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Qatar keen to Battle for second strengthen SME place hots up sector: Minister in QSL

THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 • 7 Rajab 1437 • Volume 21 • Number 6766 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar

Emir meets Erdogan Payments at Women’s Cabinet move Hospital go cashless to boost private The Peninsula DOHA: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has introduced cashless payment system for outpatient appointments at Women’s Hospital. sector role Patients going to Women’s Hospital for appointments will now need to pay by credit, debit or e-cash card — a new card available at Qatar National Bank for QR20. The card can be topped up and used to pay for government services. controls and programs to encour- Patients that have appointments for consultations or age private sector participation in ultrasonography will be able to pay at the counter they reg- Cabinet also such projects. The committee will ister at, instead of visiting the cashier. The cashless system approves draft also follow up on implementation of will also allow any subsequent payments for services to the projects and develop necessary be taken at the registration counter. This method will also decision to set up solutions to overcome the difficulties apply to pharmacy, allowing patients to retrieve and pay technical committee. and obstacles hindering the process. for their prescriptions more efficiently. The Technical Committee to Professor Mike Richmond, Acting CEO of Women’s Hos- Stimulate Private Sector Partici- pital said: “By eliminating a step in the payment process, pation in Economic Development we hope to save valuable time for the women and families The Peninsula Projects will be set up at the Minis- visiting our facilities. As our patients are familiar with pay- try of Economy and Commerce. ing in cash, we will implement this new system in a phased The committee will be headed approach, which will give people the opportunity to adapt by a representative of the Minis- to the change.” DOHA: The State Cabinet yester- try of Economy and Commerce and Intelligence Qatar will help Women’s Hospital take feed- day approved a draft decision on will have representatives from other back from their patients about the cashless system after formation of a ministerial group authorities concerned as members. Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani with Turkish President Recep Tayyip implementation, allowing the hospital to streamline their to promote participation of private It will support the functions of the Erdogan in Istanbul yesterday. The Emir is in the Turkish city to take part in the processes. sector in economic development ministerial group. 13th Session of the Islamic Summit Conference that starts today. projects. The panel will submit proposals → Continued on page 3 The cabinet, in its weekly meet- on fields and projects for partici- ing at Emiri Diwan chaired by Prime pation of government and private Minister and Interior Minister H E sectors in economic development Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Kha- projects, and suggest ways to sup- lifa Al Thani also approved a draft port and encourage the private Al Kawari hits out at racial discrimination decision to set up a technical com- sector in this regard. The Cabi- mittee with the same objective. net also approved a draft decision The ministerial committee will of the Minister of Education and By Mohamed Iqbal says H E Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al an inspiring role model for peo- the world in his struggle against Apart- be chaired by the Minister of Econ- Higher Education on implementa- The Peninsula Kawari, Cultural Adviser to the Emiri ple around the world in his struggle heid, construction after liberation and omy and Commerce and will have tion of some provisions of Law No. Diwan and Qatar’s candidate for the against Apartheid. embrace of tolerance and peaceful the ministers of Finance, Transport (18) of 2015 regulating the practice post of Unesco Director General. “I am pleased to convey to you on values. I would also like to praise the and Communications, and Munici- of educational services. In a speech at Mandela Hall in behalf of Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin bilateral relations between our coun- pality and Environment as members. The draft decision specifies DOHA: Acting against racial dis- Johannesburg, during his recent Hamad Al Thani, and the people of tries at the political, economic and The panel will be responsible for areas of educational services in crimination is a step towards visit to South Africa, in the pres- Qatar, their highest esteem for your cultural levels and the positive impact identifying areas for participation addition to the areas provided in achieving lasting peace between ence of diplomats, political, cultural wonderful country and the courageous it has had on laying the foundation for of government and private sectors Article (1) of the Law as follows: nations, because racial discrimina- and media figures, Dr Al Kawari example it set under the leadership dialogue and peace,” Al Kawari told the in economic development projects, tion has always entailed disunion, paid tributes to anti-Apartheid hero of Nelson Mandela, who became an gathering. development of policies, standards, → Continued on page 7 rivalry and confusion in societies, Nelson Mandela describing him as inspiring role model for people around → Continued on page 3 02 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 HOME

Premier meets SMEs delegation

Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani yesterday met a delegation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) taking part in the 12th Annual Meeting of International Network for Small and Medium Enterprises in Doha. He hoped that constructive outcomes would be reached during panel discussions to contribute to enhancing expertise exchange and cooperation to serve the advancement of SMEs locally and globally. Doha Bus launches night tour

By Raynald C Rivera West Bay, providing guests with the opportunity to see The Peninsula the beauty of Doha at night. The tour includes an inform- ative audio commentary in seven languages, including Arabic, English, Korean, Brazilian, Japanese, Chinese and German on the city’s highlights and history. DOHA: Doha Bus, Qatar’s first Hop-on, Hop-off open- A complimentary cup of hot karak, one of Qatar’s sig- top sightseeing bus tour, has launched a night tour service nature drinks, is served to guests. where residents and tourists can see the city’s iconic land- “Doha Bus is pleased to have added the night tour to its marks and impressive skyline in the evening. growing list of local offerings and this is a unique way to Lasting 90 minutes, the ‘once round’ tour starts from see the city. By starting at Souq Waqif and exploring key Souq Waqif at 7.30pm and continues to the Corniche to destinations along the Corniche and around Doha, vis- itors are able to see our city’s wonderful diversity,” said Khalid Alsuwaidi, CEO, Doha Bus. Night tour ticket costs QR45 (child), QR95 (adult) and QR235 (family) and is valid for 24 hours. In addition to the existing daytime city tours and night tour, Doha Bus has introduced a Qatar Foundation (QF) route that takes passengers through the ultra-modern and urban landscape of Education City, covering sites, includ- ing Al Shaqab Equestrian Centre and Mathaf Arab Museum of Modern Art. With these new additions to the QF route, the tour is constantly expanding with over 22 stops. Doha Bus Services will further expand with the soon-to-launch Sealine Beach Resort shuttle with paired weekend packages and Monster Truck bus trips into the sand dunes and speedboat sight-seeing trips from Museum Doha Bus takes media on a night tour. of Islamic Art. Doha Bus also provides school, corporate Pic: Salim / The Peninsula and group tours at very competitive prices. HOME THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 03 Al Kawari to promote cultural and educational initiatives

Continued from page 1

He said that racial discrimination has taken on new forms, hiding behind sectarian ideologies that made room for further hatred and calls for ethnic and cultural cleansing. “We have, in our contemporary world, concrete evi- dence of such acts, which includes widespread hatred, destruction of human heritage and incitement to reject others,” said Al Kawari. “These indications can be found in the consequences of campaigns falsely launched in the name of religion, and implemented as a form of slavery based on ethnic and religious grounds. “They can also be found in the consequences of the global refugee crisis that has unfortunately been used as H E Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kawari, Cultural an excuse for the spreading of intolerance, hatred and Adviser to the Emiri Diwan and Qatar’s candidate incitement for war between civilizations,” he added. for Unesco Director-General’s post, speaking at Al Kawari said that Unesco has diligently fought Mandela Hall in Johannesburg. against racism and racial discrimination since its incep- tion. From its earliest beginnings, it did not refrain from conducting intensive research and study on this subject, and took a lead role against racism in 1976, at its General the International Decade for People of African Descent Conference, with a Declaration against Racism and Racial (2015-2024). intolerance in order to further combat racism through The international coalition of cities united against education, communication and the establishment of laws. racism is an example of sharing experiences to further Global Citizenship Education is a creative tool that educate people against racism. “I am proud of this his- can promote understanding among human beings and toric moment and I am proud to be standing here on this strengthen dialogue between cultures, as cultural heritage land, where values of tolerance and fraternity have been is a form of soft power that helps to immunize communi- exemplified within the framework of diversity and mutual ties and build bridges of communication between human respect. beings regardless of their race, language and beliefs, said “I feel that my presence among you provides my can- Al Kawari. didacy for the position of Unesco Director-General with a However, cultural understanding requires tools for deep resonating humility and an appreciation for all cul- raising greater awareness and sensitizing people towards tures that follow your enlightened example. the consequences of “the Culture of Death and Hatred”. “I strongly believe that in my future role I will be able Perhaps the steps taken by Unesco to spread aware- to promote educational and cultural initiatives, which, in ness need qualitative efforts to invest even further, in their turn, will continue to spread prosperity and devel- a creative manner, such as with the International Dec- opment amongst the wonderful people of South Africa,” ade for the Rapprochement of Cultures (2013-2022) and he concluded.

Cashless ‘system at Bone and Joint Centre a success’

Continued from page 1 all of our facilities in the near future,” said Professor Richmond. Along with HMC’s Bone and Joint Centre, the “So far, we have piloted the cashless system with cashless system has been introduced at other government great success at our Bone and Joint Centre. We believe facilities including Primary Health Care Corporation, the this change has enhanced the patient experience and we Traffic Department and the General Directorate of Bor- are looking forward to implementing this system across ders Passports and Expatriates Affairs. 04 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 HOME GCC visitors up 11% in Q1

(241,008),” said Rashed Al Qurese, Chief Mar- an important platform to capitalise on the keting and Promotions Officer, QTA. strong demand from the Saudi market to rein- Number of Saudi tourists “This is due in large part to our shared force Qatar’s position as the destination of visiting Qatar increased by language and heritage, which allows tourists choice for Saudi consumers and travel agents. 16 percent to 280,255 this from Saudi Arabia to enjoy the excitement of He said the fair provides a unique oppor- visiting a luxury destination while feeling at tunity for QTA and its partners to engage year compared to the same home and ensuring their families are com- directly with consumers looking for their next period last year. fortable,” he added. holiday destination, in addition to travel agents “We will continue to build on this position- and other professionals in the leisure tourism ing, especially as we near the summer events industry. This is Qatar Destination Brand’s first popular among GCC tourists, including Eid appearance in Riyadh and being introduced The Peninsula celebrations in Qatar and Qatar Summer Fes- through a newly designed stand and renewed tival,” he said. emphasis on Qatar’s offering as a world-class Last year, 1.3 million visitors from the GCC destination with deep cultural roots.” came to Qatar, marking a 16 percent increase The fair until tomorrow expects to receive DOHA: The number of Saudi tourists visiting from 2014 and following a large-scale pro- about 20,000 visitors. More than 55 countries Qatar in the first quarter of this year increased motional drive that involved road shows in are represented through 219 exhibitors. by 16 percent to 280,255 compared to the same Gulf countries. Over 160 travel agents in the Co-exhibitors at QTA’s stand (Stand E-1) period last year, Qatar Tourism Authority region completed QTA’s online TAWASH train- include: Kempinski Marsa Malaz; Qatar Inter- (QTA) said yesterday. ing programme, which aims to equip travel national Adventures; Marriott Marquis City The first quarter of 2016 saw an 11 percent agents with knowledge of Qatar’s landmarks Centre Doha Hotel; InterContinental Doha - increase in the number of visitors to Qatar and unique tourism offerings. The City; Crown Plaza Doha - The Business from all GCC countries (403,023) compared to As interest in Qatar among Saudi tourists Park; Holiday Villa Hotel & Residence; Sap- the first quarter of 2015 (361,660), with most of and travel agents grows, QTA is stepping up phire Plaza Hotel Doha; Warwick Doha Hotel; the growth generated by Saudi Arabia. efforts to tap into the market through a strong Grand Heritage Doha Hotel & Spa; Somerset “Saudi Arabia tops our source markets in presence at the Riyadh Travel Fair it is join- West Bay Hotel; Al Sultan Beach Resort; CORP terms of its current size and rate of growth ing for the first time as a strategic partner. Executive Hotel Doha; Acon Travel; Amari over the past five years. The Qatar delegation, led by QTA, includes Doha; Concord Hotel Doha; Doha Downtown “In the first quarter of 2016, the number 18 co-exhibitors representing a cross section Hotel Apartment; Westin Doha Hotel & Spa; of Saudi visitors increased by 16 percent of Qatar’s tourism sector. and Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Conven- (280,255) compared to the same period in 2015 According to Al Qurese, the fair provides tion Hotel. Saudi visitors arriving in Qatar. QGBC campaign to reduce paper use in offices receives good response

By Sanaullah Ataullah number of participants registered at The event was attended by repre- The Peninsula the council grew from 20 at the begin- sentatives of participating companies, ning of the drive to 55 this year. They who shared experiences to push the are from consultancy firms, hotels, drive ahead. Many companies who schools, government organisations and marked the day were honoured by DOHA: Qatar Green Building Coun- construction companies, among others the council. cil (QGBC) has received good response Details were given by Meshal Al “We are continuing a nation-wide from local companies for its ongoing Shamari, Director, QGBC, at an event campaign through channels, including campaign to reduce the use of paper yesterday to mark the achievements of social media, to make Qatar paper- in offices. this year’s ‘No Paper Day Qatar’ cam- efficient, said Al Meshal. The council provided training to paign. The day was observed by QGBC “The campaign was launched 150 company staff to rationalise paper on April 7 with a call to companies and three years ago whereby it was noted consumption at their premises. The the public to conserve paper. that five million paper sheets were

Qatar Green Building Council officials with participants honoured for achievements during ‘No Paper Day Qatar’ campaign, yesterday. Pic: Baher / The Peninsula

used a day in Qatar. When we calcu- invoices and communications. But consumption has decreased at least lated, it was some 2bn sheets a year. It on April 7, we managed to slash at few by five percent in our hotel, thanks was too much so we thought to create hundred printed papers responding to the drive. We targeted 20 percent. awareness among people and com- to the paper conservation day,” said It is not easy but I am sure we will panies to reduce paper use.” Kuruvila Manipadam, a representa- achieve gradually,” he added. Participants are asked to stop tive of Movenpick Doha hotel. “We stopped printing rough printing rough draft, use both sides “Our General Manager Ghada drafts for communications and began of the paper and reuse papers as Sadet is very strict with regard to printing on both sides of the sheet,” much as possible, among other effi- paper waste and leads the conser- said Salman, a representative of SNC- cient ways to rationalise use. vation drive in the office. We are Lavalin ProFac Gulf Management Paper conservation in offices will asked to convince customers to which operates Msheireb projects. not only help protect the environment take invoices through email. We are “We need to print a large number but also boost administrative opera- also educating our clients about the of papers daily. Following the cam- tions, said Al Meshal. drive. Most of them happily agreed paign, we have become some seven “We usually print 2,500 papers to support us. “We have joined the percent efficient and are doing hard for our official works, including drive since the beginning. Paper to further cut paper use.”

Cadillac ATS 2013-2015 models recalled

The Peninsula

DOHA: The Ministry of Economy and Commerce, in collaboration with Mannai Trading Com- pany, dealer of Cadillac vehicles, has announced the recall of Cadillac ATS 2013-2015 models due to a defect in the coil antenna module that powers the rear defogger system in the driver side rear pillar. The ministry said the recall is part of efforts to protect consumers and ensure dealers fol- low up on vehicle defects and repairs. The minis- try said it will coordinate with the dealer to follow up on maintenance and repairs and communicate with customers to ensure repairs are carried out. It urged customers to report any violations to its Consumer Protection and Anti-Commercial Fraud Department through call centre: 16001; email: info@ mec.gov.qa; Twitter: @ MEC_Qatar; Instagram: MEC_Qatar; and the minis- try’s mobile app for Android and IOS: MEC_Qatar HOME THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 05 IWED wedding expo from April 26

The Peninsula

DOHA: The ninth edition of IWED wedding exhibition organised by Qatar Expo will be held at Katara Hall from April 26 to 30. Assistant Foreign Minister for Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad Al More than 70 exhibitors from Meraikhi with Khalifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari, General Director, QDF; Qatar, the GCC and India will show- Dr Ahmad Mohamed Ali Al Madani, First President, IDB; and Bill case the best wedding products and Gates, Co-chair, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, at the deal signing services in Doha. Potential custom- ceremony. ers and businesses from Qatar and the region with keen interest in bridal industry will have the opportunity at IWED 2016 to meet top fashion QDF signs $50m agreement designers, caterers, wedding planners and travel agencies offering compet- itive honeymoon packages. for advancement of Hadi Alzain Ali, Qatar Expo Chief Officials highlighting the event to be held at Katara Hall from April 26 to 30. Executive Officer said: “IWED 2016 has become an international desti- low-income Islamic countries nation showcasing the latest trends we have encountered from the public Katara Hall will run a prize draw for thousands of local and regional vis- in global wedding industry for all for specialized wedding services and a free wedding ceremony. The lucky itors, and will feature a daily fashion people in the Qatari society. We are the continuous growth in the wed- winner will be selected randomly show by famous designers, enter- QNA with the contribution of $50m at the keen to host this event annually in ding industry.” from the list of registered visitors. tainment programs and creative beginning of the pilot project, which Qatar because of the high demand On the last day of the exhibition, IWED 2016 is expected to attract presentations. will support millions of people to get out of poverty in Islamic countries in DOHA: Qatar Development Fund dire need of help. (QDF) yesterday signed a $50m grant He said LLF aims to develop agreement to contribute to the capi- primary healthcare, disease con- 22 tonnes of expired rice tal of The Lives and Livelihoods Fund trol, smallholder agriculture and (LLF) established by Islamic Devel- basic rural infrastructure. “We aim opment Bank (IDB) and the Bill & to reach 30 least developed mem- Melinda Gates Foundation. ber countries of Organisation of seized in Ain Khaled Assistant Foreign Minister for Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Asia Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad and Africa,” he said, adding the Al Meraikhi and other officials were project will have a significant role By Sidi Mohamed which belongs to a company.” present at the deal signing ceremony. in the advancement of these peoples. The Peninsula After one week of investigations and The grant facility known as LLF He hoped more donors will take part follow-up, the municipality received was launched to address poverty and in the initiative to reach $500m by accurate information about the store and diseases in IDB member countries. the beginning of next year. obtained inspection permit from Public Through the innovative facility, Qatar believes that human DOHA: The Health Control Section at Al Prosecution. A raid followed in collab- IDB, the foundation and other donors development, healthcare, education Rayyan Municipality yesterday seized oration with Al Saad Police, the official will support over five years poverty- and the agricultural sector play a big 22 tonnes of rice unfit for human con- said. About 6am yesterday, inspectors focused programmes worth $2.5bn role in the activation of the produc- sumption, in Ain Khaled. inspected the store and seized a large in IDB member countries, especially tion process in developing countries, The bags, whose production date had number of rice bags. in low-income countries. he said. Al Kuwari said the project expired since 2013, 2014 and 2015, con- Municipality inspectors also The agreement was signed is one of LLF’s innovative ones and tained insects due to their storage for a impounded equipment and plastic con- by Khalifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari, its partners have significant field long time in an unlicensed store, which tainers used in repackaging rice and General Director, QDF; Dr Ahmad experiences in the targeted sectors. had also been kept in a poor condition. printing new validity dates on the bags, Mohamed Ali Al Madani, First Pres- He also expressed optimism about An official of the municipality told in violation of the Ministry of Municipal- ident, IDB; and Bill Gates, Co-chair, the project and said he looked for- this daily: “A week ago, we received ity laws. Such a violation attracts a fine Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. ward to greater cooperation in the information from community sources of QR15,000 and permanent closure of Al Kuwari expressed pleasure next stage. Civic inspectors checking one of the rice bags in the store. about suspicious activities in the store, the erring outlet, according to the law. 06 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 HOME QA wins double accolades at TravelPlus Awards

The Peninsula promotes relaxation throughout pas- sengers’ journeys. Gold awards The award-winning airline recognise Qatar launched its new children’s activ- DOHA: Qatar Airways’ (QA) premium ity pack on board its worldwide in-flight services have proven again Airways’ premium network this January in partner- to be a favourite with global travellers sleeper suits and ship with Hasbro Gaming to provide as the international airline has been children’s activity kit. more entertainment for its youngest awarded two best-in-class accolades guests. The new kits offer more levels at the TravelPlus awards in Hamburg, of interactivity and playability, fea- Germany. turing Mr. Potato Head plush toys and QA received TravelPlus Airline Hasbro Gaming brand board games, Gold Awards; the first for its signature known for their suite of leading fam- Missoni sleeper suits and its recently board activity sets and meal boxes, ily entertainment properties. launched Hasbro children’s activity it can be viewed at https://youtu.be/ Featured titles include the world’s pack. LjgpMA__fJ0 favourite family gaming brand, Rossen Dimitrov, Senior Vice- QA won gold in last year’s Travel- Monopoly, and long-standing classics President, Customer Experience, Plus Awards for its exclusive Italian such as Twister, Guess Who and Con- Officials at the event. QA, said: “We are very proud once designer Giorgio Armani fragrances nect 4. The activity kits are available again to be honoured for delivering and Beauty First Class Male amen- on board and have been developed outstanding customer experience for ity kit and the Business Class Middle for children aged 0-2 and 3-12 years. all our passengers travelling together East amenity kit. Assessment for the Four kits, each featuring a differ- Queen Elizabeth’s 90th birthday marked with QA. Both awards recognise the acclaimed industry awards focuses ent game, are available to families airline’s high quality service and on wishes and needs of travellers, flying to and from Doha on long-and standing as a world-class airline. with selection criteria adhering short-haul flights. Young travellers The Peninsula Abdullah Al Rumeihi. historically close relationship with “From first class luxuries to fam- to trend, pleasure, luxury, usabil- can explore and play with glow-in- Sharma also welcomed sen- Qatar, but we want to celebrate not ily fun, our in-flight amenities are ity and style, all from a traveller’s the-dark toys and stickers, interactive ior Qatari figures from business, only the past but also to look ahead designed to make every passenger’s perspective. bags and a gadget stand. Kits for government, culture and sport, the to the future. This is a relationship journey more comfortable and add a Renowned for its hospitality, QA infants include a peek-a-boo Mr. DOHA: British Ambassador to Qatar, diplomatic corps and members of based not only on shared economic special touch by becoming great sou- offers First Class passengers on over- Potato Head plush toy and soft books. Ajay Sharma, yesterday joined the British and international com- and security interests, but also on venirs of their flight with QA.” night flights stylish and luxurious Children-friendly meals can be around 1,000 guests of the Brit- munities. They were entertained by the strong and warm personal con- QA released a fun video show- sleeper suits and slippers designed pre-ordered and are served in vibrant ish embassy to celebrate the 90th the Qatar Armed Forces band and nections established over the years ing Mr. Potato Head heading off on by Italian fashion house Missoni. and reusable Monopoly or Mr. Potato birthday of Queen Elizabeth II and Doha Jazz. between Qatari and British people. his holidays to celebrate the new on The sleepwear offers comfort and Head collectable meal boxes. the strong partnership between the He said: “I was delighted that so “In the coming years we look for- UK and Qatar. The Guests of Hon- many of the embassy’s friends and ward to continuing to work together our were Minister of Education and contacts were able to attend the closely in the fields of diplomacy and Higher Education H E Dr Mohammed Queen’s Birthday Party tonight in security, business, service, education, Abdul Wahed Al Hammadi and Min- honour of UK’s longest serving mon- culture and tourism; and strengthen- ister of Municipality, Urban Planning arch H M Queen Elizabeth II. ing further the relationship between and Environment H E Mohammed bin “Everyone knows the UK has a our citizens.” Vodafone offers iPhone SE with free data

The Peninsula network. Postpaid customers get 15GB of free data per month for three months, while Vodafone Prepaid cus- tomers will get 6GB of free data for DOHA: Vodafone Qatar has 90 days. announced that it is offering iPhone “Customers looking for an incred- SE, the most powerful phone with a ible mobile experience will be four-inch display. extremely impressed with iPhone iPhone SE packs the power of SE on Vodafone’s superfast network,” iPhone 6s in a beloved compact said Luke Longney, Director of Mar- aluminium design customers love, keting, Vodafone Qatar. featuring a stunning four-inch Retina “Our data-packed offers are the display and four gorgeous metallic perfect complement to the power- finishes, including rose gold. ful iPhone SE and we’re thrilled to With the exceptional perform- offer this choice to customers,” Long- ance of the advanced 64-bit A9 chip, ney added. longer battery life, camera innova- Customers can purchase iPhone tions including a 12-megapixel iSight SE at Vodafone’s flagship stores iPhone SE is the most powerful camera, Live Photos, the ability to located in Villaggio, Landmark Mall phone with a four-inch display. record in 4K and Touch ID, iPhone and City Center Mall or online via the SE is the perfect phone for everyone company eShop on www.vodafone. who wants a smaller phone. qa/iPhoneSE. For more information Vodafone is thrilled to offer bundles that will ensure a great data on iPhone, please visit www.apple. iPhone customers affordable data experience over its fast and robust com/iphone. Naseem Al Rabeeh Healthcare group offers help to victims of India temple fire disaster

The Peninsula

DOHA: A hospital group in Qatar has offered `50,000 (about QR2,750) ex-gratia for the next of kin of those killed in the firework dis- aster, which has so far claimed 110 lives and left 383 injured at a temple in the southern Indian state Dr K T Mohammed of Kerala, a top official from the hospital group Rabeeh Rabiullah, said. Chairman, Naseem Al “It’s painful to learn Rabeeh Healthcare that hundreds have been group, killed and many are bat- tling for life following the fireworks accident. Naseem Al Rabeeh, “Our group will give Mamoura; and Al Rabeeh `50,000 (about QR2,750) Dental Centre, Al Rawabi ex-gratia to the next of kin Street, Muntaza. of those killed in the fire- The fourth — Naseem work disaster and jobs to Al Rabeeh Rayyan — is the victims’ family mem- going to open in coming bers in our hospitals in the month. A multi-special- Gulf Cooperation Council ity hospital project will be (GCC) countries,” Dr K T announced soon this year. Mohammed Rabeeh Rab- In one of the worst iullah, Chairman, Naseem tragedies to have hit Ker- Al Rabeeh Healthcare ala, the major fire engulfed group, told the media. the 100-year-old Puttin- The group has three gal Devi Temple complex centres in Qatar — Naseem in Kollam district in Ker- Al Rabeeh Medical Centre, ala during a display of C Ring Road; Premium fireworks. HOME / MIDDLE EAST THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 07 Cabinet to issue draft law on marine vessels Jordan shuts Continued from page 1 education and training for people cargo. Under the terms of the draft law, the Ministry of Justice will estab- with learning difficulties on school law, the marine vessel are not allowed lish the Official Gazette and publish The areas of educational services curricula and the required skills. to sail unless it is registered. it. Laws, decrees, other legislative in addition to the areas provided in The Cabinet took the necessary The Cabinet also approved a draft instruments, and any articles will be Brotherhood Article (1) of the law include, tutoring measures to issue a draft law on law on the Official Gazette that will published in the gazette for informa- for government and private curricula, marine vessels after it was briefed be referred to the Advisory Council tion of the general public. educational training for development on the recommendation of the Advi- for its recommendations. The draft An official online site will be of individual and society, mind sport, sory Council on the law. The draft law law is to replace Law No. (1) for 1961 established for the gazette and an and practical training on mathe- defines marine vessels as all floating to establish an Official Gazette for the electronic copy of it will be published headquarters matical calculations, visual arts for vessels working in maritime naviga- government of Qatar, in the frame- on the same date of its issuance, in training in painting, sculpture, pho- tion or sports, or be prepared for that, work of updating legislation. accordance with rules to be issued tography and decoration works etc, and of less than two hundred tons of Under the provisions of the draft by a decision of the Minister. The authorities view the Broth- erhood as an illegal organisation Decision to close because its licence was not renewed office of group with in accordance with a political par- Decades after turmoil, Lebanese pine for peace grassroots support in ties law adopted in 2014. The Jordanian branch of the the kingdom seen to movement, which was formed in Egypt in 1928 and has affiliates be political. across the region, has wide grass- Anatolia roots support in the kingdom. The intervention of the secu- rity services “has the sole purpose AFP of influencing the upcoming elec- BEIRUT: Yesterday, the Lebanese tions and results”, Khatib said. people marked the anniversary Jordan is expected to hold leg- of the start of the civil war that islative elections by early next year. plunged their country into vio- AMMAN: Jordanian security serv- The Brotherhood boycotted previous lence and chaos for 15 years. ices yesterday closed the Amman elections in 2013 and 2010, crying More than 25 years after the headquarters of the Muslim Brother- foul. The Brotherhood’s second- conflict ended, however, the Leb- hood, the country’s main opposition in-command in Jordan, Zaki Bani anese people have yet to enjoy force, which denounced the move as Rsheid, was sentenced to 18 months domestic tranquility. politically motivated. in prison in February 2015 for criti- The older generations who Previously tolerated for decades cising a decision by the United Arab remember the war hope to never in Jordan, the Brotherhood has had Emirates to blacklist the organisa- see such dark days again, urging tense relations with the authorities tion. In Egypt, it has been blacklisted the nation’s youth to put sectar- since the Arab Spring uprisings that as a “terrorist group” and the author- ian and ideological differences shook the region in 2011. ities have cracked down hard on its aside. “Jordanian security searched the members, including ousted Islamist In Beirut, many buildings still headquarters of the Muslim Brother- president Mohamed Mursi who has bear the scars of the gunfire and hood and evacuated it before sealing been sentenced to death. shelling that once ravaged the city off the entrance with red wax,” said Hundreds of Mursi’s supporters known as the “Paris of the Mid- a lawyer for the group, Abdelkader have been killed and tens of thou- dle East”. Al Khatib. sands jailed since he was ousted by Saeed Shams Al Din, a “This is clearly a political deci- the army in 2013. 58-year-old engineer who remem- sion in line with what is happening The Jordanian branch of the bers the war, described the conflict in the region,” he added. Brotherhood accuses the authorities as “one of the worst in history”. A security source said that the of trying to exploit divisions within The Lebanese people had movement’s headquarters were the organisation. borne the brunt of the civil war, “closed on the order of the gover- Last year, the government Shams Al Din told Anadolu Agency, nor of the capital as the Brotherhood authorised the formation of a break- going on to urge the nation’s youth did not obtain legal authorisation” away group known as the Muslim to remain in the country and strive Graffiti on a bullet-riddled building in Lebanese capital Beirut to mark the 41st anniversary yesterday of for its activities. Brotherhood Association. to maintain peace. Lebanon’s civil war (1975-1990). Al Sisi defends islands handover

AP peace treaty. “We did not surrender During his stay, King Salman pledged our rights, but we restored the rights billions of dollars in aid and invest- of others,” Al Sisi said in comments ment to Egypt. CAIRO: Egypt’s president yesterday broadcast live. “Egypt did not relin- About two dozen activists staged sought to defuse a storm stirred up by quish even a grain of sand.” a noisy protest over the islands’ case his government’s declared intention “All the data and documents say outside the journalists’ union in to hand over control of two strate- nothing except that this particular downtown Cairo, carrying banners gic Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia, right is theirs. Please let us not talk that asserted Egyptian ownership arguing that he did not surrender about this subject again,” he added. of the islands. Others took to social Egyptian territory. “There is a parliament that you media networks to dismiss the pres- President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi elected which will debate the accord. ident’s comments as unconvincing. also reiterated Cairo’s position that It will either ratify or reject it.” Some of the criticism in recent Egyptian security forces had nothing Al Sisi went on to complain over days has focused on Al Sisi, who to do with the torture and killing of what he termed as the Egyptians’ acknowledged yesterday that nego- an Italian doctoral student abducted chronic distrust of their leaders, tiations with the Saudis over the in Cairo, an incident that has poi- saying it was pushing the country to fate of the islands were conducted soned ties with Italy. Rome recalled “national suicide.” in secrecy to avoid unwanted media its ambassador to Cairo in protest “You don’t believe that there is attention. of what it called a lack of coopera- a single patriotic man in the foreign Critics are calling for a referen- tion by Egyptian authorities in the ministry, the army or the intelligence dum on the transfer, arguing that investigation. agency? They are all bad people who a legislature packed with Al Sisi’s Egypt’s government maintains are ready to sell off their country?” he supporters — who gave King Sal- that the islands of Tiran and Sanafir said in a rhetorical question. man a tumultuous welcome when at the mouth of the Gulf of Aqaba Cairo’s decision to transfer cus- he addressed the chamber on Sun- belong to Saudi Arabia, which asked tody of the islands to Saudi Arabia day, complete with standing ovations, Egypt in 1950 to protect them from was announced when the Custodian chants of adulation and poems of Israel. Israel captured the islands in of the Two Holy Mosques King Sal- praise — can hardly be expected to the 1967 Middle East war, but handed man bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi give the agreement serious consid- them back to Egypt under their 1979 Arabia visited Egypt earlier this week. eration, let alone reject it.

Kuwait to deploy City Lifestyle launches BeYu national guard at oil facilities

AFP

KUWAIT CITY: Kuwait was to deploy national guard units to run and protect some oil facilities after workers announced a major strike for this weekend, a news- paper said. The units would start working at facilities in the oil-rich south- ern region, Al Rai said, citing unnamed sources. The oil work- ers’ union decided to begin an open-ended strike from Sunday after a dispute with the govern- ment over proposed pay cuts. Hit by the sharp drop in crude prices, Kuwait is introducing a new pay- roll scheme for public employees City Lifestyle announced the addition of German brand BeYu to and wants to include the 20,000 its make-up portfolio. The event was held at City Lifestyle shop at oil workers, which would mean cut Centerpoint Al Asmakh Mall yesterday. Pic: Baher / The Peninsula in wages and incentives. 08 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 MIDDLE EAST Syria peace talks resume as violence surges

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei bulk of its forces to withdraw. Yester- Russia stresses Lavrov stressed the importance of day’s parliamentary elections in Syria, this round of talks, which is sched- which caused the regime delegation transition as 10-day uled to last about 10 days. “The Syrian to delay its arrival in Geneva, are also negotiations get parties should discuss the new consti- adding to the tension surrounding the tution, and how they see the structure negotiations. under way in Geneva. that will ensure a peaceful transition The partial truce brokered by towards a new system,” he told report- Moscow and Washington, which ers in Moscow. took effect on February 27, had raised AFP A Western diplomat also said hopes for a resolution to the conflict, “there is more riding on this round” by bringing about a significant drop in than previous rounds, since de Mis- civilian deaths and allowing increased tura is looking to tackle the thorny aid deliveries. But humanitarian GENEVA: Talks to end Syria’s brutal issue of “what does transition away access has recently slowed again to five-year conflict resumed in Geneva from Assad actually look like”. a crawl, and escalating fighting in yesterday, but were clouded by a surge Before the meeting with de Mis- northern Aleppo province, parts of of violence threatening a fragile truce tura, HNC advisor Yahya Al Aridi Hama province and Damascus has on the ground. said the opposition would “insist sparked alarm. The UN-brokered talks in Geneva that there’s one topic on its agenda: Pro-government forces were on are aimed at forming a transitional the political transition.” Tuesday pressing an advance against government and a new constitution The main question will be the town of Al-Eis, held by Al Qae- followed by general elections to end whether the regime delegation will da’s local affiliate, Al Nusra Front, and a conflict that has killed more than agree to broach the issue of Assad’s allied rebels, the Syrian Observatory 270,000 people and displaced half future, which it until now has insisted Asaad Al Zoubi (left), head of the Syrian opposition delegation of High Negotiations Committee (HNC) and for Human Rights said. of the country’s population. is off limits. Mohamed Alloush of the Jaish Al Islam and member of the HNC delegation, speak to the media after a new Jihadists like those from Al Nusra But Assad’s fate remains a major De Mistura is “walking in a bit of round of negotiations at the European headquarters of the UN in Geneva, Switzerland, yesterday. RIGHT: and the Islamic State group are stumbling block. a minefield,” Al Aridi acknowledged. UN mediator Staffan de Mistura at a news conference in Geneva. excluded from the ceasefire. But in UN Syria envoy Staffan de Mistura Complicating matters further, a some areas, Al Nusra is allied with met with Assad’s key allies Tehran and surge in violence in recent days has bloodshed. “Right now, there are signs New York after a briefing by the envoy Syria’s plans to launch a Russian- rebel forces meant to be covered by Moscow ahead of a meeting with the threatened a landmark ceasefire that this (the ceasefire) is slipping on Tuesday. backed counter-offensive in Aleppo, the truce. Washington voiced concern main opposition High Negotiations agreed in February. This has piled and it is a much more delicate envi- Power said Moscow had to put the epicentre of the renewed fighting. Monday that an assault on Al Nusra in Committee (HNC) yesterday afternoon more pressure on the talks, which ronment for de Mistura to convene pressure on Damascus to “get the Moscow began an air campaign Aleppo could spread to more moder- and regime representatives later in the follow fruitless attempts in previ- political talks,” US Ambassador to the regime back with the programme”, in support of the regime last Septem- ate factions, and cause the truce to week, probably Friday. ous years to negotiate an end to the UN Samantha Power told reporters in adding she was “very alarmed” by ber, though last month it ordered the collapse and derail the peace efforts. Speaker of Libya’s eastern Chaos inside Syria regime holds elections Iraq House parliament slams UN envoy in govt-controlled areas prevents AP UN-backed government of Fayez Serraj cabinet vote can unite the country in order to combat an increasingly powerful Islamic State AFP affiliate. AFP TRIPOLI, LIBYA: The head of Libya’s Serraj arrived in Tripoli by the sea internationally-recognised parliament on March 30 and has so far been able to BAGHDAD: An emer- based in the country’s far east has crit- rally support of the capital’s militias and DAMASCUS: President Bashar Al Assad’s regime held gency session of Iraq’s icised the UN envoy to the North African many of the municipal councils in west- parliamentary polls in areas of Syria under its control parliament descended country, saying the diplomat is acting like ern Libya. The Central Bank and state-run yesterday, with some voting enthusiastically but others into chaos yesterday, pre- a “ruler.” Parliament Speaker Agila Saleh National Oil Corporation have also backed dismissing the elections as a sham. venting a vote on a new also accused the international community Serraj’s unity government. But he is still Assad pressed ahead with the vote despite the start cabinet amid a row over of trying to impose a unity government resisted by the Libyan officials in the east, yesterday of another round of UN-brokered peace talks political blocs controlling that goes against a UN-brokered agree- including Saleh, who was among Libyan in Geneva aimed at ending the devastating five-year con- key government posts. ment reached by Libya’s rival parties last officials facing EU sanctions for blocking flict, with a political transition and the Syrian leader’s Lawmakers argued December. UN-backed government. future key sticking points. and hurled water bot- The remarks reflect the rocky path UN envoy Martin Kobler is “acting as a Voters could cast ballots at some 7,200 polling sta- tles at each other in the that Libya faces towards unity. The coun- ruler and a judge, setting timeline, issuing tions opened in government-held areas — around a third parliament hall, forc- try slid into chaos after the 2011 uprising decisions” and paving the way for the unity of the country’s territory where about 60 percent of the ing a recess, MPs said. that toppled and killed dictator Muammar government to seize power in the capital population lives. Voting was extended by five hours by The political row comes Syrian army soldiers casting their votes for the Gaddafi, with an array of militias, includ- of Tripoli before parliament can vote on it, the electoral commission until midnight (2100 GMT), state at a critical time for ing extremist groups, carving out fiefdoms Saleh told Libya 218 television on Tuesday. television said, citing a “high turnout”. parliamentary elections at a military facility in Iraq, which is battling and backing rival authorities. “The intervention is clear,” said Saleh, Assad’s Baath party, which has controlled the coun- Damascus yesterday. to regain more terri- Since 2014, it has been split into two adding that “the international commu- try for more than half a century, is expected to extend its tory from the Islamic main camps — an outdated parliament and nity intends to interfere in Libya to serve dominance of parliament, although several parties are “I wasn’t afraid to come vote today,” one newly State jihadist group, a government backed by a set of Islamist its own private interests.” participating in the polls. returned resident said. Last month, the domestic oppo- and Washington has militias and seated in Tripoli, and Saleh’s In eastern Libya, the parliament “I voted because this election will decide the country’s sition tolerated by the regime called for a widespread expressed concern that parliament and its government based in headed by Saleh is expected to vote on the future. I hope that the winners will be true to the nation boycott, accusing the government of using the vote to the cabinet dispute could eastern Libya. unity government on April 18, in accord- even before being true to the voters,” Yamin Al Homsi, a gain leverage in the peace talks. distract from that fight. Western nations now hope the ance with the UN-brokered deal. 37-year old who voted in Damascus, said. The High Negotiations Committee, the main oppo- Iraq is also strug- Samer Issa, a taxi driver, said he had “fulfilled his sition body involved in the negotiations, has branded gling with a major national duty” by casting his vote. “Now, it’s up to the the election “illegitimate”. financial crisis caused winners to fulfil their promises,” the 58-year-old added. In Syria’s divided second city Aleppo, polling stations by low oil prices com- The presidency published photos of a smiling Assad and only opened in western government-held districts. “These bined with inefficiency his wife Asma casting their ballots in Damascus. “We have elections are a farce and I don’t believe in them,” said and corruption, and US been at war for five years but terrorism has failed to reach Mohammad Zobaidiyyeh, who works as a mechanic in Secretary of Defence its main goal, which is to destroy Syria’s social structure the eastern rebel-controlled neighbourhoods. Ashton Carter plans to and identity as safeguarded in the constitution,” Assad said. The vote is the second parliamentary ballot since the discuss Gulf states pro- In the ancient city of Palmyra, where Russian-backed beginning of the war in 2011. More than 270,000 peo- viding economic aid to Syrian forces drove out the Islamic State jihadist group ple have died since, and millions more have been forced Iraq during an upcom- less than three weeks ago, four polling stations opened. to flee their homes. ing trip to the region. Dozens of lawmak- ers held an overnight sit-in at parliament to pro- test efforts by influential political blocs to main- tain control of ministries, prompting speaker Salim al-Juburi to convene Wednesday’s session. Prime Minister Haider Al Abadi, who wants the cabinet to include technocrats instead of party-affiliated ministers, presented a list of nomi- nees at the end of March. But the blocs put forward their own can- didates and most of Abadi’s were replaced on a second list dis- tributed to lawmakers on Tuesday. Some MPs demanded the oppor- tunity to vote on Abadi’s original list — from which at least two can- didates had already withdrawn — but the session was adjourned Tuesday without a vote on either the old or the new lists. Angry scenes con- tinued yesterday when MPs threw water bottles and shouted at each other, two lawmakers said. ASIA / PHILIPPINES THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 09

Militants behead US to get access to more Philippine bases two kidnapped workers in Butig AFP Antonio Bautista air base on the western Philippine island of Pala- AP This is an evolving wan. The base is just 300km east of thing. We agreed Mischief Reef, an outcrop occupied MANILA: US forces will gain access by China in the 1990s despite angry to more military bases in the Phil- to do these five protests by the Philippines. MANILA: Suspected Muslim ippines than the five already bases with an China claims virtually all the militants have beheaded two kid- announced, US Defence Secretary understanding that strategic and resources-rich South napped sawmill workers while Ashton Carter said yesterday as he China Sea despite conflicting partial four other captives have been freed began a visit to the longstanding they could be more claims by Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam, in a brutal act in the southern Phil- Asian ally. and would be more, Taiwan and the Philippines. ippines that appears to have been Manila announced this year it Beijing has in recent months been influenced by the Islamic State would allow US forces to use five of as we see what else asserting its claim by occupying more group’s style of killings, military its installations, including an air base and where else is reefs and outcrops in these waters, and police officials said yesterday. close to the South China Sea. and building artificial islands includ- Army Col. Roseller Murillo said The agreement that went in force significant: Carter ing airstrips on some of them. police retrieved the bodies of the in January aims to strengthen the The Philippines has warned the two workers, who were made to Philippines’ defensive capabilities Chinese activity could be a prelude to wear orange gowns, in a village in amid a tense maritime dispute with region.” Carter is in Manila to attend Beijing declaring an air defence zone Butig town in Lanao del Sur prov- China, while helping the Pentagon Friday’s ceremony marking the end in the area. Washington does not ince on Tuesday. pivot more of its forces toward Asia. of an annual large-scale joint mili- take sides in the territorial disputes, The six workers were kid- “They will be more, these are tary exercise between the two allies. but has warned against attempts napped by gunmen on April 5 in just the five initial sites for rotational He is scheduled to call on Pres- to disrupt freedom of navigation in Butig. Four were released over presence” of US troops, Carter told ident Benigno Aquino on Thursday. international waters. the weekend after their employer reporters on his flight to the Philip- Carter said he did not know at Under the accord, US forces will negotiated with their captors, pine capital from India. this time how many more Philippine also gain access to Basa air base, police said. “The agreement provides for military bases would be opened to about 330km from Scarborough The kidnappings and behead- more sites in the future,” he said. US use. Shoal which was occupied by Chinese ings have been blamed on the Short-term rotations of US forces “This is an evolving thing. We vessels after a tense confrontation largely unknown Maute group and equipment through these five agreed to do these five with an with Philippine ships in 2012. The of militants, who authorities say facilities is “our favourite way of understanding that they could be other bases to be used by the US mil- have ties with Islamic militants having a presence, for US forces to more and would be more, as we see itary are a major army training camp from Indonesia and have used US Secretary of Defence Ashton Carter walks down from the plane upon operate in and out of the Philippines, what else and where else is signif- with its own airstrip in the north, black clothing with the symbol in support of our allies, of our broader icant,” he added. The five already and two air bases in the central and his arrival at the tarmac of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) of the Islamic State group in Syria networks of friends and allies in the approved by Manila include the southern islands of the archipelago. in Manila, yesterday. and Iraq. Hanoi and Manila to explore joint patrols in South China Sea

Reuters by the United States, which is holding proposed by Manila in January. They working closely in defence issues countries’ militaries since signing a information-sharing, military logistics joint military exercises in the Philip- could happen within a year, a foreign with Manila and Hanoi, and two of defence agreement six years ago. and defence technology, the sources pines to be attended this week by US ministry official said. “The two sides its guided-missile destroyers are The meeting between Vietnam’s said. Defense Secretary Ash Carter. are still talking about this,” the offi- currently on a rare visit to Vietnam’s vice defence minister, Nguyen Chi Vinh would tour Philippine bases, MANILA: Defence officials from the Vietnam and the Philippines cial said. strategic base at Cam Ranh Bay. Vinh, and Honorio Azcueta, the Phil- including a major naval facility. Viet- Philippines and Vietnam will meet would discuss patrols and exercises, The exploratory talks between Vietnam and the Philippines ippine undersecretary of defense, is nam’s state media has not reported this week to explore possible joint but a deal this week was unlikely, a Vietnam and the Philippines come agreed on a strategic partnership in scheduled for Thursday and comes the visit. exercises and navy patrols, mili- senior military official told Reuters. as ships from the United States and November to boost security relations as a court in The Hague nears a deci- Two Vietnamese frigates made tary sources said, shoring up a new “These are initial discussions,” Japan, which has its own maritime as China expands its presence in the sion in an arbitration case lodged by port calls to Manila in 2014 and a Phil- alliance between states locked in he said. “These may take time but we wrangles with China, have visiting strategic waterway and deploys mil- Manila. ippine warship may do the same in maritime rows with China. would like to move to the next level.” ships currently docked at Subic Bay in itary equipment in the Spratly and The ruling in the case, which Vietnam this June. Troops from both Ties have strengthened between The official spoke on condition the Philippines, which hosted Wash- Paracel islands. seeks to clarify parts of a United sides have played sports together the two Southeast Asian countries as of anonymity because he was not ington’s main naval base during the Their closer ties mark a bold step Nations maritime law, could dent Chi- twice since 2014 on disputed islands China’s assertiveness intensifies with authorised to speak to the media. Vietnam War. in a region where China’s economic na’s claim to 90 percent of the South they occupy. a rapid buildup of man-made islands The information was confirmed by The regional dynamic has shifted influence has made some countries China Sea, parts of which Taiwan, On Monday, Philippine Foreign in the Spratly archipelago, to which another defence ministry source in substantially since then, with the reluctant to take a joint stand against Malaysia and Brunei also claim. Minister Jose Rene Almendras was the Vietnam and the Philippines lay claim. Manila. United States now engaging Viet- its maritime manoeuvring. The South China Sea will figure first foreign dignitary to meet Viet- Both states are also on the receiv- Naval patrols between the Phil- nam’s military having eased a lethal Joint exercises would be one of in the talks between the two coun- nam’s new prime minister, Nguyen ing end of a renewed charm offensive ippines and United States were arms embargo in 2014. Japan is also the biggest steps taken by the two tries, as will bilateral exchanges, Xuan Phuc.

British academic Cooling off in scorching heat Before defecting, North killed in China: HK police Korean waitresses

Reuters shopped for backpacks

HONG KONG: A 60-year-old Reuters government denied the announce- British man who went missing for ments were aimed at influencing several weeks in late March, was voters in Wednesday’s parliamen- confirmed to have been killed in tary election. China, the Hong Kong police said CHINA: Two days before they sought China has said a group of 13 in a statement after being notified asylum in South Korea, the North North Koreans used valid pass- by Chinese authorities. Korean waitresses in the Chinese ports to leave the country normally Hilary St John Bower, who had coastal city of Ningbo shopped for on April 6, but did not say where they worked as an English language backpacks at a nearby store and paid went. China is North Korea’s main instructor at the Polytechnic Uni- relatively expensive full prices. ally and is known for sending defec- versity in Hong Kong, had been “I asked them ‘Are you going tors back to the North. dead for more than a week by the on a trip?’, and they said yes,” said About 29,000 people have fled time he was reported missing on one of the workers at the shop, who North Korea and arrived in the March 30, according to a police declined to give his name. “They South since the 1950-53 Korean War, statement. seemed happy.” including 1,276 last year, with num- “The victim was killed on the Another shop worker, surnamed bers declining since a 2009 peak. evening of March 22 in mainland Gong, confirmed the story. In Ningbo, shopkeepers nearby China,” the Hong Kong police said, Filipino children swim along fishing boats in Manila bay, Philippines, yesterday. A heat wave in the Four waitresses from the Ryu- considered the North Korean res- after receiving notice from their Philippines has raised temperatures alarmingly, with the heat index in the northern Cabanatuan area gyong Korean Restaurant visited the taurant and its pretty but secretive Chinese counterparts. recording 52.3 degrees Celsius. nearby store on April 5 and bought waitresses a curiosity. The police statement included three backpacks, each for the listed The restaurant, now closed, sits no specifics, however, on how he 199 yuan (about $31), even though on a newly developed pedestrian was killed, a possible motive, or they were often known to bargain, street for tourists that opened for why it had taken so long to con- the workers said. business in late September last year. firm Bower’s death. Two days later, 12 of the restau- Across the lane at a cosmetics Hong Kong media reported Nepal gets first woman chief justice rant’s waitresses and one manager shop, Jiang Jiang recalled the noisy, that Bower had a longtime girl- arrived in Seoul, the South Korean patriotic North Korean music sung friend and a son in the southern capital, in the biggest mass defec- by the waitresses, a routine deployed Chinese city of Shenzhen, and had tion case involving North Koreans at many of the around 130 North often travelled between the two Reuters Assembly approved the first post- political parties. An Oli aide, Pramod in several years. Korean restaurants around the places. monarchical constitution, which gave Dahal, said Karki would work as How they planned and executed world. Most remit revenues back to The Chinese Public Security women the right to “proportional acting Chief Justice until the parlia- their trip remains a mystery, but Pyongyang. Bureau in Shenzhen said they had inclusion” in all government organs. It mentary hearing. more details have quickly emerged “Not my style,” she said. Moving no information on the case when KATHMANDU: Sushila Karki also guaranteed equal property rights The president, who holds a cere- of this defection than most others. her computer cursor between April contacted by Reuters. became the first female acting Chief to daughters and required that the monial position, and the parliament South Korea has said it has 5 and 6 on a calendar, she added: The Polytechnic University Justice of Nepal’s Supreme Court yes- president and vice-president be from speaker are also women, further admitted 13 defectors, North Korean Some shopkeepers nearby said also gave no immediate response terday, ending the male domination different genders and communities. signs of change in a society with a restaurant workers who arrived on the restaurant appeared to have to inquiries about Bower. of top posts in the judiciary. The Constitutional Council headed tradition of male domination. The April 7, on humanitarian grounds. been closed for renovations several A U.K. Foreign and Common- The Himalayan nation, though by Prime Minister KP Oli recom- appointment of Karki, who was the The North has called it a “hide- months ago, but stories varied. Busi- wealth Office spokesperson said: still a deeply patriarchal society, is mended the appointment of Karki, most senior judge in the SC, has been ous” abduction of its workers by ness did not appear to be great. “We are providing assistance becoming increasingly inclusive, 63, to replace Kalyan Shrestha, who hailed by activists as a milestone in the South. The South Korean gov- An employee of the company to the family of a British national following the end of 10 years of civil retired on Tuesday. women’s empowerment in Nepal, ernment’s public acknowledgement that manages the vintage-looking reported missing in southern war in 2006 and the abolition of Her nomination is expected to be putting it ahead of its giant neighbour of defections is unusual. It also said grey brick and wood buildings that China and are urgently seeking the 239-year-old feudal monarchy confirmed by a parliamentary com- India, which has not had a woman this week that two senior officials line the pedestrian street, including further information from local two years later. In September last mittee, though this has not yet been as head of its SC Courin 65 years as from the North had defected, but the Ryugyong, said the workers were authorities.” year, a specially elected Constituent formed because of bickering among a democracy. that they came over last year. The very secretive. 10 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 VIEWS

ESTABLISHED IN 1996

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected]

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR HUSSAIN AHMAD [email protected]

EDITORIAL

Supporting Libya Irina Bokova, Director-General of Unesco, speaks during the first-ever hearings of candidates seeking to become the next secretary- general at UN headquarters in New York yesterday. Over the next three days, eight contenders are expected to take the podium he visit of Italy’s foreign minister Paolo Gentiloni before the General Assembly’s 193 nations to lay out their vision for the job and answer questions. to Libya on Tuesday, mainly to bolster the unity government in Tripoli, shows that the West has finally understood the urgency of finding a solution to the Libyan crisis. Paolo Gentiloni’s is the first visit by a Ttop Western official to the country since 2014 and comes amid reports that the Islamic State is gaining ground in the conflict- ridden North African state and it’s becoming a centre for people smuggling. Both pose huge dangers to the West because of Obama weighs bigger role Libya’s proximity to Europe. The international community now sees the unity government in Libya as vital to tackling both the raging jihadist insurgency and people smuggling. The current chaos in Libya is the result of the failure of the in Syria; endgame unclear West to act after the ouster of Muammar Gaddafi. US President Barack Obama has admitted that the biggest mistake of his presidency was a lack of planning for the future of Libya after Brett McGurk, the president’s spe- extend from the Lebanese border are skeptical that the president’s Kadhafi’s ouster. He now believes Washington and its allies could cial envoy to the global coalition to the Iraq-Iran border, solidify- consideration of more options to have done more to prevent Libya’s descent into turmoil following against the Islamic State -- is skep- ing a de facto Kurdish state that fight the Islamic State this week will the Nato-backed uprising in 2011. tical of the moderate Sunni Arab Turkey is determined to prevent. yield positive results on the ground. Asked in a Fox News interview to name the “worst mistake” rebel groups and dismissive of At Wednesday’s meeting, top Senate Armed Services Chairman of his presidency, Obama said it was “probably failing to plan for Turkey’s concerns about Kurdish officials will attempt to reconcile John McCain, R-Arizona, told me territorial expansion. American support for these groups Tuesday that Obama’s “incremen- the day after what I think was the right thing to do in intervening In the other camp are officials that have contradictory aims. talism” in Syria was problematic. in Libya.” Maybe the West couldn’t have foreseen the current who want to increase support to the On Capitol Hill, lawmakers in I asked McCain whether he state of affairs, but Libya’s descent has been gradual and Sunni Arab rebel groups that are both parties complain that the US supports deploying more special happened under the nose of Europe, not affiliated with the Islamic State is becoming steadily more involved operations forces in Syria and which could have intervened long ago. or the Al Nusrah Front. These offi- in Syria, without any clear plan for increasing training and arming By Josh Rogin The West now will have to invest lots cials argue that only Sunni armed how US forces and resources will of the Kurds there. He said focus- Bloomberg groups can drive the Islamic State be able to destroy the Islamic State. ing on the tactics misses the point. of energy and time to bring stability to from Sunni lands and then hold Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Connecti- “It’s not that I support them or Libya. The IS has grown phenomenally those areas to keep the terrorists cut, told me Tuesday that he doesn’t not, but it is mission creep with- in the country. Last year, the jihadists out. This camp’s big names come support any increased deployment out a strategy, so it’s not likely to The West seized control of Gadhafi’s coastal from the US Embassy in Ankara, of US special forces in Syria or any succeed,” he said. “They have to has failed in hometown of Sirte and has been oday, President Barack the European affairs bureau at more arming or training of local tell us what they are doing, how supporting fighting to expand to other areas. The Obama is to assemble his the State Department and the forces in Syria. many people there are, what their number of IS fighters doubled in the top national security offi- CIA, which has been working with “There’s not much about our plans are, and hopefully outline a Libya after cials at the CIA to discuss Gulf states to arm and train these prior training and equip missions strategy which as of now they do past 12-18 months and now stands at Toptions to increase pressure on the groups for years. that are an advertisement for its not have.” the ouster about 4,000 to 6,000, according to US Islamic State in Syria. With each The latter group has been future success,” he said. “You can The administration’s publicly of Muammar estimates. Libya is also complicating additional step, he risks drawing bolstered in recent weeks by new draw up all sorts of plans of how stated strategy is to deprive the Gaddafi. Europe’s migrant crisis. There are the US further into the conflict he cooperation with the Turkish gov- you can influence the battle space Islamic State of territory, money, concerns that European efforts to shut has spent five years trying to avoid. ernment to help Sunni Arab rebel on the ground, but very few of them troops and support, while working down the migrant sea crossing from The meeting of the National groups take territory in northern have proven true thus far.” with major world powers to find Security Council Principals Com- Syria, both near Aleppo and along Murphy has long been a skeptic a political solution to the Syrian Turkey to Greece will encourage more mittee brings together some of the the Syria-Turkey border. The Turk- of increased US military involve- crisis that would then enable all people to leave from North Africa. president’s top cabinet members, ish and American militaries have ment in the Middle East and argues actors to focus on the fight against Libya plunged straight into most of whom have been press- been coordinating strikes for the that the US should recognise the the terrorists. instability after the overthrow of ing Obama to allow them to do first time to support these rebel limits of American power and there- Syrian peace talks in Geneva Gaddafi with rival militias taking control of the country. It more to fight the Islamic State in groups. Now Sunni Arabs control fore resist using military solutions do provide some breathing room has had two rival governments since mid-2014 when a militia Syria. According to some reports, a large stretch of what’s known as in complex conflicts that develop for the US and its allies to pursue alliance overran Tripoli, setting up its own authority and forcing Secretary of State John Kerry had the Manbij Pocket, a crucial patch largely outside of US control. He that gradual strategy, and to con- pestered the president so many of land now infested with Islamic shares that view with President sider other approaches. If those the recognised parliament to flee to the remote east. A unity times to ramp up the military mis- State fighters. Obama, who speaks often about talks collapse, along with the cur- government has been stitched together and this government sion that the president stipulated The Kurds are also trying to the trap that slow escalation of US rent cease-fire, that breathing room must succeed to bring unity and stability to the country. Fayez that only the secretary of defense move into that very area in an military commitment can present will disappear, and Obama will be Al Sarraj is the prime minister-designate under a UN-backed could bring him military proposals. attempt to connect their eastern for policy makers. expected to have a plan -- not just power-sharing deal in December. “I am delighted to be in Tripoli One of those proposals on the and western zones of control. If But even those lawmakers who to ramp up the tactics that have for Italy’s emergency aid and to support al-Sarraj’s Government table now is to add 250 more spe- they succeed, Kurdish control would favor military intervention in Syria made only modest progress thus far. cial operations troops in Syria, a of National Accord,” Gentiloni said. plan that Defense Secretary Ashton Carter supports, two administra- tion officials told me. Another is to ask the president to authorize the military to directly train the Syr- ian Democratic Forces, a coalition of mostly Kurdish groups fighting Quote of the day against the Islamic State in Syria’s northeast. “We’ve got to get these guys The actions of the beaten and as soon as possible,” Carter said last week. “We’re look- Syrian regime, which ing for opportunities to do more.” Inside the administration, two are putting the camps have contradictory views of how to fight the Islamic State in Geneva negotiations Syria. One group wants to dras- in peril, must end. tically increase the training and arming of the Kurds, who some see as the most effective force Jean-Marc Ayrault against the Islamic State. This French Foreign Minister camp -- including some top Pen- tagon officials, leaders of the Joint Kerry ‘emphasised the US would welcome a constructive Russian role in anti-ISIL efforts. Special Operations Command, and

EDITORIAL TEL: 44557741 / 44557743 FAX: 44557746 / 44557758 P. O. BOX: 3488, DOHA, QATAR E-MAIL: [email protected] ADVERTISING TEL: 44557837 / 780 FAX: 44557870 CLASSIFIED: 44557857 E-MAIL: [email protected] SUBSCRIPTION / HOME DELIVERY TEL: 44557809 /839 FAX: 44557819 E-MAIL: [email protected] OPINION THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 11 How next US president should manage Russia

By Josh Cohen Reuters

epublican presidential candidate Ted Cruz calls Russian President RVladimir Putin a “bully and a dic- tator.” Republican senator and former presidential candidate Marco Rubio says he’s a “gangster.” Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton jokes “I don’t admire very much about Mr. Putin.” Even President Barack Obama is not immune from the name calling, describing Putin as “looking like the bored kid in the back of the classroom” and taunting him by calling Russia merely a “regional power.” There’s one problem with all these insults: Assuming he is re-elected in 2018, Putin looks likely to remain president of a resurgent Russia until at least 2024. This requires the next US president to deper- sonalise the relationship and develop a broader policy framework for manag- ing Russian-American relations, just as George Kennan did when he wrote his famous “Long Telegram” in 1946. What should this broader policy framework entail today? One possibility lies with the acronym “DCC.” This stands for Define, Contain and Cooperate. Here’s what it means. A file picture of US President Barack Obama with Russian President Vladimir Putin during G8 summit at Lough Erne in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland. Define First, Washington’s interactions vis-a-vis Russia must be defined strictly by American national interests. This means Assad, forced the United States to renounce While admitting three small and inde- to exist, and Russia possesses the world’s to cooperate with Russia to ensure Iran understanding that not every Russian action its position that “Assad must go,” established fensible countries into Nato was arguably largest nuclear stockpile with more than continues to comply with the agreement. — however much we may disagree with four military bases and demonstrated Rus- inadvisable, now that they are in the club, 200 buildings and bunkers where highly Finally, Washington and Moscow also it — requires an American response. For sia’s modernised military — but so what? the United States remains bound by treaty enriched uranium or plutonium is stored. negotiated New START, the latest nuclear example, when Russia’s bombing campaign Syria was the Soviet Union’s leading ally to defend them. To contain this threat, the Not surprisingly, in the majority of cases weapons reduction treaty between the in Syria began, Obama’s lack of response in the Middle East, and the United States United States is therefore right to reinforce where nuclear smuggling has been dis- two powers. made critics howl that by not responding, lived perfectly well with this fact for dec- its military presence in Eastern Europe covered, the material originated in Russia. The treaty requires both sides to reduce Obama demonstrated weakness. Others ades. Indeed, Russia’s intervention may yet via additional armoured brigades. While Given the risk that Islamic State could — as their deployed offensive nuclear weap- assert that Putin’s victories in Syria threaten help the United States, as Russian air-to- it should not seek out confrontation with a recent Nato report noted — “go nuclear,” ons to under 1,550 by February 5, 2018, American interests. ground bombing allowed Assad’s forces to Russia, the United States must also not shy the next president must put the resump- and includes numerous mutual compli- These arguments overlook a central recapture the key city of Palmyra while away from doing so if Moscow threatens tion of Russian-American cooperation to ance measures, including on-site visits. fact, though — aside from degrading and also killing 400 Islamic State terrorists. The the United States or its Nato allies. reduce the threat of nuclear terrorism at The good news is that despite the tensions defeating Islamic State, the United States bottom line is that a Russian “win” doesn’t Cooperate Finally, the United States the top of their inbox. over Ukraine, the Russian military con- possesses no core national security inter- always mean a United States “loss,” espe- should find ways to cooperate with Russia Russia was also very helpful in bringing tinues to uphold its end of the bargain. ests in Syria. Yes, Putin arguably “won” in cially if that win does not have an impact where our interests overlap — something the Iran nuclear deal to fruition last year, New START remains in force until Febru- Syria — he saved Syrian President Bashar Al on important American interests. which occurs far more often than many according to Western officials, particu- ary 5, 2021, after which a new agreement Contain While not every Russian “win” realise. One critical area with numerous larly in finding a solution to Iran’s desire must be reached. Reaching this follow- need be interpreted as an American “loss,” overlapping interests is reducing the threat for domestic nuclear power. By offering to on deal should be a top priority for the some situations do require the United States of nuclear terrorism and proliferation. For both build nuclear plants for Iran as well as next president. to push back against Russian threats. In par- example, under the Cooperative Threat supply Tehran with all the necessary fuel, The key factor driving all aspects of Assuming he is re-elected in 2018, ticular, Washington must draw a clear red Reduction (CTR) programme, the United Russia creatively eliminated Iran’s rationale US-Russian nuclear cooperation are the Putin looks likely to remain president line regarding any attempt by Moscow to use States spent almost two decades helping for needing a large domestic enrichment two sides’ shared interests. Both Washing- force against any Nato ally. Washington’s Russia diminish the threat of “loose nukes.” capability. Once the deal was signed, even ton and Moscow want to lower the risk of of a resurgent Russia until at least Nato allies in Eastern Europe — particu- The crisis in Ukraine, however, pro- Obama went out of his way to thank Putin nuclear terrorism. Neither wishes to see 2024. This requires the next US larly in the Baltics — fear this possibility. duced a collapse in Russian-American for his role in the negotiations. Iran obtain nuclear weapons. And both ben- As Russia’s relationship with the West nuclear security cooperation. The threat Moscow also plays a key role imple- efit from reducing their nuclear arsenals. president to depersonalise the began to deteriorate at the beginning of remains high. menting the Iran deal. In December, after The next administration should promote relationship and develop a broader the Ukraine crisis, Moscow stepped up its One report documented four separate the deal was signed, Russia took posses- American interests by cooperating with efforts to undermine its Baltic neighbours incidents where Moldovan police stopped sion of 8.5 tons of Iran’s enriched uranium Russia in other areas such as combatting policy framework for managing both by high-level intelligence penetration criminal networks with suspected Russian — including the fuel closest to nuclear bomb- global warming, fighting narcotics traf- Russian-American relations, just as of these states, as well as through numerous ties from smuggling nuclear materials — grade quality — leaving Iran without enough ficking and stabilising Afghanistan. military violations of the Baltics’ airspace. one of which involved a Russian gang trying enriched uranium to make a bomb even While demonising Putin makes for George Kennan did when he wrote Some even worry Russia may one day use to sell nuclear material to Islamic State. if it wanted to. Since Russia is a member good rhetoric, a real policy that seeks to his famous “Long Telegram” in 1946. force against the Baltics to challenge — Likewise, insider threats and corruption of both the United Nations Security Coun- further American interests is a better way and ultimately split — the Nato alliance. within Russian nuclear facilities continues cil and the P5+1, the United States needs to manage the relationship with Russia. UK forces offshore havens to become more transparent

“We regard the UK as one of the very top of its Financial Secrecy Index governments into ensuring their records country under threat get very angry biggest, if not the biggest, single player – higher than Switzerland, Hong Kong on company ownership and tax are when they see the super-rich not pay- in the global offshore system of tax or Singapore. more transparent and that informa- ing their way,” he said. havens (or secrecy jurisdictions) The Panama Papers, a vast collec- tion is routinely shared with the police UK Prime Minister David Cam- today,” the TJN said in its Financial tion of documents leaked from Mossack so that the islands are not simply used eron, who was himself criticised for Secrecy Index, a list that ranks coun- Fonseca, a law firm based in the Central as a vehicle for money laundering. not declaring that his late father had tries according to their secrecy and American country, have cast light on The treaties that govern Britain’s bequeathed an offshore trust to his the scale of their offshore financial the financial arrangements of friends former colonies allow the UK govern- children, has since announced that activities. and relatives of world leaders. ment to abolish their democratically Britain’s former colonies will now share It placed the UK in 15th place in 2015 Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of the elected legislatures and impose direct tax information with the authorities but, in an indication of the country’s main opposition Labour Party, believes rule from London. in London. By Michael Sercan Daventry global influence, more than a quar- they also showed why Britain needs This happened as recently as 2009, He told the House of Commons on Anatolia ter of top 25 territories on the index to reassess its relationship with its when the UK suspended the constitu- Monday: “There are basically three The Panama Papers, are former British colonies that retain former colonies. tion of the Turks and Caicos Islands things we’ve been asking the crown a vast collection of important judicial and administrative “All of them enjoy security and pro- following allegations of corruption dependencies to do. One is to exchange documents leaked connections with the UK tection provided by the UK, all of them among the ruling classes. A demo- tax information; the second is to have he Panama Papers did not They include Caribbean territo- are dependent territories, all have some cratic government was reinstated three a common reporting standard; and the from Mossack just expose the secret finan- ries such as the British Virgin Islands form of self-governance,” he told BBC years later. third is to establish registers of bene- Fonseca, a law firm cial affairs of thousands of rich and Cayman Islands, as well as Euro- television on Sunday morning. Corbyn said the latest revelations ficial ownership. They have now done based in the Central and influential people around pean havens like Jersey and Guernsey “We want openness on who owns showed the British people, having all three.” Tthe world. in the English Channel. those companies, openness on the endured several years of reductions He added: “What we’ve tried to American country, They also served as a reminder All are islands that enjoy consid- trusts and we want a tax regime that in domestic welfare spending and other do with the overseas territories is say have cast light that whole countries can be secre- erable autonomy and have their own is reasonable so that they all pay some areas of government, did not toler- there is a perfectly legitimate business tive too – chief of all, Britain. legislatures. All offer low or zero direct kind of contribution. It cannot be right ate large amounts of money being of providing financial services but they, on the financial According to the Tax Justice Net- taxation on their residents’ income. that we’re just allowing people to shift moved offshore by the super-rich to like us, should be doing it on the basis arrangements of work (TJN), a group of global tax None are independent countries. The resources offshore in order to avoid avoid tax. of high standards, not low standards. friends and relatives analysts, the UK and its former col- TJN said that if Britain was assessed taxation in the UK” “I’ll tell you, people that have seen I think that is an argument that they onies together account for the most together with these overseas posses- Corbyn argued Britain should be their local services cut, people that now accept and carry now and we of world leaders. secretive tax regime in the world. sions, it would rocket from 15th to the doing more to pressure the territories’ are seeing their health services in any should thank them for it.”

All thoughts and views expressed in these columns are those of the writers, not of the newspaper. All correspondence regarding Views and Opinion pages should be mailed to the Editor-in-Chief. 12 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 ASIA/AFRICA Quake hits Myanmar; no major damage

struck, but authorities there said are low-rise structures. there were no immediate reports of Since the area is remote and The magnitude-6.9 injuries or damage. the quake happened at night, a full quake struck at a An Associated Press journalist assessment of the situation was not who was in a hospital in Yangon at expected before Thursday morning. depth of 135km, the time of the quake said the six- In Monywa, a city 136km north- 396km north of story building shook strongly twice, west of Mandalay, Ko Hein Linn for at least a minute. Many people in Htet, a 23-year-old hotel reception- Myanmar’s capital, the hospital, including patients, staff ist, said there was no major damage Naypyidaw. It was and visitors, ran out of the building in the city, though there were some and began calling their loved ones. cracks along the walls in some build- felt in parts of “I was sleeping on my bed when ings. Zaw Myint Htoo, a 38-year-old eastern India and suddenly I felt the ground shaking. resident of Mogok, 200km north of Bangladesh. The first time it was intense, but Mandalay, confirmed there was no the second time it was lighter,” said major damage in that city. Aung Thu, 25, who has been spend- The tremors were felt in the ing nights at the hospital for the last eastern Indian states of Assam and AP week to take care of his elder brother. West Bengal, including in the area “I had experienced this kind of of Assam’s Kaziranga National Park, earthquake before, so I was not that where the Duke and Duchess of Cam- scared. But I was concerned because bridge are visiting during their royal Ballots arrive to be counted at a gymnasium in Seoul, yesterday. YANGON: A strong earthquake my brother is ill, and I need to take tour of India. The British High Com- struck Myanmar yesterday night and care of him.” mission in New Delhi said Prince was felt in parts of eastern India and He said he was on the third William and his wife, the former Kate Bangladesh, causing residents to rush floor of the Shwegonedine Special- Middleton, were safe. South Koreans vote for new parliament out of their homes in panic. There ist Center hospital, and as soon as he A failure at a power station in were no immediate reports of seri- felt the quake he called his wife and eastern Assam caused outages in ous injuries or major damage. son to tell them to be “prepared for several parts of the state. In Assam’s The magnitude-6.9 quake the worst.” capital, Gauhati, people rushed out- Reuters struck at a depth of 135km, 396km The quake was centered in the doors as they felt strong tremors and Ruling party to lose: Exit polls north of Myanmar’s capital, Naypy- jungle and hills around 220km buildings swaying. Cellphone services South Korea’s conservative ruling party may have lost its parliamen- idaw, according to the US Geological northwest of Mandalay, Myanmar’s were disrupted, and wall-mounted tary majority in yesterday’s general election, exit polls by three major TV Survey. second-biggest city. While the area is television sets crashed to the ground SEOUL: South Koreans voted yester- channels showed. The polls said the Saenuri Party was forecast to win Residents in Myanmar’s main city prone to earthquakes, it is generally at a local TV station. Police said they day to elect a new parliament, with between 118 and 147 seats in the 300-member National Assembly. The of Yangon panicked after the quake sparsely populated, and most houses were still assessing the situation. the ruling conservatives expected main opposition Minjoo Party was expected to secure between 97 and 128 to regain a majority despite a slug- and the splinter opposition People’s Party to win between 31 and 43 seats. gish economy and a four-year term considered one of the least produc- tive ever. Early voter turnout was low com- A strong showing by Saenuri tough position on North Korea fol- pared to four years ago, according to would raise expectations that it lowing a spike in tension triggered the National Election Commission, a will field the winning candidate in by a fourth nuclear test in January trend if it continues is likely to work a December 2017 presidential elec- and a rocket launch a month later. to the advantage of President Park tion to find a successor to Park at The party has been doing well in Geun-hye’s Saenuri Party. the end of her single five-year term. opinion polls with 37 percent sup- Assembly. Before recent defec- The country has a strong pres- port, according to a Gallup Korea tions, it held a majority with 157 idential system around a national survey of 1,000 people released on seats in the 300-seat unicameral leader who is limited to a single term April 1, compared with 21 percent for parliament. by constitution but has control over the main opposition Minjoo Party. Voters expressed frustration that domestic and foreign policy issues. South Korea’s economy grew 2.6 parliament has neglected real issues Park’s legislative agenda has percent last year and youth unem- such as jobs and national security in been slowed by a parliament often ployment reached 12.5 percent in Asia’s fourth largest economy and deadlocked by political squabble. February, the highest since the gov- focused more on protecting politi- Park has blamed both sides in par- ernment started keeping records in cal interests. liament for hamstringing her push 1999, compared with single-digit “I hope that parliament will be to boost growth, create jobs, and get joblessness in other age groups. more mature to mirror the maturity on with structural reforms she says The opposition is seen as of the voters and that politics can be are needed to fix chronic problems. unlikely to mount a serious chal- used for the welfare of children and Saenuri enjoys strong support lenge at the ballot box especially if People crowd onto the street during an earthquake in Agartala, capital of India’s northeastern state of young people,” Kim Jeong-yeon, 46, among older voters and it has sought disillusioned voters stay away, ana- Tripura, yesterday. said after casting her vote in Seoul. to cement that by emphasising its lysts have said. Malawi and Mozambique issue drought alerts as crisis spreads

AFP than 100 years. “I declare Malawi (in) conditions in the country’s central affected parts of the country,” WFP’s Mozambique have released a total of since January has also made delivery a state of national disaster follow- and south regions affecting 1.5 mil- southern Africa spokesman David $15 million since the beginning of of aid difficult due to attacks on roads. ing prolonged dry spells during the lion people. The government released Orr said. the crisis, Michel Le Pechoux of the “Some drought-stricken districts 2015/16 agriculture season,” President $9.5 million of emergency aid after “The situation is quite dire and we Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) are located in areas of military ten- BLANTYRE: Malawi and Mozam- Peter Mutharika said in a statement. 90 percent of crops were destroyed believe the worst is still to come. It which coordinates relief efforts, told sions and are almost inaccessible,” Le bique sounded alarm bells yesterday “The projected drop in maize har- in some areas and thousands of cat- will take a long time before the situ- AFP. Pechoux said. In Zimbabwe, 2.8 mil- over worsening food shortages caused vest is estimated at 12 percent from tle died from lack of water. ations improves. Any improvement in “But the response is still very lim- lion people -- more than a quarter of by severe drought as concerns grow last year’s output. The World Food Programme said the next months would be negligible.” ited compared to the actual needs, the rural population -- do not have over a hunger crisis spreading across “More people will be food inse- it was currently assisting nearly three In February, the WFP warned which amount to about $200 million,” enough to eat. The WFP, which is pro- much of southern Africa. cure and will require humanitarian million people in Malawi, with about that Malawi was facing its worst he said, adding that central Mozam- viding assistance for about 730,000 Zimbabwe, Lesotho and Zambia relief assistance for the whole of the 23 of 28 districts badly affected. food insecurity for a decade. The bique was the worst-hit area. Zimbabweans, has reported that cas- are also suffering food supply prob- 2016/17 consumption year.” “The current drought situation country has recently suffered flash Renewed conflict between gov- ual agricultural labourers have no lems, while South Africa has said the Neighbouring Mozambique issued in Malawi came on the back of a bad floods in the north as well as drought. ernment troops and the armed wing work and many children are missing recent drought was its worst in more a “red alert” because of drought crop last year, due to flooding which The United Nations and aid groups in of main opposition party Renamo school because of hunger.

4 held for plotting Myanmar Water Festival Amnesty urges probe on new year blast in mass burial in Nigeria Bangladesh

Reuters Reuters Zaria in December. The following day the army said it had raided sev- eral buildings connected to the sect. A Nigerian army spokesman DHAKA: Bangladeshi security NIGERIA: Claims by a Kaduna when contacted declined to com- forces have detained four sus- state official that Nigeria’s military ment on the mass burial allegations. pected members of a banned secretly buried 347 people after In January, the army chief of staff Islamist militant group who were clashes with members of a minority told the inquiry that his soldiers had believed to be planning attacks on Shia Muslim sect should be inves- acted appropriately in the raid. celebrations of the traditional new tigated and anyone suspected of Amnesty International Nigeria year, a police official said yester- wrongdoing put on trial, Amnesty said the “revelation by the Kaduna day. International said yesterday. State government that hundreds Bangladesh has seen a surge The official on Monday told an of Shias were gunned down and in Islamist violence over the past inquiry into the December clashes in dumped in mass graves is an impor- couple of years, targeting liberal the northern state of Kaduna that the tant first step to bringing all those activists, as well as members of corpses were taken from an army suspected of criminal responsibil- minority Muslim sects and other depot and buried in mass graves. ity for this atrocity to trial”. The Shia religious groups. The four mem- The army has previously said sect has previously said up to 1,000 bers of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen the Islamic Movement in Nigeria had of its members had been killed. The Bangladesh were arrested in an tried to assassinate its chief of staff, inquiry has the power to impose overnight raid in Mymensingh. Children wearing traditional clothing perform during the opening ceremony of the Thingyan Water Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, fines and payment of compensa- The suspects were believed to Festival in Yangon, Myanmar, yesterday. It is celebrated to mark the traditional New Year in countries when members of the sect blocked tion. Most of the tens of millions of have been planning to target cel- such as Myanmar, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia. This year, the festival runs from April 12 to 16. his convoy in the northern city of Muslims in Nigeria are Sunni. ebrations of the Bengali New Year. PAKISTAN THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 13 India trying to destabilise country: Army chief

Reuters neighbour, has openly challenged this Last month, Pakistan said it had resource-rich Baluchistan. It also development initiative,” Sharif told the detained a suspected Indian spy for accuses India of fuelling strife in the Indian intelligence conference in Gwadar. RAW in Baluchistan, the southwest- city of Karachi. India denies any such agency RAW that is “I would like to make a spe- ern Pakistani province where most of meddling. blatantly involved GWADAR: Pakistan’s army chief yes- cial reference to Indian intelligence the CPEC is taking shape. India has long accused Paki- terday accused longtime regional agency RAW that is blatantly involved India has confirmed that the man stan of backing militants fighting in destabilising rival India of seeking to undermine in destabilising Pakistan. Let me make is a former Indian navy official but Indian security forces in its part of Pakistan. Let me make his country’s $46bn project to build it clear that we will not allow anyone denied that he is a spy. the divided Kashmir region, of help- an economic corridor to transport to create impediments and turbulence Majority Hindu India and mostly ing militants launch attacks elsewhere it clear that we will goods from China’s western regions in any part of Pakistan. Therefore, it is Muslim Pakistan, once part of a vast in India and backing the Taliban in not allow anyone to through the Pakistani deepwater port important for all to leave behind con- British colonial holding, have fought Afghanistan. of Gwadar. frontation and focus on cooperation.” three wars since they were parti- Pakistan says it only offers diplo- create impediments Chief of Army Staff General Indian officials could not be tioned upon independence in 1947, matic support to the Muslim people and turbulence in Raheel Sharif (pictured), speak- significance of a Pakistan-China eco- reached for comment late on Tues- leading to a violent separation that of Kashmir living under what Paki- ing at a development conference on nomic alliance had “raised eyebrows” day night. RAW is India’s Research and has fed decades of mutual suspicion. stan says is heavy-handed Indian rule. Pakistan: Army chief the impact of the China Pakistan in the region. “In this context, I must Analysis Wing, its main external intel- Pakistan believes India is sup- It denies backing militant attacks in Economic Corridor (CPEC), said the highlight that India, our immediate ligence agency. porting a separatist insurgency in India. Controversies surround Gwadar Port to be operational Shariff’s visit to UK by 2017: Official

Internews to present himself in the court of Asif Internews Ali Zardari.” He was also quick to add that whenever the prime minister came ISLAMABAD: After an extended under pressure, he always looked ISLAMABAD: A multi-million weekend in Lahore, Prime Minister towards the PPP leadership for help. dollar port being developed by Nawaz Sharif headed to London for a But in response, DrMusadik China in Pakistan is set to be at three-day visit to undergo a pending Malik, one of the many spokes- “full operation” by the end of the medical check-up, the Prime Minis- persons from the Prime Minister’s year, a Chinese official said yes- ter’s Office said yesterday. Office, said that the PM had neither terday, part of Beijing’s ambitious When asked, a senior PM Office expressed a desire to meet the PPP economic plans in the region. official said that only close family leader nor had he scheduled a meet- Gwadar port, on Pakistan’s members would be joining him on ing with him. The PM is only visiting southwest coast, will see roughly the trip but did not give any details. London for a medical check-up, Dr one million tonnes of cargo going PM Sharif’s two sons - Hassan and Malik said. But when asked, a senior through it by 2017, said Zhang Hussain - are already abroad. PTI leader said that there was every Baozhong, chairman of the Chi- However, with the PM and his likelihood that the PM was going to nese public company in charge of family becoming embroiled in the ask the PPP to bail him out, consid- the development. Current trade controversy surrounding the Pan- ering the pressure mounting on him there is “basically nothing”, he ama Papers leak, his trip to London to have the claims against his fam- told reporters on the sidelines of Sikh pilgrims arrive from India at Wagah railway station in the Wagah border region in Pakistan, yesterday. has created a lot of interest in polit- ily investigated. a seminar about the port’s devel- ical circles. In particular, PPP In return for coming to his res- Thousands of Sikhs from various countries visit their holy places in Pakistan to celebrate the week-long opment Wednesday. co-chairperson Asif Ali Zardari’s cue, the PPP may ask for something, Baisakhi festival which heralds the beginning of the Sikh New Year. “We hope a big jump will take presence in London is being viewed since DrAsim Hussain and many place Our dream is to make Gwa- meaningfully by the media at home. other senior PPP leaders in Sindh dar a regional trading centre,” he Lending credence to the possi- were facing serious charges. said. Gwadar forms what officials bility of a meeting between the two Many of the PPP’s detractors call the “heart” of the China-Paki- political heavyweights - a sitting PM argued that last year’s acquittal Sikh pilgrims arrive for festival stan Economic Corridor, a grand and a former president, no less was from much-talked about SGS and $46 billion project giving Beijing PPP leader Aitzaz Ahsan. Cotecna was made possible due to greater access to the Middle East, At a time when PTI Chairman a weak prosecution of the case by Internews Khalsa, which is the collective body of Besakhi, on April 14 and the Bhog Africa and Europe through Paki- Imran Khan is ready to launch the PML-N government. A well-con- of all initiated Sikhs. or the concluding ceremony is per- stan. The port was built in 2007 another sit-in, this time in Raiwind, nected PML-N lawmaker admitted The festival also marks harvest formed. Three special trains bringing with technical help from Beijing the leader of the opposition in the that there was a great deal of nerv- season in Punjab and the beginning in 2,000 people for the 10-day pil- as well as Chinese financial assist- Senate had been casting doubt on ousness among the party’s top ISLAMABAD: Sikh and Hindu pil- of a new year according to the Hindu grimage have reached Hassanabdal ance of about $248 million. the reasons for the PM’s sudden visit leaders following the leak of the grims have started arriving at the calendar. The festival begins with a amid strict security measures. Zhang said the tonnage will to London. Talking to journalists Panama Papers. The PTI chairman, GurdwaraPunja Sahib in Hassanab- recitation of the Guru GranthSaahib Strict security measures are initially comprise “quite a number” outside parliament on Wednes- is also heading to London on the dal to celebrate Besakhi which starts and all 1,430 pages of the book are deployed around the temple, with of construction materials for the day, Senator Ahsan wisecracked: coming weekend to attend a couple yesterday. Besakhi is a Sikh religious read during the three days of the fes- fully quipped police officials, anti- city’s development, which Paki- “The prime minister has no medi- of fundraisers for his ShaukatKha- festival, also known as Vaishakhi, tival. The celebrations end when the terrorist units and commandoes stani officials envision turning into cal issues and is only visiting London num Memorial Cancer Hospital. and celebrates the formation of the recitation is complete on the third day protecting it from all sides. another Dubai.

Four more Afghan migrants Second phase of injectable prisoners polio vaccine drive begins executed Internews immunity of the children in these areas where children are most sus- AFP ceptible to this crippling disease. “The children aged between 0 ISLAMABAD: The second phase of to 23 months are most vulnerable Injectable Polio Vaccine (IPV) cam- to polio virus and more than 85 pc MULTAN: Pakistan yester- paign will be kicked off in 18 union cases reported last year were from day hanged four more prisoners councils of the high-risk district of this age group”, he added. convicted of murder despite inter- Killa Abdullah yesterday. He said the vaccination will national criticism over its surging Officials of the Emergency Oper- be carried out through skilled use of the death penalty. ations Centre say that the eight-day vaccinators.“Around 85 temporary Amnesty International last campaign aims to vaccinate more vaccination outreach centres and week described Pakistan as the than 16,300 children in Killa-Abdul- 12 fixed sides will be established world’s third most prolific execu- lah and Gulistan tehsil. in two Tehsils of Killa Abdullah,” tioner after China and Iran, with Provincial Coordinator of Emer- Provincial Coordinator Emergency 326 hangings last year. Yesterday’s gency Operation Centre (ECO), Operation Centre (EOC) Dr Syed Saif- executions took place in the cit- Balochistan, Dr Syed SaifurReh- ur-Rehman said. The first phase of ies of Multan, Jhang and Sialkot in man said that during the campaign IPV campaign had successfully been Members of the OPBC (Organization for protection of Bulgarian citizens) leading a group of migrants Punjab province and in Larkana in children between the age of 4 to conducted in the districts of Quetta, Sindh province. from Afghanistan near Bulgarian border with Turkey, yesterday. 23 months would be injected with Pishin and selected tehsils of Killa Anwarul Haq was executed in polio vaccine which would boost the Abdullah, he added. Multan for murdering his brother over a land dispute in 2000, senior prisons official Chaudhry Arshad Saeed Arain told AFP. Ghulam Farooq was hanged in Threat of Daesh unites tribal elders along along border for talks Sialkot prison for murdering two women and a man due to a fam- ily feud in 1999. Muhammad Irfan was hanged in Jhang for killing a Internews Kurram Agency and Zazi (Jaji), their four meetings and discussed threat a border coordination meeting near The area also has a violent history woman while robbing her home cousin tribe in Afghanistan, were from Daesh and other militant groups Borki village, a notified Customs due to sectarian clashes in the recent in 2006, Arain said, adding that holding talks to build confidence to to people of Kurram Agency,” said the checkpost between the two coun- past. It witnessed the worst clashes eight more prisoners were likely to take measures for averting threat of source. tries, on Monday. erupted in 2007 leaving thousands be hanged in Punjab on Thursday. PESHAWAR: The tribal elders of Kur- Daesh and other groups in their areas. The source said that a recent inci- A security official confirmed the of people dead and wounded. In Larkana Waris Mir Bahr ram Agency of Pakistan and their The last meeting between the two dent involving kidnapping of four meeting. He said that regrouping of An official in the law and order was hanged for the 1995 murder Afghan cousins holding lands on sides was held at no-man’s-land near residents of Kurram Agency was militants in Afghan areas close to department at Fata Secretariat said of a Pakistan International Airlines both sides of the border have started Borki village in Kurram Agency on also discussed in those meetings. Kurram Agency was also discussed that intelligence reports suggested employee during an attack on an negotiations to continue to force mil- April 4. The elders of both the tribes Armed groups, suspected to be affil- in the meeting. that threat from across the border airlines van carrying cash, prison itants of Daesh and its affiliates out of discussed situation arising after iated with IS, were demanding Rs20 Kurram valley is one of the most existed to villages along the border officials said. Paksitan ended a their territory in Afghanistan’s Paktia regrouping of militant groups sus- million for the release of the four kid- sensitive tribal regions due to its stra- in Kurram Agency. six-year moratorium on the death province. pected to be affiliated with Daesh napped men. tegic location since it shares border The administration in the area penalty after Taliban gunned down A source privy to these develop- (IS) on the Afghan side. Military commanders of Paki- with three provinces of Afghanistan had already been intimated to take more than 150 people. ments said that the elders of Turi in “Elders from both tribes have held stan and Afghanistan have also held - Khost, Paktia and Nangarhar. precautionary measures, he added. 14 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 INDIA

Modi-Mamata Royal visit India tests nexus rules nuclear capable ballistic missile NEW DELHI: Nuclear country: Sonia capable ballistic mis- sile K-4 was test-fired from nuclear submarine Arihant, both of which fund companies which looted thou- have been indigenously sands of crores of rupees from the developed, officials said When Prime Minister poor in Bengal. yesterday. Modi faces problems “They didn’t, because the BJP According to sources, and the Trinamool eat from the same the test was conducted in parliament, the plate.” She said the way ‘didi’ duped on March 31 from Ari- Trinamool stands the people of Bengal who had given hant in the Bay of Bengal. up to save him. In her a mandate in Bengal, Modi had The missile was fired from done likewise at the Centre. around 20 metres under return, Modi turns “The way didi uses money, power water, and covered a dis- a blind eye to the and muscle to silence critics, Modi tance of 700 km before adopts the same tactics to bring hitting the target. Trinamool’s anti- down the Congress governments A dummy was also in various states. The Bengal chief test-fired from a pontoon people activities, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and his wife Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, take part in a jeep minister does not send to jail those on March 7, the sources who looted poor people’s money. safari at Kaziranga National Park in the north-eastern state of Assam, yesterday. said. Both the missile and Similarly, Prime Minister Modi lets the submarine have been IANS those who loot banks to easily flee developed by the Defence the country.” Research and Devel- Gandhi alleged that the BJP-led opment Organisation NDA government did not believe (DRDO). Arihant, the lead WEST BENGAL: Alleging a nexus in democracy and pointed out that ship of India’s Arihant- between Prime Minister Narendra Banerjee kept mum when the Con- Delhi seeks early repatriation of class of nuclear-powered Modi and West Bengal Chief Min- gress government in Uttarakhand ballistic missile subma- ister Mamata Banerjee, Congress was dismissed. Refering to the alli- rines, has been designed president Sonia Gandhi yesterday ance between the Congress and the based on the Russian said the Trinamool Congress chief Trinamool in the 2001 assembly prisoner’s body from Pakistan Akula-1 class submarines. was following the same anti-people polls in the state, Gandhi said five The DRDO was tight- policies which Modi was pursuing at years back, her party had backed lipped over the test. The the Centre. Banerjee, as she had promised to IANS Pakistan government, Kirpal Singh Lakhpat Jail. He later succumbed to K-4 is part of the K-fam- “I would like to caution you, the protect the interests of the poor, died on April 11 at 2.55pm following his wounds at the hospital. ily of missiles, a series of person who calls herself ‘didi’ (elder women and marginal sections. a heart attack. On Tuesday, a sister of Kirpal pro- submarine-launched bal- sister, as Banerjee is affectionately But once Banerjee came to “We await further details,” tested at the Attari-Wagah integrated listic missiles (SLBM), called), and the one who orchestrates power, she forgot all her promises, NEW DELHI: India yesterday sought Swarup stated. Kirpal, 54, died at checkpost on the India-Pakistan bor- named after former pres- the ‘NaMo, NaMo’ (Narendra Modi) Gandhi regretted. She said the injus- the “earliest possible” repatriation a hospital in Pakistan’s Kot Lakhpat der over his death. “My brother Kirpal ident and scientist A.P.J. cries, the two of them are together. tice which is happening in Bengal, of the mortal remains of an Indian Jail. He was alleged to have been has been murdered just like Sarabjit Abdul Kalam. The missile “When Prime Minister Modi was unprecedented. held in a Pakistan prison who died involved in a bombing at Faisal- was earlier. The Pakistani jail author- was developed specifi- faces problems in parliament, the “Bengal is having to suffer the on Monday. abad Railway Station in 1991 and ities are responsible for his death,” cally for Arihant, as the Trinamool stands up to save him. In dictatorship and arbitrariness of “Our acting high commissioner sentenced to death for spying and Jagir Kaur said during the protest. nuclear capable Agni-III return, Prime Minister Modi turns not one, but two governments. On met DG South Asia in the (Pakistan) terrorism in Pakistan. He was trans- She was accompanied by many could not be compacted a blind eye to the Trinamool’s anti- one side is Mamata’s Trinamool gov- ministry of foreign affairs and asked ferred to a hospital on Monday after other protestors, among them Dal- to fit in the submarine. people activities,” Gandhi said at an ernment, on the other side is Modi’s for earliest possible repatriation of his health deteriorated suddenly, jail bir Kaur, the elder sister of Sarabjit. election rally in Sujapur in Malda government.” Gandhi also attacked mortal remains,” external affairs officials said. The family demanded that Kirpal district. Banerjee asked the people Banerjee over “death of newborns ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup In 2013, an Indian death row Singh’s body be handed over to them Odd-even: 13% whether Modi and Banerjee had and babies”, plight of potato growers tweeted. convict Sarabjit Singh was attacked for cremation at his native village in taken any action against the chit and “law and order failure”. He said that, according to the by two other inmates at the Kot Punjab’s Gurdaspur district. decline in pollution level NEW DELHI: Chief Minister DMK names Jalianwala Bagh well Kerala temple fire: DNA tests Arvind Kejriwal yesterday said the pollution level in 173 candidates the city had come down begin on unclaimed bodies by at least 13 percent dur- ing the first phase of the for TN polls odd-even vehicle scheme. IANS taken when the autopsy is done and “According to Fortune IANS these are kept in sealed packets. magazine, the pollution After the tests, the results are was reduced in Delhi by 13 matched with the blood samples per cent. There is a range CHENNAI: The DMK yesterday THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: of the living family members, and of data, some claiming named 173 candidates for the Authorities yesterday started tak- the judiciary is informed about the 20 percent while others May 16 assembly elections, field- ing samples for DNA tests from results first. claim 25 per cent reduc- ing Simla Muthu Chozhan against unclaimed bodies which perished Chief Minister Oommen Chandy tion in pollution during Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jay- in the devastating fire at a temple on Wednesday attacked the Left for the first phase of odd- alalithaa. on Kerala on April 10, officials said. trying to score brownie points fol- even,” Kejriwal said, while Announcing the list of can- As many as 113 people have been lowing the horrific tragedy in a administering a pledge to didates, the DMK said its top killed, 21 remain missing, and 350 Kerala temple. school children for making leader and former chief minister were injured in the blaze that was Chandy was reacting to the Delhi pollution-free. M. Karunanidhi will contest from set off by a fireworks display at the remarks by CPI-M leader Kodiyeri Citing figures to show Tiruvarur, 320 km from here. Puttingal Devi temple at Paravur Balakrishnan who on Tuesday sought that sale of petrol and His son and party treasurer town of Kollam district. the resignation of Home Minister diesel in the national cap- M.K. Stalin will seek re-election There are 13 unidentified bod- Ramesh Chennithala in the wake of ital was reduced by 40 from Kolathur in Chennai. Simla ies -- two at the Medical College the Sunday disaster. percent during the first Muthu Chozhan will take on Jay- Hospital here and the others at A large stock of fireworks phase, Kejriwal said it alalithaa in the Radhakrishnan Kollam -- and samples from them exploded at the Puttingal Devi tem- clearly indicates that pol- Nagar constituency here. were taken by police for DNA tests ple in the coastal town of Paravur lution was reduced. The DMK has allotted 61 of to the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for in Kollam district when thousands the total 234 seats to its allies Biotechnology. of people were gathered. including the Congress. Notable M. Radhakrishna Pillai, direc- The tragedy also injured over Heat wave names missing from the candi- tor of the institute, said they were 350 people, many seriously. dates’ list include former minister prepared to go to Kollam to collect The Marxist leader said there sweeps across K. Anbazhagan, Pongalur Palan- the blood samples of those who have were shortcomings the way the home isamy, Subha Thangavelan and lost their relatives or whose relatives department handled the entire event Telangana Ko Si Mani. The DMK candidates are missing. Chandy told the media that include 19 women. The DMK on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Balakrishnan appeared to have HYDERABAD: A heat wave Wednesday also signed an alliance after visiting the temple site and the forgotten that the Sabarimala and yesterday swept across agreement with the Congress for victims on Sunday, asked Chief Min- Thekkady boat tragedies took place Telangana and Rayala- People look inside the Martyrs Well in which over 100 people contesting the Puducherry assem- ister Oommen Chandy to see that all when the latter was a minister in seema region of Andhra bly elections also due on May 16. jumped to save their lives during the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre efforts are made to ensure that due 2006-11. “There were numerous Pradesh with most places The Congress will contest in 21 at the Jallianwala Bagh Memorial on the occasion of Jallianwala justice is given to the unidentified shortcomings of the government recording a maximum and the DMK in nine seats. The Bagh Massacre anniversary in Amritsar, yesterday. bodies. Officials told the media here then, but we did not ask for his temperature of above 40 Puducherry assembly has 30 seats. that the samples for DNA tests are resignation.” degrees Celsius , while a couple of places sizzled at 44 degrees, officials said. The met office has issued heat wave warn- ing for seven out of 10 One more killed as police clash with protesters in Kashmir districts of Telangana and all four districts of Rayalaseema region of AFP Aijaz Ahmed said the young man died fire Tuesday when protesters stormed photographer on the scene said. The a soldier from the post was accused of neighbouring Andhra of injuries sustained when a tear gas an army bunker and set it on fire in army has expressed regret over the assaulting a local girl as she tried to Pradesh. The meteorolog- canister hit his head during the unrest the northern town of Handwara. shootings and ordered an inquiry, use a nearby public toilet, police and ical centre at Hyderabad in the frontier town of Kupwara. “We imposed restrictions in the saying anyone found guilty would witnesses said., Kashmir’s new Chief said heat wave condi- SRINAGAR: A protester was killed in Authorities in the restive region old town of Srinagar and in Handwara be “dealt with”. Minister Mehbooba Mufti warned the tions will prevail in the Indian Kashmir yesterday as angry had imposed a partial curfew after to prevent violence,” director general But the incident has heightened shootings would have a “negative districts of Hyderabad, residents clashed with police, a day separatist leaders called for a gen- of police, K. Rajendra, told AFP. tensions in the region, where many impact” on her government’s efforts Nizamabad, Karimnagar, after three people died when the eral strike over Tuesday’s deaths of But groups of residents took to the resent the large Indian troop pres- to promote peace in the region. Rangareddy, Khammam, army fired into a crowd of civilians two civilian protesters and a woman streets of Handwara after the woman ence and accuse some soldiers of Kashmir is divided between Medak and Nalgonda in incensed by the alleged molestation working in a nearby field who was hit was buried, throwing stones at police rights abuses. Handwara residents India and Pakistan but each claim Telangana of a girl. Local police superintendent by a stray bullet. The soldiers opened who responded with tear gas, an AFP stormed the bunker on Tuesday after the region in full. EUROPE / UK THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 15 Poland crisis threatens democracy: EU Parliament

cases are heard. “Perhaps for the first time we’re Critics say the changes have made dealing with a situation when because Warsaw blamed it difficult for judges to review new of (Polish) opposition politicians’ members of the main legislation, let alone challenge it. The denunciations the European Parlia- opposition parties in court itself has struck them down as ment has passed a legal act aimed unconstitutional. against Poles, our nation,” the Polish Poland for lobbying The government has refused to government’s spokesman, Rafal for the vote in the recognise that ruling, effectively Bochenek, told state news agency PAP. putting it in legal limbo. The European Parliament urged European Parliament. European Parliament lawmak- Poland to follow through on the top ers adopted a resolution yesterday, court’s ruling and called on the EU’s agreeing they were “seriously con- executive European Commission to cerned that the effective paralysis of advance its rule of law procedure Reuters the Constitutional Tribunal in Poland should Warsaw not do that. poses a danger to democracy, human The ultimate sanction, though rights and the rule of law”. unlikely, would be to strip Poland of The non-binding resolution its voting rights in the EU. STRASBOURG: The European Par- passed with 513 votes for, 142 against The Parliament further urged liament said yesterday that an and 30 abstentions. the EU to approve the weedkiller “effective paralysis” of Poland’s top The vote follows the European glyphosate for seven years and not constitutional court posed a threat to Union’s executive launching a mech- 15 as requested by the bloc’s top reg- democracy in the biggest eastern EU anism to establish whether the rule ulator amid fears the product could state, joining critics of the euroscep- of law is under a systemic threat in cause cancer. tic government in Warsaw. Poland. It is the first time the mech- Glyphosate was first used in the Since coming to power late last anism has been used since it was 1970s as the active ingredient in the Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa addresses the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France. year, the Law and Justice (PiS) party set up. Monsanto herbicide Roundup and is has enacted a law increasing the Warsaw blamed members of the now one of the world’s most popular number of judges required to make main opposition parties in Poland for weedkillers. that the bloc greenlight glyphosate But critics, led by activists at concludes glyphosate is “probably” rulings on the Constitutional Tribu- lobbying for the vote in the European The European Commission, the for another 15 years when its cur- Greenpeace, point to research from carcinogenic and are calling for the nal and changing the order in which Parliament. EU’s top regulator, is recommending rent licence ends in June. the World Health Organisation that ingredient’s outright ban. Dutch probe airport security scare in Spain detains ‘Vote Leave’ group arms supplier wake of Brussels bombing of Paris attacks named ‘Out’ campaign

Reuters Ltd’ better demonstrated that it has AFP MADRID: Spanish police said the structures in place to ensure yesterday they have detained a the views of other campaigners are Frenchman suspected of heading represented in the delivery of its a weapons trafficking ring that LONDON: Britain’s electoral watch- campaign,” the Electoral Commis- THE HAGUE: Military police yes- supplied arms to one of the jihad- dog yesterday picked the “Vote sion said in a statement explaining terday probed a major security alert ists that killed 17 people in Paris in Leave” group, backed by London why it had chosen the group over at Amsterdam’s busy international January 2015. Mayor Boris Johnson, to be the offi- rivals Grassroots Out. airport, with one man in custody Police said Antoine Denevi, a cial “Out” campaign ahead of a Although Vote Leave said in a jolt to Dutch authorities, three 27-year-old from a small town in referendum on June 23 on whether they would work with others who weeks after attacks in Belgium killed northern France, was detained in Britain should remain in the Euro- wanted to campaign for an “Out” 32 people. the southern Malaga after Paris pean Union. vote, some of those aligned with Dozens of heavily-armed military issued a Europe-wide arrest war- The decision, which hands the Grassroots Out said they would police swarmed Schiphol airport, rant. He “left France weeks after group several advantages over rival contest the decision. partially evacuating parts of the pub- the Paris attacks to escape police “Out” campaigns including a higher The main benefits of being the lic areas and arresting one suspect. action, and settled in Malaga from spending limit, will pit Johnson lead campaigner are a higher spend- The operation was triggered after where he continued his activities against his party leader Prime Min- ing limit of £7), free distribution of a tip-off from a bystander about an using fake papers,” the police said. ister David Cameron, the effective campaign materials to voters, cam- unspecified “suspicious situation”, a “It’s also been determined that head of the “In” official campaign. paign broadcasts and a grant of up military police spokesman said. his activities were linked with peo- The two main “Out” groups, to £600,000 to be used for admin- “The man remains in custody and ple of Serbian origin, who may one backed by UK Independence istrative costs. Dutch policemen stand guard by a cordoned off area outside the investigation continues,” Alfred have facilitated his access to arms Party leader Nigel Farage and the “I am unsatisfied with the Elec- Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport after it was partially evacuated. Ellwanger told reporters yesterday, and munitions.” other by several senior members of toral Commission’s decision for refusing to reveal any details of the Denevi is suspected of arming Cameron’s Conservatives, had been a variety of reasons that I will be suspect’s identity. last month’s attacks in Belgium, triggered at nearby Leiden station but Amedy Coulibaly, who shot dead involved in a bitter contest to win the making clear in my application for “The situation at the airport has which like the Paris attacks in which police later said it was a false alarm. a policewoman and took hostages designation. judicial review,” UKIP donor Arron returned to normal,” he added and 130 people died, were claimed by the Dutch F-16 fighter jets have in a Jewish supermarket, where he “After careful consideration, the Banks, Banks said in a statement the airport’s authorities confirmed Islamic State (IS) jihadist group. broadened the country’s mission killed four people. commission decided that ‘Vote Leave issued to the media. no disruptions were expected. There have been concerns that in the US-led air campaign against The scare at one of Europe’s busi- the Netherlands could be targeted in IS, bombing jihadist targets in Syria est travel hubs, with flight links to 319 a terror attack, due to its proximity since February. destinations around the world, came to both Belgium and France, and its More than 200 Dutch nationals, exactly three weeks after the March role in the US-led bombing campaign including about 50 women, are also Park joggers told to pay or leave 22 attacks on the Brussels airport and against IS in Iraq and Syria. believed to have joined the ranks of IS metro left 32 people dead and hun- Schiphol is Europe’s fourth-larg- in Iraq and Syria, according to Dutch dreds wounded. est airport, and welcomes some 55 intelligence services. AFP a suburb of Bristol in southwest Eng- many people from outside the village. The Netherlands tightened secu- million passengers every year. Last month, at the request of land, said yesterday. Parkrun’s chief operating officer rity and stepped up border controls No flights or train traffic were French authorities, Dutch police The council voted six to four in Tom Williams said the decision was in the wake of the suicide bombings disrupted during the operation, which carried out raids on an apartment favour of a motion giving “Parkrun”, unprecedented, adding: “We are in its southern neighbour, which also saw balaclava-clad and sub-machine in Rotterdam, uncovering about 45 LONDON: A local authority in Britain an organisation which stages free extremely disappointed.” followed the coordinated attacks in gun-toting officers cordoning off a kg of ammunition. French suspect has told a joggers’ group to start pay- weekly five-kilometre timed runs “Parkrun has had unprecedented Paris in November. square at the entrance to the airport’s Anis Bahri was arrested at the flat ing for the upkeep of the park they worldwide, until May 28 to start success in engaging the least active But it remained unclear yester- shopping plaza, which leads to the suspected of trying to take part in a use for weekly organised runs or stay paying. and encouraging them to exercise day exactly what was behind the arrivals and departures halls. foiled plot in France. He is now fight- away, sparking outrage from British “What we’ve asked Parkrun to do regularly,” he said in a statement. late-night security sweep at Schiphol, Hundreds of passengers, many ing his extradition to Paris. champion runner Paula Radcliffe. is to contribute to the upkeep,” said Radcliffe, who is the current after the Dutch bomb squad found of them on long-haul flights, waited Investigators have uncovered “We have had operational issues the council representative, adding holder of the women’s marathon nothing suspicious in the arrested for hours until the all-clear was given extensive links between the Paris affecting other park users. This has that the runs had expanded from world record, said on Twitter: “Am man’s luggage. yesterday. and Brussels attacks, with many of caused some friction,” a represent- around 60 people a week a few years totally against this short sighted Tensions have been high since Earlier, another scare was the same people involved. ative of Stoke Gifford parish council, ago to 300-400 people including decision”.

Mental health care in emergencies ‘not luxury’: Experts Sweet sting

Reuters health needs,” Inka Weissbecker, glo- Wars and natural disasters can paper Ommeren co-authored. bal mental health and psychosocial open a window for a fresh focus on After the tsunami, the govern- adviser at aid agency International mental health care, which in turn ment realised more widespread care Medical Corps, said can be vital to improving a country’s was needed to help the acute distress LONDON: Mental illnesses are the She is on one of the panels organ- economy and overall development, of survivors. It introduced commu- world’s leading cause of disability ised by the World Bank and WHO he said. nity-based and comprehensive care, affecting millions and, even during around the high-level meeting. A WHO-led study published on and set up a one-year diploma course a humanitarian crises, treating them Some countries affected by war Tuesday said that every $1 invested to train more carers in mental health. is not an optional luxury, experts said - like Sierra Leone and South Sudan - in scaling up treatment for depres- Afghanistan too has prioritised before a World Bank/World Health have only one or two psychiatrists to sion and anxiety led to a return of $4 mental health since the fall of the Tal- Organisation meeting on the issue in treat the entire population, she said. in better health and ability to work. iban government in 2001, and it aims Washington this week. “The problem with mental health The study estimates for the to roll out access to some form of care The number of people affected is it’s often invisible because it’s not first time both the health and the in all primary health clinics across by humanitarian crises has nearly measured, so people such as donors economic benefits of investing in the country. doubled in the past decade, and the or local governments may not think treatment, and is based on studies Other countries that have number of people forced to flee their about it, or think it’s important,” she of 36 low, middle and high-income improved their mental health care homes - more than 60 million - is at added. Stigma and lack of knowledge countries. include Burundi, Indonesia’s Aceh its highest since World War II. are big barriers in all countries, with Many countries, including province, Iraq, Jordan, Kosovo, East The WHO estimates the preva- many people unaware that mental ill- Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, have Timor, Lebanon and now Syria. lence of common mental disorders, nesses are treatable, Weissbecker said. transformed their mental health care “The interest in mental health in including anxiety and depression, can Mark van Ommeren, public men- as a result of an emergency. and after an emergency is enormous. double during a humanitarian crises tal health adviser at WHO, said: “We Before the 2004 South Asian tsu- “It’s not surprising to see that to up to 20 percent of the population have a lot of data showing that men- nami hit Sri Lanka, most of the island the countries who have made the from 10 percent in normal times. tal health is a much bigger problem, nation’s mental health care was greatest progress in mental health A bee heads for a blossom to collect pollen in Frankfurt am “The number of people affected a much bigger part of life, than peo- offered by hospitals in big cities, and system development are those that by humanitarian crises is increasing ple previously realised - it’s one of the the majority of people needing treat- have been through emergencies,” Main, western Germany. Flowers are in full blossoms in several globally, which also increases mental elephants in the room.” ment did not receive it, according to a van Ommeren said. parts of the world these days. 16 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 EUROPE

Croatia demands Migrants clash clear EU policy again with on migrants AFP

GEVGELIJA, MACEDONIA: Croatia’s cops on border President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic yesterday demanded the EU imple- ment a clear policy on migrants as No injuries were reported from she and two other Balkan heads of the clashes at the closed Idomeni state visited a flashpoint area on the Macedonian police crossing, while Greek riot police Greece-Macedonia border. fired scores of monitoring the stone-throwing “EU should be clear in its policy migrants on their side of the fence towards migrants and take care of tear gas canisters, made no arrests, did little to inter- those who have the right to asylum, stun grenades and vene and retreated during the who are fleeing war,” Grabar-Kitar- rubber bullets at the tear-gas barrage. ovic said after visiting a reception Macedonian police fired scores centre in Gevgelija on Macedonia’s protesters, who had of tear gas canisters, stun grenades southeastern border with Greece. earlier tried to scale and rubber bullets at the protesters, She was accompanied by her Mac- who had earlier tried to scale the edonian and Slovenian counterparts, the border fence border fence using blankets issued Gjorge Ivanov and Borut Pahor. using blankets to get by humanitarian groups to get over “The migrant wave will not stop coils of razor wire. Many of the can- by itself, not until those messages are over coils of razor isters were neutralised by blankets clear,” she said. wire. and earth thrown over them by the Over the past three days, hun- protesters. dreds of people have tried to force About 11,000 people have been their way across, with Macedonian living in the informal camp for police using tear gas and other riot Macedonian President Gjorge Ivanov (left) and Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic (centre) talk to AP weeks, since Macedonia closed its control means to stop them in scenes border to transient refugees and a UNHCR staff member at the registration and transit camp for refugees near Gevgelija, former Yugoslav of violence which have drawn crit- other migrants hoping to move north Republic of Macedonia, yesterday. Macedonian, Slovenian and Croatian presidents are on a two-day work icism in Europe and sparked a row towards Europe’s prosperous heart- visit to Macedonia to gather first hand information about the refugee situation at the border with Greece. with Greece. IDOMENI, GREECE: More than 100 land. Before the shutdown, which The Macedonian president said migrants engaged in running battles was triggered by a similar move in several mass incursions into Macedo- the borders to open and get on with two Balkan neighbours — at odds for a the unrest was the result of “major with Macedonian police yesterday on Austria, further north on the migra- nia in recent weeks, trying to bypass our lives,” Mohamad said. “I want to quarter-century over Macedonia’s offi- pressure by the migrants to obtain the other side of a fence on Greece’s tion corridor, about 850,000 people the fence or break through it. continue my studies in Europe. I will cial name — with Macedonia accusing (the) re-opening” of the Balkans route, border with the country, in clashes who had arrived in Greece on smug- Alaeddin Mohamad, a 26-year-old stay here until the border opens. Oth- Greece of doing nothing to stop the and underlined the country’s right to that sent clouds of tear gas wafting glers’ boats from Turkey had entered law student from Aleppo, Syria, who erwise, I will die here.” rioters and Athens denouncing Sko- protect its border. over a crowded tent city of stranded Macedonia from Idomeni. has lived in the camp for a monthsaid On Sunday, severe clashes between pje’s heavy-handed response. As they visited, further clashes refugees and other migrants. The camp residents — mostly that the protest started with a peace- stone-throwing migrants and Mace- On the Macedonian side of the erupted just a few hundred metres The violence stopped a planned Syrian, Iraqi and Afghan refugees ful sit-down in front of the fence, and donian police using tear gas, stun border, the presidents of Macedonia, (yards) away, with Macedonian police tour of the border fence in Mace- — have ignored repeated calls from Macedonian police responded with grenades, rubber bullets and a water Croatia and Slovenia met in the town firing tear gas and stun grenades at donia by the visiting presidents of Greek authorities to relocate to tear gas. cannon left scores injured. The vio- of Gevgelija, a few kilometres from around a hundred migrants protesting Croatia and Slovenia. organised camps, and attempted “We don’t want to clash. We want lence increased friction between the Idomeni. on the Greek side of the fence. Macedonian president German train crash claims 12th victim; one arrested blocks wire-tapping probe AFP left several dozen passengers injured. custody on involuntary manslaugh- to the trains and pressed the wrong The latest victim was a 46-year- ter and other charges. radio key combinations in both emer- old man who died of his injuries in A court ordered the arrest of the gency calls so that the drivers could a Munich hospital more than two 39-year-old railway signalling worker not receive them.” AFP ex-intelligence chief Sasho Mijalkov. BERLIN: The death toll from a Ger- months after the disaster, said Bavar- on involuntary manslaughter and This meant his error was not just A political ally of the president, man train crash rose to 12 yesterday, ian police. other charges. a “momentary lapse” but represented Gruevski stepped down as premier a day after a rail dispatcher was German railway dispatcher Prosecutors said the man had a “serious breach of duty”, said the in January to open the way for par- arrested, accused of having been blamed for a train crash was dis- “turned on his mobile phone while on chief prosecutor in the southern town SKOPJE: Macedonia was mired in liamentary elections in June—but the distracted by a mobile phone game tracted by playing a mobile phone duty on the morning of the disaster, of Traunstein in a statement. fresh political turmoil yesterday opposition wants to boycott them. shortly before the accident. game at the time, prosecutors launched an online computer game The worker allowed two trains after the president blocked judicial Although he may himself benefit Two commuter trains crashed charged. and played it for a long period until from opposite directions, carry- proceedings against top politicians from the amnesty, Zaev denounced head-on at high speed near the south- Prosecutors, who had previ- shortly before the train collision.” ing about 150 passengers in total, to embroiled in a wire-tapping scan- what he called a “coup d’etat” by ern spa town of Bad Aibling early on ously blamed the signalling worker’s “Apparently because of this dis- travel on a single track. They collided dal, sending opposition protesters “the man put in place by Nikola February 9 in one of Germany’s dead- “human error”, said they had now traction, the accused made... false in a forest area about 60 kilometres back onto the streets in a crisis that is Gruevski”. liest accidents in years, which also remanded the 39-year-old driver in assumptions, sent the wrong signals southeast of Munich. threatening country’s EU aspirations. The pardon immediately raised The United States and European tensions on the streets as hundreds Union both voiced “serious con- of protesters staged demonstrations, cerns” about the move by President some of them pelting Ivanov’s party Gjorge Ivanov, which drew hundreds HQ with eggs. Expo on James Bond Ukraine eyes of demonstrators onto the streets of Further protests were possible Skopje. The country is also on the with law professor Ljubomir Frcko- frontline of the migrant crisis, with ski, who is close to the SDSM, saying vote on new its actions blocking people from on television that “citizen marches crossing into Macedonia leading to could be the solution”. pro-EU govt a row with neighbouring Greece. Macedonia has been a candidate In a televised address to the for EU membership since 2005 but nation, Ivanov said he was bringing accession talks have yet to open and the legal proceedings to a halt “in the prolonged crisis will do nothing AFP order to put an end to this political to improve its chances. crisis, which will end with demo- The bloc’s foreign policy arm cratic elections”. voiced alarm, saying Ivanov’s KIEV: Strife-torn Ukraine Last year the oppposition Social amnesty raised “serious concerns”. appeared to move a step closer Democratic Union of Macedonia “We call on all sides to avoid yesterday to agreeing a new (SDSM) accused then prime minis- interventions that risk undermining pro-EU government headed by ter Nikola Gruevski of wiretapping years of efforts within the country parliament Speaker Volodymyr around 20,000 people including pol- and with the support of the interna- Groysman that could be voted iticians and journalists, and said the tional community to strengthen the today. recordings revealed high-level cor- rule of law,” it said in a statement. A senior member of President ruption. The government denied EU Enlargement Commissioner Petro Poroshenko’s party said that the accusations and in return filed Johannes Hahn said on Twitter that “according to my information, all charges against SDSM leader Zoran Ivanov’s decision was “not in line the agreements have been reached Zaev, accusing him of “spying” and with my understanding of the rule and no further questions remain.” attempts to “destabilise” the coun- of law”. “We will submit the prime try, which is hoping to join the EU. The US embassy said it was minister’s candidacy to the pres- Gruevski was among those seeking clarification of Ivanov’s ident and (on Thursday) be able being targeted in the probes, along move, but warned that it “raises A view from the James Bond 007 retrospective exhibition at the Grande Halle de la Villette Centre in to vote on the approval of both a with Zaev, former interior min- serious concerns about Macedo- Paris, France, yesterday. The exhibition will begin on April 16 and last till September 4. new premier and government,” ister Gordana Jankulovska and nia’s commitment to the rule of law”. Poroshenko party deputy Oleksiy Goncharenko told reporters. The pro-EU coalition that formed after the so-called Maidan Revolution has since cracked and Rich nations probe Panama Papers tax revelations forced the parties led by Porosh- enko and Yatsenyuk—parliament’s two largest—to enlist a handful of other lawmakers to make sure that AFP from Panamanian law office Mos- what, how we can pool that informa- OECD said in a statement. is all a US plot against him. a new government is approved. sack Fonseca offered international tax tion and start to work together.” The tax officials gathered behind And wealthy citizens in Australia, Groysman himself sounded officials meeting in Paris an unprec- The global network looking into closed doors in Paris just hours after France, India, Mexico, Peru, Spain and a more cautious note than Gon- edented trove of data to delve into tax havens is an initiative of the Paris- the Panamanian police’s organised elsewhere face probes over suspected charenko speaking to reporters PARIS: Tax authorities from the alleged wrongdoing, officials said. headquartered 38-nation advanced crime police raided the headquarters tax avoidance after their names fig- before parliamentary debates. world’s richest nations yesterday “We are basically trying to get the economies club, the Organisation for of Mossack Fonseca, which says its ured in some of the documents. “The situation is very difficult,” probed a mass of murky offshore bigger picture,” Australian Tax Com- Economic Cooperation and Develop- confidential documents were stolen Paris put Panama back on its said Groysman, 38, a lawyer by dealings revealed in the huge Pan- missioner Chris Jordan, who proposed ment (OECD). in a computer hack. national list of uncooperative juris- training. “But the time has come ama Papers data leak, just hours after a joint investigation, said. “The meeting at the OECD Leaders in Britain and Ukraine dictions, after removing it in 2012, in for us to assume responsibility. I police raided the law firm at the cen- “A number of countries have got presents tax administrations with a have faced questions over their taxes, the wake of the leaks. think we have reached a format tre of the scandal. slices or pieces of the data and that’s first opportunity to act on the consid- while Russian President Vladimir France is also urging the Euro- that may be acceptable, respon- The leak of 11.5 million confiden- very useful, but really, the start of the erable body of information revealed Putin has sought to divert attention pean Union and all OECD member sible and capable of leading our tial offshore financial documents conversation is to work out who’s got by the Panama Papers release,” the from his entourage by claiming it states to follow suit. country out of crisis.” AMERICAS THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 17 Sanders joins striking workers at Verizon office

characterised as corporate greed. wages and benefits, including retire- It was a scene tailor-made for ment security,” Clinton said. “And we Bernie Sanders the US senator from Vermont, who should be doing all we can to keep addressed the has focused on income inequality good-paying jobs with real job secu- in his campaign for the Democratic rity in New York.” crowd of striking presidential nomination. Sanders is In the earlier development, workers from Verizon trying to catch up with Clinton, the Clinton won the backing of a local front-runner, in Tuesday’s primary unit, representing more than 27,000 Communications in New York, a state both candidates area workers, of the International Inc as “brothers have called home. Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Workers cheered as Sanders criti- one of the unions involved in the and sisters” and cised the mammoth communications Verizon strike. thanked them for company for wanting to take away Sanders has championed the Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders greets the crowd before his campaign rally at Marist standing up to what health benefits, outsource jobs and rights of working-class Americans, avoid federal income taxes, calling including a proposed $15 federal College in Poughkeepsie, New York. he characterised as it “just another major American cor- minimum wage, in daily campaign corporate greed. poration trying to destroy the lives of speeches targeting corporate greed. working Americans.” Yet Clinton has racked up sup- “Today you are standing up not port from unions representing Obama hints at support for Hillary just for justice for Verizon workers, majority of organised labour, a Agencies you’re standing up for millions of crucial base of support for the Dem- Americans ... and you’re telling cor- ocratic Party. Reuters Clinton is running against US committed citizens,” he said. porate America that they cannot have They include influential unions Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont White House spokesman Josh it all,” Sanders said. such as the AFSCME, a public to be the Democratic Party’s 2016 Earnest said Obama’s remarks indi- WASHINGTON: Democratic pres- Nearly 40,000 Verizon employ- employees union with 1.6 million presidential candidate. She lost the cated the country was ready for a idential candidate Bernie Sanders ees walked off the job yesterday members, and the Service Employ- WASHINGTON: US President Barack 2008 race to Obama, who was then woman president, but he stressed paid an impromptu visit to a Verizon in one of the largest US strikes in ees International Union, or SEIU, Obama seemed to inch a little closer a US senator and who later made the candidates would be judged on workers’ picket line in Brooklyn yes- recent years after contract talks hit which has about 2 million members to endorse former secretary of state her the nation’s top diplomat in his their values and policy agenda. terday after being endorsed by New an impasse. in a variety of professions. Hillary Clinton’s presidential bid. administration. Obama remains popular with the York City transit workers as he tried While Sanders whipped up the In what was widely viewed as a During remarks at a museum Obama, perhaps realising that base of Democratic supporters who to wrest a bit of union support from crowd of hundreds in Brooklyn, win for Sanders, the AFL-CIO in Feb- dedicated to highlighting the fight people would read his remarks as helped him to the White House and rival Hillary Clinton. Clinton’s campaign issued a state- ruary declined to endorse a candidate for women’s equality, the president, a hint of support for Clinton, tem- re-elect him in 2012. An endorsement Sanders addressed an enthu- ment criticising Verizon for wanting in the Democratic primary. who has made clear his admiration pered them by saying he did not of Clinton could help her vanquish siastic crowd of striking workers to outsource more jobs and urging Meanwhile, a report from New for his one-time rival but has not offi- know when a woman would win the Sanders, who is behind her in amass- from Verizon Communications the company to go back to the bar- York quoting a newly released doc- cially endorsed her, said he hoped White House. “I don’t know how long ing number of delegates needed to Inc as “brothers and sisters” and gaining table. ument said that Donald Trump was one day people would be amazed it’ll take to get there, but I know we’re become nominee but has remained thanked them for their cour- “To preserve and grow America’s once on good terms with Democratic that the United States had not had a getting closer to that day because of a strong challenger with wins in a age in standing up to what he middle class, we need to protect good front runner Hillary Clinton. female commander-in-chief. the work of generations of active, number of state nominating contests.

Rousseff to Govts around the world stifling basic freedoms: US ‘fight to last AFP and non-state actors to close the called “fundamental freedoms” and But it also paints a grim picture of country, even as his security detail space for civil society, to stifle media to support those groups Washington the state of play in some allied coun- tried to expel opposition journal- minute’ against and Internet freedom, to marginal- sees as human rights defenders. tries, including Nato member Turkey, ists from the think tank hosting his ise opposition voices, and in the most “Some look at these events and where President Recep Tayyip Erdog- speech. impeachment WASHINGTON: Governments around extreme cases, to kill people or drive fear democracy is in retreat,” he an’s government has cracked down on Egypt, which receives $1.5bn in US the world are cracking down on basic them from their homes,” he said. said. “In fact, they are a reaction to opposition media and arrested sev- military aid despite President Abdel freedoms, the United States warned The report, compiled on a coun- the advance of democratic ideals, to eral leading journalists. Fattah Al Sisi authoritarian style of AFP yesterday, in a report that did not try-by-country basis by US diplomats, rising demands of people from every “The government has used anti- rule, also faced stern criticism from spare key US allies. has no legal implications for US pol- culture and region for governments terror laws as well as a law against the US Secretary of State. US Secretary of State John icy and a critical write up does not that answer to them.” insulting the president to stifle “There were instances of per- BRASÍLIA: Brazil’s President Kerry, writing the preface to his compel Washington to cut ties or mili- As might be expected, the report legitimate political discourse and sons tortured to death and other Dilma Rousseff vowed yesterday department’s annual human rights tary aid to rights abusers or to impose is critical of US rivals like Russia investigative journalism,” the report allegations of killings in prisons and she will “fight to the last minute” report, said attacks on democratic sanctions upon them. and China—where it says civil rights says. detention centers,” the report says, against efforts to impeach her, values point to a “global govern- But Kerry argued that the detailed groups face increasing repression— The report will anger Erdogan, citing non-government-organisa- despite key allies deserting her as ance crisis.” report—the 40th his department has and of foes like Iran and North Korea, who visited Washington last month tions and UN reports of hundreds of she clings to office. “In every part of the world, we see produced—would strengthen US where citizens face extrajudicial kill- and denied that there had been any Egyptians having gone missing since “I will fight to the last minute of an accelerating trend by both state determination to promote what he ings and torture. crackdown on free expression in his the 2011 revolution. the second half,” she said, employ- ing a football metaphor, in an interview published by several media yesterday. Lawmakers will hold a crucial Germanwings victims’ Women empowerment vote on impeachment proceed- ings against Rousseff in Congress on Sunday. kin sue pilot’s school In yesterday’s interview, she repeated her offer to forge a political compromise pact if she AFP A spokeswoman for Lufthansa survives Sunday’s vote. said the suit had “no chance of suc- The 68-year-old leader is cess,” but declined further comment. moving closer to being driven Alexander said ATCA was “not from office in a political and NEW YORK: Relatives whose just negligent, but also careless, and economic crisis rocking Latin loved ones died last year when a even reckless, in failing to apply its America’s biggest country less Germanwings pilot deliberately own well-advertised ‘stringent’ than four months before it hosts crashed a plane in the French Alps standards to discover the history of the Olympic Games. filed a wrongful death suit yester- Lubitz’s severe mental illness that Pressure rose after two blocs day against the US flight school that should have kept Lubitz from admis- in Rousseff’s ruling coalition trained him. sion to ATCA’s flight school.” announced on Tuesday they would “Andreas Lubitz, the suicidal Investigators determined after vote to impeach her. pilot, should never have been the crash that Lubitz, 27, had a his- Those defections swelled the allowed to enter” the training pro- tory of depression and suicidal number of lawmakers likely to gram at Airline Training Center tendencies and the case has raised back a motion against her when Arizona, Inc. (ATCA), said Brian Alex- questions about medical checks the lower house of congress votes ander, an attorney who filed the suit faced by pilots as well as doctor- Sunday on whether an impeach- in federal court in Phoenix, Arizona. patient confidentiality. ment trial should be launched. It was filed on behalf of 80 peo- But the plaintiffs’ lawyers said Polls published in the Bra- ple whose relatives perished in the numerous red flags should have zilian media indicate opposition March 15, 2015 crash of a German- made it clear that Lubitz—with a Actress Patricia Arquette meets House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, representatives Carolyn parties are closing in on securing wings’ Flight A320. Alexander’s firm, history of serious mental illness that Maloney, Doris Matsui and Lois Frankel at a discussion on“When Women Succeed, America Succeeds,” the 342 votes needed to approve Kreindler and Kreindler, was joined included suicidal tendencies—was at the US Capitol in Washington DC, yesterday. the impeachment motion and send in the suit by attorneys in Britain, unfit to be a pilot. it to the Senate for a further vote. Germany and the Netherlands. His struggle with depression and The crash took 150 lives, includ- other mental illnesses before enter- ing that of Lubitz, a troubled pilot ing ATCA’s programme was serious who had struggled for years with to require that he break off his pilot’s mental health problems. training for 10 months and receive Canada lawmakers concerned over rise in suicide cases The 28-year-old locked the pilot treatment in hospital, the lawyers out of the cockpit and while alone at said in their suit. the controls, steered the jetliner into Lubitz had filed false documen- Reuters First Nation community in north- realising someone has reached the government spokeswoman. the side of a mountain, killing all 144 tation with the US Federal Aviation ern Ontario tried to kill themselves, point of no hope,” she told the debate The problems plaguing aborigi- passengers and six crew. Administration, deliberately con- prompting the chief to declare a state in the House of Commons. “Tonight nals gained prominence in January The pilot, Captain Patrick cealing “his true medical history, of emergency. Separately, a second has to be a turning point for us as a when a gunman killed four people Sondenheimer, can be heard on the past medical diagnoses and lengthy OTTAWA/WINNIPEG, MANI- group was hospitalised after suicide country in order to decide together in La Loche, Saskatchewan. An abo- “black box” recording retrieved from treatment, including hospitalisation, TOBA: Canadian legislators told attempts. that we will do better,” she said. riginal teenager was charged in the the crash site, banging on the cock- for multiple psychotic and mental an emergency parliamentary ses- Health Minister Jane Philpott said Canada’s new Liberal govern- shootings. Legislators complained pit door in the minutes before the disorders,” the lawsuit said. sion that a rash of suicide attempts the suicide rates among aboriginal ment said last month it would spend during the debate that Ottawa had not crash, pleading with his young co- Still, the German medical certif- by aboriginal teenagers in a remote, youth were at least 10 times higher an extra C$8.37bn ($6.54bn) over five yet delivered all the extra aid it had pilot to open it up. icate Lubitz presented to ATCA bore poverty-stricken community was than for the general population of years to help the aboriginal popula- promised La Loche. Another Canadian Lubitz had received pilot train- a notation that indicated the certif- “completely unacceptable” and vowed young people. tion deal with dire living conditions. aboriginal community in the western ing at ATCA between November 2010 icate would be invalidated if there steps to keep it from happening again. “It is a staggering reality, it is Declaring a state of emergency is province of Manitoba reported six sui- and March 2011. ATCA is owned by were a relapse or recurrence of his Over the past weekend alone, completely unacceptable ... there a symbolic move and does not legally cides in two months and 140 suicide the German airline Lufthansa. depression, according to the lawsuit. 11 members of the Attawapiskat is nothing more devastating than oblige Ottawa to take action, said a attempts in two weeks. 18 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 AMERICAS

First step in anti-IS Fraud case: Kirchner appears in court battle in Iraq and Syria complete: AFP in December after he narrowly beat her side in an election. That ended 12 Pentagon years of leftist rule by her and her late husband Nestor, who came to power BUENOS AIRES: Argentina’s ex- after a financial crisis. AFP leader Cristina Kirchner faced a judge Macri launched steps to liber- yesterday over alleged fraud in a case alise the Argentine economy, Latin raising the political heat after her suc- America’s third biggest. Kirchner’s WASHINGTON: The US-led coali- cessor was separately named in the supporters say his spending cuts and tion campaign against the Islamic Panama Papers scandal. price rises are hurting poorer families. State group in Iraq and Syria has The ex-president, 63, has rejected Thousands of Kirchner’s support- successfully completed its first the accusations that she was involved ers gathered in the rain to greet her as “phase” of operations, a US mil- in suspect currency transactions by she arrived smiling at the courthouse itary spokesman said yesterday. Argentina’s central bank last year in in central Buenos Aires. “Cristina, the The coalition is working the closing months of her presidency people are with you,” they yelled. “If through three main steps as it as a plot by the new government. you go to jail, I’m going with you,” wages its 20-month-old fight “I am not afraid of them,” she read one of the signs. against the IS group, Baghdad- wrote in a declaration filed with the Judge Claudio Bonadio is inves- based spokesman Colonel Steve court yesterday and published on her tigating whether there are grounds Warren said. Facebook page. to charge Kirchner over claims that “Our enemy has been weak- “I will face up to this case and any she mishandled public funds in con- ened and we now are working other one that they want to fabricate nection with the sale of dollars below to fracture him. Phase one of the against me.” market value by the central bank in military campaign is complete,” The case follows separate rev- September. It is one of numerous Warren told Pentagon reporters, elations that current conservative cases connected to former leading noting that this initial step was to President Mauricio Macri had ties to officials from the Kirchners’ center- “degrade” the IS group by stopping an offshore company named in the left governments. it from making additional territo- Panama Papers leaks. He has denied Bonadio is an open critic of Kirch- rial gains. “We are now in phase Former Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner waves after delivering a speech to supporters any wrongdoing. ner, who in the past tried to have him two, which is to dismantle this Macri took over from Kirchner dismissed from his post. in front of the Federal Court in Buenos Aires, yesterday. enemy,” he added. Warren said the final phase of the campaign is to ensure the IS group is dealt a lasting defeat, by Hackers helped enabling local forces to prevent a Overcrowded Mexican prisons run by inmates resurgence of jihadist influence. Deputy Secretary of State Antony FBI crack San Blinken said IS’s ranks have been pared back in Iraq and Syria to AFP the infamous leader of the Sinaloa Some privileged inmates have one his cell 24 hours per day. their lowest level since Washing- Bernardino drug cartel leader, Joaquin “El Chapo” or two cells all to their own, while Following the deadly riot at the ton began monitoring the group. Guzman, along with more than 1,000 in some cases 30 prisoners share a Topo Chico prison in northern Nuevo Though the IS group maintains iPhone: Report MEXICO CITY: Dozens of Mexican other inmates. The problems stems in cell meant for four people, Villanueva Leon state, authorities found “luxury a firm grip on vast areas of the two prisons are overcrowded and run by part from the fact that 40 percent of said. Two recent cases have put a cells” with portable saunas, aquari- countries, the jihadists have suffered inmates, with many sneaking televi- inmates are kept behind bars even spotlight on Mexico’s prison prob- ums and even one bar. some serious setbacks including the AFP sions, cellphones and weapons into though they are still waiting for rul- lem: Guzman’s escape in July 2015 Guzman’s escape and the Topo loss of Ramadi in Iraq. their cells, a human rights body said. ings in their cases. and a brawl that left 49 inmates dead Chico brawl “demonstrated the “While IS can still put together The governmental National The commission also found that at another penitentiary in February. vulnerabilities and flaws of our pen- some complex attacks, they have WASHINGTON: Professional Human Rights Commission said in inmates govern themselves in 71 state Guzman was recaptured in Jan- itentiary system,” said commission not been able to take hold of any hackers discovered at least one a report that 71 state and six federal prisons, but not in any of the federal uary and sent back to the Altiplano, president Luis Raul Gonzalez. key terrain for almost a year now,” software flaw that helped the FBI penitentiaries—out of more than 150 jailhouses. where authorities have imposed “We can’t wait for grave evens Warren said. break into an iPhone used by a San prisons—are too crowded. “There’s possession of objects that extraordinary security measures, to happen in a prison to look at the “We’ve struck leaders, supply Bernardino attacker, the Washing- The overpopulation list includes are inappropriate, from cellphones to including placing rebar in the con- existing problem in this area and lines, fighters, industrial base and ton Post reported. the 836-capacity Altiplano maxi- televisions and weapons,” said Ruth crete floors to prevent another tunnel implement actions that, in most cases, funding sources in both Iraq and These hackers were paid a mum-security prison, which houses Villanueva, a commission expert. escape and posting a guard outside are stopgap measures,” he said. Syria.” one-time flat fee for their help, the Post said, quoting people familiar with the case. The discovery of the flaw was used to fashion a piece of hard- For a noble cause Police raid office of ware that helped US authorities dodge the iPhone’s four-digit personal identification number without activating a feature that Panama law firm would have erased all the data on the phone, the Post quoted the people familiar with the case as AFP during the financial crisis. saying. Panama has hit back at the The FBI would not have had apparent blemish on its image as trouble cracking the four-digit an important financial crossroads. PIN. The tricky part, in fact, was PANAMA CITY: Police raided the It warned France of unspecified to deactivate a feature on the headquarters of the Panama law diplomatic measures if France does phone that erases data stored on firm whose leaked documents have not remove it from a blacklist of tax the device after 10 incorrect tries unleashed a global scandal over how havens. Paris put Panama back on its at guessing the code, the Post said. the world’s elite use offshore com- national list of uncooperative juris- In the San Bernardino attacks, panies to hide their wealth. dictions, after removing it in 2012, in Syed Farook and wife Tashfeen Organised crime police sur- the wake of the leaks. Malik killed 14 people on Decem- rounded Mossack Fonseca’s Australia’s tax commissioner has ber 2 before dying in a firefight headquarters in Panama City as the also said he intends to propose a plan with police. Two other phones offices were being searched, along to pool international data to hunt tax linked to the pair were found with several other branches. dodgers at an upcoming meeting of destroyed after the attack. Prosecutors said the raids had global tax officials in Paris. The government filed suit to taken place “with no incident or Chris Jordan told a local financial try to force Apple to help it break interference,” but gave no details newspaper the probe would be based into a phone used by one of the on the results of the searches. on a six-country collaboration he set shooters. Apple, backed by other The fallout from the Panama up in 2012 to investigate the world’s tech giants such as Google and Jugglers perform to collect money for the family of a colleague, who they said was killed by a stray Papers, which law firm Mossack largest e-commerce companies. Facebook, refused, citing concerns bullet during a gunfight between police and a gang member, in San Salvador, El Salvador. Fonseca claims were stolen when “We’re basically trying to get the over digital security and privacy. hackers from abroad breached its bigger picture,” he told the Austral- system, has spread around the world. ian Financial Review. “It’s never been A year-long probe by a consor- tried on this scale before.” tium of investigative journalists The European Union unveiled examined the papers, which come plans yesterday to force the world’s Planned Parenthood shooter admired doctor’s killer from around 214,000 offshore enti- biggest multinationals to faithfully ties and cover almost 40 years. report earnings and pay their fair The world’s business, politi- share of taxes, saying the Panama AP saying the media do not have a First declared himself a “warrior for the did because his actions saved lives of cal and even sports elite have been Papers scandal added to the need for Amendment right to access court babies” and said he was guilty. A other unborn fetuses,” the documents thrown onto the defensive. change. Its executive arm said that documents, which prompted the hearing this month will reveal more say. “He was happy with what he had Iceland’s prime minister was under the new rules, big companies monthslong court fight over records about whether he is competent to done because his actions ... ensured forced to resign after it emerged operating in Europe would have to DENVER: The man who acknowl- that are routinely released in crimi- continue with his criminal case. that no more abortions would be con- he owned shares in the country’s make public what they earn in each edges killing three people at a nal cases. They include Dear’s arrest The documents show Dear had ducted at the Planned Parenthood banks through an offshore company member state of the 28-nation bloc. Colorado Planned Parenthood clinic warrant and applications for warrants been nursing a grudge against abor- facility in Colorado Springs,” which idolised an abortion foe who killed a to search Dear’s pickup truck, com- tion providers for years. has since reopened. Florida doctor more than two dec- puter, emails and tumbledown trailer He told police he admired Paul Before the shooting, Dear fre- ades earlier, court documents show. in rural Hartsel, Colorado. Hill, a former minister, who was exe- quently posted messages online about Robert Dear told police he Dear, 57, is charged with 179 cuted in 2003 for the 1994 shootings his anti-abortion views, he told police. attacked the clinic in Colorado counts, including murder, attempted of abortion provider Dr John Bayard In 2009, he emailed his son a link to a Springs because he was upset with murder and assault, in the Novem- Britton and his bodyguard, a retired website that has the stated purpose of the health organisation for “the sell- ber 27 attack. He held police at bay US Air Force officer named James “honouring heroes who stood up for ing of baby parts,” according to the for more than five hours at the clinic, Herman Barrett, outside the Ladies the unborn,” with links to informa- court documents, which give the injuring nine others and forcing the Centre in Pensacola, Florida. tion about Hill and others who had deepest look yet into his seething evacuation of hundreds of people Hill himself said he was inspired targeted abortion clinics. disdain for abortion providers. Dear from surrounding businesses. As he by shooting death of another doctor Dear asked several people for also told investigators he put glue in was being put in a patrol car, Dear in Pensacola a year earlier. At the time directions to the Planned Parent- the locks at an abortion clinic when began yelling about the killing of of Hill’s execution, some urged that he hood, finally getting the address by he lived in South Carolina, a common babies and “no more baby parts,” be spared for fear the extreme wing calling the clinic. protest technique among activists try- according to the court documents. of the anti-abortion movement would He wore a homemade ballistic ing to shut down such facilities. The dead included a police officer turn him into a martyr. vest made from silver coins and duct The documents were unsealed from the University of Colorado, Colo- Hours after the gunbattle, dur- tape when he barged into the clinic after a section of media petitioned rado Springs, and two people who ing an interview, Dear told police he with four rifles, according to the doc- the state’s highest court for their were accompanying friends to the dreamed he would be “met by all the uments. He told police he had other Police officers stand guard at the entrance of the Mossack Fonseca release. Judge Gilbert Martinez ini- clinic separately. aborted fetuses at the gates of heaven weapons, including two handguns law firm office in Panama City. tially refused to make them public, In courtroom outbursts, Dear and they would thank him for what he and a shotgun, in his truck.

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER Minimum: 22o C Maximum: 29o C

FAJR 03.54 am ZUHR 11.34 am MAGHRIB 05.58 pm HIGH TIDE 08:45 - 22:15 Expected strong wind and high seas due to SHOROOK 05.13 am ASR 03.04 pm ISHA 07.28 pm LOW TIDE 04:30 - 14:45 thunder activity. Partly cloudy to cloudy with scattered rain, thundery at times.

MORNING BREAK THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 19

ONLINE CHART BUST Brain chip gives paralysed man www.thepeninsulaqatar.com ability to hold cup

MOST READ NEW YORK: Ian Burkhart was only 19 when the accident happened. He had been swimming in Gujarat Lions beat Kings XI Punjab the Outer Banks with some buddies when a wave 1 on IPL debut caught him and hurled him into a sandbar, leav- ing him paralysed from the neck down. But he Brussels air traffic disrupted as always held out hope that medical science would 2 strike continues one day be able to help him regain enough move- ment to become more independent. Turkey shells targets in Syria after That day has finally arrived. Scientists 3 rocket fire hits border town reported yesterday in the journal Nature that they have been able to implant a chip in Burkhart’s brain that sends signals to an array of 130 elec- trodes embedded in a “sleeve” he wears on his arm Tulips at the world’s largest bulb garden of Keukenhof in Lisse. TWEET OF THE DAY that has given him the ability to move his hand with significant accuracy. Holding a glass with water and pouring it out. Using a stick to stir the contents of a jar. Swiping a credit card. Dutch bulb garden depicts Golden Age These are the movements of mundane, daily life that many of us take for granted. But for Bur- khart it’s nothing short of a miracle. “The first time AFP Patricia Jelgehuis. Thousands of year’s show also includes a pair- I was able to open and close my hands it really tulips — the country’s most iconic ing of exotic orchids with high-end gave me a sense of hope for the future,” Burkhart, flower — sway gently among grape fashion. now 24, said in a call with reporters. hyacinths and crocuses of every Visitors can admire dresses, Lead researchers Chad Bouton, Nick Annetta LISSE: Millions of bulbs have blos- shade and hue to create the gar- shoes and hats in a bold entwin- and Ali Rezai said the effort took a multi-disciplinary somed in a riot of colour from den’s colourful living tableaux. ing of material and flowers. There’s team of scientists from neurosurgery to electrical Delft blues to reds and porcelain The highlight this year is a bulb even a creamy white wedding engineering. The technique they used involves whites, drawing huge crowds to an mosaic of the Golden Age, depicting dress by Dutch haute couture reconnecting the brain to the body by bypassing annual Dutch springtime rite at the a traditional Delft blue-and-white designer Ronald Kolk, proudly the damaged spinal cord. For the interface to work, renowned Keukenhof gardens. tile showing Dutch trade across the displaying a cascade of orchids as Burkhart concentrates on the movement he wants The world’s largest bulb gar- seas and Amsterdam’s grand, tow- part of the voluminous skirt. to make and a computer connected to the chip den, which boasts some seven ering canalside homes. Adding to the decadent display translates those signals into something his muscles million flowers, has depicted in Other exhibits at the gardens are hats by Philip Treacy, milliner understand. It turns out that each person has his or flowers this year’s theme of the in the western town of Lisse high- to such clients as the British royal her own unique language that makes the machine Netherlands Golden Age. light copies of the works of famous family and stars like Madonna. a kind of “interpreter”. Lasting from 1584-1702, this Dutch Masters, like Rembrandt and It’s the 67th annual springtime The study marks the first time a paralyzed was a time of unparallelled pros- Vermeer. And in case the humble display at the Keukenhof gardens, patient has been able to regain movement in his own perity for the small nation during tulip is not enough for the 800,000 created in 1857 and modelled on body — a total of six different wrist and hand motions which everything from “trade, art people expected to visit before the English gardens of the period, con- — by using signals that originated within the brain. and science” flourished, said guide park closes again on May 16, this taining some 20 floral displays.

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com PAGE | 22 QE 10,245.87 -0.42 PTS PAGE | 24 DOW 17,908.14 +186.89 PTS Georgetown University Saudi minister FTSE100 6,362.89 +120.50 PTS organises lecture on rules out oil Black Money BRENT $41.63 -$0.54 output cut

THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 • 7 Rajab 1437 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar

PM meets UK Commercial Secretary Qatar keen to strengthen SME sector: Minister

The ministry has issued new law, which is an important step in the transactions of the business sector, especially in the field of establishing companies promoting ease of doing business. Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani with Lord O’Neill of Gatley, Commercial Secretary to the Treasury, United Kingdom. Talks covered bilateral trade relations. By Sachin Kumar The Peninsula

DOHA: Minister of Economy and QIB records QR492m net profit Commerce H E Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim Al Thani has stated strength- ening Qatar’s Small and Medium in Q1; total assets at QR131bn Enterprises (SME) sector will further boost the country’s ongoing efforts to The Peninsula to less than 1 percent, one of the lowest in the indus- diversify its economy. Delivering the try, reflecting the quality of the Bank’s financing assets opening speech at the 12th Annual portfolio and its effective risk management framework. Meeting of International Network The Bank continued to pursue the conservative impair- for SMEs (INSME 2016) yesterday, the Minister of Economy and Commerce H E Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim Al DOHA: Qatar Islamic Bank’s (QIB) net ment policy with an improved coverage ratio Minister said government is keen to Thani speaking at the 12th Annual Meeting of International Network profit attributable to the shareholders for non-performing financing portfolio at 112 strengthen role of SMEs in the econ- for SMEs. Pic: A Basit/The Peninsula of amounted to QR492m for the first percent as of March 2016. omy. quarter of 2016, up 23 percent from International ratings agency Capital Intelli- To help remove obstacles that launching of comprehensive appli- innovative financing and advisory a year ago. Total assets of the bank gence has in April 2016 reaffirmed QIB’s Financial hinder the growth of Qatari SMEs, the cations to encourage SME owners and programs, along with marketing and has increased by 3 percent compared Strength Rating of ‘A’ with a stable outlook in ministry has issued the new compa- entrepreneurs to establish their busi- logistical support. For example ‘Jahiz’ to December 2015 and now stands at view of very good asset quality, strong capi- nies law, which is an important step nesses and projects. that provides fully equipped facil- QR131bn driven by a continued growth tal ratios and improved coverage ratio. Fitch, in the transactions of the business Abdul Aziz bin Nasser Al Khal- ities and tailored special services in the financing activities. in 2015 has upgraded QIB’s Long Term IDR to sector, especially in the field of estab- ifa, CEO of Qatar Development Bank for Qatari entrepreneurs to encour- Financing activities have now ‘A+’ from the previously held ‘A’ with a stable lishing companies promoting ease of highlighted the efforts made by age manufacturing. Following this, reached QR91bn having added QR4bn outlook. Standard & Poor’s Rating Services has doing business, added the Minister. QDB to support and develop SMEs. we can then help build and sell their representing 4 percent increase com- retained QIB’s Counterparty Credit Rating Qatari economy has gradually He said QDB organised 66 work- products globally through our ‘Tasdeer’ pared to December 2015. Customer at ‘A-’ with a stable outlook. In light of QIB’s transformed from an oil-based econ- shops for SMEs in 2015. Around 550 export program,” said Al Khalifa. “We Deposits of the Bank now stand at QR 89bn and Total positive performance, the bank has been recognised by omy to a knowledge-based economy entrepreneurs participated in these are always happy to host such events Shareholders’ Equity of the bank has reached QR13bn. highly influential international financial publications and in order to strengthen the non-oil and workshops and funding to different that enable us to share and exchange Total income for the three month period ended 31 reports as one of the leading regional Banks in 2016. One gas sector and the role of such sec- institutions reached $4.5bn. knowledge with international insti- March 2016 has reached QR1.28bn compared to QR950m of QIB’s latest commendations goes to its Group CEO, Bas- tors has seen significant growth by “Hosting such an influential tutions and organizations, allowing by end of March 2015. Income from financing and invest- sel Gamal, who was ranked the first of 100 best-performing 7.4 percent in the last quarter of 2015. global industry event shows the pres- us to explore new innovations and ing activities reached QR1.1bn at the end of March 2016 CEOs of listed companies in the GCC states from TRENDS & Qatar’s economy was able to over- tigious reputation Qatar has built as help identify further ways to diver- compared to QR817m for the three month period ended INSEAD Business School. QIB has also won other substan- come recent global slowdown due to a thriving business and investment sify Qatar’s economy to achieve Qatar March 2015. Net fee and commission income reached tial awards such as: Bank of the Year 2015 in Qatar by its strong legislation and laws, said destination, and its recognised efforts National Vision 2030,” he added. QR133m at the end of March 2016 compared to QR100m the Banker Magazine, and has been recognised by the the minister. to SMEs and private sector growth. INSME is a legally recognised for the three month period ended March 2015. Islamic Finance News (IFN) for being the ‘Best Islamic The Minister added that the min- During the event, Qatar Develop- not-for-profit association open to QIB was able to further improve the ratio of non-per- Bank in Qatar’ and for the ‘Best Deal of the Year - Reg- istry has adopted and provided a ment Bank will share its experience international membership based in forming financing portfolio to gross financing portfolio ulatory Capital’ in relation to its QR2bn Sukuk deal. range of initiatives and programmes in supporting SMEs and the success Italy. It was established 12 years ago to support SMEs, including the we have achieved in this area through and comprises of 77 members across

Qatar sets new regulations for Focus on new LNG projects crucial: RasGas CEO banks’ foreign currency holdings

The Peninsula Globalisation of Gas’, Al Muhan- “Approximately 30 countries nadi examined the LNG industry’s currently import LNG, twice the Reuters changing market dynamics, number of countries import- focusing on the past decade’s ing just 10 years ago, and DOHA: Despite a potential near rapid increase in production RasGas anticipates that the pace term oversupply of liquefied capacity and liquidity, and ever- of growth will continue, and that DUBAI: Qatar’s central bank has issued new maximum limits on open posi- natural gas (LNG), investment growing global LNG demand. many more customers and coun- tions that banks can hold in foreign currency, according to a circular that was in new liquefaction projects “Worldwide, LNG production tries will be importing LNG in the sent to banks last wee. The circular set the maximum limit for dollar open will be crucial to avoid a possible has increased to over 230 million next decade.” positions - surplus and deficit - at 25 per cent of capital and reserves, while under-supply situation in the early tonnes per year, and we expect Given this significant increase the limit set for all other foreign currencies was set at 5 per cent. 2020s, cautioned RasGas Company it to further increase to approx- in global demand, Al Muhannadi The aggregate open positions for all foreign currencies combined was Limited’s (RasGas) Chief Execu- imately 370 million tonnes per indicated that under supply could set at 30 per cent of bank capital and reserves, the circular said. tive Officer, Hamad Mubarak Al year by 2020 from develop- be the market reality in the early In its brief circular, the central bank said it was “keen to limit the risks Muhannadi, at the LNG 18 Inter- ments under construction or 2020s “if no new projects are of foreign currency open positions”. It did not elaborate and central bank national Conference and Exhibition projects that have reached FID,” sanctioned”. More than 2,000 officials could not be reached to comment on Tuesday. RasGas CEO Hamad Mubarak Al Muhannadi on Liquefied Natural Gas, in Perth, he confirmed. delegates attended the 18th Banks have a 12-month grace period to comply to the new regulations, speaking at the LNG 18 conference in Perth, Australia. Yet the growth in demand International Conference and the circular said. Under the previous regulations, lenders’ foreign currency Australia. In his speech titled, ‘The for LNG has been as significant: Exhibition. assets must be at least equal to their liabilities, traders said. 22 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 BUSINESS Qatar’s annual inflation rate hits 3.3% in March

The rise in annual inflation was primarily attributed to the increasing prices seen in the eight groups, namely “Recreation and Culture” by 11.2 percent followed Dr Reem Al Ansari delivering the lecture. by rising cost of “Education” which became 7.1 percent expensive than a Georgetown University organises year ago. lecture on Black Money highest surge prices), followed by respective indices in this month have rising cost of “Education” which risen, namely: “Recreation and Culture” became 7.1 percent expensive than rose by 0.7 percent. “Clothing and Foot- By Mohammad Shoeb a year ago. wear”, “Restaurants and Hotels, and The Peninsula in several countries, it can then be international standard for combat- The Peninsula The prices of “Housing, Water, “Miscellaneous Goods and Services” returned to its owner, ready to be ing of money laundering,” referring Electricity and Gas” surged by 5.4 witnessed marginal increase of 0.4 used as legitimate funds. to the nation’s membership to the percent, “Furniture and House- percent each. “Housing, Water, Elec- Adding that Qatar is also a tar- Financial Action Task Force, an hold Equipment” and “Transport“ tricity and Gas” by 0.1 percent. DOHA: Dr Reem Al Ansari, a pro- get of this criminal activity, she said: intergovernmental policy-making DOHA: Qatar’s inflation, based on by 1.5 percent each, “Miscellaneous A decline in prices was also noticed fessor at Qatar University’s College “Qatari authorities have responded body, established in 1989 to pro- consumer price index (CPI), rose Goods and Services” by 1.4 percent, in “Food and Beverages” by 0.7 per- of Law and the 2015-2016 CIRS Qatar to the threat of money launder- mote effective implementation of 3.3 percent year-on-year (y-o-y) in “Restaurants and Hotels” by 1.1 per- cent, “Transport” by 0.6 percent. The University Fellow at Georgetown Uni- ing aggressively with the National measures for combating threats to March 2016, while the index (which cent, and “Communication” by 0.2 other groups: “Tobacco”, “Furniture versity in Qatar delivered a lecture on Money Law in 2010.” This compre- the integrity of the international was estimated at 107.6) remained percent. and Household Equipment”, “Health”, ‘Black Money’ at International and hensive law was enacted following financial system. stable when compared on month- Also, there has been a decrease in “Communication”, and “Education” Regional Studies (CIRS) Monthly Dia- the unsatisfactory conclusion of an The consequences of unchecked on-month (m-o-m) basis to the CPI price levels in other groups, namely: have remained flat at the last month’s logue Lecture Series. IMF-led evaluation report of Qatar’s money laundering, she concluded, of February 2016, figures released by “Food and Beverages” by 1.9 percent, price level. Defining the term “money laun- banking system. “That was Qatar’s are severe, including increased the Ministry of Development Plan- “Health” by 0.3 percent. No change The CPI of March, 2016 exclud- dering”, she said money laundering awakening to the threat, and it led criminal activity and currency ning and Statistics (MDPS) revealed. has been recorded in “Clothing and ing “Housing, Water, Electricity and refers to an amount of money leav- to the new law.” inflation in developing economies, The rise in annual inflation was Footwear” and “Tobacco” groups. Gas” group stood at 105.4, recorded ing from destination A, and using Further strengthening Qatar’s which bear the consequences of eco- primarily attributed to the increas- When compared on m-o-m basis, stability when compared to the index techniques to make it seem like the anti-corruption commitment, she nomic collapse when critical funds ing prices seen in the eight groups, the CPI for March, 2016 (compared with of February 2016, and an increase of funds were obtained from destination added that, “Qatar now adheres to simply disappear as they continue namely: “Recreation and Culture” the CPI of February, 2016), showed that 2.6 percent in comparison to the CPI B, a legal source.” Once the money the series of recommendations that through the multi-step money clean- by 11.2 percent (witnessed the there were five main groups, where of March, 2015. has moved through several banks FATF has developed and that set the ing process.

German Doner Kebab outlet opens in Qatar Lord of the Wings at Pearl-Qatar The Peninsula foodies of Qatar all enjoyed a scrumptious meat loaded menu with delicious vegetarian options availa- DOHA: Lord of the Wings has ble as well. landed in Qatar. Newly launched DOHA: International brand German German Doner Kebab was in the country with its first branch Doner Kebab has extended its reach brought to Qatar by Al Siddiqi Hospi- opening at Medina Centrale, on the to Qatar and is all set now to satisfy tality, the hospitality arm of Al Siddiqi prestigious Pearl-Qatar, Lord of the the taste buds of foodies in Doha. Holding, which operates some of the Wings is all set to delight food lovers Currently with 40 outlets globally, the most widely recognized restaurants and give everyone the best wings and brand is set to open more outlets in in the country. The new brand was burgers experience that exceeds the the region to meet the high demand added to the Al Siddiqi portfolio expectations of the pickiest of wings for the original German Doner Kebab. thanks to the partnership fostered aficionados. At German Doner Kebab, the authen- by Mohammed Al Siddiqi - Managing Lord of the Wings is a contem- tic kebabs are big in flavour and size, Director of Al Siddiqi Holding, Dinesh porary American casual diner that and you will definitely keep com- Chadha - CEO of Al Siddiqi Holding, features a full dine-in menu that Dinesh Chadha (left), CEO of Al Siddiqi Holding and Marc Moudabber- ing back for more. In contrast to and Imran Sayeed - COO of German makes it the ultimate casual din- Brand Owner, jointly opening the outlet at Medina Centrale, at The the traditional unhealthy image of Doner Kebab. ing destination for urban foodies in Pearl-Qatar. kebabs, German Doner Kebab offers Free parking is available at Qatar. a gourmet food experience free from Medina Centrale, The Pearl-Qatar With four types of wings to definitely not your average restau- Opening hours: additives and preservatives. near Spinneys and Novo Cinemas. choose from, and 16 different sauces rant. For the dedicated wings fans, Sunday – Wednesday: 11am – The launch of the brand was cel- Opening hours: that range in flavour from mild honey enjoy unlimited wings with bot- 12am, Thursdays and Saturdays: 11am ebrated in style, with German Doner Sunday – Wednesday: 11am - mustard to fiery buffalo suicide, in tomless sauces, or try your hand at – 1am, Fridays: 1pm – 1am. Kebab formally opening the doors to 11:30pm, Thursdays and Saturdays: addition to Craft burgers that are the Hot Wings challenge where you Free parking is available at the residents of Qatar through a VIP 11am - 12 am and Fridays: 1pm - 12 customizable so you can build your devour 8 fiery wings to the bone (– Medina Centrale, The Pearl-Qatar event. The best and most dedicated am perfect burger, Lord of the Wings is if you can handle it, that is!). near Spinneys and Novo Cinemas. Todd Cilano appointed as Movenpick to roll out new hotel Gulf Air offers regional VP and GM of 50 percent off on Four Seasons Hotel Doha and apartment concept in Jeddah miles redemption

The Peninsula The Peninsula The Peninsula

DUBAI: Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts MANAMA: Gulf Air, the King- DOHA: Todd Cilano (pictured), has (MHR) has revealed plans to open its dom of Bahrain’s national carrier, been appointed Regional Vice Pres- first hotel and apartment property in recently launched an exclusive offer ident and General Manager and of Jeddah in 2017 in a bid to meet strong for the airline’s Falconflyer loyalty Four Seasons Hotel Doha. Cilano demand for branded extended-stay programme members offering 50% will be responsible for oversee- accommodation in Saudi Arabia’s off Falconflyer miles redemption. ing the Hotel, along with regional booming seaport city. Customers can redeem their Falcon- responsibilities supervising Four The Swiss hospitality firm has flyer miles for Gulf Air tickets – at a Seasons Hotels & Resorts in Mauri- signed an agreement with prominent capitalising on the gap in the market President, Hadia Abdul Latif Jameel 50% discounted rate – between now tius, Seychelles, Johannesburg, and real estate and investment company, for branded extended-stay accom- Group. and 30th June 2016. the Serengeti Lodge in Tanzania, Hadia Abdul Latif Jameel Group, to modation,” explained Mr. Andreas Signing Mövenpick Hotel & Apart- The airline’s 50% discount* He makes the move to Doha from manage the 164-unit Mövenpick Mattmüller, Chief Operating Officer, ments Al Tahlia helps to consolidate offer is available to Falconflyer Four Seasons Resort Mauritius, where Throughout his 21-year career, Hotel & Apartments Al Tahlia Jeddah, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts Middle MHR’s position as a market leader members when redeeming Fal- he successfully served in a similar role Cilano has worked in eight differ- which will command a sought-after East and South Asia. in Jeddah where the company cur- conflyer miles online at gulfair. as Regional Vice President and Gen- ent countries, leaving his mark at 11 location on Hail Street, close to Jed- Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments rently operates two properties, but com, via any local Gulf Air office eral Manager. Under his leadership, Four Seasons propertieswith previ- dah’s major commercial, financial, Al Tahlia will be strategically located now has three pipelined, taking its or by calling the airline’s 24 hour Mauritius was continuously recog- ous positions at Four Seasons Hotel consular and shopping districts. next to Jameel Square, a Grade-A total number of keys in the city to 923 Worldwide Contact Centre at (+973) nized as one of the top resorts in the Alexandria; Four Seasons Resort With the modern-day corporate office building also developed by across five hotels by 2018. 17373737. The 50% redemption world by well-respected travel author- Chiang Mai and Four Seasons Tented traveller in mind, the property, part the Hadia Abdul Latif Jameel Group, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts plans promotion is valid from today until ities, including Forbes Travel Guide Camp Golden Triangle in Thailand; of a high-profile mixed-use develop- that is occupied by local and multi- to increase its KSA footprint by one- 30th June 2016. Enrolling in the and TripAdvisor. Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok; Four ment, features predominantly suites, national blue-chip corporate tenants. third, from a current 10 properties Gulf Air FalconFlyer Programme Joining Four Seasons in 1995, Seasons Hotel London; Four Seasons an all-day-dining outlet, a casual “This modern property with its (3,907 keys) to 15 (5,204) by 2018. and/or booking Gulf Air flights Cilano brings a wealth of luxury hos- Hotel Riyadh; Four Seasons Resort fine-food Indian restaurant, a gym prime location and efficient design, Upcoming projects include Möven- across the airline’s 39 destination pitality and management experience Nevis in the West Indies; Four Sea- with two spa treatment rooms, and will provide Jeddah’s growing cor- pick Hotel City Star Jeddah, opening network can be done online at gul- to Doha, along with a strong under- sons Resort The Biltmore at Santa four meeting rooms. porate community with a fresh new this year, Mövenpick Residences fair.com, by calling the airline’s standing of the Middle East having Barbara; and Four Seasons Hotel “It’s a flexible hotel and apart- concept that caters to their business Al Khobar (2017), Mövenpick Hotel 24 hour Worldwide Contact Cen- spent his time at the Four Sea- Washington, D. C., and most recently ment model that caters to both and leisure needs right on their door- Financial District Riyadh (2017) and tre on (+973) 17373737, or through sons Hotel Alexandria and Riyadh. Four Seasons Resort Mauritius. short- and long-stay clients, step.” added Mr. Osama Al Haddad, Mövenpick Hotel Heraa Jeddah (2018). any Gulf Air sales office. BUSINESS THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 23 QP highlights Qatar’s LNG activities at LNG 18

part in the 18th International Con- flare reduction in the LNG industry. The QP exhibition ference & Exhibition on Liquefied LNG 18 has attracted the par- Natural Gas (LNG 18), which began ticipation of over 5,000 industry showcases the on Tuesday in Perth, Australia. professionals from over 60 countries activities of the LNG 18 is considered as the pre- worldwide. In addition to the con- mier event for the world’s LNG ference and exhibition, the event also corporation’s industry as it features the largest features workshops, a training course Industrial Cities number of high-level LNG industry on the basics of LNG, poster sessions, leaders as plenary speakers. The a student forum, networking oppor- Directorate as well four-day event is presented by the tunities, and technical tours to major as the operations of International Gas Union (IGU), the LNG facilities in Australia. The over- Qatargas and RasGas, Gas Technology Institute (GTI) and all theme of the event is “Redrawing the International Institute of Refrig- the Global Map of Gas” to empha- which is also a Global eration (IIR), with the support of size the changing LNG market Sponsor of the event. the Australian Petroleum Produc- realities due to various factors such tion & Exploration Association Ltd. as international trade, geopolitics, (APPEA). technological innovations, invest- QP joins other major oil & gas ments and regulations. companies exhibiting at LNG 18 at Qatari delegation at LNG 18 in Perth, Australia. First launched in Chicago, Illinois, The Peninsula the Perth Convention and Exhibi- in 1968, the International Conference tion Centre. The QP exhibition stand Qatar’s current standing as the world’s of RasGas, who delivered a speech at from Qatargas also set to deliver & Exhibition on Liquefied Natural showcases the activities of the corpo- No. 1 producer and exporter of LNG, the event’s second plenary session, presentations in the commercial Gas is organized every three years, ration’s Industrial Cities Directorate with its 77 million tonnes per annum which focused on the topic “The Glo- and special interest streams of the and the 14th edition of the event was DOHA: Qatar Petroleum (QP), along as well as the operations of Qatargas (mta) of LNG production capacity. balisation of Gas.” conference sessions. Their presen- hosted in Doha, Qatar, way back in with its joint venture companies Ras- and RasGas, which is also a “Glo- The delegation from Qatar is Many members of the Qatari tations focused on the incentives 2004. The next event, LNG 19, will Gas Company Limited and Qatargas bal Sponsor” of the event. The stand headed by Hamad Mubarak Al- delegation are attending the LNG 18 needed to meet future LNG demand be held in Shanghai, China, on April Operating Company Limited, took prominently highlights the State of Muhannadi, Chief Executive Officer conference, with two senior officials and their program for effective 1-5, 2019. Managing tax in the Al Mansoori explains role of Qatar Exchange region challenging: PwC The Peninsula world through a hands-on approach, while also serving as leaders in their The Peninsula a temporary branch but the tax law has communities. a much broader definition of perma- The club, which is entirely stu- nent establishments. This inconsistency DOHA: Rashid bin Ali Al Mansoori, dent-developed and student-driven, can lead to confusion on whether for- CEO of Qatar Exchange (QE) high- is committed to developing an active DOHA: Qatar is often perceived to be eign companies should pay corporation lighted the role of Qatari bourse investment banking culture by giving a low tax, or even a ‘no tax’ area, how- tax and suffer retention payments or be during a discussion panel organised GU-Q students a chance to develop ever, a recent survey of the region’s tax subject to withholding tax. recently by the Investment Club at and pitch investment ideas, create and finance leaders shows that man- The reclaim process on reten- Georgetown University in Qatar (GU- mock stock portfolios and under- aging tax in the region can be complex tion payments is another area that Q) to mark the launch of the club’s take other projects associated with and challenging. the survey identifies as an area for new magazine. investment banking. The magazine PwC Middle East recently launched review. Currently, when a foreign con- Al Mansoori explained the role provides an in-depth look at various its latest tax survey Managing tax which tractor performs its services through of the stock market in encourag- aspects of the industry, and echoes discusses tax and business challenges a temporary branch, the employing ing companies to list on the market voices and opinions from global and that companies in the region face, the company is required to retain 3 per- and boosting liquidity and its role local leaders within this field. way their tax functions are organised, cent of the value of the contract or the in offering diversified investment As part of its social responsibil- and the impact of international and final payment, whichever is greater. opportunities to both local and inter- CEO of Qatar Exchange Rashid bin Ali Al Mansoori during discussion ity activities, QE signed cooperation domestic tax reforms. “Tax regimes The foreign contractor can only get national investors and achieving the at Georgetown University in Qatar. agreements with several Qatari- in the region can be complex and these funds released once the con- best international transparency and based educational institutions such challenging to manage and their tract is complete, all taxes have been disclosure practices. He also briefed the audience the human and economic develop- as the Faculty of Islamic Studies of implementation can give rise to uncer- assessed and paid and a No objec- At the Investment Club event, on the investment tools and prod- ment. Based on this responsibility, HBK University, Carnegie Mellon tainty and confusion, which in turn tion certificate is issued by Qatar tax the CEO took part in a Q&A about ucts available at Qatar Exchange for QE frequently participates in student University, and Qatar University in creates risk. As a result companies authority. For long term contracts, this the industry and had a discussion all types of retail and institutional activities and forums that constitute a order to promote investment aware- need to manage their tax affairs with can result in a considerable delay in with the club’s faculty advisor Dr investors. vital part of the educational process, ness among various segments of the the same care and attention to detail receiving the retention payments. Christine Schiwietz, who is also the QE’s support of and contribution where learning happens outside the society. These agreements resulted that applies everywhere else in the Neil O’Brien, Head of Tax at assistant dean for academic affairs to educational, training and aware- classroom. By engaging in real world in various education and training world,” says Dean Kern, PwC Middle PwC Qatar, said: “As the Qatar at GU-Q, on the role of QE in serving ness activities are part of its social events and challenging students to initiatives and programmes that East Tax and Legal services Leader. economy grows, Tax administra- the national economy as well as the responsibility in supporting all seg- grapple with the same opportunities targeted university students as well A key theme that emerged from tions are required to manage an developments and achievements seen ments of the local community, in and risks that are present in invest- as various segments of citizens and the survey is the lack of clarity in the increasing number of taxpayers in the past five years. line with QNV 2030 focusing on ment banking, they learn about their residents. application of tax law and to some in a timely and efficient manner. extent what laws are in place. For Removing uncertainty and consid- example in Qatar, foreign investment ering new models of compliance law does not recognise a permanent could provide increased clarity and establishment of a foreign company consistency for taxpayers whilst Commercial Bank names debit card campaign winners that is not registered with the Min- maintaining resources efficiency istry of Economy and Commerce as for tax administration.” The Peninsula QIC to be a facilitator for SMEs DOHA: Commercial Bank, has announced winners of its Debit Card campaign, which rewarded its Sadara The Peninsula and Personal Banking customers for using their Commercial Bank Debit Cards overseas, by giving them a chance to win up to QR5,000 worth DOHA: Qatar Insurance Company (QIC) yesterday said that it aims to facil- of Dnata travel vouchers. itated development of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Commercial Bank customers “As a leading national insurer, it is our duty to facilitate development of who used their Commercial Bank SMEs – the engines of economic growth and diversification. In fact, it would Debit Card for an overseas transac- be difficult for the region to support the anticipated growth and manage tion; either an ATM cash withdrawal, today’s evolving and complex risk landscape without having an insurer to an online transaction, or a transac- absorb the loss and compensate for damages following an accident,” said tion at a merchant outlet during the The winners with Commercial Bank officials. Deputy Group President & CEO of QIC – MENA region, Salem Al Mannai. promotion period, had the opportu- “As insurers, we play a vital role in facilitating growth of SMEs and start- nity to win up to QR5,000 worth of ups by mitigating risks” said Al Mannai. “Running businesses in today’s Dnata travel vouchers. Debit Cards are safe and easy to use, EGM, Chief Consumer and Private benefit from having seamless access world involves plethora of risks. Without having to worry or be baffled by The campaign highlights the con- employing Chip & PIN technology and Banking said: “Commercial Bank to their money, from anywhere in the any unforeseen expenses arising out of accidental damage of office building, venience of using Commercial Bank are also 3D Secure enabled, offering Debit Cards are safe to use when world. Throughout this campaign, our equipment and machinery, loss of revenue due to property damage, third Debit Cards for transactions while at Debit Card customers security and spending locally in Qatar, overseas aim was to highlight to customers the party or employer’s liability, our package policy Business Shield Insurance home or abroad, as they eliminate peace of mind when they use their when travelling and online, employ- benefits of using their Commercial caters for all business insurance requirements so that entrepreneurs can the need to withdraw and carry large cards for online purchases. ing the latest technology and security Bank Debit cards and to reward allocate more time on nurturing their businesses,” he said. amounts of cash. Commercial Bank Dean Proctor, Commercial Bank standards to ensure our customers them for their usage.” Gulf Intelligence Water Security Forum to discuss Qatar’s water challenges

The Peninsula Development (R&D) Challenges, along desalinated seawater – an expen- counts.” The oil and gas industry is to support Qatari stakeholders in partnerships are a great example of col- with energy security and cyber secu- sive process. by far the largest industrial user of their move to a more sustainable laboration and capacity building”, he rity. The Gulf Intelligence Forum will “A holistic approach is vital when freshwater, accounting for more than management of water resources and continued. focus on the best R&D strategies for it comes to resolving water scarcity 15 percent of global usage. Improv- through open discussions and fruit- During the Gulf Intelligence Qatar DOHA: The Gulf IntelligenceQatar innovative technologies that can issues in Qatar and beyond. Collabo- ing the economic value of water ful exchanges, we hope to identify Industry Water Security Forum, the Industry Water Security Forum sched- streamline water management and ration between industry, government usage in Qatar’s industries is rapidly promising ways for efficient reuse of top 100 stakeholders impacting water uled to be held at Qatar University’s desalination techniques in Qatar and academia is key to giving the right climbing companies’ agendas, be it water during oil and gas production”, security in Qatar will provide recom- Research Complex on April 25, will – the clock is ticking and defining message to both industries and com- by recycling, reusing or reducing the said Pierre Montaud, Director of Total mendations that address critical discuss the best strategies for tackling efficient strategies is imperative. munities on how best to use water in consumption of water. The economics Research Centre Qatar (TRCQ) “After a questions regarding Qatar’s future; Qatar’s water challenge . Key stake- Cooperation within industry and the future,” said Hassan Al Derham, behind better water management has collaboration with QEERI on advanced Produced Water, Industry Consump- holders in industry, government and industry’s cooperation with govern- President of Qatar University (QU). come under an even brighter spotlight characterization of produced water, we tion, Desalination and Water Technology. academia will attend the Forum. ment and academia is critical. Qatar “Water scarcity is not a problem that due to the negative impact of lower oil have now initiated a Research partner- The final recommendations put forward The challenge of bettering Qatar’s only receives on average seven inches will go away and change is inevitable. prices since June 2014; energy compa- ship with Qatar University for beneficial during the Forum will be compiled to cre- long-term water security is the third of rain per year and 99% of the coun- How we make that change econom- nies are streamlining budgets. re-use for irrigation. This effort is a con- ate an R&D roadmap that betters Qatar’s of Qatar’s three Grand Research and try’s municipal demand is fed by ical and sustainable is what really “It is a part of Total’s commitment tribution to global water security. Such long-term water security. 24 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 BUSINESS Opec warns of oversupply ahead of Doha meeting

continuing a slow recovery from the Iranian oil production in March was great plunge of 2014-15. 3.3 million barrels per day (bpd), up Opec member Iran “Positive market sentiments con- from 2.9 million bpd in January and has so far rejected tinue to arise from the output freeze Saudi rules out oil output cut an average of 2.8 million bpd in 2015. plan being considered by major crude Saudi oil production by contrast attempts to freeze exporters,” as well as an expected fall was 10.1 million bpd, unchanged from production as it in output in the United States and AFP production in March remained January or from the kingdom’s aver- elsewhere, Opec said. almost at the same levels as in age last year. Opec yesterday also ramps up output “Nevertheless, hurdles prevail as January. trimmed slightly its forecast for global following the lifting oversupply persists and inventories Iran has said it will not join a oil demand this year to 94.18 million of sanctions this year remain high,” it warned. RIYADH: Saudi oil minister Ali Al freeze as it is still ramping up pro- bpd from its previous projection of All oil producers, not just those in Naimi (pictured), appeared to rule duction following the lifting of 94.23 million bpd, reflecting slowed as part of 2015’s the 13-nation Opec but also non-car- out cutting his country’s oil produc- nuclear-linked sanctions in January. economic momentum in Latin Amer- nuclear deal with tel members like Russia, have suffered tion in remarks published yesterday, Saudi Arabia’s deputy crown ica. In 2015 demand was 92.98 million from the more than 60-percent drop days ahead of a producers’ meeting prince Mohammed bin Salman has bpd. On the supply side, Opec kept to major powers. in oil prices since mid-2014. aimed at propping up crude prices. said the kingdom, Opec’s top pro- its projection that non-Opec output An agreement in Doha on Sunday Asked about the kingdom’s posi- ducer, would only freeze output if in 2016 would be 56.39 million bpd, to freeze production would, in theory tion on reducing output, Naimi said: Iran and other major producers are down from 57.13 million bpd in 2015, at least, reduce the glut, boost prices “Forget about this topic,” Al Hayat also on board. a slightly bigger contraction than pre- Reuters and help repair their in some cases — daily reported on its website, with- Opec warned yesterday in its viously forecast. for example Venezuela — dangerously out elaborating. April report that the world remains The main reason was lower tattered public finances. “Oil prices are always volatile,” awash with crude, but said oil prices expectations for crude oil produc- “When there is coordination he said. producers will meet Sunday in rose more than 20 percent in March, tion from China’s onshore mature VIENNA: Opec warned yesterday that between major producers in Opec and Members of the oil-export- Doha to discuss freezing produc- continuing a slow recovery from the fields and further declines in the the world remains awash with crude non-Opec countries, it will certainly ing cartel Opec and non-Opec tion at January levels. Saudi Arabia’s huge drop of 2014-15. United States, where shale oil produc- ahead of a crunch meeting in Doha help to stabilise prices,” Kuwait’s act- ers have proved surprisingly resilient between cartel members and other ing oil minister Anas Al Saleh told to the lower oil price. As usual, Opec major producers to discuss a produc- reporters. fell back slightly yesterday. would it necessarily lift prices. powers. Saudi Arabia’s deputy crown gave no forecast for its own output tion freeze to boost the oil price. Media reports on Tuesday sug- What would be a momentous Opec member Iran has so far prince Mohamed bin Salman has said this year, saying only that its mem- The Organization of the Petro- gested that Russia and Saudi Arabia, agreement among the 15 or so oil rejected attempts to freeze produc- the kingdom, Opec’s top producer, bers pumped in March 32.25 million leum Exporting Countries said in its two of the world’s biggest producers, producers — representing some 75 tion as it ramps up output following would only freeze output if Iran and bpd, based on secondary sources, up April monthly report that oil prices had already reached a deal, boosting percent of global output — in Doha the lifting of sanctions this year as other major producers are also on from an average of 31.85 million bpd rose more than 20 percent in March, oil prices to a high for the year. These is far from guaranteed, however. Nor part of 2015’s nuclear deal with major board. The Opec report showed that in 2015.

Riyad Bank Mall of Qatar partners with International Q1 net profit NYT at the France Conference flat from previous year The Peninsula Michael Kowalski, Chairman of will positively transform luxury the board, Tiffany & Co to name and leisure experiences on offer a few. in Qatar”, he added. Rony Mourani, General Man- With extensive natural sky Reuters DOHA: As a partner of the ager of Mall of Qatar, said luxury lighting across the vast space, International New York Times’ experiences are as important as Mall of Qatar will offer visitors Luxury Conference 2016, Mall luxury products: “It is essen- a wide selection of major inter- of Qatar established itself as a tial to share new ideas and fresh national brands, over 100 food DUBAI: Riyad Bank, Saudi Arabia’s luxury and leisure destination perspectives on emerging trends and beverage outlets and fine fourth-largest lender by assets, that bridges the gap between impacting the luxury industry, by dining options, a 5-star luxury posted a 0.2 rise in first-quarter East and West. partnering with luxury industry hotel - part of the Curio Collec- net profit yesterday, ahead of ana- Held on April 5th & 6th at leaders Mall of Qatar validates tion by Hilton - and an impressive lysts’ forecasts. Waldorf Astoria-owned Hotel Tri- the luxury and leisure experi- array of unique entertainment The bank said it made 1.17 bil- anon Palace in Versailles, France, ences in the region.” experiences. lion riyals ($321.3m) in the three the international conference “Mall of Qatar by design is lux- Now in its 15th year, this months to Mar. 31, citing an 8.4 “Luxury Beyond Product” brought urious and this filters through to year’s conference was hosted and percent decline in operating together global luxury industry each and every detail within the moderated by New York Times expenses for the marginal increase leaders that include Marco Biz- mall. After analysing that lux- fashion director Vanessa Friedman. in earnings. zarri, CEO of Gucci, Maureen ury shoppers maintained a strong Attendees of the luxury confer- This helped to offset a 3.5 Chiquet, former global CEO of association between shopping and ence were also delighted to visit percent drop in total operating Chanel, Richard Mille founder leisure in a retail environment, the Chateau de Versailles, where income, which dipped due to a fall of the luxury watchmaker brand our vision was to offer a luxurious a prestigious gala dinner was held in fee and commission income and Richard Mille, John Demsey, entertainment destination that will at La Gallerie des Batailles hosted lower gains from non-trading and Executive Group President, The host the world’s first live entertain- by the jeweller and watchmaker A speaker at the International New York Times’ Luxury Conference 2016. investments, it said. Estee Lauder Companies and ment resident troupe in a mall that Chopard. Four analysts polled by Reu- ters had on average forecast the bank’s quarterly profit would be 962.34 million riyals. Saudi companies issue brief earnings statements early in the Emaar Properties says to split with India JV partner reporting period before publishing more detailed results later. Riyad Bank has been ham- Reuters seen plenty of struggles along the say that it had “agreed to take steps It aimed to build homes, offices constructing 49 projects with total pered in recent quarters by higher way including a failed stock mar- for the reorganisation of Emaar MGF and shopping centres for India’s rap- saleable value of 187.45bn rupees. provisioning and a rate of loan ket flotation and delays to many of Land Limited”. idly-growing middle class as their According to Emaar MGF’s growth generally below the aver- its projects. Emaar denied speculation in incomes were rising. website, it has ongoing projects age for the sector. DUBAI/DELHI: Dubai’s Emaar The demerger will “enable Emaar Indian media last July that it was However, it has so far completed including in the northern city of It had reported falling earnings Properties plans to split with its to implement focused strategy for its planning a split, insisting that India only a handful of projects, with many Gurgaon, Chennai in the south and in the last three quarters. Indian joint venture partner through real estate business in India and will was a key market for Emaar through still under construction and suffer- Jaipur in the west. Loans and advances at the a demerger process, the emirate’s allow the business to undertake future Emaar MGF. ing from long delays. Emaar MGF Emaar MGF also came under fire end of March stood at 152.56 bil- biggest property developer said on expansion strategies,” as well as drive The Dubai-based developer, Land Limited posted a net loss of from the government in New Delhi lion riyals, gaining 10.52 percent Wednesday. its ongoing projects, Emaar said in a known for building the world’s tall- 3.53bn rupees ($53m) in 2015, nar- for shoddy construction and months on the same point of 2015, while The move ends a decade-long bourse statement. est building in the emirate, the Burj rower than the 3.84bn rupees it lost of delays after being contracted to deposits edged 0.1 percent up to relationship between Emaar and It did not provide further details Khalifa, entered the Indian market in the previous year, according to deliver the $230m athletes village 165.2 billion riyals over the same MGF Developments through Emaar or a time frame for when the in 2005 through its partnership with the ICRA ratings agency, which said for the 2010 Commonwealth Games period. MGF Land Limited, one which has demerger would happen, except to MGF. in a January note that the firm was held in the Indian capital.

Equipment for rent Cuba opens wholesale market to some private businesses

AP prices 20 percent below retail. They Cubans, leading to bitter complaints will also be able to do business with that the country’s socialist system no state-run importers, a potentially longer serves ordinary people. important new benefit that could Cuba imports most of its food HAVANA: Cuba says it is opening its give access to US-made goods. and consumer goods but private and state-controlled wholesale market to The new measures also estab- cooperatively run businesses have a limited number of private business lish price caps on some goods been unable to import through nor- owners in response to rising prices bought wholesale and sold privately, mal channels, forcing them to depend that have angered many ordinary among them Cuban-produced soft on informal networks that arrange Cubans. drinks and beer, rum, cigarettes and for Cuban airline passengers to bring WIthout access to wholesale chicken. State media said the meas- hundreds of millions of dollars of goods, private business have been ures would go into effect on May 2. good each year into the country in buying basic supplies in retail out- Under economic reforms that their checked bags. lets and raising the prices to generate began under President Raul Castro, Granting access to state-run profit, leading to widespread hikes Cuba has been slowly allowing private importers could allow private busi- in the cost of food and many house- enterprise to compete with state-run nesses to take advantage of new US hold goods. businesses saddled by decades of inef- regulations that allow American State-run media said Wednesday ficiency and lack of investment. companies to export virtually any Jean-Michel Lamothe (left), a 45-year-old Irishman who has launched a rental site for equipment that food and personal-service busi- Private businesses have been product to Cuba as long as its end among farmers, speaks with a farmer in front of a corn thrasher which is for hire, at his property near nesses that are either cooperatively dramatically outperforming gov- user is a private business, worker- Mont-de-Marsan in southwestern France. run or rent space from the govern- ernment-run enterprises but charge owned cooperative or ordinary ment will be able to buy goods at prices out of the reach of most consumer. BUSINESS THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 25 IMF warns financial stability risks rising

“If the growth and inflation out- and central bank governors. The for- The IMF said in its looks degrade further, the risk of mal meetings begin on Friday and a loss of confidence would rise. In continue through Sunday. latest Global Financial such circumstances, recurrent bouts The IMF stability report said neg- Stability Report that of financial volatility could interact ative interest rate policies, along with with balance sheet vulnerabilities,” bond purchases, were “crucial” to financial system risks the IMF said in the report. boosting economic growth, mark- have risen since the “Risk premiums could rise and ing a sharp contrast with German financial conditions could tighten, Finance Minister Wolfgang Schae- last report in October creating a pernicious feedback loop uble’s criticism of the European and market turmoil of weak growth, low inflation and Central Bank’s negative rates as caus- rising debt burdens,” it added. ing problems for German banks and could easily recur and Worries about China’s growth depositors alike. Although they have intensify if no action slowdown and transition to a more reduced bank profit margins, the is taken to clean up consumer-driven economy helped report said banks would ultimately spark the most recent financial benefit from stronger growth and bank balance sheets, turmoil, and the IMF said China’s the ability to cut non-deposit fund- particularly in China struggling state enterprise sector is ing costs. straining bank balance sheets. The However, should the IMF’s worst- and Europe. report estimates that bank loans to case market disruption scenario companies potentially at risk in China occur, its modeling suggests that Visitors gathering at Amazon booth during the 2016 China International Electronic Commerce Expo in Yiwu, could translate into potential bank potential global output growth could losses of approximately seven per- be reduced by 3.7 percentage points east China’s Zhejiang province. The expo has attracted 1,185 e-commerce companies from 12 countries Reuters cent of the country’s gross domestic over five years—effectively the loss including Canada, France and Germany. product. of nearly a year’s worth of growth at “This may seem like a large current levels. number, but it is manageable given Conversely, the Fund argues in WASHINGTON: World financial China’s bank and policy buffers and the report that actions to reduce Slimmer Kindle e-reader launched markets have calmed after turmoil continued strong growth in the econ- liquidity risks, clean up non-per- earlier this year, but more needs to omy,” said Jose Vinals, head of the forming loan problems left over be done to ensure global financial IMF’s Monetary and Capital Markets from the last financial crisis in stability amid slowing growth, weak Department. advanced economies and reduce Reuters 27. Since first launching the Kindle in The company said the new Kin- commodity prices and worries The report complements the vulnerabilities in emerging mar- 2007, Amazon has continued to roll dle comes with a dual battery system, about China’s economy, the Inter- IMF’s gloomy World Economic Out- ket banks could add 1.7 percentage out gadgets like its Fire tablets and meaning that attaching the device national Monetary Fund warned look publication released on Tuesday, points to annual baseline growth by most recently Echo, a line of voice to its cover will start recharging it yesterday. in which the crisis lending institution 2018 — roughly half of this year’s SAN FRANCISCO: Amazon.com Inc activated speakers. automatically. The IMF said in its latest Global cut its growth forecasts for the fourth estimated growth. rolled out a new Kindle e-reader yes- The Kindle has emerged as the The Kindle Oasis weighs 4.6 Financial Stability Report that finan- time in the past year. The report also made a case for terday, its eighth and slimmest device most dominant e-reader in the mar- ounces and is 3.4 mm at its thinnest cial system risks have risen since the The report comes as finance bank consolidation, particularly in in the series, with a charger that is ket as Rakuten’s Kobo and Barnes point. “It’s the most advanced Kin- last report in October and market ministers and central bankers from Europe. It argued that banks whose built into its cover. and Noble’s Nook struggled to win dle we’ve ever built - thin and ultra turmoil could easily recur and inten- around the world convene in Wash- business models are no longer via- The Kindle Oasis, which at customers. lightweight, it gets out of the way so sify if no action is taken to clean up ington this week for the spring ble following the financial crisis $289.99 will be the most expensive in Amazon hopes to attract readers you can lose yourself in the author’s bank balance sheets, particularly in meetings of the IMF, the World Bank hold some 15 percent of bank assets the range, will be available for orders to its high-end Kindle with its longer world,” Amazon founder and CEO Jeff China and Europe. and Group of 20 finance ministers in advanced economies. yesterday and start shipping on April lasting battery and sleek design. Bezos said in a statement.

Oil can top $50 a barrel Poll: Brexit vote would damage UK economy with freeze deal:

Bank of America Reuters & Bloomberg said Philip Rush, UK economist at nearly identical to a Reuters poll of central banks have struggled to get estimate in a Bloomberg survey of Nomura based in London, adding mainly UK-based economists taken inflation to rise and the BoE won’t analysts was for an increase to 0.4 that “longer term effects (are) less about two months ago that showed an be lifting interest rates from a record percent. While the measure is inching Bloomberg clear-cut.” overwhelming view remaining in the low until early next year, a sepa- closer to the Bank of England’s tar- LONDON: A British vote to leave the BayernLB economist Manuel UK would be best for the economy. rate Reuters poll found earlier this get of 2 percent, markets are still not European Union on June 23 would Andersch, based in Munich, was more If the vote does go in favour of month. pricing for policy makers to increase hurt the economy, an overwhelming emphatic: “Short-term disaster, long- the “In” campaign, Britain’s beaten- But a move from 0.5 percent, interest rates this year. Officials will NEW YORK: Oil prices can climb majority of economists said in a Reu- term damage.” down pound would rally 4 percent which would be the first change in announce their next policy decision above $50 a barrel if an output ters poll, and could push the Bank of Thirty-one of the 35 economists against the dollar in the immediate over seven years, could also be swung in two days. A referendum on Britain’s freeze deal is struck in Doha this England to cut interest rates for the polled said the economic impact from aftermath, a separate Reuters poll of by a Brexit vote. Seventeen of 26 membership to the European Union weekend, according to Bank of first time since the financial crisis. Britain leaving the EU would be neg- foreign exchange strategists found economists in the poll said if Britain in June may be supporting the case America Corp. Conversely, if the outcome was ative and four said it would have no last week. decides to leave the Bank’s next move for inaction. “A flat output profile for OPEC to remain a member of the EU, those effect. None said a Brexit would be While opinion polls on the ref- would likely be a cut. “The potential reaction to this (excluding Iran) and Russia would saying there would be a net positive positive for the economy. erendum suggest the result could be “If the UK votes to leave the EU, mild upward surprise should be lim- tighten global balances by almost economic boost and those saying neu- Roughly two-thirds of those who very close, most have come margin- then the BoE is likely to cut inter- ited as UK data and their impact on 0.5 million barrels a day in the tral were roughly split. answered questions on Brexit were ally in favour of an est rates to 0.25 percent, but also the BOE reaction remain overshad- second half relative to our expec- “Both the UK and Europe risk a UK-based, but there were no differ- “In” win and betting firms are also restart quantitative easing,” said owed by the greater risks tied to the tations and push the oil market fall into recession in the following ences in answers provided based on pricing that in. One poll published on Azad Zangana, London-based sen- ‘Brexit’ referendum,” said Roberto into a deficit in the third quarter,” quarters due to the increased uncer- geography. Tuesday, however, showed the Leave ior economist at asset management Cobo Garcia, a strategist at Banco the US bank wrote in a note yester- tainty. One has to take into account The sample was the monthly campaign three points ahead. After firm Schroders. Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria in Madrid. day. That would “push prices above that the UK is the second largest econ- panel of forecasters on the British public opinion polls failed to predict a Meanwhile, the pound rose for a “Despite these figures, we continue to $50 near term,” it said. omy in the EU so this is a big deal,” economy, at banks, fund manage- Conservative Party victory in Britain’s third day, reaching the strongest level favor short positions in cable” before At least 15 countries — said Mikel Milhoj at Danske Bank. ment companies and independent 2015 parliamentary election there is a in more than a week versus the dol- the June vote, he said, referring to a including most members of Britain’s economy could be one research firms, who quite often dis- great deal of uncertainty around their lar and euro, after data showed UK bet that Britain’s currency will decline the Organization of Petroleum of the fastest growing among devel- agree with each other. accuracy. inflation accelerated more than econ- against the dollar. Exporting Countries, as well as oped nations, expanding 1.9 percent On Tuesday, the International What’s more certain is inflation omists forecast last month. The pound climbed 0.7 percent to non-members such as Russia — this year and 2.1 percent next, the poll Monetary Fund cut its 2016 growth won’t reach the Bank of England’s 2 Sterling climbed against all but $1.4332 as of 11:28 a.m. London time, have agreed to meet in the Qatari of economists based in the UK and forecast for Britain to 1.9 percent from percent target anytime soon. The lat- one of 16 major peers after the Office extending its gain over the past three capital on the weekend. Brent across Europe found - but that would 2.2 percent and said the country could est Reuters survey suggested it would for National Statistics said annual days to 2 percent. Sterling advanced crude, which sank to a 12-year low be under threat from Brexit, as leav- deal a damaging blow to the fragile be the second half of 2017 at least inflation quickened to a 15-month 0.6 percent to 79.66 pence per euro, in January, has climbed about 30 ing the EU is known. world economy if it votes to leave the before it even gets close. high of 0.5 percent in March, from 0.3 leaving it more than 1.5 percent percent since Saudi Arabia, Rus- “Recessionary in the short-term,” EU. The findings of the latest poll were Low oil prices have meant most percent the month before. The median stronger since April 7. sia, Qatar and Venezuela reached a preliminary agreement to freeze output on February 16. Both a soft output freeze and a hard output freeze, with “some US rejects ‘living will’ plans enforcement mechanism,” would boost prices to above $50 a bar- of most large US banks rel, Bank of America said. Brent traded at $44.20 as of 12:06 p.m. in London. AFP result in higher capital require- Whatever the outcome of the ments and other toughened meeting, the market is rebalancing, standards, such as restrictions on partly due to a drop in US produc- bank operations. tion and rising global demand, the NEW YORK: US regulators rejected The regulators found that the bank said. US oil production stands yesterday the bankruptcy contin- living wills of two other large at 9.01 million barrels a day, down gency plans of five giant US banks banks, Goldman Sachs and Mor- 6.2 percent from the record high of that aim to avoid taxpayer bailouts gan Stanley, also had weaknesses. 9.61 million reached in June last year, if they fail. They were ordered to address the according to the US Department of Both the Federal Reserve and deficiencies, but did not technically Energy. the Federal Deposit Insurance fail the test. Bank of America didn’t Corporation said the “living will” The FDIC found that Goldman’s exclude the possibility of a fail- plans were “not credible” for Bank plans “was not credible or would ure to reach a freeze agreement, of America, Bank of New York Mel- not facilitate and orderly resolu- a scenario that would lead to lon, JPMorgan Chase, State Street tion under bankruptcy,” the FDIC prices dropping below $40 a bar- and Wells Fargo. said. The Federal Reserve came to rel. One risk is that Saudi Arabia The five “too big to fail” banks that same conclusion about Mor- could announce an expansion in were given until October 1 to gan Stanley. production in response to Iran’s improve the plans, which were Regulators also found problems return to the market following the required in the Dodd-Frank reg- in Citigroup’s plan but “they did not end of the sanctions on its nuclear ulations governing systemically believe the shortcomings rose to the The Bank of America building in Los Angeles, California. Five out of eight of the biggest US banks do not agreement in January. In that case, important banks in the wake of the level of the statutory required for a prices could fall as low as $30 a have credible plans for winding down operations during a crisis without the help of public money, federal devastating 2008 financial crisis. joint determination of non-credibil- barrel, the bank said. regulators said yesterday. Failure to pass the test could ity,” the FDIC said. 26 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 BUSINESS

QE INDICES SUMMARY QATAR STOCK EXCHANGE QE Index 10,245.87 0.00 % QE Total Return Index 16,577.13 0.00 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 4,046.84 0.25 % QE All Share Index 2,860.68 0.01 % QE All Share Banks & Financial Services 2,748.5 0.04 % QE All Share Industrials 3,161.62 0.42 % QE All Share Transportation 2,563.49 0.94 % QE All Share Real Estate 2,544.54 0.06 % QE All Share Insurance 4,567.87 0.03 % QE All Share Telecoms 1,156.05 0.11 % QE All Share Consumer Goods & Services 6,744.73 0.29 %

QE MARKET SUMMARY COMPARISON 13-04-2016 Today 12-04-2016 Previous day Index 10,245.87 10,246.29 Change 0.42 86.63 % 0.00 0.85 YTD% 1.76 1.76 Volume 10,770,773 18,734,527 Value (QAR) 438,806,971.85 496,605,285.14 Trades 5,910 7,382 Up 18 | Down 18 | Unchanged 03

WORLD STOCK INDICES Index Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low All Ordinaries 5127.194 73.539 1.46 5379.6 4762.1 Cac 40 Index/D 4456.56 110.65 2.55 4586.11 3892.46 Dj Indu Average 17721.25 164.84 0.94 18351.4 15370.3 Hang Seng Inde/D 21158.71 654.27 3.19 21794.84 18278.8 Iseq Overall/D 6268.59 95.43 1.55 6791.68 5611.89 Karachi 100 In/D 33646.1 29.2 0.09 34154.7 29785 Nikkei 225 Index 16381.22 452.43 2.84 18951.12 14865.77 S&P 500 Index/D 0 0 0 2134.72 1810.1

EXCHANGE RATE Currency Buying Selling US$ QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 UK QR 5.1520 QR 5.2250 INTERNATIONAL MARKETS - A LIST OF SHARES FROM THE WORLD Euro QR 4.0902 QR 4.1482 COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME CA$ QR 2.8164 QR 2.8719 NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED Swiss Fr QR 3.7583 QR 3.8114 Yen QR 0.0330 QR 0.0336 A C C-A/D 1469.9 23.15 21273 Eicher Motor-A/D19896.85 368 3344 Kakatiya Cem-B/D 296.8 14.1 144368 Thirumalai-B/D 212.8 0 7358 Aus$ QR 2.7613 QR 2.8167 Aarti Drugs-B/D 464.4 0.4 2018 Electrosteel-B/D 18.6 0.2 207764 Kalpat Power-B/D 211.6 0.45 9061 Til Ltd.-T/D 396.1 -8.1 17950 Ind Re QR 0.0542 QR 0.0552 Aban Offs-A/D 187.8 3.85 360206 Emco-B/D 27.2 0 19556 Kalyani Stel-T/D 167.1 0.3 39379 Timexgroup-T/D 31.8 -0.2 39314 Ador Welding-B/D 301.6 19 4315 Escorts Fin-B/D 4.18 0 54683 Kanoria Chem-B/D 68.85 -0.15 30212 Tinplate-B/D 71 -0.75 38409 Pak Re QR 0.0345 QR 0.0351 Aegis Logis-B/D 110.55 -0.4 133296 Escorts-A/D 168.35 -1.1 373981 Kg Denim-B/D 91.4 -1.6 22804 Ultramarine-B/D 120.9 1.7 14134 Peso QR 0.0783 QR 0.0798 Alembic-B/D 37.7 -0.1 71814 Eveready Indu-/D 259.8 10.65 17881 Kilburnengg-Xd/D 59.85 -1.3 27559 Unitech P -A/D 5.09 0.07 7651387 SL Re QR 0.0246 QR 0.0253 Alok Indus-A/D 4.8 0.01 1154391 F D C-B/D 186.6 -0.2 4640 Kinetic Eng-B/D 91.95 8.35 27574 Univcable-B/D 80.8 2.8 73505 Taka QR 0.0460 QR 0.0470 Apollo Tyre-A/D 169.45 1.05 184188 Federal Bank-A/D 44.65 0.55 347187 Kopran-B/D 52.3 -0.1 48252 Uppergsugar-T/D 125.2 -5.8 46847 Nep Re QR 0.0339 QR 0.0345 Asahi I Glass-/D 167 4.85 17232 Ferro Alloys-B/D 5.15 0.15 18126 Lakshmi Elec-B/D 370.2 2.5 3324 LONDON Ashok Leyland-/D 110.3 -1.25 1725447 Finolex-A/D 370 7.75 10682 Lgb Broth-B/D 478.2 9.2 1356 SA Rand QR 0.2455 QR 0.2504 Bajaj Hold-A/D 1490.85 33.85 1721 Gail-A/D 367.6 1.05 221857 Lloyd Metal-B/D 32.4 -0.45 74363 Ballarpur In-B/D 16.7 -0.12 194443 Galada Power-B/D 14 -0.46 2100 Lok.Hous&Con-B/D 5.02 0.03 23896 3I Group/D 473.9 14.2 585479 GOLD AND SILVER Bata India-A/D 542.3 7.75 41167 Gammon India-T/D 12.75 0 130090 Lupin-A/D 1543.85 8.15 87924 Assoc.Br.Foods/D 3351 33 146659 Bayer Crop-A/D 3833.25 72.8 1070 Garden P -B/D 23.25 -0.45 6919 Lyka Labs-T/D 87.65 -0.5 69728 Barclays/D 163.35 7.7 27007601 GOLD QR145.8040 per gramme Beml Ltd-A/D 940.85 36.1 103262 Godfrey Phil-B/D 1225.25 19.85 39445 Mah.Seamless-B/D 206.2 26.2 134490 Bp/D 365.1 8.15 18663291 SILVER QR1.8846 per gramme Bh Electronic-/D 1190.65 5.25 36168 Goodricke-B/D 184.9 0.8 26281 Maha Scooter-B/D 1270 43 1641 Brit Am Tobacc/D 4190.5 23 755330 Bhansali Eng-T/D 19.65 0.4 80351 Goodyear I -B/D 521.1 11.1 11104 Mangalam Cem-B/D 240.4 0.1 6360 Bt Group/D 446.4 2.05 4930749 Bharat Bijle-B/D 946.75 -6.25 5603 Hcl Infosys-B/D 46.25 -0.2 406216 Mastek-B/D 150.7 -1.1 47147 Centrica/D 236.7 1.6 5219914 Bharatgears-B/D 72.95 1.8 3686 Him.Fut.Comm-T/D 18.65 -0.25 1480711 Max Financial-/D 353 1.9 20349 Gkn/D 290.3 5.3 2474097 Bhartiya Int-B/D 458 -11 5831 Himat Seide-B/D 193.5 3.25 29819 Mrpl-A/D 67.05 2.85 246936 Hsbc Holdings/D 443.6 23.5 16718383 Bhel-A/D 133.35 6.2 1816714 Hind Motors-T/D 5.33 0.19 203480 Nahar Spg.-B/D 101.75 -0.15 23921 Kingfisher/D 373.9 0.6 1747086 Most Gulf stock Bom.Burmah-B/D 410.05 17.95 51261 Hind Org Chem-/D 16.05 -0.1 7953 Nation Alum -A/D 41.2 2 361590 Land Secs Grou/D 1139 18 600630 Bombay Dyeing-/D 48 0.2 176635 Hind Unilever-/D 895.5 24.8 113133 Navneet Edu-B/D 88.15 5.7 71543 Legal & Genera/D 245.41 7.6 9226596 Camph.& All-B/D 576.5 14.5 3673 Hind.Petrol-A/D 849.85 16.25 80822 Nepc India-T/D 1.58 0.03 13625 Lloyds Bnk Grp/D 69.18 2.55 73993154 markets rise Canfin Homes-B/D1309.75 93.15 14607 Hindalco-A/D 96.3 4.4 2198704 O N G C-A/D 213 2.7 367780 Marks & Sp./D 446.2 8.5 2361781 Caprihans-Xc/D 90 5.5 17552 Hous Dev Fin-A/D 1113.2 23.6 105943 Oil Country-B/D 25.65 1 56719 Next/D 5400 25 287250 Castrol India-/D 380.45 -1.85 61386 I F C I-A/D 24.8 0.6 2420028 Onward Tech-B/D 75 0.4 1985 Pearson/D 827.5 -7.5 1332313 Reuters Century Enka-B/D 188.6 1.7 17720 Idbi-A/D 69.95 0.45 685107 Orchid Pharm-B/D 41.85 -0.1 69003 Prudential/D 1403.5 58.5 2651185 Century Text-A/D 613.85 5.3 184743 India Cement-A/D 93.2 0.05 369263 Orient Hotel-T/D 22.7 0.6 7951 Rank Group/D 246.6 0.6 103621 Chambal Fert-B/D 60.55 0.45 88831 India Glycol-B/D 89.4 -0.75 9350 Orient.Carb.-T/D 486.25 2 1627 Rentokil Initi/D 177.5 -0.5 420457 DUBAI: Middle Eastern stock markets rose yesterday, Chola Invest-A/D 790 -0.65 128375 Indian Hotel-A/D 105.25 1.85 89053 Oudh Sugar-B/D 73.45 -2.6 70776 Rolls Royce Pl/D 668.5 11 1537746 encouraged by an overnight jump in oil prices which Chowgule St-T/D 17.6 0.15 10752 Indo-Tcount-T/D 999.9 1.05 7405 Patspin India-/D 8.88 0.26 4425 Rsa Insrance G/D 478.9 5.9 773206 boosted Saudi Arabian petrochemical shares in partic- Cimmco-B/D 73.2 -0.65 3603 Indusind-A/D 988.2 19.2 96191 Punjab Chem.-B/D 172.5 8.5 11514 Sainsbury(J)/D 287.2 1.4 4857806 ular, and strength in Asian bourses after strong Chinese Cipla-A/D 511.75 8.75 198192 J.B.Chemical-B/D 248.6 -0.6 5316 Radico Khait-B/D 87.9 0.2 38669 Schroders/D 2556 16 222608 trade data. City Union Bk-/D 97.6 2.1 21044 Jagatjit Ind-X/D 83.9 0 67196 Rallis India-A/D 189.95 7 97759 Severn Trent/D 2238 -5 111699 The Saudi index climbed 0.6 percent in the heav- Colgate-A/D 835 13.8 35923 Jagson Phar-B/D 36.2 1 24753 Rallis India-A/D 189.95 7 97759 Smith&Nephew/D 1173 7 415200 iest volume for three weeks. In the petrochemical Container Cor-/D 1268.1 0.75 12673 Jamnaauto-B/D 147.8 0.6 64183 Reliance Indus/D 437.1 -6.3 127451 Smiths Group/D 1112 13 192117 sector, Sipchem jumped 5.5 percent. Yansab, which Dai-Tichi Kar-/D 408 -7.6 2926 Jbf Indu-B/D 206.9 0.5 11056 Ruchi Soya-B/D 29.65 -0.1 31822 Standrd Chart /D 515.8 45.1 11661391 was due to release first-quarter earnings after the Dcm Financia-T/D 0.77 0.03 2500 Jct Ltd-B/D 4.66 -0.05 821771 S Bk Bikaner-B/D 505 4.8 3549 Tate & Lyle/D 585.5 0.5 176848 close, gained 3.5 percent. NCB rose 0.7 percent. It Dcm Shram Ind-/D 123.7 -2.2 4846 Jenson&Nich.-B/D 8.27 0.03 12141 Salora Inter-B/D 47.5 3.5 10911 Tesco/D 185.5 -10.8 45131441 posted a 1 percent rise in profit to SR2.63bn ($702m). Dhampur Sugar-/D 87.6 0.4 145383 Jktyre&Ind-A/D 85.55 1.1 476390 Saur.Cem-B/D 67.1 1.1 133976 Unilever/D 3256 16.5 1268046 Saudi British Bank surged 4.9 percent after posting Dr. Reddy-A/D 3100.6 17.8 40541 Jmc Projects-T/D 225.1 4.3 112172 Sterling Tool-/D 483 5 4627 United Util Gr/D 958.185 -2 334730 a 2.4 percent rise in profit to SR1.14bn. But Bank Aljazira E I H-B/D 107.5 -2.65 39169 Kabra Extr-B/D 94.55 5.9 11261 Tanfac Indust-/D 28 -0.25 1825 Vodafone Group/D 227.15 0.6 12953029 fell 2.1 percent after reporting a 68 percent year-on-year rise in quarterly profit. E.I.D Parry-A/D 230 2.45 90783 Kajaria Cer-A/D 991 25.25 11050 Tanfac Indust-/D 28 -0.25 1825 Whitbread/D 3764 23 219867 Dubai’s index added 0.8 percent to 3,501 points as heavyweight Emaar Properties gained 2.7 percent. The index is technically bullish after closing above its 200- day average on Tuesday for the first time since August. Bourse operator Dubai Financial Market surged 5.5 percent to 1.53 dirhams in its heaviest volume since Global stocks erase 2016 losses on China data October as it broke technical resistance on its March peak of 1.47 dirhams. But Union Properties, the most heavily traded stock, fell Bloomberg a nine-month low. Treasury 10-year percent. The rebound comes after Commodity producers — one of the a tonne, leading industrial met- 1.3 percent after saying its board had approved increasing notes gained for the first time in the gauge plunged into a bear mar- only industry groups up for the year als higher after China, the world’s its capital to Dh7bn ($1.9bn); it did not say how capital four days after a $20bn auction of ket two months ago. — were among the biggest gain- biggest consumer, boosted foreign would be boosted. the securities drew a lower-than- The S&P 500 rose 0.9 percent to ers. The FTSE 100 Index, rich in purchases to an all-time high. Alu- Abu Dhabi rose 1.1 percent largely because of First LONDON: Global equities erased forecast yield. the highest since December 4, adding resource companies, turned pos- minum advanced 1.4 percent and Gulf Bank, which jumped 3.3 percent. Egypt’s index losses for the year, while com- After roiling financial markets to a 1 percent rally on Tuesday even itive for the year. nickel gained 1 percent. Iron ore gained 1.2 percent in modest volume. Global Telecom modities from copper to grains in the first six weeks of the year, as data showed showed retail sales The MSCI Asia Pacific Index closed 2.3 percent higher in China climbed 3.1 percent; Russia’s Interfax news agency quoted surged as an improvement in signs that the slowdown in the Chi- and wholesale prices unexpectedly jumped 1.9 percent to the highest at 419 yuan a tonne, the highest a presentation for an upcoming eurobond issue by its the outlook for China’s economy nese economy may not be as deep slumped last month. close since January 1. The Hang since March 21. parent VimpelCom as saying VimpelCom would use spurred a rally in risk assets. US as some investors expected fueled J P Morgan jumped 4.6 percent Seng China Enterprises Index of Oil declined from a four-month the proceeds of the issue to pay off a shareholder loan stocks climbed to a four-month a recovery in stocks from Asia to after adjusted earnings per share mainland shares listed in Hong peak amid speculation over the to Global Telecom. high as J P Morgan Chase & Co’s America. Speculation the oil mar- of $1.41 beat the $1.25 average esti- Kong jumped 4 percent. The MSCI likely outcome of a meeting by results topped estimates. ket will soon find some enduring mate of 29 analysts surveyed by Emerging Markets Index rose for a major suppliers to discuss freez- HIGHLIGHTS The Standard & Poor’s 500 stability is also helping to prop Bloomberg, as it became the first fifth day, climbing 1.2 percent. Rus- ing output, while US industry data SAUDI ARABIA: The index rose 0.6 percent to 6,442 Index headed for the biggest two- up equities. J P Morgan’s surprise of the big lenders to report this sea- sia’s Micex Index rose 1.5 percent. showed crude stockpiles expanded points. day rally since March 2, while results helped mitigate some con- son. Analysts project first-quarter The Bloomberg Dollar Spot last week. West Texas Interme- EGYPT: The index climbed 1.2 percent to 7,421 points. Brazil’s Ibovespa hit a 10-month cern over what’s projected to be the profits at S&P 500 firms shrank Index, which tracks the greenback diate fell 0.9 percent to $41.78 a DUBAI: The index rose 0.8 percent to 3,501 points. high, European shares rallied worst US earnings season since the 10 percent in the first quarter — versus 10 peers, rose 0.6 percent, barrel and Brent dropped 0.8 per- ABU DHABI: The index gained 1.1 percent to 4,455 points. and Russia’s benchmark closed global financial crisis. including a 20 percent decline at after reaching a nine-month low cent to $44.33. QATAR: The index was flat at 10,246 points. at the highest since 2008. Cop- The MSCI All-Country World banks — compared with earlier on Tuesday. The US currency added Gold fell 0.8 percent to $1,245.35 KUWAIT: The index rose 0.6 percent to 5,306 points. per and iron ore jumped, and haven Index climbed 1.3 percent at 2:11pm estimates that they will stagnate. 0.7 percent to $1.1311 per euro, its an ounce, slipping from the high- OMAN: The index edged up 0.04 percent to 5,731 points. assets including the yen and gold in New York, pushing its gain since The Stoxx Europe 600 Index strongest in two weeks, and gained est level in more than three weeks BAHRAIN: The index edged up 0.1 percent to retreated. The dollar rallied the February 11 to 14 percent and eras- rose 2.5 percent, the most since 0.6 percent to 109.17 yen. as investors assessed the timing of 1,123 points. most in three weeks after falling to ing a slide in 2016 that reached 12 March 11 for a fourth day of gains. Copper rose 1 percent to $4,816 higher borrowing costs in the US. BUSINESS VIEWS THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 27

Cheap oil is China’s steel glut: Years in the blunting drive for making but years to resolve fuel efficiency and hard to quantify, but there are plenty of signs that cheaper By John Kemp fuel prices are reversing or at least Reuters blunting the former trend towards increased fuel efficiency. Fuel economy standards in the United States are improving uel consumption is not very the fuel efficiency of both cars sensitive to a small change and light trucks such as crosso- Fin prices in the short run, but ver utility vehicles. if the price change is large enough However, the fuel economy and lasts long enough the amount regulations specify separate used can change significantly. standards for cars and light trucks The 60 percent decline in oil (stricter standards for cars and prices over the last two years more generous ones for trucks). has now been large enough and Consumers have responded lasted long enough that it is start- to the drop in prices by opting to ing to have a significant impact buy more trucks and fewer cars, on the medium-term outlook for lowering the economy-wide fuel oil demand. savings compared with the origi- Most crude oil is used as a nal projections. The fuel economy transportation fuel in aircraft, regulations assumed consumer ships, trains, trucks and cars, vehicle purchases would split which is where the biggest impact roughly 60:40 between cars and of lower prices on consumption trucks by 2016 but instead the is being felt (“Essentials of petro- split is almost 40:60. leum”, Frankel, 1946). As a result, the fuel economy Between 2004 and 2014, the standards are on track to deliver apparently relentless surge in oil only half to two-thirds of the prices resulted in a sharp focus on anticipated reduction in fuel con- improving fuel efficiency. sumption (“Low gas prices expose Container ships and oil tank- flaw in US fuel economy stand- An employee unloads steel products at a market in Yichang, Hubei Province, China. ers switched to slower speeds to ards”, Forbes, April 11). reduce fuel consumption, a prac- The relaxation of fuel econ- tice known in the industry as omy is evident in the air where “slow steaming”. airlines have been adding more Fuel consumption rises with ultra-long flights and seat utilisa- the third power of speed so even tion has edged down (“Long-haul By David Stanway decision to pull out of Britain, putting 15,000 created ingrained bad habits when it came a relatively modest reduction flights get longer”, Wall Street Reuters jobs at risk. On Monday, more than 40,000 to overcapacity.” in speed results in a big saving Journal, April 10). German steel workers took to the streets to China raised hope of a solution in Feb- on fuel. Slower speeds result in Cheap fuel is also helping protest against dumping from China, among ruary when it pledged to shut 100-150 longer journey times and need stimulate a surge in delivery serv- other issues such as industry consolidation million tonnes of old production capac- more ships to move the same vol- ices and has made possible the hina is facing increasing interna- that they fear will cost them their jobs. ity in five years, but actual production is ume of freight but shipping lines focus on super-fast home deliver- tional pressure to tackle a steel Hillary Clinton, widely expected to be expected to stay high as Beijing tries to were prepared to absorb higher ies being pioneered by Amazon’s supply glut that has flooded glo- the Democrat candidate in US presiden- minimise job losses and social disruption. capital costs in order to save on Prime service. bal markets and left beleaguered tial elections this year, added her voice to New plants have continued to come on the running cost of fuel. Even Delivery services are the fast- overseas producers at risk of the criticism, saying on Monday she would line, and CISA has warned that capacity airlines instructed aircraft to fly est growing part of the freight Cclosure. China produces half the world’s “impose consequences when China breaks would increase further this year. slightly slower to save on fuel. network at the moment and steel but those hoping it will tackle its sur- the rules by dumping its cheap products in “The government is understandably More importantly, airlines cut expected to provide most of the plus capacity quickly will be disappointed, our markets.” very nervous about how exactly they’re weight and fuel consumption by demand growth over the next despite rhetoric from Beijing. Official data shows China’s production going to do this,” said Geoffrey Crothall, reducing the amount of unneces- decade (“DOT releases 30-year A steel production glut that has taken capacity is just over 1.1 billion tonnes a year communications director at China Labour sary fuel, water and other items freight projections”, BT, March 3). years in the making, will equally take years although analysts estimate another 100 mil- Bulletin. “I think eventually pressure will carried on board. Amazon is investing heav- to resolve. The economy is growing at its lion tonnes are produced illegally. build and they will have to go ahead. But In another economy meas- ily in building up its own air slowest pace in 25 years and labour unrest Underlining the scale of problem fac- you really shouldn’t expect it to happen ure, airlines reduced ultra-long freight capacity to meet surging is on the rise, a worry for the ruling Com- ing Beijing, official figures suggest surplus overnight.” non-stop routes, which force air- demand for deliveries within 24 munist Party that fears the social unrest that capacity is some 300-400 million tonnes a CISA’s Liu said existing mills are doing craft to carry more fuel on board to 48 hours (“Amazon’s airfreight millions of laid off steel workers could bring. year and exports in 2015 reached a record little to curb supply, noting they were (fuel weight is a substantial source moves raises hopes in cargo busi- “Closures can not be 110 million tonnes - about 10 times the trapped in a “vicious circle” in which of energy consumption). And on ness”, Wall Street Journal, April 7). completed overnight,” annual steel output of Britain. they ramp up production at the first sign land, trucking firms and logistics The emphasis within the entire said a person with ties to Although the China Iron and Steel Asso- of price improvements. operators focused on optimising transport system is shifting from China’s leadership. “Sta- ciation and some steel executives have Many firms engage in “hostile com- route networks to save on fuel minimising (fuel) cost to max- bility is the top priority.” predicted that exports will fall in 2016, Chi- petition”, raising production and slashing bills while consumers opted for imising speed and convenience. China’s fading eco- nese customs data on Wednesday showed prices in a bid to outlast rivals, he said. smaller and more fuel-efficient Trucking companies are increasing nomic growth has shipments soared 30 percent in March from Government policy initiatives have vehicles. competing to offer faster delivery exposed the huge sur- the same month a year ago. not always helped either. One target to The entire transportation sys- service to customers willing to pay plus capacity in steel Much of China’s production glut was consolidate 60 percent of capacity in the tem became significantly more a premium (“Trucking company’s making, leaving many sparked by the country’s debt-fuelled stim- hands of the 10 biggest steel enterprises efficient, which is a major rea- new sales pitch: speed”, Wall Street China’s fading producers with heavy ulus in 2009, when a government-directed 4 helped spur a fevered round of expansions son fuel consumption consistently Journal, April 11). economic growth has losses that are adding trillion yuan ($625 billion) was injected into at mid-sized mills desperate to avoid being declined in the advanced econ- The emphasis on speed at the to already high debts. the economy to ward off the global finan- swallowed up. omies between 2005 and 2014. expense of efficiency is even evi- exposed the huge Many see the solution in cial crisis. Premier Li Keqiang reiterated on Mon- But now the cost of fuel has fallen dent in the growth of rail services surplus capacity in exports, which rose to a The stimulus drove up steel demand by day Beijing intended to quicken steps to sharply and seems set to remain between Asia and Europe seek- steel making, leaving record in 2015, a major as much as 100 million tonnes in 2009 and tackle the surplus production. low for the next several years, ing to win volume from maritime factor dragging global encouraged producers to embark on a rapid But the central government faces the focus has shifted from fuel routes (“China-Europe con- many producers with prices down to decade capacity expansion using cheap credit. strong resistance from many local gov- efficiency to speed, power and tainerised rail shipments gain heavy losses that are lows. “The steel mills were delighted - they ernments. Dozens of “zombie” mills cling convenience. momentum”, Journal of Com- India’s Tata Steel has didn’t need to die, breathed a sigh of relief to life thanks to the support of local gov- The impact remains patchy merce, 2015). adding to already high blamed a flood of cheap and also relaxed their vigilance towards ernments terrified by the prospect of mass debts. steel imports, includ- overcapacity,” said Liu Zhenjiang, the vice unemployment and carrying the steel ing from China, for a secretary-general of the CISA. “Those years firms’ spiralling debts. Investors wonder if Ukrainian privatisation will ever materialise

By Alessandra Prentice last year involved sales of just $7m, according suggested “privatisation wasn’t going to hap- Centrenergo and the delays were putting Reuters to data from the State Property Fund. pen - that they weren’t going to do it. them off. Brian Best, a managing director at Dragon But then the prime minister said they “What is in doubt is whether this invest- Capital, the largest investment bank in were going to do it, so it was mixed signals, ment, these funds, will be around for much oreign investors are waiting impatiently Ukraine and minority owned by Goldman mixed negative signals,” he said. longer. They’re saying - ‘where’s something for a new Ukrainian government to Sachs, said potential buyers might soon walk A spokeswoman for the Energy Ministry tangible?’ Nobody believes the press confer- Fkick-start privatisation. They are far away. disputed that account, saying the ministry ences, people have a hard time taking the from sure it will. Investors are “definitely in a wait-and- had always supported privatisation and none words at face value anymore. We’re yet to get Parliament is expected to vote on a see mode, but they won’t wait forever. They of the meetings between ministry represent- a clear picture,” Favorov told Reuters. cabinet line-up this week following Prime have capital to deploy and that capital will atives and investors had reflected a different He said ERU hoped to invest Minister Arseniy Yatseniuk’s resignation on seek markets that are easier to invest in than attitude. $200m-$300m over the next 2-3 years: “this Sunday after months of political infighting in Ukraine if something isn’t done in the near “The consistent position of the ministry is what we do - we buy beat-up old Soviet a country already destabilised by pro-Rus- future,” Best said. has been maximum cooperation on the sale assets and whip them into shape, but the dis- sian separatism. He cites the example of Dragon Capi- to create competitive conditions on the ther- connect between the public statements on Lawmakers said technocrat Finance Min- tal’s involvement as advisor to a Western mal generation market,” she said in emailed privatisation and the actual tangible steps is ister Natalia Yaresko was likely to be dropped; consortium interested in buying Ukraine’s comments. apparent and pronounced. That’s why we’re But a privatisation plan Economy Minister Aivaras Abromavicious, second-largest thermal energy company The ministry also referred Reuters to acutely following what’s going on.” a key driver for privatisation, had already Centrenergo. Energy Minister Volodymyr Demchyshyn’s The biggest 100 of Ukraine’s over 3,000 the government predicted resigned over what he said was meddling by The sale has been repeatedly pushed expressed commitment to the sale of Cen- state companies posted a combined loss of would raise $778m for vested interests. back: from end-2015, to the end of the first trenergo, which the State Property Fund 117bn hryvnia ($4.6bn) in 2014, an economy The pro-Western authorities who came to quarter of 2016 and beyond. The consortium has indicated may be ready by the end of ministry report said. the budget last year power in 2014 after a Moscow-backed pres- lost patience and gave up on the purchase last November. Centrenergo, which runs three power involved sales of just $7m, ident fled protests against his rule pledged year, Best said, declining to name the com- Andrew Favorov, managing partner of plants built in the 1960’s-70’s, posted a 60 to sell off state firms they said were crippled panies involved. energy project development firm Energy percent year-on-year fall in earnings that according to data from by graft. Best said energy ministry representatives Resources of Ukraine (ERU), says it took a year. A government report last September the State Property Fund. But a privatisation plan the government had discussed “highly inflated” prices in pri- year of visits to Europe and the United States said it topped the near-term privatisation list predicted would raise $778m for the budget vate meetings with the consortium and also to persuade investment funds to consider due to its “urgent funding needs”. 28 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 BUSINESS

BACK TO BUSINESS sight China’s ‘moonlight’ generation puts When will Goldman Sachs hit elusive tomorrow’s growth on credit debt-trade jackpot?

By Sue-Lin Wong comment for this story, while JD.com By Lisa Abramowicz but related. Banks that manage and Adam Jourdan said it used big data to target con- and Rani Molla more bond sales are also typ- Reuters sumers who have the ability to repay Bloomberg ically involved in more of the money quickly. trading around newly issued The Chinese still spend and bor- notes. And yields on riskier row only about half the levels of US debt have risen. That all sounds HINA’S hopes that con- consumers relative to GDP, and the OLDMAN Sachs is pretty good. So why was the sumer spending can most recent World Bank figures show patiently waiting for a start of this year probably such become its new growth it is still the world’s third-most pro- time when debt trad- a bummer for Goldman? engine have taken a few lific nation of savers, but things are ing becomes more Here are some ideas of what dents in 2016, but a new changing fast. Gprofitable again. But it’s unclear could’ve been better: generation of over- Consumer borrowing hit nearly when and if the perfect fixed- 1) Benchmark rates could be Cspenders might give the economy a 20 trillion yuan in February, a three- income conditions will ever higher. After more than seven shot in the arm, even as they stretch fold rise since 2010, and household arrive, or what they’ll look like. years of ultra-low-rate poli- their own resources to breaking point. debt relative to the economy has dou- The New York bank keeps cies, developed-market yields A young, middle-class and tech- bled since 2008 to nearly 40 percent. reiterating its commitment to around the world are near all- savvy cohort dubbed the ‘moonlight Such rapid growth in a system fixed income despite the unit’s time lows and investors are generation’ — because their banks where regulation is lax might pose steadily declining revenue and growing accustomed to central- accounts are light at the end of the risks that credit quality will suffer. new regulations that crimp bank intervention. This has led month — are turning their backs on Officials have already vowed to crack potential debt profits. Its top exec- to low profit margins for traders. the cautious ways of their hard-sav- down on unregulated lending into the utives noted that “cycles do turn, 2) Many firms, including ing parents and embracing credit. property market, for example, which even if the timing of such inflec- Goldman, are hoping that smaller That is welcome news to Beijing is raising household debt and the risk tions may be difficult to predict,” competitors die out or shrink, policymakers, who last month urged of a property bubble. according to their annual letter leaving them with an even big- lenders to open the taps for shoppers The China Banking Regulatory to shareholders. The bankers ger market share. This is already after economic growth slipped to its Commission, which is responsible for are perhaps are being defensive happening to some extent. slowest pace in 25 years, retailers financial regulation, did not return ahead of the banks’ first-quarter 3) Banks could be on the reported signs of stress and bloated requests for comment on potential earnings report on April 19, which winning side of this volatility industries prepared for a wave of Pang Yu, a 25-year-old railway ticket inspector in Beijing, shows her risks. The levels of consumer debt still probably won’t be great in large for a change, positioning their redundancies. phone operating Ant Check, an Alibaba-linked platform, at a cafe in pale in comparison with total debt in part because of debt-trading rev- books perfectly without incur- It’s also good news for Simon Beijing, China. the economy, which hit 250 percent enue that could be as much as 59 ring too much risk. But this Loong, founder and chief executive of GDP in 2015, dominated by gov- percent lower according to some balance is getting more diffi- of online lending platform WeLab, Relative to income levels, house- her income of around 6,000 yuan. ernment and corporate debt. analyst forecasts. cult to achieve as banks have a which he said has 3.2 million users in hold debt has already reached nearly A widening array of funding Economists say China’s high sav- Here’s the paradox: Gold- smaller hand to play with under China. “The consumption behaviour 60 percent, up from 35 percent in options are available to young shop- ings rate — around 46 percent of GDP man Sachs is doing quite well in new regulations. of millennials is quite different; they 2007, according to the Institute of pers like Tian — traditional credit last year, according to the central debt according to a number of Maybe Goldman will more are looking for instant gratifica- International Finance. cards, peer-to-peer loans and credit bank governor — acts as a natural different measures. It’s winning surprise everyone with bet- tion,” he said, adding that longer-term Tian Xue, 27, who works at a platforms offered by e-commerce buffer to systemic shocks from con- a bigger share of the US fixed- ter-than-expected revenues, financial planning took a back seat. state-owned firm in Shanghai and companies such as Alibaba Group sumer credit. Which is an indirect income business, which is the just as JPMorgan did. Or maybe Policymakers are trying to deepen considers herself part of the moon- Holding Ltd and JD.com Inc. “When way of saying that the moonlight gen- biggest and historically most there’s no other choice but for the level of access to credit similar to light demographic, can see problems I use (Alibaba’s) Taobao, it just pops eration’s long-suffering parents will lucrative market, according to Goldman executives to say what took place in the United States building up for some of her peers. “I up, telling me that I can pay with Ant probably bail them out when things investor surveys by Greenwich they’re devoted to maintaining a 100 years ago, said China-focused think a lot of people end up spending Check Later,” said Pang Yu, a 25-year- go wrong, as they did for 26-year-old Associates. It has made par- robust debt business even as the investment strategist Andy Rothman, more than they can really afford, just old railway ticket inspector in Beijing. Ms Gong, a car saleswoman in Beijing. ticular inroads in the nation’s firm’s peers predict lower over- referring to a US credit-driven con- without thinking about it,” she said. She uses the Alibaba-linked plat- She couldn’t pay back the 20,000 interest-rates and government all fixed-income profits in the sumption boom in the 1900s. Tian, who lives with her parents, form, which allows shoppers to pay yuan she ran up on plastic last year bonds market, where it is now years to come. They’ve already “These things are great, but need keeps her money online in digital for purchases the following month, to fund what she called “a necessary the leader, the surveys show. gone down this path. They have to be done in a careful and deliberate “wallets”, which typically have sister along with her credit cards, to run up expenditure” — cosmetic surgery on Next, take a look at the to seem committed to it, even if way, because we’ve seen in the U.S. platforms offering credit. She said she sometimes as much as 20,000 yuan her nose - so mum and dad stepped bond-underwriting business, they’re thinking about quietly if you don’t do that then these things often spends around 20-30,000 yuan a month in debt, more than she and in. She has no regrets. “It was all which is separate from trading backing away. can be abused and create problems.” ($3,100-4,600) in a month, well above her partner earn. Alibaba declined to worth it, and I look great.”

Startup tech stocks may be overvalued, but so are public Capital equities, so are houses, so are government bonds. Silicon Peter Thiel, Valley is quite far from it. If the bubble is in cash, illiquid The venture capitalist Comment startup investments may be a place to hide. who co-founded PayPal

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Qatar Stars League Fixtures Battle for second place hots up in QSL Round 26 ( last round matches) April 15 Al Kharaitiyat vs Umm Salal, defensive line a lot,” added the 6.15pm Al Khor Club QSL LAST ROUND ACTION sixty-nine-year-old. Sabri Lamouchi (left), coach of El Jaish and Lekhwiya vs Mesaimeer, Al Sadd need a win ON FRIDAY AND SATURDAY El Jaish are currently in second midfielder Sardor Rashidov pose for a picture 6.15pm Lekhwiya Club while El Jaish require place but only one-point clear of their after a press conference in Doha yesterday. Al Sadd vs El Jaish, just a draw to finish third placed rivals. They will want to 6.15pm Qatar Sports Club Jaish know they must not lose tomor- win the match in order to secure sec- Al Wakrah vs Qatar SC, second in the Qatar row at Qatar Sports Club Stadium. ond position at the end of the season. 6.15pm Al Wakrah Stadium Stars League Ferreira said Al Sadd is aiming Sabri Lamouchi, the head coach Al Gharafa vs Al Khor, 6.15pm, for the win tomorrow. of the Soldiers is keen on getting the Al Ahli Stadium “The match is for the second posi- three points in the last game of the April 16 tion in the league. Our target is for the season. Al Arabi vs Al Sailiya, 6.15pm, second position and El Jaish are also “This game is the last game of Al Ahli Stadium The Peninsula aiming for that. But we will seek the the league. If we don’t lose we will Al Ahli vs Al Rayyan, 8.30pm, Al win no matter what.” be in second place. Al Sadd we know Gharafa Stadium Ferreira’s men may face El Jaish is the biggest club in Qatar, big his- in the upcoming Qatar Cup but the tory and big support. We will go into DOHA: Jesualdo Ferreira’s Al Sadd coach insists they will be different this match hoping to win.” QSL Standings will be hoping to finish the 2015- games altogether. “For us the season is not finished. P W L D GF GA Pts 16 campaign on a high by securing “The game will be preparation for Our target was to qualify for AFC the second spot in the Qatar Stars the Qatar cup. Each game is a differ- Champions League and get second Al Rayyan 25 20 3 2 67 20 62 League (QSL) standings but for that ent situation this in the league and place. We have two more cups after El Jaish 25 14 6 5 46 27 47 to happen, the Doha giants must beat that’s in the cup.” He also added that, this, so for us our season starts now,” Al Sadd 25 13 5 7 52 36 46 El Jaish in the final round later this “I think El Jaish will play with their said the Frenchman at the press con- Lekhwiya 25 13 10 2 58 40 41 week. best players because they will want ference on Wednesday. Al Sadd, who have posted three to win both games.” Apart from the team’s targets Umm Salal 25 9 5 11 36 32 38 wins against one draw in their last “We had some big mistakes in the El Jaish also have a top contender Al Arabi 25 10 10 5 32 35 35 four matches, take on El Jaish - one last match and we will work on our for the golden boot in Abdelrazzak Al Ahli 25 9 9 7 39 38 34 of the most consistent sides in QSL defense in the next game,” added the Hamdallah. Al Gharafa 25 9 9 7 33 36 34 - with aims of finishing the season Portuguese tactician. “The club wants to help Ham- AlSailiya 25 10 12 3 38 45 33 behind champions Al Rayyan. Pedro Miguel and Morteza Poura- dallah get the golden boot. When he Second-placed El Jaish, coached liganji are doubtful for the next game, plays around the box he is a killer and Al Khor 25 8 11 6 24 31 30 by Sabri Lamouchi, have 47 points “Pedro got injured in the last has 20 goals this season. And if he Al Wakrah 25 9 14 2 33 44 29 from 25 matches, whereas, Al Sadd - game and Morteza Pouraliganji as gets the golden boot it will be good Al Kharaitiyat 25 7 12 6 36 44 27 who finished second last season - are well. Both players are very impor- for him and good for the team as he Qatar S.C 25 6 11 8 30 50 26 in third spot with a tally of 46 points. tant for me and when they came will have more confidence to score,” A draw won’t help Al Sadd but El to Al Sadd they improved the added Lamouchi. Mesaimeer 25 1 21 3 14 60 6 Al Kharaitiyat need victory to avoid the drop

The Peninsula are only one-point clear of Qatar SC. repair things after this last game.” I hope it is. Umm Salal will want to Umm Salal is 5th and Al Wakrah is A win against Umm Salal will “The good thing about the game is go up in the table and for sure they 11th so to be 5th is a big achievement confirm the Thunders will stay in that we know exactly what we need. will not go down. They are a serious in this league.” the Qatar Stars League next season. If we want to decide our situation team and they have played very well Kharatiyat’s position could be DOHA: Al Kharaitiyat will need a win Amar Osim (pictured), coach of this time we know that if we win we all season long.” affected by the result of other matches against Umm Salal at Al Khor Stadium Kharaitiyat, is hoping that his team are ok. In this context the situation is Kharaitiyat defeated Al Wakrah but their coach is not concerned about tomorrow if they are to avoid relega- can step up and rise for the challenge, clearer,” added the Bosnian tactician. last week but Osim believes that Umm that, “I don’t want to talk about the tion from Qatar Stars League. “We hope we are ready for this chal- Speaking about the upcoming Salal is much stronger opposition. other games I just want to focus on Kharaitiyat are twelfth and dan- lenge. We are working on it and we match Umm Salal, Osim added, “I “Umm Salal is a very difficult our match. We are all motivated to gerously close to the drop zone as they know that there is no possibility to don’t think this is an easier match. team even more than Al Wakrah. win,” added the 48-year-old. Sealine Rally: Qatar’s Abdullah aims for second successive win

The Peninsula gruelling five-day off-road challenge success belying the Qatari’s lack of that passes over some of the wildest experience in rallying as a car driver and most demanding terrain in the – he normally races quads or works country. as a navigator in special stage rallies. DOHA: Nissans dominate the entry Adel Hussein Abdullah returned to “Last weekend was superb for us list for the Sealine Cross-Country Qatar in triumphant mood last week- and now it’s time to repeat that win Rally, round three of the FIA World end after clinching victory in the T2 with the Nissan on home ground,” Cup for Cross-Country Rallies, which category for Series Production Cross- said Adel Hussein, who also has the takes place across the State of Qatar Country Vehicles at the Abu Dhabi early lead in the FIA T2 championship from April 17 to 22. Desert Challenge. standings after two rounds. The Japanese manufacturer will Adel and Egyptian navigator Running with support from Nis- be represented by a staggering 15 Hakam Mohamed Rabeia delivered san Middle East and Al Masaood Nissan Patrol derivatives – one third a superb performance in their Nis- Automobiles, Abu Dhabi-based Leb- of the entire 45-car entry – for the san Patrol to finish 13th overall, the anese Emil Khneisser will be hoping for better luck on this occasion with 2016 Sealine Cross-Country Rally – Nissan entries Russian navigator Alexei Kuzmich. Khneisser was running inside the 208. Khalid Al-Feraihi (SAU)/Abdulhaleem Al-Busaidi (OMN) Nissan Patrol top three at the start of the event in 212. Ibrahim Al-Muhanna (SAU)/Osama Al-Sanad (SAU) Nissan Patrol Abu Dhabi last week, but a niggling 214. Hamed Al-Thani (QAT)/TBA Nissan Patrol engine sensor issue cost him valua- 217. Adel Hussein Abdullah (QAT)/Hakam Mohamed Rabeia (EGY) Nissan Patrol (T2) ble time and crucial championship points. Khneisser finished second Qatar’s Adel Hussein celebrates last week’s T2 win in his Nissan Patrol. He will be hoping to repeat that 219. Emil Khneisser (LEB)/Alexei Kuzmich (RUS) Nissan Patrol (T2) in last year’s T2 Championship and 221. Ahmed Al-Shegawi (SAU)/Arif Yousef Mohammed (ARE) Nissan Patrol (T2) knows that a podium finish is needed feat at next week’s Sealine Rally. 223. Mohammed Al-Rashid (QAT)/TBA Nissan Patrol (T2) in Qatar next week. 231. Ahmed Al-Shegawi (SAU)/Waleed Al-Fouam (SAU) Nissan Patrol The T2 category is well supported T2 entrants. Saudi Arabia’s Khalid Al Other T1 Nissan entrants include Berton and Antonia de Roissard crew 239. Tariq Al-Rammah (SAU)/Turki Al-Rammah (SAU) Nissan Patrol (T2) in Qatar. Among those quite capable Feraihi earned a superb 10th overall Sheikh Hamed bid Eid Al Thani, the the first of three Nissan Patrols. Kiwi of springing a surprise are the Saudi at last weekend’s Abu Dhabi Desert 1993 FIA Middle East rally champion, Emma Gilmour teams up with Lisette 240. Rajeh Al-Shammeri (SAU)/TBA Nissan Patrol (T2) Arabian trio of Ahmed Al Shegawi, Challenge in his T1 Nissan Patrol with former Ha’il Rally winner Ibrahim Al- Bakker in the second car and Spain’s 242. Salem Al-Dhafiri (KWT)/Fares Al-Thafiri (KWT) Nissan Patrol (T2) Rajeh Al Shammeri and Tariq Al Ram- Omani navigator Abdulhaleem Al Muhanna and three all-female prize Cristina Gutierrez lines up with South 243. Edith Weiss (DEU)/Ron Gainley (USA) Nissan Patrol (T2) mah, Qatar’s Mohammed Al Rashid Busaidi. He is quite capable of push- drive pairings entered in a joint ven- Africa’s Sandra Labuscagne in the 244. Charlotte Berton (FRA)/Antonia de Roissard (FRA) Nissan Patrol and Kuwait’s Salem Al Dhafiri. Ger- ing for the top 10 in Qatar as well, ture between the Qatar Motor and third Nissan. 245. Emma Gilmour (NZL)/Lisette Bakker (AHO) Nissan Patrol many’s Edith Weiss teams up with although the difficulty of the navi- Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and The event gets underway from the experienced American navigator gation will put far more pressure on FIA Women in Motorsport. the Losail International Circuit on 246. Cristina Gutierrez (ESP)/Sandra Labuscagne (RSA) Nissan Patrol Ron Gainley to round off the Nissan his co-driver on this occasion. The French duo of Charlotte April 18. 30 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 SPORT Ronaldo fires Real Madrid into semis

“He is showing what he is, which Portuguese striker Spanish giants is the best player in the world,” said the Frenchman. silences big game overturn first-leg 2-0 “Cristiano needs the whole team, I deficit to qualify for want to speak about the team because they achieved this together. critics in victory the last four stage “But he is special because not of the Champions everyone is capable of scoring three over Wolfsburg goals.” League Wolfsburg boss Dieter Hecking was left to rue his side’s inability to AFP defend from set-pieces and lack of a killer away goal. AFP “We should have defended better. To go to the next stage, we needed a goal,” he said. MADRID: “Goals are in my “Two of the three goals were from DNA,” concluded Cristiano MADRID: Cristiano Ronaldo inspired dead balls and so that tells you that Ronaldo after spearheading a Real Madrid to a record sixth succes- we didn’t defend right.” famous Real Madrid comeback sive Champions League semi-final Madrid hadn’t overturned a first- with a hat-trick to see off Wolfs- with a hat-trick as the Spanish giants leg deficit in the Champions League burg and reach the Champions overturned a 2-0 first leg deficit, in eight attempts stretching back 14 League semi-finals for a record beating Wolfsburg 3-0 on Tuesday. years to when Zidane played for Los sixth straight season. Ronaldo struck twice in just over Blancos in a quarter-final win over The three-time World Player a minute to bring Madrid level in the Bayern Munich. of the Year’s self-appraisals are tie inside 17 minutes. However, they roared back into Portuguese defender Pepe celebrates the goal of team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo during the Champions League rarely humble. Yet, the 10-time winners were the tie and were level as Ronaldo quarter-final second leg match against Wolfsburg at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid on April 12. It is just six weeks since he forced to wait until 13 minutes from struck twice in 86 seconds. called out his teammates for time to find the winner when Ron- Dani Carvajal replaced the much- not matching his standards in a aldo’s dipping free-kick escaped the criticised Danilo in Madrid’s only Wolfsburg’s disastrous start was again at the start of the second half Benaglio to seal his 37th hat-trick for 1-0 defeat to local rivals Atletico clutches of Diego Benaglio to find the change from the first leg at right- compounded when star midfielder as Ronaldo saw a free-kick deflected Madrid and 16th Champions League Madrid. bottom corner. back and the Spanish international’s Julian Draxler limped off injured to wide before Benaglio was forced into goal of the season. Yet, it was hard to argue with “Cristiano deserved a magic deflected cross fell perfectly for Ron- be replaced by Max Kruse just after a save to prevent Josuha Guilavogui The 31-year-old is now just one Ronaldo’s logic as he snapped night,” said Madrid captain Sergio aldo to tap home the opener at the the half-hour mark. turning a cross into his own net. away from equalling his single-sea- back at critics that his barrel load Ramos. back post. Yet, the Germans still managed to The hosts were convinced they son record of 17 goals in 2013/14. of goals haven’t come when Real “We need him, he gives every- The two nearly combined for the grow into the game as the opening 45 had gone ahead for the first time in The Swiss ‘keeper then kept have needed them most. thing for the shirt. For a long time he second straight from the restart as minutes wore on. the tie when Ramos’s header came off Wolfsburg in the tie with brilliant On the night coach Zined- has shown he is the number one and another dangerous Carvajal effort Luis Gustavo’s fierce long-range the inside of the post and rolled along saves from Karim Benzema and Jese ine Zidane’s admitted Madrid’s when he is on form you notice.” was just cut out before Ronaldo could effort forced Keylor Navas into a the goal line, but Hungarian referee Rodriguez to set up a grandstand season was “on the line”, Ronal- Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane head home. decent save before Bruno Henrique Viktor Kassai adjudged the ball hadn’t finish. do’s treble overturned a 2-0 first hailed his side’s collective effort, but However, there was no stopping squandered a huge chance to net the crossed the line. But Madrid’s experience told in leg deficit in a 3-0 win over the reserved special praise for Ronaldo the three-time World Player of the vital away goal as he hesitated in get- Ronaldo finally struck the deci- the dying stages as they comfortably Germans. who became the first player to score Year from the resulting corner as his ting his shot off and Marcelo got back sive blow when his free-kick from saw the game out to match Barce- “Considering this has been three hat-tricks in the competition in downward header found the bottom to block the ball behind. 25 yards skidded off the wet turf lona’s record run of six semi-finals a bad season for me it has not one season. corner of the net. Madrid started on the front foot and beyond the despairing dive of between 2008 and 2013. been that bad,” he added after taking his tally for the season in all competitions to 46. “People can criticise me, but I Champions League just keep on going and the num- bers are there for all to see.” Results The numbers are indeed Paris: Champions League quarter- spectacular. Ronaldo has now final, second leg results on Tuesday: scored at least 45 goals in his last six seasons for Madrid. At Manchester, England Three more against Wolfs- Man City (ENG) 1 (De Bruyne 76) Paris burg on Tuesday made him the Saint-Germain (FRA) 0 first player ever to score three hat-tricks in the same Champi- Man City win 3-2 on aggregate ons League season. At Madrid And he is now just one goal away from matching his own Real Madrid (ESP) 3 (Ronaldo 16, 17, record of 17 in a Champions 77) Wolfsburg (GER) 0 League season when Madrid Real Madrid win 3-2 on aggregate ended a 12-year wait to win their 10th European Cup two years ago. There was no holding back Italy add Finland in the Madrid press’ displays of affection for Ronaldo on yester- day’s front pages. to pre-Euro 2016 “How great you are,” ran sports daily Marca. friendly menu Meanwhile, AS led with “how am I not going to love you,” alongside a picture of Ronaldo AFP celebrating his third. “Little-by-little you are val- uing me,” Ronaldo responded MILAN: Italy will play Finland when asked why despite 359 in a last-minute friendly before goals in just 342 games to this summer’s Euro 2016, the streak ahead as the top scorer in Italian football federation (FIGC) Madrid’s history, he still isn’t uni- announced yesterday. versally loved in a season where Real Madrid’s Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo (right) chats with his coach, French Zinedine Zidane during the UEFA Champions League Italy, trounced 4-0 by Spain he has even been whistled by his the final four years ago, travel to quarter-final second leg match against Wolfsburg played at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid, Spain on Tuesday. own fans. France this summer looking for “I am used to criticism. In big improvements after limping Spain it is like this and it doesn’t out of the 2014 World Cup at the affect me. first round for the second succes- “I am still young, but these sive edition. things don’t affect me at 31.” The Azzurri, led by future Zidane passes biggest test yet Having moved the wrong Chelsea manager Antonio Conte, side of 30 there has been plenty recently held 2010 world cham- of speculation that Madrid may pions Spain to a 1-1 draw in Udine consider cashing in on their big- only to suffer a 4-1 thumping at the Reuters go mad because all sorts of things and it won’t happen as a coach either games out of 33 this season and a gest asset before his valuation hands of current world champions happen in football.” after a night like this, I know how dif- club spokesman said yesterday: plummets towards the end of Germany in Munich four days later. Zidane attracted criticism for ficult this job is,” said Zidane, who has “The club will not be holding its his contract in 2018. Italy, who will face Belgium, starting Danilo rather than Dani repeatedly talked about the expec- annual Player of the Year Awards at Yet, for those still in need of the Republic of Ireland and Swe- MADRID: Zinedine Zidane overcame Carvajal in the first leg in Ger- tations on a Madrid manager since the conclusion of this season. In the reminding, Ronaldo left another den in Group E, will face Scotland the biggest challenge of his fledg- many and for his decision to take succeeding Rafa Benitez in January. current circumstances, we are sure indelible night for his legacy with in a friendly in Malta on May 29. ling coaching career as Real Madrid off Luka Modric, saying: “I had to do The coach did not shy away our supporters will understand.” a new first as Madrid overturned Two days later, on May 31, brushed aside VfL Wolfsburg to over- something”. from suggestions that Ronaldo had Villa have lost their last eight a first leg deficit in the Champi- Conte will confirm his 23-man turn a first-leg deficit and reach the In the second leg, Zidane rein- saved his reputation, and possi- games and former manager Remi ons League for the first time in Euro 2016 squad to European foot- Champions League semi-finals. stated the Spaniard at right back and bly his job. Garde left last month, with Eric Black 12 years. ball’s ruling body UEFA. Last week’s surprise 2-0 defeat the decision had an instant impact, “He is the best player in the world currently in caretaker charge. “Cristiano deserved a magic A week before their open- at Wolfsburg left the Frenchman fac- with Carvajal showing desire to beat and nights like tonight make him a Last weekend’s 2-1 loss at home to night,” said Madrid captain Ser- ing match of Euro 2016, away to ing the prospect of becoming the first Julian Draxler to the ball in midfield special player,” said Zidane. “He Bournemouth sent Villa to the brink gio Ramos. Belgium in Lyon, Italy will host Madrid coach since Manuel Pellegrini and then setting up Ronaldo’s opener. makes the difference.” of dropping down into the second-tier “He showed what he is, which Finland at the Marcantonio Ben- in 2010 to fail to reach the last four of “We are a team and I always have Meanwhile, Aston Villa have Championship. Villa, whose US-based is the best player in the world,” tegodi stadium. the competition. to make decisions, we all win together decided to scrap their player of owner Randy Lerner has been trying added Zidane. The return to the venue, the Tuesday’s hat-trick from a but it’s true that Carvajal was enor- the season awards for the 2015/16 to sell the club, have been ever- The debate over whether home of Serie A club Verona, resurgent Cristiano Ronaldo at the mous today,” said Zidane. campaign, with the club on the present in the Premier League since Ronaldo or Barcelona rival comes 27 years after Italy were Bernabeu saved him from that fate. The Frenchman vowed not to cusp of relegation from the Pre- its creation in 1992 and the former Lionel Messi deserves the title held 1-1 by Uruguay in an April, “I’ve lived football as a player, I get ahead of himself after the win, mier League. European champions were last rele- of the world’s best has raged for 1989 friendly. know what it is like. I am now living which was the first time Madrid had The Birmingham club, bottom of gated from the top flight in 1987. a decade. In previous games against Fin- it as a coach, which is much more dif- overturned a first-leg deficit in the the table and 15 points adrift of safety, Former Manchester United boss But despite his critics, and land, Italy have come out largely ficult,” admitted Zidane after the 3-2 Champions League since 2002 when will be relegated on Saturday if Nor- David Moyes, Nigel Pearson, previ- the presence of Gareth Bale and on top, claiming 10 wins, one draw aggregate win. a team containing Zidane saw off wich avoid defeat against Sunderland ously with Leicester, and Garry Monk, Karim Benzema, Ronaldo left and losing just once, although that “I can’t worry about what might Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals or if they themselves lose at Manches- who was at Swansea, have all been no doubt he remains Madrid’s defeat came at the 1912 Olympic happen. We have to be calm when this on their way to lifting the trophy. ter United. Villa, currently without a linked with the managerial vacancy number one and will be badly Games. (losing a first leg) happens; you can’t “I never got a big head as a player manager, have won just three league at Villa Park. missed once he is gone. SPORT THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 31

Defeat could spell end of De Bruyne sinks PSG as road for Ibra generation Man City reach last four AFP PARIS: Defeat by Manchester City in the Champions League could mean enough,” said Blanc. the exit of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and The burst of sky-blue tickertape his exalted generation at Paris Saint- Midfielder scores the that greeted the teams as they entered Germain. winner after Aguero the pitch illustrated the importance of Qatar Sports Investments have misses penalty as the occasion to both clubs, while PSG’s spent heavily at the French club to shape at kick-off confirmed pre-match win the Champions League. Under City progress 3-2 on reports that they would be set out in an Laurent Blanc they have won four aggregate untested 3-4-1-2 system. straight French titles but now have With Angel di Maria operating in become the first team to lose in four a free role, PSG had plenty of options straight Champions League quar- in midfield and they made an assured ter finals. “We are very disappointed but start, City goalkeeper Joe Hart forced “We are very disappointed with we will have to get over it.” AFP to make a finger-tip save from a zing- the result,” said a visibly drained Blanc was in the firing line after ing Ibrahimovic free-kick. Paris President Nasser Al Khelaifi abandoning his usual 4-3-3 for- But as City began to probe, so they (pictured) in a warning after the mation to play with three central exposed fissures in PSG’s new-look 1-0 defeat at Manchester on Tuesday defenders for the first half against MANCHESTER: Manchester City defence and after Aguero had twice shot which saw a 3-2 aggregate defeat. City. reached the Champions League semi- wide, a loose pass from auxiliary right- “It’s the fourth time we reach the It was a gamble that backfired finals for the first time after Kevin De sided centre-back Serge Aurier allowed quarter-finals and are eliminated. and one that followed a disappoint- Bruyne’s fine 76th-minute goal earned Fernandinho to set Aguero clear. Now we have to take a step back and ing performance in the first leg at the them a 1-0 win over Paris Saint-Ger- Sliding out, Trapp felled the Argen- analyse what has happened.” Parc des Princes. main on Tuesday. tina striker with his feet, but the Ibrahimovic, 34, is out of con- “What a fiasco” screamed the A week on from their 2-2 draw in presence of two covering defenders tract at the end of the season. The front page headline on sports daily the French capital, City saw Sergio meant that he was only booked and Swedish superstar, who has never L’Equipe as the search for someone Aguero squander a first-half penalty from the penalty, Aguero placed the won a Champions League, has to blame began. after he had been felled by PSG goal- ball a foot wide of the right-hand post. already been linked to a move to Former French international keeper Kevin Trapp, but De Bruyne’s With Blaise Matuidi suspended and the English Premier League. David Ginola said on BT Sport tele- late strike settled the Etihad Stadium Marco Verratti injured, it left PSG with- Al Khelaifi said last month he vision that Paris were “lazy” against nerves and completed a 3-2 aggregate out their entire first-choice midfield wants Ibrahimovic to stay. But a Manchester City and he doubted success. and Blanc promptly rejigged, sending summer rebuilding exercise could whether Blanc would still be in Fifteen points off the pace in the on Lucas Moura and reverting to his prove a game changer. Brazilian charge for the 2016-17 season. Premier League and widely consid- trusted 4-3-3. defender Maxwell is also 34 and with Blanc said: “City are a very, very ered the tie’s underdogs, City advance Although City, gamely, continued to no deal after June. good team and we need to congrat- with hope intact that manager Manuel push in search of a goal that would have Brazilian-born Italian Thiago ulate them, but I think we can be Pellegrini may yet bow out with a given them an outright lead, PSG began Motto is 33 and also coming to the disappointed because we could and Champions League winner’s medal to knock on the door at the other end. end of his contract, like Dutch right should have done better.” around his neck before handing over Hart had to parry another stinging back Gregory van der Wiel. “In the first half we played with to Pep Guardiola. Ibrahimovic free-kick and then clubbed Paris have the means and the a new system and what happened, “It’s a very great achievement for the ball over his crossbar after Thiago desire to sign a new superstar, with happened,” said Ibrahimovic who the club, not only to be in the best four Silva’s header from a Lucas corner spat Barcelona’s Brazilian scorer Ney- saw City goalkeeper Joe Hart bril- teams of Europe, but also in the style up off the turf towards him. mar apparently on their wish-list. liantly save two of his free kicks. of play that we never change,” said The introduction of Javier Pastore Al Khelaifi will surely be tempted “If it had gone well, nobody Pellegrini. for the hapless Aurier, on the hour, left to add new faces while keeping the would say anything, and now people But it was a bitterly disappointing PSG with their full attacking armada likes of Angel di Maria, Thiago Silva will say we gave it away. The second evening for PSG coach Laurent Blanc, on show, but it was De Bruyne who and Marco Verratti. half was better, when we reverted to who lost Thiago Motta to injury and has stole the headlines, brilliantly shaping The other question mark sur- our normal tactics, but we gave away now seen his team eliminated in the a right-foot shot into the bottom-right rounds Blanc, who has a contract two games.” quarter-finals four seasons in a row. corner from outside the box to crush until 2018 but has the Champions From a French viewpoint, the The French champions’ ambitious PSG’s spirit. League failures hanging over his Paris performance leaves a sense Qatari owners must once again content City’s fans had to endure a cou- record. “The future? We have a sea- of deja vu. themselves with the pursuit of another ple more nervous moments, with Hart son to finish. We have a French Cup Twelve times in the last 13 sea- domestic quadruple, while Zlatan Ibra- rushing out superbly to save from semi-final to try to win and a League sons a French side has appeared himovic, whose contract expires at the Edinson Cavani and Ibrahimovic see- Cup final to win,” Blanc said. in the Champions League quarter- Manchester City’s Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne celebrates end of the season, may never grace the ing a goal ruled out for offside, before “I know that doesn’t have the finals, and only twice have they gone after scoring during the UEFA Champions league quarter-final continental stage in their colours again. the final whistle rubber-stamped same flavour, the same excitement as further. One was Monaco in 2004 second leg match against Paris Saint-Germain at the Etihad “If we analyse the two matches, in their club’s arrival in the European the Champions League but we owe it while the other was Lyon, semi- Stadium in Manchester on Tuesday. our strong moments we weren’t clinical big-time. to ourselves to win them for the club. finalists in 2010. Aston Villa Leicester City’s trio on PFA shortlist scrap player AFP 22-goal striker Harry Kane, West Kane in the race to be the Premier awards Ham’s France star Dimitri Payet and League’s top-scorer the ongoing Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil. season, while Algeria’s Mahrez has AFP They are all in the running to suc- scored 16 goals, as well as provid- LONDON: Leicester City’s extraor- ceed 2015 winner Eden Hazard, in ing 11 assists. dinary rise to the top of the Premier an award which is voted for by their Meanwhile Kante, recently LONDON: Aston Villa have League has been recognised with peers. capped by France, has won plaudits decided to scrap their player of the inclusion of three Foxes stars Kane is also a candidate to retain for his role as a defensive midfielder. the season awards for the 2015/16 -- Jamie Vardy, Riyad Mahrez and the Young Player of the Year award Payet has also had an impressive campaign, with the club on the N’Golo Kante -- on the shortlist for he won last year, with Spurs team- first season in the English Premier cusp of relegation from the Pre- the Professional Footballers’ Associa- mate Dele Alli, Everton’s Romelu League, while Germany’s Ozil has mier League. tion Players’ Player of the Year award Lukaku and Ross Barkley, Stoke’s shone for Arsenal in what threatens The Birmingham club, bottom next week. Jack Butland and Liverpool’s Philippe to be a disappointing season for the of the table and 15 points adrift of The Leicester trio make up 50 Coutinho also vying for the coveted Gunners. Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Paris Saint Germain reacts after the UEFA safety, will be relegated on Satur- percent of a six-strong panel that award. The award winners will be Champions League quarter-final, second leg match against day if Norwich avoid defeat against also includes Tottenham Hotspur’s Vardy is just one goal behind announced on Sunday, April 24. Manchester City in Manchester, on Tuesday. Sunderland or if they themselves lose at Manchester United. Villa, currently without a man- ager, have won just three league games out of 33 this season and a Sevilla prepare for Europa League clash Hart hails ‘amazing club spokesman said Wednesday: “The club will not be holding its annual Player-of-the-Year Awards at the conclusion of this season. night’ for Man City In the current circumstances, we are sure our supporters will understand.” Villa have lost their last eight AFP prove that they deserve to be there. games and former manager Remi “An amazing night for us,” Hart Garde left last month, with Eric told BT Sport at the Etihad Stadium. Black currently in caretaker “We have worked hard in this com- charge. Last weekend’s 2-1 loss at MANCHESTER: Manchester City petition. We struggled to start with, home to Bournemouth sent Villa goalkeeper Joe Hart said that his but we have started to compete. to the brink of dropping down into team’s European toils had paid off “Credit to PSG, I thought they the second-tier Championship. after they beat Paris Saint-Germain made it a fantastic encounter. I Villa, whose US-based owner 1-0 on Tuesday to reach the Cham- thought we really did shine in this Randy Lerner has been trying pions League semi-finals. leg. It was fantastic from the whole to sell the club, have been ever- Eliminated in the last 16 in the team, even those not on the bench,” present in the Premier League previous two seasons, and in the he said. since its creation in 1992 and the group phase in the two campaigns With Sergio Aguero miss- former European champions were prior to that, City completed a 3-2 ing a first-half penalty, City’s fans last relegated from the top flight aggregate victory over much-fancied endured a night of nerves until De in 1987. French champions PSG thanks to a Bruyne delivered the killer blow with Former Manchester United fantastic 76th-minute strike from a curling shot from outside the pen- boss David Moyes, Nigel Pearson, Kevin De Bruyne. alty area. previously with Leicester, and Sevilla’s Spanish goalkeeper David Soria (right) takes part in a training session on the eve of the UEFA City will now take their place “It feels great. We played a very Garry Monk, who was at Swan- Europa League quarter-finals second leg match against Athletic Club Bilbao at the Cartaya’s municipal in the last four for the first time in good game. PSG didn’t create a sea, have all been linked with the Stadium in Huelva, yesterday. the club’s history and Hart believes lot and I think we deserved to go managerial vacancy at Villa Park. that their performances against PSG through,” he added. 32 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 SPORT Wada makes meldonium U-turn, could affect Sharapova

Reuters said there was “currently a lack of “Given the fact that scores of ath- impartiality and being objective in clear scientific information on excre- letes have tested positive for taking the fight against doping.” tion times”. what previously was a legal product, Alexei Kravtsov, president of the “As a result it is difficult to know it’s clear Wada did not handle this Russian Skating Union (RSU), said MOSCOW: Athletes who tested pos- whether an athlete may have taken properly last year and they’re trying that five-times world champion Pavel itive for meldonium before March 1 the substance before or after Janu- to make up for it now.” Kulizhnikov and 2014 Olympic short could have their bans overturned less ary 1, when it became illegal. Russian Tennis Federation Pres- track gold medallist Semen Elistratov than four months before the Rio de “In these circumstances, Wada ident Shamil Tarpishchev said -- both found to have taken meldo- Janeiro Olympics after Wada said it considers that there may be grounds Sharapova’s ban could be addressed nium -- should be allowed to compete was unable to establish how quickly for no fault or negligence on the in a meeting with ITF head David again after the Wada decision. the drug, outlawed since January 1, part of the athlete,” it said in a state- Haggerty later this month. “These sportsmen should be cleared the system. ment sent to anti-doping agencies “The situation with Sharapova allowed to fall under the amnesty due The World Anti-Doping Agency’s and sports federations, adding that could be resolved after April 21 when to the amount found in their doping notice to national anti-doping bod- the presence of less than one micro- we meet with the head of the inter- tests,” Kravtsov was quoted as saying ies is expected to have a major impact gram of meldonium in the samples national federation. It is too early to by the R-Sport news agency. on many of the 172 athletes who have was acceptable. talk about Sharapova competing at Two more Russian federations tested positive for the performance- The anti-doping body’s notice also the Olympic Games,” Russia’s TASS -- rugby and cycling -- said their ath- boosting drug since January. gave hope to athletes who have tested news agency quoted Tarpishchev as letes who had tested positive could be They include five-times Grand positive for the drug since March 1, saying. free to return to competition. Slam tennis champion Maria Shara- depending on studies being carried Russian Sports Minister Vitaly They include rugby player Alyona pova, who was among 40 Russian out to determine how long it stays in Mutko welcomed Wada’s decision. Mikhaltsova and cyclists Anastasia athletes to test positive for the drug the body. Maria Sharapova reacts as she addresses the media regarding a failed “The Russian Sports Ministry Chulkova and Pavel Yakushevsky after it was added to Wada’s list of Sharapova, who said she had been drug test at the LA Hotel Downtown in this March 7, 2016 file photo. supports and welcomes the deci- who all tested positive for less than banned substances in January. taking meldonium for more than a sion made by Wada because it has one microgram. Sharapova’s lawyer John Haggerty decade because of health problems, shown a willingness to understand Meldonium, manufactured for accused Wada yesterday of “poorly” was provisionally suspended by the failed a test at the Australian Open. is proof of how poorly they handled the situation, rather than stick to the people suffering from heart prob- handling the issue and said they were International Tennis Federation (ITF) “The fact that Wada felt compelled issues relating to meldonium in 2015,” rulebook,” Mutko said in a statement. lems, can also increase blood flow now “trying to make up for it”. Wada in March after announcing she had to issue this unusual statement now Haggerty said in a statement. “Wada has demonstrated and improve exercise capacity. Vesely stuns Djokovic as Nadal, Wawrinka cruise

Bosnia’s World No.99 Dzumhur defeats sixth seed Berdych in other upset of the day

AFP Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma plays a shot during the 2016 Indian Premier League (IPL) Twenty20 cricket match against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens Cricket Stadium in Kolkata yesterday. MONTE CARLO, Principality of Monaco: Novak Djokovic lost only his second match of the season as he fell to Czech Jiri Vesely 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 IPL: Sharma, Buttler guide to exit the Monte Carlo Masters yes- terday. “This is a proof that nobody’s Mumbai to impressive win unbeatable. It happens so many times in my career that I lose a match. It’s not a first time,” Djokovic said. “It’s not easy to lose the match IANS the stadium. The wicket also helped and accept it right after exiting the KKR bring down the run rate. court. Thereafter, some silly errors “But I have to congratulate my from wicket-keeper Robin Uthappa opponent. I think he played very solid. KOLKATA: Rohit Sharma’s love helped the visitors. Mumbai Indians “He was serving very big. He affair with Eden Gardens contin- got to 87-1 at the end of 10 overs. was playing tactically good and ued as he smashed an unbeaten 84 KKR then got rid of Hardik Pan- aggressive. to power Mumbai Indians to a six- dya (9) and Mitchell McClenaghan “There are a very few things I wicket victory over Kolkata Knight (20) in quick succession as they tried Czech’s Jiri Vesely reacts during his match against Serbia’s Novak Djokovic at the Monte-Carlo ATP Masters could take out from today’s match Riders (KKR) in an Indian Premier to slowly crawl their way back into Series tournament, yesterday. INSET: Novak Djokovic of Serbia leaves the court after being defeated by Vesely. as a positive -- I was playing really, League (IPL) encounter here yes- the contest. really bad.” terday. However, Buttler and Rohit had The second round loss in just over Jos Buttler with a quickfire other ideas. The England power-hit- two hours, Djokovic’s opening match “I practise here in these courts. the Monaco title in 2014, will line up 22-ball 41 was the other major ter did not need a sighter and tonked of the tournament, nonetheless left “I’ve lived here for the last eight, TENNIS: MONTE CARLO in the third round against 15th seed contributor. the hapless KKR bowlers too all parts the Serbian with an impressive 28-2 nine years. It’s definitely not some- MASTERS Gilles Simon. “He’s a really tough For KKR, Andre Russell, Piyush of the park. He also took on Andre win-loss record in 2016. thing that I wished and not something player,” Wawrinka said of the French- Chawla and Kuldeep Yadav picked Russell and clubbed him for 18 in He was also beaten when he had that I wanted. But in sport you’ve got man. “It’s going to be a good test for up a wicket each. an over. to quit a Dubai quarter-final two to accept it. know I have to improve for tomor- me to see where is my level.” The defending champions The onslaught brought down the months ago with an eye infection. “Time off will serve me well -- row. But I have confidence because I Bosnian Damir Dzumhur, ranked started off at a brisk pace chasing asking rate rapidly and before long The reigning champion had not mentally mostly. It’s been a tough four have been practising very well these 99 in the world, pulled off an upset KKR’s challenging 187-5 with Rohit Mumbai were in touching distance lost in 22 Masters 1000 matches since or five months. I need time to kind of weeks,” Nadal said. over sixth seed Tomas Berdych 6-4, and Parthiv Patel picking the gaps of the KKR total. going down in the 2015 Cincinnati recharge.” “Let’s see if I am able to play the 6-7 (1/7), 6-3. ` at will. Earlier, fifties from Gau- final and had won his last 14 matches Vesely was stunned by his first way that I was practising. Canadian 10th seed Milos Raonic By the end of the powerplay, the tam Gambhir and Manish Pandey on the ATP circuit heading into this success in nine attempts against a “Tomorrow is going to be a tough struggled past Pablo Cuevas 7-5, 2-6, score read 53-1. But then Brad Hogg along with a quickfire 17-ball 36 week. top 10 player. match against a difficult opponent.” 7-6 (7/5) with 11 aces and three breaks effected a brilliant run-out and sent from Andre Russell helped Kolkata He last went out in an opening “I fought for every point,” said the Fourth seed Wawrinka, who won of serve. back Parthiv to the dugout much to Knight Riders (KKR) post a challeng- match two years ago in Madrid when Czech. the delight of the 35,000-odd fans in ing score. he was beaten in the second round by Djokovic saved a match point in Grigor Dimitrov. the final game but it was not enough “It’s disappointing to lose the first as Vesely earned two more and con- SCOREBOARD match playing at home in a way,” verted on the first of those when the Djokovic said. seed fired wide. KOKLATA KNIGHT RIDERS MUMBAI INDIANS Stan Wawrinka and Rafael Nadal R V Uthappa c Pollard b McClenaghan 8 R G Sharma (not out) 84 both booked spots in the third round G Gambhir c Patel b Pandya 64 P A Patel (run out (Hogg/Uthappa) 23 RESULTS with the pair starting their spring sea- M K Pandey c&b Harbhajan Singh 52 H H Pandya c Pandey b Chawla 9 sons in contrasting form to Djokovic. A D Russell b McClenaghan 36 M J McClenaghan c Munro b K Yadav 20 Second Round French Open champion Benoit Paire (FRA x16) bt Joao Sousa Wawrinka began perhaps the most Y K Pathan (not out) 9 J C Buttler c Yadav b Russell 41

(POR) 6-4, 6-3 important clay seasons of his career C Munro (run out-Southee/Patel) 4 K A Pollard (not out) 1 Stan Wawrinka (SUI x4) bt Philipp Kohls- with a 7-6 (7/2) 7-5 defeat of Philipp S A Yadav (not out) 4 Extras (B-1, LB-1, W-8) 10 chreiber (GER) 7-6 (7-2), 7/5 Kohlschreiber. Extras (LB-3, W-7) 10 Total (for 4 wkts in 19.1 overs) 188 Damir Dzumhur (BIH) bt Tomas Berdych Nadal, the fifth-seeded Roland Total (for 5 wkts in 20 overs) 187 Did not bat: A T Rayudu, Harbhajan Singh, J (CZE x6) 6-4, 6-7 (1/7), 6-3 Garros king, emerged a 6-3, 6-3 win- Fall of wickets: 1-21, 2-121, 3-164, 4-170, Suchith, T G Southee, J J Bumrah. Dominic Thiem (AUT) bt Taro Daniel ner over Briton Aljaz Bedene. Nadal (JPN) 4-6, 6-2, 6-0 will next play Austrian 12th seed 5-183. Fall of wickets: 1-53, 2-87, 3-109, 4-175. Rafael Nadal (ESP) bt Aljaz Bedene Dominic Thiem, who beat him in a Bowling: T G Southee 4-0-43-0 (3w); J J Bowling: A D Russell 4-0-52-1; J W Hastings February clay semi-final in Buenos Bumrah 4-0-32-0; M J McClenaghan 4-0-25-2 4-0-31-0 (2w); G B Hogg 4-0-37-0 (1w); P P (GBR) 6-3, 6-3 Rafael Nadal of Spain returns the ball to Aljaz Bedene of Great Britain Aires. Thiem advanced in Monte Carlo (1w); H H Pandya 2-0-22-1 (1w); H arbhajan Chawla 3.1-0-29-1; Yadav 4-0-37-1 (1w). Milos Raonic (CAN x10) bt Pablo Cuevas over Japan’s Taro Daniel 4-6, 6-2, 6-0. during their second round match at the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters in (URU) 7-5, 2-6, 7-6 (7/5) Singh 4-0-31-1; J Suchith 2-0-31-0 (2w). Player-of-the-Match: R G Sharma (MI). “I’m happy for the victory, but I Roquebrune Cap Martin, France, yesterday. SPORT THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 33

Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team’s British driver Fiji are ‘team Lewis Hamilton competes to place third in the Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix at the Sakhir Circuit in Manama in this April 3, 2016 file photo. to beat’ in Rio, says coach

AFP

SINGAPORE: Fiji are the “team to beat” at the Rio Olym- pics, coach Ben Ryan said yesterday as he eyed sealing back-to-back victories in Singapore. Ryan said the reigning world series champions had been buoyed by last week’s Hong Kong Sevens win, but he also warned against overconfidence. Singapore is returning to the world series this week as the eighth of 10 stops this year -- and with rugby’s return to the Olympics looming in August. “We did want to go to the Olympic Games as number one seeds... and we’re happy with that favourites tag,” Ryan said. “I know the history of Olympic team sports often means that the number one team in the world going into that Olympic sport often doesn’t win but we still think we’re better off being number one than number two. Five things “We’ll put it out there that we will be the team to F1: Hamilton looks for beat. Anyone that beats us will probably win the gold medal.” to watch in Ryan said Fiji also took heart from their record in three-day tournaments -- the Rio format -- after win- ning four out four in the past two years. “If another team suddenly smashes the next three Shanghai more Shanghai success tournaments then that might change things,” the Eng- lishman said. AFP “But we’ve had four three-day tournaments, the same as Rio, in the last two years and Fiji has won every This file photo taken on April 20, 2014 single one of them.” CHANGHAI: Five talking points Fiji beat rivals New Zealand 21-7 in Sunday’s Hong The British shows Mercedes AMG Petronas driver ahead of this week’s Chinese Grand Kong final as they sent out a message before the Olym- Lewis Hamilton of Britain lifting the Prix in Shanghai: triple world pics and stretched their championship lead to five points. champion aims trophy after winning the Formula One “Confidence is high but we have to make sure we 1. Will the real Lewis Hamilton Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai. don’t get over-confident... I’m keeping the pressure on please stand up? to end Mercedes the boys this week,” Ryan said. Hamilton proved again last year team-mate Nico For Ryan and his men, an Olympic gold medal will that when in the mood he is sim- have added significance given this year’s cyclone dis- ply too quick to catch, his total Rosberg’s aster in the nation of 900,000 people. dominance at times driving Mer- winning streak Fiji is still reeling from super cyclone Winston in cedes team-mate Nico Rosberg February, which left 44 dead, 60,000 homeless and to despair. But since clinch- crippled infrastructure. ing his third world title in Texas “We’ve had players that have lost their houses, fam- last October, the Briton has gone ilies that have lost their businesses. It’s been a tough completely off the boil, allowing Reuters time, we now have food shortages and the cost of food Rosberg to rack up five succes- has doubled,” he said. sive wins since the back end of “It’s tough and the boys will go back and do their last season. He needs a win in bit and give their winnings to their families,” he added. Shanghai this weekend to stop SHANGHAI: Lewis Hamil- “An Olympic win will go beyond rugby. That will the German’s surge. Also in focus ton has had more success in boost all our younger athletes to think that if those 12 will be Hamilton’s attire, after he Shanghai than any other For- players from their villages can go to the Olympic Games, caused a stir at the Bahrain Grand mula One driver, which makes then why can’t they do it in other sports?” Prix by turning up in traditional Sunday’s Chinese Grand Prix Middle Eastern clothing -- topped the ideal location for the triple off with designer sunglasses and a world champion to end Mercedes thick gold chain. team-mate Nico Rosberg’s win- ning streak. Sonny Bill thrills fan, 8, 2. A qualified success While Rosberg has started Fans and teams alike will be the season with a perfect 50 with latest giveaway relieved that F1 is returning to last points from two races, and a run year’s qualifying format in Shang- of five successive victories dating hai after the failed experiment with back to last November, Hamilton ‘progressive elimination’ caused red is ready to turn the tables. AFP faces in Australia and Bahrain. The The Briton has won four new, one-by-one knock-out system times in Shanghai and is on for left tracks embarrassingly empty at three in a row after last season times and was much maligned by becoming the only driver to win HONG KONG: An eight-year-old boy has posted a video spectators and drivers alike. Teams the race in successive years. STATISTICS FOR THE CHINESE GRAND PRIX online to thank Sonny Bill Williams for giving him his pushed hard for a return to the old “It’s not been a smooth start Hong Kong Sevens runner-up trophy -- echoing the All format immediately after the first to the season for me, so to be in $Lap distance: 5.451km Total distance: 305.066km (56 laps) Blacks star’s selfless act at the World Cup final. season’s race in Melbourne -- and the championship position I’m in Young fan Cooper Rodda was upset after New Zea- $ Race lap record: Michael Schumacher (Germany) Ferrari, one minute now it’s a case of better late than right now is actually pretty pos- land lost 21-7 to Fiji in Sunday’s Hong Kong final. But he 32.238 seconds (2004) never after governing body the FIA itive,” said Hamilton. cheered up when double World Cup-winner Williams $ relented. Hamilton lies second in the 2015 pole: Lewis Hamilton (Britain) Mercedes agreed to a selfie after the presentations. $ standings after a second and a points behind Rosberg, is not 2015 winner: Hamilton And he was then astonished as the burly former 3. Ferrari’s dodgy engines third place. the only threat to the champi- $Start time: 0600 GMT/1400 local rugby league star unexpectedly handed him his run- Growling menacingly during pre- “Now we go to China for the onship leader. ners-up silver tankard and walked away. season testing, Ferrari’s engines next battle. It’s a track that’s been Rivals Ferrari have yet to WINS It was not the first act of kindness by Williams, who suddenly resemble a second-hand good to me over the years... so show their true pace, and might $ Champions Mercedes have won the last eight races, with Rosberg famously gave away his World Cup winner’s medal to a Skoda’s -- and for no apparent rea- hopefully this race can be the have won earlier without mishap, chasing his sixth win in a row after his victories in Australia and Bahrain. young fan on the pitch at Twickenham last year. son. Sebastian Vettel’s Bahrain turning point.” but Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen $Seven other drivers have won five in a row in Formula One history and “My mom asked him for a selfie... and then when hopes went up in smoke when the Hamilton has not won since can count on plenty of local sup- all ended up as champion that season. Only Germany’s Sebastian Vettel (nine he gave my mom her iPhone back he also gave me this engine of his Ferrari blew on the he took his third world cham- port in a country where red is a in a row), compatriot Michael Schumacher and Italy’s Alberto Ascari (seven awesome HK Sevens runner-up trophy,” Rodda says warm-up lap, after Kimi Raikkonen’s pionship in Austin, Texas, last lucky colour. each) have won more than five in a row. in his YouTube video, holding up the engraved tank- engine caught fire in the season October but the 31-year-old has In Bahrain Vettel did not $Mercedes also won eight races in a row between Italy 2014 and Aus- ard and wearing an All Blacks shirt. opener in Australia. Ferrari mechan- started both races this season on even start, his Ferrari engine tralia 2015. “He’s, like, one of the most nicest guys in the world. ics will work overtime to solve this pole position. coughing out plumes of smoke $Mercedes won 16 of the 19 races last season, with a record 12 one-two I’m his number one fan so thank you Sonny Bill for giv- as they look to mount a challenge to The decision to abandon on the formation lap, but there finishes. Ferrari won the other three. ing me this.” the dominant Mercedes. a failed new live elimination will have been plenty of work Rodda’s mother, Tan Guerin-Rodda, told the South $Hamilton, now a triple world champion, has 43 career victories, putting qualifying format and revert to back at the factory since then. China Morning Post: “Sonny took a selfie with us and him third in the all-time lists and one win ahead of Ferrari’s four-times world 4. A pain in the Haas for old the 2015 version from Shang- “We are pushing very hard just walked off. champion Sebastian Vettel. guard hai onwards is unlikely to make and we know that we can still “It was (my husband) Jeff who said, ‘Oh my God, $ Frenchman Romain Grosjean much difference to Mercedes’ improve,” Vettel said after Schumacher holds the record of 91, with Alain Prost on 51. did you just see what he did?’ I was just gobsmacked. turned heads when he snatched domination of the Saturday Bahrain. We had no idea that would happen, we were caught a creditable sixth place for Ameri- session. Ferrari’s most recent winner POLE POSITION unaware.” can team Haas on their Formula One While Hamilton is still the was Fernando Alonso, in 2013. $Hamilton’s pole in Bahrain was the 51st of his career, the third most of The family are originally from Hawkes Bay in debut in Australia. But he went one bookmakers’ favourite, Ros- Now at McLaren, the Span- all time. Michael Schumacher had a record 68 and the late Brazilian Ayrton New Zealand and moved to Hong Kong two years ago, better in Bahrain, steering the new- berg has reasons of his own to iard’s participation depends on Senna 65. according to the newspaper report. comers to fifth to fire a warning at be confident. him passing a medical on Thurs- $The Briton has been on pole in both races this season. He had 11 poles the likes of Williams and Force India His first Formula One vic- day after being forced to sit out last season to Rosberg’s seven and Vettel’s one. Vettel has 46 career poles, that their early results were no fluke. tory came in Shanghai in 2012 the race in Bahrain on doctors’ Rosberg 22. and he stands on the cusp of his- orders following his horrific $ Mercedes have been one-two on the starting grid in the last eight 5. Alonso hopes for all-clear tory with only three other drivers accident in Australia. races. Former world champion Fern- ever putting together a run of six “While I hope I’ll be back in ando Alonso will be hoping to be or more wins in a row -- two of the cockpit on Friday (for prac- POINTS passed fit to make his return for them also Germans. tice), until I get the all-clear from $Mercedes and Williams are the only teams to have scored points with McLaren after being sidelined since Sebastian Vettel managed the doctors to race, whenever that both cars in both races this season. his horror crash in the season- nine with Red Bull in 2013 and may be, we cannot assume any- opener in Australia. Ruled out of the Michael Schumacher seven with thing,” addressing media, Alonso CHINA last race in Bahrain two weeks ago, Ferrari in 2004. The other was said on Tuesday. $ the Spaniard will undergo further Italian Alberto Ascari in the Belgian reserve Stoffel Van- Hamilton is the most successful there with four wins (2008, 2011, tests before being given the all-clear 1950s. doorne, who scored a point on 2014, 2015), and is the only driver to win two years in a row, while Alonso Coop Rodda poses with Sonny Bill Williams’ by Formula One’s ruling FIA. Mercedes have won the last his debut in Bahrain, remains on has two (2005, 2013). eight races but Hamilton, 17 stand-by. runner’s up trophy. 34 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 SPORT Indiana Pacers seal seventh seed, avoid LeBron’s Cavs

AFP NBA RESULTS Luol Deng scored 17 points and Indiana 102 NY Knicks 90 10 rebounds while Goran Dragic finished with 16 points for the Heat Miami 99 Detroit 93 (48-33). Hassan Whiteside weighed LOS ANGELES: The Indiana Pacers Toronto 122 Philadelphia 98 in with 14 points and nine rebounds clinched the seventh seed in the East- San Antonio 102 Oklahoma City 98 while Dwyane Wade chipped in 14 ern Conference with a 102-90 victory LA Clippers 110 Memphis 84 points. over New York on Tuesday, avoiding Heat rookie forward Justise Win- a daunting opening post season with slow was missing after suffering an Cleveland. ankle sprain. The Pacers win coupled with the while Jerian Grant chipped in with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was Miami Heat’s 99-93 victory at Detroit 18 and Arron Afflalo 13. Detroit’s highest scorer with 17 points. means Indiana will now play second The Knicks finished the season Marcus Morris added 16 points and seeded Toronto in the first round of with a 32-50 record. nine rebounds. the play-offs. “The Knicks came out hot and Elsewhere on Tuesday, San Anto- Detroit, who squeezed into the negated what we were trying to do, nio scored a 102-98 victory over the post season at the expense of the Chi- but then our defensive pressure got Oklahoma City Thunder, with Kawhi cago Bulls, will face LeBron James better, and we were able to get con- Leonard scoring 26 points, to snap a and the Cavaliers. trol of the game defensively,” George three-game losing streak. Indiana recovered from a first- said. Leonard drained a jumper with quarter blitz that saw New York score “In the second half, we got some 49 seconds left in the extra period to 36 points. stops and got some easy opportuni- put the Spurs 100-98 ahead before Washington Capitals’ players celebrate after scoring a goal against the St Louis Blues during the first period Nineteen points each from Paul ties, a lot of transition plays.” Tony Parker added two free throws of their NHL game at Scottrade Center in St Louis last Sunday. George and George Hill anchored the Knicks coach Kurt Rambis with 12 seconds to go. Indiana effort as the Pacers wrapped bemoaned his team’s failure to blunt The win saw the Spurs tie the up a 26-15 record at home during the the Pacers attack. 1985-86 Boston Celtics for most home regular season, 44-37 overall. “They were allowed to pene- victories in a single season in NBA “Teams hit their stride at dif- trate, and that created confusion in history (40). ferent times in the season, and we our defence and allowed them to get San Antonio’s 66 wins is also a Capitals look to reverse were hoping to enter the playoffs open scoring opportunities,” Ram- new franchise single-season record. with some momentum,” said Indiana bis said. The Spurs had already secured the coach Frank Vogel, whose team travel “Paul George got himself going, second seeding in the Western Con- to Milwaukee for their final game. and a lot of that had to do with our ference and complete their campaign “We got a great game tonight execution.” on Wednesday against Dallas. fortunes in play-offs from George Hill, who we ask to play Meanwhile in Michigan, the Pis- The Thunder, who rested stars his game and be aggressive. He does tons tumbled to defeat as Miami Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook whatever he is asked.” improved their chances of securing and Serge Ibaka, will be seeded New York’s Derrick Williams top- home-court advantage for the open- third in the Western Conference in scored for the Knicks with 21 points, ing round of play-offs. the play-offs. Ovechkin’s team starts series against Philadelphia Flyers as Pittsburgh Penguins face the New York Rangers

Reuters

NEW YORK: So much went right for Russian sniper Alex Ovechkin and Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals acknowledges the fans his Washington Capitals this sea- son that they might finally be set to and celebrates his 500th career NHL goal in a game against Ottawa reverse years of postseason heart- Senators in Washington, in this January 2016 file photo. break when the Stanley Cup play-offs open this week. Ovechkin was the National “Every game is like the last game.” NHL: STANLEY CUP Hockey League’s top scorer for a In the past 10 seasons, only the PLAY-OFFS fourth straight year with 50 goals, 2007-08 Detroit Red Wings and goalie Braden Holtby tied the all-time 2012-13 Chicago Blackhawks have mark for single-season wins with 48 finished first overall in the regu- and Washington won the Presidents’ lar season and gone on to win the 1997-98 Detroit Red Wings, lost key Trophy for finishing first overall. Stanley Cup. players in Patrick Sharp, Brad Rich- The 16-team play-offs, with the “Every player that’s in that room, ards and Brandon Saad last offseason winner of four gruelling best-of- growing up, no matter when they through trades and free agency to seven series earning the coveted started playing the game, they were stay within the NHL’s salary limits. Stanley Cup in June. Washington playing for the Stanley Cup, they But they still have captain Rodney Stuckey (left) of the Indiana Pacers shoots the ball during the game against the New York Knicks begin their series today against the never played for the Presidents’ Tro- Jonathan Toews, forwards Patrick Philadelphia Flyers. phy,” said Capitals coach Barry Trotz. Kane and Marian Hossa as well as at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on Monday in Indianapolis, Indiana. Among the other key match-ups, “We all would like to be in that defensemen Duncan Keith and Brent Canadian Sidney Crosby’s Pittsburgh position to play for the one Cup Seabrook, a core group that has won Penguins will face the New York that we all dreamed about when three Stanley Cups together in the Rangers, while the defending Stanley you’re playing on the streets or in past six years. Blount re-signs with New England Patriots Cup champion Chicago Blackhawks the hallways of the house or hotel or However, the group has played will start on the road against the St whatever. That’s the one that we want together in 65 postseason games dur- Louis Blues. to play for.” ing the previous three years and will Agencies Lapham told radio station WCKY that Hall underwent the Ovechkin and the Capitals have The emergence of centre Evgeny need to dig deep if they are to make procedure to repair a disk. first-hand knowledge that a success- Kuznetsov, in his second full season, another deep run. Washington Redskins running back Silas Redd was ful regular season is no guarantee of and addition of TJ Oshie from a trade For the first time in 46 years, the suspended indefinitely without pay for a violation of the play-off success. with the St Louis Blues has buoyed play-offs will not have a Canadian- NEW YORK: Running back LeGarrette Blount re-signed NFL Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse. Since the Russian standout joined the hopes of the Eastern Conference’s based team competing. Back in 1970, with the New England Patriots to a one-year deal worth The league announced that Redd’s suspension will Washington in 2005, the Capitals Capitals as they have provided sec- there only were two Canadian teams up to $2m including incentives. begin immediately. It is his second substance-abuse sus- have never been beyond the second ondary scoring to Ovechkin. in the a 12-team league, compared Blount, an unrestricted free agent, has signed three pension in five months. round and have lost a decisive sev- An Eastern Conference team to seven in the 30-team NHL today. times with the Patriots. A chipped hip bone caused Blount The Buffalo Bills agreed to terms with linebacker enth game in three of the past four has not won the Stanley Cup since Detroit dropped their final to miss the final six games of last season, including the Lorenzo Alexander and safety Colt Anderson, the team years. the Boston Bruins in 2011 as Chi- two regular season games but still play-offs, but he scored six touchdowns. announced. Alexander, 32, has played nine NFL seasons “You have to have luck on your cago (2015, 2013) and the Los Angeles squeaked into the play-offs and Meanwhile, free-agent cornerback Leon Hall remains and was a member of the Oakland Raiders last season. side, you have to be healthy, and you Kings (2014, 2012) have won the last extended the longest active streak of unsigned and it was recently revealed that he underwent The NFL invited 25 players to attend the annual draft have to be focusing one hundred per- four championships. postseason appearances in the his- back surgery following the 2015 season. later this month in Chicago, the league announced. cent, because the playoffs are totally Chicago, looking to become the tory of professional North American Hall, a nine-year veteran, has spent his entire career The list of invitees includes a record-tying five play- different hockey,” said Ovechkin. NHL’s first repeat champion since the sports to 25 years. with the Cincinnati Bengals. Cincinnati color analyst Dave ers from Ohio State.

BASEBALL RESULTS MLB: Diamondbacks, Tampa Bay Rays register wins Detroit 8 Pittsburgh 2 Arizona 4 LA Dodgers 2 Washington 2 Atlanta 1 Agencies strategies, the Tampa Bay Rays are get- victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Atlanta Braves 2-1 on Tuesday. The drove in runs for Philadelphia, which Philadelphia 3 San Diego 0 ting good at go-ahead eighth-inning Tuesday. hit by Harper bounced off the glove won for the third time in four games. NY Yankees 3 Toronto 2 home runs. Upton, who signed a six-year, of a diving Jeff Francoeur, who almost The other Phillies run came home on Baltimore 9 Boston 5 Both their wins this season had $132.75m contract as a free agent in made a brilliant catch near the stands. an eighth-inning error. San Diego (3-5) Tampa Bay 5 Cleveland 1 NEW YORK: The Los Angeles bullpen come that way, and on Tuesday night, January, scored three runs and drove The Braves are now 0-7 this sea- lost for the second time in three games, gave up three runs and Arizona rallied it was second baseman Logan Forsythe in two. son and have lost their last 12 games at while Philadelphia (3-5) won for the Miami 2 NY Mets 1 at Dodger Stadium as Nick Ahmed hit who ripped a two-out, full-count, two- His first-inning homer traveled an Nationals Park. Washington improved third time in four games. Kansas City 3 Houston 2 a solo home run off Pedro Baez to tie run home run to left field off starter estimated 451 feet and landed in the to 5-1 and is 25-9 against Atlanta since Yankees 3, Blue Jays 2 San Francisco 7 Colorado 2 the score at 1 in the top of the seventh Corey Kluber to spark the Rays to a camera well in straightaway center at June 21, 2014. Brian McCann tied the score with Texas 8 Seattle 0 inning and Paul Goldschmidt put the 5-1 win over the Cleveland Indians at Comerica Park. Phillies 3, Padres 0 a sixth-inning homer, Jacoby Ellsbury Diamondbacks ahead for good in the Tropicana Field. Nationals 2, Braves 1 Charlie Morton combined with singled in the go-ahead run in the eighth with a home run to left-centre Tigers 8, Pirates 2 Bryce Harper had a two-run dou- three relievers on a four-hit shutout seventh and the New York Yankees in the third inning to give the Blue field off Chris Hatcher. Justin Upton blasted his first home ble down the left field line off Eric as the Philadelphia Phillies beat the defeated the Toronto Blue Jays 3-2 on Jays (3-5) a 2-1 lead in the opener of Rays 5, Indians 1 run for Detroit as part of a four-hit O’Flaherty with two outs in the eighth San Diego Padres 3-0 Tuesday night. Tuesday night. the three-game series against the When it comes to winning afternoon, lifting the Tigers to an 8-2 as the Washington Nationals beat the Odubel Herrera and Maikel Franco Jose Bautista hit a two-run double Yankees (4-2). SPORT THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 35

Rio golfers must Khan to ride on be snappy with alligators lurking fear factor at Reuters

RIO DE JANEIRO: Slow rounds are common in world golf but players competing at the Olym- Alvarez showdown pics in August may need to be snappier than usual as they will have alliga- with most oddsmakers. Khan, tors, capybaras and other however, who is now based in San wildlife for company. The 29-year-old Francisco with trainer Virgil Hunter, The new Olympic golf British champion believes facing an opponent as chal- course was built in a spec- faces his first lenging as Alvarez can bring out the tacular area surrounded best in him. by lagoons that are home middleweight test “Obviously we don’t want to walk to several species of wild as he takes on WBC into a fight and get hurt,” said Khan, animals including alliga- who is 31-3 since turning profes- tors, according to local champion in May sional after winning a silver medal media reports. at the 2004 Athens Olympics at the At least five biolo- age of 17. gists will be on hand in “By me taking this fight, I will be case the reptiles need AFP more focused. I know I can’t make to be moved away from mistakes against this guy,” Khan said players or spectators, in a conference call. said the Folha de S.Paulo “I’ve made mistakes in the past newspaper. LOS ANGELES: British boxer Amir at other weights because I thought I Authorities are also Khan believes the fear factor could was more gifted than them, I knew I British boxer Amir Khan AMIR KHAN: FACT FILE set to erect signs issu- help him score a shock victory next was more skilled and a better fighter ing warnings about the nearby wildlife. month when he steps up in class to than them guys.” Nickname: King face Mexico’s World Boxing Coun- “They can be my worse oppo- Golf is returning at the Rated at: Lightweight, Light-welterweight, cil middleweight champion Canelo nents because I don’t really have that Rio de Janeiro Olympics Welterweight Alvarez in Las Vegas. fear element. and elusiveness can help against a “I wasn’t for the fight. What after a 112-year absence Khan, 29, raised eyebrows across “But when you’re fighting some- naturally stronger opponent. changed my outlook on it was Amir’s Height: 5 ft 8 1⁄2 in (174 cm) from the Games and the the boxing world earlier this year one who is tough, dangerous it is “I know I’m not going to be response to me when I asked him Reach: 71 in (180 cm) course was built a few after announcing his May 7 fight at going to be a tough fight and that is stronger than him,” Khan said. why did he want this fight and his Nationality: British miles from the neighbour- the T-Mobile Arena against Alvarez, what brings my ‘A’ game out.” “It’s the first fight I’m walking response to me was quite assuring Born: December 08, 1986 (age 29) in England hood of Jacarepegua, the hard-hitting 25-year-old from Khan is unbeaten in five fights, into as the underdog and that’s good. that he understood what he was BOXING RECORD which means Alligator Guadalajara. with the last of his three defeats a Because I can prove to people that going up against and what he was Total fights: 34, Wins: 31, Wins by KO: 19 Lagoon. It represents a risky move for fourth round technical knockout by this is where I belong.” getting into,” Hunter said. Losses: 3 Rivers in local parks are Khan, who has never previously Danny Garcia in 2012. Khan’s trainer Hunter mean- “I don’t view Amir as an under- MEDAL RECORD filled with alligators while fought above the welterweight limit The Briton boxer said that being while confessed he was reluctant dog. I’d be doing him a disservice if Silver medal at Athens Olympic Games 2004 capybaras, the world’s of 147 pounds (66.7 kilograms). Alva- an underdog against Alvarez will suit to accept the bout when it was first I viewed him as an underdog. I view (Lightweight) largest rodents, are also rez is the overwhelming favourite him, confident that his hand speed made. him as the top dog.” commonly sighted.

Britain’s triple world champion and Payday for Azerbaijan’s double world record holder Adam Peaty. golden girl Kostova

Reuters

FORDE, NORWAY: Bulgarian-born Boyanka Kostova won a gold medal for Azerbaijan at the European cham- pionships in Norway on Tuesday and is set to reap the financial rewards offered by her adopted nation. Kostova, 22, won her third Euro- pean gold when she retained her women’s 58kg title, after comforta- bly beating her nearest rival, Irina Lepsa, of Romania. Poland’s Joanna Lochowska was third. “My training and preparation for this championships went well and I was pleased today,” said Kos- tova, who was named female athlete of the year by the International Weightlifting Federation after the world championships in November. “If all goes well, and I am in my best form at the Olympics, maybe I will try for another world record.” Kostova said she did not know Record holder Peaty books how big her state-funded reward would be, but Azerbaijan often pays huge sums to medallists at major competitions. Two wrestlers who swimming place in Rio won gold at London 2012 were paid $510,000 each. Azerbaijan offers fast-track nationalisation to athletes in a Reuters Double world champion James range of sports, among them Russian SWIMMING:BRITISH Guy dominated in the 400 freestyle gymnasts, American and Cana- OLYMPIC TRIALS final by clocking three minutes 43.84, dian ice skaters and the Bulgarian also well inside the Olympic consid- weightlifters. LONDON: Triple world champion eration time. After Kostova won gold at the Adam Peaty booked his place at the is great,” he told the British Swim- “The pressure is off now and I can 2010 Youth Olympic Games for her Rio Games by winning the 100 metres ming website. enjoy the rest of the meet,” he said. “I native Bulgaria, at the age of 17, she breaststroke at the British Olympic “I know that wasn’t near my best, know I can make little improvements was offered the chance to switch trials in Glasgow in a time of 58.41 I’m glad that I came first but I know now ahead of the summer.” allegiance to Azerbaijan, along seconds on Tuesday. what went wrong and what went well Hannah Miley, a 400 women’s with another top teenager, Valen- Boyanka Kostova of Azerbaijan competes in the women’s 58kg weight The mark, if nowhere near the in that race. Hopefully next time I can individual medley silver medallist tin Hristov. 21-year-old’s own world record of get out a bit faster and come back at the 2011 Shanghai champion- The Azerbaijanis paid $550,000 class during the 2015 International Weightlifting Federation World 57.92 that he set at the same national stronger.” ships, won her event in 4:33.40 which to the Bulgarian federation. Championships at the George R. Brown Convention Center in this championships last year, was faster Peaty won world championship should also see her safely on the Hristov became Azerbaijan’s first November 23, 2015 file photo in Houston, Texas. than August’s world championship- titles in the 100 and 50 breaststroke plane to Rio in August for her third Olympic medallist in the sport when winning time of 58.52. in Kazan, Russia last year as well as Games. he won a bronze at London 2012, at Her first snatch attempt at 95kg, medallist Sergei Petrov, of Russia. “Just qualified for my first Olym- the 4x100 mixed medley relay and is British swimmers won only three the age of 18, but he has since twice which she made look ridiculously Because of so many failed lifts by pic Games, no other feeling like hoping to become the first male Brit- medals, a silver for Michael Jamieson failed dope tests and faces a life- easy, was 2kg better than any of her medal contenders, the bronze went competing for your country at this ish swimmer to capture Olympic gold in the 200 breaststroke and freestyle time ban. nine rivals but 14kg lower than her to a B Group lifter, David Sanchez level,” he said on Twitter. in 28 years. bronzes for now-retired Rebecca Kostova will go to Brazil as opening effort in Houston. Lopez, of Spain. Despite being a big hope for gold, The relay and 50 are not in the Adlington, at their home Games in favourite. At the world champi- Another Olympic hopeful, the Hungary’s Noel Nagy set a record Peaty said he had taken nothing for Olympic programme but Peaty is also London in 2012 but are hoping to onships in Houston, she broke the improving Daniyar Ismayilov, made when he made his international granted despite being world cham- aiming for the 200 breaststroke, a strike gold in Rio. world record in the snatch (112kg) it three golds in three days for Tur- debut in the Men’s 77kg C Group. At pion at the distance. distance he has not swum since Janu- The British team is due to be and total (252kg), but she lifted well key when he won the men’s 69kg. 46, he is the oldest competitor in the “The pressure is off now, which ary. That trial event is on Friday. announced next week. within her capabilities in Forde. Ismayilov was well clear of silver history of the championships. 36 THURSDAY 14 APRIL 2016 Qatar eye tri-nations title at home event

Asia Rugby Championship Division III series to kick off on April 16 at Aspire Zone

The Peninsula

DOHA: The Qatar Rugby Federation will host the tri-nations Asia Rugby Championship (ARC) Division III at the Aspire warm up and purpose built rugby track from April 16, it was announced here yesterday. The national rugby teams of Leb- anon and Iran will be in Doha for the FROM LEFT: General Manager of IEC Joe Karrat, Qatar National Rugby captain Tom Featherstone, Qatar competition in hope of claiming the ARC Division III title. Rugby Federation (QRF) Team Manager Hamad Anbar Abdulla, General Manager Copthorne Hotel Kabalan The championship is organised Frangieh QRF Senior Coordinator Samuel Rico, pose for a picture after a press conference in Doha yesterday. by Qatar Rugby Federation (QRF) The Qatar Rugby Federation will host the tri-nations Asia Rugby Championship Division III from April 16. in cooperation with Qatar Olympic RIGHT: Qatar national team training at Aspire Zone ahead of the championship. Besides hosts Qatar, Iran Committee (QOC) and Lebanon are the other teams taking part in the championship. The first match of the competition will see Qatar battling with peninsula Rugby has dominated the rugby head- The tri-nations competition will XV’s team and was part of the Qatar friends Iran on April 16. The match is lines but now rugby XV’s much to the be played in a single pool round robin Rugby Sevens National side that com- scheduled to start at 6pm. delight of many has the front page. format. peted in Al Ain earlier this year. Three days later, on April 19, Iran This tournament is open to extra par- Competition points will be He said: “Rugby is in my blood I will be involved in the second match ticipants (15 players) many of whom awarded on the following basis: Win don’t know of any other sport to play. this time against Middle East counter- Sevens excludes due to their bulky 4 points, Draw 2 points, 4 or more tries Full credit to the QRF for their recent parts Lebanon. The match will start and heavy frames. 1 point and a loss by 7 points or less Sevens championship and their role at 7pm. This will be the first time the Asia 1 point. they are playing in promoting Rugby QATAR NATIONAL XV’S SQUAD On April 22, Qatar will slug it out Rugby Championship will be played in Speaking about the champion- in Qatar. This can only improve and with Lebanon for the tournament’s Doha since it changed its name from ship captain of the Qatar national as a result the sport will attract good Players: Thomas Nolan, Jamie Frost, Aaron Salmon, Aaron Palmer, Huw Kinsella, Mark final match. The match is scheduled the HSBC Asian 5 Nations in 2015. team Tom Featherstone said: “We quality players and coaches”. O’Donnell, Tom Featherstone, Neil Thomas, Robbie Gaule, Paul Beard, Mubarak Al for a 6pm start. Qatar made an impact in its debut are ready to beat both teams. We are QRF General Secretary Ali Al Malik, David Saxon, Jonathan Davis, Rakan Mutawaa, Timothy Newnham, Talal Mujalli, The last nine weeks Qatar Sevens at the A5N in 2011 Division IV beating playing to win. We are very strong in Malki thanked all the sponsors and Joseph Dharshan Goonetilleke, Malcolm Reid, Abdulaziz Al Dosari, Shane Watson, Asia Rugby Lebanon and Jordan for the cham- the forwards with plenty of experi- paid tribute to the Copthorne Hotel Asad Ali, Grant Finn, Oliver Scudamore, Matthew Uffindall, Abdul Karem Al Muhannadi. pionship in Dubai. In the 2013 A5N ence there and that’s where we will who will be hosting the teams. Coach: Aaron Palmer, Assistant Coaches: Caine Elisara and Brook Tremayne. Championship held in Kuala Lumpur, Qatar crushed be playing them.” “We are delighted at the oppor- Manager: Nick Thurston China 76 – Nil and overcame a strong “The Iranians are very physical tunity of hosting the tournament Division III Fixtures Guam 13 -7 to win the finals. and like playing it close to the middle with Asia Rugby. This tournament April 16 In 2014, the A5N was held in Qatar while the Lebanese are more flam- will be the biggest challenge for the support. I wish to also acknowledge the Copthorne Hotel as their partner. Qatar vs Iran, 6.00pm at the Al Arabi Stadium. Qatar beat boyant with their play and will throw Federation to date. I call on all the Kabalan Frangieh the General Man- The QRF is working hard to develop April 19 Thailand and Iran to advance to the the ball out wide to their backs. What- sports community to join us and ager of the Copthorne Hotel who has rugby in Qatar and we are excited to finals which they lost to Malaysia. ever strategy both teams play we are show the world that we are capa- been a willing partner in the devel- be part of that visionary process. The Iran vs Lebanon, 6.00pm The ARC matches will be played ready for the counteract,” Feather- ble of hosting and presenting world opment of Rugby playing host to the Copthorne Hotel is a strong supporter April 22 across 80 minutes divided into two stone added. class events.” Lebanese and Iranian national rugby of community sports and we will do Qatar vs Lebanon, 6.00pm lots 40 minute halves with a 10 minute Featherstone who has been a res- “The QRF wish to thank its teams and holding all events for the our best to deliver the best service Venue: Aspire Zone break. Teams will consist of 23 players ident of Qatar since 7 years old has partners the QOC, the Aspire Foun- Asia Championship”. which can only reflect on Qatar as a and are allowed 8 reserves. played 8 caps with the Qatar national dation Zone and IEC for their ongoing “We are very happy the QRF chose whole,” Frangieh said. Klopp calls for bravery in Dortmund showdown

AFP

LIVERPOOL: Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has instructed his players to forget about their slen- der away-goal advantage ahead of today’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against his former club Borussia Dortmund. Liverpool secured a 1-1 draw in Djamel Belmadi (left), coach of Lekhwiya speaking during a press conference in Doha yesterday. Lekhwiya last week’s first leg in Germany, with Divock Origi’s first-half opener for take on Meisameer in the last round match of the Qatar Stars League tomorrow. the visitors cancelled out by a header from Mats Hummels. But with Dortmund having plun- dered 119 goals in all competitions this season, Klopp does not expect Athletic’s goalkeeper Gorka Iraizoz smiles during a training session at Lekhwiya aim to finish QSL Origi’s goal to prove decisive. the Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium in Seville on the eve of the UEFA Europa “I think we can ignore the first League quarter finals second leg match against Sevilla FC. leg,” said the German, for whom the Europa League represents the last chance to crown his maiden season will be the biggest difference.” The Dortmund with a brace in Sunday’s season on a winning note with a piece of silverware. first leg took place amid a fervent 4-1 defeat of Stoke City after coming “This Dortmund team can score atmosphere at the Westfalensta- on in place of Sturridge. goals. They are not an opponent dion, where kick-off was preceded Captain Jordan Henderson will be The Peninsula didn’t plan to lose against Al Ahli. you have to do your job till the end. where you can go into a game think- by a stirring communal rendition absent after sustaining a season-end- Five goals are a lot to concede and If the players want motivation for ing we can keep a clean sheet. Maybe of the clubs’ shared anthem, ‘You’ll ing knee injury in the first leg, with we need to change some things in the this last match they need to think after 85 minutes it (the away goal) Never Walk Alone’. fellow England midfielder James Mil- team before our Champions League about the last match against Al Ahli, will be relevant, but not earlier. Scarves will be held aloft and the ner in line to inherit the armband. DOHA: Lekhwiya will take on game in Uzbekistan.” in which we conceded 5 goals and to “It is a completely normal game words of the 1945 show tune belted Dortmund went into the tie as already-relegated side Al Mesaimeer “In a meeting with our players erase the memory of that,” added the and the crowd is more of an advan- out again at Anfield today, while there competition favourites, but strug- at the Lekhwiya Stadium in Round 26 we said we lack consistency. We had forty-year-old. tage if we are good and if they like the will also be a pre-match minute’s gled to cope with Liverpool’s pressing of the Qatar Stars League. some good periods as we had 9 wins Mesaimeer have already been game they will help us more than the silence to mark the 27th anniversary and were then held to a 2-2 draw Lekhwiya have confirmed a in a row. Consistency has been a big relegated from the QSL and will ply goal in Dortmund. of the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, in by hated local rivals Schalke at the fourth place finish this season and issue for us as our squad was not pre- their trade in the Qatar Gas league “Only when we play 0-0 it is a which 96 Liverpool fans lost their weekend that left them seven points the last round match will have no pared for playing in many different next season. With only six points real advantage. If we win we don’t lives. below leaders Bayern Munich in the effect on the standings for the Red competitions,” added the Algerian from twenty-five games, the Torches need it; if we lose it isn’t helpful. In addition, supporters of both Bundesliga. Knights, which will compete in the tactician. will hope to end the season with “This is a new start and we will clubs will hold up coloured mosaics Dortmund coach Thomas Tuchel Qatar Cup for another season. Motivation is key in the last stages three points. see who handles the situation better. forming ‘96’. used the opportunity to rest eight Djamel Belmadi, coach of of the season as minds and legs get Despite a disappointing sea- Who is more clear in their offensive On the pitch, Klopp’s most press- first-team players, including star Lekhwiya hopes to get back to win- tired. Belmadi believes that the play- son Rodion Gacanin, coach of Al action, who is more disciplined in ing selection dilemma concerns forwards Marco Reus and Pierre- ning ways in the last game> ers must work until the end of the Mesaimeer insists that he is proud defence, who is brave enough to take whether to keep faith with Daniel Emerick Aubameyang, and will “In terms of target there is no tar- season till the job is done. of his players. a chance? Sturridge up front or turn back to restore his big guns to his starting get for us or them as Mesaimeer have “It’s difficult to find motivation “We have shown good character “In my opinion the atmosphere Origi, who followed up his goal in line-up today. been relegated. In our last game we in the end of the season but I believe over the season.”