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Tuesday 28 January 2014 27 Rabial I 1435 - Volume 18 Number 5958 Price: QR2

Call to ease Qatar fetes curbs in setting Dakar Rally up businesses heroes

Business | 17 Sport | 25

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Qatar, Cyprus sign agreements Sisi must run for Soaring shop president: Army CAIRO: Egypt’s top military body yesterday backed its com- mander Abdel Fattah Al Sisi to run for the presidency, which rents hit small he is assured to win after oust- ing the democratically elected leader in July. Sisi, wildly popular for over- throwing president Mohammed businesses Mursi, is now expected to resign as army chief and put himself for- ward as a candidate in the election scheduled to be held by mid-April. Call for government intervention AFP See also page 7 DOHA: Shop and warehouse Abdullah told Al Sharq that due rents are going through the roof to escalating shop and ware- Syria peace talks with small businesses urging the house rents, commodities of The Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held talks with Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades yesterday. government to intervene and mass and daily use were becom- The two leaders witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in education, a coopera- restrict rent increases. ing dearer. tion agreement in the legal, an MoU in energy and another MoU in cooperation in sea water desalination and in deadlock In some areas of Doha, shop “It is high time the govern- treatment of wastewater and re-use. rents have multiplied nearly three ment intervened and introduced GENEVA: Syrian peace talks in times in the past couple of years, a law limiting the extent by Geneva were deadlocked yester- while warehouse rents in the which a landlord can raise the day over the issue of transferring Industrial Area have soared up rent of a shop or warehouse,” MPHC shares to be power, but neither side walked to an incredible 16 times in the said Abdullah. “A law is the only Bahrain to join unified away and the UN said the ques- past several years. solution I see,” he added, claiming tion of a political transition would Acute shortages of shops, ware- that in some areas commercial listed on Feb 26 be back on the table. UN mediator houses and office space for petty property owners were literally Lakhdar Brahimi admitted that trades in Doha is prompting com- doubling rents overnight. DOHA: State-backed Mesaieed tourist visa system talks “haven’t produced much”. mercial property owners to raise He said many petty trad- Petrochemical Holding AFP rents unjustifiably. ers wound up their businesses Company (MPHC) which DOHA: Bahrain is ready to join a said the idea of a unified tourist See also page 10 According to Mohamed Al because they could not afford to floated a low-priced initial pub- unified tourist visa system which visa system for the GCC was first Ashrafi, a businessman, the rent pay exorbitant shop and ware- lic offering (IPO) for Qatari presently Qatar, Oman and mooted by Oman’s private sector. Tunisia adopts of a 16 square metre shop used house rents. Then, there are sev- citizens and select local institu- Dubai are part of. People with Oman then inked a tourism to be QR7,000 a month. “Imagine eral of them who went bankrupt tions on December 31, 2013, is to a tourist visa for any of the three cooperation agreement with new constitution that now that rent is QR25,000.” and landed in jail, said Abdullah. be listed on the Qatari bourse countries that are members of Qatar (in 2002). The unified visa He said that in the Industrial Al Ashrafi said that skyrocket- (Qatar Exchange) on February the unified visa regime can visit for Qatar, Oman and Dubai is TUNIS: Tunisia adopted a new Area warehouses that were ing rents were hitting small busi- 26 after the company has all or any of these countries. valid for three weeks and can be constitution yesterday, a big stride available on monthly rent of nesses hard and that, in turn, announced allotment of shares The Consultative Authority of extended for another week. towards democracy in the country QR5,000 until a few years ago, would affect the inflow of foreign to successful subscribers. the GCC states is slated to meet In 2005, rules were amended that began the Arab Spring revo- now command up to an incred- investment and eventually it is The announcement is likely to in Kuwait on February 5 to discuss and the visa was allowed to be lutions and has largely avoided the ible QR80,000. Qatar’s economy that would be be made on January 31, Al Sharq the entry of other GCC states into further extended for a month chaos and violence now plaguing These are the days of skyrock- impacted. reported. Subscription to the issue the unified tourist visa system. after being initially extended for the neighbours it inspired. eting shop and warehouse rents That is why it is necessary for which is expected to be heavily The system was originally mooted a week. Tunisia’s charter has been and the trend has forced many the government to take urgent oversubscribed closed on January for all the six member-states of Al Khanji said people in the praised as one of the most pro- small businesses out of the mar- measures to keep spiralling rents 21. The banks that have received the GCC, and the remaining GCC want all the member-states gressive in the Arab world, desig- ket. “Many businesses have closed under check by introducing a law subscription applications for the countries are expected to join the to be part of a unified visa regime nating Islam as the state religion down because they were not able that restricts landlords from hik- IPO would likely intimate successful regime in the near future. as Dubai is set to host World Expo but protecting freedom of belief to bear the rising burden of ing rentals beyond a certain per- subscribers about the allotment of The head of the Federation 2020 and Qatar is lined up the and sexual equality. rents,” said Al Ashrafi. centage, said Abdullah. shares through SMS on January 31. of GCC Chambers of Commerce coveted 2022 World Cup Football. REUTERS Another businessman, Salem THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA and Industry, Khalil Al Khanji, THE PENINSULA See also page 7 TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 HOME 02 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HMC health symposium steps up Orientalist Museum academic exchange with Japan charity stall at MIA Scientists, doctors discuss re-engineering of tissues to fight illnesses Park Bazaar on Sat DOHA: Orientalist Museum Made from art collateral used is hosting a charity benefit at in the Heritage of Art Diplomacy MIA Park Bazaar on Saturday. exhibition (at Museum of Islamic As part of its Afrehom Art in 2013), the limited edition project, the museum will sell cushions come in two sizes and tote bags and cushions made feature original art material from recycled art material at a used in the exhibition. market stall. Proceeds will go to Cushions will be available Qatar Charity’s Blind Children for sale alongside a selection of initiative. limited edition tote bags created Afrehom, which means ‘make from the Art of Travel exhibi- them happy’ in Arabic, looks at tion collateral. ways to recycle art material for Sorore said the project “brings charity. recycled graphic banners to Initiated by Kabir Abdulrazak, life. It’s a creative way to re-use the museum’s Head of materials and raise money for Operations, and Fatema Sorore, Qatar Charity. the museum’s Head of Events, “Plus each bag and cushion is the project raised over QR12,000 unique. You won’t find another last year through the sale of tote one like it,” Sorore added. bags. The project was so success- Orientalist Museum market ful that the museum has added stall will be open from noon to customised cushions to its list of 7pm. recycled art material. THE PENINSULA Experts from Hamad Medical Corporation and Osaka University pose for the camera during the symposium.

DOHA: A health symposium from the exchange of ideas on tis- forefront of applying the therapy, surgery department as it is con- held in Doha has stepped up sue re-engineering, which offers we are delighted to be collaborat- stantly looking forward to finding QOC to host Islamic Triathlon academic exchange between possible treatments for patients ing with Osaka University to hold innovative treatments for patients scientists and doctors in Qatar with heart failure, lung cancer the symposium that will pave the with heart troubles. and Japan. and illnesses of the pancreas, way for us to bring this top class, “In Qatar and most of the Championship in March Hamad Medical Corporation liver, eyes, and bones, requiring cutting-edge scientific technology countries there is a significant (HMC) and Osaka University, active muscle cells. to Qatar.” percentage of heart patients DOHA: Qatar Olympic and Tournament Director, said Japan, hosted the first Qatar- Ahead of the symposium, Dean Yasufumi Kaneda of who have end stage heart failure Committee (QOC) will organ- registration is open for partici- Japan Symposium on Tissue Japanese Ambassador Shingo Osaka University said, “We are where patients either require ise the 15th edition of the pants from Qatar, GCC and mem- Regenerative in HMC’s Heart Tsuda said, “I am delighted that very pleased to be collaborating heart transplantation or a ven- prestigious Islamic Triathlon ber countries of Islamic Solidarity Hospital. we have been invited to collabo- with HMC on this exciting sym- tricular device (a pump planted Championship in March at Sports Federation (ISSF). It brought together eminent rate with HMC on this sympo- posium. The exchange of knowl- alongside the heart to help the Sealine Beach. An ISSF regulation allows par- international speakers in the sium in Qatar, which bears such edge and research is critical to heart function properly). It will hold the event in col- ticipants from Islamic countries field of tissue re-engineering importance on the future of enable advancements in health- “However, since the majority of laboration with Qatar Shooting to compete, provided they are and local healthcare experts to healthcare. care and we hope that this event the people in Qatar are unwilling and Archery Federation (QSAF), physically fit and pass examina- engage in discussions. Speakers “I hope it is successful for all will be the start of a relationship to donate the hearts of their rela- Qatar Swimming Association tions prescribed by the organising included delegates from Imperial participants and that this will that will produce great results for tives and the ventricular device is (QSA) and Qatar Endurance committee. College, the UK and Bambino further deepen the relationship patients the world over.” very expensive, the heart muscle Committee (QEC). It also stipulates that the Gesù Hospital, Rome. between Qatar and Japan.” Dr Abdulaziz Alkhulaifi, regeneration appears to be a very The organising committee of number of participants should not The two-day symposium which Dr Hanan Al Kuwari, Managing Chairman of the organising attractive prospect,” he added. the event has begun making man- be less than 20 and more than 50, ended yesterday served as a Director, HMC, said, “Tissue re- committee of the symposium The symposium also discussed agerial and technical arrange- QOC said on its website. dynamic platform for HMC sen- engineering is one of the most and Chairman of Cardiothoracic re-engineering tissue and muscle ments in cooperation with QSAF, An ISSF delegation will attend ior physicians, consultants and exciting medical developments Surgery at Heart Hospital, said, cells in eye surgery, pancreatic QSA and QEC. the championship and supervise specialists and other healthcare of the current times and know- “The symposium was particularly surgery, joint surgery and carti- Mohammad Essa Al Fadala, technical and official affairs. organisations in Qatar to benefit ing that Japan has been at the exciting for the cardiothoracic lage repair. THE PENINSULA Head of QOC Activities Section QNA TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 03 US University Fair next month 2,184 Qataris use EVW scheme to visit UK Opportunity for students to have direct interaction with representatives DOHA: Over 5,000 GCC citi- hours before travelling. zens, including 2,184 Qataris, The British Ambassador, used the Electronic Waivers Nicholas Hopton, said, “I am (EVW) scheme to travel to the very pleased that so many Qataris UK since its launch early this have already used the scheme. As month, the British embassy the number of Qataris using the said yesterday. EVW is expected to increase, we The scheme allows holders of encourage everyone to complete Qatari, Emirati (the UAE) and the online form with 100 per cent Omani passports to travel to the accuracy to ensure smooth access UK without a visa. to the UK.” “The scheme is proving to be Matt Heath, Regional Director extremely popular as travellers for UK Visas and Immigration, are no longer required to sub- said: “We are delighted by the mit fingerprints or pay a visa uptake and interest in EVW. To fee before travelling to the UK. ensure travellers enjoy a straight- Already 2,184 Qataris, 1,948 forward journey, we encourage Emiratis and 1,369 Omanis have them to check their EVW docu- completed an EVW, however not ment against their passport as everyone has understood how the soon as they have completed it. system works,” the embassy said “If an error is identified, it is in a statement. simple to rectify, you complete a When completing an EVW, the new EVW. Those who travel fre- traveller is required to enter their quently, at short notice or regu- Parents and students taking part in the Linden Middle East fair. name as it appears in their pass- larly change their travel plans are port, this must include all names advised to apply for a multi-entry DOHA: The US University these institutions and gather panel discussions this season. private colleges. and the spelling must match that visitor visa or longer-term visa Fair will be held next month in important information about The presentations are designed The range of academic pro- in the passport. rather than an EVW. This offers Doha bringing a large number degree options, the application to provide valuable information grammes at these schools is The EVW must also state more flexibility and can last up to of representatives from US col- process and possible scholarship on a variety of topics such as also extensive with degrees in which plane the person will be 10 years,” he added. leges and universities. opportunities. choosing a university, essay writ- business, engineering, sciences, travelling on, at what time and The online EVW application The fair will be held on The fair is free and open to the ing as well as to answer a wide health fields, fine arts and liberal what day. The EVW is valid for system has been upgraded this February 15, from 5pm to 8pm public, but students who register range of applicant questions. arts. travel on that flight. It is not pos- week to better highlight to travel- at the Doha Marriott. online at linden.trcrent.com will For details on these sessions, To learn more about partici- sible to use it for a flight the day lers that their name must exactly The event is hosted by Linden have instant access to the fair, please visit www.lindentours.com pating universities and register later and if someone needs to match the name appearing in Educational Services. giving them more time to inter- University representatives for the fair, students can visit change their travel details, then their passport and the EVW is Prospective students will have act with university officials. visiting Doha this year repre- www.lindentours.com or www. they must complete a new EVW, only valid for the journey stated. the opportunity to speak face-to- Additionally, Linden is expand- sent a variety of schools from facebook.com/LindenFairs. and this must be done at least 48 THE PENINSULA face with representatives from ing its programme to include large, public universities to small, THE PENINSULA

Ooredoo covers entire Qatar with 4G services by activating 500th tower

DOHA: Ooredoo reached a milestone and download files, no matter how big packages, starting from QR15 per week that the service would be affordable, and evolving the service to make it acces- in its nationwide roll-out of the coun- they are. The rise of 4G has created a for Hala customers, and including new accessible and innovative in the way it sible on a broad range of 4G-enabled try’s first 4G services, with the activa- spike in data usage across Qatar, as peo- Shahry Smart Packs, which offer bundle delivered Qatar’s fastest mobile Internet. devices. Ooredoo is continuing to launch tion of its 500th LTE site in Qatar this ple download films, educational material of minutes, SMS, mobile data and access We have lived up to our promise, with network enhancements for 4G to improve week. Activating the 500th site means and mobile apps faster now. It has also to 4G Key for QR175 per month. the addition of the 500th tower demon- indoor and outdoor performance, and that the 4G service range now extended delivered an improvement to custom- The 4G network supports maximum strating that we have created a nation- reduce service interruptions, which to cover the whole of Qatar. ers using 3G and 2G networks, as the speed as high as 100 Mbps, and on aver- wide service that is unique in Qatar,” said will roll out throughout 2014. It is also The 4G service enables customers to migration to 4G has freed up space on age, offering speed is three-to-six times Waleed Al Sayed, Chief Operating Officer. working with device operators, including enjoy the best mobile broadband Internet the legacy networks. faster than the 3G network. Since its launch in April 2013, Ooredoo Apple and BlackBerry, to accelerate the speeds, the smoothest browsing experi- Ooredoo’s 4G service is available for “When we launched the trial phase of has expanded 4G coverage in record time, pace at which the most popular devices in ence and the capacity to send, upload postpaid and prepaid customers with 4G in 2012, we promised our customers increasing the number of sites five-fold Qatar can access 4G. THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 04 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME

Emir meets Algerian minister Premier receives officials

The Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani received Algerian Deputy The Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani yesterday met Jordan’s Director of the Public Security Defence Minister and Chief of Staff of the People’s National Army, General Department, Lt. Gen. Tawfiq Hamid Tawalbeh and discussed cooperation. He also held separate talks with the Belarus President’s Assistant for Ahmed Qayed Saleh, and his delegation at the Emiri Diwan yesterday. National Security Affairs, Viktor Lukashenko (right) and his delegation.

PM meets Cyprus President DOHA: The Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Respiratory diseases constitute Khalifa Al Thani yesterday met the President of Cyprus, Nicos Anastasiades, who is in Doha on a several days’ visit. They discussed relations and means of bolstering them as well as issues of common interest. The President arrived in Doha on Sunday. 12pc of total cases at HMC Tunisia constitution hailed

DOHA: Qatar welcomed the ratification of the Emergency consultant calls for study on their impact on public health, economy new Tunisian constitution by its constituent assembly. A Foreign Ministry official told Qatar DOHA: Respiratory diseases con- In the US, the cost of respiratory this year. This system has been imple- included in the first and second cat- News Agency yesterday that the step was historic stitute about 12 percent of the total illnesses is estimated at $17bn to $25bn mented in Al Khor Hospital emer- egories are considered urgent. and will have great impact on Tunisia’s security cases at the Emergency Department annually. gency. This will end paper work and “ Sometimes people with a simple and stability. The source added that it was also an of Hamad Medical Corporation Internal diseases constitute a high the department will be linked electron- tooth pain comes to our department important step towards establishing democratic (HMC) but despite their high preva- 16 percent of the total cases at the ically with other emergency sections in despite that we don’t have a section to institutions that guarantee basic rights. lence, no proper studies have been department while accidents and inju- the country. treat them,” said Al Noaimi. conducted about their impact on ries are reported in significant num- Al Noaimi said the department is He said the high quality of treatment Council holds session public health and the economy, bers — about five percent. still overburdened with non-emergency as well as examinations is the major according to an expert at HMC. Al Noaimi said the department is cases. factor that draws more people to the DOHA: The Advisory Council yesterday held “Respiratory diseases are very one of the most crowded emergency About 70 to 80 percent of the cases department. its weekly session under Speaker Mohammad common in Qatar but no clear data is units in the world, with 1,200 to 1,500 do not need emergency care and can There are 12 rooms for MERS and bin Mubarak Al Khulaifi. It reviewed the decree available about their prevalence and visitors daily. be treated in a primary health centre. respiratory infections. law No. 13 for 2013 amending some provisions economic cost,” Dr Saad Abdul Fattah “According to international stand- Communicating with expat labour- “Daily we see risky viral infections of the decree law No. 5 for 1965 on the identity Al Noaimi, consultant at the depart- ards, any emergency unit with more ers not familiar with Arabic language and we isolate them for laboratory cards and decided to refer it to the Internal and ment told a local Arabic daily. than 400 visitors daily is considered is also a problem for many doctors. tests. We are very concerned about Foreign Affairs Committee. It also discussed He said the cost of treatment and as crowded,” said Al Noaimi. The department has introduced a MERS because the mortality rate in the decree law No. 14 for 2013 to abolish the medicine and the lost working hours He said services at the department triaging system to identify the most such cases is high — 30 to 40 percent law of public bodies and institutions promul- due to the disease have to be taken into would become faster, when it moves urgent cases. The cases are classified worldwide,” said Al Noaimi. gated by Law No. 26 for 2004, and the decree consideration. to an electronic system by the end of into five categories and only those THE PENINSULA law No. 15 for 2013 amending some provisions of Law No. 4 for 2008 on rents of real estates and decided to refer the decree laws to the Legal and Legislative Affairs Committee. Total Research Centre applies for second patent HMC home care services DOHA: Total Research Centre Energy. This lab can provide differ- integrity…), this new innovation could industry. But these new techniques DOHA: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) Qatar (TRC-Q) has applied for ent analytical measurements. The be applied to any complex mixture also present an interest for other is preparing to launch home care services for a new patent, in the domain of most commonly used is the so called analysed by gas chromatography (fra- industries, including the space indus- children with complications and needed long- Geochemistry. This was the second “Gas Chromatography” method. Such grances, environmental applications, try. No doubt that this very high level term care. The service being implemented at application made by Total in 2013. a technique allows for instance to space measurements). research contributes to a high visibility an experimental basis will be officially launched For addressing the issue of shrinking determine the accurate and detailed The inventor, Dr Daniel Dessort, is of the Qatar Science and Technology soon. Children on wheelchair and seeking con- an instrument down to the size of a big analytical composition of complex a project leader in organic geochemis- Park and to the knowledge based econ- tinued medical care will benefit from it, Al Sharq matchbox without altering its perform- mixtures such as oils and conden- try at TRC-Q. He recently applied for omy which is promoted in the Qatar reported. The service will be extended to children ances, the TRC-Q recently invented the sates. The innovation allows the “Gas another patent related to an innovative National Vision 2030.” with incurable diseases. Special home care units “Mini-Cube Gas Chromatograph”. The Chromatography” equipment to be method and software for automating The TRC-Q in QSTP works on are likely to be introduced at HMC hospitals and process for miniaturizing the equip- miniaturized, without any perform- the characterization of complex fossil three main projects: Carbonate healthcare experts will visit homes. The Home ment uses state-of-the-art advanced ance alteration. molecules in petroleum. Petroleum Reservoirs, Metrology and Healthcare Services were introduced at HMC in technologies for manufacturing the “Mini-Cube Gas Chromatograph” Philippe Julien, TRC-Q Director, Petrochemicals. In the Carbonate 2009, and are being implemented in three stages. main parts of the new “Mini-Cube” can be used on site, and also in labora- said: “This was the second TRC-Q Reservoirs project, Total works on two Services are initially implemented for the eld- instrument. tories, for petroleum, medical, environ- application for a new patent in 2013. main subjects: Acid Stimulation (used erly. The second phase will cover children need- TRC-Q has a geochemical labora- mental and space applications. Initially There will also be others in 2014. We to increase the production of oil and ing long-term care and the third patients with tory which already works for Qatar developed for addressing petroleum are currently developing very innova- gas wells) and geochemistry. incurable condition. THE PENINSULA/QNA Petroleum, Qatargas and Dolphin issues (exploration, production, well tive technologies for the Oil and Gas THE PENINSULA New reward programme for Mashreq Platinum credit card holders

DOHA: Mashreq Qatar, across Qatar, including one of the region’s leading Marks & Spencer, financial institutions, has StarLink, Centre Point, 51 unveiled a new rewards East and much more. programme offer- “We continue to offer ing Mashreq Platinum unparalleled products Credit Card holders up that really compliment to 50 percent off on their our customer aspirations. bills at over 50 outlets At Mashreq, our focus on across Qatar. innovation ensures that The Mashreq Privileges our products cater to offers discounts of between varied lifestyles and pref- 10 percent and 50 percent erences,” said Niranjan across restaurants, spas Mendonca, Head of Retail and recreation facilities. Banking at Mashreq Some of the offers are, Qatar. two for one main course at Mashreq Platinum Majlis, Rocca, the Grill & Credit Cards also offer free Isaan at the Grand Hyatt, travel insurance, providing two for one main course at accident and emergency Salsa, Taj Rasoi and Asia medical coverage as well Live at the Marriott Doha, as compensation on flight 20 percent off at Angsana delays and lost luggage. Spa, Wyndham Grand Other benefits include Regency, 20 percent off AAA Gold membership on spa treatments, Grand for 24-hour roadside Heritage Doha Hotel and assistance, a buy one get Spa and 20 percent off on one free voucher book- corporate rates with Qatar let containing QR5,000 International Tours. worth of discounts, com- The programme also plimentary access to the includes a feature where VIP Oryx Lounge at Doha customers can earn International Airport and rewards points on each one guest as well as free transaction. Al Maha Meet & Greet These rewards points Service at the Doha arriv- can be used for free shop- als terminal. ping at partner outlets THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 05 SDC invites applications Marriage hall rentals go for interest-free loans

DOHA: Aiming at helping approving a minimum of 50 loans Qatari entrepreneurs with in 2014. innovative ideas set up busi- This is part of SDC’s plan to up to QR150,000 per night nesses, Social Development support the development of the Centre (SDC), a member of private sector in Qatar, in line Qatar Foundation, yesterday with National Vision 2030. ‘Escalating expenses responsible for late marriages in Qatari community’ invited applications to offer Hamad Al Saffar, a specialist interest-free financial assist- in entrepreneurial projects at DOHA: This being the mar- a marriage hall in a hotel for a better option earlier as they Abdullah, said the government ance (50 percent of project’s SDC,said: “Rasameel fund aims riage season for Qataris, the QR30,000. worked out to be less expensive, is building many wedding halls capital) to eligible candidates to provide a full range of services issue being hotly debated in “He went enquiring about the said another national, Hadi Al across the country and they could under its ‘Rasameel Fund’ for aspiring Qatari entrepreneurs their community these days is rent in the same hotel recently, Marri. be used by nationals at nominal services. who want to start their own busi- how expensive it is to rent wed- and they quoted QR130,000 for But that option is out now rent. According to a statement, ness and need funding support to ding halls. the same hall,” Al Minhali told since one needs about QR180,000 “The government should has- The programme offers a range achieve their goals. We at SDC Marriage hall rents have gone the local Arabic daily Al Raya. to hold marriage parties in tents, ten up and build the halls as soon of support services that include are proud of our continuous up to QR150,000 a night, and “This is unbelievable. The he added. as possible,” said Al Abdullah. providing flexible financial loans efforts to provide aid and support since one must book not one but increase is unjustifiable. Wedding In some GCC countries, people It is foolish to spend QR300,000 without interest, guidance and to Qatari entrepreneurs through two halls — one for men, the other hall rents are back-breaking. They have begun holding simple mar- (as rent for halls) for just a few counselling services, training our many different programs for women — one must spend swell marriage costs which these riage parties early in the evening hours, said Naji Al Nuaimi, a services, and marketing support that focus on training, profes- QR300,000 on marriage venue days average up to QR900,000 at and serve only tea, coffee and citizen. for new projects. But under the sional and business development, alone. the end of honeymoon. refreshments to guests to cut Psychologist Dr Batool Khalifa funding scheme, the applicants as well as empowerment.” Hall rentals come in packages “No wonder that young men costs, he said. “We should emulate said escalating marriage costs must provide the remaining 50 The Rasameel fund was estab- as decoration and light refresh- are forced to rely on bank loans to such examples and economise,” were responsible for late mar- percent of the project’s capita. lished in 2003 to provide funding ments are included. get married and they get trapped said Al Marri. riages in the community. People In 2013, Rasameel provided support to enterprising Qataris Food for banquets is supplied in vicious and never-ending debt,” “Exorbitant marriage costs are take loans from banks and are loans to a total of 32 ambitious intending to pioneer new initia- by caterers and they must be paid he added. to blame for many young men and unable to repay. This causes social entrepreneurs. tives and business ideas. It has separately. Tents that are erected in open women remaining unmarried and psychological problems for The programme aims to been designed to help entre- A citizen, Abdul Rahman Al grounds with permission from until late.” them in the long run. increase approved loan applica- preneurs achieve stability and Minhali, said his brother rented the municipality concerned were Yet another Qatari, Nasser Al THE PENINSULA tions to 300, training and loan profitability. services to 200 applications and THE PENINSULA Vodafone launches Tasweeq hosts appreciation reception for associates

DOHA: Qatar all our business associates ‘World of Prizes’ International Petroleum from various industries. As DOHA: Vodafone, yesterday, PlayStation 4, Xbox ONE or Mini Marketing Company we enter our sixth year of launched the second edition iPads. (Tasweeq) honoured its operations, we look forward of ‘World of Prizes’ competi- Weekly prizes include cash business associates for to continuing and improv- tion which will stretch up to prizes worth QR20,000 or their support and trust in ing our business relations,” 12th April 2014, offering daily, QR50,000 or a brand new its business. said Saad Al Kuwari, Chief weekly and grand prize draws Mercedes-Benz C180 depending The ‘Appreciation Executive Officer, Tasweeq. to the customers. on the prize announced each week Reception’ at Qatar He thanked the Minister To participate, customers for the highest points’ scorer dur- National Convention Centre of Energy and Industry will need to opt in by sending ing that period. was attended by top execu- and Tasweeq Chairman H ‘WORLD’ to 97774. Customers Vodafone will also hold special tives from national and E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh opting in will directly receive select Wednesday prizes com- international organisations. Al Sada for support and points as a reward for opting in prising luxury smart phones and Tasweeq was represented guidance. the competition. select Friday draws on QR20,000 by executive directors and Tasweeq’s corporate Customers will then need to cash prize for the highest points’ their teams. video was displayed for the start answering questions to earn scorer in the week. “With Tasweeq strategi- first time and guests were more points for the chance to win The lucky winner of the final cally positioned globally as treated to a performance a valuable prize. Cost of sending World of Prizes’ Grand draw will Qatar’s sole marketer of by the Maqam Ensemble one SMS is QR5. drive away with a Mercedes-Benz regulated and non-regulated of Qatar Philharmonic Daily draws will include GLK. Tasweeq CEO Saad Al Kuwari addressing the reception. products, we have received Orchestra. electronic goods such as TVs, THE PENINSULA unwavering support from THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 HOME 06 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com Central Station to Qatar Brazil 2014 Year open Qatar Brazil 2014 cinema series of Culture opens at MIA

DOHA: The Gulf premiere of and a BAFTA. Walter Salles’ Central Station Abdulaziz Al Khater, DFI ‘We Speak Football’ to celebrate both countries’ passion for sport (1998) will open the Qatar Chief Executive Officer, said: Brazil 2014 Cinema Showcase “We have had a very successful — a series of monthly screen- Qatar Japan 2012 and Qatar UK ings by Doha Film Institute 2013 and it’s exciting to continue (DFI) in partnership with the cultural journey with Brazil Qatar Museums Authority in 2014. (QMA). “Through cinema, we learn so Central Station will be shown much about other cultures and at Museum of Islamic Art the world around us. (MIA) auditorium on Thursday “We are delighted to take and Friday at 7pm. local audiences on a jour- The series will present clas- ney into the Brazilian culture sic and contemporary films that through the eyes of some of its highlight the rich diversity of most acclaimed filmmakers and Brazil’s cinematic history and continue to build on our aim to bring audiences unforgetta- enhance film appreciation in the ble works from internationally community,” Al Khater added. renowned directors. An official at the Office of Central Station follows Dora, Strategic Cultural Relations, a jaded retiree, who writes let- QMA, said: “Following the suc- ters for the illiterate at Rio de cessful Years of Culture Qatar Janeiro’s Central Station. Japan 2012 and Qatar UK 2013, When a terrible accident the office and DFI are looking befalls one of her custom- forward to celebrating the Year ers, Dora’s life is dramatically of Culture Qatar Brazil 2014 changed as she takes nine-year- with a selection of inspirational old Josue under her wing and films to be showcased periodi- accompanies him on the search cally throughout the year at for his long-lost father. MIA.” The beloved multi-awarded The opening night begins film is a moving tale of the at 6pm on Thursday with a harshness of life and the kind- reception. ness of the human heart. Tickets are on sale at www. FROM LEFT: Tadeu Valadares, Brazilian Ambassador, former Brazilian footballer Arthur Antunes Coimbra (Zico), the Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage It won the Golden Bear for dohafilminstitute.com and MIA H E Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari and Mohmmed bin Ahmed Alhayki, Qatari Ambassador to Brazil, pose for a picture during the launch of Qatar Best Film at the 1998 Berlin DFI Ticket Outlet. Brazil 2014 Year of Culture at Museum of Islamic Arts yesterday. SHAIVAL DALAL International Film Festival They are priced at QR35 for where it had its world premiere, general public and QR25 for DOHA: The Qatar Brazil 2014 Qatar’s embassy in Brasilia, Brazil represent the Qatar Brazil 2014 month between design students as well as other international students. Year of Culture formally opened on December 18 last year. Qatar’s Year of Culture as its goodwill at universities in Qatar and prizes, including a Golden Globe THE PENINSULA to a vibrant performance of Ministry of Culture, Arts and ambassador. Brazil, hosted in partnership centuries old Brazilian Capoeira Heritage is a key partner in each “Qatar and Brazil share great with the National Museum of martial art yesterday at the Year of Culture, and sent four art- sporting ambitions, and I am hon- Qatar. Students from Virginia Museum of Islamic Art (MIA). ists to attend the Qatar National oured to be a part of this great Commonwealth University in Four-member Capoeira Dubai Day celebrations in Brasilia. international exchange which Qatar and Centro Universitário troupe presented an entertain- “We are proud of the legacies will unveil many cultural events Belas Artes de São Paulo in Brazil ing show which combined dance, built and partnerships created by unique to both of our nations,” will sketch and create garments acrobatics and music. the Years of Culture and eagerly said Al Gharafa Head Coach that will be exhibited in both Qatar Brazil 2014 is the third await a year of exploring shared Arthur Antunes Coimbra, better countries, and one winner from Year of Culture organised by passions, talents and cultural known as Zico. each will travel as a representa- the Qatar Museums Authority links with our friends in Brazil,” One of the major events of tive of their university. (QMA) following the success of said Qatari Ambassador to Brazil this Year of Culture is We Speak In March, QMA will collaborate Qatar Japan 2012 and Qatar UK Mohammed Al Hayki. Football which celebrates Qatar with the Crossway Foundation to 2013. Qatar Japan 2012 engaged “Our peoples and societies are and Brazil’s shared passion for host again Create and Inspire, a nearly 80,000 people to its 33 very proud of their distinct cul- football. Developed by the Qatar competition that identifies and activities while Qatar UK 2013 tural heritages. Olympic and Sport Museum and trains talented youth in Qatar, saw more than 350,000 people in “At the same time, they are the National Football Museum Saudi Arabia and the UAE. over 90 activities in both Qatar convinced of the need for support- (Manchester, UK), We Speak One of QMA’s flagship exhibi- and the UK. ing the indispensable dialogue of Football is an international exhi- tions, Pearls, will be on display “We welcome the opportunity cultures, a fruitful exercise that bition that will travel around the at Museu de Arte Brasileira- to build on the strong relationship fosters peace and harmony,” globe for the next nine years, with Fundação Armando Alvares Qatar and Brazil share. Qatar said Brazilian Ambassador its first stop in Joao Pessoa, Brazil Penteado (MAB-FAAP) in Sao Brazil 2014 will celebrate the Hildebrando Tadeu Valadares. in May this year and its final show Paulo, Brazil from July 18 until people of our two nations, show- Qatar and Brazil have enjoyed in Doha in 2022. September 28. casing the finest we have to offer close cultural and educational ties The exhibition will be an Among other activities for the in the fields of culture, art, sport in recent years with the launch of immersive, audio-visual rich and early part of this year are the and education,” said Minister of several initiatives and high-level interactive experience celebrat- Brazil Cinema Showcase organ- Culture, Arts and Heritage H visits exploring future collabora- ing players, coaches, and fans. We ised monthly in partnership with E Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al tion in those areas. Both nations Speak Football exemplifies sport Doha Film Institute and an exhi- Kuwari. This Year of Culture was share a passion for football that as a common ground for cultural bition by Brazilian photographer A scene from the film Central Station. initially announced at a grand will guide several activities in the discovery and exchange. Caio Vilela to open at Katara Art pre-launch event during the cele- upcoming year. A fashion competition called Centre on February 15. brations of Qatar National Day at “I am very excited to Kheit will be organised next THE PENINSULA

Jaidah flyover to HEC Paris holds workshop for QLC close partially in two phases DOHA: The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has announced the partial, tem- porary closure of the Jaidah flyover in Musheireb area from tomorrow. The closure will be in two phases to complete renova- tion and maintenance works on the flyover. The east bound lane of the flyo- ver going towards Musheireb area will be closed from tomorrow for two weeks. Motorists coming from Jabor Bin Ahmed Intersection (Ramada Signal) and Salwa Road will have to use the ground level through Musheireb interchange located below the flyover. In the second phase, the east bound lane Participants attending one of the decision-making rounds. going towards the Musheireb area will be open and the west bound DOHA: HEC Paris, the lead- participants to undergo decision- The main objective of exchanges lane of the flyover going towards ing global business school, con- making rounds using NegoSim, a between action and knowledge Ramada Signal and the Industrial ducted a business simulation computer-assisted business simu- was to help participants adopt a Area will be closed for two weeks workshop for Qatar Leadership lation, as a guiding thread. broad view of management and starting February 15. Centre (QLC). Over three days, participants migrate from excellence in day- Vehicles heading to Salwa Road The centre provides customised were required to manage their to-day management to a leader’s and the Industrial Area will be professional training to develop own company according to a new perspective. required to use the ground level Qatari leadership potential. strategy. During decision-making “This programme provided a through Musheireb Interchange. Senior managers from govern- sessions, professors supported unique learning opportunity for The maintenance works will ment institutions and businesses groups by stimulating group participants to address challenges include replacing the asphalt participated in the Current thinking and answering questions. and experience paradoxes mod- layer over the flyover and upgrad- and Future Executive Leaders The programme highlighted ern leaders have to live with,” said ing the structure to accommodate Programme. excellence in day-to-day opera- Professor Laoucine Kerbache, the increasing traffic in the area. . The workshop was developed tions, value creation, partnership, Chief Executive Officer and Signs have been installed in the by HEC Paris and implemented and group work in three fields Academic Dean of HEC Paris in area to give clear directions to the by Professors Alain Roux and modern managers have to master: Qatar. commuters, Ashghal said. Corey Phelps and it required all strategy, finance and leadership. THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 MIDDLE EAST www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 07 Tunisia adopts new constitution Technocrat caretaker government to lead until new vote; Ban Ki-moon calls new basic law a milestone

TUNIS: Tunisia adopted a “It is the first time we have by the army and jailed, and his new constitution yesterday, a been so united since the revolu- Muslim Brotherhood movement big stride towards democracy tion,” said Asma Habaib, a young declared a terrorist organisation. in the country that began the bank worker in central Tunis. “It Egyptians approved their own Arab Spring revolutions and is like another revolution.” new constitution this month, but has largely avoided the chaos One of the most secular nations the country is still beset by politi- and violence now plaguing the in the Arab world, Tunisia strug- cal violence as army chief General neighbours it inspired. gled after its 2011 revolution Abdel Fattah al-Sisi pushes for- After years under autocrat with divisions over the role of ward a transition plan that is Zine Al Abidine Ben Ali, Tunisia’s Islam and the rise of Islamist expected to lead to him running charter has been praised as one of ultra-conservatives. for the presidency. the most progressive in the Arab Islamist party Ennahda won Tunisia’s new premier Jomaa world, designating Islam as the the most seats in parliament, but has plenty of challenges to secure state religion but protecting free- the assassination of two opposi- stability before the elections in a dom of belief and sexual equality. tion leaders last year pitched the country where many complain Parliament erupted in celebra- country into crisis. about the high cost of living and tions after the official signing of Increasing deadlock in a lack of economic opportunities. the constitution. Lawmakers Tunisia, and the Egyptian army’s Islamist militants have been a approved it on Sunday evening, deposing of its Islamist president growing threat in Tunisia, which ending months of deadlock that in July, eventually prompted a shares a porous border with had threatened to undo Tunisia’s compromise between Ennahda’s Libya, where al Qaeda-linked transition. chief Rached Ghannouchi and militants have sought refuge. A “This is an exceptional day the opposition. suicide bombing at a Tunisian for Tunisia, where we celebrate Divisions are still present, but beach resort late last year showed the victory over dictatorship. Tunisia’s leaders, heavily reliant on its vulnerability. The government and the opposi- tourism for its foreign income, and International lenders also tion have won, Tunisia has won,” with no tradition of violence or mili- want Tunisia to curb public President Moncef Marzouki told tary interventions, opted to battle spending on subsidies on fuel the assembly after signing. From Left: Tunisia’s National Assembly President Mustapha Ben Jaafar, President Moncef Marzouki and outgoing at the ballot box, not on the street. and basic goods to control the The small North African coun- Prime Minister Ali Larayedh after signing the country’s new constitution in Tunis yesterday. Following that example will be tough budget deficit. Protests broke try’s steady progress contrasts for its North African neighbours. out recently over a tax increase, sharply with turmoil in Libya Two years after its own Nato- forcing the government to roll and Egypt, whose people followed cabinet that will govern until Hours before Sunday’s approval Ben Ali official, are expected to backed revolt toppled autocratic back the measure. Tunisia in ousting their veteran elections. After months of crisis, of the constitution, new prime battle for the presidency. leader Muammar Gaddafi, neigh- “The adoption of a new con- leaders in 2011. Tunisia’s transition got back on minister Jomaa named techno- In the National Assembly and bouring Libya is caught in messy stitution is an important step in Tunisia’s stock market rose track when ruling Islamist party crats with international experi- on the street, political divisions transition, with its constitution reducing political uncertainty in 1.7 percent yesterday in a sign of Ennahda agreed to compromise ence to key posts such as finance about the role of Islam were for- undrafted, its transitional parlia- Tunisia,” Fitch Ratings agency investor confidence in the coun- late last year and step down to minister and foreign minister. gotten in the celebrations over a ment still deadlocked and former said in a statement. “But easing try’s stability, with the constitu- make way for a non-political cabi- No election date has been set, constitution that United Nations rebel fighters refusing to disarm. political and social tensions will be tion in place and the formation net of experts, led by former min- but Ennahda and opposition party Secretary- General Ban Ki-moon In Egypt, elected Islamist pres- a long and challenging process.” of a new technocrat caretaker ister Mehdi Jomaa. Nidaa Tounes, headed by a former commended as a “milestone”. ident Mohamed Mursi was ousted REUTERS

Fighting continues Talks on Iran Egypt’s army backs nuclear deal expected in Sisi’s presidential bid New York in Feb UNITED NATIONS/ BRUSSELS: The first round CAIRO: Egypt’s military coun- accuses him of staging a coup and of talks between Iran and six cil has given the army chief, holds him responsible for what world powers on a long-term Field Marshal Abdel Fattah Al it says are widespread human deal for Tehran to curb parts Sisi (pictured), a green light rights abuses in a security crack- of its nuclear programme in to run for president, a security down that has killed nearly 1,000 exchange for a gradually end source said. Islamists. Top Brotherhood lead- to sanctions is expected to take Sisi deposed elected Islamist ers are all in jail. place next month in New York, president Mohamed Mursi in Deputy Prime Minister Ziad Western officials said yesterday. July after mass unrest against his Bahaa El Din, a moderate in the “Waiting for official announce- increasingly arbitrary rule, trig- army-backed government, ten- ment, which should be soon,” a gering political upheaval and fur- dered his resignation yesterday. Western official said about ten- ther street violence in the Arab Bahaa El Din, a lawyer, had tative plans to hold the talks as world’s most populous nation. called for a more inclusive politi- early as mid-February at UN Since then he has become cal process in a country that is headquarters in New York City. hugely popular among Egyptians, growing less tolerant of dissent “One of the reasons it’s moving who see him as a decisive figure by the day. to new York is the UN infrastruc- able to stabilise a country which “A crucial stage of the roadmap ture, similar to Geneva.” has lurched from one crisis to is now over. It required keep- Several Western diplomats, another since a popular uprising ing a unified front and avoiding also speaking on condition of toppled autocrat Hosni Mubarak disputes in order for the nation anonymity, confirmed the official’s in 2011. resignation of the general and his to emerge from constitutional remarks. One senior Western dip- “The top army officials all candidacy announcement, which and economic collapse,” said a lomat told Reuters that the six okayed Sisi running for the pres- is now expected very soon,” said letter posted on Bahaa El Din’s powers were looking at the early idency,” said the source. Sisi is a security official. Facebook page said. part of the week of Feb. 16, though expected to announce his candi- In order for Sisi to contest the “Now that we start a new the talks were unlikely to begin dacy within days. election, he has to resign from his phase where the country is pre- before February 18 due to a US Hours before the top generals post as defence minister and from paring for successive elections holiday. approved Sisi contesting the elec- the military. ... I ask that you accept my Last week the United States tion, the presidency announced he After toppling Mursi, Sisi resignation.” and the European Union began had been promoted to field mar- unveiled a political roadmap that Bahaa El Din is in charge of an following through on promised shal from general, in what secu- promised free and fair elections economic team that includes the sanctions relief for Iran cover- rity officials said was a sign he is in Egypt, which is of great stra- ministers of finance, trade and ing oil exports, trade in precious about to declare his candidacy for tegic importance because of its industry, supply, planning and A rocket is launched by SPLA forces from the back of a military vehicle metals and automotive services the presidency. 1979 peace treaty with Israel and investment, as well as the gover- as part of a nuclear agreement at Mathiang near Bor, South Sudan, yesterday. The government and “The decision was expected control of the Suez Canal. nor of the central bank. signed in November that began rebels in South Sudan traded accusations of breaking a ceasefire deal. and it is the first step before the But the Muslim Brotherhood REUTERS taking effect on January 20, US officials said. In exchange for steps that Tehran had taken to halt its most sensitive nuclear-related activity, the White House said the United Libyan militiaman released in Egypt after diplomats freed States, Britain, France, Germany, Russia, China and the European Union will “follow through on our CAIRO: A Libyan militia com- Their abduction in the Libyan commitment to begin to provide mander was released in Egypt capital illustrated the fragility of the modest relief agreed to with after Egyptian diplomats kid- government control over former Iran.” napped in Tripoli were freed, rebels and militias who two years A US official said Iran was cur- the Libyan ambassador to Cairo ago helped topple Muammar rently exporting about 60 percent told Egyptian state television Gaddafi. less oil than it was two years yesterday. Egypt’s Interior Ministry ago and would be held to those Libyan and Egyptian govern- issued a statement late on Sunday reduced levels. ment officials said there had been saying authorities were examin- Iran is under US, EU and UN no deal to free Shaban Hadia, ing Hadia’s presence in Egypt as Security Council sanctions for also known as Abou Abeida, in his residency permit had expired. refusing to halt uranium enrich- exchange for the diplomats. “It is a completely separate ment and other sensitive atomic “Shaban has been released,” issue from the release of the work that could help it develop Fayez Jibreel told Egyptian Egyptian nationals,” Foreign weapons. Tehran rejects allega- state television, saying Hadia Ministry spokesman Badr tions from Western nations and had been arrested for staying in Abdelatty told Reuters. their allies that it is seeking the Egypt after his residency permit “They are all ok, hopefully they capability to produce nuclear had expired. will come back today on a flight arms, insisting its atomic ambi- Libya’s Deputy Foreign from Tripoli,” Abdelatty said. tions are limited to the peaceful Minister Abdul Razak Al Grady Hadia is expected to travel generation of electricity. announced on Sunday that the to Libya later on Monday, The November 24 interim deal five Egyptian diplomats kid- Alexandria-based security is valid for six months, though it napped last week in response to sources said. can be renewed based on mutual Hadia’s detention had been freed. REUTERS Egyptian diplomats attend a news conference after being released in Tripoli yesterday. agreement. REUTERS TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 08 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

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Cruel siege Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate

ORE than a million people died in the imperial capital of the Soviet Union in a little more than two years — between September 1941 and January 1943. Russia was Myesterday observing the 70th anniversary of the lifting of the Nazi siege of Leningrad. Hitler’s troops lay siege on the city, As talks struggle, Palestinians now called St Petersburg, forcing people into starvation and misery. Russian President Vladimir Putin’s words were revealing: “The courage and heroism of the Soviet people and residents of and Israel assess price of failure Leningrad” should never be forgotten. The former KGB director was speaking at a commemoration of the tragic event that saw German President Jochim Gauck formally regret it by issuing a BY CRISPIAN BALMER Kerry will defy the pessimists and secure warned the aid-dependent Palestinians statement expressing Berlin’s “deep sadness and shame”. at least a framework deal in the coming it might reduce the one billion euros it The German president, who occupies a position of moral VEN as Palestinians and weeks to allow detailed talks to continue hands them each year - crucial budget authority and responsibility going by the country’s tradition, Israelis strive for an elusive beyond the original nine-month dead- support for the Palestinian Authority said that Germany recognises its historical responsibility for the peace deal to end their genera- line, which expires on April 29. But, still in self-rule areas, if they snub Kerry’s suffering inflicted on the people of Leningrad and for the brutal Etions-old conflict, the two sides far apart on so many core issues includ- initiative. are preparing for failure. ing borders, security, the right of return The stakes would also be high if warfare of its soldiers, commandos and SS formations. While contours of an accord have for Palestinian refugees and the future President Barack Obama’s administra- “I tell you and your people that we share the pain for the losses been debated for years, the consequence status of Jerusalem, many Palestinians tion gets into the blame game - but any and sympathise with the survivors who are still suffering from of collapse could take many forms. and Israelis share the view that the talks move to single out Israel would stoke the aftermath of the war,” Gauck wrote in a letter. Putin’s speech US Secretary of State John Kerry are not going anywhere. anger in the staunchly pro-Israel US on the occasion revealed the pain and suffering of hundreds of has cautioned that a breakdown in the “The ongoing negotiations ... are Congress. This risk would mean the thousands of survivors. Revealing that 360,000 civilians were killed talks he has tirelessly promoted for the headed for failure, and will not be $3bn a year in US aid to the Jewish state past six months might lead to a third extended one day after their expiration is likely to be protected. in four months of the siege and underscoring that Britain lost Palestinian uprising. on April 29,” said Mohammed Shtayyeh, Israeli opposition leader Isaac Herzog, almost the same number during the whole war, the Russian leader The Palestinians say they are ready who quit the Palestinian negotiating who heads the dovish Labour party, says — often at loggerheads with the West— made a clever comparison. to shift their battle for an independent team last year in protest at a wave of the threat of EU economic curbs should The siege, which is considered the state on land Israel captured in the 1967 Israeli announcements of new settle- persuade Prime Minister Benjamin Middle East war to the International ment-building in occupied territory. Netanyahu of the need to make the hard The 70th worst in history, made residents of the city so desperate that many were Criminal Court if Since talks started last July, Israel concessions that peace would entail. anniversary of the negotiations has unveiled plans to build some 5,349 However, speaking to foreign report- forced to eat pets, and some even prove fruitless. new homes in the West Bank and East ers last week, Herzog said Israel should the lifting of the resorted to cannibalism. Israel, by con- Jerusalem - land the Palestinians want prepare a “plan B” in case of failure. siege of Leningrad A contrite Germany tried to ease A handful of trast, is pin- for their future state. “In paintbrush mode, plan B can the memories of pain as Putin spoke diplomats remain ning its hopes on The European Union’s ambassador include certain steps that will encour- has an uncanny amid survivors of the siege in his maintaining the to Israel, Lars Faaborg-Andersen, has age settlers to go back home, via leg- hopeful Kerry will status quo - using warned that this rapid expansion means islation and other encouragement, symbolism as native St Petersburg. The Russian defy the pessimists exhaustive secu- Israel is likely to be blamed should the (and) drafting a new map for further protesters in strongman’s brother, who was killed rity measures to negotiations implode. redeployments,” he said, hinting at the during the siege, is buried in a mass and secure at least manage what has “I’m afraid that what will transpire is possibility that Israel may one day uni- former Soviet grave in the city. Germany’s regret, a framework deal in become a low- a situation in which Israel will find itself laterally define its own borders. Republic often observed in the contrition of its the coming weeks to grade, occasional increasingly isolated,” he said last week, This would be highly controversial leaders, deserves to be appreciated. conflict while con- adding that the settlements did not play and very unlikely in the short term. Ukraine fight the allow detailed talks tinuing to expand “in a good way with the public and also However, peace advocates say Israel Sitting on a history from the Second authoritarian to continue beyond settlements in the the political class in Europe”. must roll back its occupation of the World War that is often seen as the original nine- West Bank - but A Dutch pension fund said this month West Bank, home to some 2.5 million regime of Viktor reprehensible by the world, Germany might activate it was divesting from five Israeli banks Palestinians, if it wants to maintain its Yanukovich. doesn’t lose any opportunity to month deadline, unilateral moves because of their work in the settlements, Zionist ideals. express its regret. which expires on of its own if dia- while a large Dutch utility severed ties “If talks fail, for Israel, the demo- The anniversary of the lifting April 29. logue peters out. with Israel’s national water company graphic dynamic will make it impossible Whatever hap- because of its West Bank activities. to preserve its future as a democratic of the siege — observed every year — is specially symbolic today pens, both sides Israelis fear EU displeasure could cost Jewish state,” Kerry said in Davos last when Russia’s neighbour Ukraine is undergoing an upheaval that will suffer a financial fallout if they can- them dear, with their joint trade ties put week, alluding in part to the strong has pitched the authoritarian rule of Viktor Yanukovich against not find a way to divide the land they at 30 billion euros ($41 billion). Palestinian birthrate. thousands of demonstrators who want their country to choose both claim, with the long-established “It could become unpleasant for us Pro-settlement groups claim histori- the road to the European Union. Yanukovich, who has been at the model of a US-driven peace process also because the Europeans seem to be deter- cal and biblical links to the occupied likely to take a significant hit. mined to blame Israel come-what-may,” land. They reject any peace accord that receiving end of the West’s ire over the incarceration of Orange “If this attempt fails, do not expect said Alan Baker, a former legal adviser would oust any of the more than 500,000 Revolution leader Yulia Tymoshenko, chose to sign a Customs the Americans to come back for more to the Israeli Foreign Ministry and ex- settlers from their homes. Union agreement with Russia instead of joining hands with pain ... Not for a very long time,” said a ambassador to Canada. Faced by the growing influence of the Brussels for its Eastern Partnership programme. The Leningrad senior Western diplomat based in Tel “It won’t be crippling, but from a pub- settlers, some Palestinian officials in the siege took place more than 70 years ago. How does the world see Aviv who was not authorised to talk to licity point of view it will have its own West Bank talk of the need for a return the ‘siege’ of Ukrainian capital Kiev where thousands of protesters the media and could not be named. dynamic, which will be negative.” to “resistance” after years of cooperation A handful of diplomats remain hopeful By the same token, the EU has with Israel. REUTERS are braving the bitter cold and police batons? The other side Quote of Road clears for Musharraf the day N ORDINARY times, the medical While the team of army doctors can be before courts before — something If embarrassment and humiliation facilities of the armed forces — and already have been — accused Musharraf is loath to do in this instance. are not above Musharraf in a desper- are touted as second to none. of letting the urge to protect one of Perhaps it is the stakes and the reason- ate bid to avoid a conviction and sen- IIn ordinary cases, a patient their own get in the way of giving a ably open-and-shut nature of the case; tencing, perhaps his advisers should spending his own money can opt for forthright professional judgement, in for the former president did not baulk at try and appeal to his sense of history treatment wherever they like and on truth, the responsibility for this growing submitting himself to the judicial proc- and country. Surely, in focusing solely I ask all Ukrainians whatever they want. But context is fiasco rests squarely on the shoulders ess when it came to cases involving the on Musharraf and just on the events of sometimes everything. The medical of Musharraf. Benazir Bhutto assassination and the November 2007, the state has erred. to go forward, not board constituted by the special court What has become clear is that no assault on Lal Masjid. Still, the contrast But even more surely, the former army convened to try Pervez Musharraf has trick is below the former army chief if is almost impossible to ignore: politi- chief violated the Constitution and to stop and not to walked a medical and legal tightrope in it means delaying the start of his trea- cians submitting themselves to even betrayed his oath to institution and weaken the force of presenting Musharraf’s own opinion on son trial until some exit can be found. unfair and skewed legal processes over country. The legal process in this case where he should be treated — abroad In turning to hospitalisation and emer- the years and here, a former army chief, is not merely about punishment and their blow on the — without explicitly stating whether gency medical procedures, Musharraf is embarrassing himself and everyone deterrence: it is about sending a signal the former army chief’s apprehensions certainly not alone. Politicians have also associated with a trial that the state about the kind of polity Pakistan wants authorities. about inadequate cardiac facilities gone down that road in the past. But has tried to keep scrupulously fair and to be, ie democratic, constitutional and Yulia Tymoshenko inside Pakistan are reasonable or not. politicians have presented themselves transparent so far. led by civilians. DAWN Jailed Ukrainian leader TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 09 Keystone XL pipeline to shape Obama’s legacy

heard four times before: no sig- Behind the scenes, a complex nificant impact on the environ- ment,” Gerard said. political calculus is at play on The report will be critical in determining how the Keystone process plays out this year. everything from the timing of the “If the analysis suggests that there are not substantial decision to the outcome. increases in carbon emissions, then it’s not a tough call. If the analysis suggests that there are BY JEFF MASON of the pipeline could undermine significant increases, it tilts the the Democratic president’s envi- other way,” Grumet said. resident Barack Obama ronmental credentials and anger Sources inside and outside will lay out an agenda activists who have supported the administration said they did on jobs, the economy him just as his administration is not expect Obama to discuss the and the environment writing new rules to reduce heat- project in his Tuesday speech. during his State of the trapping carbon dioxide emissions “We have no expectation he’ll PUnion speech today. But he is from power plants. find the courage to address it unlikely to mention the Keystone A decision against the pipeline today. That doesn’t mean we XL oil pipeline, a politically could undercut Obama’s pledge won’t keep talking about it,” said charged project that could shape to boost employment and US Brendan Buck, spokesman for his legacy in each area. energy security while alienating John Boehner, the Republican Some five years after Keystone an important international ally speaker of the US House of XL was proposed, Canadian offi- and oil supplier. No matter what Representatives. cials, Republicans and some Obama decides, an announcement All 45 Republican US senators Democrats in conservative US before the midterm congressional urged Obama on Friday to end states are expressing frustration elections in November - which the delays and noted in a letter over the lack of a decision by the many observers expect - could that he had told them in March White House on the initiative. make Keystone a big issue in the that a decision would be made The TransCanada Corp races that will determine control before the end of 2013. “We are project involves construction of of the US Congress. well into 2014 and you still have a 1,897-kilomtere pipeline from The Keystone project is a par- not made a decision,” they said. Alberta, Canada, to Steele City, ticularly sensitive subject for sev- A senior administration offi- Nebraska, where it would connect eral Democratic senators from cial said the president viewed with a previously approved line. politically divided states who the issue as one that had become That would create a system that support the pipeline, are under disproportionately symbolic and could move more than 800,000 pressure from Republican crit- super-charged for both sides. He barrels of crude from Alberta’s oil ics who back the project, and are does not believe it is the job crea- sands to refineries on the US Gulf frustrated with what they see as tor that its backers suggest or Coast each day. Supporters say the administration’s reluctance to the environmental nemesis that Keystone XL would create thou- decide the matter. Demonstrators carry a replica of a pipeline during a march against the Keystone XL pipeline in Washington, in its objectors fear, the official said. sands of jobs and cut US fuel costs Democratic Senators Mark this February 17, 2013 file photo. In June, while announcing a by reducing the nation’s reliance Begich of Alaska, Mary Landrieu plan to cut US carbon emissions, on oil imports from nations that of Louisiana and Kay Hagan of Obama brought up the pipeline are less friendly than Canada. North Carolina are prominent Michael Brune, executive direc- sure his legacy on climate is solid,” the timeline is being determined unexpectedly and used words They also point to US govern- Keystone backers and have sup- tor of the Sierra Club, an environ- a former administration official by the State Department, which that both sides claimed backed ment reports about the dangers ported past Republican-led mental group. “It’s clear that one said. “The degree to which this has a say in the matter because up their arguments. of moving crude oil by rail as an efforts to circumvent Obama on of the most important ways that decision impacts the way he’s the proposed pipeline would cross “Our national interest will be alternative to the pipeline. the decision. he will be judged is what actions viewed by the progressive com- the US-Canada border. On Jan served only if this project does not Critics of the pipeline plan say For Obama, the political cal- has he taken on climate change.” munity, that’s certainly something 17, Secretary of State John Kerry significantly exacerbate the prob- it would harm the environment culus on Keystone extends well Environmentalists and young they need to weigh.” said he hoped an analysis of the lem of carbon pollution,” he said and hasten climate change by pro- beyond the issue of the pipeline people - key segments of the So when will Obama make the thousands of public comments then. “The net effects of the pipe- moting oil-harvesting methods in itself. As he enters his sixth year Democratic Party’s political base - call? “You have to make a basic on the project’s environmental line’s impact on our climate will Alberta that produce high levels in office, Obama has become have worked for years to block the decision to answer that ques- impact would be done “soon.” be absolutely critical to determin- of carbon dioxide emissions. increasingly focused on build- Keystone pipeline plan because tion, and that is: How political The American Petroleum ing whether this project is allowed The project is in limbo while ing his legacy as a “progressive” of what they see as the project’s will the timeline be?” said Jason Institute, the oil industry’s top to go forward.” the US State Department final- president. The cornerstone of potential to increase climate- Grumet, a former energy adviser lobbying group and a big Keystone When Obama makes a decision ises an environmental review, a that legacy is Obama’s health- warming emissions. to Obama’s 2008 campaign and backer, said it expects the State on Keystone XL, Chief of Staff long-delayed process that has care overhaul, which continues Obama needs support from that now president of the Bipartisan Department’s report to come out Denis McDonough and Kerry irked allies in Ottawa and advo- to face attacks from Republicans. base for other second-term initia- Policy Center. A decision by sum- as early as Thursday. are likely to be his top confidants. cates on both sides of the issue in But Obama also wants to have an tives such as immigration reform, mer would give the issue legs in “It’s our expectation it will be John Podesta, a former chief of the United States. enduring impact on the nation’s and a potential Democratic suc- the 2014 congressional campaigns. released next week,” the group’s staff to President Bill Clinton and Behind the scenes, a complex efforts to counter climate change. cessor such as former Secretary A decision after the November chief executive, Jack Gerard, said a Keystone critic who recently political calculus is at play on “The president doesn’t have of State Hillary Clinton would midterms would thrust it into the last week during an interview, cit- returned to the White House as a everything from the timing of the to run for election ever again, need it to gain traction in the beginning of the primary season ing sources within the adminis- counsellor to Obama, has recused decision to the outcome. increasingly he’s going to be 2016 election. for the 2016 presidential race. tration. “We’re expecting to hear himself from the process. For Obama, a decision in favour thinking about his legacy,” said “The president wants to make Administration officials say the same conclusion that we’ve REUTERS Boycott movement is Freedom of expression in Islam a caution to Israel the teachings of Islam and the interests of edge of our swords.” Omar replied : “If you The opposition has the Umma. Advising others to reach the wel- don’t do so, You’ll lose Allah’s blessings, and BY VIJAY PRASHAD fare of all is an important mission and duty if I don’t accept your correction, I will lose of any Muslim. God’s blessing. he growing movement for boycott, divestment and sanctions of the right to express 4. Freedom of expression is related to 8. The ruler is accountable for those Israeli universities has struck a chord in Israel. Justice Minister a score of principles in Islam such as the who elected him and accepted him as their Tzipi Livni said recently that the boycott campaign, which drew and convey its views respect of the dignity of the human being, leader, thus they have the right to know what Tnew attention when it was joined last month by the American consultation (Shoora), justice, equality, good he is doing, and to control him and to sue him Studies Association (ASA), “is moving and advancing uniformly and expo- will, solidarity, tolerance and social welfare. when he misbehaves. nentially.” If Israel does not respond, Livni said, it will turn itself into “a and opinion. In Islam Islam attaches great importance to consulta- Shoora means consultation and delibera- lone settlement in the world.” tion. Everyone has the right to put forward tion to bring forth ideas and opinions from Livni meant that criticism of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands you don’t have to his or her point of view. peoples’ minds. Shoora is no more than a should be taken seriously. Finance Minister Yair Lapid concurred, writing, 5. The right of expression in Islam is procedure of making decisions. It can thus be “The world seems to be losing patience with us. If we don’t make progress an inalienable right. The citizen in society defined as “the procedure of making decisions with the Palestinians, we will lose the support of the world and our legitimacy.” agree with the ruler achieves his dignity and his pride through by consultation and deliberation among those The boycott movement is a caution to Israel that it must be less obdurate this right. The right to know and to be edu- who have an interest in the matter on which in its relations with the Palestinians — a position far removed from the or the majority in cated is also a duty to pursue and acquire a decision is to be taken, or others who can toxic response to the ASA within the United States, where many groups knowledge to use it for the welfare of the help them to reach such a decision”. (‘Shoora long have opposed any discussion of the reality of Israel’s occupation. In Muslim community. The Prophet (PBUH) and Democracy: A Conceptual Analysis’, 2010, the collegiate group Hillel informed its members that its branches order to express said “seeking knowledge is compulsory for www.islam.com). The important matter on were not permitted to invite speakers who “support boycott of, divestment every Muslim man and woman.” Implicit which Shoora is made can be an individual from, or sanctions against the State of Israel.” in that statement is the centrality of an level, or a group of individuals level, or the After Swarthmore College’s Hillel club decided to allow open discussion your opinions information-rich environment for Umma. whole public level (Umma). on various matters — including on inviting critics of Israel to campus, the The value of information does not rest in its Islamic shoora is not a political system, national president of Hillel, Eric Fingerhut, reiterated that “ ‘anti-Zionists’ and views. individual acquisition, but rather in using it because most of the principles and values will not be permitted to speak using the Hillel name or under the Hillel for the general good of the community. according to which society is to be organized, roof, under any circumstances.” Swarthmore students plan to defy these 6. Everybody is subjected to criticism and by which it should abide, are stated in guidelines. Their action is a piece of the changed climate among young BY DR MOHAMED KIRAT and disagreement no matter what his/her that higher law. The proper description of a people, many of whom want a serious debate on the occupation. status in society is. The right to express an political system that is based on those prin- The boycott developed in 2005, when 171 civil society organizations in slam is a religion of freedom of speech, opinion involves the duty to speak out. If ciples is that it is Islamic and not shooraic, Palestine called on the international community to stand in solidarity with right to communication, tolerance and the individual believes something is wrong, because Shoora is only one component of it. the Palestinian people. Among other tactics, these organizations called for the respect of human beings no matter he does not have the right to remain silent This characteristic of Islam made society the boycott of Israeli institutions that colluded with the occupation, including Iwhat they are and who they are. Islam about it. The Prophet (PBUH) said: “He who immune to absolute tyranny and dictator- Hebrew University, which illegally built parts of its campus in the occupied praises freedom of expression, which is con- remains silent about truth is a dumb devil.” ship. There have been Muslim rulers who territories. Supporters were asked to raise awareness of Palestinians’ lack sidered as an integral part of the pride and This principle is congruent with the concept were despotic, but they were so only in that of academic freedom, not only in the occupied territories but also within dignity of the Muslim. Freedom of expression of commanding good and forbidding evil. In they were not chosen by the true representa- Israel’s 1948 boundaries. in Islam is based essentially on the following matters of pubic concern, individual interests tives of the Muslim people, or that they were Within the Israeli academy, there has been little care for this lack of principles: are subordinated to those of the general pub- not strict in abiding by some of the Islamic freedom: In 2008, a petition on behalf of Palestinian academics was sent to 1. Sacred human rights: Human being lic to safeguard the highly-cherished ideals teachings; but none of those who called them- 9,000 Israeli academics; only 407 signed it. One reason Western academics as a creature of Allah is respected and of the community. selves Muslim rulers dared, or perhaps even have invested in the movement is to offer our fellowship with Palestinian enjoys human rights without distinction or 7. The opposition has the right to wanted, to abolish the Islamic law. academics whose voices have been drowned out. segregation. There is no superior race and express and convey its views and opinions. Shoora, therefore is a way of life and a The overreaction to the ASA resolution stems from a simple truth: The inferior race. The only difference between In Islam you don’t have to agree with the culture that cannot be practised in real life movement is having a major impact in the West. This impact comes, as human beings in Islam lies in faith, work and ruler or the majority in order to express your without effective communication, and public Peter Beinart wrote last fall, because the movement is fuelled by “interac- knowledge. opinions and views. The right of political relations and without establishing a healthy tions with Palestinians living under Israeli control. American Jewish lead- 2. Respect of others, no distinction and opposition and of honest criticism of authori- and a democratic relationship between the ers don’t understand the power of such interactions because they rarely no segregation on the basis of colour, sex, and ties is also a duty. The first Muslim Caliph ruler and the citizens of the Umma. Shoora, have them themselves.” Such interactions, seldom reported in the media, religion . Abu Bakr, in his inaugural speech said: “If I is the practice of political public relations include Palestinian civil society activists on tour in the US, International 3. Advice: “Religion is advice”, this is to do wrong, correct me.” The second Caliph in Islam. Solidarity Movement activists and religious groups in the West Bank and help others in their daily life. Advice here is Omar asked “what will you do if I do wrong? Kirat is a professor of Public Relations and Gaza, conversations at international gatherings such as the World Social conceived as expressing one’s point of view, One of those present stood up and said: “By Mass Communication at the College of Arts and Forum and discussions among Palestinian and Western musicians on the speaking out by denouncing what is against God Omar! We will put you right with the Sciences, Qatar University. difficulty Palestinians face in their everyday lives. WP-BLOOMBERG TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 MIDDLE EAST 10 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com Bahrain court upholds jail Syria talks to continue for 13 Shias DUBAI: A Bahraini court despite deadlock upheld yesterday jail sentences of 10-15 years for Shias con- victed of launching two sepa- Assad must leave power: Opposition rate attacks on police in the Gulf kingdom, a judicial source GENEVA: Syrian peace talks Foreign Minister Faisal Muqdad been achieved, the formation of a said. in Geneva were deadlocked yes- said: “Never! We shall not leave transition governing body.” In the first case, the court terday over the explosive issue the table.” yesterday marked the third day of cassation confirmed 15-year of transferring power from Fleihan also said there no plans of UN-sponsored talks between prison sentences against each President Bashar Al Assad’s for the opposition to leave “until the two sides in Geneva and the of 10 defendants convicted of regime, delegates from the war- the goal of this conference has first expected to deal with politi- attempting to murder four police- ring sides said. cal issues. men, the source said. But both parties said they were The two sides have been They targeted the policemen in not planning to walk away from brought together in the biggest April 2012 in the Shia village of the talks, even though a session Chemical diplomatic push yet to end a Akr, near the capital Manama, yesterday had broken up with no civil war that has left more than according to the charges. progress after the regime set out weapons 130,000 dead and forced millions A lawyer said the verdict a statement of principles. from their homes. ignored accusations by the The opposition rejected the The opposition says Assad must defendants that they had regime’s statement, saying talks removed leave power and a transitional been tortured into giving needed to focus on a political tran- government be formed based on confessions. sition, and UN mediator Lakhdar DAMASCUS: A second an agreement reached during a In the other case, the court Brahimi ended the session. shipment of chemical weap- first peace conference in Geneva upheld 10-year jail terms against “The discussions were not ons materials has been in 2012. each of three Shia convicted of constructive today because of removed from Syria under a The regime says Assad’s role is attempting to murder police- the regime’s strategy to deflect... deal to eliminate its arsenal, not up for debate at this confer- men in the village of Karzakan (and) change the subject by talk- the joint UN mission over- ence — dubbed Geneva II — and in February last year. ing of terrorism,” Rima Fleihan, seeing the disarmament said denies that the initial Geneva deal The defendants were accused a member of the opposition yesterday. requires him to go. of opening fire on policemen who National Coalition’s delegation, “Today, a further shipment Opposition delegation spokes- were dispersing demonstrators in told reporters. of chemical weapons materi- man Monzer Aqbiq said earlier the village. Regime delegation member als took place from the Syrian that after two days of talks on A month-long protest that Buthaina Shaaban said the oppo- Arab Republic,” the United humanitarian issues, the time had erupted on February 14, 2011, sition had rejected discussion of Nations and the Organisation come for discussions on political challenged the regime of the Shia- anything other than the creation for the Prohibition of Chemical questions. majority kingdom that is ruled by of a transitional government. Weapons (OPCW) said in a “We will talk about transition. Free Syrian Army fighters walk along a deserted street past damaged the Sunni Al Khalifa dynasty. She said the government had statement. The Geneva communique... says buildings in the besieged area of Homs, yesterday. The demonstrations were bro- presented a statement of “politi- “The chemical materials that there should be a political ken up in mid-March in a deadly cal principles which we thought were verified by Joint Mission transition towards democracy, “They are in Geneva to speak the negotiations is now possible.” crackdown helped by security no two Syrian persons should personnel before being loaded by the formation of a transitional in the name of the Syrian people In the first tangible promise to forces from neighbouring Saudi disagree with” -- including pro- in Lattakia port onto Danish governing body with full execu- who have been the target of ter- emerge from the talks, Brahimi Arabia. tecting the country’s sovereignty, and Norwegian cargo vessels tive authority, including army and rorism by armed groups linked to said on Sunday the regime had At least 89 people have been preserving state institutions and for onward transportation.” security,” he said. Al Qaeda,” it said. agreed to allow women and chil- killed in Bahrain since the pro- stopping the threat from “terror- An earlier shipment was In Damascus, official Syrian The regime accuses the opposi- dren safe passage from besieged tests began, according to the ist” groups. removed on January 7. media made it clear that Assad’s tion and its international backers of rebel-held areas of the city of International Federation for “We were surprised that this The UN Security Council continued leadership remained a promoting “terrorism” in the coun- Homs. The regime’s promise Human Rights. basic paper was rejected by the last year backed a US-Russian red line that negotiators would try, pointing to militant Islamist raised some hopes of humani- Demonstrators frequently other side, who either does not deal to eliminate Syria’s vast not cross. “Those who are delud- rebel groups like the Islamic State tarian relief, but was greeted by clash with security forces in Shia have the capacity to acknowledge chemical arsenal as a way to ing themselves must understand of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and scepticism on the ground. villages outside the capital. Syria and its territorial integrity, avert US strikes threatened that the government delegation the Al Nusra Front. Activists in rebel areas of Homs Bomb attacks have included or they don’t care about what’s after a massive chemical to Geneva II did not go to this The pro-regime Al Watan news- said residents had “no trust” in one that targeted a Sunni mosque happening to the Syrian people,” attack near Damascus that conference to hand power to those paper said any optimism about the regime and first wanted close to the royal court last July. Shaaban said. Washington blamed on the who have conspired against the the talks had faded because of the aid supplies and guarantees It caused no casualties. Asked if they were planning regime. AFP people over the last three years,” opposition’s “inability to negoti- that those leaving would not be to leave the talks, Syrian Deputy the Tishreen state newspaper said. ate” and warned: “The collapse of arrested. AFP Kuwait seizes Iranian boat No concrete step yet for Homs evacuation, aid KUWAIT CITY: The Kuwaiti coastguard seized yesterday GENEVA: No concrete steps to emerge from the talks, which agencies should be allowed into said Abu Ziad, an activist in the that any aid would be brought in, an Iranian boat carrying 12 have been taken to evacuate on Friday saw Syria’s opposi- the besieged districts to assess besieged, rebel-held part of the or that anyone would be allowed Iranians and two Afghans that women and children or provide tion and the regime of President needs. “There won’t be any quick central city. out, said Abu Ziad. had entered the Gulf state’s aid to the besieged Old City of Bashar Al Assad sit down in the wins. We should be under no illu- “Those willing to leave would “The shelling is still non-stop. territorial waters, the interior Homs despite an agreement at same room for the first time since sion that this will solve the prob- only do so if there are guaran- Many houses are on fire. People ministry and a security source Syrian peace talks in Geneva, the war erupted in 2011. lem. And access is not a one-off, tees they won’t be detained by are still getting killed.” said. the Red Cross said yesterday. Opposition activists in Homs where you get in with some food the regime... But many others do Activists in Homs’s rebel dis- Patrols spotted the boat after “Until today noon, there has expressed scepticism, however, parcels and medical aid,” he said, not want to leave their husbands tricts, which cover only a tiny it entered Kuwaiti waters early been no concrete step taken for saying they first wanted aid sup- noting that longer-term relief behind.” section of Syria’s third city, cau- in the morning, seized the vessel any operation of this type in Homs plies and “guarantees” that those efforts would be essential. The He spoke a day after the tiously welcomed the proposal. and detained all 14 on board, the Old City,” Robert Mardini, head of leaving would not be arrested. ICRC has not been inside Homs UN-Arab League envoy to Syria, But they also said the aid must ministry said in a statement. operations for the Middle East at Mardini underlined that offer- since November 2012, Mardini said. who is leading peace talks in be sufficient to meet their needs, It said the 14 individuals would the International Committee of ing civilians the chance to leave More than half of the 500 Geneva, said that women and while demanding guarantees be held pending an investigation. the Red Cross (ICRC), said. the besieged community should women and children trapped in children trapped in besieged areas that any women, children and The ministry did not reveal the On Sunday at the UN-brokered not mean that they must do so. the Syrian city of Homs refuse of Homs would be allowed to leave wounded people who choose to identity of those arrested but a negotiations in Geneva, Syria’s “In no way should anybody be to be evacuated, saying they fear yesterday. leave will not be detained. security source said they were 12 regime agreed to allow women forcing civilians to leave,” he said. leaving male relatives behind, Lakhdar Brahimi also said the Some 3,000 people are trapped Iranians and two Afghans. and children safe passage from “We know from our experi- activists said yesterday. “Some government had agreed to allow in Homs’ rebel-held areas, accord- Kuwait regularly intercepts rebel-held areas of the city of ence that people will not wish to 200 women and children, those humanitarian aid into the rebel ing to the Syrian Observatory for boats from Iraq and Iran that Homs where they have been under leave their homes, their personal suffering the worst as a result areas, which have been under Human Rights, a Britain-based stray into its waters with sus- siege for months, with near-daily belongings, without no guaran- of the lack of food and medical siege for nearly 600 days. group with a network of sources pected smugglers or fishermen shelling and the barest of supplies. tee of what they will be facing supplies because of the army By yesterday afternoon, how- inside the war-ravaged country. on board. AGENCIES It was the first tangible promise outside,” he added, saying aid siege, are ready to be evacuated,” ever, there was no confirmation AFP

Nine killed France cautiously backs Turkey’s EU bid in latest Iraq ANKARA: French President must be carried forward with the of law and independence of the Francois Hollande cautiously most difficult subjects, subjects judiciary were essential condi- bloodshed backed Turkey’s aim to join that are necessarily the hardest,” tions for EU membership. Gul, the European Union yesterday he said during a joint news con- avoiding any mention of tension in BAGHDAD: A s er ie s of atta ck s despite its recent crackdown on ference with Turkish President Ankara except for two references in Baghdad and Sunni Arab police and judiciary and earlier Abdullah Gul, enumerating a to a “vigorous debate”, said the areas north of the capital killed French reservations about the series of negotiation points still negotiation was a technical proc- nine people yesterday, as Iraq idea. to be covered. ess whose outcome would not be grapples with a months-long In a long-planned state visit, Of 35 membership “chapters” known until all outstanding issues surge in nationwide violence. the first by a French leader in to be checked off before Turkey had been laid to rest. Coupled with a protracted 22 years, Hollande is seeking to can join the EU, 14 have so far “We respect that the accession stand-off between security forces mend frayed ties and smooth the been completed. If all the chap- process is one to adopt legal and and anti-government fighters in way for French companies angling ters are completed, France and democratic criteria and judicial the western province of Anbar, for contracts in Turkey. Austria will put Turkey’s EU norms,” he said. “We would not unrest this month has left more But the visit has been overshad- membership to a referendum, as like this to become hostage to than 850 people dead, fuelling owed by Prime Minister Tayyip will the Turkish government. politics.” fears Iraq is slipping back into Erdogan’s efforts to tighten “The negotiation process must France and Turkey’s relation- the brutal conflict that plagued controls on the court system in allow Turkey to develop and show ship remains frayed two years it in 2006-2007. response to a corruption probe. what it’s capable of achieving... after full diplomatic ties were Foreign leaders and diplomats European leaders criticised the That is the answer that the Turks restored after a falling out over a have urged Iraq’s Shiite-led gov- AK Party leader in Brussels last must provide,” added Hollande. law which made it illegal to deny ernment to address long-term week, saying democratic princi- Hollande’s predecessor Nicolas that the killing of Armenians grievances in the disaffected ples needed to be upheld. Sarkozy favoured association sta- by Ottoman Turks in 1915 was Sunni community to undercut Hollande said Turkey should tus for Turkey over full accession, genocide. support for militants, but with continue to negotiate in view of saying the country was too big, Between 2009 and 2012, when elections due in April, Prime joining the EU despite the criti- too poor and too culturally dif- France’s Constitutional Court Minister Nouri Al Maliki has cism as such talks would allow it ferent to join the EU. struck down the Armenian gen- taken a hard line. Attacks yes- to address issues such as rule of European Commission ocide law, French firms’ share terday struck in Baghdad, and in law, judicial independence, sepa- President Jose Manuel Barroso of foreign investment in Turkey and around the restive mostly- ration of powers and respect of told Erdogan during the Turkish shrank to 3 percent from 6 per- Sunni cities of Baquba, Mosul and French President Francois Hollande with Turkey’s Prime Minister Recep fundamental liberties. leader’s first visit to Brussels in cent previously, French officials Samarra, security and medical Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara yesterday. “The (membership) process five years that respect for rule said. REUTERS officials said. AFP TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 INTERNATIONAL www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 11 More Italians Kiev: No plan leave, drop in immigration ROME: The number of Italians yet for state leaving their recession-hit coun- try to seek work elsewhere rose sharply in 2012, while incoming migration levels dropped, offi- cial figures showed yesterday. of emergency The figures support reports that Italy — hit hard by the financial crisis and rocketing Protesters shun state hospitals unemployment levels — is losing brain power and labour to other KIEV: Ukraine yesterday said After occupying the premises countries and has also become the introduction of a state of for over 12 hours, the activists less appealing a destination for emergency was not yet on the walked out of the building but foreigners. agenda after radicals seized the dozens dressed in battle fatigues The number of Italians leaving justice ministry in Kiev in an still blocked the front entrance, the country rose by 36.0 percent attack that raised concerns of an AFP correspondent said. to 68,000 people, up from 50,000 a derailing of talks to ease the Opposition leaders said in a in 2011. They headed primarily for crisis. joint statement that they were Germany, Switzerland, the United The Ukrainian parliament still open to negotiations “despite Kingdom and France, the national today was due to meet to discuss an attempt by the authorities to institute of statistics (ISTAT) said. concessions proposed by President abandon the negotiations and More than a quarter of over Viktor Yanukovich, in a highly declare a state of emergency”. 24-year-olds emigrating had uni- anticipated extraordinary session The statement confirmed the versity degrees, it said. that could be a make-or-break justice ministry building had now Conversely, the number of moment to resolve the standoff. been emptied of protesters, whose immigrants arriving dropped by Foreign Minister Leonid action had been seen as a danger- close to 10 percent in 2012 from Kozhara told reporters yesterday: ous provocation by many within Anti-government protesters take part in training exercises using shields to prevent police attacks on Independence a year earlier, to 321,000 people. “Today we are not considering the the mainstream opposition. Square in Kiev yesterday. There were fewer immigrants introduction of a state of emer- Protesters now control much of from Moldova, Ukraine, Peru gency. Today, this measure is not the city centre of Kiev around a emergency physician from Kiev. Kiev City Police declined to worse,” said Pyvovarov. “We used and Ecuador, but there was an on the table.” hub on Independence Square, with “The people know this and they comment. to be treating colds and hypo- increase in people fleeing from Amid a febrile atmosphere in their camp protected by barricades would rather get treatment on Pyvovarov is part of a team of thermia, now I see stuff straight countries hit by conflict, such as Kiev, the Dzerkalo Tyzhnia news several metres high and guarded the streets than go to jail.” ten volunteer doctors based at from a war zone. Flesh wounds, Nigeria, Pakistan, Mali and the website reported the cabinet was by activists dressed in balaclavas Videos posted online on two medical points at the main gas burns, shrapnel in the eye and Ivory Coast. preparing a decree for a state of and armed with baseball bats. Thursday show police raiding flashpoint near Dynamo Kiev even some amputations.” emergency which would restrict Meanwhile, injured anti-gov- an emergency ward in Kiev and football stadium. Protestors accuse police of Russian woman movement on some Kiev streets. ernment protesters fearing arrest arresting injured activists in Distinguished by red crosses deliberately aiming rubber bullets Tensions remained high in Kiev are shunning Kiev’s hospitals and their beds. An EU Delegation to taped on battered plastic hel- at head height, targeting medics changes gender after several dozen radical pro- choosing to undergo operations Ukraine has expressed concern mets, they work on the front line on the battlefield and taping nails testers seized control of the jus- in field clinics run by an army of about “deteriorating Human of barricades to provide first aid to stun grenades to create lethal to escape debts tice ministry late Sunday. volunteer doctors. Rights” in the country. to injured activists. weapons. Fifty percent of patients Justice Minister Olena Lukash, Since clashes between activists “Arrests of wounded people in Protesters continue to demand in the field hospitals are head and MOSCOW: A Russian woman who is taking part in the negotia- and security forces worsened last front of clinics... can be accepted the resignation of Ukrainian face injuries. on the run over unpaid debts tions with the opposition, said she week, doctors have faced more under no circumstances,” it said President Viktor Yanukovich Police officers have been hurt has changed sex in an apparent would ask for the talks to be broken serious injuries, colds and frost- in a statement. after two months occupying at the hands of protestors who attempt to avoid paying them off if the building was not freed. bite from the searing cold escalat- Doctors at the hospitals fear central Kiev. Radical far-right hurl rocks and Molotov cock- back — but is still liable for the If the protesters do not vacate ing to flesh wounds, gas burns and losing their jobs if they discuss groups took the protests fur- tails across a barricade of burn- money, bailiffs said yesterday. the building, Lukash said she would concussions from the violence. the arrests, said Pyvovarov who ther following the introduction ing tyres. “I am officially stating “The debtor changed gender to also approach Ukraine’s national “When I worked in the emer- has friends working on the wards. of sweeping anti-protest legisla- that these are criminals who try to escape liabilities,” the press security council with “a demand to gency ward, any injuries caused “Not everybody agrees with tion, and have clashed with police must answer for their actions,” service of the bailiff service of the discuss imposing a state of emer- by suspicious violence had to these protests,” he added. “They since December 19, to the alarm said Ukrainian Prime Minister southern Astrakhan region said gency in this country,” Lukash told be reported,” said Aleksandr think they are criminals making of Western governments. Mykola Azarov last week. in a statement. Ukraine’s Inter channel. Pyvovarov, 32, a former trouble.” “The injuries have got much AGENCIES The 38-year-old woman, named only as Natalya, changed sex to become a man named Andrian after building up debts of around 130,000 rubles ($3,745), a spokes- woman for the bailiffs said. Central African Republic’s Muslims under attack: UN envoy “During our investigation, we found out that the woman doesn’t exist anymore, and now a man BANGUI: Central African Nations estimates that more than Looting and mob violence shops and homes, most of which has already called for more inter- exists,” said Yevgenia Zarynsh. Republic’s Muslim minority 2,000 people have been killed in mainly targeting predominantly had already been stripped of their national troops to help quell the After changing gender, the man faces a rising wave of reprisal the resulting bloodshed over the Muslim neighbourhoods of Bangui goods and furniture during previ- violence. A 1,600-strong French received a new passport with dif- attacks and foreign govern- past 10 months. have intensified in the past week ous waves of theft. force and another 5,000 African ferent details which he used as ID ments must do more to prevent Seleka leaders are now aban- despite the presence of a French Gunfire erupted as French troops are already deployed in to secure new loans, bailiffs said. the country being torn apart, doning the capital Bangui with intervention force and thousands forces, firing tear gas, tried to Central African Republic. But even such a drastic meas- the top UN human rights offi- their remaining fighters, raising of African peacekeepers. disperse angry Christian crowds The European Union last week ure would not cancel the debts cial said yesterday. the risk of reprisal killings target- “We simply cannot let the attempting to erect barricades on pledged around 500 additional sol- Andrian acquired as a woman, Almost one million people, or ing Muslim civilians. social fabric of this country be the streets. The witness saw one diers, but it was unclear which Zarynsh said. a quarter of the population, have “The security and human rights torn apart,” the UN’s Pillay said. woman with a gunshot wound. countries would contribute troops “He will be liable all the same, been displaced by fighting since situation has further deteriorated “I call as a matter of utmost “As Seleka loses ground, and when they would arrive. despite the gender change. It’s the mainly Muslim Seleka rebel over the past few days,” U.N. High urgency upon the international Muslim communities are being The Catholic Archbishop of futile. He’ll still have to pay them movement seized power in the Commissioner for Human Rights community to strengthen peace- systematically attacked by anti- Bangui, Dieudonné Nzapalainga, back. If a debtor thinks he can majority Christian country last Navi Pillay said in a statement. keeping efforts... Many lives are balaka. There’s killing on a daily and the head of the country’s escape that way, he’s very much March, unleashing a wave of kill- “Muslim civilians are now at stake.” basis,” Peter Bouckaert, emergen- Islamic community, Imam Oumar mistaken,” said the spokeswoman. ing and looting. extremely vulnerable. Many are Most Muslim civilians have now cies director for Human Rights Kobine Layama, during a visit to As a man Andrian has now Christian self-defence groups, being pushed out of the coun- fled Bangui or are preparing to do Watch, told Reuters. Britain, urged London to back the built up new debts — this time known as “anti-balaka” or anti- try, alongside ex-Seleka, and are so. A witness in the Miskine neigh- The country’s new interim pres- EU force and plans for a larger unpaid taxes, Zarynsh added. He machete, have taken up arms now fleeing, mostly towards the bourhood watched yesterday as ident Catherine Samba-Panza, UN peacekeeping mission. is still on the run. against them and the United Chadian border,” she said. looters dismantled Muslim-owned who was sworn in last Thursday, REUTERS AGENCIES

AU welcomes Putin salutes courage Madagascar back into fold of Leningrad residents

ANTANANARIVO: The SAINT PETERSBURG: “360,000 civilians died in African Union lifted its sus- President Vladimir Putin Leningrad over a period of just pension of Madagascar’s mem- said yesterday the memory of four months from the end of 1941 bership yesterday after a new Russia’s heroism and sacrifice to the start of 1942,” Putin said at president took office following during the Second World War a meeting with war veterans and the island’s first election since a must endure as the country survivors of the siege. coup five years ago. marked the 70th anniversary of “Britain lost nearly the same Madagascar was plunged into the lifting of the Nazi siege of amount in the entire Seco nd diplomatic isolation and donors Leningrad. World War. Can you imagine the froze direct aid worth 40 percent The 61-year-old leader said the difference between the victims of the Indian Ocean island’s budget world should never forget “the that the Soviet Union and other when Andry Rajoelina grabbed courage and heroism of the Soviet countries of the world laid on the power with military backing in 2009. people and residents of Leningrad” altar of common victory?” On Saturday, Rajoelina as he participated in commemora- Surrounded by several dozen handed the presidency to Hery tive ceremonies in his native Saint survivors of the siege, Putin earlier Rajaonarimampianina, a former Petersburg, known as Leningrad visited the famed Piskaryovskoe finance minister, after presidential under the Soviet Union. Memorial Cemetery, the main and parliamentary elections took The near two-and-a-half-year memorial to the victims of the siege. place in calm conditions last month. siege — 872 days in all — by Nazi Putin also honoured the mem- “(The Council) decides, in view forces between September 1941 ory of his elder brother who died of the completion of the transition and January 1943 is seared into during the blockade and was process and restoration of consti- the national consciousness as buried at the cemetery in a mass tutional order ... to lift the suspen- one of the darkest moments in grave, the Kremlin said. sion of Madagascar’s participation Russian history. The president also laid flowers in the activities of the AU,” the Taking Leningrad was a stra- at a memorial on the banks of the organisation’s Peace and Security tegic part of Adolf Hitler’s ulti- Neva River marking the site of Council (PSC) said in a statement. mately failed plan to eliminate one of the most important bat- The African Union is a pan-con- the Soviet Union as a threat to tles during the siege in which his tinental bloc made up of 54 African German domination of Europe. father participated as a soldier. states whose stated objectives include The assault is considered one of The blockade of the former promoting peace and security on the the most devastating sieges in his- imperial capital claimed the lives continent and encouraging sustain- tory, with German commanders of more than a million people, able economic development Russian President Vladimir Putin (front) participates in a wreath laying ceremony at the Motherland memorial at calculating that starvation would according to historians. REUTERS St Petersburg’s Piskaryovskoye Memorial Cemetery yesterday. be their most effective weapon. AFP TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 12 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com INTERNATIONAL Expat Scots demand vote in referendum 800,000 Scots abroad raise voice

LONDON: A million Scots liv- last 19 years living in Australia, ing outside of Scotland should Singapore, and now New York, be allowed to vote in a referen- said: “For me having a vote is dum this year on whether their important as the fact is that I country becomes an independ- could go back to Scotland to live ent nation, one of them said yes- at some point.” terday as he sought backing for “This is not like an election a legal challenge. where you vote in a politician for James Wallace, a Scottish- four years, as this reverses 300 born trainee lawyer who lives in years of history. Someone from England, is among the 1.15 mil- France studying at university in lion Scots who are excluded from Scotland has more rights than the vote as they are not resident me,” the 45-year-old product there. Anyone over the age of developer, told Reuters, adding 16 living in Scotland — about 80 that she would vote against inde- percent of the 5.2 million popula- pendence. Supporters of Scottish tion — has the right to vote on independence may view any legal September 18 either for inde- challenge as a political move as pendence or to remain part of expatriates may be more likely the United Kingdom alongside to stick with the UK, although England, Wales and Northern Scotland’s most famous expat, Ireland. US-based actor Sean Connery, That means 800,000 Scots liv- 83, backs independence. ing in the rest of the UK and oth- The first major opinion poll of Peru’s President Ollanta Humala (centre) and First Lady Nadine Heredia wave to supporters after the court decision on a decades-old maritime dispute ers in large Scottish communities 2014 showed the strongest back- between Peru and Chile, at the Government Palace in Lima, yesterday. in countries such as the United ing yet for ending Scotland’s 307- States, Canada and Ireland will year union with England. have no say. An ICM survey on Sunday “It’s ridiculous, quite frankly, found 37 percent of voters backed that Scottish soldiers based in independence, up from 32 per- England, 10 out of 11 Scottish cent in September, while those Court awards Peru swathe of Chile’s sea Olympians and international wanting to stay in the UK fell rugby players who played for by the same margin to 44 per- THE HAGUE: Lima cried vic- “We have won more than 70 navigation in this zone, without a Peru dragged Chile to court in Scotland all their careers, cannot cent. Nineteen percent of voters tory yesterday after the UN’s percent of our entire demand,” doubt this transfer is a lamenta- 2008, saying their border in the vote,” Wallace, 26, told Reuters. remained undecided. top court handed it a wedge of Peru’s President Ollanta Humala ble loss for our country,” Pinera Pacific Ocean was unclear and Wallace is seeking support Previous attempts to build sea under Chilean sovereignty, said. said in Santiago. accusing Chile of appropriating from other expatriates to take support to challenge voting eligi- but Peruvian fishermen never- “This ruling will be adhered to Chilean fishermen voiced dis- its territory. Peru claimed sov- legal action, although his legal bility have failed, including peti- theless said they gained nothing and respected by Peru and we are appointment at the ruling but ereignty over a 38,000-square- options are not yet clear. tions launched two years ago by from the historic ruling. confident that Chile will similarly played down its impact. kilometre fish-rich patch of the Aidan O’Neill, a barrister Wallace and by Ian Gillies who is Peru said it drew “satisfaction” abide by it,” he added. “This is a bad decision, but not Pacific controlled by Chile as well specialising in EU law assist- due to become Lord Mayor of the from the world court’s ruling in But Peruvian fisherman slapped as bad as what we expected,” said as 27,000 square kilometres that ing Wallace, said both Scottish English city of York in May. which it was handed a part of the down the victory, saying the terri- a Chilean fisherman from Arica, Santiago classifies as “high seas”. and European law could be used Gillies put the previous lack fish-rich Pacific Ocean, claimed by tory won in the ruling “did noth- in the north of the country. Judges drew a line from a to argue that expatriate Scots of interest down to timing, with Chile since the early 1950s, but its ing to benefit the region.” “This is because the govern- point 80 nautical miles off Chile’s were entitled to a vote because interest in September’s referen- southern neighbour slammed the “Tacna (a city in southern ment prepared a good defence,” northern border running south- their citizenship and legal rights dum picking up this year. decision. Peru) lost with this decision,” the fisherman said. west into the Pacific until it could be affected. “The decision “It’s appalling as it’s taking The Hague-based International David Patino of a Peruvian’s fish- Analysts said that Chile had reached almost 200 nautical miles to exclude the Scots born non- away our birthright and is mor- Court of Justice confirmed Chile’s erman’s association said. lost little as its fishermen rarely of Chile’s coast, handing Peru the resident (is) unlawful as a matter ally wrong. I may have lived in sovereignty over waters up to Both Lima and Santiago said venture further than 40 nauti- part of the ocean north of the line. of common law, and contrary to England since I was eight but I 148 kilometres from the coast before yesterday that they would cal miles from the coast. After “The Court has defined the fundamental common law con- am still at heart a Scotsman,” said but handed Lima a large swathe respect the ruling from the ICJ, six years of legal wrangling, ICJ course of the maritime bound- stitutional rights implicit in any 67-year-old Gillies. of less lucrative ocean beyond which handles disputes between judges changed the maritime ary between the parties without modern European democracy,” “This is absolutely political. that limit. countries. boundaries which Chile had determining the precise geo- O’Neill told Reuters. Expatriate Scots have broadened In Lima, Peruvians who Chile’s President Sebastian claimed since the early 1950s, in graphical coordinates,” Judge “Human rights arguments may their outlook and I think most watched the judgement on giant Pinera called the ICJ’s decision “a what they described as an “equi- Peter Tomka told delegates repre- also come into play.” would vote against leaving the screens in the city’s historic cen- lamentable loss for our country.” table” solution to a dispute dat- senting the two South American Jackie Moyes, who was born UK so they have been excluded.” tre shouted “Viva Peru!” as the “While Chile maintains in full ing back to the 1879 War of the neighbours, calling the decision in Glasgow but has spent the REUTERS outcome became apparent. its freedom of maritime and air Pacific. an “equitable solution”. AFP

Bus bonhomie US Supreme Court rules in major Ex-reporter hacked drugs case WASHINGTON: A convicted phones 1,000 times heroin trafficker will not have to serve the tough, 20-year LONDON: A former reporter lockdown in the dark arts” fol- mandatory federal prison sen- at the News of the World has lowing Goodman’s arrest and tence usually imposed when told how he hacked phones a there had been a gap of “years and an illicit drug deal ends in the thousand times after he was years” before he started again. user’s death, the US Supreme handed a list of celebrity num- He said he stopped using the Court ruled yesterday. bers when he joined the paper burner phones and just starting In a case that defines some in 2005, the Old Bailey has using the company phones. “It of the parameters of America’s heard. was just easier. The culture there strict “mandatory minimum” Dan Evans, who has pleaded was pretty blase about this kind prison sentences, the court ruled guilty to intercepting voice mes- of thing bizarrely.” that the law does not apply in sages at the News of the World, When Evans started at the the case of defendant Marcus told the phone hacking jury yes- News of the World, his new boss Burrage, even though an addict terday that he was given cash handed him a list of hundreds of who purchased drugs from him to buy pay-as-you-go phones celebrity numbers including those later died of an overdose. that were nicknamed “burners”. of Simon Cowell, Cilla Black and The law might have applied, These, he explained, were phones Zoe Ball. if it were clear that the heroin used for “illicit activities” and Evans said he was given the Burrage sold drug addict Joshua would be destroyed or “burned” numbers “because he wanted me Banka was the direct cause of after two to three months. to hack the interesting names his death. But the court noted Asked how often he hacked on it”. He had “a crack” at get- that in addition to the heroin, between his start date on the ting into around 100 of them, but other drugs were responsible for paper in January 2005 and the with repeat calls to voicemails Banka’s overdose. arrest of the paper’s then royal included, he probably hacked AFP Cuban president Raul Castro (right) and Brazilian president Dilma Rousseff (left) ride atop a bus during the editor, Clive Goodman, for hack- phones “1,000 [times] plus, opening ceremony of the first stage of the Mariel port in Mariel, Cuba, yesterday. ing-related offences in August more”. 2006, Evans replied: “Probably Evans was also given cash to most days, there might have been buy “burner” phones. the odd lull.” He explained: “They were Evans has also pleaded guilty called burner phones because Court backs airline in aviation security case to hacking phones while at the after a while I’d burn them.” Sunday Mirror. Evans told how he learned the He is the first journalist to practice of “pretext blagging”, WASHINGTON: The United he boarded a flight. Hoeper had Hoeper had boarded was returned for passing on potential security plead guilty to hacking phones which involved ringing a mobile States Supreme Court yester- reacted angrily after failing a flight to the gate. Hoeper, who was threats, even if they turn out to while working for a paper other phone operator or another com- day overturned a defamation simulation test for a fourth time not traveling with a firearm, be unfounded. than the News of the World. pany and impersonating a staff judgment against an airline with the airline at their facility in was searched and interrogated A law passed by Congress in The journalist told the jury that member from credit control or a which had been sued after Virginia in December 2004. The before returning to Denver on a 2001 following the September 11 he started hacking phones after similar department. warning that a former pilot repeated test failures left Hoeper later flight. He was fired by Air attacks had sought to “ensure he was made a staff reporter at He told the jury that “pretty could pose a security risk. facing almost certain dismissal. Wisconsin the following day. that air carriers and their the Sunday Mirror and carried much any private data” was avail- William Hoeper initially won a The airline contacted the TSA He successfully sued for employees would not hesitate to out this activity for about “a year able “on demand” at the News $1.4m settlement against his former expressing concern “about his defamation but yesterday the provide the TSA with the infor- and a half”. of the World including mobile employer Air Wisconsin, which had mental stability and the wherea- Supreme Court ruled in favour mation it needed,” US Supreme Evans, who has pleaded guilty phone numbers, mobile phone alerted the federal Transportation bouts of his firearm” during his of his former employers, stating Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor to hacking phones at the News of bills, credit card numbers, medi- Security Administration that he return flight to Denver, Colorado. that airline companies should wrote in the ruling. the World up to 2010, described cal records and tax records. may be carrying a weapon after As a precaution, the flight not face the threat of legal action AFP how “there was an explicit THE GUARDIAN TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 ASIA / PHILIPPINES www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 13 Police quell protest for indie TV station Govt refuses to give licence to Cambodian channel

PHNOM PENH: Cambodian broadcast license to a new tel- government’s refusal to meet its military police used smoke gre- evision channel run by a staunch demands for higher pay. nades and batons yesterday to government critic in a coun- Five workers were killed on Jan quell a protest by demonstra- try where the broadcast media 3 when security forces fired live tors demanding that a new tel- is accused of lacking political ammunition to quell a protest. evision channel be allowed to independence. Military police spokesman broadcast, wounding at least The violence was the latest Kheng Tito said the ongoing eight people, witnesses said. episode in a months-long politi- crackdown was necessary to The demonstration was in cal crisis in Cambodia, which was ensure public order. The ban on breach of a ban on public gather- for years racked by conflict but gatherings, he said, would only ings imposed by the government which recently saw more than a be lifted when CNRP lawmakers of Prime Minister Hun Sen, who decade of unprecedented growth ended their boycott of parliament is enduring one of the biggest and stability. and worked with the ruling party challenges to his 28-year rule The opposition Cambodia to resolve the conflict. and mounting criticism of bloody National Rescue Party (CNRP) Police clashed on Sunday with Protesters demanding an independent TV station face policemen before the clash in Phnom Penh yesterday. crackdowns on dissent. has held some of the biggest ral- anti-government protesters Military police and guards lies the country has ever seen as and garment workers who were working for Phnom Penh city part of its campaign for a re-run demanding the release of 23 peo- “Without talks between the of a UN human rights hearing “Since the beginning of 2014, authorities chased down oppo- of a July election it says it was ple jailed for their involvement in CPP and CNRP, we’re worried on Cambodia in Geneva, where respect for human rights in sition-aligned protesters near rigged in favour of Hun Sen’s the recent strikes. violent crackdown will occur in CNRP leader Sam Rainsy and Cambodia - including the treat- the Information Ministry, with ruling Cambodian People’s Party “These instances of violence the whole country,” Chan Soveth human rights groups will seek ment of human rights defenders police wielding batons and electric (CPP). happened one after another and said, adding that some CNRP support from member states to - has worsened significantly to prods. Journalists were among the CNRP has been joined by it has now become a very scary activities had been disrupted end the deadlock. Hun Sen has the point of crisis,” the Licadho wounded, according to witnesses. unions representing 350,000 and worrying trend,” said Chan by CPP supporters in several refused to resign, allow an inde- and Amnesty International rights The protest was against the garment factory workers who Soveth, a worker with the Adhoc provinces. pendent investigation into the groups said on Sunday. ministry’s refusal to grant a held strikes last year over the human right group. The violence comes ahead election, or hold another ballot. REUTERS

Beijing seeks Philippine military attacks Four more China activists on trial tougher rules on religion hardline Muslim renegades BEIJING: Four more Chinese assets, according to a copy of Li’s activists went on trial yester- arrest notice. BEIJING: A senior Chinese MANILA: The Philippine the government on the weekend, day, accused of disturbing pub- Ding, a lawyer based in Beijing, official called for stricter man- military attacked a Muslim was helping the military. lic order after urging officials was in charge of “organising and agement of religious activities, renegade faction yesterday, two “The Milf are part of the law to reveal their assets, the latest overall coordination” of the move- state media said yesterday, days after the country’s main enforcement operations. They are in a string of closely watched ment, while Li, who is unem- following explosions in China’s Muslim rebel group success- just securing their areas so the prosecutions of anti-graft ployed, was “responsible for the western region of Xinjiang fully ended negotiations to end BIFF fighters cannot enter. They campaigners. collection of information and dis- which authorities say were a decades-long insurgency that are also mad at the BIFF,” he said. The trials of members of the semination of labour”, the notice masterminded by a religious has killed tens of thousands. Milf military spokesman Von al- “New Citizens’ Movement” have said. militant. Soldiers, backed by artil- Haq confirmed that the military sparked criticism from the West Ding’s trial was adjourned after Police shot dead six peo- lery, attacked guerrillas of the had coordinated with the Milf and rights groups, as evidence of Chinese activist Xu Zhiyong he dismissed one of his lawyers, ple and six more died when Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom before the attack. “The BIFF can- the ruling Chinese Communist Wang Xing, and another lawyer, explosives they were carrying Fighters (BIFF) in a remote vil- not enter (our territories.) We have Party’s determination to crush of arrests and detentions of public Cheng Hai, voluntarily withdrew detonated in Xinhe county, lage on the southern island of a line where we have re-positioned any challenge to its rule. interest lawyers, Internet activ- his defence, because of impropri- according to weekend media Mindanao, triggering fighting (personnel). If they run there, they The government has waged a ists, journalists, religious leaders eties in the judicial proceedings, reports. Blasts struck a beauty that sent hundreds of civilians cannot enter there unless they are 10-month drive against the move- and others who challenge official Cheng said by telephone. salon and a vegetable market. fleeing, the military said. surrendering,” he said. ment, founded by Xu Zhiyong, Chinese policies and actions,” said Li’s trial was also adjourned Yu Zhengsheng, a mem- Regional military spokesman Brigadier General Edmundo one of China’s most prominent US diplomat Daniel Delk. after he dismissed his two law- ber of the Communist Party’s Dickson Hermoso said the attacks Pangilinan, one of the command- rights activists, who was jailed Delk, a second secretary at yers, said one of them, Wang seven-man Politburo Standing were launched in a bid to arrest ers of the operation, said it was a on Sunday for four years. the US embassy, urged China Quanzhang. Committee, called for action to about 25 leaders of the BIFF, a coincidence the attack came just The four activists put on trial to release the protesters imme- “From now on, at least the trial ensure that religious practice small group of between 250 and after the conclusion of the peace yesterday -- Ding Jiaxi, Li Wei, diately, lift curbs on their has stopped,” Wang said. “If we did not spill over into illegal acts. 400 militants that is opposed to talks with the Milf. But he also Zhang Baocheng and Yuan Dong freedom of movement, and guar- had continued, it would have been the peace process. said the army wanted “to totally -- advocated working within antee them the protection and finished today and by tomorrow, HK mother held The attacks began yesterday neutralise the BIFF to prevent the system to press for change, freedoms ensured by the coun- or within two days, there could be morning and were continuing the rise of another group that including urging officials to pub- try’s international human rights a sentence.” for maid abuse throughout the day, according to may want to destroy peace”. lish details of assets. commitments. Ding and Li will both get Colonel Hermoso, who said there “We want to have this group They were charged with “gath- Police accuse the activists of 15 days to select new lawyers, HONG KONG: A Hong were no immediate casualties. neutralised so they won’t cause ering a crowd to disturb public planning, organising, and car- according to Cheng and Wang. Kong housewife was arrested Hermoso said the Moro Islamic trouble... especially now that we order”, which carries a maximum rying out nearly 30 instances of Zhang also dismissed his two for allegedly assaulting her Liberation Front (Milf), the have this positive development in penalty of five years in prison. “street political activities”, from lawyers, said Zhou Ze, one of the Bangladeshi maid, the lat- 12,000-strong rebel organisation our peace negotiations,” he added. “These individuals, and their displaying banners to making lawyers. est in a series of cases high- that wrapped up peace talks with AFP prosecution, are part of a pattern speeches urging revelation of REUTERS lighting the abuse of foreign domestic helpers. The arrest of the 58-year- Wild no more old mother-of-two, identified as Cheung Sau-kuen, comes just a week after thousands HK to cull 20,000 chickens of domestic workers marched in the southern Chinese city to demand justice for an after H7N9 found in poultry Indonesian maid allegedly assaulted by her employer. HONG KONG: Hong Kong will influenza in poultry and discov- The Bangladeshi helper, cull about 20,000 chickens after ered a batch that tested positive. 27-year-old Akter Kalpona, discovering the H7N9 avian “A government department accused Cheung of punching influenza virus in a batch of has confirmed that the sample her in the head, pulling her poultry imported from main- from the chicken imported from hair, scratching her hands land China, authorities said the mainland tested positive for with a metal brush and con- yesterday. H7N9 avian influenza virus,” fining her to a store room, The The positive reading came just Hong Kong Health Minister Ko Standard newspaper reported. days after the southern Chinese Wing-man said. city introduced widespread test- “All poultry in the wholesale Tsunami kids ing of imported live poultry fol- market will be destroyed tomor- lowing growing public concern row morning... the total number still in trauma over the safety of imports, par- of chickens concerned amounts ticularly from the mainland. to 20,000,” Ko said, declaring the TOKYO: One in four nursery Two people have died from the market an “infected place”. school children caught up in human form of the virus in Hong The decision comes less than Japan’s 2011 tsunami disas- Kong since the first infection was a week before Chinese New Year, ter has psychiatric problems reported in December. which starts on Friday, when caused by the horrors of loss On Friday, the city introduced chicken is a popular dish at ban- and destruction, with experts a serological test for H7 avian quets and family gatherings. AFP warning of a dire shortage of Indonesian policemen show off the remains of preserved Sumatran tigers after seizing them in Takengon Central psychiatrists. Aceh, Banda Aceh, yesterday. A report said there are fewer than 400 Sumatran tigers left in the wild. Researchers say that for some children, the effects may be felt throughout their lifetime unless they get the help they need. A study found 25.9 percent Thai poll panel urges vote delay as army stays neutral of children aged between three and five suffer from symptoms BANGKOK: Thailand’s “As election officials, it is our Yingluck now in their third “The Election Commission and Bangkok of a protest leader, tak- including vertigo, nausea and Election Commission urged a job to make sure elections are suc- month, there has been repeated the government will meet to dis- ing to 10 the death toll since the headaches, with some exhibit- delay in next week’s planned cessful, but we also need to make speculation that the armed forces cuss this tomorrow. Soldiers will protests started in November. ing worrying behaviour such as national vote, warning yester- sure the country is peaceful enough might try a repeat of the 18 actual not be able to say much more Red shirt leaders have threat- violence or withdrawal. day of more bloodshed after vio- to hold the election,” Somchai and attempted coups they have than this,” he said. However, the ened to descend on the capital Youngsters were scarred lent clashes at the weekend. Srisutthiyakorn, an Election mounted in 80 years of on-off military in recent weeks has also again if the military steps in. by losing friends, seeing their That would drag out a fester- Commission member, said. democracy in Southeast Asia’s refused to rule out intervention. At least 90 people were killed in homes destroyed, by separation ing crisis that risks splitting the “We don’t want it to be bloody.” second biggest economy. The Election Commission says street fighting in Bangkok in 2010 from parents or by the sight country. The military, which has The commission will meet But in comments to report- the months of protests render the between troops and the red shirts. of the huge wall of water that often stepped in to take control in embattled Prime Minister ers, armed forces supreme com- country too unstable to go to the In their latest comments, nei- crashed ashore, the study team the past, is resolutely staying out of Yingluck Shinawatra today to mander, Thanasak Patimapakorn, polls on Feb 2. ther the government nor the said. the fray this time, despite appeals discuss the vote date. refused to be drawn on whether That argument was bolstered protesters showed any sign of AGENCIES from anti-government protesters. With protests aimed at toppling elections should be postponed. by the shooting on Sunday in backing down. REUTERS TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 PAKISTAN / AFGHANISTAN 14 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

Officials warn of Two militants Taliban attacks Kabul to free 37 prisoners killed in north ISLAMABAD: The Pakistani Taliban may be planning Waziristan attacks on tourists in the coun- Washington condemns order to release ‘dangerous insurgents’ ISLAMABAD: Pakistani try’s mountainous north, where security forces killed yes- 10 foreign climbers were massa- KABUL: Afghanistan said yes- strain US-Afghan relations, amid of the remaining prisoners was to the deaths or wounding of 11 terday two militants in an cred last year, officials warned terday it expected to release pressure for the two countries to continuing. Afghan and 42 US or coalition operation against gunmen in yesterday. Thousands of tour- within two weeks a first batch sign a long-delayed security deal Amid resurgent Taliban vio- soldiers. the northwestern part of the ists visit Gilgit-Baltistan and of alleged Taliban prisoners allowing some American soldiers lence, US-Afghan relations are Bagram was the main deten- country. Chitral each year, many drawn whom the US says are respon- to stay in the country after 2014. strained over a number of issues tion centre housing Taliban and Pakistani military sources by the area’s impressive moun- sible for dozens of Nato and Abdul Shukur Dadras from including President Hamid other insurgents captured by the said security forces shelled out tains and glaciers, including the Afghan deaths. the government body reviewing Karzai’s refusal to sign a pact Western military forces until it hideouts of militants at Mir Ali world’s second highest peak K2. Kabul announced last January detainees at Bagram, which was governing Washington’s future was transferred to Afghan control positions in north Waziristan Pakistan has seen a surge in 9 that a total of 72 detainees held previously run by US forces, said 37 military role in Afghanistan. last year. tribal area killing two militants militant attacks in recent weeks at Bagram jail near Kabul would prisoners would be released soon. “The ARB (Afghan Review After taking control of the and injuring others. and officials are warning these may be freed due to lack of evidence, “Their dossiers are reviewed, Board) is releasing back to society facility, Karzai appointed the Pakistani forces have been spread to the north as the spring and an official said yesterday that completed and we have ordered dangerous insurgents who have ARB to investigate and reassess launching attacks and combing tourist season gets under way. 37 were to be released initially. their release,” Dadras said. Afghan blood on their hands,” the the detainees there. operations for a week in this “The interior ministry has offi- The US military force in “They will be released from the US military in Afghanistan said Last Saturday Karzai said area in search of militants as cially informed Gilgit-Baltistan Afghanistan condemned the news prison after the required techni- in a statement. Bagram, while under US people in the region continued that the Pakistani Taliban can of the releases, saying the prison- cal and security procedures are It said 17 of those about to be administration, was “a Taliban- to flee to sake refuge in safe strike the region,” a senior offi- ers were “dangerous insurgents” completed. This will, I think, take freed were linked to improvised making factory” -- indicating nearby areas. cial of the Gilgit-Baltistan admin- who had “Afghan blood on their more than one week and less than explosive device attacks, the it turned Afghans against their The Pakistan Army is the istration said on condition of hands”. two weeks.” deadliest of the Taliban’s weap- government. land-based uniform service anonymity. AFP The issue threatens further to Dadras also said the review ons, while others were connected AFP branch of the Pakistan Armed Forces. The Pakistan Army came into existence after the independence of Pakistan in Food donation 1947. Police powerless Rebels blow up gas pipeline against street violence BALOCHISTAN: A pipe- line, carrying natural gas, ISLAMABAD: It is a pity to Lahore-based lawyer Saad was blown up in Balochistan’s that law enforcers lately have Rasool. Dera Bugti district, south not been able to do much about Meanwhile, data compiled west of Pakistan, disrupt- the large-scale violence on our by Aurat Foundation and other ing the gas-supply to the Sui streets. So much of violence for women’s rights NGOs shows that plant from well number 15 in such a long time we have seen crimes against women such as Pir Koh gas field. that we have grown immune to burning incidents, acid throwing, A Levies official said that it. domestic violence and murder unidentified miscreants had But that is outside of a house. have risen at an alarming rate planted an explosive device on Within the four walls, rampant over the last decade. the 16 inch diameter pipeline violence against women goes on, The Sindh government passed in Pir Koh gas field. and the law still does not recog- its DVB on March 8, 2013, fol- The device detonated with nise it as cognizable. lowed soon after by Khyber a huge bang causing extensive The Pakistan Penal Code does Pakhtunkhwa (K-P). damage to the gas pipeline. not even cover domestic violence, However the Islamabad Capital The supply of natural gas making attempts to seek redress Territory (ICT) bill is still pend- from well number 15 to the Sui cumbersome for victims as they ing. It is currently being revised plant was suspended as a result have to pass through the proce- by a legal consultant at the of the blast. dural rigours of the penal code. National Commission on Status A similar attack was carried The situation requires separate of Women (NCSW). out last week, where the pipe- legislation. “The biggest hurdle is lack of line supplying natural gas to While the provinces of Sindh political will and commitment Sui purification plant from well and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa have to gender justice” rights activist number 41 of Pir Koh gas-field passed their respective bills, Tahira Abdullah said. was blown up. Islamabad Capital Territory’s However, she cautiously added, Domestic Violence Bill (DVB) still “I will not speculate on the cur- Poisonous water remains a weak draft. rent government’s intentions. In a country where domes- Let us see how the revised DVB fills Swat river tic violence is largely consid- is treated once the women par- An Afghan girl (right) greets a friend as she carries a box of high energy biscuits received from the World Food ered a private affair, the need liamentarians table it in the KHYBER Programme (WFP) to her refugee camp in Kabul. Economic development is vital for stopping the country from for legislation on this count National Assembly.” PAKHTUNKHWA: The becomes even greater, according INTERNEWS sinking back into civil war and stemming Islamist extremism, authorities said. commotion at Swat river in northwest Pakistan yes- terday morning evoked images of the California Gold Rush hordes of men, jos- ‘Sense of urgency’ key to overcoming socio-economic crises tling for their bit of glitter. Unfortunately, instead of gold nuggets, the crowds, knee ISLAMABAD: An official of urgency” in Pakistan and that the sectors. Inability to invest in these countries in the region. Amendment which has set new deep in the river, were actu- the United Nations Development approach of “business-as-usual” sectors affects future growth Pakistan can learn from coun- directions for Pakistan as a fed- ally panning for something Programme (UNDP) has sug- continued. Xu concluded his visit rates as well as human resource tries in South Asia to accelerate eral, democratic and parliamen- silver dead and dying fish. gested a three-pronged strategy to Pakistan on Saturday. development. its progress towards achieving tary state, and UNDP is helping Hundreds of residents from - for reducing poverty, building The government and its insti- There were low allocations in MDGs. Pakistan achieve these objectives, Mingora and Kanjo in Swat capacity to deal with calami- tutions should have a “sense social sectors, particularly in the About government reforms, the Xu said. had rushed to the banks near ties, and ensuring effective of urgency” because Pakistan education sector, he pointed out. UNDP official said holding general On the cross-cutting gender Ayub Bridge carrying hooks, governance - and said a “sense is now lowest in the Human He said there was a need to election alone was not enough. issues, Xu said Pakistan should sheets and nets, hoping to of urgency” is needed at the Development Index of the world, build the capacity of making the The voice of the people must be enhance the role of women in catch what seemed to be poi- national level to overcome the according to the UNDP official development projects sustainable, heard, establishing accountability social, economic and political soned fish, floating on the riv- socio-economic and manage- who has previously served in the adding that this was a big chal- and making people-oriented poli- matters. er’s surface. ment crises Pakistan faces. country. lenge for Pakistan. cies as governance is now on the At present, the women partici- Rafiq Khan, who lives near Haoliang Xu, UN Assistant The economic growth rate is Talking about Pakistan’s per- global agenda. pation in the parliament is 22 per the river, also rushed down to Secretary-General and UNDP not satisfactory because of budg- formance on the Millennium Pakistan is passing through cent, which needs to be enhanced get his easy catch of the day. Regional Director for Asia and etary pressures and fiscal deficit, Development Goals (MDGs), he a very critical phase in the to 30 percent as in the case of It was his understanding that the Pacific, said in an interview which have shrunk the govern- said the country fared poorly implementation and transition parliaments globally. under the cover of the night, that he did not find “a sense of ment’s ability to invest in social when compared to the other management following the 18th INTERNEWS someone had poured poison in a small pond which leads to the river, causing thousands of fish Garbage picker to become floaters. Karachi top user US, Pakistan start strategic talks of illicit cigars ISLAMABAD: National Corporation, USAID, United economic relationship with KARACHI: Despite all the Security and Foreign Affairs States Trade Representatives Pakistan and it was also efforts put in by the Federal Adviser Sartaj Aziz arrived in and the Department of Pakistan’s largest market. Board of Revenue (FBR), Washington for US-Pakistan Treasury will also attend the “We have an interest in illicit cigarettes still account strategic dialogue which seeks plenary session. Pakistan’s economic develop- for one-fourth of the country’s to redraw a blueprint for a Pakistanis will also have sepa- ment. And we have an interest total cigarette consumption, future relationship between rate meetings with their counter- in Pakistan’s domestic security,” costing the exchequer more the two allies. parts at departments of defence, he said. than a quarter of a billion The dialogue, which begins energy, and at the White House “Pakistan is large, populous, dollars in tax losses, accord- yesterday, resumes after a three- with the US National Security a nuclear armed nation, and it’s ing to an international study. year gap and will focus on eco- Adviser. important that its constitutional In 2012, illicit tobacco nomic and security cooperation “There will be a real oppor- order and democratic processes trade was 25.4 percent of the between the two countries. tunity for a robust discussion,” continue to be strengthened.” total cigarettes consumed in “The security dialogue will on economic cooperation, said “One of the points of discus- Pakistan, according to Asia-11: focus on issues like reconciliation another senior US official sion will be how are things going Illicit Tobacco Indicator 2012, in Afghanistan and how Pakistan while briefing the media on in Afghanistan, what are the an international study com- is addressing its own internal the talks. prospects for this year. piled by the International Tax security challenges and what if Water and Power Minister The Pakistanis, for instance, and Investment Centre and anything the United States can Khawaja Mohammed Asif will have encouraged Afghanistan Oxford Economics. do to help in that regard,” said a also participate in the talks with to go ahead and complete the Pakistani government, senior US official. other senior officials from vari- Bilateral Security Agreement,” according to the study, lost There will be a plenary session ous departments. the official added. $275m in fiscal year 2012-13 to kick off the Strategic Dialogue “Pakistanis in particular have A US official explained that in potential taxes as a result which Aziz will chair while US really tried to move this rela- the United States had been of illicit tobacco trade. The A Pakistani resident collects recyclable items from garbage in Islamabad Secretary of State John Kerry tionship to a much more trade- encouraging Pakistan to improve amount is 17 percent of the yesterday. Cash-strapped Pakistan, plagued by a bloody homegrown will lead the US team. based one as opposed to just its relations with India and had country’s current account defi- Taliban insurgency, is battling to get its shaky economy back on track Senior representatives assistance,” the United States welcomed Prime Minister Nawaz cit, which stood at $1.58bn in and solve a chronic energy crisis that cripples industry. Economists say from the US Department of official said. Sharif’s initiatives aimed at the first six months of FY14. growth needs to be seven percent to absorb the booming population. Defence, Energy, Overseas The United States, he said, achieving this goal. AGENCIES Private Investment already had a direct bilateral INTERNEWS TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 INDIA www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 15 We’re battle ready, going to win: Rahul Modi government was “abetting and pushing” the 2002 riots, says Congress vice-president

NEW DELHI: Asserting that But he sidestepped questions said that he was not “driven by apologise for the riots in which thing” he has done in his political prove themselves and one can see “we are battle ready and we are on why the Congress failed to the desire for power” and was an more than 3,000 Sikhs were killed career has been to bring in young- what they are doing and one can going to win”, Congress vice- act against former Maharashtra “anomaly in the environment” he in Delhi, Gandhi veered away sters. “I am absolutely against the see exactly how much they have president Rahul Gandhi yester- chief minister Ashok Chavan or was in. from the topic. concept of dynasty, anybody who proved themselves,” Gandhi said. day said in his first television Himachal Pradesh chief minister Gandhi did not directly answer Asked how Modi government knows me knows that and under- Gandhi rejected the contention interview that he was not thirst- Virbhadra Singh who had been persistent questions about Modi’s was “aiding and abetting the riots” stands that.” that the party had propped AAP ing for power but was out to implicated in corrupt deals. jibes at him. “The BJP has prime since the court has given him a But, in the same breath, he said to divide anti-Congress vote. “change the system” that would Gandhi took potshots at ministerial candidate, the BJP clean chit, Gandhi said: “I mean that it cannot be wished away as Gandhi said his dream was open up opportunities for young Bharatiya Janata Party’s prime believes in concentration of power it’s not me...it’s the large number it is a closed system. Gandhi said to make the country powerful. people, empower women and ministerial candidate Narendra in the hands of one person, I fun- of people who were there, large he did not get driven by the desire “I want to reject the way we do make India a manufacturing hub Modi, saying his government was damentally disagree with that, I number of people who saw actively for power. “For me power is an politics,” he stated. Asked if he of the world. He also said Modi “abetting and pushing” the 2002 believe in democracy, I believe in the Government of Gujarat being instrument that can be used for was not named a prime ministe- government was “abetting and riots and the BJP believes “in con- opening up the system. I believe in involved in the riots.” certain things... it’s not interest- rial candidate of his party because pushing” the 2002 riots. centration of power in hands of the RTI, I believe in giving power On the Congress preparedness ing to own it, to capture it or to he feared defeat, he shot back: In an over one hour interview one man”. to our people. We have funda- for the battle ahead, Gandhi said: hold it.” “Defeat just makes me stronger” with Arnab Goswami, editor-in- Gandhi described Aam Aadmi mentally different philosophies,” “I think we will defeat the BJP in “Maybe it’s because of my fam- and said he took victory or defeat chief of TIMES NOW news chan- Party leader Arvind Kejriwal as “a he said. the next elections.” Gandhi also ily circumstances and what hap- in his stride and was here for the nel, Gandhi said he did not choose leader of an opposition party like He said the Gujarat govern- dwelt on the pain of the circum- pened to my family. Power per se, long term and will not run away. to be born a Gandhi but was a many others”. “There is absolutely ment was “actually abetting and stances in which he grew up. the quest for power, the thirst for Gandhi to said India has to “serious politician” who stood for nothing I am scared of,” Gandhi pushing” the 2002 riots and the “In my life, I have seen my power is not there in me. What is look at manufacturing. “We have “opening up the system” and the said in between volley of ques- difference with the 1984 riots was grandmother die, I have seen my there in me, is a desire, a strong already set up the corridors north, election this time would be fought tions related to Modi but avoided that during the anti-Sikh riots father die, I have seen my grand- desire to reduce the pain that south, east and west, how we can between those who want “deepen- answering a question on whether the then Congress government mother go to jail and I have actu- people feel,” he added. “Frankly take the energy of the Indian ing of democracy” and those who he would agree to a direct debate “was trying to stop the killing” ally been through a tremendous in a lot of ways, I am an anomaly people and build a manufactur- stood for “concentration of power”. with Modi. “We are debating the while Modi’s government was amount of pain as a child when in the environment that I’m in.” ing superhouse.” “I want to put He deflected pointed questions issues everyday...” he said plainly. “allowing” it to happen. these things happen to you. Gandhi said that Congress had India on the manufacturing map, thrown at him regarding corrup- Several times in the interview, Gandhi also acknowledged that “I don’t actually keep invoking decided to support AAP in form- I want to make this the centre tion by Congress party govern- Gandhi, 43, said his focus was on “some Congress men were proba- my family name, I have mentioned ing government in Delhi to see of manufacturing in the world. I ments, whether in New Delhi or empowering people, particularly bly involved” in the 1984 anti-Sikh my family name once or twice and how much they prove themselves. want to make this place at least as in the states, but said that “any- women, bringing in youngsters riots that followed the assas- then people report that,” Gandhi “We thought we would assist much as a manufacturing power one who does any act of corrup- in Congress and taking every- sination of then prime minister said in response to a query. them, because our party felt we as China,” Gandhi said. tion will be punished”. one together. The Congress scion Indira Gandhi. Asked if he would He said that “every single should give them a chance to IANS

Beating the Retreat rehearsal Jains declared AAP legislator calls off minority ‘fast’, to protest again community NEW DELHI: The Jain NEW DELHI: Expelled AAP said yesterday that unlike other community has been included legislator Vinod Kumar Binny governments, the AAP has in the list of minorities, an called off his hunger strike cleared a number of develop- official statement from the within hours of starting it yes- ment works in the one month it minority affairs ministry terday but threatened to launch has been in power. “We are not said yesterday. They will be another protest against the here to do politics or to save our in addition to the five com- Delhi government soon. government,” he said. munities already notified “We are giving 10 days time as a minority. These are to the Delhi government. If our 98 LAKH PEOPLE JOIN Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, demands are not met, we will Meanwhile, 98 lakh people Buddhists and Zoroastrians lunch a movement against the have become members of the (Parsis). The cabinet last Aam Aadmi Party,” Binny told the Aam Aadmi Party and regis- week approved notification media after calling off the fast. tration will be open till the Lok of Jains as a minority com- Earlier, he began his protest Sabha polls, party leader Gopal munity at the national level. at the Jantar Mantar area in the Rai said. “Till January 26, a total The change was made by a heart of the capital, accusing the of 98 lakh people have joined the government notification last one-month-old Arvind Kejriwal party from all over the country,” week. Jains comprise 0.4 government of not implementing Rai said at a press conference at percent of India’s population its campaign promises. the party office. and in the 2001 census, were Binny was expelled from the Giving the break-up, he said 76 about 42 lakh-strong. Their party on Sunday, about 10 days lakh joined the party through the Border Security Force soldiers ride their camels in front of the Rashtrapati Bhavan during a rehearsal for the population is now estimated after he turned a rebel. The AAP form registration service, seven “Beating the Retreat” ceremony in New Delhi yesterday. The ceremony is held every year on January 29. at around 50 lakh. Once rec- has also terminated his primary lakh through the online service, ognised as a minority, they membership of the party. five lakh through SMS and 10 will get a share in central The legislator, who defeated A lakh by giving “missed calls” on funds earmarked for welfare K Walia, the health minister in AAP phone. The AAP launched schemes and government the previous Sheila Dikshit gov- the free membership drive earlier programmes as well as schol- ernment, from the Laxmi Nagar this month, targeting one crore Govt allows A380s to fly in the country arships. They can also man- assembly constituency in east members by January 26. age and administer their own Delhi, has been attacking the Rai said that during the “Main educational institutions. AAP government for allegedly Bhi Aam Aadmi” (I am also a NEW DELHI: More travel during the peak travel season. benefit from this move,” Ankur backtracking on promises made common man) drive, many peo- options and lower fares await “A380s will help bring down Bhatia, member, Confederation of Mithun to contest for in the election manifesto. ple also illegally became members, air passengers after the govern- fares and improve the cost com- Indian Industry’s panel on civil Another AAP leader, Tina but their names were later scru- ment yesterday allowed Airbus petitiveness of the Indian tour- aviation, said. Other industry RS seat from Bengal Sharma, who joined him in the tinised and removed. A380, the world’s largest pas- ism sector. They will improve the insiders said the move will allow KOLKATA: Bollywood actor protest, said: “This is a fight on “A separate team has been senger aircraft, to fly into the efficiency and capacity utilisation the formation of a new marketing Mithun Chakraborty and four issues. The AAP has breached the constituted to look after the ille- country. at Indian airports,” Amber Dubey, and seat pricing category in the other candidates filed their trust of people.” gal membership registrations The civil aviation ministry partner and head - aerospace and Indian market. nominations yesterday for A few supporters of India and take initiatives to curb such lifted the ban imposed in 2008 defence, KPMG, said. Major international passen- the February 7 Rajya Sabha Against Corruption (IAC) also activities,” said Rai. on the ground that operation of The super jumbo which can ger carriers such as Singapore elections from West Bengal. extended support to Binny. On the AAP’s first list of candi- A380s could work against the accommodate up to 853 in a sin- Airline, Emirates and Lufthansa Chakraborty, who has been “Kejriwal’s priority is not to save dates for the Lok Sabha elections, interest of Indian carriers. gle-class configuration is expected have shown interest in operat- named candidate of the rul- the government and work for the party national secretary Pankaj Industry insiders said not just to increase the parking, housing ing A380 aircraft in India on ing Trinamool Congress, later welfare of the people. His prior- Gupta said as the AAP has till passengers, but airport opera- and landing (PHL) component of various international routes. said he would work for the ity is to run away from promises now received around 5,000 forms tors also are expected to benefit airport’s operators’ revenues. At present only four airports — people and the state. “I have he made to the people during the from 250 constituencies, the veri- from the revocation of the ban “The decision (to allow A380 Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and always worked for the peo- elections. But I won’t let him run fication process was taking time, on Airbus A380s’ operations in operations) is positive for the Bangalore — have the required ple. I will continue to do so. I away from his responsibilities,” thereby delaying the release of the India. It is expected that A380s industry, especially for airports infrastructure for handling A380 will highlight the interests of said Binny. candidates’ list. operations will increase airport which have limited slots. Mumbai, operations. the state,” he said after for- Refuting the charges, Kejriwal IANS revenues and help in decongestion which has a space constraint, will IANS mally joining the fray. Three other Trinamool nominees — painter Jogen Chowdhury, Bengali daily Kalam’s editor Charity trip Ahmed Hassan and K D Singh — also filed their papers for Delhi court summons BJP the polls which will elect five candidates from the state to the upper house of parliament. leaders in defamation suit Man surrenders in NEW DELHI: The Delhi High tarnishing his reputation. The Court yesterday summoned media organisations are accused gold heist case BJP parliamentarian Anurag of running slanderous news HYDERABAD: A man Thakur and his brother Arun against Chandrashekhar and has surrendered in the sen- Singh Dhumal in a Rs3 crore his company, linking them with sational Rs5.97 crore gold defamation suit filed by an Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister heist from a leading jewel- industrialist for linking him and Virbhadra Singh. lery shop here, while another his company with the Himachal “Due to their malicious campaign accused is still at large, police Pradesh chief minister. against his company, the share val- said. The accused, Kiran Justice A K Pathak, issuing ues have come down, and he has Kumar, reached a televi- summons, sought responses from suffered a great deal as some of his sion channel’s office late on Thakur, Dhumal and nine media foreign clients have sought clarifi- Sunday and informed the organisations by March 3 on the cations regarding the allegations,” staff that he stole the gold businessman’s plea. The business- the suit said. The defamation suit ornaments from Tanishq man accused them of a “malicious said that in October 2013, Anurag showroom in Punjagutta on campaign” against his company. Thakur, also vice-president of January 24-25. Hyderabad V Chandrashekhar, CEO of the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Police Commissioner Anurag Delhi-based Tarini Group of Association, and his brother Arun Sharma said nearly 15.57kg Valerie Trierweiler (second right), former companion of French President Francois Hollande, leaves a Nutrition companies, who has a project Kumar Dhumal, levelled baseless of gold ornaments and pre- Rehabilitation Centre in a slum in Mumbai yesterday. Trierweiler is in the country for a charity trip. in Himachal Pradesh, sought allegations against the chief min- cious stones were recovered. from the accused compensa- ister and his family members. IANS tion of Rs3 crore for allegedly IANS TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 16 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MORNING BREAK

PRAYER TIME Thieves steal  News in Numbers    Pope John CHART: 1 3 114 Fajr (Dawn) 5:00 3 Shorook (Sunrise) 6:19 Paul’s blood Zuhr (Noon) 11:47 Asr (Afternoon) 2:53 from church Maghrib (Sunset) 5:16 ROME: Thieves broke into a Isha (Night) 6:46 small church in the mountains east of Rome over the weekend and stole a reliquary with the blood of the late Pope John Paul WEATHER II, a custodian said yesterday. Franca Corrieri said she had discovered a broken window Today Wednesday Weather Thursday Conditions: early on Sunday morning and Partly cloudy Clear Clear had called the police. When they Misty to entered the small stone church foggy at first they found the gold reliquary and a crucifix missing. LINES OF BUSINESS-SPECIFIC PROSPECTS 2 High: 23° High: 25° High: 25° becoming Low: 14° Low: 17° Low: 18° hazy and John Paul, who died in 2005, partly cloudy. loved the mountains in the Abruzzo region east of Rome. He As in 2012, survey participants consider engineering, marine cargo and would sometimes slip away from liability reinsurance as the most profitable lines of business. Engineering the Vatican secretly to hike or ski stands out, benefiting from a generally good quality of contractors, DOHA - SUN & SEA there and pray in the church. Polish-born John Paul, who international standards of risk management and limited catastrophe SUN TIDE SEA reigned for 27 years, is due to exposure. Marine cargo, too, is consistently profitable, mainly due to the SUNRISE | SUNSET HIGH | LOW WIND be made a saint of the Roman Catholic Church in May, mean- small number of players and the niche character of the business. The 06:19 17:16 03:15 & 13:30 10:30 & 20:15 05-10/15 KT ing the relic will become more noteworthy and valuable. performance of liability reinsurance is supported by a low, although rising, THE REGION TODAY TOMORROW In 2011, John Paul’s former pri- degree of litigiousness. vate secretary, Cardinal Stanislaw HI/LO WEATHER HI/LO WEATHER Dziwisz, gave the local Abruzzo community some of the late pon- The most profitable lines of business MUSCAT 25/18 Partly cloudy 27/19 Partly cloudy tiff’s blood as a token of the love KUWAIT 22/15 Chance of rain 21/15 Partly cloudy he had felt for the mountainous BAHRAIN 22/17 Partly cloudy 23/18 Partly cloudy area. It was put in a gold and glass  SANAA 25/08 Partly cloudy 24/08 Partly cloudy circular case and kept in a niche RIYADH 28/15 Partly cloudy 29/15 Partly cloudy 24 of the small mountain church of MentionsM DUBAI 27/17 Partly cloudy 26/18 Mostly cloudy San Pietro della Ienca, near the  BAGHDAD 20/09 Chance of storm 19/09 Partly cloudy city of L’Aquila. Corrieri said the incident felt  THE WORLD TODAY TOMORROW more like a “kidnapping” than a 17 theft. “In a sense, a person has HI/LO WEATHER HI/LO WEATHER been stolen,” she said by telephone.  14 She said she could not say if ATHENS 14/11 Rain 14/08 Partly cloudy the intention of the thieves may WASHINGTON -5/-11 Partly cloudy -3/-12 Partly cloudy have been to seek a ransom for  SYDNEY 29/20 Clear 27/19 Clear the blood. LONDON 12/07 Chance of rain 10/04 Chance of rain Apart from the reliquary and  PARIS 08/04 Chance of rain 06/03 Chance of rain a crucifix, nothing else was sto- ISTANBUL 10/08 Mostly cloudy 15/04 Chance of rain len from the isolated church, even MANILA 28/22 Partly cloudy 28/22 Partly cloudy though Corrieri said the thieves  DHAKA 26/15 Partly cloudy 27/15 Clear would probably have had time Engineering Marine Cargo Liability DELHI 21/10 Partly cloudy 21/09 Partly cloudy to take other objects during the ISLAMABAD 23/06 Partly cloudy 25/06 Partly cloudy night-time theft. Source : http://www.qfc.com.qa REUTERS Hunt on for croc after South Koreans gorge on online dining shows

INCHEON, South Korea: surprising amounts of money to giving her an average monthly are on a diet,” she said minutes boy taken in Australia Park Seo-yeon sets the table thousands of online diners while income of about $9,400. before a recent broadcast. with dishes of Korean beef, serving up a sense of community Park, 34, said the most she She checked on the chatroom SYDNEY: Police and rangers saying (it’s) high time to cull croc- kimchi casserole and rice. in the wealthy Asian country’s earned in one sitting was 1.1m while eating a Korean-style beef were yesterday hunting a croco- odiles,” said Justin O’Brien, chief Switching on her computer and increasingly solitary society. won ($1,000). She began her show tartare called yukhoe. “Let’s eat dile that snatched a 12-year-old of the Gundjeihmi Aboriginal camera, she begins to eat alone Known as The Diva, Park as a hobby three years ago but has together. Together!” Park said, boy from a northern Australian Corporation. as thousands of viewers watch broadcasts for up to three hours since quit her job at a consulting responding to a viewer’s message waterhole, with shoot-to-kill There are periodic calls for and chat with her in real time every day from her apartment firm and plans to get into retail- that said: “I just rushed off and orders for any creature longer crocodile culls after fatalities in over the Internet. outside Seoul. During the show, ing. “People enjoy the vicarious picked up yukhoe”. than two metres and fresh calls the Northern Territory but their South Korea’s latest fad — viewers send her virtual balloons pleasure when they can’t eat this In modern South Korea, fami- for a cull. numbers are such that it’s histori- gastronomic voyeurism — offers worth 100 won (9 US cents) each, much or find that food at night or lies are fragmenting as old social The boy was swimming with cally been considered impractical. ties break down. friends in the Mudginberri Rangers set a trap in Magela One-person households are Billabong in the Northern Creek late yesterday and pre- set to increase from 25.3 percent Territory’s Kakadu National Park pared to continue searching the of the total in 2012 to 32.7 per- on Sunday afternoon when the waterways by boat through the cent in 2030, the fastest rate in group was attacked. One other night, though Constable said the rich countries that make up boy suffered bite wounds as he efforts would be scaled back. the Organisation for Economic tried to fight the creature off. “We’ve done the sprint, now Co-operation and Development, Aerial, land and boat searches we’ve got to pace ourselves,” he research papers show. “Loneliness in and around Magela Creek, said. is another crucial factor,” Park which feeds the billabong or Parks officer and crocodile spe- said. “The show is addictive as you waterhole, continued throughout cialist Garry Lindner said a 2-3 can communicate with thousands the night but there was no sign metre crocodile was sizeable, par- of people at home.” of the boy. ticularly up against a child. About 3,500 people are running The NT Parks and Wildlife Lindner said flooding due to the food-eating shows and some hit Commission gave rangers the local monsoon season was com- programmes are sponsored by order to shoot dead any croco- plicating the search, leaving the restaurants. “It feels as if I am dile longer than two metres 200-metre waterway more than the one eating that much,” Park (6.5 feet) sighted in the area of a kilometre wide. Sun-young, a 26-year-old viewer Mudginberri Outstation, which is Saltwater crocodiles can grow of The Diva’s broadcasts, said at about 200 kilometres (124 miles) up to seven metres long, weigh an Internet cafe. “It is comforting east of Darwin. more than a tonne, and are a for people who eat alone.” The order had originally been common feature of Australia’s The Diva said she is not sim- for animals bigger than three tropical north. ply making money from a food metres but was expanded after Their numbers have increased binge but is a providing a benefit examination of the bite marks on steadily since the introduction to society. the boy who escaped revealed that of protection laws in 1971, with “It feels great when people said the croc responsible was between government estimates putting the ‘I recovered from anorexia thanks 2-3 metres. population at 75,000-100,000. to you’ or ‘Thank you for a fun Two crocodiles were shot and The most recent fatality was and delicious time’,” she said. cut open overnight, but they had in August last year, when a man Park Seo-yeon eats in front of a video camera during her eating show in her apartment in Incheon, west of Seoul. AFP not ingested any human remains. was taken by a 4.7-metre croc as “One 4.3 metres; one 4.7 he swam across the Mary River. metres,” Sergeant Stephen Parks officials said the Magela Constable said of the creatures. Creek area was well signposted as “We’ve since had a look at both a crocodile danger zone. crocodiles and neither of them “We have big croc warn- N’Dour ready to be flag-bearer of peace had anything in their stomachs.” ing signs with croc jaws and a The local Aboriginal people, big thing saying ‘croc risk; do the Mirarr, called for a cull of the not swim here, do not enter’,” a DAKAR: Senegalese music “We can participate in bringing “the people there will listen and Neneh Cherry, N’Dour has collab- predatory reptiles around Jabiru spokeswoman said. icon Youssou N’Dour has said he peace to this country which is so dear we are also willing to talk to them” orated with Peter Gabriel, Sting, following the incident. Australian researchers is ready to travel to the Central to us,” he said. N’Dour, a Muslim, is in their own country, if required. Wyclef Jean, Paul Simon, Bruce “Mirarr traditional owners are launched the world’s first African Republic to spread his collaborating with Central African The Grammy-winning musician Springsteen and others. crocodile attack database, message of peace amid inter- singer Lydie Natacha, who goes by has over 20 albums to his name His music is a fusion of Senegal’s CrocBITE, last month, hoping religious violence which has the stage name of Idylle Mamba and and has long been involved in popular Mbalax style with samba, to firm up anecdotal reports torn the country apart. is a Christian. social and humanitarian issues. He hip-hop, jazz and soul, tackling that harmful or fatal incidents Speaking late on Sunday at the He “decided to associate the is also a businessman and was in political and social issues. are increasing. recording of a single dedicated to voice of a Christian from the 2012 appointed a government min- Mamba is from Bangui, which Sunday’s attack in Kakadu is reconciliation in Central Africa, Central African Republic with ister, first in charge of culture and has been the scene of horrific the 11th fatality recorded so far N’Dour said artists had a role in his (to) encourage strong inter- tourism and then only tourism. violence pitting Muslim fight- this year by the CrocBITE team, talking about world events such national solidarity to restore a He is now an adviser to ers and Christian militia against which is based at Australia’s as the CAR crisis and that music definitive peace” to the coun- President Macky Sall. Best each other following months of Charles Darwin University. “allows us to take shortcuts” to try, according to his spokesman known in the West for his “Seven tensions. AFP speak to a wider audience. Charles Faye. N’Dour said that Seconds” hit collaboration with AFP Tuesday 28 January 2014 27 Rabial I 1435 Volume 18 Number 5958 Price: QR2

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Call to ease barriers in setting up businesses The restriction of having minimum 51pc Qatari ownership is one of the barriers, says expert

BY MOHAMMAD SHOEB is one of the barriers to the crea- and mid-size enterprises by pro- element that keeps it vital. New easy access to the inexpensive tion of profitable business and moting local entrepreneurship, he things are constantly evolving labour market. DOHA: Easing some of the bar- investment. By focusing on low- said: “Entrepreneurs can always through innovation. Industries “Qatar has a lot of opportuni- riers in setting up profitable busi- ering those impediments would do impossible things.” that were, 30-40 years ago, con- ties to exploit these competitive nesses and a vibrant legal system be helpful spurring the develop- He continued saying that the sidered as lucrative businesses are advantages. The enormous level that is more market responsive ment and diversification of the Middle East, including Qatar, now out of fashion.” of investments in education and will help enhance the pace of eco- economy.” offers some particular challenges He cited the example of Apple human capital is an experiment nomic diversification in Qatar, an He said that Qatar, while main- because entrepreneurship has and Steve Jobs, who turned it as which has never been tried on expert has said. taining a careful control on the always been a part of the Middle the world’s largest business entity. this scale by any other country. I “Qatar does most of the things energy sector — “the lifeblood of Eastern culture. “Things have changed the way expect that it would pay huge div- quite right. However, if there the economy” — can allow com- However, it has not been able to the world works. I absolutely idends to create a modern society. are certain areas where it can petition and investments in busi- maintain the same degree of con- see no reason why that kind of “The government needs to improve is the ease with which nesses outside the hydrocarbons tribution to the world economy as creativity and revolutionary inno- modernise its legal system to companies are established,” industry. compared to its energy sector, but vations can’t come from this cul- make it more market responsive. said Dr S Thomas Emerson, Emerson has served in vari- the accomplishments the National ture. After all, Jobs was an Arab It will have great positive out- Distinguished Career Professor ous organisations. He was the Vision 2030 is expected to bridge descendent whose ancestors were come,” he said. of Entrepreneurship at Carnegie President and CEO at Arizona the gap. Jordanians,” he said. Qatar remains one of the three Mellon University-Qatar Technology Incubator, Xantel Referring to the evolution of He also noted that Qatar has top markets for companies doing (CMU-Q). Corporation and also the digital music, which has replaced many competitive advantages, business in the Middle East region Dr Emerson, while speaking Chairman of Syntellect. the traditional music industry, he such as low energy cost, probably with more than $200bn worth of with The Peninsula recently, said: Speaking on Qatar’s efforts in said: “It is often said that capi- the lowest in the world, strategic major projects due to be awarded Dr S Thomas Emerson “The restriction of having mini- achieving industrial diversifica- talism is the process of creative geographical location, huge area in the years to 2030. mum 51 percent Qatari ownership tion by establishing vibrant small destruction, and it is the very of undeveloped land and relatively THE PENINSULA

Auto show Real estate loans by Brent falls NEW YORK: , Oil prices fell yesterday as investors kept banks up to QR85.4bn dumping risky assets on worries about weaker growth in emerg- ing markets. Brent crude fell 81 DOHA: The assets and liabili- QR36bn. Credit to the services cents to $107.07 by 1857 GMT. ties of Banks in Qatar have and contractors rose by QR0.2bn Brent’s premium to US oil was increased by QR13.1bn, up 1.5 and 0.9bn respectively. While the mostly flat, hovering near Friday’s percent to reach QR915.9bn credit facilities to the services sec- settlement of $11.24. The spread in December 2013, compared tor amounted to QR44.8bn, facili- had traded as tightly as $9.47, its to QR902.8bn at the end of ties to the Contractors amounted lowest price in more than two November 2013. Total credit to QR23.3bn. credit facilities to the months, on Friday. US crude oil facilities to the real estate sec- industrial sector rose by QR1.6bn futures showed some resistance in tor increased by QR2.5bn to to QR11.6bn and “other sectors” the $97 to $98 range where prices QR85.4bn in December. saw decrease of QR1.1bn to QR5bn. ended last week. Figures of the consolidated bal- Banks’ investments in securi- The US Fed will conclude its ance sheet of the banks published ties outside Qatar decreased by regular two-day meeting tomor- by Qatar Central Bank (QCB) QR0.2bn to reach QR25.4bn and row. Analysts said the central show the Banks’ deposits at the distributed bonds and Sukuk bank was intent on cutting the QCB decreased about QR3.7bn worth QR22.1bn, shares and oth- stimulus again in spite of the to reach QR31.5bn in December. ers QR3.3bn. sharp sell-off of emerging market The government and public sec- Banks’ deposits or assets with assets in Turkey, Argentina and tor deposits have also decreased banks outside Qatar increased elsewhere. by QR1.4bn to QR230.1bn in by QR7.5bn to reach QR68.6bn. REUTERS December. On the other hand, the Lloans to parties outside Qatar Children climb into a 2014 Chevrolet Corvette for a test drive at the St Louis Auto Show in St. Louis. total government and the public increased by QR1bn to reach sector loans increased by QR2bn QR42.3bn. In contrast, liabili- to reach QR239.7bn. ties of local banks to foreign The Group Securities that banks decreased by QR7.4bn to analyzed the QCB data noted the QR120.7bn and debts of local Masraf Al Rayan’s net profit rises to QR1.7bn total local private sector deposits banks to parties outside Qatar at banks by the end of December in form of Bonds, certificates of increased by around QR11.8bn to deposit and other decreased by DOHA: Masraf Al Rayan recorded a net profit the strong economy of Qatar and its growth 7.98 percent. Return on Assets reached 2.56 reach QR277.4bn in addition to qR0.7bn to reach QR45.6bn. of QR1.7bn for the year 2013, an increase of 13.2 potential as expected by many in the coming percent. QR7.3bn deposits of non-banking Deposits or assets of banks with percent compared to the year 2012. years, which shall allow greater contribution The bank’s financing activities registered a financial institutions. other local banks decreased by The financial results for 2013 were approved from the financial sector in support of the total of QR41.44bnn compared to QR41.79bn The total loans and credit QR0.3bn to become QR17.7bn, also by the Board of Directors of Masraf Al Rayan economic development of the State of Qatar a year ago, a decrease of 0.67 percent. facilities provided by domestic liabilities of local banks from other in a meeting held yesterday. The Board rec- and the realisation of the 2030 vision. Investments increased to QR16.56bn from banks to the domestic private banks inside Qatar increased by ommended to the general assembly a cash Adel Mustafawi, Group CEO of Masraf Al QR14.55bn, up 13.8 percent. Total customers’ sector in December increased by QR0.2bn to QR16.9bn. dividend of QR1.50 per share, representing Rayan, noted that the financial results were deposits also rose to QR48.33bn compared to around QR4.4bn to QR286.3bn Banks’ capital and reserves 15 percent of the paid-up share capital, subject achieved due to considerable efforts made by QR45bn, an increase of 7.4 percent. in addition to loans worth settled at the level of QR114.8bn. to the approval of Qatar Central Bank (QCB). the Board, management and staff supported Shareholders’ equity before proposed dis- QR6.9bn for the non-bank finan- Other non-classified liabilities Announcing the results, Dr Hussain Ali Al by a clear vision and action plan which also tribution increased to QR 10.52bn compared cial sector. increased by QR0.7bn to reach Abdulla, Chairman and Managing Director of successfully guided everyone in the Bank to to QR9.59bn a year ago, reflecting an increase The total credit facilities to QR39.2bn. Banks’ assets of cash Masraf Al Rayan, said the results reflect the achieve the set objective. of 9.7 percent. Book value per share reached the real estate sector increased and precious metals increased by bank’s strategy implemented in an effective Mustafawi said that there was noticeable QR14.03 and earnings per share QR2.27. The by QR2.5bn in December. Loans QR0.1bn to the level of QR4.4bn manner to enhance Masraf Al Rayan’s stand- growth in many activities as total assets annual ordinary general assembly meeting is and credit facilities to the trade in December 2013. ing as one of the leading banks locally and reached QR66.54bn compared to QR61.62bn scheduled to be held on March 3, 2014. sector grew by QR1.4bn to reach THE PENINSULA regionally. He also expressed his confidence in as of December 31, 2012, a growth rate of THE PENINSULA

South Korea’s economy grows QNCC’s net profit Tasweeq sells 45 million tonnes of rises to QR436m petrochemical products in 2013

DOHA: Qatar National Cement DOHA: Qatar International Petroleum Marketing Company Ltd Company (QNCC) has announced (Tasweeq) sold a total of 45 million tonnes of petrochemical prod- a net profit of QR436m for the ucts during the year 2013. The company’s monthly shipment totaled year ended December 31, 2013 as 130 per month during the year. against a net profit of QR425.3m Talking to reporters, Tasweeq CEO Saad Abdullah Al Kuwari in 2012, according to a Qatar said Asian markets are Tasweeq’s major destinations. Japan, Korea, Exchange notification. Thailand, Vietnam, India and China have emerged as its top markets. The company has reported an Tasweeq is ready to support Qatar’s future plans for the expansion earnings per share of QR8.88 in of petrochemical sector. “We are keen on supporting the expansion 2013 compared to QR 8.66 in 2012. plans of Qafco and Ras Laffan Refinery.” On Tasweeq’s diversification The Board of Directors have pro- of fund resources, Saad Abdullah said: “In terms of funding resources, posed to the general assembly the we just go by the banks which are top rated by the ratings agencies. distribution of cash dividend of It’s not true that we are depending on banks of any particular region or Pedestrians wait to cross a street in Seoul yesterday. South Korea’s economy grew at a slightly slower 0.9 per- QR6 per share representing 60 country… We are not involved in project financing.” He said currently cent in the fourth quarter of last year, as falling construction investments offset a rise in exports. percent of the nominal value of the 46 percent of Tasweeq staff are Qataris. By 2015, at least 50 percent share. QNA of total staff will be Qataris, he said. THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 18 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Turkey reaches crisis point over lira’s plunge Central bank calls meeting today after heavy intervention in markets fails to stop a run on the currency

ANKARA: Turkey ramped up the base rate, and sharply raised to the US monetary policy, but precautions which are necessary bank held key interest rates crisis over the corruption scandal action in its increasingly desper- short-term rates. the government describe the lat- for price stability,” the bank said unchanged, leaving its key over- that ensnared key allies of Prime ate defence of the lira yesterday It also began measured inter- est pressure pushing the cur- in a statement. night rate at 7.75 percent. Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, with the central bank calling a vention on the foreign exchange rency down to record low levels The decisions will be announced Reinhard Cluse, economist as well as concerns about the crisis meeting, prompting ana- market but last week it was as “temporary”. at 2200 GMT after today’s meeting, at Swiss bank UBS, said that if economy and payments deficit. lysts to forecast a policy U turn forced to intervene directly and The lira rallied slightly to it added. The bank will also release the central bank did not deliver But government officials insist and big rate rise. heavily, but to little effect. 2.3168 shortly after the announce- its quarterly inflation report today. “drastic policy action”, selling of that the strains are merely The bank called the meeting Economists suggested that an ment of the policy meeting which Economists said the news of the the lira and loss of confidence “temporary” in nature. “There today after heavy intervention emergency interest rate rise could came after the currency had hit crisis meeting suggested that would increase sharply. is no need to panic,” local media on the currency markets failed be in the pipeline, but warned another record low value against Turkish policymakers had realised “Time to hike aggressively,” said quoted Economy Minister Nihat to stop a run on the lira, amid that Turkish monetary policy was the dollar of 2.39 in morning that their efforts to tighten mon- Inan Demir, chief economist at Zeybekci as saying. severe pressure on several emerg- “extremely unpredictable”. trading. The main Istanbul stock etary conditions without raising Istanbul-based Finansbank. The government is worried ing markets. Some economists said that index gained by 0.12 percent to official rates had failed. Jackson said the bank’s foreign that a rate rise could jeopardise The currency crisis increases the bank could at least raise the 64,504.46 points. “It’s not clear whether policy- exchange reserve coverage was growth which it has forecast will difficulties for the government, overnight lending rate to 9.0 per- Since the middle of last year makers will summon up the cour- “extremely thin,” making inter- pick up from an expected rate of already facing a political crisis, cent from the existing 7.75 per- the central bank has spent heav- age to defy government pressure vention “fairly ineffective”. 3.6 percent in 2013 to 4.0 percent and which has fought against a cent, while others called for more ily from its currency reserves. and hike official policy rates,” The central bank reportedly for this year — down from more base rate rise for months as the aggressive action to obtain results This has won only short-lived and economist William Jackson at the sold about $4bn of foreign cur- than 8.0 percent achieved in 2010 lira has plunged. and bolster the bank’s credibility. costly respite each time. “The London-based Capital Economics rency from its reserves last week and 2011. The European Bank for In the middle of last year the Turkey is a high profile victim Monetary Policy Committee is to said. — equivalent to a tenth of its net Reconstruction and Development central bank resorted to complex of pressures piling up on emerg- convene on January 28 to evalu- After its monthly policy meet- reserves. The fall of the lira is has cut its forecast to 3.3 percent. techniques rendering inoperative ing economies sparked by changes ate recent developments and take ing last week, Turkey’s central rooted in an escalating political AFP

UAE may import Gulf economies to natural gas from stay robust despite North America LONDON: The United Arab Emirates said yesterday that cheaper oil: Poll it was looking at the possibility of importing natural gas from North America, in what would DUBAI: Gulf Arab econo- linked to the 2022 soccer World be one of the most striking mies are likely to keep grow- Cup tournament picks up after a developments since the start of ing robustly over the next two slow start. However, the increased the US shale boom. years as government spend- activity may also propel Qatar to The United States and Canada ing remains high, even though the top of the Gulf inflation rank- are producing record amounts of somewhat softer oil prices may ings, with consumer price growth gas from shale rock formations, cut into government revenues, a seen averaging 3.9 percent this pulling down North American Reuters poll showed yesterday. year and 4.2 percent in 2015, the prices to levels that have attracted Saudi Arabia’s gross domestic highest rates since a record 15 the interest of foreign buyers. product is expected to expand 4.2 percent in 2008. Around a dozen long-term percent in 2014 and 4.3 percent Overall, price pressures are deals, each worth billions of dol- in 2015, after slowing to a four- seen edging up gradually across lars, have recently been signed year low of 3.8 percent last year, the Gulf in the next two years, behind closed doors between U.S. predicted the poll of 17 analysts, although forecasts for 2014 were producers and buyers in China, conducted this month. reduced for most countries com- Japan, Taiwan, Spain, France “GCC (Gulf Cooperation pared to September’s poll. and Chile as global demand for Council) growth prospects remain With the exception of deficit- gas increases. favourable, supported by high oil ridden Bahrain, public finances in A man passes before a share prices board in Tokyo yesterday. Japan’s share prices fell 3850.83 points to close “We may follow the same trend prices, a steady flow of govern- the Gulf Arab welfare states are at 15,005.73 on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, following a sell-off on Wall Street and as the dollar sank against the of considering investments in ment spending and in some cases expected to remain sound enough yen on concerns over emerging economies. the United States and Canada an increasingly buoyant private for governments to raise spend- to bring some of that gas back sector,” said Daniel Kaye, head ing if needed to support economic home,” UAE Oil Minister Suhail of macroeconomic research at growth. But heavy fiscal spend- bin Mohammed Al Mazroui said National Bank of Kuwait. ing, which has been powering the European indexes slide further at an energy conference here. In the United Arab Emirates, Gulf’s economic boom over the Rapidly rising demand and slow the second largest Arab economy, past two decades, is now likely to LONDON: European stocks $1,260.50 an ounce on the London Shanghai gave up 1.03 percent. production growth have made the gross domestic product growth is grow at a much slower pace than slid further yesterday on Bullion Market from $1,267. Traders will also now be look- Opec member a net importer of seen holding steady at 4.3 percent before, as an expected decline expectations of further stimu- While European markets were ing to this week’s Fed meeting to gas over the past few years. in 2013-2015, a tad below 4.4 per- in oil receipts prompts more for lus withdrawal by the Federal hit at the open by a sell-off on see if it announces any further The UAE’s Abu Dhabi National cent in 2012. spending restraint. Reserve adding to emerging Asian markets, by afternoon cuts to its stimulus programme, Energy Company has already Analysts raised their 2014 Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and market strains, but avoided most had trimmed their losses, which could provide a further hit invested in Canada’s oil and gas UAE growth forecast markedly Oman have since last month another sell-off. but then sank again after data to emerging markets. sector but so far has not been pub- from 3.6 percent in the previ- released budget plans suggesting However London’s benchmark showed US new home sales fell 7 The US central bank last licly involved in North American ous Reuters poll, conducted in much slower growth of expendi- FTSE 100 index tumbled 1.70 per- percent in December. month announced its first cut in natural gas export projects. “The September, because of a strong ture. Riyadh’s 2014 budget plan cent to close at 6,550.66 points, US stocks rebounded slightly its bond-buying programme by UAE is seriously thinking about revival in Dubai’s property sec- sees a rise of just 4 percent com- taking hits from sharp falls for on opening, following Friday’s two $10bn-a-month to $75bn, citing that now,” the minister said. tor and the boost to investor pared to the original 2013 budget, the share prices of British energy percent rout, but turned down by a pick-up in the economy, and REUTERS confidence after the emirate in the slowest rate since 2003. company BG Group and mobile midday. The Dow Jones Industrial analysts widely expect it to make November won the right to host Crude oil prices, now around phone giant Vodafone. Average was off 0.08 percent at another cut of $10bn. the Expo 2020 world’s fair. $108 per barrel, are forecast to Frankfurt’s DAX 30 gave up 0.46 15,866.57 points, while the broad- On the corporate front, shares US new home “Indeed, the challenge for the ease gradually to $103 in 2014 and percent to 9,349.22 points despite based S&P 500 gave up 0.36 per- in BG Group dived 13.8 percent UAE now is not how to stimulate $100 in 2015, as a shale boom in a sharp rise to German business cent to 1,783.93 and the tech-rich to 1,082 pence after the company sales fall growth, but how to manage its pace, the United States and increasing confidence, while in Paris the CAC Nasdaq Composite Index fell 0.93 warned that annual output would and avoid the pitfalls that led to output in Iraq keeps the market 40 shed 0.41 percent to 4,144.56 percent to 4,089.75. miss expectations and would cut WASHINGTON: Sales of the crisis of 2008,” HSBC’s regional well supplied, a separate Reuters points. Madrid fell 1.12 percent Playing catch-up with Friday’s the value of assets by $2.4bn in new US single-family homes economists Simon Williams and survey found last month. As a while Milan shed 0.44 percent. heavy losses across European Egypt and the United States. fell more than expected in Liz Martins wrote in a note. result, Saudi hydrocarbon export In foreign exchange trading, indices and on Wall Street over Vodafone tumbled to 223.55 December, but lean invento- Fellow Opec member Qatar is revenues may slip as far as a the euro edged up to $1.3676 emerging market concerns, Asian pence after US telecoms giant ries and steady price gains expected to keep outperforming median $290.4bn in 2015 from from $1.3675 in New York late on stock markets closed sharply AT&T said it was not planning to suggested the housing market the other five GCC states with 5.5 $297.3bn this year and $317.4bn Friday. The British pound rose to lower. Tokyo tumbled 2.51 per- launch an offer for mobile phone recovery remained intact. percent growth in 2014 and 6.0 in 2013, this month’s poll showed. 1.2125 euros from 1.2050 and to cent, Seoul fell 1.56 percent, group amid fresh rumours of a Economists largely shrugged percent in 2015, as construction REUTERS $1.6574 from $1.6479. Gold slid to Hong Kong dived 2.11 percent and mega bid. AFP off the second straight month of decline in sales, blaming frigid temperatures. Other data showed an acceleration in services sec- GM chief at Adam Opel House tor growth in January, backing views of sustainable strength in Malabar Gold to open two the economy. “It’s cold out there for the economy. The drop in new home more outlets in Qatar sales is not a sign the economy at large is starting to slow in a DOHA: Malabar Gold and Diamonds, one of the world’s largest gold worrisome manner,” said Chris and diamond retailers, opens three more showrooms in the Middle Rupkey, chief financial economist East this week that will strengthen its presence in the region. at Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ The company, which is on a massive expansion drive, opens its 106th in New York. outlet in Ruwais Mall, Abu Dhabi on Wednesday (January 29), 2014. The Commerce Department They will also be opening their 107th and 108th outlets in Qatar by said new home sales fell 7 per- the end of this week. The outlets in Qatar are in Grand Mall, near cent to a seasonally adjusted Karwa headquarters, and at Barwa Village, Al Wakrah, and will be annual rate of 414,000 units. Sales inaugurated on January 31. were at a 445,000-unit pace in The moves are part of the $700m (Dh2.5bn) expansion drive November and economists had announced by Malabar Gold and Diamonds. “Last year, we had made expected them to slow to only a an announcement to become the world’s number one jewellery retailer 457,000-unit rate in December. by expanding our network of retail outlets to 220 by the end of 2015,” Last month’s decline in sales M P Ahamed, Chairman of Malabar Group, said. “The move requires was likely a continuation of the courage, conviction and strong commitment as well as massive utilisa- payback after October’s outsized tion of resources including $700m investment. “These new openings 14.9 percent increase. Sales in are part of that process and reflects our determination to implement the Northeast, which was hard the growth plan and we will execute this as per our plan.” hit by cold temperatures, tum- The retailer operates 32 outlets in the GCC countries and one in bled 36.4 percent to their slowest Singapore. In UAE, Malabar Gold operates 14 showrooms in Abu Dhabi, pace since June 2012. Home sales Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and Al Ain. They are planning to open six new are traditionally weak during the Mary Barra, the Chief Executive Officer of General Motors (GM), stands in front of an Opel Insignia Country showrooms in the UAE within the next two months. In Qatar, they winter, but a cold snap last month Tourer at the Adam Opel House in Ruesselsheim, Germany, yesterday. Mary Barra is on her first foreign trip have outlets in Gharafa and Al Khor. The group is also set to unveil could have exaggerated the mag- after taking over the leadership of General Motors two weeks ago. eight more retail outlets in the Middle East — 2 each in Qatar, Oman, nitude of the slowdown. Saudi and Kuwait by the end of March 2014. THE PENINSULA REUTERS TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 19

German business morale climbs Iraq plans state investment bank Qatar bourse to push projects

DUBAI: Iraq plans to establish a state-funded investment bank index down to help finance big infrastruc- ture projects and steer money towards private sector compa- nies which need it, a senior gov- ernment official said yesterday. An underdeveloped, ineffi- 0.47 percent cient banking system has hin- dered efforts to mobilise funds for investment in Iraq. Bankers Dubai extends losses; Egypt rises at a financial conference here yesterday described how some DOHA: Qatar Exchange ended Dhabi Commercial Bank , bucked Iraqi corporate executives car- in the red when trading closed the trend and climbed 0.9 percent ried around tens of thousands of yesterday at 11,245.86 points, after posting estimate-beating dollars in cash to settle transac- down 53.10 points or 0.47 per- earnings growth of 40 percent. tions that are too inconvenient to cent from the previous closing In Saudi Arabia, petrochemi- do through the banking system. of 11,298.96 on Sunday. cal shares caved in under selling “We need this (state-funded Among the top losers were pressure; the sector’s index lost investment bank) to push forward Commercial Bank of Qatar whose 1.4 percent — the main drag on A container ship makes its way to the loading terminal in Hamburg. German business morale climbed in January the economy,” Sami Al-Araji, share was down 0.69 percent to the wider market, which fell 0.9 to its highest level since July 2011, suggesting Europe’s largest economy is on track for a strong start to 2014 chairman of the National QR72.40, International Islamic lost percent. “Petchem firms were after growing only modestly last year. Investment Commission, told 1.43 percent to QR69, Barwa Real already hit by bad earnings in Reuters on the sidelines of the Estate fell 1.57 percent to QR31.40 some blue chips and the negative conference. “Our existing com- and Islamic Insurance decreased indicators from demand in China, mercial banks do not have the by 2.52 percent to QR62. which is the main client for skills or experience.” Meanwhile, UAE shares fell Saudi petchem prices, is adding The new institution, further as retail investors took to the gloom in the picture,” said Egypt’s economy to grow by 2pc Investment and Development the flight from emerging mar- Abdullah Alawi, assistant general Bank of Iraq, would receive 1 per- kets elsewhere as a cue to book manager and head of research CAIRO: Egypt’s economy will year to end-June 2013. Three years of political uncer- cent of annual state budget allo- profits, while lower oil prices at Aljazira Capital. Saudi Basic only grow by 2.0 percent in the “In Egypt, pressures on the tainty and protests have hit cations over seven years under a weighed on Saudi petrochemi- Industries Corp, which posted fiscal year ending June 2014, external position eased in 2013,” Egypt’s tourism industry, tradi- proposal that will be sent to par- cal shares. forecast-trailing fourth-quarter well below the government tar- said Daniel Kaye at National tionally one of the country’s big- liament for approval, he said. In contrast to the hardest-hit earnings, fell 0.9 percent. get of 3.5 percent, according to a Bank of Kuwait. Supported by gest source of foreign currency. That arrangement, if it goes emerging markets, there was no Egyptian shares were not Reuters poll of economists who more than $12bn in Gulf aid, Protests in late 2012 sparked ahead, could eventually provide sense of panic in Dubai. But local affected by the selling in emerg- lowered their forecasts once Egypt introduced a 30bn Egyptian a run on the currency that cost the new bank with over $10bn to retail investors have dominated ing markets. Cairo’s benchmark again. pound ($4.3bn) stimulus pack- the central bank billions of dollars invest; this year’s state budget is the market in the past year and index climbed 0.6 percent. Chances for an economic age in 2013 and plans to launch to bring under control. Yesterday, estimated at 174.6 trillion dinars their selling snowballed yester- rebound were hurt by violence and another one of about the same the central bank announced an ($150bn). day; the index lost 1.2 percent, HIGHLIGHTS political turmoil after Islamist size later this month. exceptional auction to sell $1.5bn. Despite the militant violence adding to Sunday’s 2.2 percent DUBAI: The index dropped 1.2 president Mohammed Mursi was However, political turmoil also The latest poll forecast that the plaguing Iraq, the economy has drop as the market pulled back percent to 3,688 points. ousted by the army on July 3 after made it less likely the government Egyptian pound would weaken to managed to keep expanding from last week’s five-year high. ABU DHABI: The index retreated mass protests against him. would make early cuts in energy 6.99 to the dollar by end-June and on the back of oil output; the Dubai recorded a whopping 0.9 percent to 4,528 points. The consensus of 10 economists subsidies, which make up 20 per- to 7.29 by end-June 2015. International Monetary Fund rise of over 100 percent in 2013 SAUDI ARABIA: The index polled by Reuters for 2.0 percent cent of state spending, prevent- The pound was trading at 6.96 forecasts annual gross domestic and it is still up 9.4 percent so declined 0.9 percent to 8,655 points. growth in the fiscal year to the ing it from directing resources to to the dollar officially in a bureau product growth of more than 6 far in 2014. Much of the buying in EGYPT: The index gained 0.6 end of June 2014 is down sharply investment. de change in Cairo and at 7.37 on percent from 2014 to 2018. recent weeks was on expectations percent to 7,257 points. from 2.6 percent in a poll con- Before the 2011 uprising that the black market, according to a Iraq already has 23 private con- for fourth-quarter earnings and OMAN: The index gained 0.2 ducted in September. toppled autocrat president Hosni trader. ventional banks and nine private annual dividends, but traders and percent to 7,157 points. The survey suggested growth Mubarak, the economy grew at The poll predicted that infla- Islamic institutions, as well as analysts say the market was due KUWAIT: The index eased 0.05 would accelerate to 3.3 percent about 6-7 percent annually for tion would reach 9.5 percent, both seven state banks and 16 foreign for a breather. percent to 7,781 points. in the year to June 2015, also several years. Even that pace in 2013/14 and the following fiscal banks operating in the country, Abu Dhabi’s index fell 0.9 per- BAHRAIN: The index slipped well behind the government’s 4.5 was barely enough to produce year, slightly lower than forecasts according to the central bank cent but the UAE’s third larg- 0.2 percent to 1,272 points. percent target. Egypt’s economy work for the number of Egyptian of 9.6 and 9.8 percent in the last website. est lender by market value, Abu REUTERS grew a meagre 2.1 percent in the youths entering the job market. survey. REUTERS REUTERS

People walk under a chain of currency exchange offices in central Moscow yesterday. Russian minister cheers ruble fall

MOSCOW: Russia’s economy But Economy Minister Alexei a Russian government that had minister yesterday welcomed Ulyukayev sounded an upbeat initially projected 2013 expansion the ruble’s rapid slide to historic note about the decline that is to come in at 5.0 percent and then lows as a boon for exporters likely only to spur further ruble accelerate in following years. that should help industry and selling. “I am not a proponent of Traders attributed the ruble’s promote stalling growth. stimulating the economy through latest drop to highly negative The ruble began trending lower an artificial weakening of the investor sentiment about emerg- in late December and has lost ruble,” Ulyukayev told Moscow’s ing markets and diminishing nearly two percent of its value Prime business news agency. central bank support for Russia’s against both the dollar and euro “But since what we have now beleaguered currency. in the last three trading sessions is not an artificial but a natural Moscow intends to introduce alone. The euro shot up one per- weakening ... then why not enjoy a fully floating exchange rate cent to 47.65 rubles in the open- its positive effects?” he asked. “This starting next year while shifting ing minutes before pulling back to will help improve the competitive- its focus to the fight against per- around 47.30 in evening trading ness of a range of industries,” the sistently high inflation—measures on the Moscow Exchange — still economy minister stressed. roundly applauded by economists above the 47.25 record it had set Central bank chief Elvira but feared by consumers. The in the worst months of Russia’s Nabiullina also told Russian televi- Russian central bank eliminated 2008-2009 financial crisis. sion that the ruble’s rate “was being some of its support measures for The dollar was trading at 34.60 set by the market” and gave no hint the ruble earlier this month and rubles after reaching a five-year of a plan to rush to the currency’s no longer spends $60m a day on low point of 34.80. “Like in any defence. Russia’s industrial produc- “targeted” intervention measures. panic situation, the future is tion was flat last year amid weak It still makes between $200 becoming rather hard to predict,” investment and reduced demand million and $400 million a day in Austria’s Raiffeisen Bank observed. — both domestic and foreign — for ruble purchases when the Russian The latest moves prompted the such factory staples as steel. currency slips outside the bounds US investment giant Goldman The Rosstat official statistics of a predetermined trading band. Sachs to revise its year-end fore- agency reported yesterday that But the central bank reserves cast for the dollar to 35.20 from capital investment had actually the right to shift that trading cor- 33.50 rubles. declined last year by 0.3 percent ridor to a higher exchange rate It added that the euro would after initial expectations of a as pressure on the ruble mounts probably be worth 41.50 rubles by 2.5-percent rise. — a step it repeated for the third the end of 2014 rather than the And economic growth of about successive business day yesterday. 39.50 target it had originally set. 1.4 percent delivered a shock to AFP TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 20 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Japan, S Korean refiners to process less crude Regional supply cut cited as cause; demand in Europe tepid due to mild winter

SINGAPORE: South Korean expansion weakened domestic The average operating rate for less crude on year in the first The usual winter slowdown in and fuel oil, where strong prices and Japanese oil refiners that sales of diesel for transport and South Korean refiners is expected quarter, while Cosmo Oil Co has China’s agricultural sector should are helping to offset the weak account for about a third of Asian industry, China’s net exports of at 92.5 percent for January, trimmed its initial refining plan also keep its gasoil exports steady margins from distillates. exports of middle distillates are middle distillates rose by 7 per- energy consultancy JBC Asia said. for January by 9 percent citing at 75,000-100,000 b/d. Exports Overall profits from process- processing less crude than a year cent over July-December last year That compares with 94.8 percent sluggish domestic demand. could even rise with the start-up ing a barrel of crude into fuels ago, cutting runs during what is as compared with the previous six a year earlier, according to data The average profit margin to of two refineries in the first quar- in January are up $1.30 a bar- usually a high-demand quarter months. from state-run Korea National produce middle distillates from ter with a combined capacity of rel from a month ago, although due to a regional supply glut. Japan, Asia’s No. 3 oil con- Oil Corp (KNOC). Dubai crude in January is nearly 440,000 b/d, traders said. refiners may be cautious in ramp- Asia’s surplus of diesel and sumer, has also been exporting Operating rates for February $2 a barrel lower than the same Those start-ups would follow ing up runs significantly, as that other middle distillates developed more products as domestic con- and March are estimated at 90.2 month last year. Middle distil- the addition of 250,000 b/d of new would weigh on margins again. over the last year as China, Saudi sumption falls, helping to flood percent and 85.5 percent, respec- lates, which include diesel, kero- capacity in China in the second half “Better margins is a signal to Arabia and other key markets the market. At the same time, tively, JBC Asia said, down from sene and jet fuel, make up about of 2013 that helped build the cur- raise runs back up ... which will for exporters added refineries to demand in Europe, normally an KNOC’s estimates of 94.8 percent 40 percent of Asia’s oil product rent supply surplus. Underlining keep margins flattish,” said Alex cut their reliance on overseas oil outlet for Asian surpluses, has and 86.0 percent in 2013. Japan’s use and the health of their mar- the worry over Asia’s glut, state Yap, an energy consultant at FGE products just as regional demand been tepid due to a mild winter. top refiner JX Nippon Oil & gins is key to refinery profits. refiner PetroChina postponed Singapore. growth slowed. “Winter demand is no longer Energy Corp has twice announced Lacklustre demand for kerosene bringing online two additional Cracked marine fuel prices In top Asian consumer China, there, and we are approaching a cuts for January, bringing its run due to a less biting winter than refineries until 2016 and 2017. across Japan and South Korea refining capacity added in 2013 weak demand season,” a trader rates to 1.13m b/d, down 8 percent a year ago has seen JX planning Keeping runs low to balance are likely to stay at higher levels met oil consumption growth with a North Asian refiner said. from January 2013. to raise its oil product exports in an oversupplied middle distillates than last year due to the lower slipping to its lowest in two dec- “Product stocks are also high at Showa Shell Sekiyu KK has January to 152,000 b/d from an ini- market usually reduces supplies of domestic production, traders said. ades. As decelerating economic the moment.” said it will refine 1.5 percent tial plan of 132,000 b/d. other products such as naphtha REUTERS

Foxconn eyes factories MAF plans to invest Dh3bn in US and Indonesia in Dubai over TAIPEI: Taiwan’s Foxconn attractive costs and skills. That Technology Group, the major would tie in with Foxconn’s deal supplier of Apple Inc’s iPhones to design and market phones in five years and iPads, may build high-tech the country with BlackBerry Ltd factories in the United States as the Canadian company seeks to DUBAI: Dubai mall developer and low-cost plants in Indonesia reverse its decline in the smart- Majid Al Futtaim (MAF) said as the appeal of ‘made in China’ phone business. it will invest another Dh3bn fades into a burden. “Foxconn has no choice but ($816.7m) over the next 5 years Beset by rising costs and labour to do it,” said Danny Lee, a fund to expand its business in the unrest in China, Chairman Terry manager of Mega Financial emirate, seeking to take advan- Gou told employees on Sunday Holding’s fund unit. “China is no tage of a trade and tourism that Foxconn is considering longer a manufacturing hub for boom at its home base. diversifying away from its manu- companies worldwide, especially MAF, famous for building facturing heartland. The world’s so for the PC industry.” an indoor ski slope in Dubai, is largest contract maker of elec- In the US, Foxconn busi- expanding aggressively in the tronic goods has little choice if nesses like flagship unit Hon Middle East and aims to double it’s to protect margins and stay Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd, the size of its business by 2018. ahead of peers who have adapted Foxconn Technology Co Ltd and It has been helped by a tour- the Foxconn playbook into their FIH Mobile could take advantage ism-led recovery in Dubai’s own success stories. of geographical proximity to open economy since 2011, which ben- “The US is a must-go market,” up new deals with partners like efited from a safe-haven status said Gou, speaking at the group’s Apple as they develop new gadgets. amid the regional Arab Spring annual party to mark the end “I think they’re looking more uprising. of the Chinese year. Many cus- closely at the U.S. in order to About 70 percent of MAF’s tomers and partners have asked move closer to some of their big- assets are currently based in the Foxconn to open shop in the US, gest clients. Obama is also really United Arab Emirates. Gou said, with an eye on advanced pushing to return manufacturing The unlisted firm, which has manufacturing much closer to to America and boost employ- the sole franchisee of Carrefour their home base. ment opportunities,” said Kuo hypermarkets in the region, Workers load a container from a truck onto a cargo ship at a port in Tokyo yesterday. At the same time, Indonesia Ming-Chi, an analyst at Taipei- plans to invest over Dh3bn on will be a top priority this year as based KGI Securities. extending its Dubai businesses a potential production base with AFP over the next five years, it said Japan trade deficit at record high in a statement yesterday.

QATARI MARKET NEW HOTELS TOKYO: Japan’s trade deficit government spending with mas- NLI Research Institute, said he Bond Coupon Maturity Currency Mid-Price Yield Moody’s S&P This includes two new hotel swelled to a record $112bn in sive central bank monetary expected Japan’s trade deficit to Qatar Govt 5.15% 4/9/2014 USD 101.00 (0.07 %) Aa2 AA developments, renovating two 2013, official data showed yes- easing. “continue for quite some time”. existing hotels and redeveloping terday, as the benefits of a cheap But while the weaker yen has When the yen was trading Qatar Govt 3.125% 1/20/2017 USD 105.13 1.36 % Aa2 AA its flagship Mall of the Emirates. yen for the export-driven econ- boosted the bottom line at export- around 80 to the dollar in recent Qatar Govt 6.55% 4/9/2019 USD 119.63 2.50 % Aa2 AA It will also open four new omy were diluted by soaring ers such as Sony and Toyota, most years, many firms shifted produc- Qatar Govt 5.25% 1/20/2020 USD 112.88 2.89 % Aa2 AA Carrefour supermarkets in Dubai. post-Fukushima energy bills. have not slashed overseas prices tion away from Japan to cheaper Qatar Govt 4.5% 1/20/2022 USD 107.13 3.47 % Aa2 AA MAF chief executive Iyad The shortfall of 11.47 trillion to boost demand. bases overseas, a move that has Qatar Govt 9.75% 6/15/2030 USD 154.13 4.90 % Aa2 AA Malas said last week that it plans yen marked the biggest deficit “Import volumes are also ris- offset the benefits of a now-cheap Qatar Govt 6.4% 1/20/2040 USD 116.50 5.23 % Aa2 AA to invest about $2.3bn in Egypt in since comparable data started ing slightly faster than export yen for exporters, Saito said. Qatar Govt 5.75% 1/20/2042 USD 107.50 5.24 % Aa2 AA the next few years. in 1979, according to the finance volumes,” London-based Capital The unit has weakened to more “Future growth in the Middle ministry, with the December fig- Economics said after the annual than 100 against the greenback, Qatari Diar 3.5% 7/21/2015 USD 104.00 0.78 % Aa2 AA East and North Africa will be ure alone doubling from a year data were published. well down from the mid-70 levels Qatari Diar 5% 7/21/2020 USD 109.88 3.29 % Aa2 AA driven by regional large-scale earlier. “There are no signs that the in late 2012. “It is getting difficult Comqat 5% 11/18/2014 USD 103.25 0.91 % A1 A- expansion plans for our portfo- Exports rose 9.5 percent to weak yen is raising the competi- for Japan to boost exports because Comqat 3.375% 4/11/2017 USD 103.75 2.16 % A1 A- lios in Egypt in addition to new 69.79 trillion yen last year, their tiveness of Japanese exports,” it companies have shifted a lot of QIB 3.856% 10/7/2015 USD 104.13 1.38 % NR NR malls envisaged in the Kingdom first increase in three years but added, with the country’s share their production to foreign coun- QNB 3.125% 11/16/2015 USD 103.63 1.09 % Aa3 A+ of Saudi Arabia and Oman, and that was offset by a 15 percent of global exports little changed tries,” Saito added. QNB 3.375% 2/22/2017 USD 104.00 2.02 % Aa3 A+ residential projects in Lebanon,” jump in imports to their highest- despite the yen’s plunge against Japan has seen a mixed bag Malas said in the statement. ever level of 81.26 trillion yen. the dollar. “A major reason is that of data recently, but the govern- Doha Bank 3.5% 3/14/2017 USD 103.88 2.21 % A2 A- The unlisted firm said its rev- Imports of fossil fuels have exporters have been reluctant ment’s efforts to boost the econ- Qtel 3.375% 10/14/2016 USD 105.00 1.49 % A2 A enue for 2013 was Dh23bn, up 10 surged to plug an energy gap since to lower export prices,” Capital omy appear to be taking hold. Qtel 7.875% 6/10/2019 USD 123.50 3.09 % A2 A percent year-on-year. the 2011 Fukushima crisis forced Economics said. Growth in the first half of 2013 Qtel 4.75% 2/16/2021 USD 105.63 3.83 % A2 A Its earnings before interest, the shutdown of nuclear reactors Shipments to China rose 9.7 outstripped other G7 nations, Qtel 5% 10/19/2025 USD 100.88 4.90 % A2 A depreciation, taxes and amorti- that once supplied a third of the percent as demand recovered although that pace slowed in the Rasgas 5.5% 9/30/2014 USD 103.13 0.79 % Aa3 A zation (EBIDTA) from recurring nation’s power. following a consumer boycott on third quarter, while November Rasgas 5.832% 9/30/2016 USD 106.88 3.13 % Aa3 A operations grew by 12 percent At the same time the yen has Japanese brands that was linked inflation data suggested the Bank to reach Dh3.3bn, the company lost about a quarter of its value to a Tokyo-Beijing diplomatic row. of Japan was getting closer to its Rasgas 5.298% 9/30/2020 USD 107.75 3.96 % Aa3 A added, without providing full-year against the dollar since late 2012 Exports to the key US and goal of 2.0 percent sustained infla- SOVEREIGNS net profit figure. owing to a policy blitz by Prime European markets also improved. tion in two years. Bond PDA* Maturity Currency Mid-Price Yield Moody’s S&P REUTERS Minister Shinzo Abe that meshes Taro Saito, senior economist at AFP Abu Dhabi Govt 5.5% 4/8/2014 USD 101.13 (0.44 %) Aa2 AA Abu Dhabi Govt 6.75% 4/8/2019 USD 121.50 2.33 % Aa2 AA Dubai Govt 6.7% 10/5/2015 USD 108.13 1.77 % NR NR Dubai Govt 4.9% 5/2/2017 USD 107.25 2.57 % NR NR Dubai Govt 7.75% 10/5/2020 USD 120.50 4.20 % NR NR Dubai Govt 6.45% 5/2/2022 USD 112.63 4.59 % NR NR Argentina eases public’s access to dollars Qatar Govt 4% 1/20/2015 USD 103.38 0.52 % Aa2 AA Bahrain Govt 6.273% 11/22/2018 USD 114.00 3.12 % NR BBB BUENOS AIRES: Argentina eased unpop- (7,200 pesos) a month, Capitanich said. If their currency to prevent capital flight. Last week’s Bahrain Govt 5.5% 3/31/2020 USD 106.00 4.38 % NR BBB ular restrictions on dollar purchases for the request is approved, he said, they will be given decision to ease access to dollars was made first time in more than two years yesterday access to the dollars after 72 hours. after the Argentine peso suffered its worst Egypt Govt 5.75% 4/29/2020 USD 98.75 5.99 % Caa1 B- after allowing the peso to plummet in value The transactions will have to be approved single-day fall in more than a decade. Morocco Govt 4.5% 10/5/2020 EUR 103.00 3.98 % NR BBB- last week in a bid to stem capital flight. by AFIP, the national tax agency, he said. Since the beginning of the year, the peso has

*Periodic Distribution Amount The peso held its value in early trading Capitanich said the government has reversed lost about a fifth of its value, and the measure IMPORTANT NOTE: Monday at a little over eight to the dollar, a decision announced last week to lower a sur- was seen as a bid to halt that precipitous slide Published by HSBC Bank Middle East Limited, P O Box 57, Doha, Qatar which the financial website Ambito.com said. charge on dollar purchases from 35 percent to by boosting confidence in the economy. is licensed and regulated by Qatar Central Bank and Jersey Financial Services Buenos Aires kept a $2,000 monthly limit 20 percent. That surcharge now will remain The recent economic upheaval comes 12 Commission. Information quoted is from publicly available sources or proprietary on the amount of hard currency its citizens at 35 percent, he said. years after Buenos Aires roiled financial mar- data and subject to change. HSBC accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising out of the use of all or part of this material. This information is general and does not will be allowed to purchase, as the new policy Economist Rodrigo Alvarez said it was kets by defaulting on nearly $100bn in bonds, take into account individual circumstances, objectives or needs. The price of bonds went into effect softening currency restric- unlikely that the easier access to hard cur- unleashing a tidal wave of capital flight and can and does fluctuate. The secondary market for bonds may not provide significant tions in place since 2011. Jorge Capitanich, rency will lead to an end in black market runaway inflation. Argentines remain trau- liquidity or may trade based on prevailing market conditions. Past performance is not head of President Cristina Kirchner’s cabinet, trading. “We will continue to have parallel matized by the 2001 collapse, which wiped out a reliable indicator of future performance. You should consider these matters and consult your financial advisor prior to making any investment decisions. announced the limits at a news conference. markets,” he said. “Everything depends on the savings of millions of people from the mid- He said large businesses and investors will what happens once the spigot of dollars is dle class and saw the end of the peso’s fixed be barred from the hard currency purchases. opened, and that’s barely begun,” he said. exchange rate to the dollar. Instead, permission to purchase dollars will Buenos Aires made the announcement Officials said this week’s currency market be restricted to “salaried workers, profession- late last week that it was ending unpopular changes, which are a de facto devaluation of als, self-employed workers and small business measures put in place in November 2011 that the peso, are being put in place to avoid a owners,” provided they earn more than $900 had restricted Argentinians’ access to foreign repeat of that fiasco. AFP TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 BUSINESS VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 21

How bitcoin repeats Cameron’s fracking fairy tale BY CHRIS HUHNE green groups who want to leave fossil fuels However, there is a little snag with the in the ground, are quite capable of making prime minister’s logic. We have so many gold standard errors avos tends to turn the hardest of life miserable for the shale prospectors. pipelines connecting us to the continent heads. During the annual meet- They have to get planning permission, that if the price were lower here, some gas BY EDWARD HADAS ings, where businesses pay big and then face tricks such as buying up tiny trader would buy in Britain and export it. bucks to rub shoulders with strips of land and claiming trespass. Soon the prices would be virtually the same. cannot judge whether bitcoin represents a technological political leaders and thinkers, a In the US you drive by signs saying “Top For exactly this reason, energy prices were breakthrough, but I am confident that the pseudo-currency’s Dcontagious aura of smugness fills this Alpine dollar paid for gas rights”. Companies can no lower than Germany’s even when we popularity shows widespread economic amnesia. If bitcoin valley like a fog, killing much sense of reality. buy from residents who own the mineral were self-sufficient. I ever became a real currency, it would suffer from the crip- Politicians need a quick corridor story rights under their own land. In the UK, The reason they are lower in the US is pling problems of the gold standard. to sell their country’s virtues, and David mineral rights were nationalised during the because the shale gas revolution has hap- The underlying problem is the belief that the electronic token’s Cameron has landed on a peculiarly ill- first world war so people have little incen- pened more quickly than investors could independence from the government is a good thing. This libertar- informed one. Most narratives are falsifiable tive to back exploration. build export terminals, and the gas has been ian notion could hardly be more wrong. Money is a common good only with the passage of time, but Cameron’s Another problem is that shale has par- trapped in the home market, driving down for the whole society, and in the contemporary world governments story is demonstrably a fairy tale right now. ticularly taken off in low-regulation US the price. Even when the terminals are built, are the pre-eminent social guardians. The Cameron song is that Britain is going states, but thankfully it is unlikely that the the price will be substantially lower because It is true that under dire circumstances people might have to be “re-shoring” businesses – the opposite UK will want to relax environmental safe- of the very high shipping costs from North to resort to an inferior monetary substitute. If a government of offshoring – in part because of cheap gas guards such as protecting the water table. America. collapsed or totally trashed the monetary system, then some as fracking takes off: prices will fall as they UK politics is much more like that of New There is a final devastating flaw in privately issued money could be the least bad alternative. In such have in the US, where they are just a third York or New Jersey – both of which have Cameron’s argument. Imagine that we apocalyptic times, though, a software protocol which relies on of Europe’s prices. declared moratoriums on shale – than Texas are once again afloat on a jet-black sea of secure electronic communications would not be first choice. Gold, British consumers, whose bills will be or Louisiana. High environmental standards, fossil fuels: our energy prices may not be which is tangible and not subject to hacking, is more plausible. halved, will doff their caps to Tory minis- combined with planning controls, will inevi- lower, but our balance of payments will So are old baseball cards. But for the sake of argument, assume ters who made possible this revolution of tably slow down shale gas output. benefit enormously from lower oil and gas that bitcoin or something like it did actually become the leading cheap energy. Grateful billionaires will come Never mind my judgment, consider what imports; as a result, sterling is likely to currency in a monetary dystopia. People would learn soon enough gambolling back to bring new business to the great god of the marketplace thinks of become a more attractive currency to buy why non-government money works badly. Bradford and Bolton. the prime minister’s vision. There is a very – a “petro-currency”. Deflation is an obvious issue. Price declines are inevitable when This is not a vision but a fantasy. Britain’s obvious way of telling, because a company Then we would suffer from what used to a finite supply of bitcoin money, a feature of the software, meets geology has not yet been proved as suitable quoted on the Australian stock exchange be called the Dutch disease. The currency an expanding supply of purchased goods and services. That would for fracking. Poland underwent a frenzy of called AJ Lucas owns 42 percent of Cuadrilla, would strengthen, hitting trading businesses. be uncomfortable. Consumers might delay purchases as they wait over-excited hype about its shale gas depos- one of the most active UK shale gas explor- In the 80s, offshoring began in earnest when for prices to fall, workers might chafe at regular annual wage cuts, its, only to be cruelly disappointed by the ers. Its shares are still just a quarter of what we sharply increased oil and gas output. In and creditors would be even worse off. But in itself, deflation does detailed geology. The same may happen here. they were worth in 2009. other words, if the prime minister’s fantasy not discredit non-government money. People and banks could Assume, however, that our shale deposits Let us nevertheless suspend our disbelief, actually happened, the consequences would adjust to the new monetary reality, as the Japanese have to the are frackable. and assume that our brave frackers triumph be the exact opposite of what he supposes. country’s 0.3 percent average annual decline in consumer prices The second problem is that we have eight over all these adversities and succeed in pro- To sum up, shale may not happen. If it since 1998. Alternatively, a different non-deflationary electronic times as many people per square mile as ducing such vast volumes of natural gas that does, it will be slow. Even if it is eventually currency could be created; one which added steadily to the supply the US, and those pin-striped protesters in we once again become a net exporter of gas massive, prices will not drop. British indus- of money. If the addition was in line with GDP growth, prices and Balcombe, Sussex, are rather more likely to other countries, as we were until 2004 try, far from re-shoring, will be squeezed by wages could be roughly flat in normal times. to notice the lorry traffic needed to supply from the North Sea. the strong pound. Could the prime minister Yet times are not always normal, and neither bitcoin nor some a big shale gas pad than the good folk of This is the nirvana that Cameron believes please hire a respectable economic adviser putative “growcoin” – nor any sort of limited-supply money – can Oklahoma. will cause re-shoring because our energy with a memory? cope with unexpected bad news. Historians of money know the Those irate British nimbys, along with the prices will be so low. THE GUARDIAN story well. Before governments started to issue money purely by fiat, the supply of money was limited by the supply of gold or silver, supplemented by public or private notes which were theoretically backed by some valuable asset. Whenever people decided to hoard their hard currency and reject paper notes, there was trouble. The spur to the monetary fear might be war, crop failure or a bust financial institution. Whatever the cause, the sudden increase in caution automatically created a sudden decrease in the money for spending. The economic theorists of hard money said that wages and prices would also fall automatically, so the shrunken supply of currency would still be adequate to keep the economy running. In practice, the adjustment was always much too slow. Goods became unaffordable, unemployment rose and production fell. As the slow recovery from the 2008 recession shows, the policies haven’t always worked perfectly. But they could not work at all in a bitcoin economy, because there would be no authority which could decide how much new money to print. Indeed, the knowledge that governments could not create new bitcoins in a crisis would only increase thrift. Just as in the 19th century, a little bit of bad news would spawn a large economic crisis. The problem would be worse now than then, because the econ- omy relies so much more on bank-created credit. Whether banks use dollars, euros or bitcoins, they lend out most of their deposits. The loans increase the supply of spendable money, because the loaned sum is added to the total while the deposits which fund the loans are not subtracted. The arrangement is always potentially unstable. If the borrow- ers cannot repay too many of the loans or if depositors want to withdraw their money too fast, the bank may fall short of funds. A failure, and an ensuing panic, can only be avoided if banks can find cash elsewhere. The ultimate “elsewhere” is always the government, which can create new funds out of thin air. Government rescues are not ideal, but better than any known alternative. In a bitcoin or growcoin world, the government would have nothing to offer. Frequent bank runs and financial panics would be unavoidable. Charitably, the popular interest in bitcoin can be interpreted as a sign of ignorance of economic history. More realistically, it is a sad statement of a loss of faith in a monetary system which has not worked as well as promised. Unfortunately, bitcoin is no more than a high-tech version of an even worse system. REUTERS Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate George Osborne’s economic ‘recovery’ is built on sand

BY WILL HUTTON off Jeremy Paxman’s challenges over took more than five years to get here. in Stansted and Cambridge. 600,000 in total. A fifth of the new jobs are what is plainly one of the Bank’s more Back in 2010, I thought I was being enor- The Office for National Statistics part time, with most part-timers want- he chancellor is feeling good, egregious forecasting errors. The crea- mously pessimistic in predicting – against reports that 137,000 new professional, ing to work full time. What’s more, nearly very good. His critics are on the tion of 280,000 new jobs in three months the consensus – that Britain would not scientific and technical jobs were gen- half of all the jobs growth was driven by defensive. The IMF, warning was clearly good news, he declared. But get back to 2008 levels of output until erated in the most recent 12 months; self-employment: less an entrepreneurial Tonly a year ago that he needed a it did not mean he would consider raising 2014. It was ludicrous to try to cut spend- most of them were in these new “knowl- revolution, more redundant workers try- plan B, has now had to revise upward its interest rates until it was obvious that ing and the deficit so fast in the wake edge” towns, with smaller effects around ing to make a highly uncertain living as economic forecast for growth in 2014. Ed the recovery across a range of indicators of a near banking collapse and we would Manchester airport and North Yorkshire sole traders. The gap between London and Balls, the shadow chancellor, will reason- was more broadly based. He is right, even pay a high price in the longest period of near Leeds airport. Consultancy firm E the south-east and the rest of the country ably argue that his plans announced on if embarrassed that the signalling of his depressed activity for more than a cen- and Y reports that Britain is the home is becoming impossibly high, made worse, Saturday to eliminate the deficit between intentions with one simple economic indi- tury. So it has proved. to 485 multinationals’ headquarters as E and Y remarks, by the abolition of the current spending and receipts by 2020 cator is now murkier than he could ever I suspected that the Keynesian policy of (Germany has 86), and remains even in Regional Development Agencies. makes more economic sense. They do have wanted. flooding the financial system with liquid- 2013 the largest recipient of inward for- Outside the country’s hot spots, the pic- and, on top, allow for much-needed pub- For Osborne, it is all grist to the mill. A ity would eventually trigger the upward eign direct investment. ture is of bits-and-pieces jobs, public sec- lic investment. But politically the signal is possible rise in interest rates sooner than turn of the cycle, and that when it came it It is this nexus – technology rooted in tor employment in retreat, manufacturing that an Osbornean commitment to deficit he thought, maybe before the election? He would be surprisingly fast as the economy great universities, innovative start-ups employment stagnating and squeezed liv- elimination is the right starting point. could not be more relaxed, his aides let it tried to recover lost ground – what I have and small firms with loans collateralised ing standards. It is a reality that is vividly Better still, the British economy is be known, so confident is he about recov- described as a “snap-back”. against rising house prices, internation- revealed in Britain’s trade statistics: in creating jobs at a rate that not even the ery. He can afford magnanimity in his But what has surprised me is the pace alisation via our great airports and all the most recent three months the current Bank of England anticipated a mere six new role as economic seer and architect of job growth: 280,000 new jobs in three keyed into the buying power of locally account deficit was more than 5 percent months ago. The incoming governor, Mark supreme of a recovery the rest of Europe months last autumn and 450,000 over sited multinational headquarters that of GDP – despite the devaluation of the Carney, declared last August – “forwardly must envy. Austerity via deep spending 12 months is beyond what seemed likely is creating a new economy at a startling pound. The hot spots are too localised and guiding” expectations, as he was – that cuts works, he and his advocates would even given a strong snap-back. There is pace. This is happening spontaneously, built on too particular economic advan- he would only begin to consider raising argue, as long as you keep markets flexible a dimension to this recovery that rep- independently of politicians. Indeed, ele- tages. There is no pan-British economic interest rates when unemployment fell and tax incentives for enterprise strong. resents a strength in the economy that ments of the Tory party and Ukip, want- strength, hence the paucity of exports. No to 7 percent, a prospect the Bank then The first corrective challenge has to is underexamined and half-understood ing EU exit, are undermining one of its country can finance a deficit this large thought happily distant, something that be shouted from the rooftops. Capitalist – a burgeoning network of high-growth, key supports – EU membership. Every for very long: it is a harbinger of deep might happen in 2016. There was only a economies have rhythms of economic innovative, knowledge-intensive small or week, another great company says it will economic dysfunction. Osborne and his one in 20 chance, its analysis showed, this activity – periods of rapid growth and medium-sized firms clustered in “knowl- review its commitment to the UK. apologists delude themselves. There is could happen in the first quarter of 2014. periods of slowdown and recession. What edge” towns along the M40, M4 and M3 The rest of the job growth is hardly tes- certainly a full-throated economic snap- Instead, now there is a less than one in has been amazing about Osbornomics is motorways within 30 miles of Heathrow. timony to Osborne’s genius or a brilliant back, but the British economic model still 20 chance it won’t happen. not that finally Britain is in the upswing There are also similar effects along the economic future. Estate agents burgeon needs wholesale reform. Carney, interviewed in Davos, brushed phase of the economic cycle, but that it M23 around Gatwick and the M11, taking – up 76,000 over the last year to nearly THE GUARDIAN TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 22 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MARKET

QE Indices Summary QE Index 11,245.86 0.47 % WORLD STOCK INDICES GOLD & SILVER EXCHANGE QE Total Return Index 16,067.76 0.47 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 3,218.62 0.53 % RATE QE All Share Index 2,777.39 0.41 % INDEX Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low QE All Share Banks & Financial 2,646.7 0.58 % GOLD Buying Selling Services All Ordinaries 5254.337 -21.192 -0.4 5383.4 5215.5 QE All Share Consumer Goods & 6,016.02 0.44 % QR146.6338 US$ ...... QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 Services Cac 40 Index/D 4161.47 -119.49 -2.79 4351.21 4213.57 QE All Share Industrials 3,739.59 0.28 % SILVER UK ...... QR 6.0067 QR 6.0911 QE All Share Insurance 2,550.19 0.02 % Dj Indu Average 15879.11 -318.24 -1.96 16588.3 13710.1 Euro ...... QR 4.9344 QR 5.0029 QE All Share Real Estate 2,039.39 0.90 % QR 2.3660 CA$ ...... QR 3.2365 QR 3.3013 QE All Share Telecoms 1,635.28 0.42 % Egypt Cma Gn Idx 1026.29 32.57 3.28 999.95 312.38 QE All Share Transportation 1,949 0.63 % Swiss Fr ...... QR 4.0062 QR 4.0633 Hang Seng Inde/D 22450.06 -283.84 -1.25 23469.33 22567.77 Yen ...... QR 0.0347 QR 0.0354 QE Market Summary Comparison Aus$ ...... QR 3.1660 QR 3.2281 Today Previous day Iseq Overall/D 4716.73 -98.35 -2.04 4873.52 4522.4 CRUDE OIL 27-01-2014 26-01-2014 Ind Re ...... QR 0.0583 QR 0.0594 Index 11,245.86 11,298.96 Karachi 100 In/D 27002.89 -61.45 -0.23 27213.21 25273.11 Pak Re ...... QR 0.0343 QR 0.0349 Change 53.10 39.45 BRENT Nikkei 225 Index 15391.56 -304.33 -1.94 16164.01 15383.69 Peso ...... QR 0.0797 QR 0.0813 % 0.47 0.35 $ 107.61 SL Re ...... QR 0.0276 QR 0.0282 YTD% 8.35 8.86 S&P 500 Index/D 1790.29 -38.17 -2.09 1850.84 1485.01 Taka ...... QR 0.0464 QR 0.0475 Volume 8,717,748 7,966,702 DUBAI Nep Re ...... QR 0.0366 QR 0.0373 Value (QAR) 525,331,411.06 453,302,809.84 Straits Times/D 3075.99 -24.25 -0.78 3187.8 3098.95 SA Rand ...... QR 0.3297 QR 0.3362 Trades 5,567 4,713 Straits Times/D 2971.47 22.7 0.77 3035.78 2657.77 $ 104.05 Up 08 | Down 29 | Unchanged 04

QATAR EXCHANGE | DAILY TRADING REPORT | 27-01-2014

INTERNATIONAL MARKETS A List of Shares from the world

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

A C C-A/D 999.9 -20.05 17814 Cimmco-T/D 17.2 -0.9 1015 Hind Org Chem-/D 9.95 -0.2 1578 Kinetic Eng-B/D 39.8 1.85 6229 Rallis India-B/D 163 -2 22250 Land Secs Grou/D 1048.9946 3 2848887 Aarti Drugs-B/D 215.2 -4.95 1970 Cipla-A/D 414.85 -4.55 57640 Hind Unilever-/D 565.9 -1.35 82092 Kopran-B/D 23.8 -1.2 33070 Reliance Indus/D 340.9 -11.05 60395 Legal & Genera/D 218.1 -4.3 22166236 Aban Offs-B/D 397.5 -19.4 185591 City Union Bk-/D 50.35 -0.1 11182 Hind.Petrol-A/D 232.55 -2.95 81231 Lloyd Metal-B/D 8.49 -0.11 2785 Ruchi Soya-B/D 32.7 -0.9 32226 Lloyds Bnk Grp/D 81.37 -1.67 144303110 Ador Welding-B/D 125.25 -3.4 5076 Cmc Ltd-B/D 1458.55 -30 8155 Hindalco-A/D 113.95 -0.25 530377 Lloydsfin.-T/D 0.48 0.02 14000 S Bk Bikaner-B/D 311.5 -4.7 3179 Marks & Sp./D 481.7354 -13.9 5182039 Aegis Logis-B/D 160 -7.95 7367 Colgate-A/D 1320.05 -0.35 13502 Hous Dev Fin-A/D 844.8 -11.25 73484 Lok.Hous&Con-T/D 13.2 -0.4 17128 Sterling Tool-/D 122.35 3.8 3626 Next/D 6280 -70 379784 Alembic-B/D 14 -0.24 47679 Dai-Tichi Kar-/D 50.7 1.5 2050 I F C I-A/D 23.8 -0.5 457916 Lupin-A/D 913.6 -10.95 24889 Thirumalai-B/D 99.65 -3.15 3437 Pearson/D 1176.625 -20 4975166 Alok Indus-B/D 7.7 -0.24 478955 Dhampur Sugar-/D 30.8 -1.2 15422 Idbi-A/D 61.5 -2.1 301920 Lyka Labs-B/D 11.79 -0.19 3608 Timexgroup-B/D 10.1 -0.09 15703 Prudential/D 1264.0148 -48 6941946 Apollo Tyre-A/D 108.7 -4.95 709863 Dr. Reddy-A/D 2656.05 -11.05 3311 Ifb Ind.Ltd.-B/D 70 -2.1 6581 Mafatlal Ind-B/D 145 -5.45 5417 Tinplate-T/D 48.25 -0.85 11940 Rank Group/D 138.3 -5.3 24056 Asahi I Glass-/D 45.5 -1.3 1136 E I H-B/D 56.95 -0.2 20180 India Cement-B/D 52.25 -1.65 98302 Mah.Seamless-B/D 181.6 -2.7 2764 Ub Engineer-T/D 12.59 -0.66 4330 Rentokil Initi/D 118.5 -1.6 3326736 Ashok Leyland-/D 17.05 -0.6 763734 E.I.D Parry-B/D 138 0.7 7778 India Glycol-B/D 94.5 -2.2 11581 Mangalam Cem-B/D 103 -2.65 8122 Ub Engineer-T/D 12.59 -0.66 4330 Rolls Royce Pl/D 1169.7308 -32 9063205 Bajaj Hold-A/D 935 3.2 2333 Electrosteel-B/D 13.5 -0.68 95445 Indian Hotel-A/D 59.85 0.3 71564 Maral Overs-B/D 19.6 -0.95 7890 Ucal Fuel-T/D 44.05 -1.8 3174 Rsa Insrance G/D 100.4599 1.95 25524387 Ballarpur In-B/D 12.62 -0.21 412539 Emco-B/D 27.95 -1.65 106703 Indo-Bcount-B/D 39.75 -1.15 2872 Mastek-B/D 181.05 -7.6 62300 Ultramarine-B/D 42 -0.85 13915 Sainsbury(J)/D 357.413 3.3 10961855 Bata India-A/D 969.4 -19.95 10871 Escorts-B/D 119.7 -5.5 250897 Indusind-A/D 415 -14.65 123907 Max India L-A/D 194.75 -2.2 2056 Unitech P -A/D 13.4 -0.25 2243459 Schroders/D 2514 -70 237658 Beml Ltd-B/D 206.3 -0.65 76747 Essar Oil-A/D 51.15 -1.5 525736 J.B.Chemical-B/D 126.4 -4.75 20631 Mrpl-A/D 42.25 -1.3 28213 Severn Trent/D 1678.503 -7 1041792 Bh Electronic-/D 981 -19.8 81561 Eveready Indu-/D 37 -0.4 53726 Jagatjit Ind-T/D 42.15 -0.15 2732 Nahar Spg.-B/D 108.5 -4.3 9243 LONDON Smith&Nephew/D 882.5552 -13 2127880 Bharat Bijle-B/D 372.15 -9.85 7915 F D C-B/D 130.1 -4.35 23446 Jagson Phar-B/D 11.65 -0.23 7051 Nath Seeds-B/D 4.8 -0.2 5300 Smiths Group/D 1470.441 -34 580053 Bharatgears-B/D 51.9 2.55 10402 Federal Bank-A/D 81.45 -2.35 140483 Jamnaauto-B/D 59.5 -2.5 1200 Nation Alum -A/D 36.25 -0.45 3061123 3I Group/D 380.1 -10.8 1219998 Standrd Chart /D 1309.25 -35 7898215 Bhartiya Int-B/D 160.7 -5.65 3295 Ferro Alloys-B/D 5.79 -0.4 71083 Jbf Indu-B/D 75.15 -2.05 4238 Navneet Edu-B/D 54.95 -0.9 18209 Assoc.Br.Foods/D 2745.5 -17 1120057 Tate & Lyle/D 765.5 -10.5 705542 Bhel-A/D 165.1 -5.8 289660 Finolex-B/D 150.25 -1.55 18365 Jct Elect P -T/D 0.5 0.01 9680 Nepc India-B/D 3.66 -0.05 91518 B Sky B/D 852 -2.5 4693426 Tesco/D 325.6223 0.25 16337307 Bhuwalka Stl-T/D 10.76 0.51 1058 Gail-A/D 349.95 -0.9 27047 Jct Ltd-B/D 1.92 -0.04 33578 Neuland Lab-B/D 306.4 -5.15 1400 Barclays/D 272.275 -6.65 69800627 Unilever/D 2467 -27 3001964 Bom.Burmah-B/D 102.75 -3.55 9815 Gammon India-B/D 13.77 -0.65 17134 Jik Indust-T/D 0.98 0.04 66709 Nrb Bearings-B/D 38.55 -1.6 13296 Bg Group/D 1255 -40 8338779 United Util Gr/D 700.5 -5 2750459 Bombay Dyeing-/D 61.1 -2.55 166541 Gangotri Tex-T/D 1.12 -0.05 3100 Jktyre&Ind-B/D 156.9 -9.3 87882 O N G C-A/D 283.25 -2.5 304741 Bp/D 486.55 -1.5 33309429 Vodafone Group/D 232.3737571 -1.4 91386243 Canfin Homes-B/D 171 1.15 3564 Garden P -B/D 40.65 -0.8 4190 Jmc Projects-B/D 80.05 -0.45 1300 Ocl India-B/D 162 -3.3 1568 Brit Am Tobacc/D 3073.25 -53 3485405 Whitbread/D 3812.9539 -86 698105 Castrol Ind-A/D 293.5 -4.65 29734 Goodricke-B/D 131 -1.9 3539 Kajaria Cer-B/D 318.25 1.75 4050 Oil Country-B/D 33.45 -0.45 2064 Bt Group/D 380.2 -3.2 14144173 Century Enka-B/D 147.65 -3.3 13389 Goodyear I -B/D 367.15 -8.05 9109 Kakatiya Cem-B/D 69 0.2 1025 Onward Tech-T/D 49.15 -1.05 3400 Centrica/D 321.8 1.1 10252593 Century Text-A/D 306.8 -15.8 161349 Hcl Infosys-B/D 25.35 -1.25 695159 Kalpat Power-B/D 81 -2.25 6234 Orchid Chem-T/D 50 -0.4 38236 Gkn/D 387.6 -8.2 6071439 Chambal Fert-B/D 38.7 -0.95 95483 Him.Fut.Comm-B/D 8.79 -0.37 464454 Kalyani Stel-B/D 53.25 -1.55 21809 Orient Hotel-B/D 15.4 -0.65 10016 Hsbc Holdings/D 645.8 -13.1 36360392 Chola Invest-B/D 258 -1 9180 Himat Seide-B/D 57.7 -1.85 37651 Kanoria Chem-B/D 25.45 -0.5 2272 Oudh Sugar-B/D 17.2 1.65 1177 Imperial Tobac/D 2266.5097 -43 2792284 Chowgule St-T/D 11.6 -0.5 2507 Hind Motors-B/D 7.45 -0.05 52650 Kg Denim-B/D 16 0.1 20078 Radico Khait-B/D 163.9 -0.8 656744 Kingfisher/D 372.8781 -8.5 5180907 TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 23 Jerry Rice’s team rallies late to win Pro Bowl Josh Gordon leads Team Rice with six catches

HONOLULU: Jerry Rice has fresh bragging rights on Deion Sanders nearly a decade after both players retired from the NFL. Dallas running back DeMarco Murray caught a 20-yard touchdown pass with 41 seconds left and Carolina running back Mike Tolbert plunged into the end zone for a 2-point conversion to give Rice a 22-21 win over Sanders in the first schoolyard-style Pro Bowl yesterday. “They called my number the whole way,” Tolbert said on the field after the game. “Philip (Rivers) told them to give it to me. My old teammate, he told them to give it to me.” Baltimore’s Justin Tucker missed a 67-yard field goal on the Golden State Warriors forward Harrison Barnes (40) drives to the hoop game’s final play after missing a against the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA fourth quarter at Oracle 66-yarder earlier in the game. Arena in Oakland. The Warriors defeated the Trail Blazers 103-88. The touchdown and conver- sion gave Rice a comeback after Philadelphia quarterback Nick Foles threw a 12-yard touch- down to Cleveland tight end Jordan Cameron with less than Heat roll to 5 minutes to play to give Sanders a 21-14 lead. The touchdowns by Cameron and Murray were the only scores win over Spurs of the second half in a game that Jerry Rice poses with the Pro Bowl trophy after the 2014 Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu yesterday. had eight turnovers — includ- Team Rice defeated Team Sanders 22-21. ing six interceptions — and nine MIAMI: In a rematch of last beat the Los Angeles Lakers. sacks. “It was definitely sloppy. year’s NBA Finals, guard Anthony scored a Madison There was a lot of turnovers the game to not throw an intercep- wide receiver Josh Gordon made earlier in the week cre- Dwyane Wade returned from Square Garden record 62 against because of the weather,” said tion. He was named offensive MVP, caught touchdowns for Team ated matchups that pitted usual the injured list and the Miami Charlotte on Friday. His encore Houston defensive end J J Watt, finishing with seven completions Rice. Gordon led Team Rice teammates against each other Heat easily defeated the San helped New York (17-27) earn who was a captain on Sanders’ for 89 yards. with six catches for 66 yards, and challenged Rice and Sanders Antonio Spurs in the National their second win in a row imme- team. “There was a lot of rain, so Philadelphia wide receiver while Washington running back to compare the all-stars against Basketball Association games diately following a five-game los- obviously that factored into it.” DeSean Jackson and Carolina Alfred Morris had four catches one another. That led to plenty yesterday. Heat forwards Chris ing streak. The game was played in consist- quarterback Cam Newton also for 69 yards. The Pro Bowlers of trash talk between Rice and Bosh (24 points) and LeBron The Lakers (16-29) received a ent rain, but little wind and warm had touchdowns for Team were split up by the NFL greats Sanders and some bruised egos James (18 points) starred as team-high 24 points from guard temperatures in the high 70s. Foles Sanders. New Orleans tight end in a new draft format meant to among players used to being on Miami improved their home Jodie Meeks, who shot eight- was the only quarterback of six in Jimmy Graham and Cleveland improve the game. The picks top of their sport. AP record to 19-3. for-13 overall and six-for-eight Wade, who had missed four from three-point range. straight games due to knee sore- Tyreke Evans scored 13 of his ness, came off the bench for the team-high 23 points in the fourth first time since 2008 and had quarter and forward Anthony eight points for Miami (32-12). Davis scored 22 points, grabbed San Antonio (33-11) were a career-high 19 rebounds and Seahawks, Broncos bring led by center Tim Duncan, who blocked seven shots to lead the had 23 points. The Golden State New Orleans Pelicans to victory. Warriors held the Portland Trail The Pelicans (18-25), who Blazers to a season-low scoring have won three of their last four total en route to a 103-88 victory. games, iced the game with a 9-4 Super Bowl buzz to Broadway After surrendering 121 or more run. The Magic (12-33), who lost points in three of their previous their eighth consecutive road NEW YORK: Super Bowl 48 riva ls Seattle said. “We have worked hard to earn this showcase of playhouses becoming Super Bowl five games, and then watching game, were led by Arron Afflalo and Denver arrived yesterday in metro- opportunity. It’s a big deal. I know how hard Boulevard, a fan fest area complete with a the Trail Blazers put up 55 in the with a game-high 25 points. politan New York to kick off the last week it is to get here. 60-foot toboggan ride. first half on Sunday, the Warriors Markieff Morris came off the of preparation for the Broadway debut of “I know how much time and sacrifice our Beyond the hoopla and parties that sur- outscored Portland 37-10 over a bench to score 27 points and America’s biggest sporting spectacle. team has made in order to have this oppor- round every Super Bowl week will be two 17-minute stretch bridging the grab 15 rebounds, leading the The Denver Broncos, boasting the NFL’s tunity to play in this game. We were excited teams desperate to shrug off distractions and third and fourth quarters to take Phoenix Suns to a victory over best offense with record scoring and passing to get on that plane. We were excited getting focus on the biggest game of their lives. command and snap a two-game the Cleveland Cavaliers. All Star totals, face the top-rated NFL defence of the off that plane.” Manning won a Super Bowl crown in 2007 losing streak. point guard Kyrie Irving had a Seahawks in next Sunday’s title game at East The Super Bowl has been an off-Broadway with Indianapolis but his Colts lost the 2010 Stephen Curry led the Warriors team-high 24 points and a game- Rutherford, New Jersey. production since its inception, playing in Super Bowl to New Orleans, surrendering an (27-18) with 38 points, while high nine assists for the Cavaliers Seattle and Denver each finished 13-3 this warm-weather cities or domed venues until interception return touchdown while driving Wesley Matthews led Portland (16-28). REUTERS season, sharing the best record in the NFL, Sunday, when one team will reign like the for a potential late tying touchdown. (33-12) with 21. Dirk Nowitzki and both western US clubs flew to the east Lion King and the other will be an NFL ver- Manning set one-season NFL passing scored 28 points to help Dallas coast, where their suburban hotels offer New sion of Les Miserables. records for touchdowns and yardage this year defeat the Detroit Pistons. The NBA Results York skyline views. “It’s extraordinarily fun The Broncos go into the game slight but he will be tested by a Seahawks defense Mavericks (26-20) snapped a to be here,” Seahawks coach Pete Carroll favorites, but the weather could be a leveler that allowed the fewest yards and points in Miami 113 San Antonio 101 two-game losing streak while said. “We just crossed the country to play in — forecasters say it is likely to be the coldest the league and picked off an NFL-best 28 the Pistons (17-27) have lost four NY Knicks 110 LA Lakers 103 the biggest football game you can play in. It’s Super Bowl on record and may even snow. passes. “Their defense is very talented. They straight. New Orleans 100 Orlando 92 pretty darn impressive.” “It would be one thing to experience and are as good as advertised,” Manning said. Detroit guard Brandon Phoenix 99 Cleveland 90 The Seahawks are the first Super Bowl enjoy this experience being at the Super “If you are just a little off your game they Jennings paced the visitors with Brooklyn 85 Boston 79 team in 24 years not to have any players with Bowl, but it would be an awful experience can make you pay.” Richard Sherman, who 26 points. Carmelo Anthony fol- Dallas 116 Detroit 106 Super Bowl experience while the Broncos if we walked away not winning,” Seattle leads Seattle’s hard-hitting defensive back- lowed up his record-breaking Golden State 103 Portland 88 have a handful, but the only one to have won receiver Doug Baldwin said. field known as the “Legion of Boom”, led the scoring performance with 35 a title is star quarterback Peyton Manning. A dozen blocks of Broadway will be closed NFL with eight interceptions but sees the Denver 125 Sacramento 117 points as the New York Knicks “We couldn’t be more excited,” Manning around Times Square, with the famed Broncos as their ultimate challenge. AFP Oilers top Predators, snap six-game losing streak

EDMONTON, CANADA: Devils in the Stadium Series four. Vancouver moved a point Andrew Ladd scored the win- Stuck in one of the worst before 50,105 fans at Yankee ahead of the idle Minnesota Wild. ning goal and goalie Al Montoya droughts in one of the worst Stadium. The snow began steadily Jannik Hansen, Chris Higgins made 33 saves as the Winnipeg seasons in their history, the falling in the second period when and center Zac Dalpe had the Jets came from behind in the Edmonton Oilers enjoyed a the Rangers scored four unan- other Vancouver goals. Antoine third period to score a 3-1 win over rare uplifting night, upsetting swered goals. Vermette scored a hat-trick for Stanley Cup champions Chicago. the Nashville Predators in the The Rangers (28-23-3) snapped the Coyotes. Nick Bjugstad scored The Jets (25-24-5), who trailed National Hockey League game a two-game losing streak and the only goal of the shootout to for most of the first 47 minutes, yesterday. picked up two valuable points give the Florida Panthers a come- took the lead on Ladd’s 150th In just their fifth win since from their Metropolitan Division from-behind win over the Detroit career goal. Blake Wheeler December 10, the Oilers snapped rivals. New York are four points Red Wings. added two scores for Winnipeg a six-game losing streak. ahead of New Jersey (22-20-11). Sean Bergenheim, Jesse to give him 21 on the season. The The Predators (23-22-8) were Mats Zuccarello scored twice to Winchester, Drew Shore and Brad Blackhawks (32-10-12) suffered a model of consistency lately, suf- lead the offensive charge for New Boyes got the goals for Florida their third straight defeat. fering just four regulation losses York, while Patrik Elias added (21-24-7), who rallied from a two- REUTERS in their previous 15 starts (7-4- scored twice for the Devils. goal deficit in the third. 4). The Oilers (15-32-6) had four Defenceman Kevin Bieksa’s Defenceman Brian Campbell wins in their last 21 games. second goal of the game at 2:15 had two assists and goalie Tim NHL Results Edmonton got five different of overtime gave the Vancouver Thomas made 26 saves. For NY Rangers 7 New Jersey 3 goal-scorers and 34 saves from Canucks a win over the Phoenix Detroit (23-18-11), Riley Sheahan Florida 5 Detroit 4 Edmonton Oilers’ left wing Luke Gazdic (20) skates past Nashville Ben Scrivens in the triumph. Coyotes. The Canucks (27-17-9) and Tomas Tatar each had a goal Winnipeg 3 Chicago 1 Amidst snow and sub-freezing posted their third win in four and an assist, and Gustav Nyquist Predators’ defenceman Seth Jones in the National Hockey League Edmonton 5 Nashville 1 match at Rexall Place, yesterday. temperatures, the New York games, while the Coyotes (24- and Daniel Alfredsson also scored. Rangers defeated the New Jersey 19-9) suffered their third loss in Jonas Gustavsson stopped 33 shots. Vancouver 5 Phoenix 4 TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 24 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

US PGA Tour San Diego Open scores Scores from the US PGA Tour San Diego Stallings triumphs by Open at the par-72 course yesterday in La Jolla, California. 279 Scott Stallings (US) 72 67 72 68 280 K.J. Choi (South Korea) 74 70 70 66; Graham DeLaet (Canada) 70 73 69 68; Jason Day (Australia) 66 73 73 68; Pat Perez (US) 67 71 72 70; one shot at Torrey Pines Marc Leishman (Australia) 66 71 72 71 281 Charley Hoffman (US) 69 70 75 67; Ryo Ishikawa (Japan) 72 70 69 70; Overnight pacesetter Woodland falls back with 74 at the Farmers Open Will MacKenzie (US) 72 69 70 70 282 Trevor Immelman (South Africa) 68 SAN DIEGO: American Scott 74 71 69; Noh Seung-Yul (South Stallings birdied six of the Korea) 68 73 72 69; Russell last 11 holes to break clear of Knox (Britain) 71 67 74 70; Justin a tightly bunched leaderboard Thomas (US) 68 73 72 69; Brad and clinch his third PGA Tour Fritsch (Canada) 69 70 72 71; Gary title by one shot at the Farmers Woodland (US) 65 73 70 74 Insurance Open outside San 283 Hideki Matsuyama (Japan) 72 72 70 Diego yesterday. 69; Keegan Bradley (US) 69 72 71 Stallings also held his nerve 71; Morgan Hoffmann (US) 72 66 72 with clutch putts for par at the 73 15th and 17th on the challenging 284 Erik Compton (US) 69 69 74 72; South Course at Torrey Pines Robert Streb (US) 73 69 70 72; before two-putting for birdie at Nicolas Colsaerts (Belgium) 69 67 the par-five last for a four-under- 75 73; Jordan Spieth (US) 71 63 75 par 68 and a nine-under total of 75 279. 285 J.B. Holmes (US) 71 68 75 71; Billy “It’s pretty cool,” Stallings, Horschel (US) 70 67 77 71; Luke 28, told CBS Sports after mixing Guthrie (US) 76 68 71 70; Bubba seven birdies with three bogeys Watson (US) 70 73 73 69; Rory to earn the winner’s cheque for Sabbatini (South Africa) 74 68 69 74 $1.098m. 286 Stewart Cink (US) 64 71 79 72; “It hasn’t quite set in yet but Jamie Lovemark (US) 72 67 76 71; it’s nice to kind of hold up coming Justin Leonard (US) 74 69 73 70; down the stretch. Bae Sang-Moon (South Korea) 67 76 “I drove it very poorly today. I 71 72; Robert Garrigus (US) 71 71 hit some good ones coming down 72 72; Brendan Steele (US) 76 67 the stretch but hit a really bad 74 69; Yang Yong-Eun (South Korea) drive at 17 and managed to make 76 67 74 69; Chad Collins (US) 78 a really good par.” 66 73 69; Brian Stuard (US) 70 73 Stallings, who won his maiden 69 74 PGA Tour title in a playoff for the 287 Brendon Todd (US) 69 73 72 73; 2011 Greenbrier Classic before Martin Laird (Britain) 69 71 74 73; adding a second at the 2012 True Michael Putnam (US) 69 73 75 South Classic, sank par putts 70; Kevin Tway (US) 69 70 73 75; from 14 feet at the 15th and six Charles Howell III (US) 70 72 70 75; feet at the 17th to remain on Tyrone Van Aswegen (South Africa) course for victory. 66 76 76 69 He set up his birdie at the 18th with a four-iron from 225 yards 288 Stuart Appleby (Australia) 74 69 72 but watched as his ball landed 73; Justin Hicks (US) 71 68 75 74; on the front portion of the green Bill Haas (US) 74 70 71 73; Matt before rolling back to the fringe, Jones (Australia) 75 65 77 71 with a pond lurking below. 289 John Merrick (US) 69 74 72 74; American Gary Woodland and Jim Herman (US) 66 75 74 74; Lee Australian Marc Leishman, play- Westwood (Britain) 73 68 75 73; Ian ing in the final group, had the Poulter (Britain) 75 67 71 76; David chance to force a play-off over the Lingmerth (Sweden) 72 70 75 72; Kevin last two holes but Woodland’s title Scott Stallings with the Farmers Insurance Open championship trophy after the third round at Torrey Pines Municipal Golf Course in San Diego Chappell (US) 73 66 73 77; Hunter bid ended with a double-bogey on yesterday. Mahan (US) 72 72 73 72; Andres 17 and Leishman’s when he failed Romero (Argentina) 72 72 67 78 to eagle 18. Leishman’s wedge from 100 The long-hitting Woodland, tough South Course a little more turn in the final group, 17 players of even par to remain at eight at the 10th and 11th, sinking yards ended up four feet from who like Stallings had been seek- receptive to low scoring and yes- were bunched within two shots under overall. tricky putts from 12 and nine the cup and he settled for a ing a third victory on the PGA terday’s final round ended up as at the top of a wildly fluctuating That left him in a four-way tie feet, and also at the 12th, where birdie and a 71 to tie for second Tour, covered his back nine in a birdie slugfest with 10 players leaderboard. A stroke in front for the lead with Perez, Leishman he got up and down from a poor with compatriot Jason Day (68), two-over to close with a 74 and holding at least a share of the after the third round, Woodland and early starter Choi, who lie under overhanging branches South Korean K J Choi (66), finish joint 10th at six under. lead. offset bogeys at the first and sev- moments earlier had birdied the beneath the right side of the Canada’s Graham DeLaet (68) Damp overnight and early By the time overnight paceset- enth with birdies at the second final hole for a 66. green, to remain at eight under. and American Pat Perez (70). morning conditions made the ter Woodland had reached the and ninth for an outward nine Woodland did well to save par REUTERS

Diamond League Doha 2014 holds first general assembly DOHA: The President of the we all work hard.” Others mem- Yousuf Abdulla; Technical & Qatar Athletics Federation bers present were: Mohammed Result Committee, Dr Jabbar and Chairman of the Diamond Jassem Al Kuwari, (the QAF Al Kaabi; Executive officer/ League Doha 2014, Dahlan Al General Secretary) Assistant Secretary, Majid Mohamed; Hamad opened the first General Director for Support & Manager Referee Committee, Khalid Assembly and preparatory of the Marketing Committee; Almajid; IT Committee, Salah Al meeting of the Diamond League Manager of the Spectators Saadi; Sports Affairs, Mohamed Doha 2014. Committee, Mohamed Suleiman; Ahmed Tahir; Assistant Director He said: “The Diamond League Accommodation Committee, for Technical Affairs, A. Hakeem represents 14 meets starting in Younes Ahmed; Transport Al Ameri ; Secretariat & Doha and ending in Bruxelles. Committee, Rashid Al Ansari; Administration, Khalifa Youssuf Diamond League is not organised Website and Accreditation Abdalmalek; Ghania Tinakicht by IAAF. IAAF is a partner of the Committee, Marwan Abu for the Media Committee and The promotion event of 24th Men’s Handball World Championship to be hosted by Qatar next year, started at Diamond League. ” Alasal; Public Relations Richard Matthews for the TV the main venue of Men’s EHF European Handball Championship in the Danish city of Herning. “Each meet is evaluated by Committee, Mai Al Mohammadi; Committee. the Diamond League Committee. Protocol Committee, Abdulla The second Diamond League Last year we were good compared Mirza; Finance Committee, 2014 preparatory meeting is to the 2012 edition. Our ambi- Youssuf Abdulla; Stadium and scheduled for February 25. Qatar 2015 campaign begins tion is to become excellent, if Equipment Committee, Yaqoub THE PENINSULA

HERNING, DENMARK: Denmark (41:32), and large awareness for the forthcoming Masoud wins Double Trap at Heir Apparent Cup The 11th Men’s EHF European majority of the fans participated Men’s World Championship and Handball Championship in in the promotional events of gave away thousands of clap- Denmark was the scenery in the 2015 Qatar Men’s Handball pers in all four Euro 2014 venues Masoud Ali Al Athba (cen- yet another successful activa- World Championship Organising (Herning, Aalborg, Aarhus and tre) winner of the Double tion of the 24th Men’s Handball Committee. The purpose of the Copenhagen) throughout the two- Trap at the Qatar Shooting World Championship, the major activation was to advertise the week high-level competition, ena- and Archery Association’s handball event that will be held upcoming largest global champi- bling the enthusiastic spectators in Doha from January 17 till onship, the first at a senior level to create a festive and cheerful (QSAA) Heir Apparent February 1, 2015. that will be staged in the GCC and atmosphere in every single match. Cup with Rashid Hamad Denmark’s largest indoor hall, in a single city, in Doha. The response of the major- Al Athba (second) and the Jyske Bank Boxen arena in Thousands of T-shirts with the ity of the audience was impres- Hamad Ali Saleh (third) Herning, where Group Stage and Qatar 2015 logo were given away sive and their desire to come to and Tournament Director Main Round matches, as well to all those who simply liked the Qatar and support their favourite Ibrahim Al Mohannadi as all Final Round games were official Qatar 2015 Facebook web- team at the next Men’s Handball (first row, right) at the played, was the host venue of the page, while European fans were World Championship immense Losail Shooting Range Qatar 2015 fan activation, the sec- also introduced to Middle Eastern and since the 11th European yesterday. The QSAA Heir ond in 2014. traditional healthy goods through Championship has come to pass, Apparent Cup will end on The 14,000 capacity arena the offer of approximately 25000 the planning for the next handball February 8. Around 200 was full-packed in each match dates. adventure at a major event, the shooters and archers are day up until the victoriously Additionally, the Qatar 2015 World Championship in 2015, has taking part in the event. for the French final against the promotional team distributed a already begun. former European Champions great number of flyers to raise THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 25 Qatar fetes Dakar Rally heroes Salam International honours Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah, Abu Issa and Sebastian Husseini

DOHA: Salam International Investment Ltd (SIIL) yesterday The Chairman of Salam feted Qatar’s 2014 Dakar Rally International (Salam), Issa heroes Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah, Abdul Salam Abu Issa Mohamed Abu Issa and his (middle), Vice Chairman, team-mate in the Maxxis Super Hussam Abdul Salam Abu B Team Sebastian Husseini at a Issa (third right), Board special gathering. Members, Bassam Abdul The Chief Guest of the event Salam Abu Issa (right), was FIA and FIM Vice President Nasser bin Khalifa Al Attiyah, and Jassim Mohammed who is also the chief of Qatar Abdulghani Al Mansouri (third Motor and Motorcycle Federation left), are seen with Qatar’s (QMMF). Dakar Rally heroes Nasser The gathering at the iconic Saleh Al Attiyah (fourth left), Gate Mall was also attended Sebastian Husseini (second by Issa AbdulSalam Abu Issa, right) and Mohammed Abu Chairman and CEO of SIIL along Issa (fourth right). The Chief with other distinguished guests. Guest of the evening was Qatar’s top rally driver Nasser the President of Qatar Motor Saleh finished 3rd in the car cat- and Motorcycle Federation egory at Dakar Rally last week. (QMMF) Nasser bin Khalifa Following closely, Mohamed Al Attiyah (second left), who Abu Issa, sponsored by SIIL, also is the Vice President of secured 1st place in the Rookie FIA and FIM. PICTURE: SALIM Qualification and earned the MATRAMKOT respect of the sporting world by finishing fourth in his first ever Dakar attempt. Issa’s team-mate Husseini finished in 3rd place in AbdulSalam Abu Issa said: with these achievements we are the media, Abu Issa talked about not to ruin our quads. Anyway we had a mechanical failure, which the quad category. “We are delighted to be honor- celebrating here today. Our rid- the tough competition and the are glad we did well. would put me out of the race com- The Dakar rally began on ing these sportsmen who have ers and drivers can always count challenges they overcame as “On the second day I got lost pletely. Mohammed came along, January 5, 2014 and competi- brought honor to Qatar. We are on the unwavering commitment they rode across incredibly tough for a little over an hour and I had put a rope and pulled me 80km tion ran for 14 consecutive days, delighted that Mohamed has of QMMF. We not only focus on terrain. to race with flat tyres for 150km in the desert and 150km on a traversing a distance of more risen straightaway to capture the the talent we have but we are also “The competition was so fierce on rocks in the mountains, then mountain road. It was 45 degrees than 8,700km in three countries: attention at Dakar, this being his seeking to attract new talent. But and the track was awfully hard, continued on a sandy road for Celsius. He sacrificed his time to Argentina, Bolivia and Chile. very first bid. SIIL’s trust in the above all we want our winners that we witness one car and two 50km until I reached the camp help me and get me back to the The Dakar Rally is renown for Maxxis Super B Team has been to know we value them and we bikes burn up. In conditions like and got my quad fixed. It was camp to repair my quad.” being one of the world’s tough- well rewarded with Sebastian’s join hands with sponsors such as that its easy to come close to quit- tough but we made it,” he added. Husseini said: “I was about est rallies, where riders compete 3rd place win and Mohamed’s SIIL, who boldly come forward to ting. We also faced what is called Husseini lauded Abu Issa’s to quit, because we drove from off-road on craggy terrains and 4th place victory. As always SIIL develop motor sports in Qatar.” the Marathon,” Abu Issa said. sportsmanship by saying: “I par- 5:30am until 11:30pm, with barely through high sand dunes, not to celebrates the achievements of all Nasser Saleh said: “I am very “On those two days of the ticipated last year in this rally, but no food and only water. I really mention the long and elevated Qatari sportsmen and we are glad pleased to be present not just marathon, we’re not allowed to this year I was competing to win. appreciated what Mohammed did distances inside Bolivia, which to be able to honour renown rally to celebrate the good perform- come back to the camp to have The first four to five days were for me. The second week was eas- rise to 4,000m above sea level, ace Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah.” ances but also to encourage the our quads repaired or even get hard mainly because I believe ier because it was a desert race in throwing an extra burden on the Al Attiyah, the QMMF younger generation of sportsmen, fresh clothes. We had to sleep in the organisers wanted the con- Bolivia and Chile and we’re used contestants’ shoulders. President, said: “We strongly who have a whole future ahead a camp away from the mainte- testants who cannot survive hard to such racing conditions in the Commenting at the spe- believe in recognising our cham- of them.” nance team, therefore we had to conditions to fall out quickly.” Middle East.” cial event, SIIL’s Deputy COO pions and we are very pleased In a response to question from be careful while racing in order He added: “On the fifth day, I THE PENINSULA Ivory Coast to get Aspetar Qatar Stars League (QSL) players and help ahead of World Cup officials are seen with DOHA: Aspetar held a signing representatives ceremony with the Ivory Coast of International Football Association in Doha Centre for yesterday. The agreement aims Sports Security to provide medical support on (ICSS) during and off the field for preparation a special and during FIFA World Cup workshop taking place in Brazil this June. hosted in Doha The agreement was signed to highlight by Aspetar Director General, the pitfalls of Dr Khalifa Al Kuwari, and the match-fixing. Ivory Coast Football Association President, Sidi Augustin Diallo. The partnership was finalised during the visit of a senior delega- tion from the Ivory Coast Football Association led Diallo accom- panied by their national coach Sabri Lamouchi and Dr Cyrille Dah, national team physician and Executive Committee Member of QSL and ICSS dig deep the Football Association. Aspetar officials are seen with a football delegation from Ivory Coast in Through this agreement Ivory Doha yesterday. Aspetar will provide medical services and care to support Coast national team is expected Ivory Coast squad headed for 2014 FIFA World Cup. to be accompanied by a team into ills of match-fixing of medical experts during their preparation and participation in the best performance during the national coach and the former the World Cup finals in Brazil. World Cup in Brazil.” French national team player, said: DOHA: The Qatar Stars League year, and this is on the rise as gambled on sports and 70 per- Aspetar will provide medi- The Director General of “I take this opportunity to thank (QSL) in partnership with the the league grows in stature and cent of these bets take place in cal services and care to support Aspetar Dr Khalifa Al Kuwari, the Director General of Aspetar, International Centre for Sports becomes more globally recognised. South East Asia. Countries such the team in its preparation with said: “We feel proud as one of the Dr Khalifa Al Kuwari, and Acting Security (ICSS) yesterday held Chris Eaton, Sport Integrity as Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia comprehensive medical screen- top medical centres of excellence Chief Medical Officer, Dr Hakim a series of presentations about Director, ICSS talked about how are well known for having serious ing and physiological evaluation in the world to offer our expertise Chalabi, who has contributed a lot match-fixing and the conse- football has become the most problems with corruption in their of the players. to international stars, and always in the signing of this agreement. quences of such corrupt activi- corrupt sport in the world but football leagues. Additionally a dedicated team strive through our strategy to Aspetar has very good reputation, ties in the game. quickly added this was due in part Ahmed Alosaymi, Manager of experts from Aspetar will be support athletes at a high level and I think it will help us a lot There were four main speakers to its popularity. Sport Integrity, ICSS who also on hand to offer guidance and and assist them in achieving their in the preparation for the World who all gave detailed and varied “There are by far, more play- spoke at the conference, said he treatment during the world cup full potential.” Cup”. presentations to the assembled ers involved in football than any was happy that such workshops matches. Under this agreement, ‘The The Ivory Coast Delegation group of QSL players. other code in the world. But are in place here in Qatar. He said Diallo said: “We are hon- Elephants’ will be accompanied paid a courtesy visit to Aspire The ICSS aims is to make sure clearly that’s the reason why it’s such proactive meetings needed to oured by the support that we by a team of medical experts from academy. that at least in Qatar all play- the most gambled on sport in the be carried out more regularly and have received from Aspetar, a Aspetar not only during their Ivory Coast has one of the five ers have been fully educated and world and therefore the most cor- on a worldwide basis. world leading hospital with great preparation but also throughout strongest squads in African foot- recognise the seriousness of the rupted sport because criminals “Actually it’s not only Qatar experience in the field of sports their participation in the FIFA ball who have booked their places issue. always target the richest sports” that needs these workshops but medicine. We are proud of this World Cup finals. to the World Cup finals in Brazil. The talks were informative He added: “So football is a vic- all leagues and all sports need agreement and we aim to provide Lamouchi, Ivory Coast’s THE PENINSULA and lengthy with plenty real life tim of its own popularity which these good programs. The play- examples of football players who means it has to protect itself ers need to know the threat and have fallen foul of the law after much more strongly.” danger that is coming from the entering the murky underworld All the players were keen and match fixers,” Alosaymi said. of match-fixing. interested to learn with some The QSL and ICSS have been All the speakers tried to drive also asking questions to the guest working together to protect Qatar beat UAE at Asian event home the message that this a speakers. sport in Qatar and have planned well monitored issue and that the Mujeeb Hamid, a defender for a series of workshops in order MANAMA: The Qatari hand- side, maintained the superiority United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, consequences for players could be Umm Salal said: “This is a good to achieve this aim. With this ball team produced an impres- and defeated their rivals 31-14. Iraq and Oman, while group A disastrous. conference to tell the players in mind, there will be two fur- sive performance in the opening The event is an Asian qualifying includes South Korea, Kingdom Players involved in match-fix- about the rules and match-fixing. ther workshops: one will be for round of 16th Asian Handball tournament for the 2015 World of Saudi Arabia, Iran, Uzbekistan, ing often receive life time bans A lot of things are going on in the referees on February 5 and the Championship to defeat United Men’s Handball Championship to China and hosts Bahrain. not to mention jail time too. football world and it is great to second will be for the QFL and Arab Emirates (UAE) 31-14 on be held in Doha next year. Eleven teams vie for three Up to 190m Euros’ worth of know about the punishments and QFA administrators where they Sunday. Twelve teams are participating tickets to Qatar, where the home legal betting takes place just on consequences about these things.” will be educated and briefed on In Sunday’s opening much, in the Asian tournament, as Qatar team qualifies as hosts of the the Qatari football league every There is now an estimated $1tn match fixing. THE PENINSULA Qatar team was the dominant is pooled in group B beside Japan, World Championship. QNA TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 26 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

Anelka reveals Lazio move Barca and Atletico back after ‘quenelle’ charge

LONDON: French striker Nicolas Anelka thanked Lazio on top after easy victories for their interest yesterday but said he wanted to stay with West Bromwich Albion despite the furore over his ‘quenelle’ Atletico secure 4-2 success at Rayo; Barca ease to win over Malaga goal celebration. There has been specula- MADRID: Barcelona and watching from the VIP tribune. tion Anelka could leave the Atletico Madrid climbed back Spanish League Spain’s record scorer David Premier League side and bow to the top of La Liga as Barca Results Villa set Atletico on their way out of English football completely coasted to a 3-0 victory at home MADRID: Spanish league results on in the eighth minute at Rayo’s after being hit with a Football to Malaga and Atletico won 4-2 Sunday: Vallecas stadium in the Madrid Association charge after making at Rayo Vallecano on Sunday Almeria 1 (Zongo 49) Getafe 0 suburbs when he struck a first- a gesture condemned in France night. time shot high into the net from as anti-Semitic. Osasuna 1 (Armenteros 10) Athletic Bilbao Real Madrid had claimed Diego Costa’s neat layoff. Anelka has requested a formal 5 (Susaeta 3, Aduriz 16, 62, Ibai Gomez the overnight lead thanks to 84, Kike Sola 88) Atletico goalkeeper Thibaut hearing to contest the charge, Saturday’s 2-0 home success Courtois saved a 12th-minute which could see him banned for Rayo Vallecano 2 (Viera 39, Larrivey 76) against Granada before Barca and Atletico Madrid 4 (Villa 8, Turan 30, 44, Jonathan Viera penalty before a minimum of five matches. Atletico restored their one-point Saul 74-og) Arda, known in Spain as the The 34-year-old revealed the advantage with comfortable wins Barcelona 3 (Pique 40, Pedro 55, Sanchez Turkish magician, made it 2-0 Italian club’s interest but, in a against outclassed opponents. 61) Malaga 0 on the half hour after more good message on his Twitter account, The joint leaders have 54 Played on Saturday work from Costa. said he’d done nothing wrong and points from 21 matches, with The Brazil-born forward fed wanted to remain in England. Real Madrid 2 (Ronaldo 57, Benzema 74) Barca ahead on goal difference. Granada 0 Jose Sosa and despite having a “Thanks to Lazio and all the Real are lurking ominously on clear shooting opportunity he others clubs who wanted to sign Valladolid 1 (Rueda 40) Villarreal 0 53 and Athletic Bilbao trail on unselfishly squared for Arda to me these last few days,” Anelka Valencia 2 (Alcacer 7, Jonas 32) Espanyol 42 in fourth after they thrashed finish into an empty net. said. 2 (Cordoba 3, Sergio Garcia 45-pen) Osasuna 5-1 on Sunday. Rayo, who play some attractive “See you this summer if I Sevilla 2 (Coke 25, Rakitic 68) Levante 3 The Barca fans paid tribute to football but have a disastrously decide to continue, but the ques- (Barral 30-pen, Vyntra 71, Simao 76) veteran midfielder Xavi before leaky defence, pulled a goal back tion is why should I leave my club On Friday kickoff at the Nou Camp after he in the 40th minute when Viera and England? reached the milestone of 700 offi- Celta Vigo 4 (Orellana 22, 39, Charles 31, finished off a sweeping move and “I’m happy here and I did noth- Nolito 73) Real Betis 2 (Ruben Castro 17, 79) cial games for the Spanish cham- Arda scored his second moments ing wrong, so now it’s time to stay pions earlier this month. Caballero. Pique headed against a before the break. focused on my football with my The Spain playmaker turned in post from another corner in the The stocky and heavily-bearded club and I will try my best on the a typically impeccable perform- 54th minute and moments later midfielder nipped in at the back pitch like I always do.” ance controlling play in the centre Messi freed Pedro on the left of post and volleyed a deflected Gabi AFP and Malaga were forced to rely the area and he curled a shot into free kick in from a tight angle. on the counter attack to have any the corner. Costa, the second-highest hope of troubling the hosts. Pedro turned provider just scorer in La Liga this sea- Arsenal sign Barca’s Chile forward Alexis after the hour when he picked son behind Cristiano Ronaldo, Sanchez clipped the post in the up another Messi pass and sent appeared to have netted his ‘record’ kit deal fifth minute and Lionel Messi a low centre to the far post where 20th of the campaign in the 75th sent a dinked effort narrowly Alexis tapped home. minute but it was ruled an own with Puma wide in the 22nd before Gerard An easy win was just the tonic goal and attributed to Rayo mid- Pique fired in the opener five min- Barca needed after a difficult fielder Saul Niguez. utes before halftime. week when president Sandro Joaquin Larrivay nodded a sec- LONDON: Arsenal announced The Spain centre back, who Rosell stepped down amid a probe ond for Rayo a minute later and yesterday the most lucrative kit scored the equaliser in last into alleged irregularities in the Atletico had to withstand late deal in their history, in a tie-up weekend’s 1-1 draw at Levante, signing of Brazil forward Neymar pressure but Courtois capped FC Barcelona’s Leo Messi (left) in action against Malaga’s Sergio with Puma worth more than a controlled the ball in the area last year. another fine performance with a Sanchez during the Spanish Liga Primera Division match at Camp reported £30m ($49.5m) a year from a Xavi corner and drilled Rosell’s deputy Josep Bartomeu couple of impressive saves. Nou Stadium in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday night. to the Premier League leaders. it past Malaga goalkeeper Willy has taken charge and was REUTERS The agreement, which will see the German sports manufacturer take over from Nike as Arsenal’s official kit suppliers from July 2014, was described in a joint Qatar Stars League: Seven matches today statement as “the biggest deal in Puma and Arsenal’s history”. DOHA:The Qatar Stars League our sponsors understand and QSL Standings The Gunners are understood (QSL) has scheduled a round of QSL Fixtures co-operate.” to receive around £30m ($49m, matches for today, as a result of Lekhiwya and Eljaish are both P W D L G GA P 36m euro) a year from main spon- a congested fixture list later in 04:30 Al Arabi vs Al Ahli at Grand Hamad involved in the AFC Champions sors Emirates Airlines, and while the season. Stadium League play-offs in February. Lekhwiya 17 10 4 3 36 19 34 no financial details were given, Due to the involvement of QSL 04:30 Muaither vs Al Wakra at Thani bin Should they succeed, they would reports have indicated the new Al Sadd 16 7 6 3 31 18 27 clubs in the AFC Champions Jassim Stadium join Al Rayyan and Al Sadd in the deal will be for a similar amount League and GCC competitions 04:30 Lekhwiya vs Al Khor at Abdullah group stages of the competition. Eljaish 17 8 3 6 21 18 27 when Puma replace US-based throughout February, March and bin Khalifa Stadium QSL also have to consider the rivals Nike, who have been the April the league management has 07:00 Eljaish vs Al Kharaitiyat Abdullah impact of Al Kharaitiyat and Al Al Ahli 16 7 4 5 29 25 25 London club’s kit provider since decided to play all seven Week 17 bin Khalifa Stadium Khor’s involvement in the GCC Al Arabi 16 7 3 6 25 22 24 1994. matches in one day. 07:00 Al SaddUmm Salal Jassim bin Cup – which again reduces alter- “We are excited to be partner- While this is an unusual step Hamad Stadium native match-days throughout the Al Sailiya 16 6 5 5 29 27 23 ing with Puma, a company whose in the football calendar, the QSL season. football heritage and record of 07:00 Al Gharafavs Qatar SC at Thani bin Qatar SC 16 6 5 5 19 22 23 Executive Committee has decided Jassim Stadium Due to the fact Match Day 1 innovation have a strong affinity this is the best option to accom- of the AFC Champions League Al Gharafa 16 5 6 5 28 26 21 with our own,” said Arsenal chief 07:00 Al Rayyan vs Al Sailiya at Ahmed modate all teams who are involved falls on February 25th-26th and executive Ivan Gazidis. bin Ali Stadium in other competitions. the International match between Al Kharaitiyat 16 5 5 6 23 22 20 “This represents another “This is an unusual step for the Qatar v Bahrain falls on March Al Khor 16 3 11 2 15 15 20 important step forward in QSL especially when we already no alternative than to play these 5th, there were be on QSL Arsenal’s progression on and off Al Ahli players celebrate after have fixtures scheduled in the games this week. matches February or March 1st. Al Wakra 16 4 6 6 22 25 18 the pitch.” usual weekend slot,” said Hani “While we are happy our clubs There will also be no QSL Puma chief executive Bjorn scoring a goal against Muaither Umm Salal 16 4 5 7 20 25 17 SC during their Qatar Stars Ballan, Deputy CEO of the QSL. are involved in other competi- matches on March 14 and 15 as Gulden added: “Arsenal have been League (QSL) match at Al Arabi “After careful consideration of tions, this throws up challenges a result of the AFC Champions Al Rayyan 16 3 5 8 17 27 14 a key strategic target for Puma Stadium on January 24. the fixture calendar for the rest in respect of scheduling matches. League Match Days Two and for a number of years now.” of the season, we felt there was We hope the fans, media and Three. THE PENINSULA Muaither 16 3 2 11 16 40 11 AFP Qatar Volleyball Association League: Al Rayyan lead at the end of first leg

A Qatar SC player spikes against Al Gharafa during their Qatar Volleyball Association League match at Al Arabi Indoor Stadium in Doha on Sunday. Qatar SC won 3-0 (23-25, 22-25, 23-25). RIGHT: Action from the Al Sadd and Al khor match. Al Khor won 3-2 (25-21, 25-17, 15-25, 19-25 and 11-15). At the end of the first leg of the league, Al Rayyan lead the table in the 11-team league with an all-win record, followed by Police. Al Arabi are in the third place and El Jaish are fourth. The second phase of the league resumes today with Al Ahli taking on Al Khor at 5:30pm and Al Arabi facing Al Wakra at 7.00pm. PICTURES BY: KAMMUTTY VP TUESDAY 28 JANUARY 2014 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 27 Major shake-up on men’s Tour World No.3 Stanislas Wawrinka gate-crashes the established order of men’s tennis

LONDON: An Australian past decade by Federer, Nadal, Open that began in a heatwave Djokovic and more recently and contained seismic shocks Murray. aplenty ended with Stanislas Del Potro’s second-round exit Stanislas Wawrinka defeating Rafa Nadal in Melbourne can be seen as a blip Wawrinka of to further undermine the supe- and with his injury woes behind Switzerland riority of the so-called big four him he will be dangerous at all poses with the in men’s tennis. the remaining Grand Slams later 2014 Australian In reaching the final after this year. Open winner’s missing last year’s tournament Melbourne semi-finalist Tomas trophy on the Nadal has cemented his world No. Berdych, at number seven, will bank of the 1 ranking and will be hard to shift also take heart from Wawrinka’s Yarra river in from the summit but below him breakthrough after regularly Melbourne the landscape is changing. reaching the business end of Novak Djokovic, whose bid for Grand Slam tournaments, only yesterday, a fourth consecutive Australian to fall short against the big guns. following his Open title was thwarted by the Spain’s David Ferrer yesterday victory over inspired Wawrinka, remains No. 2 slipped from three to five in rank- Rafael Nadal but both Andy Murray and Roger ing list and while he will continue of Spain in the Federer are falling, to numbers to hustle and bustle, his career men’s singles six and eight respectively. looks unlikely to include a major final on Sunday. There are mitigating factors in title. Wawrinka Murray’s case because he missed Although the quartet of Nadal, insisted he is a the final third of last year because Djokovic, Murray and Federer deserving winner of a back surgery which, as proved will, for now, continue to be the of the Australian in his loss to Federer, will require first names brought up when talk- Open after time before he regains his former ing of the main challengers at the upsetting injury- strength and power. big tournaments, the gap between hit world number Federer, who played beauti- them and the rest is shrinking. one Nadal to fully to reach the semis, was out- Wawrinka, still at the peak of gatecrash the played by Nadal and the suspicion his powers at 28, is the spear- established order remains that while still majestic heading the assault with Del at his best, his chances of add- Potro and Berdych in close sup- of men’s tennis. ing to his record haul of 17 Grand port but others are lurking in the Slam titles are receding. undergrowth. Wawrinka’s wonderful fort- Bulgaria’s 22-year-old Grigor night in Melbourne has propelled Dimitrov will enter the world’s him to third in the rankings, mak- top 20 for the first time and Australia with an extra spring in went: “oh, so it can be done!” the going out Agnieszka Radwanska. Australia, will lead the challenge ing him Switzerland’s number one his run to the quarter-finals in their step, believing that they will Croatian said on Twitter follow- China’s Li Na is not exactly a from the next generation. after a career spent in Federer’s Australia where he hade Nadal not necessarily have to wait for ing Wawrinka’s victory. new kid on the block but in win- The Australian Open, far from shadow. in all sorts of trouble could prove the current golden generation to The women’s game has also ning her second Grand Slam title being a predictable romp for the At number four is burly a pivotal moment in his career. step aside before they can make been given a shake-up this past could well have an eye on the No.1 favourites, has breathed new life Argentine Juan Martin del Potro, Japan’s Kei Nishikori is grow- their mark. fortnight with Serena Williams ranking this year, should Williams into the sport and the months who before Wawrinka’s defeat ing in stature and Canadian Milos Former world number three surprisingly beaten by a reju- fall below the incredible standards ahead promise to be engrossing of Nadal, was the last player Raonic has the serve and fore- Ivan Ljubicic summed up the venated Ana Ivanovic, Maria she set in 2013. as the heavyweights try to stand to muscle into the Grand Slam hand to do damage. mood. Sharapova losing to Dominika Canada’s Eugenie Bouchard, their ground under fire from mul- winners’ club dominated for the They will all move on from “I wonder how many players Cibulkova and Victoria Azarenka who reached the semi-finals in tiple directions. REUTERS Factbox on Wawrinka MELBOURNE: Factbox More Slams and Hall of on Switzerland’s Stanislas Wawrinka after he beat Rafa Nadal 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 to win the Australian Open yesterday: Born: March 28 1985 in Fame await Li Na: Evert Lausanne, Switzerland World ranking: 3 SINGAPORE: Li Na is des- her in the Hall of Fame. “It’s not way past first-time finalist Switzerland’s Career titles: 6 tined for more Grand Slams only about winning Grand Slams Cibulkova in Saturday’s show- Stanislas Nickname: “Stanimal” and a place in the Hall of Fame its about the influence that you piece to help erase the memo- Coach: Magnus Norman Wawrinka after the Australian Open win have in tennis. ries of two previous failures in % Began playing at age eight and (left) holds cemented her position as the “Look at her, as Stacey said she Melbourne Park finals. has spent his entire career in the winner’s most influential female player is the most influential women’s The Wuhan native, who moved the shadow of compatriot Roger trophy of the last decade, said former tennis player in the last 10 years, up one place to world number Federer. alongside great Chris Evert. with what she has done for global three in the rankings courtesy of % Left school at 15 to play ten- Spain’s Rafael Li’s final victory over Slovak tennis so absolutely 100 percent. her victory, saved match points nis fulltime and won the junior Nadal after Dominika Cibulkova on Saturday “Something would be wrong if in her third round victory in French Open title in 2003 and two Challenger level titles in the Australian gave her a second major following she didn’t get into the tennis hall Australia over Lucie Safarova of San Bendetto and Geneva. Was Open final in her 2011 French Open title, a tri- of fame.” the Czech Republic before finding included in Switzerland’s Davis Melbourne on umph that made her Asia’s first Her impressive play and comi- her feet. Cup squad as an 18-year-old, Sunday. singles Grand Slam champion. cal post match interviews have Li, the winner of nine WTA beginning his long association Evert, the winner of 18 Grand made her a crowd favourite in titles, then dropped only 18 games with Federer. Slam titles, joined WTA Tour Australia and around the world, in her four subsequent matches to % Captured his first ATP tour chief Stacey Allaster in hailing with Allaster brimming as Asia, leave Evert predicting the Chinese level title in 2006 at Umag when the Chinese’s achievements at a and China in particular, embraces could add a third or fourth Grand Novak Djokovic retired with breathing difficulties in the final. timely promotional event yester- the sport. Slam before the year is out. % Broke into the world top 10 day for the end of year champion- Singapore and Beijing now “This year she is still up for for first time in 2008 by reach- ships in Singapore and women’s house WTA offices while 17 WTA Grand Slams, along with Serena ing two ATP Tour finals and tennis in Asia. events will be played in Asian (Williams), Maria (Sharapova), winning the gold medal in dou- “Yeah, I’d vote for her,” Evert Pacific in 2014. Allaster said Li’s Victoria (Azarenka). bles with Federer at the Beijing told reporters when asked if Li latest boost had been timely. “She is right up there with Olympics. was worthy of a place alongside The 31-year-old clubbed her them too.” REUTERS % Beat Federer for the first time in his career, a third round vic- tory at Monte Carlo in 2009. % Makes it into final eight at Swiss press hail Wawrinka’s a Grand Slam for first time in Nadal should recover 2010 when he made the quar- ‘impossible exploit’ ter-finals at the US Open, beat- ing Andy Murray in the fourth LAUSANNE: The Swiss press yesterday hailed the “impossible round. exploit” of newly-crowned Australian Open champion Stanislas % Appears to have eliminated Wawrinka, who has finally come out of the shadows of more illus- the inconsistency in 2013, start- quickly, says coach trious compatriot Roger Federer. ing with an epic five-set mara- The Swiss, who also upset three-time defending champion Novak thon against twice defending MADRID: Rafa Nadal should “He went into the match after Russian star who will start the Djokovic in the quarter-finals, capped a magnificent fortnight in champion Djokovic at Melbourne Park in fourth round, eventually recover from the back problem feeling twinges during the week WTA indoor tournament this Melbourne with his 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 win over Rafael Nadal for his losing 12-10 in the fifth. that wrecked his Australian but very minor ones that nor- week as top seed at the city’s first major title. % Uses that to propel him to Open final after a few days rest, mally do not affect you at all. Stade Coubertin, just a short walk “Giant,” headlined Le Matin, including a signed poster of the player most consistent year on ATP his uncle and coach Toni told “In the second game of the sec- from Roland Garros where she inside a 14-page spread dedicated to the “triumph” of the native of Tour, with 14 quarter-final or Spanish radio yesterday. ond set he felt a pinch. When I clinched the French Open in 2012, Saint-Barthelemy, a village which was renamed “Stan-Barthelemy” better finishes. Captures fourth The ailing world number one asked him after treatment what completing a career Grand Slam. by its mayor on Sunday. career title at Oeiras, beating lost to Swiss Stanislas Wawrinka was happening he said ‘it’s over’.” Sharapova’s Melbourne cam- “Stantastic”, read the “Neue Zuericher Zeitung”. world number four David Ferrer. in Sunday’s final, preventing the paign was just her second event “Anyone who would have said 13 months ago that Wawrinka would % Reaches his first quarter-final Spaniard drawing level on 14 Sharapova eyes since a shoulder injury ended her shortly win a Grand Slam title, would probably have been classified at Roland Garros and then goes Grand Slam singles titles with 2013 season in August, a setback as insane,” the Zurich daily said. one better at US Open with semi-final loss to Djokovic, again American Pete Sampras. Paris tournament which also ruled her out of the If Wawrinka had until recently lived in the shadow of 17-time in five sets. Nadal needed lengthy treat- US Open. Grand Slam winner Federer his marketing value has now surely % Qualifies for his first ATP ment at the start of the second after Open heat “I think it’s a success in terms exploded, estimated the newspaper. World Tour Finals appearance set, hit back to win the third but of that I’m back and that I’m “Wawrinka represents like few athletes popular values such as in London and reached the semi- Wawrinka eventually captured PARIS: Maria Sharapova healthy,” she said after her reliability, work, and modesty,” it said. finals before he lost to Djokovic. his debut Grand Slam with a 6-3, swaps sweltering Melbourne for Australian Open exit. “That’s “The triumph of work, courage and humility,” added the Tages % Begins 2014 with his fifth ATP 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 success. wet and chilly Paris yesterday quite important otherwise I Anzeiger, the other major German-speaking newspaper, of the player Tour title at Chennai. His uncle told Cadena Ser’s hoping her love affair with the wouldn’t give myself a chance who had ironically dubbed himself “the Swiss player who loses”. % Beats defending champion El Larguero show his nephew French capital will help bury to play. So on that note, I have Wawrinka, 28, never saw himself “as being top dog” over Federer Djokovic in quarter-finals of planned to return to his native her Australian Open nightmare. to look at the positives and see but just in the running “for the Oscar of best supporting actor,” said 2014 Australian Open. Mallorca from Melbourne before The world number three was where I have come from in four French-speaking daily 24 Heures. Wawrinka was now being touted % Goes on to beat Rafa Nadal in heading to Argentina where a shock fourth-round loser at or five months. I haven’t played a as a more reliable role model for young Swiss people, who could now his first Grand Slam final to win he is due to take part in a clay the season-opening Grand Slam, lot of tennis in those six months.” shake off his annoying nicknames -- “Stan the Man,” or “Stanimal”. maiden major title. event in Buenos Aires starting on going down to eventual finalist Sharapova gets a first-round Wawrinka was also praised for being “loyal,” as he plans to follow % First man to defeat the number one and number two February 10. Dominika Cibulkova, her hopes bye in Paris before a match-up his Grand Slam success by playing in the Davis Cup against Serbia seeds at a Grand Slam since “The doctor said it’s a tighten- hamstrung by a hip injury. with Slovak veteran Daniela at Novi Sad on Friday, while Federer has always been reluctant to Spain’s Sergi Bruguera at 1993 ing of the muscles and a few days But Paris only brings back Hantuchova or Marina Erakovic play first rounds. REUTERS French Open. rest should be enough,” said Toni. warm recent memories for the of New Zealand. AGENCIES Tuesday 28 January 2014 27 Rabial I 1435 Volume 18 Number 5958 Sport Price: QR2

Stallings Barca and triumphs at Atletico back Torrey Pines on top

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www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Sri Lanka seamers rock Bangladesh Eranga and Lakmal share seven wickets

DHAKA: Seamers Shaminda me today.” The tourists justified “We should have scored 375 Eranga and Suranga Lakmal skipper Angelo Mathews’ deci- runs on this pitch,” he said. shared seven Bangladesh wick- sion to bowl first by grabbing four “They bowled well but we also ets as Sri Lanka dominated the wickets with just 59 runs on the made mistakes. We are already opening day of the first Test in board. far behind in this Test now.” Dhaka yesterday. Shakib and Rahim joined Debutant opening batsman Eranga finished with 4-49 and hands at that stage to stitch Shamsur Rahman smashed 33 Lakmal claimed 3-66 to help bowl together a fifth-wicket stand of the first 59 runs with the help out Bangladesh for 232 after the of 86, before the hosts suffered of seven boundaries, but failed to tourists won the toss and chose two quick blows to slip to 150-6 build on the fluent start in the to field at the Sher-e-Bangla midway through the afternoon morning session. stadium. session. Bangladesh lost three wickets Skipper Mushfiqur Rahim (61) Shakib fell leg-before to vet- in successive overs to slide from Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan (left) plays a shot as Sri Lanka’s wicketkeeper Dinesh Chandimal watches and Shakib Al Hasan (55) were eran left-arm spinner Rangana 35-0 to 40-3 as Eranga removed during the first day of their first test cricket match of the series in Dhaka, yesterday. the only batsmen to resist the Herath, before Eranga had new Tamim Iqbal and Rahman, and accurate Sri Lankan attack on batsman Nasir Hossain caught Mathews trapped Marshall Ayub an even-paced pitch. behind in the next over to leg-before. family reasons. A Sri Lanka Scoreboard Sri Lanka made 60 for no loss claim his third wicket in the Lakmal dismissed Mominul Cricket statement later in the in reply by stumps, with Dimuth innings. Haque before Shakib and day announced the death of his Bangladesh (I innings): Fall of wickets: 1-35, 2-40, 3-40, 4-59, Karunaratne unbeaten on 28 and Rahim then added 53 for the Rahim settled in to retrieve the father. Tamim Iqbal c Lakmal b Eranga ...... 6 5-145, 6-150, 7-203, 8-219, 9-222. Kaushal Silva on 30. seventh wicket with all-rounder situation. Dinesh Chandimal donned the Shamsur Rahman c Vithanage b Eranga ..... 33 Bowling: Lakmal 18.1-3-66-3 (4nb), They are now 172 runs behind Sohag Gazi before he fell leg- Bangladesh left out Imrul gloves in Prasanna’s absence. Marshall Ayub lbw Mathews ...... 1 Eranga 17.4-2-49-4 (1nb), Mathews 6-3- with all 10 wickets in hand. before to Lakmal soon after the Kayes, Mohammad Mahmudullah The tourists omitted unortho- Mominul Haque c Vithanage b Lakmal ...... 8 18-1, D Perera 11-2-45-0, Herath 11-1- Eranga, who had taken 33 tea break. and Abdur Razzak from their ini- dox spinner Ajantha Mendis and Shakib Al Hasan lbw b Herath ...... 55 50-2. wickets in 10 previous Tests, Gazi boosted the total with 42 tial squad, and went in with three preferred all-rounder Dilruwan Mushfiqur Rahim lbw b Lakmal ...... 61 Sri Lanka (I innings): said the plan to bounce out off 56 balls that contained six quick bowlers in Rubel Hossain, Perera in the first of two Test Nasir Hossain c Chandimal b Eranga ...... 4 D Karunaratne (batting) ...... 28 Bangladesh worked well. boundaries and a six, but found Robiul Islam and Al-Amin matches. Sohag Gazi c Eranga b Lakmal ...... 42 K Silva (batting) ...... 30 “There was an obvious plan little support at the other end. Hossain. Sri Lanka will also play three Robiul Islam c Perera b Eranga ...... 5 Extras (W-1, NB-1) ...... 2 to use the short ball, otherwise Shakib said he was disap- Sri Lanka took the field one-day internationals and two Rubel Hossain b Herath ...... 2 Total (for no loss) ...... 60 it would have been difficult to pointed at his team’s low score without Test wicket-keeper Twenty20 games during the tour Al-Amin Hossain (not out) ...... 6 Bowling: Robiul 4-1-12-0 (w1), Al-Amin 5-1- take wickets on this pitch,” he since it was a good wicket to bat Prasanna Jayawardene, who that ends on February 22. Extras (LB-4 NB-5) ...... 9 18-0, Rubel 4-0-20-0 (nb1), Gazi 5-2-8-0, Total (all out) ...... 232 said. “I am glad it went well for on. flew home early on Friday for AFP Shakib 1-0-2-0. India confident of squaring New Zealand series

WELLINGTON: India are New Zealand were denied Coming into the series, India But Ashwin (65 off 46 balls) New Zealand have been plagued were out of the game they flexed confident they can win their two a series-clinching victory on held the number one ranking and and Jadeja (66 not out off 45) put in recent years by an inability to their muscle a little bit and got remaining one-day internation- Saturday when a late flourish they were strongly favoured to on 85 for the seventh wicket in a close out series when they have themselves back into it. And als in New Zealand to salvage by Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja beat the home side. partnership that revived India’s had the upper hand early on, but just when we thought we had it a draw from a series they were produced a cliffhanger finish, Instead, they extended a los- hopes. felt the tide had turned when again, obviously they came back,” expected to dominate. with India scoring 17 off the last ing streak that began with back- “We’ve just not been at the best they beat the West Indies in two McCullum said. Although a series win is out over. to-back defeats in South Africa, of our game. That’s the best point Twenty20 matches before India’s “We had our chances, there is of reach for India, who trail 2-0, “We were quite disappointed losing their first game in New we can take forward, in terms of arrival. no doubting that. Definitely had spinner Ravi Ashwin said the that we didn’t shut the game Zealand by 24 runs and the sec- saying, we’ve not really played our However, the nagging doubts our chances. A few catches and a dramatic tie in the third match down. We would have loved to win ond by 15. best game yet,” Ashwin said. returned in Auckland when cap- few run-out opportunities and a in Auckland showed the tide is the series, but we kept it open and In Auckland, India again “We’ve been fighting hard to tain Brendon McCullum admitted few things.” turning for the tourists, who we can tie it down now,” Ashwin looked down and out when the end and while things haven’t it was “potentially” one that got The final match in the series have slipped to number two in said yesterday on the eve of the they were 184-6 chasing New gone our way we just hope for the away. is in Wellington on Friday, to be the rankings. fourth game in Hamilton. Zealand’s 314. turnaround.” “When they looked as if they followed by two Tests. AFP Mata could make United debut against Cardiff LONDON: Record sign- transfer off. “I’m thrilled,” Moyes well and Tottenham are close English Premier ing Juan Mata could feature told reporters. “I got wind of it a behind us too. But we are play- for Manchester United when month or two ago that it could be ing well and everyone is really League Fixtures the champions try to get their a possibility and never believed we focused. (All times in GMT) floundering Premier League could pull it off. Manchester “Our target is to be up there Today campaign back on track against “When we got the sniff there United manager and we want those three points. Cardiff City at Old Trafford was a chance Juan could be avail- David Moyes At home we have a very good Manchester United vs Cardiff City (1945) today (1945 GMT). able we went after it right away.” (left) poses record and we want to keep that Norwich City vs Newcastle United (1945) The 25-year-old Spain play- Mata has not played since New with new sign- going.” Southampton vs Arsenal (1945) maker held his first news con- Year’s Day, where he showed his ing Spanish Fifth-placed Tottenham host Swansea City vs Fulham (1945) ference on Monday as a United displeasure at being substituted midfielder Juan rampant Manchester City tomor- Crystal Palace vs Hull City (2000) player since his £37.1m ($61.22m) early in Chelsea’s 3-0 win at Mata at the club row hoping to keep their six- Liverpool vs Everton (2000) move from Chelsea at the week- Southampton. training ground match unbeaten run under new end and it was announced he The match will see former in Manchester, manager Tim Sherwood intact. January 29 would wear the number eight United favourite Ole Gunnar north west The last meeting between the Aston Villa vs West Bromwich Albion (1945) shirt. Solskjaer return to Old Trafford England, pair in November saw City, now Chelsea vs West Ham United (1945) Mata’s signing has raised hopes as manager of Cardiff, having yesterday. one point off the lead in second Sunderland vs Stoke City (1945) of a turnaround at United who are replaced Malky Mackay earlier place, score six goals without Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester City down in seventh spot, 14 points this month. reply and signalled the beginning (1945) behind leaders Arsenal and six The Norwegian said he would of the end for Andre Villas-Boas off the Champions League places. try to keep emotion out of the who was sacked less than a month February 1 Manager David Moyes said occasion despite having claimed later. Spurs are a more cohesive Newcastle United vs Sunderland (1245) Mata had trained with his new a piece of club history when he that will be a problem. I’m more home of their local rivals since unit but will need to shackle City’s West Ham United vs Swansea City (1245) team mates and that he would scored the winning goal in the professional than emotional.” 1999 and Liverpool defender Kolo free-scoring strikers to have any Cardiff City vs Norwich City (1500) decide today whether to pick 1999 Champions League final Everton, boosted by Leighton Toure said they needed to keep hope of success. Everton vs Aston Villa (1500) the midfielder against bottom against Bayern Munich. Baines signing a new four- that record intact to give them- Arsenal could be without Fulham vs Southampton (1500) club Cardiff. Moyes added that “It’s hard to say if I’ll stay year deal, will look to overtake selves breathing space. midfielder Jack Wilshere for injured trio Wayne Rooney, Robin detached,” he told The Sun Merseyside rivals Liverpool in the “We all know it’s a massive Tuesday’s visit to Southampton Hull City vs Tottenham Hotspur (1500) van Persie and Marouane Fellaini newspaper. race for a Champions League spot game,” said Toure. “It will be who will be minus Dejan Lovren Stoke City vs Manchester United (1500) were back in training, raising the “You never know, sometimes when they clash at Anfield today. really intense but we really need and Gaston Ramirez with ankle February 2 prospect of a four-way boost for it just catches you doesn’t it, like Roberto Martinez’s Everton to win. ligament injuries. West Bromwich Albion v Liverpool (1330) the club. when you do your wedding speech are sixth on 42 points, one point “The top four is where we want Dani Osvaldo, Southampton’s Arsenal v Crystal Palace (1600) The Scot was delighted to and stuff. and two league positions behind to be. We’re there now but we record signing, is serving a two- have bought Mata, saying he had “But I’m not too much of an Liverpool. will only stay there if we win this week suspension after an incident February 3 doubts the club could pull the emotional guy so I don’t think Everton have not won at the game. “Everton are doing very in training. AFP Manchester City vs Chelsea (2000)