the 47-year-old will The tourists, who won the first three sixes. a shot as act as the head of a four-man Test by an innings and 248 runs Senior pro Mahela Jayawardene Bangladesh selection panel besides being the in Dhaka last week, recovered helped close friend and long-time captain director of game development. from 49-2 to a comfortable 314-5 ally Sangakkara put on 178 for Mushfiqur The director role encompasses by stumps on the opening day at the third wicket after Sri Lanka Rahim (left) everything from grassroots to the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury were reduced to 49-2 soon after and Imrul first-class cricket. Stadium. the first hour. Kayes look Pakistan has not had a chief Left-handed Sangakkara was Jayawardene, who compiled an on during the selector since the Islamabad unbeaten on 160, his 34th Test unbeaten 203 in the Dhaka Test, high court first day of hundred that drew him level continued his good form with 72 last month the second with retired Sunil Gavaskar and before being leg-before to off-spin- suspended Brian Lara in the all-time list of ner Mohammad Mahmudullah in Test match all deci- century-makers. the final session. at The Zahur sions The four above them -- Sachin Shakib Al Hasan removed Ahmed taken by Tendukar (51 centuries), Jacques Dinesh Chandimal and skipper Chowdhury interim Angelo Mathews before stumps Stadium in cricket Scoreboard as Sri Lanka slipped from 227-2 Chittagong, board to 312-5, but were still in a good yesterday. chief Sri Lanka (I innings) position after the opening day’s Najam D Karunaratne c Mahmudullah b Al-Amin 31 play. Sethi, K Silva lbw b Gazi ...... 11 Chandimal said Sangakkara whose K Sangakkara (batting) ...... 160 and Jayawardene were an inspi- tenure M Jayawardene lbw b Mahmudullah ...... 72 ration for the entire team. Sangakkara did. “We have to get ended with Sri Lanka on 71-2. at a wide ball from Al-Amin and began in D Chandimal c Kayes b Shakib ...... 27 “They are wily old foxes and an as many runs as possible, because Openers Dimuth Karunaratne was caught at point. Sangakkara, July 2013. A Mathews b Shakib ...... 5 inspiration for all,” he said. “We batting will be difficult in these and Kaushal Silva managed just who reached his half-century by Sethi K Vithanage (batting) ...... 0 can learn so much from them. conditions later.” eight runs in the first eight overs lofting Mahmudullah for a six had appointed former captain Extras (B-5, LB-2, NB-1) ...... 8 They work hard during practice Bangladesh, chasing a series- and plodded to 30-0 after 15 when over mid-wicket, lit up proceed- and wicketkeeper Moin Khan as Total (for 5 wkts) ...... 314 and they always talk about cricket levelling win, were set for a long Bangladesh broke through. ings further with three bounda- chief selector. Fall of wickets: 1-39, 2-49, 3-227, 4-294, even when they are off the field. haul on the slow pitch after Sri Off-spinner Sohag Gazi, ries in one over from Gazi. Sohail’s appointment is the 5-312. “This is not an easy wicket Lanka won the toss and chose to who shared the new ball with Sri Lanka went into the Test first major decision by Zaka Bowling: Al-Amin 19-4-56-1 (nb1); Gazi to bat on because the ball came bat. Al-Amin Hossain, claimed first without frontline left-arm spin- Ashraf who was reinstated as 30-4-98-1; Razzak 4-1-6-0; Shakib 15-1- really slow off it. It is impor- But the hosts removed both Test century-maker Silva leg- ner Rangana Herath and seamer PCB chairman in January, eight 70-2; Mahmudullah 22-2-70-1; Nasir 1-0-2- tant that when you get set, you openers in quick succession just before for 11. Shaminda Eranga, who were both months after being suspended by 0; Shamsur 1-0-5-0 definitely have to bat throughout after the drinks break to share Left-hander Karunaratne set- ordered to return home due to the court over dubious elections. the innings. And that is what the morning session which tled in to score 31 but then slashed injuries. AFP Sohail, an attacking left- handed batsman who played 47 Tests and 156 one-day interna- tionals for Pakistan and was a Clarke backs ICC move to give trio more power major part of the World Cup win- ning team in 1992 said he will do LONDON: England and Wales this year with their broadcast earn more through this pro- to replace the competition with for the 10 Test-playing nations. his best to lift the team. Cricket Board (ECB) chairman and sponsorship rights for the posal. No one doubts that India’s the Champions Trophy one-day “The ICC has agreed to estab- “Pakistan team is doing well in Giles Clarke has defended the period 2015-2023,” Clarke told the contribution to world cricket is tournament that was originally lish a Test match fund of $12.5m one-day matches and Twenty20 International Cricket Council’s ECB website (www.ecb.co.uk) on extremely important and that dropped from the schedule after per country over eight years and I will try to further lift that (ICC) decision to give Australia, Tuesday. should be recognised. the 2013 edition in England. available to all except England, as well as our showings in the Test England and India more power “The ICC president (Alan “However, it was interesting “The world Test championship India and Australia - which will matches,” Sohail told reporters. in the sport. Isaac) asked India, Australia and to see that both West Indies and was an interesting concept but allow those countries which find Aamir’s first task will be to It was announced after a ourselves ... to come up with a New Zealand were quick to point we must remember Test match Test cricket difficult to sustain select the national squad for the board meeting in Dubai last proposal that will guarantee the out the advantages to them. cricket has never been a knockout economically the opportunity to Asia Cup to be held in Bangladesh month that a new ICC executive participation of all nations in “West Indies said that they format,” he said. continue to stage Test matches,” from February 25 - March 8. committee would be established those events (because without were expecting a rise of 100 per- “It was very difficult to find a he explained. Sohail backed Test and one-day to include representatives from that guarantee the rights would cent in income. No member would formula for a short, sharp compe- “This is vital for countries like captain Misbah-ul Haq. the ECB, Cricket Australia and be seriously devalued) and at the earn less and if our predictions tition that would appeal to cricket West Indies and Sri Lanka, not to “Misbah has led the team the Board of Control for Cricket same time benefit all countries. are correct most will earn an supporters and also broadcasters forget New Zealand. well and I don’t need to defend in India. That is what we have done.” awful lot more. How can that be and sponsors. “At the same time the ICC will him,” said Sohail of the 39-year- However, the plan has received Clarke, ECB chairman since bad for cricket?”. “Countries that have ‘finals’ for increase the prize money for the old Misbah. “We have to work widespread criticism with some 2007, denied that only Australia, The world Test championship, their four-day competitions have Test rankings so not only is there together and powers matter much suggesting the ‘big three’ will take England and India would benefit due to take place in England in found they often fail to produce an incentive to play Test cricket less to me than solving problems.” over at the expense of the other from the changes. 2017, has been scrapped under the exciting cricket.” but also an incentive to do well in This will be Aamir’s second cricketing nations. “The perception is completely new plans. Clarke said the executive com- that format,” added Clarke. tenure as chief selector, having “The ICC need to go to market wrong,” he said. “All countries Clarke defended the decision mittee would create a new fund REUTERS held the post in 2003. AFP Stage set for the Qatar leg of EFG Sailing Arabia – The Tour

DOHA: The countdown to the start of 2014 EFG Sailing Arabia – The Tour has begun with the six crews touching down in Bahrain to make their final sail- ing preparations. The fleet of identical Farr 30 boats will be based at the Amwaj Marina in Manama until February 9 when they set off on the first leg in Qatar, a distance of 100 nautical miles which will be an opportunity for all crews to lay down vital markers in the region’s only long distance offshore sail- ing race. One of the teams that are meet- ing for the first time in Bahrain is Sidney Gavignet’s professional team. They have done zero training together but despite that, have emerged as the boat to beat in the 760nms endurance race around the Gulf due to the sheer exper- tise and experience on board, including two of Oman’s young sailing prospects Ali Al Balushi and Mohammed Al Mujaini. Boats taking part in the 2014 EFG Sailing Arabia – The Tour practising at the Amwaj Marina in Manama, Bahrain yesterday. The fleet of identical Farr 30 boats will be based at the Amwaj “We’ll have two days of train- Marina in Manama until February 9 when they set off on the first leg to Qatar. EFG Sailing Arabia – The Tour 2014 will continue to Qatar, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Dibba and ing just before the start,” said Mussanah in Oman with competitors crossing the finish line on February 24 in Muscat. Gavignet. “On paper we have a very good team compared to the others and so they could spring a surprise. students, are the most prepared of EFG Sailing Arabia – The Tour 2014 SATT for a couple of months. events designed to let local sailors we will be going all out to win. We are expecting a very intense all with more than eight months 2014 will continue from Qatar. This is a professional crew and I see the state-of-the-art Farr 30 Our sponsors EFG International race – you arrive at night, go sail- of training behind them, but like The other stops for the Tour will think they have become very good One Design boats up close. As the want us to win so we will be try- ing in shore the next day then all the crews flying in from a be Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ras Al in their roles on the boat and in only event of its kind in the gulf ing to make them happy.” leave on the next leg early the chilly northern Europe, they will Khaimah, Dibba and Mussanah in the race.” region, EFG Sailing Arabia – The “But Messe Frankfurt Sailing following morning. It will be fun.” have to do a lot of adjusting before Oman with competitors crossing Along the way, teams will com- Tour 2014 – the fourth edition Team are bringing their own boat Messe Frankfurt Sailing Team, they set off under a hot sun on the line on February 24 in Muscat. pete against each other in exciting promises to be a thrilling event. and were definitely fast last year the team comprised mainly of February 9. year and have been training for in-port racing and take part in THE PENINSULA WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2014 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 31

Riders take off for the first stage of the Olympics: 2014 Ladies Tour of Qatar from Museum of Islamic Art in Doha yesterday. A total of 88 riders finished the stage in Mesaieed after IOC tours the cyclists completed a distance of 97kms. Today’s stage two will start near Al Zubara Games village, Fort and ends at Madinat Al Shamal. remembers Volgograd victims SOCHI, RUSSIA: International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach paid tribute to victims of the recent bombing in Volgograd during a tour of the Sochi Games athletes village yesterday. Bach, who was elected head of the IOC in September, also said people of all ‘perspectives’ were welcome at the Olympics. Russia triggered criticism and boycott calls for the Games when it banned spreading “gay propaganda” to children in June. Critics have denounced the law as discriminatory and said it was a curb on rights to free speech and assembly. Russia is gearing up for its first winter Olympics, which start on February 7. “We remember and grieve for the innocent victims of conflict and especially the recent victims of Volgograd,” Bach said at the Wild takes opening stage athletes compound, with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Kozak and top IOC officials look- ing on. The December bombings, which killed 34 people, were aimed at derailing the Olympics, on in close Mesaieed finish which President Vladimir Putin has staked his and his country’s reputation. Ladies Tour of Qatar: It was not easy. I told myself to stay calm: Wild The Games at the Black Sea resort, which have become the most expensive at more than BY RIZWAN REHMAT $50bn, are being held under tight security as Islamic militants in DOHA: Defending champion the nearby north Caucasus bat- and three-time winner Kirsten tle for independence from Russia. Wild of the Netherlands yes- One of their leaders had urged terday laid down a marker for Kristen Wild of fighters to stop the Games from the next three days by grabbing Netherlands taking place. the opening stage at the Ladies celebrates winning “Our presence here today is a Tour of Qatar with a convincing stage one of 2014 rebuke to those whose motives sprint to the finish line. Ladies Tour of and goals stand in sharp contrast Timing her final sprint to Qatar in Mesaieed to the spirit of harmony and glo- perfection in the last 200m, the yesterday. The 6th bal solidarity at these Games,” well-built Dutch cyclist overcame edition of the Ladies said Bach. windy conditions to take stage one Tour of Qatar started The German also made a veiled and the yellow jersey in a time of the same way the reference to the furore regarding 2 hours 09:56 seconds. last one ended - the anti-gay propaganda law. The Giant-Shimano rider with a victory for “Men and women from dif- topped the 97km stage ahead of star sprinter Wild. ferent backgrounds, different Australia’s Shelley Olds and arch- cultures, different religions and The Dutch rider rival Chloe Hosking who was the different perspectives live side- from team Giant- third fastest rider. by-side in harmony,” he said of Olds, the Ale Cipollini rider, Shimano powered the athletes’ village that will placed her team on the front of to the line to claim house some 2,200 people from 47 the Doha peloton near the end of the first stage ahead nations. the stage before Orica-AIS began of Shelley Olds and “Here in the village, the to spread its wings. Chloe Hosking. remarkable diversity of human Sensing a kill, Wild left Olds PICTURES: SALIM life finds unity through sport,” he and Hosking behind to close out MATRAMKOT said before a quick game of table a fantastic stage win, her seventh tennis, a tour of the gym and the in Qatar in six years. athletes restaurant. Wild, 31, won both the sprints at Mesaieed and Al Waukair to add six crucial points to beef her Pole vault star overall tally to 21. Olds has 14 points while the young rider’s ‘White Pearl’ Hopefully I could walk away with Under bright sunshine, the pack Bronzini - former world champion Isinbayeva Hosking - who finished third yes- jersey, said she was thrilled to a top-three. Hopefully I can repay remained bunched at a fairly fast and three-time stage winner in terday - has 10 points. start her Qatar campaign on a the faith of my team-mates,” pace (46.1kms covered during Qatar - was missing. to return to “It was not easy,” Wild said bright note. Hoskins said. the first hour) all the way to the The advantage of the front rid- when asked to recap her domi- “This is my first time in Qatar. Earlier the 6th edition of the final circuit that was to be rid- ers grew from 35” to a maximum nance yesterday. I didn’t know what to expect,” Ladies Tour of Qatar started the den twice. 1’05 with 25 kilometres to go. training in ’15 “I told myself to stay calm. I had Hoskins said. “But I am very same way the last one ended: with The first intermediate sprint, The leading ladies stayed put a wonderful team to help me out. happy to walk off with a jersey. a victory for star sprinter Wild. at the first crossing of the line all the way to the finish, enjoying SOCHI: Double Olympic I had to finish it the way I liked,” We have a strong team. So hope- The Dutch rider from team (35.50km) was claimed by Wild a 34” lead with 5kms to go. pole vault champion Yelena the 31-year-old added. “I take it fully we can hang on to the jersey Giant-Shimano, part of a group ahead of Elizabeth Armistead and The decision was made in a Isinbayeva has her sights set on day by day,” Wild said when asked and maybe get a stage win or two of 20 riders that managed to Hoskins. final bunched sprint that Wild a third gold medal at the 2016 about her chances in the second along the way,’ she added. pull away in the last 30 kilome- The first decisive move was conquered in style. Rio Games but will not return stage today. “I think it would be “All the girls are feeling strong. tres, powered to the line to claim made at the 57-km mark when Winner of the 2009, 2010 and to training until next year. more of the same. Maybe we could Emma (Johansson) led me out. I this first stage ahead of Olds and the front runners made the best 2013 editions of the event, the Isinbayeva, voted Russian ath- see a small group (at the end) but didn’t have the legs. Hopefully I Hosking. of the crosswind to pull away. Dutch sprinter takes command lete of the year in 2013 and the I will try to be there,” she added. can do a better job in the second The 88 riders representing 15 Eventually 20 riders managed of the General Classification as ceremonial mayor of the athletes “I am happy with this stage stage,” the Australian said. different teams took off in ideal a decent enough break. well as the points’ standings while village at the Sochi Games, won win,” Wild, who also wears the “I was hoping for a good result, conditions from the Museum of In the group were the likes Hoskins will start today’s second gold in Athens and Beijing but silver jersey, said. to be honest,” Hoskins said. “The Islamic Art for a 97-kilometre of Wild, Hosking, Armistead stage wearing the ‘White Pearl’ could do no better than bronze Melissa Hoskins - who grabbed team has put a lot of trust in me. stage all the way to Messaieed. and Olds, but somehow Georgia jersey. THE PENINSULA in London in 2012. “I do not plan to start train- LEFT: Qatar ing soon,” she said during a tour Top-10 riders after stage one of the village. “I would like to try Cycling 1 Kirsten Wild (Ned) Team Giant - Shimano 2 hours 09:56 seconds Federation and compete at the Rio Olympics. 2 Shelley Olds (USA) Ale Cipollini (QCF) Rio will be fantastic. I know the 3 Chloe Hosking (Aus) Hitec Products President Brazilian people and they will 4 Jolien D’Hoore (Bel) Lotto Belisol Ladies have a great Games.” Sheikh The 31-year-old returned to Khalid bin 5 Elizabeth Armitstead (GBr) Boels Dolmans Cycling Team top form last year, winning gold Ali Al Thani 6 Pascale Jeuland (Fra) France 7 Barbara Guarischi (Ita) Ale Cipollini at the world athletics champion- gives the ships in Moscow. Afterwards she 8 Melissa Hoskins (Aus) Orica - AIS yellow said she would like to have chil- jersey to 9 Iris Slappendel (Ned) Rabo Liv Women Cycling Team dren before Rio. Isinbayeva said Kirsten Wild. 10 Trixi Worrack (Ger) Specialized - lululemon running the village, which is the size of a small town, was far more Top-10 riders in general classification daunting than competing in front 1 Kirsten Wild (Ned) Team Giant - Shimano 2 hours 09:40 seconds of a large crowd. RIGHT: Mellisa 2 Shelley Olds (USA) Ale Cipollini 0:00:08 “On the track it all depends on Hoskins celebrates 3 Chloe Hosking (Aus) Hitec Products 0:00:11 you,” she said, sporting a colourful the ‘White Pearl’ 4 Elizabeth Armitstead (GBr) Boels Dolmans Cycling Team 0:00:14 Sochi Games jacket as she joined jersey. 5 Melissa Hoskins (Aus) Orica - AIS 0:00:15 International Olympic Committee 6 Jolien D’Hoore (Bel) Lotto Belisol Ladies 0:00:16 President Thomas Bach on a tour of the village that will house more Belgian cycling legend Eddy Stage two today: 7 Pascale Jeuland (Fra) France than 2,000 athletes. Merckx gives the silver jersey to From Al Zubara Fort 8 Barbara Guarischi (Ita) Ale Cipollini It is one of three villages at the Kirsten Wild. to Madinat Al Shamal 9 Iris Slappendel (Ned) Rabo Liv Women Cycling Team (112.5kms) first Russian winter Olympics. 10 Trixi Worrack (Ger) Specialized - lululemon AGENCIES Wednesday 5 February 2014 5 Rabial II 1435 Volume 18 Number 5966 Sport Price: QR2

Chelsea outwit Sangakkara Manchester lifts Sri Lanka City with century

Sport | 29 Sport | 30

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 England end Pietersen’s career The star batsman is shown the door by new ECB Managing Director Paul Downton

LONDON: Kevin Pietersen’s con- the country has ever produced. I to be one of the most talented and troversial England career came want to thank everyone for their exciting players to ever represent to an abrupt end after officials fantastic support and I wish the the country and his 13,797 runs are announced yesterday they “unani- team the very best of success going a testimony to his immense skill..we mously” wanted to rebuild the side forward.” all wish Kevin the very best in the England batsman without the star batsman. Pietersen added: “I believe I have rest of his career.” Kevin Pietersen In a joint statement with their a great deal still to give as a crick- Pietersen’s nine-year interna- walks off the 33-year-old former captain, the ECB eter. I will continue to play but tional career saw him establish pitch during the announced they’d left Pietersen out deeply regret that it won’t be for himself as one of the world’s leading fifth and final Test of their forthcoming squads for both England.” batsmen and this decision is bound against Australia the upcoming one-day international Downton, who only recently over- to lead to questions about the ECB’s in Sydney in this tour of the West Indies and the saw the departure of England coach ability to ‘handle’ star players, given January 2014 file World Twenty20 in Bangladesh. Andy Flower following the Ashes he remains the most talented mem- photo. Pietersen’s Recently-appointed ECB thrashing, said: “Clearly this was a ber of their current top-order. England career Managing Director Paul Downton tough decision because Kevin has But the South Africa-born shot- has come to an said Pietersen’s international career been such an outstanding player maker’s time in the England camp end after he was was being terminated because of a for England as the fact that he is has also been beset by off-field prob- ignored by the need to “rebuild” following the team’s the country’s leading run scorer in lems that saw him fall-out with selectors for 5-0 Ashes series loss in Australia. international cricket demonstrates.” two national team coaches in Peter the forthcoming In the statement, Pietersen said: Downton added: “However every- Moores and Flower, who stepped “Playing cricket for my country has one was aware that there was a need down from his post on January 31. squads for both the been an honour. Although I am obvi- to begin the long term planning Significantly, Pietersen was upcoming One-Day ously very sad the incredible journey after the Australia tour. Therefore briefly dropped from the England International tour of has come to an end, I’m also hugely we have decided the time is right team in 2012 after sending text mes- the West Indies and proud of what we, as a team, have to look to the future and start to sages alleged to be critical of then the World Twenty20 achieved over the past nine years.” rebuild not only the team but also England captain Andrew Strauss to in Bangladesh. He added: “I feel extremely for- team ethic and philosophy.” South African players. tunate to have played at a time of The former England ‘keeper said: However, he was soon “reinte- great success for England cricket “England cricket owes a debt of grated” into the team under new alongside some of the best cricketers gratitude to Kevin who has proved captain Alastair Cook. REUTERS