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Tuesday 16 December 2014 • 24 Safar 1436 • Volume 19 Number 6281 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 4455 7741 | Advertising: 4455 7837 / 4455 7780

Father Emir opens Mal Lawal exhibition Go ahead with Oil prices at projects: Emir DOHA: The Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, yesterday asked the gov- ernment to go ahead with its plans to launch new low; no various key projects and initiatives aimed at boosting economic development. The Emir approved a number of projects and measures that aim to, among other things, earmark budgets for allocating new plots of land for a number of crucial requirements. cut in output They include housing, commercial activi- ties, warehousing and industrial needs, health, education and agriculture. The Emir instructed the government to Brent at $61; US crude at $55.91 press ahead with these projects and execute them in accordance with the plan of action NEW YORK: Oil prices Abdullah Al Badri, Secretary- drawn up for them. plumbed to five-and-a-half- General of the Organisation of the Earlier, the Prime Minister and Interior year lows yesterday after Opec Petroleum Exporting Countries, Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin said it would not cut oil output said the group could ride out Khalifa Al Thani, made a presentation on a despite fears of a glut, and a an oil price slump since June of number of government projects and initia- UAE official opposed holding an nearly 50 percent without amend- Under the patronage of the Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Father Emir H H tives to support economic development, QNA emergency meeting of the pro- ing production. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani inaugurated the second Mal Lawal Exhibition at the Doha reported. THE PENINSULA Continued on page 7 ducer group to fix prices. Influenced by top exporter Saudi International Exhibition Centre yesterday. Report on page 2 US benchmark West Texas Arabia, Opec decided last month Intermediate for January deliv- that cutting output meant losing ery lost $1.90, closing on the its market share. On Sunday, Al New York Mercantile Exchange Badri hinted that speculation was at $55.91, its lowest level since behind the steep price declines. early May 2009. Suhail bin Mohammed Al The European benchmark, Mazroui, oil minister of the UAE, Extend voting time for CMC poll: Shura panel Brent North Sea crude for later said there was no need for January delivery, settled at $61.06 an emergency Opec meeting to DOHA: The Advisory Council timing of the poll by two hours, forward and filed nomination to should be allowed to file their nom- a barrel in London, down 79 cents help support prices. wants the polling time for the from 8am until 7pm. The Council contest the CMC election. ination 45 days before the election from Friday’s closing level. Venezuela and Algeria, which upcoming Central Municipal reasoned that an extra two hours The deadline for filing the nom- is due. In case one’s candidature Oil prices have plunged need higher oil prices for their Council (CMC) election to be be allowed to eligible voters to ination is proposed to be extended is rejected he should be allowed to roughly 50 percent since June, economies, were among Opec extended for two hours due to reach their respective polling by three days also keeping in mind request a review by the CMC elec- weighed down by plentiful sup- members that had hinted at an traffic jams in Doha and its booths in view of traffic jams on that in any of the 29 constituen- tion committee within seven days. plies, the stronger dollar and emergency meeting after last outskirts. most roads as people generally cies some emergency situation Candidates should be permit- weak demand arising from month’s Vienna summit that did According to the law that regu- leave their homes only after 4pm. can arrive which can merit post- ted to withdraw their nomination the struggling global economy, not agree on output cuts. Opec’s lates CMC election, polling is to be The Council proposed an ponement of the deadline. seven days before the election. according to analysts. next meeting is in June 2015. held on the day of the election for amendment to another article of The draft law that seeks to Ministers, defense personnel, “You have all these Opec offi- Oil was up initially early yes- nine hours, from 8am until 5pm. the draft law according to which regulate the election of the CMC, members of judiciary, diplomats cials reiterating they are not terday on news that Libya’s two The law is being amended and the deadline for filing nomination which has 29 members and whose and administrative officials are going to cut production, so you biggest oil ports had shut due to its draft is ready. The Advisory in a (CMC) constituency is urged terms is four years, has 48 articles not eligible to contest the CMC are seeing selling into the rallies,” fighting between armed factions Council yesterday proposed fur- to be extended by three days from divided into seven chapters. election. said Phil Flynn, analyst at Price allied to the country’s two rival ther amendment to an article the original date if no candidate Other provisions of the draft THE PENINSULA Futures Group in Chicago. governments. AGENCIES of this draft (law) to extend the from that constituency has come suggest that eligible candidates Continued on page 2

No chances of rain on Marriage complex to open today National Day: 70 Thursday, says Met buses arranged DOHA: The Department of Meteorology DOHA: Five super luxury marriage daily Al Arab reported yesterday. “For ($82,384) and QR500,000 ($137,306), the has said there are no chances of rain on halls located in a single complex and many a Qatari youth who are short of daily said. The marriage hall complex is DOHA: The National Day cel- Thursday (National Day). The weather built at the government’s expense are funds and want to marry, the long wait is located in Al Rafa area on Celebration ebrations organising committee will be partly cloudy and in outside areas it ready to be allotted for use free of cost coming to an end,” the daily said quoting Street on the outskirts of Doha. has arranged 70 buses to trans- could be a little dusty on Thursday said the to Qataris marrying for the first time. people who expressed the hope the halls “No doubt the halls will come in handy port people to various locations Department issuing forecast for three days The other condition for free use of the would promote marriages in the Qatari as many Qatari youth have been delay- on the Corniche where the events beginning tomorrow. Day temperatures hall or the entire complex, if the need community. ing their marriage plans due to high will take place. will be up to 23 degrees C on all the three be, is that both the bride and the groom Wedding is quite an expensive affair expenses,” said Khamees Al Miraikhi. Visitors can board the buses from days while the night will be cold on Friday must be Qatari. in the largely consumerist Qatari society Rising demand for marriage venues has dedicated car parking areas near at some places as the minimum tempera- The complex that is being awaited and nearly all the financial burden falls prompted star hotels to up their rates to Post office, Qatar Sports Club, Qatar ture forecast is 11 degrees C. However, with a lot of excitement by the Qatari on the groom or his family. Expenses exorbitant levels, he said. Petroleum building and Souq Waqif. tomorrow there are chances of scattered youth and the community at large, is on wedding venues in hotels work out THE PENINSULA All entry points for vehicles to rains and the minimum temperature could to be inaugurated today, local Arabic to between a staggering QR300,000 Continued on page 7 the celebration site will be closed fall to 15 degrees C. On Thursday, the min- from morning and people will be imum temperature likely is 13 degrees C. transported by special buses, a local Continued on page 7 Arabic daily quoted Brigader Ali Salman Al Muhannadi, head of the Largest Qatari flag made security committee for the National 3 dead in Sydney siege Day celebrations as saying. from sand on show today No private vehicles will be SYDNEY: Heavily armed Australian police stormed allowed in the area particularly DOHA: The largest Qatari flag made from a Sydney cafe early yesterday morning and freed a during the military parade. The sand will be unveiled at the Sealine beach number of hostages being held there at gunpoint, parade will start from Ministry of this afternoon in the presence of senior in a dramatic end to a 16-hour siege in which three Information intersection and end Qatari officials. There are 150 students people including the attacker were killed. at Emiri Diwan intersection. The working on the flag being carved out from Police have not publicly identified the gunman but closure will continue until all the one of the sand dunes in Sealine. A group of a police source named him as Man Haron Monis, an vehicles and equipment used in the Qatari youth floated the innovative idea as Iranian refugee. During the siege at the Lindt cafe, hos- parade will be removed. a tribute to their country on the occasion of tages had been forced to display an Islamic flag, igniting Seven information centres have National Day. The flag is made of sand mixed fears of a jihadist attack. Heavy gunfire and blasts from been set up for inquires. The after- with water and other environment-friendly stun grenades filled the air after 1500 GMT. noon events will start at 5pm and material stretching an area of 2,400 sqm, Moments earlier, at least six people believed to continue until midnight. Security reported a local Arabic daily. The flag can have been held captive managed to flee after gunshots forces including traffic police will be seen from a distance and can stay for a were heard coming from the cafe, and police said they be deployed along the Corniche to considerable period as a landmark of Sealine, Hostages run towards a police officer near Lindt Cafe, at Martin Place in central made their move in response. REUTERS maintain order and security. said the daily. THE PENINSULA Sydney, yesterday See also page 15 THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 02 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME

Condolences Father Emir opens Mal Lawal biennial sent to Fujairah,

DOHA: The Father Emir villages and avenues of old Qatar, Ajman Rulers H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa or ‘Al Fergan’, the walls of the DOHA: The Emir H H Al Thani launched the second expo are shaped as arcs extend- Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Mal Lawal biennial yesterday at ing in some cases to 40 metres to Thani yesterday sent cables Doha Exhibition Center (DEC). accommodate thousands of pieces. of condolences to Supreme Presented by Qatar Museums, H E Sheikh Hassan bin Council Member and Fujairah the expo showcases 4,000 tradi- Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani, Ruler Sheikh Hamad bin tional artefacts collected by over Deputy Chairman, Board of Mohammed Al Sharqi and 110 Qatari private collectors and Trustees, QM, said: “We’re Supreme Council Member and 42 from the GCC region. delighted to present the second Ajman Ruler Sheikh Humaid Organised into nine categories, edition of Mal Lawal, in conjunc- bin Rashid Al Nuaimi fol- Mal Lawal (‘from the old days’ tion with National Day celebra- lowing the death of Sheikha in Qatari dialect) features manu- tions, highlighting Qatar’s unique Fatima bint Rash id A l Nua im i, scripts, weapons, Islamic collec- heritage. By raising awareness mother of Fujairah Ruler and tions, old maps, ethnographic/ of such objects’ importance and sister of Ajman Ruler. heritage items, antiquities, jewel- instilling love of preserving their The Deputy Emir H H Sheikh lery, clothing and accessories and historical, social and cultural Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani other rare items. worth, Mal Lawal encapsulates also sent condolence cables to the This year, new elements have QM’s strategy of focusing on art, Supreme Council Member and been introduced. Four majilis set- creativity and heritage to honour Fujairah Ruler and the Supreme tings give visitors a glimpse into the traditions of the past while Council Member and Ajman the heart of a traditional Qatari embracing the future. Ruler. home. Live video links deliver a To exhibit as many entries The Prime Minister and virtual experience of eight ‘home as possible and provide visitors Interior Minister H E Sheikh museums’ and their private with the best overview of the rich Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa collections. culture and heritage the region Al Thani sent similar cables to More than 100 ‘oral histories’ offers, the organising committee The Father Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, accompanied by officials, tours the expo at Doha Exhibition the Supreme Council Member captured in mini-films document has moved the expo to DEC, with Center yesterday. and Fujairah Ruler and the and celebrate the memories and a space spanning 8,000sqm. Supreme Council Member and observations of venerable Qatari Nasser Al Hammadi, expo and heritage. Our hope is that this to support the second edition of awareness and appreciation of Ajman Ruler. QNA elders. Chairman and Curator, said: “Mal exhibition strengthens a spirit of Mal Lawal, allowing us to witness local art and cultural heritage, The expo also features a food Lawal demonstrates how valuable national participation.” and support the preservation of particularly among the younger Councillors want court and cafes serving tradi- participating in exhibitions and Stephen Kelly, President and Qatar’s heritage, values and iden- generation in Qatar.” tional dishes, as well as a chil- the wide range of events avail- General Manager, Oxy Qatar, tity. We hope the unique sense of The expo is open to the public to use Internet, dren’s area with a mobile cinema. able to local communities can be main sponsor of the expo, said: engagement and community the from today until February 28. Inspired by traditional streets, in teaching us about our culture “Oxy Qatar is again honoured expo creates will further enhance THE PENINSULA social media for canvassing

Continued from page 1 Earlier, during a debate on the draft, some members of the Waiting time for medical penal appointments fall by 67pc council said those contesting the CMC election should be allowed DOHA: Waiting time for Medical centre in Zekreet and a unit for the com- and build a multi-storey car parking at substitutes was made during the year. to canvass using the Internet Commission appointments fell by 67 per- mission in Doha during the year. Expansion Rumailah Hospital. The number of employ- The SCH worked in collaboration with and social media since they are cent over the past one year and the time during the year included 22 health facili- ees at the SCH, HMC and primary health- the Ministry of Finance to increase taxes effective yet cheaper means of taken for issuing results of routine tests ties under construction, of which four are care increased by 8 percent from 2012. on tobacco and make pictorial warnings reaching out to the electorate by 48 percent, the Supreme Council of expected to open by the year-end. The National Health Insurance Company mandatory on tobacco products. compared to newspapers. Health (SCH) said yesterday. More than 86 percent of emergency was established to oversee the National A new plant for air purification started A member, Rashid Al Medadi, Laboratory analysis at the commission cases have been attended by the Emergency Health Insurance Scheme (Seha). A US operation and a centre for assessment of said there is no need to make increased by 38 percent while the waiting Department at Hamad General Hospital. company was appointed to manage claims risks arising from associated environmental such a proposal via an amend- time for results of specialised tests fell by The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) at of other parties and the SCH completed the factors that cause cancer was established. ment to the draft law since the 30 percent, according to report released by HMC established 44 dispatch points across first tables of fees and premiums for Seha. School nursing services increased by 7 use of the Internet and social the SCH ahead of National Day. the country. The ambulance response in The Qatari identity card has been adopted percent during the year reaching 83.7 per- media for canvassing is not The SCH has completed preparations 75 percent of emergency calls was in less as a document of national entitlement to cent of total schools. barred by the draft. The draft to establish five units for the commission, than 10 minutes in Doha and less than 15 insurance. The number of organ donors registered law has been referred by the 24 health centres, 10 hospitals and 17 spe- minutes outside. A draft law for application of the with HMC increased by 261 percent dur- council back to the Cabinet. cialised facilities. The SCH plans to shift the Paediatric International Code for World Health ing the year. THE PENINSULA The SCH opened a temporary health Emergency in Al Sadd to new premises Organisation for marketing breast milk THE PENINSULA

TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 04 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME

Emir greeted on National Day by new Pakistan Ambassador Visitors explore world of

DOHA: Pakistan’s Ambassador to Qatar has congratulated the Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on the eve of National Day. Shahzad Ahmed said in a statement yesterday that Pakistan under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif was grateful for stronger ties with horses at Darb Al Saai Qatar, and that these relations had seen a recent historical visit of a high delegation from Pakistan, including Mohammed Shehbaz Sharif, Chief Minister of provincial government of Punjab, and Shahid Al Shaqab Equestrian Centre competes in annual National Day Cup Khaqan Abbas, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Resources. “Let me take this opportunity to convey these heartfelt congratu- lations from the people of Pakistan to the Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the people of Qatar on the eve of their National Day. Qatar and Pakistan are two brotherly countries with strong and old ties and we are taking this opportunity to confirm these relations,” the ambassador said. THE PENINSULA 90pc Qatarisation in govt entities in next 10 years DOHA: Qatar is targeting a 90 percent Qatarisation in the minis- tries and government entities within the next 10 years. After studying the creation of job opportunities at government enti- ties, the Ministry of Administrative Development in October 2014 Al Shaqab Jockey Faleh Bughenaim approved the creation of 2,799 jobs for Qataris at 43 government agen- after winning the Adult Endurance cies, it said yesterday as it listed out its performance during the year category trophy in the National Day as part of National Day celebrations. Cup. The ministry also looked into opportunities for localisation of jobs and linking education outcomes to the requirements of the labour market through an integrated plan to empower young Qataris. DOHA: Al Shaqab Equestrian Over a short period, the ministry made accomplishments that aimed Centre’s tent at Darb Al Saai at developing and improving government administrative bodies, it said. is enabling visitors to explore THE PENINSULA the world of horses, and help- Qatar Academy student Sultan Al Sulaiti interviewing Ghazi Hussein, a veteran actor, in the Qatar Foundation tent ing honour a tradition deeply at Darb Al Saai. rooted in Qatari heritage. Al Shaqab, a member of Qatar QF’s tent for National Day cel- on December 8, QF Radio has Al Sulaiti had the opportunity QTA marketing forum Foundation (QF), is giving special ebrations and taking inspiration been encouraging participating to interview Qatari veteran actor riding lessons and horse health- for career opportunities. students to build confidence by Ghazi Hussein. care tips outside the QF tent. Events help introduce young giving them the opportunity to be Hussein said: “This is the sec- As part of its celebrations, people and the general public to reporters for the day and consider ond time I have come to QF’s tent concludes today the centre competed in the QF’s initiatives and achievements broadcasting as a future career. to participate in National Day annual National Day Cup, taking that support Qatar in building a Dozens of Qatari students con- celebrations. DOHA: Qatar Tourism market.” He said that to maxim- home honours in the endurance knowledge-based economy by ducted interviews in Arabic and “I think the movement in Darb Authority (QTA) concludes ise the positive impact of Qatar’s category. unlocking human potential. English with visitors. Among Al Saai is in full swing, and it is so today the annual Framework marketing efforts and resources, Jockey Faleh Bughenaim came Youngsters took part in fun them was 15-year-old Qatar wonderful to see so many people Marketing Summit aimed at it is vital that all parties focus on first in the adult category. Racing and educational activities based Academy student Sultan Al of all ages and nationalities cel- mapping out a worldwide tour- promoting key attractions that 120km on his horse ‘Halte A around QF’s three pillars of edu- Sulaiti. ebrating together Qatar’s beauti- ism promotion programme for give Qatar its distinctive edge. Tout’, he was led to victory by the cation, research and community He said: “Radio broadcasting is ful history and culture.” the fiscal 2015-16. “It is a question of synergy,” team’s manager and trainer Hadi development. my hobby. This is my first oppor- The tent is open throughout The summit brings together AlQurese said. Al Ramzani. Activities included a reading tunity to do it in a professional National Day celebrations until senior QTA Head Office execu- “We continue to avoid any Hassan Tahous Al Nuaimi corner to promote interest in lit- setting. This experience has given December 20. tives, representatives of QTA’s five dissipation or fragmentation of came fifth in the same race, while erature, and professional devel- me the opportunity to commu- Open to families, activities overseas offices and private sector Qatar’s message, and ensure we Mohammed Bughenaim was sec- opment activities encouraging nicate with the public and QF include healthy living exercises, stakeholders from local hotels and create a strong and positive brand ond in the 100km race. students to choose career paths Radio’s listeners, and prompted children’s interactive play area other industry suppliers. positioning and identity that Thousands of students from aligned with their interests. me to think about the possibility and colouring station. “The event is important in continues to resonate in our key across Qatar have been visiting Since the opening of QF’s tent of specialising in the field.” THE PENINSULA ensuring that all parties involved overseas markets.” in Qatar’s tourism industry Today’s final session will be understand QTA’s vision, mission, addressed by QTA Chairman Issa values and marketing philosophy,” bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi said Rashed AlQurese, Chief who will highlight that market- Ooredoo launches National Day campaign Marketing & Promotions Officer, ing Qatar internationally carries QTA. “As a relatively new destina- a strong partnership between DOHA: Ooredoo has launched and be published in campaign by visiting celebrate our roots and Sultan Al Kuwari, Director tion on the world travel map, we the public and private sectors. its Qatar National Day cam- the Ooredoo Qatar the website http:// the beautiful country Community and Public need to ensure that Qatar puts AlQurese stressed that part of the paign, inviting customers to National Day book. qatarslegacy.ooredoo. we are proud to be part Relations, Ooredoo. out a clear and consistent mes- summit’s agenda will be devoted share the reasons why they are The ‘Book of qa, or posting their of. We are inviting our Posts published in the sage to enhance and maintain to working sessions. proud to live in Qatar to get Legacies’ will include stories via Facebook, customers, social media book and on the website its profile in the international THE PENINSULA the chance to win an iPhone 6 the best submissions Twitter and InstaGram followers and every- will be selected by a team from the public and with the hashtag one who logs onto our of Ooredoo employees. Ooredoo employees and #QatarsLegacy. website to share their Those chosen to be part of will be distributed for Submissions can stories of pride about the book will be contacted free to everyone who include stories, pic- Qatar, not just to win via email later. has content published tures, songs, videos and an iPhone 6 or be part Ooredoo will give away in it. artwork. of our book, but to con- three iPhone 6 to custom- People can take “National Day is nect with the people ers with the best submis- part in the legacy a chance for us to of Qatar,” said Fatima sions. The winners will be announced via social media. The company will also hold employee celebrations to mark the occasion, with a event also for the teams who continue to work during the day of celebra- tion to ensure Qatar stays connected. THE PENINSULA Qatar’s Al Quds panel meets DOHA: Under the patronage of the Foreign Minister H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah, also Head of Qatar’s Permanent Committee for Support of Al Quds, the panel held its second meet- ing for the current year at the Foreign Ministry under the chairman- ship of the Assistant Foreign Minister for International Cooperation H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdurrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, also Deputy Chairman of the panel. It discussed implemen- tation of projects pro- posed by Palestinian side, including three schools, a department of fertilisation at Red Crescent Society Hospital in Jerusalem and a project for purchasing advanced medical devices for Al Makassed Islamic Hospital. QNA

TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 06 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME FIA backs Qatar’s efforts towards road safety

Khalid Al Hashmi (right), Executive Director, Cyber Security, National Information Security Centre, ictQatar, and Rashid Al Neami, Cyber Security Scores pass through the Students for Road Safety driving simulator Specialist, at a press conference on the sideline of a cyber security training by ictQatar at Crown Plaza Hotel in Doha yesterday. SALIM MATRAMKOT DOHA: The world govern- ing body for motorsport has extended support to road safety in Qatar by highlighting a pro- Sector-specific cyber gramme that seeks to raise awareness about safe driving and educate youth on positive road behaviours. security drills planned As part of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile DOHA: The Ministry — drills,” he told media persons. (FIA) General Assembly in Doha of Information and In the first phase, focus will recently, scores passed through the Communications Technology be on the financial and oil and Students for Road Safety driving (ictQATAR) will conduct sec- gas sector. There are no sector- simulator, positioned next to the tor-specific cyber security drills specific drills and representatives Prize Giving Challenge track. from 2015, said a senior official from different sectors participate Road safety is fast becoming of the ministry on the sidelines in one exercise. a global problem, according to of the second National Cyber “The nature of cyber threats to FIA, with 1.3 million people los- Security Drill yesterday. one sector differs from other sec- ing their lives and 50 million seri- The drill is organised annually tor,” said Rashid Al Neami, Cyber ously injured annually as a result to improve the readiness of public Security Specialist. of accidents. and private organisations against More than 320 delegates from Captain Riyadh Ahmed Salih, Officials with the road safety team at the event. cyber threats. around 35 organisations from sec- Head, Traffic Awareness Section, “From next year, we will tors, including finance, telecom- Traffic Department, said, “We all of Interior remains committed to aged 12-18 with interactive presen- the Students for Road Safety conduct separate drills for dif- munications, energy, government, have a responsibility to do every- reducing road injuries in Qatar.” tations and coaching by trainers in programme that is focused on ferent sectors because each sec- transportation, aviation and thing we can to protect our young Students for Road Safety was an immersive driving simulator to changing behaviours among 12 to tor’s requirement is different health, participated in the drill. people. launched a year ago by programme imitate Qatar’s roads and driving 18-year-olds. for cyber security. The idea is to The drill is the first of its kind “The department is proud to owners Maersk Oil Qatar and the behaviours. “We are proud to spon- decentralise the exercise,” said in the Middle East and North partner with Students for Road ministry as part of One Second The ministry also utilises sor Students for Road Safety Khalid Al Hashmi, Executive Africa region and setting global Safety which is part of One Second safety initiative. this simulator for awareness as part of our ongoing support Director, Cyber Security, National standards for information secu- National road safety brand. I con- This year, almost 1,500 students programmes. for programmes that leave a Information Security Center, rity exercises to improve collabo- gratulate the programme on a have benefited from one-to-one Sheikh Faisal bin Fahad Al lasting impact on the people. ictQATAR. ration and nations’ readiness to successful first year, capped off coaching on road safety at their Thani, Deputy Managing Director, Congratulations to the Traffic “The national initiative aligns address cyber risks as one team, by endorsement by FIA during its school and/or community events Maersk Oil Qatar, said, “The suc- Department for its continued with the National Cyber Security said officials. General Assembly in Doha. led by Students for Road Safety. cess of the FIA event is another focus on reducing road injuries,” Strategy’s second objective THE PENINSULA “The department of the Ministry The programme targets students example of the versatility of he added. THE PENINSULA First free book on Qatar Al Asmakh sculpture symposium opens

DOHA: Twelve artists from archaeology, heritage nine countries are taking part in the first Al Asmakh International Sculpture published online Symposium 2014 which runs until December 26 at Al DOHA: A new partnership to generate the distinctive colour Asmakh Farmhouse, Umm highlighting archaeological and shine of early silver Islamic Salal Ali. research in the Middle East has lustre. The presence of silver and Under the patronage of Sheikh been set up between University copper nanoparticles in the glazes Faisal bin Qassem Al Thani, College London in Qatar (UCL of 9th-12th century ceramics give Regency Art and Wyndham Qatar) and QScience.com, the some of the most decorative works Grand Regency Doha yester- online academic publishing of that time a golden, reflective day launched the inaugural platform of Bloomsbury Qatar nature, which was highly-valued. symposium. Foundation Journals. UCL Qatar Director, Thilo The week-long cultural event The partnership takes the Rehren, said: “Qatar Foundation will witness artists express crea- shape of a new, open access book and UCL Qatar share a strong tivity by capturing the beauty of series entitled ‘UCL Qatar Series ethos of excellence, and are com- Qatar through visual arts. Mohammed Al Atiq (fifth left), General Manager, Regency Art, and Hassan Ibrahim Al Asmakh (sixth left), Vice- on Archaeology and Cultural mitted to promoting research as They include Ali Altekhais President, Business Development, Regency Group Holding, with other artists at the opening of the symposium Heritage’ enabling anyone any- a key element of creating knowl- (Saudi Arabia), Gamal Sayed yesterday. ABDUL BASIT where in the world to freely read edge. This is relevant for cultural (Egypt), Mahgoub Babikir about archaeological research and heritage as much as for engi- (Sudan), Salim Omar Al Marhoon screening, considering their sale and would be given to us role sculptures play as a form of build a greater understanding of neering, as we all live in a society (Oman), Salah Ben Amor works. Apart from creating a for collection and display to pro- expression and conveying impor- the region’s fascinating history. shaped by its heritage, which we (Tunisia), Sylviane Courgeau sculpture on the beauty of Qatar’s mote the culture of sculpture,” Al tant message, he said the sym- ‘Craft and science: International need to understand to shape the (France), Stefano Sabetta (Italy), nature based on their background Asmakh said, adding sculpture posium is the starting point of a perspectives on archaeological future.” Mohammed Al Atiq and Talal Al and experience, the artists will is not at the forefront of the art larger sculpture symposium next ceramics,’ is the first volume in QScience.com Editorial Dhefairi (Qatar) and Carolina also participate in activities, scene in the Middle East. year. the series to be published this Director, Christopher Leonard, Palmero, Laura Marcos and including lectures and museum He hoped the symposium The event is organised by week. said, “These open access books Maria Trinidad (Argentina). visits. will be one of the historical and Regency Group Holding with Edited by Marcos Martinn- mean that anyone anywhere in Hassan Ibrahim Hassan All works produces by the art- cultural pillars of Regency Art the support of the Ministry of Torres, an archaeologist at the world can read about this Al Asmakh, Vice-President, ists will be exhibited at a recep- programme to offer talented Culture, Arts and Heritage and is UCL in the UK, the full text is research and build upon it for Regency Group Holding, told a tion in Wyndham Grand Regency artists a platform to showcase sponsored by Dar Al Sharq Group, freely available to download on a greater understanding of the press conference at Wyndham Doha’s lobby on December 24 their artistry and works and Gulf Crafts, Al Fath Advertising & QScience.com One chapter of the history of Qatar and the wider Grand Regency Doha that the from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. strengthen Qatar’s status on the Printing, Art Friends and Regency book focuses on techniques used region.” THE PENINSULA artists were chosen through “The works would not be for map of global art. Stressing the Fleets. THE PENINSULA

Paris Saint-Germain Academy returns to Doha Toll-free number set

DOHA: Many boys and girls aged between six and 16 years up to access Seha recently took part in the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) football DOHA: The National Health the benefit of the nation.” school, which aims to train the Insurance Company (NHIC) The NHIC also operates addi- next generation of sporting has announced a new toll-free tional communication channels stars. The second PSG academy number — 8008800 — to access for members to interact with and was brought by Ooredoo. the National Health Insurance contact the scheme. The sessions welcomed children Scheme (Seha). These include information from a schools, competition win- Seha members can call the booths at key public and private ners and guests. The young play- number to follow up on claims, hospitals as well as a customer ers took part in technical training seek information and clarifica- care centre on the sixth floor of sessions led by PSG coaches and tions, enquire about scheme- Amwal Tower in West Bay. supported by UEFA-qualified related issues or make suggestions The public can also con- coaches. and complaints. tact NHIC via the Seha social Fatima Sultan Al Kuwari, The call centre is open from media accounts at facebook.com/ Director of Community and Saturday through Thursday from SehaQatar and twitter.com/ Public Relations, Ooredoo, said: 7am to 10pm. SehaQatar. “Ooredoo supports and champi- Dr Faleh Mohamed Hussain Members can also call the call ons young people across Qatar Ali, Acting CEO, NHIC, said: centre on 4020 8444, or visit the through sponsorship, events and “The new service we’re launch- customer care centre. opportunities such as this. We ing helps facilitate the public’s Seha’s coverage includes in- believe in investing in the next access to the quality and diverse patient and out-patient serv- generation and working with Coaches with young students. healthcare services covered by ices, including preventative care, top teams like PSG, so that we Seha. As we celebrate National emergency treatment, physi- can inspire Qatar’s young people support and involvement in Qatar shared approach to encouraging playing, stamina training and Day, I would like to convey our otherapy, occupational therapy, to work hard and follow their and across the company’s global healthy lifestyles and support- basic rules of football. best wishes to H H the Emir, H E speech therapy, long-term care, dreams.” footprint. ing young people’s ambitions and Participants received PSG the Prime Minister and the peo- radiology, ophthalmology, labo- Ooredoo and PSG signed a The coaching clinic pro- aspirations. Academy training kits and ple of Qatar and underscore that ratory testing and prescription sponsorship agreement in 2013, gramme is part of Ooredoo, PSG Children are taught skills, diploma during the closing cer- we will continue to expand and medicines as well as dental and with emphasis on community and Evolution Sports Academy’s including tactical and defensive emony. THE PENINSULA improve the scheme’s services for optical service. THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 07 Ashghal holds student visit Doha-Barkal camp to open in Sudan next month DOHA: The Vice-Chairman of Board of Trustees of Museums, Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed Al Thani, also Chairman of the joint committee to its HQ, Heritage Village of Qatar-Sudan Archaeological Project (QSAP), yesterday visited Jebel Al Barkal — Doha-Barkal camp — which will be opened in the northern state next month. He was accompanied by Qatari Ambassador Rashid bin Abdulrahman Al Nuaimi and Dr Abdullah Al Najjar, CEO, QSAP, and Dr. National Day initiative aimed to enhance communication with youngsters Salah El Din Mohamed Ahmed, General Coordinator, QSAP. Al Najjar said 95 percent of the project had been accomplished and the remaining will be DOHA: The Public Works finished in the next two weeks. QNA Authority (Ashghal) held a visit of school students to its headquarters as part of National Day celebrations. Free ‘marriage halls great news’ The initiative, ‘Ashghal in the eyes of our children’, welcomed Continued from page 1 complex is spread over an area of a group of students from vari- “Those of us who marry get over 100,000sqm and the buildings ous age groups to the authority’s trapped in vicious debt cycles as a of the complex cover some 17,600sqm. headquarters. result of high expenses and bank The remaining are open and green “This year we were keen to loans,” he added. areas. intensify participation of stu- Al Miraikhi said it was an addi- The five halls can each accommo- dents from various age groups in tional joy that the wedding halls were date 500 people. They are intercon- National Day activities organ- being inaugurated on the occasion of nected, separated by makeshift walls ised by Ashghal. National Day. that can be removed to make way “We believe National Day is Saeed Abdullah Al Biraidi and for a supersize hall that can accom- all about strengthening patri- Salem Hamad Al Qamra, two other modate up to 2,500 people. otism and spirit of belonging in Qatari youth, said they were excited Centrally air-conditioned, the halls the hearts of the new genera- by reports of free marriage halls complex has all modern facilities one tion,” said Abdulla Saad Al Saad, being made available to their ilk. “It’s can imagine in a building, including Manager, Public Relations and great news,” they said. modern kitchens, the daily said. Communications Department. According to Al Arab, the THE PENINSULA The initiative is part of the authority’s efforts to enhance its communication with youngsters who represent an essential seg- ment of society, encourage their interests, and make them aware of their role in developing the country. Ashghal has developed a pro- gramme for students, which Students viewing models of health centres during their visit to Ashghal headquarters. includes briefing them on the Authority, its departments, spe- It is a small model of an old ways is through hard work, con- The programme aims to cialisations, and core projects. Qatari village with diverse cul- tributing to and participating in familiarise participants, espe- Students were welcomed by tural elements. achieving Qatar National Vision cially youth, with traditions officials and engineers, who took It features a traditional mar- 2030. and customs, and strengthen them on tour of roads, buildings ket highlighting crafts, customs, “We hope the initiative will their patriotism and spirit of and drainage projects. occupations practiced on a daily inspire the new generation to belonging. Engineers responsible for basis in the past, presenting leg- think about their future and This year’s celebrations each area gave a detailed expla- acies left behind by our parents encourage them to engage in included initiatives and activities nation through presentations on and grandparents. the fields of engineering and to introduce Ashghal employees, the nature and components of “While planning the pro- construction to contribute to consultants and visitors to tra- projects, latest achievements, gramme, we ensured to educate the country’s development,” Al ditions. They also include a new and future projects. students on the Authority’s role Saad said. initiative, ‘Qatarna, Our Past The school visit also included and projects. The initiative aims Ashghal celebrates National and Present’ to create the larg- a tour of Ashghal’s Heritage to show youngsters that there Day every year with initiatives est album of images of Qatar’s Village, set up for the first time are ways to express love for and activities inspired by the past and present. this year. their country. One of the best Qatari heritage and culture. THE PENINSULA PM highlights government initiatives

Continued from page 1 The presentation was made at a meeting of the Supreme Council of Economic Affairs and Investment, chaired by the Emir. Made by the Premier, it covered the government’s initiatives to support industry, commer- cial areas, tourism, food security, roads and public transportation and labour housing and promoting trade and economic sectors of priority. The strategy of projects of the storage sector was also discussed during the presentation and plans for offering markets and com- mercial streets and build- ing central markets. Bolstering money mar- kets and the bourse was also discussed at the meeting and generally development plans related to sectors like industry, economic areas, tourism, food security, roads and public transportation and labour housing came up for discussion. The meeting was attended by the Deputy Emir and Vice- Chairperson of the council H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani and the Minister of Finance and Secretary-General of the council H E Ali Sherif Al Emadi. THE PENINSULA Tumultuous sea, strong wind likely Continued from page 1 The wind will be strong tomorrow and the sea tumultuous, said the depart- ment. On Thursday the sea will be wavy with moderate to strong wind. On Thursday and Friday, the wind direc- tion will be northwesterly which means some chill in the air since the wind will be blowing from the colder regions of Europe. THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 08 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME

Kazakh National Day marked Over 78pc QU graduates were females in 2013-2014 DOHA: More than 78 per- cent of the graduates of Qatar University (QU) during the 2013-2014 academic year were females, says a report released by QU ahead of National Day. A total of 1,261 students grad- uated during the year, including 822 females and 273 males. The number of Qatari graduates stood at 649. The number of students increased by 59 percent over the past three years, reaching 16,499 during the 2013-2014 academic year. The Kazakhstan Ambassador, Askar Shokybayev, cutting a cake to mark his country’s National Day, in QU provided financial aid to www.swiss-belhotel.com the presence of the Minister of Education and Higher Education H E Mohammed Abdul Wahed Ali Al students such as monthly assist- ance, tuition fees, accommodation Tel Hammadi (third right), and other officials at Grand Hyatt Hotel yesterday. BAHER AMIN fees worth QR10,929,470 during Fax the year and 53 percent of benefi- ciaries were Qataris and 57 per- cent non-Qataris. The number of scholarships Tel granted by QU during the aca- Fax GRSIA helps Qatari demic year 2012-2013 increased by 10 percent compared to the past two years to reach 645 in different disciplines. During this year, the number of the faculty Tel retirees set up SMEs reached 817, including 161 Qataris. Fax DOHA: The General the Ministry of Administrative percent between 2012 and 2013. Fatma Al Remaihi Retirement and Social Development annual training Investment costs of civil pension Insurance Authority programmes to improve staff fund’s assets in 2013 reached new CEO of DFI Tel + 974 44298888 (GRSIA), in cooperation with performance and productivity. QR52.9bn from QR46.3bn in Enterprise Qatar, launched The GRISA implemented the 2012, up 14.34 percent. DOHA: Fatma Al Remaihi has Fax ‘Step’ initiative to establish system of connectivity and data Investment costs of military been appointed CEO of Doha partnership for training reti- exchange with over 500 employ- pension fund’s asset in 2013 rose Film Institute (DFI). rees and provide them with ers to provide contribution data to QR19.4bn from QR17.3bn in She will also serve as Director Tel knowledge and skills to estab- from employers. It created a 2012, up 11.70 percent. of the Ajyal Youth Film Festival lish their small and medium positive impact on obtaining Assets of the military and and Qumra and build on DFI’s Fax enterprises (SMEs). contribution data in a timely civil pension funds stood at goals of promoting a strong film ‘Step’ further enhanced manner and facilitating com- QR89.7bn. The pension funds’ culture in Qatar through film Qatari retirees’ standard of liv- munication between the GRSIA profit in 2013 increased by appreciation, education and Tel ing, provided them with addi- and those parties. 166.15 percent compared to financing initiatives. Fax tional revenues to mitigate the The Authority also conducted 2012, as investment income of She has been DFI’s Acting CEO burden of living expenses and a study on the extent of Qatar’s the military and civil pension since August 2014 in addition secure opportunities to estab- commitment to International funds in 2013 reached about to Director of the festival. She lish businesses. Labour Organisation’s social QR3.3bn from QR1.2bn in 2012. previously served as Director of Tel It helped retirees, who seek protection standards. The ratio of investment in Programmes. Fax self-substantiation and to It participated in the devel- Qatar amounted to 95.8 percent Al Remaihi joined DFI in 2009 catch up the world of small and opment of the post-2015 for the civil pension fund and as Cultural Adviser to the first www.doha.hilton.com medium businesses, with infor- Millennium Development Goals 99.07 percent for the military edition of the Doha Tribeca Film mation and experience, GRISA on social development, studied pension fund, while the total Festival. She was behind the Tel 44233333 974+ said in a statement highlight- legislations issued by the state ratio of investments outside establishment of a partnership ing its achievements over the and their impact on GRSIA’s Qatar was 4.1 percent for the with The Giffoni Experience, Fax 44233000 974+ past one year. The GRSIA, in activities and submitted pro- civil pension fund and 0.93 per- whose youth jury model informs cooperation with the Supreme posals and perceptions on the cent for military pension fund. the competition section of the Education Council, also issues related to the Authority’s Investment returns of civil Ajyal Youth Film Festival and launched a scholarship pro- activities. pension fund amounted to 4.62 brings together international gramme for specialisations des- The GRSIA’s investments percent and of military pension youth media specialists for ignated by the Authority, and in military and civil pen- fund 4.52 percent in 2013. the Doha Giffoni Youth Media organised in collaboration with sion funds increased to 13.62 THE PENINSULA Summit. Born and raised in Doha, Al Remaihi graduated from Qatar University with a degree in English literature. Tel Fax QNET offers Q-Breaks Qatar Executive showcases holiday products DOHA: QNET is putting a new Tel private jet at Dubai show spin on vacationing by offering Fax exciting, adventurous getaways DOHA: Qatar Executive Vision attracted visitors dur- the widest and most spacious for Middle East clients this hol- made its presence felt at ing the three-day show, who cabin interiors in the world of iday season through Q-Breaks the Middle East Business were given the opportunity to super-large business jets. Able holiday products. Tel Aviation Show by participat- see interiors and refined cabin to fly non-stop from Doha to Whether it’s a journey to sun Fax ing with its elegant stand features of the technologically- destinations such as Tokyo, soaked-beaches in Asia, a private at the Dubai World Central advanced aircraft. the aircraft offers high levels romantic escape in Europe, or exhibition site. It displayed its David Edwards, Executive of comfort through its two- a fun vacation with the family brand new Bombardier Global Vice-President, Qatar cabin configuration and allows exploring pyramids of Egypt, any- 5000 Vision private jet. Executive, said: “Qatar for seven passengers to sleep thing and everything is possible. Tel The biennial show was inau- Executive continues to go comfortably. Khaled Diab, Regional General Fax gurated by Sheikh Ahmed bin from strength to strength and The show allowed Qatar Manager, QNET MENA, said: Saeed Al Maktoum, President, MEBA is an opportunity to Executive to showcase its grow- “Come and feel the thrill of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, showcase our expanding fleet ing business aviation service exploring new places, grab the Chairman and CEO, Emirates and demonstrate our industry portfolio and raise interest opportunity to spend special time Tel Group, and Chairman of Dubai leading offerings to partners for its new General Aviation with your loved ones, create new Airports, who visited Qatar and customers.” Terminal being built at Hamad memories and relish the magical Fax Executive’s booth during a The Global 5000 jet combines International Airport and is to feeling of being in a far-away land Royal Tour. luxury and unsurpassed per- open in the first half of 2015. with our Q-Breaks travel pack- Bombardier Global 5000 formance, and features one of THE PENINSULA ages.” THE PENINSULA

Tel Fax Ooredoo wins top CommsMEA awards DOHA: Ooredoo has received major marketing campaigns that inspire young It began airing across pan-Arab and awards at the CommsMEA Awards 2014 people, or dedicated programmes to support international channels during the FIFA in Dubai recently. underserved communities, Ooredoo strives World Cup 2014 in June. The advert received Tel The Group’s major investment in 4G and to make a difference and enrich people’s over 11 million views online, making it the Fax fibre technology received the ‘Technology lives in every market that we operate in.” most popular and most-watched from the Investment of the Year’ award, and its Ooredoo’s investment in 4G services has region, with particularly strong viewing fig- ground-breaking Simply Do Wonders cam- enabled it to become the Middle East’s ures in Indonesia, Qatar, Algeria and Kuwait paign with football star Leo Messi received leader in the provision of ultrafast 4G – four of Ooredoo’s key markets. Tel ‘Marketing Campaign of the Year’ award. services, offering 4G in Qatar, Kuwait and Asiacell’s work with refugees and inter- Fax Ooredoo’s Asiacell operation received Oman, and hold leading positions in mobile nally displaced people has delivered benefits ‘Corporate Social Responsibility Campaign data across its markets. in 2014. The company has worked hard to of the Year’ for its ongoing work with refu- The company has made progress in keep communication channels open within www.marriottmarquisdoha.com gees and internally-displaced people in Iraq. its network modernisation programme conflict areas by distributing 10,000 free The company’s operations in Qatar were across its footprint to stay ahead of rising SIM cards equipped with a free SMS notifi- Tel + 974 44195000 commended in the ‘Customer Service demand for mobile Broadband services, and cation service, offering vital information for Fax + 974 44195100 Provider of the Year’ section, and its Mobile has taken a lead in 3G services in Algeria, internally displaced people and refugees. It Health Clinic initiative was recognised in the Tunisia and its newest market of Myanmar also established a call centre in Sulaimanyah ‘Corporate Social Responsibility’ division. in 2014. to connect people with organisations and Dr Nasser Marafih, Group CEO, Ooredoo, Ooredoo’s innovative approach was dem- programmes that provide support, as well said: “These awards demonstrate the onstrated by its ‘Simply Do Wonders’ cam- as donating handsets to refugee camp rep- range and incredible impact of our initia- paign, which included an advert starring resentatives to enable families to contact tives across our footprint. Whether it is Leo Messi and an attention-grabbing social each other across conflict zones. pioneering network technology, engaging media contest. THE PENINSULA

TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 10 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

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Freedom rebuffed Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate

HE Pope’s refusal to meet the Dalai Lama because of “the delicate situation” with China is shocking insofar as relations of the Vatican with the Tibetan Tspiritual leader are concerned. The head of the Roman Catholic Church’s rebuff to the exiled Chinese leader Amid terrorism fears in Europe, comes at a time when China is spreading its global footprint across the world. Despite growing concerns over its human rights records, stifling hold of the Communist Party over are security forces going too far? administration, and territorial disputes walloping ties with neighbours, China has been unusually successful in spreading BY GRIFF WITTE its influence in regions as far as Africa and Latin America. Bashar Al Assad, and many have in October after Britain’s main domestic linked up with the Islamic State or intelligence service, MI5, acknowledged The Tibetan spiritual leader was in Rome for a meeting S A prisoner at Guantanamo other extremist groups. Speaking on to prosecutors that Begg had told them of Nobel Laureates. Dalai Lama won the Nobel Peace Prize Bay, Moazzam Begg’s only propaganda videos from the battle- of his plans before he travelled. in 1989. He is an opponent of the Chinese regime and fled escape was in his dreams — field, European fighters have called on Both before and after this year’s to India in 1959 where he heads the Tibetan Government- his nightly chance to leave their countrymen to carry out attacks arrest, he has been sharply critical of in-Exile. The Vatican is largely concerned about the fate of the grim confines of his US at home. When American and British the Islamic State, expressing disgust at Amilitary cell and return to his family in hostages were decapitated, it was a Brit the group’s ritualised executions and dis- Catholics in China who number more than members of the England. But after being held for seven who wielded the knife. regard for civilian life. He even wrote a Chinese Communist Party. Though the Communist regime months this year at a maximum security And yet, critics say, European govern- personal letter from prison to the group’s in Beijing has kept a check on the spread of Christianity in British prison on terrorism charges that ments may be exacerbating the prob- leader, Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi, urging the country, there are about 100 million Catholics in the east were ultimately dropped, Begg, now free, lem with a heavy-handed response that him to release British aid worker Alan Asian nation, the birthplace of Confucianism —a belief system has seen his dreams turn to nightmares. includes mandatory arrests of returnees, Henning. It remains unclear whether based on the teachings of Confucius. He’s been imprisoned for nearly four years lengthy prison sentences and a lack of authorities delivered the letter; Henning on three continents by the West’s two lighter alternatives, including reintegra- was subsequently beheaded. It is believed that by 2030 China will have the largest leading powers, all without a trial. tion programs. Begg’s lengthy detention this year has number of Catholics in the world. Religion is a vexed issue Amid a new wave of terrorism-related “Arresting and prosecuting people only confirmed the suspicions of many in China that straddles a Communist system of governance anxiety sweeping Europe as fighters doesn’t really tackle the root causes of Muslims in Birmingham, and across with a capitalist economic model. return from Syria, he fears it’s only the problem,” said Imran Awan, a crimi- Britain, that their community is being With its growing economic might, a matter of time before he’s arrested nologist at Birmingham City University unfairly targeted. “They feel like they’ve Beijing has been able to create again. “How many who studies counterterrorism strategies. been vilified, demonised and stigma- Pope Francis’ prisons? How “You just alienate and isolate people even tised,” Awan said. refusal to meet large pockets of loyalties across the many police sta- more if the government is locking people His case is not the only one that has world. It is investing furiously in tions? How many up and throwing away the key.” raised hackles. Two 22-year-olds from the Dalai Lama African countries to shore up its Policies are secret detention Policies are expected to get tougher Birmingham were both sentenced by a global economic influence. It has expected to get sites are they in the months ahead, as several govern- judge to 12 years in prison this month in Rome points geopolitical stakes in a number going to put me ments push legislation authorising new after returning from the Syrian front in, and then not powers to seize passports. In Britain, lines. But the men’s families said that of regions including the Middle tougher in the to the growing try me? And then the government has fast-tracked a bill they felt betrayed by the stiff sentences East where it supports the Syrian months ahead, not give me my that could prevent former fighters from and that they had been promised leni- influence of regime of President Bashar Al day in court?” returning home for up to two years, tem- ency in exchange for cooperation. as several said Begg, his face porarily stripping them of their rights The security crackdown has extended China on world Assad, who is fighting a raging insurgency since 2011. governments scarred by the as British citizens. even to those who never travelled to The Dalai Lama has been a beatings he says Experts say the policies fail to distin- Syria. A 35-year-old mother of six, stage. he endured while guish between hardened extremists who Runa Khan, was sentenced to five years controversial figure in China, push legislation in US custody. pose a legitimate threat to the West and in prison for posting statements and which considers him a separatist authorising new Begg, soft-spo- those who travel to Syria for other rea- photos to Facebook. The posts included who poses a danger to Tibet, the ken and small in sons, including humanitarian concerns images of a suicide vest and expressions country’s largely Buddhist region that has a long land border powers to seize stature, has long and an interest in toppling a Western of hope that her young son would one with India. passports. been a vocal critic enemy: Assad. day become a fighter. In its attempt to stonewall the Dalai Lama’s meeting with of the sort of post- Begg, for instance, was arrested in Security officials acknowledge that 9/11 brutality that February on charges stemming from his they are on murky ground when it the Pope, the Vatican may have erred on the side of caution. was documented this month in chilling travels to Syria in 2012 and early 2013, comes to prosecuting Britons for alleged But the message it is sending to the world goes against the detail by the US Senate Intelligence before the Islamic State even existed crimes committed in Syria. grain of the idea of freedom. Even South Africa’s refusal Committee’s report on CIA torture. But in its current form. In an interview in Ironically, by locking up people like to grant a visa to the Dalai Lama was because of Chinese his most recent detention has become his native Birmingham, Begg said that Begg, the government is actually silenc- pressure. The refusal, which is deplorable, came in the wake of emblematic here of what human rights he never fought, but he acknowledged ing those who could best rebut Islamic groups, Muslim leaders, terrorism working with some of the rebels that State propaganda, said Ben Ward, Jacob Zuma’s growing bonhomie with Beijing’s authoritarian experts and even some security officials Britain, the United States and the West Human Rights Watch’s deputy director regime. The Holy See has also urged the US to consider say is an overzealous response to the were backing in their struggle against for Europe. “It removes the voice of peo- closing Guantanamo Bay, the infamous military detention threat posed by European returnees the Syrian dictator. ple who might actually be most persua- facility. It is prudent for the Holy See to be sensitive to the from Syria. Nearly a year after his return from sive in directing young people away from fate of Catholics in China but its policies must strike a balance The threat itself is undeniable: Syria, Begg was arrested and charged violence,” Ben Ward, Human Rights between the need to be supportive of freedom and the welfare Thousands of Europeans have flocked with attending a terrorist training Watch’s deputy director for Europe, said. to Syria to fight the regime of President camp. The case against him collapsed WP-BLOOMBERG of its followers. The other side Quote of Get ready for drones the day HE potential for unmanned restrictions, which include that they fly operators. But the agency is still in the planes. Commercial drone pilots should aircraft — also known as their drones where they can see them, process of writing rules under which have adequate practice on the equip- drones — to make life easier is away from airports and below 400 feet. regular commercial drone flights could ment they are actually using, and they Ttantalizing, eliciting images of The number of near-collisions, however, occur without a special exception for should be up to speed on FAA rules The European tiny package-delivery devices zipping suggest that the FAA can’t adequately every operator. (One potentially inter- on unmanned aircraft, air traffic con- around town so UPS trucks wouldn’t enforce those rules on the thousands of ested party is Amazon.com, which is trol practices and how to deal with bad Union cannot have to. On the other hand, as The hobbyists in the United States. Aviation led by Jeffrey Bezos, who also owns weather. They don’t need to know how Post’s Craig Whitlock reported, the experts warn about errant drones strik- The Post.) The Wall Street Journal to land a Cessna. If the FAA doesn’t interfere in steps Federal Aviation Administration has ing helicopter rotors or getting sucked reported last month that the FAA is lean- make that clear, Congress should. received 25 reports of drones nearly into jet engines with disastrous con- ing toward a very restrictive requirement Meanwhile, the FAA should also find taken... within striking manned aircraft in the past six sequences. Meanwhile, flying drones that every commercial drone operator better ways to keep drones out of sensi- the rule of law months, often near airport runways. So for commercial purposes, whether to carry a traditional pilot’s license. tive airspace. It is already tracking down should the government crack down or dust crops, film television shows or take Here’s what should happen instead: operators responsible for breaking the against elements loosen up? In fact, it should do both. videos of real estate for sale, remains The FAA should finally release rules gov- government’s fairly simple restrictions, The FAA currently allows recrea- mostly forbidden. The FAA has granted erning commercial drone flights shorn of and it takes pride in its efforts to edu- that threaten our tional drone operators — hobbyists — a few exceptions to its prohibition, for the absurd requirement that operators cate hobbyists about the rules. national security. Recep Tayyip Erdogan to fly their miniature aircraft with a few example to some Hollywood camera must have hours of cockpit time in real The Washington Post Turkish President TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 11 Sisters come to the fore in Brotherhood informal deputies for women. The need to organise locally to avoid In some areas, women are elected to lead women’s shubas, arrest has allowed an unprecedented which are each responsible for dozens of usras, although women level of decentralisation in the hierarchical continue to focus on teaching girls how to be good wives and mothers and ambassadors for the Muslim group, giving women and youth followers Brotherhood in society. Some said moves were already a new freedom to act. afoot for women to join the Shura council before the crackdown BY LIN NOUEIHED the sidelines,” said Heba, a Muslim threw the group into survival Sister in Egypt’s second city of mode and that they would con- n homes and streets around Alexandria. “We won’t go back.” tinue to press for more power. Egypt, women are keeping Established by Hassan Al Banna “There are two things we insist alive a group the authori- in 1928, the Brotherhood created on... On the level of the organisa- Ities are determined to crush. a women’s division as early as the tion, we want to be represented They teach Muslim Brotherhood 1930s. strongly in the Shura and the values to children, organise its Eight decades on, it has fielded Guidance Bureau,” said Hefny, protests, preserve its networks, women in parliamentary elections an English professor and shuba and take an ever more prominent and a woman, Pakinam Sharkawy, leader. role in politics. served as presidential adviser dur- Divisions remain deep over The Brotherhood has been ing Mursi’s year in power. whether a woman should lead in retreat since the army over- But women are not permit- men, or could occupy the role of threw elected Islamist president ted into its highest office, the General Guide itself. Even women Mohammed Mursi in July 2013, Guidance Bureau. They take part who want reform say their role as launching a crackdown that has in internal elections at local level, wives and mothers is paramount. seen it banned as a terrorist group but can neither run nor vote in But the crisis has thrust change and thousands of its members elections for the Shura council, the upon Islamist women, wanted or jailed. group’s policy-making body. not. For many, the fight is personal. With most Brotherhood leaders Influential Sisters say that could Sitting in her husband’s office Khairat El Shater (second left), deputy leader of Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood, sits behind bars with other Brotherhood in jail or exile, women who have change as the leadership relies in Alexandria, Shaimaa describes long lived in their shadow have increasingly on women and youth members in a court on the outskirts of Cairo. how her life has changed since the been thrust into the vanguard as its links with society. arrest of her husband, rights law- of the organisation’s battle for “They made a council composed arrested, police appear more hes- giving women and youth followers University in the United States, yer Khalaf Bayoumy, in September survival. of women... and when they want itant to act against them than a new freedom to act. said the growing prominence of 2013, and her 16-year-old-son and Long accustomed to a support- to do anything they consult,” said male Muslim Brotherhood mem- “The men are mostly absent so women was significant, but it was brother five months later. ive role focused on education and Wafa Hefny, Banna’s granddaugh- bers, giving them freedom to join without women there are no pro- unclear if it could bring any evolu- Having trained as a lawyer social work, the experience of the ter and an influential voice in the demonstrations and preserve tests,” said another Sister based tion in the hierarchy. and then put off practising while past 17 months has imbued the movement. group cohesion through regular in Alexandria. “This is the truth “The role of women has been she raised her family, Shaimaa female members of the Muslim “This group started sit- meetings. and they have admitted it several driven by crisis not ideologi- has now taken on her husband’s Brotherhood, known as Muslim ting directly with the official in Protests have dwindled as times. They say without you it cal change but this could lead to caseload and is the main bread- Sisters, with new confidence. charge of women in the Guidance arrests mounted, but women now won’t work.” revisions in future,” he said. “The winner as well as carer for her two In a patriarchal and conserva- Bureau. This is present now as a take centre stage. In three Cairo Though women were instru- Muslim Brotherhood is in a tran- younger sons while attending to tive movement, it is unclear how link between base and summit... areas, Hefny said, an experiment is mental in keeping the Brotherhood sitional period.” prison visits and legal aid. far they can go, but for many, They are treating women now under way where women organise alive during a previous bout of Sisters say their role is already “The woman has lost her role there is no turning back. as the ones who can take the protests “A to Z”. repression in the 1950s and 1960s, evolving. Women are now elected as a woman, particularly as a lot “Our experience has shown that pulse of what can and cannot be The need to organise locally they faded into the background as to lead all-women usras, local of women from Islamist currents we can lead. We might make mis- done. This is an excellent step for to avoid arrest has allowed an pressure eased. groups that are the building didn’t think about working before,” takes but we fix them and move on women.” unprecedented level of decentrali- Khalil Al Anani, an expert in blocks of the group. Previously, she said. “I am one example of and that’s better than standing on Though some women have been sation in the hierarchical group, Islamist groups at Johns Hopkins wives of usra leaders acted as many.” REUTERS Iranian support crucial for Houthis Greece still several steps BY YARA BAYOUMY and MOHAMMED GHOBARI away from chaos ran has supplied weapons, money BY HUGO DIXON While the euro zone might be prepared, and training to the Shia Houthi as part of a negotiation, to vary the terms of Imilitia that seized Yemen’s capital reece is still several steps from Greece’s borrowings, it would not accept a in September, as Tehran steps up its chaos. Athens has entered a period write-off, or looser terms on Athens’ budget. regional power struggle with Saudi Gof political instability, which could Tsipras would not be able to blackmail the Arabia, Yemeni and Iranian officials lead to an election won by Syriza. This euro zone as a Greek bankruptcy would not say. radical left group’s policies might prompt trigger domino defaults elsewhere. Exactly how much support Iran has Greece’s exit from the euro if fully imple- Without a deal with the troika, Athens given the Houthis, who share a Shia mented. But for this to happen, a series of would not be able to access the bond mar- ideology, has never been clear. Sunni unfortunate circumstances have to occur. ket. A run on the banks is then possible, countries in the Gulf accuse Iran of First, parliament must fail to elect a new followed by capital controls. If Tsipras still interference via Shia proxies in the president. That could happen. A president didn’t change tack, Grexit would loom. region, something Tehran denies. needs the support of 60 percent of members The good news, though, is that the But Reuters has details — from of parliament (MPs) and the government chances this particular scenario will unfold Yemeni, Western and Iranian sources can only count on just over 50 percent to are slim. One reason is that Syriza might — of Iranian military and financial sup- support its candidate. well buckle when it sees the troika remains port to the Houthis before and after However, there is a slim chance that inflexible. their takeover of Sana’a on September Antonis Samaras can persuade enough Another reason is that, even if Syriza 21. MPs to switch sides to cross the thresh- was the largest party after a general elec- A senior Houthi official denied there old. There is also a small chance that the tion, it would not have an overall majority. had been material and financial sup- conservative prime minister himself will To form a government, it would need sup- port. But the assertions are still likely be replaced by a technocrat as the price port from one or both of two centre-left to reinforce Saudi, and Western, fears for cobbling together the majority needed parties: To Potami or Pasok. Both are pro- that Iran is exploiting turmoil between to elect a president. European, and wouldn’t agree to sign up to Sunni and Shia Muslims in Iraq, Syria, In either case, Athens could resume a programme that involved charging over A file photo of a gunman loyal to the Shia Houthi movement standing guard at the main Lebanon, Bahrain and now Yemen. negotiations with the so-called troika — the precipice. Riyadh has suspended aid to Yemen, gate of the old city of Sana’a. the European Commission, the European Indeed, Syriza might struggle to form angered by the Houthis’ growing power, Central Bank and the International a government at all, as the compromises while Iran publicly welcomed the the Revolutionary Guard, had a “few navy targets 40km away”. Monetary Fund — about future financial it would need to make to win over these Houthi victory. hundred” military personnel in Yemen There were also silencers, 2.66 support. Greece would have to agree to other parties would be hard to sell to its A senior Yemeni security official who train Houthi fighters. tonnes of RDX explosives, C-4 explo- tighten its 2015 budget a bit, continue with radical wing. said Iran had steadily supported the He said about 100 Houthis had trav- sives, ammunition, bullets and electri- structural reforms and accept monitoring In such a scenario, a second election Houthis, who have fought the central elled to Iran this year for training at cal transistors. of its economic actions. It would be easier would have to be called. The conservatives government since 2004 from their a Revolutionary Guards base near the A few days after the Sana’a takeo- to accept these conditions after a successful might then make a comeback — especially northern stronghold of Saadah. city of Qom. It was not immediately ver, Houthi gunmen surrounded the presidential election. if they ditched the unpopular Samaras and “Before the entrance into Sana’a, possible to verify this claim. National Security headquarters calling In return, Athens would receive a final replaced him with somebody like Kyriakos Iran started sending weapons here and The official said there were a dozen for the release from jail of eight Yemeni dollop of cash from its current bailout pro- Mitsotakis, a younger, more centrist leader, gave a lot of support with money via Iranian military advisers in Yemen, and crew members. gramme and a precautionary credit line who would then form a coalition with To visits abroad,” the official, who declined the pace of money and arms getting to They were freed, as were two sus- from the euro zone’s bailout fund. It might Potami. to be named due to the sensitivity of the Houthis had increased since their pected Hezbollah members jailed for also get longer to repay the money it has Such a scenario might actually be the the issue, said. seizure of Sana’a. planning to provide military training borrowed from the euro zone. With all this best outcome. Samaras is preferable to A second senior Yemeni security “Everything is about the balance of to the Houthis. in place, Greece could tap the bond markets Tsipras but he has been an erratic leader. official said “weapons are still coming power in the region. Iran wants a pow- Iran denied any connection with the to fund itself. His most recent error was to promise that in by sea and there’s money coming in erful Shia presence in the region that arms found on Jihan 1. However, the government will probably Athens would exit its bailout programme through transfers”. is why it has got involved in Yemen as Sana’a residents still can’t under- not be able to secure the election of a presi- — a move that frightened the markets and Iran, the first official said, saw vic- well,” said the Iranian official. stand how the Houthis managed to dent. Although the post is largely ceremo- so made it impossible to secure a clean exit. tory would be swift in Yemen, unlike Salah Al Sammad, a senior Houthi take control of their city. nial, the constitution says there would then This was a home goal, just as Greece was in Iraq and Syria, and “with not too adviser to the Yemeni president, denied Although the Houthis started as a have to be a general election. finally turning the corner after its terrible much expense”. Iran had provided arms but said small movement in north Yemen, they If Samaras won that poll, which would recession. A Western source familiar with Iranian backing was part of a shared gained strength by tapping into the be held around the end of January, he could Another Samaras mistake was to close Yemen also said the Houthis had been vision in “confronting the American grievances of Zaydi Shias, about a third then continue negotiations with the troika. down the state-owned broadcaster last year getting training and money. project”. of Yemen’s population. He would seek to scare voters into backing without telling one of his coalition partners. “It’s been happening for over a year. For its part, Saudi Arabia pro- Their march to Sana’a was led by him by painting a lurid picture of what a That lost him a chunk of MPs and, with We’ve seen Houthis going out to Iran vided “blatant” support to allied tribal fighters who exploited popular discon- Syriza government would do. them, probably the chance to secure the and Lebanon for military training.” sheikhs and parties in Yemen, he said. tent over corruption and the removal But it is unlikely Samaras will succeed. election of the new president. “We think there is cash, some of Yemeni authorities point to the of fuel subsidies. They also exploited Alexis Tsipras, the Syriza boss, has a solid The Ancient Greeks believed in Tyche, which is channelled via Hezbollah and “Jihan 1” as evidence of Iran’s support. divisions within the army, which largely lead in the polls. He has the best chance of the goddess of luck. Sometimes she brought sacks of cash arriving at the airport. The ship was seized by Yemen in 2013, melted away at the decisive moment. emerging with the largest party. good luck; sometimes bad luck. The numbers of those going for train- smuggling weapons from Iran to local “Most of the fighting is done by local If Syriza could implement its programme, Tyche is stalking her homeland again. ing are enough for us to worry about,” insurgents. people supported by people from the Greece’s prospects would be bleak. Among Political risk has shot up. The various the source said. The first Yemeni The Yemeni official showed Reuters a Houthis,” a Houthi fighter said. its populist proposals are plans to write scenarios and sub-scenarios have multi- security official said Houthi fighters breakdown of the cargo, which included With the Houthis now in control of off a chunk of the government’s debt and plied. One of these — a Syriza government had received training by Hezbollah in Katyusha rockets M-122, heat-seek- the capital, the airport and most of expand public spending. Both ideas would implementing its populist policies — would, Lebanon. ing surface-to-air missiles, RPG-7s, the port of Hodeidah, there are fears provoke a confrontation with the troika indeed, spell disaster. But it is not the most A senior Iranian official said that Iranian-made night vision goggles and of more overt support from Tehran. that would put Athens on a fast-track to likely outcome. And other scenarios are the Quds Force, the external arm of “artillery systems that track land and REUTERS bankruptcy. more benign. REUTERS TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 12 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MIDDLE EAST Israeli PM opposes Palestinian UN bid Tel Aviv not to accept any diktat on ending occupation ROME: Israeli Prime Minister The French text would set a Washington has not yet decided Benjamin Netanyahu yesterday two-year timetable, but for con- whether to veto or back the angrily rejected a Palestinian cluding a peace treaty without French-led UN initiative. bid to set a UN deadline for an mentioning the withdrawal of The US administration opposes end to Israel’s occupation amid Israeli forces. moves to bind negotiators’ hands a flurry of talks led by US top Paris is also hoping to seize through a UN resolution — partic- diplomat John Kerry. more of the initiative by not leav- ularly any attempt to set a dead- “We will not accept attempts ing the negotiations solely in the line for the withdrawal of Israeli to dictate to us unilateral moves hands of the US. troops from the West Bank. on a limited timetable,” the Israeli “The absence of a peace process But a US veto risks running leader said before arriving in Italy. is fuelling tensions on the ground, contrary to Washington’s avowed Amid a renewed drive to push so it is imperative to make rapid aim of a Palestinian state and the Israeli-Palestinian peace progress on a UN resolution,” said would anger key Arab allies — process to the top of the global French foreign ministry spokes- many of whom are much-needed agenda, Kerry and Netanyahu met man Romain Nadal. partners in the US-led coalition Zaman for nearly three hours in the US “It is vital to relaunch the peace against Islamic State militants. Supporters of the Hizmet movement of US-based cleric Fethullah Gulen shout slogans and hold copies of ambassador’s residence in Rome. talks as soon as possible and on a And Netanyahu said that “in newspaper as they take part in a demonstration a day after Turkish police began an operation targeting media The Americans are seeking to credible basis to offer some kind the reality in which Islamic ter- organisations close to Hizmet, in Istanbul yesterday. avert an end-of-year showdown of concrete political horizon to the rorism is reaching out to all cor- at the United Nations Security parties,” he said. ners of the globe, we will rebuff Council, which could place them US officials have said Kerry is any attempt that would put this in a diplomatic quandary. aiming to learn more about the terrorism inside our home.” The Palestinians have said they European initiative during his “We will stand firm in the face Erdogan says media raids a will submit an Arab-backed draft trip. of any diktat,” the Israeli leader text setting a two-year deadline There is a growing impatience said ahead of yesterday’s talks, for an end to the decades-long in Europe over the peace impasse which included a brief closed- Israeli occupation of their lands amid fears the Middle East risks doors meeting with Italian Prime to the UN as early as tomorrow. spiralling into even greater chaos. Minister Matteo Renzi. response to ‘dirty’ plot Simultaneously France is Several European parliaments Kerry also met the Vatican’s leading European efforts to cob- have called on their governments Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro IZMIT: Turkish President “not really an invitation to move yesterday that Turkey’s demo- ble together a more nuanced to move ahead with the recogni- Parolin and thanked Pope Francis Recep Tayyip Erdogan yester- further forward” with Turkey. cratic standards were rising. resolution which could prove tion of a Palestinian state. for “his engagement to try to day defended weekend raids EU foreign policy chief “This process is the planting of more acceptable to the US US officials told report- reduce tensions in the region.” on media outlets close to a Federica Mogherini, who met the seeds of the new Turkey,” he administration. ers accompanying Kerry that AFP US-based Muslim cleric as a with Erdogan just a week ago dur- said. necessary response to “dirty ing one of the highest-ranking EU “Those who try to get involved operations” by the govern- visits to Turkey in years, said she in dirty business and dirty rela- Five Palestinians ment’s political enemies, and was “very surprised” by his reac- tions with the hope of returning Three Israelis charged with told a critical European Union tion so soon after “constructive” Turkey to its old days are getting to mind its own business. talks with his government. the necessary response, and will held for planned Sunday’s raids on the Zaman German Chancellor Angel continue to get it.” torching Arab-Jewish school daily and Samanyolu television Merkel’s spokesman said it was Istanbul Chief Prosecutor Hadi attacks marked an escalation in Erdogan’s “in Turkey’s own interest to clear Salihoglu said on Sunday arrest JERUSALEM: Three Israelis The Shin Bet said Lehava battle with former ally Fethullah up any possible doubt over its warrants had been issued for 31 from a far-right group were teaches the ideology of the JERUSALEM: Israel’s internal Gulen. The two have been in open commitment to basic democratic people on charges of “establish- charged yesterday with set- late Meir Kahane, a far-right, security service said yesterday conflict since a corruption probe principles” following the raids, ing a terrorist group”, forgery and ting fire to a classroom in an US-born rabbi who won elec- it had arrested five Palestinians targeting Erdogan’s inner circle a in which 24 people including slander. Arab-Jewish school that has tion to the Israeli parliament in for planning attacks, including year ago, which Erdogan blamed top executives and former police Two former police chiefs, been a symbol of coexistence in 1984 and advocated the expul- a suicide bombing in Tel Aviv. on Gulen. chiefs were detained. Samanyolu’s chairman and the Jerusalem. sion of Palestinians from Israel The suspects from the West He accuses the cleric of estab- Thousands of police officers and staff of two Samanyolu drama Israel’s Shin Bet security serv- and the occupied territories. Bank were arrested in October lishing a ‘parallel’ structure in hundreds of judges and prosecu- series, one about an anti-terror- ice said brothers Nahman and Labelled racist and undemo- and November and included a the state through his supporters tors suspected of loyalty to Gulen ism squad and the other set in a Shlomo Twito, aged 18 and 20, cratic by Israel, Kahane’s group, woman who planned to blow in the judiciary, police and other have been reassigned since the southeast hit by Kurdish rebel- and Yitzhak Gabai, 22, belong Kach, was banned from politics herself up in Israel’s commercial institutions, and of wielding influ- corruption scandal emerged lion, were among those detained. to Lehava, a group that objects in 1988. Two years later, Kahane capital, the Shin Bet said. ence through the media. Gulen almost exactly a year ago. Asked whether he expected to personal or business relations was assassinated in New York by The five Palestinians from the denies any ambition to overthrow Erdogan signalled the purges “sabotage” from Gulen allies between Jews and Arabs. an Egyptian-American gunman. town of Atil, near Tulkarem in Erdogan. could continue, saying the judici- ahead of a parliamentary elec- According to the indictment, Violence in Israel and the the northern West Bank, were “They cry press freedom, but ary and some other state institu- tion next June, Prime Minister the men set fire to a classroom Palestinian Territories has surged also planning to blow up a mili- (the raids) have nothing to do tions, including the state scientific Ahmet Davutoglu told the pro- in the Hand-in-Hand school last in the past few months. Attacks tary bus and kidnap an Israeli with it,” Erdogan said, speaking agency Tubitak, must still be government Sabah newspaper month and sprayed anti-Arab carried out by Palestinians soldier, the Shin Bet said in a at the opening of an extension to “cleansed of traitors”. yesterday that the state had to graffiti on the walls of its court- have killed 11 Israelis, and 12 statement. an oil refinery near Istanbul. Hundreds of civil servants, “take precautions”. yard. Classes were not in session Palestinians have been killed, It added that there was a “high “We have no concern about including police officers, prosecu- “This is not an investigation at the time. including several of the assailants. level of motivation among terror- what the EU might say, whether tors and Tubitak scientists, have into journalistic activities,” he was The brothers, who live in a Last week a Palestinian min- ist militants” after the Gaza war, the EU accepts us as members been purged. quoted as saying. settlement in the occupied West ister died after a confrontation which in July and August killed or not, we have no such concern. Erdogan’s comments sent the Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the leader Bank, and Gabai, a resident of with Israeli border police in the nearly 2,200 Palestinians, mostly Please keep your wisdom to your- Turkish lira to a record low of of the main opposition CHP who Jerusalem, made no comment and occupied West Bank. In July, a civilians, and 73 on the Israeli self,” he said. 2.3905 against the dollar. has described the raids as a “coup were not asked to enter a plea. Palestinian youth was burned side, most of them soldiers. The European Union, which Erdogan has cast the bat- against democracy”, questioned More than 600 pupils from pre- to death by Jewish attackers. The Shin Bet said that Hamas, Turkey is seeking to join, said tle against Gulen’s “Hizmet” their legality. “These operations school through high school attend Three Israeli teens were killed by Gaza’s de facto rulers, and Islamic the media raids ran coun- (service) network as a continu- are not carried out within the Hand-in-Hand. Its student popu- Palestinian militants in the West Jihad planned to claim the suicide ter to European values. EU ation of Turkey’s “normalisa- frame of the law. These are opera- lation is divided equally between Bank in June. attack if it had gone ahead. Enlargement Commissioner tion”, a struggle to root out tions based on revenge,” he told Israelis and Palestinians. REUTERS AFP Johannes Hahn described them as anti-democratic forces, and said reporters. REUTERS

Activists in Juba release list of war victims Shabaab kill 10 Somali soldiers JUBA: From a 14-month-old and Machar, who he said had people to submit the names of — massacres, gang rapes and child MOGADISHU: Rebels from the Islamist Al Shabaab group attacked toddler to a 105-year old grand- “allowed their personal ambi- those they can confirm killed. soldier recruitment — that have a military base in southern Somalia early yesterday, killing at least mother: the first names of some tions to jeapordise the future of “It is a start,” D’Awol said, add- seen the country teeter on the 10 soldiers and burning three military vehicles, officials said. of the tens of thousands killed an entire nation.” ing that the majority named were brink of genocide. African Union and Somali troops launched an offensive this year that in South Sudan since civil war But no official toll has been civilians, and most of those were Half the country’s 12 million has driven Al Shabaab out of its last major strongholds. yesterday’s began a year ago were released kept either by the government, young people. people need aid, the UN says, attack highlights the challenge of halting guerrilla-style raids by the yesterday. rebels or the UN. Both Kiir’s forces and rebels including nearly two million peo- Al Qaeda-aligned group. With no official toll, South For now, the list contains 572 loyal to Machar have been ple who fled their homes from the “Al Shabaab attacked our military forces at 3 am” in the Lower Sudanese civil society volunteers names, with organisers appealing accused of widespread atrocities fighting. AFP Shabelle region, Somali military officer Aden Nur said. have spent months collecting, “They killed 10 soldiers and burnt two military vehicles (equipped) cross-checking and confirming with anti-aircraft guns.” the names of those killed. Sheikh Abdiasis Abu Musab, Al Shabaab’s military spokesman, said “This list, although a fraction the group was behind the attack and said 14 Somali soldiers had been of the total loss, reflects the dev- killed. Al Shabaab often cites a higher death toll than the number given astating human impact of South by officials. REUTERS Sudan’s year long war in which no one has been officially counting the dead,” said Anyieth D’Awol, who is organising the “Naming Those We Lost” project. “Peace remains elusive, mass 13 die as ship, fishing boat collide graves dot the landscape with civilians, both young and old, CAIRO: Egypt has ordered an investigation into an accident in bearing the brunt of the fighting.” which a Kuwaiti container ship and a fishing vessel collided in the The International Crisis Group Red Sea in an incident that killed 13 Egyptians. estimates that at least 50,000 peo- A statement from the prosecutor’s office said initial enquiries showed ple have been killed, while some the fishing boat capsized after it and the Kuwaiti ship hit each other diplomats suggest it could even be after the latter has passed through the Suez Canal. double that figure. The collision is at least the second such recent incident involving Fighting broke out in South vessels passing through the Suez Canal. In September, two container Sudan, the world’s youngest ships collided at the northern end of the canal, knocking containers nation, when President Salva Kiir into the sea and delaying traffic in both directions. accused his sacked deputy Riek The prosecutor did not name the ship or the company operating it, Machar of attempting a coup. but judicial sources said it was Kuwaiti-owned and Panamanian-flagged. The United Nations yester- It was sailing from Italy to Saudi Arabia, the sources said. day for the first time confirmed Kuwaiti officials were not immediately available for comment. that “tens of thousands of South The Egyptian military said in a statement that the Kuwaiti ship Sudanese have been killed,” was docked in Safaga port, 500km southeast of Cairo, while investiga- with UN chief Ban Ki-moon in People attend a mass in Juba yesterday to commemorate one year since the outbreak of the South Sudan civil war. tions continue. a statement condemning Kiir REUTERS TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 INTERNATIONAL www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 13

Iraq reports Nusra Front 2,700 missing since jihadist captures two onslaught BAGHDAD: At least 2,700 peo- ple, mostly soldiers, are miss- ing as a result of attacks by the Islamic State group in Iraq, Syrian bases the human rights ministry said yesterday. More than half of those regis- tered as missing by the govern- Most of Idlib province in rebel hands ment are soldiers who were at the Speicher base near Tikrit BEIRUT: Militants linked to gunmen” joined the twin offensive. which the jihadists captured six Al Qaeda dealt a major blow to Mainstream rebels had been months ago. Syria’s regime yesterday by seiz- battling to take Wadi Al Deif and “The number of missing from ing two key army bases within Hamidiyeh for around two years, Speicher base has reached 1,660, hours, giving them control over but despite repeated attempts had from Badush prison 487, in addi- most of Idlib province. failed to do so. tion to 554 from other areas, The gains also signalled another Charles Lister of the Brookings including 38 women,” the ministry defeat for Western-backed rebels Doha Center said the gains high- said in a statement. who were driven out of most of the lighted the rise of the jihadists in Badush is a prison outside the northwestern province last month the province. northern city of Mosul, which IS by the jihadist Al Nusra Front. “The nature of the opera- The wife of a captive Lebanese soldier protests for his release and government action, near burning tyres blocking has used as its main hub in Iraq. The Syrian Observatory for tions has served to underline the a road in Beirut, yesterday. More than two dozen members of Lebanese security forces are being held by Sunni The ministry said those num- Human Rights said Al Nusra renewed prominence of more Islamists fighting in Syria. bers are based on applications filed Front — the country’s Al Qaeda Islamically minded forces in Idlib, by relatives and subsequent check- branch — seized Hamidiyeh and with Jabhat (Front) Al Nusra and ing with the relevant ministries. Wadi Al Deif, the regime’s largest Ahrar Al Sham having played the “The number of missing is likely outposts in Idlib. dominant role in practically cap- higher than this,” ministry spokes- The jihadists advanced in turing the facilities,” he said. Syrian PM visits Iran for talks man Kamel Al Amin said. coordination with Islamist rebel Observatory director Rami He said some families who have groups Ahrar Al Sham and Jund Abdel Rahman said Al Nusra TEHRAN: Syrian Prime Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri, officials and members of the been displaced by the violence or Al Aqsa, the Observatory said, had used tanks and heavy weap- Minister Wael Al Halaqi the government’s website said. opposition. live in areas under jihadist control adding that a string of villages ons captured last month from arrived in Tehran yesterday Halaqi’s visit comes one week The visit also comes as UN were not able to report a missing in the area also fell. the Western-backed Syrian for talks with key ally Iran, his after Syria’s Foreign Minister Syrian envoy Steffan de Mistura relative. Al Nusra Front claimed via Revolutionary Front. country’s main backer in its Walid Muallem held talks in is trying to broker a ceasefire in He added that the ministry had Twitter it was “the only faction Its defeat of the SRF was seen civil war. Tehran and said the Islamic the northern city of Aleppo. asked the families of those con- that took part in the liberation of as a blow to US efforts to create Halaqi was accompanied by republic would back a Russian De Mistura briefed the firmed to be missing to provide Wadi Al Deif”, and that it was now and train a moderate rebel force the oil, industry, health and plan to end his country’s more European Union on his efforts on DNA samples “in order to identify “chasing down” soldiers. as a counterweight to jihadists of electricity ministers, state news than three years old conflict. the weekend and yesterday the victims who might later be found State television cited a military the Islamic State group. agency IRNA reported, without Moscow is hoping to relaunch EU said it backs the plan as one in mass graves”. source as implicitly acknowledging Within hours of taking Wadi Al specifying the duration of the peace talks for the war-torn of the few good options left in a According to Human Rights the loss. Deif, Al Nusra and the two other trip. country that would include conflict that has claimed more Watch, IS gunmen executed up to “The army redeployed this Islamist rebel groups also seized Today he will hold talks with meetings between government than 200,000 lives. AFP 600 inmates from Badush prison morning in the Wadi Al Deif Hamidiyeh, the Observatory said. on June 10, forcing them to kneel region and is engaged in fierce “They took 15 soldiers prisoner along a nearby ravine before push- fighting at Hamidiyeh,” it reported from Hamidiyeh,” Abdel Rahman militarily because the bases are on Until September this year, broke its silence on the September ing them in and setting fire to the the source as saying. said, adding that helicopters a road linking the central province Ahrar Al Sham had sought to blast, blaming “a criminal group” bodies. The attack on Wadi Al Deif, evacuated senior officers late on of Hama to Aleppo in the north. distance itself from more hardline with “international links”. Abdel The following day, they seized which began on Sunday, killed at Sunday, hours before it fell. Lister said the advance may jihadists in Syria. Rahman said this was an apparent the Speicher base and claimed to least 31 troops and 12 jihadists, the After Al Nusra and its allies pave the way for “a major assault But a September 9 explosion reference to Western intelligence have executed 1,700 Shia troops. Observatory said. moved in, regime warplanes on Idlib city”, which like most that killed its top leadership agencies. Rights organisations say the Speaking on condition of ano- launched 17 air raids against the Syrian provincial capitals remains “pushed the group to align itself Idlib was among the first prov- fate of hundreds of women and nymity, a source from Lebanon’s base, the Britain-based group said. in regime hands. more openly with Al Nusra”, inces to fall, soon after the March girls from the Yazidi minority Shia Hezbollah movement, which Thomas Pierret, who teaches The gains give Al Nusra firm Abdel Rahman said. 2011 outbreak of the armed revolt who were abducted by IS dur- had deployed fighters to bol- Islamic and Middle Eastern stud- control of much of Idlib province, “Now the two are fighting side against President Bashar Al ing an August attack is still ster regime efforts in Idlib said ies at the University of Edinburgh, limiting the chances of a challenge by side.” Assad’s rule. unknown. “more than 3,000 (Islamist) said the advance is important from potential rivals. Yesterday, Ahrar Al Sham AFP AFP

US, Iran resume nuclear talks in Geneva Egypt to try 40 civilians GENEVA: Senior officials from Acting Deputy Secretary of An eventual deal would remove academics, theologians, the greats, the United States and Iran State Wendy Sherman flew in sanctions imposed on Tehran and the leadership — are in favour resumed talks yesterday over yesterday to lead the US delega- But his government must sell of getting the sanctions removed,” in military courts Tehran’s disputed nuclear pro- tion, US officials said, while deputy any agreement to hardliners in the Rowhani said. gramme, a diplomatic source foreign minister Abbas Araqchi is Islamic Republic who are wary of Yesterday was the first time the CAIRO: An Egyptian prosecu- 40 defendants had been arrested said, three weeks after world leading the Iranian side, according any rapprochement with the West. sides met since failing to meet a tor has referred 40 alleged sup- in various incidents and were powers missed a deadline for to media in that country. “Some people may not like to November 24 deadline for a com- porters of the banned Muslim charged with inciting violence and reaching a deal. EU negotiator Helga Schmid see the sanctions lifted. Their prehensive deal with Iran on rein- Brotherhood, including nine looting, blocking roads and belong- The two-day discussions in will also take part in some of the numbers are few, and they want ing in its nuclear programme in women, to a military court on ing to a banned group. Geneva will be followed by a bilateral discussions, ahead of the to muddy the water,” Rowhani, exchange for an easing of crippling charges related to their role in They were also charged with meeting tomorrow involving the meeting of the full P5+1 tomorrow. widely seen as a pragmatist, told international sanctions. protests, judicial sources said, breaking a law restricting protest, political directors of the other five The meeting is not set to involve a gathering of officials at a Central The global powers and Iran as the state continues to crack which has been used to imprison permanent members of the UN foreign ministers. Bank seminar in Tehran. agreed to give themselves seven down on opponents. many of the leaders of the 2011 Security Council, Germany and Iranian President Hassan He appeared to refer to hardlin- more months — until June 30 — to Egypt expanded the jurisdiction uprising that forced veteran auto- the European Union. Rowhani yesterday said that he ers including senior commanders strike a deal, although they hope of military courts in October to try crat Hosni Mubarak from power “I can confirm that the talks would try to clinch a nuclear deal of the elite Revolutionary Guards. to have the broad outlines ham- civilians accused of acts ranging and ignited hopes for deeper have begun,” the diplomatic source with world powers despite opposi- “The overwhelming major- mered out by March. from attacking state facilities to change. said, without giving further details. tion from some quarters in Iran. ity of our nation — intellectuals, AGENCIES blocking roads. That followed some The Brotherhood was banned of the worst assaults on security a year ago, thousands of its sup- forces since last year’s overthrow porters have been locked up and of President Mohammed Mursi of hundreds were killed when police the Brotherhood. broke up two protest camps last The public prosecutor in the year. Top separatist shot dead in south Yemen Suez Canal city of Ismailia said the REUTERS

ADEN: A separatist activ- and activists said of a killing was shot in the chest when secu- serving five months for separatist ist was shot dead in south- Amnesty International called rity forces opened fire while try- activities, and had been preparing Four dead in Morocco storms ern Yemen yesterday as an “execution”. ing to arrest him, activists said. to take part in yesterday’s day of secessionists staged a day of Khaled Al Junaidi, a prominent Junaidi was released from action, witnesses said. RABAT: Four people have died in house collapses as new storms civil disobedience, witnesses figure in the Southern Movement, prison earlier this month after Amnesty called on the authori- swept across Morocco at the weekend, a month after flooding ties to investigate his killing, killed nearly 50, the authorities said yesterday. describing it as an “extrajudicial Wind and torrential rain battered a large part of the North execution”. African nation, with two people killed when three homes were “Yemeni authorities have an destroyed in commercial capital Casablanca. obligation under international law Emergency workers in the city of five million recovered two bod- to ensure that an independent, ies from the ruins but also managed to pull out one person alive, impartial and prompt investiga- authorities in the city said. At least four people were injured. tion into this killing is conducted, The MAP news agency reported another two deaths — a 28-year- and that all those responsible old mother and her two-year-old child — in Safi, 250 kilometres are brought to justice, including southwest of Casablanca. anyone who ordered the killing,” At the end of November, floods triggered by downpours killed at Amnesty’s deputy regional direc- least 47 people in storms a week apart in southern Morocco. tor Said Boumedouha said in a The resort of Agadir experienced the equivalent of an entire year’s statement. rainfall — more than 250 millimetres — in just two days. The London-based watchdog In July, the government said there were around 43,000 homes said five masked security officers nationwide in danger of collapse. ordered Junaidi out of his car, and one of them shot him. Saudi policeman killed in clash They then drove Junaidi to a nearby hospital and left RIYADH: A Saudi policeman was killed in a clash with a man him at the entrance, it added. armed with a machine gun who took three workers hostage near Most businesses and schools Riyadh, the state news agency SPA reported yesterday. in Aden were closed in response Security forces came under heavy fire when they responded to the to the call for the demonstra- hostage-taking on Sunday night in Rawdhat Sider, in the Mujamma tion to demand the secession of region close to the capital, it said. the formerly independent south. The gunman, whose motives were not disclosed, was wounded and South Yemen became inde- arrested, and the hostages were released, SPA said. Yemeni mourners carry the coffin of a member of Shia Houthi militias who was killed two days ago in clashes with pendent after the end of British The agency said a policeman was killed and another wounded armed tribesmen, during a funeral procession in Sana’a yesterday. colonial rule in 1967, before it along with a civilian in the shoot-out. AFP joined the north in 1990. AFP TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 14 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com INTERNATIONAL Kiev forces and Biggest festive ball rebels accused of torture by UN At least 4,634 killed in conflict

KIEV: The United Nations yes- “As law and order increasingly terday released a damning report broke down, so more human accusing Ukranian forces and rights abuses, such as killings, Russian-backed rebels of tortur- torture, abduction for ransom ing and indiscriminately shelling and forced labour, started to be civilians in the bloody conflict in committed by members of armed the separatist east. groups, supported by increasing Its global governing body numbers of foreign fighters,” said believes the eight-month con- the report. flict has killed at least 4,634 and UN human rights envoy Ivan wounded 10,234 people — although Simonovic said the guerrillas yesterday’s survey suggests “the were responsible for a larger actual numbers of casualties is share of the atrocities recorded likely to be considerably higher”. by monitors who were first dis- And it said the lives of 5.2 mil- patched to the ex-Soviet repub- lion residents living in the devas- lic during Russia’s seizure of tated region were deteriorating Crimea in March. further with the onset of winter “If I would speak about the and a complete breakdown of quantity of crimes and quantity local infrastructure that has left of other violations of international A woman takes a picture near a giant Christmas ball, part of festive holiday season decorations, in central Moscow, yesterday. The 11.5-metre (38- homes without water or heat. humanitarian and human rights foot) high ball claims a spot in the Guinness Book of Records as the biggest Christmas toy in the world, according to local media. The “situation is becoming law, the majority of them have extremely dire for the population, been committed by representa- particularly older persons, chil- tives of armed groups,” Simonovic dren and people in institutional told reporters in Kiev. care, many of whom are on the But UN officials also pointed brink of survival,” the United to “limited progress” by Kiev in Nations’ human rights office said. investigating more than 300 cases Uganda toddler abuse: Maid jailed for 4 years But the 27-page study was of indiscriminate shelling wit- careful to assign blame for the nessed since the start of the year. KAMPALA: A Ugandan maid 18-month-old daughter to the shaken. The court was packed just go to someone’s house and humanitarian crisis to both the Ukrainian President Petro was jailed for four years yes- floor. with family members of the tod- torture their baby and expect to pro-Western government in Kiev Poroshenko — elected in a snap terday for abusing a toddler in Tumuhiirwe is seen trying to dler, as well as journalists. walk out.” and the mostly Russian-speaking May ballot that followed the a case that shocked the coun- force feed the child, before slap- The child’s mother, Angela Family member Rose Zimulinda insurgents who rose up in April downfall after months of street try after a graphic video of the ping her hard. After the girl vom- Mbabazi, broke down outside the said that the child, Arnella, was against its rule. protests of a Moscow-backed assault was made public. its, the maid throws her facedown court after sentencing, putting physically well, but that they “The efforts of the govern- leadership — has promised to The 22-year-old maid, Jolly on to a hard floor, then hits her her hands over her face. would have to address her “long- ment to safeguard the territorial examine allegations of abuses by Tumuhiirwe, originally pleaded with a torch on the bottom. Her husband, Eric Kamanzi, term psychological consequences integrity of Ukraine and restore his troops. guilty last week to torture, but She then kicks the child’s face 32, told reporters the couple had as they come”. She said she wel- law and order in the conflict zone Rights groups believe that later the charge was reduced to and stomach before putting her shared the video with other par- comed the sentence. have been accompanied by arbi- some of the gravest crimes are abuse, to which she also pleaded entire weight on the girl’s back, ents “so they can take a lesson “We hope that these four years trary detentions, torture, and being committed by Ukrainian guilty to on Friday. and then drags her out of the from it”. will help her to reform and come enforced disappearances of peo- ultra-nationalist volunteers who Chief Magistrate Lillian room, apparently unconscious. The case has gathered wide back and be a useful person to ple suspected of ‘separatism and joined the fighting after taking an Buchan told Tumuhiirwe she had The video has been seen attention in Uganda, where many society, because she’s still young, terrorism’,” the report said. active part in last winter’s popular committed an “unjustifiable and or shared hundreds of thou- middle class parents hire maids to and be a mother,” Zimulinda said. The United Nations said the uprising in Kiev. inexcusable” crime. She gave her sands of times on social media. look after their children. Maids in The UN children’s agency guerrillas in turn were guilty Moscow also accuses the SBU a four-year sentence due to the Tumuhiirwe yesterday remained Uganda are often poorly paid, and chief in Uganda has condemned of creating a criminal state in security service — Ukraine’s “ruthlessness exhibited” on an apparently emotionless as her regularly live in the houses where the abuse. “The video of this baby parts of the industrial regions chief successor to the Soviet-era “innocent, helpless child”. sentence was handed down in a they work. being beaten is shocking,” Unicef of Lugansk and Donetsk they KGB — of abducting rebel sym- Worried parents, who installed court in Kampala. “It’s not for us to decide the head Aida Girma said. “Any control with the help of “foreign pathisers and detaining without a hidden camera to film the situ- Ugandan newspapers called the punishment for what she com- such act of abuse and violence fighters” — a reference to Russian charge Russian reporters cover- ation when they were at work, footage “spine-chilling” and “very mitted,” Kamanzi said. “We hope against children is completely crack troops whose presence ing the war. were shocked to see the footage disturbing”. this has set an example for other unacceptable.” Moscow denies. AFP showing the maid throwing their The child was left bruised and maids out there, that you can’t AFP

German protest Belgium ‘hostage siege’ may Gitmo 9/11 have been false alarm hearing BRUSSELS: Belgian police surrounded an apartment in the city of Ghent yesterday after reports that armed men were holding a hostage, but the incident may have been a false alarm, officials said. Prosecutors initially said that four armed men had taken cancelled a captive at the property in a working-class area of the north- western city, adding that there were no indications of terrorism. WASHINGTON: Court offi- “We are examining whether there was a hostage-taking,” said cials cancelled a two-day pre- Annemie Serlippens, the spokeswoman for the Ghent prosecu- trial hearing for suspects in tor, adding that reports of hostages were taken “very seriously” the September 11, 2001, attacks initially. She said that the incident — in which more than a dozen yesterday at the US prison in armed police officers set up a perimeter around the building — Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, a US appeared linked to drugs. The alarm was initially raised by a Army spokesman said. man who called police saying that he had seen “four men with The hearing, intended to exam- Kalashnikovs” taking his friend hostage, Serlippens told report- ine allegations the FBI tried to ers at the scene. “But so far we have no indications of the pres- infiltrate legal defence teams, ence of any Kalashnikovs or of armed people here,” she said. according to a docket on a Pentagon website. It would have been the 5 killed in shooting near Philadelphia first such proceeding since a US Senate report on CIA torture was NEW YORK: At least five people were shot dead early yester- released last week. No reason was day by a suspected gunman outside the northeastern US city of given for the cancellation. Philadelphia. The shootings, which ABC television affiliate WPVI Participants hold German national flags during a demonstration called by anti-immigration group PEGIDA, Judge James Pohl, an Army said were thought to have been committed by a male military vet- a German abbreviation for “Patriotic Europeans against the Islamisation of the West”, in Dresden yesterday. colonel, ruled in July that no con- eran, were said to have taken place at three different locations Thousands of opponents of Germany’s policy towards asylum seekers and Islam took part in the protest. flict of interest arose for defence in suburban Philadelphia. SWAT teams were called to a possible attorneys from the FBI approach- fourth scene in Pennsburg, it added. The Souderton Area School ing a security officer for a defence District posted a notice on its website that its schools were on lock- team. The allegations surfaced in down due to the police activity. WPVI cited sources as saying all April, further delaying a complex, victims — including at least one woman — were shot at close range. slow-moving case. Miliband outlines immigration policy Lawyers for accused September Britain to hold flight chaos inquiry 11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh LONDON: The leader of of exploitation. We must stop in Daily Telegraph. The document Mohammed and four other sus- LONDON: Britain is to hold an independent inquiry into a com- Britain’s main opposition party people’s living standards being concedes that Labour cannot win pects want Pohl to determine the puter failure at its air traffic control hub which caused chaos for yesterday vowed to crack down undermined by scandalous a “bidding war” with UKIP, telling extent of FBI contact with defence travellers last week, aviation officials said. The glitch delayed on employers who pay migrant undercutting.” activists to “move the conversa- team members. Mohammed and departures, diverted arrivals and led to the cancellations of dozens workers less than Britons in a Immigration is expected to be tion on” to other subjects. fellow September 11 suspect Ramzi of flights on Friday, with the chaos spilling into Saturday. Britain’s speech toughening up his immi- a hotly debated issue at the elec- A Labour spokesman accused Binalshibh were among prison- Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) announced the inquiry, saying it gration policy before next year’s tion in May as the main parties the newspaper of “taking only a ers who underwent torture by would look at the root cause, the response and whether lessons had general election. fight to stem the flow of voters few lines out of context.” the Central Intelligence Agency, been learned following a similar incident last December. Ed Miliband vowed that a to the UK Independence Party Miliband has been under according to the report by the future Labour government (UKIP), which advocates a hard- increasing pressure to explain his Senate Intelligence Committee. Outage blacks out US State Department would protect lower paid British line stance. position on the issue, particularly The report on the CIA interro- workers from being undercut by The latest YouGov poll pub- after the party only narrowly gation programme implemented WASHINGTON: An unusually severe power outage plunged the unscrupulous employers by mak- lished in this week’s Sunday Times held off UKIP’s challenge at an after the September 11 attacks US State Department into darkness yesterday, officials said. The ing this a criminal offence, as well put Miliband’s Labour neck-and- October by-election in a Labour said Mohammed was subjected power cut struck at 9am local time (1400 GMT), knocking out lights, as strengthening border controls. neck with Prime Minister David stronghold. to waterboarding, or simulated computers and phones. Emergency generators restored power to “When people can be exploited Cameron’s Conservatives on 32 He has already outlined plans to drowning, “rectal hydration” allow “essential operations” to some phones and computers, the for low wages or endangered at percent, with UKIP on 16 percent. deny migrants from the European and sleep deprivation. The 2001 official said. No special security procedures appeared to have been work, it drags the whole system Labour members canvassing Union access to benefits for the attacks using hijacked airlin- taken in response to the outage at the building, one of the most down, undercutting the pay and on the doorstep are being advised first two years they are in Britain. ers killed almost 3,000 people secure federal installations in the United States. The United States conditions of local workers,” he not to bring up the issue of immi- “It isn’t prejudiced to worry in New York, Washington and has the largest diplomatic and consular network in the world, with said during a speech in Great gration due to fears it could lose about immigration, it is under- Pennsylvania. The defendants some 70,000 people working for the State Department. Yarmouth, eastern England. them support, according to a standable,” he said yesterday. face possible death penalties if AGENCIES “We must end the epidemic leaked party document published REUTERS convicted. REUTERS TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 ASIA / AUSTRALIA www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 15 Cafe siege: Confusion, concern at the scene Australian Muslim groups condemn Sydney incident

SYDNEY: More than 40 of the siege. They replaced the Australian Muslim groups blurry footage that emerged at yesterday jointly condemned a 9.45am showing hostages pressed siege at a Sydney cafe in which against the cafe’s front window hostages were taken by an while holding a black flag. The armed man and an Islamic flag footage was picked up by Channel displayed. 7, whose Sydney studios are diag- “We reject any attempt to take onally opposite the Lindt cafe and the innocent life of any human whose morning programmes reg- being or to instil fear and terror ularly show a live feed of Martin into their hearts,” they said in a Place. It is likely that is why the statement. Lindt cafe was targeted. The black flag shown at a win- For several hours most pas- dow in the Lindt cafe was one sersby assumed that the police commonly used by Islamic State tape was due to a bomb scare, (IS) militant group bearing the and were frustrated that they shahada, or profession of faith in could not get to the bank nearby. Islam. It said: “There is no god but Occasionally a worried face would Allah; Mohammed (peace be upon hail a detective and whisper that him) is His messenger.” Man Haron Monis, identified by a relative was in the cafe. They The Muslim groups said the police as the hostage-taker at a cafe were directed toward a separate inscription “is not representa- in downtown Sydney. holding area. tive of a political statement, but Office workers were held in reaffirms a testimony of faith that lockdown in neighbouring build- has been misappropriated by mis- welcomed worshippers night, in ings until they could be escorted guided individuals that represent what their leaders said was a out by police. Some in the building An injured hostage is carried out of a cafe in the central business district of Sydney yesterday. no-one but themselves”. show of community solidarity. above the besieged cafe slipped “Any such despicable act only “In times of great adversity out using a ladder placed at the we shouldn’t have to be here. This counter-terrorism operation. on social media in response to serves to play into the agendas it is imperative that we remain first-floor window. shouldn’t happen.” The deputy police commissioner concerns from the Islamic com- of those who seek to destroy the calm, united and stand together,” By midday the crowd in Martin At 3.35pm, three men includ- Catherine Burn said officers had munity that the siege would pro- goodwill of the people of Australia Lebanese Muslim Association Place had swelled to 300, and the ing one Lindt employee ran from been in contact with the man mote another increase in racist and to further damage and ridi- president Samier Dandan said. rightwing anti-Islamic group the cafe. Just over an hour later, throughout the day and were attacks. cule the religion of Islam and The pre-Christmas siege of the Australia Defence League had put the two women followed them. using a “very, very well-tested Australia’s Islamic commu- Australian Muslims throughout Lindt chocolate cafe began yes- out a call on Facebook for its sup- The rest of the hostages — the system of negotiation”. nity has registered an increase this country,” it added. terday morning and triggered a porters to join them at the police exact number is not known, but The police source later named in racist or religiously motivated “Our immediate thoughts go to massive security lockdown in the line. One man tried to rile up police have said it is under 30 — the gunman as Man Haron Monis, attacks since the police raided the hostages and their loved ones. heart of Sydney as hundreds of the crowd by shouting that there remained inside. an Iranian refugee and self-styled Sydney homes in a counter-ter- “We pray for their safety and armed police surrounded the site. was no such thing as a moderate Police asked media not to reveal sheikh facing multiple charges. rorism operation in August. hope this matter is resolved At 4.56pm the crowd outside Muslim. the identity of the man at the Hostages reportedly called As the sun went down at quickly and peacefully.” Martin Place drew close as two Nadia El Mouelhy, from Sydney, centre of the hostage negotiations. three Sydney newsrooms to around 8pm, the crowd had Religious leaders across women dressed in brown Lindt wearing a purple hijab, disagreed. Footage from the Channel 7 news relay the gunman’s demands. The thinned to just over 100, mostly Australia called on their followers aprons ran into the arms of a “I am a moderate Muslim,” she studios showed a middle-aged Sydney shock-jock Ray Hadley journalists or sightseers who to unite and pray for a peaceful waiting police officer. Photos of told Guardian Australia. “If I took man wearing a bandana. claimed to have spoken to the had stopped off in the city after end to the Sydney siege. the women clutching desperately my headscarf off I would be just Police said his exact motives gunman himself several times. seeing 10 hours of rolling news Mosques, synagogues and to heavily armed police have another member of the crowd. It’s were not known, and that the In the late afternoon, the #ill- coverage. churches across the country become the standout images just stupid. So stupid. You and I, response had been declared a ridewithyou hashtag sprung up AGENCIES

Strip bars, drugs uncovered in China demotes 1,000 officials in graft fight BEIJING: Authorities in China use their positions for personal gain. conduit transferring their ill- In July, the southern province China Unicom for graft. Manila jail raid have demoted about 1,000 gov- Since his appointment last year, gotten assets abroad, and in of Guangdong said it had forced Zhang Zhijiang, the general MANILA: A raid on the ernment officials with relatives Xi has said that graft threatens preparation for their own flight”. out more than 850 “naked offi- manager responsible for network Philippines’ biggest jail yester- abroad who refused to return the survival of the ruling party. “Personnel departments cials” from their jobs. The prov- construction, was suspected of day uncovered drug lords “liv- home, state media said yester- Authorities had identified more nationwide have held talks with ince drafted a law in October “serious violation of discipline”, ing like kings” in secret luxury day, in the latest clamp down than 3,200 officials at county-level ‘naked officials’ and asked them banning such officials from hold- the Central Commission for cells with strip bars, a jacuzzi in a sweeping anti-corruption or above, with children or spouses to choose between accepting less ing important positions. In July, Discipline Inspection said on its and methamphetamines, the campaign. who have emigrated abroad, the sensitive posts or bringing their Wang Qishan, secretary of the website. The commission did not justice secretary said. The Communist Party leader- Xinhua state news agency, citing families back to China,” Xinhua party’s Central Commission for give any details of the investiga- Police commandos in full battle ship under President Xi Jinping the Organization Department of said. “Those who refused have Discipline Inspection, told inves- tion. In China, the term “serious armour and tracker dogs swooped has presided over the anti-graft the party’s Central Committee. been disciplined and personnel tigators to go after such officials. violation of discipline” can be used down on the infamously crowded campaign to shore up a ruling Xinhua said those officials, departments will monitor ‘naked Separately, the party’s anti- to denote corruption. It was not and corrupt Bilibid prison com- mandate shaken by suspicion that known as “naked” officials in officials’ on a regular basis in the graft watchdog said it was inves- possible to contact Zhang. plex before dawn to verify reports officials waste taxpayers’ money or China, use their families “as a future.” tigating a senior executive from REUTERS that drug rings were operated from behind bars. Aside from the methampheta- mine “ice”, police found 1.4m pesos ($31,000) in cash a strip bar and a jacuzzi, across 20 air-conditioned Abe pledges to revise “villas”, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said. “They are here to serve jail time but instead, they’re living like kings,” de Lima told report- constitution after poll win ers after the raid. Bilibid, on the outskirts of Manila was built TOKYO: Prime Minister for 8,900 inmates but currently Shinzo Abe yesterday vowed houses 23,000. he would try to persuade a sceptical public of the need to revise Japan’s pacifist consti- N Korea wants UN tution, the day after scoring a thumping election victory. Security Council to The premier, who was re-elected by a landslide in discuss CIA torture Sunday’s polls, pledged to pur- sue his nationalist agenda while UNITED NATIONS: North promising to follow through Korea yesterday asked the on much-needed economic United Nations Security Council reforms. to add the issue of torture by the “Revising the constitution... US Central Intelligence Agency has always been an objective to its agenda and to establish since the Liberal Democratic an investigation to ensure those Party was launched,” Abe told responsible are held to account reporters. for human rights abuses. “I will work hard to deepen The request by Pyongyang people’s understanding and came as two-thirds of the receive wider support from the 15-member council push for the public.” human rights situation in North Abe’s desire to water down Korea to be added to the agenda. Japan’s constitution, imposed by the US after the end of World War II, has proved divisive at US Marine charged home and strained already tense relations with China. with murder His attempt earlier this year Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who is also president of the was abandoned, with the bar ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), at a news conference at the MANILA: Philippine pros- of a two-thirds parliamentary party headquarters in Tokyo yesterday. ecutors yesterday charged a US majority and victory in a refer- Marine with murder over the endum thought too high. a combined 326 of the 475 seats, his big-spending, easy-money death of a Filipino woman, in a The conservative leader has crushing the main opposition policies, known as Abenonmics, case that has fanned anti-Amer- also said he wants reforms to Democratic Party of Japan. Their although critics said the record ican sentiment and tested close education that would instil slightly-improved tally of 73 did low turnout of around 52 per- military ties. Private First Class patriotism in schoolchildren not include leader Banri Kaieda, cent tarnished his mandate. Joseph Scott Pemberton used and urges a more sympathetic who fell on his sword yesterday. “We must go ahead with “treachery, abuse of superior retelling of Japan’s wartime Abe is expected to reappoint a Abenomics swiftly, this is authority and cruelty” against misdeeds. broadly similar cabinet after he exactly what has been shown his alleged victim, lead prosecu- His ruling LDP and its junior is formally named prime minis- in the vote. We have to respond tor Emilie Fe delos Santos said partner Komeito swept the bal- ter again by the lower house on to that,” Abe said, pledging to as she announced the charge. lot on Sunday with a two-thirds December 24. “compile an economic stimulus “We believe we have a strong case,” majority in the lower house of He insisted the election had package immediately, within delos Santos said. AGENCIES parliament. The coalition won been a necessary plebiscite on this year”. AFP TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 16 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com PAKISTAN / AFGHANISTAN Kabul seeks Islamabad’s help for Taliban deal New govt for closer Pakistan ties

ISLAMABAD: Afghanistan security establishment still con- has asked Pakistan to play a trols the Taliban, despite denial more ‘visible’ role in persuading by Pakistan,” commented a west- the Afghan Taliban to come to ern diplomat, who is engaged with the negotiation table in a move both Islamabad and Kabul. suggesting that Kabul contin- “I think reality lies between the ues to believe that Islamabad two extremes,” the diplomat added still holds the key for an elusive saying that clear Pakistan support peace deal. for peace talks in Afghanistan The request for Pakistan’s backed by practical steps could proactive role in a possible peace go a long away in addressing the deal, comes from the new admin- longstanding misgivings between istration in Afghanistan led by the two neighbours. President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Despite the recent flurry of Executive Officer Dr Abullah diplomatic initiatives aimed at Abdullah, diplomatic sources said. generating a better appreciation The change of government in of Pakistan’s limited influence in Activists of Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) party block a road in Lahore with burning tyres during an anti-government protest yesterday. Kabul, after a decade of rule by Afghanistan and its willingness to former president Hamid Karzai, facilitate the peace process, west- is seen as a new beginning for ern diplomats continue to hold the both neighbours to move away view that fears of a possible ‘proxy PTI anti-govt protests shut down Lahore from an acrimonious relationship war’ between Pakistan and India of mistrust to one built on mutual in post-2014 Afghanistan might cooperation. But that cooperation compel authorities in Islamabad LAHORE: Supporters of the to power was rigged. He wants stuck in traffic caused by the deployed in the city to avoid any appears to be hinged on Pakistan’s to keep their options open. party of Pakistan’s Imran Khan Sharif, whose power base lies protests. A doctor in Lahore chil- untoward incident,” senior police role in brokering a deal between Islamabad has publicly insisted shut down major roads in the in Lahore, to resign. Local and dren’s hospital said they received official Haider Ashraf said. Afghanistan and insurgents. that it cannot lead the peace eastern city of Lahore yesterday foreign observers, however, have a body of a newborn baby but the Khan has vowed to paralyse The Afghan president during his process in Afghanistan and has in the latest round of protests rated the polls as credible. cause of death was not clear. major cities around the country recent visit to Islamabad sought repeatedly said that it is ready against the government. The Punjab provincial govern- PTI leader Shah Mehmood as part of his efforts to topple Pakistan’s help in bringing the to play the role of a facilitator. Thousands of followers of ment, which is run by Sharif’s Qureshi denied the allegations, Sharif’s government. A lengthy Afghan Taliban to the negotiating A senior Pakistani official con- Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Pakistan Muslim League-N insisting that party workers had sit-in protest outside the parlia- table. His request for help stems tended that the country was doing (PTI) gathered at different junc- party, accused Khan’s support- not stopped ambulances taking ment building in Islamabad in late from the widely held perception whatever it could to help facili- tions on major roads in the city ers of reneging on an agreement patients to hospitals. August and early September led that Pakistan’s security establish- tate an Afghan-led and Afghan- and burned tyres, forcing the sus- to let ambulances through their Thousands of police were on the to brief violent clashes and desta- ment, because of its historic ties owned peace process. The official pension of public transport. barricades. streets to try to prevent violence, bilised Sharif’s government. with the Taliban, can still push also dismissed the perception Khan, a star cricketer turned Salman Rafique, health adviser following clashes at a similar pro- Khan has said he and his sup- insurgents to make peace with the that Pakistani security appara- politician, claims the 2013 gen- to the Punjab chief minister said test in the city of Faisalabad last porters will paralyse the country Ghani administration. tus enjoyed the level of influence eral election which brought that three people, including two week. “A contingent of 15,000 on December 18 if their demands “There is a strong perception that it once had over the Afghan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif infants, had died in ambulances police personnel have been are not met. AFP in Afghanistan that Pakistan’s Taliban. INTERNEWS

Rawalpindi Sindh plans ‘yellow book’ database on kidnapping to ban public KARACHI: The Sindh Police past 20 years. The data collection historical record, which spans extraordinary. Officials feel the Danawala believed, however, has started gathering details for the book has begun but the over tens of thousands of pages ‘business’ has seen a boost in recent that the trend has seen a decline transport on of kidnappers and cases of kid- officials admit it will take them of FIRs, court records, witness years. “Earlier, it was only groups once again due to a large number nappings for their database that several months to cover research statements and police files.” operating from rural Sindh or the of kidnappers being killed. will be compiled in their ‘yellow of this scope. They are collecting Kidnapping is a lucrative local groups were involved in kid- “Obviously, the criminal goes on metro bus route book’. data from all over Sindh. activity for the several gangs nappings,” claimed a director of the back foot when there is a massive Similar to the Crime “This is not an easy job,” claimed and militant groups working in Sindh Rangers Special Task Force, risk of life.” RAWALPINDI: Once the Investigation Department’s Red SSP Muqaddas Haider, the chief the province. According to police Najeeb Danawala. Even the officials of the Citizen- Metro Bus Service gets going, Book that contains details of all of the Anti-Violent Crime Cell estimates, approximately 100 to “For the past few years, kid- Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) all other public transport will terrorists, the yellow book will (AVCC) that deals with kidnap- 200 people are kidnapped for nappings increased after the mili- agree that there has been a reduc- be barred from Murree Road. contain details of all criminals ping cases in the province. ransom every year. The numbers tants and gangsters found them tion in kidnappings. This is decision the Rawalpindi involved in abductions in the “We have to go back to the of cases that go unreported are to be a lucrative business.” INTERNEWS Transport Authority (RTA) has conveyed to public transporters. They have been told that they will be allotted new routes for their Friendly meeting buses, wagons and Suzuki vans that carry commuters within Rawalpindi and to Islamabad via the Murree Road. Naturally, public transport- ers are alarmed at the prospect of losing their current, lucrative routes. A senior official of the City District Government Rawalpindi (CDGR), however, defended the decision. “If the RTA lets the public transport vehicles run on Murree Road, short distance pas- sengers will use them rather than the Metro bus. That would leave the metro buses running almost empty within Rawalpindi city, except for the Islamabad-bound passengers in them,” he said. “The government wants the Metro Bus to be seen as a big suc- cess and not the butt of criticism after spending billions of rupees Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev (right) with Afghanistan Chief Executive Officer Abdullah on the project,” he said. Abdullah during their meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council INTERNEWS of Prime Ministers’ session in Astana, Kazakhstan, yesterday. Death threat a CIA technique: Ex-Afghan envoy

ISLAMABAD: Mullah Abdul Salam Zaeef has written in his book that he was from Afghanistan in boxes. Zaeef, who had served as an Afghan handed over to the US troops at Peshawar “The Afghan national had told me he was ambassador in Pakistan during the airport days after he was picked up from forced to remain in a box for eight days,” Taliban rule in Afghanistan, while com- his residence at the posh F-10 sector of Mullah Zaeef replied when asked how other menting on a recently revealed CIA tor- Islamabad in late 2001. Then Pakistani offi- prisoners were treated at Guantanamo. ture techniques report has shared his cials insisted Zaeef had been handed over to He noted he had witnessed some pris- own heart-wrenching memories being Afghan authorities at Torkham border after oners, including al Qaeda suspects, uncon- detained for four years at the Guantanamo Islamabad de-recognised the then Taliban scious and severely beaten, and their bones Bay — US prison camp in Cuba. government. He was released in September fractured. Zaeef believes that it was not only The US military and security agencies 2005 after languishing in US detention cen- the CIA but all American state institutions kept hundreds of terror suspects including tres at Bagram, Kandahar in Afghanistan were responsible for the ill-treatment meted Afghans and Pakistanis for years and their and Guantanano. out to the prisoners. defence lawyers say most of them were kept “Depriving prisoners of sleep and keep- “I do not think the US administration had without fair trial and legal rights. ing them in solitary confinement were also any respect for human rights. They pursue “Death threats to me and other Guantanamo common techniques to force the inmates policies only for own interests,” he said. inmates were a routine technique of the guards. to share information. I could not sleep When his attention was drawn to con- They used to force us to give information to for a whole month,” the ex-Afghan envoy demnation of the CIA’s brutal acts by the interrogators. Once three gunmen and mentioned. President Ashraf Ghani, who has also sought two guards, holding big sticks, threatened to He went on to say that an Afghan national a report about Afghan prisoners, Zaeef said shoot and beat me if I did not reply to questions and the al Qaeda leader Khalid Sheikh the Afghan government is “helpless and no by an interrogator,” Zaeef said. Muhammad were shifted to Guantanamo one will listen to it.” INTERNEWS TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 INDIA www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 17 Upper House adjourned ‘Nirbhaya’ memory over conversion issue Uproar over Christmas Day school event NEW DELHI: The Upper Protests continued in the The issue is expected to be House (Rajya Sabha) was yes- question hour, forcing Ansari to raised in the House today as well terdayrepeatedly disrupted and adjourn the House for 10 minutes with both sides refusing to relent. finally adjourned for the day as and then till 2pm. In the post- Sharma told reporters later: opposition members continued lunch session, the uproar continued “It is about upholding the vociferous protests on the con- and opposition members said they Constitution, not the benevolence version issue and demanded wanted Modi to assure the House of the government.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi that such incidents will stop. A circular by Navodaya assure such incidents disrupt- On the government’s side, Vidayalaya Samiti under the ing communal harmony will not Jaitley, Parliamentary Affairs Human Resource Development take place. Minister M Venkaiah Naidu and Ministry to observe Good Though the government, which Home Minister Rajnath Singh Governance Day on Christmas asked the opposition if they were present, and offered to take Day kicked up an uproar in wanted a ban on religious conver- up the discussion immediately. parliament but the government sions or forced religious conver- However, opposition parties sought to clarify the essay com- sions, agreed to a discussion, the insisted that the prime minister petition being held on the day was opposition was not ready to relent should be called. “The incidents voluntary and no school had been Activists take part in a play in front of a mural depicting fictional character Priya, who is a rape survivor, in New unless Modi participated. that are happening are a violation asked to remain open. Delhi yesterday. The march was organised by the Apne Aap Women Worldwide NGO in memory of ‘Nirbhaya’, Protests started as soon as of the Constitution, and people The issue figured in both the symbolic name given to the victim of a gang-rape in 2012, on the eve of the anniversary of the attack. the House met for the day, when related to ruling party are doing Houses of parliament with mem- Congress leader Anand Sharma this,” Sharma alleged. bers in Lok Sabha coming near raised the issue. Communist Party of India- podium of Speaker Sumitra “We have given a notice for sus- Marxist (CPI-M) leader Sitaram Mahajan to demand a clarifica- Minister meets workers in Dubai jail pension of question hour. There is Yechury then said mere discus- tion from the government. a serious situation in the country. sion is not enough. “We are not a Parliamentary Affairs Minister HYDERABAD: A cabinet here. The minister also learnt an estimated 100,000 workers An organisation that calls itself talking shop. Discussion should be M Venkaiah Naidu told the House minister from Telangana yes- about the cases of some other from Telangana in Dubai, the a social organisation, has started followed by action,” he said. that the government has not terday visited a jail in Dubai, detenues and assured them of official release said. a controversial programme on Kurien said it is for govern- asked the schools to remain open where some migrants from the help from the Indian consulate The minister visited Sonapur ‘ghar wapsi’,” he said. The House ment to decide who will answer for an essay writing contest on state are serving prison sen- to get their matters attended to camp where about 20,000 work- was then adjourned by Deputy the debate, also asking if the Christmas day and participation tence for illegal stay. on a priority basis. ers from Telangana live. He saw Chairman P J Kurien till 12 noon. member was questioning the will only be voluntary and online. Currently on a visit to Dubai, The minister’s visit to Dubai jail their living facilities and inter- As proceedings resumed, home minister’s competence. He said no circular issued had Information Technology minis- came amid reports that several acted with them about their the entire opposition appeared Members from the Congress been issued to say that schools ter K T Rama Rao visited Dubai workers are languishing there and problems. united in the House as a notice and the Samajwadi Party then should be run on that day. Central Jail in Awair to know also in other jails in United Arab The workers face many prob- for adjourning the question hour trooped near the chairman’s The Christmas Day also hap- about the cases of the migrants Emirates (UAE). lems, including exploitation by was submitted by the Congress. podium, raising slogans. Other pens to be the birthday of former lodged there. Rama Rao, who is son of Chief agents and by some of the employ- While the adjournment motion opposition members were seen prime minister Atal Bihari The state government has been Minister K Chandrasekhar ers. “They face very difficult living was not accepted by Chairman raising slogans standing at their Vajpayee and the NDA govern- making effort to secure their Rao, met migrant workers from conditions. Non-payment of mini- M Hamid Ansari, who was in the seats. In the din, the House was ment has decided to celebrate release for the last two years. Five Telangana, who constitute the mum wages is another common chair, the government agreed for adjourned for half an hour, and it as the Good Governance Day. of them are likely to be released second largest group of migrant issue,” the statement said. a discussion. later for the day. IANS shortly, an official statement said workers after Kerala. There are IANS Tweeter did not recruit for Islamic State: Rajnath Sydney siege: NEW DELHI: Pro-Islamic media sites. He has denied hav- “Over a period of time Biswas and arrested on confessing that drive and is currently employed Two Indians State (IS) tweeter Mehdi ing recruited any person for started interacting with people he was a radical Islamist. with the company. Masroor Biswas was not IS,” he said in separate state- in the social networking sites on A court on Sunday sent him Biswas’ father N Masroor survive involved in recruiting for the ments in Rajya Sabha and the matters related to ‘Jihad’,” the to five-day police custody for Biswas, who was employed with terror group and his role seemed Lok Sabha. minister said. interrogation. Rajnath Singh the West Bengal electricity board, SYDNEY: A 16-hour hostage to be limited to putting mate- Rajnath Singh informed that Biswas was arrested follow- said Biswas has been arrested however refused to believe that crisis — the first terror attack rial on social networking sites, during interrogation, Biswas dis- ing a British news channel on under the Unlawful Activities his son has any links with the ter- in Australia — ended yesterday the government said yesterday. closed that more than 60 percent December 11 unmasking the (Prevention) Act and provisions ror group and claimed his account after police stormed a cafe in Making a suo motu state- of his Twitter account followers 24-year-old executive as a sup- of the Indian Penal Code. was hacked. the heart of Sydney where an ment in parliament, union Home were non-Muslims and a majority porter of IS through social “Through a Twitter account, he In Bengaluru, a senior police Iran-born cleric took some 30 Minister Rajnath Singh said dur- of his Muslim followers were from media and Twitter handle @ was disseminating information for official received a threat tweet people hostage and made sev- ing interrogation, Biswas, who the western countries, particu- ShamiWitness. IS and came to light in electronic Sunday, a day after Biswas was eral demands, sending shock- was arrested early on Saturday, larly Britain. Biswas was picked from his media in the United Kingdom,” arrested there. waves across the country. denied recruiting any people for “Biswas started closely follow- one-room rented house in the the minister said. The tweet from an unknown As police stormed Lindt the terror group. ing the developments in Syria, northeast suburbs of Bengaluru. He said Biswas belongs to a Twitter account (abouanfa16) Chocolate Cafe using flash gre- “The interrogation of Biswas Iraq and Afghanistan through Karnataka Director General of middle class family from Kolkata threatened Bengaluru Deputy nades and firing dozens of gun- has indicated that his activi- internet during his college days Police Lal Rokhuma Pachau had and did his electrical engineering Commissioner of Police (Crime) shots, several hostages — panic ties were limited to posting and and has been active in the social told reporters that Biswas was from Guru Nanak Dev Institute of Abhishek Goyal of revenge for writ large on their faces — reposting of pro-IS material on networking sites since 2009,” he found asleep by the police team. Technology in 2012. He joined ITC arresting Mehdi. fled with their hands raised his Twitter account and social said. He was detained, interrogated following a campus recruitment IANS past advancing heavily armed policemen. One of them was Ankireddy Vishwakant, an employee of Four fishermen software major Infosys who hailed from Guntur in Andhra killed for refusing Govt to boost women taxi drivers Pradesh and was recently granted Australian citizenship. to share catch “Thank God! This is a big NEW DELHI: The alleged relief for us,” said Ankireddy’s PATNA: A group of upper- rape of a woman passenger by father Ishwar Reddy at his house caste men shot dead four lower- an Uber taxi driver once again in Guntur town, about 300 km caste fishermen in eastern spotlights the risks of India’s from Hyderabad. Media reports Indian for refusing to hand over transport system, which fails identified the second Indian as their catch, police said. to keep women safe. One solu- Pushpendu Ghosh. The victims were killed while tion: Taxis driven by women for “Yes, yes, he has escaped. It fishing at a pond in their village women. is good news,” an elated Deputy in Bihar state, senior state police Last year, the southern state Consul General in Sydney Vinod official Jitendra Rana said. of Kerala launched ‘She Taxis’, Bahade said over the telephone, “They were killed by a group of a fleet of 40 pink taxis run by referring to Vishwakant. “Yes, it armed upper-caste Hindus after women, and fitted with wireless is over,” he said of the hostage cri- they refused to share the fish tracking gear and panic buttons sis. The police operation followed caught by them,” Rana said, add- linked to call centres. several hours of tense suspense ing that another victim had been Now the service has become when Australians remained glued “seriously injured” in the incident. a model for Prime Minister to televisions, and the Indian Angry over the killings, scores Narendra Modi’s government community in all Australian cit- of villagers halted traffic on roads to replicate nationwide, its chief ies prayed for the safe release of and set tyres alight near Paliganj executive says. “The Delhi inci- the hostages. town, some 55km from state capi- dent shows the need for ‘She Police had told Vishwakant’s tal Patna, demanding the accused Taxis’ all over the country,” P T wife in Sydney that they hoped be arrested. M Sunish said. to end the hostage crisis — which India’s low-caste Hindus, who ‘She Taxis’ has ferried 24,000 happened just before Christmas make up more than 15 percent people on about 10,000 trips since — within a day. They kept their of the 1.2 billion population, are November 2013. Demand so far Drivers from the ‘She Taxi’ service pose next to a taxi in the southern city of Kochi in Kerala yesterday. Last word. The chilling incident took often victims of violence from exceeds supply that as many as year Kerala launched ‘She Taxis’, a fleet of 40 pink taxis run by women, and fitted with wireless tracking gear place in Sydney’s central business upper-caste landlords. half of callers have to be turned and panic buttons linked to call centres. district and barely 400 meters away, Sunish said. from the Indian Consulate, which Petrol, diesel cut “I feel secure and the fam- Delhi, and her subsequent death. social activist Susieben Shah, structure will deter aspirant was promptly evacuated. ily is satisfied,” said Aswathy Tougher laws and promises of who started Priyadarshini Taxi drivers. Also located in the vicinity are by `2 a litre Sreekumar, 25, a technology better policing have proved inef- Service in 2010 in Mumbai. Now After the Uber incident the offices of India Tourism, State worker who has used the service fectual. India’s public transport it aims to expand to New Delhi India is stepping up support Bank of India, Bank of Baroda NEW DELHI: With interna- for seven months, after finishing is the fourth most dangerous in and the southern tech hub of for such training, an official of and New India Insurance. tional crude oil rates slipping work at midnight. the world for women, and night- Bengaluru. the Ministry of Women & Child Indian diplomat Bahade said towards $60 a barrel, state-run “Otherwise, I keep getting calls time safety ranks second worst, Another company, Sakha Cabs, Development said. But critics say that soon after the hostage crisis oil marketeers yesterday cut from my parents.” a recent poll showed. with 14 taxis in the capital, plans better security is the answer. began, the Indian consulate was petrol and diesel rates further Rising sex crimes have Women commuters face sexual to expand in nearby western “Government always resorts to evacuated. each by `2 a litre in Delhi, effec- prompted Indian states and small harassment and public transport Jaipur and in eastern Kolkata. knee-jerk reactions,” said Ranjana Sri Shanmugam, 56, said in a tive midnight. firms to launch taxi services run is seen as risky. Still, expansion is slow. Kumari, director of the Centre for telephonic interview that fewer Allowing for local levies, the by women. The trend grew after “The Uber incident reinforces Reluctant investors fear the Social Research. “Failure in law Australians were on the streets prices of transport fuels will December 2012 protests over that you are safer when a taxi tiny number of women drivers and order implementation cannot in Sydney, and there had been a decrease correspondingly in other the rape of a young woman on a is driven by a woman. People will brake future expansion, and be compensated by such meas- noticeable fall in the customers states, Indian Oil Corp said in a moving bus in the capital, New would be keener now,” said India’s male-dominated social ures.” REUTERS who usually throng his two res- statement here. AGENCIES taurants. IANS

Tuesday 16 December 2014 24 Safar 1436 Volume 19 Number 6281 Price: QR2

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Ezdan to raise non-Qatari ownership up to 49pc Move could bolster investment in domestic market

DOHA: The Ezdan Holding national economy.” proportion of non-Qataris from Group yesterday announced its Sheikh Dr Khalid recalled that 25 percent to 49 percent is in line extraordinary general assembly the Emir had pointed out in his with the Qatar National Vision approved to raise the percent- speech in the Shura Council to 2030. It would boost the financial age of non-Qataris ownership raise the ownership ratio of non- market and contribute in attract- up to 49 percent of the Group’s Qataris for shares listed on the ing investment, especially after capital. The meeting, chaired by Qatar Exchange (QE) compa- Qatari market has been accorded Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Thani bin nies, and that Gulf Co-operation recently the emerging market Abdullah Al Thani, Chairman, Council (GCC) citizens will be status. The fact that could help delegated the board of directors treated like Qatari nationals bring in more foreign investment, to complete all the necessary in owning shares of companies supporting the development of the procedures in this regard. listed on the QE. Such initiatives country and providing economic Ezdan Holding Group Chairman Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Thani bin Abdullah Al Thani addressing the extraordinary Commenting on the Assembly are aimed to encourage foreign opportunities to new institutions. general assembly meeting of the company yesterday. Resolution, Sheikh Dr Khalid investment. Ezdan Holding Group has plans said: “The approval to raise the Ezdan Holding Group CEO Ali to launch a number of major real percentage of non-Qataris own- Al Obaidli stressed that such an estate projects in Qatar over the development of malls business in host conferences, sports tourna- Real Estate Company. In this ership in the Group’s capital, in increase in the non-Qataris limit next year, led by Ezdan Mall Al Qatar. ments and businessmen through regard, Ezdan accommodates up accordance with the directives for shares of the Group enhances Wakra, where population grows Ezdan Holding Group projects an array of large-scale services to more than 80 thousand peo- of the Emir H H Sheikh Tamim the position of the Group in the increasingly. The Mall, which is feature enormous diversity, and the tremendous accommo- ple, including Qatari nationals, bin Hamad Al Thani to increase Qatari market. The decision, in being implemented according to including investment in the hos- dation capacity the towers enjoy. which is considered as the largest foreign ownership of shares of general, is a big step forward, scheduled plans, is spread on an pitality sector. The Group is one Ezdan Holding Group owns share in the real estate sector in the companies listed on the QE. which will have a positive impact area of more than 756,000 sqm. of the main poles that contribute more than 18,300 diverse real Qatar, which is a confirmation of This is a welcome move that could on the QE and the business sector Ezdan Mall Al Wakra is regarded effectively to the revitalisation of estate units, in Doha and other the leading importance of Ezdan bolster investment in the domes- in Qatar in general. as one of the most prominent the important sector as Ezdan vital locations such as Al wak- Holding Group. tic market and contribute in the Raising the ownership models of architectural and urban Towers contribute significantly to rah, which are run by Ezdan THE PENINSULA

QE index gains 3.11pc as oil slide pauses for a while Barwa wins QR750m contract BY SATISH KANADY largest country in the index, with 11 constituents and a total weight Mixed closing from Manateq DOHA: Qatari bourse broke its Insurance is fast-growing of 20.76 percent. Saudi Arabia is three-day slide yesterday and the largest country in the index, bounced back gaining 3.11 per- sector on Qatar Exchange with 11 constituents and a total in Gulf markets DOHA: Barwa Real Estate said cent on oil recovery and Qatar’s weight of 21.54 percent. The two it has won a QR750m contract strong economic outlook data. DOHA: Among the seven sector indices on Qatar Exchange largest stock in the index are DP DUBAI: Most Middle East from Manateq to build, operate Oil recovered more than a dol- (QE), the fastest-appreciating sector is insurance. Though the World of Dubai and the National stock markets became more and transfer (BOT) low-cost lar yesterday, before falling to five-stock insurance sector represents just 3.1 percent of the Bank of Abu Dhabi, which make stable yesterday, after plung- warehouses. $61.20 after the trading hours of market, the sector grew by 74.2 percent year-to-date. up 2.91 percent and 2.79 percent ing in previous days, as the Manateq (Economic Zones the Qatar bourse. Qatar’s updated Market capitalisation stayed concentrated in banks and financial of the index respectively. price of oil recovered slightly. Company) is a shareholding com- economic outlook released on services, which at 39.3 percent of the entire market, grew by 40.3 Dr Ashraf Gamal, Chief But fund managers said it pany established by the Minister Sunday had projected a robust percent year-to-date. The next largest shares of the market were Executive Officer of Hawkamah was by no means clear that of Business and Trade of Qatar. 7.7 percent growth for 2015. held by industrials (31.1 percent) and real estate (11.1 percent). said in a note to The Peninsula: any sustained recovery of Barwa is expected to undertake Qatari stocks appreciated the Mesaieed Petrochemical Holding Co, the newest stock traded, is “Investors have better time series stock prices was starting. the project within a period of 24 most in the region after the entire the one gaining the most year-to-date (220.5 percent), the updated on which they can base their Dubai’s stock index inched months. The lease agreement is sector indices entered green. Qatar Economic Outlook suggests. investment decisions. What we up 0.1 percent as most shares for 25 years, it said in a regulatory Market cap rose by QR19bn. QE’s benchmark index has outperformed broader global indices can say with confidence is that in the emirate gained. The filing to Qatar Exchange yester- Total trade value increased to such as the S&P 100 since November 2013. It has also performed the trends are encouraging as we market rose as much as 4.8 day. The Letter of Intent (LOI) QR1bn from the previous session’s better than other markets in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) coun- continue to see significant year- percent during the day before was executed on December 14, QR957m. Volume increased to 25 tries, apart from Dubai (up 38.2 percent year-to-date). Regional on-year improvements. The vari- giving up almost all those gains 2014 between Barwa Real Estate, million shares from 22 million. markets saw brief reversals in June and in October, when they were ous corporate governance codes by the end of the session. Qatar Ministry of Economy & QNB, International Islamic, struck by commodity-market volatility, given the substantial pres- issued by the region’s regulators Abu Dhabi and Oman Commerce, and Manateq. Doha Bank and Barwa Real ence of energy-focused companies, tapering gains. and corporate governance centres also gave up all their intra- This project aims at increas- estate were among the top gain- Both the trailing price-to-earnings ratio (17.5) and the price- in the last few years have played a day gains and closed down ing the presence of Barwa in the ers. QNB rose by 5.28 percent as to-book ratio (2.7) of the QE Index had the best and second-best key role in these improvements.” 0.7 percent and 0.9 percent local Qatari market, and diversity International Islamic surged by performance among GCC markets. THE PENINSULA “Companies are now seeing respectively. its investments in line with the 5.20 percent. Doha Bank gained the value of better disclosure Saudi Arabia’s benchmark, nature of its business and activi- 4.37 percent and Al Rayan edged jumped 5.41 percent. Developer percent and Consumer Goods and many of them are striving on the other hand, underper- ties. Additionally, this project is 4 percent up. UDC gained 2.40 percent, after soared 4.61 percent. Industrials to adopt international best prac- formed the region and dropped expected to reinforce Barwa’s Barwa Real Estate, which tumbling 9.98 percent on Sunday. rose by 2.76 percent. tices. We are equally encouraged 2.6 percent as an initial recov- financial position, through the announced winning a QR750m Banking and Consumer Goods After its annual rebalancing, by the index performance over ery gave way to a fresh sell-off income generated from the oper- contract from Qatar’s Economic index appreciated the most. the S&P/Hawkamah ESG Pan the years”. across the board. REUTERS ating activities for 25 years. Zones Company or Manateq, Banking stocks surged 4.31 Arab Index put Qatar as its second THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA

BT opts for EE Alibaba’s China call irks Taiwan youth

over O2 for TAIPEI: Anti-Beijing protesters investors!” were held back by police joining Alibaba or Alibaba’s business chanted outside a high-level busi- barricades outside the two-day forum. ecosystems,” said Ma. “The theme $19.6bn UK deal ness meeting in Taiwan yesterday One was pushed to the ground as of the forum is transformation and where the founder of China’s e-com- he tried to break through police lines upgrade, but (this can be done) only LONDON: BT has entered merce giant Alibaba called on the and four protesters were taken away, if everybody upgrades their mindset exclusive talks with the island’s youth to start businesses on but later released. and hands over the future to young owners of EE for a poten- the mainland. “The summit is a joint effort by people.” tial £12.5bn ($19.6bn) deal to Trade with China is a particularly Beijing and the rich and the powerful He also urged Taiwan’s small busi- give the former UK state tel- sensitive topic as fears grow over the of the two sides to decide the future of nesses to sell their products to the ecoms firm the top position mainland’s increased influence on Taiwan’s economy. Taiwan is a demo- mainland using Hangzhou-based in mobile as well as fixed line Taiwan — a factor which contributed cratic country, they have no right to do Alibaba as a platform. broadband services. to the ruling Beijing-friendly party’s that,” said Lai Chung-chiang, spokes- Ma, a former English teacher, BT had been in competing worst-ever polls defeat at recent local man for the group. started Alibaba in his apartment in talks with both the Spanish elections in Taiwan. Senior China envoy Chen Deming, 1999. He has seen his fortune balloon group Telefonica’s rival mobile Alibaba founder Jack Ma, who who was also at the business meeting, after a record-breaking $25 billion ini- firm O2 and EE’s owners, recently became Asia’s richest man, has been dogged by protesters during tial public offering on the New York Orange and Deutsche Telekom, was addressing business leaders from his tour. But Ma, 50, encouraged young Stock Exchange in September. putting the 168-year-old fixed China and Taiwan to tie in with an people to “reach out” to the mainland Young people and small businesses line firm a strong position in eight-day visit by a top Chinese envoy. and Alibaba itself. are particularly incensed by trade negotiating for a return to the Dozens of pro-independence activ- “I welcome those young people deals between Taiwan and China consumer mobile market after Jack Ma, the founder of the Alibaba group, speaks during the ists chanting “Chinese communists from Taiwan who would like to start that they feel have been agreed in 13 years away. REUTERS back to China!” and “Chinese com- up their businesses in the main- secret and not benefited the ordinary 2014 Cross-Strait CEO Summit in Taipei yesterday. munists are coming to trap Taiwan land to reach out to Alibaba, either Taiwanese public. AFP TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 22 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS BPG to manage Strike hits Amazon as Obi Mobiles brand in EMEA festive orders peak DOHA: Obi Mobiles, the new technology brand co-founded by veteran marketer and former Workers to strike for three days over pay in Germany Apple CEO John Sculley, has appointed the BPG Group to BERLIN: More than 2,000 Amazon itself said customers across Germany’s mail order and manage and effectively intro- Amazon staff at German ware- could order up until midnight on retail industry. duce the brand to the highly houses went on strike yes- December 21 to get gifts in time for Amazon has repeatedly rejected smartphone savvy Europe, terday to press demands for Christmas, or even on December the union’s demands, saying it the Middle East and Africa better pay and conditions as the 23 or 24 if they pay for express regards warehouse staff as logis- (EMEA) market. online retailer races to ensure delivery. “We deliver reliably,” a tics workers and that they receive Following successful launches in Christmas orders are delivered spokeswoman said, adding that above-average pay by the standards India and most recently the United on time. only a small minority of workers of that industry. Arab Emirates, the technology Labour union Verdi said almost had joined the strikes, with around The US company has previously company has now engaged with the 2,300 workers joined the action at 19,000 employees working normally. said the long-running dispute has Dubai-headquartered BPG Group five of Amazon’s nine distribution Last year, Amazon orders in not affected deliveries as the vast for creative advertising and media centres in Germany, and that the Germany peaked on December 15, majority of workers in Germany planning and buying services. action would be extended to a sixth when customers bought 4.6 million have not joined the strikes and it Through its specialist busi- today — the most warehouses hit items — or 53 per second. can draw on a European network nesses BPG bates and BPG by a strike in the long-running dis- Verdi has organised frequent of 28 warehouses in seven coun- Maxus, the agency will create pute. The walkouts at the six cen- strikes at Amazon since May 2013 tries. It employs almost 10,000 staff regionally relevant campaigns tres are set to run until the end of as it seeks to force the retailer to at its warehouses in Germany, its to tell the Obi Mobiles story and tomorrow’s late shift and Verdi said raise pay for workers at its distri- second-biggest market behind the reinforce their core brand essence A Verdi union scarf is seen outside the Amazon logistics centre in Graben delays to deliveries could not be bution centres in accordance with United States, as well as more than of “Whoever You Are”. ruled out as a result of the strikes. collective bargaining agreements 10,000 seasonal workers. REUTERS near Augsburg in Germany yesterday. Amit Rupchandani, Managing Director for the Mena at Obi Mobiles, said: “We needed to find a communications partner who had the ideas, innovation, creativity and understanding of our business to help us achieve our ambitious Rouble tumbles past 60 per dollar on oil slump growth strategy. In BPG Group, we have found a partner with MOSCOW: The rouble tumbled percent weaker at 60.7205 by 5:34 that the economy is entering a money, even without sanctions.” since November 30, rouble bonds whom we can confidently move past 60 for the first time yester- pm in Moscow, climbed to a six- recession. Industrial output fell The economy of the world’s slid 21 percent, according to the forward and bring our products day as traders tested Russia’s year high. The yield on 10-year the most in more than a year in largest energy exporter is set to Bloomberg Emerging Market to a smartphone hungry market willingness to defend the cur- government bonds rose 11 basis November, data showed. shrink 0.8 percent in 2015, the Local Sovereign Index. in the weeks and months ahead.” rency amid an oil slump that’s points to 13.11 percent, the most “To a large extent it’s a foreign government said this month, in Russia is set to register $125bn Commenting on the new part- pushing the economy toward since 2009. outflow, triggered by a recon- what would be its first reces- of capital outflows in 2014, the nership with Obi, BPG Group recession. Traders are pressing the Bank sideration of Russia’s long-term sion since 2009. The rouble has most since 2008, according to CEO Avi Bhojani said: “As one of The rouble weakened as much of Russia to buy more rouble to prospects,” Dmitry Dudkin, the retreated 46 percent this year, Economy Ministry forecasts and the longest established and larg- as 5 percent to 61.25 per dollar, limit a selloff that has wiped out head of fixed-income research the most among global curren- central-bank data. est marketing solutions groups in pushing the Bank of Russia to 19 percent of the currency’s value at Uralsib Financial Corp. in cies after Ukraine’s hryvnia. Policymakers failed to stop the the Mena region, BPG Group is sell foreign exchange to stem the this month. Oil’s slide toward Moscow, said by email. “People Bonds and stocks are also rouble’s depreciation this month ideally geared to helping this new, slide, according to BCS Financial $60 a barrel in London and sanc- start pricing a long period of low underperforming developing- with more than $6bn of interven- innovative and exciting mobile Group and MDM Bank. Three- tions over the conflict in Ukraine oil prices. And in these circum- country peers this month. While tions and a 100 basis-point inter- brand make a dynamic and last- month implied volatility for are undermining confidence in stances, Russia doesn’t look like the dollar-denominated RTS est-rate increase. ing impact.” the currency, which traded 4.2 Russian assets as evidence mounts a place where one should invest Index has declined 24 percent WP-BLOOMBERG THE PENINSULA

Women leaders Chevron may pull out of debate financial AirAsia X confirms order of 55 career issues Airbus A330Neos for $15bn $10bn shale gas deal

DOHA: The challenges facing PARIS: Malaysian low-cost KIEV: US energy major the Ukrainian government our women who wish to pursue a carrier AirAsia X confirmed Chevron plans to withdraw response. Therefore it is prema- career in finance and accounting yesterday its order of 55 long- Boeing wins aircraft order from a $10bn shale gas deal with ture for us to comment.” in Qatar were debated by a senior haul A330Neo passenger planes Kiev, a senior Ukrainian presi- The agreement had been panel of finance professionals and from Airbus at a list price of dential official said yesterday. designed to unfold slowly over 50 business executives at an event $15bn, in what is the biggest sin- from new Canadian airline Ukraine signed a shale gas years, with an initial investment organised by the Association of gle order for the line of aircraft. NEW YORK: US aerospace giant Boeing yesterday announced production-sharing agreement by Chevron in the first two or Chartered Certified Accountants Since signing an agreement an order for five 737 MAX 7 aircraft from Jetlines, a new with Chevron amid great fanfare three years of $350m for explo- (ACCA)and Women in Finance to purchase 50 of the new-gen- Canadian discount airline set to launch next year. The order has in November 2013, just months ration work. and Accounting Forum, eration A330s in July, AirAsia a list price of $438m, and Jetlines has options to buy an addi- before mass protests in Kiev The deal to develop the Olesska Qatar(WIFA) in Doha. More X has added five more planes tional 16 of the aircraft, Boeing said. ousted former president Viktor field in western Ukraine followed than 75 finance professionals to its order, the group said in a “Boeing is proud to partner with Jetlines as it begins a jour- Yanukovich, plunging the country a similar shale gas agreement attended the event, sponsored statement. ney to offer low airfares to passengers across Canada,” said into a major crisis with Russia. with Royal Dutch Shell — both by Deloitte Qatar, PWC Qatar, Airbus will begin delivering the Brad McMullen, vice president of North America Sales, Boeing “There is information that they keystone projects for Ukraine’s KPMG Qatar and Qatar General fleet in 2018, AirAsia X said. Commercial Airplanes, in a statement. Privately-owned Jetlines (Chevron) are planning this deci- bid to lessen its energy depend- Insurance and Re-Insurance The Malaysian carrier is now plans to begin domestic Canadian air service in mid-2015 from a sion,” Valeriy Chaliy told journal- ence on Russia with whom it is Qatar. Airbus’s biggest customer for the base at the Vancouver International Airport, addressing what it said ists, referring to a report by local embroiled in a dispute over gas Buthaina Al Ansari, Senior A330 family of aircraft, having is “currently an unserved market of price-sensitive customers in media that Chevron had told the prices and unpaid debts. Director HR, Ooredoo was the already ordered 91 of them to Canada.” Jetlines said it intends to select routes which avoid direct government it was pulling out of The Shell deal could also be guest of honour. “Women need to date. “This latest deal with Airbus competition with currently operating airlines where possible, and the deal. under threat as the gas deposit brand themselves and have their will enable AirAsia X to consoli- focus on cost discipline in order to keep operating costs low. AFP Chaliy declined to give further intended for development is own identity,” she said. date its growth rate in 2015-2017 details. close to the eastern territories Hilda Mulock Houwer, Partner before ramping up deliveries Local media said a move by the now controlled by pro-Russian and Global Head Advisory, KPMG from 2018 onwards,” said Tony of comfort.” The A330Neo is an The former record industry first post-Yanukovich government separatists. said: “Building strong, mutually Fernandes, co-founder and direc- updated version of Airbus’s wide- executive quickly turned the air- to increase taxes for energy com- Earlier this year, Chevron said supportive professional and per- tor of the company. body medium-haul jet with fuel- line around with his no-frills, low- panies lay at the root of Chevron’s the firm was still interested in the sonal relationships, will always “The A330 has proven itself to saving engines. fare formula. Since then, it has decision. Ukrainian shale gas project, but provide a solid foundation for a be exactly the right aircraft for AirAsia X is the long-haul recorded spectacular success and Chevron in Kiev refused to com- since then the situation in eastern successful career and networks like our business model, combining and low-cost affiliate of AirAsia, aggressive growth at the expense ment on the report. A London- Ukraine has deteriorated, claim- WIFA provide a great opportunity low operating costs, long-range which was a failing carrier in 2001 of national flag carrier Malaysia based spokesperson for Chevron ing more than 4,700 lives. to do this.” THE PENINSULA flying capability and high levels when Fernandes acquired it. Airlines. AFP said: “We have just delivered to REUTERS

European Commissioner in Greece Australian budget deficit set to balloon to $33.2bn

SYDNEY: Australia’s budget have cost the budget more than economic outlook since the budget deficit is forecast to balloon Aus$10.6bn over the (four years are driven by the sharper than to Aus$40.4bn ($33.2bn) this of) forward estimates, keep- expected fall in the terms of financial year as the govern- ing debt and interest payments trade, including significant falls ment struggles with a sharp higher for longer.” in prices of iron ore and coal, and slump in commodity prices, Australia’s economy has enjoyed weaker wage growth,” it said. Treasurer Joe Hockey said more than 20 years of economic “Accordingly, nominal GDP yesterday. growth but the resources-driven growth in 2014-15 is expected to In the national budget released economy is transitioning out of be weaker than forecast at budget, in May, the government forecast a an unprecedented mining boom. at 1.5 percent. This would be the Aus$29.8bn deficit for 2014-15, but The conservative government weakest nominal GDP growth in it revised the figure yesterday, cit- of Prime Minister Tony Abbott a financial year in over 50 years.” ing lower tax revenues and delays slashed spending in its first Unemployment, currently at a in passing legislation. “Primarily budget in May, but scores of cost- 12-year high of 6.3 percent, would as a result of the collapse in iron cutting measures remain stalled also likely climb to 6.5 percent ore prices by over 30 percent in the upper house Senate amid and remain there until mid-2016, and weaker than expected wage disquiet that they were too harsh. the review said. growth, tax receipts have been The government said overall The mid-year outlook said revised down by Aus$31.6bn,” the the outlook for real GDP was that an underlying cash deficit European Commissioner for Economics, Taxation and Customs Pierre Moscovici (front right) and Greece’s government said in its mid-year unchanged and forecast to grow of Aus$40.4bn was now expected Finance Minister Gikas Hardouvelis (front left) exit the Maximos mansion after a meeting with Greek Prime economic update. at 2.5 percent in 2014-15, before for the 2014-15 financial year, the Minister Antonis Samaras in Athens yesterday to discuss economy. “Delays in passing legislation increasing to 3 percent in 2015-16. equivalent of 2.5 percent of GDP. and negotiations with the Senate “However, the changes to the AFP TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 23 Al Emadi Enterprises decorates AL HAZM project buildings by the largest Qatari ag The flag, prepared by Al Emadi Enterprises, has width of 150 meters and length of 16 meters is spread over the front face of the highest building of AL HAZM project

l Emadi Enterprises has decorated AL flag covering a building and can be seen flags, and this year we decided to make it national day in AL HAZM project which is a HAZM project buildings by the largest from a distance. Since eight years ago, the largest flag in Qatar said Mohammed luxury tourism destination in Qatar, where AQatari flag. The flag, prepared by Al Al Emadi Enterprise has began to decorate Al Emadi, CEO of the company. Nothing the employees of the company will come Emadi Enterprises, has width of 150 meters its buildings with Qatari flag to mark the more beautiful than seeing the Qatari flag together to celebrate this day, added Al and length of 16 meters is spread over the national day. As we are preparing the decorating buildings in this very special Emadi. The tent will host different cultural front face of the highest building of AL national day festivities, we feel honoured day for Qatar said Al Emadi. The company and folk activities to reflect the Qatari HAZM project, making it the largest Qatari to decorate all of our buildings with Qatari will set up a traditional tent to celebrate the traditions and culture. Mohammed Al Emadi, CEO TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 24 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Japan business New EU insurance rules trigger deals confidence Need for greater risk diversification could spur mergers; small firms seen as targets down in Dec LONDON/FRANKFURT: Stress tests unveiled by EU insur- said Martin Membery, partner at Netherlands seen as the most said Chesnara’s chief executive, New, stricter capital rules for ance watchdog EIOPA this month law firm Sidley Austin in London, likely to contract. Graham Kettleborough. quarter: BoJ Europe’s insurers could spur showed that 14 percent of compa- pointing out that merging could Dealmaker Clive Cowdery, The Solvency II rules are takeovers and consolidation nies would fall short of a key sol- allow insurers to diversify the founder of the insurer that became compounding challenges which TOKYO: Confidence among next year among the region’s vency threshold if the rules had risks on their books, which secures Friends Life, sees Solvency II driv- European insurers, particularly major Japanese manufacturers 5,000 insurers, after recent already been in force. While EIOPA better treatment under the new ing European insurers to offload life insurers, are facing from low edged down in the three months stress tests showed nearly one in did not name the companies or rules. Companies may also try to books closed to new life insurance interest rates and a moribund to December, a quarterly central seven would fail them, analysts their countries of origin, it did say achieve scale that would allow customers — to specialists who can economy. The results of the recent bank survey showed yesterday, and industry executives said. that it was mainly smaller insurers them to cut expenses relative to run them more efficiently. stress tests, analysts say, were seen underscoring the lacklustre state The European Union’s Solvency that faced problems. The 14 percent their expanded asset base, much Rival British closed-life special- as a wake-up call against that of the world’s third largest econ- II rules, due to take effect in represented only 3 percent of total as Aviva has done with its agreed ist Chesnara just bought assets of background of weak revenue. omy. The Bank of Japan’s closely January 2016, are aimed at assets of the insurers under review. $9bn takeover of Friends Life in bankrupt Dutch financial serv- “If you are the management watched Tankan survey showed improving the safety of products Merging with another insurer Britain. ices group DSB and sees Europe of a company and know that you confidence among large manu- for consumers, and will require a may provide a solution to compa- Indeed, Britain has already seen offering more opportunities than will have some issues in facing facturers stood at plus 12 against complete overhaul of risk-manage- nies where costs are high and capi- the number of life insurers halve Britain. “The UK has been consoli- Solvency II, you will start look- plus 13 in the September survey. ment systems at insurance compa- tal is short. “Solvency II has driven over the last decade, which could dating for 10 to 15 years now, so ing now rather than later,” said Economists had expected the nies large and small. some M&A activity and this may portend consolidation in other we are probably part-way through Antonello Aquino, an associate reading would stay flat, according They have already exposed weak well accelerate in the lead-up to European markets, with insur- that process, whereas in Holland ... managing director for insurance at to a survey by the daily Nikkei. capital safety buffers at some. implementation of the directive,” ers in France, Germany and the that process hasn’t really started,” rating agency Moody’s. REUTERS Confidence among non-manu- facturing companies rose to plus 16 from plus 13, delivering mixed news to Prime Minister Shinzo Finance meet in Ottawa Abe’s ruling coalition that scored a big win in Sunday’s snap elec- tions. “Today’s Tankan survey US factory output suggests that Japan’s economy stabilised in the fourth quarter, but a rapid recovery is not on the increases in sign of cards,” Marcel Thieliant, Japan economist at Capital Economics, said in a note. The survey of more than 10,000 economy’s strength companies — marking the differ- ence between the percentage of WASHINGTON: US manu- December, though builders firms that are upbeat and those facturing output recorded its remained more optimistic than in that see conditions as unfavourable largest increase in nine months the first half of the year. — is the most comprehensive indi- in November as production The data comes a day before cator of how Japan Inc is faring. expanded across the board, Federal Reserve officials gather The central bank’s report came pointing to underlying strength for a two-day meeting to assess after government data showed in the economy. the economy’s health and deliber- the world’s third largest economy Factory production increased ate on monetary policy. Economists shrank 0.5 percent quarter-on- 1.1 percent last month after an expect the US central bank to open quarter in the three months to upwardly revised 0.4 percent the door a bit wider to interest rate September following a 1.7 percent advance in October, the Federal hikes next year after the recent contraction in the June quarter. Reserve said yesterday. “There is run of bullish data. The two consecutive quarters little evidence here that weaker Overall manufacturing output of negative growth met a common global growth or a stronger dollar increased broadly in November, definition of a recession. has hurt US manufacturing,” said with a 5.1 percent jump in auto- Abe over the past two years has John Ryding, chief economist at mobile production after three pressed ahead with a pro-spending RDQ Economics in New York. straight months of decline. There growth bid, dubbed “Abenomics”, The upbeat factory data joined were also solid gains in machinery, Canada’s Finance Minister Joe Oliver (right) and Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz attend a meeting which boosted stock prices and bullish employment and retail sales apparel and leather, and petroleum with provincial and territorial finance ministers in Ottawa yesterday. Oliver said he was confident that the pushed the yen down. AFP reports in suggesting strength in and coal products. Mining output federal government would balance the budget next year despite volatile oil prices. the economy, even as growth in the slipped 0.1 percent last month, fourth quarter is expected to mod- while utilities production jumped erate sharply after two back-to- 5.1 percent as a cold snap boosted back quarters of robust expansion. demand for utilities. Wall Street had expected man- The gain in manufacturing and US brokerage BGC to buy UK rival RP Martin ufacturing output to rise only 0.5 utilities combined to lift overall percent in November after a pre- industrial production by 1.3 percent viously reported 0.2 percent gain in November, the largest increase LONDON: US brokerage BGC the benchmark London interbank deepened by years of very low (consolidation) is going to hap- in October. But the optimism over since May 2010. Partners has agreed to buy offered interest rate (Libor). interest rates, which have reduced pen, it has got to be approaching the manufacturing sector was tem- The amount of manufacturing London rival RP Martin, the It was ordered to pay British revenue from trading products rather rapidly as they are all suf- pered somewhat by a second report capacity in use last month rose to latest step towards consolida- and US regulators $2.3m but such as interest-rate swaps. fering the pain at the moment,” from the New York Federal Reserve its highest since December 2007. tion of an industry under pres- Britain’s finance watchdog Many interdealer brokers, Societe Generale analyst Michael showing its Empire State general Overall industrial capacity use hit sure from tough new rules for reduced the penalty because the including market leader ICAP, Sanderson said. business conditions index fell to its highest level in more than 6-1/2 its traditional banking clients, brokerage was unable to pay the have axed jobs, cut costs and repo- RP Martin, the world’s oldest -3.58 in December, the first con- years. “The sharp rise in pace of low volatility and rock-bottom full amount on top of other Libor- sitioned into faster-growing areas money broker, is known for its traction since January 2013, from a capacity utilization is of particular interest rates. related fines. like electronic trading and post- strength in broking derivatives reading of 10.16 in November. interest as it could be seen as an BGC said that it had acquired Interdealer brokers — which trade services to cope. based on European interest rates Economists said the New York indication of accelerating resource the UK assets of smaller, unlisted make money by matching buyers Analysts have said that in this and foreign exchange, but has Fed survey was volatile because slack absorption in the US econ- rival RP Martin and would take and sellers of bonds, swaps and environment, the number of major seen revenue slide in recent years. of limited factory activity in the omy,” said Millan Mulraine, deputy over its other businesses based in currencies — are battling major players in the industry, currently Analysts said that could improve region. “On balance, however, the chief economist at TD Securities in Sweden and the Netherlands in changes. These include new, at five — ICAP, Tullett, BGC, GFI as rivals forecast increased activ- weak reading is consistent with New York. 2015. It gave no financial details. more conservative capital rules Group and Tradition — should be ity, and some central banks eye slower manufacturing activity late Officials at the Fed tend to look RP Martin, also known as that have prompted investment reduced to three or even two. And higher rates. in the quarter,” said Jesse Hurwitz, at capacity use as a signal of how Martins, declined to comment on banking clients to cut back cer- there are signs of consolidation. BGC said RP Martin’s unau- an economist at Barclays in New much “slack” remains in the econ- the sale. In May Martins joined tain trading activities, and efforts BGC is pursuing a takeover of dited revenues for the financial Yo rk . omy and how much room there is the group of banks and brokers to push more derivatives trading GFI and Tullett bought oil broker year ending September 30 were A third report showed home- for growth to run before it becomes that have been fined over allega- onto electronic platforms. PVM earlier this year. over $50m. Turnover was $88.8m builder sentiment ebbed in inflationary. REUTERS tions that its staff sought to rig Their troubles have been “If there’s a time that it in 2013. REUTERS

Accor, China Lodging in pact SpiceJet seeks India’s inflation rate flat, state’s help as problems mount raising rate cut hopes MUMBAI: India’s wholesale to 4.38 percent, a three-year low, NEW DELHI: India’s cash- inflation fell to a five-and-a- while industrial output con- strapped SpiceJet airline, which half-year low driven by ongo- tracted, also putting pressure on announced the cancellation ing falls in fuel and food prices, the central bank to cut rates. of nearly 1,900 of its domestic data showed yesterday, boosting That inflation figure was below flights last week, sought “urgent expectations of an interest rate the RBI’s six-percent goal for relief” from the government cut early next year. January 2016, and down sharply yesterday as its financial woes The Wholesale Price Index, from double-digit inflation last mounted. The airline asked for India’s inflation measure with the year. Finance Minister Arun the government’s financial help biggest basket of goods, slipped to Jaitley is hoping for a cut in bor- to ensure it is able to run its eve- a lower-than-expected zero per- rowing costs to boost investment ryday operations smoothly. cent in November from a year and stimulate the faltering econ- SpiceJet officials met Mahesh earlier, the lowest rate since July omy, which is mired in the longest Sharma, India’s junior civil avia- 2009, official data showed. slowdown in a quarter of a cen- tion minister and “made the The latest WPI compares tury. But even with inflation fall- plea for urgent relief,” a report with a five-year-low of 1.77 per- ing, the RBI has resisted appeals in Press Trust of India news cent recorded in October, and to loosen monetary policy. agency said. was below analysts’ estimates of Rises in prices of food espe- Sharma confirmed the meet- about 1.1 percent. Analysts said cially have caused huge hardship ing and said no decision had yet Reserve Bank of India Governor for India’s 1.2 billion population, been taken on the private air- Raghuram Rajan’s aggressive poli- according to the World Bank. line’s request, which would be cies to curb price rises appeared Rajan, a former chief economist put to the prime minister’s office to be paying off. The sharp fall in of the IMF, said earlier this month and the ministries of finance and global crude oil prices also helped a cut in its benchmark repo rate petroleum. keep inflation in check in India, was “premature”, but indicated a “No assurance has been given which imports most of its fuel. reduction was very likely in early to them,” the minister added, “This means the Reserve Bank 2015 if inflation continued to fall. according to the report. of India (RBI) will be under “The world has not changed The no-frills airline, SpiceJet, is pressure to cut rates,” said Arun between now and the last RBI India’s second-largest carrier by Singh, senior economist at credit policy meeting. The fall in Huazhu Hotels Group Ltd Founder and CEO Qi Ji (left) and French hotel operator Accor CEO Sebastien Bazin passenger share. SpiceJet’s shares data firm Dun & Bradstreet. inflation was expected,” said in Paris yesterday. Accor announced a strategic alliance with China Lodging Group to create a major new are down some 80 percent from Figures released on Friday Ashutosh Datar, economist at player in the fast-growing Chinese domestic travel and hospitality market. the 2007 peak. AFP showed consumer inflation slowed IIFL Holdings Ltd. AFP TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 BUSINESS VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 25 Slowdown signs emerge Draghi’s task: Make for US states after oil dip

BY TIM REID

fter leading the US economic recovery out of reces- plans more credible sion, some of the nation’s top oil states are showing early signs of a slowdown as a result of the plunge in crude prices. BY PAUL GORDON & under huge pressure to protect its bonds, and 55 percent predict the the ECB mustn’t become Europe’s A ANDRE TARTAR In Houston, Texas, the first oil industry layoffs have been credibility and fulfill its price-sta- ECB will purchase agency debt. “bad bank.” Elsewhere, Estonia’s announced, with realtors there predicting a sharp decline, up to bility mandate.” Draghi said on December 4 that Ardo Hansson said last week he’s 12 percent, in home sales next year. he battle over whether Inflation slowed to 0.3 percent “all assets but gold” are under con- skeptical about QE’s effective- Alaska’s 2015 fiscal year budget revenue forecast will have to to start quantitative last month, matching the weak- sideration. He may have to ruffle ness. “The process is unlikely to be be lowered by almost $2bn, according to Fitch Ratings, because easing in the euro est level in five years. ECB Chief some feathers. Ninety-six percent smooth,” said Alan McQuaid, chief of the sharp drop in the state’s forecast crude prices. region is all but won, Economist Peter Praet said last of the economists said some policy economist at Merrion Capital That will widen Alaska’s budget gap to almost $3.4bn, Fitch economists say. More week that the rate could turn makers will oppose fresh stimulus. Group in Dublin. “Germany will said in a report. Tthan 90 percent of respondents in negative in coming months, and The most vocal resistance vehemently oppose the move and States such as Texas, North Dakota, Alaska, Oklahoma Bloomberg’s monthly survey pre- Draghi hinted that the recent has come from German officials. there is no guarantee that banks and New Mexico are all likely to feel strains next year, dict the European Central Bank slump in oil prices will reduce the Executive Board member Sabine will sell the bonds to the ECB Wells Fargo Securities municipal analyst Roy Eappen said in a will begin large-scale buying of institution’s 2015 forecast of 0.7 Lautenschlaeger and Bundesbank without an attractive incentive.” recent report. government bonds next year, up percent by more than half. President Jens Weidmann have Governing Council mem- Meanwhile, household sentiment in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma from 57 percent last month. An The ECB president’s strategy both spoken out against sov- ber Ewald Nowotny, who heads and Arkansas where memories of the catastrophic 1980s oil crash announcement will most likely for steering euro-area inflation ereign-bond purchases, saying Austria’s central bank, that any are still fresh, weakened in October more than any other region, come in the first quarter, with any back to his goal of just under 2 they undermine the incentive for decision will depend on the out- according to a report by Decision Analyst Inc. The Texas-based decision taken against the objec- percent is to add as much as €1 governments to make structural look for the economy, in particular research company surveys monthly thousands of homeowners tions of some policy makers, the trillion to the ECB’s balance sheet adjustments. prices. The “prospect of missing in the Census Bureau’s nine regional divisions. poll of 55 economists showed. via targeted long-term loans to Weidmann stepped up his our target on price stability in the The West South Central division, comprising those four states, With less than six weeks to go banks and asset purchases. Three campaign in interviews, telling longer term” could trigger QE, he had seen the strongest growth for four years, but in October sur- before the ECB’s next monetary- quarters of economists said he’ll Le Figaro and La Repubblica that told reporters in Vienna. “There vey lagged the rest of the nation, with economic gauges improving policy meeting, President Mario succeed, up from 60 percent in the the euro area hasn’t reached a won’t be unconditional approval.” in six regions and two recording no change. Draghi’s drive to corner dissent November survey. situation where the advantages Among economists who speci- “The fact that the economic index is in decline in this on more stimulus is taking on Current measures will add of a QE programme outweigh fied the month for a QE announce- region signals that the economy in these oil states is heading added urgency. Plunging oil prices about €700bn by the end of 2016, its costs. The Bundesbank said ment, 57 percent said it’ll come for an economic slowdown,” said Jerry Thomas, president of threaten to tip the 18-nation according to the median estimate in its monthly bulletin published at the January 22 policy meet- Decision Analyst. economy into deflation, and banks in the survey. That’s partly off- yesterday that while the drop in ing, though implementation may Responding to a more than 40 percent drop in crude prices are showing little appetite to use set by crisis-era loans that must oil prices will push even German only start later. “Draghi’s most since June, at least a dozen US energy companies have cut spend- cheap central-bank cash to boost be repaid by February, leaving inflation nearer to zero, it will also important task is to make this ing plans for next year — bad news for states that rely on jobs, lending. “There is no doubt that the ECB in search of more than act as a boost to households. announcement credible,” Kristian wealth and tax income they provide. the ECB will scale up its expan- €500bn through measures yet to Germany’s Christian Social Toedtmann, an economist at As a result, while most states expect a tailwind from cheaper sionary policies — it’s just a matter be announced. Union, the Bavarian sister party DekaBank in Frankfurt. “He has oil and its boost to consumption, it is the oil states’ turn to act of timing,” said Duncan de Vries, More than three quarters of of Angela Merkel’s Christian to prove that the ECB is willing to as a drag on the nation’s overall economic growth. an economist at NIBC Bank in the respondents said those meas- Democratic Union, said in a make use of really strong instru- Thanks to the shale oil boom North Dakota’s economy grew The Hague. “The ECB will remain ures will include buying corporate party convention resolution that ments.” WP-BLOOMBERG by a fifth in 2012 and almost 10 percent last year. Texas economy expanded by nearly 7 percent in 2012 and 3.7 percent in 2013 compared with nationwide rates of 2.5 percent and 1.8 percent, respectively. That is about to change. In a sign of things to come, Houston-based Hercules Offshore Inc recently notified the authorities of planned “mass layoffs.” In a letter, the company said it would be permanently laying off 324 workers in its Gulf of Mexico operations due to the anticipated closure of four rigs. According to company filings, it has 2,200 employees. Hercules Offshore did not respond to a request for comment. The number of well permits fell almost 40 percent nationwide in November, according to industry data firm Drilling Info Inc, which means fewer jobs and less related business. Bud Weinstein, an energy economist at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, said the downturn in production will affect related industries such as transportation, cement, metal parts and food suppliers. For example, it takes up to 2,000 truck trips to build one new well, Weinstein said. An informal tally of announced plans for US drilling rig opera- tions shows at least seven firms plan to cut the number of rigs they operate now by a total of more than 50 in 2015, with each rig estimated to employ 50-60 workers. Another concern is dwindling sources of funding that would help companies ride out the downturn. Prices of some of the junk-rated bonds that helped energy companies finance their expansion during boom years have been tumbling and banks in oil-producing regions are expected to curb lending to the energy sector. Russell Evans, an Oklahoma City University economist, said the 1982 oil crash has left deep scars in Oklahoma where oil and gas industry accounts for about 20 percent of all jobs and two- thirds of those created since 2008. Evans expects Oklahoma to weather the current price slide better because of a strong long-term outlook for the industry, but the history of booms and busts keeps many on edge. “There is a fair amount of anxiety here,” he said. For Karr Ingham, whose firm Ingham Economic Reporting monitors rig counts, permits and the oil economy in Texas, there is no doubt that hard times are just round the corner. “A slowdown is coming, period. It’s just a matter of time.” REUTERS Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate US health exchanges find no new big clients BY CAROLINE HUMER the new exchanges will save them plans and competition helps keep private exchange this year, after an advantage that an exchange is just easier and better for peo- enough money to warrant the prices down. previously expecting the business can’t match, he said. ple,” Starbucks Chief Operating ealthcare compa- switch, raising doubts about this Employers contribute a fixed to be mildly profitable. Aon didn’t Darden Restaurants Inc, owner Officer Troy Alstead said. nies including Aetna new business model. dollar amount to help their work- say how much money it would lose. of the Olive Garden chain, was Large companies who are open Inc, Mercer and “We have a lot of wait-and-see ers buy coverage, but can save Insurer Cigna Corp will sell health one of the first large companies to joining the exchanges are now Towers Watson Co going on with large employers,” money by no longer managing the plans on the Aon exchange in 2016. to move to Aon Hewitt’s private asking to see at least two or three have invested hun- said Brian Marcotte, chief exec- benefits within their companies. “This is coming. It’s just the exchange. Medical costs were ris- years, and as many as five years, of Hdreds of millions of dollars to utive of the National Business They are not directly related to pace at which we believe the mar- ing 8 to 10 percent per year and data on insurance premiums and build exchanges that allow com- Group on Health, a lobbying group the state-based Obamacare insur- ket is going to make the transi- it had used the same insurer for medical claims from plans sold pany employees to buy their own for large corporations. “They are ance exchanges that offer govern- tion” that is slower than expected, 15 years. In 2012, it made a “leap on the exchanges to be sure that insurance, betting that Corporate not quite sure yet how they will ment-subsidised health plans. said Patty Fontneau, who runs of faith” that Aon Hewitt could do there will not be a sudden increase America wants to get out of man- deliver on managing costs better.” Since 2012, employers covering Cigna’s private exchange business. a better job, said Danielle Kirgan, in premiums to contend with, ben- aging workers’ health benefits. US employers provide health as many as 3 million people have Mercer and Towers Watson’s Darden’s senior vice president for efits consultants said. By last year, blue chip names benefits for more than 160 million signed on to use the exchanges. A Liazon unit are still seeing growth human resources. Some corporations also describe like Sears Holding and Walgreen people, mostly by contracting with recent report from Mercer LLC, from serving more mid-sized busi- It took four months to overhaul a sense of fatigue after several Co had signed on and industry large health insurers to adminis- part of Marsh & McLennan, found nesses, which are signing up for Darden’s benefits systems and years of getting their coverage experts predicted that more than ter the healthcare benefits that that 3 percent of large employ- exchanges at a higher rate since explain the change to employees. compliant with Obamacare and 20 percent of the nation’s employ- the company funds, with contribu- ers were using private exchanges they have less invested in manag- The pay off has been lower year- are loath to make additional ees would soon buy their health tions from employee-paid premi- and that 28 percent of employ- ing health coverage for employees. over-year increases in healthcare changes in short order. insurance in this way, compared ums. But as healthcare costs rose ers would make the shift within Other insurance experts ques- spending. “We have over three Many have introduced health with less than 2 percent today. steadily, and President Barack 5 years, taking a bite out of the tion whether the forecasts will years of seeing rates, and they plans with high deductibles to shift But interviews with nearly a dozen Obama’s healthcare law required business served by major insurers ever materialise. have been dramatically and con- costs to employees and want to see industry executives has found that coverage of more medical services, like UnitedHealth Group Inc and “Private exchanges were over- sistently less,” Kirgan said in an whether that will be enough to no major US company signed up many sought ways to rein in those Anthem Inc, previously known as hyped from the beginning,” said interview. save money. They are also uncer- their employees for the first time expenses. WellPoint. Dan Mendelson, chief executive of Starbucks Corp, however, tain about what may be required to a private health insurance Private exchanges such as Aon Industry executives are now healthcare research firm Avalere took a close look at the private of them if the Affordable Care Act exchange for 2015. Hewitt, part of Aon PLC , aim projecting more caution about Health. Large employers enjoy exchanges to understand them, is changed by a new Congress with Many of those executives expect to be the Amazon.coms of the when private exchanges will take significant leverage in negotiating but has never planned to move Republican opponents of the law a similar situation in 2016, as blue insurance world, where employ- off. Aon Hewitt said in October down the price of benefits for the its 136,000 employees. “What we in charge. chip employers wait for proof that ees choose and pay for their own that it would lose money on its many members of their workforce, tended to learn is that what we do REUTERS TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 26 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MARKET

QE Indices Summary QE Index 11,460.02 3.11 % WORLD STOCK INDICES GOLD & SILVER EXCHANGE QE Total Return Index 17,092.52 3.11 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 3,788.59 3.46 % RATE QE All Share Index 2,925.2 3.17 % INDEX Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low QE All Share Banks & Financial 3,021.62 4.31 % GOLD Buying Selling Services All Ordinaries 5164.591 -32.259 -0.62 5672.3 5072.7 QE All Share Industrials 3,774.96 2.76 % QR142.3265 US$ ...... QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 QE All Share Transportation 2,114.15 1.94 % Cac 40 Index/D 4130.49 21.56 0.52 4598.65 3789.11 QE All Share Real Estate 2,075.13 1.79 % SILVER UK ...... QR 5.6718 QR 5.7509 QE All Share Insurance 3,297.11 1.17 % Dj Indu Average 17280.83 -315.51 -1.79 17991.2 15340.69 QR 1.9858 Euro ...... QR 4.5000 QR 4.5625 QE All Share Telecoms 1,355.12 1.60 % CA$ ...... QR 3.1158 QR 3.1771 QE All Share Consumer Goods & 6,340.13 4.61 % Hang Seng Inde/D 23027.85 -221.35 -0.95 25362.98 21137.61 Services Swiss Fr ...... QR 3.7462 QR 3.7988 QE Market Summary Comparison Iseq Overall/D 5059.17 -15.14 -0.3 5325.15 4275.26 Yen ...... QR 0.0304 QR 0.0310 Aus$ ...... QR 2.9699 QR 3.0283 Today Previous day Karachi 100 In/D 31690.1 100.28 0.32 32315.56 25273.11 CRUDE OIL 15-12-2014 14-12-2014 Ind Re ...... QR 0.0573 QR 0.0584 Index 11,460.02 11,114.43 Nikkei 225 Index 17099.4 -272.18 -1.57 18030.83 13885.11 Pak Re ...... QR 0.0360 QR 0.0367 Change 345.59 690.89 BRENT Peso ...... QR 0.0808 QR 0.0824 S&P 500 Index/D 2002.33 -33 -1.62 2079.47 1737.92 % 3.11 5.85 $ 63.04 SL Re ...... QR 0.0275 QR 0.0281 YTD% 10.41 7.08 Straits Times/D 3294.14 -29.99 -0.9 3387.84 2953.01 Taka ...... QR 0.0466 QR 0.0477 Volume 25,206,756 22,541,996 DUBAI Nep Re ...... QR 0.0360 QR 0.0367 Value (QAR) 1,008,052,716.12 957,052,047.29 Straits Times/D 3290.99 -1.82 -0.06 3387.84 2953.01 SA Rand ...... QR 0.3104 QR 0.3167 Trades 11,034 9,804 $ 60.28 Straits Times/D 3274.06 -8.82 -0.27 3291.83 2953.01 Up 37 | Down 04 | Unchanged 00

QATAR EXCHANGE | DAILY TRADING REPORT | 15-12-2014

INTERNATIONAL MARKETS A List of Shares from the world

COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED A C C-A/D 1435 2.5 36529 Cipla-A/D 631.7 -8.15 79077 Himat Seide-B/D 90.75 1.2 44189 Kg Denim-B/D 14.9 -0.2 8902 Rallis India-A/D 215.15 3.5 23621 Legal & Genera/D 238.2 -1.4 4917598 Aban Offs-A/D 421.7 -24.8 453120 City Union Bk-/D 91.7 0.9 71109 Hind Motors-T/D 7.9 -0.14 95918 Kilburnengg-T/D 41 -0.45 11628 Rallis India-A/D 215.15 3.5 23621 Lloyds Bnk Grp/D 76.08 -0.05 63156497 Aegis Logis-B/D 431.55 -3.2 5363 Cmc Ltd-A/D 1815.05 -69.95 4279 Hind Org Chem-/D 21.15 -0.3 9708 Kopran-B/D 54.15 0.35 169131 Reliance Indus/D 468.45 -13.5 58342 Marks & Sp./D 467.6 -0.1 5181940 Ahmed.Forg-B/D 366.85 -11.5 45175 Colgate-A/D 1764.3 -39.55 21694 Hind Unilever-/D 790.8 -7 53537 Lakshmi Elec-B/D 460 -11.1 3817 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4254 Finolex-A/D 273.45 -2.15 10996 Jct Ltd-B/D 3.68 0.04 52727 Neuland Lab-B/D 447.95 8.55 3465 Bg Group/D 831.7 12.7 4765150 United Util Gr/D 903.5 0.5 955539 Canfin Homes-B/D 495.7 0.55 3866 Forbes-B/D 1579.7 143.6 4038 Jenson&Nich.-B/D 5.85 -0.3 60044 Nrb Bearings-B/D 124.55 -1.55 8680 Bp/D 385.05 -0.6 11721182 Vodafone Group/D 217.1 1.8 19213245 Caprihans-B/D 80 -0.35 17205 Gail-A/D 422.2 -1.25 215066 Jik Indust-B/D 1.2 0 14517 O N G C-A/D 342.9 5.95 447837 Brit Am Tobacc/D 3447 42 787729 Whitbread/D 4499 43 99369 Cast.Bo/D 490.1 -4.4 51921 Gammon India-T/D 25.85 -0.6 114343 Jktyre&Ind-B/D 654.4 11.35 226771 Ocl India-B/D 420.45 -11.85 34726 Bt Group/D 404.675 7.3 4855500 Century Enka-B/D 156.35 -1.25 12088 Garden P -B/D 30.55 -0.6 5340 Jmc Projects-T/D 175 -4.6 6628 Oil Country-B/D 35.1 -1.2 8632 Centrica/D 270.3 4.9 4227825 Century Text-A/D 504.35 -11.7 78628 Godfrey Phil-B/D 577.25 -10.95 6198 Kabra Extr-B/D 84 1.45 8359 Onward Tech-B/D 57.7 3.85 6311 Gkn/D 330.6 5.9 1087493 Chambal Fert-B/D 63.1 -0.95 52334 Goodricke-B/D 156.2 -2.1 13335 Kajaria Cer-A/D 572 -1.6 204047 Orchid Chem-B/D 65.55 -2.9 166556 Hsbc Holdings/D 603.37 -0.3 7931497 Chola Invest-B/D 477 11.45 4329 Goodyear I -B/D 651 -4.9 8187 Kalpat Power-B/D 200.85 1.55 50570 Orient Hotel-T/D 24.1 1.55 13353 Imperial Tobac/D 2738 27 523775 Chowgule St-T/D 19.1 -0.55 4584 Hcl Infosys-B/D 49.4 -2.5 541823 Kalyani Stel-T/D 140.8 -4.5 32936 Punjab Chem.-B/D 108 -0.6 14434 Kingfisher/D 324.3 9.4 1854737 Cimmco-B/D 57.15 -4.45 11522 Him.Fut.Comm-T/D 18.7 -0.5 1580581 Kanoria Chem-B/D 34.6 -0.7 9217 Radico Khait-B/D 88.55 -0.2 116677 Land Secs Grou/D 1132 -2 416349 TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 27

Byron Scott (left) of the Los Angeles Lakers Bulls prevail over Heat speaks with Kobe Bryant (centre) during a time out in the fourth quarter of the NBA game to extend winning run against the Minnesota Timberwolves, yesterday in Dunleavy stars with 22 points; Warriors beat Pelicans Minneapolis, Minnesota. NEW YORK: The Chicago All-Star forward Anthony Davis Bulls, with the best road record and were led by forward Tyreke in the Eastern Conference, Evans’ season-high 34 points and defeated the Miami Heat. guard Jrue Holiday’s 27. Bryant passes Jordan Mike Dunleavy scored all 22 of Lakers 100, Timberwolves 94 his points in the second half to On the night he surpassed lead Chicago (15-8) who improved Michael Jordan for third on the Derrick Rose to 11-3 on the road, including four NBA’s all-time scoring list, Los on all-time scoring list (centre) of the straight wins. Angeles guard Kobe Bryant put Chicago Bulls The Heat (11-13) were without up a team-high 26 points in the MINNEAPOLIS: Los Angeles 36,928 on the all-time list. Bryant shoots over standout forward Chris Bosh and Lakers’ win over the Minnesota Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant pulled within two points of Jordan Chris Andersen guard Dwyane Wade had an off Timberwolves. Entering Sunday passed NBA icon Michael with a three-pointer, then nearly night. He finished with 17 points needing only nine points to move (left) of the Jordan yesterday for third on passed him with a turnaround on 7-for-18 shooting. past Jordan’s mark of 32,292, Miami Heat the league’s all-time scoring jump shot that rattled out of the Warriors 128, Pelicans 122 Bryant overtook the Chicago Bulls during their list – and lifted his Los Angeles basket. Stephen Curry scored a team- legend with a free throw in the NBA game Lakers to a victory. “I thought that was the shot,” high 34 points, including eight in second quarter. Bryant (32,310) at American Bryant, a five-time champion said Lakers coach Byron Scott, overtime, and Klay Thompson now sits behind only Kareem Airlines Arena, in his 19th season, came into the who played his final NBA season added 29 to lift the Golden State Abdul-Jabbar (38,387) and Karl yesterday in contest against the Minnesota for the Lakers when Bryant was Warriors to a victory over the Malone (36,928) in career points. Miami, Florida. Timberwolves needing nine points a teenaged rookie with the club. New Orleans Pelicans and extend Wizards 93, Jazz 84 to surpass Jordan’s career total “I guess my second choice their franchise-record winning Bradley Beal scored 22 points of 32,292. would be he gets fouled and goes streak to 16 games. and fueled a second-half surge He tied and passed the Hall of to the free throw line.” The Warriors (21-2) are off to along with backcourt partner Famer with a pair of free throws Bryant, known for his ice- the third-best start in NBA his- John Wall as the Washington that gave the Lakers a 38-32 lead cool performances under pres- tory, but this one was a strug- Wizards took control in the sec- with 5:24 remaining in the second sure, admitted he felt a flutter gle on the second game of a ond half for a victory over the quarter. of nerves when he stepped to the back-to-back. Utah Jazz. Wall had 16 points, straight games and moved to the Eastern Conference after win. He finished with 26 points, line for the potentially history- The Pelicans played without eight assists, six rebounds, five 11-13 on the season. Over that Spurs 99, Nuggets 91 including a go-ahead three- making free throws. steals and three blocks for the same time span, the Suns (12-13) Kawhi Leonard scored 18 pointer lofted over Andrew “You get up there and the Wizards (17-6), who outscored have lost five straight. points, six blocked shots and five Wiggins with 1:02 to play as the crowd’s really waiting to see NBA Results the Jazz 30-16 in the third quarter Raptors 95, Knicks 90 steals, and the San Antonio Spurs Lakers triumphed 100-94. you score nine points, so don’t Golden State 128 New Orleans 122 after trailing 42-37 at halftime. Patrick Patterson and point beat the Denver Nuggets. “I’m just honoured to be here ‘F’ this up and completely kill Chicago 93 Miami 75 Thunder 112, Suns 88 guard Kyle Lowry hit clutch shots Tim Duncan had 15 points and and still be playing,” said Bryant, the moment,” Bryant said.The Washington 93 Utah 84 Russell Westbrook and Kevin in the early stages of overtime as nine rebounds for the Spurs (17- who was limited to just six games moment sparked a mini-cele- LA Lakers 100 Minnesota 94 Durant combined for 51 points the Toronto Raptors pulled out a 7), who held off a late Denver by injury last season. “Careers bration, bringing cheering fans Oklahoma City 112 Phoenix 88 and 16 rebounds to lead the victory over the New York Knicks. rally for the win. Arron Afflalo led don’t usually last this long. to their feet as Bryant, 36, was Oklahoma City Thunder to a win Terrence Ross led the Raptors Denver (10-14) with a season-high Bryant, with 32,310 points, now awarded a game ball and con- Toronto 95 NY Knicks 90 over the Phoenix Suns. with a season-high 22 points as 31 points but had a game-high six sits behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar gratulated by team-mates and San Antonio 99 Denver 91 The Thunder have won five Toronto (18-6) stayed on top of turnovers. REUTERS with 38,387 and Karl Malone with opponents. AFP

Rangers forward Chris Kreider (left) and Edmonton Maple Leafs edge Kings in shoot-out Oilers forward Tyler Pitlick get NEW YORK: Joffrey Lupul Cody Franson and James van ended, the Chicago Blackhawks Edmonton Oilers. The Rangers ready for the was the only player to score Riemsdyk scored for the Maple resumed their winning ways, (14-10-4) scored once in the first drop of the puck in the shootout as the Toronto Leafs (18-9-3) in regulation. beating the Calgary Flames on period, then added an empty-net- during the first Maple Leafs defeated the Los Los Angeles (15-10-6) got goals Brandon Saad’s goal at 12:57 of ter in the last minute to hand the Angeles Kings. from Justin Williams, Dwight the third period. Oilers (7-19-5) their 15th lossin period of their The victory extended the Maple King and right winger Marian In other game, the New York the last 16 games. NHL game at Leafs’ winning streak to five Gaborik. Rangers, playing their second Dan Girardi and Cari Hagelin Rexall Place, games and left the Kings at 1-2-1 Meanwhile, one night after game in as many nights, had netted the goals for the New York yesterday. after four games. Mike Santorelli, their eight-game winning streak enough energy to shut out the side. AGENCIES

ATP Tour Singles

Standings Dallas Cowboys 1 (1) Novak Djokovic (Serbia) 11360 wide receiver 2 (2) Roger Federer (Switzerland) 9775 Dez Bryant (left) 3 (3) Rafa Nadal (Spain) 6835 makes a reception 4 (4) Stanislas Wawrinka (Switzerland) 5370 past Philadelphia Eagles free safety 5 (5) Kei Nishikori (Japan) 5025 Malcolm Jenkins 6 (6) Andy Murray (Britain) 4675 (centre) and 7 (7) Tomas Berdych (Czech Republic) 4600 inside linebacker 8 (8) Milos Raonic (Canada) 4440 Mychal Kendricks 9 (9) Marin Cilic (Croatia) 4150 during the second 10 (10) David Ferrer (Spain) 4045 half of their NFL 11 (11) Grigor Dimitrov (Bulgaria) 3645 game at Lincoln 12 (12) Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (France) 2740 Financial Field. The 13 (13) Ernests Gulbis (Latvia) 2455 Cowboys defeated 14 (14) Feliciano Lopez (Spain) 2130 the Eagles 38-27. 15 (15) Roberto Bautista (Spain) 2110 16 (16) Kevin Anderson (South Africa) 2080 17 (17) Tommy Robredo (Spain) 2015 18 (18) Gael Monfils (France) 1900 19 (19) John Isner (US) 1890 20 (20) Fabio Fognini (Italy) 1790 Three touchdowns from WTA Tour Singles Bryant lead Dallas to win Standings 1 (1) Serena Williams (US) 8485 NEW YORK: Fired-up they had relinquished the top 2 (2) Maria Sharapova (Russia) 7050 receiver Dez Bryant scored NFL Results spot on Thanksgiving when 3 (3) Simona Halep (Romania) 6292 three touchdowns to ignite Indianapolis 17 Houston 10 Philadelphia handed them a 4 (4) Petra Kvitova (Czech Republic) 5966 Dallas’s 38-27 win over the Kansas City 31 Oakland 13 33-10 blowout defeat. rival Philadelphia Eagles In the rematch, the Cowboys 5 (5) Ana Ivanovic (Serbia) 4820 New England 41 Miami 13 yesterday as the Cowboys raced out to a 21-0 lead before 6 (6) Agnieszka Radwanska (Poland) 4810 NY Giants 24 Washington 13 regained control of the NFC the Eagles responded with 24 Pittsburgh 27 Atlanta 20 7 (7) Eugenie Bouchard (Canada) 4715 East. straight points to seize the lead. 8 (8) Caroline Wozniacki (Denmark) 4625 Bryant got into a pre- Baltimore 20 Jacksonville 12 Dallas responded with a long 9 (9) Angelique Kerber (Germany) 3480 game shouting match with Buffalo 21 Green Bay 13 drive and a two-yard TD run 10 (10) Dominika Cibulkova (Slovakia) 3052 Philadelphia’s Malcolm Jenkins Carolina 19 Tampa Bay 17 from DeMarco Murray, and 11 (11) Ekaterina Makarova (Russia) 2970 and carried his rage onto the Cincinnati 30 Cleveland 0 Bryant caught his third score 12 (12) Flavia Pennetta (Italy) 2861 field where his 114 receiving Denver 22 San Diego 10 to give the visiting Cowboys a yards gave the Cowboys their 35-24 lead. 13 (13) Andrea Petkovic (Germany) 2780 NY Jets 16 Tennessee 11 14 (14) Sara Errani (Italy) 2775 biggest win of the season. Both teams added late “I was focused,” Bryant told Seattle 17 San Francisco 7 field goals, and Philadelphia’s 15 (15) Jelena Jankovic (Serbia) 2675 reporters after his first career Detroit 16 Minnesota 14 chances were hurt by a fourth- 16 (16) Lucie Safarova (Czech) 2615 three-touchdown effort. Dallas 38 Philadelphia 27 quarter Brent Celek fumble - 17 (17) Carla Suarez Navarro (Spain) 2415 “We knew this game was one of their four turnovers on 18 (18) Venus Williams (US) 2270 going to be big. From here on Dallas (10-4) moved one game the night. Philadelphia trailed 19 (19) Alize Cornet (France) 2255 out there’s big games. We have in front of the Eagles (9-5) for by eight points with about eight 20 (20) Garbine Blanco (Spain) 2043 to block everyone else out.” first place in the division after minutes left. REUTERS TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 28 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

2014 UIM F1 H2O World Championship Qatar’s Carella and Torrente set – Positions After Round 4: 1 Philippe Chiappe (FRA) China CTIC Team 50 pts for title showdown in Sharjah 2 Alex Carella (QAT) Qatar Team 47 pts 3 Shaun Torrente (QAT) Qatar Team 44 pts 4 Sami Selio (FIN) Mad-Croc Baba Frenchman Chiappe takes three-point lead into tense finale Racing Team 24 pts 5 Erik Stark (SWE) Team Nautica 23 SHARJAH: The Qatar we will have some luck and win it pts Team’s Alex Carella and Shaun like last year.” 6 Francesco Cantando (ITA) Motorglass Torrente will go head-to-head While all eyes will be on the F1 Team 21 pts with Frenchman Philippe battle between Carella, Torrente 7 Ahmed Al-Hameli (ARE) Team Abu Chiappe in a gripping three- and Chiappe, Finland’s double Dhabi 14 pts way dogfight to decide the out- World Champion Sami Selio is 7 Bartek Marszalek (POL) Motorglass F1 come of the UIM F1 H2O World due a change in fortune and Team Team 14 pts Championship at this weekend’s Abu Dhabi’s Thani Al Qamzi and 7 Thani Al-Qamzi (ARE) Team Abu Grand Prix of Sharjah. Ahmed Al Hameli will be hop- Dhabi 14 pts Attention will focus on what ing to end a disappointing season 10 Filip Roms (FIN) Mad-Croc Baba promises to be an intense bat- with a win. The ingredients are Racing Team 13 pts tle on the Khaled Lagoon course, there for an explosive finish to with Chiappe heading into the year. 11 Duarte Benavente (PRT) F1 GC Friday’s race with a three-point “I’ve struggled a bit recently,” Atlantic Team 12 pts lead over defending champion admitted Carella, who holds a 12 Jonas Andersson (SWE) Team Sweden Carella and a six-point lead over one-point lead over Torrente in 9 pts Carella’s team-mate Torrente. the fight for the UIM F1 H2O Pole 12 Marit Stromoy (NOR) Team Nautica 9 A win for either Chiappe or Position Championship. pts three-time champion Carella “The past few weeks have 14 Yousef Al-Rubayan (KWT) F1 GC would give them the world title, given me time to plan my strat- Atlantic Team 5 pts but Torrente needs to win out- egy and I really feel I’m in a 14 Xiong Ziwei (CHN) China CTIC Team 5 right and hope that Chiappe does great place physically and men- pts not finish second if he is to take tally and ready to take my fourth 16 Ivan Brigada (ITA) Caudwell Racing 4 the crown. straight championship. I like it pts A Torrente win and a second here. I beat Jay (Price) back in place for Carella would also be 2011 and Shaun and Philippe 17 Tomas Cermak (SVK) Caudwell Racing sufficient for the American to last year, so I’ve had good luck 1 pt claim his first crown. on Khaled Lagoon.” 2014 UIM F1 H20 Pole Position “This is going to be one of the Torrente is also upbeat about Championship – positions after round 4: most exciting races in history,” his chances: “I’m feeling the heat, 1 Alex Carella (QAT) Qatar Team 48 pts enthused Khalid bin Arhama but it’s all about going out and 2 Shaun Torrente (QAT) Qatar Team 47 Al-Kuwari, head of formula rac- having a good race. It’s that sim- to claim the title with one race pts ing at the Qatar Marine Sports ple really. Qualifying is so very to spare. 3 Philippe Chiappe (FRA) China CTIC Federation (QMSF). important here and I’ll be ready Teams will be permitted to Team 42 pts “It is very important that we for the challenge, believe me!” carry out two hours of unlimited 4 Jonas Andersson (SWE) Team Sweden find the right propeller for the Khalid Abdullah Al Kuwari free practice from 3.00pm (UAE Alex Carella will be 36 pts guys. We didn’t have the unoffi- and Mohammed Al Obaidly took time) on Wednesday afternoon. cial two-hour free practice in Abu control of two new Danish-built F-4S free practice and time aiming for a fourth 5 Sami Selio (FIN) Mad-Croc Baba Dhabi and that made us suffer Molgaard F-4S boats in Qatar trials take centre stage from UIM F1 H2O World Racing Team 35 pts to find the right propeller. They and they have quickly adapted to 09.00hrs on Thursday and the Championship 6 Yousef Al-Rubayan (KWT) F1 GC (race officials) have also changed their new race craft, as their sec- first of the F-4S Trophy races at title for the Qatar Atlantic Team 24 pts the course in Sharjah but we will ond and third places in Abu Dhabi 14.30hrs precedes the vital Pole Team in Sharjah 7 Erik Stark (SWE) Team Nautica 12 have two hours of unofficial free last month proved. Position competition for the main on Friday. RIGHT: pts practice and that is a big value They will be hoping to end the entrants, starting at 15.30hrs. Shaun Torrente will 8 Ahmed Al-Hameli (ARE) Team Abu for us. season with a first outright win Further free practice and be going all out for Dhabi 9 pts “Our plan is simple. Team Qatar in a pair of F-4S Trophy races F-4S time trials are scheduled a Qatar Team win in 8 Duarte Benavente (PRT) F1 GC Atlantic wins the World Championship. where Germany’s Mike Szymura for Friday morning and the final the GP of Sharjah. Team 9 pts I say to Alex and Shaun, go out takes a 25-point lead over young F-4S Trophy race fires into life 10 Francesco Cantando (ITA) Motorglass there and win the title for the Australian Briney Rigby on to at 14.30hrs. The Grand Prix of F1 Team 5 pts people who worked so hard to Khaled Lagoon. A win for the Sharjah will bring down the cur- bring you to the top. It’s a perfect German in Thursday’s opening tain on the season from 4.00pm. 10 Marit Stromoy (NOR) Team Nautica 5 course for our boats and hopefully, race would be sufficient for him THE PENINSULA pts Two Kenyan Rome to lead Italy’s runners fail drugs tests bid for 2024 Games ROME: Rome will spearhead an announce it will bid for the 2024 NAIROBI: Kenyan long-dis- Italian bid for the 2024 Olympic Games, but the Eternal City can tance runners Viola Chelangat Games, Prime Minister Matteo expect a tough competition. Kimetto and Joyce Jemutai Renzi said yesterday vowing The US Olympic Committee is Kiplimo have failed drugs tests a strong campaign to win the to decide this week between Los and will be banned for two years, event. Angeles, San Francisco, Boston Athletics Kenya said yesterday, Italy became the first to or Washington for a probable adding that tests from five other announce a bid taking advantage American bid. Kenyan athletes have aroused of new International Olympic The German Olympic Sports suspicion. Committee rules allowing events Confederation (DSOB) this Kimetto, who finished third to be staged in more than one city. month voted unanimously to bid in the 2012 Athens Marathon, Speaking at the headquarters to host the 2024 or 2028 Summer failed a urine drugs test at the of the Italian Olympic Committee Games, with Berlin or Hamburg Macau Galaxy Entertainment (CONI) during an end-of-year as the host city. International Marathon on medals ceremony, Renzi said: Paris is to decide in January December 1 last year. “We are standing side by side with whether to stage a bid and the Kiplimo CONI because in September 2015 Azerbaijan capital, Baku, and failed a dop- we will officially present our can- Doha -- both beaten by Tokyo in ing test taken didature to host the 2024 Olympic the bid to host the 2020 Games after the 2014 Games.” -- are potential candidates. Yangzhou Half The prime minister said Rome South Africa could be repre- Marathon, would be the centrepiece of the sented by bids from Durban or which she fin- Games bid but that “all the cit- a joint Johannesburg-Pretoria ished in 1:10:21 ies, from Florence and Naples to bid. in April. Sardinia” could be involved. Cities must make applications Both women Mercedes’ British driver Lewis Hamilton raises his trophy on the podium after winning the inaugural Russian “We don’t intend to simply by September 15 next year. The tested posi- Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Sochi Autodrom in Sochi on October 12, 2014. participate in the bidding proc- IOC will choose a final list of tive for noran- ess, this is a challenge we would candidate cities in May 2016 and dosterone. like to win. We will do every- make a final decision at a con- Athletics Kenya also asked five thing we can until 2017 when gress in Lima in mid 2017. other athletes to report to its the final decision is made,” The IOC last week passed a office by December 18 over “par- Hamilton clinches BBC Sports added Renzi. raft of reforms to make host- ticular issues revolving around The Italian capital, which ing the Games a more attractive doping cases” raised by its Medical last held the summer Games in and more affordable for bidding and Antidoping Commission. 1960, shelved plans to bid for the countries. The changes allow the In October, Kenya’s Rita Jeptoo Personality of the Year award 2020 event two years ago due Games to be hosted by two cities, (pictured), winner of the Boston to concerns over rising costs as or two countries. The cost of bid- and Chicago Marathons for the LONDON: Double Formula year,” he told McIlroy at the cer- McLaren in 2008, the 7/4 second the country battled an economic ding will also be cut. last two years, failed an out-of- One world champion Lewis emony in Glasgow. favourite. crisis. Turin held the Winter IOC President Thomas Bach competition doping test, and Hamilton, who won 11 Grands “Never in a million years did I Hamilton is the fifth racing Olympics in 2006. called the new rules “historic” was suspended from competition Prix for Mercedes in 2014, was think I would be up here standing driver to win the award in 61 But with new rules passed by and “a major step forward in pending testing of a B sample to named BBC Sports Personality with the greats,” added Hamilton, years, with champions Damon the IOC last week allowing coun- the organisation of the Olympic be done this week. of the Year against the odds on who had walked the pre-event red Hill and Nigel Mansell winning tries to stage competitions across Games.” Dozens of Kenyan athletes have Sunday night. carpet with his bulldog Roscoe. it twice after Stirling Moss and several cities, potential bidders The 2014 Winter Games in failed dope tests in the past two The award is widely regarded McIlroy, who won two majors in Jackie Stewart before them. are now able to spread the costs. Sochi cost Russia an estimated 50 years. Kenyan government offi- as Britain’s most prestigious 2014 and helped Europe retain the The Team of the Year award Renzi said he would put billion dollars and IOC members cials have blamed the growing cross-sports accolade. Ryder Cup, was a forlorn-looking went to England’s World Cup- together an “organisational struc- believe the spiralling costs have doping cases on foreign agents “I am so speechless,” said the runner-up with European 10,000 winning women’s rugby players ture” that would be “committed put many countries off hosting and Athletics Kenya’s failure to 29-year-old after a British public metres champion Jo Pavey third. while Europe’s triumphant Ryder to making sure Italy wins this the four-yearly showpiece. educate its athletes properly. vote that overturned the betting Bookmakers William Hill had Cup captain Paul McGinley was match”. Earlier this year Norway, Kenya’s Olympic Champion form, with bookmakers having listed the Northern Irishman coach of the year. He added: “Rome will be the Stockholm, Krakow and Lviv all David Rudisha last week said golfer Rory McIlroy as their clear at 2/5 earlier on Sunday with Real Madrid striker Cristiano centrepiece of the project, then it pulled out of the running to host Athletics Kenya was not doing favourite. Hamilton, who was runner-up Ronaldo took the overseas per- will be up to CONI to decide which the 2022 winter Olympics, leav- enough to tackle doping in the “I really was not expecting it. for the award in 2007 and again sonality of the year prize. other cities will be involved.” ing just Beijing and Almaty in the east Africa country. AFP Dude, you had such an amazing when he won his first title with REUTERS Rome is the first city to officially running. AFP TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 29 Amla seeks winning home captaincy start

CENTURION: Hashim Amla a century in 23 previous Test will be seeking a winning start innings, which have yielded only when he captains South Africa three fifties, while Elgar is a rela- for the first time in a home Test tive newcomer to the Test open- match when a three-match ing role. series against the West Indies Left-hander Stiaan van Zyl is Asser in action starts at SuperSport Park expected to make his Test debut during the 1900m tomorrow. in place of Duminy at number six dirt track race at Amla leapfrogged one-day or seven. South Africa still have the Qatar Racing international captain AB de world-class performers in Amla and Equestrian Club Villiers to be given the Test cap- and De Villiers, who are expected (QREC) in Doha, taincy following the retirement of at four and five, while the hosts yesterday. long-serving Graeme Smith last have a powerful fast bowling season. attack in Dale Steyn, Vernon Under Amla’s leadership, South Philander and Morne Morkel. Africa gained away wins against On a pitch that usually favours Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe earlier fast bowlers, the West Indian this year and his team will be bowling looks reasonable but a strong favourites to continue the perennial problem for the tour- winning run against a West Indian ists has been inconsistent batting. side with modest credentials. With Darren Bravo missing The West Indies have lost ten of for personal reasons and Chris 12 previous Tests in South Africa, Gayle because of injury, they are managing just one win and one likely to rely greatly on Marlon draw. They currently languish in Samuels, who hit a double century eighth place on the International in a warm-up match last week, Cricket Council Test rankings, and the 40-year-old Shivnarine while South Africa are number Chanderpaul. AFP one. There are some question marks about the home side’s bat- Teams ting order, however, following South Africa: Hashim Amla (captain), Alviro Brilliant Aseer claims Petersen, Dean Elgar, Faf du Plessis, AB de the retirements of Smith and Jacques Kallis, their all-time lead- Villiers, Stiaan van Zyl, Quinton de Kock (wkt), ing run-scorer, while the reliable Robin Peterson or Kyle Abbott, Vernon Philander, JP Duminy may miss the whole Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel. series because of a knee injury. West Indies: Denesh Ramdin (captain, wkt), The opening pair of Alviro Kraigg Brathwaite, Devon Smith, Leon Johnson, Ad Dibal Cup at QREC Petersen and Dean Elgar may Marlon Samuels, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, be vulnerable against experi- Jermaine Blackwood, Jason Holder, Kemar enced West Indian fast bowlers Roach, Jerome Taylor, Sulieman Benn, Sheldon Kemar Roach and Jerome Taylor, Cottrell, Assad Fudadin, Shannon Gabriel, Jockey Suerland steals show with four emphatic wins with Petersen not having made Chadwick Walton (wkt).

DOHA: Aseer yesterday at the straight. He looks in better stormed to Ad Dibal Cup win condition,” he said. with an emphatic run as jockey Earlier in race seven, Pearl Marvin Suerland celebrated Bridge emerged a runaway win- four impressive wins at the ner as jockey Suerland celebrated Qatar Racing and Equestrian his fourth win of the day. Club (QREC). Building on his fine start, Ridden by T O’Shea, Asser Suerland picked up pace at the edged Moaddie and Sraab to the end to seal win in the 1800m race winning post in the 1900m dirt with a time of 1:52.29 leaving One track race much to the delight Cool Bex and Exodus in second of trainer Mohammed Al Yaqout. and third spots respectively. “To be honest, I worked a lot on Pearl Bridge, trained by Z that horse. He had some stom- Mohsen, won by a length while ach issues. He wasn’t eating well. One Cool – ridden by Evert We had to work hard to prepare Pheiffer – secured the second him for this race,” Al Yaqout said spot ahead of Exodus who had after Aseer finished half a length Salem Golam in the saddle. ahead of Moaddie. Suerland emerged a convinc- “I only go for selected races. I ing winner with Emaad in race West Indies’ players are seen during the tour of India, in this October 2014 don’t like to play with that horse,” six, leaving Sunely Pride and file photo. The players refused to complete the tour due to a payment he added. Freckenham battling for the dispute with the West Indies Cricket Board. O’Shea was thrilled with the second spot in the 1800m contest. outcome that landed him the top Emad, trained by Mohsen, prize of QR57,000. topped the dirt track race with “I rode him in five races and he a time of 1:55.26 sealing the win Bosses, players blamed has won all five. He is a special three lengths ahead of Pride who horse to me,” O’Shea said. had Golam in the saddle. “He’s very tough and he’s very Third-placed Freckenham - genuine,” he added. with Amotasem Al Balushi in the for India tour fiasco “Today I just thought I will saddle – was engaged in a keen Jockey T O’Shea (left) receiving his trophy after riding Aseer to victory in reserve some petrol at the start tussle for the second spot but Ad Dibal Cup at the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) yesterday. PORT OF SPAIN: West Indies On this point, both the WICB and let go at the end. I quickened Pride crossed the winning post in cricket bosses, players and their and the West Indies Players union representatives were all Association (WIPA) were at fault. second spot. Rabha braved a late Monteriso in the saddle. Al blamed on Sunday for October’s “The Board and WIPA were Results onslaught from Ladys Sandman Mostarsil, given hot chase by catastrophic abandonment of attempting a sea-change in the to complete in race five. Rabha Hassiba, clocked a time of 1:19.04 the tour of India. financial arrangements for West L/B P/A MAIDEN PLATE topped the field with a time of in the 1200m race. In third spot The West Indies team left India Indian professional cricketers 1200M 2:06.84 giving O’Shea his first win was Nomaas who was ridden by four matches into a five-game without ensuring that there was Running Time: 1:18:77 of the evening. Ladys Sandman – Gary Carter. one-day series after a pay dispute understanding and acceptance by ridden by Golam – narrowed the In race two, Istara survived a between players and the board, the WICB’s employees, the tour- Sahaba Al Uraiq, Mohamed Riyaz, Declan Cannon; Sirat Al Naif, Y. Bentaher, Gerald Avranche; Nazala gap between him and Rabha but late onslaught by Meghwar to with the fifth one-dayer, a sub- ing cricketers,” added the task Al Naif, Bentaher, Marvin Suerland. failed to seal the win. win the 1800 contest. sequent Twenty20 international force. P/A MAIDEN PLATE Third-placed Al Nefor finished Ridden by Pheiffer, Istara and three Tests abandoned. “They both erred significantly 1800M three and a half lengths behind completed the win ahead of It was a decision which in failing to ensure that their Running Time: 2:06:91 Rabha. Meghwaar who had Mullen in prompted India to demand $42m vision for the future of West Suerland scored his second the saddle. In third place was Al in compensation and damages. Indies cricket with its ramifica- Istara, H. Al Matwi, Evert Pheiffer; Meghwaar, J. Smart, R. Mullen; Al Hattal, J. Smart, Alberto Sanna. win of the day when piloted Hattal with rider Alberto Sanna. A task force set up by the West tions for the sharing of sponsor- P/A HANDICAP RATED 50 - 80 Archers Prize past the winning Earlier in the evening, Sahaba Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has ship money and the concomitant 1200M post in race four. Archers Prize Al Uraiq started the day with spread the blame for the deba- changes in the level of remunera- Running Time: 1:19:04 finished with a time of 1:55.68 in a convincing win with jockey cle and laid out a raft of recom- tion for both the senior cricketers the 1800m race that saw Haayil - Declaan Cannon. Al Uraiq mendations ranging from clear and the new class of professional Al Mostarsil, Abdullah Al Jaber, Marvin Suerland; Hassiba, H. Al Matwi, Marco Monteriso; Nomaas, who had Stephan Ladjadj - claim completed the win with a time guidelines for players’ contracts players was clearly understood M. Hussain, Gary Carter. second spot. of 1:18.77. In second place was to appointing a team psychologist and the vision shared.” THOROUGHBRED GRADUATION PLATE Building on his fine start, Sirat Al Naif - ridden by Gerald for touring parties. However, the players, many of 1800M Archers Prize emerged a runa- Avranche – while Nazala Al Naif It also insisted on “bonding ses- whom have been locked in long- Running Time: 1:55:68 way winner in the end. who had Suerland in the saddle – sions” between officials and play- running disputes with the WICB, In third place was Khudoua finished third in the 1200m race. ers to help rescue the battered did not escape censure for aban- Archers Prize, Z. Mohsen, Marvin Suerland; Haayil, Jassim Al Ghazali, Stephan Ladjadj; Khudoua, ridden by R Mullen. Al Mostarsil Today at QREC the riders will reputation of a team which was doning the India tour despite Mohamed Riyaz, R. Mullen. posted a hardfought win by claim- return to battle for the Qatar once the most feared in the world knowing that David Cameron, P/A HANDICAP RATED 0 - 60 ing the honours in race three. National Day Trophy. The first of cricket. the president of the WICB, and 1800M Ridden by Suerland, Al Mostarsil of the eight-race series starts at “There is something fundamen- WIPA chief Wavell Hinds were pipped Hassiba who had Marco 4:00pm. THE PENINSULA tally wrong in sending a team to due to fly to India to hold talks Running Time: 2:07:61 faraway places with only an his- aimed at ending the crisis. Rabha, J. Smart, T. O’Shea; Ladys Sandman, Ahmed Kobeissi, S. Golam; Al Nefor, J. Smart, R. Mullen. torical view of their terms of “A significant proportion of the THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP RATED 55 - 75 employment and then to radically blame for the termination of the 1800M change those historical terms tour must also lie with the play- after they arrive in that distant ers, and in particular their lead- Running Time: 1:55:25 place,” said the report by the task ers,” added the statement. Emaad, Z. Mohsen, Marvin Suerland; Sunley Pride, Debbie Mountain, S. Golam; Freckenham, Bustawi Action at force which was made public late In all, eight recommendations Ismail, Almotasem Al Balushi. the the Sunday. were made by the task force THOROUGHBRED CONDITIONS Qatar “It was the conclusion of the which included: 1800M Racing and players in India that their com- Contracts must be given to pensation would be reduced by players at least three weeks Running Time: 1:53:18 Equestrian Club some 70 percent.” before a tour and signed one Pearl Bridge, Z. Mohsen, Marvin Suerland; One Cool Bex, I. Al Malki, Evert Pheiffer; Exodus, Ahmed The task force, which included week before the tour or players (QREC) Kobeissi,S. Golam. lawyers Michael Gordon and will be disqualified from selection, yesterday. AD DIBAL CUP - LOCAL THOROUGHBRED CONDITIONS Richard Cheltenham as well as the WICB should recruit a sports 1900M legendary former fast bowler psychologist for touring parties Wes Hall, said that it was wrong and the WICB should convene Running Time: 2:04:32 for the players to be left in the bonding sessions twice yearly Aseer, M. Al Yaqout, T. O’Shea; Moaddie, H Al Jehani, Marco Monteriso; Sraab, Ahmed Kobeissi, S. dark over their contractual between players, management Golam. entitlements. and the board. AFP TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 30 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT South Africa Zaqhwan crowned SuperSport beat Kiwis to defend champion in season finale Sevens title

PORT ELIZABETH, South Gupita clinches Underbone title despite huge crash at Losail Circuit Africa: South Africa defended their title on home soil by beat- ing current Series holders New DOHA: Malaysian Zaqhwan Results Zealand 26-17 in an enthralling Zaidi snatched the over- SuperSports 600cc final of the third round of the all SuperSports 600cc crown world sevens circuit on Sunday Race 1 from the grasp of Japanese duo night. Katsuaki Fujiwara and Yuki Ito 1.Zamri Baba (Honda) 31’37.305s 2.Zaqhwan Australia saw off Argentina to become the youngest rider to Zaidi (Honda) 31’37.371s 3.Yudhistira (Kawasaki) 34-19 for third place while the win the premier class in a thrill- 31’37.529s 4.Tomoyoshi Koyama (Honda) United States, coached by former ing Petronas Asia Road Racing 31’37.682s 5.Ratthapong Wilairot (Honda) England and Kenya tactician 31’38.187s Championship season finale at Mike Friday, stunned perennial the Losail International Circuit Race 2 stars Fiji 21-14 to win the Plate, here on Sunday night. 1.Zaqhwan Zaidi (Honda) 31’24.717s 2.Yuki Ito or fifth place. The Musashi Boon Siew (Yamaha) 31’25.097s 3.Zamri Baba (Honda) Canada were victorious in the Honda Racing rider was third 31’25.119s 4.Tomoyoshi Koyama (Honda) Bowl final, beating Kenya 24-5, in the standings, trailing leader 31’28.354s 5.Yudhistira (Kawasaki) 31’28.434s and Portugal took home the Fujiwara by 22 points heading Overall Standings Shield after a shock 19-14 win into Sunday’s final round. But the 1.Zaqhwan Zaidi (Honda) 170 points 2.Yuki over Samoa. 19-year-old Zaqhwan finished sec- Ito (Yamaha) 169 points 3.Katsuaki Fujiwara In the final, speedster Sherwin ond in Race 1 and then went on (Kawasaki) 155 points 4.Zamri Baba (Honda) 151 Stowers slid in for New Zealand’s to win Race 2 to emerge overall points 5.Tomoyoshi Koyama (Honda) 144 points first try after a mistake by the champion. Team Standings home side. In an intense battle, Zamri 1.Musashi Boon Siew Honda 246 points The ‘Boks hit back through a Baba aced Race 1 in 31:37.305 fol- 2.Petronas Hong Leong Yamaha 171 points stepping Phil Snyman, playmaker lowed by Zaqhwan (31:37.371) and 3.T.Pro Yuzy Honda NTS 171 points 4.BEET Cecil Afrika crossing for his 112th Manual Tech KYT Kawasaki’s Kawasaki Racing 154 points 5.Manual Tech KYT try for the Blitzbokke soon after Yudhistira (31:37.529). Action from the SuperSports Kawasaki 112 points to hand South Africa a seven- Oozing with confidence, 600cc race at the Losail Underbone 130cc point lead. Zaqhwan signed off the season Circuit on Sunday night. Race 1 On the hooter, Afrika was by wrapping up the gruelling RIGHT: Nasser bin Khalifa 1.Reza Fahlevy (Yamaha) 18’04.320s 2.Ahmad shown yellow, and the Kiwis hit 15-lap Race 2 in 31:24.717 ahead of Al Attiyah, Qatar Motor Fazrul Sham (Honda) 18’04.330s 3.Rusman back to 12-10 after Joe Webber Yuki (31:25.097). The 31-year-old finished in the corner. and Motorcycle Federation Fadil (Yamaha) 18’04.338s 4.Ferlando Herdian Zamri finished third in 31:25.119. Seabelo Senatla, outstanding all (QMMF) President and (Yamaha) 18’04.413s 5.Affendi Rosli (Yamaha) Fujiwara, representing BEET 18’04.415s weekend, scorched 50 metres for FIM Vice-President with Kawasaki Racing, missed out on Race 2 a try to open the scoring in the Gupita Kresna, winner of the his second overall title after he 1.Gupita Kresna (Kawasaki) 18’04.860s 2.Ahmad second period, Branco du Preez Underbone 130 category. finished both races outside the Fazrul Sham (Honda) 18’04.978s 3.Amirul Ariff nailing a fine conversion. top 10 due to his bike’s front-end Musa (Honda) 18’04.980s 4.Ferlando Herdian Webber then stepped inside suspension problems. would also like to extend my sin- (Yamaha) 18’04.990s 5.Affendi Rosli (Yamaha) and out to keep things more than Zaqhwan is only the third cere thanks and appreciation to 18’05.011s tense with five minutes left. Malaysian to win the premier the team, sponsors, family, friends Overall Standings But then Senatla, Afrika, class title after Chia Tuck and fans for believing and sup- 1.Gupita Kresna (Kawasaki) 176 points 2.Taiga Kwagga Smith and Werner Kok Cheong (2001) and Azlan Shah porting me all this while,” added Hada (Honda) 127 points 3.Amirul Ariff Musa were all involved before Smith Kamaruzaman (2013). Zaqhwan Zaqhwan. (Honda) 126 points 4.Norizman Ismail (Honda) was fed a brilliant pass to cross ended the season with 170 points, In the battle for the Asian 125 points 5.Kazuki Masaki (Honda) 123 points with 90 seconds left. just one ahead of Hong Leong Underbone 130cc overall title, performance of his career as he the best to all the riders for the Team Standings “It was an awesome game of Yamaha’s Ito. Fujiwara was third Gupita Kresna emerged cham- bagged his first podium finish future,” Al Attiyah said. rugby and physical to the death,” 1.T.Pro Yuzy Honda NTS 180 points 2.Kawasaki with a 155 total. pion with 176 points. with a second place, 2.386 seconds Al Attiyah, who was elected said South Africa skipper Kyle KYT Rextor Manual Tech 176 points 3.Harian “You dream about being cham- The Indonesian started on pole adrift of winner Khairul Idham as FIM Deputy President last Brown. Metro Y-TEQ SCK Honda Racing 163 points pion and dedicate your whole life in Race 1 but could only finish Pawi. The last named bid farewell month, took the opportunity to “You couldn’t ask for anything 4.PETRONAS Hong Leong Yamaha 150 points to it, so when it comes true it is 13th after a collision with Kazuki to the Asia Dream Cup on a high thank all the Asian members for 5.Faito Factory Racing 139 points more than to fight to victory on very special and amazing! I’m just Masaki of Team Honda RSC on as he chalked up another double their support and trust in him. home soil.” Asia Dream Cup really happy to make my coun- the front straight in the final lap. win. Having already wrapped “First of all I would like to One of the outstanding per- Race 1 try proud,” said an emotional Both riders escaped the crash up the championship title in thank to all the Asia members formances of the weekend Zaqhwan after the race. uninjured and Gupita was forced Thailand, Khairul could afford to that supported me and trusted 1.Khairul Idham Pawi (MAS) 17’53.697s 2.Aditya was undoubtedly that by the “We did not expect to win to push his Kawasaki to the fin- relax in Qatar, but it would simply me for the new position of Deputy Pangestu (INA) 18’03.502s 3.Teppei Nagoe (JPN) Americans, whose scalping of Fiji because this is only my third year ish line. see him perform better. FIM Vice President and I would 18’03.536s 4.Chuang An Yu (TPE) 18’03.547s is a good sign with all sides bat- racing in the premier class. But Indonesian Reza Fahlevy of Meanwhile, Nasser bin Khalifa like to encourage the rest of Asia 5.Harith Farhan Baharin (MAS) 18’03.558s tling for qualification for the Rio when we saw Ito and Fujiwara fin- Faito Factory Racing won in Al Attiyah, Qatar Motor and Members to have a bigger posi- Race 2 Olymics in 2016. ish outside the top five in Race 1, 18:04.320 followed by Ahmad Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) tions in the future. 1.Khairul Idham Pawi (MAS) 17’56.280s 2.Sarath Internet sprinting rugby player it became clear we actually stood Fazrul Sham (18:04.330) and President and FIM Vice President, “We have to show our ability Kumar (IND) 17’58.666s 3.Syunya Mori (JPN) sensation Carlin Isles opened a chance. Rusman Fadil (18:04.338). expressed his happiness in host- and potential, one of the strong- 17’58.700s 4.Aditya Pangestu (INA) 17’58.758s the scoring for the USA against “Zamri and I then cooked up a Gupita was undeterred by the ing the last round of the Petronas est continent and we have to be 5.Harith Farhan Baharin (MAS) 18’02.268s the Fijians, teammate Andrew strategy together. earlier crash and went on to win Asia Road Racing Championship confident all together to put our Overall Standings Durutalo doubling the score soon “I owe my win to Zamri. Race 2 in 18:04.860, 0.118 seconds in Qatar. signature in the future and we 1.Khairul Idham Pawi (MAS) 285 points 2.Aditya after. The South Sea islanders Without him holding Yuki and ahead of Ahmad Fazrul. “I am very happy to host the are committed to the FIM and to Pangestu (INA) 179 points 3.Teppei Nagoe (JPN) hit back through a brace from the rest of the field back, it would In the Asia Dream Cup, final round of this champion- worldwide motorcycle family,” Al 175 points 4.Syunya Mori (JPN) 143 points Savenaca Rawaca and Vatemo have been impossible to win. I Sarath Kumar turned in the best ship for fifth year and I wish all Attiyah said. THE PENINSULA 5.Chuang An-Yu (TPE) 130 points Ravouvou to level matters. AFP Italian Embassy and ICSS celebrate values of sport

DOHA: As part of the build up to the Italian Super Coppa to be held in Doha next week, the Italian Embassy and the Mohammed International Centre for Sport Hanzab, Security hosted a special recep- President tion to celebrate the values of of the sport. With leaders and high-level International representatives from the diplo- Centre matic and sport community of for Sport Qatar in attendance, the event Security presented an opportunity for an (ICSS) exchange of new ideas, knowl- speaking at edge and personal experiences the special about how to protect the values reception of sport and ways to empower to celebrate youth. the values Save the Dream – a joint pro- of sport gramme of the ICSS and Qatar in Doha Olympic Committee that pro- yesterday. motes and protects the core values of sport for young people at a glo- bal level was presented, highlight- ing the many positive initiatives it had delivered. This included recent projects experience for the good of other particularly in countries which world needs peace and sport can focussing on social inclusion, gen- nations.” “I am very glad that have been affected by conflicts or carry this message.” der issues and child protection in Qatar will host on 22 December crisis.” During the event, Save the India, Brazil and Haiti. the Italian Super Cup and most “Save the Dream is both a tool Dream Youth Ambassadors Speaking at the event, H importantly that it is not just to empower youth and build bet- from the International School E Guido De Sanctis, Italian a match but a joint global call, ter societies through the power of of London, Qatar escorted the Ambassador to Qatar, said: “Some launched from Doha, for the pro- sport values, and an instrument diplomatic representatives and of the initiatives that Italy has tection of sport values to preserve to protect most vulnerable cat- shared their thoughts on how to developed to promote and protect the future of our youth. Thanks to egories from misconducts hap- use sport as a tool to empower the values of sport, mainly for the the popularity of Italian football, I pening in sport.” youth. good of youth, have been designed am sure that the message of Save “Save the Dream is ready A feature of the event included and implemented in cooperation the Dream will be heard by many to strengthen its role in other an exhibition of images taken by with Save the Dream.” people all around the world.” regions and countries of the Magnum during the 2014 FIFA “At the same time, I am proud Mohammed Hanzab, President world. World Cup in Brazil that show- H E Guido De Sanctis, Italian Ambassador to Qatar, speaking at a special to say that many Italian athletes, of the International Centre for “I do hope all the nations rep- cases the emotion, spirit, passion reception to celebrate the values of sport at an event hosted by Italian institutions and organisations Sport Security (ICSS) said: resented in this reception will join and humanity of sport through Embassy and the International Centre for Sport Security in Doha yesterday. have contributed to build this glo- “Sport is a unique tool to pro- forces to promote a real Olympic contemporary imagery. bal programme and shared their mote dialogue and normalization, Truce in view of Rio 2016. The THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 31

Europa League PARIS: The draw for the last 32 of the Europa League made yesterday in Nyon: Young Boys (SUI) vs Everton (ENG) Aguirre, Herrera named in Torino (ITA) vs Athletic Bilbao (ESP) Sevilla (ESP) vs Borussia Moenchengladbach (GER) Wolfsburg (GER) vs Sporting Lisbon (POR) Ajax (NED) vs Legia Warsaw (POL) Aalborg (DEN) vs Brugge (BEL) Anderlecht (BEL) vs Dynamo Moscow (RUS) Spanish match-fixing case Dnipro (UKR) vs Olympiakos (GRE) MADRID: Spanish prosecu- against Levante, who had already the group stages without a win. the same amounts in cash and Trabzonspor (TUR) vs Napoli (ITA) tors filed match-fixing alle- escaped relegation that season, However, last week Japan gave them to Levante players as Guingamp (FRA) vs Dynamo Kiev (UKR) gations against Japan coach with two goals from Zaragoza’s Football Association (JFA) presi- a “bribe” to throw the match, the Villareal (ESP) vs FC Salzburg (AUT) Javier Aguirre and Manchester then captain Gabi Fernandez. dent Kuniya Daini said that they prosecutors said. Roma (ITA) vs Feyenoord (NED) United midfielder Ander Spanish sports daily Marca wouldn’t have hired Aguirre if “The deeds described consti- PSV Eindhoven (NED) vs Zenit St Petersburg (RUS) Herrera on Monday, accusing said that if the case goes to trial they had been aware of the tute sporting fraud,” the pros- Liverpool (ENG) vs Beskitas (TUR) them and 39 others of rigging a and the accused are found guilty, match-fixing scandal. ecutors wrote. Tottenham (ENG) vs Fiorentina (ITA) decisive 2011 league match. they could face jail sentences of Herrera, 25, played for Among those accused, In a court filing, state prosecu- up to four years. Zaragoza in the match in ques- Fernandez, 31, current captain Celtic (SCO) vs Inter Milan (ITA) tors alleged Real Zaragoza play- Zaragoza’s directors, coaches tion on May 21, 2011. of Spanish league champions Matches will be played on February 19 and 26 ers and staff handed hundreds and captains “agreed... with the Manchester United bought Atletico Madrid, denied the of thousands of euros in cash to consent of rest of the players, to him for £28.8m from Athletic match was fixed, when ques- Levante players to let Zaragoza fix the match”, the prosecutors Bilbao last June in one of the first tioned by prosecutors in a pre- Celtic face Inter win the last match of the sea- alleged. signings by the English side’s vious hearing in the case on son that year and thereby avoid They listed five staff and new coach Louis van Gaal. October 2. test, Liverpool relegation. 18 players of Zaragoza plus 18 Yesterday’s filing was submit- He said the payment was a The prosecutors said Zaragoza Levante players among the Javier Aguirre ted to a judge in the eastern city bonus and that he returned it paid a total of 965,000 euros accused. of Valencia. in cash when the club asked for face Besiktas in ($1.2m) into the bank accounts Mexican Aguirre, 56, was coach Espanyol. He was named The judge will decide whether it back a few days later, judicial of certain of its coaches, staff and Zaragoza coach at the time but coach of Japan’s national side last to open a formal judicial sources said. Real Zaragoza filed Europa League players. was fired a few months into the June after Japan were knocked investigation. for bankruptcy protection in Zaragoza won the match 2-1 following season and went on to out of the World Cup in Brazil in The recipients then withdrew June 2011. AFP PARIS: Celtic face a tricky Europa League last-32 tie after being drawn yesterday against Italy’s Inter Milan as Liverpool take on gritty Turkish side Besiktas. For former European heavy- PSG suffer shock weights Liverpool it will be a return to Istanbul, the scene of their memorable 2005 Champions League final victory over AC Milan in which current skipper Steven Gerrard scored. first league defeat However Celtic face a difficult clash against a side who have won Europe’s second-tier competition Guingamp register 1-0 win; Marseille lose three times. Liverpool, also three-time win- ners, who were dumped out of PARIS: Star-studded Paris second yellow after a clash with the Champions League by Swiss Saint Germain slumped to a sec- Ligue 1 Results Nice’s Carlos Eduardo, who was side Basel last week, won their ond defeat in a week as they lost Results from the Ligue 1 matches on also given a straight red for his last meeting with Besiktas 8-0 their unbeaten French Ligue 1 Sunday night studs in the face challenge. in the 2007-08 elite European record when lowly Guingamp Monaco 1 Olympique Marseille 0 “He got kicked in the face, I competition. beat them 1-0 on Sunday night. En Avant Guingamp 1 Paris St Germain 0 can’t explain it,” said Galtier of Zlatan Ibrahimovic (left) of PSG vies for the ball against Lars Jacobsen Titleholders Sevilla will But the shock reverse was Lille 3 Toulouse 0 the second yellow. “The guy from (front) of EA Guingamp during the French Ligue 1 match at the be up against Borussia softened when league leaders Nice deserved his red though.” Moenchengladbach, fourth in Nice 0 St Etienne 0 Roudourou Stadium in Guingamp, France, on Sunday night. Marseille, on 38 points, also lost On Saturday a freak own goal the Bundesliga, in a tie between 1-0 at Monaco in Sunday’s late “It was poor marking all round, helped Nantes to a 2-1 win over teams who have won the competi- game, leaving the champions sec- even me I got it wrong,” said PSG Bordeaux to end a three-match tion, or its predecessor the UEFA ond just a point adrift of the top midfielder Blaise Matuidi. losing run thanks to Jordan Cup, five times between them. and Lyon third on 36 points. “We’re really upset. We’re just Veretout’s opener, cancelled out McCoist steps down English side Tottenham will Victory would have made not used to losing and now that’s by Kian Hansen’s own goal. take on Italy’s Fiorentina while Marseille ‘Champions of Autumn’, two in a week.” In the 66th minute Bordeaux’s Everton were drawn against league leaders going into the win- Edinson Cavani had hit the young Slovenian reserve keeper Swiss side Young Boys in the first ter break, but Bernardo Silva’s crossbar in the second minute Azbe Jug haplessly scored the as Rangers manager tie out of the UEFA pots in Nyon, precise shot from the edge of and Zlatan Ibrahimovic had the decider when the ball, rebound- Switzerland on Monday. the area on 68 minutes handed ball in the net in the 35th minute ing off a post, struck him on the LONDON: Ally McCoist has “His service contract dated 28 Spanish side Villarreal have Monaco a deserved win. only to see an offside flag go up. head and ended up in his own net. quit as manager of troubled December 2010, which was subse- drawn Salzburg, who they met Fresh from securing their PSG had ten wins and seven Rennes were thwarted 2-0 at Scottish giants Rangers and quently amended, has a 12-month in the 2009-10 group stage with passage into the last-16 of the draws going into the game and, Bastia, playing much of the game entered a 12-month notice notice period. the Austrian outfit winning both Champions League as group win- despite dominating, Guingamp’s a man down after Fallou Diagne’s period, the Championship club “The directors will hold discus- games. ners on Tuesday, Monaco’s dis- bloody-minded resistance was 26th minute red card. announced yesterday. sions with Mr McCoist to seek Guingamp, the only French ciplined display left the usually eventually more than a match A first half stoppage time McCoist, a former Rangers an amicable solution in the best club left in the competition, will swashbuckling Marseille frus- for the Qatari-backed PSG side. goal from Ryad Boudebouz and striker who had been in charge interests of the company, and play Ukrainian side Dynamo trated. Rod Fanni missed a sim- “This is not just a bad week, it’s Yannick Cahuzac’s effort nine for two years, stepped down after expect to be in a position to make Kiev as they look to continue ple chance for the visitors with a dreadful one,” said PSG coach minutes from time earned Bastia media reports said he was set to a further announcement before their fairytale run following their an open goal begging just before Laurent Blanc. a precious fourth win of the resign amid growing pressure the end of the week.” The former first qualification for the Europa half-time, and Marseille’s star “If we lose because the other season. from fans of the fallen Glasgow Scotland striker’s salary will League last 32 by ending Paris striker Andre-Pierre Gignac was side were good that’s one thing, Reims’ Brazilian midfielder side. revert back to £750,000 per year Saint-Germain’s unbeaten Ligue kept quiet. but this we cannot tolerate.” Rigonato scored either side of the But despite the announcement, after the 52-year-old took a 50 1 run this season on Sunday. PSG president Nasser Lille, dumped out of the Europa break in Reims’ pulsating defeat McCoist reported for training as percent wage cut earlier this year. Russian side Dynamo Moscow Al-Khelaifi had been furious as League in midweek, picked up of Evian, while on a high-scoring usual at the club’s Murray Park Rangers, who have won the will play modest Belgian side his side lost 3-1 in Barcelona on three welcome points with a 3-0 day in the French top flight Lens training facility on Monday and Scottish league title a record Anderlecht as Germany’s Wednesday. But Sunday’s per- win over Toulouse, thanks to goals came from behind to salvage a 3-3 was seen guiding his players 54 times, currently play in the Wolfsburg take on Sporting formance was far worse. from Djibril Sibide, Ryan Mendes draw at Montpellier. through drills. country’s second tier. They were Lisbon, and Ukrainian side Jeremy Pied got Guingamp’s and Nolan Roux. On Friday, Ligue 1’s lead- “The company announces that relegated from the top-flight Dniepropetrovsk have drawn goal with a flying header on the Earlier, Saint Etienne coach ing scorer Alexandre Lacazette Alastair (sic) McCoist, man- Scottish Premiership, which they Olympiakos of Greece. edge of the six-yard box in the Christophe Galtier was left with grabbed a brace as Lyon beat ager of the first-team squad, have traditionally dominated with The first-leg matches will be 11th minute with the Paris central a bitter taste after a 0-0 stale- bottom club Caen 3-0 to make it has resigned,” Rangers said in a Celtic, to the fourth tier in 2012 played on February 19, with the defence of Thiago Silva and David mate with Nice saw his midfielder eight consecutive home wins. statement to the London Stock as punishment for major financial return fixtures seven days later. Luiz nowhere to be seen. Ismael Diomande sent off for a AFP Exchange. problems. AFP Chelsea, Liverpool eye League Cup

LONDON: Premier League Middlesbrough, and are bidding dumped holders Manchester leaders Chelsea and beleaguered League Cup Fixtures to reach the semi-finals for the United out of the FA Cup in 1984, Liverpool will be among the (all 1945 GMT) first time since 2009. will be appearing in the League teams bidding to take a step Today While Chelsea have been in Cup quarter-finals for the first closer to Wembley when the Derby County vs Chelsea, cruise control since mid-August, time. Tottenham and Newcastle Real Madrid League Cup reaches the quar- Sheffield United vs Southampton Liverpool’s campaign has lurched approach their encounter at Marcelo dur- ter-final stage this week. Tomorrow from one disaster to another. White Hart Lane on Wednesday ing their team’s Both sides face second-tier Bournemouth vs Liverpool, Tottenham Brendan Rodgers’s side crashed on the back of contrasting results training ses- opposition, with Chelsea visiting Hotspur vs Newcastle United to a demoralising 3-0 defeat at in the league. sion in Rabat, Derby County today and Liverpool arch rivals Manchester United in Spurs climbed to seventh Morocco, travelling to new Championship teams of the past until they win the league on Sunday, days after place in the table after Christian yesterday. leaders Bournemouth tomorrow. something. limping out of the Champions Eriksen scored an 89th-minute Real Madrid In the only all-Premier League “This team has huge potential,” League in the group phase. winner in a 2-1 win against will face Cruz tie, Tottenham Hotspur host said the Czech, who stood in for As such, a positive result at Swansea City on Sunday, whereas Azul in the FIFA Newcastle United, while the third the injured Thibaut Courtois in Bournemouth would help to ban- Newcastle crashed to a 4-1 defeat division’s sole representatives, Saturday’s 2-0 win over Hull City ish some of the storm-clouds at Arsenal. “We have a massive Club World Sheffield United, host out-of-form and is expected to keep his place gathering over the club, but Eddie cup tie now and then if we can just Cup semi- Southampton. for the trip to Pride Park. Howe’s team are riding the crest get through this period now with final match The League Cup holds special “It has been doing really well of a wave after sinking Cardiff another seven, eight or maybe in Marrakech significance for Chelsea manager this season, we are top of the City 5-3 on Saturday to claim top nine points, then we are going to today. Jose Mourinho, as he won the league and have been doing some spot in the Championship. be in a great position and that is 2005 tournament in his first sea- brilliant games. “Everybody that works what we have to focus on,” said son at the club and went on to “But we are empty-handed at here works extremely hard,” Newcastle manager Alan Pardew, lift the trophy for a second time the moment, and I don’t like to Bournemouth assistant coach whose side had ended Chelsea’s in 2007. compare the teams until the sea- Jason Tindall told BBC radio. unbeaten start to the campaign Chelsea have made a sensa- son is finished.” “That’s our ethos, that’s our in their previous outing. tional start to the campaign, Derby, coached by former philosophy, and it’s nice to see Southampton are desperate losing only one of their first 24 England manager Steve we’re performing well and getting for a positive result after a run of games in all competitions, but McClaren, currently sit third in our rewards for all the hard work four straight defeats that has seen goalkeeper Petr Cech says they the Championship, a point below that everybody has put in.” them slip out of the Champions cannot be compared to the great Bournemouth and second-place Bournemouth, who famously League places. AFP Tuesday 16 December 2014 24 Safar 1436 Volume 19 Number 6281 Sport Price: QR2 SRI LANKA’S WEEKLY NEWS UPDATES Bryant passes Qatar Team    Jordan in list of set for title leading scorers showdown LANKADEEPA MIDDLE EAST WEEKLY PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY BY DAR AL SHARQ                  !"#$%&'()#*#+,'-*,)# Sport | 27 Sport | 28

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Champions PSG to take on Chelsea, League Last 16 Draw Reactions

Reactions to the draw for the Champions League last 16 round, which was made yesterday. City face Barca in last 16 Paris St Germain (France) vs Chelsea (England)

% Olivier Letang, PSG deputy sporting PSG President Al Khelaifi upbeat about clash against Blues in February director, said: “Chelsea are a very good team but we also have our strengths. The important thing is to be ready in February.” PARIS: Jose Mourinho’s %David Barnard, Chelsea club secretary, Chelsea were drawn yestereday Champions League said: “PSG are known to us as we played them against Paris Saint-Germain in the quarters last year and they’ve got David and Manchester City tackle Last 16 Draw Luiz playing for them too. Barcelona in two blockbuster PARIS: The draw for the %“It’s a good draw logistically too for our Champions League last 16 ties. Champions League last 16 supporters. Chelsea’s ‘reward’ for sailing made yesterday %“Both sides have very different squads into the knockout stages unbeaten Paris Saint-Germain (FRA) vs Chelsea (ENG) from last year, so if it was PSG or anyone else, was a testing match-up against it would’ve been the same situation.” the Qatari-backed French cham- Manchester City (ENG) vs Barcelona (ESP) pions who they beat on away goals Bayer Leverkusen (GER) vs Atletico Madrid Manchester City (England) vs in last season’s quarter-finals. (ESP) Barcelona (Spain) Chelsea secretary David Juventus (ITA) vs Borussia Dortmund (GER) %Txiki Begiristain, Manchester City director Barnard told Sky Sports News: Schalke 04 (GER) vs Real Madrid (ESP) of football and former Barcelona player, told “PSG are known to us as we Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR) vs Bayern Munich Sky Sports: “Every tie in that draw is the same, played them in the quarters last (GER) it’s fantastic, so we’re looking forward to it. year and they’ve got David Luiz Arsenal (ENG) vs Monaco (FRA) %“We have plenty of confidence with the playing for them too. way we qualified beating Bayern Munich at “It’s a good draw logistically too Basel (SUI) vs Porto (POR) home and Roma away, so the players will be for our supporters. are going to look forward to it. working hard to get fit and arrive in confidence “Both sides have very different “Manchester City have an out- for those games. squads from last year, so if it was standing squad with a very good % “We have improved our squad from PSG or anyone else, it would’ve coach, a very good team and are last season and we have some real quality been the same situation.” very competitive.” up front.” PSG President Nasser Al The last 16 draw staged at % Andoni Zubizarreta, Barcelona sport- Khelaifi said his club had to learn UEFA’s headquarters in Nyon, ing director, told Canal Plus: “It’s a great from last season’s meeting with Switzerland, gave holders Real tie against a great rival, a team we know the 2012 winners. Madrid a palatable pairing against extremely well. “Last year was an apprentice- German side Schalke 04, coached % “There is no doubt that we will go to ship which must not be repeated.” by Roberto Di Matteo, who was in Manchester and be true to our ideas, push- He added: “Chelsea are a good charge of Chelsea when they were ing into the opponent’s half and going on the draw for us. I am very confi- crowned kings of Europe. attack dent. I’ve got confidence in my Real met Schalke in last sea- % “There is still a long way to go until manager and in my players that son’s last 16, easing through 9-2 February and let’s see what shape each team they’ll show on the pitch the best on aggregate, en route to their is in when the tie comes around.” of PSG.” tenth title. A board shows the draw for the UEFA Champions League round of 16 next to the trophy, yesterday at the UEFA Juventus (Italy) vs Borussia Dortmund Like PSG, English champions “We have the utmost respect headquarters in Nyon. City will be out for revenge after for Schalke, a club with whom (Germany) being brushed aside 4-1 on aggre- we have a great relationship. %Juventus director Pavel Nedved, said: “ gate by Barca at this stage in the they are very competitive, one giants Bayern Munich, who beat “As the draw came out, it was to qualify, but we believe in our We have to be very careful because Dortmund 2013/2014 campaign. lapse in concentration can take Borussia in the 2013 final, play evident a lot of the big teams had qualification chances. “But we have young, talented players. City’s director of football, its toll,” said Real director Emilio Shakhtar Donetsk. gone, so we’re pleased to have still have to be careful because %“There are a few teams who are almost former Barcelona player Txiki Butragueno. “Donetsk are the least known avoided them. Dortmund are a really strong impossible to compete with, so we are happy Begiristain, said: “We have plenty “The balls come out as they side in the last 16, so it won’t be “We’re certainly not taking side,” added the former Juve to have a side against whom we have a of confidence with the way we come out, of course, we are the so easy to prepare for this game,” anything for granted though midfielder. chance. qualified beating Bayern Munich outsiders, but there is always the said Bayern goalkeeper Manuel against Monaco.,: he said. Swiss outfit Basel’s reward for % “I’m a big fan of (Juergen) Klopp and at home and Roma away, so the old football saying; “form beats Neuer. “It’s the first time we’ve played knocking out Liverpool at the I’m curious to see our level in Europe. The players will be working hard to class”,” said Schalke board mem- “I think it’s goood to finally them in a competitive match, so group stage was a match-up with games against Dortmund will give us a clear get fit and arrive in confidence for ber Peter Peters optimistically play someone different and not Arsene Wenger will be delighted two-time winners Porto. indication of that.” those games. Last year’s beaten finalists Arsenal again,” Dutch winger to go back to one of his former The last 16 first leg games are %Hans-Joachim Watzke, Dortmund CEO, “We have improved our squad Atletico Madrid come up against Arjen Robben added while clubs.” scheduled for 17/18 and 24/25 said: “Juventus have great international expe- from last season and we have Bayer Leverkusen. expressing his views. Juventus were similarly February, with the second legs rience. It will be a tough opponent, no question some real quality up front.” Arsenal, finalists in 2006, face Arsenal are appearing in the relieved to avoid Bayern and Real. on 10/11 and 17/18 March. about that. It will be 50-50. Barcelona representative their coach Arsene Wenger’s old knockout stages for the 17th suc- “For us, the draw has been The final for Europe’s elite %“We always had great meetings with Juve Andoni Zubizarreta said: “It is the club Monaco, Italian champions cessive season, and club secretary quite kind,” said club director club competition will take place and we expect the same now. It (draw) could same draw we had a year ago, it Juventus will have to overcome David Miles reflected on their Pavel Nedved. in Berlin’s Olympic Stadium on have been worse it could have been better.” was a very difficult game and we Borussia Dortmund, and German favourable match-up. “I won’t say Juve are going June 6. AFP

Clarke to undergo Smith named captain for India series MELBOURNE: Steven Smith Haddin suggests Clarke’s hopes of Cricket Australia’s (cricket.com. will captain Australia’s Test leading Australia or even playing au) website. surgery team for the rest of the series again remained in grave doubt, Smith has prior experience against India, with regular as Clarke himself suggested to as a skipper, leading New South SYDNEY: Australian captain skipper Michael Clarke’s career reporters after Australia won the Wales state in domestic competi- Michael Clarke will undergo in serious doubt due to persist- Adelaide Test by 48 runs. tion and the Sydney Sixers in the surgery on his injured right ent injury problems. With Clarke sidelined, Smith local Twenty20 league. Australia’s hamstring on Tuesday, Cricket Batsman Smith, aged 25 years could also be in line to lead Since carving up Sydney’s Steven Smith Australia said, as the 33-year- and 195 days, becomes Australia’s Australia into the 50-over World grade cricket scene as a teenager, old fights to remain in the game. youngest Test captain since Kim Cup starting in February on home Smith has long been marked for (left) celebrates Clarke has switched focus to Hughes who was named in 1979 soil. The initial squad is due to be big things, and made his first class reaching his getting fit for the World Cup at 25 years and 57 days, and the named on Jan. 7. debut for New South Wales at the century as in Australia and New Zealand, third-youngest all-time. Smith will be a popular choice age of 18. team-mate Brad which starts on February 14, after Smith was in a two-horse race as captain, a position dubbed the By 21, he had represented Haddin looks being forced off in the victorious with wicketkeeper Brad Haddin “second highest office” after that Australia in all Test, one-day on during the first Test against India at the to replace the 33-year-old Clarke, of the Prime Minister in cricket- international and T20 teams, fifth Ashes Test weekend. who suffered yet another ham- mad Australia. making his Test debut against at The Oval in “Michael will be undergoing string strain during Australia’s The right-handed batsman and Pakistan at Lord’s in 2010, and London, in this surgery tomorrow,” team doctor victory charge on day five of the part-time legspinner has scored a scoring 77 in second Test against August 2013 file Peter Brukner said. first Test in Adelaide on Saturday. mountain of runs over the past 12 the same opponents at Leeds. photo. “Whilst surgery is not always Haddin, who will deputise months and shown an impressive He brings impressive form required with hamstring injuries, for Smith as vice-captain, had poise under fire at odds with his into his debut as captain, the Michael has substantial damage been seen as a viable short-term boyish features. second Test starting in Brisbane to a key part of the hamstring replacement for Clarke, but at 37 “We congratulate Steve on on Saturday, having blasted an tendon and it was felt the best and in waning form with the bat, the wonderful honour of lead- unbeaten 162 in the first innings course of action was to surgically was not a long-term prospect. ing his country,” chairman of in Adelaide and 52, also unbeaten, repair the damaged area.” AFP Smith’s selection ahead of selectors Rod Marsh said on in the second. REUTERS