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SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 • 30 Jumada II 1436 • Volume 20 Number 6405 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 4455 7741 | Advertising: 4455 7837 / 4455 7780

South Africa xenophobic violence spreads Ezdan malls to Social media open on Oct 1 DOHA: The malls belonging to Ezdan Holding Group in Al Wukair and Al Wakra will open campaign to by the year-end, according to a top official of the real estate giant. “Al Wukair mall will open on October 1, while the mall in Al Wakra may open on November fight crime 3 or December 3,” said Ali Al Obaidly, Group CEO of Ezdan Holding. He said the company has Qatar launches Tweet For Justice not yet started leasing out spaces in the malls. DOHA: The 13th UN Crime in the presence of Maj Gen THE PENINSULA Congress yesterday saw the Abdullah Yousuf Al Mal, Advisor Full report on page 2 launch of a new social media to the Minister of Interior and initiative by host country Qatar Chairperson of the Preparatory New MoI HQ to to fight local and international Committee. crime. “From the proceedings of the open in December The Media Committee under 13th UN Crime Congress, we the Preparatory Committee of realised that fighting crime truly DOHA: A new headquarters the 13th UN Crime Congress relies on the sustained involve- for the Ministry of Interior launched “Tweet For Justice”, an ment of everyone — beyond the will open in Wadi Al Sail in initiative to use social media to duration of the Congress itself. December this year, Al Sharq ensure continuous engagement of This is why we developed the reported. This will replace the policy makers, social media activ- idea of Tweet For Justice,” said ministry’s existing premises on ists, law enforcement agencies Abdullah Khalifa Al Muftah, Mozambique national Emmanuel Sithole is attacked by men in Alexandra township during anti-immigrant the Corniche. and the public in efforts towards Head of the Media Committee. violence in Johannesburg, South Africa, yesterday. He later died of his injuries. Report on page 12 THE PENINSULA crime prevention and the promo- “Tweet For Justice” aims to tion of criminal justice. continue the dialogue between the The public can share their public and law enforcement agen- thoughts about crime prevention cies to make sure that the essence and criminal justice using the of the Doha Declaration — that Fewer heat exhaustion cases last year: Official hashtag #tweet4justice. sustainable development and the “The popularity and integra- rule of law were strongly inter- tion of social media with tradi- related and mutually reinforcing DOHA: Heat exhaustion cases SCH has asked companies and workers and protect them from the community is now fully aware tional forms of communication — is made the basis of future law decreased in Qatar last year organisations to comply with the occupational injuries caused by of heat exhaustion, its symptoms have created new opportunities enforcement policies. compared to the previous summer working hours for out- working at improper places. and methods of prevention. for the public to conduct a con- “It is but fitting for us to launch three years due to increased door jobs that will be in force from The workshop was organised Prevention is very important tinuing dialogue with law enforce- this social media initiative since awareness among workers and July 15 to August 31. Companies by the SCH in collaboration with and employers must provide ment agencies. This can foster Qatar has the advantage of being employers about preventive that violate this rule will face a the Hamad Medical Corporation adequate awareness and training understanding, cooperation and one of the most networked-ready measures, a senior official of one-month closure. (HMC), Ministry of Labor to their staff to understand the a more comprehensive approach nations in the world,” added Al the Supreme Council of Health Addressing a workshop titled and Social Affairs and Qatar effect of heat exhaustion and ways to countering all forms of crime, Muftah. The 13th UN Crime (SCH) has said. “Beware of Heat Exhaustion”, Petroleum. It was attended by to prevent it, and take extra pre- violence, corruption and terror- Congress that concludes today About 800 heat exhaustion Dr Mohamad bin Hamad experts from SCH Occupational cautions to ensure workers’ safety ism, and to ensuring coordinated, saw a record 230 meetings and cases were reported in Qatar in Al-Thani, director of Public Health Section and occupational like providing enough water and coherent implementation,” the workshops over eight days. 2014, which the SCH said pointed Health at SCH, said it has health officials from private com- shaded rest areas. committee said in a statement . Continued on page 6 to a decline factoring in the popu- launched a campaign to reduce panies and organisations. Continued on page 6 The project was launched THE PENINSULA lation growth in the country. The heat exhaustion injuries among Mohamad Al Thani said that THE PENINSULA Saudi pledges $274m for Yemen as raids continue SANA’A: Saudi Arabia pledged yesterday to cover the entire $274m in humanitarian aid sought by the UN for conflict- torn Yemen, where a Saudi-led coalition has been bombing Shia rebels for three weeks. The United Nations says hun- dreds of people have died and thousands of families fled their homes in the war, which has also killed six Saudi security personnel in border skirmishes. At least 27 people died in the southwestern city of Taez during overnight clashes between loyal- ist forces and the Iran-backed Shia Houthi rebels, as well as in coalition air raids, medical sources said. That followed strikes by coali- tion warplanes on Friday around the Houthi rebel-held capital Sana’a, where thick clouds of grey A man walks past cars allegedly destroyed in an air strike by the Saudi-led smoke and a fireball rose from one coalition in Sana’a, Yemen, yesterday. military post. Custodian of the Two Holy for $274m in emergency assist- “the restoration of security and Mosques King Salman bin ance for the millions affected by stability”, the state Saudi Press Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia ordered Yemen’s war. Agency said, quoting an official the humanitarian pledge following The kingdom “stands with its statement. AFP a United Nations appeal on Friday Yemeni brothers” and hopes for See also page 7

IS kills 33 in Afghanistan Ships run aground in Suez JALALABAD: The Islamic State group claimed CAIRO: A container ship ran aground in Egypt’s responsibility for a suicide attack in Afghanistan Suez Canal in dense mist yesterday morning, the yesterday that killed 33 people and wounded more canal authority said, delaying traffic through a than 100 others, President Ashraf Ghani said, in vital global trade route for several hours. what appears to be the first major attack by the A Maersk Line spokesman told Reuters the jihadists in the country. Ghani’s government has Danish-flagged Susan Maersk sustained no dam- repeatedly raised the ominous prospect of IS mak- age or casualties. Sources in the canal authority ing inroads into Afghanistan. AFP said another ship in the same convoy had also ran See also page 13 aground. REUTERS SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 02 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME Ezdan to open Wukair, Wakra malls soon Space leasing yet to start: Official

BY MOHAMMAD SHOEB The group had earlier decided to exit from the real estate sector DOHA: The upcoming malls of for the next five years to invest Ezdan Holding Group located in in Shariah-compliant companies Al Wukair and Al Wakra will listed in Qatar Exchange with an be opening by year-end, accord- aim to diversifying its investment ing to a top official of the real portfolio. estate giant. Asked why the company has “Al Wukair mall will be open- decided to exit the booming real ing on October 1, while the mall estate sector, he clarified: “We at Al Wakra may open on 3rd have reviewed and re-adjusted November or 3rd December,” said our strategies in the last General Ali Al Obaidly, Group CEO of Assembly of the company with Ezdan Holding, adding, “the delay regard to the real estate sector. is due to several factors such as We may or may not exit the real getting approval from authorities estate sector. So it will depend on concerned and we had to reor- case by case.” ganise and make some changes Apart from hotels and other in Al Wakra mall to have more real estate properties, currently space.” Ezdan Holding owns over 20,000 About the leasing out of space housing units across the coun- Ahmet Demirok, Turkish Ambassador; Salah Salhi, Tunisian Ambassador, and Nurmakhmad Kholov, Russian Ambassador; Ezdan Holding’s Group CEO, and occupancy, he said the com- try and a significant number of Ali Al Obaidly and other guests at a gala dinner hosted by Ezdan Mall to mark the second anniversary. pany has not yet started leasing them are located in Al Wakra out the spaces in these upcoming area. malls. However, he was upbeat If the company has plans to Ezdan Mall-Gharrafa marks second anniversary and said: “Within six months hike rents this year, he neither about 95 percent of the spaces are accepted nor ruled out the pos- expected to be occupied.” sibility, saying “it will depend on DOHA: Ezdan Mall, a subsidiary Jazeera Perfumes owner, and Dr some of its brands such as Charles in Coffee Shops category, MADO Al Obaidly told this newspa- the market conditions”. of Ezdan Holding Group, recently Shaikh Ayadh Al Qahtani from & Keith and US Polo while suc- from Turkey in the Restaurants per recently on the sidelines of Commenting on the com- celebrated the second anniver- RAF Charity. ceeding to get high number in its category, as for entertainment an event held to mark the sec- pany’s diversifying strategy of sary of its first mall located in Ezdan Shopping Mall’s General transaction value. The well time it goes to Funville that achieved ond anniversary of Ezdan Mall- investment portfolio, he said the Gharrafa area, which opened its Manager, Malik Qaiser, expressed spend in Ezdan Mall reaches not only best Ezdan Mall but also Gharrafa, which had opened on focus of investments will con- doors on April 15, 2013. his gratitude to the guests. 90 minutes which indicates the ranked number one store among 37 April 15, 2013. tinue to remain in the southern The event was attended by Qaiser said: “Our focus as a unique shopping experience we branches in the GCC. The group last year had parts of the country, especially scores of guests and dignitar- new and upcoming shopping des- are offering our guests that dif- For the ‘Best Performing announced to build over 11,000 in Al Wakra area, as it has got ies, including Ahmet Demirok, tination was to target families of ferentiate us from any other mall” Anchor Stores’ Pari Gallery and housing units at whooping cost a big hospital, two big malls and Turkish Ambassador; Salah locals and expatriates. We put added Qaiser. Sharaf DG won accolades. of QR4.5bn which is expected to a lot of other infrastructure Salhi, Tunisian Ambassador, and greater focus on the social atmos- Armada Group received the ‘Best Special awards were given to be completed in three years. developments are already in the Nurmakhmad Kholov, Russian phere, high-end services, as well Retail Group Award’ and RIVA the best community initiatives, Dr Commenting on the housing pipeline. Ambassador. Present were Ali as introduced brands that did store from Armada received the Shiakh Ayadh Al Qahtani received projects, he said: “We are going “The population of Al Wakra Al Obaidly, Group CEO of Ezdan not yet exist in Qatar with more ‘Best Retail Brand’ for overall per- on behalf of RAF charity for best to start two housing projects has witnessed phenomenal Holding, and Hasib Kayali General than 50 brands for the first time formance, while Charles & Keith Islamic initiative. Ibrahim Fakhroo very soon to develop between growth over the last few years, Manager at Ezdan Hotels. in Qatar. We pride ourselves in by Apparel Group received the received an award for his Raswalana 11,000 to 13,000 housing units. which is currently in the range Among the retailers who listening to all guest requests and ‘Best Retail Brand’ in the Footwear Mohammed exhibition for the Best One is spread across an area of of between 130,000 to 140,000. We attended the gala dinner were taking action accordingly. category, Choice from Armada Islamic Educational initiative and over 500,000 square metres (near are building two big Independent Pari Gallery General Manager, “Ezdan Mall’s retailers reported received the ‘Best Retail Brand last but not least Pakistan Welfare Al Wukair), while the other one, schools for boys and girls,” Al Salman Abdulrahim, owner of double digits growth from 2013 in Womenwear, Monsoon Kids in Forum received an award for Best which is relatively a smaller Obaidly said. Armada Group, Ahmed Islamil Al to 2014 and achieved high sales Childrenwear, US Polo in Unisex, Educational initiative. project is located in Doha.” THE PENINSULA Tahhan, Hashem Al Hashemi, Al density up to $1,000 (QR3,641) in Popeye’s in Fast-food, Tim Horton’s THE PENINSULA

Barwa Bank plans to expand branch, ATM networks QNB’s Life Rewards BY SACHIN KUMAR at Barwa Bank told The Peninsula. “Best Mobile Banking Brand in “The new branch, which will be the Middle East” for 2014 from announces DOHA: Barwa Bank is plan- located in City Centre, is likely to Global Brands Publication. ning to expand its presence see the light of day soon. “We are “We have also made significant in the country in an attempt planning to open this branch very progress on the ATM front with over partnership to reach out to more custom- soon,” Al Abdullah added. 59 ATMs spread across the country, ers. The newest Islamic bank The bank, which started its and are targeting to reach 65 by the with Harrods in Qatar is planning to open operations in 2009, has been at year’s end. These include a variety one branch and six new ATMs the forefront of competition when of CDMs (Cash Deposit Machines), (Automated Teller Machine) it comes to electronic banking drive through and walk-up ATMs,” DOHA: QNB yester- this year. With these new addi- channels and customer service. said Hussain Al Abdullah. day announced partnership tions, the bank will have a total “We are actively encouraging The bank recently upgraded its between its Life Rewards Total of six branches and 65 ATMs. our customers to migrate from ATM switch to provide additional Relationship Loyalty Program “These ATMs and branches conventional branch banking to services to our customers including and Harrods, UK’s luxury are open to better serve our cli- mobile and electronic banking,” utility bill payments, card-less cash any location, irrespective of banking drop in crude oil prices. I do not department store. The new ents and reach new customers. said Hussain Al Abdullah. deposits and credit card payments. hours, without the need to visit a think our growth will be impacted partnership is part of QNB’s Our customer base is increasing Last year, the bank saw the “We believe in moving beyond branch,” Hussain Al Abdullah added. by this downturn because Qatar’s ongoing commitment to reward rapidly every day because of a launch of new and upgraded branch banking to smart banking, Barwa Bank is expecting a economy is stronger and more its Life Rewards customers for sharp rise in Qatar’s population,” Internet and Mobile Banking hence our direction going forward healthy growth in 2015, unaffected diversified than before,” said their banking transactions. Hussain Al Abdullah (pictured), channels, which were also awarded is clearly to empower our custom- by the fall in oil prices. “Until now Hussain Al Abdullah. The new partnership will ena- General Manager, Personal “Best Internet Banking Brand in ers to do their everyday banking we have not faced any negative THE PENINSULA ble QNB clients to redeem their Banking and Wealth Management the Middle East” for 2014, and from the comfort of their home or impact on our business due to the Life Rewards points online in return for Harrods Cash Rewards which can be spent in-store and enjoy the ultimate shopping experience. The points redemption proc- Regency Holidays ess is simple and straightforward, with the Life Rewards points being directly converted to GBP for Harrods Cash Rewards to launches desert camp spend in-store. QNB clients, through QNB DOHA: Under the motto ‘Escape, and a variety of food stations, Internet services, need to Explore and Enjoy’, Regency the camp was filled with people enter their Harrods Rewards Holidays desert camp sets a new enjoying the succulent dishes at card membership number and trend to ‘Glamping’, camping in the restaurant, gazebos and din- the number of points they glamour. Regency Holidays held ing Arabic tents. As the day went would like to convert into GBP a cocktail reception for corporate by everyone was amazed by the on their Harrods Rewards partners and media representa- tranquillity the camp provides as card. tives recently for the launching of well as the luxurious ambiance. QNB currently operates “Regency Holidays Desert Camp” TarekAbdullatif, CEO of in more than 27 countries in Sealine, south of Qatar amidst Regency Travels and Tours said: across three continents. It has the dunes of the Arabian desert “One of the main attractions in approximately 14,500 employ- and the blue waters of the Gulf Qatar is our serene desert; we ees in 615 office locations. QNB sea. wanted to give people something Life Rewards is the first Total Guests were greeted at the new and different, a one of a kind Relationship loyalty programme meeting point in Sealine with experience. Creating this blend in Qatar, rewarding our cus- cold refreshments; they then were of five-star luxury facilities and tomers’ life every step of the escorted by Regency Holidays car camping will most definitely be a way. troops to the campsite. On arrival new trend for Camping in Doha.” Through this exceptional guests were amazed by the stun- At one hour from Doha, Regency rewards program, QNB demon- ning set up of the camp by the sea, Holiday Camp is located in Sealine strates that it has always been with 15 luxuriously designed gaze- Desert. The camp is a blend of tra- committed to exceeding our cli- bos set on shore, live jazz band ditional Arabian design coupled ents’ expectations, and to offer- playing Arabian chill out tunes, with modern comfort and provides ing them tailor made services and Henna tent, Falcon show, tradi- full serviced tents equipped with products that conveniently cater tional Qatari live cooking station five star amenities. to their needs. Guests enjoying the facilities at the Regency Holidays desert camp. along with a delightful barbecue THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 03

Citizens and Qatar keen on residents urged to cooperate promoting right with census

DOHA: For the third consecutive week, Ministry of Development to privacy Planning and Statistics (MDPS) continues the implementation of the collecting data process for the Simplified Census of Population, Minister addresses CyberSpace 2015 Housing and Establishments for the year 2015, in collaboration DOHA: Qatar is an active with the Ministry of Municipality player in promoting the and Urban Planning. right to privacy in the dig- The census has been launched ital age, said H E Dr Hessa on the first of April 2015. Sultan Al Jaber (pictured), Capacities and potentials were Minister of Information and mobilised to make the census a Communications Technology success because of its vital impor- addressing the fourth Global tance to the state. Conference on CyberSpace 2015 Qatari and resident family (GCCS 2015) held on April 16-17 members, business owners, and in the Hague, the Netherlands. enterprises effectively cooperated “Qatar has taken steps into QRC officials checking relief material for displaced people in Syria. with census researchers during transitioning from a traditional their visits recently, as they pro- hydro-carbon based economy vided them with the information to a Digital Economy. We have QRC sends first aid convoy under required for the census. grown extremely fast and are The census is one of the most constantly developing with high significant statistical work con- adoption rates of ICT. However, that promote transparency and ducted by the MDPS because of digital inter-connectedness is open data access. With regards to Katara relief campaign for Syria its inclusive nature, as it covers only beneficial if we can ensure social and economic growth, Qatar all elements of society; individu- our citizens and businesses are has created environment that DOHA: Qatar Red Crescent cooperation with the Jordanian As more in-kind donations are als, buildings, and establishment. safe in the digital world that we fosters ICT innovation, through (QRC) has sent the first con- partner. collected, QRC will send more It offers recent data and indica- are transitioning to,” said Dr Al the development of proper legal voy of humanitarian aid trucks The donation campaign was convoys to help the displaced tors of interest to decision mak- Jaber. “In data privacy Qatar is framework and skills, she added. under Katara’s relief campaign extended for an indefinite period Syrians inside their country as ers, researchers, and all members an active player in promoting the HE stressed that members of for the internally displaced peo- of time, with trucks aligned in well as the Syrian refugees in of the society. MDPS asked all right to privacy in the digital age. international community must ple (IDPs) inside Syria, in coop- different parts of the country, neighboring countries. citizens and residents to continue We support the United Nation’s cooperate in bridging the dig- eration with the partners in including Al Wakra, Al Khor, Al- Ever since the beginning of the their cooperation with census- efforts in this regard,” she added. ital gap they have between one Jordan. Rayyan, Muaither, Al Kheesa, Syrian conflict, QRC has imple- takers and to facilitate the per- Representatives from govern- another. The Minister also added Three trucks loaded with Izghawa, Al Kharaitiyat, Al mented dozens of relief and med- formance of their duties in order ments, private sector and civil that countries must work on their in-kind assistance (blankets, Shamal, Slata, Al Muntazah, Al ical projects in favor of Syrian to accomplish this important society gathered in the confer- judicial specialties in the field of mattresses, hygiene materi- Dafna, Aspire Zone, Al Murrah, brothers in Jordan, Lebanon, national action, as researchers will ence to promote practical coop- Cyberspace to suit the initiatives als, clothes, and children’s toys) Khalifa City, Al Luqta, Ghaza, Turkey, Iraqi Kurdistan, and continue to visit families from 4 to eration in cyberspace, enhance made by the United Nations. Her moved from the warehouses of Fereej Bin Omran, and Fereej even inside Syria, utilising its 8pm every day until the end of the cyber capacity building and Excellency noted that one of the the Jordan Hashemite Charity Kulaib. legal capacity as a globally rec- collection of census data in May 31. knowledge exchange, and discuss most important issues for govern- Organization (JHCO) in Mafraq, QRC undertakes the executive ognized humanitarian organiza- MDPS calls on citizens and resi- norms for responsible behavior in ments is to protect the national near the Jordan-Syria borders, part of the campaign, securing tion whose vehicles, facilities, and dents who are interested in com- cyberspace. information infrastructure. heading for southern Syria. licenses and approvals, finalizing staff are protected under inter- pleting the data of their families The Minister urged all coun- Concluding her remarks, the The relief campaign launched legal procedures, receiving the national laws and conventions, electronically to quickly register in tries to consider that privacy is minister highlighted that gov- by the Cultural Village Foundation donations, moving them to the a role that distinguishes it from the page of the census. The Ministry not just a technological challenge; ernments must work together “Katara” to combat cold and hun- target regions, and distributing other Qatari charitable organi- also urges families that already reg- it is a people centric issue. on developing a shared under- ger in Syria filled 11 containers them to the beneficiaries in poor zations, as well as its long expe- istered and have not completed the Governments need to strike a bal- standing of cyberspace threats. with 1,090 mattresses, 3,370 blan- districts and places of the needi- rience in humanitarian action data of their members yet to quickly ance between the citizen’s natu- The minsiter added that Qatar kets, and 97 packages of clothes, est IDPs. and good coordination with the complete data in the electronic form ral aspirations to protect their supports the report released women’s stuff, children’s toys, and In addition, QRC contributed humanitarian players in target available on the website: www.qsa. information while also enabling by the United Nations in Seoul soaps. This assistance was moved 2,000 blankets and 11,500 hand regions for concerted and inte- gov.qa which will be available until business to grow. Governments Conference of Cyberspace 2013. to Jordan so that QRC’s mission wash bottles to protect Syrian grated efforts. the end of this week. should reinforce the mechanisms THE PENINSULA there would enter it into Syria, in families against cold and diseases. THE PENINSULA QNA SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 04 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME QTA to reserve 6,000 ship rooms Rooms on cruise ships to accommodate 2022 World Cup guests

DOHA: Qatar Tourism reflects QTA’s vision to diversify as a key maritime destination, guaranteed sunshine, majestic Authority (QTA), along with tourism services and products and capitalize on the already desert landscapes and futuristic its partners in the Cruise by highlighting and supporting substantial cruise traffic in the cityscapes meet. With outstand- Arabia Alliance, has repre- the cruise industry. QTA’s aim is Gulf, which Qatar is currently ing air connectivity, two thirds sented the Arabian Gulf, at to drive cruise traffic to Qatar, unable to support. Since Qatar of the world’s population within Cruise Shipping Miami held particularly since there are has ambitious plans to establish eight hours flight time, state- in Miami, USA. The largest already large numbers of inter- a number of ports across the of-the-art infrastructure and cruise convention in the world national visitors joining cruises country; namely the new $7bn world-leading hotels and retail, has been attended by most in the Gulf, with other desti- port project, we are well placed the Arabian Gulf is a must- of the leading world cruise nations receiving over 200,000 to take advantage of this tourism experience cruise and tourism operators, industry and ship- cruise visitors per year. sector. The project is intended destination. ping experts, as well as major This industry can contribute to to better position Qatar to ben- This year’s convention high- cruise destinations. the local economy in the long term, efit from the expected regional lighted the fact that cruise fleets Over the past few years, QTA and as it develops it would ben- growth in cruise traffic, when will expand on the global level by established a number of strong efit other partners; namely Qatar the container and vehicle car- 2018, adding 10-12% capacity to relationships with international Airways as passengers will make rier traffic, as well as general the 360 ships currently provid- cruise operators as well as with use of the national carrier’ services cargo traffic moves to the new ing 470,000 berths. In addition, other specialists involved in the when entering or exiting Qatar to port over 2015 and 2016.” regional growth is set to con- www.swiss-belhotel.com industry. This has proved to be join potential cruises. Local excur- Cruise Shipping Miami, also tinue with new ships announcing of great importance especially sion and tour operators would also known as Seatrade Cruise Gulf destinations, and increasing Tel that Qatar will be extensively benefit greatly as “Shore excur- Global, is regarded as the epi- dedicated Gulf Cruise departures Fax benefiting from cruise ships sions” are extremely popular centre of the global cruise from 73 in 2014 to over +90 esti- over the 2022 World Cup, as a amongst cruise passengers. industry and the only event mated by 2018/19. Among the means of providing additional Hassan Al Ibrahim, Chief bringing together every facet discussed ideas were also the accommodation supply for fans Tourism Development Officer of the business. The live event fact that the cruise industry has Tel and visitors over the period. at QTA commented: “Our par- offers a 360 degree network- grown regionally at a rate of 30 Fax QTA will be contracting a mini- ticipation with Cruise Arabia in ing opportunity, with nearly percent per annum over the past mum of 6,000 rooms on cruise Cruise Shipping Miami has been 900 exhibitors and over 11,000 decade. Moreover, the industry is ships for 2022 Fifa World Cup extremely fruitful, substantially attendees from 125 countries, growing rapidly across the world, tournament, and is building its contributing to our efforts to comprehensive conference con- with Asia seeing 32% growth as knowledge base to develop this promote Qatar as a world-class tent featuring the industry’s a source market in 2014, while Tel sector of the maritime industry. tourism hub. Through Cruise most knowledgeable speakers, ‘traditional’ source markets Fax QTA recently announced Arabia we aim to position Qatar and the State of the Industry show extraordinary, sustained its participation in the Cruise and the Arabian Gulf as a pre- plenary session led by the heads growth of between 15 percent Arabia alliance, a group of mier cruise destination, thus of the four largest cruise corpo- and 180 percent in the past 5 regional destinations which col- reinforcing Qatar’s position on rations. In 2014, 133 new/first years, dependent on region. lectively promote and cooperate the world tourism map as a pre- time exhibitors took part in the Cruise Arabia Alliance, com- + 974 44298888 Tel to attract cruise operators to the mium destination for authentic convention. Over 40% of exhibi- prise QTA, Oman Tourism, Fax Gulf region, and to develop the experiences, business facilitation, tors closed business during the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture cruise industry. Furthermore, and family-focused recreation.” show, and approximately 900 Authority, Dubai’s Department the Cruise Arabia Alliance aims He added: “We received good exhibitors from 127 countries of Tourism and Commerce Tel to promote the Arabian Gulf results and positive feedback participated in the event. Marketing, and Sharjah as a cruise tourism hot spot on our first participation in The Arabian Gulf is among Commerce and Tourism Fax regionally and internationality. this global prestigious conven- the world’s top-three cruise Development Authority. Taking part in the event tion. We want to promote Qatar winter sun destinations, where QNA

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Workers taking rest from their labour on a roadside green patch in the West Bay area. (KAMMUTTY VP) Tel Fax Ooredoo Mobile Ashghal starts work on Umm Garn Road Money offers cash Tel Fax transfer for QR1 DOHA: Ooredoo yesterday announced the popular QR1 Tel MoneyGram fee promotion with Ooredoo Mobile Money is back, Fax enabling customers to send money home instantly with a money transfer fee of just QR1, until July 15. The promotion, which was first launched in 2013, is available for customers transferring money to a wide selection of 191 countries, including the GCC, and all Asian Tel countries including India, Nepal, Fax Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and most African countries. All new and existing mobile money customers will be able to Tel DOHA: The Public Works into five phases. Phase one roundabout that will link to an send money home instantly with Fax Authority, Ashghal, yester- includes construction of an existing road in Al Shahaniya, a flat fee of QR1 only during the day announced start of work 8.5km dual three-lane car- past Rawdat Rashed area. This promotional period, users will also www.marriottmarquisdoha.com on phase one of the road from riageway stretching from Salwa phase is expected to be com- enjoy one of the best exchange Rawdat Rashed to Umm Road to a site near the exist- pleted in Q2, 2016. rates in Qatar. Tel + 974 44195000 Garn which falls under its ing entrance of Rawdat Rashed Ashghal is distributing fly- The offer is part of Ooredoo’s Local Roads and Drainage area. This phase is expected to ers in both English and Arabic vision of giving back to Qatar’s Fax + 974 44195100 programme. be completed in Q2, 2016. to residents with information diverse community of international The 33km road which is The second phase will on the project’s description residents. Ooredoo Mobile Money perpendicular to Salwa Road include the construction of a and benefits as well as safety lets customers send money quickly, faces a north direction; it also 10.4km dual three-lane car- guidelines and how to get in easily and safely for collection at stretches past Rawdat Rashed riageway. The road starts from touch with community officers more than 347,000 MoneyGram area to Dukhan Road. where phase one ended and responsible for this project. agents in countries around the world. The project has been divided stretches all the way to a new THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA

SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 06 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME Community role vital in crime prevention Community Police official speaks at UN meet

DOHA: The Community Police their inadequacy in combating in Qatar is taking more efforts crime.” to spread awareness among the He also mentioned that the people to prevent crime, said a Community Police in Qatar is senior official yesterday. working keenly on spreading During the high level segment positive awareness about risks meeting on the seventh day of of crime among the commu- Officials during a panel discussion during the UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice. the 13th UN Congress on Crime nity members including citi- Prevention and Criminal Justice, zens and expatriates through United Nations Secretariat. communication with the pub- underscored that it is also communication technology, the delegates discussed the subject organising annual visits and Addressing the event he lic, and the way of advance- required to perceive the which may be used for promot- ‘National Approaches to Public awareness programmes for stated that all the states have ment of policy-making through negative effects resulting ing crime and violence as well. Participation in Strengthening communities and social and recognized that public participa- e-governance systems. He from the information and THE PENINSULA Crime Prevention and Criminal sports centres. tion, and access to information, Justice’. These programmes aim at judicial and administrative pro- Speaking in the session, Dr introducing the rules and regu- cedures are important to pro- Delegates speak Ahmad Hassan Al Hamadi, Head lations of the country and rais- mote sustainable development, Premier to address 10 languages of Legal Affairs Department, ing the awareness of the public adding that the Secretary- Continued from page 1 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said in crime prevention and bad General has also pointed out in that the concept of security has behaviours and spreading secu- his statement that justice and The 2014 Global Information and evolved in the past few years at rity culture. The Community advancement of safe and peace- concluding session Technology Report ranks Qatar 23rd an accelerated pace, where it has Policing Department has bagged ful communities and institutions in the world and first among the Arab changed from the traditional con- the respect and appreciation of are the essential elements for DOHA: The 13th UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Networked Readiness with its strong- cept to a community-based con- embassies and community heads achieving sustainable develop- Criminal Justice will conclude today with the President of est area of performance being govern- cept that focuses on the base of and this has contributed to raise ment goals. the Congress, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa ment usage of ICT, ranking fourth in community participation. confidence and creating a kind of He pointed out that the Doha Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Interior Minister of Qatar, the world. The international conventions understanding. Declaration has proved the sup- and the Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and The Media Committee hoped that and earlier conferences in the In addition to this, there are port of Member States to develop Crime, Yury Fedotov, making closing statements, at the Qatar “Tweet for Justice” would become the field of crime prevention have other government organisa- and implement consultative and National Convention Centre (QNCC). starting point of a sustained global dis- stressed on the importance of civil tions such as Qatari Association participatory processes in the The UN Crime Congress held in Doha since April 12, is the cussion that will involve everyone who society, especially the involvement for Protection and Social promotion of crime prevention thirteenth edition of the congress which is held once in every desires peace in the world to help in the of the community has become an Rehabilitation and Qatar and criminal justice, including five years. The Congress is held this year commemorating the adoption of comprehensive and inclusive essential component in prevent- Association for the Protection of the role of all sectors of society 60th year of its inception. national crime prevention and criminal ing all kinds of crimes. Children and Women, (Aman), for more effective preventive The unique facts about the Doha edition of the Congress are justice policies and programmes. He said: “Despite the fact that Social Rehabilitation Centre efforts. the attendance of the UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon The delegates participated in discus- the justice system in the State (Aween) and Qatar Association for He added that the sixth item in the Crime Congress for the first time, holding a three sions on topics such as transnational of Qatar allows each defend- Combating Human Trafficking, of the agenda gives us an excel- days youth forum targeting the youth, prior to the Crime trafficking in persons, weapons, drugs, ant in a criminal offense to be all of which are working on pro- lent opportunity to conduct Congress that discussed same subjects of the Congress in the violence against women and children, represented by lawyer before tection of targeted groups and a deeper study on the ways same venue, completing the draft of the ‘Doha Declaration’ in cultural property, crowding of prisons, the courts and if he is unable family violence or those who are in which countries achieved advance of the congress, associated exhibition with the partici- cyber and new emerging crimes, treaties, to appoint a lawyer, the state victims of that and treating the advancement in participatory pation of more than 60 national and international agencies in conventions and the Doha Declaration. bears the lawyer’s expenses, but issues related with violence and processes and to determine the area of 10000 square feet and launching of the ‘Knowledge The total of ancillary meetings the Criminal Justice, the police, abuse, Al Hamadi. future action points. Center’ as part of the associated expo of Crime Congress as reached 198 and expert translators the judiciary and prison are no The high level event on He said that the worksheets an international reference on crime prevention and criminal delivered 140 instant interpretations at longer able alone to achieve the Agenda item six at the 13th deal with the expanded the justice with booths representing 17 institutions under the the Congress in which delegates spoke modern security concept as Crime Congress was chaired role of technology and social United Nations. 10 languages. they have themselves proven by Johannes Duhan, from the networking on enhancing THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA Experts discuss innovative tools to fight modern crimes Karen Armstrong to speak at DOHA: As criminals were rac- sharing and mutual assistance, operations and were using state- existing or new tools would best could be transferred across the ing to technologically advanced while others debated whether or of-the-art technology to run guide that task. New crimes world within seconds. On exist- law enforcement, the interna- not a new cybercrime convention illicit organisations fuelled by required new conventions, Egypt’s ing treaties, some speakers said GU-Q today tional community must form should be considered. Throughout trafficking ever more sophisti- delegate said, adding that a new that, even though the Council of legal barriers, including new the day-long debate, delegates cated products, including human instrument should also guide Europe’s Convention on Cyber- DOHA: Georgetown global treaties, to end impunity, agreed that the world had to organs and fraudulent medicine. states in addressing trafficking crime, known as the Budapest University in Qatar (GU-Q) prosecute perpetrators and stop catch up with the criminals in Other speakers agreed that new in cultural property. In addi- Convention, was open to non- in collaboration with Doha cybercrime and illicit financing order to stop their illicit activities. efforts were needed to stamp out tion, a new cyber-crime conven- member States, it fell short in International Centre for in their tracks, experts said yes- “We have to be smarter than the havoc wreaked by computer tion should effectively respond to certain areas. The representa- Interfaith Dialogue (DICID) terday in UN Congress plenary them to fight their networks,” viruses and the widespread use of such offenses and provide clear tive of the Russian Federation and WOOLF Institute, is debate on new and emerging Morocco’s representative said, the Internet for criminal offenses, guidance on extradition and said that the instrument provided hosting a lecture by promi- forms of transnational crime. describing an evolving cyber- such as child pornography, iden- repatriation. Agreeing, South for the respect of human rights; nent scholar and writer Botnets, online spies and ter- space landscape where criminals tity theft and recruitment by ter- Africa’s representative, speaking however, it did not recognize the Professor Karen Armstrong rorists recruiting foreign fight- were delving into a range of illicit rorist groups. for the African Group, said there sovereign rights of all States today. ers were among a league of new activities, from illegal mining to While agreeing that a coop- was an urgent need for a legally to lead investigations. India’s The lecture titled threats that required equally trafficking in endangered flora erative approach was required to binding cyber-crime instrument, speaker asked: “Can we truly fight “Compassion and Violence” unique and innovative responses, and fauna. The rag-tag thugs fight cyber-crime and transna- with Iraq’s speaker saying that against this crime with a decade- will take place from 6.30pm speakers said. Some suggested and old-fashioned gangsters of tional crime, a number of speak- such a tool would help to contain old instrument?” to 8pm at Georgetown audi- opening channels for information the past had modernised their ers were divided on whether crimes whereby “dirty” money THE PENINSULA torium and will be open to public. Professor Armstrong is a British author and commen- tator known for her books Draw for plots at on religion and interfaith Firms violating summer rules face a month’s closure relations. Most recently she Jari Al Samar to be has published Fields of Blood: Religion and the History of held tomorrow Violence (2014), which deals with tackling religious vio- DOHA: The Ministry of lence and extremism. Economy and Commerce will The lecture will exam- hold a public draw tromorrow ine the complex relation- for the allotment of 21 land plots ship between faith and to build warehouses at logistic warfare and religion and area, “Jari Al Samar” in Umm politics. Besides examining Salal. the Crusades, the notion of The draw will be held at Sheikh jihad, and the so-called “Wars Fahad bin Jassem Al Thani Hall of Religion” in early modern at the Headquarters of the Europe, it will discuss such Ministry in the presence of all modern explosions of reli- companies participating in the giously-articulated violence bid for transparency of the draw, as suicide bombing and the said the Logistic Committee at atrocities of ISIS to discover the Ministry. just how central the role The project aims to provide Officials and guests during the workshop. of religion really is in such investment opportunities to local atrocities. companies at Jari Al Samr. About Continued from page 1 face a month’s closure, he added. representing SCH Occupational temperature indicators. The speaker will explore 21 land plots with different sizes Mohammed Al Ossairi, Head of Dr Sa’edAbdulfatah Al Noaimi, Health Section has been con- Lio Keen, Work environment the inherent violence of will be allotted. Safety and Occupational Health Senior Consultant at HMC, in a ducting field visits to work sites specialist at Qatar Gas, explained the state against which The area will have roads, Section at the Ministry of Labour presentation on heat exhaustion to raise awareness among work- the use of hygrometers and ways the compassionate alter- electricity and water connec- and Social Affairs, spoke about said the number of cases in 2014 ers about heat exhaustion and to adjust working hours and native preached by proph- tions among others. A project the laws and decisions on summer did not rise above 800 which is prevention methods, and distrib- breaks according to hygrometer ets, sages, mystics and to develop the area costs more working hours. According to these low compared to previous years uting publications at sites in vari- readings in order to avoid heat even emperors could never than QR133m and is being imple- laws the number of working hours taking into consideration the ous languages. The SCH Health exhaustion. wholly prevail. mented and expected to be com- related to jobs carried out in the sun increase in number of workers in Education Section will organise Representatives from the The lecture will also show pleted in 24 months. or in open places must not exceed the country during 2014. awareness campaigns in workers’ National Pharmaceutical that secularism and nation- The area is located at a stra- five from June 15 to August 31. Dr Mohammed Ali Al Hajjaj, native language, he added. Company, the sponsor of the alism have not been wholly tegic area which is close to Al The morning working hours Head of Occupational Health Hassan Al Sayyed Al Far, workshop, highlighted the health irenic alternatives to the Shamal road. The land will be should not go beyond 11.30am Section at SCH, said the work- Occupational Health consultant benefits of using oral rehydration religiously organized state available on 30 years lease con- and the evening shift should not shop was part of heat exhaustion at the SCH Occupational Health solutions (ORS) which are used but have inspired some of tract. The rent will be QR900 per start before 3pm. Employers must programme launched earlier this Section gave a presentation on during emergencies to prevent the worst atrocities of mod- square metre to be paid in four supply enough drinking water and month under the title “Beware of heat exhaustion and the impor- dehydration and heat cramps and ern times. instalments. provide rest areas for workers. Heat Exhaustion”. tance of knowing its types, means replace lost fluids in summer. THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA Companies that fail to comply will A team of inspectors of prevention and how to read THE PENINSULA SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 MIDDLE EAST www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 07 Iran rebuffs threat of US attack on N-sites Warnings an ‘old habit that dies hard’

TEHRAN: Iran’s foreign min- “The fact we are negotiating ister dismissed yesterday the indicates that everybody under- threat of a US military strike stands the only way to deal with against Tehran’s nuclear sites, Iran is to recognise Iran’s rights describing such warnings as an and have mutual respect. That “old habit that dies hard” given will provide a far better answer ongoing diplomacy. than getting engaged in disas- Mohammad Javad Zarif, who trous adventurism,” he added. leads the Iranian side in talks Dempsey’s comments came with six world powers that aim to after Russian President Vladimir end the dispute over the Islamic Putin lifted a ban on supplying republic’s nuclear programme, S-300 missile systems to Iran. said threats of conflict should be The US general said the move off the table. would not affect America’s abil- He was responding to General ity to conduct a military strike. Martin Dempsey, chairman of Russia’s decision was con- the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, who demned by Israel, the most on Thursday said “the military vehement opponent of the talks option... to ensure that Iran does between Iran and the five perma- not achieve a nuclear weapon is nent members of the UN Security intact”. Council plus Germany. The United States has long said Iran insists its nuclear pro- targeted bombing of Iran’s nuclear gramme is for peaceful energy sites and other key facilities may be development rather than military needed if Tehran — which denies purposes. seeking the bomb — does not rein Russia said progress in nuclear in its atomic activities. talks, which could see Iran agree But Zarif hit back at Dempsey, to curbs and rigid inspections for highlighting that his claim was at least a decade in exchange for old and discounting its validity sanctions relief, meant there was given the talks aim to end the no longer a need for it to prohibit nuclear impasse and culminate export of the S-300 surface-to-air in a final deal by the end of June. missiles. “The military option is non- Iran, which hailed Russia’s Military trucks carrying Iranian mid-range ‘Zelzal’ missiles drive during a military parade marking the annual ‘National Army Day’ in Tehran yesterday. existent and doesn’t work move as a step toward “lasting Iranian President Hassan Rowhani, who attented the ceremony, in a speech described the Saudi-led military campaign in Yemen as a ‘disgrace’. against Iran, and it’s better to security” in the region, currently stop making those statements,” lacks advanced air defences that would provide a major improve- Iran’s military is purely for said in a speech at an annual and maritime traffic,” he said. Zarif said at a joint news confer- could knock out modern fighter ment for Iran’s air defences, it defence and should not be seen Army Day ceremony in the capi- “The armed forces bring peace ence with his Australian coun- aircraft in the US or Israeli air remains unclear if the missile as a threat in the Middle East. tal where a new Iranian-made to the nation and other peoples terpart Julie Bishop. “We don’t forces. would be a match for America’s Rowhani said the Islamic Bavar-373 missile was paraded. of the region,” he added. Iran says pay attention to them because we The S-300 is designed to detect stealthy F-22 fighters and bomb- republic’s military policies are The presence of Iranian navy the domestically produced Bavar- know that there is none,” Zarif and destroy ballistic missiles, ers, experts say. wrongly perceived. “Our strategy ships “in the Gulf and the Gulf 373 system has similar capabili- said, again referring to the option cruise missiles and aircraft at Meanwhile, President Hassan has always been that of a deter- of Aden is intended to ensure the ties to the S-300. of a military attack on Iran. low altitude. Although the S-300 Rowhani said yesterday that rent... not a doctrine of war,” he security of neighbouring countries AGENCIES

Kurdish party In Saudi, Yemen war is ‘something good’ HQ attacked RIYADH: A newspaper hails annual index of press freedom, a Saudi Arabia’s “brave armed situation which has left Saudis in Ankara, men”. Students build a remote- one of the world’s most active controlled fighter plane as a users of social media where they tribute to warplanes bombing have more leeway to comment. no casualties Yemeni rebels. A phone com- But even there, voices critical pany offers patriotic songs as of the war have been rare. “Yes ANKARA: Unidentified assail- ringtones. to the #Decisive_Storm. Yemen ants opened fire early yesterday This is wartime in Saudi needs the help, needs the sup- on Turkey’s main Kurdish party Arabia, a tightly controlled king- port from its neighbours. Yemen headquarters in the capital dom where almost every audible is moving to the safe and right Ankara, raising tensions ahead voice is behind the three-week-old way,” is a typical post. of legislative elections in June, air campaign against Shia rebels “There’s no freedom of speech but with no casualties reported. in neighbouring Yemen. here in Saudi Arabia,” said a “The attackers fired with rifles “Our king has done something resident of the country’s Eastern at the party headquarters at 4:05 good,” said Saud Mubarak, an Province. “If you speak against am from a passing car,” an offi- unemployed man in his mid-20s. this operation it means your loy- cial from the pro-Kurdish People’s He echoed the government view alty is to Iran.” Democratic Party (HDP) said. of the Saudi-led military coalition Early in the campaign some Security guards protecting the action to stop the Houthi rebels’ people in the Shia-majority city building fired back and the assail- advance and to help the legiti- of Qatif wanted to protest against ants fled in the car, according to mate government of President the air strikes and “support the official. State-run TRT televi- Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi. “We’re all Yemeni people” but security offic- sion reported that two suspects happy about that,” said Mubarak, Yemeni men inspect the crater allegedly made by an air strike by Saudi-led coalition warplanes targeting Houthi ers ordered them by loudspeaker had been detained. a former security guard. to stay in their homes, said HDP lawmaker Sirri Sureyya rebel positions in Sana’a yesterday. Sheikh Ahmed Al Ghamdi, the resident, asking to remain Onder called the attack a “provo- former head of the religious anonymous. cation” in the run up to the June police in Makkah, said “over 90 operation “a blessed step”. given escorted visits to troops the King’s son, Defence Minister Some Sunnis are also against 7 legislative polls. “We will not percent” of people in the kingdom The coalition began its cam- reinforcing the border. But from Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the war but there is not a lot yield,” he tweeted. support the operation in Yemen, paign after Saudi Arabia feared the front there have been no com- visiting a wounded soldier in hos- of opposition, the resident said, The government also con- which has been dubbed “Decisive the Houthis, allied with army bat pictures that might shake the pital. He leaned over and clasped because even Saudis who would demned the attack, with Prime Storm”. units loyal to former president Ali nation’s morale. a hand of the serviceman, whose normally be critical of the govern- Minister Ahmet Davutoglu “I feel that what the kingdom Abdullah Saleh, would take over In Riyadh, large video screens face was not shown and whose ment have bought into a “sectar- assuring that “everything is of Saudi Arabia did was 100 per- all of Yemen and move it into the in shopping malls and on street wounds were not described. ian” narrative — that the fight is being done to capture those cent right... not only for Yemen but orbit of Shia Iran. Ghamdi said corners mix advertising images Another Saudi Press Agency between Sunni and Shias and not responsible”. “I condemn the all the countries of the Gulf, and Iran is untrustworthy “like a fox” with shots of marching troops photo showed the Governor of about Saudi’s regional influence — attack targeting the HDP,” Arabs and Islam,” said Ghamdi. On and is the “enemy for Muslims and the Custodian of the Two Asir region, Prince Faisal bin promoted in the local media since Davutoglu wrote on Twitter. “It Yemen, his views follow the official and the Arabs”. Holy Mosques King Salman bin Khaled, kissing the head of the the start of the campaign. is clear that like previous ones, line which accuses Iran of support- The coalition says it has killed Abdulaziz Al Saud saluting beside son of a “martyred” Border Guard “Actually I don’t care what this attack takes an aim at our ing the Houthis, despite Tehran’s hundreds of Houthis. Six Saudi a warplane. trooper, Corporal Suleiman Al happens to Iran. It’s not my democracy and stability,” he said. denial of supplying weapons. armed forces personnel have died Hints at the human cost of war Malki. country,” the eastern resident Deputy Prime Minister Yalcin Saudi Arabia’s top cleric, and others have been wounded have nonetheless made it into the Saudi Arabia ranks 164 out of added, expressing sympathy for Akdogan referred to “dirty hands” Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Aziz in skirmishes along the frontier country’s newspapers. The state 180 countries and territories in both Saudi troops as well as the trying to “create provocation and Al Sheikh, has called the Yemen with Yemen. Journalists have been news agency issued a photo of the Reporters Without Borders people of Yemen. AFP stir up tensions”. The incident fuelled the tense run-up to the elections in which the HDP is for the first time trying to clear the 10 percent threshold for entering parliament as a party under pro- portional representation. Heavy clashes in Tripoli Success for the HDP could have far-reaching consequences for the TRIPOLI: Heavy clashes broke out in the to the east. A senior official in Tripoli said country, by preventing the ruling Libyan capital yesterday, residents said, forces loyal to his government had started a Justice and Development Party’s with gunfire and explosions heard in areas campaign in Tajoura, Fashloum and a third (AKP) bid to win a big enough home to groups that oppose the Tripoli- area “to get rid of drug dealers and all crimi- majority to be able to change the based government. nals loyal to (Khalifa) Haftar.” constitution and create a presi- The North African country is engulfed in a Khalifa Haftar is an army general allied to dential system. To make those conflict between two governments, each allied the government in the east. He and the gov- changes, the AKP would need the to armed groups, who are fighting each other ernment have said several times they wanted support of two-thirds of parlia- for power and territory four years after the to retake Tripoli by force. ment’s 550 members. ousting of autocrat ruler Muammar Gaddafi. In a statement yesterday, the eastern The party currently has 312 Gunfire and explosions could be heard government said Libya Dawn had killed and seats in the body. President Recep since early morning in the central Fashloum arrested residents of Fashloum and Tajoura Tayyip Erdogan has appealed to district and the eastern Tajoura suburb, and cut electricity and water to both areas. his supporters to help elect 400 residents said. Shells hit several residen- Clashes involving groups backing either AKP lawmakers in June’s vote, tial buildings but there were no immediate side have occurred west of Tripoli in recent giving him the backing to rewrite reports of casualties. weeks but not inside the city. the constitution — and assume Groups in Fashloum and Tajoura oppose Both sides have attacked cities belonging full executive powers himself. a government established in Tripoli after an to the other side with war planes in recent HDP’s co-chair Selahattin allied faction called Libya Dawn seized the weeks, undermining talks brokered by the Libyans pray during the funeral of two fighters from Fajr Libya (Libya Dawn) militia alliance, Demirtas said his party hoped to city in August and forced the existing, inter- United Nations to form a national unity gov- in Tripoli yesterday. turn Erdogan’s political calcula- nationally recognised government to decamp ernment. REUTERS tions “upside down”. AFP SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 08 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

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S IF Taliban aren’t doing a proper job of killing people, the ISIS has entered Afghanistan. This Refugees need us to stop deadlier-than-Al Qaeda terrorist group has Aclaimed the responsibility for the suicide bombing that killed at least 33 people and injured more than 100 in the eastern city of Jalalabad. Ironically, among those making them refugees who condemned the attacks were the Taliban themselves, BY ANDERS LUSTGARTEN who called the attack ‘evil’. But the condemnation must powerful to inflict horrors on the pow- don’t give a shit. All we have is us. have been born out of a fear of this Middle Eastern terror erless without getting their hands dirty. But equally important is responsi- outfit upstaging the home-grown terror group more than N THE desert, the smugglers James Brokenshire, the minister who bility. In all the rage about migration, a genuine concern for innocent Afghan lives. Taliban lace their water with petrol so defended cutting Mare Nostrum on the one thing is never discussed: what we the smuggled won’t gulp it down nauseatingly hypocritical grounds that do to cause it. A report published this have rarely found a match for its atrocities, but ISIS now Iand cost more. Sometimes the it encouraged migration, never has to week by the International Consortium threatens to overtake it, in the same way as Al Qaeda has trucks they’re packed into stall cross- let the deaths his decision helped to of Investigative Journalists reveals been shocked by the mindless killings of ISIS. ing the Sahara; they have to jump out cause spoil his expensive lunch with that the World Bank displaced a stag- The blast in Jalalabad happened outside a bank where to push, and some are left behind when lobbyists. It doesn’t affect him. gering 3.4 million people in the last government workers were collecting salaries. It was Afghan the trucks drive off again. In transit But it does affect us. Right now we five years. camps in Libya before the perilous ven- are a diminished and reduced society, By funding privatisations, land grabs President Ashraf Ghani who blamed Islamic State militants, ture across the Blue Desert, they play bristling with suspicion and distrust and dams, by backing companies and without giving further details. If true, it would be the first football, fight, and pool their scanty of others even as we perversely strug- governments accused of rape, murder such major attack carried out by the group in Afghanistan, resources so an even poorer friend gle with loneliness and alienation. and torture, and by putting $50bn into marking a significant step in its expansion into south Asia. can pay his way. One man says his tiny We breathe the toxic smog of hatred projects graded highest risk for “irre- Local media said a former spokesman for the Pakistani wooden boat was flanked by dolphins as towards immigrants pumped out by versible and unprecedented” social Taliban had claimed responsibility on behalf of ISIS in both they made the journey, three on each Nigel Farage and Katie Hopkins, and impacts, the World Bank has massively side, like guardian angels, and this was it makes us lesser people. contributed to the flow of impoverished Pakistan and Afghanistan. what gave him hope. Forget the fact that this society people across the globe. The single big- The entry of ISIS into Afghanistan poses a new threat These are the people we are allow- wouldn’t work without migrants, that gest thing we could do to stop migration to both the Afghan government and the Taliban. While the ing to die in the nobody else will pick your vegetables is to abolish the development mafia: the Taliban have a political agenda Mediterranean. and make your latte and get up at 4am World Bank, International Monetary and objective, it’s not clear what The EU’s de facto to clean your office. Forget the massive Fund, European Investment Bank and the ISIS seeks to achieve in policy is to let tax contribution made by migrants to European Bank for Reconstruction and migrants drown the Treasury. This is not about eco- Development. Afghanistan, unless outsmarting to stop others nomics. Far too often, even the positive A very close second is to stop Ironically, the the Taliban in its wanton coming. Last year takes on migration are driven by num- bombing the Middle East. The west cruelties is an objective. The EU’s de nearly four thou- bers and finance, by “What can they destroyed the infrastructure of Libya Taliban have If the Taliban is genuine facto policy is sand bodies were do for us?”. This is about two things: without any clue as to what would about its condemnation, it must recovered from compassion and responsibility. replace it. What has is a vacuum state the Med. Those Lampedusa, my play currently run- run by warlords that is now the centre condemned the join the Afghan government in to let migrants are just the ones ning at the Soho Theatre, focuses on of Mediterranean people-smuggling. ISIS killings in rooting out ISIS from the Afghan drown to stop we found. The two people at the sharp end of austerity We’re right behind the Sisi regime soil. If such an alliance is unlikely total number of Europe. Stefano is a coastguard whose in Egypt that is eradicating the Arab Jalalabad. and unpractical, the Taliban can others coming. arrivals in Italy job is to fish dead migrants out of the spring, cracking down on Muslims and fight the new terrorists on its in 2014 went up sea. Denise is a collector for a payday privatising infrastructure at a rate of own, by keeping a watch on its How many more over 300% from loan company. They’re not liberals. knots, all of which pushes huge num- the year before, They don’t like the people they deal bers of people on to the boats. Our deserted members. The militants, deaths can we to more than with. They can’t afford to. As Stefano past work in Somalia, Syria and Iraq who were ousted from power by 170,000. And the says: “You try to keep them at arm’s means those nationalities are top of the a US-led invasion in 2001, rarely stomach? EU’s response, length. There’s too many of them. And migrant list. claim attacks that kill large groups of civilians, saying they driven by the it makes you think, about the random- Not all migration is caused by the target foreigners or the Afghan military and government. cruellest British ness of I get to walk these streets, and west, of course. But let’s have a real “It was an evil act. We strongly condemn it,” a Taliban government in he doesn’t. The ground becomes ocean conversation about the part that is. living memory, under your feet.” Let’s have a real conversation about spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, told a Western news was to cut the main rescue operation, But eventually, the human impact our ageing demographic and the mas- agency. Mare Nostrum. of what they do breaks through. And sive skills shortage here, what it means Ghani had warned during his visit to the US last month The inevitable result is that 500 in their consequent struggles, both for overstretched public services if we that Isis posed a “terrible threat” to his country. In that people have already died this year. Stefano and Denise are aided by a let migrants in (we’d need to raise case, he should have foreseen this attack and taken the The figure for the equivalent period in friendship, reluctant and questioning, money to meet increased demand, and 2014 was 15. There are half a million with someone they formerly thought the clearest and fairest way is a rise in necessary measures to prevent it. He also needs to tell the people in Libya waiting to make the of as a burden. This is compassion not taxes on the rich), the ethics of taking world what strategy he plans to adopt in the fight against crossing. How many more deaths can as a lofty feeling for someone beneath the cream of the crop from poor coun- the ISIS. The world has a stake because the ISIS entry we stomach? you, but as the raw reciprocal necessity tries. Migration is a complex subject. threatens to upend the hard work done by the US-led Nato Migration illustrates one of the of human beings who have nothing but But let’s not be cowards and pretend in Afghanistan. Taliban in itself is a formidable enemy. signal features of modern life, which each other. This is where we are in the the migrants will stop coming. Because Together with ISIS, they can suck the blood out of Afghan is malice by proxy. Like drones and utterly corrupted, co-opted politics of they won’t. This will never stop. derivatives, migration policy allows the the early 21st century. The powerful THE GUARDIAN government. The other side Quote of A tale of two countries the day HE IMF’s forecast that India’s China’s double-digit growth helped it thus in question. India’s infant mortality learn from China’s experience. China’s growth will overtake China’s this emerge as the world’s manufacturing rate of 43 per thousand live births is investment-to-consumption transition calendar year and the next is hub and enabled it to bring about major thrice that of China’s. And, China’s per (or from exports to domestic demand) Tcause for neither surprise nor reduction in poverty levels, besides capita income, at about $3,500, is more has been prompted by a prolonged euphoria. China is deliberately cooling ensuring a far higher level of literacy than three times India’s levels. India will slump in the advanced economies. off, after more than two decades of high and better health and living standards not be able to sustain its investment But the shift is proving slow and pain- growth. Meanwhile, India’s purported than India’s. India needs to grow at 7 thrust and reach China’s levels unless ful because of a manufacturing model shift away from consumption-driven to 8 per cent for at least a decade to its present savings rate, at about 30 that has relied on keeping wage costs Today, there’s no growth towards investment is expected create jobs for the 12 million people per cent of GDP, against China’s 51 unduly low. A domestic demand impulse to generate the conditions for sustained entering the market each year and per cent, improves. India must boost would entail a shift towards high-value, greater threat to high growth. But the ‘elephant’ has a generate resources to improve physical household savings by improving high-wage manufacture, as in Japan. our planet than long way to go before it can catch up and social infrastructure. A quarter of employment and financial inclusion, China’s investment in human capital with the ‘dragon’. China’s compounded India’s households have no electricity, and keep inflation in check. A policy and scientific research is what works climate change. annual growth rate was over 10 per whereas China has full coverage. environment that encourages ‘Make in here. The second cause for the govern- cent between 1990 and 2013, while India’s literacy level at 74 per cent is India’ can help. ment not pushing growth aggressively the best that India achieved was about way below China’s 95 per cent: India’s Yet, in trying to become a manufac- is a real estate bubble that needs to be Barack Obama 9 per cent, between 2003 and 2009. so-called ‘demographic dividend’ is turing hub, it is important for India to deflated slowly. THE HINDU US President SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 09 ‘There is a strategic conflict in the region’

Yemen, I believe the Saudis have because the Saudis have long been The United States and Iran have reached what acted very hastily, they don’t seem involved and now they are bomb- to have a long-term exit strategy, ing the country. some see as a historic deal on the latter’s nuclear or a morning after strategy. Well, you bomb, but then what? They Do you see a sectarian conflict programme. In order to gain a deeper insight have been extremely surprised to in the region? If yes, how is Iran find that Pakistan is not becoming contributing to this? into the agreement, Feyza Gumusluoglu met part of it. Because ultimately you I see a strategic conflict in the can only bomb the country from region, a power conflict, among dif- Professor Mehran Kamrava, an expert on the air, but you need boots on the ferent regional actors. And I think ground. The Saudis are now trying the chaos that has been pervasive Iran and Gulf politics teaching at Georgetown to figure out what their next move in the Middle East since 2011 has should be in terms of troops on provided a perfect opportunity for University School of Foreign Service in Qatar. the ground. And once the troops these regional actors to compete. are on the ground you begin to This strategic conflict sometimes Iran seems to be more compro- what is called a “breakout capac- see casualties, and once you begin assumes a sectarian flavour. But mising than before on its nuclear ity”. First, the Iranians were to see casualties, the real cost of the root of it is not sectarian. programme. What brought Iran accused of wanting a nuclear Saudi action in Yemen is felt. Four or five years ago, we were to this point? bomb, then the US revised its not talking about Shia-Sunni, we There are several factors that position and said that Iran doesn’t Why is Iran interfering in were talking about regional com- have converged. First of all, we want a nuclear bomb but wants other countries’ internal affairs? petition, governments competing have a new leadership in Iran. I the technology to build a nuclear Iran has an active presence with each other; we were talking think this afforded an opportunity bomb; to reach a stage where it in Iraq and Syria. But so does about Iran and its collaboration to the Iranian state to rethink its can build a nuclear bomb in two to Qatar, so does Saudi Arabia, so do with Hamas, and Hamas is not strategy toward its nuclear pro- three months. They won’t have it, many other counties. When you Shia. But then regional competi- gramme. The coming to office of but they will have the knowledge. have conditions in which central tion became reconfigured in dif- President Rowhani and the group Based on this framework, Iran’s authority is weak, as in Baghdad ferent ways. In the meanwhile, he was able to bring to his cabi- breakout capacity, its ability to and Damascus, you have other you had people who might be net, in particular Foreign Minister build a nuclear bomb, has suppos- Professor Mehran Kamrava, an expert on Iran and Gulf politics. actors that become involved; either called sectarian, or they are called (Mohammad Javad) Zarif… These edly been pushed back to one year. directly, or indirectly. Right now ‘identity entrepreneurs.” You had are the people who have a very Now there has been a qualitative If the deal falls through, if the community, the Gulf states are in Iraq and Syria we have a situa- sectarian individuals that in order different approach towards Iran’s change to the nature of the Iranian Americans do not lift the sanc- worried that it might lessen their tion in which multiple actors are to enhance their own legitimacy, engagement with the outside nuclear programme. It has a much tions, if something goes wrong leverage. Therefore it behoves the involved, like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, in order to empower themselves, world. They believe that Iran’s smaller scale compared to before. between now and June, then I Americans and Iranians to con- Turkey. They are all trying to fur- started playing the sectarian card. approach to the nuclear pro- Now it would take Iran longer to think Rowhani’s group will break vince these Gulf states that this ther their own interests and Iran It really started in Bahrain, where gramme was hurting the country’s put together a nuclear bomb, if it apart. They are going to say, “what is a win-win scenario, not a zero- is no exception. I think it would you had a national revolution that national interests. Ahmadinejad wants to have one. is in it for us? We agreed to give sum scenario. be misleading and disingenuous was framed by the state in sectar- and his cabinet had a very differ- up, and we are not getting any- to say that Iran is active in Syria. ian terms. When that happened, ent approach. They thought that Is everybody in Iran on the thing in return.” Right now, the What do you make of Saudi Yes Iran is active in Syria but so is sectarianism became a convenient if they made any compromises, same page about the nuclear different groups are on the same Arabia’s recent military inter- Saudi Arabia. One of the reasons political tool. Then in many ways it would undermine their legiti- deal? Are there dissenting voices? page. The question is will they vention in Yemen? that Iran is active in Syria is that the conflicts in the region became macy because they had built their There is a very robust discus- remain on the same page as the Saudi Arabia’s recent engage- others are active. voiced in sectarian terms. legitimacy on the whole notion sion in Iran about the deal. Within final deal is reached? ment in Yemen is the product It is also disingenuous to say of “resisting pressure” from the the state, there has been a very of several short- and long-term that Iran is involved in Yemen. Some surveys suggest that the US and European Union (EU). vibrant debate. One of the things The Gulf states, especially developments. If we go back about Saudi Arabia has been the domi- Gulf Arabs find Iran more threat- Whereas Rowhani and Zarif that Rowhani has been able to Saudi Arabia, have expressed a year and a half, we see that nant force in Yemen at least since ening than Israel. Is this surpris- have a slightly different approach, do is to put together a consen- serious concerns about the deal. because of its worries about the the 1990s, and of course before. ing to you? which is that this uncompromis- sus among different groups that Do they have good reasons to be Iran-US rapprochement, about Much of the reason why Yemen Fear is the result of a preva- ing stance in relation to the US have agreed on the parameters worried? developments in Syria, about the is in a mess today is non-stop lent narrative. At a time when and EU undermines Iranian inter- of a deal with America. These Initially, Saudi Arabia expressed emergence and growth of IS, it Saudi interference going back to you have Al Jazeera, Al Arabiya, ests. The other factor is that the groups include Supreme Leader serious concerns because it was has had a foreign policy that has the 1960s. If you go back to the Al Sharq Al Awsat, the media sanctions were beginning to have (Ayatollah Ali) Khamenei, the concerned that any Iran-US been often quick, even impulsive 1960s, Yemen’s earliest civil war, in general, and clerics who on a dramatic effect on the lives of Iranian parliament (majlis), the rapprochement would be at the and reactive, sometimes a little the other countries involved were Fridays deliver increasingly more average, middle-class Iranians. Islamic Revolutionary Guards expense of Saudi Arabia’s close too hasty in their actions. For Egypt, helping the so-called revo- sectarian and anti-Shia sermons, They had serious consequences. Corps (IRGC), known as the relations with the US. Then, a instance, breaking relations with lutionaries, and Saudi Arabia, then of course that begins to have This is another factor that com- armed forces, and, of course, they week after the initial framework Qatar, pulling back the ambassa- helping more conservative forces an impact on the general popu- pelled the Iranians to go to the also include technocrats; people in was signed, the Saudis came out dors, sending them back, refusing in Yemen. When you have this lation. I am not surprised about negotiation table. the civil service, the bureaucracy, and endorsed it, simply because their seat at the United Nations kind of regional competition, of this perception of Iran, given the and key decision-makers. It is the they didn’t want to be seen as (UN) Security Council, refusing course Iran also becomes involved. fact that the media and the clerics Do you see any change in the genius of Rowhani that he has put opposing something that was a to deliver the annual speech before The other thing is, to say that have become increasingly sectar- US policy towards Iran’s nuclear together this consensus, everybody done deal. Now the only country the UN General Assembly. These the Houthis are stooges of Iran ian and anti-Shia in their repre- programme? being on the same page. If you look that opposes the deal is Israel. are longer term indications of does not do justice to the depth sentation. For example, you never Clearly the Americans have at the Ahmadinejad administra- The Gulf states, since 1979, have policy indecision in the Saudi for- of resentment that the Houthis hear the Houthis referred to by decided to slow down the pace of tion, the parliament was always capitalised on tensions between eign policy establishment. In the feel for the way they are treated the name by which they call them- enrichment. They have decided fighting with him. But the parlia- the US and Iran. The more Iran meanwhile, you had a leadership by President Hadi. It also reduces selves, which is Ansar Allah. You not only to slow down the pace ment has not fought with Rowhani and the US had tensions, countries change in Saudi Arabia, in which the developments to very simplis- hear ‘the Houthis’, and it is always but also to lower the quantity, so on the nuclear issue. The IRGC like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait both the king and defence min- tic assumptions. For a long time, ‘Iranian-backed Houthis’. Within that the Iranians scale back and has not criticised the deal. In fact, and the United Arab Emirates ister are younger. I think Saudi former president Saleh was sup- this context of a prevailing narra- reduce the number of centrifuges. they have congratulated Rowhani were able to tell the West, “Look bombardment in Yemen needs ported by Saudi Arabia. Now Saleh tive, I don’t think it is surprising This was a critical issue for the on the deal. The deputy speaker of at us. We are the reasonable actors to be placed in the context of a is in cohorts with the Houthis. that public opinion polls reflect a US and the EU in ensuring that the majlis has endorsed the deal. in regional politics.” Now, if Iran broader Saudi foreign policy con- So saying that Iran is interfer- greater fear of Iran as compared Iran doesn’t reach the threshold of This is a very tenuous consensus. is accepted back into the global duct over the last two years. For ing is incomplete and misleading, to Israel. THE PENINSULA US presidential campaign will be all about Hillary

BY BILL SCHNEIDER began a campaign for president by not much of a fighter. He’s more promising to take us back to yes- of a thinker and an inspirational illary Clinton’s video terday,” Senator Marco Rubio said figure. Hillary Clinton, on the launching her campaign when he announced his campaign other hand, is tough and relent- Hfor the Democratic nomi- for the Republican nomination. less. “One thing you know about nation was a montage of the New If she wins, Clinton would me is that I am no shrinking vio- America. That’s the coalition become the first woman presi- let,” she said when she ran against Barack Obama brought to power dent of the United States. That Obama for the Democratic nomi- in 2008: African-Americans, doesn’t sound like the candidate nation in 2008. “If I tell you I will Latinos, Asian-Americans, work- of yesterday. It sounds like diver- fight for you, that is exactly what ing women, gays and lesbians, sin- sity and inclusion — the rallying I intend to do.” gle mothers, Jewish voters, young cry of the New America. Clinton ran far ahead of Obama people, educated professionals and If Republicans nominate former among white working class vot- the “unchurched” (the nearly one Florida Governor Jeb Bush, the ers in the 2008 Democratic pri- in five Americans who have no “candidate of the past” argument maries. “They think she’s tough,” religious affiliation). would go away. The past under an Obama strategist told Politico. It’s the coalition that elected President Bill Clinton looks a Clinton never gave up in 2008. Obama twice, with a majority of whole lot better to voters than She stayed in the race until the the vote each time. That’s some- the past under President George very end. Her determination thing even Bill Clinton couldn’t W Bush. The Monica Lewinsky earned her more admiration than achieve. Many in these groups episode was not the equivalent of resentment. US presidential candidate and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton talks with local residents as she campaigns didn’t bother to vote when Obama war in Iraq. Asked last year which The other way to get things was not on the ballot in the 2010 president of the past 25 years done is to build consensus. That’s for the 2016 Democratic presidential nomination in Marshalltown, Iowa. and 2014 midterms. Will they they admire most, 42 percent of hard to do when the country is show up for Hillary? They will if Americans named Clinton. Just so bitterly divided. With the rise progressive to get into to the Nonetheless, it’s the kinder, and diplomats. She’s going to spend Republicans keep insisting that 17 percent said Bush. of the New America, the Old race and challenge her. They want gentler Hillary who seems to be the next nine months listening to a victory for Clinton would be “a According to Hillary Clinton’s America has become a resistance someone who won’t make deals running for president this time. farmers in Iowa and teachers in third term for Obama.” pollster, what voters want in movement. It won’t go down with- with the enemy. She is not planning a “shock New Hampshire. The New America is now the 2016 is a president who can “get out a fight. Obama tries to make Can Hillary Clinton be a con- and awe” campaign like 2008. Can Clinton be a fighter and Democratic Party. To win, Clinton things done.” That’s their biggest deals with Republicans, but they sensus-builder? It sounds far- Her announcement video was so a consensus-builder at the same has to do more than Obama ever complaint about Obama. He can’t want nothing to do with him. fetched. She has a reputation as soft-focus it looked like an ad for time? She hopes so. She talks managed. She must do two things get immigration reform, he can’t Bill Clinton actually did make a highly polarising figure, which air freshener. In Silicon Valley about devising a plan and “bring- at the same time: hold the New get climate change legislation, a lot of deals with Republicans — she was before she became sec- in February, Clinton urged fel- ing people to that plan, focusing on America coalition together (as he can’t roll back Islamic State, on welfare reform, on free trade, retary of state. Now she’s back low Americans to “get out of our common-sense solutions and being Obama did — twice) and build a he can’t stop Russian President on a balanced budget, on financial in politics, and Hillary-haters mindsets, our partisan bunkers” relentless in driving toward them.” broader governing coalition (as Vladimir Putin’s aggression in deregulation. That’s one reason so are springing into action. The and find “a nice warm purple A tough, relentless Obama did not really do). It won’t Ukraine, he can’t get along with many voters admire him. Associated Press reports that at space where we’re trying to solve consensus-builder! be easy. Israel. And there’s no “Obama But not the left. They believe least 10 political organisations problems.” With her entry into the 2016 No sooner had Clinton declared boom.” Clinton sold them out on those list “defeating Hillary Clinton” Her campaign is positioning her race, there is one thing you can than Republicans started calling There are two ways to get deals, and they’re afraid Hillary as their primary mission in their as more “relatable.” She’s a world- safely predict: This campaign will her a candidate of the past. “Just things done. One is to beat your Clinton will do the same thing. filings with the Federal Election class celebrity who has spent years be all about Hillary. yesterday, a leader from yesterday opponents’ brains out. Obama is That’s why they want a strong Commission. dealing with kings and presidents REUTERS SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 10 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MIDDLE EAST Gaza sailors UN to act on make boat Syria chlorine with bottles GAZA CITY: With little to do and nowhere to go, five Palestinians stuck in the Israeli- blockaded Gaza Strip came up with a plan: Make a boat out gas attackers of recycled plastic bottles. “We wanted to break the depression that comes from being stuck Security Council members ‘in tears’ in Gaza,” said Bahaa Obeid, a 25-year-electrician who built UNITED NATIONS: The UN “this crime was left unpunished” the boat with his lawyer cousin Security Council has vowed and appealed for justice. Mohamed Obeid, also 25. to take action against those Saher Sahloul, another Syrian For three months, the five responsible for deadly chemi- doctor, urged the council to set up friends shaped and welded scrap cal weapons attacks in Syria no-fly zones in Syria to protect metal to form a rigid frame before after hearing graphic first- civilians from the aerial chemical fitting it out with nearly 1,000 hand accounts from doctors attacks. The doctors said several green plastic bottles. “It took working there. council members expressed their some time to make because we The US ambassador, Samantha readiness to ensure the perpetra- only had six hours of electricity Power, who said many council tors were held accountable. a day,” said Bahaa. They spent members were reduced to tears Power said council members about $500 on their creation, a by the reports, told reporters became “very, very emotional” 13-foot vessel two metres wide after the closed-door meeting while watching a video of the doc- that now flies the Palestinian flag. that the Security Council would tors struggling to save children “It’s something new, maybe a bit seek to identify those behind the who were vomiting and choking. Palestinian Bahaa Obeid (left) and his cousin Mohamed Obeid paddle on their makeshift boat made of plastic bizarre,” he said of the green boat attacks and ensure they faced The global watchdog, bottles at the port of Gaza City yesterday. that has been attracting attention justice. Organisation for the Prohibition on the Gaza shore. AFP The 15 envoys heard a report of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), is by Syrian doctor Mohamed carrying out a fact-finding mission Tennari, who treated victims of in Syria on the use of toxic chemi- a chlorine bomb attack on the cals during the attacks last month village of Sarmin, near Idlib, on and its report will be key to guiding March 16, that killed six people, the council on next steps. including children. “Our message The US-based Human Rights Europe on alert for looted Syrian spoils to the international community Watch has said it investigated six is please stop death in Syria,” reported attacks in Idlib and vil- LONDON: As armed groups in and Iraq, and recent propaganda But Hermann Parzinger, an held back to avoid flooding the mar- Tennari told a news conference lages outside the city, collecting Syria and Iraq destroy priceless videos showing their destruction archaeologist and president of the ket, as occurred after the US-led at UN headquarters. evidence from rescue workers and archaeological sites, European of ancient sites such as Nimrud. Germany-based Prussian Cultural invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan. The US, along with Britain and civilians that provided a compel- authorities and dealers are on The UN Security Council in Heritage Foundation, said there The looted artefacts were likely France, has accused the regime ling case in three of them. high alert for smaller, looted February demanded UN states was an “enormous market” from to be “hauled up in warehouses of President Bashar Al Assad of The group urged the Security artefacts put on sale to help act to stop the trade in cultural private buyers. He warned that either in the country or near the using chlorine gas against civil- Council to push for a full inves- finance the jihadists’ war. property from those two coun- the cultural costs were huge and country, and only linked to the ians, but Russia maintains there tigation. “So far, the Syrian gov- Stolen-art expert Chris tries, amid warnings that they said: “The context which is so art trade in small pieces and at a is no firm evidence that Damascus ernment has paid no price for Marinello, director of Art represented a significant source important to reconstruct the his- later stage”, he said. is responsible. committing a war crime with Recovery International, said he of funding for the militant group. tory of these civilisations is com- Stephane Thefo, who leads an “We need an attribution mech- banned chemical weapons. secu- has been shown photographs of Experts say it is impossible to pletely destroyed.” Interpol unit dedicated to fighting anism so we know precisely who rity council members, including items being offered from Syria put a value on antiquities looted Italy has proposed that world the illegal trafficking of cultural carried out these attacks,” Power Russia, should promptly ensure a that were “clearly looted right from Syria, which has been home heritage body Unesco create a goods, agreed that many items may said. “All the evidence shows that credible investigation to uncover out of the ground”. to many civilisations through the military taskforce to protect cul- disappear for years — but insisted they come from helicopters — only responsibility for the use of toxic “You could still see dirt on some millennia, from the Canaanites to tural sites in war zones, but many that tackling the trade was the best the Assad regime has helicopters. chemicals,” said HRW’s UN direc- of these objects,” he said. They the Ottomans. experts believe little can be done way to combat looting. “But we need to move forward tor, Philippe Bolopion. included cylinder seals, Roman bot- London-based International to stop the current destruction. The French policeman would in a manner that also makes it A report by the OPCW in tles and vases, although Marinello Association of Dealers in Ancient Instead, they are forced to wait like to see tougher national laws very clear to all council mem- January concluded “with a high said it was unclear whether the Art (IADAA) estimates the until the conflict ends and watch on trafficking of cultural goods, bers that those people respon- degree of confidence” that chlo- items were still in Syria, were in entire legitimate antiquities mar- in horror as priceless historic sites something Germany is currently sible for those attacks are held rine gas had been used in attacks transit or had arrived in the key ket in 2013 was worth between are destroyed and the spoils gradu- considering. “We have to act by accountable.” on three villages in Syria last year. markets of Europe and the US. $160m-$215m. Marinello said ally emerge onto the market. seeking to narrow markets for the Qusai Zakarya, a Syrian sur- But it did not attribute responsi- Concerns about looting during reputable dealers are “being very Vernon Rapley, a former head illicit trade, hoping that by curb- vivor of an August 2013 chemi- bility for the attacks, which killed the Syrian war have increased fol- careful not to touch anything that of the art and antiquities squad ing the demand, the supply would cal weapons attack outside at least 13 people. lowing the advance of the Islamic could remotely be part of this at London’s Metropolitan Police, eventually decrease,” Thefo said. Damascus, told the envoys that THE GUARDIAN State group through parts of Syria recent wave of looting”. expects many Syrian items to be AFP

Protest against censorship Al Shabaab Iraqi forces retake most militants of Baiji refinery from IS kill Somali BAGHDAD: Iraqi forces with insurgents fighting the retook most of the country’s army’s elite Golden Division and largest refinery from Islamic paramilitaries in southern and lawmaker State yesterday, officials said, western parts of the refinery reversing gains by the militants complex. who seized parts of the sprawl- Raid Jubbouri, the governor MOGADISHU: Gunmen ing complex in northern Iraq of Salahuddin province, said from Somali Islamist group Al this week. Iraqi forces were in full control Shabaab killed a regional law- A spokesman for the US-led of the refinery “from a military maker yesterday after he had coalition fighting Islamic State perspective”, but some insur- taken his wife to hospital in the said troops had recaptured all of gents remained hidden inside the capital Mogadishu, the group Baiji refinery at 11:30 GMT, but complex. and officials said. officials in Salahuddin, the prov- Islamic State insurgents suffered Aden Haji Hussein, a legisla- ince where it is located, said there a major defeat this month when tor from the semi-autonomous was still fighting around some Iraqi troops and Shia paramili- Puntland region, was sprayed facilities. taries routed them from the city of with bullets when he returned to The insurgents attacked the Tikrit, but struck back at Baiji and his parked car outside the hospital, refinery a week ago by blasting in the western province of Anbar. witnesses said. The gunmen were through the security perimeter Thousands of families have fled Turkish protesters shout slogans against censorship during a demonstration in Istanbul yesterday. One banner in a minibus that blocked his way. around it and taking over several Anbar in recent days as Islamic says: ‘Let gather against censorship’. The Istanbul Film Festival was forced on April 13 to cancel more than On Tuesday, Al Shabaab mili- installations, including storage State militants encroached on 20 screenings, three key awards and the closing ceremony after the screening of a Kurdish documentary was tants stormed a government tanks, a technical institute and a Ramadi and local officials warned building housing two ministries distribution point. the city was about to fall. banned, prompting many Turkish artists to pull their own films in protest. in the heart of Mogadishu, killing The Baiji refinery produced Two members of the Anbar at least 10 people. around 175,000 barrels per day provincial council and police “Al Shabaab fighters killed the before it shut in June when Major Khalid Al Fahdawi who is lawmaker in Hodan district (of Islamic State fighters seized it stationed inside Ramadi said rein- Mogadishu) and disappeared with at the same time as the city of forcements were on the way and Israel to hand frozen taxes to PA their car,” Major Ibrahim Ali, a Mosul. Iraqi forces retook it from the city was no longer in imme- police officer, said and added that militants in November but subse- diate peril. “The danger is still police were now searching for the quently lost control again. there, but the situation is better RAMALLAH: Israel has Nickolay Mladenov, welcomed the its 180,000 employees, who have vehicle and the gunmen. A source in the military com- than yesterday,” provincial council agreed to transfer in full deal as an important step “in the been receiving only 60 percent of Abdullah Hashi, assistant inte- mand for Salahuddin province member Sabah Karhout said. hundreds of millions of dol- right direction”. their wages since December. The rior minister for Puntland region, said clashes continued yesterday, REUTERS lars in taxes collected for the The Palestinians had threat- deficit will also be paid “as soon as which lies north of Mogadishu, Palestinian Authority but frozen ened to turn to the International possible”, the prime minister said. confirmed the shooting. Sheikh in a row over the International Criminal Court over Israel’s deci- Under an economic agreement Abdiasis Abu Musab, Al Shabaab’s Criminal Court, the Palestinian sion in early January to retain signed in 1994, Israel transfers to spokesman for military affairs, said premier said. the taxes in retaliation for the the PA tens of millions of dollars it carried out the attack. “We shall Rami Hamdallah, in a state- Palestinians joining the ICC. The each month in customs duties continue killing the enemies,” he Edition of Sudan daily confiscated ment from his office late Friday, monthly funds account for two- levied on goods destined for said. He also said the group had KHARTOUM: Sudanese security agents seized the entire edition said Israel pledged at a meeting thirds of the Palestinians’ annual Palestinian markets that transit launched a raid on a police station of a newspaper yesterday over an article about an activist who was with Palestinian officials to hand budget, excluding foreign aid. through Israeli ports. in Bosasso, capital of Puntland, on detained in the run-up to the country’s general elections, its editor- over the taxes collected between Israel agreed at the start of Although transfer freezes have Friday night. Witnesses from the in-chief said. December and March, amounting April to release the funds after been imposed many times, they city confirmed the raid. The National Intelligence and Security Service took the entire run to almost half a billion dollars. deducting debts due for elec- have rarely lasted more than one Al Shabaab has focused its of independent daily Al Youm Al Tali from the printers late on Friday, Israeli officials yesterday con- tricity, water and medical serv- or two months, except in 2006 attacks on Mogadishu, but Muzamil Abu Al Gasim said. “All copies of the newspaper’s Saturday firmed an agreement was sealed ices, a proposal rejected by the when the Islamist movement Puntland has increasingly become edition were seized by the security and intelligence apparatus,” he said. on the taxes, while the media said Palestinians who insisted on full Hamas won a landslide victory a target as the group has been Abu Al Gasim said the NISS told him the edition was confiscated the transfer of 1.8 billion shekels payment. in Palestinian legislative polls and driven out of traditional strong- because of an article he published the previous day about Sandra would take place on Monday. Hamdallah said the PA, once Israel withheld the funds for six holds further south by a military Kaduda, an activist who was held for three days. The article had called The UN special coordinator the funds are received, will months. operation of African peacekeepers for “the disclosure of the group that kidnapped the activist Sandra,” for Middle East peace efforts, firstly pay the April salaries of AFP and Somali troops. REUTERS Abu Al Gasim said. AFP SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 EUROPE / AMERICAS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 11

Zebra chase Pope calls for Miliband vows to tackle global response to Italy boat exploitation of migrants people crisis

ROME: Pope Francis yesterday Employers who pay workers less to be prosecuted urged the international commu- nity to act over a deadly surge LONDON: British opposition minimum wage or broke other Pressed on whether the in the numbers of migrants leader Ed Miliband said yester- employment laws, Miliband said. Conservatives could make agree- attempting to reach Italy via day that he would set up a new “This exploitation of the ments on a vote-by-vote basis, perilous sea crossings from government unit to prosecute worst kind isn’t just bad for the Telegraph reported that Gove north Africa. employers who exploit migrant those people directly affected, it said: “No, no, no. There won’t be.... The pontiff’s appeal came at workers if his Labour Party drives down living standards and I don’t think there will be many the end of a week in which more wins power in the national elec- conditions for everybody else,” UKIP MPs — if any — after the than 450 people are feared to have tion on May 7. Miliband said. election.” drowned in the Mediterranean In a major speech on immi- Miliband also reiterated Labour In a related development, and more than 11,000 other gration — a widespread concern plans to hire an extra 1,000 border Cameron said yesterday that would-be immigrants to Europe among Britons that has bolstered staff and ban recruiters from hir- he would appoint a well-known have been rescued by Italy’s coast- the anti-EU United Kingdom ing exclusively abroad, and said pensions expert, Ros Altmann, guard, merchant ships or vessels Independence Party — Miliband that the last Labour government as a financial services minister involved in a much-criticised set out how Labour would try had erred by not imposing tem- if he returns to power after next European Union maritime border to ensure immigrants did not porary curbs on migration from month’s election. patrol operation. depress British wages. eastern Europe. Altmann, 59, frequently com- The latest consignment, a “We’ll make it a criminal Prime Minister David ments in British media on pen- group of more than 450 refugees offence to undercut pay or condi- Cameron’s Conservative Party sions and has worked as an including 50 children, two new- tions of local workers by exploit- and UKIP leader Nigel Farage adviser to Cameron’s government born babies and eight pregnant ing migrant workers,” he said in both said yesterday that none and that of Tony Blair. She is also women, disembarked at Messina a speech in northwest England. of these measures would reduce a former director-general of Saga on Sicily on Saturday morning More than 600,000 people immigration. Group, which provides insurance following a rescue by the Italian migrated to Britain in the 12 Most economists say increased and travel services to over-50s. navy ship the Driade. months to September, up from immigration has boosted British Pension reform has been a “I want to express my gratitude over half a million the year before, economic output since the finan- major policy for Cameron’s gov- for Italy’s undertaking in wel- while average wages in Britain cial crisis, and see little evidence ernment, which has removed coming the numerous migrants have failed to rise significantly that it has reduced wages in some of the restrictions on how seeking refuge at the risk of despite falling unemployment. most cases. older people can cash in their their lives,” Francis said. “It is The Conservatives and Labour Separately, in an interview personal pension savings. Critics evident that the proportions of are neck-and-neck in one of the with the Daily Telegraph, senior of the plan have warned that the phenomenon demand much closest elections in decades. Both Conservative minister Michael some pensioners may take deci- greater involvement. We must not parties want to regain former Gove said his party would not do a sions that leave their long-term tire in our attempts to solicit a supporters who have drifted to deal with UKIP on a vote-by-vote finances at risk. more extensive response at the UKIP, which once attracted about basis, even if it failed to secure Cameron said Altmann would European and international level.” a fifth of voters but has more an outright majority after May 7. be responsible for financial con- The Pope was speaking dur- recently seen its own appeal ebb. “I don’t want to say anything sumer protection and financial ing his first official meeting with Labour would set up a dedi- disobliging ... about people in education. “We want to create a A Belgian police vehicle chasing three zebras which had escaped from new Italian President Sergio cated unit in Britain’s interior UKIP, but I’ve got no appetite, real savings culture in our coun- a Zebra Ranch in Brussels. The animals have been caught. Police said Mattarella, who reiterated Rome’s ministry to prosecute employers interest or inclination towards try for everybody,” he said. no one was injured by the animals, though many surprised spectators long-standing call for more sup- who paid migrants less than the doing a deal with anyone,” he said. REUTERS port from its EU partners in deal- have discovered a whole new meaning to the term “zebra crossing”. ing with the humanitarian crisis. “These broken lives compro- mise the dignity of the interna- tional community and we are in danger of losing our humanity,” Putin ‘ready’ Mattarella said. Teacher’s assignment goes viral online An estimated 900 boat peo- ple have perished in the waters to work with between Libya and Italy already DENVER: A Colorado teacher college,” to one tear-jerker from a 46 percent are classed as English share their messages with class- this year and current trends Washington who posted notes from her girl who said she had no friends language learners. mates. One widely commented point to last year’s total of 170,000 third grade class online and to play with at recess. Schwartz said one message that upon note was from a girl who migrants landing in Italy being at MOSCOW: Russia has key started a social media whirl- When the teacher shared pho- garnered a lot of sympathy online, said she had no friends to play least matched. interests in common with the wind under the hashtag tographs of some of the notes on from a girl who said she missed with during break time. Aid organisations say the death United States and needs to work #IWishMyTeacherKnew said Twitter, similar messages and pic- her father after he was deported Schwartz said that message had toll is much higher than it might with it on a common agenda, on Friday that the assignment tures came pouring in from other to Mexico several years ago, was been “heartbreaking,” but that have been if the Italian navy’s Mare Russian President Vladimir had been a revelation for her. schools worldwide. particularly revealing. she was gladdened to see how the Nostrum operation had not been Putin said yesterday in a televi- Kyle Schwartz, 26, asked the Schwartz, a self-described “That student comes to school other pupils rallied to support the suspended at the end of last year. sion interview. eight- and nine-year-olds at her suburban girl who has taught each day with a smile on her face,” child who wrote it. Italy scaled back the search and In his comments to the state-run Denver inner city school to write at southwest Denver’s Doull the teacher said, adding that she “The next day at recess, all rescue operation after failing to Rossiya channel, Putin appeared down something they wished she Elementary for three years, said would not have known what the the girls huddled around her and persuade its European partners to soften his anti-American rhet- knew about them, partly as a writ- she has conducted the exercise girl was going through if not for played tag,” Schwartz said. “A lot to help meet its operating costs oric after being highly critical. ing exercise, and partly as a way for each year, in part because she the hand-written note. of what we’re teaching is how to be of ¤9m ($9.7m) per month amid Relations between Moscow and her to learn about her pupils. wanted to underline the issue of She said the pupils were told a good friend. My students’ emo- divisions over whether the mission Washington and other Western Responses included “I don’t poverty in US inner cities. they could write anonymously if tional needs are just as important was unintentionally encouraging powers have soured over the con- have pencils at home to do my About 90 percent of Doull’s they wished, but that most were as their academic needs.” migrants to attempt the crossing. flict in Russia’s neighbour Ukraine, homework,” and “I want to go to 532 students are Hispanic, and happy to add their names and to REUTERS AFP sinking to an all-time low. “We have disagreements on several issues on the international agenda. But at the same time French frigate replica sets sail to US there is something that unites us, that forces us to work together,” No greater threat to planet Putin said. “I mean general efforts directed at making the world econ- omy more democratic, measured than climate change: Obama and balanced, so that the world WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama said yesterday order is more democratic. We have that climate change poses the world’s biggest single threat. “Today, a common agenda.” there’s no greater threat to our planet than climate change,” Obama Putin has in the past fiercely said in his weekly address, which had an environmental theme to attacked the United States and the mark Earth Day on April 22. “Climate change can no longer be West in general, blaming them for denied, or ignored,” he added, noting that 2014 was the hottest year the Ukraine crisis, which Russia on record. The United States is the second largest greenhouse gas says was the result of a Western- emitter after China, and Obama has pledged to reduce US climate backed “coup” against Ukraine’s pollution by 26-28 percent from 2005 levels by 2025. “This is an former leader Viktor Yanukovich. issue that’s bigger and longer-lasting than my presidency,” Obama Russia has repeatedly denied said. “This is the only planet we’ve got. And years from now, I want accusations from Kiev and the to be able to look our children and grandchildren in the eye and West that it is supporting pro- tell them that we did everything we could to protect it.” Obama, Russian rebels with troops and who has made the fight against climate change one of his priorities, weapons in eastern Ukraine, hopes to help seal a global deal at an international climate confer- where more than 6,000 people ence in Paris in December. have been killed since last April. His latest remark comes two 79pc dissatisfied with Hollande: Poll days after an annual TV phone-in show in which Putin accused the PARIS: President Francois Hollande’s approval rating has risen, United States of trying to domi- A replica of the French navy frigate L’Hermione, which played a key role in the American Revolution, sets sail but the vast majority of French voters remain unhappy with his nate world affairs. REUTERS on its maiden voyage to the United States from Fouras, southwestern France, yesterday. performance, casting doubt on his re-election chances, said an opinion poll published yesterday. The Opinionway survey in Le Figaro newspaper said 20 percent of voters approved of Hollande, five points up from the last such poll in October. However, three years after taking office, some 79 percent said they were dissatis- fied with the president. Hollande’s ratings fell to record lows for a My, my! Many Britons ignorant about Battle of Waterloo French head of state last year, hitting 13 percent in one September survey. The Opinionway survey said that if a vote were held today, LONDON: As Britain prepares absolutely nothing about it. they showed greater recognition described by Wellington as “a he would not even make it through to the second round run-off. to commemorate the 200th Just over half — 53 percent — of London’s Waterloo Station — 54 close run thing”, it brought an anniversary of the Battle of correctly knew that the Duke of percent — and the song Waterloo end to the Napoleonic Wars and Lenin statues toppled in east Ukraine Waterloo, a survey shows that Wellington had led the British by Swedish pop group ABBA — set the stage for an era of British many Britons know little about army against Napoleon’s French 47 percent — than they did about domination of much of the world. KHARKIV: Masked men have toppled several statues of the the fight and associate the name forces. Participants who did not the battle. A series of events, including re- Soviet leader Lenin in eastern Ukraine, authorities said yester- with an ABBA song or a London know put forward the names The 1974 ABBA song begins enactments, are planned across day, in a fresh show of anti-Russian sentiment as Kiev battles pro- railway station. of Francis Drake, Winston with the line: My, my, at Waterloo the country and book shops are Moscow separatists. Two statues were demolished at universities in The National Army Museum Churchill, King Arthur and Napoleon did surrender. filled with new studies. the government-controlled city of Kharkiv late on Friday, shown in survey revealed that more than even Harry Potter wizard Albus The survey results might be But, said National Army videos posted on YouTube, a week after Kiev’s parliament approved a quarter of the people surveyed Dumbledore as the possible something of a shock as Britain Museum director Janice Murray: a law banning Soviet symbols in Ukraine. In the video, a group of — 28 percent — had no idea who commander. gears up to commemorate the “Despite the Battle of Waterloo men hook a noose around the neck of the first statue and tug it to won the battle and 14 percent Young people showed a particu- battle fought on June 18, 1815, being an iconic moment in British the ground where it shatters. Then they cut the lock on the gate to believed the French were victo- lar lack of awareness. just outside Brussels in Belgium. history, UK public awareness is a second location and use a van to tug another statue down. The rious over the British and their Asked what came to mind Generally considered one dramatically low.” bill, which also bans Nazi symbols, is yet to be signed into law by Prussian allies. One if five knew when Waterloo was mentioned, of history’s great battles and REUTERS President Petro Poroshenko. AGENCIES SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 12 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com ASIA / AFRICA Xenophobic violence spreads in S Africa President Zuma cancels state visit to Indonesia JOHANNESBURG: South refuge in makeshift camps. fired rubber bullets to disperse African President Jacob “We reiterate our message that the looters. Zuma cancelled a state visit there can be no justification for “More than 30 people were to Indonesia yesterday as offi- the attacks on foreign nationals. arrested last night. At this stage cials scrambled to respond to These attacks go against every- the situation is calm but we plan deadly xenophobic violence, with thing we believe in,” Zuma said, to increase our deployment,” scores of new arrests made in announcing that he would scrap police spokesman Dlamini said. Johannesburg. his Indonesia trip “to attend to “They are going to be charged A foreigner was killed in matters at home relating to the for public violence, malicious Johannesburg, where violence attacks on foreign nationals.” damage to property, house break- erupted earlier this week, fol- The decision came amid grow- ing and theft,” he said. lowing unrest in the eastern port ing alarm within South Africa The violence has been largely city of Durban, police said yester- — and from the United Nations blamed on a speech last month day. However, they refused to say and foreign capitals — over the by King Goodwill Zwelithini, tra- whether the killing was directly attacks. ditional leader of the Zulus, in linked to the anti-foreigner Neighbouring Zimbabwe, which he blamed foreigners for Locals harass a motorist who was driving past a hostel during the anti-immigrant violence in Johannesburg. attacks that have already claimed Malawi and Mozambique have South Africa’s high crime rate at least six lives. announced plans to evacuate their and said they must “take their “(I) can confirm that a case citizens. bags and go”. all leaders to work together to radio station has stopped playing has assured us that this is not of murder is being opened and Reflecting international con- The king has since said his bring the situation to normality. South African music in protest the South African way,” Mugabe police will be investigating cir- cern, the United Nations High words were misinterpreted, but Working together we will be able against the xenophobic attacks. said during the country’s 35th cumstances of his death,” police Commissioner for Refugees noted for some, Zwelithini simply artic- to overcome this challenge.” And in the Zimbabwean capital independence anniversary, when spokesman Lungelo Dlamini said, most victims targeted “are refu- ulated what many were feeling. However, anger is growing at Harare, demonstrators marched he also noted his “shock and dis- saying investigations continue to gees and asylum seekers who In cancelling his Indonesian South Africa across the region. to the South African embassy gust as we abhor the incident that determine whether “the incident were forced to leave their coun- visit, Zuma rejected that notion. In Mozambique, a group of to condemn what they called happened in Durban where some is related to threats of foreign tries due to war and persecution.” “The majority of South Africans about 200 people on Friday block- the “senseless and gruesome five or six people were burnt to nationals”. Yesterday’s violence was love peace and good relations with aded the southern Lebombo bor- slaughter” of fellow Africans — death deliberately by some mem- In addition to the fatali- focused in Alexandra, an their brothers and sisters in the der with South Africa, stoning a protest Zimbabwe’s President bers of the South African Zulu ties, the unrest has forced more impoverished township north continent. We will engage stake- South African vehicles. Robert Mugabe echoed yesterday. community.” than 5,000 foreigners to seek of Johannesburg, where police holders next week as we need In Zambia, a privately-owned “We are glad President Zuma AFP ‘Mysterious’ disease kills 17 in Nigeria LAGOS: A “mysterious” dis- The disease, whose symptoms sudden blurred vision, headache, There is no patient of the disease Australia arrests ease that kills patients within include headache, weight loss, loss of consciousness followed by in any hospital and the disease 24 hours has claimed at least 17 blurred vision and loss of con- death, occurring within 24 hours,” has not spread beyond the town,” lives in a southeastern Nigerian sciousness, killed the victims spokesman Tarik Jasarevic said he said. town, the government said within 24 hours of their falling in an email. Jasarevic said blood and urine two for planning yesterday. ill, he said. Akinmade said health officials samples had been taken from two “Seventeen people have died Laboratory tests have so far and experts from the government victims and cerebrospinal fluid of the mysterious disease since ruled out Ebola or any other and aid agencies, as well as WHO from another. it broke out early this week virus, Akinmade added. epidemiologists, have arrived in “All samples have been sent in Ode-Irele town,” the gov- The World Health Organization Ode-Irele. to Lagos University Teaching terrorist attack ernment spokesman for Ondo said it had information on 14 “Outside a total of 17 deaths Hospital this morning, and results state, Kayode Akinmade, said by cases with at least 12 dead. recorded, in the past 72 hours are still pending. Investigations SYDNEY: Two men were campaign in what is now Turkey. telephone. “Common symptoms were we have not recorded new cases. are still ongoing,” he said. AFP arrested in Australia yesterday More than 60,000 Australian for allegedly planning an Islamic and New Zealand troops joined State-inspired terrorist attack an Allied expeditionary landing on using “edged knives” on a cer- the peninsula in 1915, and 11,500 of emony commemorating Anzac them never returned. US-Philippine war games start tomorrow soldiers who have fought and A third man held in yesterday’s died for their country. raids, also 18, was arrested on MANILA: Thousands of Philippines’ exclusive economic Seven search warrants were weapons charges with two other American and Filipino soldiers zone. executed in Melbourne by a joint teenagers, aged 18 and 19, in cus- will kick off expanded war Bar ban for US troops in Philippines It has also embarked on giant counter-terrorism team, two tody and assisting with enquiries. games tomorrow, showcasing MANILA: The US Pacific Command has banned its troops in the reclamation works on reefs and months after Prime Minister Police said was it believed a deepening defence alliance as Philippines from bars and nightclubs, a spokesman said yesterday. islets, turning some into islands Tony Abbott warned the threat the attacks would have involved alarm bells ring over China. Thousands of American and Filipino soldiers will begin annual capable of hosting military aircraft from home-grown extremists was “edged knives”, reportedly includ- The 10-day exercises in the military exercises tomorrow. landing strips. worsening. ing a sword, although there was Philippines are an annual affair “There is a 10 pm curfew. The restrictions include no bars and The Philippines has been the Police said two 18-year-olds no direct evidence to suggest between the long-time allies, but clubs,” the spokesman for the US forces said. most vocal of the rival claimants to were held over terrorism-related a beheading, a killing method this time they will involve double He also said that US soldiers will only be allowed to eat meals “in express alarm over China’s moves. offences. favoured by jihadists. the number of soldiers as last year the vicinity of their place of dwelling,” for example at their hotel. Aquino has warned that the “It is alleged both men were “At this stage we have no infor- in a sign of their expanding mili- A US serviceman was arrested for the murder of a transgender world should fear China’s actions undertaking preparations for plan- mation that it was a planned tary partnership. Filipina he met in a bar in October after taking part in military in the South China Sea. ning terrorist acts in Melbourne, beheading. But there was ref- The Philippines is seeking more exercises in the Philippines. The soldier is being tried for the crime China has repeatedly insisted it which included targeting police erence to an attack on police,” US military and diplomatic sup- in the Philippine city of Olongapo. AFP has sovereign rights to the con- officers,” Victoria state and federal Victoria Police Acting Deputy port to fend off China’s increas- tested areas, so criticism of its police said in a joint statement. Commissioner Shane Patton told ing forcefulness in its bid to assert but he discussed at length the Beijing claims sovereignty over reclamation and other activities “Part of their alleged planning a news conference. sovereignty in disputed areas of Philippines’ reliance on the United most of the strategically impor- in the area are baseless. included targeting an Anzac Day “Some evidence that was col- the South China Sea. States. tant South China Sea, including The US and the Philippines, ceremony.” lected at a couple of the scenes and In an interview last week, Foreign Affairs Secretary areas just off the coasts of other bound by a 1951 mutual defence Ceremonies are due to be held in some other information we have Philippine President Benigno Albert del Rosario also said last Asian nations, using vague demar- treaty, last year signed another towns and cities across the coun- leads us to believe that this par- Aquino said the two militaries week the Philippines planned to cation lines that first appeared on pact that would allow more US try on April 25 to remember those ticular matter was ISIS-inspired.” operating side-by-side should ask Washington for extra help in Chinese maps in the 1940s. forces in the Philippines, although who served and died as Australian ISIS is another name used to offer a “deterrent aspect to any containing China. The Philippines, Vietnam, the Supreme Court in Manila still and New Zealand Army Corps sol- refer to the Islamic State group. entity, be it a country or Islamic “We are, at this point, seeking Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have needs to ratify it. diers — the country’s most impor- The Age newspaper said the radicals”. additional support from the US overlapping claims. Even without the implementa- tant national occasion. men arrested were “associates” Aquino insisted the Balikatan in terms of being able to take a China has sought to expand its tion of the new pact, more than This year’s events have assumed but not relatives of Numan Haider, (Shoulder-to-Shoulder) war stronger position, in defending presence in disputed parts of the 12,000 soldiers from both sides will added significance with the day who was shot and killed by coun- games starting tomorrow were our position, which is to uphold sea in recent years, including by be involved in this year’s Balikatan marking a century since the terterrorism police in September not directed at China, pointing the rule of law,” del Rosario told taking control of a shoal that is exercises. bloody World War I Gallipoli last year in Melbourne. AFP out they were annual exercises, local broadcaster ANC. a rich fishing ground within the AFP

Protest in South Korea Two UN drivers Everest mountaineers mourn killed in Mali avalanche dead one year on BAMAKO: Two drivers were shot dead in an attack on a KATHMANDU: Hundreds of Monks in Kathmandu chanted peacekeeping supply convoy in mountaineers and Sherpas in prayers and played traditional northern Mali. Nepal paid emotional tribute music in a monastery surrounded The assailants stopped the con- yesterday to 16 of their fellow by family members of one of voy some 15 kilometres from the guides who died in an avalanche the avalanche victims, Ang Kaji main city of Gao and “coldly killed on Everest a year ago, suspend- Sherpa, a single father with five two of the drivers” in the attack ing climbing for the day. children. on Friday, the UN Mission in Mali, The avalanche tore through a Team leaders of expedition known as MINUSMA, said in a group of Sherpas hauling gear up groups gathered at the Everest statement. the mountain on the morning of base camp to observe a moment of A third person was wounded, April 18, 2014, sending shock waves silence for the victims, while oth- said MINUSMA, adding that through the climbing community. ers held small memorial services. it “firmly condemns this latest The disaster triggered an The government yesterday attack targeting innocent civilians unprecedented shutdown of the announced the creation of a wel- and will make every effort to catch 8,848-metre mountain, fuelling fare fund to support victims of those responsible and bring them demands for better compensation mountaineering accidents. to justice”. as well as higher death and injury “This day is a tragic reminder A suicide bomber struck a benefit payouts to the Sherpas’ that we need to work together to UN barracks in northern Mali’s families. make it safe for those who work Ansongo on Wednesday, killing “All teams here have decided in this business and promise secu- two civilians and wounding nine not to climb today to mourn the rity for their families,” said Tulsi peacekeepers from Niger in an Riot police spray South Korean protesters with water cannons in front of the main gate to the Gyeongbok Palace friends we lost last year,” Pasang Gautam, Nepal tourism depart- attack later claimed by an Al during a rally to commemorate the first anniversary of the Sewol ferry disaster, in Seoul yesterday. Sherpa, a mountaineering guide at ment chief, at an event to mark Qaeda-linked group. AFP Everest base camp, said. the first anniversary. AFP SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 PAKISTAN / AFGHANISTAN www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 13

NAB reopens IS claims Afghan suicide attack: Ghani assets reference 33 killed, 100 hurt in Jalalabad blast against Zardari

JALALABAD: The Islamic claim, which could not be imme- ISLAMABAD: The Rawalpindi State (IS) group claimed diately verified. Accountability Court reopened responsibility for a suicide “Thirty-three dead bodies and yesterday an assets reference attack in Afghanistan yester- more than 100 wounded were against former president Asif day that killed 33 people and brought to the hospital,” Dr Ali Zardari and summoned him wounded more than 100 others, Najeebullah Kamawal, head of the on April 27 to respond to the President Ashraf Ghani said, provincial hospital, said. decision to reopen the case. in what appears to be the first The UN gave a higher toll, say- The National Accountability major attack by the jihadists in ing 35 people had been killed and Bureau’s Special Prosecutor Raja the country. provincial government spokesman Khurram Ejaz urged the court to Ghani’s government has repeat- Ahmad Zia Abdulzai said 115 peo- reopen the reference and said Mr edly raised the ominous pros- ple were wounded, four of them Zardari’s presidential immunity pect of IS making inroads into critically. expired after he had left the office Afghanistan, though the group Separately, two explosives- and he could now be tried. that has captured swathes of ter- rigged motorcycles were discov- The reference against the ritory in Syria and Iraq has never ered in Jalalabad and destroyed former president was closed in formally acknowledged having a with controlled detonations, the 2010. NAB spokesman Nawazish presence in Afghanistan. interior ministry said. Ali declined to make any com- The Taliban have seen defec- Ghani strongly condemned the ment on the matter because, he tions to the group in recent suicide attack, in which children said, the matter was sub judice. months, with some self-styled IS were among those killed, his office In the reference, Mr Zardari and insurgents voicing their disaffec- said in a statement. his slain wife, former Prime Minister tion with their one-eyed supreme “Carrying out terrorist attacks Benazir Bhutto, were accused of ille- leader Mullah Omar, who has not in cities and public places are the gally acquiring assets. The case was been seen since the 2001 US-led most cowardly acts of terror by also tried in a Swiss court. invasion of Afghanistan. terrorists targeting innocent Last year, the Islamabad Yesterday a suicide bomber civilians,” he said. Accountability Court cleared the killed 33 people and wounded The attack comes as PPP co-chairman in three cor- 115 others outside the state-run Afghanistan braces for what ruption references filed by NAB Kabul Bank in the eastern city of is expected to be a bloody push 17 years ago. But he still faces the Jalalabad as government officials by the Taliban — still the most People run for cover after an explosion in Jalalabad yesterday. SGS and Cotecna references. were drawing their salaries, in the potent threat to the government Zardari’s lawyer Senator deadliest attack since November. — at the start of the spring fight- but the IS presence has never Mission in Afghanistan plans to shrink the US force in Farooq Naek said he would appear The scene of the bombing ing season. been confidently confirmed and (UNAMA) attributed the rise to Afghanistan this year by nearly before the Rawalpindi court on showed the gruesome scale of However, the Taliban swiftly we still have to be cautious about an intensification in ground fight- half, an overture to the country’s April 27 on behalf of his client. the carnage with victims lying denied responsibility for claims made in the name of IS.” ing, resulting in a total of 10,548 new reform-minded leader, Ghani. According to sources, the reo- in pools of blood and body parts Saturday’s carnage — as it often The militants have stepped up civilian casualties last year. Hosting Ghani at the White pening of the reference was neces- scattered across the ground. does for attacks with large civilian attacks on government and for- In a statement UNAMA con- House for their first presiden- sary to seek mutual legal assistance “Who claimed responsibility casualties. eign targets since Washington demned Saturday’s attack and tial face-to-face meeting, Obama from Switzerland for repatriation for horrific attack in Nangarhar “The announcement by the IS announced a delay in troop with- the “indiscriminate tactic it rep- agreed to keep the current level of Zardari’s assets for which the today? The Taliban did not claim today is alarming, if verified, and drawals from Afghanistan. resents, which is exacting such of 9,800 US troops until the end govern-ment had recently written responsibility for the attack, would mean that Afghanistan The uptick in attacks in recent an unacceptable toll on Afghan of 2015. to the Swiss authorities. Daesh (IS) claimed responsibil- should prepare for a bloody sum- days has taken a heavy toll on civilians”. The Taliban, who have waged a The Swiss authorities have been ity,” Ghani said, without offering mer — maybe the bloodiest in ordinary Afghans. Nato’s combat mission formally deadly insurgency since they were informed that the authorities in any further details. the past 14 years,” Haroon Mir, The number of civilians killed ended in December but a small ousted from power in late 2001, Pakistan are conducting an investi- A person purporting to be an a Kabul-based political analyst, and wounded in Afghanistan follow-up foreign force has stayed warned that the announcement gation against Mr Zardari and oth- IS spokesman said in a call to said. jumped 22 percent in 2014, a on to train and support the local would damage any prospects of ers with the objective of obtaining a said that the group was behind “We have been seeing Taliban recent UN report said, as Nato security forces. peace talks as they vowed to con- penal judgement and confiscating a the bombing. An online posting commanders switching allegiance troops withdrew from combat. US President Barack Obama tinue fighting. specific asset, a jewel1ery set. allegedly from IS made the same to IS and raising their black flag... The United Nations Assistance last month backpedalled on AFP INTERNEWS

Pak-Afghan polio meeting Lawmakers call for Chinese investment in K P Province ISLAMABAD: The Khyber government that while signing to CPEC. Reading out the reso- Hussain Babak of ANP, Munawar of Punjab only by ignoring other cancelled over Pakhtunkhwa Provincial the investment agreements and lution, Sikandar Hayat said the Khan of JUI-F, Shaukat Yousafzai provinces. Assembly yesterday urged MoUs during the China‘s presi- assembly welcomed Chinese of PTI, Saeed Gul of JI, Aneesa “The prime minister represents the federal government not to dent visit, the problems and mis- President Xi Jinping to Pakistan Zaib Tahirkheli of QWP, and all provinces and not Punjab only,” security threats ignore backwardness and mis- eries of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and during his forthcoming visit along others. he said. ery of the province and Fata its adjoining tribal belt must not with a high-powered delegation. Earlier, Sikandar Sherpao Babak said Khyber ISLAMABAD: A meeting of caused by protracted militancy be overlooked at any cost rather ‘This assembly believes that requested Speaker Asad Qaisar on Pakhtunkhwa and Fata had suf- officials of Pakistani and Afghan while signing socioeconomic this region‘s vulnerability to this visit, apart from further a point of order to relax rules to fered a lot due to militancy and health departments in Kabul, agreements with China dur- extremism, terrorism and back- strengthening the bond of long- allow him to table the resolution. therefore, the region shouldbe which was also to be attended by ing the upcoming visit of the wardness should be highlighted so standing friendship between the The speaker allowed him given preferential reflection in representatives of UN agencies, Chinese president to Pakistan. as to secure more investment for two neighbours, will also pave the and the resolution was passed economic agreements with China. was cancelled because of secu- The call was given in a unani- KP and Fata,‘ read the resolution. way for ensuring greater Chinese unanimously. Public health engineering rity concerns. mously adopted resolution, which The house also demanded investment in Pakistan,‘ he said. Sardar Hussain Babak, while minister Shah Farman said the The meeting scheduled for was tabled by Qaumi Watan Party through the resolution that the The resolution carried signa- speaking on the floor of the centre had adopted a discrimi- Thursday and yesterday was can- parliamentary leader Sikandar western route for China-Pakistan tures of both treasury and oppo- house, came down hard on Prime natory attitude towards Khyber celled on the request of Afghan Hayat Sherpao. economic corridor be included in sition members, including law Minister Nawaz Sharif for what Pakhtunkhwa. government. A proposal to hold ‘This assembly urges the federal the early harvest plans relating minister Imtiaz Shahid, Sardar he called thinking for the benefits INTERNEWS the meeting in Islamabad is now being considered. Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only coun- tries which have been transfer- ring poliovirus to each other. The major reason is their porous bor- Marine forces arrest der which is about 2,500km long. Although children are vac- cinated at the border crossing points, a large number of people 47 Indian fishermen cross the border illegally through various routes and it is impossible KARACHI: Pakistani marine carried out by both countries, to vaccinate them. forces yesterday arrested 47 as the maritime border in the An official of the Ministry of Indian fishermen for allegedly Arabian Sea is poorly defined National Health Services said that violating territorial waters in and many fishing boats lack the Afghanistan would be asked dur- the Arabian Sea, police said. technology needed to be certain ing the next meeting to carry out Pakistan’s Maritime Security of their precise location. polio vaccination campaigns on the Agency also captured eight boats The fishermen often languish in same days as in the border areas belonging to the fishermen, who jail even after serving their term, of Pakistan to stop transfer of the it said had strayed into Pakistani as poor diplomatic ties between virus from one country to the other. waters. The fishermen were later the two arch-rivals mean fulfill- “The virus is travelling between handed over to local police in the ing official requirements can take the two countries because of the port city of Karachi. a long time. porous border as Pakistan is hosting “We have been given the cus- Pakistan released 172 Indian 1.6 million Afghan refugees,” he said. tody of the 47 Indian fishermen fishermen in February as “a good- “Because of the refugees polio- who have been arrested from will gesture” but arrested 45 oth- virus travels between the coun- the sea for violating territorial ers last month. tries. Moreover, many times waters,” Fida Hussain, a senior A Pakistani jail official in it happens that refugees enter police official in Karachi, said. Karachi said that they already Afghanistan before start of an “We will present these detain- had 428 Indian inmates in cus- anti-polio campaign in Pakistan ees to court for completion of the tody before the fresh arrests and come back before start of a A policeman writes details as he speaks with Indian fishermen arrested for suspected fishing in Pakistani waters due legal procedure,” he said. yesterday. campaign in Afghanistan,” he said. at a police station in Karachi yesterday. Such arrests are frequently AFP “Those persons are a major source of transfer of poliovirus and polio cases are reported in their chil- dren or because of them,” he said. “So it was suggested that anti- polio campaigns should start simultaneously on both sides of Ministry bans use of wood packaging for exports the border to ensure that not a single child is missed,” he said. ISLAMABAD: The Department considering phytosanitary meas- According to the circular, no on April 16, 2015 said the asso- similar standard of wooden pack- The official said all arrange- of Plant Protection (DPP), ures since wood is a pathway to official phytosanitary certificate ciation is against the use of wood ing, the cost would far outweigh ments had been finalised and a del- Ministry of National Food the introduction of pests. shall be issued to any perishables packaging currently in use. the cost of corrugated packag- egation led by the Prime Minister’s Security and Research (MNFSR), DPP had received serious (fruits and vegetables) intended ‘It is untreated wood and poor ing,‘ the letter said. By complying Focal Person on Polio Eradication, in Pakistan has banned the use of warnings from the European for export in wood packaging. in presentation. Some countries with international best practices, Senator Ayesha Raza Farooq, wood packaging including crates, Union and other countries due to Co-Chairman All Pakistan still use wood but their packaging the quality and price of Pakistani was scheduled to go to Kabul on boxes and cases, for storing increasing interceptions of con- Fruit and Vegetable Exporters complies with international stand- mangoes and other produce would Thursday to attend the meeting fruits and vegetables intended for signments infested with pests and Importers and Merchants ards. The wood is treated, evenly improve and additional markets can that was to begin in the evening. exports from May 20, 2015. deterioration in quality due to use Association (PFVA) Waheed coloured, well presented and sus- be tapped, the letter added. INTERNEWS The decision has been taken of wooden packaging. Ahmed in a letter to the MNFSR tainably sourced. If exporters use INTERNEWS SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 14 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com INDIA Shutdown disrupts life in Karnataka Agitation over river water peaceful BENGALURU: A 12-hour the dam soon. “The chief minis- dawn-to-dusk shutdown, which ter (Siddaramaiah) has assured crippled normal life in many us of leading a delegation to the parts of Karnataka yesterday, prime minister for central gov- ended peacefully barring stray ernment’s intervention in resolv- incidents. ing the issue with Tamil Nadu The shutdown, called by about amicably,” a Kannada Rakshna 70 Kannada organisations and Vedike (protection group) leader regional parties, in support of told reporters after a 30-minute building a reservoir (dam) across meeting with the former at his the Cauvery river at Mekadutu residence. for hydro power and drinking The shutdown brought normal water supply in the old Mysuru life to a standstill, with schools, region, received a huge response colleges, markets, hotels, malls, from the people in many cities petrol bunks and movie theatres and towns across the state. closed in cities and towns across “The shutdown was by and the old Mysore and Malnad large peaceful barring a few inci- regions, though life in the state’s dents of stone-throwing, burning coastal and northern regions of effigies and blocking of roads remained unaffected. Congress party Vice-President Rahul Gandhi (centre, in white), surrounded by his security personnel, speaks to farmers outside his residence in New and state highways to stop vehic- Though state-run transport Delhi yesterday. ular movement. We also made corporations did not join the shut- preventive arrests to maintain down, buses were not operated in law and order,” a senior police the city and across the old Mysore official told IANS. region. Private buses, maxi-cabs, All eyes on Rahul for farmers’ rally today The state government’s plan taxis and auto-rickshwas also to build the dam at Mekedatu in kept off roads. NEW DELHI: Back after a nearly two months since the procured. The Congress is “deter- the Narendra Modi-government’s Kanakapura taluk, about 100km Train and flight services, how- 56-day break from politics, budget session of parliament mined to oppose” the land bill “anti-farmer and anti-poor” from Bengaluru, is facing opposi- ever, remained unaffected though Rahul Gandhi along with party began on February 23. He that will be introduced in the Lok policies. tion from Tamil Nadu, the south- hundreds of passengers faced president Sonia Gandhi will returned here on April 16 from Sabha for the second time in the “We will protest against the ern riparian state, which shares hardships to commute from rail- address a rally today over the an undisclosed destination where upcoming session, said Congress Draconian land acquisition ordi- the river water as per the tribunal way stations and the airport in land acquisition bill and against he was said to have retreated in leader Anand Sharma. nance 2015 and raise voice for award. the absence of public or private the Narendra Modi government a leave of absence from politics. “They will face a brick wall of the stress caused to farmers by The 800 km-long Cauvery river, transport. policies that the party describes On the eve of the second half of opposition,” he said, adding that the damage of 200 lakh hectare which originates at Talakaveri Emergency services, hospitals, as “anti-farmer”. the budget session set to recon- Rahul Gandhi is likely to address of land...” near Kodagu in the rich bio- medical shops, supply of milk, The “kisan khet mazdoor” vene on April 20, farmers will the Lok Sabha on the issue this Following a trail of destruc- diverse Western Ghats region, vegetables and essential com- (farmer-farms labour) rally is converge here to attend the rally time. The party vice president tion caused by unseasonal rain flows southwards to Tamil Nadu, modities were exempted from the being widely seen as a show of at Ramlila Maidan, where most held meetings on Saturday with and hailstorm across the agrarian Puducherry and Kerala and shutdown. strength for a party desperate to political protests in the capital multiple delegations of farmers states in the country, the partially finally joins the Bay of Bengal sea. Hundreds of Kannada Vedike reverse its sliding fortunes after a are held. from Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, damaged crop lying in wholesale is After holding demos and proces- Parishad activists and members string of election drubbings. The Congress, which has been Haryana, Punjab and Madhya yet to be picked up by the govern- sions across Bengaluru, Mandya, of the Kannada film fraternity, Rahul Gandhi, who led a ‘pady- strongly opposing changes in the Pradesh to hear their issues ment. “We would raise the issue Mysuru and Chamarajanagar cadres of the Kannada Chalavali atra’, a protest march in Bhatta original legislation on land acqui- regarding the land acquisition at the rally since the government in the state’s southern region, a Vatal Paksha (KCVP), a state Parsaul in 2011 against the then sition brought by its government ordinance as well as their concern is rejecting that crop on the plea huge rally was held at Freedom political outfit, and various social Mayawati government’s land in 2013, is protesting the dilution due to the crop loss. that it has 14 percent moisture Park in this tech hub where lead- and cultural organisations partic- acquisition in Uttar Pradesh, of the original consent clause Congress spokesperson content. But even the good crop ers of Kannada organisations and ipated in the day-long shutdown will be seen in the forefront once which makes it mandatory to Randeep Surjewala told IANS would have some. Where would regional political outfits urged amid tight security. again at the farmers’ rally here. secure 80 percent approval of that the rally is being organised the poor farmer go for help,” the state government to build IANS He was not seen in public for those dependent on the land being at a mammoth scale to protest asked Surjewala. IANS

Not appointing Parliament likely RSS-leaning Tutu meets Dalai in to be rocked by people: Minister Himachal abode land bill rumpus

NEW DELHI: Human DHARAMSALA: South will meet in Dharamsala later next week Resource Development African anti-apartheid leader this month as well as marking the Minister Smriti Irani yesterday Archbishop Desmond Tutu Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday, they NEW DELHI: The second denied that she was appointing yesterday reached this north will spend time “in deep dialogue half of the budget session which people with personal, politi- Indian hill station to meet his and playful laughter as they share kicks off next week is all set to cal and ideological affiliation long-time friend and fellow their experience of how to find joy be a stormy affair with the gov- to the Rastriya Swayamsevak Nobel laureate the Dalai Lama. in the face of life’s challenges”, ernment determined to push Sangh(RSS) in her ministry. An official of the Dalai Lama’s said The Guardian on April 15, through the land acquisition “Do people have no right to job office told IANS that Tutu would quoting publisher Hutchinson. bill and the opposition making merely because they hold a right- stay here till April 26 and will It acquired the pair’s collabora- all efforts to stall it. wing opinion? Should a person be attend a series of functions being tive “The Book of Joy” in what the Besides the land bill, parlia- denied an appointment because organised by the Central Tibetan bookseller described as a “very ment is also scheduled to take he is holding certain personal Administration (CTA) here in his spirited” 12-way auction. up other important bills like political views close to RSS? honour. Their discussion will form the the Real Estate (Regulation and Nobody with a personal, political Expressing a gesture of friend- basis of the text, with the pair Development) Bill, the Goods and ideological affiliation to RSS ship, the Buddhist monk spe- — who call each other “spiritual and Services Tax Bill and the is appointed knowingly,” Irani said cially visited the Gaggal airport, brother” — also inviting members Undisclosed Foreign Income in an interwiew with Times Now 15km from his official palace at of the public to ask the questions and Assets (Imposition of Tax) channel. McLeodganj, to receive Tutu in about joy and happiness they most Bill, also called the anti-black Asked about the appointment the morning. want answered on the authors’ money bill. Dina Nath Batra as the head This has been Tutu’s second Facebook pages. The land bill seeks to convert of Indian Council of Historical visit to the CTA headquarters The most popular will be an ordinance that amended the Research (ICHR), she said, since 2012. addressed during the meetings 2013 version of the bill passed by “When professor Batra was Officials said Tutu last visited this April, said the paper. the UPA government. The ordi- appointed as national profes- McLeodganj on February 10, 2012, The Dalai Lama has lived in nance was re-promulgated last sor by the then HRD minister after the globe-trotting monk had exile in India since he fled Tibet month. This was because the bill Arjun Singh, he was secular but called off his South Africa visit as during a failed uprising in 1959. was passed in the Lok Sabha in becomes communal when Smriti it was “inconvenient” for the gov- He favours “greater autonomy” February but was not brought to Irani appoints him.” Irani rub- ernment there to grant him a visa for Tibetans rather than complete the Upper House as the govern- bished the impression that she as it had close ties with China. independence. ment failed to convince the oppo- was being cornered in the BJP, At that time the Dalai Lama Chinese leaders have, however, sition parties, who have opposed saying: “I enjoy the confidence of was invited by Tutu on his 80th called him a separatist who wants it tooth and nail. senior party leaders...”. South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu (left) and Tibetan spiritual leader birthday. Tibet to secede from China. While the NDA has a brute IANS Dalai Lama at Kangra airport near Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh, yesterday. The two Nobel peace laureates IANS majority of 335 in the Lok Sabha, it is numerically much weaker in the Rajya Sabha with just 63 seats. The Janata Parivar has 15 members in the Lok Sabha and the Congress 44. In the Upper Indian ships back home after Yemen evacuations House, the Congress has 70 members. MUMBAI/KOCHI: INS with the two ships helping evacu- earned global admiration, was few options for people wanting to government launched ‘Operation While government sources Tarkash that participated in ate 1,783 Indians and 1,291 foreign launched to rescue Indian nation- leave the country. Rahat’ to evacuate all Indian hinted that a joint session might Operation Rahat, returned to nationals from 30 countries from als stranded in various parts of The Indian diaspora in Yemen nationals from there on be called to get the bill passed, a hero’s welcome at Mumbai the strife-torn Yemen over the Yemen following a bloody civil war was estimated at around 4,000, March 30. officially the NDA maintained harbour here yesterday, while past three weeks. in that country, military interven- many of them working and living In all, ships undertook nine that there would be no need for two passenger ships with the The ships’ crew was greeted tion by Saudi Arabia and other there since decades. missions and evacuated 3,074 this. last batch of Indians evacuated by senior officers of the com- nations, resulting in continuous A majority of them were located people, including 1,291 foreign- “As of now, we are not dis- from Yemen reached Kochi, an mand and the Indian Navy aerial bombardments around that in and around Yemen’s capital city ers from more than 30 countries, cussing a joint session,” Minister official said. chief, Admiral R K Dhowan, country. of Sana’a that witnessed a lot of between March 31 ans April 15. of State for Parliamentary It was preceded by the return will be interacting with the crew The situation led to all airports violence. After a majority of Indian Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi of another ship, INS Mumbai, tomorrow. and seaports in Yemen being crip- As the situation contin- nationals evacuated, the two naval told IANS. which returned here last Friday, ‘Operation Rahat’, which pled, barring Al Hodeidah, leaving ued to deteriorate, the Indian ships returned home. IANS IANS SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 INDIA www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 15

Himachal CM Kashmir cops shoot teenager dead accused of Anger boils over as relative of boy claims he was taken aside and shot at point-blank range corruption in

SRINAGAR: Police shot dead A separate police statement tunnel project a 16-year-old boy yesterday dur- appeared to admit that there had ing an anti-India demonstra- been police wrongdoing. SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh tion in Kashmir as a separatist We “regret the unfortunate Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh strike shut down the Himalayan incident”, the statement said. has been receiving favours from region on a second day of violent “A preliminary enquiry con- a company which has been con- clashes, officials said. ducted into the matter indicates structing a strategically impor- The uncle of the boy said police that the forces deployed have tant tunnel in the state, BJP first detained his nephew before acted in violation of the laid- leader and former chief minis- shooting him at point-blank down SOP (Standard Operating ter Prem Kumar Dhumal’s son range in front of dozens of other Procedure),” it added. alleged yesterday. protesters. Kashmir has been rocked by The foundation stone of the Police said they would inves- violent protests this week after $290m Rohtang tunnel was tigate the uncle’s allegations the brother of a top rebel leader laid by the United Progressive while admitting that officers was killed by the army near the Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia had breached normal protocol town of Tral in the south of the Gandhi on June 28, 2010, in the and saying they regretted the Kashmir valley. picturesque Solang valley near incident. Shops, businesses and schools Manali town. The shooting happened dur- remained shut yesterday across Arun Dhumal said the com- ing a protest on the outskirts of several towns in the state in pany — Strabag-Afcons, a joint Srinagar, the main city of Indian- response to a strike led by top venture between India’s Afcons administered Kashmir, against a separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani Infrastructure Ltd and Strabag government crackdown on sepa- against what he called “state ter- SE of Austria — has been paying ratist leaders — the second day rorism” and “poisonous propa- rent worth hundreds of thousands of violent clashes in the disputed ganda” by Indian media. of rupees to one of the family Muslim-majority state. Authorities have put all top members of the chief minister. “The boy died of bullet wounds,” separatist leaders under house Talking to reporters in Shimla, Aijaz Mustafa, a local hospital arrest to prevent them from lead- he said the company was awarded spokesman, told AFP. ing protests. the contract by the previous Three others were also On Friday, 30 people, mainly Congress government at the wounded, witnesses said. police officers, were injured as Centre. At that time Virbhadra “The police officer took my pro-Pakistan demonstrators set Kashmiri protesters throw stones at police and paramilitary troops in Narbal on the outskirts of Srinagar yesterday . Singh was union minister. nephew aside and then shot him fire to an Indian flag and hurled “... as per my information, the point-blank as we watched,” rocks at them as protests over 2010 when he organised a series Kashmir has been divided Pakistan, street protests have company has been paying lakhs Tariq Ahmed Sofi, the boy’s uncle, the arrest of another separatist of mass protests before being between India and Pakistan since become the principal mode of of rupees towards rent to one of told AFP. leader turned violent. detained without charge for four the two countries gained inde- opposition to Indian rule. the members of Virbhadra Singh’s Javid Gillani, inspector general Masarat Alam Bhat was years under controversial public pendence in 1947. Both claim the Violence has declined stead- family. I don’t know where the of police for the region, told AFP: arrested Friday, two days after he safety legislation. territory in its entirety. ily in the region during the last rented property is located. I don’t “if that is true it will come out.” raised pro-Pakistan slogans at a Anti-India sentiment runs deep Although several rebel groups decade but armed encounters know if it’s there or not,” he said. “We will speak to him (the boy’s peaceful separatist rally in which across Kashmir, a picturesque have been fighting Indian forces between rebels and government “Now the completion of the uncle) and investigate his version activists waved Pakistani flags. Himalayan region that is India’s since 1989 for independence or forces occur regularly. tunnel has been delayed by two of the boy’s killing,” he added. Bhat rose to prominence in only Muslim-majority state. a merger of the territory with AFP years, which means that the fam- ily members would keep getting rental income.” The junior Dhumal asked the chief minister to come clear on this. “The chief minister owes an explanation to the public on Opposition cries foul after unrest in Kolkata civic polls this account and any citizen of the state has the right to ques- KOLKATA: Over 62 per- Trinamool Congress claimed it even the West Bengal poll panel higher than the 61.59 recorded means. There were reports of tion him.” cent of the electorate turned was “peaceful like never before”. to express its dissatisfaction over five years ago. The Communist bombs being hurled and bullets The Rohtang tunnel, beneath out yesterday for the Kolkata The polls to the 144 ward civic the conduct of the democratic Party of India-Marxist led Left fired, as the West Bengal State the Rohtang Pass, is being built Municipal Corporation poll body — perceived as precursor to exercise. Front, the Bharatiya Janata Party Election Commission poll panel by the Border Roads Organisation that was dubbed a “farce” by the next year’s assembly polls — According to the poll panel, and the Congress all charged the was flooded with complaints of (BRO), an organisation under the opposition parties. But Chief was marred by reports of violence 62.42 percent turnout was ruling Trinamool with unleash- booth capturing, booth jamming, defence ministry, in collaboration Minister Mamata Banerjee-led and unfair practices prompting recorded which is marginally ing violence and adopting unfair and voter intimidation. IANS with Strabag-Afcons. IANS SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 16 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MORNING BREAK

PRAYER TIME ‘Superman’ checking cellphone Video gamers feel force of new ‘Star Wars Battlefront’ Fajr (Dawn) 3:48 ANAHEIM: Star Wars fans Shorook (Sunrise) 5:07 were given a sneak preview of Zuhr (Noon) 11:33 the latest installment in the “Battlefront” video game series Asr (Afternoon) 3:02 in the US on Friday, as sci-fi fever Maghrib (Sunset) 6:00 builds over the revived franchise. Isha (Night) 7:30 Fans of the science-fiction epic, eagerly awaiting the seventh movie in the franchise in December, will be able to play at being a Jedi on the small-screen when the game WEATHER launches on November 17. A trailer for the new game, Weather Today Monday Tuesday the third in the “Star Wars Conditions: Battlefront” series, gave a tantalis- Sunny Suuny Suuny ing two-minute glimpse of in-game Relatively video at the Star Wars Celebration hot during convention in Anaheim, California. Several famous scenes from the High: 33° High: 33° High: 34° the day with Low: 25° Low: 22° Low: 23° slight dust to original trilogy of “Star Wars” blowing dust films were recreated in the trailer at places at with high-end graphics, includ- times. ing a battle on the forest moon of Endor featured in 1983’s “Return of the Jedi.” DOHA - SUN & SEA The new game, developed by Swedish company Dice, a sub- SUN TIDE SEA sidiary of Electronic Arts, will be SUNRISE | SUNSET HIGH | LOW WIND A participant wearing a Superman costume checks his mobile phone before joining the World DC Comics made available on the PS4 and Xbox gaming consoles as well as 05:07 18:00 04:45 & 17:45 11:00 & 00:00 18-25/30 KT Super Heroes gathering in Manila yesterday. To celebrate the anniversary of the publication of the very first Superman story, DC Comics are asking fans to help set a new world record for the largest global gathering of on personal computers. AFP THE REGION TODAY TOMORROW people dressed as DC Comics Super Heroes. HI/LO WEATHER HI/LO WEATHER

MUSCAT 38/27 Sunny 35/28 Sunny MAKKAH 38/24 Sunny 39/24 Sunny KUWAIT 34/21 Cloudy 36/21 Sunny BAHRAIN 29/22 Cloudy 31/22 Sunny Shark attacks shake surfing paradise SANAA 28/10 Sunny 28/10 Sunny RIYADH 31/17 Sunny 33/19 Sunny SAINT-PAUL, FRANCE: Reunion since 2011. Nine others can’t describe how sad and angry youth and junior surfing teams. DUBAI 31/21 Cloudy 31/21 Sunny Reunion, once a haven for surf- have miraculously survived surf- I am,” commented Reunion’s best Reunion has for years provided BAGHDAD 32/16 Sunny 35/16 Sunny ers from around the world, has ing or swimming near interna- known surfer Jeremy Flores on the core of French teams. become a deadly black spot for tionally known beaches such as his instagram account. The number of surf schools in THE WORLD TODAY TOMORROW the sport now plunged into even St Leu and La Pointe au Sel. Canestri was the second shark Reunion has fallen from 14 to one. deeper mourning after a shark On Wednesday, three days death this year. A 22-year-old Since 2013 when another leading HI/LO WEATHER HI/LO WEATHER mauled Elio Canestri to death. after the killing, Canestri’s father woman was killed as she swam local surfer Fabien Bujon had ATHENS 24/13 Mostly sunny 19/12 Partly cloudy The 13-year-old, one of the Giovanni joined 1,000 others at a in the sea in February. Most of his hand and right foot torn off WASHINGTON 18/12 Showers 26/14 Scattered T-storms Indian Ocean island’s most prom- memorial for his son on the beach. Reunion’s surfers have already by a shark, the authorities have ising young surfers, was killed “I have two children left and I want decided not to take any more banned swimming and water SYDNEY 17/14 Rain 17/14 Rain after he ignored an official ban them to stay alive and I want all of risks however. The number of sports outside of monitored areas. LONDON 14/04 Cloudy 18/04 Sunny and hit the waves with friends. you here to stay alive,” he said as he licensed surfers in Reunion has Reunion now pays for its best PARIS 18/07 Partly cloudy 22/09 Showers Canestri left a note for his pleaded with Reunion’s youngsters fallen from 1,600 when bodyboard surfers to go train far from the ISTANBUL 13/07 Showers 13/09 Sunny mother saying “don’t worry”. But to stay out of the sea. champion Mathieu Schiller was island. The Reunion authorities MANILA 34/26 Scattered T-storms 32/24 T-storms he was dragged off his surfboard Two hundred of the mourners killed in 2011, to 400 now. had planned to open up safe surf- DHAKA 32/26 Scattered T-storms 34/27 Scattered T-storms by a 2.5 metre (eight feet) long went to the government office and Some have remained registered ing zones with extra lifeguards, DELHI 40/26 Sunny 41/25 Partly cloudy bull shark and dragged out to sea. tipped red paint on the road to in Reunion but do not go into observer boats and cameras. But ISLAMABAD 28/18 Isolated T-storms 32/18 Mostly sunny The boy was the seventh fatal protest against the lack of official the sea there, said Christophe the death of Elio Canestri has victim of shark attacks around action against the sharks. “Words Mulquin, coach to the French halted such ideas. AFP Sunday 19 April 2015 30 Jumada II 1436 Volume 20 Number 6405 Price: QR2

Lexus seeks design edge over rivals

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www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Global growth moderate, uneven: IMF nations Emerging nations hit by weak commodity prices, exports

WASHINGTON: The blistering economic growth has Meanwhile, The Group of 20 International Monetary Fund slowed. leading economies on Friday dis- warned in a communique yes- Low inflation remains a con- cussed ways to raise emerging terday that while economic cern for many developed econo- countries’ voting rights at the growth in developed countries mies despite signs the European IMF as part of an effort to move had strengthened, some emerg- Central Bank’s quantitative past US foot-dragging on reforms ing nations were being hit by easing programme has boosted to the institution, but they failed weaker commodity prices and Europe’s ailing economy, and the to reach an agreement. exports. communique called for accom- The IMF’s member countries With the United States poised modative monetary policy to be agreed in 2010 to give more vot- to hike interest rates, the IMF maintained where needed. ing power to countries like China member nations said it was essen- “Global imbalances are reduced and India, double the Fund’s tial that moves to “policy nor- from previous years, but a fur- resources, and reduce the domi- malisation” were accompanied ther rebalancing of demand is nance of Western Europe on its by effective communication of still needed,” the communique 24-member board. changes to reduce risks of spillo- said. That appeared to echo US But the Obama administration, vers. “The possibility of lower concerns over Germany’s huge which supports the reforms, has growth potential is becoming a current account surplus. been unable to persuade the US more relevant challenge over the While there has been little Congress to pass funding changes medium term,” the IMF’s steering sign at the meetings of a renewed necessary for the agreement. The committee said in a communique flare-up in the “currency wars” United States can block the IMF during the Fund’s spring meet- despite a surge in the value of the reforms because it holds a con- ings in Washington. dollar against the euro and yen, trolling share of votes. Those meetings conclude China’s growing economic clout To get around the United today and have taken place amid has overshadowed the talks. States, the IMF’s board had pro- IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde (left), Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Ali Babacan (centre) and US Federal growing concerns cash-strapped Beijing has touted its own posed one “interim” plan to raise Reserve chair Janet Yellen chat as they pose for the International Monetary and Financial Committee family photo Greece will fail to reach agree- development bank, a rival to the the voting rights of some emerg- at the IMF/WB Spring Meetings in Washington, DC, yesterday. ment with its European Union established Washington-based ing countries under an “ad hoc” and IMF creditors. At the same institutions, and is pushing for increase without touching US reforms without doubling the The “ad hoc” interim plan was dropped from the final ver- time, risks of a stronger dollar the inclusion of its currency in a veto power. That plan was dis- Fund’s resources, which would see made it into a draft communique sion after officials failed to come and low commodity prices have key IMF basket to reflect its eco- cussed, along with another pro- the loss of the US veto, according by the G20 finance ministers and to an agreement. hit emerging markets as China’s nomic might. posal to push through the voting to officials in attendance. central bank governors, but it REUTERS Thousands in Germany protest against Europe-US trade deal

Protesters participate in a demonstration and hold up a cardboard cut-out angel with signs attached to its hands reading ‘Menschenrecht vor Handelsrecht’ (human rights before trade right) against the planned free trade agreement TTIP between the European Union and the US in Berlin yesterday.

BERLIN: Thousands of people marched in organizers Attac estimated it at 15,000. Hundreds Berlin, Munich and other German cities yester- also marched in Leipzig, Stuttgart, Frankfurt and day in protest against a planned free trade deal other European cities on what Attac hailed as a between Europe and the United States that they “global day of action” against free trade, though the fear will erode food, labour and environmental protests appeared to be largest in Germany. standards. “I think this deal will open the door to genetically- Opposition to the Transatlantic Trade and modified foods here,” said Jennifer Ruffatto, 28, who Investment Partnership (TTIP) is particularly high works with handicapped people and was pushing her in Germany, in part due to rising anti-American baby in a stroller. “Companies will gain from this at sentiment linked to revelations of US spying and the expense of people.” fears of digital domination by firms like Google. Helmut Edelhauesser, a 52-year-old from A recent YouGov poll showed that 43 percent of Brandenburg, said he would prefer a free trade deal Germans believe TTIP would be bad for the country, with Russia. “The US push for world domination is compared to 26 percent who see it as positive. unacceptable,” he told Reuters. “Obama sends out The level of resistance has taken Chancellor drones to kill people and wins the Nobel peace prize. Angela Merkel’s government and German indus- This has to stop.” try by surprise, and they are now scrambling to Marchers held up posters reading “People have reverse the tide and save a deal which proponents a right to food not profits” and “Beware the TTIP say could add $100bn in annual economic output trap — companies win, people lose!” on both sides of the Atlantic. In Berlin, a crowd After the excesses of the Gestapo secret police estimated by police at 1,500 formed a human chain under the Nazis and the Stasi in communist East winding from the Potsdamer Platz square, past the Germany, Germans are also particularly sensitive to US embassy and through the Brandenburg Gate to official surveillance. Revelations in 2013 that the US offices of the European Commission. had bugged Merkel’s mobile phone provoked outrage In Munich, police put the crowd at 3,000, while across the country. REUTERS SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 18 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS RCC to boost China trade integration: QNB First Renminbi Clearance Centre in the region will further strengthen Qatar as a global financial centre

DOHA: The Qatar Central denominated in RMB, including central bank to hold international bank and 28 other central banks Bank of China. This RCC will Bank last Tuesday celebrated for Qatari investors. The RCC reserves in dollar. In fact, while around the world for a total of enable claims from the MENA the official opening of the first in Doha therefore represents China’s international reserves RMB3.1tn (about $508bn). These region and beyond to be settled Renminbi Clearance Centre another important step in finan- have nearly doubled since end- agreements allow the RMB to be in Doha, thus making Qatar a key (RCC) in the MENA region, to cial partnership for economic 2008 to $3.8tn at end-2014, the used outside China for settling financial centre for financial flows be located in Doha. The RCC growth between China and Qatar, share held in US Treasury bonds trade and investments denomi- denominated in RMB. will allow for claims denomi- the report said. has fallen by five percentage nated in RMB as well as to create Looking ahead, the RMB inter- nated in Chinese Renminbi China became the largest points to 32.6 percent during the RMB-denominated assets. The nationalisation is likely to be fur- (RMB) to be settled in Doha exporter to the MENA region in same period. Qatar Central Bank signed one of ther boosted in 2015 by the capital and exchanged for other cur- 2014. Its exports to the MENA The RMB internationalisation these bilateral swap agreements account and exchange rate liber- rencies, including the Qatari region grew by a compound has made significant progress last November for RMB35bn. This alisation in China and the poten- Riyal. This represents a fur- annual growth rate of 14.3 percent since it was launched in 2008. agreement enables the growing tial inclusion of the RMB in the ther step in trade and financial over the last five years to an esti- According to SWIFT, the RMB trade between China and Qatar basket for the IMF currency, the integration between China and mated $141.9bn in 2014. Chinese is now the second most used to be denominated in RMB. Special Drawing Rights (SDR). Qatar, two of the fastest grow- exports now represent over 13 currency in the world in trade In addition to the bilateral The Chinese authorities have ing economies in the world. It percent of all goods exported to finance and the fifth in global swap agreements, China has already increased the quotas for will also further strengthen the MENA region. This share is payments. The RMB is also the recently increased the number foreign institutional investors to Qatar’s role as a financial cen- likely to continue growing rapidly ninth most important currency of RCCs in the world in order buy domestic RMB-assets and tre for the MENA region and as China further strengthens its in the global foreign exchange for RMB claims to be settled have cross-linked shares between beyond, QNB said in its weekle role as the world’s main manufac- market as measured by the Bank through selected Chinese clearing the Hong Kong and Shanghai report yesterday. turing hub in the coming years. of financial transactions by ena- for International Settlements. banks. Prior to 2014, RCCs were stock exchanges. Further meas- The benefit for Qatar from In light of its growing role in bling direct exchange of RMB These rankings are likely to rise only available in a few cities in ures to liberalise capital account the launch of the RCC last week the world economy, China has claims with non-dollar curren- with the increasing dominance Asia such as Hong Kong, Macau, transactions are likely to mate- will be threefold. First, it will sought to internationalise the cies. Second, it increases the of the RMB in settlements and Singapore and Taipei. Since then, rialise in the coming months. In further strengthen Qatar as a use of its currency since the glo- demand for RMB-denominated invoicing. new RCCs have been opened in addition, a further widening of global financial centre. Second, bal financial crisis of 2008-09 in assets around the world as finan- This significant increase in the Frankfurt, London, Luxembourg, the exchange rate trading band it will deepen the linkages with order to reduce dependence on cial institutions hold more RMB international use of the RMB has Paris, Toronto and Sydney. The linking the RMB to the dollar is China and the rest of Asia. Third, the US dollar. Internationalising liquidity. Third, as more and more been achieved in part through latest RCC was opened last week likely in 2015, together with a full it will enable the offering of a the RMB has three main advan- trade is denominated in RMB, it bilateral swap agreements in Doha through the Qatar branch convertibility of the Chinese cur- series of new financial products tages. First, it reduces the cost reduces the need for the Chinese between the Chinese central of the Industrial and Commercial rency. THE PENINSULA Draghi: More work ECB examines possibility of Greek IOUs

FRANKFURT: The European there was no need to examine Central Bank has analysed a such a scenario because Athens needed by Greece scenario in which Greece runs was optimistic it would reach a out of money and starts paying deal with its international lenders WASHINGTON: European civil servants with IOUs, creat- by the end of the month. Greece Central Bank chief Mario Draghi ing a virtual second currency has dismissed a recent report sug- (pictured) said that Greece within the euro bloc, people gesting it would need to tap all its needs to do much more, and with knowledge of the exercise remaining cash reserves across urgently so, on an acceptable plan said. Greece is close to hav- the public sector, a total of €2bn, to gain further EU financing. ing to repay the International to pay civil service wages and pen- With the clock ticking on Greek Monetary Fund about €1bn in sions at the end of the month. negotiations with the European May and officials at the ECB are Experts at the ECB have con- Union for the release of another much more belt-tightening and growing concerned. cluded that using IOUs to pay €7.2bn bailout funds, Draghi said reforms Athens needs to under- An IOU (abbreviated from the public sector wages would proba- the framework for bailout financ- take in exchange for EU funding, phrase “I owe you”) is usually an bly fail to avert a full-blown crisis ing going ahead remains lacking. Draghi said what is lacking is a informal document acknowledg- and could even threaten Greece’s He said Athens must come up framework to assess how policy ing debt. future in the 19-country eurozone. with a framework that can be used changes will affect the country’s Although the Greek govern- Those officials believe that up by creditors to assess the impact of fiscal balance and debt sustain- ment has repeatedly said that it to 30 percent of Greeks would any of its domestic policy propos- ability going forward. wants to honour its debts, offi- end up receiving such govern- als. “More work, much more work The framework has to measure cials at the ECB are considering ment IOUs rather than payment is needed now and it’s urgent,” he the policy impact on economic the possibility that it may not, in in euros, which would only put said in Washington on the side growth, fairness, fiscal stability, work undertaken by the so-called further pressure on Greek banks of the spring IMF-World Bank and financial stability, he under- adverse scenarios group. because those workers were likely meetings. “We all want Greece scored. “Any government is free to Any default by Greece would then to plunder their savings. to succeed. The answer is in the choose what they can do,” he said. force the ECB to act and possi- The banks would then be hands of the Greek government.” “We have to have an overall bly restrict Greek banks’ crucial forced to tap increasing amounts Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis speaks with Kairat Kelimbetov, Greek negotiators were meet- framework... we have to have a access to emergency liquidity of emergency liquidity funding Governor of the National Bank of Kazakhstan in Washington yesterday. ing in Paris with representa- methodology in place whereby funding. Officials fear however or boost their capital base. But tives of the European Union, the which we can assess the quanti- that such action could push cash- the banks could not use the IOUs is something that is outside the to take priority before repayment European Central Bank and the tative impact, the fiscal impact of strapped Athens into paying civil as security for drawing down the institutional set-up.” of debt if he was forced to make International Monetary Fund, to these proposals.” servants in IOUs in order to avoid emergency credit because the A default by Greece could a choice. The conclusions of the try to work out a deal ahead of the “At this point in time is to have using up scarce euros. ECB would not accept them. force the ECB to intervene and ECB’s ‘adverse scenario’ group April 24 meeting of the Eurogroup in place a framework that allows a “The fact is we are not seeing “The IOUs, I just don’t think it insist that any security offered in is in line with the message euro- finance ministers in Riga, Latvia. well-informed political discussion any progress... So we have to look can work,” said the first person. return for emergency funding be zone officials have been sending The Greek government needs by the Eurogroup and the Greek at these scenarios,” said one per- “That could effectively be it, they cut in value to reflect the coun- to Athens for some time, namely new financing urgently to pay government.” Asked if Greece son with knowledge of the matter. would be out (of the euro).” try’s default status. Greek offi- that they should not go it alone salaries at the end of the month could default on its huge debt, A spokesman for the ECB said Those fears were voiced by oth- cials insist that there is no plan with radical measures. and then make a series of debt Draghi replied: “I don’t want to it “does not engage in specula- ers familiar with ECB thinking. for default. However in a recent For the ECB, the introduction payments to the International even contemplate such an event... tion about how specific scenarios “With a parallel currency ... letter from Greek Prime Minister of a type of second currency in Monetary Fund and the ECB over The Greek leaders repeatedly regarding Greece could unfold.” you are getting to something so Alexis Tsipras to German chan- Greece would also hamper it in the next three months. While part state that they want to honor all One Greek government official, tailored that you are almost in cellor Angela Merkel, he said setting borrowing costs in the of the talks have focused on how their obligations.” AFP who declined to be named, said Grexit,” said a second person. “It wages and pensions would have eurozone. REUTERS

Samsung Cyprus bailout on track name missing in Japan on after new law passed NICOSIA: Cyprus’s bailout The withheld money is part of a smartphones agenda was back on track after €10bn package of emergency loans parliament adopted a contro- that eurozone member Cyprus was SEOUL: Samsung has removed versial and long-delayed fore- forced to negotiate to avoid bank- its corporate logo from its new closure and insolvency package ruptcy in March 2013. smartphones sold in Japan, a as demanded by the country’s The bill, which cuts the legal company spokeswoman con- international lenders. process for foreclosing on mort- firmed yesterday. A delay in passing the insol- gages from years to months, has The name Samsung is miss- vency framework, seen as a been deeply controversial ever ing on both the Galaxy S6 and its safety net for vulnerable groups since it was demanded by lend- curved-edge variant, the Galaxy against property repossessions, ers under the island’s adjustment S6 Edge. These models are pre- had prompted the opposition to programme. sented as Docomo Galaxy and au suspend a foreclosures law passed Cyprus received its last dis- Galaxy, carrying the names of its last year. But after final amend- bursement of cash — €350m— associated Japanese telecom serv- ments were made, ruling right- through the European Stability ice providers. wing Democratic Rally secured Mechanism in December. Samsung provided no reason votes from centre-right DIKO Fearing people could lose their why it kept the logo off in Japan. and socialists EDEK to ensure the homes, opposition MPs demanded A leading smartphone maker measure passed by a vote of 33-23 protection mechanisms for pri- globally, Samsung has however in the 56-member house. mary residences and third parties been struggling in the Japanese International lenders are now who guaranteed mortgages, and market, where archrival Apple expected back on the island to to ensure more small businesses is dominant, followed by key proceed with the bailout fund- would not go under. Japanese makers such as Sony, ing process. The International The lenders said the foreclos- Sharp and Fujitsu. The firm rolled Monetary Fund recently held back ures legislation was essential if out its new smartphone in South €86m ($93m) in bailout funds for Cyprus is to get to grips with its Korea last week. Cyprus until the legislation was mountain of bad debt. Cyprus Samsung, labouring under the adopted. As a result of the vote, has already carried out drastic burden of successive quarters Cyprus will also now be eligible reforms to its financial sector, of plunging profits and booming to participate in the European winding up its second largest bank sales of Apple’s iPhone 6, is hoping Central Bank’s €1.1 trillion quanti- and imposing a 47.5 percent hair- that new phone will reverse the People look at Samsung’s new smartphone “Galaxy S6 edge” on display at a shop in Tokyo yesterday. tative easing programme following cut on deposits above €100,000 at company’s fortunes. AFP a positive review from the lenders. its biggest. AFP SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 19

‘VW board UK backs yuan inclusion in SDR basket came close British Finance Minister says it’s important to include emerging powers in the world system to demanding WASHINGTON: Britain yuan and the creation of the AIIB countries to announce its inten- then announced it was actively we like to see in all international favours the eventual inclu- are part of China’s efforts to take tion to join the AIIB, about which considering joining. organisations.” sion of the Chinese yuan in the a more dominant role in global the United States and Japan have Sapin said France decided to The yuan, also known as the chief’s exit’ International Monetary Fund’s finance, and advanced economies expressed reservations. A reporter take part “because it’s interest- renminbi, will be considered by the Special Drawing Rights (SDR) have not been in total agreement asked Sapin if he was surprised and ing,” adding that it was imposing IMF later this year for inclusion FRANKFURT: Senior basket of currencies, Finance on how to respond. disappointed by the British deci- conditions on governance, anti- in its SDR basket of currencies. members of Volkswagen’s Minister George Osborne said, “I think our approach to China sion to go it alone, which he said corruption and other issues. “That is something that’s under supervisory board were pre- saying it was important to is one that reflects the very best went contrary to G7 intentions. A British official, speaking on discussion now, and clearly at some pared to demand Chairman include emerging powers in the of British values, which is we want “Surprised? No. Disappointed? condition of anonymity, took issue point it will be sensible, as part of Ferdinand Piech’s resig- world system. to involve and include important Yes, because what we had decided with the idea that Britain had bro- the internationalization of the ren- nation had he not agreed French Finance Minister Michel emerging powers in the world sys- to do was to look at this ques- ken ranks with the G7, saying it minbi, to see the renminbi come to a statement backing Sapin, however, voiced disap- tem, and I don’t think it’s sensi- tion together and to act together had made clear its intentions to into the basket,” Osborne said. Chief Executive Martin pointment with Britain’s surprise ble to shut important economies if possible. That’s what we did at get in on the ground floor of the “The UK has been at the fore- Winterkorn, a German news- decision last month to join the ... out from the institutions of the the level of the euro zone,” he said. new multilateral bank. front of trying to encourage the paper reported yesterday. Beijing-led Asian Infrastructure world,” Osborne told reporters “Britain chose a different route.” Referring to the AIIB, Osborne internationalisation of the ren- Citing sources on board, Investment Bank (AIIB) on its during the spring meetings of the In the end, the other three said Britain was focused on “help- minbi, and London has become the Frankfurter Allgemeine own, instead of taking a joint IMF and World Bank. Britain was European G7 members, France, ing to ensure that ... new institu- the preeminent Western centre for Sonntagszeitung, said Piech, Western approach on the issue. the first member of the Group of Germany and Italy, quickly fol- tions operate on the principles of renminbi issuance,” he said. who sparked a leadership cri- The internationalisation of the Seven (G7) leading industrialised lowed suit, and G7 member Canada transparency and integrity, that REUTERS sis at VW last week by openly criticising Winterkorn, had initially resisted pressure from other board members to back Queen Maxima at financial access meet the CEO during an emergency meeting on Thursday. But they refused Piech’s Russia denies demands for concessions in exchange for his support and were ready to ask for his resig- nation, the report said, before he backed down and agreed to report on gas a statement giving Winterkorn the “full support” of the board and signalling that his con- tract would be extended. deal with Greece Volkswagen declined to comment on the report. The statement by the six- MOSCOW/BERLIN: Russia Tsipras had expressed interest member executive commit- denied yesterday a German in participating in a pipeline tee of the board was seen as media report suggesting that that would bring Russian gas to an unprecedented defeat for it could sign a gas pipeline Europe via Turkey and Greece. Piech, the powerful 78-year- deal with Greece as early as Under the proposed deal, old chairman and patriarch Tuesday which could bring up Greece would receive advance of the family that founded to €5bn into Athens’ depleted funds from Russia based on Volkswagen. state coffers. expected future profits linked Reuters reported on Friday German magazine Der Spiegel, to the pipeline. that Piech had been isolated citing a senior figure in Greece’s The Greek energy minister at the Thursday meeting in ruling Syriza party, said the said last week that Athens would Salzburg, with all five of the advance funds could “turn the repay Moscow after 2019, when other board members strongly page” for Athens, which is now the pipeline is expected to start backing Winterkorn. struggling to reach a deal with operating. Still, the row is seen to have its creditors to unlock new loans Greek government officials damaged the CEO and some to avert bankruptcy. were not immediately avail- experts are now wondering “No, there wasn’t (any agree- able to comment on the Spiegel how the company can operate ment),” said Kremlin spokesman report. effectively with its CEO and Dmitry Peskov, in comments Speaking in Washington on Queen Maxima of the Netherlands laughs as Mastercard CEO Ajay Banga (right) and World Bank chairman at odds. made to Business FM radio and yesterday, German Finance Presidnet Jim Young Kim look on during a meeting for ‘Universal Financial Access 2020’ in Washington. REUTERS quoted by RIA news agency. Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble Peskov reiterated that the said he would be happy if the Greeks had not requested finan- Spiegel report proved correct cial assistance during talks in and Greece received the advance the Kremlin earlier this month funds, but added: “I do not think between Prime Minister Alexis that this would solve the prob- Dutch to launch criminal probe into Uber Tsipras and Russian President lems Greece has in fulfilling the Vladimir Putin. commitments of the memoran- THE HAGUE: Dutch pros- and slapping each with a €1,500 banned UberPOP from taking put customers in touch with pri- “Naturally the question of dum of understanding (with its ecutors announced a criminal ($1,600) fine. “Uber is now a sus- bookings via its smartphone app, vate drivers who then take them energy cooperation was raised. European partners).” probe into Uber, in the latest pect in light of the judge’s ver- threatening the US company with where they want to go, at prices Naturally ... it was agreed that The new government in Greece salvo of an increasingly bitter dict,” the Public Prosecutor’s fines of up to €100,000. lower than those of traditional at the expert level there would has been talking with its euro- battle between European gov- office announced in a statement. Uber said it would contest the taxis. But despite its growing be a working-out of all issues zone partners for months to try ernments and the popular taxi “This means launching a pre- ruling and continued to offer popularity, Uber is facing increas- connected with cooperation in to secure aid and avert a default service app. liminary investigation to gather UberPOP. ing limits on its activities in EU the energy sphere, but Russia which could push the country The move comes after a Dutch detail to determine whether Uber The Dutch government has countries and a barrage of legal did not promise financial help out of the single currency bloc. judge convicted three taxi driv- is guilty of commercial organisa- since handed more than €50,000 challenges spurred on by a furious because no one asked for it,” But progress has been slow and ers belonging to Uber’s low-cost tion of illegal passenger trans- in fines against Uber, Dutch taxi lobby, who say Uber drivers Peskov was quoted as saying. Athens has been exploring other service UberPOP of ferrying port,” the statement added. media reported on Friday. should be regulated the same way During his visit to Moscow, sources of funding. REUTERS passengers without a permit Dutch judges in December Uber uses mobile phone apps to as normal cabs. AFP BMW to recall Lexus seeks design edge over premium rivals 91,800 Mini BEIJING: Big may be beauti- me he wanted to make our cars ful, but Toyota Motor Corp’s cool. That meant he thought global design chief is betting our cars weren’t sexy,” Fukuichi Coopers over that edgy is the way to go for added, explaining his introduction the Japanese automaker’s pre- back then of the head-turning mium Lexus brand, specifically grille. In an interview ahead of air bag flaw its signature ‘spindle grille’ next week’s Shanghai autoshow, design. Fukuichi said Lexus was still not NEW YORK: BMW of North Tokuo Fukuichi, who is also at “a gold medal winning level America LLC will recall about Lexus’ global chief, says the on the global stage,” versus lead- 91,800 Mini Coopers in the US design shock-therapy gives the ing German brands and the likes to fix a flaw with the passenger brand — and conservative Toyota of Jaguar, Maserati and Aston seat mat that may prevent the more broadly — the stand-out Martin. air bag from deploying, accord- face it previously lacked. Fukuichi is no stranger to ing to the National Highway While some industry rivals and controversy. In the late-1980s, Traffic Safety Administration. design experts say the jagged- he caused a storm with Toyota’s The recall, posted on NHTSA’s edged, trapezoid grille is down- first-generation Previa multi- website yesterday, affects about right ugly, 63-year-old Fukuichi purpose vehicle, which was 59,270 Mini Cooper and Cooper stands by the drastic makeo- dubbed the ‘egg van’ because of S models manufactured from ver, saying it will give Lexus its quirky rounded styling. “Even January 2005 to November a “unique” edge over German polarising designs, you get used to 2006, and about 32,530 Mini rivals BMW, Audi and Mercedes- them after a while,” he says. Cooper convertibles and Cooper Benz particularly in competitive The designer’s credo is to take S convertibles produced between emerging markets such as China, a risk to stand out from the January 2005 and July 2008. where buyers will pay more for competition — like a movie star The issue, according to the a car that stands out from the playing on what others consider safety recall report, involves an crowd. a flaw in his looks in an indus- occupant detection mat sensor Fukuichi, who was brought try where the generic drop-dead on the front passenger side of the back to Toyota from a subsidiary fashion model doesn’t linger long vehicles that might not function in 2011 and as he was recovering in the memory. Tokuo Fukuichi, executive vice president of Lexus, poses next to a Lexus LF-NX mid-size crossover concept. properly. from cancer, says Toyota for too For Lexus, that flawed look is In the event of a severe crash, long designed cars by committee the spindle grille, which made the report says, the front passen- — often of several dozen people. its quiet, tentative debut in the an ugly deep-sea creature. mouth of the Predator, an alien showrooms — appears positive. ger air bag may not activate even “The upshot was styling conserv- Lexus CT in 2010 and was later Others outside joined in the sci-fi movie character. Lexus’ global sales have grown when the seat is occupied. atism which everybody tolerated, incorporated into the redesigned criticism. A former Rolls Royce But the radical look had its 42 percent since 2010 to 583,000 The part is manufactured but nobody was passionately in Lexus GS. It upset more than a designer said the pinched-in- fans, too. A senior Nissan Motor vehicles last year. by Johnson Controls GmbH of love with. We tried to please 10 few. At a mid-2012 shareholders’ the-middle spindle grille was a Co designer said the company’s Fukuichi remains philosophical Burscheid, Germany, a unit of out of 10 people. Now we’re try- meeting, one angry Toyota share- “design no-no” as it created an Infiniti premium brand quietly about his bold design. Johnson Controls Inc. ing to please one of 10 people out holder complained the new Lexus “uncomfortable” tension in the dropped plans to adopt a simi- “I had nothing to lose except BMW of North America is there with Lexus.” “face” was giving the brand a bad lines and shape of the car. A US lar spindle grille profile because my life. I was ready to quit any a unit of Bayerische Motoren “When CEO Akio Toyoda reputation. Even some Lexus design professor said the con- Lexus beat them to it. And the time and retire if it didn’t work,” Werke AG. BLOOMBERG asked me to come back, he told insiders likened the new look to troversial grille looked like the opinion that really counts — at he said. REUTERS SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 20 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Ford to invest $2.5bn in Mexican plants New engine, transmission factories to create 3,800 jobs

MEXICO CITY: The Ford to produce the Corolla sedan. The for investors. Mexico overtook Motor Company unveiled a back-to-back announcements Brazil last year to become the top $2.5bn investment for engine “prove to the world that Mexico auto producer in Latin Americans and transmission plants in has conditions for competitive- and the seventh biggest in the Mexico, the second major ness, conditions to be more pro- world. It is the sixth producer of project announced in the coun- ductive and conditions to attract auto parts in the world. try by a foreign auto power last more investments,” Pena Nieto Mexico produced more than 3.3 week. said. “This makes the world turn million vehicles last year, some The US firm’s plan to expand to look at Mexico,” he said. 500,000 fewer than number six an engine plant in the northern Mexicans officials said the new power India. It also surpassed border state of Chihuahua and investments will boost the coun- Japan as the top exporter of vehi- build a transmissions factory in try’s goal of becoming a top five cles to the United States in 2014, the central state of Guanajuato auto producer in the world by 2020, and analysts say it is closing in on will create 3,800 jobs, the com- producing 5 million vehicles per first-placed Canada. Ford Motor Company President for the Americas, Joseph Hinrichs (left) listens to Mexican President Enrique Pena pany said. year. The auto industry’s growing Economy Minister Ildefonso Nieto during a conference at Los Pinos presidential palace in Mexico City on Friday. The investment was announced success brought the government Guajardo said that, since Pena by Ford’s president for the much-needed good news as falling Nieto took office in December Americas region, Joseph Hinrichs, oil prices have led to budget cuts 2012, the government has exports to the United States, plant will be built on the premises Eduardo Solis, president of and President Enrique Pena Nieto and a reduction of economic fore- announced $22.6bn in auto sector Canada, South America and the of Ford supplier Getrag in the city the Mexican Auto Industry at the Mexican leader’s official casts for 2015, from 3.0-4.0 percent investments. “It has been a per- Asia-Pacific region. of Irapuato, Guanajuato. Association, said it was too soon residence in Mexico City. growth to 2.5-3.5 percent. fect week for the Mexican auto- The company will also spend Ford said its first transmission to know whether Mexico’s pro- Just two days earlier, Pena Nieto The country’s proximity to the mobile industry,” Guajardo said. $200m to expand the Chihuahua facility in Mexico will produce duction will surpass other coun- had invited Toyota executives to world’s biggest market, the United Ford said the new $1.1bn plant’s production of I-4 and die- “two all-new automatic transmis- tries soon but that it the sector his residence for the Japanese States, its relatively cheap and gasoline-powered engine facility sel engines, he said, turning the sions for key products primarily will keep growing. “More invest- auto giant’s announcement that skilled labour, and its free trade will be built within Ford’s plant facility into the biggest engine in South America, Europe and ments are coming,” Solis said. it was ending a new plant freeze agreements with several nations in the northern border state plant in Mexico. Asia Pacific as well as other North “We expect more announcements with a $1bn factory in Guanajuato make it an attractive destination of Chihuahua to boost engine The new $1.2bn transmission American markets.” in the future.” AFP

Congo’s proposed tax hike will stifle new investments Petrobras set to release KINSHASA: Any increase main driver of GDP growth. and other existing mines in the Bank list that measures the ease of in the country, which is one of by the Democratic Republic of “All those (proposals) really country, were protected by a doing business in countries. Africa’s largest producers of the delayed result Congo in the taxes it levies on hurt, to a point where a standard 10-year stability clause, which Mining companies say that metal. Neither company could be mining will stifle new invest- gold mine doesn’t make a return means they would not have to pay Congo’s regulatory environment immediately reached for comment. ment in the mineral-rich African for the investors so no one will the new taxes for 10 years after must be particularly attractive to Bristow was confident that the on Wednesday country, gold miner Randgold invest,” CEO Mark Bristow said by such proposals were passed into draw investors, given the country’s Congolese government would roll Resources Ltd’s chief executive phone, while on his way to Congo law. It is only new mining ven- poor infrastructure and politi- back its proposals, much like Mali SAO PAULO: Brazilian said. to lobby the government to roll tures that would be hit by these cal instability. The Kibali mine and Cote d’Ivoire have. state oil giant Petrobras, Congo’s draft mining code — back the proposal. Randgold oper- new rules. is among the biggest in Congo. A host of African nations includ- embroiled in an alleged which proposes to raise corporate ates the $2.5bn Kibali gold mine Congo holds the world’s largest Randgold and AngloGold Ashanti ing Zambia, Ghana, Mali, and Cote multi-billion-dollar kick- taxes to 35 percent from 30 per- in the central African country. cobalt reserves and a significant Ltd own 45 percent each in Kibali, d’Ivoire have in the past few years back scandal, will release cent and introduce a new 50 per- Bristow said Kibali would never amount of diamonds, gold and cop- with state miner Sokimo holding attempted to boost revenues from long-delayed 2014 earnings cent windfall tax — is an effort by have been developed under the per. But it is among the most diffi- the rest. Mining giants Freeport- the mining sector by imposing results on Wednesday, the the government to boost revenue current proposal. cult places in the world to invest in, McMoRan Inc and Glencore Plc higher taxes, only to later roll back company said. from an industry that has been the Bristow said the Kibali mine, ranking 184 out of 187 in a World also have large copper investments such proposals. REUTERS Petrobras has repeatedly delayed the release of its 2014 third-quarter and full- year results, making inves- tors increasingly wary. “The audited results will be made public on April 22,” Petrobras Investors look to said in a statement on Thursday night. Petrobras shares have climbed 50 percent during the last 30 days, as rumours cir- US earnings for culated that the results would soon be released. The third-quarter earn- ings, originally due last market direction November, were postponed several times after the com- NEW YORK: Investors ministers meet April 24 to try pany’s external auditors attempting to determine to reach a deal for Greek debt PricewaterhouseCoopers whether US equities will repayments. refused to sign off on them. rebound from Friday’s selloff or Next week is among the busi- Although the oil giant continue to sink will look to a est of the earnings season, with announced unaudited third- deluge of earnings next week for results expected from compa- quarter results in late January, a clearer picture of the economy. nies including Amazon.com Inc, it said it considered it “impos- The S&P dropped 1.1 percent General Motors, Boeing and sible” to calculate “correctly, on Friday, its biggest decline since Morgan Stanley. The results could completely and definitively” March 25. Equities lost ground help investors gauge the impact the damages resulting from after industrials Honeywell of the rise in the greenback and the corruption scandal. International and General assess the strength of the econ- Petrobras shares plummeted Electric took hits from the strong omy after a string of lackluster on the incomplete results and dollar, while concerns over new economic reports. its president, Graca Foster, Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange on Friday in New York City. The Dow Jones Industrial trading regulations in China and “Most companies have been able and senior leadership resigned Average plunged nearly 280 points, following overseas markets. Greece’s place in the eurozone to beat on the bottom line and miss a week later. dented sentiment. on the top line, and that has been Petrobras has been beset Since hitting a high of 2,119.59 the story now for quite a while,” to date, 74.6 percent have topped Art Hogan, chief market strate- Both companies’ share prices for months by the probe into on February 25, the S&P has held said Rick Meckler, president of profit expectations, above the 70 gist at Wunderlich Securities in typically move about 1 percent alleged kickbacks to politi- in a range of about 80 points. LibertyView Capital Management percent beat rate for the past four New York. in reaction to earnings; this sea- cians, mainly allies of the gov- Investors have grown concerned in Jersey City, New Jersey, refer- quarters and 63 percent rate since Although earnings season is son, options activity is suggesting ernment of President Dilma about the impact of a strong dol- ring to companies’ ability to beat 1994. typically choppy for stocks, trad- a move of about 2.3 percent for Rousseff (pictured), a former lar on quarterly results, even as profit estimates while falling short Early returns on revenue have ers in the options market do not United Technologies and 2.7 per- Petrobras chair. Under the they remain leery of missing out of sales expectations. been disappointing, however, as seem to be raising many red flags cent for DuPont. alleged corruption scheme, on any rally. “Their ability to make numbers 45.8 of companies have topped about volatility for companies set Shares of typically-volatile companies won contracts that “Our markets will get kind of keeps their stocks from really sell- estimates, well short of the 58 to report results. Internet giants, Facebook Inc and were inflated to include illicit quiet again as we wait for some ing off, but their inability to show percent rate for the past four There are a few exceptions. Google Inc, could move 6.5 per- surcharges. of those earnings and what is top line growth keeps their stocks quarters and 61 percent rate since DuPont, facing activist pressure cent and 4.3 percent, respectively, The cash was then alleg- going to happen on the 24th with from really taking off.” 2002. “Next week you get every- to add board seats and split the based on their options activ- edly passed on to intermedi- Greece,” said Keith Bliss, senior According to Thomson Reuters body, you get a much better pic- company, is expected to show ity. Those are below the average ary companies that drew up vice-president at Cuttone & Co data, of the 59 companies in the ture of what corporate America more volatility than usual. So is moves seen in these shares after bogus contracts that let the in New York. Euro zone finance S&P 500 that have posted earnings looks like in the first quarter,” said United Technologies Corp. earnings. REUTERS money be laundered through the firms. Police say the graft ring moved around $4bn over the past decade. AFP Brent, US oil register biggest weekly gains in years

NEW YORK: Crude futures fell February 25 2011. Brent June crude $57.42 on Thursday. Yemen’s esca- 2. That followed reports of US pro- shift away from rising stock levels from 2015 peaks in choppy trad- fell 53 cents to settle at $63.45 a lating conflict sparked Thursday’s duction beginning to pull back as ... and toward production leveling ing on Friday, but Brent’s 9.6 per- barrel, having swung from $62.95 rally and on Friday military units the price retreat since June weighs where significant uncertainties lie cent weekly gain was its biggest to $64.50 after hitting $64.95, its protecting the Masila oilfields on producers. ahead,” Jim Ritterbusch, president in more than five years as Middle 2015 high, on Thursday. withdrew. While Yemen is not a Oil initially pared losses after of Ritterbusch & Associates, said East turmoil and signs of lower Brent’s second straight weekly major oil producer, the conflict Baker Hughes data showed US oil in a note. US production lifted prices. gain, the fourth in five weeks, was raises concern about risks to sup- drilling rigs fell for a record 19th Prices also drew support from US crude also retreated from its biggest since a 9.9 percent rally ply from the region’s major export- straight week, although this week’s traders closing out short positions, its 2015 high, but registered a fifth in the week to October 16, 2009. ers, especially Saudi Arabia. 26-rig drop was lower than the loss encouraged by strong technical straight weekly gain, which at 7.9 US May crude, expiring on Oil rallied on Wednesday on of 42 last week. “Futures markets factors, said Rob Montefusco, sen- percent was the biggest since it Tuesday, fell 97 cents to settle at data showing the smallest weekly are always forward-looking and as a ior oil trader at Sucden Financial. jumped 13.5 percent in the week to $55.74. It reached a 2015 peak of US inventory build since January result, the market has seen a focus REUTERS SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 21 Google’s EU showdown offers new openings Competitors to gain but investors must brace for years of regulatory battles

FRANKFURT: Start small, politically charged debates over stretching from 1998 to 2010. That on Google’s low-cost ads to fund win quick, then move on to big- Google’s tax avoidance moved and created openings for Internet lead- their own services. ger issues. That appears to be privacy safeguards. “The concern ers Google, Facebook, Apple and Instead, Google’s bigger oppo- the European Union’s strategy is how broad does this inves- Amazon.com to emerge. nents including German publisher to pursue Google in a competi- tigation go?” asked Macquarie It’s too early to say whether Axel Springer and other European tion dispute by choosing to push a Securities analyst Ben Schachter, Google faces the same fate as the media and telecom firms with narrow set of charges around its who tracks Google. world moves beyond computers into more to gain from having it on shopping service, while opening Google readily acknowledges the mobile Internet era. Working the defensive. another investigation of Google’s it is the most used search engine in Google’s favour is its control The likeliest beneficiaries do Android mobile phone software. in Europe, but argues that people over Android, the software used to not come from Europe at all. They Whether or not the EU suc- find information on the Internet power more than 80 percent of all are well-known, high-tech names ceeds in branding Google a mar- via many avenues, including social smartphones. That positions it well that increasingly compete with ket-abusing monopolist in web media, mobile phone apps, shop- for the current shift, but puts it on Google in what is largely a sin- search — a big if, given that the ping sites and by going directly uncertain ground as the EU starts gle, global digital market. These competition authority has yet to to popular sites. “Allegations of to probe Android as well. include Apple and Samsung in publish its exact charges — the harm, for consumers and com- EU Competition Commissioner phones, Amazon.com in shopping, Internet giant could be pinned petitors, have proved to be wide of Margrethe Vestager has said she Facebook and Twitter in social down for years to come in regula- the mark,” Google said in a state- wants a change in the “principle” media, and, in software, Microsoft tory procedures and legal appeals. ment responding to the European underlying searches rather than and Oracle, two active backers of A drawn-out process is likely Commission. “We respectfully but a redesign of current Web pages the EU case against Google. to embolden existing and would- strongly disagree.” or tweaks to algorithms by which Amazon, Facebook, and Apple be interlopers to step up assaults So far, nothing the EU proposed Google ranks results. share many similar business prac- on Google’s wide range of busi- in its preliminary statement of During the five-year inquiry tices to Google in terms of favour- nesses, if the history of Microsoft’s objections suggests it is ready to leading to the accusations, Google ing their own products over those antitrust battles with US and force Google to change its business agreed three times to settlement of competitors, analyst Sebastian EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager. European regulators is any guide. model, any hint of which would terms, only to be rebuffed by EU said. Each, in its way, is gaining In accusing Google of anti- spook investors and be a threat authorities who saw its proposed ground on Google in realms they using members’ personal details, Google is now gearing up to competitive practices against to its ability to innovate and com- changes as too narrow or cosmetic. control. But because none of these which gives it a distinct advantage allow websites to target ads to rival shopping sites, the EU com- pete, analysts say. This week’s crackdown on Google rivals have the decisive monopoly over other online and offline media their existing users, using cus- petition authority said it is con- “We see little long-term risk drew a chorus of cheers from a market power that Google has companies, including Google. From tomer email addresses, taking tinuing to investigate other areas, to the business model from reg- handful of start-up shopping sites over web search, they don’t, at nowhere a decade ago, Facebook direct aim at a similar Facebook including alleged “web scraping” ulators,” Baird Equity Research that had filed complaints alleging least so far, face the same scrutiny now ranks second behind Google in audience targetting advertising to copy content off of rival travel analyst Colin Sebastian wrote in Google excluded them from its from regulators, he says. terms of advertising customers, the product, analysts say. and local business review sites, a note to investors. More likely, search. They see the EU’s action Amazon’s site search uses its revenue lifeblood of both compa- Google may have held off from and Google’s restrictive practices the EU will impose fines or set giving them a second chance, both own “buy box” to favour either nies. Google has 4 million custom- launching this product to avoid on advertising. A quick EU finding competitive restrictions on how in terms of business opportuni- its own inventory or that of other ers while Facebook has 2 million provoking regulators, which has that Google has abused its mar- Google features its own properties ties and the ability to attract fresh key partners. Apple’s mobile apps customers, according to Macquarie now happened despite efforts ket power by favouring its own versus those of rivals, he said. venture funding. (iTunes, Maps, AppStore) are analyst Schachter’s estimates. to appease the EU, said Pivotal shopping services at the expense By contrast, Microsoft was But Google’s woes are not likely installed as default software on its Facebook has also begun beef- Research analyst Brian Wieser. of non-Google websites, could set accused of tying its web browser to help Europe’s burgeoning start- closely controlled phones and tab- ing up its search capabilities, pos- “Google knows that anything a precedent for new charges over to its Windows software monopoly up scene, in part because Google lets, akin to how Android phones ing a big challenge to Google by that they want to do is going to how it handles hotels, flights and in a bid to dominate the emerging is an active funder and serial default to Google’s search, maps keeping users inside its network met with regulatory scrutiny, so other services, experts say. Web era and faced calls to be split acquirer of young companies here, and app store. instead of going to the open web, why hold back?” Wieser said. This, in turn, could renew in two in the course of legal battles but also because most firms count Facebook targets advertising where Google is king. REUTERS New Google security chief looks for balance with privacy

MOUNTAIN VIEW, UNITED Eschelbeck said. “What really “absolutely” find any hacker that STATES: Google has a new excited me was doing security at came after his network. “As a sheriff keeping watch over the large scale.” security guy, I am never comfort- wilds of the Internet. Austrian- Google’s range of global serv- able,” he said. “But, I do have a very born Gerhard Eschelbeck (pic- ices and products means there are strong team...I have confidence we tured) has ranged the British many fronts for a security expert have the right reactive and proac- city of Oxford; cavorted at noto- to defend. Google’s size also means tive defence mechanisms as well.” rious Def Con hacker conclaves, there are arsenals of powerful State-sponsored cyber attacks wrangled a herd of startups, and computer servers for defenders to making news in the past year come camped out in Silicon Valley. employ and large-scale data from on top of well-known trends of He now holds the reins of secu- which to discern cyber dangers. hacking expressly for fun or profit. rity and privacy for all-things Eschelbeck’s career in security The sheer numbers of attack “vec- Google. In an exclusive inter- stretches back two decades to a tors” has rocketed exponentially view, Eschelbeck spoke of using startup he built while a univer- over time, with weapons targeting Google’s massive scope to protect sity student in Austria that was smartphones, applications, data- users from cyber villains such as acquired by security company centers, operating systems and spammers and state-sponsored McAfee. What started out as a more. “You can safely assume that spies. “The size of our computing six-month work stint in California every property on the Internet He believes that within five giving up their passwords or other security and privacy, there is more infrastructure allows us to process, where McAfee is based turned into is continuously under attack,” years, accessing accounts with valuable personal information, overlap than there are differences,” analyse, and research the chang- a 15-year stay by Eschelbeck. Eschelbeck said. “I feel really no more than passwords will be a Eschelbeck said. “We have some he said. “We have made a tremen- ing threat landscape and look He created and advised an strong about our ability to iden- thing of the past. Google lets peo- really great visibility into the Web, dous effort to focus and double- ahead to predict what is coming,” array of computer security star- tify them before they become a ple require code numbers sent to as you can imagine,” he said. down on privacy issues.” Eschelbeck said during his first tups before heading off to Oxford. threat and the ability to block and phones be used along with pass- “The time for us to recognise a As have other large Internet one-on-one press interview in his Eschelbeck, has worked at com- prevent them from entering our words to access accounts in what bad site is incredibly short.” companies, Google has routinely new post. “Security is obviously a puter technology titans such as environment.” is referred to as “two-factor” Eschelbeck saw the world of made public requests by govern- constant race; the key is how far Sophos and Qualys, and holds pat- Eschelbeck is a backer of authentication. online security as fairly black ment agencies for information can you look ahead.” ents for network security technol- encrypting data, whether it be an The Internet titan also provides and white, while the privacy about users. Requests are carefully Eschelbeck took charge of ogies. He was confident his team email to a friend or photos stored “safe browsing” technology that side of his job required subjective reviewed, and only about 65 per- Google’s 500-strong security and was up to the challenge of fend- in the cloud. “I hope for a time warns people when they are head- interpretations. cent of them satisfied, according privacy team early this year, ing off cyber attacks, even from when all the traffic on the Internet ing to websites rigged to attack Google works closely with data to Google. returning to Silicon Valley after onslaughts of sophisticated opera- is encrypted,” he said. “You’re not visitors. protection authorities in Europe “Privacy, to me, is protecting running engineering for a com- tions run by the likes of the US sending a letter to your friend in Google identifies about 50,000 and elsewhere to try and harmo- and securing my activities; that puter security company in Oxford National Security Agency or the a transparent envelop, and that is malicious websites monthly, and nise privacy protections with the they are personal to myself and not for two years. “It was a very natu- Chinese military. why encryption in transport is so another 90,000 phishing web- standards in various countries. visible to the whole wide world,” ral move for me to join Google,” Eschelbeck vowed that he would critical.” sites designed to trick people into “I really believe that with Eschelbeck said. AFP

Sprint cell GE earnings up 9pc unit launches Eurozone inflation outlook, Cuba service growth brighter: ECB study MIAMI: Boost Mobile, part of Sprint Corp, launched a pre- FRANKFURT: The economic the downward revision for 2015 paid plan for US consumers skies above Europe are bright- mainly reflected lower oil prices, calling and texting Cuba, tak- ening, with both growth and whereas monetary policy measures ing advantage of new, relaxed inflation seen moving higher, not and exchange rate developments US commercial regulations least as a result of the European have resulted in upward revi- with the communist-run Central Bank’s policy measures, sions for 2016 and 2017,” the ECB island nation. an ECB survey showed. explained. The Obama administration’s Nevertheless, inflation, already Already on Wednesday, ECB new Cuban policy regulations chronically low, will be dragged chief Mario Draghi had said that approved by the Treasury and down even further this year by fall- the central bank’s raft of different Commerce Departments have ing oil prices, but should rebound policy measures, including a much- opened the door for US-based next year, according to the ECB’s contested scheme to buy €1.1 tril- telecommunications firms to regular quarterly survey of profes- lion ($1.2 trillion) worth of public start potentially lucrative serv- sional forecasters. sector and government bonds, were ices to Cuba. The SPF survey predicted that helping to fuel economic recovery. Last month US-based eurozone inflation would stand Turning to the growth outlook IDT Corp reached an agree- at just 0.1 percent in 2015, but for the 19 countries that share the ment with Cuba’s Empresa de rebound to 1.2 percent in 2016 and euro, the survey saw an upward Telecomunicaciones de Cuba SA 1.6 in 2017, moving towards the revision in experts’ growth fore- to provide direct international ECB’s target of around 2.0 percent. casts. “Real GDP (gross domes- long distance service. Boost The 2015 figure represents a tic product) growth expectations Mobile offers cheap, prepaid downward revision from the previ- were revised up for the short and wireless service to consumers A customer shops near General Electric appliances in Schaumburg, Illinois. General Electric Co’s quarterly indus- ous survey in the first quarter, but medium-term horizons, standing with no need for long-term sub- trial earnings rose 9 percent, helped by cost cuts that expanded profit margins, as the US conglomerate banks an upward revision for the infla- at 1.4 percent for 2015, 1.7 percent scription contracts. REUTERS on manufacturing of jet engines, turbines and other big-ticket products as it unloads most of its finance business. tion forecasts for both 2016 and for 2016 and 1.8 percent for 2017,” 2017. “Respondents reported that the ECB said. AFP SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 22 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS VIEWS

Emerging market shares London stakes its claim lagging for fifth year BY SUJATA RAO as global bitcoin hub he roaring stock market rallies of the United States, Japan and Europe show no sign of reaching most emerging mar- kets, where lackluster economic growth and company prof- Tits point to a fifth straight year of lagging performance. BY JEMIMA KELLY amateurs, others who have rate of around $220 each. innovation, we’re going to have to Emerging markets are the black hole in the global equity picture come to Britain to start bitcoin Bitcoin brought 29-year-old have some kind of regulation in at a time when Wall Street has hit record highs, European stocks ondon, centre of the businesses. Cary to Britain two years ago from terms of money laundering, but are at seven-year peaks and Japanese markets at the highest in $5-trillion-a-day global Already the capital of tradi- Denver, Colorado. He joined forces let’s do this in a constructive way, 15 years, buoyed by central bank money-printing and recovering currency market, now tional currency trading, London with Ben Reeves, then a 22-year- in partnership with the technolo- economies. wants to be home to a is competing with San Francisco’s old computer science graduate, gists and the industry.” MSCI’s emerging equity index, in contrast, stands more than controversial upstart — web expertise and New York’s to develop the Blockchain wallet, Detractors worry that digital 20 percent below record highs hit in 2007 and despite notable Lbitcoin. British authorities have financial clout as it pushes to be spending the first year working currencies make it easy for users exceptions such as India and China, it has lagged the world index come out in support of digital cur- the foremost financial technology out of a two-bedroom apartment to buy products anonymously by more than 50 percent since end-2010. rencies in the name of promoting — or fintech —centre in the world. in northern England. from websites like Silk Road, Dedicated emerging equity and exchange-traded funds have seen financial innovation, while pro- Last month the British govern- Now Blockchain, named after an underground marketplace outflows of $60bn in the past two years, according to EPFR Global posing that regulations should be ment announced plans to regulate the technology behind bitcoin, is for drugs and other illegal goods data cited by JPMorgan Asset Management. And now, with the drawn up to prevent their use in digital currency exchanges to pre- the world’s biggest wallet pro- which was shut down in 2013. United States to start raising interest rates and emerging curren- crime. vent their use in money-launder- vider, with over 3 million users. But advocates argue that using cies wilting against the resurgent dollar, US-based investors have But it is technophiles who are ing, and to help to develop a set Last year it raised over $30m in cash for illicit trades is easier and even less incentive to place cash in the sector. “The call we are leading the drive to make London of standards for cryptocurrencies. its first round of funding, includ- less traceable, pointing out that making is developed markets versus emerging equities, and despite a real-world hub for trade in Backers of bitcoin praised this ing from billionaire Richard most US banknotes are contami- strong outperformance in DM since the end of 2010, we don’t see web-based “cryptocurrencies”, of for lending legitimacy to the cur- Branson. nated with cocaine. any reason to reverse our position,” said Jonathan Lowe, portfolio which bitcoin is the original and rency — which unlike traditional While some people argue that Asked about bitcoin, the gov- manager in JPMorgan Asset Management’s multi-asset group. “In still most popular. money has no printed form and London lags New York over- erning body for the City of London fact, the amount of stimulus we are seeing in places like Japan and Every Tuesday evening in a remains outside the control of all as the centre for traditional financial district said authorities euro zone is wanting us to be more underweight EM,” Lowe added. trendy cafe in London’s Shoreditch central banks — without stifling finance, many say the latter’s needed to be “alive to the poten- More than half of the global investors surveyed by Bank of neighbourhood, a group of digital innovation. “London has been the attitude to digital currencies — tial risks and take strong action America/Merrill Lynch in March said emerging markets was the currency enthusiasts gathers to home of financial innovation for including a state plan to impose a if they find evidence of abuse asset class they would underweight in the coming year. discuss ideas, “vape” from e-ciga- hundreds of years,” said Nicolas “BitLicense” on bitcoin start-ups or criminal activities”. But the Several things have gone wrong, the first being that emerging rettes and exchange their pounds Cary, co-founder of Blockchain, — makes London more attractive employment and growth oppor- markets are on track for a sixth straight year of slowing economic for bitcoins in a dedicated “ATM”. which provides bitcoin data and for the growing number of busi- tunities offered by the fintech in growth, shrinking the traditional growth premium they enjoy over With more than 2,200 mem- “wallet” software for storing the nesses dealing in the budding general were to be welcomed, it advanced peers. That premium will be less than 2 percentage points bers, CoinScrum, run by a former currency. “It would be a histori- technology. said. Britain made bitcoin trading this year, the International Monetary Fund predicted this week, derivatives trader who left the cal mistake not to make this the “What we see in the UK ... is exempt from value-added tax last compared with 4.5 percent as recently as 2013. And with Chinese world of traditional finance to home of digital currencies. There’s a different attitude,” said Jerry year. Other countries have yet to growth at a six-year low, short-term improvement seems unlikely. work on a digital currency start- an incredible amount of talent Brito, executive director of Coin decide how to tax bitcoin, since Consumption and fixed capital formation in emerging markets up, is the biggest bitcoin net- and experience here.” Center, a Washington DC-based its independence from any cen- both slowed in the last quarter of 2014, while export growth has working group in the world. Its Just over 14 million bitcoins non-profit advocacy group for dig- tral bank means it does not fall declined for three years straight, UBS analysts said. meetings draw a mostly young, are in circulation, worth around ital currencies. “It’s a very positive into the traditional definition of This in turn has caused disappointment on the earnings front — mostly male crowd — some $3.1bn at the current exchange attitude, one of: this is an amazing money. REUTERS even in India where stocks are up a third since end-2013, 40 percent of companies undershot earnings forecasts in the latest quarter, Morgan Stanley noted. “If we get 3.5 percent global growth this year that’s going to be on the high side. You need 4 percent global growth to get a pronounced pick-up in EM profitability,” Lowe said. Earnings-per-share (EPS), a key profitability marker, will have grown at a compounded annual rate of 3.8 percent between 2013- 2016, Morgan Stanley calculates, contrasting this with 15 percent in Japan. EPS will grow by 1.6 percent in 2015, the bank predicts. For Japan it expects 16 percent. Emerging markets rely on big state-run banks, mining and oil companies, which have been unable or unwilling to cut costs or employees in the manner of Western rivals. Because companies did not cut costs when growth and export markets soured, return on equity (ROE), a gauge of how efficiently a company uses share- holders’ equity investment to generate profits, started declining in emerging markets after 2008 and has yet to recover. Emerging markets companies earn 12.6 cents for each dollar of shareholder money invested — three cents below US rivals. “In the United States the first two years of the bull market hap- pened not because the economy was recovering but because com- panies were efficient in cutting costs, and that in EM has not happened yet,” said Jorge Mariscal, chief investment officer for emerging markets at UBS Wealth Management in New York. “Once world growth starts recovering faster, then it is difficult for me to envision that EM will continue to lag behind...but we are 6-12 months away at least from that.” One of the few things favoring the sector is that stocks in MSCI’s emerging index are cheap relative to history, trading at an average 11.6 times predicted earnings while developed equities are at nearly 17 times. Fund managers with freedom to invest off-index can also find opportunities. Emerging indexes skew towards big countries such as Brazil, often masking outperformance in tiny markets such as Hungary which has rallied 15 percent this year in dollar terms. Mariscal, for instance, has less allocation to emerging markets than their weight in global indexes but is tactically overweight in Taiwan, India and Philippines, noting improving growth and com- pany earnings among other factors. That bifurcation may deepen as US interest rates rise. In markets such as Taiwan and South Korea, a broadening US recovery may boost earnings, UBS analysts note. But in others like Turkey, Brazil and South Africa, recovery may be further off because their cost of equity is tied to the United States but earn- ings rely on European and Chinese growth. REUTERS Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate Some banks lose in Dubai’s ‘Islamic economy’

BY BERNARDO VIZCAINO conventional banks had moved growth of Islamic trade financing. Lead managers from the UAE operations of Barclays in a $177m growth rate at around 20 percent and TOM ARNOLD strongly into Islamic banking But Dubai’s drive does appear include three full-fledged Islamic deal. Other Islamic lenders are not per annum,” Cook said. through sharia-compliant “win- to be having an impact in at least banks — Al Hilal Bank, Dubai faring so well, however. Al Hilal NBF hopes its Islamic banking ubai’s drive to develop dows” — departments which offer two areas. An aggressive publicity Islamic Bank and Sharjah Islamic posted just 2.1 percent growth segments can grow to represent its Islamic finance sec- Islamic services while segregat- campaign seems to have pushed Bank — plus Emirates NBD, a top in total income in the first half as much as a quarter of its overall tor is fuelling growth of ing their funds from the bank’s more consumers and companies to conventional bank. of 2014, with a 15.5 percent drop business. Such growth would be Dsharia-compliant bank- conventional operations. “Lately, favour Islamic banking products, Such deals create more capi- in the second quarter, its latest supported by previously unmet ing but the benefits are unevenly conventional banks have become or to at least become more open tal markets business for Islamic financials show. The lender did not demand, Cook said; “we expect distributed, with some lenders much more aggressive in the to them. banks and increase the supply of respond to a request for comment. this trend to continue as efforts struggling to compete against Islamic banking space, which Assets in the UAE’s Islamic sukuk which they can use to man- One risk in Dubai’s drive is that to grow the Islamic economy burgeoning competition. makes our business equally sen- banking sector expanded 11.4 per- age their liquidity, potentially aid- it whips up so much enthusiasm intensify.” In 2013, Dubai’s government sitive to competitive pressures,” cent last year to $127bn in 2014, ing their bottom lines. for Islamic banking, causing so Growth in size does not nec- announced plans to turn the emir- he said. and could reach $263bn by 2019, The UAE central bank took an many conventional institutions to essarily ensure profits, however. ate into a centre for an “Islamic Several initiatives announced consultancy EY estimates. It said important step towards improv- pour into the sector, that competi- Dubai’s Mashreq said its Islamic economy” with sharia-compliant by Dubai could have a big impact Islamic assets accounted for about ing Islamic banks’ liquidity last tion starts to hurt profit margins business was growing about 40 businesses ranging from bank- on the Islamic banking sector but a fifth of the country’s total bank- month, making it easier for them and the market quickly becomes percent annually, but its non- ing to asset management, trade, have not yet materialised. ing assets, which according to cen- to access its special lending facility saturated. interest income shrank 7.7 percent food preparation and certification, One such initiative is a central tral bank data grew 10.6 percent by expanding the range of collat- Last year, Abu Dhabi’s Union in 2014. Interest income — which fashion, education and tourism. sharia board of Islamic scholars in 2014. The second way in which eral they can use. National Bank opened five Islamic is banned by Islamic finance — This looked like good news that would oversee the sector, Dubai’s Islamic economy drive is Some of the UAE’s six full banking branches and saw its grew 26 percent. for Islamic banks in the United potentially standardising banks’ benefiting banks is an increased Islamic banks are clearly benefit- Islamic deposits triple. In October, Hussain Al Qemzi, chief exec- Arab Emirates, and over the past products and reducing uncer- emphasis on sharia-compliant ing. Historically, a lack of scale National Bank of Fujairah utive of Noor Bank, said that 18 months, some have appeared tainty over their religious permis- financing — bond issues and loans has made them less profitable launched an Islamic retail banking although banks were expanding to benefit. But others have not, sibility. This could reduce costs for — by the Dubai government and than conventional banks, but for business; it plans to expand into their Islamic windows, not all of underlining the sometimes unpre- banks and increase the confidence big companies related to it. some the gap is shrinking. Noor the wholesale segment this year, them considered the windows as dictable consequences of govern- of customers. For example Dubai’s Noor Bank, Bank reported a record net profit said chief executive Vince Cook. core to their business. “In that ment efforts to develop Islamic Another project still in the whose owners include state funds of Dh678.1m ($184.6m) for 2014, a “Overall, we should expect sense, yes it can be viewed as a finance in the Gulf. planning stage is the world’s first Investment Corporation of Dubai 166 percent leap from 2013. NBF Islamic to keep pace with defensive strategy aimed at pro- Tirad Mahmoud, chief executive fully sharia-compliant export- and Dubai Holding, is launching Last year, Abu Dhabi Islamic the bank’s overall growth targets tecting market share in Muslim of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank , said import bank, which could spur the roadshows for a debut sukuk issue. Bank bought the UAE retail once it has settled, which puts its majority markets.” REUTERS SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 23 Marquez takes Honda MotoGP rider Marc Marquez of Spain cel- ebrates his pole in Argentina pole position after the quali- fying session Esparago and Iannone complete front row at Argentina’s MotoGP Grand Prix at the TERMAS DE RÍO HONDO, completed the second row on the Termas de Argentina: Reigning double MotoGP free second factory GP15. Rio Hondo world champion Marc Marquez practice times Pramac Ducati’s Danilo stormed to his 24th pole posi- Petrucci parked his GP14.3 in sev- International Termas de Río Hondo, Argentina: Leading tion in just 39 MotoGP races in enth place, just ahead of Valentino Circuit in third and final free practice times yesterday Termas de Argentina yesterday. ahead of today’s Argentine motorcycling Rossi who again couldn’t find good The Spanish Honda rider will Grand Prix: pace and must again start from Rio Hondo, line up alongside compatriot 3rd free practice the third row. Maverick Vinales yesterday. Aleix Esparago (Suzuki) and 1. Marc Marquez (ESP/Honda) 1min 38sec made qualfying two in his own Italy’s Andrea Iannone (Ducati) 602sec, 2. Carl Crutchlow (GBR/Honda) at right and it was the first time two on the front row of the grid. 0.056sec, 3. Andrea Iannone (ITA/Ducati) Suzuki’s had gone through auto- The 22-year-old flew around the 0.189, 4. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA/Ducati) matically. He finished in ninth. Thermes de Rio Hondo circuit in 0.216, 5. Aleix Espargaro (ESP/Suzuki) Bradley Smith fought his way 1min 37.802sec to snatch pole for 0.317, 6. Jorge Lorenzo (ESP/Yamaha) through qualifying one to set the the second year in a row here. 0.350, 7. Valentino Rossi (ITA/Yamaha) tenth fastest time and he was 0.417, 8. Maverick Vinales (ESP/Suzuki) Britain’s Carl Crutchlow (Honda), joined by Hector Barbera. Smith’s 0.595, 9. Danilo Petrucci (ITA/Ducati) 0.651, Spain’s former world champion 10. Scott Redding (GBR/Honda) 0.710 team-mate Pol Espargaro had a Jorge Lorenzo (Yamaha) and Italian nightmare in qualifying one and Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati) will start he was on when asked as he genu- ended down in 18th place after on the second row. inely seems not to know one from having two big moments. Italian legend Valentino Rossi, the other which is extraordinary. Eugene Laverty, who has made who won the first race of the Espargaro used the Suzuki’s some serious progress with elec- season, could manage only eighth softest-option tyre to set his time tronics this weekend, continued fastest on a Yamaha. Marquez and also made two stops to mirror his free practice form and finished was again in a class of his own Marquez, while Iannone made it in 14th place, one behind Yonny during qualifying, switching from three different manufacturers on Hernandez and five in front of bike to bike twice during the ses- the front row, putting his factory team-mate Nicky Hayden. sion before setting pole position Ducati - also shod with the soft Marquez arrives in Argentina by half a second from Espargaro. rear Bridgestone - into third place. for Sunday’s third leg of the The reigning world champion Even though Crutchlow headed MotoGP championship with a had two bites of the front-row up row two on the CWM LCR spring in his step after dominat- cherry in his second run, putting Honda, he again seemed unhappy ing last weekend’s Grand Prix of in a 1’37.873 before coming in and with pretty much everything and the Americas. changing bikes then going back was waving his arms at Lorenzo The Honda star, who reeled out with a couple of minutes left after he slowed in the final sector off wins in the first ten races last to set a 1’37.807 which was two- on his fastest lap of 1’38.485. year, was back in business in the tenths outside of his pole record Lorenzo was the quickest of Texas state capital Austin after The members of the Qatar Endurance Racing Team (QERT) Alex Cudlin, Mishal Al Naimi, Arturo Tizon and from last year. In Parc Ferme, the Movistar Yamahas in fifth a sluggish season-opening fifth in Saeed Al Sulaiti pose for a group picture at Le Mans ahead of the 24 Heures Motos. Marquez had to check which bike place, one ahead of Dovizioso who Qatar. AGENCIES Promising start for QMMF Racing Team QERT ready to battle

TERMAS DE RÍO HONDO, are three or four points on the Argentina: QMMF Racing track where I can improve and we for first win of season Team riders Julian Simon and will concentrate on these in the Anthony West had a promis- Saturday practice sessions. But all DOHA: The opening round overall position in a field of 56 ing start into the Grand Prix of in all, we had a really good start of the Endurance World participants. Argentina. here in Argentina and I want to Championship takes place this In the EWC category, the On the fast and flowing track congratulate the team on their weekend at Le Mans with the pole position went for the SRC of Termas de Rio Hondo, located good work,” Simon said. 24 Heures Motos. Kawasaki team. about 1100 kilometres to the “I feel good and the bike feels Qatar Endurance Racing Team Despite the incredible per- Northeast of Buenos Aires, Simon good as well! We did a lot of laps (QERT) will battle for the first formances by the work Monster moved up as high as second in the on one tyre, more than race dis- win of the season with a team Energy YART Yamaha riders the Friday afternoon practice session tance, and I still kept improving, consisting of Alex Cudlin, Mishal SRC Kawasaki team held on to a and finished the day in ninth posi- so if we put a new tyre we should Al Naimi, Arturo Tizon and Saeed tiny advantage during the second tion overall. be faster again,” West said. Al Sulaiti. qualifying session and clinched West was not far behind and “I was comfortable behind The QERT members this sea- pole position for the 38th 24 climbed up to fifth position, but Lowes and could follow him quite son will be riding a Kawasaki ZX Heures Motos. wasn’t quite able to match the easily and I felt as strong as many 10R, informed the team in a press The 56 bikes in the 24 Heures speed of his competitors in the other riders out there. We had a release. Motos will take part in the warm- end because of a worn rear tyre small problem with the front in As in previous year, the QERT up today morning. and dropped to eleventh. With a the first session, there were some team will compete in the Super The riders in the 24 Heures new set of tyres, he is confident sections where Lowes could turn Stock category. Motos will go out for their recon- to be able to challenge his rivals his bike a little bit easier, but the In the qualifying sessions yes- naissance laps before the grid in the qualifying session. bike was better. I am also quite terday, the QERT team were in procedure followed by the count- “I am happy because the set- consistent with my lap times, Anthony West of QMMF Racing Team in action at the Grand Prix of good form and managed to fin- down to the race action in one of ting of the bike is really good. My which is promising for the race.” Argentina. ish third in the Super Stock cat- the most exciting races. feeling with the bike is goodThere THE PENINSULA egory and ninth position in the THE PENINSULA Baseball Results Detroit 2 Chicago White Sox 1 Beach Touch Rugby Challenge at Katara Beach San Diego 5 Chicago Cubs 4 Washington 7 Philadelphia 2 Pittsburgh 6 Milwaukee 3 Ledecky keeps Atlanta 8 Toronto 7 Boston 3 Baltimore 2 NY Mets 4 Miami 1 NY Yankees 5 Tampa Bay 4 Action from the US flag flying Minnesota 3 Cleveland 2 Beach Touch Kansas City 6 Oakland 4 Rugby Challenge PHOENIX: With Michael ahead of Denmark’s Lotte Friis La Angels 6 Houston 3 at Katara Beach on Friday. Twelve Phelps taking the night off, (4:10.34) with Allison Schmitt St Louis 6 Cincinnati 1 teams consisting Katie Ledecky flew the US flag third in 4:13.21. Texas 3 Seattle 1 of eight play- at the Mesa Pro Series swim- “I’m pretty happy with where I LA Dodgers 7 Colorado 3 ers took part ming meeting on Friday with a am right now,” said Ledecky, who Arizona 9 San Francisco 0 sizzling 400m freestyle victory. arrived in Mesa off a high altitude in the one-day In his first meet since serving training camp. championship. the six-month suspension that fol- The third night of the four-day Gomes excels PICTURE BY: VP lowed his drunk-driving arrest in meeting in suburban Phoenix had KAMMUTTY September, Phelps had the night a distinctly international flavor. as Braves off after failing to qualify for the Hungary’s “Iron Lady” of swim- men’s 400m free final. ming Katinka Hosszu won the down Blue Jays Phelps had entered the unfa- 100m backstroke in 1:00.72, with miliar event -- which he last two-time Olympic gold medalist NEW YORK: Pinch-hitter raced at a grand prix meeting in Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe sec- Jonny Gomes hit a solo home 2009 -- just to challenge himself, ond in 1:00.89 and Ukraine’s Iryna run, first baseman Freddie having got his latest comeback off Glavynk third in 1:01.84. Freeman added a two-run to a winning start with a 100m Belgium’s Louis Croenen, rac- homer in a three-run eighth butterfly triumph on Thursday. ing in the United States for the inning and the Atlanta Braves Canadiens take 2-0 series lead Phelps will try to add to his first time, broke two minutes to held on to defeat the Toronto win tally today, when he is slated win the men’s 200m fly with a time Blue Jays in the Major League MONTREAL : PK Subban overtime.Montreal retained to swim the 100m freestyle and of 1:59.61, holding off American here yesterday. knew he had to do something home-ice advantage by winning NHL Results 200m individual medley. Tyler Clary who was second in The Braves (7-3) overcame a to make up for being ejected its first two home games of the Montreal 3 Ottawa 2 But with the 18-time Olympic 2:00.23. Arianna Vanderpool- five-homer barrage by the Blue from the opening game of the best-of-seven series. gold medalist on the sidelines, it Wallace of the Bahamas won the Jays (5-6), including two each by Montreal Canadiens first-round Ottawa will try to do the same (Montreal lead the was Ledecky who shone for home women’s 50m free in 24.84sec. third baseman Josh Donaldson play-off series. in Game 3 today and Game 4 on best-of-seven series by 2-0) fans. Rising US talent Simone Manuel and catcher Russell Martin. The Canadiens star defence- Wednesday at the Canadian Tire Washington 4 NY Islanders 3 The 18-year-old freestyle was second in 24.98 and 32-year- Jose Iglesias bounced a single man, drawing inspiration from Centre. superstar crushed the field in old American veteran Natalie past drawn-in second baseman a vote of confidence from leg- Subban was tossed from the (The best-of-seven series is level at 1-1) winning the women’s 400m free in Coughlin -- owner of 12 Olympic Emilio Bonifacio to score pinch end Jean Beliveau’s wife Elise, opener, a 4-3 Montreal win, in Nashville 6 Chicago 2 4min 01.95sec, the second-fastest medals -- was third in 25.15. runner Andrew Romine from responded with a goal and a solid the second period with a slashing time in the world this year behind Arkady Vyatchanin held off third with one out in the ninth 29:06 of ice time as Montreal major and a game misconduct for (The best-of-seven series is level at 1-1) the 4:00.47 she clocked in Austin, reigning Olympic champion Matt inning and give the Detroit Tigers downed the Ottawa Senators a two-handed chop to the wrist Vancouver 4 Calgary 1 Texas, in January. Grevers of the United States to a victory over the Chicago White 3-2 in Game 2. Alex Galchenyuk of Senators scoring leader Mark World record-holder Ledecky win the men’s 100m backstroke (The best-of-seven series is level at 1-1) Sox. REUTERS scored the winner 3:40 into Stone. AGENCIES finished more than eight seconds in 53.84sec. AFP SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 24 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT Djokovic whips Nadal to

enter Monte Carlo final Petra Kvitova of Czech Top seed to meet Berdych for title after 6-3, 6-3 win Republic returns MONTE CARLO, Monaco: a ball to Novak Djokovic moved into Kristina position for a potential fourth Mladenovic trophy this season as he reached Novak of France his fourth career final at the Djokovic of during their Monte Carlo Masters yesterday Serbia returns Fed Cup with a 6-3, 6-3 defeat of Rafael the ball to semi- final Nadal. Rafael Nadal in Ostrava, Djokovic, the world number one of Spain yesterday. and form player this season with during their titles from the Australian Open plus the first two Masters 1000 semi-final events of 2015 at Indian Wells and match at the Miami, advanced into his 33rd Monte Carlo Masters final with a 97-minute Masters in winning display. Roquebrune Nadal, eight-time champion Cap Martin, in the principality, played with France, enthusiasm but appeared to still yesterday. be suffering from the lack of con- INSET: Former fidence and elite fitness which has German tennis bothered him for months. player Boris Today, Djokovic will take an Becker, coach Czechs lead France 18-2 record into the final against of Djokovic, Czech sixth seed Tomas Berdych, attends the who deflated the finals dream of semi-final Gael Monfils 6-1, 6-4. 2-0 in Fed Cup semis match. Djokovic said he needed a top performance to go through OSTRAVA, Czech Republic: mistakes and I need to improve.” against Nadal as he won his fifth Lucie Safarova and Petra Coming back after a month- match from the last six played Kvitova gave holders the Czech long break from the sport, between the two longtime rivals. Republic a 2-0 lead over France Kvitova, the 2011 and 2014 “I’m very happy with how I showed little of the surprising playing in his third final of the possible position to be ready for in the Fed Cup semi-finals after Wimbledon champion, lacked her played against such a tough oppo- form that took him to upset wins season after losing title bids in it, be prepared. the opening rubbers yesterday. usual spirit against the 21-year- nent. Rafa is the all-time best this week against second seed Doha and Rotterdam. “I’m having a great week so On the hardcourt of the CEZ old Mladenovic. on the clay, it was not an easy Roger Federer and Bulgarian Berdych will be competing in a far, it’s all good and positive signs Arena in the eastern Czech city But a break in the first set match,” the Serb said. Grigor Dimitrov. fourth career Masters 1000 final to me,” said the Czech who kept of Ostrava, world number 13 and and two in the second were all “I played well, it was a relief to Instead, the Frenchman and first since losing to Federer in Monfils from becoming the first Czech number two Safarova took the 25-year-old Czech needed get this win. There was a lot of slumped to 23 unforced errors Madrid three years ago. His only Frenchman into the final in the an hour and 58 minutes to beat against an even more lacklustre tension, it was tough to keep it and lost serve four times. title in the series came at Paris principality since Cedric Pioline, 29th-ranked Garcia 4-6, 7-6 (7/1), Mladenovic, preferred by French all under control. The first set was a command Bercy in 2005. champion in 2000. 6-1. captain Amelie Mauresmo over a “I know the final with Tomas performance for Berdych, the “This year is going pretty well, The win was the sixth out of World number four Kvitova better-placed Alize Cornet for the will be a different kind of match, Czech emerged with the 2-1 lead I’m missing a trophy but I have seven for Berdych over Monfils. then saw off 58th-ranked Kristina opening singles. but I’ll do my best to recover and as the second set began with three another chance tomorrow: said Berdych has reached final with- Mladenovic in 6-3, 6-4 in an hour “It was a tough game, I have get ready.” straight breaks and took victory Berdych. out losing a set as he plays the and 21 minutes to take the Czechs come back after a longer pause Djokovic won the opening set in 68 minutes. Berdych will be “I’ve put myself in the best event for the 11th time. AFP within a point of the finals. and I didn’t know what to expect after coming back from an early The two lefties already led the from myself,” said Kvitova. break down against Nadal, with Czechs to Fed Cup titles in 2011, “I got a boost from the first the top seed claiming the set on 2012 and 2014 while France are point won by Lucie, it was a bit a third set point. playing the first semi-finals since easier for me to play.” The second pivoted on a mas- 2007 after winning their last Fed In today’s reverse singles, sive 11-minute seventh game, Cup trophy in 2003. Kvitova is due to face Garcia which Djokovic won on a break Safarova and Garcia held serve and Safarova will then take on for a 4-3 lead after Nadal lost a until the tenth game of set one Mladenovic, but the captains may 40-0 lead. when an aggressive, well-serving decide to change the teams. World number one Djokovic Garcia broke her rival and closed Czechs Karolina Pliskova and closed out the victory two games out the set 6-4. Barbora Strycova were drawn later with another break of the The second set went exactly against Alize Cornet and Pauline Spaniard as Nadal saved a match the same way but the 21-year- Parmentier for Sunday’s doubles. point before falling victim to a old Garcia squandered five The winner of the tie will take cross-court winner. match points against Safarova’s on either Russia or Germany in Djokovic is bidding to become serve and the game changed the finals. AFP the first man to win the opening dramatically. three Masters tournaments of a The 28-year-old Safarova took season and would win his fourth the set in tie-break after sweep- Fed Cup Results in a row - levelling with Nadal in ing Garcia 7/1 and never looked Results of the Fed Cup semi-final tie that category - after also winning back, breezing past the French between the Czech Republic and France in November 2014 at Paris Bercy. youngster 6-1 in the third set. played in the eastern Czech city of Ostrava Against Berdych, Monfils “It was pretty wild, wasn’t it?” yesterday. Safarova beamed after the game. Czech Republic 2 France 0 “Of course I was nervous... but Monte Carlo Lucie Safarova (CZE) bt Caroline Garcia I kept hoping, in tennis it’s not (FRA) 4-6, 7-6 (7/1), 6-1 Masters Results over until it’s over, you can always come back, so I played more Petra Kvitova (CZE) bt Kristina Mladenovic Results on the seventh day of the ATP aggressively and hoped it would (FRA) 6-3, 6-4 Monte Carlo Masters yesterday. turn out differently in the end.” Playing today Semi-finals Rafael Nadal of Spain reacts during his semi-final Her stunned opponent ended Petra Kvitova (CZE) vs Caroline Garcia (FRA) Tomas Berdych (CZE x6) bt Gael Monfils match against Novak Djokovic. RIGHT: Czech up in tears. (FRA x14) 6-1, 6-4 Lucie Safarova (CZE) vs Kristina Mladenovic (FRA) Republic’s Tomas Berdych hits a return to France’s “I think this has never hap- Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) bt Rafael Nadal Karolina Pliskova/Barbora Strycova (CZE) vs Gael Monfils during their semifinal match. pened to me before,” said Garcia. (ESP x3) 6-3, 6-3 “If I lost, it’s because I made Alize Cornet/Pauline Parmentier (FRA Emir Cup Table Tennis Tournament

Al Arabi’s G Shemet returns the ball to Al Ahli’s Murad (not pictured) during their quarter-final match of the Emir Cup Table Tennis Tournament at Qatar Table Tennis Training Center in Doha, yesterday. CENTRE: El Jaish’s player KH Nasser (right) in action against Al Gharafa’s Chong during their quarter-final match. RIGHT: Al Wakra’s H Ali serves against MA Wahab of Qatar SC in the other quarter-final match at the same venue. PICTURES: KAMMUTTY VP SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 25

Overdrive Racing enters three Toyota Hiluxes in Sealine rally

Toyota Showroom Manager Shaji Joseph (fourth from left) and Overdrive Racing Team members Marek Dabrowski ( extreme left), Reinaldo Varela (second from left) and Yazeed Alrajhi (third from right) pose with a Toyota Hilux pick-up during a press conference at the AAB headquarters in Doha yesterday. Abdullah Abdulghani & Brothers (AAB), Toyota’s exclusive dealer in Qatar, and Overdrive Racing, a Belgium- based international racing logistics and vehicle modification company, yesterday announced that Toyota was the single- largest entry brand in the FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies as four race teams rev up for the Qatar Sealine Cross-Country Rally scheduled to begin on Monday. “The Overdrive Racing Team will be driving Toyota Hiluxes in this rally. This year the team is doing good, having won second, sixth and seventh position in the Dakar Rally. In the just concluded Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, the Overdrive Racing Team performed well. Overdrive racing team will have Yazeed Alrajhi, Marek Dabrowski and Reinaldo Varela racing for them,” Joseph said. PICTURE: SALIM MATRAMKOT KTM, Honda set for Sealine rally duel Coma chasing third win in five years in Qatar, Bort out to defend his Sealine title

DOHA: Austrian motorcycle Fischer. “Joan and Paulo are manufacturer KTM will take joined by Jeremias. He has just on Honda’s Team HRC in what confirmed a new contract with promises to be a fascinating Team HRC.” two-wheel battle for supremacy The overall winner in the in this week’s Sealine Cross- 26-strong motorcycle category Country Rally, round two of should come from these seven rid- the FIM Cross-Country Rallies ers, although the ever-improving World Championship. Emirati Mohammed Al-Balooshi The two stalwarts of cross- will have other ideas. He fin- country rallying have dominated ished an impressive sixth in Abu the sport in recent seasons and Dhabi and can match and com- lock handlebars again over five pete with the factory riders on an desert stages through the Qatar equal basis on his KTM 450 Rally desert this week, where hot Replica. Portugal’s Ruben Faria winds, searing temperatures and and Chile’s Pablo Quintanilla are demanding navigation will add also capable of stage wins and to the challenges imposed by a podium finishes on their KTMs. daunting desert route laid on for Five quads will do battle for Qatar’s premier off-road motor their prestigious title. Qatar’s sport event. Mohammed Abu Issa is the KTM has enjoyed the brag- defending Sealine champion ging rights so far this season and and faces the defending Dakar Spaniard Marc Coma followed up and two-time Sealine winner a fifth victory in the Dakar Rally Rafal Sonik of Poland. Russia’s with an eighth success at the Abu Aleksandr Maksimov, Paraguay’s Dhabi Desert Challenge a couple Nelson Augusto Sanabria and of weeks ago. At the helm of his Poland’s Kamil Wisniewski com- works Red Bull-backed KTM plete the quad line-up. 450, Coma — a two-time win- This year’s Sealine Cross- ner in Qatar — is the model of Members of the Honda’s Team HRC prepare for the Sealine Cross-Country Rally, at Losail International Circuit, outside Doha, yesterday. RIGHT: Country Rally is being organ- composure, but a number of his Members of the Red Bull KTM Factory Team at Losail International Circuit yesterday. ised by the Qatar Motor and rivals are closely matched and he Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) struggled to cope with the pace While Coma holds the another victory. navigation and the bike.” Spaniard Jordi Viladoms and with support from GAC and the of Honda’s Joan Barreda Bort for early advantage in the FIM “Qatar is very different to Abu Dubai-based Briton Sam the talented Austrian Matthias Salam International Group. long periods in January’s Dakar Cross-Country Rallies World Dhabi. There are a lot of stony Sunderland was Coma’s closest Walkner complete the Red Bull Today, crews complete adminis- Rally. Barreda Bort arrives in Championship, Team HRC’s tracks and a lot of navigation,” challenger in Abu Dhabi and won KTM Factory Team line-up, while tration and scrutineering checks Qatar as the defending Sealine Paulo Goncalves also has a point said Goncalves. “Our objective is a stage in the Dakar Rally before the Chilean Jeremias Esquerra at the Losail international circuit, champion and is keen to repeat to prove. Last year’s Abu Dhabi to continue to develop the bike, as retiring, but Coma’s team-mate replaces Ricky Brabec in Team before a series of pre-event press that success and make up for Desert Challenge winner lost a our chances of taking the world fell and sustained a wrist injury HRC. conferences, featuring the leading the disappointment of losing his potential podium finish with late championship title are reduced on day four in Qatar last year and “We are confident that we can riders, drivers and major spon- long-time Dakar lead with salt- technical issues in Abu Dhabi after the results in Abu Dhabi. will also need to pay close atten- achieve in Qatar what we were sors, will set the scene nicely for induced engine issues and suffer- and dropped back to 36th over- That’s why there’s less pres- tion to the meticulous navigation not able to do in Abu Dhabi and the start of the opening competi- ing an early disappointment in all, but the Portuguese was a close sure. We’ll got into it much more that makes this event unique in that’s take the win,” said Team tive stage tomorrow morning. Abu Dhabi. fourth in Qatar in 2014 and is due relaxed and we can test out the the FIM calendar. HRC’s general manager Wolfgang THE PENINSULA

Bahrain GP F1 champion Hamilton on pole for Bahrain GP Starting Grid MANAMA: Series leader suffering familiar Renault engine Starting grid from the Formula One Bahrain and defending world champion problems, Russian Daniil Kvyat in Grand Prix at the Bahrain International British F1 driver Lewis Hamilton secured his his Red Bull, bright Briton Will Circuit Lewis Hamilton fourth straight pole position of Stevens and his Manor Marussia 1 Lewis Hamilton (Britain) Mercedes (centre) of the season yesterday when he team-mate Spaniard Roberto 2 Sebastian Vettel (Germany) Ferrari Mercedes AMG outpaced all his rivals in quali- Merhi and luckless 2009 cham- 3 Nico Rosberg (Germany) Mercedes fying for today’s Bahrain Grand GP shakes the pion Briton Jenson Button who 4 Kimi Raikkonen (Finland) Ferrari Prix. hand of German failed to clock a serious time, The 30-year-old Briton, in driver Sebastian again, in his McLaren Honda and 5 Valtteri Bottas (Finland) Williams- untouchable form, crushed his Vettel (left) of managed only three laps. Mercedes opponents’ efforts to stay with Scuderia Ferrari By the time Q2 was under way, 6 Felipe Massa (Brazil) Williams- him as he delivered a stunning as Germany’s the temperatures were dropping Mercedes final lap in one minute and 32.571 Nico Rosberg of and the lights were on to create 7 Daniel Ricciardo (Australia) RedBull - seconds. Mercedes AMG a stunning atmosphere to match Renault This lifted him clear of GP looks on Hamilton’s lap in 1:32.669 which 8 Nico Huelkenberg (Germany) Force Germans Sebastian Vettel of at the Bahrain was clearly the fastest. It was India - Mercedes Ferrari, on the front row of the International more than a second quicker than 9 Carlos Sainz Jr (Spain) Toro Rosso - grid, and his Mercedes team- Circuit, near Rosberg’s, set just minutes earlier. Renault mate and rival Nico Rosberg, Manama, Raikkonen was second quickest 10 Romain Grosjean (France) Lotus - who was third ahead of Finn Kimi and both Massa and Vettel were yesterday. Mercedes Raikkonen in the second Ferrari. faster than Rosberg, who was 11 Sergio Perez (Mexico) Force India - “I feel great, very happy,” he fifth, just ahead of Bottas. For Mercedes said afterwards. “That was the Hamilton was four-tenths of for Q3. That’s where I went wrong closer so let’s see what happens.” Hamilton it was a major signal of target, to try to master this track. a second faster than Vettel and today. Being third is not ideal.” The opening Q1 session saw intent before the top ten shootout. 12 Felipe Nasr (Brazil) Sauber - Ferrari That’s how it’s gone this week- half a second quicker than a dis- It was Hamilton’s first pole in the usual suspects in control once Out went Mexican Sergio Perez 13 Marcus Ericsson (Sweden) Sauber - end. The laps were pretty good, appointed Rosberg, who had been Bahrain, the first time he has they switched to soft tyres with of Force India, Brazilian Felipe Ferrari you can always improve, but I’m bidding for a third successive taken four poles in a row and the Hamilton emerging fastest ahead Nasr and his Sauber team-mate 14 Fernando Alonso (Spain) McLaren grateful to have this beast under- Bahrain pole in a bid to rekindle 42nd of his career. of Bottas and Rosberg. Swede Marcus Ericsson, Alonso, 15 Max Verstappen (Netherlands) Toro neath me and really feel I can his title challenge after winning Vettel delighted Ferrari’s fans Spaniard Fernando Alonso, who was 14th, and Dutch teenager Rosso - Renault attack the corners here.” just one of the last 12 races. and management. He said: “I am notably, reached Q2 for the first Max Verstappen of Toro Rosso. 16 Pastor Maldonado (Venezuela) Lotus - The two Williams of Finn Rosberg admitted: “Strategy- very happy with second today. It time in his McLaren Honda while The Q1 showdown began with Mercedes Valtteri Bottas and Brazilian wise, I got it wrong today... I was was a tough session, I didn’t find Rosberg, having considered stay- Vettel and Raikkonen hurry- 17 Daniil Kvyat (Russia) RedBull - Renault Felipe Massa were fifth and thinking too much about the race the rhythm to begin with, but at ing on medium tyres and a banker ing out to begin the session for sixth ahead of Australian Daniel and I under-estimated Sebastian’s the end it was getting better and lap, had to make a late second run Ferrari with the Mercedes men 18 Will Stevens (Britain) Marussia - Ferrari Ricciardo of Red Bull and German speed. I could push. on softs to deliver his time. soon following to set the prelimi- 19 Roberto Merhi (Spain) Marussia - Nico Hulkenberg of Force India. “I took it easy in Q2 to save the “Very happy with the front row Out went Venezuelan Pastor nary pace on the first runs. Ferrari race tyres, so I lacked the rhythm - in the race we are maybe a bit Maldonado of Lotus, after AFP 20 Jenson Button (Britain) McLaren SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 26 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

Al Rayyan crowned Qatargas League champions

Al Rayyan’s players and officials celebrate after winning the Qatargas League. The football giants are back in Qatar Stars League (QSL) after spending a season in Qatargas League. Relegated at the end of the 2013-14 season, Al Rayyan fought back in style winning the second tier of football set-up – the Qatargas League. Ahmed Abdul Aziz Al Buainain, Board Member of Qatar Football Association (QFA), crowned the new Qatargas League champions after Al Rayyan’s final game against Umm Salal at Al Arabi Stadium. Al Rayyan won the final 6-3 and sealed their berth in next QSL season that will commence in September this year. Al Rayyan have sealed their place in QSL with three rounds to play in this year’s Qatargas League. Football officials Hamad Al Kuwari, Adnan Hassan and Atiq Shaddad Al Ghanim were also present at the trophy ceremony.

Adil’s injury Windies frustrate England adds to Pakistan woes

KARACHI: Pakistan’s cricket team have suffered another injury on their tour as Anderson tops Botham of Bangladesh after paceman Ehsan Adil was ruled out due to a hamstring injury, an official Holder’s unbeaten century rescues hosts as first Test ends in draw said yesterday. Adil’s injury is the fourth set- back for Pakistan after batsman NORTH SOUND, Antigua Scoreboard It ultimately proved unsuccess- Sohaib Maqsood (arm fracture) and Barbuda: James Anderson ful as tailender Kemar Roach sol- and fast bowler Sohail Khan became England’s leading England (I Innings): ...... 399 idly defended everything hurled at (back injury) were ruled out wicket-taker in Test history West Indies (I Innings): ...... 295 him to end unbeaten on 15 off 75 before the tour began, while leg- but celebration of the historic England (II Innings): ...... 333/7 decl. deliveries. He survived one scare spinner Yasir Shah injured his milestone could not be comple- West Indies (II Innings): when given out caught behind thumb in a practice match prior mented by a team triumph as K Brathwaite c Root b Broad ...... 5 down the leg-side off Anderson to the one-day series. the West Indies hung on for a D Smith c Ballance b Tredwell ...... 65 only for umpire Billy Bowden’s Hosts Bangladesh hammered draw on the final day of the first D Bravo c Jordan b Root ...... 32 decision to be reversed on refer- Pakistan by 79 runs in the first Test at the Sir Vivian Richards M Samuels c Tredwell b Anderson ...... 23 ral by the batsman. of three One Day Internationals Stadium in Antigua on Friday. S Chanderpaul lbw Root ...... 13 A swift afternoon capitulation of the tour on Friday in Dhaka. Jason Holder played the innings J Blackwood c Buttler b Jordan ...... 31 appeared inevitable when the Ehsan was not a part of the play- of his young cricketing life to take D Ramdin c Cook b Anderson ...... 57 West Indies lost three important ing XI in the opening match of the home side to safety with three J Holder (not out) ...... 103 wickets in the morning, resuming the series. wickets in hand at 350 for seven K Roach (not out) ...... 15 at 98 for two. “Adil is out of Bangladesh one- after they were set the improb- Extras (B-2, LB-2, NB-2) ...... 6 Samuels’ dismissal for 23 day series due to hamstring injury able target of 438. Total (7 wkts, 129.4 overs) ...... 350 after an hour’s play followed the and will be replaced by Umar His maiden Test hundred of 103 Fall of wickets: 1-7, 2-90, 3-119, 4-127, demise just a few minutes earlier Gul,” the Pakistan Cricket Board not out, which spanned almost 5-155, 6-189, 7-294 of the other overnight batsman, announced. four hours during which he faced To bat: Jerome Taylor, Sulieman Benn Devon Smith. Having restrained Adil, 22, will return home later 149 deliveries and struck 15 fours, Bowling: Anderson 24.4-3-72-2, Broad 21- himself admirably in more than Saturday while Gul will fly to rescued the Caribbean team from 5-61-1, Tredwell 40-14-93-1, Jordan 18-6- three hours at the crease, the left- Dhaka the same night ahead of what appeared to be a hopeless 48-1 (2nb), Stokes 13-0-50-0, Root 13-6- handed opener miscued a lofted the second ODI. position when they slipped to 22-2 on-drive at James Tredwell to be Gul was named earlier for the 189 for six early in the afternoon Result: Match drawn caught by Gary Ballance at mid- Twenty20 to be played on April session. on for 65. 24. It was at that point, after Tredwell, who bowled Team manager Naveed Cheema first innings centurion Jermaine Marlon Samuels in the morning, unchanged for an hour-and-a-half said in Dhaka that Adil’s injury Blackwood added to the litany of Anderson returned with the sec- in the morning session, should had worsened. dismissals via irresponsible shots ond new ball and finally separated have snared Samuels shortly “Adil had a minor injury while from the top-order, that Holder Ramdin and Holder, inducing an after but the batsman, deceived coming to Bangladesh, we thought came to the crease. His calm, indeterminate defensive prod completely by a cleverly flighted he would be fine. Today we exam- controlled batting was the perfect from Ramdin to have the West delivery, was mis-stumped by ined him again and found that he foil to Denesh Ramdin’s growing Indies captain caught for 57 by wicketkeeper Jos Buttler. has aggravated the hamstring defiance, the pair putting on 105 his England counterpart, Alastair However Samuels did not make injury,” Cheema said. runs for the seventh wicket when Cook, at first slip. the most of escape and when “The physio is of the opinion Anderson broke the record and Anderson greeted the historic Shivnarine Chanderpaul was pal- that he cannot recover suffi- gave his team one last chance to moment with a combination of pably LBW to Joe Root, who had ciently in the next seven days, so push for victory heading into the celebration and relief at claiming replaced the persevering frontline we are sending him back.” final hour of the match. the coveted record in his 100th off-spinner Tredwell, 15 minutes Sir Ian Botham (left) congratulates James Anderson after he broke the The second ODI will be played Having drawn level with Test, although England’s focus from the interval, the English cel- record for the most Test wickets for an England player during the final today while the third and last the record tally of 383 wick- reverted swiftly to getting back ebrated dismissal of one of their day of the opening Test against the West Indies at the Sir Vivian Richards game will be plyed on Wednesday. ets by former all-rounder Sir to the business of claiming the most resolute adversaries as if the Stadium in Antigua on Friday. The one-dayers will be followed by Ian Botham when he dismissed last three wickets. match itself had been won. AFP two Tests. AFP IPL: Knight Riders, Daredevils notch up victories VISAKHAPATNAM: Delhi Scoreboard Scoreboard but regular fall of wickets slowed Daredevils snatched a thrill- down the flow of runs. ing four-run win over Sunrisers KINGS XI PUNJAB KOLKATA KNIGHT RIDERS DELHI DAREDEVILS S Dhawan b Duminy ...... 18 Despite the fall of wickets, the Hyderabad to earn their sec- Sunrisers were able to maintain M Vijay c Russell b UT Yadav ...... 0 RV Uthappa lbw b Sandeep Sharma ...... 13 MA Agarwal c Dhawan b B Kumar ...... 1 RS Bopara c Tiwary b Duminy ...... 41 ond victory in the 2015 Indian a strong run rate, helping them V Sehwag c Chawla b Russell ...... 11 G Gambhir c Saha b Sandeep Sharma .....11 SS Iyer c Warner b P Kumar ...... 60 KL Rahul b Mathews ...... 24 Premier League (IPL) in four needing 10 runs off the last over. WP Saha c Pathan b Morkel ...... 15 MK Pandey c Bailey b Sandeep Sharma ..12 JP Duminy b Steyn ...... 54 NV Ojha c Duminy b Imran Tahir ...... 12 outings at the ACA-VDCA But a brilliant last over from GJ Maxwell c Russell b UT Yadav ...... 33 SA Yadav c Saha b Perera ...... 23 Yuvraj Singh c Warner b Ashish Reddy ...... 9 EJG Morgan b Duminy ...... 1 Stadium here yesterday. pace bowler Nathan Coulter-Nile GJ Bailey run out (ten Doeschate/Uthappa) 60 YK Pathan (not out) ...... 28 AD Mathews (not out) ...... 15 A Ashish Reddy run out (Coulter-Nile) ...... 15 Two brilliant half-centuries helped the Daredevils allow the NLTC Perera c Pandey b Russell ...... 9 RN ten Doeschate lbw b Sandeep Sharma .0 KM Jadhav (not out) ...... 19 from opener Shreyas Iyer (60) and KV Sharma c Mathews b Coulter-Nile ...... 19 Sunrisers only five runs, bagging Gurkeerat Singh c SA Yadav b UT Yadav ...11 AD Russell b Johnson ...... 66 Extras (B 1, LB 2, W 6) ...... 9 captain JP Duminy (54) guided P Kumar (not out) ...... 1 the match. AR Patel c SA Yadav b Narine ...... 2 PP Chawla (not out) ...... 4 Total (4 wkts; 20 overs) 167 Extras (B 2, LB 1, W 1) ...... 4 the Daredevils to a competitive Extras In other match, Kolkata Knight MG Johnson c Gambhir b Morkel ...... 1 (LB 1, W 1) ...... 2 Did not bat: MK Tiwary, NM Coulter-Nile, A Total (8 wkts; 20 overs) ...... 163 total of 167/4 in 20 overs. In reply, Anureet Singh (not out) ...... 0 Total (6 wkts; 17.5 overs) ...... 159 Riders beat Kings XI Punjab by Mishra, Imran Tahir, DJ Muthuswami Fall of wickets: 1-50, 2-51, 3-89, 4-120, the hosts could only manage 163/8 Extras (B 9, LB 1, W 3) ...... 13 Did not bat: SP Narine, M Morkel, UT Yadav four wickets at the Maharashtra Fall of wickets: 1-15, 2-93, 3-132, 4-132 5-128, 6-129, 7-159, 8-163 with Man of the Match Duminy Total (9 wkts; 20 overs) ...... 155 Fall of wickets: 1-16, 2-34, 3-60, 4-60, 5-60, Cricket Association Stadium. Bowling: P Kumar 4-0-38-1 (2w); DW Steyn Bowling: NM Coulter-Nile 4-0-26-1; JP Du- also starring with the ball, taking Did not bat: Sandeep Sharma 6-155 Put in to bat, Kings XI scored 4-0-27-1; B Kumar 4-0-21-1 (1w); RS Bopara miny 3-0-17-4 (1w); DJ Muthuswami 2-0-20- 3/17 in four overs. Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-23, 3-27, 4-90, 5-107, Bowling: Sandeep Sharma 4-1-25-4; Anureet 155/9, with skipper George Bailey 4-0-38-0 (2w); KV Sharma 2-0-25-0; A Ashish 0; AD Mathews 4-0-38-1; Imran Tahir 4-0-35- Opting to bat, Daredevils did 6-13, 7-146, 8-154, 9-155 Singh 4-0-37-0; MG Johnson 3.5-0-41-1; (60) being the top scorer. Reddy 2-0-15-1 (1w) not start well as they lost open- Bowling: UT Yadav 4-0-33-3 (1w); M Morkel NLTC Perera 4-0-33-1 (1w); AR Patel 2-0-22-0 1; A Mishra 2-0-14-0; Yuvraj Singh 1-0-10-0 Umesh Yadav (3-33) was the ing batsman Mayank Agarwal (1) 4-0-27-2 ; AD Russell 4-0-39-2 (2w); SP Nar- Player-of-the-match: AD Russell (Kolkata SUNRISERS HYDERABAD Player-of-the-match: JP Duminy (Delhi Dare- most successful KKR bowler. cheaply in only the third over. But ine 4-0-17-1; PP Chawla 4-0-29-0 Knight Riders) DA Warner c & b Duminy ...... 28 devils) In reply, Kolkata Knight Riders a 78-run second-wicket partner- reached 159/6 in 17.5 overs. Andre ship between Iyer and Duminy Russel scored 66 for the winners revived the innings. The two per- batsmen. While chasing, the and captain David Warner (28) spinner Duminy sent back both Ravi Bopara (41) and Lokesh while Sandeep Sharma (4/25) formances were the only notable Sunrisers took off well with open- striking a 50-run stand. However, the openers and turned the match Rahul (24) came out with crucial was the most successful Kings contributions from the Daredevils ing batsmen Shikhar Dhawan (18) a brilliant seventh over from in favour of the visitors. contributions for the home side XI bowler. AGENCIES SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 27

The team of Khalid Hamad Al Attiyah of Qatar, Hamad Nasser Al Qadi of Qatar and Khalid Al Eid of Saudi Arabia with their trophies after winning the 130/135cm class team event of the Doha Tour Grand Prix at Al Shaqab’s Indoor Arena in Doha yesterday. RIGHT: Qatar’s Saeed Nasser Al Qadi receives his trophy after winning the accumulator class competition yesterday. PICTURES: LOTFI GARSI Saudi rider Al Sharbatly wins inaugural Doha Tour Grand Prix Qatar’s Saeed Nasser Al Qadi wins accumulator class contest at Al Shaqab show

BY RIZWAN REHMAT “Yesterday (Friday) the com- won here will remain in the Qatar petition was difficult but today it Equestrian Federation office. We DOHA: Showjumping star was even tougher,” Al Sharbatly, will prize this event. People will Abdullah Waleed Al Sharbatly a member of the Saudi team that see this trophy even after 20 yesterday capped a dream run won the bronze medal at the 2012 years,” he said. in Qatar as he won the inaugural Summer Olympics, said. “Next year, we will have three Doha Tour Grand Prix in which “Abdulrahman Alrajhi legs in this series. Our prize all top three spots were grabbed (Chicago) and Khalid Al Eid money matches the events on by riders from Saudi Arabia. (Senorita) all tried to catch my the international calendar. The Al Sharbatly, who won com- time but they couldn’t. Thank Doha Tour in 2016 will be an petition two on Friday, secured God, I won. event on the (FEI’s) international the feature event yesterday with “My strategy was to go fast in calendar.” a time of 36.89 seconds as his the beginning and put pressure The two-leg event kicked off on trusted ride Sacramento pro- on the others. I did a time that April 11. The first leg ended the duced a neat routine for the was going to be hard to beat,” next day at QEF’s Outdoor Arena. second day in succession at Al Al Sharbatly, the individual sil- The second leg concluded at Al Shaqab’s Indoor Arena here. ver medal at the 2010 FEI World Shaqab’s Indoor Arena yesterday. The 32-year-old Saudi star Equestrian Games, said. THE PENINSULA picked up the top prize of QR “I am happy because I won the 50,000 in the 145/150cm class to points and the Grand Prix,” he Show Jumping Results supplement his win on Friday. added. Class (4): Accumulator, 269, 120/125cm “I am very happy and proud In the team competition yes- Prize money: QR20,000 how I won today,” Al Sharbatly terday, Qatar’s Khalid Hamad (Read as jockey, horse, time and prize said after edging compatriots Al Attiyah and Hamad Nasser money) Abdulrahman Alrajhi and Khalid Al Qadi joined Saudi Arabia’s Al Al Eid to the top spot in the Eid to top the 130/135cm class to Saeed Nasser Al Qadi, Jessico 4, 49.23, jump-off. claim the top prize of QR 27,000. QR5,000 “He (Sacramento) is my horse The trio registered a cumu- Khaled Almobty, Aloha, 52.17, QR4,000 number six. All my main horses lative time of 149.67 seconds to Ali Yousef Al Malki, Diamond Delemma, are in Europe at the moment,” he emerge as the winner in round 54.75, QR3,000 said. against the clock. Abdulrahman Alrajhi, Chille Pepper, 55.40, “Me and him, we had a good Al Eid strutted out on Valuta Saudi Arabia’s Abdullah Waleed Al Sharbatly rides Sacramento to victory at Al Shaqab’s Indoor Arena in Doha QR2,000 understanding these past two A and managed a time of 69.95 yesterday. Ahmed Mohammad Al Badi, Antine Drumes, weeks. I am really, really happy seconds in his turn followed by Al 59.13, QR1,400 with this horse. He was out for Qadi, who was astride Lonnie. Al “All of us were in one team. competition,” he said. speedy moves. Normally when he Class (5): 130/135cm Teams a year with an injury,” the Saudi Qadi managed a time of 79.72. Al It was a good mix,” he said. “I “First of all we see how the first clears, it is very difficult to beat Competition. One round against the said. Attiyah, astride Viking D, posted thought it was a good and strong rider will ride out. We watch him his time.” clock FEI Art: 238.2.1 “This is the first two shows for 72.70 with eighth faults in his show for all us who contested closely. Then we see if the second “For these classes, he’s really him — last week and this week. turn. today.” rider could do better speed than competitive. I love this horse,” Al Team A He performed amazing. I saved “It was a big show for us since “You can’t say that you will win the first one. Qadi said. “I have been riding him (Read as jockey, horse, time) him last week. I didn’t go fast we had a mix of Qatari riders a competition but you get the feel- “And the last rider quickly for four years, I guess.” Khalid Al Eid, Valuta A, 69.95 then but today I did. He jumped competing alongside Saudi rid- ing that you could be at the top. compares how the first two per- “I always ride him in speed Hamad Nasser Al Qadi, S I E C Lonnie, 79.72 unbelievably. He’s phenomenal. ers,” Qatar’s Hamad said. We were pretty strong in this formed and then he formulates classes,” the young Qatari added. Khalid Hamad Al Attiya, Viking D, 8 faults, 72.70 his own show. Whether he has to When asked about the event Total time: 149.67 do speed or make a clear round is at Al Shaqab, Al Qadi said: “This Al Shaqab’s Al Mouwaffak victorious his decision. competition is very tough. It Prize Money: QR27,000 “I think we will be going to really tests you. It has the best Team B: Belgium (next week) where we facilities in the world. It is the Ali Yousef Al Rumaihi, Eurocommerce Al Shaqab’s Al have a Global Champions Tour leg biggest indoor venue in the world. California, 72.74 Mouwaffak won and then we will compete at other Every rider is desperate to ride at Mohammae Saeed Haidan, Kingdom Come, 77.60 the H H Sheikh European events,” Hamad said. this arena.” Salem Rashed Al Marri, Marfurlong Magic, 72.74 In the day’s first competition, “The organisation, the course Zayed Bin Sultan Al Total time: 150.34 Qatar’s Saeed Nasser Al Qadi designer, the fences, everything Nahyan Cup (Gr2 PA) roared to an impressive win with is well organized,” Al Qadi said. Prize Money: QR22,500 (Prix de Carthage his four-year-old steed Jessico 4 Al Qadi said he hoped to carry Team C — Hannibal) at to nail the top prize of QR 5,000 on riding so that he realises his Mubarak Yousef Al Rumaihi, Vivaldi K, 69.33 Toulouse, France, on in the accumulator class. dream of reaching the Olympic Saeed Nasser Al Qadi, Day Dreamer, 4 Friday. The Thomas Al Qadi’s winning time was Games one day. faults, 70.11 Fourcy-trained Al clocked at 49.23 seconds at Al “I am happy with this win Abdulla Ali Al Ejail, Vivaldi Mouwaffak sat in Shaqab’s Indoor Arena. today. I hope we can do well in Total time: 139.44 last position before Saudi Arabia’s Khaled Almobty, the future also. I have been rid- Prize Money: QR18,000 coming wide around astride Aloha, clocked a time of ing since I was eight-years-old,” the final bend. He 52.17 seconds to claim the second Al Qadi said. Doha Tour Grand Prix took the lead under a prize of QR 4,000. “I hope I can go and compete Class (6): 145/150cm - One round with hands-and-heels ride In third place was Kuwait’s at the Olympic Games one day. jump off FEI Art: 238.2.2 by Julien Auge and Ali Yousef Al Malki who guided Hopefully, I can reach my target,” Abdullah Waleed Al Sharbatly, Sacramento, held off the challenge Diamond Delemma with purpose he said. 87.59, 36.89, QR 50,000 of Ghadanfar Al to pick up the prize of QR 3,000. QEF Secretary General Khaled Abdulrahman Alrajhi, Chicago, 84.06, Khalediah. H H “Of course I am happy to win Safar Al Hajri yesterday said: “I 39.21, QR 40,000 Sheikh Mohammed because today is the last day of think it was unique to put the Khalid Al Eid, Senorita, 87.58, 39.35, QR 30,000 the show,” Al Qadi said. “Anyone Qatari and Saudi riders together bin Khalifa Al Thani’s Salman Mohammed Al Emadi, SIEC Cosmo, in my position will be happy.” in the team event. It was a fine Amaar was third. 89.10, 39.59, QR 20,000 “He’s a very fine horse,” the mix.” 21-year-old said about Jessico 4. “This makes the competition Sheikh Khalifa Al Thani, Cascaco, 86.49, “He’s very competitive. He likes of a friendly nature. The trophy 40.85, QR 14,000 Sunday 19 April 2015 30 Jumada II 1436 Volume 20 Number 6405 Sport Price: QR2

Marquez Djokovic whips takes pole in Nadal to enter Argentina final

Sport | 23 Sport | 24

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 PSG beat Nice 3-1 to forget Chelsea go ten points clear Barca defeat Hazard strike sinks United, Mourinho’s side two wins away from title PARIS: Paris Saint-Germain bounced back from their LONDON: Champions-elect Champions League humbling Chelsea took a significant step English Premier against Barcelona by beating towards the Premier League League Nice 3-1 yesterday to boost their title as Eden Hazard’s first-half bid for a hat-trick of Ligue 1 London: English Premier League Results goal secured a clinical 1-0 home yesterday: titles. win over in-form Manchester A clinical first half finish from Chelsea 1 (Hazard 38) Manchester United 0 United yesterday. Javier Pastore put PSG in charge Crystal Palace 0 West Bromwich Albion 2 United’s Chris United were seeking a sev- against the run of play. (Morrison 2, Gardner 53) Smalling (left) enth consecutive league win, but Minutes later, Mathieu Bodmer Everton 1 (Mirallas 29) Burnley 0 despite bossing possession, it and Chelsea’s deflected a speculative effort from Leicester 2 (Ulloa 15, King 89) Swansea 0 was Chelsea who prevailed after Eden Hazard vie Said Benrahma to level with the Hazard sped through to score his Stoke 2 (Diouf 47, Adam 84) Southampton for the ball dur- last kick of the half. 1 (Schneiderlin 22) 13th goal of the campaign in the ing the English But Paris took a decisive lead 38th minute at Stamford Bridge. Playing today Premier League in the second half with a fine vol- The Belgian’s strike left his Manchester City vs West Ham (1230 GMT) match at ley from Pastore and an Edinson side 10 points clear of second- Newcastle vs Tottenham (1500 GMT) Stamford Bridge Cavani penalty in a game sand- place Arsenal, who welcome Jose the over-lapping Luke Shaw cut stadium in wiched between Champions Mourinho’s side to the Emirates the ball back for Rooney, but the London, Britain, League commitments. Stadium next weekend, when United number 10 shot’s hit the yesterday. PSG temporarily moved a point another Chelsea win will bring a stanchion to the left of the goal ahead Lyon at the top of the table first title since 2010 within reach. and bounced back into the net, ahead of Sunday’s derby against United’s recent surge had fooling the travelling fans at the Saint-Etienne. prompted talk of an improbable other end into thinking the dead- Nice remain mired in midta- title tilt, but with Louis van Gaal’s lock had been broken. ble in 11th but are still not sade, men 11 points below Chelsea hav- United goalkeeper David de only six points above the relega- ing played a game more, automatic Gea had to toe the ball behind for tion zone. Champions League qualification is a corner after Hazard’s pass sent With Zlatan Ibrahimovic and now their only objective. Cesc Fabregas scampering into Marco Verratti suspended, on And while United’s football sug- the box, but for most of the first top of injuries to Thiago Silva gested there are better days ahead half, the away team looked serene. Reading keeper’s error sees and Thiago Motta, PSG coach at Old Trafford, it is League Cup With Ander Herrera assuredly Laurent Blanc had to rely on a winners Chelsea, whose last seven anchoring the midfield, Van Gaal’s reshuffled team to get past the wins have all been by a one-goal men were finding passing triangles French Riviera side. margin, who are on the brink of all over the pitch and they dem- Arsenal reach FA Cup final Lucas Moura, Serge Aurier another coronation. onstrated their confidence when and Lucas Digne were introduced A calf injury to Michael Carrick Paddy McNair advanced and saw LONDON: Alexis Sanchez sent they needed a penalty shoot-out into the starting line up while obliged Wayne Rooney to drop a shot deflected wide. An unin- holders Arsenal back to the FA to see off second-tier Wigan, but former Chelsea defender David into midfield for the visitors, but formed observer would perhaps Cup final as the Chile winger they clearly didn’t take his mes- Luiz, despite not being fully fit, it was to the United captain that have been forgiven for thinking it benefitted from Reading goal- sage on board. A day that would was bestowed with the captain’s the first chance of the match fell was United, and not Chelsea, who keeper Adam Federici’s howler end in abject misery for Federici armband. on a warm, sunny afternoon in were on the verge of the title, but to seal a 2-1 win at Wembley had started promisingly as he got But it was Pastore’s fourth goal west London. seven minutes before half-time, yesterday. down at his near-post to keep out of the season, following a defence- From Ashley Young’s pass, the hosts went in front. AFP Arsene Wenger’s team strug- Per Mertesacker’s header. opening pass by Lucas, who gave gled to impose themselves on The Royals have slumped to PSG the breakthrough with their their Championship opponents 19th in the second tier table and first real chance of the match. Messi nets as Barca for much of a tense semi-final were playing in the semi-finals for It was, however, quickly can- and were forced into extra-time the first time in 88 years. celled out by former Parisian after Garath McCleary struck Yet although Mesut Ozil went Bodmer, although Nice still went in the second half to cancel out close with a curling free-kick, into the half-time break frus- edge past Valencia Sanchez’s opener. Arsenal, rendered impotent by trated to have nothing more to The Gunners avoided the lot- Reading’s relentless pressing, show form their first half domi- BARCELONA: Lionel Messi left to rue Dani Parejo’s missed tery of a penalty shoot-out thanks were well short of the sparkling nance. The second half was a scored the 400th goal of his penalty in the first half.And Messi to a gift from Australian inter- form they had showed in winning complete reversal, though, as Nice Barcelona career as the Catalans made sure of all three points with national Federici, who allowed 16 of their previous 18 matches. goalkeeper Simon Pouplin shined, beat Champions League-chasing the final kick of the game after Sanchez’s shot to slip agonisingly Wenger’s side eventually broke preventing David Luiz and Lucas Valencia 2-0 to move five points Diego Alves had saved his initial through his grasp in the first the deadlock in the 39th minute from finding the back of the net. clear of Real Madrid at the top effort. period of extra-time. with a fine goal out of character Pastore added his second of of La Liga yesterday. Madrid can move back to Arsenal’s competition-record with the rest of their rather tepid the afternoon just after the Luis Suarez got Barca off to a within two points of the leaders 19th FA Cup final appearance performance. hour mark as he latched onto a flying start as he slotted home the when they host Malaga later on will be against Liverpool or Aston Ozil took possession 30 yards Alexis Sanchez celebrates after rebound after Pouplin saved his opener after just 54 seconds from Saturday. Villa, who meet in the second from goal and, sensing that only scoring the second goal for original driven effort. Messi’s through ball. “We scored in the first minute semi-final on Sunday. a speedy delivery would unhinge Arsenal during the FA Cup semi- Cavani, brought down in the However, it was Valencia and then we had problems over- Wenger had warned his players Reading’s massed defence, final match against Reading at box by Jordan Amavi, bagged his who enjoyed the majority of the coming their pressing,” admitted to heed the lesson of last season’s unfurled a perfect first-time pass Wembley Stadium yesterday. ninth of the season on 69 minutes chances thereafter and they were Barca boss Luis Enrique. AFP FA Cup semi-final victory, when towards Sanchez. AFP to seal the deal. AFP Squash: Qatar’s Al Tamimi tops in GCC championship

DOHA: Abdulla Al Tamimi of Qatar defeated Ammar Al Tamimi of Kuwait to win the 21st GCC squash championship in Riyadh Saudi Arabia yesterday. In the final, Abdulla overcame a tough challenge from the tourna- ment second seed Ammar winning in three games to one. The Qatari won 11-9,11-9, 7-11,11-6 to put an end to the domination of the Kuwaiti player in the GCC championship. Abdulla made history yesterday with his win over becoming the first non-Kuwaiti player to win the championship. The members of the This is the first time, since 26 years when the event was inaugurated, Qatar squash team the title goes to a non-Kuwaiti player. which finished as Earlier in the first round, Abdulla beat compatriot Syed Azlan Qatar runners-up in the GCC 3-0 and folowed it up by defeating the top seed Abdulla Al Muzayen of Championship in Riyadh Kuwait 3-0 (11-8, 12-10, 11-9). Saudi ARabia. RIGHT: In the semi-final he defeated Youssif Nizar of Kuwait 3-0 Abdulla Al Tamimi, win- (11-3,12-10,11-1). ner of the 21st GCC After being crowned as the new champion Abdulla expressed championship, poses his happiness and thanked Aspire for their support as well as Qatar with his trophy. Squash Federation and is hoping to work hard in 2015 to improve his world ranking. In the team event Kuwait finished first while Qatar took the second place, Saudi Arabia third and Bahrain finished in fourth position. Kuwait beat Qatar 2-1 with Abdulla beating Kuwait’s Ammar 3-0. Kuwait’s Al Muzayen beating Qatar’s Abdulrahman Al Malki 3-0. In the decisive match, Syed Azlan of Qatar lost in five to Salem Fayez of Kuwait. It was 11-6 in the fifth after Azlan was hit by his opponents racket and play was suspended for almost 45 minutes. THE PENINSULA